Nitrite Levels Research Articles

Protective effect of a hydromethanolic extract from Fraxinus excelsior L. bark against a rat model of aluminum chloride-induced Alzheimer's disease: Relevance to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects

Ethnopharmacological relevanceFraxinus excelsior L. (FE), commonly known as the ash, belongs to the Oleaceae family and has shown several pharmacological and biological properties, such as antioxidant, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects. It has also attracted the most attention toward neuroinflammation. Moreover, FE bark and leaves have been used to treat neurological disorders, aging, neuropathic pain, urinary complaints, and articular pain in traditional and ethnomedicine. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder resulting from the involvement of amyloid-beta, metal-induced oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. Aim of the studyThe objective of the current study was to assess the neuroprotective effects of hydromethanolic extract from FE bark in an AlCl3-induced rat model of AD. Materials and methodsThe maceration process was utilized to prepare the hydromethanolic extract of FE bark, and characterized by LC-MS/MS. To assess the anti-AD effects of the FE extract, rats were categorized into five different groups, AlCl3; normal control; FE-treated groups at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. Passive avoidance learning test, Y-maze, open field, and elevated plus maze behavioral tests were evaluated on days 7 and 14 to analyze the cognitive impairments. Zymography analysis, biochemical tests, and histopathological changes were also followed in different groups. ResultsLC-MS/MS analysis indicated the presence of coumarins, including isofraxidin7-O-diglucoside in the methanolic extract of FE as a new isofraxidin derivative in this genus. FE significantly improved memory and cognitive function, maintained weight, prevented neuronal damages, and preserved the hippocampus's histological features, as demonstrated by behavioral tests and histopathological analysis. FE increased anti-inflammatory MMP-2 activity, whereas it decreased that of inflammatory MMP-9. Moreover, FE increased plasma antioxidant capacity by enhancing CAT and GSH while decreasing nitrite levels in the serum of treated groups. In comparison between the treated groups, the rats that received high doses of the FE extract (200 mg/kg) showed the highest therapeutic effect. ConclusionFE rich in coumarins could be an effective anti-AD adjunct agent, passing through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. These results encourage further studies for the development of this extract as a promising agent in preventing, managing, or treating AD and related diseases.

Antipsychotic effect of diosgenin in ketamine-induced murine model of schizophrenia: Involvement of oxidative stress and cholinergic transmission

A decrease in the levels of antioxidant arsenals exacerbate generation of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, leading to neurochemical dysfunction, with significant impact on the pathogenesis of psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. This study examined the preventive and reversal effects of diosgenin, a phyto-steroidal saponin with antioxidant functions in mice treated with ketamine which closely replicates schizophrenia-like symptoms in human and laboratory animals. In the preventive phase, adult mice cohorts were clustered into 5 groups (n = 9). Groups 1 and 2 received saline (10 mL/kg, i.p.), groups 3 and 4 were pretreated with diosgenin (25 and 50 mg/kg), and group 5 received risperidone (0.5 mg/kg) orally for 14 days. Mice in groups 2–5 additionally received a daily dose of ketamine (20 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline (10 mL/kg/day, i.p.). In the reversal phase, mice received intraperitoneal injection of ketamine or saline for 14 consecutive days prior to diosgenin (25 and 50 mg/kg/p.o./day) and risperidone (0.5 mg/kg/p.o./day) treatment from days 8–14. Mice were assessed for behavioral changes. Oxidative, nitrergic markers, and cholinergic (acetylcholinesterase activity) transmission were examined in the striatum, prefrontal-cortex and hippocampus. Diosgenin prevented and reversed hyperlocomotion, cognitive and social deficits in mice treated with ketamine relative to ketamine groups. The increased acetylcholinesterase, malondialdehyde and nitrite levels produced by ketamine were reduced by diosgenin in the striatum, prefrontal-cortex and hippocampus, but did not reverse striatal nitrite level. Diosgenin increased glutathione, and catalase levels, except for hippocampal catalase activity when compared with ketamine controls. Conclusively, these biochemical changes might be related to the behavioral deficits in ketamine-treated mice, which were prevented and reversed by diosgenin.

