Total Phytosterols Research Articles

Comparison of microwave and roasting pretreatments on peony seed oil: Compositions, physicochemical properties and emulsification characteristics

Peony seeds, as a valuable emerging oil resource, are rich in unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), tocopherols, phytosterols and sterols. Based on the different heating conduction methods, this study investigates the effects of the microwave and roasting pretreatments on the quality, compositions, physicochemical properties and emulsification characteristics of peony seed oil (PSO). Peony seeds were pretreated by microwave at 700W for 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0min, pretreated by roasting at 120 ℃ for 10, 20, 30, 40min, respectively. The nanoemulsions of PSO were prepared with Tween-20 by the ultrasound technology. The results showed that microwave increased the oil yield, SV, p-AV, TOV, TBARS and BI, but decreased AV of PSO. Roasting increased the oil yield, AV, SV, PV, p-AV, TOV and BI; but decreased the TBARS level of PSO. Microwave pretreatment decreased the γ-tocopherol, and β-carotene levels of PSO. However, roasting increased the γ-tocopherol and β-carotene levels. Total phytosterol level gradually decreased with the prolong of heating time. α-linolenic, linoleic and oleic acids were the dominated fatty acids in the PSO. Microwave and roasting slightly decreased the UFAs level. Microwave and roasting increased the particle size and Ke value of PSO nanoemulsion. The longer storage time or higher incubation temperature could increase the particle size, PDI, zeta-potential and Ke of PSO nanoemulsion.

Dysbiosis index and fecal concentrations of sterols, long-chain fatty acids and unconjugated bile acids in dogs with inflammatory protein-losing enteropathy.

Canine protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) is a syndrome characterized by gastrointestinal loss of proteins. While fecal microbiome and metabolome perturbations have been reported in dogs with chronic enteropathy, they have not been widely studied in dogs with PLE. Therefore, the study aims were to investigate gut microbiome and targeted fecal metabolites in dogs with inflammatory PLE (iPLE) and evaluate whether treatment affects these changes at short-term follow-up. Thirty-eight dogs with PLE and histopathological evidence of gastrointestinal inflammation and 47 healthy dogs were enrolled. Fecal samples were collected before endoscopy (T0) and after one month of therapy (T1). Microbiome and metabolome alterations were investigated using qPCR assays (dysbiosis index, DI) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (long-chain fatty acids, sterols, unconjugated bile acids), respectively. Median (min-max) DI of iPLE dogs was 0.4 (-5.9 to 7.7) and was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) than median DI in healthy dogs [-2.0 (-6.0 to 5.3)]. No significant associations were found between DI and selected clinicopathological variables. DI did not significantly differ between T0 and T1. In iPLE dogs, at T0, myristic, palmitic, linoleic, oleic, cis-vaccenic, stearic, arachidonic, gondoic, docosanoic, erucic, and nervonic acids were significantly higher (p < 0.0001) than healthy dogs. In iPLE dogs, oleic acid (p = 0.044), stearic acid (p = 0.013), erucic acid (p = 0.018) and nervonic acid (p = 0.002) were significantly decreased at T1. At T0, cholesterol and lathosterol (p < 0.0001) were significantly higher in iPLE dogs compared to healthy dogs, while total measured phytosterols were significantly lower (p = 0.001). No significant differences in total sterols, total phytosterols and total zoosterols content were found at T1, compared to T0. At T0, total primary bile acids and total secondary bile acids did not significantly differ between healthy control dogs and iPLE dogs. No significant differences in fecal bile acid content were found at T1. Dysbiosis and lipid metabolism perturbations were observed in dogs with iPLE. Different therapeutic protocols lead to an improvement of some but not all metabolome perturbations at short-term follow-up.

