Search

Unlike lipid stability and oxidation studies in commonly used edible oils and margarines, margarines formulated with unconventional oils are not well characterized. This study investigated the effect of heat treatment (HT) on the stability and content of phytosterol in njangsa seed oil (NSO), bush mango oil (BMO), soybean oil (SBO), coconut oil (CCO), and margarines formulated from their blends: BN (BMO and NSO), BS (BMO and SBO), CN (CCO and NSO), CS (CCO and SBO), and commercial margarines (CM1 and CM2). Both oils and margarines were heat‐treated at 130, 170, and 210°C for 10, 15, 20, and 120 min (only oils). Changes in free fatty acid (FFA), peroxide value (PV), para‐anisidine value (AnV), and fatty acid (FA) composition and phytosterol content were determined after 20 min (margarines) and 120 min (oils) of HT and compared to their control/pre‐HT/unheated (UH) counterparts. The FA composition did not change significantly with HT. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA)‐rich oils such as NSO and SBO showed significantly higher increase in FFA content with HT compared with oils with higher saturated fatty acid content (BMO and CCO). Oils with higher proportions of linoleic acid, such as SBO (68.3%) and NSO (60.35%), had higher AnV at the end of the HT compared with oils with lower content, such as BMO (0.51%). Phytosterol content fluctuated with HT, and changes in content were generally more pronounced in β‐sitosterol than in stigmasterol and campesterol. Both principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least‐squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) were carried out to observe possible clusters. The results suggest that changes in quality and content of oils and margarines during heating are dependent on more than their fatty acid composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Neuroinflammation can be triggered by a high‐fat/high‐fructose diet (HFFD), and CD36 may be an underlying mechanism. Lauric acid (LA), the major fatty acid in coconut oil, and resveratrol, the plant‐based polyphenolic compound, may exert anti‐inflammatory effects. Therefore, this study investigated the possible effects of LA and resveratrol on diet‐induced neuroinflammation and CD36. Healthy male C57BL/6 mice (8 weeks of age, n = 31) were fed a control diet (10%kcal fat) or diets containing high fat (60%kcal fat) and fructose (5% w/v fructose drinking water) for 6 weeks, ad libitum. Supplemented to the HFFD, mice daily received resveratrol (7.5 mg/kg) (HFFD‐RSV) or LA (750 mg/kg) (HFFD‐LA). At the end of the study, HFFD resulted in anxiety‐like behavior, reduced locomotor activity, neuroinflammation (increased brain GFAP, IL‐6, MCP‐1, IFN‐γ, TNF‐α), and systemic inflammation (increased plasma GFAP, IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, IL‐12p70, reduced plasma IL‐10). HFFD‐RSV and HFFD‐LA alleviated HFFD‐induced anxiety‐like behavior, neuroinflammation, and systemic inflammation. HFFD‐LA improved memory. Brain and plasma CD36 levels were increased by HFFD and reduced by HFFD‐RSV or HFFD‐LA. Dietary resveratrol and LA intake may alleviate HFFD‐induced neuroinflammation, systemic inflammation, and anxiety‐like behavior and improve memory, as CD36 may be an underlying mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Acute liver failure (ALF) is a critical condition characterized by rapid liver dysfunction, leading to high mortality rates. Current treatments are limited, primarily supportive, and often require liver transplantation. This study investigates the potential of a novel nanoparticle formulation of glutathione (GSH) and virgin coconut oil (VCO) alone and in combination to enhance therapeutic outcomes in a rat model of ALF induced by orogastric carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Methods: The study employed adult male Albino rats divided into ten groups, with ALF induced via a single oral dose of CCl4. Various treatment regimens were administered over seven days, including conventional and nanoparticle forms of GSH and VCO and their combinations. The efficacy of treatments was evaluated through biochemical analysis of liver function markers, oxidative stress indicators, inflammatory biomarkers, and histopathological examinations. Nanoparticles were synthesized using established methods, and characterization techniques were employed to ensure their quality and properties. Results: The nanoparticle formulations significantly improved liver function, as indicated by reduced serum levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, alongside decreased oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde. Furthermore, they reduced tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-1 beta inflammatory markers. Histological analysis revealed reduced hepatocellular necrosis and inflammation in treated groups compared to controls. Also, decreased nuclear factor-kappa B was detected by immunohistochemical analysis. Conclusion: The findings show that the nanoparticle mixture of GSH and VCO effectively reduces liver damage in ALF. This suggests a promising drug-based approach for improving liver regeneration and protection. This innovative strategy may pave the way for new therapeutic interventions in the management of ALF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of coconut oil extract (COE) in broilers experimentally infected with velogenic Newcastle disease virus (vNDV). Methods: A total of 150 broiler birds (day-old) were equally divided into five study groups i.e., negative control, positive control, COE-1, COE-2, and COE-3. On day 10, broilers of groups COE-1, COE-2, and COE-3 were supplemented with 1, 2, and 3 mL of COE respectively per liter of drinking water for 15 days. On day 13, 0.1 mL/bird (10–5.25 ELD50) of vNDV was inoculated in broilers of positive control, COE-1, COE-2, and COE-3 groups intramuscularly. During this study, growth performance, morbidity, and mortality rates of each study group were recorded. The antibody titer against NDV was determined on days 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35. The levels of immunoglobulins (IgY and IgM) were also determined on the 7th, 14th, and 21st days post-sheep red blood cells (SRBCs) inoculation. On day 33, avian tuberculin was injected between the 1st and 2nd toes of the left side (intradermally) to measure lymphoproliferative responses. On day 35, the phagocytic activity in the blood was assessed through a carbon clearance assay by injecting carbon black ink into the right-wing vein. The visceral organs having gross lesions were also collected for histopathology. Results: The COE significantly improved the growth performance, and lowered the morbidity and mortality rates of broilers. There was a significant rise in antibody titers against NDV and levels of IgY and IgM antibodies against SRBC in COE-supplemented broilers. The lymphoproliferative response and phagocytic activity were also enhanced. Among COEsupplemented groups, the broilers of the COE-3 group showed a significant increase in growth performance and boosted immune defense. Conclusion: Coconut oil extract has the potential to boost the growth performance and immune status of broilers. It can be used effectively as a feed additive and alternative to antibiotics to prevent the spread of infectious poultry pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document discusses the importance of heat treatment in modifying the microstructure of metals to achieve desired properties. It highlights research papers on various heat treatment methods and their effects on different alloys, including bearings, martensitic stainless steel, electrical steels, and high resistance steel. The studies focus on optimizing heat treatment parameters to enhance mechanical and magnetic properties, with implications for industrial applications. The document also presents a method for manufacturing low-cost heat pipes with specific properties and geometry using basic tools and 3D printers. [Extracted from the article]

