BW Group Research Articles

37 Supplemented with Yucca Schidigera Extract to Feedlot Cattle Consuming Diets with or Without Monensin

Abstract This experiment compared performance and physiological responses of feedlot cattle receiving a saponin containing feed ingredient manufactured from purified extract of Yucca schidigera [Micro-Aid (MA); DPI Global, Porterville, CA] which replaced or was fed in conjunction with feed-grade antimicrobials. Yearling, Angus-influenced steers (n = 20) arrived at the experimental feedlot on d -19 and a shrunk body weight (BW; 309 ± 4 kg) was immediately recorded. Steers were ranked by BW and allocated to 4 groups of 30 steers each. Groups were housed in of 4 drylot pens equipped with GrowSafe automated feeding systems (4 bunks/pen) during the experiment (d -15 to 69). On d 0 groups were randomly assigned to receive a total mixed ration containing: monensin and tylosin (RT; 360 mg/steer daily from Rumensin and 90 mg/steer daily from Tylan; Elanco Animal Health, Greenfield, IN) and/or 4 g/steer daily of MA in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. During the experimental period non-supplemented (CON) steers received a total mixed ration containing no additives. Individual feed intake was recorded daily, and steer BW was recorded every 28 d and before slaughter. Steers were slaughtered according to BW and slaughter groups were balanced by treatments (36 steers on d 120, 36 steers on d 146, and 48 steers on d 174). Carcass traits were recorded upon slaughter. On d 55 eight rumen-cannulated heifers were housed with yearling steers (1 pair/pen). Pairs rotated among groups every 21 d, resulting in a 4 × 4 Latin Square design (n = 8 per treatment) with a 5-day washout between rotations. Rumen fluid was collected from pairs on d 55, 75, 90,110, 125, 145, 160, and 180 (beginning and end of each 21-day rotation) and pH was recorded immediately after collection. No RT × MA treatment interactions were detected (P > 0.10). Feed intake was decreased (P < 0.01) in steers receiving RT, whereas feed efficiency was greater (P = 0.02) in steers receiving RT. Carcass variables including hot carcass weight, backfat thickness, Longissimus muscle area, marbling, yield grade, and percent of carcasses grading choice or better did not differ among treatments (P ≥ 0.17). Rumen fluid pH was greater (P = 0.04) in steers receiving RT. Steers receiving MA had greater (P = 0.03) rumen fluid pH and decreased (P = 0.04) rumen fluid viscosity. Collectively, supplementing feedlot cattle with Yucca schidigera extract improved rumen pH and viscosity, but failed to impact performance or carcass measures in feedlot cattle.

Red dragon (Hylocereus polyrhizus) fruit peel extract increased the motility and viability of spermatozoa of hypercholesterolemic rats (Rattus norvegicus)

This study aims to determine the effect of red dragon (Hylocereus polyrhizus) fruit peel extract (RDFPE) on spermatozoa motility and viability of hypercholesterolemic rats (Rattus norvegicus) as a model. Twenty male rats were randomly divided into negative control (NC), positive control (PC), treatment 1 (T1), treatment 2 (T2), and treatment 3 (T3) groups. All rats were given 2 mL of high cholesterol feed orally every day for 28 days. On day-15, all rats were measured for their blood cholesterol levels, followed by treatment for 14 days. Rats in the NC, PC, T1, T2, and T3 groups were treated with 1% Na-CMC, Simvastatin 10 mg/kg BW, and RDFPE of 500, 750, and 1000 mg/kg BW, respectively. On day-29, all rats were sacrificed to evaluate spermatozoa viability and motility. The results showed that spermatozoa viability and motility in the hypercholesterolemic rats (NC) group were the lowest (p <0.05) among the groups. Treatment of hypercholesterolemic rats with Simvastatin 10 mg/kg BW (PC) group showed higher (p <0.05) spermatozoa viability and motility compared to the NC group. RDFPE dose of 1000 mg/kg BW (T3 group) resulted in higher (p <0.05) spermatozoa viability and motility compared to other RDFPE doses (T1 and T2) and the control (NC) groups, and it was similar (p >0.05) compared with the Simvastatin treated (PC) group. It could be concluded that the administration of 1000 mg/kg BW ethanolic extract of red dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) peel increased the viability and motility of spermatozoa of hypercholesterolemic rats (Rattus norvegicus) which were the same as the group of rats given Simvastatin 10 mg/kg BW.

