Higher Levels Of Superoxide Dismutase Research Articles

Superoxide Dismutase Modified the Association of Serum Malondialdehyde Levels with Cognitive Decline Among Older Adults: Findings from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey.

Numerous studies have investigated the correlation between malondialdehyde (MDA) and cognitive decline. However, limited research has explored the interplay between superoxide dismutase (SOD), C-reactive protein (CRP), and MDA. This study aims to scrutinize the association between MDA and cognitive function in older adults, while also elucidating the roles of SOD and CRP within this relationship. Utilizing data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) spanning 2008-2009, 2011-2012, and 2014, this study included 2,696 eligible subjects. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Chinese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Linear mixed-effects models were employed to examine the links between MDA, SOD, CRP, and their interactions with cognitive function. Elevated serum levels of MDA and CRP, as well as decreased serum SOD levels, were related to decreased cognitive function (β= -0.220 and -0.346, 95% CI: -0.399, -0.041 and -0.526, -0.167 for MDA and CRP; β= 0.384, 95% CI: 0.204, 0.564 for SOD). Notably, a significant interaction between MDA and SOD was detected (p = 0.001). An increase per standard deviation in serum MDA levels was significantly associated with a 0.347-point lower MMSE score only in participants with normal cognitive function and high SOD levels (β= -0.347, 95% CI: -0.497, -0.197; p < 0.001). Elevated serum MDA levels in the normal population with high SOD levels suggested diminished cognitive performance. Combining MDA with SOD could be pivotal in identifying older adults at risk of cognitive decline in clinical settings.

Effect of Biologger Attachment on the Stress and Health State of the Spotted Sea Bass Lateolabrax maculatus

The biologger is a widely used tool in biotelemetry for investigating marine fish. However, studies reported that the attachment of biologgers has a negative effect on the target organisms. We assessed the health status of spotted sea bass with attached biologgers by analyzing changes in their serum biochemistry and biomarker gene expression at varying biologger/fish body weight ratios. Especially, the assessment of the health status using biomarker genes offers the rapid evaluation of the condition of an individual. The genes bax, hsp70-2, and Cx32.7, associated with apoptosis, stress, and immunity, were selected as biomarker genes to assess the fish stress levels and overall health. The experimental groups included a control group without the biologger (C) and biologger-equipped groups, each carrying a biologger whose weight was 2.0–3.0% (W2), 5.0–6.0% (W5), and 10.0–12.0% (W10) of the fish body weight. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 1, 7, 14, and 21 post-attachment. The expression of bax, hsp70-2, and Cx32.7 was analyzed in the liver and muscle on day 21. The W10 group showed significantly higher levels of superoxide dismutase on day 1 and of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and glutamic pyruvic transaminase on day 7 than the other groups. On day 21 post-attachment, regardless of the biologger/fish body weight ratio, the liver and muscle tissues from groups W2, W5, and W10 showed significantly higher expression of bax, hsp70-2, and Cx32.7 than those from group C, respectively. However, there was no significant change in blood parameters depending on the weight of the attached biologger on day 21 post-attachment. These results indicate that the spotted sea bass gradually adapted to the attached biologgers of weights up to 10–12% of their body weight under our experimental conditions, providing clues to determine the timing of biologger release for biotelemetry studies.

Comparative impact of replacing fish meal with azolla on growth, water quality, and physiology of red tilapia fingerlings at varying salinities.

