Journal Description
Biology and Life Sciences Forum
Biology and Life Sciences Forum
is an open access journal dedicated to publishing findings resulting from conferences, workshops, and similar events, in all areas of biology, life sciences and at the interface of related disciplines. The conference organizers and proceedings editors are responsible for managing the peer-review process and selecting papers for conference proceedings.
Latest Articles
Geometric Morphometric Characterization of Isolated Colonies of Honeybees (Apis mellifera intermissa) in Northern Algeria
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036009 - 20 Sep 2024
Abstract
This study investigates morpho-geometric variations in wing conformations among honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) populations in Algeria, focusing on Apis mellifera intermissa in the northern zone. It addresses the threats posed by human beekeeping practices and hybridization. The analysis involves collecting and digitizing
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This study investigates morpho-geometric variations in wing conformations among honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) populations in Algeria, focusing on Apis mellifera intermissa in the northern zone. It addresses the threats posed by human beekeeping practices and hybridization. The analysis involves collecting and digitizing 445 honeybee specimens from nine localities in northern Algeria: Batna, Blida, Constantine, Cheffa, Jijel, Mila, Setif, Skikda, and Tipaza. Statistical assessments reveal significant wing anatomy variations across these zones. Principal Component Analysis identifies distinct shapes within populations, with notable differences in specific regions. Discriminant Analysis classifies samples into three groups, showcasing the model’s effectiveness. The Mahalanobis D distances provides insights into population similarities and differences, emphasizing the potential of morpho-geometric analysis in differentiating bee populations. The study concludes by highlighting the significance of size-independent data, offering recommendations for capturing honeybee diversity in different climatic zones of northern Algeria. This research advances our understanding of honeybee morphology in relation to environmental dynamics, providing valuable insights for preserving indigenous bee races and exploring biodiversity.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)
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The Evaluation of Citrus bergamia Phytochemicals as Potential Cholesterol-Lowering Agents against HMG-CoA Reductase: An In Silico Molecular Docking Study
by
Nesteve John Agosto, Patricia Blanch Alambatin, Joemer Bacalso, JC Cabisada and Beatriz Danica Carating
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 35(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024035007 - 20 Sep 2024
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Elevated cholesterol levels, or hypercholesterolemia, have been recognized as the underlying cause of various diseases, most notably cardiovascular diseases. Unfortunately, most cholesterol-lowering (or anti-hypercholesterolemic) drugs are associated with several adverse effects, emphasizing the need to identify new cholesterol-lowering strategies. Natural products, particularly bioactive
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Elevated cholesterol levels, or hypercholesterolemia, have been recognized as the underlying cause of various diseases, most notably cardiovascular diseases. Unfortunately, most cholesterol-lowering (or anti-hypercholesterolemic) drugs are associated with several adverse effects, emphasizing the need to identify new cholesterol-lowering strategies. Natural products, particularly bioactive phytochemicals, have gained significant attention for their safer profile, fewer side effects, and potential health benefits, including cholesterol-lowering properties. The citrus fruit bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is renowned for its diverse array of bioactive phytochemicals. In this study, an in silico approach was utilized to assess the cholesterol-lowering potential of phytochemicals derived from C. bergamia. Molecular docking using AutoDock Vina of the selected phytochemicals was performed against the HMG-CoA reductase (HMGR), an enzyme targeted for hypercholesterolemia. Our results indicated that among the selected 20 phytochemicals, 8, namely eriocitrin, narirutin, scolymoside, neodiosmin, brutieridin, neohesperidin, rhoifolin, and naringin, exhibited better binding affinities than the conventional HMGR inhibitor, atorvastatin (−9.2 kcal/mol). Notably, among these top eight phytochemicals, eriocitrin displayed the most favorable binding affinity of −10.0 kcal/mol. These findings strongly imply that C. bergamia possesses potential HMGR-inhibitory activity and anti-hypercholesterolemic activity, primarily due to the high binding affinities exhibited by its phytochemical constituents. Therefore, further studies must be considered to comprehensively explore the cholesterol-lowering properties of C. bergamia phytochemicals.
