Mixed Sex Research Articles

Synaptojanin1 Modifies Endolysosomal Parameters in Cultured Ventral Midbrain Neurons.

The accumulation of α-synuclein (α-syn)-enriched protein aggregates is thought to arise from dysfunction in degradation systems within the brain. Recently, missense mutations of SYNJ1 encoding the SAC1 and 5'-phosphatase domains have been found in families with hereditary early-onset Parkinsonism. Previous studies showed that Synj1 haploinsufficiency (Synj1+/-) leads to accumulation of the autophagy substrate p62 and pathologic α-syn proteins in the midbrain (MB) and striatum of aged mice. In this study, we aim to investigate the neuronal degradation pathway using the Synj1+/- MB culture from mouse pups of mixed sex as a model. Our data show that GFP-LC3 puncta formation and cumulative mKeima puncta formation are unaltered at baseline in Synj1+/- MB neurons. However, GFP-LAMP1 puncta is reduced with a similar decrease in endogenous proteins, including lysosomal-associated membrane protein (LAMP)1, LAMP2, and LAMP2A. The LAMP1 vesicles are hyperacidified with enhanced enzymatic activity in Synj1+/- MB neurons. Using a combination of light and electron microscopy (EM), we show that endolysosomal changes are primarily associated with a lack of SAC1 activity. Consistently, expressing the SYNJ1 R258Q mutant in N2a cells reduces the lysosome number. Interestingly, the endolysosomal defects in Synj1+/- neurons does not impact the clearance of exogenously expressed wild-type (WT) α-syn; however, the clearance of α-syn A53T was impaired in the axons of Synj1+/- MB neurons. Taken together, our results suggest axonal vulnerability to endolysosomal defects in Synj1-deficient MB neurons.

Mitofusin 2 sustains the axonal mitochondrial network to support presynaptic Ca2+ homeostasis and the synaptic vesicle cycle in rat hippocampal axons.

Mitochondria exert powerful control over cellular physiology, contributing to ion homeostasis, energy production, and metabolite biosynthesis. The trafficking and function of these organelles are particularly important in neurons, with impaired mitochondrial function or altered morphology observed in every neurodegenerative disorder studied. While mitochondrial biosynthetic products play a crucial role in maintaining cellular function, their resulting byproducts can have negative consequences. Thus, organelle quality control (QC) mechanisms that maintain mitochondrial function are imperative to restrict destructive signaling cascades in the cell. Axons are particularly sensitive to damage, and there is little consensus regarding the mechanisms that mediate mitochondrial QC in this compartment.Here, we first investigated the unstressed behavior of mitochondria in rat hippocampal neurons of mixed sex, focusing on mitochondrial trafficking and fusion to better understand potential QC mechanisms. We observed size and redox asymmetry of mitochondrial traffic in axons, suggesting an active QC mechanism in this compartment. We also document biochemical complementation upon the fusion and fission of axonal mitochondria. Eliminating fusion by knocking down the neuronal mitochondrial fusion protein mitofusin 2 (MFN2) reduced the rates of axonal mitochondrial trafficking and fusion, decreased the levels of synaptic vesicle (SV) proteins, inhibited exocytosis, and impaired SV recruitment from the reserve pool during extended stimulation. MFN2 knockdown also resulted in presynaptic Ca2+ dyshomeostasis. Remarkably, upon MFN2 knockdown, presynaptic mitochondria sequestered Ca2+ more efficiently, effectively limiting presynaptic Ca2+ transients during stimulation. These results support an active mitochondrial trafficking and fusion-related QC process that supports presynaptic Ca2+ handling and the SV cycle.Significance statement:Decreased or altered mitochondrial function is observed in many disease states. All neurodegenerative diseases co-present with some sort of mitochondrial abnormality. Therefore, identifying quality control mechanisms that sustain the mitochondrial network in neurons, and particularly in axons, is of significant interest. The response of axonal mitochondria to acutely applied toxins or injury has been studied in detail. Although informative, the response of neurons to these insults might not be physiologically relevant, so it is crucial to also study the basal behavior of axonal mitochondria. Here, we use fluorescent biosensors to investigate the mitochondrial network in neurons and examine the role of mitofusin 2 in maintaining the axonal mitochondrial network and in supporting the synaptic vesicle cycle.

