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Abstract: Purpose Brain ischemia leads to brain edema formation and neurological impairment. Kombucha tea (KT), a fermented beverage, has antioxidant activity and potential health effects. This study investigated the protective impacts of KT pretreatment in transient global brain ischemia. Methods The Wistar male rats were divided into four experimental groups, including sham and ischemic, and two groups treated with KT. The administration of kombucha tea via gavage at doses of 1 and 2 ml/kg per day was conducted for 2 weeks before the induction of transient global cerebral ischemia. The common carotid arteries were occluded for 60 min to induce brain ischemia. Brain edema and infarct volume were assessed after 24 h of reperfusion using the dry–wet method and 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) stained, respectively. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to measure malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and antioxidant biomarkers in serum and brain tissue. Neutrophils were counted using a cell counter. Results The study found that KT pretreatment significantly decreased cerebral edema and infarct volume and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the blood and brain tissue. It also effectively increased TAC and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels in both blood and brain tissue. It also improved motor disabilities and decreased neutrophil count in peripheral blood. Conclusions KT pretreatment alleviates brain edema induced by global brain ischemia through decreased lipid peroxidation and increased antioxidant defense capacity. It could be a new approach to prevent stress oxidative damage in brain stroke subjects. PubDate: 2024-07-31
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Abstract: Aim The study aims to investigate the potential anti-pyschotic effects of bromelain in social-isolation model of schizophrenia in male and female mice. Methods Thirty male and female mice weaned at postnatal day (PND) 21 were divided into 6 groups of 5 mice per group. Group 1 to 3 were male mice subdivided into control, social isolation and bromelain (50 mg/kg b.w) groups respectively, while group 4 to 6 were female mice subdivided into control, social isolation and bromelain (50 mg/kg b.w) groups respectively. On PND 56, The animals were subjected to a battery of behavioural assessments, followed by the harvesting of their brain for biochemical, immunohistochemical, and histological assessments. Results Social isolation rearing significantly produced schizophrenia-related behaviours, oxidative stress, astrocytosis, and neuroinflammation with gender and regional specificity in the brain tissues. Bromelain prevented the development of anxiety, depression, and poor nest building capacity in male and female mice and hyperlocomotion and impaired Pre-pulse inhibition only in the female mice. These effects were mediated by the ability of bromelain to prevent neurodegeneration, astrocytes overactivation, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. Conclusion Bromelain prevented psychotic behaviours in this study through the inhibition of astrogliosis, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. Graphical abstract PubDate: 2024-07-31
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Abstract: The escalating global demand for convenient, on-the-go products and the growing inclination towards “snackification” have fueled the popularity of nutrition bars. This review paper explores the potential of pseudocereals such as quinoa, amaranth, and buckwheat, alongside dates, as key ingredients in crafting nutrition bars. Pseudocereals have been affirmed for their gluten-free nature, making them suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities, while being rich in essential nutrients. Recent studies underscore the health benefits of pseudocereals, attributed to their bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, which are known for regulating blood sugar, reducing blood pressure, exhibiting anticancer activities, mitigating oxidative stress, and preventing cardiovascular diseases. Dates, with their nutritional density, offer an abundant supply of carbohydrates, proteins, dietary fibers, essential minerals, and B complex vitamins. Their natural sweetness and sensory appeal make them a valuable addition to nutrition bars. This review comprehensively examines the nutritional composition, health benefits, and functional properties of both pseudocereals and dates. It also discusses their potential synergy in enhancing the nutritional profile and sensory qualities of nutrition bars. The review was conducted through a thorough analysis of current literature and studies on the application of pseudocereals and dates in food products. By compiling existing research, the review highlights promising avenues for developing nutritious and functional snack bars that cater to health-conscious consumers. In essence, this review underscores the potential of pseudocereals and dates to meet the growing demand for convenient, healthful snacks, emphasizing their role in the creation of innovative nutrition bars. Graphical PubDate: 2024-07-29