The bioaccessibility of phytochemicals is an important factor for new functional food design. The interaction of white mugwort extract (FE) and food ingredients (coconut oil, egg white albumen, brown rice powder, inulin, and mixtures thereof) was determined after in vitro digestion to inform the development of a functional soup for an aging population. Coconut oil exerted a protective effect on polyphenols, showing the highest bioaccessibility (62.9%) and antioxidant activity after intestinal digestion (DPPH 12.38 mg GAE/g DW, FRAP 0.88 mol Fe(ll)/g DW). In contrast, egg white albumen had the most significant negative effect on the polyphenol stability, resulting in the lowest bioaccessibility (12.49%). Moreover, FE promoted the emulsion stability and delayed starch digestion by inhibiting amylase activity via non-specific polyphenol–protein interactions, resulting in a decrease in the total reducing sugars (TRS) released during digestion. It also limited the protein digestion, probably due to the complex formation of polyphenols and proteins, consequently reducing the bioaccessibility of both amino acids and polyphenols. These findings provide useful information for designing functional food products that could promote the bioaccessibility and bioactivity of natural extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tropical oils such as palm and coconut oils are renowned for their high saturated fat content and culinary versatility. However, their consumption has sparked debate regarding their health benefits and production concerns. The purpose of this review was to map existing evidence on the health benefits and challenges associated with the consumption of tropical oils. Method: The recommendations for conducting a scoping review by Arksey and O'Malley were followed. PubMed, Dimensions AI, Central, JSTOR Google, Google Scholar, and ProQuest databases were searched for relevant papers. The predetermined keywords used were Consumption" AND "Tropical oil," as well as "Health benefits" OR "Health challenges" AND "Tropical Countries." Peer-reviewed and grey literature published in English were eligible for this review. Result: Tropical oils, such as palm and coconut oils, provide health benefits including essential vitamins (A and E) that enhance ocular health, boost immunity, and support growth. They are also recognised for their role in managing high blood sugar, obesity, and cholesterol levels, while offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These oils have wound-healing abilities and are commonly used in infant nutrition and traditional cooking. Nevertheless, prolonged and repeated use of tropical oils to high temperature can degrade vitamin E, whereas excessive intake may result in overdose. Health concerns include oxidative risks, diabetes, cancer, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, and acrylamide formation due to production challenges excessive consumption. Additional issues include obesity, suboptimal oil production, misconceptions, regulatory obstacles, and preferences for alternative fats. Conclusion: This review suggest that tropical oils provide essential health benefits, including vitamins and antioxidant properties, but pose significant health risks and production challenges, particularly when exposed to high temperatures and through excessive intake. Guidelines on the consumption of tropical oils in the tropical regions are necessary to regulate their consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae) are among the most damaging pests for crops, due to the direct damage they cause and their ability to transmit viral diseases. Direct control of viral diseases is not possible, and hence, it is necessary to avoid the arrival of vectors to the crop. The objective of this study is to test whether spraying nanoemulsions of botanical products repel winged individuals of Myzus persicae (Sulzer) in a bioassay in culture chambers. Some of the bioactive volatiles tested, such as farnesol (similar to the aphid alarm pheromone), (E)-anethole (the major compound in anise and fennel essential oils) and a compound derived from coconut oil, have shown repellent effects both individually and in blends. This is valuable information for further research. Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is one of the most important aphid crop pests, due to its direct damage and its ability to transmit viral diseases in crops. The objective is to test whether spraying nanoemulsions of botanical products repels winged individuals of M. persicae in a bioassay in culture chambers. The bioactive volatiles were applied on pepper plants at a dose of 0.2% alone or at 0.1% of each component in blends. A treated plant and a control plant were placed at each side of an entomological cage inside a growth chamber. The winged individuals were released between the plants, in a black-painted Petri dish suspended by wires in the upper half of the cage. The most repellent products were farnesol (repellency index, RI = 40.24%), (E)-anethole (RI = 30.85%) and coconut fatty acid methyl ester (coconut FAME) (RI = 28.93%), alone or in the following blends: farnesol + (E)-anethole + distilled lemon oil (RI = 36.55%) or (E)-anethole + distilled lemon oil + coconut FAME (RI = 30.63%). The observed effect of coconut FAME on aphids is the first report of this product having a repellent effect on a crop pest. Repellent substances for viral disease vectors should be further investigated to develop new strategies for plant protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to optimize the preparation of multiple oil–water–oil (O/W/O) emulsions using varying amounts of Tween 20 emulsifier, different homogenization methods, and optimal preparation temperatures as carriers for encapsulated curcumin. Following the optimization process, the optimal preparation temperature was found to be 25 °C, with a homogenization speed of 10,000 RPM and an emulsifier concentration of 0.5% Tween 20. Subsequently, the effects of physicochemical and viscoelastic properties on the different types of oils used in the outer phase, as well as the impact of storage time, were monitored. The novelty of this work lies in its comprehensive analysis of the stability and encapsulation efficiency of multiple emulsions using various oils, an area that has not been extensively explored before. After identifying the optimal preparation procedure, all samples with different edible oils demonstrated excellent stability and encapsulation efficiency, showing minimal variation in results. The most stable multiple emulsion was found to be the one with coconut oil in the outer phase, exhibiting half the particle size compared to other samples and the lowest encapsulation efficiency losses over 50 days of storage. This study provides new insights into the formulation of stable multiple emulsions for the effective delivery of curcumin and similar bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To satisfy the ever-increasing share of consumers who are lactose intolerant, vegan or require foods with less simple sugars, chocolate companies are constantly looking for new formulations. In the present research, the nutritional and sensory profile of two novel chocolates was evaluated. In the first, milk powder was replaced by coconut copra, almond and isolated soy protein, and in the second dark chocolate-based, sucrose was replaced by coconut sugars, stevia and erythritol, resulting in a reduction in calorific value of about 8%. The substitution of milk powder with vegetal ingredients affected the chocolate mineral profile, with high iron and copper concentrations and less potassium, calcium and phosphorus. The vegan samples showed the presence of medium-chain fatty acids from coconut oil, mainly lauric acid. Esters, the group responsible for the fruity aroma, represented mainly by benzaldehyde, furfural and vanillin, were prevalent in the vegan sample. The novel chocolate without added sucrose provides approximately 2182.6 kJ/hg registering a reduction in caloric value of more than 8% compared to the standard sample. In addition, the presence of coconut sugar, with its low glycaemic index (35), made the novel chocolate healthier than plain sucrose-containing dark chocolate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study focuses on Candida albicans, a significant fungal pathogen in humans, particularly affecting immunocompromised individuals and developing resistance to commonly used antifungal drugs. To address this challenge, the research assessed the in-vitro anti-candida properties of cold-pressed coconut oil. Additionally, the study conducted an in-silico evaluation of the oil's bioactive compounds against candidapepsin-2, an enzyme crucial in the virulence and pathogenesis of Candida infections. Materials and Methods: Extracted coconut oil was tested for its sterility and evaluated for its antifungal activity in-vitro using the agar well-diffusion methods with fluconazole as a positive control. Growth kinetics assay and synergism activity with fluconazole were also assessed. The coconut oil was quantitatively screened for its bioactive compounds using gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrophotometer (GC-MS) and the resulting bioactive compounds were assessed for absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) properties using the SWISSADME tool. Compounds that met Lipinski's rule of five (ROF) were subjected to molecular docking against candidapepsin-2 using the Biovia (Discovery) docking tool. Results: The test isolates exhibited zones of inhibition ranging from 47–76 mm to the extract (100%) compared to 12–42 mm exhibited against fluconazole (400 mg) and 2–3 mm in plates containing only agar with MICs and MFCs ranging from 1.57–6.25% and 3.13 −12.5% against the extract compared to the control drug where MICs and MFCs of 6.25–12.5% and 12.5–25.0% were observed, respectively. The coconut extract exerted a concentration-dependent effect on the test isolates over time as higher extract concentrations decreased the optical density of cells to 0.001–0.06 at 72 h of incubation. Equal proportions of the extract + fluconazole exerted greater inhibitory potentials on the test isolates compared with those of low extract proportions. The synergistic-antagonistic antifungal assay showed enhanced sensitivity of the resistant isolates. Of the eleven (11) bioactive compounds quantitatively screened, only nine (9) met Lipinski's ROF and also returned favourable pharmacokinetics comparable to fluconazole. Docking scores for the bioactive compounds ranged from −2.0 to −3.0 kcal/mol. The most recurring amino acid residues following molecular docking were ILE and THR. Conclusion: The bioactive compounds showed desirable activities in-vitro, especially in synergy with fluconazole against the drug-resistant Candida species and in-silico and thus, require further studies to validate their potential use in the management of Candida -related infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interesterification process allows structured lipids (SLs) to be obtained with a modified triacylglycerol (TAG) structure, in which the unfavorable saturated fatty acids (SFAs) are replaced with nutritionally significant fatty acids (FAs) such as monounsaturated (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated (PUFAs). Oxidative stability is crucial for the quality of SLs. This study aimed to characterize and evaluate the FA profile and oxidative stability of SLs synthesized by the enzymatic interesterification of hemp seed oil (HO) and coconut oil (CO) blends. Blends were prepared in three ratios (75% HO:25% CO, 50% HO:50% CO, and 25% HO:75% CO) and interesterified using sn-1,3 regiospecific lipase for 2 or 6 h. FA composition, the FA distribution of TAGs, acid value (AV), peroxide value (PV), and oxidation time were analyzed and compared to non-interesterified blends. Results showed no significant difference in the SFA:MUFA ratios between interesterified and non-interesterified blends with the same proportions. Lauric acid predominantly occupied the sn-2 position in all blends. Interesterified blends had higher AVs, exceeding codex standards, while PVs remained within the acceptable limits. Blends with 75% HO had lower oxidation times compared to those with 75% CO, with no significant difference between interesterified and non-interesterified blends. In the interesterification process of the studied blends, new TAGs with a modified structure were created, which may affect their physical and nutritional properties. This process also had a significant effect on the AV and PV levels, but not on the oxidation time of the modified blends. Therefore, it is necessary to remove free FAs after the enzymatic process to produce SLs characterized by improved hydrolytic stability. This will lead to better technological properties compared to the original oils. Further research is also necessary to enhance the oxidation stability of SLs obtained from blends of CO and HO to improve their storage stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Tropical oils such as palm and coconut oils are renowned for their high saturated fat content and culinary versatility. However, their consumption has sparked debate regarding their health benefits and production concerns. The purpose of this review was to map existing evidence on the health benefits and challenges associated with the consumption of tropical oils. Method The recommendations for conducting a scoping review by Arksey and O’Malley were followed. PubMed, Dimensions AI, Central, JSTOR Google, Google Scholar, and ProQuest databases were searched for relevant papers. The predetermined keywords used were Consumption” AND “Tropical oil,” as well as “Health benefits” OR “Health challenges” AND “Tropical Countries.” Peer-reviewed and grey literature published in English were eligible for this review. Result Tropical oils, such as palm and coconut oils, provide health benefits including essential vitamins (A and E) that enhance ocular health, boost immunity, and support growth. They are also recognised for their role in managing high blood sugar, obesity, and cholesterol levels, while offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These oils have wound-healing abilities and are commonly used in infant nutrition and traditional cooking. Nevertheless, prolonged and repeated use of tropical oils to high temperature can degrade vitamin E, whereas excessive intake may result in overdose. Health concerns include oxidative risks, diabetes, cancer, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, and acrylamide formation due to production challenges excessive consumption. Additional issues include obesity, suboptimal oil production, misconceptions, regulatory obstacles, and preferences for alternative fats. Conclusion This review suggest that tropical oils provide essential health benefits, including vitamins and antioxidant properties, but pose significant health risks and production challenges, particularly when exposed to high temperatures and through excessive intake. Guidelines on the consumption of tropical oils in the tropical regions are necessary to regulate their consumption.

Tamer M Shehata,1,2 Bandar Aldhubiab,1 Heba S Elsewedy3 1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Alhofuf, Al-Ahsa, 36362, Saudi Arabia; 2Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt; 3Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh, 11597, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Heba S Elsewedy; Tamer M Shehata, Email hsewedy@um.edu.sa; tshehata@kfu.edu.saBackground: Monitoring noncommunicable diseases is regarded as a critical concern that has to be managed in order to avoid a wide variety of complications such as increasing blood lipid levels known as dyslipidemia. Statin drugs, mostly, Rosuvastatin (RSV) was investigated for its effectiveness in treating dyslipidemia. However, reaching the most efficient treatment is essential and improving the effect of RSV is crucial. Therefore, a combination therapy was a good approach for achieving significant benefit. Although RSV is hydrophobic, which would affect its absorption and bioavailability following oral administration, overcoming this obstacle was important.Purpose: To that end, the purpose of the present investigation was to incorporate RSV into certain lipid-based nanocarriers, namely, nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) prepared with virgin coconut oil (CCO).Methods: The optimized RSV-NLC formula was selected, characterized and examined for its in vitro, kinetic, and stability profiles. Eventually, the formula was investigated for its in vivo hypolipidemic action.Results: The optimized NLC formulation showed a suitable particle size (279.3± 5.03 nm) with PDI 0.237 and displayed good entrapment efficiency (75.6± 1.9%). Regarding in vitro release, it was efficiently prolonged for 24 h providing 93.7± 1.47%. The optimized formula was established to be stable after 3 months storage at two different conditions; 4°C and 25°C. Importantly, including CCO in the development of RSV-NLC could impressively enhance lowering total cholesterol level in obese rat models, which endorse the potential synergistic action between RSV and CCO.Conclusion: The study could elucidate the impact of developing NLC using CCO for improving RSV anti-hyperlipidemic activity.Keywords: Rosuvastatin, natural compounds, coconut oil, nanostructured lipid carrier, optimization, hypolipidemic activity

Biodiesel, a renewable fuel for diesel vehicle engines, has been commonly produced from transesterification process involving triglycerides from vegetable oil with alcohol. One of the most promising candidates for vegetable oil due to its abundance in Indonesia is coconut oil. However, the short carbon chain present in coconut oil necessitates the use of longer-chain alcohol types to adjust to the biodiesel carbon chain, such as isopropanol. Therefore, this research focused on producing biodiesel (isopropyl ester) from coconut oil using isopropanol and NaOH catalyst through a transesterification process. To enhance this process, microwave technology was utilized for its ability to lower the biodiesel production reaction time from the conventional one-hour timeframe to less than ten minutes, increase energy efficiency, and improve biodiesel quality. The primary objective was to investigate the impact of reaction time, catalyst concentration, and microwave power on the isopropyl ester yield. Further optimization was conducted using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with Box-Behnken Design (BBD) to illustrate the model's effectiveness and applicability. Based on BBD optimization simulation, the optimal condition for producing isopropyl ester from coconut oil using microwave technology is a 1-minute reaction time, 0.2 wt.% NaOH catalyst concentration, and 443.9 W microwave power, maximizing the yield to 99.89%. This research highlights the potential of microwave assisted transesterification and the reliability of this innovative approach, contributing to the development of isopropyl ester production with enhanced quality that meets the specifications of the Indonesian National Standard (SNI).