Comprehensive profiling and evaluation of free/conjugated Phytosterols in crops using chemical derivatization coupled with UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS

Phytosterols are naturally existed in crops but their detection is constrained by sensitivity and accuracy due to the inefficient analytical approaches. This study hypothesizes that an untargeted analytical method combining chemical derivatization with ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry can identify the various composition and contents of phytosterols in different crops. The results showed that chemical derivatization significantly enhanced intensity of phytosterols compared with non-derivatized samples. Using precursor ion scanning (PIS) of m/z 252.0690, dansyl chloride-labeled phytosterols were identified, demonstrating that rapeseeds had the highest content of total phytosterol (3981.2 ± 95.3 mg/kg), followed by sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, corn and rice, respectively. Principal component analysis revealed significant variations in phytosterol distribution among 15 crop samples, suggesting the applicability of phytosterol profile as a marker for phytosterols-contained crops. Hence, the proposed analytic approach proves high efficiency and accuracy in determining phytosterols and advances the study for phytosterol-enriched crops.

Popcorn quality parameters and nutritional properties of oily maize (Zea mays var. ‘Everta’) hybrids subjected to different thermal treatments

This research assessed the popcorn quality parameters and nutritional properties of 5 oily maize (Zea mays var. ‘Everta’) hybrids under several thermal treatments (hot air, microwave, and wet cooking). Grains contained 2.16–4.51 % crude fat and 11.08–12.94 % protein, displayed a similar amount of individual p-coumaric and ferulic acid derivatives (p > 0.05) (free: 3.61–40.53 μg/g; bound: 1621.75–1970.94 μg/g), and total phytosterols ranging from 8.76 to 13.17 μg/g. Hot air- and wet cooking-treated grains showed the highest expansion volume (121.5–133.1 mL), and there were no differences in yield and residual percentage (p < 0.05). PCA analysis clustered samples 1 and 3 as the most influential on bound phenolics, expansion time, yield, and popped grains weight, mostly under hot air and wet cooking treatments. Spearman's correlations outlined the potential of the grains' total and bound phenolics on popping quality (weight and expansion time: 0.50–0.90). Results suggested the oily hybrids' nutritional potential and suitability to produce high-quality popcorn.

PROXIMATE, PHYTOCHEMICAL, MINERAL COMPOSITION AND ANTIOXIDANT EFFECTS OF METHANOL EXTRACT OF Persea americana (Avacado pear) SEED

The proximate, phytochemical, mineral, and antioxidant composition of Persea americana seed methanol extract was examined in this work. Standard procedures were used for both proximate, mineral composition and quantitative evaluations. Lipid peroxidation, reducing power, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl tests were used to measure the antioxidant activity. Using absorption spectroscopy techniques, antioxidant vitamins A, E, and C as well as enzymes (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase) were evaluated. Based on the proximate analysis, the P. americana seeds have higher levels of protein (21.00 ± 0.88 %), fat (25.73 ± 2.01 %), and carbohydrates (32.05 ± 1.21 %), but they have lower levels of moisture (8.98±0.10 %) and ash (3.28±0.16 %). A quantitative phytochemical study found that there were phenols (3.51±0.42 mg/100 g),saponins (0.05±0.38 mg/100 g), alkaloid (0.70±0.37mg/100 g), beta-carotene (32.24±0.55mg/100 g), lycopene (6.84±0.52 mg/100 g), flavonoids (34.14±3.13 mg/100 g), phytate (0.00±0.03 mg/100 g), cardiac glycosides (0.37±0.01 %), total phytosterol (21.25±0.12 mg/100 g), stigmasterol (13.16±0.15 mg/100 g) and campesterol (6.16±0.12 mg/100 g). The mineral composition showed that iron and manganese had the lowest quantities, while potassium, calcium, and magnesium had the highest concentrations. The analyzed samples' potential therapeutic benefits in phytomedicine may be attributed to their respective chemical compositions. Out of all the antioxidant vitamins tested, vitamin E had the highest amount (267.73 ± 0.07 mg/100g), followed by vitamin A (7.60 ± 0.01 mg/100 g) and vitamin C (3.88 ± 0.03 mg/100 g). As extract concentration increased, there was a substantial (p&lt;0.05) rise in the DPPH scavenging effect and suppression of...

