Total Fatty Acids Research Articles

The effects of dietary supplementation with red grape pomace treated with ozone gas on ruminal fermentation activities, nutrient digestibility, lactational performance, and blood metabolites in dairy ewes

This study aimed to investigate the effect of red grape pomace (RGP) treated with ozone (O3) gas as a substitute of low-quality alfalfa hay on the ruminal fermentation, nutrient digestibility, and milk production performance of fat-tailed, fed RGP substituted high fibrous alfalfa hay. Present study was performed in two experimental phases: 1) In situ and in vitro phase: Four Ghezel ewes in their third gestation (30 months old; weighing 51 ± 2 kg) with surgically implanted cannulas in their rumen were used to assess the in situ degradability and to obtain ruminal fluid to assay the in vitro gas production; the treatments were RGP not-processed (control; T0), and RGP processed with O3 for 6 (T1), 12 h (T2), and 24 h (T3). Processing RGP with O3 gas reduced (P < 0.05) neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF), although the processing time did not show differences. Ozone-treated RGP caused a reduction (P < 0.02) in total phenolics, total tannins, condensed tannins, protein-bound tannins, and fiber-bound tannins, compared to the control. Processing RGP with O3 for 12 h improved the nutritional value of RGP because of the reduction of the concentration of phenolic compounds, the increase of the in vitro gas production and the dry matter (DM) degradability, and improved fermentation parameters and it was chosen for the second phase of the experiment. 2) In vivo phase: Forty-eight healthy multiparous fat-tailed Ghezel ewes received the control diet (0 % RGP), or diets that substituted 20, 40, and 60 % of the dietary alfalfa hay with RGP processed with O3 for 12 h. Incremental dietary replacement of RGP with alfalfa hay did not influence the ruminal total volatile fatty acids but increased (P < 0.03) propionate. The digestibility coefficients of the DM and the NDF increased (P < 0.001) in diets containing RGP versus the control, but not for the crude protein and ether extract. The ruminal protozoa population exhibited a linear increase with the addition of O3-treated RGP (P < 0.001). Plasma glucose and albumin concentration increased (P < 0.04), and milk production and milk fat, protein, and lactose contents also increased (P < 0.05) with the alfalfa substitution with O3-processed RGP. In conclusion, replacing high-fibrous alfalfa hay with RGP treated with O3 for 12 h improved the apparent digestibility of DM and NDF and maintained the performance of the ewes.

Functional properties and safety traits of L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri postbiotic extracts

Postbiotics are the non-viable bacterial products or the low molecular weight metabolites produced by probiotics that have received considerable attention owing to their health promoting effects. The present study aimed to investigate the safety and antibacterial properties of postbiotic components of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (Lra) and Limosilactobacillus reuteri (Lre) for their potential applications in food products. The freeze dried postbiotic metabolites (FD-P) from Lra and Lre were extensively analyzed for their physico-chemical properties and antibacterial actions against common food borne pathogens. Higher levels of total flavonoids (1971.79 ± 20 mg Qu/ g), total short-chain fatty acid (23 µg/g), sugar contents, CAT, and SOD anti-oxidative enzymes were detected in the Lra postbiotic, while GSH-px levels and riboflavin were higher in Lre postbiotics (P < 0.01). No significant differences were recorded in the total phenolic (2501 and 2518 mg GAE/ L) and crude protein contents (305. 58 and 296.23 µg/g) of the postbiotics (p ≥ 0.05), respectively. Both FD-P samples showed enhanced activities against Gram-Positive pathogens compared to Gram-Negative pathogens (p < 0.05), while combining the two postbiotics further potentiated the antibacterial actions. Both FD-P samples were non-hemolytic to human erythrocyte cells, and exhibited low cytotoxicity in MRC 5 and IPEC-J2 cell lines at the highest used concentrations (150 mg/ml). In summary, the postbiotics derived from Lra and Lre are safe bioactive ingredients with enhanced antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities, having potential applications as a natural preservatives in food system, potentially enhancing safety and extending the shelf life of food products.

Application of propionate-producing bacterial consortium in ruminal methanogenesis inhibited environment with bromoethanesulfonate as a methanogen direct inhibitor.