The effects of the dry processing of coconut oil on the amino acid composition, molecular weight, secondary structure, solubility, surface hydrophobicity, microstructure, total sulfhydryl and free sulfhydryl content, free amino acid content, thermal properties, and water-holding, oil-holding, foaming, and emulsifying properties of coconut isolate protein were investigated. The results showed that the dry processing altered the amino acid composition of coconut isolate proteins as well as resulted in fewer irregular structural regions and more homogeneous particle sizes, leading to an improvement in the thermal stability of the proteins. SDS-PAGE analysis showed that globular proteins located at ~34 kDa in coconut isolate proteins underwent slight degradation during the dry processing of coconut oil. The dry processing reduced the surface hydrophobicity, total and free sulfhydryl groups, solubility, and free amino acid content of coconut isolate proteins. In addition, the water-holding capacity, oil-holding capacity, and foam stability of coconut isolate proteins were improved to different degrees after the dry processing. Therefore, the development and utilization of copra meal protein is of great significance to increase its added value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the types of fatty acids in the liver tissue of mice were evaluated under different diets. As a result, mice fed with a high-fat diet-including basic pellets mixed with eight percent (w/w) peanut oil, two percent (w/w) cholesterol, and 0.1% (w/w) calcium carbonate-showed the highest cholesterol content (1.5 ± 0.08 mg/100 g) compared to normal mice (0.23 ± 0.04 mg/100 g). Whereas the cholesterol content in the liver tissue of mice fed with basic pellets and orally treated with a free fatty acid fraction (FFA1) from virgin coconut oil, which was made up of the C8:0-C12:0 fraction (97.3%) was prepared did not differ from the control group (using only standard pellets). This demonstrated that MCFA (C8:0-C12:0) was directly consumed and converted to energy without accumulating cholesterol. The gas chromatography analysis result showed that the fat droplets in the liver tissues of treated mice were mostly saturated long-chain fatty acids (LCFA), in which C16:0 and C18:0 carbon chain length fatty acids were predominant in the liver tissue. The results confirmed the hypothesis that MCFA is preferentially absorbed and converted to energy while saturated LCFA has a tendency to induce fat accumulation in the metabolic pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article deals with the effect of adding coconut oil to the diet of heavy pigs on the concentration of fatty acids in leg meat, back fat, and liver. Lauric acid has several positive effects on the consumer. However, the concentration of this fatty acid in pig meat is very low or absent. Coconut oil, which contains a high concentration of lauric acid, was added to the pigs' diet (30 g per head per day) for 18 days before slaughtering. This dietary intervention increased the concentration of lauric acid in leg meat and back fat but had no effect on the lauric acid concentration in pig liver. Concentrations of margaric and arachidic acids in leg meat, oleic, arachidic, and sum of monounsaturated fatty acids in back fat, palmitoleic and sum of saturated fatty acids in pig liver were affected by the addition of coconut oil to the diet of pigs. The monounsaturation index C18:1/C18:0 in leg meat was higher in the coconut oil group. The intake of small amounts of coconut oil affected the concentration of some fatty acids and increased the concentration of lauric acid in the leg meat and back fat of pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low cost and excellent catalytic properties of lipase for industrial processes are highly desirable. A promising new approach involves the support modification of lipase and spacer arm, which enables the enhancement of lipase properties. This study investigates the immobilization of crude lipase from Mucor miehei onto a Polyurethane Foam (PUF) surface using various coating techniques. The PUF matrix was obtained through isocyanate and polyol reactions. Subsequently, the PUF was coated by adsorbing lipase and adding edible support material. The immobilized lipase was then utilized in the hydrolysis of coconut oil to produce fatty acids. Furthermore, the immobilized enzyme was employed in the esterification of fatty acids to produce bio-flavors. The results demonstrate that the attachment reaction using support material, namely lecithin, gelatin, MgCl2, and Polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG), all of which are simple and edible, was able to enhance the stability and reusability of lipase. This immobilization technique increased triglyceride hydrolysis into FFA by 422%. The successful edible support modification of immobilized lipase from M. miehei on PUF, coupled with significantly enhanced enzyme stability and catalytic activity, offers a promising, environmentally friendly solution for diverse applications in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A protein mixture was prepared using a blend of soybean protein isolate, soybean protein concentrate, and wheat protein through high-moisture extrusion. This study investigated the effects of soybean oil/coconut oil additions (2%, 5%, and 8%) on the physiochemical properties of a soy protein–wheat protein mixture subjected to high-moisture extrusion. The protein extrudates underwent assessment for textural properties, fiber degree, sensory evaluation, microstructure, protein solubility, and protein secondary structure. The findings indicated that plant oils significantly reduced the hardness, springiness, and chewiness of the extrudates, and 5% plant oil significantly increased the fiber degree of the extrudates. In addition, the highest fiber degree and sensory evaluation score were achieved with 5% coconut oil. Observation of the macro- and microstructure indicated that the presence of unsaturated fatty acids in soybean oil did not benefit the improvement of the fibrous structure of protein extrudates during high-moisture extrusion processing. SDS-PAGE and FTIR results revealed that coconut oil, rich in saturated fatty acids, caused the clustering of medium- and low-molecular-weight subunits in texturized protein. Additionally, coconut oil elevated the ratio of 11S protein subunits containing sulfur-based amino acids and facilitated a shift from β-turn to β-sheet. The inclusion of plant oils increased the development of hydrogen and disulfide bonds, resulting in a denser, fibrous structure. DSC demonstrated that plant oils reduced the thermal stability of the texturized proteins but enhanced the order of protein structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-poisoning with p-phenylenediamine (PPD) is a common method in individuals experiencing social or economic stress. The current study was planned to determine various physiological effects of the poison and to identify an effective antidote against PPD toxicity. The hemato-biochemical profile along with histo-pathological examination of kidneys, brain, heart and lungs were conducted in the adult male albino rats (n=25) supplemented with methylene blue, coconut and olive oils post- PPD toxicity. A significant (p<0.05) decrease in the hematological parameters except a significant (p<0.05) increase in the leukocyte count was observed in the animals injected only with PPD (30mg/kg BW) compared to the control negative group. The animals supplemented with methylene blue, olive, or coconut oils post-PPD injection showed a significant (p<0.05) amelioration in the hematological parameters compared to the PPD-only control group. PPD toxicity significantly (p<0.01) increased the hepatic (ALT, AST, bilirubin) and renal (urea, creatinine) markers and level of CK-MB compared to the control negative group. The supplementation of animals with methylene blue, coconut and olive oils showed protective effects by significantly (p<0.05) decreasing the levels of hepatic and renal markers and CK-MB along with improvement in the histo-architecture of the heart, kidneys, lungs and brain. The animals supplemented with olive oil showed better results, since it has been found to partially reverse the effects of PPD toxicity compared to methylene blue and coconut oil and thus, could be used as a possible anti-dote against PPD toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the therapeutic potential of an herbal-based topical cream for treating psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition that detrimentally affects patients' quality of life. The 8-week longitudinal cohort study evaluated the efficacy of a novel herbal topical cream, formulated with coconut oil, sesame oil, clove oil, mangosteen peel, turmeric rhizome, licorice root, and other plant extracts in 49 patients with psoriasis. Disease severity was quantified using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) at baseline, and at the 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 8th weeks. Additional assessments, including the Psoriasis Disability Index (PDI) and Dermatology Life Quality Index 0DLQI) were performed before and after the treatment period. PASI scores were analyzed using the Friedman test for repeated measures and pairwise Wilcoxon signed-rank test at a significance level of 0.05. Results demonstrated significant psoriasis remission, with noticeable efficacy observed by week 4 and sustained improvements throughout the 8-week trial (p<0.05). Likewise, participants reported improved wellbeing, as indicated by reduced PDI and DLQI scores across all aspects. These findings suggest that the formulated herbal cream provides a novel topical therapeutic option for psoriasis, whether as an alternative or adjuvant treatment, enhancing both disease severity and patient quality of life. Therefore, this herbal topical cream represents a viable and safe option for psoriasis management, potentially providing an effective alternative or adjunct to conventional therapies such as steroid creams and coal tar ointments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toothpaste containing sulfate is one major concern as it is known as irritating and causes adverse effects in the oral cavity. Hence, a sulfate-free toothpaste is much more preferred nowadays. This research paper discusses on three sulfate-free toothpaste formulations that were prepared and optimized containing two types of charcoal namely activated coconut shell charcoal and rice husk charcoal. The formulations differ in the binding agents and surfactants used and they are evaluated based on 13 physiochemical characterizations including organoleptic properties, pH, foamability, spread ability, tube extrudability, moisture content, FTIR spectroscopy, cleaning test, toxicity