Digestion Health Research Articles

Plant extracts and essential oils in rabbit diet: A practical green-way for sustainable and resilient production systems

Rabbits, integral to global agriculture, play a significant role in meat production in many developed and developing countries. As the demand for sustainable and natural farming practices rises, the utilization of plant extracts and essential oils in rabbit nutrition has garnered attention. Both plant extracts and essential oils offer multifaceted benefits in rabbit nutrition, positively impacting growth, digestion, and immune health. This comprehensive review consolidates the current understanding of the effects of plant extracts and essential oils on rabbit health and digestion, drawing from recent scientific literature. Emphasis is also placed on growth performance, nutrient utilization, immune response, and overall well-being. The outcomes underscore the practical significance of natural feed additives, paving the way for sustainable and resilient rabbit production systems.

The Importance of Argan Oil in Medicine and Cosmetology.

Argan oil, rich in unsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols, exerts beneficial effects on both the intestinal and skin microbiotas. In the gut, it promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, such as lactobacilli, while reducing pathogenic bacteria, due to its anti-inflammatory properties that help maintain microbial balance. Additionally, it improves the integrity of the intestinal mucosa, reducing the risk of dysbiosis. On the skin, argan oil hydrates and balances the lipid environment, creating a favorable setting for beneficial microorganisms, while also possessing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe conditions like eczema and acne. Thus, argan oil is valuable for overall health, supporting digestion and skin health. The objective of this review is to provide a summary of the benefits of argan oil for alternative and complementary medicine. An exhaustive search of the literature was carried out using targeted keywords. A set of 83 articles were selected and analyzed. As the mechanisms of action of argan oil are not completely understood, this work highlighted the benefits of this oil by analyzing its nutritional properties and its beneficial effects on the intestinal and skin microbiotas. Indeed, argan oil is valuable for overall health.

Impact of dietary lysine on growth, nutrient utilization, and intestinal health in triploid rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fed low fish meal diets

Lysine is one of the essential amino acids for fish growth and development. This study investigated the effect of dietary lysine on growth performance, digestion, and intestinal health of triploid rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) (initial body weight: 9.00 ± 0.33 g) fed a low fish meal diet (15 %). Five dietary lysine levels (3.66 %, 3.84 %, 4.19 %, 4.32 %, and 4.55 %) were evaluated for 56 days, with three replicates of 30 fish per level. The results showed that the weight gain rate (198.55 %), specific growth rate (1.95), and VSI were maximized when the dietary lysine level was 4.19 %. The 4.19 % lysine group exhibited minimum moisture (66.66 %) and maximum crude protein (15.47 %), with no significant differences in crude lipid and ash contents. Growth factors mTOR and 4EBP-1, on the other hand, had the highest expression in the 4.19 % group, while IGF-1 and S6K1 peaked in the 4.32 % group. The anti-inflammatory factors TGF-β, NF-κB, IL-4, and IL-10 peaked at different levels and then decreased with increasing lysine levels. The pro-inflammatory factor IL-1β, on the other hand, had the lowest expression at the 4.19 % level. Based on quadratic regression analysis of specific growth rate, the lysine requirement of triploid O. mykiss in low fish meal diets was 4.24 %.

Quantitative and Weight Indicators of African Catfish Eggs and Larvae Development under Exposure to the Low-Power Ultrasound

