High Fiber Research Articles

Differential effects of dietary and physical activity interventions on adiposity of children with obesity.

Managing obesity in children remains challenging. In addition to body mass index (BMI), incorporating body composition into evaluations of post-obesity interventions would help assess changes in adiposity. This study aimed to identify the relationship between dietary intake, physical activity, and changes in BMI z-scores and adiposity among children with obesity. Children aged 7-15 years with obesity received monthly dietary and physical activity instructions for 6 months. Three-day dietary records and physical activity questionnaires were collected at 0, 3, and 6 months. Body composition was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. These relationships were analyzed using uni- and multivariate linear regression analyses. A total of 155 children with obesity completed the 6-month study. A higher total protein intake per ideal weight for height was significantly correlated with a decrease in BMI z-score and trunk fat mass index (trunk fat mass [FM] in kg/height in m2). Mean dietary fiber intake was negatively correlated with BMI z-score, FM, FM index (FMI, FM in kg/height in m2), and visceral fat area (VFA) at 6 months. Each 1 g/kg/day increase in protein intake and additional 1 g/day of dietary fiber intake led to a 0.191 kg/m2 (95% confidence interval [CI], -0.309 to -0.072) and 0.028 kg/m2 (-0.05 to -0.005) reduction in BMI z-score. Each 1 g/day increase in protein intake led to a reduction of 0.009 kg/m² in trunk FMI (-0.016 to -0.002) and 0.21 cm² in VFA (-0.418 to -0.002). The outcomes observed at 6 months were consistent with the overall 6-month findings, reinforcing the efficacy of the intervention. Our study showed beneficial effects of high dietary protein and fiber intakes on BMI z-scores and adiposity of children with obesity. Fine-tuning dietary interventions that emphasize appropriate protein and fiber intakes may be more practical for managing childhood obesity.

Pengomposan Beberapa Macam Hasil Samping Perkebunan Sawit (Tankos dan Daun) dengan Berbagai Dekomposer

ABSTRACT This research examines the potential of oil palm leaves as raw material for compost, carried out in Bandar Pasir Mandoge Village, North Sumatra, from March to May 2023, using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with two main factors: compost material and type of decomposer. The compost material consists of tankos, leaves, and a mixture of tankos+leaves, while the decomposer consists of decomposers D1, D2, and D3. The parameters measured include C/N ratio, weight loss, compost color, compost odor, compost pH value, compost temperature, compost humidity, and compost friability. The research results showed significant variations in C/N ratio values ​​for organic materials, with values ​​ranging from 12 to 38. Compost material from leaves with D1 decomposer achieved the lowest C/N ratio value, while tankos compost with D1 decomposer had the highest value. Decomposer D2 is more effective in speeding up the decomposition process compared to D1 and D3. The fastest compost shrinkage occurred in the treatment with D3 decomposer, while the longest shrinkage occurred in the treatment with D1 decomposer. This research supports the principles of sustainable agriculture by utilizing high fiber organic waste and reducing environmental pollution. Tankos organic material decomposes the fastest, and the D2 decomposer is more effective than other decomposers. There is a real interaction between organic materials and decomposers on compost quality. Keywords: Tankos, leaves, compost, decomposer

Nutritional Potency of Mangifera indica L. (Mango): Focus on Mango as Antioxidant

Background: Mango, known as "the king of fruits," is one of the most popular fruits on the planet. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and bioactive substances abound. Objective: In the present review, we aimed to explore the therapeutic effects of mango as an antioxidant. Methods: Scopus and ScienceDirect databases were used to gather research papers over the pre-vious 12 years. Results: Our research explores the formidable antioxidant potential of mango, driven by its ele-vated phenolic and flavonoid content. Within mango, crucial metabolites such as glutathione and euxanthone contribute significantly to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory prowess. A note-worthy bioactive compound, Mangiferin, found in mango, exhibits anti-diabetic properties by inhibiting sucrase and isomaltase, consequently reducing glucose absorption in the intestine. Conclusion: In our study, mango has demonstrated its ability to lower blood sugar levels, en-hance insulin production, and reduce lipid levels. These beneficial effects are attributed to high soluble fiber, polyphenols, and carotenoids, including quercetin and beta-carotene. Our findings shed light on the multifaceted health-promoting attributes of mango, positioning it as a valuable natural resource for potential dietary interventions and health enhancement. In conclusion, ef-fective blood sugar management hinges on strategic dietary decisions. Steering clear of high-glycemic combinations with mangoes, choosing daytime consumption, and integrating regular physical activity for energy equilibrium is paramount.

