Mucuna Pruriens Research Articles

Preschool Children’s Eating Habits and Parental Nutritional Status

Background/Objectives: Poor nutrition in early life represents a relevant public health issue globally. The current study aimed to characterize eating habits among preschoolers and investigate the relationship with parents’ nutritional status. Methods: A secondary analysis of a cross-sectional study carried out at the Child Dentistry Clinics of the Istituto Stomatologico Italiano, Milan, Italy, including 171 patients aged 12–71 months and their parents, was conducted. Demographic data, anthropometric measurements, and information on children’s eating habits were collected. Results: The duration of exclusive breastfeeding was 5.9 (±6.8) months in 65% of children, and complementary feeding began at a mean (±SD) of 6.2 (±1.7) months in accordance with present recommendations. In contrast, the consumption of fruit juice 3.2 (±2.9) times/week, a protein intake of 3.0 (±0.6) g/kg, and a sugar intake of 20 (±8)% were over guideline limits. Overweight/obese children were introduced to cow’s milk earlier (p = 0.033) and consumed a higher percentage of total fats (p = 0.026) whilst consuming a lower percentage of carbohydrates (p = 0.050). In terms of children with both parents being obese or overweight, they consumed more carbohydrates (p = 0.048). Finally, we found that birth weight correlated positively with maternal BMI (ρ = 0.159; p < 0.05). The number of offspring correlated positively with the weekly frequency of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption before 24 months (ρ = 0.282; p < 0.001) whilst correlating negatively with the age of cow’s milk introduction (ρ = −0.226; p < 0.01). Conclusions: Our findings, according to recommendations, suggest that the prevention of obesity needs to begin in infancy. As parents play a pivotal role in establishing children’s food choices, nutritional education aimed at families is needed.

Using supervised machine learning algorithms to predict bovine leukemia virus seropositivity in dairy cattle in Florida: A 10-year retrospective study

Supervised machine-learning (SML) algorithms are potentially powerful tools that may be used for screening cows for infectious diseases such as bovine leukemia virus (BLV) infection. Here, we compared six different SML algorithms to identify the most important risk factors for predicting BLV seropositivity in dairy cattle in Florida. We used a dataset of 1,279 dairy blood sample records from the Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory that were submitted for BLV antibody testing from 2012 to 2022. The SML algorithms that we used were logistic regression (LR), decision tree (DT), gradient boosting (GB), random forest (RF), neural network (NN), and support vector machine (SVM). A total of 312 serum samples were positive for BLV with corrected seroprevalence of 26.0%. Subject to limitations of the analyzed retrospective data, the RF model was the best model for predicting BLV seropositivity in dairy cattle indicated by the highest Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) statistic of 0.75, area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) of 0.93, gain of 2.6; and lowest misclassification rate of 0.10. The LR model was the worst. The RF model showed that the best predictors for BLV seropositivity were age (dairy cows of age ≥ 5 years) and geographic location (southern Florida). We concluded that the RF and other SML algorithms hold promise for predicting BLV seropositivity in dairy cattle and that dairy cattle 5 years of age or older raised in southern Florida have a higher likelihood of testing positive for BLV. This study makes an important methodological contribution to the needed development of predictive tools for effective screening for BLV infection and emphasizes the importance of collecting and using representative data in such predictive models.

Comparative study on the secondary xylem and phloem formation in three varieties of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC (Fabaceae)

Comparative study on the secondary xylem and phloem formation in three varieties of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC (Fabaceae)

