Changes in the anthocyanin pathway related to phenolic compounds and gene expression in skin and pulp of cv. 'Istrska belica' (Olea europaea L.) during ripening.

The purpose of research was to study in detail the dynamics of the anthocyanin pathway during the ripening of olives, comprising the relative gene expression of nine enzymes and the contents of twelve phenolic compounds. The analyses were conducted on cv. 'Istrska belica' at seven maturity stages, separately in the pulp and the skin. Most phenolic compounds showed a higher content in the skin than in the pulp. Results showed that the accumulation of dihidroquercetin and dihydromyricetin started at the latest maturity stages. The most abundant phenolics evaluated in the current study present in both tissues were cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside and delphinidin-3-O-glucoside, both presented at all maturity stages, even when colour was not yet visible in the skin or pulp. Gene expression of enzymes revealed tissue-specific regulation during ripening. Genes expressions for phenylalanine ammonia lyase, chalcone synthase, chalcone isomerase, flavonoid 3-hydroxylase and flavonoid 3'-hydroxylase showed higher levels in the skin than in the pulp, and an upregulation during ripening in both tissues. Anthocyanidin synthase was the only gene with the highest expression at the beginning of ripening, with extreme decrease between second and third maturity stage, which suggests that the enzyme is mainly synthesized at the beginning of ripening and that enzyme activation starts at latest maturity stages. Our research contributes to a better understanding of the dynamics of phenolic accumulation and the relative gene expression of enzymes involved in the anthocyanin pathway in reveals tissue-specific changes during olive fruit ripening. The previous results are also supported by physical changes, which are reflected in a statistical increase in fruit weight, a decrease in fruit firmness and also by changes in appearance observed during ripening. Understanding the accumulation of anthocyanins could, through further study, help to improve the quality of the fruit and therefore the quality of olive products.

Proline Priming Enhances Seed Vigour and Biochemical Attributes of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) during Germination.

Seed vigour is a desirable trait especially for direct seeded rice (DSR) cultivation. Seeds with high vigour could improve seed germination, support seedlings in competing with weeds for water and nutrients, and improving seedling establishment throughout the early stages of crop growth. The success of DSR system which account for more 25% of world cultivation areas is highly dependent on the seed vigour and seedling establishment. Seed priming is a promising technique to improve seed vigour. Proline is an amino acid that has been well studied for its roles in plants under different environmental stress conditions. Nevertheless, the effect of proline as a seed priming agent in improving seed vigour in rice remain elusive. In this research, the effect of 24 h of proline priming at various concentrations (0 mM, 1 mM, 2 mM, 10 mM and 20 mM) on rice seed vigour, amylase activity, and total soluble sugar (TSS) content of a Malaysia indica rice variety, MR269 was investigated. Results showed that seeds primed with lower concentration of proline (0 mM, 1 mM and 2 mM) had better germination responses while priming at high concentrations (10 mM and 20 mM) reduced seed germination. Among the concentration tested, priming with 1 mM proline enhanced seed vigour with significantly higher germination percentage (GP), germination rate index (GRI) and seedling vigour index (SVI). In addition, proline primed seeds also exhibited increased amylase activity and TSS content as compared to unprimed seeds. However, priming seed with 20 mM proline was detrimental to the seed vigour and seedling growth whereby lower GP, GRI and SVI and higher mean germination time (MGT) were observed. In short, this study shows that proline could be a potential seed priming agent to improve seed vigour in rice.

Abstrak: Vigor benih merupakan sifat yang diingini dalam penanaman padi terutamanya dalam sistem pembenihan langsung (DSR). Benih dengan vigor yang tinggi boleh meningkatkan kadar percambahan, menyokong anak benih untuk bersaing dengan rumpai untuk mendapatkan air dan nutrien, serta meningkatkan pertumbuhan anak benih pada peringkat awal tanaman. Kejayaan sistem DSR yang merangkumi lebih 25% kawasan penanaman dunia sangat bergantung kepada vigor benih dan penubuhan anak benih. Rawatan biji benih merupakan satu teknik yang mampu meningkatkan vigor benih. Prolin merupakan asid amino yang mempunyai peranan yang penting dalam tumbuhan di bawah keadaan tekanan persekitaran yang berbeza. Namun begitu, kesan prolin sebagai agen rawatan benih dalam meningkatkan vigor benih masih lagi tidak jelas. Dalam penyelidikan ini, kesan larutan prolin pada kepekatan yang berlainan (0 mM, 1 mM, 2 mM, 10 mM dan 20 mM) ke atas vigor benih padi, aktiviti amilase, dan jumlah kandungan gula larut (TSS) telah dikaji. Keputusan menunjukkan benih yang dirawat dengan kepekatan prolin yang rendah (0 mM, 1 mM, and 2 mM) menunjukkan kadar percambahan yang lebih baik manakala rawatan pada kepekatan yang tinggi (10 mM and 20 mM) mengurangkan kadar percambahan. Rawatan dengan 1 mM larutan prolin didapati dapat meningkatkan peratusan percambahan (GP), indeks kadar percambahan (GRI) dan indeks vigor benih (SVI) berbanding rawatan yang lain. Selain daripada itu, biji benih yang dirawat juga menunjukkan peningkatan aktiviti amilase dan TSS berbanding dengan biji benih tidak prima. Walau bagaimanapun, rawatan benih dengan larutan prolin pada kepekatan 20 mM didapati memudaratkan vigor benih di mana GP, GRI dan SVI yang lebih rendah dan masa percambahan minimum (MGT) yang lebih tinggi diperhatikan. Kesimpulannya, kajian ini menunjukkan bahawa prolin berpotensi untuk dijadikan agen rawatan benih untuk meningkatkan vigor benih padi.

