Dietary supplementation with integral chia and flax flours ameliorates systemic inflammation.

INTRODUCTION: Chia and flax seeds are rich in alphalinolenic acid (ALA), which is bioconverted into the active derivatives eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) having multiple beneficial effects. However, there is limited knowledge about the antiinflammatory effects of chia and flax integral flours diets rich in ALA. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to evaluate the antiinflammatory effect of dietary supplementation with integral chia and flax flours in a murine model of LPSinduced systemic inflammation. METHODS: Balb/c mice were distributed into three groups: diet A (control), diet B (supplemented with integral chia flour), and diet C (supplemented with integral flax flour). Nutritional, hematological, and biochemical determinations were performed. ALA, EPA, and DHA were assessed by GC-MS in the liver, brain, cardiac and skeletal muscles. NF-kB immunoassays were performed in kidney, liver, and peritoneal macrophages, respectively. The phagocytic capacity was determined in peritoneal macrophages and the expression of the pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines was assessed by RT-qPCR in the kidney, liver, and spleen. RESULTS: Diets B and C exhibited optimal nutritional adequacy and caused increased levels of ALA, EPA, and DHA in critical tissues compared to the control. The phagocytic capacity of murine peritoneal macrophages (p< 0.01) and IL-10 transcription increased, whereas the expression of NF-κB, IL-1Β, IL-6, and TNF-α decreased in animals fed both experimental diets. CONCLUSIONS: This work contributes to the current knowledge of the anti-inflammatory effects of chia and flax integral flours rich in ALA and reinforces the health advantages of their consumption.

Introducción: Las semillas de chía y lino son ricas en ácido alfa-linolénico (ALA), sus derivados activos eicosapentaenoico (EPA) y docosahexaenoico (DHA) ejercen probados efectos beneficiosos. Existe un conocimiento limitado sobre los efectos protectores de ambas semillas bajo la forma de harinas integrales, siendo de particular interés el efecto antiinflamatorio. OBJETIVO: El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto antiinflamatorio de la suplementación dietaria con harinas integrales de semillas de chía y lino en un modelo murino de inflamación sistémica inducido por LPS. Métodos: Ratones de la cepa Balb/c fueron distribuidos en tres grupos: dieta A (control), dieta B (suplementada con harina integral de chía) y dieta C (suplementada con harina integral de lino). Se efecturaron determinaciones nutricionales, hematológicas y bioquímicas. El contenido de ALA, EPA y DHA en hígado, cerebro, corazón y músculo esquelético se determinó por cromatografía GC-MS. Se realizó la inmunodetección de NF-kB en macrófagos peritoneales, riñón e hígado. Se determinó la capacidad fagocítica de macrófagos peritoneales y se evaluó la expresión de citoquinas pro y antiinflamatorias por RT-qPCR en riñón, hígado y bazo. RESULTADOS: Las dietas B y C mostraron una adecuación nutricional óptima y generaron niveles elevados de ALA, EPA y DHA en tejidos críticos. La capacidad fagocítica de los macrófagos peritoneales (p< 0.01) y la transcripción de IL-10 aumentó, mientras que la expresión de NF-κB, IL-1Β, IL-6 y TNF-α disminuyó en animales de los grupos B y C. CONCLUSIONES: Este trabajo contribuye al conocimiento actual de los efectos antiinflamatorios de ambas harinas integrales y refuerza los beneficios de su consumo.

Changes in flax yield and quality in response to various mineral nutrition / Alterações no rendimento e qualidade do linho em resposta a vários nutrientes minerais

The researchers of Russian State Agrarian University, Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy in 2013-2016 conducted a long-term stationary experiment to study chemical and toxicological properties of fiber flax, Voskhod variety, growing on sod-podzolic soil in the soil and climate of the Moscow region. Test plots were selected with following crop rotation options: without fertilizers, without liming; without fertilizers, with liming; N100P150K120 (kg a.i./ha), without liming; N100P150K120, with liming; N100P150K120 + manure 20 t/ha, without liming; N100P150K120 + manure 20 t/ha, with liming. The agro-climatic conditions of the growing seasons during the research years did not have a negative impact on the growth and development of fiber flax, the hydro-thermal index was 1.1 in 2013, -1.05 in 2014, 1.5 in 2015, and 1.5 in 2016. The maintained crop rotation and the introduction of a full range of mineral and organic fertilizers has been found to contribute to high yields of flax in terms of fiber (18.5-18.9 hwt/ha) and seeds (7.9-8.3 hwt/ha). The seeds contain 16.9-19.5% protein and 33.5-39.4% lipids. The yield of flaxseed oil from seeds ranged from 19.5-35.7% on average for different variants of the experiment. The peroxide number index was 2.5-1.5 mg-eq O2/kg, the acid number index was 1.1-1.9 mg KOH/g, which corresponds to obtaining high-quality linseed oil in compliance with quality standards for all variants of the experiment.

