Monitoring Changes in the Volatile Profile of Ecuadorian Cocoa during Different Steps in Traditional On-Farm Processing

The present work was conducted to evaluate the volatile profile of Ecuadorian Forastero, CCN-51, ETT103 and LR14 cocoa beans during traditional fermentation in laurel wood boxes followed by a sun-drying process. Fifty-six volatiles were identified with HS-SPME-GC-MS. Aldehydes, alcohols and ketones were the compounds that mainly characterized the fresh cocoa. The main compounds formed during the anaerobic fermentation step were esters and acids, while in the aerobic fermentation step, an increase in ester-, aldehyde- and acid-type compounds was observed. Finally, after the drying step, a notable increase in the acid (i.e., acetic acid) content was the predominant trend. According to the genotypes, ETT103 presented high contents of terpenes, alcohols, aldehydes and ketones and low contents of unfavorable acid compounds. The CCN-51 and LR14 (Trinitarian) varieties stood out for their highest amounts in acids (i.e., acetic acid) at the end of primary processing. Finally, the Forastero cocoa beans were highlighted for their low acid and high trimethylpyrazine contents. According to the chemometric and Venn diagram analyses, ETT-103 was an interestingly high-aromatic-quality variety for cocoa gourmet preparations. The results also showed the need for good control of the processing steps (using prefermentative treatments, starter cultures, etc.) on Ecuadorian genotypes of Trinitarian origin.

UHPLC-HRMS Spectrometric Analysis: Method Validation and Plasma and Urinary Metabolite Identification after Mango Pulp Intake

After an acute intake of 300 g of mango purée by 10 subjects, 0 and 24 h urine and plasma samples were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry. The method was first validated for 44 reference polyphenols in terms of linearity, specificity, limits of detection and quantification, intra-day and inter-day precision, recovery, and matrix effects in two biological matrices. After method validation, a total of 94 microbial-derived phenolic catabolites, including 15 cinnamic acids, 3 phenylhydracrylic acids, 14 phenylpropanoic acids, 12 phenylacetic acids, 28 benzoic acids, 2 mandelic acids, 15 hydroxybenzenes, and 5 hippuric acid derivatives, were identified or tentatively identified in urine and/or plasma. These results establish the value of the UHPLC-HRMS protocol and the use of authentic standards to obtain a detailed and accurate picture of mango polyphenol metabolites, together with their phase II conjugated metabolites, in human bioavailability studies.

Effect of Black Garlic Consumption on Endothelial Function and Lipid Profile: A Before-and-After Study in Hypercholesterolemic and Non-Hypercholesterolemic Subjects

BACKGROUND

Black garlic is obtained from raw garlic (Allium sativum L.), by a fermentation process, under humidity and heat treatment, showing a high concentration of organosulfur compounds, which have been related to benefits in the prevention or delay of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The objective of the research was to evaluate whether long-term consumption of black garlic improves endothelial function and lipid profile in subjects with hypercholesterolemia.

METHODS

Single center, controlled clinical trial with two branches: Hypercholesterolemia vs. Healthy condition. Sixty-two subjects of both sexes were distributed in two groups, the hypercholesterolemia group (n = 31) (total cholesterol (TC) range 200-300 mg/dL and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol range 135-175 mg/dL) and the healthy group (n = 31). The intervention consisted of the ingestion of 4 cloves of black garlic (12 g) daily for 12 weeks.

RESULTS

significant increases in Apolipoprotein (Apo)A1 occurred in both groups: Hypercholesterolemia (Δ 11.8 mg/dL p < 0.001) vs Healthy (Δ 11.1 mg/dL p < 0.001). Besides, significant reductions for endothelial adhesion molecules monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) (Δ -121.5 pg/mL p = 0.007 vs. Δ -56.3 pg/mL p = 0.015), intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) (Δ -39.3 ng/mL p < 0.001 vs. Δ 63.5 ng/mL p < 0.001), and vascular cyto-adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) (Δ -144.4 ng/mL p < 0.001 vs. Δ -83.4 ng/mL p = 0.061) were observed, for hypercholesterolemic and healthy subjects, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These data show that black garlic consumption could improve some parameters related to endothelial function and lipid profile, which may have a favorable impact on the risk of CVDs, although more long-term studies are necessary to confirm.

Exploring the potential links between gut microbiota composition and natural populations management in wild boar (Sus scrofa)

We surveyed wild boar (Sus scrofa) populations using 16S rRNA gene analysis of the gut microbiota in fresh faeces taken from 88 animals hunted in 16 hunting estates. The wild boar is a very convenient model system to explore how environmental factors including game management, food availability, disease prevalence, and behaviour may affect different biological components of wild individuals with potential implications in management and conservation. We tested the hypotheses that diet (according to stable carbon isotopes analyses), gender (i.e., animal behaviour studying males and females), and both health (analyses of serum samples to detect exposure to several diseases) and form statutes (i.e., thoracic circumference in adults) are reflected in changes in the intestinal microbiota. We focused on a gut functional biomarker index combining Oscillospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae vs. Enterobacteriaceae. We found that gender and the estate (population) were explanatory variables (c.a. 28% of the variance), albeit a high degree of overlapping among individuals was observed. The individuals with higher abundance of Enterobacteriaceae showed a gut microbiota with low diversity, mostly in males. Significant statistical differences for thoracic circumference were not found between males and females. Interestingly, the thoracic circumference was significantly and inversely related to the relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae in males. Overall, we found that diet, gender, and form status were major factors that could be related to the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota. A high variability was observed in the biomarker index for populations with natural diet (rich in C3 plants). Although, we noticed a marginally significant negative trend between the index (higher abundance of Enterobacteriaceae) and the continuous feeding of C4 plants (i.e., supplementary maize) in the diet of males. This result suggests that continuous artificial feeding in hunting estates could be one of the factors negatively influencing the gut microbiota and the form status of wild boars that deserves further investigations.

Impact of the pre-drying process on the volatile profile of on-farm processed Ecuadorian bulk and fine-flavour cocoa varieties

Aiming to improve the quality of cocoa, preconditioning of cocoa after harvesting and before fermentation has become an on-farm processing step of great interest in recent times. The present work aimed to evaluate the influence of a pre-drying process on the volatile composition of Ecuadorian bulk (Forastero and CCN-51) and fine-flavour (ETT103 and LR14) cocoa at the end of primary processing. A total of 63 volatile compounds including aldehydes, alcohols, acids, ketones, esters, terpenes, lactones and other miscellaneous compounds were identified in cocoa samples by HS-SPME-GC-MS. The use of a pre-drying step revealed a varietal homogenization and a reduction in the fermentation time, making this preconditioning step an inexpensive and attractive option for farmers. Moreover, different varietal behaviour was observed after pre-drying, the fine-flavour varieties obtaining a clear improvement in aromatic quality with higher levels of compounds imparting positive notes.