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Abstract: Background Functional foods have gained significant attention due to the increasing interest in holistic and complementary therapies. The growing awareness of the connection between food and well-being has propelled functional foods into the spotlight as a promising avenue for improving health and wellness. These foods contain bioactive compounds that have been found to have positive and protective effects on health. These components possess diverse biological and functional properties, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. As a result, functional foods are believed to have favorable effects on gastrointestinal disorders and other chronic diseases. Purpose The objective of this review is to shed light on the potential benefits of functional foods and components in managing and preventing gastrointestinal disorders. Methods We analyzed various studies, including case–control studies, double-blind trials, randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and pilot studies, all conducted within the past five years. Our investigation focused specifically on the effects of several functional foods and components in prevention and treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders. In this way, 11 articles have been examined in detail. Results Based on our findings, there appears to be a potential relationship between the intake of functional foods and management of gastrointestinal illnesses. However, it is important to note that further research is necessary to better comprehend precise impact of functional foods and bioactive components on gastrointestinal diseases. Conclusion We recommend conducting comprehensive clinical and epidemiological investigations to promote consumption of functional foods and to determine optimal nutrient quantities required for achieving desired health outcomes. PubDate: 2024-07-17
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Abstract: The ever-increasing demands coupled with the incessant microbial spoilage of food and food products have awakened the interest of researchers towards the search for safe and economical food preservatives. The high water content of most foods is believed to favour microbial growth, therefore causing economic loss, diseases and reduction in shelf life. In an attempt to develop eco-friendly plant-based food preservatives, a comprehensive study establishing the anti-food spoilage activity of plants was carried out. Globally, more than 5000 bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties have been discovered in plants. Secondary metabolites such as essential oils, thiols and polyphenols could be responsible for the significant antioxidant and antimicrobial activities exhibited by plants. The food preservative capacity of plants could also be linked to the classes, nature and amount of these secondary metabolites in the plant. Despite the breakthrough in the use of plants as preservatives, quite a number of plant species remain unexplored. This study unveils the pathways used to investigate the food preservative properties of unexplored plants. The current status and challenges in using plant extract as a food preservative are also discussed. Graphical abstract PubDate: 2024-07-09
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Abstract: Backgrounds Malnutrition is a severe problem in Africa and South East Asia. Mali is one of the countries where 0–59-month-old children suffer from acute malnutrition. Hence, to monitor the health and health services, this study is aimed at identifying the change in malnutrition in under-5 children and its determinants. Materials and methods Recent two rounds of data for Mali country were extracted from the demographic and health surveys (DHS) website (https://dhsprogram.com/data/) to study the change in nutritional status and determinants. Both round data were analyzed by using bi-variate, z-test, and binary logistic regression techniques. Results In Mali, stunting, wasting, and underweight children were found to be 26.7%, 8.9%, and 18.5%, respectively. In addition, significant change in socio-demographic and health predictors was seen in stunting and underweight from 2012–13 to 2018. Change in the prevalence of wasting was significant in all groups of selected predictors except in the group of size and weight at birth. The education level of the mother, institutional delivery, antenatal care, mother’s anemia, tetanus injection, birth interval, mother’s body mass index (BMI), currently breastfeeding, type of residence, toilet facility, and wealth index were significantly associated with chronic malnutrition. Conclusion Mother and social factors were the major cause of malnutrition in the country. Hence, there is a need a policy actions with a better monitoring system for improving accessibility and availability of health services at different social classes and economic levels. PubDate: 2024-07-05
