Linoleic Acid Content Research Articles

Chemical Composition and Lipid Bioactive Components of Centaurea thracica Dwelling in Bulgaria.

Centaurea thracica (Janka) Hayek is a plant common in southern Bulgaria. The inflorescences were collected during June and September 2021, while their seeds were obtained in September 2021. The chemical and lipid composition of the inflorescences during the vegetation process of the plant were established. A significant decrease in total proteins (from 8.7 to 7.4%), glyceride oils (2.0-1.7%), and ash (4.5-4.2%) content was observed, while the amount of carbohydrates (72.3-77.2%) and fibers (28.7-35.8%) increased. During the vegetation of the plant, the content of oleic and linoleic acids increased up to 2-3 times, while the level of palmitic acid decreased. The lipids from the seeds were rich in oleic (53.0%) and palmitic (36.2%) acids. The tocopherol content in the oils of the inflorescences during vegetation increased from 58 to 110 mg/kg, and the content in the oil from the seeds was 260 mg/kg. The phospholipid content decreased during vegetation, and differences were observed in the composition between the inflorescences and the seeds. The high content of oleic acid, linoleic acid, tocopherols, and phospholipids determine the nutritional and biological value of the oils isolated from Centaurea thracica, and contribute to their potential use in various directions.

Calpain 1 gene expression in liver tissue and the association of novel calpain 1 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with meat quality in Bali cattle

Abstract. Calpain 1 (CAPN1) is an enzyme that influences meat tenderization, and it is involved in post mortem proteolysis. The bovine CAPN1 gene was chosen as a candidate gene for DNA sequencing to identify novel single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in exons 8–10 and assess their associations with meat quality in Bali cattle. In an analysis of 95 Bali cattle, two novel SNPs (g.5327C>T and g.5959C>T) were identified in exons and four novel SNPs (g.5534C>T, g.5807A>C, g.5857G>A, and g.5869T>C) were discovered in introns. Allelic frequency was evaluated, and Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was found for all SNPs in Bali cattle. The marbling score and intramuscular fat content as determined by ultrasound were associated with g.5869T>C and g.5959C>T. g.5327C>T was associated with pH and meat color in Bali cattle, whereas two other SNPs (g.5869T>C and g.5959C>T) were associated with Warner–Bratzler shear force and meat color. Furthermore, g.5869T>C was associated with linolenic acid content, and g.5959C>T with caprylic and linolenic acid levels. However, intronic SNPs (g.5534C>T, g.5807A>C, and g.5857G>A) did not significantly affect meat quality in Bali cattle. Quantitative real-time PCR of liver tissue revealed that the mRNA expression of CAPN1 significantly differed (P<0.05) among the CT, CC, and TT genotypes. The results suggest that genetic variability in loci within CAPN1 might be associated with meat quality in Bali cattle.

Mitigation and mechanism of low dose linoleic acid on depression caused by disorder of gut microbiome

ABSTRACT Objectives Depression is a widely prevalent mental disorder, and nutritional interventions play an increasingly important role in its treatment. In this paper, effects of linoleic acid (LA) on depressive behavior in mice induced by gut microbiome disorders were investigated. Methods Fifty C57BL/6J male mice were randomly separated into five groups, control group (CK), ceftriaxone sodium group (CRO), low-dose linoleic acid group (LLA, 1 g/kg), medium-dose linoleic acid group (MLA, 2 g/kg), and high-dose linoleic acid group (HLA, 5 g/kg). In the LLA, MLA, and HLA groups, mice were treated with ceftriaxone sodium (CRO) to induce depressive behaviors, followed by LA administration. Behavioral tests were used to evaluate depressive behavior. High-throughput sequencing and Hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) staining in gut microenvironment were carried out. ELISA kits were used to measure brain inflammatory factors, and 5-hydroxy-tryptamine (5-HT). Gas chromatography and western blot were used to determine fatty acids compositions and the enzymes expression involved in lipid metabolism in brain respectively. Results The results showed that 10 weeks CRO treatment contribute to depressive behavior, gut microbiome disturbance, and serotonin system disturbance. LLA and MLA improved the depressive-like behavior, and significantly increased the levels of 5-HT1A, 5-HTT and 5-HT in the hippocampus. LLA was found to improve the diversity of gut microbiome and alleviate colon tissue damage. Meantime, LLA increased the content of linoleic acid, improved the expression of FADS2 and COX-2, increased IL-10 levels, and decreased IL-6 levels in the brain. Discussion LA alleviated depressive behavior in mice by improving the gut microenvironment, regulate fatty acid metabolism, and modulate inflammation.

