Total Glucose Concentrations Research Articles

Optimization of Infrared Postharvest Treatment of Barhi Dates Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)

Barhi dates are widely consumed at Khalal maturity stage and preserving the freshness quality of Barhi at this stage is a challenging task as this period is short and the fruits are more perishable. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize the infrared (IR) treatment and storage conditions for preserving the physicochemical, microbial, and bioactive attributes of fresh Barhi dates. The effect of four factors, IR temperature (50, 70, 90, and 110 °C), IR time (1, 2, 3, and 4 min), storage temperature (1, 5, 15, and 25 °C), and storage time (1, 6, 11, 16, and 21 days), on the responses of total soluble solids (TSS), hardness, total color change (ΔE), total viable count (TVC), total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity (DPPH), and glucose content were evaluated following central composite design (CCD). IR temperature, IR time, storage temperature, and storage time significantly affected the physical, microbial, and bioactive attributes of Barhi dates. The optimal conditions for minimizing the physical changes and microbial load and maximizing the bioactive attributes were IR temperature of 50 °C, IR time of 1.2 min, storage temperature of 1 °C, and storage time of 20 days. At the optimum conditions, the values of TSS, hardness, ΔE, TVC, TPC, DPPH, and glucose were 37.22%, 70.17 N, 11.12, 2.9 log CFU/g, 36.1 mg GAE/g, 65.31%, and 25.38 mg/g, respectively and these values were similar to predicted values. In conclusion, this study identified the ideal IR treatment and storage conditions for maintaining the overall quality attributes of Barhi dates during prolonged storage.

Brassinosteroids are involved in volatile compounds biosynthesis related to MdBZR1 in ‘Ruixue’ (Malus × domestica Borkh.) fruit

Aroma is a crucial quality attribute of apple fruit, mainly determined by volatile compounds. However, to our knowledge, the physiological and molecular roles of brassinosteroids (BRs) in volatile compound biosynthesis had not been elucidated. In this study, 24-epibrassinolide (EBR) inhibited fruit firmness and ethylene production and delayed fruit ripening. Total soluble solids, fructose content, glucose, and sucrose content were inhibited by EBR treatment. Most importantly, enzyme activity, volatile compound production, and genes involved in volatiles biosynthesis were suppressed compared with those in the control after EBR treatment. Furthermore, volatile compounds production and biosynthesis gene expressions was decreased by the overexpression of MdBZR1, whereas opposite results were observed when MdBZR1 was silenced. Notably, OE-MdBZR1 calli showed lower volatile compound content than that of the control calli by EBR treatment. Collectively, these results indicate that BR activate MdBZR1 expression, which in turn inhibited volatile compound production.

Effect of in ovo lithium carbonate and citrate injection on embryonic development and total blood glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol concentration

Effect of in ovo lithium carbonate and citrate injection on embryonic development and total blood glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol concentration

Metabolic Response of Malus domestica Borkh cv. Rubin Apple to Canopy Training Treatments in Intensive Orchards

In this study, we used apple tree (Malus domestica Borkh.) cv. Rubin grafts on dwarfing P60 rootstock. Our planting scheme was single rows with 1.25 m between trees and 3.5 m between rows. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of canopy training treatments, as a stress factor, on metabolic response to obtain key information on how to improve physiological behavior and the management of the growth and development of apple trees. The results indicated that all applied canopy training treatments significantly increased the total phenol and total starch contents in apple tree leaves. The total starch increased from 1.5- to almost 3-fold in all treatments, especially during the 2017 harvesting season, compared to the control. The fructose, sorbitol, and ratio of chlorophyll a to b in leaves also significantly increased. Higher precipitation levels induced changes in the accumulation of secondary metabolites in apple tree leaves and fruits during the 2017 harvesting season. The total phenol content significantly increased in apple tree leaves in all treatments, but the fructose content decreased. We observed the same tendencies in total phenolic content and glucose concentration in apple fruits. Therefore, the defense reaction might be a preferred option for apple tree cultivation and the optimization of its growth and development.

