Fecal Frequency Research Articles

Qi Lang formula relieves constipation via targeting SCF/c-kit signaling pathway: An integrated study of network pharmacology and experimental validation

BackgroundConstipation is one of the chronic gastrointestinal functional diseases that affects the quality of life. While Qi Lang Formula (QLF) has demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating constipation symptoms, its precise mechanism remains elusive. MethodsQLF was analyzed using UPLC-MS/MS. Targets for QLF were collected from SwissADME, Herb, ITCM databases, and constipation-related targets from scRNA-seq and Genecards databases. Overlapping targets suggested potential QLF therapy targets for constipation. Enrichment analysis used the KOBAS database. A "drug-ingredient-target" network was constructed with Cytoscape, and AutoDock verified active ingredient binding. H&E staining assessed colonic mucosa changes, TEM examined ICC structural changes. ELISA measured neurotransmitter levels, and Western blot verified QLF's effect on target proteins. ICC proliferation was observed through immunofluorescence. ResultsWe identified 89 targets of QLF associated with ICC-related constipation, with c-Kit emerging as the pivotal target. Molecular docking studies revealed that Atractylenolide Ⅲ, Apigenin, Formononetin, Isorhamnetin, Naringenin, and Ononin exhibited strong binding affinities for the c-Kit structural domain. QLF significantly enhanced first stool passage time, fecal frequency, fecal moisture content, and intestinal propulsion rate. Further analysis unveiled that QLF not only restored neurotransmitter levels but also mitigated colon muscular fiber ruptures. ICC ultrastructure exhibited partial recovery, while Western blot confirmed upregulated c-Kit expression and downstream targets. Immunofluorescence results indicated ICC proliferation post QLF treatment in rat colon. ConclusionOur findings suggest that QLF may promote ICC proliferation by targeting SCF/c-Kit and its downstream signaling pathway, thereby regulating intestinal motility.

Evaluation of Medicago sativa ethanol leaf extract for antidiarrheal activity in Wistar rats

Aim: Medicago sativa leaf is traditionally used for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders in Nigeria. This research investigates the in vivo antidiarrheal activity of M. sativa (Alfalfa) leaf extract in Wistar rats. Method: The study employed three models: castor oil-induced diarrhea, gastrointestinal motility (charcoal meal), and castor oil-induced intestinal fluid accumulation. The phytochemical analysis as well acute toxicity tests were carried out in the leaf extract. Results: The results demonstrate a dose-dependent and significant antidiarrheal effect of M. sativa leaf extract. In the castor oil-induced diarrhea model, the extract reduced fecal frequency, delayed onset, and lowered severity, with the highest effect at 600 mg/kg compared to a positive control (Loperamide). Gastrointestinal motility was inhibited by the extract in a dose-dependent manner, achieving maximum effect at 600 mg/kg, comparable to atropine sulfate. The castor oil-induced intestinal fluid accumulation model revealed a significant decrease in fluid volume at 600 mg/kg, exhibiting a potent inhibitory effect. The oral LD50 values obtained were greater than 5000 mg/kg in rats Conclusion: This study provides compelling evidence of Medicago sativa leaf extract's potential as an antidiarrheal agent in Wistar rats. Further investigations could explore its mechanism of action and safety profile, contributing valuable insights to the development of novel antidiarrheal therapies.

Detection of typical indigenous gut bacteria related to kanpyo Lagenaria siceraria var. hispida powder in murine caecum and human faecal cultures.

Kanpyo (KP) is an edible dried product produced by peeling the fruit of the gourd Lagenaria siceraria var. hispida; it is used in the traditional Japanese cuisine. The health functionality of KP due to its rich dietary fibre is expected to include a possible combined effect of KP-responsive indigenous gut bacteria (KP-RIB). However, its effect on the gut microbiota is unclear. To determine the effects of the KP on the gut microbiota and their host, Institute of Cancer Research mice were fed a high-sucrose diet containing no fibre (NF) or 5% (w/w) KP for 14days, and their caecal microbiota was analysed by 16S rRNA (V4) amplicon sequencing. Higher faecal frequency and weight and lower spleen weight and spleen tumour necrosis factor-α levels were observed in KP-fed mice than in NF-fed mice (p < 0.05). KP increased and decreased the abundance of short-chain fatty acid producer Lachnospiraceae and obesity-inflammation related Allobaculum species, respectively. In the case of human faecal cultures, stool samples from five healthy volunteers were inoculated and incubated at 37°C for 24h anaerobically; 3.2% (w/v) KP suppressed putrefactive compounds (indole, phenol, and ammonia). KP increased butyrate-producer Faecalibacterium, acetate/lactate-producer Bifidobacterium, and Lachnospira. Furthermore, KP cultures showed high antioxidant and RAW264.7 macrophage cell activation capacities. These results suggest that KP-RIB and KP intake may synergistically affect host health. However, further studies are required to clarify the synergistic effects of KP and KP-RIB.