Methane production in ruminants is primarily due to the conversion of metabolic hydrogen (H2), produced during anaerobic microbial fermentation, into methane by ruminal methanogens. While this process plays a crucial role in efficiently disposes of H2, it also contributes to environmental pollution and eliminating methane production in the rumen has proven to be challenging. This study investigates the use of probiotics, specifically propionate-producing bacteria, to redirect accumulated H2 in a methane-mitigated environment. For this objective, we supplemented experimental groups with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Megasphaera elsdenii for the reinforced acrylate pathway (RA) and Selenomonas ruminantium and Acidipropionibacterium thoenii for the reinforced succinate pathway (RS), as well as a consortium of all four strains (CB), with the total microbial concentration at 1.0 × 1010 cells/mL. To create a methane-mitigated environment, 2-bromoethanesulfonate (BES) was added to all experimental groups at a dose of 15 mg/0.5 g of feed. BES reduced methane production by 85% in vitro, and the addition of propionate-producing bacteria with BES further decreased methane emission by up to 94% compared with the control (CON) group. Although BES did not affect the alpha diversity of the ruminal bacteriome, it reduced total volatile fatty acid production and altered beta diversity of ruminal bacteriota, indicating microbial metabolic adaptations to H2 accumulation. Despite using different bacterial strains targeting divergent metabolic pathways (RA and RS), a decrease in the dominance of the [Eubacterium] ruminantium group suggesting that both approaches may have a similar modulatory effect. An increase in the relative abundance of Succiniclasticum in the CB group suggests that propionate metabolism is enhanced by the addition of a propionate-producing bacterial consortium. These findings recommend using a consortium of propionate-producing bacteria to manage H2 accumulation by altering the rumen bacteriome, thus mitigating the negative effects of methane reduction strategies.

Bio-functional properties of Jilungin (Terminalia canescens).

Jilungin (Terminalia canescens) is a native Australian plant and the Indigenous "Nyul Nyul" people of the Kimberleyregion of Western Australia use its leaves to make herbal tea. Due to the rise in the popularity of drinking Jilungin tea among the consumers in Australia and internationally, it is important to study the nutritional and health-beneficial properties as well as safety of Jilungin leaves. This study aims to determine the nutritional composition, anti-nutritional factors, antimicrobial and antidiabetic properties of Jilungin leaves. Also, the phytochemical profiling using UHPLC-MS/MS (Ultra-performance liquid chromatographymass spectrometry) and antioxidant activity of Jilungin methanolic extracts and herbal infusion were investigated. The safety of the leaves and infusion was also investigated by using in vitro mammalian cell lines (Caco2, HT29, and HepG2) through cell viability assays. The leaves are rich in dietary fiber (43.9%) and linoleic acid (30.4% of total fatty acids). Phytochemical profiling revealed ellagic acid, geraniin, pedunculagin, and punicalagin as the major bioactive compounds. The results also demonstrated that Jilungin has strong antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. A significant (p<0.01) strong positive correlation was observed between the high antioxidant activity of Jilungin infusion with the major bioactive compounds. Jilungin extracts (50mg/mL) exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. Its infusion and methanolic extract were safe on the studied cell lines (Caco-2, HT29, and HepG2) at higher concentrations of 66.6 and 98mg/mL, respectively. Therefore, Jilungin teas or infusions could be a safe and effective way to promote health and well-being. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Jilungin tea is very popular among consumers in Australia and is gaining popularity worldwide. The current study will increase knowledge on the nutritional aspects and safety of the Jilungin use.

Depiction of 2-oleic acid-1,3-saturated fatty acid triacylglycerols intended for cocoa butter equivalents from Rhodosporidium toruloides

Cocoa butter equivalent (CBE) serves as a viable substitute for cocoa butter (CB) in the confectionary industry. In this study, four types of CBE were produced via fermentation of Rhodosporidium toruloides and systematically characterized. Fatty acid analysis revealed similarities in both total and sn-2 fatty acid composition compared to cocoa butter. Specifically, palmitic acid, stearic acid and oleic acid constituted 87 % to 91 % of the total fatty acid, with palmitic acid predominating at the sn-2 position (80 %). Analysis of triacylglycerol species indicated that the combined proportion of POP, POSt, and StOSt was lower (50 %) than that found in cocoa butter. Solid fat content analysis showed that CBE were soft than cocoa butter. X-ray analysis confirmed that both CBE and CB predominantly exhibited the desired β crystal form. Additionally, spherical-shaped crystals were observed in CBE during polarized light microscopy analysis.

