Commercial Basal Diet Research Articles

Influence of caffeic acid and Bacillus coagulans supplementation on growth, digestive enzymes, immune response, and antioxidant gene expression in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and its resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila infection

Present study aimed to investigate the efficacy of dietary supplementation with caffeic acid and Bacillus coagulans on growth performance, digestive enzymes, and immunity of common carp (Cyprinus carpio), and also fish resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila. Fish (21.0 ± 0.5 g) divided into four groups: control group (CD, commercial basal diet), caffeic acid (CA, 5 g/kg feed), B. coagulans (BC, 2×107 CFU/g feed), and CA+BC (5 g/kg + 2×107 CFU/g feed) for 8 weeks, followed by a 14-day challenge with A. hydrophila. A significant enhancement was obtained in growth performance of all treated groups compared to CD (P < 0.05). Also, feed conversion ratio was significantly reduced in treated fish compared to CD group (P < 0.05). Fish of BC and CA+BC groups revealed an increase in activity of amylase, lipase, protease, trypsin, and chymotrypsin in the intestinal tissue. In addition, amylase, lipase, protease, and trypsin in CA group exhibited a higher activity than CD (P < 0.05). A lower decrease in aspartate aminotransferase and a higher increase in alkaline phosphatas were observed in BC and CA+BC groups than CD group (P < 0.05). Values of total protein, total immunoglobulin, lysozyme activity, and alternative complement pathway (ACH50) were higher in sera of BC and CA+BC groups than CD (P < 0.05). Additionally, expression of genes related to lysozyme, IL-1β, IL-8, TNF-α, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in liver tissues of treatment groups were upregulated better than CD (P < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant reduction in mortality was observed in treatment groups compared to CD under the A. hydrophila challenge. These results exhibited that including a combination of caffeic acid and B. coagulans as functional dietary supplements in diet favors common carp health status and growth and, thus, can be recommended in the fish diet.

Effectiveness of lycopene dietary enrichment for growth performance, digestive enzymes, blood health, immunity, and antioxidant status of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) against chronic glyphosate toxicity

For food safety challenges, sustainable aquaculture emerges as a significant source in recent years; however, despite its potential, the industry still facing challenges, notably the exposure of cultured animals to pesticidal pollution. This pollution originating from agricultural practices that can enter aquaculture system directly: to integrated-agriculture aquaculture practices, or indirectly via soil leakage. Current research based on glyphosate (GLY) toxicity and its amelioration by lycopene (LYC). Four fish groups used for six-weeks experiment in which four groups were used. Control group (CL) was fed with basal commercial diet only without any LYC and GLY exposure; 2) LYC group: exposed to LYC supplemented diet (15 mg/kg per fish diet); 3) GLY group: exposed to glyphosate only (1/5th of 96 h LC50: 0.0892 mg/L) with basal commercial diet, and; 4) GLY + LYC group: exposed to both lycopene supplemented diet (15 mg/kg per fish diet) and glyphosate (1/5th of 96 h LC50: 0.0892 mg/L). GLY observed to decrease growth parameters and feed utilization whereas, lycopene ameliorated growth rate (WG, SGR, HSI, CF) and feeding utilization (FCR) as compared to the control group. Also, GLY induced toxicity within hematobiochemical parameters with alleviation by LYC supplementation. GLY induced cytotoxicity was observed within RBCs as lobbing, notching, vacuolation, blebbing, micronuclei, and condensation. Increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were observed by GLY exposure. Also, there is observed reduction in antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT, SOD, POD, TPC and GSH) upon GLY exposure. Lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde: MDA), 8-OHdG (8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine) and DIY (dityrosine) observed to increase by GLY toxicity. There was improvement in immune responses; increased AChE (acetylcholinesterase) activity, lysozyme content, ACP (acid phosphatase), NBT (nitro blue tetrazolium), NO (nitric oxide) and IgM levels (immunoglobulin M) and digestive enzyme activities (protease, lipase and amylase) observed by LYC supplemented diet. Taken together, LYC supplementation observed to alleviate GLY induced oxidative stress and cytotoxicity with improved immunity, digestive actions and blood health within C. carpio. Therefore, dietary supplementation with lycopene can protect common carp from the harmful effects by glyphosate within agri-integrated aquaculture practices, so suggesting it as potential feed additive.