3-Demethyl-2-geranyl-4-prenylbellidifoline, a natural xanthone with diuretic and kidney protective properties.

The diuretic and kidney protective effect of the 3-demethyl-2-geranyl-4-prenylbellidifoline (DGP) were evaluated in rats. The normotensive (NTR) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) received, once a day for 7 days, oral treatment with DGP (0.1 mg/kg), hydrochlorothiazide (10 mg/kg), or vehicle (10 ml/kg). Urine, blood, and kidney samples were collected for further analysis. The urine and Na+ elimination content were significantly higher in the groups that received DGP. Furthermore, a Ca2+-sparing action was detected in the urine of DGP-treated groups, which was consistent with the reduction in calcium oxalate crystal formation. Relevantly, the treatment did not change the parameters examined in the blood. Concerning the renal analyses, DGP treatment recovered the morphological damages of the kidney corpuscle area of SHR. In addition to the differences observed between the NTR and SHR vehicle groups, DGP augmented the amount of reduced glutathione and the activity of glutathione S-transferase GST while reducing the catalase and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase activity and nitrite levels. Together, this study displayed the prolonged diuretic action of DGP and its natriuretic, Ca2+-sparing, and antiurolytic effects. The antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of DGP were evidenced in SHR kidneys, opening perspectives for further studies regarding the benefits of this xanthone.

A comparative analysis of traditional meat processing methods

This comparative analysis examines traditional meat preservation techniques, including drying, curing, fermentation, smoking, fat preservation, air drying, fermented fish sauce, pickling and traditional sausage making. Rooted in different cultures, these methods use specific processes and ingredients to preserve meat, enhance flavour and extend shelf life. Some different variations and adaptations showcase techniques such as marinating, braising, and incorporating herbs or probiotics. Studies highlight advances in reducing salt and nitrite levels during pickling, improving brine handling methods, and optimizing smoking techniques for safety. Factors affecting preservation include the microbial community in fermented cured meats, temperature control during smoking and moisture content during air drying. Recent research findings observed that fermentation-enhanced sausage flavour and certain microorganisms declined histamine levels in fish sauce. New technologies and traditional methods combined facilitate conservation, nutrition, and the sensory quality of meat.

Assessment of residual nitrite levels in cooked sausages: Compliance, thermal processing effects, and consumer safety

The increasing global consumption of processed meat, which often contains nitrite as a preservative, raises health concerns due to potential adverse effects from its metabolites, such as nitric oxide and N-nitroso compounds. The study sought to evaluate the food safety of processed meat products within the Serbian market, specifically in the Belgrade region. Nitrite levels were analysed in cooked sausages, both in their raw state and after undergoing the manufacturer's recommended thermal processing prior to consumption, if applicable. Additionally, thus far, there has been a lack of research exploring the potential influence of residual nitrite levels in the meat products prepared as per manufacturer recommendations prior to the consumption of meat products, as well as their contribution to acceptable daily intake (ADI), which provides crucial insights into the overall dietary safety of processed meats. During a three-year period, the study performed analysis on a total of 77 cooked sausages, following the standard ISO methodology. Boiling the cooked sausages led to a major reduction in this meatproduct additive, whereas frying led to a comparatively smaller decrease in nitrite concentration. Additionally, the greatest exposure to nitrite compounds occurs when consuming meat products without prior preparation, i.e., without thermal treatment by consumers before ingestion. In summary, the assessment of the ADI for nitrites revealed a high level of food safety, with all values noticeably below the maximum permitted levels specified by national legislation (150 mg/kg).

The CB2-PKC pathway is involved in esketamine-induced anti-inflammation in BV-2 microglial cells exposed to lipopolysaccharides.