Urinary excretion of organosulfur compounds after acute ingestion of black onion

Onion (Allium cepa L.) and its newly derived product "black onion" are characterised by the presence of compounds with potential bioactivity, particularly organosulfur compounds (OSCs). However, little is known about the metabolism, distribution, and excretion of these compounds as they pass through the gastrointestinal tract. This study monitored healthy subjects after an acute intake of black onion and analysed the excretion of OSCs using UHPLC-HRMS. A total of 31 OSCs were detected in urine after the acute ingestion of black onion, the main components being S-methyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide (methiin) (13.6 ± 3.9 μmol), isoalliin (12.4 ± 4.7 μmol) and S-propyl-L-cysteine (deoxypropiin) (3.1 ± 0.7 μmol). Moreover, N-acetylated metabolites of the major OSCs detected in black onion, namely, N-acetyl-S-(1-propenyl)-L-cysteine sulfoxide (NAS1PCS) and N-acetyl-S-(1-propenyl)-L-cysteine (NAS1PC), were found in urine after black onion consumption. The N-acetylation reaction takes place in the kidneys and liver, and metabolism pathways are proposed to explain the excretion of OSCs in urine. The basis of the identification of OSCs as urinary metabolites after black onion consumption is described for the first time and provides the basis for further research.

Bioavailability of Organosulfur Compounds after the Ingestion of Black Garlic by Healthy Humans

The consumption of black garlic has been related to a decreased risk of many human diseases due to the presence of phytochemicals such as organosulfur compounds (OSCs). However, information on the metabolization of these compounds in humans is limited. By means of ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS), this study aims to determine the OSCs and their metabolites excreted in urine 24 h after an acute intake of 20 g of black garlic by healthy humans. Thirty-three OSCs were identified and quantified, methiin (17,954 ± 6040 nmol), isoalliin (15,001 ± 9241 nmol), S-(2-carboxypropyl)-L-cysteine (8804 ± 7220 nmol) and S-propyl-L-cysteine (deoxypropiin) (7035 ± 1392 nmol) being the main ones. Also detected were the metabolites N-acetyl-S-allyl-L-cysteine (NASAC), N-acetyl-S-allyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide (NASACS) and N-acetyl-S-(2-carboxypropyl)-L-cysteine (NACPC), derived from S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC), alliin and S-(2-carboxypropyl)-L-cysteine, respectively. These compounds are potentially N-acetylated in the liver and kidney. The total excretion of OSCs 24 h after the ingestion of black garlic was 64,312 ± 26,584 nmol. A tentative metabolic pathway has been proposed for OSCs in humans.

Bioavailability of orange juice (poly)phenols: β-glucan-rich oat bran decreases urinary excretion of flavanone phase II metabolites and enhances excretion of microbiota-derived phenolic catabolites

The impact of β-glucan-rich oat bran on the bioavailability of orange juice (OJ) flavanones was investigated. Volunteers consumed 500 mL of OJ with and without 22 g of oat bran containing 6 g of β-glucan (OB-6). Urine collected 12 h prior to and over a 0-24 h period post-supplementation was analysed by UHPLC-HRMS. Sixteen flavanone metabolites and thirty-nine colon-derived phenolic catabolites were identified and quantified. The major compounds were hesperetin-3'-glucuronide, along with hippuric acids and the C₆-C₃ phenolic acids 3-(3'-hydroxy-4'-methoxyphenyl)hydracrylic acid and 3-(4'-hydroxy-3'-methoxyphenyl)propanoic acid. A marked reduction in the 0-24 h excretion of flavanone metabolites from 29.7 μmol (9.3% recovery) to 9.3 μmol (2.9% recovery), occurred following consumption of OB-6 compared to OJ. This appeared not to be an effect of fiber on the rate of transport in the upper gut. After consumption of OJ there was a 163 ± 15 μmol excretion of colon-derived phenolic catabolites, equivalent to 43% of (poly)phenol intake and following OB-6 intake there was a further significant 30% increase. The β-oat bran in OB-6 contained 5.8 μmol of free and 52 μmol of bound phenolic derivatives compared to 371 μmol of OJ (poly)phenols. The elevated excretion of phenolics after OB-6 consumption appears not to be due to bound phenolics in the bran, rather it is consequence, principally, of a bran-mediated increase in the quantities of flavanones passing from the upper to the lower bowel where they were subjected to microbiota-mediated catabolism. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04867655.

Effect of In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion and Colonic Fermentation on the Stability of Polyphenols in Pistachio (Pistacia Vera L.)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and colonic fermentation on the polyphenol compounds from different varieties of pistachio by UHPLC-HRMS analysis. The total polyphenol content decreased significantly, mostly during oral (recoveries of 27 to 50%) and gastric digestion (recoveries of 10 to 18%), with no significant changes after the intestinal phase. After in vitro digestion, the hydroxybenzoic acids and the flavan-3-ols were the main compounds found in pistachio, with respective total polyphenol contents of 73 to 78% and 6 to 11%. More specifically, the main compounds determined after in vitro digestion were 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic hexoside and epigallocatechin gallate. The colonic fermentation affected the total phenolic content of the six varieties studied, with a recovery range of 11 to 25% after 24 h of fecal incubation. A total of twelve catabolites were identified after fecal fermentation, the main compounds being the 3-(3'-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic, 3-(4'-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic, 3-(3',4'-dihydroxyphenyl)propanoic, 3-hydroxyphenylacetic acids and 3,4-dihydroxyphenyl-ɣ-valerolactone. Based on these data, a catabolic pathway for colonic microbial degradation of phenolic compounds is proposed. The catabolites identified at the end of the process are potentially responsible for the health properties attributed to pistachio consumption.

Effect of Drying Technique on the Volatile Content of Ecuadorian Bulk and Fine-Flavor Cocoa

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) is one of the most widely consumed edible seeds in the world affected by on-farm processing. This study investigated the effect of different drying techniques, namely oven drying (OD), sun drying (SD), and a modification of sun drying using black plastic sheeting (SBPD), on the volatile profile of fine-flavor and bulk cocoa varieties analyzed by HS-SPME-GC-MS. A total of sixty-four volatile compounds were identified in fresh and dried cocoa. As expected, the volatile profile was clearly modified after the drying step, showing strong differences among cocoa varieties, this factor and its interaction with the drying technique having greater influence according to the ANOVA simultaneous component analysis. A principal component analysis revealed a close relationship between the volatile content of bulk cocoa samples dried by the OD and SD techniques, whereas slight volatile modifications were perceived among fine-flavor samples dried using the three different techniques under study. Overall, the results provide the basis for the potential application of the simplest inexpensive SBPD technique in order to accelerate the drying process of sun drying and produce cocoa with similar (fine-flavor cocoa) or improved (bulk cocoa) aromatic quality to that formed using the traditional SD or the small-scale OD.

