Nutritional Supplements Research Articles

Unlocking 3D printing technology for microalgal production and application

AbstractMicroalgae offer a promising alternative for sustainable nutritional supplements and functional food ingredients and hold potential to meet the growing demand for nutritious and eco-friendly food alternatives. With the escalating impacts of global climate change and increasing human activities, microalgal production must be enhanced by reducing freshwater and land use and minimizing carbon emissions. The advent of 3D printing offers novel opportunities for optimizing microalgae production, though it faces challenges such as high production costs and scalability concerns. This work aims to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in 3D-printed bioreactors for microalgal production, focusing on 3D printing techniques, bio-ink types, and their applications across environmental, food, and medical fields. This review highlights the benefits of 3D-printed bioreactors, including improved mass transfer, optimized light exposure, enhanced biomass yield, and augmented photosynthesis. Current challenges and future directions of 3D printing in microalgal production are also discussed to offer new insights into boosting microalgal cultivation efficiency for expanded applications.

Social media content analysis for nutraceuticals and glaucoma.

Google and various social media platforms have content on the therapeutic potential of nutritional supplements for glaucoma, but whether that information is evidence-based has not been analyzed. The current study explores such content for its quality. Criteria of search used were "glaucoma" and "vitamins" or "nutraceuticals" or "nutritional supplements". The first 30 search results on Google for every keyword combination were determined. The top 30 video results on Facebook Watch and YouTube for each keyword combination were selected. The initial 30 posts from Reddit and the top 30 Images on Google Images related to the keyword combination were also examined. Sixty-eight websites on Google, 75 Images from Google, 39 YouTube videos, 12 video results from Facebook Watch, and 19 posts from Reddit were identified and assessed for quality.The average Sandvik scores were 10.86 ± 2.6 (Google webpages), 10.08 ± 1.9 (YouTube videos), 10.62 ± 1.6 (Facebook Watch), and 10.26 ± 2.8 (Posts from Reddit). The average Risk Scores were 0.67 ± 0.9 (videos from YouTube), 0.49 ± 0.8 (webpages on Google), 0.33 ± 0.5 (videos from Facebook Watch), and 0.26 ± 0.5 (Reddit). The mean HON code scores were 5.15 ± 1.5 (YouTube), 6 ± 1.7 (Google webpages), 4.42 ± 1.1 (Facebook Watch), and 3.47 ± 1.8 (Reddit). Many patients who seek information online do not consult their physicians to verify the accuracy of their search results. Thus, with this changing trend, video and online medical content analysis has attracted interest. Search engines and social media platforms may serve as adjuncts for patient counseling in current care models by providing an online educational community. Compared to non-healthcare professionals, the healthcare professionals' information regarding nutraceuticals/nutritional supplements in glaucoma is of higher quality. Most HCPs do not recommend the use of dietary supplements as a complementary treatment for glaucoma, either because of inconclusive/insufficient data or due to contrasting studies that contradict each other. However, literature is building up with each passing day, to support nutritional supplementation as an integrative IOP-independent strategy for glaucoma management. The information provided by healthcare professionals is superior to that offered by non-healthcare professionals. Most HCPs advise against the use of nutritional supplements as an adjunct therapy for glaucoma, either because of inconclusive data or due to contrasting studies that contradict each other.

Maternal Nutrition and Human Milk Nutrients

Abstract Purpose: To explore the influence of maternal nutrition factors, including body mass index, nutritional supplementation, and dietary intake during the breastfeeding period, on macro and micronutrient composition in human milk. Study Design and Methods: We conducted a scoping review using the PRISMA-ScR checklist, initially identifying 5,984 original studies published in the English language from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science that presented findings on the association of maternal nutritional factors on human milk nutrient composition. After screening the title and abstract, we selected 69 studies for full review, including 3 studies found through checking reference lists. After full review, we included 23 studies in this scoping review. Results: Most studies found maternal body mass index and supplement consumption affected human milk macro and micronutrient composition, whereas inconsistent results were found on the relationship between maternal diet and human milk nutrients. Methodologies varied substantially across studies, especially for milk sample collection methods and maternal nutrition assessments. Clinical implications: Maternal nutrition factors may affect levels of human milk nutrients, requiring maternal nutrition monitoring during breastfeeding. However, given the considerable variability in the results between studies and methodological approaches, further studies should use standardized and validated procedures to strengthen the findings on this topic.