Mechanisms of ammonia-like off-flavors formation in dried shrimp: Contribution of spoilage microbiota and their metabolism.

Dried shrimp is susceptible to ammonia-like off-flavors (ALOF) during storage, yet the formation mechanisms are still not fully clear. This study analysed the contribution of different parts of dried shrimp to ALOF and characterised the formation mechanisms mainly from microbiological spoilage and amino acid metabolism points. Results showed that head viscera were the main contributors to ALOF, and visceral bacteria were the primary source of microorganisms in stored dried shrimp. The sensory scores of groups without head viscera kept at 0-1 during the storage, indicating no smellable ammonia odour. Analysis of off-flavor indicators showed that visceral bacteria promoted protein degradation and amino acid metabolism. Both amino acid deamination and decarboxylation activities of spoilage microbiota contributed to ALOF formation; however, deamination activities of visceral microbiota were more prominent, particularly for bitter amino acids metabolism. These results provide guidelines for controlling ALOF generation in dried shrimp products during storage.

Effects of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles on Chick Embryo: Immunomodulatory, Hepatic and Biochemical Alterations.

BACKGROUND: The utilization of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) has significantly increased across various industries. OBJECTIVES: This study rigorously explored the impact of TiO2 NPs exposure on chicken embryos, focusing particularly on alterations in the immune system, liver functionality and key biochemical markers. METHODS: The study involved three groups of 30 eggs each, subjected to increasing doses of TiO2 NPs: Group C (control), Group T1 (150 µg/mL) and Group T2 (300 µg/mL). After 48 h of incubation, the eggs in Groups T1 and T2 each received an injection of 0.3 mL of the TiO2 NPs solution. In contrast, the eggs in the control group (Group C) were injected with 0.3 mL of saline solution. Histopathological changes were analysed using haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, whereas amniotic fluid's biochemical properties were examined photometrically. The study also assessed the expression of immune genes (AvBD9, IL6 and IL8L2) through quantitative PCR. The evaluations included growth metrics, amniotic fluid biochemistry and histological analysis of the liver, caecal tonsil and bursa of Fabricius. RESULTS: The results revealed subcutaneous haemorrhage, significant reductions in total body weight and marked changes in biochemical markers, including urea, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), in the amniotic fluid of the groups treated with TiO2 NPs, compared to the control. Histological examinations indicated noticeable alterations in the liver, caecal tonsil and bursa of Fabricius following TiO2 NP exposure. These alterations were characterized by disruptions in cellular structures and variations in lymphocyte counts. Furthermore, a notable decrease in the expression of immunity genes, namely, AvBD9, IL8L2 and IL6, was observed in the TiO2 NP-treated groups compared to the control. CONCLUSION: The findings underscore the need for risk assessments of TiO2 NPs exposure due to its impact on development and immunity. Future research should explore its impact on neurodevelopment and degeneration.

Featuring long-loop tournaments: breeding and training profiles and blood changes in criollo horses before and after exercise.

Long-loop rodeo is a major competition for Criollo horses. We aimed to feature long-loop tournaments and to assess the profiles of competing horses. The animals (n = 49) were registered, and their body mass/scores, information about breeding, feeding, and training management, loaded weight, and tournament track (n = 11) were collected; speeds reached were estimated. Heart and respiratory rates of horses (n = 27) were collected before the tournament, on the final day of the event, and 18-24 h after the end of the tournament. Blood samples were collected from the animals at the same time. Blood count (n = 19) and biochemical profile (n = 28) were conducted based on total proteins, albumin, globulin, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, urea, creatinine, glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol. Data were assessed using analysis of variance in association with Tukey's test (P ≤0.05) and Spearman's correlation (P ≤0.05). Most horses were bred in a semi-stable system, fed roughage and concentrate, and subjected to non-standardized training. The tournament comprised a high-intensity and short-duration exercise with a mean speed of 6.44 m/s, during which the horses carried 25.59% of their body weight on their backs. Clinical evaluations and hematological and biochemical assessments in this study showed physiological changes caused by exercise.

