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High-fat diet promotes type 2 diabetes mellitus by disrupting gut microbial rhythms and short-chain fatty acid synthesis.

Diabetes ranks among the top 10 causes of death globally, with over 90% of individuals diagnosed with diabetes having type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It is acknowledged that a high-fat diet (HFD) poses a serious risk for T2DM. The imbalance of intestinal flora, mediated by HFD, can potentially exacerbate the onset and progression of T2DM. However, the impact of HFD on pathological indicators and the intestinal microbiome in the development of T2DM has not been systematically investigated. Therefore, a HFD mouse model and a T2DM mouse model were established, respectively, in this study. The role of HFD as a driving factor in the development of T2DM was assessed using various measures, including basic pathological indicators of T2DM, lipid metabolism, liver oxidative stress, intestinal permeability, levels of inflammatory factors, gut microbiota, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). The findings indicated that HFD could influence the aforementioned measures to align with T2DM changes, but the contribution of HFD varied across different pathological metrics of T2DM. The impact of HFD on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, glutathione peroxidase, malondialdehyde, and tumor necrosis factor-α did not show a statistically significant difference from those observed in T2DM during its development. In addition, regarding gut microbes, HFD primarily influenced the alterations in bacteria capable of synthesizing SCFAs. The notable decrease in SCFA content in both serum and cecal matter further underscored the effect of HFD on SCFA-synthesising bacteria in mice. Hence, this research provided a systematic assessment of HFD's propelling role in T2DM's progression. It was inferred that gut microbes, particularly those capable of synthesizing SCFAs, could serve as potential targets for the future prevention and treatment of T2DM instigated by HFD.

Effect of germination on the physico-functional and nutritional profile of barnyard millet ()(VL-172)

: Barnyard millet is well-known for its abundant nutrients and adaptability, making it a promising candidate for product innovation, especially by exploring new processing methods like germination to boost its nutritional value and effectiveness. It is vital to examine both the physico-functional and nutrient characteristics of barnyard millet in order to fully harness their nutritional advantages in product development. Understanding factors such as grain size and properties like water and oil absorption capacity is crucial for creating inventive, nutritionally enriched foods that can meet a variety of dietary requirements and gain wider market acceptance.: This scientific approach fosters the effects of germination on the physico-functional and nutritional properties of Barnyard millet. : Barnyard millet was collected and soaked for 12 hours and germinated in different time intervals, then dehydrated at 110°C for 4 hours. Physical properties such as kernel size and volume were analysed. Functional properties, including oil and water absorption capacity, water solubility and nutritional analysis were conducted. The study revealed that as the germination time increased, the length-width ratio increased, accompanied by a slight increase in 1000 kernel weight, volume and decrease in bulk density of germinated millet. Furthermore, functional properties such as oil absorption capacity, water absorption capacity and water solubility index increased with germination time, contributing to improved texture. There was increase in protein and fiber, slight decrease in fat content. The mineral content was increased upon germination. The obtained results indicated slight variations in the physical and functional and nutritional characteristics of barnyard millet and its flour upon germination.

Beneficiation of High Sulfur Tertiary Coal of Assam with Burkholderia sp. GR 8-02. An Eco-Friendly Approach Toward Clean Coal Production

