Lipid Content Research Articles

Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase inhibition mimics and boosts exercise-mediated improvements in muscle function in aged mice

Human hallmarks of sarcopenia include muscle weakness and a blunted response to exercise. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase inhibitors (NNMTis) increase strength and promote the regenerative capacity of aged muscle, thus offering a promising treatment for sarcopenia. Since human hallmarks of sarcopenia are recapitulated in aged (24-month-old) mice, we treated mice from 22 to 24 months of age with NNMTi, intensive exercise, or a combination of both, and compared skeletal muscle adaptations, including grip strength, longitudinal running capacity, plantarflexor peak torque, fatigue, and muscle mass, fiber type, cross-sectional area, and intramyocellular lipid (IMCL) content. Exhaustive proteome and metabolome analyses were completed to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying the measured changes in skeletal muscle pathophysiology. Remarkably, NNMTi-treated aged sedentary mice showed ~ 40% greater grip strength than sedentary controls, while aged exercised mice only showed a 20% increase relative to controls. Importantly, the grip strength improvements resulting from NNMTi treatment and exercise were additive, with NNMTi-treated exercised mice developing a 60% increase in grip strength relative to sedentary controls. NNMTi treatment also promoted quantifiable improvements in IMCL content and, in combination with exercise, significantly increased gastrocnemius fiber CSA. Detailed skeletal muscle proteome and metabolome analyses revealed unique molecular mechanisms associated with NNMTi treatment and distinct molecular mechanisms and cellular processes arising from a combination of NNMTi and exercise relative to those given a single intervention. These studies suggest that NNMTi-based drugs, either alone or combined with exercise, will be beneficial in treating sarcopenia and a wide range of age-related myopathies.

A comprehensive review of current progress in biofuel production using marine algae biomass

The world's fossil fuel resources are rapidly depleting as the global population grows and energy demands rise. Current fossil fuel supplies are insufficient to meet rising demand and are nearing depletion. Careless exploitation of fossil fuels increases greenhouse gas emissions, environmental pollution, and global warming, resulting in ecological imbalances and health risks. Consequently, contamination, rising temperatures, and high oil costs have fueled the search for renewable and alternative energy sources. This study seeks to explore renewable energy alternatives that are critical to meeting future global energy demands. Marine algae such as red algae, green algae, and brown algae are gaining popularity as economically viable and environmentally friendly sources of renewable biofuel. Several studies are currently underway to assess the ability of marine algae to produce a variety of bioproducts, including biofuels. Macroalgae, in particular, emerges as an ideal resource for biofuel production due to their lipid and carbohydrate content, coupled with low or absent lignin content. The article investigates the potential of marine algal species to promote biofuel production and discusses novel methods for improving biofuel yields. It also emphasizes the economic factors and challenges associated with sustainable biofuel production.

Quantitative Visualization of Lipid Nanoparticle Fusion as a Function of Formulation and Process Parameters.

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have proven to be promising delivery vehicles for RNA-based vaccines and therapeutics, particularly in LNP formulations containing ionizable cationic lipids that undergo protonation/deprotonation in response to buffer pH changes. These nanoparticles are typically formulated using a rapid mixing technique at low pH, followed by a return to physiological pH that triggers LNP-LNP fusion. A detailed understanding of these dynamic processes is crucial to optimize the overall performance and efficiency of LNPs. However, knowledge gaps persist regarding how particle formation mechanisms impact drug loading and delivery functions. In this work, we employ single-molecule Convex Lens-induced Confinement (CLiC) microscopy in combination with Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) measurements to study LNP fusion dynamics in relation to various formulation parameters, including lipid concentration, buffer conditions, drug loading ratio, PEG-lipid concentrations, and ionizable lipid selection. Our results reveal a strong correlation between the measured fusion dynamics and the formulation parameters used; these findings are consistent with DLS and Cryo-TEM-based assays. These measurements offer a cost-effective method for characterizing and screening potential drug candidates and can provide additional insights into their design, with opportunities for optimization.

