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Background/Objectives: Human milk is the optimal source of nutrition and protection against infection for infants. If breastfeeding is not possible, standard and hydrolyzed infant formulas (IF) are an alternative. Extensively hydrolyzed IFs (eHFs) contain bioactive peptides, but their activities have rarely been evaluated. The aim of this study was to characterize and compare the bioactive peptide profiles of different eHFs and standard IFs before and after in vitro digestion. Methods: Two forms, liquid and powder, of intact protein formula (iPF) and eHF were subjected to in vitro gastrointestinal digestion, mimicking a young infants gut (age 0-4 months) and an older infants gut (>6 months). Bioactive peptides of in vitro digested and undigested formulas were analysed with Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). Results: In all samples, a variety of peptides with potential bioactive properties were found. Immuno-regulatory peptides, followed by antimicrobial and antioxidative peptides were most frequent, as were peptides promoting wound healing, increasing mucin secretion, regulating cholesterol metabolism, and preventing bacterial infection. Peptides typically found in yoghurt and colostrum were identified in some formula samples. Conclusions: The high amounts of bioactive peptides with various properties in eHFs and iPFs indicate a possible contribution to infection protection, healthy gut microbiomes, and immunological development of infants. eHFs showed similar compositions of bioactive peptides to iPFs, with intermittently increased peptide variety and quantity.

The total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay has been extensively used for detecting PFAS pollutants that do not have analytical standards. It uses hydroxyl radicals (HO•) from the heat activation of persulfate under alkaline pH to convert H-containing precursors to perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCAs) for target analysis. However, the current TOP assay oxidation method does not apply to emerging PFAS because (i) many structures do not contain C-H bonds for HO• attack and (ii) the transformation products are not necessarily PFCAs. In this study, we explored the use of classic acidic persulfate digestion, which generates sulfate radicals (SO4-•), to extend the capability of the TOP assay. We examined the oxidation of Nafion-related ether sulfonates that contain C-H or -COO-, characterized the oxidation products, and quantified the F atom balance. The SO4-• oxidation greatly expanded the scope of oxidizable precursors. The transformation was initiated by decarboxylation, followed by various spontaneous steps, such as HF elimination and ester hydrolysis. We further compared the oxidation of legacy fluorotelomers using SO4-• versus HO•. The results suggest novel product distribution patterns, depending on the functional group and oxidant dose. The general trends and strategies were also validated by analyzing a mixture of 100000- or 10000-fold diluted aqueous film-forming foam (containing various fluorotelomer surfactants and organics) and a spiked Nafion precursor. Therefore, (1) the combined use of SO4-• and HO• oxidation, (2) the expanded list of standard chemicals, and (3) further elucidation of SO4-• oxidation mechanisms will provide more critical information to probe emerging PFAS pollutants.

Diet shapes the gut microbiome, which in turn influences host phenotype. Accordingly, there is much interest in leveraging diet to modulate gut microbial communities and host biology. However, recent approaches have not fully appreciated that hosts and gut microbes experience diet differently. Whether dietary nutrients reach the gut microbiota, which primarily resides in the colon in humans and other hindgut fermenters, depends on nutrient absorption in the small intestine. That gut microbes utilize the fraction of diet that escapes host-driven digestion creates a paradigm where host nutrient status is decoupled from, and often negatively correlated with, gut microbiota nutrient status. Here, we present a framework based on this concept of decoupled nutrient status (DNS), which can be used to understand distinct host and gut microbial phenotypes that are ultimately mediated by the small intestinal digestibility of the diet. We evaluate our framework against existing research employing diets of varying digestibility and demonstrate convergence of host phenotypes and gut microbial signatures across studies. Further, we highlight that gut microbial signatures predicted by DNS manifest most strongly in humans living industrialized lifestyles and in captive animals that habitually consume diets with high host-driven digestibility. We posit that the evolutionary decoupling of nutritional status between hosts and their gut microbiota has likely been especially pronounced in humans due to our intensified pursuit of calorie-rich, easy-to-digest diets. We conclude by proposing future research directions to better capture diet as it appears to gut microbes, a perspective likely to deliver new understanding of diet-microbiome interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a fundamental unit for packaging genomic DNA into chromatin, the eukaryotic nucleosome core comprises a canonical octamer with two copies for each histone, H2A, H2B, H3, and H4, wrapped around with 147 base pairs of DNA. While H3 and H4 share structure-fold with archaeal histone-like proteins, the eukaryotic nucleosome core and the complete nucleosome (the core plus H1 histone) are unique to eukaryotes. To explore whether the eukaryotic nucleosome can assemble in prokaryotes and to reconstruct the possible route for its emergence in eukaryogenesis, we developed an in vivo system for assembly of nucleosomes in the model bacterium, Escherichia coli, and successfully reconstituted the core nucleosome, the complete nucleosome, and unexpectedly the non-canonical (H3-H4)4 octasome. The core and complete nucleosomes assembled in E. coli exhibited footprints typical of eukaryotic hosts after in situ micrococcal nuclease digestion. Additionally, they caused condensation of E. coli nucleoid. We also demonstrated the stable formation of non-canonical (H3-H4)2 tetrasome and (H3-H4)4 octasomes in vivo, which are suggested to be 'fossil complex' that marks the intermediate in the progressive development of eukaryotic nucleosome. The study presents a unique platform in a bacterium for in vivo assembly and studying the properties of non-canonical variants of nucleosome. Development of an in vivo system for assembly of eukaryotic nucleosomes in Escherichia coli, including the non-canonical (H3-H4)4 octasome, suggests the H3-H4 tetrasome and octasomes are likely intermediate complexes in the evolution of the eukaryotic nucleosome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Engineering plant-based microgel particles (MPs) at a molecular scale is meaningful to prepare functional fat analogues. We hypothesize that oat protein isolate (OPI) and κ-carrageenan (CA) have synergy in MPs formation, using MPs with controllable structure, and further to fabricate fat analogues with adjustable characteristics is feasible. Their digestion fate will also be possibly modulated by interfacial coatings. OPI-based conjugated MPs with tunable rigidities by changing crosslinking densities were designed. The relationship between microgel structures, and emulsion gel properties was explored through spectroscopy, microstructure, rheology and tribology. The delivery to lycopene, as well as inhibiting digestion behaviors of fat analogues was evaluated in a simulated gastro-intestinal tract. The rigidity of conjugated MPs could be tailored to optimize the performance of fat analogues. OPI-1 %CA MPs could stabilize emulsions up to 95 % oil fraction with fine texture. Tribological behaviors had a dependence on microgel elasticity and interfacial coatings, medium hard MP-stabilized emulsion was less disrupted without coalescence after oral processing. Digestion was delayed by denser and harder MPs by softening the interfacial particle layer or limiting lipase accessibility. Softer conjugated MPs possessed better flexibility and were broken down more easily leading to a higher rate of lipid digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare the concentration of phenolic compounds, glucosinolates, proteins, sugars and vitamin C between kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. acephala gongylodes), Savoy cabbage (B. oleracea sabauda), Brussels sprouts (B. oleracea gemmifera), cauliflower (B. oleracea botrytis), radish (Raphanus sativus) and garden cress (Lepidium sativum) microgreens for their antioxidant and hypoglycemic potential. In addition, we applied an in vitro-simulated system of human digestion in order to track the bioaccessibility of the selected phenolic representatives, and the stability of the microgreens' antioxidant and hypoglycemic potential in terms of α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition after each digestion phase. Using spectrophotometric and RP-HPLC methods with statistical analyses, we found that garden cress had the lowest soluble sugar content, while Savoy cabbage and Brussels sprouts had the highest glucosinolate levels (76.21 ± 4.17 mg SinE/g dm and 77.73 ± 3.33 mg SinE/g dm, respectively). Brussels sprouts were the most effective at inhibiting protein glycation (37.98 ± 2.30% inhibition). A very high positive correlation (r = 0.830) between antiglycation potential and conjugated sinapic acid was recorded. For the first time, the antidiabetic potential of microgreens after in vitro digestion was studied. Kohlrabi microgreens best inhibited α-amylase in both initial and intestinal digestion (60.51 ± 3.65% inhibition and 62.96 ± 3.39% inhibition, respectively), and also showed the strongest inhibition of α-glucosidase post-digestion (19.22 ± 0.08% inhibition). Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and radish had less stable α-glucosidase than α-amylase inhibitors during digestion. Kohlrabi, Savoy cabbage, and garden cress retained inhibition of both enzymes after digestion. Kohlrabi antioxidant capacity remained unchanged after digestion. The greatest variability was seen in the original samples, while the intestinal phase resulted in the most convergence, indicating that digestion reduced differences between the samples. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of various microgreens as sources of bioactive compounds with antidiabetic and antiglycation properties. Notably, kohlrabi microgreens demonstrated significant enzyme inhibition after digestion, suggesting their promise in managing carbohydrate metabolism and supporting metabolic health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entomophagy is being proposed as a sustainable and nutritious alternative protein source. Additionally, insect consumption is also associated with some health benefits mediated by bioactive compounds produced during gastrointestinal (GI) digestion. The antihypertensive property resulting from the inhibition of the somatic angiotensin-converting enzyme (sACE) by small peptides is one of the most common bioactivities related to insect consumption. This study aimed to investigate the potential sACE-inhibitory capacity of six peptides (AVQPCF, CAIAW, IIIGW, QIVW, PIVCF, and DVW), previously identified by the in silico GI digestion of Acheta domesticus proteins, validate their formation after in vitro GI digestion of A. domesticus by LC-MS/MS, and assess the bioactivity of the bioaccessible digesta. The results showed that the IC50 values of AVQPCF, PIVCF, and CAIAW on sACE were 3.69 ± 0.25, 4.63 ± 0.16, and 6.55 ± 0.52 μM, respectively. The obtained digesta demonstrated a sACE-inhibitory capacity of 77.1 ± 11.8 µg protein/mL extract (IC50). This is the first report of the sACE-inhibitory capacity attributed to whole A. domesticus subjected to GI digestion without any pre-treatment or protein concentration. This evidence highlights the potential antihypertensive effect of both the digesta and the identified peptides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on animal energetics often focus on standardized metabolic rates to facilitate comparison across systems. Yet these standardized measurements often do not capture the realistic demographic and environmental variation that is common in natural settings. Rather, individuals included in these studies are often non-reproducing, uninjured, resting adults that have not recently eaten–far from a representative sample. We measured the respiratory rates of the sand fiddler crab Leptuca pugilator in air immediately after capture in the field, and compared rates between males, females of different reproductive states, and juveniles. As expected, we show that metabolic rates were influenced by body mass and activity level. We also show that being vitellogenic or gravid had only minor impacts on metabolic costs of females. Importantly, we demonstrate how considering demographics allows for the detection of phenomena that would otherwise go unnoticed. We found that field metabolic rates of L. pugilator in air are as much as an order of magnitude higher than previous standard metabolic rates measured on post-prandial, quiescent individuals. These higher rates may reflect a combination of high activity and active digestion, as fiddler crabs actively feed during low tide periods. Our results highlight the importance of considering differences in sex, life history stage, and reproductive state of organisms in fluctuating environments, such as intertidal habitats, when assessing energy expenditure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese (Mn) is a nutritional element required for fish growth and physiology functions. In this study, we examined the effect of Mn on the intestinal digestive function, antioxidant response, and muscle quality in coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch). Nine hundred salmons with initial weight approximately 0.35 g were fed with six isoproteic and isoenergetic diets formulated to contain 2.4, 8.5, 14.8, 19.8, 24.6, and 33.7 mg/kg Mn for 84 days. The result showed that the activity of trypsin and lipase was elevated, whereas α‐amylase activity was not affected by various Mn diets in intestine. Dietary Mn elevated the activity of Mn‐superoxide dismutase (Mn‐SOD), total superoxide dismutase (T‐SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐PX), and catalase (CAT), but had no influence on copper/zinc‐superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn‐SOD) in intestine. Dietary Mn at 8.5, 14.8, 19.8, 24.6, and 33.7 mg/kg enhanced the gene expression level of protein kinase B (Akt) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). In addition, the accumulation of Mn in muscle was enhanced with increasing levels of dietary Mn. Dietary Mn elevated the content of sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca), but the content of iron (Fe) and Zn was decreased by dietary Mn in the salmon muscle. The content of fatty acids and amino acids was enhanced by various levels of dietary Mn in muscle. Moreover, a significant quadratic effect was observed on the texture of salmon muscle. The dietary Mn requirement was 16.9–25.7 mg/kg Mn to acquire the highest value of muscle texture using the quadratic regression model. The diets at 14.8 and 19.8 mg/kg Mn had a higher score of sensory evaluation for raw muscle. Our result showed that dietary Mn affected the intestinal digestion function and antioxidant response, which may further result in the change of muscle quality in coho salmon. The result will provide reference for detecting the effect of dietary micronutrients on the muscle quality of salmons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial in the Frontiers in Pharmacology journal explores the potential of probiotics and their metabolites in cancer therapy, emphasizing their role in modulating immune responses and enhancing innate immunity. The research highlights the anticancer properties of probiotics and calls for further human trials and molecular mechanism studies to fully establish their effectiveness. Additionally, the document provides information on various plant species used in Brazilian folk medicine, detailing their traditional names, growth forms, parts used, preparation methods, and applications for treating ailments like headaches, stomachaches, malaria, and skin conditions, showcasing the diverse medicinal practices of different cultures. [Extracted from the article]

[Display omitted] Understanding the digestion of lipid-based pharmaceutical formulations and food systems is necessary for optimising drug and nutrient delivery and has been extensively studied in bulk emulsion systems using the pH-stat method [1]. However, this approach is not suitable for investigation of individual lipid droplets, in particular the interface where the lipase acts. Microfluidic approaches to study digestion at lipid-water interfaces using droplet trapping have been proposed, however the aqueous phase in that case washes over the interface presenting uncertainty over the stoichiometry of interactions [2]. The internal interface of a Janus-like droplet, containing distinct aqueous and lipid compartments, mimics the interface of a lipid droplet in aqueous solution with controlled stoichiometry [3]. Hence, it was hypothesised that the internal interface of Janus droplets can offer a precise way to study the enzymatic digestion of lipids formulations. Using microfluidic methods, Janus-like droplets were formed by coalescing emulsion droplets containing lipid formulation and pancreatic lipase. Polarised light microscopy (PLM) and in-situ small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) were used to investigate the droplets. PLM revealed the growth of an aligned inverse hexagonal phase (H 2), and with SAXS showed that this phase transformation and alignment resulted from enzymatic digestion. A subsequent partial transformation from H 2 to inverse bicontinuous cubic phase occurred when simulated intestinal fluid was used instead of Tris buffer. Suggesting that phospholipids and bile salts could diffuse across the internal interface to locally affect their surroundings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science 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.)