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Abstract: Background Cashew nut is a good source of protein rich in arginine, an amino acid with low glycaemic index and highly implicated in sexual function. The effect of dietary supplementation of cashew nut on vital biochemical parameters linked with erectile performance after cisplatin induction was investigated in this study. Methods The experiment contained six groups of rats (n = 6): Ratswere pre-treated with cashew nut-supplemented diet for 14 days; single i.p. injection of cisplatin at 7-mg/ml/kg body weight was used to induce erectile dysfunction; 24 h later, the corpus cavernosal was isolated for various investigations. Results A marked increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) content, monoamine oxidase, adenosine deaminase, acetylcholinesterase, phosphodiesterase-5 and arginase activities with an accompanying reduction in total thiol (TSH), non-protein thiol (NPSH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and nitric oxide (NO) content was noticed in cisplatin-treated rats when compared with control rats. Supplementation of diet with cashew nut significantly reduced the cisplatin-induced imbalance in the parameters mentioned above. Also, dietary supplementation of cashew nut improved male sexual behaviour by increasing mounting, intromission and ejaculation numbers as well as reducing mounting, intromission and ejaculation latencies in male rats under normal and cisplatin-induced conditions. Conclusion As observed, cashew nut showed protection against corpus cavernosum damage induced by cisplatin. Thus, these activities could be deployed to substantiate the folkloric use of cashew nut as an aphrodisiac. PubDate: 2024-07-02
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Abstract: Background Sugar-laden foods and carbohydrate-rich diets with high glycaemic index intake are associated with weight gain, increased incidence of diabetes and is linked with increased cardiovascular risk. A blend of white mulberry leaf and apple peel extracts may reduce postprandial blood glucose surge and insulin response following dietary carbohydrate intake by limiting its digestion and uptake from the gut. Methods In this randomised, placebo-controlled, crossover study, thirty healthy male and female subjects were supplemented with either placebo or a blend of white mulberry leaf and apple peel extract (MLE + AE), 10 min before a carbohydrate- and sugar-rich meal intake. Changes in postprandial blood glucose (up to 120 min) and insulin levels (at 60 min) were measured as the primary endpoints. Changes in blood glucose incremental area under the concentration curve (iAUC), maximum concentration (Cmax) and peak time (Tmax) were compared. Results Thirty adults (mean age 31 ± 7.2 years, BMI 24 ± 3.8 kg/m2) completed the study and the MLE + AE blend relative to placebo significantly reduced glucose iAUC at 0.5 h (− 38%, 4.2 (2.2, 6.2)), 1.0 h (− 30%, 6.3 (3.2, 9.4)), 1.5 h (− 29%, 8.2 (4.1, 12.2)), and 2.0 h (− 26%, 9.2 (4.1, 14.3)). A statistically significant reduction in 1 h insulin levels (− 35%, p = 0.029) was observed. Conclusion A single-dose supplementation of MLE + AE significantly reduced the postprandial blood glucose spike and serum insulin levels. The observation of a significant glucose reduction paralleled with a significant lower insulin response supports a reduced gastrointestinal glucose absorption. None of the subjects experienced any major gastrointestinal side effects. PubDate: 2024-06-18
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Abstract: Abstract Typically, millet undergoes a series of processing treatments before being consumed and intended for the development of value-added products. Millet by-products such as husks/hulls/seed coats, bran, and broken grain account for up to 35% of the total weight of millets. Millet byproducts are mainly used as animal feed and are rarely used in product development. However, these millet by-products contain valuable bioactive compounds, polyphenols, flavonoids, xylo-oligosaccharides, bioactive peptides, micronutrients, fiber, and antioxidants. Additionally, the nutritional composition of different millet by-products varies due to differences in milling levels, millet varieties, and weather conditions. These millet by-products can be used in various ways in the food and non-food sectors. Millet husks and bran are used to develop gluten-free baked goods-breads, designer buns, and muffins. Millet by-products can be used in the design of functional foods, dietary supplements, or drugs. In addition, millet byproducts can be used to extract bioactive compounds such as water-soluble xylan, polyphenols, antioxidants, fiber, and essential oils. Peptides made from millet by-products can be employed as an ingredient in food fortification. Millet by-products are used as a source of biofuel production, cementing materials, thermoplastic composites, and in the field of nanotechnology. Despite the many benefits associated with millet by-products, they are still considered waste and an environmental hazard. This review, along the same lines, includes all possible, effective, and economical ways to valorize millet by-products. PubDate: 2024-06-17
