N3 Ratio Research Articles

The use of Nannochloropsis sp. as a source of omega‐3 fatty acids in dry pasta: chemical, technological and sensory evaluation

SummaryNannochloropsis is a microalga characterised by having high amounts of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a fatty acid known for its health benefits. The aim of this study was to elaborate dry pasta with a significant contribution of EPA using Nannochloropsis sp., without affecting the quality product and with good consumer acceptance. Technological quality was analysed in terms of cooking properties and texture profile. Cooked pasta was characterised through proximal composition, phenolic compound, fatty acid content and sensorial analysis. It was possible to replace up to 30% of wheat flour with microalgae without affecting the technological quality of pasta and with a significant contribution of EPA to the daily diet (0.237 g per 100 g pasta). The incorporation of 10% and 20% Nannochloropsis in pasta formulation allowed to decrease the n6:n3 ratio from 25:1 to 5:1 and 2:1, respectively. Therefore, the microalgae are an interesting ingredient to increase EPA consumption in products like pasta, while the sensory evaluation confirms the possibility towards a commercial approach.

Postnatal RBC arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acids deficiencies are associated with higher risk of neonatal morbidities and mortality in preterm infants

Arachidonic (AA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids are essential for the health and development of the neonate. Red blood cell (RBC) fatty acids were analyzed in 583 very low birth weight (VLBW) infants and 274 term infants using capillary gas chromatography. VLBW infants exhibited significantly lower RBC AA (13.0 ± 0.89 vs. 13.5 ± 0.98) and DHA (3.77 ± 0.60 vs. 3.80 ± 0.62), but higher n6:n3 ratio (3.97 ± 0.46 vs. 3.63 ± 0.37) than term infants. In VLBW infants, DHA was lower in those born with small for gestational age (3.69 ± 0.57 vs. 3.86 ± 0.58) and those who suffered from neonatal sepsis (3.73 ± 0.60 vs. 3.86 ± 0.55). Both AA and DHA were significantly lower in infants who developed respiratory distress syndrome or intraventricular hemorrhage, and those who died during the hospital stay. VLBW infants had lower postnatal RBC AA and DHA levels than term infants did. These deficits are associated with higher risk of neonatal morbidities and mortality.

Docosahexaenoic Acid and Eicosapentaenoic Acid Did not Alter trans-10,cis-12 Conjugated Linoleic Acid Incorporation into Mice Brain and Eye Lipids.

trans 10,cis 12-CLA has been reported to alter fatty acid composition in several non-neurological tissues, but its effects are less known in neurological tissues. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine if CLA supplementation would alter brain and eye fatty acid composition and if those changes could be prevented by concomitant supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n3) or eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n3). Eight-week-old, pathogen-free C57BL/6N female mice (n=6/group) were fed either the control diet or diets containing 0.5% (w/w) t10,c12-CLA in the presence or absence of either 1.5% DHA or 1.5% EPA for 8weeks. CLA concentration was significantly (P<0.05) greater in the eye but not in the brain lipids of the CLA group when compared with the control group. The sums of saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and n3:n6 ratio did not differ between these two groups for both tissues. The n3:n6 ratio and concentrations of 20:5n3 and 22:5n3 were significantly greater, and those of 20:4n6, 22:4n6, and 22:5n6 were lesser in the CLA+DHA and CLA+EPA groups than in the control and CLA groups for either tissue. DHA concentration was higher in the CLA+DHA group only but not in the CLA+EPA group when compared with the CLA group for both tissues. The dietary fatty acids generally induced similar changes in brain and eye fatty acid concentration and at the concentrations used both DHA and EPA fed individually with CLA were more potent than CLA alone in altering the tissue fatty acid concentration.