Red dragon (Hylocereus polyrhizus) fruit peel extract increased the motility and viability of spermatozoa of hypercholesterolemic rats (Rattus norvegicus)

This study aims to determine the effect of red dragon (Hylocereus polyrhizus) fruit peel extract (RDFPE) on spermatozoa motility and viability of hypercholesterolemic rats (Rattus norvegicus) as a model. Twenty male rats were randomly divided into negative control (NC), positive control (PC), treatment 1 (T1), treatment 2 (T2), and treatment 3 (T3) groups. All rats were given 2 mL of high cholesterol feed orally every day for 28 days. On day-15, all rats were measured for their blood cholesterol levels, followed by treatment for 14 days. Rats in the NC, PC, T1, T2, and T3 groups were treated with 1% Na-CMC, Simvastatin 10 mg/kg BW, and RDFPE of 500, 750, and 1000 mg/kg BW, respectively. On day-29, all rats were sacrificed to evaluate spermatozoa viability and motility. The results showed that spermatozoa viability and motility in the hypercholesterolemic rats (NC) group were the lowest (p <0.05) among the groups. Treatment of hypercholesterolemic rats with Simvastatin 10 mg/kg BW (PC) group showed higher (p <0.05) spermatozoa viability and motility compared to the NC group. RDFPE dose of 1000 mg/kg BW (T3 group) resulted in higher (p <0.05) spermatozoa viability and motility compared to other RDFPE doses (T1 and T2) and the control (NC) groups, and it was similar (p >0.05) compared with the Simvastatin treated (PC) group. It could be concluded that the administration of 1000 mg/kg BW ethanolic extract of red dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) peel increased the viability and motility of spermatozoa of hypercholesterolemic rats (Rattus norvegicus) which were the same as the group of rats given Simvastatin 10 mg/kg BW.

Moringa oleifera Leaf Ethanol Extract Inhibits Toxoplasma gondii Tachyzoites Replication

The various infection routes of Toxoplasma gondii that are close to daily life strongly support the incidence of toxoplasmosis. The emergence of drug-resistant Toxoplasma gondii strains raises future concerns. Moringa leaf ethanol extract has been shown to have several anti-pathogen activities, which could have an anti-Toxoplasma effect. This research was conducted to analyze the anti-Toxoplasma effect of moringa leaf ethanol extract against tachyzoites replication in Toxoplasma gondii and the correlation between extract doses with the number of tachyzoites. Mice were divided into five groups. The negative control group (Group I) received CMC-Na solution. The positive control group (Group II) received spiramycin 100 mg/kg BW. The treatment groups received moringa leaf ethanol extract 250 mg/kg BW (group III), 500 mg/kg BW (group IV), and 1000 mg/kg BW (group V), respectively. Mice were injected with 1 x 105 tachyzoites/0.1 mL/mice intraperitoneally on the first day. Moringa leaf ethanol extract and spiramycin were given orally once daily for three days. The number of tachyzoites in the intraperitoneal fluid was calculated on the fifth day. The results have shown that there were significantly lower differences (P < 0.05) in group IV (P = 0.021) and group V (P = 0.022) compared to group I. There was also a significant negative correlation between the extract doses and the number of tachyzoites (P = 0.000; r = -0.781). Moringa oleifera leaf ethanol extract has an anti-Toxoplasma effect by inhibiting the tachyzoite replication at 500 mg/kg BW and 1000 mg/kg BW.

