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Tartary buckwheat belongs to the family Polygonaceae, which is a traditionally edible and medicinal plant. Due to its various bioactive compounds, the consumption of Tartary buckwheat is correlated to a wide range of health benefits, and increasing attention has been paid to its potential as a functional food. This review summarizes the main bioactive compounds and important bioactivities and health benefits of Tartary buckwheat, emphasizing its protective effects on metabolic diseases and relevant molecular mechanisms. Tartary buckwheat contains a wide range of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, triterpenoids, phenylpropanoid glycosides, bioactive polysaccharides, and bioactive proteins and peptides, as well as D-chiro-inositol and its derivatives. Consumption of Tartary buckwheat and Tartary buckwheat-enriched products is linked to multiple health benefits, e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihyperlipidemic, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiobesity, antihypertensive, and hepatoprotective activities. Especially, clinical studies indicate that Tartary buckwheat exhibits remarkable antidiabetic activities. Various tartary buckwheat -based foods presenting major health benefits as fat and blood glucose-lowering agents have been commercialized. Additionally, to address the safety concerns, i.e., allergic reactions, heavy metal and mycotoxin contaminations, the quality control standards for Tartary buckwheat and its products should be drafted and completed in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penthorum chinense Pursh (PCP) has acknowledged as an edible herbal medicinal plant for the prevention and treatment of alcoholic liver injury (ALI). However, only few of researches focus on the chemical material basis and potential mechanisms of PCP against ALI. Herein, we explored the therapeutic effects of PCP extract against ALI based on the integration of network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experiment validation. Based on the standard quality control of PCP herbs by UPLC fingerprint and quantitative determination, 80% ethanol extract fraction of PCP containing more polyphenols, compared to aqueous extract fraction of PCP, were chosen for further experiments. After oral administration of PCP ethanol extract, serum pharmacochemistry based on UPLC-Q-Exactive-MS analysis was implemented to evaluate the potential effective compounds. These absorbed prototypes in PCP were used to construct network pharmacology and predict the potential mechanisms of PCP extract against ALI. Then, the predicted targets and biological mechanisms of PCP extract were validated using animal experiments and molecular docking analysis. Although totally 19 polyphenol compounds were identified in PCP ethanol extract by UPLC-MS analysis, only 18 absorbed prototypes were found in the serum collected from mice at 1 h post-administration with PCP extract. These candidate active compounds were further screened into 13 compounds to construct network pharmacology and 433 targets were identified as PCP targets. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses indicated that the effects of PCP extract would involve in Ras signaling pathway. The animal experiments on chronic ALI model mice shown that the oral administration of PCP can alleviate ALI by attenuating hepatic oxidative stress, inflammation and down-regulating the target proteins in Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway. Molecular docking analysis revealed the good binding ability between the three polyphenols (i.e. quercetin, apigenin, thonningianin B) in PCP with the top contribution in network pharmacology, and these target proteins (Ras, Raf, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2). Our results clarified that PCP ethanol extract could effectively alleviate ALI by down-regulating Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway promisingly. Quercetin, apigenin, and thonningianin B may be the active compounds of PCP, attributing to the intervention benefits of PCP against ALI. It was found that flavonoids such as quercetin and apigenin had alleviating effects on alcoholic liver injury. The content of the main active substances in PCP was determined to improve the quality control of PCP. Meanwhile, PCP could promote the production of antioxidant enzymes, inhibit inflammatory factors, and suppress alcoholic liver injury by reducing the expression of proteins in the RAS-RAF pathway. [Display omitted] • The fingerprints and the content determination indexes of multiple components were established. • Screening of 19 polyphenol against alcoholic liver injury by network pharmacology. • Verified the RAS-RAF pathway to against alcoholic liver injury by network pharmacology and vivo experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an autoimmune disease afflicting an increasing number of patients and increasing demands towards the development of efficacious and safe drugs. Recently, with increasing interest in alternative medicines, natural resources have become a hotspot for drug discovery against UC. In addition to being consumed as a food and spice, ginger is also widely used as a well-recognized gastrointestinal herbal medicine. With a long history in the treatment of digestive disorders, the potential of ginger in alleviating UC has been documented in several experimental models and clinical trials. However, as a major active constituent of ginger, ginger polysaccharides (GP) and its effect on UC has yet to be reported. In this study, GP was firstly separated and characterized. In a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model, GP alleviated UC symptoms by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines levels to regulate intestinal inflammation, repairing the intestinal barrier as indicated by occludin-1 and ZO-1, as well as regulating gut microbiota. Taking these results together, we believe GP could be an innovative option in developing functional foods or therapeutic agents for UC management. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Construction of three-dimensional (3D) model of renal tumor facilitated surgical planning and imaging guidance of manual image fusion in laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for intrarenal tumors. Materials and methods: Fifteen patients with intrarenal tumors underwent LPN between January and December 2012. Computed tomography-based reconstruction of the 3D models of renal tumors was performed using Mimics 12.1 software. Surgical planning was performed through morphometry and multi-angle visual views of the tumor model. Two-step manual image fusion superimposed 3D model images onto 2D laparoscopic images. The image fusion was verified by intraoperative ultrasound. Imaging-guided laparoscopic hilar clamping and tumor excision was performed. Manual fusion time, patient demographics, surgical details, and postoperative treatment parameters were analyzed. Results: The reconstructed 3D tumor models accurately represented the patient's physiological anatomical landmarks. The surgical planning markers were marked successfully. Manual image fusion was flexible and feasible with fusion time of 6 min (5-7 min). All surgeries were completed laparoscopically. The median tumor excision time was 5.4 min (3.5-10 min), whereas the median warm ischemia time was 25.5 min (16-32 min). Twelve patients (80 %) demonstrated renal cell carcinoma on final pathology, and all surgical margins were negative. No tumor recurrence was detected after a media follow-up of 1 year (3-15 months). Conclusions: The surgical planning and two-step manual image fusion based on 3D model of renal tumor facilitated visible-imaging-guided tumor resection with negative margin in LPN for intrarenal tumor. It is promising and