Myricetin inhibits CYP3A4, GST, and MRP1 in hepatic cancer cells

AbstractHerbal and nutritional supplements are widely used to prevent and treat many diseases, including cancer. Tumor cells modify metabolic enzyme systems like CYP3A4 and GST. They also overexpress MRP1, an ATP-binding cassette transporter subfamily G (ABCG2) member. Drug efflux may increase, reducing tumor cell drug accumulation and developing drug resistance that leads to significant obstacles in cancer care. Natural products' ability to overcome cancer's multidrug resistance is interesting. Their ability to affect several targets makes them valuable in addressing drug resistance from diverse approaches. The potential of natural flavonoid; Myricetin (MYR) to modulate CYP3A4, GST, and MRP1 activity and expression in hepatic cancer cells was evaluated to prove its targeting and preventing these pathways of multidrug resistance. The cell proliferation of MYR was determined using an MTT assay. Specific enzyme assays, efflux assay, and gene expression using RT-PCR were used to evaluate MYR effect in hepatic cell lines HepG-2 and Huh-7. MYR has a noteworthy cytotoxic effect compared to doxorubicin (DOX) with IC50 > 100 μM in HepG-2 and Huh-7 cells. MYR showed potent inhibition of CYP3A4 and GST enzyme activity and MRP1 efflux function and downregulated their gene expression in a dose-dependent manner in both cells. MYR100 dose was the most significant effective dose. MRY100 decreased CYP3A4 activity by 67.5% (P < 0.05) and 55% (P < 0.01) and downregulated the gene by 0.2-fold (P < 0.001) and 0.3-fold (P < 0.001) in HepG-2 and Hub-7 cells, respectively. After treatment with MRY100, GST activity decreased significantly in both cells, reaching 47.6% (P < 0.001) and 33.2% and GST gene downregulation was 0.12 and 0.21-fold (P < 0.001). MRY100 inhibited MRP1 efflux pump 2.3 times (P < 0.001) and 1.9 times (P < 0.001) more effectively than PC, resulting in a 0.23-fold and 0.12-fold downregulation of MRP1 genes in HepG-2 and Hub-7 cells. The result will validate the use of MYR to interact with the metabolism phases and could be used as adjuvant therapy in cancer prevention and treatment approaches.

Effects of 8days intake of hydrogen-rich water on muscular endurance performance and fatigue recovery during resistance training.

Exercise-induced oxidative stress and inflammation can impair muscular function in humans. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of molecular hydrogen (H2) highlight its potential to be as an effective nutritional supplement to support muscular function performance in healthy adults. However, the effects of H2 supplementation on muscular endurance performance in trained individuals have not been well characterized. This study aimed to assess the effects of intermittent hydrogen-rich water (HRW) supplementation before, during, and after resistance training on muscular endurance performance, neuromuscular status, and subjective perceptual responses after a 48-h recovery period. This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled cross-over study included 18 trained men aged 19.7 ± 0.9years. Participants in this study were instructed to consume 1,920mL of HRW or pure water (Placebo) daily for 7days. Additionally, participants were required to supplement with HRW or pure water five times during the training day (1,260mL total). This included drinking 210mL 30min and 1min before training, 210mL between training sets, 210mL immediately after training, and 420mL 30min into the recovery period. Participants performed half-squat exercises with the load set at 70% of one repetition maximum for six sets (half-squat exercise performed to repetitions failure each set). We measured the power output and number of repetitions in the free barbell half-squat used to assess muscular endurance performance in participants. The countermovement jump (CMJ) height, total quality recovery scale (TQRS), and muscle soreness visual analog scale (VAS) scores were measured to assess fatigue recovery status after training, as well as at 24 and 48h of recovery. The total power output (HRW: 50,866.7 ± 6,359.9W, Placebo: 46,431.0 ± 9,376.5W, p = 0.032) and the total number of repetitions (HRW:78.2 ± 9.5 repetitions, Placebo: 70.3 ± 9.5 repetitions, p = 0.019) in the H2 supplemented group were significantly higher than in the placebo group. However, there was no statistically significant difference (p< 0.05) between the H2 and placebo groups in CMJ, TQRS, and VAS. Eight days of intermittent HRW intake could significantly improve muscular endurance performance in trained individuals, making it a promising strategy for athletes or fitness enthusiasts looking to boost muscular endurance during resistance training or competitions. However, it should be noted that HRW intake alone may not be adequate to accelerate recovery from muscle soreness or fatigue following high-intensity training.

