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ABSTRACT: This experiment investigated the effects of feeding low and high supplies of vitamin A (VA) during the transition period on plasma metabolites, prevalence of ketosis, and early milk production. In a randomized complete block design, 42 prefresh Holstein cows and 21 heifers were blocked by parity and calving date and assigned to 1 of 3 dietary treatments (n = 21 per treatment unless noted): CON, a transition diet with supplemental VA (75,000 IU/d) to meet the requirement; LVA, a transition diet with no supplemental VA; or HVA, a transition diet receiving supplemental VA (187,500 IU/d) 2.5 times greater than the requirement. Experimental periods were prepartum (−14 d prepartum), postpartum (1 to 30 d in milk), and carryover period (31 to 58 d in milk; common lactating diet with adequate VA was fed). Differences in dry matter intake in the pre- and postpartum periods and milk yield were not detected among treatment. Milk fat, protein, and lactose yields were similar among treatments and not affected by VA. Somatic cell count increased linearly with increasing VA. Body weight and body condition score decreased postpartum, but no VA effect was observed. Plasma retinol concentrations (n = 10 per treatment) decreased at d 2 postpartum and increased as lactation progressed, but the concentrations were unaffected by treatment. Plasma β-carotene (n = 10 per treatment) had a treatment by time interaction and its concentration decreased after parturition and remained low for 2 wk. Plasma fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate did not differ among treatments. Milk retinol concentration and yield (n = 10 per treatment) increased as VA supply increased. Segmented neutrophils (%) decreased, and lymphocytes (%) increased in blood with increasing VA supply. In conclusion, providing different supplies of VA did not affect production, mobilization of body fat, and risk of ketosis; however, excessive VA supply may have negatively affected the immune response, in part contributing to increased milk somatic cell counts during early lactation.

Currently, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) are considered to be the main causes of fibrosis. In turn, fibrosis may lead to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma or advanced cirrhosis, i.e., potentially life-threatening conditions. It is likely that therapy aimed at reducing the risk of developing hepatic steatosis and inflammation could be helpful in minimizing the threat/probability of organ fibrosis. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the influence of nutraceuticals in the prevention and treatment of liver diseases. Therefore, the aim of this review was to describe the precise role of selected ingredients such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, and curcumin. It is likely that the use of these ingredients in the treatment of patients with MASLD/MASH, along with behavioral and pharmacological therapy, may have a beneficial effect on combating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and thereby preventing liver damage.

Agriculture in the 21st century faces many formidable challenges with the growing global population. Increasing demands on the planet’s natural resources already tax existing agricultural practices. Today, many farmers are using biochemical treatments to improve their yields. Commercialized organic biostimulants exist in the form of pyroligneous acid generated by burning agricultural waste products. Recently, we examined the mechanisms through which a commercial pyroligneous acid product, Coriphol™, manufactured by Corigin Solutions, Inc., stimulates plant growth. During the 2023 growing season, outdoor studies were conducted in soybean to examine the effects of different Coriphol™ treatment concentrations on plant growth. Plant height, number of leaves, and leaf size were positively impacted in a dose-dependent manner with 2 gallon/acre soil treatments being optimal. At harvest, this level of treatment boosted crop yield by 40%. To gain an understanding of why Coriphol™ improves plant fitness, follow-up laboratory-based studies were conducted using radiocarbon flux analysis. Here, radioactive 11CO2 was administered to live plants and comparisons were made between untreated soybean plants and plants treated at an equivalent Coriphol™ dose of 2 gallons/acre. Leaf metabolites were analyzed using radio-high-performance liquid chromatography for [11C]-chlorophyll (Chl) a and b components, as well as [11C]-β-carotene (β-Car) where fractional yields were used to calculate metabolic rates of synthesis. Altogether, Coriphol™ treatment boosted rates of Chl a, Chl b, and β-Car biosynthesis 3-fold, 2.6-fold, and 4.7-fold, respectively, and also increased their metabolic turnover 2.2-fold, 2.1-fold, and 3.9-fold, respectively. Also, the Chl a/b ratio increased from 3.1 to 3.4 with treatment. Altogether, these effects contributed to a 13.8% increase in leaf carbon capture.

Tomato varieties (Solanum lycopersicum L) produced in areas prominent for mining activities contribute more deposits of metal contaminants. In turn, affects the quality and value of the products. Highlighting the level of metal contaminant in consumer’s most preferred tomato variety is also necessary for health and well-being. This study specifically aimed to investigate, i) the variability between six metal contaminants in UTC, Yowlings, and Derica tomatoes; ii) we also explored the relationship between the metal contaminants and tomato quality, and lastly, we ascertained which socioeconomic factor specifically determined preference for a particular variety of the tomatoes. The metal contaminants examined and found present using ICP-OES were nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg). We found a good agreement between most of the analyte and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Certified Reference Material 1573a (CRM 1573a) values. Although this study’s recovery for the analyte was between 83.22% and 111.00%, we also found contrary to our prediction that Cr, Ni, and Cd concentrations were higher in Derica, UTC, and the Yowlings varieties during the rainy season. A two-way ANOVA between tomatoes and planting seasons was not statistically significant (P > 0.05) in contrast to the mixed model (GLMMs) analysis that indicated a significant (P

The physical, biochemical and antioxidant properties of one white pulped (Hylocereus undatus; DG-I) and two red pulped dragon fruit species (H. polyrhizus, DG-II; H. costaricencis, DG-III) grown under sub-tropical conditions of north-west India were determined. Fruit size, fruit weight, pulp weight and pulp: peel ratio was significantly higher in DG-III, though the fruit numbers and yield per pillar was significantly less than other species. The pH, TSS, acidity, total sugar, reducing sugars and moisture content in all the species varied between 4.78-5.72, 8.63-9.31 oBrix, 0.30-0.56%, 6.64-6.91%, 4.60-4.76% and 83.44-85.82%, respectively. Total phenols and flavanols content in DG-I was 24.04 mg GAE 100 g−1 and 14.54 mg RE 100 g−1, whereas in red pulped it was significantly higher; varying between 49.12-56.40 mg GAE 100 g−1 and 30.41-31.10 mg RE 100 g−1 fruit pulp, respectively. β-carotene values in red pulped species DG-II and DG-III were 47.48 and 43.82 µg 100 g−1, respectively compared to corresponding values of 1.96 µg 100 g−1 in DG-I, a white pulped dragon fruit. Similarly, DPPH-RSC, FRAP, CUPRAC and ABTS values for red pulped dragon fruit ranged between 238.98-262.04 µmol 100 g−1, 358.8-386.40 µmol TE 100 g−1, 830.40-917.0 µmol TE 100 g−1 and 571.4-589.60 µmol 100 g−1, respectively in DG-II and DG-III in comparison to respective values of 108.75 µmol 100 g−1, 192.6 µmol TE 100 g−1, 525.6 µmol TE 100 g−1 and 400.2 µmol 100 g−1 in DG-I. The β-lain, responsible for imparting red colour in DG-II and DG-III was absent in white pulped DG-I. Seed oil content in both groups of dragon fruit varied between 31.90-33.5% with highest proportion of an essential fatty acid, linoleic acid (46.32-47.96%). In conclusion, red pulped dragon fruit has a considerably higher antioxidative potential than white one and these species may play a vital role in ensuring nutritional security for millions of people in developing nations.

