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The nonequilibrium Fermi's golden rule (NE-FGR) approach is developed to simulate the electronic transitions between multiple excited states in complex condensed-phase systems described by the recently proposed multi-state harmonic (MSH) model Hamiltonian. The MSH models were constructed to faithfully capture the photoinduced charge transfer dynamics in a prototypical organic photovoltaic carotenoid-porphyrin-C60 molecular triad dissolved in tetrahydrofuran. A general expression of the fully quantum-mechanical NE-FGR rate coefficients for transitions between all pairs of states in the MSH model is obtained. Besides, the linearized semiclassical NE-FGR formula and a series of semiclassical approximations featuring Wigner and classical nuclear sampling choices and different dynamics during the quantum coherence period for the MSH model are derived. The current approach enables all the possible population transfer pathways between the excited states of the triad, in contrast to the previous applications that only addressed the donor-to-acceptor transition. Our simulations for two triad conformations serve as a demonstration for benchmarking different NE-FGR approximations and show that the difference between all levels of approximation is small for the current system, especially at room temperature. By comparing with nonadiabatic semiclassical dynamics, we observe similar timescales for the electronic population transfer predicted by NE-FGR. It is believed that the general formulation of NE-FGR for the MSH Hamiltonian enables a variety of applications in realistic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We develop a theory of singlet fission in carotenoid dimers. Following photoexcitation of the "bright" state (i.e., a singlet electron–hole pair) in a single carotenoid, the first step in the singlet fission process is ultrafast intramolecular conversion into the highly correlated "dark" (or 2Ag) state. This state has both entangled singlet triplet-pair and charge-transfer character. Our theory is predicated on the assumption that it is the singlet triplet-pair component of the "dark" state that undergoes bimolecular singlet fission. We use valence bond theory to develop a minimal two-chain model of the triplet-pair states. The single and double chain triplet-pair spectra are described, as this helps explain the dynamics and the equilibrated populations. We simulate the dynamics of the initial entangled pair state using the quantum Liouville equation, including both spin-conserving and spin-nonconserving dephasing processes. By computing the intrachain and interchain singlet, triplet, and quintet triplet-pair populations, we show that singlet fission critically depends on the interchain coupling and the driving potential (that determines endothermic vs exothermic fission). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coherent anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS) spectroscopy is a nonlinear optical technique that is used to investigate many different chemical and biological systems. This tool is very efficient and essentially completely rejects fluorescence. As is well known, the excitation profiles of resonance CARS are mostly used to estimate the origin shift parameters with electronic excitation for vibrations with resonantly enhanced Raman components that give information about the molecular structure and its changes in an excited electronic state. Certainly, it is necessary to have an appropriate theoretical model for pragmatically representing these processes and considering the joint (simultaneous) impact of different broadening mechanisms. The theoretical model presented in the paper is the most general and is free from a priori assumptions. Also, the mathematical algorithm created on its basis is flexible and fast for quantitative calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In yeast metabolic engineering, there is a need for technologies that simultaneously suppress and regulate the expression of multiple genes and improve the production of target chemicals. In this study, we aimed to develop a novel technology that simultaneously suppresses the expression of multiple genes by combining RNA interference with global metabolic engineering strategy. Furthermore, using β-carotene as the target chemical, we attempted to improve its production by using the technology. First, we developed a technology to suppress the expression of the target genes with various strengths using RNA interference. Using this technology, total carotenoid production was successfully improved by suppressing the expression of a single gene out of 10 candidate genes. Then, using this technology, RNA interference strain targeting 10 candidate genes for simultaneous suppression was constructed. The total carotenoid production of the constructed RNA interference strain was 1.7 times compared with the parental strain. In the constructed strain, the expression of eight out of the 10 candidate genes was suppressed. We developed a novel technology that can simultaneously suppress the expression of multiple genes at various intensities and succeeded in improving carotenoid production in yeast. Because this technology can suppress the expression of any gene, even essential genes, using only gene sequence information, it is considered a useful technology that can suppress the formation of by-products during the production of various target chemicals by yeast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary astaxanthin supplementation has been demonstrated to have many beneficial and health-promoting effects. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effect of astaxanthin supplementation on fatigue, cognition, and exercise efficiency. A total of 11 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 346 healthy participants were included. The random effects model and pooled standardized mean difference (SMDs) were used according to Hedge's g for the meta-analysis, and a meta-regression was also conducted. The results of the two existing studies showed a positive trend for astaxanthin in subjective fatigue relief. The effects of astaxanthin supplementation for 8–12 weeks on cognitive accuracy were marginally significant (SMD:.12; 95% CI: −.02–.26) and on reaction time was not significant (SMD: −.08; 95% CI: −.26 to.10). Remarkably, astaxanthin supplementation combined with regular training could enhance the fat oxidation (SMD: 2.56; 95% CI: 1.24–3.89), and significantly improve the physical performance (SMD:.62; 95% CI:.17–1.06). The subgroup analysis further showed significantly greater benefits when performing the aerobic exercises performance (SMD:.45; 95% CI:.13–.76), when the dose was ≥ 20 mg (SMD:.37; 95% CI:.11–.63), and when the supplementation duration was > 12 weeks (SMD:.66; 95% CI:.13–.63). We conclude that astaxanthin supplementation could significantly enhance aerobic exercise efficiency, especially at higher doses and for longer durations. Further studies based on large sample sizes are imperatively warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Objective: To evaluate the preliminary effects of a theory‐based, multi‐component intervention on improving healthy lifestyle behaviours and preventing obesity amongst low‐income preschoolers. Methods: A cluster randomised controlled trial was conducted at 10 daycare centres. The 16‐week FirstStep2Health intervention, grounded in the Actor‐Partner Interdependence Model and the Social Cognitive Theory, included five components: a Facebook‐based parent programme, three virtual parent meetings, three weekly motivational text messages, parent–child learning via weekly child letters and daycare centre‐based child programme. Results: A total of 95 preschoolers (53 intervention and 42 control) participated. Preschoolers' mean age was 49.27 months, with 57.9% being female, 12.6% being Hispanic and 40% being African American. The intervention significantly decreased intervention preschoolers' fat intake (B = −33.76, p = 0.047) and % body fat (B = −1.18, p = 0.036) compared to the control. During year 2, there were significant intervention effects on increasing skin carotenoids (B = 87.06, p = 0.035). Although not statistically significant, the intervention showed positive effects on increasing preschoolers' fruit/vegetable intake; and decreasing screen time, body mass index z‐score and proportion of overweight/obesity. Conclusions: Even with some potential limitations (small sample size, measurement concerns and confounding with Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic), the study's results support the preliminary efficacy of the FirstStep2Health intervention in preventing obesity amongst low‐income racially diverse preschoolers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astaxanthin (AST) is a natural marine carotenoid with a variety of biological activities. This study aimed to demonstrate the possible mechanisms by which AST improves skeletal muscle atrophy in cancer cachexia. In this study, the effects of different doses of AST (30 mg/kg b.w., 60 mg/kg b.w. and 120 mg/kg b.w.) on skeletal muscle functions were explored in mice with cancer cachexia. The results showed that AST (30, 60 and 120 mg/kg b.w.) could effectively protect cachexia mice from body weight and skeletal muscle loss. AST dose-dependently ameliorated the decrease in myofibres cross-sectional area and increased the expression of myosin heavy chain (MHC). AST treatment decreased both the serum and muscle level of IL-6 but not TNF-α in C26 tumor-bearing cachexia mice. Moreover, AST alleviated skeletal muscle atrophy by decreasing the expression of two muscle-specific E3 ligases MAFBx and MuRF-1. AST improved mitochondrial function by downregulating the levels of muscle Fis1, LC3B and Bax, upregulating the levels of muscle Mfn2 and Bcl-2. In conclusion, our study show that AST might be expected to be a nutritional supplement for cancer cachexia patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The