Decomposition and nutrient release from shoot of legumes cover crops

The cover crops can reduce soil exposure and erosion while enhancing nutrient cycling for crops. Effective implementation requires understanding how cover crops decompose and release nutrients to align with crop demand. This research assessed the decomposition rates and nutrient release of various legume residues commonly used as green manure or cover crops in agricultural systems. The study took place in a nutrient-deficient Red-Yellow Ultisol, using a split-plot design with different legume cover crop species: Crotalaria juncea, Crotalaria spectabilis, Cajanus cajan, Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp), Dolichos lablab, Canavalia ensiformis and Mucuna aterrima as the main plots and six evaluation periods: 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 days after incorporation (DAI) as the subplots. Initial mass losses were observed in the first 60 days, followed by a slower decline over the study period. The order of nutrient accumulation in biomass was found to be: K > N > P > Ca > Mg. The Dolichos lablab species had the slowest decomposition rate, with a half-life of 43 days, while Cajanus cajan had the fastest, with a half-life of 65 days. Potassium reached its maximum by 30 DAI, indicating a rapid transfer to the soil. Nitrogen, P, and K contents decreased during different vegetative phases, highlighting the importance of proper timing for legume management. Hemp, Crotalaria spectabilis, Dolichos lablab, and Canavalia ensiformis were suitable for short-cycle vegetables due to rapid nutrient availability. Conversely, Cajanus spp., and Mucuna aterrima were better for extended soil coverage and slow nutrient release.

Survival rate of dairy heifer calves from birth to one year of age

The study examined the survival rate of dairy heifer calves from birth to one year of age over ten years (2009–2018). The frequency of heifer calves' death in different age periods has been identified, and the frequency of calf death depends on the damage and their milk yield, as well as the season of birth of the heifer calves. In total, 2,825 heifer calves of Ukrainian Black-and-White dairy breeds with a high Holstein share heredity (93 % and higher) were included in the study. The farm where the study was conducted is located in the southern part of the Kyiv region. The average 305-d lactation milk yield was 8463 kg, and the average caw age in the herd – was 1.94 lactations. The calf's housing system was unchanged during the experimental period: colostrum was fed to newborn calves for at least three days, whole milk – until the age of 9–11 weeks; combined fodder intake – as much as calves want during the first month of life and 1.5 kg per day before weaning, getting used to hay from the age of 4 weeks. Calves were housed in individual hutches. It was established that for the investigated period, the herd's survival rate of dairy heifer calves was 85.4 % (81.5...90.1 %); 14.6 % of calves died before the age of one year for different reasons. By age, most heifer calves died within the first month after birth, which amounted to 53.3 % at the age of 1.1–3.0 months – 12.1 %, 3.1–6.0 months – 18.6 %, and 6.1–12.0 months –16.0 %. Dams of died heifer calves were characterized by a slightly older age compared to the average age of cows in the herd (+ 0.21 lactations, P < 0.01) and lower 305-d milk yield in lactation that preceded heifer calf death (-230 kg, P < 0.001). It was found that, depending on the season of birth, the lowest proportion of heifer calves’ deaths was observed in the group born in autumn – 19.6 %; in winter, spring, and summer, the part of heifer calves deaths varied from 26.2 to 27.6 %. Therefore, the survival rate of heifer calves depends to a certain extent on the age of calves, the age and milk productivity of dams, and the season of birth of calves.

Comparative Assessment Of 2,4-D Phytotoxicity On Six Green Manure Plants

Pesticides are widely used in various crops and are associated with environmental impacts. The herbicide 2,4-D, for example, can cause phytotoxicity in different plant species, including leguminous plants that can be used for green manure. In this context, the present research aimed to identify the phytotoxicity of 2,4-D during the initial growth of six terrestrial plant species, including Cajanus cajan, Canavalia ensiformis, Crotalaria juncea, Dolichos lablab, Lupinus albus, and Mucuna pruriens. The studied plants were exposed to different concentrations of 2,4-D (from 0.8 to 4.0 mg kg-1) for 14 days after the germination in control treatments. The endpoints were the germination percentage, the shoot and root lengths, and fresh and dry biomass. Fresh and dry biomass results were interpreted in terms of the Tolerance Index (TI), and the concentrations of 50% inhibition effect (EC50) were calculated for germination and shoot and root length. Four species showed germination above 87.5% for all treatments (EC50 > 4.0 mg kg-1), while this endpoint was below 50% for C. cajan and L. albus at the highest concentrations. The growth of all species was impaired when they were exposed to 2,4-D, with an increase in herbicide concentrations leading to a decrease in the lengths of shoots and roots. The effect on shoot length was more pronounced for L. albus, M. pruriens, and C. cajan (EC50 < 2.0 mg kg-1). The root length inhibition was more evident for C. cajan, C. juncea, L. albus, and D. lablab (EC50 < 1.0 mg kg-1). Swollen roots and yellowing of leaves stood out among the qualitative symptoms of phytotoxicity. Among the tested plants, M. pruriens was the most tolerant (TI > 60% in all treatments), standing out as the species with the most significant potential for green manure in crops during the off-season.