Effect of andaliman (Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC.) ethanol extract on doxorubicin-induced toxicity on hematology in male rats

Introduction: Doxorubicin is one of the chemotherapy drugs that have harmful effects on blood hematology. Blood hematological diseases are caused by its adverse effects and anticancer properties. The antioxidant properties of several plants have been reported to be closely related to reduced toxicity in blood hematology. Andaliman (Zanthoxylum acanthopodium) ethanolic extract (AEE) is thought to reduce the toxicity of doxorubicin due to the antioxidant properties of its secondary metabolite content. This study aimed to determine the effect of AEE on doxorubicin-induced rats and its effect on blood cells. Materials and Method: A total of 24 male rats were divided into 6 groups: (1) Normal group; (2) 0.5% Na-CMC group; (3) 50 mg/kg BW quercetin group; (4) AEE 75 mg/kg BW group; (5) AEE 150 mg/kg BW group; and (6) AEE group 300 mg/kg BW administered orally for 9 days. On days 8 and 9, doxorubicin 10 mg/kg BW was administered. Rats were sacrificed for blood collection, and measured at the Integrated Laboratory of the USU Hospital. Results: AEE reduces the toxicity of doxorubicin on blood parameters. Furthermore, it affects Hb, white blood cells, platelet cells, monocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and several related protein metabolisms as well as organ damage. Dose 150 or 300 mg/kg AEE reduce all blood toxins to near-normal levels and decrease the lymphocyte and neutrophil suppressive activity of doxorubicin. Conclusion: Andaliman ethanol extract can improve Hb count, white blood cells, platelet cells, monocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, protein metabolism, and organ damage. Furthermore, AEE can be used in combination with doxorubicin to reduce its hematological toxicity.
 Keywords: toxicity, hematology, doxorubicin, andaliman, Zanthoxylum acanthopodium, extract

Bioactive nutraceuticals oligo-lactic acid and fermented soy extract alleviate cognitive decline in mice in part via anti-neuroinflammation and modulation of gut microbiota.

Cognition decline is associated with aging and certain diseases, such as neurodegenerative or neuropsychiatric disorders, diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Inflammation/neuroinflammation is considered an important causal factor, and experimental evidence suggests that anti-inflammatory natural compounds may effectively prevent cognitive decline. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of two natural bioactive agents, oligo-lactic acid (LAP) and fermented soy extract (ImmunBalance, IMB), on cognition in an adenine-induced cognitive impairment mouse model and to investigate the modulation of related biomarkers. Male C57 black mice were randomly assigned into the following experimental groups and received the corresponding treatments for 2 weeks before the use of adenine for model development: (1) negative control; (2) model control: injection of adenine at 50 mg/kg daily for 4 weeks; (3, 4) IMB groups: adenine injection and IMB oral gavage at 250 and 1,000 mg/kg BW, respectively; and (5) LAP group: adenine injection and LAP oral gavage at 1,000 mg/kg BW. One week after the model was developed, mice were evaluated for cognitive performances by using Y maze test, novel object recognition test, open field test, and Barnes maze tests. At the end of the experiment, brain tissues and cecum fecal samples were collected for analysis of gene expression and gut microbiota. Mice treated with LAP or IMB had significantly improved spatial working memory, spatial recognition memory (LAP only), novel object recognition, and spatial learning and memory, compared with those in the model group. Gene expression analysis showed that, among a panel of cognition related genes, six of them (ELOVL2, GLUT4, Nestein, SNCA, TGFB1, and TGFB2) were significantly altered in the model group. LAP treatment significantly reversed expression levels of inflammatory/neuroinflammatory genes (SNCA, TGFB1), and IMB significantly reversed expression levels of genes related to inflammation/neuroinflammation, neurogenesis, and energy metabolism (ELOVL2, GLUT4, Nestin, TGFB1, and TGFB2). The altered microbiome was attenuated only by IMB. In conclusion, our data showed that LAP improved cognition associated with regulating biomarkers related to neuroinflammation and energy metabolism, whereas IMB improved cognition associated with regulating biomarkers related to neuroinflammation, energy metabolism, and neurogenesis, and modulating gut microbiota. Our results suggest that LAP and IMB may improve cognitive performance in mice via distinct mechanisms of action.

