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High voltage power capacitors employ the oil-impregnated polypropylene film as the insulation. The swelling phenomenon might drive the antioxidants and small molecules within the film to migrate into the oil. It is necessary to comprehensively investigate the physical migration mechanism of antioxidants and their impact on the electrical performance of the oil-film combination insulation system and, consequently, formulate the proper selective prescription of antioxidants. Theoretical elucidation of the competitive interaction mechanism between the film and the oil in attracting antioxidant molecules was achieved through the calculation of inter-molecular binding energy, and the migration coefficient ηm was introduced to quantify the migration characteristics of antioxidants. Experimentally, the effects of antioxidants on the space charge distribution of the film, the dielectric properties of the oil, and the breakdown characteristics of both the film and oil were investigated. The experimental conclusions are consistent with theoretical analysis. The lamellar structure antioxidant molecules with ηm > 1 tend to migrate from the film to the oil, which results in increased dielectric loss and decreased breakdown strength of the insulating oil. In addition, the presence of phosphorus atoms in phosphite antioxidants contributes to a reduction in the breakdown strength of the film. For capacitor grade polypropylene film, in addition to the synergistic effect between different types of antioxidants on the thermo-oxidative stability, the structure of the antioxidant molecules and its influence on the electrical performance of the oil–film systems should also be taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrate ( NO 3 − ) has properties that can improve muscle function, leading to improvements in metabolic cost of exercise as well as enhance force production. Gymnastics is a whole-body sport, involving events that demand a high level of strength and fatigue resistance. However, the effect of NO 3 − supplementation on both upper- and lower-body function in gymnasts is unknown. This study examined the effect of acute beetroot juice (BRJ) supplementation on isokinetic strength and endurance of the upper- and lower-body in highly trained international-level male gymnasts. In a double-blind, randomized crossover design, 10 international-level male gymnasts completed two acute supplementation periods, consuming either 2 × 70 ml NO 3 − -rich (∼12.8 mmol/L of NO 3 − ) or NO 3 − -depleted (PLA) BRJ. Maximal strength of the upper-leg and upper-arm at 60°/s, 120°/s, 180°/s, and 300°/s, and muscular endurance (50 repeated isokinetic contractions at 180°/s) were assessed. Plasma NO 3 − (BRJ: 663 ± 164 μM, PLA: 89 ± 48 μM) and nitrite ( NO 2 − ) concentrations (BRJ: 410 ± 137 nmol/L, PLA: 125 ± 36 nmol/L) were elevated following BRJ compared to PLA (both p <.001). Maximal strength of knee and elbow extensors and flexors did not differ between supplements (p >.05 for all velocities). Similarly, fatigue index of knee and elbow extension and flexion was not different between supplements (all p >.05). Acute BRJ supplementation, containing ∼12.8 mmol/L of NO 3 − , increased plasma NO 3 − and NO 2 − concentrations, but did not enhance isokinetic strength or fatigue resistance of either upper or lower extremities in international-level male gymnasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the abundance of research investigating the efficacy of caffeine supplementation on exercise performance, the physiological and biochemical responses to caffeine supplementation during intermittent activities are less evident. This study investigated the acute effects of caffeine supplementation on measures of exercise performance, ratings of perceived exertion, and biomarkers of oxidative stress induced by an acute bout of sprint interval training. In a randomized crossover design, 12 healthy males (age: 26 ± 4 years, height: 177.5 ± 6 cm, body mass: 80.7 ± 7.6 kg) ingested 6 mg/kg of caffeine or placebo 60 min prior to performing sprint interval training (12 × 6 s "all-out sprints" interspersed by 60 s of rest). Performance scores and ratings of perceived exertion were assessed after every sprint. Blood samples were collected before supplementation, prior to and following each sprint, and 5 and 60 min after the last sprint. Caffeine had no effect on any performance measures, ratings of perceived exertion, or biomarkers of oxidative stress (p >.05). In conclusion, caffeine supplementation does not improve performance or decrease oxidative stress after an acute bout of sprint interval training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron is an essential element for life owing to its ability to participate in a diverse array of oxidation-reduction reactions. However, misregulation of iron-dependent redox cycling can also produce oxidative stress, contributing to cell growth, proliferation, and death pathways underlying aging, cancer, neurodegeneration, and metabolic diseases. Fluorescent probes that selectively monitor loosely bound Fe(II) ions, termed the labile iron pool, are potentially powerful tools for studies of this metal nutrient; however, the dynamic spatiotemporal nature and potent fluorescence quenching capacity of these bioavailable metal stores pose challenges for their detection. Here, we report a tandem activity-based sensing and labeling strategy that enables imaging of labile iron pools in live cells through enhancement in cellular retention. Iron green-1 fluoromethyl (IG1-FM) reacts selectively with Fe(II) using an endoperoxide trigger to release a quinone methide dye for subsequent attachment to proximal biological nucleophiles, providing a permanent fluorescent stain at sites of elevated labile iron. IG1-FM imaging reveals that degradation of the major iron storage protein ferritin through ferritinophagy expands the labile iron pool, while activation of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) antioxidant response elements (AREs) depletes it. We further show that lung cancer cells with heightened NRF2 activation, and thus lower basal labile iron, have reduced viability when treated with an iron chelator. By connecting labile iron pools and NRF2-ARE activity to a druggable metal-dependent vulnerability in cancer, this work provides a starting point for broader investigations into the roles of transition metal and antioxidant signaling pathways in health and disease.