Introduction. The growth of the world population and changing climate conditions on the planet induce the search for the innovative methods and technologies capable to increase the productivity and efficiency of the agricultural sector, and in particular — industrial fish-farming. In recent years, ultrasound has become one of such methods, widely used in many industries due to its unique properties and capabilities. In fish-farming, the use of ultrasound can significantly improve the processes of fish breeding by increasing the growth rate, improving digestion and overall health of fish, however, the issue of biostimulation of eggs and larvae with low-power ultrasound remains unexplored. The aim of this work is to study the biostimulation of eggs and larvae of African (clarias) catfish with ultrasound in aquariums as an advanced method of improving the growth and survival of this biological object at the early stages of its development, as well as a potential method for preventing the infectious and invasive diseases.Materials and Methods. The object of this study is an African clarias catfish, also known as the marbled clarias catfish (Clarias gariepinus). During the experiment, carried out at the fish-farm the “Marbled Catfish” Fish Farm” LLC (Lipetsk) from March to September 2023, 4 groups were formed — three experimental and one control. The eggs and larvae of the African catfish were exposed to the low-power ultrasound, in the experimental groups the exposure lasted for 30 s, 60 s and 120 s, respectively; the control group didn’t undergo any ultrasonic treatment. Biostimulation was carried out with a low-power submersible source of ultrasonic waves (0.243 W/cm2) and was performed 6 times. Sorting was carried out on the 15-th day from the start of incubation. In total, four series of experiment were carried out.Results. The first, second and third groups in all series of the experiment, according to sorting results, contained the largesized larvae of the African catfish in a percentage ratio of 44 to 46%; the percentage of the large-sized larvae in the control group was 19%. In terms of average-size, sorting gave the following result: in 1–3 experimental groups — from 52 to 54% of the total number of larvae; in the control one — 72%. For small-sized larvae, the following values were obtained: in groups 1–3 — from 2 to 3%, in the control group — 9% of the total number of larvae in the groups and series, respectively.Discussion and Conclusion. The growth and development of African catfish eggs and larvae are greatly influenced by the hydrological parameters of water: temperature, oxygenation, illumination, pH, hardness, content of hydrocarbonates, phosphates, nitrates and other chemical elements. In addition, fertilization of eggs may occur unevenly due to non-uniform mixing of eggs and milt, quality and maturity of eggs during fertilization, which can result in different quantitates of the catfish larvae output. The exposure of eggs and larvae to the ultrasound in the experiment resulted in an increase of a number of large-sized larvae, which is favourable for obtaining the fish seed material. Timely sorting of fish seed material before transferring an African catfish to the closed water supply systems reduces the cannibalism during further cultivation. The use of ultrasound in fish-farming requires further study to identify the optimal frequency of treatment and the effect on the commercial fish immunity and growth rate, which will foster the satisfaction of the growing needs of the population in the high-quality products of fishing industry.

An Overview of Apple Varieties and the Importance of Apple Consumption in the Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases—A Narrative Review

Non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and asthma are increasingly common due to factors like industrialization, urbanization, fast-paced life, stress, sedentary lifestyle, and unbalanced diet in the 21st century. These chronic conditions are a global epidemic, being among the top causes of death worldwide. Preventing these diseases through a nutritious diet is crucial, and scientific studies suggest that appropriate fruit intake, particularly apples, can lower the risk of various health issues. Apples, rich in bioactive compounds, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, offer numerous health benefits. Regular consumption of apples helps reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and diabetes, and also provides anti-asthmatic and anti-allergic effects. Apples aid in detoxification, improve digestion, enhance skin, hair, and nail health, and offer protection against cancers, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. Apples have been a dietary staple for centuries, consumed in various forms like juices, sauces, and ciders. The reviewed article emphasizes the health benefits of apples, highlighting their role in preventing civilization diseases. It also discusses the characteristics of common apple varieties and the impact of thermal processing on their nutritional content.

Studies on embryo development and larval feeding of clam Paphia textile

The present study investigated the embryonic development, growth, metamorphosis, locomotory patterns, and feeding behaviors of Paphia textile larvae, offering dietary suggestions based on observed patterns. The larvae were subjected to a dietary regimen consisting of nine microalgae species at various developmental stages (1, 4, 7, 10, 13, and 16 days post-hatching). One hour after each feeding session, their feeding patterns were carefully documented. To assess digestion, larvae that had consumed the microalgae were filtered, rinsed, and placed in filtered seawater. The embryonic development of P. textile encompassed distinct stages, including the fertilized egg, emergence of the first and second polar bodies, progression through the 2–32 cell stage, morula stage, blastula stage, gastrula stage, trochophore stage, and ultimately the D-larvae stage. Movement patterns revealed that the larvae primarily utilized their cilia for locomotion and feeding. From a transverse perspective, they moved clockwise, tracing an irregular circular path. Vertically, they exhibited spiral movements, ascending or descending as needed. As they entered the late stage, they transitioned to using reciprocal expansion of their axe feet for crawling and filtering food through their gills. Throughout their development, the larvae were fed a variety of microalgae species, including Chlorella vulgaris, Nannochloropsis oculata, Pavlova viridis, Dicrateria zhanjiangensis, and Isochrysis galbana. At 4 days old, they began consuming Dunaliella salina, and at 7 days, they incorporated Platymonas subcordiformis into their diet. By 10 days of age, they had expanded their food choices to include Chaetoceros muelleri. However, it was noted that larvae frequently suffered from indigestion or incomplete digestion when fed excessive amounts of C. vulgaris and N. oculata. Therefore, it is recommended to commence the larval culture of P. textile using P. viridis, D. zhanjiangensis, and I. galbana as the primary dietary sources. Furthermore, a feeding strategy emphasizing small, frequent meals is recommended to promote optimal digestion and larval health.