Hybrid microwave–hot air (MW–HA) drying of sweet potatoes was optimized using a face-centered central composite design (FCCCD) with response surface methodology through the desirability function. The independent variables were drying temperature (50–70 °C) and microwave power (0–180 W), while the investigated responses were the drying time (Dt), the rehydration ratio (RR), the water-holding capacity (WHC), the antioxidant activity change (AA-PC), the total phenolic content change (TPC-PC), and the beta-carotene content change (BC-PC). The main criteria for the optimization of hybrid drying of sweet potatoes was to produce dried potatoes in the shortest drying time with a maximum RR and WHC and with minimum bioactive content (AA, TPC, and BC) loss. The optimum conditions were found to be a drying temperature of 54.36 °C with a microwave power of 101.97 W. At this optimum point, the Dt, RR, WHC, AA-PC, TPC-PC, and BC-PC were 61.76 min, 3.29, 36.56, 31.03%, −30.50%, and −79.64%, respectively. The results of this study provide new information about the effect of the hybrid drying method (MW–HA) on the rehydration ability and bioactive compounds of sweet potatoes, as well as the optimum values of the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin A deficiency poses serious health concerns among the Ghanaian populace, particularly children and pregnant women. The production and consumption of yellow maize, which contains pro-vitamin A carotenoids such as beta carotene, is therefore encouraged. Consequently, yellow maize consumption is fast gaining acceptance. However, in the near future comensurate increases in production must be achieved to ensure food security. In this regard, the aims of the study were to: evaluate farmer willingness to cultivate yellow maize varieties with enhanced beta carotene content, ascertain extent of farmers' knowledge on production constraints and mitigation, and evaluate farmers' perception on nutritional benefits of yellow maize and the effects of vitamin A deficiency. The survey was conducted between January and May 2018 and it covered four districts representing the forest and guinea savanna ecological zones in Ghana. In each district, five communities with 10 participants each were covered. Most yellow maize farmers (78 %) were between 15 and 55 years, 42.5 % of the farmers had no formal education, 29 % had secondary education and only 8 % had tertiary education. The main challenges facing yellow maize (YM) farmers were pest control and low yield due to erratic rainfall. Majority (70 %) of the farmers had heard about vitamin A deficiency and also noticed stunted growth, mental retardation and poor eye sight in their communities but did not link such symptoms to vitamin A deficiency. Most respondents (70 %) were not aware that yellow maize contains beta carotene. Majority (70 %) of the respondents opined that improvement in the beta carotene content of yellow maize will greatly help to drastically minimize vitamin A deficiency and enhance food security. The information elicited from farmers will guide future development of yellow maize varieties for improved production and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a non-ionizing radiation, which has a cytotoxic potential, and it is therefore necessary to protect against it. Human skin is exposed to the longer-wavelength components of UV radiation (UVA and UVB) from the sun. In the present paper, we focused on the study of eight organic UV-absorbing compounds: astragalin, beta-carotene, 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, hyperoside, 3-(4-methylbenzylidene)camphor, pachypodol, and trans-urocanic acid, as possible protectives of skin cells against UVA and UVB radiation. Their protective effects on skin cell viability, ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential, liposomal permeability, and DNA integrity were investigated. Only some of the compounds studied, such as trans-urocanic acid and hyperoside, had a significant effect on the examined hallmarks of UV-induced cell damage. This was also confirmed by an atomic force microscopy study of morphological changes in HaCaT cells or a study conducted on a 3D skin model. In conclusion, hyperoside was found to be a very effective UV-protective compound, especially against UVA radiation. Commonly used sunscreen compounds such as 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, and 3-(4-methylbenzylidene)camphor turned out to be only physical UV filters, and pachypodol with a relatively high absorption in the UVA region was shown to be more phototoxic than photoprotective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the recent reports of the World Health Organization (WHO), the share of acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) among all infectious diseases in about 75–90%. The ARVI prevalence rates make it urgent to search for new methods of prevention and treatment, adequate control of the epidemics and pandemics of influenza and COVID-19. ARVIs cause significant economic losses due to high appealability and temporary disability rates in the population. This was most noticeable since late 2019, when the SARS-CoV-2 infection became a priority for the global medical community and the general population. ARVIs constitute a heterogenous group of the infectious respiratory tract disorders caused by numerous viruses (there are more than 200 viruses, such as influenza virus, parainfluenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, coronavirus, etc.). The symptoms of ARVIs that have much in common include fever, cough, chest pain, headache, myalgia, asthenia, anosmia, etc. The paper discusses the issues of the diagnosis of bronchopulmonary diseases, such as ARVI and COVID-19, and the pathogenetically substantiated machanisms of targeting these disorders. The paper deals with systematic reviews and meta-analyses focused on the use of zinc, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin E for prevention or treatment of bronchopulmonary diseases in adults.

Background: Many drugs can have significant deleterious side effects on the different organs of the body which can change normal physiology to different pathologies. Recent research have been focusing on valuable methods to preserve the normal healthy testis from the medications’ adverse effects. The study aims to investigate the role of beta-carotene in the protection against potential amikacin’s testicular toxicity. Materials and methods: Male rats were involved in the study. Rats have divided into four groups: the first group was control, the second group has been given amikacin as an inducer of testicular toxicity; the third group has been given both amikacin and beta-carotene, and the fourth group has been given beta-carotene as prophylaxis before induction of the toxicity. The histological architecture of the testis was investigated for all the rats. Results: Amikacin caused a significant deleterious effect which included degeneration and necrosis of cells of seminiferous tubules as well as atrophy and congestion of blood vessels. Co-administration of both beta-carotene and amikacin resulted in a partial improvement in the testicular tissue while using beta-carotene as prophylaxis succeeded in protecting and preserving the normal histological features of the testis completely. Conclusion: The study concluded that beta-carotene can preserve the normal physiological testis and protect it against the amikacin’s deleterious effect on the testis.

The content of vitamins and relative biologically active substances including the products of lipids peroxidation has been studied in the blood of 115 males -patients of Department of Urology of I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University. The patients have been divided to four groups: prostatic carcinoma (PC); high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HG PIN) or precancer; mixed group of conditional control – low grade PIN, benign prostatic hyperplasia, chronic prostatitis or their combination; control group of healthy men without prostate pathology. Further statistically reliable differences have been found: patients with PC had lower level of antioxidants – lycopene, vitamin E and enhanced level of diene conjugates (products of lipid peroxidation); patients with HG PIN low level of vitamin C, total carotenoids and increased diene conjugates. The difference in vitamins-antioxidants levels in patients with PC and HG PIN has not been found out.

