Health benefits of bluefin tuna consumption: (Thunnus thynnus) as a case study.

Consumers are increasingly interested in food products with high nutritional value and health benefits. For instance, fish consumption is linked with diverse positive health benefits and the prevention of certain widespread disorders, such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, or cardiovascular diseases. These benefits have been attributed to its excellent nutritional value (large amounts of high-quality fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals) and bioactive compounds, while being relatively low-caloric. Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus tynnus) is one of the most consumed species worldwide, motivated by its good nutritional and organoleptic characteristics. Recently, some organizations have proposed limitations on its consumption due to the presence of contaminants, mainly heavy metals such as mercury. However, several studies have reported that most specimens hold lower levels of contaminants than the established limits and that their richness in selenium effectively limits the contaminants' bioaccessibility in the human body. Considering this situation, this study aims to provide baseline data about the nutritional composition and the latest evidence regarding the beneficial effects of Atlantic bluefin tuna consumption. A review of the risk-benefit ratio was also conducted to evaluate the safety of its consumption, considering the current suggested limitations to this species' consumption.

"Development and characterization of edible films based on starch isolated from different Colombian potato varieties".

This work reports on the extraction and characterization of the behavior of starch from residues of several potato varieties (Criolla, Sabanera and Pastusa) of Colombian origin from the Andean region using different techniques and the evaluation of the effect of citric acid (CA) on the grain morphology. Additionally, films were produced with each one of the extracted starches and glycerol. Pastusa variety starch shows a higher granule size than the other varieties and Pastusa starch shows lower amylose content compared to Sabanera and Criolla. Criolla and Pastusa starches exhibit more thermal stability than Sabanera starch. Starch-glycerol films were also produced using the cast solving method. The films were mechanically analyzed by tensile test and the barrier properties were assessed by water vapor permeability (WVP). The tensile strength of the films varied in the 2.0-2.4 MPa range, while the elongation at break was comprised between 25 and 32 %. With regard to water vapor permeability, the obtained values fall within the 4-7 × 10-10 g m-1 s-1 Pa-1 range. It was observed that the thickness of the films and the protein content affected water vapor permeability, increasing this value at higher levels of thickness.

Polyphenolic profile, processing impact, and bioaccessibility of apple fermented products.

Health-promoting foods have become increasingly popular due to intensified consumer interest and awareness of illnesses. There is a global market for apple fruits, which are affordable, nutritious, tasty, and produced in large quantities for direct consumption as well as food processing to make derived products. The food matrix of apples is suitable for fermentation, besides containing a high amount of phenolics and polyphenols. Fermentation of apples is one of the most common methods of preserving apple fruit and its byproducts. With different fermentation techniques, apple fruit can be used to make a wide range of products, such as fermented apple juice, cider, liqueurs, apple cider, apple vinegar and fermented apple solids, because it is not only a low-cost and simple method of processing the fruit, but it can also sometimes increase the bioavailability of nutrients and the levels of components that can improve health and sensory quality. To understand the health benefits of food products and how the fermentation process impacts polyphenols, it is also crucial to observe the effects of digestion on polyphenol bioaccessibility. Polyphenolic profile changes can be observed via both in vitro and in vivo digestion methods; however, in vitro digestion methods have the advantage of observing every step of gastrointestinal track effects and have less cost as well. In this review, the polyphenolic profile, processing impact, and bioaccessibility of apple-fermented products is assessed, with most available studies showing polyphenol profiles and bioaccessibility in apple varieties and fermented apple products.

Azo dyes in the food industry: Features, classification, toxicity, alternatives, and regulation.