Os pesquisadores da Universidade Agrária Estatal Russa, Academia Agrícola Timiryazev de Moscou, de 2013 a 2016, realizaram um experimento estacionário de longo prazo para estudar as propriedades químicas e toxicológicas da fibra de linho, variedade Voskhod, crescendo em solo sod-podzólico e no clima da região de Moscou. As parcelas-teste foram selecionadas com as seguintes opções de rotação de culturas: sem fertilizantes e sem calagem; sem fertilizantes e com calagem; N100P150K120 (kg ia/ha), sem calagem; N100P150K120 e com calagem; N100P150K120 + esterco 20 t/ha e sem calagem; N100P150K120 + esterco 20 t/há e com calagem. As condições agroclimáticas das épocas de cultivo durante os anos de pesquisa não tiveram impacto negativo no crescimento e desenvolvimento do linho têxtil, o índice hidrotérmico foi de 1,1 em 2013, -1,05 em 2014, 1,5 em 2015 e 1,5 em 2016. Verificou-se que a manutenção da rotação de culturas e a introdução de uma gama completa de fertilizantes minerais e orgânicos contribuem para altos rendimentos de linho em termos de fibra (18,5-18,9 hwt/ha) e sementes (7,9-8,3 hwt/ha). As sementes contêm 16,9-19,5% de proteína e 33,5-39,4% de lipídios. O rendimento de óleo de linhaça das sementes variou de 19,5 a 35,7% em média para diferentes variantes do experimento. O índice de peróxido foi de 2,5-1,5 mg-eq O2/kg, o índice de acidez foi de 1,1-1,9 mg KOH/g, o que corresponde à obtenção de óleo de linhaça de alta qualidade em conformidade com os padrões de qualidade para todas as variantes do experimento.

The Genetic Dissection of Nitrogen Use-Related Traits in Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) at the Seedling Stage through the Integration of Multi-Locus GWAS, RNA-seq and Genomic Selection.

Nitrogen (N), the most important macro-nutrient for plant growth and development, is a key factor that determines crop yield. Yet its excessive applications pollute the environment and are expensive. Hence, studying nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in crops is fundamental for sustainable agriculture. Here, an association panel consisting of 123 flax accessions was evaluated for 21 NUE-related traits at the seedling stage under optimum N (N+) and N deficiency (N-) treatments to dissect the genetic architecture of NUE-related traits using a multi-omics approach integrating genome-wide association studies (GWAS), transcriptome analysis and genomic selection (GS). Root traits exhibited significant and positive correlations with NUE under N- conditions (r = 0.33 to 0.43, p < 0.05). A total of 359 QTLs were identified, accounting for 0.11% to 23.1% of the phenotypic variation in NUE-related traits. Transcriptomic analysis identified 1034 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under contrasting N conditions. DEGs involved in N metabolism, root development, amino acid transport and catabolism and others, were found near the QTLs. GS models to predict NUE stress tolerance index (NUE_STI) trait were tested using a random genome-wide SNP dataset and a GWAS-derived QTLs dataset. The latter produced superior prediction accuracy (r = 0.62 to 0.79) compared to the genome-wide SNP marker dataset (r = 0.11) for NUE_STI. Our results provide insights into the QTL architecture of NUE-related traits, identify candidate genes for further studies, and propose genomic breeding tools to achieve superior NUE in flax under low N input.

Flaxseed Oil (Linum usitatissimum) Prevents Cognitive and Motor Damage in Rats with Hyperammonemia.

Hyperammonemia is characterized by the excessive accumulation of ammonia in the body as a result of the loss of liver detoxification, leading to the development of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). These metabolic alterations carry cognitive and motor deficits and cause neuronal damage, with no effective treatment at present. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of two subacute oral administrations of flaxseed oil (0.26 and 0.52 mL/kg) on short- and long-term memory, visuospatial memory, locomotor activity, motor coordination, and the neuronal morphology of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) via tests on Wistar rats with hyperammonemia. The goal was to identify its role in the regulation of cerebral edema, without liver damage causing cerebral failure. In contrast with an ammonium-rich diet, flaxseed oil and normal foods did not cause cognitive impairment or motor alterations, as evidenced in the short-term and visuospatial memory tests. Furthermore, the flaxseed oil treatment maintained a regular neuronal morphology of the prefrontal cortex, which represents a neuroprotective effect. We conclude that the oral administration of flaxseed oil prevents cognitive and motor impairments as well as neuronal alterations in rats with hyperammonemia, which supports the potential use of this oil to ameliorate the changes that occur in hepatic encephalopathy.