Simulated digestion and in vitro fermentation of a polysaccharide from lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) root residue by the human gut microbiota

Lotus root polysaccharide (LRP) is an active water-soluble polysaccharide with average molecular weight of 1.24 × 104. It was composed of (1 → 4)-α-D-glucan backbone with α-D-glycopyranosyl moieties connected to C-6 positions of the glucose residues as side chains approximately every six residues. However, little information is available for its digestion and fermentation characteristics in vitro. The results showed that the levels of reducing sugars were increased slightly, and the molecular weight was also reduced slightly, in simulated gastric and small intestinal juices. During in vitro fermentation, the total sugar, reducing sugar and glucose contents decreased gradually with increasing fermentation time. The molecular of LRP was degraded and to metabolize into a variety the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetic, propionic, and butyric acids. Furthermore, LRP fermentation decreased the pH of the fermentation broth and increased its absorbance. Meanwhile, LRP modulated the gut microbiota by altering the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and increasing the relative abundance of Bifidobacterium. The findings from this study showed that LRP could be developed as potential prebiotic to regulate the composition of gut microbiota, thereby promote the production of SCFAs.

Impact of Mediterranean Diet Food Choices and Physical Activity on Serum Metabolic Profile in Healthy Adolescents: Findings from the DIMENU Project.

Adolescent nutrition and healthy dietary patterns, particularly the Mediterranean diet (MD), have been associated with improved health status and decreased risk of various chronic and metabolic diseases later in life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the Mediterranean food choices on lipid and glycemic metabolic profile in the total population and in adolescents grouped according to their physical activity (PA) levels at the time of recruitment (T0) and after six months from the administration of a personalized Mediterranean meal plan (T1). As part of the DIMENU study, 85 adolescents underwent measurements of lipid and glucose metabolic profile at T0 and T1. Using three positive items from KIDMED test related to the consumption of typical Mediterranean food (olive oil, fish, and nuts) and three negative items on dietary habits (going to fast-food, consuming biscuits, and candies), we categorized adolescents into six sets in which biochemical parameters were analyzed. In the total sample, significant reductions in serum total cholesterol, LDL, and glucose concentrations were observed for all the sets over the study period. Notably, active subjects, who had a better serum metabolic profile, showed significant improvements of glycemic control after 6 month follow up, while in sedentary adolescents and in those performing moderate PA significant reduction in glycemia, total cholesterol, and LDL was found in all sets. In conclusion, adopting the typical Mediterranean food choices led to a significant reduction in glucose and lipid profile in healthy adolescents, thus making the MD and PA a winning combination for health status.

Pine (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) Needle Extract Supplementation Improves Performance, Egg Quality, Serum Parameters, and the Gut Microbiome in Laying Hens.

The effects of Masson pine (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) needle extract (PNE) on gastrointestinal disorders and oxidative stress have been widely investigated using experimental models; however, the functions and mechanisms of these effects in chicken models remain unknown. We investigated the effects of Masson PNE supplementation on performance, egg quality, serum parameters, and the gut microbiome in laying hens. A total of 60 healthy 50-week-old Peking Pink laying hens with similar body conditions and egg production were randomly divided into the control (CON) (0 mg/kg PNE), PNE100 (100 mg/kg PNE), PNE200 (200 mg/kg PNE), and PNE400 (400 mg/kg PNE) groups, with fifteen replicates per treatment and one hen per replicate. Compared with the CON group, egg mass, feed conversion ratios, and yolk weight were significantly increased (p < 0.01) in the PNE100 group. Dietary supplementation of 100 mg/kg PNE increased the serum total protein, albumin, and glucose concentrations (p < 0.01) and decreased the alanine aminotransferase activity (p < 0.05) compared with those of the CONs. Hens in the PNE100 group had reduced serum malondialdehyde levels (p < 0.05) and increased catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities (p < 0.01) compared with those of the CON group. Serum proinflammatory cytokine concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α were lower (p < 0.01) and the IL-10 level was higher (p < 0.01) in the PNE100 group than in the CON group. Serum immunoglobulin (Ig)A, IgG, and IgM concentrations were increased in the PNE100 group (p < 0.01). The relative abundance of Bacteroidetes was increased, while the relative abundances of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were decreased in the PNE100 group. The relative abundances of Vibrio, Shewanella, and Lactobacillus were decreased, while the relative abundances of unclassified_o_Bacteroidales, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, unclassified_f_Rikenellaceae, and Butyricicoccaceae were increased in the PNE100 group compared with those of the CON group. PNE supplementation at 100 mg/kg improved the diversity and structure of the gut microbial composition, production performance, egg quality, and serum parameters of laying hens. The laying hens in this study had good production performance when supplemented with 100 mg/kg PNE.

