Fiber Level Research Articles

Effects of Dietary Fiber and Copper on the Performance and Gut Microbiota of Finishing Pigs

This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary fiber (DF) levels and copper concentrations on the production performance and cecal microbial diversity of finishing pigs. A 2 × 2 factorial experimental design was used, with different levels of dietary fiber (low [23% DF]: L and high [30% DF]: H) and copper concentrations (normal [25 mg/kg]: N and supplemented [45 mg/kg]: S) resulting in four diets (LN, LS, HN, and HS). Forty-eight hybrid barrows (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire), with an initial body weight of 76 kg ± 1.5 kg, were randomly assigned to four groups: LN, LS, HN, and HS, with 12 replicates per group and one pig per replicate. There was a 7-day adaptation period followed by a 56-day feeding trial, after which all pigs were slaughtered for sampling. Results indicated that in finishing pigs, the low dietary fiber group exhibited a higher final weight, a higher average daily gain, and a lower feed-to-gain ratio compared to the high fiber group (p < 0.05). The LS group showed higher digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, ash, neutral detergent fiber, and DF than the HN and HS groups (p < 0.05). Blood total protein levels were higher in the high fiber group, whereas blood Cu levels were higher in the supplemented copper group (p < 0.05). High dietary fiber increased the activities of colonic carboxymethylcellulase and β-glucanase (p < 0.05). Concentrations of acetic acid, propionic acid, and total volatile fatty acids were elevated in the high fiber group (p < 0.05). Microbial α-diversity indices (observed species, Chao 1, and Shannon indices) increased with fiber but decreased with copper supplementation (p < 0.05). The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio increased with fiber levels, with a higher relative abundance of Lactobacillus in the LS group. In conclusion, appropriate copper supplementation in diets can mitigate the negative effects of high fiber levels on finishing pig production performance by enhancing nutrient digestibility, fiber-degrading enzyme activity, regulating the microbial community, and its metabolic products.

The sodium/ascorbic acid co-transporter SVCT2 distributes in a striated membrane-enriched domain at the M-band level in slow-twitch skeletal muscle fibers.

Vitamin C plays key roles in cellular homeostasis, functioning as a potent antioxidant and a positive regulator of cell differentiation. In skeletal muscle, the vitamin C/sodium co-transporter SVCT2 is preferentially expressed in oxidative slow fibers. SVCT2 is up-regulated during the early fusion of primary myoblasts and decreases during initial myotube growth, indicating the relevance of vitamin C uptake via SVCT2 for early skeletal muscle differentiation and fiber-type definition. However, our understanding of SVCT2 expression and function in adult skeletal muscles is still limited. In this study, we demonstrate that SVCT2 exhibits an intracellular distribution in chicken slow skeletal muscles, following a highly organized striated pattern. A similar distribution was observed in human muscle samples, chicken cultured myotubes, and isolated mouse myofibers. Immunohistochemical analyses, combined with biochemical cell fractionation experiments, reveal a strong co-localization of SVCT2 with intracellular detergent-soluble membrane fractions at the central sarcomeric M-band, where it co-solubilizes with sarcoplasmic reticulum proteins. Remarkably, electrical stimulation of cultured myofibers induces the redistribution of SVCT2 into a vesicular pattern. Our results provide novel insights into the dynamic roles of SVCT2 in different intracellular compartments in response to functional demands.

Genetic characterization and mapping of the shell-strength trait in peanut.

