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Associations between bryophytes and dinitrogen (N2)-fixing bacteria are a significant source of exogenous N in unmanaged boreal and possibly temperate ecosystems. However, the extent to which biological N2-fixation (BNF) applies to the boreal–temperate ecotone remains elusive. The current focus on common species limits our understanding of BNF at the community level. Our objective was to characterize the presence of cyanobacteria and BNF activity associated with bryophytes in the coastal forests of Fundy National Park (New Brunswick, Canada). In 2021, we harvested three liverwort and 11 moss species from two sites (71 samples) and measured environmental covariates (e.g., canopy composition and soil pH). We used stable isotope incubations with 15N2 gas in growth chambers to quantify potential BNF activity and used phycocyanin extractions as a cyanobacteria abundance proxy. Many species presented detectable BNF rates, which were similar to or higher than those of well-studied feather mosses. These included species that have rarely been found to contribute to BNF. While cyanobacteria were present on most samples, we found no positive association between abundance and BNF. Our findings are among the first records for bryophyte-associated BNF in the boreal–temperate ecotone of eastern Canada and offer insights into the potential role of this process in N cycling in coastal conifer-dominated forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is a cyanobacterium associated with multiple health benefits. Cardiometabolic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and diabetes are prevalent yet usually preventable non-communicable diseases. Modifiable risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases include excessive body weight, body inflammation, atherogenic lipid profile, and imbalanced glucose metabolism. This review explores the effects of spirulina on cardiometabolic diseases risk factors. Spirulina was effective in reducing body weight, body mass index, and waist circumference, with a potential dose-dependent effect. It also decreased interleukin 6, an important biomarker of body inflammation, by inhibiting NADPH oxidase enzyme, and lowering insulin resistance. spirulina supplementation also reduced triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Additionally, spirulina reduced fasting blood sugar and post-prandial blood sugar and increased insulin sensitivity, but no effect was observed on glycated hemoglobin A1c. The diverse nutrients, such as phycocyanin, gamma-linolenic acid, and vitamin B12, present in spirulina contribute to its cardiometabolic benefits. The doses used are heterogeneous for most studies, ranging from 1 to 8 grams daily, but most studies administered spirulina for 3 months to observe an effect. The collective evidence suggests that spirulina supplements may help improve risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases, thus, preventing its development. However, due to the heterogeneity of the results, more randomized clinical trials are needed to draw robust conclusions about spirulina's therapeutic potential in ameliorating risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases and fully elucidate the mechanisms by which it exerts its effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The production of alkaliphilic microalgae can contribute to address the challenging cost of using pure carbon dioxide in large reactors. At high pH values, carbon dioxide is rapidly scavenged and the supply rates of dissolved inorganic carbon from the atmosphere to alkaline media are high. The present study aimed to identify microalgal strains that can cope with high alkalinity and aeration rates. Eight strains were studied and the microalgae Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus almeriensis and Nannochloropsis gaditana were the only ones that were able to grow under these conditions. Their biomass productivities using laboratory‐scale bubble columns with no pH control and high aeration flow were 0.20 ± 0.03, 0.24 ± 0.03 and 0.08 ± 0.01 g·L−1·day−1, respectively. The production of the two former was scaled up to pilot‐scale bubble columns. Overall, the amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide that was transformed into biomass was in the range of 10%–30%, depending on the strain used and the photobioreactor setup. The biomass was rich in proteins and β‐carotene, both valuable products, highlighting the potential production of food ingredients while capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to study whether feeding Spirulina platensis has beneficial effect on enhancing the fatty acid profile and storage stability of the loin muscle of pigs. A total of 24 male finishing pigs (Large White Yorkshire X Desi) were housed individually and distributed randomly into four equal groups with six animals in each group. Four isonitrogenous experimental diets (T1 to T4) were formulated by including dry Spirulina platensis at 0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 %, respectively and fed during finishing phase (50 to 75 kg) live weight. Dietary treatments had no significant (P>0.05) effect on the total lipid and total cholesterol content of the loin muscle of pigs. The level of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) was higher (P<0.05) in Spirulina supplemented groups (T2, T3, and T4) compared to T1 leading to a higher (P<0.05) ratio of PUFA to saturated fatty acid (SFA) with increasing levels of Spirulina platensis inclusion in the diet. Whereas, the sum of SFA and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) was significantly (P<0.05) decreased in Spirulina supplemented groups compared to T1. The Ratio of n-6 to n-3 of muscle was decreased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing level of Spirulina and the values were 21.5, 20.2, 20.1, and 19.8 in T1 to T4, respectively. The other fatty acids namely gamma-linolenic acid, alpha-linolenic acid and eicosapentanoic acid were not statistically significant (P>0.05) among the treatment groups. Supplementation of Spirulina significantly (P<0.05) decreased the pH and 2-TBARS value of loin muscle during the refrigerated (4±1°C) storage at 0, 3, 6, and 9 days. Further, inclusion of Spirulina showed significant (P<0.05) improvement in the sensory attributes (flavour, tenderness, and juiciness) of the loin muscle of pigs. The results indicated that inclusion of dried Spirulina platensis powder up to 1.5 % in finishing pig diets was beneficial to achieve PUFA enriched pork and overall acceptability of the pork during refrigerated storage for a period of 9 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arthrospira is a filamentous cyanobacterium, rich in proteins and bioactive compounds, which is a dietary supplement for humans and animals. However, the contribution of this "superfood" on the life history traits of zooplankton is poorly addressed. We conducted Daphnia magna growth experiment using Arthrospira platensis comparing it with Chlamydomonas reinhardtii as quality food, to evaluate the nutritional adequacy of A. platensis for rearing daphnids. The trichomes of A. platensis was fragmented using a bead crusher for easier ingestion by the daphnids. The growth experiments revealed that A. platensis alone did not support both survival and growth of D. magna, but the daphnid survival increased after the addition of 20% C. reinhardtii. When A. platensis was supplemented with 50% and more of C. reinhardtii, however, growth was better than to those daphnids exclusively fed on C. reinhardtii. This suggests that A. platensis have some nutritional limitations essential for daphnids survival and growth instead of less digestibility or toxicity. Carbon (C) to Phosphorus (P) ratio (C:P = 46) of A. platensis was far below the threshold for daphnid growth (C:P = 116). This implies that P limitation is unlikely in A. platensis as feed for daphnids. Although the lack of some essential biochemicals such as sterols and polyunsaturated fatty acids may be a more plausible explanation, a small addition of A. platensis to standard microalgal foods would result in better growth of zooplankton, including D. magna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antimicrobial, UV photoprotective and antioxidant capabilities of Spirulina spp. methanolic extracts were determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas chromatographymass spectrometry (GC-MS). Notable compounds were reported to be 5 fatty acid methyl esters, 4-methoxyallocinnamic acid, 2-ethylhexyl esters and bumetrizole. Moreover, these metabolites contained functionalities including hydroxyl, alkyl and carbonyl, as supported by the FTIR result. After 24 h, there was no zone of inhibition in the antibacterial activity as measured by the agar well diffusion method at doses of 30, 50 and 70 g/mL. The ABTS radical scavenging assay revealed that the methanolic Spirulina spp. exhibited an inhibitory concentration of 1,047.91 g/mL for antioxidant activity and SPF values of 0.40, 0.23 and 0.93 were calculated using Mansur's equation for concentrations of 