Total Protein Content Research Articles

Comparison of the Lipid Composition of Milk Fat Globules in Goat (Capra hircus) Milk during Different Lactations and Human Milk.

Goat milk is considered the optimal substitute for human milk and is characterized by variations in the lipid composition of its fat globules across lactation phases. Therefore, the objective of this study was to thoroughly analyze the differences between goat milk during different lactations and human milk, aiming to offer scientific guidance for the production of functional dairy products. Compared with transitional and mature milk, the findings indicated that the total membrane protein content in goat colostrum exhibited greater similarity to that found in human milk. Additionally, goat milk exhibited higher milk fat globule size, as well as a higher total lipid and protein content than human milk. A total of 1461 lipid molecules across 61 subclasses were identified in goat milk and human milk. The contents of glycerides and glycerophospholipids were higher in goat colostrum, whereas sphingolipids and fatty acids were more abundant in human milk. Meanwhile, the compositions of lipid subclasses were inconsistent. There were 584 differentially expressed lipids identified between human and goat milk, including 47 subclasses that were primarily involved in the metabolism of glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and triglycerides. In summary, for both the membrane protein and the lipid composition, there were differences between the milk of different goat lactations and human milk.

Effect of nanoparticles on morphological parameters of wheat

This work is devoted to studying the features of the generation of metal nanoparticles (NPs) by underwater discharges and their use in the technology of growing grain crops. The purpose of the study is to use the latest nano-containing preparations based on NPs of biofunctional metals, which will allow the introduction of modern technologies and technological processes for environmentally friendly crop production while simultaneously increasing the quality indicators of the final wheat harvest. To obtain NPs, metals of the biogenic group were chosen, the content of which in known agrochemical preparations is at least 0.01%. Metal NPs were obtained in discharge chambers filled with deionized water. As a result of underwater electric spark discharges, metal colloids were obtained as a preparative form of nanomaterials for further use and processing of wheat crops. To carry out the certification of NPs by the methods of electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and X-ray structural analysis, the metal phase of the colloidal solutions was separated from the dispersion medium by drying. We determined the composition, structure, and average size of the target NPs. A complex preparation was studied, the composition of which included metal NPs, in particular Fe − 1800 ppm; Cu − 400 ppm; Zn − 1000 ppm; Mn − 800 ppm. Testing of the drug was carried out in field conditions during the cultivation of winter wheat at various stages of organogenesis. The application rate of the drug was 1–1.5 L/ha, accordingly, 1.0–1.5 L of the drug was diluted in 250 L of water. Foliar treatment of wheat plants was carried out. The analysis of grain quality indicators showed a 30% increase in the total protein content and a more than two-fold increase in gluten, which indicates the extraordinary prospects of using the obtained preparations.

Effects of organophosphates on precision-cut kidney slices

Organophosphate (OP) poisoning, both accidental and with suicidal intent, is a global medical challenge. While the primary toxicity of these pesticides is based on the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), case reports describe patients developing OP-mediated renal insufficiency. We set out to investigate possible pathomechanisms utilizing rat precision-cut kidney slices (PCKS). Depending on the method of investigation, PCKS were observed for a maximum of 10 days. PCKS exposed to OP compounds (malaoxon, malathion, paraoxon, parathion) showed a dose-dependent loss of viability and a reduction of total protein content over the course of 10 days. A concentration of 500 µM OP showed the most differences between OP compounds. After two days of incubation parathion showed a significantly lower level of viability than malathion. The respective effects of paraoxon and malaoxon were not significantly different from the control. However, effects of OP were only observed in concentrations exceeding those that were needed to achieve significant AChE inhibition in rat kidney tissue. In addition, we observed histological changes, without inducing LDH leakage. Overall, results suggest that OP exert effects in kidney tissue, that exceed those expected from the sole inhibition of AChE and vary between compounds. Without signs of necrosis, findings call for studies that address other possible pathomechanisms, including inflammatory response, oxidative stress or activation of apoptosis to further understand the nephrotoxicity of OP compounds. Monitoring oxon concentration over time, we demonstrated reduced enzyme-inhibiting properties in the presence of PCKS, suggesting interactions between OP compound and kidney tissue.