The digestion behavior of a food bolus comprising bread particles in the presence of gastric peristalsis remains poorly understood. This study systematically investigated the effect of bread type on in vitro gastric digestion behavior using a human gastric digestion simulator (GDS) that is capable of quantitatively simulating gastric peristalsis. A food bolus consisting of 60 g of bread (white bread, bagel, German bread, French bread, or croissant), 15 mL of a simulated salivary fluid, and 240 mL of a simulated gastric fluid was used for gastric digestion in vitro using the GDS for 3 h at 37 °C. Direct observation of the gastric digestion behavior in the GDS vessel demonstrated that the structure and composition of breads considerably influenced the physical digestion processes of bread particles. These processes include their fracture, rubbing, disintegration, swelling owing to the penetration of gastric fluid, and release of fat from their surface. Fluorescence microscopy enabled an improved understanding of the variations in the microstructure and major component distribution of the breads during the gastric digestion in vitro. The results showed how the different breads influenced gastric digestibility in vitro through quantitative gastric peristalsis. The GDS can also be applicable to studying gastric digestibility in vitro of other types of bread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to comprehensively assess the safety of rimegepant administration in real-world clinical settings. Methods: Data from the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) spanning the second quarter of 2020 through the first quarter of 2023 were retrospectively analyzed in this pharmacovigilance investigation. This study focuses on employing subgroup analysis to monitor rimegepant drug safety. Descriptive analysis was employed to examine clinical characteristics and concomitant medication of adverse event reports associated with rimegepant, including report season, reporter country, sex, age, weight, dose, and frequency, onset time, et al. Correlation analysis, including techniques such as violin plots, was utilized to explore relationships between clinical characteristics in greater detail. Additionally, four disproportionality analysis methods were applied to assess adverse event signals associated with rimegepant. Results: A total of 5,416,969 adverse event reports extracted from the FAERS database, 10, 194 adverse events were identified as the "primary suspect" (PS) drug attributed to rimegepant. Rimegepant-associated adverse events involved 27 System Organ Classes (SOCs), and the significant SOC meeting all four detection criteria was "general disorders and administration site conditions" (SOC: 10018065). Additionally, new significant adverse events were discovered, including "vomiting projectile" (PT: 10047708), "eructation" (PT: 10015137), "motion sickness" (PT: 10027990), "feeling drunk" (PT: 10016330), "reaction to food additive" (PT: 10037977), etc. Descriptive analysis indicated that the majority of reporters were consumers (88.1%), with most reports involving female patients. Significant differences were observed between female and male patients across age categories, and the concomitant use of rimegepant with other medications was complex. Conclusion: This study has preliminarily identified potential new adverse events associated with rimegepant, such as those involving the gastrointestinal system, nervous system, and immune system, which warrant further research to determine their exact mechanisms and risk factors. Additionally, significant differences in rimegepant-related adverse events were observed across different age groups and sexes, and the complexity of concomitant medication use should be given special attention in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.) is a saprophagous insect belonging to the Stratiomyidae family that can degrade organic waste and convert it into high-quality insect protein and lipid. Corn straw is a kind of prevalent agricultural waste. In this study, black soldier fly larvae were reared with corn straw to obtain larval biomass and consume corn straw. The results showed that most of the black soldier fly larvae could survive and gain weight when fed with corn straw. Gut microorganisms could respond to the substrates, and four cellulase-producing strains isolated from the gut were beneficial to digesting corn straw. Corn straw is considered a renewable biomass energy source, and its unreasonable disposal leads to resource waste and environmental pollution. Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.) larvae (BSFL) facilitate the bioconversion of various types of organic wastes. In this study, we found that 88% of BSFL survived, and 37.4% of corn straw was digested after 14 days of feeding with corn straw. Contrary to expectations, the pretreatment of corn straw with alkaline hydrogen peroxide did not promote its digestion but rather reduced the growth and survival rates of BSFL. Acinetobacter, Dysgonomonas, and unclassified Enterobacteriaceae were the abundant genera in the BSFL gut fed with corn straw. Compared with the standard diet, the relative abundances of carbohydrate metabolism genes, such as the gene abundances of β-glucosidase and α-glucosidase, were higher with corn straw as the substrate. These results suggested that the gut microbial community could regulate suitable and functional microorganisms in response to the substrates. Furthermore, four cellulase-producing strains, namely Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella oxytoca, and Providencia rettgeri, were isolated from the guts of corn straw BSFL. These four strains helped increase the conversion rates of corn straw, the weights of BSFL, and survival rates. In summary, we reared BSFL with corn straw and discovered the functions of gut microorganisms in adapting to the substrates. We also isolated four cellulase-producing strains from the BSFL guts and declared the benefits of BSFL digesting corn straw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the effects of feeding a new strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae HSA2020 with a commercial strain on in vitro rumen fermentation and production performance of dairy cows. Permeate was used as a substrate for the laboratory production of the new strain of S. cerevisiae after the hydrolysis by β-galactosidase (5000 µ/mL at 37°C). Two experiments were conducted: in Experiment 1, the effects of three levels (1, 2 and 3 g/kg dry matter) of S. cerevisiae on in vitro ruminal fermentation kinetics were evaluated. In Experiment 2, for 60 days, sixty multiparous Holstein cows (639±24.8 kg BW, 3±1 parity, 7±1 days in milk, with a previous milk production of 23±2.0 kg/d) during the previous lactation, were randomly assigned to 3 treatments in a completely randomized design. Cows were fed without any additives (control treatment) or supplemented with 2 g/kg feed daily of laboratory produced (PY) or commercial (CY) S. cerevisiae. In Experiment 1, inclusion of PY and CY increased (P<0.05) gas production, propionate, and nutrient disappearance, while decreased (P<0.05) methane production and protozoal count. Moreover, in Experiment 2, PY followed by CY increased (P<0.01) nutrient digestibility, and serum concentrations of total protein, albumin, and glucose (P<0.05). Higher daily milk yield, and milk energy output were observed with PY and CY without affecting concentrations of milk components or milk fatty acid profile. Compared to control, increased feed efficiency was observed with PY and CY. Compared to PY, CY increased serum concentrations of urea-N and decreased triglycerides, while PY decreased serum aspartate transaminase and increased concentration of conjugated linoleic acids in milk. In early lactating cow diets, both strains of S. cerevisiae improved production performance at 2 g/kg, and minimal differences between strains were found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study traced the cytotoxicity, antioxidant activity, and phytochemical profile before and after in vitro digestion of nuts from Sterculia striata A. St.-Hil. & Naudin (Malvaceae) (chichá or monkey's peanut), a native plant from Brazil, in comparison with Arachis hypogaea L. (peanut). The antioxidant activity in the 2,2'-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power Assay (FRAP) assays was lower in chichá when compared with peanuts, corroborating the lower concentration of polyphenols. None of the samples studied showed significant cytotoxicity in 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromideDAD: diode-array detection (MTT) assays. In vitro digestion altered the phytochemical profile in both plants, increasing the concentration of rutin in fresh and roasted chichá but only in raw peanuts. In roasted peanuts, rutin was converted into quercetin. Chichá nuts have been used by the local population for centuries, and the identification of their bioactive components can be useful to promote their benefits as a functional food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The adequate survival of probiotics in the harsh environment of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract plays a crucial role in the expression of their functional properties. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the survival of commercial probiotics during digestion using a standardised INFOGEST 2.0 model extended with three food matrices simulating three scenarios for the consumption of probiotics: on an empty stomach, with juice, or with food (porridge). All eight products matched the bacterial content stated on the label. After simulated digestion, we observed an average decrease in viability of 1.6 log10 colony forming units (CFU) when the product was co-digested with water, a 2.5 log10 CFU decrease in the presence of juice, and a 1.2 log10 CFU decrease in the presence of porridge. The survival rate of the probiotics was statistically higher in the test samples with porridge (91.8%) than in those with juice (79.0%). For two products, the number of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria strains after digestion was less than <3 × 105 CFU, which can be considered insufficient. The present study has shown that the survival of probiotic strains during GI passage depends not only on their ability to withstand these harsh conditions but may also be influenced by the manufacturing process and by the foods consumed together with the probiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to develop a technology for the production of plant-based burgers (PBBs) based on potato protein, also containing high content of iron and appropriately selected fats. The produced PBBs were characterized in terms of their nutritional and bioactive properties both before and after the in vitro digestion process. It was found that the produced burger was characterized by high protein content, ranging from 20.80 to 22.16 g/100 g. It was also shown to have a high dietary fiber content, ranging from 8.35 to 9.20 g/100 g. The main fraction of dietary fiber in the tested samples was insoluble fiber, which accounted for approximately 89% of the total fiber content. In addition, noteworthy is the high digestibility of the protein, reaching approximately 95% for the potato fiber used in the formulation, and about 85% for the oat fiber. Produced PBBs also provide significant amounts of iron, with the use of an organic iron source greatly increasing its quantity in the final product. The analyzed antioxidant properties before and after the digestion process showed a tenfold increase in biological activity after digestion, indicating that the examined PBBs may counteract oxidative stress. Analyzing the chemical and biological properties, it is impossible not to assess consumer attractiveness. It has been shown that PBB1, which contains potato fiber and powdered sprouts enriched with ferritin, received the highest attractiveness ratings among respondents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient development of effective functional foods and nutraceuticals requires adequate estimation methods of the bioaccessibility of their bioactive compounds. Specially grain-based nutraceuticals and functional ingredients are often enriched in bound/low bioavailable bioactive phytochemicals. The objective of this work was to evaluate the differences in applying static or dynamic digestion models for the estimation of bioaccessibility of antioxidants present in cereal grain-based/fiber-rich ingredients produced using enzymatic hydrolysis and sprouting processes. Main liberated phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity (ABTS•+ and ORAC) and ferric reducing capacity were evaluated in the samples following three digestion protocols with differences based on their dynamism: static, semi-dynamic and dynamic. The samples digested with the dynamic method showed higher antioxidant and reducing capacities than those digested with the static and semi-dynamic protocols. The results obtained from the digests with the dynamic model showed a total phenol content (TPs) ranging from 1068.22 to 1456.65 μmol GAE 100 g−1 and antioxidant capacity values from 7944.62 to 15,641.90 μmol TE 100 g−1 (ORAC) and from 8454.08 to 11,002.64 μmol TE 100 g−1 (ABTS•+), with a reducing power ranging from 2103.32 to 2679.78 mmol Fe reduced 100 g−1 (FRAP). The dynamic character of the protocols used for developing bioactive cereal-based foods significantly affects the estimation of their bioaccessibility, probably giving a better approach to their potential bioavailability in in vivo systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to design multilayer oil-in-water nanoemulsions using a layer-by-layer technique to enhance the stability of β-carotene and evaluate its effect on in vitro release and antioxidant activity. To prepare β-carotene-loaded multilayer nanoemulsions (NEs), a primary NE (PRI-NE) using Tween 20 was coated with chitosan (CS) for the secondary NE (SEC-CS), and with dextran sulfate (DS) and sodium alginate (SA) for the two types of tertiary NEs (TER-DS, TER-SA). The multilayer NEs ranged in particle size from 92 to 110 nm and exhibited high entrapment efficiency (92–99%). After incubation in a simulated gastrointestinal tract model, the release rate of free fatty acids decreased slightly after coating with CS, DS, and SA. The bioaccessibility of β-carotene was 7.02% for the PRI-NE, 7.96% for the SEC-CS, 10.88% for the TER-DS, and 10.25% for the TER-SA. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging abilities increased by 1.2 times for the multilayer NEs compared to the PRI-NE. In addition, the cellular antioxidant abilities improved by 1.8 times for the TER-DS (87.24%) compared to the PRI-NE (48.36%). Therefore, multilayer nanoemulsions are potentially valuable techniques to improve the stability, in vitro digestion, and antioxidant activity of β-carotene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNase II, identified in 1947 and named in 1953, is an acidic DNA endonuclease prevalent across organisms and crucial for normal growth. Despite its expression in nearly all human tissues, as well as its biological significance, DNase II's detailed functions and corresponding mechanisms remain unclear. Although many groups are trying to figure this out, progress is very limited. It is very hard to connect its indispensability with its DNA cleavage activity. In this study, we find that DNase II secreted to saliva can digest RNA in mildly acidic conditions, prompting us to hypothesize that salivary DNase II might digest RNA in the stomach. This finding is consistent with the interesting discovery reported in 1964 that RNA could inhibit DNase II's activity, which has been largely overlooked. This RNA digestion activity is further confirmed by using purified DNase II, showing activity to digest both DNA and RNA effectively. Here, we suggest redesignating DNase II as DNase II (RNase). The biological functions of DNase II are suggested to recycle intracellular RNA or digest external nucleic acids (both RNA and DNA) as nutrients. This discovery may untangle the mystery of DNase II and its significant biofunctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manihot esculenta Crantz (cassava) is an important food crop in developing nations, with its tubers and leaves being a source of ascorbic acid, thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin (vitamins) and calcium, iron, potassium, and zinc (minerals). Malnutrition prevalence in some Kenyan Counties that relied on cassava‐based diets has partly been attributed to processing methods and/or nutrient bioaccessibility. The study area Kilifi County grows Kibandameno and Tajirika cassava varieties and is on record for high prevalence of undernutrition. The levels of vitamins and minerals, and their bioaccessibility in raw, boiled, and deep‐fried tubers, and pounded then boiled leaves of Kibandameno and Tajirika cassava varieties were studied. Digestion was done using static gastrointestinal digestion prior to the determination of vitamins (by HPLC) and minerals (by AAS and AES). Bioaccessibility of both vitamins and minerals was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in boiled followed by deep‐fried and lowest in raw tubers. Bioaccessibility ranged between 27% (Fe)–85% (vitamin C) in boiled, 20% (Fe)–79% (vitamin B1) in deep‐fried, and 15% (Fe)–(72% (K) in raw tubers. Bioaccessibility in processed leaves was significantly higher (P < 0.001) than in raw. This ranged between 11% (Fe)–81% (vitamin B1) in processed and between 8% (Fe)–67% (K) in raw leaves. Processing therefore significantly reduced levels of ascorbic acid, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, calcium, iron, potassium, and zinc in raw tubers and leaves of Kibandameno and Tajirika Manihot esculenta Crantz varieties. Their bioaccessibility however significantly increased, being higher in tubers than in leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Science & Technology of Food Industry is the property of Science & Technology of Food Industry Editorial Office 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.)