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Abstract: Purpose Impaired adipose tissue (AT) remodeling has been suggested as a pathophysiological driver of endocrinometabolic events in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) models. Mitochondrial dysfunction, especially in the adipocyte plays a key role in AT inflammation that possibly aggravates endocrine/metabolic phenotypes in PCOS. Studies have reported short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as metabolic modulators that potentiate energy homeostasis. Butyrate, a unique form of SCFAs improves metabolic function by inhibition of histone deacetylase activity. The present study therefore hypothesized that butyrate would reverse adipose mitochondrial dysfunction/inflammation and endocrine/metabolic features of PCOS in experimental rats. Methods Eight-week-old nulliparous Wistar rats were assigned into groups (n = 5): control (CTL), butyrate (BUT), letrozole (LEZ), and LEZ + BUT. Induction of PCOS was by letrozole (1 mg/kg) for 21 days. After the confirmation of PCOS, rats were treated with butyrate (200 mg/kg) for 6 weeks. Results Animals with PCOS expressed multiple ovarian cysts and hormonal/metabolic changes characterized by hyperandrogenism/hypoestrogenism, elevated anti-Mullerian hormone and hyperinsulinemia/insulin resistance. In addition, animals also demonstrated increased plasma triglyceride, decreased adiponectin, increased leptin with corresponding decrease in adipose triglyceride, and increased inflammatory markers (NF-kB, TNF-α). A significant increase in adipose caspase-6, lipid peroxidation, and decreased GSH and mitochondrial mitofusin 2/ATP synthase were also observed in experimental PCOS rats. These alterations were accompanied by increased levels of adipose MIF. Nevertheless, the administration of butyrate alleviated these alterations in the adipose and ovarian tissues of PCOS animals. Conclusion The results suggest the ameliorative effect of butyrate on adipose mitochondrial dysfunction and/or inflammation in PCOS by modulating SIRT1-dependent pathway. PubDate: 2024-06-12 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00273-8
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Abstract: Purpose Down syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal disorder causing health problems such as obesity and constipation. It is important for adolescents with DS, who are still growing and developing, to adopt healthy eating habits. The aim of this study is to evaluate the anthropometric and nutritional status of young adolescents with DS. Methods This study was conducted on 90 young adolescents, aged 9–13 years, with DS who were receiving services at special education centers referred by the Down Syndrome Association in Istanbul. During the study period, data were collected using the “Sociodemographic and General Health Information Form,” “3-Day Food Consumption Record,” and “Food Consumption Frequency Form.” Results Among the young adolescents with DS who participated in the study, 26.6% were overweight and 44.4% were obese patients. According to the 3-day food records of the adolescents, the average daily energy intake was 1639 ± 514.1 kcal. When evaluated according to the recommended daily energy intake, it was found that 51.2% had an insufficient energy intake and 5.6% had an excess energy intake. Conclusion Although the incidence of obesity is high in young adolescents with DS, it is seen that there is inadequate energy intake. Because of this variable situation, adolescents with DS must be individually evaluated, receive medical nutrition therapy, and be followed up. PubDate: 2024-06-05 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00272-9
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Abstract: Abstract Food insecurity is an important social determinant of health hindering Canadians’ capacity to implement dietary recommendations. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 182 mothers born in Sub-Saharan Africa or the Caribbean living in Ottawa and their 6-to-12 years-old children. The study aimed to assess the association between food security status and children’s diet quality and to assess, among food insecure households, associations between children’s age and gender and their diet quality. Health Canada’s Household Food Security Survey Module was used to assess households’ food security status in the past 12 months. Children’s dietary intake was assessed using a 24-h dietary recall and diet quality was evaluated using the 2009 Canadian Healthy Eating Index (HEIC-2009). Multivariate linear, logistic regressions and chi-square test were performed. The HEIC-2009 score averaged 62.7/100. While household food insecurity was not associated with children’s overall diet quality, age and gender were associated with the consumption of specific food groups among food insecure households. In this regard, older children were more likely to have low intakes of grain products and milk and alternatives, while younger children were more likely to have high intakes of saturated fats, sodium, and energy from “other foods”. Girls were more likely to have low intakes of milk and alternatives and unsaturated fats. This study contributes to understanding dietary intakes of food insecure children from Sub-Saharan African and Caribbean migrant households living in Ottawa. Additional research is needed to explain why these age- and gender-related differences exist and compare these results to other Canadian population groups. PubDate: 2024-06-03 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00270-x