Adjunctive efficacy of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis XLTG11 for functional constipation in children

Functional constipation (FC) can seriously affect the physical and mental health of children. The goal of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis XLTG11 in treating FC in children through a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled approach. Eligible children were randomized into either the intervention group (IG, n = 65, receiving conventional treatment with probiotics) or the control group (CG, n = 66, receiving conventional treatment without probiotics). The primary outcome measure was fecal frequency. Fecal gut microbiota analysis and PICRUSt (Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States) were used to predict gene family abundances based on 16S information. Over the course of treatment, the weekly frequency of feces within each group increased significantly (F = 41.97, p < 0.001). The frequency of feces (times/week (t/w)) in the IG was significantly higher than that in the CG (3.69 ± 2.62 t/w vs.3.18 ± 1.43 t/w, 4.03 ± 2.54 t/w vs. 2.89 ± 1.39 t/w and 3.74 ± 2.36 t/w vs. 2.94 ± 1.18 t/w and 3.45 ± 1.98 vs. 3.17 ± 1.41 t/w for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th week after intervention, respectively) (F = 7.60, p = 0.0067). After the intervention, dominate species shifted to Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium breve, and Escherichia coli in the IG. Additionally, genes related to short-chain fatty acid (SCF) metabolism were upregulated, while methane metabolism was downregulated. Administration of XLTG11 at a dose of 1 × 1010 CFU/day to children increased fecal frequency, induced beneficial changes in gut microbiota, and regulated SCFs and methane metabolism–related genes.

Tolerability of long-term cannabidiol supplementation to healthy adult dogs.

Cannabidiol (CBD) has therapeutic potential in companion animals. Shorter-term studies have determined that CBD is well tolerated in dogs with mild adverse effects and an increase in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. There is need to assess CBD's long-term tolerability. Determine the long-term tolerability of CBD administered PO to healthy dogs for 36 weeks at dosages of 5 and 10 mg/kg body weight (BW)/day. Our hypothesis was that CBD would be well tolerated by dogs. Eighteen healthy adult beagle dogs were randomly assigned to 3 groups of 6 each that received 0, 5, or 10 mg/kg BW/day CBD PO. Dogs were adapted to their housing for 3 weeks and received treatment for 36 weeks once daily with food. Adverse events (AEs) were recorded daily. Blood biochemistry profiles were monitored every 4 weeks. Data were analyzed as repeated measures over time using a mixed model, with significance at α = 0.05. The 0 and 5 mg/kg treatment groups had similar fecal scores, and the 10 mg/kg treatment group had higher frequency of soft feces. No other significant AEs were noted. An increase (P < .0001) in ALP activity occurred in groups that received CBD. Remaining blood variables were within reference range. Chronic administration of CBD in healthy dogs at 5 mg/kg was better tolerated than 10 mg/kg, and both dosages caused an increase in ALP activity. Although our data does not indicate hepatic damage, it is recommended to monitor liver function in dogs receiving CBD chronically.

232 Evaluation of Clay-Based Binders and in-Feed Antimicrobial on Growth Performance and Biological Measurements in Nursery Pigs

