• Association between sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and constructs of the Health Belief Model in young adult students at the University of Chester

  Ndubuisi, Goodluck Chiemela; Fallows, Stephen; Michael Okpara University of Agriculture; University of Chester (World Public Health Nutrition Association, 2024-09-30)

  Background: Young adults are reported as one of the major consumers of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) globally and the consumption of SSBs is associated with long-term medical conditions. The Health Belief Model (HBM) has been applied to understand SSB consumption by children and adolescents through the use of its constructs. There is a gap in knowlege of HBM application to SSB consumption of young adults. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to fill this gap. Objective: The primary objective of the study was to determine if an association existed between SSB consumption status and the constructs of the HBM: perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived barriers, perceived benefits, self-efficacy, and cues in young adult students. Design: Cross-sectional data were obtained using an online self-administered structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and Chi-squared (X2) test for association were used to analyse the data. Setting: Participants were recruited via email and WhatsApp. Participants: Seventy young adult students aged 18 to 30 years studying at the University of Chester, England. Results: The mean age of the participants was 25.5 years (SD: 3.0). 53% consumed SSBs on a given day. Postgraduates (58%), Blacks (52%), and Asian students (70%) had the greater percentages of SSB consumers. There was a very strong significant association between SSB consumption status and level of perceived severity of diseases from a high intake of SSBs, X2 (1, N = 70) = 6.94, P = 0.01, Cramer’s V = 0.32. Also, a very strong association existed between SSB consumption status and self-efficacy level to control SSB intake, X2 (1, N = 70) = 8.83, P = 0.00, Cramer’s V = 0.36. Conclusions: A high percentage of young adult students especially those from minority ethnic groups in the UK consumed SSBs which indicates that targeted initiatives at these groups are required to control their intake. Interventions to control SSB intake in young adult students should consider increasing their level of perceived severity of diseases from a high intake of SSBs and self-efficacy to control SSB intake. We recommend actions that can further increase their awareness of how serious diseases from a high intake of SSBs are. We also recommend measures intended to increase the confidence of young adult students in their ability to avoid SSBs when they are stressed, after writing exam, when they are eating, and when they engage in sedentary activities. In particular, modifying their environment to prevent the availability of SSBs at home and regulating the promotion and cost (via taxation) of SSBs in stores would help to increase their self- efficacy level. Further studies to determine why a greater percentage of postgraduate students are consuming SSBs despite their level of education is required. More comprehensive research on SSB consumption in young adults using the HBM is necessary.
• Analytical data of Acacia nilotica var. Nilotica gum

  Satti, Amira A. E.; Osman, Mohammed E.; Hassan, Elfatih A.; Al-Assaf, Saphwan; Jouf University; Sudan University of Science and Technology; University of Chester (Chemical Society of Ethiopia, 2024-04-30)

  This study aimed to characterize the exudate gum from Acacia nilotica var. nilotica in Sudan and compare its physicochemical properties to Acacia seyal var. seyal and Acacia senegal var. senegal (gum Arabic). Samples were collected from six different states in Sudan over three seasons. The gum had a moisture content of 10.50%, ash content of 1.86%, pH value of 5.19, specific optical rotation of +94.70, intrinsic viscosity of 10.44 cm3 g-1, nitrogen content of 0.024%, protein content of 0.16%, acid equivalent weight of 1907.82, and total uronic acid content of 10.18%. Sugar content analysis revealed arabinose (41.20%), galactose (17.43%), and rhamnose (10.68%). Potassium was the predominant cation, followed by calcium, magnesium, sodium, lead, and iron. Acacia nilotica was classified as part of the Gummeferae series and exhibited a positive specific optical rotation. The Number average molecular weight (Mn) was estimated using osmometric measurements and gel permeation chromatography. The gum had a higher molecular weight and lower intrinsic viscosity compared to gum Arabic, suggesting a spheroidal shape of molecule. Amino acid analysis showed similarities with gum Arabic, with hydroxyproline and serine as principal amino acids. Variations in cationic composition were attributed to differences in soil type among collection locations.
• Using Photovoice to explore adults' perceptions towards obesity and factors influencing food choice and physical activity in North Lebanon

  Al Kattan, Malika; Fallows, Stephen; Kennedy, Lynne; University of Westminster; University of Chester; Qatar University (Cambridge University Press, 2025-10-13)