assay, stability, abrasiveness, grittiness and morphological evaluation. One commercial toothpaste was also included in the test to be used as comparison. The objectives of this research are to prepare and optimize sulfate-free toothpaste formulations with natural charcoal from coconut shell and rice husk, evaluate the toothpaste formulations for physiochemical characterization, stability, toxicity and their effectiveness (cleaning test). Menthol crystals were dissolved in Propanediol and rice husk charcoal were grinded with mortar and pestle. All solid ingredients (including activated coconut shell charcoal, carrageenan, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and Sangelose) were then mixed together with a small amount of distilled water. After transferring to a white tile, liquid ingredients were added to the solid mixtures and mixed thoroughly using spatulas. The liquid ingredients included were dissolved menthol, liquid surfactants (including decyl glucoside (DG) and Tween-80 (T-80), glycerin, triethanolamine and coconut oil. Finally, distilled water was added gradually until a paste consistency was formed. Three toothpaste formulations have been developed namely F1, F2 and F3 of which varied in the binding agent and surfactant used. All toothpaste formulations showed results similar to commercial toothpaste in terms of appearance, odour, smoothness, tube extrudability, cleaning test and grittiness. F1 have the highest basic pH (9.78) and highest foamability (14 mL) among the toothpaste formulations. However, F1 have the lowest germination index (48.1%) indicating that it is most toxic than the others including the commercial toothpaste. In conclusion, all three toothpaste formulations were able to achieve the desired and acceptable characteristics with the physiochemical characterization. This study might provide good scope and be useful for further research as being a sulfate-free toothpaste that uses renewable waste activated coconut shell charcoal and rice husk charcoal as the abrasive ingredients and is capable of improving and maintaining oral hygiene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcumin is a hydrophobic compound with excellent antibacterial and antioxidative properties but it exhibits poor bioavailability which limits its therapeutic value. Nano emulsion (NE) is a modern drug delivery system that can accommodate the poor bioavailability and solubility of hydrophobic curcumin. The objective of this study was to formulate curcumin-based polyherbal NE mouthwash (Cur-polyherbal NE) and evaluate the antioxidant and cytotoxic properties. The NE formulations were prepared using glyceryl monooleate (GMO), Pluronic® F-127, virgin coconut oil (VCO) and distilled water. Physiochemical characterisation of Cur-polyherbal NE was performed based on FTIR and dynamic light scattering analyses, and their stability at different temperatures was also determined. The antioxidant activity of formulations was evaluated using DPPH scavenging assay, and their in-vitro cytotoxicity was investigated on HEK293 cells. This study demonstrates that the antioxidant activity of Cur-polyherbal NE formulation was superior compared to corresponding non-NE formulation (p < 0.05). In-vitro cytotoxicity performed on HEK293 cells revealed better % cell viability in dose-dependent manner. The promising antioxidant activity and non-toxicity on HEK293 cells of Cur-polyherbal NE may suggest its potential use as safer mouthwash alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic required great efforts to develop efficient vaccines in a short period of time. However, innovative vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 virus are needed to achieve broad immune protection against variants of concern. Polymeric-based particles can lead to innovative vaccines, serving as stable, safe and immunostimulatory antigen delivery systems. In this work, polymeric-based particles called thiolated PAA/Schizo were developed. Poly (acrylic acid) (PAA) was thiolated with cysteine ethyl ester and crosslinked with a Schizochytrium sp. cell wall fraction under an inverse emulsion approach. Particles showed a hydrodynamic diameter of 313 ± 38 nm and negative Zeta potential. FT-IR spectra indicated the presence of coconut oil in thiolated PAA/Schizo particles, which, along with the microalgae, could contribute to their biocompatibility and bioactive properties. TGA analysis suggested strong interactions between the thiolated PAA/Schizo components. In vitro assessment revealed that thiolated particles have a higher mucoadhesiveness when compared with non-thiolated particles. Cell-based assays revealed that thiolated particles are not cytotoxic and, importantly, increase TNF-α secretion in murine dendritic cells. Moreover, immunization assays revealed that thiolated PAA/Schizo particles induced a humoral response with a more balanced IgG2a/IgG1 ratio. Therefore, thiolated PAA/Schizo particles are deemed a promising delivery system whose evaluation in vaccine prototypes is guaranteed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diversion colitis (DC) is characterized by mucosal inflammation in the defunctioned segment of the colon following a colostomy or ileostomy. The major causes of DC are an increase in the number of aerobic bacteria, a lack of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and immune disorders in the diverted colon. However, its exact pathogenesis remains unknown. Various treatment strategies for DC have been explored, although none have been definitively established. Treatment approaches such as SCFAs, 5-aminosalicylic acid enemas, steroid enemas, and irrigation with fibers have been attempted, yielding various degrees of efficacies in mitigating mucosal inflammation. However, only individual case reports demonstrating the limited effect of the following therapies have been published: leukocytapheresis, dextrose (hypertonic glucose) spray, infliximab, an elemental diet, and coconut oil. The usefulness of probiotics for treating DC has recently been reported. Furthermore, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has emerged as a promising treatment for DC. This review provides an update on the treatment strategies of DC, with a particular focus on FMT and its relationship with the intestinal microbiota. FMT may become the first choice of treatment for some patients in the future because of its low medical costs, ease of use, and minimal side effects. Furthermore, FMT can also be used for postoperative DC prophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Biologica Slovenica is the property of Drustvo Biologov Slovenije and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Traditional Indian literature have evidenced the usage of Oak gall and Triphala for common ailments to oral malignancies and other lifestyle disorders. The objective of the study is to examine the antioxidant activity of oak gall oil (OGO) & Triphala oil (TPO). Oak gall oil (OGO)) and Triphala oil (TPO) were produced with purified oil from coconut in a proportion of 1:5, with one portion of gall of Oak / Triphala added to five parts of the oil of coconut. Oak gall & Triphala oil were evaluated for antioxidant capabilities using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, the Hydroxyl radical scavenging activity and the Nitric oxide radical scavenge action. In the DPPH experiment, ascorbic acid served as the comparison standard, while gallic acid was utilized to measure nitric oxide activity in reducing radicals and the hydroxyl radical scavenge activity. The percentage inhibition of Oak gall oil (OGO) & Triphala oil (TPO) was 75.2%, and 67.4% for DPPH assay,48.4% and 63.3% for Hydroxyl radical scavenging assay, 51.2% and 52.7% for Nitric oxide radical scavenging assay respectively with ascorbic acid (89.1%) and Gallic acid standard (62.9% and 70.4%) used as comparative respectively. The study results show that Oak gall oil (OGO)and Triphala oil (TPO) possess antioxidant properties comparable to reference standards. Products derived from native plants, such as oak gall & Triphala, if proven to be effective in-vivo, can serve as a simple, safe, cost-effective and culturally acceptable adjuvant in anticancer management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling or reducing the adsorption of surfactants on reservoir rock surfaces has been a challenging task in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) methods, as it directly affects the cost-effectiveness of the projects. The adsorption of surfactants on rock surfaces can modify their hydrophobicity, surface charge, and other important parameters that govern EOR processes, such as reducing the interfacial tension between water and oil and increasing permeability. Therefore, understanding the adsorption mechanism on rocks is essential for developing alternatives that improve the effectiveness of these processes. In this work, the adsorption of surfactants on carbonate materials was evaluated considering variations in temperature, contact time, and surfactant concentration. The surfactants used were derived from vegetable oils, aiming for a sustainable approach: saponified coconut oil (SCO), saponified babassu coconut oil (SBCO), and saponified castor oil (SMO). The finite bath method was used, resulting in adsorption efficiencies of 85.74%, 82.52%, and 45.30% for SCO, SBCO, and SMO, respectively. The Sips isotherm and the pseudo-second-order model were found to be suitable for characterizing these systems. The simulation of SCO adsorption isotherms on limestone by the Langmuir model was more accurate than that using the Freundlich model. The limestone showed a negative surface charge of approximately −35.0 mV at pH 6.5; this negative charge varied over a wide pH range. These zeta potential data for the samples confirmed that hydrophobic interactions played an important role in the adsorption of the surfactants. Thermodynamic evaluation indicated spontaneous and endothermic adsorption of SCO on limestone. The systems were also characterized by FTIR, TG/DTG, XRD, XRF, SEM, and zeta potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Petroleum fuels are commonly used for automobiles. However, the continuous depletion and exhaust gas emission causes serious problems. So, there is a need for an alternative eco-friendly fuel. Biodiesel is a type of fuel manufactured through a process called transesterification, which involves converting vegetable oils into a usable form. The process parameters of the transesterification process were optimized using the Taguchi method to achieve maximum biodiesel yield. However, the main problem of biodiesel is its high cost which could be reduced by using low-cost feedstock. To address this challenge, biodiesel (BCFAD) is derived from coconut fatty acid distillate (CFAD), a by-product obtained