A Thermotolerant Yeast Cyberlindnera rhodanensis DK Isolated from Laphet-so Capable of Extracellular Thermostable β-Glucosidase Production

This study aims to utilize the microbial resources found within Laphet-so, a traditional fermented tea in Myanmar. A total of 18 isolates of thermotolerant yeasts were obtained from eight samples of Laphet-so collected from southern Shan state, Myanmar. All isolates demonstrated the tannin tolerance, and six isolates were resistant to 5% (w/v) tannin concentration. All 18 isolates were capable of carboxy-methyl cellulose (CMC) degrading, but only the isolate DK showed ethanol production at 45 °C noticed by gas formation. This ethanol producing yeast was identified to be Cyberlindnera rhodanensis based on the sequence analysis of the D1/D2 domain on rRNA gene. C. rhodanensis DK produced 1.70 ± 0.01 U of thermostable extracellular β-glucosidase when cultured at 37 °C for 24 h using 0.5% (w/v) CMC as a carbon source. The best two carbon sources for extracellular β-glucosidase production were found to be either xylose or xylan, with β-glucosidase activity of 3.07-3.08 U/mL when the yeast was cultivated in the yeast malt extract (YM) broth containing either 1% (w/v) xylose or xylan as a sole carbon source at 37 °C for 48 h. The optimal medium compositions for enzyme production predicted by Plackett-Burman design and central composite design (CCD) was composed of yeast extract 5.83 g/L, peptone 10.81 g/L and xylose 20.20 g/L, resulting in a production of 7.96 U/mL, while the medium composed (g/L) of yeast extract 5.79, peptone 13.68 and xylan 20.16 gave 9.45 ± 0.03 U/mL for 48 h cultivation at 37 °C. Crude β-glucosidase exhibited a remarkable stability of 100%, 88% and 75% stable for 3 h at 35, 45 and 55 °C, respectively.

Relatively Low Lecithin Inclusion Improved Gelling Characteristics and Oxidative Stability of Single-Washed Mackerel (Auxis thazard) Surimi

The effect of lecithin addition on the gelling characteristics and oxidative stability of single-washed mackerel (Auxis thazard) surimi was investigated in this study. Surimi was chopped in the presence of 2.5% (w/w) NaCl with different concentrations of lecithin (0, 0.1, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 g/100 g surimi). The rheological behavior, gel-forming ability, microstructure, and lipid oxidation of lecithin-added surimi varied significantly depending on lecithin content. When compared to the control, lecithin at 0.1, 0.5, and 1 g/100 g improved the breaking force of the gel (p < 0.05). The breaking force of the gel decreased significantly as lecithin concentration increased (up to 1.5 g/100 g) (p < 0.05). Deformation, on the other hand, reacted differently to the lecithin than it did to the breaking force. At a lecithin level of 0.1 g/100 g, the surimi gel displayed improved deformation (p < 0.05). Nonetheless, at higher doses (0.5-1.5 g/100 g), lecithin considerably reduced surimi gel deformation (p < 0.05), and the gel containing lecithin at 1.5 g/100 g showed significantly decreased deformation. Surimi with 0.1 g/100 g lecithin had the lowest expressible drip (p < 0.05). In general, lecithin at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 1 g/100 g reduced expressible drip (p < 0.05), but not at 1.5 g/100 g, which was equivalent to the control (p > 0.05). Adding lecithin to mackerel surimi improved its whiteness slightly, regardless of concentration. Lecithin impacted the microstructures of surimi gel in a concentration-dependent manner. Lecithin at a concentration of 0.1 g/100 g produced a densely packed network with small, jointed clusters and minimal holes within the gel. Joined clusters in the gel were reduced by 0.5-1.5 g/100 g lecithin, and continuous aggregates predominated. Surprisingly, at higher doses of lecithin, notably 1.5 g/100 g, porous structures with continuous voids were perceived. Surimi gels treated with various lecithin doses had lower thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels than the control (p < 0.05). Overall, lecithin at a low concentration of 0.1 g/100 g was most effective at improving the texture, increasing water-holding capacity, lightening the color, and delaying lipid oxidation of single-washed mackerel surimi.

Nutritional Profiles of Yoom Noon Rice from Royal Initiative of Southern Thailand: A Comparison of White Rice, Brown Rice, and Germinated Brown Rice

For long-term food sustainability and security, it is crucial to recognize and preserve Indigenous rice varieties and their diversity. Yoom Noon is one of the non-glutinous rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties being conserved as part of the Phanang Basin Area Development Project, which is administered by the Royal Initiative of Nakhon Si Thammarat in Southern Thailand. The goal of this research was to compare the nutritional profiles of Yoom Noon white rice, brown rice, and germinated brown rice. The results indicated that carbohydrate content was found to be the most plentiful macronutrient in all processed Yoom Noon rice types, accounting for 67.1 to 81.5% of the total. White rice had the highest carbohydrate content (p < 0.05), followed by brown rice and germinated brown rice. Brown rice had more protein and fat than white rice (p < 0.05). The maximum protein, dietary fiber, and ash content were found in germinated brown rice, followed by brown rice and white rice (p < 0.05). White rice had the highest amylose content, around 24% (p < 0.05), followed by brown rice (22%), and germinated brown rice (20%). Mg levels in all white, brown, and germinated brown rice ranged from 6.59 to 10.59 mg/100 g, which was shown to be the highest among the minerals studied (p < 0.05). Zn (4.10-6.18 mg/100 g) was the second most abundant mineral, followed by Fe (3.45-4.92 mg/100 g), K (2.61-3.81 mg/100 g), Mn (1.20-4.48 mg/100 g), Ca (1.14-1.66 mg/100 g), and Cu (0.16-0.23 mg/100 g). Se was not found in any processed Yoom Noon rice. Overall, brown rice had the highest content of macro- and micronutrients (p < 0.05). In all processed rice, thiamin was found in the highest amount (56-85 mg/100 g), followed by pyridoxine (18-44 g/100 g) and nicotinamide (4-45 g/100 g) (p < 0.05). Riboflavin was not identified in any of the three types of processed Yoom Noon rice. Individual vitamin concentrations varied among processed rice, with germinated brown rice having the highest thiamine content by around 1.5 and 1.3 folds compared to white and brown rice, respectively. The GABA level was the highest in germinated rice (585 mg/kg), which was around three times higher than in brown rice (p < 0.05), whereas GABA was not detectable in white rice. The greatest total extractable flavonoid level was found in brown rice (495 mg rutin equivalent (RE)/100 g), followed by germinated brown rice (232 mg RE/100 g), while white rice had no detectable total extractable flavonoid. Brown rice had the highest phytic acid level (11.2 mg/100 g), which was 1.2 times higher than germinated brown rice (p < 0.05). However, phytic acid was not detected in white rice. White rice (10.25 mg/100 g) and brown rice (10.04 mg/100 g) had the highest non-significant rapidly available glucose (RAG) values, while germinated brown rice had the lowest (5.33 mg/100 g). In contrast, germinated brown rice had the highest slowly available glucose (SAG) value (9.19 mg/100 g), followed by brown rice (3.58 mg/100 g) and white rice (1.61 mg/100 g) (p < 0.05).