A 210-day experiment to assess the efficacy of substituting azolla plant powder at levels of 0, 20, 40, and 60% for fish meal on red tilapia fingerlings (RTF, initial weight of 18.23 ± 0.12 g) performance under salinity levels of 5, 18, and 28ppt. Among the various conditions, RTF-fed 20% azolla at 28 and 5ppt salinity showcased the highest specific growth rate (SGR), whereas the lowest SGR was observed in fish-fed 60% azolla at 5ppt salinity. Upon azolla incorporation, noteworthy elevations in phytoplankton, zooplankton, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, NH3, and NO3 were noted and conversely, azolla introduction led to decreased NH4 and NO2 concentrations in all salinity levels. Further, a significant (p < 0.05) interaction between azolla levels and water salinity (S×A) significantly impacted the hematological parameters of RTF. The highest levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and total protein (TP) were found in RTF-fed 20% azolla at 28ppt salinity, while the lowest CAT and TP levels occurred in RTF-fed 60% azolla at 5ppt salinity. The highest aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were recorded in the RTF group fed 60% azolla at 5ppt salinity, with the lowest values seen in the group given 20% azolla at 28ppt salinity. RTF fed a 20% azolla diet at 18ppt salinity exhibited the highest lysozyme value, in contrast to the lowest value observed in the RTF group fed the control diet at 18ppt salinity. In conclusion, this study recommends the utilization of azolla at inclusion levels ranging from 20 to 40%, as it has the potential to notably enhance the immune system and elevate the survival rate of RTF.

Oxidative Stress Markers Evaluation after Prolonged Administration of Aqueous Extract of Raphia Hookeri Fruit Pulp in Male Wistar Rats

The study investigated effect of prolonged administration of Raphia Hookeri fruit pulp on oxidative stress markers in male wistar rats. A total of 24 male wistar rats of weight ranging from 200g to 350g were used. The rats divided in 4 groups, 3 groups administered orally with doses of extract at 500mg/kg, 1000mg/kg and 2000mg/kg body weight while control group fed with feed and water for 28 days. The animals sacrificed, samples taken, laboratory test done for stress markers. Statistical analysis done at p&lt;0.05, values expressed as SEM. Results showed Malondialdehyde (MDA) values for group 2(0.77 ± 0.32nm/ml), group 3(1.79 ± 0.73nm/ml) and group 4(3.35 ± 0.20nm/ml) while for group 1(Control group) MDA value is 4.10 ± 0.3nm/ml. Mean values for Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) in treated groups (2-4) were 18.00 ± 1.0 units/ml, 29.50 ± 8.50units/ml, and 33.50 ± 37.25units/ml respectively and mean value for control group was 68.00 ± 4.0units/ml. Mean values for Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) in test groups (2-4) were 53.50 ± 10.50ng/ml, 63.50 ± 5.50ng/ml, and 82.50 ± 6.50ng/ml respectively. GPx value for control group was 94.00 ± 3.00ng/ml. There was a graded increase from low dose to high dose. All treated groups indicated marginally (P&gt;0.05) reduced values of Percentage change in body weight when compared to the control group (Group 1). Elevated levels of MDA indicates an increased oxidative stress and lipid. Higher levels of SOD and Gpx. This research demonstrates the ability of Raphia Hookeri fruit pulp to decrease oxidative stress hence regular consumption is recommended.

Effects of PCNL under the guidance of hologram technology on stress response and renal injury factors in patients with complex kidney stones

Background: To investigate the effect of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) guided by holographic image technology on stress response and renal injury factors in patients with complex renal calculi.&#x0D; Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 70 patients admitted to our hospital between August 2022 and June 2023 who had complex kidney stones. The patients were divided into two groups, namely, group A and group B, based on whether they received guidance from preoperative holographic imaging technology. Group A consisted of forty patients who underwent PCNL after undergoing renal CT examination prior to surgery, while Group B included thirty patients who underwent PCNL guided by holographic imaging technology. Various indexes, including operative factors, stress response, inflammatory response, renal injury factors, renal function, complication rate, and the rate of achieving complete stone clearance in a single procedure, were compared between the two groups.&#x0D; Results: In group B, the puncture time and operation time of the target calyces were shorter compared to group A, additionally, the intraoperative blood loss in group B was lower than that in group A (P&lt;0.05). 24 h after surgery, group B exhibited higher levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) compared to group A, additionally, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in group B was lower than that in group A (P&lt;0.05). 24 h after surgery, group B exhibited lower levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1, and hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) compared to group A (P&lt;0.05). Furthermore, group B showed lower levels of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipid carrier protein (NGAL), inducible protein-8-like molecule 2 (TIPE2), and β2-microglobulin (β2-MG) than group A at the 7-day mark (P&lt;0.05). 24 h after the operation, There was no statistically significant difference observed in the levels of SCr, BUN, between group A and group Bgroup B(P &gt; 0.05); however, exhibited lower levels of CysC compared to group A (P &lt; 0.05). Additionally, there were no significant differences in postoperative complications between group B and group A (P&gt;0.05). Furthermore, one month after surgery, the one-time stone clearance rate in group B was significantly higher than that in group A (P&lt;0.05).&#x0D; Conclusion: PCNL under the guidance of hologram technology can shorten the time of puncture target calyce and operation, reduce the amount of intraoperative blood loss, effectively reduce the postoperative stress reaction and inflammatory reaction of patients, reduce the level of renal injury factors, improve renal function, and increase the one-time stone clearance rate.