HEAT TOLERANCE INDEX IN DAIRY GOATS: CLASS REPORT

To evaluate the influence of the environment on the behavioral and physiological parameters of Saanen and alpine brown goats, disciplinary work was carried out in which a field experiment was conducted, in the municipality of Lajes do Cabugi, Rio Grande do Norte, on the Três property. Brothers, which is a dairy goat production farm. The adaptation of animals to the breeding environment is an important factor for them to have good health and achieve greater productivity, which is one of the objectives of the action of veterinarians, acting preventively (SOUZA et al., 2010; LOPES et al., 2012). When academics participate in pedagogical activities, they develop and prepare more completely for professional life. During the pedagogy, two specimens of each breed were used and observed over a 90-day interval. The following sequence of observations was adopted: 1st observation carried out at 9 am and the 2nd observation was carried out at 3 pm. All animals were female and carried out their normal grazing activities. The animals had access to pasture under identical conditions, as well as access to nutritional supplementation when they returned to the pen at night. The rectal and environmental temperature variables were recorded at 9:00 am and 3:00 pm, and these were used by applying them in the ITC formula (1.0 ta – 20 d +60) (FERREIRA, 2011). The average results obtained were 32.67ºC for room temperature; rectal temperature of the Saanen and alpine brown in the morning and afternoon, respectively, were 40.18ºC and 39.95ºC in the morning; 39.8ºC and 39.75ºC in the afternoon. It was concluded, with the results obtained during the field classes, that the Saanen presented better results compared to the alpine brown for the edaphoclimatic conditions of the property where the research work was carried out. Pedagogically, this activity carried out in the field increases the learning efficiency of veterinary medicine students and favors their better training, reflecting the community's desires and everyone's well-being.

6805 Impact of Feeding Types on Catch-Up Growth in Early Infancy Among Small-for-Gestational-Age Infants: A Nationwide Korean Study

Abstract Disclosure: J. Choi: None. Y. Choe: None. S. Yang: None. Purpose: The study aimed to compare growth patterns and catch-up growth (CUG) in small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infants up to age four, based on feeding type during the first 4-6 months, using nationwide data. Methods: A total of 42,295 children born SGA (21,917 boys, 52.%) who underwent the first (4-6 month), 2nd (9-12 month), 3rd (18-24 month) and 5th (42-48 month) National Health Screening Program for Infants and Children (NHSPIC) under the National Health Insurance Service from 2007 to 2014 were included. The study population was categorized into two groups based on the primary milk feeding type recorded in the self-reported questionnaire during the first round of NHSPIC: the ”Breastfed”group, and the "Formula-fed" group. Catch-up growth (CUG) was defined as a Height Standard Deviation Score (Ht SDS) of 3rd percentile or above at the 5th NHSPIC visits. We used propensity scores to 1:1 match breastfed and formula-fed group based on sex, birth weight, cesarean section, socioeconomic status, residance. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of milk feeding type on CUG at 4 years of age. Results: 49.1% of infants (n = 20,774) were breastfed and 50.9% (n = 21,521) were formula-fed. The median birth weight was 2.7 kg (interquartile range: 2.5-2.9 kg), and 98.7% of the children (n = 41,752) achieved CUG by the 5th NHSPIC round. Following propensity score matching, both groups included 19,308 infants. At four years of age, the breastfed group showed a lower likelihood of achieving CUG compared to the formula-fed group (aOR 0.794, 95% CI 0.665-0.948). During the 1st NHSPIC round, the breastfed group had a significantly lower weight Z-score (mean: -0.05, range: -0.64 to 0.41) than the formula-fed group (mean: 0.14, range: -0.42 to 0.78, p &amp;lt; 0.001). This trend was more pronounced from the 1st to 2nd round, with greater decreases in both weight and height Z-scores for the breastfed group (weight difference: -0.36, range: -0.74 to 0.02; height difference: -0.21, range: -0.62 to 0.20) compared to the formula-fed group (weight difference: -0.17, range: -0.53 to 0.20; height difference: -0.13, range: -0.53 to 0.28, p &amp;lt; 0.001). However, from the 2nd round, the breastfed group demonstrated faster gains in both weight and height (p &amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusion : In a study of Korean SGA infants, those breastfed during the first 4-6 months post-birth had lower CUG rates at four years compared to formula-fed infants. The breastfed group exhibited less weight and height gain, especially between the 1st and 2nd NHSPIC rounds, aligning with the initial phase of solid food introduction. These findings may suggest the need for enhanced nutritional supplementation for breastfed SGA infants. Further research is necessary to explore other factors that may impact growth during this critical developmental period. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Exposure to bisphenols, parabens, and benzophenones in colostrum breast milk of Panamanian women: A pilot study from the PA-MAMI cohort