Pumpkin fruit consists of three parts, namely the outer skin is very strong and hard, yellow, green, cream or light brown. The thick middle part is fleshy, yellow, and can be eaten by fruit and the inner or middle part contains fiber and seeds. This study aims to compare the nutrients and antioxidants in several varieties of pumpkin. Pumpkins were obtained from the Ampel Boyolali area, Central Java, peeled the skin and separated from the flesh. The skin, flesh and inner part were considered to measure the proportion, while the flesh was analyzed for proximate, fiber content, vitamin C content, phenol content, ß-carotene content and antioxidant activity. Various varieties of pumpkin studied had significant differences in proximate, fiber, vitamin C, total phenol, ß-carotene and antioxidant activity. The Bokor pumpkin type has a higher amount of solids, protein and carbohydrates than other types. Kabocha pumpkin has a higher amount of fiber, vitamin C, fat, phenol and ß-carotene and antioxidant activity than other types

The object of the study is the period of induction of accelerated oxidation of oil solutions of fat-soluble dyes chlorophyll and beta-carotene. The effect of the content of fat-soluble dyes on the period of induction of accelerated oxidation of their solutions in refined sunflower oil was studied. The peculiarity of the work consists in establishing approximate graphic and mathematical dependences of the term of the induction period of accelerated oxidation of refined sunflower oil on the content of chlorophyll and beta-carotene separately and together. This is important for predicting the shelf life of oil solutions of fat-soluble dyes. It was determined that chlorophyll A practically does not show a pro-oxidant effect if its content is up to 0.05 g/l. The content of chlorophyll A at the level of 0.10 g/l leads to a reduction in the duration of the induction period by 14 %; 0.20 g/l – by 36 %; 0.30 g/l – by 48 %. The content of beta-carotene at the level of 0.10 g/l leads to an increase in the duration of the induction period by 35 %; 0.20 g/l – by 47 %; 0.30 g/l – by 54 %. The content in the oil system of 0.10 g/l of beta-carotene and 0.05 g/l of chlorophyll A leads to a reduction in the period of induction of accelerated oxidation by 8.4 % compared to the oil solution of 0.10 g/l of beta-carotene without chlorophyll A. The obtained data are explained by the fact that there is a compensatory effect of the antioxidant beta-carotene on the pro-oxidant effect of chlorophyll A in the oil solution. A feature of the obtained results is the possibility of predicting the shelf life of oil solutions of fat-soluble dyes. From a practical point of view, the results of the research allow to develop oil systems taking into account the separate and compatible features of reactivity to the oxidation of chlorophyll and beta-carotene. An applied aspect of using the scientific result is the possibility of expanding the assortment of oil products of increased nutritional value with different contents of chlorophyll and beta-carotene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Vitamin A and its derivatives positively influence the differentiation of epithelia and other tissues and prevent the proliferation of preneoplastic and neoplastic cells. Vitamin A is therefore taken into account as a potential supporting factor in cancer therapy. Methods: In November 2020, a systematic search was conducted searching five electronic databases (EMBASE, Cochrane, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Medline) to find studies looking at the effects of using vitamin A as a complementary therapy for cancer patients. From all 12,823 search results, 9 publications referring to 9 studies with 4296 patients were included in this systematic review. Results: The patients treated with vitamin A were diagnosed with various cancers and stages. Outcome variables were overall survival of cancer, progression-free survival, occurrence of second primary tumours and recurrences, improvement of chronic radiation-induced proctopathy and side effects of vitamin A. For the most part, the studies had a limited methodological quality. In summary, it can be said that due to the methodological deficiencies of the studies, no concrete statement can be made regarding the prolongation of overall survival and progression-free survival. There is also no evidence of the benefit of vitamin A in the treatment of chronic radiation-induced proctopathy, which can be attributed to methodological deficiencies in the study, as well. In the studies that report on side effects, it becomes clear that side effects, such as mucocutaneous symptoms, temporary increase in liver enzymes and gastrointestinal side effects occur more frequently in the group with vitamin A intervention. Conclusion: The limited interpretability of the results due to the methodological deficiencies of the included studies does not allow a final statement on the benefits of vitamin A as a complementary treatment for cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment investigated the effects of feeding low and high supplies of vitamin A (VA) during the transition period on plasma metabolites, prevalence of ketosis, and early milk production. In a randomized complete block design, 42 prefresh Holstein cows and 21 heifers were blocked by parity and calving date and assigned to 1 of 3 dietary treatments (n = 21 per treatment unless noted): CON, a transition diet with supplemental VA (75,000 IU/d) to meet the requirement; LVA, a transition diet with no supplemental VA; or HVA, a transition diet receiving supplemental VA (187,500 IU/d) 2.5 times greater than the requirement. Experimental periods were prepartum (−14 d prepartum), postpartum (1 to 30 d in milk), and carryover period (31 to 58 d in milk; common lactating diet with adequate VA was fed). Differences in dry matter intake in the pre- and postpartum periods and milk yield were not detected among treatment. Milk fat, protein, and lactose yields were similar among treatments and not affected by VA. Somatic cell count increased linearly with increasing VA. Body weight and body condition score decreased postpartum, but no VA effect was observed. Plasma retinol concentrations (n = 10 per treatment) decreased at d 2 postpartum and increased as lactation progressed, but the concentrations were unaffected by treatment. Plasma β-carotene (n = 10 per treatment) had a treatment by time interaction and its concentration decreased after parturition and remained low for 2 wk. Plasma fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate did not differ among treatments. Milk retinol concentration and yield (n = 10 per treatment) increased as VA supply increased. Segmented neutrophils (%) decreased, and lymphocytes (%) increased in blood with increasing VA supply. In conclusion, providing different supplies of VA did not affect production, mobilization of body fat, and risk of ketosis; however, excessive VA supply may have negatively affected the immune response, in part contributing to increased milk somatic cell counts during early lactation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty six sweet cassava clones were evaluated in two agricultural years, in randomized block design, with 3 replications and plots with 25 plants. The harvests were at 12 months after planting, in both years. The traits evaluated were root yield (RY), dry matter content (DMC), total carotenoids content (TC), β-carotene content (BC), trans-β-carotene content (TrBC) and total cyanide content (TCy). Genotype was significant (P<0.05) in all traits. Broad-sense heritability estimates at the plot level (h²mg) ranged from 77% (RY) to 93% (TC and TrBC), while the accuracy ranged from 0.88 (RY) to 0.96 (BC and TrBC). The genetic correlations among TC, BC and TrBC were high (0.96 to 0.99) and significant, and the genetic correlations involving these traits and TCy were negative. These results demonstrate the existence of great genetic variability in characteristics important to cassava biofortification and, consequently, great perspectives in the breeding for this purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Considering the increase of dermatomycoses and the emergence of new strains resistant to antifungal treatment, it is important to find an alternative treatment of natural origin. This study aimed to extractand purify β-carotenoid from two types of Rhodotorula diobovata and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and test its reactivity toward some yeasts isolated from dermatomycoses infection. Materials & Methods: Rhodotorula samples were isolated from extreme environmental soils, and after cultivation, they were identified genetically and apparently. Then their pigments were extracted and purified. Beta-carotene was detected by ultraviolet and infrared regions. The activity of β-carotene was tested using three different concentrations using the agar diffusion method against four isolates of Candida and Cutaneotrichosporon dermatis pathogenic species by comparing its reactivity with the antifungal Nystatin. Finding: All tested isolates, including Candida albicans HAM25, Candida dubliniensis, Candida tropicales HAM13, and Cutaneotrichosporon dermatis Judy 4, showed resistance against β-carotene purified from R. diobovata and Nystatin at the concentration 0.01mg/mI. However, β-carotene and Nystatin showed activity against all isolates with concentrations of 0.02 and 0.03mg/ml. The purified compound from R. mucilaginosa showed activity against all isolates in three concentrations, according to concentration and type. There was a significant difference between the antifungal activity of both purified β-carotene and Nystatin (p< 0.0001). Conclusion: Both isolates of Rhodotorula diobovata and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa produce β-carotene, and the preference quantitatively is to isolate R. diobovata first The activity of β-carotene against all tested yeast isolates are higher than the antifungal Nystatin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the genotype by environment interactions in the yield and nutraceutical traits of the orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) storage root in different agro-climatic zones of northern Ethiopia. Five OFSP genotypes were cultivated at three different locations following a randomized complete block design, and the yield, dry matter, beta-carotene, flavonoids, polyphenols, soluble sugars, starch, soluble proteins, and free radical scavenging activity were measured in the storage root. The results showed consistent variations in the nutritional traits of the OFSP storage root depending on both the genotype and the location, as well as on their interaction. Ininda, Gloria, and Amelia were the genotypes that provided the higher yield and dry matter, as well as the higher content of starch and beta-carotene; they also showed a high antioxidant power. These findings suggest that the studied genotypes have the potential to alleviate vitamin A deficiency. This study demonstrated a high possibility of sweet potato production for storage root yield in arid agro-climate regions with limited production inputs. Moreover, the results suggest that it is possible to enhance the yield, dry matter content, beta-carotene, starch, and polyphenols of the OFSP storage root through genotype selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Dunaliella belongs to the division Chlorophyta and is known for its ability to survive in highly saline environments. Dunaliella is an important source of carotenoids, especially beta-carotene and has a wide range of applications. In this study, we aimed to isolate and identify Dunaliella strains from active and abandoned saltworks in Greece. Four seasonal samplings were carried out in seven active saltworks and two samplings were performed in an abandoned saltwork throughout the year 2020. Strains were characterized based on their morphological and phylogenetic traits, whilst their beta-carotene potential were evaluated. Fifteen (15) Dunaliella strains were isolated and classified into nine species based on morphological and morphometrical features. The isolated strains were assigned to different species such as D. parva, D. granulata, D. minuta, D. terricola, D. asymmetrica, D. bioculata, D. viridis, D. minutissima, and D. polymorpha. The results of the phylogenetic analysis indicate the formation of distinct clades among different Dunaliella species and suggest that morphological and morphometrical features may not always align with the phylogenetic position of species in the Dunaliella clade. Strains were found to produce a low amount of beta-carotene under default laboratory conditions. This study comprises the first phylogenetic inference of several Dunaliella species and highlights a gap on molecular data for Dunaliella spp. We provide valuable information on the diversity of Dunaliella strains in the saltworks of Greece, which can be used for further research and biotechnological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regenerative Agriculture (RA) is used to describe nature-based agronomic approaches that aim to build soil health and crop resilience, minimize negative environmental outcomes, and improve farmer livelihoods. A benefit that is increasingly attributed to crops grown under RA practices is improved nutritional content. However, we do not know the extent to which RA influences crop nutritional quality and under what management approaches and context, can such effects be realized. A scoping review of recent literature (Web of Science, 2000–2021) was carried out to assess the evidence that RA approaches improve crop micronutrient quality. Papers included combinations of agronomic approaches that could be defined as Regenerative: “Organic Inputs” including composts and manures, cover crops, crop rotations, crop residues and biochars; “Reduced Tillage”, “Intercropping”, “Biostimulants” e.g. arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi; plant growth promoting bacteria, and “Irrigation”, typically deficit-irrigation and alternate wetting and drying. The crop types reviewed were predetermined covering common sources of food and included: Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), Rice (Oryza sativa L.), Maize (Zea mays L.), Pulses (Fabaceae), Alliums (Allium spp.), and “other” crop types (30 types). This scoping review supports a potential role for RA approaches in increasing the concentrations of micronutrients in the edible portions of several crop types under specific practices, although this was context specific. For example, rice grown under increased organic inputs showed significant increases in grain zinc (Zn) concentration in 15 out of 16 studies. The vitamin C concentration of tomato fruit increased in ~50% of studies when plants were grown under increased organic inputs, and in 76% of studies when plants were grown under deficit irrigation. Overall, the magnitude and reproducibility of the effects of RA practices on most crop nutritional profiles were difficult to assess due to the diversity of RA approaches, geographical conditions, and the limited number of studies for most crops in each of these categories. Future research with appropriate designs, improved on-farm surveillance and nutritional diagnostics are needed for better understanding the potential role of RA in improving the quality of food, human nutrition, and health.

