Alterations in the Intestinal Morphology, Gut Microbiota, and Trace Mineral Status Following Intra-Amniotic Administration (Gallus gallus) of Teff (Eragrostis tef) Seed Extracts

Cornell University, Kaiser Permanente Fontana, Bar-Ilan University

Abstract

The consumption of teff (Eragrostis tef), a gluten-free cereal grain, has increased due to its dense nutrient composition including complex carbohydrates, unsaturated fatty acids, trace minerals (especially Fe), and phytochemicals. This study utilized the clinically-validated Gallus gallus intra amniotic feeding model to assess the effects of intra-amniotic administration of teff extracts versus controls using seven groups: (1) non-injected; (2) 18Ω H2O injected; (3) 5% inulin; (4) teff extract 1%; (5) teff extract 2.5%; (6) teff extract 5%; and (7) teff extract 7.5%. The treatment groups were compared to each other and to controls. Our data demonstrated a significant improvement in hepatic iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) concentration and LA:DGLA ratio without concomitant serum concentration changes, up-regulation of various Fe and Zn brush border membrane proteins, and beneficial morphological changes to duodenal villi and goblet cells. No significant taxonomic alterations were observed using 16S rRNA sequencing of the cecal microbiota. Several important bacterial metabolic pathways were differentially enriched in the teff group, likely due to teff’s high relative fiber concentration, demonstrating an important bacterial-host interaction that contributed to improvements in the physiological status of Fe and Zn. Therefore, teff appeared to represent a promising staple food crop and should be further evaluated.

Analysis was performed by LC/MS using the Advion Interchim Scientific expression® Compact Mass Spectrometer (CMS).

Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) flour soluble extract improve intestinal bacterial populations, brush border membrane functionality and morphology in vivo (Gallus gallus)

Federal University of Viçosa, Cornell University

This study evaluates the effects of intra-amniotic administration of yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) flour soluble extracts (YFSE) on intestinal bacterial populations, brush border membrane (BBM) functionality and morphology, by using the Gallus gallus model.

Highlights:
  • Yacon flour soluble extract (YFSE) increased the relative abundance of bifidobacterial and Lactobacillus.
  • YFSE upregulated the expression of iron and zinc transporters.
  • YFSE decreased gene expression of inflammation marker and hepcidin.
  • YFSE increased glycogen concentration in pectoral muscle.
  • YFSE improved BBM functionality and intestinal morphology.

Analysis was performed by LC/MS using the Advion expression Compact Mass Spectrometer (CMS).

Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Antiproliferative Effects of Coronilla minima: An Unexplored Botanical Species

Selcuk University, University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, University of Perugia, University of Urbino

 

Abstract

Coronilla species, belonging to the Coronilla genus (Fabaceae), have long been used in traditional medicine for treating cold, diabetes, pain, and as cardiotonics. The goal of the present study was to explore the phytochemical composition and pharmaco-toxicological properties of C. minima. In this regard, phenolic content, scavenging/reducing properties and antimicrobial activity toward pathogen bacterial (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus) and fungal strains (Candida albicans, C. tropicalis, Aspergillus tubigensis and A. minutus) were investigated. Extract effects on human colon cancer HCT116 cell viability were also assayed. Finally, a bioinformatics approach was conducted with the aim to identify putative microbial and human protein targets underlying antibacterial, antimycotic, and antiproliferative effects.

Analysis was performed by LC/MS using the Advion expression Compact Mass Spectrometer (CMS).

Fluorescent 1-hydroxy-10-alkylacridin-9(10H)-one BF2-chelates: Large Stokes shift and long emission decay times

Graz University of Technology

Abstract


New 1-hydroxy-10-alkylacridin-9(10H)-one BF2-chelates absorb in the blue-green part of the electromagnetic spectrum and emit fluorescence with moderate quantum yields of 8–45% in toluene. The dyes show large Stokes shifts about 4300 cm−1, decay times between 5 ns and 15 ns in toluene and high photostabilities. Introduction of a fluorine atom into the acridone cycle results in an increase of the fluorescence quantum yield and decay time whereas immobilization in a rigid polymer matrix (polystyrene) further extends the lifetime up to 18 ns. Large Stokes shifts and long emission decay time make this dye class an interesting platform for time-resolved imaging and sensing applications.

Analysis was performed with APCI ionization on the Advion expressionL Compact Mass Spectrometer (CMS).

Simplifying the Flash Purification Process Leveraging TLC and Mass Spectrometry

The compound synthesis, purification and confirmation processes often present challenges. From ensuring successful synthesis of your product, setting up a flash purification method, and finally confirming ID of fractions, the lengthy work flow can be time consuming and repetitive.

This webinar will provide a foundation for flash purification processes, and will showcase a novel work flow concept that breaks down the process in to easy steps for optimal success. We will offer tips to optimize each essential segment of the workflow, and share seamless steps to quickly and easily drive the process from reaction monitoring to flash purification and fraction ID.

Presented by Dr. Daniel Eikel, Director of Customer Service and Product Applications, Advion.

This webinar was hosted by C&EN and recorded 8/13/20.

