Articles publicats en revistes (Institut de Recerca en Nutrició i Seguretat Alimentària (INSA·UB))

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Towards a sustainable recovery of polyphenols from agrifood waste: Performance of polymeric sorbents with natural deep eutecticsolvent extracts
(Elsevier B.V., 2024-08-18) Mir Cerdà, Aina; Ramos Calero, Verónica; Beltrán Abadia, José Luis; Cortina Pallàs, José Luis; Saurina, Javier; Sentellas, Sonia; Granados i Juan, Mercè
Olive oil production generates large amounts of waste, which contains phenolic compounds at relevant concentrations. In recent years, interest in the recovery of these compounds has grown to take advantage of their natural antioxidant properties. Natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDESs), considered as green solvents, have proved their efficiency to extract phenolic compounds from agri-food waste. The resulting extracts must be purified before being used in pharmaceutical, food, or cosmetic applications. In this study, the performance of several non-functionalized polymeric sorbents (PuroSorb PAD900, PAD950 and PAD610, and Macronet MN202) was evaluated for the purification of NaDES extracts (choline chloride-glycerol (1:5); 30% water) from olive tree leaves. It is important to highlight that these types of characterization studies are common for conventional solvent extracts but are very novel and scarce for their NaDES counterparts. Sorption was investigated at the natural conditions of the extracts (pH 5.3), and ethanol-water mixtures were used in the desorption experiments. Overall, the four sorbents displayed good sorption characteristics, with MN202 being particularly suited to retain 3-hydroxytyrosol. Ethanol levels above 70% were appropriate for desorption of most phenolic compounds, while mixtures with ethanol content below 50% were more efficient for small polar molecules such as 3-hydroxytyrosol.
The Antiobesity Effects of Rosehip (Rosa canina) Flesh by Antagonizing the PPAR Gamma Activity in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice
(Wiley-VCH, 2024-02-08) Sanz Lamora, Héctor; Nicola Llorente, Mariano; Torres-Oteros, Daniel; Pérez-Martí, A.; Aghziel, Inass; Lozano Castellón, Julián; Vallverdú i Queralt, Anna; Canudas Puig, Sílvia; Marrero González, Pedro F.; Haro, D.; Relat Pardo, Joana
Scope: The rosehip (Rosa canina) is a perennial shrub with a reddish pseudofruit that has demonstrated antidiabetic, antiatherosclerotic, and antiobesogenic effects in rodent models but there is low information about the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects on the onset and progression of diet-induced obesity. Methods and results: Four-week-old C57BL/6J male mice are subjected to a high-fat diet (HFD)-supplemented or not with R. canina flesh for 18 weeks. The results indicated that the R. canina flesh exerts a preventive effect on HFD-induced obesity with a significant reduction in body-weight gain and an improvement of hyperglycemia and insulin resistance caused by a HFD. At the tissue level, subcutaneous white adipose tissue exhibits a higher number of smaller adipocytes, with decreased lipogenesis. On its side, the liver shows a significant decrease in lipid droplet content and in the expression of genes related to lipogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, and glucose metabolism. Finally, the data suggest that most of these effects agree with the presence of a putative Perosxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR ) antagonist in the R. canina flesh. Conclusions: R. canina flesh dietary supplementation slows down the steatotic effect of a HFD at least in part through the regulation of the transcriptional activity of PPAR .
Bifidobacterium breve M-16 V and scGOS/lcFOS Supplementation to Dams Ameliorates Infant Rotavirus Infection in Early Life
(Wiley-VCH, 2024-10-29) Sáez Fuertes, Laura; Rio-Aige, Karla; Massot Cladera, Malen; Castell, Margarida; Knipping, K.; Garssen, J.; Bourdet-Sicard, Raphaëlle; Rodríguez Lagunas, María José; Collado, Maria Carmen; Pérez-Cano, Francisco J.
The immune system of newborns is underdeveloped, leaving them susceptible to infections like rotavirus (RV). Despite vaccines, RV remains a leading cause of child mortality, especially in developing countries. Maternal immunity is transferred during pregnancy and breastfeeding to the offspring providing protection against RV infection. This study aims to explore how the maternal diet can enhance the newborn’s ability to fight early infections. Pregnant rats received orally Bifidobacterium breve M-16 V and short chain galacto-oligosaccharides (scGOS)/long chain fructo-oligosaccharides (lcFOS). At day 5 of life pups are infected with RV and at day 8, samples are collected for the infection analysis. Pups whose mothers received the synbiotic have lower RV infection severity. The levels of immunoglobulins (Ig) IgG2c and IgA are raised in pups’ plasma and digested milk, respectively. Synbiotic supplementation improves intestinal maturation and increases gene expression of immune-related genes. In conclusion, the administration of this synbiotic to gestating and lactating mothers ameliorates the incidence and severity of the pup’s diarrhea caused by the RV infection by improving their immunity.