Optimizing valine supplementation in low-fish meal diets for enhanced growth, digestion, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of triploid rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

This study evaluates the effects of valine on the growth, digestion, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of triploid rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fed a low fish meal diet (10 %). The trouts with an initial body weight of 15.08±0.20 g were fed with five different isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets containing levels of valine: 0.86 % (G1), 1.79 % (G2), 2.43 % (G3), 3.02 % (G4), and 3.68 % (G5) for 56 days. The results showed that the weight growth rate and specific growth rate of the 2.43 % group were significantly higher than those of the 0.86 % control group (P<0.05). The intestinal villus length and muscle layer thickness propria were significantly increased in the 3.02 % group compared to the control group (P<0.05). The activities of intestinal protease, amylase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and lysozyme in the 2.43 % group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). The levels of interleukin-8 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were lowest in the 3.02 % group, while the IL-10 level was highest in the 3.02 % group (P<0.05). Elevated levels of valine in the dietary regimen correlated positively with the upregulation of pivotal genes associated with antioxidant mechanisms, notably nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and thioredoxin (Trx). Additionally, the expression of genes implicated in the synthesis of tight junction proteins, including occludin, claudin 7b, and claudin 15, exhibited significant augmentation with escalating valine concentrations in the feed. In conclusion, dietary valine enhanced the growth, digestive and absorptive capabilities, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of O. mykiss. An analysis based on a quadratic curve model, which incorporates specific rates of growth and weight gain, establishes that the optimal dietary valine requirement for triploid O. mykiss consuming a 10 % fish meal diet ranges between 2.43 % and 2.69 %.

Efficacy of supplementing Aspergillus awamori in enhancing growth performance, gut microbiota, digestibility, immunity, and antioxidant activity of heat-stressed broiler chickens fed diets containing olive pulp

BackgroundGut microbes play a significant role in digestion, developing immunity, and intestinal health. Therefore, direct-fed microbials are used to modify gut microbiota, maintain a healthy digestive system, enhance immunity, and promote the broilers’ performance. In addition, it has a role in improving the utilization of unconventional feed ingredients (olive pulp, OP). This study provides the potential role of Aspergillus awamori in enhancing gut microbial content, nutrient utilization, growth performance, and antioxidative status in heat-stressed broiler chickens fed diets containing olive pulp.MethodsThree hundred chicks (Ross 308; one day old) were divided into four treatment groups (75 chick/ group) randomly, as follows; CON: chicks fed a basal diet based on corn and soybean meal, OP10: chicks fed a diet containing 10% OP, OA1: chicks fed a diet containing OP with A. awamori at 100 mg per kg, OA2: chicks fed a diet containing OP with A. awamori at 200 mg per kg.ResultsAdding A. awamori to the broiler diet that contains OP had a positive effect on productive performance via enhancing nutrition digestibility, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and carcass characteristics. A. awamori supplementation had a positive impact on immune responses by increasing serum immunoglobulin G and the relative weight of bursa of Fabricius (P < 0.05) compared to the other groups. Chickens fed A. awamori showed a noticeable improvement in the oxidative status through the increase in the level of serum superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, and the decrease in the level of malondialdehyde. Feeding A. awamori also modified the intestinal microbial content by increasing the population of Lactobacillus (P < 0.05).ConclusionsOur study indicated that adding 200 mg A. awamori reduced the negative effect of heat stress by modifying the microbial content of the intestine, immune response, and enhancing feed utilization, thus improving broiler performance, as well as, improving the nutritional value of the olive pulp. Therefore, adding A. awamori to the OP diet can be effectively used in heat-stressed broiler diets.