30, 50 and 70 g/mL, respectively. The results of the study showed the potential of cyanobacterial extracts as a bioactive ingredient in cosmetic product development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In aquaculture studies, Spirulina can be used to replace fish meal in aquafeed to lower the cost of producing fish feed while adding therapeutic and health benefits. Proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, pigments, and fatty acids from Spirulina could enhance the cellular and humoral immunities of a variety of fish species. This review focuses on the functions of various Spirulina components that play a role in haematopoiesis, haemato-biochemical variables, pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine production, stress prevention, disease resistance, and immune responses in a variety of finfish species. Herein, we also presented the overlooked areas on the functionality of Spirulina on the immune response pathway and connected the missing link with the help of a better knowledge of the mammalian system, albeit these must be proved experimentally. This review will inspire the scientific community to investigate the biological role of Spirulina in fish, which is critical to the commercial viability of Spirulina as fish feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litopenaeus vannamei, a highly adaptable shrimp species known for its growth, thrives in environmental conditions with proper water quality. However, salinity stress poses a significant challenge, compromising shrimp survival and growth. To optimize shrimp feed, the inclusion of alginate and Spirulina sp. offers benefits such as enhanced growth and resistance to environmental stress. This research aims to assess the impact of adding Spirulina sp., alginate, and their combination on the survival rate, resistance to the salinity shock test, and growth of L. vannamei. In this study, a completely randomized design (CRD) method with nine different feed doses was used. The treatments included control, supplementation of Alg 1 (alginate 1 g/kg feed), Alg 3 (alginate 3 g/kg feed), Alg 5 (alginate 5 g/kg feed), Sp 3 (spirulina 3 mg/kg feed), Sp 6 (spirulina 6 mg/kg feed), Sp 9 (spirulina 9 mg/kg feed), AS 1+1 (alginate 1 g/kg feed + spirulina 1 mg/kg feed), AS 2+3 (alginate 2 g/kg feed + spirulina 3 mg/kg feed), and AS 3+5 (alginate 3 g/kg feed + spirulina 5 mg/kg feed). The supplementation of feed was given during the fourteen-day rearing period. The results of the study show that the supplementation of Sp 9 (spirulina 9 mg/kg feed) led to a significant growth (α = 0.05). All treatments supplemented with alginate and/or Spirulina sp. water extract had a significant effect (α = 0.05) on the resistance to the salinity shock test. The different treatments in L. vannamei feed supplementation significantly influenced (α = 0.05) shrimp survival. Polysaccharides and antioxidant properties in alginate and Spirulina sp. have an important role in increasing the growth and resistance to salinity shock of L. vannamei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the whole world is facing hunger due to the increase in the global population and the rising level of food consumption. Unfortunately, the impact of environmental, climate, and political issues on agriculture has resulted in limited global food resources. Thus, it is important to develop new food sources that are environmentally friendly and not subject to climate or space limitations. Microalgae represent a potential source of nutrients and bioactive components for a wide range of high-value products. Advances in cultivation and genetic engineering techniques provide prospective approaches to widen their application for food. However, there are currently problems in the microalgae food industry in terms of assessing nutritional value, selecting processes for microalgae culture, obtaining suitable commercial strains of microalgae, etc. Additionally, the limitations of real data of market opportunities for microalgae make it difficult to assess their actual potential and to develop a better industrial chain. This review addresses the current status of the microalgae food industry, the process of commercializing microalgae food and breeding methods. Current research progress in addressing the limitations of microalgae industrialization and future prospects for developing microalgae food products are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing rate of the antimicrobial resistance phenomenon, natural products gain our attention as potential drug candidates. Apart from being used as nutraceuticals and for biotechnological purposes, microalgae and phytoplankton have well-recognized antimicrobial compounds and proved anti-infectious potential. In this review, we comprehensively outline the antimicrobial activity of one genus of cyanobacteria (Arthrospira, formerly Spirulina) and of eukaryotic microalgae (Dunaliella). Both, especially Arthrospira, are mostly used as nutraceuticals and as a source of antioxidants for health supplements, cancer therapy and cosmetics. Their diverse bioactive compounds provide other bioactivities and potential for various medical applications. Their antibacterial and antifungal activity vary in a broad range and are strain specific. There are strains of Arthrospira platensis with very potent activity and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) as low as 2–15 µg/mL against bacterial fish pathogens including Bacillus and Vibrio spp. Arthrospira sp. has demonstrated an inhibition zone (IZ) of 50 mm against Staphylococcus aureus. Remarkable is the substantial amount of in vivo studies of Arthrospira showing it to be very promising for preventing vibriosis in shrimp and Helicobacter pylori infection and for wound healing. The innovative laser irradiation of the chlorophyll it releases can cause photodynamic destruction of bacteria. Dunaliella salina has exhibited MIC values lower than 300 µg/mL and an IZ value of 25.4 mm on different bacteria, while Dunaliella tertiolecta has demonstrated MIC values of 25 and 50 μg/mL against some Staphylococcus spp. These values fulfill the criteria for significant antimicrobial activity and sometimes are comparable or exceed the activity of the control antibiotics. The bioactive compounds which are responsible for that action are fatty acids including PUFAs, polysaccharides, glycosides, peptides, neophytadiene, etc. Cyanobacteria, such as Arthrospira, also particularly have antimicrobial flavonoids, terpenes, alkaloids, saponins, quinones and some unique-to-them compounds, such as phycobiliproteins, polyhydroxybutyrate, the peptide microcystin, etc. These metabolites can be optimized by using stress factors in a two-step process of fermentation in closed photobioreactors (PBRs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lack of broad‐spectrum tumor antigens, limited immunogenicity of antigens, and immunosuppressive microenvironment in tumors have impeded the development of cancer vaccines. To address this issue, a vaccine platform is developed based on Spirulina skeleton fibers loaded with gold (Au) nanoparticles (Au@E‐SP). Upon subcutaneous administration, Au@E‐SP self‐aggregates in situ and forms a 3D vaccine scaffold owing to its elongated and helical architecture. Through the aggregation of Au@E‐SP, Au nanoparticles are concentrated, which significantly enhances the local photothermal effect and releases more tumor‐associated antigens. In addition, the retained E‐SP serves as a natural immune adjuvant that sustainably reverses the immunosuppressive microenvironment in vivo. Combining these advantages, the vaccines induce a potent anti‐tumor immune response, effectively inhibiting tumor recurrence and metastasis. This strategy utilizes microalgae as a self‐adjuvant vaccine, providing a promising avenue for further research in tumor immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This investigation assessed the effects of high dietary inclusion of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) on broiler chicken growth performance, meat quality and nutritional attributes. For this, 120 male broiler chicks were housed in 40 battery brooders (three birds per brooder). Initially, for 14 days, a standard corn and soybean meal diet was administered. Subsequently, from days 14 to 35, chicks were assigned to one of the four dietary treatments (n = 10 per treatment): (1) control diet (CTR); (2) diet with 15% Spirulina (SP); (3) diet with 15% extruded Spirulina (SPE); and (4) diet with 15% Spirulina plus a super-dosing enzymes supplement (0.20% pancreatin extract and 0.01% lysozyme) (SPM). Results: Throughout the experimental period, both SP and SPM diets resulted in decreased final body weight and body weight gain compared to control (p < 0.001), with the SPE diet showing comparable results to CTR. The SPE diet prompted an increase in average daily feed intake (p = 0.026). However, all microalga treatments increased the feed conversion ratio compared to CTR. Dietary inclusion of Spirulina notably increased intestinal content viscosity (p < 0.010), which was mitigated by the SPM diet. Spirulina