Search Results (609)

The stability of spore-forming soil bacteria is crucial for their effective use in agricultural biopreparations. This study evaluated the long-term survivability of selected strains (Paenibacillus amylolyticus, Priestia megaterium, Bacillus velezensis, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus licheniformis) with potential applications in biopreparations for crop residue decomposition. The effects of different storage and preservation conditions on vegetative cells and bacterial spores were studied over 12 months. Bacteria were stored at different temperatures (15 °C, 21 °C, 30 °C), pH levels (5, 9, and post-cultivation liquid pH), and osmotic pressures (2%, 5%, and 10% of carbamide, calcium chloride, and multicomponent fertilizer). Additionally, freeze-drying, spray-drying and freezing were performed using cryoprotectants (skimmed milk, trehalose, and glycerol). The results showed that bacterial stability depended on both the strain and storage conditions. Vegetative cells of P. amylolyticus and B. velezensis were most sensitive to temperatures of 30 °C, whereas the spores of most strains demonstrated high temperature resistance. The tested strains exhibited better survivability at pH 5 than pH 9. The addition of calcium chloride, carbamide, or multicomponent fertilizer proved beneficial for maintaining viability, especially increasing spore numbers. Trehalose and skimmed milk were the most effective cryoprotectants overall, though efficacy varied by strain and cell form. These findings provide insight into the optimal conditions for preserving the bacterial viability of spore-producing bacteria in bioformulations, which is crucial for maintaining their effectiveness in agricultural applications. Full article

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic estrogen widely used in the manufacture of food packaging materials, raising concerns due to its potential migration into food products. This study aims to determine BPA levels in pasteurized milk marketed in Algeria, using an easy-to-handle and efficient liquid–liquid extraction method coupled with liquid chromatography and fluorescence detection. A total of 30 pasteurized milk samples packaged in plastic were analyzed. The method validation demonstrated excellent linearity, with a limit of detection of 3.76 µg/L and a limit of quantification of 11.40 µg/L. Among the analyzed samples, 17 contained detectable BPA levels, ranging from not detectable to 24.07 µg/L, with an average concentration of 3.77 ± 5.77 µg/L, compliant with European regulation. The health risk assessment, based on estimated chronic daily intake and hazard index, indicated no significant risk associated with BPA exposure through milk consumption in the studied population. Additionally, the estrogenic equivalence of BPA in milk was 6.032 × 10⁻⁵ µgE₂/L, confirming a low estrogenic activity. Full article

This paper describes a detailed evaluation of published works, in which proteomics methodological approaches and technologies were used to advance knowledge about small ruminants. The specific objective of this assessment was the presentation of quantitative characteristics on the content and the bibliometric details of publications on the use of proteomics methodological approaches and technologies in small ruminant work. For the search of published papers, the following topical search string was used: [sheep OR ovine OR Ovis aries OR goat* OR caprine OR Capra hircus] AND [proteom*], in the Web of Science database. In total, 481 published papers (448 original articles and 33 reviews) were evaluated individually. These originated from 56 countries, mostly from China and the United States of America, and increased gradually with time. Most (85.7%) original articles presented experimental work with animals, most often in sheep/goat production (37.4%) and reproduction (21.8%), and less often in physiology (19.0%) or diseases (17.9%). Tissues analyzed more often were milk (17.9%), blood (10.3%), and muscle (9.2%). The proteomics methodological approach and technology employed most frequently was the liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (52.9% of articles). The journal, in which papers were published most frequently, was the Journal of Proteomics (8.3%). There were 3689 authors in total in the published papers, with a median number of 7 per paper Median number of references was 50 per published paper. Median number of citations was eight per published paper, and median number of annual citations was 2.0 per published paper. Significant predictors for the number of annual citations were (a) for reviews, the number of references, and (b) for original articles, the number of references, the topic of study, and the animal species referred to in the articles. The Epimetre briefly reviews the contribution of proteomics in the health management of sheep and goats. Overall, the results have indicated that the use of proteomics methodological approaches and technologies in sheep and goat work has advanced our knowledge and understanding of the biology of these two animal species in a multitude of fields and topics internationally, with an increasing dissemination and applicability. Full article

