Live Weight Research Articles

Heritability and Genetic Correlations of Carcass and Meat Quality Traits in White and Brown Strains of Japanese Quail

Successful breeding programs for Japanese quails rely on accurately estimating genetic parameters linked to economically important traits such as body weight, carcass characteristics, and meat quality. The objective of the present study was to evaluate body weight (BW) characteristics, carcass attributes, and their genetic correlations with select meat quality traits in two strains of Japanese quail (white and brown). A total of 530 quail chicks, with 265 from each strain, were included in the analysis. At six weeks of age, the quails were slaughtered, and carcass traits as well as amino acid profiles were measured. For BW traits, the heritability (h2) estimates ranged from 0.27 at d 1 to 0.36 at d 42. The h2 estimated for carcass traits ranged from 0.19 for liver weight, to 0.42 for carcass yield (CY). The h2 estimated for drip loss (DL) of meat quality was 0.21, and the h2 estimate was 0.35 for the meat's ultimate Ph (Phu). White quail quails recorded the heaviest weight of all carcass traits. Also, white quails had the highest water-holding capacity (WHC), yellowness (b*), and lightness (L*) with the lowest level of DL, cooking losses (CL), and redness (a*) in muscles compared with brown quails. A high genetic correlation of 0.32 was noted between CW carcass weight (CW) and b*. For the pHU, a negative correlation of -0.11 was exhibited with BW. In contrast, L* appeared to have a positive but smaller relationship with CW and CY. High negative correlations were noted for b* with BW and CY -0.24 and -0.27, respectively. The CW showed a moderate relationship (0.19) with CL. In conclusion, the current study revealed that the white quail strain had high BW, as well as the finest carcass traits and meat quality. Therefore, white plumage Japanese quail might be preferred as a meat-producing strain. Keywords: Amino acid, Carcass, Genetic correlation, Meat quality, Heritability, Quail

High-sucrose diet induces abnormalities in lipid metabolism through gut microbiome dysbiosis linked to five metronidazole-suppressed bacteria

Public attention to the correlation between excessive sucrose consumption and metabolic syndrome has facilitated research on its underlying mechanisms. Recent studies have newly identified the intestine, rather than the liver, as the predominant site of dietary fructose metabolism, which corrects the previous concepts and links the promotion of fatty liver and hyperlipidemia to gut microbiota dysbiosis, although the specific mode of action remains unclear. Here, we used microbiota suppression to identify the causative bacteria. Male Wistar rats were fed a starch or high-sucrose diet and orally administered two independent antibiotic treatments for four weeks. Metronidazole, neomycin, ampicillin, vancomycin, and their mixture were used to explore highly sucrose-responsive bacteria. Metronidazole and the mixture decreased or showed a tendency to decrease high-sucrose diet-induced increases in liver weight, plasma triglyceride levels, and fatty acid synthesis-related gene expression (ATP citrate lyase, fatty acid synthase, and malic enzyme). To further investigate the ability of metronidazole to ameliorate high-sucrose diet-induced abnormalities in lipid metabolism, three nitroimidazole antibiotics (metronidazole, tinidazole, and ornidazole) were used. Only metronidazole reduced the liver weight and decreased plasma triglyceride levels on a high-sucrose diet. Among the high-sucrose diet induction effects, five bacteria suppressed by metronidazole were screened, belonging to the family Rikenellaceae, genera Bacteroides, Blautia, and Dorea, and species Eubacterium dolichum. Overall, suppression of the gut microbiota by metronidazole-specific action, rather than the nitroreductase activity of tinidazole and ornidazole, was responsible for the amelioration of high-sucrose diet-induced fatty liver and hypertriglyceridemia. Five causative bacteria were identified in this study.

Measurement of the Direct Impact of Hematophagous Flies on Feeder Cattle: An Unexpectedly High Potential Economic Impact.

