CP Group Research Articles

Replacing Hydrolyzed Soybean Meal with Recombinant β-Glucosidase Enhances Resistance to Clostridium perfringens in Broilers Through Immune Modulation

Aglycone soy isoflavones have notable immune-regulatory bioactivity, while glycosidic forms in soybean meal pose challenges for absorption. β-Glucosidase (EC 3.2.1.21) catalyzes the non-reducing terminal β-d-glucosidic bonds, releasing β-d-glucan and aglycones. This study evaluated the impact of enzymatically hydrolyzed soybean meal (ESM) using recombinant β-glucosidase from Aspergillus niger on the growth performance and intestinal immune function of broilers under Clostridium perfringens infection. Prior to the feeding trial, soybean meal was enzymatically digested with recombinant β-glucosidase, ensuring almost complete conversion of glycosides to aglycones. After a week of pre-feeding, a total 180 healthy AA broilers were randomly assigned to three groups—control, semi-replacement of ESM (50% ESM), and full-replacement of ESM (100% ESM)—with 6 replicates of 10 chickens, and the trial lasted 28 days. On the 36th day, broilers were challenged with 1 mL of 1 × 1010 CFU/mL Clostridium perfringens (Cp) via gavage for 3 days. The results showed that the substitution of ESM had no effect on the body weight gain of broilers but significantly reduced the feed consumption and feed-to-gain ratio (p < 0.01). The study revealed that Cp significantly disrupted jejunal morphology, while ESM significantly mitigated this damage (p < 0.05). Real-time PCR results demonstrated that compared to the Cp group, ESM restored Cp-induced intestinal barrier impairments (e.g., Occludin, Claudin-1, Muc2), normalized aberrant cellular proliferation (PCNA) and apoptosis (Caspase-1 and Caspase-3), and upregulated the expression of anti-inflammatory factor Il-10 while suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines (Il-1β, Il-6, and Il-8) (p < 0.05). Moreover, flow cytometry analyses demonstrated that ESM promoted Treg cell-derived Il-10, which alleviated macrophage-derived inflammation. Substituting conventional soybean meal with β-glucosidase, enzymatically treated, significantly reduced feed consumption and alleviated the intestinal damage and immune dysfunctions induced by Clostridium perfringens infection in broilers.

Synthesis and computational studies for halide‐free, neutral, and bifunctional one‐component ferrocene‐based catalysts for the coupling of carbon dioxide and epoxides

AbstractWe used stable and nontoxic [(dimethylamino)methyl]ferrocene (Fc‐N), (hydroxymethyl)ferrocene (Fc‐O), 1,2‐bis[(dimethylamino)methyl]ferrocene (Fc‐N2), and 1‐[(dimethylamino)methyl]‐2‐(hydroxymethyl)ferrocene (Fc‐NO) as halide‐free, neutral, and bifunctional one‐component catalysts for the synthesis of cyclic carbonates. They do not need halide‐based additives or tethered salts attached to ligands when used for this coupling reaction. Among them, Fc‐N2 exhibited the best catalytic activity under the same reaction conditions. Catalytic activity decreased rapidly in the order Fc‐N2 > Fc‐NO > Fc‐N > Fc‐O, and interestingly, the more amino groups introduced into the Cp groups, the higher the activity. Various terminal and internal epoxides were easily converted into the corresponding cyclic carbonates. Calculations based on the density functional theory were also carried out to elucidate the mechanism of the coupling reaction.

Impact of multiple infections on risk of incident dementia according to subjective cognitive decline status: a nationwide population-based cohort study.

The interrelation between infections, subjective cognitive decline (SCD), and dementia development is recognized, but not fully understood. This study explored the combined effect of specific infections and SCD on the risk of dementia. To assess the influence of Helicobacter pylori, herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and human papillomavirus on dementia risk in individuals with varying cognitive statuses, especially focusing on those with and without SCD. A cohort of 1,100,540 participants aged 66 years from the Korean National Health Insurance Service was divided into cognitively preserved (CP, n = 825,405) and SCD (n = 275,135) groups. This study analyzed the effects of single, dual, and triple infections on the risk of overall dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and vascular dementia (VaD) using incidence rates and hazard ratios. The SCD group consistently showed a doubled risk of dementia, particularly AD, regardless of the number of infections. In the initial data, both the presence and number of infections, especially in the CP group, were associated with an increased dementia incidence and risk; however, this correlation disappeared after adjusting for covariates, hinting at a possible protective effect. Our findings emphasize that, while SCD is a steadfast risk factor for dementia, the role of infections is layered, subject to various influences, and requires more comprehensive exploration to fully understand their impact on dementia development.