A new active packaging system based on chickpea-based edible coatings added with microcapsules of Cosmos sulphureus Cav. flower extract.

The Cosmos sulphureus Cav. plant is studied for its high polyphenolic content with antioxidant properties. Its flowers, rich in phenolic acids, flavonoids, and tannins, hold promise as antioxidants in food preservation. The inclusion of these compounds in chickpea-based coatings with a previously studied preservative effect would be an excellent option as a food preservation method and microencapsulation addresses challenges like dispersion and degradation of polyphenols in the coating. The objective of this research was to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant activity of Cosmos sulphureus leaves, seed, and flower extracts and explore the protective effects of chickpea-based coatings containing microcapsules of flower polyphenolic extract on the chemical quality of stored roasted sunflower seeds during storage. The ethanolic leaf extract exhibited the highest antiradical activity, followed by the aqueous flower extract. After a storage period of 15 days, at 40 °C, the chickpea-based coatings effectively delayed lipid oxidation in the roasted sunflowers seeds, and the inclusion of polyphenolic microcapsules with 0.01% extract (SMC 0.01%) in the coating significantly improved the protective effect. By day 15 of storage, SMC 0.01% showed comparable peroxide value, conjugated dienes, and linoleic acid content to samples containing the synthetic antioxidant BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene). Samples that only contained chickpea-based coating and coating with polyphenolic microcapsules with 0.005% extract exhibited significantly greater reduction in fatty acid content compared to the 0.01% SMC treatment. The chickpea-based coating with polyphenolic microcapsules demonstrated antioxidant activity akin to synthetic BHT, offering a promising biopackaging solution for lipid-rich foods like roasted sunflower seeds. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Amlou inspired spread: Formulation and characterization of new spread based on Ziziphus lotus L. fruit, argan oil, and honey

This study explores novel applications of combining natural products by integrating Ziziphus lotus L. (Z. lotus), honey, and argan oil to create a product similar to traditional Moroccan Amlou (a mixture of almonds, honey, and argan oil). Five formulations were developed with varying percentages of these three ingredients, alongside two formulations of traditional Amlou. The nutritional value, mineral composition, fatty acid profile, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activities of the products were analyzed using standard analytical methods such as gas chromatography and spectrophotometry. Additionally, sensory evaluations were conducted to assess consumer preferences. The results showed that the new formulations are rich in oil (45.15–52.24 g/100 g), carbohydrates (40.26–46.81 g/100 g), and protein (3.15–3.92 g/100 g). Mineral analysis revealed significant amounts of potassium (443–578 mg/100 g), calcium (98–124 mg/100 g), phosphorus (50–65 mg/100 g), and magnesium (38–50 mg/100 g). The Z. lotus-based products exhibited higher phenolic content (7–12 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (7.10–10.18 mg QE/g), and stronger antioxidant activities using DPPH radical scavenging activity (3.55–11.14 mg AAE/g) and FRAP (5.39–8.55 mg AAE/g). Moreover, the new product retains the beneficial fatty acid profile of argan oil, with a high content of oleic acid (48 %) and linoleic acid (32 %). Sensory evaluation indicated that the formulation consisting of 45 % Z. lotus powder, 50 % argan oil, and 5 % honey was the most appreciated for taste and texture. These findings suggest that incorporating Z. lotus into traditional Amlou recipes not only enhances nutritional and antioxidant properties but also meets consumer acceptance in terms of flavor and texture.

Efeito da adubação orgânica na produção de ácidos graxos e atividade antidiabética de Portulaca oleracea L.

