Negative Control Treatment Research Articles

Manufacturing Low-Fat Processed Cheese Using Chickpea Proteins as a Fat Substitute and Studying Its Physicochemical, Rheological, and Sensory Quality Characteristics

Background: Manufacturing processed cheese has many advantages compared to natural cheese because the cost of refrigeration is lower during storage and transportation, and maintaining improved quality with minimal changes in the characteristics of the cheese during storage. It is possible to produce cheese with different intensity in flavor, functionality, and characteristics for different applications. Methods: This study was carried out in the laboratories of the College of Food Sciences, department of dairy science and technology at Al-Qasim green university, where full-fat cheddar cheese was mixed with full-fat soft cheese and used in the manufacture of cooked cheese treated with positive control + C, as well as mixing full-fat cheddar cheese with low-fat soft cheese to manufacture low-fat processed cheese, the negative control treatment was treated C-. Full-fat cheddar cheese was mixed with soft, low-fat cheese, with the addition of chickpea proteins as a fat replacers, with addition rates of 1.5, 3, and 4.5%, represented by treatments T3, T2, and T1, respectively. Results: The chemical tests included estimating the percentage of moisture, protein, fat, ash, carbohydrates, and total acidity, in addition to estimating the pH, while the rheological tests included hardness, adhesion, and springiness. A sensory evaluation of processed cheese parameters was also conducted. The results showed that the replacement treatments were characterized by a lower moisture content and protein percentage than the negative control treatment and close to the positive control treatment. The percentages of carbohydrates, ash, and acidity also increased in the replacement treatments, but the percentage of fats and pH decreased.

Optimization of Tissue Culture Medium for Little-leaf Mockorange (Philadelphus microphyllus A. Gray) by Adjusting Cytokinin and Selected Mineral Components

Little-leaf mockorange is a native plant species with desirable characteristics for landscape use. The need to conserve specific genotypes and the difficulty of seed propagation and stem cutting propagation make axillary shoot micropropagation a good option for this species. A series of experiments were completed individually with the goal to improve in vitro propagation protocols by evaluating different types of cytokinins [benzylaminopurine (BA), kinetin (Kin), zeatin (Zea), meta-topolin (MT), and thidiazuron (TDZ)] at 0, 1.1, 2.2, 4.4, or 8.8 µM. Selected minerals (0 to 60 mM or 0 to 45 mM N, 0 to 500 µM or 0 to 100 µM Fe, 0 to 3 mM Ca, 0 to 1.5 mM Mg, or 0 to 1.25 mM P) were also tested separately in the tissue culture medium; the base medium was ½ strength MS in these mineral experiments. At the end of each experiment (8 or 12 weeks), plant growth characteristics including number of axillary shoots, shoot height, and dry weight were determined. Of the six cytokinins tested, Zea produced the largest increase in shoot growth. Supplementation with 1.1 µM Zea resulted in the most shoot dry weight, almost 2.5-fold more than control shoots. Shoots on 0.55, 1.1, or 2.2 µM Zea were at least 64% taller than control shoots. Shoots placed on regular ½ strength MS basal salts, described above, and/or media lacking the nutrient of interest, were used as a positive and negative control treatments. For each separate mineral tested, the best concentration for optimum shoot growth was the concentration of that mineral used in ½ strength MS medium. A medium containing mineral concentrations of 30 mM N, 50 µM Fe, 1.5 mM Ca, 0.75 mM Mg, and 0.625 mM P, and 1.1 µM Zea should be used to produce the optimum in vitro shoot growth of little-leaf mockorange.

Yinchenhao Decoction Protects Against Acute Liver Injury in Mice With Biliary Acute Pancreatitis by Regulating the Gut Microflora-Bile Acids-Liver Axis.