Long-term supplementation with anthocyanin-rich or -poor Rubus idaeus berries does not influence microvascular architecture nor cognitive outcome in the APP/PS-1 mouse model of Alzheimer's disease

Disruption of microvascular architecture is a common pathogenic mechanism in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Given the anti-angiogenic activity of berry (poly)phenols, we investigated whether long-term feeding of Rubus idaeus (raspberries) could ameliorate cerebral microvascular pathology and improve cognition in the APP/PS-1 mouse model of AD. Male C57Bl/6J mice (50 wild type, 50 APP/PS-1) aged 4-months were fed for 24-weeks, with a normal diet enriched with either 100 mg/day glucose (control diet) or supplemented with glucose and freeze-dried anthocyanin-rich (red) or -poor (yellow) raspberries (100 mg/day) and assessed/sampled post intervention. Cerebral microvascular architecture of wild-type mice was characterised by regularly spaced capillaries with uniform diameters, unlike APP/PS-1 transgenic mice which showed dysregulated microvascular architecture. Long-term feeding of raspberries demonstrated limited modulation of microbiota and no substantive effect on microvascular architecture or cognition in either mice model although changes were evident in endogenous cerebral and plasmatic metabolites.

Impact of Temperature on Phenolic and Osmolyte Contents in In Vitro Cultures and Micropropagated Plants of Two Mediterranean Plant Species, Lavandula viridis and Thymus lotocephalus

In this study, in vitro cultures and micropropagated plants of two Mediterranean aromatic plants, Lavandula viridis L'Hér and Thymus lotocephalus López and Morales, were exposed to different temperatures (15, 20, 25, and 30 °C). The effect of temperature on the levels of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), lipid peroxidation, and osmoprotectants (proline, soluble sugars, and soluble proteins), as well as on the phenolic profile by HPLC-HRMS and intermediates of the secondary metabolism (phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) activity and shikimic acid content), was investigated. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of the plant extracts was also analyzed. Overall, considering the lipid peroxidation and H₂O₂ content, the extreme temperatures (15 and 30 °C) caused the greatest damage to both species, but the osmoprotectant response was different depending on the species and plant material. In both species, phenolic compounds and related antioxidant activity increased with the rise in temperature in the micropropagated plants, while the opposite occurred in in vitro cultures. L. viridis cultures showed the highest biosynthesis of rosmarinic acid (92.6 g/kg_DW) at 15 °C and seem to be a good alternative to produce this valuable compound. We conclude that contrasting temperatures greatly influence both species' primary and secondary metabolism, but the response is different depending on the plant micropropagation stage.

Response of Thymus lotocephalus In Vitro Cultures to Drought Stress and Role of Green Extracts in Cosmetics

The impact of drought stress induced by polyethylene glycol (PEG) on morphological, physiological, (bio)chemical, and biological characteristics of Thymus lotocephalus López and Morales shoot cultures have been investigated, as well as the potential of iron oxide nanoparticles, salicylic acid, and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) as alleviating drought stress agents. Results showed that PEG caused oxidative stress in a dose-dependent manner, raising H₂O₂ levels and reducing shoots’ growth, photosynthetic pigment contents, and phenolic compounds production, especially phenolic acids, including the major compound rosmarinic acid. Moreover, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectra analysis revealed that PEG treatment caused changes in shoots’ composition, enhancing terpenoids biosynthesis. PEG also decreased the biological activities (antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and photoprotective) of the eco-friendly extracts obtained with a Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent. MeJA was the most efficient agent in protecting cells from oxidative damage caused by drought, by improving the biosynthesis of phenolics, like methyl 6-O-galloyl-β-D-glucopyranoside and salvianolic acids, as well as improving the extracts’ antioxidant activity. Altogether, the obtained results demonstrated a negative impact of PEG on T. lotocephalus shoots and an effective role of MeJA as a mitigating agent of drought stress. Additionally, extracts showed a good potential to be used in the cosmetics industry as skincare products.

Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope values in hair reveal management differences and hidden practices in wild boar populations

The analysis of stable isotopes in different tissues has been widely used to obtain information on the ecology and nutritional patterns of wildlife. The isotope ratios of the stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen (δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N) analysed in different tissues are directly related to the animal's diet and, to some extent, to the environment where the individual has growth. Specifically, this type of analysis in hair samples has become relevant as it provides information on the quality and long-term composition of the diet that produced the isotope accumulation during the tissue growth. We took samples of wild boar (Sus scrofa) hair from 7 different populations in the south-west of Spain (Mediterranean habitats), in the 2018/2019 hunting season. The main objectives of this study were (i) to investigate the use of hair stable isotopes to reveal differences in composition and quality of the diet of wild boar within the same population or between populations, and (ii) to use hair isotopes as a tool to uncover hidden management practices that may occur in hunting areas associated with the use of supplementary feeding or even captive breeding and release. Each animal had a hair (long 10 cm) analysed in duplicate, previously cut into parts of equal size (from the oldest part of the hair to the most recent part), that were analysed separately. We found differences in δ¹³C and δ ¹⁵N between hair parts and populations, which can be related to management actions at different times during the hair growth. Moreover, the use of corn, a type of plant not occurring naturally in the study area, can be documented with the isotope analysis to prove unauthorized supplementary feeding or captive origin of wild boar in hunting areas.

Effects of colonic fermentation on the stability of fresh and black onion bioactives

The health properties related to onion intake are attributed mainly to the presence of bioactive compounds, particularly phenolic and organosulfur compounds (OSCs). The aim of this study was to investigate, for the first time, the effect of an in vitro colonic fermentation on the stability of phenolic and OSCs of fresh and black onion by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry with a linear ion trap (UHPLC-LIT-MS). Throughout colonic fermentation, fresh onion showed an increase in the total phenolic content of 45%, mainly due to an increase in the content of the flavonoid family, while the OSCs remained stable along the fermentation. Black onion presented a different behaviour, showing significant decreases in total (poly)phenol and OSC content, 22 and 48%, respectively. The main compounds found after the in vitro colonic fermentation of fresh onion were isorhamnetin (141 μmol L^-1), quercetin (95 μmol L^-1), 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (53 μmol L^-1), methionine sulfoxide (100 μmol L^-1) and S-allylcysteine (SAC) (21.7 μmol L^-1), whereas 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (70 μmol L^-1), 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (68 μmol L^-1), methionine sulfoxide (82 μmol L^-1) and S-propylmercapto-L-cysteine (SPMC) (10.1 μmol L^-1) accounted for the highest concentrations of phenolics and OSCs in fermented black onion. These compounds, presumably present for their absorption and action at the colonic level, could be related to the health benefits of regular consumption of fresh and black onion.

In Vitro Colonic Fermentation of (Poly)phenols and Organosulfur Compounds of Fresh and Black Garlic

The beneficial properties associated with garlic consumption have been related to the presence of bioactive compounds including (poly)phenols and organosulfur compounds (OSCs). This study aims to assess the effect of in vitro colonic fermentation on fresh and black garlic by determining the transformation of these compounds through ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry with a linear ion trap (uHPLC-LIT-MS). Colonic fermentation had a similar influence on the phenolic content of fresh and black garlic, with total respective decreases of 43.8% and 41.7%. Meanwhile, fermentation resulted in a significant decrease (33%) in OSCs in black garlic. Compounds such as 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, S-allylcysteine (SAC), and methionine sulfoxide were the phenolic compounds and OSCs with the highest concentration in fresh and black garlic after the in vitro fermentation. These compounds, potentially present at the colonic level, might be responsible for the systemic health benefits associated with the consumption of black and fresh garlic.

