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Background: On 1 January 2024, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula. We entered the disaster area to provide relief and set up a makeshift clinic in an evacuation center to evaluate the quality and quantity of food provided there., Methods: This cross-sectional study, of mainly older adults, was conducted to analyze the amino acid and fatty acid composition of evacuation shelter meals in comparison with the results of the Japan National Survey, mainly focused on older adults. (1) We analyzed 11 evacuation foods using the "Duplicated Combination" Model and the digestible amino acid score (DIAAS) in relation to the half-life determined by the N-terminal amino acid proteins. (2) Linoleic acid (LA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) levels were compared with European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommendations (3). The national survey of emergency food stocks in 198 hospitals and 189 social care institutions conducted in Jan 2024 was analyzed., Results: (1) DIAAS was less than 1.00 for all 11 foods provided and was considered inadequate, (2) the half-life of the protein, whose N -terminal valine has a half-life of 100 h, must be considered a possible deficiency when living in a shelter for more than a week, (3) LA and ALA levels were less than 40% of EFSA recommended, (4) the nationwide survey found that 80% of people have a three-day supply and data on amino acids and fatty acids were not available due to a lack of questionnaires., Conclusion: Analysis of food in evacuation shelters after the Noto Peninsula earthquake revealed the quality of amino acids involved in shelter meals using DIAAS and the lack of LA and ALA for older adults. The "Duplicated Combination" model used in this analysis could be beneficial for developing improved nutrition plans in similar future scenarios, mainly for older adults., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Fatty acids (FA) play a key role in infant growth and development. The aim of this study was to study the temporal evolution of FA from 3 or 4 weeks to 4 months postpartum in human milk (HM) from Filipino mothers. Mid-morning HM samples (n = 41) were collected after full expression from a single breast and FA were assessed using gas-liquid chromatography coupled to flame ionization detector. The total FA content remained relatively constant over the study period. The most abundant FA in HM were oleic acid (OA), palmitic acid (PA) and linoleic acid (LA), a trend similarly reported in HM from European and Chinese mothers. The former two were unchanged over the course of lactation while there was a slight increase in LA content over time. Similarly, the saturated fatty acid (SFA) and monounsaturated FA (MUFA) contents did not vary over the first four months of lactation. The SFA content was much higher than that reported in HM from Europe and China, mainly driven by PA, lauric and myristic acids. The MUFA content on the other hand, while comparable to that reported in HM from Chinese populations was lower than that reported in Europe. There was a small increase in the polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) content over the study duration. The levels of essential FA, linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA) were found to be much lower than that reported in other populations. The concentrations of arachidonic acid (AA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) remained stable over the study duration. AA and DHA in HM from Filipino mothers were comparable to global averages, however in case of the latter the concentration was found to be lower than in previous reports. DHA is of great clinical significance as it plays a key role in infant growth and development. In our study, we observed a wide inter- and intra-individual variability in the levels of DHA in HM, presumably reflecting diverse intakes of DHA rich foods and bioconversion in vivo. Personalized recommendations may help achieve recommended levels of DHA amongst population with levels below global averages. This may help achieve HM sufficiency and therefore be linked to clinical benefits for the mother and the baby. SUMMARY: This study details the temporal evolution of human milk (HM) fatty acids (FA) in Filipino mothers up to four months postpartum. The total FA content remained relatively constant over the study period. The most abundant FA were oleic, palmitic and linoleic acids. HM from Filipino mothers had relatively higher saturated FA content driven by palmitic, lauric and myristic acids, while the levels of essential FA, linoleic and α-linoleic acids were lower compared to other populations. Similarly, the concentration of monounsaturated FA were also lower than that reported in HM from European mothers. Arachidonic acid and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) concentrations were comparable to global averages however the HM DHA levels were seen to have decreased when compared to previous reports from the Philippines. Additionally, a wide variability was seen in HM DHA levels suggesting a need for strategies such as personalized recommendations in order to ensure HM DHA sufficiency., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest Francesca Giuffrida, Tinu Mary Samuel, Sagar K. Thakkar, Surabhi Devaraj and Mickaël Hartweg are employees of Société des Produits Nestlé SA., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

The main objective of this research was to study the biological characteristics in terms of antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Ajuga iva and determine the best analytical and extraction methods applicable to this specie and studied compounds. A short screening of its nutritional value in terms of chemical composition is also included. A. iva leaves were analyzed for crude protein (CP), cell wall [neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and acid detergent lignin (ADL)], minerals, fatty acids, essential oils, and phenolic compounds. Mature aerial parts of A. iva were randomly collected during the Spring season from Mograne-Zaghouan, Tunisia. Leaves of A. iva contained 13.4 ± 0.4% CP, 26.3 ± 0.35% NDF, 20.2 ± 0.42% ADF, and 5.13 ± 0.21% ADL. Mineral content (13.0 ± 0.45%) was mainly composed of potassium (4.5% g DM) and magnesium (4.25% DM). Leaves of A. iva had linolenic (26.29 ± 0.760%) and linoleic (37.66 ± 2.35%) acids as the main components of the acid profile. Thymol was found to be the most dominant (23.43%) essential oil, followed by 4-vinylguaiacol (14.27%) and linalool (13.66%). HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS analysis pointed out the presence of phytoecdysteroids. Phenolic acids and flavonoids, such as glycosylated derivatives of naringenin, eriodyctiol, and apigenin, were detected in the methanol extract of A. iva leaves. Our results underline the importance of choosing proper extraction methods and solvents to extract and characterize the described compounds profile of A. iva leaves. Results also show A. iva leaves as a potential source of functional ingredients with beneficial health-promoting properties. Overall, leaves of A. iva have low biological activities (antioxidant and antimicrobial activities) with a chemical composition suitable as a feed for ruminants in rangeland pasture. It also has low-grade antibacterial or medicinal characteristics when fed to ruminants.

Emerging studies are reporting associations between skeletal muscle abnormalities and survival in cancer patients. Cancer prognosis is associated with depletion of essential fatty acids in erythrocytes and plasma in humans. However the relationship between skeletal muscle membrane fatty acid composition and survival is unknown. This study investigates the relationship between fatty acid content of phospholipids in skeletal muscle and survival in cancer patients. Rectus abdominis biopsies were collected during cancer surgery from 35 patients diagnosed with cancer. Thin-layer and gas chromatography were used for quantification of phospholipid fatty acids. Cutpoints for survival were defined using optimal stratification. Median survival was between 450 and 500 days when patients had arachidonic acid (AA) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in muscle phospholipid below the cut-point compared to 720-800 days for patients above. Cox regression analysis revealed that low amounts of AA, EPA and DHA are risk factors for death. The risk of death remained significant for AA [HR 3.5 (1.11-10.87), p = 0.03], EPA [HR 3.92 (1.1-14.0), p = 0.04] and DHA [HR 4.08 (1.1-14.6), p = 0.03] when adjusted for sex. Lower amounts of essential fatty acids in skeletal muscle membrane is a predictor of survival in cancer patients. These results warrant investigation to restore bioactive fatty acids in people with cancer., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