BackgroundBreast milk is the optimal source of nutrition for infants but can also expose them to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), among other environmental contaminants. AimTo determine concentrations of non-persistent phenolic EDCs (three bisphenols, four parabens [PBs], and six benzophenones [BPs]), in colostrum samples from Panamanian mothers and to examine associated reproductive, sociodemographic, and life-style factors. MethodsDispersive liquid–liquid microextraction was used to measure concentrations of bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol F (BPF), bisphenol S (BPS), methyl- (MeP), ethyl- (EtP), propyl- (n-PrP), and butyl-paraben (n-BuP), and benzophenones BP-1, BP-2, BP-3, BP-6, BP-8, and 4-hydroxy-BP in colostrum milk samples from 36 mothers. An ad hoc questionnaire was used to collect data on potential influentially variables, and multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were conducted. ResultsTwo or more tested EDCs were detected in 36 colostrum samples (100 %), at least four in 14 samples (38.9 %), and at least six in 4 samples (11.1 %). The most frequently detected compounds were BPA (91.7 %), BP-8 (63.9 %), MeP (47.2 %), and BPF (41.7 %). The median concentration was 3.45 ng/mL for BP-8 and 1.37 ng/mL for BPA. No concentrations of n-PrP, BP-1, BP-6, or 4-hydroxy-BP were detected. Associations were observed between phenolic EDC concentrations and maternal place of residence, consumption frequency of poultry, fish, fresh cheese, fruit, yogurt and chocolate, intake of nutritional supplements, and application of some personal care products. ConclusionsBisphenols, parabens, and benzophenones were widely present in colostrum milk samples from Panamanian women. Preventive measures are needed to maximize the benefits of breastfeeding.

Oligotrophic state reduces the time dependence of the observed survival fraction for heavy ion beam-irradiated Saccharomyces cerevisiae and provides new insights into DNA repair.