Physicochemical and sensory quality of dried figs ( Ficus carica L.) as affected by drying method and variety

To improve direct sun drying, small drying tunnel units, elevated above the ground and covered by insect-proof nets, were designed. We investigated the effect of these locally made solar dryers, placed in open air and under plastic greenhouse, on dried fig quality of three local varieties (two San Pedro types and one Smyrna type). The results showed that fruit lightness and yellowness were improved when figs were dried under plastic greenhouse. No significant effects of variety and drying methods were registered for total soluble solids, and glucose and fructose contents. A total of 104 volatile compounds were identified in Tunisian dried figs. Most of volatiles except acetic acid were influenced mostly by variety. The sensory analysis revealed significant differences between drying techniques. Figs dried under plastic tunnel were the most appreciated. Solar dryer under plastic tunnel could be a good alternative for rural farmers to substitute the traditional sun drying techniques. Novelty impact statement This work provides beneficial knowledge for improving the appearance and organoleptic quality of dried figs considering combined effect of variety and drying method. Plastic tunnel dryer is a good alternative for rural farmers to substitute the traditional open air sun drying. This method enhances the quality of products with minimum costs and short duration of dehydration.

Reduction in Serum LDL Cholesterol Using a Nutrient Compendium in Hyperlipidemic Adults Unable or Unwilling to Use Statin Therapy: A Double-Blind Randomized Crossover Clinical Trial

BackgroundMany hyperlipidemic patients prescribed β-hydroxy-β-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) are unable or unwilling to take them. A hedonically acceptable snack-based solution formulated from cholesterol-lowering food ingredients could represent a therapeutic alternative but has not been tested in this population. ObjectivesTo evaluate the effect of snacks containing a compendium of functional bioactives on fasting LDL cholesterol in statin candidates unwilling to use or intolerant to ≥1 statin drug. Secondary outcomes included changes in circulating total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, fasting glucose, insulin, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein concentrations, as well as effects of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on outcome. MethodsThis multicenter, randomized, double-blind, free-living crossover study was composed of 2 regimented phases of 4 wk each, separated by a 4-wk washout. Eighteen men and 36 women, with a mean ± SD age of 49 ± 12 y and mean ± SD LDL cholesterol of 131 ± 32.1 mg/dL, were instructed to ingest a variety of ready-to-eat snacks twice daily as a substitute for something they were consuming already. Other behavior changes were actively discouraged. Treatment products provided ≥5 g fiber, 1000 mg ω-3 (n–3) fatty acids, 1000 mg phytosterols, and 1800 μmol antioxidants per serving. Control products were calorie-matched like-items drawn from the general grocery marketplace. Serum lipids were measured at baseline and the end of each phase and compared using the ANOVA model. Compliance to study foods was confirmed by serum 18:3n–3 concentration assessment. ResultsComparing intervention phase endpoints, LDL cholesterol was reduced a mean ± SD of 8.80 ± 1.69% (P < 0.0001), and TC was reduced a mean ± SD of 5.08 ± 1.12% (P < 0.0001) by treatment foods compared with control foods, whereas effects on other analytes did not differ between treatments. SNPs were not significantly related to outcomes (P ≥ 0.230). Compliance with study foods was 95%. ConclusionsConsumption of hedonically acceptable snacks containing a compendium of cholesterol-lowering bioactive compounds can rapidly and meaningfully reduce LDL cholesterol in adult patients unable or unwilling to take statin drugs. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02341924.

