Search Results (1,916)

Sea buckthorn is a vital woody oil species valued for its role in soil conservation and its bioactive seed oil, which is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and other compounds. However, low seed oil content and small seed size are the main bottlenecks restricting the development and utilization of sea buckthorn. In this study, we tested the seed oil content and seed size of 12 sea buckthorn cultivars and identified the key genes and transcription factors involved in seed development and lipid biosynthesis via the integration of UID RNA-seq (Unique Identifiers, UID), WGCNA (weighted gene co-expression network analysis) and qRT-PCR (quantitative real-time PCR) analysis. The results revealed five cultivars (CY02, CY11, CY201309, CY18, CY21) with significantly higher oil contents and five cultivars (CY10, CY201309, CY18, CY21, CY27) with significantly heavier seeds. A total of 10,873 genes were significantly differentially expressed between the S1 and S2 seed developmental stages of the 12 cultivars. WGCNA was used to identify five modules related to seed oil content and seed weight/size, and 417 candidate genes were screened from these modules. Among them, multiple hub genes and transcription factors were identified; for instance, ATP synthase, ATP synthase subunit D and Acyl carrier protein 1 were related to seed development; plastid–lipid-associated protein, acyltransferase-like protein, and glycerol-3-phosphate 2-O-acyltransferase 6 were involved in lipid biosynthesis; and transcription factors DOF1.2, BHLH137 and ERF4 were associated with seed enlargement and development. These findings provide crucial insights into the genetic regulation of seed traits in sea buckthorn, offering targets for future breeding efforts aimed at improving oil yield and quality. Full article

The geochemistry of the fatty acids in the modern sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea is still poorly studied, and studies on the geochemistry of the fatty acids in relatively long-core sediment samples are lacking. Thus, the fatty acids in the core sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea were separated and identified to study their components and distribution characteristics, and the sources of organic matter and the early diagenetic evolution of the fatty acids in the sediments were discussed. The results show that saturated straight-chain fatty acids (methyl ester) have the highest content in the core sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea, which account for 83.89% of the total fatty acids (methyl ester). nC_16:0 is dominant, accounting for 30.48% of the n-saturated fatty acids (methyl ester). Unsaturated fatty acids (methyl ester) account for 7.59% of the total fatty acids (methyl ester). Binary unsaturated fatty acids (methyl ester) can only be detected in some samples, which are low in content and dominated by C_18:2. Based on the components and distribution of the fatty acids (methyl ester) in the core sediments in the Northern South Yellow Sea, combined with the characteristics of other lipid biomarker compounds, the actual geological background, and previous research results, it is considered that the sources of organic matter in the core sediments are marine–terrestrial mixed materials, with terrestrial materials dominating. The fatty acids’ (methyl ester) CPI, the relative content of short-chain saturated fatty acids (methyl ester), and the unsaturated fatty acids (methyl ester) in the core sediments show non-obvious variation as the burial depth increases, reflecting that the fatty acids in the core sediments are strongly degraded at the early diagenetic stage, and this degradation is controlled by various complicated factors. Full article

To enhance the effectiveness of sustainable preservation of modified corn wet distillers’ grains plus solubles (mcWDGS), various additives were tested under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. In Experiment I, the mcWDGS was stored under aerobic conditions for 5 days at 25 °C. Treatments included different organic acids applied at 0.3% or 0.6% of fresh matter (FM). In Experiment II, the mcWDGS was ensiled anaerobically for 8 weeks at 25 °C using organic acids, a commercial acid mixture, or a microbial inoculant at 0.2% FM. In aerobic conditions, the best preservability was achieved with propionic and formic acids at 0.6% FM, as indicated by the lowest temperature, pH, and microbial counts on days 3 and 5 (p ≤ 0.01). Under anaerobic storage, the highest lactic acid concentrations were recorded in the control, citric acid, and commercial acid mixture variants (p ≤ 0.01). Acetic acid levels were highest in the control (p ≤ 0.01). The highest NH3-N content was found in the formic acid variant and the lowest in the inoculant variant (p ≤ 0.01). Aerobic stability after ensiling was greatest in the control and propionic acid groups (p ≤ 0.01). Nutritional analysis showed that the citric acid group had the highest dry matter content (p ≤ 0.01), while the control group contained the most crude protein (p ≤ 0.01) and saturated fatty acids (p ≤ 0.05). The propionic acid and commercial acid mixture variants had the highest unsaturated fatty acids (p ≤ 0.05). Antioxidant capacity was also greatest in the control (p ≤ 0.01). In conclusion, mcWDGS can be effectively preserved aerobically with 0.6% FM of propionic or formic acid, and anaerobically via ensiling, even without additives. These findings support its potential as a stable and nutritious feed ingredient. Full article