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Open AccessEditorial
Statement of Peer Review
by
Bin Gao
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 30(1), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024030032 - 10 Sep 2024
Abstract
In submitting conference proceedings to Biology and Life Sciences Forum, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...]
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Online Conference on Agriculture)
Open AccessEditorial
Preface: Proceedings of the 2nd International Online Conference on Agriculture (IOCAG 2023)
by
Bin Gao
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 30(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024030031 - 10 Sep 2024
Abstract
This conference volume presents the proceedings of the 2nd International Online Conference on Agriculture—Research Achievements and Challenges (IOCAG2023) held on 1–15 November 2023 [...]
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Online Conference on Agriculture)
Open AccessProceeding Paper
Study of the Amylolytic Activity of Thermophilic Bacteria Isolated from an Algerian Hot Spring (Azzaba, Skikda)
by
Sarra Bouaita, Zahra Sayad, Douaa Ziani, Rayane Bouguerba and Mohamed Amine Gomri
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036008 - 6 Sep 2024
Abstract
Thermostable amylases are among the most widely used and desirable enzymes in the food industry. Indeed, they guarantee faster reactions at high temperatures, enhanced substrate solubility and reduced microbial contamination and cooling costs. The objective of this work is to study the amylase
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Thermostable amylases are among the most widely used and desirable enzymes in the food industry. Indeed, they guarantee faster reactions at high temperatures, enhanced substrate solubility and reduced microbial contamination and cooling costs. The objective of this work is to study the amylase activity of three strains of aerobic thermophilic bacteria isolated from the hot spring of Hammam Salhine, located in the wilaya of Skikda, Algeria. The three extracellular amylase-producing strains were subjected to the quantification of amylase activity. They presented medium to high activity, with significantly the best production for the AS1 strain with an activity of 10.62 ± 1.289 U (p > 0.05). Monitoring the kinetics of AS1 amylase activity reveals that the maximum enzymatic activity was reached after 52 h with a value of 53.665 ± 2.534 U. The maximum growth was reached after 54 h of fermentation at an OD of 0.865 ± 0.081 at 600 nm. The study of the effect of the variation in physicochemical parameters on the activity of AS1 amylase extract shows that the enzymatic activity was maximal at a temperature of 100 °C, a pH of 8.0 and in the absence of NaCl. The amylase extract of this strain showed significant thermostability at 100 °C.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Identification of New Potential Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors Using Structure-Based Virtual Screening, Molecular Dynamics and Pharmacokinetic Modelling
by
Imene Derardja, Redouane Rebai, Mohamed Esseddik Toumi, Farouk Fethi Kebaili and Abdennacer Boudah
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 35(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024035006 - 6 Sep 2024
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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of drugs commonly used worldwide for their analgesic and antipyretic effects. However, an overdose of NSAIDs can have negative effects on various systems, including the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hepatic, renal, and neural systems. The search for new,
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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of drugs commonly used worldwide for their analgesic and antipyretic effects. However, an overdose of NSAIDs can have negative effects on various systems, including the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hepatic, renal, and neural systems. The search for new, safer, and more effective anti-inflammatory agents has now become a necessity. The aim of the present study is to identify new natural compounds that act against cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), one of the main anti-inflammatory targets, using computational approaches. For this purpose, molecular docking and MM/GBSA binding free energy calculations were utilized to discover new natural inhibitors for COX-2. In addition, several prediction tools, such as SwissADME server, QikProp, and Pro-Tox II, were used in this study to elucidate the pharmacokinetic properties, drug-likeness ability, safety, and the lethal dose (LD50) of the studied compounds. The results of molecular docking have indicated that among all phytochemicals under examination, canniprene, oroxylin A and luteolin show high docking scores and binding affinities toward COX-2 (−10.587, −10.254, and −9.494 Kcal.mol−1, respectively) when compared with the reference inhibitor. Moreover, the top hits demonstrated stability during molecular dynamics simulation and were found to conform to drug-like rules with good bioavailability. Toxicity parameters of the best hits indicate that these compounds could be safe COX-2 inhibitors, but further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Study of Carbon Nanotube–Bovine Serum Albumin Interaction Using the Tritium Radiotracer Technique and Supercomputer Simulation
by
Vitalii A. Bunyaev, Artem V. Sinolits and Gennadii A. Badun
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 35(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024035005 - 21 Aug 2024
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Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was 3H-labeled via a tritium thermal activation method that allowed quantifying BSA adsorption on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) to be 740 mg/mg, which leads to the ζ-potential of the BSA–SWCNT complex changing from −10 to −16 mV. Supercomputer
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Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was 3H-labeled via a tritium thermal activation method that allowed quantifying BSA adsorption on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) to be 740 mg/mg, which leads to the ζ-potential of the BSA–SWCNT complex changing from −10 to −16 mV. Supercomputer simulations were carried out with Gromacs and PM7 with MOPAC2016 with Berendsen, Nosè–Hoover and Parrinello–Rahman algorithms. The dominant interactions between BSA and SWCNTs are found to be hydrophobic, and hydrogen bonds are also present. The mean total energy of the Coulomb and Van der Waals interactions is −646 ± 8 kJ/mol, by gmx energy.