moves us one step closer to imaging-guided surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus pectin (CP) and two pectins with distinct molecular weights (CP-1 and CP-2) were prepared using ultrasound-assisted H 2 O 2 /ascorbic acid reaction, and their structural, anticancer, and immunostimulatory properties were investigated. Based on the methylation and nuclear magnetic resonance analyses, the structure of CP-2 was determined to be composed of an α-1,4-linked homogalacturonan backbone that exhibited high levels of O-6 methylation. In addition, both CP-1 and CP-2 induced apoptosis in various cancer cell lines, while CP exhibited minimal impact. All tested CPs activated RAW264.7 cells, promoting the production of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin (IL)-6 by upregulating the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and inducible NO synthase genes. Among them, CP-2 exhibited the highest immunostimulatory activity closely linked with its molecular weight. Furthermore, we found that CP-2 could activate RAW264.7 macrophages through NOD-like receptor (NLR) signaling pathways involving nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. In summary, the results of this investigation will enhance the comprehension of the structure-function correlation of CP, furthering its application within the functional food industry. • Citrus pectin (CP) and two molecular-weight pectins (CP-1 and CP-2) were prepared. • The structural and biological properties of the CPs were systematically examined. • The immunoregulatory mechanism of CP-2 was elucidated via proteomics analysis. • The findings contribute to revealing the structure-activity relationship of CPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the increasing studies have corroborated the biological activities and great market utilization value of polysaccharide fractions derived from Polygonati rhizome , a well-known edible and medicinal plant, Polygonati rhizome polysaccharides (PRPs) still lack sufficient attention. Herein, we make attempt to systematically summarize recent advances in the extraction, purification, structural characteristics, biological activities, and commercial products of PRPs. Based on the detailed extraction and structural characteristics, the biological activities of PRPs including immune-regulation, anti-osteoporosis, anti-Alzheimer's disease, anti-diabetes and anti-atherosclerotic, are emphatically summarized, as well as the possible related mechanisms. Most importantly, about 365 kinds of commercial functional foods and over 500 patents related to PRPs as the main raw material were analyzed to explore the status quo and bottleneck for the development and utilization of PRPs. In conclusion, this review will benefit to bridge the gap between basic knowledge and market innovations, and facilitate the in-depth utilization of PRPs. • Advancements in preparation of Polygonati rhizome polysaccharides (PRPs) are summarized. • The relationships between chemical structures and bioactivity of PRPs are discussed. • PRPs have various impressive biological activities. • The related patents and products of PRPs were summarized. • PRPs exhibit broad application prospects in pharmaceuticals and functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein is an indispensable part of life. It provides nutrition for human body and flavor for food. The role of protein depends largely on the functional properties of the protein. Therefore, the elucidation of protein structure and functional properties needs to be further explored. The effects of structural and functional properties of proteins under different ultrasonic treatment conditions were reviewed. The structural changes of protein were studied by hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry combined with fluorescence spectrometry and proteomics, and the mechanism of action was determined. The glycation site, the glycation degree, and the glycation characteristics of different sugars were determined. The protein was modified by ultrasound, and the influence of protein structure, physicochemical properties, protein glycation characteristics, and the action mechanism were analyzed by biological mass spectrometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Okra is a new type of healthy vegetable and belongs to the homology of medicine and food in traditional Chinese medicine. It is rich in nutrients and active ingredients (i.e. dietary fiber, vitamins, oils, polysaccharides, polyphenols), which makes it to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and other functions. This paper reviews various ingredients in okra, their health benefits and their mechanism of action; also pays attention to the influence of different processing methods on the quality of okra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arabinoxylan (AX) has many beneficial health effects that are closely related to its structural characteristics. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of molecular weight (Mw) and degree of substitution (DS) on the antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities of triticale bran AX and its hydrolysates in vitro. At low and similar Mw, the antioxidant activity of AX was inversely proportional to its DS. When DS was close, the antioxidant activity of AX was inversely proportional to its Mw at high DS, but the opposite result was found at low DS. As for the hypoglycemic performance, when DS was similar, the hypoglycemic activity of AX was proportional to its Mw. At low and similar Mw, the α-glucosidase inhibitory ability and glucose adsorption ability of AX was positively correlated with DS, whereas the α-amylase inhibitory ability and glucose delayed absorption ability showed the opposite results. Mw and DS had significant effects on the antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities of AX, and these two factors often need to be combined to explain the varied effects under different conditions. • Bioactivities of AX were closely correlated to their Mw and DS. • At low and similar Mw, the antioxidant activity of AX was inversely proportional to its DS. • At similar DS, the antioxidant activity of AX was inversely proportional to its Mw at high DS, but opposite at low DS. • At similar DS, the hypoglycemic activity of AX was directly proportional to its Mw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active edible films based on okara soluble dietary fiber (SDF), pectin, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC Na) and thyme essential oil (TEO) were successfully prepared. We aimed to exploit biodegradable edible films and realize the full utilization of waste resources. The effects of different amounts of pectin on the properties and structural characterization of the composite film with or without TEO were studied using a solution casting evaporation method. In general, the addition of TEO can improve the properties of the composite membrane. Pectin was homogeneously distributed within the films and exhibited good interaction with the polymer matrix. The addition of pectin led to significantly higher mechanical and optical properties of the composite film, compared with SDF/CMC-Na composite film. The tensile strength reached 21.419 ± 2.22 MPa, and the minimum transparency reduced to 88.9% ± 0.42%, with increasing pectin. Notably, the water resistance and oil resistance were enhanced. The composite films also possessed satisfactory antioxidant activity, with a DPPH-free radical scavenging rate of 46.33% ± 0.72%, while antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus bacteria was not obvious. Antioxidant and antibacterial SDF/pectin/CMC-Na composite films with enhanced mechanical, optical and barrier properties are excellent candidates for active edible packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The soybean soluble