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Ectoparasites Dactylogyrus spp. mainly infest fish gills and severely damage the host's gill tissues. Correspondingly, the explanation of the interaction of fish with Dactylogyrus spp. infection is still insufficient. The present study describes the changes in hemato-biochemical, immune, antioxidant, genotoxic, and pathological indices response of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) severely (n > 50), mildly infected (n = 1–50), and uninfected with Dactylogyrus spp. Data showed the adverse effect of hemato-biochemical indices in infected fish compared to uninfected, notably in severely infected O. niloticus. Compared to uninfected fish, there is a significantly decreased serum lysozyme and complement C3 and increased IgM and phagocytic activity along with significant upregulation of (COX-2), (IL-1β), (TNF-α), and (IL-10) genes in infected fish partially, in severely infected fish. Concisely, indices of antioxidants in the liver and gills marked an increased level of MDA in the infected fish compared to the uninfected fish. Conversely, levels of SOD, CAT, and GSH were decreased significantly with damaged DNA in the gills and liver of infected groups, particularly in severely infected (P < 0.05). Histopathologically investigating livers and gills in infected Nile tilapia indicated damaging and degenerative alterations, particularly with severe infection. Findings showed that Dactylogyrus spp.–infected Nile tilapia were effective in improving our knowledge of fish-pathogen interactions, which may be essential for fish defense against parasite infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans are constantly exposed to aluminum (Al), an environmental toxicant, and its accumulation in the glomerular could lead to acute kidney disease. Biologically synthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been employed in the management of kidney disorders. This study assessed the modulatory effect of AuNPs mediated by Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) on aluminum chloride (AlCl3)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Experimental rats were randomly distributed into six groups of seven animals each. Aluminum chloride (100 mg/kg bw) was orally given to the rats for 42 days to induce nephrotoxicity. Treatment with silymarin and HS-AuNPs lasted for 14 days. Serum kidney function, tissue arginase level and oxidative stress biomarkers, as well as tissue gene expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), lipocalin 2 (LCN2) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) were evaluated. Exposure of AlCl3 to the rats produced a marked (p < 0.05) increase in the levels of serum urea and creatinine in comparison with the control. Similarly, tissue arginase and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were also increased while a reduction in the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and nitric oxide (NO) were noted in the AlCl3-induced rats. Aluminum chloride also upregulated the mRNA expression of iNOS, LCN2 and IL-1β in the rats. These biochemical alterations were, however, attenuated by the administration of HS-AuNPs but the 5 mg/kg HS-AuNPs exhibited better anti-nephrotoxic activity than the 10 mg/kg dose, and could, thus serve as a potential dose for managing renal diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short hyperglycaemic episodes trigger metabolic memory (MM) in which managing hyperglycaemia alone is not enough to tackle the progression of Diabetic nephropathy on the epigenetic axis. We used a structural similarity search approach to identify phytochemicals similar to natural epigenetic modifiers and docked with SIRT1 protein and did ADME studies. We found that UMB was 84.3% similar to esculetin. Upon docking, we found that UMB had a binding energy of −9.2 kcal/mol while the standard ligand had −11.8 kcal/mol. ADME showed UMB to be a good lead. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay showed it to be a good antioxidant with IC50 of 107 µg/mL and MTT stands for 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) showed that it does not promote cell death. Oxidative biomarkers in vitro showed UMB was able to ameliorate glycemic memory induced by high glucose. Western blot revealed decreased histone acetylation under hyperglycaemic conditions and upon treatment with UMB along with DR, its levels increased. This led us to check our hypothesis of whether concomitant diet reversal (DR) together with UMB can alleviate high-fat diet-induced metabolic memory and diabetic nephropathy (DN) in SD rats. UMB was able to decrease blood glucose, lipid, renal, and liver profile concluding UMB was able to ameliorate DN and MM by increasing the histone acetylation level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research aimed to assay the role of dietary supplementation of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus (LDB) and Asparagus officinalis L. (AR) root in a single form or combination (as synbiotics) on growth performance, digestive enzyme activities, gut lactic acid bacteria (LAB), and multi-biomarkers against crowding stress in rainbow trout. During a 60-day feeding trial, rainbow trout (initial weight, 35.48 ± 0.34 g) were subjected to seven experimental diets including CG (control group without LDB and/or AR inclusion), LDB7 (1 × 107 CFU/g CG), LDB9 (1 × 109 CFU/g CG), AR5 (5 g/kg CG), AR10 (10 g/kg CG), LDB7 + AR5 (1 × 107 CFU/g CG + 5 g/kg CG), and LDB9 + AR10 (1 × 109 CFU/g CG + 10 g/kg CG). After 60 days, all supplemented diets with LDB and/or AR significantly improved growth performance, feed utilization, and digestive protease enzyme. Moreover, these feed additives could mitigate the stress-related effects on serum immune responses, hematocrit percentage (%), hemoglobin value, white blood cell and neutrophil counts, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities, malondialdehyde content, and cortisol and glucose value, as well as alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase levels (P < 0.05). The highest red blood cell count was obtained in the fish of the LDB7 + AR5 group at both experimental times (before and after stress). Dietary supplementation of synbiotics markedly improved amylase and lipase activities and total bacterial count (TBC) (P < 0.05). Serum catalase activity was significantly improved in response to diets supplemented with LDB7, AR5, and synbiotics at both times (P < 0.05). After stress, monocyte count in fish fed with dietary supplementation of LDB and/or AR except for the LDB7 group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). Although all dietary supplements of LDB and/or AR exhibited beneficial effects on most tested parameters, synbiotic diets, especially LDB7 + AR5, provided higher efficiency on metabolic processes and microbial function. Furthermore, they strongly alleviated the negative effects of crowding stress on immune, hematological, antioxidant, and serum biochemical markers. Therefore, dietary AR5 + LDB7 is recommended for high-stocking density rainbow trout rearing systems and aquaculture operations such as fish transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hemoglobin, being a hemoprotein, may operate as a peroxidase due to the hemolysis process and the release of heme into blood stream. Objective: Evaluation of the oxidative biomarkers and peroxidase activity of hemoglobin in patients with final stage of renal failure. Materials and Methods: The study encompassed a total of 200 blood samples, with 140 samples collected from patients diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and 60 samples obtained from individuals who were considered healthy control subjects. Results: Levels of various serum parameters, including total protein, urea, creatinine, albumin, free amino, disulfide, ischemia-modified albumin (IMA), peroxidase activity, and specific activity, exhibited a significant increase in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) when compared to the control group consisting of healthy individuals. Conversely, CKD patients demonstrated a notable decrease in levels of glomerular filtration rate (GFR), hemoglobin, native thiols, and total thiols compared to the control group. Conclusion: Oxidative biomarkers may present useful information about the oxidative stress and help to diagnose CKD patients in their advanced stages of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenate (AsV) is one of the most hazardous elements, and its increasing accumulation in plants is the major area of concern in present days. Therefore, an environmentally reliable approach is required to reduce the load of AsV into vegetables. In the current study, the potential role of gamma amino butyric acid (GABA; 10 µM) and sodium nitroprusside a donor of NO (SNP; 10 µM) in 21 days old seedlings of tomato and brinjal grown in Hoagland medium containing 25 µM of AsV was analysed by estimating physiological and biochemical attributes. AsV exposure reduced root and shoot length and dry mass by 18, 9 % and 15 % in tomato, and 23 and 10 %, and 27 % in brinjal seedlings, respectively. Additionally, AsV decreased leaf gas exchange parameters i.e. stomatal conductance, internal CO2 concentration, transpiration rate and subsequently photosynthetic rate. Although AsV stimulated sulphur assimilation and proline metabolism, but it raised the oxidative stress as evident by increased biomarkers; superoxide radicals (SOR), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), lipid peroxidation (MDA), and protein oxidation in both the seedlings. The application of GABA and SNP significantly mitigated negative effects of AsV on both the vegetables. The results indicate that GABA was unable to reduce AsV stress in the presence of L-NAME (an endogenous NO biosynthetic inhibitor), but addition of SNP rescued the effect of L-NAME. Overall, the findings suggest that GABA and SNP effectively mitigate AsV stress however, the involvement of NO appears to be necessary for GABA to achieve this task efficiently in the studied vegetables. These results will help to design strategies for mitigating arsenate stress in vegetable crops.