Feeding pattern, metabolic status and milk composition of Chilika buffaloes in their natural habitat

Chilika buffaloes, recognized as a breed since 2009 vide accession no. India_Buffalo_1500-Chilika_01012, are found in and around Chilika lake of Odisha. These buffaloes are reared under purely extensive system with no feed and medicine supplementation. The present study was undertaken to know the feeding pattern, metabolic status and milk composition of Chilika buffaloes in their natural habitat as very few literature is available about these buffaloes which are reared with zero external input system. The major portion of their feed is composed of different brackishwater weeds growing in and around the lake and grasses growing in the shallow water beds. The study was undertaken taking 60 buffaloes in their first to fourth lactation from 3 villages. The proximate composition of weeds and grasses were comparable with a good quality fodder but having higher acid insoluble ash. From the serum metabolic status it was seen that the protein level was adequate in the animals but the glucose level below normal range. These buffaloes have optimum serum level of major and minor minerals except Na, K and Fe, which is higher than the normal values. The milk fat content was higher than other buffaloes. It was found that among the PUFA the ratio of n3 to n6 was quite good which was higher than cattle and comparable with the fish. Further research is required to explore the availability of the biomass and exploit the potentiality of these buffaloes for the rich n:3 fatty acid content in the milk to be utilized by the today's health conscious society.

Efficacy of targeted care for sleep in patients with depressive disorder

Objective To explore the efficacy of targeted care for sleep by analyzing polysomnography (PSG) of the different stages of night sleep in patients with depressive disorder. Methods 80 depressive patients met the recruited criteria from Feb 2015 to Feb 2016 were sample-randomly divided into research group with targeted care and controlled group with routine nurse by random number table. PSG of each case was analyzed and Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) were used to assess at baseline and endpoint during 4 weeks period. Results Total sleep time, sleep efficiency, N3 and rapid eyes movement ratio of PSG were (395.74 ± 29.31) min, (80.42±1.92) %, (19.11±2.29) % and (16.01±2.55) % in research group, (372.34±24.37) min, (72.61±1.64) % , (13.61±2.38) % and (13.87±2.03) % in controlled group (t=2.892-13.361, P<0.05). SDS at 2nd week and 4th week were (45.28 ± 6.28) points and (32.62 ± 4.65) points in research group, (48.63±7.54) points and (36.32±4.34) points in controlled group (t=-4.12, -4.43, P <0.05). HAMD at 2nd week and 4th week were (15.92±2.62) points, (9.94±2.32) points in research group, (18.27±3.41) points and (12.45 ± 2.21) points in controlled group (t=-3.51, -4.35, P <0.05). Conclusions Efficacy of targeted care for sleep in patients with depressive disorder is better and sooner, and the intervention is good for both sleep quality and mood level. Key words: Depressive disorder; Polysomnography; Care for sleep

Effects of season on the quality of Garfagnina goat milk

The Garfagnina goat is an endangered native goat population from Italy. This study aims to give a contribution to the milk quality assessment of the native goat during the two productive seasons, spring and summer, and to verify the relationships between some meteorological data and physiological and milk quality parameters. Individual milk samples were taken in the two seasons. Physiological parameters and meteorological data were also registered. All the milk samples were measured for volume and analysed for: dry matter, total nitrogen, casein, ash, lactose, fat, milk fatty acid (FA) composition, number and diameter of the fat globules, and rheological parameters. There were not differences in the average diameter of the milk fat globules (2.27 ± 0.28 μm) and in milk gross composition between the two seasons, except for lactose which was significantly lower in summer. During summer a significant increase in some long-chain FAs such as CLA c9,t11, C18:1 t11, C18:0, C18:3 n3, C20:0, C22:0, C22:2 was observed, whereas short-chain FAs (C6:0, C8:0, C10:0), which are responsible for the development of unpleasant aromas, as well as monounsaturated C16:1, C17:1 c9, C20:1, C22:1 and polyunsaturated FAs C20:2, C20:3 n3 decreased. The average PUFA n6/PUFA n3 ratio was 1.7 and the lowest values were recorded in summer. In summer a worsening of the clot, which was less firm, was found. Environmental parameters were found to be linked to the milk FAs, while heart rate and skin temperature were negatively linked to milk yield and lactose, respectively.