Abstract AbstractBarrows (n = 360; 200×400, DNA; initial BW = 6.5 ± 0.04 kg) were used in a 42-day study to evaluate clay-based binders or an in-feed antimicrobial on growth performance and biological measurements including fecal and blood analysis in nursery pigs. Pigs were weaned at approximately 21-day of age and randomly allotted to 1 of 4 dietary treatments in a completely randomized design. There were 5 pigs per pen and 18 replications per treatment. Dietary treatments were corn-soybean meal-based and fed in two phases from d 0 to 9 (Phase 1) and 9 to 21 (Phase 2) after weaning. Either clay-binders (Proteck, 0.40% of the diet; Nutriquest, Mason City, IA; Protect-8 Plus, 0.10% of the diet; Essential Ag Solutions, Sioux Falls, SD), or an antimicrobial (0.04% of the diet; Avilamycin (Kavault); Elanco, Greenfield, IN) were added to the control diet to create the experimental treatments. A common phase 3 diet was fed to all pigs from d 21 to 42. Overall (d 0 to 42), pigs fed Avilamycin had increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) final BW, ADG and ADFI compared with all other treatments. There was evidence that frequency of fecal scores with softer feces increased over time (P &amp;lt; 0.001), with d 21 having the greatest frequency of diarrhea and soft feces (Table). Fecal E. coli colony count was less (P &amp;lt; 0.001) on d 21 compared with d 9 (2.04 vs. 4.03 Log10, respectively). For fecal myeloperoxidase (MPO), concentrations were less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) on d 21 compared with d 6 and 9 (0.014, 0.059, and 0.045 nmole∙min-1∙mL-1, respectively). For fecal DM, pigs fed Avilamycin had decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) DM percentage compared with all other treatments. Fecal DM percentage was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) on d 6 and 9 compared with d 21 (26.64, 27.63, and 24.88%, respectively). Correlation coefficients were used to further characterize the relationships between biological measurements in the nursery period. There was a strong negative correlation between fecal DM and score (P &amp;lt; 0.001) on d 6, 9, and 21 indicating that as fecal DM increased, the score became closer to 0, representing a firmer fecal sample. Fecal DM on d 6 and fecal DM on d 9 were negatively correlated with ADG from d 0 to 9 meaning that as growth rate increased, fecal DM decreased. In summary, pigs fed Avilamycin had increased BW, ADG, and ADFI compared with those fed the 2 clay-based additives or the control diet. There were no treatment effects on fecal score, fecal MPO, or blood measurements. However, fecal consistency was softer and fecal E. coli colony count and MPO had lower concentrations on d 21 compared with samples collected earlier in the nursery phase.

Antidiarrheal activities of methanolic crude extract and solvent fractions of the root of Verbascum sinaiticum Benth. (Scrophularaceae) in mice

BackgroundIn Ethiopian traditional medicine, V. sinaiticum is one of the most often utilized medicinal herbs for the treatment of diarrhea. Therefore, this study was conducted to validate the use of the plant for the treatment of diarrhea in the traditional medical practice of Ethiopia. MethodsCastor oil-induced diarrhea, enteropooling, and intestinal motility test models in mice were used to evaluate the antidiarrheal properties of the 80% methanol crude extract and the solvent fractions of the root component of V. sinaiticum. The effects of the crude extract and the fractions on time for onset, frequency, weight, and water content of diarrheal feces, intestinal fluid accumulation, and intestinal transit of charcoal meal were evaluated and compared with the corresponding results in the negative control. ResultsThe crude extract (CE), aqueous fraction (AQF), and ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) at 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001) significantly delayed the onset of diarrhea. Besides, the CE and AQF at 200 and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001) of the doses, and EAF at 200 (p < 0.01) and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001) significantly decreased the frequency of diarrheal stools. Furthermore, CE, AQF, and EAF at their three serial doses (p < 0.001), significantly reduced the weights of the fresh diarrheal stools as compared to the negative control. The CE and AQF at 100 (p < 0.01), and 200 and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001) of their doses and EAF at 200 (p < 0.01) and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001) significantly decreased the fluid contents of diarrheal stools compared to the negative control. In the enteropooling test, the CE at 100 (p < 0.05), and 200 and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001), AQF at 200 (P < 0.05) and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.01), and EAF at 200 (p < 0.01) and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001) significantly decreased the weights of intestinal contents compared to the negative control. Additionally, the CE at 100 and 200 (p < 0.05) and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001), AQF at 100 (p < 0.05), 200 (p < 0.01), and 400 mg/kg (p < 0.001) of the doses, and EAF at 400 mg/kg (p < 0.05), produced significant reductions in the volumes of intestinal contents. In the intestinal motility test model, the CE, AQF, and EAF at all their serial doses (p < 0.001), significantly suppressed the intestinal transit of charcoal meal and peristaltic index compared to the negative control. ConclusionOverall, the results of this study showed that the crude extract and the solvent fractions of the root parts of V. sinaiticum had considerable in vivo antidiarrheal activities. Besides, the crude extract, especially at 400 mg/kg, produced the highest effect followed by the aqueous fraction at the same dose. This might indicate that the bioactive compounds responsible for the effects are more of hydrophilic in nature. Moreover, the antidiarrheal index values were increased with the doses of the extract and the fractions, suggesting that the treatments might have dose-dependent antidiarrheal effects. Additionally, the extract was shown to be free of observable acute toxic effects. Thus, this study corroborates the use the root parts of V. sinaiticum to treat diarrhea in the traditional settings. Furthermore, the findings of this study are encouraging and may be used as the basis to conduct further studies in the area including chemical characterization and molecular based mechanism of actions of the plant for its confirmed antidiarrheal effects.

