Feeding Period Research Articles

Effects of Subacute Ammonia Nitrogen Stress on the Growth, Antioxidant Capability, and Immunity of Blunt Snout Bream (Megalobrama amblycephala) Juveniles

To investigate the effects of subacute ammonia nitrogen stress on the growth, antioxidant capacity, and innate immunity of juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama ambrycyphala), a sample of fish (average body weight 6.55 ± 0.24 g) was divided into three groups: a control group (G1), a 10% LC50 ammonia nitrogen stress group (G2), and a 20% LC50 ammonia nitrogen stress group (G3). The fish in G1 were reared in tap water with aeration. The fish in G2 were reared in water with 6.82 mg/L ammonium chloride at 10% LC50. The fish in G3 were reared in water with 13.64 mg/L ammonium chloride at 20% LC50. The feeding period was 4 weeks. Then, the growth, antioxidant, and immune response parameters of the fish were analyzed. The results showed that the median lethal concentration (LC50) of the ammonia nitrogen solution for blunt snout bream juveniles at 96 h was 68.18 mg/L. The final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate (SGR), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), albumin, globulin, acid phosphatase (ACP), and alkaline phosphatase (AKP) of fish in the stress groups were significantly lower than in the control group (p < 0.05); however, the MDA content of fish in the control group was significantly lower than that of those in the stress groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the relative expression levels of the GHRa, GHRb, IGF1, and IGF2 genes in the muscles of fish in the stress groups were significantly downregulated compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The relative expression levels of the SOD, CAT, Leap1, and Leap2 genes in the liver of fish in the stress groups were significantly lower than those in fish in the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, subacute ammonia nitrogen stress inhibited growth performance and decreased the antioxidant capacity and immunity of blunt snout bream.

Effect of milk thistle (Silybum marianum L.) oil on pro-inflammatory cytokines, acute phase proteins, rumen metagenomic profile, rumen fluid variables and performance in calves.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of milk thistle (Silybum marianumL., SM) oil supplementation on proinflammatory cytokines, acute phase proteins, rumen metagenomic profile, rumen fluid variables and performance during the milk feeding period of Holstein calves. In the present study, 24 calves that consumed quality and sufficient amount of colostrum (≥50 mg/ml IgG) after birth were divided into three groups, with 8 animals in each group (4 males + 4 females). Individually fed calves were given added SM oil as 0 µL/day/calf (Control group, SM0), 100 µL/day/calf (SM100) and 200 µL/day/calf (SM200). The ration containing concentrated feed mix (90%) + wheat straw (10%) was offered to the calves. SM oil did not change the ammonia nitrogen and pH values of the rumen fluid of calf (P>0.05). The molarities of PA, IBA, IVA and BSCFA in the rumen fluid increased linearly with SM oil dose (P<0.05). The relative abundance of Firmicutes linearly increased and the relative abundance of Actinobacteriota decreased with the addition of SM oil (P<0.05). Relative abundances of Erysipelotrichaceae_UCG_002, Eubacterium_coprostanoligenes_group, Clostridia_UCG_014, Lachnospiraceae_Unknown_1, Lachnospiraceae_NK3A20_group, Shuttleworthia, Selenomonadaceae_Uncultured_1, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group and Succinivibrionaceae_UCG_001 linearly increased with SM oil (P<0.05). Relative abundances of Methanobrevibacter, Acetitomaculum, Olsenella and Megasphaera in calf rumen fluid linearly decreased with SM oil (P<0.05). Concentrations of TNF-α, IFN-ɣ, and SAA of calf' serum at weaning stage linearly decreased with SM oil doses (P<0.05). Serum IgA concentration increased with 100 µL SM oil /day (P<0.05). As a result, the addition of SM oil to calves has the potential to reduce the immune suppression of calves during the milk feeding period and at weaning time, has a positive effect on the microbiome involved in starch and protein catabolism in the rumen fluid, and increases the fermentation end products (PA, IVA and BA). Milk thistle oil has an inhibitory effect on methanogenic archaea and can be used as an anti-methanogenic feed additive and will contribute to the effective use of feed energy.