Cancer is a growing threat to human and animal health, The use of synthetic chemotherapy in the treatment of cancer is short because of lack of appropriate safety due to their drastic side effects. So, this study evaluated the ameliorative effect of Chrysanthemum on genotoxicity as well as renal and hepatic toxicity of capecitabine (xeloda), as a model of anticancer drug. Thirty six male albino rat were divided into 6 groups. Serum samples were taken at 21 and 45 days and bone marrow samples at 45 days. Comet assay, biochemical tests for liver and kidney functions were done also serum oxidative biomarker were measured. The results of the present study revealed that capecitabine (xeloda) caused harmful genotoxic effect, biochemical changes in oxidative biomarkers, liver and kidney function, however the use of capecitabine (xeloda) in combination with Chrysanthemum ameliorated these changes especially with high dose. In conclusion, capecitabine adverse effects could be successfully alleviated through the co-administration of the natural antioxidant Chrysanthemum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus is a major public health problem worldwide. Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of diabetes as it is one of the inevitable outcomes of the cellular process. The present study aims to investigate the putative antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant efficacy of limonene and vitamin E in comparison with metformin, a standard drug for therapy of diabetes. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 150 mg/kg of alloxan. There was a significant (P<0.05) increase in body weight of rats treated with limonene, vitamin E and combinatory therapy of limonene and vitamin E compared to the untreated diabetic group which showed decrease in weight. Combinatory therapy treatment of limonene and vitamin E showed significant difference (P<0.05) when compared with the groups treated with limonene, vitamin E and metformin. The combinatory therapy also reduced blood glucose levels, significantly (P < 0.05) compared to non-diabetic treated group treated with limonene and the group treated with metformin. Treatment with limonene and vitamin E, significantly (P< 0.05) ameliorated diabetic effect on MDA concentration and SOD activity. Pathological lesions observed in the pancreas treated with limonene, vitamin E and combinatory therapy of limonene and vitamin E showed normal tissue architecture compared to group treated with metformin. It was concluded that limonene and vitamin E exerted significant anti-diabetic and anti-hyperglycaemic effects in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valproic acid (VPA) is one of the most broadly used drugs for epilepsy disorders worldwide. Despite its great effectiveness, this drug causes liver toxicity. In this work, the effects of gallic acid (GA) on hepatic injury caused by VPA were investigated. We randomly divided 48 Wistar rats into 6 groups. Group 1 was considered as control. The second group received only valproic acid. The third group was a positive control group which was administrated with VPA and then Silymarin. The fourth, fifth, and sixth groups also received GA after taking valproic acid. Then serum lipid profile, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), inflammatory factor interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), and liver biomarkers of oxidative stress were assessed. VPA caused a substantial increase (p < 0.05) in AST, ALP, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), ALT, triglyceride (TG), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), creatinine (Cr), urea, protein carbonyl (PC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels plus serum inflammatory factor IL-1β. This drug also caused an obvious decrease (p < 0.05) in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), catalase (CAT), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), vitamin (Vit) C, and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Exposure to GA not only leads to a considerable improvement (p < 0.05) against hepatic damage caused by valproic acid, but also increases the antioxidant system and reduces serum ALP, TC, AST, TG, ALT, BUN, LDL-C, Cr, VLDL-C, urea, PC, and MDA levels. GA with its antioxidant properties shows a protective effect against hepatotoxicity caused by valproic acid. This antioxidant reduces the toxicity induced by the VPA by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory effects of IL-1β. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Salinomycin sodium, a licensed coccidiostat in rabbits, is used for fattening at a dose of 20–25 mg/kg. Salinomycin toxicity may arise from many risk factors (e.g., overdosage or use in non-target animal species). Silymarin extracted from milk thistle has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. This study aimed to investigate the adverse impacts of oral administration of salinomycin for 28 consecutive days and how to reduce its risks and side effects by administering silymarin. Materials and Methods: Eighty-four male New Zealand White bucks (1.750–2.000 kg) were randomly divided into seven groups (12 each). Group one was the control. Groups two and three were administered salinomycin orally (doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg ration). Group four was administered salinomycin (20 mg/kg ration) and silymarin (6.5 mg/kg body weight [BW]). Group five received salinomycin (40 mg/kg ration) and silymarin (13 mg/kg BW). Groups six and seven were administered silymarin at doses of 6.5 and 13 mg/kg BW. Rabbits were euthanized and slaughtered on day 29 using the Halal method. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine, urea, total proteins, albumin, total cholesterol, and high- and low-density lipoprotein (HDL and LDL) were analyzed in serum. Glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were estimated in the liver. A histopathological investigation was performed on the liver and kidney. Results: The MDA activity, AST, ALT, total protein, albumin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, urea, and creatinine values were significantly elevated in groups two and three. The GSH, catalase, SOD, and HDL were significantly lower in these groups than in the control group. There were moderate pathologic changes in the liver and kidney of the third group . However, the results of the fourth and fifth groups improved more than those of the second and third groups. The results of the sixth and seventh groups were nearly the same as those of the control group. Conclusion: Salinomycin toxicity was caused by oxidative damage because of reactive oxygen species formation. Silymarin (6.5 or 13 mg/kg BW) tends to prevent and treat accidental toxicity. However, the high dose of silymarin (13 mg/kg BW) had more renal and hepatoprotective capacities.

The hybrid red tilapia (♂Oreochromis niloticus × ♀O. mossambicus) is a promising tilapia fish with high growth rate, market acceptability, and the ability to live in a wide range of salinities, but it is sensitive to low water temperature. Therefore, the objective of this experiment was to improve hybrid red tilapia resistance to chronic cold stress by increasing unsaturated fatty acids and evaluating their effects on fish body weight, hepatosomatic index (HSI), body nutrient composition, liver function enzymes, histopathological alterations, and biomarkers of oxidative stress in the gills and liver. For 98 days, fish were fed four diets based on two dietary fat sources: corn oil (a traditional source) and Aquafat-O® (a commercial product rich in high polyunsaturated fatty acids), in different ratios of 3:0 (T0), 2:1 (T1), 1:2 (T2), and 0:3 (T3), respectively. Subsequently, all groups (T0+, T1, T2, and T3) were subjected to water cold stress at 13 °C for 15 days, with half of the control group serving as a negative control (T0-; at a rearing water temperature of 25-26 °C). Chronic old stress caused significant reductions in fish body weight, HSI, aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase activities, fat and energy contents, and oxidative stress biomarkers in the liver and gills. Red tilapia subjected to low temperatures showed severely altered histopathological conditions in the liver and gills. However, by gradually increasing the Aquafat-O® ratio in the diet, the negative effects of cold stress were mitigated. Thus, it could be concluded that the beneficial use of Aquafat-O® (as a promising fat source) at a percentage of up to 69.60 g kg-1 is necessary to cope with the cold-water stress for sensitive hybrid red tilapia.