Defecation status, intestinal microbiota, and habitual diet are associated with the fecal bile acid composition: a cross-sectional study in community-dwelling young participants

PurposeBile acid (BA) metabolism by intestinal bacteria is associated with the risk of gastrointestinal diseases; additionally, its control has become a modern strategy for treating metabolic diseases. This cross-sectional study investigated the influence of defecation status, intestinal microbiota, and habitual diet on fecal BA composition in 67 community-dwelling young participants.MethodsFeces were collected for intestinal microbiota and BA analyses; data about defecation status and dietary habits were collected using the Bristol stool form scales and a brief-type self-administered diet history questionnaire, respectively. The participants were categorized into four clusters based on their fecal BA composition, according to cluster analysis, and tertiles based on deoxycholic acid (DCA) and lithocholic acid (LCA) levels.ResultsThe high primary BA (priBA) cluster with high fecal cholic acid (CA) and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) levels had the highest frequency of normal feces, whereas the second BA (secBA) cluster with high levels of fecal DCA and LCA had the lowest. Alternately, the high-priBA cluster had a distinct intestinal microbiota, with higher Clostridium subcluster XIVa and lower Clostridium cluster IV and Bacteroides. The low-secBA cluster with low fecal DCA and LCA levels had the lowest animal fat intake. Nevertheless, the insoluble fiber intake of the high-priBA cluster was significantly higher than that of the high-secBA cluster.ConclusionHigh fecal CA and CDCA levels were associated with distinct intestinal microbiota. Conversely, high levels of cytotoxic DCA and LCA were associated with increased animal fat intake and decreased frequency of normal feces and insoluble fiber intake.Clinical trial registryUniversity Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Center system (UMIN000045639); date of registration: 15/11/2019.

Effect of β-Mannanase Addition during Whole Pigs Fattening on Production Yields and Intestinal Health

The presence of β-mannans in feed can produce a futile and chronic immune stimulation in fattening pigs. In this trial, a 1-4-endo-D-β-mannanase was added to the feed (HC) during growth and fattening (0.03% of Hemicell HT) and physical performance and pathological data were recorded, and intestinal integrity and immune activation were studied by molecular biomarkers, compared to a control group (CON). The treatment diet was reduced in energy content by 40 Kcal/kg NE. From each group, 113 and 112 animals housed in 8 pens were individually identified and weighed three times: at 7th, 63rd and 116th days in feed. The FCR was calculated for groups of two pens and ADG individually. There was no difference in ADG (CON = 0.836, HC = 0.818) nor in FCR between groups (p = 0.486). During growth, there was a higher frequency of normal feces in HC and there were also no differences in the frequency of gastric lesions. A significant increase in Claudin, Occludin, IFN-γ and IL8 was observed in the CON in feces and a significant decrease in IL-6 in HC. In tissues, there were differences for IL-12p40, TNF-alpha in jejunum (increased CON) and TGF-β in ileum and jejunum, (decreased HC). The economic performance was EUR 4.7 better in the treated group. In conclusion, the addition of 1-4-endo-D-β--mannanase to the feed with a 1.6% reduction in net energy compared to the control, allowed the animals to perform as well as the animals on the higher energy diet, with lower prevalence of diarrhea.

Associations between intestinal microbiota, fecal properties, and dietary fiber conditions: The Japanese traditional medicine Junchoto ameliorates dietary fiber deficit-induced constipation with F/B ratio alteration in rats.

Changes in the intestinal microbiota are known to occur in constipated patients. Dietary fiber restriction presents obstacles to appropriate defecation and affects fecal properties, but the relationship between fecal microbiota and fecal morphological properties remains obscure. Therefore, we examined the influence of fiber diets on the fecal microbiome and properties in rats, and the effectiveness of the Japanese traditional medicine Junchoto (JCT) in rats with fiber deficit-induced constipation. Rats were fed three different fiber diets with varying cellulose contents (0%, FFD; 5%, ND; 15%, HFD), respectively, as follows: study 1: 21 days of feeding; study 2: 14 days of feeding followed by 7 days of ND (fiber normalization in all groups); study 3: FFD for 21 days, followed by JCT administration from 14 days. Fecal properties and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing results were examined. We observed that the fecal frequency, dry weight, and length were increased, and water ratio were decreased in a cellulose dose-dependent manner. The difference in several kinds of fecal microbiota, but not the α-diversity Chao1 index and the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio (F/B ratio), between groups were observed. The change in fecal property in both the HFD and FFD groups was ameliorated with fiber normalization, accompanied by alteration of the Chao1 index and/or F/B ratio. JCT administration reversed the fecal morphological changes in FFD group, accompanied by F/B ratio increasing. In conclusion, short-term dietary changes modulated microbial homeostasis, which is linked to fecal property. JCT may alter the F/B ratio and improve fecal properties to facilitate easier excretion.