Soil salinity is a major nutritional challenge with poor agriculture production characterized by high sodium (Na+) ions in the soil. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and biochar have received attention as a sustainable strategy to reduce biotic and abiotic stress. However, there is a lack of information regarding the incorporation of ZnO NPs with biochar to ameliorate the salinity stress (0, 50,100 mM). Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the potentials of ZnO NPs application (priming and foliar) alone and with a combination of biochar on the growth and nutrient availability of spinach plants under salinity stress. Results demonstrated that salinity stress at a higher rate (100 mM) showed maximum growth retardation by inducing oxidative stress, resulted in reduced photosynthetic rate and nutrient availability. ZnO NPs (priming and foliar) alone enhanced growth, chlorophyll contents and gas exchange parameters by improving the antioxidant enzymes activity of spinach under salinity stress. While, a significant and more pronounced effect was observed at combined treatments of ZnO NPs with biochar amendment. More importantly, ZnO NPs foliar application with biochar significantly reduced the Na+ contents in root 57.69%, and leaves 61.27% of spinach as compared to the respective control. Furthermore, higher nutrient contents were also found at the combined treatment of ZnO NPs foliar application with biochar. Overall, ZnO NPs combined application with biochar proved to be an efficient and sustainable strategy to alleviate salinity stress and improve crop nutritional quality under salinity stress. We inferred that ZnO NPs foliar application with a combination of biochar is more effectual in improving crop nutritional status and salinity mitigation than priming treatments with a combination of biochar.

This study aimed to assess the antioxidant capacity of lemon flavonoid extract Eriomin® (LE) and its impact on cholesterol metabolism in the context of healthy aging. We orally treated 24-month-old male Wistar rats with an LE (40 mg/kg) suspended in 0.3 mL of sunflower oil. At the same time, control groups received an equal volume of sunflower oil (CON) or remained untreated (ICON) daily for 4 weeks. We examined LEs effects on superoxide dismutase and catalase- and glutathione-related enzyme activities, the concentration of lipid peroxides and protein carbonyls, total oxidant status (TOS) and antioxidant status (TAS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) in the liver, jejunum, and ileum. We also measured total cholesterol, its biosynthetic precursors (lanosterol, lathosterol, desmosterol), its degradation products (bile acid precursors) in the serum, liver, jejunum, and ileum, and serum phytosterols (intestinal absorption markers). LE reduced TOS, TAS, and OSI (p < 0.05) compared with control values, indicating its consistent antioxidant action in all examined organs. LE lowered hepatic desmosterol (p < 0.05) while also reducing 7α- and 24-hydroxycholesterol levels in the liver and ileum (p < 0.01). Serum cholesterol, hepatic gene expression, and the immunostaining intensity of CYP7A1 were unchanged. In conclusion, LE exerted non-enzymatic antioxidant effects and reduced cholesterol degradation, reducing its biosynthesis products, thereby maintaining serum cholesterol levels.

BACKGROUND: Elephant seals exhibit extreme hypoxemic tolerance derived from repetitive hypoxia/reoxygenation episodes they experience during diving bouts. Real-time assessment of the molecular changes underlying protection against hypoxic injury in seals remains restricted by their at-sea inaccessibility. Hence, we developed a proliferative arterial endothelial cell culture model from elephant seals and used RNA-seq, functional assays, and confocal microscopy to assess the molecular response to prolonged hypoxia. RESULTS: Seal and human endothelial cells exposed to 1% O2 for up to 6 h respond differently to acute and prolonged hypoxia. Seal cells decouple stabilization of the hypoxia-sensitive transcriptional regulator HIF-1α from angiogenic signaling. Rapid upregulation of genes involved in glutathione (GSH) metabolism supports the maintenance of GSH pools, and intracellular succinate increases in seal but not human cells. High maximal and spare respiratory capacity in seal cells after hypoxia exposure occurs in concert with increasing mitochondrial branch length and independent from major changes in extracellular acidification rate, suggesting that seal cells recover oxidative metabolism without significant glycolytic dependency after hypoxia exposure. CONCLUSIONS: We found that the glutathione antioxidant system is upregulated in seal endothelial cells during hypoxia, while this system remains static in comparable human cells. Furthermore, we found that in contrast to human cells, hypoxia exposure rapidly activates HIF-1 in seal cells, but this response is decoupled from the canonical angiogenesis pathway. These results highlight the unique mechanisms that confer extraordinary tolerance to limited oxygen availability in a champion diving mammal.

Fluorescent proteins (FPs) are ubiquitous tools in research, yet their endogenous functions in nature are poorly understood. In this work, we describe a combination of functions for FPs in a clade of intertidal sea anemones whose FPs control a genetic color polymorphism together with the ability to combat oxidative stress. Focusing on the underlying genetics of a fluorescent green "Neon" color morph, we show that allelic differences in a single FP gene generate its strong and vibrant color, by increasing both molecular brightness and FP gene expression level. Natural variation in FP sequences also produces differences in antioxidant capacity. We demonstrate that these FPs are strong antioxidants that can protect live cells against oxidative stress. Finally, based on structural modeling of the responsible amino acids, we propose a model for FP antioxidant function that is driven by molecular surface charge. Together, our findings shed light on the multifaceted functions that can co-occur within a single FP and provide a framework for studying the evolution of fluorescence as it balances spectral and physiological functions in nature.

Diabetes is a chronic disease that induces many comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease, nephropathy, and liver damage. Many mechanisms have been suggested as to how diabetes leads to these comorbidities, of which increased oxidative stress in diabetic patients has been strongly implicated. Limited knowledge of antioxidative antidiabetic drugs and substances that can address diabetic comorbidities through the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway calls for detailed investigation. This review will describe how diabetes increases oxidative stress, the general impact of that oxidative stress, and how oxidative stress primarily contributes to diabetic comorbidities. It will also address how treatments for diabetes, especially focusing on their effects on the Nrf2 antioxidative pathway, have been shown to similarly affect the Nrf2 pathway of the heart, kidney, and liver systems. This review demonstrates that the Nrf2 pathway is a common pathogenic component of diabetes and its associated comorbidities, potentially identifying this pathway as a target to guide future treatments.