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
MspGI Restriction–Modification System and Its Flanking Genes of Microbacterium sp. Gd 4-13
by
Alfiya K. Yunusova, Elena V. Spirina, Valeriya N. Antipova and Rimma I. Artyukh
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 35(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024035004 - 20 Aug 2024
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Bacteria have defense systems against the penetration of foreign DNA (phages and plasmids). Some defense systems protect bacteria from phage penetration into the cell, while others block phage replication. Antiphage defense systems are often located next to already known defense systems (RM system,
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Bacteria have defense systems against the penetration of foreign DNA (phages and plasmids). Some defense systems protect bacteria from phage penetration into the cell, while others block phage replication. Antiphage defense systems are often located next to already known defense systems (RM system, CRISP-Cas system, and others). In this work, the genetic sequence flanking the restriction–modification system of Microbacterium sp. strain Gd 4-13 was analyzed. The genes of the endonuclease HNH, hypothetical proteins, recombinase, and helicase/ATPase have been identified. Their combination and some analogy with the DISARM, BREX, and Druantia systems allow us to hypothesize that, next to the MspGI restriction–modification system, there is another defense system, and together they create an island of antiphage defense in the bacteria in vivo.
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Exploring Biodiversity: From Macro to Micro and Beyond
by
Semir Bechir Suheil Gaouar
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036007 - 13 Aug 2024
Abstract
Early scholars such as Ibn Khaldoun laid the groundwork for understanding biodiversity, but it was 18th-century figures such as Carl Linnaeus who propelled its systematic study. Linnaeus’s classification system revolutionized biology, providing a framework for understanding life forms. Microbial biodiversity advanced with microscopy
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Early scholars such as Ibn Khaldoun laid the groundwork for understanding biodiversity, but it was 18th-century figures such as Carl Linnaeus who propelled its systematic study. Linnaeus’s classification system revolutionized biology, providing a framework for understanding life forms. Microbial biodiversity advanced with microscopy and microbiology in the 19th century, led by Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, Louis Pasteur, and Robert Koch. DNA sequencing and metagenomics further revealed biological diversity. Beyond visible light, transparent biodiversity calls into question our perception of life forms, and the limits of our senses when it comes to perceiving the totality of living forms should open discussions on a new approach in the treatment of psychiatric illnesses, suggesting perceptions beyond the visible spectrum and prompting the recognition of an invisible existence.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)
Open AccessProceeding Paper
Insights into Toxicity: Molecular Mechanisms of Aflatoxin B1 and Ochratoxin A in Spices
by
Maria Carpena, Ana Perez-Vazquez, Paula Barciela, Kinga Noras, Joanna Trafiałek, Monika Trząskowska and Miguel A. Prieto
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 35(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024035003 - 9 Aug 2024
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The European Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) has shown 1133 notifications for spices and herbs in the last 10 years (2013–2023). The analysis of these notifications indicated that 58.7% (665 alerts) of the alerts corresponded to chemical hazards. Mycotoxins corresponding
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The European Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) has shown 1133 notifications for spices and herbs in the last 10 years (2013–2023). The analysis of these notifications indicated that 58.7% (665 alerts) of the alerts corresponded to chemical hazards. Mycotoxins corresponding to aflatoxin B1 (24 alerts) and ochratoxin A (39 alerts) were found in 19.4% of the samples. Due to the presence of these biological hazards in foodstuffs, comprehensive knowledge of their molecular mechanisms of action is required as part of the risk assessment strategy. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a known potent carcinogen that has been linked to liver cancer in humans and animals. Its toxic effects consist of forming DNA adducts, causing mutations, and interfering with cellular processes. On the other hand, ochratoxin A (OTA) is known to be nephrotoxic, hepatotoxic, carcinogenic, and immunosuppressive in both humans and animals. OTA targets the kidneys and liver, exerting its toxic effects similarly to AFB1, i.e., through DNA damage, oxidative stress, and interference with cellular processes. This communication reviews the molecular mechanism of action underlying the toxicity of AFB1 and OTA found in herbs and spices in Europe, focusing on their biosynthesis, toxicodynamics, interaction with cellular components, and the resulting biochemical pathways leading to adverse health effects. Moreover, it discusses potential strategies for mitigating their presence in spices, emphasizing the importance of hazard characterization for effective risk management and regulation.
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Economic Analysis of Cattle Breeding around the Recently Created Dairy Basin in the Hodh Chargui Region, South-Eastern Mauritania
by
Youssouf El Hadj, Sidi Hamady, Saad Bouh Sidaty, Ali Ould Mohamed Salem Boukhary, M’Naouer Djemali and Mohamed Ould Ahmed
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036006 - 8 Aug 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Milk is an important product in Mauritania both for livelihood and food and nutritional security. (2) Methods: In this study, we examine the economic performance of cattle farms in the Hodh Chargui region using data from a cross-sectional survey of 50
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(1) Background: Milk is an important product in Mauritania both for livelihood and food and nutritional security. (2) Methods: In this study, we examine the economic performance of cattle farms in the Hodh Chargui region using data from a cross-sectional survey of 50 farms conducted in 2023. (3) Results: The results showed that the most significant cost item was animal feed (54%), followed by labor (40%) and charges induced by health and watering (3% each). In terms of income, the sale of young males accounted for the largest portion (48%), followed by the sales of dry cows (20%), lactating cows (17%), adult males (8%), and milk (7%). The average gross margin was MRU 131,697.82 ± 509,571.84 (equivalent to USD 3300.69 ± 12,771.22) per breeder per year. Out of the farms surveyed, 46% (23/50) reported a positive gross margin, while 54% reported a negative gross margin. (4) Conclusions: These results indicate a wide range of profitability, from lowest to highest, and suggest the need for improved management of cattle farms in Hodh Chargui in order to enhance their economic efficiency.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Physiological Analysis (Monitoring of Germinal and Biometric Parameters) of Abelmoschus esculentus L. Seeds under the Effect of 100 mM and 150 mM NaCl
by
Khedidja Dahli and Houria Medjdoub
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036005 - 8 Aug 2024
Abstract
Abelmoschus esculentus L. is a plant of legume origin; it is used in several areas of nutrition, industry and medicine. This study was proposed in order to understand the adaptation mechanisms of the seeds of this species under the effect of NaCl. Germination
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Abelmoschus esculentus L. is a plant of legume origin; it is used in several areas of nutrition, industry and medicine. This study was proposed in order to understand the adaptation mechanisms of the seeds of this species under the effect of NaCl. Germination was monitored by varying the concentrations of NaCl saline solution (100 mM and 150 mM).The physiological parameters were determined by monitoring the capacity and speed of seed germination at a temperature of 25 °C. The monitoring of biometric parameters was carried out as follows: Calculation of the water content of sprouted okra seeds after one week and-evaluation of the radical length carried out by up-to-date measurements of the radical length of germinated seeds for one week. From the results obtained, it was noted that the cumulative rate of germinated seeds is estimated to be from 17.27% to 14.55% under the effect of 100 mM and 150 mM, respectively, as compared to 47.27% for the control seeds. In addition, it was observed that the treatment with 100 mM NaCl causes a decrease in the germination speed (23.58%) and a slight prolongation in time as compared to the control. On the other hand, the treatment with 150 mM induces a remarkable decrease in germination speed (13.96% versus 24.39%) and average time as compared to the control (2.9 days versus 4.1 days). Furthermore, the monitoring of biometric parameters highlights two essential points: the NaCl treatment limits the growth of seed radicals and reduces the water content of okra seeds as compared to the control. In light of these results, it is possible to conclude that treatment with sodium chloride has a detrimental effect on the germination and growth of Abelmoschus esculentus L. seeds.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Lung Cancer Biomarker Identification from Differential Expression Analysis Using RNA-Seq Data for Designing Multitargeted Drugs