Social Stress during the Estrus or Luteal Phase in Sheep

ABSTRACT In mammals, progesterone and estrogens affect the stress response. The study aimed to compare the physiological and behavioral responses to the social isolation of ewes during the estrus or luteal phase. Estrous and diestrous ewes (n = 10 and 8 respectively) were individually isolated in a novel place for 10 min. Ewes’ behavior was recorded during the test. Cortisol, blood proteins and glucose concentrations, and the skin surface temperature were determined before and after the test. Cortisol increased immediately after the test ended (P = 0.02). Serum total protein (P = 0.02), globulin (P < 0.0001), and plasma glucose (P = 0.006) concentrations were greater in estrus than in the luteal phase. The abdominal skin surface temperature was greater during estrus than during the luteal phase (P = 0.02). Ewes in estrus spent more time standing up immobile than ewes in the luteal phase (P = 0.05). In conclusion, the physiological and behavioral responses changed according to the phase of the estrous cycle. These results highlight the need for future studies focusing on how reproductive status influences the stress response to different management practices in sheep.

High selenium levels associate with reduced risk of mortality and new-onset heart failure: data from PREVEND.

AimTo elucidate the relationship between serum selenium levels and the risk of mortality and new‐onset heart failure (HF) in the general adult population.Methods and resultsSelenium was measured in a Dutch cohort and a retrospective analysis of prospectively assessed data was performed. Main outcome measures were all‐cause mortality and incidence of new‐onset HF separately, and combined as a composite endpoint. Serum selenium was measured in 5973 subjects and mean selenium concentration was 84.6 (±19.5) µg/L. Mean age was 53.6 (±12.1) years and 3103 subjects (52%) were female. Median follow‐up was 8.4 years. Selenium levels associated positively with female sex, higher total cholesterol and glucose concentrations, and associated negatively with incidence of anaemia, iron deficiency, current smoking, increased C‐reactive protein levels, and higher body mass index. Univariate analysis on all subjects showed no association of continuous selenium concentrations, per 10 µg/L increase, with the composite endpoint (hazard ratio [HR] 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.87–1.06, p = 0.407). However, significant interaction with smoking status was observed. In non‐smoking subjects (n = 4288), continuous selenium concentrations were independently associated with reduced mortality risk (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.79–0.96, p = 0.005), lower risk of new‐onset HF (HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.69–0.96, p = 0.017), as well as reduced risk of the composite endpoint (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.79–0.94, p = 0.001). In smoking subjects, no associations were found.ConclusionSerum selenium was independently associated with multiple indicators of the metabolic syndrome. In addition, high selenium levels were independently associated with reduced mortality and new‐onset HF in non‐smokers. Well‐powered interventional studies are necessary to evaluate the potential benefit of repleting selenium, especially in non‐smoking subjects.

Impact of Replacing Different Levels of Panicum maximum in Rabbit Diets on Growth Performance, Hemato-Biochemical Profile, and Histological Responses of Some Internal Organs

There has been an interest in alternative sources in rabbit feeding. Therefore, the current study aimed to estimate the health status, growth performance, hemato-biochemical, and histological picture of some important internal organs in growing Newziland rabbits as a result of replacing different levels of Panicum maximum (PM) in its pelleted diet. A total of 35 weaned rabbits (20 males and 15 females) aged 5 weeks were purchased with an average body weight of 839.7 ± 7.05 g and 771.20 ± 9.19 g for males and females, respectively. Randomly, five equal rabbit groups were formed (7 rabbits in each group). The first group (control) was fed a basal diet without PM. The second, third, fourth, and fifth groups were fed pelleted diets containing PM with a replacing percent of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of clover hay, respectively. All groups were fed ad libitum of pelleted feed for two months. The blood was aspirated individually three times, including at the beginning of the experiment (as zero time), after one month, and at the end of the experiment, respectively. The whole blood was used for the measurement of hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit percentage, erythrocytes, and total leukocyte counts. At the experimental end, in each group, 3 male rabbits were sacrificed and their internal organs including liver, kidney, cecum, and rectum were collected for histopathology. The live body weight was significantly affected by sex where males were heavier than females, also feed conversion ratio, growth rate, and feed intake were significantly affected by feeding on different levels of PM. Blood hemoglobin, hematocrit, and the total leukocytic count had a non-significant effect while the erythrocyte count increased significantly in all experimental groups. There were insignificant changes in plasma total protein, albumin, globulin, ALT, AST, creatinine, and glucose concentrations when different levels of PM were added. furthermore, the plasma total cholesterol and triglycerides were significantly decreased in rabbits fed PM, 75% and 100% when compared with 25%, 50%, and control groups. Finally, replacement PM instead of clover hay in pelleted diets till 75% was found to be the safety and optimum percentage for biological and healthy rabbits.