Microseparation techniques coupled to mass spectrometry for a sensitive and unequivocal identification of glycopeptides
(Elsevier B.V., 2024-03-21) Pont Villanueva, Laura; Lobo, Glòria; Benavente Moreno, Fernando J. (Julián); Giménez López, Estela
Capillary electrophoresis (CE) and low-flow liquid chromatography (i.e., micro, capillary, and nanoLC) both coupled to mass spectrometry (MS) are nowadays widely accepted for glycopeptide analysis. However, there are still analytical challenges related to the separation of glycopeptide glycoforms and their unequivocal identification. In the present study, CE-MS and capillary LC-MS (capLC-MS) were evaluated for a robust and high-throughput analysis of glycopeptides. Recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) was selected as model glycoprotein due to its relevance as a biopharmaceutical and its high glycopeptide microheterogeneity. The CE-MS method provided adequate glycopeptide separation for those glycoforms differing in the number of sialic acids. However, the separation of glycoforms with the same sialic acid content but different glycan branching (number of antennas) was not achieved. In contrast, capLC-MS with an appropriate reversed phase C18 column enabled to improve their separation. Furthermore, the analysis of rhEPO glycopeptides with the established microseparation methods coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (CE-MS/MS and capLC-MS/MS) provided specific fragmentation patterns and a more reliable glycoform identification. The capLC-MS/MS method was the most promising as, it was able to detect and unequivocally identify a greater number of glycopeptide glycoforms compared to the CE-MS/MS method, including those with glycolylneuraminic acid, which are necessary to differentiate between endogenous and recombinant hEPO.
TGF-β2, EGF and FGF21 influence the suckling rat intestinal maturation
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-01-01) Grases Pintó, Blanca; Torres-Castro, Paulina; Abril Gil, Maria del Mar; Castell, Margarida; Rodríguez Lagunas, María José; Pérez-Cano, Francisco J.; Franch, Aina
Some of the growth factors present in breast milk, such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), play important roles in the development of the intestinal tract. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a supplementation with TGF-β2, EGF and FGF21 on suckling rats intestinal maturation. For this purpose, Wistar rats were supplemented daily with TGF-β2, EGF or FGF21 throughout the suckling period. We evaluated the functionality of the intestinal epithelial barrier through an in vivo dextran permeability assay, and by a histomorphometric and immunohistochemical study. In addition, the intestinal gene expression of tight junction-associated proteins, mucins, toll-like receptors, and maturation markers was analyzed. Moreover, the intraepithelial lymphocyte (IEL) phenotypical composition was established. During the suckling period, the supplementation with TGF-β2, EGF and FGF21 showed important signs of intestinal maturation. These results suggest that these molecules, present in breast milk, play a modulatory role in the maturation of the intestinal barrier function and the IEL composition during the suckling period. Keywords: Breast milk; Growth factors; Intestinal barrier function; Intestinal immunity; Intraepithelial lymphocytes; Neonatal rats.
Rapid detection and quantification of milk adulteration using MALDI-MSprotein profiling and multivariate calibration
(Elsevier, 2024) Tehrani, Tahereh; Pont Villanueva, Laura; Benavente Moreno, Fernando J. (Julián)
The adulteration of high-value milks with low-value milks is a common fraudulent practice in the dairy industry. This not only results in economic or quality prejudice, but also poses a potential threat to individuals with sensitivities or allergies. Profiling the major whey and casein milk proteins can be a crucial tool in combating this malpractice, given that each mammal species exhibits a unique protein fingerprint. In this study, we employed matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) as a rapid and straightforward method for profiling proteins from bovine, caprine, and ovine milks. Subsequently, we analyzed binary mixtures of goat and sheep milks with bovine milk to establish multivariate calibration models using partial least-squares (PLS) to quantify the adulteration of goat and sheep milks. Proteins were identified according to their molecular mass (Mr) and their intensities were considered as multivariate data. To achieve satisfactory calibration and validation results, normalization through variable augmentation was necessary, enabling the quantification of bovine milk across the entire adulteration range. This uncomplicated approach based on MALDI-MS protein profiling and PLS shows significant potential for qualitative and quantitative assessments of milk adulteration.