In addition to blood pathogen transmission, insects of the order Diptera affect livestock through visual and contact harassment; blood-feeders are responsible for painful bites and blood despoliation, generating behavioral modifications, anemia, and production losses. Knowledge of their economic impact is a basis for cost-effective control. Here, we measured the global impact of diptera insects by comparing two batches of six feeder cattle, one in the open air and the other protected by a mosquito net. The analytical data were insect density in the open air and, for feeder cattle, tail flick counts, hematocrit values (Ht), feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and live body weight gain (LBWG). Over a period of five months, the results showed significant losses in the LBWG of cattle exposed to insects, estimated at 8.0 ± 1.5 kg/month [2.7; 13.3], with a total loss reaching 40.0 ± 5.5 kg/head. Main diurnal insects were Stomoxys spp. and Musca crassirostris. There was a strong correlation between fly density and diurnal tail flicks. Night trapping and tail flicks showed a potentially important role of mosquitoes to be further explored. The Ht levels of exposed animals were 3-4% lower than those of controls. FCRs indicated that exposed animals needed 33% more dry matter intake/kg of LBWG. An economic assessment showed that dipterans were responsible for a 10-11% loss in LBWG during the main growing period of feeder cattle (10-15 months). A feedlot of 100 calves would register a total loss of USD 16,000 within 5 months, which appears to be an unexpectedly huge loss caused by dipterans. Investing part of this money into fly control would probably be beneficial.

Use of black pepper oil in growing-quail diets and its impact on growth, carcass measurements, intestinal microbiota, and blood chemistry

Abstract. Supplements derived from plants are utilized to maintain and promote the growth efficiency of animals. The use of black pepper oil (BPO) has recently generated significant scientific interest, primarily because of its potential beneficial effects on both humans and animals. The goal of the current study was to determine how dietary BPO supplementation affected growth performance, characteristics of growing quails' immunity, antioxidant status, and carcass yield. A total of 240 growing quails (1 week old) were divided into five equal groups, each with 36 birds (four replicates of 12 each). A basal diet containing no BPO (0 g kg−1) was given to the first group, and the second, third, and fourth groups were given a diet that was supplemented with BPO (0.4, 0.8, 1.2, and 1.6 g kg−1, respectively). In comparison to a control group, quails' diets that were supplemented with 0.8 g BPO kg−1 showed improvements in final live body weight, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio of 10.68 %, 12.6 %, and 18.2 %, respectively. During the whole study period (1 to 5 weeks), quails fed diets with 0.8 g BPO consumed less feed than the other groups and control. Due to BPO treatment, there were no statistically significant changes in any of the carcass parameters. BPO-supplemented groups had significantly elevated plasma levels of albumin and globulin than control groups (P < 0.05), but the albumin/globulin ratio was reported to be significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in birds supplemented with diets containing BPO compared to the control group. When compared to the control, the liver enzyme activity (aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT)) in blood plasma was reported to be significantly increased in the quails given 0.4 and 0.8 g BPO kg−1. Glutathione and catalase activities were significantly higher in the group given diets supplemented with BPO (1.2 g kg−1) than they were in the control group. In comparison to the control, the supplementation of BPO in the diets of quail significantly enhanced (P < 0.05) the lipid profile in the plasma, moreover decreasing the caecal content pH (P < 0.05). In comparison to the control, the populations of lactobacilli, coliform, Salmonella spp., and Escherichia coli in the caecum significantly decreased in the BPO-supplemented groups (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary BPO supplementation in Japanese quails' diet can boost growth performance and antioxidant indices, enhance lipid profile and carcass traits, and reduce intestinal infections.

Effect of feed supplementation with Curcuma longa and Zingiber officinale spices on the zootechnical, biochemical, and microbiological parameters of broiler chickens

In recent years, there has been a significant trend to improve poultry zootechnical performances by biological methods to avoid the unwanted chemical growth factor's introduction into breeding process. Medicinal plants and their derivatives are good candidates to achieve this goal. Thus, this work aimed at evaluating the effect of poultry feed supplementation with the spices Curcuma longa and Zingiber officinale on the zootechnical performance, serological, and microbiological parameters of Ross 308 chicken. To achieve this purpose, 180 chicks divided into five groups and reared for 12 days. The experimental groups consisted of a control group receiving a conventional feed without antibiotics and four groups receiving a conventional feed with 0.5 and 1% turmeric and ginger doses, respectively. Results of the experiment revealed that supplementing the feed with 0.5% turmeric powder increased live weight, and average daily gain and decreased feed conversion compared to the other groups. Turmeric powder supplement (0.5 and 1%) affected blood serum parameters by decreasing triglyceride and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) concentrations. In comparison, the incorporation of 0.5% ginger in the diet decreased triglyceride concentrations, cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferases (ASAT), and alanine aminotransferases (ALAT). Cecum bacteriological analysis showed a total absence of coliforms, Salmonella sp., Clostridium sp., and lactic acid bacteria in the chick groups supplemented with different doses of turmeric and ginger (0.5 and 1%, respectively). Within this study’s limits, using these two studied spices as additives in poultry feed allowed us to conclude that supplementing with 0.5% turmeric powder positively impacted the evaluated parameters.