The high sulfur content in North-East Indian coal is one of the primary challenges with using it as an energy source. Therefore, the present study uses Burkholderia sp. GR 8-02 to explore coal beneficiation from the Tipong mine (T20 and T60) in Assam (North-East India). Various particle size fractions (−125 to +210 µm, −210 to +250 µm, −250 to +297 µm, −297 to +400 µm and −400 to +500 µm) were treated and subjected to petrographic and chemical analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Raman spectral analysis. The results revealed a 39.04% and 32.43% reduction in total sulfur for T20 and T60 samples, respectively. The ash content decreased by 19.79% in the T20 coal sample and by 24.52% in the T60 coal samples, with a relative decrease in the mineral matter content of approximately 17.43%. Following beneficiation with Burkholderia sp. GR 8-02, the −125 to +250 µm coal fraction exhibited maximum ash removal. The T20 sample useful heating value increased from 8116 to 8203 kcal/kg and the T60 sample from 8060 to 8210 kcal/kg. X-ray diffraction and FTIR patterns showed mineral phases like quartz, kaolinite, and pyrite. The FTIR spectra indicated altered C-S, SO2, and C=O bonds. The thermal profile showed a 12.54% mass loss difference between untreated and treated coal samples, suggesting lower thermal stability post-treatment without affecting the useful heating value (UHV). The treated coal’s surface leaching and morphological structure changes were investigated using Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) images. Raman analysis revealed increased carbon crystallinity and molecular structure in treated coal. This study offers an environmentally friendly and efficient approach to clean coal production.

Characterising the Nutritional and Alkaloid Profiles of Tarwi (Lupinus mutabilis Sweet) Pods and Seeds at Different Stages of Ripening

Tarwi (Lupinus mutabilis Sweet) is a key crop for Andean indigenous communities, offering proteins and fats. Both the pods and seeds of tarwi are consumed, either in their tender (immature) state or as dried, fully ripe seeds. Tarwi, like other Lupinus species, contains high alkaloid levels in its fruits and seeds that must be removed before consumption. This study evaluated the fat, protein, fibre, and alkaloid contents of four cultivars at five maturity stages ranging from 180 to 212 days after sowing. Samples of the pods and the seeds were analysed to determine their colour and protein, crude fibre, fat, and alkaloid contents. The results showed that while the protein concentration in the pods decreased as the fruits matured, the protein content in the seeds increased, reaching approximately 41%. Moreover, the pods exhibited a significant decrease in alcohol content, with the values dropping below 1% at the senescent (dry) stage for all the cultivars. In contrast, the alkaloid levels in the seeds remained stable from 196 days after sowing in the Guaranguito, Andean, and Ecuadorian cultivars, with concentrations around 4%. The present study showed that as the pods matured, their overall protein content decreased, while their seed protein content increased to around 41%. The alkaloid levels in the pods dropped below 1% in the dry stage, while the seed alkaloid levels remained stable at around 4% in the Guaranguito, Andean, and Ecuadorian cultivars after 196 days. However, in the Peruvian cultivar, the alkaloid content remained constant starting from 188 days after sowing, with concentrations just over 3%. This result suggests that as the pods mature, their alkaloid content decreases, while the alkaloid levels in the seeds stabilise from around 188 to 196 days after seeding. Consequently, the alkaloid contents found in the seeds likely originate from other aerial parts of the plant and are not significantly increased by the pods.

Sublethal concentration of λ-cyhalothrin inhibits insulin-like peptides and leads to reproductive toxicity in Chrysoperla sinica.

Insulin-like peptides (ILPs) act as crucial reproductive neuropeptides in insects, regulating insect reproduction through the insulin signaling pathway (ISP). Our previous studies have found that the sublethal concentrations (LC1 and LC10) of lambda-cyhalothrin (λCy) could induce severe reproductive toxicity in the lacewing, Chrysoperla sinica (Tjeder), but the toxicological mechanism remains unclear. This study discovered that λCy could inhibit CsILP transcription, leading to a decrease in insulin content and downregulation of C. sinica insulin receptor (CsInR) and C. sinica forkhead box O (CsFOXO) expression in ISP. Interference with CsILP expression resulted in downregulation of C. sinica vitellogenin (CsVg) and decreasing fecundity, while exogenous injection of bovine insulin promoted upregulation of CsVg expression and facilitated reproduction in female adults of C. sinica. Meanwhile, interference with FOXO of ILP downstream transcription factor could lead to downregulation of CsVg, hindering ovarian development and resulting in a decrease in egg production. However, exogenous injection of bovine insulin could remedy the effects caused by FOXO interference. In addition, ILP mediates juvenile hormone and 20-hydroxyecdysone biosynthesis by acting on their synthetic regulatory enzymes and influences the signal transduction of the 2 reproductive endocrine hormones, thereby regulating the reproductive endocrine environment in C. sinica. In conclusion, λCy inhibits CsILP expression, leading to disorder of ISP, leading to the reduced fecundity of C. sinica.