Quantitative assessment of soil condition, basic environmental factors and productivity of Linum usitatissimum in the steppe zone of Kazakhstan using the remote sensing method.

The influence of environmental factors, such as lack of water and uneven rainfall, depletion of nutrients in the soil and reduced soil fertility, planting patterns and plant density, uneven growth stages, are the main limiting factors that hinder the growth of agricultural production in arid regions. The aim of the study was to assess the potential of Sentinel-2 to quantify soil conditions, which can improve the understanding of spatiotemporal dynamics in organic agriculture in the steppe zone of Kazakhstan and improve productivity management of Linum usitatissimum. In the course of the research, the influence of individual factors of the general environmental impact, such as the influence of humidity, meteorological conditions, the content of individual nutrient components of the soil on the yield, was studied. The meteorological conditions in this region in 2021 and the data of agrochemical analysis of the soil on which the oilseed crop was grown were evaluated. Sentinel-2 satellite images were used to determine the NDVI and GNDVI indices. A high content of nitrate nitrogen (12.3-16.2 mg/kg), a very low level of available phosphorus (3-10 mg/kg), and a high content of potassium (289-420 mg/kg) were found in the soil. A low content of humus (2.68-3.31%) and sulfur (1.1-4.9 mg/kg) was found. A study of the NDVI growth index showed that the highest value was reached by the period of July 20, 2021. After this period, a decrease in the vegetation index was observed. In conditions of severe drought, this change occurred earlier than under favorable conditions, and correlated with low flax yield (1.6-6.9 c/ha). This study demonstrates the potential of Sentinel-2 for quantifying soil conditions, which not only improves our understanding of spatial-temporal dynamics and environmental components in organic agriculture in the steppe zone of Kazakhstan, but also improves the management of Linum usitatissimum productivity.

Changes in flax yield and quality in response to various mineral nutrition.

The researchers of Russian State Agrarian University, Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy in 2013-2016 conducted a long-term stationary experiment to study chemical and toxicological properties of fiber flax, Voskhod variety, growing on sod-podzolic soil in the soil and climate of the Moscow region. Test plots were selected with following crop rotation options: without fertilizers, without liming; without fertilizers, with liming; N100P150K120 (kg a.i./ha), without liming; N100P150K120, with liming; N100P150K120 + manure 20 t/ha, without liming; N100P150K120 + manure 20 t/ha, with liming. The agro-climatic conditions of the growing seasons during the research years did not have a negative impact on the growth and development of fiber flax, the hydro-thermal index was 1.1 in 2013, -1.05 in 2014, 1.5 in 2015, and 1.5 in 2016. The maintained crop rotation and the introduction of a full range of mineral and organic fertilizers has been found to contribute to high yields of flax in terms of fiber (18.5-18.9 hwt/ha) and seeds (7.9-8.3 hwt/ha). The seeds contain 16.9-19.5% protein and 33.5-39.4% lipids. The yield of flaxseed oil from seeds ranged from 19.5-35.7% on average for different variants of the experiment. The peroxide number index was 2.5-1.5 mg-eq O2/kg, the acid number index was 1.1-1.9 mg KOH/g, which corresponds to obtaining high-quality linseed oil in compliance with quality standards for all variants of the experiment.

Caiman's fat enriched with n-3 fatty acids: potential food supplement.

Broad-snouted caiman (Caiman latirostris) products (meat, fat and oil) are currently beginning to be valued as a food of special interest due to its high content of n-3 fatty acids. Thus, the objective of this study was to characterize the fats of caiman fed with diets enriched with flaxseeds (Linus usitatissimun) rich in n-3 fatty acids, lignans and antioxidants. Caimans were fed six days a week with: a control diet (C), and a diet enriched with ground flaxseed = 90% C + 10% flaxseed ground (FS), during 30 (FS30) and 60 (FS60) days. Animals fed the flaxseed-enriched diets increased linolenic acid content and reduced the n-6/n-3 ratio of fats relative to controls, and this improvement increased over time. The proportion of eicosapentaenoic acid also increased, but there was no difference at the time the enriched diets were offered. Caiman fat of the FS30 and FS60, showed a decrease in lipoperoxidation (24% and 40%) and reactive oxygen species (44% and 76%) accompanied by an increase in antioxidant systems. Consumption of a flax-enriched diet by caimans increases the content of essential fatty acids and improves the lipoperoxidative status of fat. This provides an enriched fat with potential for the development products for human consumption.

The pattern of alternative splicing and DNA methylation alteration and their interaction in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) response to repeated drought stresses.

