Lithothamnium Calcareum Research Articles

Snacks from the sea: a cross-national comparison of consumer acceptance for crackers added with algae

One of the main priorities of current food systems is to develop new and healthy foods to overcome food shortages considering consumer’s expectations. Algae are receiving increasing attention as nutritious and sustainable food, though studies are limited mainly to Arthrospira and Chlorella species and cross-national research is scant. This study aims to investigate European consumers’ liking and perception of crackers added with powders from Arthrospira platensis (green Spirulina), isolated proteins from Arthrospira platensis (blue Spirulina), Palmaria palmata, Saccharina latissima, Lithothamnium calcareum and a control cracker. Belgian, German, Italian, and Swedish participants (n = 413, 18–69 years, 59.8% females) evaluated cracker liking and perceived sensory attributes using the check-all-that-apply (CATA) task. Food neophobia, familiarity towards, and consumption of algae were also collected. Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) analyses showed that across all countries, Lithothamnium calcareum, blue Spirulina and the control samples were perceived as similar and were liked more than the other crackers. “Sweet”, “toasted bread”, and “bland” attributes were significant contributors to liking, while “off-flavor”, “fishy flavor”, “umami” and “speckled” contributed negatively. PLSR performed by country provided similar results except for Italians who liked the green Spirulina sample equally as the samples added with Lithothamnium calcareum, blue Spirulina, and the control. These cross-national differences can be ascribed to Italians’ lower food neophobia level. The present results suggest that Lithothamnium calcareum is the most promising algal species to be exploited in food formulations and that the use of isolated proteins from Spirulina (blue Spirulina) significantly reduces off-flavors, consequently improving consumers’ acceptance.

Evaluation of dietary supplementation of Ascophyllum nodosum and Lithothamnium calcareum as functional algae in F4+ Escherichia coli challenged piglets.

Despite progress in reducing antimicrobial use in the veterinary field, it is crucial to find alternatives to preserve effectiveness and limit antimicrobial resistance. In pig farming, pathogenic strains of E. coli are the main cause of gastrointestinal disorders and antibiotic use. In this field, algae represent an innovation in animal nutrition that aligns with livestock sustainability principles and provide a high content of functional molecules. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of an innovative dietary combination of Ascophyllum nodosum and Lithothamnium calcareum, on growth, duodenum gene expression, jejunum intestinal morphology, and serum oxidative status in F4+ Escherichia coli challenged piglets. Forty-eight weaned pigs, aged 28 ± 2 days, were divided into two groups (n = 24 pigs/group): the control group was fed a commercial diet (CTRL), while the seaweeds group was fed a commercial diet supplemented with 1.5% A. nodosum and 0.5% L. calcareum for 27 days (ALGAE). After 13 days, 50% of animals in each group were challenged with a single dose of 108 CFU/dose of E. coli F4+, resulting in two infected groups (CTRL+ and ALGAE+, n = 12 pigs/group). Growth performance was assessed by measuring the individual body weight. At day 27, from six animals/group duodenum and jejunum sections were sampled for gene expression analysis via qRT-PCR and histological evaluation. The results indicated a significantly higher body weight in the ALGAE+ group compared to CTRL+ after 7 days post-challenge (p < 0.0001). Jejunum morphology revealed lower villus height, villus width and villus height/crypt depth ratio in CTRL+ compared to ALGAE+ (p < 0.05) suggesting a protective effect of seaweeds on gut health. In conclusion, algae mixture exerted a protective effect against intestinal damage from E. coli F4+ infection proposing A. nodosum and L. calcareum supplementation as interesting strategy to support animal growth, enhance health and reduce antibiotic treatments in weaned piglets.

Alga marinha calcária na dieta de poedeiras semipesadas nas fases de recria e pré-postura

