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There are concerns about residues of drugs in meat that are used to prevent coccidiosis in chickens. Natural compounds are an alternative to drugs. Two studies investigated the effect of an extract of Enterolobium cyclocarpum fruits (EEC) in the feed of male Leghorn chickens exposed to Eimeria spp. In the first experiment, the administration of EEC after infection with Eimeria spp. was investigated over 16 days. One thousand chickens were randomly housed in 20 pens of 1 m 2 each. The pens were randomly assigned to each treatment. Five treatments were administered, containing 150, 300 and 450 mg/kg of EEC in the feed, the fourth treatment (C) contained 0.5 g/kg of a commercial anticoccidial, and the fifth treatment provided no treatment (WA). The second experiment lasted 18 days. Administration of the EEC began five days before the chickens were infected with Eimeria spp. Four hundred and eighty chickens were randomly allocated to 24 pens of 1 m 2 . The pens were randomly assigned to each treatment. In the second experiment, the same five treatments were tested and one additional treatment containing 300 mg EEC plus 1 g of polyethylene glycol (PEG)/kg of feed (E300PEG). In the experiment one chickens in the EEC treatments had lower faecal oocyst excretion (OE) on day 14 post infection with Eimeria spp., than chickens in the WA treatment (P < 0.05). A reduction in live weight gain (LWG) was observed in the EEC treatments (P < 0.05). In the second experiment, the excretion of oocysts in chickens from the EEC and E300PEG treatments on day 13 post-infection with Eimeria spp. was the same as in the C treatment and lower than in the WA treatment (P < 0.05). LWG was lower in the EEC treatments than in the C treatment (P < 0.05). However, the Chickens in the E300PEG and C treatments had similar LWG (P > 0.05) suggesting that PEG inhibits the negative effect of EEC tannins on LWG. In conclusion, the addition of EEC to chicken feed reduced both OE and LWG. Treatment with EEC and PEG (E300PEG) reduced the excretion of oocysts without negative effects on LWG., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

This study evaluated three continuous grazing systems: Brachiaria Brizantha, Clitoria ternatea and naturalized pastures, complemented with commercial concentrate and C. ternatea silage on milk yield, nutrient use and enteric methane (CH 4 ) emissions. Nine multiparous cows of local Zebu breeds, with an average weight of 448 ± 87 kg, were used. The chemical composition of the food was determined. Live weight, milk production, and quality were assessed. Furthermore, serum urea, urea nitrogen, creatinine and glucose in blood were monitored, and nitrogen use efficiency were calculated. Enteric methane (CH 4 ) emissions were estimated using Tier-2 methodology. A 3 × 3 latin square experimental design was applied. The grazing systems of B. brizantha and C. ternatea had the greater live weights of 465.8 and 453.3 kg/cow, although the latter is similar to naturalized pasture. Milk production and quality were not affected by grazing system, with the exception of the non-fat solids, where the C. ternatea system was lower (102.2 g/kg) than the other grazing systems. The crude protein and N intake, and N excretion in feces and urine were lower in naturalized pasture systems (1139.0 g/day). N outputs in milk was high in the C. ternatea system (56.3 g/cow/day). The naturalized pastures systems showed the better feed use efficiency (25.7%) compared to others. Serum urea and blood urea nitrogen were greater in B. brizantha followed by C. ternatea. Enteric CH 4 emissions were indifferent among grazing systems when expressed as a percentage of greenhouse gases (7.1%). In conclusion, the grazing C. ternatea supplemented with commercial concentrate and C. ternatea silage maintains milk production and quality, reduced cow/day emissions (by 2.5%) and lowered energy losses as methane., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

The Dalbergieae lectin group encompasses several lectins with significant differences in their carbohydrate specificities and biological properties. The current work reports on the purification and characterization of a GalNAc/Gal-specific lectin from Vataireopsis araroba (Aguiar) Ducke, designated as VaL. The lectin was purified from the seeds in a single step using guar gum affinity chromatography. The lectin migrated as a single band of about 35 kDa on SDS-PAGE and, in native conditions, occurs as a homodimer. The purified lectin is stable at temperatures up to 60 °C and in a pH range from 7 to 8 and requires divalent cations for its activity. Sugar-inhibition assays demonstrate the lectin specificity towards N-acetyl-D-galactosamine, D-galactose and related sugars. Furthermore, glycan array analyses show that VaL interacts preferentially with glycans containing terminal GalNAc/Galβ1-4GlcNAc. Biological activity assays were performed using three insect cell lines: CF1 midgut cells from the spruce budworm Choristoneura fumiferana, S2 embryo cells from the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, and GutAW midgut cells from the corn earworm Helicoverpa zea. In vitro assays indicated a biostatic effect for VaL on CF1 cells, but not on S2 and GutAW cells. The lectin presented a biostatic effect by reducing the cell growth and inducing cell agglutination, suggesting an interaction with glycans on the cell surface. VaL has been characterized as a galactoside-specific lectin of the Dalbergieae tribe, with sequence similarity to lectins from Vatairea and Arachis., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Herbal products with an antioxidant capacity can boost male reproductive functions. The empiric use of Ceratonia siliqua (carob) for its antioxidant properties is common among infertile men in Iran and Turkey. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of C. siliqua (carob) on semen parameters, oxidative stress markers, and pregnancy rate in a parallel randomized, controlled study. A total of 60 infertile men with oligozoospermia, asthenospermia, and teratospermia were recruited from April 2018 to March 2019. Participants were divided randomly into the following two groups: carob syrup twice a day or vitamin E 100 mg twice a day for 3 months. Semen analysis was performed and hormonal levels and stress oxidative markers were measured in each treatment arm after 3 months. The quality of semen parameters improved in the carob group compared with Vit E semen count (p = 0.04 Cohen's d = .51), morphology (p = 0.001 Cohen's d = .93) and motility parameters (p = 0.002 Cohen's d = .90) were significantly higher in the carob group. No significant difference can be detected in post-treatment hormonal parameters and oxidative markers between groups, except for total antioxidant capacity(TAC) which was higher after post-treatment in carob group. A significantly higher pregnancy rate was found among the carob group. The administration of carob may be an effective agent for the improvement of semen parameters, probably related both to its involvement in the changing of testosterone level and to its antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, additional studies to evaluate the optimal dose and duration of treatment are needed. The trial has been registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (Registration number: IRCT20171209037794N1.

Yabumame (Amphicarpaea bracteata (L.) Fernald subsp. edgeworthii (Benth.) H.Ohashi var. japonica (Oliv.) H.Ohashi) is a legume plant that the Ainu people eat as a traditional food, although the bioactive ingredients other than vitamins have not been studied. In this study, the structures of yabumame isoflavone glucosides were determined and their effect on leukotriene (LT) B 4 , a chemical mediator of type I allergy, produced in mast cells, was investigated in vitro. Seven compounds were isolated from yabumame. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic and spectrometric analyses, which were genistein-7-O-β-D-glucoside (1), formononetin-7-O-(2″-O-β-D-glucosyl)-β-D-glucoside (2), formononetin-7-O-β-D-glucoside (3), biochanin A-7-O-(2″-O-β-D-glucosyl)-β-D-glucoside (4), formononetin-7-O-(6″-O-malonyl)-β-D-glucoside (5), biochanin A-7-O-(2″-O-β-D-glucosyl-6″-O-β-D-glucosyl)-β-D-glucoside (6), and biochanin A-7-O-(6″-O-malonyl)-β-D-glucoside (7). Compounds 2, 4, and 6 were determined as new compounds. Compound 3 showed statistically significant suppressive effect on LTB 4 production in mast cells, although the activity was not strong. On the other hand, biochanin A, an aglycone common to compounds 4, 6, and 7, strongly inhibited the LTB 4 production. The results suggest that some of yabumame isoflavone glucosides might contribute to mitigate type I allergy. Seven isoflavone glucosides including 3 new compounds were found in yabumame and their anti-allergic effect was evaluated.