Dietary guanidinoacetate reduces spaghetti meat myopathy risk in the breast muscle of broiler chickens

The global demand for white chicken meat along with the increase in the occurrence of growth-related breast muscle myopathies (BMMs) [namely white striping (WS), wooden breast (WB), and spaghetti meat (SM)] highlights the need for solutions that will improve meat quality while maintaining the high productivity of modern broilers. Guanidinoacetate (GAA), a precursor of creatine, is used as a feed additive and has previously shown the potential to affect the quality of breast meat. This study investigated growth performance, meat quality and the risk ratio for the development of BMMs in broilers assigned to two dietary treatments: control (CON) group, fed a commercial basal diet, and supplemented GAA (sGAA) group, receiving the control diet supplemented on top with 0.06% GAA. Growth performance indicators such as BW, daily weight gain, daily feed intake, feed conversion ratio and cumulative feed conversion ratio were recorded on a pen basis. As a trait affecting animal welfare, the occurrence of foot pad dermatitis was also evaluated. At day 43, birds were processed, and breasts were scored for the incidence and severity of BMMs (n = 166 and 165 in CON and sGAA groups, respectively). Quality traits (ultimate pH, colour) and technological properties (i.e., drip and cooking losses, marinade uptake, shear force, and oxidation levels of the lipid and the protein fractions) of breast meat were assessed in both treatments on samples not showing any macroscopic sign of BMMs (n = 20 breast fillets per group). Data of myopathy risk ratio were analysed as the risk for each group to develop WS, WB, and SM myopathies. Our results show that while sGAA and control groups did not differ significantly in growth performance, a remarkably beneficial effect of GAA was observed on the incidence of BMMs with significantly reduced risk of sGAA group to develop SM myopathy. The risk of sGAA group to develop SM was 30% lower compared to CON (P = 0.028). Finally, a significantly lower drip loss was observed in sGAA in comparison with CON (1.78 vs 2.48%, P = 0.020). Together, our results show that the inclusion of 0.06% GAA in feed can improve the water-holding capacity of meat and reduce the risk to develop SM myopathy without compromising the performance of broilers.

Response of Nile Tilapia reared at low dissolved oxygen level and challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila to dietary supplementation with different levels of Anise essential oil

This work was conducted to evaluate the effect of anise essential oil as a feed additive on growth performance and immunity of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) exposed to two different challenges; reduced levels of dissolved oxygen (LDO) and/or infection with Aeromonas hydrophila. Juveniles were randomly distributed to six replicated experimental groups; groups 1, 2, and 3 were reared at normal levels of dissolved oxygen (NDO) (5 – 6 mg/l) and received 0, 1, and 2 ml/kg diet of anise essential oil, respectively. In addition, groups 4, 5, and 6 which were reared on LDO levels (2 – 3 mg/l) and received the same concentrations (conc.) of anise oil (0, 1, and 2 ml/kg diet, respectively). All groups were kept at a density of 30 fish/m3 and fed on a commercial basal diet (30% crude protein) for 60 days consecutively at rate of 3% body weight. Results cleared an enhancement of growth parameters of fish treated with anise oil, where final body weight, weight gain and average daily gain were increased and feed conversion ratio was decreased significantly than control groups even under hypoxic conditions. Moreover, groups that received anise oil showed stronger immunity against A. hydrophila infection synchronized with developed antioxidative capacity, where results indicated a significant increase in WBCs in all treated groups and globulin in a dose-dependent manner under hypoxic conditions. Additionally, using oil at a concentration of 2 ml/kg diet considerably raised superoxide dismutase (SOD) level under normal and hypoxic conditions and lowered the level of nitric oxide (NO) after challenge with bacteria at a concentration of 1 ml/kg diet at NDO and at 2 ml/kg diet at LDO.

PSXIII-7 Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Lactobacillus Rhamnosus on Blood Profiles, Intestinal Morphology, Immune Responses, and Gene Expression of Tight Junction Proteins and Cytokines of Weaned Pigs

Abstract Dietary probiotics were used in the animal feeds because of the beneficial effect of improving gut health and immune responses as one of the potential alternatives to antibiotics. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus (ILDONG Bioscience Co. Ltd., Pyeongtaek, Republic of Korea) on blood profiles, small intestinal morphology, immune responses, and gene expression of tight junction proteins and inflammatory cytokines in ileum of weaned pigs. A total of 40 weaned pigs [6.21 ± 0.55 kg of initial body weight (BW); 28-day old] were allotted to 2 dietary treatments (4 pigs/pen; 5 replicates/treatment) in a randomized complete block design (block: initial BW) and fed for 4 weeks. Dietary treatments were 1) a commercial basal nursery diet (CON), and 2) CON + 0.02% Lactobacillus rhamnosus IDCC 3201 (PRO). The blood samples were collected from randomly selected 1 pig per pen on day 1, 7, 14, and 28 for blood profiles and immune responses. On the last day of experiment, the pigs were euthanized to collect duodenal, jejunal, and ileal segments for intestinal morphology and gene expression analysis. Intestinal morphology was measured villus height, width, area, crypt depth, villus height to crypt depth ratio, and number of goblet cells by hematoxylin and eosin staining method. The blood profiles were measured by using an automated hematology analyzer. The serum samples were used to measure concentrations of cytokines and cortisol by using porcine immunoassay ELISA kits. The gene expression of tight junction proteins and cytokines were measured by qRT-PCR. Data were analyzed by PROC GLM procedure of SAS. Experimental unit was a pen. Statistical model for blood profiles, immune responses, and intestinal morphology included dietary treatment as a main effect and initial BW as a covariate. The t-test was used for ileal gene expression. Pigs fed PRO had lower (P &amp;lt; 0.05) platelet level, crypt depth in duodenum and ileum, serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 than those fed CON. The pigs fed PRO downregulated (P &amp;lt; 0.05) TNF-α and interleukin-8 genes compared with those fed CON, but upregulated (P &amp;lt; 0.05) claudin-1 and claudin-2 genes. In conclusion, probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus supplementation in nursery diet improved gut health through modulating blood profiles and immune responses, enhancing intestinal morphology, and regulating tight junction protein genes expression in ileum of weaned pigs.