Exploring somatic embryogenesis in Ajuga multiflora Bunge: Profiling lipophilic metabolites via HPLC, GC-FID, and GCMS– analysis

The present study aims to assess the effect of different concentrations of auxins and combinations of plant growth regulators (PGRs), specifically auxin and cytokinin, on somatic embryogenesis in Ajuga multiflora. We also aim to compare the lipophilic metabolite profiles, such as carotenoids (CAs), fatty acids (FAs), phytosterols (PSs), and tocopherols (TPs), in globular somatic embryos (SEs), germinated SEs, and shoots of SEs derived plantlets. This assessment is carried out utilizing high performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography-flame-ionization detection, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry techniques. The results reveal that the application of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) had the most significant impact on somatic embryogenesis, inducing both SE initiation (34.4%) and the number of SEs (3.5) per explant. Among the explants used, leaf explants were found to be the most effective for SE induction (SEI). Additionally, the study explores the combined effect of 2,4-D and cytokinins (N6-benzyladenine, N6-BA, or 1-phenyl-3-(1,2,3-thiadiazol-5-yl) urea, TDZ) on somatic embryogenesis, highlighting optimal conditions for SEI percentages and the number of SEs per explant. The maximum SE induction rate (100%) and the number of SEs (45.9) per leaf explant were obtained on an SEI medium with 30 µM of 2,4-D and 2.3 µM of TDZ. The maturation and conversion of SEs were also examined, emphasizing the role of GA3 in achieving the highest conversion percentage (94.0 ± 2.7 at 0.8 µM GA3). Furthermore, the study details the biochemical composition during various stages of somatic embryogenesis, including CAs, TPs, PSs, and FAs. Globular SEs displayed comparatively lower concentrations of CAs than their germinated counterparts and shoots from SE-derived plantlets, while the total PSs content remained relatively consistent across all stages. Conversely, fatty acids tended to accumulate more in globular SEs, with the exception of α-Linolenic acid. These findings provide valuable insights into the optimization of somatic embryogenesis protocols in A. multiflora, with implications for plant tissue culture, regeneration and lipophilic metabolites production.

Supercritical CO2 Extraction of Fatty Acids, Phytosterols, and Volatiles from Myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) Fruit.

Myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) is a coastal Mediterranean aromatic medicinal plant rich in essential oil components, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. Studies highlight the potential health benefits of myrtle bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antiproliferative properties. Since limited research exists on myrtle fruit's lipid fraction, the aim of this study was to apply supercritical CO2 extraction to obtain bioactive compounds from myrtle berries focusing on the fatty acids, sterols, and essential oils. The optimization of the supercritical CO2 extraction of myrtle fruit using CO2 as solvent was carried out using the response surface methodology with Box-Behnken experimental design. The following conditions were tested: temperature (40, 50, and 60 °C), pressure (200, 300, and 400 bar), and flow rate (20, 30, and 40 g min-1) on the yield of lipid extract as well as on the yield of fatty acids, phytosterols, and volatiles present in the extract and constituting its bioactive potential. In the extracts examined, 36 fatty acids, 7 phytosterols, and 13 volatiles were identified. The average yield of the extract was 5.20%, the most abundant identified fatty acid was essential cis-linolenic acid (76.83%), almost 90% of the total phytosterols were β-sitosterol (12,465 mg kg-1), while myrtenyl acetate (4297 mg kg-1) was the most represented volatile compound. The optimal process conditions obtained allow the formulation of extracts with specific compositions.