Investigating isotopic markers for hazelnut geographical authentication: Promising variables and potential applications
(Elsevier B.V., 2024-08-15) Torres Cobos, Berta; Rosell, Mònica; Soler, Anna; Rovira, Mercè; Romero, Agustí; Guardiola Ibarz, Francesc; Vichi, S. (Stefania); Tres Oliver, Alba
Hazelnuts' features and price are influenced by their geographical origin, making them susceptible to fraud, especially counterfeit claims regarding their provenance. Stable isotope analysis is a recognised approach to establish the geographical origin of foods, yet its potential in hazelnut authentication remains unexplored. In this prospective study, we assessed multiple isotopic markers in hazelnuts from different origins and evaluated the most promising variables for geographical authentication by chemometric tools. Our findings indicate that bulk δ18O, along with δ2H and δ13C in the main fatty acid methyl esters, exhibit significant potential in discriminating geographical origins, and 87Sr/86Sr analysis could serve as a proficient confirmatory tool. Though no single marker alone can differentiate between all the studied origins, employing a multi-isotopic approach based on PLS-DA models achieved up to 92.5 % accuracy in leave-10 %-out cross-validation. These findings will probably lay the groundwork for developing robust models for hazelnut geographical authentication based on larger datasets.
Late bedtime combined with more screen time before bed increases the risk of obesity and lowers diet quality in Spanish children
(Elsevier Ltd., 2024-05-01) Zerón-Rugerio, María Fernanda; Santamaría Orleans, Alicia; Izquierdo Pulido, Maria
This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate whether the combination of bedtime and screen time (ST) before bed were associated with obesity and diet quality in toddlers and school-aged children. Parents reported children's bedtimes and ST before bed (0 min, 1-30 min, >30 min). We then defined bed + screen time behavior using bedtime median cut-offs (early [EB] or late [LB]) and ST responses, resulting in four groups: EB-0'ST, EB ≤ 30'ST/LB-0'ST, EB > 30'ST/LB ≤ 30'ST, and LB > 30'ST. For all participants (n = 1133; 5.4 ± 2.7 years, 49.7% girls, 51.9% school-aged) we evaluated body mass index (BMI), diet quality, sleep-related variables, physical activity, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Outcome variables were compared across bed + screen time behavior groups, stratified by age group (toddlers and school-aged children) using general linear models for continuous variables, as well as chi-squared tests or logistic regressions for categorical variables. Additionally, we calculated linear p-trends. Analyses were adjusted for sociodemographic variables, BMI, and physical activity (unless the variable was tested). The results showed that toddlers and school-aged children in the LB ≥ 30'ST group were more likely to have overweight/obesity (OR: 3.42 [95%CI:1.41,8.26] and OR: 2.53 [95%CI:1.10,5.03], respectively) than those in the EB-0'ST group. Additionally, toddlers and school-aged children in the EB > 30'ST/LB ≤ 30'ST and LB > 30'ST groups showed significantly lower adherence to the Mediterranean diet compared to the other groups (p < 0.001). Regarding sleep-related outcomes, we observed that the combination of LB and more ST was associated with poorer sleep quality and shorter sleep duration in toddlers and school-aged children (p < 0.001). These findings emphasize the importance of promoting earlier bedtimes and limiting ST before bed as part of obesity prevention strategies for children. Furthermore, such intervention could benefit the quality of children's diet and overall lifestyle.
