Vaccenic Acid Research Articles

Caprine milk fatty acid responses to dietary dried grape pomace

Including grape pomace in goat diets presents a potentially valuable strategy for enhancing the sustainability of goat farming and mitigating environmental risks. This work aimed to investigate the impact of dietary dried grape pomace (DGP) on milk yield, milk composition and milk fatty acid (FA) profile in goats. Gas chromatography was utilised to obtain an extensive profile of FA in milk fat. Dry matter intake, as well as milk yield and composition were not altered by dietary DGP. Despite the predominance of linoleic acid (LA, 18:2 cis-9,cis-12) in the lipids of DGP and the presence of phenolic compounds, its inclusion in the diet did not negatively affect the quantitatively main groups of FA. Furthermore, there was no significant impact on butyric, caproic, caprylic, and capric acids, the major 18:1 trans isomers, including vaccenic acid (18:1 trans-11), LA, α-linolenic acid (18:3 n-3), and the long chain polyunsaturated n-6 and n-3 FA. However, rumenic acid in milk fat was significantly reduced from 0.36 to 0.30 g/100 g of total fatty acid methyl esters. This study supports that up to 6%, DGP can be safely included in conventional dairy goat diets without compromising the production results or altering to great extent the milk FA profile.

Biochemical profiling of selected plant extracts and their antifungal activity in comparison with fungicides against Colletotrichum capsici L. causing anthracnose of Chilli

Chili (Capsicum annuum L.) is the utmost significant cash crop of Pakistan. Annually, about 50% chili yield is reduced by chili anthracnose disease caused by Colletotrichum capsici. The current study was conducted to explore the antifungal potential of plant extracts in comparison with commercial fungicides against C. capsici. Morphologically recognized strains of C. capsici were subjected to pathogenicity assay where strain CC-2 showed a highly virulent response. Results from in-vitro studies showed that Ginger (15 % concentration) inhibited fungal mycelial growth and spore germination and results were comparable to Nativo and Antracol at 1000 ppm. From the protective and curative trials, among plant extracts, Ginger at 15% showed maximum crop protective activity (84%) and maximum curative activity (70%). Consequently, among fungicides, Antracol at 1000 ppm showed highest crop protective activity (92%) and maximum curative efficacy (96%). The results of pot experiments showed that among the plant extracts, Ginger significantly inhibited C. capsici and increased plant growth while among fungicides, Antracol was found to be more effective than Nativo. PCA explored the correlation between growth parameters of chili plants treated with plant extracts and fungicides. Biochemical profiling and phytochemical characterization indicated the presence of tannins, phenols, terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, reducing sugars and anthraquinones in ginger and chicory extracts. Ginger showed the highest DPPH scavenging activity (64.9 ± 1.85) as compared to chicory (54.6 ± 2.8). GC–MS analysis of plant extracts revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds including Ethanol, Acetone, 2-Butanone, Trichloromethane, 2-Butanone, 4-(4‑hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-, Gingerol, 1, 2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, diisooctyl ester, Hexane, Glycerin, Sucrose, Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester, 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-, methyl ester, 1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono (2-ethylhexyl) ester, n-Hexadecanoic acid, cis-Vaccenic acid, 1-Monolinoleoylglycerol trimethylsilyl ether, and 9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid, 2-[(trimethylsilyl)oxy]-1-[[(trimethylsilyl)oxy] methyl]ethyl ester, (Z,Z,Z). FTIR analysis showed 12, 8 and 13 peak values respectively indicating the presence of important functional groups. NMR analysis showed 4 and 7 peak values of ginger and chicory extracts indicating the structures of functional groups. There is a need to test the disease suppressive potential of plant extracts under field conditions to manage other fatal plant pathogens.