ABSTRACT: In this study, we hypothesized that early postpartum (pp) metabolic and oxidative stress conditions in dairy cows (particularly those with severe negative energy balance, NEB) are associated with long-term changes in granulosa cell (GC) functions in the preovulatory follicle at the time of breeding. Blood samples were collected at wk 2 and wk 8 pp from 47 healthy multiparous cows. Follicular fluid (FF) and GC were collected from the preovulatory follicle after estrous synchronization at wk 8. Several metabolic and antioxidant parameters were measured in blood and FF, and their correlations were studied. Subsequently, 27 representative GC samples were selected for RNA sequencing analysis. The GC gene expression data of LH-responsive genes and the estradiol:progesterone ratio in FF were used to identify pre- and post-LH surge cohorts. We compared the transcriptomic profile of subgroups of cows within the highest and lowest quartiles (Q4 vs. Q1) of each parameter, focusing on the pre-LH surge cohort (n = 16, at least 3 in each subgroup). Differentially expressed genes (DEG: adjusted P-value < 0.05, 5% false discovery rate) were determined using DESeq2 analysis and were functionally annotated. Blood and FF β-carotene and vitamin E concentrations at wk 2, but not at wk 8, were associated with the most pronounced transcriptomic differences in the GC, with up to 341 DEG indicative for lower catabolism, increased oxidoreductase activity and signaling cascades that are known to enhance oocyte developmental competence, increased responsiveness to LH, and a higher steroidogenic activity. In contrast, elevated blood NEFA concentrations at wk 2 (and not at wk 8) were associated with a long-term carryover effect detectable in the GC transcriptome at wk 8 (64 DEG). These genes are related to response to lipids and ketones, oxidative stress, and immune responses, which suggests persistent cellular stress and oxidative damage. This effect was more pronounced in cows with antioxidant deficiencies at wk 8 (up to 148 DEG), with more genes involved in oxidative stress-dependent responses, apoptosis, autophagy and catabolic processes, and mitochondrial damage. Interestingly, within the severe NEB cows (high blood NEFA at wk 2), blood antioxidant concentrations (high vs. low) at wk 8 were associated with up to 194 DEG involved in activation of meiosis and other signaling pathways, indicating a better oocyte supportive capacity. This suggests that the cow antioxidant profile at the time of breeding might alleviate, at least in part, the effect of NEB on GC functions. In conclusion, these results provide further evidence that the metabolic and oxidative stress in dairy cows early postpartum can have long-term effects on GC functions in preovulatory follicles at the time of breeding. The interplay between the effects of antioxidants and NEFA illustrated here might be useful to develop intervention strategies to minimize the effect of severe NEB on fertility.