Proteomics reveals the changes in energy metabolism associated with reproduction in the clam Meretrix petechialis

Because reproduction requires a considerable energy investment that presents metabolic challenges to animals, there is growing scientific interest in the effects of reproduction on metabolism. Here, the proteome of the hepatopancreas from female and male clams (Meretrix petechialis) before and after spawning was obtained using iTRAQ-based proteome analysis. Forty-two DEPs and 37 DEPs were detected in the pre- and post-spawning comparison of females and males, respectively. KEGG pathway analysis was then performed to explore the function of the identified DEPs and the results showed that metabolic process was deeply affected by spawning. Carbohydrate metabolism was weakened after spawning, whereas protein and amino acid metabolism were enhanced. In addition, spawning induced more severe oxidative damage in females than in males, which may hinder muscle function in females. Finally, the total glucose and protein contents briefly increased after spawning and then recovered to the baseline level. Our results illustrate the overall differences and contribute to an improved understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying energy changes in the clams during reproduction.

INFLUENCE OF HEAVY METALS ON ANTIOXIDANT SYSTEM AND BIOCHEMICAL INDEXES IN RATS

The study was undertaken to examine the effect of heavy metals on antioxidant system and biochemical indexes in the organism of rats. The influence of heavy metals on indexes The influence of heavy metals on the indicators of the antioxidant system (activity of the antioxidant system enzymes – glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase) and the processes of lipid peroxidation (content of hydroperoxides and products of thiobarbituric acid) was determined. It is established, that the antioxidant system functions more intensively in blood and liver of rats under the action of heavy metals. The study of enzyme activity showed the activation of the latter under conditions of heavy metal intoxication in 1.5–2.0 times (depending on heavy metal) compared with the control. We found that blood levels of total and direct bilirubin, creatinine, and urea increased in intoxicated rats from all experimental groups compared with intact animals. However, a decrease in the content of albumin, total protein, cholesterol, and triglycerides was also found in all experimental groups, in comparison with intact rats. Under the action of heavy metals, the activity of total α-amylase, lactate dehydrogenase, and glucose concentration increases in blood of rats. According to the results of studies in intoxicated animals compared with the intact group, there was a change in the cation-anion pool, in particular, a tendency to decrease the content of sodium and inorganic phosphorus and increase chlorides, magnesium, calcium, and potassium.

Loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta plasma biochemistry and proteome profile modulation during recovery

The aim of the study was to monitor and analyse injured and diseased loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) plasma proteome profiles and biochemistry parameters during their recovery period in rescue centre within different age and recovery period groups, and determine the potential biomarkers that can be used in diagnostics. The plasma biochemical parameters of total protein and glucose content, accompanied by aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and N-acetyl-cystein-activated creatinine kinase (CK-NAC) are highlighted as valuable and potential biomarkers of turtle's health status and condition. Using high throughput tandem mass tag (TMT)-based proteomic approach we identified 913 plasma proteins, 12 of which shown to be modulated in loggerheads age groups, and identified as a part of (i) platelet degranulation, (ii) neutrophil degranulation, and (iii) innate immune system pathways. The neurofascin (NFASC) is shown to be differentially abundant among all the age groups, and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein 2-like (ORM2) and alpha-1-antitrypsin-like (SERPINA1) proteins were recognized as members of all three above mentioned REACTOME pathways. Furthermore, 29 of plasma proteins were significantly differentially abundant in loggerheads age and recovery period groups. Out of 15 recognized pathways, those proteins were mostly included in three specific REACTOME pathways: (i) post-translational phosphorylation, (ii) regulation of Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF) transport and uptake by Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Proteins (IGFBPs), and (iii) platelet degranulation. The alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) was the only protein which showed statistically significant up-regulation patterns in all loggerhead age groups before release from the rescue centre, and the complement component 3 (C3) protein was the only protein modulated in all recovery period groups. Furthermore, C3 protein takes part in 9; and followed up with apolipoprotein A-I (APOA1) in 7; complement component 4 (C4), complement component 5 (C5) and kininogen-1 (KNG1) in 6 REACTOME pathways. Thereby, those proteins are highlighted and recommended as potential biomarkers of turtle's health status. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD029569. Finally, based on our results, we believe that comprehensive omics approach and routine plasma biochemical analysis, accompanied by proteins of acute phase, acid-base status and immune-response indicator analysis may significantly and reliably improve assessment of captive loggerheads rehabilitation and medication. SignificanceMonitoring and comparison of loggerhead sea turtles (C. caretta) blood plasma biochemistry parameters and plasma proteome profiles in relation to the age, and recovery period pointed out significantly differentially abundant proteins, along with certain biochemical parameter contents as potential biomarkers of turtle's fitness, health status and physiology.

