Total Activity Research Articles

Effect of sorghum bran addition on antioxidant activities, sensory properties, and in vitro starch digestibility of Chinese southern-style steamed bread.

Chinese steamed bread (CSB) is one of the most important staple foods in China and is also popular in South-East Asia. Developing functional CSB could improve people's resistance to inflammatory and non inflammatory diseases. This work investigated the effect of sorghum bran addition on antioxidant activities, sensory properties, and in vitro starch digestibility of Chinese southern-style steamed bread (CSSB). In this study, the enhanced CSSB with 0-200 g kg-1 of fine black and tannin (sumac) sorghum bran addition was developed. A small change in phenol content and antioxidant activity was observed at various stages in the processing procedure before steaming. Moreover, a high retention of antioxidant phenolics CSSB with sorghum bran addition was observed. Sorghum bran addition significantly increased the total phenol content and antioxidant activity of CSSB by 4.5-10 times, on average, relative to control. Sorghum bran addition significantly also increased the content of resistant starch, and significantly decreased in vitro starch digestibility in CSSB; these effects were likely due to the joint inhibitory effect of tannins and ferulic acid on starch digestibility. Interestingly, the sorghum bran breads scored higher or similar to control in sensory color preference and overall appearance, but lower on most textural and mouthfeel attributes. Sorghum bran addition significantly increased the antioxidant activity of CSSB and significantly decreased starch digestibility. Moreover, the color and appearance properties were maintained or improved. However, the sensorial textural attributes were negatively impacted by the sorghum bran substitutions. Strategies to improve the texture of bran-fortified breads would likely enhance their consumer acceptability. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Abstract Tu044: Cardiac Mitochondrial Dysfunction Induces Region-Specific Mitochondrial Stress Response In The Brain To Adapt Neuronal Changes

Background: The hippocampus and cortex are susceptible to changes in blood supply, metabolites, and oxygenation. However, how disrupted cardiac function affects these critical areas of the brain, leading to the cognitive and neurological consequences of heart failure, remains unclear. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that disrupted cardiac function cross-talks with the brain by inducing region-specific mitochondrial stress responses, leading to adaptive changes. Methods: We utilized cardiac-specific LonP1 knockout (LonP1cKO) mice to induce heart failure within 21 days of birth. Alongside cre- control mice, we assessed cerebral blood flow using Laser speckle contrast imaging, locomotor activity through a comprehensive laboratory animal monitoring system (CLAMS), and gene expression profiles in the hippocampus and cortex by RT-PCR. Student’s ‘t’ test determined statistical significance with a p-value<0.05. Results: At 21 days, LonP1cKO mice demonstrated a significant (p<0.0001) reduction in cerebral blood flow (587.1±33.68, n=7) compared to the control (1034±31.26, n=5). Additionally, there were notable decreases in both X and Y-axis ambulatory and total locomotor activities in LonP1cKO mice [XAMB (100.3±6.6 vs 224±13.6 n=16), YAMB) (67.9±4.7 vs 150±8.5 n=16), XTOT (351.8±18.1 vs 534.4±26.3 n=16) and YTOT (190.7±9.6 vs 354.9±17.07 n=16). RT-PCR analysis revealed significant upregulation of genes related to hypoxia and cellular stress (Hif1a, FGf2, Atf6), mitochondrial biogenesis (mtDNA, Tfam, mt-COI, mt-COII), mitochondrial stress response proteases (LonP1, Afg3l2, Spg7, Yme1l1), and downregulation in neurotrophic factors (Bdnf, Ngf, Gfap) in the hippocampus and cortex. Conclusion: The study highlights that cardiac dysfunction in LonP1cKO mice leads to mitochondrial and cellular stress response in the brain to adapt neuronal changes, suggesting a critical link between cardiac health and brain function regulated through mitochondrial stress response pathways.

Prevalence and Correlates of Adherence to the Global Total Physical Activity Guideline Based on Step Counting Among 3- to 4-Year-Olds: Evidence From SUNRISE Pilot Studies From 17 Countries.