Abstract Calcareous seaweed (Lithothamnium calcareum) is a source of organic minerals and has been used as an alternative food in poultry nutrition. The objective is to evaluate the levels of calcareous algae in the diet of chickens during the rearing and pre-laying phases, as also on the performance and thermoregulation variables. One hundred and forty-four semi-heavy Hisex Brown hens, aged 12 to 18 weeks, were used in the rearing and pre-laying stages. They were fed with four levels of calcareous algae (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%), which were used in place of the calcitic limestone. Six replications and six birds were used per experimental unit, distributed in a completely randomized design. Feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion, body weight, viability, and thermoregulation through cloacal temperature (°C), mean body temperature (°C), and mean skin temperature (°C) were evaluated. There was no significant difference (P &gt; 0.05) in the thermoregulation of the birds. There was a difference (P &lt; 0.05) in the feed intake during the pre-laying phase, however, the other parameters showed no difference (P &gt; 0.05). The inclusion of up to 30% calcareous algae in the diet of semi-heavy laying hens in the rearing and pre-laying phases did not affect the performance or thermoregulation of the birds. Therefore, it is possible to substitute calcitic limestone with up to 30% of the calcareous algae in the diet of semi-heavy laying hens.

Feeding phytogenic ingredients combined or not with Lithothamnium calcareum and a mycotoxin binder to lactating cows: Effects on performance, nutrient digestibility, physiological parameters, and nitrogen excretion

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of phytogenic feed additives combined or not with buffer compounds and a mycotoxin binder on performance, nutrient digestibility, N utilization, and purine derivatives excretion in lactating cows. Thirty-six Holstein (162 ± 76 days in milk and 32.6 ± 5.57 kg/d milk yield) cows were blocked (n = 12) according to parity, days in milk, and milk yield and were randomly assigned to the following treatments: control (CON), no feed additive; phytogenic feed additive at 5 g/d (PA); and PA + 140 g of buffer compounds (Lithothamnium calcareum, NaHCO3, and MgO) + 25 g/d of a mycotoxin binder (PABB). The PFA mixture contained pepper oleoresin and extracts of cinnamon, pepper, onion, grape seed, Curcuma sp., and Quillaja sp. Treatments were provided mixed into minerals. Cows were allowed a 2 wk-covariate period, and treatments were applied for the following 9 wks. Tukey’s test was used to determine differences between treatment groups. Dry matter (DM) intake was greater (P < 0.001) when feeding phytogenic additives, either PA or PABB, in comparison with CON. Similar nutrient intake was observed between PA and PABB groups. Digestibility of DM was greater (P = 0.047) in cows fed PA than CON but did not differ from those fed PABB. Milk yield was greater (P = 0.041) in cows fed PA than CON group, whereas PA and PABB had similar production values (32.1, 33.6, and 32.8 kg/d for CON, PA, and PABB, respectively). Fat production was increased (P = 0.002) when feeding feed additives. Milk protein concentration was greater (P = 0.043) in PABB-cows than both PA and CON groups. There was no evidence for treatment effects on milk urea nitrogen concentration, feed efficiency, or serum concentrations of glucose and urea-N. The heart rate was lower (P = 0.026) in CON group than PA or PABB during the morning period evaluation. Skin temperature of the face region was elevated (P = 0.040) in cows fed PABB than CON during the morning period. Milk N secretion tended to be greater (P = 0.096) in cows fed treatments with phytogenic additives (PA and PABB) than CON. Relative N excretion (g/kg of N intake) in urine, feces, and milk were not affected by treatments. Urinary purine derivatives daily excretion was similar among treatments. Phytogenic feed additives improve performance of cows, whereas providing a blend of buffer components and mycotoxin binder may increase milk protein concentration.

Phosphorus recovery from aqueous solutions using Bioclastic Granules (Lithothamnium calcareum).

Against the growing world demand for food and the possibility of recovering some nutrients, this work focused on the evaluation of the use of Bioclastic Granules (BG) from the algae Lithothamnium calcareum as sorbent material for the removal/recovery of phosphorus from aqueous solutions. The main variables that affect the sorption process, pH, initial concentration of phosphate, and GB, as well as the contact time, were evaluated. The effect of pH was very significant, obtaining the best results of PO43- removal at pH 5. In the coarser granulometric fractions (+ 106 - 150 and + 210 - 300μm), the best removals were observed (around 75%). Regarding the initial PO43- concentration in the solutions, the highest removal (in the range of 74 to 78%) was observed in the lowest concentrations (5 to 70mg L-1) and the best uptake (10 to 14mgg-1) at higher concentrations (200 to 420mg L-1). The PO43- sorption data fitted the Freundlich model well, with kF of 1.35 L mg-1 and n of 2.43. A qmax of 14.35mgg-1 was obtained using the Langmuir model. Regarding the sorption data over time, a better fit to the pseudo-first-order kinetic model was observed, obtaining a calculated qeq of 6.56mgg-1 and a k1 of 0.0073min-1. The incorporation of PO43- ions in the GB structure was confirmed through the characterization results before and after the sorption experiments using X-ray fluorescence (FRX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques.