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Abstract: Objectives Epilepsy is a neurological disorder resulting from excessive electrical discharge in the brain. Bombax costatum (BC) is an herb being used in African traditional medicine for the treatment of seizures. This study evaluated the possible anti-convulsant potential of stem bark ethanolic extract of BC on PTZ-induced kindling in rats. Methods Thirty-five Wistar rats were grouped into five (n = 7) and received normal saline, 35 mg/kg of PTZ, 5 mg/kg diazepam followed by 35 mg/kg PTZ after 30 min and BC stem back ethanolic extract at 125 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg followed by 35 mg/kg of PTZ intraperitoneally after 30 min. BC was administered orally daily while normal saline and PTZ were given intraperitoneally every other day for 26 days. Seizure activity was evaluated using the Racine scale, cognitive abilities through modified elevated plus maze and anxiety through forced swimming test. Further, the levels of GABA and oxidative stress biomarkers were also evaluated from the rat’s brain homogenate. Results Pretreatment with BC significantly reduced (p < .05) the seizure score and increased GABA level in BC treated rats when compared to PTZ alone treated rats. The first transfer latency of PTZ alone treated rats was significantly increased (p < .05) relative to the control rats and rats pretreated with diazepam and BC extract. Pretreatment with BC extract at 250 mg/kg was shown to significantly increase (p < .05) the activities of catalase, reduced glutathione, and superoxide dismutase compared to the PTZ alone treated rats. Conclusions Conclusively, BC was found to prevent seizure, avert neurodegeneration, and enhance cognition in PTZ-treated rats by regulating GABA level and enhancing antioxidant activity. Therefore, BC could be explored further for possible development of antiseizure agents. PubDate: 2024-05-30 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00271-w
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Abstract: Background Hyperglycemia induces heightened oxidative stress, potentially leading to reduced muscle strength. Consequently, compounds with antioxidant properties could potentially offer protection against this decline. Uric acid (UA) is known for its antioxidant effects and has shown a positive association with muscle strength in older adults. However, whether this association extends to older adults with hyperglycemia remains unknown. Aim To assess the association between UA levels and muscle strength in older adults, stratified by glycosylated hemoglobin levels. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 2380 individuals aged 50 to 85 years (1500 normoglycemic and 880 hyperglycemic), selected from a subsample of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2002. Hyperglycemia was defined as glycosylated hemoglobin levels ≥ 5.7%. Muscle strength was assessed using a kinetic communicator isokinetic dynamometer. Serum UA levels were measured using a colorimetric method. Linear regression analyses were employed to examine the association of continuous UA values and tertiles of UA levels with muscle strength based on glycemic status, adjusting for potential confounding factors. Results Tertiles of UA levels showed a positive association with peak force in individuals with hyperglycemia (p-trend = 0.013), but not in those with normoglycemia (p-trend = 0.077). Moreover, continuous UA values were positively associated with muscle strength in older adults with hyperglycemia (β = 5.2 (0.6; 9.8); p = 0.027), whereas no association was observed in those with normal glycemia (β = 2.4 (− 2.1; 6.9); p = 0.282). Conclusion Serum UA exhibits a positive association with muscle strength in older adults with hyperglycemia; however, this association is not observed in individuals with normal glucose levels. These results suggest that UA levels may play a crucial role in muscle strength, particularly in older adults experiencing heightened oxidative stress induced by hyperglycemia. PubDate: 2024-05-17 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00269-4
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Abstract: Background Liver and renal damage manifests in patients with both acute and chronic heart failure. Meanwhile, dietary agents can influence pathogenesis of disease in several studies. Whether, taurine, a β-amino acid can ameliorate, oxidative disturbances caused by acute adrenergic stimulation remain incompletely understood. Hence, the study investigated the ameliorative impact of taurine on isoprenaline-induced hepatorenal toxicity. Methods Animals were exposed to isoprenaline (200 mg/kg ip) for two consecutive days thereafter treated with taurine (100 mg/kg ip) for 19 days. Following 21 days experimentation, animals were euthanized, blood and liver and kidney were collected for biochemical assays as well as histological studies. Results Our result showed that taurine significantly reduces serum LDH, AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine and urea as well as hepatorenal malondialdehyde and nitrite against the insult caused by isoprenaline. Levels of GSH, GST, SOD and catalase were also improved with taurine therapy. Histoarchitectural alterations as well as hepatorenal fibrosis were markedly ameliorated following taurine therapy. Conclusion taurine ameliorated hepatorenal oxidative disturbances which lead to hepatocellular membrane disruption and renal dysfunction caused by isoprenaline. PubDate: 2024-05-06 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00267-6