There is limited evidence from globally diverse samples on the prevalence and correlates of meeting the global guideline of 180minutes per day of total physical activity (TPA) among 3- to 4-year-olds. Cross-sectional study involving 797 (49.2% girls) 3- to 4-year-olds from 17 middle- and high-income countries who participated in the pilot phases 1 and 2 of the SUNRISE International Study of Movement Behaviours in the Early Years. Daily step count was measured using thigh-worn activPAL accelerometers. Children wore the accelerometers for at least one 24-hour period. Children were categorized as meeting the TPA guideline based on achieving ≥11,500 steps per day. Descriptive analyses were conducted to describe the proportion of meeting the TPA guideline for the overall sample and each of the sociodemographic variables, and 95% CIs were calculated. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the sociodemographic correlates of meeting the TPA guideline. Mean daily step count was 10,295 steps per day (SD = 4084). Approximately one-third of the sample (30.9%, 95% CI, 27.6-34.2) met the TPA guideline. The proportion meeting the guideline was significantly lower among girls (adjusted OR [aOR] = 0.70, 95% CI, 0.51-0.96) and 4-year-olds (aOR = 0.50, 95% CI, 0.34-0.75) and higher among rural residents (aOR = 1.78, 95% CI, 1.27-2.49) and those from lower middle-income countries (aOR = 1.35, 95% CI, 0.89-2.04). The findings suggest that a minority of children might meet the TPA guideline globally, and the risk of not meeting the guideline differed by sociodemographic indicators. These findings suggest the need for more surveillance of TPA in young children globally and, possibly, interventions to improve childhood health and development.

Evolving spectrum of adenosine deaminase (ADA) deficiency: Assessing genotype pathogenicity according to expressed ADA activity of 46 variants

Deficiency of adenosine deaminase (ADA or ADA1) has broad clinical and genetic heterogeneity. Screening techniques can identify asymptomatic infants whose phenotype and prognosis are indeterminate, and who may carry ADA variants of unknown significance. We systematically assessed the pathogenic potential of rare ADA missense variants to better define the relationship of genotype to red blood cell (RBC) total deoxyadenosine nucleotide (dAXP) content and to phenotype. We expressed 46 ADA missense variants in the ADA-deficient SØ3834 strain of Escherichia coli and defined genotype categories (GCs) ranked I to IV by increasing expressed ADA activity. We assessed relationships among GC rank, RBC dAXP, and phenotype in 58 reference patients with 50 different genotypes. We used our GC ranking system to benchmark AlphaMissense for predicting variant pathogenicity, and we used a minigene assay to identify exonic splicing variants in ADA exon 9. The 46 missense variants expressed ∼0.001% to ∼70% of wild-type ADA activity (40% had <0.05% of wild-type ADA activity and 50% expressed >1%). RBC dAXP ranged from undetectable to >75% of total adenine nucleotides and correlated well with phenotype. Both RBC dAXP and clinical severity were inversely related to total ADA activity expressed by both inherited variants. Our GC scoring system performed better than AlphaMissense in assessing variant pathogenicity, particularly for less deleterious variants. For ADA deficiency, pathogenicity is a continuum and conditional, depending on the total ADA activity contributed by both inherited variants as indicated by GC rank. However, in patients with indeterminate phenotype identified by screening, RBC dAXP measured at diagnosis may have greater prognostic value than GC rank.

The impact of exercise training on muscle sympathetic nerve activity: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the effects of exercise training on muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) in humans. Studies included exercise interventions [randomized controlled trials (RCTs), nonrandomized controlled trials (non-RCTs), or pre-to-post intervention] that reported on adults (≥18 yr) where MSNA was directly assessed using microneurography, and relevant outcomes were assessed [MSNA (total activity, burst frequency, burst incidence, amplitude), heart rate, blood pressure (systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, or mean blood pressure), and aerobic capacity (maximal or peak oxygen consumption)]. Forty intervention studies (n = 1,253 individuals) were included. RCTs of exercise compared with no exercise illustrated that those randomized to the exercise intervention had a significant reduction in MSNA burst frequency and incidence compared with controls. This reduction in burst frequency was not different between individuals with cardiovascular disease compared with those without. However, the reduction in burst incidence was greater in those with cardiovascular disease [9 RCTs studies, n = 234, mean difference (MD) -21.08 bursts/100 hbs; 95% confidence interval (CI) -16.51, -25.66; I2 = 63%] compared with those without (6 RCTs, n = 192, MD -10.92 bursts/100 hbs; 95% CI -4.12, -17.73; I2 = 76%). Meta-regression analyses demonstrated a dose-response relationship where individuals with higher burst frequency and incidence preintervention had a greater reduction in values post-intervention. These findings suggest that exercise training reduces muscle sympathetic nerve activity, which may be valuable for improving cardiovascular health.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests exercise training reduces muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), which may be valuable for improving cardiovascular health. The reduction in burst incidence was greater among individuals with cardiovascular disease when compared with those without; exercise training may be particularly beneficial for individuals with cardiovascular disease. Meta-regression analyses demonstrated a dose-response relationship, where individuals with higher sympathetic activity preintervention had greater reductions in sympathetic activity post-intervention.