Genetic Variability in Lithuanian Black and White Cattle with Different Proportions of Holstein Bloodline

Background: Maintaining genetic variability in livestock is the important step towards developing appropriate management strategies. When considering crossing native Lithuanian Black and White cattle (BW) with Holsteins (HL), comprehensive knowledge of breed characteristics, including genetic diversity, is required. The aim of this study was to determine the genetic variability between Lithuanian Black and White and Holstein cattle breeds in relation to groups with different proportions of the Holstein bloodline. Methods: A total of 126 cattle samples were studied at 13 microsatellite loci to estimate genetic variability. Result: The largest number of alleles was detected in the BW cattle group with at least 50% Holstein blood. Private alleles were found in all cattle groups except the BW cattle group with a 83-90% Holstein bloodline. Principal coordinate analyses (PCoA) showed the separation of the HL group and other BW groups, as well as the individual that was pure-blooded Lithuanian Black and White. The results revealed further actions breeders should take to retain the required genotype of the native Lithuanian Black and White cattle breed.

The Effectiveness of Black Garlic (Allium sativum L. Fermentation) on Blood Glucose Levels in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a major health issue worldwide, with hyperglycemia being the primary symptom. Uncontrolled hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus can lead to a variety of complications. This research aims to analyze the effectiveness of black garlic in reducing blood glucose in diabetic rats induced by streptozotocin. Methods: A randomized pretest-posttest-only control group design was used in this experimental study. Twenty-four male Wistar Rats were divided into six groups randomly, that is a normal group (N) without any treatment, a negative control group (C-) with streptozotocin induction, a positive control group (C+) with streptozotocin induction plus administration of metformin 45mg/kg BW and treatment groups (T1, T2, and T3) with streptozotocin induction plus administration of black garlic at doses of 72 mg/200gBW/day, 144 mg/200gBW/day, and 288 mg/200gBW/day respectively. The study was conducted for 14 days of treatment. Blood glucose was measured with a glucometer, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26 by paired t-test. Results: Based on the Comparability analysis, giving black garlic for 14 days showed significant differences in blood glucose levels before and after treatment in groups C-, C+, T1, T2, and T3 with P<0,05. Based on the different averages of the data, in group C+, there was a significant increase in blood glucose levels, while in groups C-, T1, T2, and T3, there was a significant decrease in blood glucose levels. Conclusion: Black garlic significantly lowers blood glucose levels in white male rats (Rattus norvegicus) diabetes mellitus model induced by streptozotocin.

Protein Hydrolysate of Green Peas Bromelain Attenuates Kidney Fibrosis in Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity Rats: Emphasis on Anti-Inflammatory Activities

Massive tubule fibrosis is a histopathology hallmark of chronic renal failure (CRF). The previous study of protein hydrolysate of green pea (Pisum sativum) bromelain (PHGPB) showed promising results as an antifibrosis in glucose-induced renal mesangial culture cells, by decreasing their TGF-β levels. In this experiment the anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic effect of PHGPB in Cisplatin-induced chronic renal failure (CRF) rats was measured. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antifibrosis effect of PHGPB in Cisplatin-induced chronic renal failure rats. Five groups consisted of five rats: negative control, Cisplatin control, and three groups of Cisplatin+PHGPB (dose of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg BW/day) treated for 56 days. The examined parameters are Beta-2-microglobulin (β2MG), hs-CRP, histopathological observations of Masson's trichrome stain, and IHC. The level of β2MG and hs-CRP in the Cisplatin+PHGPB group lowered and was highly different from Cisplatin control (p&lt;0.05) depending on doses. In histopathology, the Cisplatin+PHGPB 400 mg/kg BW group showed less fibrosis and no significant difference with the negative control in Masson trichome staining. While in IHC histopathology, PHGPB treatment slightly ameliorated TGF-β expression and intensity of TGF-β values convincingly. In conclusion, PHGPB can relieve kidney fibrosis in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity rats: Emphasis on anti-inflammatory activities.