Cladodes of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) as a source of bioactive compounds in dairy products

Recently, the interest in improving livestock product nutraceutical profiles through sustainable feeding systems has increased. In this context, the overall quality and nutraceutical profiles were examined in dairy products obtained from 16 lactating Cinisara cows given an integrated feed in dry season with Opuntia ficus-indica cladodes. Two homogeneous groups of cows (milk yield: 6.3 ± 1.5 kg; body weight: 213 ± 55 kg) were fed with 2 different diets (CON: pasture and wheat bran; OFI: pasture, wheat bran, and cladodes), according to a 2 × 2 Latin square design. The bulk milk produced during the study was used to make Caciotta cheese and was analyzed at 0, 15, and 30 storage days. Milk and cheese samples were analyzed for chemical, physical, and microbiological traits. The nutraceutical and sensorial profiles, as well as the antioxidant capacity, were also determined in the final products. For milk, the urea content in individual samples was reduced in OFI but not in CON. In the cheese, integration of cladodes did not influence the starter cultures development with 2 strains of Streptococcus thermophilus, but it caused a higher content of polyphenols and a consequent greater antioxidant capacity and a change in the fatty acids profile. In particular, the caprylic, capric, lauric, myristic, and palmitic fatty acids were higher, as were the petroselinic, vaccenic, rumenic, and α-linolenic fatty acids. In contrast, the oleic and the γ-linolenic fatty acids were lower for OFI. The cheese from the OFI group showed better overall acceptability, and a higher yellow color, odor intensity, and butter flavor. The multivariate analysis well distinguished the cheeses belonging to the 2 groups. Further investigations should be conducted to formulate well-balanced diets that include cladodes for Cinisara lactating cows, but also to determine the content of other important bioactive compounds in fresh and treated cladodes, as well as their effects on animal welfare and production.

Effects of Hemp Seed on the Production, Fatty Acid Profile, and Antioxidant Capacity of Milk from Goats Fed Hay or a Mixed Shrubs-Grass Rangeland.

The research objective was to evaluate the effect of dietary incorporation of hemp seeds in goats fed with hay or mixed shrubs-grass rangeland on the production, FA profile and health-related lipid indices, antioxidant content and total antioxidant capacity of milk, with the purpose to increase the content of beneficial ingredients in milk and to improve its functional activity. Forty indigenous Carpathian goats were allocated into two groups according to the type of basic forage in their diet: hay (H) or mixed shrubs-grass rangeland (SG); each of them was further divided into two subgroups according to the presence of Hs in the concentrate mixture (250 g/kg) or not. Milk production was determined, and milk samples were collected and analyzed for fat, protein, lactose, and cholesterol content, as well as FA profile, lipophilic antioxidant content (α-tocopherol and retinol), and milk TAC. SG goats gave less milk (p < 0.01) but with higher milk fat (p < 0.001) and lower cholesterol content (p < 0.01) than H goats, while milk protein and lactose contents were not affected. Supplementing the diet with Hs caused a significant increase in milk production (p < 0.05) and milk fat content (p < 0.001) and a decrease in cholesterol content (p < 0.05). Grazing compared to indoor feeding but also supplementing the diet with Hs had the effect of decreasing the proportion of SFAs and increasing the concentrations of polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) in goat milk fat (p < 0.01). Fats in the milk of SG goats compared to H, but also in those supplemented with Hs, showed significantly higher proportions of vaccenic acid (VA), rumenic acid (CLA c-9,t-11) and omega-3 FA (α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA)) which are considered healthy for consumers. The feeding system based on SG and the diet supplementation with Hs ensured the best nutritional and functional quality of milk, confirmed by the FA profile, antioxidant content, and by the value of health-related lipid indices (n-6/n-3 FA ratio and hypo-/hypercholesterolemia, atherogenic index (AI), thrombogenic index (TI), and health promotion index (HPI)). The results of our work will be useful for the development of optimal nutritional strategies that improve the FA profile and the antioxidants content in goat milk, with beneficial effects on human health.

PSI-20 Trans Vaccenic Acid Does Not Improve Insulin Resistance in Diet Induced Obese Mice