Azo dyes, including Tartrazine, Sunset Yellow, and Carmoisine, are added to foods to provide color, but they have no value with regard to nutrition, food preservation, or health benefits. Because of their availability, affordability, stability, and low cost, and because they provide intense coloration to the product without contributing unwanted flavors, the food industry often prefers to use synthetic azo dyes rather than natural colorants. Food dyes have been tested by regulatory agencies responsible for guaranteeing consumer safety. Nevertheless, the safety of these colorants remains controversial; they have been associated with adverse effects, particularly due to the reduction and cleavage of the azo bond. Here, we review the features, classification, regulation, toxicity, and alternatives to the use of azo dyes in food.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic triple neurectomy for chronic inguinal pain: Description of the technique, our experience and preliminary results.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic inguinal pain or inguinodynia following hernioplasty is a relatively common complication that can be very incapacitating. Surgical treatment by triple neurectomy is a therapeutic option when previous treatments (oral/local therapy or neuromodulation) have failed. OBJECTIVE: Retrospective description of the surgical technique and results of laparoscopic and robot-assisted triple neurectomy for chronic inguinodynia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We describe the inclusion/exclusion criteria as well as the surgical technique applied in 7 patients operated on at the University Health Care Complex of León (Urology Department) after failure of other treatment options. RESULTS: The patients presented chronic groin pain, reporting a preoperative pain VAS of 7.43 out of 10. After surgery, this score was reduced to 3.71 on the first postoperative day and to 4.2 points one year after surgery. Hospital discharge occurred 24 h after surgery with no relevant complications being reported. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic or robot-assisted triple neurectomy is a safe, reproducible, and effective technique for the treatment of chronic groin pain refractory to other treatments.

Molecular mechanisms of the chemical constituents from anti-inflammatory and antioxidant active fractions of Ganoderma neo-japonicum Imazeki.

Ganoderma neo-japonicum Imazeki is a rare medicinal mushroom that has been reported to play a role in scavenging free radicals, protecting the liver, and inhibiting tumor cell activity. In this study, crude extracts were prepared, and 47 triterpenoids were identified by Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole time-of flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Triple TOF-MS/MS). Then, the crude extracts were subjected to column chromatography for the first time to obtain six fractions (Fr. (a), (b), (c), (d), (e) and (f)). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory active tracking assays of all fractions found that Fr. (c) exhibited the strongest bioactivity. Subsequently, the chemical composition of Fr. (c) was clarified, and eight triterpenoids were determined in combination with the standard substances. In addition, this study demonstrated that Fr. (c) reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Further studies showed that Fr. (c) could down-regulate the expression level of proteins associated of NF-κB signaling pathway, and upregulated Nrf2 and HO-1 protein level. In conclusion, our study showed that Fr. (c) inhibited LPS-mediated inflammatory response and oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and inactivating the NF-κB pathway. In the future, with the clearing of its composition and activity mechanism, Fr. (c) of G. neo-japonicum are expected to become a functional food for health and longevity.

Macroalgae as biofactories of metal nanoparticles; biosynthesis and food applications.

Nanotechnology has opened a new frontier in recent years, capable of providing new ways of controlling and structuring products with greater market value and offering significant opportunities for the development of innovative applications in food processing, preservation, and packaging. Macroalgae (MAG) are the major photoautotrophic group of living beings known as a potential source of secondary metabolites, namely phenolic compounds, pigments, and polysaccharides. Biosynthesis based on the abilities of MAG as "nanobiofactories" targets the use of algal secondary metabolites as reducing agents to stabilize nanoparticles (NPs). Nowadays, most of the studies are focused on the use of metal (Ag, Au) and metal-oxide (CuO, ZnO) NPs derived from algae. The eco-friendly biosynthesis of metal NPs reduces the cost and production time and increases their biocompatibility, due to the presence of bioactive compounds in MAG, making them suitable for a wide variety of applications. These compounds have been attributed to the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties responsible for their application through innovative technologies such as nanoencapsulation, nanocomposites, or biosensors in the food industry. Nevertheless, toxicity is a key factor that should be considered, so the applicable regulation needs to guarantee the safe use of metal NPs. Consequently, the aim of this review will be to compile the available information on MAG-mediated metal NPs, their biosynthesis, and potential food applications.