Development of phytosterol-loaded silver nanoparticles for ameliorating haemorrhoidal complications via the AMPK pathway—a mechanistic approach

The aim of the current study was to synthesize silver nanoparticles (PLSNPs) using green technology by means of phytosterol-enriched fractions from Blumea lacera extracts (EAF) and evaluate their toxicological and anti-haemorrhoidal potential. The average size of the synthesized particles was found to be 85.64 nm by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Energy dispersive spectroscopy showed the elemental composition of PLSNPs to be 12.59% carbon and 87.41% silver, indicating the capping of phytochemicals on the PLSNPs. The PLSNPs were also standardized for total phytosterol content using chemical methods and high-perfromance liquid chromatography. The PLSNPs were found to be safe up to 1000 mg kg−1 as no toxicity was observed in the acute and sub-acute toxicity studies performed as per OECD guidelines. After the induction of haemorrhoids, experimental animals were treated with different doses of EAF, PLSNPs and a standard drug (Pilex) for 7 d, and on the eighth day the ameliorative potential was assessed by evaluating the haemorrhoidal (inflammatory severity index, recto-anal coefficient) and biochemical (tumour necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6) parameters and histology of the recto-anal tissue. The results showed that treatment with PLSNPs and Pilex significantly (p < 0.05) reduced haemorrhoidal and biochemical parameters. This was further supported by restoration of altered antioxidant status. Further, a marked reduction in the inflammatory zones along with minimal dilated blood vessels was observed in the histopathological study. The results of molecular docking studies also confirmed the amelioration of haemorrhoids via AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-mediated reduction of inflammation and endothelin B receptor modification by PLSNPs. In conclusion, PLSNPs could be a good alternative for the management of haemorrhoids.

Chemical Composition and Geographic Variation of Cold Pressed Balanites aegyptiaca Kernel Oil.

With the increasing impacts of climate change, establishing more sustainable and robust plants such as desert dates (Balanites aegyptiaca) seems to be necessary. Known for its resilience in arid conditions, this tree has the potential to become a more important food source, particularly for its potential to yield edible oil. This study characterized Balanites kernel oil (BKO) as a promising oil source in arid regions, studying the influence of geographical origin and environmental factors. Moroccan and Sudanese BKO samples were analyzed and compared with Mauritanian BKO. In the fatty acid profile, unsaturated fatty acids constituted over 70% of the BKO profile, with a predominance of linoleic acid (Li), oleic acid (Ol), palmitic acid (Pa), and stearic acid (St). Consequently, the predominant triacylglycerols were PaLiLi, PaLiOl, LiLiOl, OlLiOl, and StLiOl. α-Tocopherol dominated the tocochromanol composition (324 to 607 mg/kg), followed by γ-tocopherol (120 to 226 mg/kg), constituting 90% of the total tocochromanols. The total phytosterol content in BKO ranged from 871 to 2218 mg/kg oil, with β-sitosterol dominating (58% to 74%). Principal Component Analysis revealed that the geographical origin significantly influences BKO composition, emphasizing environmental factors, particularly water deficit and/or temperatures. Notably, Moroccan BKO collected from an area characterized by high aridity and relatively low winter temperatures, showcased a unique profile in fatty acid, phytosterols, and tocochromanols. The valorization of BKO presents an opportunity for local agricultural development in arid regions and a role model for plant development and agricultural practices in other parts of the world.

Fatty Acid and Sterol Profiles of Commonly Available Street Foods in Sri Lanka: Comparison to Other Countries in the Asian Region