Heavy ion beam (HIB) irradiation is widely utilized in studies of cosmic rays-induced cellular effects and microbial breeding. Establishing an accurate dose-survival relationship is crucial for selecting the optimal irradiation dose. Typically, after irradiating logarithmic-phase cell suspensions with HIB, the survival fraction (SF) is determined by the ratio of clonal-forming units in irradiated versus control groups. However, our findings indicated that SF measurements were time sensitive. For the Saccharomyces cerevisiae model, the observed SF initially declined and subsequently increased in a eutrophic state; conversely, in an oligotrophic state, it remained relatively stable within 120 minutes. This time effect of SF observations in the eutrophic state can be ascribed to HIB-exposed cells experiencing cell cycle arrest, whereas the control proliferated rapidly, resulting in an over-time disproportionate change in viable cell count. Therefore, an alternative involves irradiating oligotrophic cells, determining SF thereafter, and transferring cells to the eutrophic state to facilitate DNA repair-mutation. Transcriptomic comparisons under these two trophic states yield valuable insights into the DNA damage response. Although DNA repair was postponed in an oligotrophic state, cells proactively mobilized specific repair pathways to advance this process. Effective nutritional supplementation should occur within 120 minutes, beyond this window, a decline in SF indicates an irreversible loss of repair capability. Upon transition to the eutrophic state, S. cerevisiae swiftly adapted and completed the repair. This study helps to minimize time-dependent variability in SF observations and to ensure effective damage repair and mutation in microbial breeding using HIB or other mutagens. It also promotes the understanding of microbial responses to complex environments.IMPORTANCEMutation breeding is a vital means of developing excellent microbial resources. Consequently, understanding the mechanisms through which microorganisms respond to complex environments characterized by mutagens and specific physiological-biochemical states holds significant theoretical and practical values. This study utilized Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a microbial model and highly efficient heavy ion beam (HIB) radiation as a mutagen, it revealed the time dependence of observations of survival fractions (SF) in response to HIB radiation and proposed an alternative to avoid the indeterminacy that this variable brings. Meanwhile, by incorporating an oligotrophic state into the alternative, this study constructed a dynamic map of gene expression during the fast-repair and slow-repair stages. It also highlighted the influence of trophic states on DNA repair. The findings apply to the survival-damage repair-mutation effects of single-celled microorganisms in response to various mutagens and contribute to elucidating the biological mechanisms underlying microbial survival in complex environments.

Factors Affecting Yeast Digestibility and Immunostimulation in Aquatic Animals.

The aquafeed industry increasingly relies on using sustainable and appropriate protein sources to ensure the long-term sustainability and financial viability of intensive aquaculture. Yeast has emerged as a viable substitute protein source in the aquaculture sector due to its potential as a nutritional supplement. A substantial body of evidence exists to suggest that yeast has the potential to act as an effective immune-stimulating agent for a range of aquaculture fish species. Furthermore, the incorporation of yeast supplements and feed additives has the potential to bolster disease prevention, development, and production within the aquaculture sector. Except for methionine, lysine, arginine, and phenylalanine, which are typically the limiting essential amino acids in various fish species, the various yeast species exhibit amino acid profiles that are advantageous when compared to fishmeal. The present review considers the potential nutritional suitability of several yeast species for fish, with particular attention to the various applications of yeast in aquaculture nutrition. The findings of this study indicate that the inclusion of yeast in the diet resulted in the most favorable outcomes, with improvements observed in the overall health, growth performance, and nutritional condition of the fish. Digestibility, a key factor in sustainable feed development, is discussed in special detail. Additionally, this review addresses the utilization of yeast as an immunostimulating agent for fish and its digestion in fish. Furthermore, the research emphasizes the necessity of large-scale production of yeast as a substitute for fishmeal in aquaculture.

Network pharmacology-based strategy to reveal the mechanism of pinocembrin against ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer stands as the foremost cause of mortality among gynaecological diseases globally, characterized by high morbidity and mortality. Pinocembrin, a flavonoid from natural plant sources, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties. Despite its known pharmacological activities, its specific role in ovarian cancer treatment remains scarcely reported, and its precise molecular mechanism remains elusive. This study integrates network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques to explore pinocembrin's potential mechanism in ovarian cancer treatment. The targets of pinocembrin were compiled from the several online databases. Ovarian cancer targets were identified using the GeneCards database, with common target genes determined by data aggregation. Protein-protein interactions were analysed using the STRING platform. Subsequent Gene Ontology functional annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses were performed. Molecular docking assessed the binding affinity between potential targets and active compounds. Finally, target validity was verified through in vitro experiments. We identified 163 potential pinocembrin targets for ovarian cancer treatment. GO and KEGG analyses revealed pinocembrin's involvement in protein kinase activity, protein phosphorylation, protein kinase complexes and cancer pathways in ovarian cancer treatment. Molecular docking demonstrated strong binding affinity between pinocembrin and most potential target active sites. In vitro experiments suggested pinocembrin's potential to induce apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells through the AKT1-mTOR signalling pathway. This study comprehensively elucidates pinocembrin's potential targets and mechanisms against ovarian cancer, aiming to provide promising candidates for developing novel and effective alternative and/or complementary nutritional supplements for the clinical treatment of ovarian cancer.