On-line aptamer affinity solid-phase extraction capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry for the analysis of protein biomarkers in biological fluids and food: A tutorial
(Elsevier B.V., 2023-08-01) Vergara Barberan, Maria; Pont Villanueva, Laura; Salim, Hiba; Giménez López, Estela; Benavente Moreno, Fernando J. (Julián)
The analysis by capillary electrophoresis (CE) of low abundant proteins in complex samples, such as biological fluids and food, is especially challenging, due to the poor concentration sensitivity of microscale separation tech- niques and the sample matrix complexity. In order to overcome these major drawbacks, microextraction sample preparation techniques based on on-line solid-phase extraction capillary electrophoresis (SPE-CE) are regarded as an excellent alternative for sample matrix clean-up and analyte preconcentration with minimum sample han- dling. In this study, we present, as a tutorial, a valve-free on-line aptamer affinity solid-phase extraction capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry (AA-SPE-CE-MS) method for purification, preconcentration, separation, de- tection, and characterization of intact protein biomarkers in biological fluids and food using as cases of study ‑synuclein ( ‑syn), concanavalin A (Con A), and -lactoglobulin ( -LG), which are related to Parkinson’s dis- ease and food allergy, respectively. This tutorial is not limited to the description of the analytical method, but it also provides ready-to-use preparation procedures for sorbent and microextraction devices, and introduces strategies to overcome undesired effects, allowing a straightforward implementation and optimum performance of AA-SPE-CE-MS, as a platform to develop further applications.
Prenatal exposure to persistent organic pollutants and sex-specific neonatal outcomes in the ENVIRONAGE birth cohort.
(Elsevier, 2026-02-15) De Saeger, Sarah; Raes, Jeroen; Nawrot, Tim S.; Vanhaecke, Lynn; Covaci, Adrian; Cseresznye, Adam; Ouden, Fatima den; Engelen, Liesa; Maris, Elias; Ait Bamai, Yu; Paepe, Ellen De; Poma, Giulia; Derrien, Muriel; Vich Vila, Arnau; Hemeryck, Lieselot Y.; Peró Gascón, Roger
Early-life exposure to environmental contaminants, such as endocrine disrupting persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), is linked to adverse neonatal outcomes. However, the sex-specific effects of POP mixtures and the potential mediating roles of biological pathways, such as inflammation, remain insufficiently understood. This study aimed to investigate these aspects within the ENVIRONAGE birth cohort. The study population consisted of newborns (n = 402) from the ENVIRONAGE birth cohort, of which cord plasma levels of POPs were quantified using GC-ECNI/MS. Neonatal birth outcomes were derived from anthropometric measurements obtained at birth and via questionnaires completed postpartum. Among the 28 targeted POPs, nine were found in more than 50 % of the samples with CB 170, 180 and 153 detected in over 98 % of them. In single-pollutant models, several PCBs were inversely associated with ponderal index, while CB 118 was positively associated with head circumference in males (FDR-adjusted p < 0.05). Weighted Quantile Sum (WQS) regression revealed that in males, the POP mixture was inversely associated with birth weight (β = −141.21, p < 0.05) and ponderal index (β = −0.11, p < 0.01) and positively associated with head circumference (β = 0.53, p < 0.01) and the odds of preterm birth (OR = 2.91, p < 0.05). Conversely, among females, the POP mixture was associated with reduced odds of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) (OR = 0.21, p < 0.05) and below normal APGAR scores (OR = 0.39, p < 0.05). Mediation analysis indicated that the association between p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE) and reduced birth weight/length was significantly mediated by eosinophil levels.
Chemical exposure in childhood: A. study on organophosphate flame retardants and plasticizers
(Elsevier, 2026-01-01) Proost, Sebastian; Vich Vila, Arnau; Raes, Jeroen; Vanhaecke, Lynn; De Boevre, Marthe; De Saeger, Sarah; Nawrot, Tim S.; Poma, Giulia; Covaci, Adrian; Ouden, Fatima den; Cseresznye, Adam; Engelen, Liesa; Maris, Elias; Bosschaerts, Stijn; Gys, Celine; Cleys, Paulien; Ait Bamai, Yu; Peró Gascón, Roger; Hemeryck, Lieselot Y.; Paepe, Ellen De
Humans are exposed daily to contaminants such as organophosphorus flame retardants (PFRs), legacy plasticizers (LPs), and alternative plasticizers (APs). To date, most biomonitoring studies in children have only focused on analysis of LP metabolites and a subset of PFRs and APs. This study investigated exposure to multiple PFRs, LPs and APs in the ENVIRONAGE birth cohort quantifying 13 PFR metabolites in 655 urine samples, while we measured 8 LP and 13 AP metabolites in urine of 328 children. For PFRs, more than 50% of children were exposed to TNBP, TPHP, TDCIPP, TCIPP and EHDPHP. More than 93% of children were exposed to the measured LPs (DEP, DiBP, DnBP, BBzP and DEHP), while for APs more than 50% of children showed exposure to DEHA, DEHTP, DINCH and DIDP. Concentrations of PFR metabolites were higher in summer, while the presence of a pet in the house was associated with higher LP metabolite concentrations. Risk characterization ratios (RCRs) for single compounds and hazard indices (HIs) for compound classes suggested no risk for adverse health effects due to PFR exposure. For LPs, two children showed a HI above 1, while for APs, ten children had a HI above 1. The results indicate widespread exposure to PFRs and plasticizers, with most children being exposed to levels that are considered safe. However, the current study confirms a shift in exposure from LPs to APs, implying the need for further research on exposure to multiple APs in future studies.
