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Aim/Background: Osteosarcoma is one of the prevalent cancers occurring mostly in adolescents and has a high risk of malignancy. With complications involved in the current treatment strategies, alternates including the use of phytochemicals have gained fame. Cranberries are known for their exceptional health benefits and have been explored for their effective activities in various cancers. The current study aimed at evaluating the anti-cancer properties of cranberry juice concentrate (CJC) on MG-63 cell line for human osteosarcoma, by investigating its apoptotic activity through changes in cell viability and mitochondrial membrane potential. Materials and Methods: Cranberry juice concentrate was obtained by pulverization and lyophilization. The MG-63 cells were treated with 12.5-800 µg/mL of the CJC and incubated for 24, 48, and 72 hr. The percentage cell viability and IC50 values were obtained. The mitochondrial membrane potential and nuclear changes were examined. The induction of apoptosis was studied by flow cytometer using BD cell Quest 7.5.3 software. GraphPad Prism was used for statistical analysis with significant p-value at <0.05. Results: The IC50 values obtained for CJC were 847.9, 637.4, and 440.6 µg/mL for 24, 48, and 72 hr respectively. Change in the mitochondrial membrane potential and nuclear morphology was observed following incubation with CJC. Flow cytometric analysis shows cells detected at early and late apoptoic stages after treatment with CJC. Conclusion: Our result suggests that CJC has significant effects on MG-63 osteosarcoma cells and can be considered to supplement conventional therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicobacter pylori infection is one of the most common chronic bacterial infections. Cranberry has been suggested for H. pylori eradication. We aimed to conduct the first meta-analysis to summarise current evidence on effects of cranberry supplementation on H. pylori eradication in H. pylori positive subjects. We searched the online databases up to December 2020. Four randomised clinical trials (RCT) were included with human subjects, investigating the effect of cranberry on H. pylori eradication. The pooled results were expressed as the OR with 95 % CI. Based on five effect sizes with a total sample size of 1935 individuals, we found that according to the OR, there was a positive effect of cranberry supplementation on H. pylori eradication, increasing the chance of H. pylori eradication by 1·27 times, but this relationship was not statistically significant (overall OR: 1·27; 95 % CI 0·63, 2·58). The results also indicated the moderate between-study heterogeneity (I2 = 63·40 %; P = 0·03) of the studies. However, there were no significant differences in some subgroup analyses in the duration of treatment, the duration of follow-up and the Jadad score. Our findings revealed that although cranberry had a positive effect on H. pylori eradication in adults, this effect was not statistically significant. Due to the small number of included studies and moderate heterogeneities, the potential of cranberry supplementation on H. pylori eradication should be validated in large, multicentre and well-designed RCT in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cranberry, a polyphenol-rich functional food, is commonly used for the prophylaxis of urinary tract infections. Gefitinib, an anticancer agent clinically prescribed to treat non-small-cell lung cancer, is a substrate of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), and metabolized mainly by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 and CYP2D6. This study used gefitinib as a probe substrate to investigate the modulation of cranberry on P-gp, BCRP, CYP3A4 and CYP2D6. Rats were administered gefitinib with and without 5.0 g/kg of cranberry as juice (CJ). The concentration of gefitinib in serum was determined by LC-MS/MS. The results showed that CJ significantly increased the Cmax and AUC0-t of gefitinib by 28% and 55%, respectively. Mechanism studies indicated that CJ activated P-gp, and cranberry metabolites (CM) inhibited CYP2D6. Moreover, the protein level of P-gp in rat enterocytes was decreased, whereas that in hepatocytes was increased. In addition, the protein levels of BCRP, CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 in enterocytes and hepatocytes were decreased. In conclusion, CJ ingestion affected the activities and protein levels of P-gp, BCRP, CYP3A4 and CYP2D6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of clinical trials support the use of standardized cranberry supplement products for prevention of urinary tract infections; however, products that are not well-characterized for sufficient levels of bioactive components may contribute to negative clinical outcomes. Cranberry supplements for consumer use are not regulated and can be formulated different ways using cranberry juice, pomace or various combinations. This can lead to consumer confusion regarding effectiveness of individual products. The current study compared two commercial supplement products, one made from cranberry juice extract and the other from a blend of whole cranberry. The influence of formulation and proanthocyanidin (PAC) solubility on in vitro and ex vivo P-fimbriated Escherichia coli bacterial anti-adhesion activity (AAA) was determined. Both supplement products as well as whole, frozen cranberries were chromatographically separated into crude polyphenolic, sugar and acid fractions. In vitro AAA testing of all fractions confirmed that only those containing soluble PACs elicited activity. The cranberry juice extract product had higher soluble PAC content than the whole cranberry blended product, which contained mainly insoluble PACs. The influence of soluble and insoluble PAC levels in each product on the urinary (ex vivo) AAA was determined following ingestion. The juice extract product was associated with significantly higher urinary AAA than that of the whole berry blended product when consumed once daily over the 1-week intervention period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whitish blisters covered by a hymenium layer were found on the leaves of two Ericaceae plants, Vaccinium japonicum and Rhododendron lagopus var. niphophilum, in Shiramine, Ishikawa, Japan. Based on the morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic analyses, the pathogens found in V. japonicum and R. lagopus var. niphophilum were identified as Exobasidium rostrupii and Exobasidium yoshinagae, respectively. This is the first report of E. rostrupii and Exobasidium leaf blisters in two plants in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To provide a critical analysis of evidence describing the implementation and effectiveness of cranberry products for the prevention of urinary tract infections in the setting of residential aged care. Methods: A critical analysis of the literature. Results: The current evidence indicates that cranberry products decrease the occurrence of urinary tract infections in aged care residents who are likely to benefit from the use of cranberry products as a preventative measure; however, some of the results were limited and contradictory, because of gaps and insufficient research in relation to the active ingredients of cranberries – proanthocyanins. Conclusion: This critical analysis demonstrates benefits in the use of cranberry products in the prevention of urinary tract infections for residents of aged care facilities. Further research and education on preventative measures could potentially lower the use of antibiotics and the incidence of urinary tract infections in residential aged care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Forest berry plants are popular on the food market and in pharmacy for their high nutritional and medicinal value. Plantations of forest berry plants can proliferate on unused lands, including depleted peatlands. Clonal micropropagation is the most effective method for obtaining large quantities of high quality planting material. Light-emitting diodes are highly effective for clonal micropropagation. The research objective was to study the effect of different spectral ranges on the process of root formation of forest berry plants in vitro. Study objects and methods. The research featured regenerant plants of half-highbush blueberry, arctic bramble, American cranberry, European cranberry, lingonberry, and Kamchatka bilberry of different cultivars. A set of experiments made it possible to study the effect of lighting type on the growth and development of the root system of forest berry plants in vitro using white fluorescent lamps, white spectrum LED lamps, and LED lamps with a combination of white, red, and blue spectra at the in vitro rooting stage of clonal micropropagation. Results and its discussion. The largest number (3.4–14.6 pcs.) and the maximum total length (10.0–156.9 cm) of roots were observed under LED lamps with a combination of white, red, and blue spectra. The effect was by 1.1–2.8 and 2.0–4.5 times higher than in the case of white-spectrum LED lamps, and by 2.3–7.0 and 3.3–14.9 times than in the case of fluorescent lamps. Variety and shape proved to have no significant effect on biometric indicators. Conclusion. LED lamps had a positive effect on the process of rhizogenesis of forest berry plants during clonal micropropagation. They appeared to be more effective than fluorescent lamps. The combination of white, blue, and red spectra increased the biometric parameters of plants at the stage of in vitro rooting.