Esketamine (ESK), an intravenous anesthetic, exerts antidepressant effects; however, the antidepression mechanism is not clear. The aim of this study was to explore whether microglial cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor and protein kinase C (PKC) are involved in the antidepressant effects of ESK. In this investigation, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to stimulate BV-2 microglia to mimic neuroinflammation. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Griess reagent kits were used to determine cytokine and nitrite concentrations in the medium. CB2, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB (p65) protein expression were evaluated by immunocytochemistry and western blot analysis. Compared with the control, LPS enhanced proinflammatory factor and nitrite concentration in the medium, upregulated iNOS and NF-κB (p65) expressions, and coadministration of ESK decreased proinflammatory cytokine and nitrite levels, and downregulated iNOS and NF-κB (p65) expression. Moreover, ESK exposure enhanced CB2 receptor expression; coadministration of the CB2 receptor antagonist AM630 or the PKC inhibitor chelerythrine (Che), however, markedly blocked the anti-inflammatory effect of ESK in reducing cytokine and nitrite concentration, and downregulating iNOS and NF-κB (p65) expression. These observations demonstrated that the microglial CB2-PKC pathway mediates ESK-induced anti-inflammation in LPS-stimulated microglial cells.

Polydatin attenuated neuropathic pain and motor dysfunction following spinal cord injury in rats by employing its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Considering the complex pathological mechanisms behind spinal cord injury (SCI) and the adverse effects of present non-approved drugs against SCI, new studies are needed to introduce novel multi-target active ingredients with higher efficacy and lower side effects. Polydatin (PLD) is a naturally occurring stilbenoid glucoside recognized for its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to assess the effects of PLD on sensory-motor function following SCI in rats. Following laminectomy and clip compression injury at the thoracic 8 (T8)-T9 level of the spinal cord, rats were randomly assigned to five groups: Sham, SCI, and three groups receiving different doses of PLD treatment (1, 2, and 3mg/kg). Over 4weeks, behavioral tests were done such as von Frey, acetone drop, hot plate, Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan, and inclined plane test. At the end of the study, changes in catalase and glutathione activity, nitrite level, activity of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) and MMP9 as well as spinal tissue remyelination/neurogenesis, were evaluated. The results revealed that PLD treatment significantly improved the behavioral performance of the animals starting from the first week after SCI. Additionally, PLD increased catalase, and glutathione levels, and MMP2 activity while reduced serum nitrite levels and MMP9. These positive effects were accompanied by a reduction in the size of the lesion and preservation of neuronal count. In conclusion, PLD showed neuroprotective effects in SCI rats by employing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, through which improve sensory and motor function.

Evaluating the anti-neuropathic effects of naringin-loaded chitosan nanocarriers in a murine model of constriction injury

Peripheral neuropathies are associated with various detrimental complications, leading to life-debilitating disorders, including neuropathic pain. Hence, the current study aimed to incorporate naringin, a potential natural component, into chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) to ameliorate the complications resulting from chronic constriction injury (CCI) induced painful neuropathy. The prepared NPs had a particle size of 220 nm and PDI = 0.37, with relatively spherical morphology and zeta potential of +41.5 mV. The relevant analyses indicated the loading and high encapsulation efficiency of naringin into the NPs as well as a prolonged release of naringin. The anti-neuropathic evaluations of chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced rats treated with naringin-loaded NPs (10 mg/kg) remarkably ameliorated hyperalgesia and cold allodynia. In addition, the treatment with naringin-loaded NPs led to improvements in sensory and locomotor impairment, as evidenced by changes in behavioral parameters such as reduced paw licking, increased rearings, and enhanced crossings. The NPs treatment significantly attenuated the elevated levels of nitrite and restored the reduced glutathione level in the serum of CCI-induced rats. Moreover, histopathological analysis exhibited regeneration of the sciatic nerve injury through reducing myelin degeneration, axonal swelling, and nerve fiber derangement. Therefore, these findings suggest that the naringin-loaded chitosan NPs has promising pharmacological activities for the treatment of neuropathic pain sufferers.