Although the strawberry tree (A. unedo L.) has been long considered a neglected species of the Mediterranean maquis, the valorization of its fruit production may enhance its socioeconomic value, especially in rural areas. In this study, strawberry trees from different Sicilian sites were investigated in terms of macronutrients, fatty acid (FA) composition, tocopherols, total phenols, carotenoids, and minerals. Sicilian berries were a good source of carbohydrates (mainly fructose, glucose and sucrose) and dietary fiber. They were low in fat; however, the FA composition revealed the abundance of unsaturated FAs over saturated FAs and an advantageous n-6/n-3 ratio. Additionally, Sicilian berries showed an inversed linoleic/α-linolenic acid ratio with respect to berries from other Mediterranean regions, that had previously investigated in literature. This evidence suggests that this ratio may have a chemotaxonomic relevance. Considering antioxidants, the fruits had levels of tocopherols, particularly α-tocopherol, total phenols and carotenoids similar to those of certain commercial fruits. Precious amounts of minerals, such as Ca, K, Zn and Fe were also determined. Interestingly, berries harvested near a Sicilian volcanic area had higher levels of minerals, as well as tocopherols, phenols and carotenoids, than fruits from other Sicilian sites, thereby advancing the hypothesis that fruits from volcanic areas may have a superior nutritional value. Overall, data from this study elaborated by a proper statistical analysis revealed that the geographical origin was a relevant variable to consider in the reliable study of this fruit species. Full article

Tacrolimus (TAC)-induced chronic nephrotoxicity (TAC nephrotoxicity) remains a major contributor to late allograft dysfunction in kidney transplant recipients. Although detailed mechanisms remain incompletely understood, our previous metabolomic studies revealed disruptions in carnitine-related and redox pathways, suggesting impaired mitochondrial β-oxidation of fatty acids. To further characterize metabolic alterations associated with this condition, we conducted an untargeted lipidomic analysis of renal tissues using a murine model of TAC nephrotoxicity. TAC (1 mg/kg/day) or saline was subcutaneously administered to male ICR mice for 28 days, and kidney tissues were harvested for comprehensive lipidomic profiling. Lipidomic analysis was performed with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (p < 0.05, n = 5/group). Triacylglycerols (TGs) were the predominant lipid class identified. TAC-treated mice exhibited reduced levels of unsaturated TG species with low carbon numbers, whereas TGs with higher carbon numbers and various degrees of unsaturation were increased. All detected TGs containing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) showed an increasing trend in TAC-treated kidneys. Although accumulation of polyunsaturated TGs has been previously observed in chronic kidney disease, the preferential increase in DHA-containing TGs appears to be a unique feature of TAC-induced nephrotoxicity. These results suggest that DHA-enriched TGs may serve as a metabolic signature of TAC nephrotoxicity and offer new insights into its pathophysiology. Full article

Artificial gynogenesis is an essential technique for aquaculture breeding. Fertile offspring of the WuLi carp (Cyprinus carpio var. Quanzhounensis, 2n = 100, WLC) were successfully produced via gynogenesis using ultraviolet-irradiated sperm from the blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala, 2n = 48, BSB). As anticipated, gonadal section examination confirmed that all gynogenetic WuLi carp (2n = 100, GWB) were female. To investigate whether paternal DNA fragments from BSB were integrated into the GWB genome, comparative analyses of morphological traits, DNA content, chromosomal numbers, 5S rDNA sequences, microsatellite DNA markers, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), growth performance and nutritional composition were systematically conducted between GWB and maternal WLC. The results revealed pronounced maternal inheritance patterns across morphological characteristics, DNA quantification, chromosomal configurations, 5S rDNA sequences and FISH signals, while microsatellite detection unequivocally confirmed paternal BSB DNA fragment integration into the GWB genome. Remarkably, GWB demonstrated significantly superior growth performance and elevated unsaturated fatty acid content relative to the maternal line. This approach not only addressed germplasm degradation in WLC but also provided valuable theoretical foundations for breeding programs in this commercially significant species. Full article