Background and Aims: Acute liver injury (ALI) often follows biliary acute pancreatitis (BAP), but the exact cause and effective treatment are unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the gut microflora-bile acids-liver axis in BAP-ALI in mice and to assess the potential therapeutic effects of Yinchenhao decoction (YCHD), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine formula, on BAP-ALI. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were allocated into three groups: negative control (NC), BAP model, and YCHD treatment groups. The severity of BAP-ALI, intrahepatic bile acid levels, and the gut microbiota were assessed 24 h after BAP-ALI induction in mice. Results: Our findings demonstrated that treatment with YCHD significantly ameliorated the severity of BAP-ALI, as evidenced by the mitigation of hepatic histopathological changes and a reduction in liver serum enzyme levels. Moreover, YCHD alleviated intrahepatic cholestasis and modified the composition of bile acids, as indicated by a notable increase in conjugated bile acids. Additionally, 16S rDNA sequencing analysis of the gut microbiome revealed distinct alterations in the richness and composition of the microbiome in BAP-ALI mice compared to those in control mice. YCHD treatment effectively improved the intestinal flora disorders induced by BAP-ALI. Spearman's correlation analysis revealed a significant association between the distinct compositional characteristics of the intestinal microbiota and the intrahepatic bile acid concentration. Conclusions: These findings imply a potential link between gut microbiota dysbiosis and intrahepatic cholestasis in BAP-ALI mice and suggest that YCHD treatment may confer protection against BAP-ALI via the gut microflora-bile acids-liver axis.

Response of root anatomy and vitamin C content of Brassica juncea L. on biofertilizer application in a saline environment

Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is part of the family Brassicaceae which has an annual-herbaceous habitus and is counted as a popular vegetable commodity in Indonesia so it has a high-demand market. To fulfill the demand market can be done by hydroponic cultivation and biofertilizer application. Application of biofertilizer which contains inoculant microorganisms can support plant growth with increased availability of nutrients in planting medium and neutralized salinity stress effect. Salinity stress is indicated by the high concentration of Na+ and Cl- ions in plants resulting in toxicity and osmotic stress which will inhibit plant growth. This study aimed to determine the effect of various dosages of biofertilizer on plant growth and productivity with plant height, leaf number, cortex thickness, metaxylem diameter, and ascorbic acid levels as parameters. This research used cow urine base biofertilizer containing nitrogen (N), phosphate (P), kalium (K), and calcium (Ca). There are a few treatments: negative control, positive control, biofertilizer treatment 40 mL, 80 mL, and 120 mL dosage, and salinity treatment by applying NaCl 5000 ppm 10 mL/system. As the result showed on 120 mL biofertilizer dosage has the highest mean of plant height and leaves number, and 80 ml biofertilizer dosage treatment has the highest average of cortex thickness and metaxylem diameter, but the various dosage of biofertilizer treatment did not have a significant effect on ascorbic acid levels increase. Growth in plants given biofertilizer is higher than the plant growth that grew in the negative control treatment. It can be concluded that the application of biofertilizer can support the growth of B. juncea L. in the hydroponic system under salinity stress.

Exploring the possibility for neurobehavioural impairment of aqueous ethanolic extracts of leaf/seed of asparagus racemosus, Anogeissus latifolia Roxb, and Phyllanthus niruri growing on ipomoea carnea tree in mice

This study aimed to investigate the liability and extracts of some medicinal plants for some neurobehavioural toxicities in mice. The results indicate, compared to negative control (distilled water) treatment mean values of 4.69±0.95 % locomotory activity reduction, 430.71±16.80 sec. sleep onset and 168.43±10.56 min. duration, 5.00±0.00 balance/motor co-ordination performance, and 54.41±1.99 novel object recognition, treatments with high oral doses of Phyllanthus niruri and Asparagus racemosus (1500 mg/kg each) did not significantly negatively impact these behavioural indices but even enhanced novel object recognition. High oral doses of Anogeissus latifolia Roxb and Ipomoea carnea (750 mg/kg each), and tramadol (133 mg/kg) caused significant (p<0.05) 42.24±2.64, 27.73±2.17, and 36.74±4.44, mean % locomotory activity reductions, 196.86±10.12, 193.88±15.39, and 189.14±18.31 sec. mean sleep onsets and 319.71±18.85, 309.57±20.27, and 356.00±26.01 min. mean sleep durations, 1.67±0.42, 1.30±0.40, 1.833±0.48 mean balance/motor co-ordination performances, and 40.49±5.45, 31.33±5.23, 19.37±3.96 mean novel object recognitions, respectively. Diazepam (2 mg/kg) treatment caused 33.71±2.19 mean % locomotory activity reduction, 1.33±0.49 mean balance/motor co-ordination performance, and 29.91±2.81 mean novel object recognitions. Additionally, most mouse groups exposed to tramadol, Anogeissus latifolia Roxb leaf and Phyllanthus niruri displayed unusual (hallucination-like, predator-like) fearful trepidations when in proximity with the novel objects. The results of this study suggest that extracts of Ipomoea carnea and Asparagus racemosus may not possess sedative, hypnotic, myo-relaxant, or anti-cognitive properties. However, extracts of tramadol, diazepam, Anogeissus latifolia Roxb, and Phyllanthus niruri may exhibit notable sedative, hypnotic, myo-relaxant, and anti-cognitive effects. The results of this study provide support for the historical use of Asparagus racemosus seed and Anogeissus latifolia Roxb leaf extracts in the management of memory impairments and associated neurological conditions.