Impact of feeding a high fibre diet and roughage on motivation for feeding in fast-growing broiler breeder pullets

Impact of feeding a high fibre diet and roughage on motivation for feeding in fast-growing broiler breeder pullets

Ultra Processed Food Addiction among People: A Mini-Review of the Evidence

Background: According to the availability of various types of processed food products worldwide, the demand for their consumption has increased. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) containing high amounts of sodium, hydrogenated oils, and refined carbohydrates are triggers for activating the same neural pathways and act like drug abuse. On the other hand, changing the food environment is a key factor in obesity prevalence and its related outcomes. It may be attributed to addiction to foods that has also been called “eating dependence” which emphasizes the behavior, not the food itself. Food addiction is important for a better understanding of psychiatric and medical problems such as eating disorders, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Methods: In this mini-review, we will examine food addiction and the appropriate strategies for its management. Conclusion: Because food addiction has negative health consequences, strategies for reducing the accessibility of UPFs should be warranted. Also, high fiber intake and consumption of probiotic products should be considered. Further interventional studies are needed to manage this problem.

Simplicia quality analysis and phytochemical screening of red bracts of Kepok banana flower (Musa paradisiaca L.)

Background: The Kepok banana plant (Musa paradisiaca L.) has been processed into food preparations, empirically used as medicine, and as a cosmetic for hair and skin care. Kepok banana flowers have bracts and male flowers contain nutritional content, namely carbohydrates, protein, low fat, high fiber and also minerals such as phosphorus, iron and calcium) as well as vitamins A, B1 and vitamin C. To determine the potential of the red bracts of Kepok banana flowers as an efficacious ingredient in medical and cosmetic preparations, simplicia characteristics testing was carried out to determine the quality of simplicial and phytochemical screening to determine secondary metabolite compounds in plant. Objective: The aim of this research was to identify the characteristics of simplicia and screen phytochemicals in the red bracts of Kepok banana flowers (Musa paradisiaca L.). Method: This research was carried out experimentally in the Pharmaceutical and Chemical Technology laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Lincoln University College Malaysia. The red bracts of the Kepok banana flower (Musa paradisiaca L.) were dried by drying, protected from direct sunlight. Extract of the red bracts of the Kepok banana flower (Musa paradisiaca L.) was obtained using the Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction (UAE) method with 70% ethanol solvent. Results: Microscopic results of powder and fresh simplicia of red bracts of Kepok banana flowers (Musa paradisiaca L.) were obtained, epidermis fragments, xylem fibers, sclerenchyma fibers, anomocytic type stomata, endocarp and essential oil. The results of the simplicia quality inspection showed that the water soluble essence content was 37.15%, the ethanol soluble essence content was 16.57%, the water content was 5.31%, the total ash content was 9.04%. and the acid insoluble ash content was 2.42%. Phytochemical screening of the red bractea extract of Kepok banana flowers (Musa paradisiaca L.) obtained alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, tannins and triterpenoids/steroids. Conclusion: The results of the quality analysis of the simplicia red bracts of the Kepok banana flower (Musa paradisiaca L.) met the simplicia quality standards and the results of the phytochemical screening examination of the red bractea extract of the Kepok banana flower (Musa paradisiaca L.) contained alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, tannins and triterpenoids/steroids compounds.

High power cylindrical vector beam fiber laser by integrating oscillator and amplifier

High power cylindrical vector beam fiber laser by integrating oscillator and amplifier

Electrospun robust, biodegradable, bioactive, and nanostructured sutures to accelerate the chronic wound healing