  OBJECTIVE: To explore adults' perceptions towards obesity and factors influencing eating behaviour and physical activity in North Lebanon, using a variation of the Photovoice method. DESIGN: This research is part of a broader qualitative study exploring factors influencing the rising levels of obesity and understanding the barriers and enablers for effective policy for obesity prevention using a socio-ecological model as a guiding framework. For this study, a variation of "Photovoice" was used to collect photographs to explore participants' perspectives of obesity and its causes in Lebanon, using these photographs to generate discussion in one-to-one face-to-face interviews. Inductive and deductive thematic analyses were used to analyse the transcribed interviews. SETTING: Tripoli, North Governorate, Lebanon. PARTICIPANTS: Twenty Lebanese adults aged 20-64 years were recruited. RESULTS: The participants (n=20) generated 257 photographs representing various factors perceived to be associated with rising obesity in Lebanon: changes in the food and eating landscape, sedentary behaviours, food environments, eating out, and food marketing on social media platforms. Several themes specific to Lebanon were also identified, including the perceptions towards obesity, the central role of women in Lebanese food preparation and the family, and the sociocultural importance of food and social gatherings. CONCLUSION: This study highlights how influences across the five levels of the socio-ecological model shaped the participants' food choices and physical activity levels. Collaborative initiatives and public policies are necessary to address the identified barriers and curb the increasing prevalence of obesity in Lebanon.
• Processing optimisation, molecular characterisation, and anti-cancer activities of arabinoxylans extracted from corn bran in vitro

  Li, Weili; Wang, Qiuyu; Cui, Zhimin (University of Chester, 2024-04)

  Background: Arabinoxylans (AXs) are the main non-starch polysaccharides that widely exist in by-products of cereal processing. The anti-cancer activities, such as inhibiting cancer cell proliferation and promoting apoptosis, of AXs which are extracted from various cereal materials have been reported recently. However, the possible relationship between the structures and anti-cancer activities of AXs have not yet been established and proposed. The anti-cancer mechanisms of AXs are unknown. The aims of this study were to develop and optimise the AXs combined extraction treatment from selected cereals, characterise the molecular structure and measure the anti-cancer activities of AXs extracts in vitro to explore the possible relationship between their structures and anti-cancer activity, and propose the potential mechanisms. Methods: The alkaline (A) extraction method, hydrothermal (H) extraction method, and a low concentration alkaline-assisted hydrothermal (LAH) extraction method were used to extract AXs from cereal materials. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods were used to characterise the molecular structure and monocular composi6on of extracted AXs. The anti-cancer effects of extracted AXs on the viability, proliferation cycle and apoptosis of human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line (AGS) cells were assessed in vitro using flow cytometry. The mRNA expressions of selected genes related to cell growth and apoptosis control were measured by RT-qPCR analysis and the protein expressions were tested by Western blot assay. Results: Under the optimum extraction condi6ons of LAH, the extraction rate of AXs reached 33.31%, which is about 7 6mes of H extraction (4.65%) and no significant difference when compared with that of A-AXs (32.34%) (p ≥ 0.05). Compared to molecular characteristics of AAXs., LAH-AXs extracts have a lower percentage (23.68%) of low molecular weight range (0.01KDa to 10.00KDa), which is 29.71%, and a higher ferulic acid (FA) content (0.64 mg/g), which is 7 6mes compared to A-AXs (0.09mg/g). In vitro studies showed that both LAH-AXs and A-AXs at optimised concentra6on of 50 μg /ml were able to significantly inhibit the proliferation of AGS and significantly promote apoptosis in AGS cells in 24 hrs treatment (p ≤0.05). Furthermore, in the examination of the mechanism of AXs anti-cancer activities, the cell cycle analysis results demonstrated that both LAH-AXs and A-AXs treatment significantly increased the accumula6on of AGS cells in the S phase, which is 1.4-fold compared with negative control (p ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, both LAH-AXs and A-AXs significantly up-regulated the mRNA expressions of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor p21 and pro-apoptosis genes Bad and Bid. Differently, LAH-AXs significantly up-regulated caspase-8 mRNA expression (2.33-fold) and pERK protein expression levels (1.4-fold) compared with negative control (p ≤ 0.05), whereas A-AXs did not show a significant impact in this regard. Conclusions: At optimal conditions for LAH-AXs-C extraction, the extraction rate can reach levels comparable to those achieved with high alkaline concentrations (8%). Molecular characterisations indicate variations in molecular distribution, molecular composition and FA content between LAH-AXs-C and A-AXs-C. The distinct effects of LAH-AXs-C and A-AXs-C on the cell cycle arrest occurring at different stages. A decrease in cell viability and induction of apoptosis in AGS cells, may be attributed to the differences in their structures. The underlying mechanisms of their anti-cancer activities possibly involve regulation through the Bcl-2 family signalling pathway and the ERK signalling pathway, which are suggested by the up-regulation of mRNA expressions level of p21 and the pro-apoptosis genes Bad, Bid and protein pERK. Moreover, the upregulation in caspase-8 (2.33-fold) expression indicates the activation of extrinsic pathway. This study optimised the extraction method for AXs, which significantly increased the extraction rate (р≤0.05). It also characterised the structure of AXs and explored their potential anti-cancer effects, providing an initial understanding of the relationship between the structure and bioactivities of AXs at the molecular level.
• Effects of transglutaminase and epigallocatechin gallate on the structural and physicochemical properties of fish skin gelatin from Takifugu rubripes

  Han, Lingyu; Zhang, Yulong; Hu, Bing; Zhang, Ying; Cao, Jijuan; Yang, Jixin; Al-Assaf, Saphwan; Dalian Minzu University; Wrexham University; University of Chester (MDPI, 2025-09-11)