Cassava bagasse starch and oregano essential oil as a potential active food packaging material: A physicochemical, thermal, mechanical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial study

This research evaluates the use of cassava bagasse starch and oregano essential oil (OEO) in an active film. For comparison, films of cassava starch (CS) and cassava bagasse starch (BS) were prepared with OEO at 1, 2, and 3 %. Physical, thermal, mechanical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties were determined. BS films presented higher thickness, WVP, ΔE, modulus of elasticity, and maximum stress, but lower strain at break compared to CS films. Adding OEO into the films increased their thickness, moisture, solubility, WVP and strain at break. However, maximum stress, modulus of elasticity, and Tdmax decreased. The CS films added with 3 % of OEO showed higher WVP (6.32 × 10−14 kg m/m2.s.Pa), intermediate solubility of 39 % and low maximum stress (0.19 MPa) while the BS film with 3 % of OEO presented 5.73 × 10−14 kg m/m2.s.Pa, 30 % and 0.39 MPa, respectively. The increase from 1 % to 3 % of OEO increased the total phenolic compound content and antioxidant activity of the films by 1.3-fold and 3.7-fold, respectively. The incorporation of 3 % OEO in the films inhibited the growth of S. aureus and E. coli. Therefore, BS and OEO films offer a promising solution as biodegradable active food packaging, providing a more sustainable alternative to traditional non-biodegradable plastic packaging.

Nutritional Composition of Post-Catastrophic Foods.

In addition to current challenges in food production arising from climate change, soil salinization, drought, flooding, and human-caused disruption, abrupt sunlight reduction scenarios (ASRS), e.g., a nuclear winter, supervolcano eruption, or large asteroid or comet strike, are catastrophes that would severely disrupt the global food supply and decimate normal agricultural practices. In such global catastrophes, teragrams of particulate matter, such as aerosols of soot, dust, and sulfates, would be injected into the stratosphere and block sunlight for multiple years. The reduction of incident sunlight would cause a decrease in temperature and precipitation and major shifts to climate patterns leading to devastating reductions in agricultural production of traditional food crops. To survive a catastrophic ASRS or endure current and future disasters and famines, humans might need to rely on post-catastrophic foods, or those that could be foraged, grown, or produced under the new climate conditions to supplement reduced availability of traditional foods. These foods have sometimes been referred to as emergency, alternate, or resilient foods in the literature. While there is a growing body of work that summarizes potential post-catastrophic foods and their nutritional profiles based on existing data in the literature, this article documents a list of protocols to experimentally determine fundamental nutritional properties of post-catastrophic foods that can be used to assess the relative contributions of those foods to a balanced human diet that meets established nutritional requirements while avoiding toxic levels of nutrients. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Total digestible glucans Basic Protocol 2: Apparent protein digestibility Basic Protocol 3: Vitamins B1, B3, B9, C, and D2 by HPLC Basic Protocol 4: Total antioxidant activity (DPPH-scavenging activity) Basic Protocol 5: Total phenolic compounds (Folin-Ciocalteu reagent method) Basic Protocol 6: Mineral content by ICP-OES.