Replacing soybean meal with house cricket (Acheta domesticus) meal in ruminant diet: effects on ruminal fermentation, degradation, and biohydrogenation

Abstract Insect meals could be a sustainable protein source in ruminant diets to overcome the environmental, market, and feed-food-fuel issues associated with the widespread use of soybean meal (SBM). However, research on this topic is still very scarce. This study was conducted to examine the possibility of replacing SBM with house cricket (Acheta domesticus) meal (HCM) in ruminant feeding. Four cannulated sheep were fed a total mixed ration containing either 10% SBM (Control diet) or 10% of non-defatted HCM (Insect diet) over two consecutive periods. Effects on ruminal fermentation, degradation, and biohydrogenation were evaluated. Despite some differences in rumen dry matter and N degradation kinetics, replacing dietary SBM with HCM did not affect the ruminal disappearance of dry matter, N and, neutral detergent fibre of in situ incubated feedstuffs. Nor were there differences between the meals in the in vitro intestinal digestibility of rumen non-degraded nitrogen. The replacement had no negative effects on rumen pH or ammonia concentrations, but resulted in lower total and individual (i.e. acetate, propionate, butyrate, and minor) volatile fatty acid concentrations. This adverse effect was probably due, at least in part, to the unexpectedly high content of fat in HCM and its relatively high degree of unsaturation. Inclusion of HCM in the diet facilitated modulation of the fatty acid profile of the rumen digesta without negative effects on biohydrogenation pathways (e.g. it increased trans-11 18:1 and cis-9 trans-11 CLA concentrations, with only a small variation in the trans-10:trans-11 18:1 ratio). Replacing SBM with HCM in ruminant diets could be a promising alternative to address the challenges related to SBM and to improve the lipid composition of ruminant-derived products. However, further research is still needed to investigate, for example, the most appropriate level of inclusion of HCM in the diet or the use of defatted meal.

Nigella sativa oil attenuates inflammation and oxidative stress in experimental myocardial infarction.

A growing interest in using Nigella sativa oil (NSO) in the prevention or treatment of several cardiovascular diseases has prompted this study. The research aims to investigate the effect of NSO on cardiac damage prevention after long-term administration in induced myocardial infarction (MI) in rats. NSO was analyzed for its fatty acids composition using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and administered in rats before and after isoproterenol (45mg/kg body weight) induced myocardial infarction. The following parameters were assessed: electrocardiograms, histopathological examination, serum biochemical aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), serum and heart inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1b), and interleukin 6 (IL-6)), and tissue oxidative stress (total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidative stress (TOS), nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and the total thiols (THIOL)). Linoleic acid (C18:2n-6) and oleic acid (C18:1n-9) were approximately 89% of total fatty acids while palmitic acid (C16:0) was 6.10%. Administration of NSO for 28 days helped in preventing QT and QTc interval prolongation and reduced heart rate (HR), after MI induction. The histological assessment showed improvement in myofibrillary degeneration and necrosis and also better reduced inflammatory process in the groups treated with NSO. In serum, pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1b and IL-6 were downregulated in chronic conditions (for IL-1b, NSO vs. control was 86.09vs 150.39 pg/mL, and for IL-6 NSO vs. control was 78.00 vs. 184.98 pg/ml). In the heart tissue, the downregulation was observed only for TNF in both acute and chronic conditions (acute NSO vs. control was 132.37 vs. 207.63 pg/mL, and chronic NSO vs. control was 135.83 vs. 183.29 pg/ml). The pro-oxidant parameters TOS, NO, MDA, and OSI, were reduced in the groups treated with NSO only after 14 days of treatment, suggesting that the NSO antioxidant effect is time-dependent. NSO administration might have a favourable impact on the regulation of oxidative stress and inflammation processes after MI induction in rats, and it is worth considering its administration as an adjuvant treatment.

Plasma levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids and multiple sclerosis susceptibility in a US case-control study

BackgroundThere are plausible mechanisms, yet mixed evidence, that higher polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) levels reduces the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS). Prior studies relied on dietary surveys to estimate levels. ObjectiveWe tested associations between plasma levels of n-3 and n-6 PUFAs and likelihood of MS onset or clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) using data from the MS Sunshine Study, a case-control study conducted in the United States. MethodsCase participants (n = 589) aged ≥ 18 years and matched control participants (n = 630) were recruited between 2011 and 2015. Plasma phospholipid fatty acid profiling was conducted by gas-liquid chromatography. We used logistic regression to report odds ratios, testing for interactions, adjusting for covariates and correcting for multiple comparisons. ResultsThere was a 6 % lower probability of MS/CIS per unit increase in total n-6 PUFA level, expressed as a percentage of total plasma phospholipid fatty acids (odds ratio = 0.94; 95 % confidence interval = 0.90,0.98; p = 0.012). We found no statistically significant association between individual or total plasma levels of n-3 PUFAs and probability of MS/CIS; however, plasma levels of n-3 PUFAs were low across the cohort. No other individual or aggregate PUFA levels were significantly associated with MS/CIS. ConclusionA higher total n-6 PUFA level may be beneficial in terms of MS susceptibility.Further research is needed to determine whether n-3 PUFAs may be beneficial only above a threshold that is achievable by supplementation.