production of alkaliphilic microalgae can contribute to address the challenging cost of using pure carbon dioxide in large reactors. At high pH values, carbon dioxide is rapidly scavenged and the supply rates of dissolved inorganic carbon from the atmosphere to alkaline media are high. The present study aimed to identify microalgal strains that can cope with high alkalinity and aeration rates. Eight strains were studied and the microalgae Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus almeriensis and Nannochloropsis gaditana were the only ones that were able to grow under these conditions. Their biomass productivities using laboratory‐scale bubble columns with no pH control and high aeration flow were 0.20 ± 0.03, 0.24 ± 0.03 and 0.08 ± 0.01 g·L−1·day−1, respectively. The production of the two former was scaled up to pilot‐scale bubble columns. Overall, the amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide that was transformed into biomass was in the range of 10%–30%, depending on the strain used and the photobioreactor setup. The biomass was rich in proteins and β‐carotene, both valuable products, highlighting the potential production of food ingredients while capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safflower is a traditional medicine commonly applied for the treatment of varicella in South Sulawesi. The aim of this study is to study the effect of extraction methods and solvents on phytochemical content and antioxidant capacity in the extraction of safflower. The study began with sample extraction with various solvents, i.e., water, ethanol 70, methanol, ethyl acetate and hexane and various methods, i.e., reflux, Soxhlet, hot maceration, cold maceration and room temperature maceration. Each extract was standardized for its phytochemical content, i.e., phenolics, flavonoids and carotenoids and the antioxidant capacities were also determined by the radical scavenging 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, total antioxidant capacity, cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity and Ferric reducing antioxidant power. The results indicated that the optimum total phenolic content was obtained when the florets were refluxed with methanol, flavonoids were refluxed with 70 % ethanol and carotenoids were Soxhleted with methanol. The research data also showed that 70 % ethanol and methanol have maximal antioxidant capacity. The results conclude that 70 % ethanol and methanol as solvents have the potential to extract the highest levels of phytochemical content and antioxidant substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paphia textile is an economically important bivalve cultured in southeastern China. The feet, as the main edible part of P. textile, vary in color from white to orange. Previous studies have suggested that the orange feet of P. textile contain higher levels of carotenoids than the white feet, but the kinds of carotenoids are not known. The pigments identified in this study can facilitate further analysis of their underlying molecular mechanism and enable the breeding of P. textile with high carotenoid content. The pigments were extracted from the orange feet of P. textile by an acetone extraction method, and then, the extracted pigments were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Moreover, the MS analysis was carried out with an electrospray ionization (ESI) source in the positive (ESI+) and negative (ESI-) ion modes. A total of 47 substances were detected, including 9 terpenoids, 7 amino acids and peptides, 13 lipids, 9 organic acids, 2 types of vitamin A and 7 other substances. Furthermore, β-doradecin (3'-hydroxy-3,4-diketo-β-carotene) was identified as the main pigment in the feet. This is the first report of the presence of β-doradecin, a type of carotenoid, in bivalves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the mitigating effects of spermidine on salinity-stressed yarrow plants (Achillea millefolium L.), an economically important medicinal crop. Plants were treated with four salinity levels (0, 30, 60, 90 mM NaCl) and three spermidine concentrations (0, 1.5, 3 μM). Salinity induced electrolyte leakage in a dose-dependent manner, increasing from 22% at 30 mM to 56% at 90 mM NaCl without spermidine. However, 1.5 μM spermidine significantly reduced leakage across salinities by 1.35–11.2% relative to untreated stressed plants. Photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, b, carotenoids) also exhibited salinity- and spermidine-modulated responses. While salinity decreased chlorophyll a, both spermidine concentrations increased chlorophyll b and carotenoids under most saline conditions. Salinity and spermidine synergistically elevated osmoprotectants proline and total carbohydrates, with 3 μM spermidine augmenting proline and carbohydrates up to 14.4% and 13.1% at 90 mM NaCl, respectively. Antioxidant enzymes CAT, POD and APX displayed complex regulation influenced by treatment factors. Moreover, salinity stress and spermidine also influenced the expression of linalool and pinene synthetase genes, with the highest expression levels observed under 90 mM salt stress and the application of 3 μM spermidine. The findings provide valuable insights into the responses of yarrow plants to salinity stress and highlight the potential of spermidine in mitigating the adverse effects of salinity stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumers have an increasing demand for fruit and vegetables with high nutritional value worldwide. However, most fruit and vegetables are vulnerable to quality loss and spoilage during processing, transportation, and storage. Among the recently introduced emerging technologies, supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2) has been extensively utilized to treat and maintain fruit and vegetables mainly due to its nontoxicity, safety, and environmentally friendly. SCCO2 technology generates low processing costs and mild processing conditions (temperature and pressure) that allow for the application of CO2 at a supercritical state. This review aimed to summarize the current knowledge on the influence of SCCO2 technology on the quality attributes of fruit and vegetable products, such as physicochemical properties (pH, color, cloud, particle size distribution, texture), sensory quality, and nutritional composition (ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, carotenoids, and betalains). In addition, the effects and mechanisms of the SCCO2 technique on endogenous enzyme inactivation (polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, and pectin methylesterase) were also elucidated. Finally, the prospects of the SCCO2 technique for industrial application was discussed from the economic and regulatory aspect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae are gaining attention as they are considered green fabrics able to synthesize many bioactive metabolites, with unique biological activities. However, their use at an industrial scale is still a challenge because of the high costs related to upstream and downstream processes. Here, a biorefinery approach was proposed, starting from the biomass of the green microalga Pseudococcomyxa simplex for the extraction of two classes of molecules with a potential use in the cosmetic industry. Carotenoids were extracted first by an ultrasound-assisted extraction, and then, from the residual biomass, lipids were obtained by a conventional extraction. The chemical characterization of the ethanol extract indicated lutein, a biosynthetic derivative of α-carotene, as the most abundant carotenoid. The extract was found to be fully biocompatible on a cell-based model, active as antioxidant and with an in vitro anti-aging property. In particular, the lutein-enriched fraction was able to activate Nrf2 pathway, which plays a key role also in aging process. Finally, lipids were isolated from the residual biomass and the isolated fatty acids fraction was composed by palmitic and stearic acids. These molecules, fully biocompatible, can find application as emulsifiers and softener agents in cosmetic formulations. Thus, an untapped microalgal species can represent a sustainable source for cosmeceutical formulations. Key points: • Pseudococcomyxa simplex has been explored in a cascade approach. • Lutein is the main extracted carotenoid and has antioxidant and anti-aging activity. • Fatty acids are mainly composed of palmitic and stearic acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.) is a halophyte that could become an alternative crop because of its interest as a functional food and its adaptation to high‐saline soils. In this work, leaves from wild ice plants were compared with their cultivated counterparts in a soilless system at different salinities and light exposures for assessing growth parameters, moisture, fatty acid profiles, total carotenoids, phenolic compounds, vitamin C, antioxidant activity, and antiproliferative activity against the HT‐29 colorectal cancer cell line. Moisture ranged between 876 and 955 g kg−1, and wild plants contained higher proportions of α‐linolenic acid (58.7%–60.7% of total fatty acids) than cultivated ones (20.4%–36.6%). Vitamin C ranged between 819 and 1143 mg kg−1 fresh leaves. Higher salinity led to a larger production of carotenoids, whereas plant mass, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity increased in plants grown using L8 NS1 and L8 AP67 lamps in comparison with white‐light ones. Phenolic profiles were assessed by LC coupled to a hybrid mass spectrometer Q‐Orbitrap. Total phenolic acid content was 3–4‐fold higher than that of flavonoids, and sinapic, p‐coumaric, gallic, 4‐hydroxybenzoic, and 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzoic acids, as well as gallocatechin, occurred in all samples. Hydroalcoholic extracts of ice plant leaves showed dose‐ and time‐dependent antiproliferative activity against the HT‐29 human colorectal cancer cell line, and GI50 was between 920 and 977 μg mL−1 of plant extract. This work contributes to improving knowledge about the growth parameters, phytochemical profiles, and biological activities of wild and cultivated ice plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anticancer, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties of carotenoids from saffron or apocarotenoids (e.g., crocin, safranal, crocetin, and picrocrocin) have prompted research into their benefits. Apocarotenoids seem to be effective compound for the treatment of chronic diseases, such as neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, cancer, respiratory, and metabolic disorders. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an essential organelle found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells that participates in the biosynthesis of proteins, lipids, and steroid hormones. Given the role of the ER in the regulation of several fundamental biological processes, including metabolic pathways and immune responses, aberrant ER function can have a significant influence on these vital processes and result in serious pathological consequences. Exposure of cell to adverse environmental challenges, such as toxic agents, ischemia, and so on, causes accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins in the ER lumen, also called ER stress. There is a growing evidence to suggest that ER disturbance in the form of oxidative/nitrosative stress and subsequent apoptotic cell death plays major roles in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative diseases, and liver diseases. Apocarotenoids with their unique properties can modulate ER stress through PERK/eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP (protein kinase R (PKR)‐like ER kinase/eukaryotic initiation factor 2α/activating transcription factor 4/C/EBP /homologous protein) and X‐Box Binding Protein 1/activating transcription factor 6 (XBP1/ATF6) pathways. In addition, they suppress apoptosis through inhibition of endoplasmic and mitochondrial‐dependent caspase cascade and can stimulate SIRT1 (silent information regulator 1) and Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2) expression, thereby leading to protection against oxidative stress. This review summarizes the potential benefits of apocarotenoids in various ER‐stress‐related disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heimdallarchaeia is a class of the Asgardarchaeota, are the most probable candidates for the archaeal protoeukaryote ancestor that have been identified to date. However, little is known about their life habits regardless of their ubiquitous distribution in diverse habitats, which is especially true for Heimdallarchaeia from deep-sea environments. In this study, we obtained 13 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) of Heimdallarchaeia from the deep-sea cold seep and hydrothermal vent. These MAGs belonged to orders o_Heimdallarchaeales and o_JABLTI01, and most of them (9 MAGs) come from the family f_Heimdallarchaeaceae according to genome taxonomy database (GTDB). These are enriched for common eukaryote-specific signatures. Our results show that these Heimdallarchaeia have the metabolic potential to reduce sulfate (assimilatory) and nitrate (dissimilatory) to sulfide and ammonia, respectively, suggesting a previously unappreciated role in biogeochemical cycling. Furthermore, we find that they could perform both TCA and rTCA pathways coupled with pyruvate metabolism for energy conservation, fix CO2 and generate organic compounds through an atypical Wood-Ljungdahl pathway. In addition, many genes closely associated with bacteriochlorophyll and carotenoid biosynthesis, and oxygen-dependent metabolic pathways are identified in these Heimdallarchaeia MAGs, suggesting a potential light-utilization by pigments and microoxic lifestyle. Taken together, our results indicate that Heimdallarchaeia possess a mixotrophic lifestyle, which may give them more flexibility to adapt to the harsh deep-sea conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate antibacterial activity of pigment extracted from bacteria, isolated from soil samples. During the study, 20 soil samples were collected from different areas (forest, agriculture fields, river sides and dumping sites) of Kathmandu and Lalitpur districts which were processed for isolation of pigment producing bacteria by spread plate technique. The pigmented bacterial isolates were identified and enriched in nutrient broth. Then, pigment was extracted in 95% methanol as solvent, which was further characterized using UV-Vis Spectrophotometric and TLC analysis. The obtained crude pigment extract was processed to carry out the antimicrobial susceptibility assay using agar well diffusion method. Out of 13 total pigmented bacteria isolates, four different colored pigmented bacterial isolates (S4O, S11Y, S14P and S17G) which produced efficient pigment on nutrient agar were chosen and they were further processed. Among these isolates, S4O was identified as Staphylococcus aureus, S11Y was identified as Micrococcus luteus, S14P was identified as Micrococcus roseus and S17G was identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa respectively. On characterization using UV-Vis Spectrophotometric and TLC analysis, the pigment extracted from isolates S4O, S11Y and S14P were found to be Carotenoids and from isolate S17G was found to be Pyocyanin in nature. The maximum antibacterial activity was shown against Staphylococcus aureus from all the four pigments extracts. The green color pigment extract from isolate S17G was found to be most effective against all the Gram-positive and Gram-negative test bacteria. This study suggests that these pigment extracts from pigmented bacteria may have beneficial antibacterial roles that can be exploited in controlling unwanted bacterial growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human body can easily convert β‐carotene into retinol (a precursor of vitamin A), a significant ingredient in dietary supplements. The need for commercial natural pigment production, including β‐carotene, has led to intensive research in this area. Processing after biosynthesis is a vital stage that involves the use of nontoxic solvents, efficient mechanical disruption of cells, and the isolation of the required compounds. With the growing popularity of green extraction methods and the increasing market demand for carotenoids due to their health benefits, the use of clean, nontoxic, flash‐hydrolyzed biomass for carotenoid production presents a significant advantage. Furthermore, the remaining biomass can serve as a protein source for animal feed, thereby aligning with the principles of the biorefinery concept. In this study, our aim was to optimize the disruption of cells in two microalgal species using flash hydrolysis (FH). We applied two distinct levels of pressure and four separate temperature conditions over a brief residence time. Following this, we employed an ethanol extraction method to assess the efficiency of carotenoid pigment extraction. Flash hydrolysis is a chemical‐free subcritical water‐based continuous‐flow process, injected with wet biomass slurry at a high temperature (150–250 °C) for a very short time (8–12 s) to obtain bioproducts. In this study, we discovered that the pigment β‐carotene constituted 0.04 to 0.3% of the dry biomass in the case of Chlorella vulgaris. Bands of lutein and zeaxanthin were also observed in the thin layer chromatography (TLC) analysis of the treated slurry. This was achieved under conditions of an effective temperature of 200 °C and a pressure of 1700 psi. The Arthrospira platensis (1Tex), β‐carotene yield was 0.014 to 0.021% of dry biomass. Some lutein and zeaxanthin bands were also found in the treated slurry with an effective temperature of 150 °C and 1000 psi pressure. This study reports pigment extraction by FH for the first time. It is a viable process to scale up high‐value natural products like carotenoids from microalgae at the industrial level without adverse environmental impacts. Due to low residence time, the temperature does not have a negative effect on pigments; cell rupture was accomplished effectively using water as a solvent. A considerable amount of pigment could be recovered from microalgae at specific combinations of temperature and pressure depending on the type of cell wall that microalgae possess. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The consumption of foods such as sweet potato and cassava with high levels of carotenoids is a possible solution to reduce vitamin A deficiency. In this study, we evaluated the kinetics of thermal degradation of carotenoids. The content of carotenoids was quantified by high‐performance liquid chromatography, first in fresh material, then in flour and finally in bakery products using mixtures of wheat, sweet potato and cassava. The degree of acceptance of the bakery products by children was also assessed through a sensory acceptance test. Results: The study found that the degradation of carotenoid compounds in sweet potato followed first‐order kinetics and fitted the Arrhenius equation with correlations of R2 > 0.9. The retention rates of all‐trans‐β‐carotene were 77%, 56% and 48% at cooking temperatures of 75, 85 and 95 °C respectively, during a cooking time of 20 min. The concentrations of all‐trans‐β‐carotene, after baking, for bread, cookies and cake were 15, 19 and 14 μg g−1 db, respectively. In a sensory acceptance test carried out in a school, 47.6% of the boys and 79.2% of the girls rated the cookies made from a mixture of cassava, sweet potato and wheat flour with the indicator I like it a lot. Conclusion: The content of carotenoid compounds was reduced by exposure to high temperatures and long cooking times. The combinations of cooking time and temperature which minimized degradation of all‐trans‐β‐carotene occurred at 75 °C–20 min and 95 °C–10 min. All‐trans‐β‐carotene retentions for bread, cookies and cake were 25%, 15% and 11% respectively. The mixture of wheat, sweet potato and cassava flour can be considered in the development of cookies with positive contributions of all‐trans‐β‐carotenes and with a good acceptance by children between 9 and 13 years old. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Galactinol synthase (GolS), which catalyses the synthesis of galactinol, is the first critical enzyme in the biosynthesis of raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFOs) and contributes to plant growth and development, and resistance mechanisms. However, its role in fruit development remains largely unknown. In this study, we used CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) to create the gols2 mutant showing uniformly green fruits without dark-green shoulders, and promoting fruit ripening. Analysis indicated that galactinol was undetectable in the ovaries and fruits of the mutant, and the accumulation of chlorophyll and chloroplast development was suppressed in the fruits. RNA-sequencing analysis showed that genes related to chlorophyll accumulation and chloroplast development were down-regulated, including PROTOCHLOROPHYLLIDE OXIDOREDUCTASE , GOLDEN 2-LIKE 2 , and CHLOROPHYLL A/B-BINDING PROTEINS. In addition, early color transformation and ethylene release was prompted in the gols2 lines by regulation of the expression of genes involved in carotenoid and ethylene metabolism (e.g. PHYTOENE SYNTHASE 1 , CAROTENE CIS-TRANS ISOMERASE , and 1-AMINOCYCLOPROPANE-1-CARBOXYLIC ACID SYNTHASE2/4) and fruit ripening (e.g. RIPENING INHIBITOR , NON-RIPENING , and APETALA2a). Our results provide evidence for the involvement of GolS2 in pigment and ethylene metabolism of tomato fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to evaluate nutrient retention in mango, avocado, and tomato dried using freezing, refractance windows, and oven methods. The quality parameters of the dried products were assessed, such as color, water activity, and antioxidant content. Greater color retention was observed for freeze-dried products than for products dried using other methods. All products showed low water activity (>0.4), which prevented microbial growth. Freeze-dried products had the highest content of lycopene and carotenoids. Instead, more flavonoids and phenolics were detected in the refractance window method and then in the oven-dried products. Although freeze-dried products are preferred, the refractance windows method could be a promising drying technology because of its energy savings, easy operations, and low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vanillin is one of the world's most important flavor and fragrance compounds used in foods and cosmetics. In plants, vanillin is reportedly biosynthesized from ferulic acid via the hydratase/lyase-type enzyme VpVAN. However, in biotechnological and biocatalytic applications, the use of VpVAN limits the production of vanillin. Although microbial enzymes are helpful as substitutes for plant enzymes, synthesizing vanillin from ferulic acid in one step using microbial enzymes remains a challenge. Here, we developed a single enzyme that catalyzes vanillin production from ferulic acid in a coenzyme-independent manner via the rational design of a microbial dioxygenase in the carotenoid cleavage oxygenase family using computational simulations. This enzyme acquired catalytic activity toward ferulic acid by introducing mutations into the active center to increase its affinity for ferulic acid. We found that the single enzyme can catalyze not only the production of vanillin from ferulic acid but also the synthesis of other aldehydes from p-coumaric acid, sinapinic acid, and coniferyl alcohol. These results indicate that the approach used in this study can greatly expand the range of substrates available for the dioxygenase family of enzymes. The engineered enzyme enables efficient production of vanillin and other value-added aldehydes from renewable lignin-derived compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on the association between serum carotenoids and cancer-related death. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2001–2006 and 2017–2018), the study encompasses 10,277 participants older than age 20 years, with recorded baseline characteristics and serum carotenoid concentrations (including α-carotene, trans -β-carotene, cis -β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, trans -lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin). We hypothesized that serum carotenoid concentrations were negatively associated with cancer-related death. The weighted chi-square analyses indicate significant negative correlations between higher serum concentrations of α-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, trans -lycopene, and total carotenoids, and the risk of cancer-related deaths. Using weighted Cox regression analysis, this study confirms that α-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, trans -lycopene, and total carotenoids, as continuous or categorical variables, are inversely related to cancer mortality (P <.0001). Furthermore, considering competitive risk events, lower concentrations of serum β-cryptoxanthin (Fine-Gray P = 1.12e-04), trans -lycopene (P = 5.68e-14), and total carotenoids (P =.03) are associated with an increased risk of cancer-related deaths. The research reveals a crucial inverse relationship between serum carotenoid concentrations and cancer-related death. • Higher α-carotene concentration links to lower cancer death risk. • Higher β-cryptoxanthin concentration links to lower cancer death risk. • Higher trans-lycopene concentration links to lower cancer death risk. • Higher total carotenoids concentration links to lower cancer death risk. • Study used data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The present study encompasses 10,277 participants older than age 20 years, with recorded baseline characteristics and serum carotenoid concentration (including α-carotene, trans -β-carotene, cis -β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, trans -lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin). The research reveals an inverse relationship between serum total carotenoids concentrations and cancer-related death. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet pattern. • Neuroprotective phytonutrients called carotenoids may be a distinguishing feature. • MIND diet accordance was disproportionately related to carotenoid intake. • MIND accordance was the strongest predictor of lutein + zeaxanthin and β-carotene. • These carotenoids might be vital in dietary patterns for promoting cognitive health. The Mediterranean-Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) dietary pattern is associated with reduced cognitive decline and dementia risk. However, the nutrient features that distinguish the MIND from other patterns are unknown. We investigated the relationship between accordance to the MIND pattern and carotenoid intake (phytonutrients hypothesized to confer neuroprotection) relative to the Mediterranean, DASH, and Healthy Eating Index (HEI-2020). We hypothesized that MIND diet accordance would be a stronger predictor of carotenoid intake relative to other diet indices. A total of 396 adults (aged 19–82 years) completed the Dietary History Questionnaire to assess carotenoid intake and adherence to each diet index. Stepwise regressions with adjustment for covariates followed by the Meng's Z-test were used to compare correlation strength between each diet pattern and carotenoid. All diet patterns were positively associated with lutein and zeaxanthin, β-carotene, α-carotene, and β-cryptoxanthin (all βs ≥0.38, P s <.01). Effect size comparisons revealed that MIND accordance predicted a greater proportion of variance in lutein and zeaxanthin (all Z s ≥ 3.3, P s <.001) and β-carotene (all Z s ≥ 2.6, P s <.01) relative to the Mediterranean, DASH, and HEI-2020. MIND accordance explained a greater proportion of variance in α-carotene (Z = 3.8, P <.001) and β-cryptoxanthin (Z = 3.6, P <.001) relative to the HEI-2020. MIND diet accordance was disproportionately related to carotenoid intake, indicating the MIND index places greater emphasis on carotenoid-rich foods, particularly those containing lutein, zeaxanthin, and β-carotene, relative to other diet indices. Future research is needed to define the role of these carotenoids in nutritional interventions for cognitive health. Greater adherence to the MIND diet pattern was disproportionately associated with higher dietary lutein + zeaxanthin and β-carotene intake relative to the Mediterranean, DASH, and HEI-2020 patterns among 396 healthy adults. Carotenoid intake is important to consider in dietary pattern interventions for supporting cognitive health. Abbreviations: DASH, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension; HEI-2020, Healthy Eating Index 2020; MIND, Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yerba Mate drink made from dried and crushed leaves and twigs of Paraguayan holly (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil.), which is a valuable source of bioactive substances, in particular antioxidants. The available literature lacks data on changes in the content and profile of bioactive compounds such as tannins, caffeine, the phenolic acid profile of flavonoids and carotenoids, as well as total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity in Yerba Mate infusions depending on different brewing conditions, and how different brewing conditions affect the physicochemical properties of these infusions. Therefore, this study evaluated the physicochemical properties of dried and Yerba Mate infusions prepared via single and double brewing processes at 70 °C and 100 °C. The organoleptic evaluation, as well as the instrumental color measurement, showed significant changes in the total color difference (ΔE) and the L*a*b* chromatic coordinates of dried Yerba Mate samples and their infusions. Moreover, the research showed higher contents of tannins (mean 1.36 ± 0.14 g/100 g d.m.), caffeine (mean 17.79 ± 3.49 mg/g d.m.), carotenoids (mean 12.90 ± 0.44 μg/g d.m.), phenolic acids (mean 69.97 ± 7.10 mg/g d.m.), flavonoids (mean 5.47 ± 1.78 mg/g d.m.), total polyphenols (mean 55.26 ± 8.51 mg GAE/g d.m.), and antioxidant activity (mean 2031.98 ± 146.47 μM TEAC/g d.m.) in single-brewed Yerba Mate infusions compared to double-brewed (0.77 ± 0.12 g/100 g d.m., 14.28 ± 5.80 mg/g d.m., 12.67 ± 0.62 μg/g d.m., 57.75 ± 8.73 mg/g d.m., 3.64 ± 0.76 mg/g d.m., 33.44 ± 6.48 mg GAE/g d.m. and 1683.09 ± 155.34 μM TEAC/g d.m., respectively). In addition, infusions prepared at a lower temperature (70 °C) were characterized by a higher content of total polyphenols and higher antioxidant activity, in contrast to the tannin and carotenoid contents, the levels of which were higher at 100 °C than at 70 °C. Considering the high amount of bioactive ingredients, in particular antioxidants, and a wide range of health benefits, it is worth including Yerba Mate in the daily diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the chemical composition, nutritional, and biological properties of extracts obtained from A. melanocarpa berries using different extraction methods and solvents. Hydrodistillation and supercritical fluid extraction with CO2 allowed us to isolate fruit essential oil (HDEX) and fixed oil (SFEEX), respectively. A phenol-enriched extract was obtained using a mild ultrasound-assisted maceration with methanol (UAMM). The HDEX most abundant component, using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS), was italicene epoxide (17.2%), followed by hexadecanoic acid (12.4%), khusinol (10.5%), limonene (9.7%), dodecanoic acid (9.7%), and (E)-anethole (6.1%). Linoleic (348.9 mg/g of extract, 70.5%), oleic (88.9 mg/g, 17.9%), and palmitic (40.8 mg/g, 8.2%) acids, followed by α-linolenic and stearic acids, were the main fatty acids in SFEEX determined using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a photodiode array detector and an evaporative light scattering detector (HPLC-DAD/ELSD). HPLC-DAD analyses of SFEEX identified β-carotene as the main carotenoid (1.7 mg/g), while HPLC with fluorescence detection (FLU) evidenced α-tocopherol (1.2 mg/g) as the most abundant tocopherol isoform in SFEEX. Liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-MS (LC-ESI-MS) analysis of UAMM showed the presence of quercetin-sulfate (15.6%, major component), malvidin 3-O-(6-O-p-coumaroyl) glucoside-4-vinylphenol adduct (pigment B) (9.3%), di-caffeoyl coumaroyl spermidine (7.6%), methyl-epigallocatechin (5.68%), and phloretin (4.1%), while flavonoids (70.5%) and phenolic acids (23.9%) emerged as the most abundant polyphenol classes. UAMM exerted a complete inhibition of the cholesterol oxidative degradation at 140 °C from 75 μg of extract, showing 50% protection at 30.6 μg (IA50). Furthermore, UAMM significantly reduced viability (31–48%) in A375 melanoma cells in the range of 500–2000 μg/mL after 96 h of incubation (MTT assay), with a low toxic effect in normal HaCaT keratinocytes. The results of this research extend the knowledge of the nutritional and biological properties of A. melanocarpa berries, providing useful information on specific extracts for potential food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aim of the study is to investigate the therapeutic effects of astaxanthin (AST) and resveratrol (RVT) on multiorgan damage in an animal model of the supraceliac aortic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). Methods In this study, 28 rats (n = 7/group), 200 to 250 g in weight, were randomized to four groups (1: Sham, 2: Control + I/R, 3: AST + I/R, and 4: RVT + I/R). Following the abdominal incision, aortic dissection was performed in the sham group without injury. Other groups underwent I/R injury via supraceliac aortic clamping (20 minutes) and reperfusion. The rats were administered olive oil (3 mL/kg) orally for 2 weeks before and 1 week after the laparotomy. Additionally, oral AST (10 mg/kg) or RVT (50 mg/kg) was given to the study groups. All rats were sacrificed on the 3rd week of the experiment after blood samples were taken for analysis. Multiple rat tissues were removed. Results We found that RVT increased total antioxidant status (TAS) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, and decreased total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, while AST increased the levels of TAS, decreased TNF-α, MDA, TOS, and OSI (p <0.05). Pathological investigations of the rat tissues revealed that both AST and RVT ameliorated tissue damage and apoptosis. Conclusion Our study suggests that AST and RVT might show therapeutic effects against oxidative tissue damage and apoptosis in an animal model of aortic I/R. Further studies are required. Key Points Major congenital heart diseases are at high risk of multiorgan damage. Re-establishment of blood flow may result in ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Astaxanthin and resveratrol may have therapeutic effects against I/R injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone health is the result of a tightly regulated balance between bone modeling and bone remodeling, and alterations of these processes have been observed in several diseases both in adult and pediatric populations. The imbalance in bone remodeling can ultimately lead to osteoporosis, which is most often associated with aging, but contributing factors can already act during the developmental age, when over a third of bone mass is accumulated. The maintenance of an adequate bone mass is influenced by genetic and environmental factors, such as physical activity and diet, and particularly by an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. In addition, it has been claimed that the integration of specific nutraceuticals such as resveratrol, anthocyanins, isoflavones, lycopene, curcumin, lutein, and β-carotene and the intake of bioactive compounds from the diet such as honey, tea, dried plums, blueberry, and olive oil can be efficient strategies for bone loss prevention. Nutraceuticals and functional foods are largely used to provide medical or health benefits, but there is an urge to determine which products have adequate clinical evidence and a strong safety profile. The aim of this review is to explore the scientific and clinical evidence of the positive role of nutraceuticals and functional food in bone health, focusing both on molecular mechanisms and on real-world studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoid cleavage oxygenases can cleave carotenoids into a range of biologically important products. Carotenoid isomerooxygenase (NinaB) and β, β-carotene 15, 15′-monooxygenase (BCO1) are two important oxygenases. In order to understand the roles that both oxygenases exert in crustaceans, we first investigated NinaB-like (EsNinaBl) and BCO1-like (EsBCO1l) within the genome of Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis). Their functions were then deciphered through an analysis of their expression patterns, an in vitro β-carotene degradation assay, and RNA interference. The results showed that both EsNinaBl and EsBCO1l contain an RPE65 domain and exhibit high levels of expression in the hepatopancreas. During the molting stage, EsNinaBl exhibited significant upregulation in stage C, whereas EsBCO1l showed significantly higher expression levels at stage AB. Moreover, dietary supplementation with β-carotene resulted in a notable increase in the expression of EsNinaBl and EsBCO1l in the hepatopancreas. Further functional assays showed that the EsNinaBl expressed in E. coli underwent significant changes in its color, from orange to light; in addition, its β-carotene cleavage was higher than that of EsBCO1l. After the knockdown of EsNinaBl or EsBCO1l in juvenile E. sinensis, the expression levels of both genes were significantly decreased in the hepatopancreas, accompanied by a notable increase in the redness (a*) values. Furthermore, a significant increase in the β-carotene content was observed in the hepatopancreas when EsNinaBl-mRNA was suppressed, which suggests that EsNinaBl plays an important role in carotenoid cleavage, specifically β-carotene. In conclusion, our findings suggest that EsNinaBl and EsBCO1l may exhibit functional co-expression and play a crucial role in carotenoid cleavage in crabs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physiological and environmental cues prompt microbes to synthesize diverse carotenoids, including dihydroxy xanthophylls, facilitating their adaptation and survival. Lutein and its isomeric counterpart, zeaxanthin, are notable dihydroxy xanthophylls with bioactive properties such as antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and neuroprotective effects, particularly beneficial for human ocular health. However, global natural resources for co-producing lutein and zeaxanthin are scarce, with zeaxanthin lacking commercial sources, unlike lutein sourced from marigold plants and microalgae. Traditionally, dihydroxy xanthophyll production primarily relies on petrochemical synthetic routes, with limited biological sourcing reported. Nonetheless, microbiological synthesis presents promising avenues as a commercial source, albeit challenged by low dihydroxy xanthophyll yield at high cell density. Strategies involving optimization of physical and chemical parameters are essential to achieve high-quality dihydroxy xanthophyll products. This overview briefly discusses dihydroxy xanthophyll biosynthesis and highlights recent advancements, discoveries, and industrial benefits of lutein and zeaxanthin production from microorganisms as alternative biofactories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thraustochytrids are eukaryotes and obligate marine protists. They are increasingly considered to be a promising feed additive because of their superior and sustainable application in the production of health-benefiting bioactive compounds, such as fatty acids, carotenoids, and sterols. Moreover, the increasing demand makes it critical to rationally design the targeted products by engineering