supplementation led to lower pH levels in breast meat 24 h post-mortem and heightened the b* colour value in both breast and thigh meats (p < 0.010). Furthermore, Spirulina contributed to an increased accumulation of total carotenoids, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and saturated fatty acids (SFA), while diminishing n-6 PUFA, thus altering the n-6/n-3 and PUFA/SFA ratios favourably (p < 0.001). However, it also reduced zinc concentration in breast meat (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The findings indicate that high Spirulina levels in broiler diets impair growth due to increased intestinal viscosity, and that extrusion pre-treatment mitigates this effect. Despite reducing digesta viscosity, a super-dosing enzyme mix did not improve growth. Data also indicates that Spirulina enriches meat with antioxidants and n-3 PUFA but reduces α-tocopherol and increases saturated fats. Reduced zinc content in meat suggests the need for Spirulina biofortification to maintain its nutritional value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Natural antioxidants are crucial for preserving and enhancing the health, survival, reproduction, and reproductive function of poultry. Phycocyanin (PC) is a natural blue food colorant with various health benefits. The aim of this study was to extract Arthrospira platensis phycocyanin (ApPC) from A. platensis using simple and economical methods and investigate the impact of phytocyanin supplementation on the performance and fatty and amino acid profiles of broiler chicks. Materials and Methods: PC was extracted from A. platensis by freezing and thawing, and optimization conditions such as pH and temperature were applied during storage periods. A total of 270 1-week-old Ross breed broiler chicks were randomly assigned to the following three treatment groups: basal diet supplemented with 0 mg of PC/kg diet (control), basal diet supplemented with 1 g PC/kg diet (T1), and basal diet supplemented with 2 g PC/kg (T2). In a completely randomized design, three cage replicates (30 birds each) were assigned to each of the three groups. The dietary effects of ApPC on growth performance (body weight gain [BWG], body weight [BW], feed intake, feed conversion ratio, serum constituents, and antioxidant indices) in broiler chickens, free amino acids, and fatty acids in muscles were evaluated. Results: Total BWG and BW increased without a significant effect on the total feed consumption. Serum levels of total proteins and albumin increased with increasing ApPC supplementation. In addition, globulin levels significantly increased. There was a significant decrease in serum total cholesterol levels among the treatments. The activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and total antioxidant capacity) is significantly increased. In contrast, an increase in ApPC caused a significant decrease in malondialdehyde. The content and quantity of fatty acids and amino acids in the meat of broiler chicks supplemented with PC varies. Conclusion: The addition of PC to broiler chicken diets enhances antioxidant activities, BW, BWG, and meets quality requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arthrospira/Limnospira is a popular botanical dietary supplement throughout the world and has been consumed as a food product for hundreds of years. Ongoing efforts from our research group are focused on evaluating the utility of a Limnospira-derived oral supplement (Immulina) in promoting resilience against influenza viral infection. Like other botanical extracts, Immulina is inherently a complex matrix with variation in the levels of its chemical constituents. Therefore, to ensure therapeutic consistency for future scientific research and clinical studies, we are developing standardization technology using a bioassay and chemical markers. Braun-type lipoproteins, a class of macromolecules that activate the Toll-like receptor (TLR)2/TLR1 signaling pathway, have been identified as a major active component within Immulina. Based on the mechanism of action of the Braun-type lipoproteins, an in vitro bioassay was established using the HEK-Blue hTLR2/TLR1 cell line to quantitate the immune-enhancing potency of Immulina. The objective of the current research was to validate that bioassay for Immulina activity quantification using the U.S. FDA guidance document for botanical drug development and U.S. Pharmacopeia recommendations. System suitability, reference standards and defining potency units were established. Validation of performance parameters included precision, specificity, accuracy, linearity, and range. Validating this bioassay for Immulina activity provides a tool for ensuring product consistency and quantifying the potency of this botanical for use in future research as well as material in the consumer market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirulina supplementation has been reported to increase hemoglobin concentration as well as a variety of cardiorespiratory and lactate-based performance parameters during maximal and submaximal states of exercise. This study investigates the efficacy of supplementing a 6 g/day dosage of spirulina for 14-days in recreationally active individuals, analyzing cardiorespiratory parameters during maximal and submaximal cycling as well as the potential mechanistic role of hemoglobin augmentation. 17 recreationally active individuals (Male = 14, Female = 3, Age 23 ± 5 years, V̇O2max 43.3 ± 8.6 ml/min·kg) ingested 6 g/day of spirulina or placebo for 14-days in a double-blinded randomized crossover study, with a 14-day washout period between trials. Participants completed a 20-min submaximal cycle at 40% maximal power output (WRmax), followed by a V̇O2max test. Hemoglobin (g/L), WRmax (watts), time to fatigue (seconds), heart rate (bpm), oxygen uptake (ml/min·kg), RER and blood lactate response (mmol/L) were measured and compared between conditions. Cardiorespiratory variables were recorded at 5-min intervals and lactate was measured at 10-min intervals during the submaximal exercise. There was a significant 3.4% increase in hemoglobin concentration after spirulina supplementation in comparison to placebo (150.4 ± 9.5 g/L Vs 145.6 ± 9.4 g/L, p = 0.047). No significant differences existed between either condition in both testing protocols for V̇O2max, WRmax, time to fatigue, heart rate, oxygen uptake, RER and blood lactate response (p > 0.05). 14-days of spirulina supplementation significantly improved hemoglobin concentration but did not lead to any considerable ergogenic improvements during maximal or submaximal exercise at a 6 g/day dosage in recreationally active individuals whilst cycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated suitable culture conditions for the production of the blue pigment phycocyanin (PC) from the unique filamentous cyanobacteria Pseudanabaena sp. ABRG5-3 and Limnothrix sp. SK1-2-1. White, green, or red LED irradiation at 30 μmol photons/m2/s was effective for phycocyanin production when compared with Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) sp. NIES-39, which is generally grown under high light irradiation. To investigate the safety of the cyanobacteria, ABRG5-3 cells were subjected to Ames (reverse mutation) tests and single oral-dose rat studies, which revealed non-mutagenic and non-toxic properties. When three purified phycocyanins (abPC, skPC, and spPC) were subjected to agarose gel electrophoresis, they showed different mobility, indicating that each phycocyanin has unique properties. abPC exhibited strong antiglycation activities as novel function. • We assessed cultivation conditions and phycocyanin production of 3 cyanobacteria. • We tested various light irradiation conditions in terms of quality and intensity. • We found that ABRG5-3 cells are non-mutagenetic and non-toxic. • Each phycocyanin has unique properties depending on bacterial species. • The phycocyanins showed strong antiglycation activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, marine natural products have become one of the most important resources of novel lead compounds for critical diseases associated with age. Spirulina, a dietary supplement made from blue-green algae (cyanobacteria: scientific name Arthrospira platensis), is particularly rich in phycocyanin, a phycobiliprotein, which accounts for up to 20% of this cyanobacterium's dry weight and is considered responsible for its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Although the anti-aging activity of phycocyanin has been investigated, how exactly this compound works against aging remains elusive. The aim of our research is to use the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism to investigate the anti-aging properties of phycocyanin from A. platensis. Our results show that phycocyanin has a powerful anti-aging effect, greatly extending the chronological life span of yeast cells in a dose-dependent way, as the effect was also pronounced when cells were grown in SD medium under calorie restriction conditions (0.2% glucose). Both ROS and accumulation of dead cells were followed by staining chronologically aged cells with dihydrorhodamine 