Abstract Trans vaccenic acid (TVA, trans11-18:1) is a natural trans fatty acid that is exclusively found in ruminant fats such as dairy, beef, and lamb. Increased circulating concentrations of TVA and its metabolites are epidemiologically related to a reduced risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, direct causative evidence is lacking, and the mechanisms are poorly understood. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether TVA can alleviate insulin resistance in diet-induced obese mice when compared with oleic acid (OA, cis9-18:1, the major dietary cis 18:1 isomer) or trans10-18:1 (a major industrial trans fatty acid isomer). Forty-eight male C57BL/6J mice (7 weeks old) were fed either a low-fat diet (LFD,10% kcal total fat), a high-fat diet (HFD) enriched with OA (HFD-OA; 45% kcal total fat, 6% kcal from pure OA), an HFD enriched with TVA (HFD-TVA; 45% kcal total fat, 6% kcal from pure TVA), or an HFD enriched with trans-10 18:1 (HFD-T10; 45% kcal total fat, 6% kcal from pure trans-10 18:1) for 19 weeks. The metabolic phenotype was characterized using a glucose tolerance test (GTT) and insulin tolerance test (ITT). Insulin-sensitive tissues (muscle, liver, and adipose) were harvested and extracted for protein, which was analyzed for protein kinase B (Akt) and phosphorylated Akt (pAKT) by western blot using Vinculin as a loading control. The resulting band intensities were quantitated using the FluorChem 9900 program (Alpha Innotech). pAkt expression was normalized to Akt. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s test. Our GTT results suggested a greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) glucose intolerance in both HFD-TVA and HFD-T10 groups compared with the LFD group. Whereas HFD-OA-fed mice maintained their glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity despite greater body weight and adiposity. In agreement with GTT and ITT results, we found reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.05) Akt phosphorylation in the muscle of both HFD-TVA and HFD-T10 groups compared with LFD while there was no difference in phosphorylation level in the liver and adipose. In conclusion, this work demonstrates that contrary to our initial hypothesis, a large dose of TVA (6% of calorie intake) promotes glucose intolerance and insulin resistance in HFD-fed mice. Further studies using the typical intake of TVA in humans (0.5 to 1% of calorie intake) are required to better understand the effects of TVA on glucose homeostasis.

Health effects of ruminant trans fatty acids with emphasis on type 2 diabetes

Recent government bans on industrial trans fatty acids (TFA) in developed countries has left naturally occurring TFA from ruminant products (e.g., dairy, beef, and lamb) as the sole source of TFA in the food supply. In contrast to industrial TFA, which have undisputed adverse health effects, ruminant TFA such as trans vaccenic acid (TVA; trans11-18:1), rumenic acid (RA; cis9, trans11-18:2) and trans palmitoleic acid (TPA; trans9-16:1) have been associated with reduced risk for some diseases such as type 2 diabetes. The present review summarizes the findings from observational, animal and human studies investigating the effects of ruminant TFA on metabolic parameters related to type 2 diabetes, and provides an update on the current knowledge of their biosynthesis, intake and factors affecting their concentrations in ruminant derived foods. Overall, observational studies and a small number of animal studies suggest that ruminant TFA may be protective against type 2 diabetes, whereas the same benefits have not been observed in other animal studies or in human clinical trials. Additional clinical and mechanistic studies are needed to better understand the isomer-specific effects of ruminant TFA. Until then, production practices resulting in increased levels of this group of fatty acids in ruminant milk and meat should be carefully reconsidered.

Identification of antioxidant compounds from the stem bark fraction of Strychnosinnocua Del.

Strychnos innocua is a shrub that is native to the tropic region of the world. It is used locally as food, medicine, fuel, and as an insect repellent. Extracts of this plant are used as an aphrodisiac and in the treatment of gonorrhoea, snakebite and dysentery. It has been proven to possess antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. There is little or no information on the identification and pharmacological activities of the chemical composition of the stem bark of this plant. The aim of this work is to identify the chemical compounds present in this plant and determine their antioxidant activities. The ethyl acetate extract of this plant was subjected to purification techniques which lead to the isolation of fraction SI1. The chemical composition of the fraction SI1 was then determined using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GCMS). Fractions SI1 was then analysed for its free radical scavenging potential using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Ferric ion reducing antioxidant property (FRAP) assay. A total of thirty compounds were identified with the major compounds being Cyclohex-2-enone,3-)2H-tetrazol-5-yl amino) (15.83 %), N-hexadecanoic acid (38.21%), N-hexadecanoic acid (38.21%), Octadecanoic acid (13.41%), Cis-vaccenic acid (13.41 %). The DPPH radical scavenging potential of the fraction SI1 compares well with the standard, ascorbic acid with IC50 of 3.71 ± 0.31 μg/mL and 1.68 ± 1.27 μg/mL, respectively. At 500 μg/mL, the antioxidant potential of the standard ascorbic acid was 96.9% whereas the fraction SI1 had 62.1% free DPPH radical scavenging activity. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of SI1 observed is 0.0488 ± 0.01 nm, and 0.5375 ± 0.01 nm and for ascorbic acid. In conclusion, fraction SI1 can act as an antioxidant supplement for various applications in diverse fields of food, cosmetics, and medicine. Several compounds contained in the fraction SI1 may have contributed to the antioxidant properties of the fraction. The compounds identified could be useful precursors for the synthesis of therapeutic drugs associated with the treatment of human and animal diseases.