from refining coconut oil. This work uses BCFAD and BCFAD with Alumina nanoparticles as fuels. Alumina nanoparticles in the mass fraction of 25 ppm, 50 ppm, and 100 ppm are dispersed in BCFAD. The investigation results reveal an increase of 6.5% in brake thermal efficiency for BCFAD with 100 ppm nanoparticles when compared to BCFAD. There is a reduction of 29.29% of hydrocarbon and 34% of Carbon monoxide emissions with BCFAD100 in comparison with diesel. However, there is a marginal increase in NOx emission with the increase in nanoparticles. The heat release rate and cylinder pressure of BCFAD100 are comparable to diesel fuel. It was concluded that the utilization of BCFAD with a nanoparticle dispersion of 100 ppm is suitable for direct use as fuel in diesel engines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coconut oil, a natural component abundant in terpenoids, possesses various physiological functions. The global concern over the spread of viral infections and antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and fungi has highlighted the need for novel treatments. Coconut oil, with its known antimicrobial properties, presents an attractive candidate for combating these pathogens. This study aims to investigate the potential of coconut oil-loaded silica nanoemulsion (ON@SiO2) as a novel therapeutic agent against viral, antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, and fungal pathogens. Results: The study synthesized coconut oil-loaded silica nanoemulsion (ON@SiO2) using an eco-friendly, cost-effective method with native coconut oil (CO). Characterization confirmed successful synthesis on the nanoscale with good distribution. Three nanoemulsion samples (ON-1@SiO2, ON-2@SiO2, and ON-3@SiO2) were prepared, with average particle sizes of 193 nm, 200 nm, and 325 nm, respectively. Evaluation of cytotoxicity on Vero-E6 cell lines indicated safety of ON-0@SiO2 and ON-3@SiO2, with CC50 values of 97.5 mg/ml and 89.1 mg/ml, respectively. ON-3@SiO2 demonstrated anti-Herpes I and II (HSV1 and HSV2) activity, with IC50 values of 1.9 mg/ml and 2.1 mg/ml, respectively. Additionally, ON-3@SiO2 exhibited promising antibacterial activity against E. coli, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and B. subtilis, with MIC values of 25 mg/ml, 12.5 mg/ml, 25 mg/ml, and 3.12 mg/ml, respectively. Conclusions: ON-3@SiO2 showed potential antifungal activity against C. albicans, a unicellular fungus, with an MIC of 12.5 mg/ml. Overall, ON@SiO2 possesses antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug absorption via chylomicrons holds significant implications for both pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. However, a mechanistic understanding of predicting in vivo intestinal lymphatic uptake remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to delve into the intestinal lymphatic uptake of drugs, investigating both enhancement and inhibition using various excipients through our previously established in vitro model. It also examined the applicability of the model by assessing the lymphatic uptake enhancement of a lymphotropic formulation with linoleoyl polyoxyl-6 glycerides using the same model. The model successfully differentiated among olive, sesame, and peanut oils in terms of lymphatic uptake. However, it did not distinguish between oils containing long-chain fatty acids and coconut oil. Coconut oil, known for its abundance of medium-chain fatty acids, outperformed other oils. This heightened uptake was attributed to the superior emulsification of this oil in artificial chylomicron media due to its high content of medium-chain fatty acids. Additionally, the enhanced uptake of the tested formulation with linoleoyl polyoxyl-6 glycerides underscored the practical applicability of this model in formulation optimization. Moreover, data suggested that increasing the zeta potential of Intralipid® using sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and decreasing it using (+/−) chloroquine led to enhanced and reduced uptake in the in vitro model, respectively. These findings indicate the potential influence of the zeta potential on intestinal lymphatic uptake in this model, though further research is needed to explore the possible translation of this mechanism in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: There has been a growing focus on the utilization of copra meal, the byproduct of coconut oil production, as an alternative feed ingredient to supplement the growing demands of the ruminant livestock, poultry, and aquaculture industries. It provides a locally available and inexpensive source of protein, which is essential in tropical and subtropical regions, where coconut production is robust while conventional feed ingredients are scarce and prices are often unstable. This paper presents up-to-date information on the advancements in using copra meal as an animal feed ingredient and the various methods employed to enhance its nutritional and feeding value. It also offers a comprehensive overview of the physical and chemical properties of copra meal, emphasizing the need for further research to fully exploit its potential due to the limited understanding of its physical properties and the variability in quality resulting from different processing operations. This review paper also focuses on other potential applications for copra meal, which is crucial given the substantial global production volume with limited value addition. This could play a significant role in boosting the profitability of the coconut sector, reducing agricultural waste, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Copra meal, the byproduct of coconut oil production, has been widely available at low cost but has been underutilized, with huge portions still becoming waste. Extensive research on different species have been performed to improve its use as an alternative feed ingredient, aiming to reduce the impact of fluctuating feed prices in some parts of the world where coconut is a major commodity. As for any biological product, the physical and chemical properties of copra meal play a crucial role in its use and limitations. In the case of copra meal, studies have found that additional treatments are needed to improve its nutritional composition and make it readily and efficiently available for ruminant and monogastric animals, poultry, and aquaculture applications. This paper presents a summary of up-to-date information on the physical and chemical characteristics of the product, as well as discussions on the various methods employed to improve and optimize its biological value as animal feed. There have been limited studies that have explored other effective and economical means of utilizing copra meal outside the livestock and feed industry. Hence, this paper also aims to provide a lens on future prospects and diverse applications involving copra meal, as well as to present the gaps and challenges that have to be addressed to maximize its product value and biological potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The most prominent feature of coconut oil (CO) is that it contains over 80% saturated fatty acids and about 60% medium chain fatty acids of total fatty acids. With these characteristics, CO shows many health benefits, but concerns about the risk of cardiovascular disease still remain in dispute. So far, there has been limited research on the potential use of CO in aquafeeds, being used as an alternative to fish oil (FO), and inconsistent results were presented. Therefore, we performed an experiment to investigate the effects of CO replacing FO on the growth performance of the orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides) in an attempt to determine its potential use and pertinent lipid metabolic mechanism in the fish species. Results show that CO could completely replace FO without affecting the growth performance, but high CO feeding will compromise the liver lipid deposit and long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids reduction of fish flesh in orange-spotted groupers. In this study, we conducted an 8-week feeding trial to investigate the effects of replacing fish oil (FO) with coconut oil (CO) on the growth performance, blood components, tissue fatty acid (FA) profile, and mRNA levels of genes related to lipid metabolism in the liver of the orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides). Five isolipidic and isoproteic diets were formulated through increasing the CO levels (0, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%, respectively). Triplicate groups of twenty-five fish (initial wet weight of about 22.4 g/fish) were fed one of the diets twice daily to apparent satiety. The 25% CO diet had the highest growth rate and feed utilization, and the 100% CO diet exhibited a comparable growth and feed utilization with that of the control diet, indicating a suitable FO substitute. Moreover, the hepatosomatic index, intraperitoneal fat rate, liver lipid content, as well as the serum HDL-C content and ALT activity had positive linear and/or quadratic responses, but the serum TC and LDL-C contents exhibited the opposite trend, with an increasing CO inclusion level. The FA profile in the liver and muscle generally mirrored the FA profile in the feed. Furthermore, the mRNA levels of the fas, acc, g6pd, srebp-1c, and δ6fad genes in the liver had positive linear and/or quadratic responses, but the mRNA levels of elovl 4 and elovl 5 had the opposite trend, with increasing dietary CO inclusion levels. When compared with the control diet, 25% and 50% CO diets up-regulated the mRNA levels of cpt 1, while the 75% and 100% CO diets down-regulated its mRNA levels. The hsl and atgl were down-regulated through the addition of dietary CO. The mRNA level of lpl was not affected by dietary treatments. Results showed that CO could completely replace FO without affecting growth performance, but high CO will lead to the significant liver lipid deposition and lower LC-PUFAs contents of fish flesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palmitic acid is used in cosmetics as well as skin care products, and its extraction from plants remains major source of production. The conventional process of extraction is quite laborious and may lead to loss of plant diversity. Therefore, the current investigation aims at producing palmitic acid from coconut oilcake using probiotics isolated from marine fish. A total of 18 bacterial strains were isolated from Indian oil Sardine fish (Sardinella longiceps) and Obtuse barracuda fish (Sphyraena obtusata). Among various strains isolated, Mm12 strain was able to synthesize 60.57 mg/100mL fatty acids. The production of palmitic acid was optimized using RSM with the most appropriate values of the tested parameters by using Design-Expert 13 to resolve the correlation coefficients binomial