#1841 Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) induces the formation of endothelial extracellular vesicles

Abstract Background and Aims Endothelial dysfunction caused by the accumulation of uremic toxins is an important contributor to the development of cardiovascular disease in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The uremic toxin trimethylamine n-oxide (TMAO) is associated with oxidative stress, vascular calcification, and inflammation, triggering the release of several proinflammatory molecules and Extracellular Vesicles (EVs). Clinical studies have shown that patients with CKD have high levels of circulating EVs, however, their role is still poorly understood. In this dysfunctional scenario, EVs can be used as damage biomarkers for CKD, as they carry information from their cells of origin. Here, we aim to elucidate the formation of EVs in endothelial cells exposed to TMAO. Method Human endothelial cells (EA.hy926, ATCC CRL-2922) were exposed for 24 h with TMAO at uremic concentrations (7.49 mg/L). EVs were isolated by differential ultracentrifugation. Protein concentration was analyzed by Pierce™ BCA Protein Assay Kit, and particle size and particle concentration were analyzed by NanoParticle Tracking Analysis (NTA), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). EVs were stained with calcein and their internalization in endothelial cells was analyzed with Fluorescence Confocal Microscopy. Results TMAO treatment at uremic concentration induced the formation of EVs with a size of 202.8 ± 3.1 nm (image 1B) and 1.09 × 109 ± 2.68 × 107 particles/mL and a total protein concentration of 88.57 µg/mL. The morphological features of EVs are shown in images 1C-1F. TMAO-induced EVs were incorporated by endothelial cells, being dispersed in the cytoplasm or perinuclear regions (images 1G and end 1H). Conclusion TMAO was able to induce the formation of EVs in endothelial cells, with characteristics morphological features. When compared to control EVs (image 1A), TMAO-EVs have a more heterogeneous size, which indicate a change in the size pattern, and thus the nature of the EVs induced by TMAO. TMAO-EVs were able to be internalized by human endothelial cells. This uptake can be closely related to the effects of EVs in endothelial cells, but more experiments need to be performed. Taken together, these data could contribute to understanding how the formation and uptake of TMAO-EVs by the endothelium occurs, relating their effects to the cardiovascular complications of CKD.

Drip Fertigation Enhances the Responses of Grain Yield and Quality to Nitrogen Topdressing Rate in Irrigated Winter Wheat in North China.

Conventional water and nitrogen (N) management practice in north China, comprising flood irrigation and N fertilizer broadcast (FB), limits sustainable wheat production. Drip fertigation (DF) has been widely adopted in wheat production in recent years and has effectively improved yields. However, the responses of the yield and quality to the N topdressing rate (NTR) under DF are still unclear. This study determined the responses of the wheat yield and quality to NTR under DF, as well as assessing whether DF could synergistically increase the yield and quality. A field experiment was conducted in north China for two seasons (2021-2023) using a split-plot design with three replicates. The main plot used the management practice (FB and DF) and the sub-plot had N treatment (no N applied, and NTRs of 0, 40, 80, 120, and 160 kg ha-1 with 150 kg N ha-1 as basal fertilizer, denoted as N0, T0, T40, T80, T120, and T160, respectively). Our results showed that high and saturated wheat yields (12.08 and 11.46 t ha-1) were obtained under DF at T80, and the highest yields were produced at T160 (11.71 and 11.30 t ha-1) under FB. Compared with FB, the greatest yield increase of 10.4-12.6% was achieved at T80 under DF. A higher spike number due to the increased effective stem percentage and a greater grain weight because of enhanced post-anthesis biomass production (BPpost) explained the improved yield under DF. The enhanced post-anthesis radiation use efficiency (RUE) led to the greater BPpost under DF. The enhanced specific leaf N, antioxidant capacity, and stomatal conductance under DF explained the higher light-saturated photosynthesis rate of flag leaves, which partly led to the increased post-anthesis RUE. NTR higher than 80 kg ha-1 did not enhance the yield, but it significantly improved the gliadin and glutelin contents, thereby leading to a higher total protein content, better gluten characteristics, and superior processing quality. Therefore, drip fertigation is a practical strategy for increasing both yield and quality with reduced water input and appropriate N input in irrigated winter wheat in north China. Applying 80 kg ha-1 of NTR under drip irrigation produces a high yield, but further gain in grain quality needs a higher NTR.

Evaluation of gastrointestinal tract lesions and serum malondialdehyde levels after repeated oral administration of phenylbutazone in horses.