ABSTRACT Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) ecology-pathophysiology from the gut reservoir to its urothelium infection site is poorly understood, resulting in equivocal benefits in the use of cranberry as prophylaxis against urinary tract infections. To add further understanding from the previous findings on PAC antiadhesive properties against UPEC, we assessed in this study the effects of proanthocyanidins (PAC) rich cranberry extract microbial metabolites on UTI89 virulence and fitness in contrasting ecological UPEC’s environments. For this purpose, we developed an original model combining a colonic fermentation system (SHIME) with a dialysis cassette device enclosing UPEC and a 3D tissue-engineered urothelium. Two healthy fecal donors inoculated the colons. Dialysis cassettes containing 7log10 CFU/mL UTI89 were immersed for 2h in the SHIME colons to assess the effect of untreated (7-day control diet)/treated (14-day PAC-rich extract) metabolomes on UPEC behavior. Engineered urothelium were then infected with dialysates containing UPEC for 6 h. This work demonstrated for the first time that in the control fecal microbiota condition without added PAC, the UPEC virulence genes were activated upstream the infection site, in the gut. However, PAC microbial-derived cranberry metabolites displayed a remarkable propensity to blunt activation of genes encoding toxin, adhesin/invasins in the gut and on the urothelium, in a donor-dependent manner. Variability in subjects’ gut microbiota and ensuing contrasting cranberry PAC metabolism affects UPEC virulence and should be taken into consideration when designing cranberry efficacy clinical trials. IMPORTANCE Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are the primary cause of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI). The poor understanding of UPEC ecology-pathophysiology from its reservoir–the gut, to its infection site–the urothelium, partly explains the inadequate and abusive use of antibiotics to treat UTI, which leads to a dramatic upsurge in antibiotic-resistance cases. In this context, we evaluated the effect of a cranberry proanthocyanidins (PAC)-rich extract on the UPEC survival and virulence in a bipartite model of a gut microbial environment and a 3D urothelium model. We demonstrated that PAC-rich cranberry extract microbial metabolites significantly blunt activation of UPEC virulence genes at an early stage in the gut reservoir. We also showed that altered virulence in the gut affects infectivity on the urothelium in a microbiota-dependent manner. Among the possible mechanisms, we surmise that specific microbial PAC metabolites may attenuate UPEC virulence, thereby explaining the preventative, yet contentious properties of cranberry against UTI.

Objective: Despite conflicting evidence, it is common practice to use continuous antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP) in patients with indwelling double-J (DJ) stents. Cranberry extracts and d-mannose have been shown to prevent colonization of the urinary tract. We evaluated their role in this setting. Methods: We conducted a prospective randomized study to evaluate patients with indwelling DJ stents following urological procedures. They were randomized into three groups. Group A (n=46) received CAP (nitrofurantoin 100 mg once daily [OD]). Group B (n=48) received cranberry extract 300 mg and d-mannose 600 mg twice daily (BD). Group C (n=40) received no prophylaxis. The stents were removed between 15 days and 45 days after surgery. Three groups were compared in terms of colonization of stent and urine, stent related symptoms and febrile urinary tract infections (UTIs) during the period of indwelling stent and until 1 week after removal. Results: In Group A, 9 (19.5%) patients had significant bacterial growth on the stents. This was 8 (16.7%) in the Group B and 5 (12.5%) in Group C (p-value: 0.743). However, the culture positivity rate of urine specimens showed a significant difference (p-value: 0.023) with Group B showing least colonization of urine compared to groups A and C. There was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of stent related symptoms (p-value: 0.242) or febrile UTIs (p-value: 0.399) among the groups. Conclusion: Prophylactic agents have no role in altering bacterial growth on temporary indwelling DJ stent, stent related symptoms or febrile UTIs. Cranberry extract may reduce the colonization of urinary tract, but its clinical significance needs further evaluation.

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) dietary supplementation can help prevention of urinary tract infections through the supply of proanthocyanidin-type polyphenols (PAC). The main uropathogenic bacteria are members of the intestinal microbiota. A randomized cross-over experiment was done to investigate whether cranberry dietary supplementation affects concentrations of thermotolerant coliforms, Enterococcus spp. and Lactobacillus spp. in rat faeces. Thirteen rats, housed in individual cages, received successively two diets as pellets during 7 days each: a standard diet without polyphenols and the standard diet supplemented with cranberry powder containing 10.9 mg/100 g of PAC. There was a 7 days wash-out period in between with standard diet without polyphenols. Body weight and feed intake were recorded. Faeces were collected on the last day of treatment, and crushed to count the different bacterial populations using the most probable number method. Thermotolerant coliforms were grown in BGBLB tubes and on MacConkey agar. Enterococcus spp. were grown in Rothe and Litsky broths and on KF Streptococcus agar. Lactobacillus spp. were grown in Man Rogosa Sharpe broth. Body mass gains were not affected by cranberry supplementation. This is consistent with equal food intake, cranberry powder not providing significant energy supplement. Cranberry dietary supplementation was associated with changes in fecal concentrations of thermotolerant coliforms, and Enterococcus spp. in some rats, but did not induce significant changes in bacterial fecal concentrations in a global population of 13 rats. In conclusion, we did not observe any significant effect of dietary cranberry supplementation on the fecal microbiota of Wistars rats for a 7-day diet.

ABSTRACT Cranberries and blueberries are small fruits known for their antioxidant properties. However, due to their high water content and short shelf life, they are generally marketed as dehydrated berries. The present work aimed to model the rehydration of dehydrated berries. Rehydration tests were conducted at 7 and 29°C using milk as a solvent and at 7, 29, and 45°C when the solvent was water. The mass gain was assessed at different intervals, and the experimental data were fitted to the Fick model considering the berries as spheres. Six empirical/semi-empirical models describing the diffusion of water during drying were used to predict the rehydration process. Fick’s law satisfactorily represented the data, and the highest diffusion coefficients were found when the berries were rehydrated in water at 45°C. Rehydration of berries in milk resulted in nutrient gain as different diffusive flows occurred during the process. The use of empirical models to predict the operating time of the rehydration processes allows flexibility as such models are mathematically simpler than the Fick model. Diffusivity is essential for the design/construction of equipment, and/or process optimization and implementation.