Development and validation of an LC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous detection of urinary inflammatory biomarkers in a Flemish birth cohort
(Elsevier B.V., 2026-01-15) Raes, Jeroen; Vanhaecke, Lynn; Nawrot, Tim S.; Covaci, Adrian; Ouden, Fatima den; Cseresznye, Adam; Engelen, Liesa; Maris, Elias; Paepe, Ellen De; Poma, Giulia; Proost, Sebastian; Vich Vila, Arnau; Hemeryck, Lieselot Y.; Peró Gascón, Roger; De Saeger, Sarah
Chronic inflammation is a significant contributor to various diseases but its assessment via blood sampling presents challenges, particularly in children. The evaluation of urinary biomarkers, including 3-bromotyrosine (Bty), 3-chlorotyrosine (Cty) and leukotriene E4 (LTE4), offers a non-invasive alternative. This study presents the optimization and validation of a sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the simultaneous quantification of Bty, Cty and LTE4 in urine. Under optimized conditions, sample preparation was based on SPE using Oasis MAX cartridges, followed by LC-MS/MS analysis. Method performance was validated using the ICH 10 guidelines, resulting in satisfactory results for all analytes in terms of recovery, linearity, limits of quantification, precision and accuracy. Recovery rates ranged from 82% to 97%, while matrix effects were observed within the range of -11% to 26%. Linear range spanned from 0.08 to 20 ng/mL for the three analytes. Application to 332 urine samples from the ENVIRONAGE birth cohort (Belgium), comprising of children aged 4–11 years, revealed detection frequencies of 18% for LTE4, 19% for Cty and 50% for Bty. Notably, creatinine-corrected Cty and LTE4 exhibited statistically significant Spearman correlations with established systemic inflammation markers. Specifically, Cty was positively correlated with absolute monocyte count (ρ = 0.53, p < 0.05), while LTE4 showed a positive correlation with relative eosinophil levels (ρ = 0.46, p < 0.05) and a negative correlation with the relative neutrophil levels (ρ = -0.56, p < 0.01). These results highlight the validated method as a valuable tool for investigating distinct inflammatory pathways in epidemiological settings and clinical research.
Association of adiposity and its changes over time with COVID-19 risk in older adults with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome: a longitudinal evaluation in the PREDIMED-Plus cohort
(BioMed Central, 2023-10-13) Matía-Martín, Pilar; Shyam, Sangeetha; García Gavilán, Jesús; Paz-Graniel, Indira; Gaforio, José J.; Martínez-González, Miguel Ángel, 1957-; Corella Piquer, Dolores; Martínez Hernández, José Alfredo; Alonso Gómez, Ángel M.; Wärnberg, Julia; Vioque, Jesús; Romaguera, Dora; López-Miranda, José; Estruch Riba, Ramon; Tinahones, Francisco José; Lapetra, José; Serra-Majem, Lluís; Bueno-Cavanillas, Aurora; Tur, Josep Antoni; Martín-Sánchez, V.; Pintó Sala, Xavier; Vidal i Cortada, Josep; Vázquez, Clotilde; Daimiel, Lidia; Ros Rahola, Emilio; Fernández Aranda, Fernando; Nishi, Stephanie K; Garcia-Regata, Oscar; Toledo, Estefanía; Asensio, Eva M; Castañer Niño, Olga; Garcia-Rios, Antonio; Torres-Collado, Laura; Gómez Gracia, Enrique; Zulet, M. Angeles; Goñi Ruiz, Nuria; Casas Rodríguez, Rosa M.; Cano Ibáñez, Naomi; Tojal Sierra, Lucas; Gómez-Perez, AM; Sorlí, José V.; Cinza-Sanjurjo, Sergio; Martín-Peláez, Sandra; Peña-Orihuela, Patricia J; Oncina-Canovas, Alejandro; Perez-Araluce, Rafael; Zomeño, Maria Dolores; Chaplin, Alice; Delgado Rodriguez, Miguel; Babio, Nancy; Fitó Colomer, Montserrat; Salas-Salvadó, Jordi