  Fish skin gelatin (FG) has garnered considerable attention as a potential substitute for mammalian gelatin. In this study, Takifugu rubripes skin gelatin was chemically modified using transglutaminase (TG) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Subsequently, the rheological, structural, and physicochemical properties of FG modified with varying concentrations of TG and EGCG were systematically examined and compared. As the concentrations of TG and EGCG increased, more extensive interactions occurred in FG, leading to a significant enhancement of gelatin properties. Following modification, the molecular weight of FG proteins increased, and this was accompanied by enhanced surface hydrophobicity and gel strength. Rheological analysis further demonstrated that the viscosity of FG modified with TG and EGCG was higher than that of unmodified FG and was positively correlated with the treatment concentrations of TG and EGCG. Additionally, the results indicated that the effect of TG modification was more pronounced than that of EGCG modification. Overall, this study demonstrates that both TG and EGCG modifications can effectively overcome the inherent limitations of fish skin gelatin, with TG showing superior efficiency as a cross-linking agent. The enhanced thermal stability, gel strength, and rheological properties achieved through these interactions significantly expand the potential applications of fish gelatin in the food industry, making it a more viable alternative to mammalian gelatin.
• The Influence of Ethnic and Prevailing Cultures on the Dietary Practices of Adult Immigrant Nigerians Living in the UK: A Phenomenological Study Using the Bourdiuesian Lens

  Ellahi, Basma; Sharma, Manisha; Johnson, Babatunde Benjamin (University of Chester, 2024-09)

  Introduction: Morbidity and mortality from preventable diseases among ethnic minority groups, including the Nigerian community, are higher when compared with the white population group in the UK. Evidence suggests that diet is a major modifiable disease risk factor for many chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and dementia. Diet depends on several other factors, including culture, affordability, availability of food, particularly those commonly consumed by the community. Changes to diet (a process known as dietary acculturation) are reported to negatively impact the health of ethnic minority groups post-migration. However, published models of dietary acculturation only explain the changes and processes and not the underlying reasons for dietary change post-migration. Furthermore, understanding of the reasons for dietary change, the influence of culture, and other factors on the dietary practices and health of the Nigerian community and other ethnic minority populations in the UK is limited. This study explores the impact of dietary choices in the immigrant Nigerian community living in the UK, within the context of culture and other factors. Exploring the reasons for dietary change and the influence of culture using a sociological lens, namely Bourdieu’s theory of practice, is useful to better understand the development of health inequalities among ethnic communities. Methods: This thesis is situated within the interpretivism paradigm, driven by Heidegger’s phenomenological existentialism as a theoretical framework, with Bourdieu’s theory of practice used as the conceptual framework. iv Integrating existential phenomenology and Bourdieu’s theory enhanced the assumptions about the nature of existence or reality and helped to extend knowledge and understanding of the topic researched. Using a Hermeneutic phenomenological design, a qualitative research methodology that entails exploring individuals lived experiences, and with the aid of purposive sampling, community networks, and snowballing, were leveraged to assist in recruiting participants, based on socioeconomic factors, from the adult Nigerian population in Manchester and London. Using an informed consent process, seventeen one-to-one telephone semi-structured interviews were undertaken, enabling detailed information about culture, dietary choices, and finances to be collected. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Braun and Clark’s six-step guide reflexive thematic analysis approach, and Bourdieu’s theory of practice to guide and extend further the meaning of the data. Results: Viewing findings through the lens of Bourdieu's theory of practice, interactions between the concepts of habitus, field, and capital assist in explaining the retention of the Nigerian traditional dietary practice and the adoption of food regarded as unhealthy as a direct response to the increasing cost-of-living crisis. Other findings that were not the focus of the thesis were revealed. For example, most participants had limited knowledge of health-related diseases, healthy diets, and an understanding of health promotion resources. Furthermore, participants report what they now eat, and activities adopted to support eating in response to the increasing cost-of-living crisis. Conclusion: Dietary acculturation is inevitable among immigrant population. Embedding sociological theory in understanding diet related phenomenon is important to better understand health inequalities related to diet. Holding on to ethnic and cultural diets and the adoption of unhealthy dietary practices cause concern since energy-dense and nutrient-poor, low-quality diets are high-risk factors for chronic diseases. The need to develop culturally appropriate strategies to support healthy eating on a budget for this ethnic group is paramount to prevent poor health outcomes. Findings can be used for developing strategies and interventions aimed at reducing the widening ethnic health inequalities v concerning known diet-related disease risk factors
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  Stakeholders' perspectives on adolescent obesity prevention amid the nutrition transition in Lebanon

  Bou Kheir, Miriam; Fallows, Stephen; Kennedy, Lynne; Lebanese University; University of Chester; Zayed University (Center for Ethnic and Cultural Studies, 2025-06-23)