Nutritional and microbial profiles of ripened plant-based cheese analogs collected from the European market

Plant-based cheese analogs have emerged as a novel global market trend driven by sustainability concerns for our planet. This study examines eleven soft ripened plant-based cheese analogs produced in Europe, primarily with bloomy rinds and cashew nuts as the main ingredient. First, we focused on exploring the macronutrients and salt content stated on the labels, as well a detailed fatty acid analysis of the samples. Compared to dairy cheeses, plant-based cheeses share similarities in lipid content, but their fatty acid profiles diverge significantly, with higher ratio of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acids. We also investigated the microbiota of these analog products, employing a culture-dependent and -independent approaches. We identified a variety of microorganisms in the plant-based cheeses, with Lactococcus lactis and Leuconostoc mesenteroides being the dominant bacterial species, and Geotrichum candidum and Penicillium camemberti the dominant fungal species. Most of the species characterized are similar to those present in dairy cheeses, suggesting that they have been inoculated as culture starters to contribute to the sensorial acceptance of plant-based cheeses. However, we also identify several species that are possibly intrinsic to plant matrices or originate from the production environment, such as Pediococcus pentosaceus and Enterococcus spp. This coexistence of typical dairy-associated organisms with plant associated species highlights the potential microbial dynamics inherent in the production of plant-based cheese. These findings will contribute to a better understanding of plant-based cheese alternatives, enable the development of sustainable products, and pave the way for future research exploring the use of plant-based substrates in the production of cheese analogues.

Growth performance, antioxidant status, intestinal morphology, and body composition of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) supplemented with essential oils: A meta-analysis

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with essential oils (EOS) on growth performance, antioxidant status in blood serum, intestinal morphology, and whole-body composition of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) through a meta-analytic approach. The search and collection of scientific articles were conducted using the PRISMA methodology, and 45 full-text scientific articles were obtained. The data used in the meta-analysis were extracted from these 45 documents. The effect size was assessed through weighted mean differences (WMD) using Der-Simonian and Laird random effects models. Dietary supplementation with EOS increased (P < 0.001) final weight, body weight gain, specific growth rate, feed intake, protein efficiency ratio, and survival but decreased (P < 0.001) feed conversion ratio. In blood serum, EOS supplementation decreased (P < 0.001) the concentration of malondialdehyde and increased (P < 0.001) the concentration of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase. In the foregut, midgut, and hindgut, greater (P < 0.01) villus height, villus width, and number of goblet cells were observed in response to EOS supplementation. EOS supplementation increased (P < 0.01) crude protein content and decreased (P < 0.05) crude lipid content in the whole-body. In conclusion, essential oils can be used as a dietary additive to improve growth performance, antioxidant status in blood serum, and intestinal morphology in Nile tilapia. Likewise, supplementation with essential oils increases the protein content and decreases the fat content in the whole-body of Nile tilapia.

Growth performance, antioxidant status, intestinal morphology, and body composition of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) supplemented with essential oils: A meta-analysis

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with essential oils (EOS) on growth performance, antioxidant status in blood serum, intestinal morphology, and whole-body composition of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) through a meta-analytic approach. The search and collection of scientific articles were conducted using the PRISMA methodology, and 45 full-text scientific articles were obtained. The data used in the meta-analysis were extracted from these 45 documents. The effect size was assessed through weighted mean differences (WMD) using Der-Simonian and Laird random effects models. Dietary supplementation with EOS increased (P < 0.001) final weight, body weight gain, specific growth rate, feed intake, protein efficiency ratio, and survival but decreased (P < 0.001) feed conversion ratio. In blood serum, EOS supplementation decreased (P < 0.001) the concentration of malondialdehyde and increased (P < 0.001) the concentration of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase. In the foregut, midgut, and hindgut, greater (P < 0.01) villus height, villus width, and number of goblet cells were observed in response to EOS supplementation. EOS supplementation increased (P < 0.01) crude protein content and decreased (P < 0.05) crude lipid content in the whole-body. In conclusion, essential oils can be used as a dietary additive to improve growth performance, antioxidant status in blood serum, and intestinal morphology in Nile tilapia. Likewise, supplementation with essential oils increases the protein content and decreases the fat content in the whole-body of Nile tilapia.

P-235 Lipid profile changes during neurodevelopment (ND) of mouse embryos cultured in vitro