Objective: To explore the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of Rhus longipes (R. longipes) leaf and stem bark aqueous infusions. Methods: R. longipes leaf and stem bark infusions were characterized via gas-chromatography mass-spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis. In vitro antioxidant and carbohydrate and lipid digestive enzyme inhibitory activities of R. longipes infusions were determined. Additionally, the modulatory effects of R. longipes infusions on intestinal glucose absorption, muscle glucose uptake, and biomarkers of renal oxidative injury were evaluated. Molecular docking was performed to determine the binding affinities of the identified compounds from the leaf and stem bark infusions on carbohydrate and lipid digestive enzymes. Results: GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of several phytocompounds, including palmitoleic acid, octadecanamide, 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and L-ascorbic acid. The bark infusion had significantly higher total phenolic contents compared with the leaf infusion, with better DPPH scavenging [IC50: (10.50±1.03) μg/mL] and ferric reducing [IC50: (9.85±0.32) μg/mL] activities (P<0.05). Both R. longipes infusions at their highest concentrations significantly increased glucose uptake in yeast suspension and rat psoas muscle with marked suppression of glucose absorption in the rat jejunum (P<0.05). With no cytotoxicity on Vero cells, the infusions lowered lipid peroxidation, increased cellular reduced glutathione concentration, and the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase in renal homogenate treated with FeSO4. Conclusions: R. longipes shows antioxidant and antidiabetic activities and could be a potential therapeutic candidate for diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of Rhus longipes (R. longipes) leaf and stem bark aqueous infusions. Methods: R. longipes leaf and stem bark infusions were characterized via gas-chromatography mass-spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis. In vitro antioxidant and carbohydrate and lipid digestive enzyme inhibitory activities of R. longipes infusions were determined. Additionally, the modulatory effects of R. longipes infusions on intestinal glucose absorption, muscle glucose uptake, and biomarkers of renal oxidative injury were evaluated. Molecular docking was performed to determine the binding affinities of the identified compounds from the leaf and stem bark infusions on carbohydrate and lipid digestive enzymes. Results: GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of several phytocompounds, including palmitoleic acid, octadecanamide, 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and L-ascorbic acid. The bark infusion had significantly higher total phenolic contents compared with the leaf infusion, with better DPPH scavenging [IC50: (10.50±1.03) ±g/mL] and ferric reducing [IC50: (9.85±0.32) ±g/mL] activities (P

Background and Aim: Salinomycin sodium, a licensed coccidiostat in rabbits, is used for fattening at a dose of 20-25 mg/kg. Salinomycin toxicity may arise from many risk factors (e.g., overdosage or use in non-target animal species). Silymarin extracted from milk thistle has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. This study aimed to investigate the adverse impacts of oral administration of salinomycin for 28 consecutive days and how to reduce its risks and side effects by administering silymarin. Materials and Methods: Eighty-four male New Zealand White bucks (1.750-2.000 kg) were randomly divided into seven groups (12 each). Group one was the control. Groups two and three were administered salinomycin orally (doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg ration). Group four was administered salinomycin (20 mg/kg ration) and silymarin (6.5 mg/kg body weight [BW]). Group five received salinomycin (40 mg/kg ration) and silymarin (13 mg/kg BW). Groups six and seven were administered silymarin at doses of 6.5 and 13 mg/kg BW. Rabbits were euthanized and slaughtered on day 29 using the Halal method. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine, urea, total proteins, albumin, total cholesterol, and high- and low-density lipoprotein (HDL and LDL) were analyzed in serum. Glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were estimated in the liver. A histopathological investigation was performed on the liver and kidney. Results: The MDA activity, AST, ALT, total protein, albumin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, urea, and creatinine values were significantly elevated in groups two and three. The GSH, catalase, SOD, and HDL were significantly lower in these groups than in the control group. There were moderate pathologic changes in the liver and kidney of the third group. However, the results of the fourth and fifth groups improved more than those of the second and third groups. The results of the sixth and seventh groups were nearly the same as those of the control group. Conclusion: Salinomycin toxicity was caused by oxidative damage because of reactive oxygen species formation. Silymarin (6.5 or 13 mg/kg BW) tends to prevent and treat accidental toxicity. However, the high dose of silymarin (13 mg/kg BW) had more renal and hepatoprotective capacities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the dynamics of oxidative stress biomarkers and biochemical constituents of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) genotypes against gram pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera). Selected genotypes viz., NBeG - 786, GL -13001, ICC - 3137 (susceptible check), ICCL - 86111 (resistant check), GL - 13042 and RSG - 959 were screened for enzymatic, stress biomarkers, nutritional and anti-nutritional compounds at different time intervals (24, 48, 72 and 96 h). Data on leaf consumption, damage rating, pest susceptibility or resistance (%) and pest susceptibility/resistance rating were recorded. Results indicated that activity of all metabolic sensors (including nutritional and anti- nutritional factors) increased except catalase activity in response to H. armigera feeding, this suggested that biochemical compounds and their regulating enzymes and antioxidant defence system played important role in plant defence. Clustering and heat map analysis revealed that superoxide dismutase, catalase, polyphenol oxidase, total phenols and tannins were predominant in chickpea under insect pest stress and their over expression in chickpea genotypes will increase the tolerance to pod borer. The chickpea genotypes viz., GL -13001, GL- 13042 and RSG- 959 possessed antibiosis mechanism of resistance and were found tolerant against H. armigera in field screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was undertaken on four mature Gir bulls (4-6 years) maintained at University farm, Junagadh for 4 months during hot summer season. Semen (n=6 ejaculate/bull) was collected using artificial vagina once a week from each bull. The fresh ejaculates were evaluated for physical attributes and oxidative stress markers in the seminal plasma. The overall mean values recorded based on 24 ejaculates for ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, mass motility (0-5 scale), individual motility, sperm viability, sperm abnormality, plasma membrane integrity (HOST reactive sperm), and acrosome integrity were 6.20 ± 1.27 mL, 1316.83 ± 155.07 million/ mL, 3.75 ± 0.20, 84.83 ± 0.94 %, 87.58 ± 1.07 %, 9.63 ± 0.83 %, 79.58 ± 1.01 % and 91.21 ± 0.52 %, respectively. There was a significant P<0.001) difference in ejaculate volume, sperm concentration and sperm abnormality between bulls. The levels of oxidative stress parameters, viz. lipid peroxidation and glutathione- S-transferase (GST) activity in the seminal plasma were 5.51 ± 0.26 μmol/mL and 16.30 ± 2.14 nmol/ mL/min, respectively. Individual motility, viability, HOST reactive spermatozoa, and acrosomal integrity were positively correlated, suggesting that any one or two attributes like motility or HOS test can predict the semen quality. The semen quality generally was in normal physiological range including oxidative markers even during heat stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we assess the dose-dependent antioxidant efficacy of ultrafine spherical functionalized core–shell yttrium oxide nanoparticles (YNPs) with a mean size of 7–8 nm and modified with poly EGMP (ethylene glycol methacrylate phosphate) and N-Fluorescein Acrylamide. The antioxidant properties of these nanoparticles were investigated in three groups of Sprague–Dawley rats (10 per group) exposed to environmental stress daily for 1 week and one control group. Groups 2 and 3 were intravenously injected twice a week with YNPs at 0.3 and 0.5 mg at 2nd and 5th day of environmental stress exposure respectively. Different samples of blood and serum were collected from all experimental groups at end of the experiment to measure oxidative biomarkers such as total antioxidant capacity (TAC), hydroxyl radical antioxidant capacity (HORAC), oxygen radical antioxidant capacity (ORAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and oxidants concentration as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The liver, brain, and spleen tissues were collected for fluorescence imaging and histopathological examination in addition to brain tissue examination by transmission electron microscope (TEM). Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to estimate YNPs translocation and concentration in tissues which is consecutively dependent on the dose of administration. Depending on all results, poly EGMP YNPs (poly EGMP yttrium oxide nanoparticles) can act as a potent direct antioxidant in a dose-dependent manner with good permeability through blood–brain barrier (BBB). Also, the neuroprotective effect of YNPs opening the door to a new therapeutic approach for modulating oxidative stress–related neural disorders. Highlights: • The dose-dependent antioxidant efficacy of ultrafine spherical functionalized core–shell yttrium oxide nanoparticles (YNPs) with a mean size of 7–8 nm and modified with poly EGMP (ethylene glycol methacrylate phosphate) and N-Fluorescein Acrylamide was assessed. • The dose of administration directly affecting the brain, liver, and spleen tissues distribution, retention, and uptake of YNPs and direct correlation between the absorbed amount and higher dose administered. • YNPs can act as a potent direct antioxidant in a dose-dependent manner with good permeability through blood–brain barrier (BBB). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stress responses vary throughout pregnancy and impact of late gestational variable stress (LGVS) with vitamin C supplementation on uterine contractility is barely explored. This study investigates fetal weight outcome and in-vitro uterine contractile responses to pharmacological agents during LGVS exposure. Twenty four nulliparous pregnant rats were divided into four groups of six. During gestation days 10–19, groups 1 & 2 received normal saline and vitamin C (10 mg/kg) respectively. Groups 3 and 4 were exposed to stress (sleep deprivation, predator exposure, immobility, rapid cage changes, noise, and foreign object) with group 4 concurrently supplemented with vitamin C (10 mg/kg). Serum cortisol, oxidative bio-markers, fetal weights and in-vitro contractile responses of excised uterine tissue to acetylcholine (Ach), oxytocin, calcium chloride (CaCl2), potassium chloride (KCl), diclofenac, and magnesium ions were determined. Malondialdehyde activity and cortisol were significantly increased in variable stress only exposed group when compared with control and vitamin C supplemented groups. Fetal body weights, superoxide dismutase and catalase activity were significantly reduced in variable stress only exposed group. Significantly impaired contractile responses to Ach, CaCl2 & KCl in variable stress only exposed group were modulated in vitamin C supplemented groups. Impaired contractile response to oxytocin was however not reversed. Relaxation responses to diclofenac and magnesium ions were statistically unaltered across groups. Impaired fetal weights and uterine contractile activity to Ach, CaCl2 and KCl during LGVS was modulated by vitamin C supplementation. Impaired oxytocin contractile activity was however unreversed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study examined the effects of zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) supplementation in maturation medium on in vitro maturation (IVM) rate, oxidative biomarkers and gene expression in buffalo oocytes. Ovaries from a slaughterhouse were aspirated and good quality cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) with at least four layers of compact cumulus cells and evenly granulated dark ooplasm were selected. COCs were randomly allocated during IVM (22 h) to one of four treatment groups: (1) control maturation medium (basic medium), or basic medium supplemented with (2) ZnCl2 (1.5 µg/ml), (3) Na2SeO3 (5 µg/l), or (4) ZnCl2 + Na2SeO3 (1.5 µg/ml + 5 µg/l, respectively). Oocytes were denuded after 22 h of IVM in the first four replicates. Specimens were fixed and stained to evaluate the stage of nuclear maturation. The spent medium was collected for biochemical assays of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide concentrations. A second four replicates were used for COCs for RNA extraction. The expression levels of antioxidant (SOD1, GPX4, CAT and PRDX1), antiapoptotic (BCL2 and BCL-XL) and proapoptotic (BAX and BID) genes were measured. Supplementation with ZnCl2 and Na2SeO3 during IVM increased the ratio of oocytes reaching metaphase II at 22 h, increased TAC and decreased MDA and H2O2 concentrations in the maturation medium (P < 0.05). Moreover, beneficial effects were associated with complementary changes in expression patterns of antioxidative, antiapoptotic and proapoptotic genes, suggesting lower oxidative stress and apoptosis. Supplementation medium with zinc chloride and sodium selenite improves the maturation rate, reduces oxidative stress and increases expression levels of antioxidative and antiapoptotic genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of fasting on responses of oxidative biomarkers and antioxidant defenses using different organs and tissues of Colossoma macropomum. The fish were divided into two groups: fed (control) and fasting (7 days). After 7 days, the fish were sampled for assessment of oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA-lipid peroxidation and PCO-protein carbonyl) and antioxidant defenses (SOD-superoxide dismutase; CAT-catalase; GPX-glutathione peroxidase; and GST-glutathione-S -transferase) in the liver, intestine, gills, muscle, brain, and plasma. The results showed an increase in MDA, PCO, SOD, and GPX concentrations in the liver and intestine of fasting fish. In contrast, in the branchial tissue, there was a reduction in the activity of SOD and CAT enzymes in fasting fish. There was also a reduction in CAT activity in the muscle of fasting fish, while in the brain, there were no changes in oxidative stress biomarkers. Plasma showed a relatively low antioxidant response. In conclusion, our results confirm that a 7-day fasting period induced tissue-specific antioxidant responses, but the increase in antioxidant responses was only for the SOD and GPX enzymes of the liver and intestine. Additionally, the liver and intestine were the most responsive tissues, whereas the plasma was the least sensitive to oxidative stress. [Display omitted] • Fasting induces oxidative stress in Colossoma macropomum. • Organs and tissues of Colossoma macropomum respond differently to oxidative stress. • The liver and intestine were the most responsive tissues. • Blood plasma was the least sensitive to oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SARS-CoV-2, an epidemic, causes severe stress in both human and animals and may induce oxidative stress (OS) and increases susceptibility to infection. Domestic animals are found infected by their COVID-2 suffering owners. Chronic immobilization stress (CIS), a model of psychological and physical stress of confinement, can trigger depression and anxiety in animals. We evaluated the ameliorative effect of the proposed SARS-CoV-2 prophylactic drugs melatonin, vitamin C, and zinc on CIS-induced OS, inflammation, and DNA damage in rats. Forty male Swiss albino rats (200–250 g, 7–9 weeks old) were divided into five groups as controls, CIS, treated with melatonin (20 mg/kg), and vitamin C plus zinc [VitC+Zn (250 + 2.5 mg/kg)] alone or in combination (melatonin+VitC+zinc) subjected to CIS for 3 weeks. CIS was induced by immobilizing the whole body of the rats in wire mesh cages of their size with free movement of head. Exposure to CIS significantly compromised the circulatory activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione with enhanced malondialdehyde, inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL10, and TNFα), and lymphocyte DNA damage in comparison to controls. Treatment with melatonin and VitC+Zn alone or in combination significantly restored the altered biochemical parameters and DNA damage of stressed rats to their respective control values. However, the cumulative action of melatonin with VitC+Zn was more effective in alleviating the CIS-induced OS, inflammation, and DNA damage. The present study indicates that the antioxidant combination can be an effective preventive measure to combat severe psychological and confinement stress-induced biochemical changes in animals due to abnormal conditions such as SARS-CoV-2.

