Olive Oil Research Articles

Therapeutic potential of wild rare plant-derived herbal ointment: a promising intervention for managing chronic dermatological conditions

IntroductionChronic skin conditions have become a significant global healthcare issue, necessitating the development of novel therapeutic approaches. This study investigates the medicinal properties of ABBA Herbal Ointment, derived from the wild plant Cymbopogon schoenanthus ssp. proximus. Introduced in 2001, this ointment contains natural ingredients such as Aloe vera, jojoba oil, and calendula, extracted from desert medicinal plants. It has demonstrated swift and conclusive efficacy in treating chronic skin conditions. Clinically verified and patented in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Patent Number: GC 0001218), its therapeutic potential is supported by extensive research conducted by three French laboratories. MethodsThe traditional method is used to produce the ointment from the plant extract. To make the ointment, the extracted plant chlorophyll was homogenised with olive oil and natural beeswax. To further validate the therapeutic potential of the ointment, in vitro occlusive tests were performed to assess its efficacy on human skin, with results observed after 48 hours. In this study, 24 volunteers participated, of which two discontinued. ResultsThe topical application of the ointment shows no side effects, and further trials demonstrate its beneficial effects in managing chronic skin diseases. ConclusionABBA Herbal Ointment, derived from the rare wild plant C. schoenanthus ssp. proximus, shows significant potential as an effective treatment for chronic dermatological conditions. The study supports the ointment's efficacy and safety, aligning with the goal of developing novel therapeutic approaches for chronic skin diseases.

From tyrosine to hydroxytyrosol: a pathway involving biologically active compounds and their determination in wines by ultra performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry.

Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is a bioactive compound present in a limited number of foods such as wines, olives, and olive oils. During alcoholic fermentation, yeast converts aromatic amino acids into higher alcohols such as tyrosol, which can undergo hydroxylation into HT. The aim of this study was to validate an analytical method using ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS-MS) to quantify HT and its precursors (tyrosine, hydroxyphenylpyruvic acid, hydroxyphenylacetaldehyde, 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, and tyrosol) in wines. Their occurrence was evaluated in a total of 108 commercial Spanish wine samples. The validated method simultaneously determined both HT and its precursors, with adequatelimits of detection between 0.065 and 21.86 ng mL-1 and quantification limits between 0.199 and 66.27 ng mL-1 in a 5 min run. The concentration of HT in red wines was significantly higher (0.12-2.24 mg L-1) than in white wines (0.01-1.27 mg L-1). The higher the alcoholic degree, the higher was the content of HT. The bioactive 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid was identified in Spanish wines for the first time at 3.90-127.47 mg L-1, being present in all the samples. The highest HT concentrations were found in red wines and in wines with higher ethanol content. These data are useful for a further estimation of the intake of these bioactive compounds and to enlarge knowledge on chemical composition of wines. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Investigating the impact of nanoemulsion of curcumin-loaded olive oil on growth performance, feed utilization, immunological responses, and redox status of Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp with emphasis on economic efficiency of supplementation.