Live weight peculiarities of the Tsigai breed young sheep during the suckling period in connection with the terms of sheep ewes’ gestation

The correlation of the Tsigai breed ewes’ gestation period with the patterns of growth and development of the sheep growing stock during the suckling period was explored in the article. The dates of inseminations and calvings were selected for analysis to calculate the duration of ewes' gestation and indicators of live weight of young animals at birth and at weaning with subsequent calculation of correlations between these traits. The average duration of the ewes’ gestation period is 157.76 ± 0.61 days (Cv=7.6%). The single-born ewe lambs of the No. 01684 line were higher in live weight by 6.9% (р ≤ 0.001), and higher in average daily gain by 6.0% (р ≤ 0.001) than the sample averages at weaning. The single-born ram lambs the No. 80077 line have a significant advantage in terms of live weight at weaning by 9.1% (р ≤ 0.01), and in terms of average daily gains by 11.8% (р ≤ 0.05). Single-born ram lambs of the No. 01684 and No. 66796 lines with a reduced live weight at birth grow more intensively: a significant advantage in terms of live weight at weaning and average daily growth, respectively, is 12.1% (р ≤ 0.001) and 9.6 % (р ≤ 0.01) higher in comparison with the average sample values. Twin ewe lambs of the No. 80077 line with a lower live weight at birth by 0.2% and an increased weight at birth by 0.4, the difference of which is also not reliable, nevertheless have a significant advantage in average daily growth compared to the average – by 9.1% (р ≤ 0.001), while the twin ram lambs have no significant difference in the indicators of the suckling period. Milkiness is negatively associated with the duration of pregnancy of ewes and positively with the lambs live weight at weaning period. In order to establish a line for increased multiplicity, it is necessary to select ewe lambs to be used in the replacement stock from twin litters in the line No. 80077. The increased live weight of young animals from single litters is formed by the parent livestock of No. 01684, 20832, 65204 and 80077 lines. The advantage of twin ram lambs in terms of live weight over the average values has not been proven.

Selection and genetic parameters of sheep of the Aginskaya breed of the Zugalay type

The results of the study of selectable traits, exterior-constitutional features of medium wool sheep of the Aginskaya breed of the Zugalay type are presented. The data of correlation-regression, variance analysis are given, according to the results of which paired and multifactor regression models have been designed. Body weight (6.4–12.6%), down length (19.3–19.7%) and awn length (13.1–16.9%) and cannon bone girth (9.1%) are characterized by the greatest variability in the studied sheep. In terms of physique indices, rams are distinguished by longer legs, better breast development, stronger bones, ewe lambs are distinguished by a more stretched, bunched and massive body with a better developed hind part. Correlation analysis of the breeding traits with external body parts indicates that live weight and wool clip in rams has a closer correlation with linear measurements in comparison with ewe lambs. In both males and females, live weight was more strongly correlated with the width in the dippers, wool clip – with the width at hips in rams, in ewe lambs the relationship was weak or practically absent. Linear regression coefficients indicate that live weight and wool clip gain in rams are predicted by an increase per unit in hip width (4.37 abs. gain; r = 0.824; p < 0.001 and 0.13 abs. gain; r = 0.792; p < 0.001). The coefficient of determination showed that in rams the changes in live weight and wool clip by 67.9 and 62.8% were explained by the width at hips, the influence of other factors – 32.1 and 37.2%, respectively. In multifactor regression models, 90.3 and 78.0% of changes in body weight and wool clip in rams are explained by the influence of a complex of linear measurements, in ewe lambs – by 25.7 and 17.5%, respectively, the remaining share is attributed to the influence of other factors, respectively.

Synergistic Effects of Hydroxychloride and Organic Zinc on Performance, Carcass Characteristics, Liver and Tibia Mineral Profiles of Broiler Chickens