• Turkey tail mushroom has a history of use in traditional medicine in Asian and Europe. • Trametes versicolor contains phenols, polysaccharides, terpenoids, and other compounds with anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiaging, hepatoprotective, and anti-diabetic properties. • Summarizes the economic, nutritional and health significance, highlighting untapped medicinal potential of Turkey tail mushroom. • Polysaccharopeptides (PSP) and polysaccharopeptide krestin (PSK) derived from trametes have been extensively researched on their effect on cancer cells. Medicinal mushroom are known for their therapeutic capabilities and one such notable example is the Turkey tail mushroom (Trametes versicolor). This fascinating medicinal fungus, belonging to the genus Trametes that has been in used for centuries in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Asia. Turkey tail mushroom look-alikes due to the existence of diversity and variation in species.It is crucial to observe key morphological features for proper identification of fruiting bodies. The presence of phenols, polysaccharides, terpenoids, and other compounds in Turkey tail enrich its biological activities as a potent anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiaging, hepatoprotective, and anti-diabeticpropeties. Recent studies have explored the various metabolic activities of T. versicolor, highlighting important polysaccharides such as Polysaccharopeptides (PSP) and Polysaccharopeptide Krestin (PSK), which have been thoroughly researched for their effects on cancer cells. This review attempts to disclose the importance of Turkey tail mushrooms and their untapped medicinal potential to further benefit immunology studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder often accompanied by oxidative stress, which contributes to various diabetic complications. Investigating the antioxidant activity of linalool (LIN) is crucial as it may offer a natural therapeutic approach to mitigate oxidative damage in DM. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antioxidant activity of LIN in a DM rat model. A total of 40 male Wistar albino rats (age, 8 weeks; weight, 250-300 g) were used. CONTROL and DM groups were administered physiological saline solution by oral gavage for 21 days. In rats in the DM + LIN and LIN groups, 100 mg/kg LIN was administered intragastrically after streptozotocin injection (n=10 per group). In the first (48 h after STZ injection), second (1 week later), third (2 weeks later), and fourth (3 weeks later) blood glucose measurements, a statistically significant increase was found in the blood glucose values of the DM and DM + LIN groups compared with those of the CONTROL group. During the 21-day experimental period, there was no reduction in blood glucose levels of the DM + LIN group. Consequently, no discernible anti-hyperglycemic effect of LIN was observed. Catalase enzyme activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and glutathione (GSH) levels were measured spectrophotometrically. All assays were conducted according to the protocols provided in the respective kits. The results were analyzed to assess the oxidative status and antioxidant capacity in the experimental groups. Catalase (CAT) activity was decreased in the DM group compared with that in the CONTROL group in both the serum and liver. However, LIN administration restored CAT activity in the DM + LIN group to the level of the CONTROL group. In the liver, the DM + LIN-treated group showed a notable reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels compared with those in the DM group. In conclusion, the present results suggest that the antioxidant properties of LIN may have a regulatory effect on the oxidative status in diabetes-affected systems, potentially offering therapeutic benefits in managing oxidative stress associated with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Creeping savory is a wild plant that is used for comestible consumption, preparation of beverages, and production of sanitary ware and herbal drugs. To investigate the effects of salinity stress and salicylic acid on antioxidant enzymes, photosynthetic pigments, relative water content, proline, and soluble protein content in S. spicigera a factorial experiment was conducted based on a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and three replications. The experiment was implemented at the greenhouse of Agriculture and Natural Resources Research and Education Center of Kermanshah, Iran (2019). Experimental treatments were four levels of salinity (0-50-100-150 mM NaCl) and two levels of salicylic acid (0 and 2 mM). Results showed that increasing salinity levels caused a significant reduction in relative water content, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, and carotenoid content. Salinity drastically enhanced the antioxidant activities (SOD, POD, and CAT), and cell proline content. Salicylic acid considerably decreased proline content under salt stress conditions, but improved antioxidant activities of SOD, POD, and CAT, and enhanced chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoid content, protein content, relative water content, and leaf fresh weight under salt stress. Salicylic acid reduced the destructive effect of salinity on some morphological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics in creeping savory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micronutrients like iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), boron (B), nickel (Ni), and molybdenum (Mo) perform significant roles in the regulation of plant metabolism, growth, and development. Micronutrients, namely Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, and Ni, are involved in oxidative stress and antioxidant defense as they are cofactors or activators of various antioxidant enzymes, viz., superoxide dismutase (Fe, Cu/Zn, Mn, and Ni), catalase (Fe), and ascorbate peroxidase (Fe). An effort has been made to incorporate recent advances along with classical work done on the micronutrient deficiency-induced oxidative stress and associated antioxidant responses of plants. Deficiency of a micronutrient produces ROS in the cellular compartments. Enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense systems are often modulated by micronutrient deficiency to regulate redox balance and scavenge deleterious ROS for the safety of cellular constituents. ROS can strike cellular constituents such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids and can destruct cellular membranes and proteins. ROS might act as a signaling molecule and activate the antioxidant proteins by interacting with signaling partners such as respiratory burst oxidase homolog (RBOH), G-proteins, Ca2+, mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and various transcription factors (TFs). Opinions on probable ROS signaling under micronutrient deficiency have been described in this review. However, further research is required to decipher micronutrient deficiency-induced ROS generation, perception, and associated downstream signaling events, leading to the development of antioxidant responses in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The methanol