Royal jelly arranges apoptotic and oxidative stress pathways and reduces damage to liver tissues of rats by down-regulation of Bcl-2, GSK3 and NF-κB and up-regulation of caspase and Nrf-2 protein signalling pathways

Introduction Royal jelly (RJ) from the honey bee, Apis mellifera, is a traditional product that is widely used as a food supplement to support the medical treatment of various diseases. Material and methods Our study continued for 8 weeks. 42 Wistar albino (8 weeks old) male rats were used in the study. The study included 6 groups; Group 1: Control group (fed with standard diet), Group 2: RJ (100 mg/kg, bw), Group 3: F-50 (50 mg/kg, bw), group 4: F-100 (100 mg/kg, bw) group 5: F-50 (50 mg/kg, bw) + RJ (100 mg/kg, bw) Group 6: F-100 (100 mg/kg, bw) + RJ (100 mg/kg, bw). Malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) activities in liver tissue were determined by spectrophotometer. Liver tissue samples were examined histopathologically and various protein levels were determined by Western blotting technique. Results RJ caused a significant decrease in MDA level, Bcl-2, GSK3 and NF-κB protein expression levels, whereas induced a significant increase in GSH level, CAT activities and Bax, BDNF, caspase-6, caspase-3, Nrf-2 protein expression levels. Conclusion Our findings suggest RJ to be used as a hepatoprotective agent in the clinic to modulate the toxic effects of fluoride and other chemicals in the future.

Efficacy of Sambiloto Extracts, Andrographis paniculate, (Burm. F) in Inhibiting Diabetic Retinopathy Progression: An in Vivo Study.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of diabetes mellitus complication and occurred in retinal microvascular. This study was aimed to investigate the efficacy of Sambiloto, Andrographis paniculate (A. paniculata) extract on glycemic profile, antioxidant and inflammatory cytokine parameters in diabetic rats, and phytochemical analysis of A. paniculata. A. paniculata extract (APE) was carried out by maceration with ethanol. Diabetes mellitus in Wistar male rats was induced with streptozotocin. Retinal vessel diameters were estimated using a method by Vucetic. Inflammatory cytokine and antioxidant parameters were evaluated in retinal tissue. The alkaloid and flavonoid contents in extract were analyzed using thin layer chromatography method. Funduscopic examination presented some changes in the diameter of the blood vessels. The vessel diameter in the diabetic retinopathy group with APE in concentration of 100 and 200 mg/kg BW groups was significantly lower than in the DR group (p<0.05). The administration of APE in dosages of 100 and 200 mg/kg BW showed reduced glutathione, SOD, and catalase levels compared to the DR group (p<0.05). A. paniculata extract doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg BW improved diabetic retinopathy in rats through hypoglycemic effects, antioxidant effects, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Anti-RAGE (Receptor Advanced Glycation End products) Antibody Improves Diabetic Retinopathy in Rats via Hypoglycemic and Anti-inflammatory Mechanism.

Receptor advanced glycation end products (RAGE) activation plays an essential role in diabetic retinopathy (DR) progression. This study was aimed to explore the role of anti-RAGE antibodies (RAGE antagonists) in inhibiting DR progression through their hypoglycemic and anti-inflammatory mechanism in diabetic retinopathy induced rats. A total of 30 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five group. The group was consisted of normal control group, DR group without treatment, DR group with anti-RAGE 1 ηg/kg BW, 10 ηg/kg BW, and 100 ηg/kg BW. To assess the diabetic retinopathy, fundus photographs were taken every week using a camera with 16x magnification placed in front of the rat's eyes. Blood glucose was checked by the glucose oxidase-peroxidase method. Retinal TNF-α levels and VEGF were examined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. The finding of this study showed that anti-RAGE treatment at dose of 10 and 100 ηg/kg BW, HbA1c levels were significantly higher (p< 0.05) compared to the normal control group but significantly lower (p< 0.05) than in the diabetes group. The mean blood vessel diameter in the DR+anti-RAGE 10 and 100 ηg/kg BW groups was significantly lower than in the diabetic retinopathy group (p< 0.05). The administration of anti-RAGE 10 and 100 ηg/kg BW showed the ability to significantly reduce VEGF levels compared to the DR group (p< 0.05). This study revealed at doses of 10 and 100 ηg/kg BW, anti-RAGE antibodies improved diabetic retinopathy in Wistar rats through hypoglycemic effects and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Evaluation of the analgesic activity of the ethanol extract of sungkai (Paronema canescens Jack) leaves in the albino rat