Aqueous spice extracts as alternative antimycotics to control highly drug resistant extensive biofilm forming clinical isolates of Candida albicans

Candida albicans form biofilm by associating with biotic and abiotic surfaces. Biofilm formation by C. albicans is relevant and significant as the organisms residing within, gain resistance to conventional antimycotics and are therefore difficult to treat. This study targeted the potential of spice-based antimycotics to control C. albicans biofilms. Ten clinical isolates of C. albicans along with a standard culture MTCC-3017 (ATCC-90028) were screened for their biofilm-forming ability. C. albicans M-207 and C. albicans S-470 were identified as high biofilm formers by point inoculation on Trypticase Soy Agar (TSA) medium as they formed a lawn within 16 h and exhibited resistance to fluconazole and caspofungin at 25 mcg and 8 mcg respectively. Aqueous and organic spice extracts were screened for their antimycotic activity against C. albicans M-207 and S-470 by agar and disc diffusion and a Zone of Inhibition was observed. Minimal Inhibitory Concentration was determined based on growth absorbance and cell viability measurements. The whole aqueous extract of garlic inhibited biofilms of C. albicans M-207, whereas whole aqueous extracts of garlic, clove, and Indian gooseberry were effective in controlling C. albicans S-470 biofilm within 12 h of incubation. The presence of allicin, ellagic acid, and gallic acid as dominant compounds in the aqueous extracts of garlic, clove, and Indian gooseberry respectively was determined by High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. The morphology of C. albicans biofilm at different growth periods was also determined through bright field microscopy, phase contrast microscopy, and fluorescence microscopy. The results of this study indicated that the alternate approach in controlling high biofilm-forming, multi-drug resistant clinical isolates of C. albicans M-207 and S-470 using whole aqueous extracts of garlic, clove, and Indian gooseberry is a safe, potential, and cost-effective one that can benefit the health care needs with additional effective therapeutics to treat biofilm infections.

Integrated metabolite analysis and health-relevant in vitro functionality of white, red, and orange maize (Zea mays L.) from the Peruvian Andean race Cabanita at different maturity stages

The high maize (Zea mays L.) diversity in Peru has been recognized worldwide, but the investigation focused on its integral health-relevant and bioactive characterization is limited. Therefore, this research aimed at studying the variability of the primary and the secondary (free and dietary fiber-bound phenolic, and carotenoid compounds) metabolites of three maize types (white, red, and orange) from the Peruvian Andean race Cabanita at different maturity stages (milk-S1, dough-S2, and mature-S3) using targeted and untargeted methods. In addition, their antioxidant potential, and α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities relevant for hyperglycemia management were investigated using in vitro models. Results revealed a high effect of the maize type and the maturity stage. All maize types had hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids in their free phenolic fractions, whereas major bound phenolic compounds were ferulic acid, ferulic acid derivatives, and p-coumaric acid. Flavonoids such as luteolin derivatives and anthocyanins were specific in the orange and red maize, respectively. The orange and red groups showed higher phenolic ranges (free + bound) (223.9-274.4 mg/100 g DW, 193.4- 229.8 mg/100 g DW for the orange and red maize, respectively) than the white maize (162.2-225.0 mg/100 g DW). Xanthophylls (lutein, zeaxanthin, neoxanthin, and a lutein isomer) were detected in all maize types. However, the orange maize showed the highest total carotenoid contents (3.19-5.87 μg/g DW). Most phenolic and carotenoid compounds decreased with kernel maturity in all cases. In relation to the primary metabolites, all maize types had similar fatty acid contents (linoleic acid > oleic acid > palmitic acid > α-linolenic acid > stearic acid) which increased with kernel development. Simple sugars, alcohols, amino acids, free fatty acids, organic acids, amines, and phytosterols declined along with grain maturity and were overall more abundant in white maize at S1. The in vitro functionality was similar among Cabanita maize types, but it decreased with the grain development, and showed a high correlation with the hydrophilic free phenolic fraction. Current results suggest that the nutraceutical characteristics of orange and white Cabanita maize are better at S1 and S2 stages while the red maize would be more beneficial at S3.

Three new yeast species from flowers of Camellia sinensis var. assamica collected in Northern Thailand and their tannin tolerance characterization

Our recent research study focused on Miang fermentation revealed that tannin-tolerant yeasts and bacteria play vital roles in the Miang production process. A high proportion of yeast species are associated with plants, insects, or both, and nectar is one of the unexplored sources of yeast biodiversity. Therefore, this study aimed to isolate and identify yeasts of tea flowers of Camellia sinensis var. assamica and to investigate their tannin tolerance, which is a property essential to Miang production processes. A total of 82 yeasts were recovered from a total of 53 flower samples in Northern Thailand. It was found that two and eight yeast strains were distinct from all other known species within the genera Metschnikowia and Wickerhamiella, respectively. These yeast strains were described as three new species, namely, Metschnikowia lannaensis, Wickerhamiella camelliae, and W. thailandensis. The identification of these species was based on phenotypic (morphological, biochemical, and physiological characteristics) and phylogenetic analyses of a combination of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions and the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit (LSU) ribosomal RNA gene. The yeast diversity in tea flowers acquired from Chiang Mai, Lampang, and Nan provinces had a positive correlation with those acquired from Phayao, Chiang Rai, and Phrae, respectively. Wickerhamiella azyma, Candida leandrae, and W. thailandensis were the species uniquely found in tea flowers collected from Nan and Phrae, Chiang Mai, and Lampang provinces, respectively. Some of the tannin-tolerant and/or tannase-producing yeasts were associated with yeasts in the commercial Miang process and those found during Miang production, i.e., C. tropicalis, Hyphopichia burtonii, Meyerozyma caribbica, Pichia manshurica, C. orthopsilosis, Cyberlindnera fabianii, Hanseniaspora uvarum, and Wickerhamomyces anomalus. In conclusion, these studies suggest that floral nectar could support the formation of yeast communities that are beneficial for Miang production.