Characterization of astragaloside I‐IV based on the separation of HPTLC from Pleurotus ostreatus cultivated with Astragalus

North University of China, Lvliang College

Abstract

In this study, total saponins were extracted from Pleurotus ostreatus cultivated with Astragalus as one of organic culture substrates. High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) assay showed total saponins could be separated effectively, and four kinds of spots were identified as AG I, AG II, AG III, and AG IV, respectively. FTIR spectra based on HPTLC separation assay showed the saponin characteristic groups including ‐OH, C‐H, C=O, and the glycoside linkaged to sapogenin group C‐O‐C, suggesting the four kinds of spots belonged to cycloartane‐type triterpene saponins. The primary mass spectra of precursor ion (HPTLC‐ESI‐MS) assay further proved the main composition of four kinds of spots was AG I‐IV, respectively. Physical properties, including the detection of specific rotation and melting point, revealed the separation of high‐purity saponin monomer by HPTLC. HPTLC‐dual wavelength spectrodensitometric method detection showed that content of astragaloside I‐IV was ranged from 0.2 to 0.5 mg/g, and the total astragalosides contents attained to 1.397 mg/g, indicating P. ostreatus could bioaccumulate astragalosides from Astragalus. These results demonstrated the characterization of astragalosides based on the separation of HPTLC was effective, and supported to consider astragalosides‐enriched P. ostreatus as functional edible fungus for food and medical applications.

Practical Application

Currently, the consumption of enriched foods has become common and continues to increase due to urgent demanding for foods with high nutritional value. Pleurotus ostreatus is a functional edible fungus, which not only can produce secondary metabolites, but can enrich bioactive ingredients. Astragalosides have a wide range of biological activities, especially currently being tested as cardioprotective agent. In this study, P. ostreatus was cultivated through adding Astragalus into culture substrates, which realized massive enrichment of astragalosides. Astragalosides‐enriched P. ostreatus as functional edible fungus could be extensively used in food and medical areas, especially for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Analysis was performed by LC/MS using the Advion expression Compact Mass Spectrometer (CMS).

Distinguishing Patients with Idiopathic Epilepsy from Solitary Cysticercus Granuloma Epilepsy and Biochemical Phenotype Assessment using a Serum Biomolecule Profiling Platform

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Christian Medical College, Veterans Administration Medical Center, University of Montreal

Abstract

A major source of epilepsy is Neurocysticercosis (NCC), caused by Taenia solium infection. Solitary cysticercus granuloma (SCG), a sub-group of NCC induced epilepsy, is the most common form of NCC in India. Current diagnostic criteria for SCG epilepsy require brain imaging which may not be available in communities where the disease is endemic. Identification of serum changes and potential biomolecules that could distinguish SCG epilepsy from idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IE), without the initial need for imaging, could assist in disease identification, understanding, and treatment. The objective here was to investigate, using mass spectrometry (MS), sera biomolecule differences between patients with SCG epilepsy or IE to help distinguish these disorders based on physiological differences, to understand underlying phenotypes and mechanisms, and to lay ground work for future therapeutic and biomarker analyses.

Analysis was performed by ESI ionization using the Advion Interchim Scientific® expression® Compact Mass Spectrometer (CMS).

What’s in My Sample? Mass Spectrometry Instruments

Mass spectrometry is an analytical technique used to determine the mass-to-charge ratio of ions in a sample and therefore the sample composition. This method is used across many industries including food and beverage, environmental monitoring, and clinical. There are many features of mass spectrometers that must be considered before purchasing such as the required mass analyzer technology, ionization source, and dissociation technique. Join Lab Manager and our panel of experts as we discuss how to decipher mass spectrometry technology offerings and find the right solution for your lab.

As an attendee, you will learn more about:

  • Available technology for performing mass spectrometry
  • Features to consider when purchasing mass spectrometry instruments
  • How to find the right mass spectrometer for your application

Analyzing the World Around Us: Tools for Environmental Testing & Monitoring

Environmental monitoring is vital to understanding the world around us. Air quality, water, and soil testing all provide valuable information about an environment’s status. Tools and technologies for environmental monitoring can be used to evaluate the sanitation of a food and beverage lab or to monitor an ecosystem’s recovery after an oil spill. Join Lab Manager and our panel of experts as we review the tools available for environmental testing and monitoring.

As an attendee, you will learn more about:

  • Developments in technology for environmental testing and monitoring
  • Considerations when purchasing technology for environmental testing and monitoring
  • Applications for environmental testing and monitoring across industries

This webinar was hosted by Lab Manager Tech Trends and recorded July 9, 2020.

Food Science and Quality Control: Tools for Food & Beverage Testing

Lab Manager Tech Trends Webinar. Recorded June 25, 2020.

Food and beverage labs use techniques from other disciplines such as microbiology, environmental monitoring, and analytical chemistry to test for food and beverage contaminants. Unlike these disciplines, the food and beverage industry is highly regulated and therefore food and beverage labs have very specific needs. Join Lab Manager and our panel of experts as we discuss tools for food and beverage testing.

In this webinar, you will learn more about:

  • The latest technology for testing in the food and beverage lab
  • Applications for tools and technologies in the food and beverage lab
  • Considerations when purchasing instruments for food and beverage testing