by
Syed Naseer Ahmad Shah and Rafat Parveen
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 35(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024035002 - 7 Aug 2024
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Lung cancer presents a global health challenge, demanding exploration of its molecular intricacies for treatment targets. The goal is to delay progression and intervene early, reducing patient burden. Novel biomarkers are urgently needed for early diagnosis. We analysed RNA sequencing on lung cancer
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Lung cancer presents a global health challenge, demanding exploration of its molecular intricacies for treatment targets. The goal is to delay progression and intervene early, reducing patient burden. Novel biomarkers are urgently needed for early diagnosis. We analysed RNA sequencing on lung cancer samples from NCBI’s SRA database. Using Bioconductor in R, we identified key genes, including hub genes TOP2A and TMEM100, crucial for cellular processes. Additionally, FDA-approved drugs are repurposed as multitargeted inhibitors against upregulated genes, validated through simulations. This approach aims to inhibit the function of crucial genes, potentially offering effective treatment for lung cancer within a comprehensive strategy.
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Do Genetic Variations in Broilers Modify Metabolic Responses to the New Climatic Situation?
by
Abdelhak Karim Mouss, Dalila Hammouche, Rahla Meziane and Hacène Ikhlef
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036004 - 1 Aug 2024
Abstract
Algeria faces food and nutritional challenges, and breeding meat chickens could represent a tangible solution to the growing demand for animal protein. This activity plays a vital role in the national economy by creating jobs, stimulating growth, and contributing significantly to food security.
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Algeria faces food and nutritional challenges, and breeding meat chickens could represent a tangible solution to the growing demand for animal protein. This activity plays a vital role in the national economy by creating jobs, stimulating growth, and contributing significantly to food security. However, the activity faces many limiting factors, including the thermal stress generated by the new climate. Meat chickens, known for their sensitivity to heat, enhanced by the presence of feathers and the absence of sweat glands, are exposed to life-threatening situations involving the activity’s production and sustainability. Given all these considerations, the presented work looked at the metabolic responses of two strains of meat chickens, Cobb 500 and Arbor Acres, expressed by the evolution of serum levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and production indicators. The experiment was conducted under thermal stress conditions widely encountered in northern Algeria during the summer. The results revealed that the Cobb 500 strain has better physiological responses than the Arbor Acres strain. This resulted in significant increases in T3 levels (2.21 ± 0.15 vs. 1.75 ± 0.23 ng/mL; p = 0.00026) and T4 levels (17.81 ± 1.62 vs. 13.28 ± 0.99 pg/mL) observed at the age of 50. The same applied in terms of production indicators with significant improvements in living weight (3421.29 ± 126.33 vs. 2944.56 ± 156.76 g/s; p = 0.0097), average daily gain (72.33 ± 6.66 vs. 61.26 ± 5.44 g/s/j; p = 0.0013), consumption index (1.88 ± 0.22 vs. 2.11 ± 0.34; p = 0.017) and mortality rate (6.98 ± 1.01 vs. 9.21 ± 2.97%; p = 2.0050). The results also highlighted the usefulness of using thyroid hormones as stress indicators and being able to take appropriate measures if necessary.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Study of the Physiological Responses of Two Strains of Laying Hens under Thermal Challenge
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Dalila Hammouche, Abdelhak Karim Mouss, Rahla Meziane and Hacene Ikhlef
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036003 - 31 Jul 2024
Abstract
The breeding of laying hens has been profoundly transformed by various factors from genetic selection to the development of infrastructure, including nutritional and health management, making this activity a pillar of the food chain. However, temperature fluctuations, which are increasingly frequent due to