Antidepressant activity of Mucuna pruriens in prolonged chronic mild stress induced depression in Drosophila melanogaster

Antidepressant activity of Mucuna pruriens in prolonged chronic mild stress induced depression in Drosophila melanogaster

Spatial interpolators for Delineating management zones to mitigate Mucuna pruriens in sugarcane plantations in the Eastern Amazon

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have emerged as essential tools in precision agriculture, employing aerial photogrammetry concepts to aid producers in various decision-making processes. This study evauates different spatial interpolators to define management zones in sugarcane fields, aiming to control potential infestations by Mucuna pruriens. We collected images using the EbeeSQ UAV, equipped with a multispectral sensor, and calculated vegetation indices, including NDVI, SAVI, NDRE, and GNDVI. Analysis revealed that GNDVI yielded the most favorable results, with a mean value of 0.304 and a coefficient of variation of 11.747 %. Using regular and random sampling grids, we applied Ordinary Kriging (OK) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) interpolators to assess spatial variability across 13 survey zones. The results indicated a Degree of Spatial Dependence averaging 57.197 % and a Moran Index of 0.609, confirming moderate spatial dependence. Cross-validation showed that OK with random sampling outperformed other methods, achieving a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.064 and a coefficient of determination (r2) averaging 0.347. Furthermore, the relationship between the Fuzzy Performance Index (averaging 0.069) and Normalized Classification Entropy (averaging 0.077) enabled the creation of management zone maps. These maps effectively identify distinct classes within the study areas, enhancing decision-making for producers in managing velvet bean weed during critical developmental phases.

Boost Your Mood with Mucuna pruriens

Mucuna pruriens, a tropical legume, has garnered attention for its therapeutic potential, particularly due to its high L-DOPA content, a precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine. This review paper synthesizes current research on the pharmacological properties of Mucuna pruriens, emphasizing its application in treating neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. Traditional uses in various indigenous medicine systems have been validated through modern scientific methods, demonstrating significant anti-parkinsonian potential without the common side effects associated with synthetic L-DOPA. The analysis extends to the agronomic practices essential for its cultivation, which highlights the plant's dual role in sustainable agriculture and therapeutic applications. This review also addresses the critical aspects of toxicity and safety profiles, elaborating on the appropriate dosages and preparations to mitigate side effects commonly associated with natural products. Furthermore, the economic implications of Mucuna pruriens in the pharmaceutical industry are discussed, underlining its potential as a cost-effective treatment option. Comparative studies with other natural sources of L-DOPA offer a comprehensive overview of its advantages over synthetic alternatives, providing insights into its higher efficacy and lower toxicity. The review concludes with suggestions for future research directions, particularly in genetic variability, which could pave the way for enhanced therapeutic profiles tailored to individual needs. This paper aims to contribute to the broader understanding of Mucuna pruriens, encouraging further clinical and agronomic research to fully exploit its potential.