PSXIII-11 Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Lactobacillus Rhamnosus on Growth Performance, Frequency of Diarrhea, Nutrient Digestibility, and Blood Biochemical Parameters of Weaned Pigs

Abstract The swine industry has to find ways to make diets more efficient in terms of growth performance and swine intestinal health. Thus, this study was carried out to verify the effect of dietary supplementation of the probiotic, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, on growth performance, frequency of diarrhea, nutrient digestibility, and blood biochemical parameters of weaned pigs. A total of 40 weaned pigs [6.21 ± 0.55 kg of initial body weight (BW)] were assigned to 2 dietary treatments (4 pigs/pen; 5 replicates/treatment) in a randomized complete block design (block: initial BW). This experiment was performed for 4 weeks. Dietary treatments were a commercial basal nursery diet (CON) and CON supplemented with 0.02% Lactobacillus rhamnosus IDCC 3201 (PRO; ILDONG Bioscience Co., Ltd., Pyeongtaek, Republic of Korea). Average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake, and gain to feed ratio (G:F) were measured on day 1, 7, 14, and 28. The frequency of diarrhea was measured for the first 2 weeks after weaning. Diarrhea score of each pen was visually estimated from 1 to 5 (1 = normal feces, 2 = moist feces, 3 = mild diarrhea, 4 = severe diarrhea, and 5 = watery diarrhea). For the last week of experimental period, pigs were fed respective dietary treatments containing 0.2% chromium oxide. Fecal samples from randomly selected one pig per pen were collected daily by rectal palpation for the last 3 days. The samples from the diet and feces of each treatment were used to measure the apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter (DM), energy (EN), and crude protein (CP). Serum samples were collected for blood biochemical parameters. Growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and blood biochemical parameters were analyzed by the General Linear Model of SAS. The frequency of diarrhea was analyzed by the Chi-square test. The experimental unit was a pen. Statistical model for growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and biochemical parameters included dietary treatment as a main effect and initial BW as a covariate. Pigs fed PRO had greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) ADG and G:F than those fed CON from day 1 to 7, and The PRO had greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) ADG than CON from day 15 to 28. The PRO increased ADG during overall the experimental period (P &amp;lt; 0.10), nutrient digestibility of DM, EN, and CP (P &amp;lt; 0.05) compared with CON. However, no differences were found on frequency of diarrhea and blood biochemical parameters between dietary treatments. In conclusion, the dietary supplementation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus improved growth performance and nutrient digestibility.

PSXIII-4 Effects of Probiotic Lactobacillus Rhamnosus on Intestinal Morphology, Blood Profiles, Immune Responses, and Ileal Gene Expression of Weaned Pigs

Abstract Probiotics are considered as a potential non-antibiotic feed additive that may improve intestinal health of pigs. However, there is limited information on potential mechanism of probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus. The study was carried out to evaluate effects of probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus on intestinal morphology, blood profiles, immune responses, and ileal gene expression of weaned pigs. In a randomized complete block design [block: initial body weight (BW)], a total of 100 weaned pigs (7.99 ± 0.85 kg of average initial BW; 28 days of age) were assigned to two dietary treatments (5 pigs/pen; 10 replicates/treatment). Dietary treatments were fed for 4 weeks: 1) a commercial basal nursery diet (CON), and 2) CON + 0.02% probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus IDCC 3201 (PRO). Probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus was obtained from a commercial company (ILDONG Bioscience Co., Ltd., Pyeongtaek, Republic of Korea). Blood was collected from randomly selected one pig per pen on day 1, 7, 14, and 28 for blood profiles and immune responses. On the final day of study, pigs were euthanized to collect each part of small intestine for measuring intestinal morphology and ileal gene expression. Measurements were 1) villus height, width, and area, crypt depth, villus height to crypt depth ratio (VH:CD), and number of goblet cells by the hematoxylin and eosin staining method, 2) number of white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), and hematocrit (HCT) by an automated hematology analyzer calibrated for porcine blood, 3) immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgA, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and C-reactive protein in serum by the ELISA kits, and 4) ileal gene expression of tight junction-related proteins and inflammatory cytokines by qRT-PCR. Data were analyzed using PROC GLM of SAS. Experimental unit was the pen. Statistical model for intestinal morphology, blood profiles, and immune responses included dietary treatment as a main effect and initial BW as a covariate. The t-test was used for ileal gene expression. The PRO increased number of goblet cells in duodenum (P &amp;lt; 0.05) and VH:CD in ileum (P &amp;lt; 0.10) compared with CON. Pigs fed PRO had decreased HCT on day 7 (P &amp;lt; 0.10), WBC on day 28 (P &amp;lt; 0.05), and serum IgA concentrations on day 28 (P &amp;lt; 0.05) than those fed CON, but RBC on day 7 and 14 were greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05). The PRO upregulated (P &amp;lt; 0.05) claudin-3, occludin, tight junction protein-1 genes in ileum compared with CON, but TNF-α, interferon-α, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 genes were downregulated (P &amp;lt; 0.05). In conclusion, addition of probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus in the nursery diet improved gut health via enhancing intestinal morphology and upregulating ileal tight junction-related protein genes, and modified blood parameters and ileal inflammatory cytokine genes.