The design and development of advanced surgical sutures with appropriate structure and abundant bio-functions are urgently required for the chronic wound closure and treatment. In this study, an integrated technique routine combining modified electrospinning with hot stretching process was proposed and implemented to fabricate poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) nanofiber sutures, and the Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge-Radix Puerariae herbal compound (SRHC) was encapsulated into PLLA nanofibers during the electrospinning process to enrich the biofunction of as-generated sutures. All the PLLA sutures loading without or with SRHC were found to exhibit bead-free and highly-aligned nanofiber structure. The addition of SRHC was found to have no significant influences on the fiber morphology, diameter, and the crystallinity of as-prepared PLLA sutures. Importantly, all the SRHC-contained PLLA nanofiber sutures possessed excellent tensile and knot strength, which were of significant importance for the surgical suture applications. Besides, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these sutures obviously enhanced with the increasing of SRHC concentration. Furthermore, thein vitrocell tests illustrated that the high fiber orientation of the sutures was able to efficiently induce the human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) to migrate in a rapid manner, and the sutures loaded with high content of SRHC could significantly promote the attachment and proliferation of HDFs in comparison. Thein vivodiabetic mouse model experiments revealed that all the as-developed PLLA sutures could effectively close the wound, but the PLLA sutures containing high content of SRHC could dramatically promote the wound healing with high quality by shortening the healing time, improving the collagen deposition, neovascularization, and the regeneration of hair follicles, especially compared with commercial polyester (PET) suture. This study offers a simple and easily-handling strategy to develop robust, biodegradable, bioactive, and nanostructured PLLA sutures, which shows huge potential for the treatment of hard-to-heal diabetic wounds.

Evolution of High-order Laser Array Locking in High Peak Power Fiber Lasers

Evolution of High-order Laser Array Locking in High Peak Power Fiber Lasers

Effects of Vegetable and Fruit Juicing on Gut and Oral Microbiome Composition

Background: In recent years, juicing has often been promoted as a convenient way to increase fruit and vegetable intake, with juice-only diets marketed for digestive cleansing and overall health improvement. However, juicing removes most insoluble fiber, which may diminish the health benefits of whole fruits and vegetables. Lower fiber intake can alter the microbiota, affecting metabolism, immunity, and mental health, though little is known about juicing’s specific effects on the microbiota. This study addresses this gap by exploring how juicing impacts gut and oral microbiome composition in an intervention study. Methods: Fourteen participants followed one of three diets—exclusive juice, juice plus food, or plant-based food—for three days. Microbiota samples (stool, saliva, and inner cheek swabs) were collected at baseline, after a pre-intervention elimination diet, immediately after juice intervention, and 14 days after intervention. Moreover, 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was used to analyze microbiota taxonomic composition. Results: The saliva microbiome differed significantly in response to the elimination diet (unweighted UniFrac: F = 1.72, R = 0.06, p < 0.005; weighted UniFrac: F = 7.62, R = 0.23, p-value = 0.0025) with a significant reduction in Firmicutes (p = 0.004) and a significant increase in Proteobacteria (p = 0.005). The juice intervention diets were also associated with changes in the saliva and cheek microbiota, particularly in the relative abundances of pro-inflammatory bacterial families, potentially due to the high sugar and low fiber intake of the juice-related products. Although no significant shifts in overall gut microbiota composition were observed, with either the elimination diet or the juice intervention diets, bacterial taxa associated with gut permeability, inflammation, and cognitive decline increased in relative abundance. Conclusions: These findings suggest that short-term juice consumption may negatively affect the microbiota.

A novel structure luminous flexible fiber was prepared via aerosol jet printing

Utilizing aerosol jet printing (AJP), this study achieves a breakthrough in fabricating luminescent fibers with superior optical performance and flexibility. The Y2O3:Eu3+ coated high silica glass fibers demonstrate luminous efficiency twice that of traditional methods, retaining 80% after 250 bending cycles and 90% after sweat immersion. This AJP technique not only elevates the potential of smart fabrics but also represents a significant innovation in lighting technology, providing new ideas for advanced functional fiber fabrication.

Nutritional Quality of Plant-Based Fish and Seafood Analogs: A Study of the Italian Market

Among plant-based analogs, fish and seafood analogs (PBFSAs) represent a growing sector. This study analyzed the nutritional quality of PBFSAs in Italy and compared it to their animal-based counterparts. Nutritional declarations, ingredient lists, and claims were collected from PBFSA food labeling. Nutri-Scores of PBSFAs and animal-based counterparts were also determined as nutritional quality indicators. Fifty-one products were collected, with most attributed to tuna, salmon, and cod categories (n = 18, 12, and 14, respectively). Results showed large heterogeneity in nutritional quality, with cod products having higher energy (217 (201–257) kcal/100 g), protein (10.5 (7.9–13.0) g/100 g), and carbohydrate (19.4 (14.2–26.0) g/100 g) levels, while tuna and salmon products had a higher fat content (15.0 (10.0–19.7) and 13.5 (5.0–17.0) g/100 g, respectively). Products with fiber or fat nutrition claims did not necessarily indicate higher fiber or lower fat content, while products with a protein claim had a higher protein content. Most animal-based counterparts, except cod and sturgeon caviar, received an “A” Nutri-Score, and often scored better than the PBSFA due to lower salt content. In conclusion, PBFSAs on the market should not be considered animal product analogs regarding nutritional quality, but drawing definitive conclusions is challenging due to the limited number and high variability of the products. However, these findings provide insights that may improve PBFSA nutritional quality, such as decreasing salt and sugar content, for people trying to incorporate such foods into their diet.