Evaluation of the effect of phenobarbital administration on the biochemistry profile, with a focus on serum liver values, in epileptic cats.

Phenobarbital (PB) is the most common antiseizure drug (ASD) used for the management of feline epilepsy. In dogs, PB is known to cause serum liver enzyme induction and hepatotoxicity, especially after administration long term or in high concentrations. In cats, insufficient evidence is available to draw similar conclusions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of PB administration on the serum biochemistry profile of epileptic cats. As an additional objective, other adverse effects arising, related to PB treatment, were recorded. Medical records of four veterinary centres were retrospectively reviewed for epileptic cats receiving PB treatment. Cats were included if they had a diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy or structural epilepsy; a normal baseline serum biochemistry profile; at least one follow-up serum biochemistry profile; no concurrent disease or had not received medication that could possibly influence liver function or lead to serum liver enzyme induction. Alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase and gamma-glutamyl transferase activities, and total bilirubin, bile acids, glucose, albumin, total protein, urea and creatinine concentrations before and during PB administration were recorded. PB serum concentration was also recorded, when available. Thirty-three cats (24 males, nine females) with a median age of 3 years (range 2 months to 12 years) met the inclusion criteria. Idiopathic or structural epilepsy was diagnosed in 25 (76%) and eight (24%) cats, respectively. The follow-up period ranged from 9 to 62 months. This study found an increase in ALT in three cats, possibly related to a PB serum concentration >30 µg/ml. No statistically significant increase in serum liver enzymes or other evaluated biochemistry parameters was found by comparing pre- and post-treatment parameters. PB administration did not result in hepatic enzyme induction or other biochemical abnormalities in cats. This strengthens the safety profile of PB as an ASD in cats.

Incidence of enteral feeding intolerance and its risk factors in patients with oral and maxillofacial malignancies

To explore the incidence of enteral feeding intolerance and its risk factors in patients with malignant oral and maxillofacial tumors. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 122 patients with malignant oral and maxillofacial tumor admitted in a general hospital for enteral nutrition between March, 2018 and March, 2021. The incidence of intolerance to enteral nutrition was analyzed, and the two groups of patients with and without intolerance were compared for age, gender, height, weight, pathological staging, types of enteral nutrition preparations, clinical treatment (physical hypothermia and nasal delivery), drug usage (sedatives, vasoactive drugs, acid suppressant, potassium preparation, antibiotics and hormones) and biochemical parameters (serum total protein, serum albumin, blood glucose and serum potassium concentration). Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the influencing factors of enteral nutritional feeding intolerance in patients. Of the 122 patients, 52 had enteral feeding intolerance with an incidence rate of 42.6%. Logistic regression analysis showed that potassium preparation (OR=4.125, P=0.027, 95%CI: 1.178-14.444), sedatives (OR=4.125, P=0.000, 95%CI: 2.007-11.765) and hypoproteinemia (OR=3.557, P=0.010, 95%CI: 1.351-9.366) were independent risk factors of feeding intolerance in patients with malignant oral and maxillofacial tumors, while adding dietary fiber was a protective factor (OR= 0.108, P=0.015, 95%CI: 0.018-0.643). The incidence of enteral feeding intolerance is high in patients with malignant oral and maxillofacial tumors. Enteral nutrition preparations with dietary fiber are recommended for these patients. The patients with potassium preparations, sedatives and hypoproteinemia should be closely monitored for enteral feeding intolerance, and timely intervention should be administered to reduce its incidence.

