Potential Health-promoting Effects Research Articles

Ginsenoside Rg1 mitigates morphine dependence via regulation of gut microbiota, tryptophan metabolism, and serotonergic system function.

Morphine dependence, a devastating neuropsychiatric condition, may be closely associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis. Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1), an active ingredient extracted from the roots of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, has potential health-promoting effects on the nervous system. However, its role in substance use disorders remains unclear. Here, we explored the potential modulatory roles of Rg1 in protection against morphine dependence. Conditioned place preference (CPP) was used for establishing a murine model of morphine dependence. 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabolomics were performed for microbial and metabolite analysis. Molecular analysis was tested for evaluating the host serum and brain responses. Rg1 prevented morphine-induced CPP in mice. The 16S rRNA gene-based microbiota analysis demonstrated that Rg1 ameliorated morphine-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis, specifically for Bacteroidetes. Moreover, Rg1 also inhibited gut microbiota-derived tryptophan metabolism and reduced the serotonin, 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1B (5-HTR1B), and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2A (5-HTR2A) levels. However, the Rg1-induced amelioration of CPP was not observed in mice when their gut microbiome was depleted by non-absorbable antibiotics. Subsequently, gavage with Bacteroides vulgatus increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes. B. vulgatus supplementation synergistically enhanced Rg1-alleviated morphine-induced CPP in mice with microbiome knockdown. Co-treatment with B. vulgatus and Rg1 produced suppressive effects against morphine dependency by inhibiting tryptophan metabolism and reducing the serotonin and 5-HTR1B/5-HTR2A levels. The gut microbiota-tryptophan metabolism-serotonin plays an important role in gut-brain signaling in morphine disorders, which may represent a novel approach for drug dependence treatment via manipulation of the gut microbial composition and tryptophan metabolite.

Isoliquiritigenin ameliorates advanced glycation end-products toxicity on renal proximal tubular epithelial cells.

Diabetic nephropathy is a serious chronic complication affecting at least 25% of diabetic patients. Hyperglycemia associated advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) increase tubular epithelial-myofibroblast transdifferentiation (TEMT) and extracellular matrix synthesis and thereby causes renal fibrosis. The chalcone isoliquiritigenin, found in many herbs of Glycyrrhiza family, is known for potential health-promoting effects. However, their effects on AGE-associated renal proximal tubular fibrosis are not known yet. In this study, the effect of isoliquiritigenin on AGE-induced renal proximal tubular fibrosis was determined in cultured HK-2 cell line. The results show that 200 μg/mL of AGE-induced TEMT and the formed myofibroblasts synthesized collagen to increase extracellular matrix formation thereby lead to renal tubular fibrosis. However, treatment with 200 nM of isoliquiritigenin considerably inhibited the TEMT and suppressed the TGFβ/STAT3 mechanism to inhibit collagen secretion. Therefore, isoliquiritigenin effectively suppressed AGE-induced renal tubular fibrosis.

Oil matrix modulates the bioaccessibility of polyphenols: a study of salad dressing formulation with industrial broccoli by-products and lemon juice.

The potential health-promoting effects of polyphenols depend considerably on their bioaccessibility, which is affected by the presence of other nutrients in the diet, including lipids. In this study, several salad dressing formulations were prepared using industrial broccoli by-product powder (BBP), lemon juice (LJ), and three different sources of oils (olive oil, hazelnut oil and sunflower oil) to both valorize polyphenol-rich industrial discards and also to investigate polyphenol bioaccessibility. The changes in the bioaccessibility of polyphenols from BBP and LJ were determined using the standardized in vitro digestion model. Four groups of polyphenols (hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonols, flavones, and flavonones) were detected in BBP and LJ. The bioaccessibility of hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonols from BBP increased significantly in the presence of LJ and oils (0.3- to 5.8-fold), whereas there was no significant difference between formulations containing different oil types. On the other hand, the bioaccessibility of phenolic acids from LJ did not change notably after co-ingestion with BBP and oils, whereas flavonoids, including vicenin-2 and hesperidin, were found to be significantly more bioaccessible when LJ was co-ingested with BBP and oils (0.8- to 1.4-fold) (P < 0.05). Overall, the current study highlighted that the bioaccessibility of polyphenols from BBP and LJ was modulated in the presence of an oil matrix. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Role of Lactobacillus plantarum with antioxidation properties on Chinese sausages