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The breeding of laying hens has been profoundly transformed by various factors from genetic selection to the development of infrastructure, including nutritional and health management, making this activity a pillar of the food chain. However, temperature fluctuations, which are increasingly frequent due to climatic upheavals, pose significant challenges to production systems. Thermal challenges could have harmful consequences for physiological responses, thus impacting the ability to produce eggs optimally. In this general context, the work presented aims to study specific aspects of the physiological responses in two strains of laying hens, Novogen Brown and Isa Brown. The birds were maintained under thermal challenge, and measurements of the blood lipid profile and laying performance were carried out from the 26th to the 36th week of age at the rate of a sample every 15 days. The results revealed that the Novogen Brown strain presents significantly lower cholesterol levels than the Isa Brown strain when considering all samples (2.02 ± 0.09 vs. 2.45 ± 0.04 g/L; p = 0.0098). This general trend in the results was also observed for triglyceride levels, with respective means of 1.99 ± 0.02 vs. 2.12 ± 0.08 g/L; p = 0.034. The production indicators were in favor of the Novogen Brown strain, where significant increases in the laying rate were recorded (82.33 ± 3.32 vs. 79.82 ± 4.21%; p = 0.0041), of egg weight (59.98 ± 1.33 vs. 57.23 ± 2.32; p = 0.00097), as well as a reduction in the breakage rate (4.99 ± 0.23 vs. 6.02 ± 0.58%; p = 0.021) and mortality rate (6.41 ± 1.11 vs. 8.23 ± 2.22; p = 0.016). All the results also highlighted physiological responses that materialized due toa disturbance in the lipid balance, which impacted the entire production process.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Bioactive Potential of Milk Thistle (Sylibum marianum) Seeds and Applicability of Its Edible Oil in Food Processing
by
Anis Chikhoune, Aicha Ghazi and Fahima Adjadj
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036002 - 26 Jul 2024
Abstract
This study aims to explore the potential of Algerian milk thistle (Silybum marianum) seeds for food application. Solid–liquid extraction and Soxhlet extraction methods were employed to obtain both aqueous and fatty fractions using different solvents. Spectrophotometry was used to assess the
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This study aims to explore the potential of Algerian milk thistle (Silybum marianum) seeds for food application. Solid–liquid extraction and Soxhlet extraction methods were employed to obtain both aqueous and fatty fractions using different solvents. Spectrophotometry was used to assess the content of bioactive compounds and pigments, while gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyzed the fatty acid composition. Additionally, the oxidative stability of the plant oil was evaluated using the Rancimat test. The results indicated a moisture content of 0.779% and a plant oil extraction yield of 0.278%. The polyphenol content in the oil was measured at 142.66 mg/100 g. The choice of solvent significantly impacted the content of bioactive compounds, with the highest values observed in the 80% methanol extract for total polyphenols, the aqueous extract for total flavonoids, and the ethanol extract for reducing power. Furthermore, the present study quantified pigments including chlorophyll, carotenoids, anthocyanins, and carotenoids. GC-MS analysis revealed a diverse range of fatty acids typical of edible oils, including essential fatty acids from the ω3, ω6, and ω9 series. The Rancimat test indicated an oxidation resistance of 14.65 h. Overall, the findings suggest that Silybum marianum holds promise as an edible oil source rich in antioxidants, micronutrients, and essential fatty acids.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)
Open AccessProceeding Paper
Evaluation of the Anti-Free Radical and Antibacterial Properties of Methanolic and Aqueous Extracts of an Algerian Propolis
by
Hibat Allah Brahimi, Hakima Oulebsir-Mohandkaci and Abdel Hamid Guelil
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 36(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024036001 - 26 Jul 2024
Abstract
Propolis is a beekeeping product that has been widely known since Antiquity for its beneficial effects on human health; it has significant therapeutic potential and many biological properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial and antioxidant activity, using the