This study investigates the immersion impregnation process of the copaiba oleoresin and leaf extract into Spongostan TM gelatin dressings to be used in wound healing treatment. Copaiba oleoresin and leaf extract were characterized by spectroscopic analyses in order to confirm the identity of bioactive compounds and their compatibility with dressing material. Their antibacterial properties were evaluated and oleoresin activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria was confirmed while the leaf extract showed activity against S. aureus. Solubility assays in organic solvents revealed that copaiba oleoresin is miscible into dichloromethane, while leaf extract showed a 20 g/ml solubility coefficient at 35 °C in the same solvent. These miscibility and solubility conditions were selected for the impregnation process. Using the organic solvent immersion method, 11 mg of copaiba oleoresin and 19 mg of leaf extract were impregnated into 1 cm 3 of 3D matrix. The main bioactives from copaiba products, such as β-caryophyllene and lupeol, were tracked in the gelatin dressing. DSC and TGA assays showed no thermal changes in the samples after impregnation. Furthermore, the spatial organization of foam structure of the dressings was preserved after superficial distribution of oleoresin, as well as amorphous-like particulate deposition of leaf extract. The main compound of copaiba oleoresin, β-caryophyllene, which exhibits well-known anti-inflammatory activities, and the main compound of copaiba leaf extract, lupeol, also an anti-inflammatory agent, were successfully impregnated using organic solvent in wound dressings and are promising for further application on tissue wound healing. Graphical Abstract.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the grazing of goats in a grass monoculture system and in intercropping systems of grass + legumes. A randomized block design was adopted, with the treatments arranged in a split-plots scheme. The plots consisted of three cropping systems: monoculture-Andropogon gayanus cv. Planaltina; mixture I-A. gayanus cv. Planaltina + Stylosanthes cv. Campo Grande; and mixture II-A. gayanus cv. Planaltina + Calopogonium mucunoides. The subplots consisted of two grazing cycles. The highest (P = 0.04) total forage mass (TFM) was recorded in the mixture I (A. gayanus cv. Planaltina + Stylosanthes. cv. Campo Grande), which was 2.6 ± 0.1 tons DM/ha. The crude protein (CP) was lower in the monoculture which also showed the highest content of neutral detergent fiber (NDF). The grazing time in the monoculture was the longest (8.23 ± 1.14 h). The goats used a longer time for rumination (P < 0.01) in the mixture I. The lowest (P < 0.01) bite rate was found in mixture II in comparison to the other cropping systems. The bite rate was higher (P < 0.01) in grazing cycle II than in all the other cropping systems. In mixture I, the Stylosanthes cv. Campo Grande, and in mixture II, the C. mucunoides presented the lowest (P < 0.01) δ 13 C value in the forage. The highest forage intake occurred in the mixture systems (P < 0.01) in comparison to the monoculture. The mixture pastures presented better results for forage mass, nutritive value, and intake in comparison to the monoculture.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the addition of Parkia platycephala pod meal (PP) and urea on the chemical composition, fermentation characteristics, and in situ ruminal degradability of elephant grass silage. A completely randomized design with a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement was adopted, with four levels of pod meal (0, 10, 20, and 30%) and two levels of urea (0 and 1.5%) on as fed basis. The produced silages were evaluated in terms of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), mineral matter (MM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), hemicellulose, ammonia nitrogen, pH, short chain fatty acids, and in situ ruminal degradability. For the study of degradation, four Santa Ines rumen fistulated sheep, with average weight of 45 ± 2.5 kg were used. The association of the additives increased (p < 0.05) DM, CP, DM degradability, fractions a, b, and effective degradability at all passage rates (2, 5, and 8%/h) and reduced NDF and ADF contents. DM disappearance increased (p < 0.05) during the incubation time, especially for the silages containing the two additives. The interaction in the rumen environment is essential for microbial multiplication. Thus, the use of additives such as PP and urea contributed to the availability of digestible fractions of the feed and greater use by ruminal microorganisms. The association of Parkia platycephala with urea improves the fermentation characteristics, chemical composition, and degradability of elephant grass silage.

Natural pastures are the primary sources of feed for ruminant in southwest Nigeria, but they are of poor quality. Oversowing of legumes could augment the nutrients supplied by the poor forages but this is rarely explored. Here, we oversowed two legumes (Stylosanthes guianensis cv. Cook and Stylosanthes hamata cv. Verano) into natural pasture using different tillage methods (zero-tillage and minimal tillage) and sowing methods (broadcast or drill), and examined their macro and trace minerals. We found that the two legumes produced similar (p > 0.05) calcium, phosphorus, and potassium in all treatments, while magnesium and sodium contents significantly differ (p < 0.05). The two legumes were generally rich in macrominerals far beyond the requirements of ruminants and low in trace mineral concentrations irrespective of the treatments imposed. Thus, we recommend oversowing of these two legumes into natural pasture for an adequate supply of major minerals and enhanced livestock productivity in the region of study and beyond. Other sources of trace minerals should be assessed if the natural pasture could not supply them.

The use of natural products together with standard antimicrobial drugs has recently received more attention as a strategy to combat infectious diseases caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) microorganisms. This study aimed to evaluate the capacity of a galactose-binding lectin from Vatairea macrocarpa seeds (VML) to modulate antibiotic activity against standard and MDR Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacterial strains. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) obtained for VML against all strains was not clinically relevant (MIC ≥ 1024 μg/mL). However, when VML was combined with the antibacterial drugs gentamicin, norfloxacin and penicillin, a significant increase in antibiotic activity was observed against S. aureus, whereas the combination of VML and norfloxacin presented decreased and, hence, antagonistic antibiotic activity against E. coli. By its inhibition of hemagglutinating activity, gentamicin (MIC = 50 mM) revealed its interaction with the carbohydrate-binding site (CBS) of VML. Using molecular docking, it was found that gentamicin interacts with residues that constitute the CBS of VML with a score of - 120.79 MDS. It is this interaction between the antibiotic and the lectin's CBS that may be responsible for the enhanced activity of gentamicin in S. aureus. Thus, our results suggest that the VML can be an effective modulating agent against S. aureus. This is the first study to report the effect of lectins as modulators of bacterial sensitivity, and as such, the outcome of this study could lay the groundwork for future research involving the use of lectins and conventional antibiotics against such infectious diseases such as community-acquired methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA).

The Tn antigen is an epitope containing N-acetyl-D-galactosamine present in the extracellular matrix of some carcinoma cells in humans, and it is often used as a biomarker. Lectins are proteins capable of binding to carbohydrates and can be used as a molecular tool to recognize antigens and to differentiate cancer cells from normal cells. In this context, the present work aimed to characterize the interaction of Vatairea guianensis seed lectin with N-acetyl-D-galactosamine and the Tn antigen by molecular dynamics and molecular mechanics/Poisson-Boltzmann solvent-accessible surface area analysis. This study revealed new interacting residues not previously identified in static analysis of the three-dimensional structures of Vatairea lectins, as well as the configuration taken by the carbohydrate recognition domain, as it interacts with each ligand. During the molecular dynamics simulations, Vatairea guianensis lectin was able to bind stably to Tn antigen, which, as seen previously for other lectins, enables its use in cancer research, diagnosis, and therapy. This work further demonstrates the efficiency of bioinformatics in lectinology.

To evaluate the effect of partial replacement of a concentrate with Daniellia oliveri (DO) foliage on voluntary intake, digestibility, nitrogen utilization, ruminal fermentation, and growth performance, twenty-four male goats (11.50 ± 0.52 kg live weight (LW)) were randomly assigned to one of three treatment diets in a completely randomized design. Increased levels of DO foliage (0, 250, and 500 g/kg on dry matter (DM) basis) were used to substitute the concentrate diet (control). Intakes of DM, crude protein (CP), organic matter (OM) and condensed tannins, nutrient digestibility, digestible OM fermented in the rumen, microbial protein supply, purine derivative excretion, ruminal pH, N retention, and average daily gain were greater (P < 0.05) for the DO diets than for the control diet. Cost/kg LW gain, DM digestibility, digestible DM, ruminal NH 3 -N and total N, and fecal, urinary, and total N excretion were greater (P < 0.05) in the control than in the DO diets. Digestible OM was lower (P < 0.05) for 250 g/kg concentrate replacement relative to 0 and 500 g/kg replacements. Digestible CP, energy concentrations, and volatile fatty acids were greater for 500 g/kg concentrate replacement compared with 0 and 250 g/kg concentrate replacements. In conclusion, concentrate replacement with 500 g/kg DO foliage improved goat performance.