PLANTING DENSITIES AND THE USE OF LOCAL WEEDS AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO ACCELERATE THE INCORPORATION OF GREEN MANURES

<p><strong>Background. </strong> Tropical legumes used as green manure require between 2.5 and 4.5 months of growth to be incorporated into the soil, an increase in planting density and the use of weed biomass is expected to help reduce the time required for the incorporation of legumes. <strong>Objective. </strong>To determine plant survival and dry matter production of five tropical legumes produced in conjunction with local weeds, as a function of planting density and legume age, to identify the most appropriate alternative to accelerate the incorporation of plant biomass in tropical regions. <strong>Methodology. </strong>The legumes <em>Canavalia ensiformis</em>, <em>Crotalaria juncea</em>, <em>Cajanus cajan</em>, <em>Sesbania</em> sp. and <em>Mucuna aterrima</em> were established in Veracruz, Mexico. Each species was established at five planting densities and biomass was collected at four ages, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days after sowing (DAS). <strong>Results.</strong> Plant height, leaf/stem ratio, percentage of broadleaf and narrowleaf weeds, as well as dry matter produced by legumes, weeds, and the total of both, changed as a function of plant age. <strong>Implications.</strong> To use green manures in a crop rotation system under rainfed conditions, it is necessary to know the amount of biomass of local weeds and legumes produced over time. The results of the study will help to define the most appropriate cutting age for each of the green manure species evaluated. <strong>Conclusion. </strong>It is concluded that, independent of planting density, as the age of the legumes increases, plant survival and the leaf/stem ratio decrease, but the amount of dry matter increases. <em>C. cajan</em> and <em>C. juncea</em> have a greater capacity to compete with local weeds, which is attributed to the height they can reach in the first 30 DAS. Regardless of the species and planting density, the maximum production of total dry matter per hectare is achieved between 30 and 60 DAS, when it is recommended to incorporate the biomass to produce under rainfed conditions.</p>

Effect of bioactive compounds of Mucuna pruriens on proteins of Wnt/β catenin pathway in pulmonary hypertension by in silico approach.

Modulation of theWnt/β-catenin signaling pathway may aid in discovering new medications for the effective management of pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). Given the therapeutic potential of Mucuna pruriens in several diseases, the present study aimed toanalyze interactions of different bioactive compounds of Mucuna pruriens plant seeds with Wnt/β-catenin pathway targeting its various components like Wnt 3a, Frizzled 1, LRP 5/6, β-catenin, Disheveled, cyclin D1 by in silico analysis. The proposed work is based on computational analysis including ADME/T properties, by a Swiss ADME server. To understand the molecular interaction pattern Schrodinger, suit a stand-alone software was used to predict the interaction of bioactive molecules of Mucuna Pruriens with target proteins that are involved in Wnt/ β catenin pathway. Further, the simulation pattern of the top docked complex was subjected to MD simulation in Desmond for 100ns. Bioactive molecules from Mucuna Pruriens have drug-like properties and minimal toxicity. Further, the docking study revealed that among the nine compounds, three compounds (Gallic acid, L-dopa, and β-sitosterol) showed good interaction with target proteins. As gallic acid showed good interaction with all target proteins, the docked complex was subjected to MD simulation which was stable throughout the simulation time in terms of RMSD and RMSF. These findings suggest that the bioactive molecules of Mucuna pruriens compounds have potential therapeutic value in the treatment of pulmonary vascular disease. Further, in vivo and in vitro studies are necessary to determine its efficacy and validate its pharmacological activity conclusively.

Mucuna pruriens, a Possible Treatment for Depressive Disorders.

Depression is a mental disorder that depicts a wide variety of symptoms, including mood and cognitive alterations, as well as recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. It could become the second leading cause of premature death or disability worldwide. Treatments with conventional antidepressants have several limitations in terms of effectiveness, side effects, and high costs. Therefore, medicinal plants such as Mucuna pruriens are potent candidates for treating depressive disorders. This review shows a compendium of evidence supporting the antidepressant effect of the Mucuna pruriens plant in diverse animal models. This includes the mechanisms of action underlying the antidepressant activity of the treatment concerning dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide, cortisol, and inflammation. Clinical trials are needed to study the efficacy and safety of Mucuna pruriens for depression.