Background and Aim: The vast applications of nanotechnology in various fields including medicine, bring about the necessity to investigate the in vivo side effects of these materials. On this basis, we investigated the potential anti-diabetic activity of nanoparticles (NPs) along with toxicological effects on liver and pancreas tissue. Materials and Methods: In this excremental research after preparation of ZnO nanoparticles and their characterization with SEM, EDX, and TEM, 30 rats were studied in 6 groups of 5 each. The groups included 1- Healthy control 2- Diabetic control 3- Diabetic - Insulin (10 U/kg) 4- Diabetic - Cranberry (150 mg/kg) 5- Diabetic-ZnO (8 mg/kg) 6- Diabetic-ZnO + extract (8 mg/kg). Diabetes was induced with alloxan monohydrate via intraperitoneal injection (170 mg/kg). Rats were treated intraperitoneal for 16 days and every four days examined for blood glucose levels, at the end of the treatment period, the liver and pancreatic tissues were analyzed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests in SPSS. Results: The analysis of nanoparticles revealed the capping of organic constituents on the surface of the biological nanoparticles. The assessment of serum samples displayed a significant decrease in blood glucose levels in the group that was treated by NPs prepared by extract when compared to that of the diabetic control group (p≤0/05). The histopathological analysis did not show any damages to the studied organs. Conclusion: The results obtained in the present study revealed that the bio-synthesized nanoparticles not only significantly decreased the blood glucose level of diabetic rats but also had no toxic effects on the liver and pancreas tissues at the concentrations used in this study.

Urinary tract infections (UTI), which are among the most frequent cases of infectious diseases, mainly affect women. The most common treatment approach involves the use of antibiotics, although this solution is not always the most suitable, mainly because of the resistance that bacterial strains develop. Proanthocyanidins are a class of polyphenols, abundantly contained in cranberry extracts, which have shown beneficial effects in the treatment of urinary tract infections, due to their anti-adhesive properties toward bacteria, with respect to the membranes of the cells of the urothelium and intestine, thus reducing their virulence. In this work, we demonstrate via microscopy and scattering measurements how a mixture of cranberry and chondroitin sulfate can form a crosslinked structure with barrier properties. By using a design of experiment (DOE), we optimized the mass ratio to obtain a precipitate between cranberry extract and chondroitin sulfate in the presence of N-acetylcysteine and hyaluronic acid. By using transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) chambers, we confirmed the barrier properties of the best mixture obtained with the DOE. Lastly, the antibiofilm action was investigated against five strains of Escherichia coli with different antibiotic sensitivity. The precipitate displayed a variable inhibitory effect in biofilm formation with major effects in UTI with an antibiotic resistance profile.

Fungi are associated with the European cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos L.) and play important roles in plant growth and disease control, especially in cranberry yields. This article presents the results of a study which was aimed to investigate the diversity of fungi found on different clones and cultivars of the European cranberry grown in Lithuania, causing twigs, leaf diseases and fruit rots. In this study seventeen clones and five cultivars of V. oxycoccos were selected for investigation. Fungi were isolated via the incubation of twigs, leaves and fruit on a PDA medium and identified according to their cultural and morphological characteristics. Microscopic fungi belonging to 14 genera were isolated from cranberry leaves and twigs, with Physalospora vaccinii, Fusarium spp., Mycosphaerella nigromaculans and Monilinia oxycocci being the most frequently isolated fungi. ‘Vaiva’ and ‘Žuvinta’ cultivars were the most susceptible to pathogenic fungi during the growing season. Among the clones, 95–A–07 was the most susceptible to Phys. vaccinii, 95–A–08 to M. nigromaculans, 99–Ž–05 to Fusarium spp. and 95–A–03 to M. oxycocci. Microscopic fungi belonging to 12 genera were isolated from cranberry berries. The most prevalent pathogenic fungi M. oxycocci were isolated from the berries of the cultivars ‘Vaiva’ and ‘Žuvinta’ and clones 95–A–03 and 96–K–05.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of long-term administration of a new herbal composition of leuzea and cranberry meal extracts at a dose of 70:500 mg/kg in healthy and pathological mice. After 4 weeks of daily composition administration to healthy CD-1 mice and C57BL/6 mice with diet-induced metabolic syndrome, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), serum biochemical examination and histology of internal organs were performed. Additionally, histological examination of white and brown adipose tissue was performed to evaluate the ability of the composition to prevent abdominal obesity in C57BL/6Ay (agouti yellow) mice. The results showed that the composition increased tissue sensitivity to glucose in healthy CD-1 mice; at the same time, it did not worsen the course of pathological processes in pathological mice. In both cases, the application of the developed composition was safe and contributed to the restoration of metabolic parameters.