The trail aimed to explore the effect of dietary supplementation of curcumin loaded olive oil nanoemulsion (CUR-OLNE) on growth performance, feed utilization, blood biochemical, redox status, and immune response of Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp, considering the economic efficiency of supplementation. A total of 280 healthy shrimps (3.42 ± 0.02 g) were randomly distributed into five equal groups and were fed diets containing 0 (CUR-OLNE0), 5(CUR-OLNE5), 10(CUR-OLNE10), 15(CUR-OLNE15) and 20 (CUR-OLNE20) mg CUR-OLNE/kg diet, respectively for 16 weeks. Among CUR-OLNE treated groups, CUR-OLNE20 showed the highest growth performance and feed utilization traits, including final body weight, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, and protein efficiency ratio. Notably, the photomicrographs provided further compelling evidence regarding the potential effect of CUR-OLNE supplementation on muscle structure and integrity. Compared to the control, the levels of blood protein significantly induced in CUR-OLNE15 and CUR-OLNE20 treated groups (p < 0.05). All CUR-OLNE -supplemented groups possessed lower activities of liver enzymes as well as the levels of urea and creatinine compared to the control (p < 0.05). The addition of 20 mg CUR-OLNE/kg diet decreased the concentrations of cortisol, glucose and triglycerides. The dietary treatment significantly improved the secretion of digestive enzymes, including amylase, lipase, and protease. The lowest levels of Malondialdehyde and the highest levels of total antioxidant capacity, super oxide dismutase, catalase, lysozyme and immunoglobulin M were detected in both of CUR-OLNE15, and CUR-OLNE20 treated groups compared to the control (p < 0.05). There were considerable significant effects of dietary supplementation of CUR-OLNE on economic efficiency. In conclusion, the application of nanocarriers for the delivery of dietary immune stimulants such as CUR-OLNE to Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp is a promising strategy for improving shrimp nutrition. The addition of 20 mg CUR-OLNE/kg to the diets of can be recommended as an affective intervention to improve growth performance, feed utilization, and health status of shrimp. Implementing this intervention can maximize the economic efficiency of shrimp farming while promoting sustainable practices in the industry.

Green extraction, chemical profile and biological activity of waste products from the olive oil industry: From waste to wealth

Olive oil is the most used vegetable oil for human consumption and its production represents an important economic sector, especially in Mediterranean countries. Olive trees are grown in more than 40 countries around the world on over 10 million hectares. The milling industry generates large quantities of liquid and solid residues, the disposal of which requires sophisticated and rather expensive procedures, given the polluting characteristics of the processing products. Since a considerable measure of olive-derived biomass is generated each year, it could be used as a potential source of bioactive compounds. This work evaluates the possibility of recovering natural antioxidants from by-products of the olive oil mill, through the optimization of extraction processes with green approaches. In the present work, through HPLC-PDA analysis with a validated method, it was possible to characterize a chemical profile of the extracts obtained through an optimized (DoE) and green approach. The waste products of the olive oil companies represent the samples considered in this work, and are derived from the pomace and the washing water of 2-phases, 2.5-phases, and 3-phase extra virgin olive oil (EVO) production plants. The optimized extraction methodology, starting from the 2.5-phase olive pomace, proved to be satisfactory in terms of efficiency by evaluating the effect of parameters such as extraction time and process temperature. The application of this methodology to other types of pomace and agro-industrial by-products has highlighted excellent results in terms of extraction yield, demonstrating the validity of this procedure as also suitable for other solid residues coming from the olive oil mill. Regarding the treatment in vegetation water, the developed protocol allowed the chromatographic profile of the analytes extracted from this matrix to be evaluated, leading to satisfactory results in terms of quantitative yields. Samples of these extracts are also subjected to biological tests in order to evaluate their antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities.

Bioactive Compounds in the Oils of the Autochthonous Slovenian Olive Varieties 'Buga', 'Črnica' and 'Drobnica'.

The adaptation of autochthonous olive varieties to local soil and climatic conditions can lead to a unique chemical composition and characteristics of olive oils that may differ from the generally accepted quality standards set out in the International Olive Oil Council strategy documents and EU regulations. Therefore, the fatty acid composition, biophenol, tocopherol, sterol and triterpenic dialcohol content and composition of the autochthonous Slovenian olive varieties 'Buga', 'Črnica' and 'Drobnica' were studied for a three-year period with the aim of valorising the characteristics of the three olive varieties. Standardised and accredited analytical methods in accordance with SIST EN ISO/IEC 17025:2017 were applied. The results of the investigation showed that the highest average amount of oleic acid (75.75%) was found in the oils of the 'Črnica' variety, followed by the 'Drobnica' (72.06%) and the 'Buga' (68.73%). All three varieties are a good source of total biophenols ('Buga' 616 mg/kg, 'Drobnica' 569 mg/kg and 'Črnica' 427 mg/kg) and α-tocopherol ('Buga' 378 mg/kg, 'Drobnica' 279 mg/kg, and 'Črnica' 243 mg/kg). 'Buga' and 'Drobnica' are characterised by high amounts of total sterols, 2468 mg/kg and 2391 mg/kg, respectively, while 'Črnica' oils, in comparison, showed a lower average value of total sterols (1351 mg/kg). Due to their exceptional chemical composition, 'Buga', 'Črnica' and 'Drobnica' show great potential for the further cultivation and valorisation of traditional olive oil production in the region, thus contributing to the preservation of biodiversity and local traditions. The quality parameters of olive oil from the autochthonous Slovenian olive varieties 'Buga', 'Črnica' and 'Drobnica' also fulfil the limits for extra virgin olive oil according to the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/2104, despite local climatic influences. However, accelerated growth due to climatic changes affecting early harvest can lead to them falling outside these limits, which was observed in particular for the 'Buga' variety in terms of the linoleic acid content. This study emphasises the importance of timing the harvest to achieve optimum maturity and meet EU quality standards, taking into account the genetic makeup of the varieties and their response to the current climatic conditions.