Integrating dynamic processes into waterfowl conservation prioritization tools

Diversity and DistributionsEarly View CORRIGENDUMOpen Access Integrating dynamic processes into waterfowl conservation prioritization tools This article corrects the following: Integrating dynamic processes into waterfowl conservation prioritization tools Kaylan M. Kemink, Vanessa M. Adams, Robert L. Pressey, Gwen Iacona, Volume 27Issue 4Diversity and Distributions pages: 585-601 First Published online: December 30, 2020 First published: 22 March 2023 https://doi.org/10.1111/ddi.13691AboutSectionsPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat In the version of this paper originally published (Kemink et al., 2021), the authors would like to acknowledge a wording error which was included throughout the published paper. The authors referred to the spatiotemporal modelled predictions as ‘pair abundance models’, calculated using the equation: VIF (P + LM), when in actuality the authors modelled waterfowl breeding population VIF ((2P + 2LM) + G) where G represents mixed sex groups of waterfowl. This is largely a scaling error as the input values resulting from those two equations are correlated (correlation = 0.99). All of the resulting proportions and conclusions can remain the same. The modelling processes that the authors have rerun thus far have indicated identical model selection, correlations, etc. The authors would also like to acknowledge that some minor changes have also been made to some of the table and figure legends in the supporting information file which can be accessed as part of the online article publication. REFERENCE Kemink, K. M., Adams, V. M., & Pressey, R. L. (2021). Integrating dynamic processes into waterfowl conservation prioritization tools. Diversity and Distributions, 27, 585– 601. https://doi.org/10.1111/ddi.13218 Early ViewOnline Version of Record before inclusion in an issue ReferencesRelatedInformation

1400 W, a selective inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, mitigates early neuroinflammation and nitrooxidative stress in diisopropylfluorophosphate-induced short-term neurotoxicity rat model.

Organophosphate nerve agent (OPNA) exposure induces acute and long-term neurological deficits. OPNA exposure at sub-lethal concentrations induces irreversible inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and cholinergic toxidrome and develops status epilepticus (SE). Persistent seizures have been associated with increased production of ROS/RNS, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration. A total of 1400W is a novel small molecule, which irreversibly inhibits inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and has been shown to effectively reduce ROS/RNS generation. In this study, we investigated the effects of 1400W treatment for a week or two weeks at 10 mg/kg or 15 mg/kg per day in the rat diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) model. 1400W significantly reduced the number of microglia, astroglia, and NeuN+FJB positive cells compared to the vehicle in different regions of the brain. 1400W also significantly reduced nitrooxidative stress markers and proinflammatory cytokines in the serum. However, neither of the two concentrations of 1400W for two weeks of treatment had any significant effect on epileptiform spike rate and spontaneous seizures during the treatment period in mixed sex cohorts, males, or females. No significant sex differences were found in response to DFP exposure or 1400W treatment. In conclusion, 1400W treatment at 15 mg/kg per day for two weeks was more effective in significantly reducing DFP-induced nitrooxidative stress, neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative changes.

Acute Toxicity Effect of Crude Leaves Extract of Thevetia peruviana on Full Blood Count and some Organs of Clarias gariepinus Juveniles

Background: Many toxicity studies have shown that heamatological and histological alterations are widely used as good bioindicators in determining the effect of toxicants on fish. This study investigated the acute toxicity effects of the leaf extract of Thevetia peruviana on full blood count parameters and some organs of Clarias gariepinus juveniles”. Methods: One hundred and twenty C. gariepinus mixed sex juveniles were exposed to acute con-centrations (0.63, 1.25, 2.50, 5.00, and 10.00g/L ) of leave extract of T. peruviana in twelve 20 L capacity rectangular glass tanks with six treatments and bi-replicated. Blood for full blood count was collected through cardiac puncture while gills and liver were excised and analyzed for histo-pathological alterations. Results: PCV, RBC, Hb, Neu, and Lym of C. gariepinus juveniles inversely decreased while WBC directly increased with acute concentrations of T. peruviana leaves extract. The microscopic examination of the gills revealed concentration-dependent histo-architectural alterations expressed as epical clubbing, haemorrhage, desquamation, atrophy, and complete erosion of secondary lamel-lae. The liver showed moderate to severe concentration-dependent histopathological lesions typi-fied by hypertrophy, atrophy, necrosis, kupffer cell proliferation, and hepatocellular degenerations. Conclusion: Given the alterations in the blood, gills and liver noted in this study, the invasive growth of the T. peruviana plant should be controlled to minimize unwanted fish kill.