Restoring physiological parameters of the pancreas and kidney through treatment with a polymeric nano-formulation of C-peptide and lisofylline combination in diabetic nephropathy.

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a progressive kidney disorder that develops as a complication of diabetes due to long-term exposure to elevated blood glucose levels (BGLs). In this case, an intervention of therapeutic moieties is needed to target the specific elements involved in diabetes to prevent/delay the deterioration of kidney function. Therefore, the present study focused on designing and evaluating a potent nano-formulation of a combination of C-peptide (CPep) and the anti-diabetic drug lisofylline (LSF) to prevent streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DN. As a strategic intervention, an LSF-oleic acid prodrug (LSF-OA) was initially synthesized and further encapsulated in an in-house-synthesized cationic polymer [(mPEG-b-P(CB-{g-DMDP}-co-LA)); mPLM] to prepare polymeric nano-complexes of CPep via electrostatic interaction, possessing a size of 218.6 ± 14.4 nm and zeta potential of +5.2 mV together with stability for 30 days at 25 °C. mPLM-LSF-OA-CPep nanoparticles demonstrated hemocompatibility with RBCs and exhibited potent anti-oxidant activity by reducing nitrite levels, inducing the release of anti-oxidant GSH and protecting metabolically stressed rat kidneys and murine insulinoma cells from apoptosis. In vivo pharmacokinetics depicted an increase in t½ and mean residence time in rats, which further improved the BGL and renal conditions and reduced plasma IL-6 and TNF-α levels in the STZ-induced DN animal model when treated with mPLM-LSF-OA-CPep compared to free LSF and CPep. Moreover, an increase in the plasma insulin level and detection of proliferative marker cells in pancreatic islets suggested the regeneration of β-cells in diabetic animals.

The Abilities of Different Lactic Acid Bacterial Stains to Deplete Nitrite Level in MRS and M17 Broth

Nitrite is still regarded as essentially undesirable in foods. Therefore, it is necessary to keep its concentration under control for food safety. The current study was conducted to evaluate the ability of two reference lactic acid strains to deplete nitrite. Lactobacillus acidophilus ROO52 and Streptococcus thermophiles YC-180 were examined in De Man Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) and M17 broth with standard sodium nitrite at 0.10 mg /mL and 1 mL (10-8 cells per mL) for each of the reference strains to determine the ability of these strains to eliminate nitrite during the fermentation period. A control group, MRS and M17 broth and standard nitrite without inoculum were used. The nitrite depletion was determined by a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. After 48 hours of fermentation, there were significant differences between residual nitrite levels of broth inoculated by Streptococcus thermophiles YC-180 compared to control and Lactobacillus acidophilus ROO52. Streptococcus thermophiles YC-180 depleted nitrite levels significantly (P˂0.05) from the initial concentration (0.10 mg/ml) to 0.02 mg/ml with a percentage (45%) after 48 hours compared to control and Lactobacillus acidophilus ROO52, which depleted nitrite levels from the initial concentration of 0.10 mg/ml to 0.04 mg/ml with a percentage (22.5%) after 48 hours. In conclusion, Streptococcus thermophiles YC-180 was more effective at nitrite depletion than Lactobacillus acidophilus ROO52. The reduction of nitrite occurs due to acid production and the enzymatic action of these bacteria.