Cold Exposure Therapy Sensitizes Nanodrug-Mediated Radioimmunotherapy of Breast Cancer.

Cold exposure (CE) therapy can quickly induce tumor starvation by brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis. Exploring the combined antitumor mechanism of CE and traditional therapies (such as radiotherapy (RT)) is exciting and promising. In this study, we investigated the effect of CE in combination with nitric oxide (NO) gas therapy on sensitizing tumors to RT and promoting tumor radio-immunotherapy. We first constructed a liposome (SL) loaded with the NO prodrug S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP). When SL is injected, the glutathione (GSH) within the tumor region promotes the release of NO from SNAP. Subsequently, the superoxide anion produced by RT reacts with NO to generate peroxynitrite (ONOO-), which has strong oxidative properties and induces cell death. Meanwhile, the mice were exposed to a CE environment of 4 °C. CE-mediated BAT thermogenesis induced tumor starvation, which led to a decrease in ATP and GSH content within the tumor as well as an improvement in the hypoxic microenvironment and a decrease in myeloid-derived suppressor cells. All of the above have promoted the effectiveness of RT and activated the systemic antitumor immunity. In the bilateral tumor experiment, treatment of the primary tumor inhibited the growth of the distant tumor and promoted the infiltration of CD8+ T cells into the tumor. These findings reveal that the synergy of CE, NO gas therapy, and RT could confer high effective anticancer effects, providing possibilities in personalized cancer treatment.

Polyurethanes Synthesized with Blends of Polyester and Polycarbonate Polyols—New Evidence Supporting the Dynamic Non-Covalent Exchange Mechanism of Intrinsic Self-Healing at 20 °C

Polyurethanes (PUs) synthesized with blends of polycarbonate and polyester polyols (CD+PEs) showed intrinsic self-healing at 20 °C. The decrease in the polycarbonate soft segments content increased the self-healing time and reduced the kinetics of self-healing of the PUs. The percentage of C-O species decreased and the ones of C-N and C=O species increased by increasing the polyester soft segments in the PUs, due to higher micro-phase separation. All PUs synthetized with CD+PE blends exhibited free carbonate species and interactions between the polycarbonate and polyester soft segments to a somewhat similar extent in all PUs. By increasing the polyester soft segments content, the storage moduli of the PUs decreased and the tan delta values increased, which resulted in favored polycarbonate soft segments interactions, and this was related to slower kinetics of self-healing at 20 °C. Although the PU made with a mixture of 20 wt.% CD and 80 wt.% PE showed cold crystallization and important crystallinity of the soft segments, as well as high storage moduli, the intercalation of a small amount of polycarbonate soft segments disturbed the interactions between the polyester soft segments, so it exhibited self-healing at 20 °C. The self-healing of the PUs was attributed to the physical interactions between polycarbonate soft segments themselves and with polyester soft segments, and, to a minor extent, to the mobility of the polymeric chains. Finally, the PUs made with 40 wt.% or more polyester polyol showed acceptable mechanical properties.

Mechanism study on the improvement of egg white emulsifying characteristic by ultrasound synergized citral: Physicochemical properties, molecular flexibility, protein structure