Auranofin attenuates Schistosoma mansoni egg-induced liver granuloma and fibrosis in mice.

Schistosomiasis is a serious tropical disease. Despite extensive research into the etiology of liver fibrosis, effective therapeutic options remain limited. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of auranofin in treating hepatic granuloma and fibrogenesis produced by Schistosoma (S.) mansoni eggs. Auranofin is a gold complex that contains thioglucose tetraacetate and triethylphosphine. Eighty BALB/c male mice were divided into four groups (n=20/group): negative control (GI), positive control (GII), and early (GIII) and late (GIV) treatment groups with oral auranofin according to beginning of treatment 4th week and 6th week post-infection. Mice were infected subcutaneously in a dose of 60±10 cercariae/mouse. Worm counts, egg loads, and oogram patterns were determined. Biochemical, histological, and immunostaining of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3), and smooth muscle actin (SMA) were assessed. GIII showed a significant decrease in the total S. mansoni worm burden and ova/gram in liver tissue (with reduction percent of 63.07% and 78.26%, respectively). Schistosomal oogram patterns, immature and mature ova, also showed a significant decrease. The reduction in granuloma number and size was 40.63% and 48.66%, respectively, in GIII, whereas in GIV, the reduction percent was 76.63% and 67.08%. In addition, the degree of fibrosis was significantly diminished in both treated groups. GIV showed significant reduction in IL-1β and SMA expression and increase in SIRT3 expression. These findings reveal how auranofin suppresses the development of liver fibrosis. Therefore, it is crucial to take another look at auranofin as a prospective medication for the treatment of S. mansoni egg-induced hepatic granuloma and consequent fibrosis.

Feeding Parents and in ovo Injection Hatching Eggs with Omega-3 Fatty Acid and Sunflower Oil and its Effect on the Physiological Traits of Japanese Quail

It was conducted at the poultry field for the period from 12/20/2021 to 2/14/2022. 540 eggs were distributed to nine experimental and injection treatments (60 eggs per treatment). The experimental treatments for the experiment included the following: T1: negative control (without adding oil). T2: positive control (adding sunflower oil) at a rate of 0.01% to the diet. T3: added 0.01 Omega-3 to the parents diet. T4: The parents were fed omega-3 and the resulting eggs were in ovo injected with omega-3. T5: The parents were fed omega-3 and the resulting eggs were in ovo injected with sunflower oil. T6: The parents were fed with sunflower oil and the resulting eggs were in ovo injected with sunflower oil. T7: The parents were fed with sunflower oil and in ovo injected with Omega-3. T8: The parents were fed free-fed and the resulting eggs in ovo injected with omega-3. T9: The parents were free-fed and the resulting eggs were in ovo injected with sunflower oil. The results of the experiment indicated a significant increase on the number of blood cells (WBC) in the blood of both males and females, with a significant decrease in the concentration of hemoglobin (HGB) compared to the negative and positive control treatments. Feeding Japanese quail parents with in ovo injection of Omega-3 hatching eggs led to a significant increase in the concentration of total protein, albumin and globulin in the blood serum of Japanese quail males. While a significant increase in the concentration of total protein was observed with a significant decrease on the concentration of glucose and cholesterol in the blood serum of Japanese quail females compared to the control treatment.