Excessive protein and lipid oxidation can lead to the deterioration of sausage quality, especially flavour. Functional starter culture increases their attractiveness through sensory qualities and a potential healthpromoting effect. It was investigated that Lactobacillus plantarum (L.plantarum) strains with antioxidation properties effected on the flavour and oxidation of fermented sausage in the study. The group treated with natural fermentation was used to as control (control group). Results showed that P3 and P3-M2 had the ability of reducing lipid and protein oxidation during fermentation. The increase of lipoxygenase activity and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs) values were retarded. Sulfhydryl group contents were significantly higher than those in the control. Furthermore, changes in protein bands were confirmed with the less protein oxidation with P3-M2 than P3 and the control. Accordingly, strain P3 and P3-M2 significantly enhanced the types and relative contents of esters after fermented, indicating that strain P3 and P3-M2 contributed to the production of flavour substances. These results revealed that L.plantarum strains with antioxidation properties were a promising approach in inhibiting lipid and protein oxidation of Chinese sausage, maintaining the stable natural structure of protein, simultaneously improve the quality of sausage and promote the sausage to form a better flavour.

Cherry Polyphenol Extract Ameliorated Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice by Suppressing Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic and nonspecific inflammatory disease of the colon and rectum, and its etiology remains obscure. Cherry polyphenols showed potential health-promoting effects. However, both the protective effect and mechanism of cherry polyphenols on UC are still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of the free polyphenol extract of cherry in alleviating UC and its possible mechanism of action. Our study revealed that the free polyphenol extract of cherry management significantly alleviated UC symptoms, such as weight loss, colon shortening, the thickening of colonic mucous layer, etc. The free polyphenol extract of cherry treatment also introduced a significant reduction in levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and nitric oxide (NO), while causing a significant elevation in levels of catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This indicated that such positive effects were performed through reducing oxidative damage or in a cytokine-specific manner. The immunofluorescence analysis of ZO-1 and occludin proteins declared that the free polyphenol extract of cherry had the potential to prompt intestinal barrier function. The reduced expression levels of β-catenin, c-myc, cyclin D1 and GSK-3β suggested that the cherry extract performed its positive effect on UC by suppressing the Wnt/β-ctenin pathway. This finding may pave the way into further understanding the mechanism of cherry polyphenols ameliorating ulcerative colitis.

Potential Activity of Abrantes Pollen Extract: Biochemical and Cellular Model Studies.

The aim of this study was to determine the grain composition and (poly)phenolic profile of pollen from Abrantes (Portugal), as well as its antioxidative and antidiabetic properties, and abilities to protect human erythrocytes against induced hemoglobin oxidation, lipid peroxidation, and hemolysis. The phytochemical profile of the Abrantes’ bee pollen revealed twenty phenolic compounds, identified by high-performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry coupled with photodiode array detection. Among them, quercetin derivatives were the most abundant. Concerning the biological potential, the pollen extract showed notable capacity for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, nitric oxide, and superoxide radicals, as well as for inhibition of α-glucosidase action, and protection of human erythrocytes against oxidative damage. Non-cytotoxic effects regarding the NHDF normal cell line, human adenocarcinoma Caco-2, and human liver HepG2 cells were observed. The results obtained contributed to further research on modes of action related to oxidative damage and metabolic health problems, to generate deeper knowledge of potential health-promoting effects to develop novel pharmaceutical drugs, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements.

