Search Results (4,981)

Diet plays a fundamental role in maintaining human health, which has intensified scientific interest in bioactive food constituents and contributed to the development of functional foods. Polyphenols, one of the most important groups of plant secondary metabolites, are valued for their strong antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. Species belonging to the Rosaceae family, including Rosa, Crataegus, and Pyracantha, are recognized as promising sources of phenolic compounds, although their chemical profiles and antioxidant potential remain insufficiently characterized. The aim of this study was to quantitatively assess selected phenolic compounds in extracts obtained from ripe fruits of selected Rosaceae species and cultivars. The extracts were prepared using ultrasound-assisted solvent extraction, pressurized liquid extraction, and matrix solid-phase dispersion. The resulting samples were subsequently subjected to comprehensive analyses of their chemical composition and antioxidant capacity. These extraction techniques differ substantially in their operational principles and process parameters; notably, ultrasound-assisted solvent extraction and pressurized liquid extraction require more complex and tightly controlled conditions, whereas matrix solid-phase dispersion constitutes a comparatively simpler and less parameter-dependent approach. The results revealed distinct phenolic profiles among the examined species and confirmed the presence of compounds exhibiting strong antioxidant activity. Collectively, these findings broaden current knowledge of the phytochemical diversity present in Rosaceae fruits and underscore their potential as natural sources of bioactive constituents relevant to the development and formulation of functional food products. Full article

Male jelly fig (Ficus pumila L. var. awkeotsang) syconia are an underutilized by-product in Taiwan. This study evaluated male fig powder (0–2%, w/v) as a substrate for producing male fig-altered kombucha (FK) using a defined co-culture of Komagataeibacter xylinus and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Fermentation markedly reshaped FK metabolites. Glucuronic acid increased in a dose-associated manner, reaching 6.63 g/L in 2% FK, whereas vitamin C declined during fermentation but remained highest in 2% FK. Gallic acid increased and peaked at 0.5% FK (320.75 mg/L), while acetic and succinic acids showed formulation-dependent patterns; conversely, caffeine decreased in all male fig-containing groups. FK also exhibited concentration-dependent color divergence from the control at day 9 (ΔE* up to 17.81 at 2% FK). Numerical increases in DPPH and TPC were observed; however, no significant differences were detected among the treatments. Importantly, male fig supplementation substantially enhanced kombucha bacterial cellulose (KBC) yield (0.56 to 7.28 g/L from 0 to 2% FK) without compromising high water content (~96–99%) or swelling (~90–94%). FTIR confirmed retention of the cellulose backbone, SEM showed formulation-dependent fibril diameters, and TGA indicated higher early-stage thermal stability with dose-dependent shifts in main degradation behavior. Collectively, male figs can be valorized to produce FK with altered metabolite profiles and improved KBC productivity. Full article

Background and clinical significance: Scurvy, resulting from vitamin C deficiency, is rare in the 21st century, particularly in high-income settings. Its nonspecific presentation and ability to mimic a wide range of conditions make diagnosis incredibly challenging. Pseudovasculitic petechial lesions of the lower limbs may be misdiagnosed as systemic vasculitis, often leading to extensive investigations and delayed treatment. Case presentation: We report the case of a 45-year-old woman who presented with progressive lower limb pain, swelling, and vasculitis-like petechial rash with ecchymoses. Extensive investigations for autoimmune, infectious, malignant, and vascular causes, including skin biopsy, were unremarkable. A detailed dietary history revealed markedly restrictive intake. Characteristic dermatological findings, including perifollicular haemorrhage, ecchymoses and hair shaft abnormalities, raised suspicion for scurvy. Profoundly reduced serum ascorbic acid levels confirmed vitamin C deficiency. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of thorough dietary assessment, recognition of characteristic cutaneous features, and identification of risk factors such as restrictive eating patterns or chronic gastrointestinal symptoms. It underscores the need for a high index of clinical suspicion for scurvy, even in contemporary high-income settings. Early diagnosis and vitamin C supplementation can result in rapid clinical improvement and prevent avoidable morbidity. Full article