123 (DHR123) and propidium iodide (PI). Interestingly, we found that most of the aged phycocyanin-treated cells, which were unable to form colonies, were actually ROS+/PI–. Finally, we show that the moment in which phycocyanin is added to the culture does not substantially influence its effectiveness in counteracting chronological aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study focuses on the global challenge of drought stress, which significantly impedes wheat production, a cornerstone of global food security. Drought stress disrupts cellular and physiological processes in wheat, leading to substantial yield losses, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. The research investigates the use of Spirulina platensis aqueous extract (SPAE) as a biostimulant to enhance the drought resistance of two Egyptian wheat cultivars, Sakha 95 (drought-tolerant) and Shandawel 1 (drought-sensitive). Each cultivar's grains were divided into four treatments: Cont, DS, SPAE-Cont, and SPAE + DS. Cont and DS grains were presoaked in distilled water for 18 h while SPAE-Cont and SPAE + DS were presoaked in 10% SPAE, and then all treatments were cultivated for 96 days in a semi-field experiment. During the heading stage (45 days: 66 days), two drought treatments, DS and SPAE + DS, were not irrigated. In contrast, the Cont and SPAE-Cont treatments were irrigated during the entire experiment period. At the end of the heading stage, agronomy, pigment fractions, gas exchange, and carbohydrate content parameters of the flag leaf were assessed. Also, at the harvest stage, yield attributes and biochemical aspects of yielded grains (total carbohydrates and proteins) were evaluated. Results: The study demonstrated that SPAE treatments significantly enhanced the growth vigor, photosynthetic rate, and yield components of both wheat cultivars under standard and drought conditions. Specifically, SPAE treatments increased photosynthetic rate by up to 53.4%, number of spikes by 76.5%, and economic yield by 190% for the control and 153% for the drought-stressed cultivars pre-soaked in SPAE. Leaf agronomy, pigment fractions, gas exchange parameters, and carbohydrate content were positively influenced by SPAE treatments, suggesting their effectiveness in mitigating drought adverse effects, and improving wheat crop performance. Conclusion: The application of S. platensis aqueous extract appears to ameliorate the adverse effects of drought stress on wheat, enhancing the growth vigor, metabolism, and productivity of the cultivars studied. This indicates the potential of SPAE as an eco-friendly biostimulant for improving crop resilience, nutrition, and yield under various environmental challenges, thus contributing to global food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study focuses on the global challenge of drought stress, which significantly impedes wheat production, a cornerstone of global food security. Drought stress disrupts cellular and physiological processes in wheat, leading to substantial yield losses, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. The research investigates the use of Spirulina platensis aqueous extract (SPAE) as a biostimulant to enhance the drought resistance of two Egyptian wheat cultivars, Sakha 95 (drought-tolerant) and Shandawel 1 (drought-sensitive). Each cultivar's grains were divided into four treatments: Cont, DS, SPAE-Cont, and SPAE + DS. Cont and DS grains were presoaked in distilled water for 18 h while SPAE-Cont and SPAE + DS were presoaked in 10% SPAE, and then all treatments were cultivated for 96 days in a semi-field experiment. During the heading stage (45 days: 66 days), two drought treatments, DS and SPAE + DS, were not irrigated. In contrast, the Cont and SPAE-Cont treatments were irrigated during the entire experiment period. At the end of the heading stage, agronomy, pigment fractions, gas exchange, and carbohydrate content parameters of the flag leaf were assessed. Also, at the harvest stage, yield attributes and biochemical aspects of yielded grains (total carbohydrates and proteins) were evaluated. Results: The study demonstrated that SPAE treatments significantly enhanced the growth vigor, photosynthetic rate, and yield components of both wheat cultivars under standard and drought conditions. Specifically, SPAE treatments increased photosynthetic rate by up to 53.4%, number of spikes by 76.5%, and economic yield by 190% for the control and 153% for the drought-stressed cultivars pre-soaked in SPAE. Leaf agronomy, pigment fractions, gas exchange parameters, and carbohydrate content were positively influenced by SPAE treatments, suggesting their effectiveness in mitigating drought adverse effects, and improving wheat crop performance. Conclusion: The application of S. platensis aqueous extract appears to ameliorate the adverse effects of drought stress on wheat, enhancing the growth vigor, metabolism, and productivity of the cultivars studied. This indicates the potential of SPAE as an eco-friendly biostimulant for improving crop resilience, nutrition, and yield under various environmental challenges, thus contributing to global food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different methods were used to extract C-phycocyanin from Arthrospira platensis, alone or in synergy (freezing, incubation, ultrasounds, deep eutectic solvents). Freezing or Freeze-drying spirulina allows a highly facilitated rupture of the cell membranes. Incubation in water allows then a quick release of C-PC and other phycobiliproteins at 45 °C (2 h) while it takes less than 8 h at 35 °C and 25–30 h at ambient temperature. In addition to microscopic observation, the evolution of solutes concentration with incubation time confirms that hydrosoluble pigments are first preferentially released relatively to chlorophyll which requires deeper collapse of the spirulina cells. Use of ultrasounds allows an extraction of the spirulina content in 15 min of treatment with a high C-PC extraction yield (> 200 mg/g) and good protein purity (around 0.7). Ethyl acetate, ethanol and a mixture of these solvents give good extraction yields of chlorophyll (around 21 mg/g). C-PC extraction yield is yet then decreased due to a denaturation of the hydrated pigment. Fructose can be used to prevent denaturation by both organic solvent and freezing/freeze-drying. The use of deep-eutectic solvents is not recommended here as no better yield or selectivity are achieved compared to extraction in buffered water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of ultrasound intensity and saline solution concentration (NH 4 Cl and CaCl 2) on phycocyanin extraction from Arthrospira platensis was evaluated. The intensity had a significant effect on phycocyanin content and purity, while the saline solution concentration only had an effect on purity. The optimum extraction condition was obtained at 41% of intensity and 8.5 g.L−1 of CaCl 2 solution. In this condition, ultrasound promoted cell disruption efficiently, increasing the extraction yield. The combination of ultrasound with CaCl 2 solution reduced the co-extraction of chlorophylls and other proteins, providing more purified extracts. The freezing and thawing method was compared to the best condition obtained, and it showed no significant difference for phycocyanin content but better results for purity. Overall, ultrasound treatment may be considered a promising technology to obtain phycocyanin by the food industry without additional purification techniques due to the reduced extraction time, less use of energy, and easy scale-up. • Ultrasound and saline solutions were evaluated for phycocyanin extraction. • The optimum condition was 41% of ultrasound intensity and 8.5 g L−1 of CaCl 2 solution. • The optimum condition reduced the co-extraction of chlorophylls and other proteins. • Ultrasound combined with CaCl 2 solution provided food grade phycocyanin extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment aimed at the nutritional value of spirulina powder and its effects on growth performance, apparent metabolic rate and meat quality of broilers. A total of 960 healthy 1-day-old AA broilers (40 g) were selected and randomly divided into 4 treatments by using a single-factor experiment design (control group, test group Ⅰ, test group Ⅱ and test group Ⅲ), with 6 repetitions for each treatment and 40 broilers for each repetition (half male and half female). The 4 treatments were fed with 0, 5, 10, 15 kg/t spirulina powder in the basal diet respectively, and the metabolizable energy and crude protein levels of each treatment group were same. The test period is 42 days, of which the pre-feeding test period is 1-14 days, and the formal test period is 15-42 days. The test results showed that the average daily gain and average daily feed intake of each test group were significantly higher than those of the control group (P<0.05), and there was no significant difference in the feed-to-meat ratio (P>0.05). The apparent metabolic rate of protein in each test group was higher than that in the control group (P<0.05), the apparent metabolic rate of crude fat in the test group Ⅱ and the test group Ⅲ was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). The apparent metabolic rate of calcium in the test group Ⅰ and Ⅱ was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the test group showed improvements in slaughter performance and meat quality of broilers. Adding spirulina powder to the diet can significantly increase the growth performance and slaughter performance of broilers, and the optimum adding ratio is 15 kg/t. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the combined effects of 12 weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and spirulina supplementation on adipokine levels, insulin resistance, anthropometric indices, and cardiorespiratory fitness in 44 obese males (aged 25–40 years). The participants were randomly assigned to one of four groups: control (CG), supplement (SG), training (TG), or training plus supplement (TSG). The intervention involved daily administration of either spirulina or a placebo and HIIT three times a week for the training groups. Anthropometric indices, HOMA-IR, VO2peak, and circulating adipokines (asprosin and lipocalin2, omentin-1, irisin, and spexin) were measured before and after the 12-week intervention. Post-intervention analysis indicated differences between the CG and the three interventional groups for body weight, fat-free mass (FFM), percent body fat (%BF), HOMA-IR, and adipokine levels (p < 0.05). TG and SG participants had increased VO2peak (p < 0.05). Spirulina supplementation with HIIT increased VO2peak, omentin-1, irisin, and spexin, while causing decreases in lipocalin-2 and asprosin levels and improvements in body composition (weight, %fat), BMI, and HOMA-IR. Notably, the combination of spirulina and HIIT produced more significant changes in circulating adipokines and cardiometabolic health in obese males compared to either supplementation or HIIT alone (p < 0.05). These findings highlight the synergistic benefits of combining spirulina supplementation with HIIT, showcasing their potential in improving various health parameters and addressing obesity-related concerns in a comprehensive manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic exposure to potentially toxic elements (PTEs) such as cadmium (Cd) leads to male reproductive toxicity through the generation of oxidative stress. Spirulina Arthrospira maxima (AM) is a cyanobacterium that has been consumed since ancient times for its high nutritional value, and in recent years for its antiviral, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, anticancer, and antioxidant effects, among others. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of AM against the damage to reproductive health induced by Cd. A total of 48 10-week-old sexually experienced male Wistar rats were distributed in five groups (n = 8): control; vehicle (tween-water); cadmium chloride (CdCl2) 5 mg/kg; and three doses of AM (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) + CdCl2 5 mg/kg. All treatments were orally administered once a day for 36 consecutive days. At the end, sexual behavior was evaluated, and semen, testicle, and blood samples were obtained to analyze sperm quality, enzymatic activity, and testosterone levels, respectively. Rats exposed to Cd showed a decrease in sexual behavior, as well as in the quality of reproductive health, and an increase in oxidative stress; while rats exposed simultaneously to AM + Cd showed an improvement in all this parameters. Based on our results, we believe that the mechanism by which AM exerts its effect could be attributed to the presence of phycobiliproteins. These compounds are responsible for exerting an antioxidant effect and chelating effect on elements such as Cd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The velocity of the gliding movement of filamentous cyanobacteria on a solid surface usually has a strong temperature dependency, and the higher the temperature, the faster the speed. Former studies on this phenomenon were conducted using filamentous cyanobacteria with straight morphology. We examined the velocity of the gliding movement of Arthrospira platensis NIES-39 along its longitudinal axis to see if the same was true for this cyanobacterium with helicoid trichomes. Experimental results showed little temperature dependency in the velocity in a wide temperature range in this cyanobacterium. However, when we examined the velocity using mutants with straight trichomes, their velocity was strongly affected by temperature, like other formerly analyzed filamentous cyanobacteria. This result indicates that the helicoid morphology of A. platensis trichomes confers temperature compensation to their migration velocity, enabling them to keep a relatively constant velocity under various temperatures. Migration of wild-type trichomes is considerably suppressed compared to the straight-trichome mutants on solid media. The temperature compensation in the locomotion of this organism appears to be established as part of such a suppression. It was also found that the velocity of this cyanobacterium depended on the trichome length when they were atypically short (<250 µm); the shorter the trichomes, the slower the gliding movement tended to be. This result indicates that the coordinated action of a high number of cells constituting the trichome is required for efficient gliding movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirulina species are photosynthetic and filamentous bacteria, commonly called 'blue-green microalgae'. Spirulina has a high nutrient content. It contains 60–70% protein with all essential amino acids present, and is rich in several vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. Spirulina is also rich in essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. This rich nutritional content provides to Spirulina several health benefits including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulation, and insulin-sensitizing properties as well as positive effects in various diseases which could be also interesting for athletes. This paper mainly aims to review the interest and effects of Spirulina supplementation in athletes at rest, and in relation to exercise/training. Spirulina's biochemical composition, health properties/effects in humans, and effects in athletes including nutritional status, body composition, physical performance and intense exercise-related disorders were discussed in this review. Literature data showed that Spirulina seems to have positive effects on body composition especially in overweight and obese subjects which could not be the case in other pathologies and athletes. Spirulina appears to be also effective in improving aerobic fitness especially in untrained and moderately trained subjects. Results reported in the literature suggest that Spirulina may improve strength and power performance despite the minor or no significant effects in highly trained subjects. Most studies have shown that Spirulina improves antioxidant status, prevents and accelerates the recovery of exercise-induced lipid peroxidation, muscle damage and inflammation in trained and untrained subjects. Taken together, the results from these studies are encouraging and may demonstrate the potential benefits of Spirulina supplementation in athletes despite methodological differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the effects of supplementing the diets of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) with Spirulina sp. and citric acid (CA) on growth performance and immune parameters. Various experimental diets were formulated, including a control group, diets with 20g/kg Spirulina, 30g/kg Spirulina, 0.5g/kg citric acid, 1.0g/kg citric acid, and four mixed combinations of Spirulina and citric acid. Initially, common carp weighing 15.3 ± 1.9g were fed these diets for eight weeks in 40-L aquaria with three replicates. Growth performance and immune indices, specifically lysozyme, IgM, and immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels were assessed. The results demonstrated that the Spirulina/citric acid mixture significantly improved growth performance and immune indices compared to individual Spirulina and citric acid treatments and the control group (P< 0.05). The growth indices indicated increased dietary efficiency with the higher inclusion of the mixture, with the 30g Spirulina sp. + 1.0g citric acid and 30g Spirulina sp. + 0.5g citric acid treatments exhibiting the highest growth performance and the lowest feed conversion ratio (FCR). In conclusion, dietary supplementation of 30g/kg Spirulina combined with 0.5g/kg citric acid was found to promote growth and positively influence the immune parameters in common carp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐2019) pandemic and other factors have significantly increased the number of people suffering from food shortages worldwide in 2020. As many as 720–811 million people, which is nearly 10% of the global population, are facing hunger. Thus, the need for substances that fulfil human nutritional requirements is growing to address this issue. Arthrospira platensis (A. platensis), commonly or commercially called spirulina, is an ideal product