Portulaca oleracea L., commonly known as purslane, is a plant consumed in Europe, Asia and Africa, with nutraceutical compounds and essential fatty acids whose content exceeds that of vegetables such as spinach and lettuce. On the other hand, organic fertilization improves the physical-chemical characteristics of the soil and thus promotes growth, physiology and secondary metabolism, improving the chemical composition of the plant. In order to evaluate the effect of organic fertilization on fatty acid content and anti-diabetic activity (α-Glucosidase), greenhouse-grown plants were subjected to three treatments: control without additional fertilizers, with compost and vermicompost. The results indicated that vermicompost significantly increased oleic and linoleic acid content. However, palmitic acid content decreased, although other saturated fatty acids such as lauric, myristic and stearic acids did not show variations in the different treatments. Of the polyunsaturated essential fatty acids, linolenic acid (omega-3) increased in the control treatment. On the other hand, the enzyme α-Glucosidase did not show differences in the different fertilization treatments. However, its high percentage of inhibition (60 %) positions it as a species with high antidiabetic potential.

NUTRITIONAL ANALYSIS AND CHEMICAL FINGERPRINTING OF BLACK SOLDIER FLY (Hermetia illucens) LARVAE MEAL NATIVE TO THE PERUVIAN AMAZON

The search for new protein sources for food formulation is increasing. Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae have high levels of protein, good fat content and are rich in essential amino acids, making them an alternative source of dietary protein. In this work, the nutritional properties and metabolomic characterization of black soldier fly larvae meal native to the Peruvian Amazon reared on three organic waste substrates were carried out. The three meals had a high protein content (38.90-44.68%), lipids (26.96-31.01%), as well as a high potassium, calcium and low sodium content. The larvae meal fed with orange bagasse presented the best content of iron and manganese. The fatty acid profile showed a high content of palmitic, oleic and linoleic acids for the three flours. The most abundant essential amino acids in the three meals were leucine, lysine and valine. A total of 48 compounds were identified in the larvae meal fed with orange bagasse, 24 compounds in the larvae meal fed with oats and 44 compounds in the larvae meal fed with ripe banana pulp. These results indicate that black soldier fly larvae meals native to the Peruvian Amazon are a good source of proteins, minerals, essential amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids with high nutritional value.

Fatty Acids in Dry Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.): A Contribution to Their Analysis and the Characterization of a Diversity Panel.

Dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a crop of high nutritional interest widespread throughout the world. This research had two objectives. On the one hand, the development and validation of an analytical method to quantify fatty acids in dry beans based on the extraction and derivatization in a single step and later quantification by gas chromatography. On the other, its application to characterize the fatty acid content in a diversity panel consisting of 172 lines. The method was successfully validated in terms of accuracy, precision and robustness. Among the 14 fatty acids that constitute the fatty acid profile of dry bean, the most quantitatively important were linolenic acid, the major fatty acid in all cases, with an average value of 6.7 mg/g, followed by linoleic acid (3.9 mg/g), palmitic acid (2.9 mg/g) and oleic acid (1.5 mg/g). The concentrations of fatty acids in dry bean were influenced by the gene pool, with the Mesoamerican gene pool showing a higher content of palmitic, stearic, linoleic and linolenic acids and the Andean gene pool a higher level of cis-vaccenic acid. Also, the expression of fatty acid content showed high heritability. The information generated constitutes a robust database of interest in food technology, nutrition and breeding programs.

Camelina sativa Seeds and Oil as Ingredients in Model Muffins in Order to Enhance Their Health-Promoting Value.

The aim of this study was to see whether it is possible to add camelina oil and seeds as ingredients in muffins in order to enhance their health-promoting value, such as their bioactive compound content, while maintaining the organoleptic attributes considered desirable by consumers. Camelina oil is characterised by a high linolenic acid content. Four types of muffins were prepared for analysis: MBnO-control muffins (containing 11.85% rapeseed oil), MCsO-muffins containing camelina oil instead of rapeseed oil, MCsS-muffins containing 6.65% camelina seeds in relation to the mass of prepared dough, and MCsOS-muffins containing both camelina oil and camelina seeds. The change in the fatty acid profile in muffins with the addition of camelina oil was significant; however, it was found that, as a result of thermal treatment, lower amounts of saturated fatty acids were formed. Among all the investigated experimental variants, muffins were characterised by the highest contents of all the phenolic acids analysed. The substitution of rapeseed oil with camelina oil had no negative effect on most of the organoleptic attributes of the muffins. Moreover, thanks to a greater content of carotenoids, camelina oil had an advantageous effect on the improvement of product colour, thus improving its overall desirability.

The Nutritional Potential of Avocado By-Products: A Focus on Fatty Acid Content and Drying Processes.