BACKGROUND: Drought stress has significantly hampered agricultural productivity worldwide and can also result in modifications to DNA methylation levels. However, the dynamics of DNA methylation and its association with the changes in gene transcription and alternative splicing (AS) under drought stress are unknown in linseed, which is frequently cultivated in arid and semiarid regions. RESULTS: We analysed AS events and DNA methylation patterns in drought-tolerant (Z141) and drought-sensitive (NY-17) linseed under drought stress (DS) and repeated drought stress (RD) treatments. We found that the number of intron-retention (IR) and alternative 3' splice site (Alt3'SS) events were significantly higher in Z141 and NY-17 under drought stress. We found that the linseed response to the DS treatment was mainly regulated by transcription, while the response to the RD treatment was coregulated by transcription and AS. Whole genome-wide DNA methylation analysis revealed that drought stress caused an increase in the overall methylation level of linseed. Although we did not observe any correlation between differentially methylated genes (DMGs) and differentially spliced genes (DSGs) in this study, we found that the DSGs whose gene body region was hypermethylated in Z141 and hypomethylated in NY-17 were enriched in abiotic stress response Gene Ontology (GO) terms. This finding implies that gene body methylation plays an important role in AS regulation in some specific genes. CONCLUSION: Our study is the first comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the relationship between linseed methylation changes and AS under drought and repeated drought stress. Our study revealed different interaction patterns between differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and DSGs under DS and RD treatments and differences between methylation and AS regulation in drought-tolerant and drought-sensitive linseed varieties. The findings will probably be of interest in the future. Our results provide interesting insights into the association between gene expression, AS, and DNA methylation in linseed under drought stress. Differences in these associations may account for the differences in linseed drought tolerance.

Development of metformin HCl granules using brown flaxseed mucilage as a retardant polymer: effects of polymer and drug ratio

Abstract Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) is the seed of a multipurpose plant of pharmaceutical interest, as its mucilage can be used as a natural matrix to develop extended-release dosage forms and potentially replace synthetic polymers. In this study, a 3² factorial design with two replicates of the central point was applied to optimize the development of extended-release granules of metformin HCl. The total fiber content of the mucilage as well as the friability and dissolution of the formulations were evaluated. The lyophilized mucilage presented a high total fiber content (42.63%), which suggests a high efficiency extraction process. Higher concentrations of the mucilage and metformin HCl yielded less friable granules. In addition, lower concentrations of metformin HCl and higher concentrations of the mucilage resulted in slower drug release during the dissolution assays. The release kinetics for most formulations were better represented by the Hixson-Crowell model, while formulations containing a higher concentration of the mucilage were represented by the Korsmeyer-Peppas model. Nonetheless, five formulations showed a longer release than the reference HPMC formulation. More desirable results were obtained with a higher concentration of the mucilage (13-18%) and a lower concentration of metformin (40%).

Evaluation of methanolic crude extract of Linum usitatissimum for the removal of biofilm in diabetic foot isolates / Avaliação do extrato em bruto metanólico de Linum usitatissimum para remoção de biofilmes em isolados diabéticos de pé

Linum usitatissimum L is a widely used traditionally for multiple ailments. The present research was carried out to explore the antimicrobial, and anti-biofilm activity of crude extract of Linum usitatissimum L (Lu. Cr). Phytochemical and proximate analyses were performed. The bandages of diabetic foot patients were collected from the various hospitals. The bandages were cultured to isolate the bacterial strains present on it. The disc diffusion method was used to identify the antimicrobial potential whereas the minimum inhibitory concentration of the Lu.Cr were also determined. Proximate analysis confirms moisture content 8.33%, ash content 4.33%, crude protein 21.20%, crude fat 49.2% and crude fiber 5.63%. It was revealed that Gram-positive bacteria are most prevalent among all study groups. Lu.Cr possess significant bactericidal potential against S. aureus among all other microbes. Owing to this potential, linseed coated bandages can be used alternatively for the treatment of diabetic foot.

Linum usitatissimum L é amplamente utilizado tradicionalmente para doenças múltiplas. O presente trabalho foi realizado para explorar a atividade antimicrobiana e antibiofilme do extrato bruto de Linum usitatissimum L (Lu.Cr). Foram realizadas análises fitoquímicas e aproximadas. As ataduras de pacientes diabéticos com pé foram recolhidas nos vários hospitais. As bandagens foram cultivadas para isolar as cepas bacterianas presentes nas mesmas. O método de difusão em disco foi utilizado para identificar o potencial antimicrobiano e a concentração inibitória mínima do Lu.Cr também foi determinada. A análise aproximada confirma o teor de umidade 8,33%, teor de cinzas 4,33%, proteína bruta 21,20%, gordura bruta 49,2% e fibra bruta 5,63%. Foi revelado que as bactérias Gram-positivas são mais prevalentes entre todos os grupos de estudo. Lu.Cr possui potencial bactericida significativo contra S. aureus entre todos os outros micróbios. Devido a esse potencial, as ligaduras revestidas com linhaça podem ser utilizadas alternativamente para o tratamento do pé diabético.