Influence of lactic-acid bacteria feed supplementation on free amino acid levels in serum and feces of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum 1792)

IntroductionThe influence of intestinal microbiota, particularly lactic-acid bacteria, on digestion and nutrient metabolic activities has been extensively studied. In this research, we investigated the effects of supplementing the feed of rainbow trout (O. mykiss) with P. acidilactici or L. lactis probiotics. A Control group without probiotic supplementation was also included. The study aimed to evaluate growth, feed conversion indices, free amino acid levels in serum and feces, and the relative gene expression of amino acid solute carrier transporters (SLC).MethodsRainbow trout weighing 73.9±10 g were fed with a basal commercial diet supplemented with mono-strains of P. acidilactici or L. lactis at a dosage of 5 x 108 CFU per gram of feed for 60 days. The trout were reared in 100-liter tanks with independent closed recirculation systems, with a water replacement rate of 80% of the total volume daily and a controlled temperature of 15 ± 0.3 °C. The proximate composition of the basal diet consisted of crude protein (49.8%), fat (32.1%), fiber (1.31%), ash (13%), and moisture (8.3%) on a dry matter basis. The diet was provided at a rate of 2% of bodyweight per day.ResultsNo significant differences (p &amp;gt; 0.05) were observed in growth and feed conversion indices between the experimental groups. However, significant differences in free amino acid levels in feces and serum samples (p ≤ 0.05) were observed. The P. acidilactici group exhibited significantly higher levels of glutamate, lysine, proline, and tyrosine in feces samples, and higher levels of arginine, iso/leucine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, and valine in serum samples compared to the Control group. Additionally, the supplemented probiotic groups showed significant downregulation (p ≤ 0.05) of theslc6a19 and slc7a9 genes, which encode transporters for neutral and cationic amino acids.DiscussionThe autochthonous rainbow trout strain, P. acidilactici, demonstrated more pronounced effects on amino acid levels in feces and serum compared to the non-autochthonous L. lactis strain. However, the increased amino acid levels, particularly in the serum, resulting from P. acidilactici supplementation, did not lead to improved trout growth or feed conversion. Nonetheless, lactic-acid bacteria supplementation induced measurable metabolic effects, as evidenced by elevated levels of specific amino acids in the serum and feces.Future research should focus on evaluating these probiotic effects using specialized diets and considering the observed metabolic effects in this study.

Effects of herbal supplements on milk production quality and specific blood parameters in heat-stressed early lactating cows.

The present study explored the influence of supplemental herbal mixtures on cow milk production, quality, and blood parameters in dairy cows under high ambient temperatures. Thirty Holstein cows were randomly assigned into three experimental groups of 10 each. The first control group was supplied with the commercial basal diet, whereas two treatment groups were provided with the commercial basal diet supplemented with 50 and 100 g/head/day of the herbal mixture, respectively. The results showed that the mixture of herbal supplementation did not influence weekly milk production. Milk total fat, triglyceride, and total protein values were not affected (p < 0.05) in cows fed on basal diets supplemented with herbal mixture; however, milk cholesterol was decreased significantly by 100 mg/head/day of the herbal mixture. On the other hand, lactose has increased significantly by adding 100 mg/head/day of herbal mixture. Furthermore, the total cholesterol level in serum was decreased by adding 100 mg/head/day of the herbal mixture, while plasma prolactin, cortisol, GOT, and GPT were unaffected. Regarding fatty acids (C18, C18:1 (c9), 18:1 (c11), 18:2 (c9, c12), 18:2 (t9, t12), and CLA (c9, t11)), there was no significant variation between the groups. Meanwhile, both C19:00 and 18:3 (c6, c9, and c12) were noticeably higher (p < 0.05) in the group that received 100gm, followed by 50 mg, compared to the control. In conclusion, the supplement with a herbal mixture positively affected milk quality by decreasing total cholesterol and increasing lactose, milk fatty acid profile by increasing unsaturated fatty acids content, and plasma cholesterol levels.