Food adulteration has been an issue in the food industry for many decades. The market for natural and healthy products has been expanding and therefore the value of raw ingredients harvested from natural sources has increased, and, in some cases, it has led to adulteration of such high-valued products. Berry fruits and products from different species of the genus Vaccinium have been gaining worldwide popularity because of their nutraceutical benefits. However, there are increasing reports of adulteration or misidentification of high-value wild berries with their cultivated counterparts. During recent years, DNA-based methods for the authentication of commercial products have gained popularity, especially regarding species identification. Based on the availability of their chloroplast genome information, we developed DNA markers to differentiate lingonberry from cranberry as well as to discriminate European bilberry from North American blueberry. By using Bar-HRM analysis (DNA barcoding combined with High Resolution Melting), the markers were tested on plant DNA as well as DNA extracted from diverse berry products. The developed markers were able to discriminate between species and, moreover, detect potential adulteration in products made from these berry species. Subsequently, the Bar-HRM result was verified by amplicon sequencing. To conclude, the developed molecular markers represent a valuable tool for the berry food industry. • Increasing value of natural ingredients may lead to adulteration of berry products. • Kit-based DNA extraction from berry products was optimized for easier authentication. • DNA markers were developed to discriminate between Vaccinium species by Bar-HRM. • Markers were found to separate blueberry from bilberry and lingonberry from cranberry. • Markers detected potential adulteration of berry products in Bar-HRM analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After water, tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world. In addition to its use as a beverage, tea is also known as a beverage that can have several health benefits, mainly due to the presence of nutrients. But, on the other hand, even very low concentrations of some metals can be toxic and can cause disorders and serious biological diseases. In this paper we have researched the content of micro and macro elements in chamomile tea samples of five different brands: sample 1 (Croatia), sample 2 (Kosovo), sample 3(Sri Lanka), sample 4 (Slovenia) and sample 5 (Kosovo) found in a local market in Pristina. Concentrations of the elements were determined by the method of atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Microwave was used to decompose samples. Concentrations of metals in chamomile samples were: Na (1908-2480 mg/kg), K (3860-9294 mg/kg), Ca (11972-24269 mg/kg), Mg (1309-4287 mg/kg, Zn (10-33 mg/kg), Fe (86-302 mg/kg), Mn (69-217 mg/kg) and Ni (2-5 mg/kg) On the other hand metal concentrations in infusions of chamomile tea of these five brands at different times (3, 5 and 10 minutes) were: Na (1131-2233 mg/kg), K (3147-8999 mg kg), Ca (9189-22140 mg/kg), Mg (935-3899 mg/kg, Zn (2.1-29 mg/kg), Fe (6-47 mg/kg), Mn (37-177 mg/kg) and Ni (1-2 mg/kg). Of all the macronutrients (Na, Mg, K and Ca), calcium had the highest concentration which ranges from 11972-24269 mg/kg. By comparing the concentrations of all heavy metals (iron, zinc, nickel and manganese) iron content was the highest of all samples, in the range of 86 mg/kg - 302 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous health benefits have been reported from the consumption of cranberry-derived products, and recent studies have identified bioactive polysaccharides and oligosaccharides from cranberry pomace. This study aimed to further characterize xyloglucan and pectic oligosaccharide structures from pectinase-treated cranberry pomace and measure the growth and short-chain fatty acid production of 86 Lactobacillus strains using a cranberry oligosaccharide fraction as the carbon source. In addition to arabino-xyloglucan structures, cranberry oligosaccharides included pectic rhamnogalacturonan I which was methyl-esterified, acetylated and contained arabino-galacto-oligosaccharide side chains and a 4,5-unsaturated function at the non-reducing end. When grown on cranberry oligosaccharides, ten Lactobacillus strains reached a final culture density (ΔOD) ≥ 0.50 after 24 h incubation at 32 °C, which was comparable to L. plantarum ATCC BAA 793. All strains produced lactic, acetic, and propionic acids, and all but three strains produced butyric acid. This study demonstrated that the ability to metabolize cranberry oligosaccharides is Lactobacillus strain specific, with some strains having the potential to be probiotics, and for the first time showed these ten strains were capable of growth on this carbon source. The novel cranberry pectic and arabino-xyloglucan oligosaccharide structures reported here combined with the Lactobacillus strains that can metabolize cranberry oligosaccharides and produce short-chain fatty acids, have excellent potential as health-promoting synbiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The American cranberry, Vaccinium macrocarpon, contains fibers and (poly)phenols that could exert health-promoting effects through modulation of gut microbiota. This study aimed to investigate how a freeze-dried whole cranberry powder (FCP) modulated metabolite production and microbial composition using both a 48-h incubation strategy and a long-term human gut simulator study with the M-SHIME (Mucosal Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem). FCP was repeatedly administered over three weeks. The studies included five and three study subjects, respectively. In both models, FCP significantly increased levels of health-related short-chain fatty acids (SCFA: acetate, propionate and butyrate), while decreased levels of branched-chain fatty acids (markers of proteolytic fermentation). Interestingly, FCP consistently increased luminal Bacteroidetes abundances in the proximal colon of the M-SHIME (+17.5 ± 9.3%) at the expense of Proteobacteria (−10.2 ± 1.5%). At family level, this was due to the stimulation of Bacteroidaceae and Prevotellaceae and a decrease of Pseudomonodaceae and Enterobacteriaceae. Despite of interpersonal differences, FCP also increased the abundance of families of known butyrate producers. Overall, FCP displayed an interesting prebiotic potential in vitro given its selective utilization by host microorganisms and potential health-related effects on inhibition of pathogens and selective stimulation of beneficial metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate whether cranberry extract could reduce lower urinary tract (LUT) and gastro-intestinal (GI) signs in feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC). Twenty-one client-owned cats were randomly allocated to two groups: a treated group (T, n = 10) receiving daily an oral nutritional supplement containing cranberry extract and a control group (C, n = 11). Owners were trained to recognise daily LUT and GI signs. Physical examination, urinalysis and bladder ultrasonography were performed at day 0 (T0), 15 (T15), 30 (T30), 60 (T60). Both groups showed an improvement for dysuria and periuria from T0 to T30 (p < 0.05), but only in cats of the T group, LUT signs disappeared at T60. A significant improvement in the T group was also observed for GI signs and bladder ultrasonography at T60 (p = 0.03). Urinalysis did not show any significant differences. This preliminary study suggests that cranberry could be effective in reducing LUT and GI signs in FIC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: While antibiotics have been a staple in the management and even prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs), it is not without significant consequences due to intolerance and development of antibiotic resistant bacteria. These concerns necessitate alternatives to antibiotic use in the management of pediatric UTIs. This review seeks to evaluate non-antibiotic means of preventing UTI in the pediatric population. Recent Findings: The search for preventative alternatives to antibiotics has included D-mannose, cranberry, and probiotics. These products similarly work through competitive inhibition of uropathogens in the urinary tract. Summary: Pediatric studies exist highlighting the use of cranberry extract/juice and probiotics in UTI prevention, although significant heterogeneity amongst studies have limited overarching recommendations for their use. Data of D-mannose use is extrapolated from adult literature. More studies are required in the utility of each treatment, with some emphasis on larger sample sizes and clarifications regarding dosing and formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) are traditionally used in prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs). The authors' aim was to evaluate effects of a supplement containing cranberry extract, pumpkin seed extract, vitamin C, and vitamin B2 on recurrent uncomplicated UTIs in women and their intestinal microbiota. Methods: A prospective, uncontrolled exploratory study was conducted in women with recurrent uncomplicated UTIs. The primary exploratory outcome was the number of UTIs in a 6-month prospective observation period compared with a 6-month retrospective period. Further outcomes included number of antibiotics, quality of life (SF-36), intestinal microbiota (assessed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing), and evaluation questions. Parameters were assessed at baseline and after 1, 2, and 7 months (start of intake of cranberry supplement after 1 month for 6 months). p-Values were calculated with the pairwise Wilcoxon signed-rank test for a diversity and permutational multivariate analysis of variance. Results: Twenty-three women (aged 52.7 ± 12.4 years) were included in the study. Participants reported 2.2 ± 0.8 UTIs (at baseline) in the previous 6 months. After 6 months of cranberry intake, participants reported a significant decrease to 0.5 ± 0.9 UTIs (p < 0.001). Number of antibiotic therapies was also significantly (p ± 0.001) reduced by 68% during 6 months of cranberry intake (0.14 ± 0.35) when compared with 6 months retrospectively (1.14 ± 0.71). The SF-36 physical component score increased from 4 4.9 ± 5.5 at baseline to 45.7 ± 4.6 at 7 months (p = 0.16). The SF-36 mental component score decreased slightly from the baseline value of 46.5 ± 6.5 to 46.2 ± 6.4 at 7 months (p = 0.74). No significant intragroup mean changes at genus, family, or species level for a and b diversity within the intestinal microbiota were found. In the evaluation questions, participants rated the cranberry extract positively and considered it beneficial. The supplement intake was safe. Conclusions: This study shows that women with recurrent uncomplicated UTIs benefit from cranberry intake. Future larger clinical studies with further investigation of the mechanisms of action are required to determine the effects of cranberries on participants with uncomplicated UTIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mosquito-borne dengue virus (DENV) and zika virus (ZIKV) infections constitute a global health emergency. Antivirals directly targeting the virus infectious cycle are still needed to prevent dengue hemorrhagic fever and congenital zika syndrome. In the present study, we demonstrated that Cranberry Pomace (CP) extract, a polyphenol-rich agrifood byproduct recovered following cranberry juice extraction, blocks DENV and ZIKV infection in human Huh7.5 and A549 cell lines, respectively, in non-cytotoxic concentrations. Our virological assays identified CP extract as a potential inhibitor of virus entry into the host-cell by acting directly on viral particles, thus preventing their attachment to the cell surface. At effective antiviral doses, CP extract proved safe and tolerable in a zebrafish model. In conclusion, polyphenol-rich agrifood byproducts such as berry extracts are a promising source of safe and naturally derived nutraceutical antivirals that target medically important pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is a key underlying factor in cognitive decline and atherosclerosis. Oxidative stress occurs at the cellular level with an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species and a deficiency in antioxidants. Mounting evidence suggests that berry flavonoids may promote cellular health by exerting antioxidant properties. Black currant and various berry extracts were tested in microglia (BV-2) and cardiomyocyte (HL-1) cell lines to study their biological effects. The principal ingredients in black currant and cranberry extract–delphinidin 3-rutinoside (D3R) and cyanidin 3-glucoside (C3G), were also assessed. A menadione-induced oxidative stressor was used, and its output was quantified to detect oxidative stress (CellROXTM). Black currant extract had similar antioxidant effects as N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in HL-1 cells with regard to cellular protection, whereas cranberry extract was ineffective. In contrast, cranberry extract was comparable in effectiveness to black currant extract in BV-2 cells. D3R and C3G also reduced oxidative stress similarly to whole berry extracts, which indicates that these ingredients may confer the antioxidant effects of berries. Black currant and cranberry extracts inhibit oxidative stress in microglial and cardiomyocyte cell lines. Black currant extract was more effective in reducing oxidative stress in the HL-1 cells, whereas cranberry extract was comparable in reducing oxidative stress in the BV-2 cells. The results suggest that berry flavonoids exert neuro- and cardioprotective effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Blueberry and cranberry are rich in polyphenols that are associated with diabetes reduction. This study aimed: 1) to systematically review the literature on the effects of blueberry and cranberry consumption and type 2 diabetes parameters in individuals with or without type 2 diabetes and 2) to quantify these effects by carrying out a meta-analysis.Data Synthesis: A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed using articles present in seven databases (PubMed, LILACS, Scielo, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase), including publications until May 2021. We included randomized clinical trials that compared blueberry or cranberry effects on type 2 diabetes parameters, such as fasting blood glucose, insulin resistance, and glycated hemoglobin. Quality of the studies was performed using the Cochrane scale, while the Egger test assessed the publication bias and meta-regression the estimated effect sizes with potential moderator variables. From the 2034 studies identified, 39 were read in full and 22 were included in meta-analysis. In individuals with diabetes, the consumption of blueberry or cranberry significantly reduced fasting blood glucose [MD: -17.72 mg/dl; 95% CI: -29.62, -5.82; p = 0.03; I2 = 57%] and glycated hemoglobin [MD: -0.32%; 95% CI: -0.57, -0.07; p = 0.15; I2 = 39%], whereas for insulin resistance the effects were null. Results were not significant for the general population, except in the sensitivity analysis for fasting blood glucose.Conclusions: The consumption of blueberry and cranberry significantly reduced fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels in individuals with diabetes, with high credibility of the evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Purpose Our objective was to assess the efficacy of a high dose cranberry proanthocyanidin extract for the prevention of recurrent urinary tract infection. Material and methods We recruited 145 healthy, adult women with a history of recurrent urinary tract infection, defined as ≥ 2 in the past 6 months or ≥ 3 in the past 12 months in this randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Participants were randomized to receive a high dose of standardized, commercially available cranberry proanthocyanidins (2 × 18.5 mg daily, n = 72) or a control low dose (2 × 1 mg daily, n = 73) for a 24-week period. During follow-up, symptomatic women provided urine samples for detection of pyuria and/or bacteriuria and received an appropriate antibiotic prescription. The primary outcome for the trial was the mean number of new symptomatic urinary tract infections during a 24-week intervention period. Secondary outcomes included symptomatic urinary tract infection with pyuria or bacteriuria. Results In response to the intervention, a non-significant 24% decrease in the number of symptomatic urinary tract infections was observed between groups (Incidence rate ratio 0.76, 95%CI 0.51–1.11). Post-hoc analyses indicated that among 97 women who experienced less than 5 infections in the year preceding enrolment, the high dose was associated with a significant decrease in the number of symptomatic urinary tract infections reported compared to the low dose (age-adjusted incidence rate ratio 0.57, 95%CI 0.33–0.99). No major side effects were reported. Conclusion High dose twice daily proanthocyanidin extract was not associated with a reduction in the number of symptomatic urinary tract infections when compared to a low dose proanthocyanidin extract. Our post-hoc results reveal that this high dose of proanthocyanidins may have a preventive impact on symptomatic urinary tract infection recurrence in women who experienced less than 5 infections per year. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT02572895