Phenylbutazone (PBZ) is a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug for horses. However, because of its gastrointestinal side effects, its administration requires careful attention in veterinary practice. Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a serum biomarker associated with increased damage to the equine gastrointestinal system. This study investigated the hematological effects and alterations in the gastrointestinal tract and assessed serum MDA concentrations following repeated oral PBZ administration at clinical doses. Fourteen horses were randomly divided into control and treatment groups. All horses in the treatment group were administered 4.4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight of PBZ syrup orally twice a day for 7 days, whereas the control group received syrup as a placebo. The development of gastrointestinal side effects was investigated using gastroscopy, abdominal ultrasound, and fecal pH; serum MDA concentrations were assessed using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Data were compared between PBZ-treated and control horses before and after the treatment period. The treatment group exhibited decreased albumin and total protein concentrations. Moreover, this group exhibited a higher thickness of the right dorsal colon wall (p = 0.03) and had higher scores for squamous gastric ulcers (p = 0.01). Fecal pH was lower in the treatment group than in the control group after PBZ administration (p < 0.01). Although MDA concentrations were higher in the treatment group after PBZ administration, they did not differ significantly from those of the control group. This study highlighted the changes in hematological and gastrointestinal lesions resulting from PBZ administration in horses at clinical doses, even without clinical signs. However, MDA may not be an optimal biomarker for the early detection of gastrointestinal damage due to PBZ treatment in horses.

Evaluation of Salivary Parameters and Oral Health Status in Periodontally Healthy Subjects and Chronic Periodontitis Subjects

Introduction: Periodontal disease is a chronic disease of the oral cavity that consists of a group of inflammatory disorders affecting the supporting structures of the dentition. Saliva can be used to predict the early onset of periodontitis. Several investigations have been carried out to evaluate the salivary chemical compounds that lead to the destruction and/or protection of periodontal tissues. The present study aimed to assess and compare salivary parameters and oral health status in periodontally healthy and chronic generalised periodontitis patients. Materials and Methods: This is an in vivo study designed to compare salivary parameters (albumin, urea, total proteins, amylase, glucose and pH) of unstimulated saliva and oral health status of periodontally healthy subjects (n = 65) and chronic generalised periodontitis subjects (n = 65). Human whole unstimulated saliva was collected by spitting method with the subject seated in an upright position after refraining from oral intake for 2 h before saliva collection. Approximately 5 mL of saliva was collected and stored in graduated saliva-collecting vials and refrigerated at 4°C for 1 h. The samples were centrifuged at 2800 rpm for 10 min, and the supernatant was separated from the substrate and stored at 20°C. Next, the sample was defrosted at room temperature and centrifuged at 3000 rpm. The supernatant was separated again to determine the concentrations of glucose, amylase, urea, total protein and albumin using the respective kits and analysed using an automated analyser. Salivary pH was estimated electrometrically with the help of a pH meter. Results: A significant association was found between salivary parameters (amylase and albumin total proteins) and clinical parameters (plaque index [PI], gingival index) [GI], probing depth and calculus index in generalised chronic periodontitis subjects when compared to periodontally healthy subjects. Conclusion: The increase in salivary parameters (amylase, total proteins and albumin) was statistically significant except for salivary glucose and urea (statistically non-significant) in generalised chronic periodontitis subjects compared to the healthy subjects. As the clinical parameters (probing depth, loss of attachment, PI, GI, calculus index and decay missing filled teeth) in periodontitis subjects increased, the salivary parameters also increased, suggesting a linear relationship between the generalised chronic periodontitis and salivary parameters (total proteins, albumin and amylase).

STUDY OF ACUTE AND SUB-ACUTE TOXICITY OF A MEDICATION BASED ON SPIDER VENOM EXTRACT

Homeopathy is a regulatory therapy. The effectiveness of homeopathic therapy does not depend on the dose of the drug, but on the frequency of its repetitions. The composition of homeopathic preparations includes a wide range of natural and synthetic active substances: minerals; chemical substances; substances of plant origin; microorganisms, including fungi, bacteria, viruses, and plant parasites; substances of animal origin; and human materials, which may include tissues, secretions, hormones, and genetically homogeneous cell lines. One such substance is an extract of spider venom (Tarantul cubensis D6), which remains active in pharmaceutical preparation for a long time. The drug is selectively absorbed in inflamed tissues, differentiating them from healthy cells and suppressing inflammation. The drug is also effective in necrotic and proliferative processes. It is used for the treatment of panaritium in the initial stage, skin ulcers, necrobacillosis, and necrosis of the soft tissues of the animal. Any materials of animal or human origin are potentially dangerous for human and animal health, as they may contain toxic or pathogenic substances. Therefore, the study of the acute and subacute toxicity of spider venom extract is one of the stages of establishing the toxicological parameters of the drug. The use of the drug in a therapeutic dose caused an increase in animal body weight, hemoglobin concentration, number of leukocytes, erythrocytes, hematocrit value, average erythrocyte volume (MCV), average hemoglobin content in erythrocytes (МСН), average concentration of hemoglobin in erythrocytes (МСНС), number of platelets, and AST activity against the background of a slight decrease in total protein content, creatinine, urea, and ALT activity. The use of the drug in a 10-fold therapeutic dose caused an increase in animal body weight, creatinine, urea, ALT, and AST activity against the background of a decrease in the concentration of hemoglobin, the number of leukocytes and erythrocytes, the value of hematocrit, the average volume of erythrocytes (MCV), the average content of hemoglobin in erythrocytes (МСН), the average concentration of hemoglobin in erythrocytes (МСНС), the number of platelets, and the content of total protein.