The aim of this study was to analyze the content of fatty acids and tocopherols in various components (pulp, seeds, peel) of avocado (Persea americana), which are often neglected as by-products. In addition, the effects of different drying processes on these components were investigated and the health benefits of the main fatty acids contained in avocados were highlighted. The samples were subjected to three drying processes: hot air (HAD), vacuum (VD), and hot-air microwave (HAMD). In all parts of fresh avocado, oleic acid was the most abundant (41.28-57.93%), followed by palmitic acid (19.90-29.45%) and linoleic acid (8.44-14.95%). Drying led to a significant reduction in the oleic acid content, with palmitic acid showing the greatest stability. HAD resulted in higher levels of oleic acid and linoleic acid in dried pulp and peel samples compared with VD and HAMD, while HAMD had the highest content of α-linolenic acid in all parts. In addition, HAMD had the shortest drying time. HAMD duration was 35 min, which was 76.7% shorter than HAD (150 min) and 82.5% shorter than VD (200 min). Considering fatty acid retention and drying efficiency, HAMD appears to have been the most effective method, especially for the avocado peel. Remarkably, the avocado peel consistently contained higher total tocopherol, with δ-tocopherol generally being the most abundant form. The high content of tocopherols, oleic acid, and linoleic acid in the avocado peel suggests promising health benefits.

Optimizing fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) oil yield and compositions in intercropping through growth-promoting bacteria and mycorrhiza

IntroductionBiofertilizers and intercropping are two main components in sustainable production systems.Materials and methodsA two-year (2020–2021) study was conducted in East Azarbaijan, Iran, to evaluate the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), growth-promoting bacteria (GPB) and chemical fertilizer (CF) on fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) (F) oil yield and compositions in intercropping with Moldavian balm (Dracocephalam mobdavica L.) (MB). The cropping patterns included MB sole cropping, fenugreek sole cropping (F) and replacement intercropping ratios consisted of Moldavian balm : fenugreek (MB:F (1:1)), MB:F (2:2) and MB:F (4:2) and additive intercropping of MB:F (100:50).ResultsFor both years, among the intercropping patters, the highest seed and oil yields were obtained in MB:F (100:50) intercropping pattern treated with CF and AMF+GPB. In all cropping patterns except MB:F (4:2), the highest anthocyanin, total flavonoid, and mucilage contents were observed in plants received AMF+GPB. At all treatments, the linoleic, oleic, and linolenic acid were the main components of fenugreek oil. In MB:F (1:1), (2:2), (4:2), and (100:50) intercropping patterns, the linoleic acid content in AMF+GPB treatment, increased by 9.45%, 6.63%, 15.20%, and 7.82%, respectively, compared with sole fenugreek. The highest total land equivalent ratio (LERT) values were obtained in 2021 and MB:F (100:50) intercropping pattern treated with CF (1.70) and AMF+GPB (1.63).ConclusionsIn general, it could be concluded that MB:F (100:50) intercropping pattern treated with AMF+GPB improved the oil yield and unsaturated fatty acid contents of fenugreek compared with sole cropping and could be recommended in sustainable production systems.

Quantitative trait loci governing seed protein, oil, and linolenic acid concentration in soybean

AbstractSoybean is one of the most economically important crops in the United States. Produced for its oil and protein concentration, it is readily utilized in food products for both human and livestock consumption. Since soybean was first cultivated in the United States, increased yield has been the driving factor in breeding efforts. Though yield and oil have been observed to be positively correlated, protein concentration is negatively correlated with both. An increased effort has been underway recently to produce high‐yielding cultivars that have both elevated oil and protein concentration. This has been accomplished utilizing molecular markers associated with quantitative trait loci (QTL) for both traits. To assist in this effort, more information on QTL associated with quality traits is required. In this study, 180 F4:6 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) segregating for protein, oil, and fatty acids were produced from a cross between TN12‐4098 and TN13‐4303. These lines were grown across three locations in Tennessee: Research and Education Center at Milan (RECM), Highland Rim Research and Education Center (HRREC), and East Tennessee Research and Education Center (ETREC) in 2018 and 2019. Sixteen QTL were found for protein, oil, linolenic acid, and meal protein concentration. Of these identified QTL, six were novel. Developing molecular markers associated with these QTL will assist in breeding efforts to produce high‐quality elite soybean cultivars that meet the demands of both farmers and consumers.