Comparison of lidocaine bicarbonate with fentanyl and chloroprocaine for epidural anesthesia during cesarean section: a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial.

Chloroprocaine and lidocaine bicarbonate are commonly used for epidural anesthesia because of their rapid onset, particularly in the case of conversion from epidural labor analgesia to emergency cesarean section. However, it is unclear whether lidocaine bicarbonate combined with fentanyl has an advantage over chloroprocaine alone in emergency cesarean section. In this study, 102 women who underwent elective cesarean section received 15mL 3% chloroprocaine and 1mL saline (CP group) or 15mL 1.73% lidocaine bicarbonate and 1mL fentanyl 50μg (LF group) for epidural anesthesia. Nociceptive block level was assessed by pinprick and recorded every minute. The primary outcome was the onset time to T6 block. The median onset time to T6 analgesia was 10 [10, 10] min in the CP group and 10 [7, 10] min in the LF group (COX model for CP versus LF, HR 0.47, 95% CI 0.23-0.95, p = 0.035). The median onset time to T8 analgesia was 7 [5, 9] min in CP group and 5 [4, 7] min in LF group (COX model for CP versus LF, HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.39-0.95, p = 0.027). The proportion of hypotension episodes occurring before delivery in LF group was lower than that in CP group (p = 0.011). The incidence of block level ≥ T4 after supplemental dosing in the LF group was lower than that in the CP group (p = 0.031). Compared with 3% chloroprocaine, 1.73% lidocaine bicarbonate combined with fentanyl 50μg has a slightly faster onset time and less hypotension in epidural anesthesia for cesarean section. Clinical Trial Registration: http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.html, identifier ChiCTR2200056180.

Immunomodulatory and antioxidant effect of liposomal auraptene against cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in BALB/c mice

IntroductionCyclophosphamide (CP), which is a commonly used chemotherapy drug, can lead to a range of side effects such as immunosuppression, bone marrow suppression, leukopenia, and oxidative stress. This study aims to explore the effects of Auraptene (AUR), which has immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties, on immune function in mice that are experiencing suppression induced by CP. Materials and methodsThe experiment involved 60 male BALB/c mice that underwent a 10-day treatment. On days 1, 3, and 9, CP was given at 80 mg/kg IP doses to induce immunosuppression. The mice were divided into five groups: Control group, CP group, CP + liposomal AUR 0.2 mg/kg (AUR 0.2), CP + liposomal AUR 0.25 mg/kg (AUR 0.25), and liposomal vehicle group. Various parameters were measured, including mouse weight, immune organ weight index (spleen and thymus), spleen and thymus histopathology, levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL2, IL10, IL4, IFN-γ), TH1/TH2 balance ratio, IgG and IgM immunoglobulin levels, white blood cell count, platelets, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and oxidative activity measured by MDA, SOD, and Total Antioxidant. ResultsIn the group treated with CP, the mice showed a significant decrease in weight compared to the control group. In contrast, the group treated with AUR maintained their weight and did not show a significant difference from the control group. AUR 0.25 reduced the damage to the spleen and thymus caused by CP. Additionally, AUR 0.25 demonstrated a significant decrease in IL4 and IL10 levels compared to the CP group (p = 0.04), approaching the levels of the control group. Furthermore, IL2 and IFN-γ levels in the AUR 0.25 group significantly increased (p = 0.04) compared to the CP group, reaching levels similar to the control group. AUR also increased serum IgM and IgG levels two to three times compared to the CP group, approaching the levels of the control group. MDA levels in the AUR 0.25 group decreased to normal and control levels. AUR 0.25 also showed increased SOD and Total Antioxidant levels. Additionally, white blood cells, platelets, neutrophils, and lymphocytes in the AUR group significantly increased compared to the CP group, reaching normal levels similar to the control group. The TH1/TH2 ratio in the AUR group exhibited a significant increase of two and a half times (p = 0.002) compared to the CP group. ConclusionThese results show that AUR protects against the side effects of CP by increasing the function of the humoral and cellular immune system through the balance of TH1/TH2 and increasing the level of immunoglobulins, as well as increasing the antioxidant activity and the protective role of cytotoxicity.