Background: The variation in sheep milk composition is closely related to the sheep’s metabolic status. This study aimed to analyze the milk composition and serum metabolic characteristics of Xinggao sheep during different lactation periods and to evaluate the association between milk quality traits and body metabolism. Methods: Eighteen intensively reared ewes were divided into three groups: an early lactation group (MA), a mid-lactation group (MB), and a late lactation group (MC). Milk components were detected by infrared spectroscopy, and the ewes’ serum metabolomic characteristics were detected by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). K-means correlation analysis revealed that the milk fat percentage was positively correlated with L-aspartic acid and negatively correlated with citrulline levels. Random forest analysis for metabolite importance ranking showed that methionine sulfoxide and methionine exhibited high mean decrease accuracy and mean decrease Gini index values. Results: The milk composition results showed that, compared with MA, the milk fat content and total solids in MB and MC were significantly higher, while the freezing point in the MC was significantly lower. Metabolomic studies showed that 207, 210, and 238 differential metabolites were identified in the comparisons of MA vs. MB MA vs. MC, and MB vs. MC, respectively, and these metabolites were mainly enriched in the pyrimidine metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and arginine biosynthesis pathways. Evaluation of metabolite importance using random forest models revealed that 27 metabolites, including 2-Arachidonyl glycerol ether, methionine, and methionine sulfoxide, showed a high mean decrease accuracy and mean decrease Gini index. Correlation analysis revealed that milk fat percentage and total solids were positively correlated with 11 metabolites, including citrulline, phenylalanine, and octadecylamine, and negatively correlated with isoproterenol, cortisol, and kynurenic acid. The freezing point was positively correlated with cortisol, isoproterenol, and kynurenic acid and negatively correlated with aldosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, and betaine. Conclusions: This study showed that there were significant differences in the milk composition and metabolites of Xinggao sheep during different lactation periods, highlighting the impact of lactation stage on milk composition and production performance. We recommend developing targeted nutritional strategies based on the specific metabolic profiles of different lactation periods to optimize the feeding management and nutritional regulation of Xinggao sheep. Full article

Food safety hazards induce diverse cellular damages including DNA damage, oxidative stress, proteotoxic stress, and membrane disruption, ultimately contributing to various human diseases. Conventional toxicity assays, while effective, are often resource-intensive and lack the capacity to distinguish among these different damage types, thereby limiting insight into toxic responses and the development of effective strategies for targeted risk mitigation. Here, we constructed a panel of Escherichia coli whole-cell biosensors capable of distinguishing distinct categories of cellular damage. Specifically, an optimized RecA-LexA-based DNA damage biosensor that precisely controls the exogenous expression of the transcriptional repressor LexA achieved a 35.5% reduction in baseline signal and a 36.6-fold induction of fluorescence. In parallel, systematic promoter screening identified P_fpr, P_katG, P_grpE, and P_fabA as effective modules for constructing oxidative, proteotoxic, and membrane stress biosensors. These biosensors exhibited high specificity and sensitivity, generating dose-dependent responses to model toxicants and enabling discrimination of cellular damage induced by typical hazards such as norfloxacin and ciprofloxacin. Notably, the DNA damage biosensor detected norfloxacin with a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.3 ng/mL in standard solution and 3.0 ng/mL in milk, comparable to that of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Together, our work not only provides a versatile, cost-effective, and sensitive tool for assessing diverse cellular damages induced by food safety hazards, but also demonstrates potential utility for practical food safety monitoring. Full article