Diversity of the Peruvian Andean maize (Zea mays L.) race Cabanita: Polyphenols, carotenoids, in vitro antioxidant capacity, and physical characteristics

The high diversity of the Peruvian Andean maize (Zea mays L.) represents a biological and genetic heritage relevant for food security, but few studies are targeted toward its characterization and consequent valorization and preservation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of the Peruvian Andean maize race Cabanita with respect to its bioactive profiles (free and bound phenolic and carotenoid composition), physical characteristics, and in vitro antioxidant properties. Maize landraces with variable kernel pigmentation were collected from two provinces (Caylloma and Castilla) within the Arequipa region (among ten Andean sites) and the phytochemical profile was evaluated by Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with diode array detector (UHPLC-DAD). All maize samples were important sources of phenolic compounds mainly soluble p-coumaric and ferulic acid derivatives whereas anthocyanins were only detected in maize with partially red pigmented kernels. Major phenolic compounds in the bound phenolic fractions were ferulic acid and its derivatives along with p-coumaric acid. Carotenoid compounds including xanthophylls such as lutein, lutein isomers, and zeaxanthin were only detected in orange and white-yellow pigmented maize and are reported for the first time in Peruvian landraces. The multivariate analysis using Principal Components Analysis (PCA) revealed low variability of all data which may indicate a level of similarity among maize samples based on evaluated variables. However, maize grown in Caylloma province showed more homogeneous physical characteristics and higher yield, whereas higher phenolic contents and antioxidant capacity were observed in maize from Castilla. Samples CAY (yellow-pigmented kernel, Castilla) and COM (orange-pigmented kernel, Caylloma) had the highest total phenolic (246.7 mg/100 g dried weight basis, DW) and carotenoid (1.95 μg/g DW) contents among all samples. The variable Andean environmental conditions along with differences in farming practices may play a role and should be confirmed with further studies. Current results provide the metabolomic basis for future research using integrated omics platforms targeted toward the complete characterization of the ethnic-relevant maize race Cabanita.

Role of Marine Bacterial Contaminants in Histamine Formation in Seafood Products: A Review

Histamine is a toxic biogenic amine commonly found in seafood products or their derivatives. This metabolite is produced by histamine-producing bacteria (HPB) such as Proteus vulgaris, P. mirabilis, Enterobacter aerogenes, E. cloacae, Serratia fonticola, S. liquefaciens, Citrobacter freundii, C. braakii, Clostridium spp., Raoultella planticola, R. ornithinolytica, Vibrio alginolyticus, V. parahaemolyticus, V. olivaceus, Acinetobacter lowffi, Plesiomonas shigelloides, Pseudomonas putida, P. fluorescens, Aeromonas spp., Photobacterium damselae, P. phosphoreum, P. leiognathi, P. iliopiscarium, P. kishitanii, and P. aquimaris. In this review, the role of these bacteria in histamine production in fish and seafood products with consequences for human food poisoning following consumption are discussed. In addition, methods to control their activity in countering histamine production are proposed.

Polymicrobial Biofilm Dynamics of Multidrug-Resistant Candida albicans and Ampicillin-Resistant Escherichia coli and Antimicrobial Inhibition by Aqueous Garlic Extract

The polymicrobial biofilm of C. albicans with E. coli exhibits a dynamic interspecies interaction and is refractory to conventional antimicrobials. In this study, a high biofilm-forming multidrug-resistant strain of C. albicans overcomes inhibition by E. coli in a 24 h coculture. However, following treatment with whole Aqueous Garlic Extract (AGE), these individual biofilms of multidrug-resistant C. albicans M-207 and Ampicillin-resistant Escherichia coli ATCC 39936 and their polymicrobial biofilm were prevented, as evidenced by biochemical and structural characterization. This study advances the antimicrobial potential of AGE to inhibit drug-resistant C. albicans and bacterial-associated polymicrobial biofilms, suggesting the potential for effective combinatorial and synergistic antimicrobial designs with minimal side effects.

Phenolics-Linked Antioxidant and Anti-hyperglycemic Properties of Edible Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn.) Calyces Targeting Type 2 Diabetes Nutraceutical Benefits in vitro

Phenolics- enriched plant food sources are excellent dietary and therapeutic targets to combat the increasing prevalence of diet and lifestyle-influenced non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs), such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). Among plant sources, edible flowers rich in health protective phenolic compounds provide novel opportunities as ingredient and nutraceutical sources. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn.) is a popular edible flower and consumed as part of traditional cuisines and processed foods in several countries of Asia and Africa. Red calyces of Roselle are rich in phenolic compounds, which potentially have high antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic properties. Therefore, there is merit in screening of dried Roselle calyces as sources for functional food ingredients or nutraceuticals to counter chronic oxidative stress and chronic hyperglycemia using in vitro assays. This has led to this study to investigate and compare phenolic compounds associated antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic functions of different organic solvent-extracted fractions of dried Roselle calyces using rapid in vitro assays-based screening strategy. Total soluble phenolic content, profile of phenolic compounds, free radical scavenging assay-based total antioxidant activity, and anti-hyperglycemic function linked α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of four different organic solvents (chloroform, hexane, ethyl acetate, and initial crude extraction in 100% methanol) extracted fractions of calyces of Roselle were determined using in vitro assays. Studies indicated high phenolic-linked antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic relevant properties in red Roselle calyces, specifically in ethyl acetate and methanol solvent-based extracted fractions. Major phenolic compounds in extracted fractions of Roselle calyces were chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, gallic acid, catechin, rutin, benzoic acid, and cinnamic acid. Additionally, moderate α-amylase (30–92%) and very high α-glucosidase (81–98%) inhibitory activities were confirmed in undiluted samples of organic solvent-extracted fractions of Roselle calyces in the in vitro assays. Taken together these in vitro screening results indicated that calyces of Roselle are excellent sources of health protective phenolic compounds with high antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic functions and organic solvent (ethyl acetate and methanol) extracted fractions of this edible flower can be strategically utilized to design functional food ingredients and nutraceuticals.

Protective Effect of Probiotics Isolated from Traditional Fermented Tea Leaves (Miang) from Northern Thailand and Role of Synbiotics in Ameliorating Experimental Ulcerative Colitis in Mice

This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of probiotics and synbiotics from traditional Thai fermented tea leaves (Miang) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice, in comparison to sulfasalazine. C57BL/6 mice were treated with probiotics L. pentosus A14-6, CMY46 and synbiotics, L. pentosus A14-6 combined with XOS, and L. pentosus CMY46 combined with GOS for 21 days. Colitis was induced with 2% DSS administration for seven days during the last seven days of the experimental period. The positive group was treated with sulfasalazine. At the end of the experiment, clinical symptoms, pathohistological changes, intestinal barrier integrity, and inflammatory markers were analyzed. The probiotics and synbiotics from Miang ameliorated DSS-induced colitis by protecting body weight loss, decreasing disease activity index, restoring the colon length, and reducing pathohistological damages. Furthermore, treatment with probiotics and synbiotics improved intestinal barrier integrity, accompanied by lowing colonic and systemic inflammation. In addition, synbiotics CMY46 combined with GOS remarkedly elevated the expression of IL-10. These results suggested that synbiotics isolated from Miang had more effectiveness than sulfasalazine. Thereby, they could represent a novel potential natural agent against colonic inflammation.

Candida albicans Biofilm Formation and Growth Optimization for Functional Studies Using Response Surface Methodology

AIM

Optimization of Candida growth and biofilm formation is essential for understanding the recalcitrance of this pathogen to advance functional analysis on hospital tools and material surfaces. Optimization and quantification of biofilm have always been a challenge using the conventional One Variable at a Time (OVAT) method. The present study uses Central Composite Design-based Response Surface Methodology for optimization of conditions to induce growth and biofilm formation in Candida albicans on polystyrene microtitre plates.