Abstract Study question Does in vitro culture (IVC) induce changes in lipid profile of the embryo? Summary answer IVC induces changes in embryonic lipid homeostasis that subsequently affect placenta-brain axis (PBA) function and are then maintained in the brain of adult mice. What is known already During ART, embryos are exposed to oxidative stress (OS)-prone environment. Cellular lipids are particularly sensitive to OS. Lipids are a crucial component for proper brain development and any aberrancies in lipid profile of the embryo can affect neurodevelopment (ND) through the PBA, leading to functional and behavioural deficits during adulthood. In particular, deficiencies of ether-linked glicerophospolipids (e.g. plasmalogens), which are highly abundant in the brain, and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), have been associated with psychiatric and ND disorders. Study design, size, duration C57BL6 mouse embryos were cultured in vitro for 72hs, and analysed or transferred to 25 recipient females for further development. From 6 pregnant mice, conceptuses (placentae and brain) were collected at near-term pregnancy (19dpc, n &amp;gt; 8/group). Remaining 8 pregnant mice were allowed to deliver and raise litters. Subsequently, brain was collected from male offspring at 4 month of age for lipid homeostasis evaluation. Control group consisted of embryos and offspring obtained from naturally mated C57BL6 mice. Participants/materials, setting, methods C57BL6 blastocysts (n &amp;gt; 15/group) were fixed and subjected to lipid analysis by Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) and Coherent antistokes Raman spectroscopies (CARS). To reveal lipid changes indicative for ND disorders, selected PUFAs were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) (n &amp;gt; 8/group) in placenta and brains from prenatal and adult mice. Additionally, placental expression of genes regulating biosynthesis of plasmalogens and proteome of adult males brain, was performed. Values were considered different when p &amp;lt; 0.05, Mean±SEM; Mann-Whitney test. Main results and the role of chance Our results show that IVC induced lipid composition changes in blastocyst, characterised by increased proportion of phospholipids, fatty amides and cholesterol (59±8.2 vs.44.7±8.8; 149±4.5vs. 104±12; 44±2.9vs. 27±4.6 sum of absorbance, p &amp;lt; 0.05); and lipid droplets (LDs) distribution changes, such as, increase size (2.3±0.11 vs 1.8±0.07 µm2, p = 0.0021), and number of large LDs (5.5±0.7 vs. 3.3±0.2, p = 0.006). LC-MS revealed increased levels of linolenic (LA), arachidonic (AA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids in placenta (LA:15.49±1.7 vs. 6.92±2; AA:263.6±29.1 vs. 62.7±14.7 DHA:0±2.5 vs. 2.7±0.8 pmol/mg; p &amp;lt; 0.03) and foetal brain (LA:13.6±5.5 vs. 1.5±0.9; AA:240.5±100 vs. 39.3±9.6; 13.9±6.9 vs. 2.11±0.6 pmol/mg; p &amp;lt; 0.03) of IVC conceptuses, which may condition brain development and function. Conversely, levels of LA and AA were low in adult brain from IVC offspring (LA:4.4±1.5 vs 14.5±3.8; AA: 581±95 vs 1842±454 pmol/mg, p &amp;lt; 0.04). Additionally, the expression of genes regulating biosynthesis of plasmalogens was reduced in IVC placentae (Gnpat:0.2±0.04 vs 1.2±03; Tmem189:0.3±0.1 vs. 1.3±0.3 fold change; p ≤ 0.01). Proteome analysis demonstrated that pathways regulating lipid homeostasis, such as fatty acid oxidation and phospholipid binding and those involved in IL-17a signaling and neurogenesis were upregulated in brain of adult IVC offspring. Limitations, reasons for caution Our results may not entirely reflect what occurs in human embryo, as mouse oocytes have a higher lipid content than human oocyte. Differences in lipid content may cause an increased or decreased penetrance and exhibition of developmental changes of the embryos. Wider implications of the findings Being of non-genetic background, lipid changes induced by IVC may similarly threaten embryos regardless of species causing ND disorders. Our study sheds new light on non-genetic origins of ND disorders and will likely ignite further studies on embryonic lipid changes and their consequences, relevant for human pregnancy and neuropsychiatry. Trial registration number not applicable

P-134 Fatty acid supplementation during warming improves pregnancy outcomes after frozen blastocyst transfers: a propensity score-matched study