Efficacy and safety of penetrating canaloplasty versus ab externo canaloplasty for primary open-angle glaucoma: A randomized controlled trial.

To report the 2-year efficacy and safety of penetrating canaloplasty versus ab externo canaloplasty for the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). A single surgical site in China. This was a prospective, randomized controlled trial. POAG patients were randomly assigned to the penetrating canaloplasty or ab externo canaloplasty group. This study enrolled POAG patients who underwent penetrating canaloplasty or ab externo canaloplasty randomly. Surgical success, intraocular pressure (IOP), number of glaucoma medications, and surgical complications were evaluated until 24 months post-operatively. Surgical success was defined as 6 mmHg ≤ IOP ≤21 mmHg with an IOP reduction ≥20%, which included qualified success (with or without medications) and complete success (without medications). A total of 52 eyes (45 patients) were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the penetrating canaloplasty group (PCP, n = 26) or the ab externo canaloplasty group (CP, n = 26). The probabilities of qualified success and complete success were 92.3% and 76.9%, respectively, in the PCP group and 64.1% and 52.1%, respectively, in the CP group at 24 months (p = 0.013, p = 0.042, log-rank test). The mean IOP decreased from 30.8 ± 10.7 and 28.6 ± 11.8 mmHg to 14.1 ± 3.3 mmHg in the PCP group and 22.1 ± 13.6 mmHg in the CP group at year two (p = 0.007). The PCP group also received fewer medications (0.2 ± 0.5) than did the CP group (0.7 ± 1.2) at year two (p = 0.038). Post-operative complications were similar, and the most common complications were transient IOP elevation and hyphema in the PCP group (42.3%, 46.2%) and the CP group (38.5%, 23.1%) (p > 0.05). Compared to ab externo canaloplasty, penetrating canaloplasty had a greater surgical success rate and better IOP reduction with a comparable rate of complications.

Influence of collagen peptide supplementation on visible signs of skin and nail health and -aging in an East Asian population: A double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

A healthy skin provides protection against intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Skin aging is characterized by structural and morphological alterations affecting skin health, integrity, and functionality, resulting in visible aging signs. The primary objective of this study was to assess the effect of a collagen peptide dietary supplement on skin aging in the East Asian population. Eighty-five healthy women, aged from 43 to 65 years old, were randomly assigned to the collagen supplement (CP, 5 g) or placebo (maltodextrin, 5 g) group. To standardize daily skin care, the volunteers in both groups used a specific face cream for 28 days prior to and throughout the supplementation period, creating an equal baseline for the assessment of the efficacy of CP on several skin parameters. At baseline, day 28 and day 84, the following hallmarks of skin and nail aging were assessed: dermis density, skin moisture and elasticity, wrinkle visibility, beauty perception, and nail color. After 84 days, a significant improvement of dermis density and skin moisture was observed in the collagen peptides group compared to the placebo group. Positive effects on skin elasticity, wrinkle visibility, nail color, and overall beauty perception were already observed within 28 days of supplementation in the CP group, while the same effects in the placebo group were only observed after 84 days. Taken together, these results show that, in addition to a standardized skin care, daily supplementation with 5 g of collagen peptides positively affects visible signs of skin and nail aging in the East Asian population.

Improving Milk Yield, Milk Quality, and Follicular Functionality Behavior in Dairy Cows from the Implementation of Microencapsulated Chili Pepper Supplements in Their Diets.