Exercise-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) are required for mitochondrial and hypertrophic adaptations, creating a practical trade-off: antioxidant strategies may support short-term performance and recovery yet blunt training signals when mis-timed or over-dosed. We performed a structured narrative review informed by transparent database searches of MEDLINE, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus (2000–2025), prioritizing human intervention studies and using mechanistic evidence to interpret plausibility. Evidence was mapped by antioxidant class, dose, timing, training modality, and context. Across trials, chronic high-dose vitamins C/E taken close to key sessions are most consistently associated with attenuation of redox-sensitive signaling, whereas food-first polyphenols and selected bioactives (e.g., tart cherry/anthocyanins, pomegranate, and curcumin) more often support recovery when positioned away from adaptation-critical workouts, without clear evidence of impaired training gains. N-acetylcysteine can acutely improve tolerance to repeated high-intensity exercise, but effects during prolonged training remain uncertain and appear context-dependent. We propose Redox-Adaptive Periodization, aligning antioxidant class, dose, and timing with the primary objective (adaptation vs. immediate readiness) and environmental constraints, and we outline methodological priorities to advance precision redox management. Full article

Kombucha is a fermented beverage produced using a symbiotic consortium of acetic acid bacteria and yeasts, often marketed for its health-promoting properties. However, probiotic bacteria in kombucha are typically present at inconsistent levels and may not remain viable during fermentation. In this study, three Lactobacillus strains (Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus ATCC 53103 (L. rhamnosus), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum ATCC 14917 (L. plantarum) and Lentilactobacillus hilgardii (L. hilgardii) isolate) were encapsulated in whey protein using the lyophilization method and added individually at the start of kombucha fermentation. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB)–enriched kombucha samples were evaluated for chemical composition (polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamin C and organic acids) and functional properties (antimicrobial, antiproliferative, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities) and compared to a traditionally obtained control kombucha, primarily demonstrating in vitro and experimental assessment. Encapsulation maintained LAB viability above 6–7 log CFU/mL throughout fermentation, producing kombucha with enhanced microbial stability. LAB–enriched samples exhibited increased L-lactic acid and antimicrobial activity. L. rhamnosus and L. hilgardii–enriched samples exhibited increased antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory activities, which may be associated with strain-dependent production of organic acids, polyphenol modulation and LAB-derived bioactive metabolites. Antioxidant activity varied depending on assay, and L. rhamnosus–enriched kombucha showed higher anti-inflammatory activity. These findings demonstrate that whey protein encapsulation can preserve LAB during fermentation, enhance specific bioactive properties and provide a platform for developing functional kombucha beverages with potential applications in the food industry. Full article

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with systemic inflammation and frequent exacerbations, leading to disease progression and increased morbidity. Vitamin D deficiency has been suggested to contribute to COPD inflammation and exacerbations. Aim: This study investigated the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels, systemic inflammation, and exacerbation frequency among patients with COPD GOLD group E. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 111 patients with stable COPD. Patients were divided into two groups based on their serum 25(OH)D levels (<50 nmol/L vs. ≥50 nmol/L). Data on exacerbation frequency for the past year, inflammatory markers, spirometric lung function parameters, and symptom burden were collected. Results: Patients with low serum 25(OH)D (<50 nmol/L) had a significantly higher CAT score and level of serum high-sensitivity (hs)-CRP and exhibited significantly more exacerbations compared to those with higher 25(OH)D levels (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.0001, respectively). Furthermore, lower vitamin D levels were associated with higher CAT scores (Pearson’s correlation coefficient, r = −0.30, p < 0.01) and higher serum hs-CRP levels (Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, r = −0.25, p < 0.01), as well as a higher number of exacerbations (Pearson’s correlation coefficient, r = −0.74, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Low vitamin D levels are significantly associated with greater symptom burden, elevated hs-CRP, and increased exacerbation frequency, indicating a strong relationship between vitamin D deficiency, systemic inflammation, and disease burden in patients with COPD belonging to GOLD group E. However, due to the cross-sectional design, no causal relationship can be inferred and prospective interventional studies are required to determine whether treating vitamin D deficiency improves clinical outcomes. Full article