Effect of transcutaneous abdominal electrical stimulation in people with constipation due to spinal cord injuries: a pilot study.

To evaluate the effect of abdominal electrical stimulation (EE) on bowel movement frequency and feces consistency and expelled amount in people with constipation due to spinal cord injuries (SCI). This is an experimental, crossover, randomized pilot study with two treatment groups: conventional intestinal rehabilitation and conventional rehabilitation associated with EE via 8- and 20-Hz Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) of the abdominal muscles. Both groups were followed for two weeks with daily 30-minute EE sessions. Participants were hospitalized in a rehabilitation institute in the municipality of São Paulo. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. This study included 10 people with SCI, of which most were male (70%), with a mean age of 39 years (SD = 16.37). EE, associated with conventional treatment, was more effective in increasing defecation frequency (p = 0.029) and amount of feces expelled (p = 0.031). Abdominal EE, associated with conventional treatment, helped to increase defecation frequency and amount of feces expelled in people with constipation due to SCI. This pilot study will serve as the basis for a future clinical trial with greater sampling and statistical evidence.

Evaluation of Clay-Based Binders and In-Feed Antimicrobials on Growth Performance and Biological Measurements in Nursery Pigs

A total of 360 barrows (DNA 200 × 400; initially 14.2 ± 0.08 lb) were used in a 42-d growth study to evaluate clay-based binders or an in-feed antimicrobial on growth performance and biological measurements including fecal and blood analysis in nursery pigs. Pigs were weaned at approximately 21 d of age and randomly allotted to 1 of 4 dietary treatments in a completely randomized design. There were 5 pigs per pen and 18 replications per treatment. Dietary treatments were corn-soybean meal-based and fed in two phases from d 0 to 9 (phase 1) and 9 to 21 (phase 2) after weaning. Either Protek (0.40% of the diet; Nutriquest, Mason City, IA); Protect-8 Plus (0.10% of the diet; Essential Ag Solutions, Sioux Falls, SD); or Kavault (0.04% of the diet; Avilamycin; Elanco, Greenfield, IN) were added to the control diet to create the experimental treatments. A common phase 3 diet was fed to all pigs from d 21 to 42. Overall (d 0 to 42), pigs fed Kavault had increased (P < 0.05) final BW, ADG, and ADFI compared to all other treatments. There was evidence that frequency of fecal scores with softer feces increased over time (P < 0.001), with d 21 having the greatest frequency of diarrhea and soft feces. Fecal Escherichia coli colony count was lower (P < 0.001) on d 21 compared to d 9. For fecal myeloperoxidase (MPO), concentrations were lower (P < 0.05) on d 21 compared to d 6 and 9. For fecal DM, pigs fed Kavault had decreased (P < 0.05) DM percentage compared to all other treatments. Fecal DM percentage was higher (P < 0.05) on d 6 and 9 compared to d 21. No differences (P > 0.10) were observed across treatments for fecal scores, fecal E. coli colony count, fecal MPO or virulence genes associated with E. coli. Similarly, no differences (P > 0.10) were observed across treatments for TNF-alpha and IL-6 blood assays. For IL-6, concentrations were greater (P < 0.05) on d 9 compared to d 21. In summary, pigs fed Kavault had increased BW, ADG, and ADFI, compared to those fed the 2 clay-based additives or the control diet. There were no treatment effects on fecal score, fecal MPO, or blood measurements. However, we observed a day effect indicating that feces were softer and had less DM on d 21 compared to d 6 and 9. Additionally, fecal E. coli colony count and MPO had lower concentrations of d 21 compared to d 9. There was a strong negative correlation between fecal DM and score (P < 0.001) on d 6, 9, and 21 indicating that as fecal DM increased, the score became closer to 0, representing a firmer fecal sample. Fecal DM on d 6 and fecal DM on d 9 were negatively correlated with ADG from d 0 to 9 meaning that as growth rate increased, fecal DM decreased.

Copper and zinc hydroxychloride cosupplementation improve growth performance and carcass and reduce diarrhea frequency in grower-finisher pigs.