Ruminal microbiome and blood parameters in beef cattle fed with high-grain diets buffered with Lithothamnium calcareum

Context and aims DNA metabarcoding strategy was used to sequence the 16S rRNA region of ruminal fluid samples from Nellore cattle fed with concentrate-rich diets in response to modulatory effect of buffering additives calcarea seaweed (Lithothamnium calcareum) and sodium bicarbonate. Methods Besides characterising the richness and diversity indices of rumen bacterial community, the impact of potentially acidogenic diets on rumen pH, blood parameters, and short-chain fatty acid profile (SCFA) was investigated for which four male Nellore cattle were used, distributed in a 4 × 4 Latin square (treatments × periods). Treatments comprised the same highly concentrated basal diet, and were as follows: T1, without additive (CON); T2, inclusion of 90 g of sodium bicarbonate (BIC); T3, inclusion of 90 g of L. calcareum (L90); and T4, inclusion of 45 g of L. calcareum (L45). Data were analysed in R, in which diversity and abundance at gender level were analysed using Friedman’s test, with means being adjusted by False Discovery Rate (FDR) correction. The analyses of pH, biochemical parameters and SCFA were analysed using Scott–Knott test and means were evaluated with a significance level of 10% (P &lt; 0.10). Key results We identified 1474 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) belonging to 52 genera and 16 phyla of bacteria domain. The results showed that bacterial microbiota were dominated by Firmicutes (44.12%), Bacteroidetes (28.29%), and Proteobacteria (5.88%). Animals fed with L90 demonstrated greater abundance and ruminal diversity for the Prevotella genus (P &lt; 0.07% and P &lt; 0.09% respectively), whereas cattle supplemented with L45 demonstrated greater diversity of the Fibrobacter genus (P &lt; 0.05). There were differences in molar proportion for acetic (P &lt; 0.07%) and valeric (P &lt; 0.03%) acids in the period before feeding. Higher blood lactate concentrations were observed in animals supplemented with L45 (P &lt; 0.06%), while animals that received treatments L90 and BIC presented lower levels of blood lactate. This metabolite was lower in animals fed with 90 g of sodium bicarbonate and L. calcareum daily. These treatments also reduced the concentration of acetic acid and increased that of valeric acid, and improved ruminal diversity. Conclusions and implications Our results supported this choice to improve ruminal function, with a great prospective of better weight-gain performance in Nellore cattle.

Addition of seaweed flour (Lithothamnium calcareum) combined with homeopathic feed for broiler chickens decreases the toxic effects caused by aflatoxin B1

The aim of this study was to determine whether a combination of seaweed flour (Lithothamnium calcareum) and a homeopathic added to broiler feed has a hepatoprotective effect capable of minimizing the negative impacts of aflatoxin B1 toxicosis. We used birds one day divided into four groups with six repetitions per group and 20 birds per repetition in a completely randomized design. The combination of seaweed flour + homeopathic product was identified as the test product (TP). The groups were identified as PC: intake of 300 µg/kg of AFB1 (positive control); PC+TP: intake of 300 µg/kg of AFB1 + 2 g/kg of TP; NC: birds that received control feed; and TP: supplemented with 2 g/kg TP. The birds in the PC+TP, NC and TP groups had the higher body weights on days 35 and 42 days than in the PC group. This same effect was also observed for daily weight gain and feed conversion for 1–42 days. A higher villus: crypt relationship was observed in PC + TP, NC and TP compared to PC. The seaweed flour combined with the TP minimizes the negative effects of AFB1 on the liver health of broilers and consequently avoids losses in zootechnical performance.