Effect of Hormones, Season and Lactation on Follicular Size, Oocyte Competency and Embryo Production in Sahiwal Cattle

Background: Transvaginal ultrasound-guided ovum pick-up (OPU) and in vitro embryo production (IVEP) techniques are widely used for enhancing reproductive efficiency. The number and quality of embryos have been reported to be influenced by various factors like source of hormones, season, lactation in cattle. Methods: Twenty-one multiparous, normal cyclic Sahiwal cows (aged: 6-8 years; lactating: n-11 and non-lactating: n-10) were selected randomly and the experiment was conducted during hot (April to September) and cold (October to March) seasons. All the donor cows were administered 10 µg GnRH at random stage of oestrous cycle followed by FSH (Folltropin-V™ or Stimufol) at the rate of 100, 60 and 40 mg after 48, 60 and 72 h of GnRH administration. After 24 hours of coasting period, follicular aspiration was performed by stabilizing the targeted follicles with the help of ultrasonography. The procedures of COCs grading, in vitro maturation, fertilization, followed by culture were performed as per the standard protocols. Results: The hormonal treatment was effective in improving the oocytes’ developmental competency and in vitro embryo production; with no statistical differences between the two sources. The follicle size distribution revealed a lower (P less than 0.05) medium-sized and small-sized follicular proportion during the hot season with a higher average count of dominant (large-sized) follicles. While, good quality (A+B+C) oocytes, matured and fertilized oocytes were significantly higher (P less than 0.05) in non-lactating donors, especially among cool-season collections.

Phytochemicals in Parkinson's Disease: a Pathway to Neuroprotection and Personalized Medicine.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder marked by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. While current treatments primarily manage symptoms, there is increasing interest in alternative approaches, particularly the use of phytochemicals from medicinal plants. These natural compounds have demonstrated promising neuroprotective potential in preclinical studies by targeting key pathological mechanisms such as oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and protein aggregation. However, the clinical translation of these phytochemicals is limited due to a lack of robust clinical trials evaluating their safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the neuroprotective potential of phytochemicals in PD management, examining the mechanisms underlying PD pathogenesis and emphasizing neuroprotection. It explores the historical and current research on medicinal plants like Mucuna pruriens, Curcuma longa, and Ginkgo biloba, and discusses the challenges in clinical translation, including ethical and practical considerations and the integration with conventional therapies. It further underscores the need for future research to elucidate mechanisms of action, optimize drug delivery, and conduct rigorous clinical trials to establish the safety and efficacy of phytochemicals, aiming to shape future neuroprotective strategies and develop more effective, personalized treatments for PD.

Growth, physiological responses, and meat quality of feedlot-finished Bonsmara steers offered unprocessed Mucuna pruriens utilis seed meal with or without conventional and green zinc oxide nanoparticles

Feedlot finishing of beef cattle on commercial nutrient-dense diets based on expensive corn (maize), soybean meal (SBM) and other commonly used protein-rich ingredients is economically unsustainable, especially for smallholder farmers. Rich in energy and proteins, Mucuna pruriens utilis seed meal (MSM) could replace corn and protein-rich ingredients in beef cattle diets provided its problems of antinutritional factors (ANFs) and high fiber content that compromise animal growth performance are resolved. The objective of this study was, therefore, to investigate the effects of incorporation of conventional (C-Nano-ZnO) versus green (G-Nano-ZnO) zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles in the diets of feedlot-finished Bonsmara steers supplemented with 20% MSM (dry matter basis). In a completely randomized design, 28 Bonsmara steers were randomly allocated to 4 experimental diets [i.e., Control diet without MSM (C); C with 20% MSM replacing corn (partially) and the common protein-rich ingredients (CM); CM with 25 mg/kg C-Nano-ZnO (CM-C); and CM with 25 mg/kg G-Nano-ZnO (CM-G)] each with seven replicates for 98 days. Performance variables, carcass traits, hemato-biochemistry, and meat quality were then measured. All data were analyzed with SAS using one-way ANOVA applying the GLM procedure, with diet as the independent variable, except for growth performance data that were analyzed as repeated measures. Results showed that while dietary MSM did not affect (P > 0.05) meat quality and serum biochemistry, it decreased body weight gain (BWG; P < 0.01), feed intake (FI; P = 0.001), feed conversion efficiency (FCE; P < 0.01), carcass fatness (P = 0.05), hot carcass weight (HCW; P < 0.05), cold carcass weight (CCW; P = 0.05), blood MCV (P < 0.05), MCH (P < 0.01), and neutrophils (P < 0.01) as it increased blood lymphocytes (P < 0.001). Interestingly, the harmful effects of MSM were attenuated by C-Nano-ZnO and worsened by G-Nano-ZnO. In conclusion, feeding of high dietary unprocessed MSM did not affect Bonsmara beef meat quality and serum biochemistry but compromised their growth performance, carcass traits, and some hematology responses, and these were alleviated by C-Nano-ZnO and deteriorated by G-Nano-ZnO incorporation. We recommend feeding commercial diets supplemented with 20% MSM, replacing corn and commonly used protein-rich ingredients, plus 25 mg/kg of C-Nano-ZnO to feedlot-finishing beef cattle.