Posyandu's Contribution to Reducing Stunting Prevalence in the Community

The general background stunting is a health problem that can reduce the quality of human resources, and the role of posyandu is very important in its management. Specific background this research focuses on Wunut Village in Porong District, where the prevalence of stunting is a major concern. Knowledge Gap: Although many studies on stunting exist, the specific role of posyandu in the local context has been less explored. Aims this study to analyze the role of posyandu in reducing the prevalence of stunting in Wunut Village. Results this study posyandu as a motivator, facilitator, and mobilizer in increasing community awareness and access to health services related to stunting. Posyandu has successfully invited the community to actively participate in health activities and provided services such as growth monitoring and distribution of nutritional supplements. Novelty this research highlights the tangible contributions of posyandu in the local context, providing new insights into community-based approaches to addressing stunting. Implications these findings indicate the importance of strengthening posyandu as a health institution in stunting reduction efforts and the need for continuous support from the government and community to enhance the effectiveness of health programs. Highlights: Posyandu serves as a motivator, encouraging community participation in health activities. Facilitates access to basic health services and nutritional support for mothers and children. Highlights the importance of community-based approaches in addressing stunting issues. Keywords: Posyandu, Stunting, Community Health, Nutritional Support, Health Services

Correlation of immunological variables of interleukin-17 and heat shock protein-70 in ethnic women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance resulting from high levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in females, leading to immature eggs, ovarian cysts, irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, excessive facial hair growth, and acne. Objective: This study was conducted to follow up the therapeutic effect on some blood, hormonal, and immune variables of samples consisting of 35 patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) from women suffering from infertility and infertility, and who visited Azadi Teaching Hospital and private laboratories in Kirkuk city, their ages ranged between (18 - 40 years). Materials and Methods: Sample collection and follow-up began by observing some clinical signs in addition to verifying the results of ultrasound examinations from early February 2023 to early November 2023. Each patient’s examinations were followed up before treatment and three months after taking the treatment. The results we obtained after three months of treatment were compared with the results of the examinations of the patients in the pre-treatment stage and the control group. The treatment plan was based on modifying the patient's dietary lifestyle by following a healthy diet and giving treatment consisting of oral contraceptives, fertility drugs and the use of sugar-reducing drugs such as Glucophage or Metformin, in addition to nutritional supplements such as antioxidants. Result: The results of the therapeutic effect on the patients' diagnostic clinical signs showed a significant decrease in their percentages after three months of treatment compared to the pre-treatment stage such as (ovulation disorders - menstrual disorders - obesity - hirsutism - acne -). The results of the statistical analysis of the study showed that the therapeutic effect showed a significant difference in the body mass index (BMI) after three months of treatment compared to the pre-treatment stage and the control group. The therapeutic effect of the immune factors for each Hast Shock protein 70 and Interleukin-17 also showed a significant decrease at the level (0.000 &gt; p) respectively after three months of taking the treatment compared to the pre-treatment stage and the control group. It was found that there is a significant positive correlation between the level of Heat Shock Protein 70 and the cellular kinetic IL-17.

Use of oral nutritional supplements

Malnutrition – specifically undernutrition – is a state in which a deficiency of energy, protein and other nutrients causes adverse effects on the body, its function and clinical outcomes. Malnutrition can be disease-related or caused by social factors; the two are often inter-related. More than 3 million people in the UK are malnourished or ‘at risk’ of malnutrition, 93% of whom reside in the community. It commonly affects older people and those with certain medical conditions. With a pivotal role in providing care in secondary and community settings, prescribers are increasingly involved in quality improvement programmes to manage malnutrition, including the appropriate use of oral nutritional supplements. This article seeks to improve understanding of the impact of malnutrition on individuals and the wider healthcare economy, identification of those at risk and the effective use of oral nutrition support.