METHODS & RESULTS

The variables considered in the design matrix were pH, temperature, incubation period, shaker speed, and inoculum size. A four-pronged quantification approach with XTT assay (cell viability), crystal violet assay (biofilm), calcofluor white assay, and wet/dry weight measurements (cell mass) were used to understand different aspects of biofilm. Heterogeneity in growth conditions for local strains of C. albicans clinical isolates were observed. Cell viability and cell mass were inversely related; however, biofilm was independent of these two factors. The study also highlighted the fact that Foetal Bovine Serum does not significantly contribute to cell adhesion and biofilm formation in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

A high throughput optimization of C. albicans growth and biofilm formation on polystyrene microplate has been developed & validated.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY

The microtiter plate-based approach can be used for future screening of therapeutics for the control of C. albicans.

Using Biological Elicitation to Improve Type 2 Diabetes Targeted Food Quality of Stored Apple

Food quality improvements of fresh fruits targeting both food preservation and human health is essential to advance healthy dietary options and to mitigate imbalanced nutrition-linked non-communicable chronic disease (NCDs) challenges globally. Specifically, protective phenolic bioactives of fruits with dual functional benefits can be harnessed to advance innovations for improving nutritional quality and post-harvest shelf-life of perishable fruits. Based on this rationale the dual functional benefits of plant phenolics were harnessed using novel biological elicitation strategies to modulate phenolic bioactive-linked protective responses in apple during storage in two interrelated studies. Bioprocessed food-grade elicitors [water soluble chitosan oligosaccharide -(COS) and phenolic enriched oregano extracts-(OX)] were targeted as post-harvest dipping treatments (2 &amp; 4 g/ L) and compared with diphenylamine (DPA) (1 &amp; 2 g/L) to enhance phenolic-linked antioxidant and anti-diabetic (type 2 diabetes) relevant properties of Cortland apple during 3 months of storage (4°C). The selection of bio-elicitors and respective doses were based on the foundations of the previous related study, which resulted in reduction of superficial scald of Cortland apple during storage. Apples sampled over 3 months as aqueous and ethanol (12%) extracts of peel and pulp were analyzed separately for total soluble phenolic content, phenolic profile, antioxidant activity, and glucose metabolism relevant α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme inhibitory activities using in vitro assay models. Enhanced soluble phenolic content and associated antioxidant activity were observed in ethanol (12%) extracts of apple peel with 4 g/L COS elicitor treatments after 2 and 3 months of storage. High chlorogenic acid and quercetin derivatives were found in peel extracts of Cortland apple, while pulp extracts had high chlorogenic and gallic acids. Additionally, high α-glucosidase enzyme inhibitory activity, which is relevant for managing post-prandial hyperglycemia of type 2 diabetes was also observed in bio-elicited apple peel and pulp extracts. Therefore, results of these two interrelated studies indicate that bioprocessed food grade elicitor such as OX and COS can be recruited as a novel tool to enhance protective phenolic responses for improving type 2 diabetes targeted food quality and post-harvest storage quality of apple.

Primary and Phenolic Metabolites Analyses, In Vitro Health-Relevant Bioactivity and Physical Characteristics of Purple Corn (Zea mays L.) Grown at Two Andean Geographical Locations

Purple corn (Zea mays L.) is native to the Andean region, but limited research has been performed about the potential metabolic variability when grown under Andean environmental conditions. This study was aimed at evaluating the phenolic and primary polar metabolites composition of purple corn (kernels and cobs) grown at two Peruvian Andean locations (lowland and highland) using targeted UHPLC (ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography) and untargeted GC-MS (gas chromatography mass spectrometry) metabolomic platforms, respectively. Changes in the physical characteristics and the in vitro bioactivity were also determined. Purple corn from the highland zone showed higher contents of ash, crude fiber, total phenolic contents, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) antioxidant capacity, and α-amylase inhibitory activity in kernels, whereas increased levels of flavonoids (anthocyanins and quercetin derivatives) and ABTS [2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)] antioxidant capacity were observed in cobs in comparison to lowland samples. No effect of the Andean location was found on the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity relevant for hyperglycemia management, while yield-linked physical characteristics were high in purple corn grown at the lowland zone. Polar primary metabolites related to the carbohydrate (monosaccharides, sucrose, and d-sorbitol), amino acid (valine and alanine), and tricarboxylic acid cycle (succinic, fumaric, and aconitic acid) metabolism were higher in highland purple corn (cob and kernel) likely due to abiotic stress factors from the highland environment. This study provides the foundation for further breeding improvements at Andean locations.

Neuroprotective Potential of Non-Digestible Oligosaccharides: An Overview of Experimental Evidence

Non-digestible oligosaccharides (NDOs) from dietary sources have the potential as prebiotics for neuroprotection. Globally, diverse populations suffering from one or the other forms of neurodegenerative disorders are on the rise, and NDOs have the potential as supportive complementary therapeutic options against these oxidative-linked disorders. Elevated levels of free radicals cause oxidative damage to biological molecules like proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids associated with various neurological disorders. Therefore, investigating the therapeutic or prophylactic potential of prebiotic bioactive molecules such as NDOs as supplements for brain and cognitive health has merits. Few prebiotic NDOs have shown promise as persuasive therapeutic solutions to counter oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals directly or indirectly. Furthermore, they are also known to modulate through brain-derived neurotrophic factors through direct and indirect mechanisms conferring neuroprotective and neuromodulating benefits. Specifically, NDOs such as fructo-oligosaccharides, xylo-oligosaccharides, isomalto-oligosaccharides, manno-oligosaccharides, pectic-oligosaccharides, and similar oligosaccharides positively influence the overall health via various mechanisms. Increasing evidence has suggested that the beneficial role of such prebiotic NDOs is not only directed towards the colon but also distal organs including the brain. Despite the wide applications of these classes of NDOs as health supplements, there is limited understanding of the possible role of these NDOs as neuroprotective therapeutics. This review provides important insights into prebiotic NDOs, their source, and production with special emphasis on existing direct and indirect evidence of their therapeutic potential in neuroprotection.

