Natural Food Sources Research Articles

The Phytochemical Properties of Low-Grade Longan Syrup and Its Potential Use as a Dietary Supplement for Honey Bees

Climate change significantly affects honey bee populations and their access to natural food sources, demanding alternative economic feed sources. Longan stands out as the most important fruit crop in Southeast Asia, but with a surplus of low-grade fruit that is not suitable for the market. This study investigates the potential of longan syrup as an alternative carbohydrate source for honey bees by measuring sugar composition, phytochemical profiles, feed, and survival, as well as the resulting gut microbial changes. Processed longan syrup contains 8.2, 85.1, and 33.1 mg/g of sucrose, glucose, and fructose. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were 24.94 and 129.78 mg/g, respectively, showing a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical inhibition rate of 26.78% and an 87.82% antiradical activity rate via 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS). In vitro supplementation studies indicated that survival was highest in the 50% w/v sucrose syrup condition (control), followed by honey bees fed with 10%, 20%, and 30% longan syrup concentrations, respectively. Analyses of honey bee gut microbiomes revealed that longan syrup supplementation increased fermentative microorganisms such as Lactobacillus and Fructobacillus, which are beneficial for honey bees’ health. Even though the addition of higher amounts of longan syrup would not be recommended, a 10% addition would be beneficial to honey bees’ health through the modulation of gut microbiomes, demonstrating its potential as a dietary supplement that is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to sugar syrup during shortages of natural carbohydrate sources.

Enhancing Aquaculture Productivity through Integrated Farming Systems: A Comparative Study of Fish-Pig and Fish-Duck Systems

Integrated farming systems involving fish-animal are of high relevance in current scenario. Studies like this asses the suitability of such systems in improving the aquaculture productivity and overall benefits to the ecosystem. It plays a crucial role in optimizing the use of small water resources in rural areas to enhance animal production. Given the potential of pig and duck manure as nutrient inputs in fish culture, a grow-out trial was conducted in a 0.1 ha earthen pond located in Elangitampatty, Kezhisenkattupatti, and Asakkattuppatti villages of Kollihills Taluk in Namakkal district, Tamil Nadu. The pond was stocked with four carp species: Catla, Rohu, Mrigal, and Grass carp in a ratio of 40:20:30:10 at a density of 7500 fish per hectare. Three treatments were employed: (1) Control (T0), where fish were fed with commercial feed, (2) Integrated fish-duck farming (T1), and (3) Integrated pig-fish farming (T2). In the control group (T0), fish were fed commercial fish feed (24% crude protein, 4 mm pellet size) at 4% of body weight, while in T1 and T2, fish received 50% of the commercial feed and were supplemented with duck and pig excreta, respectively. After an 8-month grow-out period, fish weights and total production in each group were recorded. Water quality parameters, such as pH, dissolved oxygen, free carbon dioxide, alkalinity, and hardness, were measured using standard methods (APHA, 2019). Results showed that pond fertilization with pig and duck excreta promoted the growth of algae, phytoplankton, and zooplankton, providing a natural food source for the fish. Total fish production was highest in the fish-pig integration system (T2), with a recorded yield of 4960.09 kg. Catla (Catla catla) had the highest individual species yield, with a total harvested weight of 2225.98 kg, followed by Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) at 1490.37 kg. The final average weight of Grass carp in T0, T1, and T2 was 1047 ± 13.27 g, 1151.10 ± 12.85 g, and 1490.37 ± 13.52 g, respectively. For Catla, the final average weight in T0, T1, and T2 was 910 ± 9.45 g, 960 ± 10.26 g, and 980 ± 12.20 g, respectively. Similarly, Rohu in T0, T1, and T2 weighed 850 ± 7.98 g, 900 ± 11.23 g, and 910 ± 11.16 g, respectively, while Mrigal in T0, T1, and T2 weighed 600 ± 6.04 g, 720 ± 8.50 g, and 730 ± 10.56 g, respectively. The results highlight that the fish-pig system outperformed the fish-duck system in terms of fish productivity, which may be due to the better nutrient composition in pig manure and the genetic potential of the fish species. An economic analysis revealed that the fish-pig integration system generated the highest net income (Rs. 555,353.90) and benefit-cost ratio (2.12), indicating that integrated fish-pig farming is more profitable than both fish-duck farming and the control group without integration.