The present study evaluates the effect of including microencapsulated hot chili pepper (MHCP) in the diet of crossbred dairy cows on the volume and quality of milk and on ovarian morphofunctionality. Twenty-four crossbred females in their lactating period were used. The cows were divided into two experimental groups, a control (CT) and an MHCP -supplemented group (CP) given 1 g a day per animal of microencapsulated hot chili in concentrate for 42 days. Over seven weeks of daily milk production was measured, and sample milk was collected weekly for composition analysis. Animals were subject to an ovulation synchronization protocol on day 0 (D0), and an intravaginal progesterone (P4) implant, estradiol benzoate, and prostaglandin (PGF2α) were administered. On D8, the P4 implant was removed and PGF2α, equine chorionic gonadotropin, and estradiol cypionate were administered to the animals. The ovarian dynamics were evaluated in B mode and color Doppler. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the group X time interaction, the volume of milk produced, and the amount in kg/day of milk components. There was a higher percentage of vascularization in the preovulatory follicle in the CP group (p ≥ 0.10). The findings show that the inclusion of MHCP in the diet of dairy cows does influence their milk production and reproduction.

“Occupational exposure to charcoal smoke and dust, a major risk factor for COPD: a multiregional cross-sectional study in the Democratic Republic of Congo”

Occupational exposure to charcoal smoke and dust is a threat to workers respiratory system. What is the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in charcoal workers as compared to farmers in rural areas of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)? This cross-sectional, comparative, and multi-site study was performed in the charcoal-producing provinces of South-Western DRC. We randomly included charcoal workers and compared them to farmers (18 to 70 years old). Air quality indexes, anthropometric, physical activity, sociodemographic characteristics, and related medical events data were recorded. A Lung function questionnaire was used to assess respiratory symptoms (RS) and spirometry was performed. COPD was defined as the presence of RS for more than 3 months with a FEV1/FVC ratio below the lower limit of normal. The prevalence of COPD was calculated, and logistic regression was used to identify COPD-associated factors. We included 485 subjects between August 2020 and July 2021. Charcoal Producers (CP, n = 229) were compared with farmers (n = 118), and charcoal saleswomen (CS, n = 72) were compared to vegetable saleswomen (VS, n = 66). Respective groups were similar in age, job seniority, height, and weight. The air was more polluted at charcoal workplaces. The prevalence of COPD was higher in CP than in farmers (39.7% vs 14.4%; P < 0.0001), and in CS compared to VS (40.3% vs 13.6%; P < 0.0001). Being a charcoal worker was independently associated with COPD in the CP and farmers group: adjusted OR, 3.54 (95% CI, 1.94-6.46), and, in the saleswomen group: 7.85 (95% CI, 2.85-21.5), where it was also independently associated with young age: 0.85 (0.80-0.93) and monthly income: 0.88 (0.83-0.96). In rural areas of DRC, producing or selling charcoal is associated with a higher risk of COPD.

Application of bidirectional telemedicine in home CPAP for children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

BackgroundTraditional telemedicine follow-up proves unsuitable for home continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy in children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). Accompanying advancements in mobile internet, this study explores the feasibility and effectiveness of a mobile communication and remote monitoring system as a novel bidirectional telemedicine approach to enhance adherence to home CPAP in children with OSAS. MethodsA prospective cohort utilizing bidirectional telemedicine follow-up from January to December 2022 (TM) was compared with a retrospective cohort receiving conventional phone follow-up from August 2018 to December 2021 (CP). Participants in TM group were subdivided into two groups based on the number of inquiries in the first week: a high-question group and a low-question group. The main endpoints included successful CPAP adaption and adherence at 2 months of follow-up. ResultsThe TM group exhibited a significantly lower termination rate within 2 months compared to the CP group (1/24 vs. 6/22, p = 0.037). In the first week of home CPAP, the high-question group reported shorter average nightly usage and fewer days with usage of ≥4 h compared to the low-question group (5 h per night vs. 8.5 h per night, 4.5 days vs. 7 days, both p < 0.001). However, the high-question group showed significant improvement in adherence from the second week onward for the remainder of the study period. ConclusionsBidirectional telemedicine represents an effective and feasible method to improve adherence to home CPAP therapy in children with OSAS. Considering the costs, researchers recommend applying bidirectional telemedicine for at least 1 week to better enhance long-term adherence.

