Palmitic Acid Content Research Articles

Extraction, Physicochemical, Fatty Acid Analysis of Chrysophyllum Albidum (African Star Apple) Seed Oil and Nutrient Composition of the Fruit Parts.

In tropical Africa, Chrysophyllum albidum fruit is useful as food and also has many industrial applications. In this study, oil was extracted from the seeds of C. albidum using normal hexane as the extracting solvent. The average percentage oil recovery using 10g, 20g, 30g, 40g and 50g of thee seed sample was 11.56 % which showed that the seed may not be a good source of abundant oil The physical characterization of the extracted oil showed the density of 0.85 g/ml and pH value of 10.30. The specific gravity of the oil was 0.85 at 20°C which is lower than 0.998 at 20°C, the specific gravity of water indicating that the oil is less dense than water. The oil could be classified as a non-drying oil since its iodine value of 34.00mg/100g was lower than 100. The saponification value was 201.96mg/gKOH. The GC-MS result of the fatty acid composition analysis showed the major fatty acid contained in the oil as palmitic acid, palmitoleic and linoleic acids with percentage weights of 53.97%, 18.40% and 10.25% respectively. The total saturated and unsaturated fatty acid composition were 71.16% and 28.84% respectively. The high percentage of the palmitic acid content of the oil indicated that it could be used as a good substitiute for palm oil in industrial production of products. From the result of the proximate analysis, protein had the least content in the fruit. The C.albidum fruit peel, pulp, seed flesh, seed shell and seed contained 2.45%, 3.15%, 0.50%, 0.98% and 0.23% of protein respectively. The moisture content of the fruit peel, pulp, seed flesh, seed shell and seed were 65.00%, 85.00%, 85.00%, 55.00% and 70% respectively. The high moisture content of the fruit implies that it will have a short shelf life. From the result of the mineral analysis, the C. albidum peel was found to contain all the minerals analysed and in high percentage too. Na content was 8.962ppm, K was 21.565ppm, Ca was 48.587ppm, Mg was 19.240ppm and Fe was 10.539. It is advisable for people to consume the fruit peel rather than discarding it as some. The iron content of the seed shell was the highest while potassium content of the pulp was the highest. Analysis of the peel, pulp and seed flesh confirmed the high average value of 17.37 mg/100g of vitamin C in the fruit.

Effect of Lincomycin and Butyrate Glycerides Supplementation on Performance, Blood Biochemical Constituents, Immune Response and Nutrient Absorption Related Gene Expression in Broilers

Abstract Over 35 days feeding trial, the effects of lincomycin (LM) and butyrate glycerides (BG) supplementation on the growth performance, blood biochemical changes, immune response, and nutrient absorption related gene expression in broiler chickens were evaluated. A total of 480 one- day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were allotted into 6 groups (8 replicates/group with 10 birds/replicate). Experimental groups were arranged as follows; control group (A) fed the basal diet (BD); B, C, and D groups were fed the BD supplemented with 350, 500 and 1000 g BG/ton of feed respectively. While group E was fed the BD with 350 + 500 + 1000 g BG/ton of feed during starter, grower, and finisher periods, respectively, and finally group F which received lincomycin (LM) antibiotic (100 g/ton) in overall periods. Broilers that received BG in group E (birds supplemented with BG at 350 + 500 + 1000 g/ton feed) and LM (F) supplements both gained more body weight and weight growth (P<0.05). Lower feed intake and improved fcr were observed in all the experimental groups that received either BG or lm compared to control birds (P<0.05). Lower serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) (P<0.05) were recorded in the lm or BG supplemented birds compared to the control. Higher immune response represented by enhanced antibody titer against H9N1, and newcastle disease (ND) and lower hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) was obtained in groups D, E and F (P<0.05) compared to the other groups. Higher gene expression of GSH-Px, Glut 2, PepT1 and FAS was obtained in groups D, E and F (P<0.05) compared to the control. Supplemental BG or LM increased the unsaturated fatty acids (oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids) while lowered the palmitic acid contents in breast muscle (P<0.05) compared to control. In conclusion, supplementing broilers’ diets with BG or lincomycin improved their growth performance, immune response and muscle fatty acid profile as well as modulatory role in lipid metabolism. Supplementing starter, grower, and finisher broiler diets with BG at 350 + 500 + 1000 g/ton each may be a useful substitute for lincomycin.