Application of fermentation for the valorization of residues from Cactaceae family.

Cactaceae family is well-known for their adaptations to drought and arid environments. This family, formed by four subfamilies (Cactoideae, Opuntioideae, Pereskioideae, and Maihuenioideae) are known for being leafless stem succulent plants with numerous spines, and their commercial fruits, distinguished by their bright colors and their skin covered with bracts. Some of these species have been traditionally used in the food industry (e.g., pitaya, cactus, or prickly pear) or as pharmaceuticals to treat specific diseases due to their active properties. The processing of these fruits leads to different residues, namely pomace, skin, spines, and residues from cladodes; besides from others such as fruits, roots, flowers, mucilage, and seeds. In general, Cactaceae species produce large amounts of mucilage and fiber, although they can be also considered as a source of phenolic compounds (phenolic acids, flavonols and their glycosides), alkaloids (phenethylamines derived betalains), and triterpenoids. Therefore, considering their high content in fiber and fermentable carbohydrates, together with other target bioactive compounds, fermentation is a potential valorization strategy for certain applications such as enzymes and bioactive compounds production or aroma enhancement. This review will comprise the latest information about Cactaceae family, its potential residues, and its potential as a substrate for fermentation to obtain active molecules with application in the food industry.

Seaweed polysaccharides: Emerging extraction technologies, chemical modifications and bioactive properties.

Nowadays, consumers are increasingly aware of the relationship between diet and health, showing a greater preference of products from natural origin. In the last decade, seaweeds have outlined as one of the natural sources with more potential to obtain bioactive carbohydrates. Numerous seaweed polysaccharides have aroused the interest of the scientific community, due to their biological activities and their high potential on biomedical, functional food and technological applications. To obtain polysaccharides from seaweeds, it is necessary to find methodologies that improve both yield and quality and that they are profitable. Nowadays, environmentally friendly extraction technologies are a viable alternative to conventional methods for obtaining these products, providing several advantages like reduced number of solvents, energy and time. On the other hand, chemical modification of their structure is a useful approach to improve their solubility and biological properties, and thus enhance the extent of their potential applications since some uses of polysaccharides are still limited. The present review aimed to compile current information about the most relevant seaweed polysaccharides, available extraction and modification methods, as well as a summary of their biological activities, to evaluate knowledge gaps and future trends for the industrial applications of these compounds.Key teaching pointsStructure and biological functions of main seaweed polysaccharides.Emerging extraction methods for sulfate polysaccharides.Chemical modification of seaweeds polysaccharides.Potential industrial applications of seaweed polysaccharides.Biological activities, knowledge gaps and future trends of seaweed polysaccharides.

Characterization of the physicochemical, thermal and rheological properties of cashew kernel starch.

The study aimed to characterize physicochemical, thermal, and rheological properties of cashew nut starch (CNS) and then compare the obtained results with the properties of potato and corn starches. CNS showed higher gelatinization temperatures (112.29 °C) than those noted for potato and maize starches (78.44-94.65 °C). In addition, CNS had higher peak viscosity (19.03 mPa·s) than high amylose corn starch. The static shear rheological test indicated that the CNS followed a pseudoplastic behavior. In addition, CNS sample showed a thixotropic patter, which was less pronounced than that observed for potato starch, but higher than the value reported for high amylose corn starch. These results demonstrated that the shear resistance of CNS was lower than high amylose corn starch, but higher than potato starch. The storage and loss modulus (G' and G", respectively) of the CNS were higher than those reported for the rest of samples. In this line, elastic properties were predominant in CNS sample. In conclusion, results from this study provided insight into physicochemical and structural properties of cashew nut starch, which could represent a preliminary step for its future application in food processing.