The anterior cingulate cortex and its interface with the dorsal periaqueductal grey regulating nitric oxide-mediated panic-like behaviour and defensive antinociception

The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) Cg1 (24b) area modulates glutamate-mediated unconditioned fear and antinociception organised by hypothalamus. However, it remains unknown whether 24b area also modulates these latter defensive responses through connections with the dorsal periaqueductal grey matter (dPAG), a midbrain structure implicated in the genesis of innate fear-induced defence. The aim of this work is to examine the correlation between the behavioural effects of intra-ACC microinjections of vehicle, NMDA (1 nmol) or lidocaine (2%) with Fos protein expression and nitrergic activity in the dPAG of male C57BL/6 mice that were threatened by snakes. In addition, the 24b area-dPAG pathways were also characterised by neural tract tracing procedures. Finally, the effect of dPAG pretreatment with the neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N(omega)-propyl-l-arginine (NPLA; 0.2, 0.4 or 0.8 nmol) 10 min before 24b area treatment with NMDA on behavioural and nociceptive responses of threatened mice was studied. The activation of 24b area N-methyl-d-aspartic acid receptors facilitated escape and freezing rather than risk assessment, and enhanced Fos expression and nitrite levels in dPAG, while lidocaine decreased escape and risk assessment as well as Fos and nitrergic activity in dPAG. In addition, dPAG pretreatment with NPLA suppressed intra-24b NMDA-facilitated panicogenic effects while increased nociception. Infusions of an antegrade neurotracer into 24b area showed axonal fibres surrounding both dorsomedial and dorsolateral PAG perikarya. Neurons were identified in 24b area after deposits of a retrograde neurotracer into dPAG. Our findings suggest that the ACC/24b area modulates innate defensive responses through the recruitment of dPAG nitrergic neurons.

Kualitas Air Sumur Dekat SPBU Rendani Kelurahan Wosi Kecamatan Manokwari Barat Kabupaten Manokwari Provinsi Papua Barat

Wells are a groundwater source that is widely used by Indonesian citizens for sanitation and hygiene purposes. Well water quality is influenced by internal factors, namely the condition of the well itself, and external factors, namely the environment around the well. This research aims to analyze the quality of well water near the Rendani gas station, Wosi Village, West Manokwari District, Manokwari Regency, West Papua Province and compare it with the necessary water quality standards. In Indonesia, to guarantee the suitability of well water, water quality standards are stipulated in the Regulation of the Minister of Health Republic of Indonesia No. 32 of 2017. The research results show that the TDS, temperature, turbidity, sulfate, nitrate, iron, manganese and pH parameters meet the quality standards, while the chemical parameters nitrite, chromium (VI) and total coliform do not meet the quality standards. Therefore, it is necessary to treat the water to reduce levels of nitrite, chromium (VI) and total coliform before well water is consumed by residents.

Chemically Modified Screen-Printed Electrodes: An Electrochemical Interface for Nitrite Ions

A sensitive and selective nanostructured zinc oxide-based chemically modified screen-printed electrode as an electrochemical interface for the electroanalytical determination of nitrite ions at trace concentration level is demonstrated. Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized through a green chemical approach. The resulting particles have been thoroughly analyzed using spectroscopic techniques. The aqueous colloidal solution of well-characterized NPs is prepared and subsequently applied in the chemical modification of screen-printed electrodes. Electrochemical techniques have been to explore the electrochemical nature of the chemically modified interface. Cyclic voltammetry was used to decipher activity for the electro-oxidation of nitrite and differential pulse voltammetry has been used to achieve lower detection limits. The developed sensor showed a dynamic range of up to 800 μM with a detection limit of 0.5 μM. Finally, the long-range analytical applicability has been validated by determining the nitrite levels from various real samples like borewell and sewage water, orange, sweet lemon, tomato, and egg samples. The sensor showed good stability with a deviation of ± 7 %.