Abstract Study question Does warming with fatty acids (FAs) affect the viability of human blastocysts and pregnancy outcomes after a single vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer (SVBT)? Summary answer FA-supplemented warming solutions promoted the blastocyst outgrowth by decreasing the degeneration of trophoblast cells and improved pregnancy outcomes after SVBTs. What is known already Vitrification is considered a well-established technique and has been used worldwide. However, previous studies demonstrated the detrimental effects of vitrification on pre-implantation development and term pregnancy in oocytes and embryos. Vitrification reduces the intracellular lipid content and decreases the competence for pre-implantation development. The FA supplementation into the warming solution restores the lipid content in the ooplasm and improves developmental competence by promoting the β-oxidation pathway in mice. Although, in humans, the FA-supplemented warming solutions reportedly improved pregnancy outcomes after vitrified-warmed cleavage-stage embryo transfers, the effectiveness of these solutions on blastocyst warming remain unclear. Study design, size, duration The experimental study included 401 discarded blastocysts. The blastocysts were warmed using the FA-supplemented (FA group) or non-supplemented (control group) solutions. The blastocyst adhesion, outgrowth area, and incidence of outgrowth degeneration were assessed. The retrospective cohort study included 4,426 treatment cycles from 4,426 women who underwent SVBTs between January 2023 and August 2023 (January–May 2023, control group; June–August 2023, FA group). Pregnancy outcomes were compared statistically between the groups. Participants/materials, setting, methods The implantation competence was experimentally examined using an outgrowth model. The blastocysts were placed on fibronectin-coated dishes and cultured for 96 hours. The embryos were designated as degenerated when the outgrowth area decreased by &amp;gt; 10%, compared with the maximum area. For the clinical study, multiple covariates that affected the outcomes were used for propensity score matching. The patients in the FA group were matched with controls using a propensity score in a 1:1 ratio. Main results and the role of chance The adhesion rate after the outgrowth culture was comparable between the control and FA groups. However, the outgrowth was larger in the FA group than in the control group. The multivariate linear regression analysis also demonstrated similar results. Furthermore, the incidence of outgrowth degeneration was significantly decreased in the FA group. Furthermore, the subgroup analyses revealed that FA-supplemented warming solutions were effective in blastocysts donated from young patients, day 5 blastocysts, and morphologically good blastocysts. For the retrospective cohort study, the implantation, clinical pregnancy, and ongoing pregnancy rates were significantly higher in the FA group than in the control group. The multivariate logistic regression analysis also demonstrated that warming with FA-supplemented solutions significantly increased the probability of ongoing pregnancies. However, the rates of early pregnancy loss and miscarriage in the first trimester were comparable between the groups. The subgroup analyses demonstrated a similar trend to in vitro experiments; the FA-supplemented solutions were more effective in good prognosis cases (young patients, day 4/5 blastocysts, and morphologically good blastocysts) than in poor prognosis cases (advanced age patients, day 6/7 blastocysts, and morphologically poor blastocysts). Limitations, reasons for caution This was a single-centre, retrospective study, necessitating further multicentre studies to ascertain the generalizability of these findings to other clinics with different protocols and/or patient demographics. Despite using propensity score matching and multivariate models to adjust for the confounders, we cannot adjust for all possible confounders. Wider implications of the findings FA-supplemented warming solutions improved pregnancy outcomes after SVBTs, particularly in patients with a good prognosis. These warming solutions could contribute to maximizing clinical outcomes, shortening treatment periods, and reducing patient burden. Trial registration number not applicable

P-749 Maternal and obstetric outcomes following the transfer of embryos warmed with fatty acid supplemented solutions

Abstract Study question Does fatty acid (FA) supplementation into warming solutions influence maternal and obstetric outcomes after single vitrified-warmed cleavage stage embryo transfer (SVCT)? Summary answer FA-supplemented warming solutions improve the live birth rate after SVCTs without exerting any adverse effects on maternal and obstetric outcomes. What is known already Vitrification procedures decrease the intracellular lipid content and impair developmental competence. Adding fatty acids (FAs) to the warming solution has been shown to recover the lipid content of the cytoplasm and improve developmental competence and clinical pregnancy by stimulating the beta-oxidation pathway in warmed embryos. Recently, the FA-supplemented warming solutions have been commercially released. However, influence of the FA-supplemented supplementation on live birth rate after embryo transfers and perinatal outcomes remains unknown. Study design, size, duration The clinical records of 701 treatment cycles in 701 women who underwent SVCTs were retrospectively analysed. Vitrified embryos were warmed using solutions (from April 2022 to June 2022, control group, n = 340) or FA-supplemented solutions (from July 2022 to September 2022, FA group, n = 361). All pregnant women were invited to respond to the questionnaire at 9 weeks of gestation and after delivery. Maternal and obstetric outcomes were obtained from a self-reported questionnaire completed by the patients. Participants/materials, setting, methods The embryos in the FA group were warmed with the FA-supplemented solutions (VT526, Kitazato Corporation) while the embryos in the control group were warmed with the non-supplemented solutions (VT506, Kitazato Corporation). SVCTs were performed on day 2 after ovulation in natural cycles. The live birth rate, incidence of pregnancy complications, and neonatal outcomes were compared between the control and FA groups. Main results and the role of chance The live birth rate was higher in the FA group than in the control group (P = 0.0399). The miscarriage rates were comparable between the groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis also demonstrated a higher probability of live births in the FA group than in the control group (adjusted odds ratio, 1.46; P = 0.0404). Patients were stratified by median maternal age for further analysis (37 years). This subgroup analysis showed that the live birth rate was significantly higher in the FA group than in the control group in women younger than 37 years of age. However, the live birth rate was comparable between the two groups for women aged 37 years or older. The incidence and types of pregnancy complications were comparable between the control and FA groups. Furthermore, caesarean section rates were similar between the groups. The average gestational age and incidence of preterm delivery were comparable between the groups. Birth length and weight, incidence of low birth weight, incidence of small for gestational age and large for gestational age, and infant sex were comparable between the groups. The incidence of birth defects was similar between the groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a similar trend. Limitations, reasons for caution The single-centre retrospective study limits the strength of the study, necessitating further multicentre studies to ascertain the generalizability of these findings to other clinics with different protocols and/or patient demographics. Furthermore, the number of perinatal cycles was low. Wider implications of the findings The FA-supplemented warming solutions improved the live birth rates after SVCTs, particularly in young patients. Furthermore, the incidence of pregnancy complications and infant health was not affected by the FA-supplemented solutions. Therefore, FA-supplemented solutions can be considered safe and effective at improving clinical outcomes and reducing the patient burden. Trial registration number not applicable