Vitamin D for the prevention of disease: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline (2024)

Background. Numerous studies demonstrate associations between serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) and a variety of common disorders, including musculoskeletal, metabolic, cardiovascular, malignant, autoimmune, and infectious diseases. Although a causal link between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and many disorders has not been clearly established, these associations have led to widespread supplementation with vitamin D and increased laboratory testing for 25(OH)D in the general population. The benefit-risk ratio of this increase in vitamin D use is not clear, and the optimal vitamin D intake and the role of testing for 25(OH)D for disease prevention remain uncertain.Objective. To develop clinical guidelines for the use of vitamin D (cholecalciferol [vitamin D3] or ergocalciferol [vitamin D2]) to lower the risk of disease in individuals without established indications for vitamin D treatment or 25(OH)D testing.Materials and methods. A multidisciplinary panel of clinical experts identified and prioritized 14 clinically relevant questions related to the use of vitamin D and 25(OH)D testing to lower the risk of disease. The panel prioritized randomized placebo-controlled trials in general populations (without an established indication for vitamin D treatment or 25[OH]D testing), evaluating the effects of empiric vitamin D administration throughout the lifespan, as well as in select conditions (pregnancy and prediabetes). The panel defined “empiric supplementation” as vitamin D intake that exceeds the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) and is implemented without testing for 25(OH)D. Systematic reviews queried electronic databases for publications related to these 14 clinical questions. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology was used to assess the certainty of evidence and guide recommendations. The approach incorporated considered patient values, costs and resources required, acceptability and feasibility, and impact on health equity of the proposed recommendations. Results. The panel suggests empiric vitamin D supplementation for children and adolescents aged 1 to 18 years to prevent nutritional rickets and because of its potential to lower the risk of respiratory tract infections; for those aged 75 years and older because of its potential to lower the risk of mortality; for those who are pregnant because of its potential to lower the risk of preeclampsia, intra-uterine mortality, preterm birth, small-for-gestational-age birth, and neonatal mortality; and for those with high-risk prediabetes because of its potential to reduce progression to diabetes. Because the vitamin D doses in the included clinical trials varied considerably and many trial participants were allowed to continue their own vitamin D–containing supplements, the optimal doses for empiric vitamin D supplementation remain unclear for the populations considered. For nonpregnant people older than 50 years for whom vitamin D is indicated, the panel suggests supplementation via daily administration of vitamin D, rather than intermittent use of high doses. The panel suggests against empiric vitamin D supplementation above the current DRI to lower the risk of disease in healthy adults younger than 75 years. No clinical trial evidence was found to support routine screening for 25(OH)D in the general population, nor in those with obesity or dark complexion, and there was no clear evidence defining the optimal target level of 25(OH)D required for disease prevention in the populations considered; thus, the panel suggests against routine 25(OH)D testing in all populations considered. The panel judged that, in most situations, empiric vitamin D supplementation is inexpensive, acceptable to both healthy individuals and health care professionals, and has no negative effect on health equity.Conclusions. The panel suggests empiric vitamin D for those aged 1 to 18 years and adults over 75 years of age, those who are pregnant, and those with high-risk prediabetes. Due to the scarcity of natural food sources rich in vitamin D, empiric supplementation can be achieved through a combination of fortified foods and supplements that contain vitamin D. Based on the absence of supportive clinical trial evidence, the panel suggests against routine 25(OH)D testing in the absence of established indications. These recommendations are not meant to replace the current DRIs for vitamin D, nor do they apply to people with established indications for vitamin D treatment or 25(OH)D testing. Further research is needed to determine optimal 25(OH)D levels for specific health benefits.