Comparative analysis of the plasma metabolome of migrating passerines: novel insights into stopover metabolism

During long‐distance migration, many birds experience periods of either prolonged fasting (during endurance flights) or extensive feeding (during stopovers). Despite decades of research on avian metabolism during migration, many questions have remained unanswered, as such research mainly focused on targeted metabolites and fat metabolism. Here, we examined the plasma‐metabolome of two migrating passerine species before they crossed the Sahara Desert. Birds were sampled at two sites populated by Pistacia trees bearing fat‐rich fruits and at an additional site dominated by blooming Eucalyptus trees. The blood samples were analyzed using both GC‐MS and LC‐MS, using an untargeted approach. Examination of metabolic pathways activated during stopovers indicated a crucial role for cycling glucose through the Cori and Cahill cycles in resting and recovery processes. This novel perspective, conducted on free‐ranging birds, suggests the evolution of avian insulin resistance due to factors such as endurance exercise, fasting, and a preference for fatty acid oxidation during migration, akin to cell trauma recovery. We detected significant inter‐site variations in birds' polar and lipophilic metabolic profiles. We interpret the differences in the polar metabolites to be associated with the physiological state of the birds, with birds that are considered to have landed during the night prior to capture showing different metabolic profiles compared to birds that have spent more time at the stopover site. In contrast, distinctions in the lipophilic profiles of birds were associated with variations in the primary food source that was available to them in the different sites. This study underscores the challenge of interpreting commonly used indicators for assessing migrating birds' physiological state, which was predominantly derived from lipid metabolism in complex ecological systems.

Hydrobiological and Geochemical Responses to Trout Cage Aquaculture in Lake Ecosystem

This study investigates the seasonal dynamics and interrelationships between geochemical and hydrobiological parameters in lake ecosystems impacted by fish cage farming in Lake Ladoga, Russia. Environmental conditions at three trout farms were assessed, focusing on water and sediment quality as well as benthic and zooplankton communities. For each farm, two categories of sampling sites were designated: cage sites and reference sites located 100–600 m away from the cages. Fieldwork was carried out across four seasons in 2023: February, June, August, and November. The findings indicate that intensive fish feeding results in significant organic waste accumulation beneath trout cages, altering the composition and abundance of planktonic and benthic organisms. The organic matter content in sediments beneath the cages during periods of intensive feeding was found to increase 2–5 times compared to the reference sites. In winter, accumulated organic matter in the sediments underwent mineralization, bringing hydrobiological indicators closer to the reference values. The geochemical and hydrobiological parameters analyzed in this study serve as valuable indicators for developing ecological monitoring approaches in freshwater cage aquaculture.

Finerenone attenuates downregulation of the kidney GLP-1 receptor and glucagon receptor and cardiac GIP receptor in mice with comorbid diabetes

BackgroundSeveral new treatments have recently been shown to have heart and kidney protective benefits in people with diabetes. Because these treatments were developed in parallel, it is unclear how the different molecular pathways affected by the therapies may overlap. Here, we examined the effects of the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone in mice with comorbid diabetes, focusing on the regulation of expression of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R), gastric inhibitory polypeptide receptor (GIPR) and glucagon receptor (GCGR), which are targets of approved or investigational therapies in diabetes.MethodsMale C57BL/6J mice were fed a high fat diet for 26 weeks. Twelve weeks into the high fat diet feeding period, mice received an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin before being followed for the remaining 14 weeks (DMHFD mice). After 26 weeks, mice were fed a high fat diet containing finerenone (100 mg/kg diet) or high fat diet alone for a further 2 weeks. Cell culture experiments were performed in primary vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), NRK-49 F fibroblasts, HK-2 cells, and MDCK cells.ResultsDMHFD mice developed albuminuria, glomerular mesangial expansion, and diastolic dysfunction (decreased E/A ratio). Glp1r and Gcgr were predominantly expressed in arteriolar VSMCs and distal nephron structures of mouse kidneys respectively, whereas Gipr was the predominant of the three transcripts in mouse hearts. Kidney Glp1r and Gcgr and cardiac Gipr mRNA levels were reduced in DMHFD mice and this reduction was negated or attenuated with finerenone. Mechanistically, finerenone attenuated upregulation of the profibrotic growth factor Ccn2 in DMHFD kidneys, whereas recombinant CCN2 downregulated Glp1r and Gcgr in VSMCs and MDCK cells respectively.ConclusionsThrough its anti-fibrotic actions, finerenone reverses Glp1r and Gcgr downregulation in the diabetic kidney. Both finerenone and GLP-1R agonists have proven cardiorenal benefits, whereas receptor co-agonists are approved or under development. The current findings provide preclinical rationale for the combined use of finerenone with the GLP-1R agonist family. They also provide mechanism of action insights into the potential benefit of finerenone in people with diabetes for whom GLP-1R agonists or co-agonists may not be indicated.