With growing consumer demand for functional dairy products, developing yogurts enriched with natural bioactive ingredients has become a research focus. Millet, a traditional cereal rich in polyphenols and dietary fiber, remains understudied in fermented dairy applications. This study evaluated the physicochemical properties, sensory quality, and functional activities of yogurt co-fermented with millet. Millet liquid, pre-treated through gelatinization and α-amylase liquefaction, was co-fermented with milk at addition ratios of 40% and 60% (w/w). The results indicated that millet liquid increased Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. Bulgaricus viability (8.55–8.58 log CFU/g vs. 8.26 log CFU/g in the control), improved viscosity (up to 1.0–1.6-fold higher than the control), enhanced texture properties (51–65-fold increase in springiness, 4.3–4.6-fold higher chewiness), and reduced syneresis (18.6–49.2% lower than the control). Sensory evaluation revealed superior flavor and sweetness in millet-enriched yogurt, achieving significantly higher scores than plain yogurt (p < 0.05). Functionally, the 60% millet yogurt showed 77.8% and 84.3% higher DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging capacities, respectively. Additionally, it suppressed DSS-induced inflammatory cytokine secretion in Caco-2 cells (27.2–69.7% inhibition of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β). The improved antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities may be attributed to polyphenol release from millet. This work highlights the potential of millet–milk co-fermentation for developing yogurts with enhanced texture, sensory appeal, and bioactive properties. Full article

Young child formula (YCF) products are important sources of nutrients for children 1–3 years of age. Salt equilibria and protein glycation are two of the crucial aspects affecting nutritional properties and digestive behaviors of YCF, but detailed insights into these two aspects of YCF products remains limited. This study analyzed the distribution of salts and the level of protein glycation in 25 commercial YCF products from the retail market in China. The YCF products were reconstituted (12 g of powder per 100 g of water) and the distribution of calcium and phosphorus between the sedimentable (at 200× g), protein-associated and soluble (10 kDa-permeable) fractions were determined. Blocked lysine and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural were analyzed using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Varying proportions of calcium (3.0–39.3%) and phosphorus (1.2–29.8%) were sedimentable for the products. Notable proportions of calcium (28.9–62.7%) and phosphorus (27.4–57.9%) were associated with the proteins. The remainder of the calcium (24.9–41.4%) and phosphorus (34.2–62.1%) were soluble. When expressing the protein-associated calcium as a function of casein, i.e., casein mineralization, large differences (~1.7 fold) were found among products. Variation in blocked lysine (7.4–19.2% of total lysine) and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural contents (3.0–7.0 mg/100 g protein) among products was also observed, suggesting notable differences in heat-load during processing. This study revealed notable variation in salt distribution and protein glycation among the YCF products. These findings underscore the critical need for manufacturers to optimize formulation and processing approaches, e.g., using milk with a low level of casein mineralization and using milk protein sources as concentrated liquid rather than powder to reduce protein glycation, to improve nutritional properties of the products. Full article

Two HPLC-based analytical methods, one with DAD and the other with an FLD detector, were developed and validated for the simultaneous analysis of B₁, B₂, and B₆ vitamins, both in pharmaceutical gummies and in gastric and intestinal fluids (with water or milk or orange juice). For the detection of B₁ by fluorometry, a pre-column oxidation/derivatization process was accomplished in the presence of B₂ and B₆ vitamins. The methods were performed on an Aqua column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 mm) at 40 °C, with isocratic elution (70% NaH₂PO₄ buffer pH 4.95 and 30% methanol) and a flow rate of 0.9 mL/min. Both were validated according to ICH specifications in terms of linearity (R² > 0.999), accuracy (% Mean Recovery 100 ± 3%) and precision (%RSD < 3.23). For the analysis of the samples, a stability study (in diluents, pH and fluids) was conducted, while for their purification two different extraction procedures, a liquid/solid for the gummies (%Recovery > 99.8%) and a Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) for the Gastrointestinal (G.I.) fluids, (%Recovery 100 ± 5%) were developed. Finally, to investigate whether the co-administration of B-complex with water, orange juice or milk plays a significant role in their release from gummies, a three-phase in vitro digestion protocol was applied. The results did not show significant differences with a slight superiority in the release of B₂ and B₆ with water, while B₁ with orange juice. Full article