Tissue-specific distribution of primary and secondary metabolites of Baemoochae (×Brassicoraphanus) and its changes as a function of developmental stages

The distribution and changes in the primary and secondary metabolite profiles of Baemoochae, an inter-generic hybrid of Chinese cabbage and radish, during the plant’s developmental stages were investigated. Metabolites were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole time-of-flight (UHPLC-ESI-qTOF MS). Free sugar, organic acid, and amino acid composition depended on the tissue type and developmental stage of Baemoochae. For example, glucose and alanine levels were higher in mature leaves than in young leaves; citric acid content in mature roots was lower than that in young roots. Several glucosinolates were identified for the first time in Baemoochae. Glucoraphasatin was predominant in both leaves and roots, regardless of plant maturity. Total glucosinolate content was significantly higher in roots than in leaves and in mature than in young plants. The roots of mature Baemoochae could be used as a rich source of glucosinolates, with several potential health-promoting effects.

Effects of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LOCK900 on Development of Volatile Compounds and Sensory Quality of Dry Fermented Sausages.

Traditional dry fermented meat products are highly appreciated by consumers. A probiotic starter culture increases their attractiveness through sensory qualities and a potential health-promoting effect. The ability to scale the laboratory solution to industrial conditions is an additional scientific and practical value of a new way of using probiotics in the meat industry. The aim was to evaluate the influence of the probiotic starter culture Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LOCK900 on the development of volatile organic compounds and the sensory quality of dry fermented pork sausages during fermentation and refrigeration storage. The microbiological and sensory characteristic (QDA method) and volatile compound (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry: GC–MS) were evaluated. The number of LOCK900 cells during 12 weeks of storage remained above 6 log CFU g−1, making this product a functional food. The addition of probiotic LOCK900 increased the levels of acidic volatile compounds, aldehydes, and esters, which, combined with the additives and spices used, had a positive effect on the sensory properties of ripening sausages. The sausages with LOCK900 were characterised by positive sensory features, and their overall quality remained high during storage and did not differ from that of the control sausages.

Application of Crude Pomace Powder of Chokeberry, Bilberry, and Elderberry as a Coloring Foodstuff.

Berry pomace, rich in polyphenols, especially anthocyanins, accumulates during the production of red juices. Pomace from chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa Michx.), bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.), and elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) represent good sources of coloring foodstuffs. Pomace powders (PP) were prepared by milling the seedless fractions of the three dried berry pomaces (50 °C, 8 h). Techno-functional properties of the powders such as particle size distribution, bulk density, sedimentation velocity, and swelling capacity were determined to evaluate the powders for possible food applications. Total anthocyanin content was quantified by UHPLC-DAD before and during a storage experiment to monitor the degradation of anthocyanins in the PP and in a yogurt model application. The high content of phenolic compounds and the still intact cell structure ensured high stability of anthocyanins over 28 days of storage. In the model application, color saturation was stable over the whole storage time of 14 days. Regarding the techno-functional properties, only a few differences between the three PP were observed. The particle size of elderberry PP was larger, resulting in lowest bulk density (0.45 g/mL), high cold-water solubility (16.42%), and a swelling capacity of 10.16 mL/g dw. Sedimentation velocity of the three PP was fast (0.02 mL/min) due to cluster formation of the particles caused by electrostatic and hydrophobic properties. Compared to other high-intensity coloring foodstuffs, the use of PP, showing acceptable color stability with potential health-promoting effects, represents a wide applicability in different food applications and especially in products with a longer shelf-life.

Gut microbiota-derived inosine from dietary barley leaf supplementation attenuates colitis through PPAR\u03b3 signaling activation