Whitening toothpastes with hydrogen peroxide concentrations vs. at-home bleaching.

To evaluate the effect of whitening toothpastes with different hydrogen peroxide (HP) concentrations on HP permeability, color change, and physicochemical properties, compared to at-home bleaching treatment. Forty-nine premolars were randomized into seven groups (n = 7): untreated (control); at-home bleaching with 10% carbamide peroxide gel (AH; 10% CP) with 14 and 28 applications of 180min each (AH [14 × 180min] and AH [28 × 180min]); three whitening toothpastes (3% HP; 4% HP and 5% HP) and 10% CP brushed 28 times for 90s each (TB [28 × 90s]). HP permeability was measured using a UV-VIS spectrophotometer and color change by a digital spectrophotometer (ΔEab, ΔE00, and ΔWID). Initial concentration, pH, and viscosity were measured through titration, digital pH meter, and rheometer, respectively. Statistical analysis included one-way ANOVA, Tukey's test, and Dunnett's test (α = 0.05). 4% HP group showed acidic pH, the lowest viscosity and the highest HP concentration into the pulp chamber (p < 0.05). The 10% CP groups had lower HP in the pulp chamber and greater color change than other groups (p < 0.05), except the 5% HP group in ΔEab and ΔE00. For ΔWID, the 10% CP AH groups showed greater whitening than other groups (p < 0.05). Whitening toothpaste with up to 5% HP resulted in higher HP permeability and less color change compared to 10% CP. Higher HP commercial concentrations in toothpaste increased whitening effect; however, acidic pH toothpastes exhibited greater HP permeability. Whitening toothpastes with high hydrogen peroxide concentrations were less effective than at-home bleaching, resulting in less color change and greater permeability of hydrogen peroxide, potentially increasing the risk of tooth sensitivity.

Physiological Adaptation of Fenneropenaeus chinensis in Response to Saline-Alkaline Stress Revealed by a Combined Proteomics and Metabolomics Method.

The rapid development of the mariculture industry has been hindered by limited coastal aquaculture space. To utilize the abundant inland saline-alkaline water, we studied the physiological effects of high carbonate alkalinity stress and high pH stress on Fenneropenaeus chinensis. The study employed quantitative proteomics by tandem mass tag (TMT) and non-targeted metabolomics analysis using a liquid chromatograph mass spectrometer (LC-MS) to understand the physiological and biochemical adaptive mechanisms of the hepatopancreas of F. chinensis in response to saline-alkaline stress at the molecular level. We designed two stress groups as follows: a high carbonate alkalinity (CA) group and a combined high carbonate alkalinity and high pH (CP) group. The study found that the protein and metabolic profiles of the two stress groups were changed, and the CP group, which was exposed to dual stresses, incurred more severe damage to the hepatopancreas compared to that of the CA group. After exposure to CA and CP, the hepatopancreas of F. chinensis showed significant alterations in 455 proteins and 50 metabolites, and 1988 proteins and 272 metabolites, respectively. In addition, F. chinensis upregulated the level of energy metabolism in the hepatopancreas to defend against osmotic imbalance caused by CA or CP stress, which was demonstrated by the significant upregulation of important proteins and metabolites in glycolysis, pyruvate metabolism, TCA cycle, and fatty acid oxidation. Additionally, pattern recognition receptors, the phenol oxidase system, and various immune-related metabolic enzymes and metabolites were also affected. The immune homeostasis of F. chinensis was affected by the alteration of the antioxidant system following exposure to CA or CP. These findings provide valuable information for F. chinensis saline-alkaline water cultivation practices.

