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The gummy industry is showing a growing interest in adding novel ingredients to conventional formulations since consumers are looking for healthier and more nutritious products. Thus, this work aimed to develop sucrose‐free gummy candies without artificial food dyes and incorporated with Spirulina biomass and freeze‐dried açai pulp (FDAP) at concentrations of 1%, 3%, and 5%. Gummy candy enriched with 5% Spirulina (GSP5) showed the nutritional (increase of 36.7% and 414.3% in protein and mineral contents, respectively) and functional increments (0.081 mg GAE g−1 of phenolic compounds and 11.4% DPPH scavenging activity) when compared to control (GC; 0% Spirulina). Gummy candy added with 3% FDAP (GAC3) showed 1.7% lipids, 0.4% minerals, 0.190 mg GAE g−1 of phenolic compounds, and 27.0% DPPH scavenging activity. The acceptability index was satisfactory for both formulations GSP5 (78.7%) and GAC3 (83.8%). Therefore, Spirulina biomass and FDAP could be used as innovative ingredients in sucrose‐free gummies manufacturing. Novelty impact statement: The addition of Spirulina biomass and freeze‐dried açai pulp in gummy candies improved their nutritional and functional value. Spirulina biomass addition increased gummy candies protein and mineral content, whereas gummy candies enriched with freeze‐dried açai pulp exhibited antioxidant capacity up to 36% and the highest phenolic content. Besides, the sensory evaluation of gummy candies indicated a high acceptability index of around 80%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermented drinks of water kefir grains are a healthy option. The study aimed to evaluate the physical, chemical, sugar, active acid, and ethanol profiles, in the fermentation stages 0, 24, and 48 h, to obtain kefir fermented beverages from industrial pineapple and Spirulina residues. sp. biomass processing, after physicochemical characterization of these ingredients. Fermented drinks with the addition of pineapple extract and Spirulina sp. LEB 18 or with the addition of pineapple extract were characterized as acidic drinks. The study presented an average of 6.54°Brix and a higher content of sucrose and fructose when compared to the control drink. Only the fermented drink with Spirulina sp. LEB 18 remained stable in relation to the physicochemical parameters in storage at 4°C for 30 days. Water‐based kefir beverages with the addition of pineapple residue extract and Spirulina sp. LEB 18 after future sensory analysis can be a healthy and viable option for consumption. Novelty impact statement: The development of beverages with live microorganisms that seek the reuse of food peels is important since, in addition to providing a new product with bioactive potential, it also avoids waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemicals are a large group of natural compounds with medicinal properties for a broad range of diseases. Due to their rapid metabolism in the body, encapsulation with biocompatible and biodegradable materials to trap them and increasing their bioavailability is a critical approach. In this work, Spirulina platensis was used as a carrier to encapsulate black cumin extract and to enhance its bioavailability, stability and therapeutic properties. Physicochemical characterizations of the composite were performed using FTIR, TGA, UV–visible spectroscopy. Antioxidant activity, antibacterial, and cytotoxicity assessment on the composite were done as bioactivity assays. FTIR, spectroscopy, and TGA results confirmed the encapsulation of extract in microalga. A significant encapsulation efficiency (81.94%) was obtained. The thermal stability of extract in the composite increased by 6.02% compared to the free extract. The composite showed a strong antioxidant effect (~5 times the extract), and a significant lethal impact on MCF‐7 cancer cells (80%) with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 6.56 and 13.13 mg/ml against E. coli and S. aureus, respectively. The results show that the composite successfully provides a novel system with effective integration of dietary and medicinal impacts and introduces a new nutrient with significant therapeutic specifications for cancer treatment. Novelty impact statement: The work describes a novel nanocomposite consist of Spirulina platensis microalga and Black cumin as new slow release system. It integrates medicinal and nutritional effects to gather and introduces a controlled release complementary for cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application potential of spirulina meal in aquaculture feeds has been well summarized in several descriptive reviews. Nevertheless, they converged on compiling results from all possible relevant studies. Little available quantitative analysis regarding the pertinent topics has been reported. This quantitative meta-analysis was performed to investigate the influences of dietary spirulina meal (SPM) addition on responsive variables in aquaculture animals, including final body weight (FBW), specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER), condition factor (CF), and hepatosomatic index (HSI). The pooled standardized mean difference (Hedges' g) and 95% confidence limit were computed to quantify the primary outcomes based on random-effects model. The sensitivity and subgroup analyses were carried out to evaluate the validity of the pooled effect size. The meta-regression analysis was conducted to investigate the optimal inclusion of SPM as a feed supplement and the upper threshold of SPM usage for substituting fishmeal in aquaculture animals. The results indicated that on the whole, dietary SPM addition significantly improved FBW, SGR, and PER; statistically decreased FCR of animals; had no significant influence on CF and HSI. The growth-enhancing effect of SPM inclusion in the form of feed additive was significant; however, the effect was indistinctive in the form of feedstuff. Furthermore, the meta-regression analysis displayed that the optimal levels of SPM as a feed supplement in fish and shrimp diets were 1.46%-2.26% and 1.67%, respectively. Additionally, up to 22.03%-24.53% and 14.95%-24.85% of SPM as fishmeal substitute did not have a negative effect on growth and feed utilization in fish and shrimp, respectively. Therefore, SPM is a promising fishmeal substitute and a growth-promoting feed additive for sustainable aquaculture of fish and shrimp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inadequate wastewater management can cause negative impacts on the ecosystem, becoming an obstacle to aquaculture growth. New technologies have been developed to reduce the nutrient load in aquaculture wastewater involving microalgae as phytoremediation agents. In addition to reducing the nutrient load of water bodies, the microalgae‐based phytoremediation can also generate high‐added value biomass. Arthrospira (Spirulina) is a little‐explored genus as a phytoremediation agent for aquaculture wastewater, representing about 30% of the biomass produced in the world that is known for its high concentration of proteins, carotenoids and phycocyanin. Using the aquaculture wastewater is an important strategy to reduce the production costs, obtain high‐added value biomolecules and mitigate the effects of wastewater on the aquatic ecosystem. However, there are few reports of Arthrospira sp. as a remediation agent for aquaculture wastewater that assesses the biochemical composition. This manuscript aimed to review the cellular mechanisms of phytoremediation and the biochemical composition of Arthrospira currently described when grown in aquaculture wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was done to investigate the application of halophilic bacteria in a biofloc production system to grow Artemia franciscana in the laboratory, in which part of a standard microalgae feeding regime was replaced by bioflocs. Bioflocs were produced according to a standard procedure, using rice bran and vinasse as carbon sources, a commercial probiotic product, and halophilic Bacillus sp., originating from Urmia Lake, Iran, as halophilic bacteria. Three successive laboratory culture tests were conducted at salinities 60 (experiments 1 and 3) and 120 g L−1 (experiment 2) for 21, 14 and 14 days, respectively. Five feeding regimes were examined; the control treatment feeding a standard regime of only the microalga Dunaliella tertiolecta, and four biofloc treatments: 90% and 75% replacement of microalgae by bioflocs, both without and with halophilic addition. Depending on the experiment, Artemia performance was assessed as growth, reproductive performance, fatty acid and proximate composition and/or digestive enzyme activity. Applying halophilic bacteria in biofloc systems had no significant effect on the measured parameters. We further conclude that Artemia franciscana can be cultured successfully using bioflocs as the main food source, with limited microalgae supplementation (10%–25%) with no significant effect on survival, length, proximate composition and levels of most fatty acids in Artemia biomass. A number of fecundity parameters were negatively affected by 75% substitution of microalgae by bioflocs. This research opens interesting perspectives to produce Artemia at a bigger scale, e.g., in tanks or pond conditions, where production of