Use of biologically relevant enrichment to improve nursery-aged pig weaning transition

The objective of this study was to determine if a biologically relevant environmental enrichment (EE) biscuit-maintained novelty and affected nursery pig performance over the first seven days. Thirty mixed sex piglets, aged 19-24 days, were allocated to 3 pens. Each pen received 2 ropes with 2 biscuits per rope (defined as the EE) at the feeder for the first 7 days after weaning. Each pen was randomly allocated 1 of 3 treatments: positive control (POS, plain biscuits), maternal pheromone (MP, biscuits dipped in an oil-based sow maternal pheromone), and jam (JAM, biscuits dipped in strawberry jam). Biscuits were replaced daily. Descriptive data collected included EE interactions, average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and fecal scores. EE interactions were evaluated in the 1st and 12th hour after daily EE replacement using instantaneous scan sampling at 10 second intervals. Average EE interaction frequency across the 1st hour was POS 372 ± 165, JAM 291 ± 96, MP 314 ± 223. Interaction frequency was consistently higher during the 1st hour compared to the 12th hour after EE replacement. ADG and ADFI were highest for pigs in the POS treatments (ADG 0.234, kg/d, ADFI 0.20 ± 0.13 kg/d) and lowest for pigs in the JAM treatment (ADG 0.186 kg/d, ADFI 0.16 ± 0.09 kg/d). In conclusion, nursery pigs showedhigh levels of interaction with the environmental enrichment over the entire week, and POS treatment was the most successful in enticing pigs to interact with the EE with potential impacts on subsequent performance.

Hospital architecture matters – rethinking the role of mixed sex wards and family rooms in psychiatric hospitals

AbstractHospital built environment can affect patient clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction with care and treatment, staff performance and wellbeing, and carers/visitors’ engagement with services. Little is known about which urban planning, architecture and interior design characteristics can make environments therapeutic or detrimental for users.We hope that the audience attending this presentation will i) get a good understanding of the impact of the hospital-built environment on patients, staff and visitors/carers and ii) understand which design elements can improve patient satisfaction with care.As hospitals are among the most expensive facilities to build, their design should be guided by research evidence. In this presentation, we will review existing research evidence in this field and present our study of 18 psychiatric hospitals in Italy and the United Kingdom. Our findings indicate that out of several hospital built environment characteristics, two have the power to increase patient satisfaction with care.These are (availability of ) mixed-sex wards and rooms to meet family off wards.We will show vignettes to further explore the role of mixed-sex wards and family rooms and discuss how to implement them when renovating, adapting or building mental health care facilities.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Effect of fiber source diet supplement on growth performance, carcass quality, oxidative stress and intestinal morphology in Thai native chicken (Pradu Hang dum)

Dietary fiber was used for reduce feed cost in local animal production. However, other advantages effects were interesting to study. Therefore, the objective of this research was to investigated effect of fiber source diet on performance, carcass quality, oxidative stress and intestinal morphology in Thai native chicken. A total of 300 one-day-old (mixed sex) crossbred native chicks (Pradu Hang dum) were randomly assigned to 5 treatments in completely randomized design (CRD). Each treatment had 10 replicates with the crossbred native chickens 6 bird/replicates (1 to 12 weeks of age) were given different levels of banana stem and Napier grass. Treatment diets received as follows a basal diet; 100%, no supplement or control group (CON), basal diet; 95%, 90% supplemented with the banana stem at 50 g/kg, 100 g/kg (BS 5%, BS 10%) of diet, respectively, and basal diet; 95%, 90% supplemented with the Napier grass at 50 g/kg, 100 g/kg (NG 5%, NG 10%) of diet, respectively. The results of the study showed that the use of fiber source: banana stem at 50 g/kg and Napier grass 100 g/kg of the diet improved growth performance. The result showed benefits to increase body weight, improve feed conversion ratio (FCR) and feed cost per gain (FCG), improve to gut health by increase villus height (VH), Villus width (VW) in duodenal and jejunal small intestine morphology, reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in serum (p < 0.001). In addition, significantly higher thigh meat percentage (p < 0.05) without effecting visceral weight and overall carcass percentage.