Determination of cyanide in whole seeds and brans of linseed (Linum usitatissimum Linn) by molecular spectrophotometry

Abstract The addition of linseed (Linum usitatissimum Linn) in the diet, as a functional food, has increased over the years. However, it possesses cyanogenic glycosides. This study aimed to quantify and compare cyanide concentration in whole seed and bran of brown and golden types to establish a safe limit of intake. Three commercial labels, from brown and golden whole seed types (Ab, Ag, Bb, Bg, Cb and Cg), and six commercial labels of brown and golden bran (1b, 2g, 3g, 4b, 5g, and 6b), were selected, totalizing twelve samples. Total cyanide concentration was quantified by a colorimetric method employing alkaline picrate, after acid hydrolysis. The whole seed cyanide values were between 348.4 and 473.20 µg/g and the bran cyanide values were between 459.53 and 639.35 µg/g. The analyzed bran presented increased cyanide concentrations than the whole seeds with no differences between brown and golden types. Food able to produce cyanide less than 90 µg/kg body weight, daily, is considered secure for consumption. Considering this limit and analyzed samples, it is safe to eat approximately two tablespoons of seeds or one tablespoon of bran. These results point out the importance of cyanide amount daily intake information to be in linseed packaging, to ensure secure consumption

In vitro evaluation of nanocomposites of linseed mucilage and k-carrageenan loaded with Achyrocline satureioides nanoemulsion: a gradual-release candidate of antimicrobials for the treatment of bovine mastitis.

This research paper presents the development and evaluation of pioneering nanocomposites (NCs) based on the combination of k-carrageenan and linseed mucilage. When loaded with macela extract nanoemulsion they present an innovative approach for the sustained release of antimicrobial herbal constituents, specifically tailored for bovine mastitis treatment. The NCs, encompassing various ratios of k-carrageenan and linseed mucilage polymers (8:2, 7:3, and 5:5 w/w) with 1.25 mg of macela extract/g of gel, underwent in vitro assessment, emphasizing viscosity, degradation speed, release of herbal actives from macela nanoemulsion and antimicrobial activity. The NCs exhibited thermoreversible characteristics, transitioning from liquid at 60°C to a gel at 25°C. NCs allowed a gradual release of phenolic compounds, reaching approximately 80% of total phenolics release (w/v) within 72 h. NCs inhibited the growth of MRSA (ATCC 33592) until 8 h of incubation. No toxic effect in vitro of NCs was found on MAC-T cells. Thus, the developed materials are relevant for the treatment of bovine mastitis, especially in the dry period, and the data support future evaluations in vivo.

Evaluation of methanolic crude extract of Linum usitatissimum for the removal of biofilm in diabetic foot isolates / Avaliação do extrato em bruto metanólico de Linum usitatissimum para remoção de biofilmes em isolados diabéticos de pé

Abstract Linum usitatissimum L is a widely used traditionally for multiple ailments. The present research was carried out to explore the antimicrobial, and anti-biofilm activity of crude extract of Linum usitatissimum L (Lu. Cr). Phytochemical and proximate analyses were performed. The bandages of diabetic foot patients were collected from the various hospitals. The bandages were cultured to isolate the bacterial strains present on it. The disc diffusion method was used to identify the antimicrobial potential whereas the minimum inhibitory concentration of the Lu.Cr were also determined. Proximate analysis confirms moisture content 8.33%, ash content 4.33%, crude protein 21.20%, crude fat 49.2% and crude fiber 5.63%. It was revealed that Gram-positive bacteria are most prevalent among all study groups. Lu.Cr possess significant bactericidal potential against S. aureus among all other microbes. Owing to this potential, linseed coated bandages can be used alternatively for the treatment of diabetic foot.