AbstractThis study investigated the potential synergism between hydroxychloride and organic zinc (Zn) at different levels on performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens. There were seven experimental diets including a negative control diet without any supplemental Zn, and six diets with 80 mg/kg added Zn in the forms of ZnSO4, hydroxychloride Zn (HCZ) and organic Zn (ORZ), and a combination of HCZ and ORZ at 40 mg/kg HCZ + 40 mg/kg ORZ (HCZ40-ORZ40), 55 mg/kg HCZ + 25 mg/kg ORZ (HCZ55-ORZ25), and 70 mg/kg HCZ + 10 mg/kg ORZ (HCZ70-ORZ10). Each diet was replicated eight times with 17 chicks per replicate. On day 35, HCZ70-ORZ10 and HCZ40-ORZ40 diets resulted in the highest body weights (P < 0.05). Throughout the entire production period (1–35 days), all HCZ and ORZ diets significantly improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to PC (P < 0.05), with HCZ40-ORZ40 showing the lowest FCR. Breast meat yield was lower in NC-fed birds, while HCZ80 and HCZ70-ORZ10 groups had the lowest abdominal fat weight (P < 0.05). Liver and gizzard weight, tibia breaking strength, and ash percentage, footpad dermatitis, and hock burns were not affected. Tibia Zn content was higher in HCZ or ORZ-supplemented birds compared to NC (P < 0.05), whereas other minerals in tibia and liver were unaffected. In summary, the absence of supplemental Zn negatively affects growth and carcass characteristics, whereas replacing ZnSO4 with HCZ, ORZ, or their combinations improves bodyweight and FCR. HCZ70-ORZ10 and HCZ40-ORZ40 were identified as optimal combinations for maximizing feed efficiency.

Effects of Feeding Systems on the Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics, and Meat Quality in Sheep: A Meta-Analysis.

Meat quality is important in the meat-production chain. Conflicting reports of the effects of feeding systems on sheep growth performance and meat quality exist. By way of meta-analysis, we reviewed the literature on the growth and slaughter performance, and meat quality of lambs that grazed solely on pasture, those that grazed on pasture but received a dietary supplement, and those were exclusively fed indoors. The relevant literature comprised 28 papers, from which response variables of interest were obtained. Compared with stall-fed sheep, pasture-grazing led to significantly (p < 0.05) lower average daily gain, slaughter live weight, hot carcass weight, cold carcass weight, and similar dressing percentage, but pasture-grazed sheep fed a supplement had similar (p > 0.05) values for each of these attributes to stall-fed sheep. The quality of the longissimus muscle from lambs that grazed either exclusively on pasture or pasture with a supplement had significantly (p < 0.05) lower lightness and intramuscular fat content, and significantly (p < 0.05) higher yellowness, Warner-Bratzler shear force, and protein content than meat from stall-fed sheep. We conclude that sheep that have fed exclusively on pasture have lower carcass yield and meat edibility, but improved meat quality, and that pasture-fed sheep that received a supplement had comparable carcass attributes, but greater meat color and health quality than stall-fed sheep.

AMPK-Mediated Hypolipidemic Effects of a Salvia miltiorrhiza and Paeonia lactiflora Mixed Extract on High-Fat Diet-Induced Liver Triglyceride Accumulation: An In Vivo and In Vitro Study.

This study investigates the hypolipidemic effects of a mixed extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza and Paeonia lactiflora (USCP119) in HFD-fed hamsters and in vitro cellular models. Over an 8-week period, HFD-fed hamsters were assigned to one of six groups: normal diet, HFD control, HFD with 50 mg/kg USCP119, HFD with 100 mg/kg USCP119, HFD with 50 mg/kg USCP119 twice daily (BID), and HFD with omega-3 fatty acids. Key outcomes assessed included body weight, serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), liver weight, hepatic TG levels, and epididymal fat. In cellular models, the impact of USCP119 on lipid accumulation and adipogenic markers was evaluated. USCP119 treatment at 50 mg/kg BID resulted in the lowest weight gain (15.5%) and the most significant reductions in serum TG and hepatic TG levels compared to the HFD control. The 100 mg/kg dose also led to substantial reductions in serum TG and TC levels and notable decreases in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. USCP119 at 50 mg/kg once daily reduced TG and TC levels but was less effective than the higher doses. In cellular models, USCP119 was non-toxic up to 400 µg/mL and effectively reduced lipid accumulation, modulated adipogenic markers, and enhanced AMPK signaling, improving lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. All USCP119 treatments demonstrated effectiveness in managing hyperlipidemia and related metabolic disorders, with variations in impact depending on the dosage. The ability of USCP119 to reduce fat accumulation, improve lipid profiles, and enhance insulin sensitivity highlights its potential as a valuable dietary supplement for addressing high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia and metabolic disturbances.

Comparative Study on Hepatoprotective Effects of Traditional Herbs, Roots of Angelica gigas Nakai, Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fischer, Zizyphus jujuba Mill., and Fruits of Paeonia lactiflora Pall., on Ethanol-Induced Liver Injury in Mice.

Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a major cause of chronic liver disease, with few effective treatments besides alcohol abstinence. Angelicae Gigantis Radix (AG), Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (GR), Paeoniae Radix (PR), and Zizyphi Fructus (ZF) are traditional herbs used to treat various ailments, including liver diseases. While several studies have reported the beneficial effects of GR on ALD, the effects of AG, PR, and ZF remain underexplored. Therefore, their efficacy and mechanisms against ALD were investigated using an alcohol-related liver injury model. The model was induced by ethanol gavage in C57BL/6J mice for 14 days, followed by oral administration of AG, GR, PR, and ZF one hour post-induction. The administration of these herbs reduced liver weight, and improved serum biomarkers of liver injury (ALT, AST, albumin). The herbs enhanced hepatic antioxidant capacity (GSH, SOD, catalase) and suppressed the production of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) and apoptotic changes (caspase-3). The mechanisms of action involved lipid-lowering gene modulation through regulation of the cytochrome P450 2E1/Sirtuin 1/Nrf2 pathways. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses revealed that these herbs attenuated hepatocyte damage and steatosis via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects. These findings suggest that traditional herbs, particularly AG, could be promising alternative therapies for treating ALD.

Response of maiden ewes to the ‘ram effect’ is a robust management practice and a candidate selection trait for enhanced reproductive performance in drylands

Management of reproduction that relies on naturally based solutions is extremely important to counter the negative perception around hormone-based interventions. In Mediterranean latitudes and wider regions of non-tropical drylands, sheep do not normally ovulate during spring but exposure to a ram can induce oestrus and ovulation. This study assesses the response of maiden Barbarine ewes in drylands to the ‘ram effect’ during springtime and estimates the genetic parameters of this response. The study uses a database documenting, for 24 consecutive years, the response of nulliparous 18-month-old ewes when mated after stimulation by the ‘ram effect.’ In addition to the oestrous and fertility database, a pedigree database was also available. Nearly half of the maiden ewes responded to the ‘ram effect,’ while 24% exhibited spontaneous reproductive activity and displayed oestrus during the first 14 days following the introduction of rams. Nearly 5% of females did not exhibit oestrus, and these animals are proposed for early culling. Average annual values of Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), reflecting vegetation cover, and the percent of maiden ewes spontaneously cycling were positively correlated (P = 0.006). Interestingly, NDVI was negatively correlated with the percentage of anoestrus females that did not respond to the ‘ram effect’ but exhibited oestrus beyond the hypothetical time frame commonly used to describe it. Average fertility was 82.8% and was significantly affected by mating year, live weight at mating, and the response to the ‘ram effect.’ The highest fertility (88.39%) was for females spontaneously cycling at the time of ram introduction, and the lowest (83.35%) was for females coming into oestrus beyond the time frame for a ram-induced oestrus and ovulation. Heritability from a univariate logit-transformed analysis for fertility was 0.10 and the genetic correlation between fertility and the interval between ram introduction and oestrus was 0.26, suggesting that a shorter interval is associated with higher fertility. Thus, the interval between ram introduction and oestrus is a good candidate for selective breeding for high fertility of maiden ewes in drylands mated out-of-season using the ‘ram effect.’

Live black soldier fly larvae as environmental enrichment for native chickens: implications for bird performance, welfare, and excreta microbiota

Dietary live insect larvae were recently proposed for use in laying hens and broiler−intensive chicken farming as an innovative form of environmental enrichment, but their use in native dual-purpose chickens has never been investigated. This study aims to evaluate the effects of live black soldier fly (BSF) larvae as environmental enrichment in two autochthonous dual-purpose chicken breeds, namely Bionda Piemontese (BP) and Bianca di Saluzzo (BS), in terms of bird performance, behaviour, integument status, excreta corticosterone metabolites (ECMs), and microbiota analyses. A total of 90 BP and 90 BS hens aged 308 days old were randomly distributed between two treatment groups (three replicates/group/breed, 15 hens/replicate). For the following 90 days, the control group (C) was fed a commercial feed only, whereas the BSF group was fed the commercial diet plus BSF live larvae calculated at 6% of the expected daily feed intake (DFI). Larva ingestion time, bird performance, integument scores, and behavioural observations were assessed at regular intervals, and excreta samples were collected to evaluate ECM and microbiota. The larva ingestion time became faster over the course of the experimental trial (P < 0.001). The DFI of BSF-fed hens was lower than that of C hens independently of breed (P < 0.001), whereas only in the BS hens, the live weight of the BSF-fed group was greater than that of the C group (P < 0.01). The BSF-fed BP hens showed a higher laying rate and feed conversion ratio compared with BSF-BS (P < 0.05). Better total integument scores were observed in BSF-fed BP hens compared with C-birds (P < 0.05). The BSF-fed hens displayed higher frequencies of preening, trotting, and wing flapping than C, as well as a lower incidence of severe feather pecking (P < 0.05). An increase in allopreening was only identified in BSF-fed BS hens with respect to the C hens (P < 0.001). No differences in ECM and faecal microbiota were observed between treatment groups. In conclusion, the administration of BSF live larvae as environmental enrichment has the potential to positively influence the welfare of both BP and BS chickens, by enhancing the frequency of positive behaviours whilst reducing severe feather pecking, without affecting their excreta microbiota. BSF larva administration also has the potential to improve the productive performance and the plumage status of the BP breed.