Gamma irradiation as a method to enhance antioxidant activity and inhibit rancidification of brown rice

Brown rice is a nutrient-rich alternative to white rice, but its higher lipid content makes it prone to rancidification. This study investigated the impact of gamma irradiation on the antioxidant activity and rancidification of brown rice. The results revealed that irradiation at doses of 5 and 10 kGy significantly increased the total phenolic content and radical scavenging activity of SL-218 brown rice. Exposure to 5 kGy of gamma radiation led to a 7.23% decrease in the free fatty acid (FFA) content compared to the control, as confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. Long-term storage studies using SL-7 and RC-160 brown rice varieties at lower doses (0.5 and 1 kGy) validated the reduction in FFA content. These findings highlight the potential of gamma irradiation to enhance the quality of brown rice by effectively reducing FFA content and improving its antioxidant activity.

Intravenous lipid emulsion interference in coagulation testing: an ex vivo analysis

Introduction Intravenous lipid emulsion is used in the rescue treatment of certain poisonings. A complication is interference with laboratory analyses. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of intravenous lipid emulsion on routine laboratory analysis of coagulation parameters ex vivo and determine if any of the analytical techniques remain reliable. Methods Samples were obtained from 19 healthy volunteers and divided in triplicate. One sample served as a control, and the other two were diluted to simulate the treatment of an average adult with Intralipid® 20 per cent Fresenius Kabi 100 mL (dilution-1) or 500 mL (dilution-2). Coagulation tests performed were prothrombin time, activated prothrombin time, D-dimer concentration and fibrinogen. Coagulation testing was performed by three techniques. Test-1 was performed on a Sysmex CN6000 analyzer. Test-2 was performed with a manual mechanical endpoint method using the semi-automated Stago KC4 Delta. Test-3 involved high-speed centrifugation before repeat testing on the Sysmex CN6000 analyzer. Results For test-1, only nine (47 per cent) samples in dilution-1 could be analyzed for coagulation tests, and no coagulation tests could be analyzed for dilution-2 because of lipaemia. For test-2 and test-3, all samples could be analyzed, and all results of both testing methods fell within the limits of the laboratory reference range. Discussion Difficulties in laboratory analysis of patients having received intravenous lipid emulsion are due to multiple factors. Most automated coagulation analyzers use optical measurements, which can be unreliable in the presence of a high intravenous lipid concentration. By altering the lipaemia in the testing solution using high-speed centrifugation or by using manual mechanical endpoint detection, we were able to obtain reliable results. These findings are limited by the use of an ex vivo method and healthy volunteers. Conclusions This ex vivo model confirms that Intralipid® interferes with routine coagulation studies. It is important that clinicians are aware and inform their laboratories of its administration.