Physicochemical Analysis and Phytochemical Evaluation of Gokshuradi Churna and its Hydro-Alcoholic Extract

Drug is an essential tool of a physician included in Chatushpada. Many single as well as compound drugs are mentioned in classics in different contexts for internal as well as external use. It is always the cumulative impact of all the ingredients in the solution that plays a critical role in therapeutics, rather than the action of the individual medication. Synergistic action, combined action and toxicity neutralizing action and basic purpose are envisaged to serve drug combinations. One such important formulation prescribed in the Ashtanga Haridya Uttartantra is Gokshuradi Churna provides specifics of the drugs Gokshuradi Churna which was chosen for study. Acharya Vaghbhatta in Uttartantra listed numerous drugs that are useful in the treatment of Alpa, Dushta Retas that specifically influence the properties of Shukrajanana (spermatogenesis) and Shukra Shodhana. This formulation consists of five ingredients i.e., Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris Linn), Ikshura (Asteracantha longifolia Nees), Mash (Phaseolus mungo Linn), Atmagupta seeds (Mucuna prurita Hook) &amp; Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus Wild). Many formulations are available in various texts under the same name Gokshuradi Churna with different ingredients and different Rogadhikara. Keeping this aim into consideration, the present study was designed to scientific evaluation of Gokshuradi Churna and its hydroalcoholic extract on different analytical and phytochemical parameters. The study includes macro and microscopic characters, powder microscopic characteristics, heavy metals analysis and High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography fingerprints (HPTLC). The information generated by this particulars study provides relevant pharmacognostical and physicochemical data needed for proper identification and authentication of Gokshuradi Churna and its hydroalacoholic extract.

Japanese Mucuna pruriens (Hasshou Beans) Showed Fast-acting and Long-lasting Effects in Parkinson&apos;s Disease

Objective Mucuna pruriens (MP) is a legume whose seeds contain levodopa (LD), which has potential therapeutic effects against Parkinson's disease (PD). However, further research is needed to thoroughly evaluate its efficacy and safety for treating this condition. In this study, we analyzed the pharmacokinetics of MP grown in Japan and investigated its mechanism of action in PD. Methods MP seeds ground after roasting (containing 4.02% LD per MP powder) were used as the reagent and compared with an equivalent LD/carbidopa (CD) preparation. This clinical trial was conducted using a crossover design among PD patients attending our institution. Each patient received a single dose of 100/10 mg LD/CD tablets and 11 g of MP reagent. Results Among the seven patients with PD, MP prolonged the ON time 2-fold compared to LD/CD. The LD concentrations after MP intake were higher than those after LD/CD intake, whereas dyskinesia did not increase. An analysis of the LD metabolites showed that the 3-O-methyl-dopa/LD metabolic ratio was significantly lower after MP ingestion than after LD/CD ingestion, indicating that MP has a catechol-O-methyl transferase inhibitory effect. Conclusions This is the first report of a pharmacokinetic analysis conducted on actual patients with PD showing that MP significantly prolongs the ON time. The advantages of MP as a treatment for PD have been confirmed: it is inexpensive, as effective as LD, works faster and longer than LD, and does not increase dyskinesia.