The Effect of Adding Xylanase Enzyme to Diets of Broilers Containing De-Hulled Sunflower Meal as a Substitute for Soybean Meal on Growth, Gastrointestinal Mass, Biology, and Intestinal Morphology, Blood Serum Biochemical Traits

This study was conducted in the Poultry Research Hall of the Department of Animal Production/College of Agriculture and Forestry/University of Mosul, with the aim of studying the effect of adding xylanase enzyme to broiler rations containing de-hulled sunflower meal instead of soybean meal on digestive mass, biology and morphology of the intestines, and serum biochemicals Traits. It used 360 non-sexed broiler chicks (Ross-308), with an average hatching weight of 41.50 grams. the chicks were randomly distributed in a factorial experiment with two factors (4×2) to eight feeding treatments, with three replicates for each treatment and 15 chicks for each replicate, homogeneous in their weights. And for a period of 42 days of age. The results indicated that the substitution of de-hulled sunflower meal by 33% did not have a significant effect on live body weight, feed consumption, intestinal morphology and biology, and blood serum biochemistry compared with the control treatment. While it was observed that a significant deterioration (P≤0.05) occurred in all of these characteristics when the substitution level was increased to 66 and 100%, these two treatments also caused an increase in the relative weight of the gizzard and small intestine and in the number of pathogenic bacteria (E. coli) compared with the control treatment. The results of the statistical analysis of the interference case showed a significant decrease (p≤ 0.05) for the partial and total substitution treatments (66 and 100% Dh-SFM with or without xylanase enzyme) in the live body weight, with a deterioration in the morphological characteristics of the jejunum segment and an increase in the relative weight of the gizzard. And small intestine compared with the negative and positive control treatments.

Seaweed-Based Dripping Stimulates Root Growth of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus[Haw.] Britton & Rose) Stem Cuttings

Developing a solid root system is essential in dragon fruit propagation not only for securing the succulent stem but also for facilitating the absorption of water and essential minerals from the soil. However, dragon fruit stem cuttings normally develop good root system for about 4-6 months after planting. There are commercially available growth hormones which hasten rooting, but these are relatively expensive. Hence, alternative hormones from natural materials that possess the ability to stimulate rooting are extensively explored. The efficacy of seaweed-based drippings (SD) as potential rooting bio-stimulant for dragon fruit cuttings were evaluated under nursery condition. Branch cuttings (30 cm long) were soaked at 6, 12 and 18 h at the rate of 50 mL, 100 mL and 150 mL SD per liter of water (H2O), with H2O, and ANAA (5 mL/L of H2O) served as positive and negative control treatments, respectively. There were 18 cuttings in each experimental units, replicated thrice and arranged in a 3 × 5 Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Results showed that 12 h soaking initiated more and longer roots and shoots. In addition, it appeared that the application of a solution containing SD at 100 mL/L of H20 resulted in the development of numerous and longer roots and shoots, a larger number of lateral roots, and a greater root-shoot ratio than other treatments. Furthermore, application of SD at 100 mL/L of H20 through dipping for 12 h developed more lateral roots compared to other treatment combinations. In conclusion, it can be inferred that the presence of phytohormones, such as auxins, in seaweed concentrates has the potential to effectively stimulate root formation in pitaya.

Effects Of Psidium Guajava Crude Leaf Methanol-Extract On Lowering Blood Sugar Levels In Rat

Blood sugar levels, or blood glucose levels, are crucial for overall health and are regulated by the pancreas through insulin. Normal blood sugar levels range between 70-99 mg/dL when fasting and up to 140 mg/dL two hours after eating. Abnormal blood sugar levels can suggest a variety of health issues, including hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels caused by excess insulin, certain drugs, or illnesses such as diabetes) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes). Regular blood sugar monitoring is necessary, especially for diabetics. Guava, a tropical fruit, includes a variety of phytochemicals that have been linked to pharmacological benefits such as antibacterial capabilities. This research uses an extraction process involving solid-liquid extraction or maceration, with methanol being the optimal solvent. The extract yields 9.51%. Wistar rats are used to investigate its antidiabetic efficacy. The rats are divided into three groups: positive control, negative control, and extract treatment. Diabetes is induced by subcutaneous injection of Alloxan, followed by oral administration of the methanol extract. Blood glucose levels are assessed after fasting for 6-8 hours. The extract from dried Guava leaf powder yields a concentrated extract with a 9.51% yield. In vivo assessments showed a significant reduction in blood glucose levels in rats treated with guava leaf extract, suggesting potential anti-hyperglycemic effects. The phenolic compounds in guava leaves contribute to antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic effects. The study highlights the potential therapeutic effects of guava mint leaves and their extract components for diabetes management and antioxidant health benefits.