Paronema canescens also known as sungkai, has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, including its analgesic effects.This study aimed to determine the analgesic effect of the ethanol extract of P. canescens leaves in rats. The analgesic effect was tested with the hot plate test. The muscarinic, dopamine and opiate receptors were investigated to examine the underlying mechanism. The rats were assigned to five groups: negative control, positive control, and treatment groups 100, 200, and 400 mg/kgbody weight (BW).The mechanism of the analgesic action for each receptor (muscarinic, dopamine, and opiate) was tested with 12 rats using the dose with the highest analgesic effect as determined by the hot plate test that had been performed before. The comparison between the 100 mg/kg BW group and the positive control showed no significant differences (p &gt; 0.05), while the 200 and 400 mg/kg BW groups were significantly different (p &lt; 0.05). The 200 and 400 mg/kg BW groups revealed also no significant difference (p &gt; 0.05). The ethanol extract of P. canescens leaves had the highest analgesic activity at the dose of 400 mg/kg BW with an analgesic effect of 40.26%of the pain threshold. The antinociceptive mechanism of the extract through muscarinic receptors shows an increase in latency time, while dopamine and opiate receptors show a decreased latency time. It was concluded that P. canescens leaves could contribute in the future as one of the herbal medicines to analgesics.

The Effect of Salinity Stress on Enzyme Activities, Histology, and Transcriptome of Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix).

A 56-day study was performed to examine the effect of freshwater (FW) and brackish water (BW 6‱ salinity) on the antioxidant ability, Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) activities, histology, and transcriptome of the gill and kidney tissue in juvenile silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix). The results show that when juvenile silver carp were exposed to 6‱ salinity, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were shown to be substantially increased (p &lt; 0.05), while glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activities in gill were not significantly affected (p &lt; 0.05). In kidney tissue, SOD, CAT, and GSH-PX, enzyme activities peaked at 24, 8, and 4 h, respectively, but were not significantly different compared with the control group (p &lt; 0.05). In addition, significant effects of salinity were observed for the NKA level in both the gills and kidney tissues (p &lt; 0.05). The gill filaments of juvenile silver carp under the BW group all underwent adverse changes within 72 h, such as cracks and ruptures in the main part of the gill filaments, bending of the gill lamellae and enlargement of the gaps, and an increase in the number of mucus and chloride-secreting cells. Transcriptome sequencing showed 171 and 261 genes in the gill and kidney tissues of juvenile silver carp compared to the BW group, respectively. Based on their gene ontology annotations, transcripts were sorted into four functional gene groups, each of which may play a role in salt tolerance. Systems involved in these processes include metabolism, signal transduction, immunoinflammatory response, and ion transport. The above findings indicate that the regulation processes in juvenile silver carp under brackish water conditions are complex and multifaceted. These processes and mechanisms shed light on the regulatory mechanism of silver carp osmolarity and provide a theoretical foundation for future research into silver carp growth in brackish water aquaculture area.

The effectiveness of avocado (Persea americana M.) leaves infusion as urinary stones dissolving in rats

Urolithiasis is a pathological condition marked by the formation of urinary stones (calculi) in the urinary tract. Avocado leaf ( Persea americana M.) contains substances that play crucial roles in the solubility of calcium in urinary stones, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and magnesium. Empirically, avocado leaves are used to make urinating easier and break stones in the urinary tract. This study aims to determine the effect of avocado leaf infusion to dissolve urinary stones in white male rats. According to the experiment, 24 male white rats were divided into four groups; the negative control group (not given infusion), the 1 g/kg BW dose group, the 2 g/kg BW dose group, and the 3 g/kg BW dose group of avocado leaves infusion. The infusion was administered orally for seven consecutive days after 28 days of planting black silk thread as the stone core in the urinary tract. Then, the stone formed is taken. The weight and volume are measured. The urinary stones were tested qualitatively in terms of calcium and oxalate. The results showed that there were significant differences among treatment groups in weight and volume of urinary stones. The effect of bladder stone dissolving was best in the 3 g/kg BW group. The qualitative test also shows that urinary stones contain the same calcium and oxalate as urinary stones that form in humans. Avocado leaves infusion can have a urinary stone dissolving effect on white male rats. Increasing the dose of avocado leaves infusion increases its effectiveness as a urinary stone dissolution.