Background: Cross-sectionally, older age and obesity are associated with increased coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) risk. We assessed the longitudinal associations of baseline and changes in adiposity parameters with COVID-19 incidence in older adults at high cardiovascular risk. Methods: This analysis included 6874 men and women (aged 55-75 years) with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome in the PREDIMED-Plus lifestyle intervention trial for cardiovascular risk reduction. Body weight, body-mass-index (BMI), waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and a body shape index (ABSI) were measured at baseline and annual follow-up visits. COVID-19 was ascertained by an independent Event Committee until 31 December 2021. Cox regression models were fitted to evaluate the risk of COVID-19 incidence based on baseline adiposity parameters measured 5-6 years before the pandemic and their changes at the visit prior to censoring. Results: At the time of censoring, 653 incident COVID-19 cases occurred. Higher baseline body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and WHtR were associated with increased COVID-19 risk. During the follow-up, every unit increase in body weight (HRadj (95%CI): 1.01 (1.00, 1.03)) and BMI (HRadj: 1.04 (1.003, 1.08)) was associated with increased COVID-19 risk. Conclusions: In older adults with overweight/obesity, clinically significant weight loss may protect against COVID-19.
Bitter taste receptors: Key target to understand the effects of polyphenols on glucose and body weight homeostasis. Pathophysiological and pharmacological implications
(Elsevier B.V., 2024) Trius Soler, Marta; Moreno Aznárez, Juan José
Experimental and clinical research has reported beneficial effects of polyphenol intake on high prevalent diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. These phytochemicals are ligands of taste 2 receptors (T2Rs) that have been recently located in a variety of organs and extra-oral tissues. Therefore, the interaction between polyphenol and T2Rs in brain structures can play a direct effect on appetite/satiety regulation and food intake. T2Rs are also expressed along the digestive tract, and their interaction with polyphenols can induce the release of gastrointestinal hormones (e.g., ghrelin, GLP-1, CCK) influencing appetite, gastrointestinal functionally, and glycemia control. Intestinal microbiota can also influence on network effects of polyphenols-T2Rs interaction and vice versa, impacting innate immune responses and consequently on gut functionally. Furthermore, polyphenols binding to T2Rs present important effects on adipose tissue metabolism. Interestingly, T2R polymorphism could, at least partially, explain the inter-individual variability of the effects of polyphenols on glucose and body weight homeostasis. Together, these factors can contribute to understand the beneficial effects of polyphenol-rich diets but also might aid in identifying new pharmacological pathway targets for the treatment of diabetes and obesity.
Tracking Soil Organic Carbon and Nitrogen under Organic Management: A Temporal Perspective
(MDPI, 2025-10-11) Bragg, Daniel; Romanyà i Socoró, Joan; Blanco Moreno, José Manuel; Sans, Xavier (Sans i Serra)
Understanding the long-term impact of agricultural practices on soil parameters is essential for improving soil quality and sustainability. Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) and total Nitrogen (N) are key indicators due to their influence on crop productivity, nutrient cycling, and microbial activity. This study assesses the effects of tillage intensity (inversion vs. non-inversion) and organic amendments (manure vs. no manure) on SOC and total N dynamics in Mediterranean rain-fed arable systems. Data were collected over a ten-year field trial (2011–2020) in Catalonia, under cereal–legume rotation and organic management, focusing on two soil depths (0–10 and 10–20 cm). Fertilization was the main driver of SOC and N changes. Non-inversion tillage promoted topsoil accumulation and microbial colonization, especially during the first period (2011–2015). The combination of manure and reduced tillage led to faster and greater SOC increases. Moreover, initial SOC levels were negatively related to SOC changes in the topsoil. These results revealed the combination of manure and non-inversion tillage as the more suitable management practice to preserve soil quality in organic arable rain-fed systems, emphasizing the importance of understanding the impact of agricultural management in the long-term under Mediterranean conditions.