Carotenoids, in particular, beta-carotene and lycopene, have high antioxidant properties and are used to prevent and treat various diseases associated with human aging. The search for new or intensification of the existing methods of their preparation from plant raw materials and the secondary resources of its processing is relevant due to the high demand for carotenoids in the food, cosmetic and pharmacological industries. The purpose of the research is to analyze the patent information for determining the most optimal and promising directions in the technology of obtaining carotenoids from vegetable raw materials. The main method of obtaining carotenoids from vegetable raw materials and secondary resources of its processing is their extraction using organic solvents. Domestic and foreign scientists have been conducting scientific research in the field of intensification of the process of extraction of carotenoids from vegetable raw materials and secondary resources of its processing in order to increase the environmental safety of the technological process and the quality of the product obtained. Various technical solutions have been proposed on pre-processing of the feedstock using ultrasound (US) effects and microwave radiation, as well as enzymes and enzyme preparations for carotenoids. Analysis of foreign and domestic patent information has shown that studies in the field of integrated use of physical (ultrasound and microwave radiation) and biotechnological (enzymes and enzyme preparations) of pretreatment of the initial raw materials are most promising to increase the efficiency of the extraction of carotenoids from vegetable raw materials and secondary resources of its recycling.

The orange-fleshed sweet potato has interesting nutritional characteristics, as it has a high concentration of beta-carotene, which is a precursor of vitamin A. Vitamin A deficiency is a public health problem and can be avoided by adequate intake of foods rich in beta-carotene, like the orange-fleshed sweet potato. The objective of this study was to evaluate the agronomic performance of orange-fleshed sweet potato experimental genotypes under the edaphoclimatic conditions of Western São Paulo. The experiment was carried out in the municipality of Alvares Machado-SP in a sweet potato production area on a commercial scale. Planting was carried out in October 2021 using a randomized block design with four replications. Five experimental genotypes of orange-fleshed sweet potato developed by CEOFOP were evaluated, namely: F-09, F-34, U2-05, U2-19 and C-14. The cultivar Beauregard was adopted as control. At 139 days after planting, the tuberous roots were harvested and the following evaluations were carried out: total tuberous root production in Kg ha-1; number of commercial tuberous roots in roots ha-1, production of commercial tuberous roots in Kg ha-1; average mass of commercial tuberous roots in g; dry mass percentage of commercial tuberous roots; length of roots in cm, diameter of roots in cm and soluble solids, in °Brix, appearance of roots using a scale of grades, and resistance to damage caused by insect pests. The yield of the evaluated genotypes was: F-09: 59,10 t ha-1, F-34: 105,96 ha-1, U2-05: 66,30 ha-1, U2-19: 66,02 ha-1, C-14: 87,54 ha-1, and Beauregard: 46,35 ha-1. The experimental genotypes present tuberous root quality similar to the commercial control 'Beauregard'. Genotypes F-34 and C-14 have flesh color similar to 'Beauregard', and genotype F-09 has dark orange flesh, a class above the control. All evaluated genotypes can potentially contribute to the increase in yield in Western São Paulo.

The acquisition of carotenoids and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) from plants and animals for use as functional ingredients raises concerns regarding productivity and cost; utilization of microorganisms as alternative sources is an option. We proposed to evaluate the production of carotenoids and PUFAs by Rhodopseudomonas faecalis PA2 using different vegetable oils (rice bran oil, palm oil, coconut oil, and soybean oil) as carbon source, different concentrations of yeast extract as nitrogen source at different cultivation time to ensure the best production. Cultivation with soybean oil as source of carbon led to the most significant changes in the fatty acid profile. Compared to the initial condition, the strain cultivated in the optimal conditions (4% soybean oil, 0.35% yeast extract, and 14 days of incubation) showed an increase in μmax, biomass, carotenoid productivity, and microbial lipids by 102.5%, 52.7%, 33.82%, and 34.78%, respectively. The unsaturated fatty acids content was raised with additional types of PUFAs; omega-3 [alpha-linolenic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid] and omega-6 [linoleic acid and eicosatrienoic acid] fatty acids were identified. The results of ultra high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole time of flight-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS) indicated the molecular formula and mass of bacterial metabolites were identical to those of lycopene and beta-carotene. The untargeted metabolomics revealed functional lipids and several physiologically bioactive compounds. The outcome provides scientific reference regarding carotenoids, PUFAs, and useful metabolites that have not yet been reported in the species Rhodopseudomonas faecalis for further use as a microbial-based functional ingredient.