Huang-Lian-Jie-Du decoction drug-containing serum inhibits IL-1β secretion from D-glucose and PA induced BV2 cells via autophagy/NLRP3 signaling

Ethnopharmacological relevanceHuang-Lian-Jie-Du decoction (HLJDD), a famous traditional Chinese medicine prescription with heat-clearing and detoxifying effects, has been widely used to treat diabetes, dementia, stroke, and other diseases. However, the detailed mechanisms of HLJDD against type 2 diabetes associated cognitive dysfunction (DACD) through inhibiting interleukin-1β (IL-1β) mediated neuroinflammation remain to be further elucidated. Aim of the studyThe aim of this study was to investigate the effect and potential mechanism of HLJDD on IL-1β secretion in a DACD model of BV2 cells induced by D-glucose and palmitic acid (PA). Materials and methodsUltra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/electrostatic field orbital well high-resolution mass spectrometry technology was used to analyze the compounds in HLJDD drug-containing serum. The cytotoxicity was detected by cell counting kit-8. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the secretion of IL-1β in BV2 cells. Reactive oxygen species, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde kits were used to detect the intracellular oxidative stress levels. The autophagy level was determined by autophagy staining kit and transmission electron microscope. The expression levels of autophagy-related 7 (Atg7), P62, LC3, nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, pyrin domain-containing-3(NLRP3), Caspase1, and IL-1β were detected by real-time PCR, immunofluorescence, and western blotting. The Atg7siRNA was transfected into BV2 cells to produce autophagy inhibitory effect. Then the effect of HLJDD drug-containing serum on IL-1β secretion in D-glucose and PA induced BV2 cells and the potential mechanism of autophagy-NLRP3 inflammasome activation were further observed. ResultsEighty-eight compounds were preliminarily identified in HLJDD drug-containing serum, among which geniposide, baicalin, palmatine, berberine, wogonoside, wogonin, and geniposidic acid were identified as the main prototype components of HLJDD into the blood. In this study, the DACD model of BV2 cells induced by high concentrations of glucose and PA was successfully constructed. HLJDD drug-containing serum significantly reduced the secretion of IL-1β and the activity of NLRP3 inflammasome with improving the oxidative stress level. Interestingly, the enhanced autophagy level was also found. After transfection of Atg7siRNA into BV2 cells, the effect of HLJDD drug-containing serum on autophagy promotion was reversed, but the inhibitory effects on IL-1β secretion, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and oxidative stress were reduced. ConclusionsThese results indicated that the inhibition of HLJDD drug-containing serum on the IL-1β secretion in D-glucose and PA induced BV2 cells was related to autophagy promotion, the decreased NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and the improved oxidative stress. Moreover, the improvement of HLJDD drug-containing serum on IL-1β secretion, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and oxidative stress were all closely associated with Atg7 mediated autophagy promotion. Geniposide, baicalin, palmatine, berberine, wogonoside, wogonin, and geniposidic acid may be the potential active ingredients of HLJDD drug-containing serum.

Combined transcriptome and metabolome analysis of sugar and fatty acid of aromatic coconut and non-aromatic coconut in China

Sugar and fatty acid content are among the important factors that contribute to the intensity of flavor in aromatic coconut. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the sugar and fatty acid metabolites in the flesh of aromatic coconuts, along with identifying the key synthetic genes, is of significant importance for improving the development of desirable character traits in these coconuts. However, the related conjoint analysis of metabolic targets and molecular synthesis mechanisms has not been carried out in aromatic coconut until now. UPLC-MS/MS combined with RNA-Seq were performed in aromatic coconut (AC) and non-aromatic coconut (NAC) meat at 7, 9 and 11 months. The results showed that D-fructose in AC coconut meat was 3.48, 2.56 and 3.45 fold higher than that in NAC coconut meat. Similarly, D-glucose in AC coconut meat was 2.48, 2.25 and 3.91 fold higher than that in NAC coconut meat. The NAC coconut meat showed a 1.22-fold rise in the content of lauric acid compared to the AC coconut meat when it reached 11 months of age. Myristic acid content in NAC coconut meat was 1.47, 1.44 and 1.13 fold higher than that in AC coconut meat. The palmitic acid content in NAC coconut meat was 1.62 and 1.34 fold higher than that in AC coconut meat. The genes SPS, GAE, GALE, GLCAK, UGE, UGDH, FBP, GMLS, PFK, GPI, RHM, ACC, FabF, FatA, FabG, and FabI exhibited a negative correlation with D-fructose (r = –0.81) and D-glucose (r = –0.99) contents, while showing a positive correlation (r = 0.85–0.96) with lauric acid and myristic acid. Furthermore, GALE, GLCAK, FBP, GMLS, and ACC displayed a positive correlation (r = 0.83–0.94) with palmitic acid content. The sugar/organic acid ratio exhibited a positive correlation with SPS, GAE, UGE, FabF, FabZ and FabI.