Empagliflozin alone and in combination with metformin ameliorate diabetes type 2-oxidative stress

Currently, one of the major public health concerns is diabetes mellitus, which is known as a silent killer due to the failure to diagnose it at an early stage. A growing body of research indicates that metformin and empagliflozin have antioxidant properties in addition to their hypoglycemic properties. Our research looked into the potential antioxidant effects of metformin and empagliflozin on diabetic rats by decreasing oxidative stress. For eight weeks, 42 adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into six groups: normal control, diabetic control group, diabetic group received dimethyl sulfoxide as a vehicle(solvent) of the empagliflozin, 250 mg/kg metformin only, 10 mg/kg empagliflozin only and a combination of both. A single injection of 40 mg/kg streptozocin administered intraperitoneally was after administering 10% fructose in drinking water for two weeks to cause type 2 diabetes in rats. The evaluation of oxidative stress involved the quantification of serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels upon completion of the experimental period. Additionally, blood glucose levels were determined using blood samples from the tail, and body weight was monitored on a weekly basis. Our findings showed that compared to the diabetic group, the therapy groups had considerably lower blood glucose, and serum MDA levels, while higher levels of SOD, and less decrease in body weight. Furthermore, even better results were obtained when empagliflozin and metformin were administered together. As a result of our findings, diabetic rats treated with empagliflozin and metformin had lower levels of oxidative stress.

The influence of perioperative nursing intervention in patients with ureteral calculi treated with URSL and its correlation to adverse event incidence: A retrospective study

To evaluate the effectiveness of perioperative nursing intervention in patients undergoing ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL) for ureteral stones and its implications for the incidence of adverse events, a total of 144 patients with ureteral stones admitted to our hospital from January 2021 to December 2022 were selected for retrospective analysis. They were divided into 2 groups based on their different nursing methods, with 72 patients in each group. The control group (CG) received routine nursing intervention, while the study group (SD) received refined perioperative nursing intervention. The surgical situation, effective stone removal rate, postoperative pain, inflammatory factors, stress response, and incidence of adverse events were compared between the 2 groups. In comparison with the CG, the SD demonstrated a significant reduction in gastrointestinal recovery time, urinary catheter removal time, and hospitalization duration, all presenting statistically significant disparities (P &lt; .05). Notably, the SD exhibited a one-time stone removal rate significantly superior to that of the CG (P &lt; .05). Similarly, the postoperative pain index was significantly lower in the SD (P &lt; .05). Pre- and post-surgical serotonin (5-HT) levels in the SD were markedly lower than in the CG (P &lt; .05). Postoperative levels of Interleukin-10 (IL-10), C-reactive protein (CRP), and white blood cells (WBC) were elevated in both groups, and gradually declined as the patients recovered. However, postoperative levels of IL-10, CRP, and WBC were significantly lower in the SD (P &lt; .05). The SD also showed significantly lower levels of malondialdehyde and higher levels of superoxide dismutase (P &lt; .05). Postoperative levels of cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and norepinephrine were elevated and progressively returned to normal over time, and were significantly lower in the study group (P &lt; .05). Furthermore, the SD experienced a significant reduction in adverse event incidence compared with the CG (P &lt; .05). Implementing refined perioperative nursing interventions for patients undergoing URSL can effectively decrease the incidence of adverse events, diminish the surgical stimulation of inflammation markers and oxidative stress indicators, and foster patient recovery.