Efficacy of Erwinia amylovora and Xanthomonas campestris pv campestris phages to control fire blight and black rot in vivo
(American Society for Microbiology, 2025-05-16) Vique, Gloria; Mendonza Barberá, Elena de; Ramos-Barbero, Maria Dolores; Blanco-Picazo, Pedro; Sala Comorera, Laura; Quirós, Pablo; Atares, Sergio; Salaet, Ignasi; Muniesa Pérez, Ma. Teresa; Rodríguez-Rubio, Lorena
Phytopathogens, such as Erwinia amylovora and Xanthomonas campestris, pose significant threats to agriculture, leading to substantial economic losses. Traditional chemical pesticides can harm soil fertility, contaminate water, and impact non-target organisms such as natural predators and pollinators, highlighting the need for sustainable pest control methods. This study explores the use of bacteriophages as biocontrol agents against E. amylovora, which causes fire blight, and X. campestris pv. campestris, responsible for black rot in cruciferous vegetables. Bacteriophages were isolated from urban wastewater and tested for their lytic activity against these pathogens. Three virulent phages were identified: ɸEF1 and ɸEF2 against E. amylovora and ɸXF1 against X. campestris pv. campestris. Genetic analysis confirmed the absence of known lysogeny-related genes, indicating that these phages are ideal candidates for biocontrol applications. In vitro assays demonstrated significant bacterial population reductions. Specifically, ɸEF1 killed 92.1% of the E. amylovora population at a multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 1 after 3 h, while ɸEF2 reduced the population by 98.1%. When combined in a 1:1 ratio, the two phages reduced E. amylovora populations by 99.7%, and no regrowth of resistant cells was observed, which was not the case when the phages were applied individually. ɸXF1 killed 99.9% of X. campestris pv. campestris populations at an MOI of 1 after 5 h. In vivo experiments using pears and kohlrabi as infection models further validated the phage effectiveness. Treated pears showed reduced fire blight symptoms, and kohlrabi plants exhibited markedly less necrosis from black rot compared to untreated controls.
Immunogenic Properties of a Novel Hepatitis A Vaccine Candidate Based on a Fast-Growing Viral Strain
(MDPI, 2025-04-23) Costafreda Salvany, M. Isabel (Maria Isabel); Massot Cladera, Malen; Chavarria Miró, Gemma; Arrebola, Alba; Franch i Masferrer, Àngels; Rodríguez Lagunas, María José; Martínez-Velázquez, Adán; Blanco Ortiz, Albert; Bosch, Albert; Guix Arnau, Susana; Castell, Margarida; Pintó Solé, Rosa María
Background/Objectives: Hepatitis A virus (HAV) yearly causes over 150 million new infections and around 40,000 deaths. Current vaccines are based on strains that grow poorly in cell culture, leading to high production costs and limited availability. This study aimed to compare the immunogenic properties of a novel HAV vaccine candidate based on the fast-growing HM175-HP strain with those of the parental slow-growing HM175-L0 strain, which derives from the cytopathic HM175 strain, like the prototype strain used in certain existing vaccines. Methods: The humoral and cellular immune response elicited by either HM175-HP or HM175-L0 vaccines was assessed in female BALB/c mice. Results: Both HM175-HP and HM175-L0 vaccines induced comparable levels of anti-HAV IgG, as well as similar numbers of antibody-secreting cells and cellular proliferation rates in immunized mice. Importantly, anti-HAV antibodies developed by HM175-HP-immunized mice were able to neutralize the HM175-L0 strain. In addition, both vaccines induced anti-HAV IgG1 antibodies, which are associated with Th2 immune response, but the HM175-HP vaccine showed a tendency to produce a greater IgG2a response, suggesting that it might elicit a higher Th1 response, which is of utmost importance for host defense against viruses. Conclusions: Our findings indicated that the fast-growing HM175-HP strain has similar immunogenic properties to the vaccine prototype-like HM175-L0, making it a promising candidate to reduce the elevated costs and time-consuming procedures of producing the current HAV vaccines. The novel HM175-HP-based vaccine would therefore facilitate mass vaccination programs and prevent vaccine shortages.