Dietary Bacteriophage Administration Alleviates Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli-Induced Diarrhea and Intestinal Impairment through Regulating Intestinal Inflammation and Gut Microbiota in a Newly Weaned Mouse Model

This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary bacteriophage administration on diarrhea and intestinal impairment induced by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) in a newly weaned mouse model. Forty-four newly weaned C57BL/6 mice were divided into four treatment groups, where they were provided either the control diet or the bacteriophage-supplemented diet, with or without ETEC infection. The results show that the bacteriophage administration resulted in increased body weight, decreased diarrhea score, and improved jejunal histopathology in ETEC-infected mice. The bacteriophage administration enhanced the intestinal barrier function of the ETEC-infected mice, as indicated by the reduced serum DAO level and the increased expression of Claudin-1, Occludin, and ZO-1 at both the mRNA and protein levels in the jejunum. Also, the bacteriophage administration resulted in a decrease in serum TNF-α and IL-1β levels, a down-regulation of TNF-α and IL-6 mRNA levels in the jejunum, and the inhibition of jejunal TLR-4/NF-κB pathway activation induced by ETEC infection. Moreover, the bacteriophage administration increased the levels of acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, and total short-chain fatty acids in the caecum content. The bacteriophage administration increased the Shannon index, increased the abundance of Bacteroidota and Muribaculaceae, and decreased the abundance of Verrucomicrobiota and Akkermansiaceae in the colon contents of the ETEC-infected mice. Spearman’s correlation analysis indicates that the protective effects of bacteriophage on ETEC-induced intestinal impairment, inflammation, and intestinal barrier function are associated with regulating the abundance of Bacteroidota and Muribaculaceae in the colon contents of mice. Collectively, bacteriophage administration alleviates ETEC-induced diarrhea and intestinal impairment through regulating intestinal inflammation and gut microbiota in newly weaned mice.

Association of circulating fatty acids with cardiovascular disease risk: Analysis of individual-level data in three large prospective cohorts and updated meta-analysis.

Associations of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids (FAs) with cardiovascular disease (CVD) remain controversial. We therefore aimed to investigate the prospective associations of objectively measured FAs with CVD, including incident coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke, as well as CVD mortality. Circulating FA concentrations expressed as the percentage of total FAs were assayed in 172,891 participants without prior vascular disease at baseline from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition-CVD (EPIC-CVD) (7,343 CHD; 6,499 stroke), UK Biobank (1,825; 1,474), and INTERVAL (285; 209) cohort studies. Hazard ratio (HR) per 1-standard deviation (SD) higher FA concentrations was estimated using Cox regression models and pooled by random-effects meta-analysis. Systematic reviews with meta-analysis published by 6 May 2023 on associations between FAs and CVDs were systematically searched and updated meta-analyses using random-effects model were conducted. Evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was also summarized. Higher concentrations of total saturated FAs (SFAs) were associated with higher cardiovascular risks in the combined analysis, with differential findings noted for SFA subtypes in further analysis restricted to EPIC-CVD: positive associations for even-chain SFA [HR for CHD 1.24 (95% CI: 1.18-1.32); stroke 1.23 (1.10-1.38)] and negative associations for odd-chain [0.82 (0.76-0.87); 0.73 (0.67-0.78)] and longer-chain [0.95 (0.80-1.12); 0.84 (0.72-0.99)] SFA. In the combined analysis, total n-3 polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) [0.91 (0.85-0.97)], including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) [0.91 (0.84-0.98)], was negatively associated with incident CHD risk. Similarly, total n-6 PUFA [0.94 (0.91-0.98)], including linoleic acid (LA) [0.89 (0.83-0.95)], was negatively associated with incident stroke risk. By contrast, more detailed analyses in EPIC-CVD revealed that several downstream n-6 PUFAs of LA were positively associated with CHD risk. Updated meta-analyses of 37 FAs including 49 non-overlapping studies, involving between 7,787 to 22,802 CHD and 6,499 to 14,221 stroke cases, showed broadly similar results as our combined empirical analysis and further suggested significant inverse associations of individual long-chain n-3 PUFAs and LA on both CHD and stroke. The findings of long-chain n-3 PUFAs were consistent with those from published RCTs on CHD despite insufficient evidence in monotherapy, while RCT evidence remained unclear for the rest of the explored FAs. Our study provides an overview of the most recent evidence on the associations between objectively measured FAs and CVD outcomes. Collectively, the data reveals notable differences in associations by SFA subtypes and calls for further studies, especially RCTs, to explore these links.