Evaluation of Phenolic Profile and Antioxidant Activity of Eleven Pistachio Cultivars (Pistacia vera L.) Cultivated in Andalusia

Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) is a nut with a good adaptability to the Mediterranean conditions of cultivation, specifically in the Andalusian region, becoming an emerging crop. Moreover, it has been getting attention in the past years for the great content of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols. Although some studies have reported the polyphenolic profile of pistachios, most of them have analyzed the hull part, considered as a residue, and not the kernel which is the edible part. Therefore, characterization of eleven varieties of pistachios kernels cultivated in Andalusia and harvested in 2019 and 2020 was carried out by UHPLC-MS (ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry). The identification and quantification of 56 polyphenolic compounds was performed, being the hydroxybenzoic acids group the most abundant with a 71−86% of the total amount followed by flavan-3-ols group that accounted for 8−24%. Moreover, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid was the main compound in most of the varieties, followed by vanillic acid hexoside. Larnaka, Avdat, Aegina, and Mateur presented the highest amount of total polyphenols, while Kalehghouchi, Joley, Lost Hills, Kerman, and Golden Hills were the varieties with the lowest content. Regarding the harvest season, no significant differences (p < 0.01) were found in the total amount of polyphenols between 2019 and 2020. In addition, the antioxidant activity was measured by DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl), ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), and ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) assays, showing a similar trend as that of the polyphenols.

Evaluation of Antioxidant and Wound-Healing Properties of EHO-85, a Novel Multifunctional Amorphous Hydrogel Containing Olea europaea Leaf Extract

The excess of free radicals in the wound environment contributes to its stagnation during the inflammatory phase, favoring hard-to-heal wounds. Oxidative stress negatively affects cells and the extracellular matrix, hindering the healing process. In this study, we evaluated the antioxidant and wound-healing properties of a novel multifunctional amorphous hydrogel-containing Olea europaea leaf extract (OELE). Five assessments were performed: (i) phenolic compounds characterization in OELE; (ii) absolute antioxidant activity determination in OELE and hydrogel (EHO-85); (iii) antioxidant activity measurement of OELE and (iv) its protective effect on cell viability on human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and keratinocytes (HaCaT); and (v) EHO-85 wound-healing-capacity analysis on diabetic mice (db/db; BKS.Cg-m+/+Leprdb). The antioxidant activity of OELE was prominent: 2220, 1558, and 1969 µmol TE/g by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays, respectively. Oxidative stress induced with H2O2 in HDFs and HaCaT was normalized, and their viability increased with OELE co-treatment, thus evidencing a protective role. EHO-85 produced an early and sustained wound-healing stimulating effect superior to controls in diabetic mice. This novel amorphous hydrogel presents an important ROS scavenger capacity due to the high phenolic content of OELE, which protects skin cells from oxidative stress and contributes to the physiological process of wound healing.

Grape seed extract supplementation modulates hepatic lipid metabolism in rats. Implication of PPARβ/δ

Grape seed extract supplementationat low doses (25 mg per kg BW per day) modulates the transcriptional programs that controls the hepatic lipid metabolism in lean normolipidemic Wistar rats through PPARβ/δ activation.

Acute effect of oat β-glucan on the bioavailability of orange juice flavanones

The impact of β-glucan on the bioavailability of orange juice (OJ) flavanones was investigated in a randomised controlled trial. Volunteers consumed 500 mL of OJ without or with either 3 g (OB-3) or 6 g (OB-6) of β-glucan. Urine samples, collected 12 h before and over a 0-24 h period post-supplementation, were analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. The overall 0-24 h urinary excretion of the 17 flavanone metabolites identified and quantified in urine after OJ ingestion corresponded to 29.7 µmol, and 25.0 and 9.3 µmol, respectively, after OB-3 and OB-6 intake. This corresponds to 9.3, 7.9, and 2.9% recoveries of the 318 µmol of the ingested flavanones. The acute ingestion of OJ with 6 g, but not 3 g of β-glucan led to a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the excretion of flavanone metabolites compared with consumption of OJ alone.

Impact of Metallic Nanoparticles on In Vitro Culture, Phenolic Profile and Biological Activity of Two Mediterranean Lamiaceae Species: Lavandula viridis L'Hér and Thymus lotocephalus G. López and R. Morales

Nanoparticles (NPs) recently emerged as new chemical elicitors acting as signaling agents affecting several processes in plant metabolism. The aim of this work was to investigate the impact of the addition of copper oxide (CuO), zinc oxide (ZnO) and iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) NPs (<100 nm) at different concentrations (1, 5 and 10 mg/L) to the culture media on several morphological, physiological and -biochemical parameters of in vitro shoot cultures of Lavandula viridis L’Hér and Thymus lotocephalus G. López and R. Morales (Lamiaceae), as well as on phenolic profile and bioactivity (antioxidant and enzyme inhibition capacities). Although some decreases in shoot number and length were observed in response to NPs, biomass production was not affected or was improved in both species. Most NPs treatments decreased total chlorophyll and carotenoid contents and increased malondialdehyde levels, an indicator of lipid peroxidation, in both species. HPLC-HR-MS analysis led to the identification of thirteen and twelve phenolic compounds, respectively, in L. viridis and T. lotocephalus extracts, being rosmarinic acid the major compound found in all the extracts. ZnO and Fe₃O₄ NPs induced an increase in total phenolic and rosmarinic acid contents in T. lotocephalus extracts. Additionally, some NPs treatments also increased antioxidant activity in extracts from this species and the opposite was observed for L. viridis. The capacity of the extracts to inhibit tyrosinase, acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes was not considerably affected. Overall, NPs had a significant impact on different parameters of L. viridis and T. lotocephalus in vitro shoot cultures, although the results varied with the species and NPs type.

Endophytic Colonization by the Entomopathogenic Fungus Beauveria Bassiana Affects Plant Volatile Emissions in the Presence or Absence of Chewing and Sap-Sucking Insects

Entomopathogenic fungi are gaining acceptance in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems as effective and environmental safety biological control agents to protect a great variety of crops against pest insects. Many of these insect-pathogenic fungi can establish themselves as endophytes and thereby may induce the plant immune system. The activation of plant defenses by the fungal endophytic colonization can have a direct impact on herbivores and plant pathogens. An integral component of many plant defense responses is also the release of volatile organic compounds, which may serve as an indirect defense by attracting the natural enemies of herbivores. Here we investigated the effect of endophytic colonization by the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana on the volatile emission by melon and cotton plants, either unharmed or after being damaged by sap-sucking aphids or leaf chewing caterpillars. We found that when the plants are colonized by B. bassiana they emit a different blend of volatile compounds compared to uncolonized control plants. Some of the emitted compounds have been reported previously to be released in response to herbivory and have been implicated in natural enemy attraction. Several of the compounds are also known to have antimicrobial properties. Therefore, endophytic colonization by B. bassiana might help to not only direct control insect pests but also increase the resistance of plants against agronomically important pests and phytopathogens.