Characteristics of Non-Therapeutic Pregabalin Users Detected by a Community Pharmacies Network in a Region of Southern Europe
(MDPI, 2024-10-01) Perelló, Maria; Rio-Aige, Karla; Rius, Pilar; Pérez-Cano, Francisco J.; Rabanal i Tornero, Manel
Background: Since 2008, several cases of pregabalin abuse have been reported to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA). Despite this evidence, gabapentinoids are increasingly being prescribed. Moreover, pregabalin is being used in a recreational setting for its dissociative effects and euphoria. Objectives: To assess the characteristics of non-therapeutic users of pregabalin and to show behavioral trends associated with requests for the medicine at community pharmacies. Methods: The Medicine Abuse Observatory (MAO), an epidemiological surveillance system, was able to analyze trends about the most diverted drugs and the behavioral patterns of the population from community pharmacies. We have conducted an observational and cross-sectional study from January 2022 to April 2023, to determinate trends in the behavior of patients who have requested pregabalin in the Catalan Sephanet. Results: Behavior with respect to sex was similar in all health problems, although one difference was raised when considering neuropathic pain, in which the females were more involved (72.7%), especially around 2.5 times more than the males (27.3%, p < 0.05). The study showed a potential recreational use related to patients aged <25 years and patients aged 25–35 years (p < 0.05). Neuropathic pain was mainly identified in patients >65 years. In 75% of the cases, there was a preceding prescription. Conclusions: This study underlines the evidence of non-therapeutic use of pregabalin among the Catalan population and the need to take control measures. Actions should be promoted, both at the level of prescription and dispensing, and focusing on education and knowledge about the risks that may appear with the use of pregabalin. Keywords: pregabalin; prescription drug abuse; misuse; community pharmacy; neuropathic pain
Meat authentication based on animal species and other quality meat attributes (protected geographical indication, organic production, and Halal and Kosher products) by HPLC-UV fingerprinting and chemometrics
(Springer Science + Business Media, 2025-06-11) Santomá Martí, Alexandra; Aijon, Nil; Núñez Burcio, Oscar
A simple and economic high-performance liquid chromatography with UV-vis detection (HPLC-UV) metabolomic fingerprinting methodology was developed and applied after a water extraction procedure to obtain sample chemical descriptors suitable for meat authentication by chemometrics. 300 meat samples involving different species (lamb, beef, pork, rabbit, quail, chicken, turkey, and duck) as well as different non-genetic attributes (protected geographical indications, organic production, and Halal and Kosher meats) were analyzed, and the obtained HPLC-UV fingerprints subjected to PCA and PLS-DA for classification and authentication. Excellent PLS-DA discrimination and classification performance was accomplished for calibration and cross-validation, with sensitivity and specificity values higher than 100% and 99.3%, respectively, and classification errors below 0.4%, when meat species were considered. The prediction capability when employing a classification decision tree consisting on consecutive dual PLS-DA models built using a hierarchical model builder was of 100% accuracy when 48 meat samples were subjected to the model as unknown samples. Multiclass PLS-DA classification performances when addressing meat geographical origin, organic productions and Halal and Kosher products were also very acceptable, with overall sensitivity and specificity values higher than 91.2%, and classification errors below 6.9%. Finally, fraudulent meat adulteration cases involving PGI, organic and Halal and Kosher adulterated meats were evaluated by partial least squares (PLS) regression, allowing the detection and quantitation of adulteration levels within the range from 15-85% with prediction errors below 6.6%, demonstrating the suitability of the proposed methodology to assess meat authenticity.
SPME-GC-MS and chemometrics for coffee characterization, classification and authentication
(Elsevier B.V., 2025-04-24) Núñez, Nerea; Moret, Erica; Lucci, Paolo; Moret, Sabrina; Saurina, Javier; Núñez Burcio, Oscar
In recent decades, the complexity of the food chain has contributed to a surge of food adulteration issues, resulting in numerous instances of food fraud. For this reason, ensuring the authenticity of food is crucial for society as a whole. In this context, beverages are particularly vulnerable to adulteration by adding flavors and aromas or incorporating unspecified substances to enhance volume, among other deceptive practices.This work focuses on the detection of fraud in coffee, one of the world’s most popular beverages, which is a product easily prone to manipulation. Fingerprinting studies of volatile compounds in 185 samples were performed by gas chromatography (with polar and non-polar columns) coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and in combination with chemometrics for data analysis. In this group of samples, 42 were chicory, 96 were coffee of different species and geographical production regions, and 47 were soluble coffees. Headspace-solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) was employed to obtain the volatile compounds in the samples directly from the solid coffee. The GC–MS fingerprints served as reliablechemical descriptors for the classification of coffee samples using chemometrics. Moreover, some compounds found in samples were tentatively identified using NIST Research Libraries.Furthermore, two adulteration coffee studies were performed using partial least squares (PLS) regression, which demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed methodology for the quantification of adulterant levels up to 15%, with calibration and prediction errors below 2.9% and 7.4%, respectively.

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