Improving Health Targeted Food Quality of Blackberry: Pear Fruit Synergy Using Lactic Acid Bacterial Fermentation

Blackberry and pear are rich in human health protective phenolic bioactives with high antioxidant activity. These fruits are relevant dietary targets to counter chronic oxidative stress-linked diseases, such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). Due to high perishability, the human health relevant bioactive qualities of such fruits deteriorate during postharvest storage and processing. By improving stability and bioavailability of nutritionally relevant phenolic bioactives during post-harvest stages, effective integration of blackberry and pear as dietary support strategies can be targeted for T2D benefits. Solutions to bioactive quality loss of fruits can be achieved by advancing bioprocessing strategy integrating compatible fruit synergy and beneficial lactic acid bacteria (LAB) based fermentation. This approach was targeted to enhance high levels of phenolic bioactive-linked health quality of blackberry (Rubus spp.) integrated with pear (Pyrus communis) at a ratio of 30:70, which was optimized previously based on potential synergistic effects. The aim of this study was to recruit beneficial LAB such as Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum to bioprocess previously optimized blackberry: pear synergies to improve phenolic bioactive-linked T2D benefits. Essential health-targeted food quality during bioprocessing was assessed based on total soluble phenolic content, phenolic compound profile, total antioxidant activity, anti-hyperglycemic property relevant α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme inhibitory, and anti-hypertensive relevant angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activities using in vitro assay models. Additionally, potential inhibitory activity of fermented fruit extracts against pathogenic Helicobacter pylori, the common bacterial ulcer pathogen was also investigated. Overall, improvement in the retention and stability of phenolic bioactive content in 30:70 blackberry: pear combination, as well as in 100% juice of both fruit extracts were observed following fermentation. Furthermore, enhanced antioxidant activity, anti-hyperglycemic property relevant α-glucosidase, and anti-hypertensive property relevant ACE enzyme inhibitory activities were also observed in fermented extracts of 30:70 blackberry: pear synergy. Among the substrates only fermentation of 100% blackberry with LAB resulted in inhibitory activity against H. pylori. These results provide the biochemical rationale to develop blackberry: pear fruit synergy and beneficial LAB-based fermentation to improve T2D relevant health benefits while also potentially improving keeping quality.

Prevalence and Characterization of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Antibiotic-Resistant Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae in Ready-to-Eat Street Foods

As the global urban populations increase with rapid migration from rural areas, ready-to-eat (RTE) street foods are posing food safety challenges where street foods are prepared with less structured food safety guidelines in small and roadside outlets. The increased presence of extended-spectrum-β-lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria in street foods is a significant risk for human health because of its epidemiological significance. Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae have become important and dangerous foodborne pathogens globally for their relevance to antibiotic resistance. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the potential burden of antibiotic-resistant E. coli and K. pneumoniae contaminating RTE street foods and to assess the microbiological quality of foods in a typical emerging and growing urban suburb of India where RTE street foods are rapidly establishing with public health implications. A total of 100 RTE food samples were collected of which, 22.88% were E. coli and 27.12% K. pneumoniae. The prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae was 25.42%, isolated mostly from chutneys, salads, paani puri, and chicken. Antimicrobial resistance was observed towards cefepime (72.9%), imipenem (55.9%), cefotaxime (52.5%), and meropenem (16.9%) with 86.44% of the isolates with MAR index above 0.22. Among β-lactamase encoding genes, bla_TEM (40.68%) was the most prevalent followed by bla_CTX (32.20%) and bla_SHV (10.17%). bla_NDM gene was detected in 20.34% of the isolates. This study indicated that contaminated RTE street foods present health risks to consumers and there is a high potential of transferring multi-drug-resistant bacteria from foods to humans and from person to person as pathogens or as commensal residents of the human gut leading to challenges for subsequent therapeutic treatments.

Elicitation of Stress-Induced Phenolic Metabolites for Antimicrobial Applications against Foodborne Human Bacterial Pathogens

Foodborne bacterial pathogens in consumed foods are major food safety concerns worldwide, leading to serious illness and even death. An exciting strategy is to use novel phenolic compounds against bacterial pathogens based on recruiting the inducible metabolic responses of plant endogenous protective defense against biotic and abiotic stresses. Such stress-inducible phenolic metabolites have high potential to reduce bacterial contamination, and particularly improve safety of plant foods. The stimulation of plant protective response by inducing biosynthesis of stress-inducible phenolics with antimicrobial properties is among the safe and effective strategies that can be targeted for plant food safety and human gut health benefits. Metabolically driven elicitation with physical, chemical, and microbial elicitors has shown significant improvement in the biosynthesis of phenolic metabolites with antimicrobial properties in food and medicinal plants. Using the above rationale, this review focuses on current advances and relevance of metabolically driven elicitation strategies to enhance antimicrobial phenolics in plant food models for bacterial-linked food safety applications. Additionally, the specific objective of this review is to explore the potential role of redox-linked pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) regulation for enhancing biosynthesis of stress-inducible antibacterial phenolics in elicited plants, which are relevant for wider food safety and human health benefits.

Phenolic Bioactives From Plant-Based Foods for Glycemic Control

Plant-based foods containing phenolic bioactives have human health protective functions relevant for combating diet and lifestyle-influenced chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes (T2D). The molecular structural features of dietary phenolic bioactives allow antioxidant functions relevant for countering chronic oxidative stress-induced metabolic breakdown commonly associated with T2D. In addition to antioxidant properties, phenolic bioactives of diverse plant foods have therapeutic functional activities such as improving insulin sensitivity, reducing hepatic glucose output, inhibiting activity of key carbohydrate digestive enzymes, and modulating absorption of glucose in the bloodstream, thereby subsequently improving post-prandial glycemic control. These therapeutic functional properties have direct implications and benefits in the dietary management of T2D. Therefore, plant-based foods that are rich in phenolic bioactives are excellent dietary sources of therapeutic targets to improve overall glycemic control by managing chronic hyperglycemia and chronic oxidative stress, which are major contributing factors to T2D pathogenesis. However, in studies with diverse array of plant-based foods, concentration and composition of phenolic bioactives and their glycemic control relevant bioactivity can vary widely between different plant species, plant parts, and among different varieties/genotypes due to the different environmental and growing conditions, post-harvest storage, and food processing steps. This has allowed advances in innovative strategies to screen and optimize whole and processed plant derived foods and their ingredients based on their phenolic bioactive linked antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic properties for their effective integration into T2D focused dietary solutions. In this review, different pre-harvest and post-harvest strategies and factors that influence phenolic bioactive-linked antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic properties in diverse plant derived foods and derivation of extracts with therapeutic potential are highlighted and discussed. Additionally, novel bioprocessing strategies to enhance bioavailability and bioactivity of phenolics in plant-derived foods targeting optimum glycemic control and associated T2D therapeutic benefits are also advanced.

Bilberry Anthocyanins Ameliorate NAFLD by Improving Dyslipidemia and Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a manifestation of metabolic syndrome closely linked to dyslipidemia and gut microbiome dysbiosis. Bilberry anthocyanins (BA) have been reported to have preventive effects against metabolic syndrome. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of BA in a Western diet (WD)-induced mouse model. The results revealed that supplementation with BA attenuated the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), fat content in liver, 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) caused by WD. Furthermore, gut microbiota characterized by 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that BA reduced remarkably the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) and modified gut microbiome. In particular, BA increased the relative abundance of g_Akkermansia and g_Parabacteroides. Taken together, our data demonstrated that BA might ameliorate WD-induced NAFLD by attenuating dyslipidemia and gut microbiome dysbiosis.