BackgroundUlcerative colitis is a type of chronic inflammatory bowel disease closely associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal homeostasis dysregulation. Barley leaf (BL) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine with potential health-promoting effects on intestinal functions. However, its mechanism of action is not yet clear. Here, we explore the potential modulating roles of gut microbial metabolites of BL to protect against colitis and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.ResultsUsing 16S rRNA gene-based microbiota analysis, we first found that dietary supplementation of BL ameliorated dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis. The mechanisms by which BL protected against DSS-induced colitis were resulted from improved intestinal mucosal barrier functions via the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ signaling. In addition, metabolomic profiling analysis showed that the gut microbiota modulated BL-induced metabolic reprograming in the colonic tissues particularly by the enhancement of glycolysis process. Notably, dietary BL supplementation resulted in the enrichment of microbiota-derived purine metabolite inosine, which could activate PPARγ signaling in human colon epithelial cells. Furthermore, exogenous treatment of inosine reproduced similar protective effects as BL to protect against DSS-induced colitis through improving adenosine 2A receptor (A2AR)/PPARγ-dependent mucosal barrier functions.ConclusionsOverall, our findings suggest that the gut microbiota-inosine-A2AR/PPARγ axis plays an important role in the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis, which may represent a novel approach for colitis prevention via manipulation of the gut microbial purine metabolite.7KxheC7u6V5hPgskc1_WuPVideo

Polyphenols and Human Health: The Role of Bioavailability.

Polyphenols are a group of phytochemicals with potential health-promoting effects. They are classified as flavonoid (flavonols, flavanols, flavones, flavanones, isoflavones, and anthocyanins) and non-flavonoid molecules (phenolic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, lignans, stilbenes, and tannins). Although an increasing number of trials have shown a correlation among polyphenol consumption and a reduction in risk factors for chronic diseases, discrepancies in explaining their positive effects have been found in terms of the bioavailability. In fact, polyphenols show a low bioavailability due to several factors: interaction with the food matrix, the metabolic processes mediated by the liver (phase I and II metabolism), intestine and microbiota. On the other hand, the biological activities of phenol compounds may be mediated by their metabolites, which are produced in vivo, and recent studies have confirmed that these molecules may have antioxidant and anti-phlogistic properties. This review discusses the studies performed in vivo, which consider the polyphenol bioavailability and their different food sources. Factors influencing the biological effects of the main classes of polyphenols are also considered.

Effects of enzymatically hydrolysed poultry byproduct meal in extruded diets on serum angiotensin-converting enzyme activity and aldosterone in cats

ABSTRACT Several peptides found in hydrolysed poultry byproduct meal can inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity, a property that indicates potential antihypertensive and health-promoting effects. This study aimed to assess the effects of extruded diets containing enzymatically hydrolysed poultry byproduct meal (HPM) on cat serum ACE activity and aldosterone (ALD) concentration, nutrient digestibility, and faecal characteristics. On the basis of a preliminary in vitro ACE inhibitory activity assay, a commercial HPM and a commercial conventional poultry byproduct meal (CPM) were selected for further investigation. Two isoenergetic and isonitrogenous diets were formulated: CPM diet (25.7% CPM) and HPM diet (24.7% HPM). In trial 1, the effect of diet on serum ACE activity and ALD concentration was evaluated using 8 healthy cats (4 female and 4 male, 4.1 ± 0.38 kg BW) in a crossover design, with 5 d of adaptation and blood collection on d 6. In trial 2, apparent total tract digestibility and faecal characteristics were evaluated using 12 cats (6 female and 6 male, 4.0 ± 0.72 kg BW) in a completely randomised design. Serum ACE and ALD were analysed using a mixed model, with diet as the fixed effect and cat as the random effect. Data from trial 2 were subjected to analysis of variance, and means were compared by Tukey’s test. In vitro ACE inhibitory activity of HPM (90.4%) was higher than that of CPM (52.0%). Cats fed the HPM diet tended to have lower serum ACE activity than those fed the CPM diet (126 versus 142 U/l, p = 0.09). Serum ALD was not influenced by diet. Diets had similar digestibility values, and faecal consistency scores tended to be higher (firmer faeces) in cats fed the CPM diet than in cats fed the HPM diet (4.6 versus 4.0, p = 0.09). Inclusion of HPM in extruded diets may reduce cat serum ACE activity and promote good faecal consistency without affecting digestibility. Further investigations are needed to explore the potential health benefits of HPM in hypertensive cats.