Kelp is a traditional healthy food due to its high nutritional content; however, its relatively high contents of iodine and arsenic have raised concerns about its edible safety. This study explored the effects of different cooking treatments on the contents of iodine and arsenic in kelp, evaluated the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of iodine and arsenic in kelp using in vitro digestion, and compared the differences in the transport characteristics of iodine in kelp and KIO3 using a Caco-2 monolayer cell transport model. The results show that the content of target elements that reached systemic circulation could be reduced by cooking and gastrointestinal digestion. The highest reductions in iodine and arsenic were 94.4% and 74.7%, respectively, which were achieved by boiling for 10 min. The bioaccessibility and bioavailability of iodine and arsenic were significantly improved by a cooking treatment. However, the contents of iodine and arsenic decreased significantly, with the bioaccessibility of iodine reducing from 3188.2 μg/L to 317.0 μg/L and that of arsenic reducing from 32.5 μg/L to 18.1 μg/L in the gastric phase after boiling. The findings also show that the efficiency of iodine transport in kelp and KIO3 was positively correlated with the transport time and negatively correlated with the concentration of iodine. With the increase in the iodine concentration, the rate of iodine transport in kelp decreased from 63.93% to 3.14%, but that of KIO3 was stable at around 35%, which indicates that the absorption efficiency of iodine from kelp was limited, even when too much kelp was ingested. In conclusion, the edible safety of kelp is significantly improved after cooking. The risk of excessive iodine and arsenic intake caused by consuming kelp is extremely low, and as an effective iodine supplement source, kelp has higher edible safety compared with KIO3. This study clarifies the safety of algae based on iodine and arsenic contents and also provides a basis for the formulation of food safety standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIt is well known that the number of true truffles in the wild is decreasing. The aim of the study was to develop an effective, simple and affordable method of asci disruption to release black truffle spores. It was shown that the spore release can be achieved by different ways, such as mechanical or biological destruction. Mechanical homogenization of fruiting bodies using an immersion blender in tandem with a ball mill was shown to be effective and led to destruction of at least 85% of asci and release of spores. Also, the first approach we applied was the biological method of spore activation performed by African and grape snails. As a result of digestion of truffle fruiting bodies, the spores not only lost their protective shells, but also changed their morphology, which promoted their germination in vitro. The spores obtained using these two methods are capable of forming mycelial hyphae on nutrient media. The results of our study can be used to prepare inoculum of Tuber spp. and to obtain their pure cultures in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Upon stimulation of membrane receptors, nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) is formed as second messenger within seconds and evokes Ca2+ signaling in many different cell types. Here, to directly stimulate NAADP signaling, MASTER-NAADP, a Membrane permeAble, STabilized, bio-rEversibly pRotected precursor of NAADP is synthesized and release of its active NAADP mimetic, benzoic acid C-nucleoside, 2'-phospho-3'F-adenosine-diphosphate, by esterase digestion is confirmed. In the presence of NAADP receptor HN1L/JPT2 (hematological and neurological expressed 1-like protein, HN1L, also known as Jupiter microtubule-associated homolog 2, JPT2), this active NAADP mimetic releases Ca2+ and increases the open probability of type 1 ryanodine receptor. When added to intact cells, MASTER-NAADP initially evokes single local Ca2+ signals of low amplitude. Subsequently, also global Ca2+ signaling is observed in T cells, natural killer cells, and Neuro2A cells. In contrast, control compound MASTER-NADP does not stimulate Ca2+ signaling. Likewise, in cells devoid of HN1L/JPT2, MASTER-NAADP does not affect Ca2+ signaling, confirming that the product released from MASTER-NAADP is a bona fide NAADP mimetic. Upon stimulation of receptors, NAADP is formed as calcium-mobilizing second messenger in many cells. Here, the authors develop MASTER-NAADP, a membrane-permeant precursor of NAADP, and characterize its biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Beneficial effects from practising a Paleolithic diet as compared to a diabetes diet on weight, waist circumference, satiety, leptin, HbA1c and glucose control in randomised controlled trial participants with type 2 diabetes could be due to lower leptin resistance. Support for this hypothesis comes from an in vitro experiment that showed that digested wheat gluten, which is excluded from a Paleolithic diet, inhibits leptin from binding to its receptor, thus indicating a possible dietary cause of leptin resistance. However, the clinical relevance of the latter finding is unclear since removal of enzyme activity from the gluten digest by heat treatment also abolished leptin binding inhibition. Assessment of leptin binding inhibition in vivo is possible by comparison of total leptin levels with those of 'biologically active' leptin bound to its receptor (bioLep). Objectives: To assess the effects of a Paleolithic diet compared to a diabetes diet on leptin binding inhibition and to replicate our in vitro study. Methods: BioLep and total leptin levels were measured in secondary analysis of fasting plasma samples from our open label random order three plus three-month long cross-over trial performed in 2005–2007, that compared a Paleolithic diet with a diabetes diet in participants with type 2 diabetes without insulin treatment (per protocol). BioLep was also measured in vitro for known recombinant leptin concentrations incubated with a series of concentrations of 10 kDa spin-filtered digested wheat gluten, with or without prior heat treatment, at 100ºC for 30 min and centrifugation. Results: There was no difference between diets when comparing differences between bioLep and total leptin levels and their ratio in the 13 participants, three women and 10 men, aged 52–74 years with a mean BMI of 30 kg/m2 and a mean diabetes duration of eight years. We found no carry-over or period effect for bioLep and total leptin. In vitro, wheat gluten digest inhibited leptin binding in a dose-dependent manner but not after heat treatment. Conclusions: We found no leptin binding inhibition after the Paleolithic or diabetes diet, possibly due to its abolishment from cooking-related heat treatment of wheat gluten. Trial registration: Registered on 14/02/2007 at ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00435240. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Walnut green husk (WGH) is a waste byproduct from walnut industry. However, it is not well-known about its bioactive effect on human gut health. Methods: This study conducted in vitro digestion and fermentation experiments to study the bioactive effect of WGH. Results: Microbial fermentation was the primary mechanism to efficiently release phenolics and flavonoids, resulting in more excellent antioxidant capacities (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays), which reached a highest value with 14.82 ± 0.01 mg VcE/g DW, 3.47 ± 0.01 mmol TE/g DW, and 0.96 ± 0.07 mmol FeSO4·7H2O/g DW, respectively. The surface microstructure of WGH became loose and fragmented after microbial fermentation. The analytical results of gut microbiota demonstrated that WGH could significantly increase the relative abundance of Proteobacteria in phylum level and Phascolarctobacterium in genus level while certain pro-inflammatory bacteria (such as Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, Dorea, Alistipes, and Bilophila) was inhibited. Additionally, 1,373 differential metabolites were identified and enriched in 283 KEGG pathways. Of which some metabolites were significantly upregulated including ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, umbelliferone, scopolin, muricholic acid, and so forth. Discussion: These results indicated that WGH could have antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities in the human gut, which could improve the economical value of WGH in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies aiming to understand the effects of storage on whole blood (WB) clotting often rely on characterizing coagulation under static conditions. Minimal work has explored the effects of physiologic shear on clot formation and thrombolysis utilizing fractionated and reconstituted whole blood (rWB) products. WB was fractionated into platelet‐free plasma, packed red blood cells, and platelets storing each component under its ideal conditions—including platelet cryopreservation. Recombination at their native ratios was accomplished over 91 days of storage and clotting/thrombolysis was analyzed utilizing thromboelastography and Chandler loop. rWB preserved clot strength through 91 days with minimal deviation from baseline, in contrast to WB stored at 4°C which experienced a significant decline by storage Day‐42. Clot formation under shear for both rWB and WB led to increased clot mass through storage. No significant deviation from baseline was appreciated until Day 70 of