Climate change scenarios predict increases in temperature and organic matter supply from land to water, which affect trophic transfer of nutrients and contaminants in aquatic food webs. How essential nutrients, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and potentially toxic contaminants, such as methylmercury (MeHg), at the base of aquatic food webs will be affected under climate change scenarios, remains unclear. The objective of this outdoor mesocosm study was to examine how increased water temperature and terrestrially-derived dissolved organic matter supply (tDOM; i.e., lake browning), and the interaction of both, will influence MeHg and PUFA in organisms at the base of food webs (i.e. seston; the most edible plankton size for zooplankton) in subalpine lake ecosystems. The interaction of higher temperature and tDOM increased the burden of MeHg in seston (< 40 μm) and larger sized plankton (microplankton; 40-200 μm), while the MeHg content per unit biomass remained stable. However, PUFA decreased in seston, but increased in microplankton, consisting mainly of filamentous algae, which are less readily bioavailable to zooplankton. We revealed elevated dietary exposure to MeHg, yet decreased supply of dietary PUFA to aquatic consumers with increasing temperature and tDOM supply. This experimental study provides evidence that the overall food quality at the base of aquatic food webs deteriorates during ongoing climate change scenarios by increasing the supply of toxic MeHg and lowering the dietary access to essential nutrients of consumers at higher trophic levels., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

Human milk fatty acid composition varies during lactation and is influenced by maternal diet, maternal lifestyle-related factors and genetic background. This is one of the first studies to investigate a period effect, that is, the impact of lifestyle-related changes on human milk fatty acid composition, in two different cohorts. Lactating women were recruited from the general population a decade apart in Ulm, Germany, using similar methodology. Human milk samples collected 6 weeks postpartum were analysed (Ulm Birth Cohort Study (UBCS (2000)), n 567; Ulm SPATZ Health Study (SPATZ (2012)), n 458). Centred log ratio transformation was applied to fatty acid data. Principal component analysis was used to determine study-dependent fatty acid profiles. A general linear model was used to determine the study (or period) effect on fatty acid profiles adjusting for duration of gestation, age, education, delivery mode, smoking and pre-pregnancy BMI. Two principal components were retained (PC1 and PC2). PC1 was associated with UBCS, while PC2 was associated with SPATZ. PC1 comprised high SFA, and low MUFA, n-6 and n-3 long-chain PUFA (LCPUFA). The inverse was true for PC2. Although human milk remains a source of essential fatty acids, infants could be at risk of inadequate n-3 and n-6 LCPUFA intake through human milk. The differences in the human milk fatty acid profiles also reflect changes in maternal dietary habits in the more recent cohort, which may comprise lower intakes of dietary trans-fatty acids and SFA and higher intakes of vegetable oils.

This study determined the intakes of complementary foods (CFs) and milk-based formulas (MFs) by a total of 119 subjects aged 6-23.9 months from urban day care centers. Dietary intakes were assessed using two-day weighed food records. Intake adequacy of energy and nutrients was compared to the Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNI) for Malaysia. The most commonly consumed CFs were cereals (rice, noodles, bread). The subjects derived approximately half of their energy requirements (kcals) from CFs (57 ± 35%) and MFs (56 ± 31%). Protein intake was in excess of their RNI requirements, from both CFs (145 ± 72%) and MFs (133 ± 88%). Main sources of protein included meat, dairy products, and western fast food. Intake of CFs provided less than the RNI requirements for vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, folate, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and zinc. Neither CF nor MF intake met the Adequate Intake (AI) requirements for essential fatty acids. These findings indicate imbalances in the dietary intake of the subjects that may have adverse health implications, including increased risk of rapid weight gain from excess protein intake, and linear growth faltering and intellectual impairment from multiple micronutrient deficiencies. Interventions are needed to improve child feeding knowledge and practices among parents and child care providers.

Milk contains several important nutrients that are beneficial for human health. This review considers the nutritional qualities of essential fatty acids (FAs), especially omega-3 (ω-3) and omega-6 (ω-6) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) present in milk from ruminant and non-ruminant species. In particular, the impact of milk fatty acids on metabolism is discussed, including its effects on the central nervous system. In addition, we presented data indicating how animal feeding-the main way to modify milk fat composition-may have a potential impact on human health, and how rearing and feeding systems strongly affect milk quality within the same animal species. Finally, we have presented the results of in vivo studies aimed at supporting the beneficial effects of milk FA intake in animal models, and the factors limiting their transferability to humans were discussed.

Objectives: Essential fatty acids (EFA), including linoleic acid (LA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), are indispensable for proper brain growth especially in the first months after birth when it develops most rapidly. Since fats, especially EFA, in breast milk are highly variable between mothers, we indirectly examined whether milk energy, LA and ALA content in breast milk affect volume and shape of the infant's head., Methods: The study encompassed 60 mothers and their healthy term-born infants between the third and sixth month of lactation. The percentage of macronutrients and dry matter in human milk samples was assessed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and LA and ALA concentrations in breast milk were determined using gas chromatography (GC). Infant head measurements were taken using standard anthropometric equipment and methods., Results: LA content in breast milk was found to be positively associated with head volume in boys. Furthermore, ALA content was positively associated with the head height-to-length ratio thus with more arched head in infants irrespective of sex. No relationship was found between milk energy content in mothers' milk and infant head dimensions., Conclusions: This is the first study to demonstrate a relationship between EFA concentration in human milk and infant head dimensions. Given that LA and ALA in human milk are variable in women and due to the extremely rapid growth of nerve tissue in the first months of life, adequate supply of EFA in breast milk should attract the attention of public health sciences., (© 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Lung transplantation is assumed to normalize essential fatty acid (EFA) profile in the plasma, described as abnormal in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). This study sought to evaluate the EFA profile in both the plasma and erythrocyte membrane according to lung status by comparing CF patients with or without a lung transplant. A total of 50 homozygous F508del patients (33 CF patients [CF group] and 17 CF patients with a lung transplant [TX CF group]) were included. In comparison with the CF group, in the plasma, the levels of total n-3, α-linolenic, eicosapentaenoic, and docosahexaenoic acids were higher and the n-6/n-3 ratio was lower in the TX CF group. Yet, these differences were not observed in the erythrocyte membrane. This study supports that lung transplantation improves the EFA profile in the plasma but not in the erythrocyte membrane by means of the different mechanisms suggested in this article., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors state that they have no conflicts of interest to declare., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Lipids in human milk (HM) provide the majority of energy for developing infants, as well as crucial essential fatty acids (FA). The FA composition of HM is highly variable and influenced by multiple factors. We sought to increase understanding of the variation in HMFA profiles and their development over the course of lactation, and after term and preterm delivery, using a pooled data analysis., Objective: To review the literature and perform a pooled data analysis to qualitatively describe an extensive FA profile (36 FAs) in term and preterm colostrum, transitional - and mature milk up to 60 days postpartum., Design: A Medline search was conducted for HMFA profile data following term or preterm delivery. The search was confined to English language papers published between January 1980 and August 2018. Studies reporting original data, extensive FA profiles in HM from healthy mothers were included. Weighted least squares (WLS) means were calculated from the pooled data using random or fixed effect models., Results: Our pooled data analysis included data from 55 studies worldwide, for a total of 4374 term milk samples and 1017 preterm milk samples, providing WLS means for 36 FAs. Patterns in both term and preterm milk were apparent throughout lactation for some FAs: The most abundant FAs (palmitic, linoleic and oleic acid) remained stable over time, whereas several long-chain polyunsaturated FAs (including ARA and DHA) seemed to decrease and short- and medium-chain FAs increased over time., Conclusions: High heterogeneity between individual studies was observed for the reported levels of some FAs, whereas other FAs were remarkably consistent between studies. Our pooled data suggests that specific FA categories fluctuate according to distinct patterns over the course of lactation; many of these patterns are comparable between term and preterm milk., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest At the time of writing all authors were employees of Danone Nutricia Research., (Copyright © 2019 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Dietary carbon sources in headwater stream food webs are divided into allochthonous and autochthonous organic matters. We hypothesized that: 1) the dietary allochthonous contribution for fish in headwater stream food webs positively relate with canopy cover; and 2) essential fatty acids originate from autochthonous organic matter regardless of canopy covers, because essential fatty acids, such as 20:5ω3 and 22:6ω3, are normally absent in allochthonous organic matters. We investigated predatory fish Salvelinus leucomaenis stomach contents in four headwater stream systems, which are located in subarctic region in northern Japan. In addition, stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios, fatty acid profile, and stable carbon isotope ratios of essential fatty acids were analyzed. Bulk stable carbon analysis showed the major contribution of autochthonous sources to assimilated carbon in S. leucomaenis. Surface baits in the stomach had intermediate stable carbon isotope ratios between autochthonous and allochthonous organic matter, indicating aquatic carbon was partly assimilated by surface baits. Stable carbon isotope ratios of essential fatty acids showed a positive relationship between autochthonous sources and S. leucomaenis across four study sites. This study demonstrated that the main supplier of dietary carbon and essential fatty acids was autochthonous organic matter even in headwater stream ecosystems under high canopy cover.