that contains various functional ingredients. Given them, various health benefits of A. platensis are proven gradually, including anti‐oxidant, immune regulation, anti‐inflammation, hypoglycaemia, anti‐bacterial and anti‐radiation properties. In recent years, functional ingredients of A. platensis are showing the potential to be functional foods. This paper gives an overview on the functional ingredients and the resulting health benefits of A. platensis summarises the research progress of A. platensis as functional foods in recent years and looks forward to its application development prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Streptomycin and kanamycin are aminoglycosides that are toxic to the cochlea vestibular system, can causing hearing loss. This antibiotic is used for the treatment of tuberculosis and its ototoxicity occurs in 20% of tuberculosis patients. Spirulina is a cyanobacterial species that is used as a dietary supplement and contains phycocyanin compounds that function as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of spirulina on histopathological changes in the cochlea in Wistar rats after kanamycin induction. Methods: this study is a form of posttest-only controlled group design research with a sample of 24 wistar rats divided into 4 groups, namely negative control group, positive control group, treatment group 1 and treatment group 2. Observations of the study took place in November-December 2021. Histopathological measurements in hair cells, macrophages and cochlear vasculature. The analysis used non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis and post-hoc Mann-Whitney tests. Results: There were more hair cell damage, macrophage cell count, and significant vascular dilatation in the kanamycin group than in the without kanamycin group with the value p=0.001. There was significantly less number of hair cell damage in the kanamycin group with spirulina at a dose of 1000 mg than in the kanamycin group with spirulina at a dose of 400 mg p=0.045. Conclusion: There was a significant effect on the administration of spirulina on histopathological changes in the cochlea of rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of partially replacing soybean meal (SBM) with algal sources on in vitro ruminal fermentation. Using 6 fermenters in a 3 × 3 replicated Latin square with 3 periods of 10 d each, we tested 3 treatments: a control diet (CRT) with SBM at 17.8% of the diet dry matter (DM); and 50% SBM biomass replacement with either Chlorella pyrenoidosa (CHL); or Spirulina platensis (SPI). The basal diet was formulated to meet the requirements of a 680-kg Holstein dairy cow producing 45 kg/d of milk with 3.5% fat and 3% protein. All diets had a similar nutritional composition (16.0% CP; 34.9% NDF; 31.0% starch, DM basis) and fermenters were provided with 106 g DM/d split into 2 portions. After 7 d of adaptation, samples were collected for 3 d of each period for analyses of ruminal fermentation at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h after morning feeding for evaluation of the ruminal fermentation kinetics. For the evaluation of the daily production of total metabolites and for the evaluation of nutrient degradability, samples from the effluent containers were collected daily. Statistical analysis was performed with the MIXED procedure of SAS with treatment, time, and their interactions considered as fixed effects; day, square, and fermenter were considered as random effects. Orthogonal contrasts (CRT vs. algae; and CHL vs. SPI) were used to depict the treatment effect, and significance was declared when P ≤ 0.05. Fermenters that received algae-based diets had a greater propionate molar concentration and molar proportion when compared with the fermenters fed CRT diets. In addition, those algae-fed fermenters had lower branched short-chain fatty acids (BSCFA) and isoacids (IA), which are biomarkers of ruminal protein degradation, along with lower ammonia (NH 3 -N) concentration and greater nonammonia nitrogen (NAN). When contrasting with fermenters fed SPI-diets, fermenters fed based CHL-diets had a lower molar concentration of BSCFA and IA, along with lower NH 3 -N concentration and flow, and greater NAN, bacterial nitrogen flow, and efficiency of nitrogen utilization. Those results indicate that CHL protein may be more resistant to ruminal degradation, which would increase efficiency of nitrogen utilization. In summary, partially replacing SBM with algae biomass, especially with CHL, is a promising strategy to improve the efficiency of nitrogen utilization, due to the fact that fermenters fed CHL-based diets resulted in a reduction in BSCFA and IA, which are markers of protein degradation, and it would improve the efficiency of nitrogen utilization. However, further validation using in vivo models are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phycocyanin is a pigment–protein complex from the group of phycobiliproteins obtained from Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis), with possibilities for various applications in food and pharmaceutical technologies. It is a natural colorant for food and cosmetic products. This study aimed to investigate the effect of ultrasonic and microwave extraction conditions on antioxidant activity (AOA), chlorophyll content, and the content and purity index of phycocyanin in aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis). For this purpose, ultrasonic extraction with water or ethanol was performed at 20 °C, 30 °C, and 40 °C for 1, 2, and 3 h at an ultrasonic frequency of 36 kHz, 40 kHz, and 45 kHz. Microwave water extraction was performed for 60 s, 120 s, and 180 s. For each of the obtained samples, three parallel measurements of antioxidant activity were made by DPPH and FRAP methods, and chlorophyll content and phycocyanin yield and purity index were determined spectrophotometrically. Ultrasonic extraction resulted in a higher yield and purity index of phycocyanin compared to microwave extraction. The highest yield of 14.88 mg g−1 with a purity index of 1.60 was achieved at a temperature of 40 °C for one hour and an ultrasonic wave frequency of 40 kHz. A relatively low yield of 4.21 mg g−1, but with a purity index of 2.67, was obtained at a temperature of 30 °C, a time of two hours, and an ultrasonic frequency of 40 kHz. Chlorophyll b content at 20 °C, for two hours and ultrasonic frequency 40 kHz was 1.400 mg g−1. The study proposes ultrasonic extraction as a green method to obtain phycocyanin of varying purity index that may be used for food, cosmetic, or biomedical purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Holothuria scabra is widely used in traditional medicine or consumed as a healthy or exotic food, causing wild stocks to decrease. Therefore, aquaculture is the best solution to address this issue and support the growing market demand. However, up to now, H. scabra production is facing problems related to the nursery phase, survival rate of larvae and juveniles, production cost, and broodstock for mass production. In this study, the juveniles of H. scabra were divided into three different stocking densities and fed with 1 g of dissolved Spirulina powder once on alternate days. Their length was recorded every two weeks. After six weeks, the juveniles reared with 100 individual densities showed the highest survival rate at 80% compared to 200 and 400 stocking densities. Meanwhile, every tank showed a positive growth rate, indicating that Spirulina powder could potentially promote the growth of juvenile H. scabra. The specific growth rate for stocking density at 100, 200, and 400 were 1.2, 0.86, and 1.37%/day, respectively. In conclusion, the optimum initial stocking density is between 100 and 200 individuals for a 1-ton fibreglass tank with a 500 L water capacity. The Spirulina can be used as the main protein source as compared to other diets for juvenile H. scabra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of exogenous endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) like estrone, in the food chain through the aquatic system, disrupts steroid biosynthesis and metabolism by altering either the genomic or non-genomic pathway that eventually results in various diseases. Thus, bioremediation of these compounds is urgently required to prevent their addition and persistence in the environment. Enzymatic degradation has proven to be a knight in shining armour as it is safe and generates no toxic products. The multicopper oxidases (E.C. 1.10.3.2 benzenediol: oxygen oxidoreductase), laccase with the potential to degrade both phenolic and non-phenolic substrates has recently gained attention. In this study, the laccase was purified, characterized, and used to study estrone degradation. The culture filtrate (crude laccase) was concentrated and precipitated using cold-acetone and dialyzed against tris buffer (50 mM) giving a four-fold partially purified form, with 45.56% yield and 204.14 U/mg as specific activity and a single peak at 250–300 nm. The partially purified laccase was approximately 80 kDa as estimated by SDS-PAGE preferred ABTS as substrate. Both crude and partially purified laccase