Utilization of low-grade walnut kernels for oil extraction using eco-friendly methods: a comparative analysis of oil composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity

Walnut oil was extracted using three different eco-friendly extraction methods, solvent extraction (using ethyl acetate [EA] and ethanol [ET]), aqueous enzymatic extraction (AEE), and ultrasound-assisted enzymatic extraction (UAEE), and their lipid yield, lipid composition, physicochemical analysis, mineral composition, total phenols, antioxidant capacity, and antimicrobial activity were analyzed and compared. The AEE technique offered a greater yield (50.6%) than the other extraction methods and gave comparatively higher linoleic acid (66.12%) content. Palmitic, oleic, linoleic, linolenic, and stearic acids were the principal components that GC/MS detected in all the oil samples. UAEE produced the most polyphenols (0.49 mgGAE/g), followed by AEE (0.46 mgGAE/g), EA (0.45 mgGAE/g), and ET (0.35 mgGAE/g). The DPPH assay results were in the order of UAEE (191 μmolTE/kg) > AEE (186 μmolTE/kg) > EA (153 μmolTE/kg) > ET (130 μmolTE/kg). The FRAP assay findings showed a similar pattern: UAEE (112 molTE/kg) > AEE (102 molTE/kg) > EA (96 molTE/kg) > ET (82 molTE/kg). Results suggested that for a higher extraction yield, AEE is the better technique and UAEE is the recommended method for enhancing walnut oil antioxidant capacity. Additionally, it was found that polyphenols considerably increased the antioxidant capacity of walnut oil and are thought to be health-promoting. The results demonstrated the antibacterial effectiveness of the extracted oil against Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, and Staphylococcus aureus. This study provides information about low-cost and ecofriendly technologies of walnut oil extraction for food, cosmetic, and medical uses.

Calcium lactate treatment modulated fatty acid metabolism to attenuate senescence in ‘Jinfeng’ pear fruit during storage

Fatty acid metabolism not only affects cell membrane functionality but also correlates with the fruit quality and postharvest senescence. This study aims to assess the influence of calcium lactate immersion on lipid metabolism and senescence in ‘Jinfeng’ pear fruit during room temperature storage. The results demonstrated that calcium lactate effectively suppressed malondialdehyde content, respiratory rate, mass loss, and ethylene release, as well as phospholipase D (PLD), hydroperoxide lyase (HPL), lipoxygenase (LOX), lipase (LPS), alcohol acyltransferase (AAT), and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activities in ‘Jinfeng’ pears. Additionally, calcium lactate resulted in an up-regulation of the gene expression levels associated with fatty acid biosynthesis, including PcACC, PcFabG, PcFabI, PcFabZ, PcKASII, PcACP, and PcFAD. Furthermore, there was an increase in the expression of genes involved in fatty acid elongation, such as PcKCS4, PcKCS6, PcKCS7, PcKCS10, PcLACS2, PcLACS4, PcLACS8, and PcCER. Conversely, it caused a down-regulation of the gene expression levels associated with fatty acid degradation, including PcLOX, PcAAT, PcADH, PcPLD, PcACD, PcECH, and PcACOX3. Simultaneously, calcium lactate treatment diminished the content of palmitic acid, while elevating the contents of linolenic acid, linoleic acid, and oleic acid. In summary, postharvest calcium lactate-immersed can efficaciously retard senescence of ‘Jinfeng’ pear fruit through regulating fatty acid lipid metabolism.

The Proximate Composition, Mineral and Pectin Content and Fatty Acid Profile of the Pomace Fraction of 16 Rowanberry Cultivars