Usefulness of the 1H NMR Multisuppression Approach for the Global Characterization of Monovarietal Extra-Virgin Olive Oils.

Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) is one of the most appreciated vegetable oils worldwide, but its high price makes it prone to suffer adulteration with lower quality oils. Therefore, it is important to have methodologies able to study EVOO composition as a whole in a simple and fast way, in order to guarantee its quality and safety. For this purpose, in this study, commercial samples of five Spanish olive cultivars (Arbequina, Arroniz, Cornicabra, Hojiblanca, Picual) were studied by Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy, using standard and multisuppression pulses. The aim was to explore the possibility of 1H NMR use to characterize in a single run and in a global way the composition of these monocultivar oils, regarding not only their main components (fatty acids supported on triglycerides) but also minor ones (squalene, sterols, diterpenic wax esters of phytol and geranylgeraniol, phenolic and secoiridoid derivatives, like tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, oleacein, oleocanthal, and lignans, among others, and aldehydes). The use of univariate and multivariate statistical analyses confirmed the presence of compositional features that were specific to some olive varieties. The Arbequina and Arroniz oils showed the most characteristic features that allowed for clearly differentiating them from the others. In contrast, the discrimination between the Cornicabra, Hojiblanca and Picual oils was not so easily achieved.

Effect of Mediterranean diet or mindfulness-based stress reduction during pregnancy on placental volume and perfusion: A subanalysis of the IMPACT BCN randomized clinical trial.

The IMPACT BCN trial-a parallel-group randomized clinical trial where 1221 pregnant women at high risk for small-for-gestational age (SGA) newborns were randomly allocated at 19- to 23-week gestation into three groups: Mediterranean diet, Mindfulness-based Stress reduction or non-intervention-has demonstrated a positive effect of Mediterranean diet and Stress reduction in the prevention of SGA. However, the mechanism of action of these interventions remains still unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of Mediterranean diet and Stress reduction on placental volume and perfusion. Participants in the Mediterranean diet group received monthly individual and group educational sessions, and free provision of extra-virgin olive oil and walnuts. Women in the Stress reduction group underwent an 8-week Stress reduction program adapted for pregnancy, consisting of weekly 2.5-h and one full-day sessions. Non-intervention group was based on usual care. Placental volume and perfusion were assessed in a subgroup of randomly selected women (n = 165) using magnetic resonance (MR) at 36-week gestation. Small placental volume was defined as MR estimated volume <10th centile. Perfusion was assessed by intravoxel incoherent motion. While mean MR placental volume was similar among the study groups, both interventions were associated with a lower prevalence of small placental volume (3.9% Mediterranean diet and 5% stress reduction vs. 17% non-intervention; p = 0.03 and p = 0.04, respectively). Logistic regression showed that small placental volume was significantly associated with higher risk of SGA in both study groups (OR 7.48 [1.99-28.09] in Mediterranean diet and 20.44 [5.13-81.4] in Stress reduction). Mediation analysis showed that the effect of Mediterranean diet on SGA can be decomposed by a direct effect and an indirect effect (56.6%) mediated by a small placental volume. Similarly, the effect of Stress reduction on SGA is partially mediated (45.3%) by a small placental volume. Results on placental intravoxel incoherent motion perfusion fraction and diffusion coefficient were similar among the study groups. Structured interventions during pregnancy based on Mediterranean diet or Stress reduction are associated with a lower proportion of small placentas, which is consistent with the previously observed beneficial effects of these interventions on fetal growth.