sufficient quantities of suitable microalgae species might be problematic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirulina is an interesting candidate for fish nutrition. This study aims to investigate the effect of the complete replacement of fishmeal with spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) in the diets of brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and brown trout (Salmo trutta fario), in relation to growth and product quality. Two isoenergetic and isonitrogenous experimental diets containing either fishmeal or spirulina as a main source of protein were used for a 10‐week feeding trial. Differences in the spirulina acceptance and conversion between species were observed. The experimental diets were well accepted except for brown trout. A species–diet interaction was observed, which led to a reduction in final body weight due to the spirulina supplementation for brook and rainbow trout (p < 0.05). Parallel, the feed conversion ratio increased to the same extent in the spirulina‐fed fish (p < 0.05), fostering the assumption, that both species did not differ in converting the spirulina diet. Spirulina led to a significant increase (p < 0.05) in yellow and red coloration in both raw and cooked fillets. The diet had a significant effect on the fatty acid profile, resulting in an increase in SFA and MUFA, while PUFA levels decreased significantly in spirulina‐fed fish (p < 0.05). Overall, total replacement of fishmeal with Spirulina goes along with a reduced production performance and effects on major product quality traits such as fillet colour and fatty acid pattern. In particular, consumer acceptance of the yellow fillet colour should be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objective. Researchers are considering combining exercise and supplementation as a new strategy for weight loss and obesity prevention. This study is aimed at evaluating the effect of eight weeks of circuit resistance training and spirulina supplementation on plasma levels of adipolin, apelin, ghrelin, and glucose in overweight and obese men. Methods. The current investigation was conducted in a single-blind and quasiexperimental fashion. Sixty overweight and obese men (BMI > 25) ranging in age from 30 to 55 years were purposefully selected and randomly assigned to one of four groups: training plus spirulina (T+S), training plus placebo (T+P), spirulina (S), or placebo (P). For eight weeks, the (S) and (P) groups consumed two 500 mg spirulina and placebo capsules daily, respectively. Resistance training was performed three sessions a week over eight weeks, consisting of 12 movements with 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-minute rest intervals and 40-90 percent maximal repetition. Adipolin, apelin, and ghrelin indices were measured before and after exercise using special kits. Results. All variables changed significantly between groups except for apelin. Within-group comparisons revealed a substantial increase in adipolin levels in the (T+S) and (T+P) groups (P < 0.05). Apelin levels were decreased in the (T+S) and (T+P) groups. Additionally, FBS levels reduced significantly in (T+S) (P = 0.01). Conclusion. It seems that eight weeks of circuit resistance training and spirulina supplementation can lead to reduced weight and apelin and FBS levels as well as increased concentrations of adipolin and ghrelin contents in overweight and obese men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phycocyanobilin (PCB) is a linear open-chain tetrapyrrole chromophore that captures and senses light and a variety of biological activities, such as anti-oxidation, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory. In this paper, the biological activities of PCB are reviewed, and the related mechanism of PCB and its latest application in disease treatment are introduced. PCB can resist oxidation by scavenging free radicals, inhibiting the activity of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase, and delaying the activity of antioxidant enzymes. In addition, PCB can also be used as an excellent anti-inflammatory agent to reduce the proinflammatory factors IL-6 and IFN-γ and to up-regulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 by inhibiting the inflammatory signal pathways NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Due to the above biological activities of phycocyanobilin PCB, it is expected to become a new effective drug for treating various diseases, such as COVID-19 complications, atherosclerosis, multiple sclerosis (MS), and ischaemic stroke (IS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigments obtained from microalgae, which can be used as food and food additives, thanks to their rich nutritional content, are used as colorants in many foods. In this study, the sensorial and physicochemical properties of yoghurt colored with phycocyanin from Spirulina platensis were investigated. Spirulina in three different concentrations (0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% and a control without Spirulina) was added to the milk used for yoghurt, and phycocyanin pigment has been transferred to the milk. Then, the sensorial properties (appearance, color, flavor and overall acceptability), general composition (moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrate and ash content) and color values (L*, a*, b*, ΔE*, Chroma, h°) of yoghurt produced were measured. The highest sensory score of preference was obtained by 0.5% Spirulina added colored yoghurt. Protein content of colored yoghurt increased in proportionally with added Spirulina powder and was measured as 29.25 g/100 g DM in 0.5% Spirulina added yoghurt. Increase in Spirulina content, it caused to decrease in L*, a* and b* values and to increase in ΔE value. L*, a*, b*, ΔE*, Chroma and h° values of yoghurt colored with 0.5% Spirulina were measured as 76.86, −5.29, −3.23, 13.45, 4.64, and 0.55, respectively. Overall, it can be concluded that Spirulina can be used to enrich yoghurt as a natural functional ingredient due to its high nutritional and pigment content. Novelty impact statement: It can be concluded that Spirulina which is one of the most produced industrially microalgae can be used to enrich yoghurt as a natural functional ingredient due to its high nutritional and pigment content. The highest sensory score of preference was obtained by 0.5% Spirulina added greenish colored yoghurt in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was conducted to reveal the effects of dietary Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) meal on the growth performance, immune responses and resistance against Vibrio anguillarum in European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax). In the study, the fish (5.74 ± 0.02 g) were fed with control (C) and three different levels (1%, 2.5% and 5%) of Spirulina meal‐containing diets (SP1, SP2.5 and SP5) for 60 days. The adaptive and innate immune responses of fish were determined every 30th day of the study. The results showed that respiratory burst activity (RBA) was significantly elevated on the SP2.5 and SP5 groups on the 30th day of the study. Lysozyme activity (LYS) was increased on the SP1 group on the 30th day and the SP5 group on the 60th day (p < 0.05). Myeloperoxidase activity (MPO) was raised on the 60th day of the SP2.5 and SP5 groups compared with the C (p < 0.05). IL‐1β gene expression increased in the kidney and intestine of fish on the 30th day and in the spleen on the 60th day. IL‐10 gene expression in the intestine of fish fed the Spirulina‐containing diet was elevated at each sampling time relative to the C group (p < 0.05). Elevated IL‐6 activity was determined in the kidney and the intestine on all Spirulina‐fed groups compared with control at both sampling times. Similar to IL‐6, IL‐8 gene expressions were elevated in all Spirulina‐fed groups (p < 0.05). TNF‐α was up‐regulated in the kidney and intestine of all Spirulina‐fed groups compared with the C group on the 30th day of the study (p < 0.05). TGF‐β gene expression was increased in the kidney and intestine of all Spirulina groups compared with the C group on all sampling times. COX‐2 gene expression in the kidneys and intestines of fish fed with Spirulina diets was significantly elevated compared with the C diet at days 60th and 30th respectively. Hepcidin gene expression of all groups was elevated in all tissue samples on the 30th day of the study. The survival rate of fish infected with V. anguillarum was higher in all Spirulina‐fed groups than in the C group. The feed conversion rate and protein efficiency ratio of fish fed with a 1% Spirulina diet was found to be better than those fed with other diets. These results show that up to the 5% inclusion of Spirulina meal in European seabass diets promotes some growth parameters and supports immunity in fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this experiment was to investigate the role of melatonin and spirulina on multiorgan damage induced by ischemia/reperfusion injury (IR) in a rat model. A total of 32 male rats weighing 200–220 g were allocated into 4 groups (n = 8/group) (Sham, Control‐IR [CIR], Melatonin‐IR [MIR], and Spirulina‐IR [SIR]). Sham group underwent midline laparotomy and dissection of the aorta without injury. In other groups, an IR model was established