Industrial processing of raspberries into juice and jam results in the production of with high content of lipophilic and hydrophilic phytochemicals. Usually considered as waste, raspberry pomace is occasionally cold-pressed to recover specialty oil. However, the resulting pomace press-cake (PPC) still contains 30% to 35% of lipophilic compounds, such as essential fatty acids, tocols, phytosterols, and ellagitannins initially present in pomace. In a perspective of sustainable development, we investigate an eco-friendly process using an aqueous enzyme-assisted extraction (AEAE) to simultaneously and effectively recover lipophilic compounds and polyphenols from the PPC. The performance of different combinations of carbohydrases and proteases was compared. After selecting the best enzymatic system, a definitive screening design involving six factors was then implemented to optimize the process. Under optimized conditions, 1.2 units of thermostable alkaline protease/100 g PPC, pH 9, 60 °C, and 2 hr hydrolysis, more than 38% of total PPC lipophilic content were recovered in the aqueous medium. The recovery of polyphenols and antioxidant activity was, respectively, 48% and 25% higher than obtained by extraction with methanol/acetone/water mixture. Such an AEAE extract might prove useful in food and nutraceutical applications. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Raspberry pomace, a food industrial by-product, is often considered as waste. However, it is a rich source of phytochemicals, such as tocols, polyphenols, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. To overcome the drawbacks of organic solvent use, an enzyme-assisted extraction process was developed as an eco-friendly alternative to recover these bioactive compounds. Definitive screening design experimental design was used to enhance polyphenols and lipophilics extraction yields while reducing process costs. This extract is an oil-in-water emulsion, with high content in antioxidant phytochemicals, which might have potential for use in nutraceutical applications. Therefore, this green process developed for the valorization of raspberry pomace is considered as a perspective of sustainable development., (© 2019 Institute of Food Technologists®.)

The seeds of nine species belonging to the Fabaceae family (Cassia alata, Cassia uniflora, Cassia obtusifolia, Cassia tora, Crotalaria albida, Crotalaria juncea, Crotalaria pallida, Indigofera tinctoria, and Tephrosia purpurea) were studied. The oil yield ranged from 2.0 to 9.6% dw, in the seeds of I. tinctoria and T. purpurea, respectively. The unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) were the predominant group of fatty acids (41-74%) in the investigated samples. The sum of tocopherol homologues α and γ constituted 90-100% of total tocochromanols identified in each species. The β-sitosterol, campesterol, and Δ5-stigmasterol were the main sterols in most of the samples, however, in some of the seeds considerable levels of Δ5-avenasterol, Δ5,24-stigmastadienol, 24-ethylcholest-7-en-3beta-ol, and cycloartenol were also determined. Although the studied seeds were marked by relatively low yield of oil, the predomination of UFA, as well as relevant quantities of tocochromanols, carotenoids, sterols, and squalene (144.3-444.8, 4.1-43.1, 603.2-2590.2, and 0-88.1 mg/100 g oil, respectively), thus, the studied seeds can be considered as an alternative source of valuable ingredients for human nutrition.

Purpose: Essential fatty acids play a critical role in the growth and development of infants, but little is known about the fatty acid status of populations in low-income countries. The objective was to describe the fatty acid composition of red blood cells (RBC) in breastfeed Nepali infants and a subsample of their mothers and to identify the main sources of fatty acids in the mother's diet, as well as the fatty acid composition of breast milk., Methods: RBC fatty acid composition was analyzed in a random sample of 303 infants and 72 mother, along with 68 breastmilk samples. Fatty acid profiles of the most important dietary fat sources were analyzed. Information on mother's diet and intake of fat was collected by three 24-h dietary recalls., Results: In infant RBC's, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was the main n-3 fatty acid, and arachidonic acid (AA) was the major n-6 fatty acid. Total n-6 PUFA was three times higher than total n-3 PUFA. Height-for-age (HAZ) was positively associated with DHA status and AA status in multivariable models. The concentration of all fatty acids was higher in children, compared to mothers, except Total n-6 PUFA and Linoleic acid (LA) where no differences were found. The mother's energy intake from fat was 13% and cooking oil (sesame, mustard, soybean or sunflower oil) contributed 52% of the fat intake., Conclusions: RBC-DHA levels in both infants and mother was unexpected high taking into account few dietary DHA sources and the low DHA concentrations in breastmilk.

The importance of dietary lipids during childhood is evident, as they are necessary for correct growth and development of the newborn. When breastfeeding is not possible, infant formulas are designed to mimic human milk as much as possible to fulfill infant's requirements. However, the composition of these dairy products is relatively constant, while human milk is not a uniform bio-fluid and changes according to the requirements of the baby. In this study, breast milk samples were donated by 24 Spanish mothers in different lactation stages and different infant formulas were purchased in supermarkets and pharmacies. Gas chromatography coupled to flame ionization detection was used for the fatty acid determination. Compared to breast milk, first-stage formulas are apparently very similar in composition; however, no major differences were observed in the fatty acid profiles between formulas of different lactation stages. The Galician women breast milk has a fatty acid profile rich in oleic acid, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid. When comparing human milk with formulas, it becomes evident that the manufacturers tend to enrich the formulas with essential fatty acids (especially with α-linolenic acid), but arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acid levels are lower than in breast milk. Additionally, the obtained results demonstrated that after 1 year of lactation, human milk is still a good source of energy, essential fatty acids, and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids for the baby.