EFFICACY OF PHYTONUTRIENTS FROM POMEGRANATE PEEL ON HUMAN OVARIAN CELLS IN VITRO

Pomegranate fruit (Punica granatum L.) is rich in antioxidants with a content of bioactive substances with high medicinal value. Punicalagin, a polyphenol from pomegranate fruit, has been studied for its antioxidant, anti-proliferative and anti-cancer activities. Ovarian cancer is one of the most common cancers in the female reproductive organs and with high rate of lethality. While it is confirmed that pomegranate has significant beneficial effects on several types of cancer, there are few detailed reports on epithelial ovarian cancer. In accordance with the potential health-promoting effects of pomegranate, the aim of our study was to examine the in vitro effect of punicalagin and pomegranate peel extract at the different concentrations (12.5, 25, 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL) for 24 h on the human ovarian granulosa cell line HGL5 and human ovarian carcinoma cell line OVCAR-3. For this experiment, the ethanol extract from lyophilized pomegranate peel was prepared. The metabolic activity was determined by AlamarBlueTM cell viability assay, the secretion of steroid hormones was assayed by the ELISA method. The results showed a significant (P≤0.001) decrease in the viability of HGL5 cells after the addition of the highest concentration of punicalagin (200 µg/mL). The number of viable OVCAR-3 cells was not significantly (P≥0.05) affected compared to the control. On the other hand, the concentrations 25, 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL of pomegranate peel extract led to a significant decrease in the viability of OVCAR-3 cells but did not cause any significant (P≥0.05) changes in the viability of HGL5. Although our studies revealed an increase in the release of 17β-estradiol levels by HGL5 cells after punicalagin treatment at the concentration 50 (P≤0.01) and 100 (P≤0.05) µg/mL, progesterone secretion was not significantly (P≥0.05) affected. Also, the release of 17ß-estradiol was significantly increased after the supplementation of pomegranate peel extract at the concentrations 50 (P≤0.01), 100, and 200 (P≤0.001) µg/mL. Furthermore, the levels of progesterone were significantly (P≤0.05) decreased at concentrations 12.5, 25, 50, and 100 µg/mL. In conclusion, pomegranate phytonutrients might be a promising modulator of secretion of steroid hormones and it might serve to be a potential chemoprotective agent, reducing viability of ovarian cancer cells.

Quality evaluation of functional bread developed from wheat, malted millet (Pennisetum Glaucum) and ‘Okara’ flour blends

Consumer interest and recognition of the link between health and diet have spurred the demand for functional foods. This study evaluated the quality characteristics of functional bread developed from the blends of wheat (WHF), malted millet (MMF), and ‘okara’ (SYF) flour. A three-component constrained mixture design which generated fourteen (14) experimental runs based on different combinations of wheat (50–90%), malted millet (5–45%), and ‘okara’ (5–45%) flours was adopted for the production of functional bread. The flour blends were processed into bread and analyzed for sensory acceptability and antioxidant properties (radical scavenging activity by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), total flavonoid, and phenolic contents. The optimum flour combination in obtaining higher antioxidant properties and acceptability was 65.18% WHF, 19.43% MMF, and 15.39% SYF using numerical optimization techniques. The control (100% whole-wheat bread) and optimized bread produced were assessed for physico-chemical, antioxidant properties, color, and sensory qualities. The total dietary fiber, calcium, phosphorus, and sodium of the optimized bread were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in the control sample having 11.25 and 9.23%, 127.80, and 75.65 mg/100 g, 68.18 and 63.77 and 13.83 ppm and 12.62 ppm respectively. The total flavonoid and phenolic contents of the control and optimized bread were significantly (p < 0.05) different with values ranging from 97.90 to104.86 mg/100 g and 62.38 to 54.69 mg/100 g respectively. A significant variation was observed in the sweetness and denseness intensity between the control and optimized bread, but no significant differences were recorded in the intensities other attributes studied. The study revealed that the chemical and antioxidant properties of the developed functional bread validate its potential health-promoting effects.

ω-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Colonic Inflammation and Colon Cancer: Roles of Lipid-Metabolizing Enzymes Involved.