This study investigated copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) hydroxychloride cosupplementation on the growth performance, diarrhea frequency, carcass, meat quality, and antioxidant activity in grower-finisher pigs. A total of 256 pigs were used from 70 to 154 days (d) of age, distributed in four treatments, with eight pigs in each pen and eight replications per treatment. Diets were provided to grower pigs from 70 to 112 days old and in the finisher, 112 to 154 days old. Copper was considered the low level at 100 mg Cu/kg and 90 mg Cu/kg, respectively, and 150 mg Cu/kg in both periods as high in the grower and finisher periods. In the grower and finisher period, zinc was cosupplemented in the diet at 80 mg Zn/kg and 70 mg Zn/kg, respectively. In the diets, T1 and T2 groups are the traditional inorganic sources for minerals (copper sulfate, CuSO4; zinc oxide, ZnO) and T3 and T4 hydroxychloride sources (copper hydroxychloride, CHC, and zinc hydroxychloride, ZHC). The flavomycin was associated with treatments with low Cu content in the inclusion of 50 g/ton. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, the data were submitted to analysis of PROC MIXED in SAS, the PDIFF test analyzed the treatment effect. At the finisher period, pigs fed both minerals from hydroxychloride source had a higher BW 154 d, average daily gain (ADG) 70 to 154 d, the hot and cold carcass weight and frequency of normal feces than those fed 150 mg Cu/kg and Zn from a traditional inorganic source (P < 0.05). The animals fed low Cu levels of the sulfate source had a higher ADG 70 to 154 d than those fed high Cu levels of the same source (P < 0.05). Pigs fed 150 mg Cu/kg cosupplemented with Zn from a hydroxychloride source had the highest carcass length (P < 0.05). There was no difference among the treatments for meat quality (P > 0.05). Pigs fed 150 mg Cu/kg and Zn from a traditional inorganic source had a higher superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity than the other treatments (P < 0.05). Animals fed low Cu levels from hydroxychloride had a higher malondialdehyde (MDA) formation than those fed sulfate source, regardless of the Cu levels and those fed high Cu levels of hydroxychloride (P < 0.05). In conclusion, 150 mg Cu/kg as copper sulfate cosupplemented to zinc oxide in the diet of growing and finishing pigs impairs the growth performance, carcass and increases diarrhea frequency, and copper and zinc hydroxychloride cosupplementation improves these characteristics.

Assessment of Antidiarrheal and Superoxide Scavenging Activities of Ethanolic Frond Extract from Stenochlaena palustris Bedd.

The present study aimed to evaluate the antidiarrheal and superoxide scavenging activities of ethanolic extract of Stenochlaena palustris, an edible fern from Blechnaceae family. The antidiarrheal activity was determined against castor oil induced diarrhea model, gastrointestinal transit and enteropooling tests in Swiss albino mice. The test groups received various doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, body weight) of the extract, whereas positive control received loperamide (3 mg/kg, b.w.) and negative control was supplied with 1% tween-80 in distilled water (10 mL/kg, b.w.). At three test doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg), the extract showed significant (p 0.001) and dose dependent antidiarrheal activity in all models. The delay and reduction in the onset, frequency, and weight of diarrheic feces as well as inhibition of the gastrointestinal transit and intraluminal fluid accumulation were observed in all models and highly comparable to the standard loperamide. The extract also exhibited high inhibitory ability to scavenge superoxide anion (O₂SUP• –/SUP). The highest percentage inhibition of superoxide anion was found to be 84.32 ± 0.15% at the concentration 800 μg/mL.

Effect of Lactobacillus casei fermented Senna tora L. seeds and its active compound via muscarinic M3 signaling on the improvement of intestinal function in rats

We previously reported the potential of Senna tora L. seeds fermented by Lactobacillus casei (FSL) as a laxative agent in a loperamide-induced constipation rat model. Here, we examine the mechanism of action of FSL and its bioactive compound, revealed herein, on loperamide-induced constipation Sprague Dawley rat model. We identified the compound aurantio-obtusin (AO) using HPLC quantitative analysis. Rats were randomly assigned to six experimental groups (eight rats each)-normal and constipated groups (loperamide, FSL [100, 300, 500 mg/kg], and AO [1 mg/kg]). The FSL and AO-treated group showed an increase in the frequency, amount, and water content of feces in the constipated rat. Moreover, FSL and AO increased the intestinal transit speed in the constipated rat. Histological analysis revealed that FSL and AO recovered the intestinal mucus, the number of goblet cells, as well as thickness of the mucosa layer and muscle. Furthermore, the protein levels of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M3, which is involved in intestine contraction, were recovered in the FSL and AO-treated group. Its downstream signaling pathway (p-protein kinase C) was recovered by FSL and AO treatment. In conclusion, fermentation of S. tora L. seeds increases AO, which improves intestinal function, indicating that FSL is effective for treating constipation.