Background/Objective: Pharmacological interventions often exert systemic effects beyond their primary targets, underscoring the need for a comprehensive evaluation of their metabolic impact. Etodolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that alleviates pain, fever, and inflammation by inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), thereby reducing prostaglandin synthesis. While its pharmacological effects are well known, the broader metabolic impact and potential mechanisms underlying improved clinical outcomes remain underexplored. Untargeted metabolomics, which profiles the metabolome without prior selection, is an emerging tool in clinical pharmacology for elucidating drug-induced metabolic changes. In this study, untargeted metabolomics was applied to investigate metabolic changes following a single oral dose of etodolac in healthy male volunteers. By analyzing serial blood samples over time, we identified endogenous metabolites whose concentrations were positively or inversely associated with the drug’s plasma levels. This approach provides a window into both therapeutic pathways and potential off-target effects, offering a promising strategy for early-stage drug evaluation and multi-target discovery using minimal human exposure. Methods: Thirty healthy participants received a 400 mg dose of Etodolac. Plasma samples were collected at five time points: pre-dose, before Cmax, at Cmax, after Cmax, and 36 h post-dose (n = 150). Samples underwent LC/MS-based untargeted metabolomics profiling and pharmacokinetic analysis. A total of 997 metabolites were significantly dysregulated between the pre-dose and Cmax time points, with 875 upregulated and 122 downregulated. Among these, 80 human endogenous metabolites were identified as being influenced by Etodolac. Results: A total of 17 metabolites exhibited time-dependent changes closely aligned with Etodolac’s pharmacokinetic profile, while 27 displayed inverse trends. Conclusions: Etodolac influences various metabolic pathways, including arachidonic acid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, and the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids. These selective metabolic alterations complement its COX-2 inhibition and may contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects. This study provides new insights into Etodolac’s metabolic impact under healthy conditions and may inform future therapeutic strategies targeting inflammation. Full article

Low-commercial-value natural pistachios (broken, closed, or immature) can be revalorised through oil extraction, obtaining a high-quality oil and partially defatted flour as by-product. This study evaluated the techno-functional and nutritional properties of the flours obtained by hydraulic press (HP) and single-screw press (SSP) systems, combined with pretreatment at 25 °C and 60 °C. The extraction method significantly influenced flour’s characteristics, underscoring the need to tailor processing conditions to the specific technological requirements of each food application. HP-derived flours presented lighter colour, greater tocopherol content, and higher water absorption capacity (up to 2.75 g/g), suggesting preservation of hydrophilic proteins. SSP-derived flours showed higher concentration of protein (44 g/100 g), fibre (12 g/100 g), and minerals, and improved emulsifying properties, enhancing their suitability for emulsified products. Pretreatment at 25 °C enhanced functional properties such as swelling power (~7.0 g/g) and water absorption index (~5.7 g/g). The SSP system achieved the highest oil extraction yield, with no significant effect of pretreatment temperature. The oils extracted showed high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid (~48% of ω-9), highlighting their nutritional and industrial value. The findings support the valorisation of pistachio oil extraction by-products as functional food ingredients, offering a promising strategy for reducing food waste and promoting circular economy approaches in the agri-food sector. Full article