Cardiovascular diseases are described as disorders of heart and vessels that involve stroke and coronary heart diseases. People in the Middle East converged to complementary medicine as an economic alternative to expensive healthcare services. Crataegus monogyna Jacq. (Lindm.) Rosacea is among the most commonly used herb for the treatment of declining cardiac performance, hypertension, and arrhythmias. Previously, we had shown that Crataegus Spp. (Hawthorn) extract increased the tendency of bleeding among patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Herein, the effects of Crataegus Spp. extract on oxidative stress, cardiac and hematological parameters were evaluated in Sprague Dawley rats. Male rats were randomly assigned into four groups. Group 1 served as control while groups 2–4 served as the experimental groups and were administered extract at doses of 100, 200, and 500 mg/kg. All the doses were given orally once/day and the treatment was continued for three weeks. Hawthorn treatment resulted in a significant decrease in the liver thiobarbituric acid reactive substances level in a dose-dependent manner compared to the control (1.258 (3, 24); P < 0.0001). We found a significant increase in the cardiac antithrombin III among hawthorn treated group compared to the control (4.18 (3, 24); P < 0.0001). On the other hand, hawthorn treatment decreased significantly the liver factor-X level (0.1341 (3, 22); P < 0.0001), while no significant changes were seen in soluble-platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (P-value = 0.0599). In conclusions, hawthorn extract possesses an antioxidant effect and blood-thinning properties. Hence, we recommend attention when using this herbal extract with other anticoagulation and/or antiplatelet drugs or undergoing major cardiac surgery.

A key hallmark in diabetes is altered reproductive functions. Kigelia africana is reported to offer therapeutic influence in diabetes. However, literature offers nothing concerning its ability to reverse reproductive complications of diabetes. This study investigates the effect of ethanolic extract of Kigelia africana (EEKA) on reproductive functions in streptozotocin induced diabetic male rats. Thirty adult male Wistar rats (150-200 g) were randomly divided into five groups; Group 1 (control) received distilled water (vehicle). Group 2 was treated with 250 mg/kg EEKA. Groups 3, 4 and 5 were made diabetic using streptozotocin. Thereafter, groups 4 and 5 were treated with 250 mg/kg EEK and glibenclamide respectively. Treatments were by oral gavage for six weeks. Body weight and blood glucose, liver enzymes and proteins, superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde activity (MDA), testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), sperm count, and motility were assessed. EEKA treatment significantly reduced blood glucose in diabetic rats. Serum testosterone was significantly reduced in diabetic group. However, treatment with EEKA significantly modulated the reduction. EEKA treatment in diabetic rats significantly increased serum LH. Therapeutic EEKA treatment in diabetic rats significantly reversed reduced sperm count and motility. EEKA treatment in diabetic group reduced MDA activity while significantly enhancing SOD activity. The significant increases in serum alanine amino transferase and aspartate amino transferase were significantly reduced with EEKA treatment in diabetic group. Total protein and albumin were significantly reduced in diabetic group but significantly reversed with EEKA treatment. Therapeutic administration of EEKA reduced hyperglyceamia, enhanced sperm count, motility, and serum testosterone levels in diabetic rats. Phytochemical constituents and robust antioxidant activity of EEKA is involved in the modulation and reversal of diabetes and impaired reproductive parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we assess the antioxidant potential of core-shell yttrium oxide nanoparticles functionalized with ethylene glycol methacrylate phosphate (EGMP). The antioxidant properties of these nanoparticles were investigated in heat stressed models of 21 rats (heat stressed group, group B). Different samples of blood, serum, and tissue homogenate were collected at different time intervals in order to measure oxidative biomarkers such as enzymatic antioxidants (SODs, GPX, GST, GR, and TAC) and oxidative byproducts (MDA, PC, and 8-OHdG). Liver specimens of prophylactic group and heat stressed ones were also histopathologically examined 2 h post NPs injection. The measurements of oxidative biomarkers were complementary with histopathological findings and confirmed the antioxidant properties of poly EGMP yttrium oxide NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

β-Thalassemia is an inherited single gene disorder related to reduced synthesis of the β-globin chain of hemoglobin. Patients with β-thalassemia present variable clinical severity ranging from asymptomatic trait to severe transfusion-dependent anemia and multiple organs complications. Moreover, multiple immune abnormalities are a major concern in β-thalassemia patients. Aberrant neutrophil effector function plays a pivotal role in infection susceptibility in these patients. In severe and persistent inflammation, immature neutrophils are released from the bone marrow and are functionally different compared with mature ones. Despite some abnormalities reported for thalassemia patient's immune system, few data exist on the characterization of human neutrophils in β-thalassemia. The aim of this study was to investigate the phenotype and function of circulating neutrophil subsets in patients with β-thalassemia major and with β-thalassemia intermedia divided in transfusion-dependent and non-transfusion-dependent. By the use of immunochemical and cytofluorimetric analyses, we observed that patients' CD16+ neutrophils exhibit abnormalities in their phenotype and functions and the abnormalities vary according to the clinical form of the disease and to the neutrophil subset (CD16bright and CD16dim). Abnormalities include altered surface expression of the innate immune receptor CD45, Toll-like receptor 4, and CD32, reduced ability to produce an oxidative burst, and elevated levels of membrane lipid peroxidation, especially in patients with a more severe form of the disease. Overall, our results indicating the occurrence of an immuno-senescent phenotype on circulating neutrophils from thalassemia patients suggest the usefulness of neutrophil feature assessment as a tool for better clinical management of β-thalassemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Paraquat (PQ) is a herbicide which induces oxidative stress and inflammation. Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects were shown for Zataria multiflora (Z. multiflora) and carvacrol previously. The effects of Z. multiflora hydroalcoholic extract and carvacrol on systemic inflammation and oxidative stress induced by inhaled PQ were examined in this study. Materials and Methods: Six groups of male rats used in this study were as follows: control group exposed to normal saline aerosol, one group exposed to PQ 54 mg/m³ aerosol, animals exposed to PQ 54 mg/m³ and treated with Z. multiflora (200 and 800 mg/kg/day) or carvacrol (20 and 80 mg/kg/day) for 16 days after the end of exposure to PQ. Exposure to PQ was performed 8 times, every other day, each time for 30 min. After the end of the treatment period, different variables were measured. Results: Significant increases in nitrite (NO2), malondialdehyde (MDA) and interleukin (IL)-6 serum levels but significant reduction interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) serum levels as well as IFN-γ/IL-6 ratio were observed in PQ-exposed compared to control group (p<0.01 for MDA and IL-6, p<0.001 for other cases). Treatment with both doses of the extract and carvacrol specially at high dose, reduced MDA, NO2, and IL-6 but increased IFN-γ and IFN-γ/IL-6 ratio compared