Sustainable utilization of unsaleable walnut kernel in substitution for corn grain in the diet of fattening lambs improves growth performance and meat quality.

As a cost-effective typical co-product of walnut processing; this study aimed to investigate the effects of feeding poor quality, unsaleable walnut kernel, also known as wasted walnut (WW) kernel, on growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality and fatty acid (FA) composition of fattening lambs. The experiment was conducted using 24 fattening lambs (27 ±1.07 kg initial BW) assigned to two total mixed concentrate-based diets, over a 80-day experimental period on a completely randomized design. Dietary treatments were: 1) WW (10% WW), and 2) CON (without WW). Average daily and total gain, and final weight increased with WW inclusion (P < 0.05). Also, a significant enhancement in feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05) and carcass cooler shrink loss (P = 0.03) were observed by feeding WW. Dry matter intake (DMI) was not influenced by feeding WW as did carcass prime cuts, meat, bone and fat-tail; however, the backfat thickness was increased (P = 0.01). WW inclusion reduced cholesterol and increased protein load in muscle tissue (P ≤ 0.05). Moreover, this inclusion led to higher concentration of vaccenic acid (VA), conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and C20 polyunsaturated FAs (PUFA), total n3 and n6 PUFA in muscle and fat-tail (P ≤ 0.05). Due to enhanced animal performance, also chemical and FA composition of muscle and adipose tissue, WW can be included in fattening lamb diets as a rich source of protein and PUFA.

Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis and uv absorptivity of bio-oils extracted from some locally grown plant seeds in nothern Nigeria

Oils play vital roles in various ramifications including health, and food industries. Oils which are components of plant seeds can be extracted using various extraction techniques. This research is an exposition into the chemistry of oils with possible repositioning for purposeful use in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industries especially as sunscreen. In this work, oils were extracted from nine different seeds and subjected to gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, and Ultraviolet analysis. The extraction method adopted in this work shows that 5 out of the 9 seeds have a relatively high percentage yield ranging from 20.9 to 36.8 % which indicates their potential for use in commercial quantity. The GC- MS analysis shows that (Z, Z)- 9, 12-Octadecadienoic acid is the most abundant components of all the oil samples. n-Hexadecanoic acid and cis-Vaccenic acid are the major constituents of Swietenia macrophylla (mahogany) seed oil. The lead components in the oil samples are usually responsible for their physico-chemical and Ultraviolet interactivities. All the samples were found to have adequate absorbance for Ultraviolet radiation ranging from Ultraviolet C to Ultraviolet A region. Citrullus lanatus, Hyptis spicigera, and Swietenia macrophylla (mahogany) have the highest absorbance ranges of 1.394–1.718, 1.449 to 1.70,2 and 1.402 to 1.711 respectively at Ultraviolet A region. The finding shows that all the samples have the ability to protect the skin from Ultraviolet radiation when expose to the sun, whereas only Citrullus lanatus, Hyptis spicigera and Swietenia macrophylla (mahogany) have the potentials for use as sunscreen with high sun protection factor. Further studies on the antimicrobial activities, cosmeceutical and nutraceutical potentials of the various components of these samples are encouraged.

De Novo Biosynthesis of Free Vaccenic Acid with a Low Content of Oleic Acid in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Omega-7 (ω-7) fatty acids have potential application in the fields of nutraceutical, agricultural, and food industry. The natural ω-7 fatty acids are currently from plants or vegetable oils, which are unsustainable and limited by the availability of plant sources. Here, we developed an innovative biosynthetic route to produce vaccenic acid (C18:1 ω-7) while minimizing oleic acid (C18:1 ω-9) content in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We have engineered S. cerevisiaeto produce C18:1 ω-7 by expressing a fatty acid elongase from Rattus norvegicus. To reduce the content of C18:1 ω-9, the endogenous desaturase Ole1 was replaced by the desaturase, which has specific activity on palmitoyl-coenzyme A (C16:0-CoA). Finally, the production of free C18:1 ω-7 was improved by optimizing the source of cytochrome b5 and overexpressing endoplasmic reticulum chaperones. After combining these strategies, the yield of C18:1 ω-7 was increased from 0 to 9.3 mg/g DCW and C18:1 ω-9 was decreased from 25.2 mg/g DCW to 1.6 mg/g DCW. This work shows a de novo synthetic pathway to produce the highest amount of free C18:1 ω-7 with a low content of C18:1 ω-9 in S. cerevisiae.