Abstract Background Urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect 15 million women each year in the United States, with > 20% experiencing frequent recurrent UTIs. A recent placebo-controlled clinical trial found a 39% reduction in UTI symptoms among recurrent UTI sufferers who consumed a daily cranberry beverage for 24 weeks. Using metagenomic sequencing of stool from a subset of these trial participants, we assessed the impact of cranberry consumption on the gut microbiota, a reservoir for UTI-causing pathogens such as Escherichia coli, which causes > 80% of UTIs. Results The overall taxonomic composition, community diversity, carriage of functional pathways and gene families, and relative abundances of the vast majority of observed bacterial taxa, including E. coli, were not changed significantly by cranberry consumption. However, one unnamed Flavonifractor species (OTU41), which represented ≤1% of the overall metagenome, was significantly less abundant in cranberry consumers compared to placebo at trial completion. Given Flavonifractor’s association with negative human health effects, we sought to determine OTU41 characteristic genes that may explain its differential abundance and/or relationship to key host functions. Using comparative genomic and metagenomic techniques, we identified genes in OTU41 related to transport and metabolism of various compounds, including tryptophan and cobalamin, which have been shown to play roles in host-microbe interactions. Conclusion While our results indicated that cranberry juice consumption had little impact on global measures of the microbiome, we found one unnamed Flavonifractor species differed significantly between study arms. This suggests further studies are needed to assess the role of cranberry consumption and Flavonifractor in health and wellbeing in the context of recurrent UTI. Trial registration Clinical trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01776021 .