Microbial Community Dynamics During the Non-filamentous Fungi Growth-Based Fermentation Process of Miang, a Traditional Fermented Tea of North Thailand and Their Product Characterizations

Miang, a traditional fermented tea leaf (Camellia sinensis var. assamica) consumed in northern Thailand, was simulated in laboratory conditions using non-filamentous fungi process (NFP) and microbial community was periodically investigated for over 6 months of fermentation by both culture-dependent and -independent techniques. The viable cell numbers of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), yeast, and Bacillus enumerated by the culture-dependent technique markedly surged over 3 days of initial fermentation and then smoothly declined by the end of fermentation. LAB were found as the main microbial population throughout the fermentation period followed by yeast and Bacillus. High-throughput sequencing of microbial community during fermentation revealed that Firmicutes (86.9-96.0%) and Proteobacteria (4.0-12.4%) were the dominant bacterial phyla, whereas Ascomycota was found to be the main fungal phylum with an abundance of over 99% in the fungal community. The dominant bacterial family was Lactobacillaceae (39.7-79.5%) followed by Acetobacteraceae, Enterobacteriaceae, Bacillaceae, Aeromonadaceae, Staphylococcaceae, Moraxellaceae, Clostridiaceae, Exiguobacteraceae, Streptococcaceae, and Halomonadaceae. Meanwhile, the main fungal family was incertae sedis Saccharomycetales (75.6-90.5%) followed by Pichiaceae, Pleosporaceae, Botryosphaeriaceae, Davidiellaceae, Mycosphaerellaceae, and Saccharomycodaceae. In addition, Lactobacillus (29.2-77.2%) and Acetobacter (3.8-22.8%), and the unicellular fungi, Candida (72.5-89.0%) and Pichia (8.1-14.9%), were the predominant genera during the fermentation process. The profiles of physical and chemical properties such as Miang texture, pH, organic acids, polysaccharide-degrading enzyme activities, and bioactive compounds have rationally indicated the microbial fermentation involvement. β-Mannanase and pectinase were assumed to be the key microbial enzymes involved in the Miang fermentation process. Total tannin and total polyphenol contents were relatively proportional to the antioxidant activity. Lactic acid and butyric acid reached maximum of 50.9 and 48.9 mg/g dry weight (dw) at 9 and 63 days of fermentation, respectively. This study provided essential information for deeper understanding of the Miang fermentation process based on the chemical and biological changes during production.

Food Diversity and Indigenous Food Systems to Combat Diet-Linked Chronic Diseases

Improving food and nutritional diversity based on the diversity of traditional plant-based foods is an important dietary strategy to address the challenges of rapidly emerging diet- and lifestyle-linked noncommunicable chronic diseases (NCDs) of indigenous communities worldwide. Restoration of native ecosystems, revival of traditional food crop cultivation, and revival of traditional knowledge of food preparation, processing, and preservation are important steps to build dietary support strategies against an NCD epidemic of contemporary indigenous communities. Recent studies have indicated that many traditional plant-based foods of Native Americans provide a rich source of human health-relevant bioactive compounds with diverse health benefits. Based on this rationale of health benefits of traditional plant-based foods, the objective of this review is to present a state-of-the-art comprehensive framework for ecologically and culturally relevant sustainable strategies to restore and integrate the traditional plant food diversity of Native Americans to address the NCD challenges of indigenous and wider nonindigenous communities worldwide.

Metabolic stimulation of phenolic biosynthesis and antioxidant enzyme response in dark germinated barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) sprouts using bioprocessed elicitors

Sprouting and seed elicitor treatments stimulate the biosynthesis of health relevant phenolic bioactives in plants partly by upregulating proline-associated pentose phosphate pathway (PAPPP). This study investigated the upregulation of PAPPP-linked and antioxidant enzyme associated metabolic responses in elicitor-treated barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) sprouts previously established with stimulation of health relevant phenolic bioactives. Barley seeds were treated with bioprocessed elicitors marine protein hydrolysates (GroPro®, GP) and soluble chitosan oligosaccharide and germinated under dark conditions. Upregulation of PAPPP and subsequent stimulation of phenolic biosynthesis and antioxidant enzyme responses were monitored at day 2, 4, and 6 of sprouting. High PAPPP-linked antioxidant enzyme responses were observed at early stages of germination with selected doses of GP treatments, especially in cv. Pinnacle. Total soluble phenolic content remained at higher level, while guaiacol peroxidase activity increased over the course of sprouting indicating increased phenolic polymerization to support structural needs of sprouts.

Evaluation of phenolic antioxidant-linked in vitro bioactivity of Peruvian corn (Zea mays L.) diversity targeting for potential management of hyperglycemia and obesity

Peruvian corn biodiversity is one of the highest in the world and may represent an important natural source of health relevant phenolic bioactive compounds whose potential needs to be investigated. This study investigated twenty-two Peruvian corn samples corresponding to five corn races (Arequipeño, Cabanita, Kculli, Granada and Coruca) in relation to their total phenolic contents (TPC), anthocyanin contents, Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) phenolic profiles and antioxidant capacity (ABTS and ORAC methods). Subsequently using both free and cell-wall bound phenolic fractions their health relevance targeting hyperglycemia (α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition) and obesity (lipase inhibition) potentials was evaluated using in vitro assay models. Antioxidant capacity and TPC were high in bound fractions from yellow-colored races in contrast to the purple-colored race (Kculli) which had high TPC (mainly anthocyanins) and antioxidant capacity in the free form. The major phenolic acids detected by UPLC were ferulic and p-coumaric acids. High α-glucosidase (32.5-76.1%, 25 mg sample dose) and moderate α-amylase inhibitory activities (13.6-29.0%, 250 mg sample dose) were found in all free fractions, but only samples from the Kculli race had lipase inhibitory activity (58.45-92.16%, 12.5 mg sample dose). Principal component analysis revealed that the variability of data was affected by the race and the α-glucosidase and lipase inhibitory activities positively correlated with anthocyanins and antioxidant capacity. Some accessions of Kculli, Granada and Cabanita races are promising for future breeding strategies focused on the development of improved corn varieties targeted for the design of functional foods relevant for hyperglycemia and obesity prevention.

Nutritional biotransformation in traditional fermented tea (Miang) from north Thailand and its impact on antioxidant and antimicrobial activities

Miang is a traditional fermented tea made from fermentation of Assam tea leaves with mixed microbial culture involving lactic acid bacteria and yeast. Miang has important bioactive benefits such as antioxidant and antimicrobial activity with relevance to health benefits. Miang is categorized into two processes; filamentous fungi growth-based (FFP) and non-filamentous fungi-based (NFP) process, depending on area of production. Further, Miang is also divided into 2 types; astringent Miang and sour Miang, depending on fermentation time. The aim of this research was to determine the important macronutrient biotransformation of Miang diversity under above processes and types and explore the impact on bioactive compounds relevant to antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. During fermentation, pH, total acid, nutritional components, total polyphenols (TP), total tannins (TT), total flavonoids (TF), total catechins (TC), antioxidant activity and antimicrobial activity were evaluated. Miang when fermented for longer sour Miang process compared to shorter time astringent Miang increased crude protein, fiber, and ash contents whereas soluble carbohydrates decreased. Even though TP, TT, TF and TC of sour Miang was lower, the overall antioxidant activity was higher than astringent Miang. This suggests that in addition to the phenolic compounds, other specific phenolics and substances such as biotransformed protein and fat could contribute to antioxidant properties. Additionally, Miang also contains antimicrobial activities against dental caries pathogenic bacteria Streptococcus mutans, gastrointestinal disease causing Vibrio cholerae and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium through likely effects of organic acids and phenolic compounds.