Health risks from desalinated seawater used for human consumption: The case of Honaine Plant (Northwest Algeria)

Background: Honaine desalination plant produces 200,000 m3/day of drinking water, and applies a reverse osmosis process with sand/anthracite filters for pre-treatment. Objective: This study aim to explore the quality of treated water (TW) and to address any potential health risks. Methods: Samples of TW were collected daily, three times during the same period, for one month to investigate the physico-chemical characteristics of desalination. They were analyzed for calcium, magnesium, pH, alkalinity, TDS, free-chlorine, hardness, nitrite and sulfate. Results: After comparing the standards set by WHO and Algeria, the results showed that the TW of Honaine plant had low-mineral content, with a noticeable deficiency of calcium (21.22 ± 0.6 mg L-1) magnesium (1.74 ± 0.26 mg L-1), and sulfate (0.02 ± 0.01 mg L-1). The levels of chlorine (0.53 ± 0.08 mg L-1) and nitrites (0.003 ± 0.00 mgL-1) were lower than what the guidelines prescribe. The alkalinity and hardness of the water categorized it as being moderately hard. As for the taste, the TDS value (289.24 ± 26.86 mgL-1) suggests that the TW is excellent but the presence of chlorine negatively influences its palatability. The values of alkalinity value (63.73 ± 1.05 mgL-1) and pH (8.42 ± 0.021) of TW remain in line with recommendations. The hardness value (60.32 ± 0.73 mgL-1) shows that TW is moderately hard and softer than standards. Conclusion: Our findings showed that desalinated TW reflected significant low-mineral content of many healthy elements.

Alcohol-induced hormonal and metabolic alterations in plasma and erythrocytes—a gender-based study

Purpose This study aimed to understand the gender-specific alcohol-induced biochemical changes and TBARS association with the endocrine system. Methods Human male and female subjects ranging from 35 ± 10 years old with an 8-10-year drinking history were included in the study. Results The results demonstrated that testosterone levels were lower in male alcoholics and higher in female alcoholics, as well as higher estrogen and cortisol levels in both genders. In addition, we found lower T3, T4, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in alcoholics of both sexes. Furthermore, plasma TBARS, protein carbonyls, nitrite, and nitrate levels increased significantly with concomitant decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities in both male and female alcoholics. Furthermore, erythrocyte lysate nitrite and nitrate levels membrane total cholesterol, phospholipid and cholesterol/phospholipid (C/P) ratio with lower total membrane proteins in both genders of alcoholics. SDS-PAGE analysis of erythrocyte membrane proteins revealed increased density of band 3, protein 4.1, 4.2, 4.9 and glycophorins, whereas decreases in spectrin (α and β) were observed in both genders of alcoholics. Besides, alcoholics of both sexes had a lower ability to resist osmotic hemolysis. Plasma TBARS was negatively correlated with testosterone, TSH, T3 and T4 in male alcoholics, moreover, estradiol and cortisol were positively correlated in males and females respectively. Conclusion Female alcoholics may be more susceptible to osmotic hemolysis due to increased erythrocyte membrane lipid peroxidation with decreased antioxidant status, which results in an altered membrane C/P ratio and membrane protein composition.

Formation of N-Nitrosamines by Reaction of Secondary Dialkylamines with Trace Levels of Nitrite in Aqueous Solution: An Automated Experimental and Kinetic Modeling Study Using Di-n-butylamine

Formation of <i>N</i>-Nitrosamines by Reaction of Secondary Dialkylamines with Trace Levels of Nitrite in Aqueous Solution: An Automated Experimental and Kinetic Modeling Study Using Di-<i>n</i>-butylamine

PROFILE OF NITRIC OXIDE METABOLISM INDICATORS IN PRETERM INFANTS WITH PERINATAL CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM INJURIES