Effects of urbanization on diet in eastern chipmunks (Tamias striatus) as determined by stable isotopes

Urban environments offer wildlife a consistent supply of anthropogenic food waste, divergent from natural food sources in nutrient composition. This study investigates the dietary impact of urbanization on eastern chipmunks (Tamias striatus (Linnaeus, 1758)) by analyzing stable isotope signatures (∂13C and ∂15N) in their hair. The hypothesis posits that chipmunks in urban locales consume more corn-based and high-protein foods, reflected in elevated isotopic signatures compared to their rural counterparts. Sampling encompassed 20 sites across Sudbury, Ontario, varying in urbanization levels. Urbanization was gauged via surveys capturing human activity and sources of anthropogenic food waste. Contrary to expectations, chipmunks did not exhibit δ13C signatures indicative of substantial corn consumption from human food waste. However, δ15N signatures positively correlated with urbanization, suggesting heightened animal protein intake in urban habitats. Elevated δ15N signatures may also result from the use of fertilizers in urban areas . Future avenues involve using stable isotope mixing models to pinpoint dietary sources and exploring the health and reproductive ramifications of urban diets, including effects on gut microbiome composition.

The Gut Microbiome and Lignocellulose Digestion in Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae): A Termite Incorporating Lichen into Its Diet

Lichen-feeding termites occupy a distinctive ecological niche. This feeding behavior underscores a complex interplay between the termites’ digestive abilities and the biochemical properties of lichens, known for their resilience and production of secondary metabolites. Understanding the dietary preferences and digestive mechanisms of these termites offers insights into their ecological roles and the evolutionary adaptations that enable them to exploit such a specialized food source. We conducted experiments with Constrictotermes cyphergaster, feeding it with different combinations of its natural food sources: wood bark and lichen from host trees. Gut microbial communities were analyzed through 16S rRNA sequencing and shotgun metagenomics. Our results revealed that a diet containing lichens induces a shift in microbiota composition and increases the abundance of genes encoding an AA3 enzyme with a role in lignin digestion. This study emphasizes the potential role of lichens in enhancing the digestive capabilities of termites, highlighting the intricate relationships between diet, gut microbiota, and enzymatic activity in Termitidae.

A Comparison Analysis of Four Different Drying Treatments on the Volatile Organic Compounds of Gardenia Flowers.

The gardenia flower not only has extremely high ornamental value but also is an important source of natural food and spices, with a wide range of uses. To support the development of gardenia flower products, this study used headspace gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) technology to compare and analyze the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of fresh gardenia flower and those after using four different drying methods (vacuum freeze-drying (VFD), microwave drying (MD), hot-air drying (HAD), and vacuum drying (VD)). The results show that, in terms of shape, the VFD sample is almost identical to fresh gardenia flower, while the HAD, MD, and VD samples show significant changes in appearance with clear wrinkling; a total of 59 volatile organic compounds were detected in the gardenia flower, including 13 terpenes, 18 aldehydes, 4 esters, 8 ketones, 15 alcohols, and 1 sulfide. Principal component analysis (PCA), cluster analysis (CA), and partial least-squares regression analysis (PLS-DA) were performed on the obtained data, and the research found that different drying methods impact the VOCs of the gardenia flower. VFD or MD may be the most effective alternative to traditional sun-drying methods. Considering its drying efficiency and production cost, MD has the widest market prospects.

Contribution of the diatom Navicula sp. to the growth of Penaeus vannamei post-larvae in biofloc system: a quantitative stable isotope assessment