In vivo determination of domestic quail (Coturnix japonica) muscle development by ultrasonography as a function of energy levels

The aim was to evaluate the growth and meat production and some meat quality characteristics of domestic quail (Coturnix japonica) as a function of metabolizable energy (ME) levels in the diet and to adjust predicting equations in ratio to area pectoralis major muscle of the carcass through the ultrasound. Two hundred and seventy mixed sex quail from 7 to 49 days old were distributed in three treatments (7 to 21 days old, diets with 2700; 2900 and 3100 kcal ME/kg; from 21 to 49 days, diets with 2900, 3050 and 3200 kcal of ME/kg), with five replications per treatment. Ultrasonography was performed at 21; 35 and 49 days of age in the pectoralis major muscle to determine prediction equations through multiple linear regression. Feed intake (FI) and feed efficiency (FE) were linearly influenced (P < 0.05) by energy levels in both phases evaluated. Regarding sensory analysis, there was no interference of ME levels on sensory attributes. The equation for predicting breast area was Y = 0.00271*ME + 0.25411*Age-9.58002, R2 = 74.25%. It is concluded that increasing the energy level of the feed from 2700 to 3100 kcal ME/kg reduces FI and improves the FE of quail. The increase in carcass fat from 35 days of age does not harm the physical and sensory characteristics of the meat. The ultrasonography in vivo of the M. pectoralis major, considering the age and energy level of the diet, made it possible to predict the pectoral muscle are a with higher reliability.

Magnesium Reduces Hepatic Lipid Accumulation in Yellow Catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) and Modulates Lipogenesis and Lipolysis via PPARA, JAK-STAT, and AMPK Pathways in Hepatocytes

BackgroundMagnesium influences hepatic lipid deposition in vertebrates, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. ObjectiveWe used yellow catfish and their isolated hepatocytes to test the hypothesis that magnesium influences lipid deposition by modulating lipogenesis and lipolysis. MethodsJuvenile yellow catfish (mean ± SEM weight: 3.43 ± 0.02 g, 3 mo old, mixed sex) were fed a 0.14- (low), 0.87- (intermediate) or 2.11- (high) g Mg/kg diet for 56 d. Primary hepatocytes were incubated for 48 h in control or MgSO4-containing medium with or without 2-h pretreatment with an inhibitor (AG490, GW6471, or Compound C). Growth performance, cell viability, triglyceride (TG) concentrations, and expression of enzymes and genes involved in lipid metabolism were measured. ResultsCompared with fish fed low magnesium, those fed intermediate or high magnesium had lower hepatic lipids (18%, 22%) and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD; 3.7%, 3.8%) and malic enzyme (ME; 35%, 48%) activities and greater mRNA levels of the lipolytic genes adipose triacylglyceride lipase (atgl; 82% and 1.7-fold) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (ppara; 18% and 1.0-fold), respectively (P < 0.05). Relative mRNA levels of AMP-activated protein kinase (ampk) a1, ampka2, ampkb1, ampkb2, ampkg1a, ampkg1b, Janus kinase (jak) 2a, jak2b, and signal transducers and activators of transcription (stat) 3 in fish fed high magnesium were higher (24% to 3.1-fold, P < 0.05) than in those fed low or intermediate magnesium. Compared with cells incubated with MgSO4 alone, those incubated with MgSO4 and pretreated with AG490, GW6471, or Compound C had greater TG concentrations (42%, 31%, or 56%), g6pd (98%, 59%, or 51%), 6pgd (68%, 73%, or 32%) mRNA expression, and activities of G6PD (35%, 45%, or 16%) and ME (1.5-fold, 1.3-fold, or 13%), and reduced upregulation (61%, 25%, or 45%) of the lipolytic gene, atgl (P < 0.05). ConclusionsMagnesium reduced hepatic lipid accumulation in yellow catfish and the variation might be attributed to inhibited lipogenesis and increased lipolysis. PPARA, JAK-STAT, and AMPK pathways mediated the magnesium-induced changes in lipid deposition and metabolism. These results offer new insight into magnesium nutrition in vertebrates.