Introduction. Premature infants often experience a heightened risk of brain damage, potentially leading to various disorders affecting motor, cognitive, behavioral, social, and sensory functions. The underlying pathological processes of hypoxic-ischemic central nervous system (CNS) injury predominantly stem from compromised cerebral blood flow and oxygen transport. Timely diagnosis and treatment options for prematurely born children with perinatal CNS damage remain limited. Nitric oxide, a universal regulator of physiological functions, plays a crucial role. Endothelial dysfunction, marked by the loss of the neurovascular protective functions of nitric oxide, could significantly contribute to the development of cognitive impairment in hypoxic-ischemic CNS damage. Objectives. The study aims to evaluate the specificities of nitrate metabolism indicators in premature infants with hypoxic-ischemic CNS lesions in the early neonatal period. This involves examining and comparing clinical indicators characterizing hemodynamics, as well as the levels of nitrites, nitrates, and nitrosothiols in urine among patients in the studied groups. Subjects and Methods. The study comprised 14 premature infants with hypoxic-ischemic CNS injury (main group), with a separate selection of 4 infants who did not survive during the neonatal period. The comparison group included 20 relatively healthy prematurely born children. Stratification was based on the results of a genetic study, specifically the determination of the rs61722009 polymorphism of the eNOS gene. The patients underwent routine clinical examinations, including blood pressure measurements, and assessments of nitrates, nitrites, and nitrosothiols in urine. Subgroups were identified as follows: 1st subgroup - 4bb (n=10), and 2nd subgroup - 4aa/4ab (n=10). Results. It was observed that newborns who did not survive had significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings on the first day of life, in comparison to relatively healthy children in the two control subgroups (day 1 - p=0.018; p=0.027; p=0.036; p=0.053). Additionally, they exhibited lower heart rate indicators on the first day (p=0.001; p=0.002). However, overall, hemodynamic indicators in newborns with hypoxic-ischemic central nervous system damage did not show statistically significant differences from the corresponding indicators in relatively healthy children. The results indicate a significantly lower level of diuresis in children who died as a result of severe with hypoxic-ischemic central nervous system damage, probably due to the development of multiple organ failure immediately after birth. As a result, it was found that the levels of nitrites (p&lt;0.001; p&lt;0.0001) and nitrates (p&lt;0.01; p&lt;0.0001) were reduced in children with with hypoxic-ischemic central nervous system damage, compared to children in the control groups, regardless of genotype variant. While the level of nitrosothiols did not differ significantly, it was even much higher in children who did not survive, 3.55±0.39 vs 2.23±0.22; p=0.008. The differences found may indicate a disruption of the regulatory effect of nitric oxyde on vascular tone and the condition of neuroglia, particularly in children with hypoxic-ischemic central nervous system damage, as a result of its insufficient production, as well as insufficient mobilization from the depot due to nitrite and nitrate reductases. Conclusions. Hemodynamic patterns in children from the examined groups, except for those who did not survive, did not exhibit significant differences. The notably lower urine output in deceased children indicates the development of multiple organ failure due to severe hypoxia. In children with hypoxic-ischemic central nervous system damage, there is a reduction in the levels of nitrites and nitrates in urine compared to relatively healthy premature infants, while the level of nitrosothiols did not show significant differences and was even notably higher in children who did not survive. The outcome of studying the levels of nitrates, nitrites, and nitrosothiols in urine in a larger patient sample may lead to the development of an algorithm for early diagnosis and management, contingent on the severity of metabolic disorders resulting from hypoxia, considering the potential influence of nitric oxide on energy deficit and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Assessment of the anxiolytic, antidepressant, and antioxidant potential of Parquetina nigrescens (Afzel.) Bullock in Wistar rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe recent growing concerns about the multisystemic nature of mental health conditions in the global population are facilitating a new paradigm involving alternative natural, nutritional, and complementary therapies. Herbal remedies despite accounts in literature of their ethnobotanical as alternative remedies for diverse ailments, remain underexplored for psychiatric disorders like anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Aim of the studyHence, the anxiolytic, antidepressant, and antioxidant properties of a hydro-ethanolic leaf extract of Parquetina nigrescens (PN) in male Wistar rats were investigated. Materials and methodsThe sedative effect was evaluated using the Diazepam sleeping time test while anxiety was induced with a single intraperitoneal injection of 20 mg/kg pentylenetetrazol (PTZ). This was after pre-treatment with 100, 150, and 250 mg/kg of PN or the standard drugs (1 mg/kg diazepam and 30 mg/kg imipramine) for 14 consecutive days. Behavioral tests (Open Field test, Elevated Plus-Maze test, and Forced Swim test) were performed on days 1 and 14, to evaluate the antidepressant and anxiolytic activities of PN. Oxidative stress and neurochemical markers were determined in the brain homogenates of the animals. ResultsThe duration of sleep was significantly (p < 0.001) increased in the PN-administered group compared to the control. The behavioral models showed that PN exhibited antidepressant and anxiolytic properties in PTZ-induced animals. Significant reductions were observed in GSH level and SOD activity while MDA, nitrite, and GPx levels were significantly increased in PTZ-induced rats. However, treatment with PN significantly improved brain antioxidant status by ameliorating the PTZ-induced oxidative stress. Dopamine, cortisol, and acetylcholine esterase activity levels were significantly (p < 0.05) elevated while serotonin and brain-derived neurotrophic factors were reduced in PTZ-induced rats compared with the control. ConclusionThe PN demonstrated neurotransmitter modulatory ability by ameliorating the PTZ-induced neurochemical dysfunction. Findings from this study showed that PN exhibited sedative, antidepressant, and anxiolytic activities in rats.