A naturalistic study of plasma lipid alterations in female patients with anorexia nervosa before and after weight restoration treatment

BackgroundPlasma lipid concentrations in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) seem to be altered.MethodsWe conducted a naturalistic study with 75 adult female patients with AN and 26 healthy female controls (HC). We measured plasma lipid profile, sex hormones and used self-report questionnaires at admission and discharge.ResultsTotal cholesterol (median (IQR): 4.9 (1.2)) and triglycerides (TG) (1.2 (0.8)) were elevated in AN at admission (BMI 15.3 (3.4)) compared with HC (4.3 (0.7), p = 0.003 and 0.9 (0.3), p = 0.006) and remained elevated at discharge (BMI 18.9 (2.9)) after weight restoration treatment. Estradiol (0.05 (0.1)) and testosterone (0.5 (0.7)) were lower in AN compared with HC (0.3 (0.3), p = < 0.001 and 0.8 (0.5), p = 0.03) and remained low at discharge. There was no change in eating disorder symptoms. Depression symptoms decreased (33 (17) to 30.5 (19), (p = 0.007)). Regression analyses showed that illness duration was a predictor of TG, age was a predictor of total cholesterol and LDL, while educational attainment predicted LDL and TG.ConclusionLipid concentrations remained elevated following weight restoration treatment, suggesting an underlying, premorbid dysregulation in the lipid metabolism in AN that persists following weight restoration. Elevated lipid concentrations may be present prior to illness onset in AN.Level of evidence: IIIEvidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case–control analytic studies.

Cold tolerance and metabolism of red-haired pine bark beetle Hylurgus ligniperda (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) during the overwintering period.

Hylurgus ligniperda invaded Shandong, China, through imported forest timber, posing a threat to China's forest health. Exotic insects with broad environmental tolerance, including low temperatures, may have a better chance of surviving the winters and becoming invasive. Understanding the cold-tolerance strategies of H. ligniperda may help to design sustainable pest management approaches. In this study, we aim to investigate the cold-tolerance ability and relevant physiological indicators in overwintering H. ligniperda adults to determine any possible overwintering strategies. Supercooling points (SCPs) for adults H. ligniperda differed significantly across months and reached the lowest level in the mid- and post-overwintering period, the minimum SCPs -6.45 ± 0.18 °C. As the cold exposure temperature decreased, the survival rate of adults gradually decreased, and no adult survived more than 1 day at -15 °C, and the LLT50 for 1 day was -7.1 °C. Since H. ligniperda adults can survive internal ice formation, they are freeze-tolerant insects. Throughout the overwintering period, the SCPs and the water, protein, sorbitol, and glycerol content in adults decreased initially and then increased. We reported significant correlations between total protein, sorbitol, trehalose, and glycerol content in the beetles and SCPs. Glycogen, lipid, protein, trehalose, and sorbitol content in adult beetles may directly affect their cold-tolerance capacity and survival during winter. This study provides a physiological and biochemical basis for further study of metabolism and cold-tolerance strategies in H. ligniperda adults, which may help predict population dynamics and distribution potential of pests.

Effects of physical activity on blood lipids and HbA1c in healthy pregnant women: the FitMum randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveMaternal blood lipid and glucose concentrations during pregnancy affect fetal growth and the risk of pregnancy and delivery complications.We aimed to investigate the effects of physical activity (PA) during pregnancy on maternal blood lipid and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) concentrations. We hypothesized that higher PA was associated with improved lipid profile and glycemic control. MethodsIn a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial, we included 216 pregnant women before week 15+0 and tested the effects of two different PA interventions throughout pregnancy compared to standard care on maternal blood lipid and HbA1c concentrations. Additionally, we investigated the effect of PA per se measured by an activity tracker. Total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglyceride, and HbA1c concentrations were measured at week ≤15+0, 28+0-6, 34+0-6, and at delivery (week 32+1 to 42+0). Effects of the interventions and PA per se were tested using linear mixed effects models and linear regression analyses, respectively. ResultsNo effects of the PA interventions were detected on maternal lipids or HbA1c during pregnancy. In PA per se analyses, more minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA were associated with less increase in TC (-1.3E-04, p=0.020) and LDL-C (-8.5E-05, p=0.035) as pregnancy progresses. More active kilocalories were associated with less increase in TC (-5.5E-05, p<0.001), HDL-C (-9.5E-06, p=0.024), and LDL-C (-3.2E-05, p=0.005). ConclusionWhilst there were no effects of offering PA interventions, higher PA was associated with reduced increases in total cholesterol, HDL-C, and LDL-C as pregnancy progressed.

Obesity and lipid metabolism in the development of osteoporosis (Review).