extract of Inula viscosa (IVM) was investigated for its antioxidant potential using the DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging as well as iron chelating assays (ICA). The total phenol (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC) of IVM were determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum trichloride methods, respectively. Antimicrobial activity of different concentrations of I. viscosa methanol extract was investigated by disc diffusion and broth microdilution method. The IVM extract was found to be containing TPC (236.78 ± 7.63 mg GAE/g) and TFC (94.36 ± 1.86 mg QE/g). Antioxidant activity IC50 values for the DPPH, ABTS and ICA assays were found to be 277.7 ± 3.68, 2.44 ± 0.02, and 222.1 ± 0.71 µg/mL, respectively. The MIC values of the IVM on the tested microorganisms ranged from 0.48 to 7.81 mg/mL. Furthermore, IVM extract was demonstrated 18.32 ± 1.37%, 23.06 ± 1.05%, 4.72 ± 0.13%, 15.13 ± 0.37% and 37.64 ± 4.02% inhibition against tyrosinase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, AChE and BChE, respectively. In the results of LC-MS/MS analysis, acacetin, quercetin, chlorogenic acid and protocatechuic acid were determined as most dominant compounds. These findings suggested that this plant may be a natural resource for creating novel medicinal compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The consumption of oxidised oil had been linked with health issues such as heart diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of natural and synthetic antioxidants on palm olein during microwave heating. The microwave heating of palm olein with or without antioxidants (butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and α‐tocopherol) was conducted at 300, 600, and 1000 W for 1, 3, and 5 min and analysed. Palm olein with α‐tocopherol displayed the lowest conjugated diene (<0.98) and conjugated triene (<0.65) than palm olein. The presence of α‐tocopherol showed higher or comparable oxidative stability (4.88 para‐anisidine value, 13.76 total oxidation value) against BHA in palm olein during microwave heating. The high oxidation stability of microwave‐heated palm olein with α‐tocopherol demonstrated its potential as a natural antioxidant substitution from synthetic antioxidant. The palm olein with α‐tocopherol could be further evaluated through repeated microwave heating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum), native to the Andes and a PANC in Brazil, contains bioactive compounds with potential anticancer properties in vitro. This study aimed to assess the influence of tamarillo extracts for their antioxidant activity, chemical composition and antiproliferative effects on human prostate cells. Aqueous (AE) and ethanolic extracts (EE) were tested, revealing higher phenolic content and superior antioxidant activity in EE (TPC: 1191.78 ± 28.16 mg GAE/100 g, DPPH: 514.90 μmol TE g−1; FRAP: 150.35 ± 4.42 μmol Fe2SO4 g−1). UPLC‐MS analysis identified twenty‐two compound classes, mainly flavonoids (eleven), carboxylic acids and derivatives (eight), organooxygen compounds (eight) and fatty acyls (seven). Tamarillo extracts significantly reduced cell viability in DU‐145 and PC‐3 cells by almost 60% in 48 h, with PC‐3 cells showing greater resilience and a 30% reduction with EE. Additionally, tamarillo extracts induced cell cycle arrest (G2/M phase) and apoptosis, suggesting their potential as natural antioxidants with protective effects against prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to address the question: does antioxidant-containing embryo culture media affect DNA methyltransferases, global DNA methylation, inner cell mass/trophoblast differentiation, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and apoptosis? Mouse zygotes were cultured in embryo culture media containing MitoQ, N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC), acetyl-l-carnitine (ALC), α-lipoic acid (ALA), or the mixture of NAC + ALC + ALA (AO) until the blastocyst stage, whereas in vivo-developed blastocysts were used as control. Protein expression levels of Dnmt1, 3a, 3b, and 3l enzymes were analyzed by immunofluorescence and western blot, while global DNA methylation, apoptosis, and ROS levels were evaluated by immunofluorescence. NAC, ALC, and MitoQ significantly increased the levels of all Dnmts and global methylation. ALA significantly induced all Dnmts, whereas global methylation did not show any difference. NAC and mixture AO applications significantly induced Nanog levels, ALA and MitoQ increased Cdx2 levels, while the other groups were similar. ALA and MitoQ decreased while ALC increased the levels of intracellular ROS. This study illustrates that antioxidants, operating through distinct pathways, have varying impacts on DNA methylation levels and cell differentiation in mouse embryos. Further investigations are warranted to assess the implications of these alterations on the subsequent offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary metabolites are often among the major players in plants' function, stability, support, bioactivities, defense mechanisms, and therapeutic applications. One of the major components of these metabolites is volatile oils. Essential oils are considered one of the most important ways in which plants express themselves through aroma. The oils are also one of the reasons for therapy, mood-upliftment, life processes, plants and dependent organisms' survival, joy, happiness, aesthetic beauty, and attractions in several realms, as well as for various interactive species, including insects, animals, and humans. In addition, essential oils participate in modern industries and worldwide healthcare systems. Aromatic plants and their extracted and distilled volatile oils have been used in different systems of traditional medicine and in all ancient civilizations. They are also still used as part of modern healthcare systems and in folkloric therapeutic and prophylactic applications. Therefore, the chemistry, bio-based diversity, geographic sources, biological activities, and clinical applications of volatile oils have gained the momentum and continued attention of researchers, culminating in several thousand publications each year. This review provides updated information on the biological activities and current applications of essential oils in medicine and other healthcare uses. The underlined biomechanistic details of the volatile oils' biological effects are also encompassed. The collected data unambiguously supported the biological importance of this class of secondary metabolites, especially in cancer, inflammation, and microbial infection management. The information contained in the data also highlighted the therapeutic importance of these molecules in various aspects of medicine. [Display omitted] • The sources and biogenesis of essential oils (EOs) were discussed. • The review provides updated information on the biological activities and applications of EOs. • Detailed biomechanistic of the EOs' biological effects were encompassed. • The data supported the importance of EOs in cancer, inflammation, and infection management. • The review highlighted the therapeutic importance of volatile oils in medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Although the nutritional composition of organic food has been thoroughly researched, there is a dearth of published data relating to its impact on human health. Objective This systematic review aimed to examine the association between organic food intake and health effects, including changes in in vivo biomarkers, disease prevalence, and functional changes. Data Sources PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception through Nov 13, 2022. Data Extraction Both observational and interventional studies conducted in human populations were included, and association between level of organic food intake and each outcome was quantified as "no association," "inconsistent," "beneficial correlation/harmful correlation," or "insufficient". For outcomes with sufficient data reported by at least 3 studies, meta-analyses were conducted, using random-effects models to calculate standardized mean differences. Data Analysis Based on the included 23 observational and 27 interventional studies, the association between levels of organic food intake and (i) pesticide exposure biomarker was assessed as "beneficial correlation," (ii) toxic metals and carotenoids in the plasma was assessed as "no association," (iii) fatty acids in human milk was assessed as "insufficient," (iv) phenolics was assessed as "beneficial", and serum parameters and antioxidant status was assessed as "inconsistent". For diseases and functional changes, there was an overall "beneficial" association with organic food intake, and there were similar findings for obesity and body mass index. However, evidence for association of organic food intake with other single diseases was assessed as "insufficient" due to the limited number and extent of studies. Conclusion Organic food intake was found to have a beneficial impact in terms of reducing pesticide exposure, and the general effect on disease and functional changes (body mass index, male sperm quality) was appreciable. More long-term studies are required, especially for single diseases. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022350175. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rampant use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of multidrug resistance and is often coupled with gut dysbiosis. To circumvent the harmful impact of antibiotics, probiotics have emerged as an effective intervention. However, while the new probiotics are being added to the list, more recently, the nature and role of their counterparts, viz. prebiotics, postbiotics and parabiotics have also drawn considerable attention. As such, intricate relationships among these gut-biotics vis-à-vis their role in imparting health benefits is to be delineated in a holistic manner. Prebiotic dietary fibers are selectively fermented by probiotics and promote their colonization in the gut. The proliferation of probiotics leads to production of fermentation by-products (postbiotics) which affect the growth of enteropathogens by lowering the pH and producing inhibitory bacteriocins. After completing life-cycle, their dead remnants (parabiotics e.g. exopolysaccharides and cell wall glycoproteins) also inhibit adhesion and biofilm formation of pathogens on the gut epithelium. These beneficial effects are not just endemic to gut but a systemic response is witnessed at different gut-organ axes. Thus, to decipher the role of probiotics, it is imperative to unravel the interdependence between these components. This review elaborates on the recent advancements on various aspects of these gut-biotics and the mechanism of potential attributes like anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-neoplastic, anti-lipidemic and anti-hyperglycemic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Glycine is a conditional non-essential amino acid in human and other mammals. It is abundant in the liver and is known for a wide spectrum of characteristics including the antioxidant, antiinflammatory, immunomodulatory, and cryoprotective effects. The amino acid is a naturally occurring osmolyte compatible with protein surface interactions and has been reported in literature as a potent therapeutic immuno-nutrient for liver diseases such as alcoholic liver disease. Oral glycine administration protects ethanol-induced liver injury, improves serum and tissue lipid profile, and alleviates hepatic injury in various conditions. In recent years, sodium salt of boron (borax) has been reported for its beneficial effects on cellular stress, including the effects on cell survival, immunity, and tissue redox state. Incidentally both glycine and boron prevent apoptosis and promote cell survival under stress. Objective: This study investigates the beneficial effect of borax on liver protection by glycine. Methods: Briefly, liver toxicity was induced in rats by a single intraperitoneal injection of thioacetamide (400 mg/kg b. wt.). Results: Significant changes in oxidative stress and liver function test parameters, the molybdenum Fe-S flavin hydroxylase activity, nitric oxide and tissue histopathology were observed in thioacetamide treated positive control group. The changes were ameliorated both by glycine as well as borax, but the combinatorial treatment yielded a better response indicating the impact of boron supplementation on glycine mediated protection of liver injury in experimental animal model. Conclusions: The study has clinical implications as the hepatotoxicity caused by thioacetamide mimics features of hepatitis C infection in human. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The community uses Tetracera indica (Christm. and Panz.) Merr extensively as a traditional medicine. This plant was the main source of raw materials for herbal medicinal products, so identification was needed to ensure its authenticity through pharmacognosy evaluation. The present study evaluated macros- and microscopic characteristics, performed phytochemical analysis, and performed total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid content (TFC) analysis. The organoleptic and macroscopic studies were carried out through sensory organs. The microscopic characteristics of leaf powder and twigs identification using chloral hydrate and distilled water. Numerous chemical reagents, TLC methods and LC-MS/MS analysis were employed in the phytochemical study. Research employed DPPH and FRAP tests to assess the antioxidant activity. Furthermore, quercetin was used as a marker of antioxidant activity. The morphological marker of the leaf T. indica showed the surface of the leaves is rough bristles, shape elliptic-oblong, margin serratus and phyllotaxy alternate. The stem is lignosus, and the rough stem surface is slightly peeling. The lower leaf surface had paracytic stomata and uniseriate trichomes with tapering ends. Raphide crystals and cork cells were detected in the powder analysis of the twigs. The ethyl acetate extract's twig had the highest TPC and TFC values. Ethyl acetate extract from Tetracera indica twigs has potent antioxidant activity with IC50 = 99.84±0.011 µg/ml (DPPH) and 4296.67±0.024 mol/g (FRAP). The study showed that Tetracera indica contains possible active components that could be developed as novel