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Abstract: Purpose The present study was designed to compare the effect of l-carnitine alone and in combination with metformin on the behavioral and biochemical alterations of streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats. Methods Male Wistar rats were used. Control rats received saline. Diabetes was induced by the single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (45 mg/kg). Diabetic rats received insulin (1 IU sc/day), metformin (10 mg/kg/day p.o.) alone, l-carnitine (75 mg/kg/day, i.p.) alone, and a combination of l-carnitine (75 mg/kg/day) + metformin (10 mg/kg/day) daily for 14 days. Rats with blood glucose (BGL) > 200 mg/dl were considered diabetics. On the 14th day, 1 h after the drug administration, blood samples were collected and glucose, nitrite, and malondialdehyde (MDA) assays were performed. Further, the locomotor activity was determined using an open field test (OFT), and depression-related behavior was determined using a tail suspension test (TST) and forced swim test (FST). Results Combined treatment of l-carnitine and metformin significantly decreased the blood glucose level of diabetic rats at day 14 and significantly decreased the plasma nitrite level and plasma MDA level of diabetic rats as compared to metformin-alone and l-carnitine-alone-treated diabetic rats. Combined treatment of l-carnitine and metformin significantly decreased the number of squares crossed in OFT as compared to l-carnitine-alone-treated diabetic rats and significantly increased the time spent at the center of the open field as compared to untreated diabetic rats and metformin-alone and l-carnitine-alone-treated diabetic rats. Besides this, the combined therapy of l-carnitine and metformin further significantly decreased the time spent at the periphery of the open field as compared to the untreated diabetic rats and metformin-alone-treated diabetic rats. Combined treatment of l-carnitine and metformin significantly decreased the number of squares crossed in OFT as compared to l-carnitine-alone-treated diabetic rats and significantly increased the time spent at the center of the open field as compared to untreated diabetic rats and metformin-alone and l-carnitine-alone-treated diabetic rats. Besides this, the combined therapy of l-carnitine and metformin further significantly decreased the time spent at the periphery of the open field as compared to the untreated diabetic rats and metformin-alone-treated diabetic rats. In TST and FST, combined therapy further decreased the immobility period of diabetic rats as compared to metformin-alone-treated diabetic rats. Conclusion In conclusion, the study demonstrated that the addition of l-carnitine enhanced the therapeutic effects of metformin, improving glucose control, reducing depressive behaviors, and ameliorating lipid peroxidation. These findings suggested the beneficial effect of combined therapy over the metformin or l-carnitine-alone treatment. PubDate: 2024-05-06 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00268-5
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Abstract: Abstract Lagenaria siceraria, commonly known as bottle gourd, stands as a versatile member within the Cucurbitaceae family, offering global economic significance and rich cultural history. This comprehensive review explores diverse dimensions of L. siceraria, spanning its botanical characteristics, historical cultivation, and manifold uses across ornamental, culinary, medicinal, and agricultural domains. The historical cultivation segment traces the origins and distribution of L. siceraria, underlining its early domestication and global dispersion. The ornamental section uncovers artistic and cultural dimensions, while the culinary exploration spans traditional recipes in tropical regions to the resurgence of bottle gourd in contemporary European cuisine. The agricultural application as a rootstock is traced from ancient practices to its modern resurgence, contributing to improved tolerance and yield. The cultivation section offers insights into optimal growth conditions, planting practices, and various factors influencing productivity. In addition, the manuscript delves into the genetic diversity of L. siceraria, and the phytochemical composition at various ripening stages is undertaken, emphasizing the impact on fruit characteristics. Furthermore, this work reviews the isolation methods for extracting key compounds from L. siceraria, evaluating the efficiency of different solvents and procedures. The pharmacological activities of the isolated compounds take center stage, with a specific focus on antimicrobial and antidiabetic properties. The review extends its exploration to potential clinical effectiveness and elucidates possible side effects associated with the consumption of bottle gourd juice, providing essential guidelines for safe utilization. In conclusion, this comprehensive review integrates the botanical, agricultural, and medicinal aspects of L. siceraria, offering a thorough understanding of its significance and potential applications across various domains. PubDate: 2024-04-04 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00266-7