Shell strength is an important trait in peanuts that impacts shell breakage and yield. Despite its significance, the genetic basis of shell strength in peanuts remains largely unknown, and the current methods for rating this trait are qualitative and subjective. This study aimed to investigate the genetics of shell strength using a segregating recombinant-inbred-line (RIL) population derived from the hard-shelled cultivar 'Hanoch' and the soft-shelled cultivar 'Harari'. Initially, a quantitative method was developed using a texture analyzer, focusing on the proximal part of isolated shells with a P/5 punching probe. This method revealed significant differences between Hanoch and Harari. Shell strength was then measured in 235 RILs across two distinct environments, revealing a normal distribution with some RILs exhibiting shell strength values beyond those of the parental lines, indicating transgressive segregation. Analysis of variance indicated significant effects for the RILs, with no effects of block or year, and a broad-sense heritability estimate of 0.675, indicating a substantial genetic component. Using an existing genetic map, we identified three QTLs for shell strength, with one major QTL (qSSB02) explaining 18.7% of the phenotypic variation. The allelic status of qSSB02 corresponded significantly with cultivar designation for in-shell or shelled types over four decades of Israeli peanut breeding. Physical and compositional analyses revealed that Hanoch has a higher shell density than Harari, rather than any difference in shell thickness, and is associated with increased levels of lignin, cellulose, and crude fiber. These findings provide valuable insights into the genetic and compositional factors that influence shell strength in peanut, laying a foundation for marker-assisted selection in breeding programs focused on improving pod hardness in peanuts.

Effects of Protected Cultivation on Agronomic, Yield, and Quality Traits of Yard-Long Bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. unguiculata cv.-gr. sesquipedalis)

Protected cultivation is the sustainable approach to horticultural crop production under adverse climates. In this study, the performance of yard-long beans under three protected cultivations, including single-span polyhouse (SSP), five-span polyhouse (FSP), and insect-proof net house (IPN), is examined and compared to open field cultivation. The above protected cultivation can extend the harvest period of pods by 6–10 days, improve their quality, and increase yield by 15.6% to 25.1%, reducing the incidence and severity of thrips and Cercospora leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. Among them, yard-long beans grown in SSP are longer and straighter in shape and have the lowest incidence and severity of pests and diseases and the highest levels of total polyphenols, total sugar, soluble protein, starch, and fiber. This indicates that protected cultivation has broad application in the production of yard-long beans. Through full subset regression analysis (FSRA), we report here that the yield and of yard-long bean occurrences of pests and diseases were highly impacted by climatic factors, especially UV radiation intensity and air temperature. These results have considerable implications for improving pod yield and quality and green prevention and control of pests and diseases through optimizing facility structure and fertilizer management.

Comprehensive analysis of soybean (Glycine max L.) by-products: nutritional value, phenolic composition, and bioactive properties

Soybeans are key components in vegetable beverage production, generating two by-products: soybean hulls and okara. For every ton of soybeans, 50-80 kg of hulls and 120 kg of okara are produced, being often discarded or used in low-value applications like fertilizers or feed. This study aims at characterizing their biochemical and nutritional profiles to assess their potential reintroduction into the food chain. Both by-products have high levels of protein and dietary fiber, mainly insoluble. Okara and hulls predominantly contain oleic acid and linoleic acid, respectively. Seventeen phenolic compounds, mainly isoflavones, were identified, with genistein as the main compound. Hulls exhibit superior antioxidant activity compared to okara. Neither extract showed cytotoxicity or anti-inflammatory effects and exhibited limited antimicrobial activity. However, both demonstrate prebiotic potential, promoting beneficial gut bacteria growth. The results suggest that these by-products have significant potential as new ingredients for their protein, isoflavone, and fiber content, alongside prebiotic properties.