O rodeio de laço comprido é uma das principais competições em que o cavalo Crioulo participa. O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a competição e o perfil dos equinos competidores. Foram cadastrados os animais (n=49) com a mensuração de massa e escore corporal e coletadas as informações sobre criação, alimentação e treinamento, peso do cavaleiro e da sela, dados da pista (n=11) e velocidade estimada dos animais. Nos tempos: 24 horas pré-prova, após a última corrida do último dia de prova e entre 18 a 24 horas após o final da prova, foram aferidas as frequências cardíaca e respiratória dos equinos (n=27) e a temperatura ambiente, foram coletadas amostras sanguíneas dos animais nos mesmos tempos para realização de hemograma (n=19) e bioquímicos (n=28) abrangendo proteínas totais, albumina, globulina, fósforo, sódio, potássio, ureia, creatinina, glicose, triglicerídeos e colesterol. Os dados foram avaliados por análise de variância associada ao teste de Tukey (P ≤0,05) e submetidos à correlação de Spearman (P ≤0,05). Os equinos eram, majoritariamente, criados em sistema de semi-estabulação, alimentados com volumoso e concentrado e com treinamento não padronizado. A prova mostrou-se um exercício de alta intensidade e curta duração, em pistas de areia, com velocidade média de 6,44 m/s e os equinos carregaram 25,59% do seu peso corporal. As avaliações clínicas, hematológicas e bioquímicas demonstraram alterações fisiológicas causadas pelo exercício, indicando aptidão.

Assessing muscle function and oxidative profile in criollo horses participating in long loop rodeo before and after exercise.

Criollo breed is quite popular in Brazil, mainly in the Southern Region, and the long loop rodeo is one of the main sports modality adapted to this breed. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in the muscle and oxidative functions caused by exercises practiced in this sports modality. Data such as exercising frequency, covered distance, mean duration time and number of runs, and blood samples at the following times: before the tournament, on the final day of the event, and 18-24 h after the end of the tournament were collected. Were assessed lactate and the enzymes aspartate aminotransferase and creatine kinase (for the evaluation of the muscle function) and species reactive to oxygen, species reactive to thiobarbituric acid, catalase, superoxide dismutase and uric acid (for oxidative stress). Data were assessed through variance analysis associated with Tukey test (P ≤ 0.05), as well as through Spearman's correlation (P ≤ 0.05). Significant creatine kinase and lactate increase in T1 associated with the maintenance of oxidative indicator levels in T1 and T18 reflected the significant muscle effort and the slight mobilization of oxidative parameters, which were compensated by the antioxidant defenses, since the assessed animals recovered after T18. There was no damage at cell level and the horses showed good muscle and antioxidant condition for exercising.

A raça Crioula é bastante difundida no Brasil, principalmente na região Sul, e o rodeio de laço comprido é uma das principais modalidades esportivas desta raça. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as alterações da função muscular e oxidativas provocadas pelo exercício praticado neste tipo de prova. Para isso, foram coletados dados como frequência de treinamento, distância percorrida, tempo médio de duração e número de corridas e amostras de sangue nos tempos: 24 horas anteriores ao início da prova, após a última corrida do último dia de prova e 18 a 24 horas após o final da prova, em provas com duração de dois dias. Foram avaliadas as enzimas aspartato aminotransferase e creatinoquinase, lactato e o perfil oxidativo através de espécies reativas ao oxigênio, espécies reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico, catalase, superóxido dismutase e ácido úrico. Os dados foram estudados através de uma análise de variância associada ao teste de Tukey, considerando-se significativo para P ≤ 0,05, além de uma correlação de Spearman, considerando-se significativo P ≤ 0,05. As elevações significativas de CK e lactato em T1 associadas à manutenção dos níveis dos indicadores oxidativos em T1 e T18 refletiram um significativo esforço muscular e a discreta mobilização de parâmetros oxidativos que foi compensada pelas defesas antioxidantes, visto que os animais apresentaram-se recuperados após T18. Não houve danos a nível celular e os equinos mostraram uma condição muscular e antioxidante apta ao exercício.

High-temperature stress in strawberry: understanding physiological, biochemical and molecular responses.