polysaccharide was prepared by mixed fermentation of lactic acid bacteria and Neurospora crassa and microwave treatment. The functional properties and structure characteristics of soybean soluble polysaccharide before and after modification were compared. Results revealed that after fermentation treatment, the content of soybean soluble polysaccharide increased to 7.09%, which was 3.16 times that of raw materials, and the microwave treatment was further increased to 7.69%. The glucose adsorption capacity, glucose dialysis retardation index and the α-amylase activity inhibition ration of soybean soluble polysaccharides increased significantly, promotes intestinal flora growth in vitro after fermentation of mixed bacteria and microwave treatment. At the same time, the analysis of monosaccharide composition and structural characteristics showed that the monosaccharide components of soybean soluble polysaccharide were redistributed after modification treatment, Scanning electron microscopy showed that modified soybean soluble polysaccharide has a larger surface area; Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction proved that the modification has slight changes in the functional groups and crystal structure of soybean soluble polysaccharide. These results suggested that okara may be a potentially inexpensive source of natural soybean soluble polysaccharide and a potential functional food ingredient. • The functional properties and structural characteristics of U-SSPS, F-SSPS and M-SSPS were compared. • SSPS has better glucose adsorption capacity after modification treatment. • Mixed fermentation and microwave treatment redistribute the monosaccharide content of SSPS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, chitosan film has been widely used to extend the shelf life of food. In this study, high, medium and low molecular weight of chitosan were used as raw materials to prepare a series of films (C1–C27) by controlling the content of chitosan and glycerol, and their mechanical properties, water vapor permeability (WVP), oxygen transmittance (OP), morphology and antibacterial properties were characterized as well. The results indicated that all films had film-forming properties. Among them, the film C16 with high molecular weight, high chitosan content and 50% glycerol/chitosan (w/w) exhibited the excellent transparency (91.2%), elongation at break (28.948%), tensile strength (77.963 MPa), WVP (1.46 × 10−12gcm/cm2·sPa), smooth morphology, denser structure and antibacterial property (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli). Meanwhile, the preservation properties of chitosan films were evaluated by strawberry preservation. Almost all the studied films had better preservation effect than the commercially available PE films, especially of which the film C16 was the best compared with others. It maintained the physical and chemical parameters (weight loss ratio, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, total ascorbic acid and color change) of strawberry most obviously. Hence, chitosan films had great potential for the industrial application of fruit preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, fish gelatin and chitosan were used as the film-forming substrate, and different concentrations of TiO 2 -Ag were added to prepare composite films. The physicochemical characteristics and microstructure of the films were studied. The results showed that the addition of TiO 2 -Ag significantly increased the water solubility of the film. When the TiO 2 -Ag concentration was increased to 0.5%, the film had the best antibacterial ability and the lowest light transmittance (54.6%), but the tensile strength of the film was the lowest, decreased from 17.39 MPa to 9.014 MPa. The water vapor permeability of film first decreased and then increased, and the minimum value was 2.63 × 10−12 g·cm/cm2·s·Pa when the concentration of TiO 2 -Ag was 0.4%. XRD, XPS, and ATR-FTIR results showed that the presence of TiO 2 -Ag crystals in the film could enhance the interaction between the components, and FE-SEM results showed that the film had a very smooth and uniform surface. In general, FG/Ch/TiO 2 -Ag composite film is expected to be used in the food packaging industry. Unlabelled Image • The presence of TiO 2 -Ag in the film can enhance the interaction between the components. • High concentration of TiO 2 -Ag can increase the antibacterial ability and UV barrier capability of the film. • 0.4% TiO 2 -Ag is more suitable for improving the properties of FG-Ch thin films. • FG/Ch/TiO 2 -Ag composite film is expected to be used in the food packaging industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soil and water pollution due to nitrate are becoming increasingly serious worldwide. The government also put forward relevant governance policies, and a large number of scholars studied chemical physics and other methods to remove nitrate in water, but the cost was substantial. Studies have found that planting systems including grasses have the potential to remove nitrates. However, there are few studies on nitrate linked pathway and nitrate assimilation during its early growth. Results: We have evaluated three different feed-plant species with three levels of overnight seed nitrate treatments along with a control. The activity of different enzymes from 2 weeks old shoots was measured to get a comprehension of proline-associated pentose phosphate pathway coupled with nitrate assimilation and phenolic-linked antioxidant response system in these species under nitrate treatments. All three feed-plant species showed high nitrate tolerance during germination and early growth stages. It is perceived that the accumulation of total soluble phenolics and total antioxidant activity was high in all three feed-plant species under high nitrate treatments. In terms of high G6PDH activity along with low SDH activity in alfalfa, there may be a shift of carbon flux in this species under high nitrate treatments. Higher activity of these enzymes along with higher SOD and GPX activity was observed in alfalfa. The efficient mechanism of nitrate stress tolerance of alfalfa also correlated with higher photochemical efficiency. Perennial ryegrass also showed excellent potential under high nitrate treatments by adopting an efficient mechanism to counter nitrate-induced oxidative stress. Conclusions: Under the condition of nitrate treatment, the germination rates of the three feed-plant species are still ideal, and they have good enzyme activity and have the potential to remove nitrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-speed shearing (HSS) technology was used to mill the okara fibers in raw whole soybean flour (rWSF) suspension for fabrication of whole soybean curd (WSC). By measuring the medium diameter and analyzing the protein subunit composition of rWSF and heated whole soybean flour (hWSF), we found that HSS effectively micronized the insoluble fraction in suspension (especially the component cell layers of seed coat) but destroyed the structure of the native protein and caused the disappearance of specific protein band 7 in sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Further, we made WSC using HSS-treated hWSF suspension and analyzed its characteristics. The relative contents of α-helix, β-sheet, and β-turns all decreased after HSS, but the surface hydrophobicity showed an opposite trend. Additionally, the maximum emission wavelength blue- shifted after HSS. These results indicated that the secondary and tertiary structures of WSC were changed by HSS. Moreover, microstructural analysis based on a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and texture analyzer suggested that HSS led to the formation of a loose and less connected gel network and weakened the gel strength consequently. In summary, to separate and micronize okara individually