Indoxyl sulfate exacerbates alveolar bone loss in chronic kidney disease through ferroptosis.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether indoxyl sulfate (IS) is involved in alveolar bone deterioration and to elucidate the mechanism underlying alveolar bone loss in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Mice were divided into the control group, CP group (ligature-induced periodontitis), CKD group (5/6 nephrectomy), and CKD + CP group. The concentration of IS in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was determined by HPLC. The bone microarchitecture was evaluated by micro-CT. MC3T3-E1 cells were stimulated with IS, and changes in mitochondrial morphology and ferroptosis-related factors were detected. RT-PCR, western blotting, alkaline phosphatase activity assays, and alizarin red S staining were utilized to assess how IS affects osteogenic differentiation. Compared with that in the other groups, alveolar bone destruction in the CKD + CP group was more severe. IS accumulated in the GCF of mice with CKD. IS activated the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) invitro, inhibited MC3T3-E1 cell osteogenic differentiation, caused changes in mitochondrial morphology, and activated the SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling pathway. An AhR inhibitor attenuated the aforementioned changes induced by IS. IS activated the AhR/SLC7A11/GPX4 signaling pathway, inhibited osteogenesis in MC3T3-E1 cells, and participated in alveolar bone resorption in CKD model mice through ferroptosis.

Primary stability of multi-hole acetabular cup combined with posterior column plating for the fixation of complex acetabular fractures in elderly patients: a biomechanical analysis.

Acute total hip arthroplasty has gained increasing popularity in the treatment of complex acetabular fractures in elderly patients, but the biomechanical evidence is lacking. Therefore, we measured the primary stability to evaluate whether acute total hip arthroplasty using a multi-hole acetabular cup and posterior column plating through a single K-L approach can safely be used for treating complexed acetabular fractures in the elderly. In 18 composite osteoporotic hemipelves, T-type acetabular fractures were treated in three ways: CSP (Cup with acetabular screws augmentation combined with posterior plate) group, CP (Cup without acetabular screw combined with posterior plate) group and CSPA (Cup with acetabular screws combined with posterior plate and anterior plate) group. Each specimen was dynamically loaded (300 to 1700N, 1Hz). Primary stability of the acetabular cup and fracture gap was evaluated by 3-dimensional (3D) micromotions. No significant differences in the 3D-micromotions were observed among the CSP, CP and CSPA groups except the test point on the anterior column of the acetabulum in the CP scenario (CSP 49.33 ± 21.08μm vs. CP 224.83 ± 52.29μm, p < 0.001; CSPA 45.50 ± 12.16μm vs. CP 224.83 ± 52.29μm, p < 0.001). No significant differences in the fracture gap displacement on the posterior column of acetabulum were observed among the CSP, CP and CSPA groups. Our results show, that acute total hip arthroplasty using a multi-hole cup with acetabular screws and posterior column plating through single a K-L approach offers good primary stability to allow good osseous integration for treating complex acetabular fractures in the elderly. Furthermore, it also provides good fracture gap displacement on the posterior column.

Evidence of microbiota–host dysbiosis between periodontitis and cerebral small vessel disease

AbstractObjectivesTo investigate the correlation between periodontitis and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) from the clinical and microbiological aspects.Subjects and methodsPeriodontitis patients (CP group, n = 31) and CSVD patients (CSVD group, n = 30) were examined for neurological and periodontal condition. Subgingival plaque was collected and performed using 16S rRNA sequencing. Logistic regression and LASSO regression were used to analyze the periodontal parameters and subgingival microbiota related to CSVD, respectively. Inflammatory factors in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were also detected and compared between the two groups.ResultsClinical attachment level (CAL), teeth number and plaque index demonstrated a significant difference between CP and CSVD group, meanwhile, CAL was independently associated with CSVD. Besides, the microbial richness and composition were distinct between two groups. Five genera related to periodontal pathogens (Treponema, Prevotella, Streptococcus, Fusobacterium, Porphyromonas) were screened out by LASSO regression, suggesting a potential association with CSVD. Finally, the levels of inflammatory factors in GCF were statistically higher in CSVD group than those in CP group.ConclusionsCerebral small vessel disease patients demonstrated worse periodontal condition, meanwhile the interaction between microbiota dysbiosis and host factors (inflammation) leading to a better understanding of the association between periodontitis and CSVD.

Fattening Pigs with Tannin-Rich Source (Ceratonia siliqua L.) and High Doses of Vitamin E: Effects on Growth Performance, Economics, Digestibility, Physiology, and Behaviour.