Protective Effects of Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus) on Bisphenol A- Induced Testicular Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Bisphenol A (BPA) have been reported to induced reprotoxicity in rats. This study was conducted to find out the ameliorative properties of aqueous extract of Cyperus esculentus (tigernut) on BPA induced testicular toxicity in Wistar rats. Methods: Twenty male rats were divided randomly into 4 groups (n=5): group A: (Control); group B: Bisphenol A (BPA) (25 mg/kg b.w/day); group C: tigernut (200 mg/kg b.w); group D: (25 mg/kg of BPA+ 200 mg/kg of tigernut extract. 25 mg/kg of BPA was dissolved in 0.2 ml of olive oil as vehicle and administration was given by oral gavage for 4 weeks. The body weights were measured. Blood were collected for the testosterone (T) and luteinizing hormone (LH) assays; the epididymis were processed for sperm count, sperm motility, sperm viability and sperm abnormality test; while the testes were harvested for histology. Results: There was a significantly (p &lt; 0.05) decreased in body weight; reduced (sperm count, motility, viability, serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone) in BPA compared with control group. These parameters however increased significantly (p &lt; 0.05) in tigernut (200mg) and BPA + tigernut (200mg) compared with BPA. Also, histological examination showed widened interstitial spaces, some distorted seminiferous tubules, degeneration of basement membrane, scanty Leydig cells, fewer spermatozoa and vacuolation While BPA + tigernut (group D); showed improved testicular architecture (preserved interstitial spaces and interstitial cells. restoration of the loss of the basement membrane and closely packed seminiferous tubules with well-arranged germinal epithelium. Supplementation with tigernuts following BPA administration produces a reversal of the deleterious effect of BPA on the testis.

Characteristics of the vegetable oil debate in social-media and its implications for sustainability

The global production and consumption of vegetable oils have sparked wide-ranging and often emotive discussions on sustainable development, especially on social media. Here we analyze over 20 million tweets related to vegetable oils to explore the key factors shaping public opinion. Coconut, olive, and palm oils dominate social media discourse not proportionally to their global production. Olive and palm oil discussions remarkably correlate with Twitter’s (now X) growth, while coconut shows more bursts of activity. Discussions around coconut and olive oils primarily focus on health, beauty, and food, while palm oil draws attention to pressing environmental concerns. Virality is related to environmental issues and negative connotations. In the context of the Sustainable Development Goals, this study highlights the multifaceted nature of the vegetable oil debate and its disconnection from scientific discussions. Our research sheds light on the power of social media in shaping public perception, providing insights into sustainable development strategies.

Rare Earth Elements Distribution and Bacteriome to Assess and Characterize the Soil Landscapes of Old Olive Orchards

The presence of the olive tree in Tuscany, Italy, in its forms that have survived to the present day as an essential component of the landscape dates back many centuries. Global change is now threatening it. Therefore, it is important to find markers to enhance the olive tree environment in terms of its resilience. The aim of the research was to investigate the composition of soil bacteriomes in contrasting geochemical environments using a geochemistry approach based on the behavior of the REEs, inherited from parent rock material. Bacteriome assemblages and REE content were analyzed in 48 topsoils developed in six geochemical Tuscan environments. Combined geochemical, geoinformatic, and bioinformatic techniques highlighted the existence of four bacteriome assemblages depending on Light-REEs. Further results showed that the soil bioavailable fraction of REEs was related to parent rock materials, pH, and bacteriome composition. The most abundant bacteria were Microlunatus in graded fluvio-lacustrine soils, Gaiella in graded arenaceous soils, Bradyrizhobium in pyroclastic soils, and Rubrobacter in soils on gentle slopes of calcareous and carbonatic lithologies. This research represents a starting point to define new indicators able to assess the resilience of the olive trees in the Mediterranean landscape and characterize the territory of extra virgin olive oils.