Accurate assessment of protein content in Foods for Special Medical Purposes (FSMPs) is critical for patients with chronic kidney disease, who require tightly regulated protein intake. This study aimed to develop and apply a rapid, low-volume, and reproducible microchip-based gel electrophoresis method for analyzing total nitrogen (TN) content and electrophoretic profiles in FSMPs. Products of different consistencies (powder, liquid, yoghurt-like) were tested to evaluate the influence of common additives (e.g., milk proteins, stabilizers, sweeteners) on TN levels and protein patterns. The results revealed considerable variation in fractions among brands, largely attributable to additive composition. Notably, TN levels often exceeded the declared protein content, potentially leading to unintended nitrogen overconsumption in clinical settings. Statistical analysis identified significant TN differences between infant and adult FSMPs in liquid formulations, while powdered forms showed no such distinction. These findings highlight the clinical importance of precise analytical monitoring, as discrepancies between measured TN and labeled protein content could compromise dietary management in vulnerable populations. The proposed method provides a reliable tool for FSMP quality control and supports safer nutritional planning in therapeutic diets. Full article

Functional beverages are increasingly sought as components of a healthy diet, and goat milk offers a nutritious base with unique sensory attributes. This study aimed to develop a novel fermented goat milk beverage enriched with spent coffee grounds (SCG) extract, utilizing SCG’s high natural antioxidant content to improve nutritional and functional properties. SCG was extracted via aqueous solid–liquid extraction and lyophilized; its extract was incorporated into goat milk–fructose blends at 0%, 1%, and 2% (w/v). Analyses included physicochemical characterization (pH, acidity, fat, and protein), total phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity via DPPH assay, alongside consumer sensory evaluation for acceptance and purchase intent. Results demonstrated that higher SCG extract levels significantly increased pH, phenolic concentrations, and radical scavenging activity while reducing titratable acidity. The 2% SCG formulation achieved the highest overall, taste, and aftertaste acceptance and purchase intention. These findings suggest that SCG-enriched goat dairy beverages are feasible functional foods with enhanced antioxidant properties and consumer appeal, promoting valorization of coffee by-products. Full article

Phospholipids (PLs) are a group of biomolecules found in the milk fat globule membranes (MFGMs). Recently, MFGM phospholipids have attracted increasing amounts of attention due to their unique composition, stability, and potential health benefits, including protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease, hypercholesterolemia, and certain types of cancer. Although buffalo milk is the second most commonly produced milk and has high nutritional value, few studies have focused on the properties of buffalo MFGM. This study investigates the PLs composition of buffalo milk and related dairy by-products (whey and buttermilk). Milk and whey were collected from two dairy farms (A—small and B—big) to produce mozzarella buffalo cheese (high-pasteurization milk for GDO production and low for local); while buttermilk was obtained from a butter-making farm. Phospholipids were purified by a solid-phase extraction method and then identified by high-performance liquid chromatography with an evaporative light-scattering detector (HPLC/ELSD). Five classes of phospholipids [phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylinositol (PI), phosphatidylserine (PS), and sphingomyelin (SM)] were identified. The thermal process of milk did not significantly affect the PLs milk. However, local whey showed a higher concentration of total PLs than GDO, which was mainly represented by PE followed by PC content. Farm A exhibited higher PL content than B, particularly with a greater concentration of SM. Buttermilk showed the lowest PLs content. These findings offer valuable insights for the dairy industry and related applications, contributing to the valorization of buffalo dairy products. Full article

Liquid storage is an important tool used to prolong fresh semen shelf-life while protecting spermatozoa from damage, conserving their overall functionality, and ensuring better fertility than frozen semen from sheep. The increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during sperm storage leads to a decline in sperm quality, particularly with regard to sperm nuclear DNA damage and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). This study evaluated the effect of storing Sarda ram semen at 15 °C for 7 h on its redox status, motility, morphology, acrosome integrity, ATP content, mitochondrial potential membrane, and in vivo fertility after artificial insemination. Two different extenders were compared: a lab-made skimmed milk (SM)-based extender and a commercial extender (OviXcell^®, IMV-Technologies, France). Lower ROS levels in the SM (p < 0.001) indicated that its oxidative status was better maintained compared to the commercial extender (CE). Antioxidant defenses (total antioxidant capacity, TEAC; superoxide dismutase, SOD; total thiols) were higher in the SM (p < 0.01) than in the CE. SM also had higher MMP (p < 0.05), acrosome integrity (p < 0.05), ATP content (p < 0.01), and in vivo fertilizing capacity (p < 0.05) compared to the CE, which indicated higher semen quality. In conclusion, the SM extender, while maintaining a better oxidative/antioxidant balance, ensured higher semen quality after 7 h of storage at 15 °C in vitro compared to the CE. Full article