Foliar nanofertilization is increasingly being explored as a strategy to enhance crop nutritional quality; however, dose-dependent physiological and metabolic responses remain insufficiently defined. This study evaluated the effects of conventional NPK (20:20:20) and nano-formulated NPK combined with zinc (3 and 5 g/L) on the mineral composition, bioactive compounds, antioxidant capacity, and metabolic profile of sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L., cv. ‘Dora’) grown under controlled conditions. Physicochemical characterization of the nanofertilizer by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy confirmed nanoscale primary particle size and revealed concentration-dependent aggregation behavior at higher Zn levels. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed among treatments in macro- and microelement content, total phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids, ascorbic acid, and antioxidant activity. The application of nano NPK combined with 3 g/L Zn resulted in the highest accumulation of total phenolics, flavonoids, and vitamin C, accompanied by enhanced antioxidant capacity, suggesting stimulation of secondary metabolism. In contrast, the higher Zn concentration (5 g/L) further increased carotenoid content but was associated with elevated proline levels, indicating the onset of physiological stress. Multivariate analyses (PCA and ROC) supported dose-dependent metabolic modulation and confirmed that combinations of selected metabolites contributed to clearer differentiation between fertilization regimes. Overall, the results highlight the existence of an optimal nano-zinc application range that enhances fruit functional quality while avoiding stress-related metabolic imbalance, emphasizing the importance of physicochemical stability in nano-enabled fertilization strategies. While this study focused on a single sweet pepper cultivar, future research should explore other pepper species to evaluate whether similar dose-dependent nano Zn effects are observed. Full article

Zinc deficiency is recognized as a global public health concern, affecting populations of all ages. This study aims to develop zinc supplements (nutraceuticals) based on by-products of the fruit and vegetable processing industry. Dehydrated apple and beetroot pomace powders were enriched with vitamin C and zinc via fluid-bed wet granulation, producing granules with substantially improved flowability (Carr’s index reduced by up to 45%, Hausner ratio by up to 25%, while the bulk and tapped density were reduced by up to 25% and 40%, respectively). Microbiological and long-term storage stability was demonstrated by low water activity (aw) (≤0.3), moisture content (<10%), and glass transition temperatures (T_g = 29–34 °C) that were well above standard storage conditions. The formulated nutraceuticals exhibited stronger antioxidant activity compared to the starting powders, as well as significant anti-hyperglycemic activity. Furthermore, the enhanced bioaccessibility of zinc was confirmed upon in vitro digestion of granulated samples, using atomic absorption spectrometry and differential pulse voltammetry. The present findings demonstrate that apple and beetroot pomaces can be successfully valorized as sustainable and functional matrices for zinc enrichment, being free of gluten, artificial sweeteners, colorants, preservatives, anti-caking agents, and anti-nutritional factors such as phytic acid. Full article

This study employed UPLC-MS/MS to determine the contents of major polyphenolic compounds and proanthocyanidins (PCs) in Kyoho grape seeds, optimized the extraction method and conditions for PCs using response surface methodology (RSM), and further evaluated the scavenging activities of PCs against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl (•OH) radicals as well as their effects on growth, immunity, and oxidative stress in mice. Three hundred and sixty 3-week-old male mice (42.28 ± 0.31 g) were assigned to a single factor complete randomized trial design and fed with six different diets including 0 mg/kg vitamin E(VE) + 0 mg/kg PCs, 100 mg/kg VE, 25 mg/kg PCs + 75 mg/kg VE, 50 mg/kg PCs + 50 mg/kg VE, 75 mg/kg PCs + 25 mg/kg VE and 100 mg/kg PCs, respectively. The results demonstrated that PCs were identified as the predominant phenolic compounds, accounting for 29.6% of total phenolic substances in Kyoho grape seeds. Additionally, the ultrasound-assisted extraction method was superior to the shaker-assisted and low-temperature infiltration extraction methods, with optimal conditions of 60% ethanol concentration, material-to-liquid ratio of 1:20 g/mL, temperature of 30 °C, and extraction time of 50 min. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that ultrasound treatment effectively disrupted the seed surface structure, facilitating PC release. In vitro, PCs exhibited significantly stronger DPPH and hydroxyl radical (•OH) scavenging activities than vitamin C (VC), Trolox, and gallic acid. Compared with the control group, mice fed diets containing PCs and VE showed higher superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activity, and total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), Catalase (CAT), GPX and inflammation factor 10 (IL-10) genes levels in the serum and liver (p < 0.05), whereas the levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin M (IgM), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), as well as the mRNA expression of IL-1β and TNF-α, showed the opposite trend (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the antioxidant capacity of PCs was stronger than that of VC and VE. The addition of PCs improved the antioxidant activity and immune function of mice. Full article