Fatty acid profile in meat of culling ewes in different feedlot periods fed diets containing levels of inclusion of linseed

Linseed plays an important role in animal nutrition as it contains long-chain fatty acids in its composition, which, once absorbed, are incorporated into meat and milk. For evaluate the concentration of fatty acids in the Longissimus dorsi muscle of culling ewes fed diets containing levels of inclusion of linseed, 88 culling ewes were used with an average initial body weight of 37.65 ± 6.98 kg were distributed in a completely randomized design with 12 treatments. Treatments consisted of the interaction between levels of linseed (0, 5, 10, and 15%) and days in feedlot (30, 45, and 60). The most present fatty acids in the composition of the muscle L. dorsi were palmitic (27.32 g 100 g-1) and stearic (17.77 g 100 g-1). Saturated acids remained at low levels as the animals were fed greater levels of linseed, demonstrating the importance of introducing quality foods in animal feeding. Oleic acid was the most present monounsaturated fatty acid, with 40 g 100 g-1. Palmitoleic and elaidic fatty acids increased linearly as the linseed inclusion in the diet was increased. Polyunsaturated acids increased with the presence of linseed in the diet. For the linolenic acid (C18: 3n3), the best result was with inclusion of 10% of linseed in the total diet. All groups of animals that received linseed obtained better n6:n3 ratios, which varied from 1.81 to 4.14. The higher CLA values obtained in this study are related to the higher amounts of inclusion of linseed in the sheep diet, varying from 1.15 to 5.72 g 100 g-1. It is recommended culling ewes supplemented with inclusion of 10% linseed, for 60 days in feedlot, because they comprise a larger number of favorable traits regarding to the profile fatty acids of Longissimus dorsi.

Adherence to a Mediterranean-Style Diet and Its Influence on Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Postmenopausal Women

BackgroundA Mediterranean-style diet (MedSD) is associated with positive health outcomes, particularly reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. It is of interest to assess the feasibility of adherence to a MedSD in a subset of older adults in the United States. ObjectiveTo assess the efficacy of implementing a MedSD intervention in a subset of postmenopausal women living in the United States, and to detect the influence of this dietary pattern on blood lipid levels. DesignA partial feeding, nutrition counseling, pilot study with a one-group longitudinal design. ParticipantsSixteen healthy, postmenopausal, American women living in suburban communities in Farmington, CT, with a mean±standard deviation age of 77±6.8 years and a body mass index of 26.1±3.1. InterventionParticipants were counseled by a registered dietitian nutritionist on how to follow a MedSD, which included increased sources of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, fruits, and vegetables, and decreased saturated fat, n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and simple sugars for 12 weeks. To maintain isocaloric conditions, participants were asked to substitute sources of saturated fat and refined carbohydrates for extra virgin olive oil (3 T/day), walnuts (1.5 oz/day), and fatty fish (3 to 5 servings/wk), which were provided at 3-week intervals. Main outcome measuresDietary adherence measures included the Mediterranean Diet Score, 3-day diet records, and serum fatty acid and lipid profiles. Statistical analysesMixed model longitudinal analyses were conducted to assess changes over time (Weeks 0, 12, and 24) in the outcome variables. ResultsMediterranean Diet Score increased by 8.9 points (P<0.001) after the MedSD phase. Dietary sugar decreased by 10.8 g (P<0.05), total dietary n-3 increased by 1.6 g (P<0.01), total dietary n-6 increased by 5.5 g (P<0.01), and dietary n-6:n3 ratio decreased by 3.6 units (P<0.01). In serum, 22:6 (n-3), 20:5 (n-3), and 18:3 (n-3) increased (P<0.001, P<0.01, and P<0.001, respectively), and 14:0, 16:0, 17:0, 20:4 (n-6), 22:4 (n-6) declined after the intervention (P<0.01, P<0.001, P<0.01, P<0.01, and P<0.001, respectively), which support a change in dietary intake toward a MedSD. Serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels increased by 3.8 mg/dL (0.098 mmol/L) (P<0.05) and serum triglyceride levels decreased by 11.6 mg/dL (0.131 mmol/L) (P<0.10). ConclusionsA pilot study of a 12-week MedSD intervention with counseling from a registered dietitian nutritionist can favorably influence the dietary pattern and lipid profile of postmenopausal women living in the United States.