As a natural emulsifier, egg white protein (EWP) has great interfacial characteristics and high security, and has broad development prospects. This study explored the impact of ultrasound synergized citral (CI) treatment on the microstructure, molecular flexibility and emulsifying property of EWP, and predicted the interaction between CI and ovalbumin (the main protein in EWP) through molecular docking. The decrease in free amino content and the growth in molecular weight of EWP suggested that CI and proteins were successfully grafted. The results of physicochemical properties revealed that UCEWP (ultrasound synergized citral-treated EWP) had smaller particle size and larger ζ-potential absolute value, which meant that the stability of UCEWP system was enhanced. From the perspective of interfacial characteristics, UCEWP had lower interfacial tension, which remarkably improved its emulsifying property. The emulsifying activity index (EAI) and emulsifying stability index (ESI) of UCEWP were 1.99 times and 3.19 times higher than that of natural EWP (NEWP). Analysis of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and fluorescence spectroscopy illustrated that the secondary and tertiary structures of UCEWP were more disordered and stretched than those of EWPs. Protein microstructure demonstrated that UCEWP presented loose small particle distribution, and correlation analysis reflected that the improvement of molecular flexibility was positively correlated with the enhancement of emulsifying property. These results elucidated that ultrasound synergized CI treatment is an effective mean to improve the molecular flexibility and emulsifying property of EWP, which provides a valuable reference for further application of EWP.

Vitamin U alleviates AFB1-induced hepatotoxicity in pregnant and lactating mice by regulating the Nrf2/Hmox1 pathway

This study investigated the protective effect of Vitamin U on liver injury induced by aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in maternal mice. 25 pregnant ICR mice were randomly divided into five groups: the AFB1 group (AF, 0.3 mg AFB1/kg b.w.), the Vitamin U group (U, 50 mg Vitamin U/kg b.w.), the AFB1 + Vitamin U group (AU, 50 mg Vitamin U /kg b.w. + 0.3 mg AFB1/kg b.w.), the control group (DMSO), and the MOCK group (distilled water). They were administered substances by gavage every day for 28 days. Results indicated that exposure to AFB1 increased the liver index and caused histological disruptions. Elevated serum levels of ALT and ALP were observed, along with a significant increase in liver MDA content and a decrease in GSH-Px and T-SOD levels. Moreover, the Keap1 and Hmox1 gene was downregulated with statistical significance, while the IL1β and TNFα gene were significantly upregulated. Vitamin U was demonstrated by the organized structure of liver cells in tissue slices, effectively reducing liver cell necrosis. This intervention was associated with a significant decrease in serum ALT and ALP activities, as well as a significant decrease in liver MDA content. Additionally, there were significant increases in liver T-SOD and GSH-Px levels, along with upregulation of mRNA and protein expression of Nfr2, Hmox1 and Keap1, and downregulation of mRNA expression of the IL1β gene. In summary, Vitamin U mitigated oxidative stress-induced liver injury by modulating the Nrf2/Hmox1 signaling pathway and inflammatory factors affected by AFB1.

Metformin modulates the TXNIP-NLRP3-GSDMD pathway to improve diabetic bladder dysfunction

To validate the therapeutic efficacy of metformin on diabetic bladder dysfunction (DBD) and further elucidate whether the TXNIP-NLRP3-GSDMD axis serves as a target for metformin in ameliorating DBD. C57BL/6J mice were induced with diet-induced obesity by being fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks. After establishing the model, the mice were treated with metformin for 4 weeks, and their glucose metabolism-related parameters were assessed. Urine spot assays and urodynamic measurements were conducted to reflect the bladder function and urinary behavior in mice, while histological examination was performed to observe morphological changes. Western blot analysis was employed to measure the expression levels of pyroptotic factors such as TXNIP, NLRP3, GSDMD, and tight junction proteins. Metformin treatment significantly improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in mice. Moreover, it showed promise in decreasing urinary spot occurrence, reducing urination frequency, alleviating non-voiding contractions, and stabilizing peak urinary pressure. Following metformin therapy, mice displayed restored epithelial fold structure, increased thickness of the muscular layer, substantial decrease in muscle fiber content, notably reduced levels of TXNIP and GSDMD proteins in the metformin-treated group compared to the DBD group, and restored expression of tight junction proteins Zo-1, Claudin-1, and Occludin. Metformin ameliorates urothelial cells damage in DBD mice by inhibiting TXNIP generation and reducing NLRP3 and GSDMD production.