Physicochemical, microbiological, and organoleptic properties of fermented lamb sausage enhanced by jack bean fortification

Processing lamb meat into fermented sausages can reduce the risk of spoilage and extend shelf life. Fermented sausages are commonly made using lactic acid bacteria (LAB), resulting in a product that is acidic and less firm. Therefore, it is necessary to add jack bean flour as a binding agent. This study aims to analyze physicochemical, microbiological and organoleptic characteristics of premium IPB lamb fermented sausages with varying proportions of jack bean flour (0% and 30%). The analyses included pH, water activity (aw), total acid, water, ash, fat, crude protein, carbohydrate, total LAB, E. coli, S. aureus, texture profile analysis (TPA), and sensory evaluation. The incorporation of jack bean flour into lamb meat fermented sausages can elevate the pH, springiness, chewiness, crude protein, and carbohydrate content of the fermented sausages. Furthermore, the addition of jack bean flour may reduce the total acid, aw, gumminess, water content, and bacteria (E. coli and S. aureus). The sensory aspects such as color in fermented sausage with addition of jack bean flour were preferred by the panelists. The addition of jack bean flour increased the total unsaturated fatty acids and essential amino acids in fermented sausages. The incorporation of jack bean flour aligns with the Indonesian National Standards for Meat Sausages 3820–2015 concerning moisture, fat, and protein content. This study suggests that incorporating lamb fermented sausage with 30% jack bean flour could result in significant benefits, including increased nutrition, enhanced sensory quality, improved texture, and extended storage life for fresh lamb products.

Сезонная динамика липидов тканей двустворчатого моллюска Cerastoderma glaucum псевдолиторальной зоны

Cerastoderma glaucum is a bivalve mollusk that inhabits the supralittoral zone of the Black Sea. It is a potential object of commercial aquaculture, which makes its lipid profile and adaptation mechanisms a prospective research topic. The authors analyzed the annual patterns in total lipids, phospholipids, polyglycerides, diglycerides, sterols, free fatty acids, and triacylglycerides to obtain the fatty acid profile of C. glaucum, harvested from the supralittoral zone of the upper Kazachya Bay, Sevastopol, Russia. The mollusks were collected in the winter, spring, and autumn of 2021–2022. This research featured their gills, foot, and hepatopancreas. An integrated methodological approach was used to d etermine total lipids, classify them, and study fatty acids. The total lipid level was 2.4–15.1 g/100 g raw weight. During the year, the dynamics of total lipids in the tissues of foot and gills varied from the highest values in the spring (9.6 ± 1.6 and 4.9 ± 1.9 g/100 g raw weight, respectively) to the lowest in the autumn (5.5 ± 0.5 and 2.5 ± 0.4 g/100 g raw weight, respectively). In the hepatopancreas, it peaked the winter and dropped in the autumn (19.4 ± 1.9 and 2.9 ± 0.4 g/100 g raw weight, respectively). In the winter, all tissue samples demonstrated a significant decrease in triacylglycerides. The composition of fatty acids and total lipids in all tissues included 23 types, i.e., nine saturated (35–40%), eight monounsaturated (15–34%), and six polyunsaturated (5.8–29%) from the families of omega-3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, and 13. Palmitic and oleic acids were among the dominant fatty acids. Seasonal dynamics of lipids in the samples of foot, gills, and hepatopancreas of C. glaucum revealed some general patterns. In the spring, total lipids peaked while structural and storage lipids had a uniform distribution. In the autumn and winter, total lipids went down whereas structural lipids increased. The fatty acid profile of C. glaucum from the supralittoral zone of the Black Sea differed from those of the same species from o ther regions.

Comparative analysis of transcriptome in oil biosynthesis between seeds and non-seed tissues of Symplocos paniculata fruit.