The immunomodulatory potential of probiotics and (poly)phenols (PP) is recognized; however, studies regarding microorganisms-PP synergisms are yet to be explored. Here, we investigated the cooperation between probiotics and berry-derived PP extracts in modulating the cytokine responses in dendritic cells. Bacteria elicited immune responses in a strain-dependent manner. PP extracts showed different modulation of cytokine triggered by bacteria. Also with LPS, used as pro-inflammatory stimulus, PP from blueberry (BB) and cranberry (CB) most efficiently reduced IL12 production. L. paracasei LPC-S01 and B. bifidum MIMBb23sg resulted the best bacterial association in abrogating IL12 and increasing IL10. The use of PP fraction from BB50f and CB1 with the LPC-S01 + MIMBb23sg association resulted the most efficient combinations in terms of anti-inflammatory activity. These results provide bases for further investigation in vivo, in the perspective to develop food supplements that might conceivably deliver the single and combined benefits of probiotics and berry (poly)phenols.

BACKGROUND: Long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons are widespread in plant genomes and play a large role in the generation of genomic variation. Despite this, their identification and characterization remains challenging, especially for non-model genomes. Hence, LTR retrotransposons remain undercharacterized in Vaccinium genomes, although they may be beneficial for current berry breeding efforts. OBJECTIVE: Exemplarily focusing on the genome of American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton), we aim to generate an overview of the LTR retrotransposon landscape, highlighting the abundance, transcriptional activity, sequence, and structure of the major retrotransposon lineages. METHODS: Graph-based clustering of whole genome shotgun Illumina reads was performed to identify the most abundant LTR retrotransposons and to reconstruct representative in silico full-length elements. To generate insights into the LTR retrotransposon diversity in V. macrocarpon, we also queried the genome assembly for presence of reverse transcriptases (RTs), the key domain of LTR retrotransposons. Using transcriptomic data, transcriptional activity of retrotransposons corresponding to the consensuses was analyzed. RESULTS: We provide an in-depth characterization of the LTR retrotransposon landscape in the V. macrocarpon genome. Based on 475 RTs harvested from the genome assembly, we detect a high retrotransposon variety, with all major lineages present. To better understand their structural hallmarks, we reconstructed 26 Ty1-copia and 28 Ty3-gypsy in silico consensuses that capture the detected diversity. Accordingly, we frequently identify association with tandemly repeated motifs, extra open reading frames, and specialized, lineage-typical domains. Based on the overall high genomic abundance and transcriptional activity, we suggest that retrotransposons of the Ale and Athila lineages are most promising to monitor retrotransposon-derived polymorphisms across accessions. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that LTR retrotransposons are major components of the V. macrocarpon genome. The representative consensuses provide an entry point for further Vaccinium genome analyses and may be applied to derive molecular markers for enhancing cranberry selection and breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Bladder cancer (BC) is the most common tumor of the urinary system in the world. Moreover, despite using anticancer therapies, BC is also characterized by a high recurrence risk. Among numerous risk factors, cigarette smoking, occupational exposure to certain aromatic compounds, and genetic factors contribute most strongly to BC development. However, the epidemiological data to date suggests that diet quality may influence some carcinogenic factors of BC and, therefore, might have a preventative effect. Adequate consumption of selected fruits with scientifically proven properties, including pomegranates and cranberries, can significantly reduce the risk of developing BC, even in those at risk. Therefore, in this article, we aim to elucidate, using available literature, the role of fruits, including pomegranates, cranberries, citrus fruits, cactus pears, and apples, in BC prevention and treatment. Previous data indicate the role of compounds in the above-mentioned fruits in the modulation of the signaling pathways, including cell proliferation, cell growth, cell survival, and cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Cranberry fruits are rich in polyphenols, comprising small‐molecule flavonols, anthocyanins, and oligomeric A‐type proanthocyanidins. It is becoming increasingly clear that the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining the metabolic health of the human host, and the cranberry polyphenols‐gut microbiota interactions result in the production of an array of metabolites along with the compositional change of microbiota. Cranberry polyphenols‐induced these changes may be associated with improved host health and disease prevention. However, it is unclear to what extent microbiota‐derived metabolites are absorbed into the systemic circulation and exert pharmacological effects. Because the composition of gut microbiota influences the host energy metabolism and have systemic effects on lipid homeostasis, intake of cranberry rich diet may be beneficial in preventing metabolic syndrome associated with chronic diseases. Exploring connections between alterations in gut microbiome composition, and host metabolic health after chronic exposure to cranberry products is critical for understanding the potential health benefits of cranberry fruits.

Honey is a remarkably complex food with a valued place in the human diet. An important indicator of its quality is the presence of microorganisms. This study aimed to monitor the mycological quality of 27 samples of Slovak kinds of honey and honey products with the addition of differently processed blueberries, cranberries, and red currants. Yeast and filamentous microscopic fungi were monitored using the plate dilution method. A total of 21 samples (78%) were positive for the presence of yeasts and 14 samples (52%) were positive for the filamentous microscopic fungi occurrence. In 6 samples (22%) no presence of microscopic fungi was found at all. The highest number of yeasts (3.07 log CFU.g-1) was recorded in one flower honey sample and in other samples, yeast counts did not exceed 3 log CFU.g-1. The highest numbers of filamentous micromycetes (2.39 and 2.44 log CFU.g-1) were recorded in 2 honeydew honey samples. Overall, the following genera have been identified: Alternaria, Arthrinium, Aspergillus (including previously named as Eurotium), Aureobasidium, Cladosporium, Mucor, Penicillium, and Stemphilium. Penicillium spp. were recorded with the highest isolation frequency (41%). Aspergillus species were isolated from 19% of honey samples. In the honey with fruit addition, the yeasts in a range of 1.00 – 3.09 log CFU.g-1 and the filamentous microscopic fungi in a range of 1.00 – 1.39 log CFU.g-1 were found. The study showed that cranberries were the most appropriate addition from a mycological point of view. Dried and lyophilized forms of tested fruits were the most suitable. Except for honey with frozen currants and honey with fresh cranberries, all final products had a water activity below 0.610 and appeared to be stable.

Introduction: Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is commonly consumed as a source of antioxidants. The cranberry juice has a sour and a little bit of bitter taste that can affect the salivary pH. The sour taste is a result of its high content of proanthocyanidin. Cranberry juice plays a role in maintaining oral and dental health. Cranberries’ flavonol and proanthocyanidin content play a role in preventing dental caries by preventing the growth of Streptococcus mutans. This study was aimed to compare the salivary pH before and after cranberry juice consumption. Methods: This research was quasi-experimental. The research population was the students from the Faculty of Dentistry Universitas Padjadjaran, and the sampling method was purposive sampling. Thirty-five male and female students with no history of systemic disease and drug administration, no orthodontics appliance and denture, were involved in this experiment. Students with lesions on oral mucosa were also excluded from this study. The pH measurement was performed with a digital pH meter to record the salivary pH ratio before and after consumption of cranberry juice. Before salivary pH comparison analysis was performed, the normality test was conducted, then the analysis was continued using the paired t-test. Statistical analysis was determined at α=0.05. Results: The average values of salivary pH ratio before and after consumption of cranberry juice were 6.714 and 7.246, respectively. The normality test showed that the p-value before and after consumption of cranberry juice were 0.143 and 0.285, respectively (p-value>0.05), which categorised in the normal distribution. The paired t-test statistical analysis showed the p-value of 0.001 (p-value