Potential Health Benefits of Plant Food-Derived Bioactive Components: An Overview

Plant foods are consumed worldwide due to their immense energy density and nutritive value. Their consumption has been following an increasing trend due to several metabolic disorders linked to non-vegetarian diets. In addition to their nutritive value, plant foods contain several bioactive constituents that have been shown to possess health-promoting properties. Plant-derived bioactive compounds, such as biologically active proteins, polyphenols, phytosterols, biogenic amines, carotenoids, etc., have been reported to be beneficial for human health, for instance in cases of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, as well as for people with gut, immune function, and neurodegenerative disorders. Previous studies have reported that bioactive components possess antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties, in addition to improving intestinal barrier functioning etc., which contribute to their ability to mitigate the pathological impact of various human diseases. This review describes the bioactive components derived from fruit, vegetables, cereals, and other plant sources with health promoting attributes, and the mechanisms responsible for the bioactive properties of some of these plant components. This review mainly compiles the potential of food derived bioactive compounds, providing information for researchers that may be valuable for devising future strategies such as choosing promising bioactive ingredients to make functional foods for various non-communicable disorders.

Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents Combination: A Green Strategy to Improve the Recovery of Phenolic Compounds from Lavandula pedunculata subsp. lusitanica (Chaytor) Franco

The present study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of different natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) on the extraction of phenolic compounds from Lavandula pedunculata subsp. lusitanica (Chaytor) Franco, on the antioxidant activity, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and tyrosinase (Tyr) inhibitory capacities. Ten different NADES were used in this research and compared with conventional solvents. Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) for 60 min proved to be the best extraction condition, and proline:lactic acid (1:1) and choline chloride:urea (1:2) extracts showed the highest total phenolic contents (56.00 ± 0.77 mgGAE/gdw) and antioxidant activity [64.35 ± 1.74 mgTE/gdw and 72.13 ± 0.97 mgTE/gdw in 2.2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2.2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) methods, respectively]. These extracts also exhibited enzymes inhibitory capacity particularly against Tyr and AChE. Even so, organic acid-based NADES showed to be the best extractants producing extracts with considerable ability to inhibit enzymes. Twenty-four phenolic compounds were identified by HPLC-HRMS, being rosmarinic acid, ferulic acid and salvianolic acid B the major compounds. The results confirmed that the combination of UAE and NADES provide an excellent alternative to organic solvents for sustainable and green extraction, and have huge potential for use in industrial applications involving the extraction of bioactive compounds from plants.

Antioxidant Activity and Bio-Accessibility of Polyphenols in Black Carrot (Daucus carota L. ssp. sativus var. atrorubens Alef.) and Two Derived Products during Simulated Gastrointestinal Digestion and Colonic Fermentation

Black carrot has been attracting increasing thanks to its high bioactive compound content. This study presents the polyphenol bio-accessibility of black carrot and two derived products (black carrot snack (BC snack) and black carrot seasoning (BC seasoning)) after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and colonic fermentation. Additionally, antioxidant activity was measured by 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assays. Nine flavonoids and eight anthocyanins were determined by ultra high-performance liquid chromatography high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) analysis, the predominant compounds being the hydroxycinnamic acids 3-O-feruloylquinic acid, 4-O-feruloylquinic acid and chlorogenic acid. The BC snack (108 µmol/g DW) presented the highest total polyphenol content, followed by BC seasoning (53 µmol/g DW) and black carrot (11.4 µmol/g DW). The main polyphenols still bio-accessible after in vitro digestion were the hydroxycinnamic acids, with mean recovery rates of 113 % for black carrot, 69% for BC snack and 81% for BC seasoning. The incubation of black carrot and its derived products with human faecal bacterial resulted in the complete degradation of anthocyanins and in the formation of mainly 3-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic acid as the major catabolic event. In conclusion, our results suggest that the black carrot matrix impacts significantly affects the bio-accessibility of polyphenols and, therefore, their potential health benefits.

Impact of Sequential Inoculation with the Non-Saccharomyces T. delbrueckii and M. pulcherrima Combined with Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strains on Chemicals and Sensory Profile of Rosé Wines

Controlled inoculations of non-Saccharomyces yeasts are becoming increasingly used to produce high-quality wines due to their enological potential. In this study, we evaluated the impact of sequential inoculation with the commercial non-Saccharomyces yeasts (Torulaspora delbrueckii and Metschnikowia pulcherrima) in combination with Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the chemical and sensory profile of rosé wines. Sequential inoculation with T. delbrueckii produced wines with an overall reduction in esters, mainly explained by the lower concentrations of ethyl esters of medium-chain fatty acids and isoamyl acetate. The lower ester concentrations of these wines were related to a reduction in fruity descriptors. An increase was observed, however, in other minor esters such as cinnamates and ethyl esters of branched acids. Zinc, ethyl isobutyrate, and ethyl dihydrocinnamate were selected as potential markers for this fermentation strategy. Sequential inoculation with M. pulcherrima resulted in rosé wines with an enhanced ester profile, reduced acetaldehyde, and increased anthocyans and tannins. Compared to the control wines fermented with S. cerevisiae, the changes observed in these wines were far subtler, especially for the volatile profile, sensory characteristics, and color parameters, with isobutyl hexanoate and isoamyl butyrate being selected as potential markers.

In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion and Colonic Catabolism of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Pulp Polyphenols

Mango (Mangifera indica L.), a fruit with sensorial attractiveness and extraordinary nutritional and phytochemical composition, is one of the most consumed tropical varieties in the world. A growing body of evidence suggests that their bioactive composition differentiates them from other fruits, with mango pulp being an especially rich and diverse source of polyphenols. In this study, mango pulp polyphenols were submitted to in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and colonic fermentation, and aliquots were analyzed by HPLC-HRMS. The main phenolic compounds identified in the mango pulp were hydroxybenzoic acid-hexoside, two mono-galloyl-glucoside isomers and vanillic acid. The release of total polyphenols increased after the in vitro digestion, with an overall bioaccessibility of 206.3%. Specifically, the most bioaccessible mango polyphenols were gallic acid, 3-O-methylgallic acid, two hydroxybenzoic acid hexosides, methyl gallate, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid and benzoic acid, which potentially cross the small intestine reaching the colon for fermentation by the resident microbiota. After 48 h of fecal fermentation, the main resultant mango catabolites were pyrogallol, gallic and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acids. This highlighted the extensive transformation of mango pulp polyphenols through the gastrointestinal tract and by the resident gut microbiota, with the resultant formation of mainly simple phenolics, which can be considered as biomarkers of the colonic metabolism of mango.