and add them back to soymilk for WSC making was a considerable method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3D food printing has attracted considerable attention as promising technique to manufacture foods customization in shape, color, texture and even nutrition. In this study, the effect of material formulation (water content and rice types including waxy rice, japonica rice, and indica rice) on the quality of 3D-printed rice-based foods was investigated. Results showed that rheological properties of rice doughs were obviously influenced by its formulation and qualitatively but not quantitatively correlated with its printability ever further. The 3D-printed waxy rice product with flour-to-water ratio of 100:90 (3DWRD-3) exhibited best shape, highest precision, and most compact microstructure, followed by indica rice product (3DIRD-2) and japonica rice product (3DJRD-4) with flour-to-water ratio of 100:85 and 100:95, respectively. To further study the compatibility of 3D printing with conventional food processing technologies, 3D-printed products were steamed. The study revealed that 3DWRD-3 has swollen during steaming due to the highest amylopectin content of waxy rice and further showed the worst shape stability and highest in vitro starch digestibility. But opposite phenomenon arose in steamed 3DIRD-2 and steamed 3DJRD-4, indicating that indica and japonica rice could be promising materials for 3D printing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xyloglucan (XyG) is a ubiquitous polysaccharide that possesses hypoglycemic effects, antihyperlipidemia effects, gut barrier protective properties, and positive effects on coronary heart disease. As a nonstarch polysaccharide, XyG cannot be processed directly by enzymes encoded on the human genome. After being ingested, XyG transits the large intestine where it becomes food for the intestinal microbial community. The species within the intestinal microbiota use various strategies to recognize and degrade XyG. However, most current studies focus on the industrial application of XyG. We must examine the beneficial effects of XyG on human health and the roles that the gut microbiota play in XyG degradation. The current review summarizes the relationship between XyG and intestinal microbiota, including the degradation process of XyG by gut Bacteroidetes and the influence of XyG on the intestinal microbiota. In addition, the possible effects of XyG or its microbial degradation products on human health are presented. XyG breakdown in the large intestine is mediated by several proteins encoded on XyG utilization loci. Surface glycan-binding proteins and glycan-degrading enzymes encoded on XyG utilization loci are the main components that utilize XyGs in the large intestine. Secondary metabolites and fermentation end products that are generated in XyG degradation by gut microbiota can improve human health. The beneficial effects of XyG on human health may be realized through its microbial degradation. • XyGUL is pivotal for intestinal microbiota to degrade XyG. • XyG may influence the abundance and composition of gut microorganism. • The microbial degradation of XyG provides many health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modification of functional properties by glycosylating with polysaccharides is an effective solution to improve the internal disadvantages of native proteins. Generally, protein glycosylation belongs to the first stage of the Maillard reaction in essence. Dry-heating, wet-heating, and their combination are the major methods for the preparation of protein-polysaccharide conjugates (PPC). Spectrophotometry, spectroscopy, electrophoresis, calorimetry, chromatography, and mass spectrometry are confirmed to be the most effective methods for the identification of PPC. After glycosylation, functionalities of the native protein, including solubility, rheological properties, emulsifying properties, foaming properties, gel property, film-forming properties, thermal stability, antioxidant activity, allergenicity, and antibacterial properties, are improved. The PPC is extensively used as an encapsulation or a delivering material in order to improve the bioaccessibility of bioactive compounds in food system. Some new applications in food processing could be explored using PPC as an ingredient based on the improved functional properties, such as 3-dimensional printing food, gelled food, and colloid food. Furthermore, the model of protein glycosylation and the application of PPC in food processing could be extended to other protein modification to broaden the exploitation of native protein resource for the processing of novel foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the effect of arabinoxylan on colonic mucosal barrier and metabolomic profiles in high‐fat diet‐induced rats. A total of 20 six‐week‐old male rats were arranged randomly to two groups (n = 10/group), including a high‐fat diet (HFD) group and a high‐fat supplemented with arabinoxylan diet (AXD) group. Results showed that feeding AXD reduced serum lipopolysaccharide in rats after 5 weeks. In colonic digesta, Escherichia coli population was reduced, while Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Bacteroidetes populations were increased in AXD group. Metabolomics assay found that the different abundances of 84 metabolites were observed, involving lipid, carbohydrate, and nitrogenous metabolism in colonic digesta. In colonic mucosa, AXD up‐regulated gene level of tight‐junction‐related proteins. Meanwhile, lower TNF‐α and IL‐1β levels were related to TLR4/NF‐κB/MyD88 pathway in AXD group. In conclusion, arabinoxylan could change colonic microbial metabolism and improve the colonic mucosal barrier via modulating intestinal microflora and tight junction proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a highly hydrated gel-type food, soybean curd is perishable and the development of spoilage bacteria has been described. Whole soybean curd (WSC), an innovative soy product retains the most nutrients in raw ingredients and exhibits more nutritive value compared with conventional soybean curd (CSC). However, the risk assessment of WSC is not well evaluated up to now. In this study, the same species of spoilage microorganism were separated from WSC and CSC. Two main spoilage strains were separated and identified as B. subtilis and B. cereus. The risk ranking scores of WSC was higher than that of CSC but still within medium risk range. In summary, we reported the presence of B. subtilis and B. cereus in WSC for the first time. Further, application of the risk ranger tool confirmed that the risk profile of WSC was medium and acceptable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The physicochemical and digestive properties of acetylated corn starch with different degrees of substitution were studied, which were prepared by microwave pretreatment and acetate esterification. Native corn starch-wheat noodles, acetylated corn starch-wheat flour noodles and native wheat noodles were prepared and their properties were compared. The results showed that the transparency, condensation volume ratio, hydrophilicity and lipophilicity of modified corn starch increased with increasing of substitution degree, which were 4.0% to 12.1%, 21.11% to 31.78%, 0.73 g/g to 0.91 g/g and 0.66 g/g to 0.88 g/g, respectively and the rate of water evolution decreased from 44.9% to 33.3%. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that acetyl group was successfully introduced. Scanning electron microscopy showed that microwave pretreatment and group introduction made the surface of starch granules locally porous and rough. Differential scanning calorimetry showed lower onset temperature, peak temperature, conclusion temperature and enthalpy than native corn starch, which proved that acetylated corn starch reduced the content of rapidly digestion starch and increased the content of slow digestible starch and resistant starch. At the same time, the results showed that the color, texture and tensile properties of noodles with acetylated corn starch were improved. It showed that acetylated corn starch prepared by microwave pretreatment and acetate esterification had certain application prospects. Highlights • Starch was prepared by microwave pretreatment and esterification with acetate. • Physicochemical and digestive properties of acetylated starch were studied. • Three kinds of noodles were prepared by adding NCS-WN, ACS-WN and NWN. • The color, texture and tensile properties of three kinds of noodles were studied and compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Compared with the traditional method, the microwave assisted method can greatly shorten the reaction time of hydroxypropyl starch and improve product quality. The microwave assisted conditions and physicochemical properties of natural corn starch were studied. Response surface methodology was used to optimize the reaction conditions of three-level-three-factorial center composite design. The optimum parameters were as follows: the additive amount of propylene oxide was 8%, the radiation time was 6.08 min, and the microwave power was 303.43 W. The optimal degree of substitution (DS) of hydroxypropyl starch was determined by the optimal conditions predicted by RSM, which was 0.0729 mg/g. The analysis of physicochemical properties showed that with the increase of the DS of starch derivatives, the transparency (4% to 8.81%), the volume ratio of the condensing volume (21.11% to 33.11%), the hydrophilic (0.73 g/g to 2.46 g/g), and the hydrophobicity (0.67 g/g to 1.01 g/g), and the water evolution rate (46.91% to 36.16%) decreased. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that the enhancement of peak intensity at 1149 cm−1 indicated the successful introduction of hydroxypropyl group. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the surface morphology of corn starch was affected to some extent. The modification did not change the crystalline type of starch, which was still A type. Highlights • Hydroxypropyl starch with different DS was prepared by microwave-assisted preparation. • The optimum preparation conditions of hydroxypropyl starch were determined by single factor method and RSM method. • The properties of hydroxypropyl starch with different DS were studied. • The DS of hydroxypropyl starch was compared and analyzed by FTIR, SEM and XRD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, due to high surface to volume ratio; large availability, rapid kinetics of adsorption and desorption and low cost, the exploitation of microbial biosorption of heavy metals is regarded as a reliable alternative compared to the conventional bioremediation approaches. In parallel with the increasing attractiveness of biosorption research, its pace of advance is also boosted. The barrier that prevent biosorption as an effective method from being applied into wastewater purification is listed, (1) There is not enough data on multi-component biosorption, (2) It remains to be seen that physical-chemical characteristics of different biomasses. (3) Studies on surface modification of strains for enhancement of heavy metals removal efficiency is lack. And extensive literatures involving the mechanism and model of biosorption for particular metal and microbial strains are not available. The present literatures lack systematization, the theory on interaction between lactic acid bacteria and Pb is far from complete. Therefore, the review tries to give a comprehensive explanation about the mechanism of Pb removal from Lactic acid bacteria and provide a brief overview of distinction between biosorption and bioaccumulation, biosorption technology, highlight the underlying features of biosorption and the various affecting factors such as pH, dose required, initial concentration, temperature, and treatment performance as a reference. Biosorption mechanisms can be briefly generalized into several pathways, which are ion exchange, complexation, precipitation, reduction and chelation. Many views holds that complexation is the major absorption mechanisms of Pb. Biosorption mechanisms can be roughly classified as biosorption and bioaccumulation, which have great differences between each other. Biosorption is metabolism-independent but fast, while bioaccumulation is metabolism-dependent but slow. The slight advantages of the bioaccumulation are the metabolite (lactic acid), lactobacillus surface-layers, enzymes and so on. Many factors can greatly affect adsorption process, different factors have different influence and the effects of pretreatment, pH and temperature are relatively greater. Desorption is not a fully reversible process of biosorption, but could not only achieve the goal of the recycle of microorganism, but also contribute to release of trace metal elements. Also the technologies for observation of biosorbents characterics and effect on the metal binding process are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The starch/polyvinyl alcohol/graphene oxide composite film was prepared by casting method by adding GO to starch/PVA matrix. The effects of GO with different concentrations on the performance of the composite film were studied. With the increase of GO concentration, the thickness increased, the tensile strength increased first and then decreased. When the concentration of GO reached 2 mg/ml, the tensile strength was 25.28 MPa reaching the maximum. The increase of GO concentration caused the enhancement of film's moisture resistance. Through FTIR, SEM and TGA analysis, it was found that the addition of GO did not change the composition of the film, but it could change the phenomenon of matrix agglomeration and improve the thermal stability of the film. The preparation of composite films by adding GO could improve the properties, expand the application of nanomaterials in the food packaging field, and expand the research of biodegradable composite films. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the non-aldehyde volatile profile resulting from deep-fat frying, volatile compounds formed during the processes of heating soybean oil (SO), frying wheat dough (WD), and frying chicken breast meat (CBM) were comparatively studied. By using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and internal standard method, alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, ketones, nitrogen-containing volatiles (NCVs), and other volatiles were qualitatively and relatively quantitatively detected. NCVs were detected only in CBM-fried oil samples. Some volatiles (e.g. 2-pentylfuran and 2-pentylpyridine) were observed to increase in concentration, whereas others (e.g. 4-methyl-1,4-heptadiene and 7-methyl-3,4-octadiene) were observed to first increase and then decrease in concentration as the heating or frying time increased. Reduced quantity and concentrations of volatiles were observed in the food-fried oil samples which might be related to the intensified reactions induced by food components. The detection of some harmful volatiles in considerable concentrations indicated further attention might be paid to the safety of deep-fat frying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphenol-gelatin binary complex and polyphenol-gelatin-pectin ternary complex were synthesized. The differences in antioxidant activity between the binary complex and ternary complex were evaluated by using ABTS, DPPH, and reducing power assays. The differences in structural characterization between the binary complex and ternary complex were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nuclear magnetic resonance (1H and 13C NMR), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The reducing power assays of the ternary