Effect of Anise Essential Oil Supplementation on Growth Performance of Nile Tilapia Reared at Low Dissolved Oxygen Level

Medicinal herbs are the most utilized and validated feed additives in the aquaculture industry. This study investigated the dietary effects of anise (Pimpinella anisum L.) in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Three sets of diets were prepared by spraying Anise essential oil on a commercial basal diet (30% crude protein) at the rate of 0 (control), 1, and 2 mL/kg diet. The experimental groups were assigned a 3 × 2 factorial design (3 level of anise oil; 0, 1, 2 ml) × 2 levels of dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration. The experiment was assembled as a control no anise (high DO), 1 ml + (high DO), 2 ml + (high DO), Control 0 ml (low DO), 1 ml anise (low DO), and 2 ml anise (low DO). Fish were fed the diets for 60 days consecutively at 3% body weight. The feed intake was recorded daily by subtracting the remaining feed in the containers from the total amount of feed before feeding. The results showed a marked enhancement in the growth performance and reduced feed conversion ratio in fish-fed anise compared to the control group. The carcass composition showed that crude protein was meaningfully by 2.5 and 3.5 g anise per kg diet. In conclusion, incorporating anise into the diet of Nile Tilapia is suggested to enhance performances and well-being.

EFFECTS OF DIETARY YEAST Β-1.3/1.6-GLUCANS ON LIPID PEROXIDATION IN THE HEPATIC AND CARDIAC TISSUES OF RAINBOW TROUT (ONCORHYNCHUS MYKISS WALBAUM), EUROPIAN WHITEFISH (COREGONUS LAVARETUS L.), AND GRAYLING (THYMALLUS THYMALLUS L.)

Dietary β-glucans may be a useful tool to prime the host immune system and increase resistance against invading pathogens as the β-glucans influence the immune response. This prompted us to investigate the effects of dietary yeast β-1,3/1,6-D-glucans supplemented for a 14-day feeding period on liver and cardiac function and the oxidative mechanisms underlying these effects. We assessed relevant lipid peroxidation in the hepatic and cardiac tissue of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), European whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus), and graylings (Thymallus thymallus) after a 14-day period of supplementation with β-glucans. Thirty healthy grayling weighing 34.9 ± 1.9 g, thirty healthy rainbow trout weighing 55.9 ± 2.1 g, and thirty healthy European whitefish weighing 43.3 ± 2.7 g were used in the experiments. The fish were fed with a commercial basal diet at a rate of 1.5% body weight four times a day. After acclimation, the fish were randomly divided into six groups. The groups were fed for 14 days as follows: the control groups comprising grayling (n = 15), rainbow trout (n = 15), and European whitefish (n = 15) received a control basal diet and the β-glucan groups were fed with the Yestimun® food product at a dose of 1% of the basal feed (with 85% of β-1.3/1.6-glucans, Leiber GmbH, Bramsche, Germany). The basal feed was supplemented with 1% of Yestimun® powder (dose: 1 kg per 99 kg, w/w). This insoluble and highly purified preparation contains natural polysaccharides, e.g. β-1,3/1,6-D-glucans derived from Spent Brewers’ Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae). Yeast cell walls typically contain approximately 30% of β-glucans of dry weight. Our results showed that feeding with low doses of β-glucans induced a decrease in TBARS levels in the hepatic and cardiac tissues of rainbow trout, andEuropean whitefish. Similarly, 14 days of feeding graylings with low doses of β-glucans resulted in a decrease in the TBARS levels both in the hepatic and cardiac tissues. This study confirms that dietary β-glucan is beneficial for promoting growth and enhancing antioxidant capacity against oxidative stress in rainbow trout, European whitefish, and graylings. Indeed, we cautiously hypothesized that feeding low β-glucans doses may help to boost antioxidant function, especially by the decrease of biomarkers of lipid peroxidation in the hepatic and cardiac tissues of these fish. Keywords: β-glucans, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, Thymallus thymallus, Oncorhynchus mykiss, Coregonus lavaretus

OXIDATIVE STRESS BIOMARKERS IN THE CARDIAC AND HEPATIC TISSUES OF RAINBOW TROUT (ONCORHYNCHUS MYKISS WALBAUM) FED THE Β-GLUCAN-SUPPLEMENTED DIET