Modulation of chicken gut microbiota for enhanced productivity and health: A review.

Microbiota in the digestive tract has become an interesting topic for researchers in recent years. The profile of chicken digestive tract microbiota and its relationship with health and production efficiency have become basic data for modulating the diversity and abundance of the digestive tract microbiota. This article reviews the techniques used to analyze the diversity, role, and function of the gastrointestinal microbiota and the mechanisms by which they are modulated. The gut microbiota plays an important role in animal production, especially during feed digestion and animal health, because it interacts with the host against pathogens. Feed modulation can be a strategy to modulate gut composition and diversity to increase production efficiency by improving growth conditions.

Bridging ancient wisdom and modern science: Exploring the symbiotic relationship between Agni and manas in Ayurveda and contemporary perspectives

This paper examines the relationship between Agni (digestive fire) and Manas (mind) from both Ayurvedic and modern scientific viewpoints. Drawing upon the rich heritage of Ayurveda, it explores the intricate connections between Agni and Manas, emphasizing their role in maintaining holistic health. Ayurvedic literature elucidates how the state of Agni influences mental well-being and vice versa, underscoring the importance of balancing both for optimal health. Furthermore, the paper integrates modern scientific research to provide insights into the physiological mechanism underlying the Agni -Manas relationship, including the Gut-Brain axis and the influence of neurotransmitters on digestion and mood. Through this Contemporary understanding, offering avenues for holistic health promotion that resonate with both traditional wisdom and scientific evidence. For this study,Review of classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charak Samhita, Sushruta Samhita and Ashtang Hridaya to understand the principles of Agni and Manas. Review of contemporary Ayurvedic literature and research articles focusing on Agni, Manas and scientific literature from books to understand relation between digestion and mental health. To investigate how Ayurvedic principles describe the interconnectedness of Agni and Manas in influencing overall health well-being. To understand how disruptions in Agni can manifest as disturbances in Manas and vice versa from both the viewpoints. The study underscores importance of recognizing and nurturing the symbiotic relationship between Agni and Manas for promoting optimal health and vitality. By embracing insights from both Ayurveda and modern science, individuals can cultivate a holistic approach to well being that integrates ancient wisdom with contemporary knowledge.

Effects of duo-strain probiotics on growth, digestion, and gut health in broiler chickens

The goal of this inquiry was to analyze the impact of incorporating Enterococcus faecium and Streptococcus thermophilus using a novel premix-spray method on the following aspects: growth rate, digestive enzyme activity, antioxidant levels, gut microbiome composition, and the morphological characteristics of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum in broiler chickens. Furthermore, this study explored the potential benefits of duo strains of probiotics (DSP) in reducing flatulence, regulating stool microbial population, and improving diarrhea symptoms. A total of 360 one-day-old mixed-sex Plymouth Rock chicks (IW: 51 ± 33 g) were randomly divided into two treatment groups. Each treatment group was further divided into 9 replicated cages, with 20 chicks housed in each cage. The control group (CG) received a basal diet composed of a soy-corn mixture, whereas the experimental group was provided with DSP (CON + 0.5 % probiotic). The results showed that the increase in the body weight of broilers at the end of the fourth week in the control group and the treatment group was 1.576 versus 1.847 kg, respectively. Throughout the 30-day trial period, the DSP diet significantly improved the specific growth rate (SGR), survival rate (SR), and body weight gain (BWG) while decreasing the feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P < 0.05). The DSP diet also enhanced the Enzymatic digestion (protease, amylase, lipase, and trypsin) and antioxidant potential (SOD, MDA, and catalase) of the broilers compared to those in the CG. The results revealed significant enhancements in the tissue morphology of the duodenum and jejunum following the combined treatment for a duration of 4 weeks. The DSP treatments significantly increased microvillus height in the duodenum and jejunum but had no notable effects in the ileum. Incorporating 0.5 % DSP in poultry feed improved the relative abundance of Ruminococcaceae and Faecalibacteriumin, leading to better management of diarrhea and reduced presence of E. coli compared to the control diet. Additionally, including probiotics in the basal diet reduced H2S, CO2, NH3, and CH4 levels. Overall, the study suggests that the new spray-drying approach with these strains has potential for supplementing probiotics in poultry feed processing, and including DSP in broiler chicken diets has beneficial effects.