Nutrient Enhancing and Flesh Quality Improvement in Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) Fed Dietary Sweet Potato (Ipomoa butatas) Leaves Aqueous Extract

Dietary sweet potato (I. batatas) leaves extract was assessed for nutrient enhancing ability and improvement of flesh quality in catfish (C. gariepinus). Thirty five (35) % crude protein feed was formulated using locally available ingredients. Four different diets were prepared from the formulated feed by adding varying quantities of sweet potato leaves extracts as follows: Oml/kg; 50ml/kg; 100ml/kg; and 150ml/kg and labeled as Do, D1, D2 and D3 respectively. One hundred and twenty (120) sub-adult C. gariepinus were used for the experiment, they were divided into four groups in triplicates of 10. Feeding with the experimental diets (Do-D3) commenced after two weeks of acclimatization and they were fed for eight (8) weeks, and water quality parameters such as temperature, dissolve oxygen and pH were determined daily, and measurement of length and weight was done fortnightly. After the feeding period fish were collected from each of the groups for proximate composition analysis and organoleptic assessment. The proximate composition of the diets were done to assess the effects of I. batatas on the quality of the diets. The results revealed the following: (i) the diets had no effects on the assessed water quality parameters; (ii) there were no significance difference in the proximate composition of the experimental diets; (iii) the I. batatas leave extracts enhanced the lipids, protein and fibre contents on the flesh of C. gariepinus; (iv) the I. batatas improves texture, taste, appearance and general acceptability of C. gariepinus flesh; (v) nutrient utilization parameters such as protein intake (PI), protein efficiency ratio (PER), protein retention (PR), fat retention (FR) and net protein retention (NPU) increases significantly as the quantity of I. batatas extracts increases in the diet (Do- D3). It was concluded that sweet potato (I. batatas) leaves extracts improves nutrients utilization and flesh quality in C. gariepinus by enhancing bioavailability, digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Bellymount-Pulsed Tracking: A Novel Approach for Real-Time In vivo Imaging of Drosophila Abdominal Tissues.

Quantitative live imaging is a valuable tool that offers insights into cellular dynamics. However, many fundamental biological processes are incompatible with current live imaging modalities. Drosophila oogenesis is a well-studied system that has provided molecular insights into a range of cellular and developmental processes. The length of the oogenesis coupled with the requirement for inputs from multiple tissues has made long-term culture challenging. Here, we have developed Bellymount-Pulsed Tracking (Bellymount-PT), which allows continuous, non-invasive live imaging of Drosophila oogenesis inside the female abdomen for up to 16 hours. Bellymount-PT improves upon the existing Bellymount technique by adding pulsed anesthesia with periods of feeding that support the long-term survival of flies during imaging. Using Bellymount-PT we measure key events of oogenesis including egg chamber growth, yolk uptake, and transfer of specific proteins to the oocyte during nurse cell dumping with high spatiotemporal precision within the abdomen of a live female.

Phyto-prophylactic Potentials of Dietary Ipomoea-batatas Leaves on Clarias gariepinus Exposed to Psedomonas aeruginosa: Biochemical Analysis and Liver Histopathology

Ipomoea batatas aqueous extracts was examined for it's phyto-prohylatic effects on the enzymes, bilirubin, metabolites, electrolytes and liver histopathology of Clarias gariepinus challenged with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. One hundred and fifty (150) C. gariepinus were distributed into five groups in triplicates and fed accordingly with 0ml/kg (DO), 50ml/kg (D1), 100ml/kg (D2) and 150ml/kg (D3) I. batatas supplemented diets. Two groups were fed with 0ml/kg (D0+v and D0-ve). At the end of feeding period, the fish fed D0-ve (negative control) and D1-D3 were infected with 1.5ml of 1.5 × 10¹⁰cfu/ml overnight grown Pseudomonas aeruginosa while the fish fed D0+ve was unfected. After seven (7) days post infection period, blood samples were collected from all groups to determine enzyme activities [Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alanine transaminase (ALT) and (ALP), Bilirubin activities [Total Bilirubin (TB) and Conjugated Bilirubin (CB)], Metabolites activities [Total Protein (TP), Albumine (ALB), Globulin (GLB), Urea (UR) and creatinine (CR)] and Electrolytes activities [Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+), chloride (CL-) and bicarbonate (HCO-3)]. The fish livers were also harvested for histopathological analysis. The results revealed that the highest values of all enzymes and bilirubin activities were recorded in the fish fed D-ve (negative control) when compared to the fish fed D1 to D3 (treated groups) and D+ve (positive control). TB and GLB were lower while UR and CR were higher in the fish fed D-ve when compared to the fish fed D1-D3 and D+ve. ALB values were similar in the fish fed D+ve and D3. Na+ and CL- were significantly lower in the fish fed D-ve and the highest values of Ca2+ and K+ were also recorded in the fish fed D-ve. However, the values of HCO-3 had no significant difference. The histopathological analysis shows that the liver of the fish fed D+ve, D2 and D3 had exact same features suggestive of a cultured fish. However, the liver of the fish fed D-ve and D1 had no vacuoles and there was a mild infiltration by lymphocytes. Sequel to these results, it is evidential that I. batatas possess the potentials of maintaining normal biochemical activities, and safeguard fish liver against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is therefore recommended that aquaculturist should embrace and apply this great discovery to maintain fish health especially in harsh environment.