ECM1 promotes migration and invasion in endometriosis

Extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) is a glycoprotein that may be a key player in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. However, knowledge regarding the role of ECM1 in endometriosis (EM) is still lacking. Microarray analyses were performed to compare the mRNA expression patterns between paired EU tissues and ectopic endometrial (EC) tissues (n = 4) from EM patients. ECM1 expression was significantly increased in the eutopic endometrial (EU) tissues than paired EC tissues of endometriotic patients and normal endometrial (NE) tissues of controls without EM. Blocking ECM1 with siRNA attenuated the migration and invasion of hEM15A cells and modified the distribution of the F-actin cytoskeleton. We conducted microarray analyses and bioinformatics analyses to investigate the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and related pathways regulated by ECM1. A total of 161 DEGs between the siECM1 and the negative control (siNC) treatments were identified, consisting of 79 downregulated genes and 82 upregulated genes. Enriched DEGs were associated with 9 gene ontology (GO) terms. Moreover, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed for the hub genes and modules. Radixin (RDX) was the second most downregulated gene in the siECM1 group compared with the siNC group. ECM1 knockdown significantly decreased the expression of RDX, RhoC, ROCK1, N-cadherin and β-catenin but not ROCK2. ECM1 showed high tissue-specific expression in EU tissues from EM patients, and may contribute to the migration, invasion and reorganization of the F-actin cytoskeleton in eutopic endometrial stromal cells via the RhoC/ROCK1 signaling pathway in EM.

PSXI-23 Effects of Dietary Threonine, Tryptophan, and Glycine Supplementation on Growth Performance and Intestinal Barrier Function in Broiler Chickens Raised Under Multiple Stress Conditions

Abstract The objective of the current study was to compare the effects of dietary threonine, tryptophan, and glycine supplementation on growth performance and intestinal barrier function in broiler chickens raised under multiple stress conditions. All birds were allotted to 1 of 5 treatments with 8 replicates in a completely randomized design. Positive control (PC) treatment was normal condition and other treatments are multiple stress conditions with heat stress and high stocking density. Multiple stress conditions were exposed to a cyclic heat stress condition (30 ± 0.3°C for 10 h/d and 23 ± 0.2°C for 14 h/d). In addition, 10 birds per cage (16.9 birds/m2) were allotted in multiple stress conditions, but 15 birds per cage (25.3 birds/m2) were allotted in normal conditions. Basal diet was fed to broiler chickens in PC (normal condition) and negative control (NC; multiple stress conditions) treatments. Three additional diets were prepared by adding 0.68% threonine (99%), 0.19% tryptophan (99%), or 1.60% glycine (99%) to the basal diet. Four treatment diets such as NC, threonine, tryptophan, and glycine treatments were provided to birds in multiple stress conditions. All experimental diets and water were provided ad libitum for 14 d. The body weight gain (BWG) and feed intake (FI) were recorded at the end of the experiment. The feed efficiency (FE, g/kg) was calculated by dividing BWG with FI after mortality correction for FI. The intestinal barrier function was analyzed by trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) value in a two-channel Ussing chamber system. Statistical analysis was conducted as a completely randomized design by using the PROC MIXED procedure of SAS (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). The replicate was considered an experimental unit. Outlier data were confirmed by the UNIVARIATE procedure of SAS. The LSMEANS procedure was conducted to calculate treatment means. In addition, if the difference was significant, the PDIFF option of SAS was conducted to separate the means. The significance for statistical tests was considered at P < 0.05. Results indicated that all treatments under multiple stress condition (i.e., NC, Thr, Trp, and Gly treatments) caused a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in BW, BWG, FI, and FE as compared with PC treatment (Table 1). Dietary Thr supplementation under multiple stress conditions was similar FE compared with PC treatment (Table 2). Dietary threonine, tryptophan, and glycine supplementation under multiple stress condition induced intermediated values for TEER with dietary threonine supplementation having similar values to PC treatment. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of threonine seems the most effective functional amino acid. In addition, it can be a novel dietary treatment to improve growth performance and gut health in broiler chickens raised under multiple stress condition.