Comparative Effects of Milk Containing A1 versus A2 β-Casein on Health, Growth and β-Casomorphin-7 Level in Plasma of Neonatal Dairy Calves.

Simple SummaryBovine milk generally contains two types of the milk protein β-casein, A1 and A2. Enzymatic digestion of the A1 type yields the opioid peptide β-casomorphin-7, which is suggested to adversely affect human and animal health. This study aimed to compare the effects of milk containing either homozygote A1 or A2 β-casein on health and growth parameters in 47 dairy calves during the first three weeks of life. Additionally, we studied, for the first time, the levels of intact β-casomorphin-7 in plasma of calves fed milk of alternative β-casein genotypes. Milk feeding of “A2-milk” led to a lower milk intake and a looser fecal consistency (higher prevalence of diarrhea) compared to “A1-milk”. Nevertheless, weight gains and end weights of calves of both feeding groups were similar, which might be caused by the associated higher protein content of milk containing the A2 variant. Intact β-casomorphin-7 was detected in plasma after A1- and A2-milk consumption, but was almost 5 times higher for A1-calves. In summary, A2-milk minimized the cleavage of the opioid peptide β-casomorphin-7 and might have advantages in the development of pre-weaned dairy calves.Research has shown that digestion of A1 β-casein (β-CN) affects gastrointestinal motility and opioid activity through the release of the peptide β-casomorphin-7 (β-CM7). In the case of the A2 variant, the cleavage of β-CM7 does not occur or occurs at a very low rate. Therefore, the aim of the study was to compare the effects of milk containing either homozygote A1 or A2 β-CN on health and growth parameters of dairy calves. Forty-seven neonatal calves (24 females, 23 males) of the breeds German Holstein (GH, n = 9), German Simmental (GS, n = 33) and their crossing (GH × GS, n = 5) were used in a 21-day feeding study. Fecal score (FS), respiratory frequency (RF), and rectal body temperature (BT) were recorded daily, whereas body weight was measured at birth and at day 21 to estimate the average daily weight gain (ADG). Additionally, blood was collected from calves three times during the experimental period and, for the first time, the respective plasma samples were analyzed for intact β-CM7. Consumption of A2-milk led to a lower daily milk intake (dMI) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, fecal consistency was softer for calves fed A2-milk (p < 0.05). Although 44% of A2-calves had diarrhea or revealed a tendency towards it (FS ≥ 3), A1-calves had a prevalence of 21%. Calves with a FS of 4 were offered an electrolyte solution and received a dietary food supplement for the stabilization of the fluid and electrolyte balance. Nevertheless, similar ADG and end weights (EW) of calves fed A1- or A2-milk (p > 0.05) indicate that A2-milk may compensate higher diarrhea rates and lower dMI due to the associated higher protein content. This is the first report of intact β-CM7 in plasma of calves fed milk of either A1 or A2 β-CN. Evidence from this study suggests that due to the change in the amino-acid sequence, A2-milk might be able to prevent or, at least, to minimize the cleavage of β-CM7 in calves.

PSI-13 Evaluation of acid insoluble ash as a digestibility marker in feedlot diets containing corn-milling byproducts

Abstract We evaluated the accuracy of acid insoluble ash (AIA) as a digestibility marker in feedlot cattle diets containing corn-milling byproducts and examined the effect of fecal sampling frequency on digestibility estimates. Steers (n = 6) were used in a crossover split-plot design where 3 steers per period were assigned to 1 of 2 diets [receiving (REC) containing 19% roughage and 38% Sweet Bran™ or finishing (FIN) containing 8% roughage and 20% Sweet Bran] typical of those used in the beef feedlot industry. Steers were limit fed at 2.0% of initial body weight. After a 21-d adaptation period, steers were housed in metabolism crates for 7 d of total collection (TC) of feed and feces and simultaneous collection of fresh manure grab samples twice daily to calculate nutrient digestibility from AIA. Grab samples were then averaged to represent 7 (7dAIA), 5 (5dAIA), 3 (3dAIA) and 1 (1dAIA) days of the collection period. No interactions (P ≥ 0.13) were observed for DM, OM or NDF digestibility between diet and method of estimating digestibility. Digestibility of DM and OM were greater (P &amp;lt; 0.01) for FIN than for REC, and NDF digestibility was less (P &amp;lt; 0.01) for FIN than REC. Both DM and OM digestibility were greater (P &amp;lt; 0.01) for AIA estimates than for TC; however, estimates with 7dAIA were less than 3dAIA and 1dAIA, but not different from 5dAIA. Similarly, NDF digestibility was greater (P &amp;lt; 0.01) for all AIA estimates than for TC, but 7dAIA and 5dAIA were less than 1dAIA and not different from 3dAIA. A treatment × method interaction (P = 0.02) occurred for ADF digestibility. These data suggest that AIA over-estimated digestibility of beef feedlot diets containing corn-milling byproducts, but accuracy improved with greater grab sampling frequency.