Subchronic Oral Toxicity Evaluation of Sodium Dehydroacetate: A 90-day Repeated Dose Study in Rats

ObjectiveThe present study was undertaken to evaluate the subchronic oral toxicity of sodium dehydroacetate (DHA-Na) and to determine the point of departure (POD), which is a critical factor in the establishment of an acceptable dietary intake. MethodsDHA-Na was administered once daily by gavage to Sprague-Dawley rats at dose levels of 0.0, 31.0, 62.0, and 124.0 mg/kg BW per day for 90 days, followed by a recovery period of 4 weeks in the control and 124.0 mg/kg BW per day groups. The outcome parameters were mortality, clinical observations, body weights, food consumption, hematology and clinical biochemistry, endocrine hormone levels, and ophthalmic, urinary, and histopathologic indicators. The benchmark dose (BMD) approach was applied to estimate the POD. ResultsSignificant decreases were found in the 62.0 and 124.0 mg/kg BW groups in terms of the body weight and food utilization rate, whereas a significant increase was found in the thyroid stimulating hormone levels of the 124.0 mg/kg BW group. Importantly, the 95% lower confidence limit on the BMD of 51.7 mg/kg BW was modeled for a reduction in body weight. ConclusionThe repeated-dose study indicated the slight systemic toxicity of DHA-Na at certain levels (62.0 and 124.0 mg/kg BW) after a 90-day oral exposure.

Effects of environmental salinity on the immune response of the coastal fish Scatophagus argus during bacterial infection

The coastal aquaculture is characterized with environmental salinity fluctuation, and the effects of salinity stress on the immunity of cultured fish are needed to be further explored. Scatophagus argus is an important species in the wild fisheries and aquaculture industry, it would be of great value to reveal the impact of salinity change on the immune response in this species. Understanding the effects of salinity stress on immune response can provide valuable insights into salinity management in the aquacultural process. The head kidney, which is an organ unique for teleost fish, functions not only as a central immune organ but also as a crucial role in the stress response during which the secretion of immunoregulatory molecules i.e. cytokines is facilitated. In the present study, Individuals of S. argus acclimated to 3 different salinities [0‰ (FW), 10‰ (BW), and 25‰ (SW)] were injected intraperitoneally with A. hydrophila, and then monitored throughout one week. The effects of environmental salinity on the immune response in S. argus stimulated by A. hydrophila infection were investigated. mRNA expression profiles of cytokine genes IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α in different salinity groups was quite different. mRNA expression of cytokine genes in BW group and SW group rose more quickly and significantly higher than FW group (p < 0.05) at early stages (6–24 hpi) after bacterial injection, and before 96 hpi, the highest value of cytokine expression at each time point was recorded in SW group. Immune parameters such as lysozyme level, complement C3 activity and IgM content in BW and FW groups were lower than SW group at each time point from 24 to 144 hpi after bacterial injection. In addition, leukocyte profiles in the head kidney and blood were also investigated. Although hypoosmotic acclimation could temporarily stimulate monocyte and neutrophil proliferation, it was observed that the number of monocytes, neutrophils and lymphocytes of the head kidney and blood in SW group increased more quickly than BW and FW groups after bacterial infection. Our results indicate that hypoosmotic stress due to the decrease of environmental salinity has suppressive immunoregulatory effects on the immune response of S. argus.

Integrative Transcriptome and Metabolome Profiles Reveal Common and Unique Pathways Involved in Seed Initial Imbibition Under Artificial and Natural Salt Stresses During Germination of Halophyte Quinoa.

Salt stress is a major environmental factor that seriously restricts quinoa seed germination. However, the key regulatory mechanisms underlying the effect of salt stress on the initial imbibition stage of quinoa seeds are unclear. In this study, dry seeds (0 h) and imbibed (8 h) seeds with 450 mM NaCl (artificial salt) and 100% brackish water of Yellow River Estuary (BW, natural salt) were used to assess the key salt responses based on germination, transcriptome, and metabolome analyses. The results indicated that the capacity of germinating seeds to withstand these two salt stresses was similar due to the similarities in the germination percentage, germination index, mean germination time, and germination phenotypes. Combined omics analyses revealed that the common and unique pathways were induced by NaCl and BW. Starch and sucrose metabolism were the only commonly enriched pathways in which the genes were significantly changed. Additionally, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, and ascorbate and aldarate metabolism were preferably enriched in the NaCl group. However, glutathione metabolism tended to enrich in the BW group where glutathione peroxidase, peroxiredoxin 6, and glutathione S-transferase were significantly regulated. These findings suggest that the candidates involved in carbohydrate metabolism and antioxidant defense can regulate the salt responses of seed initial imbibition, which provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of artificial and natural salt stresses.