The Effect of Substituting De-Hulled Sunflower Meal Instead of Soybean Meal with or Without Adding Xylanase Enzyme to the Ration on Productive Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chicks

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of replacing de-hulled sunflower meal (Dh-SFM) with soybean meal (SBM) by (0, 33, 66 and 100)% as a protein source in diets with or without the addition of xylanase on productive performance and some Characteristics of broiler carcasses. Where he used (360) unsexed broiler chicks (Ross-308), distributed randomly in a two-factor experiment (4×2) into eight treatments, in each treatment three replications, with (15) chicks for each replicate, homogeneous in weights. and for a period lasted (42) days. The results showed that the replacement of de-hulled sunflower meal by (33%) did not significantly affect the live body weight, feed consumption, feed conversion factor and the percentage of dressing compared with the control treatment. While a significant deterioration (P≤0.05) was observed in all of these traits when the substitution level was increased to 66 and 100%. The results also showed that the partial substitution treatment (33% Dh-SFM with xylanase enzyme) did not differ significantly from the negative and positive control treatments in live body weight, weight gains, feed conversion factor, and the relative weight of the gizzard. While a significant decrease (P≤0.05) was observed for the partial and total substitution treatments (66 and 100% Dh-SFM with or without xylanase enzyme) in live body weight, feed consumption, feed conversion factor, and carcass characteristics, with an increase in relative weight compared with the control treatment.

Ozone use in the treatment of subclinical mastitis in dairy cows.

This research communication paper addresses the hypothesis that the use of therapeutic alternatives for mastitis, such as intramammary ozone, can cure the disease with lower costs and without harmful residues for human consumption and without formation of microbial resistance like the ones caused by indiscriminate use of antibiotics in dairy farms. The study was performed in 36 mammary quarters from 12 dairy cows with subclinical mastitis grade three. The experimental units were randomly assigned into four groups and each group received a treatment. Treatments comprised (a) 20 μg/ml ozone gas; (b) 40 μg/ml ozone gas; (c) negative control treatment of 12.5 μg/ml ozonated saline and (d) positive control treatment of 100 mg of cephalexin + 100 mg of neomycin + 10 mg of prednisolone, all by intramammary injection. In all quarters, milk was collected before and after the application of treatments for California mastitis test and evaluation of milk composition, somatic cell count, and bacterial cultures. The results indicated that the use of intramammary ozone did have a therapeutic effect, and whilst this was less than that of antibiotics, ozone does confer some advantages. Treated milk had a good composition, the treatment cost was low, milk withdrawal may not be necessary and there is no risk of antibiotic resistance.

Evaluation of the Neurobehavioural Toxicity Potential of Aqueous Ethanol Extracts of Leaf/Seed of Datura metel, Mucuna pruriens, and Tapinanthus globiferus Growing on Azadirachta indica Host Tree in Mice

Aqueous ethanol extracts of Mucuna pruriens seed (AEMPS), Datura metel leaf (AEDML) and seed (AEDMS), and Tapinanthus globiferus (AETGL) Growing on Azadirachta indica host tree are being evaluated for their anxiolytic, antidepressant, anti-parkinsonian, and addictive activities in other studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the liability or otherwise of extracts of the selected medicinal plants for some benzodiazepines-related neurobehavioural toxicities in mice. Actophotometry was used for the evaluation of the locomotory activity related to central nervous system depressant (cns) effect, diazepam-induced sleep potentiation for hypnotic liability, rodent beam (rod)-walking assay for balance and motor co-ordination, and novel object recognition test (NORT) for cognitive deficit evaluation. The results indicate, compared to negative control (distilled water) treatment mean values of 4.69±0.95 % locomotory activity reduction, 430.71±16.80 sec. sleep onset and 168.43±10.56 min. duration, 5.00±0.00 balance/motor co-ordination performance, and 54.41±1.99 novel object recognition, treatments with high oral doses of AETGL and AEMPS (1500 mg/kg each) did not significantly negatively impact these behavioural indices but even enhanced novel object recognition. High oral doses of AEDML and AEDMS (750 mg/kg each), and tramadol (133 mg/kg) caused significant (p<0.05) 42.24±2.64, 27.73±2.17, and 36.74±4.44, mean % locomotory activity reductions, 196.86±10.12, 193.88±15.39, and 189.14±18.31 second mean sleep onsets and 319.71±18.85, 309.57±20.27, and 356.00±26.01 minute mean sleep durations, 1.67±0.42, 1.30±0.40, 1.833±0.48 mean balance/motor co-ordination performances, and 40.49±5.45, 31.33±5.23, 19.37±3.96 mean novel object recognitions, respectively. Diazepam (2 mg/kg) treatment caused 33.71±2.19 mean % locomotory activity reduction, 1.33±0.49 mean balance/motor co-ordination performance, and 29.91±2.81 mean novel object recognitions. Additionally, most mouse groups exposed to tramadol, AEDML, and AEDMS extracts displayed unusual (hallucination-like, predator-like) fearful trepidations when in proximity with the novel objects. These findings indicate AETGL and AEMPS extracts may be devoid of neurobehavioural toxicities but tramadol, diazepam, AEDML and AEDMS extracts may be liable to significant sedative, hypnotic, myo-relaxant, and anti-cognitive effects. These findings justify the traditional uses of Tapinanthus species and Mucuna pruriens extracts for the treatment of memory deficits and related neurological disorders. They also justify the morbid and fatal toxicity risks associated with the use of Datura metel extracts, tramadol, and the benzodiazepines.