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Abstract: Purpose This study investigated the protective effects of rutin against the hepatorenal toxicity of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) exposure in rats. Methods Forty male Wistar rats were sorted into five experimental groups of 8 rats per group: control (corn oil), AFB1 (0.75 mg/kg bwt), AFB1 (1.5 mg/kg bwt), rutin (50 mg/kg bwt), and AFB1 (1.5 mg/kg bwt) + rutin (50 mg/kg bet) per oral for 30 days. Twenty-four hours (24 h) after the last treatment, antioxidant/oxidative stress parameters were assayed. Proinflammatory markers, as well as liver and kidney function tests, were assayed. Others include histology, purinergic, and indoleaminergic pathways. Results AFB1 co-treatment significantly (p < 0.05) abated AFB1-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory response when compared with the control group. Impaired hepatorenal function parameters and histological damage in the AFB1 group relative to the control were also attenuated following rutin co-treatment. Moreover, alterations in the purinergic molecules and xanthine oxidase activity following AFB1 exposure relative to the control which was accompanied by an increase in the tryptophan catabolism enzymes in the hepatorenal axis were also modulated by rutin co-treatment. Conclusion The outcome of this study revealed that rutin attenuated AFB1-induced hepatorenal toxicity in rats. This outcome is likely due to the inhibition of oxidative stress and proinflammatory response-mediated modulation of purinergic molecules and indoleaminergic activities. PubDate: 2024-03-22 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00265-8
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Abstract: Abstract Food degradation is the result of a series of modifications that make the food not suitable for consumption. It is a complicated process that involves biochemical activity of microbial chemical processes, which finally dominate ecological drivers. One of the most common ways of the process is microbial spoilage which can also form in the formation of biofilm and food degradation associated with biofilm formation. Enzymes are involved in practically every stage of biofilm detachment and destruction. Therefore, several studies have discovered that using enzymes as a therapeutic strategy can give a successful therapeutic solution for problems related to biofilm in the food industry. Live bacteriocin strains have also been shown to be effective at halting microbial development. Most fermented foods naturally include lactic acid bacteria, which are also important bacteriocin makers. Bacteriocins made by lactic acid bacteria are often referred to as endogenous antibiotics due to their ability to inhibit the growth of a number of harmful pathogens. The objective of this review is to understand and discuss strategies to prevent the food spoilage process and its preservation with the incorporation of bacteriocin into the packaging films to prevent biofilm formation on the food materials. PubDate: 2024-03-21 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00264-9
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Abstract: Purpose To investigate the biological activities and physicochemical properties of Lactococcus lactis-fermented guava (Psidium guajava, Punjab pink var) pulp powders prepared using freeze drying (FD). Method Proximate composition of these powders was determined using standard protocols by the DPPH radical scavenging assay. The powder samples were examined for biological activities—alpha glucosidase and angiotensin inhibition. SEM was used to determine morphology of FD powders; textural analysis was carried out instrumentally and sensory evaluation using 9-point hedonic scale. Microbiological analysis and shelf life (3 months) properties of powder samples were done as per recommended guidelines. Result The FD-stabilized fermented guava powders consisted of protein (5.8 ± 0.01 mg/100 g), fat (3.9 ± 0.04 mg/100 g), moisture (4.82 ± 0.003 g water/g d.b), and carbohydrates (30.8 ± 0.92 mg/100 g). Vitamin C (119.2 ± 8.78 mg/100 g), lycopene (703 ± 6.77 mg/GAE/g), and antioxidant activity (81.2% ± 3.30). Alpha glucosidase activity and angiotensin inhibitory activities were (IC50) 3.40 ± 0.08 and 2.52 ± 0.31 µg/mL, respectively, did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) than those observed in fermented pulp. Significant (p < 0.05) reduction of these values occurred in hot air-dried (HD) powders. SEM indicated uniformly distributed pores in FD-stabilized powders. Textural analysis of powders revealed these to be free flowing with low cohesive index (CI: 4.33) and caking tendency (mean caking strength: 177.37). FD guava powders that received high sensory scores were shelf stable at 28 °C for up to 3 months with insignificant (p > 0.05) changes in biological activities. The APC < 1 CFU and absence of molds and yeasts, coliforms, and Staphylococcus aureus in guava powders indicated microbiological safety. Conclusion The physicochemical properties and biological activities of L. lactis-fermented guava pulps can be effectively stabilized as a valuable food ingredient using FD for developing a functional food ingredient and a safe, healthy choice of nutrition. PubDate: 2024-03-05 DOI: 10.1186/s41110-024-00263-w
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