by clamping (ischemia) and releasing (reperfusion) the abdominal aorta at the supraceliac level for 20 min. All rats were given 3 ml/kg of distilled water by gavage for 14 days before and 7 days after the experiment. The treatment groups received either melatonin (50 mg/kg) or spirulina (50 mg/kg) by the same route. On the 21st day of the experiment, the rats were sacrificed. We found that melatonin and spirulina ameliorated the effects of IR at different levels of significance (ranging from p =.01 to p <.001), increasing total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and superoxide dismutase levels, and decreasing total oxidant status, oxidative stress index (OSI), myeloperoxidase, tumor necrosis factor‐alfa and malondialdehyde levels. When compared MIR and SIR groups, only TAC and OSI levels did differ in favor of melatonin between the groups (p <.05). Histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations showed that melatonin and spirulina similarly reduced IR‐related tissue damage and apoptosis. We concluded that melatonin and spirulina may have a protective role against oxidative tissue damage and apoptosis in the abdominal aortic IR animal model. Practical applications: Coarctation of aorta (CoA) and interrupted aortic arch (IAA) are serious cardiac defects with high morbidity and mortality if not diagnosed and treated early in life. Restoration of blood flow in CoA or IAA through prostaglandin E1 infusion, angioplasty or surgery can cause ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury. This reperfusion period may be complicated IR injury at remote organs. It may be beneficial to increase antioxidant capacity in preventing stress‐induced tissue damage. Melatonin and spirulina are agents with strong antioxidant properties. In this animal research, protective role of these products on multiorgan damage induced by IR was investigated for the first time. We found that both melatonin and spirulina ameliorate the effects of IR to varying degrees. This study provides evidence that melatonin and spirulina may have preventive effects on oxidative tissue damage and apoptosis in the abdominal aortic IR animal model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The study was conducted to determine whether dietary supplementation of Spirulina platensis (S. platensis), a natural carotenoid source, could enhance body (skin) colouration of shubunkin gold fish, Carrasius auratus (Linn.) even in high‐alkalinity rearing water. This was done with the objective of utilizing vast inland saline water for the culture of high‐value low‐volume ornamental fishes. The 40% S. platensis diet caused highest total carotenoid content (TCC), and maximum growth. The lower S. platensis levels (10% and 20%) also resulted in higher TCC than the reference diet, and the diet without S. platensis. The level of rearing water total alkalinity (RWTA) at which S. platensis could be effectively used for body colour enhancement was 300 mgl−1 as it resulted in maximum TCC (38.25 ± 0.33 µg/g wet body weight). At higher RWTA (450 mgl−1 and 600 mgl−1), the TCC considerably reduced and was minimum (32.66 + 0.15 µg/g wet body weight) at 600 mgl−1. At lower RWTA (150 mgl−1), TCC was 36.03 ± 0.2 µg/g wet body weight. Better growth of the fish was also obtained at 300 mgl−1 of RWTA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nrf1/Tfam/MGMT and ATP5A1 might be a pivotal network in cardiovascular disease‐inducing obesity. Therefore, we evaluated eight weeks of exercise, caloric restriction, and spirulina algae consumption on the heart in obese rats. In this study, obese rats were compared with a healthy group. First, we induced obese rats with a 60%‐high‐fat diet. Then, after eight weeks, obese rats were randomly divided into eight groups: obese rats without treatment (HFD), obese rats treated with spirulina algae (HFD‐SA), obese rats conducted exercise (HFD‐EX), obese rats treated with spirulina algae and exercise (HFD‐SA+EX), obese rats treated with caloric restriction (HFD‐CR), obese rats treated with caloric restriction and exercise (HFD‐CR+EX), obese rats treated with spirulina algae and caloric restriction (HFD‐SA+CR), and obese rats treated with SA+CR+EX (HFD‐SA+CR+EX). Also, the exercise protocol was performed for eight weeks, three sessions per week at an intensity of 80%–110% of maximum running speed. The spirulina algae were consumed by gavage (100 mg/kg/day), and caloric restriction used 60% of the food consumed. We found that SA+CR+EX significantly modified the Nrf1/Tfam/MGMT and ATP5A1 network in cardiovascular disease‐inducing obesity rats (p <.01). Moreover, we predicted SA could be bound to Tfam and MGMT protein targets. Hence, exercise, caloric restriction, and spirulina algae had a synergistic effect on mitochondrial biogenesis in the heart tissue of obese rats (p <.01). Practical applications: According to artificial intelligence and medical biology servers, we discovered that mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative stress are dominant phenomena in the cardiovascular system. Nrf1/Tfam/MGMT and ATP5A1, as pivotal regulators of oxidative stress, could play an utmost important role in the cardiovascular disease‐inducing obesity molecular pathway. Furthermore, several studies have indicated that environmental factors such as the western diet and physical inactivity disrupted the mitochondrial dynamic, which led to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS). We predicted the binding power of the Spirulina's small molecules on Tfam and Mgmt proteins based on drug‐discovery technology and pharmacokinetic parameters. Considering oxidative stress and mitochondrial machinery related to the action of some molecular pathways, mitochondria‐related nuclear‐encoded proteins, and ROS, this study evaluated the high‐intensity interval training, caloric restriction, and spirulina consumption on heart mitochondrial biogenesis in obese rats. Our data might provide a novel strategy for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease‐inducing obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles are an emerging concept for increasing fuel properties. The purpose of this research work is to determine the effect of magnesium oxide nanoparticles on the performance and emission characteristics of diesel engines that run on a spirulina microalgae biodiesel blend (B20) as a fuel. The ultrasonication was used to disperse MgO nanoparticles in B20 fuel at various concentrations (25, 50, 75, and 100 ppm). The significant findings indicated that B20+100 blends reduced specific fuel consumption by 20.1% and had a 5.09% higher brake thermal efficiency than B20. B20+100 blends reduced CO, hydrocarbon, and smoke emissions by a maximum of 32.02%, 30.03%, and 26.07%, respectively, compared to B20. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies investigated the usage of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) in aquaculture as a functional dietary additive or plant proteins replacers; however, more efforts still needed to test its nano form inclusion in aquafeed. In this study, Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed dietary spirulina (A. platensis) nanoparticles (SNP) at 0 (control), 0.1, 1 and 10 g/kg diet while the fifth diet was mixed with 10 g/kg of the normal form of A. platensis as a positive control. The final weight (FW), weight gain (WG) and feed conversion ratio of fish fed SNP at 10 g/kg displayed improved values comparing with the other groups (p < 0.05). Further, fish fed 1 g SNP had higher FW and WG than the control and 0.1 g SNP and 10 g normal A. platensis. The incorporation of SNP at 1 and 10 g/kg in Nile tilapia diets significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced total protein, albumin, globulin, lowered the values of serum glucose and activities of ALT and AST compared with control and spirulina groups. The SOD, CAT, GPx, lysozyme and respiratory burst activities were meaningfully promoted (p < 0.05) in fish received 1 and 10 g/kg diet concerning the control and spirulina groups. Nile tilapia challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila showed congestion of the kidney, liver and spleen tissues while SNP alleviated the inflammation induced by A. hydrophila. Different levels of SNP‐incorporated group showed lower cumulative mortality than the other groups. In conclusion, the obtained results illustrated that spirulina in nano form is recommended to enhance Nile tilapia well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed optimizing the extraction conditions of phycocyanins from Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina), and their incorporation in soft beverage. The response surface methodology based on Box–Behnken design was used to assess the influence of the three factors being pH (6–10), sample to solvent ratio (1–5 mg/ml), and extraction time (15–85 min) on total phycocyanins content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (AA) of Spirulina, and the optimal conditions were, respectively, 7.64 of pH, 3.46 mg/ml, and 44.61 min. The maximum TPC and AA recorded by the two validated models were 37.42 g/100 g DW and 41.15 g AAE/100 g DW, respectively. The enriched natural soft beverage with phycocyanins obtained new product of three formulations (A, B, and C). After sensorial