Economic analysis of fertilization management in ‘Prata-Anã’ Gorutuba banana plants

Abstract Brazilian banana farming is one of the most important agricultural activities in the national scenario and can be highly productive and economically profitable for producers who invest in technology. The objective of this work was to compare the economic viability of two different fertilization managements in the cultivation system of 1st -cycle ‘Prata Anã’ Gorutuba bananas. The conventional fertilization treatment (CM), adopted by the producer (control), was compared with the alternative treatment: conventional management + 3 soil conditioners + 1 biostimulant (CM + 3SC + 1B). The four products selected for the alternative treatment were oyster shell limestone, Celtonite, Lithothamnium calcareum and Acadian. The application of the four products in the CM + 3SC + 1B treatment provided satisfactory results on crop performance, mainly due to the increase of 4.032 tons ha-1. The CM+3CS+1B alternative management was more economically viable than CM, as the total operational cost (1st + 2nd year) of the alternative management was 6.71% higher compared to the conventional management; however, the alternative treatment productivity was 28.08% higher. The cost to produce one ton of bananas was R$ 2.456,91 in the conventional treatment and R$ 2.047,07 in the alternative treatment, which represents a 16.68% reduction in the average cost, indicating the economic feasibility of this treatment.

Comparative evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy of rumen buffers and direct fed microbials (DFM) in sub-acute ruminal acidosis in dairy cows

Sub-acute ruminal acidosis (SARA) in dairy cattle is a disorder of ruminal fermentation caused by the ingestion of large amounts of concentrates with inadequate amounts of fibre. The condition is characterized by sustained and marked decrease in rumen liquor pH ≤5.5 for at least three hours of each day. Rumen buffers and direct fed microbials (DFM) are dietary supplements that had been used in the management of SARA. Rumen liquor samples of dairy cows from the organized farms and households of Wayanad district which were at the risk of SARA were collected by rumenocentesis for rumen pH estimation. Blood samples were collected from cows positive for SARA and subjected to haemato-biochemical evaluations. Three different therapeutic protocols involving oral administration of sodium bicarbonate, Lithothamnium calcareum extracts as rumen buffers and a mixture Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Aspergillus oryzae as direct fed microbial were compared in SARA positive cows for 14 days and the efficacy of the treatment was evaluated by the improvement in rumen liquor pH after the treatment period. Rumen buffer like sodium bicarbonate was found to be more efficient than Lithothamnium calcareum and DFMs like Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Aspergillus oryzae mixture in improving the rumen pH values in cattle positive for SARA.

Iron removal by fixed-bed adsorption with thermochemically treated Lithothamnium calcareum algae

Difficulty in removing metallic ions from water has led to the development of new technologies. This work aims to investigate the removal of Fe 2 + from water by a fixed-bed column filled with bioclastic granules of the algae Lithothamnium calcareum . The bioclastic granules were thermo-chemically treated in order to unblock the existent pores and improve the sorption capacity. The column was constructed in an acrylic tube with height of 14.9 cm and diameter of 4.58 cm filled with the earlier prepared Lithothamnium calcareum . Then a solution of Iron Sulfate in the concentration of 500 mg L −1 of Fe 2 + was applied in hydraulic loads of 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 cm and the hydraulic conductivity was determined. The miscible displacement was evaluated by the construction of breakthrough curves for each load, considering the mass flux and diffusive–dispersive flux and only the diffusive–dispersive flux. Peclet number, diffusion coefficient and dispersivity of the porous medium were also determined. Evaluation of the mass balance of the bioclastic granules column experiment was performed through sigmoidal models. The column showed removal efficiency of Fe 2 + around 50% and high values of retardation factor (2.410 < R < 4.092) indicating the high interaction between Lithothamnium calcareum and the solute. The dispersive flux was predominant according to the miscible displacement and sigmoidal models evaluated. Thus, the use of Lithothamnium calcareum is an interesting alternative to remove excess of iron from consumption water, protecting from changes in color, turbidity and flavor of the water, and from pipe obstructions. • Lithothamnium calcareum used as biosorbent. • High interaction between Lithothamnium calcareum and Fe +2 . • Satisfactory removal of high concentrations of iron from water. • Predominance of dispersive flux in Lithothamnium calcareum fixed-bed column.