Carcass characteristics and meat quality of Hereford sired steers born to beef-cross-dairy and Angus breeding cows

Steers from Angus, Angus×Holstein Friesian, Angus×Holstein Friesian-Jersey and Angus×Jersey cows and a Hereford sire were measured for their carcass and meat quality characteristics. Steers from the Angus×Holstein Friesian cows had a greater final body weight and carcass weight (P<0.05). Steers from Angus×Jersey cows had the lowest carcass weight and dressing-out percentage (P<0.05). There was a greater fat depth over the rump at 12 and 18months of age for the steers from Angus cows (P<0.05) but, not at 24months of age. The steers had similar meat quality characteristics across the breed groups. Steers from Angus×Holstein Friesian and Angus×Jersey cows had a higher ratio of n6 to n3 fatty acids. Using beef-cross-dairy cows to produce steers for meat production does not impact on meat quality. Using Jersey in the breed cross reduced the carcass tissues in the live weight and the potential meat yield.

PH-Response Optimization of Amino-Substituted Tetraphenylporphyrin Derivatives as pH-Activatable Photosensitizers.

Amino-substituted tetraphenylporphyrin derivatives have been designed as pH-activatable photosensitizers for photodynamic cancer therapy. The photophysical processes of the monoamino-substituted derivative N1 and nonsubstituted derivative N0 have been studied. The quantum yields of the fluorescence and photosensitization of singlet oxygen by N1 were very low in the neutral condition (OFF state), but these quantum yields were recovered by adding acid (ON state). These changes were not observed for N0; therefore, N1 is expected to be applicable as a pH-activatable photosensitizer. The ON/OFF switching mechanism of N1 has also been clarified. To optimize the pH response, tri- and tetraamino-substituted derivatives (N3 and N4) have also been explored. The pH response intensified as the number of amino groups increased. Furthermore, the ON/OFF switching ratio of N3 was 100, which is quite high.

Effect of Plant Sources of Omega‐3 PUFA on Mood Status in Healthy Subjects: A Cross Over Feeding Trial

Study ObjectiveThe high prevalence of mood disturbance and inadequate efficacy of current antidepressants necessitates the search for more effective treatments. Omega‐3 PUFA may provide one such option. The aim of this paper is to test if changes in the ratio of dietary n6:n3 FA, and/or use of EPA/DHA algae supplement, is associated with changes in mood disturbance in healthy adults.MethodsThis was a tightly controlled, factorial design, randomized feeding trial (n=24) evaluating the effects of dietary intake of two n‐6:n‐3 PUFA ratios on mood states. The n‐6: n‐3 ratios of 10:1 and 2:1 in experimental diets were provided from plant sources. Subjects were randomized into 8‐week, cross‐over diet sequences where each subject consumed three of four dietary treatments: the two diets, with/without algae supplements. Subjects completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaires at the end of each 8‐week study period.ResultsSubject distress scores were within normal range throughout the duration of the study period. There was no statistically significant difference in DASS or POMS scores between the four diets. However there was a consistent tendency towards increased distress with the addition of algae supplement with summation of mood disturbance reaching significance. Change in dietary n‐6:n‐3 FA ratio did not play a role in mood disturbance. However, intake of EPA/DHA algae supplement resulted in increased overall mood disturbance as measured by DASS and POMS.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that EPA/DHA supplements may not be advisable for healthy adults.Support or Funding InformationFunded by the Center for Health and Nutrition Research, University of California, Davis

The effect of feeding system on slaughter-carcass characteristics, meat quality, and fatty acid composition of lambs

Abstract. In this study, we aimed to determine the slaughter-carcass characteristics, meat quality, and fatty acid composition in lambs raised under intensive and extensive conditions. The animal material consisted of 30 Norduz male lambs, with an average age of 171 days. The lambs were divided into two groups: concentrate-fed lambs (CO) and pasture-fed lambs (PS). The results showed that the CO lambs had heavier carcasses (p&lt; 0.001), a higher dressing percentage (p&lt; 0.001), and higher intramuscular fat (p&lt; 0.01) than the PS lambs. It was determined that the longissimus thoracis muscle of the CO lambs had a lower ultimate pH and higher L* and water-holding capacity than the PS lambs. In this study, intramuscular fat (longissimus thoracis, semimembranosus, triceps brachii), subcutaneous and tail fat samples were used to evaluate the effect of feeding system on fatty acid composition. The polyunsaturated fatty acid to saturated fatty acid ratio (PUFA ∕ SFA) of intramuscular fat was found to be significantly higher in the CO group than in the PS lambs, while similar subcutaneous and tail fat results were found in both groups. Moreover, the PS lambs had a lower n6 ∕ n3 ratio and higher percentage of omega-3 than the CO lambs in all tissues studied (p&lt; 0.05). Overall, the CO lambs have heavier and fattier carcasses with better meat quality traits than the PS lambs. However, the effects of feeding system have varying results based on the fatty acid composition of different types of fat deposits.