Informal sector foods are considered a vector of unhealthy fatty acids linked to noncommunicable diseases (NCD). This study is aimed at investigating the hazardous and nutritional fatty acids and sterols in commonly consumed ready-to-eat (RTE) street foods (n=108) in Sri Lanka using modified and validated AOAC and AOCS test methods. Significant variations (p&lt;0.05) were detected in fatty acid composition among different foods. A comparatively higher fat content (&gt;17.5 g/100 g) was observed in 95% of pastry samples, while 51.5% of total foods exceeded the national threshold limit (8 g/100 g) for children. Saturated fatty acid (SFA) was higher than 1.5 g/100 g in 93% of food. SFA was more predominant than polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in all foods. The most prominent SFA was palmitic acid. Oleic acid was the major unsaturated fatty acid. Total trans fatty acids detected in all foods were in the range of 0.12-1.60 g/100 g. The PUFA/SFA ratios of all analysed street foods (0.16-0.28) were less than the recommended PUFA/SFA ratio of ≥0.4. Omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratios of all food were 18 : 1-24 : 1, which is higher than the WHO-recommended ratio of 4 : 1-5 : 1. Mean atherogenicity and thrombogenicity indices were 0.80-1.63 and 1.47-2.76, respectively. The essential fatty acids of α-linoleic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid were less than the required nutritional intake. The most prominent phytosterol is the β-sitosterol in all foods, and total phytosterols were 3.29-136.65 mg/serving. Cholesterol was in the range of 0.36 to 256.85 mg/serving. These results suggest that consumption of these selected street foods may aid in increasing the risks of NCDs in consumers, and findings emphasise the urgency of improving the nutritional quality of street foods by continuously monitoring and regulating the present culinary practices. This study is the first to report a comprehensive fatty acid composition, including sterols, in RTE foods.

Negative Association of Lignan and Phytosterol Intake with Stress Perception during the COVID-19 Pandemic-A Polish Study on Young Adults.

There has been an increasing global prevalence of depression and other psychiatric diseases in recent years. Perceived stress has been proven to be associated with psychiatric and somatic symptoms. Some animal and human studies have suggested that consuming foods abundant in lignans and phytosterols may be associated with lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety. Still, the evidence is not yet strong enough to draw firm conclusions. Thus, we investigated the association between dietary intake of these phytochemicals and the level of stress experienced by adult individuals. Diet was assessed using self-reported 7-day dietary records. The intakes of lignans and phytosterols were estimated using databases with their content in various food products. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was implemented to measure the level of perceived stress. A logistic regression analysis was used to test for associations. The odds of elevated PSS were negatively associated with dietary intake of total phytosterols, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol, with evidence of a decreasing trend across tertiles of phytochemicals. The analysis for doubling the intake reinforced the aforementioned relationships and found protective effects against PSS for total lignans, pinoresinol, and campesterol. Habitual inclusion of lignans and phytosterols in the diet may play a role in psychological health. To address the global outbreak of depression and other mental health issues triggered by stress, it is important to take a holistic approach. There is a need to develop effective strategies for prevention and treatment, among which certain dietary interventions such as consumption of products abundant in lignans and phytosterols may play a substantial role.

Elevated nitrogen fertilization differentially affects jojoba wax phytochemicals, fatty acids and fatty alcohols.

Jojoba wax is gaining popularity among cosmetics consumers for its skin wound healing and rejuvenation bioactivities, attributed to collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis. However, information regarding wax phytochemical composition and quality parameters, as well as effect of cultivation practices, and fertilization in particular, on wax quality is limited. The aim of the current work was to study the effect of nitrogen (N) availability to jojoba plants on wax phytochemical composition and beneficial skin-related contents. For this, wax quality from a six-year fertilization experiment with five N application levels was evaluated. The chemical parameters included antioxidant activity, free fatty acid, total tocopherol, total phytosterol and oxidative stability, as well as fatty acid and fatty alcohol profile. Our results reveal that the majority of wax quality traits were affected by N fertilization level, either positively or negatively. Interestingly, while fatty acids were unaffected, fatty alcohol composition was significantly altered by N level. Additionally, fruit load also largely affected wax quality, and, due to jojoba's biennial alternate bearing cycles, harvest year significantly affected all measured parameters. Results shed light on the effects of N application on various biochemical constituents of jojoba wax, and imply that N availability should be considered part of the entire agricultural management plan to enhance wax quality. Some traits are also suggested as possible chemical quality parameters for jojoba wax.