to un-treated PQ exposed group (p<0.05 to p<0.001). Conclusion: Treatment with Z. multiflora and carvacrol improved systemic inflammation oxidative biomarkers induced by inhaled PQ which may indicate therapeutic potential of the plant and its constituent, carvacrol in systemic inflammation and oxidative biomarkers induced by inhaled PQ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An acridid Spathosternum sp. is abundant in grass-land exposed to azadirachtin; AZT. • Stress marker (SOD/catalase/GPx) rise in gonad/nymph in this sp. by AZT. • Pesticide AZT is more toxic to gonad of male insect with low antioxidants. • Nymph IInd stage is more susceptible than IVth to AZT. • Spathosternum sp. may act as a dependable toxicity bio indicator species. Acridids are highly abundant living-organism/major-component in agricultural field, globally. It may act as a dependable bio-indicator species in response to environmental-stress. Antioxidants protect insects by scavenging free radicals. Here, we investigated the dose dependant azadirachtin (C 35 H 44 O 16 AZT) toxicity on oxidative-biomarker; Alkaline-phosphatase (ALP), malondialdehyde (MDA), non-protein-soluble-thiol (NPSH) and antioxidants like superoxide-dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-peroxidase (GPx) and amylase of gonads from both sexes and juvenile tissues of common grasshopper, Spathosternum prasiniferum prasiniferum (Walker, 1871). The newly hatched adults (female: male = 1:1) are exposed to 1 to 20 ppm AZT for 48 h and have compared to control and 6 h incubation with same concentration of azadirachtin for in vitro experiments. Both in vivo and in vitro experiment demonstrated significant influences on oxidative biomarkers with increasing antioxidant enzymatic activities in either sex. The male gonads represents decreasing antioxidant enzyme activities compared to female gonads. Lesser protection by CAT and SOD are noticed in male than female in response to AZT exposure. This experiment suggests that azadirachtin increased the major biomarkers with decreasing antioxidant enzyme activities resulting in more free-radicals related threat in adult male gonads. Variable dose responses were noticed on ALP, AchE and MDA in either gender suggesting multiphasic action of the pesticides. Higher mortality rate is noticed in male with lower nymphal life span. Moreover, nymph IInd is more susceptible than nymph IVth in vitro intoxication of azadirachtin. Possible life threat of vast representatives of agricultural ecosystem by pesticide should be avoided to maintain different bio-geo cycle and eco-sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study different doses (0.05, 2.0 and 5.0 mg per 30 ml nutrient medium) of nano-powder (Azadirachta indica leaves) were applied in Cd contaminated (6 ppm) hydroponic system to regulate the metal uptake in Triticum aestivum (wheat) seedlings. Other physiological attributes including oxidative biomarkers, antioxidants and photosynthetic responses were also assessed. The level of Cd was maximally reduced at the dose of 2.0 mg nano powder per 30 ml nutrient medium by 45 and 49% in the shoot and root, respectively. With the maximum reduction in the Cd uptake at this dose, the generation of oxidative stress markers such as H2O2 (12%), MDA (26%) and SOR (20%) content showed maximum reduction in treated seedlings. At different doses of nano-powder, the activities of antioxidative enzymes were also showed significant variation. Further, the photosynthetic O2 evolution rate was improved with the treatment of nano-powder and the best response was noted at 2.0 mg per 30 ml nutrient medium with the maximum value of fresh shoot biomass (38%). The overall results suggest that, this technique could be easily applied for reducing the metal content and increasing the quality of agricultural crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aspartame (ASP) is used for treatment of obesity and diabetes mellitus. This study was designed to illustrate the biochemical responses and histopathological alterations besides the genotoxicity of ASP alone or with l-carnitine (LC) in the liver of rats. Methods: Animals were separated into six groups: control, lower dose of ASP (ASP-LD; 75 mg/kg), higher dose of ASP (ASP-HD; 150 mg/kg), l-carnitine (LC; 10 mg/kg), ASP-LD plus LC, and ASP-HD plus LC. Treatment was carried out orally for 30 consecutive days. Results: ASP raised the activity of some enzymes of liver markers and disturbed the lipid profile levels. The hepatic reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, the marker enzymes of antioxidant activities, were obviously diminished, and, possibly, the lipid peroxidation, C-reactive protein, and interleukins levels were increased. ASP significantly increased the DNA deterioration in comparison with the control in a dose-dependent manner. LC prevented ASP-induced liver damage as demonstrated by the enhancement of all the above parameters. Results of histopathological and electron microscopic examination proved the biochemical feedback and the improved LC effect on liver toxicity. Conclusions: The co-treatment of LC showed different improvement mechanisms against ASP-induced liver impairment. So, the intake of ASP should be regulated and taken with LC when it is consumed in different foods or drinks to decrease its oxidative stress, histopathology, and genotoxicity of liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study deals with impact of varied doses of arsenite (As III ; 50, 100 and 150 µM) and arsenate (As V ; 50, 100 and 150 mM) on growth, photosynthetic pigments, photochemistry of photosystem II, oxidative biomarkers, (O 2 • ¯, H 2 O 2 and MDA equivalents contents) and activity of antioxidant enzymes in diazotrophic cyanobacterium Nostoc muscorum after 48 and 96 h of the treatments. The reduction in growth, pigment contents (Chl a , Phy and Car) and PS II photochemistry was found to increase with enhanced accumulation of test metal in cells, and the damaging effect on photosynthetic pigments showed the order (Phy > chl a > Car). The negative effect on PS II photochemistry was due to significant decrease in the value of JIP kinetics ϕP 0 , F V /F 0 , ϕE 0 ,Ψ 0 and PI ABS except F 0 /F V and significant rise in values of energy flux parameters such as ABS/RC, TR 0 /RC, ET 0 /RC and DI 0 /RC. Both the species of arsenic caused significant rise in oxidative biomarkers as evident by in vitro and in vivo analysis of (O 2 • ¯, H 2 O 2 and MDA equivalents contents) despite of appreciable rise in the activity antioxidative enzymes such as SOD, POD, CAT and GST. The study concludes that in among both forms of arsenic, arsenite effect was more dominant on growth, photosynthetic pigments; oxidative stress biomarkers as evident by weak induction of anti-oxidative defense system to overcome the stress as compared to arsenate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined the influence of Citrus limon (dry lemon) on the hemato-biochemical profiles, and antioxidant indices of growing rabbits. Forty-eight growing New Zealand White rabbits (age, eight weeks; weight, 1543.33 ± 25 g) were allocated into three groups (16 animals each), the first group was (control) fed a basal diet, whereas the second and third groups were supplemented with dried lemon, 1% or 2% DLP, respectively. A GC-MS analysis of more than 27 active constituents was performed. Feed conversion efficiency was (p < 0.05) better with diets containing 1% or 2% dry lemon, compared to the control group. Hematological indexes were increased significantly with the addition of DLP compared to those in the control group. Adding 1% or 2% dry lemon to rabbit diet increased (p < 0.05) enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities (TAC, SOD, GSH, GST, and CAT) in serum and liver tissues. Taken together, these data reveal the advantages and antioxidant effects of dry lemon supplementation for growing rabbits once supplemented at a maximum of 2% in their daily diet.