Plasma pharmacokinetics of (poly)phenol metabolites and catabolites after ingestion of orange juice by endurance trained men

The health benefits of orange juice (OJ) consumption are attributed in part to the circulating flavanone phase II metabolites and their microbial-derived ring fission phenolic catabolites. The present study investigated these compounds in the bloodstream after acute intake of 500 mL of OJ. Plasma samples obtained at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 24 h after OJ intake were analysed by HPLC-HR-MS. Eleven flavanone metabolites and 36 phenolic catabolites were identified and quantified in plasma. The main metabolites were hesperetin-3'-sulfate with a peak plasma concentration (C_max) of 80 nmol/L, followed by hesperetin-7-glucuronide (C_max 24 nmol/L), hesperetin-3'-glucuronide (C_max 18 nmol/L) and naringenin-7-glucuronide (C_max 21 nmol/L). Among the main phenolic catabolites to increase in plasma after OJ consumption were 3'-methoxycinnamic acid-4'-sulfate (C_max 19 nmol/L), 3-hydroxy-3-(3'-hydroxy-4'-methoxyphenyl)propanoic acid (C_max 20 nmol/L), 3-(3'-hydroxy-4'-methoxyphenyl)propanoic acid (C_max 19 nmol/L), 3-(4'-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic acid (C_max 25 nmol/L), and 3-(phenyl)propanoic acid (C_max 19 nmol/L), as well as substantial amounts of phenylacetic and hippuric acids. The comprehensive plasma pharmacokinetic profiles that were obtained are of value to the design of future ex vivo cell studies, aimed at elucidating the mechanisms underlying the potential health benefits of OJ consumption. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02627547.

Bioaccessibility of Bioactive Compounds of 'Fresh Garlic' and 'Black Garlic' through In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion

Numerous studies have reported health benefits associated with the consumption of fresh and black garlic, which are characterized by the presence of polyphenols and organosulfur compounds (OS). This study aims to analyze the bioaccessibility of the bioactive compounds in fresh and black garlic after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion by monitoring the individual profile of these compounds by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS). Polyphenols decreased from the beginning of the digestive process, is mainly affected during intestinal digestion. Regarding the OS, the S-alk(en)yl-L-cysteine (SACs) derivatives were more influenced by the acidic conditions of the gastric digestion, while the γ-glutamyl-S-alk(en)yl-L-cysteine (GSAk) derivatives were more susceptible to intestinal digestion conditions in both the fresh and black garlic samples. In conclusion, after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion, the compounds with the highest bioaccessibility were vanillic acid (69%), caffeic acid (52%), γ-glutamyl-S-methyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide (GSMCS) (77%), and S-allylmercapto-L-cysteine (SAMC) (329%) in fresh garlic. Meanwhile, in black garlic, the main bioaccessible compounds were caffeic acid (65%), GSMCS (89%), methionine sulfoxide (262%), trans-S-(1-propenyl)-L-cysteine (151%), and SAMC (106%). The treatment (heating + humidity) to obtain black garlic exerted a positive effect on the bioaccessibility of OS compounds, 55.3% of them remaining available in black garlic, but only 15% in fresh garlic. Polyphenols showed different behavior regarding bioaccessibility.

Bioavailability of red wine and grape seed proanthocyanidins in rats

This study explored plasma levels and urinary and fecal excretion of metabolites and microbial-derived catabolites over a 24 h period following the ingestion of red wine (RWP) or grape seed (GSP) proanthocyanidin-rich extracts by rats. In total, 35 structurally-related (epi)catechin metabolites (SREMs) and 5-carbon side chain ring fission metabolites (5C-RFMs) (phenyl-γ-valerolactones and phenylvaleric acids), and 50 phenolic acid and aromatic catabolites were detected after intakes of both extracts. The consumption of the RWP extract, but not the GSP extract, led to the appearance of a ∼200 nmol L^-1 peak plasma concentration of SREMs formed from flavan-3-ol monomers. In contrast, ingestion of the GSPs, but not the RWPs, resulted in a substantial increase in microbiota-derived 5-carbon side chain ring fission metabolites (5C-RFMs) in plasma. 5C-RFMs, along with low molecular weight phenolic catabolites were detected in urine after ingestion of both extracts. The GSP and RWP extracts had respective mean degrees of polymerisation 5.9 and 6.5 subunits, and the RWP extract had an upper polymer size of 21 subunits compared to 44 subunits for the GSP extract. The differences in plasma metabolite profiles might, therefore, be a consequence of this polydispersity impacting on the microbiota-mediated rates of cleavage of the proanthocyanidin subunits and their subsequent metabolism and absorption. Urinary excretion of phenolic catabolites indicated that 11% of RWPs and 7% for GSPs were subjected to microbial degradation. In all probability these figures, rather than representing the percentage of proanthocyanidins that are completely degraded, indicate partial cleavage of monomer subunits producing a much higher percentage of shortened proanthocyanidin chains. Obtaining more detailed information on the in vivo fate of proanthocyanidins is challenging because of the difficulties in analysing unabsorbed parent proanthocyanidins and their partially degraded flavan-3-ol subunit chains in feces. Further progress awaits the development of improved purification and analytical techniques for proanthocyanidins and their use in feeding studies, and in vitro fecal and bacterial incubations, with radio and/or stable isotope-labelled substrates.

Multivariate optimization of headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for the analysis of terpenoids in sparkling wines

A headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled to gas-chromatography and mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) was developed and validated for the determination of 26 terpenes in sparkling wines. The use of a Box-Behnken experimental design, together with the desirability function D, allowed the extraction conditions of the method to be optimized. The optimal extraction conditions were found at a dilution ratio of 2:3, the addition of 3.5 g of NaCl, an extraction temperature of 46 °C and an extraction time of 52 min, using the DVB/CAR/PDMS fibre. Afterwards, the analytical method was successfully validated in terms of linearity, matrix effect, limit of detection and quantification, precision and accuracy. To test the developed method, 35 commercial sparkling wines from different grape varieties, geographical regions and ageing times were analysed and their terpenoid profile was monitored. The use of multivariate statistical tools made it possible to highlight differences in the samples related to the terpene profile. Finally, the most important compounds involved in the discrimination of the samples were identified by means of iterative variable selection procedures.

Quantification of Total Phenolic and Carotenoid Content in Blackberries (Rubus Fructicosus L.) Using Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) and Multivariate Analysis

A rapid method to quantify the total phenolic content (TPC) and total carotenoid content (TCC) in blackberries using near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was carried out aiming to provide reductions in analysis time and cost for the food industry. A total of 106 samples were analysed using the Folin-Ciocalteu method for TPC and a method based on Ultraviolet-Visible Spectrometer for TCC. The average contents found for TPC and TCC were 24.27 mg·g⁻¹ dw and 8.30 µg·g⁻¹ dw, respectively. Modified partial least squares (MPLS) regression was used for obtaining the calibration models of these compounds. The RPD (ratio of the standard deviation of the reference data to the standard error of prediction (SEP)) values from external validation for both TPC and TCC were between 1.5 < RPDp < 2.5 and RER values (ratio of the range in the reference data to SEP) were 5.92 for TPC and 8.63 for TCC. These values showed that both equations were suitable for screening purposes. MPLS loading plots showed a high contribution of sugars, chlorophyll, lipids and cellulose in the modelling of prediction equations.

Impact of a (poly)phenol-rich extract from the brown algae Ascophyllum nodosum on DNA damage and antioxidant activity in an overweight or obese population: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Epidemiologic evidence suggests that a diet rich in (poly)phenols has beneficial effects on many chronic diseases. Brown seaweed is a rich source of (poly)phenols.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the bioavailability and effect of a brown seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum) (poly)phenol extract on DNA damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation in vivo.