  Adolescent obesity has become a major public health concern globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries undergoing rapid Nutrition Transitions. Lebanon, a middle-income country in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, has experienced substantial shifts in dietary patterns and physical activity levels in recent decades, contributing to an alarming rise in obesity among youth. This qualitative study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of key stakeholders in Lebanon regarding the multilevel determinants of adolescent obesity, as well as the challenges and opportunities for effective prevention strategies in this context. The study explored stakeholders' views on the drivers of adolescent obesity in Lebanon at the individual, interpersonal, community, organizational, and policy levels. The findings underscore the critical need for comprehensive, multilevel, multistakeholder approaches to address the root causes of adolescent obesity in Lebanon. This study provides timely and contextually relevant insights that can inform the development of effective and sustainable strategies to prevent and control adolescent obesity in Lebanon. It also contributes to the growing literature on the challenges and opportunities for tackling the global burden of obesity in the context of rapid Nutrition Transitions in low- and middle-income countries.
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  SCCS Opinion on Biphenyl-2-ol and Sodium 2-biphenylolate used in cosmetic products (CAS/EC No. 90-43-7/201-993-5 and 132-27-4/205-055-6)– SCCS/1669/24

  Bernauer, Ulrike; Bodin, Laurent; Chaudhry, Qasim; Coenraads, Pieter Jan; Ezendam, Janine; Gaffet, Eric; Galli, Corrado L.; Panteri, Eirini; Rogiers, Vera; Rousselle, Christophe; et al. (Elsevier, 2025-06-04)

  ‘Biphenyl-2-ol’ and ‘Sodium 2-biphenylolate’ (CAS/EC No. 90-43-7/201-993-5 and 132-27-4/205-055-6) are known with the INCI names ‘o-Phenylphenol’ and Sodium ‘o-Phenylphenate’, respectively, as cosmetic ingredients. The use of o-Phenylphenol as a preservative is currently authorised in entry 7 of Annex V to the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No.1223/2009, with a maximum concentration of 0.15 % (as phenol) in leave-on and 0.2 % (as phenol) in rinse-off cosmetic products. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) adopted an opinion on o-Phenylphenol (OPP), Sodium o-Phenylphenate (SOPP), and Potassium o-Phenylphenate (POPP) (SCCS/1555/15) in June 2015, later revised on 15 December 2015, with the following conclusion: ‘Based on the information provided, no conclusions of safe use can be drawn for Sodium o-Phenylphenate and Potassium o-Phenylphenate’. In 2018, the SCCS released an addendum to the above scientific opinion, specifically addressing Sodium o-Phenylphenate, Potassium o-Phenylphenate, and MEA o-Phenylphenate. The SCCS concluded that ‘Due to the lack of relevant information, the SCCS is unable to answer the question regarding the safe use level of sodium-OPP, potassium-OPP, and MEA-OPP. In the SCCS's view, a direct comparison between the safety of o-Phenylphenate (OPP) and its three compounds cannot be made’. The conclusions of this opinion resulted in amending entry 7 of Annex V to the Cosmetics Regulation, removing from the list the previously authorised OPP salts. It should be noted that o-Phenylphenol, Sodium and Potassium o-Phenylphenate are active ingredients in broad-spectrum fungicides surface biocides. Under EU biocidal Regulation (EU) 528/2012, o-Phenylphenol has been evaluated for the different product types (PTs) such as PT 1, PT 2, PT4, PT 6 as a preservative ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 % w/w. The European Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) of ECHA issued in December 2022 an opinion recommending among others a classification for o-Phenylphenol as ‘Carcinogen of Category 2’. Following the RAC opinion, the European Commission may propose a classification for o-Phenylphenol as a ‘Carc.2’ (CLP Regulation Annex VI entry). According to Article 15(1) of the Cosmetics Regulation ‘the use in cosmetic products of substances classified as CMR substances, of category 2, under Part 3 of Annex VI to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 shall be prohibited. However, a substance classified in category 2 may be used in cosmetic products where the substance has been evaluated by the SCCS and found safe for use in cosmetic products’. In view of these provisions, regulatory measures must be adopted by the Commission services within 15 months of the classification as CMR 1A or 1B of the substance(s) concerned in Part 3 of Annex VI to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. In December 2023, the Commission services received a dossier to defend the safe use of o-Phenylphenol, as well as its sodium salt (CAS/EC No. 90-43-7/201-993-5 and 132-27-4/205-055-6) as preservatives in cosmetic products according to Article 15(1) of the Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. The Commission, therefore, requests the SCCS to carry out a safety assessment on these ingredients in view of the information provided.
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  An Investigation of Hydrocolloids Film Forming Ability on a Vertically Rotating Disc

  Miah, Salim; McMillan, Alison; Al-Assaf, Saphwan; University of Hertfordshire; Wrexham University; University of Chester (Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, 2023-12-30)