Steam explosion pretreatment enhances free/combined phytosterol extraction and utilization in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) and its processed products: Insights from SPE-GC approach

The study investigates the impact of steam explosion pretreatment on the distribution of free and combined phytosterols within rapeseed and its derived products. Utilizing solid phase extraction-gas chromatography (SPE-GC) analysis, we elucidated the composition and distribution of phytosterols in five rapeseed varieties and their corresponding processed oils and cakes. The results indicated that Zhongyou 516 and Xiwang 988 are richer in combined phytosterols, whereas Dadi 199, Zhongyouza 501, and Xiwang 291 have a greater concentration of free phytosterols. Steam explosion pretreatment significantly increased the extraction proportion of combined phytosterols in rapeseeds. Throughout the oil process, more than half of the total phytosterol content, specifically 57.0%, was transferred from the steam explosion-treated rapeseed into the rapeseed oil. The variety Xiwang 291 showed the highest efficiency in this transfer, achieving a rate of 61.7%. The study provides crucial data for the enhancement of rapeseed processing techniques and the efficient utilization of phytosterols. Moreover, the study highlights the potential use of the ratio of free to combined phytosterols as a discriminator for different rapeseed oil varieties, offering valuable insights for quality assurance and product differentiation in the industry.

Phytosterol intake and risk of coronary artery disease: Results from 3 prospective cohort studies

BackgroundPhytosterols are structurally similar to cholesterol and partially inhibit intestinal absorption of cholesterol, although their impact on coronary artery disease (CAD) risk remains to be elucidated. ObjectivesThis study aimed to prospectively assess the associations between total and individual phytosterol intake and CAD risk in United States health professionals. MethodsThe analysis included 213,992 participants from 3 prospective cohorts—the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS), NHSII, and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study—without cardiovascular disease or cancer at baseline. Diet was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire every 2–4 y since baseline. Associations between phytosterol intake and the risk of CAD, such as nonfatal myocardial infarction and fatal CAD, were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression models. ResultsMore than 5,517,993 person-years, 8725 cases with CAD were documented. Comparing extreme quintiles, pooled hazard ratios (95% CIs) of CAD were 0.93 (0.86, 1.01; P-trend = 0.16) for total phytosterols, 0.89 (0.82, 0.96; P-trend = 0.05) for campesterol, 0.95 (0.88, 1.02; P-trend = 0.10) for stigmasterol, and 0.92 (0.85, 1.00; P-trend = 0.09) for β-sitosterol. Nonlinear associations were observed for total phytosterols, campesterol, and β-sitosterol: the risk reduction plateaued at intakes above ∼180, 30, and 130 mg/d, respectively (P-nonlinearity < 0.001). In a subset of participants (N range between 11,983 and 22,039), phytosterol intake was inversely associated with plasma concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and IL-6 and positively associated with adiponectin, whereas no significant associations were observed for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol or C-reactive protein concentrations. ConclusionsHigher long-term intake of total and major subtypes of phytosterols may be associated with a modest reduction in CAD risk, displaying a nonlinear relationship that plateau at moderate intake levels. The role of phytosterols in preventing CAD warrants further investigation.

Effect of oil extraction methods on walnut oil quality characteristics and the functional properties of walnut protein isolate

Walnut oils were obtained by supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SCB), cold-pressing (CP), hexane extraction (HE), and subcritical butane extraction (SBE), and walnut protein isolates (WPI) from the walnut cakes were performed. The results indicate that SCB has the highest oil yield for walnut oil, which was 62.72%, and the total content of trace nutrients (total tocopherols, total phytosterols, and total phenolic compounds) in SCB-walnut oil was also the highest at 2186.75 mg/kg, approximately 1.05 times higher than CP-walnut oil and 1.21 times higher than SBE-walnut oil. Meanwhile, the treatment of WPI with SCB results in a decrease in β-Sheet and α-Helix structures and an increase in β-Turn and Random coil structures. Thereby increasing its oil-holding capacity (OHC) and solubility by approximately 1.16 times and 1.27 times compared to CP, respectively. Interestingly, SCB as a green oil production technology, also has good prospects for retaining WPI functionality characteristics.