Substantial human and animal studies support the beneficial effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on colonic inflammation and colorectal cancer (CRC). However, there are inconsistent results, which have shown that ω-3 PUFAs have no effect or even detrimental effects, making it difficult to effectively implement ω-3 PUFAs for disease prevention. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms for the anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects of ω-3 PUFAs will help to clarify their potential health-promoting effects, provide a scientific base for cautions for their use, and establish dietary recommendations. In this review, we summarize recent studies of ω-3 PUFAs on colonic inflammation and CRC and discuss the potential roles of ω-3 PUFA-metabolizing enzymes, notably the cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, in mediating the actions of ω-3 PUFAs.

Production of high-purity phospholipid concentrate from buttermilk powder using ethanol-modified supercritical carbon dioxide

A new strategy to concentrate phospholipids from buttermilk powder was developed using a food-grade green method based on ethanol-modified supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) extraction. The effects of extraction conditions, namely temperature (50 and 60°C), pressure (30 and 40 MPa), and ethanol concentration (10, 15, and 20%, wt/wt), on the total lipid yield and phospholipid content were investigated. The ethanol concentration had a more significant effect on the total lipid yield and phospholipid content than the temperature and pressure within the ranges studied. The highest phospholipid recovery was achieved at 60°C, 30 MPa, and 15% (wt/wt) ethanol with a total lipid yield of 6.3% (wt/wt), of which 49% (wt/wt) were phospholipids composed of dihydrosphingomyelin (5%), sphingomyelin (24%), phosphatidylethanolamine (22%), phosphatidylserine (2%), phosphatidylinositol (3%), and phosphatidylcholine (44%). The triacylglycerol compositions of extracts obtained by Folch and ethanol-modified SC-CO2 extractions were similar. A sequential pure SC-CO2 and ethanol-modified SC-CO2 extraction was carried out to separate nonpolar lipids in the first fraction, thereby concentrating phospholipids in the second fraction. This sequential extraction produced a highly concentrated phospholipid extract (76%, wt/wt). To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest phospholipid concentration reported from buttermilk powder. Thus, this phospholipid-rich extract can be used in the development of functional foods as a food-grade emulsifier with potential health-promoting effects.

Biotechnological re-cycling of apple by-products: A reservoir model to produce a dietary supplement fortified with biogenic phenolic compounds

This study is an example of apple by-products (AP) recycling through a designed fermentation by selected autochthonous Lactobacillus plantarum AFI5 and Lactobacillus fabifermentans ALI6 used singly or as binary cultures with the selected Saccharomyces cerevisiae AYI7. Compared to Raw-, Unstarted- and Chemically Acidified-AP, Fermented-AP promoted the highest levels of total and insoluble dietary fibers, DPPH scavenging capacity, and free phenolics. The binary culture of L. plantarum AFI5 and S. cerevisiae AYI7 had the best effect on the bioavailability phenolic compounds as resulted by the LC-MS/MS validated method. The accumulation of phenolic acids derivatives highlighted the microbial metabolism during AP fermentation. Bio-converted phenolics were likely responsible for the increased DPPH scavenging capacity. The potential health-promoting effects of Fermented-AP were highlighted using Caco-2 cells. With variations among single and binary cultures, fermented-AP counteracted the inflammatory processes and the effects of oxidative stress in Caco-2 cells, and preserved the integrity of tight junctions.