equation’s reciprocal matrix as temperature 10°C, pH 5.5, and 40 g oil cake substrate. The highest quantity of palmitic acid that could be produced under ideal circumstances has been estimated to be 19.97 mg/100 mL which was confirmed by GC–MS fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis. Production of palmitic acids from the oil cake was not only a novel method of valorizing industrial waste using probiotic bacteria and but also a promising method of producing palmitate using cheaper substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, surface changes between American walnut (Juglans nigra L.) wood and modified beeswaxes were investigated. A control group was established, and various beeswax mixtures [coconut oil (coconut oil + beeswax mixture), linseed oil (linseed oil and beeswax mixture), and protective oil (olive oil + beeswax mixture)] were individually applied to wooden surfaces using a brush. Subsequently, color parameters (a*, C*, b*, L*, and ho), whiteness index (WI*), and gloss properties were examined. The obtained measurement results were compared with each other. According to the results obtained, modified beeswax types were significantly identified for all tests through variance analysis. When all modified beeswaxes were applied to the wood material surfaces, reductions were noted in the b*, L*, C*, and ho values, whereas increments were observed in the a* values. The ΔE* values were found to be 18.37 for olive oil + beeswax, 18.91 for flaxseed oil + beeswax, and 15.69 for coconut oil + beeswax. Furthermore, a decrease in WI* values was observed in both directions with the application of all modified beeswaxes. The surface properties of the wood material were observed to have been altered by the chemicals used in the applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The innovative integration of phase change materials (PCMs) into textiles through microencapsulation presents a transformative approach to developing thermally regulated fabrics. This study explores the synthesis and characterization of microcapsules containing a coconut oil core and an ethylcellulose shell, and their application on cotton fabrics coated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers. The dual-layer system involving microcapsules and nanofibers is designed to enhance the thermal insulation properties of textiles by regulating heat through the absorption and release of thermal energy. The microencapsulation of PCMs allows for the effective incorporation of these materials into textiles without altering the fabric's inherent properties. In this study, the coconut oil serves as the PCM, known for its suitable phase change temperature range, while ethylcellulose provides a robust shell, enhancing the microcapsules' structural integrity. The application of a PVA nanofibers layer not only strengthens the thermal regulation properties but also protects the microcapsules from release while the fabric is manipulated, thereby prolonging the functional life of the fabric. Comprehensive testing, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), confirms the successful application and durability of the microcapsules on the textiles. Thermal imaging studies demonstrate the fabric's enhanced capability to maintain a consistent temperature, highlighting the potential of this technology in applications ranging from smart clothing to energy-efficient building materials or automotive isolation. The integration of PCMs in textiles via microencapsulation and nanofiber technology marks a significant advancement in textile engineering, offering new opportunities for the development of smart and sustainable materials. The study demonstrates the promising potential of integrating PCMs into textiles using microencapsulation and nanofiber technologies. Despite the initially modest insulation improvements, the methodology provides a robust foundation for further research and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Chronic stress arises from stressful situations in day-to-day life that are ignored or managed incorrectly. Long-term stress can have negative effects, especially when it plays a role in the development of neurological illnesses. Severe stress can also negatively impact emotional well-being. Virgin coconut oil (VCO) has numerous health advantages. The aim of this study was to assess how VCO affected the biochemical and behavioral characteristics of Wistar albino rats exposed to chronic, unpredictable stress. Materials and Methods: Healthy Wistar albino rats (150-200 gm) were split into two groups: experimental group and control group. Based on stress exposure and treatment with VCO and antidepressants, they were further divided into various subgroups. A chronic, unpredictable stress procedure was given for 21 days. After the experimental procedure, the rats were anesthetized, and through a cardiac puncture, blood was collected. The liver and brain were dissected to estimate different biochemical markers. Results: VCO proved to be a protective agent against chronic, unpredictable stress-induced changes in the biochemical parameters, hepatic enzyme activity, lipid profile, oxidative stress, and cognition. Conclusion: VCO might be helpful as an effective natural treatment that can be utilized to effectively combat chronic, unpredictable stress-induced changes in brain and liver tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cooling is a technique employed to reduce the high glucose release from white rice by altering the proportion of rapidly digestible (RDS), slowly digestible (SDS), and resistant (RS) starches. Retrogradation of the gelatinised starches to a crystalline structure increases the RS content that does not spike blood glucose on consumption. The meta-analysis showed that following different retrogradation durations, there were significant mean differences (MD), viz. an increase in RS (MD: 4.17 g/100 g, p < 0.00001) and decrease in RDS (MD: -7.09 g/100 g, p < 0.0001). The addition of cooking oil to rice retards the release of glucose due to the formation of an amylose-lipid complex (ALC), and together with retrogradation, further lowers glucose release. In the present work, palm oil (PO) and coconut oil (CO) were added to steamed rice by three methods: (A) stir-frying raw rice with oil before steaming, (B) adding oil in cooking water during steaming, and (C): stirfrying the steamed rice with oil, following by refrigeration at 4°C for 12 h. For nutritional composition, the moisture, fat, and carbohydrate contents of white rice were affected upon treatments. Besides, oil-treated rice released glucose slower than control in the in vitro digestibility test, showing increased RS and decreased RDS. Moreover, rice with CO added by Method A might serve as a potential prebiotic as it increased the growth of Lacticaseibacillus casei and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus in tandem with the decrease in oligosaccharides over 24 h. Coconut oil was the better cooking oil for reducing glucose release from white rice due to its greater ability to form ALC. The addition of CO via Method C is recommended as the lower moisture content in the rice aided formation of perfectly crystalline starch during retrogradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appropriate addition of vegetable oil can improve the flavour, increase the nutritional composition, and modify the quality of surimi seafood products. In the present work, the effects of different levels (0 to 2%) of red palm oil (RPO) and extra virgin coconut oil (EVCO) on the properties of threadfin bream surimi were studied. Significant changes were observed in the contents of moisture and fat when the oils were incorporated (p < 0.05), while no differences in the contents of ash and protein were observed (p > 0.05). The incorporation of RPO significantly decreased whiteness as the oil level increased, and ranged from 54.44 to 57.59 from 65.20 in Control (p < 0.05). No significant change in whiteness among samples with EVCO was observed (p > 0.05), regardless of the levels. The pH and cooking yield of the samples increased, whereas water-holding capacity (WHC) decreased (p < 0.05). As the oil levels increased, the gel strength continuously decreased (p < 0.05), in which the highest decrease of 41% was observed in sample containing 2% RPO, compared to Control. Based on texture profile analysis (TPA), hardness displayed a significant increase with increasing oil levels, and ranged from 14 to 28 N (p < 0.05). Chewiness, springiness, and cohesiveness increased as incorporated oils increased (p < 0.05). Microstructure study revealed that the oil droplets were uniformly distributed on the gel surface. Higher storage modulus (G') of the samples was observed when the oils were incorporated, compared to Control. Nevertheless, there was no marked difference in the modulus among samples incorporated with the oils at the same level. The present work demonstrated that RPO and EVCO incorporation directly affected threadfin bream surimi's physicochemical and gelation properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

为解决传统植脂奶油所用部分氢化植物油中饱和脂肪酸与反式脂肪酸带来的健康问题，以椰子油-葵花籽油混合油（质量比1∶ 1）为基料油，β-环糊精和大豆卵磷脂为复合乳化剂，采用物理复配法制备植脂奶油，采用单因素试验研究了水分含量、β-环糊精和大豆卵磷脂添加量对植脂奶油持油性、持水性和稳定性的影响，并通过响应面法优化了制备工艺条件。结果表明：植脂奶油最优制备工艺条件为β-环糊精添加量6.0%、大豆卵磷脂添加量1.1%、水分含量38.0%，在此条件下植脂奶油的持油性和持水性分别达到98.9%和93.8%；对植脂奶油的稳定性分析也进一步说明了持油性、持水性与稳定性之间的正向关系。综上，以β-环糊精和大豆卵磷脂为复合乳化剂，采用物理复配法制备的椰子油-葵花籽油基植脂奶油是一种潜在的营养健康植脂奶油。Aiming to resolve the health issues caused by saturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids in part hydrogenated vegetable oils used in traditional vegetable cream, using coconut oil-sunflower seed oil mixture(mass ratio 1∶ 1 ) as the base oil, β-cyclodextrin and soybean lecithin as compound emulsifiers,vegetable cream was prepared by physical compound method.The effects of water content, addition amounts of β-cyclodextrin and soybean lecithin on the oil holding capacity, water holding capacity, and stability of the vegetable cream were investigated by single factor experiment, then response surface methodology was used to optimize the preparation conditions of vegetable cream. The results showed that the optimal conditions were as follows: β-cyclodextrin addition amount 6.0%, soybean lecithin addition amount 11% and water content 38.0%. Under the optimal conditions, the oil holding capacity and water holding capacity of the vegetable cream reached 98.9% and 93.8%, respectively. Additionally, the analysis of stability of the vegetable cream showed that there was a positive relationship between oil holding capacity, water holding capacity and stability. Coconut oil-sunflower seed oil based vegetable cream prepared by physical compound method with β-cyclodextrin and soybean lecithin as compound emulsifiers is a potential nutritious and healthy vegetable cream.