Deciphering the impact of dietary habits and behavioral patterns on colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a malignant tumor that originates from the epithelial cells of the colon and rectum. Global epidemiological data shows that in 2020, the incidence and mortality rate of CRC ranked third and second, respectively, posing a serious threat to people's health and lives. The factors influencing CRC are numerous and can be broadly categorized as modifiable and non-modifiable based on whether they can be managed or intervened upon. Non-modifiable factors include age, gender, family history, among others. Among the modifiable factors, dietary habits and behavioral practices are the main intervention measures that people can take to prevent CRC. Numerous studies indicate that a high intake of red and processed meats, fats, as well as habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and prolonged sitting, increase the risk of developing CRC. Conversely, consuming ample vegetables, fruits, high dietary fiber, and engaging in moderate regular exercise may reduce the risk of CRC. This article primarily discusses the impact of dietary habits and behavioral practices on the occurrence and development of CRC, along with possible mechanisms, laying the foundation and providing direction for the prevention and control of CRC occurrence and development.

Design of high nonlinear photonic crystal fiber for ultrashort pulse laser generation

Design of high nonlinear photonic crystal fiber for ultrashort pulse laser generation

Age-Dependent Flexural Properties of Fiber Reinforced Concrete Used in Thin Overlays

This paper presents measured age-dependent flexural properties of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) as are used in the design of thin overlay pavements. A laboratory investigation was performed to quantify the pavement design properties, particularly residual strength ratio of FRC as a function of age. Four different types of structural macro-fibers, made of steel or polypropylene, and of different lengths or aspect ratios were investigated. Also different fiber volume contents from 0%, 0.5%, and 1.0% were studied for all fiber types and ages. The results confirmed that there is a significant agedependency to the residual strength ratio. The short steel FRC at high fiber volume content was the only mixture which showed constant residual strength ratio as a function of time. All other FRC mixtures exhibited a reduced residual strength ratio when tested at later ages.

The development of protein biscuits for pets containing pro-teinrich baru residue (Dipterix alata Vog)

The objective of this work was to evaluate the chemical composition of by-product flours for the development of dog biscuits. 5 formulations were prepared with 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% replacement of baru by-product flours. Defatted pie flour contains high levels of protein (25.93 g 100 g-1) and lipids (24.89 g 100 g-1), but low in total fiber (6.15 g 100 g-1). Baru bark flour had low lipid (1.0 g 100 g-1) and protein (5.34 g 100 g-1) contents, but high total fiber content (59.67 g 100 g-1). The levels of total phenolic compounds vary from (14525 and 12532 mg EAG g 100 g-1) with emphasis on baru peel flour. The predominant nutrients in the cookies were carbohydrates (56.49 to 51.20 g 100 g-1 for cookies made with baru bark flour (BCB) 52.78 and 49.62 for cookies made with degreased pie flour baru (BTDB), followed by lipids (21.67-23.53 g 100 g-1 for BTDB and 19.05-22.33 g 100 g-1 for BCB) and protein (12.10-15.05 for BTDB g 100 g-1 and 11.23 and 12.19 for BCB g 100 g-1), the study highlights the importance of using by-products in the development of dog food products.

Optimizing Abrasive Water Jet Parameters for Enhanced Interactivity in Metal-Stacked Hybrid Fiber Laminates

High strength and shock-absorbing hybrid Fibre Laminate (HFL) machining is required to get the required geometric shape and size and to test the functioning under various impact protection circumstances. The compression molding process was adopted to fabricate the HFL. Skin titanium metal and alternately interlaced durable jute and high strength Kevlar fiber. A Central Composite Design (CCD)-Response Surface Technique (RST) was used to conduct the experiments with varying abrasive water jet parameters like WP-water pressure, TS-traverse speed, SOD-stand-off distance, and AQ-abrasive quantity. The desirability optimization technique adopted to minimize the surface roughness (Ra) and kerf angle (KA). An experimental examination shows that when water jet pressure was raised to its maximum value, the Ra and KA considerably reduced by 28.69% and 8.25%, respectively. Similar to how the Ra and KR significantly reduced by an extent of 7.4% and 3.5% when the abrasive quantity was increased to its higher value. However, when SOD and TS increased, a reversal impact on Ra and KA was seen. According to surface topology study, the brittle fracture occurs with micro-chipping, and for the kevlar fiber, bulk machining.