Effect of Different Processing Techniques of Kenaf Grain Meal in The Diets of Rabbits

Kenaf grain is rich in protein and energy but there is need for further processing for maximum utilization by livestock. Feed processing has been found to improve feed intake, weight gain and nutrient digestibility. A total of forty-eight crosses of Chinchilla and white California weaned rabbits of mixed sexes of mean weight 543.45±3.6g were used for the feeding trial that lasted for 90 days. Kenaf grain was processed by three different methods before incorporation with other feed ingredients. Four diets were formulated in which kenaf grain was not processed which served as Control (P1), Diet 2 (P2), Roasting of KG, Diet 3 (P3), Soaking of KG in water for 24 hours before air-drying, Diet 4 (P4), Cooking of KGM with water for 10 minutes before air-drying. The diets were formulated to contain 16% crude protein and energy of 2600kcal Metabolizable Energy/kg. Data were collected on feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and nutrient digestibility among others. The feed intake was significantly higher in P2, P3 and P4 containing roasted soaked and cooked kenaf grain meal as compared to diet containing unprocessed kenaf grain meal (P&lt;0.05). The weight gain of the rabbits improved when KGM was roasted, cooked or soaked before incorporated with other feed ingredients (P&lt;0.05). The efficiency of feed utilization was relatively similar in the diets containing processed kenaf grain meal. The crude protein and crude fibre digestibility were lowered at P1 containing diet with raw KGM (P&gt;0.05). The results of carcass analysis showed that the dressed weight and dressing percentage were better in the diet containing processed KGM. It could be concluded that processing of kenaf grain meal by roasting, soaking and blanching improved feed intake, nutrients digestibility, weight gain and dressing percentage of rabbits.

Growth performance, survivability and profitability of improved smallholder chicken genetics in Nigeria: A COVID-19 intervention study.

The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on smallholder farming households (SFH) includes increased poverty, and loss of livelihoods. Provision of livestock to SFH is a helpful intervention to mitigate this impact. This study provided a total of 150 smallholder poultry farmers, randomly selected from three states (Kebbi, Nasarawa, and Imo) in Nigeria, with ten 5-week-old chickens (mixed sexes) each, of either FUNAAB Alpha or Noiler chicken genetics. The improved, dual-purpose chickens were evaluated for growth performance (GP), survivability and profitability. The birds were managed under semi-scavenging production system. Body weight, mortality, and cost of production (COP) were recorded every 4weeks until 21weeks of age. Profitability was a function of the COP, and the selling price for live-birds (cocks). Body weight of Noiler (1,927g) birds was not significantly (p > .05) higher than FUNAAB Alpha (1,792g) at 21weeks. Agroecology and genetics had significant (p < .05) effects on GP and survivability. Survivability of FUNAAB Alpha was higher (p < .05) than Noiler, with Nasarawa (81%-96%), having the highest (p < .0001) survival rate compared to Imo (62%-81%), and Kebbi (58%-75%). At 21weeks, the number of cocks and hens differed significantly (p < .05) within the states (Imo: 2.4 ± .2 and 5.4 ± .3; Kebbi: 2.6 ± .2 and 5.5 ± .3; and Nasarawa: 2.9 ± .2 and 5.8 ± .3). Nasarawa (NGN 7,808; USD 19) ranked best for profitability, followed by Kebbi (NGN 6,545; USD 16) and Imo (NGN 5,875; USD 14). Overall, this study demonstrates that provision of improved chickens to vulnerable SFH in Nigeria holds great potential for economic growth, and resilience during emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

A systems approach to evaluate nitrogen utilization efficiency and environmental impacts of swine growing-finishing feeding programs in U.S. pork production systems.