The objective of this work was to produce structured lipids (SLs) from olive oil (O), soybean oil (S), and fully hydrogenated crambe oil - FHCO (C) mixtures by enzymatic interesterification, comparing Lipozyme TL IM and Rhizopus sp. performances as catalysts, and to evaluate their physical and chemical modifications. Among other blends (OC 90:10 w/w and SC 90:10 w/w), OSC (45:45:10, w/w), presented the most nutritionally interesting amounts of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as behenic acid. Interesterification caused an increase in crystallization time and a decrease in the solid fat content in all blends. The fatty acid redistribution in the TAGs caused a change in thermal behavior, leading to a decrease in the onset and end temperatures during crystallization, which indicates that new TAGs were formed. Regarding regiospecificity, Lipozyme TL IM lipase acted randomly, while Rhizopus sp. lipase was specific for the sn-1,3 position. Therefore, it was possible to synthesize SLs presenting different physical and chemical properties, compared to the original OSC blend, containing behenic acid at the sn-1,3 position and unsaturated fatty acids at the sn-2 position, by enzymatic interesterification catalyzed either by Lipozyme TL IM or by Rhizopus sp. lipases., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Fatty acid (FA) and element contents were studied in 14 brands of canned (in its own juice and with sunflower oil) saury (Cololabis saira), a popular product of Russian market. Canned saury is a valuable source of essential polyunsaturated FA - eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3). To obtain personal daily dose of EPA + DHA of 1 g for prevention of cardiovascular diseases, neural and inflammatory disorders one needs to intake from 26 to 76 g of canned saury, as was calculated for studied brands. ICP-OES analysis of 24 elements showed that Pb concentration in one brand and Cd content in most of studied saury samples exceeded standards for fish meat established by the European Commission. However, values of hazard quotient, HQ EFA, which estimate benefit-risk ratio of fish intake, indicate that canned saury is safe product for human nutrition., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background & Aims: Olive oil (OO), medium-chain triglycerides (MCT)/long-chain triglycerides (LCT) mixture and soybean oil (SO) lipid emulsions are currently used for preterm infants in China. The aim of our study was to compare the lipid profile, fatty acid composition, and antioxidant capacity of preterm infants administered OO, MCT/LCT, or SO lipid emulsions., Methods: In this study, 156 preterm infants (birth weight < 2000 g and gestational age < 37 weeks) received parenteral nutrition (PN) containing OO, MCT/LCT, or SO lipid emulsions for a minimum of 14 d. On days 0, 7, and 14, the lipid profile, fatty acid composition and antioxidant capacity were analyzed., Results: On day 7, HDL levels in the MCT/LCT group were significantly lower than in the OO (1.06 ± 0.40 mmol/L) or SO groups. LDL levels were higher in the OO group than in the MCT/LCT or SO groups on day 7. A-I/B was higher in MCT/LCT than in OO or SO groups. Myristic acid (C14:0) levels on days 7 and 14 increased in MCT/LCT compared to the OO and SO groups. The OO group had higher oleic acid (C18:1n9) levels than the two other groups. Linoleic acid (C18:2n6), linolenic acid (C18:3n3), and eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n3) were significantly lower in the OO group than in MCT/LCT or SO groups. Monounsaturated fatty acid levels decreased, and ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid and essential fatty acids levels increased in MCT/LCT and SO groups. No significant differences were obtained in SOD, MDA, GSH-Px, and T-AOC among the groups., Conclusion: The three lipid emulsions were safe and well tolerated in preterm infants. Oleic acid (C18:1n9) levels increased and LA (C18:2n6), ALA (C18:3n3), and EPA (C20:5n23) levels decreased in OO compared to MCT/LCT or SO., Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT01683162, https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.)

Essential fatty acids (EFA) such as α-linolenic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA) are needed for healthy growth and development of children. Worldwide, reliable intake data of EFA are often lacking. The objective of this study was to investigate dietary intake of EFA in Indonesian children. Dietary intake data of 4-12-year-old children (n 45,821) from a nationally representative Indonesian survey were used to estimate median intake and distribution of population fatty acid intake. Missing data on individual fatty acids in the Indonesian food composition table were complemented through chemical analyses of national representative food samples and imputation of data from the US nutrient database. Nutrient adequacy ratios were calculated as a percentage of FAO/WHO intake recommendations. The medians of total fat intake of the children was 26·7 (10th-90th percentile 11·2-40·0) percentage of total daily energy (%E). Intakes of fatty acids were 4·05 (10th-90th percentile 1·83-7·22) %E for total PUFA, 3·36 (10th-90th percentile 1·14-6·29) %E for LA and 0·20 (10th-90th percentile 0·07-0·66) %E for ALA. Median intake of PUFA was 67 % and that of ALA 40 % of the minimum amounts recommended by FAO/WHO. These data indicate that a majority of Indonesian children has intakes of PUFA and specifically ALA that are lower than recommended intake levels. Total fat and LA intakes may be suboptimal for a smaller yet considerable proportion of children. Public health initiatives should provide practical guidelines to promote consumption of PUFA-rich foods.

Recently, there has been multi-agency promotion of entomophagy as an environmentally-friendly source of food for the ever increasing human population especially in the developing countries. However, food quality and safety concerns must first be addressed in this context. We addressed these concerns in the present study using the edible stink bug Encosternum delegorguei, which is widely consumed in southern Africa. We analysed for mycotoxins, and health beneficials including antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids using liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (LC-Qtof-MS) and coupled gas chromatography (GC)-MS. We also performed proximate analysis to determine nutritional components. We identified the human carcinogen mycotoxin (aflatoxin B1) at low levels in edible stink bugs that were stored in traditonally woven wooden dung smeared baskets and gunny bags previously used to store cereals. However, it was absent in insects stored in clean zip lock bags. On the other hand, we identified 10 fatty acids, of which 7 are considered essential fatty acids for human nutrition and health; 4 flavonoids and 12 amino acids of which two are considered the most limiting amino acids in cereal based diets. The edible stink bug also contained high crude protein and fats but was a poor source of minerals, except for phosphorus which was found in relatively high levels. Our results show that the edible stink bug is a nutrient- and antioxidant-rich source of food and health benefits for human consumption. As such, use of better handling and storage methods can help eliminate contamination of the edible stink bug with the carcinogen aflatoxin and ensure its safety as human food.

The objective was to determine safety and efficacy of health supplements "Beyond Tangy Tangerine," a multivitamin/mineral complex and combination of multivitamin/mineral complex, "Osteofx," a bone healthy supplement and "Ultimate Essential Fatty Acids" in Sprague Dawley rats consuming high-fat diets. Initially a pilot study was conducted which confirmed palatability and acceptability of supplements. In a second study, rats (n = 15/group) were randomized to Control; Multivitamin/mineral complex (2 g/kg BW) or Combination (2 g Multivitamin/mineral complex, 1.5 g Bone healthy supplement and 0.34 g Essential fatty acids/kg BW). No differences were observed in BW change, feed intake, organ weights or bone mineral composition with supplementations compared to control. Multivitamin/mineral complex supplementation decreased abdominal white adipose tissue weights (WAT) (p = .005), total (p = .033) and fat mass (p = .040), plasma IL-6 (p = .016) and ALKP (p = .038) and elevated plasma calcium (p < .001), phosphorus (p = .038), total protein (p = .002), albumin (p = .014) and globulin (p = .018), compared to control. Similarly, combination supplementation reduced WAT (p < .001), total (p = .023) and fat mass (p = .045), plasma triglycerides (p = .018), IL-6 (p = .002) and ALKP (p < .001) with increases in plasma calcium (p = .031), phosphorus (p < .001) compared to control. Results indicate that consuming either supplement can be considered safe and improves overall health by reducing inflammation, abdominal fat mass and plasma triglycerides, as well as promote bone health.

The International Lipid-Based Nutrient Supplements (iLiNS) Project began in 2009 with the goal of contributing to the evidence base regarding the potential of lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNS) to prevent undernutrition in vulnerable populations. The first project objective was the development of acceptable LNS products for infants 6-24 months and for pregnant and lactating women, for use in studies in three countries (Burkina Faso, Ghana and Malawi). This paper shares the rationale for a series of decisions in supplement formulation and design, including those related to ration size, ingredients, nutrient content, safety and quality, and packaging. Most iLiNS supplements have a daily ration size of 20 g and are intended for home fortification of local diets. For infants, this ration size is designed to avoid displacement of breast milk and to allow for dietary diversity including any locally available and accessible nutrient-dense foods. Selection of ingredients depends on acceptability of flavour, micronutrient, anti-nutrient and essential fatty acid contents. The nutrient content of LNS designed to prevent undernutrition reflects the likelihood that in many resource-poor settings, diets of the most nutritionally vulnerable individuals (infants, young children, and pregnant and lactating women) are likely to be deficient in multiple micronutrients and, possibly, in essential fatty acids. During ingredient procurement and LNS production, safety and quality control procedures are required to prevent contamination with toxins or pathogens and to ensure that the product remains stable and palatable over time. Packaging design decisions must include consideration of product protection, stability, convenience and portion control., (© 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

We supplemented marigold flower-powder (MFP) in rice bran tea at different proportions as a source of natural antioxidant compounds. Changes of phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, fatty acid composition and lipid oxidation in the rice bran tea with MFP after 30 days of storage were investigated, comparing results with the initial data. Adding MFP in rice bran tea resulted in an increased content and composition of phenolics and flavonoids along with enhanced antioxidant activities, which were increased in a dose-dependent manner. As a result, MFP supplementation of rice bran tea was able to retard the lipid oxidation as determined by the peroxide value (PV), due to the protection of essential fatty acids during 30 days of storage. The PVs were strongly negatively correlated (p < 0.01) with phenolic compounds, total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), but were positively correlated with tocopherols and γ-oryzanol contents. We also found that the PV was positively correlated with the PUFA (poly unsaturated fatty acid) content but adverse results were found for SFA (saturated fatty acid) and MUFA (mono unsaturated fatty acid) contents. These findings suggest that MFP could be used as a natural antioxidant in foods for preventing lipid oxidation as well as extending the shelf-life of food products.