analysis, the training panel prefers the sample A. The phycocyanins beverage developed may be considered as a functional food with an interesting source of natural antioxidant colorants substituting synthetic food additives. Practical applications: This paper focuses on the use of response surface methodology for modeling and optimizing the phycocyanins extraction from Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina), known as Spirulina. The phycocyanins extract (natural colorants and antioxidants) can be used as natural food additives alternative to synthetic ones. In our case, a preliminary supplementation essay was performed, and the phytochemical, antioxidant, and sensorial parameters were assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of spirulina meal (Spirulina platensis) as a feed additive on growth and physiological response of Oscar fish,Astronotus ocellatus, was assessed using four diets including control without spirulina supplementation, 13.75 g/kg spirulina (SP1), 27.50 g/kg spirulina (SP2) and 55 g/kg spirulina (SP3). One hundred and twenty fish (10.41 ± 0.25 g) were disturbed to twelve aquariums and fed to apparent satiation three times a day for 8 weeks. The result showed that the SP3 treatment had statistically better growth performance, feeding parameters, total protease activity, total protein and lipid contents than the control. Moreover, haemoglobin, haematocrit, mean erythrocyte haemoglobin and mean erythrocyte haemoglobin concentrations were improved considerably in the SP3 treatment compared with the control. The SP3 treatment showed higher total protein and albumin levels, but lower triglycerides, cholesterol levels and liver enzyme activities than the control. Also, serum complements (C3, C4), lysozyme activity and total carotenoid contents in fish skin significantly increased in the SP3 treatment compared with the control. The results of this study suggest that spirulina powder at the level of 55 g/kg of the diet can be used as a functional natural feed additive to improve the performance of Oscar fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to improve the stability of ellagic acid, was extracted from the pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peels (PPs) in an aqueous and hydroalcoholic medium separately, and encapsulate it onto Spirulina microalgae. Composed EA‐Spirulina microencapsules were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). They all showed that there EA was encapsulated onto Spirulina microalgae successfully and EA was nside cell wall of microalgae. After the determination of the amounts of EA encapsulated onto the microalgae by HPLC analysis and Folin–Chiocalteu method; the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms were obtained for the adsorption. Finally, these microencapsules were stored for 21 days at 4°C for the purpose of EA stability. As a result, microencapsulation helped to maintain the stability of EA successfully. Practical applications: This study describes that the microencapsulation of the aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of PP onto the Spirulina. This application has been performed in order to improve the stability and bioavailability of the low‐stability extracts, ie ellagic acid (EA). Thus, EA can be removed from the solvent medium and stored more stable and longer in solid form. After the characterization of the obtained Spirulina‐EA pair, a storage study was conducted for stability research. The results will also guide other researchers working on this technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypertension is a multifactorial disorder considered one of the major causes of premature death worldwide. This pathology is associated with vascular functional/structural alterations in which nitric oxide (NO) and oxygen reactive species participate. On the other hand, the use of microalgae extracts in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases is increasing. Based on the antioxidant and antihypertensive properties of Spirulina, this study aims to investigate the effect of an aqueous extract of Spirulina on the vasodilator function of the aorta from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), analyzing the functional role of NO. For this, aortic segments from male SHR were divided into two groups, one control and the other exposed to an Spirulina aqueous extract (0.1% w/v, for 3 hours), to analyze (i) the production of NO, superoxide anion, and hydrogen peroxide; (ii) the vasodilator response induced by acetylcholine (ACh), by the NO donor and sodium nitroprusside (SNP), and by the KATP channel opener and pinacidil; and (iii) the expression of the p-Akt, p-eNOS, and HO-1 proteins. The results showed that the aqueous Spirulina extract (i) increased the production of NO, did not significantly modify that of superoxide, while decreased that of hydrogen peroxide; (ii) increased the vasodilatory responses induced by ACh, NPS, and pinacidil; and (iii) increased the expression of p-Akt and HO-1. These results suggest that incubation with the aqueous Spirulina extract improves the vascular function of arteries from SHR by increasing the release/bioavailability/function of NO. Increased KATP channel activation and expression of pAkt and HO-1 appear to be participating in these actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirulina species are edible with high nutritional as well as potential therapeutic values. In this work, we show that phenolic extracts from Spirulina (p‐Coumaric acid) possessed inhibitory potential on α‐glucosidase (IC50 = 1.67 ± 0.02 mM) and tyrosinase (IC50 = 52.71 ± 3.01 mM). Moreover, p‐Coumaric acid inhibited α‐glucosidase and tyrosinase in a reversible mixed‐type manner. Interestingly, molecular docking demonstrated that p‐Coumaric acid penetrated in depth of the active‐site of tyrosinase and α‐glucosidase by the noncovalent force or interaction. Among them, making polar interactions with Cu2+ ions and the amino acid residue capable of forming cation‐π significantly contribute to the strong binding of p‐Coumaric acid on tyrosinase. p‐Coumaric acid was isolated and identified from Spirulina for the first time, which can be used as a lead compound for the design of functional food additives and skin‐lightening active ingredient in cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals against type 2 diabetes. Practical applications: A natural, food‐derived compound possessing the potential for the development of an anti‐hyperglycaemic and skin‐lightening supplement is very promising in cosmetics, functional food, and pharmaceuticals against type 2 diabetes. Herein, the present study is the first to present high levels of p‐Coumaric acid from Spirulina, which simultaneously possessed inhibition potential on α‐glucosidase and tyrosinase. Importantly, we gained initial information about the polypeptide‐inhibitor interactions and underlying mechanisms for Spirulina's therapeutic effects, which will provide the bases for developing new drugs for preventing or treating type 2 diabetes and enzyme inhibitors. Moreover, this work also demonstrates the potential of the extraction of high‐value chemicals from Spirulina waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The aim of this study was to investigate the behavior of two distinct microalgae species during solar catalytic pyrolysis and the influence of their chemical composition and the process variables (biomass charge, reaction time, and catalyst percentage) on the product yields and bio‐oil composition. For this purpose, solar catalytic pyrolysis of Spirulina platensis and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii was performed using hydrotalcite‐derived mixed oxides as the catalyst. To gain more insight into the effect of composition on pyrolysis behavior, the biomasses were analyzed using various analytical techniques. The results indicated that a high percentage of catalyst (47.1%) culminated in liquid yields of 42.48% and 21.31% for Chlamydomonas pyrolysis and Spirulina pyrolysis, respectively. Additionally, Spirulina pyrolysis resulted in higher solid yields compared with Chlamydomonas pyrolysis. The results also showed that Spirulina bio‐oil was rich in oxygenated compounds, probably due to its high carbohydrate content, whereas Chlamydomonas bio‐oil was rich in nitrogenated compounds because of its higher protein content. The microalgae composition (lipids, protein, carbohydrates) exerted a large influence on the catalytic pathways and led to differences in yield and product distribution. A high percentage of catalysts preferentially promoted a deoxygenation of the bio‐oil obtained from Spirulina solar pyrolysis compared with that obtained from Chlamydomonas pyrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Metal‐free catalyst based on Spirulina platensis microalgae (SPM) is protonated by phosphoric acid (H3PO4) treatment (SPM‐H3PO4). The microalgae sample is then exposed to heating with different temperatures including 200, 300, and 400 °C (SPM‐H3PO4‐H). The modified microalgae sample based on Spirulina platensis as a catalyst is directly used to generate hydrogen via the methanolysis of sodium borohydride (MSB). The activation temperature, activation time, NaBH4 concentration, catalyst amounts, temperature and reusability tests