Regenerative medicine proposes to regenerate or even replace human damaged tissues to return to normal functions. Hence, biomaterials have been used to provide appropriate environment for cell development. Among the groups of biodegradable biomaterials, hydrogels, which are characterized by three-dimensional and cross-linked networks of water-soluble polymers, have been highlighted as suitable matrices for such applications. An injectable hydrogel based on oxidized galactomannan (OxGM) from Delonix regia and N-succinyl chitosan (NSC) was developed and characterized according to its physicochemical and biocompatible properties. The hydrogel was formed by Schiff base (-CH = N-) cross-linking between aldehyde groups from OxGM and NH 2 groups from NSC, in few minutes (9.7 min) without any external stimulus. A hydrogel with macroporous structure, interconnected pores, and porosity of 69% was obtained. The biomaterial exhibited excellent injectability. No change in volume or integrity was observed in the hydrogel after its swelling in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) medium. This is an important property because when the hydrogel is injected into the site of interest and it fills the environment, it will not have additional space to occupy. Biocompatibility studies were conducted in vitro, which revealed the non-cytotoxic nature of the material and demonstrated the potential of the hydrogel based on dialdehyde galactomannan and N-succinyl chitosan for cell culture and soft tissue engineering.

Biogenic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) contribute to the communication, growth, breeding, and defense of plant; their role in plant kingdom is vital. Carob tree is cultivated mainly in Middle East and eastern European countries (e.g., Spain, Italy, Greece, Cyprus) and lately in Australia, the USA, and South Africa. Therefore, it is examined as a case study for its volatile emissions in the environment. Apart from the VOCs emitted from carob flowers and fruit, carob is considered of great interest for the food industry (carob powder), not only for its health benefits but also due to its characteristic strong aroma, which can be maintained even after processing (roasting). Solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME/GC-MS) analyses of carob flowers, fruit, and powder (commercial samples) were performed and the detected VOCs are presented and discussed. The most prominent chemical classes emitted from carob fruit and powder appeared to be acids followed by esters and aldehydes/ketones, whereas from carob flowers the terpenoids. The strongest VOCs both in carob fruits and powder were propanoic acid, 2-methyl (isobutyric acid) and in flowers ethanol. The uniqueness of carob benefits is well known in the agriculture, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food sector and is closely related to the agro-economy and long history of eastern Mediterranean countries.

In this study, we screened for the antifouling activity of 15 species plant extracts from Brazilian the Brazilian Caatinga Fabaceae against the initial colonization of natural marine bacterial biofilm. We also investigated the potential toxicity of extracts against planktonic and benthic non-target organisms. Aqueous extracts of plants collected in the Caatinga biome (PE, Brazil) were prepared and tested at different concentration levels (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 mg mL -1 ). Natural marine bacterial consortium was inoculated in multi-well plates and incubated with the different treatments for 48 h. The biofilm and planktonic bacterial density and biomass inhibition were evaluated along with biofilm biomass eradication. The extracts that showed the highest bacterial biofilm inhibition were evaluated for toxicity against microalgae and crustaceans. The biofilm and planktonic bacterial inhibition potential were evaluated through flow cytometry and spectrophotometry. The selected treatments were evaluated for their toxicity using the microalgae Chaetoceros calcitrans, the copepod Nitokra sp., and the brine shrimp Artemia salina as bioindicators. Our work demonstrates the biotechnological potential of Fabaceae plant compounds as a safe antifouling alternative. Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil fruits and Apuleia leiocarpa leaf extracts showed antibiofilm activity (≥ 80%), while Myroxylon peruiferum and Dioclea grandiflora leaf extracts showed antibiotic activity. These extracts were safe to planktonic and benthic non-target organisms. The results of this study point to potential substitutes to highly toxic antifouling paints and shed light on the prospect of a yet to be explored biome for more sustainable alternatives in biofouling research.

The objective of the present research was to determine the influence of various doses of the pellets containing DR seed meal (PEDEM) on in vitro CH 4 gas production, in vitro digestibility, protozoal count, and ruminal fermentation characteristics. The study was designed as a completely randomized design with eight levels of PEDEM supplementation at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 mg DM. Gas production rate constants for the insoluble fraction (c) and cumulative gas production at 96 h were quadratically increased when PEDEM was supplemented (P < 0.05). The concentration of NH 3 -N was linearly increased when the PEDEM concentration (P < 0.05) was increased, whereas the population of protozoa was linearly decreased when the level of PEDEM supplementation (P < 0.05) was increased. The supplementation of PEDEM in substrate quadratically affected the mean values of in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), and in vitro NDF digestibility (P < 0.05). TVFA, acetic acid (C2), and butyric acid (C4) were not altered by different doses of PEDEM supplementation (P > 0.05). In contrast, the concentration of propionic acid (C3) was quadratically affected with the supplementation of PEDEM (P = 0.05). The inclusion of PEDEM did not change the CH 4 concentration at 6 h of incubation (P > 0.05), whereas the CH 4 concentration at 24 h of incubation and the mean values were linearly reduced with additional doses of PEDEM (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the mean CH 4 concentration was reduced at 51.1% with 12 mg PEDEM, whereas 59.6% was reduced with 14 mg PEDEM supplementations. The supplementation of PEDEM at 12 mg has the potential to manipulate rumen fermentation, to manipulate in vitro digestibility and to reduce protozoa and CH 4 production.

The objective of this study was to contribute to the characterization of nutritional potentials, with special attention to the total phenol and condensed tannins content and the effects on in vitro digestibility of some browsing shrub legumes traditionally used for ruminant feeding. The varieties selected were Bituminaria bituminosa var. bituminosa (BBB), Bituminaria bituminosa var. albormaginata (BBA), Chamaecytisus proliferus var. palmensis (CPP), Chamaecytisus proliferus var. canariae (CPC), and Adenocarpus foliosus (AF). Chemical composition, in vitro digestibility, and net energy for lactation (NE) were analyzed and compared among varieties; the effects of total phenol (TP) and condensed tannins (CT) compounds on digestibility were estimated. Condensed tannins ranged from 1 to 5 g/kg DM of tannins, while total phenols ranged from 9 to 32 g/kg DM of tannins. In vitro organic matter digestibility (OMD) ranged from 0.52 to 0.71, and estimated net energy for lactation (NE) ranged from 4.2 to 5.8 MJ/kg DM, with significant differences among all the varieties. This Chamaecytisus varieties (CPC, CPP) have higher feeding values, following CPC > CPP > AF > BBB > BBA in order. Although there were condensed tannins and total phenols in all the shrubs analyzed, total phenol contents differed significantly between the shrubs. The effect of the content of the total phenols and of the tannins condensed in the OMD of the varieties of shrubs analyzed, shows that the higher amounts of total phenols in some of the varieties of shrubs analyzed, increased the in vitro digestibility (OMD) of the shrubs but high amounts of CT decreased OMD.

The subtribe Cajaninae of papilionoid legumes has a pantropical distribution and comprises approximately 490 species. These species have diversified throughout dry environments where there are high temperatures and strong light. The subtribe stands out because all its representatives have vesicular glands. In addition, bulbous-based and capitate trichomes are important secretory structures present in all genera of the Cajaninae. We analyzed the ultrastructure and histochemistry of these glandular trichome types in leaflets of the three species of the subtribe. Using transmission electron microscopy and histochemical analyses, we link the glandular secretions to subcellular structures. We here report for the first time the type of exudate and ultrastructure of the glands of subtribe Cajaninae. Terpenoids and phenolics were confirmed by histochemistry tests, and we observed that the organelles responsible for biosynthesis of oils are the most representative in these glands. Each glandular trichome showed particular ultrastructural features compatible with the compounds produced. We suggest that these glandular trichomes, with their respective exudates, act in defense against herbivory and against possible damage by ultraviolet radiation.