Background: Breast cancer (BC) remains the most prevalent malignancy among women worldwide, with one in eight at risk during their lifetime. Platinum-based chemotherapeutic drugs, despite of their binding to the DNA of cancer cells, are plagued by toxicity and resistance, necessitating the need for safer and more effective alternatives, such as organometallic complexes. Both synthetic organometallic complexes and natural compounds have attracted attention in this regard. Organotin(IV) complexes are promising chemotherapeutics due to their structural versatility and bioactivity, while vitamins such as Vitamin D (VD) and Vitamin E (VE) exhibit antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, making them valuable candidates for combination therapy. Methodology: In this study, six novel organotin(IV) dithiocarbamate complexes [LMe₃Sn (Complex 1), LBu₃Sn (Complex 2), LPh₃Sn (Complex 3), LMe₂SnCl (Complex 4), LBu₂SnCl (Complex 5), and L₂Me₂Sn (Complex 6), where L = (E)-4-styrylpiperazine-1-carbodithioate], were synthesized and characterized by FT-IR, ¹H-, ¹³C-NMR, and elemental analysis. Results: Structural studies confirmed penta- and hexacoordination geometries. In silico docking against six BC-related proteins identified Complexes 2 and 4 with both vitamins as promising candidates, exhibiting strong binding affinities, with stable interaction profiles. However, integration of pharmacokinetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory analyses highlighted Complex 4 with both vitamins as the most potent candidate owing to its superior ADME characteristics and balanced biological properties. Subsequent in vitro assays confirmed these findings, as Complex 4 demonstrated strong cytotoxic activity against both MCF-7 (>1.16-fold) and MDA-MB-231 (>1.46-fold) cell lines, surpassing the efficacy of cisplatin. Remarkably, co-administration of VD or VE with Complex 4 further enhanced its anticancer potential, with Chou–Talalay combination index values < 1 (0.66–0.91) indicating a synergistic interaction. Conclusions: Collectively, these results identify Complex 4 as a promising lead compound, and its synergistic activity with natural vitamins may promote cell death, likely through apoptosis induction and modulation of oxidative stress, underscoring its potential as an effective and less toxic therapeutic strategy for breast cancer management. Full article

Monkey kola is a common name given to the edible wild relatives of the West African kolanut. These are neglected and underutilized indigenous tropical fruit species growing in the West and Central African forests. Knowledge of the nutrient and antinutrient composition of the fruits is highly inadequate. In this study, mature fruits of two wild monkey kola species (Cola pachycarpa and Cola lepidota) were collected and evaluated for phytochemical, proximate, vitamin and mineral composition. There were significant (p < 0.05) differences in the proximate, mineral, and vitamin composition of the two species. C. lepidota was richer in moisture, protein, fat, alkaloids, phosphorus, calcium, and iron, while C. pachycarpa was richer in ash content, crude fibre, flavonoids, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin E. However, there were no significant (p > 0.05) differences between the two monkey kola species in their saponins, tannins and phytate composition. The abundance of a wide variety of minerals, vitamins and other bioactive compounds in both kola species justifies their wide consumption by natives in regions where they grow. The fruits of these species should be fully exploited for their potential health benefits. Full article