Abstract Background The recurrence of the urinary tract infections (UTI), following the antibiotic treatments suggests the pathogen’s resistance to conventional antibiotics. This calls for the exploration of an alternative therapy. Main body The anti-uropathogenic and bactericidal activity of many plant extracts was reported by many researchers, which involves only preliminary antibacterial studies using different basic techniques like disk diffusion, agar well diffusion, or minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the crude plant extracts, but reports on the specific action of the phytoconstituents against uropathogens are limited. Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton (cranberry) is the best-studied home remedy for UTI. Some evidences suggest that proanthocyanins present in cranberry, prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract, subsequently blocking the further steps of uropathogenesis. Probiotics such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are beneficial microorganisms that may act by the competitive exclusion principle to defend against infections in the urogenital tracts. Reports on potential vaccine agents and antibodies targeting the different toxins and effecter proteins are still obscure except uropathogenic E. coli. Conclusion This review highlights some of the medicinal herbs used by aborigines to prevent or treat acute or chronic urinary tract infections, botanicals with established urobactericidal activity, clinical trials undertaken to compare the efficacy of cranberry products in UTI prevention, and other natural therapeutics reported for UTI.

Abstract Background Cranberry has been studied as a potential anticancer agent as it is capable of inducing apoptosis within cancer cells. The aim of this study was to better define the mechanism by which cranberry triggers apoptosis in HL-60 cells. Methods The study was carried on cranberry extracts (CB). Anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) and pro-apoptotic BCL-2-associated death promoter death (BAD) proteins in cell lysates were detected through Western blotting techniques. Equivalent protein loading was confirmed through anti-α-tubulin antibody. Results The results showed that treatment of HL-60 cells with CB causes a significant increase in the levels of caspase-9 and caspases-3/7 and increased mitochondrial outer membrane permeability, leading to the release of cytochrome C and Smac. These apoptotic events were associated with a significant decrease in protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation, which caused significant increase in BAD de-phosphorylation and promoted a sequence of events that led to intrinsic apoptosis. Conclusion The study findings have described a molecular framework for CB-initiated apoptosis in HL-60 cells and suggested a direction for future in vivo studies investigating the anticancer effect of cranberry.

In the cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) industry, the textural properties and firmness of the fruit are priority traits for producing processed products, such as sweetened dried cranberry (SDC), which have gained popularity in recent years. However, there is currently no reliable methodology for screening these traits in breeding programs. In this study, we examine the key methodologies, textural traits, parameters, and conditions that are necessary to accurately and efficiently measure the texture of cranberry fruit. Double compression, single compression, puncture, shearing and Kramer shear cell methodologies were successfully implemented in cranberry, resulting in a total of 47 textural features. These features allowed the evaluation of the texture of the cranberry fruit based on key factors such as flesh, structure, and skin. This study also examined factors than can affect the performance of texture measurements, including the optimal sample size, storage time, fruit texture-size correlation, fruit temperature and orientation, optimal speed/strain combinations, and the effect of probe diameter. The results of the study suggests that certain texture traits of the compression and puncture methodologies could potentially be used to test varieties and aid in breeding programs.

Background: Red fruits are characterised by a particularly high content of bioactive compounds, e.g. anthocyanins, tannins, pectins, vitamins and minerals. Dietary supply of proper amounts of antioxidants is essential to reduce oxidative stress, and thus is an important element in the prevention of lifestyle diseases., Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the content of polyphenols in selected red fruit juices (chokeberry, elderberry, pomegranate, cranberry), as well as to assess the impact of storage time on the content of these compounds in the analysed samples., Material and Methods: The research material consisted of 17 juices (100%): 3 chokeberry juices, 4 elderberry juices, 5 pomegranate juices and 5 cranberry juices, which differed in terms of the manufacturer, type, price range, country of origin and production method. The total polyphenol content was measured by spectrophotometry using the Folin�Ciocalteu reagent. The procedure was based on a modified method described by Waterhouse. Active acidity (pH) was measured with the potentiometric method using a pH-meter and the sucrose content was measured using a refractometer., Results: The highest mean content of polyphenolic compounds was found in chokeberry and elderberry juices. Juice storage time did not reduce the mean content of polyphenolic compounds. The highest sucrose content was found in chokeberry juices and the lowest in cranberry juice., Conclusions: Chokeberry and elderberry juices had the highest content of polyphenols among the tested products. Juices stored after opening in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions (at 4°C) do not lose their nutritional properties.

The objectives of this research were to analyze anthocyanins in blue honeysuckle ( Lonicera caerulea L.), bilberry ( Vaccinium vitis-idaea L), and cranberry ( Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.), using HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS 2 , Fourteen, fifteen, and eight anthocyanins were identified in blue honeysuckle, bilberry, and cranberry, respectively. Cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) and peonidin-3-glucoside were detected in all three types of berries, with blue honeysuckle showing the highest C3G content at 5686.28 mg/100 g DW. Total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), along with ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP assays, were measured. Blue honeysuckle exhibited the highest levels of TPC and TFC. The SOD, POD, and CAT activities in blue honeysuckle were 1761.17 U/g, 45,525.65 U/g, and 1043.24 U/g, respectively, which were significantly superior to those in bilberry and cranberry. The antioxidant mechanisms of these enzymes were investigated by molecular docking, C3G showed a higher affinity for POD, confirming the effectiveness of C3G as an antioxidant., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

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.)