Osteoporosis is a common bone metabolic disease that causes a heavy social burden and seriously threatens life. Improving osteogenic capacity is necessary to correct bone mass loss in the treatment of osteoporosis. Osteoblasts are derived from the differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, a process that opposes adipogenic differentiation. The peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor γ and Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathways mediate the mutual regulation of osteogenesis and adipogenesis. Lipid substances play an important role in the occurrence and development of osteoporosis. The content and proportion of lipids modulate the activity of immunocytes, mainly macrophages, and the secretion of inflammatory factors, such as IL‑1, IL‑6 and TNF‑α. These inflammatory effectors increase the activity and promote the differentiation of osteoclasts, which leads to bone imbalance and stronger bone resorption. Obesity also decreases the activity of antioxidases and leads to oxidative stress, thereby inhibiting osteogenesis. The present review starts by examining the bidirectional differentiation of BM‑MSCs, describes in detail the mechanism by which lipids affect bone metabolism, and discusses the regulatory role of inflammation and oxidative stress in this process. The review concludes that a reasonable adjustment of the content and proportion of lipids, and the alleviation of inflammatory storms and oxidative damage induced by lipid imbalances, will improve bone mass and treat osteoporosis.

Unbalanced lipid metabolism in anther, especially the disorder of the alpha-linolenic acid metabolism pathway, leads to cotton male sterility

Recent studies have shown that lipid metabolism is a key factor affecting anther development and male fertility. However, how plants regulating the metabolic balance of multiple lipids to ensure proper anther development and male fertility remains unclear. Analyzing lipid molecules related to anther fertility and genes responsible for their biosynthesis is crucial for understanding the physiological significance of lipid metabolism in crop fertility. In this study, we compared the transcriptome and the composition and content of lipids in anthers of two Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) materials, Shida 98 (WT) and its nearly-isogenic male sterile line Shida 98A (MS). Transcriptomics analysis identified many differentially expressed genes between the two materials, with the genes of the alpha-linolenic acid metabolism pathway being the most significantly associated with the male sterility phenotype. Investigations on lipids revealed that the MS anthers over-accumulated free fatty acids (FFAs), phosphatidic acid (PA), mono- and di-galactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG and DGDG), and had a decreased content of triacylglycerol (TAG), which was closely related to the abnormal metabolism of alpha-linolenic acid (C18:3); therefore, the major lipids containing C18:3-acyl chains, such as PA, MGDG, DGDG and TAG, are proposed to play a major role in cotton anther development. We also showed that an excessive level of MGDG and DGDG caused JA overaccumulation in MS anthers, which in turn inhibited the expression of GhFAD3 and consequently reduced the C18:3 content, presumably via a feedback regulation mechanism, ultimately affecting plant fertility. Together, our results revealed the importance of a balanced lipid metabolism in regulating the development of cotton anther and pollen and consequently male fertility.

Regulated the aggregation of bile salts by β-Cyclodextrin and Tangeretin at the oil-water interface for inhibiting lipid digestion

Our previous research has demonstrated that the changes in oil-water interface properties during dietary digestion have a significant impact on the digestion and absorption of lipids. In this study, these methods of interfacial tension, microscopic examination, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and free fatty acid (FFA) release were used to evaluate the effect and mechanism of assembly behavior of tangeretin (TAN) and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) at the oil-water interface on the rate of lipid digestion. The results showed that the combination of β-CD and TAN at the oil-water interface made the interfacial tension first increase and then decrease with the increase of TAN: β-CD ratios (M: M, 1:1-20). The self-assembled structure formed by the interaction of TAN and β-CD can produce stronger interaction with bile salts, which makes bile salts flocculate at the oil-water interface. The FFAs release experiment showed that a TAN: β-CD molar ratio of 1:8 exerted the highest inhibitory (34.92%) effect on lipid digestion. Furthermore, the results from ITC and MD simulations confirmed that BS exhibited stronger binding affinity with the TAN/β-CD complex. These results suggested that the TAN/β-CD complex caused the bile salts to prematurely gather at the oil-water interface, thereby thickening the interfacial layer, hindering the displacement of bile salts and lipase between droplets, and ultimately impeding lipid digestion. This study emphasized the promising potential of the synergistic effect between cyclodextrin and flavoring molecules in inhibiting lipid digestion, proposing a novel avenue for the development of reduced-fat foods with enhanced health benefits.