Regulatory compliance of taurine containing food products marketed in India using a validated method: A pilot study

Taurine is an important functional food ingredient found in infant food, nutritional supplements and energy drinks. Concerns about the safety and quality of these products have prompted enhanced regulatory interest and enforcement. This study aimed to investigate regulatory compliance of taurine, in selected food products available in the Indian market. To assess compliance, a liquid chromatography method based on post-column derivatization with ninhydrin for the determination of taurine was validated for selectivity, accuracy, precision, linearity range, limit of detection, recovery and analysis of certified reference material. Excellent sensitivity, reproducibility and selectivity were achieved. The limit of detection and limit of quantification for the method was 0.0014 mg/100 mL and 0.0044 mg/100 mL, respectively. The overall percentage recoveries ranged from 95 % to 98 %. A total of 26 different products were analysed for their taurine content and compared with the label claim. Box-plots revealed wide variation in the taurine content. The determined concentrations of taurine ranged from 21.69 to 36.80 mg/100 g for infant foods with 7 out of the 9 samples analysed in the permitted tolerance limit of 20 % of the stated claim. Taurine content varied from 195.7 to 445.8 mg/100 mL for energy drinks with the percentage difference between obtained and declared values ranging from 4.15 to 11.46. All the 9 dietary supplements analyzed were found to contain taurine (20.48–68.62 mg/100 g), even though it was not listed as an ingredient. Our results confirm the efficacy of the proposed method in ensuring compliance with taurine in food products, underlining its importance for risk assessors and regulators.

Development of vitamin D3 and Spirulina platensis protein hydrolysates co-loaded nanoliposomes and coated by sodium caseinate

The objective of this study was to investigate the co-loading of vitamin D3 (VitD3) and Spirulina platensis protein hydrolysates (SPH) within coated nanoliposomes (NLPs) by sodium caseinate, with the intention of developing a novel nutritional supplement. The coated NLPs exhibited particle size, PDI, and zeta potential values of 185.30 ± 29.62 nm, 0.22±0.04, and +18.70 ± 3.44 mV, respectively. Moreover, the encapsulation efficiencies of the coated NLPs for VitD3 and SPH were 83.24 ± 4.22 % and 89.41 ± 4.36 %, respectively. The improving effect of the surface coating by sodium caseinate on the stability and function of the NLPs was exhibited through analysis of chemical structure, thermal stability, and crystalline structure. The transmission electron microscopy pictures of the developed NLPs revealed a spherical morphology with a thin layer around the vesicle. The loaded VitD3 and SPH in the coated NLPs showed controlled release profiles during incubation in the simulated gastrointestinal condition. Moreover, the VitD3/SPH co-loaded NLPs and their coated form had no considerable cell toxicity. To conclude, the developed nanosystem demonstrated the suitable characteristics of a nanocarrier for reaping the nutritional benefits of VitD3 and SPH.

Effect of Counterfeits and Fake Reviews in Markets for Credence Goods

Counterfeits are a persistent problem in online marketplaces, in particular regarding credence goods (e.g., nutritional supplements), as their qualities are difficult or impossible to evaluate even after consumption. Concerned about product quality, customers frequently rely on external signals, such as product badges based on ratings. However, even product ratings are not foolproof as unethical sellers may acquire fake positive reviews to exploit product ratings and badge systems. To analyze the impact fake reviews have on credence goods, we consider a two-stage competition between an authentic seller and a deceptive counterfeiter. The market consists of two types of consumers: savvy customers, who understand that endorsement badges are product-dependent and not seller-dependent, and novice customers, who mistakenly believe product badges testify to a seller's authenticity. In the first stage, both sellers simultaneously decide on whether to acquire fake reviews, which partially influences if the product receives an endorsement badge. In the second stage, both sellers simultaneously set their prices and customers make purchasing decisions. Our results indicate that, in equilibrium, the authentic seller does not acquire fake reviews, while the counterfeiter may do so to mislead customers. Moreover, the amount of fake reviews is decreasing in the fraction of savvy consumers, suggesting that online platforms can combat fake reviews by, for instance, clearly highlighting that badges are product-dependent. We also find that having the option to acquire fake reviews may benefit both sellers but always hurts consumers, emphasizing the need for regulation to protect consumers.