Nutritional values of soybean meal from different sources in multiparous sows

This study determined the available energy content, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients, and ileal amino acid (AA) digestibility of soybean meal (SBM) from different sources in non-gestating, non-lactating sows. In Exp. 1, 24 multiparous Landrace × Yorkshire (LY) sows (parity 3–5) were allotted to a replicated 12 × 3 Youden square design consisting of 12 diets and 3 periods. The 12 diets included 11 test diets containing SBM from different sources and a corn-based diet. Each period included a 5-d adaptation and a 5-d total fecal and urine collection. In Exp. 2, 8 multiparous LY sows (parity 3–5) were allotted to a replicated 4 × 3 Youden square design with 4 diets and 3 periods. The 4 diets included a nitrogen-free diet and 3 SBM diets (3 representative SBM samples were selected from Exp. 1). Our results showed that the coefficient of variation of ether extract, crude fiber, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber levels in 11 SBM samples were > 20%. There were no differences in digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME), and the ATTD of gross energy, nitrogen, and neutral detergent fiber values between different SBM samples (P > 0.05). Additionally, no differences in AA digestibility were identified among the 3 representative SBM samples (P > 0.05). In conclusion, there were no differences in DE, ME, and AA digestibility between different SBM samples fed to multiparous non-gestating sows. When formulating diets for sows, it is important to consider the differences in the nutritional value of SBM at different physiological stages.

Impact of Button Mushroom Stem Residue as a Functional Ingredient for Improving Nutritional Characteristics of Pizza Dough

In this study, the formulation of doughs was investigated using varying percentages of Agaricus bisporus flour, with the aim of utilizing mushroom stem fragments, typically considered production waste. The stem residues were collected from a mushroom cultivation facility, cleaned, and washed to remove impurities. The material was then subjected to two different drying methods: conventional dehydration and freeze-drying. After drying, the material was ground to produce mushroom flour. Doughs were formulated with different proportions of this flour and analyzed for texture profile, color, nutritional value, phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and sensory characteristics. The inclusion of mushroom flour resulted in darker doughs, particularly when the flour was obtained through conventional dehydration due to oxidation processes. This substitution also affected texture parameters, leading to increased hardness and reduced elasticity in most treatments compared to the control sample. In addition, cohesiveness progressively decreased from 0.35 in the control to 0.14 in the sample made with 100% dehydrated flour and 0.20 in the sample made with 100% freeze-dried flour, resulting in brittle doughs. The most significant impact on nutritional value was an increase in protein, fat, and dietary fiber levels, reaching values over 5% of crude fiber in the sample to which 50% of dehydrated mushroom flour was added. Additionally, mushroom flours exhibited a high proportion of phenolic compounds, reaching values near 700 mg gallic acid/100 g in the flour from freeze-dried samples and 320 mg gallic acid/100 g in the flour from dehydrated samples. These values reflect a higher content of phenolic compounds in products made with mushroom flours and an increased antioxidant capacity compared to the control sample. Sensory evaluation showed that the texture remained unaffected; however, flavor perception was altered at a 50% mushroom flour substitution. In terms of external appearance, only the 25% freeze-dried mushroom flour formulation was statistically similar to the control, while all other treatments were rated lower.

Productivity and economic performance of Nellore young bulls fed diets with increasing fiber content.

Adequate neutral detergent insoluble fiber (NDF) content in the total diet can improve intake efficiency, prevent rumen disorders, and enhance the health and performance of feedlot-finished beef cattle. We hypothesized that an increase in dietary fiber levels would decrease the productive performance but increase the economic performance of young bulls in confinement. Thus, it was aimed to evaluate the effect of increasing fiber levels on feed intake, wastage, and productive and economic performance of Nellore young bulls finished in confinement. We used 20 Nellore cattle, non-castrated males, 30 months old, and average body weight (BW) of 416.35 ± 2.2kg distributed in a completely randomized design, kept in individual stalls. Animals were divided into four treatments consisting of four levels of neutral detergent insoluble fiber (NDF) (25%, 30%, 35%, and 40% NDF) in total DM. Nutrient intake, feed conversion, feed waste, body weight (BW) at slaughter, total weight gain (TWG), average daily gain (ADG), hot carcass weight (HCW), and carcass yield (CR) were evaluated. In addition, economic parameters (revenue, food expenses, and gross margin) were calculated and compared. The dry matter (DMI), organic matter (OMI), crude protein (CPI), and ether extract (EEI) intakes showed quadratic behavior. The DMI maximum estimated was 28.5% NDF in the diet. The NDF and ADF intakes showed a positive linear effect and the starch intake had a negative linear effect. There was a significant positive linear effect (P < 0.05) for the variables total mixed ration (TMR) offered and daily and total RTM intake. Minimum RTM wastage was estimated with a diet containing 30% NDF. The maximum points for BW at slaughter, HCW, and ADG were 29.9%; 29.6%, and 25% NDF, respectively. The costs of concentrate and silage showed a positive linear behavior, as did the ADG costs and the carcass equivalent cost (P < 0.05). The maximum point of the revenue estimate (US$/animal) was 29.9% of NDF, 26.1% of NDF for the total expenditure on food (US$/animal), and 32.5% of NDF for the gross margin (U$/animal). In conclusion, the animals fed a 30% NDF diet showed the best performance and economics, in addition to less food waste. We recommend 25 to 32.5% of NDF in the diet to obtain maximum productive and economic performance when finishing Nellore young bulls in confinement.