Mulberries are a widely cultivated foodstuff both in China and worldwide. However, there are stark differences in the nutritional values of mulberry species. To better appreciate these differences, we here describe the chemical characteristics of white (Morus alba L.), Russian (M. alba var. tatarica L.), and black (Morus nigra L.) mulberry fruits cultivated in the Xinjiang province of China. The chemical composition analysis was performed by official methods procedures. The amino acids were analysed by the phenyl isothiocyanate method. The 2,6-dichloroindophenol titrimetric method, the aluminium chloride colorimetric method, and the pH differential method were also used in measuring the content of reduced ascorbic acid, total flavonoids, and total monomeric anthocyanins, respectively. The black mulberry fruits had the highest content of reduced ascorbic acid (48.4 mg/100 g fw), titratable acidity (47.1 mg/g fw), and Fe (11.9 mg/100 g fw) of these 3 species. The Russian mulberry fruits had the highest EAA/TAA (essential amino acid/total amino acid) ratio at 44% followed by the white mulberry (42%) and the black mulberry (29%). The black mulberry fruits had found to be richest in terms of total flavonoids and total monomeric anthocyanins. These results are helpful for selecting mulberry species with abundant nutrients and phytochemicals for commercial cultivation., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Lipid emulsions (LEs) used in modern parenteral nutrition formulations are indispensable sources of calories and (essential) fatty acids ((E)FAs). Several generations of LEs based on various FA sources have been developed, and issues related to their safe use deserve attention. The relevant issues concern LE composition, stability and sterility, while other problems are related to the lipid infusion rate, including hypertriglyceridemia and lipid overload syndrome. The FA structure of LEs translates into effects on inflammatory processes and immune cell function and affects the functions of organs, such as the liver and lungs. In addition, disturbed balances of (anti)oxidants and the presence of other bioactive agents in LEs, such as phytosterols, are mechanisms that may underlie the potential adverse effects. Lipid emulsions (LEs) are key components of parenteral nutrition (PN) that bypass the need for (essential) fatty acids ((E)FAs) and provide sufficient energy to decrease the need for the infusion of large amounts of dextrose, thus preventing its associated complications. The oldest available LEs are based on soybean oil (SO-LE) and meet these requirements. (Pre)clinical evidence suggests that various, next-generation LEs based on alternative oil sources are safe and effective; particularly, those based on fish oil (FO-LEs) have less pro-inflammatory characteristics that may convey beneficial effects on the immune system and organ functions. With the exception of decreased liver damage with the use of FO-LEs instead of SO-LEs, the clinical relevance of many of these data needs further validation., (© 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Background: Methylmercury, a worldwide contaminant of fish and seafood, can cause adverse effects on the developing nervous system. However, long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in seafood provide beneficial effects on brain development. Negative confounding will likely result in underestimation of both mercury toxicity and nutrient benefits unless mutual adjustment is included in the analysis., Methods: We examined these associations in 176 Faroese children, in whom prenatal methylmercury exposure was assessed from mercury concentrations in cord blood and maternal hair. The relative concentrations of fatty acids were determined in cord serum phospholipids. Neuropsychological performance in verbal, motor, attention, spatial, and memory functions was assessed at 7 years of age. Multiple regression and structural equation models (SEMs) were carried out to determine the confounder-adjusted associations with methylmercury exposure., Results: A short delay recall (in percent change) in the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT) was associated with a doubling of cord blood methylmercury (-18.9, 95% confidence interval [CI]=-36.3, -1.51). The association became stronger after the inclusion of fatty acid concentrations in the analysis (-22.0, 95% confidence interval [CI]=-39.4, -4.62). In structural equation models, poorer memory function (corresponding to a lower score in the learning trials and short delay recall in CVLT) was associated with a doubling of prenatal exposure to methylmercury after the inclusion of fatty acid concentrations in the analysis (-1.94, 95% CI=-3.39, -0.49)., Conclusions: Associations between prenatal exposure to methylmercury and neurobehavioral deficits in memory function at school age were strengthened after fatty acid adjustment, thus suggesting that n-3 fatty acids need to be included in analysis of similar studies to avoid underestimation of the associations with methylmercury exposure., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Maternal nutrition has little or no effect on many nutrients in human milk; for others, human milk may not be designed as a primary nutritional source for the infant; and for a few, maternal nutrition can lead to substantial variations in human milk quality. Human milk fatty acids are among the nutrients that show extreme sensitivity to maternal nutrition and are implicated in neurological development. Extensive development occurs in the infant brain, with growth from ∼ 350 g at birth to 925 g at 1 y, with this growth including extensive dendritic and axonal arborization. Transfer of n-6 (omega-6) and n-3 (omega-3) fatty acids from the maternal diet into human milk occurs with little interconversion of 18:2n-6 to 20:4n-6 or 18:3n-3 to docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and little evidence of mammary gland regulation to maintain individual fatty acids constant with varying maternal fatty acid nutrition. DHA has gained attention because of its high concentrations and roles in the brain and retina. Studies addressing DHA intakes by lactating women or human milk amounts of DHA at levels above those typical in the United States and Canada on infant outcomes are inconsistent. However, separating effects of the fatty acid supply in gestation or in the weaning diet from effects on neurodevelopment solely due to human milk fatty acids is complex, particularly when neurodevelopment is assessed after the period of exclusive human milk feeding. Information on infant fatty acid intakes, including milk volume consumed and energy density, will aid in understanding of the human milk fatty acids that best support neurological development.

The phospholipid molecular species and the main peptide molecules of wheat sprout hydroalcoholic extract have been fully characterized by normal-phase high performance liquid chromatography coupled online with positive electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. The extract that resulted was rich in phospholipid molecular species formed by the combination of the two essential fatty acids (α-linoleic and α-linolenic). These species accounted for 51.7% of total phosphatidic acid, 47.3% of total phosphatidylethanolamine, 37.7% of total phosphatidylcholine, and 14.1% of total phosphatidylinositol. The last one showed the highest amounts of species containing palmitic acid, thus representing the most saturated phospholipid class. The extract was also shown to contain several peptide sequences with both potential antioxidant domains and interaction sites for phospholipids (i.e., H-Ala-Gly-Ser-Met-Met-Cys-NH2, H-Tyr-Met-Thr-Val-Val-Ala-Cys-NH2, etc.); this latter finding can have a highly positive impact on the poor peptides bioavailability. Because of the presence of essential fatty acids-rich phospholipids and bioactive peptides, wheat sprout hydroalcoholic extract can be considered a potential functional food ingredient.