In-house validation of a visible and near infrared spectroscopy non-targeted method to support panel test of virgin olive oils

In this study, an in-house validation of Visible and Near Infrared Spectroscopy was performed to distinguish between extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and virgin olive oil (VOO). A total of 161 samples of olive oil of three different categories (EVOO, VOO and lampante (LOO)) were analysed by transflectance using a monochromator instrument. One-class models were initially developed using Partial Least Squares (PLS) Density Modelling to characterize EVOO and VOO category. Once the LOO samples were discriminated, linear and non-linear discriminant models were built to classify EVOO and VOO. Different data pre-treatments and variable selection algorithms were evaluated to establish the best models in terms of Correct Classification Rate (CCR). The best model, obtained after variable selection using PLS Discriminant Analysis, yielded CCR values of 82.35 % for EVOO and 66.67 % for VOO in external validation. These results confirmed that VIS + NIRS technology may be used to provide rapid, non-destructive preliminary screening of olive oil samples for categorization; suspect samples may then be analysed by official analytical methods.

Effect of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Stimulation on Splenomegaly and Immunoglobulin E Levels in 2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene-Induced Atopic Dermatitis Mouse Model

Effects of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) on immunological factors in a 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced atopic dermatitis (AD) model were investigated. Hairless mice were randomly assigned to control, acetone and olive oil solution-treated (AOO), PEMF 15 Hz, PEMF 75 Hz, and sham groups (n = 5 each). AOO solution was used to dissolve DNCB. Both PEMF and sham groups were exposed to similar DNCB doses, causing similar AD symptoms. After AD induction for five weeks, only the PEMF groups were exposed to PEMF stimulations (15 Hz, 75 Hz, and 15 mT) inside the solenoid coil, for two weeks. In both groups, splenomegaly was observed, as AD was induced by hyperimmune reactions caused by DNCB sensitization. However, splenomegaly did not occur in the PEMF-exposed groups, and spleen weight decreased similarly to that of the control. Hence, the total splenocytes in the PEMF group were similar to those in the control group, whereas the sham group showed three times the number of splenocytes compared with the PEMF group. The serum immunoglobulin E levels did not significantly change in the PEMF group; however, they increased more than fourfold in the sham group. These results demonstrate that PEMF stimulation ameliorated the abnormal symptoms caused by hyperimmune reactions.

Metrological aspects of a gas-phase DFT/B3LYP quantum-chemical approach to prioritize radical scavenging activity among a group of olive oil phenols

Metrological aspects of a gas-phase DFT/B3LYP quantum-chemical approach to prioritize radical scavenging activity among a group of olive oil phenols

Extraction of Oil from Different Cultivars of Olive Fruits and Their Profiling by Gas Chromatography

Olive varieties differ from each other in terms of their morphological attributes, such as leaf size and shape, fruit size, color, texture and shape. These differences arise as a result of combination of different genotypic composition as the variable environmental conditions. The genotypic and phenotypic differences arising in plants are further translated to the level of the fruits, as a consequence of which, olive fruits from different cultivars yield different kinds of olive oils. The current study shows variable oil parameters of olive oil harvested from four different cultivars of oils, namely, [Arbequina (A), Barnea (B), Cortina (C), Koronoiki (K)] which were collected from two different sites, Napasar (N) and Lunkaransar (L), Bikaner (Rajasthan) and furthermore evaluate the variation in oil parameters (oil content as well as fatty acids present in oils) of different olive cultivars. The results of the study show that oil from all the varieties differed from each other in terms of colour as well as fatty acid profile. All these variations were attributed to the difference in genotype of different olive cultivars as well as variable metrological conditions coupled with different physico-chemical attributes of water and soil in both Napsar and Lunkaransar.