Molecular determinants of skeletal muscle force loss in response to 5days of dry immersion in human.

Astronauts in Earth's orbit experience microgravity, resulting in a decline of skeletal muscle mass and function. On Earth, models simulating microgravity have shown that the extent of the loss in muscle force is greater than the loss in muscle mass. The reasons behind this disproportionate loss of muscle force are still poorly understood. In the present study, we hypothesize that alongside the loss in skeletal muscle mass, modifications in the expression profile of genes encoding critical determinants of resting membrane potential, excitation-contraction coupling and Ca2+ handling contribute to the decline in skeletal muscle force. Healthy male volunteers (n=18) participated in a 5-day dry immersion (DI) study, an Earth-based model of simulated microgravity. Muscle force measurement and MRI analysis of the cross-sectional area of thigh muscles were performed before and after DI. Biopsies of the vastus lateralis skeletal muscle performed before and after DI were used for the determination Ca2+ properties of isolated muscle fibres, molecular and biochemical analyses. The extent of the decline in force, measured as maximal voluntary contraction of knee extensors (-11.1%, P<0.01) was higher than the decline in muscle mass (-2.5%, P<0.01). The decline in muscle mass was molecularly supported by a significant repression of the anabolic IGF-1/Akt/mTOR pathway (-19.9% and -40.9% in 4E-BP1 and RPS6 phosphorylation, respectively), a transcriptional downregulation of the autophagy-lysosome pathway and a downregulation in the mRNA levels of myofibrillar protein slow isoforms. At the single fibre level, biochemical and tension-pCa curve analyses showed that the loss in force was independent of fibre type (-11% and -12.3% in slow and fast fibres, respectively) and Ca2+ activation properties. Finally, we showed a significant remodelling in the expression of critical players of resting membrane potential (aquaporin 4: -24.9%, ATP1A2: +50.4%), excitation-contraction coupling (CHRNA1: +75.1%, CACNA2D1: -23.5%, JPH2: -24.2%, TRDN: -15.6%, S100A1: +27.2%), and Ca2+ handling (ATP2A2: -32.5%, CASQ1: -15%, ORAI1: -36.2%, ATP2B1: -19.1%). These findings provide evidence that a deregulation in the expression profile of critical molecular determinants of resting membrane potential, excitation-contraction coupling, and Ca2+ handling could be involved in the loss of muscle force induced by DI. They also provide the paradigm for the understanding of muscle force loss during prolonged bed rest periods as those encountered in intensive care unit.

Purified diets containing high levels of soluble fiber and grain-based diets promote similar gastrointestinal morphometry yet distinct microbial communities.

Dietary fibers are essential for maintaining gut health. Insoluble fibers aid in fecal bulking and water retention while soluble fiber is a fermentative substrate for intestinal microbial communities. Grain-based diets (GBDs) are commonly used in preclinical research but the variability in ingredients across batches impedes reproducibility. Purified diets (PDs), which are composed of highly refined ingredients, pose a potential solution but the most widely used low-fat control PDs contain no soluble fiber. This study intended to identify a PD with a combination of fibers that promotes murine gut health and microbial diversity. A PD with optimal fiber composition would aid in the standardization and reproducibility of studies investigating intestinal physiology and the gut microbiota.