were carried out. The maximum hydrogen production rates (HGR) obtained for SPM‐H3PO4‐H at temperatures of 30 °C and 60 °C were 3975 and 9600 mLmin−1gcat−1, respectively. At the same time, the activation energy(Ea) of 17.78 kJ mol−1 was obtained. Reusability experiments were performed for this microalgae‐based metal‐free catalyst. XRD, SEM, FTIR, BET, and TEM analyzes were performed for characterization of these metal‐free catalyst samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present trial was performed to evaluate the effect of dietary incorporation of dried Spirulina, Chlorella and their mixture on the immune status of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) before and after artificial infection with pathogenic bacterium Aeromonas hydrophila (A. hydrophila). Two hundred and forty fish were divided into four groups: (a) a control group fed on a basal diet only, (b) a second group fed on a diet containing Spirulina 15%, (c) a third group fed on a diet containing Chlorella 15%, and (d) a fourth group fed on a diet containing a mixture of both Spirulina 15% and Chlorella 15%. At the end of the experiment (9 weeks), the four groups were experimentally infected with A. hydrophila for 7 days. Antioxidant enzymes, lysozyme and bactericidal activities and histopathological changes were determined just before the challenge test and 7 days post‐challenge. Significant (p ≤ 0.05) increases in fish body protein% before the challenge test and increases in serum antioxidant enzymes, lysozyme and bactericidal activity in the Chlorella and algal mixture groups before and after the challenge test were observed. Spirulina, Chlorella and their mixture groups significantly decreased serum malondialdehyde compared to the control group before and after the challenge test. Using Spirulina, Chlorella and their mixture mitigated the necrotic and degenerative changes induced by A. hydrophila and revealed well‐developed and multiple melanomacrophage centres. Thus, dietary Spirulina, Chlorella and their mixture inclusion in Nile tilapia fish proved to have a protective effect against A. hydrophila infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 40‐day experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of two filamentous microalgae as feed ingredients on growth performance, tissue fatty acid profiles, pigmentation and immunity of gibel carp (204.83 ± 2.17 g, mean ± SD). Three diets (control, Oedocladium sp. and Tribonema sp.) were formulated. In the control diet, no microalgal meal was added and into the Oedocladium and Tribonema diets were added 40 g/kg Oedocladium sp. meal and 50 g/kg Tribonema sp. meal, respectively. Compared to the control, the addition of Oedocladium sp. and Tribonema sp. had significant effects on tissue fatty acid profiles, antioxidant capacity and immunity without compromising growth, body composition and pigmentation. The addition of Tribonema sp. and Oedocladium sp. significantly increased the EPA, DHA profiles and the ratio of n‐3/n‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and simultaneously decreased the n‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids profile in fish muscles. Moreover, addition of Tribonema sp. to the diet significantly increased muscle palmitoleic profile and EPA + DHA contents. Furthermore, the addition of either microalga significantly increased the total superoxide dismutase activity level and the complement 3 and immunoglobulin M contents in the plasma. These results demonstrate that Oedocladium sp. and Tribonema sp. can be used as feed ingredients to improve flesh quality and increase the immunity of fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine the effects of fish meal or plant‐based diets with supplementation of dietary Spirulina (4%) on shelf life of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. Rainbow trout (initial weight: ~135 g) were fed four experimental diets (fish meal‐based FM, plant meal‐based‐PM, Spirulina included at 4% of fish meal‐based‐FM/S or plant meal‐based PM/S) for 12 weeks. After the feeding trial, trout were stored on ice at 4°C for 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 days. The chemical, microbiological and sensory analyses of fish were subjected to each sampling days for flesh quality evaluation. TBA of supplemented dietary Spirulina was lower than that non‐supplemented dietary Spirulina. pH values of all groups decreased significantly between days 0 and 20 during the storage period (p < 0.05). Luminosity (L*) value of all groups increased with time in storage period. Fish fed Spirulina supplemented diets showed an increased red/green tonality (a*) (p < 0.05) compared with fish fed non‐Spirulina supplemented diets. In the end of the storage period, the total coliforms values of fish fed with PM/S diet lower than that of other all diets. In conclusion, dietary Spirulina could be allowed the shelf life of the rainbow trout to be extended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of replacing fish meal with dietary Spirulina as a feed supplement on the growth performance and coloration of blue dolphin cichlids (Cyrtocara moorii). Five isonitrogenous (47% crude protein) and isocaloric (17.36 kJ/g digestible energy) diets were for formulated to replace FM with 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% Spirulina (designated as Control, SP5, SP10, SP15 and SP20 respectively) and fed to the fish (initial body weight, 3.15 ± 0.01 g). Fish were randomly distributed into fifteen 120 L aquariums (26.5 ± 1.00°C), 15 fish per aquarium. The diets were tested in triplicate for 12 weeks. Experimental groups were fed twice daily (09:00 and 17:00) by hand to satiation. At the end of the feeding trial, significantly (p < 0.05) higher weight gain (WG), specific growth rate (SGR), protein efficiency ratio (PER) and lower feed conversion ratio (FCR) were observed in fish fed the SP10 diet when compared to the SP20 diet. There was no significant difference in these parameters between the other groups. The skin coloration of blue dolphin cichlid fed a diet containing Spirulina meal was enhanced. The best coloration was observed in the SP15 group. These impressions were objectively validated by chemical determinations of carotenoids extracted from fish skins and passed statistical tests of significance. The study findings show that Spirulina meal does not diminish growth rates except at very high levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rigid cell walls of microalgae may hinder their utilization in fish feeds. The current experiment assessed the correlation between the accessibility of microalgae nutrients and their in vivo digestibility in African catfish. Nannochloropsis gaditana biomass was subjected to physical or mechanical treatments to weaken its cell wall; untreated--no disruption treatment (UNT), pasteurization (PAS), freezing (FRO), freezedrying (FRD), cold pasteurization (L40) and bead milling (BEM). Six experimental diets formulated from differently treated and untreated microalgae (at 30% diet inclusion level) were tested on growth performance and apparent nutrient digestibility (ADCs) in juvenile African catfish. A basal diet (REF) containing no microalgae was used as reference diet. Results showed that biomass gain and feed conversion ratio of fish fed L40 and BEM diets increased by 13% and 11%, respectively, relative to the UNT diet. Additionally, FRD, FRO, L40 and BEM cell wall disruption treatments improved protein digestibility by 0.5%, 5.9%, 8.4% and 16.3%, respectively, compared to the UNT treatment. There was a positive correlation between accessibility of microalgal nutrients and their digestibility in African catfish. Nutrient digestibility of microalgae was dependent on extent of cell disruption. Also, the impact of cell disruption on nutrient digestibility of microalgae differs between African catfish and Nile tilapia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article has been retracted by Hindawi following an investigation undertaken by the publisher [[1]]. We wish to credit our own Research Integrity and Research Publishing teams and anonymous and named external researchers and research integrity experts for contributing to this investigation. [Extracted from the article]