The Symplocos paniculata, a woody oil plant, has garnered attention for its oil-rich fruit, which exhibits potential for both oil production and ecological restoration endeavors, thereby presenting substantial developmental value. However, the comprehension of the distinctive oil biosynthesis and deposition strategies within the fruit's various compartments, coupled with the tissue-specific biosynthetic pathways yielding optimal fatty acid profiles, remains in its infancy. This investigation was designed to delineate the tissue specificity of oil biosynthetic disparities and to elucidate the molecular underpinnings within the fruit mesocarp and seeds of S. paniculata, employing lipidomic and transcriptomic analyses. The results revealed that oil biosynthesis within the fruit mesocarp commences approximately 40 days prior to that within the seeds, with a concomitant higher lipid content observed in the mesocarp, reaching 43% as opposed to 30% in the seeds. The fruit mesocarp was found to be enriched with palmitic acid (C16:0) and exhibited a harmonious ratio of saturated, monounsaturated, to polyunsaturated fatty acids (SFA: MUFA: PUFA=1:1:1), in stark contrast to the seed oil, which is predominantly composed of unsaturated fatty acids, accounting for 90% of its total FA content. Microstructural assessments have unveiled divergent oil deposition modalities; the fruit mesocarp oils are predominantly sequestered within oil cells (OC) and a spectrum of lipid droplets (LD), whereas the seeds predominantly harbor uniformly-sized LD. The expression patterns of pivotal genes implicated in oil biosynthesis were observed to be markedly contingent upon the tissue type and developmental stage. Notably, the light-responsive fatty acid synthase (FAS) gene demonstrated preferential transcription within the fruit mesocarp. In contrast, genes pivotal for carbon chain elongation, such as 3-ketoacyl-ACP synthase II (KASII) and fatty acyl-ACP thioesterase A (FATA), and desaturation, typified by Stearoyl-ACP desaturase (SAD) and Fatty Acid Desaturase (FAD), were noted to be more robustly transcribed within the seeds. Furthermore, isoenzyme gene families integral to the assembly of triacylglycerol (TAG), including long-chain acyl-CoA synthetases (LACSs), glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferases (GPATs), and lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferases (LPATs), exhibited pronounced tissue specificity. This research endeavors to clarify the molecular regulatory mechanisms that oversee oil biosynthesis within both seed and non-seed tissues of oilseed-bearing plants with entire fruits. Collectively, these findings lay the groundwork and offer technical scaffolding for future targeted cultivation of woody oil plants, with the ultimate aim of augmenting fruit oil yield and refining FA compositions.

Metabolic profile of fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and methylxanthines of cocoa kernels (Theobroma cacao L.) from different cultivars produced in cabruca and full sun farming systems

The demand for high-quality cocoa beans has increased in line with the growing global demand for chocolate. The chemical composition of cocoa beans can vary according to their origin and growing conditions. In this context, this study evaluated the influence of the cultivar type (CCN51 and PS1319) and the cocoa management system (cabruca and full sun) on the chemical composition of unfermented cocoa kernels. The cultivation system influenced the fatty acid composition of cocoa kernels, with higher values of linoleic acid associated with the full sun system, although higher total lipid contents were obtained in the cabruca system. The cultivar influenced the content of saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), total unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) and the saturated/unsaturated ratio (S/U). Lower levels of total phenolic compounds, total anthocyanins and antioxidant properties were found in the full sun system, especially in the PS1319 cultivar. Higher levels of epicatechin and catechin were found in the cocoa kernel of the CCN51 cultivar. Theobromine and caffeine were not influenced by the treatments. Neither the PCA of total lipids and fatty acids, nor the PCA of antioxidant properties, phenolic compounds and methylxanthines indicated an isolated clustering between cultivar and cultivation system. The results showed that the factors under study influenced the chemical composition of the unfermented cocoa kernel. Furthermore, they indicated that the migration from traditional systems, such as cabruca, to full sun systems can reduce the total lipids and phenolic compounds content of the cocoa beans. When planning new plantations, the choice of genetic material should also be carefully considered to produce higher-quality cocoa butter and beans with a higher phenolic compound content.

Lactational performance and hematological effects of capsaicin supplementation in dairy cows: A meta-analysis

A meta-analysis was performed to investigate the effects of capsaicin (CAP) on lactational performance and blood chemistry and cell counts in dairy cattle. The database comprised 11 peer-reviewed studies published between 2011 and 2024. The overall effect of CAP, challenge (e.g., ketosis, glucose tolerance, LPS), and dose were considered explanatory variables in the analysis. Lactation performance response variables included DMI, milk yield (MY), ECM yield, feed efficiency (FE), milk components, and BW. Hematological response variables included red and white blood cell counts and blood BHB, total fatty acids, insulin, and glucose concentrations. Data were analyzed using random- and mixed-effect models in the "robumeta" package in RStudio. Milk yield was increased by 2.9% by CAP when compared with control. Capsaicin supplementation increased FE by 3.4% compared with control. Milk fat concentration and yield were also increased by CAP compared with control by 2.6% and 4.0%, respectively. Blood glucose concentrations were decreased 2.5% by CAP supplementation, whereas insulin levels were unaffected. Cows fed CAP during a challenge had higher MY and FE and tended to have lower blood glucose than their control counterparts. Overall, this analysis suggests that CAP supplementation may be directly affecting host physiology by altering glucose metabolism, but further research to define the mechanism is warranted.