complex was greater than that of the binary complex. The maximum of ABTS•+ scavenging activity of the binary complex and the ternary complex was 98.1% and 99.3%, respectively, and the maximum DPPH• scavenging activity was 84.7% and 87.6%, respectively. The results of structural characterization showed that they were very similar in structure. Both complexes are mainly composed of hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions, but the ternary complex is more tightly bound. In addition, the surface is smoother, and the gap is smaller. ► Ternary and binary complexes have excellent antioxidant properties. ► The addition of pectin increased the amount of hydroxyl groups, which improved antioxidant capacity. ► Due to the polyhydroxy structure, apple polyphenols can bind to gelatin and pectin tightly. ► Polyphenols can be used as natural and harmless cross-linking agents for macromolecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radio frequency (RF) is an efficient uniformity heating method that can be used for pasteurization. Information on how RF heating influences the physicochemical properties of agricultural product is limited. In this study, the effect of RF heating treatment combined with hot-air (HA) drying (50 °C, 55 °C and 60 °C) on the physicochemical properties of Sichuan pepper was assessed. Sichuan pepper was subjected to RF treatment combined with HA drying, and the performance was compared with HA drying alone (50 °C, 55 °C and 60 °C) in terms of drying kinetics, volatile components, non-volatile components (OH-α-sanshool, polyphenols and flavonoids) and antioxidant activity (ABTS and ferric reducing antioxidant power). RF heating had no negative effects on OH-α-sanshool for the 50 RF-HA group but it could significantly reduce the loss of polyphenols (12.27% at 55 °C, RF-HA group) and flavonoids (15.08% at 60 °C, RF-HA group). Compared with fresh Sichuan pepper, the 50 RF-HA group retained a similar aroma profile. RF heating treatment followed by HA drying is a prospective technique for obtaining high-quality dried Sichuan pepper. • Radio frequency (RF) treatment did not change the drying kinetics or shorten total drying time. • The levels of d -limonene and linalool were not affected by RF treatment. • The OH-α-sanshool content reduced due to disruption of oil droplets and drying temperature. • RF treatment reduced the loss of polyphenols content and flavonoids content in the hot-air drying process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation and characterization of conjugates of soybean protein isolate (SPI) and dextran with varying molecular weights (4, 10, and 70 kDa) and their effects on quality of glucono-δ-lactone (GDL)-induced tofu were investigated. The extent of glycosylation was negatively related to the molecular weight of dextran. Thus, the SPI-dextran4 conjugate exhibited a darker color and a biggest decrease in whiteness from 70.49 to 45.51. SPI-dextran70 conjugate exhibited an increased surface hydrophobicity and free sulfhydryl content. Volume-average diameter of SPI-dextran70 conjugate-added soymilk and gel strength of the corresponding tofu ranged from 10.34 to 11.24 μm and 0.068 to 0.083 N, respectively, which were lesser than those of the control (11.12 μm and 0.133 N). However, SPI-dextran10 conjugate incubated for 6 days and SPI-dextran4 conjugate incubated for 2 days increased the gel strength of tofu to 0.146 and 0.143 N, respectively. Conjugates-added tofu exhibited an increased water holding capacity and a discontinuous and loose microstructure, but a lowered whiteness and a color change to yellow. Results demonstrated that the selection of dextran with an appropriate molecular weight and controlling the glycosylation degree were capable of improving the quality of SPI-dextran conjugate-added GDL-induced tofu. • Soybean protein isolate (SPI)-dextran (4, 10, 70 kDa) conjugates were prepared. • Molecular weight of dextran affected the physicochemical properties of conjugates. • SPI-dextran70 conjugates reduced particle size of soymilk and gel strength of tofu. • Impact of SPI-dextran4/10 conjugates on gel strength of tofu depended on reaction time. • The addition of conjugates enhanced the water holding capacity of tofu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycinin-carbohydrate conjugate prepared with glucose, fructose, or dextran using a dry-heating method was applied to improve the processing quality and textural properties of whole soybean curd (WSC). The optimal parameters for preparing glycinin-carbohydrate conjugates were obtained using single factor experiment and response surface optimization. Compared to native glycinin, all glycinin-carbohydrate conjugates prepared under the optimized parameters exhibited improved solubility and emulsifying properties, especially the glycinin-dextran conjugate. Yield, hardness, and gel strength of WSC were significantly elevated when glycinin-carbohydrate conjugates were applied as a part of raw material. For instance, when 15% glycinin-dextran conjugate was added, the yield, hardness, and gel strength of WSC were increased by 32.70%, 52.46%, and 32.72% compared to those of the WSC made only from soybean flour, respectively. Meanwhile, glycinin-carbohydrate conjugates modified the microstructure of WSC to be denser and more homogeneous, which was more significant in the glycinin-dextran conjugate-added WSC. In conclusion, glycinin-carbohydrate conjugates exhibited improved functionalities which were beneficial to facilitating the formation of homogenous microstructure and thus, enhancing the processing quality of WSC. Therefore, the addition of glycinin-carbohydrate conjugates could be considered a feasible alternative to elevate the processing quality and textural properties of whole soybean product. Image 1 • Glycosylation of glycinin with glucose, fructose, and dextran are optimized. • Glycinin-carbohydrate conjugates exhibit improved solubility and emulsifying properties. • Processing quality of whole soybean curd (WSC) is enhanced after adding conjugates. • Textural properties and micromorphology of the conjugate-added WSC are also improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The increase in chitosan and nano-silicon aerogel significantly improves the properties of the composite film. • The composite film has a uniform, non-porous, continuous dense surface with excellent surface properties. • The composite film has strong antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. The chitosan/okra powder/nano-silicon aerogel composite films were prepared by casting method and their physicochemical properties and structural characterization were studied. The results showed that the composite film had good mechanical properties, barrier properties and optical properties. The composite film has strong flexibility. The surface glossiness of C/D/S1.5:1:0.1 film was 14.4Gu. As for the antibacterial activity, all the composite films had strong antibacterial activity against Gram-negative (E. coli) and Gram-positive (S. aureus), and the inhibition zone of C/D/S1.5:1:0.10 against E. coli reached 551.96 mm2, the inhibition zone for S. aureus was 350.29 mm2. The composite film had uniform, non-porous, continuous and dense surface characteristics. The structural characterization confirmed that there was good compatibility between chitosan, okara powder and nano-silicon aerogel. In summary, the composite films had excellent performance and structure, which promoted the research of functional packaging films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Stabilization of oils during frying by ethanol extract of C. Violaceum (EEC) is studied. • 16 components are identified in the EEC using UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS. • EEC-added frying oils exhibit a lesser reduction in contents of C18:2 and C18:3. • The formation of