Traditionally, swine diets have been formulated to meet nutrient requirements at the lowest cost with little regard toward minimizing environmental impacts. The overall objective of this study was to evaluate the relative differences among four grower-finisher feeding programs, using precision diet formulation practices, on growth performance, carcass composition, nitrogen utilization efficiency, and environmental impacts. In Exp. 1, four 4-phase growing-finishing feeding programs consisting of diets containing corn and soybean meal (CSBM), low protein CSBM supplemented with crystalline amino acids (LP), CSBM with 30% distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), and DDGS supplemented with crystalline Ile, Val, and Trp (DDGS+IVT) were fed to 288 mixed sex pigs (initial BW = 36.9 ± 4.2kg) for 12-wk to determine effects on growth performance and carcass characteristics. Pigs fed CSBM had greater (P < 0.05) final BW than those fed LP and DDGS, and greater gain efficiency than pigs fed LP. Pigs fed DDGS+IVT tended to have greater (P = 0.06) backfat depth than pigs fed DDGS, and less (P < 0.05) loin muscle area than pigs fed CSBM. In Exp. 2, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) balance of barrows (n = 32; initial BW = 59.9 ± 5.1kg) fed each of the phase-2 diets from Exp. 1 was determined in a 12-d metabolism study (7-d adaptation and 5-d collection). Pigs fed CSBM had a greater (P < 0.05) amount of N retained than pigs fed other diets, but also had a greater (P < 0.05) amount of urinary N excretion and blood urea N than pigs fed LP and DDGS+IVT diets. Pigs fed LP tended (P = 0.07) to have the greatest N utilization efficiency but the least (P < 0.05) P retained as a percentage of P intake among dietary treatments. Diet composition and data collected from Exp. 1 and 2 were used to calculate life cycle assessment environmental impacts using Opteinics™ software (BASF, Lampertheim, Germany). The CSBM feeding program had the least impact on climate change, marine and freshwater eutrophication, and fossil resource use. The LP feeding program had the least impact on acidification, terrestrial eutrophication, and water use, while the DDGS feeding programs had the least impact on land use. These results indicate that feeding corn-soybean meal diets optimized growth performance and carcass composition while simultaneously reducing impacts on climate change, marine and freshwater eutrophication, and fossil resource use compared with the other feeding programs evaluated.

Linear Models for Predicting Body Weight of Crossbred Chickens

Prediction of body weight with linear body measurements of 531day-old crossbred chickens was determined by stepwise regression analysis for mixed sexes at 4 and 8 weeks and separate sexes at 12, 16 and 20 weeks. Shank length was the best single predictor of body weight in Isa Brown x naked neck (IBxNa) at 4 weeks (coefficient of determination, R2 = 65%) and in feathered x Isa Brown (FxIB) at 8 weeks (R2 = 96%). In males, body weight was best predicted by drumstick length (DL) in IBxNa (R2 = 90%) at 12 weeks and in Isa Brown x frizzle feathered (IBxF) at 16 (R2 = 85%) and 20 (R2 = 81%) weeks. The best single predictors of body weight in females were body length (BL) (R2 = 91%), body girth (BG) (R2 = 90%) and body width (BW) (R2 = 90%) in naked neck x Isa Brown (NaxIB) at 12, 16 and 20 weeks, respectively. The best partial predictors of body weight were BG and wing length at 4 weeks (R2 =97%) and BG, BL and keel length (KL) at 8 weeks (R2 =97%) in IBxF; BW and DL (R2 =76%) in normal feathered x Isa Brown (NxIB) males at 16 weeks and BW and DL (R2 =97%) in NxIB females at 20 weeks. The higher R2 values obtained in the models for females made prediction of their body weight more accurate than that of the males. In general, the R2 of mixed sexes ranged from 50-97% and 62-97% at 4 and 8 weeks and for males and females, it ranged from 50-90% and 57-91%; 51-85% and 53-90%; 49-81% and 51-90% at 12, 16 and 20 weeks, respectively. Body weight was best predicted at 8 weeks, and irrespective of genotype, sex and age, the best predictors in single or partial state were BG, BL, KL, BW and DL.