antioxidants. The result of this study might provide early verification and identification to obtain quality medicinal raw materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main interests in the food industry is the preservation of food from spoilage by microorganisms or lipid oxidation. A novel alternative is the development of additives of natural origin with dual activity. In the present study, a chemically modified lysozyme (Lys) with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) was developed to obtain a conjugate (Lys-EGCG) with antibacterial/antioxidant activity to improve its properties and increase its application potential. The modification reaction was carried out using a free radical grafting method for the Lys modification reaction, using ascorbic acid and hydrogen peroxide as radical initiators in an aqueous medium. The synthesis of Lys-EGCG conjugate was confirmed by spectroscopic (FT-IR, 1H-RMN, and XPS) and calorimetry differential scanning (DSC) analyses. The EGCG binding to the Lys biomolecule was quantified by the Folin-Ciocalteu method; the antibacterial activity was evaluated by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MCB) against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas fluorescens; the antioxidant activity was evaluated by ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP. The spectroscopic results showed that the Lys-EGCG conjugate was successfully obtained, and the DSC analysis revealed a 20 °C increase (P < 0.05) in the denaturation temperature of Lys due to EGCG modification. The EGCG concentration in Lys-EGCG was 97.97 ± 4.7 µmol of EGCG/g of sample. The antibacterial and antioxidant activity of the Lys-EGCG conjugate was higher (P < 0.05) than pure EGCG and Lys. The chemical modification of Lys with EGCG allows for the bioconjugate with a dual function (antibacterial/antioxidant), broadening the range of Lys and EGCG applications to different areas such as food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: 'Unavoidable pollutants', 'natural poisons', 'invisible thieves', and 'silent killers' are the popular names of a group of fundal metabolites, mycotoxins, and the disease caused by these toxins is referred to as mycotoxicosis. In poultry, this disease usually occurs when mycotoxins-producing fungi grow on grain and feed. Although more than 500 different mycotoxins have been identified, scientists have focussed only on mycotoxins of medical and agricultural concern, which are found to be toxic. The pathogenesis and therapeutics of mycotoxicosis in poultry production remain essential challenges. Oxidative stress is a driving force in the pathogenesis of mycotoxicosis. Oxidative stress induces cellular and nuclear damage and mitochondrial dysfunction through the overproduction of reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species. Furthermore, mycotoxins induce ribosomal stress that activates multiple cellular pathways, such as nuclear transcription factor κβ and mitogen-activated protein kinase. Activation of these aberrant cellular signalling pathways and oxidative stress triggers a cascade of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contributes to apoptosis and tissue/organ dysfunction, such as immunosuppression, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and gastrointestinal tract toxicity. The consequences of this toxicity lead to poor feed conversion, feed refusal, poor growth rate, reduced fertility, and reduced hatchability of poultry. Therefore, optimally, a better understanding of the disease pathogenesis and oxidative stress is needed to identify specific and targeted therapeutic approaches to combat mycotoxicosis in poultry. This review describes the pathogenesis of mycotoxicosis with particular emphasis on oxidative stress in poultry. This also paves the way for preventive and therapeutic approaches aimed at limiting oxidative stress that can enhance growth, fertility, and production in poultry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We attempted to study the response of six rice cultivars, viz., BPT 5204, CR 1009, TRY 1, CO 50, Jodimattai, and CO 46, to salt stress under in vitro conditions. In this study, we report the highest relative growth rate (RGR) in BPT 5204 and TRY1, suggesting that these could maintain a higher relative fresh mass of the callus to survive salt stress. For regeneration frequency (RF), genotype TRY 1 registered the highest RF (35%) in the control (0 mM NaCl), but a significant reduction in RF (66%) was observed at 90, 120, and 150 mM NaCl. The genotypes CO 50, CR 1009, and BPT 5204 registered the lowest regeneration frequency (6.7%) and produced a moderate number of shoots. The biochemical nature of stress implies that proline content decreases in the control and progressively increases from 30 to 90 mM but gradually decreases with higher salt concentrations. The proline content was high for both tolerant (BPT 5204) and sensitive (CO-46) cultivars, implying that proline gives adaptiveness rather than growth. Our results provide unique insight into the antioxidant (catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) properties of callus culture. Antioxidants act as potential reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavengers and provide adaptive mechanisms to plants. The antioxidant enzyme activities increased progressively with increasing NaCl concentration in the medium, showing that antioxidants augment the stress and provide an adaptive mechanism. The genotypes BPT 5204 and TRY1 had a significant level of enzyme activities at 90, 120, and 150 mM NaCl treatment, whereas the other genotypes seemed to have reduced enzymatic activities. Hence, the genotypes BPT 5204 and TRY1 were better in their performance for the above parameters, which showed growth and biochemical homeostasis in response to salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth regulators are an appealing and fast-track method for overcoming the drastic effects of drought. Paclobutrazol (PBZ), a member of the triazole family, is a versatile chemical compound that acts as a growth regulator and retardant. This study assessed the effect of two concentrations of PBZ (30 and 60 mg L–1) on strawberry plants under two drought stress levels [40% and 80% field capacity (FC)] and 100% FC set as the control. The findings revealed that drought significantly affected strawberry plants, elevating the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) like hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hydroxide ion (OH–), and superoxide ion (O2–), and reactive carbonyl species (RCS) like malondialdehyde (MDA), methylglyoxal (MG), 4-hydroxy-(E)-2-hexenal (HEE), acetone, propionaldehyde (PD), acetaldehyde (ACD), and formaldehyde (FMD), due to decreased antioxidant activities. The study also found that glutathione (GSH) is crucial in ROS and RCS scavenging. In addition, the presence of thiol groups (–SH compounds) in strawberry plants under moderate and severe drought stress was a noteworthy finding. Due to excess thiol production, drought stress significantly decreased MDA, MG, HEE, PD, ACD, FMD, and acetone levels. However, PBZ application decreased the total thiol content in strawberry