Organic selenium and tocopherol supplementation for multiparous sows without adiabatic cooling: Effects on performance, milk composition, and serum antioxidant enzymes

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of organic selenium (Se) and tocopherol to peak producing and older sows without adiabatic cooling on physiological parameters, reproductive performance, milk composition, litter performance, and serum antioxidant enzymes. A total of 96 sows were allotted in a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement, with 4 experimental groups and 2 parity orders (3–4th and above 5th). The experimental groups consisted of: ACCon – sows with adiabatic cooling and fed with control diet; WACCon – sows without adiabatic cooling and fed with control diet; WACSe – sows without adiabatic cooling with dietary supplementation of 0.3 mg/kg organic Se; WACSeE – sows without adiabatic cooling with dietary supplementation of 0.3 mg/kg organic Se and 90 UI of tocopherol. During the experimental period, the average temperature and humidity were 27.8 °C and 78.4%, respectively. Sows that received adiabatic cooling had lower respiratory rate, rectal temperature, and neck temperature when compared to the others sows (P < 0.05). Sows supplemented with organic Se and tocopherol had shorter wean-to-estrus interval than those not supplemented (P < 0.05). Sows supplemented with organic Se and tocopherol had higher concentrations of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in relation to the other experimental groups and higher levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) than non-supplemented sows (P < 0.05). Piglets from sows supplemented with organic Se and tocopherol showed higher levels of GSH-Px and SOD in relation to the other experimental groups (P < 0.05). Under equatorial climate conditions, dietary supplementation of organic Se and tocopherol for multiparous sows reduces wean-to-estrus interval and increase expression of enzymatic antioxidant of sows and piglets.

Topical application of cocoa extract (Theobroma cacao L.) to prevent photoaging by increasing superoxide dismutase levels on wistar rats skin exposed to ultraviolet light A

Background: The latest trend in anti-aging prevention is projected through the use of antioxidants derived from natural ingredients with minimal side effects compared to chemicals. Cocoa bean (Theobroma cacao L.) is one of the sources of natural antioxidants with high flavonoid antioxidant content. This study aims to determine the effect of topical application of cocoa extract to prevent photoaging in wistar rats exposed to ultraviolet A (UVA) light. Methods: Experimental research with animal models using 36 wistar rats exposed to UVA and divided into 2 groups, given 10% cocoa extract cream and basic cream on the back area. The parameters assessed were superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in skin tissue. Comparative analysis with independent T-test using SPSS version 21 to compare SOD levels of both groups. Results: Superoxide dismutase levels in both groups were found to be normally distributed (p&gt; 0.05). The results of the comparative test with the Independent T-test found that the mean SOD levels of the treatment group were higher than those of the control group at 8.07 ± 1.99 ng/ml and 5.04 ± 1.54 ng/ml (p&lt; 0.001; 95% CI: 1.82-4.24). Conclusion: Topical application of 10% cocoa extract cream on the skin of Wistar rats exposed to UVA light resulted in higher levels of superoxide dismutase in the rat skin tissue than the control.

Physiological responses and transcriptome analysis of soybean under gradual water deficit.