Residual feed intake measured as replacement heifers is indicative of residual feed intake measured as mature cows

This study aimed to quantify the relationship between residual feed intake (RFI) measured in 500 heifers and subsequently as mid-gestation cows at the Roy Berg Kinsella Research Station (KIN; n=227) and Lacombe Research and Development Centre (LRDC; n=273). Heifers were initially tested for RFI adjusted for end of test rib fat (RFIfat) at 8-12 mo of age and then again as 3-yr old first-calf heifers at KIN and as 4-13 yr old cows at LRDC. Heifer RFIfat measured in drylot on a forage diet was associated (R2 &gt;0.53; P &lt; 0.001) with RFIfat measured again as older cows. Each 1 kg DM d-1 change in heifer RFIfat equaled 0.48±0.10 and 0.75±0.19 kg DM d-1 change in cow RFIfat for KIN and LRDC, respectively. Linear effects were also reported for RFIfat component traits, where DMI (P&lt;0.001), ADG (P&lt;0.060), mid-test metabolic weight (P&lt;0.001) and end of test rib fat (P&lt;0.001) measured as heifers were related when measured again as older cows. In addition, the linear effects of heifer RFIfat on cow RFIfat were constant across cow age groups from 4-10 yr of age. These results show that selection for RFI in heifers will result in cows that are also more feed efficient.

Effect of crude ethanolic seed extract from Mucuna pruriens on proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest in gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cells

Abstract Background Gastric cancer is a prevalent form of malignancy among many common carcinoma cases globally. This study was designed to assess the anticancer potential of the crude ethanolic seed extract from Mucuna pruriens against the gastric cancer cell line (AGS). Various assays were employed to assess the anticancer properties, including examinations of cell viability, nuclear morphology, apoptosis using AO/EB staining, changes in mitochondrial membrane potential, lactate dehydrogenase activity, DNA fragmentation, and cell cycle arrest. Results The crude extract exhibited significant anticancer activity against the human gastric cancer cell line (AGS), as determined by the MTT assay, with an inhibition concentration (IC50) of 600 µg/mL at 24 h. Distinct cellular and nuclear morphological changes were observed with different concentrations of crude ethanolic seed extract. The LDH release assay reveals cell death in AGS cells, as evidenced by a significant increase in the release of LDH enzyme. DNA fragmentation analysis and flow cytometry results indicate that the extract induces chromatin condensation, apoptotic cell death, and cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase in the AGS cancer cell line. These results highlight the potential therapeutic advantages of Mucuna pruriens seed extract against gastric cancer cells. Conclusion This study could pave the way for identifying diverse natural bioactive compounds sourced from Mucuna pruriens seed, leading to the development of novel drug with potential anticancer properties.

Can Productive Aptitude and Age Affect Circulating Serotonin, Total Thyroid Hormones, and Cortisol Patterns in Cows?

Cattle productivity, whether in terms of meat yield or milk production, is intricately regulated by a multitude of factors. Among them, hormone concentrations play a significant role, reflecting the complex interplay between endocrine regulation and physiological processes that ultimately determine the efficiency and yield of production. High concentrations of 5-hydroxytriptamine (5-HT) are associated with a reduced metabolic load at the onset of lactation and a lower milk yield. Thyroid hormones (THs) and cortisol also affect several metabolic pathways, including carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was to assess if milk or meat aptitudes and age influence circulating 5-HT, THs, and cortisol concentrations, investigating the possible interactions among these parameters. The research was performed on 46 healthy cows of three different breeds. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods were used to quantify circulating 5-HT and cortisol concentrations, and an immunochemiluminescent analyzer was used for THs. For parameters exhibiting non-normal distributions, an ANCOVA model using age, aptitude, and their interaction as fixed factors was applied. Significant lower T3 concentrations were recorded in dairy cows than in meat cows. Moreover, T4 significantly decreased with advancing age both in cows aimed at milk and meat production. Lastly, T4 was positively correlated with T3 and 5-HT in meat production-oriented cows.