  Hydrocolloids are widely used in the food industry to perform variety of functions such as coatings, thickening, emulsifying, stabilizing and edible films. Their functionality for a given application are underpinned by the molecular weight, shape, and conformation in aqueous solution. The film forming ability of selected hydrocolloids, different in shape (rod, random coil and spherical) and/or conformation in aqueous solution were investigated experimentally and numerically on a vertically rotating disc. These include: xanthan, pectin, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and gum arabic. The Laser scan method was used for the measurement of film thickness of the respective the hydrocolloids. The Volume of Fluid (VOF) Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling approach was used in the numerical model. The variation in film formation at different concentrations has been observed to ascertain a trend. Both the experimental and simulation results revealed that the film formation depends on the molecular structure of the hydrocolloid while viscosity and rotating speed significantly influenced the film thickness. Xanthan showed higher film formation ability compared to the other hydrocolloids due to its higher viscosity. It was interesting to note that the film formation ability by CMC was significantly higher than pectin though pectin was five times more viscous than CMC. Gum arabic exhibited the lowest viscosity but formed almost the same film thickness on the disc as pectin despite being twenty times less viscous. Increasing CMC concentration from 0.5% to 1% resulted in increasing its viscosity and the film thickness. The film thickness increased at the disc rotating speed of 6 rpm as compared to 3 rpm. The simulation results were in good agreement with the experimental data.
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  Potential for behaviour change among Kenyan type 2 diabetes service users and to understand behaviour change from healthcare professionals’ perspectives

  Fallows, Stephen; Waithaka, Eve N. (University of Chester, 2024)

  Introduction: The rising type two diabetes mellitus (T2DM) prevalence is largely due to unhealthy dietary practices, lack of physical activity, economic development, urbanisation, and an ageing population. Management of T2DM involves pharmacological treatment and or lifestyle behaviour changes focusing on diet and physical activity behaviour modifications. Diet and physical activity behaviour modifications are crucial in T2DM management. However, behaviour change is complex and challenging and more so in diet and physical activity behaviours as these are influenced by a myriad of behavioural, social, emotional and environmental, neuroendocrine and genetic factors. Behaviour change thus remains one of the most significant public health concerns. Underpinning this research study is the continued challenge with behaviour change among T2DM service users that leads to development of T2DM related complications and even death. The purpose of this study was therefore to examine the likelihood to change behaviour so as to avoid T2DM related complications and to explore whether being in receipt of the recommended care services had any influence on likelihood to change behaviour. This is particularly important because numerous interventions have been carried out but while change may be initially noted, the positive behaviour is in many cases not sustained over time. The main impact of this study to provide an understanding on the influences of behaviour change as influenced by the health belief model and to explore hinderances to access to the diabetes recommended care services. Methods: The study utilised a mixed-method approach to gain an in-depth comprehension of the topic. The target population for the study comprised of T2DM service users at the Thika Level 5 Hospital diabetes comprehensive clinic and healthcare professionals directly involved in T2DM management. Through power calculations, a sample size of 346 service users was determined. Forty three healthcare professionals were also included in the study as key informants. The inclusion criterion for the diabetes clinic service users was persons diagnosed with type two diabetes and aged 20-70. The inclusion criterion for the healthcare professionals was those who directly worked with service users with regards to behaviour change. Purposive sampling was used in selecting the participants for the study. The exclusion criterion for the service users was those who had type one diabetes or were aged below 20 or above 70 years. For the healthcare professionals, those not directly involved with type two diabetes service users behaviour change (diet and physical activity) were not included in the study. Questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data from the service users. Semi-structured individual interviews were used to collect data from the healthcare professionals. Quantitative data was coded and entered into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, Version 28.0, for analysis. Qualitative data was entered into Nvivo 13 for thematic analysis. Findings: Behaviour change among healthcare professionals and T2DM service users is based on four constructs of the health belief model: susceptibility to complications, intention to exercise, perceived benefits of exercise and health eating and healthy eating intentions (likened to cues to action). Different factors that affect T2DM management are categorised into predisposing factors, reinforcing factors and enabling factors. Management processes of T2DM should include primary targets to prevent T2DM, primary targets towards promoting behaviour change, actions engaged in the management of T2DM, multi-sectorial approaches and actions by other sectors. Conclusion: According to the study, behaviour change is perceived differently among healthcare professionals and service users. The study therefore recommends that tailored messages should be delivered to different categories of patients so as to enhance behaviour change. The health belief model should be adopted in crafting the messages so as to so as to effectively address complications (perceived susceptibility and severity) associated with T2DM, perceived barriers, perceived benefits, and self-efficacy for behaviour change to be effective. A “one size fits all” approach is not recommended when coming up with interventions towards behaviour change. Further, the study also concludes that policy makers in the Kenyan health system should consider predisposing factors, reinforcing factors and enabling factors towards T2DM management policy making. Since T2DM management involves different targets, the Kenyan health system should engage different stakeholders. A “one size fits all” approach is therefore not appropriate towards T2DM management.
• UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS identification, antioxidant, and alpha-glucosidase inhibition activities of three forms of phenolic compounds from Yemeni jujube fruit: In vitro and in silico investigations

  Aleryani, Hamzah; Abdo, Abdullah A. A.; Al-Assaf, Saphwan; Al-Zamani, Zakarya; Auriol Ivane, Ngoua Moffo; Guifang, Tian; Al-Romaima, Abdulbaset; Tan, Jianxin; Sang, Yaxin; Hebei Agricultural University; University of Chester; Ibb University; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Iowa State University (Elsevier, 2025-03-12)