Phytonutrient formulation using gum Arabic and Adansonia Digitata pulp: Lessons for boosting the human immune system - part 1

BackgroundThe human innate immune system (HIIs) defends the body against pathogens and relies on the energy obtained from food sources to increase its metabolic activity. AimIn this study, a new blended 3 in1 formula comprising A. senegal, A. seyal, and Adansonia digitata at a ratio of 5:3:2 was proposed as a potential aid in the management of Covid-19 patients with Metabolic Syndrome (MeT-S) disorders, with a specific focus on those presenting with impaired health. MethodsThe utilization of Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-MS) was employed to analyze 3 blended ingredient combinations, including the 3in1 formula, A. senegal, A. seyal, and A. digitata pulp, for the presence of elements by detecting the levels of moisture, ash, minerals, protein, amino acids, carbohydrates, sugars, prebiotic polysaccharides, energy, dietary fibers, and crude fibers. This advanced technique has replaced the titration method used in previous studies. ResultsThe mineral content of the blended 3in1 sample was found to be dominated by potassium (70.56±2.35), Calcium (68.54±3.12), Magnesium (16.60±4.80), Phosphorus (11.50±2.50), Sodium (31.4±4.80), Zinc (19.19±2.10), Iron (19 ± 0.14), Copper (15.12±1.81), and selenium (0.037 ± 0.005) g/100 g DW. The blended 3 in1 sample also had a higher hydroxyproline content (30.17 g/100 g and a higher total protein and carbohydrate content than the blended 2 in1 sample. Additionally, arabinose was identified as the major reducing sugar with up to 48.23 and 49.97g/100 gDW. The prebiotic polysaccharide content was 88.61±3.12g/100 gDW for the blended 3 in1 sample, which was significantly higher than that of the blended 2 in1 sample. Furthermore, the energy value of the blended 3 in1 sample was significantly higher at 350.12±5.210 kcal/100 g than the blended 2 in1 sample at 340.67±3.155 kWh. The Insoluble Dietary Fibers (IDFs) and Soluble Dietary Fibers (SDFs) of the blended 3 in1 sample were 12.6±2.10 g/100 gDW and 87±2.124 g/100 g DW, respectively, which were significantly higher than those of the blended 2 in1 sample. ConclusionThe discovery of distinct molecular compositions of A. senegal and A. seyal when combined with Adansonia Digitata Pulp (ADLP) in the 3 in1 blend demonstrated enhanced HIIs among Covid-19 patients with compromised MeT-S disorders. This may be considered a valuable natural antiviral agent for the treatment of such individuals.

Bio-composites from barley, wheat, and cassava flours reinforced with oil palm residues: Characterization and tensile mechanical performance

This study explores the production of bio-composites from barley, wheat, and cassava flours, reinforced with varying ratios of oil palm residues. The research emphasizes principles of circular economy and sustainability. Both flours and reinforcements underwent characterization to elucidate how their physicochemical properties affect the mechanical behavior of the bio-composites. Barley flour exhibited significantly higher levels of protein (11.11 %), crude fiber (5.64 %), and ash (2.80 %) compared to wheat and cassava flours. Conversely, cassava flour stood out for its high carbohydrate concentration (approximately 97.8 % on a dry weight basis). Characterization highlighted enhanced adhesion between reinforcements in bio-composites with cassava flour, alongside morphological distinctions on fractured surfaces. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis unveiled several functional groups in the bio-composites, while thermogravimetric analysis delineated five stages of thermal degradation. In terms of mechanical properties, bio-composites with barley flour showed higher elastic modulus values (970.5 MPa), while those with 12 % OPKS exhibited tensile strengths of 1.7–2.1 MPa. The interaction among components emerged as a fundamental factor influencing the mechanical properties of bio-composites, underscoring the necessity of considering reinforcement composition and distribution during fabrication.