​Effect of Beta-carotene Supplementation on Plasma Carotene Content and Fertility of Lactating Crossbred Sahiwal Cows

Background: Beta-carotene (BETA) is a precursor of retinol (Vitamin A) and positively influenced on reproductive efficiency in cows. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of orally supplementation of beta-carotene on plasma carotene content and fertility rate of lactating crossbred Sahiwal cows. Methods: Twenty-four disease-free lactating crossbred Sahiwal cows with a close date of calving were randomly divided into two homogeneous groups for Control group (CONT; n = 12) and Beta-carotene group: 500 mg/cow/d (BETA; n = 12) from 7 days post partum (dpp) until 105 dpp thereafter on concentrations of beta-carotene and selected protein and energy parameters in plasma were determined. In addition, effects on fertility rate were studied. Result: Beta-carotene concentrations increased in plasma of beta-carotene (BETA-group) supplemented cows compared to control (CONT-group) cows (p less than 0.001). In BETA-group cows, urea concentration in blood plasma decreased significantly compared to cows of CONT-group (p less than 0.001) but did not differ in total protein, albumin, glucose and total cholesterol content in cows of both groups. Occurrence of first post partum estrus decreased (p less than 0.001) in beta-carotene (BETA-group: 74 dpp) cows compared to control (CONT-group: 81 dpp) cows. In this study, it was observed that the overall conception rate was higher (p greater than 0.001) in BETA-group: 83.33% (cows pregnant: 10/12) and lesser in the CONT-group: 50.00% (cows pregnant: 6/12). The results of this study indicated that oral supplementation with beta-carotene increased the concentration of beta-carotene and decreased the concentration of urea in plasma and cows with higher blood plasma beta-carotene content improved fertility over cows with lower blood plasma beta-carotene content.

Promising Antidiabetic and Antimicrobial Agents Based on Fused Pyrimidine Derivatives: Molecular Modeling and Biological Evaluation with Histopathological Effect.

Diabetes is the most common metabolic disorder in both developing and non-developing countries, and a well-recognized global health problem. The WHO anticipates an increase in cases from 171 million in 2000 to 366 million by 2030. In the present study, we focus on the preparation of pyrimidine derivatives as potential antidiabetic and antimicrobial agents. Thein vivoeffect on total serum glucose concentration, cholesterol and antioxidant activity was assessed in adult male albino Wister rats and compared to the reference drug glimperide. Promising results were observed for compound 5. The histopathological study confirms that compound 5 results in significant activity with liver maintenance. The antimicrobial activities were evaluated against several bacterial strains such as Salmonella typhimurium ATCC 25566, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli NRRN 3008, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 10145, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538and fungi such as Rhizopus oligosporus, Mucor miehei and Asperillus niger. Compounds 4 and 5 showed a good inhibition of the bacterial zone compared to the reference drug cephradine. Finally, we suggest protein targets for these drugs based on computational analysis, and infer their activities from their predicted modes of binding using molecular modeling. The molecular modeling for compounds 4 and 5 resulted in improved docking scores and hydrogen bonding. The docking studies are in good agreement with the in vitro and in vivo studies.

The Cardiovascular Health Integrated Lifestyle Diet (CHILD) Lowers LDL-Cholesterol Levels in Brazilian Dyslipidemic Pediatric Patients

Objective To analyze the impact of the CHILD-2 diet on the lipid profile of Brazilian children and adolescents with dyslipidemia. Methods This is a quasi-experimental study, where 149 participants (5–17 years) with mild-to-moderate hypercholesterolemia were divided into two groups (GI: low or normal weight; n = 58 and GII: overweight; n = 91). Both groups underwent the CHILD-2 diet, characterized by 25–30% total fat and less than 7% of low-saturated fat (SF) for 6 months. Changes from baseline in the lipid profile, including Total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, triacylglycerols and glucose concentrations, dietary and anthropometric data were examined at 3 and 6 months. Longitudinal analyses were performed using linear mixed-effects models in SAS. Results Serum LDL-C concentrations reduced over time compared with baseline (Δ = −5.1 mg/dL; p < 0.01), with no difference between groups (p = 0.35). TC concentrations decreased by −2.0 mg/dL (p < 0.01); but no difference was observed between groups. We found no significant changes in body mass index/age Z scores after a dietary intervention compared with baseline in both groups (p = 0.94). Conclusion Despite the modest reduction, our findings confirm that children with dyslipidemia can benefit from the CHILD-2 diet combined with a healthy lifestyle.