Design

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial was conducted in 80 participants aged 30-65 y with a body mass index (in kg/m2) ≥25. The participants consumed either a 400-mg capsule containing 100 mg seaweed (poly)phenol and 300 mg maltodextrin or a 400-mg maltodextrin placebo control capsule daily for an 8-wk period. Bioactivity was assessed with a panel of blood-based markers including lymphocyte DNA damage, plasma oxidant capacity, C-reactive protein (CRP), and inflammatory cytokines. To explore the bioavailability of seaweed phenolics, an untargeted metabolomics analysis of urine and plasma samples after seaweed consumption was determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry.

Results

Consumption of the seaweed (poly)phenols resulted in a modest decrease in DNA damage but only in a subset of the total population who were obese. There were no significant changes in CRP, antioxidant status, or inflammatory cytokines. We identified phlorotannin metabolites that are considered potential biomarkers of seaweed consumption including pyrogallol/phloroglucinol-sulfate, hydroxytrifurahol A-glucuronide, dioxinodehydroeckol-glucuronide, diphlorethol sulfates, C-O-C dimer of phloroglucinol sulfate, and C-O-C dimer of phloroglucinol.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the first comprehensive study investigating the bioactivity and bioavailability of seaweed (poly)phenolics in human participants. We identified several potential biomarkers of seaweed consumption. Intriguingly, the modest improvements in DNA damage were observed only in the obese subset of the total population. The subgroup analysis should be considered exploratory because it was not preplanned; therefore, it was not powered adequately. Elucidation of the biology underpinning this observation will require participant stratification according to weight in future studies. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02295878.

A critical evaluation of the use of gas chromatography- and high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry techniques for the analysis of microbial metabolites in human urine after consumption of orange juice

The present study compared and validated two analytical methods, HPLC-HRMS, and GC-MS using MSTFA as derivatization agent, for the analysis of microbiota-derived phenolic acids and aromatic compounds accumulating in urine, collected over a 24 h period after the consumption of 500 mL of orange juice. In addition, purification procedures using SDB-L and HLB solid phase cartridges were compared when HPLC-HRMS technique was used. Both HPLC-HRMS and GC-MS methodologies were successfully validated in terms of specificity, sensitivity, limit of detection and quantification, recovery and matrix effects. HPLC-HRMS, unlike GC-MS, does not require sample derivatization prior to analysis. GC-MS was not suitable for the analysis of phenolic sulfate and glucuronide metabolites because of their lack of volatility. These phase II metabolites could, however, be analysed by HPLC-HRMS which, as a consequence, provided more detailed and complete information on the phenolic compounds derived from microbiota-mediated degradation of orange juice (poly)phenols. Furthermore, the use of SDB-L and HLB cartridges for sample purification prior to HPLC-HRMS analysis is suitable for free phenolics and glucuronide metabolites but not sulfate derivatives. These findings highlight that the use of an inappropriate analytical protocol can adversely affect studies on the bioavailability of dietary (poly)phenols in which microbiota-derived phenolic catabolites play an important role.

Digestibility of (Poly)phenols and Antioxidant Activity in Raw and Cooked Cactus Cladodes ( Opuntia ficus-indica)

This study aims to investigate whether heat treatment applied to cactus cladodes influences the bioaccessibility of their (poly)phenolic compounds after simulated gastric and intestinal digestion. A total of 45 (poly)phenols were identified and quantified in raw and cooked cactus cladodes by ultra high performance liquid chromatography photodiode array detector high resolution mass spectrometry. Both flavonoids (60-68% total), mainly isorhamnetin derivatives, and phenolic acids (32-40%) with eucomic acids as the predominant ones significantly ( p < 0.05) increased with microwaving and griddling processes. After in vitro gastrointestinal digestion, 55-64% of the total (poly)phenols of cooked cactus cladodes remained bioaccessible versus 44% in raw samples. Furthermore, digestive conditions and enzymes degraded or retained more flavonoids (37-63% bioaccessibility) than phenolic acids (56-87% bioaccessibility). Microwaved cactus cladodes contributed the highest amount of (poy)phenols (143.54 mg/g dm) after gastrointestinal process, followed by griddled samples (133.98 mg/g dm), showing the highest antioxidant capacity. Additionally, gastrointestinal digestion induced isomerizations among the three stereoisomeric forms of piscidic and eucomic acids.

β-Cryptoxanthin Inhibits Angiogenesis in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Through Retinoic Acid Receptor

SCOPE

β-Cryptoxanthin is an abundant carotenoid in fruits and vegetables that can be quantified in human blood serum. Yet, contrary to other carotenoids, its effects on endothelial cells and angiogenesis remain unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) are treated with 0.01, 0.1, or 1 μm of β-cryptoxanthin. Antioxidant activity is determined by its free radical scavenging and oxygen-radical absorbance capacity. The effect on migration and formation of tubular structures is studied. Additionally, effect on angiogenesis is also analyzed using an in vivo model. β-Cryptoxanthin exhibits scavenging ability, having an antioxidant effect on HUVEC. Interestingly, β-cryptoxanthin reduces their migration and angiogenesis, even in the presence of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Additionally, such carotenoid inhibits in vivo angiogenesis induced by VEGF. In addition, treatment of HUVEC with LE540 (retinoic acid receptor [RAR] panantagonist) inhibits β-cryptoxanthin antiangiogenic effect on HUVEC.

CONCLUSION

β-Cryptoxanthin inhibits angiogenesis through RAR. Thus, this carotenoid and food containing it may be useful for the prevention and treatment of angiogenic pathologies. That includes tumoral growth and wet macular degeneration associated with aging. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the antioxidant effect and antiangiogenic activity of this carotenoid on HUVEC, both in vitro and in vivo.

Sulfur free red wines through the use of grapevine shoots: Impact on the wine quality

Following a preliminary study to determine the possibility of using a grapevine shoot extract (VIN) as a sustainable alternative to sulfur dioxide (SO₂), in this study, the chromatic features, phenolic composition, and sensory analysis of wines treated with VIN at two concentrations were studied during storage in bottle for the first time. The highest differences were found in phenolic compounds after 12months of storage in bottle. The VIN wines had a low content of free anthocyanins and were high in vinyl-pyranoanthocyanins, and B-type vitisins. Consequently, they showed better chromatic characteristics. Moreover VIN, especially at high dose, preserved non-anthocyanin phenolic compounds better than SO₂. However, at this high dose some organoleptic properties were affected. VIN, when used at a low dose, is able to preserve wine composition without loss of quality.