Effect of Seed Hardening and Foliar Application of Growth Substances on Morpho-biochemical Parameters of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Design with three replications was used for an experiment that included seed hardening as one factor with nine levels while foliar spray of Chlorocholine Chloride @500 mg/L as another factor with two levels. Leaf dry weight and stem dry were significantly maximum with GA3-150 mg/L seed hardening treatment. Meanwhile, total dry weight, protein content, oil content and anti-oxidant activity were found significantly higher in seed hardening with GA3-100 mg/L while these morphological parameters were found significantly positive result after application of foliar spray of CCC @500 mg/L as compared to control which helps to increases the quality of groundnut.

Extraction of Total Phenol and Antioxidant Activity of Butterfly Pea Flower (Clitoria ternatea L.) Extracts by Ultrasound-Assisted and Maceration Extraction

Butterfly pea flower, also known as Asian pigeon wings, has been widely used as an ingredient in food and medicine due to the high content of various types of antioxidants that are beneficial to health. One of the technologies used to extract the bioactive compound from the plant is the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different extraction times from 10 min to 30 min and types of solvent: water, aqueous methanol and aqueous ethanol on the phenolic compound and antioxidant activity present in the butterfly pea flower. The total phenolic content (TPC) was determined using Folin-Ciocalteu assay while the antioxidant was assessed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay. Based on this study, the optimal condition to increase the extract yield from butterfly pea flower was found to be at a 20-min sonication, while the highest TPC and antioxidant activity were achieved at a 30-min sonication using aqueous methanol. Compared with maceration, UAE demonstrated better results in percentage yield, TPC and antioxidant activity when using aqueous methanol. This approach indicated that UAE is an efficient technique for obtaining bioactive compounds from butterfly pea flowers.

Impact of Processing on the Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity of Sorghum bicolor L. Moench.

Sorghum, a cereal grain rich in nutrients, is a major source of phenolic compounds that can be altered by different processes, thereby modulating their phenolic content and antioxidant properties. Previous studies have characterised phenolic compounds from pigmented and non-pigmented varieties. However, the impact of processing via the cooking and fermentation of these varieties remains unknown. Wholegrain flour samples of Liberty (WhiteLi1 and WhiteLi2), Bazley (RedBa1 and RedBa2), Buster (RedBu1 and RedBu2), Shawaya black (BlackSb), and Shawaya short black 1 (BlackSs) were cooked, fermented, or both then extracted using acidified acetone. The polyphenol profiles were analysed using a UHPLC-Online ABTS and QTOF LC-MS system. The results demonstrated that combining the fermentation and cooking of the BlackSs and BlackSb varieties led to a significant increase (p < 0.05) in total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activities, as determined through DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS assays. The 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activity of WhiteLi1, BlackSb, RedBu2, and BlackSs increased by 46%, 32%, 25%, and 10%, respectively, post fermentation and cooking. Conversely, fermentation only or cooking generally resulted in lower phenolic content and antioxidant levels than when samples were fully processed compared to raw. Notably, most of the detected antioxidant peaks (53 phenolic compounds) were only detected in fermented and cooked black and red pericarp varieties. The phenolic compounds with the highest antioxidant activities in pigmented sorghum included 3-aminobenzoic acid, 4-acetylburtyic acid, malic acid, caffeic acid, and luteolin derivative. Furthermore, the growing location of Bellata, NSW, showed more detectable phenolic compounds following processing compared to Croppa Creek, NSW. This study demonstrates that sorghum processing releases previously inaccessible polyphenols, making them available for human consumption and potentially providing added health-promoting properties.

Cyclotriphosphazenes: Pre-harvest foliar applications improve antioxidant activity by increasing phenolic compounds in Lavandula angustifolia Mill.