The berry pomace could be a potential source for food applications due to its high content of polyphenols, but also dietary fiber, PUFAs and pectin. This is the first study that aims to compare the total dietary fiber (TDF), protein, fat, mineral, pectin and fatty acid content of the following 16 different pomace samples of Sorbus aucuparia L. cultivars (cvs): ‘Likernaja’, ‘Burka’, ‘Alaja Krupnaja’, ‘Granatnaja’, ‘Rubinovaja’, ‘Bussinka’, ‘Vefed’, ‘Angri’, ‘Krasnaja’, ‘Solnechnaja’, ‘Sahharnaja’, ‘Oranzevaja’, ‘Kubovaja’, ‘Moravica’, ‘Rosina’ and ‘Rossica’, in order to find new natural materials for valorization. The contents of pectin and dietary fibers were analyzed using the respective Megazyme enzymatic kits. The TDF content was the highest in the pomace samples of hybrid cvs ‘Granatnaja’ (63.04% dry mass DM), ‘Burka’ (64.52% DM), ‘Rubinovaja’ (65.66% DM) and ‘Likernaja’ (67.17% DM). The pomace of hybrid cv ‘Rubinovaja’ was distinguished from other samples by its high protein content, cv ‘Alaja Krupnaja’ by its high pectin content and cv ‘Oranzevaja’ by its high fat content, which were 7.58% DM, 8.39% DM and 7.47% DM, respectively. The pomace of cv ‘Sahharnaja’ possessed the highest average macro-element content (1.56 g/kg DM). The average fatty acids profile was characterized by a high content of linoleic acid (51.94%), oleic acid (20.55%) and palmitic acid (12.96%). The lowest n6/n3 ratio was found in the hybrid cv ‘Alaja Krupnaja’ (6.70%). The data obtained demonstrate that the pomaces of certain cultivars of rowanberry contain significant amounts of valuable components, which can be used in functional food and cosmetic applications.

Associations of the Seed Fatty Acid Composition of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Germplasm with Agronomic Traits and FAD2 Variations

Sesame is an important oilseed crop grown for human consumption in many countries, with a high commercial value due to its high oleic/linoleic acid ratio (O/L ratio). However, its properties may vary among different accessions. In the current study, 282 sesame accessions were evaluated to determine the effects of agronomic traits and genotypes on the O/L ratio. The O/L ratio was positively correlated with the oleic acid (C18:1), stearic acid (C18:0), and myristic acid (C14:0) concentrations, as well as the capsule zone length (CZL), capsule width (CW), and capsule length (CL), and negatively correlated with the linoleic acid (C18:2) and linolenic acid (C18:3) concentrations, the days to maturity (DTM), days to flowering (DTF), and the height of the first capsule-bearing node (HFC) (p < 0.05). In addition, the O/L ratio was affected by the FAD2 haplotype, as the Hap2 and Hap3 sesame accessions had lower O/L ratios. Therefore, we suggest that the increase and decrease in the contents of C18:1 and C18:2 are associated with the FAD2 haplotype. A total of 25 agronomic traits and fatty acid compositions were compared via statistical analysis, and accessions with a high O/L ratio were selected. The results of this study can be used as a basis for further research on the development of new sesame varieties through enhancing nutritional functionality.

Analysis of physicochemical properties of nut-based milk and sweetened condensed milk alternatives

This study analyzed the physicochemical properties of nut-based milk and sweetened condensed milk (SCM) alternatives. Four types of nuts (almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, and walnuts) were roasted at 140 °C for 15 min, followed by the preparation and analysis of milk and SCM alternatives. During the production of SCM by heating with adding sugar, the pH, moisture, and L* decreased, while the carbohydrates, viscosity, and browning index increased significantly (p < 0.05). Oleic acid, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid contents were comparable among all samples (p > 0.05). Volatile compounds were analyzed using HS-SPME-GC–MS to determine changes due to roasting and heating, and a total of 54 volatile compounds were identified. These findings to show the importance of the physicochemical characteristics of milk and SCM alternatives, provide practical information for the development of improved-quality dairy alternatives.

Wound Healing Efficacy of Cucurbitaceae Seed Oils in Rats: Comprehensive Phytochemical, Pharmacological, and Histological Studies Tackling AGE/RAGE and Nrf2/Ho-1 Cue.