Rapid preparation of anti-retrogradation starch by choline chloride based deep eutectic solvents: A comparative study

Legumes are a widespread and cheap source of starch. However, legume starches are prone to retrogradation in applications. Therefore, enhancing the resistance to retrogradation is important to ensure the quality of starch products. In this study, the effects of amines, alcohols, and carboxylic acids deep eutectic solvents (DESs) on the retrogradation properties of pea starch (PS) were investigated. The results showed that the starches treated with carboxylic acid DESs for only 30 min exhibited low paste viscosity, high paste clarity and anti-retrogradation. The carboxylic acid DESs treatment resulted in holes or cracks appearing on the starch surface, a decrease in molecular ordering, relative crystallinity, and amylose content. The thermal enthalpy of starch as well as the pasting viscosity were substantially reduced after the treatment. The paste clarity and the resistance to retrogradation were significantly improved. Conversely, the structure, pasting and retrogradation properties of starch treated with amine and alcohol DESs exhibited only slight differences compared to PS. The carboxylic acid DESs took a short time for the starch modification, and the modified starch paste with low viscosity, high clarity, and resistance to retrogradation. The study could provide an environmentally-friendly and cost-effective method for the preparation of starch with well anti-retrogradation properties.

Unraveling the risks of nAl2O3 on harmful algal blooms: Insights from paralytic shellfish toxins production of Alexandrium tamarense

As one of the commonly used and cost-effective nanomaterials, nanosized aluminum oxide (nAl2O3) posses unique properties and chemical stability. However, its extensive use and resultant dissemination into aquatic ecosystems prompt concerns over the proliferation and repercussions of harmful algal blooms, particularly those caused by dinoflagellates producing toxins. This study investigated the sub-chronic effects of nAl2O3 on growth, physiological activities, and paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs) production in Alexandrium tamarense. Results showed dose-dependent inhibition in growth (EC50 = 20.6 mg L−1), esterase activity, and photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) during the sub-chronic exposure (13-day). The internalization of nAl2O3 in microalgal cells and the significant decrease in the total cellular PSTs content were observed under high nAl2O3 concentrations (>40 mg L−1). The study also demonstrated a clear decrease in the content of some derivatives of PSTs (GTX5, C1/2, and GTX2/3) with the increase in nAl2O3 concentrations, accompanied by the induction of an unknown derivative. Excessive ROS production, dissolved Al, and physical inhibition were suggested as potential mechanisms for nAl2O3 toxicity and changes in PSTs toxin profile. Overall, this research enhances our understanding of the potentiated risks and threats on the possible concurrent events of toxic dinoflagellate, such as Alexandrium species and nanoparticles in aquatic environments.

Effect of Heat Treatment on Microstructure and Properties of Powder Metallurgy High-Speed Steel Prepared by Hot Isostatic Pressing

The microstructure and properties of powder metallurgy high-speed steel prepared by hot isostatic pressing with different heat treatments have been studied. The microstructure, phase composition, effect of quenching and tempering parameters, fracture morphology, and mechanical properties of the sample are discussed in detail. The H-HSS sample presents the characteristics of the powder prior to the particle boundary and consists of carbide and ferrite, in which the carbides are fine and evenly dispersed without segregation. The bending strength and hardness of the H-HSS sample are 3112 MPa and 56.3 HRC, respectively. The Q-HSS sample is mainly composed of martensite, residual austenite, and carbides. With the increase in quenching temperature, the grain size of the matrix gradually grows, and the small carbide particles dissolve into the matrix, causing an increase in carbide size and a decrease in quantity. The bending strength and hardness of the Q-HSS sample quenched at 1210 °C achieve the maximum values of 3114 MPa and 68.8 HRC, respectively. After tempering, the martensite is transformed from a quenched lath shape to a needle shape, the residual austenite content decreases, and secondary carbides precipitate from the matrix, resulting in a secondary hardening. The T-HSS sample that is quenched at 1120 °C followed by tempering at 550 °C for 20 min has the best bending strength of 4355 MPa. However, the T-HSS sample that is quenched at 1240 °C followed by tempering at 550 °C for 120 min has a maximum hardness value of 69.5 HRC. The fracture mode of Q-HSS sample is brittle fracture, and the fracture mechanism is cleavage fracture. After tempering, the fracture mechanism of the T-HSS sample presents a transitional fracture mode between the cleavage fracture and micropore aggregation fracture.