Diabetes mellitus (D.M.) is a metabolic disease that has affected over 500 million people globally. Bioactive compounds such as β-carotene and Quercetin have gained research interest for their potential antidiabetic properties, and bioactives have reported superior combinatorial effects in several ailments, including D.M. However, poor oral bioavailability has limited their potential application. Thus, the present study was focused on developing ultrasonically fabricated β-Carotene nanoemulsion (βC-NE) by employing capmul as the oil phase, Gelucire 44/14 as surfactant and Acconon MCM C8 as co-surfactant. The 3 factor- 3 level Box-Behnken design (BBD) was applied to optimise the βC-NE and study the impact of selected independent variables such as % Smix (5 to 9%), amplitude (20–30%) and sonication time (2.5–7.5 min) on responses including globule size (G.S.), poly dispersibility Index (PDI) and entrapment efficiency (E.E.). Further, the combinatorial effect of βC-NE with Quercetin Nanoemulsion (QU-NE) in the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model was evaluated. The results exhibited that 7% Smix at 25% amplitude for 5 min produced βC-NE with a droplet size of 153.1 ± 12.25 nm, 0.200 ± 0.04 PDI, and 73.25 ± 3.25% E.E. The βC-NE showed superior in-vivo bioavailability by 5.38 folds. The βC-NE, combined with QU-NE, exhibited potential therapeutic benefits in controlling body weight, blood sugar level, lipid levels, and tissue damage markers. Additionally, the pancreatic cells and hepatic cells were well protected. These results demonstrate the potential benefits of βC-NE and QU-NE in combination and recommend them as a substitute strategy for diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finishing pigs (N = 224; 28.66 ± 1.90 kg bodyweight) were randomly assigned across 56 pens of either four barrows or gilts, and assigned to one of four diets: control (7,656 IU vitamin A/kg), control supplemented with vitamin A (4.36 ppm, Rovimix A 1000, DSM, Parsippany, NJ, USA), control supplemented with beta-carotene (163.28 ppm, Rovimix β-Carotene 10%, DSM, Parsippany), or control supplemented with oxidized beta-carotene (40 ppm; 10% active ingredient, Avivagen, Ottawa, ON, Canada). Pigs and feeder weights were obtained at the start of the study (d 0), and end of each phase (d 21, 42, and 63). A subset of gilts had a blood sample taken via jugular venipuncture on d 0, a blood sample and vaccinations of Lawsonia intracellularis and porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) on d 18, a blood sample and booster vaccination of PCV2 on d 39, a blood sample on day 60, and a final blood sample on day 63. Gilts were euthanized at the end of the study to obtain a liver (entire right lobe) and a jejunum sample (15.24 cm at 10% of length). Additionally, the second and fourth right anterior mammary were collected to assess anterior mammary tissues. Data were analyzed in SAS 9.4 (Statistical Analysis System, Cary, NC) via GLIMMIX procedure. Oxidized beta-carotene supplementation increased (P = 0.02) ADG across phases over vitamin A supplementation, although there were no differences (P = 0.18) in the body weight of pigs. There was no effect (P > 0.05) of diet on plasma or hepatic retinol, IgG or IgM levels, or immune cell presence in developing mammary tissue. Supplemented vitamin A tended (P = 0.05) to increase the mRNA abundance of retinol binding protein in the jejunum, but other mRNA abundance for genes (alcohol dehydrogenase class 1, lecithin retinol acyltransferase phosphatidylcholine-retinol O-acyltransferase, and beta-carotene oxygenase 1) were not affected (P > 0.05) by dietary treatments. A diet by time interaction (P = 0.04) was noted for the circovirus S/P ratio, where vitamin A supplementation had the best ratio compared to other diets. Analyzed titer levels for the circovirus vaccine had an interaction (P < 0.01) for diet by time, where vitamin A supplementation had the highest titer at the end of the study. Thus, pigs supplemented with oxidized beta-carotene had an improved ADG over vitamin A supplemented pigs, but pigs supplemented with vitamin A seemed to have an improved immune status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Vitamins A, D and E and beta-carotene may have a protective function for cognitive health, due to their antioxidant capacities. Methods. We analyzed data from 1334 non-demented participants (mean age 84 years) from the AgeCoDe study, a prospective multicenter-cohort of elderly general-practitioner patients in Germany, of whom n = 250 developed all-cause dementia and n = 209 developed Alzheimer's dementia (AD) during 7 years of follow-up. We examined whether concentrations of vitamins A (retinol), D (25-hydroxycholecalciferol) and E (alpha-tocopherol) and beta-carotene, would be associated with incident (AD) dementia. Results. In our sample, 33.7% had optimum vitamin D concentrations (≥50 nmol/L). Higher concentrations of vitamin D were associated with lower incidence of all-cause dementia and AD (HR 0.99 (95%CI 0.98; 0.99); HR0.99 (95%CI 0.98; 0.99), respectively). In particular, subjects with vitamin D deficiency (25.3%, <25 nmol/L) were at increased risk for all-cause dementia and AD (HR1.91 (95%CI 1.30; 2.81); HR2.28 (95%CI 1.47; 3.53), respectively). Vitamins A and E and beta-carotene were unrelated to (AD) dementia. Conclusions. Vitamin D deficiency increased the risk to develop (AD) dementia. Our study supports the advice for monitoring vitamin D status in the elderly and vitamin D supplementation in those with vitamin D deficiency. We observed no relationships between the other vitamins with incident (AD) dementia, which is in line with previous observational studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One hundred and fifty-two nursery pigs (PIC, Hendersonville, TN) were randomly assigned to mix sex pens and one of six dietary treatments in a 3 × 2 factorial. Diets included no added fat, 3% added choice white grease, or 3% added soy oil with either a supplemented vitamin A (for a total of 11,640 IU vitamin A/kg, Rovimix A 1000, DSM, Parsippany, NJ, US) or beta-carotene (for a total of 8,708 IU vitamin A/kg equivalent, Rovimix β-Carotene 10%, DSM). Pigs were given a 3-d adaptation period upon arrival. Pigs were weighed at the start of the study and at the end of each phase. A blood sample was taken from one pig per pen at the start and end of the study. Tissues were collected from eight pigs at the start of the study and six pigs per treatment at the end of the study. Data were analyzed via the GLIMMIX procedure in SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst. Cary, NC). Pen was the experimental unit, and repeated measures were used for growth performance and blood parameters. There was no fat by supplement interaction (P  > 0.05) on body weight (BW), but there was a tendency (P  = 0.054) for heavier BWs when soy oil was added to diets. There was no difference (P  > 0.05) in average daily feed intake or average daily gain (ADG). There was an improved gain:feed (P  = 0.02) when pigs were fed choice white grease over no added fat. There were time differences (P  < 0.05) for plasma vitamins A (retinol), D (25 hydroxy vitamin D3), and E (alpha-tocopherol). Vitamin A and D values were higher at the end of the study, whereas vitamin E values were lower at the end of the study. The choice white grease diets had the highest (P  < 0.05) plasma vitamins D and E (6.74 ng/mL and 2.87 ppm, respectively). Pigs supplemented with vitamin A had higher (P  < 0.05) hepatic vitamin A than pigs supplemented with beta-carotene (19.9 vs. 15.6 ppm, respectively). There were no differences (P  < 0.05) between immunoglobulins G and M or mRNA abundance of select genes (retinol binding protein 2, alcohol dehydrogenase class 1, lecithin retinol acyltransferase phosphatidylcholine-retinol O-acyltransferase, and beta-carotene oxygenase 1). In conclusion, fat inclusion level and type, with either vitamin A or beta-carotene supplementation, did not affect the overall nursery pig growth performance. The addition of fat resulted in an increase in ADG and BW. Diets with choice white grease had the highest plasma vitamins D and E, and supplemental vitamin A increased hepatic vitamin A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown that salinity eustress enhances the nutritional and bioactive compounds and antiradical capacity (ARC) of vegetables and increases the food values for nourishing human diets. Amaranth is a salinity-resistant, rapidly grown C4 leafy vegetable with diverse variability and usage. It has a high possibility to enhance nutritional and bioactive compounds and ARC by the application of salinity eustress. Hence, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of sodium chloride stress response in a selected Lalshak (A. gangeticus) genotype on minerals, ascorbic acid (AsA), Folin–Ciocalteu reducing capacity, beta-carotene (BC), total flavonoids (TF), pigments, polyphenolic profiles, and ARC. A high-yield, high-ARC genotype (LS6) was grown under conditions of 0, 25, 50, and 100 mM sodium chloride in four replicates following a block design with complete randomization. We recognized nine copious polyphenolic compounds in this accession for the first time. Minerals, Folin–Ciocalteu reducing capacity, AsA, BC, pigments, polyphenolic profiles, and ARC of Lalshak were augmented progressively in the order: 0 < 25 < 50 < 100 mM sodium chloride. At 50 mM and 100 mM salt concentrations, minerals, AsA, Folin–Ciocalteu reducing capacity, BC, TF, pigments, polyphenolic profiles, and ARC of Lalshak were much greater than those of the control. Lalshak could be used as valuable food for human diets as a potent antioxidant. Sodium chloride-enriched Lalshak provided outstanding quality to the final product in terms of minerals, AsA, Folin–Ciocalteu reducing capacity, BC, TF, pigments, polyphenolic profiles, and ARC. We can cultivate it as a promising alternative crop in salinity-prone areas of the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several risk factors, including nutritional/lifestyle ones, play a role in gastric cancer etiology. Further interactions with mental health have also been emphasized. We hypothesized that individuals with mental disorders would exhibit compromised nutrient intake, increasing their risk of gastric cancer. The state of mental health was evaluated in 82 patients with gastric cancer and 95 healthy controls using the 21-item Depression–Anxiety–Stress Scale. The participants’ dietary intakes were evaluated by a 168-item food frequency questionnaire. Based on fully adjusted logistic regressions, there was a significant association between depression (OR = 1.938, CI 95%: 1.009–3.723) and stress (OR = 2.630, CI 95%: 1.014–6.819) with increased odds of gastric cancer. According to fully adjusted multinomial regressions, vitamins A and B6, beta-carotene, and black tea decreased the odds of depression, based on comparing the control group with cases of depression, while sugar and salt increased its odds. The highest significant association was found for salt intake and anxiety in cases with present anxiety (OR = 4.899, 95% CI: 2.218–10.819), and the highest significant protective effect was found for vitamin B6 and depression in cases with present depression (OR = 0.132, 95% CI: 0.055–0.320). However, considering causal relationships and clarifying the underlying mechanisms is imperative and requires further investigation. Advising healthy dietary patterns, e.g., a Mediterranean diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals such as vitamin A, B6, beta-carotene, and fiber, is expected to reduce the odds of gastric cancer, possibly related to lower levels of anxiety and depression.