P1587EFFECT OF INTERMITTENT FASTING IN RAMADAN ON BODY COMPOSITION AND NUTRITIONAL PARAMETERS IN PATIENTS ON MAINTENANCE HEMODIALYSIS

Abstract Background and Aims Intermittent fasting has been demonstrated to have many potential health-promoting effects. Intermittent fasting regimens were proven to influence metabolic regulation and chronic inflammation. Fasting during the month of Ramadan can be considered as a model of intermittent fasting among Muslims. In general, there is a shortage of studies in the context of the effect of Ramadan fasting in patients on maintenance hemodialysis (HD). The present study aimed to assess the effects of fasting in Ramadan on body composition as well as nutritional and inflammation parameters in patients on chronic HD. Method This prospective observational study included 68 patients on maintenance HD for more than six months in Mansoura Nephrology and Dialysis Unit (MNDU). The study was performed in Ramadan 1440 Hijri when the fasting hours ranged from 15 to 16 hours. Patients’ nutritional status was assessed by malnutrition inflammation score (MIS). Anthropometric measurements, including body weight, height, mid arm circumference (MAC) and triceps skin fold thickness (TSF), were measured. Body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance. All of the aforementioned methods were performed before start of Ramadan and repeated three weeks after the end of the holy month in patients who fasted. Results Forty–five patients (66%) fasted more than 18 days during the month of Ramadan. The mean age of patients who fasted was 47.33±14.86 years with a median duration of HD of 35 months (IQR 14.5-74.5). After Ramadan, weight gain was observed in patients who fasted. However, the increase in body mass index (BMI) was statistically insignificant (28.7±6.06 vs 29.04±6.09kg/m? p=0.073). On the other hand, visceral fat was significantly reduced after Ramadan (p&amp;lt;0.0001). MIS score improved with lower score estimated after Ramadan; however, the difference was insignificant (p=0.059). Conclusion Fasting in Ramadan in HD patients was associated improvement of the metabolic profile evident by decrease in visceral fat. The effect of intermittent fasting on inflammation and nutritional parameters in patients on maintenance hemodialysis needs further investigations.

Preparation and characterization of active and intelligent films based on fish gelatin and haskap berries (Lonicera caerulea L.) extract

Abstract Haskap berries (Lonicera caerulea L.) are rich in polyphenols and possess potential health-promoting effects. In this study, polyphenols were extracted from haskap berries and further incorporated into fish gelatin (FG) to develop active and intelligent packaging films. Results showed anthocyanins and phenolic acids were the main polyphenols in haskap berry extract (HBE). Scanning electron microscopy showed the cross-sections of FG-HBE films were smooth and uniform. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed intermolecular hydrogen bonds formed between the hydroxyl groups of polyphenols in HBE and the amino/hydroxyl groups in FG. The crystallinity of FG film was enhanced by the addition of HBE. Moreover, the incorporation of HBE significantly increased the total color difference value, water vapor and UV–vis light barrier properties, tensile strength, and antioxidant ability of FG film. Due to high anthocyanin content in HBE, FG-HBE films were pH-sensitive and exhibited visible color changes as a function of pH. Notably, FG-HBE film containing 1 wt% of HBE was more appropriated to be used as the freshness indicator of shrimp. Our results suggest FG-HBE films can be applied as novel as antioxidant and intelligent food packaging films in food industry.

Postprandial Responses of Serum Bile Acids in Healthy Humans after Ingestion of Turmeric before Medium/High-Fat Breakfasts.

Bile acids (BAs) are known to regulate a number of metabolic activities in the body. However, very little is known about how BAs are affected by diet. This study aims to investigate whether a single dose of turmeric-based beverage (TUR) before ingestion of medium- (MF) or high-fat (HF) breakfasts would improve the BA profile in healthy subjects. Twelve healthy subjects are assigned to a randomized crossover single-blind study. The subjects receive isocaloric MF or HF breakfasts after a drink containing flavored water with or without an extract of turmeric with at least 1-week wash-out period between the treatments. Postprandial BAs are measured using protein precipitation followed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. The concentration of BAs is generally higher after HF than MF breakfasts. Ingestion of TUR before MF breakfast increases the serum concentrations of free and conjugated forms of cholic (CA) and ursodeoxycholic acids (UDCA), as well as the concentrations of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and its taurine-conjugated forms. However, the concentration of conjugated forms of deoxycholic acid (DCA) decreases when TUR is taken before HF breakfast. TUR ingestion before MF and HF breakfasts improve BA profiles and may therefore have potential health-promoting effects on BA metabolism.