Pathomorphological Features of Lung Fibrosis in Individuals Occupationally Exposed to Alpha Radiation

The aim of this study was to search for the specific morphological features of radiation-induced lung fibrosis compared to pulmonary fibrosis of another origin, using biological specimens of lung tissue collected from workers internally exposed to alpha radiation. The morphological features of lung fibrosis were defined using biological specimens of lung tissue that had been collected during autopsy examinations from 56 workers diagnosed with plutonium-induced lung fibrosis during life, from 34 workers with lung fibrosis of another origin (due to chronic inflammatory lung diseases) and from 35 workers without clinical pulmonary pathology (controls). The total lung-absorbed dose of gamma radiation from external exposure did not significantly differ among the studied groups, and the total lung-absorbed dose of alpha radiation from internal exposure was significantly higher in workers with plutonium-induced lung fibrosis. To investigate the extracellular matrix components, mono- and polyclonal labeled antibodies against type I, IV, and V collagens were used. In addition, to evaluate the system of extracellular matrix metabolism regulation, the antibodies against matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2, MMP-9, tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 were used. The study revealed qualitative and quantitative morphological peculiarities of plutonium-induced lung fibrosis compared to lung fibrosis of another origin. This allows us to conclude that plutonium-induced lung fibrosis is a specific type of lung fibrosis, which is characterized with specific location and architectonics of fibrosis foci within the lung, and with changes in levels of collagen, elastic and reticular fibers in the pulmonary stroma. The analysis demonstrated that hyperproduction of type V collagen plays a key role in the development of plutonium-induced lung fibrosis. In addition, the imbalance between the expression of MMPs and their inhibitors plays an important role in the development of lung fibrosis.

Random Raman Lasing in Diode-Pumped Multi-Mode Graded-Index Fiber with Femtosecond Laser-Inscribed Random Refractive Index Structures of Various Shapes

Diode-pumped multi-mode graded-index (GRIN) fiber Raman lasers provide prominent brightness enhancement both in linear and half-open cavities with random distributed feedback via natural Rayleigh backscattering. Femtosecond laser-inscribed random refractive index structures allow for the sufficient reduction in the Raman threshold by means of Rayleigh backscattering signal enhancement by +50 + 66 dB relative to the intrinsic fiber level. At the same time, they offer an opportunity to generate Stokes beams with a shape close to fundamental transverse mode (LP01), as well as to select higher-order modes such as LP11 with a near-1D longitudinal random structure shifted off the fiber axis. Further development of the inscription technology includes the fabrication of 3D ring-shaped random structures using a spatial light modulator (SLM) in a 100/140 μm GRIN multi-mode fiber. This allows for the generation of a multi-mode diode-pumped GRIN fiber random Raman laser at 976 nm with a ring-shaped output beam at a relatively low pumping threshold (~160 W), demonstrated for the first time to our knowledge.

Benzo[b]fluoranthene damages coronary artery and affects atherosclerosis markers in mice and umbilical vein endothelial cells

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exposure is associated with cardiovascular diseases. Toxic effects of PAHs are diverse, while cardiovascular consequences of benzo[b]fluoranthene (B[b]F) are unclear. Here, we reported the impacts of B[b]F on coronary artery and atherosclerosis markers both in mice and umbilical vein endothelial EAhy.926 cells. In mice, we found that B[b]F decreases heart-to-body weight ratio, affects aortic physiology, elevates serum low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol, increases aortic levels of collagen fiber and atherosclerotic marker vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and downregulates oxidative stress related nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). In EAhy.926 cells, we showed that B[b]F inhibits cell proliferation and migration in a dose-dependent manner, induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, increases reactive oxygen species, upregulates VCAM-1 level, and suppresses expression of Nrf2. Taken together, our findings reveal that B[b]F exposure may contribute to coronary artery damage and potentially induce atherosclerosis, possibly via the Nrf2-related signaling pathways.