ABSTRACT The addition of Navicula sp. to shrimp nurseries can improve the growth of Penaeus vannamei reared in biofloc systems. However, the contribution of microalgae to the biofloc formation and the effective contribution to shrimp nutrition remain unknown. In this study, Navicula sp. was added to biofloc nursery systems of P. vannamei at distinct time frequencies for evaluating its nutritional contribution to shrimp growth. Nursery rearing was carried out in bioflocs for 35 days at a stocking density of 3000 post-larvae m−3. Shrimp were fed using a commercial feed plus fresh culture of Navicula sp. at different frequencies: no addition of Navicula sp. (WN – control), the addition of 10 × 104 cells mL−1 of the diatom every 5, 10 and 15 days (N5, N10 and N15, respectively). Food sources relative contribution to P. vannamei development was estimated using a Bayesian mixture model. The isotopic discrimination factor (Δ15N and Δ13C) for each food source was determined experimentally. After 35 days of culture, survival (∼93 %) was similar across all treatments but there was a significant difference in weight gain and feed conversion ratio. The N10 treatment (0.50 ± 0.05 g, 0.99 ± 0.01) exhibited better growth parameters when compared to the WN treatment (0.33 ± 0.07 g, 11.46 ± 0.30). Biofloc was the food source most assimilated by shrimp followed by Navicula sp. and commercial feed. Contribution of Navicula sp. was higher in the N5 treatment. In the treatments with diatom addition, an inverse correlation was observed between the relative contributions of biofloc and Navicula sp., indicating that Navicula sp. is not in the biofloc composition, but it is directly consumed by P. vannamei post-larvae. Biofloc and Navicula sp. exhibited larger contributions to the growth of shrimp, reinforcing the importance of natural food sources to the aquaculture of P. vannamei post-larvae.

Influence of different stocking densities of pearlspot (Etroplus suratensis) on plankton diversity indices of biofilm-based rearing system

Aim: Biofilm-based aquaculture systems, proven cost-effective, reduce the need for expensive supplementary feed. The biofilm acts as a natural planktonic food source for reared organisms. Previous research highlighted the influence of fish stocking density and biomass on plankton diversity in different aquaculture settings, underscoring the significance of these factors in biofilm-based systems. Hence, the present study attempted to understand how varying stocking densities of pearlspot (Etroplus suratensis) influence plankton diversity indices in the biofilm-based aquaculture system. Methodology: The present experiment was designed in 5 Practical Salinity Unit (PSU) brackishwater with soil-bottomed FRP circular (500 L) tanks for 60 days. The sugarcane bagasse was used as a substrate forbiofilm production after fertilization with cow dung, urea, and lime. Fries of pearlspot (4.67 ± 0.04 mm 1.71 ± 0.03 g-1) were stocked at four different stocking densities in triplicates viz T1 (50 nos); T2 (100 nos), T3 (150 nos) and T4 (200 nos) fish fry m-3 in the biofilm-based rearing system. Plankton samples were collected from water and biofilm deposited on the substrate and analyzed for diversity indices. The Shannon Diversity Index, Simpson Diversity Index, Simpson Dominance Index, and Margalef Richness Index were used to compute the plankton diversity indices in different treatments using standard equations. Results: In the current investigation, lower stocking densities with lower fish biomass were associated with significantly higher (P≤0.05) Shannon Diversity Index, Simpson Diversity Index, and Margalef Richness Index in water. In contrast, the Simpson Dominance Index in water showed a significantly lower (P≤0.05) value for treatments with lower fish biomass than for treatments with higher biomass. Interpretation: The values obtained for various diversity indices indicated that a biofilm-rearing system with lower E. suratensis biomass produced more planktonic abundance, evenness, and species richness. Key words: Biofilm, Pearlspot, Plankton diversity, Stocking density

Identification and molecular mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effect of sea cucumber peptides: Network pharmacology, molecular docking and animal experiments

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease for which there is currently no efficacious therapeutic drug with fewer side effects. Therefore, the development of approaches for the prevention of UC from natural food sources is urgently needed. In this study, mice were pre-fed with sea cucumber peptides prior to dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) induction. Results showed that sea cucumber peptides decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-4 and IL-10) levels and remissions of main clinic symptoms in a dose-dependent manner. The composition of peptides was identified, and the anti-inflammatory molecular mechanism was evaluated by silico prediction. The molecular weight of the peptides was 243–1800 Da and composed of 3–18 amino acid residues. Online activity assessment and molecular docking prediction revealed that tripeptides of FGI, FLI, FLL, GFL, GFM, IGF and LDF exhibited strong anti-inflammatory activity. Particularly, LDF showed the highest potency, with a binding energy of −5.37 kJ/mol. Network pharmacology analysis of UC related diseases indicated that active peptides interact with colitis disease targets, primarily proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase Src (SRC), E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase XIAP (XIAP) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). The results suggest that sea cucumber peptides have potential as a novel nutraceutical option for colitis relief.