Improving chemical, rheological and sensory properties of commercial low-fat cream by concentrate addition of whey proteins

The present study was conducted to determine the effect of whey protein concentrate (WPC) addition on the commercial low-fat cream's chemical, rheological and sensory properties. WPC was added to the low-fat cream (10% fat) in ratios of 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0% to represent the treatments C1, C2, and C3, respectively.In addition, a fat-rich, positive control treatment (C +) with a fat percentage of 30% and a negative low-fat control treatment (C-) with a fat percentage of 10% were investigated without adding WPC. Chemical tests were carried out, including the percentage of moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrates, total acidity, and pH, as well as rheological tests that included; hardness, springiness, and Cohesiveness. Also, a sensory evaluation was conducted. The results showed a decrease in the moisture percentage of the added treatments with the increment of the added WPC quantity. Also, a decrease in the fat percentage and pH of the WPC addition treatments was observed, combined with an increment in the percentage of protein, carbohydrates, ash, and total acidity. Regarding the microbiological properties, no bacterial or mycological contamination was observed during the manufacturing and storage periods. The results also showed the improvement of rheological and sensory characteristics by increasing the percentage of WPC addition compared with the positive and negative control treatments. The present study would be helpful in the production of low-fat cream fortified with whey proteins with high nutritional value.

Effect of dietary betaine supplementation on the liver transcriptome profile in broiler chickens under heat stress conditions.

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of dietary betaine (BT) supplementation on the hepatic transcriptome profiles in broiler chickens raised under heat stress (HS) conditions. A total of 180 (21-d-old) Ross 308 male broiler chicks were allotted to 1 of 3 treatment groups with 6 replicated cages in a completely randomized design. One group was kept under thermoneutral conditions at all times and was fed a basal diet (PC). Other 2 groups were exposed to a cyclic heat stress condition. One of the 2 groups under heat stress conditions was fed the basal diet as a negative control (NC), whereas the other group was fed the basal diet supplemented with 0.2% BT. All chickens were provided with diets and water ad libitum for 21 d. Following the experiment, the liver samples were collected for RNA sequencing analysis. Broiler chickens in NC and BT group had decreased (p<0.05) growth performance. In the transcriptome analysis, the number of differentially expressed genes were identified in the liver by HS conditions and dietary BT supplementation. In the comparison between NC and PC treatments, genes related to energy and nucleic acid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and immune system were altered by HS, which support the reason why heat-stressed poultry had decreased growth performance. In the comparison between NC and BT treatments, genes related to lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and immune system were differently expressed under HS conditions. HS negatively impacts various physiological processes, including DNA replication, metabolism of amino acids, lipids, and carbohydrates, and cell cycle progression in broiler chickens. Dietary BT supplementation, however, offers potential counteractive effects by modulating liver function, facilitating gluconeogenesis, and enhancing immune systems. These findings provide a basis for understanding molecular responses by HS and the possible benefits of dietary BT supplementation in broiler chickens exposed to HS.