Background/Objectives: Infants admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) face challenges in achieving successful oral feedings. During oral feedings, these infants commonly present with suck–swallow–breathe incoordination, with approximately 30% developing dysphagia, leading to feeding aversion, prolonged hospitalization, and increased parental stress. Cold liquid feeding has demonstrated benefits in improving feeding safety in adults with dysphagia; however, its application in neonates is relatively limited. This study aimed to examine global neonatal feeding practices, with a specific emphasis on cold milk feeding as an intervention for dysphagia. Methods: A cross-sectional global electronic survey was distributed via professional society listservs and closed online professional group forums targeting neonatal providers and feeding therapists from June 2023 to June 2024. The survey assessed institutional feeding protocols, oral feeding practices, and the use of cold milk for infants with dysphagia. Responses were analyzed descriptively. Results: A total of 210 complete responses were received from level IV (51%), level III (42%), and level II (5%) NICUs. While 30% of the respondents were aware of cold milk feeding as a dysphagia intervention, only 15% of the total respondents reported using it in practice. Among the 32 institutions implementing cold milk practices, only one had an established protocol. Additionally, 72% reported having a feeding protocol in place, often incorporating cue-based tools. Most respondents (87.5%) did not allow oral feeding during nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP), whereas 78% permitted it during high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) support. Conclusions: Although the awareness of cold milk feeding in neonates is increasing, its implementation remains limited and lacks standardization. Significant variability exists in oral feeding practices, particularly regarding feeding during respiratory support. This underscores the need for further research and evidence-based guidelines to ensure safe and consistent care for preterm infants. Full article

The complex chemical composition of certain color stains on textiles requires an optimal proportion of thermal and chemical action in the Sinner cycle of the washing process. In this study, both factors were analyzed by varying the composition of the liquid detergent, bleach, and ozone at temperatures of 30 °C, 40 °C, 60 °C, 75 °C, and 90 °C. Standard cotton fabrics stained with tea, red wine, and blood/milk/ink were selected as monitors, which were evaluated before and after the washing process by spectral parameters. The data sets and their interrelationships were evaluated by a cluster analysis (CA) and ANOVA. An unstained standard cotton fabric was selected as a reference for qualification of the sanitation effect. The stain removal effects showed a selective influence of ozone in the washing processes under the investigated conditions, including the synergy of standard materials—stain monitors and different Sinner cycle factors. The most effective sanitation was achieved in processes using formulations with higher concentrations of liquid detergent (D) and bleaching agents (BA) across all tested temperatures. A lower ozone concentration in combination with lower concentrations of detergents and bleaching agents in washing processes at 30 °C and 40 °C also contributed positively to the effect on sanitation. Full article

Among the craft recipes for artisans collected in the 4th-century Egyptian documents the Leyden and Stockholm papyri, there is one calling for adding animal milk to orchil for wool dyeing. To understand the rationale for this practice, wool yarns were dyed with and without goat milk added to orchil dyebaths, each made using lichens from three different sources. The results showed orchil containing milk dyed yarns a noticeably deeper red hue. The colorants extracted from the dyed yarns were analyzed by liquid chromatography-diode-array-detector-mass spectrometry to assess the relative amounts of nine identifiable orceins. The data showed that the yarns dyed with milk gave extracts exhibiting several fold more α-aminoorcein and α-hydroxyorcein, with only small differences in the other seven. Scanning electron microscopic analysis of a representative pair of dyed yarns showed that milk promoted surface changes in the fiber that may indicate increased cutaneous damage. Hypotheses for the milk’s effects on orchil dyeing were proposed that included the formation of milk–protein complexes with the two enriched orceins that possibly enhanced wool binding and/or better wool uptake of free and/or complexed orceins due to biodegradation of the wool’s surface cuticle caused by microbial growth promoted by the addition of milk. Full article