Treatment with β-glucans has been found to stimulate various aspects of immune responses such as resistance to infections and resistance to environmental stress. The effects of dietary β-glucans on the general health status of rainbow trout, as well as oxidative stress biomarkers in different tissues specifically should be explored. This prompted us to investigate the effects of dietary yeast β-1,3/1,6-D-glucans supplemented for a 14-day feeding period on liver and heart function and the oxidative mechanisms underlying these effects. We assessed the levels of lipid peroxidation, derivatives of the oxidatively modified proteins (OMP), and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the hepatic and cardiac tissue of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum) after a 14-day period of oral supplementation with β-glucans. Thirty healthy rainbow trout weighing 55.9 ± 2.1 g were used in the experiments. The fish were fed with a commercial basal diet at a rate of 1.5% body weight four times a day. After acclimation, the fish were randomly divided into two groups. The groups were fed for 14 days as follows: the control group comprising rainbow trout (n = 15) received a control basal diet and the β-glucan group (n = 15) was fed with the Yestimun® food product at a dose of 1% of the basal feed (with 85% of β-1.3/1.6-glucans, Leiber GmbH, Bramsche, Germany). The basal feed was supplemented with 1% of Yestimun® powder (dose: 1 kg per 99 kg, w/w). This insoluble and highly purified preparation contains natural polysaccharides, e.g. β-1,3/1,6-D-glucans derived from Spent Brewers’ Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae). Yeast cell walls typically contain approximately 30% of β-glucans of dry weight. Our results showed that feeding with low doses of β-glucans induced a statistically non-significant decrease in TBARS levels in the hepatic and cardiac tissues of rainbow trout. The feeding with low doses of β-glucans induced non-significant changes in the TAC levels both in the hepatic and cardiac tissues of rainbow trout. Levels of aldehydic and ketonic derivatives of OMP in the cardiac and hepatic tissues of rainbow trout fed the β-glucan-supplemented diet were at the same levels as in the untreated controls. In conclusion, our results unambiguously showed that β-glucan did not induce oxidative stress in the hepatic and cardiac tissues of rainbow trout.

Black Maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) Hydroalcoholic Extract as an Ameliorating Agent against Heat Stress Conditions of V-Line Rabbit Does

Rabbits are sensitive to heat stress (HS) in hot regions due to difficulty in eliminating excess body heat. We evaluated the ameliorating role of black maca hydroalcoholic extract (BMHE) against HS conditions on the productive and reproductive performance of V-line rabbit does. Rabbits were divided into four equal groups (T1–T4), each containing three replicates. T1 received commercial basal diet (BD) only, whereas T2–T4 received BD and 200, 400, and 600 mg BMHE kg−1 body weight (BW) of doe day−1, respectively, administered orally for 1 week before the mating process each month from May to August. HS significantly decreased the BW of rabbits after the weaning period, as well as litter size, and litter weights measured 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after the postnatal period. HS conditions also significantly decreased BW at slaughter as well as all carcass quality parameters. HS led to significantly impaired physiological responses, oxidative status, and reproductive efficiency in exposed rabbits. Orally administered 400 mg BMHE kg−1 BW of doe alleviated all these drastic effects in HS rabbits among all treatments. Thus, oral treatment of 400 mg BMHE kg−1 BW (T3) is a promising ameliorating agent against HS conditions in V-line rabbit does, especially in tropical or subtropical regions.

The Effect of Dietary Fumonisin Exposure on Apparent Ileal Digestibility of Amino Acids in Fattening Pigs

The cellular toxicity of the Fusarium mycotoxin fumonisins (FUMs) has been widely accounted for. However, the ability of FUMs to destroy intestinal functions is an emergence of growing concern. Thus, this experiment ascertained whether dietary FUMs obstruct the apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of crude protein (CP) and amino acids (AAs) in fattening pigs during either short (7 d)- or long (21 d)-term exposure. Ten Danbred fattening pigs (initial body weight (BW) of 67.5 ± 4.1) inserted with a post-valve T-cecum cannula in the terminal ileum were enrolled in the trial. The pigs were randomly divided into a control group fed a basal commercial diet and a group fed in vitro-produced FUMs to provide a 40 mg FUMs/kg-contaminated diet. Titanium dioxide was added at an inclusion rate of 0.5% as an indigestible marker to diets. During two separate periods, ileal digesta were collected for 3 consecutive days for the determination of the AID of CP and the various dispensable and indispensable AAs. Data were subjected to two-way ANOVA of SPSS version 20.0 software using FUMs dose (i = 2; 0 or 40 mg FUMs/ kg feed) and duration (j = 2; short- vs. long-term exposure) as fixed factors. According to our findings, a dietary intake of 40 mg/kg FUMs substantially interfered with the AID of arginine, histidine, and tyrosine (p = 0.003, 0.047, and 0.047, respectively) in terms of the dose and duration interaction effect. In addition, the main duration effect of the AID of histidine was significant (p &lt; 0.001). It is, therefore, conceivable that a dietary dose of a 40 mg/kg FUMs-contaminated diet does not drastically affect CP and AAs digestibility in fattening pigs over a period of 7 or 21 days.

Beta-caryophyllene prevents the defects in trabecular bone caused by Vitamin D deficiency through pathways instated by increased expression of klotho.