TNFR2 promotes pancreatic cancer proliferation, migration, and invasion via the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive malignant disease with low overall survival; chemotherapy and immunotherapy have limited efficacy. Tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2), a type II transmembrane protein, contributes to the development and progression of several tumors. In this study, we elucidated the effect and molecular mechanisms of TNFR2. We used The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Genotype-Tissue Expression database to compare the expression of the TNFR2 gene between normal and malignant pancreatic tissue. Using immunohistochemical staining, we divided the patients into high and low-expression groups, then investigated clinicopathologic data and survival curves of pancreatic cancer patients. We measured TNFR2 protein expression in PANC-1 and ASPC-1 pancreatic cancer cells subjected to TNFR2 small interfering RNA or negative control treatment. We performed proliferation, invasion, and migration assays to study the biological effects of TNFR2 in PDAC. The molecular mechanisms were validated using western blotting. TNFR2 was more highly expressed in PDAC cells and tissues than controls. Abundant expression of TNFR2 was associated with aggressive clinicopathologic characteristics and poor outcomes. Overexpression of TNFR2 promoted PDAC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. Mechanistically, TNFR2 binds to TNF-α and activates the NF-κB signaling pathway. TNFR2 is a prognostic marker that facilitates the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PDAC via the NF-κB signaling pathway. TNFR2 may become a therapeutic target.

Development of a spore-based mucosal vaccine against the bovine respiratory pathogen Mannheimia haemolytica

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a significant health issue in the North American feedlot industry, causing substantial financial losses due to morbidity and mortality. A lack of effective vaccines against BRD pathogens has resulted in antibiotics primarily being used for BRD prevention. The aim of this study was to develop a mucosal vaccine against the BRD pathogen, Mannheimia haemolytica, using Bacillus subtilis spores as an adjuvant. A chimeric protein (MhCP) containing a tandem repeat of neutralizing epitopes from M. haemolytica leukotoxin A (NLKT) and outer membrane protein PlpE was expressed to produce antigen for adsorption to B. subtilis spores. Adsorption was optimized by comparing varying amounts of antigen and spores, as well as different buffer pH and reaction temperatures. Using the optimal adsorption parameters, spore-bound antigen (Spore-MhCP) was prepared and administered to mice via two mucosal routes (intranasal and intragastric), while intramuscular administration of free MhCP and unvaccinated mice were used as positive and negative control treatments, respectively. Intramuscular administration of MhCP elicited the strongest serum IgG response. However, intranasal immunization of Spore-MhCP generated the best secretory IgA-specific response against both PlpE and NLKT in all samples evaluated (bronchoalveolar lavage, saliva, and feces). Since proliferation of M. haemolytica in the respiratory tract is a prerequisite to lung infection, this spore-based vaccine may offer protection in cattle by limiting colonization and subsequent infection, and Spore-MhCP warrants further evaluation in cattle as a mucosal vaccine against M. haemolytica.

Effect of mannan-rich fractions and a mixture of sodium butyrate and zinc proteinate on performance, intestinal morphometry, and gene expression in broilers

This study evaluated the effects of isolated or combined prebiotics blended with sodium butyrate and zinc proteinate on performance, intestinal morphometry, and expression of genes associated with nutrient transport and immune response in broilers. 1,400 birds were randomly assigned to 5 treatments (Negative control (NC) without antibiotic; Positive control (PC) with antibiotic; Prebiotic (Prebio) composed of mannan fractions; Blend, composed of sodium butyrate, hydrolysed yeast cell wall and zinc proteinate; and the combination Prebio + Blend), with eight replications and 35 birds per experimental unit. The PC led to higher weight gain (WG) and lowered feed conversion (FCR) from 1 to 7 days of life than the other treatments. The use of prebio and blend resulted in high WG from 22 to 42 days (1773; 1768.9 g, respectively). However, the combination of prebio + blend was similar to PC and NC treatments. The additives resulted in longer duodenal villi when administered alone and in ileal villi (p = 0.001) combined, with no effect on jejunal villi. Crypt depth and duodenal villus: crypt ratio was higher for both additives types. A significant difference among treatments in the expression of the sodium-dependent glucose transporter gene (SGLT1) was noted, with greater expression in birds that received NC. There was higher expression of the neutral and cationic amino acid transporter gene (y + LAT-2) with the prebio and blend, either alone or in combination. The prebio blend with sodium butyrate and zinc proteinate additives used separately in broiler diets supported beneficial changes in intestinal morphometry, nutrient absorption, and performance, indicating their value in antibiotic-free broiler production systems.