The versatile chemical structures of cyclotriphosphazenes (CTPs) and their derivatives make them useful for various applications, including serving as plant nutrients to enhance the production of bioactive compounds. Therefore, the effects of 30 and 60 mg/L concentrations of CTPs (Compound 4 and 5) sprayed foliar at two different stages (pre-flowering stage and full-flowering stage) on total flavonoids and phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and accumulation of phenolics in lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) were investigated. Compounds 4 and 5 were purified by using column chromatography. The structures of the compounds were verified using mass, 1H, 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy methods. The highest total phenolic content and antioxidant activity were achieved with Compound 5 (60 mg/L) treatment by using Folin-Ciocalteu and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) tests. The phenolic profile was determined by using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Compound 4 treatment yielded a higher level of increase in total flavonoids, protocatechuic aldehyde, protocatechuic, caffeic acid, 4-OH benzoic, and salicylic acid, whereas Compound 5 treatment yielded a higher level of increase in vanillic, p-coumaric, ferulic, and rosmarinic acids. CTPs applied during the full-flowering stage resulted in significant increases, such as an 8.7-fold rise in protocatechuic acid, a 4.3-fold increase in protocatechuic aldehyde, and an 8.4-fold surge in caffeic acid. The caffeic acid was strongly and positively correlated with the 4-OH benzoic acid (,834**), vanillic acid (,955**), p-coumaric acid (,670**), and rosmarinic acid (,669**). The results showed that using a suitable cyclotriphosphazene compound(s) and selecting a suitable pre-harvest application time can significantly enhance and optimize the levels of phenolics.

Cortical Acetylcholine Response to Deep Brain Stimulation of the Basal Forebrain.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS), the direct electrical stimulation of neuronal tissue in the basal forebrain to enhance release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, is under consideration as a method to improve executive function in patients with dementia. While some small studies indicate a positive response in the clinical setting, the relationship between DBS and acetylcholine pharmacokinetics is incompletely understood. We examined the cortical acetylcholine response to different stimulation parameters of the basal forebrain. 2-photon imaging was combined with deep brain stimulation. Stimulating electrodes were implanted in the subpallidal basal forebrain, and the ipsilateral somatosensory cortex was imaged. Acetylcholine activity was determined using the GRABACh-3.0 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor sensor, and blood vessels were imaged with Texas red. Experiments manipulating pulse train frequency demonstrated that integrated acetylcholine induced fluorescence was insensitive to frequency, and that peak levels were achieved with frequencies from 60 to 130 Hz. Altering pulse train length indicated that longer stimulation resulted in higher peaks and more activation with sublinear summation. The acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil increased the peak response to 10s of stimulation at 60Hz, and the integrated response increased 57% with the 2 mg/kg dose, and 126% with the 4 mg/kg dose. Acetylcholine levels returned to baseline with a time constant of 14 to 18 seconds in all experiments. These data demonstrate that acetylcholine receptor activation is insensitive to frequency between 60 and 130 Hz. High peak responses are achieved with up to 900 pulses. Donepezil increases total acetylcholine receptor activation associated with DBS but did not change temporal kinetics. The long time constants observed in the cerebral cortex add to the evidence supporting volume in addition to synaptic transmission.

Health Locus of Control and Physical Activity in Liver Transplant Recipients.

Health locus of controlhas the potential to influence health behavior among individuals with chronic diseases. However, little is known regarding the relationship between locus of control and physical activity in transplant recipients. The aim of the study was to investigate health locus of control and physical activity in liver transplant recipients. Seventy-six liver transplant recipients were enrolled. The Multidimensional Health Locus of Control - Form C, including internal, chance, doctors, and powerful others subdimensions, was used to evaluate the health locus of control. Physical activity was assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire - Short Form. The median internal health locus of control score was 28.54. Thirty-six participants had low, 35 participants had moderate, and five participants had high physical activity. Internal health locus of control was higher in patients having moderate activity compared to patients with low activity (p=0.04). "Doctors" subdimension of health locus of control was negatively correlated with walking (r=-0.38, p=0.02) and total activity scores among patients with low activity (r=-0.37, p=0.02). Liver transplant recipients with moderate activity present higher internal health locus of control scores, suggesting a possible influence of physically active behavior on the beliefs of one's own control over disease management. As the activity level increases, the belief that health outcomes are largely the responsibility of health professionals decreases among liver transplant recipients with low activity. Promoting physical activity will help develop the control of one's own actions on health after liver transplantation.