Влияние пребиотических добавок на состав и свойства курдючного жира баранчиков калмыцкой породы

Purpose. Study of the influence of prebiotic feed additives on the physicochemical parameters of fat-tail fat of Kalmyk breed rams. Materials and Methods. When fattening animals using lactulose-containing additives in their diets, the generally accepted VIJ method was used, and the phyco-chemical properties and composition of fat-tail fat were carried out in certified laboratories according to the methods provided for by GOSTs. The resulting digital material was processed using the statistical package Microsoft Excel, and the reliability of the data was checked using the Student's criterium. Results. Feeding prebiotic additives “Laktuvet-1” and “LaktuSuper” to fattening rams affected the melting point of fat-tail fat of both 4- and 7-month-old animals. A decrease in the melting temperature of fat was recorded in experimental group I by 0.14 and 0.26°C (P≤0.05), in experimental group II – by 0.21 and 0.32°C (P≤0.01) compared with the control group. The iodine number of fat significantly increased in animals of the experimental groups of 4 months of age by 0.39 (P≤0.05) and 0.51 (P≤0.05), of 7 months of age – by 0.58 (P≤0.05). 01) and 0.76 (P≤0.01) compared to the control group. In the fat-tail fat of 4-month-old rams, compared with the control, the content of unsaturated fatty acids increased in experimental group I by 1.72% (P≤0.05), essential fatty acids in experimental group II – by 2.26% (P≤0.01), the total level of saturated fatty acids decreased in both experimental groups. At the age of 7-month rams in experimental groups I and II, among monounsaturated fatty acids, a significant difference compared to the control was obtained only in the content of oleic acid in fat-tail fat, which was 0.34 (P≤0.05) and 0.42% (P≤0.01). The amount of unsaturated fatty acids significantly exceeded this indicator in the control group by 0.53 (P≤0.01) and 0.83% (P≤0.01). The decrease in the amount of saturated fatty acids in the experimental groups was ensured by a significant decrease in the content of palmitic acid in fat-tail fat by 0.31 (P≤0.05) and 0.44% (P≤0.01) and stearic acid by 0.20 (P≤0.05) and 0.27% (P≤0.05) compared to control. Conclusion. The feed additives “Lactuvet-1” and “LactuSuper” had an effective effect on the composition and physicochemical properties of fat-tail fat of fattening rams. The active substances of prebiotic additives helped to reduce the melting point and improve the chemical and fatty acid composition of tail fat.

Effects of Different Aquafeed Sources on Growth Performance, Oxidative Capacity, and Fatty Acid Profile of Three Carps Reared in the Semi-Intensive Composite Culture System.

The current experiment is designed to evaluate the effect of different aquafeeds (farm-made versus commercial) on growth, body composition, oxidative capacity, and fatty acid profile in the semi-intensive composite culture system. For this, 1,100 fingerlings/acre having initial body weight and length, Labeo rohita (61.34 g, 171 mm), Catla catla (71.45 g, 181 mm), and Cyprinus carpio (30.80 g, 91 mm) were randomly distributed to 16 ponds and randomly fed on eight different diets (n = 2 pond/diet) in a completely randomized research design. Aquafeed were farm-based diets (D1-D2) and commercial aquafeed (D3-D8). The farm-made diets contained various crude protein levels of maize gluten (24.9%) and rice polish (7.3%), whereas commercial diets were procured from commercial feed plants (AMG, Supreme, Aqua, Star Floating, Hi-Pro, and Punjab feed). The growth performance of carps (L. rohita and C. catla) was significantly improved (p < 0.05) by feeding D3 as compared to other diets. Similarly, white blood cell concentration was greater (p < 0.05) in all species fed by D3 than in those fed on D7, D8, D5, D6, D1, and D2 fed groups, respectively. Alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and alanine phosphatase activities were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the D3-fed L. rohita, C. catla, and C. carpio compared with those fed on the rest of the treatments. The activities of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase were also higher (p < 0.05) for the D3 fed L. rohita, C. catla, and C. carpio than those fed on the rest diets. The groups fed on D3 and D4 had greater (p < 0.05) concentrations of myristic (14), palmitic acid (16), and stearic (18) acids than those fed on the rest of the commercial diets. However, meat chemical composition was similar (p > 0.05) across the treatments. These results also prove that the increase in the dietary protein level and lipid content can improve the fish's body's crude protein and fat levels. Feeding D3 improved the production performance, oxidative status, and fatty acid profile in composite major carps culture systems. Thus, based on growth, survival, and body composition, it is concluded that D3 and D4 may be recommended for a commercial culture of major carps. Dietary treatments had no significant impact (p > 0.05) on water's physical-chemical properties. Calcium content and alkalinity varied (p < 0.05), with D5 showing the lowest calcium and the highest alkalinity.