Phytosterol determination in lipid emulsions for parenteral nutrition

ObjectiveThe presence of phytosterols in vegetal lipid emulsions has been associated with alterations of liver function tests. Determination of phytosterols content, currently undeclared, would allow the development of strategies to prevent or treat these alterations. Method3-4 non-consecutive batches of 6 lipid emulsions from different providers (Clinoleic™, Intralipid™, Lipofundina™, Lipoplus™, Omegaven™ and Smoflipid™) were analyzed. Differences in total phytosterol assay between providers and batches were statistically studied by a one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric approximation and post hoc Scheffe test (p < 0.05) ResultsThe absence of phytosterols was confirmed in Omegaven™, emulsion based on fish oil. The highest assay of phytosterols (422.4 ± 130.5 µg/mL) has been related with the highest percentage of soya bean oil in Intralipid. In the remaining emulsions, concentrations were from 120 to 210 µg/mL related to the percentage of soya bean oil. Statistically significant differences of phytosterol content in lipid emulsions were observed among different providers (F = 23.59; p = 0.000) as well as among non-consecutive batches. Clinolenic™ (F = 23.59; p = 0.000), Intralipid™ (F = 978.25; p = 0.000), Lipofundina™ TCL/TCM (F = 5.43; p = 0.045), Lipoplus™ (F = 123.53; p = 0.000) and Smoflipid™ (16.78; p = 0.000). Except for Lipofundina™ TCL/TCM, the differences between batches were marked. ConclusionsLipid emulsions, registered on Spanish pharmaceutical market, contain variable quantities of phytosterols dependent on commercial brand and batch.

Increase of tocopherols, phytosterols, and carotenoids in high‐oil subtropical maize after recurrent selection

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesSubtropical high‐oil maize (HOM) genotypes have been successfully developed, but further evaluation of the content of liposoluble nutraceuticals is essential. The aim of this study was to determine the concentration and profile of tocopherols, phytosterols, and carotenoids in HOM and the effects of high‐oil selection in white and yellow subtropical populations.FindingsResults indicated that recurrent selection increase of germ proportion (9%–12%) in the total kernel had a direct effect on the oil content and increased the contents of carotenoids, tocopherols, and phytosterols. In particular, carotenoids improved only in yellow populations, with an improvement in total carotenoid (from 13 to 17 mg/kg dry weight [dw]), provitamin A, β‐carotenes, and β‐cryptoxanthin. α‐ and γ‐Tocopherols showed an overall increase in the total content (up to 39 mg/kg dw). Total phytosterols increased significantly in both populations, with similar changes in composition (up to 374 mg/kg dw). β‐Sitosterol was the predominant phytosterol associated with HOM.ConclusionsRecurrent selection for high oil in subtropical maize effectively altered the liposoluble nutraceuticals compounds of improved kernels in terms of carotenoids, tocopherols, and phytosterols, with modifications in their profiles.Significance and NoveltyThis research demonstrated that recurrent selection is an effective traditional breeding tool that improves oil, tocopherols, phytosterols, and carotenoids in subtropical maize. This investigation represents a first step toward understanding how the improvement of oil content affects the lipophilic nutraceutical content.

Study on the application of two magnesium salts in low temperature adsorption refining of fragrant rapeseed oil

Magnesium silicate and basic magnesium carbonate were characterized and their application in the low temperature adsorption refining of fragrant rapeseed oil was investigated. The results showed that both materials had a loose porous structure, but their particle size distribution, active functional groups, crystallinity, specific surface area, pore volume, and pore size differed. Under the optimal adsorption refining conditions, magnesium silicate and basic magnesium carbonate reduced the phospholipid content from 4.18 to 0.83 and 1.57 mg/g, acid value from 1.67 to 0.88 and 0.90 mgKOH/g, yellow value from 38.2 to 32.1 and 36.2, and red value from 2.9 to 1.7 and 2.2, respectively. The use of these two magnesium salts did not significantly alter the composition of fatty acids and the content of tocopherol. The retention rates of total phytosterol by magnesium silicate and basic magnesium carbonate were 93.6% and 95.9%, respectively. The retention rates of total phenol were 88.9% and 93.9%, respectively. The adsorption refining process proved to be advantageous in purifying fragrant rapeseed oil while maintaining the dominant flavor components relatively unchanged (P < 0.05). As a result, these two magnesium salts have the potential to be used during the low temperature adsorption refining process of fragrant rapeseed oil.