Clinical nursing management of low anterior resection syndrome – a practical guide to understanding and managing symptoms

Low anterior resection with total mesorectal excision and reconstruction with coloanal anastomosis is the optimal treatment of nondisseminated rectal cancer in selected patients and has seen a decrease in permanent stomas. However, up to 60% of patients can suffer from bothersome functional bowel complaints associated with the surgery and neo-adjuvant and adjuvant therapies, which are known as low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). LARS symptoms include faecal urgency, incontinence, frequency, constipation and incomplete emptying, in which patients may suffer from one or multiple symptoms. Patients should be informed about the possibility of permanent changes to their bowel function and what impact it could have on their quality of life. Nursing involvement is key to optimising symptoms and patient quality of life for patients suffering with LARS. Nursing management includes performing a physical assessment and determining the severity of LARS symptoms and effect on quality of life. Treatments available for LARS are based around the symptoms the patient is suffering and can include dietary modifications; biofeedback and pelvic floor physiotherapy; dietary fibre supplements / bulking agents; medications; transanal irrigation; surgical options and education.

ANTI-DIARRHEAL ACTIVITY OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF NAGASARI FLOWERS (Mesua ferrea L.) IN BALB/c MICE INDUCED BY Escherichia coli

Nagasari (Mesua ferrea L.) is empirically used for curing diarrhea in Nusa Tenggara Barat Province. However, the safety and efficacy of nagasari have not been scientifically validated in animal model. This study evaluates the activity of nagasari flowers aqueous extract in BALB/c mice induced by Escherichia coli to determine the most effective dosage for anti-diarrheal effect. The aqueous extract of nagasari flowers ((0.4% (w/v), 0.8% (w/v), and 1.6% (w/v)) was given to 3 groups of mice whereas negative and positive control groups received aquadestilate and ciprofloxacin 130 mg/kgBW respectively orally once per day for 3 days. The frequency and consistency of feces were observed then the total colony of E. coli in feces was calculated using colony counter. Aqueous extract of nagasari flowers at concentration of 1.6% showed significant inhibitory activity against Escherichia coli compared to positive controls (diarrhea index of 0.425; p>0.05 and total colony of E. coli in feces of 100.2; p>0.05). This study provides scientific support for the traditional use of aqueous extract of nagasari flowers for the treatment of diarrheal diseases.

Ten-year impact of pancreaticoduodenectomy on bowel function and quality of life of patients with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis

BackgroundPatients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) carry a risk of duodenal adenocarcinoma. These patients, who already have an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA), sometimes require pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). This work aims to evaluate the long-term consequences of the combination of PD + IPAA. MethodsAll patients with IPAA due to FAP who underwent PD from 1991 to 2017 were included (PD + IPAA group). Patients were matched 1:1 according to age, sex, ASA score and presence of colorectal cancer. Fecal continence and quality of life (QoL) were assessed using the Wexner score and the EORTC-QLQ-C30 questionnaire. ResultsThirty-two PD + IPAA patients were matched with thirty-two IPAA-only patients. In each group, the response rate to the questionnaire was 78% (25/32). No differences were noted between PD + IPAA and IPAA-only groups in terms of daytime fecal frequency (6.0 vs 6.0; p = 0.362), Wexner score (3/20 vs 4/20; p = 0.984) and global QoL score (83.3/100 vs 83.3/100; p = 0.401). In the PD + IPAA group, 26% of patients developed diabetes a median period of 10.0 years after PD. The global QoL for these patients was significantly altered (p = 0.011), while daytime fecal frequency was unaffected (p = 0.092) as fecal continence (p = 0.475). ConclusionIn FAP patients with IPAA, PD does not affect bowel function or QoL.