Effect of Milk Sources on Whey Protein and Fractions of Casein

Aim: Milk from Cow, Buffalo and goat was used for the study of isolation and fractionation of casein and whey proteins. Buffalo and goat milk were subjected to physicochemical attribute studies and a detailed protein profile namely total protein, casein fractions α-, β- and κ casein and whey protein were separated by urea fractionation method. The aim of this study was to compare various casein fractions isolated from cows, Buffalo and Goat milk. The method of separating casein into its fractions is based on the solubility of the individual components in urea the solution. The separation of casein fractions was carried out in dissolving molar concentration of urea and the yield of fractions and total protein percentages were calculated. Buffalo and goat milk have comparatively higher total protein and whey protein content as compared to cow milk. Maximum whey proteins found in goat milk (20.58%) whereas cow milk had the lowest whey protein (19.29%). Among casein fractions, α fraction (16.64%) was found maximum in Buffalo milk followed by cow (14.92%) and goat milk (5.42%). The goat milk showed the highest level of β casein (17.81%) whereas, the lowest concentration of β casein was found in cow milk (9.38%). Study Design: A significant contribution to the total milk production of India comes from buffalo milk and goat milk. Despite that, Buffalo milk and goat milk are not being utilized for many products because of difference in composition of different species milk and their inherent problems associated in the production of products. Place and Duration of Study: Karnataka Veterinary Animal and Fisheries Sciences University (KVAFSU), Dairy Science College, Hebbal, Bangalore Karnataka, India Materials: The Goat milk samples were collected from Sinchana Goat and Sheep farm, Marenahalli village (Bengaluru Rural Dist) and Buffalo milk was obtained from Country Delight Pvt. Ltd., J. P. Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka. Cow milk used in this investigation was collected from SEDP, Dairy Science College, Hebbal, Bengalore.. All the glassware used was soaked in chromic acid solution, repeatedly washed with water, rinsed with distilled water and dried before use. For microbiological analysis dried test tubes, conical flasks, pipettes were cotton plugged and sterilized in a hot air oven. The chemicals and reagents used in this study were mainly of analytical grade procured from Prince Laboratory Company Pvt. Limited, Bangalore. The protein molecular weight markers used for the electrophoretic study were procured from Bangalore Genei Pvt. Ltd. Methodology: Standard urea fractionation method adopted by Hipp et al was used for isolation and fractionation of caseins. Skim milk was prepared by subjecting whole milk for centrifugation, the skim milk obtained was acidified using 1 % hydrochloric acid at 200 C to obtain casein precipitate. Obtained whole casein was dissolved in 3.3 M urea at pH 7.5 and adjusted to pH 4.6 which precipitates the bulk of α casein and leaving k-caseins into soluble filtrates. Again the supernatant was adjusted to pH 4.9 diluted to 1.0 M urea and warmed to 300 C precipitating the β-caeisn. Further, addition of ammonium sulphate was used to isolate k-casein from the precipitate. Results: The sources of protein had a significant influence on the total casein, casein fractions and whey protein content of different species. The highest quantity of total caseins (34.30g/l) and whey protein (8.87 g/l) were observed in buffalo milk followed by cow (28.52 g/l) and lowest was observed in goat milk (28.45 g/l). Total protein, casein and whey protein contents were greatly affected by the source of milk. Conclusion: The significant effect of source of milk on total protein, casein, its fractions and their yield was observed. highest yield of casein (54.31%) was observed in cow milk than buffalo milk (48.95 %) and lower yield was found in goat milk. Amongst the three species, highest per cent of β casein was noted in goat milk (54.05 %) followed by buffalo (36.03%) and cow milk (34.14%). Recommendation: Rasagulla will be consumed universally by all age groups globally. Thus, the consumption of Rasagulla helps in providing overall nutritional requirements. However, the study has been conducted on a pilot scale. Moreover, commercial production may necessitate huge cost on enzymatic modification of proteins and separation peptides for value addition.