Polyphenols in bee products and prevention of cell senescence.

Sustaining the continuity of cells and their homeostasis throughout the lifespan is compulsory for the survival of an organism. Cellular senescence is one of mechanisms involved in cell homeostasis and survival, and plays both important and detrimental roles in the maintenance of malfunctioned and normal cells. However, when exposed to various insults (genetic, metabolic and environmental), the cells undergo oxidative stress which may induce premature senescence, or so-called stress-induced premature senescence. Many age-related diseases are associated with premature senescence. Hence, there is growing interest in the intake of natural sources such as dietary food, which has protective functions on human health and diseases as well as on premature senescence. There are many natural food sources which have beneficial effects on delaying cell senescence, of which bee products are one of them. Bee products (honey, propolis, royal jelly, bee pollen, bee bread, venom and wax) are rich in polyphenols, a compound that exerts powerful antioxidant actions against oxidative stress and is able to delay premature senescence that is linked to ageing. This review describes the factors triggering senescence, the biomarkers involved and the prevention of senescence by the polyphenols present in bee products. Thus, it is hoped that this will provide new insights into the clinical management of age-related diseases.

Comprehensive review of toxicological risks in wild game consumption

The consumption of wild game meat, rooted in cultural traditions and increasingly favored as a natural food source, presents both nutritional benefits and toxicological challenges. While wild game offers a rich source of protein and essential nutrients, it also carries unique risks associated with environmental contaminants, naturally occurring toxins, and zoonotic diseases. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of these toxicological hazards, drawing from a wide range of scientific literature. It examines the origins of toxins in wild game, including heavy metals, pesticides, and other environmental pollutants, as well as the risks posed by animals' natural diets and traditional hunting methods. Additionally, the review addresses the public health implications of consuming contaminated wild game and offers strategies for mitigating these risks. By exploring the complex interplay between wild game consumption and toxicology, this review aims to inform both consumers and public health professionals, emphasizing the importance of safe practices in the handling and preparation of wild game meat to minimize potential health hazards.

Effects of Marigold and Paprika Extracts as Natural Pigments on Laying Hen Productive Performances, Egg Quality and Oxidative Stability

Enhancing the quality of eggs by using natural food sources has become a very important topic in the last decade. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of natural (marigold and paprika extracts) pigments on the shelf life of eggs from laying hens. This research was carried out for a 6-week period on 168 Lohmann Brown laying hens (45 weeks age) divided into four groups (C, E1, E2 and E3) to assess the performances, external and internal egg quality parameters, egg yolk color, and antioxidant profile. The control group (C) was fed a standard diet (16.39% PB, 2750 kcal EM/kg compound feed) and the experimental diets were supplemented with 0.07% marigold extract (E1), 0.07% paprika extract (E2), and a mixture containing 0.07% of both extracts (E3). In summary, the study demonstrated that adding natural pigments from marigold and paprika extract with highly antioxidant lipid capacity into the diets of laying hens improved egg quality when eggs were stored at 28 days, under both storage temperature conditions (4 °C and 20 °C).

Carnosic acid, a novel food-source AT1R antagonist and its anti-hypertension mechanism

Hypertension is the most prevalent non-communicable disease, affecting billions of people worldwide. Discovery and development of natural antihypertensive lead compounds or drugs are important to resolve the limitations of existing antihypertensive drug safety and resistance. This investigation verified that carnosic acid (CA), an important active ingredient of rosemary, an edible spice plant, indicates a significant anti-hypertensive activity in spontaneous hypertension rats by targeting AT1R. Moreover, our research indicated that CA shared a comparable antagonistic mechanism with established synthetic angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), as it occupies the binding sites of Angiotensin II (AngII) at His6 and Pro7 within the AT1R's ligand-binding pocket. Notably, CA exerted better anti-hypertensive activity since it could not break the Asn1113.35-Asn2957.46 hydrogen bond to stabilize the AT1R inactive state. As the first potent AT1R antagonist identified in a natural food source, CA is poised to become a novel anti-hypertensive lead compound, distinguished by its unique skeleton structure different from conventional ARBs. This research lays a valuable theoretical groundwork for the future exploration of CA and rosemary extract in both fundamental studies and clinical applications.