Microplastics impair extracellular enzymatic activities and organic matter cycling in oligotrophic sandy marine sediments

Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous and constantly accumulating in the marine environment, especially sediments. Yet, it is not well clarified if and how their carbon backbone could interact with surrounding sediments, eventually impairing key benthic processes. We assessed the effects of a ‘pulse’ contamination event of MPs on sedimentary organic matter (OM) quantity, quality and extracellular enzymatic activities (EEAs), which are well established descriptors of benthic ecosystem functioning. Marine sediments were exposed for 30 days to environmentally relevant concentrations (∼0.2 % in weight) of naturally weathered particles (size range 70–210 μm) of polyurethane, polyethylene, and a mixture of the most common polymers that are documented to accumulate in marine sediments. Despite the low concentration, contaminated sediments showed significantly different composition of OM, showing a decrease in lipid content and increase in protein. Moreover, we document a significant decrease (over 25 %) in quantity of biopolymeric C already after 15 days of exposure, compared to controls. Contaminated sediments showed lower C degradation rates (up to −40 %) and altered EEAs, with alkaline phosphatase being ∼50 % enhanced and aminopeptidase being reduced over 35 % compared to control treatments. Overall, the effects generated by the mixture of polymers were smaller than those exerted by the same amount of a single polymer. Our results provide insights on how that MPs can significantly alter marine sedimentary biogeochemistry through altered benthic processes, that could cumulatively impair whole benthic trophic webs by enhancing the accumulation and possible longer-term storage of recalcitrant organic C in the seabed.

Alteration in certain growth, biochemical, and anatomical indices of grapevine (Vitis vinifera) in response to the foliar application of auxin under water deficit.

Drought-induced stress represents one of the most economically detrimental natural phenomena impacting grapevine (Vitis vinifera ) development, yield, and fruit characteristics. Also, auxin is one of the most important plant growth regulators that can reduce damage caused by stress in plants. In this study, the impact of exogenously sprayed auxin (0, 50, and 200mgL-1 ) on growth, biochemical, and anatomical parameters was investigated in two grapevine varieties (cvs. 'Rashe' and 'Fakhri') under water deficit. According to our findings, water deficit led to a notable decrease in growth, protein content, and anatomical parameters; but significantly enhanced electrolyte leakage. Grapevines exposed to water deficit exhibited substantial increases in total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. Applying 50mgL-1 napthalene acetic acid (NAA) reduced the effects of water deficit in both grapevine cultivars by decreasing electrolyte leakage (15% in 'Rashe' and 20% in 'Fakhri'), and accumulating protein content (22% 'Rashe' and 32% 'Fakhri'), total phenolic compounds (33%'Rashe' and 40% 'Fakhri'), and antioxidant capacity (11% 'Rashe' and 39% 'Fakhri'); anantomical parameters were also improved. However, application of 200mgL-1 NAA had adverse effects on growth and biochemical traits of grapevines, with a more pronounced impact on root growth and anatomical parameters compared to other NAA concentrations. In conclusion, the application of 50mgL-1 NAA enhanced grapevine growth, enabling them to better thrive under water deficit.