Unraveling the effect of drought and heat stresses on grain quality of wheat (Triticum aestivum)

Drought stress (DS) and heat stress (HS) have adverse effects on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) growth, serving as the primary constraints that significantly limit grain yield. Present study was carried out during 2020–21 and 2021–22 at the research farm of ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to evaluate the effects of drought and heat stress on grain quality parameters of 4 contrasting wheat genotypes. Several physiological and biochemical parameters were analyzed in wheat cv. C306 (thermotolerant), HD3271 (thermosusceptible), H11500 (drought tolerant) and HD3226 (drought susceptible) under DS and HS. Our study found that disintegration of chlorophyll pigments was higher in wheat cv. HD3226 (43%) under combined stress. Grain weight per spike was reduced by 30% in C306 and 47.3% in HD 3271 under combined drought and heat stress treatment. All cultivars showed reduction in starch, amylose, amylopectin, AGPase and Soluble starch synthase activity under DS and HS. Additionally, a significant increase in total soluble protein and free amino acid content were observed in all genotypes under combined stress. Chlorophyll content and grain weight per spike were positively correlated with the starch, amylose, amylopectin, soluble starch synthase and AGPase activity, while negatively related to the total soluble protein and free amino acid content. The tolerant genotypes maintained higher chlorophyll content, grain weight per spike, starch, amylose, amylopectin, soluble starch synthase and AGPase activity could be used for breeding, for the adaptation to drought and heat under climate change.

Study of the Impact of the Parasitic Microalgae Coccomyxa parasitica on the Health of Bivalve Modiolus kurilensis

The invasion of bivalves by parasitic microalgae Coccomyxa is widespread and causes pathologies and dysfunctions of the organs, especially in the most valuable products: the mantle and the muscle. The pathogenesis of the disease remains completely unknown. In this study, based on a macroscopic examination of Modiolus kurilensis and microalgae count in each infected individual, four stages of disease development with characteristic pathognomonic symptoms were described. During the progression of the disease, the concentration of alkaline phosphatase, glucose, calcium, hemolytic and agglutinating activities, number of basophils, eosinophils, phagocytes, and cells with reactive oxygen species increased in the hemolymph, while number of agranulocytes, cells with lysosomes, dead hemocytes, total protein concentration, as well as the weight of mollusks decreased. In the nephridia and digestive gland, necrosis, invasion of Nematopsis sp., hemocyte infiltration, and fibrosis increased. The ratio of changed tubules and occurrence of granulocytomas increased in the digestive gland, while the base membrane, nephrocytes and concretions changed in the nephridia. This study helps establish the variability of these parameters under normal conditions and their alteration during the disease. Moreover, these findings can be used for veterinary monitoring of the state of bivalves in natural and aquaculture populations.

Assessment of textile effluent treatment by immobilized Trametes pubescens MB 89 for plant growth promotion.

Industrialization and the ever-increasing world population have diminished high-quality water resources for sustainable agriculture. It is imperative to effectively treat industrial effluent to render the treated water available for crop cultivation. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of textile effluent treated with Trametes pubescens MB 89 in supporting maize cultivation. The fungal treatment reduced the amounts of Co, Pb and As in the textile effluent. The biological oxygen demand, total dissolved solids and total suspended solids were within the permissible limits in the treated effluent. The data indicated that the irrigation of maize with fungal-treated textile effluent improved the growth parameters of the plant including root, shoot length, leaf area and chlorophyll content. Moreover, better antioxidant activity, total phenol content and protein content in roots, stems and leaves of maize plants were obtained. Photosynthetic parameters (potential quantum yield, electron transport rate and fluorescence yield of non-photochemical losses other than heat) were also improved in the plants irrigated with treated effluent as compared to the control groups. In conclusion, the treatment of textile effluent with the immobilized T. pubescens presents a sustainable solution to minimize chemical pollution and effectively utilize water resources.