Blood serum contents and fatty acid profiles of meat from different chicken strains in Ethiopia

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the blood serum contents, fatty acid profiles of meat and their correlations. Methodology: A total of 96 mixed sex matured indigenous chicken strains from Abobo (Ab), Gambella Ketema Zuria (GKz), Lare (La), and Itang (It), were used to determine blood serum contents, of which 32 chickens were also used for fatty acid profile investigation. Completely Randomized (CRD) design was used to analyze the data. Blood serum contents and fatty acid profiles of chickens’ meat were determined by Roche/Hitachi cobas c 501 and GC standard procedures, respectively. Results: High-density lipoprotein (HDL), Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), Triglyceride, (TG) and Total cholesterol (TC) were significantly different (p ≥ 0.05) between both sexes. The level of HDL was inversely correlated with LDL, TG, and TC. The male chicken’s strains had significantly lower (p ≥ 0.05) HDL, but higher LDL TG, and TC than female. All investigated saturated fatty acids (SFAs) (Palmitic, Myristic, Decanoic, Pentadecanoic, Margaric, Stearic, and Tetradecylic) were non-significantly different (p ≥ 0.05) between different chicken strains studied. However, there were significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) between both sexes. All investigated polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (arachidonic acid, linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, and phthalic acid) were non-significantly different (p ≥ 0.05) between the different chicken strains studied. However, there were significant differences (p ≥ 0.05) between both sexes of different chicken strains studied. UFA was significantly lower (p ≥ 0.05) in male chicken than female. The mean values of the PUFA/MUFA were non-significantly different (p ≥ 0.05) among different chicken strains and both sexes. Conclusion: Chicken strains have higher contents of blood serum (TC, TG, LDL) and SFA in meat might cause human health problems. Therefore, further investigation and studies are needed in the future.

Evaluation of saturated and unsaturated fat with vitamin A or beta-carotene supplementation in nursery pigs.

One hundred and fifty-two nursery pigs (PIC, Hendersonville, TN) were randomly assigned to mix sex pens and one of six dietary treatments in a 3 × 2 factorial. Diets included no added fat, 3% added choice white grease, or 3% added soy oil with either a supplemented vitamin A (for a total of 11,640 IU vitamin A/kg, Rovimix A 1000, DSM, Parsippany, NJ, US) or beta-carotene (for a total of 8,708 IU vitamin A/kg equivalent, Rovimix β-Carotene 10%, DSM). Pigs were given a 3-d adaptation period upon arrival. Pigs were weighed at the start of the study and at the end of each phase. A blood sample was taken from one pig per pen at the start and end of the study. Tissues were collected from eight pigs at the start of the study and six pigs per treatment at the end of the study. Data were analyzed via the GLIMMIX procedure in SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst., Cary, NC). Pen was the experimental unit, and repeated measures were used for growth performance and blood parameters. There was no fat by supplement interaction (P > 0.05) on body weight (BW), but there was a tendency (P = 0.054) for heavier BWs when soy oil was added to diets. There was no difference (P > 0.05) in average daily feed intake or average daily gain (ADG). There was an improved gain:feed (P = 0.02) when pigs were fed choice white grease over no added fat. There were time differences (P < 0.05) for plasma vitamins A (retinol), D (25 hydroxy vitamin D3), and E (alpha-tocopherol). Vitamin A and D values were higher at the end of the study, whereas vitamin E values were lower at the end of the study. The choice white grease diets had the highest (P < 0.05) plasma vitamins D and E (6.74 ng/mL and 2.87 ppm, respectively). Pigs supplemented with vitamin A had higher (P < 0.05) hepatic vitamin A than pigs supplemented with beta-carotene (19.9 vs. 15.6 ppm, respectively). There were no differences (P < 0.05) between immunoglobulins G and M or mRNA abundance of select genes (retinol binding protein 2, alcohol dehydrogenase class 1, lecithin retinol acyltransferase phosphatidylcholine-retinol O-acyltransferase, and beta-carotene oxygenase 1). In conclusion, fat inclusion level and type, with either vitamin A or beta-carotene supplementation, did not affect the overall nursery pig growth performance. The addition of fat resulted in an increase in ADG and BW. Diets with choice white grease had the highest plasma vitamins D and E, and supplemental vitamin A increased hepatic vitamin A.