Damascus kids’ slaughter, carcass and meat quality traits in different production systems using antioxidant supplementation

This study intended to investigate slaughter, carcass and meat quality characteristics of Damascus male kids reared under different production systems and antioxidant effect (Vit E). The kids, housed in pen groups and grazing groups, were equally divided for production systems and later each group was again equally divided for determination of Vit E effect. Production systems and Vit E were found to have no significant effect on slaughter and carcass traits. Differences between production systems were found significant for meat pH24, water holding capacity, cooking loss, tenderness, ether-extractable lipid and some color characteristics and concentrate feed supplemented with Vit E was effective on TBARS values. Each of the fatty acids except C18:2 n6 was affected by the production system but Vit E influence was superior on long-chain fatty acids. Grazing kids had a lower percentage of total SFA, n6, n6/n3, AI and TI ratio, while kids housed in pens had the lowest percentage of total UFA, NV and n3 ratio. On the other hand, kids that consumed supplemental Vit E had a higher percentage of total UFA, ratio of UFA/SFA, n3 and lower percentage of SFA, ratio of n6/n3, AI, TI compared to the kids fed by non-supplemental concentrate feed with Vit E. In accordance with the meat fatty acid composition, meat obtained from the kids that grazed and consumed supplemental Vit E was healthier than that of those housed in pen kids and non-supplemental Vit E consumed kids.

Tissue composition, quality traits and fatty acid profile of longissimus muscle of lambs fed increasing levels of crude glycerin

The objective of this study was to evaluate the tissue composition, quality traits and fatty acid profile of longissimus muscle of lambs fed increasing levels of crude glycerin. Twenty-four intact male lambs were allocated in a completely randomized design with four treatments and six replicates. The treatments consisted of the replacement of corn with 0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5% crude glycerin (dry matter basis) in the diet. The animals were slaughtered when they reached a body condition score of 2.5 to 3.0. After cooling the carcasses, the meat was removed for the determination of tissue composition and longissimus muscle for the evaluation of quality characteristics. The different crude glycerin levels did not affect tissue weight or yield, or the qualitative characteristics of longissimus muscle. An increasing linear effect was observed for ether extract. There was a quadratic effect on C17:0 fatty acids, and C18:1 n-9c and C18:3 n-3 fatty acids decreased linearly. A quadratic effect was observed for total unsaturated fatty acids and a linear decreasing effect for n-3 fatty acids. The unsaturated:saturated fatty acid ratio decreased linearly and there was an increasing linear effect on the n6:n3 ratio. Crude glycerin can replace corn without compromising tissue composition and quality traits of longissimus muscle. The inclusion of up to 7.5% crude glycerin (dry matter basis) in the diet for Pantaneiro lambs improves the nutritional aspects of fat.

Effect of Dietary Incorporation of Fish Oil on Performance, Carcass Characteristics, Meat Fatty Acid Profile and Sensory Attributes of Meat in Broiler Chickens

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of omega-3 (n-3) fatty acid (FA) rich fish oil (FO) supplementation to broiler chicks during finisher (21–42 days) phase on performance, carcass characteristics, meat fatty acid profile and sensory attributes of meat in broiler chickens. A total of 240, one-day-old Krishibro broiler chicks were reared under uniform managemental conditions in battery brooder during starter (1–21 days) phase. At 21 days of age, the broiler chicks were individually weighed and distributed into 40 replicates with 6 birds per replicate. Basal finisher (3000 kcal ME/kg and 20% CP) diet (control) was prepared using sunflower oil (SFO) at 3% level. Subsequently 3 test diets were prepared to contain 2% SFO and 1% fish oil (FO), 1% SFO and 2% FO or 3% FO. Fish oil supplementation at either 2 or 3% in the diets significantly improved the body weight gain in broiler chickens. The relative carcass parameters were not affected due to dietary incorporation of FO in the diet. However, abdominal fat contents were significantly reduced by incorporating 2 or 3% FO in the diet. The saturated fatty acid content decreased and poly unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content increased linearly in breast and thigh meat by replacement of SFO with FO at graded levels. The dietary replacement of SFO with FO completely resulted in an increase in the accumulation of n-3 long chain PUFA particularly LNA, EPA and DHA in the muscle tissues. The highest concentration of n-3 FA and lowest concentration of n-6 FA in breast and thigh meat was observed in the diet where LO was completely replaced with FO in the diet. The ratio of n6 to n-3 FA also decreased linearly with increasing the levels of FO in the diet. The sensory attributes in the cooked meat as judged by the sensory panel were not adversely affected by dietary incorporation of fish oil (upto 3%) in the diet of broiler chickens. It is concluded that dietary incorporation of FO at 3% level during finisher phase enriched the meat with n-3 FA without affecting the sensory attributes of meat; in addition, it improved the bird's performance.