Adsorption of metal ions in red marine algae Lithothamnium calcareum in the treatment of industrial effluents

This study investigated the adsorption capacity of the elements Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn) and Zinc (Zn) to marine algae Lithothamnium calcareum by means of adsorption kinetics and batch adsorption tests, with a view to the development of a simple technique for the treatment of effluents that have a high concentration of metal ions. The algae was sieved, washed and subjected to treatment. In the adsorption kinetics, 0.2 g of algae was weighed, an amount transferred to 125 mL Erlenmeyer flasks, to which was added 15 mL of solution with a concentration of 5 mg L-1 of the metal ion. The flasks were stirred at 60 rpm for 240 minutes. In batch adsorption, 0.2 g of algae was weighed, amount transferred to 125 mL Erlenmeyer flasks, to which was added 15 mL of solution with concentrations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 250 e 500 mg L-1 of the metal ion. The flasks were stirred at 60 rpm for 24 hours. In the two tests, the supernatant solutions collected were centrifuged at 2000 rpm for 5 minutes and the equilibrium concentrations of metal ions were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. It was found that, in 240 minutes of contact, the Lithothamnium calcareum removed 15.5% of Cr, 33.0% of Mn and 8.0% of Zn in solution; and that in 24 hours of contact, at a concentration of 5 mg L-1, it removed 0.4% of Cr, 52.5% of Mn and 92.6% of Zn; and, at a concentration of 500 mg L-1, it removed 20.0% of Cr, 22.6% of Mn and 40.8% of Zn. The results showed that the Lithothamnium calcareum submitted to thermochemical treatment presented potential for use in the adsorption of Cr, Mn and Zn.

Characterisation and Traceability of Calcium Carbonate from the Seaweed Lithothamnium calcareum

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) from the seaweed Lithothamnium calcareum is a suitable dietary supplement for the prevention of osteoporosis, due to its chemical composition. This study compared CaCO3 from L. calcareum to CaCO3 from oyster shell and inorganic minerals that are already used in the pharmaceutical industry. The Rietveld refinement of the XRD showed that the mineral fraction of L. calcareum is composed of aragonite (50.3 wt%), magnesian calcite (45.3 wt%), calcite (4.4 wt%), comin contrast to oyster shell and inorganic minerals, which contain only calcite. The morphology of L. calcareum carbonate particles is granular xenomorphic, which is distinct from the scalenohedral form of inorganic calcite and the fibrous and scale-like fragments of oyster shell. The crystal structures of aragonite and magnesian calcite, present in L. calcareum, have higher contents of oligoelements than the pure calcite in other materials. The isotopic composition (stable isotopes of carbon and oxygen) is heavy in the CaCO3 from L. calcareum (δ13C = 1.1‰; δ18O = −0.1‰) and oyster shell (δ13C = −4‰; δ18O = −2.8‰) in marked contrast to the much lighter isotopic composition of inorganic mineral CaCO3 (δ13C = −19.2‰; δ18O = −26.3‰). The differences indicated above were determined through principal component analysis, where the first and second principal components are sufficient for the clear distinction and traceability of CaCO3 sources.

68 Effect of a marine-sourced calcium on fecal pH in horses

Lithothamnium calcareum (LC) is a red, marine algae containing calcite in its cell walls. LC has been touted for its gastroprotective effects in horses attributed to the increased surface area of its honeycomb structure allowing greater acid-buffering capacity versus calcium carbonate. Effects on the equine hindgut have not been evaluated. This pilot study aimed to determine if LC (CalseaPowder, Nuwen, France) fed to horses at a rate of 4.6g/kg finished feed would alter fecal pH. Twelve mature horses (12.5 yrs ± 1.4, mean ± SEM, 6 mares, 6 geldings) in moderate exercise in the Ohio State ATI equine program participated in a randomized crossover study. Horses were maintained on 1.2-ha fields and brought into the barn for feeding and riding sessions. Horses transitioned onto the control feed over 2 wks (CON: SAFE ‘N EASY Performance, BUCKEYE Nutrition, Dalton, OH, 1.2% total Ca, 100% added was CaCO 3 ), formulated to meet or exceed NRC 2007 requirements for mature horses in light-moderate work. Horses were randomly assigned to receive either CON or CAL (CON + LC , 1.2% total Ca, added 74% CaCO 3 , 26% calcite) during the first test period then crossed over for the second. Horses acclimated to CON or CAL for 2 wks and were offered 0.5 kg feed per 100 kg bodyweight, divided into 2 feedings (0700 and 1600). Horses had access to mixed grass forage to supplement pasture, fresh water and salt ad libitum . At the end of the first 2-week trial period, horses were brought into stalls bedded with sawdust and observed. All fecal samples were collected immediately upon defecation (within 1–3 h post feeding) from the middle of the top of the manure pile to avoid bedding contamination and analyzed. Within 5 min, approximately 10 mL of fecal water was squeezed through cheesecloth from freshly defecated samples and stirred for 60s. Fecal water pH was then measured in duplicate with a calibrated pH meter. Diets were switched and the protocol repeated with 2 wk acclimation. Statistical analyses utilized R version 3.6.3, with significant differences declared when P ≤ 0.05. A linear mixed effect model was used with pH vs. diet and horse as a random effect. A Dunnett post-hoc comparison between the 2 diet groups was applied. There was no effect of period ( P = 0.66). There was an effect of diet ( P < 0.001). Horses consuming CAL had higher fecal water pH (6.87 ± 0.2; mean ± SD) compared with CON (6.69 ± 0.2). LC may be useful in supporting hindgut health in horses, especially when such changes in pH become clinically relevant (e.g., acidosis). Future work should examine the effects of different doses of LC on hindgut pH and its effects on the microbial population.