Kinetic Model for the Hydrolysis of Olive Oil by Lipase in Absence of Emulsifier

Kinetic Model for the Hydrolysis of Olive Oil by Lipase in Absence of Emulsifier

Characterization of Olive Oil Phenolic Extracts and Their Effects on the Aggregation of the Alzheimer's Amyloid-β Peptide and Tau.

The dietary consumption of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is believed to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) symptoms. Its protective mechanisms are unclear, but specific EVOO phenolic compounds can individually impede the aggregation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides and the microtubule-associated protein tau, two important pathological manifestations of AD. It is unknown, however, whether the numerous and variable phenolic compounds that are consumed in dietary EVOO can collectively alter tau and Aβ aggregation as effectively as the individual compounds. The activity of these complex mixtures against Aβ and tau may be moderated by competition between active and nonactive phenolic components and by extensive derivatizations and isomerization. Here, phenolic mixtures extracted from two different EVOO sources are characterized and tested for how they modulate the aggregation of Aβ40 peptide and tau peptides in vitro. The chromatographic and NMR analysis of Greek and Saudi Arabian EVOO phenolic extracts reveals that they have different concentration profiles, and over 30 compounds are identified. Thioflavin T fluorescence and circular dichroism measurements show that relatively low concentrations (<20 μg/mL) of the Greek and Saudi extracts reduce the rate of Aβ40 aggregation and fibril mass, despite the extracts having different phenolic profiles. By contrast, the Greek extract reduces the rate of tau aggregation only at very high phenolic concentrations (>100 μg/mL). Most compounds in the extracts bind to preformed Aβ40 fibrils and release soluble Aβ oligomers that are mildly toxic to SH-SY5Y cells. Much higher (500 μg/mL) extract concentrations are required to remodel tau filaments into oligomers, and a minimal binding of phenolic compounds to the preformed filaments is observed. It is concluded that EVOO extracts having different phenol profiles are similarly capable of modulating Aβ40 aggregation and fibril morphology in vitro at relatively low concentrations but are less efficient at modulating tau aggregation. Over 2 M tonnes of EVOO are consumed globally each year as part of the Mediterranean diet, and the results here provide motivation for further clinical interrogation of the antiaggregation properties of EVOO as a potential protective mechanism against AD.

Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant Activities of Polyphenolic Extract of Pyrus communis Leaf in Carbon tetrachloride–Treated Albino Wistar Rats

Polyphenols are active plant compounds that are reportedly capable of eliminating or limiting the deleterious side effects of free radicals and consequently restoring the functional integrity of important organs such as the liver. This study investigated the liver-protecting and antioxidant activities of PEP.c (Polyphenol leaf extract of Pyrus communis) against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Liver damage was induced via intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of 1.5 mL/kg body weight (b.w.) of 50% carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in olive oil on the 7th day of extract/drug administration. In-duction of CCl4 significantly (P &lt; 0.05) increased the activities of serum gam-ma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) as well as a significant decrease (P &lt; 0.05) in the serum level of total protein and the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione in the liver tissue with a concomitant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Oral administration of PEP.c (50, 100, and 250 mg/kg b.w.) for 7 days, significantly (P &lt; 0.05) reduced the elevated serum levels of serum GGT, AST, ALT, ALP and increased the level of total protein as compared to CCl4-induced hepatotoxic-untreated group. However, administration of PEP.c significantly (P &lt; 0.05) decreased concentration of malondialdehyde and increased the activity of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as enhanced glutathione (GSH) level in the liver tissue. Results were compared to N-acetylcysteine, a known liver-protecting agent. Results from histopathological evaluation also supported the hepatoprotective-city of PEP.c in the CCl4-induced albino Wistar rats. The results of this study suggested that PEP.c can be used as a safe and alternative drug for the prevention and management of liver injury.