Elucidating synergistic effects and environmental value enhancement in infrared-Assisted Co-Pyrolysis of coal and polyvinyl chloride

Co-pyrolysis of high-alkali coal and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) through infrared heating is a promising approach for managing escalating PVC waste and converting low-grade coal resources efficiently. The synergistic effects during co-pyrolysis and thermal degradation of PVC were studied through thermogravimetric analysis (TG-FTIR) and spectral analysis. Furthermore, chlorine migration and chemical transformation integral to the process, along with catalytic interactions, were explored through chlorine mass balance assessment, employing X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and ion chromatography to establish a groundbreaking understanding of these phenomena. The results of products exhibited a trend of initially increasing and then decreasing with increasing temperatures and mixing ratios. The maximum oil yield was 14.62 %, achieving at 600 °C and 20 %. Meanwhile, the content of aromatic hydrocarbons remained high level through the synergistic interaction of Lewis and Brønsted acid sites, nearly exceeding 60 %. The results showed that the Artificial Neural Network model had a high prediction accuracy with an R2 value of 0.99, while the decarboxylation effect dissociated the metal, resulting in an increase in the fixation of inorganic chlorine from 1 % to 66 % and a decrease in the chlorine content in the liquid phase. Innovatively, the study employs an ANN model for predicting the behavior of co-pyrolysis, exemplifying high accuracy in understanding complex thermal conversions of PVC and coal. Notably, the work challenges existing constraints by applying sophisticated analytical methods to elucidate the thermodynamics and kinetics of the co-pyrolysis processes, thereby enhancing the energetic and environmental value of the products.

Antidiabetic Effect of Bifidobacterium animalis TISTR 2591 in a Rat Model of Type 2 Diabetes.

This study investigated the beneficial effects of probiotic Bifidobacterium animalis TISTR 2591 on the regulation of blood glucose and its possible mechanisms in a rat model of type 2 diabetes. The type 2 diabetic-Sprague Dawley rats were established by the combination of a high-fat diet and a low dose of streptozotocin. After 4weeks of treatment with 2 × 108CFU/ml of B. animalis TISTR 2591, fasting blood glucose (FBG), oral glucose tolerance, serum insulin, and pancreatic and hepatic histopathology were determined. Liver lipid accumulation, glycogen content, and gluconeogenic protein expression were evaluated. Oxidative stress and inflammatory status were determined. B. animalis TISTR 2591 significantly reduced FBG levels and improved glucose tolerance and serum insulin in the diabetic rats. Structural damage of the pancreas and liver was ameliorated in the B. animalis TISTR 2591-treated diabetic rats. In addition, significant decreases in hepatic fat accumulation, glycogen content, and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase-1 protein expression were found in the diabetic rats treated with B. animalis TISTR 2591. The diabetic rats showed a significant reduction of inflammation following B. animalis TISTR 2591 supplementation, as demonstrated by decreasing hepatic NF-κB protein expression and serum and liver TNF-α levels. The B. animalis TISTR 2591 significantly decreased MDA levels and increased antioxidant SOD and GPx activities in the diabetic rats. In conclusion, B. animalis TISTR 2591 was shown to be effective in controlling glucose homeostasis and improving glucose tolerance in the diabetic rats. These beneficial activities were attributed to reducing oxidative and inflammatory status and modulating hepatic glucose metabolism.

Hydrogen peroxide participates in leaf senescence by inhibiting CHLI1 activity.

Hydrogen peroxide promoted leaf senescence by sulfenylating the magnesium chelating protease I subunit (CHLI1) in the chlorophyll synthesis pathway, and inhibited its activity to reduce chlorophyll synthesis. Leaf senescence is the final and crucial stage of plant growth and development, during which chlorophyll experiences varying degrees of destruction. It is well-known that the higher ROS accumulation is a key factor for leaf senescence, but whether and how ROS regulates chlorophyll synthesis in the process are unknown. Here, we report that H2O2 inhibits chlorophyll synthesis during leaf senescence via the I subunit of magnesium-chelatase (CHLI1). During leaf senescence, the decrease of chlorophyll content is accompanied by the increase of H2O2 accumulation, as well as the inhibition of catalase (CAT) genes expression. The mutant cat2-1, with increased H2O2 shows an accelerated senescence phenotype and decreased CHLI1 activity compared with the wild type. H2O2 inhibits CHLI1 activity by sulfenylating CHLI1 during leaf senescence. Consistent with this, the chli1 knockout mutant displays the same premature leaf senescence symptom as cat2-1, while overexpression of CHLI1 in cat2-1 can partially restore its early senescence phenotype. Taken together, these results illustrate that CAT2-mediated H2O2 accumulation during leaf senescence represses chlorophyll synthesis through sulfenylating CHLI1, and thus inhibits its activity, providing a new insight into the pivotal role of chlorophyll synthesis as a participant in orchestrating the leaf senescence.