Bituminaria bituminosa (C.H. Stirt.) is a drought tolerant legume that grows spontaneously in subtropical areas: Canary Islands (Spain) and in North African and Mediterranean regions, traditionally used as forage for ruminants. The aim of this research was to investigate the potential of B. bituminosa as a high protein resource for poultry feed by means of feed intake, growth, feed conversion rate (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER), and the influence of B. bituminosa feed form (fresh green and dried) on the preference by chicks. B. bituminosa showed higher crude protein content (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and gross energy than commercial feed. Average daily feed intake (ADFI) for the commercial feed group (control group) was higher than ADFI of the B. bituminosa group (experimental group). However, both groups had no significant differences in total crude protein intake, total NDF intake, average daily gain (ADG), FCR, and PER. The poultry's preference for fresh green B. bituminosa was higher than for dry B. bituminosa. Our results suggest that B. bituminosa (tedera) could be an alternative feedstuff in tropical countries or where protein sources are scarce and costly.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a mixture of temperate and legume grasses with or without energy supplementation on the performance and feeding behavior of finishing beef steers. Eighteen Nellore-Zebu steers, average 23 months old and body weight (BW) of 380 kg, were used in a continuous grazing system, in a randomized block experimental design. Treatments were ORS: oat (Avena strigosa Schreb) + annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam) + supplementation with corn bran; ORVS: oat + ryegrass + vetch (Vicia sativa L.) + supplementation with corn bran; and ORV: oat + ryegrass + vetch. Evaluations were conducted on pasture (forage mass, sward height, herbage accumulation, botanical composition, and chemical composition) and animal (performance and ingestive behavior). Stocking rate and forage mass were greater in treatments with energy supplementation (ORVS and ORS), thus presenting greater sward heights compared to the treatment without supplementation. There was greater participation of oats and ryegrass when vetch was absent (ORS). The presence of supplement (ORS and ORVS) increased the presence of oat stem. The presence of the supplement caused the contribution of the vetch to be lower, likely because of the higher animal load of these treatments. The higher presence of vetch increased crude protein content in the ORV treatment. The ORS exhibited greater gain per area compared to the ORV. Supplemented animals had lower grazing and greater idle time. The ORS treatment animals spent more time in other activities and consumed supplementation and less time grazing than the other treatments. The absence of supplement (ORV) caused the animals to spend more time grazing. Animals not supplemented showed a higher duration of daily chewing, number of chews per minute, number of daily chews, daily number of bites, and station numbers.

The study evaluated effects of feeding Malawi Zebu steers with diets containing baobab (Adansonia digitata) seed meal and white thorn tree (Vachellia polyacantha) leaf-meal as alternative protein sources to soybean meal on dry matter intake (DMI), total tract nutrient digestibility, rumen microbial nitrogen supply and growth performance. Thirty Malawi Zebu steers (181 ± 21.4 kg and 29 months), put into individual pens, were randomly assigned to three treatments (10 steers per treatment) made up of rangeland hay and maize bran with either baobab seed meal (baobab diet), V. polyacantha leaf-meal (Vachellia diet), or soybean meal (soybean diet, control) as the protein source. Steers fed the soybean and baobab diets had higher (P ≤ 0.05) DMI, final BW, average daily gain (ADG), and total tract nutrient digestibility of DM, NDF, CP and crude fat than those fed the Vachellia diet. Steers fed the soybean diet had the highest feed conversion ratio followed by those fed the baobab and Vachellia diets, respectively (P ≤ 0.05). Steers fed the baobab diet had the highest rumen microbial N followed by the soybean- and Vachellia-fed steers in that order (P ≤ 0.05). Steers fed the baobab diet had higher microbial N supply, comparable DMI, ADG, FCR, and nutrient digestibility to the soybean diet. The baobab seed meal could be an alternative protein source to the soybean meal for beef production in Malawi.

Several treatment technologies are available for the treatment of palm oil mill wastes. Vermicomposting is widely recognized as efficient, eco-friendly methods for converting organic waste materials to valuable products. This study evaluates the effect of different vermicompost extracts obtained from palm oil mill effluent (POME) and palm-pressed fiber (PPF) mixtures on the germination, growth, relative toxicity, and photosynthetic pigments of mung beans (Vigna radiata) plant. POME contains valuable nutrients and can be used as a liquid fertilizer for fertigation. Mung bean seeds were sown in petri dishes irrigated with different dilutions of vermicomposted POME-PPF extracts, namely 50, 60, and 70% at varying dilutions. Results showed that at lower dilutions, the vermicompost extracts showed favorable effects on seed germination, seedling growth, and total chlorophyll content in mung bean seedlings, but at higher dilutions, they showed inhibitory effects. The carotenoid contents also decreased with increased dilutions of POME-PPF. This study recommends that the extracts could serve as a good source of fertilizer for the germination and growth enhancement of mung bean seedlings at the recommended dilutions.

The bark and the latex of plants constitute non-timber forest products (NTFPs) of medicinal and economic value that are widely harvested throughout the world. Bark and latex harvesting impacts on plant reproduction are controversial in the literature. Some species are negatively impacted, some do not show any response, and others may exhibit higher flower and fruit production after harvesting. In areas of rainforests and cerrado (tropical savanna) in northeastern Brazil, local people intensely remove the bark of Himatanthus drasticus (for latex collection) and Stryphnodendron rotundifolium for medicinal purposes. We aimed to investigate the short-term impact of harvesting upon reproductive effort of tree species, using those species as models. We assumed that bark harvesting negatively interferes in the reproductive capacity of plant species. Individuals of both species were harvested 2 months before blooming (treated) and the production of reproductive structures, physical characteristics of fruits and seeds, and the pre-emergent reproductive success were compared between treated and control (intact) individuals. All parameters of H. drasticus declined after bark removal, except pollen and ovule production. The only reproductive parameters of S. rotundifolium that were negatively affected were pollen and ovule production, and the pre-emergent reproductive success was higher in treatment individuals. We discuss the differences found between the species regarding responses to harvesting. Our results show that harvesting have short-term effects upon reproduction and may impair gene flow by affecting pollination and seed dispersal of tree species.

The adsorption behavior of basic, methylene blue (MB), and reactive, remazol brilliant violet 5R (RBV), dyes from aqueous solution onto Intsia bijuga sawdust-based activated carbon (IBSAC) was executed via batch and column studies. The produced activated carbon was characterized through Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area and pore structural analysis, proximate and ultimate, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Batch studies were performed to investigate the effects of contact time, initial concentration, and solution pH. The equilibrium data for both MB and RBV adsorption better fits Langmuir model with maximum adsorption capacity of 434.78 and 212.77 mg/g, respectively. Kinetic studies for both MB and RBV dyes showed that the adsorption process followed a pseudo-second-order and intraparticle diffusion kinetic models. For column mode, the breakthrough curves were plotted by varying the flow rate, bed height, and initial concentration and the breakthrough data were best correlated with the Yoon-Nelson model compared to Thomas and Adams-Bohart model. The adsorption activity of IBSAC shows good stability even after four consecutive cycles.