Acute Toxicity Studies and Anti-diabetic Activity of Methanolic Root Extract of Kigelia africana (lam.) Benth in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease which results in elevated blood sugar levels. Kigelia africana plant has many medicinal properties due to the presence of numerous secondary metabolites. The aim of this research was to evaluate the acute toxicity profile and anti-hyperglycemic potential of methanol root extract of Kigelia africana on alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Twenty (20) 3-4 weeks old albino rats of mixed sexes with body weight 60-100 g were grouped into five groups (GI - GV) of equal number of rats. Diabetes was induced in the rats of Groups GII -GV, while GI rats were considered as non-diabetic control. GII which is the Diabetic control were received no treatment whereas, GIII were administered orally with 5 mg/kg b.w of standard anti-diabetic drugs Glibenclamide, GIV were orally administered 250 mg/kg b.w of extract and GV were orally administered 500 mg/kg b.w of extract. After 14 days of the treatments, the animals were sacrificed and their serum was analysed for lipid profile, hematological parameters, liver and kidney indices. At the end of the study, the root extract was found to posses’ anti-diabetic potential and due to less toxicity at low dose of about 500 mg/kg, the extract is believed to be safe for consumption at low dosage.&#x0D;

Feeding Broiler Chicks with Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium butyricum, and Enterococcus faecalis Mixture Improves Growth Performance and Regulates Cecal Microbiota.

A total of 300day-old Arbor Acres Plus broiler chicks (mixed sex) was used to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium butyricum, and Enterococcus faecalis mixture (PB) on growth performance, ileal morphology, and cecal microbiota. All birds were randomly assigned into 3 groups based on the initial body weight. There were 5 replicate cages per group and 20 birds per cage. The experimental period was 42days. Dietary treatments were based on a basal diet and supplemented with 0, 0.05, or 0.10% PB. The results indicated that broiler chicks fed with the diet supplemented with graded levels of PB have quadratically improved their body weight gain and feed intake; the highest value was presented in 0.05% PB-containing group. In addition, villus to crypt ratio linearly increased with the concentration of PB increased in the diet. The alpha diversity linearly increased by PB supplementation, and the highest value was presented in 0.10% PB-containing group. In terms of growth performance, the suitable dose of PB used in the diet was 0.05%. However, ternary plot showed that the harmful bacteria, Escherichia-Shigella, was enriched in 0.05% PB-containing group. In brief, we considered that dietary supplementation of graded levels of PB improved growth performance and regulated cecal microbiota in broiler chicks.

Is vigilance a personality trait? Plasticity is key alongside some contextual consistency.

Animals regularly scan their environment for predators and to monitor conspecifics. However, individuals in a group seem to differ in their vigilance linked to age, sex or state with recent links made to personality. The aims of the study were to investigate whether a) individuals differ consistently in their vigilance, b) vigilance is linked to other personality traits and c) other factors affect vigilance in the colour polymorphic Gouldian finch. Birds were tested in same (red-headed or black-headed) or mixed head colour morph same sex pairs in four contexts (novel environment, familiar environment, two changed environments). Vigilance was measured as horizontal head movements. Vigilance showed contextual consistency but no long-term temporal consistency over a year. Head movements were only weakly linked to other personality traits indicative of a risk-reward trade-off with more explorative individuals being less vigilant. Vigilance was highly plastic across situations and affected by group composition. Mixed head colour morph pairs made more head movements, potentially linked to higher social vigilance. Results indicate that vigilance is a highly plastic trait affected by personality rather than a personality trait on its own, which allows adapting vigilance to different situations.

Analysis of the usage of post-exposure prophylaxis and related factors among men who have sex with men

A survey was conduct to analyze the usage situation of post-exposure prophylaxis(PEP) and related factors among men who have sex with men(MSM) in 6 cities of Shandong Province. Total of 2 620 subjects, the use ratio was 2.98% (78/2 620). Compared with age≤24 years,monthly income<5 000 yuan,non-commercial sex, non-DU,non-STD,role for being insert in the anal intercourse,MSM was more likely to use PEP with age≥45 years(OR=3.87, 95%CI:1.12-13.36),monthly income≥5 000 yuan(OR=1.87, 95%CI:1.07-3.28),commercial sex (OR=3.13, 95%CI:1.56-6.28), drug users (DUs) (OR=4.63, 95%CI:2.51-8.52),STD patient (OR=2.35,95%CI:1.05-5.27),the mixed sex role group(OR=2.25,95%CI:1.10-4.62).