industrial strains. In this review, bioactive compounds accumulated in thraustochytrids were comprehensively evaluated according to their chemical structure, properties, and physiological function. Metabolic networks and biosynthetic pathways of fatty acids, carotenoids, and sterols were methodically summarized. Further, stress-based strategies used in thraustochytrids were reviewed to explore the potential methodologies for enhancing specific product yields. There are internal relationships between the biosynthesis of fatty acids, carotenoids, and sterols in thraustochytrids since they share some branches of the synthetic routes with some intermediate substrates in common. Although there are classic synthesis pathways presented in the previous research, the metabolic flow of how these compounds are being synthesized in thraustochytrids still remains uncovered. Further, combined with omics technologies to deeply understand the mechanism and effects of different stresses is necessary, which could provide guidance for genetic engineering. While gene-editing technology has allowed targeted gene knock-in and knock-outs in thraustochytrids, efficient gene editing is still required. This critical review will provide comprehensive information to benefit boosting the commercial productivity of specific bioactive substances by thraustochytrids. Thraustochytrids are considered a promising and sustainable nutrient source for long-chain unsa turated fatty acids, carotenoids, and sterols production with impressive biosynthetic capacity. The interactive relationships between the biosynthesis and metabolism flows of fatty acids, carotenoids, and sterols are summarized. The comprehensive information of multi-omics including genome, transcriptome, proteome, and metabolism for various species of Thraustochytrids has also been concluded. Potential gene-engineering methodologies for enhancing bioactive substance yields are explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Agave marmorata is important for the production of a traditional alcoholic beverage called mezcal and pulque. • The immersion frequency and culture medium volume had an effect during in vitro multiplication of A. marmorata. • The immersion frequency and culture medium volume had an effect on chlorophyll content of A. marmorata. • The Temporary Immersion Bioreactor is an alternative for micropropagation of A. marmorata. Agave marmorata is an important wild species in Mexico for mezcal and pulque production. Propagation by suckers and seeds is not sufficient to restore wild populations. The aim of this study was to develop a protocol for large-scale micropropagation of A. marmorata using a temporary immersion bioreactor (TIB). The effect of liquid medium using a TIB and semi-solid medium as the control treatment was compared. Different immersion frequencies and culture medium volumes per explant were evaluated in the TIB. In all treatments, the percentage of hyperhydricity, number of shoots per explant, shoot length, and total chlorophyll and carotenoid content were evaluated. In addition, the survival rate during acclimatization was evaluated. The results obtained show that the TIB with an immersion of 2 min every 8 h and with a culture medium volume of 50 mL had the best developmental parameters, with 19.60 shoots per explant, a shoot length of 1.74 cm and a percentage of hyperhydricity of 3.33 %. The highest chlorophyll content was observed in temporary immersion every 8 h, with 100, 75 and 50 mL of culture medium per explant. Regarding carotenoid content, the highest content was found at the 8 and 12 h immersion frequencies, with the culture medium volumes of 100, 75 and 50 mL per explant. For acclimatization, no differences were found in the survival rate between the culture systems evaluated. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the use of a TIB is an alternative for large-scale micropropagation of A. marmorata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chardonnay is a non-floral grape with economic value and nutritional properties that is widely grown in northwestern China. However, limited research has been conducted on exogenous spraying to regulate volatile compound metabolism (especially isoprene metabolism) in Chardonnay grapes. Benzothiadiazole (BTH) can induce disease resistance and augment the contents of phenolics and volatile compounds in grapes. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of BTH on the accumulation of isoprene aroma, carotenoid levels and the activity profiles of key enzymes. Chardonnay grapevines were treated with 0.37 mM BTH at veraison to investigate the impact on physicochemical parameters, carotenoids, metabolic enzyme activities, and free and bound isoprenoids in developing Chardonnay grapes. The results showed that reducing sugars, and total soluble solids of BTH-treated grapes increased, while the content of titratable acidity, β-carotene, zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, chlorophyll, and total carotenoids in treated ripe grapes decreased relative to control berries. BTH-treated ripe grapes exhibited elevated levels of bound norisoprenoids and three key enzemy activities (carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase, phytoene synthase, lycopene β-cyclase), with a slight decrease in free norisoprenoids. Free and bound terpenoids profiles were also significantly enhanced by BTH treatment at veraison. Our findings offer novel perspectives into the modulation of isoprene biosynthesis in grape berries when exposed to BTH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe association between dietary carotenoids and breast cancer (BC) risks were inconsistent. Therefore, this study investigated the association between dietary carotenoid and BC risks among Korean women. We recruited participants from the National Cancer Centre of Korea. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated with a logistic regression model. There was an inverse association between dietary carotenoid subclasses and BC risks; in particular, a higher intake of β-carotene and lutein/zeaxanthin was associated with reduced BC risks. After subgroup analysis with estrogen receptor (ER)/progesterone receptor (PR) status, there was similar trend among ER-/PR- women. We further investigated which foods contribute to the carotenoid intake. A higher intake of radish leaves, kale, and bracken was associated with lowered BC risks. Accordingly, dietary carotenoid, particularly β-carotene and lutein/zeaxanthin, appears to be associated with a lower risk of BC among Korean women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DPA membranes from Allochromatium vinosum cells, in which carotenoid biosynthesis was inhibited using diphenylamine (DPA) were obtained, into which rhodopin was incorporated. The LH2 complex with rhodopin content of 85% was isolated. Using a test for the thermal stability of LH2 complexes (DPA and with incorporated rhodopin), it was established that carotenoids of the early stages of biosynthesis (≤1 molecules per complex) did not interfere with rhodopin incorporation. It was found that when the LH2 complex with incorporated rhodopin was irradiated with light at the wavelength of 502 nm, BChl850 was photobleached at a rate close to that in the control LH2 complex. This indicates that rhodopin, after being incorporated into the DPA LH2 complex, is capable of generating singlet oxygen under illumination. Previously obtained data on heterogeneity of the carotenoid composition in DPA LH2 complexes (variation in the number of individual carotenoids molecules per complex in the general population) and our earlier suggestion about the structural role of carotenoids, namely, their ability to stabilize the LH2 complexes, were confirmed. Based on analysis of our results, as well as of the literature data, the interaction of singlet oxygen and carotenoids is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bionomics of an insect and metabolic flux of the host plant are important tools to decipher the status of plant resistance against insect species. This study illuminates vital information on aphid‐induced levels of phytochemicals in the siliquae of Brassica juncea cultivars and their effect on host selection and population growth parameters of Lipaphis erysimi. The current study unveiled that the siliquae preference, intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), gross reproductive rate (GRR) and net reproductive rate (R0) were significantly lower on Pusa Mustard 27, DRMR 150‐35, RLC 3, NRCHB 101, Pusa Mustard 26 and Pusa Mustard 25. However, the mean generation time (T) and doubling time (DT) of L. erysimi were significantly longer (p < 0.001) in these genotypes. These cultivars were also found with elevated levels of aphid‐induced phytochemicals and their associated enzymes, except in a few cases. Total antioxidants, ferric ion reducing antioxidant power, chlorophyll A, total chlorophyll, ascorbate oxidase (AO), catalase, phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and myrosinase were found to contribute 49.18–85.30% variation for siliquae preference and bionomics of L. erysimi on the test B. juncea cultivars. The study revealed that phenols, antioxidants, chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B, total carotenoids, AO, ascorbate peroxidase, PAL, tyrosine ammonia lyase and myrosinase had significant and negative direct consequences on the siliquae preference and bionomics, thus can be exploited as biochemical markers to identify sources of resistance against L. erysimi. Furthermore, DRMR 150‐35, NRCHB 101, RLC 3, Pusa mustard 26, RH 749 and Pusa Mustard 27 were found with greater aphid‐induced defence phytochemicals and detrimental effects on the host selection and bionomics of L. erysimi, thus can be deployed in Brassica improvement program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In the current work, the effect of pumpkin parts on the oil content, total phenol, flavonoid, carotenoid quantities, antioxidant capacity, phenolic components, fatty acid profiles and mineral profiles of pumpkin parts was investigated. Total carotenoid and phenolic amounts of pumpkin parts were recorded to be from 36.84 (seed) and 29.92 μg g−1 (pulp) to 28.75 (pulp) and 67.68 mgGAE/100 g (peel) respectively. Also, total flavonoid quantities of the parts of pumpkin were assigned between 21.07 mg/100 g (pulp) and 220.36 mg/100 g (seed), while antioxidant activities of pumpkin samples range from 0.04 mmol kg−1 (pulp) to 0.82 mmol kg−1 (seed). Catechin and caffeic acid amounts of pumpkin parts varied from 13.25 (seed) and 77.31 mg/100 g (peel) to 4.70 (seed) and 7.60 mg/100 g (peel) respectively. The amount of catechin detected in the pumpkin peel was approximately two and five times higher than the pulp part. Resveratrol content was lowest in the pulp part of the pumpkin. Oleic and linoleic acid values of the oils ranged from 19.23% (peel) to 29.16% (seed) and from 18.15% (peel) to 51.06% (seed) respectively. Stearic, oleic and linoleic acids of pumpkin pulp oil were higher than pumpkin peel oil. Pumpkin seed oils are rich in oleic and linoleic acids. P, K, Mg, S and Fe were the dominant biogenic minerals of pumpkin parts. The most of total carotenoids and total phenols were accumulated in the peel part of the pumpkin fruit. The total flavonoid quantity of pumpkin seeds was approximately three times higher than the pumpkin peel part and ten times higher than the pulp part. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High soil salinity, a result of salt stress, poses a significant obstacle to crop cultivation, particularly for ornamental plants like narcissus. Plant growth regulators, such as methyl jasmonate (MeJA), have the potential to mitigate the impact of stressful conditions. This study involved different MeJA concentrations (0, 50, 100, and 200 µM) and varying levels of salt stress (4 and 8 dS m–1), along with a control level, in a pot experiment conducted using a complete randomized block design with three replicates at the Research Greenhouse, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch. The research revealed that salt stress led to a substantial increase in leaf proline and flavonoid levels, as well as electrolyte leakage (EL), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymatic activities. These increases were more pronounced when MeJA was applied concurrently with a decrease in EL, H2O2, and MDA. Conversely, salt stress was observed to reduce chlorophyll and carotenoid levels, relative water content (RWC), flower fresh weight, flower longevity on the plant, and flowering duration. This underscores MeJA's potential as a growth regulator that safeguards narcissus against salinity toxicity. The findings indicate that 100 µM MeJA activates an effective mechanism to mitigate the adverse effects of salinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato is the fourth most important food crop. Recently, negative effects of a temperature drop on field crops have been increasingly frequently recorded. The elucidation of the mechanisms of plant tolerance to cold contributes to the development of measures to reduce crop yield losses from prolonged low temperatures. Potato health can be improved with the help of microclonal propagation. We studied short-term treatments of roots with indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) or melatonin (Mel) as a stimulus to activate the protective responses of potato regenerants to the later effects of hypothermia. The effect of 4-h treatment of roots with 0.1 μM IAA or Mel solutions on the cold tolerance of Solanum tuberosum L. regenerant plants in aquaculture was investigated. Two lines of regenerants obtained in vitro from the apical (AR) and middle part (MR) of the shoot of sterile plants of different growth intensity were used as a study object. It was found that hypothermia (4 °C, 3 days) most affected the actively growing plant organs: leaves and roots in MR, and leaves, stems, and stolons in AR. The most damaged AR leaves retained severe dehydration and elevated oxidative status during natural recovery, despite increased superoxide dismutase intensity and free proline levels. Pretreatment of plants with individual hormones increased their resistance to damaging hypothermia, manifested by changes in metabolic and growth responses. IAA pretreatment exerted a greater positive effect than Mel pretreatment. IAA treatment stimulated the root and leaf growth recovery in MR by reducing oxidative stress and restoring constitutive water levels at increased free proline, ascorbic acid, and the sum of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Possible reasons for the differences between AR and MR hormone restoration therapy are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autophagy is recognized as a promising therapeutic target for traumatic brain injury (TBI). Crocetin is an aglycone of crocin naturally occurring in saffron and has been found to alleviate brain injury diseases. However, whether crocetin affects autophagy after TBI remains unknown. Therefore, we explore crocetin roles in autophagy after TBI. We used a weight-dropped model to induce TBI in C57BL/6J mice. Neurological severity scoring (NSS) and grip tests were used to evaluate the neurological level of injury. Brain edema, neuronal apoptosis, neuroinflammation and autophagy were detected by measurements of brain water content, TUNEL staining, ELISA kits and western blotting. Crocetin ameliorated neurological dysfunctions and brain edema after TBI. Crocetin reduced neuronal apoptosis and neuroinflammation and enhanced autophagy after TBI. Crocetin alleviates TBI by inhibiting neuronal apoptosis and neuroinflammation and activating autophagy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A local microalgal strain of Tetraselmis subcordiformis was cultivated at large-scale using open raceway pond. The temporal influence on the growth and lipidomic profile of the strain was investigated using optic density (OD) measurement and ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography. Results showed that triglycerides represented 57% of the total lipids on day 11 (exponential phase) and stayed consistently high until stationary phase, without affecting the biomass quantity. Moreover, a high expression of monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids such as ω-3 eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5), docosahexaenoic acid (22:6), palmitic (16:0) and palmitoleic acid (16:1) was observed by stationary phase. Carotenoid analysis also revealed the increase in lutein (65.2%) and β-carotene (71.4%) from day 6 to day 15. Our study showed that T. subcordiformis contained the highest amounts of valuable lipids, fatty acids and pigments in the stationary phase, which started on day 15 of culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a significant collection of plastic introduced by human activities, provides an ideal environment to study bacterial lifestyles on plastic substrates. We proposed that bacteria colonizing the floating plastic debris would develop strategies to deal with the ultraviolet‐exposed substrate, such as the production of antioxidant pigments. We observed a variety of pigmentation in 67 strains that were directly cultivated from plastic pieces sampled from the Garbage Patch. The genomic analysis of four representative strains, each distinct in taxonomy, revealed multiple pathways for carotenoid production. These pathways include those that produce less common carotenoids and a cluster of photosynthetic genes. This cluster appears to originate from a potentially new species of the Rhodobacteraceae family. This represents the first report of an aerobic anoxygenic photoheterotrophic bacterium from plastic biofilms. Spectral analysis showed that the bacteria actively produce carotenoids, such as beta‐carotene and beta‐cryptoxanthin, and bacteriochlorophyll a. Furthermore, we discovered that the genetic ability to synthesize carotenoids is more common in plastic biofilms than in the surrounding water communities. Our findings suggest that plastic biofilms could be an overlooked source of bacteria‐produced carotenoids, including rare forms. It also suggests that photoreactive molecules might play a crucial role in bacterial biofilm communities in surface water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A better understanding of how emulsifier type could differently influence the behavior of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) under the gastrointestinal digestion process, as well as at the cellular level, is of utmost importance for the NLC‐based formulations' optimization and risk assessment in the food field. In this study, NLC composed by fully hydrogenated soybean and high‐oleic sunflower oils were prepared using soy lecithin (NLC Lβ) or Tween 80 (NLC Tβ) as an emulsifier. β‐Carotene was entrapped within NLC developed as a promising strategy to overcome β‐carotene's low bioavailability and stability. The effect of emulsifier type on the digestibility of β‐carotene‐loaded NLC was evaluated using an in vitro dynamic digestion model mimicking peristalsis motion. The influence of β‐carotene‐loaded NLC on cell viability was assessed using Caco‐2 cells in vitro. NLC Tβ remained stable in the gastric compartment, presenting particle size (PS) similar to the initial NLC (PS: 245.68 and 218.18 nm, respectively), while NLC Lβ showed lower stability (PS > 1000 nm) in stomach and duodenum phases. NLC Tβ also provided high β‐carotene protection and delivery capacity (i.e., β‐carotene bioaccessibility increased 10‐fold). Based on the results of digestion studies, NLC Tβ has shown better physical stability during the passage through the in vitro dynamic gastrointestinal system than NLC Lβ. Moreover, the developed NLC did not compromise cell viability up to 25 µg/mL of β‐carotene. Thus, the NLC developed proved to be a biocompatible structure and able to incorporate and protect β‐carotene for further food applications. Practical