  Jujube fruits have rich medicinal value due to their biological properties which are affected mainly by geographical locations. This study investigates the antioxidant properties of free fraction (FF), esterified fraction (EF), bound fraction (BF), and other metabolites prepared from dried Yemeni jujube fruit and compare to those previously reported in the literature. Results from UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis showed that this fruit consists of a total of 33, 26, and 27 free, esterified, and bound compounds identified, respectively. In terms of ABTS, DPPH, FRAP, and H₂O₂ assays, the BF exhibited values 1.2, 1.3,1.3, and 1.4 times higher than those of the FF, and similarly, 1.8, 1.9,2.0, and 2.5 times higher than the EF. A similar trend was observed in the inhibition of α-glucosidase (α-Glu), where the BF was 1.6, and 2.4 times more effective compared to the FF and EF, respectively. In silico analysis showed that flavonoids, the key active compounds, had substantial α-glucosidase binding capacity. In the meat model, all fractions inhibited protein and lipid oxidation during storage, and the BF exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity. This study provides the first investigation of the structure of active compounds and their biological properties in Yemeni jujube fruit. Yemeni fruits can be utilized as natural antioxidants, and nutraceuticals in food preservation, and medicine respectively.
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  A 12-week double-blind randomised controlled trial investigating the effect of dietary supplementation with 125 µg/d vitamin D in adults with asthma – ERRATUM

  Watkins, Stephanie; Harrison, Tanja; Mushtaq, Sohail; University of Chester (Cambridge University Press, 2024-09-28)

  Erratum
• Analytical study on secondary metabolites extraction and characterization from Acacia Gums (AGs)

  Elnour, Ahmed A. M.; Al-Assaf, Saphwan; Kabbashi, Nassereldeen Ahmed; Osman, Mohammed Elmubark; Abdelgadir, Abdelgadir Elfadil; Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah; University Malaysia; University of Chester; International Islamic University; Sudan University of Science and Technology; Al-Neelain University (Springer, 2025-02-11)

  Acacia gums (AGs), derived from Acacia senegal, Acacia seyal, and Acacia polyacantha trees, are widely used in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. They serve as emulsifiers, stabilizers, thickeners, and soluble dietary fibers. This study aimed to optimize the extraction process of secondary metabolites extracted (SME) from AGS to enhance their efficiency and quality for industrial applications. Gum arabic, primarily composed of D-galactose, L-arabinose, L-rhamnose, D-glucuronic acid, and 4-O-methyl-D-glucuronic acid with a small fraction of proteins, is a multifunctional ingredient known for its emulsifying activity, attributed to its amphiphilic nature. Its effectiveness as an emulsifier stems from its high water solubility, low-viscosity, good surface activity, and ability to form a protective film around emulsion droplets. AGS in Sudan play crucial ecological roles by providing fodder, firewood, gums, and soil erosion control, which are essential for gum arabic production. Sudan’s diverse biodiversity hosts many plant species traditionally used for medicinal purposes, with extensive knowledge of medicinal plant species stemming from their widespread use among different ethnic groups. This study highlights the importance of optimizing the extraction of secondary metabolites from AGS for industrial applications, and the significance of AGS in Sudan’s ecological balance and economic stability.
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  Isolation and characterisation of acid soluble collagens and pepsin soluble collagens from Eel (Anguilla japonica Temminck et Schlegel) skin and bone

  Zhang, Ningning; Guo, Shaoli; Zheng, Yuting; Li, Weili; University of Chester; Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University (MDPI, 2025-02-05)

  Eel (Anguilla japonica) is an important and valuable food fish in East Asia and its by-products have been reported to include bioactive and profitable components. This study aimed to extract, characterise, and compare the structure and properties of acid-soluble collagens (ASCs) and pepsin-soluble collagens (PSCs) from the skin and bone of eel (Anguilla japonica), providing insights into their composition, structure, and properties for various applications. The yields of ASC-S (from skin), PSC-S (from skin), ASC-B (from bone), and PSC-B (from bone) were 12.16%, 15.54%, 0.79%, and 1.34% on a dry weight basis, respectively. Glycine, the dominant amino acid, accounted for 16.66% to 22.67% of total amino acids in all samples. SDS-PAGE and FTIR analyses showed the typical triple-helical structure of type I collagen with slight variations in molecular order in extract and intermolecular cross-linking between skin and bone collagens. The denaturation temperature (Tmax1) measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is 81.39 °C and 74.34 °C, respectively, for ASC-B and ASC-S. Bone collagen has higher thermal resistance than skin collagen. Surface morphology imaged using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed that the bone collagen had a denser network structure, whilst the skin collagen was more fibrous and porous. The findings suggest that eel-derived collagens from skin and bone can serve as potential alternatives in the food, cosmetic, and healthcare industries.
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  “Some people sit, some people stand, that’s just what we do ”: A qualitative exploration of sit-stand desk use in naturalistic settings