The chemical composition of the tiger's milk mushroom (Lignosus rhinocerotis) from different developmental stages, i.e., the fruit body, sclerotium, and mycelium, was investigated for the first time. The fruit body and sclerotium of L. rhinocerotis were rich in carbohydrates and dietary fibers but low in fat. Protein levels in L. rhinocerotis were moderate, and all essential amino acids, except tryptophan, were present. The mycelium contained high levels of potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, riboflavin, and niacin and appreciable amounts of essential fatty acids. The results indicated that the sclerotium of L. rhinocerotis that was used in ethnomedicine was not superior to the fruit body and mycelium with regard to the nutritional content and bioactive constituents. Our findings provide some insights into the selection of appropriate mushroom part(s) of L. rhinocerotis and proper cultivation techniques for the development of new nutraceuticals or dietary supplements.

The aim was to evaluate smoked blood sausage prepared using goat blood (50%), viscera (10%) and meat fragments (20%). Microbiological, chemical and sensory evaluations were conducted. The quality analyses showed that smoked goat blood sausage is rich in high biological value proteins, amino acids, essential fatty acids, and iron (26.65mg/100g). The smoked goat blood sausage was rated to have a sensory acceptance of greater than 80%. The use of edible by-products from the slaughter of goats in the formulation of smoked blood sausage is viable because it uses low-cost raw materials; furthermore, the utilisation of these by-products can generate income for producers, allowing them to offer a meat product of high nutritional and sensory quality., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

This study investigated the fatty acid composition of lipid present in breast milk of mothers residing in urban and suburban regions of West Bengal with special emphasis on n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which played a crucial role in the growth and development of neonates. Milk samples collected from 135 mothers of middle income group (average monthly income around 'Rs 10,000/-') were analysed by gas liquid chromatography after extraction and transmethylation to determine fatty acid composition. Information about the dietary intake of individual mothers was obtained through food frequency questionnaire. The fractions of n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids available in milk of urban mothers were 13.59 ± 0.94 and 3.65 ± 0.49, respectively, and in suburban mothers 12.74 ± 0.89 and 4.36 ± 0.39, respectively. The green leafy vegetables, fishes and vegetable oils were the major sources of essential fatty acids in the diet of the experimental groups of Bengali mothers. This study revealed a relationship between the alimentary habits of mothers and the concentration of essential fatty acids in breast milk of Bengali mothers.

Breast milk fatty acid (FA) composition varies greatly among individual women, including in percentages of the long-chain polyunsaturated FAs (LCPUFA) 20:4n-6 (arachidonic acid, AA) and 22:6n-3 (docosahexaenoic acid, DHA), which are important for infant neurological development. It has been suggested that owing to wide variation in milk LCPUFA and low DHA in Western diets, standards of milk FA composition should be derived from populations consuming traditional diets. We collected breast milk samples from Tsimane women at varying lactational stages (6-82 weeks). The Tsimane are an indigenous, natural fertility, subsistence-level population living in Amazonia Bolivia. Tsimane samples were matched by lactational stage to samples from a US milk bank, and analysed concurrently for FA composition by gas-liquid chromatography. We compared milk FA composition between Tsimane (n = 35) and US (n = 35) mothers, focusing on differences in LCPUFA percentages that may be due to population-typical dietary patterns. Per total FAs, the percentages of AA, DHA, total n-3 and total n-6 LCPUFA were significantly higher among Tsimane mothers. Mean percentages of 18:2n-6 (linoleic acid) and trans FAs were significantly higher among US mothers. Tsimane mothers' higher milk n-3 and n-6 LCPUFA percentages may be due to their regular consumption of wild game and freshwater fish, as well as comparatively lower intakes of processed foods and oils that may interfere with LCPUFA synthesis., (© 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.)

The Amatungula fruit, from Carissa macrocarpa, is commonly consumed by the local people of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa. Levels of elements in the fruit were determined to assess if they conform to recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) and to assess for potential toxicities. Soils and fruit samples from nine sites in eastern KZN were investigated. Concentrations of elements in the fruit were found to be in the order of Ca>Mg>Fe>Mn≈Cu≈Pb>Se>Cr>Ni>Zn. For the elements in focus, except for Pb, all of the elements found in the fruit contribute significantly towards the RDAs. Lipid profiling was also done to determine the fruits potential as a source of essential fatty acids. The fruit was rich in monounsaturated and essential fatty acids with the linoleic acid to α-linolenic acid ratio conforming to the recommended range for cardiac health. Concentrations of elements in soil had no significant effect on plant concentrations, but competition between elements in soil influenced their availability. Total soil concentrations of most metals studied have significantly correlated Pb availability, indicating the impact of these metals on Pb availability. The Amatungula fruit showed tendency to accumulate Pb, with Pb levels in fruit at all sites being toxic to human health. Site location had a major effect on plant concentrations however uptake and distribution was primarily dependent on the plants inherent controls, as evidenced by the accumulation and exclusion of elements, to meet its physiological requirements., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The continued increase in human population has resulted in the rise in the demand as well as the price of edible oils, leading to the search for alternative unconventional sources of oils, particularly in the developing countries. There are hundreds of un- or underexplored plant seeds rich in oil suitable for edible or industrial purposes. Many of them are rich in polyunsaturated essential fatty acids, which establish their utility as "healthy oils." Some agrowaste products such as rice bran have gained importance as a potential source of edible oil. Genetic modification has paved the way for increasing the oil yields and improving the fatty acid profiles of traditional as well as unconventional oilseeds. Single cell oils are also novel sources of edible oil. Some of these unconventional oils may have excellent potential for medicinal and therapeutic uses, even if their low oil contents do not promote commercial production as edible oils., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Vegetable oils are important sources of essential fatty acids. It is, therefore, important to characterize plant species that can be used as new oil sources. This study aimed to characterize the oils from guariroba (Syagrus oleracea), jerivá (Syagrus romanzoffiana), and macaúba (Acrocomia aculeata). The physicochemical characterization was performed using official analytical methods for oils and fats, free fatty acids, peroxide value, refractive index, iodine value, saponification number, and unsaponifiable matter. The oxidative stability was determined using the Rancimat at 110 °C. The fatty acid composition was performed by gas chromatography. The results were submitted to Tukey's test for the medium to 5% using the ESTAT program. The pulp oils were more unsaturated than kernel oils, as evidenced by the higher refractive index and iodine value, especially the macaúba pulp oil which gave 1.4556 and 80 g I(2) /100 g, respectively, for these indices. The kernel oils were less altered by oxidative process and had high induction period, free fatty acids below 0.5%, and peroxide value around 0.19 meq/kg. The guariroba kernel oil showed the largest induction period, 91.82 h. Practical Application:  The vegetable oils, besides being consumed directly as food, are important raw material for the chemical, pharmaceutical, and food industries. In recent years, the world market of vegetable oils has been characterized by stronger growth of demand over supply. Several species of palm trees are shown to be promising sources of oils. The characterization of oils extracted from some species, such as guariroba, jerivá, and macaúba, has not yet been fully elucidated. For this reason, it becomes important to investigate the physicochemical characterization of these oils, aiming at a possible use in food or in the industry., (© 2011 Institute of Food Technologists®)

Background: The stage of fruit ripeness at the time of harvest determines the final quality of ripe fruit. In this study, changes in the chemical composition of seed kernels from the oleaginous gourd Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl. during maturation were evaluated to determine the best time to harvest the berries. Two cultivars (round and oval berry) were studied at three maturation stages (30 and 50 days after fruit set (DAFS) and complete plant whiteness (CPW))., Results: Seed kernels were rich in oil (527.2-544.6 g kg(-1)), protein (402.8-403.3 g kg(-1)), minerals and energy. Maturation influenced the chemical compounds of the two cultivars differently. Best quantities of these components were reached at 50 DAFS. However, protein bioavailability was better at 30 DAFS and CPW in the round and oval berry cultivars respectively. Lagenaria siceraria oils were of good quality, containing an abundance of essential fatty acids (647.2-667.0 g kg(-1))., Conclusion: Both cultivars of L. siceraria should be harvested at 50 DAFS owing to the good nutritional properties of their seeds and oils. However, to obtain best-quality proteins, round and oval berry cultivars should be harvested at 30 DAFS and CPW respectively. The results of this study will be useful in reducing the production time of fruits and improving the nutritional quality of their seeds., (Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry.)