Chemical Composition and Phytochemical Screening of Juniperus Phoenicea L.: Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity, Minerals, and Bioactive Compounds

The purpose of the research was to determine Juniperus phoenicea L.'s elemental content, antioxidant activity, and phytochemical composition. Phytochemical screening was performed on four plant extracts (water, ethanol, chloroform, and ether). The aqueous and ethanol extracts were also analyzed for their total phenols, total flavonoids, and total antioxidant contents. The levels of macroelements (Na, Mg, Ca) and microelements (Fe, Cu, Zn) in the plant were determined by flame photometry and atomic absorption spectrometry. Moisture, ash, total protein, and total alkaloids were also determined. The results showed that the aqueous and ethanol extracts contained various phytochemicals, such as carbohydrates, proteins, phenols, tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, coumarins, anthocyanins, saponins, and glycosides. The ethanol extract had higher concentrations of most phytochemicals than the aqueous extract, except for carbohydrates and proteins. The chloroform and ether extracts had lower concentrations of phytochemicals than the aqueous and ethanol extracts. The moisture, ash, total protein, and total alkaloid contents of the plant were 13%, 5.52%, 10.78%, and 1.84%, respectively. The total phenol contents, total flavonoid contents, and total antioxidant activity of the ethanol extract were 49.36±5.24 mg/g, 20.61±2.08 mg/g, and 34.82±2.44 mg/g, respectively. The corresponding values for the aqueous extract were 46.26±2.47 mg/g, 14.80±1.12 mg/g, and 37.32±3.29 mg/g, respectively. The order of abundance for macroelements was Ca (26860±950 mg/kg) &amp;gt; Na (1705.4±85 mg/kg) &amp;gt; Mg (944.4±38 mg/kg), whereas for microelements it was Fe (315.4±18 mg/kg) &amp;gt; Cu (55.52±3 mg/kg) &amp;gt; Zn (35.66±2 mg/kg). These results indicate that Juniperus phoenicea L. is a rich source of phytochemicals and elements that may have potential health benefits.

VERNONIA AMYGDALINA LEAVES INCORPORATION INTO HIGH FAT DIET EXHIBITED HYPOGLYCEMIC, HEPATOPROTECTIVE, AND WEIGHT LOWERING EFFECTS IN MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE INTOXICATED WISTAR RATS

Background and aims: Insulin resistance (IR) and obesity (Ob) are hallmarks of metabolic syndrome while high-fat diet (HFD) and monosodium glutamate (MSG) consumption have been implicated in both IR and Ob. In current study, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, and weight-reducing effects of dietary Vernonia amygdalina (VA) in MSG-intoxicated HFD fed wistar rats was investigated. Methods: Male wistar rats (36) were randomly allocated into six groups of six rats each, each weighing between 150 and 250 grams on average. The animals were given 5%, 10% dietary incorporated VA (VAHFD), and Orlistat 10 mg/kg for 4 weeks after being treated orally with MSG 8000 mg/kg for the first 8 weeks while on HFD. Changes in the experimental animals' weight, liver histology, total protein and albumin concentrations, and fasting blood glucose concentrations were all noted, and the data was analyzed for statistical significance using appropriate techniques. Results: Peak fasting blood glucose concentration was recorded for the MSG-only group at the end of the study period while 10% VAHFD was greater than Orlistat 10 mg/kg in reducing it. Hepatotoxicity was observed in rats fed the HFD or HFD + MSG while the 10% VAHFD was comparable to Orlistat 10 mg/kg in protecting the liver both of which were greater than the 5% VAHFD. The Orlistat group showed a peak reduction in weight gain from week 9 to the end of week 12, followed by the 5% VAHFD &gt; 10% VAHFD. Conclusions: Following co-intoxication with MSG + HFD, dietary VAHFD was effective in managing hyperglycemia, hepatotoxicity, and weight gain, however, there was no additive effect on toxicity from MSG + HFD co-intoxication on the various studied parameters. Peer Review History: Received 4 February 2024; Revised 11 March 2024; Accepted 19 April; Available online 15 May 2024 Academic Editor: Dr. A.A. Mgbahurike, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, amaka_mgbahurike@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Ahmad Najib, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Makassar, Indonesia, ahmad.najib@umi.ac.id Dr. Tamer Elhabibi, Suez Canal University, Egypt, tamer_hassan@pharm.suez.edu.eg

Effect of a garlic drench on Galectin gene expression in ovine whole blood

Garlic, known for its immune-modulating and antibiotic properties, contains lectins that possess antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. Galectins (Gals), which bind β-galactosides, play a role in modulating immunity and pathological processes. It is hypothesized that garlic’s lectin components interfere with animal lectins. St. Croix sheep, known for their resistance to parasites and adaptability, are influenced by dietary supplements for innate immunity. This study evaluated the impact of garlic drench on Galectin gene expression in St. Croix sheep. Adult non-lactating ewes received either garlic juice concentrate or sterile distilled water for four weeks. Blood samples were collected, and plasma and whole blood cells were separated. Galectin secretion was assessed using a Sheep-specific ELISA, while Galectin gene transcription was analyzed through real-time PCR. Garlic administration upregulated LGALS-3 gene expression and significantly increased total plasma protein concentration. Garlic supplementation also affected Galectin secretion, with Gal-1, Gal-3, and Gal-9 showing differential effects.