Smaller Aerobic Granules Significantly Reduce N2O Production by Ammonia-Oxidizing Bacteria: Evidences from Biochemical and Isotopic Analyses.

The mitigation of nitrous oxide (N2O) is of primary significance to offset carbon footprints in aerobic granular sludge (AGS) systems. However, a significant knowledge gap still exists regarding the N2O production mechanism and its pathway contribution. To address this issue, the impact of varying granule sizes, dissolved oxygen (DO), and nitrite (NO2-) levels on N2O production by ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) during nitrification in AGS systems was comprehensively investigated. Biochemical and isotopic experiments revealed that increasing DO or decreasing NO2- levels reduced N2O emission factors (by 13.8 or 19.5%) and production rates (by 0.08 or 0.35 mg/g VSS/h) via weakening the role of the AOB denitrification pathway since increasing DO competed for more electrons required for AOB denitrification. Smaller granules (0.5 mm) preferred to diminish N2O production via enhancing the role of NH2OH pathway (i.e., 59.4-100% in the absence of NO2-), while larger granules (2.0 mm) induced conspicuously higher N2O production via the AOB denitrification pathway (approximately 100% at higher NO2- levels). Nitrifying AGS systems with a unified size of 0.5 mm achieved 42% N2O footprint reduction compared with the system with mixed sizes (0.5-2.0 mm) under optimal conditions (DO = 3.0 mg-O2/L and NO2- = 0 mg-N/L).

Reducing Effects of Whey Protein Hydrolysate on Coloration of Cured Sausages.

Curing produces a characteristic pink color during meat processing through the production of nitrosyl myoglobin (NOMb), which requires nitric oxide (NO). Nitrites and nitrates in coloring agents are crucial NO sources; however, a reducing agent is necessary to facilitate their chemical conversion to NO. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the reducing properties of whey protein hydrolysate (WPH) on the reddening of cured meat products. Cured and cooked sausage models were treated with WPH, which enhanced the reddening of the meat color and increased the a* value in the models compared with that of the controls. Additionally, ethanol-extracted WPH induced Fe3⁺ reduction, lowered oxidation-reduction potential, and decreased nitrite (NO2-) levels. Moreover, ethanol-extracted WPH promoted the formation of NOMb in myoglobin solution. This effect was also observed when ethanol-extracted WPH treated with maleimide was used, implying that certain peptides rather than the thiol group of WPH are involved in promoting NOMb formation. Furthermore, the peptides that decreased NO2- levels were isolated from ethanol-extracted WPH, identified, and synthesized. These synthesized peptides, particularly the FFVAPFPEVFGK peptide, showed NO2--reducing activity. Hence, WPH may promote the coloration of cured meat products through the reducing potential of the peptides contained within.