Biogenic synthesis of silver, gold, and palladium nanoparticles using moringa oleifera seeds: exploring photocatalytic, catalytic, and antimicrobial activities

In this study, we explored the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles (Ag-NPs, Au-NPs, and Pd-NPs) using Moringa oleifera seed (MOS) extract, which is known for its nutrient density, antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and potential benefits in managing cholesterol, blood sugar levels, as well as promoting digestion, skin, and hair health. The nanoparticles’ size was controlled by varying the concentration of MOS extract. The successful formation of Au-NPs and Ag-NPs was confirmed through surface plasmon resonance (SPR), while the absence of absorption at 420 nm indicated the reduction of Pd2+ ions to Pd0, affirming the synthesis of Pd-NPs. The nanoparticles exhibited mono-dispersed, spherical shapes with confirmed crystallinity. Sizes were determined as 28 nm for Pd-NPs, 5 nm for Au-NPs, and 19 nm for Ag-NPs. The MOS extract’s phenols and proteins played a crucial role in reducing and stabilising Ag-NPs, Au-NPs, and Pd-NPs. Notably, the synthesised nanoparticles demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity, particularly against Salmonella typhi, making them potential antibacterial agents. The catalytic efficiency of Au-NPs, Ag-NPs and Pd-NPs was studied using the reduction of 4-Nitrophenol (4-NP) by NaBH4 to 4-Aminophenol. Additionally, Au-NPs showed enhanced photocatalytic degradation rate constant and catalytic reaction rate constant of 0.0038/min and 0.261/min respectively, due to their small size and increased surface area. By combining a green synthesis approach with an in-depth analysis of properties and diverse applications, this study provides valuable insights into the immense potential of MOS-assisted metal nanoparticles for various technological and environmental advancements.

Safety and efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a modern adjuvant therapy in various diseases and disorders: a comprehensive literature review.

The human gastrointestinal (GI) tract microbiome is a complex and all-encompassing ecological system of trillions of microorganisms. It plays a vital role in digestion, disease prevention, and overall health. When this delicate balance is disrupted, it can lead to various health issues. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an emerging therapeutic intervention used as an adjuvant therapy for many diseases, particularly those with dysbiosis as their underlying cause. Its goal is to restore this balance by transferring fecal material from healthy donors to the recipients. FMT has an impressive reported cure rate between 80% and 90% and has become a favored treatment for many diseases. While FMT may have generally mild to moderate transient adverse effects, rare severe complications underscore the importance of rigorous donor screening and standardized administration. FMT has enormous potential as a practical therapeutic approach; however, additional research is required to further determine its potential for clinical utilization, as well as its safety and efficiency in different patient populations. This comprehensive literature review offers increased confidence in the safety and effectiveness of FMT for several diseases affecting the intestines and other systems, including diabetes, obesity, inflammatory and autoimmune illness, and other conditions.

PROBIOTICS AND PREBIOTICS IN CURD AND BUTTERMILK - KEY TO AYURVEDIC GUT HEALTH

In Ayurveda, gut health is fundamental to overall well-being, with the digestive fire (Agni) playing a central role in balancing the body’s three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Curd (Dadhi) and buttermilk (Takra) are ancient dietary staples used to enhance digestion, balance the doshas, and promote gut health. Rich in probiotics and prebiotics, these fermented dairy products contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, supporting digestion, immune function, and mental health. This paper reviews the role of curd and buttermilk in Ayurvedic practices and modern microbiological research, highlighting their synergistic effects on gut health.