Changes in physico-chemical, astringency, volatile compounds and antioxidant activity of fresh and concentrated cashew apple juice fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum

Changes in physico-chemical qualities (pH, total acidity, total and reducing sugar, total phenolic and vitamin C), astringency compounds (condensed and hydrolysable tannin), antioxidant activities [2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radical] and flavor volatile compounds in Lactobacillus plantarum-fermented cashew-apple-juice (CAJ) and 11.4 °Bx concentrated-cashew-apple-juice (CCAJ) was investigated. Total phenolics remained unchanged throughout fermentation period, whereas condensed tannins increased and hydrolysable tannins decreased indicating reduced astringency compounds. Antioxidant activity based on both DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities marginally declined in some stages but overall were sustained during fermentation. Although the DPPH· radical based antioxidant activity of fermented CAJ was greater than that of fermented 11.4 °Bx CCAJ, a higher ABTS·+ radical scavenging activity was found in fermented 11.4 °Bx CCAJ, reflecting higher water soluble antioxidants. Results also indicated that DPPH· radical scavenging activity was positively correlated to vitamin-C and condensed tannins but not hydrolysable tannins. ABTS·+ radical scavenging activity was also positively correlated to condensed tannins and not hydrolysable tannins. The vitamin-C that increased during initial 12 h fermentation, decreased from 2516 to 2150 mg AAE/L at the end of 72 h fermentation. Fermented CAJ had a remarkable sweet aroma with a fruity note of two major compounds; 3-methyl-1-butanol (14.20 × 107) and 2,6-dimethyl-4-heptanol (14.76 × 107). The high phytochemicals and volatile compounds in fermented CAJ indicated that it could serve as a functional beverage with potential health benefits with reduced astringency due to lower hydrolysable tannins.

Natural preservatives for superficial scald reduction and enhancement of protective phenolic-linked antioxidant responses in apple during post-harvest storage

Superficial scald during post-harvest storage is a serious problem for long-term preservation and shelf-life of some apple and pear cultivars. Development of superficial scald and related physiological disorders such as enzymatic and non-enzymatic browning are associated in part with oxidative breakdown and redox imbalance. Therefore, targeting natural antioxidants from food-grade sources as post-harvest treatment to reduce superficial scald has merit. Such natural antioxidants can potentially counter oxidation-linked damages associated with superficial scald through stimulation of antioxidant enzyme responses and biosynthesis of less-oxidized phenolics involving protective redox-linked pathway such as proline-associated pentose phosphate pathway. Based on this rationale, bioprocessed food-grade oregano extract (OX) and soluble chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) were targeted as post-harvest treatment (2 and 4 g L-1) and were compared with diphenylamine (DPA) (1 and 2 g L-1) to reduce superficial scald and to improve protective phenolic-linked antioxidant responses in "Cortland" cultivar stored at 4 °C for 15 weeks. Overall, significant reduction of superficial scald and conjugated triene was observed with DPA and OX (2 g L-1) post-harvest treatments. Furthermore, stimulation of antioxidant enzyme responses such as increases in superoxide dismutase and guaiacol peroxidase activity was also observed, but was more evident with DPA and COS treatment. Overall, results of this study indicated that critical balance of less-oxidized phenolics and antioxidant enzymes and associated anabolic PPP-linked redox regulation is essential for improving post-harvest preservation and reduction of superficial scald in apple.

Kisspeptin neurones in the posterodorsal medial amygdala modulate sexual partner preference and anxiety in male mice

The posterodorsal medial amygdala (MePD) is a neural site in the limbic brain involved in regulating emotional and sexual behaviours. There is, however, limited information available on the specific neuronal cell type in the MePD functionally mediating these behaviours in rodents. The recent discovery of a significant kisspeptin neurone population in the MePD has raised interest in the possible role of kisspeptin and its cognate receptor in sexual behaviour. The present study therefore tested the hypothesis that the MePD kisspeptin neurone population is involved in regulating attraction towards opposite sex conspecifics, sexual behaviour, social interaction and the anxiety response by selectively stimulating these neurones using the novel pharmacosynthetic DREADDs (designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs) technique. Adult male Kiss-Cre mice received bilateral stereotaxic injections of a stimulatory DREADD viral construct (AAV-hSyn-DIO-hM3 D(Gq)-mCherry) targeted to the MePD, with subsequent activation by i.p. injection of clozapine-N-oxide (CNO). Socio-sexual behaviours were assessed in a counter-balanced fashion after i.p. injection of either saline or CNO (5 mg kg-1 ). Selective activation of MePD kisspeptin neurones by CNO significantly increased the time spent by male mice in investigating an oestrous female, as well as the duration of social interaction. Additionally, after CNO injection, the mice appeared less anxious, as indicated by a longer exploratory time in the open arms of the elevated plus maze. However, levels of copulatory behaviour were comparable between CNO and saline-treated controls. These data indicate that DREADD-induced activation of MePD kisspeptin neurones enhances both sexual partner preference in males and social interaction and also decreases anxiety, suggesting a key role played by MePD kisspeptin in sexual motivation and social behaviour.

Phenolic Composition and Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Activity of Free and Bound Phenolic Fractions from a Peruvian Purple Corn (Zea mays L.) Accession

Beneficial effects on overall gut health by phenolic bioactives-rich foods are potentially due to their modulation of probiotic gut bacteria and antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria. Based on this rationale, the effect of the free and bound phenolic fractions from a Peruvian purple corn accession AREQ-084 on probiotic lactic acid bacteria such as Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum and the gastric cancer-related pathogen Helicobacter pylori was evaluated. The free and bound phenolic composition was also determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography. Anthocyanins were the major phenolic compounds (310.04 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalents/100 g dry weight, DW) in the free phenolic fraction along with hydroxycinnamic acids such as p-coumaric acid derivatives, followed by caffeic and ferulic acid derivatives. The bound phenolic form had only hydroxycinnamic acids such as ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, and a ferulic acid derivative with ferulic acid being the major phenolic compound (156.30 mg/100 g DW). These phenolic compounds were compatible with beneficial probiotic lactic acid bacteria such as L. helveticus and B. longum as these bacteria were not inhibited by the free and bound phenolic fractions at 10 to 50 mg/mL and 10 mg/mL of sample doses, respectively. However, the pathogenic H. pylori was also not inhibited by both purple corn phenolic forms at same above sample doses. This study provides the preliminary base for the characterization of phenolic compounds of Peruvian purple corn biodiversity and its potential health benefits relevant to improving human gut health.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

This study provides insights that Peruvian purple corn accession AREQ-084 can be targeted as a potential source of health-relevant phenolic compounds such as anthocyanins along with hydroxycinnamic acids linked to its dietary fiber fraction. Additionally, these phenolic fractions did not affect the gut health associated beneficial bacteria nor the pathogenic H. pylori. Purple corn can be targeted for design of probiotic functional foods integrated with their anthocyanin linked-coloring properties.