Coffee Pulp from Azores: A Novel Phytochemical-Rich Food with Potential Anti-Diabetic Properties.

Coffee pulp, a by-product of wet coffee processing, shows significant potential in the food and health domains, but its real applications remain underexplored. This work investigated the chemical composition and bioactive properties of coffee pulp from São Miguel Island (Azores, Portugal). The studied coffee pulp exhibited high fiber content (52% dw), mostly insoluble; notable mineral levels (10.6%), mainly K, Ca, and Mg; and 6% dw of total amino acids, with hydroxyproline, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and leucine in higher amounts. Despite containing low fat (1.6% dw), mainly saturated, it also showed considerable amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids with a favorable n6/n3 ratio (1.40) and vitamin E (α-, β-, and γ-tocopherols). Its antioxidant capacity can be partially explained by the chlorogenic acid content (9.2 mg/g dw), and caffeine (0.98%) was present in similar amounts to those observed in some arabica coffee beans. A decrease in glucose uptake in Caco-2 cells was found, but not in fructose, suggesting selective inhibition of SGLT1 and potential antidiabetic effects. These results show that Azorean coffee pulp has potential as a sustainable and bioactive ingredient for incorporation into functional foods or dietary supplements.

Effect of varied flour composition on some nutrient characteristics of cookies from Akidi, wheat and yellow maize composite flour

The effect of varied flour composition on the proximate and anti-nutritional properties of high fibre cookies from flour blends of wheat, akidi (black bean) and whole yellow corn was studied using D-optimal mixture design of response surface methodology (RSM) of which ten (10) experimental runs were generated while 100% wheat flour served as control. The cookies were subjected to proximate and anti-nutrient analysis using standard methods. Statistical analysis and optimization of mixture components were carried out using Design-Expert software version 6.0.8 while means were separated using ANOVA. Significant differences were accepted at p<0.01 for regression analysis and p<0.05 for mean separations. The results of proximate composition of the cookies showed significant (P<0.05) difference among the cookies with the ranged of 5.12-6.49% for moisture, 3.53-4.93% for ash, 3.82-5.44% for fibre, 9.84-11.69% for fat, 10.32-18.47% for protein, and 54.28-65.04% for carbohydrate. The anti-nutrients factors of the cookies ranged from 0.07-0.35% for saponin, 0.21-0.56 for phytate, 0.05-0.41% for Trypsin inhibitor and 0.17-0.50 for tannin content. The study revealed that quality and nutrient-dense cookies can be processed from blends of wheat, cowpea and whole yellow corn flour of the proportion (10:50:40) which exhibited high level of fibre, fat, protein and lower level of anti-nutrients as evaluated. Optimization of mixture variables showed that optimal response is generated for flour mixture comprising 10% wheat, 10.89% akidi and 79.11% whole yellow corn with desirability of 55.80%.

Quantitative Analysis of Yield Stress and Its Evolution in Fiber-Reinforced Cemented Paste Backfill

Fiber-reinforced cemented paste backfill (FR-CPB) has attracted considerable attention in modern mining applications due to its superior mechanical properties and adaptability. Despite its potential, understanding its rheological behavior remains limited, largely because of the absence of quantitative methods for assessing fiber packing behavior within CPB. This study develops a rheology-based approach to determine the maximum packing fraction of polypropylene fibers in fresh CPB, revealing that shorter fibers (3 mm) achieve a maximum packing fraction of 0.661, significantly higher than longer fibers (12 mm) with 0.534. Building on these findings, a quantitative model for the static yield stress of FR-CPB was developed, showing that under a high fiber content (0.9%) and with longer fibers (12 mm), the yield stress reached 274.34 kPa, a 40% increase compared to shorter fibers. Additionally, the study modeled the time-dependent evolution of yield stress, achieving a prediction accuracy with a correlation coefficient of 0.92. These advancements enable the optimization of FR-CPB composition, which can reduce material usage, enhance pipeline transport efficiency, and improve backfill stability in underground voids. By minimizing the risk of structural failure and optimizing resource allocation, this research provides a theoretical foundation for safer and more cost-effective mining operations.