Provision of fat-soluble antioxidants necessary for cow organism and milk synthesis depends on their concentration in the diet. Administration of the natural vs synthetic forms of carotene and other bioactive components has the potential of better bio-availability. The aim of this study wos to estimate the effect of cow diet supplementation with carrots, red beet and fodder beet on the total feed intake, the total carotene concentration in cow blood and milk production. A total of 12 cows of Holstein Friesian breed were divided into control (CG) and experimental group (EG). In the EG cow diet was supplemented with 8% (dry mater bases) of vegetable mix of carrots (20%), red beet (20%) and fodder beet (60%) in the indoor period (November-December 2017) for 5 weeks. The total weights of dry matter consumed per day were 20.7 and 19.8 kg respectively, for cows in EG and CG. The carotene concentration in the blood of cows before supplementation was under the recommended beta-carotene level of minimum 3.0 mg/l. During experimental period the increase in carotene concentration in blood of cows was much more in EG, showing the positive effect of carrots, red beet and fodder beet supplementation The mean daily milk yields were 32.9 kg and 31.4 kg for EG and CG, respectively, with a response of 0.4 kg milk for cows in EG. Milk producers can be suggested to add this vegetable to the diet of dairy cows in order to improve beta-carotene level in cow blood and to maintain a high milk production.

Optogenetics arises as a valuable tool to precisely control genetic circuits in microbial cell factories. Light control holds the promise of optimizing bioproduction methods and maximizing yields, but its implementation at different steps of the strain development process and at different culture scales remains challenging. In this study, we aim to control beta-carotene bioproduction using optogenetics in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and investigate how its performance translates across culture scales. We built four lab-scale illumination devices, each handling different culture volumes, and each having specific illumination characteristics and cultivating conditions. We evaluated optogenetic activation and beta-carotene production across devices and optimized them both independently. Then, we combined optogenetic induction and beta-carotene production to make a light-inducible beta-carotene producer strain. This was achieved by placing the transcription of the bifunctional lycopene cyclase/phytoene synthase CrtYB under the control of the pC120 optogenetic promoter regulated by the EL222-VP16 light-activated transcription factor, while other carotenogenic enzymes (CrtI, CrtE, tHMG) were expressed constitutively. We show that illumination, culture volume and shaking impact differently optogenetic activation and beta-carotene production across devices. This enabled us to determine the best culture conditions to maximize light-induced beta-carotene production in each of the devices. Our study exemplifies the stakes of scaling up optogenetics in devices of different lab scales and sheds light on the interplays and potential conflicts between optogenetic control and metabolic pathway efficiency. As a general principle, we propose that it is important to first optimize both components of the system independently, before combining them into optogenetic producing strains to avoid extensive troubleshooting. We anticipate that our results can help designing both strains and devices that could eventually lead to larger scale systems in an effort to bring optogenetics to the industrial scale.

Considering the eventual depletion of fossil fuels from which mineral oil transformer fluids are derived in addition to the environmental footprint associated with the use of the latter, vegetable oils are increasingly becoming formidable alternatives both as environmentally benign lubricants and as dielectric fluids. However, their lower oxidative stability and higher viscosity compared to traditional mineral oils are their main shortfalls. To address the lower oxidative stability problem, addition of synthetic antioxidants to vegetable oil transformer fluids has been found technically feasible, but given that these natural esters already have organo-soluble antioxidants, information about the concentrations of these phytochemicals is essential for a systematic approach to boosting oxidative stability. The presence of some of these in natural esters can lead to a synergy in antioxidation processes. In this paper, we have used Ultraviolet–Visible Spectroscopy and Infrared Spectroscopy to demonstrate the occurrence of natural antioxidants, alfa-tocopherol and beta-carotene, in concentrations sufficient to offer a synergistic effect in samples of transformer fluids from a producer. One major role of beta-carotene is quenching of reactive singlet oxygen species in the oxidation reaction chain when a photosensitizer is present. Therefore, our findings in this paper is a useful guide to planning a cost-effective means of producing a quality transformer fluid where the cost involved in mitigating photoinduced degradation of oil is a problem. Accordingly, the findings shed light on the quality of bio-oils used by the producer of the transformer fluids used in this study.