Ansu apricots growing wild in north Xinjiang are recognised as being one of the major wild-plant resources in China. In order to improve the level of comprehensive utilisation and the number of cultivated apricot varieties, the chemical composition of ansu apricot oil was analysed by capillary GC-MS and elucidated based on the standard mass spectral data; the antioxidant activities were also evaluated. Seven components of ansu apricots oil were identified, and the total unsaturated fatty acid (FA) (TUFA) and total essential FA (TEFA) contents of the ansu apricot oil were found to be 90.35 g/100 g and 48.93 g/100 g, respectively. The scavenging capacity of the ansu apricots oil in the superoxide anion radical system and the hydroxyl radical system performed better than in the DPPH radical system. The IC₅₀ values of the ansu apricot oil for the superoxide anion radical system and the hydroxyl radical system were 0.15 mg mL⁻¹ and 0.30 mg mL⁻¹, respectively: stronger than that of the control (ascorbic acid). In the DPPH system, the IC₅₀ value of the ansu apricot oil was 0.50 mg mL⁻¹, and the IC₅₀ value of ascorbic acid was 0.30 mg mL⁻¹, but within the selected dosage, the highest scavenging capacity of ansu apricot oil was higher than the control. The results obtained in this study clearly suggest that ansu apricot oil is a natural source of antioxidants and could serve as a functional food ingredient with potential application in food products and thus provide related health benefits.

The abundance of 20- to 24-carbon fatty acids in omasal digesta of cows fed grass silage-based diets supplemented with 0 (Control) and 250 g/day of fish oil (FO) was examined to investigate the fate of long-chain unsaturated fatty acids in the rumen. Complimentary argentation thin-layer chromatography and gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry analysis of fatty acid methyl esters and corresponding 4,4-dimethyloxazoline derivatives prepared from fish oil and omasal digesta enabled the structure of novel 20- to 22-carbon fatty acids to be elucidated. Compared with the Control, the FO treatment resulted in the formation and accumulation of 27 novel 20- and 22-carbon biohydrogenation intermediates containing at least one trans double bond and the appearance of cis-14 20:1, 20:2n-3, 21:4n-3 and 22:3n-6 not contained in fish oil. No conjugated ≥ 20-carbon fatty acids were detected in Control or FO digesta. In conclusion, fish oil in the diet results in the formation of numerous long-chain biohydrogenation intermediates in the rumen of lactating cows. Comparison of the intake and flow of 20-, 21- and 22-carbon fatty acids at the omasum in cows fed the Control and FO treatments suggests that the first committed steps of 20:5n-3, 21:5n-3 and 22:6n-3 hydrogenation in the rumen involve the reduction and/or isomerisation of double bonds closest to the carboxyl group.

Maternal fat intake and adipose reserves are major sources of PUFA during lactation. The present study examined the cross-sectional relationship between prolonged breast-feeding and maternal BMI, assessed adequacy of fat intake among lactating and non-lactating mothers of children 24-48 months of age and determined breast-milk fatty acid composition. Multi-stage sampling was used to select a representative sample of mothers from two rural districts in Bangladesh (n 474). Dietary data were collected during two non-consecutive 24 h periods via 12 h in-home daytime observations and recall. The National Cancer Institute method for episodically consumed foods was used to estimate usual intake distributions. Breast milk samples were collected from ninety-eight women, and breast-milk fatty acid methyl esters were quantified using GC. Approximately 42 % of lactating v. 26 % of non-lactating mothers were underweight (BMI < 18·5 kg/m2; P = 0·0003). The maternal diet was low in total fat (approximately 8 % of mean total energy) and food sources of PUFA, including oil and animal source foods, resulting in a low estimated mean total consumption of PUFA (5·1 g/d). Almost all women were estimated to consume less than the recommended intake levels for total fat, total PUFA, α-linolenic acid (ALA) and DHA. Median breast-milk linoleic acid (8·5 % weight) and ALA (0·2 %) concentrations were among the lowest reported in the literature, in contrast with arachidonic acid (0·5 %) and DHA (0·3 %) concentrations, which were mid-range. Bangladeshi women in general, and especially those who practise prolonged breast-feeding, may benefit from increased consumption of food sources of PUFA.

Thirty male Merinizzata italiana lambs were divided into three groups after weaning according to live weight. The diet of the three groups differed in the main protein source used in the concentrate, soybean meal for treatment SBM, faba bean for treatment FB and peas for treatment PEA. Lambs were fed ad libitum and slaughtered at about 160 days of age. Meat from the PEA group had higher proportions of the essential fatty acids C18:2 ω-6 and C18:3 ω-3 than from FB and SBM lambs and consequently its derivatives, C20:4 ω-6 and C20:5 ω-3 respectively, were higher in meat from PEA animals, compared to SBM and FB ones. The total n-3 fatty acids were highest in meat from PEA lambs and consequently PEA lambs showed a more favourable n-6/n-3 ratio. In conclusion the use of legume seeds such as peas in lamb diets positively affected intramuscular fatty acid composition., (Copyright © 2010 The American Meat Science Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Progress in research on human lactation and breast milk has advanced our knowledge about the significance of breast milk for the recipient infant and the effects of various components on long-term outcomes. Recent findings have expanded our knowledge in this area. Several growth factors and cytokines are present in breast milk and their capacity to persist in the infant gut and exert their activities is likely to affect maturation of immune function, possibly affecting the development of oral tolerance. A proper balance of polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3/n-6 ratio) may also be of significance for allergy prevention in children, emphasizing the need for the mother to achieve a balance of these fatty acids in her diet. The recent findings that specific strains of bacteria are present in breast milk and act as probiotics in the early colonization of the infant gut and that human milk oligosaccharides are specific substrates for these probiotic strains may not only affect the defense against pathogens, but also affect energy utilization and development of obesity. Previously neglected milk fat globule membranes contain several components involved in protection against infection and may be an additional arm in the multifaceted shield that breastfed infants have developed against bacterial and viral antagonists. All these findings have implications for development of improved infant formulae., (Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Although the fruit of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L. Fabaceae) is nutritious and widely available in Turkey, especially in West and South Anatolia, much remains to be learned about its nutrient composition. The main goal of our study was to determine if there are differences in the content of certain nutrients in commercially-prepared carob flour (CPCP) and domestic or home-prepared carob powder (HPCP). Sucrose was the main sugar in CPCP and HPCP. Total protein was 40% lower in CPCP than HPCP due mainly to decreases in the content of several essential amino acids. However, except for lysine in CPCP, HPCP and CPCP compared favourably to a WHO protein standard. There were large differences in terms of their content of the two essential fatty acids, linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid, and the linoleic acid/alpha-linolenic acid ratio was 3.6 for CPCP, and 6.1 for HPCP. Manganese and iron were 2.5-fold higher in HPCP than CPCP. This study demonstrates that carob flour prepared in either the household or industrially is a good source of many, but not all essential nutrients, and that commercial processing of carob fruit into flour seems to affect its content of several important nutrients.