Summary: In the study, a different support material based on ZnCl2‐treated Spirulina microalgal strain (SSMS‐ZnCl2) was prepared. Then, the SSMS‐ZnCl2‐CoB catalysts were used as a very efficient catalyst to produce hydrogen via the SB methanolysis. The SB concentration, Co metal percentage in the supported‐catalyst, ZnCl2 concentration, ZnCl2 impregnation time, temperature, and reusability experiments were performed. The maximum hydrogen generation rates (HGR) for the SSMS‐ZnCl2‐CoB at 30°C and 60°C were found to be 9266 and 36 366 mL min−1 gcat−1, respectively. In addition, TOF values for 30°C and 60°C were calculated 33 and 110 L·molH2·molCo−1·min−1 for the methanolysis of SB with SSMS‐ZnCl2‐CoB catalyst. The activation energy was 31.13 kJ mol−1. The reusability experiments were repeated five times under the same conditions. The almost 100% conversion was obtained at each use. XRD, FTIR, TEM, SEM‐EDX, and ICP‐MS analysis were performed for SSMS‐ZnCl2‐CoB characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirulina has been highlighted as a valuable complementary ingredient in aquafeeds due to its high protein and vitamin content, in addition to other nutritional benefits. To evaluate the effect of dietary spirulina inclusion in fish meal sparing (FMS) on juvenile Caspian brown trout as a slow‐growth fish, a complete randomized experimental design was developed with five treatments: 0% (control), 2% FMS (13.2 g/kg spirulina in diet), 4% FMS (26.4 g/kg spirulina in diet), 6% FMS (39.6 g/kg spirulina in diet) and 8% FMS (52.8 g/kg spirulina in diet). Six hundred juveniles (11.0 ± 1.0 g) were assigned to 15 experimental tanks. Although this fish is sensitive to diet composition, fish fed the 6% FMS and 8% FMS diets had a significantly higher weight gain rate (239.51% and 231.27%) and specific growth rate (1.74% bw per day and 1.71% bw per day) compared with those fed the control diet. Furthermore, 6% FMS and 8% FMS treatments had statistically higher protein efficiency (0.76 and 0.78), lipid efficiency (1.89 and 1.94) and statistically lower feed conversion ratio (2.47 and 2.41) compared with other treatments, respectively (p < 0.05). In terms of whole‐body composition, the higher amount of protein and lower content of lipid were observed in fish fed the 8% FMS diets as compared to control. Although no significant differences in ash and moisture content were observed, the highest protein deposition (157.3 g/kg) and the lowest lipid content (77 g/kg) in whole body were reported in fish fed 8% FMS diet. Based on the fillet fatty acid outcome, fish fed the 8% FMS diet had significantly higher saturated fatty acids (SFAs), C20:3n‐6, C18:3n‐3, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and total n‐3 fatty acids as compared to those fed the control diet (p < 0.05). Accordingly, increasing dietary spirulina content significantly enhanced the amount of these fatty acids in fish fillet. As regards of whole‐body amino acid profile, arginine and lysine in fish fed 6% FMS and 8% FMS diets were higher and lower than in those fed the control diet, respectively (p < 0.05). Fillet and skin colour parameters, such as luminosity, redness and yellowness, significantly increased with spirulina supplementation with the 8% FMS treatment displaying higher values than the control. In summary, according to our results, 8% FMS (52.8 g/kg spirulina in diet) treatment improved juvenile Caspian brown trout growth, carcass composition and pigmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apparent crude protein (ADCCP), crude fat (ADCCF), gross energy (ADCGE) and phosphorus (ADCP) digestibility coefficients of several typical and novel feedstuffs were determined to be utilized in formulated diets of pacu (20.3 ± 5.6 g). The tested feedstuffs included two fish meals, four terrestrial animal by‐products, three plant protein concentrates, six high‐protein plant meals and two low‐protein plant meals. The values of ADCCP varied in different fish meals ranging from 96.17% for Koli fish meal to 95.17% for Sardine fish meal. The values of ADCCP for plant protein concentrates ranged from 92.17% for wheat gluten meal to 93.17% for corn gluten meal. The values of ADCCP ranged from 50.17% for faba bean meal to 73.43% for spirulina meal. The ADCP ranged from 51.77% for low‐protein plant meals to 85.72% for fish meals. A significant (p < 0.05) linear regression (r2 = 0.96) was observed among in vivo ADCCP of five feedstuff classes fed to pacu and in vitro ADCCP. Based on these observations, we conclude that pacu as an omnivorous fish tend to utilize nutrient‐rich ingredients from high‐protein plant meals to fish meals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production and nature of the biocrude obtained from Spirulina sp. by hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) technology is focused in this investigation. Our aim is to evaluate the interaction of different factors on the bio-oil production through HTL using microalgae that contains relatively low lipid content and high protein. Optimization of three key parameters—concentration (mass of algae per mass of solvent), reaction temperature, and holding time—was carried out by response surface methodology (RSM). In this work, we used central composite design to conduct the experiment process. Graphical response surface and contour plots were used to locate the optimum point. The final results showed that the optimum concentration, temperature, and holding time were 10.5%, 357°C, and 37 min, respectively. Under the optimum conditions established, yield of the biocrude (41.6 ± 2.2%) was experimentally obtained using the fresh microalgae. This study showed the potential of bio-oil production of Spirulina sp. by HTL technology, but it still needs more improvement of the biocrude for utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aim of the study was to determine the effect of the addition of 0, 1, 3, and 6% of Spirulina powder (SP) on physicochemical properties and consumer acceptability of shortbread biscuits during storage. Color, hardness, water content, water activity, total antioxidant activity (TAA), total phenolic content, lipid oxidation, fatty acids profile, and sensory evaluation of biscuits were determined on 0, 30, 60, and 90 days of storage. Results showed that biscuits baked with the addition of SP were significantly harder and darker than the control during the whole period of storage. Despite this, they were still acceptable by consumers. It was observed that in each day of storage biscuits with SP had more phenolic compounds and higher values of TAA than the control, and their contents increased with the level of SP addition. Moreover, the addition of SP reduced oxidative changes of shortbread biscuits during storage. Practical Applications: Intense competition in the market of biscuit manufacturers forces to implement product innovations in order to attract new groups of consumers. Shortbread biscuits with Spirulina powder could be characterized not only by nutritional properties and quite good sensorial acceptability but also by extended shelf life. Additionally, so far products identical with the proposed have not been observed, which creates great opportunities for their commercialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Natural dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are becoming promising candidates for replacing synthetic dyes. Anthocyanins, a flavonoid pigment which is responsible for the coloration in fruits and flowers, have shown productive results in employing them as natural dye for DSSC. But unfortunately, they exhibit low efficiency compared with synthetic dyes. Probing the reasons for the low efficiency of anthocyanin paves way for finding solution to increase the efficiency. This paper lists the important factors that are responsible for anthocyanin instability in DSSC. As a remedial measure, this paper introduces two buffer layer made of algal byproducts—sodium alginate and Spirulina. Rutile phase TiO2 nanorods prepared by hydrothermal method were used as photoelectrode and are subsequently characterized by X ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and optical studies. The use of sodium alginate above the photoelectrode has proved to improve the dye concentration in the film by introducing more hydroxyl groups on the surface of TiO2. Anthocyanins extracted from rose petals using citric acid as solvent were used as dye for DSSC. Prior to the sensitization process with anthocyanin dye, the TiO2 film (with sodium alginate) was sensitized with Spirulina. The chlorophylls, xanthophylls, phycocyanins, and amino acids present in Spirulina assist the anthocyanins to bond with TiO2 efficiently. This helps in enhancing the efficiency of anthocyanins of rose dye from 0.99% to 1.47%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The farming of sea cucumber is a growing industry that demands feeds that are tailored to the organism's nutritional needs. Therefore, in this study, the effect of diet composition, with and without additives, on the growth, survival, specific growth rate (SGR) and body biochemical composition of the four‐sided sea cucumber Isostichopus badionotus was evaluated over a period of 3 months. Four diets were used: D1 (Macrocystis sp. and Sargassum sp.), D2 (Macrocystis sp. and Spirulina sp.), D3 (Sargassum sp. and Spirulina sp.) and D4 (Macrocystis sp., Sargassum sp. and Spirulina sp.), and the same diets enriched with 0.22% of Algamac 2000® (D1H, D2H, D3H and D4H) were also tested. The organisms fed the diets containing Spirulina sp. demonstrated the highest growth rates and significantly greater SGR (% per day) (p < .05), an effect that was enhanced by the food additive (D2 0.67%; D2H 0.78%; D3H 0.76%). Survival and body composition were not affected by diet type. Based on these results, the use of Spirulina sp. combined with supplements rich in PUFA content is recommended in the formulation of diets to promote the growth of I. badionotus juvenile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micronutrients fortified spirulina supplemented rice-soy crisps (SRSC) were manufactured using novel supercritical fluid extrusion. A low-shear, twin screw, co-rotating extruder operated at lower temperatures (∼100C) was used to produce crisps supplemented with various levels (2-8%) of spirulina and fortified with four