Application of pilot‐scale molecular distillation for enrichment of phytonutrients from a novel deodorizer distillate of the margarine and shortenings industry

AbstractBackgroundA wiped‐film molecular distillation (WFMD) pilot plant was used to evaluate process conditions for enriching phytonutrients (PN) from a novel vegetable oil deodorizer distillate (VODD) of the margarine and shortenings industry. This byproduct results from the incorporation of new blends of vegetable oils, such as soybean and palm oil, making it of interest due to its distinct chemical composition and matrix, which differ from those of deodorizer distillates studied previously. The significance of the present investigation is related to the properties of the oil blend, requiring the establishment of new process conditions for this specific VODD. Experimental design was used to evaluate the WFMD process variables, with the aim of removing free fatty acids and enabling eight PN to be concentrated in the reprocessing stages.ResultsThe product obtained after three WFMD stages presented a fivefold increase in the total PN concentration, compared to the raw material. Notably, the procedure provided enrichment ratios of 7.2‐fold for total tocopherols (including α‐, β‐, λ‐ and δ‐tocopherols), 4.5‐fold for total phytosterols (including campesterol, stigmasterol and β‐sitosterol) and 1.2‐fold for squalene, together with a deacidification efficiency of 78.93%.ConclusionThe proposed process provided significant concentration gains for all eight PN evaluated, resulting in a value‐added product. These excellent results were achieved using only three WFMD stages, without any need for additional processing steps. The data obtained at the pilot scale provide valuable insights for predicting the scalability of the process and facilitating potential industrial implementation. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Association of dietary intake of polyphenols, lignans, and phytosterols with immune-stimulating microbiota and COVID-19 risk in a group of Polish men and women.

Devastating consequences of COVID-19 disease enhanced the role of promoting prevention-focused practices. Among targeted efforts, diet is regarded as one of the potential factors which can affect immune function and optimal nutrition is postulated as the method of augmentation of people's viral resistance. As epidemiological evidence is scarce, the present study aimed to explore the association between dietary intake of total polyphenols, lignans and plant sterols and the abundance of immunomodulatory gut microbiota such as Enterococcus spp. and Escherichia coli and the risk of developing COVID-19 disease. Demographic data, dietary habits, physical activity as well as the composition of body and gut microbiota were analyzed in a sample of 95 young healthy individuals. Dietary polyphenol, lignan and plant sterol intakes have been retrieved based on the amount of food consumed by the participants, the phytochemical content was assessed in laboratory analysis and using available databases. For all investigated polyphenols and phytosterols, except campesterol, every unit increase in the tertile of intake category was associated with a decrease in the odds of contracting COVID-19. The risk reduction ranged from several dozen percent to 70 %, depending on the individual plant-based chemical, and after controlling for basic covariates it was statistically significant for secoisolariciresinol (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.11-0.61), total phytosterols (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.22-0.95) and for stigmasterols (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.14-0.72). We found an inverse association between increased β-sitosterol intake and phytosterols in total and the occurrence of Escherichia coli in stool samples outside reference values, with 72% (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.08-0.86) and 66% (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.10-1.08) reduced odds of abnormal level of bacteria for the highest compared with the lowest tertile of phytochemical consumption. Additionally, there was a trend of more frequent presence of Enterococcus spp. at relevant level in people with a higher intake of lariciresinol. The beneficial effects of polyphenols and phytosterols should be emphasized and these plant-based compounds should be regarded in the context of their utility as antiviral agents preventing influenza-type infections.