Desmosium styracifolium (D. styracifolium), which is considered as a Chinese herbal medicine, has been reported to treat the kidney stone diseases. However, the potential phytochemically active components and the underlying mechanisms associated with its efficacy in targeting urolithiasis remain to be elucidated. This study aims to investigate the anti-urolithiatic effect of total flavonoids of D. styracifolium (TFDS) on calcium oxalate (CaOx) renal stones in Sprague-Dawley rats. Animal models of CaOx urolithiasis were established in male Sprague-Dawley rats by adding 5% w/w hydroxy-L-proline (HLP) in regular rat chow. The TFDS orally at 100, 400 mg/kg, respectively, were administered along with HLP for 28 days. At the end of 28 days of treatment, urine and serum samples were collected for crystalluria determination and various biochemical analysis. Kidney tissues were isolated and processed for antioxidant parameters measurement and histopathological examinations. HLP-induced hyperoxaluria alone reliably caused CaOx nephrolithiasis in rats. We showed that TFDS significantly reduced crystalluria and CaOx crystal deposits in the kidney sections as compared to untreated HLP group. Also, TFDS was observed to decrease urinary oxalate excretion, alleviate the pro-acidosis condition, improve the impaired renal functions and renal epithelial cell injury. Moreover, TFDS protected against the oxidative stress changes via reducing MDA content, increasing CAT and GSH-Px activities in renal homogenate, as well as attenuating the expression of MCP-1, OPN and TGF-β proteins. These results indicated that TFDS had beneficial effect on inhibition of CaOx formation in the rat kidney probably through a combination of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, urine alkalinizing activities, and lowering the concentration of urinary stone-forming constituents. Thus, TFDS might have clinical implications in preventing oxidative renal cell injury and, ultimately, kidney stone formation. The data provide a rationale for the medicinal use of TFDS in nephrolithiasis and identify this agent as a potential source of new antiurolithic drugs.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the mechanism of total flavone of Desmodium styracifolium (TFDS) in regulating the formation of urinary calculi. Protein levels of KIM-1, LC3-II, p-p38 were measured by Western blot. The effect of different COM concentrations, different TFDS concentrations, SB203580 (specific inhibitor of p38/MAPK), and overexpression of KIM-1 on cell viability were detected by WST-1 assay. The apoptotic cells and FITC positive cells were detected by flow cytometry. HK-2 cell viability decreased with the increase of COM concentration, and the protein levels of KIM-1, LC3-II, and p-p38 increased with the time. Blocking the p38/MAPK pathway or co-cultured with TFDS inhibited the effects of COM on apoptosis and autophagy of HK-2 cells. In addition, blocking the p38/MAPK pathway inhibited the expression of KIM-1. In COM-induced cells, after treated with SB203580, overexpression of KIM-1 could reverse the protection effect of SB203580 on COM-induced cell damage and the inhibition of SB203580 on COM-induced excessive autophagy, suggesting p38/MAPK regulated KIM-1 to regulate COM-induced cell apoptosis and autophagy. Finally, we proved that TFDS inhibited p38/MAPK pathway. And the protection effect of COM-induced cell injury increased with the increase of TFDS concentration, and the adhesion between COM and cells decreased with the increase of TFDS concentration. With the increase of the concentration of TFDS, p38/MAPK pathway was gradually inhibited, and KIM-1 and autophagy related proteins were decreased. TFDS inhibited HK-2 cell apoptosis and autophagy by regulating KIM-1 via p38/MAPK pathway.

Mosquito-borne diseases lead to serious public health concerns in tropical and sub-tropical countries worldwide, due to development of mosquito resistance to synthetic pesticides, non-target effects of pesticides, and socioeconomic reasons. Currently, green nanotechnology is a promising research field, showing a wide range of potential applications in vector control programs. The employ of natural products as reducing agents to fabricate insecticidal nanocomposites is gaining research attention worldwide, due to low costs and high effectiveness. Interestingly, biophysical features of green-synthesized nanoparticles strongly differ when different botanicals are employed for nanosynthesis. In this study, a cheap Acacia caesia leaf extract was employed to fabricate silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) with ovicidal, larvicidal, and adulticidal toxicity against three mosquito vectors, Anopheles subpictus, Aedes albopictus, and Culex tritaeniorhynchus. Ag NPs were analyzed by various biophysical methods, including spectroscopy (UV-visible spectrophotometry, XRD, FTIR, EDX) and microscopy (SEM, TEM, AFM) techniques. High acute larvicidal potential was observed against larvae of An. subpictus (LC 50  = 10.33 μg/ml), Ae. albopictus (LC 50  = 11.32 μg/ml), and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus (LC 50  = 12.35 μg/ml). Ag NPs completely inhibited egg hatchability on three vectors at 60, 75, and 90 μg/ml, respectively. In adulticidal assays, LD 50 values were 18.66, 20.94, and 22.63 μg/ml. If compared to mosquito larvae, Ag NPs were safer to three non-target aquatic biocontrol agents, with LC 50 ranging from 684 to 2245 μg/ml. Overall, our study highlights the potential of A. caesia as an abundant and cheap bioresource to fabricate biogenic Ag NPs effective against mosquito young instars and adults, with moderate impact on non-target aquatic biocontrol agents.

Copaiba oil is used as a popular medicine in the Amazonian forest region, especially due to its anti-inflammatory properties. In this paper, we describe the formulation of hydrogel containing copaiba oil nanoemulsions (with positive and negative charges), its skin permeation, and its anti-inflammatory activity in two in vivo models: mouse ear edema and rat paw edema. Three hydrogels were tested (Carbopol ® , hydroxyethylcellulose and chitosan), but only Carbopol ® and hydroxyethylcellulose hydrogels presented good stability and did not interfere with the nanoemulsions droplet size and polydispersity index. In skin permeation assay, both formulations, positively charged nanoemulsion (PCN) and negatively charged nanoemulsion (NCN), presented a high retention in epidermis (9.76 ± 2.65 μg/g and 7.91 ± 2.46 μg/cm 2 , respectively) followed by a smaller retention in the dermis (2.43 ± 0.91 and 1.95 ± 0.56 μg/cm 2 , respectively). They also presented permeation to the receptor fluid (0.67 ± 0.22 and 1.80 ± 0.85 μg/cm 2 , respectively). In addition, anti-inflammatory effect was observed to NCN and PCN with edema inhibitions of 69 and 67% in mouse ear edema and 32 and 72% in rat paw edema, respectively. Histological cuts showed the decrease of inflammatory factors, such as dermis and epidermis hyperplasia and inflammatory cells infiltration, confirming the anti-inflammatory effect from both copaiba oil nanoemulsions incorporated in hydrogel.

The aim of our study is to find functional compounds from natural resources. We focus on plants grown in tropical areas, especially Madagascar and Thailand, because they have unique flora and are expected to contain interesting compounds. We review the functional compounds of the seed kernels of Entada phaseoloides and E. rheedei and their biological activities such as anti-proliferation and melanogenesis inhibitory properties, etc.

The effects of partial replacement of dietary protein by forages on rumen fermentation and microbiology in goats were examined. Four fistulated Boer bucks were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. The goats were fed 60% of urea-treated rice straw and 40% dietary treatment (Kleinhovia hospita (KH), Leucaena leucocephala (LL), mixture of K. hospita with L. leucocephala (KHLL)) and concentrate as the control. Rumen fluid from the animals was collected at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 12 h postprandial for analysis. The KHLL diet had a greater (P < 0.05) molar proportion of acetate than the control diet throughout the sampling period. At 6 h postprandial, the KHLL goats had a significantly lower (P < 0.05) ammonia nitrogen than the goats fed other diets. The molar proportion of propionate (24.7 and 25.8 mol/100 mol) was greater in the rumen of KHLL goats compared with those fed other diets at 2 and 12 h postprandial, respectively. The KHLL diet had lower (P < 0.05) butyrate than other dietary treatments. At 4 h postprandial, the control goats had a lower (P < 0.05) population of total bacteria while the KHLL goats had a greater (P < 0.05) population at 4 and 12 h postprandial compared with those fed other diets. The LL, KH, and KHLL goats had lower (P < 0.05) populations of protozoa and methanogens and a greater (P < 0.05) population of Ruminococcus albus compared with the control goats. The KHLL leaves could be fed to goats without compromising rumen metabolism.

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of supplementing increasing levels of dried tagasaste (Chamaecytisus palmensis) leaf on the nutrition and performance of sheep fed a basal diet of barley straw. The study had four treatments, which involved supplementation of dried tagasaste leaf at 100, 200, 300, and 400 g/day. Twenty-four yearling Menz sheep (weight 17 ± 0.83 kg) were assigned to one of the four treatments in a randomized complete block design. The experiment comprised a feeding trial lasting for 90 days, a digestibility trial, and carcass evaluation using all animals. Samples of the feed consumed, refused, and feces were analyzed for nutrients. Intake and digestibility of dry matter (DM) and nutrients increased linearly (P < 0.001) as tagasaste supplementation increased from 100 to 400 g/day. Similarly, average daily body weight gain increased linearly (P < 0.001) from 20 to 73 g/day, feed conversion efficiency from 0.04 to 0.10, and dressing percentage from 40 to 48%, as the supplementation increased from 100 to 400 g/day. Proportion of tagasaste leaf in the diet increased from 20 to 50%, while the ratio of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) to crude protein (CP) decreased from 7.9 to 5.3, as the level of supplementation increased. It was thus concluded that supplementation of dried tagasaste leaf up to 50% of the diet DM, resulting in a NDF:CP ratio of 5.3, produces no deleterious effects on the performance of sheep, and inclusion to this level can be applied for superior growth performance and carcass yield in sheep fed crop residue-based diets.

Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. is a tropical leguminous shrub widely regarded as an invasive species in Cuba, after having invaded a significant proportion of its arable land during the past decades. Concurrently, smallholder pig producers are highly constrained by the scarcity of protein feeds. This study aimed to assess the feeding value of D. cinerea pod meal (DCPM) as an alternative protein supplement for pigs in Cuban smallholder production systems. An on-farm feeding trial was carried out with three groups (N = 10) of growing-fattening pigs over 60 days, where DCPM replaced 0, 15, and 30% in DM of a dietary commercial concentrate. Then, in an in vivo digestibility trial with eight growing pigs, apparent digestibilities of DCPM were determined for dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM) and crude protein (CP). Finally, in vitro digestibilities for OM (fecal and ileal) and CP (ileal) were determined. In the feeding trial, pig body weight gains were not affected by increased dietary substitution levels of concentrate for DCPM. Blood parameters, with a few exceptions, did not show significant differences among groups. Values for in vivo OM and CP digestibilities were 40.81 and 50.26%, and substantially higher than in vitro values. In conclusion, our results showed that at least 30% of DM in commercial concentrate could be substituted by DCPM without affecting pig growth performances under Cuban smallholder conditions. The low digestibility of DCPM is, however, not acceptable for intensive pig production systems. In vitro enzyme digestibility methods developed for commercial pig feeds are not suitable for DCPM without further calibration.

This study investigated the effect of replacing alfalfa hay by subabul leaf meal (SLM) on digestion, fermentation parameters and rumen bacteria and fungi activity of Najdi goats. Six Najdi goats (150 ± 15 days of age and initial body weight of 35 ± 1.1 kg) were randomly assigned to one of two dietary treatments in a balanced completely randomized design (three goats per treatment) for 56 days. Experimental treatments included alfalfa hay as control group and diet containing SLM (SLM replacing alfalfa hay at 50% level). Bacterial and fungi activity and rumen fermentation parameters of animals fed experimental diets were determined. Dry matter disappearance (DMD) was unaffected by replacing SLM with alfalfa hay for both rumen bacteria and fungi in different incubation times, except for 48 h of incubation in specific culture medium of mixed rumen bacteria, which decreased for SLM group (P > 0.05). NDF disappearance (NDFD) and ADF disappearance (ADFD) after 24 and 48 h of incubation in specific culture medium of mixed rumen bacteria was not affected by experimental diets (P > 0.05). However, 72 h after incubation, NDFD in SLM treatment decreased (P > 0.05). Gas production parameters of rumen bacteria were similar for both experimental diets, but partitioning factor (PF), efficiency microbial biomass production (EMBP), microbial protein production (MP), and organic matter truly digested (OMTD) decreased (p < 0.05) in specific culture medium of mixed rumen fungi for SLM diet. There was significant decrease in total protozoa population for diet containing SLM (p < 0.05). Results indicated that replacement of alfalfa hay by SLM had no major effect on rumen microorganisms' activity of Najdi goats, so it may be used as an alternative for alfalfa (at 50% level) in susceptible areas.

Genistein, a major source of phytoestrogen exposure for humans and animals, has been shown to mediate neuroprotection in Alzheimer's disease and status epilepticus. In the present study, we investigated the effect of genistein on pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures in ovariectomized mice and the possible involvement of estrogenic and serotonergic pathways in the probable effects of genistein. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of genistein (10 mg/kg) significantly increased the seizure threshold 30 min prior to induction of seizures 14 days after ovariectomy surgery. Administration of fulvestrant (1 mg/kg, i.p.), an estrogen receptor antagonist, completely reversed the anticonvulsant effect of genistein (10 mg/kg) in ovariectomized mice. Administration of the antagonist of serotonin receptor (5-HT3), tropisetron (10 mg/kg, i.p.), eliminated the anticonvulsant effect of genistein, whereas co-administration of m-chlorophenylbiguanide (5-HT3 receptor agonist; 1 mg/kg) and a non-effective dose of genistein (5 mg/kg) increased the seizure threshold. To conclude, it seems that estrogenic/serotonergic systems might be involved in the anticonvulsant properties of genistein.

Forty-five Pelibuey sheep were experimentally infested with nematodes to evaluate the effect of three free condensed tannin (FCT) levels of Lysiloma acapulcensis on fecal egg counts (FECs), packed cell volumes (PCV), ocular mucosa colors (OMC), average daily gain (ADG), and adult nematode count. Five treatments were used: 12.5, 25.0, and 37.5 mg of FCT kg -1 of body weight (BW); sterile water (control); and ivermectine (0.22 mg kg -1 of BW) as chemical group. The data were processed through repeated measurement analysis. Even though the three FCT doses decreased (P < 0.05) the FEC, the highest reduction was obtained with 37.5 mg kg -1 of BW. No differences were observed in PCV and OMC. Higher ADG (P < 0.05) was observed with 37.5 mg kg -1 of BW of FCT. The count of adult nematodes (females and males) in the higher dose of FCT was similar to chemical treatment. Dose of 37.5 mg kg -1 of BW decreased the parasite infection and improved the lamb performance. Therefore, this dose could be used as a nutraceutic product in sheep production.

Seeds of Securigera securidaca (Fabaceae) are used in Iranian folk medicine as an antidiabetic treatment. In this study, the antihyperglycemic activity of chloroform and methanol fractions (CF and MF) from S. securidaca seed extract was investigated and their bioactive constituents were identified. The antidiabetic effects of fractions were assessed by streptozocin-induced diabetic Naval Medical Research Institute mice. The hypoglycemic activity of MF at 100 mg/kg and CF at 400 mg/kg was comparable with glibenclamide (3 mg/kg). MF at 400 mg/kg and CF at 600 mg/kg showed equal hypoglycemic responses to 12.5 IU/kg insulin (P > 0.05). Three cardiac glycosides were isolated as active constituents responsible for the hypoglycemic activity. Securigenin-3- O -β-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-xylopyranoside (1) was a major compound in seeds. Securigenin-3- O -inositol-(1 → 3)-β-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-xylopyranoside (2) and securigenin-3- O -α-rhamnopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-α-glucopyranoside (3) were found as new natural products. When 1-3 were tested at 10 mg/kg there was a significant reduction of blood glucose levels in diabetic mice, comparable to that of 3 mg/kg glibenclamide (P > 0.05). The hypoglycemic effect was due to an increase in insulin secretion; the insulin levels in the diabetic mice significantly improved and were comparable with those in healthy animals (P > 0.05). Compounds responsible for the hypoglycemic properties of S. securidaca seeds were identified as cardiac glycosides and were found to act via an increase of insulin levels in a diabetic mouse model.

Deep eutectic solvents (DES) are potential ecofriendly surfactants for the preparation of materials. In this study, both molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) and mesoporous siliceous materials (MSMs) were modified by betaine-based DES. Six materials were employed as solid phase extraction (SPE) adsorbents for the rapid purification of levofloxacin. The DES-based materials showed better selective adsorption than the conventional materials. The adsorption curves of DES-MIP showed superior molecular recognition ability and binding capability for levofloxacin compared to the other materials. The limit of detection and limit of quantitation of the method were 0.01 and 0.03 μg/mL for levofloxacin, respectively. The method recoveries at three spiked levels were 97.2 - 100.2% for DES-MIP, with an RSD <1.8%. DES-MIP showed the highest selective recovery (95.2%) for levofloxacin from the green bean extract, and could remove the interferent effectively.