Effects of combined application of nitrogen and potassium on oil concentration and fatty acid component of oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.)

ContextNutrient inputs significantly affect the quality of rapeseed, yet comprehensive research on combined nutrient applications is lacking. ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of combined application of N and K on rapeseed traits, including N, K, oil, and protein concentrations, fatty acid component, seed yield and oil yield. MethodsA 2-year field experiment was conducted in the Yangtze River Basin involving the rapeseed cultivars H9 (low oil) and Z11 (high oil). Sixteen N and K fertilizer combinations encompassed four N rates (0, 90, 180, and 270 kg N ha−1) and four K fertilizer rates (0, 60, 120, and 180 kg K2O ha−1). ResultsThe results revealed that the combined application of N and K significantly affected rapeseed oil and protein concentrations by modulating the nutrient concentrations. Specifically, applying N reduced the oil concentration while applying K increased the oil concentration. Each 1.0% rise in seed K concentration corresponded to a 14.9% average increase in oil concentration, counterbalancing a 2.8% increase in N concentration. Additionally, the higher oil concentration of Z11was closely linked to its seed K concentration. In contrast, protein concentration increased with the N application and decreased with the K application. Furthermore, applying N reduced palmitic (C16:0) and stearic (C18:0) acid content and increased oleic (C18:1) acid content, which further increased with K. Combining the K application with the N treatment resulted in higher seed yield and oil yield compared to a single N application, which particularly benefited the high oil cultivar Z11. ConclusionUtilizing an N180K120 combination significantly improved rapeseed oil concentration, fatty acid composition, seed yield, and oil yield. ImplicationsThis study details the effects of applying K at various N fertilizer rates on enhancing rapeseed quality and yield, emphasizing the importance of the N and K ration in oilseed rape production.

Nutritional composition of quinoa leafy greens: An underutilized plant-based food with the potential of contributing to current dietary trends

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) leafy greens (QLGs) are plant-based foods of high nutritional value that have been scarcely studied. In this work, the nutritional and functional composition of three QLGs varieties was evaluated. A protein content higher than 35 g 100 g−1 dw with a well-balanced essential amino acid composition was found making them a good source of vegetable protein. In addition, elevated contents of dietary fibre and minerals, higher than those detected in quinoa seeds and other leafy vegetables, were found. The lipid profile showed higher contents of linoleic (C18:2, ω6) (20.2 %) and linolenic acids (C18:3, ω3) (52.8 %) with low ω6/ ω3 ratios (∼0.4/1). A total sugar content <1 g 100 g−1 dw was found for all varieties tested, lower than that obtained in seeds. The saponin content varied between 0.76 and 0.87 %. Also, high values of total phenolic compounds (969.8–1195.4 mg gallic acid 100 g−1), mainly hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids, and great antioxidant activities (7.64–8.90 g Trolox kg−1) were found. Multivariate analysis here used allowed us to classify the samples according to the quinoa variety evaluated, and the sequential stepwise multiple regression applied revealed that the PUFA and sucrose contents negatively influenced the protein content while the palmitic acid content affected positively this parameter. Overall, this study shows that QLGs are promising nutritious and functional plant-based foods supporting the necessity of promoting their cultivation, commercialization, and consumption.

Exploration of the mechanism of Qi-Xian decoction in asthmatic mice using metabolomics combined with network pharmacology.

Introduction: Qi-Xian Decoction (QXD), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula consisting of eight herbs, has been clinically used to treat asthma. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been completely elucidated. This study aimed to combine metabolomics and network pharmacology to reveal the mechanism of action of QXD in asthma treatment. Methods: An ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma mouse model was constructed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of QXD. Serum metabolomics and network pharmacology were combined to study the mechanism of anti-asthma action as well as the potential target, and related biological functions were validated. Results: The QXD treatment has demonstrated significant protective effects in OVA-induced asthmatic mice, as evidenced by its ability to inhibit inflammation, IgE, mucus overproduction, and airway hyperreactivity (AHR). Metabolomic analysis has revealed a total of 140 differential metabolites associated with QXD treatment. In addition, network pharmacology has identified 126 genes that are linked to the effects of QXD, including TNF, IL-6, IL1β, STAT3, MMP9, EGFR, JUN, CCL2, TLR4, MAPK3 and MAPK8. Through comprehensive gene-metabolite interaction network analysis, seven key metabolites have been identified and associated with the potential anti-asthmatic effect of QXD, with palmitic acid (PA) being the most notable among them. In vitro validation studies have confirmed the gene-metabolite interaction involving PA, IL-6, and MAPK8. Furthermore, our research has demonstrated that QXD treatment can effectively inhibit PA-promoted IL-6 expression in MH-S cells and reduce PA concentration in OVA-induced asthmatic mice. Conclusion: The regulation of metabolic pathways by QXD was found to be associated with its anti-asthmatic action, which provides insight into the mechanism of QXD in treating asthma.