Abstract 4128491: Dietary N-3 Very-Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Improve Retinal Function And Reduce Aortic Atherosclerosis In ApoE-Deficient Mice

Introduction: N-3 very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLCPUFA; C≥24), which are found primarily in retina and a few other select tissues, are known to play critical roles in specific biological systems. Although n-3 PUFA, such as eicosapentanoic acid (EPA, C20:5 n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6 n-3), may confer cardiovascular benefits, they did not improve age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness worldwide, in clinical trials. The activity of ELOVL fatty acid elongase 2 (ELOVL2), an enzyme that converts EPA into tetracosapentaenoic acid (TPA, C24:5 n-3), is known to decrease in the retina with age due to promoter methylation. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that dietary VLCPUFA may delay or prevent AMD, by bypassing the ELOVL2-mediated lipid elongation step. We also hypothesize that VLCPUFA may benefit cardiometabolic health like shorter-chain n-3 PUFA through similar mechanisms. Aims: We aimed to investigate the effect of dietary VLCPUFA on retinal function and cardiometabolic risk factors in mice. Methods: We have produced a new fish oil that contains ~40% (w/w) of C24-C28-rich VLCPUFA. We fed 9-month-old ApoE -/- mice with normal or VLCPUFA fortified diet (1% or 3% (w/w)) for 8 weeks, and age-matched C57BL/6J mice were used as control. We conducted electroretinography (ERG) and cognitive ability tests at the end of feeding period. In in vitro studies, we performed PPAR reporter assay and investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of TPA in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Results: Supplementation of VLCPUFA showed a significant and dose-dependent improvement in ERG response. Like EPA and DHA, we also observed favorable cardiometabolic changes and decreased atherosclerotic plaque area due to dietary VLCPUFA. Intriguingly, VLCPUFA supplemented aging mice exhibit better cognitive performance compared with control. Transcriptome analysis revealed that VLCPUFA-enriched fish oil favorably regulated genes involved in nuclear receptor signaling pathways, lipid metabolism and inflammation. Furthermore, purified TPA potently activates PPARs, and suppressed inflammation in macrophage cells. Conclusions: Overall, our studies revealed for the first time several potential health benefits for our new VLCPUFA-enriched fish oil in several age-related diseases and support its future development as a new dietary supplement.

Effects of the Dietary Fat Concentration and Fatty Acid Pattern on the Urine Composition, Apparent Nutrient Digestibility, and Selected Blood Values of Healthy Adult Cats.

Background/Objectives: The dietary fat concentration and fatty acid profile can influence various aspects of the feline organism. This study examined their effects on the urine composition, apparent nutrient digestibility, and selected blood variables. Methods: Ten healthy adult cats (46.6 ± 14.1 months old, initial body weight 4.99 ± 0.91 kg) received a low-fat basic diet with or without the addition of sunflower oil, fish oil, or lard in a randomized crossover design. The oil and lard were added to the daily amount of food at 0.5 or 1 g/kg body weight of the cats. At the end of each 3-week feeding period, urine, feces, and fasting blood samples were collected. Results: The results demonstrated only small effects of the dietary fat concentration and source on the urine composition of the cats. In addition, the apparent nutrient digestibility was unaffected by the dietary treatments. The supplementation with fish oil, but not sunflower oil or lard, lowered the triglycerides and increased the total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations in the plasma of the cats (p < 0.05). However, these blood values were within the physiological reference ranges among all groups. Conclusions: It can be concluded that the dietary fat content and fatty acid profile did not adversely affect the urine composition or nutrient digestibility in healthy adult cats. The lipid metabolism of the animals was modulated by the supplementation with fish oil, a relevant source of n-3 fatty acids. The observed triglyceride-lowering effect should be further investigated in clinical studies.