Resumo Linum usitatissimum L é amplamente utilizado tradicionalmente para doenças múltiplas. O presente trabalho foi realizado para explorar a atividade antimicrobiana e antibiofilme do extrato bruto de Linum usitatissimum L (Lu.Cr). Foram realizadas análises fitoquímicas e aproximadas. As ataduras de pacientes diabéticos com pé foram recolhidas nos vários hospitais. As bandagens foram cultivadas para isolar as cepas bacterianas presentes nas mesmas. O método de difusão em disco foi utilizado para identificar o potencial antimicrobiano e a concentração inibitória mínima do Lu.Cr também foi determinada. A análise aproximada confirma o teor de umidade 8,33%, teor de cinzas 4,33%, proteína bruta 21,20%, gordura bruta 49,2% e fibra bruta 5,63%. Foi revelado que as bactérias Gram-positivas são mais prevalentes entre todos os grupos de estudo. Lu.Cr possui potencial bactericida significativo contra S. aureus entre todos os outros micróbios. Devido a esse potencial, as ligaduras revestidas com linhaça podem ser utilizadas alternativamente para o tratamento do pé diabético.

Evaluation of methanolic crude extract of Linum usitatissimum for the removal of biofilm in diabetic foot isolates / Avaliação do extrato em bruto metanólico de Linum usitatissimum para remoção de biofilmes em isolados diabéticos de pé

Linum usitatissimum L is a widely used traditionally for multiple ailments. The present research was carried out to explore the antimicrobial, and anti-biofilm activity of crude extract of Linum usitatissimum L (Lu. Cr). Phytochemical and proximate analyses were performed. The bandages of diabetic foot patients were collected from the various hospitals. The bandages were cultured to isolate the bacterial strains present on it. The disc diffusion method was used to identify the antimicrobial potential whereas the minimum inhibitory concentration of the Lu.Cr were also determined. Proximate analysis confirms moisture content 8.33%, ash content 4.33%, crude protein 21.20%, crude fat 49.2% and crude fiber 5.63%. It was revealed that Gram-positive bacteria are most prevalent among all study groups. Lu.Cr possess significant bactericidal potential against S. aureus among all other microbes. Owing to this potential, linseed coated bandages can be used alternatively for the treatment of diabetic foot.(AU)

Linum usitatissimum L é amplamente utilizado tradicionalmente para doenças múltiplas. O presente trabalho foi realizado para explorar a atividade antimicrobiana e antibiofilme do extrato bruto de Linum usitatissimum L (Lu.Cr). Foram realizadas análises fitoquímicas e aproximadas. As ataduras de pacientes diabéticos com pé foram recolhidas nos vários hospitais. As bandagens foram cultivadas para isolar as cepas bacterianas presentes nas mesmas. O método de difusão em disco foi utilizado para identificar o potencial antimicrobiano e a concentração inibitória mínima do Lu.Cr também foi determinada. A análise aproximada confirma o teor de umidade 8,33%, teor de cinzas 4,33%, proteína bruta 21,20%, gordura bruta 49,2% e fibra bruta 5,63%. Foi revelado que as bactérias Gram-positivas são mais prevalentes entre todos os grupos de estudo. Lu.Cr possui potencial bactericida significativo contra S. aureus entre todos os outros micróbios. Devido a esse potencial, as ligaduras revestidas com linhaça podem ser utilizadas alternativamente para o tratamento do pé diabético.(AU)

The pattern of alternative splicing and DNA methylation alteration and their interaction in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L) response to repeated drought stresses

BACKGROUND: Drought stress has significantly hampered agricultural productivity worldwide and can also result in modifications to DNA methylation levels. However, the dynamics of DNA methylation and its association with the changes in gene transcription and alternative splicing (AS) under drought stress are unknown in linseed, which is frequently cultivated in arid and semiarid regions. RESULTS: We analysed AS events and DNA methylation patterns in drought-tolerant (Z141) and drought-sensitive (NY-17) linseed under drought stress (DS) and repeated drought stress (RD) treatments. We found that the number of intron-retention (IR) and alternative 3' splice site (Alt3'SS) events were significantly higher in Z141 and NY-17 under drought stress. We found that the linseed response to the DS treatment was mainly regulated by transcription, while the response to the RD treatment was coregulated by transcription and AS. Whole genome-wide DNA methylation analysis revealed that drought stress caused an increase in the overall methylation level of linseed. Although we did not observe any correlation between differentially methylated genes (DMGs) and differentially spliced genes (DSGs) in this study, we found that the DSGs whose gene body region was hypermethylated in Z141 and hypomethylated in NY-17 were enriched in abiotic stress response Gene Ontology (GO) terms. This finding implies that gene body methylation plays an important role in AS regulation in some specific genes. CONCLUSION: Our study is the first comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the relationship between linseed methylation changes and AS under drought and repeated drought stress. Our study revealed different interaction patterns between differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and DSGs under DS and RD treatments and differences between methylation and AS regulation in drought-tolerant and drought-sensitive linseed varieties. The findings will probably be of interest in the future. Our results provide interesting insights into the association between gene expression, AS, and DNA methylation in linseed under drought stress. Differences in these associations may account for the differences in linseed drought tolerance.