The natural food composition of long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis Raffles, 1821) inhabiting the Muara Angke Wildlife Reserve in North Jakarta

Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) is one species of wild animals inhabits Muara Angke Wildlife Reserve (SMMA), a wetland reserve predominantly grown by mangrove swamp forest. As there is high encounter of M. fascicularis with human and high incident of human-given food, it is important to understand the composition of natural food of M. fascicularis. The method used was quantitative with data collection techniques using scan sampling technique with 5-minute intervals. Natural food source for M. fascicularis in SMMA is provided by 17 species of plants. The main natural food sources providing both leaves and fruits are Ficus benjamina (54.62%) and Sonneratia caseolaris (28.9%). The most common plant parts eaten by M. fascicularis are leaves (61%) and fruit (21%), resembles to those of leaf monkeys (langurs). However, is a high possibility that nutrient needed to supplement high leaf consumption in SMMA monkeys is provided by non-natural human-given food.

Consumption of Different Artificial Diets by Apis mellifera L. Colonies During Dearth Period in Morena, M.P., India

Aims: The insufficient availability during the dearth periods poses considerable threat to the sustainability and productivity of Apis mellifera L. colonies. The present study was undertaken to determine how honey bee colonies consume various artificial diets treatments during the times when natural food sources are scarce in the study region. Study Site and Duration: The present experiment was carried out at apiary of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Morena and at beekeeper’s apiary in Morena district of Madhya Pradesh during 2022-23 and 2023-24. Methodology: Five different artificial diets were formulated and a weighted amount of diets, in the form of patties, were given to experimental colonies in three replicates by wrapping in the butter paper and placed on the top bar over the brood frames starting from October to December at weekly intervals during dearth periods. The net weight of diets consumed (fresh weight - weight of the remaining diet) was measured after each feeding at weekly intervals. Results: The results revealed that significant highest mean consumption was recorded from the colonies fed with Diet 4 with 34.39g/colony (2022-23) and 35.29g/colony (2023-24). The decreasing order of amount of consumption of the different diets was observed as follows: Diet 4 >Diet 1>Diet 3>Diet 2>Diet 5. Regardless of the diets, highest consumption was recorded on November 11th with 58.95g/colony (2022-23) and 61.41g/colony (2023-24) and the lowest consumption of 5.88g/colony (2022-23) and 5.55g/colony (2023-24) on 16th December with no further consumption recorded in any of the diets. Conclusion: The study concluded that Diet 4 exhibited the highest mean consumption indicating the most preferred diet, followed by Diets 1, 3, 2, and 5. Peak consumption was reported on November 11th, and the lowest on December 16th, with no further consumption thereafter.

Ile-Pro-Pro attenuates sympathetic activity and hypertension.

Isoleucine-proline-proline (Ile-Pro-Pro, IPP) is a natural food source tripeptide that inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity. The aim of this study was to determine the central and peripheral roles of IPP in attenuating sympathetic activity, oxidative stress and hypertension. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to sham-operated surgery (Sham) or two-kidney one-clip (2K1C) surgery to induce renovascular hypertension. Renal sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure were recorded. Bilateral microinjections of IPP to hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) attenuated sympathetic activity (-16.1 ± 2.5%, P < 0.001) and hypertension (-8.7 ± 1.5 mmHg, P < 0.01) in 2K1C rats by inhibiting ACE activity and subsequent angiotensin II and superoxide production in the PVN. Intravenous injections of IPP also attenuated sympathetic activity (-15.1 ± 2.1%, P < 0.001) and hypertension (-16.8 ± 2.3 mmHg, P < 0.001) via inhibiting ACE activity and oxidative stress in both PVN and arteries of 2K1C rats. The duration of the effects of the intravenous IPP was longer than those of the PVN microinjection, but the sympatho-inhibitory effect of intravenous injections occurred later than that of the PVN microinjection. Intraperitoneal injection of IPP (400 pmol/day for 20 days) attenuated hypertension and vascular remodeling via inhibiting ACE activity and oxidative stress in both PVN and arteries of 2K1C rats. These results indicate that IPP attenuates hypertension and sympathetic activity by inhibiting ACE activity and oxidative stress. The sympathoinhibitory effect of peripheral IPP is mainly caused by the ACE inhibition in PVN, and the antihypertensive effect is related to the sympathoinhibition and the arterial ACE inhibition. Long-term intraperitoneal IPP therapy attenuates hypertension, oxidative stress and vascular remodeling.