Signatures of selection analyses reveal genomic differences among three heavy pig breeds that constitute the genetic backbone of a dry-cured ham production system

The Italian pig farming industry is unique in its focus on raising heavy pigs primarily for the production of high-quality dry-cured hams. These products require pigs to be slaughtered at a live weight of around 170 kg at 9 months of age. The primary breeds used in this system are Italian Duroc, Italian Landrace, and Italian Large White which are crossed to produce lines that meet standard requirements. Over the past four decades, selection and breeding programmes for these breeds have been subjected to distinct selective pressures to highlight the characteristics of each breed. In this study, we investigated the genome of these breeds by analysing high-density single nucleotide polymorphism data from over 9 000 pigs to scan for signatures of selection using four different methods, two within breeds and two across breeds. This allowed to identify the genomic regions that differentiate these breeds as well as any relevant genes and biological terms. On a global scale, we found that the Italian Duroc breed exhibited a higher genetic differentiation from the Italian Landrace and Italian Large White breeds, with a pairwise FST value of 0.20 compared with the 0.13 between Italian Landrace and Italian Large White. This may reflect either their different origins or the different breeding goals, which are more similar for the Italian Landrace and Italian Large White breeds. Despite these genetic differences at a global level, few signatures of selection regions reached complete fixation, possibly due to challenges in detecting selection linked to quantitative polygenic traits. The differences among the three breeds are confirmed by the low level of overlap in the regions detected. Genetic enrichment analyses of the three breeds revealed pathways and genes related to various productive traits associated with growth and fat deposition. This may indicate a common selection direction aimed at enhancing specific production traits, though different biological mechanisms are likely targeted by the same directional selection in these three breeds. Therefore, these genes may play a critical role in determining the distinctive characteristics of Italian Duroc, Italian Landrace, and Italian Large White, and potentially influence the traits in crossbred pigs derived from them. Overall, the insights gained from this study will contribute to understanding how directional selection has shaped the genome of these heavy pig breeds and to better address selection strategies aimed at enhancing the meat processing industry linked with dry-cured ham production chains.

Efficacy of Dichrostachys Glomerata Supplementation on Overweight and Mildly Obese Adult’s Weight, Mood, and Health-Related Quality of Life: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial

Despite their widespread use, research is needed to evaluate the weight loss and related health/wellness outcomes of herbal plants. Preliminary research found that the fruit of Dichrostachys glomerata is safe and has potential weight loss effects. This study aimed to examine the effect of a standardized powder of D. glomerata fruit pods (DYG-400®) on weight, food cravings, mood, and health-related quality of life of overweight and mildly obese adults. In this CONSORT-compliant double-blind placebo-controlled trial, 56 adults (Mean [M] age = 44.50, M [body mass index] BMI = 31.66) were randomized to either the D. glomerata Group (DG; 300 mg/d) or Placebo Group (PG; rice protein, 300 mg/d) for 60 days. Participants weight was assessed along with self-report assessments of the Food Cravings Questionnaire, CDC Health-related Quality of Life, Perceived Stress Scale, Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Profile of Mood States at Baseline, Day 30, and Day 60. The data were collected from March 2023 to June 2023 and stored electronically, and analyzed using general linear models with repeated measures. DG lost more weight at Day 60 compared to PG, p = .05 (4.11 vs. 2.19 lbs). DG had reduced food cravings from Baseline to Day 30 and Day 60 compared to PG, p < .001. Perceived stress, p < .001, and mood, p = .017, improved from Baseline to Day 60 for DG compared to PG. Anxiety decreased from Baseline to Day 60 for DG and from Baseline to Day 30 for PG, p < .001. Health-related Quality of Life improved for DG compared to PG, p < .001. D. glomerata (DYG-400®) may be an effective herbal intervention to promote weight loss and health. Extended clinical trials across diverse populations and settings are needed. Clinical trial registry number and website: ISRCTN10099861, https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN10099861.