Toxicity and chemical compounds of Piper aduncum fruit extract against storage pest Sitophilus oryzae and Callosobruchus maculatus

Insect pests of rice weevil of Sitophilus oryzae and cowpea beetles of Callosobruchus maculatus can reduce the quality and quantity of stored products. Various alternatives development to control insect pests more safely were necessary. Botanical insecticides can be used as an alternative control because of their several advantages. One of the potential plants as a source for botanical insecticides is Piper aduncum (Piperaceae). This study aimed to determine the chemical constituents of ethyl acetate extract of P. aduncum fruit (Ea-Pa) and to assess its toxicity against S. oryzae and C. maculatus female adults by contact residue. The most abundant chemical compound of Ea-Pa was dillapiol (61.54%). Dillapiol was one compound that might be responsible for the insecticidal properties, as well as ylangene, naphthalene, piperitone, hexadecanoic acid, β-eudesmene, α-cubebene, δ-cadinene, myristicin, cis-vaccenic acid, pregnane steroids, octacosane, pyridine, sitosterol, and caryophyllene. The toxicity assay results showed that the Ea-Pa was more toxic against female adults of C. maculatus than S. oryzae. The LC50 values for female adults of S. oryzae and C. maculatus were 4.05% and 0.17%, whereas LC95 values were 116.40% and 4.95%, respectively. Therefore, the Ea-Pa could be further improved as a natural insecticide to manage pest insects in storage.

Larvicidal property and active compound profiling of Annona squamosa leaf extracts against two species of diptera, Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi.

Vector control measures are important in lowering the spread of infections spread by mosquito. Synthetic pesticides used to suppress vector populations during the larval stage have had adverse impacts on people and the environment. The early III instar larvae of Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi were the targets of the current experiment, which assessed the larvicidal ability of petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, and aqueous extracts of Annona squamosa leaves. Using the standard World Health Organization (WHO) larval bioassay test, leaf extracts were evaluated for their activity against Ae. aegypti and An. stephensi to determine lethal doses. Phytochemical analysis and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were carried out to identify larvicidal components in the extract. Further analysis using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was done to check the extracts toxicity for both mosquito larvae. The larvicidal active components were identified by GC-MS as tetradecanoic acid, cis-vaccenic acid, and 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol etc. Methanol leaf extracts of A. squamosa (ASME) exhibited strong larvicidal activity against the early 3rd instar larvae of Ae. aegypti and An. stephensi with Lethal concentration (LC50) values of 51.450 ppm and 107.121 ppm. Cell damages to the larva post exposure to ASME were examined. This finding showed that the ASME has better larvicidal activity and its components that may be used to kill larvae as larvicides. The extracts toxicity towards damage of midgut of larva further suggests that this plant methanol leaf extracts could be effective in larval growth control approaches.

Impact of parity on the profile of fatty acids with potential importance for human health in camel (Camelus dromedarius) milk

The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of parity on the proportion of fatty acids with potential health significance in camel milk fat. Milk samples were collected from four multiparous and four primiparous camels in intensive husbandry at mid-lactation stage. Fatty acid methyl esters were analysed by gas chromatography in conjunction with a flame ionisation detector. Parity had a significant effect on fat and total solids content (p&lt;0.05); mutiparous camels produced milk with lower fat and total solids content. In contrast, protein and ash content were not affected by parity (p&gt;0.05). Primipara camels produced milk richer (p&lt;0.05) in odd and branched chain fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, C17:0, C15:0, omega-3 fatty acids, oleic acid, vaccenic acid and α-linolenic acid, while poorer (p&lt;0.05) for total short-chain fatty acids, total medium-chain fatty acids, total saturated fatty acids, C6:0, C10:0, C14:0, c9-C16:0, C16:0 and iso-C16:0. In addition, the desaturation index for C16, which is an indicator of Δ9-desaturase activity, and the atherogenicity index were lower in primiparous camels (p&lt;0.05). Parity had no effect on conjugated linoleic acid content (p&gt;0.05). Overall, the milk fat of primiparous camels appears to have a relatively high nutritional value, as it contained higher levels of beneficial fatty acids and lower levels of saturated fatty acids.