Soybean is an important food and oil crop widely cultivated globally. However, water deficit can seriously affect the yield and quality of soybeans. In order to ensure the stability and increase of soybean yield and improve agricultural water use efficiency (WUE), research on improving drought tolerance and the efficiency of water utilization of soybeans under drought stress has become particularly important. This study utilized the drought-tolerant variety Heinong 44 (HN44) and the drought-sensitive variety Suinong 14 (SN14) to analyze physiological responses and transcriptome changes during the gradual water deficit at the early seed-filling stage. The results indicated that under drought conditions, HN44 had smaller stomata, higher stomatal density, and lower stomatal conductance (Gs) and transpiration rate as compared to SN14. Additionally, HN44 had a higher abscisic acid (ABA) content and faster changes in stomatal morphology and Gs to maintain a dynamic balance between net photosynthetic rate (Pn) and Gs. Additionally, drought-tolerant variety HN44 had high instantaneous WUE under water deficit. Further, HN44 retained a high level of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and proline content, mitigating malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation and drought-induced damage. Comprehensive analysis of transcriptome data revealed that HN44 had fewer differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under light drought stress, reacting insensitivity to water deficit. At the initial stage of drought stress, both varieties had a large number of upregulated DEGs to cope with the drought stress. Under severe drought stress, HN44 had fewer downregulated genes enriched in the photosynthesis pathway than SN14, while it had more upregulated genes enriched in the ABA-mediated signaling and glutathione metabolism pathways than SN14. During gradual water deficit, HN44 demonstrated better drought-tolerant physiological characteristics and water use efficiency than SN14 through key DEGs such as GmbZIP4, LOC100810474, and LOC100819313 in the major pathways. Key transcription factors were screened and identified, providing further clarity on the molecular regulatory pathways responsible for the physiological differences in drought tolerance among these varieties. This study deepened the understanding of the drought resistance mechanisms in soybeans, providing valuable references for drought-resistant soybean breeding.

Improving fresh strawberry shelf life and quality by using the fresh‐keeping paper embedded with oregano essential oil and tea polyphenols

SummaryThe short shelf life of fresh strawberries limits its marketing potential, despite its valuable economic and nutritional benefits. An environmentally friendly fresh‐keeping paper was prepared with oregano essential oil (OEO) and tea polyphenols (TP) and used in the storage of strawberries. Results showed that, during the late storage period, the TP and OEO fresh‐keeping paper treatments reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) content by 29.04% and 34.47%, respectively, compared with the control samples. The treatments also reduced decay incidence, weight loss, epidermal microorganisms and total anthocyanins content (TAC). Furthermore, the treatments reduce polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, delay the colour development and maintain better sensory attributes. Notably, OEO fresh‐keeping paper treatment not only increased the titratable acidity (TA) and total soluble solids (TSS) content but also improved the scavenging ability of reactive oxygen species by maintaining high levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity. These results demonstrated that fresh‐keeping paper treatment has the potential to extend the post‐harvest life of strawberries and improve their quality.

Effects of Phyllanthus emblica leaves and branches mixture on growth performance, oxidative status and intestinal characteristics in broiler chickens

This study investigated the effect of Phyllanthus emblica leaves and branches mixture (PE) on growth performance, oxidative status and intestinal characteristics in broilers, as well as the in vitro antioxidant potential of PE extract (PEE). As the result of in vitro evaluation, the PEE had a total phenolic compound content of 95.5 ± 2.75 mg of Gallic acid equivalent/g dry weight (DW), and a total flavonoid content of 3.04 ± 0.06 mg of quercetin equivalent/g DW. The PEE exhibited significant antioxidant activity through various mechanisms, including chelation of ferrous iron, reducing power, scavenging 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals, inhibition of liposome peroxidation and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC). A total of 320 Ross 308 broilers were randomly allocated into four groups: control, basal diet supplemented with 0.5%, 1%, 2% PE. Each group was fed for 35 d. The results showed that the group fed with 0.5% PE had significantly better weight gain, and improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to the control group. Moreover, each PE group significantly reduced coliform and Clostridium perfringens in the ileum and caecum. Additionally, PE group with 0.5% concentration had significantly higher villus height in the jejunum compared to the other group. Furthermore, compared to the control group, each PE group had significantly lower levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and higher levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity in the serum. In the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of chickens, each PE group showed significantly higher mRNA levels of antioxidant-regulated genes, including Nrf2, GST, GCLC, SOD1 and HO-1. In contrast, the expression levels of NOX1 and ROMO1 genes were significantly lower. In conclusion, the inclusion of 0.5% PE in the basal diet could have a positive impact on the growth performance of broilers by modulating intestinal characteristics and oxidative status.

Differential impacts of endogenous antioxidants on clinical symptoms and cognitive function in acute and chronic schizophrenia patients.