Four out of eight 'healthier' oils-namely, almond oil, avocado oil, hazelnut oil and macadamia nut oil-studied were rich sources of monounsaturated fatty acids like olive oil. Grape seed oil, rice barn oil (marketed recently), toasted sesame oil and walnut oil contained high levels of essential fatty acids. The order of oxidative stability determined by Rancimat measuring of the induction period at four temperatures (90 degrees C, 100 degrees C, 110 degrees C, and 120 degrees C) was found to be macadamia oil > rice bran oil approximately toasted sesame oil > avocado oil > almond oil > hazelnut oil > grape seed oil > walnut oil. High-level monounsaturated fatty acid oils gave a linear relationship between 100 times the reciprocal of the induction period against the total unsaturated fatty acid content obtained as %C18:2 + 0.08 x C18:1 + 2.08 x %C18:3, while the polyunsaturated fatty acid oils gave an exponential relationship. In the case of rice bran and hazelnut oils, shelf-life prediction from the extrapolation of the Arrhenius plots and the Q(10) factors was compared well with that of storage time given by the oil producers. In the cases of the other oils (with an exception of macadamia nut oil), the predicted shelf-lives were significantly lower than that of the storage times; especially, walnut oil (very prone to oxidation) gave 15-20 times lower shelf-life than the best-before storage life.

The aims of the present study were to evaluate essential fatty acids (EFA) and long-chain PUFA (LCPUFA) status in lactating adolescents and its association with breast milk composition. Healthy nursing adolescents from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (n 30; 14-19 years; 30-120 d postpartum), exclusively or predominantly breast-feeding, participated in this study. Breast milk and blood samples were collected after overnight fasting. Fatty acid composition of breast milk, erythrocyte membrane (EM) and plasma NEFA were determined by GC. Indices of fatty acid status (mean melting point (MMP); EFA status index; DHA status indices, 22 : 5n-6:22 : 4n-6 and 22 : 6n-3:22 : 5n-6 ratios) were calculated from EM fatty acid composition. Dietary intake of n-3 fatty acids was low when compared with current recommendations for lactating women. MMP was associated with indices of DHA status, some individual fatty acids in EM and years post-menarche and weeks postpartum, suggesting the use of erythrocyte MMP as a possible comprehensive biochemical marker of LCPUFA status in this physiological condition. The DHA status of lactating adolescents and their milk DHA concentrations were similar to the values of Brazilian lactating adults, but lower compared with the values of lactating adults from other countries. Therefore, these lactating adolescents were apparently not disadvantaged, as compared with the Brazilian adults, when EM and breast milk fatty acid composition were considered. In general, PUFA in milk from adolescents presented few associations with their concentrations in plasma NEFA and with maternal status. However, milk DHA was associated with maternal LCPUFA and DHA states.

The Lipid Metabolites and Pathway Strategy (LIPID MAPS) Consortium is a nationwide initiative that has taken on the task of employing lipidomics to advance our understanding of lipid metabolism at the molecular and mechanistic level in living organisms. An important step toward this goal is to craft enabling analytical procedures to comprehensively measure all lipid species, to establish the precise structural identity of the lipid molecules analyzed, and to generate accurate quantitative information. The LIPID MAPS Consortium has succeeded in the implementation of a complete infrastructure that now provides tools for analysis of the global lipidome in cultured and primary cells. Here we illustrate the advancement of a gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS) procedure for the analysis of essential fatty acids in RAW 264.7 cells. Our method allows for the specific identification and quantification of over 30 fatty acids present in cells in their free form in a single analytical GC/MS run. Free fatty acids are selectively extracted in the presence of deuterated internal standards, which permit subsequent estimation of extraction efficiencies and quantification with high accuracy. Mass spectrometer conditions were optimized for single-ion monitoring, which provides an extremely sensitive technology to measure fatty acids from biological samples in trace amounts. These methods will be presented in the context of our broader effort to analyze all fatty acids as well as their metabolites in inflammatory cells.

We investigated seasonal variability of essential fatty acids (EFA) and methyl mercury (MeHg) concentrations in four size categories of planktonic organisms in two coastal lakes. MeHg concentrations increased significantly with increasing plankton size and were independent of plankton taxonomy. However, total EFA increased from seston to mesozooplankton, but decreased in the cladoceran-dominated macrozooplankton size-class. Analysis of EFA patterns revealed that linoleic, alpha-linolenic, arachidonic, and eicosapentaenoic acids increased with increasing zooplankton size, but docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the cladoceran-dominated macrozooplankton was generally lower than in seston. This consistent pattern demonstrates that cladocerans, although bioaccumulating MeHg, convey less DHA than similar-sized copepods to their consumers. It is thus evident that fish consuming cladocerans have restricted access to DHA, yet unrestricted dietary access to MeHg. Thus, the structure of planktonic food webs clearly affects the composition of EFA and regulates dietary supply of these essential nutrients, while MeHg bioaccumulates with increasing zooplankton size.

Seeds of 4 cultivars (M-1, M-6, NM-92, and NM-98) of mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] were investigated for proximate composition, antioxidant potential, fatty acids, tocopherols, and minerals profiles. Hexane-extracted seed oil content of the investigated cultivars of mungbeans ranged from 1.20% to 1.56%. Mungbean seeds were found to be a rich source of protein (20.97% to 31.32%). The contents of Fe, Cu, Mg, Na, K, Ca, and Zn were found to be 105.8 to 190.9, 4.8 to 6.3, 48.6 to 51.7, 382.6 to 562.7, 11.6 to 18.8, 359.2 to 482.9, and 24.9 to 47.2 mg/kg, respectively. The mungbean seeds contained linoleic acid in the highest amount, 340.5 to 465.7 mg/100 g of dry seed, followed by palmitic, oleic, linolenic, stearic, and arachidic acids: 278.1 to 401.2, 212.6 to 293.5, 188.7 to 236.8, 135.5 to 168.4, and 22.8 to 24.5 mg/100 g of dry seed, respectively. The seeds were found to be a rich source of tocopherols (alpha, gamma, delta) ranged from 1.1 to 10.1, 60.7 to 80.9, and 4.6 to 11.2 mg/kg, respectively. Methanolic extracts of the seeds of the mungbean cultivars exhibited a good antioxidant activity as determined in terms of measurement of total phenolic contents (TPC) (0.62 to 1.08 g/100 g of dry matter), percent inhibition of peroxidation (49.8% to 89.2%), reducing power (1.19% to 1.45%), and bleaching beta-carotene. The results of the present analytical study revealed these 4 mungbean cultivars to be a potential source of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, minerals and protein, all of which are linked with positive health benefits.

Background: Several observational studies indicate that trans isomeric fatty acids may interfere with the metabolism of essential fatty acids in the human organism., Objective: The objective was to investigate the relation between trans fatty acids and long-chain polyunsaturates in mature human milk., Design: Human milk samples (n=769) were obtained at the 6th week of lactation from mothers participating in a birth cohort study in Germany. The fatty acid composition of the milk samples was measured by high-resolution capillary gas-liquid chromatography., Results: trans Octadecenoic and trans octadecadienoic acids were inversely correlated with linoleic acid (r=-0.32 and -0.33, P<0.0001 for both), alpha-linolenic acid (r=-0.35 and -0.27, P<0.0001), arachidonic acid (r=-0.60 and -0.47, P<0.0001), and docosahexaenoic acid (r=-0.51 and -0.33, P<0.0001). In contrast, no inverse correlations were observed between trans hexadecenoic acid and polyunsaturated fatty acids., Conclusions: The data obtained in the present study suggest that the availability of 18-carbon trans isomeric fatty acids may be inversely related to the availability of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in mature human milk.