The incorporation of phase change material (PCM) can enhance wall thermal performance and indoor thermal comfort, but practical applications still face challenges related to high costs and potential leakage issues. In this study, a novel dual-biomass-based shape-stabilized PCM (Bio-SSPCM) was proposed, wherein waste cooking fat and waste reed straw were, respectively, incorporated as the PCM substance and supporting material. The waste fat (lard) consisted of both saturated and unsaturated fatty acid glycerides, exhibiting a melting point about 21.2–41.1 °C and a melting enthalpy value of 40 J/g. Reed straw was carbonized to form a sustainable porous biochar supporting matrix, which was used for the vacuum adsorption of waste fat. The results demonstrate that the as-prepared dual-Bio-SSPCM exhibited excellent thermal performance, characterized by a latent heat capacity of 25.4 J/g. With the addition of 4 wt% of expanded graphite (EG), the thermal conductivity of the composite PCM reached 1.132 W/(m·K), which was 5.4 times higher than that of the primary lard. The thermal properties of the Bio-SSPCM were characterized using an analog T-history method. The results demonstrated that the dual-Bio-SSPCM exhibited exceptional and rapid heat storage and exothermic capabilities. The dual-Bio-SSPCM, prepared from waste cooking fat and reed straw, can be considered as environmentally friendly construction material for energy storage in line with the principles of the circular economy. Full article

Maximizing the efficient utilization of critical apatite resources through flotation necessitates the exploration of effective and innovative collectors. This study investigates the potential of a fatty acid mixture (FAM) synthesized from saturated palmitic and stearic acids, monounsaturated oleic and palmitoleic acids, and polyunsaturated linoleic acid. The saponified collector FAM and the depressant sodium alginate (NaAl) achieved a direct flotation of apatite from calcite and quartz (97% apatite, 10% calcite, and 7% quartz). The flotation performance with the tested combination exhibited a highly effective enrichment of apatite, mainly from calcite, which aligns with the surface chemistry assessments. Adsorption tests and zeta potential measurements confirmed the micro-flotation results. They provided compelling evidence of a chemisorption interaction between Ca²⁺ sites on calcite and the carboxyl and hydroxyl groups of NaAl. FTIR analyses suggested a reaction between the apatite surface and the carboxyl groups of saturated and unsaturated acid groups in FAM, even those conditioned with NaAl before, facilitating the complex formation. Remarkably, the synergistic effect of the functional groups demonstrates dual functionality, serving as both a hydrophilic entity for calcite and a hydrophobic entity for apatite flotation. The universal mechanism unveils substantial potential for the extensive application of FAM within apatite flotation. Full article

Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) is a disease caused by the deposition of transthyretin-derived fibrils in the body. Despite extensive research conducted over the years, there are currently only four drugs available in clinical use to treat this condition, two of which are repurposed drugs used off-label. However, these treatments present several limitations; therefore, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic options. In this context, dietary supplements containing natural compounds capable of stabilizing the transthyretin (TTR) protein could represent a promising approach to contrast the disease progression, potentially supporting the therapeutic effects of the aforementioned drugs. In light of this, the present review highlights and analyzes the natural compounds that have most recently been reported in the literature as TTR stabilizers. In particular, the studies elucidating the potential of these compounds in the treatment of ATTR, along with the available crystallographic data explaining their binding mode to TTR, are reported. Overall, although the use of natural compounds as supplements shows promise in managing ATTR, further research is still needed to explore its feasibility and confirm its effectiveness. Hopefully, this work will help shed light on these issues and serve as a useful starting point for the development of new strategies to treat this disease. Full article

Camellia vietnamensis grows in a unique tropical environment, and its seed oil has a rich aroma. The content of unsaturated fatty acids in C. vietnamensis oil is up to 90%, which can regulate human lipid metabolism and prevent cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Compared with olive oil, C. vietnamensis oil has a higher content of unsaturated fatty acids. This study used eleven C. vietnamensis cultivars cultivated on Hainan Island. Among the 11 cultivars, “Boao 1” had fruits with the largest vertical diameter of 45.05 mm, while “Haida 1” had fruits with the largest horizontal diameter, single-fruit weight, and fresh 100-grain weight of 53.5 mm, 70.6 g, and 479.01 g, respectively. “Boao 3” had an acid value and peroxide value of 1.59 mg/g and 3.50 mmol/kg, respectively, and its saponification value content was 213.18 mg/g. “Boao 5” had the highest iodine value, 101.86 g/100 g, among the 11 cultivars. The content of unsaturated fatty acids in the seed oil of 11 cultivars ranged from 84.87% to 87.38%. The qRT-PCR results confirmed that “Boao 3” had a higher content of flavonoids and fatty acids than other cultivars. The comprehensive analysis of physiological and biochemical indices showed that the top five cultivars were “Haida 1”, “Boao 3”, “Haida 2”, “Boao 1”, and “Boao 5”. These five cultivars were suitable for large-scale cultivation in tropical regions, such as Hainan Island. This study provided a theoretical basis for the breeding of C. vietnamensis cultivars in tropical regions. Full article