Serum C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of systemic inflammation, is associated with increased risk for numerous inflammation-driven chronic diseases. A prior longitudinal study showed that the Low Inflammatory Foods Everyday (LIFE) diet, which is rich in dark green leafy vegetables (DGLV), lowered CRP over a mean follow-up period of 6 months. In this retrospective study, we investigate whether patients who consume the LIFE diet or their regular diet plus one component of the LIFE diet (LIFE smoothie), experience reductions in high-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) in 7 days. Sixteen patients in a community practice met inclusion criteria. Patient compliance was assessed by patient interviews and measurements of beta-carotene, which is abundant in DGLV. Following the interventions, CRP decreased in both the LIFE diet (−0.47 mg/L, P =.02) and smoothie groups (−1.2 mg/L, P =.04). No statistically significant difference in reduction was observed between groups (P =.18). Plasma beta-carotene increased in both groups (+23.2, P =.02; +20.6, P =.006, respectively). These findings suggest that the LIFE diet or a regular American diet supplemented with the LIFE smoothie may quickly reduce systemic inflammation and the risk of many chronic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to develop an oxygen scavenger and antioxidant active packaging material for fried peanuts. The packaging solution, which has been made at the laboratory previously, has been developed by cast film extrusion and is composed of low-density polyethylene-ethylene vinyl alcohol-polyethylene terephthalate (LDPE/EVOH/PET)-based films containing β-carotene (CAR). In comparison with film without additive, developed film presented an orange colouring (higher L* and b* values and lower a* values) and an increase in oxygen induction time (OIt) from 4.5 to 14.1 min. The incorporation of β-carotene to the formulation also brings about a significant effect on the thermal stability as maximum degradation temperatures increased around 1%. Regarding the oxygen absorption capacity of the films, values of 1.39 ± 0.10 mL O2 per g of film at laboratory scale and 1.7 ± 0.3 mL O2 per g of multilayer (ML)/LDPE_CAR were obtained, respectively, after 3 days, proving the suitability of the packaging solutions as oxygen absorbers. To validate the packaging solution, the oxidative stability of fried peanuts packed in fabricated multilayer β-carotene bags was evaluated for 3 months at 40 °C. The hexanal content remained constant during this period. Meanwhile, peanuts packed in ML without β-carotene increased their hexanal content to 294%. This fact indicated a lower extent of oxidation in fried peanuts compared to food samples packaged in control films, suggesting the potential of ML/LDPE_CAR films as sustainable and antioxidant food packaging systems to offer protection against lipid oxidation in foods. Sensory evaluation confirmed that ML/LDPE_CAR films provided the peanut samples with an extra aroma due to the volatile degradation products of β-carotene (such as β-cyclocitral or 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-ol). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was undertaken to determine the effect of the incorporation of grated carrot in chicken patties. Chicken patties were prepared by replacing lean meat with grated carrot at 3 levels, i.e., 10, 15, 20 %. The three treatments along with control were evaluated for physico chemical properties, sensory evaluation and β-carotene estimation. Each experiment was repeated four times. There was a significant increase (P<0.05) in cooking yield, moisture, crude fibre and ash content with an increasing level of grated carrot incorporation. Product pH, crude protein and crude fat showed a significant decrease (P<0.05) with an increase in the level of incorporation of grated carrot. Mean sensory scores for treatments were found to be significantly higher (P<0.05) for texture and overall acceptability, while general appearance was similar when compared to control. The optimum incorporation level of grated carrot was found to be 15 % for chicken patties preparation. Mean sensory scores of 15% grated carrot treatment for general appearance, flavour, texture, juiciness and overall acceptability were comparable with control treatment during the storage period. Chicken patties could be stored safely in LDPE pouches for 9 days at refrigeration temperature (4±1°C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to fabricate cellulose acetate (CA) nanofiber patch containing gac extract using electrospinning process, and to characterize and investigate release and stability of the patch. The patch was successfully prepared using electrospinning process from 17% w/v CA and 3.40% w/v gac extract dissolved in 2:1 v/v acetone/ dimethylacetamide. Diameter of the obtained nanofibers of the patch was 341±63 nm and the gac extract was entrapped well in the nanofibers. Burst release was observed in the release profile of beta-carotene in the extract from the patch and approximately 62 % of beta-carotene was released in an hour. The beta-carotene content in the nanofiber patch remained 50% of the initial amount after 6 months at 40°C and 75%RH, while the physical properties of nanofiber patch were unchanged. This study may enhance the use of gac-loaded CA nanofiber patch and the applications of nanofibers for cosmetic purpose.

Hybrid microwave–hot air (MW–HA) drying of sweet potatoes was optimized using a face-centered central composite design (FCCCD) with response surface methodology through the desirability function. The independent variables were drying temperature (50–70 °C) and microwave power (0–180 W), while the investigated responses were the drying time (Dt), the rehydration ratio (RR), the water-holding capacity (WHC), the antioxidant activity change (AA-PC), the total phenolic content change (TPC-PC), and the beta-carotene content change (BC-PC). The main criteria for the optimization of hybrid drying of sweet potatoes was to produce dried potatoes in the shortest drying time with a maximum RR and WHC and with minimum bioactive content (AA, TPC, and BC) loss. The optimum conditions were found to be a drying temperature of 54.36 °C with a microwave power of 101.97 W. At this optimum point, the Dt, RR, WHC, AA-PC, TPC-PC, and BC-PC were 61.76 min, 3.29, 36.56, 31.03%, −30.50%, and −79.64%, respectively. The results of this study provide new information about the effect of the hybrid drying method (MW–HA) on the rehydration ability and bioactive compounds of sweet potatoes, as well as the optimum values of the process.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a non-ionizing radiation, which has a cytotoxic potential, and it is therefore necessary to protect against it. Human skin is exposed to the longer-wavelength components of UV radiation (UVA and UVB) from the sun. In the present paper, we focused on the study of eight organic UV-absorbing compounds: astragalin, beta-carotene, 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, hyperoside, 3-(4-methylbenzylidene)camphor, pachypodol, and trans-urocanic acid, as possible protectives of skin cells against UVA and UVB radiation. Their protective effects on skin cell viability, ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential, liposomal permeability, and DNA integrity were investigated. Only some of the compounds studied, such as trans-urocanic acid and hyperoside, had a significant effect on the examined hallmarks of UV-induced cell damage. This was also confirmed by an atomic force microscopy study of morphological changes in HaCaT cells or a study conducted on a 3D skin model. In conclusion, hyperoside was found to be a very effective UV-protective compound, especially against UVA radiation. Commonly used sunscreen compounds such as 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, and 3-(4-methylbenzylidene)camphor turned out to be only physical UV filters, and pachypodol with a relatively high absorption in the UVA region was shown to be more phototoxic than photoprotective.

In this study, we hypothesized that early postpartum (pp) metabolic and oxidative stress conditions in dairy cows (particularly those with severe negative energy balance, NEB) are associated with long-term changes in granulosa cell (GC) functions in the preovulatory follicle at the time of breeding. Blood samples were collected at wk 2 and wk 8 pp from 47 healthy multiparous cows. Follicular fluid (FF) and GC were collected from the preovulatory follicle after estrous synchronization at wk 8. Several metabolic and antioxidant parameters were measured in blood and FF, and their correlations were studied. Subsequently, 27 representative GC samples were selected for RNA sequencing analysis. The GC gene expression data of LH-responsive genes and the estradiol:progesterone ratio in FF were used to identify pre- and post-LH surge cohorts. We compared the transcriptomic profile of subgroups of cows within the highest and lowest quartiles (Q4 vs. Q1) of each parameter, focusing on the pre-LH surge cohort (n = 16, at least 3 in each subgroup). Differentially expressed genes (DEG: adjusted P -value < 0.05, 5% false discovery rate) were determined using DESeq2 analysis and were functionally annotated. Blood and FF β-carotene and vitamin E concentrations at wk 2, but not at wk 8, were associated with the most pronounced transcriptomic differences in the GC, with up to 341 DEG indicative for lower catabolism, increased oxidoreductase activity and signaling cascades that are known to enhance oocyte developmental competence, increased responsiveness to LH, and a higher steroidogenic activity. In contrast, elevated blood NEFA concentrations at wk 2 (and not at wk 8) were associated with a long-term carryover effect detectable in the GC transcriptome at wk 8 (64 DEG). These genes are related to response to lipids and ketones, oxidative stress, and immune responses, which suggests persistent cellular stress and oxidative damage. This effect was more pronounced in cows with antioxidant deficiencies at wk 8 (up to 148 DEG), with more genes involved in oxidative stress-dependent responses, apoptosis, autophagy and catabolic processes, and mitochondrial damage. Interestingly, within the severe NEB cows (high blood NEFA at wk 2), blood antioxidant concentrations (high vs. low) at wk 8 were associated with up to 194 DEG involved in activation of meiosis and other signaling pathways, indicating a better oocyte supportive capacity. This suggests that the cow antioxidant profile at the time of breeding might alleviate, at least in part, the effect of NEB on GC functions. In conclusion, these results provide further evidence that the metabolic and oxidative stress in dairy cows early postpartum can have long-term effects on GC functions in preovulatory follicles at the time of breeding. The interplay between the effects of antioxidants and NEFA illustrated here might be useful to develop intervention strategies to minimize the effect of severe NEB on fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]