Cover crop species are usually grown to control weeds. After cover crop harvest, crop residue is applied on the ground to improve soil fertility and crop productivity. Little information is available about quantifying the contributions of cover crop application to soil total carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) contents in temperate Australia. Here, we selected eight cover crop treatments, including two legume crops (vetch and field pea), four non-legume crops (rye, wheat, Saia oat, and Indian mustard), a mixture of rye and vetch, and a nil-crop control in temperate Australia to calculate the contributions of cover crops (crop growth + residue decomposition) to soil C and N contents. Cover crops were sown in May 2009 (autumn). After harvest, the crop residue was placed on the soil surface in October 2009. Soil and crop samples were collected in October 2009 after harvest and in May 2010 after 8 months of residue decomposition. We examined cover crop residue biomass, soil and crop total C and N contents, and soil microbial biomass C and N contents. The results showed that cover crop application increased the mean soil total C by 187-253 kg ha -1 and the mean soil total N by 16.3-19.1 kg ha -1 relative to the nil-crop treatment, except for the mixture treatment, which had similar total C and N contents to the nil-crop control. Cover crop application increased the mean soil microbial biomass C by 15.5-20.9 kg ha -1 and the mean soil microbial biomass N by 4.5-10.2 kg ha -1 . We calculated the apparent percentage of soil total C derived from cover crop residue C losses and found that legume crops accounted for 10.6-13.9 %, whereas non-legume crops accounted for 16.4-18.4 % except for the mixture treatment (0.2 %). Overall, short-term cover crop application increased soil total C and N contents and microbial biomass C and N contents, which might help reduce N fertilizer use and improve sustainable agricultural development.

The common grass yellow butterfly, Eurema mandarina (formerly Eurema hecabe mandarina) (Lepidoptera, Pieridae), recently has been separated taxonomically from a subtropical population of Eurema hecabe in Japan. This species is widely distributed in the temperate region of Japan, and feeds mainly on various ligneous plants within the Fabaceae. We attempted to identify an oviposition stimulant for E. mandarina from its primary hosts, Albizia julibrissin and Lespedeza cuneata. In both hosts, crude extract and an aqueous fraction elicited oviposition responses from gravid females. A polar subfraction of the aqueous fraction also stimulated high oviposition-stimulatory activity, comparable to the original aqueous fraction, suggesting that E. mandarina females use water-soluble compounds for host recognition. Subsequent activity-directed fractionation by ion exchange chromatography indicated that one of the key substances was contained in the neutral/amphoteric fraction. Chemical analyses revealed that the active fractions of both hosts contained D-(+)-pinitol as the major component. We examined female responses to authentic D-pinitol and found that it induced oviposition responses at concentrations greater than 0.1 %. Since this cyclitol is omnipresent in Fabaceae, we conclude that D-pinitol plays a role in mediating oviposition of E. mandarina on fabaceous plants.

Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is considered a pest of maize crops throughout the Western Hemisphere. We report on the effects of aqueous extracts of leaves and bark of Copaifera langsdorffii (Fabaceae) on the biology of S. frugiperda, as an alternative source of natural bioactive molecules for the sustainable management of this pest. Second instars were sprayed with aqueous extracts prepared with 5% (w/v) plant material and/or fed on an artificial diet containing extracts at a concentration equivalent to 0.25% (w/v) for 17 days. Both leaf and bark extracts of C. langsdorffii significantly reduced S. frugiperda food intake, feces, and larval weight and caused a delay in larval development. Additionally, C. langsdorffii-based extracts increased the oviposition period; induced morphological changes in the eggs, including deformation of the corium and malformation of the micropylar and aeropylar regions; and reduced egg viability. But, aqueous extracts of C. langsdorffii exhibited no negative effects on larval and pupal survival, duration of the pupal stage, survival of pupae, sex ratio, longevity, duration of pre-oviposition period, and female fecundity. Aqueous extracts of leaves and bark of C. langsdorffii are promising alternatives for the control of S. frugiperda in maize crops.

Parkinsonia aculeata L. (Caesalpiniaceae) is a traditional ethnomedicine and has been used for the empiric treatment of hyperglycemia, without scientific background. Mechanistic analyses at molecular level from the antioxidant mechanism observed by P. aculeata are required. Herein the effects of the treatment by hydroethanolic extract partitioned with ethyl acetate of P. aculeata aerial parts (HEPa/EtOAc) in mice fed a high-fat diet that share many obesity phenotypes with humans were evaluated. The animals were treated orally with HEPa/EtOAc (125 and 250 mg/kg/day) and pioglitazone (5 mg/kg/day), for 16 days. After the treatment, HEPa/EtOAc reduced fasting serum glucose and insulin levels, as well as homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance. In addition, an improvement in glucose intolerance was also observed. Indeed, a reduction in the circulating levels of TNF-α and IL-6 was also observed. Furthermore, at molecular level, it was demonstrated that the HEPa/EtOAc treatment was able to improve these physiological parameters, through the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) per si, as well as the enhancement of antioxidant mechanism by an increase in PPARγ/Cu(2+), Zn(2+)-superoxide dismutase (CuZn-SOD) axis expression in liver and adipose tissue. In sum, P. aculeata is effective to improve insulin resistance in a mouse model of obesity and this effect seems to involve the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms through the increase in PPARγ/CuZn-SOD axis expression.

The objective of this experiment was to determine effects of Leucaena silage (LS) feeding on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, and rumen fermentation in dairy steers. Four rumen fistulated dairy steers, 167 ± 12 kg body weight (BW), were randomly assigned to receive dietary treatments according to a 4 × 4 Latin square design. Treatments were as follows: T1 = 100 % untreated rice straw (RS), T2 = 70 % RS + 30 % LS, T3 = 40 % RS + 60 % LS, and T4 = 100 % LS, respectively. All animals were fed rice straw and LS ad libitum with concentrate mixture supplemented at 0.2 % BW. The results found that dry matter intake and nutrient digestibility were the highest in dairy steers fed 60 % LS (P < 0.05). Ruminal temperature and pH were not affected by LS feeding (P > 0.05) while ruminal ammonia nitrogen and blood urea nitrogen concentration were linearly increased with increasing levels of LS feeding (P < 0.01). On the other hand, total volatile fatty acids and propionate (C3) were improved by LS feeding especially in steers fed 60 % LS (P < 0.05) whereas acetate (C2) production and C2/C3 ratio were decreased. Moreover, methane production was reduced together with increasing LS feeding level (P < 0.05). Based on this study, it could be concluded that 60 % LS feeding could enhance feed intake, digestibility, and rumen fermentation end-product while reducing methane production in dairy steers. This study suggested that LS could be used as high-quality roughage for ruminant feeding in the tropical region.

The partial substitution of soybean meal by Gliricidia sepium or Guazuma ulmifolia leaves in the rations of growing lambs was evaluated at an experimental station in the dry tropics of Mexico. Sixteen weaned crossbred male Pelibuey × Blackbelly lambs (initial weight 19 ± 1.66 kg), distributed in a completely randomized design, were assigned to the following protein sources: (a) 100% soybean meal, (b) 50% soybean meal + 50% G. sepium, (c) 50 % soybean meal + 25% G. ulmifolia + 25% G. sepium, and (d) 50% soybean meal + 50% G. ulmifolia in isoproteic rations. The lambs were housed in individual pens and fed ad libitum. Substitution of protein from soybean meal with G. ulmifolia did not affect gain, intake, or feed conversion; however, the inclusion of G. sepium reduced (linear effect, P < 0.01) gain and intake and impaired feed conversion (linear effect, P < 0.01). Partial substitution up to 50% of soybean meal with 50% G. ulmifolia leaves resulted in similar growth and lamb performance, but inclusion of G. sepium leaves adversely affected lamb growth, presumably due to other factors not related to the protein content.