Replacement of fish oil by palm oil in diet for juvenile greenfin horse-faced filefish (Thamnaconus septentrionalis): Effects on growth performance, fatty acid composition, antioxidant capacity and inflammatory responses

This study investigated the effects of replacing dietary fish oil (FO) with palm oil (PO) on the growth performance, proximate composition, antioxidant capacity, and inflammatory responses of juvenile Green-fin filefish, Thamnaconus septentrionalis. Five isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets with varying levels of PO inclusion (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) were prepared, and each diet was administered in triplicate to juvenile fish for 10 weeks. Results indicated that moderately partial replacement of FO did not result in detrimental effects whereas complete or high-level replacement of FO compromised survival, growth, and feed utilization. Moderate PO inclusion slightly increased the antioxidant capacity. However, this effect was significantly impaired by high levels of dietary PO. The moisture and ash content of whole fish showed an increasing trend, while crude lipid and crude protein content tended to decline, showing significant linear response. Dietary PO appeared to affect triglyceride synthesis, albeit with minimal impact on the lipid content of the liver. Fatty acid compositions in both liver and muscle tissues were linearly correlated with dietary FA profiles, with fish liver being more reflective of dietary fatty acid composition than muscle tissue. ARA, EPA and DHA were selectively retained in the muscle tissue, whereas EPA retention was significantly reduced in the liver tissue with the gradual replacement of FO. High levels of PO inclusion in the diet resulted in elevated gene expression related to hepatic inflammation, including TLRs, MyD88 and TNFa. In conclusion, palm oil could potentially serve as an alternative to fish oil in the diet for juvenile T. septentrionalis, with up to 50% substitution without deteriorating growth performance, n-3 LC-PUFA deposition in muscle, and health status of juvenile greenfin horse-faced filefish.

The Effect of Irradiation on Meat Products.

The effects of irradiation on meat constituents including water, proteins, and lipids are multifaceted. Irradiation leads to the decomposition of water molecules, resulting in the formation of free radicals that can have both positive and negative effects on meat quality and storage. Although irradiation reduces the number of microorganisms and extends the shelf life of meat by damaging microbial DNA and cell membranes, it can also accelerate the oxidation of lipids and proteins, particularly sulfur-containing amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids. With regard to proteins, irradiation affects both myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic proteins. Myofibrillar proteins, such as actin and myosin, can undergo depolymerization and fragmentation, thereby altering protein solubility and structure. Sarcoplasmic proteins, including myoglobin, undergo structural changes that can alter meat color. Collagen, which is crucial for meat toughness, can undergo an increase in solubility owing to irradiation-induced degradation. The lipid content and composition are also influenced by irradiation, with unsaturated fatty acids being particularly vulnerable to oxidation. This process can lead to changes in the lipid quality and the production of off-odors. However, the effects of irradiation on lipid oxidation may vary depending on factors such as irradiation dose and packaging method. In summary, while irradiation can have beneficial effects, such as microbial reduction and shelf-life extension, it can also lead to changes in meat properties that need to be carefully managed to maintain quality and consumer acceptability.

The UDP-glycosyltransferase gene OsUGT706E2 negatively regulates rice tolerance to blast disease and abiotic stresses

Despite the crucial role of UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) in various stress responses in plants, their biological functions in rice (Oryza sativa L.) remain poorly understood. In this study, we introduce a novel gene, OsUGT706E2, which is expressed at significantly higher levels in wild rice compared to cultivated rice. OsUGT706E2 is active in multiple tissues and localizes to both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Its transcription is notably up-regulated in response to cold stress, blast disease, and several hormone treatments. Overexpression of OsUGT706E2 markedly reduces seedling tolerance to blast disease, cold, and osmotic stress, whereas knocking out OsUGT706E2 enhances seedling tolerance to blast disease and osmotic stress. The expression levels of stress-related genes in OsUGT706E2 overexpressing plants were significantly lower compared to wild-type plants following stress treatment. Conversely, OsUGT706E2 knockout plants exhibited markedly higher expression levels of these genes than the control plants after stress treatment. Metabolome analysis further indicated that OsUGT760E2 influences metabolite content in rice. Specifically, OsUGT760E2-overexpressing seedlings had higher amino acid content and lower lipid content compared to wild-type seedlings, while OsUGT760E2-knockout seedlings showed lower amino acid content and higher lipid content than control seedlings. These findings suggest that OsUGT760E2 negatively regulates resistance to blast disease as well as tolerance to cold and osmotic stress in rice. As a result, OsUGT760E2 represents a promising target for enhancing rice stress tolerance through gene editing approaches.