Effects of Direct-fed Microbial and Pine Cone Extract on Carcass Traits and Meat Quality of Hanwoo (Korean Native Cattle).

The carcass traits and meat quality of Hanwoo (Korean native cattle) whose diets were supplemented with direct-fed microbial (DFM) and pine cone extract (PCE) were evaluated. Twenty head of Hanwoo steers were divided equally into four groups and for a period of 6 months were given different diets: One group was fed a basal diet as control (CON), the other three groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with DFM-1%, DFM+PCE-1% and DFM+PEC-3%, respectively. DFM+PCE3% diet resulted the lowest carcass quality grade. The loins of DFM-1% contained higher moisture and lower fat than did the loins from the CON group. The crude protein content of DFM+PCE-3% group was significantly higher than that of the other groups. The water holding capacity and Warner-Bratzler shear force of the DFM+PCE-1% and 3% groups were lower than those of the CON and DFM-1% groups. The DFM-1% and 3% groups contained lower saturated fatty acid, higher unsaturated fatty acid, mono-unsaturated fatty acid, and poly-unsaturated fatty acid than did CON and DFM+PCE 1% group. Moreover, the n6:n3 ratios of DFM-1% and DFM+PCE-1% and 3% groups were slightly lower than that of the CON group. Thus we concluded that DFM and PCE supplementation resulted healthier Hanwoo beef with lower fat content and n6:n3 ratio.

Healthy Pork Production through Dietary n6:n3 Ratio Regulation

&lt;p&gt;The meat fat fatty acid composition could influent consumer health. Thus, this study was though dietary n-6:n-3 ratio regulation to production healthy pork. The experiment was used eighty LYD pigs that average weight was 66.5 kg (half male and half female) divide into five groups, they are lard group (L), soybean oil group (SO), commercial fish product group (CFP), canola oil group (CO), and 50% fish oil and 50% canola oil group (FCO) with 4 replicates, this experiment was lasted for 90 days. Experimental results indicated that the growth performances was no difference among groups; serum cholesterol, LDL and LDL-C were lower, meanwhile HDL was higher (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in FCO group than in control group. Back fat thickness, pork color, water holding capacity and meat fat content show no difference among groups. TBARS test on pork storage for 15 days in SO group was significantly higher (P &amp;lt; 0.05) than CO group. The n-6:n-3 ratio of back and belly fat in CFP, FCO and CO groups were significantly lower (P &amp;lt; 0.05) than in lard group. Panel evaluation score in SO group was significantly better (P &amp;lt; 0.05) than CO group in flavor, texture, juicy and total acceptance in longissmus muscle, but no difference in belly meat. In conclusion, the pork n-6: n-3 ratio was decreased with CFP, FCO, and CO supplementation, feeding pigs with low n-6:n-3 ratio fat could production healthy pork for consumers.&lt;/p&gt;

Viability of tallow inclusion in Atlantic salmon diet, as assessed by an on-farm grow out trial