Micro Knowledge as a Driver for Systemic Emergencies Management: The Case of Xylella in Italy

AbstractDuring emergency production systems, supply chain stakeholders’ interactions, media activities, government actions, community behaviors are stressed bringing, all, to a high-risk perception about safety. For agri-food products, it became in a variation of consumers’ purchasing behaviors, guided by uncertainty and influenced by trust. The extant knowledge about consumers’ willingness to buy for agri-food products in emergency condition does not provide evidences during a phytosanitary warning. The proposed study, considering the Xylella fastidiosa phytosanitary emergency as case study, aims to fulfill this gap analyzing the possible variations of consumers’ perception and willingness to buy of Apulian olive oil in the era of Xylella emergence by adopting a multi-perspective and systemic approach. For achieving this scope, the study follows a Process-Person-Context-Time perspective for conceiving a systemic psychological model based on the Bronfenbrenner ecological model. Seven hypotheses were tested through Structural Equation Modeling thanks to a survey in a representative sample of 779 Italian consumers. Results showed that Italian consumer’s willingness to buy the post-Xylella olive oil can fluctuate due to the hypothesized system vulnerability: family, friends, and colleague such as trust in farmers and the credibility of Italian food market are impactful; trust in processors, transporters, and government and media is not. The findings, from theoretical and sectorial perspectives, provide new knowledge on the topic, empirical evidences, and a multi-systemic model able to analyze consumers’ behaviors, understand and stimulate the search for new (or more appropriate) marketing and communication strategies to face Xylella serious economic shortages, and to act a requalification of territory at all.

Chitosan-Based Oleogels: Emulsion Drying Kinetics and Physical, Rheological, and Textural Characteristics of Olive Oil Oleogels.

Oleogels are of high interest as promising substitutes for trans fats in foods. An emulsion-templated method was used to trap olive oil in the chitosan crosslinked with vanillin matrix. Oil in water emulsions (50:50 w/w) with different chitosan content (0.7 and 0.8% w/w) with a constant vanillin/chitosan ratio (1.3) were air-dried at different temperatures (50, 60, 70, and 80 °C) and freeze-dried (-26 °C and 0.1 mbar) to produce oleogels. Only falling rate periods were determined during air-drying kinetics and were successfully modeled with empirical and diffusional models. At a drying temperature of 70 °C, the drying kinetics were the fastest. The viscoelasticity of oleogels showed that the elastic modulus significantly increased after drying at 60 and 70 °C, and those dried at 50 °C and freeze-dried were weaker. All oleogels showed high oil binding capacity (>91%), but the highest values (>97%) were obtained in oleogels with a threshold elastic modulus (50,000 Pa). The oleogels' color depended on the drying temperature and chitosan content (independent of the drying method). Significant differences were observed between air-dried and freeze-dried oleogels with respect to oxidative stability. Oxidation increased with the air-drying time regardless of chitosan content. The found results indicated that drying conditions must be carefully selected to produce oleogels with specific features.

Morpho-Functional Analyses Demonstrate That Tyrosol Rescues Dexamethasone-Induced Muscle Atrophy.

Prolonged exposure to high dosages of dexamethasone, which is a synthetic glucocorticoid and a well-known anti-inflammatory drug, may lead to an increase in reactive oxygen species production, contributing to muscle wasting. The prevention of muscle atrophy by ingestion of functional foods is an attractive issue. In the last decade, natural antioxidant compounds have been increasingly investigated as promising molecules able to counteract oxidative-stress-induced muscle atrophy. Recently, we have demonstrated the antioxidant properties of two main olive oil polyphenols also known for their anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities in different cell models. Here, the preventive effect of tyrosol on dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy has been investigated by means of morpho-functional approaches in C2C12 myotubes. Dexamethasone-treated cells showed a reduced fiber size when compared to control ones. While long and confluent myotubes could be observed in control samples, those exposed to dexamethasone appeared as immature syncytia. Dysfunctional mitochondria and the accumulation of autophagic vacuoles contributed to myotube degeneration and death. Tyrosol administration before glucocorticoid treatment prevented muscle wasting and rescued mitochondrial and lysosomal functionality. These findings demonstrate that tyrosol attenuates dexamethasone-induced myotube damage, and encourage the use of this natural molecule in preclinical and clinical studies and in synergy with other functional foods or physical activity with the aim to prevent muscle atrophy.