  Deery, Elizabeth; Buckley, John; Morris, Michael; Kennedy, Lynne; Ulster University; Keele University; University of Chester; Qatar University (Springer, 2024-03-11)

  Prolonged sedentary behaviour is associated with poor health. Office-based workers spend much of the working day sitting. Sit-stand desks have become a popular intervention, but real-life experiences of the value of sit-stand desks remain relatively unexplored outside of research-led interventions. A qualitative study was therefore undertaken to explore real-life experiences, including perceived barriers, and facilitators of using sit-stand desks. Six focus-group interviews were undertaken with a total of 34 desk-based employees in North-West England. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged: The Sedentary Office, Motivators, and The Active Office. The Sedentary Office highlighted participants’ frustration with an increasingly sedentary office environment. Motivators to reducing sitting time were knowledge of the health consequences of prolonged sitting, previous (ill) health, and the potential benefits expected. The Active Office highlighted the importance of control, choice, enhanced interaction with colleagues, and the benefits associated with moving more and enhancing an overall sense of workplace wellbeing. Perceived benefits, facilitators, and barriers - experienced and observed – from sit-stand desk use in the real world were examined, thus contributing to important discussions of transferability. Overall, the study shed light on the perceived facilitators, benefits, and drawbacks of sit-stand desk work whilst also giving evidence of the real-world acceptability and research translation of sit-stand desk use. Future research should examine this in multiple contexts and should explore implications of an increasing prevalence in home working.
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  Exploring puffed rice as a novel Ink for 3D food printing: Rheological characterization and printability analysis

  Park, Bo-Ram; No, Junhee; Oh, Hyeonbin; Park, Chan-Soon; You, Kwan-Mo; Chewaka, Legesse S.; National Institute of Agricultural Science, Korea; Kyungpook National University; University of Chester (Elsevier, 2024-09-07)

  This study introduces a novel approach by using puffed rice (PR) as a sustainable and innovative ink for 3D food printing. Due to gelatinization and dextrinization, PR saw notable water absorption and solubility gains, with a modest viscosity uptick from 39.2 to 49.9 RVU, sharply contrasting Native rice (NR)'s jump from 128.9 to 167.8 RVU, emphasizing PR's minimal retrogradation. Gelatinized rice (GR) demonstrates similar stability in viscosity changes as PR, yet it requires more water and extended processing times for gelatinization. Conversely, PR's puffing process, which eliminates the need for water, offers quicker preparation and notable environmental benefits. Rheological analysis at 25% PR concentration reveals an optimal balance of viscosity (η, 897.4 Pa s), yield stress (τy, 2471.3 Pa), and flow stress (τf, 1509.2 Pa), demonstrating superior viscoelastic properties that facilitate enhanced printability and shape fidelity. Texture Profile Analysis outcomes reveals that PR significantly enhances key textural properties including hardness, adhesiveness, and springiness at this specific concentration. These findings highlight PR's potential as an eco-friendly and efficient ink choice for 3D-printed food products, providing enhanced performance and sustainability compared to GR and NR.
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  A multi-dimensional Sustainable Diet Index (SDI) for Ghanaian adults under transition: The RODAM study

  Okekunle, Akinkunmi P.; Nicolaou, Mary; De Allegri, Manuela; Meeks, Karlijn A. C.; Osei-Kwasi, Hibbah; Stockemer, Julia; de-Graft Aikins, Anna; Agbemafle, Isaac; Bahendeka, Silver; Boateng, Daniel; et al. (BioMed Central, 2024-10-01)

  The sustainability of diets consumed by African populations under socio-economic transition remains to be determined. This study developed and characterized a multi-dimensional Sustainable Diet Index (SDI) reflecting healthfulness, climate-friendliness, sociocultural benefits, and financial affordability using individual-level data of adults in rural and urban Ghana and Ghanaian migrants in Europe to identify the role of living environment in dietary sustainability. Methods: We used cross-sectional data from the multi-centre Research on Obesity and Diabetes among African Migrants Study (N = 3169; age range: 25–70 years). For the SDI construct (0–16 score points), we used the Diet Quality Index-International, food-related greenhouse gas emission, the ratio of natural to processed foods, and the proportion of food expenditure from income. In linear regression analyses, we estimated the adjusted ß-coefficients and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the differences in mean SDI across study sites (using rural Ghana as a reference), accounting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. Results: The overall mean SDI was 8.0 (95% CI: 7.9, 8.1). Participants in the highest SDI-quintile compared to lower quintiles were older, more often women, non-smokers, and alcohol abstainers. The highest mean SDI was seen in London (9.1; 95% CI: 8.9, 9.3), followed by rural Ghana (8.2; 95% CI: 8.0, 8.3), Amsterdam (7.9; 95% CI: 7.7, 8.1), Berlin (7.8; 95% CI: 7.6, 8.0), and urban Ghana (7.7; 95% CI: 7.5, 7.8). Compared to rural Ghana, the differences between study sites were attenuated after accounting for age, gender and energy intake. No further changes were observed after adjustment for lifestyle factors. Conclusion: The multi-dimensional SDI describes four dimensions of dietary sustainability in this Ghanaian population. Our findings suggest that living in Europe improved dietary sustainability, but the opposite seems true for urbanization in Ghana.
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  The effect of vitamin D supplementation on markers of insulin resistance in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome: a systematic review