short-chain fatty acids is inhibited after adding EEC during frying. • EEC is proven to inhibit the deterioration of polyunsaturated oils during frying. Influence of ethanol extract of Chuanminshen Violaceum (EEC) on the changes in physicochemical characteristics of soybean, rapeseed, and palm oils during frying was investigated. Composition analysis revealed that a total of 16 compounds with possible antioxidant activity were contained in the obtained EEC, such as bergaptol, curcumenol, viscutin, homobutein, nissolicarpin, and 4-hydroxyisopimpinellin. Similar to tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), EEC inhibited the increases in acid value, carbonyl value, and total polar compound content of frying oil during frying. The decrease in content of polyunsaturated fatty acids and the increase in content of saturated fatty acids were also significantly inhibited in TBHQ-added or EEC-added oils. More than 45 % of the reduction in concentration of octanoic acid was obtained in EEC-added oils, which was comparable to those observed in TBHQ-added oils. Thermal oxidative degradation of polyunsaturated fatty acids was proven to be retarded by adding EEC and TBHQ to moderate the deterioration of frying oil. Thus, the potential use of EEC as a natural antioxidant was demonstrated to extend the usage life of vegetable oils with a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids during frying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zishen Yutai Pills (ZYP), a famous traditional Chinese patent medicine, has been widely applied to avoid recurrent miscarriage and treat threatened abortion. Polysaccharides of ZYP (ZYPPs) play an essential role in the theraprutic effects of ZYP. However, the complex compositions of ZYP and the complicated structure of ZYPPs have posed great challenges and barriers to the quality evaluation of ZYP. To identify and characterize the ZYPPs for better quality control of ZYP, a reliable and valid quality control system was established in this study. A multi-fingerprint profile strategy based on HPSEC-MALL-RID, FT-IR, and HPLC (complete acid digested fingerprint, partial acid digested fingerprint and enzymatically digested fingerprint) was established to identify and discriminate the chemical structure of ZYPPs. Besides, the purpose of revealing the relationships between structure and biological activity of ZYPPs, their chemical characteristics, in vitro antioxidant and anti-glycation activities were investigated and discussed. The similarity evaluation of ZYPPs indicated ZYPPs from different batches showed a high similarity based on the correlation coefficient values of multi-fingerprints. Furthermore, ZYPPs exhibited remarkable antioxidant and antiglycation properties, which might be attributed to their molecular weights and the content of uronic acids. These results indicated that the multiple fingerprint technique was reliable and effective for the improvement of quality control of ZYPPs, suggesting the multiple fingerprint technique could also be potentially applied as a valid and feasible strategy to control the quality of polysaccharide-enriched herbal medicines. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Konjac glucomannan and pullulan showed good compatibility in the film matrix. • The properties of blend films were enhanced due to intermolecular interaction. • The KGM/pullulan films preserved strawberries well on different temperatures. • The blend films offered a potential alternative to synthetic materials. The present study aims to develop the new composite films by blending Konjac glucomannan (KGM) and pullulan with different ratios and concentrations. The structural, physical, barrier properties and morphology of the films were investigated and the practical use on strawberry preservation at 4 ± 1 °C, 85 %±5% relative humidity (RH) and 25 ± 1 °C, 55 %±5% RH was evaluated. Fourier transform infrared and scanning electron microscopy indicated the well-dispersion of film matrix was due to the good compatibility of the components. The mechanical and barrier properties of blend films were markedly enhanced although the light transmittance of which were decreased slightly. It was a further proof that 1% (w/v) KGM/pullulan (with the mass ratio of 2:1) blend film could decrease the weight loss significantly and maintain the titratable acidity, soluble solids and skin color on the strawberry preservation, thus improving the qualities of strawberries during storage time and offering a potential alternative to synthetic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of different cooking methods (steaming, boiling, frying and microwaving) on nutrients and their bioaccessibility by an in vitro simulated digestion model. The result demonstrated that the degree of protein hydrolysis (42.84%) after digestion under microwaving was the highest. The fatty acid composition can influence the lipid digestion fate, and the stearic acid content of all samples was significantly increased, except for the methods of frying (only from 4.72 to 8.37 g/100 g). The highest bioaccessibility was discovered in Cu (83.35%, frying), and the lowest was in Fe (3.96%, frying), but Pb was not digested. Frying method caused severe losses of protein bioaccessibility but it has the highest amount of reducing sugar release and antioxidant activity. The scientific and in-depth nature of the above study provides a reference for the daily consumption of C. cornucopioides. Image 1 • The swallow and digestible particle size of C.cornucopioides is 4 mm. • The cooking methods had a great effect on nutrients value and bioaccessibility. • Cooking and digestion impact on the antioxidant capacity of C.cornucopioides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigated the 3D printing feasibility of rice (waxy rice, japonica rice, indica rice) paste and the effect of sodium alginate (SA) added at concentrations (0, 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00%, w/w, dry rice flour basis) on the physicochemical and structural characteristics of rice paste. Results showed that rice paste incorporated with SA exhibited shear-thinning behavior so that it can be used as ideal material for 3D printing. The viscosity, degree of bound water and mechanical strength of rice paste increased with increasing addition of SA. When SA concentration was 0.50%, the 3D printed japonica rice product (3DJP3) provided the best printability and highest precision, followed by waxy rice product (3DWP3) and indica rice product (3DIP3). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that more convolutions were induced in the 3D printed rice products upon the addition of SA, which increased the products stability. It was a further proof that 3DJP3 and 3DIP3 still maintained good structure and precision after steaming. However, 3DWP3 has swollen after steaming due to the highest amylopectin content of waxy rice and showed the worst shape fidelity. Overall, SA could be functioned as proper additives for 3D rice products, and the food matrix of proper types of rice and SA could be promising materials for 3D printing. Image 1 • Sodium alginate (SA) functioned as structural modifier in 3D printing of rice foods. • Waxy, japonica and indica rice paste all achieved best printability at 0.50% SA. • 3D waxy rice products after steaming have swollen due to high amylopectin content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of mixed fermentation by lactic acid bacteria and Neurospora crassa, and microwave treatment on the composition, structure, and functional properties of okara dietary fiber (DF) were studied. The results of SEM and EDX showed that the honeycomb structure was more obvious and the content of elemental components was changed after fermentation and microwave treatment. The result of TGA-DSC showed that the thermal stability of the sample improved following microwave treatment. The FT-IR results showed that fermentation and microwave treatment effect the functional groups of cellulose and hemicellulose in a manner consistent with the composition of the samples, and the crystal structures of the samples were slightly damaged after modification. There was no obvious change in the adsorption effect of cholesterol and sodium cholate following mixed fermentation and microwave treatment. However, the inhibition ratio of fermented DF on α-amylase activity increased from 9.55% to 15.04%, while that of microwave-treated DF changed from 9.55% to 20.92%. The glucose dialysis retardation of fermented DF doubled at 30 min. Overall, both methods improve the availability of DF in okara. Modified DF from okara can be used as a functional ingredient in diverse food products. • The SDF was prepared by the mixed fermentation and microwave treatment. • The composition and structural characteristics of UFDF, FDF and MDF were compared. • The functional properties of UFDF, FDF and MDF were compared. • The modification mechanisms of mixed fermentation and microwave treatment were discussed preliminarily. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of soybean soluble polysaccharide (SSPS) on the formation of glucono-δ-lactone (GDL)-induced soybean protein isolate (SPI) gel was investigated. Electrophoretic analysis showed the SSPS did not change the electrophoretic behavior of SPI during the formation of SPI gel. However, infrared analysis indicated the β-sheet content increased, and the contents of random coil and α-helix decreased in both cooked SPI and SPI gel. The SSPS and SPI might conjugate via the Maillard reaction according to the results of grafting degree, color change, and infrared analyses. The main interactions during the formation of SPI gel changed from non-covalent to electrostatic interaction after adding SSPS. Sulfhydryl group content also increased in both cooked SPI and SPI gel. The water-holding capacity and gel strength of SPI gel decreased as the SSPS concentration increased. Larger aggregate holes were observed in the microstructure of SPI gel at higher SSPS concentration. Thus, SSPS could covalently conjugate with SPI and influence the formation of hydrogen bonds, disulfide bonds, and electrostatic interaction among SPI molecules to eventually form a loose gel network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the feasibility of high-speed shearing (HSS) on the modification of okara fibers. Scanning electron microscope analysis suggested that HSS disintegrated and degraded the component cell layers at the cellular level. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the reflection intensity of crystalline plane (I 002) and the amorphous contribution (I AM) declined after HSS, confirming that the degradation of okara fibers was accompanied with the disintegration of crystalline as well as amorphous area. Moreover, the reflection intensity of cellulose's triclinic structure went up after HSS, which might be attributed to the breakdown of β-1, 4-glycoside bond. The swelling capacity and water holding capacity extensively declined (p < 0.05) from 5.5 mL/g and 8.5 g/g to 2.2 mL/g and 4.9 g/g after shearing, which was caused by the degradation of porous structure and the decrease of pore volume. HSS empowered okara fiber better solubility as well, and it might be achieved by breaking the cellulose-cellulose hydrogen bonds and redistributing the fiber composition from the insoluble to the soluble fraction. Consequently, HSS provided a cost-efficient way to disintegrate substrates and modify hydration properties of okara fiber, which possessed considerable application prospects in soy industry. • High-speed shearing disintegrated component cell layers at the cellular level. • Better solubility of okara fibers was achieved by high-speed shearing. • High-speed shearing disintegrated the crystalline and amorphous domain of okara fibers. • High-speed shearing reduced the dimension of crystalline domain of okara fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mucilage from Brasenia schreberi (BS) exhibits various biological activities, including antialgal, antibacterial, soluble-fiber properties, and excellent lubricating behavior. Thus, the extraction and wide use of mucilage in the food industry are crucial. In this study, the high-speed shear-assisted extraction of mucilage from BS was optimized by using response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal extraction conditions were as follows: Extraction temperature of 82 °C, extraction time of 113 min, liquid–solid ratio of 47 mL/g, and shear speed of 10,000 rpm. Under these conditions, the actual yield of BS mucilage was 71.67%, which highly matched the yield (73.44%) predicted by the regression model. Then, the BS mucilage extract was powdered to prepare the capsule, and the excipients of the capsule were screened using a single-factor test to improve the disintegration property and flowability. The final capsule formulation, which consisted of: 39% BS mucilage powder (60 meshes); 50% microcrystalline cellulose (60 meshes) as the filler; both 10% sodium starch glycolate and PVPP XL-10 (3:1, 60 meshes) as the disintegrant; both 1% colloidal silicon dioxide and sodium stearyl fumarate (1:1, 100 meshes) as the glidant by weight; were used for preparing the weights of a 320 mg/grain of capsule with 154.7 ± 0.95 mg/g polysaccharide content. Overall, the optimized extraction process had a high extraction rate for BS mucilage and the capsule formulation was designed reasonably. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal lead, which enters the human body through food intake, endangers human health. Microbe has the ability of adsorbing heavy metal, among which lactic acid bacteria are promising microbes to adsorb and remove Pb2+. The purpose of this study was to screen lactic acid bacteria from Ya'an pickle water to effectively remove Pb2+. The 7 strains having strong ability to effectively remove Pb2+ were detected. These strains were identified by microscopic examination and 16S rDNA sequencing, 4 strains of Lactobacillus plantarum and 3 strains of Lactobacillus brevis were obtained. Then the bacteria had a blind adsorption effect on Pb2+. After microwave digestion, the Pb2+ concentration was measured by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The highest removal reached 82.25%. The adsorption mechanism of lactic acid bacteria was mainly divided into biosorption and bioaccumulation. The 7 strains of lactic acid bacteria could provide potential for detoxification of contaminated foods and reduction of the Pb2+ accumulation in the human diet and animal feed. At the same time, this study was helpful to further understand the mechanism of Pb2+ being adsorbed by lactic acid bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In acidic conditions, mesoporous molecular sieves SBA-15 and SBA-15-SH were synthesized. Structural characterization was carried out by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), 13C CP MAS-NMR, 29Si CP MAS-NMR and nitrogen adsorption–desorption (BET). The results showed that in SBA-15-SH, the direct synthesis method made the absorption peak intensity weaker than that of SBA-15, while the post-grafted peak intensity did not change. Their spectra were different due to the C-H stretching bands of Si-O-Si and propyl groups. But their structure was still evenly distributed and was still hexangular mesoporous structure. Their pore size increased, and the H-SBA-15-SH had larger pore size. The adsorption of ammonia-nitrogen by molecular sieve was affected by the relative pressure and the concentration of ammonia-nitrogen, in which the adsorption capacity of G-SBA-15-SH was the largest and the adsorption capacity of SBA-15 was the smallest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]