A whole food, plant-based diet reduces amino acid levels in patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Amino acids are critical to tumor survival. Tumors can acquire amino acids from the surrounding microenvironment, including the serum. Limiting dietary amino acids is suggested to influence their serum levels. Further, a plant-based diet is reported to contain fewer amino acids than an animal-based diet. Here, we investigated the impact of a whole food, plant-based diet on lowering the serum levels of amino acids in patients with cancer. Patients with metastatic breast cancer (n=18) were enrolled in clinical trial NCT03045289 . An ad libitum whole food, plant-based diet was implemented for 8 weeks without calorie or portion restriction. We found that a whole food, plant-based diet resulted in a lower intake of calories, fat, and amino acids and higher levels of fiber. Additionally, body weight, serum insulin, and IGF-1 were reduced in participants. The diet contained lower levels of essential and non-essential amino acids. Importantly, the lowered dietary intake of amino acids translated to reduced serum levels of amino acids in participants (5/9 essential amino acids; 4/11 non-essential amino acids). These findings provide a tractable approach to limiting amino acid levels in cancer patients. This data lays a foundation for studying the relationship between amino acids in patients and tumor progression. Further, a whole-food, plant-based diet has the potential to synergize with cancer therapies that exploit metabolic vulnerabilities.

Utilization of Polygonum cognatum Meissn, a Gastronomic Product of the Turkish Culinary Culture, in the Production of Gluten-free Biscuits

ABSTRACT Polygonum cognatum Meissn. (Polygonaceae), locally known as “solucan otu” or “madimak” in Turkey, is a type of edible grass with functional properties that naturally grows in various regions of the country, particularly in Central Anatolia. Celiac disease is a prevalent digestive system disorder that impairs the absorption of food. Incorporating functional ingredients into gluten-free formulations can increase their value. To be a preferred alternative to commonly consumed products, a new product must be sensory-appealing. This study focuses on developing a healthy, functional, and enjoyable gluten-free cookie. Various proportions of P. cognatum flour (10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%) were utilized in the development of the product. The physical, textural, chemical, and sensory characteristics of the biscuit samples were compared to those of samples made with wheat flour (Control 1) and a gluten-free flour mixture (Control 2). The addition of P. cognatum flour proportionally increased the moisture content, ash value, dietary fiber, antioxidant, phenolic matter, and protein content of the biscuits without changing the fat content, according to experimental findings. Samples with 40% P. cognatum addition exhibited higher levels of moisture, ash, protein, dietary fiber, antioxidant, and phenolic matter compared with the other samples. However, the results of the sensory analysis revealed that utilizing more than 30% of P. cognatum flour significantly decreased consumer preference by negatively affecting sensory attributes such as texture, consistency, mouthfeel, taste, overall acceptability, color, and fracture. Hence, it was concluded that this type of flour should not exceed 30% when producing functional gluten-free biscuits. From this study, we advocate for the recognition of P. cognatum as a local and gastronomic product, which has the potential to be utilized in wider areas.

A Comprehensive Analysis of Nutritional Profile, Cultivation Techniques, and Therapeutic Potential of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus spp.)

Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) has emerged as a globally significant fruit crop, valued for its distinctive appearance and nutritional profile. Native to Central America, this cactaceous vine has adapted to various tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The fruit's vibrant exterior houses a white or red pulp studded with numerous edible seeds. Cultivation techniques have evolved to optimize yield and quality, with vertical or horizontal support systems and specific nutrient management strategies being crucial for successful production. Dragon fruit propagation primarily relies on stem cuttings, which can bear fruit within 14-18 months under favorable conditions. The fruit's nutritional composition is noteworthy, containing high levels of antioxidants, vitamins (particularly vitamin C), minerals, and dietary fiber. These components contribute to its potential health benefits, including cholesterol reduction, improved digestion, and enhanced immune function. Pharmacological studies have demonstrated various biological activities of dragon fruit extracts, such as anti-hyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective, and anti-ulcer effects. These properties are attributed to bioactive compounds like betalains, phenolics, and flavonoids present in the fruit. Additionally, dragon fruit shows promise in managing chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity, potentially through its effects on blood glucose regulation and lipid metabolism