This study aimed to assess the impact on growth, economic results, apparent nutrient digestibility (CTTAD), physiological variables, and animal behaviour when 214 fattening pigs (78 ± 8.5 kg of initial body weight and 130 ± 4.5 days of age) of both sexes (gilts and boars) were fed two levels of carob pulp (Cp, 0 vs. 20%) and two doses of vitamin E (Vit E, 30 vs. 300 IU/kg) for 40 days. No interaction effects between factors studied (Cp, Vit E, and sex) were observed on the variables. Most productive traits were unaffected by Cp or Vit E inclusion. However, the Cp increased the feed conversion ratio during the first 20 days. The Cp group showed a higher CTTAD of ether extract and hemicellulose but lower CTTAD of crude protein. Pigs fed Cp had a lower plasmatic urea content than the control group. The high Vit E doses increased the CTTAD of every nutrient and the plasmatic α-tocopherol content. The pigs fed Cp tended to spend more time eating in the early morning, likely to mitigate tannins' astringent effects. Dietary inclusion of 20% Cp in finishing high-conformation pigs is possible without affecting overall performance though it reduces nutrient CTTAD and increases feeding cost. Supra-nutritional doses of Vit E do not affect pig performance but increase the α-tocopherol deposition with potential antioxidant effects.

Combined analysis of estradiol and β-hCG to predict the early pregnancy outcome of FET: a retrospective study

BackgroundThe accurate prediction of pregnancy outcomes in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles is crucial. While several studies have been conducted on the predictive power of serum estradiol (E2) and β-hCG concentrations post-embryo transfer (ET) for pregnancy outcomes, there is debate on the predictive value of E2. The objective of this study was to investigate the predictive efficacy of combining serum E2 and β-hCG levels on early reproductive outcomes 12 days after embryo transfer.MethodsA total of 1521 patients with β-hCG positive values on day 12 following frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) with natural endometrial preparation cycles (NCs) were gathered in affiliated Women’s Hospital of Jiangnan University. Using logistic regression, the relationship between pregnancy outcome and early serum E2 and β-hCG concentrations was examined. The receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to assess the predictive accuracy of the serum E2 and β-hCG concentrations.ResultsNotable distinctions were observed in the serum E2 and β-hCG levels on the twelfth day following FET with NCs between the groups classified as clinical pregnancy group (CP Group) and biochemical pregnancy group (BP Group). In addition, the cutoff values for E2 and β-hCG on day 12 following FET with NCs in cleavage embryo group (CE Group) were 129.25 pg/mL and 156.60 mIU/mL, respectively. The threshold values for E2 and β-hCG for the blastocyst group (B Group) were 174.45 pg/mL and 217.70 mIU/mL. Serum E2 day12 and β-hCG day12 were found to be substantially linked with clinical pregnancy by logistic regression analysis.ConclusionsSerum E2 and β-hCG concentrations were found to be significantly different between the CP Group and BP Group in infertility women underwent FET with NCs. Our retrospective cohort study’s findings suggest that the combination of early E2 and β-hCG levels on day 12 post-FET could be used as a predictive tool to evaluate the likelihood of both positive and negative pregnancy outcomes in FET with NCs.

The Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Collagen and Vitamin C and Their Combination with Hyaluronic Acid on Skin Density, Texture and Other Parameters: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Collagen dietary supplements are becoming increasingly popular as a means to reduce signs of skin ageing. The objective of this three-way, randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind study was to examine and contrast the effects of dietary supplementation with a daily dose of 5 g hydrolysed collagen with 80 mg of vitamin C (CP product) and their combination with 30 mg of hyaluronic acid (CPHA product) over 16 weeks. Validated methods were utilised for the objective evaluation of skin parameters. In total, 87 subjects (women, 40-65 years) completed the entire trial, distributed across the groups as follows: placebo group (n = 29), CPHA group (n = 28), and CP group (n = 30). The results showed beneficial effects of both test products, with notable enhancements in dermis density, skin texture, and a reduction in the severity of wrinkles. In contrast, the administration of either of the products did not yield any significant impacts on skin elasticity or hydration. Observation of the investigated skin parameters did not show superior effects of the addition of hyaluronic acid (HA) to collagen. Therefore, the ability of supplementation with HA to improve the effects on investigated skin parameters beyond the supplementation of collagen alone cannot be confirmed.