Purification, characterization and anti-hyperuricemic mechanism of novel xanthine oxidase inhibitory peptides from tea (Camellia sinensis L.) protein

In this study, two novel xanthine oxidase inhibitory peptides, PDEAVAYG (820.3602 Da) and IAAGLQNTG (843.4450 Da), were purified and identified from tea protein hydrolysate, and their IC50 values were 0.09 mg/mL (109.71 μM) and 0.24 mg/mL (284.55 μM), respectively. During the gastrointestinal simulation digestion, PDEAVAYG was broken down into new peptides, while IAAGLQNTG exhibited some stability. Molecular docking results showed that hydrogen bonding, π-π stacking, and hydrophobic interactions exerted crucial effects on the interaction between peptides and xanthine oxidase. In the hyperuricemia cell model, compared to the model group, 1.0 mg/mL of PDEAVAYG and IAAGLQNTG decreased cellular uric acid levels by 40.80% and 33.33%, respectively. The RNA-seq experiments revealed that PDEAVAYG could alleviate hyperuricemia by regulating mRNA expression for pro-inflammatory factors, growth factors associated with cardiovascular disease, and uric acid efflux transporter proteins in cells. This study provides a new theoretical reference for the development of functional foods or nutritional supplements using peptides with anti-hyperuricemic activity.

Two-phase therapy for improving neuroprotection and neurogenesis: Preventive use of omega fatty acids plus Copolymer-1 immunization after stroke

Stroke is a major global health issue, ranking as the second leading cause of death and the primary cause of disability worldwide. However, current therapeutic options remain limited. Nutritional supplementation as a form of primary prevention stands as a potential stroke therapeutic. In particular, the intake of omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3FA) exerts anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects that help reduce the risk of stroke. In parallel, treatment with Copolymer-1 (COP-1), a peptide with immunomodulatory properties through Th1/Th2/Th3 phenotype switching, similarly affords neuroprotective and neurorestorative effects in stroke models. To investigate the combined effects of these treatments, we designed a two-phase therapy: the first phase involved preventive supplementation with omega-3FA, while the second phase included COP-1 immunization following stroke injury. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to one of the four groups: 1) control, 2) omega-3FA, 3) COP-1, and 4) omega-3FA + COP-1. Omega-3FAs were administered for 28 days before inducing stroke. Thirty minutes after reperfusion, the respective groups were immunized with COP-1. Seven days post-stroke, neurological deficits were assessed using the Zea-Longa scale, infarct volumes with 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, and levels of neurogenesis via immunofluorescence imaging. The results showed that the two-phase therapy produced significant synergistic effects, markedly reducing neurological deficits, and infarct volumes, while enhancing neurogenic activities in neurogenic niches. This combined approach underscores the potential of integrating nutritional and pharmacological strategies to enhance stroke recovery.

Identifying at-risk patients for congenital heart disease using integrated predictive models and fuzzy clustering analysis: A cross-sectional study

Congenital heart disease (CHD) remains a significant global health concern, affecting approximately 1 % of newborns worldwide. While its accurate causes often remain elusive, a combination of genetic and environmental factors is implicated. In this cross-sectional study, we propose a comprehensive prediction framework leveraging Machine Learning (ML) and Multi-Attribute Decision Making (MADM) techniques to enhance CHD diagnostics and forecasting. Our framework integrates supervised and unsupervised learning methodologies to remove data noise and address imbalanced datasets effectively. Through the utilization of imbalance ensemble methods and clustering algorithms such as K-means, we enhance predictive accuracy, particularly in non-clinical datasets where imbalances are prevalent. Our results demonstrate an improvement of 8 % in recall compared to existing literature, showcasing the efficacy of our approach. Moreover, our framework identifies clusters of patients at the highest risk using MADM techniques, providing insights into susceptibility to CHD. Fuzzy clustering techniques further assess the degree of risk for individuals within each cluster, enabling personalized risk evaluation. Importantly, our analysis reveals that unhealthy lifestyle factors, annual per capita income, nutrition, and folic acid supplementation emerge as crucial predictors of CHD occurrences. Additionally, environmental risk factors and maternal illnesses significantly contribute to the predictive model. These findings underscore the multifactorial nature of CHD development, emphasizing the importance of considering socioeconomic and lifestyle factors alongside medical variables in CHD risk assessment and prevention strategies. Our proposed framework offers a promising avenue for early identification and intervention, potentially mitigating the burden of CHD on affected individuals and healthcare systems globally.