[2022 Practice guidelines for the management of arterial hypertension of the Spanish Society of Hypertension]. / Guía práctica sobre el diagnóstico y tratamiento de la hipertensión arterial en España, 2022. Sociedad Española de Hipertensión - Liga Española para la Lucha contra la Hipertensión Arterial (SEH-LELHA).

Hypertension is the most important risk factor for global disease burden. Detection and management of hypertension are considered as key issues for individual and public health, as adequate control of blood pressure levels markedly reduces morbidity and mortality associated with hypertension. Aims of these practice guidelines for the management of arterial hypertension of the Spanish Society of Hypertension include offering simplified schemes for diagnosis and treatment for daily practice, and strategies for public health promotion. The Spanish Society of Hypertension assumes the 2018 European guidelines for management of arterial hypertension developed by the European Society of Cardiology and the European Society of Hypertension, although relevant aspects of the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines and the 2020 International Society of Hypertension guidelines are also commented. Hypertension is defined as a persistent elevation in office systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg, and assessment of out-of-office blood pressure and global cardiovascular risk are considered of key importance for evaluation and management of hypertensive patients. The target for treated blood pressure should be < 130/80 for most patients. The treatment of hypertension involves lifestyle interventions and drug therapy. Most people with hypertension need more than one antihypertensive drug for adequate control, so initial therapy with two drugs, and single pill combinations are recommended for a wide majority of hypertensive patients.

Biological properties and potential of compounds extracted from red seaweeds.

Macroalgae have been recently used for different applications in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry since they do not compete for land and freshwater against other resources. Moreover, they have been highlighted as a potential source of bioactive compounds. Red algae (Rhodophyta) are the largest group of seaweeds, including around 6000 different species, thus it can be hypothesized that they are a potential source of bioactive compounds. Sulfated polysaccharides, mainly agar and carrageenans, are the most relevant and exploited compounds of red algae. Other potential molecules are essential fatty acids, phycobiliproteins, vitamins, minerals, and other secondary metabolites. All these compounds have been demonstrated to exert several biological activities, among which antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antimicrobial properties can be highlighted. Nevertheless, these properties need to be further tested on in vivo experiments and go in-depth in the study of the mechanism of action of the specific molecules and the understanding of the structure-activity relation. At last, the extraction technologies are essential for the correct isolation of the molecules, in a cost-effective way, to facilitate the scale-up of the processes and their further application by the industry. This manuscript is aimed at describing the fundamental composition of red algae and their most studied biological properties to pave the way to the utilization of this underused resource.

Risk of a Second Skin Cancer in a Cohort of Patients With Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer -Basal Cell Carcinoma or Squamous Cell Carcinoma-Treated With Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A National Prospective Cohort Study. / Riesgo de aparición de segundas neoplasias cutáneas en una cohorte de pacientes diagnosticados de carcinoma queratinocítico (carcinoma basocelular y carcinoma epidermoide) tratados con cirugía de Mohs. Estudio de cohortes prospectivo nacional.

OBJECTIVE: Patients with nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC)-ie, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)-have an increased risk of developing a second skin cancer. The aim of this study was to describe the frequency, incidence per 1000 person-years, and predictors of a second skin cancer in a cohort of patients with NMSC treated with Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective study of a national cohort of patients with NMSC who underwent MMS at 22 Spanish hospitals between July 2013 and February 2020; case data were recorded in the REGESMOHS registry. The study variables included demographic characteristics, frequency and incidence per 1000 person-years of second skin cancers diagnosed during the study period, and risk factors identified using mixed-effects logistic regression. RESULTS: We analyzed data for 4768 patients who underwent MMS; 4397 (92%) had BCC and 371 (8%) had SCC. Mean follow-up was 2.4 years. Overall, 1201 patients (25%) developed a second skin cancer during follow-up; 1013 of the tumors were BCCs (21%), 154 were SCCs (3%), and 20 were melanomas (0.4%). The incidence was 107 per 1000 person-years (95% CI, 101-113) for any cancer, 90 per 1000 person-years (95% CI, 85-96) for BCC, 14 (95% CI, 12-16) per 1000 person-years for SCC, and 2 (95% CI, 1-3) per 1000 person-years for melanoma. More men than women developed a subsequent skin cancer (738 [61%] vs 463 [39%]). The main risk factors were a history of multiple tumors before diagnosis (relative risk [RR], 4.6; 95% CI, 2.9-7.1), immunosuppression (RR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.4-3.1), and male sex (RR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.4-1.9). CONCLUSION: Patients have an increased risk of developing a second tumor after MMS treatment of NMSC. Risk factors are a history of multiple tumors at diagnosis, immunosuppression, and male sex.