Effect of lipotoxicity on mitochondrial function and epigenetic programming during bovine in vitro embryo production

Maternal metabolic disorders may cause lipotoxic effects on the developing oocyte. Understanding the timing at which this might disrupt embryo epigenetic programming and how this is linked with mitochondrial dysfunction is crucial for improving assisted reproductive treatments, but has not been investigated before. Therefore, we used a bovine in vitro model to investigate if pathophysiological palmitic acid (PA) concentrations during in vitro oocyte maturation and in vitro embryo culture alter embryo epigenetic patterns (DNA methylation (5mC) and histone acetylation/methylation (H3K9ac/H3K9me2)) compared to control (CONT) and solvent control (SCONT), at the zygote and morula stage. Secondly, we investigated if these epigenetic alterations are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and changes in ATP production rate, or altered expression of epigenetic regulatory genes. Compared to SCONT, H3K9ac and H3K9me2 levels were increased in PA-derived zygotes. Also, 5mC and H3K9me2 levels were increased in PA-exposed morulae compared to SCONT. This was associated with complete inhibition of glycolytic ATP production in oocytes, increased mitochondrial membrane potential and complete inhibition of glycolytic ATP production in 4-cell embryos and reduced SOD2 expression in PA-exposed zygotes and morulae. For the first time, epigenetic alterations in metabolically compromised zygotes and morulae have been observed in parallel with mitochondrial dysfunction in the same study.

Essential oil from Fructus Alpiniae zerumbet ameliorates vascular endothelial cell senescence in diabetes by regulating PPAR-γ signalling: A 4D label-free quantitative proteomics and network pharmacology study

Ethnopharmacological relevanceVascular endothelial cell senescence is associated with cardiovascular complications in diabetes. Essential oil from Fructus Alpiniae zerumbet (Pers.) B.L.Burtt & R.M.Sm. (EOFAZ) has potentially beneficial and promising diabetes-related vascular endothelial cell senescence-mitigating effects; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Aim of the studyTo investigate the molecular effects of EOFAZ on vascular endothelial cell senescence in diabetes. Materials and methodsA diabetes mouse model was developed using a high-fat and high-glucose diet (HFD) combined with intraperitoneal injection of low-dose streptozotocin (STZ, 30 mg/kg) and oral treatment with EOFAZ. 4D label-free quantitative proteomics, network pharmacology, and molecular docking techniques were employed to explore the molecular mechanisms via which EOFAZ alleviates diabetes-related vascular endothelial cell senescence. A human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) senescence model was developed using high palmitic acid and high glucose (PA/HG) concentrations in vitro. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, SA-β-galactosidase staining, cell cycle, reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell migration, and enzyme linked immunosorbent assays were performed to determine the protective role of EOFAZ against vascular endothelial cell senescence in diabetes. Moreover, the PPAR-γ agonist rosiglitazone, inhibitor GW9662, and siRNA were used to verify the underlying mechanism by which EOFAZ combats vascular endothelial cell senescence in diabetes. ResultsEOFAZ treatment ameliorated abnormal lipid metabolism, vascular histopathological damage, and vascular endothelial aging in diabetic mice. Proteomics and network pharmacology analysis revealed that the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and drug-disease targets were associated with the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) signalling pathway, a key player in vascular endothelial cell senescence. Molecular docking indicated that the small-molecule compounds in EOFAZ had a high affinity for the PPAR-γ protein. Western blotting and immunofluorescence analyses confirmed the significance of DEPs and the involvement of the PPAR-γ signalling pathway. In vitro, EOFAZ and rosiglitazone treatment reversed the effects of PA/HG on the number of senescent endothelial cells, expression of senescence-related proteins, the proportion of cells in the G0/G1 phase, ROS levels, cell migration rate, and expression of pro-inflammatory factors. The protective effects of EOFAZ against vascular endothelial cell senescence in diabetes were aborted following treatment with GW9662 or PPAR-γ siRNA. ConclusionsEOFAZ ameliorates vascular endothelial cell senescence in diabetes by activating PPAR-γ signalling. The results of the present study highlight the potential beneficial and promising therapeutic effects of EOFAZ and provide a basis for its clinical application in diabetes-related vascular endothelial cell senescence.