Impaired antioxidant defense is implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia; and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) are three first-line endogenous antioxidants. Various cognitive functions decline differently during schizophrenia course. The characteristic roles of the three antioxidants in clinical and cognitive profiles in acute and chronic phases of schizophrenia require study. We recruited 311 patients with schizophrenia, including 92 acutely exacerbated patients who had been off antipsychotics for at least 2 weeks and 219 chronic patients who had been stable on medication for at least 2 months. Blood SOD, CAT, and GSH, clinical symptoms, and nine cognitive tests were measured. Blood CAT levels were higher in the acute patients than in the chronic patients, while SOD and GSH levels were similar between them. Higher CAT levels were correlated with less positive symptoms, better working memory and problem solving in the acute phase, and less negative symptoms, less general psychopathology, better global assessment of function (GAF), and better cognitive function (in speed of processing, attention, problem solving) in the chronic period. Higher SOD levels were correlated with better GAF in the acute phase, and better speed of processing, working memory, and verbal learning and memory in the chronic period. GSH influenced neither clinical nor cognitive manifestations. This study showed that blood CAT affected different clinical and cognitive domains between acute and chronic stages of schizophrenia, SOD influenced cognitive functions in chronic state, but GSH impacted none. Further studies are needed to explore the underlying mechanisms.

Aqueous Extract of Malus domestica Inhibits Human Platelet Aggregation Induced by Multiple Agonists

Cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, myocardial infarction, and atherosclerosis are the major cause of morbidity and mortality in humankind and not only afflict industrialized nations but also affect developing countries such as Pakistan. We attempted to screen one of the most common fruits, Malus domestica (MD or apple), used in Pakistan for its potential cardio-protective effects. The crude aqueous extract (MD-Aq) was prepared and investigated for inhibitory activity against several important cardiovascular drug targets. Activities of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were studied, as well as total antioxidant status (TAS). Calcium channel blocking activity was measured using guinea pig ileum in an isolated tissue bath setup. Platelet aggregation studies were carried out using a dual-channel aggregometer. MD-Aq showed dose-dependent improvement in the GPX activity. The highest SOD levels were observed with 10 mg/ml and were 185 U/L compared to 174 U/L for saline, which means no significant effect by MD-Aq. TAS levels were highest at 10 mg/ml of MD-Aq, reaching 1.75 mmol/L of plasma. At 10 mg/ml, close to 90% inhibition of KCl-induced opening of calcium channels was observed, compared with the effect of 1mM Verapamil. At each dose of 1, 5, and 10 mg/ml, a significantly higher arachidonic acid-induced inhibition of platelet aggregation was observed as compared to the saline effect. MD-Aq effects on platelet-activating factor-induced platelet aggregation were less potent. We concluded that MD-Aq could elevate GPX and TAS levels, is inactive at SOD, and is excellent as a calcium channel blocker, a more potent blocker of arachidonic acid-induced aggregation than platelet-activating factor-induced aggregation. These activities can help treat various cardiovascular diseases.

Assessing common bean genotypes for resistance to Diabrotica speciosa (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae).

Diabrotica speciosa (Germar) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is a major pest of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.; Fabales: Fabaceae), and adults can defoliate plants during the whole crop cycle. This study was conducted to evaluate the resistance to D. speciosa in 16 common bean genotypes (14 landraces and 2 cultivars), through three different experiments. In the laboratory, choice and no-choice feeding tests were performed to evaluate the percentage of leaf consumption. In the greenhouse, plant height, numbers of leaves, percentage of injured leaves, percentage of injury per leaf, weight of seeds, and D. speciosa survival were evaluated. Furthermore, trichome density, levels of peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and protein content in common bean leaves were assessed. In the laboratory, the genotypes Chumbinho Branco, Dobalde, Manteigado, IPR Tuiuiú, and 90D Mouro were the least consumed by D. speciosa. In the greenhouse, the genotypes Dobalde, Manteigado, and IPR Tuiuiú expressed tolerance to the pest, which was associated with a higher plant height and/or unchanged POD and SOD levels and protein content following insect feeding, and no reduction in seed production. The landrace 90D Mouro exhibited antixenosis and tolerance to D. speciosa, observed as a lower leaf injury, higher trichome density, lower protein contents, higher SOD level and no reduction in seed weight. Overall, we have shown that antixenosis and tolerance can help overcome damages resulting from D. speciosa feeding, with emphasis on four common bean genotypes that may be useful in plant breeding programs aimed at controlling D. speciosa in common bean crops.