MAIN CONCLUSION: Heat stress reduces strawberry growth and fruit quality by impairing photosynthesis, disrupting hormone regulation, and altering mineral nutrition. Multi-omics studies show extensive transcriptional, post-transcriptional, proteomic and metabolomic under high temperatures. Garden strawberry is a globally cultivated, economically important fruit crop highly susceptible to episodic heat waves and chronically rising temperatures associated with climate change. Heat stress negatively affects the growth, development, and quality of strawberries. Elevated temperatures affect photosynthesis, respiration, water balance, hormone signaling, and carbohydrate metabolism in strawberries. Heat stress reduces the size and number of leaves, the number of crowns, the differentiation of flower buds, and the viability of pollen and fruit set, ultimately leading to a lower yield. On a physiological level, heat stress reduces membrane stability, increases the production of reactive oxygen species, and reduces the antioxidant capacity of strawberries. Heat-tolerant varieties have better physiological and biochemical adaptation mechanisms compared to heat-sensitive varieties. Breeding heat-tolerant strawberry cultivars involves selection for traits such as increased leaf temperature, membrane thermostability, and chlorophyll content. Multi-omics studies show extensive transcriptional, post-transcriptional, proteomic, metabolomic, and ionomic reprogramming at high temperatures. Integrative-omics approaches combine multiple omics datasets to obtain a systemic understanding of the responses to heat stress in strawberries. This article summarizes the deciphering of strawberry responses to heat stress using physiological, biochemical, and molecular approaches that will enable the development of resilient adaptation strategies that sustain strawberry production under global climate change.

Challenges of Salinity Intrusion and Drought Stress on Olive Tree Cultivation on Mljet Island.

Understanding genotype-specific responses to environmental stressors is vital for developing resilience strategies that ensure sustainable olive cultivation and productivity. In this work, cultivar 'Oblica' and several olive genotypes from the island of Mljet (Croatia) were exposed to short-term (21 days) salinity and drought treatments. In contrast to other olive genotypes, genotype M29 as well as cultivar 'Oblica' managed to maintain growth and chlorophyll a levels under salinity stress to the same level as the control. Drought, however, significantly reduced the growth parameters in all olive trees. Cultivar 'Oblica' accumulated the greatest amount of Na+ ions in the leaves compared to olive genotypes from the island of Mljet, demonstrating superior resistance by translocating Na+ to leaf vacuoles. The observed reduction in K+ content in the roots of olive trees under all treatments suggests a generalized stress response. On the other hand, effective Ca2+ uptake has been identified as a crucial energy-saving strategy that olive trees use to cope with brief periods of salinity and drought. The proline content and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and guaiacol peroxidase (GPOX) varied among the olive trees, highlighting the importance of antioxidative capacities and stress adaptation mechanisms. According to the obtained results, stress-resistant olive genotypes like 'Oblica' and M29 show potential for breeding resilient varieties.

Comparative analysis of cultivated and wild olive genotypes to salinity and drought stress.

The Mediterranean region's harsh conditions, characterized by low rainfall, high solar radiation, and elevated temperatures, pose challenges for vegetation, particularly in the face of climate change. Cultivated olive (Olea europaea subsp. europaea var. europaea) holds historical and economic significance as one of the oldest crops in the Mediterranean. Due to their high germplasm diversity and greater flowering abundance compared to the offspring of cultivated olives, wild olives (Olea europaea subsp. europaea var. sylvestris) could be utilized for selecting new olive cultivars capable of adapting to a changing climate. This research aimed to compare the effects of salt and drought stress on wild and cultivated genotypes by analyzing morphological, physiological, and biochemical parameters. Results showed that shoot length, shoot dry mass, and leaf area are key drought stress indicators in wild olive trees. The results indicated the olive trees more susceptible to salinity stress had lower Na+ and Cl- concentrations in their leaves and took longer to stabilize salt ion levels. Decreased K+ content in roots across all treatments indicated a general stress response. The uptake of Ca2+ appears to be the most energy-efficient response of olive trees to short-term salinity and drought. In contrast to proline and malondialdehyde, trends in superoxide dismutase activity suggest that it is a reliable indicator of salinity and drought stress. Regarding olive adaptability to salinity stress, promising results obtained with two wild olive genotypes merit their further physiological study.

Cinnamon nanoemulsion mitigates acetamiprid-induced hepatic and renal toxicity in rats: biochemical, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular docking analysis.