The Cucurbitaceae family includes several edible species that are consumed globally as fruits and vegetables. These species produce high volumes of seeds that are often discarded as waste. In this study, we investigate the chemical composition and biological activity of three seed oils from Cucurbitaceae plants, namely, cantaloupe, honeydew, and zucchini, in comparison to the widely used pumpkin seed oil for their ability to enhance and accelerate wound healing in rats. Our results showed that honeydew seed oil (HSO) was effective in accelerating wound closure and enhancing tissue repair, as indicated by macroscopic, histological, and biochemical analyses, as compared with pumpkin seed oil (PSO). This effect was mediated by down-regulation of the advanced glycation end products (AGE) and its receptor (RAGE) cue, activating the cytoprotective enzymes nuclear factor erythroid 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), suppressing the inflammatory mediators tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), and reducing the levels of the skin integral signaling protein connexin (CX)-43. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining for epidermal growth factor (EGF) showed the lowest expression in the skin after treatment with HSO, indicating a well-organized and complete healing process. Other seed oils from cantaloupe and zucchini exhibited favorable activity when compared with untreated rats; however, their efficacy was comparatively lower than that of PSO and HSO. Gas chromatographic analysis of the derivatized oils warranted the superior activity of HSO to its high nutraceutical content of linoleic acid, which represented 65.9% of the fatty acid content. This study's findings validate the use of honeydew seeds as a wound-healing fixed oil and encourage further investigation into the potential of Cucurbitaceae seeds as sources of medicinally valuable plant oils.

Effect of environmental factors on conjugative transfer of antibiotic resistance genes in aquatic settings.

Antimicrobial-resistance genes (ARGs) are spread among bacteria by horizontal gene transfer, however, the effect of environmental factors on the dynamics of the ARG in water environments has not been very well understood. In this systematic review, we employed the regression tree algorithm to identify the environmental factors that facilitate/inhibit the transfer of ARGs via conjugation in planktonic/biofilm-formed bacterial cells based on the results of past relevant research. Escherichia coli strains were the most studied genus for conjugation experiments as donor/recipient in the intra-genera category. Conversely, Pseudomonas spp., Acinetobacter spp., and Salmonella spp. were studied primarily as recipients across inter-genera bacteria. The conjugation efficiency (ce) was found to be highly dependent on the incubation period. Some antibiotics, such as nitrofurantoin (at≥0.2µg ml-1) and kanamycin (at≥9.5mg l-1) as well as metallic compounds like mercury (II) chloride (HgCl2, ≥3µmol l-1), and vanadium (III) chloride (VCl3, ≥50µmol l-1) had enhancing effect on conjugation. The highest ce value (-0.90 log10) was achieved at 15°C-19°C, with linoleic acid concentrations<8mg l-1, a recognized conjugation inhibitor. Identifying critical environmental factors affecting ARG dissemination in aquatic environments will accelerate strategies to control their proliferation and combat antibiotic resistance.

Average dose rate is the primary determinant of lipid peroxidation in liposome membranes exposed to pulsed electron FLASH beam

BackgroundLipid peroxidation, a self-propagating chain reaction that oxydates lipid molecules, contributes to harmful effects of ionizing radiation. A decrease in peroxidation at higher dose rates could play a role in the FLASH sparing effect. PurposeWe explored how lipid peroxidation induced by FLASH (>100 Gy/s) and conventional (CONV, <0.2 Gy/s) radiation depends on lipid concentration and content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Additionally, we investigated the correlation between the lipid peroxidation and the main beam parameters characterizing pulsed electron beams, namely the dose per pulse (DRp) and the average dose rate (DRav). MethodsWe employed phosphatidylcholine (PC) liposomes as a model of biological membranes. Suspensions of liposomes containing different proportions of linoleic acid (LA) were prepared at various concentrations and irradiated at FLASH and CONV dose rates. Additionally, the liposomes were exposed to beams characterized by diverse combinations of DRp and DRav. The extent of lipid peroxidation was assessed by monitoring oxygen consumption (ΔpO2) and measuring the yield of malondialdehyde (MDA), and in certain instances, of lipid peroxides (LOOH). ResultsRegardless of the radiation dose, liposome concentration or LA content, ΔpO2 and the yield of MDA were significantly lower for FLASH than for CONV irradiation. Increase in the proportion of readily oxidizable LA in the lipid had negative effect on the MDA yield but correlated positively with ΔpO2 and LOOH yield. Exposing liposomes to beams operating at different pulse repetition frequencies, while keeping the total dose and DRp constant, resulted in markedly different ΔpO2 and MDA yields. In contrast, DRav was found to exhibit stable correlation with both MDA yield and ΔpO2. ConclusionsIrradiation at FLASH dose rates produces lower yield of lipid peroxidation in PUFA-containing artificial PC membranes than CONV irradiation under all tested conditions. Time-averaged dose rate, in contrast to pulse dose rate, was the critical parameter determining the level of lipid peroxidation induced by pulsed electron beams.