Superalimentos: fundamentação científica / Superfoods: scientific basis / Superalimentos: base científica

Este trabalho tem por objetivo realizar uma pesquisa visando a fundamentação científica dos superalimentos. Embora não existam diretrizes oficiais para o que constitui um "superalimento", geralmente está denominação se aplica a produtos alimentícios que contêm grandes quantidades de nutrientes específicos (por exemplo, antioxidantes, vitaminas e minerais). Estes bioativos atuam como potenciais agentes de prevenção e complementam os tratamentos de doenças crônicas como síndrome metabólica, diabetes, hipertensão, inflamações, doenças autoimunes entre outras. Como exemplos de superalimentos, encontram-se os brotos, sementes, vegetais, frutas, cúrcuma, chá verde, algas como a espirulina, alho, gengibre, cacau, pólen, geleia real, mel de abelha, coco e açaí. Nesse sentido, outros estudos poderiam ser realizados para investigar como estão sendo compreendidos os superalimentos dentro do campo científico.

This work aims to carry out research aiming at the scientific foundation of superfoods. While there are no official guidelines for what constitutes a "superfood", this designation generally applies to food products that contain large amounts of specific nutrients (eg, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals). These bioactives act as potential preventive agents and complement treatments for chronic diseases such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes, hypertension, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, among others. As examples of superfoods, there are sprouts, seeds, vegetables, fruits, turmeric, green tea, algae such as spirulina, garlic, ginger, cocoa, pollen, royal jelly, bee honey, coconut and açaí. In this sense, other studies could be carried out to investigate how superfoods are being understood within the scientific field.

El objetivo de este trabajo es realizar una investigación sobre la base científica de los superalimentos. Aunque no existen directrices oficiales sobre lo que constituye un "superalimento", esta denominación se aplica generalmente a los productos alimenticios que contienen grandes cantidades de nutrientes específicos (por ejemplo, antioxidantes, vitaminas y minerales). Estos bioactivos actúan como agentes potenciales para prevenir y complementar los tratamientos de enfermedades crónicas como el síndrome metabólico, la diabetes, la hipertensión, la inflamación, las enfermedades autoinmunes y otras. Como ejemplos de superalimentos, están los germinados, las semillas, las verduras, las frutas, la cúrcuma, el té verde, las algas como la espirulina, el ajo, el jengibre, el cacao, el polen, la jalea real, la miel de abeja, el coco y el acai. En este sentido, se podrían realizar otros estudios para investigar cómo se entienden los superalimentos dentro del ámbito científico.

Acute Flaxseed Intake Reduces Postprandial Glycemia in Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Crossover Clinical Trial.

Background: Postprandial glycemic excursions are associated with impairment control of diabetes mellitus. Long-term consumption of flaxseed can lower blood glucose levels; however, its effects on the postprandial glycemic response remain unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the acute effects of raw flaxseed consumption on the 2 h postprandial glycemic curve in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: This was a randomized crossover clinical trial. Nineteen men with T2DM were randomly assigned a standardized breakfast without (control) or with a previous intake of 15 g of ground raw golden flaxseed (flax). Glycemia was measured at fasting and postprandial at 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min. Palatability markers (visual appeal, smell, and pleasantness of taste) and taste intensity (sweetness, saltiness, bitterness, sourness, and creaminess) were evaluated. Results: The peak glucose rise and the 2 h AUC glycemic response reduced in the flax group by 17% (p = 0.001) and 24% (p < 0.001), respectively. The glucose peak time, palatability, and taste parameters did not differ between the two groups. Conclusions: Ingestion of 15 g of ground raw golden flaxseed before breakfast decreases the 2 h postprandial glycemic response in men with T2DM.

Beneficial Effects of Flaxseed and/or Mulberry Extracts Supplementation in Ovariectomized Wistar Rats.

Low endogenous estrogen action causes several injuries. Medicinal plants, such as flaxseed and mulberry, contain substances that have been shown to be effective to the organism. The aim was to verify the effects of flaxseed and/or mulberry extracts on ovariectomized Wistar rats. The animals received supplements of extracts and estrogen or saline by gavage for 60 days and were weighed weekly. Vaginal wash, blood, pituitary, uterus, liver, and kidneys were collected. Phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity of the extracts, lipid profile, uric acid, liver enzymes, and pituitary weight were measured. Histomorphometric for uterine wall and histopathological analyses for liver and kidney were performed. Flaxseed and mulberry extracts showed great antioxidant activity and large amounts of phenolic compounds. The treatment with extracts had less weight gain, increased pituitary weight, the predominance of vaginal epithelial cells, and reduced TC, LDL-c and lipase activity, similar to estrogen animals. Estrogen or flaxseed + mulberry animals reduced VLDL-c and TAG. HDL-c, uric acid, and liver enzymes did not differ. Estrogen or extracts demonstrated trophic action on the endometrial thickness and have not shown hepatotoxicity or nephrotoxicity. We suggested the beneficial effects of flaxseed and mulberry extract as an alternative to reduce and/or prevent the negative effects caused by low estrogenic action.