Acetamiprid (ACDP) is a widely used neonicotinoid insecticide that is popular for its efficacy in controlling fleas in domestic settings and for pets. Our study aims to offer a comprehensive examination of the toxicological impacts of ACDP and the prophylactic effects of cinnamon nanoemulsions (CMNEs) on the pathological, immunohistochemical, and hematological analyses induced by taking ACDP twice a week for 28 days. Forty healthy rats were divided into four groups (n = 10) at random; the first group served as control rats; the second received CMNEs (2 mg/Kg body weight); the third group received acetamiprid (ACDP group; 21.7 mg/Kg body weight), and the fourth group was given both ACDP and CMNEs by oral gavage. Following the study period, tissue and blood samples were extracted and prepared for analysis. According to a GC-MS analysis, CMNEs had several bioactive ingredients that protected the liver from oxidative stress by upregulating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. Our findings demonstrated that whereas ACDP treatment considerably boosted white blood cells (WBCs) and lymphocytes, it significantly lowered body weight gain (BWG), red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), and platelets (PLT). ACDP notably reduced antioxidant enzyme activities: superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) and elevated hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels compared with other groups. ACDP remarkably raised alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate amino transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels.Moreover, the histopathological and immunohistochemistry assays discovered a severe toxic effect on the liver and kidney following ACDP delivery. Furthermore, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) + immunoexpression was enhanced after treatment with CMNEs. All of the parameters above were returned to nearly normal levels by the coadministration of CMNEs. The molecular docking of cinnamaldehyde with COX-2 also confirmed the protective potential of CMNEs against ACDP toxicity. Our findings highlighted that the coadministration of CMNEs along with ACDP diminished its toxicity by cutting down oxidative stress and enhancing antioxidant capacity, demonstrating the effectiveness of CMNEs in lessening ACDP toxicity.

Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Protective Role of Melatonin during Salt Stress by Regulating the Photosynthesis and Ascorbic Acid Metabolism Pathways in Brassica campestris.

Salinity stress is a type of abiotic stress which negatively affects the signaling pathways and cellular compartments of plants. Melatonin (MT) has been found to be a bioactive compound that can mitigate these adverse effects, which makes it necessary to understand the function of MT and its role in salt stress. During this study, plants were treated exogenously with 100 µM of MT for 7 days and subjected to 200 mM of salt stress, and samples were collected after 1 and 7 days for different indicators and transcriptome analysis. The results showed that salt reduced chlorophyll contents and damaged the chloroplast structure, which was confirmed by the downregulation of key genes involved in the photosynthesis pathway after transcriptome analysis and qRT-PCR confirmation. Meanwhile, MT increased the chlorophyll contents, reduced the electrolyte leakage, and protected the chloroplast structure during salt stress by upregulating several photosynthesis pathway genes. MT also decreased the H2O2 level and increased the ascorbic acid contents and APX activity by upregulating genes involved in the ascorbic acid pathway during salt stress, as confirmed by the transcriptome and qRT-PCR analyses. Transcriptome profiling also showed that 321 and 441 DEGs were expressed after 1 and 7 days of treatment, respectively. The KEGG enrichment analysis showed that 76 DEGs were involved in the photosynthesis pathway, while 35 DEGs were involved in the ascorbic acid metabolism pathway, respectively. These results suggest that the exogenous application of MT in plants provides important insight into understanding MT-induced stress-responsive mechanisms and protecting Brassica campestris against salt stress by regulating the photosynthesis and ascorbic acid pathway genes.

The effect of caraway oil-loaded bio-nanoemulsions on the growth and performance of barnyard grass and maize.

A proper formulation is crucial to improve the herbicidal effects of essential oils and their selectivity. In this study, we investigated the physicochemical properties of bio-based nanoemulsions (CNs) containing several concentrations of caraway (Carum carvi) essential oil stabilized with Eco Tween 80, as a surfactant, maintaining 1:1 proportions. Detailed physicochemical characteristics of the CNs revealed that their properties were most desired at 2% of the oil and surfactant, i.e., the smallest droplet size, polydispersity index, and viscosity. The CNs caused biochemical changes in maize and barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus-galli) seedlings, however, to a different extent. Barnyard grass has overall metabolism (measured as a thermal power) decreased by 39-82% when exposed to the CNs. The CNs triggered changes in the content and composition of carbohydrates in the endosperm of both species' seedlings in a dose-response manner. The foliar application of CNs caused significant damage to tissues of young maize and barnyard grass plants. The effective dose of the CN (ED50, causing a 50% damage) was 5% and 17.5% oil in CN for barnyard grass and maize tissues, respectively. Spraying CNs also decreased relative water content in leaves and affected the efficiency of photosynthesis by disturbing the electron transport chain. We found that barnyard grass was significantly more susceptible to the foliar application of CNs than maize, which could be used to selectively control this species in maize crops. However, further studies are needed to verify this hypothesis under field conditions.

Behavioral and Biochemical Assays for Autism Models of Wistar Rats.