Potassium sources and calcium and magnesium doses in carrot crop fertilization

ABSTRACT Fertilization has an important influence on carrot productivity and on the quality of the produced root, being responsible for most of the production cost of the crop. In this context, we evaluated the use of potassium (K) sources associated with calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) doses in carrot cultivation. In a randomized block design in a triple factorial scheme (2x2x2), we evaluated two doses and sources of potassium [potassium chloride (KCl), 120 kg ha-1 of K2O; potassium sulfate (K2SO4) 120 kg ha-1 of K2O + 42,5 kg ha-1 of S]; Two doses of Mg [magnesium sulfate (MgSO4), zero kg ha-1 of Mg; 25 kg ha-1 of Mg + 34,2 kg ha-1 of S]; two doses of the commercial algae product Lithothamnium calcareum as an alternative source of Ca [zero kg ha-1 of seaweed; 200 kg ha-1 of seaweed (24 kg ha-1 of Ca)], all with six replications. Total productivity, 3A, commercial and percentage of discard carrot were evaluated. Regardless of the source of K used, the carrot production was median (above 40 t ha-1), with no application of Ca or Mg. The application of 25 kg ha-1 of Mg and zero Ca altered the Ca:Mg ratio in the soil and provided a significant increase in yield when KCl was used. The association of L. calcareum algae with KCl reduces total yield and increases carrot disposal.

Lithothamnium calcareum (Pallas) Areschoug seaweed adsorbs aflatoxin B1 in vitro and improves broiler chicken's performance.

This study aimed to evaluate the aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) adsorption capacity of the seaweed Lithothamnium calcareum in vitro and to prevent aflatoxicosis in broiler chickens. In vitro adsorption assays were performed at a single AFB1 concentration (1μg/mL) and four seaweed concentrations (0.50, 1, 1.5 and 2mg/mL) at pH 3 and pH 6. The maximum adsorption was obtained at the lowest seaweed content (0.62 and 0.78μg/mg). Male broiler chickens (256) were housed in metallic cages. Experimental diets were T1 (control), 18μg/kg AFB1; T2, 18μg/kg AFB1 and 0.2% L. calcareum (2.0kg/ton); T3, 1018μg/kg AFB1; and T4, 1018μg/kg AFB1 and 0.2% L. calcareum. Performance parameters (live weight, weight gain and feed conversion rate) improved when seaweed was applied. The aspartate-aminotransferase and alanine-aminotransferase levels tend to decrease in birds receiving only seaweed, also the uric acid levels reduced significantly (P˂0.05), while birds receiving only AFB1 increased the biochemical parameter levels. The livers from animals fed with AFB1 showed histopathological alterations with disorganization of periportal hepatocytes, necrosis with multifocal coagulation and mild fat degeneration; the livers from T4 had normal appearance. Lithothamnium calcareum was able to prevent aflatoxicosis in broiler chickens and also improved their zootechnical performance.