Rearing of European catfish (Silurus glanis L.) in earthen ponds in polyculture with common carp larvae (Cyprinus carpio L.)

The aim of the present study is the production of stocking material of European catfish (Silurus glanis L.) using common carp larvae (Cyprinus carpio L.) as natural food source. The experiment was carried out in two earthen ponds (№18 and №19). The stocking material was produced through semi-artificial reproduction of European catfish and natural reproduction of common carp in two stages. The main aquaculture production indicators of the stocking material of European catfish and common carp were calculated: growth (WG, g), survival (%), total yield (kg) and average yield (kg/1000 m2). The obtained results show that the growth of European catfish in pond №19 is 69.67 g, while in pond №18 it is 58.91 g. Also, the survival rate in pond №19 is 2.8 times higher than in pond №18. After analyzing the obtained results, it can be concluded that the production indicators of the European catfish stocking material are higher in experimental pond №19.

Biofloc Technology: Optimizing Aquaculture through Microbial Innovation

Biofloc technology (BFT) is an innovative approach in aquaculture that provides substantial advantages for the implementation of sustainable and efficient aquaculture techniques. BFT entails the careful management of water quality and the provision of nutrients to cultivated aquatic organisms by adding carbon sources in a balanced manner. This supports the formation of advantageous microbial communities. The biofloc is an assemblage of organic material and microbes that is abundant in proteins. It functions as a natural source of food for species such as tilapia and prawns, hence decreasing the reliance on costly commercial feeds. This self-contained system aids in water conservation, fertiliser recycling, and waste and pollution reduction in comparison to traditional aquaculture methods. BFT additionally boosts the immune system of aquatic species, diminishing the likelihood of prevalent illnesses and fostering overall well-being. Nevertheless, the technology necessitates meticulous control of variables like as carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, water temperature, and dissolved oxygen in order to uphold a stable and fruitful environment. Although there are certain operational difficulties, BFT proves to be a viable approach for attaining sustainable aquaculture by enhancing output while minimising the negative effects on the environment.

Relationship Between The Dynamics of Plankton Community Abundance, Total Organic Matter, and Salinity in Intensive Shrimp Farming Systems

Plankton plays an important role in shrimp cultivation in ponds, both as an indicator of water quality and as a natural food source for shrimp that are raised. The purpose of this study was to measure the relationship between the dynamics of the plankton community, the concentration of total organic matter, and water salinity with the abundance of plankton in intensive shrimp farming systems. The study was conducted on six units of ponds located in Cirebon district, West Java, Indonesia. The ponds were lined with HDPE on each side and plastic mulch at the bottom. Post larvae of shrimp were stocked at an average density of 110 shrimp.m-2 and maintained for 98 days. Water quality samples were collected for daily measurement. Data were analyzed descriptively and then analyzed using Pearson's correlation test and regression. The results of this study showed that during the shrimp rearing period, 65 species of plankton were identified, consisting of Chlorophyta 20%, Cyanophyta 15.38%, Diatoms 26.15%, Euglenophyta 6.15%, Dinoflagellates 4.62%, Protozoa 10.77%, and Ciliates 16.92% with an average density ranging from 7.56x105-19.99x105 cells.mL-1. Chlorella sp. (Chlorophyta) and Oscillatoria sp. (Cyanophyta) were found to be the dominating species in all ponds. Total phytoplankton density tended to be higher during the first 54 days of culture. The results of the correlation and regression tests showed that the composition of plankton, the concentration of total organic matter, and the salinity of the water affected the abundance of plankton in the pond.