Being a "behavioral disorder," autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is difficult to manage because its precise etiology is uncertain. In order to better understand the pathophysiology of autism and explore various therapeutic approaches, animal models are developed. Animal models of autism caused by valproate during pregnancy exhibit strong construct validity and reliability. Hence, this study was done among autism-induced rats with the aim of identifying the behavioral and biochemical assays. Pregnant rats were administered sodium valproate on the 12th day of gestation, while control pregnant rats received normal saline. The rats' offspring that received normal saline during intrauterine life were grouped as control, and the rats' offspring that received valproate were grouped as autism-induced. From postnatal day (PND) 21, behavioral assessments were done by using the Y maze (repetitive behavior) and the T maze (social behavior). The estimation of antioxidant profile (malondialdehyde {MDA}, glutathione {GSH}, catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase {SOD}), proinflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor {TNF} alpha, transforming growth factor {TGF} beta, interleukin {IL} 6, and IL-1 beta), neurotransmitters (gamma-aminobutyric acid {GABA} and serotonin), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampal region was done. Oxidative stress, increased proinflammatory markers, and increased serotonin were recorded in the autism group. Rats with autism had a significant decrease in GABA and BDNF levels. These biochemical alterations can be correlated with clinical features of autism to diagnose and manage the disorder at the earliest.

Micellar solution of [223Ra]RaCl2: Reaching renal excretion, potent efficacy in osteoblastic osteosarcoma in PDX model, biochemistry alterations and pharmacokinetics.

Despite the successful use of the radiopharmaceutical radium-223 dichloride ([223Ra]RaCl2) for targeted alpha therapy of castration-resistant prostate cancer patients with bone metastases, some short-term side effects, such as diarrhea and vomiting, have been documented, causing patient discomfort. Hence, we prepared a nanosized micellar solution of [223Ra]RaCl2 and evaluated its biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and induced biochemical changes in healthy mice up to 96 h after intraperitoneal administration as an alternative to overcome the previous limitations. In addition, we evaluated the bone specificity of micellar [223Ra]RaCl2 in patient-derived xenografts in the osteosarcoma model. The biodistribution studies revealed the high bone-targeting properties of the micellar [223Ra]RaCl2. Interestingly, the liver uptake remained significantly low (%ID/g = 0.1-0.02) from 24 to 96 h after administration. In addition, the micellar [223Ra]RaCl2 exhibited a significantly higher uptake in left (%ID/g = 0.85-0.23) and right (%ID/g = 0.76-0.24) kidneys than in small (%ID/g = 0.43-0.06) and large intestines (%ID/g = 0.24-0.09) over time, suggesting its excretion pathway is primarily through the kidneys into the urine, in contrast to the non-micellar [223Ra]RaCl2. The micellar [223Ra]RaCl2 also had low distribution volume (0.055 ± 0.003 L) and longer elimination half-life (28 ± 12 days). This nanosystem was unable to change the enzymatic activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma GT, glucose, and liquiform lipase in the treated mice. Finally, microscopic examination of the animals' osteosarcoma tumors treated with micellar [223Ra]RaCl2 indicated regression of the tumor, with large areas of necrosis. In contrast, in the control group, we observed tumor cellularity and cell anaplasia, mitotic figures and formation of neoplastic extracellular bone matrix, which are typical features of osteosarcoma. Therefore, our findings demonstrated the efficiency and safety of nanosized micellar formulations to minimize the gastrointestinal excretion pathway of the clinical radiopharmaceutical [223Ra]RaCl2, in addition to promoting regression of the osteosarcoma. Further studies must be performed to assess dose-response outcomes and organ/tissue dosimetry for clinical translation.

CHANGES IN THE SENSORIMOTOR CORTEX OF THE RAT BRAIN UNDER THE MODELING OF HEMORRHAGIC STROKE.

OBJECTIVE: The aim: To assess the structural and metabolic changes in the sensorimotor cortex of the rat brain under conditions of hemorrhagic stroke. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and methods: The experiment was carried out on rats of the control and experimental groups with a model of hemorrhagic stroke. We used histological, electron microscopic, biochemical methods and biological markers. RESULTS: Results: In the sensorimotor cortex of the ipsilateral cerebral hemisphere of rats under conditions of hemorrhagic stroke, cerebral edema and progression of neurodegenerative changes were observed; an increase in the size of mitochondria, which is caused by edema of their matrix; activation of lipid peroxidation processes and a decrease in the activity of enzymes of the antioxidant system, a decrease in the level of apoptosis markers and inhibition of ERK1/2 expression. The study of DNA fragmentation in the cerebral cortex revealed a significant number of manifestations of necrosis and an insignificant number of cells in a state of apoptosis. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: after modelling a hemorrhagic stroke in the right hemisphere of the brain, perivascular and pericellular edema of the energy apparatus, cell death by necrosis and apoptosis, and activation of lipid peroxidation processes were established as well as a decrease in the activity of enzymes of the antioxidant system.