Background: The oral microbiota is a significant risk indicator for oral diseases, such as dental caries and periodontal inflammation. Much attention is presently paid to the development of functional foods (e.g. beverages containing cranberry constituents, or foods containing probiotics) that may serve as adjuncts for oral disease treatments (e.g. periodontitis and caries). Cranberry fruit, due to its unique chemical composition and antimicrobial potential, is a possible ingredient of such foods. The study aimed to investigate the effects of cranberry juice (CJ) and a cranberry functional beverage (mixture of 80% v/v apple juice, 20% v/v cranberry juice, and 0.25 g/100 mL ground cinnamon; CFB) on the growth and metabolic activity of selected oral bacteria. Methods: Serial dilution pour plate method (SDPP) was used to examine the effect of CJ and CFB on the growth of Actinomyces naeslundii, Streptococcus mutans, and Lactobacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei. 48-h electrical impedance measurements (EIM) during the cultivation of A. naeslundii were applied to evaluate the utility of the method as a rapid alternative for the assessment of the antimicrobial potential of cranberry beverages. Results: The tested bacteria differed in their susceptibility to the antimicrobial action of CJ and CFB, with L. paracasei subsp. paracasei being least vulnerable to CFB (according to SDPP). Although CJ at a concentration of 0.5 mL/mL, showed a bactericidal effect on the growth of S. mutans, A. naeslundii was more sensitive to CJ (SDPP). Its inhibitory effect on A. naeslundii was seen even at concentrations as small as 0.03125–0.125 mL/mL (SDPP and EIM). On the other hand, S. mutans seemed to be more vulnerable to CFB than A. naeslundii (SDPP). Conclusions: CFB may be considered an adjunct in the treatment of oral diseases due to its action against selected oral pathogens, and not against the presumably beneficial L. paracasei subsp. paracasei. Bioelectrical impedance measurements appear to be a quick alternative to evaluating the antimicrobial activity of fruit beverages, but their utility should be confirmed with tests on other bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A considerable proportion of children experience a recurrence of urinary tract infection (UTI) following the first episode. While low-dose antibiotic prophylaxis has been the mainstay for the prevention of UTI, recent evidence raised concerns over their efficacy and safety. Hence, we aim to systematically synthesize evidence on the efficacy and safety of non-antibiotic prophylactic interventions for UTI. Using keywords related to study population (children) and intervention (non-antibiotic), we searched CENTRAL, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published until August 2020. RCTs comparing any non-antibiotic interventions with placebo/antibiotics for prevention of UTIs in children were considered eligible. We used a random-effect model to provide pooled estimates. Sixteen trials evaluating 1426 participants were included. Cranberry was as effective as antibiotic prophylaxis (RR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.56–1.50) but better than placebo/no therapy (RR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.28–0.80) in reducing UTI recurrence. Probiotic therapy was more effective in reducing UTI recurrence (RR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.29–0.94) when compared with placebo. While probiotic therapy was not better than antibiotics prophylaxis in preventing UTI (RR: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.56–1.21), they have a lower risk of antibiotic resistance (RR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.21–0.69). Conclusion: Cranberry products and probiotics are the two non-antibiotic interventions that have been chiefly evaluated, reduce the risk of UTI recurrence when compared with placebo in children with a normal urinary tract. The findings from this systematic review suggest that while cranberry and probiotics may be used, there is a definite need to identify better and more acceptable non-antibiotic interventions. What is Known: • Efficacy of the low-dose antibiotic is controversial in preventing UTI and it is associated with increase in the risk of antimicrobial resistance. • Non-antibiotic interventions such as cranberry products are effective in preventing UTI recurrence in adults. What is New: • Cranberry products are effective in reducing the recurrence of UTI in children with normal urinary tract. • Low-quality evidence suggests that probiotics can be a potential prophylactic measure to reduce recurrence of UTI in the pediatric population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) pollution is arguably the single greatest threat to coastal water quality in the United States. In the state of Massachusetts, sustainable management of cranberry agriculture requires detailed understanding of potential sources and losses of N, which can contribute to impaired coastal waters. Given the complexity of N transport processes, models are often used to quantify the amount of N delivered from cranberry farms to coastal waters. However, ambiguities in model parameters, inconsistencies in deriving N loading rates, and inaccuracies in spatial coverages leave open questions about the contribution of cranberry agriculture to impaired coastal waters. In this study, we synthesize the methods, assumptions, and results of all N budget studies conducted in cranberry farms from 1995 to 2019. We propose a new analytical framework for measuring N fertilizer export from cranberry farms which includes our best understanding of N retention and transport in cranberry farms. We then apply our results to two watershed land‐use models (Massachusetts Estuaries Project Linked Watershed‐Embayment Model, LM; the Waquoit Bay Nitrogen Loading Model, NLM) to quantify N loads contributed by cranberry farms to the highly eutrophic Wareham River estuary. We find that the LM and NLM are in close agreement with respect to the amount of N delivered from cranberry farms to the Wareham River estuary. In our application of the LM, we estimated that 7791 kg N·yr−1 from cranberry farms, or 15% of the total N load, reached the estuary. By comparison, we found that the NLM estimated slightly higher N loads contributed by cranberry farms to the estuary: 8365 kg N·yr−1, or 16% of the total N load. However, the models gave contrasting estimates of unattenuated N loads from cranberry farms (9670 kg N·yr−1, LM; 12,870 kg N·yr−1, NLM) and the amount of N transmitted through the watershed to the estuary (81% LM; 65% NLM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to evaluate the effect of cranberry supplementation on serum liver enzymes, hepatic steatosis, and cardiometabolic risk factors in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD). Methods: In the present parallel-designed randomized controlled clinical trial, 110 patients with NAFLD were enrolled. The patients were randomized to receive 144 mg cranberry capsule or placebo for 6 months. The primary efficacy of the treatment was lipid profile, glycemic measurements, and liver enzyme levels. Results: The data were reported for 46 in the supplementation group and 48 in the placebo group. The patient's mean (SD) age was 43.16 (11.08) years. No significant differences between groups were observed regarding the post-intervention level of liver enzyme. The mean after-intervention levels of total cholesterol (p < 0.001) and triglyceride (p = 0.01) were significantly lower in the intervention group compared with the placebo group. At the end of the study, the mean insulin and HOMA-IR levels were significantly lower in the cranberry group compared with the placebo group. Significantly more patients in the cranberry group experienced a decrease in steatosis level compared with the control group. Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that cranberry supplementation had a positive effect on some lipid profiles, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis in patients with NAFLD. Trial registration: IRCT20200725048200N1; first registration date: 11.8.2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Nitrogen (N) pollution is arguably the single greatest threat to coastal water quality in the United States. In the state of Massachusetts, sustainable management of cranberry agriculture requires detailed understanding of potential sources and losses of N, which can contribute to impaired coastal waters. Given the complexity of N transport processes, models are often used to quantify the amount of N delivered from cranberry farms to coastal waters. However, ambiguities in model parameters, inconsistencies in deriving N loading rates, and inaccuracies in spatial coverages leave open questions about the contribution of cranberry agriculture to impaired coastal waters. In this study, we synthesize the methods, assumptions, and results of all N budget studies conducted in cranberry farms from 1995 to 2019. We propose a new analytical framework for measuring N fertilizer export from cranberry farms which includes our best understanding of N retention and transport in cranberry farms. We then apply our results to two watershed land‐use models (Massachusetts Estuaries Project Linked Watershed‐Embayment Model, LM; the Waquoit Bay Nitrogen Loading Model, NLM) to quantify N loads contributed by cranberry farms to the highly eutrophic Wareham River estuary. We find that the LM and NLM are in close agreement with respect to the amount of N delivered from cranberry farms to the Wareham River estuary. In our application of the LM, we estimated that 7791 kg N·yr−1 from cranberry farms, or 15% of the total N load, reached the estuary. By comparison, we found that the NLM estimated slightly higher N loads contributed by cranberry farms to the estuary: 8365 kg N·yr−1, or 16% of the total N load. However, the models gave contrasting estimates of unattenuated N loads from cranberry farms (9670 kg N·yr−1, LM; 12,870 kg N·yr−1, NLM) and the amount of N transmitted through the watershed to the estuary (81% LM; 65% NLM).