Assessing the Effect of Fe2O3 Nanoparticles on Catalase Activity in Patients with Chronic Periodontitis: In Vitro study and Molecular Docking

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and underlying bone. It is primarily caused by a bacterial infection resulting from poor oral hygiene practices. The main objectives of the current study were to synthesize iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3-NPs) and their characteristics were analyzed through UV, SEM, and X-ray analysis. Additionally, the dispersion of the synthesized NPs was investigated using UV and TEM techniques. The study also aimed to assess the kinetic behavior and the impact of Fe2O3-NPs on catalase activity in the saliva of the patient and control groups. The findings revealed a significant increase in catalase activity (p&gt;0.05) in both serum and saliva of all patient groups compared to the control group. The UV-visible spectrum shows that the absorption peaks for synthesized α- and γ-iron oxide nanoparticles was at 225 nm. According to the SEM image analysis, the primary particle size of the nano-particles is approximately 26.8 nm. The X-ray diffraction results indicate that the Fe2O3-NPs range in size from 14 nm to 26 nm. UV and TEM study conclude that water a suitable solvent for Fe2O3-NPs dispersion on kinetic study of catalase (CAT) activity. The kinetic data cleared that the α-Fe2O3-NPs have an inhibitory effect for the total activity of salivary CAT in the samples of both healthy and patients with chronic periodontitis. Lineweaver–Burk graph showed that (α-Fe2O3) inhibit catalase by un comp. inhibition. γ-Fe2O3-NPs inhibited total salivary CAT activity in healthy and patients with chronic periodontitis samples. Lineweaver –Burk graph showed that (γ-Fe2O3) inhibit catalase by uncompetitive inhibition.

PET quantification performance of the oversize-volume-of-interest approach in the context of tumour dosimetry in radionuclide therapy planning

Objective. The partial-volume effect (PVE) is an important factor impairing tumour quantification in molecular imaging. The commonly used contour-volume-of-interest (contour-VOI) approach to correct for this effect employs phantom-based recovery coefficients. Applying oversize-VOIs could offer superior quantification accuracy in small lesions. The oversize-VOI approach uses a large oversize volume to determine the total tumour activity after applying a background correction. Aims of this study were to provide a procedure for the application of the oversize-VOI approach and to compare its performance to the contour-VOI approach in PET imaging. Approach. A sphere tumour model was simulated to determine the oversize diameter that contained 90%, 95%, and 98% of the total activity as a function of the tumour size. Experimental investigations involving phantom and clinical data were conducted on a digital PET/CT scanner. In the phantom investigation, 12 spherical tumour inserts (diameters ranging from 3.7 to 37.4 mm) containing 18F-solution were used. The accuracy of the contour- and oversize-VOI approach was evaluated for different signal-to-background ratios (20–3). Clinically, both approaches were applied on PET/CT images acquired with 18F-labelled prostate-specific membrane antigen in prostate cancer patients. Main results. From the tumour model, we deduced that an oversize-VOI of two PET spatial resolutions larger than the physical lesion diameter contains at least 98% of the total activity for lesions with diameters down to one PET spatial resolution, while minimizing the background contribution. Both approaches were robust against varying phantom and clinical imaging conditions. Performance of the oversize-VOI approach was favorable for lesions below 10 mm in diameter, whereas the contour-VOI approach was slightly more accurate for sizes above 10 mm. Significance. The oversize-VOI approach facilitates image quantification of small tumours. It is simple and effective to correct for the PVE and may be used in pre-therapeutic (small) tumour dosimetry.

Associations of Physical Activity Engagement with Cerebral Amyloid-β and Tau from Midlife.

Higher midlife physical activity engagement has been associated with lower dementia risk in late life. However, the underlying mechanisms contributing to the protective effect remain unclear. The goal of the current study was to evaluate the associations of physical activity with cerebral amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau in a predominately middle-aged community-based cohort, as well as to explore whether the associations differ by sex or age. Participants from the Framingham Heart Study underwent 11C-Pittsburgh Compound B amyloid and 18F-Flortaucipir tau positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. Total physical activity levels were evaluated by self-report using the Physical Activity Index (PAI). Cross-sectional associations between total PAI with regional Aβ and tau PET retention were evaluated using linear regression models adjusted for demographic and cardiovascular risk factors. Interactions with sex and age group were examined and stratified analyses were performed when significant. FDR-correction for multiple comparisons was applied. The sample included 354 participants (mean age 53±8 years, 51% female). Higher total PAI scores were associated with lower entorhinal cortex tau PET binding (β(SE) = -0.021(0.008), p = 0.049). There were significant interactions with sex. In men alone, total PAI inversely associated with entorhinal cortex (β(SE) = -0.035(0.009), p = 0.001), inferior temporal (β(SE) = -0.029(0.010), p = 0.012), and rhinal cortex tau(β(SE) = -0.033(0.010), p = 0.002). The results suggest that higher midlife physical activity engagement may confer resistance to tau pathology. However, the effects may vary based on sex, highlighting the importance of better understanding and tailoring lifestyle interventions to address sex disparities.

Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activity of Cornus mas L. and Crataegus monogyna Fruit Extracts.

The present study evaluated three green extraction methods, accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), and laser irradiation extraction (LE), for the polyphenolic compounds and vitamin C extraction of Cornus mas L. and Crataegus monogyna fruit extracts. The polyphenols and vitamin C of extracts were quantified using HPLC-DAD, and the total phenolic content, flavonoid content, antioxidant activity (DPPH and reducing power), and antidiabetic activity were also studied. The antidiabetic activity was examined by the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, and in vitro on a beta TC cell line (β-TC-6). The results showed significant differentiation in the extraction yield between the methods used, with the ASE and LE presenting the highest values. The C. mas fruit extract obtained by ASE exhibited the best antioxidant activity, reaching an IC50 value of 31.82 ± 0.10 µg/mL in the DPPH assay and 33.95 ± 0.20 µg/mL in the reducing power assay. The C. mas fruit extracts obtained by ASE and LE also have the highest inhibitory activity on enzymes associated with metabolic disorders: α-amylase (IC50 = 0.44 ± 0.02 µg/mL for the extract obtained by ASE, and 0.11 ± 0.01 µg/mL for the extract obtained by LE at combined wavelengths of 1270 + 1550 nm) and α-glucosidase (IC50 of 77.1 ± 3.1 µg/mL for the extract obtained by ASE, and 98.2 ± 4.7 µg/mL for the extract obtained by LE at combined wavelengths of 1270 + 1550 nm). The evaluation of in vitro antidiabetic activity demonstrated that the treatment with C. mas and C. monogyna fruit extracts obtained using ASE stimulated the insulin secretion of β-TC-6 cells, both under normal conditions and hyperglycemic conditions, as well. All results suggest that C. mas and C. monogyna fruit extracts are good sources of bioactive molecules with antioxidant and antidiabetic activity.

Chitosan and its Nanoform Regulates Physiological Processes and Antioxidant Mechanisms to Improve Drought Stress Tolerance of Vicia faba Plant

Purpose: Drought stress is an important challenge to global food security and agricultural output. Dramatic and quick climate change has made the problem worse. It caused unexpected impacts on the growth, development, and yield of different plants. Hence, the ultimate yield does not fulfill the required demand. Understanding the biochemical, ecological, and physiological reactions to these pressures is essential for improved management. Chitosan applications have a wide prospect of addressing abiotic issues. Moreover, chitosan and chitosan nanoparticles have a positive impact on increasing plant tolerance to abiotic stress, like drought stress. The current research investigated the consequences of drought stress on the morpho-physiological and biochemical parameters of Vicia faba plants, a comparison of chitosan and chitosan nanoparticles, and their ameliorating capacity towards drought stress. Methods: A pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the beneficial role of either chitosan (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 gL− 1) or chitosan NPs (10, 20, and 30 mgL− 1) in inducing the Vicia faba tolerance to drought stress (60% water field capacity). Results: Drought stress significantly affected vegetative growth parameters of the shoot system, photosynthetic pigments, and indole acetic acid, accompanied by significant increases in vegetative growth parameters of the root system, some chemical composition of dry leaf tissues (total soluble sugar, soluble protein, proline, phenolic compound, glutathione, α tocopherol), hydrogen peroxide, malonialdehyde, lipoxygenase, and antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase). All applied treatments. chitosan and chitosan nanoparticles, at all concentrations, improved plant tolerance to drought stress via increasing vegetative growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments, indole acetic acid, total soluble sugar, soluble protein, proline, phenolic compound, glutathione, α tocopherol, and antioxidant enzyme activities, accompanied by decreases in hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, and lipoxygenase enzyme. It is worthy to mention that 20 mgL− 1 chitosan nanoparticles was the most optimal treatment either under well water conditions (90% water field capacity) or drought stress conditions (60% water field capacity). Moreover, it is obvious from these results that the response of bean plants grown under well watered conditions was more pronounced than that of those plants grown under drought stress conditions to 20 mgL− 1 chitosan nanoparticles. Conclusions: Hence, it can be concluded that chitosan and chitosan nanoparticles can mitigate the negative impacts of drought stress by improving the photosybthetic pigments, endogenous indole acetic acid, and osmolyte contents, as well as the non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant compounds of the Vicia faba plant.