AimsThis study investigated the effects of β-caryophyllene (BCP) on protecting bone from vitamin D deficiency in mice fed on a diet either lacking (D-) or containing (D+) vitamin D.MethodsA total of 40 female mice were assigned to four treatment groups (n = 10/group): D+ diet with propylene glycol control, D+ diet with BCP, D-deficient diet with control, and D-deficient diet with BCP. The D+ diet is a commercial basal diet, while the D-deficient diet contains 0.47% calcium, 0.3% phosphorus, and no vitamin D. All the mice were housed in conditions without ultraviolet light. Bone properties were evaluated by X-ray micro-CT. Serum levels of klotho were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.ResultsUnder these conditions, the D-deficient diet enhanced the length of femur and tibia bones (p < 0.050), and increased bone volume (BV; p < 0.010) and trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV; p < 0.010) compared to D+ diet. With a diet containing BCP, the mice exhibited higher BV and bone mineral density (BMD; p < 0.050) than control group. The trabecular and cortical bone were also affected by vitamin D and BCP. In addition, inclusion of dietary BCP improved the serum concentrations of klotho (p < 0.050). In mice, klotho regulates the expression level of cannabinoid type 2 receptor (Cnr2) and fibroblast growth factor 23 (Fgf23) through CD300a. In humans, data suggest that klotho is connected to BMD. The expression of klotho is also associated with bone markers.ConclusionThese data indicate that BCP enhances the serum level of klotho, leading to improved bone properties and mineralization in an experimental mouse model.Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2022;11(8):528–540.

Dietary Supplementation of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) With Panax ginseng Essential Oil: Positive Impact on Animal Health and Productive Performance, and Mitigating Effects on Atrazine- Induced Toxicity

The present study assessed the impact of Panax ginseng essential oil (GEO) supplementation on physiological parameters related to productive performance and health status in Nile tilapia reared under standard conditions and exposed to a sub-lethal atrazine (ATZ) concentration. Fish were allocated into 6 groups: the control group was reared in clean water and fed with a commercial basal diet (CNT), two groups were fed with the basal diet supplemented with two different levels of GEO (GEO1 and GEO2, respectively), one group was intoxicated with 1/5 of ATZ 96-h lethal concentration 50 (1.39 mg/L) (ATZ group), and the remaining two groups were fed with the GEO-supplemented diets and concurrently exposed to 1.39 mg ATZ/L (GEO1+ATZ and GEO2+ATZ, respectively). The experiment lasted for 60 days. GEO supplementation exerted a significantly positive influence on fish growth, feed utilization, and hepatic antioxidant defense systems at both levels of supplementation. ATZ exposure significantly reduced fish survival rates and impaired fish growth and feed utilization, with the lowest final weights, weight gain, total feed intake, and the highest feed conversion ratio being recorded in the ATZ-intoxicated group. ATZ exposure caused significant changes in intestinal digestive enzyme activity (decreased lipase activity), hematological indices (decreased hemoglobin, packed cell volume, erythrocytes, and leukocytes), blood biochemical variables (decreased total proteins, albumin, globulins, and immunoglobulin M; increased total cholesterol, triglycerides, and cortisol), and hepatic oxidative/antioxidant indices (decreased glutathione level, superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme activity and mRNA expression levels, and increased malondialdehyde content). Moreover, in the hepatic tissue of ATZ-intoxicated Nile tilapia, histopathological alterations and upregulated mRNA expression levels of stress- and apoptosis-related genes (Hsp70, caspase 3, and p53) were observed. GEO supplementation in ATZ-treated groups significantly attenuated the aforementioned negative effects, though some parameters did not reach the CNT values. These findings provide further and partly new evidence that sub-lethal ATZ toxicity induces reduced survivability, growth retardation, impaired digestive function, anemia, immunosuppression, hepatic oxidative stress damage, and overall increased stress level in Nile tilapia, and suggest that GEO supplementation may be useful for mitigating this toxicity and provide more general support to the productive performance and health status of this fish species.

Dietary Supplementation of Bile Acids in Tongue Sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis): A Promising Strategy to Improve Hepatic Health Status

A 10-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the beneficial effects of bile acids (BAs) on hepatic health status in tongue sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis). Three experimental diets were prepared with different levels of BA inclusion in the commercial basal diet: control group (CT: 0 mg/kg basal diet), low-level group (BA1: 300 mg/kg basal diet), and high-level group (900 mg/kg basal diet). At the end of the feeding trial, growth performance and survival rate were measured, as well as numerous physiological and biochemical parameters of the liver, including four hepatic function indices, five antioxidant indices, five lipid metabolism parameters, and three digestive enzyme activities. Moreover, the mRNA expression levels of three growth-related genes and three immune-related genes in the liver were assayed. Results showed that growth performance and survival were substantially improved in both low- and high-level BA inclusive groups. Further, the tested liver physiological and biochemical parameters combined with the quantitative real-time PCR results revealed enhanced antioxidant capacity, energy metabolism, digestive ability, and immune response. Finally, these findings provide a wider spectrum of the beneficial effects of dietary BAs on liver health in tongue sole.