Phenological, Pomological, Biochemical and Physical Characteristics of Siirt Pistachio Variety (Pistacia vera L.) in Five Different Ecologies of Southeast Anatolia-Türkiye

ABSTRACT This study was conducted on Siirt Pistachio variety (Pistacia vera L.) grown in five different locations (Kahramanmaraş, Pazarcık, Gaziantep, Ceylanpınar and Siirt) for two years (2017 and 2018). Phenological (bud burst, beginning of flowering, full-bloom, and beginning of leafing end of flowering), pomological (fruit size, fruit weight, and color parameters), physical (split, unsplit fruit ratios, empty and full fruit ratio) and biochemical (total phenolics, flavonoids, antioxidant activity, and fatty acids) analyses were conducted. Total protein contents varied between 18.55% (Ceylanpınar) and 19.45% (Gaziantep); fatty acid contents between 52.80% (Siirt) and 54.25% (Gaziantep); saturated fatty acid ratios between 10.44% (Gaziantep) and 11.58% (Pazarcık); unsaturated fatty acid ratios between 88.42% (Pazarcık) and 89.56% (Gaziantep); saturated fatty acid/unsaturated fatty acid ratios between 7.64% (Pazarcık) and 8.58% (Gaziantep); total phenolics between 18.91 (Ceylanpınar) and 23.04 mg GAE/g; total flavonoids between 7.34 (Ceylanpınar) and 10.23 mg QE/g; antioxidant activity values between between 1.65 (Siirt) and 3.25 IC50 µg/ml (Kahramanmaraş). Principal component analysis revealed that four components had eigenvalues greater than 1. The first two components explained 64.6% of total variation. Oleic (−0.98) and linoleic (0.91) acids were the most effective parameters on the first component and kernel weight, a*, protein, arachidic, gonolic acids, Mg, P and Zn were the most effective parameters on the second component. Present findings can guide new studies to be done with this species.

Human gingival mesenchymal stem cells-lyosecretome attenuates adverse effect of hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress on osteoblast cells

ObjectiveTo determine total protein content, antioxidant activity, and protective ability of lyophilized human gingival mesenchymal stem cells (hGMSCs)-secretome in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) induced oxidative stress model. MethodsHuman GMSCs were cultured to obtain a conditioned medium (secretome), then lyophilized to produce lyosecretome. Total protein was determined by bicinchoninic acid assay (BCA) and SDS-PAGE to improve protein measurements. Antioxidant concentration was measured by ABTS assay, while the protective ability of lyosecretome against oxidative stress was determined by the metabolic activity of osteoblast cells. The study group was divided into a control group (culture medium) and a lyosecretome treatment group (0.0; 0.157, 0.313, 0.625, 1.25, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/mL + H2O2). ResultsLyosecretome had a protein concentration of 2086.00 ± 0.20 μg/ml, with a molecular weight of 174, 74, 61, 55, and 26 kDa, which are thought to facilitate cell migration, as well as bind cytokines and growth factors. Lyosecretome also provided the highest antioxidant activity of 93.51% at a concentration of 4.8 mg/ml, with an IC50 value of 2.08 mg/ml. The highest cell metabolic activity (79.53 ± 2.41%) was shown in the 1.25 mg/ml lyosecretome treatment group. All concentrations of hGMSC-lyosecretome attenuate the adverse effect of H2O2-induced oxidative stress. ConclusionLyosecretome obtained from hGMSCs can maintain metabolic activity in osteoblast cells as protection against H2O2 oxidative stress.

Erianin alleviates LPS-induced acute lung injury via antagonizing P-selectin-mediated neutrophil adhesion function