Influence of new phytoregulators on oilseed flax growth, development, yielding capacity, and product quality.

The use of phytoregulators is a modern way of producing crops to increase yields and product quality. The components of phytoregulators have a beneficial effect on the growth and development of plants and help to withstand unfavorable environmental factors, stress, lack of mineral nutrition, soil fatigue, and the action of a wide range of pesticides. The research is aimed to investigate the influence of three phytoregulators: Cherkaz, Floravit, EcoFus on two varieties of flax: Severny and LM 98. We conducted a 3-year, field experiment with flax. In the so-called herringbone stage of the plant growth, the flax seedlings were treated the investigated phytoregulators. Flax plants were analyzed for yields. The method of near-infrared spectroscopy was used to analyze the content of lipids and proteins in flax seeds after harvesting. The oil content in flax seeds was determined. Using chromatography, we analyzed each variant of the experiment from the point of view of fatty acid composition. The application of phytoregulators increased the seed yield by 14-19% and the short fiber yield by 9-20% relative to control. The protein content in the seeds of the experimental samples Floravit and Cherkaz increased by 2.3-2.5% and by 1.5% in the experiments with EcoFus relative to the control. The lipid content in flax seeds increased by 5-5.6% (Floravit), by 3.5-3.95% (EcoFus), and by 4.7-5.1% (Cherkaz) relative to control. The oil ratio in flax seeds of the LM 98 and Severny varieties averaged 35.5-45.5%. An increase in the oil yields was 2.8-6.9% for Floravit, 2-4.1% for EcoFus, and 4.4-4.9% for Cherkaz relative to control. The application of Floravit, Cherkaz and EkoFus in flaxseed cultivation contributed to an increase in polyunsaturated fatty acids in oil: the content of ω-3 fatty acids ranged 61.90-63.10% compared to control 54.70%. Floravit proved to be the most effective of the three tested phytoregulators. The studies carried out over three years allow us to conclude that the use of new phytoregulators contributes to an increase in the quality and flaxseed yield and the flax fiber yield. Floravit was the most effective preparation and can be used for pre-sowing seed treatment and during the growing season.

Linseed, Baru, and Coconut Oils: NMR-Based Metabolomics, Leukocyte Infiltration Potential In Vivo, and Their Oil Characterization. Are There Still Controversies?

Different fatty acid proportions produce potential inflammatory and metabolic changes in organisms. However, the evidence for how each fatty acid mediates the metabolic pathway, and its lipid stability remains controversial. To resolve this controversy, the present study investigated the metabolic effects of cold-pressed linseed (LG), coconut (CG), and baru (BG) oils in comparison to those of soybean oil (SG) in mice, in terms of their oil characterization and stability. The quality analysis showed less oxidative behavior among PUFA-rich oils (SO, BO, and LO, with induction periods lower than 2 h compared to 39.8 h for CG), besides the high contents of tocopherols and carotenoids in SG and LG. In the experimental study, CG presented higher triglyceride (257.93 ± 72.30) and VLDL-cholesterol levels (51.59 ± 14.46, p < 0.05), while LG reduced LDL levels (59.29 ± 7.56, p < 0.05) when compared to SG (183.14 ± 22.06, 36.63 ± 4.41 and 131.63 ± 29.0, respectively). For visceral fats, the adiposity index was lower for BG (7.32 ± 3.13) and CG (9.58 ± 1.02, p < 0.05) in relation to SG (12.53 ± 2.80), and for leukocyte recruitment, CG presented lower polymorphonuclear (PMN) (p < 0.0001) and mononuclear (MN) (p < 0.05) cell infiltration, demonstrating anti-inflammatory potential. In NMR-based metabolomics, although CG presented higher values for the glucose, lactate, and LDL/VLDL ratio, this group also evidenced high levels of choline, a lipotropic metabolite. Our study emphasized the controversies of saturated fatty acids, which impair serum lipids, while alfa-linolenic acid presented cardioprotective effects. However, coconut oil also has a positive immunomodulatory pathway and was found to reduce visceral bodyfat in mice. Therefore, for future applications, we suggest a combination of lauric and al-fa-linolenic acid sources, which are present in coconut and linseed oil, respectively. This combination could be less obesogenic and inflammatory and exert cardioprotective action.