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Propolis is a beekeeping product that has been widely known since Antiquity for its beneficial effects on human health; it has significant therapeutic potential and many biological properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial and antioxidant activity, using the DPPH test, of a sample of propolis from the Maadid region (in the wilaya of M’sila in eastern Algeria). The antibacterial activity of methanolic and aqueous propolis extracts was assessed in Mueller–Hinton (MH) agar medium using the disc diffusion technique on the Gram-positive microorganism Staphylococcus aureus. Our results showed that all the concentrations of the extracts tested had significant activity, with the zones of inhibition ranging from (44 ± 3.46 mm) to (10.16 ± 1.25 mm). In addition, propolis has an antioxidant power, expressed in IC50, of EAqP 0.301 ± 0.007 mg/mL and EMeth P 0.194 ± 0.016 mg/mL at a concentration of 1 mg/mL compared to the BHT control (0.087 ± 0.03 mg/mL). This study shows that the methanolic and aqueous extracts have a high level of interesting activity. We also confirm that propolis is an important natural product of the hive that can be used in a number of fields: pharmaceutical and food.
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 9th International Seminar (MGIBR) Management and Genetic Improvement of Biological Ressources)
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Open AccessProceeding Paper
Recent Advances in Understanding the Keys Factors Influencing Pressurized Liquid Extraction of Secondary Metabolites: A Comprehensive Review
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Pauline Donn, Sepidar Seyyedi-Mansour, Franklin Chamorro, Paula Garcia-Oliveira, Javier Echave, Ana Perez-Vazquez, Paula Barciela, Lucia Cassani and Miguel Angel Prieto
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2024, 35(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2024035001 - 15 Jul 2024
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Pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) has become a pivotal technology for extracting secondary metabolites (e.g., phenolic compounds) from botanical sources, with implications spanning across pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and functional foods. This communication provides an overview of recent advancements in understanding the key factors influencing the
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Pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) has become a pivotal technology for extracting secondary metabolites (e.g., phenolic compounds) from botanical sources, with implications spanning across pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and functional foods. This communication provides an overview of recent advancements in understanding the key factors influencing the efficiency and selectivity of the PLE of these bioactive compounds. The optimization of PLE parameters, including pressure, temperature, and solvent characteristics, has been a focal point in recent research to enhance extraction yield and preserve the integrity of secondary metabolites. Investigations into the interaction of sample matrix properties, particle size, and solvent polarity have revealed nuanced effects on the extraction process, contributing valuable insights to developing targeted extraction protocols. Also, technological innovations, such as the utilization of green solvents and novel extraction techniques, are reshaping the landscape of PLE. Different studies exploring sustainable approaches not only enhance extraction efficiency but also align with the growing emphasis on environmentally friendly practices, paving the way for greener extraction processes. Collaborative efforts among researchers have led to a deeper understanding of the factors influencing PLE. Thus, this review highlights the recent progress in unraveling the complexities of the PLE of secondary metabolites, fostering a foundation for optimizing extraction methodologies and leveraging these bioactive compounds for diverse applications.
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Remarks and Abstracts of the 14th Asian Congress of Nutrition in Chengdu, China, 14–17 September 2023
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The 14th Asian Congress of Nutrition, organized by the Federation of Asian Nutrition Societies (FANS) and the Chinese Nutrition Society (CNS), convened in Chengdu, Sichuan, from 14 to 17 September 2023 [...]
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 14th Asian Congress of Nutrition)
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Statement of Peer Review
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Arun K. Bhunia
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In submitting conference proceedings to Biology and Life Sciences Forum, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...]
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(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 4th International Electronic Conference on Foods)