Stability Analysis in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) for Kernel Yield and its contributing traits

A field experiment was carried out with twenty six lines across seasons namely, summer 2020, kharif 2020 and rabi 2020-21 to study G × E interaction. The ANOVA of Eberhart and Russell model revealed significant differences among genotypes for all traits which indicates the presence of substantial variation in the per se performance of all the 26 peanut genotypes. Significant differences due to environments were observed for all traits except for shelling percentage and palmitic acid content indicating that the environments in which the genotypes evaluated were quite variable. The environments + (genotypes × environments) interaction was also observed to be significant for all traits studied except for 100 seed weight and palmitic acid content indicating considerable interactions of genotypes with environments (seasons). Significant genotype × environment interactions were recorded for all traits except for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and 100 seed weight which inferred that differential performance of peanut genotypes under diverse environments. Plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, number of mature pods per plant, pod yield per plant, kernel yield per plant, sound mature kernel per cent and 100 seed weight were recorded higher positive values of environmental index in kharif season indicating that kharif season was congenial for most of the yield contributing traits than summer and rabi seasons. Genotypes viz., ICGV 171334, ICGV 98432 and ICGV 99105 were observed to be stable across the seasons for high pod and kernel yield in conjunction with confectionary traits like 100 seed weight, protein content and oleic linoleic acid ratio.

Quality assessment of commercial Bulgarian brined cheese, purchased in the commercial network

Abstract. Three types of Bulgarian brined cow cheese, produced according to the Bulgarian State Standard 15:2010 (BDS), and five types, according to individual cheese makers' firm technological production instruction (TPI), have been studied. Salt content, dry matter, titratable acidity, and fat content have been determined. Using the gas chromatographic method, we have identified the fatty acid composition according to ISO 12966-1. A descriptive sensory profiling test have been conducted for each sample to determine the studied parameters such as appearance, taste, smell, and consistency. Some of the TPI samples have been characterized by a high concentration of salt (% in the total mass), a low percentage of dry matter, and high water content. Only one of the examined samples, according to TPI, met the criteria for acidity according to BDS. The gas chromatographic analysis showed an increased content of palmitic acid in one of the TPI samples. For the examined samples of white brine cow cheese, labeled as produced according to the BDS standard, the obtained results were close to or fully compliant with the standard, with the exception of the titratable acidity in one of the samples. For the samples produced by TPI, the obtained results for these samples are not inferior to those produced by BDS.

Formulation and evaluation of solid lipid nanoparticles of naringin to enhance its bioavailability

The objective of the present work was to formulate solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with naringin for improving the bioavailability of naringin. The SLNs loaded with naringin were prepared by using different ratio of palmitic and stearic acid as the lipids and Tween 80 as the surfactant. The method nanoprecipitation was used for preparation of the SLNs. The surfactant (Tween 80) helps in steric stabilization of the SLNs. The size range of SLNs obtained on sonicating for 7 was found to be 429 ± 76 nm when stearic acid was used and 365 ± 28 nm when palmitic acid was used for the preparation of SLNs. The zeta potential of all the SLNs ranged from -16 to -27 mV suggesting a stable formulation. The percentage of drug incorporated during nanoparticle preparation was determined by centrifuging the drug loaded nanoparticles at 15,000 rpm for 15 min and separating the supernatant. The highest encapsulation of naringin (71.7 ± 8.6 %) was obtained when the concentration of palmitic acid was 0.14 mmol. The in vitro release of naringin from the SLNs was measured by dialysis method using simulated gastric fluid as the dissolution medium. In vitro release kinetics studies for naringin loaded SLNs exhibited a sustained release pattern. Sustained release was observed over a period of 3 days. The stability of NSLN-7 was studied by storing at 4 ± 1 °C for 30 days. The particle size remained stable at the end of the study with drug entrapment of 71.5 %. This suggests that the SLNs prepared are stable on storage.