Storage quality assessment of a sheet snack produced from liang leaves (Gnetum gnemon var. tenerum)

This study investigates a novel leaf sheet snack from liang, an indigenous vegetable in Southern Thailand. The prepared snack has high protein, fiber, calcium, and vitamins A and B2. Storage conditions and packaging impact its shelf life. Based on the calculation, laminated aluminum foil extended shelf life to 1 year at 30°C and relative humidity (RH) of 60%. Moisture absorption during storage led to physicochemical changes, including reduced vitamin content, while total polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity remained stable. Microbiological quality was acceptable over a period of 12 weeks but high RH during storage deteriorated sensory attributes. Liang leaves showed promise of being a functional food ingredient.

House dust mite-induced asthma exacerbates Alzheimer’s disease changes in the brain of the AppNL-G-F mouse model of disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques, neuroinflammation, and neuronal death. Besides aging, various comorbidities increase the risk of AD, including obesity, diabetes, and allergic asthma. Epidemiological studies have reported a 2.17-fold higher risk of dementia in asthmatic patients. However, the molecular mechanism(s) underlying this asthma-associated AD exacerbation is unknown. This study was designed to explore house dust mite (HDM)-induced asthma effects on AD-related brain changes using the AppNL-G-F transgenic mouse model of disease. Male and female 8–9 months old C57BL/6J wild type and AppNL-G-F mice were exposed to no treatment, saline sham, or HDM extract every alternate day for 16 weeks for comparison across genotypes and treatment. Mice were euthanized at the end of the experiment, and broncho-alveolar lavage fluid (BALF), blood, lungs, and brains were collected. BALF was used to quantify immune cell phenotype, cytokine levels, total protein content, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, and total IgE. Lungs were sectioned and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Alcian blue, and Masson’s trichrome. Serum levels of cytokines and soluble Aβ1-40/42 were quantified. Brains were sectioned and immunostained for Aβ, GFAP, CD68, and collagen IV. Finally, frozen hippocampi and temporal cortices were used to perform Aβ ELISAs and cytokine arrays, respectively. HDM exposure led to increased levels of inflammatory cells, cytokines, total protein content, LDH activity, and total IgE in the BALF, as well as increased pulmonary mucus and collagen staining in both sexes and genotypes. Levels of serum cytokines increased in all HDM-exposed groups. Serum from the AppNL-G-F HDM-induced asthma group also had significantly increased soluble Aβ1-42 levels in both sexes. In agreement with this peripheral change, hippocampi from asthma-induced male and female AppNL-G-F mice demonstrated elevated Aβ plaque load and increased soluble Aβ 1–40/42 and insoluble Aβ 1–40 levels. HDM exposure also increased astrogliosis and microgliosis in both sexes of AppNL-G-F mice, as indicated by GFAP and CD68 immunoreactivity, respectively. Additionally, HDM exposure elevated cortical levels of several cytokines in both sexes and genotypes. Finally, HDM-exposed groups also showed a disturbed blood–brain-barrier (BBB) integrity in the hippocampus of AppNL-G-F mice, as indicated by decreased collagen IV immunoreactivity. HDM exposure was responsible for an asthma-like condition in the lungs that exacerbated Aβ pathology, astrogliosis, microgliosis, and cytokine changes in the brains of male and female AppNL-G-F mice that correlated with reduced BBB integrity. Defining mechanisms of asthma effects on the brain may identify novel therapeutic targets for asthma and AD.