Application: The findings of this study hold significant implications for industrial applications in terms of developing nanostructured lipid carriers from natural raw materials widely available and used to produce other lipid‐based products in the food industry, as an alternative to synthetic ones. In this respect, the β‐carotene‐loaded NLC developed in this study would find a great industrial application in the food industry, which is in constant search to develop functional foods capable of increasing the bioavailability of bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of carotenoids by yeast fermentation is an advantaged technology due to its easy scaling and safety. Nevertheless, carotenoid production needs an economic culture medium and other efficient yeast stains. The study aims to isolate and identify a yeast strain capable of producing carotenoids using a cost-effective substrate. A new strain was identified as Rhodotorula toruloides L/24-26-1, which can produce carotenoids at different pretreated and unpretreated sugarcane molasses concentrations (40 and 80 g/L). The highest biomass concentration (18.6 ± 0.6 g/L) was reached in the culture using 80 g/L of hydrolyzed molasses. On the other hand, the carotenoid accumulation reached the maximum value using pretreated molasses at 40 g/L (715.4 ± 15.1 µg/g d.w). In this case, the β-carotene was 1.5 times higher than that on the control medium. The yeast growth in molasses was not correlated with carotenoid production. The most outstanding production of The DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP tests demonstrated the antioxidant activity of the obtained carotenogenic extracts. This research demonstrated the R. toruloides L/24-26-1 strain biotechnological potential for carotenoid compounds. The yeast produces carotenoids with antioxidant activity in an inexpensive medium, such as sulfuric acid pretreated and unpretreated molasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To describe the variability in carotenoid content of human milk (HM) in mothers of very to extremely low birth weight preterm infants throughout lactation and to explore the relationship between lutein in HM and the occurrence of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in preterm infants. We recruited healthy mothers along with their preterm infants that were born at gestational age 24 + 2 to 29 + 6 weeks or with a birth weight under 1500 g and were exclusively breastfed HM. Each participant provided up to 7 HM samples (2–10 ml) on day 0–3 and once a week until 6 weeks. Additionally, when possible, a blood sample was collected from the infant at week 6. Concentrations of the major carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and lycopene) in all HM and blood samples were assessed and compared. Thirty-nine mother-infant dyads were included and 184 HM samples and 21 plasma samples were provided. Mean lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and lycopene concentration decreased as lactation progressed, being at their highest in colostrum samples (156.9 vs. 66.9 vs. 363.9 vs. 426.8 ng/ml, respectively). Lycopene (41%) and beta-carotene (36%) were the predominant carotenoids in colostrum and up to 2 weeks post-delivery. Inversely, the proportion of lutein and zeaxanthin increased with lactation duration to account for 45% of the carotenoids in mature HM. Lutein accounted for 58% of the carotenoids in infant plasma and only 28% in HM. Lutein content of transition and mature HM did not differ between mothers of ROP and non-ROP infants. Conclusion Carotenoid content of HM was dynamic and varied between mothers and as lactation progressed. Infant plasma displayed a distinct distribution of carotenoids from HM. What is Known: •Carotenoids have antioxidant properties and their contents is dynamic. •Preterm infants are susceptible to oxidative damage, which is a key factor in the pathogenesis process of ROP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY The apocarotenoid strigolactones (SLs) facilitate pre‐symbiotic communication between arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and plants. Related blumenol‐C‐glucosides (blumenols), have also been associated with symbiosis, but the cues that are involved in the regulation of blumenol accumulation during AM symbiosis remain unclear. In rice, our analyses demonstrated a strict correlation between foliar blumenol abundance and intraradical fungal colonisation. More specifically, rice mutants affected at distinct stages of the interaction revealed that fungal cortex invasion was required for foliar blumenol accumulation. Plant phosphate status and D14L hormone signalling had no effect, contrasting their known role in induction of SLs. This a proportion of the SL biosynthetic enzymes, D27 and D17, are equally required for blumenol production. These results importantly clarify that, while there is a partially shared biosynthetic pathway between SL and blumenols, the dedicated induction of the related apocarotenoids occurs in response to cues acting at distinct stages during the root colonisation process. However, we reveal that neither SLs nor blumenols are essential for fungal invasion of rice roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids play a role in preventing and impeding the progression of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs) through their anti-oxidative effects. This study evaluated associations between ASCVD risk and skin carotenoid (SC) levels, reflecting dietary carotenoid intake. Participants’ ASCVD risk was assessed using the Hisayama ASCVD risk prediction model, and SC levels were measured through a reflection spectroscope (Veggie Meter). The associations between high ASCVD risk and SC levels were analyzed using logistic regression analysis and a restricted cubic spline (RCS) model. A total of 1130 men and women (mean age: 56 years) from participants who underwent a health examination in Seirei Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Medicine in 2019 and 2022 were analyzed. Of these, 4.6% had moderate or high ASCVD risk. Mean SC values were 236, 315, 376, 447, and 606 in quintile Q1 to Q5, respectively. The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of SC quintile for moderate- or high-risk ASCVD was 0.24 (0.12–0.51) in Q5 (495 ≤), 0.42 (0.23–0.77) in Q4, 0.50 (0.29–0.88) in Q3, and 0.68 (0.41–1.12) in Q2 compared to Q1 (< 281). High SC values continuously showed non-linear inverse association with moderate- or high-risk for ASCVD in Japanese adults. Non-invasive SC measurements may be a good indicator for recommending carotenoids to prevent cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of clinical syndromes that is closely associated with an elevated risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In a series of animal experiments and clinical trials, crocus sativus and its component crocin have demonstrated promising hypoglycemic effects. However, there is currently insufficient evidence regarding their impact on cardiometabolic parameters. Our study aimed to assess the impact of Crocus sativus and crocin on glycemic control in individuals with metabolic syndrome and associated disorders, as well as their potential effects on improving cardiometabolic parameters. We searched Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases to ascertain the pertinent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) until December 30, 2023. Q-test and I2 statistics were utilized to evaluate heterogeneity among the included studies. Data were merged using a random-effects model and presented as (WMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The current comprehensive review and meta-analysis, encompassing 13 RCTs involving a total of 840 patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and associated disorders, demonstrates that Crocus sativus was superior to placebo on Hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c) (WMD: -0.31;95% CI [-0.44,-0.19]. P = 0.002) and systolic blood pressure(SBP) (WMD:-7.49;95% CI [-11.67,-3.30]. P = 0.99) respectively. Moreover, Crocus sativus improved fasting blood glucose (FBG) (WMD:-7.25;95% CI [-11.82, -2.57]. P = 0.002) when used crocin and on other chronic diseases. Crocus sativus reduced the total cholesterol (TC) among the metabolic syndromepatients (WMD:-13.64;95%CI [-26.26, -1.03]. P = 0.03). We demonstrated that Crocus sativus exerts beneficial effects on glycemic control and cardiometabolic parameters in individuals with metabolic syndrome and related disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Color of a food is one of the major factors influencing its acceptance by consumers. At presently synthetic dyes are the most commonly used food colorant in food industry by providing more esthetically appearance and as a means to quality control. However, the growing concern about health and environmental due to associated toxicity with synthetic food colorants has accelerated the global efforts to replace them with safer and healthy food colorants obtained from natural resources (plants, microorganisms, and animals). Further, many of these biocolorants not only provide myriad of colors to the food but also exert biological properties, thus they can be used as nutraceuticals in foods and beverages. In order to understand the importance of nature-derived pigments as food colorants, this review provides a thorough discussion on the natural origin of food colorants. Following this, different extraction methods for isolating biocolorants from plants and microbes were also discussed. Many of these biocolorants not only provide color, but also have many health promoting properties, for this reason their physicochemical and biological properties were also reviewed. Finally, current trends on the use of biocolorants in foods, and the challenges faced by the biocolorants in their effective utilization by food industry and possible solutions to these challenges were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]