The replacement of animal fat with unsaturated lipid sources in processed meats enhances nutritional value but introduces challenges regarding oxidative stability and sensory acceptability. In this study, the effects of replacing pork back fat with pre-emulsified walnut, linseed, or algal oils on the proximate composition, fatty acid profile, nutritional indices, lipid oxidation, and sensory properties of chicken frankfurters were investigated. Four formulations were prepared: a control group (25% pork fat) and three groups that were completely reformulated using oil emulsions (ratio inulin/water/oil 1:2:1). The fat substitute significantly reduced total fat, SFA, cholesterol (up to 30%), and calorie density, while Ʃn-3 fatty acids were enriched (p < 0.05). The linseed oil samples had the highest levels of α-linolenic acid (47.53%), while the algal oil had the highest levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (10.98%) and docosahexaenoic acid (64.73%) and the most favourable Ʃn-6/Ʃn-3 ratio (p < 0.05). All reformulated groups showed significantly improved atherogenic and thrombogenic indices and increased hypocholesterolaemic/hypercholesterolaemic ratios, which reached 17.43 in the algal oil samples (p < 0.05). Lipid oxidation was increased in the linseed and algal oil treatments, with the walnut oil group showing moderate TBARS levels and minimal accumulation of secondary oxidation products. Principal component analysis revealed that walnut oil offered the most balanced compromise between nutritional improvement, oxidative stability and sensory acceptability. These findings support a healthier reformulation of meat products by identifying oil-based fat substitutes that improve nutritional value without compromising sensory quality, which is beneficial for both research and industry. Full article

Cereal-based plant beverages have gained attention as functional ingredients in bakery formulations, offering both nutritional and technological benefits. Replacing water with these beverages may improve the nutritional value of bread by increasing its fiber and unsaturated fatty acid content, while also introducing functional components that affect dough rheology and bread texture. This study examined the effects of substituting water with oat (BO), millet (BM), and spelt (BS) beverages in wheat bread formulations at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% levels. Thirteen bread variants were prepared: one control and four substitution levels for each of the three cereal-based beverages, using the straight dough method, with hydration adjusted according to farinograph results. Farinograph tests showed increased water absorption (up to 64.5% in BO100 vs. 56.9% in control) and improved dough stability (10.6 min in BS100). Specific bread volume increased, with BS75 reaching 3.52 cm³/g compared to 3.09 cm³/g in control. Moisture content remained stable during storage, and crumb hardness after 72 h was lowest in BO100 (9.5 N) and BS75 (11.5 N), indicating delayed staling. All bread variants received favorable sensory ratings, with average scores above 3.75 on a 5-point scale. The highest bread yield (149.8%) and lowest baking loss (10.9%) were noted for BS100. Although BO breads had slightly higher fat and energy content, their nutritional profile remained favorable due to unsaturated fatty acids. Overall, oat and spelt beverages demonstrated the greatest potential as functional water substitutes, improving dough handling, shelf-life, and sensory quality while maintaining consumer appeal. Full article

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis remain incurable. Current therapeutic strategies primarily focus on slowing disease progression, alleviating symptoms, and improving patients’ quality of life, including the management of comorbid conditions. Over the past few decades, the incidence of diagnosed neurodegenerative disorders has risen significantly. As the number of affected individuals continues to grow, so does the urgent need for effective treatments that can halt or mitigate the progression of these diseases. Among the most promising therapeutic resources are bioactive compounds derived from fungi. The high quality of proteins, polysaccharides, unsaturated fatty acids, triterpenoids, sterols, and secondary metabolites found in fungi have attracted growing interest from researchers across multiple disciplines. One intensively studied direction involves the use of naturally occurring fungi-derived nutraceuticals in the treatment of various diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions. This article provides an overview of recent findings on fungal compounds—such as phenolic compounds, carbohydrates, peptides and proteins, and lipids—that may have potential applications in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and the alleviation of their symptoms. Full article