Bioavailability of orange juice (poly)phenols: the impact of short-term cessation of training by male endurance athletes

Background: Physical exercise has been reported to increase the bioavailability of citrus flavanones.Objective: We investigated the bioavailability of orange juice (OJ) (poly)phenols in endurance-trained males before and after cessation of training for 7 d.Design: Ten fit, endurance-trained males, with a mean ± SD maximal oxygen consumption of 58.2 ± 5.3 mL · kg^-1 · min^-1, followed a low (poly)phenol diet for 2 d before drinking 500 mL of OJ containing 398 μmol of (poly)phenols, of which 330 μmol was flavanones. After the volunteers stopped training for 7 d the feeding study was repeated. Urine samples were collected 12 h pre- and 24 h post-OJ consumption. Bioavailability was assessed by the quantitative analysis of urinary flavanone metabolites and (poly)phenol catabolites with the use of high-pressure liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry.Results: During training, 0-24-h urinary excretion of flavanone metabolites, mainly hesperetin-3'-O-glucuronide, hesperetin-3'-sulfate, naringenin-4'-O-glucuronide, naringenin-7-O-glucuronide, was equivalent to 4.2% of OJ flavanone intake. This increased significantly to 5.2% when OJ was consumed after the volunteers stopped training for 7 d. Overall, this trend, although not significant, was also observed with OJ-derived colonic catabolites, which, after supplementation in the trained state, were excreted in amounts equivalent to 51% of intake compared with 59% after cessation of training. However, urinary excretion of 3 colonic catabolites of bacterial origin, most notably, 3-(3'-hydroxy-4'-methoxyphenyl)hydracrylic acid, did increase significantly when OJ was consumed postcessation compared with precessation of training. Data were also obtained on interindividual variations in flavanone bioavailability.Conclusions: A 7-d cessation of endurance training enhanced, rather than reduced, the bioavailability of OJ flavanones. The biological significance of these differences and whether they extend to the bioavailability of other dietary (poly)phenols remain to be determined. Hesperetin-3'-O-glucuronide and the colonic microbiota-derived catabolite 3-(3'-hydroxy-4'-methoxyphenyl)hydracrylic acid are key biomarkers of the consumption of hesperetin-O-glycoside-containing OJ and other citrus products. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02627547.

Bioavailability of Black Tea Theaflavins: Absorption, Metabolism, and Colonic Catabolism

Data obtained with in vitro fecal incubations and a feeding study indicate black tea theaflavin and its galloyl derivatives are not absorbed in detectable amounts in either the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract. The theaflavin skeleton is comparatively resistant to degradation by colonic bacteria with a 67% recovery being obtained after a 24 h incubation, which yielded 21 phenolic and aromatic catabolites. The theaflavin galloyl moiety was removed by the microbiota, and the released gallic acid further transformed to 3-O- and 4-O-methyl gallic acids, pyrogallol-1-sulfate and pyrogallol-2-sulfate, which were excreted in urine in amounts equivalent to 94% of intake. The main urinary product potentially derived from breakdown of the theaflavin skeleton was 3-(4'-hydroxyphenyl)propionic acid. A number of the colonic catabolites originating from gallic acid and theaflavins has been reported to be bioactive in ex vivo and in vitro models with a variety of potential modes of action.

Quantitative Profiling of Ester Compounds Using HS-SPME-GC-MS and Chemometrics for Assessing Volatile Markers of the Second Fermentation in Bottle

A quantitative approach using HS-SPME-GC-MS was performed to investigate the ester changes related to the second fermentation in bottle. The contribution of the type of base wine to the final wine style is detailed. Furthermore, a discriminant model was developed based on ester changes according to the second fermentation (with 100% sensitivity and specificity values). The application of a double-check criteria according to univariate and multivariate analyses allowed the identification of potential volatile markers related to the second fermentation. Some of them presented a synthesis-ratio around 3-fold higher after this period and they are known to play a key role in wine aroma. Up to date, this is the first study reporting the role of esters as markers of the second fermentation. The methodology described in this study confirmed its suitability for the wine aroma field. The results contribute to enhance our understanding of this fermentative step.

Identification of Plasma and Urinary Metabolites and Catabolites Derived from Orange Juice (Poly)phenols: Analysis by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry

Orange juice is a rich source of (poly)phenols, in particular, the flavanones hesperetin-7-O-rutinoside and naringenin-7-O-rutinoside. Following the acute consumption of 500 mL of orange juice containing 398 μmol of (poly)phenols by 12 volunteers, 0-24 h plasma and urine samples were analyzed by targeted high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry in order to identify flavanone metabolites and phenolic acid and aromatic catabolites. A total of 19 flavanone metabolites-comprising di-O-glucuronide, O-glucuronide, O-glucuronyl-sulfate, and sulfate derivatives of hesperetin, naringenin, and eriodictyol-and 65 microbial-derived phenolic catabolites, such as phenylpropanoid, phenylpropionic, phenylacetic, benzoic, and hydroxycarboxylic acids and benzenetriol and benzoylglycine derivatives, including free phenolics and phase II sulfate, glucuronide, and methyl metabolites, were identified or partially identified in plasma and/or urine samples. The data obtained provide a detailed evaluation of the fate of orange juice (poly)phenols as they pass through the gastrointestinal tract and are absorbed into the circulatory system prior to renal excretion. Potential pathways for these conversions are proposed.

Application of visible/near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy for predicting internal and external quality in pepper

BACKGROUND

The characterization of internal (°Brix, pH, malic acid, total phenolic compounds, ascorbic acid and total carotenoid content) and external (color, firmness and pericarp wall thickness) pepper quality is necessary to better understand its possible applications and increase consumer awareness of its benefits. The main aim of this work was to examine the feasibility of using visible/near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (VIS-NIRS) to predict quality parameters in different pepper types. Commercially available spectrophotometers were evaluated for this purpose: a Polychromix Phazir spectrometer for intact raw pepper, and a scanning monochromator for freeze-dried pepper.

RESULTS

The RPD values (ratio of the standard deviation of the reference data to the standard error of prediction) obtained from the external validation exceeded a value of 3 for chlorophyll a and total carotenoid content; values ranging between 2.5 < RPD < 3 for total phenolic compounds; between 1.5 < RPD <2.5 for °Brix, pH, color parameters a* and h* and chlorophyll b; and RPD values below 1.5 for fruit firmness, pericarp wall thickness, color parameters C*, b* and L*, vitamin C and malic acid content.

CONCLUSION

The present work has led to the development of multi-type calibrations for pepper quality parameters in intact and freeze-dried peppers. The majority of NIRS equations obtained were suitable for screening purposes in pepper breeding programs. Components such as pigments (xanthophyll, carotenes and chlorophyll), glucides, lipids, cellulose and water were used by modified partial least-squares regression for modeling the predicting equations. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of management (organic vs conventional) on volatile profiles of six plum cultivars (Prunus salicina Lindl.). A chemometric approach for varietal classification and determination of potential markers

The volatile profiles of six plum cultivars ('Laetitia', 'Primetime', 'Sapphire', 'Showtime', 'Songold' and 'Souvenir') produced under two management systems (conventional and organic) and harvested in two consecutive years were obtained by HS-SPME-GC-MS. Twenty-five metabolites were determined, five of which (pentanal, (E)-2-heptenal, 1-octanol, eucalyptol and 2-pentylfuran) are reported for the first time in Prunus salicina Lindl. Hexanal stood out as a major volatile compound affected by the management system. In addition, partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) achieved an effective classification of genotypes based on their volatile profiles. A high classification accuracy model was obtained with a sensitivity of 97.9% and a specificity of 99.6%. Furthermore, the application of a dual criterion, based on a method of variable selection, VIP (variable importance in projection) and the results of a univariate analysis (ANOVA), allowed the identification of potential volatile markers in 'Primetime', 'Showtime' and 'Souvenir' genotypes (cultivars not characterised to date).