Background: The abnormal biological activity of cytokines plays an important role in the pathophysiology of both systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Several studies have highlighted the association of vitamin D and certain pro-inflammatory cytokines with disease activity in SLE. However, there are limited data on the association of vitamin D and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) with various proinflammatory biomarkers in these patients and their relative impact on clinical outcomes. Methods: The serum levels of several aPL, 25-hydroxy-vitamin D, pro-inflammatory cytokines including IFNα, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IP10, sCD40L, TNFα and VEGF were measured in 312 SLE patients from the Jamaican (n = 45) and Hopkins (n = 267) lupus cohorts using commercial Milliplex and ELISA assays. Oxidized LDL/β2glycoprotein antigenic complexes (oxLβ2Ag) and their associated antibodies were also measured in the Jamaican cohort. Healthy controls for oxidative marker and cytokine testing were used. Results: Abnormally low vitamin D levels were present in 61.4% and 73.3% of Hopkins and Jamaican SLE patients, respectively. Median concentrations of IP10, TNFα, sCD40L and VEGF were elevated in both cohorts, oxLβ2Ag and IL-6 were elevated in the Jamaican cohort, and IFNα, IL-1β and IL-8 were the same or lower in both cohorts compared to controls. IP10 and VEGF were independent predictors of disease activity, aPL, IP10 and IL-6 were independent predictors of thrombosis and IL-8, and low vitamin D were independent predictors of pregnancy morbidity despite there being no association of vitamin D with pro-inflammatory cytokines. Conclusions: Our results indicate that aPL-mediated pro-inflammatory cytokine production is likely a major mechanism of thrombus development in SLE patients. We provide presumptive evidence of the role IL-8 and hypovitaminosis D play in obstetric pathology in SLE but further studies are required to characterize the subtle complexities of vitamin D's relationship with cytokine production and disease activity in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluates and compares firstly the serum biomarkers of oxidative stress, superoxide dismutase (SOD), induced nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione oxidized and reduced, homocysteine (Hcy), and total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), and secondly computed tomography (CT) scans for 30 diagnosed cystinuric patients before and after taking glutathione or placebo. The levels of SOD were significantly higher in patients who took glutathione (0.25 ± 0.10 ng/ml) when compared with patients who took placebo (0.17 ± 0.07 ng/ml, p value 0.047). Similarly, the level of reduced glutathione was significantly lower in patients who took placebo (0.81 ± 0.53 pg/ml) compared to the level of reduced glutathione in patients who took glutathione (1.71 ± 0.43 pg/ml, p value 0.000). CT scans which were done for all patients before starting the supplements and after showed that patients who took glutathione over 3 months had no new stone formation and the size of the already presented stones was still the same or reduced, while those patients who took placebo for the same period developed new stones and the size of already presented stones increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluates and compares the serum biomarkers of oxidative stress-superoxide dismutase (SOD), induced nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione reductase (GR), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), in a case-control design study of 30 diagnosed patients with cystine stone and 30 sex- and age-matched healthy control group. The levels of SOD were significantly lower in patients (14.47 ± 15.13 ng/mL) when compared with control group (26.18 ± 15.34 ng/mL), p value 0.003. Similarly, the levels of iNOS were significantly lower in patients when compared with the control group (20.42 ± 33.41 pg/mL) whereas in the control group, it was 55.13 ± 60.96 pg/mL, p value 0.005. Results showed that the levels of MDA were significantly higher in the patient group (0.08 ± 0.01 ng/mL) as compared to control group (0.07 ± 0.01 ng/mL), p value 0.02. Significant differences were observed in basophil counts between patient group and control group (0.37 ± 0.14%) in patients while 0.52 ± 0.22% in the control group, p value 0.002. When the relationship between gender and oxidative stress biomarker levels was statistically analyzed, there were some differences in both groups between males and females. Similarly, there were some differences between the different age groups in which both GR and MDA had a tendency to decrease with increasing age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: This study was performed to determine the effect of the tocotrienol-rich fraction on the lifespan and oxidative status of C. elegans under oxidative stress. METHOD: Lifespan was determined by counting the number of surviving nematodes daily under a dissecting microscope after treatment with hydrogen peroxide and the tocotrienol-rich fraction. The evaluated oxidative markers included lipofuscin, which was measured using a fluorescent microscope, and protein carbonyl and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine, which were measured using commercially available kits. RESULTS: Hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress significantly decreased the mean lifespan of C. elegans, which was restored to that of the control by the tocotrienol-rich fraction when administered before or both before and after the hydrogen peroxide. The accumulation of the age marker lipofuscin, which increased with hydrogen peroxide exposure, was decreased with upon treatment with the tocotrienol-rich fraction (p

In this research article, we investigated the effect of Euphorbia bivonae extract compounds on the lethality of brine shrimp Artemia salina and on embryonic cell lines (HEK293) proliferation. Our GC/MS analysis revealed that the E. bivonae ethanolic extract contained essentially sitosterol, euphol, and lupeol. The 24-h LC50 was determined using the probit analysis method (LC50=357.11 mg l -1 ). Depending on this cytotoxicity test result, E. bivona extract induced a significant increase in Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), Glutathione-Peroxidase (GPx) activities, and lipid peroxidation (LPO) in A. salina larvae. In addition, the cytotoxicity effect of this extract had proved against the HEK293 cell lines in vitro. We suggest that the three compounds of E. bivonae extract (sitosterol, euphol, and lupeol) are the most responsible for this cytotoxicity. The possible application of this extract as an alternative natural antiproliferative is considered., (© 2023 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)

The purpose of this study was to assess the oxidative biomarkers responses, antioxidant potential and metal accumulation tendency of weed plants collected from the control and metal-contaminated site. The metal contamination was found to be higher in soil and plant parts collected from contaminated site and the most serious problem seemed to be metal elevations above than the safe limit for Cd, Pb and Ni in the aerial parts of weed plants. There were variations in metal accumulation in different weed plants that was justified by principal component analysis. The enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants were found to be higher in plant parts collected from contaminated site. Based upon metal accumulation tendency, weed plants showed a translocation ratio (>1) that reflect their potential for metal remediation. The values of metal pollution index also showed higher tendency of metal accumulation in weed plants, particularly inSolanum nigrum,Euphorbia hirta,Amaranthus hybridusandXanthium strumarium, and they can also flourish at contaminated sites with more production of antioxidants. So, it suggests that studied weed species can be classified as phytoremediation plants and can be used as eco-friendly and economically feasible technique for restoring the land contaminated with toxic metals. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Fungicides are a pesticide that particularly kills or destroy fungi responsible for several diseases associated to humans and other living organisms. Assessment of toxic effects and mechanisms of fungicide action is important because humans and domesticated animals get exposed to these pesticides through a wide variety of applications. Several fungicides are being used at the large scale for the crop protection from the fungal invasion. Propiconazole (PCZ), a trazole-containing fungicide, is widely used in China and various Asian countries for food crop protection which made it easily to exposed to the aquatic system. Long term usage of PCZ may contaminate the water bodies, but its toxicity to aquatic organisms is not well studied. In this study, freshwater fish, Channa punctata Bloch was exposed to different sub-lethal concentrations of the fungicide, PCZ (0.5 and 5 ppm) for a period of 96 h. Various biochemical assays and histological alterations were measured to determine the organ toxicity caused by PCZ exposure particularly in liver, kidney and gills of the fishes. Compared to the control group, fish exposed to PCZ (96 h) showed marked dose dependent toxicity. The levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and protein carbonyls (PC), oxidative stress biomarker of liver, kidney and gills in the experimental group were significantly higher ( P < 0.05 and P < 0.001) compared to the control group. Levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and non-protein thiols (NP-SH) decreased significantly ( P <0.05–0.001) in all analyzed intoxicated organs of the PCZ exposed fishes. Activity of glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) in fungicide treated groups was significantly lowered ( P < 0.05–0.001). In addition, histopathological examination in the organs showed significant changes like atrophy of primary and secondary gill lamellae, infiltrations, inflammation, hepatocyte degeneration, vacuolization and necrotic kidney. Thus, PCZ exposure altered the oxidative stress homeostasis and brought about histopathological changes which may serve as potential biomarkers of the PCZ toxicity in the laboratory set-up for potential risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objetivou-se avaliar o metabolismo oxidativo de cadelas de um a cinco anos entre 10 e 20 quilos, comparando-se três técnicas de ováriohisterectomia. Constatou-se higidez das pacientes pelo exame físico, hemograma, ALT, creatinina, ureia, eletrocardiograma e ultrassonografia abdominal. Foram avaliadas as técnicas de celiotomia com ligadura dupla de poliglactina 910 após ruptura do ligamento suspensor ovariano (CelioLig, n=10); laparotomia e eletrocoagulação bipolar (CelioBip, n=10) sem ruptura do ligamento; e videoassistida com dois portais e eletrocoagulação bipolar (VideoBip, n=9). A avaliação dos biomarcadores oxidativos foi realizada imediatamente antes da cirurgia (basal) e após duas, seis, 12, 24, 48, 96 horas e oito dias após a cirurgia (p< 0,05). Foram avaliados a Capacidade antioxidante equivalente ao trolox (TEAC), a capacidade de redução férrica do plasma (FRAP), capacidade antioxidante de redução do cobre (CUPRAC), concentrações totais de tióis (THIOLS) e os produtos proteicos de oxidação avançada (AOPP). Não se verificou diferença entre os grupos nem ao longo das avaliações com relação as dosagens do TEAC, FRAP, CUPRAC e AOPP. A concentração total dos THIOLS foram menores nos grupos CelioSut e CelioBip que no grupo VideoBip oito dias após a cirurgia. Sugere-se que essa resposta tenha sido observada, pois duas pacientes incluídas na pesquisa tinham maior deposição de gordura abdominal, embora com escore de condição corporal levemente maior que as demais (6/1-9). Todas as técnicas provocaram resposta oxidativa, similares entre si. A técnica videoassistida promoveu recuperação clínica precoce. A técnica de hemostasia por coagulação bipolar provocou menores alterações comparativamente à técnica de ruptura do ligamento suspensor ovariano e ligadura. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bixin, a carotenoid found in the seed of the Annatto plant, Bixa orellana, is a potent antioxidant. Carotenoids are readily absorbed from the diet; therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine uptake of bixin by plasma, lipoproteins, and leukocytes after dietary supplementation in domestic cats and to assess effects on immune response. Female domestic short hair cats (3 yr old; 4.79 ± 0.13 kg BW) were fed a single dose of 0, 1, 5, or 10 mg bixin, and blood was taken at 0, 1, 2, 4 and 8 h after administration (n = 6/ treatment) to determine acute absorption rate. Then, bixin was fed daily for 14 d to examine steady-state plasma concentrations and subcellular distribution. Following these preliminary experiments, cats (n = 8/treatment) were fed diets containing 0, 1, 5, or 10 mg bixin/d for 16 wk and blood was collected on wk 0, 6, 12, and 16 for analysis of leukocyte subpopulations, cell-mediated responsiveness, and inflammatory and oxidative biomarkers. Maximal uptake in plasma occurred 1 h after a single oral dose of bixin, with a maximal concentration of 0.119 μM and elimination half-life of 1.8 to 2.2 h. Daily feeding of bixin showed a steady-state plasma concentration of 0.110 μM at the greatest doses. Bixin was primarily associated with the high-density lipoprotein fraction of blood lipoproteins and was primarily distributed in mitochondrial fractions (58-59%) of but also in microsomal and nuclear fractions (37-44%). Leukocyte subpopulations in blood were variably affected by dietary bixin, with an increase (P < 0.05) in total T cells but a concurrent decrease (P < 0.05) in CD18+ and B cell subpopulations. However, plasma IgG increased (P < 0.05) in the 10-mg treatment group by wk 6. Lymphoproliferation was stimulated (P < 0.05) in the 5-mg bixin treatment group by wk 16, and delayed-type hypersensitivity response increased after nonspecific antigenic challenge. Conversely, when a specific challenge of vaccine was assessed on wk 12 and 16, responsiveness decreased (P < 0.05) in the 10-mg bixin treatment group. Bixin supplementation surprisingly caused an increase (P < 0.05) in α-acid glycoprotein but had no effect on natural killer cell activity, other subpopulations of leukocytes, or 8-oxo-2>-deoxyguanosine, a DNA damage biomarker. This experiment demonstrated dose-dependent uptake of bixin in plasma and blood lipoproteins and distribution in leukocyte subcellular components and an impacted immune response through cell-mediated and humoral actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids are readily absorbed from the diet and distributed in blood leukocyte subcellular organelles. Bixin, a potent bioactive found in the seed of the Annatto plant, Bixa orellana, possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The purpose of this study was to determine the uptake of bixin by plasma, lipoproteins, and leukocytes in domestic dogs and to examine immunoprotective properties. To determine uptake kinetics, female Beagle dogs (2 yr; 9.1 ± 0.1 kg BW) were first fed a single dose by oral gavage of 0, 5, 10, 20, or 40 mg bixin, with blood collected at 0 to 16 h after administration (n = 6/treatment), and then fed daily with 0, 5, 10, 20, or 40 mg bixin/d, with blood collected at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 10, and 14 d. In a consecutive experiment, cell-mediated and humoral responses as well as oxidative biomarkers were measured following 16 wk of dietary supplementation with 0, 5, 10, or 20 mg bixin/d. Maximal absorption in plasma occurred by 0.5 h with an elimination half-life of 2.6 to 3.3 h after a single dose of bixin. Steady-state plasma concentrations were 0.053 μM after 14 d of 40 mg bixin/d. The majority of subcellular bixin was found in the leukocyte mitochondria and was associated with the high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein fractions of lipoproteins. Specific (vaccine) response increased (P < 0.05) but nonspecific mitogen response was unchanged after 12 wk of dietary bixin, as assessed by a delayed-type hypersensitivity assay. Both B cell plasma leukocyte subpopulations at 6 and 16 wk and IgG plasma concentration at 12 wk in the 10-mg treatment group increased (P < 0.05), although IgM production and other cell populations were unaffected. In addition, 8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), a DNA damage biomarker, was substantially reduced (P < 0.05) in all treatment groups by wk 16, and C-reactive protein (CRP) was suppressed at wk 12 (P < 0.05). Dietary supplementation with bixin showed no changes in lymphoproliferation in response to in vitro mitogenic challenge and had no effect in enhancing natural killer cell activity. In conclusion, bixin was readily absorbed in a dose-dependent manner in blood following oral administration and was then taken up by leukocytes, where it was primarily distributed to mitochondria but in other subcellular organelles as well. Bixin also appeared to stimulate immune response, as seen with cell-mediated responses, and exerted anti-inflammatory (reduced CRP) as well as antioxidative (reduced 8-OHdG) effects in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]