Biochemical compounds and structure evaluation of cocoa liquors from different origins and their derivative chocolates

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) varieties have distinct characteristics that interfere with the quality of the chocolate produced. Cocoa liquors from Brazil and Peru were analyzed for bioactive compounds and physicochemical values, and dark chocolates were produced, evaluating their physical and physicochemical properties. Brazilian organic liquor showed higher phenolic content (4,403.63 mg GAE/100 g sample) and antioxidant activity (143.56 µg Trolox equivalent/g sample). Peruvian liquor cocoa butter has more palmitic acid (29.30%) and less stearic acid (32.92%), in the lower limit to oleic acid (32.92%) and the upper limit to linoleic acid (3.73%), and showed a higher content of saturated fatty acids (63.35%) and a lower content of monounsaturated acids (32.92%). Cocoa butter from organic liquor presented lower content of palmitic acid (24.01%), average stearic (34.71%) and oleic acids (35.81%), and higher content of linoleic acid (4.32%) and polyunsaturated acids (4.32%). Peruvian liquor showed higher melting point. Brazilian alkalized, organic liquors, and chocolates melting points showed no statistical difference (p &gt; 0.05). The caramelization and carbonization points of all liquors did not show statistical differences (p &gt; 0.05), as well as the caramelization point of all chocolates. The carbonization point was different (p &lt; 0.05) for all chocolates. The chocolates were stable in terms of structure during storage, demonstrating the suitability for industrial production.

Motility, oxidative status and morphology of frozen-thawed bovine semen are not impacted by fatty acid exposure invitro.

While sperm migrate within the reproductive tract of cows experiencing negative energy balance (NEB), they come into contact with elevated concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). For this reason, this study aimed to investigate the effects of three different NEFA - palmitic acid (PA), stearic acid (SA), and oleic acid (OA) - on bovine sperm motility, kinetic parameters, oxidative status, and morphology. Frozen thawed semen samples from Bos taurus bulls were incubated with varying concentrations of each fatty acid, and the sperm's characteristics were analysed at different time points. Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) was employed to assess sperm motility and kinetic parameters. Concurrently, the production of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and total antioxidant capacity were measured to determine the oxidative status. Additionally, sperm morphology was evaluated. In Experiment 1, different concentrations of PA did not show significant effects on total motility, progressive motility, or any kinetic parameters analysed. Similarly, PA did not have a significant impact on the oxidative status or sperm morphology. In Experiment 2, SA at various concentrations did not lead to significant changes in total motility, progressive motility, or any kinetic parameters evaluated. Furthermore, SA did not affect oxidative status or sperm morphology. In Experiment 3, the concentrations of OA used did not result in significant changes in total motility, progressive motility, or any kinetic parameters studied. Likewise, OA did not induce any alterations in oxidative status or sperm morphology. Overall, the results from all three experiments indicate that PA, SA and OA, at the invitro conditions and tested concentrations, do not exert detrimental effects on bovine sperm function and morphology. These results provide insights that contribute to our understanding of how fatty acids can impact the reduction of fertility rates in cows facing NEB. This, in turn, lays the foundation for additional critical investigations in this area. Further studies are necessary to validate these findings invivo.

Effects of polyethylene terephthalate microplastics on cell growth, intracellular products and oxidative stress of Scenedesmus sp.

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has been widely utilized in the synthesis of textile materials and packaging of foods and beverages. In recent years, it has been commonly detected in the form of microplastics (MPs) in wastewater. However, the effects of PET MPs on microalgal intracellular products and their interrelationships have been poorly investigated. In this study, the microalgae Scenedesmus sp. Strain H-1 was exposed to PET MPs to explore their effects on the growth, intracellular products (such as lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins), and antioxidative defense systems of Scenedesmus sp. The results demonstrated that PET MPs significantly reduced Scenedesmus sp. cell growth, with a maximum inhibition rate of 38.25% in the 500 mg L−1 treatment group. PET MPs had negative effects on glucose and nitrate utilization rates and reduced intracellular carbohydrates, intracellular proteins, and photosynthetic pigments. Surprisingly, PET MPs reduced acetyl-CoA carboxylase activity but induced lipid accumulation in microalgae. In addition, PET MPs significantly decreased the essential linoleic acid concentration and increased the palmitic acid content, resulting in reduced biodiesel quality. PET MPs induced the production of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde as well as the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase. The results of the PCA indicated that the response mechanism of Scenedesmus sp. to PET MPs exposure was synergistic. This study provides fundamental data on the impact of MPs on the intracellular products of microalgae.

Dormancy release of seeds of Podophyllum hexandrum Royle accompanied by changes in phytochemicals and inorganic elements.