In the present study, Shuidong mustard (Brassica juncea) produced in Maoming City, Guangdong Province, was fermented at 25 °C for 15 days, using wild microorganisms and 20 g/kg table salt in water. The results showed that this fermentation endowed Shuidong mustard with acid production via utilizing reduced sugar as the fermentation substrate, causing the fermented Shuidong mustard to have a decreased pH value and increased total titratable acidity. Partly as the result of NaCl usage or fermentation, the fermented Shuidong mustard had enhanced NaCl or ash contents, decreased contents in nitrite/nitrate, vitamin C, total phenols, and total carotenoids, and altered textural features reflected as reduced hardness, chewiness, springiness, and fracturability. Moreover, 90 volatile compounds, including 2-butyl, 3-butenyl, isobutyl, and ethyl isothiocyanates, were detected in the fermented Shuidong mustard after the 15-day fermentation, while 21 members comprised 95% (w/w) of total volatiles. Additionally, the analysis results revealed that the microorganism community of fermented Shuidong mustard was structured at respective phylum, genera, or species levels by Firmicutes and Proteobacteria, or Lactiplantibacillus, Enterobacteriaceae, Lactococcus, and Pediococcus, or Lactiplantibacillus, Enterobacteriaceae, Pediococcus, and Lactococcus. It is thus concluded that this explored fermentation induced both acid production and, more importantly, compositional and textural changes in Shuidong mustard, which had production potential at an industrial scale as part of a healthy diet because these bioactive compounds include isothiocyanates, polyphenols, and carotenoids. Overall, this study focused on the Shuidong mustard fermentation using 20 g/kg table salt to fill a research gap in low-salt fermentation, showing its significance by providing a scientific basis for product development. Full article

Ferulic acid, a derivative of hydroxycinnamic acid, is a potent antioxidant used in dermatology for its ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species and stabilize vitamins C and E. Its multidirectional action includes photoprotection, anti-inflammatory effects, and inhibition of melanogenesis. The study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the impact of 20% ferulic acid peels on skin barrier function, sebum level, pH, and biomechanical properties (elasticity). A group of 18 subjects underwent a series of three treatments. Objective skin parameters were measured. Assessments were conducted at baseline and 14 days post-treatment. A statistically significant increase in stratum corneum hydration was observed on the cheek. Barrier function improved significantly, with transepidermal water loss (TEWL) decreasing in both analyzed areas. Biomechanical analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement in elasticity (R2 parameter) on the cheek and forehead (p < 0.05). Ferulic acid has the potential to improve epidermal hydration and support the skin’s permeability barrier, as evidenced by reduced TEWL. The stability of skin pH suggests high tolerability, confirming ferulic acid as an effective therapeutic agent for mature and sensitive skin. Full article

This four-year study assessed the nutritional profiles of fermented Chamerion angustifolium leaves from natural, organic, and biodynamic cultivation systems. Vitamins, pigments, and sugars were analyzed under standardized aerobic solid-state fermentation (SSF) for 24 and 48 h. Biodynamically grown leaves showed 42.7% and 49.7% higher β-carotene levels than organically and naturally grown leaves, while naturally grown leaves accumulated the most chlorophylls and total sugars. Organic cultivation promoted the highest vitamin C and L-ascorbic acid concentrations. Prolonged fermentation (48 h) significantly enhanced vitamin C (18.48%) and L-ascorbic acid (16.50%) only in naturally grown leaves. These findings demonstrate consistent cultivation-dependent nutritional trends and highlight the functional potential of fireweed leaves as bioactive ingredient carriers for functional foods, with applications in dairy products, beverages, and dietary supplements. Full article

Micronutrient deficiencies are commonly observed in patients with obesity and may persist or worsen following bariatric and metabolic surgery. Emerging evidence suggests that micronutrients play a fundamental role in tissue repair, collagen synthesis, immune function, and inflammatory regulation processes that are critical in postoperative healing. Therefore, deficiencies in these nutrients could be pivotal in understanding and preventing postoperative complications. However, the potential link between preoperative micronutrient status and the development of postoperative complications, such as anastomotic or gastric fistula, remains underexplored. This narrative review aims to investigate the correlation between specific micronutrient deficiencies (e.g., vitamin C, zinc, selenium, vitamin A, and iron) and the incidence of fistula after bariatric surgery. We will discuss the underlying biological mechanisms, clinical evidence, and possible preventive strategies, including preoperative screening and targeted supplementation. Our aim is to highlight the often-overlooked micronutrient deficiency as a risk factor in patients undergoing bariatric surgery, both in the pre- and postoperative periods, and to propose a more comprehensive approach to patient assessment and management. Full article