Dietary bile acid supplementation reveals beneficial effects on intestinal healthy status of tongue sole (Cynoglossus semiliaevis)

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary bile acids (BAs) on intestinal healthy status of tongue sole in terms of immunity, antioxidant status, digestive ability, mucosal barrier-related genes expression and microbiota. Three experimental diets were prepared with BA levels at 0 mg/kg (CT), 300 mg/kg (BA1) and 900 mg/kg (BA2) in a commercial basal diet. Each diet was fed to three replicates with 120 fish (10.87 ± 0.32 g) in each tank. After an 8-week feeding trial, growth parameters were significantly enhanced in both BAs supplementary groups (P < 0.05), and compared with CT group, survival rate in BA2 group was significantly improved (P < 0.05). Intestinal lysozyme activity and contents of immunoglobulin M and complement 3 were significantly increased in both BAs supplementary groups (P < 0.05), suggesting an enhancement effect on the non-specific immune response. BAs inclusion also significantly improved intestinal antioxidant capabilities by increasing antioxidase activities and decreasing malondialdehyde levels. In addition, compared with CT group, intestinal digestive ability was substantially enhanced as indicated by the significantly increased lipase activity in BA2 group (P < 0.05) and significantly increased amylase activity in BA1 and BA2 groups (P < 0.05). Coincidentally, BAs inclusion significantly upregulated the relative expression of intestinal mucosal barrier-related genes (P < 0.05). Further, dietary BAs distinctly remodeled intestinal microbiota by decreased the abundance of some potential pathogenic bacteria. In conclusion, dietary BAs supplementation is an effective way to improve the intestinal healthy status of tongue sole.

Assessment of Novel Water Applied Prebiotic to Evaluate Gut Barrier Failure and Performance in Two Commercial Trials in Brazil. A Pilot Study With an Economic Perspective.

The present study evaluated the effect of administration of a water applied prebiotic on gut barrier failure (Experiment 1) and performance in broiler chickens under commercial conditions (Experiment 2). Experiment 1, one thousand four hundred and forty day-of-hatch Ross broiler chickens were assigned to one of two experimental groups (n = 30 replicate pens/treatment; n = 24 chicks/pen). Birds in the treated group received the prebiotic orally in the drinking water (0.2ml/bird) on days 3 and 17 of age. The second group served as the untreated control group. On d 18, intestinal samples were analyzed by qRT-PCR to determine the expression of MUC2, IL-8, TGF-β4, and ZO-1. On d 17, d 28, and d 35 blood samples were collected to determine circulating endotoxin levels. On d 28, mucosal intestinal scrapping was collected to measure relative total sIgA levels. At d 42, liver samples were collected to evaluate liver bacterial translocation. In Experiment 2, the prebiotic was evaluated in two commercial trials. Chickens were raised under normal production conditions and fed a 3-phase commercial basal diet with enramycin (7 g/ton). In Trial 1, 8,974,237 broiler chickens were treated with the prebiotic. The prebiotic was administered in the drinking water (0.2 mL/bird) following the manufacture label instructions at day three and seventeen of life. Production parameters were compared to historical information from the company over the same broiler operation and production cycles. For trial 2, 921,411 broiler chickens were treated with the prebiotic as in Trial 1. In Experiment 1, treated chickens showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in mRNA expression of MUC2, TGF-β4, IL-8, ZO-1, and sIgA, but a significant reduction of serum endotoxin levels and incidence of liver lactose positive bacterial translocation when compared to non-treated chickens. In both trials of Experiment 2, a significant reduction in total mortality was observed in the treated chickens when compared with the historical farm data. Economic analysis utilizing the total percent of mortality revealed a $1: $2.50 USD and $1: $4.17 USD return for Trial 1 and Trial 2, respectively. The results suggest that the prebiotic positively influences gastrointestinal integrity and performance.

Quercetin and Egg Metallome.

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of the natural flavonoid quercetin dietary supplementation on the alteration of egg metallome by applying the basic principles of elemental metabolomics. One hundred and ninety-two laying hens were allocated into 4 treatment groups: the control (C) group that was fed with a commercial basal diet and the other experimental groups that were offered the same diet further supplemented with quercetin at 200, 400 and 800 mg per kg of feed (Q2, Q4 and Q8 group, respectively) for 28 days. The diets contained the same vitamin and mineral premix, thus all birds received the same amount of elements since no differences on feed intake existed. The egg elemental profile consisted of As, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sr, V, Zn and was determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Quercetin supplementation altered the elemental profile. Most notably, quercetin altered the element concentrations predominantly in egg shell and albumen. It increased the concentration of Sb while reduced that of Cr and Se in both egg shell and albumen. Moreover, it increased As, Cd in albumen and V in yolk, while compared to the control, reduced As, Cd, Cr, Cu and V and also raised Ca, Fe, Mg and Ni in egg shell. The presence of quercetin led to differentiation of the deposition of certain trace minerals in egg compartments compared to that of hens fed a basal diet, possibly indicating that tailor made eggs for specific nutritional and health requirements could be created in the future.