showed maximum activity at pH 3.0, 40 °C, and 4 mM ABTS. Kinetic constants (Km, Vmax) of crude and partially purified laccase were found to be 0.83 mM; 494.31 mM/min, and 0.58 mM; 480.54 mM/min respectively. Iron sulphate and sodium azide inhibited laccase maximally. Crude and partially purified laccase degradation efficiency was 87.55 and 91.35% respectively. Spirulina CPCC-695 laccase with efficient estrone degradation ability renders them promising candidates for EDCs bioremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an innovative bio‐dairy product, yoghurt was enriched with Spirulina‐encapsulated aqueous/hydroalcoholic extracts of pomegranate peel (PP). Some metabolomics, antioxidative, textural and colour properties of bio‐yoghurt samples were investigated. The samples with Spirulina (YM) and PP (YPA) had the highest lactic, citric and uric acid. The aroma profile of the samples was affected encapsulation process and storage time. The values on day 1 and day 21 were 17.84–17.04 mg/kg for acetaldehyde, 0.98–0.90 mg/kg for diacetyl and 54.42–46.65 mg/kg for acetoin. The sample with encapsulated PP aqueous extract (YEPA) had the highest TPC (2.97 mg GAE/g), and the sample with PP aqueous extract (YPA) had the highest antioxidant capacity (0.36 mg TE/g). The present study describes that bio‐yoghurt enriched with Spirulina‐encapsulated PP could be considered a good alternative for consumers demanding functional dairy products and a holistic approach to a circular bioeconomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirulina algae is an excellent candidate for catalyst preparation due to its reactive functional groups, cost-effectiveness, widespread commercial accessibility, and biodegradability. In this study, magnetized Spirulina was used for the synthesis of dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-ones (DHQZs) as catalyst. Magnetized Spirulina was produced by CoFe2O4 and sulfonation method using chlorosulfonic acid to create the catalyst [CoFe2O4-Sp-SO3H]. It was affirmed by various techniques, including Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), Vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and elemental mapping techniques. DHQZs synthesis was accomplished through a concise one-pot, three-component reaction involving a range of diverse aldehydes, isatoic anhydride, and primary aromatic amine, within an aqueous medium. The method offers several advantages, including using green conditions, the generation of several new 2-furan-quinazolinone derivatives, chromatography-free purification, short reaction times, appropriate yield of product (75–96%), and catalyst recyclability. The proposed catalyst and water as solvent demonstrated a strong synergistic effect, leading to the prosperous synthesis of various novel dihydroquinazolinones at 60 °C. These numerous benefits make our approach highly attractive for academic research and industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Nutritional and anti-nutritional factors of Spirulina, insect larvae such as Tenebrio molitor and Hermetia illucens, rapeseed meal, and grain legumes such as fava beans, peas, lupins, and chickpea are reviewed, in order to re-evaluate the use of these potential protein ingredients in pig diets. The effects on pig performance, digestion, immune system, and the physicochemical and sensorial characteristics of pork are updated. The limits of their use to be accounted for in pig diet formulation are revisited, together with the possible treatments to improve their nutritional value. The search for alternative protein sources to soybean meal (SBM) in animal feeding is a strategic objective to reduce production costs and contribute to sustainable animal production. Spirulina, due to the high protein content, has emerged as a potential cost-effective, sustainable, viable, and high-nutritional-value food resource for many animal species. Insect larvae (Tenebrio molitor and Hermetia illucens) are also considered potential alternatives to SBM, given their high edible percentage of almost 100%, as well as a protein value higher than that of vegetable proteins. Rapeseed meal and grain legumes, such as fava beans, peas, lupins, and chickpea, can also be used as locally producible protein ingredients. This study reviews the nutritional value of these potential alternatives to SBM in pig diets, and their effects on animal performance, digestion, immune system, and the physicochemical and sensorial characteristics of meat, including processed pork products. The limits on their use in pig feeding are also reviewed to indicate gaps to be filled in future research on the supplementation level of these potential alternative protein sources in pig diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Disruption of lipid droplets (LDs) is associated with many metabolic diseases. Spirulina, as a natural bioactive dietary supplement, along with exercise training, may improve lipid metabolism; however, their effects on LDs-regulated genes in visceral adipose tissue are still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of six-week Spirulina supplementation along with exercise training on LDs regulating gene expression. Materials and Methods: Fifty-six male Wistar rats were divided into six groups: saline (control), control+Spirulina (Spirulina), aerobic interval training (AIT), AIT+ Spirulina (AIT+Spirulina), resistance training and resistance+ Spirulina. The supplement groups consumed 500 mg/kg Spirulina five days per week. The training groups performed AIT (5 times per week) and resistance training (3 times per week) for 6 weeks. LDs regulating genes expression in visceral adipose tissue (Zw10, Bscl2, DFCP1, Rab18, Syntaxin 18, Acsl3, and Plin2) was analyzed by real-time PCR. Results: Spirulina and exercise training had no significant effects on the gene expression of Syntaxin18 (p=0.69) and DFCP1 (p=0. 84), ACSL3 (p=0.98), or BSCL2 (p=0.58). In addition, Spirulina was found to significantly attenuate the expression of Plin2 (p=0.01) and Rab18 (p=0.01) genes compared to the control, AIT, and resistance training groups. However, Plin2 gene expression was higher in the resistance training than the AIT. Furthermore, Spirulina decreased ZW10 (p=0.03) gene expression in visceral adipose tissue compared to the control, AIT, and resistance training groups. Unexpectedly, Spirulina supplementation decreased the expression of these genes even more when taken without exercise training Conclusion: Spirulina supplementation and exercise training have significant effects on LDs-regulated genes in visceral adipose tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to determine the effect of bioactive compounds (total phenolic, total flavonoids, and antioxidant activity) of Spirulina platensis powder and its pasta products on kidney and liver diseases in rats. Pasta preparation enriched in spirulina powder with a standard treatment formulation. Pasta was supplemented by adding Spirulina platensis powder at different levels (5, 10, 15, and 20 %). The results indicated that rats treated with spirulina had lower plasma levels of ALT, AST, ALP, Albumin, creatinine, and total bilirubin after the end of the experiments. However, liver glutathione (GSH) concentration was markedly decreased as compared to the control group. In conclusion, pasta enriched with spirulina improved liver and kidney functions and enhanced oxidative stress indices. Additional studies are necessary to test the application of Spirulina platensis in other contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aquaculture industry is constantly growing, registering a global production of almost 88 million tonnes by 2020. This industry brings environmental problems if its effluents are not properly treated. In 2020, the first technology-based company of CONICET was established in Argentine Patagonia whose purpose is the aquaculture production of the green sea urchin, Arbacia dufresnii to develop a range of nutraceutical products. Its cultivation system entails a commitment to sustainability since its creation, and yet it generates effluents with high levels of nitrates and phosphates. Objective: Given this scenario, and valuing bioremediation as a water treatment tool, the use of marine microalgae as phytoremediating agents of aquaculture effluent is proposed in this work. Methods: The microalgae Chaetoceros gracilis, Navicula sp., Tetraselmis suecica, Rhodomona salina, Nanochloropsis galvana and Cylindrotheca closterium were use; which are used as food for sea urchins larvae in the production process. An experiment was designed that compares the microalgal growth and the removal capacity of nutrients in the effluent in contrast to the artificial culture medium currently used in the production cycle. Results: It is possible to remedy the aquaculture industry's effluent by employing the selected microalgae, with a percentage of removal efficiency of 100 % of the nitrate and an average removal efficiency percentage of 50 % for all the microalgae tested. Likewise, significantly higher microalgal biomass values were obtained when the culture was carried out in the effluent the