The effect of stinky bean (Parkia speciosa) peel ethanolic extract to enhance superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduce malondialdehyde (MDA) level of “jelantah” exposed rats

“Jelantah” is cooking palm oil which is used repeatedly. Its daily use leads to enhancement of free radical level in the body. Free radical level should be lowered by a compound named antioxidant, either synthetic or natural antioxidant. This study aims to analyze the effect of P. speciosa peel ethanolic extract (PSPE) to superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) level of jelantah exposed Rattus norvegicus (rats). The rats were divided into four groups. There were group I as a negative control (without jelantah and PSPE treatment), group II with 1 ml jelantah 118 mek/kg + 100 mg/kg body weight PSPE treatment, group III with 1 ml jelantah 118 mek/kg + 200 mg/kg body weight PSPE treatment, and group IV is a positive control (with 1 ml jelantah 118 mek/kg). The results showed that range of SOD and MDA level are 20.63-79.06 U/ml and 1.75-9.34 nmol/ml, respectively, with significantly different at α: 0.05. The negative control showed the highest SOD level and lowest MDA level because it was not treated with jelantah. On the other hand, the positive control showed the opposite because it was only treated with jelantah without addition of PSPE. Furthermore, the group III showed higher SOD and lower MDA level than group II. Those indicate that the higher PSPE concentration, the higher SOD level and the lower MDA level. SOD as an antioxidant has contrary level to MDA as free radical. PSPE showed a significant effect to the enhancement of SOD level and the reduction of MDA level in jelantah exposed rats.

Resilience and bioresponse of two marine algae to petroleum fuel pollution

ABSTRACT Petroleum pollution can upset the ecological stability and health of a marine ecosystem. The physiological, biochemical and morphological responses of Nannochloropsis oculata and Porphyridium cruentum to three different petroleum fuels, kerosene, diesel and gasoline were examined. The effect of water soluble fractions (WSFs) of the three petroleum fuels was investigated at 0%, 25%, 50% and 100%. The growth response of both species was monitored optically every two days for 14 days using a 721 visible spectrophotometer. Chlorophyll a, morphology and antioxidant enzyme activity of the algae were examined using prescribed methods. In both algae, minimum growth was obtained with 100% WSF of the petroleum fuels. In N. oculata, there was growth stimulation and the maximum growth was obtained at different concentrations (25% and 50%) depending on the test fuels. The maximum growth of P. cruentum was obtained at 10% WSF in all the fuels. ANOVA (p < 0.05) showed significant differences in algal growth with changes in concentration of the test fuels. Unpaired t-tests showed that in all the fuels, there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the growth of N. oculata and P. cruentum. N. oculata showed more tolerance to petroleum fuel pollution than P. cruentum. Morphological studies showed that petroleum fuel pollution altered the size of N. oculata and caused severe cell clumping in P. cruentum. Antioxidant concentration assessment showed that whereas N. oculata produced high levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase, P. cruentum produced high levels of superoxide dismutase but was less efficient in catalase and peroxidase production. Clumping and inefficiency in antioxidant production affect the physiological and biochemical response of algae. This study showed that the severity of petroleum fuel pollution is reflected in physiological, morphological, and biochemical responses of the test algae. This research provides baseline information that can be used for the evaluation of the effect of petroleum fuel pollution in marine environment and policy making.

Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Antioxidant Responses of Young Tomato Plants (cv. Micro-Tom) to Single and Combined Mild Nitrogen and Water Deficit: Not the Sum of the Parts

This study aims to perform a broad analysis of the antioxidant (AOX) responses of young tomato plants exposed to single and combined mild nitrogen (N) and water deficits through the evaluation of oxidative biomarkers, non-enzymatic and enzymatic AOX components. 'Micro-Tom' seedlings were subjected to four treatments: control (CTR; 100%N + 100%W), N deficit (N; 50%N), water deficit (W; 50%W), and combined deficits (N + W; 50%N + 50%W). An enhancement of several non-enzymatic and enzymatic components was found in plants subjected to N + W deficit, which presented higher anthocyanins accumulation (up to 103%) as well as higher levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) transcripts at root level and of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and catalase (CAT) transcripts at shoot level. This increase in the gene expression was also translated in augmented SOD (up to 202%), APX (up to 155%) and CAT (up to 108%) activity compared to CTR plants and the single deficits. Overall, tomato plants were able to employ defense strategies to cope with this combined deficit, as demonstrated by the higher total AOX capacity (up to 87%) compared to the single deficits, which contributed to the maintenance of their redox homeostasis, with unchanged values of lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide compared with CTR plants.

Zinc deficiency and therapeutic role of sesame seeds on some physiological aspects of reproduction and growth in pregnant rats and its neonates

The present study aimed to find the Effect of zinc deficiency on some reproductive parameters among female rats and the growth of its neonates and to assess the therapeutic role of the sesame seeds. The research contained 35 pregnant females rats they were divided into seven groups, the first was control, the second was fed diet poor in zinc, the third group added sesame to diet poor in zinc and the fourth group was treated with diet poor in zinc added to it vitamin C. Groups five, six and seven were given poor zinc diet in the first, second and third trimester, respectively. The results showed a significant decrease of Prolactin (PRL) level in studied groups except in vitamin C group which showed no significant differences in value (P≤0.05) compared with a poor zinc diet group. While there were increasing in the FSH and LH levels in all studied groups except the first week which showed no significant difference compared with a poor zinc diet. Results indicated a significant decrease in the level of Estrogen(E2) in the first and third weeks, and increased its level in vitamin C and the second week groups, while sesame seeds group showed no significant difference compared with the poor zinc diet Group. The results showed an increased level of Progesterone (PRO) significantly in the second and the third week groups and a decrease in the sesame seeds and the first week groups, and the lack of significant difference in the vitamin C group compared with the poor zinc Group. The results showed a high level of superoxide dismutase( SOD) Glutathione (GSH) and low level of malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly in the studied groups except for the second week group appeared no significant difference in the level of GSH and MDA compared with a poor zinc diet group. The results of neonates showed significant increasing in the length of the body in sesame seeds and vitamin C groups, while showed no significant differences in the group of first, second and third weeks compared to poor zinc diet. Studied groups showed also a significant increase in body weight except for the second week group which showed a significant decrease, while the third week group did not show significant differences compared with the poor zinc diet Group. The results showed a significant decrease in mortality rate and the level of MDA in the brain, liver and placenta tissue extract in all groups except the second week group which showed a significant increase in the mortality rate and the level of liver MDA and placenta and in the first week in liver MDA only in comparison with a poor zinc diet group.

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Small-for-Gestational-Age: An Insight into the Placental Molecular Biomarkers.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) are two metabolic-related diseases that could affect women during pregnancy. Considering that the chorionic villi (CVs) are crucial structures for the feto-maternal exchange, the alterations in their conformation have been linked to an imbalanced metabolic environment of placenta. In this study, a multidisciplinary approach has been carried out to describe the changes occurring in the placental CVs of GDM and SGA patients. The results revealed higher levels of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD-1) and catalase (CAT), especially in the GDM placentae, which could be correlated with the hyperglycemic environment characteristic of this pathology. Furthermore, spectroscopy and histologic analyses revealed that both pathologies modify the placental lipid composition altering its structure. However, SGA induces lipid peroxidation and reduces collagen deposition within the CVs. Since the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in placentation and different metabolic activities, the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV-1) were analyzed. No changes have been observed either at general or specific levels in the CVs comparing control and pathological samples, suggesting the non-involvement of the cannabinoid system in these two pathologies.