Postpartum Body Condition Score (BCS) and Lactation Stage (30 and 60 Days) Affecting Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) and Milk Quality of Najdi Sheep.

Body condition scoring (BCS) can be used to assess the energy reserves of sheep during feeding, production, and weaning. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of BCS after parturition in stages of lactation (30 and 60 days) on the milk quality of Najdi ewes. The ewes were milked in the morning after their lambs had been isolated. Milk composition and fatty acid profiles (FA) were analyzed at 30 and 60 days of lactation after assessment of the sheep's body condition. The sheep were classified into the following body conditions: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0. Sheep milk contained significant (p < 0.05) levels of protein at a BCS of 3.5 and on day 60 of lactation. The ewes with a BCS of 2.5 had a high milk content (p < 0.05) of unsaturated fatty acids (USFA), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), oleic acid (OA), vaccenic acid (VA), and LA at day 60 of lactation. This result shows that the ewes with a BCS of 2.5 were able to produce high-quality milk, and 60 days of lactation was the preferred time for producing good milk and tasty and healthy dairy products.

Dynamics of Fatty Acids in Pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) Larvae and Juveniles during Early Rearing and Weaning in a Commercial RAS—Implications for Dietary Refinement

The aquaculture production of pikeperch has reached commercial scale in a number of European countries, but the high mortality of early life cycle stages and minor understanding of nutritional requirements are still major bottlenecks. To investigate the fate of fatty acids during early development, weaning and rearing, pikeperch larvae and juveniles from a commercial recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) were sampled over 2 months for morphometric data, as well as fatty acid composition, with a total of 6 sampling days, with four to five replicates per sampling day and between 1 and 25 pikeperch larvae per individual sample, depending on larval biomass. The biomass of sampled pikeperch larvae varied from 0.1 to 420 mg (dry mass DM), depending on the age of the larvae, and the initial length of the pikeperch larvae was about 4.5 mm. Our data confirm that, accompanied by an exponential increase in dry mass, total fatty acids (TFAs) in larval tissues increased with the beginning of exogenous feed uptake and were depleted between days 13 and 25 post hatch, most likely associated with the weaning and metamorphosis of the larvae. We conclude that all fatty acid classes may serve as metabolic fuel during metamorphosis, but the ultimate fatty acid composition is strongly impacted by the available feed. The chosen diet probably caused a lack of alpha-linolenic (18:3n-3; ALA) and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3; DHA) during larval development and a shortage of vaccenic (18:1n-7), alpha-linolenic (18:3n-3; ALA) and arachidonic acid (20:4n-6; ARA) in juvenile pikeperch. This led to low DHA/EPA ratios 13 days post hatch, a high EPA/ARA ratio at days 41 and 56 post hatch and a fluctuating ratio of alpha-linolenic acid to linoleic acid (18:2n-6; LA). A temporary lack of essential fatty acids can cause dysfunctions and eventually mortalities in pikeperch larvae and juveniles. Despite high larval growth rates, the biochemical composition of the first fed Artemia and microdiets was most likely not sufficient and in need of improvement. We suggest that deficiencies must be compensated, e.g., through the substitution of the offered Artemia with more suitable live feed organisms, such as freshwater rotifers, and the enrichment of current microdiets in order to prevent high mortalities during pikeperch rearing and weaning.

Anti-obesity and antihyperlipidemic effects of Phaleria macrocarpa fruit liquid CO2 extract: In vitro, in silico and in vivo approaches