Gut Microbial Diversity Analysis of Different Native Chickens and Screening of Chicken-Derived Probiotics

The gut microbiota plays a critical role in the growth, development, nutritional digestion, and overall health of chickens. Furthermore, certain probiotics isolated from poultry intestines have demonstrated the potential to enhance immune function and production performance in chickens. To investigate the differences in gut microbiota among chickens from various geographical environments and different breeds of broiler and laying hens, we conducted 16S rRNA sequencing on the fecal microbiota of 140 Chinese native chickens and ten Roman layers. In addition, we isolated and screened the potential probiotics to examine their biological characteristics, genome profiles, and functionality in animals. Our findings revealed the significant variations in gut microbiota composition and structure between Tibetan chickens (ZJ), which reside in high-altitude regions, and Meihua chickens (MH) and Xuhai chickens (XH), which inhabit low-altitude regions. Specifically, Cupriavidus and Candidatus_Bacilloplasma were identified as unique microbial communities in high and low altitudes, respectively. Notably, among regions with similar altitudes, Luning chickens (LN) exhibited the lowest α diversity, accompanied by a remarkably high relative abundance of Firmicutes and Lactobacillus. Conversely, Wugu chickens (WGs) and Yaoshan chickens (YSs) displayed similar gut microbiota profiles. Furthermore, distinctive gut microbiota patterns were observed between the different breeds of broilers and laying hens. Commercial Roman layers (LMs) exhibited significantly lower alpha diversity compared to native chickens, and broilers and laying hens predominantly harbored Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Proteobacteria. Of particular interest, the probiotics Lactobacillus agilis MH1 and Lactobacillus salivarius ZJ1, derived from chicken feces, exhibited favorable genomic profiles, and demonstrated anti-colitis effects and immunomodulatory functions. These findings provide a crucial theoretical foundation for native chicken research and offer insights for the future development and formulation of chicken-derived probiotics.

Effect of temperature and foam mat drying method on the physical and chemical properties of white sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) inulin

White sweet potatoes have functional compounds that are good for the body in the form of inulin. Inulin is a soluble fiber that is very useful for digestion and body health. Several factors can affect the physical and chemical characteristics of inulin produced such as temperature and drying method. The study was conducted to determine the yield, physical, and chemical characteristics of white sweet potato inulin. The experimental design in the study used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with two factors. The extraction process is carried out by grinding sweet potatoes, mixing them with distilled water, filtering and evaporation. A variation of temperature in extraction is 40°C, 60°C, and 80° C while the foaming agent in the foam mat drying process uses 2% and 10%. The physical and chemical characteristics that were analyzed are the water absorption, solubility, availability, and moisture content of inulin. The result is that with a higher temperature and concentration of foaming agent, the yield and moisture content are getting lower while water absorption and solubility are getting higher. Whereas the analysis of availability shows that the result of all formulations is inulin even though it is assumed to have a different amount. The higher the temperature in the extraction process and the higher the concentration of foaming agent used in inulin the lower the yield.

Promotion of improved intestinal barrier health by soybean-derived bioactive peptides in Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) fed a low fishmeal diet.

To alleviate the growth inhibition, and intestinal damage of Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) induced by low fishmeal diets (LF), an 8-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the addition of dietary soybean-derived bioactive peptides (SBP) in LF diets on the regulation of growth, digestion and intestinal health. The crabs were fed isonitrogenous and isoenergetic conventional diet and LF diets (10 % fishmeal replaced by soybean meal, LF) supplemented with 0, 1 %, 2 %, 4 % and 6 % SBP, respectively. The results showed that LF diet inhibited growth while inclusion of SBP quadratically remitted the growth inhibition induced by LF. For digestive function, increasing addition level of SBP quadratically improved the α-amylase and trypsin activities. For antioxidant function, LF group significantly increased the malondialdehyde content, while SBP linearly decreased the malondialdehyde level and cubically increased the anti-superoxide anion activity and total antioxidant capacity level. For intestinal health, the peritrophic membrane (PM) almost completely separated from the inner wall of the intestinal lumen, the epithelial cells reduced, the muscularis became thinner and the apoptotic signals increased in LF group; with SBP addition, the intestinal morphology was improved, with the PM adhering to the inner wall of the intestinal lumen, an increase in the number of epithelial cells and an increase in the thickness of the muscularis. Additionally, there was a decrease in apoptotic signals. Dietary SBP also increased the expression of PT and Crustin1 quadratically and decreased the expression of ALF1 linearly, ALF3 and ILF2 quadratically.