Comparing continuum and direct fiber models of soft tissues: An ocular biomechanics example reveals that continuum models may artificially disrupt the strains at both the tissue and fiber levels

Collagen fibers are the main load-bearing component of soft tissues but difficult to incorporate into models. Whilst simplified homogenization models suffice for some applications, a thorough mechanistic understanding requires accurate prediction of fiber behavior, including both detailed fiber-level strains and long-distance transmission. Our goal was to compare the performance of a continuum model of the optic nerve head (ONH) built using conventional techniques with a fiber model we recently introduced which explicitly incorporates the complex 3D organization and interaction of collagen fiber bundles [1]. To ensure a fair comparison, we constructed the continuum model with identical geometrical, structural, and boundary specifications as for the fiber model. We found that: 1) although both models accurately matched the intraocular pressure (IOP)-induced globally averaged displacement responses observed in experiments, they diverged significantly in their ability to replicate specific 3D tissue-level strain patterns. Notably, the fiber model faithfully replicated the experimentally observed depth-dependent variability of radial strain, the ring-like pattern of meridional strain, and the radial pattern of circumferential strain, whereas the continuum model failed to do so; 2) the continuum model disrupted the strain transmission along each fiber, a feature captured well by the fiber model. These results demonstrate limitations of the conventional continuum models that rely on homogenization and affine deformation assumptions, which render them incapable of capturing some complex tissue-level and fiber-level deformations. Our results show that the strengths of explicit fiber modeling help capture intricate ONH biomechanics. They potentially also help modeling other fibrous tissues. Statement of SignificanceUnderstanding the mechanics of fibrous tissues is crucial for advancing knowledge of various diseases. This study uses the ONH as a test case to compare conventional continuum models with fiber models that explicitly account for the complex fiber structure. We found that the fiber model captured better the biomechanical behaviors at both the tissue level and the fiber level. The insights gained from this study demonstrate the significant potential of fiber models to advance our understanding of not only glaucoma pathophysiology but also other conditions involving fibrous soft tissues. This can contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies across a wide range of applications.

Intake and digestibility of four rations with different fiber levels in alpacas (Vicugna pacos).

The aim of this study was to evaluated the impact of different fibre levels in alpaca diet on voluntary feed intake and apparent digestibility, and to estimate the digestibility of organic matter (OMD) from the content of crude protein (CP) in feces. The study was carried out with twelve alpacas (36.7 ± 6.4kg body weight- BW), which were offered 4 treatments with different neutral detergent fiber content (NDF. T1: 40.3%; T2: 62%; T3: 68%; T4: 72%) under a switch back design. Absolute daily dry matter intake (DMI) was higher for T1 (678g/d) than T4 (312g/d) (p ≥ 005). NDF intake was similar between treatments when related to BW or MW (on average 1% BW and 22g/kg MW. p ≥ 0.05). Water intake (L/kg DMI) was higher in T1 compared to the other treatments, with values ranging from 2.9 L/kg DMI(T1) to 2.8 L/kg DMI(T4), respectively (p ≤ 0.05). Digestibility of dry matter, organic matter and CP was higher in T1 than in the other treatments, with average values ranging from 72% for T1 to 32% for T4 (p ≤ 0.05). NDF digestibility was similar among treatments (p ≥ 0.05). The regression equation generated to predict OMD (y) was as follows: y = 0.360 + 0.08294*fecal CP (g/kg OM). Further studies will indicate whether faecal nitrogen can be used to estimate digestibility and hence diet quality in South American camelids.