ObjectivePhaleria macrocarpa fruit has been reported to be effectively used in Malaysia and neighboring countries to prevent obesity. Despite its anti-obesity potential, no research has ever predicted the compound-lipase, compound-HMG-CoA reductase interactions and in vivo investigations to further confirm its anti-obesity properties. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the anti-obesity and antihyperlipidemic effects of P. macrocarpa by in vitro, computational (in silico), and in vivo assays. MethodInitially, fruit was extracted through liquid CO2 and heating under reflux extraction methods to obtain liquid CO2 extracts (LCE-1 and LCE-2) and heating under reflux extract (HRE), respectively. Subsequently, all three extracts were assessed for antioxidant potentials through in vitro bioassays and FTIR analysis to identify different types of functional groups present in the existing bioactive compounds. Successively, the most active fraction (LCE-2) was subjected to GCMS analysis for the identification of lipid lowering and lipase inhibitors through molecular docking approach. Finally, anti-obesity and lipid lowering effects were further confirmed through an in vivo assay using mice. ResultLCE-2 exhibited higher DPPH (IC50 = 0.172 mg/mL) and FRAP (78.98 AAEmg/g) antioxidant activities and showed more potent peaks in FTIR chromatograms than LCE-1 and HRE. Among the identified tentative bioactive compounds viz. methyl palmitate, palmitic acid, ethyl palmitate, methyl oleate, oleic acid, cis-vaccenic acid, 3-deoxyestradiol and phenol, 2,2′-methylenebis[6-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-methyl- were found as an anti-obesity and lipid lowering compounds whose protein–ligand interaction was confirmed by binding affinity, amino acid residues and bonding interactions. Similarly, anti-obesity and lipid lowering findings were also found in a mice model after 6 weeks treatment at a dose of 250 mg/kg b.w. ConclusionBased on the aforementioned in vitro, in silico and in vivo findings, it is concluded that the LCE-2 possesses lipase and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors that can assist to develop this plant’s extract as an alternative safe lipid lowering herbal medicine in future.

Valorization of Olive Mill Byproducts: Recovery of Biophenol Compounds and Application in Animal Feed.

This study aimed to recover the phenols from olive oil mill wastewater, a major pollutant of the oil industry, by using spray-drying technology to produce a new feed with a nutraceutical value for animal feed supplementation and to evaluate its effect on the productivity and nutritional quality of ewe milk. Forty-five Sarda ewes in late lactation (150 ± 2 d) and with homogeneous live weight (52 ± 1.5 kg) were randomly allotted into three groups and fed with three dietary treatments containing increasing levels of polyphenols: 0% (C), 0.1% (T0.1), and 0.2% (T0.2) of dry matter. No effect of the dietary treatments was found on the milk yield and composition. Interestingly, milk urea content (p < 0.0001) and somatic cell counts (p < 0.001) decreased as the level of polyphenols inclusion in the diet increased. The inclusion of phenols (0.2% of dry matter) in the diet of sheep was effective in increasing the vaccenic (C18:1 trans-11) and rumenic acid (C18: cis-9 trans-11) levels, which are beneficial for human health. Finally, the recovery of polyphenols via spray-drying technology and their incorporation into a new fortified feed can be a valid strategy for naturally improving the nutritional value of milk while valorizing an oil industry byproduct, reducing environmental impact, and promoting waste reuse that is in line with circular economy principles.

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry analysis of bioactive compounds of &lt;i&gt;Curcuma longa&lt;/i&gt; leaves extract

Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) is a unique plant that combines the properties of a spice, colorant, cosmetic, and drug. As a medicinal plant, it is used by traditional healers in the treatment of ailments such as diabetic wounds, rheumatism arthritis, multiple sclerosis etc. This study was carried out to determine the presence of potential bioactive compounds present in Curcuma longa leaves. The bioactive compounds were extracted using the Soxhlet method of extraction and was analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. The presence of eleven chemical constituents was identified in the GC-MS analysis of Curcuma longa leaves aqueous extract. This includes Cis-13- octadecenoic acid, methyl ester (28.40%), Cis- vaccenic acid (17.14%), Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (16.40%), n- Hexadecanoic acid (15.59%), Heptadecanoic acid, 16-methyl-, thylester (6.03%), Oleic Acid (6.02%) as well as compounds which were identified at low level. The GC-MS analysis of Curcuma longa leaves extract showed the presence of bioactive constituents which could have important medicinal properties. As a result, the presence of these bioactive constituents could be responsible for the therapeutic properties of the plant which can be used to develop new antimicrobials.

Evaluation of Phytochemical Compounds in Senna siamea stembark Powders for Insect Pest Control