Stability profiling and degradation products of dihydromyricetin in Dulbecco's modified eagle's medium.

Dihydromyricetin has shown many bioactivities in cell level. However, dihydromyricetin was found to be highly instable in cell culture medium DMEM. Here, the underlying degradation mechanism was investigated via UPLC-MS/MS analysis. Dihydromyricetin was mainly converted into its dimers and oxidized products. At lower temperature, dihydromyricetin in DMEM showed higher stability. Vitamin C increased the stability of dihydromyricetin in DMEM probably due to its high antioxidant potential.

Solutions for the sustainability of the food production and consumption system.

Due to the increasing population, there is high concern about whether the current food system will be able to provide enough healthy food for 10 billion people by 2050. The general opinion is that it is possible to feed this population, but the food system requires major transformations on behalf of promoting sustainability, reducing food waste and stimulating a change toward diets healthy for humans and also sustainable for the planet. This article will review some detected problems in food production and consumption. In food production, current problems like destruction of land ecosystems, overfishing or generation of high amounts of residues stand out. Some solutions have been described, such as implement the agroecology, improve productivity of aquaculture or re-valorization of by-products. In food consumption, the main problems are the food fraud and the unhealthy dietary patters, whose main solutions are the standardization along food chain and education on healthy lifestyles. Concluding, food system should change toward more sustainable practices and behaviors in other to ensure the subsistence of the present and the future generations.

Analytical Metabolomics and Applications in Health, Environmental and Food Science.

Metabolomics is a young field of knowledge that arises linked to other omics such as genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. This discipline seeks to understand the performance of metabolites, identifying, quantifying them, and thus understanding its mechanism of action. This new branch of omics science shows high potential, due to its noninvasive character and its close relation with phenotype. Several techniques have been developed to study the metabolome of biological samples, fundamentally nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), mass spectrometry (MS) and vibrational spectrometry (VS) or a combination of several techniques. These techniques are focused to separate, detect, characterize, and quantify metabolites, as well as elucidate their structures and their function on the metabolic pathways they are involved. However, due to the complexity of the metabolome, in most cases it is necessary to apply several of these techniques to understand completely the whole scenery. This review is aimed to offer a summary of the current knowledge of these analytical techniques for metabolomics and their application to different fields as environmental, food or health sciences. Each technique shows different advantages and drawbacks depending on their technical characteristics and limitations, some factors, such as the aim of the study or the nature of the biological sample will condition the choice. Regarding their applications, NMR has been employed specially to identify new compounds and elucidate structures. The use of MS has gained popularity because of its versatility, easiness to be coupled to separation techniques and its high sensitivity. Whereas VS is widely employed for in situ studies, due to its nondestructive character. Metabolomics applications in different science fields are growing each year, due to advances in analytical techniques and combination with other omics that allow to increase the comprehension of metabolic processes. Further development of analytical tools is necessary to continue exploiting all the possibilities of metabolomics. HighlightsMetabolomics seeks to understand the performance of metabolites and its mechanism of actionDifferent metabolomics techniques have been developed and improved in the last yearsMetabolomics applications cover clinical, pharmaceuticals and food and environmental sciencesThis review is aimed to offer a summary of the current knowledge of these analytical techniques.