PSXIV-9 Effect of monensin, a blend of essential oils and Lithothamnium calcareum over two racial groups in finishing cattle diets

Abstract This study aimed the evaluation of the effects of three feed additives – sodium monensin (MON; 32 mg/kg DM), Lithothamnium calcareum plus sodium monensim (LC+MON; LithoNutri® 5g/kg DM + 32 mg/kg DM) or a blend of essential oils (BEO; BioPhitus® 0.3g/kg DM) – and its interaction with two ratial groups of beef cattle – Nellore (NEL) vs. Crossbreds (CROSS) – on a finishing diet. Ninety Nellore bulls (initial BW = 394 ± 34 kg) and ninety crossbreds (initial BW = 406 ± 31 kg), were fed for 112 days, diets containing 8.5% sugarcane bagasse, 42.2% of fine ground corn, 41.7% of citrus pulp, 5% of soybean meal, 1.3% of urea, 0.35% of sodium chloride and 0.95% of minerals and vitamins. Treatments were NEL+MON; NEL+LC+MON; NEL+BEO; CROSS+MON; CROSS+LC+MON; CROSS+BEO in a randomized complete block with a 2 x 3 factorial arrangement (2 racial groups and 3 feed additives). There were no interactions between racial groups and feed additives (P &amp;gt; 0.05). Regardless of the additive used there were no differences in final BW (P = 0.237), ADG (P = 0.610), HCW (P = 0.120) or dressing (P = 0.095). Animals fed LC+MON had lower DMI (P &amp;lt; 0.01) than animals fed MON or BEO (7.74 kg, 8.64 kg, 9.26 kg, respectively). However, feed efficiency (G:F) of LC+MON did not differ from MON. Animals fed diets with BEO had lower G:F than animals fed diets with MON or LC+MON (P &amp;lt; 0.01; 0.1382, 0.1469 and 0.1550 respectively). Animals fed diets with MON or LC+MON were 6.3% and 12% more efficient than animals fed with BEO. Crossbred bulls had higher DMI (P &amp;lt; 0.001), ADG (P &amp;lt; 0.001), FBW (P &amp;lt; 0.001) and HCW (P &amp;lt; 0.001) than Nellore bulls. In summary, LC reduced DMI not altering feed efficiency. Diets containing BEO reduced G:F of the animals when compared with animals receiving diets containing MON.

Feasibility single-arm study of a medical device containing Desmodium adscendens and Lithothamnium calcareum combined with chemotherapy in head and neck cancer patients.

BackgroundNeoplasms of the head and neck represent approximately 5% of cancers and they require complex multidisciplinary clinical management. Desmodium adscendens (Desmodium) is a plant that possesses anti-allergic, antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties. Lithothamnium calcareum (Lithothamnium) is a calcified seaweed that possesses remineralization properties and the ability to maintain homeostasis.AimIn this single-arm study, we investigated the efficacy of a combination therapy based on Desmovit® which contains Desmodium and Lithothamnium, and chemotherapy in patients with head and neck cancer.MethodsTwelve patients with histological or cytological diagnosis of stage IV head and neck cancer were enrolled in this study that was approved by the ethics committee of the Unità Operativa Complessa (UOC) di Oncologia Medica Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti Marche Nord and followed the Declaration of Helsinki guidelines. The patients were monitored by investigation of the performance status according to the Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS), which evaluates the plasma level of C-reactive protein and albumin levels, and the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) examination. Pain and fatigue were also monitored using the visual analog scale and visual analog fatigue scale, respectively. All the above parameters were assessed biweekly to week 10.ResultsGPS, ECOG, and albumin remained stable throughout the study with a trend towards a decrease in GPS and albumin at week 10 post-treatment. Pain significantly improved at week 8 (P<0.05) while fatigue improved at weeks 8 and 10 (all P<0.01).ConclusionWe found that chemotherapy, combined with Desmodium and Lithothamnium, improved pain and fatigue in head and neck cancer patients, although we cannot confirm if this was due to Desmodium and Lithothamnium or chemotherapy. The improvement in pain and fatigue was supported by the ECOG performance status remaining stable with the highest score being equal to 2 throughout the study and a trend towards an improvement in GPS performance status and albumin levels.