  Kohlhoff, Georgia; Kirwan, Richard; Mushtaq, Sohail; University of Chester; Liverpool John Moores University (Springer, 2024-09-14)

  Insulin resistance (IR) is a common pathology in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) involved in increased rates of cardiometabolic disease such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Low serum vitamin D is often associated with insulin resistance but there is no consensus on whether vitamin D supplementation can ameliorate markers of IR in PCOS. We assessed evidence on the effects of vitamin D supplementation (≥ 1000 IU/day), without the use of additional supplements or other pharmacological treatments known to affect IR, on markers of IR and glycemic control in women with PCOS. A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Medline and Web of Science databases from January 2000 up to November 2023. Randomized controlled trials that assessed the effects of vitamin D supplementation in women with PCOS, on fasting glucose, fasting insulin, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) or homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were included. 9 studies were identified. Study populations ranged from 28 to 180 participants, with mean ages ranging from 22 to 30 years. Daily vitamin D doses ranged from 1714-12,000 IU. Of the included studies, 3 reported statistically significant reductions in fasting glucose, 2 reported reductions in fasting insulin, 2 reported reductions in HOMA-IR, none reported reductions in HbA1c and 5 reported no differences in any of the relevant outcomes. In conclusion, in RCTs of vitamin D supplementation in women with PCOS, the majority of studies do not report statistically significant improvements in fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HbA1c or HOMA-IR. However, as a minority of studies report some statistically significant results, further investigation may be warranted. PROSPERO ID: CRD42023486144. [Abstract copyright: © 2024. The Author(s).]
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  The efficacy of Ketamine for acute and chronic pain in patients with cancer: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

  Azari, Leila; Hemati, Homa; Tavasolian, Ronia; Shahdab, Sareh; Tomlinson, Stephanie M.; Bobonis Babilonia, Margarita; Huang, Jeffrey; Tometich, Danielle B.; Turner, Kea; Saleh Anaraki, Kimia; et al. (MDPI, 2024-08-06)

  Managing cancer-related pain poses significant challenges, prompting research into alternative approaches such as ketamine. This systematic review aims to analyze and summarize the impact of ketamine as an adjuvant to opioid therapy for cancer-related pain. We conducted a literature review in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus from 1 January 1982 to 20 October 2023. Abstracts were screened against inclusion criteria, and eligible studies underwent a full-text review. Data was extracted from the included studies, and a framework analysis approach summarized the evidence regarding ketamine’s use in patients with cancer. A total of 21 randomized clinical trials were included, and the quality of all the included studies was good or fair. Significant improvements in pain scores and reduced morphine consumption were consistently observed with intravenous ketamine administration for postoperative pain control, particularly when combined with other analgesics such as morphine. Ketamine was less effective when used as an analgesic for chronic pain management, with several studies on neuropathic pain or chemotherapy-induced neuropathy finding minimal significant effect on reduction of pain scores or morphine requirements. The efficacy of ketamine in pain management appears to depend on factors such as dosage, route of administration, and patient population.
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  Assessment of performance of the profilers provided in the OECD QSAR toolbox for category formation of chemicals

  Aljallal, Mohammed A.; Chaudhry, Qasim; Price, Nicholas R.; Saudi Food and Drug Authority; University of Chester; The Food and Environment Research Agency (Nature Research, 2024-08-07)

  Growing restrictions and bans on animal testing for chemical safety assessment under different regulations have led to an increasing use of alternative methods. Read-across is one of the major approaches used for this purpose, which relies on the identification of toxicological hazards of a data-poor or untested (target) chemical from data on other already-tested (source) similar chemicals. This requires the target substance to be first assigned to a group or category of ‘similar’ chemicals. The ‘similarity’ may be in terms of structural features alone, or in combination with certain rules that are based on mechanistic and/or toxicological aspects. In this regard, the OECD QSAR toolbox—a major free-access in silico platform—is widely used to derive toxicity predictions for a range of (eco) toxicological endpoints. The Toolbox allows the user to identify a set of similar chemicals (analogues) by computational ‘profilers’ that incorporate different structural alerts, or a combination of structural alerts and physicochemical and/or toxicokinetic rules relevant to a specific toxicological endpoint. The overall aim of this study was to assess the performance of the in silico profilers provided in the OECD QSAR Toolbox for reliability for identifying chemical analogues for category formation in a number of high-quality databases on mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, and skin sensitisation. The study also aimed to identify the reasons for any limitations in the performance of the profilers, and propose ways to improve their overall accuracy. The results showed that whilst some structural alerts are fit-for-purpose as such within the acceptable limits, others need refinement or a consideration for their possible exclusion from the profiler. Such refinements are imperative for a reliable use of the profilers in read-across and grouping/categorisation for classification, labelling and risk assessment of chemicals.

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