leaves. Furthermore, PBZ improved plant growth and development by modulating the production of endogenous growth hormones such as abscisic acid, indole-3-acetic acid, ethylene, gibberellic acid, strigolactones, and brassinosteroids, while increasing cytokinin levels. These changes led to enhanced enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities, reduced stomatal conductance, increased relative water content in leaves, improved chlorophyll content, elevated photosynthetic rate, and ultimately enhanced increased fruit yield. Moreover, drought stress enhanced metabolic activity (α-tocopherol, β-carotene, total phenolic content, anthocyanin, and proline) in strawberry plants, indicating that metabolites also function as stress scavengers/protectors. This study shed light on crucial physiological mechanisms underlying ROS- and RCS-induced oxidative stresses and their management in strawberry plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the antibacterial activity of Phyllanthus amarus extracts and its influence on the performance of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings. The fish were fed diets containing 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 or 2.0 g P. amarus methanol extract (PAE) / kg basal diet for 84 days. Thereafter, blood samples were collected for hematological and biochemical analyses. At the end of the 84-day feeding trial, fish were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila, after which immune response parameters were measured. The data obtained were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance at p<0.05. The results showed significant antibacterial activity of PAE against A. hydrophila, and its application at 0.5-1.5 g significantly promoted growth performance, with the highest at 1.0 g. Hematocrit, hemoglobin and lymphocytes were enhanced at 0.5-1.5 g PAE. All the fishes fed PAE-supplemented diets had lower concentrations of serum liver enzymes; while the values of creatinine, glucose and total bilirubin did not differ among the treatments. Glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, lysozyme, phagocytic and respiratory burst activities increased in all PAE-fortified treatments, with highest fish survival in 1.0 g PAE treatment. Therefore, the inclusion of 1.0 g Phyllanthus amarus extract is recommended as a dietary supplement for Clarias gariepinus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First episode mild depression (FE-MDD) is characterized by elevated malondialdehyde. • FE-MDD is characterized by increased NO production and lowered antioxidant defenses. • Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with nitro-oxidative stress. • Negative life events (NLEs) are associated with nitro-oxidative stress. • ACEs and NLEs and nitro-oxidative stress are associated with the depression phenome. Undergraduate students are frequently afflicted by major depressive disorder (MDD). Oxidative and nitrosative stress (O&NS) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of MDD. There is no information regarding whether mild outpatient MDD (SDMD) and first episode SDMD (FE-SDMD) are accompanied by O&NS. The current study compared lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH), malondialdehyde (MDA), advanced protein oxidation products, nitric oxide metabolites (NOx), thiol groups, plasma total antioxidant potential (TRAP), and paraoxonase 1 activities among SDMD and FE-SDMD patients versus healthy controls. We found that SDMD and FE-SDMD exhibit elevated MDA and NOx, and decreased TRAP and LOOH as compared with controls. There was a significant and positive correlation between O&NS biomarkers and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and negative life events (NLEs). O&NS pathways, NLEs and ACEs accounted for 51.7 % of the variance in the phenome of depression, and O&NS and NLS explained 42.9 % of the variance in brooding. Overall, these results indicate that SDMD and FE-SDMD are characterized by reduced total antioxidant defenses and increased aldehyde and NOx production. The combined effects of oxidative and psychological stressors are substantially associated with the manifestation of SDMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The drive towards ensuring the sustainability of bioresources has been linked with better valorising primary materials and developing biorefinery pipelines. Seaweeds constitute valuable coastal resources with applications in the bioenergy, biofertiliser, nutrition, pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors. Owing to the various sought‐after metabolites they possess, several seaweed species are commercially exploited throughout Western Europe, including Ireland. Here, four commercially relevant brown (Fucus serratus and Fucus vesiculosus) and red (Chondrus crispus and Mastocarpus stellatus) seaweed species were sampled during a spring tide in July 2021 on moderately exposed shores across three coastal regions in the west of Ireland. RESULTS: Significant regional differences were identified when specimens were analysed for carbohydrates (max. 80.3 μg glucose eq mg−1 DW), proteins (max. 431.3 μg BSA eq. mg−1 DW), lipids (max. 158.6 mg g−1 DW), pigment signature and antioxidant potential. Protein content for F. serratus recorded a twofold difference between northern and southern specimens. The antioxidant potential of F. vesiculosus and M. stellatus returned greater activity compared to F. serratus and C. crispus, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed a clear latitudinal pattern across the three western coastal regions (north, west and south) for both F. vesiculosus and F. serratus. CONCLUSION: F. vesiculosus thalli from the northwest were richer in pigment content while the F. serratus thalli from the northwest were richer in antioxidants. Such biogeographic patterns in the biochemical make‐up of seaweeds need consideration for the development of regional integrated aquaculture systems and the optimisation of the biomass content for targeted downstream applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Foods contain lipids that are easily susceptible to oxidation, which can modify their sensory properties. Although these compounds provide characteristic flavours and odours, there are also unwanted compounds, such as volatile secondary oxidation products, representing a recurring problem for both the industry and consumers. Synthetic antioxidants are often employed to prevent this but their chronic consumption can be detrimental to human health. The present study evaluates the antioxidant potential of ethanolic extracts from Ganoderma resinaceum and Phlebopus bruchii using an accelerated oxidation test. RESULTS: The composition profile of the extracts was investigated, identifying the presence of tryptophan, quinic acid, caffeic acid and 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylglycol‐phenolic acid. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was compared with that of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) in sunflower oil that was oven‐heated at 60 °C. Chemical (peroxide value, p‐anisidine value and conjugated dienes) and volatile (2‐octenal, 2‐heptenal and 2,4‐decadienal) indicators were measured over 28 days. The peroxide value decreased for both extracts at a similar level to that of BHT 0.02% w/w, and conjugate dienes decreased in the presence of G. resinaceum 0.1% w/w. Meanwhile, p‐anisidine exhibited a slightly greater decrease for P. bruchii 0.1% w/w than for BHT. The sample with 0.1% w/w of extracts showed a reduction in volatile secondary oxidation compounds, indicating significant antioxidant activity. CONCLUSION: Based on these results, both extracts could be proposed as potential antioxidants in foods with a high lipid content. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to develop gluten-free Riceberry rice pasta supplemented with cricket powder using a twin-screw extruder, contributing valuable knowledge to increasing the nutritional value of pasta through sustainable practices, nutritional enhancement, and novel ingredients. The D-optimal mixture design, an effective statistical tool for optimizing formulation, was used to determine the optimal proportions of Riceberry rice flour (RF, 75-90%), cricket powder (CP, 5-20%), and xanthan gum (XG, 1-5%). The results showed that all predictive models were statistically significant with satisfactory coefficients of determination (R² ≥ 0.75), and exhibited a non-significant lack of fit. The contour plot demonstrated that pasta with high RF, XG, and low CP contents had the lowest L* and highest a* values. The incorporation of XG increased firmness, while an increase in CP led to higher protein and fat contents in the pasta. A decrease in RF resulted in reduced total phenolic content (TPC), anthocyanin content (ATC), and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) scavenging activity (AOA). The sensory evaluation scores of the pasta, in terms of the texture attribute and overall acceptance, decreased as the proportion of XG increased. The optimization analysis showed that the highest desirability was achieved with RF, CP, and XG at 84.10, 14.45, and 1.45%, respectively. The optimally desirable product had the following properties: L* at 22.60, a* at 4.80, b* at 4.78, firmness at 3.41 N, protein content at 12.57%, fat content at 4.68%, TPC at 360.13 mg GAE/100 g dw, ATC at 476.24 mg C3G/100 g dw, AOA at 25.10 mg TE/100 g dw, texture rating at 7.40, and overall acceptance rating at 7.01. This study highlights the potential of cricket powder as a protein source in gluten-free Riceberry rice pasta. It offers insights into the effects of ingredients on pasta quality and facilitates the development of nutritious and appealing gluten-free pasta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oxidative stress (OS) is one of the major causes of ovarian aging and dysfunction. Indole-3-propionic acid (IPA) is an indole compound derived from tryptophan with free radical scavenging and antioxidant properties, and thus may have potential applications in protecting ovarian function, although the exact mechanisms are unknown. This study aims to preliminarily elucidate the potential mechanisms of IPA that benefit ovarian reserve function through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental verification. Methods: The related protein targets of IPA were searched on SwissTargetPrediction, TargetNet, BATMAN-TCM, and PharmMapper databases. The potential targets of diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) were identified from OMIM, GeneCards, DrugBank, and DisGeNET databases. The common targets were uploaded directly to the STRING database to construct PPI networks. We then performed GO and KEGG enrichment analysis on the targets. Subsequently, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation were used to validate the binding conformation of IPA to candidate targets. Furthermore, we carried out in vitro experiments to validate the prediction results of network pharmacology. Results: We identified a total of 61 potential targets for the interaction of IPA with DOR. The PPI network topological parameter analysis yielded 13 hub genes for DOR treatment. The GO biological process enrichment analysis identified 293 entries, mainly enriched in aging, signal transduction, response to hypoxia, negative regulation of apoptotic process, and positive regulation of cell proliferation. The KEGG enrichment analysis mainly included lipid and atherosclerosis, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, AGE-RAGE, relaxin, estrogen, and other signaling pathways. The molecular docking further revealed the direct binding of IPA with six hub proteins including NOS3, AKT1, EGFR, PPARA, SRC, and TNF. In vitro experiments showed that IPA pretreatment attenuated H2O2-induced cellular oxidative stress damage, while IPA exerted cytoprotective and antioxidant damage effects by regulating the six hub genes and antioxidant proteins. Conclusion: We systematically illustrated the potential protective effects of IPA against DOR through multiple targets and pathways using network pharmacology, and further verified the cytoprotective effect and antioxidant properties of IPA through in vitro experiments. These findings provide new insights into the targets and molecular mechanisms whereby IPA improves DOR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated and compared the phytochemical and antioxidant properties of the solvent extracts of Azadirachta indica A. Juss and Vernonia amygdalina Del leaves. Methanolic and aqueous extracts showed high (P ≤ 0.05) extract yields (in %), compared to chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts from both V. amygdalina and A. indica leaves. The study exhibited high phytochemical content in methanol and aqueous extracts compared to chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts, confirming the potential for medicinal use. V. amygdalina methanol and aqueous extracts had higher (P ≤ 0.05) total phenolic content (TPC), in mg GAE/gDW, (158.810±0.846 and 217.883±0.265, respectively) than chloroform (37.574±0.118) and ethyl acetate (104.758±0.236) but higher ethyl acetate content in A. indica extracts. Low polar solvents extracted high (P ≤ 0.05) total flavonoids, in mgQE/gDW, (367.051±0.858 and 149.808±0.009) compared to high polar solvents (14.863±0.071 and 54.226±0.014) in V. amygdalina while as in A. indica leaf extracts, low polar solvents showed high TFC (658.469±3.451 and 275.288±10.490) compared to high polar solvents (26.312±0.063 and 48.858±0.063) respectively. In vitro total antioxidant capacity, in mg/g, was higher in polar solvents than in low-polar solvents, ranging from 34.300±1.784 to 121.015±6.839 for A. indica ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts. A strong correlation between TPC and tannic acid content was observed, except in A. indica methanolic extracts of A. indica. Ferric reducing power was high, except for V. amygdalina chloroform and methanol leaf extracts, which were lower (P≤ 0.05) than that of the standard ascorbic acid. The study revealed that high polar solvents, such as methanol and water, are more efficient in the extraction of antioxidants from A. indica but lower in V. amygdalina extracts. High phytochemical content and antioxidative capacity could be significant in treating various diseases in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]