storage in rWB. Increasing degrees of thrombolysis were seen in both groups, with rWB significantly deviating from baseline at Day 70. No significant changes in overall clot architecture occurred throughout storage and recombination. This fractionation and recombination protocol serves as a method to further develop reproducible in vitro clot analogs for preclinical thrombolytic therapy screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst increasing awareness of diet-health relationships, plant-derived bioactive peptides are recognized for their dual nutritional and health benefits. This study investigates bioactive peptides released after Alcalase hydrolysis of protein from chachafruto (Erythrina edulis), a nutrient-rich South American leguminous plant, focusing on their behavior during simulated gastrointestinal digestion. Evaluating their ability to scavenge radicals, mitigate oxidative stress, and influence immune response biomarkers, this study underscores the importance of understanding peptide interactions in digestion. The greatest contribution to the antioxidant activity was exerted by the low molecular weight peptides with ORAC values for the <3 kDa fraction of HES, GD-HES, and GID-HES of 0.74 ± 0.03, 0.72 ± 0.004, and 0.56 ± 0.01 (μmol TE/mg protein, respectively). GD-HES and GID-HES exhibited immunomodulatory effects, promoting the release of NO up to 18.52 and 8.58 µM, respectively. The findings of this study highlighted the potential of chachafruto bioactive peptides in functional foods and nutraceuticals, supporting human health through dietary interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on developing an effective cell wall-breaking method for Phaffia rhodozyma, followed by utilizing subcritical fluid extraction to isolate, extract, and concentrate astaxanthin from the complex fermentation products of P. rhodozyma. A comprehensive comparison of seven distinct methods for disrupting cell walls, including dimethyl sulfoxide treatment, lactic acid treatment, sodium hydroxide treatment, β-glucanase enzymatic digestion, β-mannanase enzymatic digestion, and a combined enzymatic treatment involving both β-mannanase and β-glucanase was conducted. The results identified the lactic acid method as the most effective in disrupting the cell walls of P. rhodozyma. The software, Design Expert, was used in the process of extracting astaxanthin from cell lysates using a subcritical extraction method. Through fitting analysis and response surface optimization analysis by Design Expert, the optimal extraction conditions were determined as follows: an extraction temperature of 41 °C, extraction frequency of two times, and extraction time of 46 min. These parameters facilitated the efficient extraction, concentration, and enrichment of astaxanthin from P. rhodozyma, resulting in an astaxanthin concentration of 540.00 mg/L. This result can establish the foundation for its high-value applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing production and use of plastics significantly contribute to microplastics (MPs) contamination in the environment. Humans are exposed to MPs primarily through the gastrointestinal route, as these particles are present in beverages and food, e.g., sugar. Effective isolation and identification of MPs from food is essential for their elimination. This study aimed to evaluate factors influencing the isolation of MPs from sucrose solutions to determine optimal conditions for the process. Polyethylene particles were used to test separation methods involving chemical digestion with acids and filtration through membrane filters made of nylon, mixed cellulose ester, and cellulose acetate with pore sizes of 0.8 and 10 µm. The effects of temperature and acid type and its concentration on plastic particles were examined using scanning electron microscopy and µ-Raman spectroscopy. The results indicate that increased temperature reduces solution viscosity and sucrose adherence to MPs' particles, while higher acid concentrations accelerate sucrose hydrolysis. The optimal conditions for MPs' isolation were found to be 5% HCl at 70 °C for 5 min, followed by filtration using an efficient membrane system. These conditions ensure a high recovery and fast filtration without altering MPs' surface properties, providing a reliable basis for further analysis of MPs in food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. To improve the results of surgical treatment for patients with severe non-cancerous diseases of the colon by developing and implementing the new type of pelvic small intestine reservoirs. Materials and methods. A new type of pelvic small intestine reservoirs has been developed and introduced into clinical practice to improve processes of intestinal digestion, absorption, anal retention after radical surgery for ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease with total colon involvement, familial adenomatous polyposis. Each of the reservoirs has been adapted to anatomical relationships between the small intestine and the debuccalized surgical anal canal depending on a radical surgery extent and a functional state of the small intestine. Pelvic small intestine reservoirs of a new type were used in 39 patients of the main study group, 21 (53.8 %) men and 18 (46.2 %) women. The patients' age ranged from 21 to 43 years. The comparison group consisted of 42 patients. The patient groups were identical in terms of sex, age, diagnosis and complications of the underlying disease. Patients in the comparison group differed in that they underwent the well-known "J"-shaped pelvic small intestine reservoir procedures. Results. The number of postoperative complications was statistically significantly higher in patients of the comparison group due to acute and chronic complications, 33.2 % and 10.4 %, respectively. Indicators of intestinal digestion, absorption and anal retention were statistically significantly better in the majority of patients of the study group. The number of patients with I (mild) degree of pathological post-colectomy syndrome was significantly higher in the study group, and the number of patients with diarrheal syndrome and secondary anal incontinence syndrome was significantly lower. Positive results after the introduction of a new type of pelvic small intestine reservoirs were obtained by applying the following basic principles of their formation: the use of only known factors of physiological delay in the passage of contents through the small intestine, preservation of the small intestine wall anatomical integrity, location of the small intestine reservoir at a certain distance from the upper border of the rectal sphincters, as well as the reasonable expediency of choosing a method of forming the pelvic small intestine reservoir depending on the patient's anatomy. Conclusions. The use of physiological factors of delayed passage of the contents in the small intestine, small intestine wall anatomical integrity preservation in the formation of pelvic small intestine reservoirs of the new type, the reservoir location at a certain distance from the upper border of the rectal sphincters has resulted in significant improvements in the functions of intestinal digestion, absorption, and anal retention. Practical application of the new type of pelvic small intestine reservoirs has helped to significantly decrease the incidence of postoperative complications from 33.2 % to 10.4 %, increase the number of patients with post-colectomy syndrome of the I (mild) degree from 47.4 % to 86.4 %, reduce the number of patients with diarrheal syndrome from 55.3 % to 8.1 %, and secondary anal incontinence syndrome from 36.8 % to 5.4 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the main sources of plant protein, it is important to improve the protein digestibility of legumes. Faced with population growth and increasing environmental pressures, it is essential to find a green approach. Germination meets this requirement, and in the process of natural growth, some enzymes are activated to make dynamic changes in the protein itself; at the same time, other substances (especially anti-nutrient factors) can also be degraded by enzymes or their properties (water solubility, etc.), thereby reducing the binding with protein, and finally improving the protein digestibility of beans under the combined influence of these factors The whole process is low-carbon, environmentally friendly and safe. Therefore, this paper summarizes this process to provide a reference for the subsequent development of soybean functional food, especially the germination of soybean functional food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study explored the effects of different caffeine doses on nutrient digestion and fermentation in a simulated rumen environment. The main goal was to improve our understanding of how caffeine might influence these important metabolic processes in the rumen when a lactating cow diet is used. Here, we report that a dose of caffeine (50 ppm) improved the digestibility of dry/organic matter and starch while reducing the protozoa numbers and ammonia concentration, which are related to ruminal protein metabolism. However, higher caffeine doses (above 50 ppm) began to negatively impact these parameters. Our observations suggest that caffeine, a naturally occurring compound in several plants such as coffee, cacao, and tea, could potentially be used to enhance digestion and fermentation in ruminants. This research is valuable to our understanding of anaerobic fermentation in the rumen as it demonstrates the use of this plant secondary metabolite to enhance nutrient utilization and milk production and other benefits to management and the environment. Caffeine is a plant secondary metabolite, commonly known for its bioactivity properties. This molecule increases microbial activity during anaerobic digestion. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of caffeine doses on the rumen fermentation profile and nutrient digestibility when continuous culture fermenters were fed a lactating cow's diet. We hypothesize that adding caffeine doses into continuous culture fermenters with a rumen fluid inoculum will not affect anaerobic fermentation or nutrient utilization. Fermenters were fed twice a day (at 0800 and 2000 h) with an experimental diet of high-producing dairy cows (53.55 g/DM day; Forage:Concentrate ratio, F:C of 40:60). Four levels of caffeine (0 ppm, 50 ppm, 100 ppm, and 150 ppm) were added to the diets as a treatment. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design. Two blocks of four fermenters were run in two replicated periods of ten days. Statistical analyses were conducted in SAS version 9.4 for Windows (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA) using the GLIMMIX procedure. The addition of caffeine at a 50 ppm dose on continuous culture fermentation decreased the protozoal counts (Diplodinium spp.) (p = 0.03) and ammonia concentrations (p < 0.05). A treatment of 50 ppm of caffeine increased the DM, OM, and starch digestibility (p < 0.05). When caffeine doses increased further than 50 ppm, the OM, DM, and starch digestibility decreased linearly (p = 0.01). The total volatile fatty acids and fatty acid proportions were unaffected. However, the acetate-to-propionate ratio (A:P) tended to decrease linearly among treatments (p = 0.07). The means of pH measurements and maximum pH had a significantly linear decrease effect (p < 0.01). Caffeine may represent a potential rumen fermentation modifier for use in lactating cow diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to understand the influence of diet and nutrition items on gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with Hirschsprung Disease (HD). Method: An online questionnaire was created to obtain patient-reported outcomes using the multinational Holistic Care in Hirschsprung Disease Network. This was distributed in Dutch, English, German, Italian, Polish, and Swedish via patient associations. Information on demographics, the extension of disease, current diet, and the influence of food ingredients on bowel function were obtained. Results: In total, 563 questionnaires were answered by parents or patients themselves. The length of the aganglionic segment was short in 33%, long in 45%, total colonic aganglionosis (TCA) in 11%, and involved the small intestine in 10%. Overall, 90% reported following a mixed diet, and 31% reported taking probiotics, with twice as many patients taking probiotics in the TCA group compared to standard HD. Mealtimes and behaviours around eating were affected by 61%, while 77% had established food items that worsened symptoms, and of these, 80% stated that they had worked these items out themselves. A high-fibre diet was followed by 24% and 18% a low-fibre diet. Symptoms were reported, particularly from dairy in 30%, fruits in 39%, pulses in 54%, and sugar in 48%. Conclusions: This first multinational survey on diet and bowel function in HD reports an association between certain dietary items with gastrointestinal symptoms. This study can support an improved understanding of the interaction between food items and bowel function in children with HD. We suggest a multidisciplinary approach to balance dietary exclusions and support adequate growth, preventing nutrition deficiencies and enhancing quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing field of gut–brain axis research offers significant potential to revolutionize medical practices and improve human well-being. Neutrophils have emerged as key players in gut–brain inflammation, contributing to the relocation of inflammatory cells from the gut to the brain and exacerbating neuroinflammation in conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and neurodegenerative diseases. The intricate network of molecular and functional connections that interlinks the brain with the gastrointestinal system is characterized by complex signaling pathways. Understanding the complex interplay among the microbiota, gut, and brain offers unparalleled opportunities to develop novel therapeutic interventions for neurological disorders and improve overall health outcomes. The aim of this review was to comprehensively summarize current knowledge and future perspectives regarding the multifaceted role of neutrophils and their impact on the neuroimmune dynamics in the context of the gut–brain axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whey protein contains a wide range of bioactive components and has been found to have various functional properties including immunoenhancing, antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, antidiabetic, muscle loss-preventing, and skin-protecting effects. However, as a high-quality dietary protein that can benefit human health, its application in health foods is restricted by particular product types and insufficient innovation. Therefore, this article provides a systematic and comprehensive review of the composition, digestion, absorption, metabolism, and functions of whey protein and its application in health products in China. This review hopes to improve the public’s understanding of the nutritional value of whey protein, broaden its application scope as a health product, and promote its applications in functional foods and clinical formulations and consequently the high-quality development of the health industry.

Objective: to study the features of the digestive system in children with reactive asthenic syndrome and correction of disorders using a comprehensive integration program.Materials and methods: a prospective cohort non-randomized study of 419 children of primary school age was conducted. The main group consists of 128 children living in the territory of active hostilities. Control group — 291 children outside the zone of active hostilities. A full examination was carried out before and 6 months after the start of the comprehensive integration rehabilitation program. All children were collected complaints, anamnesis, analysis of outpatient records, objective examination, examination of the motor-evacuation function of the gastrointestinal tract.Results: all children of the main group had complaints from the digestive system. 97 (75.78%) children were concerned about decreased appetite; 79 (61.72%) — stool disorders. Functional disorders were registered in 80 (62.50%) children of the main group, organic pathology — in 62 (48.44%). Among functional abnormalities, functional disorders of the biliary tract were in the first place (in 65 (50.78%) people). Among the organic pathology — diseases of the stomach and 12-duodenum (in 59 (46.09%) children). Peripheral electrogastroenterography revealed in most children of the main group non-impulsive contractions and discoordination of motor skills of varying degrees of severity in all parts of the gastrointestinal tract.Conclusions: the implementation of complex rehabilitation measures optimized the studied indicators with more pronounced effectiveness in children evacuated from active combat zones.

It is well known that the number of true truffles in the wild is decreasing. The aim of the study was to develop an effective, simple and affordable method of asci disruption to release black truffle spores. It was shown that the spore release can be achieved by different ways, such as mechanical or biological destruction. Mechanical homogenization of fruiting bodies using an immersion blender in tandem with a ball mill was shown to be effective and led to destruction of at least 85% of asci and release of spores. Also, the first approach we applied was the biological method of spore activation performed by African and grape snails. As a result of digestion of truffle fruiting bodies, the spores not only lost their protective shells, but also changed their morphology, which promoted their germination in vitro. The spores obtained using these two methods are capable of forming mycelial hyphae on nutrient media. The results of our study can be used to prepare inoculum of Tuber spp. and to obtain their pure cultures in agriculture.

Dietary fiber improves metabolic health, but host-encoded mechanisms for digesting fibrous polysaccharides are unclear. In this work, we describe a mammalian adaptation to dietary chitin that is coordinated by gastric innate immune activation and acidic mammalian chitinase (AMCase). Chitin consumption causes gastric distension and cytokine production by stomach tuft cells and group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) in mice, which drives the expansion of AMCase-expressing zymogenic chief cells that facilitate chitin digestion. Although chitin influences gut microbial composition, ILC2-mediated tissue adaptation and gastrointestinal responses are preserved in germ-free mice. In the absence of AMCase, sustained chitin intake leads to heightened basal type 2 immunity, reduced adiposity, and resistance to obesity. These data define an endogenous metabolic circuit that enables nutrient extraction from an insoluble dietary constituent by enhancing digestive function.