Vitamin D for the Prevention of Disease: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline.

Numerous studies demonstrate associations between serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) and a variety of common disorders, including musculoskeletal, metabolic, cardiovascular, malignant, autoimmune, and infectious diseases. Although a causal link between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and many disorders has not been clearly established, these associations have led to widespread supplementation with vitamin D and increased laboratory testing for 25(OH)D in the general population. The benefit-risk ratio of this increase in vitamin D use is not clear, and the optimal vitamin D intake and the role of testing for 25(OH)D for disease prevention remain uncertain. To develop clinical guidelines for the use of vitamin D (cholecalciferol [vitamin D3] or ergocalciferol [vitamin D2]) to lower the risk of disease in individuals without established indications for vitamin D treatment or 25(OH)D testing. A multidisciplinary panel of clinical experts, along with experts in guideline methodology and systematic literature review, identified and prioritized 14 clinically relevant questions related to the use of vitamin D and 25(OH)D testing to lower the risk of disease. The panel prioritized randomized placebo-controlled trials in general populations (without an established indication for vitamin D treatment or 25[OH]D testing), evaluating the effects of empiric vitamin D administration throughout the lifespan, as well as in select conditions (pregnancy and prediabetes). The panel defined "empiric supplementation" as vitamin D intake that (a) exceeds the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) and (b) is implemented without testing for 25(OH)D. Systematic reviews queried electronic databases for publications related to these 14 clinical questions. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology was used to assess the certainty of evidence and guide recommendations. The approach incorporated perspectives from a patient representative and considered patient values, costs and resources required, acceptability and feasibility, and impact on health equity of the proposed recommendations. The process to develop this clinical guideline did not use a risk assessment framework and was not designed to replace current DRI for vitamin D. The panel suggests empiric vitamin D supplementation for children and adolescents aged 1 to 18 years to prevent nutritional rickets and because of its potential to lower the risk of respiratory tract infections; for those aged 75 years and older because of its potential to lower the risk of mortality; for those who are pregnant because of its potential to lower the risk of preeclampsia, intra-uterine mortality, preterm birth, small-for-gestational-age birth, and neonatal mortality; and for those with high-risk prediabetes because of its potential to reduce progression to diabetes. Because the vitamin D doses in the included clinical trials varied considerably and many trial participants were allowed to continue their own vitamin D-containing supplements, the optimal doses for empiric vitamin D supplementation remain unclear for the populations considered. For nonpregnant people older than 50 years for whom vitamin D is indicated, the panel suggests supplementation via daily administration of vitamin D, rather than intermittent use of high doses. The panel suggests against empiric vitamin D supplementation above the current DRI to lower the risk of disease in healthy adults younger than 75 years. No clinical trial evidence was found to support routine screening for 25(OH)D in the general population, nor in those with obesity or dark complexion, and there was no clear evidence defining the optimal target level of 25(OH)D required for disease prevention in the populations considered; thus, the panel suggests against routine 25(OH)D testing in all populations considered. The panel judged that, in most situations, empiric vitamin D supplementation is inexpensive, feasible, acceptable to both healthy individuals and health care professionals, and has no negative effect on health equity. The panel suggests empiric vitamin D for those aged 1 to 18 years and adults over 75 years of age, those who are pregnant, and those with high-risk prediabetes. Due to the scarcity of natural food sources rich in vitamin D, empiric supplementation can be achieved through a combination of fortified foods and supplements that contain vitamin D. Based on the absence of supportive clinical trial evidence, the panel suggests against routine 25(OH)D testing in the absence of established indications. These recommendations are not meant to replace the current DRIs for vitamin D, nor do they apply to people with established indications for vitamin D treatment or 25(OH)D testing. Further research is needed to determine optimal 25(OH)D levels for specific health benefits.