Ethnopharmacological relevanceDendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo, known as “Tiepi Shihu” in traditional Chinese medicine, boasts an extensive history of medicinal use documented in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. “Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing” records D. officinale as a superior herbal medicine for fortifying “Yin” and invigorating the five viscera. Erianin, a benzidine compound, emerges as a prominent active constituent derived from D. officinale, with the pharmacological efficacy of D. officinale closely linked to the anti-inflammatory properties of erianin. Aim of the studyAcute lung injury (ALI) is a substantial threat to global public health, while P-selectin stands out as a promising novel target for treating acute inflammatory conditions. This investigation aims to explore the therapeutic potential of erianin in ALI treatment and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Experimental designThe effectiveness of erianin in conferring protection against ALI was investigated through comprehensive histopathological and biochemical analyses of lung tissues and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in an in vivo model of LPS-induced ALI in mice. The impact of erianin on fMLP-induced neutrophil chemotaxis was quantitatively assessed using the Transwell and Zigmond chamber, respectively. To determine the therapeutic target of erianin and elucidate their binding capability, a series of sophisticated assays were employed, including drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) assay, cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), and molecular docking analyses. ResultsErianin demonstrated a significant alleviation of LPS-induced acute lung injury, characterized by reduced total cell and neutrophil counts and diminished total protein contents in BALF. Moreover, erianin exhibited a capacity to decrease proinflammatory cytokine production in both lung tissues and BALF. Notably, erianin effectively suppressed the activation of NF-κB signaling in the lung tissues of LPS- challenged mice; however, it did not exhibit in vitro inhibitory effects on inflammation in LPS-induced human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMECs). Additionally, erianin blocked the adhesion and rolling of neutrophils on HPMECs. While erianin did not influence endothelial P-selectin expression or cytomembrane translocation, it significantly reduced the ligand affinity between P-selectin and P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1). ConclusionsErianin inhibits P-selectin-mediated neutrophil adhesion to activated endothelium, thereby alleviating ALI. The present study highlights the potential of erianin as a promising lead for ALI treatment.

Effects of Artificial Sugar Supplementation on the Composition and Nutritional Potency of Honey from Apis cerana.

In the global apiculture industry, reward feeding and supplementary feeding are essential for maintaining bee colonies. Beekeepers provide artificial supplements to their colonies, typically in the form of either a honey-water solution or sugar syrup. Owing to cost considerations associated with beekeeping, most beekeepers opt for sugar syrup. However, the effects of different types of artificial sugar supplements on bee colonies and their subsequent impact on honey composition remain unclear. To address this gap, this study compared the chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and nutritional potency of three types of honey: honey derived from colonies fed sugar syrup (sugar-based product, SP) or a honey-water solution (honey-sourced honey, HH) and naturally sourced honey (flower-sourced honey, FH), which served as the control. The results revealed that FH outperformed HH and SP in terms of total acidity, sugar content, total protein content, and antioxidant capacity, and HH outperformed SP. Regarding nutritional efficacy, including the lifespan and learning and memory capabilities of worker bees, FH exhibited the best outcomes, with no significant differences observed between HH and SP. This study underscores the importance of sugar source selection in influencing honey quality and emphasizes the potential consequences of substituting honey with sugar syrup in traditional apiculture practices.

Reponses of morphological and biochemical traits of bamboo trees under elevated atmospheric O3 enrichment

Dwarf bamboo (Indocalamus decorus) is an O3-tolerant plant species. To identify the possible mechanism and response of leaf morphological, antioxidant, and anatomical characteristics to elevated atmospheric O3 (EO3) concentrations, we exposed three-year-old I. decorus seedlings to three O3 levels (low O3-LO: ambient air; medium O3-MO: Ambient air+70 ppb high O3–HO: Ambient air+140 ppb O3) over a growing season using open-top chambers. Leaf shape and stomatal characteristics, and leaf microscopic structure of I. decorus were examined. The results indicated that 1) the stomata O3 flux (Fst) of HO decreased more rapidly under EO3 as the exposure time increased. The foliar O3 injury of HO and MO occurred when AOT40 was 26.62 ppm h and 33.20 ppm h, respectively, 2) under EO3, leaf number, leaf mass per area, leaf area, and stomata length/width all decreased, while leaf thickness, stomatal density, width, and area increased compared to the control, 3) MDA and total soluble protein contents all showed significantly increase under HO (36.57% and 32.77%) and MO(31.91% and 19.52%) while proline contents only increased under HO(33.27%). 4) MO and HO increased bulliform cells numbers in the leaves by 6.28% and 23.01%, respectively. HO reduced the transverse area of bulliform cells by 13.73%, while MO treatments had no effect, and 5) the number of fusoid cells interspace, the transverse area of fusoid cells interspace, and mesophyll thickness of HO significantly increased by 11.16%, 28.58%, and 13.42%, respectively. In conclusion, I. decorus exhibits strong O3 tolerance characteristics, which stem from adaptions in the leaf's morphological, structural, antioxidant, and anatomical features. One critical attribute was the enlargement of the bulliform cell transverse area and the transverse area of fusoid cells interspace that drove this resistance to O3. Local bamboo species with high resistance to O3 pollution thus need to be promoted for sustained productivity and ecosystem services in areas with high O3 pollution.