The in vitro antioxidant properties, cytoprotective activity, and ability to induce nuclear translocation of nuclear factor E2-related factor-2 (Nrf-2) of five solvent fractions of the methylene chloride/methanol (1:1 v/v) extract of Khaya grandifoliola (Meliaceae) and Entada africana (Fabaceae) were evaluated. Five antioxidant endpoints were used in the antioxidant activity investigation. The total phenolic content of the fractions was assessed as to the Folin-Ciocalteu method and the profile of interesting fractions analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The cytoprotective activity of fractions was determined by H2O2-induced oxidative stress in HC-04 cells by measuring lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage into culture medium. HC-04 cells were used to investigate the ability to induce nuclear translocation of Nrf2. For both plants, the methylene chloride/methanol (90/10; v/v) fraction (F10), methylene chloride/methanol (75/25; v/v) (F25), and the methanolic fraction (F100) were found to have the highest total polyphenol content and exhibited high antioxidant activity strongly correlated with total polyphenol content. The cytoprotective activity of fraction F25 from both plants was comparable to that of quercetin (3.40 ± 0.05 μg/mL), inhibiting LDH leakage with a low half inhibition concentration (IC50) of 4.05 ± 0.03 and 3.8 ± 0.02 μg/mL for K. grandifoliola and E. africana, respectively. Lastly, fraction F25 of K. grandifoliola significantly (P < 0.05) induced nuclear Nrf2 translocation by sixfold, whereas that from E. africana and quercetin was only twofold. The results indicate for the first time that fraction F25 of the studied plants is more antioxidant and cytoprotective and induces nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in a human hepatocyte cell line.

Desmodium styracifolium (D. styracifolium) has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of urolithiasis. This work was undertaken to investigate extracts from different polarity fractions of D. styracifolium for possible antilithic effects as well as antioxidant potential to explore the underlying phytochemically active constituents of this plant. The extracts of D. styracifolium were divided into four different polarity fractions by petroleum ether (Fr. PE), chloroform (Fr. CH), ethyl acetate (Fr. EA), and n-butyl alcohol (Fr. NB). The antilithic and antioxidant effects were evaluated and compared in vivo on an animal model of calcium oxalate (CaOx) urolithiasis, which was established by administration of 1 % ethylene glycol along with 2 % ammonium chloride in drinking water for 28 days. A total of 60 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups: normal control group, lithogenic group, and four different polarity fractions of D. styracifolium-treated groups. At the end of the study, urine, blood, and kidney tissue samples were all collected for evaluation. Among the four polarity fractions of D. styracifolium extracts, the Fr. PE and Fr. NB treatment significantly reduced the CaOx crystal deposition in kidneys, prevented the renal toxic changes like pH, Cr, and BUN. In addition, Fr. PE and Fr. NB treatment significantly decreased urinary excretion of oxalate along with a increase of citrate excretion. The increased amounts of malondialdehyde and decreased activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase were detected in lithogenic group, D. styracifolium extracts treatment prevented the oxidative stress changes especially for the Fr. PE and Fr. NB extracts. In conclusion, our data suggest that the extracts from D. styracifolium possess the antiurolithic activity, possibly mediated through the inhibition of CaOx crystal aggregation as well as the alleviation of oxidative injury in the kidney, and the Fr. PE and Fr. NB extracts are the active fractions of D. styracifolium extract.

The restoration of the epidermal epithelium through re-epithelialization is a critical process in wound healing. Directed keratinocyte migration to the wound is required, and the retardation of this process may result in a chronic, non-healing wound. The present study contributes to research aiming to identify promising compounds that promote wound healing using a human keratinocyte model. The effects of three kaempferol glycosides from an Afgekia mahidoliae leaf extract, kaempferol-3-O-arabinoside, kaempferol-3-O-glucoside, and kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, on keratinocyte migration were determined. Interestingly, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside exhibited a pronounced effect on wound closure in comparison to the parental kaempferol and other glycosides. The mechanism by which kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside enhances cell migration involves the induction of filopodia and lamellipodia formation, increased cellular levels of phosphorylated FAK (Tyr 397) and phosphorylated Akt (Ser 473), and up-regulation of active Rac1-GTP. The data obtained in this study may support the development of this compound for use in wound healing therapies.

Total selenium (Se) contents were determined in aboveground biomass of wild plant species growing in two uncultivated meadows at two different locations. The soils in these locations had pseudototal (Aqua Regia soluble) Se in concentration ranges of between 0.2 and 0.3 mg kg(-1) at the first location, and between 0.7 and 1.4 mg kg(-1) at the second location. The plant species represented 29 plant families where the most numerous ones were Poaceae, Rosaceae, Fabaceae , and Asteraceae. The selenium contents in the plants varied between undetectable levels (Aegopodium podagraria, Achillea millefolium, Lotus corniculatus) and 0.158 mg kg(-1) (Veronica arvensis, Veronicaceae). The Se levels were roughly one order of magnitude lower compared to other elements with similar soil content, such as cadmium and molybdenum. The transfer factors of Se, quantifying the element transfer from soil to plants, varied between <0.001 and 0.146 with no significant differences between the locations, confirming the limited soil-plant selenium transfer regardless of location, soil Se level, and plant species. Among the plant families, no unambiguous trend to potential elevated Se uptake was observed. Low Se content in the soil and its plant availability was comparable to other Se-deficient areas within Europe.

Meeting the food demands and ensuring nutritional security of the ever increasing global population in the face of degrading natural resource base and impending climate change is the biggest challenge of the twenty first century. The consequences of mineral/micronutrient deficiencies or the hidden hunger in the developing world are indeed alarming and need urgent attention. In addressing the problems associated with mineral/micronutrient deficiency, grain legumes as an integral component of the farming systems in the developing world have to play a crucial role. For resource-poor populations, a strategy based on selecting and/or developing grain legume cultivars with grains denser in micronutrients, by biofortification, seems the most appropriate and attractive approach to address the problem. This is evident from the on-going global research efforts on biofortification to provide nutrient-dense grains for use by the poorest of the poor in the developing countries. Towards this end, rapidly growing genomics technologies hold promise to hasten the progress of breeding nutritious legume crops. In conjunction with the myriad of expansions in genomics, advances in other 'omics' technologies particularly plant ionomics or ionome profiling open up novel opportunities to comprehensively examine the elemental composition and mineral networks of an organism in a rapid and cost-effective manner. These emerging technologies would effectively guide the scientific community to enrich the edible parts of grain legumes with bio-available minerals and enhancers/promoters. We believe that the application of these new-generation tools in turn would provide crop-based solutions to hidden hunger worldwide for achieving global nutritional security.

The present study aimed to investigate the metabolism of Entadae Semen by human fecal bacteria to clarify the relationship between its pharmacological activities and intestinal metabolism. Three major components (phaseoloidin, entadamide A-β-D-glucopyranoside and entadamide A) were isolated and identified from Entadae Semen and then incubated with human fecal microflora in vitro to investigate the metabolic processes. The metabolites were analyzed with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The anti-complement activities of the three components and their metabolites produced by human fecal microflora were evaluated in vitro using a hemolysis assay. Phaseoloidin and entadamide A-β-D-glucopyranoside were metabolized into their respective aglycones during the incubation process, which enhanced their anti-complement effects. These results indicated that the presence of intestinal bacteria likely plays an important role and that the pharmacological effects of Entadae Semen may be dependent on intestinal bacterial metabolism.

The effects of four tropical forage legume hays (Vigna unguiculata, Psophocarpus scandens, Pueraria phaseoloides and Stylosanthes guianensis) on voluntary feed intake (VFI) and their nutritive value were studied in growing pigs using a corn-soybean meal-based diet containing varying proportions of forage legume hays (0, 10, 20 and 40 % or 0, 12.5 and 25 % for VFI and nutritive value determination, respectively). There was no difference in VFI between species (P > 0.20), but a linear response to forage inclusion level (P < 0.05) was observed decreasing from 126 for 0 % to approximately 84 g/kg of body weight for the 40 % forage diets, except for V. unguiculata, where the response was quadratic (P = 0.01). All four forage species linearly decreased the total tract apparent digestibility (TTAD) from 0.76 to 0.61, 0.80 to 0.68, 0.54 to 0.40 and 0.58 to 0.31 except for S. guianensis (0.44) for DM, N, NDF and N retention, respectively. Differences in digestibility (P < 0.05) between species were also observed. Due to their negative influence on the overall digestibility, the contribution of hays should not exceed 12.5 %, except for S. guianensis, in which N retention remained quite high (0.44) at the highest inclusion level (25 %). P. phaseoloides hay should be avoided in pigs as it combines the lowest VFI with the lowest nutrient digestibility.