The valorisation of biomass generated along the agri-food chain into co-products represents a valid approach to produce alternative and sustainable feed ingredients. Although to date, some co-products have already been included in the diets of livestock animals, the characterisation of hemp co-products (Cannabis sativa L.) is still at an early stage. For this, the aim of this this work was to investigate the nutritional and functional profile [total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (ABTS, FRAP)] of hemp co-products [mix flowers and leaves (MFL), hulls (HLs) and hempseeds cake], after green chemical extraction (0% EtOH; 50% EtOH; 100% EtOH) and ex vivo digestion process. High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography was performed on 50% EtOH chemical extracts to identify the main phenolic compounds. The results reported an interesting nutritional profile, although dependent on the processing to obtain the co-product. The functional aspect of the chemical extracts showed a higher TPC for MFL, especially after 50% EtOH extraction (3551.12 ± 98.54 mg TAE/100 g) identifying Quercetin, Kaempferol, Rutin, Chlorogenic acid, Ferulic acid, Cannabigerol and α-tocopherol as the main compounds present, a profile similar to that of HLs. This was also observed for ABTS (6950.10 ± 546.82 mg TE/100 g) and FRAP (130.05 ± 4.67 mg FeSO4/100 g). Ex vivo digestion confirmed the high functional profile of the two matrices. Despite this, it is important to emphasise that processing co-products are characterised by a high variability that may lead to different results and effects on the health and performance of monogastric animals.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with organic selenium (OR-Se) and/or vitamins C and E on the rectal temperature (Rectal-T), growth performance, carcase yield, intestinal morphology, plasma thyroid hormone levels, and antioxidant status of broilers reared in hot environmental conditions. Under heat stress conditions (29.4 to 33.6 °C), 360 Arbour Acres chicks were fed in a (2 × 3) factorial design with two dietary levels of organic selenium (0 and 0.6 mg/kg) and three dietary levels of a mix of vitamins C and E (0, 200 and 250 mg/kg). Chicks were randomly assigned to six treatments (T) with three replicates of 20 birds each: the 1st group (T1): basal diet with no supplementation (control group); the 2nd group (T2): basal diet supplemented with 0.6 mg OR-Se/kg; the 3rd group (T3): basal diet with a mixture of vitamins C and E, 200 mg of each/kg diet (Vita-Mix A); the 4th group (T4): basal diet with a mixture of vitamins C and E, 250 mg of each/kg diet (Vita-Mix B); the 5th group (T5): basal diet with (Vita-Mix A) + 0.6 mg OR-Se/kg diet; the 6th group (T6): basal diet with Vita-Mix B and 0.6 mg OR-Se/kg diet for a five-week feeding period. Results showed that chicks fed diets supplemented with OR-Se and/or vitamins (C, E) had lower (p

Eating is a pleasure and a universal human experience. However, both the positive aspects of eating and the nature of happiness have only recently become subjects of psychological research. What connections can be found between eating and positive emotions? What insights does gastro-psychology, a relatively young discipline, provide on this topic? For humans, food has served not only as a means of survival but also as a source of pleasure. Nutrients ingested through food can exert a relatively rapid effect on our mood, and conversely, our mood can influence our digestion. It is important to be more aware of the potential pleasure-enhancing effects of food, cooking, and eating. Therefore, it is advisable to become as fluent as possible in one’s “gastronomic mother tongue”, while also acquiring some knowledge of a “gastronomic foreign language”. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the changes of active components in Polygonatum sibiricum extract and its regulation on intestinal flora by in vitro simulated digestion combined with 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing technology. Methods: P. sibiricum extract was prepared by heating reflux method. The contents of polysaccharides, saponins and flavonoids in P. sibiricum extract before and after simulated digestion in vitro were determined, and its inhibitory ability on α-glucosidase was investigated. The effect of P. sibiricum extract on intestinal flora was analyzed based on 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing. Results: The P. sibiricum extract contained polysaccharides, saponins and flavonoids, and the contents were 0.4732, 0.0632 and 0.0754 mg/mL, respectively. After in vitro simulated digestion, the contents of polysaccharides, saponins and flavonoids were significantly reduced (P

Fish are generally classified as herbivorous, carnivorous, omnivorous, or filter-feeders according to feeding habits, including the feeding method and food content. The feeding habits of fish are reflected in their digestive organ, mainly the intestine. The intestine tract is the main site for digestion and nutritional uptake, and it is regarded as a key organ in fish nutrition. Reportedly, fish gut microbiota contributes to digestion and affect gastrointestinal tract development as well as the overall growth of the fish. The disruption of the intestinal microbiota induced by their feeding habit via diet usually affects the digestive functions of the host through disturbance in bacterial digestive enzyme production. Feeding habits determine the feed composition, which shapes the microbial communities in fish. For example, diet has been reported as a dominant cause of variation in the microbiota composition of rainbow trout. In contrast, feeding habit, which is regulated by many factors, including intrinsic and external factors, such as appetite, structure of the digestive tract, and feed palatability, is an important area of research in the intestinal microflora study. The feeding habit of fishes is one of the main factors affecting the differential colonization of fish intestinal flora. For example, the feeding habit increases the colonization of fish intestinal flora in the order omnivorous > herbivorous > carnivorous. It is also known that feeding habits influence intestinal digestion and structure. However, the influence of feeding habit on proximate composition, digestive enzyme secretion, and intestinal histomorphology is currently not well-known in fish. On the contrary, the feeding habit affects the composition and diversity of the intestinal microflora of fish. The composition and diversity of the microbiota in Carassius auratus, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Siniperca chuatsi, and Schizothorax grahami from the same environment have also not previously been studied. The present study aimed to compare and analyze the differences in the composition and diversity of the intestinal microflora of four fish species, investigating the relationship between their feeding habits and intestinal microflora as well. This study collected 12 intestine samples from each of the four fishes with different feeding habits, including omnivorous (C. auratus), herbivorous (C. idella), filter-feeder (S. chuatsi), and carnivorous (S. grahami), from the same pond. The composition and diversity of the microbial communities were determined by using high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA. Meanwhile, this study investigated the effects of feeding habits on the composition and diversity of the intestinal microflora of fish and predicted the potential functions of specific microflora with different nutrients. The results showed that the diversity of the intestinal microflora in fish was significantly affected by feeding habit (P < 0.05), such that higher levels occurred in the order omnivorous (C. auratus) > herbivorous (C. idella) > filter-feeder (S. grahami) > carnivorous (S. chuatsi). Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were the common dominant flora among the four fishes, although there were differences at the genera and species levels. For example, Acinetobacter and Bacteroides species were the most dominant flora in S. chuatsi and C. idella, respectively. Function prediction showed that the intestinal tract of S. chuatsi was mainly gram-negative. The disease resistance potential of C. idella was slightly higher than that of the other three fish species. Acinetobacter johnsonii, Acinetobacter lwoffii, and Pseudomonas stutzeri might help the host to digest protein, while Bacteroidetes may help the host to digest cellulose. In conclusion, feeding habit is one of the main factors affecting the differential colonization of fish intestinal flora. Analyzing the correlation between feeding habits and dominant intestinal flora as well as exploring the function of specific flora, could lay a theoretical foundation for studying the microbial effect of fish nutrition metabolism.