Impact of broiler breeder growth trajectory on plasma corticosterone concentration: a comparison of analytical methods

Blood concentration of corticosterone (CORT) is a measure of welfare in feed restricted broiler breeders. The RIA and ELISA have been routinely used for measuring CORT in blood, excreta, and feather. Due to the presence of some confounding factors in the aforementioned colorimetric enzyme reaction methods, some methodological difficulties have been attributed to those assays. The correlation between broiler breeder plasma CORT concentrations, measured using ELISA and a novel liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method, was the focus of the current study. A total of 36 broiler breeder pullets were used, of which 30 were randomly assigned to one of 10 unique growth trajectories, and 6 were assigned to an unrestricted group. We designed the growth trajectories using a 3-phase Gompertz growth model with 10 levels of BW gain in the prepubertal and pubertal growth phases, ranging from the breeder-recommended target BW (CON) to 22.5% higher (CON+22.5%), in 2.5% increments. The BW trajectories were applied to each individual bird using a precision feeding (PF) system, which collected BW and feed intake data. The birds were classified based on age at first egg (AFE), and 12 birds each having the highest and lowest AFE was selected for the CORT study. Then median photostimulation BW of the candidate birds was used to define the upper (heavy BW) and lower (standard BW) extremes, and plasma CORT levels were evaluated by ELISA and LC-MS/MS methods from their blood collected at 18, 20, 22, 24, and 26 wk of age. Concentrations of plasma CORT measured using ELISA method were highly correlated (r = 0.95; P < 0.001) with values measured using LC-MS/MS method, validating interchangeably usage of both methods to measure plasma CORT in broiler breeders. Plasma CORT levels were not affected by photostimulation BW or breeders' age, indicating same welfare status between the precision fed high and low BW groups.

Arsenic intake-induced gastric toxicity is blocked by grape skin extract by modulating inflammation and oxidative stress in a mouse model

Arsenic (As) is known to induce toxic responses in many organs of human beings and animals. However, research concerning toxicity in the stomach is limited. In this study, arsenic-induced gastric toxicity was investigated in a mouse model, and grape skin extract (GSE) was confirmed to have protective effects against arsenic toxicity. Our experimental results showed that exposure to 10 mg/l arsenic via drinking water for 56 days caused oxidative damage and inflammatory responses. The H2O2 and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were significantly increased, accompanied by significant decreases in total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity and glutathione (GSH) content in the gastric tissue of arsenic-treated mice. Two inflammatory signalling pathways, i.e., TLR2/MyD88/NF-κB and IL-6/STAT-3, were activated, along with inflammatory cell infiltration and the elevated mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IFN-γ) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the gastric tissue of mice exposed to arsenic. Meanwhile, the mRNA levels of the ZO-1, ZO-2 and occludin genes, which encode the key components of tight junction (TJ) complexes, were downregulated. However, the application of GSE (300 mg/kg bw) significantly inhibited the arsenic-induced increases in H2O2 and MDA contents and the decreases in T-SOD activity and GSH content. The arsenic-mediated gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IFN-γ), MPO and IL-6/STAT3 and TLR2/MyD88/NF-κB pathways was found down-regulated. Moreover, the arsenic-induced inflammatory cell infiltration and inhibition of TJ genes transcription were markedly attenuated in the As+GSE (300 mg/kg bw) group. Based on the present findings, arsenic intake appears to cause gastric toxicity via oxidative stress and inflammation, and the application of GSE offers significant protection against arsenic toxicity in a mouse model by attenuating the oxidative stress and inflammatory response. Our results suggest that GSE by oral administration might function as a candidate therapeutic supplement to antagonize arsenic toxicity.