Systematic pharmacology and experimental validation to elucidate the inflammation-associated mechanism of Huanglian Wendan (HLWD) decoction in the treatment of MAFLD associated with atherosclerosis

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMetabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and atherosclerosis are very common disorders that frequently coexist. The therapeutic efficacy of Huanglian Wendan (HLWD) decoction, a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription, is satisfactory in treating MAFLD associated with atherosclerosis. However, the underlying mechanisms through which HLWD exerts its effects need to be elucidated. Given the complex composition of HLWD and its multiple therapeutic targets, pharmacological investigation is challenging. Aim of this studyThis study aimed to identify the effective compounds in HLWD and elucidate the mechanisms involved in its therapeutic effect on MAFLD associated with atherosclerosis. Materials and methodsWe used a systematic pharmacology method to identify effective compounds present in HLWD and determine the mechanism by which it affects MAFLD associated with atherosclerosis. The effective components of HLWD were identified through ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-q exactive-orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS). Next, a comprehensive in silico method was used to predict potential related targets and disease targets for these compounds to establish corresponding pathways. The accuracy of our assumed systemic pharmacology results was determined by conducting follow-up experiments. ResultsBy conducting UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS combined with network analysis, we identified 18 potentially active components of HLWD and assessed the inflammatory regulatory mechanism by which it affects MAFLD associated with atherosclerosis on the basis of 52 key targets. We used a high-fat, high-cholesterol (HFHC)-induced mice model of MAFLD associated with atherosclerosis to confirm our results. We found that administering HLWD significantly improved the appearance of their liver and reduced their body weight, liver weight, blood lipids, hepatic damage, and hepatic pathology. HLWD also decreased atherosclerotic lesion areas, foam cells, and inflammatory cells in the aorta. HLWD showed anti-inflammatory effects, suppressed M1 polarization, and promoted M2 polarization in the liver and aorta. HLWD might also regulate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ)/nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling to influence macrophage polarization and inflammation. ConclusionsOur results showed that HLWD protected against HFHC diet-induced MAFLD associated with atherosclerosis by regulating PPARγ/NF-κB signaling, thus adjusting macrophage polarization and inflammation. Additionally, pharmacochemistry research, network pharmacology analysis, and experimental verification can be combined to form a comprehensive model used in studies on TCM.

Research Note: The infectious bursal disease (Gumboro disease) vaccination scheme affects the quantitative and qualitative carcass characteristics and the immune response of Ross 308 broiler chickens

After different vaccinations, the study aimed to assess carcass composition, meat quality, and the level of the infectious bursal disease antibody titers in broiler chickens. In the experiment, 4 (30 chicks per group, 120 total) groups of Ross 308 broiler chickens (males and females) were included. Then, they were vaccinated at the hatchery. Group I was immunized against infectious avian bronchitis (IB) and Newcastle disease (ND) using vaccine A (20 mL/100 birds) and vaccine B (20 mL/100 birds), respectively, with injectable vaccine C (0.2 mL/each) targeting Infectious bursal' and Marek's diseases (MD). Group II received the same vaccinations for IB and ND, with separate injectable D vaccines for MD (0.2 mL/unit) and E for infectious bursal' disease (0.2 mL/each). Group III was similarly vaccinated for IB and ND; however, they received only vaccine D (0.2 mL/each) for MD, and on d 23, vaccine F was administered via drinking water against Gumboro disease (0.05 mL/each). Group IV served as the control and was not vaccinated. Ten carcasses from each group on d 42 were taken for carcass composition analysis and meat quality, including pH, color, and water-holding capacity (WHC). During rearing, on d 14, 28, and 42, blood was collected to determine the level of antibodies against infectious bursal' disease. Additionally, hematocrit (HCT), hemoglobin (HGB), and red blood cells were analyzed. In group I, a higher bursa of Fabricius weight than in the other groups was found (P < 0.001), and the liver weight was lower compared to group II (P = 0.020). In breast muscle, the pH24 was higher in the control group than in group I (P = 0.036). Lightness (L*) in breast and leg muscles from group I was higher than in group II (P < 0.05). WHC was higher in group I than in group II (P = 0.025). The antibody titers of infectious bursal' disease was higher in group I on d 28 than in other groups (P < 0.05). Vaccine C (1 dose 0.2 mL/1 bird) of the reconstituted vaccine with the live recombinant virus strain vHVT013-69, not less than 3.6 - 5.0 log10 PFU) had a beneficial effect.