Exploring the impact of various cooking techniques on the physicochemical and quality characteristics of camel meat product.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of four different cooking techniques viz: boiling, grilling, microwave, and frying; on the physicochemical characteristics of camel meat. METHODS: Protein composition and their degradation as well as biochemical and textural changes of camel meat as influenced by cooking methods were investigated. RESULTS: The highest cooking loss (52.61%) was reported in microwaved samples while grilled samples showed the lowest cooking loss (44.98%). The microwaved samples showed the highest levels of lipid oxidation as measured by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, while boiled samples showed the lowest levels (4.5 mg/kg). Protein solubility, total collagen, and soluble collagen content were highest in boiled samples. Boiled camel meat had lower hardness values compared to the other treated samples. Consequently, boiling was the more suitable cooking technique for producing camel meat with a reduced hardness value and lower lipid oxidation level. CONCLUSION: The camel meat industry and camel meat consumer can benefit from this research by improving their commercial viability and making consumers aware about the effects of cooking procedures on the quality of camel meat. The results of this study will be of significance to researchers and readers who are working on the processing and quality of camel meat.

Influence of the Dose and Frequency of Administration of Tramadol on Analgesia, Hematological, Biochemical Parameters, and Oxidative Status of Cats Undergoing Ovariohysterectomy.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the repeated administration of tramadol subcutaneously on postoperative analgesia, liver, kidneys, and oxidative status in the postoperative period of cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Thirty-seven cats were randomly assigned to 5 groups, according to the postoperative analgesic treatment: NaCl 0.9%, GC; tramadol at 2 mg/kg, T2B (q12h) and T2T (q8h); or 4 mg/kg, T4B (q12h) and T4T (q8h). Oxidative status was assessed at baseline, 12 hours and 24 hours after the final administration of tramadol by the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), myeloperoxidase (MPO), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and lipoperoxidation (MDA). Total blood count, serum biochemistry and urinalysis were compared between baseline and 12 hours posttramadol. Postoperative pain was evaluated by applying the Glasgow Feline Composite Measure Pain Scale at baseline, 3 (T3), 6 (T6), 8 (T8), 12 (T12), 24 (T24) e 36 (T36) hours after extubation. No side effects were observed. Tramadol increased SOD activity while CAT varied among groups in all time points but not over time. MDA levels increased from baseline to 12 hours in all groups but T4T. MPO activity decreased from baseline to 24 hours in some groups, including GC. Creatinine and phosphatase alkaline decreased in T2T, T4B, and T4T at 12 hours. Higher pain scores were observed from T3 to T8, except for GC. Rescue analgesia was administered only at T3. No difference in pain scores was observed from T8 onwards. Based on the findings, it is suggested that tramadol at 2 mg/kg every 8 hours is recommended for postoperative analgesia of cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

Induction of Systemic Resistance in Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. to Control Root Rot and Wilt Diseases Using Biotic and Abiotic Inducers.

The possibility of inducing systemic resistance in roselle against root rot and wilt diseases was investigated using biotic and abiotic inducers. The biotic inducers included three biocontrol agents (i.e., Bacillus subtilis, Gliocladium catenulatum, and Trichoderma asperellum) and two biofertilizers (i.e., microbein and mycorrhizeen), while the abiotic inducers included three chemical materials (i.e., ascorbic acid, potassium silicate, and salicylic acid). In addition, preliminary in vitro studies were conducted to evaluate the inhibitory activity of the tested inducers on the growth of pathogenic fungi. The results show that G. catenulatum was the most efficient biocontrol agent. It reduced the linear growth of Fusarium solani, F. oxysporum, and Macrophomina phaseolina by 76.1, 73.4, and 73.2%, respectively, followed by B. subtilis by 71.4, 69, and 68.3%, respectively. Similarly, potassium silicate was the most effective chemical inducer followed by salicylic acid, each at 2000 ppm. They reduced the linear growth of F. solani by 62.3 and 55.7%; M. phaseolina by 60.7 and 53.1%; and F. oxysporum by 60.3 and 53%, respectively. In the greenhouse, all inducers applied as a seed treatment and/or foliar spray strongly limited the development of root rot and wilt diseases. In this regard, G. catenulatum, at 1 × 109 CFU mL-1, achieved the highest values of disease control, followed by B. subtilis; while T. asperellum, at 1 × 105 CFU mL-1, recorded the lowest values. In addition, the plants treated with potassium silicate followed by salicylic acid, each at 4 g/L, recorded the highest disease control compared to ascorbic acid at 1 g/L, which had the lowest values. The mixture of mycorrhizeen + microbein (at 10 g/kg seeds) was the most effective compared to either of them alone. All treatments, applied alone or in combination in the field, significantly reduced the incidence of diseases. The most effective treatments were a mixture of G. catenulatum (Gc) + Bacillus subtilis (Bs) + Trichoderma asperellum (Ta); a mixture of ascorbic acid (AA) + potassium silicate (PS) + and salicylic (SA); G. catenulatum; potassium silicate; and a mixture of mycorrhizeen + microbein. Rhizolix T had the highest disease-reducing efficacy. In response to the treatments, significant improvements in growth and yield, changes in biochemicals, and increased activities of defense enzymes were achieved. This research points to the activity of some biotic and abiotic inducers that can play a vital role in managing the root rot and wilt of roselle through the induction of systemic plant resistance.