Sago palm weevil larvae: larval ontogeny and nutritional value assessed from enzymatic activity and in vitro digestibility

Abstract Sago palm weevil larvae (SPWL, Rhynchophorus vulneratus) have potential for use as food and feed. This study aimed to investigate their development, digestive enzyme activity, nutrient values, and digestible protein using an in vitro digestibility technique. Bioassays for SPWL at 21, 28, 35, 42, 49, and 56 days after hatching (DAH) were conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed, and means were compared at using Bonferroni (Dunn) t-tests and orthogonal polynomial contrasts. Trypsin activity significantly increased at 35 DAH (, quadratic effect ), with peak chymotrypsin activity at 28 DAH (). Lipase activity showed both linear and quadratic increases (), and cellulase activity also increased significantly (, linear and quadratic terms ). Meanwhile, the A:T ratio increased significantly (, quadratic effect ) with age-related rises in these digestive enzyme activities. The highest crude protein content in SPWL was observed at 42 DAH (), with peak carbohydrate at 28 DAH (). Phenylalanine and histidine levels increased linearly (), while lysine and total essential amino acids peaked at 42 DAH (, linear and quadratic terms ). Levels of linoleic acid, total polyunsaturated fatty acids, and the n-6:n-3 ratio peaked at 49 DAH (). In vitro protein digestibility assays were performed using enzymes extracted from quails, broilers, Thai native chickens, and ducks. Significant increases in digestibility were attributed to SPWL protein content and age, particularly beyond 42 DAH (, linear and quadratic terms ), except with duck enzymes. In conclusion, these findings suggest that SPWL cultivation, particularly between 42 and 56 DAH, provides a potential alternative protein source with substantial nutritional benefits for poultry feed. The promise of SPWL to contribute to more sustainable and efficient poultry feeding practices is evident, and further in vivo studies are warranted to validate these results.

Dog Breed and Starch Gelatinisation Correlation in Food Digestibility and Faecal Traits.

Large dog breeds commonly produce unformed faeces. The present study hypothesised that foods for large dog breeds require higher starch gelatinisation (SG) to reduce organic matter flow to colon. Fifteen Rottweilers (Ro; 49.4 ± 6.12 kg), 18 Beagles (Be; 12.13 ± 1.75 kg) and 20 Shih-Tzus (ST; 4.62 ± 1.15 kg) were fed one of three diets, all based on the same sorghum formulation, processed to obtain three levels of SG: SG90 (91.8% SG), SG50 (50.7% SG) and SG30 (27.4% SG). Foods were provided for 23 days, and the coefficient of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD) of nutrients, faecal production and fermentation products, Na, K and Cl apparent absorption and gastrointestinal transit time (GTT) were evaluated. Results were submitted to analysis of variance considering SG, breed and their interactions, and means compared by the Tukey test (p < 0.05). All dogs promptly ate the foods. Faeces scores were lower for Ro than for Be and ST, and lower for SG30 than SG90 (p < 0.05). Faeces pH was higher, and total short-chain fatty acids were lower for SG90 than for SG50 and SG30 (p < 0.01), regardless of breed. No diet effect was observed for GTT (p > 0.05), but it was lower for Ro (41.7 ± 6.2 h) than for ST (48.7 ± 8.6 h). The CTTAD of nutrients was lower for SG30, intermediary for SG50 and higher for SG90 (p < 0.05), and among breeds CTTAD was higher for Be than ST and Ro (p < 0.05), which did not differ from each other, except for crude protein CTTAD which was lower for Ro (p < 0.05). The apparent absorption of Na and K was higher for the SG90 treatment, and for Be in comparison with Ro and ST (p < 0.05). Food SG had a remarkable influence on Ro faeces formation and on the CTTAD in all breeds. Greater fermentation in the colon and lower protein CTTAD may be involved in Ro unformed faeces formation.