Podophyllum hexandrum Royle is an alpine medicinal plant of considerable importance, and its seed dormancy severely inhibits population renewal. Although cold stratification can break dormancy to a certain extent, the migration and accumulation of phytochemicals and inorganic elements in the seeds during dormancy release and their functions remain unclear. Changes in phytochemicals and inorganic elements in different seed parts were analyzed during dormancy. The key differential phytochemicals and inorganic elements were screened and their association with dormancy release and their roles in dormancy release were explored. The results showed that dormancy release may have occurred following the decrease in palmitic acid and linoleic acid content in the seeds and the increase in 2,3-dihydro-3,5-dihydro-6-methyl-4 (h)-pyran-4-one content in the endosperm. Meanwhile, 6-propyltridecane and hexadecane in the seed coat may enhance the water permeability of seeds to speed up germination. Mg may migrate from the seed coat to the endosperm and seed embryos, whereas Co may migrate from the seed embryo to the seed coat. Ca, Mn, Mg, and Co are involved in various physiological metabolic processes, which may facilitate the dormancy release of P. hexandrum seeds. These findings have enhanced our understanding of the mechanisms of dormancy release in P. hexandrum seeds and can serve as a reference for the development of more effective dormancy-breaking techniques for the conservation of this endangered medicinal plant.

Isocaloric diets with varying protein levels affected energy metabolism in young adult Sprague-Dawley rats via modifying the gut microbes: A lipid imbalance was brought on by a diet with a particularly high protein content

Protein is the most important macro-nutrient when it comes to maximizing health, body composition, muscle growth, and recovery of body tissue. In recent years, it has been found that protein also plays an important role in metabolism and gut microbiota. This study was performed to investigate the effects of an isocaloric diet with different crude protein contents on the energy metabolism of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Results revealed that compared with the 20% crude protein (CP; control) diet, the 38% CP diet improved serum parameters that are associated with dyslipidemia and glucose metabolic disorders in SD rats, whereas the 50% CP diet increased liver injury indicators and fatty acid synthesis-related genes and protein expression in the liver. Compared with the control diet, the 14% CP diet increased the abundance of colonic short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria (Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group and Ruminiclostridium_9) and promoted colonic microbial cysteine and methionine metabolism, the 38% CP diet up-regulated colonic microbial lysine biosynthesis and degradation pathways, and the 50% CP diet down-regulated colonic mucosal cholesterol metabolism. Furthermore, the increase of multiple colonic enteropathogenic bacteria in the 50% CP group was associated with higher palmitic acid and stearic acid concentrations in the colonic microbes and lower cholesterol and arachidonic acid concentrations in the colonic mucosa. These findings revealed that the 14% CP and 38% CP diets improved rats' energy metabolism, while the 50% CP diet was accompanied by lipid metabolism imbalances and an increase in the abundance of multiple enteropathogenic bacteria.

Nano-Fertilization of Phosphorous and Potassium, Spraying Sepehr 4 Nano-Fertilizer and Carbon Nanotubes on some Qualitative Traits and Active Substances in the Grains of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

The study aimed to investigate the response of rice crop (Oryza satival L.), local variety Anbar 33, to nano-phosphorus and nano-potassium, spraying with carbon nanotubes and synthetic nano fertilizer Sepehr 4 (K+Fe+Zn+Mn). Some indicators of rice grains traits were used to evaluate the response. The field experiment was conducted in Al-Taliaah district 41-Al-Husseiniyah in the southern pater of Babylon Governorate - Iraq. The experiment was carried out according to the Randomized Complete Blocks Design (RCBD), and the treatments were randomly distributed according to a straightforward one-way experiment. Phosphorus nano fertilizer at two levels 0 and 10 kg ha-1 and potassium nano fertilizer at two levels 0 and 10 kg ha-1, and the treatments of nanomaterials of carbon nanotubes 50 mg L-1 and Sepehr 4 fertilizer (K+Fe)+Zn+Mn, 2.5 ml L-1 it was sprayed on the shoots of plants. The applications were conducted four times of nanomaterials with combinations of foliar sprays and ground additives to the soil, so that the number of treatments is sixteen, with three repetitions. The results of the gas chromatograph coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) presented that the treatment of N-K + (CNT) + Nano(K + Fe + Zn + Mn) potassium nano fertilizer, carbon nanotubes spraying and Sepehr 4 fertilizer K + Fe + Zn + Mn resulted in the highest percentage of the saturated fatty acid content of rice grains 2.16% and volatile oils 6.82%. The treatment of N-(P+K)+N-(K+Fe+Zn+Mn) phosphorus and potassium nano fertilizer and Sepehr 4 fertilizer resulted in the highest value in the content of palmitic acid, 26.41% in rice grains. The treatment of N-(P+K)+(CNT) +N-(IIII) phosphorus and potassium nano fertilizer and spraying carbon nanotubes fertilizer and Sepehr 4 fertilizer resulted in the highest content of rice grains of unsaturated oleic acid, 3.95%. N-K+ (CNT) Potassium nano fertilizer and carbon nanotube fertilizer spraying resulted in the highest value of rice grains’ unsaturated linoleic acid content, 6.94%.