The Role of Dragon Fruit Consumption (Hylocereus polyrhizus) against Plaque Reduction in Students at SD Negeri 106806 Cinta Rakyat, Percut Sei Tuan District, Deli Serdang Regency, Indonesia

Dragon fruit contains fiber, which is good for digestion and oral health. Fiber can help clean teeth by binding to plaque and food particles that can cause gum disease. The vitamin C contained in dragon fruit is a powerful antioxidant and can help strengthen gum tissue. This can help prevent gum inflammation (gingivitis), which is the initial stage of gum disease. Because dragon fruit has a high water content, consuming this fruit can also help maintain oral moisture, which is important for healthy teeth. A dry mouth can increase the risk of plaque formation. This study aimed to determine the potential for consuming dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) against plaque reduction in students at SD Negeri 106806 Cinta Rakyat, Percut Sei Tuan District, Deli Serdang Regency, Indonesia. This study is experimental research with a one-group pre and post-test approach. This study uses primary data obtained from measuring the degree of plaque on the teeth of research subjects. A total of 30 research subjects participated in this study, where the research subjects met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that the dental plaque scores of students at SD Negeri 106806, Cinta Rakyat, Percut Sei Tuan District, Deli Serdang Regency, decreased significantly before and after eating dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus), with a value of p=0.0001 (p≤0.05). These results indicate that there is an influence of dragon fruit consumption (Hylocereus polyrhizus) on reducing dental plaque in research subjects.

Neuromuscular control of masticatory muscles in people with intellectual disability, middle-aged adults and older adults.

Motor control issues are common for people with intellectual disabilities (PWID), resulting in difficulties with basic activities of daily living, including eating. Mastication, which is crucial for digestion and overall health, is poorly understood in this population. PWID shows frailty similar to older people, highlighting the importance of comparing masticatory motor control with older adults. This study compared the neuromuscular control of the masticatory muscles in middle-aged, PWID and older adults. A cross-sectional analytical design was used. During the mastication task of a carrot piece (2cm in diameter and weighing 0.5g), surface electromyography was used to record muscle activity patterns from the right and left masseter and temporalis muscles. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to assess neuromuscular control. A z-score normalisation of the first component's variance from PCA to identify those individuals with altered neuromuscular control. A mixed ANOVA was performed to assess the interaction between principal components, groups and body composition. Thirty PWIDs (aged 35-55years), middle-aged adults and 32 older adults were recruited. PWID and older adults showed decreased neuromuscular control of the masticatory muscles compared to middle-aged control adults (P<0.05). PWID had the highest proportion of individuals with altered neuromuscular control of the masticatory muscle (53%) compared to older adults (19%) and middle-aged adults (0%) (P<0.05). Our results indicate that PWID and older adults have reduced neuromuscular control compared to middle-aged adults. Notably, a significant proportion of the PWID showed altered masticatory muscle control compared to older adults. Further research is needed to explore the potential benefits of masticatory muscle training for PWID.

Effects of dietary Clostridium butyricum on the growth performance, digestion, and intestinal health of spotted sea bass (Lateolabrax maculatus).

Clostridium butyricum (CB) is known to promote growth, enhance immunity, promote digestion, and improve intestinal health. In this study, we investigated the effects of CB in the feed on growth performance, digestion, and intestinal health of juvenile spotted sea bass. To provide a theoretical basis for the development and application of CB in the feed of spotted sea bass, a total of 450 spotted sea bass with an initial body weight of (9.58 ± 0.05) g were randomly divided into six groups. Gradient levels with 0, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, and 0.5% of CB (1×109 cfu/g) were supplemented into diets, designated as CC, CB1, CB2, CB3, CB4, and CB5, respectively. Each group was fed for 54 days. Our results suggest that dietary 0.2% and 0.3% of CB can significantly increase the weight gain (WG) and specific growth rate (SGR) of spotted sea bass. The addition of CB significantly increased intestinal amylase activity, intestinal villus length, intestinal villus width, and intestinal muscle thickness. Similarly, CB supplementation increased the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-8 (IL-8). Sequence analysis of the bacterial 16S rDNA region showed that dietary CB altered the intestinal microbiota profile of juvenile spotted sea bass, increasing the dominant bacteria in the intestine and decreasing the harmful bacteria. Overall, dietary addition of CB can improve growth performance, enhance intestinal immunity, improve intestinal flora structure, and comprehensively improve the health of spotted sea bass.