The results of a recent increase in research interest directed at the inclusion of tallow in fish feed formulations are suggesting tallow is viable as a potential substitute for other alternative lipid sources such as poultry by-product oil. Although strong growth performance data has been shown, reservations still exist regarding reduced digestibility and the potential impacts this could have on performance over the duration of a grow-out period in low temperature conditions. Also little information is yet available on the potential effect of dietary tallow inclusion on final product quality. A large scale farm based study testing the inclusion of tallow at 40% inclusion, partially replacing poultry by-product oil, in commercial diets of Atlantic salmon over a winter grow-out period in southern Tasmania, Australia was conducted. Tallow inclusion had no impact on growth performance or nutrient digestibility. Tallow resulted in a slight improvement in fillet quality exhibiting a significant reduction in n−6 PUFA and the n6:n3 ratio, and an increased n−3LC-PUFA tissue deposition. Consumers were unable to display any preference in liking between 3 salmon products (cold smoked, hot smoked, and cooked) as a result of tallow inclusion. This study demonstrates the viability of partial inclusion of tallow in Atlantic salmon diets over a winter grow-out period. Statement of relevanceImproved knowledge of alternative dietary energy sources (oils and fats) to be used in aquafeed, (replacing the increasingly expensive, and diminishingly available, fish oil) is a key area of research towards improved environmental sustainability and economic viability of the aquaculture sector. Following a promising laboratory based, research scale, in vivo trial aimed at assessing the viability of tallow in salmon feed, a larger and longer duration farm-based trial was implemented to validate initial findings. Consumer test of final products (fresh–cooked, hot smoked and cold smoked fillets) showed no modification of sensorial attributes. Tallow is hereto shown to be a highly viable alternative oil for the salmon aquafeed industry.

Investigation of the relationship between arterial stiffness and sleep architecture in patients with essential hypertension

A change in sleep architecture might increase the risk of hypertension and worsen target organs. This study thus aimed to study the features of sleep architecture and examine its relationship with pulse wave velocity (PWV), a measure of arterial stiffness, in patients with essential hypertension and healthy people aged 45–65 years (n = 106). We collected data on demographics, the serum index, overnight polysomnography, vascular testing and ambulatory blood pressure in addition to measuring arterial stiffness and monitoring sleep respiration. We found that patients with hypertension had longer sleep latency and shorter duration. Their sleep efficiency and the ratio of N3 in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement were lower, while the micro-arousal index (MI), N1 and N2 in NREM, and the apnea-hypopnea index were higher than normal people in controls. PWV raised with a decrease in N3 and an increase in the MI. In summary, there were notable changes in sleep architecture and with a decrease in N3 and increase in MI can accelerate arterial stiffness and then worsen target organ damage in patients with hypertension.

The use of faba bean and sweet lupin seeds in fattening lamb feed. 2. Effects on meat quality and fatty acid composition

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of using faba bean and lupin seeds used singly or in association as protein sources in the diet of fattening lambs. The physical and chemical characteristics of the meat and its fatty acid composition were investigated.Twenty-four “Gentile di Puglia” male lambs, weaned at 38±2 days of age and at an average initial body weight of 15.8±0.5kg (mean±sd), were divided into three homogeneous groups (n=8) and fed for 8 weeks with three different experimental diets: FB containing 300g/kg diet (on as fed basis) of faba bean seeds; FB+L containing 150g/kg diet of faba bean seeds plus 150g/kg diet of lupin seeds; L containing 250g/kg diet of lupin seeds. Three types of pelleted total mixed rations were formulated to be isonitrogenous and isocaloric. Meat chemical composition, pH, colour and Warner-Bratzler Shear Force were not influenced by dietary treatment. Analysis of the intramuscular fat showed a higher percentage of the saturated fatty acid (SFA) myristic acid (C14:0) in the meat of L lambs than in FB and FB+L (7.13 vs 4.41–4.71%; P<0.05); comparison of the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) percentages showed that the faba bean diet gave higher levels of linoleic acid (C18:2 n-6 cis9, cis12) than lupin (3.35 vs 2.44%; P<0.05) and lower levels (0.31 vs 0.39%; P<0.05) of linolenic acid (C18:3 n-3). The n-6/n3 ratio and the thrombogenicity index were not influenced by diet, whereas the atherogenicity index was lower, and therefore better, when lambs were fed the faba bean diet in comparison with the lupin diet (0.89 vs 1.29; P<0.05). In general, for the parameters we studied, the use of lupin in association with faba gave intermediate values, without any significant differences compared to those for the protein sources used singly. In conclusion, the diet containing lupin had a negative effect on fatty acid composition of the intramuscular fat, while this effect was mitigated by the use of lupin+faba in association.