micronutrients (iron, zinc, vitamin A, C) at the recommended daily values in 100 g product. The SRSC were analyzed for proximate composition, dietary fiber, added nutrients, texture and morphological characteristics. The extrusion process retained minerals (87-100%), vitamin A (45-50%) and vitamin C (52-47%), respectively. Rice-soy crisps supplemented with 6% spirulina got the highest score (8.50) from the sensory judges due to appealing color, smooth surface, better crispiness and pleasant flavor and overall acceptability followed by rice soy spirulina crisp supplemented with 4% spirulina (7.80). The developed SRSC can successfully be incorporated in school nutrition programs due to shelf stability, palatability, economic feasibility and fulfilling nutrient requirements of children. Practical Applications SC-CO2-assisted extrusion is an innovative process-based approach to produce shelf stable nutritious crispy products which can be further be converted into food bars for school nutrition programs to reduce the menace of malnutrition. Spirulina and spirulina protein isolates can efficiently be utilized in various food formulations to alleviate the nutrient deficient among the masses. Furthermore, information derived from the present investigation can be helpful for the researchers to understand compositional, functional and nutritional attributes of spirulina and its application in array of foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin regeneration is a complex process involving massive proliferation and alignment of cells, where there are obstacles to completion of regeneration, the main one being excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from inflammation or infection. Spirulina, blue-green algae that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, has been used to relieve such ROS stress. In this study, Spirulina extract loaded PCL (Spirulina-PCL) nanofiber was evaluated as a cutaneous wound dressing in view of antioxidative mechanism. In addition to increasing fibroblast viability, the Spirulina extract and its dressing modulated intra- and extracellular ROS by enhancing antioxidant mechanism of fibroblast under oxidative stress. Finally, in vivo assays confirmed that Spirulina-PCL helps regenerate wounds and enhance regeneration. Taken together, the results of this study indicate that Spirulina and nanofiber have the potential for application to cutaneous wound to facilitate skin regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to optimize the drying operation of S pirulina sp. using the heat pump to dehumidify the air. An experimental design using the drying air temperature (30, 40 and 50C) and the initial sample thickness (1, 3 and 5 mm) was performed. The responses were the physicochemical properties and the color parameters of the dried microalgae. The air temperature presented the highest effect on the phycocyanin content, while the sample thickness showed the highest influence on the other responses. The optimal operating conditions for the heat pump drying of S pirulina sp. were at air drying temperature of 50C and sample thickness of 5 mm. The phycocyanin content, total antioxidant activity and color difference were found to be 19.60 mg/g, 52.6% and 5.71, respectively. Thermograms (differential scanning calorimetry) showed that under these conditions, the product showed the highest thermal stability. Practical Applications The culture of S pirulina sp. is attractive for various commercial purposes, such as nutritional supplement for humans and animals and supply of active metabolites in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry. The conventional tray drying is a traditional method that is used in the microalgae drying. However, the heat pump drying enables operation in lower temperatures than the traditionally used in convective hot air drying. This operation occurs in moderate conditions of temperature and humidity due to air dehumidification, leading to retention of bioactive compounds in products that are heat sensitive. Therefore, the use of heat pump dryer for the production of dried S pirulina should be promising to preserve its phytochemicals and physical characteristics. The benefits of heat pump drying have been shown in different studies in the literature, but there are no reports about its use in S pirulina drying and its influence on the physicochemical and functional characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. Despite high levels of malnutrition, there is still very little information on the nutritional benefits of Spirulina, a natural alga that provides essential amino acids, rare essential lipids, and numerous minerals and vitamins, to undernourished children in the world. Methods. We carried out a prospective study of 50 children aged between six and 60 months. The intervention group consisted of 16 children who received 10 g of Spirulina daily, as well as the local diet administered by the nutritional centre, and the control group of 34 children who just received the local diet. Both groups of children were assessed on day zero, day 15, and day 30. Results. After treatment, the weight-for-age Z scores and weight-for-height Z scores increased significantly in the intervention group. At day 15, there was a statistically significant difference between the mean corpuscular volume, total proteins, and albumin (p<0.05) in both groups, in favour of the intervention group, and at day 30, this difference extended to all of the studied parameters (p<0.05). Conclusion. This study found that the nutritional status of undernourished children who received Spirulina supplements as well as the local diet administered by the nutritional centre improved quickly and significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We determined apparent digestibility coefficients ( ADCs) of macronutrients, amino acids and fatty acids for freshwater ( Spirulina, SPI; Chlorella, CHL) and marine ( Schizochytrium, SCI) microalgal ingredients in Nile tilapia via four diets: reference ( Ref containing fish and plant feedstuffs) and SPI, CHL and SCI ( Ref/dried algal cells at 7:3). ADCs of crude protein were significantly higher in SPI than in CHL, comparing well with literature values for fishmeal and plant feedstuffs. ADCs of all essential amino acids were generally higher in SPI. Very high lysine and methionine ADCs in SPI and SCI were similar to or higher than reported value for plants. SCI had 5-10 times richest lipid and n−3 PUFA contents, significantly highest ADCs for lipid, n−3 and n−6 PUFA; and highest content and digestibility of DHA (undetected in other microalgae). Crude fibre ADCs were significantly higher in Ref and SPI than in SCI and CHL. CHL's highest fibre content (79 g kg−1) possibly depressed its ADCs of five essential amino acids and n−3 PUFA. Results suggest that SPI is a good alternative protein and SCI a quality fish oil substitute or long-chain PUFA supplement for tilapia diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research involved testing the replacement of corn gluten protein concentrate in the diet of 1.5 g Nile tilapia with biofuel algae-based or algae supplemented with phosphorus diets. Experimental diets were formulated to replace 50% of the gluten meal protein in the control diet with biofuel algae protein (Alga50) or Spirulina (Spirulina50) protein. In addition, dicalcium phosphate ( P) was added to the Alga50 at a concentration of 3.8% or 7.74% to mitigate aluminium ( Al) toxicity and designated as Alga50 + P, and Alga50 + PP respectively. After 9 weeks of the feeding experiment, fish fed diets supplemented with P, Alga50 + P and Alga50 + PP differed significantly ( P < 0.05) with respect to the feed conversion and protein deposition from the control. The mineral composition of the fish body showed a decrease in levels of Al and iron ( Fe) due to the P supplements. The mineral composition of the faeces indicated that Al and Fe were excreted in the faeces and were not accumulated in the fish body. The effect of dicalcium P supplementation on the neutralization of Al in the diet resulted in improved fish growth and histological integrity of the gastrointestinal tract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physical properties and sensory attributes of an extruded product are generally influenced by a large number of process and ingredient variables. Expansion is the most important physical property of the snack food. The effects of spirulina powder ( SP) addition to maize flour ( MF) on the physico-chemical and sensory quality of extrudates were investigated. Addition of SP (7.5%) in the MF blend increased the carotenoids, protein and zinc contents and produced crisp to hard-textured extruded products. The protein, zinc and carotenoid content of extruded product were respectively, 14.63%, 6.66 mg/Kg and 138.83 mg/kg. Optimum operating conditions for development of SP and MF blended extrudate were: barrel temperature (109.2 C), screw speed (280 rpm) and feed moisture (16% d.b.). These optimum process conditions resulted lateral expansion of 161.46%, bulk density, 0.18 g/cm3; water absorption index, 6.22 g/g; and overall acceptability, 6.12 with desirability 0.809. Practical Applications Extruded food products produced from cereals are usually low in protein and have a poor biological value due