Screening Dietary Fat Sources and Concentrations Included in Low- and High-Forage Diets Using an In Vitro Gas Production System

Including dietary fat can increase the energy density of diets fed to ruminants, reducing dry matter intake (DMI). Effects of different fat sources on nutrient digestion and fermentation can vary depending on dietary fat concentration and the forage-to-concentrate ratio (F:C). Therefore, this study’s objective was to screen the effects of fat sources supplemented at different concentrations to high- and low-forage diets on in vitro digestibility and fermentation. Treatments included either low forage (LF; 35%) or high forage (HF; 70%) with two fat levels (6 or 9% DM) using six different fat sources, plus control. The control diet (CON) had a basal level of fat in the diet (3% fat; 0% fat inclusion), and fat sources were added to attain 6% or 9% dietary fat and consisted of the following: Coconut oil, CO; Poultry fat, PF; Palm oil, PO; Palm kernel oil, PKO; Soybean oil, SOY; and Ca Salts, MEG. In vitro Gas Production (GP) modules were randomly assigned to treatments in a 2 × 2 × 7 factorial design and were incubated for four 24 h runs. The CO-fed module had the highest dry matter (DM) apparent digestibility (AD) (p &lt; 0.01), followed by SOY and PF. The true DM digestibility (TDMD) and organic matter (OM) AD were the highest in CO (p &lt; 0.01) than the other fat types. The AD for DM, OM, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) was higher in LF (p &lt; 0.01). The 6% fat inclusion had a higher GP (109 vs. 103 mL ± 2.09; p &lt; 0.03). Total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration was lower in different fat types than the CON and the acetate molar proportion (p &gt; 0.01). The propionate was the lowest for the CON, which increased the acetate to propionate (A:P) ratio (p &lt; 0.01). These results suggest that LF diets with high fat concentrations can be utilized, and different fat sources may improve DM and fiber digestibility.

Blood EPA and DHA status among people living in the United States from 2000 to 2023

Long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3), are well-known for their various health benefits, including cardiovascular and cognitive health. In this study we explored the EPA+DHA blood status across different states within the United States. A widely used marker to assess the EPA+DHA status is the omega-3 index – defined as the % of EPA+DHA in red blood cells (RBC) in relation to total fatty acids. A systematic literature search was conducted for US-studies from 2000 until October 2023 reporting EPA+DHA blood values. Further inclusion criteria were: information in which US state the study was carried out, no pregnant women, at least 16 years of age. A total of 46 studies met all inclusion criteria. EPA+DHA levels from studies utilizing blood metrics other than RBC were converted to an estimated RBC EPA+DHA (eRBC EPA+DHA) status marker using established conversion equations. The mean eRBC EPA+DHA across the US was 5.28% and, is in line with previous investigations. Most US states showed an average eRBC EPA+DHA in the range 4.50% to 5.50%. Furthermore, we found that coastal states tend to have higher eRBC EPA+DHA (5.26%) than inland states (4.86%). This is consistent with the slightly higher fish consumption in coastal states compared to inland states. The data from the studies included in the evaluation show that the blood status of EPA+DHA is suboptimal. The supply of EPA and DHA should be improved, especially in inland states. Further research is needed to better monitor EPA+DHA status in the US. Since the EPA+DHA blood status is a modifiable risk factor for many diseases, public health officials should take steps to emphasize the significance of n-3 PUFAs in preserving the health of the US population.

LC-MS and GC-MS Analyses on Green Algae Penicillus Capitatus: Cytotoxic, Antimicrobial and Anticholinesterase Activity Screening Enhanced by Molecular Docking & Dynamics and ADME Studies.

In this comprehensive screening study, the chemical composition, and cytotoxic, antimicrobial, and anticholinergic activities of the green algae Penicillus capitatus, collected from Antalya-Türkiye, were determined as in vitro and in silico. GC-MS analysis of the hexane extract revealed a high content of fatty acids, with hexadecanoic acid constituting half of the total fatty acid content. LC-HRMS analysis of the DCM:MeOH extract identified ascorbic acid as the most abundant compound, followed by (-)-epigallocatechin and salicylic acid. The DCM:MeOH extract exhibited potent cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 breast cancer cell lines, outperforming doxorubicin with lower IC50 values and a higher selectivity index. Additionally, the extract demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans, along with selective inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (hAChE) over butyrylcholinesterase (hBChE). Molecular docking and dynamics studies revealed that apigenin-7-O-glucoside and epigallocatechin form stable interactions with estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and hAChE, suggesting their potential as inhibitors. In silico ADME studies indicated favorable pharmacokinetic profiles for the detected compounds, supporting their potential as drug candidates. The promising cytotoxic activity of the P. capitatus extracts, coupled with significant antimicrobial properties and selective hAChE inhibition, highlights their therapeutic potential for breast cancer treatment, infection management, and neurodegenerative disease intervention.