Background: Synthesizing current evidence on interventions to improve survival outcomes in preterm infants is crucial for informing programs and policies. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of topical emollient oil application on the weight of preterm infants. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted. To identify relevant studies, comprehensive searches were conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, Clinical trials, ProQuest Central, Epistemonikos, and gray literature sources. The inclusion criteria were based on the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcomes) format. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2.0). Data analysis was performed using StataCrop MP V.17 software, which included evaluating heterogeneity, conducting subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and meta-regression. The findings were reported in accordance with the PRISMA checklist, and the review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023413770). Results: Out of the initial pool of 2734 articles, a total of 18 studies involving 1454 preterm neonates were included in the final analysis. Fourteen of these studies provided data that contributed to the calculation of the pooled difference in mean weight gain in preterm neonates. The random effects meta-analysis revealed a significant pooled difference in mean weight gain of 52.15 grams (95% CI: 45.96, 58.35), albeit with high heterogeneity (I2 > 93.24%, p 0.000). Subgroup analyses were conducted, revealing that preterm infants who received massages three times daily with either sunflower oil or coconut oil exhibited greater mean differences in weight gain. Meta-regression analysis indicated that the type of emollient oil, duration of therapy, and frequency of application significantly contributed to the observed heterogeneity. A sensitivity analysis was performed, excluding two outlier studies, resulting in a pooled mean weight difference of 78.57grams (95% CI: 52.46, 104.68). Among the nine studies that reported adverse events, only two mentioned occurrences of rash and accidental slippage in the intervention groups. Conclusion: The available evidence suggests that the application of topical emollient oil in preterm neonates is likely to be effective in promoting weight gain, with a moderate-to-high level of certainty. Based on these findings, it is recommended that local policymakers and health planners prioritize the routine use of emollient oils in newborn care for preterm infants. By incorporating emollient oils into standard care protocols, healthcare providers can provide additional support to promote optimal growth and development in preterm infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study was designed to investigate the influence of different dietary lipids (sheep's fat, olive oil, coconut oil, and corn oil) on specific biomarkers associated with metabolic syndrome in both healthy and diabetic rats. Methods: The study designed for 45 days, utilized a male diabetic wistar rat (body weight, 180–220 g) model induced by streptozotocin (45 mg/kg bw). The rats were divided into two sections: five non-diabetic and five diabetic groups, each containing six rats. The first group in each section serving as the control, received a standard diet. Both non-diabetic or diabetic groups, were provided with a standard diet enriched with 15% sheep fat, 15% coconut oil, 15% olive oil, and 15% corn oil, respectively for a duration of 45 days. Results: Post-supplementation, both healthy and diabetic control rats exhibited a higher food intake compared to rats supplemented with lipid diet; notably food intake was higher in diabetic control than healthy control. However, rats fed with coconut oil, olive oil and sheep fat showed weight gain at the end of the experiment, in both healthy and diabetic groups. Coconut oil supplementation significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased HDL-C and total cholesterol level in diabetic groups compared to healthy group, it was confirmed by an increased PPAR-α and ABCA-1 protein level. Olive oil significantly decreased triglyceride, total cholesterol, and LDL-C levels in diabetic rats when compared to sheep fat or coconut oil. Corn oil significantly decreased fasting glucose, total cholesterol and LDL-C levels compared to all other groups. Corn and olive oil supplemented normal groups, found with significant increase in hepatic glucose-lipid oxidative metabolism associated protein, like FGF-21, MSH, ABCA-1, PPAR-γ and decreased lipogenesis proteins like, SREBP and PPAR-α levels. In contrast, sheep grease and coconut oil increased SREBP and PPAR-α expression in both normal and diabetic groups. Most notably, normal and diabetic groups pretreated with sheep grease resulted in increased inflammatory (MCP-1, IL-1β, TLR-4, TNF-α), and oxidative stress markers (LPO, GSH, GPx, SOD and CAT) linked with metabolic complications. Conclusion: The combination or alternative use of olive oil and corn oil in daily diet may play a significant role in preventing proinflammatory condition associated with insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): Male infertility is a major public health issue due to increased prevalence, so there is an urgent need for a therapeutic solution. The search for a natural dietary substance that could modulate redox balance and inflammation and protect testicular function is in demand. Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) has found use in the treatment of diabetes, and cancer owing to the presence of polyphenols. However, there is a dearth of information on its effect on testicular toxicity. The present study investigated VCO as a possible treatment for testicular toxicity in the Sodium Benzoate (SB) model of male infertility by evaluating the oxidative and inflammatory status, circulating hormonal levels, and key sperm indices. Materials and Methods: Twenty adult male rats were randomly assigned to four groups of 5 rats each and were treated with normal saline, sodium benzoate, sodium benzoate+5% VCO, and sodium benzoate+15% VCO for 30 days respectively. Biochemical analysis of reproductive hormones was assessed. Sperm parameters assessed include sperm function tests and sperm kinematics. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post hoc Tukey tests was performed. Results: 5% VCO reverts the deranged serum reproductive hormones caused by sodium benzoate. 5% VCO was more potent as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory treatment than 15% VCO. However, both doses prevented SB's effect on the sperm function test and kinematics. Conclusion: VCO-supplemented diet can ameliorate SB-induced testicular toxicity by inhibiting its mechanisms of toxicity that are related to oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to study the influence of novel macro encapsulated phase change materials (PCMs) on the mechanical and thermal properties of concretes. Thermal energy storage aggregates (TESAs) were prepared using vacuum impregnation. The PCMs were a lauric-myristic acid (LA-MA) eutectic mixture and coconut oil, pure or mixed, and are impregnated in diatomite as a supporting material. Thermal energy storage concrete (TESC) was made by replacing gravel in ordinary concrete with TESAs. Thermal and mechanical properties of prepared TESC were studied using differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, compressive strength, and thermal performance analysis. The results showed that the melting temperature of coconut oil and the eutectic mixture of LA-MA were 25.2°C and 34.5°C, respectively. TESC with 80 wt.% of gravel replaced with TESA had a compressive strength of higher than 17 MPa, which indicates its usability as structural concrete. The results of thermal performance analysis also revealed that prepared TESC had the capability of storing thermal energy and can reduce energy consumption by damping temperature fluctuations caused by the outside environment. In this paper, a thermal energy storage concrete (TESC) was prepared by embedding phase change materials (PCMs) in diatomite used in TESC. Using this type of concrete in the building will reduce the energy consumption of the building and increase its thermal comfort. The produced concrete containing 80 wt.% of gravel replaced with diatomite saturated with PCM had a desirable 28-day cylindrical sample strength of 21 MPa. In the designed thermal test, the time required for this concrete to reach 40°C is almost twice that of concrete without PCM. The results show a reduction of the influence of outside temperature on the temperature inside the buildings made with this type of concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]