Effects of propolis extract administration on immune parameters, faecal consistency scores, and growth performance of Holstein-Friesian calves.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of Ethanolic Extract of Propolis (EEP) administration on immune parameters, faecal consistency scores, growth performance, and feed efficiency of Holstein Friesian calves. A total of 24 calves were divided into two different groups, control (n = 12) and EEP (n = 12). Both groups consisted of 6 male and 6 female calves. The calves were fed milk amounting to 10% of their birth weight each day until they reached 60days of age. Additionally, they were given starter feed and dry hay once a day. Calves assigned to the EEP group received 4ml of EEP daily. Use of EEP increased (P < 0.05) the serum IgG and IgM levels at 2months of age compared to the control group. EEP also showed efficacy (P < 0.01) in reducing faecal consistency in calves throughout the study. The levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and NF-κB expression in calves treated with EEP were lower (P < 0.05) throughout the EEP application period. On the other hand, IGF-1 mRNA transcript levels were (P < 0.01) higher in EEP group calves than in the control group. Furthermore, EEP-fed calves consumed less dry matter for 1kg of live weight gain during the weaning-4months (P < 0.01) and birth-4months (P < 0.05) periods. These results indicate that EEP supplementation, through its immunostimulatory effects, plays a crucial role in the control of neonatal calf diarrhoea. Growth and development as well as IGF-1, which stimulates growth in almost all somatic cells, was also significantly increased by EEP supplementation. The combined effect of the rich bioactive compounds found in EEP appears to have a significant impact on health and well-being, resulting in improved early life performance in dairy calves.

Maternal effects and its importance in the genetic evaluations of preweaning live weight traits of beef cattle. A review.

Maternal effects in cattle genetics are defined as the causal influence of the phenotype or maternal genotype on the offspring's phenotype by effects occurring when the genetic and environmental characteristics of the mother influence the phenotype of the offspring beyond the direct inheritance of genes. Its relevance has been strongly described in genetic models focused on the genetic improvement of preweaning traits in cow-calf beef cattle production systems. Here, basic concepts and the importance of maternal effects when using linear and animal model procedures for genetic evaluations of growth and live-weight traits in beef cattle are reviewed and discussed. A brief history of estimation methods from classical studies to recent studies used for the development of animal models for studying maternal effects is also provided. Some important biometric concepts for maternal effect estimation are described, and the antagonism between direct genetic effects and maternal effects, its biological basis, and sources of error in the estimation of direct genetic and maternal covariance are discussed. Finally, some genomic perspectives are presented.

Ameliorating Effect of Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) Seed and Peel Extracts with Selenium on Ochratoxin-A Exposed Renal Dysfunction in Male Wistar Rats

Background and AimDrug-induced nephrotoxicity is extensively documented as the initial stage of kidney disease that particularly results in acute renal injury and chronic renal dysfunction. The single and combined effect of grape peel extract (GPE), grape seed extracts (GSE) and selenium (Sel) were investigated in current study for controlling of renal injury induced by Ochratoxin-A (OTA) in male rats. MethodsForty nine male Wistar rats weighing 200 ± 10 g were injected with OTA (0.5 mg/kg bw) to induce nephrotoxicity, then treated with singleand combined applications of GSE, GPE and Sel. In addition, the OTA induced nephrotoxicity rats were screened for various biological and physiological parameters like food ingestion, body weight gain, liver weight, serum kidney biomarkers, serum lipid fractions, enzymatic and non-enzymatic lipid peroxidation indicators and histopathological studies. ResultsOur findings suggested that the combination of GSE 2 % and Sel (50–50) treatment reduced renal dysfunction in OTA-induced rats by significantly lowering lipid peroxidation indicators, lipid and kidneys profiles and enhancing enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants biomarkers followed by GSE 2 % then Selenium (0.4 mg/kg) in OTA. Histological analysis of the kidney revealed more severe renal tubule degeneration in OTA-induced rats, While GSE and GPE combonation showed only moderate glomerular tuft enlargement and minimal renal tubule deterioration. Furthermore, the combination of GSE 2 %+Sel (50–50) revealed normal histological structure. ConclusionsGrape seed extracts along with selenium mightbe used as dietary supplements to reduce renal toxicity induced by chemicals or compounds that cause nephrotoxicity.