Impact of dehulling, germination and fermentation on the bioactive and functional properties of grey pea flour.

Grey pea is a largely overlooked legume in the Nordic countries, and its potential uses in various food products remain unexplored. It is a nutrient-rich crop with low environmental impact, making it an attractive option for sustainable and nutritious plant-based alternatives. To investigate the impact of dehulling, germination, and fermentation on the bioactive (polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity) and functional characteristics (water absorption index, water solubility index, water and oil binding capacity, emulsifying properties and gelation concentration) of grey pea flour. Additionally, protein content and pasting properties (temperature, peak viscosity, trough viscosity, breakdown, final viscosity, and setback) were measured. Dehulling was performed using a runner disk sheller. Germination was carried out for 24 and 48 h at ambient temperature, and fermentation was conducted for 8 h at 43°C using a starter culture. The results indicate that dehulling did not significantly affect functional properties and gelling capacity (p = 0.297 for oil absorption capacity, p = 0.5 for emulsion activity, and p = 0.607 for emulsion stability), but it resulted in a notable decrease in total polyphenol content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity (TAC). Conversely, 48 h of germination increased TAC measured by two methods: FRAP (19%) and DPPH (30%). This process increased through viscosity by 1.2-fold, while it did not significantly affect the water absorption index (WAI), water solubility index (WSI), or the emulsifying properties of grey pea flour. Fermentation significantly improved TPC (p < 0.001 for whole grey peas and p = 0.004 for dehulled grey peas), with a TPC increase of up to 67% in fermented dehulled pea flour. TAC measured by both methods, showed significant increases, ranging from 35 to 104%. However, fermentation reduced emulsifying and pasting properties, as indicated by the peak, through and final viscosity, which may be desirable only for certain food products. Further, germination and fermentation showed significant increases in protein content, by 4 and 8%, respectively. Fermented grey pea flour exhibited enhanced bioactive characteristics, while 48-h germination positively impacted pasting properties. Overall, these processes led to changes in both the bioactive and functional properties of grey pea flour, creating opportunities for the use of these flours in a wide array of food products.

Increasing nutritional value using alternative protein from sago worm in gluten-free biscuit products

Abstract This research aimed to study the nutritional value of sago worm (Rhynchophorus Ferrugineus) powder, evaluate quantity of protein supplementation derived from sago worm in gluten-free biscuit and determine the nutritional value of the gluten-free biscuit products supplemented with protein from sago worm. It was found that the nutritional value in sago worm powder consisting of carbohydrates (11.14%), protein (24.65%), fat (54.18 %), and ash (2.41%) based on total weight. Dietary fibre content was 6.61% and the total energy was 699.99 kilocalories/100 g. As regards physical and chemical properties, increase in inclusion of sago worm powder led to a decrease in moisture content and an increase in quantity of protein. Increasing the sago worm powder resulting to the colour of the biscuits became darker. The results showed that an increase in sago worm hardness and fracturability to decreased. Sensory evaluation using a 9-point hedonic scale showed that the gluten-free biscuit with 5% sago worm powder of the total weight had the highest score. In addition, the developed products contained moisture content, carbohydrate, fat, protein, dietary fibre and ash of 58.86, 32.56, 6.34, 6.61 and 1.02%. The energy value was found to 567.42 Kcal/100 g.