Cadmium removal by bioclastic granules (Lithothamnium calcareum): batch and fixed-bed column systems sorption studies

ABSTRACTThe potential of Bioclastic Granules – BG (calcium-carbonate-based material) using the algae Lithothamnium calcareum as sorbent for the removal of Cd(II) from aqueous solutions by sorption was evaluated through batch and continuous systems tests using a fixed-bed column. Sorption process variables, in particular pH (2–7), particle size (<38–300 μm), initial BG concentration (0.1–1.0 g L−1), initial Cd(II) concentrations (5–400 mg L−1) and contact time (5–240 min), were evaluated. Adsorption isotherm profiles of Cd(II) per BG were similar to an L-type, or Langmuir type, with the adsorption forming a monolayer of approximately 0.61 μm, with a qmax of 188.74 mg g−1 and kL of 0.710 L mg−1. Thomas’s model considers that sorption is not limited to a chemical reaction but is controlled by mass transfer at the interface. In the present study, the obtained value of kTh was 0.895 mL h−1 mg−1, reaching a sorption capacity qo of 124.4 mg g−1. For the Yoon–Nelson model, it was possible to obtain two important parameters to describe the behavior of the column, the rate constant (kYN), obtaining a value of 0.09 h−1 and an τ of 82.12 h corresponding to the time required for sorption to occur of 50% of the solute in the rupture curve. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analyses coupled to the X-ray dispersive energy system (SEM/EDS) of the BG after the Cd(II) ion sorption tests evidenced the formation of crystals with the prevalence of a new mineral phase (otavite).

Effect of dietary calcium level and source on mineral utilisation by piglets fed diets containing exogenous phytase

Calcium and phosphorus are essential minerals, closely linked in digestive processes and metabolism. With widespread use of low P diets containing exogenous phytase, the optimal dietary Ca level was verified. The 40-day study evaluated the effects of Ca level (4, 7 and 10g/kg diet) and Ca source (Ca from CaCO3 and from Lithothamnium calcareum) on mineral utilisation in 72 piglets (7.9±1.0kg BW) fed an exogenous phytase containing diet with 2.9g digestible P/kg. Measured parameters were growth performance, stomach mineral solubility, bone breaking strength and urinary, serum and bone mineral concentration. The apparent total tract digestibility of minerals was also assessed in the two diets with 7g Ca/kg, using 12 additional pigs. Regardless of Ca source, increasing dietary Ca impaired feed conversion ratio, increased urinary pH, increased serum and urinary Ca, decreased serum and urinary P, decreased serum Mg and increased urinary Mg, increased serum AP activity, decreased bone Mg increased bone Zn. Bone breaking strength was improved with 7 compared to 4g Ca/kg. Compared to CaCO3 , Ca from Lithothamnium calcareum increased serum Mg and with, 10g Ca/kg, it limited body weight gain. The dose response of Ca in a diet with 2.9g digestible P/kg and including exogenous phytase indicated that: (i) a low dietary Ca was beneficial for piglet growth, but was limiting the metabolic use of P; (ii) a high dietary Ca level impaired P utilisation; (iii) the optimal P utilisation and bone breaking strength was obtained with a dietary Ca-to-digestible P ratio of 2.1 to 2.4:1; (iv). Increasing dietary Ca reduced Mg utilisation, but not Zn status, when fed at adequate level. Finally, Ca from Lithothamnium calcareum had similar effects on Ca and P metabolism as CaCO3 , but impaired growth when fed at the highest inclusion level.

Use of calcareous algae and monensin in Nellore cattle subjected to an abrupt change in diet

ABSTRACT: Additives are used in high concentrate diets to prevent metabolic disorders in cattle. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of calcium sources and monensin on the control of ruminal acidosis in Nellore cattle that were abruptly shifted to a high (92.3%) concentrate diet. Eight cannulated steers were randomly assigned to two contemporary 4x4 Latin square. Treatments involved the addition of a calcium source, either limestone (LI) or a product derived from calcareous algae (CA), to the basic diet with or without the presence of monensin. Calcareous alga (Lithothamnium calcareum) is a natural and renewable product and a source of calcium carbonate. The quantity of added limestone, calcareous algae and monensin was 7.1g kg-1, 7.4g kg-1 and 30mg kg-1 DM, respectively. There was no effect of calcium source (P=0.607) or monensin (P=0.294) on feed intake or on the concentration of short chain fatty acids. Treatments with calcareous algae resulted in a higher mean ruminal pH (P=0.039), a shorter amount of time with the ruminal pH under 5.2 (P&lt;0.001) and a better control of blood pH (P=0.006). Treatments with monensin also resulted in a shorter amount of time with the ruminal pH below 5.2 (P=0.023). Calcareous algae were shown to be effective in controlling adverse changes in the rumen and in blood variables for Nellore cattle that were subjected to an abrupt change to a high concentrate diet.