Improving phenolic bioactive-linked anti-hyperglycemic functions of dark germinated barley sprouts (Hordeum vulgare L.) using seed elicitation strategy

Sprouts of cereal grains, such as barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), are a good source of beneficial phenolic bioactives. Such health relevant phenolic bioactives of cereal sprouts can be targeted to manage chronic hyperglycemia and oxidative stress commonly associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Therefore improving phenolic bioactives by stimulating plant endogenous defense responses such as protective pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) during sprouting has significant merit. Based on this metabolic rationale, this study aimed to enhance phenolic bioactives and associated antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic functions in dark germinated barley sprouts using exogenous elicitor treatments. Dark-germinated sprouts of two malting barley cultivars (Pinnacle and Celebration), treated with chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) and marine protein hydrolysate (GP), were evaluated. Total soluble phenolic content (TSP), phenolic acid profiles, total antioxidant activity (TA) and in vitro inhibitory activities of hyperglycemia relevant α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes of the dark germinated barley sprouts were evaluated at day 2, 4, and 6 post elicitor treatments. Overall, TSP content, TA, and α-amylase inhibitory activity of dark germinated barley sprouts decreased, while α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and gallic acid content increased from day 2 to day 6. Among barley cultivars, high phenolic antioxidant-linked anti-hyperglycemic bioactives were observed in Celebration. Furthermore, GP and COS seed elicitor treatments in selective doses improved T2D relevant phenolic-linked anti-hyperglycemic bioactives of barley spouts at day 6. Therefore, such seed elicitation approach can be strategically used to develop bioactive enriched functional food ingredients from cereal sprouts targeting chronic hyperglycemia and oxidative stress linked to T2D.

Rapid Screening of Natural Plant Extracts with Calcium Diacetate for Differential Effects Against Foodborne Pathogens and a Probiotic Bacterium

This study focused on advancing a rapid turbidimetric bioassay to screen antimicrobials using specific cocktails of targeted foodborne bacterial pathogens. Specifically, to show the relevance of this rapid screening tool, the antimicrobial potential of generally recognized as safe calcium diacetate (DAX) and blends with cranberry (NC) and oregano (OX) natural extracts was evaluated. Furthermore, the same extracts were evaluated against beneficial lactic acid bacteria. The targeted foodborne pathogens evaluated were Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus using optimized initial cocktails (∼10⁸ colony-forming unit/mL) containing strains isolated from human food outbreaks. Of all extracts evaluated, 0.51% (w/v) DAX in ethanol was the most effective against all four pathogens. However, DAX when reduced to 0.26% and with added blends from ethanol extractions consisting of DAX:OX (3:1), slightly outperformed or was equal to same levels of DAX alone. Subculture of wells in which no growth occurred after 1 week indicated that all water and ethanol extracts were bacteriostatic against the pathogens tested. All the targeted antimicrobials had no effect on the probiotic organism Lactobacillus plantarum. The use of such rapid screening methods combined with the use of multistrain cocktails of targeted foodborne pathogens from outbreaks will allow rapid large-scale screening of antimicrobials and enable further detailed studies in targeted model food systems.

Cardiomyoplasty

The authors present their experience with cardiomyoplasty in 25 patients. They describe the early and late results, control of hemodynamic changes, and the optimal regimen for stimulation of the muscular graft.

In vitro and in vivo anticancer effects of mevalonate pathway modulation on human cancer cells

Background:

The increasing usage of statins (the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors) has revealed a number of unexpected beneficial effects, including a reduction in cancer risk.

Methods:

We investigated the direct anticancer effects of different statins approved for clinical use on human breast and brain cancer cells. We also explored the effects of statins on cancer cells using in silico simulations.

Results:

In vitro studies showed that cerivastatin, pitavastatin, and fluvastatin were the most potent anti-proliferative, autophagy inducing agents in human cancer cells including stem cell-like primary glioblastoma cell lines. Consistently, pitavastatin was more effective than fluvastatin in inhibiting U87 tumour growth in vivo. Intraperitoneal injection was much better than oral administration in delaying glioblastoma growth. Following statin treatment, tumour cells were rescued by adding mevalonate and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate. Knockdown of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthetase-1 also induced strong cell autophagy and cell death in vitro and reduced U87 tumour growth in vivo. These data demonstrate that statins main effect is via targeting the mevalonate synthesis pathway in tumour cells.

Conclusions:

Our study demonstrates the potent anticancer effects of statins. These safe and well-tolerated drugs need to be further investigated as cancer chemotherapeutics in comprehensive clinical studies.

Peginterferon and ribavirin for treatment of recurrent hepatitis C disease in HCV-HIV coinfected liver transplant recipients

Achievement of a sustained virologic response (SVR) with antiviral therapy significantly improves graft survival in hepatitis C virus (HCV) monoinfected liver transplant (LT) patients. Risks and benefits of HCV therapy in HCV-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfected LT recipients are not well established. Among 89 HCV-HIV LT recipients in the HIVTR cohort, 39 (23% Black, 79% genotype 1, 83% fibrosis stage ≤ 1) were treated with peginterferon-a2a or a2b plus ribavirin for a median 363 days (14-1373). On intent-to-treat basis, 22% (95% CI: 10-39) and 14% (95% CI: 5-30) achieved an end-of-treatment response (EOTR) and SVR, respectively. By per-protocol analysis (completed 48 weeks of therapy ± dose reductions), 42% and 26% had EOTR and SVR, respectively. Severe adverse events occurred in 85%, with 26% hospitalized with infections and 13% developing acute rejection. Early discontinuations and dose reductions occurred in 38% and 82%, respectively, despite use of growth factors in 85%. Eighteen of 39 treated patients (46%) subsequently died/had graft loss, with 10 (26%) attributed to recurrent HCV. In conclusion, SVR rates are low and tolerability is poor in HCV-HIV coinfected transplant recipients treated with peginterferon and ribavirin. These results highlight the critical need for better tolerated and more efficacious HCV therapies for HCV-HIV coinfected transplant recipients.

Metabolic Stimulation of Plant Phenolics for Food Preservation and Health

Plant phenolics as secondary metabolites are key to a plant's defense response against biotic and abiotic stresses. These phytochemicals are also increasingly relevant to food preservation and human health in terms of chronic disease management. Phenolic compounds from different food crops with different chemical structures and biological functions have the potential to act as natural antioxidants. Plant-based human foods are rich with these phenolic phytochemicals and can be used effectively for food preservation and bioactive enrichments through metabolic stimulation of key pathways. Phenolic metabolites protect against microbial degradation of plant-based foods during postharvest storage. Phenolics not only provide biotic protection but also help to counter biochemical and physical food deteriorations and to enhance shelf life and nutritional quality. This review summarizes the role of metabolically stimulated plant phenolics in food preservation and their impact on the prevention of oxidative stress–induced human diseases.