to their limited essential amino acid contents and are often fortified with proteins. Spirulina - cyanobacteria has been used by different populations as protein source and other nutritional requirement. Successful incorporation of spirulina into cereal-based extruded products could deliver physiologically active components, represents a major opportunity for food processors who are engaged in providing the consumer a healthy maize-based product, which is currently lacking in the market place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirulina is a kind of blue-green algae with good photosynthetic efficiency and might be used for photovoltaic power generation. So this paper used living spirulina as novel photosensitizer to construct spirulina biosolar cell. The results showed that spirulina had the photoelectric conversion effect, and could let the spirulina biosolar cell have 70 µA photocurrent. Meanwhile, adding glucose sucrose or chitosan in the spirulina anode chamber, they could make the maxima current density of the cell greatly increased by 80 µA, 100 µA, and S4 µA, respectively, and the sucrose could improve the maximum power density of the cell to 63mW/m-2. Phycobiliprotein played an important role in the photosynthesis of spirulina. So in this paper phycobiliprotein was extracted from spirulina to composite with squaraine dye to sensitize nanocrystalline TiO2 photoanode for building dye sensitized solar cell, and the photoelectric properties of the cell also were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diets incorporating different levels of corn gluten meal replacement using biofuel algae or Spirulina protein at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% were evaluated for larval/juvenile stage of Nile tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus). Fish averaging 0.02 g were divided into groups of 50. There were three replicates per every dietary treatment that were fed one of six diets for 11 weeks. Corn gluten protein was replaced with algae on the protein basis. All diets were supplemented with 1.5% lysine and 0.5% methionine. The experimental diets were formulated to contain 37 ± 2.8% protein and 14 ± 4.3% lipid in the form of fish oil and soybean lecithin (phospholipids source). The results indicated that algae positively affected feed consumption and fish growth up to the 50% replacement and then performance was depressed. Significant differences in concentration of individual minerals (Al, Fe, Zn and Cu) in the whole fish body were found. Mineral composition of algae might have affected growth when diets which contained more than 75% of plant protein were replaced with microalgae. These findings suggest that up to 50% of dietary corn gluten meal protein can be replaced with microalgae which significantly enhance fish growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclophosphamide (Cyc) is known to cause ovotoxicity and infertility in women. Our aim is to investigate the possible ovotoxic effects of Cyc and possible antioxidant and protective effects of blue-green algae, Spirulina (Sp), in rat ovaries. Eighteen rats were given: group I (n = 6, control); group II (n = 6, CP), a single doseCyc; group III (n = 6, Sp+Cyc), 7 days Sp+single dose Cyc. Tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities are assessed biochemically. Normal and atretic primordial and primary follicle counts for all sections obtained for each ovary are calculated. Mean number of follicle counts for each group are compared. In Sp+Cyc group, tissue MDA levels were significantly lower than those in the CP and higher than those in the C group (CP > Sp+Cyc > C). Tissue SOD activity was significantly higher in Sp+Cyc group than that in the CP group and lower than that in the C group (C > Sp+Cyc > C). No statistically significant difference was found between the ovarian CAT activities in any group. Histomorphometrically, there was also no significant difference between the mean numbers of normal and atretic small follicle counts. Our results suggest that single dose Cyc has adverse effects on oxidant status of the ovaries and Sp has protective effects in Cyc-induced ovotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To determine the prevalence of herbal treatment of allergic rhinitis. Methods. In this prospective study, patients who were diagnosed with perennial allergic rhinitis were questioned about their use of natural products/herbal therapies for their symptoms. Results. In total, 230 patientswere enrolled.Overall, 37.3% of the patients stated that they had used natural products/herbal therapies at least once. Women were more likely than men to use herbal supplements (38.3% versus 32.4%). Ten different types of herbal supplements were identified, with stinging nettle (Urtica dioicath), black elderberry (Sambucus nigra), and Spirulina being the most common (12.6%, 6.1%, and 5.7%, resp.). Conclusion. This study found a high prevalence of herbal treatment usage for the relief of allergic rhinitis symptoms in Turkey. The herbal products identified in this study and in the literature are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY This paper compares some important parameters obtained in the hydrogen production between the photosynthetic microorganisms Spirulina maxima 2342 and Scenedesmus obliquus 39. It is also reported the employment of hydrogen produced in this study (m3 s−1) in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) for electricity production. A comparison is also made between the electric current generated and the final dry biomass (mA mg−1) under specific experimental conditions. In this study, the electric current generated in the PEMFC for a period of 200 min under the light intensity of 150 µE m−2 s−1 and agitation was monitored. With the average current generated by the fuel cell the hydrogen produced by each microorganism is determined. The chromatography method was used to confirm the presence of hydrogen produced by each microorganism which was fed to the PEMFC. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aimed at studying the growth performance and feeding preference of Litopenaeus vannamei juveniles fed on diets supplemented or not with Spirulina meal. Litopenaeus vannamei juveniles (3.89 ± 0.25 g) were stocked for 72 days in 28 round 500-L tanks at 44 shrimp/tank (77 juveniles/m2). The diets were supplemented with 0.5% of a commercial feed attractant (C25 and C50) or with Spirulina meal (S25 and S50). In C25/S25 and C50/S50 there were reductions of 25% and 50% in fishmeal inclusion level respectively. In a further study, two feeding trays with different diets were allowed to shrimp at the same moment and they were located in opposite walls of the tank. The feed remains in each feeding tray were collected and weighted to calculate the dry feed remains. The weekly growth rate of shrimp fed on S25 (0.89 ± 0.03 g) was not significantly different from those fed on C25 (0.89 ± 0.01 g). The attractiveness experiment showed that S25 was preferred significantly more by shrimp than C25. In conclusion, Spirulina meal added at 0.5% in a complete diet for L. vannamei juveniles, with 14% of Peruvian fishmeal, has proved itself as a nutritionally efficient feeding attractant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirulina is free-floating filamentous microalgae growing in alkaline water bodies. With its high nutritional value, Spirulina has been consumed as food for centuries in Central Africa. It is now widely used as nutraceutical food supplement worldwide. Recently, great attention and extensive studies have been devoted to evaluate its therapeutic benefits on an array of diseased conditions including hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycerolemia, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory diseases, cancer, and viral infections. The cardiovascular benefits of Spirulina are primarily resulted from its hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and antiinflammatory activities. Data from preclinical studies with various animal models consistently demonstrate the hypolipidemic activity of Spirulina. Although differences in study design, sample size, and patient conditions resulting in minor inconsistency in response to Spirulina supplementation, the findings from human clinical trials are largely consistent with the hypolipidemic effects of Spirulina observed in the preclinical studies. However, most of the human clinical trials are suffered with limited sample size and some with poor experimental design. The antioxidant and/or antiinflammatory activities of Spirulina were demonstrated in a large number of preclinical studies. However, a limited number of clinical trials have been carried out so far to confirm such activities in human. Currently, our understanding on the underlying mechanisms for Spirulina's activities, especially the hypolipidemic effect, is limited. Spirulina is generally considered safe for human consumption supported by its long history of use as food source and its favorable safety profile in animal studies. However, rare cases of side-effects in human have been reported. Quality control in the growth and process of Spirulina to avoid contamination is mandatory to guarantee the safety of Spirulina products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]