A laboratory screening was conducted to evaluate the phytochemical compounds in Senna siamea stembark powders and their insecticidal activity on Callosobruchus subinnotatus PIC on stored Bambara groundnut through untargeted Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry (GC- MS) using three different extraction solvents (ethanol, methanol and distilled water). To mention but few, the ethanol extracts revealed Octanoic acid, 4,6-dimethyl-, methyl ester, (4S,6S)-(+)- (C11H22O2); cis-Vaccenic acid (C19H36O2); Z,Z-10,12-Hexadecadien-1-ol acetate (C18H32O2); 2-Methyl-Z,Z-3,13-octadecadienol (C19H36O). Methanol extracts showed Oleic Acid (C18H34O2); Cyclononasiloxane, octadecamethyl- (C18H54O9Si9); Cyclodecasiloxane, eicosamethyl- (C20H60O10Si10); 2-Methyl-Z,Z-3,13-octadecadienol (C19H36O). Distilled water extraction revealed cis-Vaccenic acid (C19H36O2); 1,2-Benzisothiazole,3-(hexahydro- 1H-azepin-1-yl)-, 1,1-dioxide (C13H16N2O2S); Oleic Acid (C18H34O2); 11-Octadecenoic acid, methyl ester (C19H36O2)as compounds with the highest percentage area. Phytochemicals have been used for many years to control insect pest damage in agricultural crops. Pyretre, Nicotine, Rotenone and tobacco have long been used as control agents against insects in some regions of sub-Saharan Africa. Unlike synthetic chemical insecticides that kill both pests and non-target organisms, botanicals pesticides are relatively target specific. They are also biodegradable, environmentally friendly, and can also be used in insecticide resistance management programs. Hence, could serve as good alternatives to chemical insecticides. Further research on the bio insecticidal activity of these compounds is highly advocated.

Comparing dehulled hemp meal and canola meal as a protein supplement for lactating dairy cows

Effects of replacing canola meal with dehulled hemp meal in the diet of lactating dairy cows on the dry matter intake (DMI), milk production, milk fatty acid profile, blood metabolites, total-tract nutrient digestibility, and transfer of cannabinoids were determined in 12 lactating, nonpregnant Holstein cows. These cows were used in a 3 × 3 Latin square design with three 3-wk experimental periods consisting of 2 wk of adaptation and 1 wk of sampling. Cows received basal partial mixed rations supplemented with either 15% dry matter (DM) canola meal (CM15), 15% DM dehulled hemp meal (HM15), or 7.5% DM dehulled hemp meal and 7.5% DM canola meal (CM7.5HM7.5). Diets were formulated to be isoenergetic and isonitrogenous, but the HM15 and CM7.5HM7.5 diets contained, on average 1.2 percentage units more crude protein (CP) that the CM15 diet. The CP of the dehulled hemp meal contained less soluble protein than that of canola meal. Hence, the intake of soluble protein did not differ among diets. Canola meal contained less crude fat than hemp seed meal (3.46% vs. 8.25% DM). The lipid fraction of canola meal fat contained more oleic acid (C18:1 cis-9; 47.3 vs. 14.9 g/100 g of fatty acids, FA) and vaccenic acid (18:1 cis-11; 13.7 vs. 1.2 g/100 g of FA) and less linoleic acid (C18:2n-6; 21.9 vs. 55.7 g/100 g of FA) and α linolenic acid (C18:3n-3; 3.2 vs. 8.9 g/100 g of FA) than the lipid fraction of hemp seed meal. The hemp seed meal contained 4.9 µg/g cannabidiol, 5.1 µg/g cannabidiolic acid, and 0.1 µg/g tertahydroxycannabinolic acid A. Treatments did not differ in DMI, yields of milk, milk protein and milk fat, total-tract neutral detergent fiber digestibility, and blood plasma concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate and nonesterified FA. Apparent total-tract DM digestibility was lowest in the HM15 treatment, whereas the CP digestibility and the concentrations of urea in blood, urine, and milk were lowest in the CM15 treatment. Cannabinoids were not detected in urine, milk, and blood plasma. Replacing canola meal with hemp seed meal increased milk fat contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), which were 3.42, 3.90, and 4.25 g/100 g of FA for the CM15, CM7.5HM7.5, and HM15 treatments, respectively. Especially, the milk fat contents of 18:2n-6 (1.99 vs. 1.56 g/100 g FA) and 18:3n-3 (0.31 vs. 0.43 g/100 g FA) were increased by hemp meal feeding. Especially, the milk fat contents of 18:2n-6 (1.99 vs. 1.56 g/100 g FA) and 18:3n-3 (0.31 vs. 0.43 g/100 g FA) were increased by hemp meal feeding. Our data show that hemp seed meal is a suitable and safe replacement for canola meal as a feed for lactating dairy cows and that this replacement increases CP digestibility and urea in urine, milk, and blood plasma, as well the PUFA content of milk fat.