Key periodontal pathogens may mediate potential pathogenic relationships between periodontitis and crohn’s disease

BackgroundCrohn’s disease (CD)-associated periodontitis is common. However, the role of periodontal pathogens in the Coexistence of CD and periodontal disease remains unclear.MethodsTo investigate the potential relationship mediated by periodontal pathogens between periodontitis and CD, we collected salivary samples from healthy participants (H group, n = 12), patients with CD (Ch group, n = 10), patients with periodontitis (Ps group, n = 12), and patients with Coexistence of CD and periodontal disease (Cp group, n = 12) and analyzed them by 16 S rRNA sequencing.ResultsPatients with Coexistence of CD and periodontal disease had increased levels of Fusobacterium, Actinomyces, Leptotrichia, and Prevotella, which correlated with the severity of periodontitis. Conversely, the levels of Streptococcus, Neisseria, Haemophilus, and Gemella, which decreased in Coexistence of CD and periodontal disease, were negatively correlated with the severity of periodontitis. To further investigate the role of periodontal pathogens in CD development, representative periodontal pathogens causing periodontitis, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, were administered to mice. These pathogens migrate to, and colonize, the gut, accelerating CD progression and aggravating colitis, and even systemic inflammation. In vitro experiments using a Caco-2/periodontal pathogen coculture revealed that P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum increased intestinal permeability by directly disrupting the tight junctions of intestinal epithelial cells.ConclusionOur findings strongly suggest that periodontal pathogens play a role in the relationship between periodontitis and CD. These results provide a basis for understanding the pathogenesis of Coexistence of CD and periodontal disease and may lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Chitosan nanoconjugation of GnRH analogue augments reproductive performance in Clarias magur (Hamilton, 1822)

A breeding trial was conducted to investigate the impact of a chitosan nanoconjugated formulation of Salmon gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (ChN-sGnRH-a) on the induced breeding performance of female Clarias magur (magur). A total of 72 magur breeders were divided into six treatment groups: Cn, the Negative Control (injected with bare chitosan nanoparticles); Cp, the Positive Control (injected with Gonopro-FH®, a commercially available inducing hormone, at a dose of 1 mL/kg body weight of fish); T1, injected with ChN-sGnRH-a at a dose of 1 mL/kg; T2, T1 + 10 mg/kg domperidone; T3, injected with ChN-sGnRH-a at a dose of 0.5 mL/kg; T4, T3 + 10 mg/kg domperidone. Blood was collected at 0 (before injection), 6, 12 and 18 h post-injection to determine the serum steroid profile. In the Cp treatment group, the serum steroid levels of testosterone, estradiol, and 17α, 20β-dihydroxy progesterone in the fish, displayed a sharp increase, peaking at the 6-h post-injection, followed by a significant decrease. However, the fish in the T2 and T4 treatment groups exhibited serum steroid peaks at the 12-h post-injection and maintained those levels up to the 18-h post-injection. The reproductive performance, as measured by spawning fecundity, fertilization rate, and hatching rate, was significantly higher in the T2 treatment group (p < 0.05). No significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed between the Cp and T4 treatment groups. Compared to the Cn treatment group, the mRNA expression levels of pituitary follicle stimulating hormone subunit beta and luteinizing hormone subunit beta, as well as ovarian 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3, were significantly higher in the T2 treatment group, followed by Cp and T4 treatment groups. Fish in the T2 treatment group displayed fewer mature oocytes and numerous post-ovulatory follicles in their ovaries. Additionally, the ovarian histology of fish in the T4 treatment group closely resembled that of the Cp treatment group. The results indicate that the chitosan nanoconjugated formulation of Salmon GnRH analogue might contribute to maintaining elevated levels of gonadotropic and steroid concentrations, resulting in improved reproductive output in female magur breeders. It is also revealed that the induced breeding of magur cannot be achieved without using dopamine inhibitors in GnRH analogue injection. Using chitosan nanoparticles as a nano-delivery system could reduce the Salmon GnRH analogue dose without compromising the reproductive performance of female magur breeders.