culture in the artificial environment. Conclusions: The advances in research provided in this work show that it is possible to take advantage of a discard to cultivate microalgae, even improving microalgal productivity for use as food, reducing the costs involved in the microalgal production sector by changing the use of the type of current culture medium (F/2) for that from a current discard. These advances, if scaled and validated, can improve industry sustainability standards within the framework of a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blue C-phycocyanin (C-PC), the major Spirulina protein with innumerable health-promoting benefits, is an attractive colourant and food supplement. A crucial obstacle to its more extensive use is its relatively low stability. This study aimed to screen various food-derived ligands for their ability to bind and stabilise C-PC, utilising spectroscopic techniques and molecular docking. Among twelve examined ligands, the protein fluorescence quenching revealed that only quercetin, coenzyme Q10 and resveratrol had a moderate affinity to C-PC (Ka of 2.2 to 3.7 × 105 M–1). Docking revealed these three ligands bind more strongly to the C-PC hexamer than the trimer, with the binding sites located at the interface of two (αβ)3 trimers. UV/VIS absorption spectroscopy demonstrated the changes in the C-PC absorption spectra in a complex with quercetin and resveratrol compared to the spectra of free protein and ligands. Selected ligands did not affect the secondary structure content, but they induced changes in the tertiary protein structure in the CD study. A fluorescence-based thermal stability assay demonstrated quercetin and coenzyme Q10 increased the C-PC melting point by nearly 5 °C. Our study identified food-derived ligands that interact with C-PC and improve its thermal stability, indicating their potential as stabilising agents for C-PC in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Microalgae, the photosynthetic microorganisms, open novel commercial opportunities for developing new products because of their abundance in protein, carbohydrates, pigments, vitamins and minerals. These microorganisms possess several advantages such as rapid growth, minimal land and water requirements and adaptability to various environmental conditions. As concerns arise regarding the ability of animal and plant‐based sources to meet future protein demands, researchers have turned their attention to microalgae like Spirulina and Chlorella for various applications. Microalgae typically contain around 30% protein and in case of few cyanobacteria it can reach up to 55%–60%, surpassing the protein content of conventional sources. Numerous studies have investigated the utilisation of algal biomass to enhance the protein content of a wide range of food products, including cookies, bread, yoghurt, snacks, dairy alternatives and soups. This comprehensive review aims to provide a systematic exploration of microalgae protein and its current and future utilisation in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brownies, enriched with fiber and Moringa oleifera, hydroxytyrosol (HXT), and spirulina (encapsulated and nonencapsulated), and dietary fiber using psyllium were elaborated. For that, a commercial control (CTRL) and an experimental control (CTRL) (without antioxidants) were compared. Color, nutritional composition, pH, antioxidant capacity, total phenolic compounds, as well as sensory properties were evaluated. The results showed the brownies developed with psyllium and the different extracts increased total dietary fiber compared to CTRL Commercial and CTRL, with E‐spirulina (14.93 g/100 g) and Moringa (11.91 g/100 g) being the most prominent samples. However, with regard to soluble fiber, the highest content of NE‐spirulina and the lowest content of HXT were observed. In addition, brownies enriched with extracts showed higher antioxidant capacity and higher phenolic compounds than controls, with HXT standing out at 299.25 μM Trolox/g in ABTS, 1470.08 μM Trolox/g in DPPH, and 18.15 μM Trolox/g in FRAP. However, a high level of phenolic compounds was found in E‐Spirulina (604.71 mg/L). In reference to fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) (70%) were the predominant fatty acids, followed by polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (19%) and saturated fatty acids (SFA) (10%). Glutamic acid and asparagine were the predominant amino acids. As for mineral content, N‐spirulina and E‐spirulina were the brownies with the highest iron bioaccessibility; Si, Na, B, Al, P, Fe, Zn, Bi, Ca, Cu, Mg, Mn, Rb, S, and Sr being the most abundant elements in the brownies of this study. In addition, the HXT and Moringa samples scored higher in overall acceptability compared to the controls. The findings suggest that the incorporation of psyllium, quinoa flour, and antioxidant extracts in brownies could be a viable approach to produce a healthy brownie enriched with fiber, antioxidants and, therefore, considering the nutritional, physicochemical, and organoleptic characteristics, HTX is the ideal compound to enrich bakery products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light plays an important role in the photosynthesis and metabolic process of microalgae. However, how different light conditions regulate the biomass production and protein accumulation of microalgae is mostly unknown. In this study, the influence of different light conditions, including light colors, densities, and light:dark cycles on the cell growth and biochemical composition of Spirulina platensis was symmetrically characterized. Under different colored lights, S. platensis all shows an increase trend within the increased light intensity ranges; however, each showing different optimal light intensities. At the same light intensity, different colored lights show different growth rate of S. platensis following the sequence of red>white>green>yellow>blue. The maximum growth rate and protein accumulation were determined as 21.88 and 5.10 mg/(L·d) when illuminated under red LED. The energy efficiency of different light sources was calculated and ranked as red>white>blue≈green>yellow. Transcriptomic analysis suggests that red light can promote cell growth and protein accumulation by up-regulating genes related to photosynthesis, carbon fixation, and C-N metabolism pathways. This study provides a conducive and efficient way to promote biomass production and protein accumulation of S. platensis by regulating light conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a fighting fish and ornamental fish, the growth and color brightness of Betta fish (Betta splendens) are critical to be maintained in good conditions. Spirulina Powder (SP) from a blue-green microalga Arthrospira maxima is a nutrient source that can increase the performance of the fish. The research aimed to determine the effect of A. maxima in increasing brightness and growth in Betta fish. The experiment used a completely randomized design consisting of a control and three treatment groups with the addition of 5, 10, and 15% SP, respectively. The absolute weight, growth rate, and relative growth were assessed to evaluate the growth performance. In addition, the color brightness, blue color relative brightness, and blue chanel ratio were evaluated using image processing software. The results indicated that adding 15% SP significantly increased the growth and color brightness of Beta fish. Meanwhile, the blue-color change in fish is slightly different among all treatments. Based on this research, SP that contained carotenoids is a potential source for enhancing the color brightness of Betta fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microalga Arthrospira platensis BEA 005B was produced in 11.4 m3 raceway photobioreactors and a culture medium based on commercial fertilisers and either freshwater or seawater. The biomass productivity of the reactors operated at a fixed dilution rate of 0.3 day−1 decreased from 22.9 g·m−2·day−1 when operated using freshwater to 16.3 g·m−2·day−1 when the biomass was produced using seawater. The protein content of the biomass produced in seawater was lower; however, the content of essential amino acids including valine, leucine and isoleucine was higher. Seawater also triggered the production of carotenoids and altered the synthesis and accumulation of fatty acids. For example, the biomass produced using seawater showed a 319% and 210% higher content of oleic and eicosenoic acid, respectively. The results demonstrate that it is possible to produce the selected microalga using seawater after an adaptation period and that the composition of the produced biomass is suitable for food applications. • The microalga A. platensis BEA 005B was produced using 11.4 m3 raceway reactors. • The biomass productivity was 16.3 g·m−2·day−1 when produced using seawater. • Seawater led to a higher concentration of essential amino acids. • Seawater triggered the synthesis of carotenoids mainly lutein and zeaxanthin. • Seawater led to a 319% and 210% higher content of oleic and eicosenoic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]