THE PECULIARITIES OF BIOCHEMICAL AND MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN THE HEART OF THE CASTRATED RATS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ADRENALIN DAMAGE OF HEART.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the state of oxidation processes and morphological changes in the heart of castrated rats during the development of epinephrine heart damage (EHD). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and methods. The study was performed on 120 white male Wistar rats. The animals were divided into four series: 1 - control, 2 - castration. For EHD, rats were injected once intraperitoneally with a 0.18% solution of adrenaline hydrotartrate at the rate of 0.5 mg/kg of weight. Castration was performed under anesthesia. The concentration of diene and triene conjugates (DC, TC), Schiff's bases (SB), TBA-active products (TBA-ap), oxidatively modi"ed proteins (OMP), activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were determined in the heart. A morphological study of preparations stained with Azantrichrome was carried out. All studies were performed in control, 1, 3, 7, 14 and 28 days after adrenaline injection. RESULTS: Results: In the I series DC and TC increased after 1 day of EHD, fell to control values after 3 days, and then had wave-like character (highest - after 14 days). SB decreased (minimal after 7 days), TBA-ap increase (maximal after 14 days). OMP370 increased after 1 and 3 days, after 7 days they did not differ from the control, after 14 days they were higher than in control, and after 28 days they decreased to the control values. OMP430 and OMP530were greater than the control indicators in all terms, except the last; the maximum was noted after 14 days. The activity of antioxidant enzymes was lower than the control indicators at all times of the study. Castration caused an increase of lipid peroxidation. After 7 days, DC and TC, were lower and SB - higher, than in the I series. Castration caused a decrease in OMP. In EHD all values of OMP, compared to the castrated control rats, were higher at all studed times Castration leads to increase of SOD, and decrase of CAT. All indicators of SOD and CAT exceeded the indicators of animals of the I series at all times of the study. Biochemical changes are consistent with morphological changes. After injection of epinephrine, severe vascular disorders, adventitia edema, perivasal edema, endothelial cell damage, dilatation of hemicapillaries, full blood vessels, stasis, hemorrhages in the surrounding tissues, and sclerosing of the walls of arteries and venules were observed. Cardiomyocytes were swollen, shortening, necrosis was observed, myocytolysis was noted. Edema of the stroma was noted. In the stroma, around the vessels, located cells of connective tissue elements were observed. Indicate more damage to the myocardium in the process of development of EHD in animals of the I series. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Castration of rats causes an increase of lipid peroxidation products and CAT activity in the heart, but a decrease in the content of OMP. Adrenaline injection causes activation of lipid peroxidation and an increase in the content of OMP. During the development of EHD, the activity of antioxidants is significantly higher in II group. Biochemical changes are consistent with morphological, and indicate more damage to the myocardium in the development of EHD in animals of the I series.

Exogenous IBA stimulated adventitious root formation of Zanthoxylum beecheyanum K. Koch stem cutting: Histo-physiological and phytohormonal investigation.

Poor rooting performance of Chinese pepper (Zanthoxylum beecheyanum K. Koch) shrub is a restriction for its commercial production. This investigation was carried out to assess the effectiveness of the exogenous application of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) on adventitious root (AR) formation and some morpho-physiological, biochemical, and histological alterations associated with rhizogenesis events. IBA, at 1500 or 2000 mg kg-1, gave comparable effects for improving the performance of rooting architecture compared to the control treatment. The AR primordia of Z. beecheyanum originated from two distinct developmental pathways: (i) direct genesis from cells in the cambial zone and nearby tissues, and (ii) indirect genesis from cells in callus tissues. Rooting process involved four phases: (i) induction at 0-10 days after planting (DAP), (ii) initiation at 10-15 DAP, (iii) formation of the root primordia (Rp) at 15-20 DAP, and (iv) root extension at 20-30 DAP. Cuttings' inductive phase correlated temporarily with intensive cell divisions, high levels of endogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellins (GA3). However, IBA application led to a pronounced increase in soluble sugars and phenolic content. The initiation phase was accompanied by a histological appearance of meristemoids. This phase was also stimulated by the subsequent generation of low IAA and high GA3 contents. In the development of Rp and root extension phases, prominent Rp formation in the cambium and complete differentiation with vascular tissues continued with that of the stem cuttings. In essence, the current study provides insights into the morphological, histo-physiological, and phytohormonal alterations in stem cuttings.