Characterization of Four Carboxylesterases Involved in Detoxification of β-Cypermethrin, λ-Cyhalothrin, and Malathion in Helicoverpa armigera.

Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a globally devastating pest and has evolved with varying levels of resistance to a broader spectrum of insecticides. CarEs are major enzymes involved in insecticide detoxification and metabolic resistance. Four CarE genes were identified and cloned from H. armigera, and the expression pattern analyses indicated that they were predominantly expressed in the detoxifying tissues and larval feeding periods. The insecticide inductive assays further suggested that these CarE genes with expressions were significantly upregulated after beta-cypermethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, malathion, and chlorpyrifos exposures. The purified recombinant proteins of both CarE016B and CarE016C by bacterial expression exhibited significantly higher catalytic efficiency toward α-naphthyl acetate and also showed relatively stronger binding with both β-cypermethrin and λ-cyhalothrin compared to the CarE006C and CarE015A. In vitro metabolism assay with HPLC suggests that CarE016B and CarE016C have the ability to metabolize β-cypermethrin, λ-cyhalothrin, and malathion with varying hydrolase activities. GC-MS/MS analysis identified 3-phenoxybenzaldehyde (3-PBAld) as the metabolite of both β-cypermethrin and λ-cyhalothrin. Homology modeling and molecular docking analyses further indicate that these three types of insecticides could be anchored into the active pocket of both CarEs. Collectively, these results demonstrate that both CarE016B and CarE016C play a critical role in the detoxification of pyrethroid and organophosphate insecticides in H. armigera. This study provides the foundations for a comprehensive understanding of the role of the CarEs family in insecticide detoxification and resistance in H. armigera.

Effect of different tube feeding methods on gastroesophageal reflux features in preterm infants: a pH-impedance monitoring study.

Continuous feeding and boluses may have a different impact on pH-MII GER features in symptomatic tube-fed preterm infants, whereas the permanence of the feeding tube across LES did not seem to worsen GER indexes. • Due to the functional and anatomical immaturity of the gastrointestinal tract, gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is common in preterm infants. • A stepwise therapeutical approach which firstly undertakes conservative strategies is the most advisable choice to avoid potentially harmful pharmacological overtreatments in the preterm population. • Continuous feeding and boluses may have a different impact on GER features assessed by pH-MII monitoring in tube-fed preterm infants. • The permanence of the feeding tube during or after the feeding period did not seem to worsen GER occurrence. • By reducing GER features, especially acid GER, continuous feeding may potentially contribute to limit the need for antiacid medications in this population.

The Onset of Steatosis Occurs as Early as Seven Days and Progresses to Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in a Pediatric Pig Model of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

BackgroundNonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic and progressive condition that afflicts patients of all ages, including neonates. Previously, we reported that neonatal pigs fed formulas rich in medium-chain (MCFA), compared with those fed formulas rich in long-chain fatty acid (LCFA) for 21 d, developed panacinar steatosis with no changes in whole-body obesity. ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to examine the temporal onset and development of NAFLD in neonatal pigs in response to MCFA feeding. MethodsNeonatal pigs (N = 18) were fed isocaloric MCFA or LCFA. Six pigs from each group were killed following 7, 14 or 21 d of feeding. Body composition was assessed before initiation and at the end of the feeding period using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Liver fat content and liver morphologic features were determined from photomicrographs and evaluated for NAFLD by a pathologist. ResultsLean mass and fat mass as a percentage of body weight were not different between formulas. However, liver weight (P = 0.001) and liver fat mass (P < 0.001) were greater for pigs in the MCFA than those for pigs in the LCFA group. Steatosis developed as early as 7 d in the MCFA compared with the LCFA fed pigs (P < 0.001). In addition, steatosis progressed in a portal-to-venous direction as MCFA feeding duration increased (P = 0.02). Pigs diagnosed with NASH (P < 0.001) and greater nonalcoholic fatty liver disease scores were those in the MCFA group (P < 0.001). ConclusionsThese results suggest that the onset and progression of NAFLD from steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis occurs rapidly in response to MCFA feeding. Moreover, periportal steatosis is the initial feature in the development of NAFLD before its progression to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. The development of NAFLD in neonates seems to occur independently of whole-body adiposity.

Late gestation maternal infection with bovine viral diarrhea virus impacts offspring feedlot performance, digestion, blood parameters, and hot carcass weights.

Fetal infection with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) after 150 d results in transient fetal infections (TI). Twenty-five unvaccinated, yearling Hereford heifers, seronegative for antibodies to BVDV1 and BVDV2, were bred by artificial insemination with X chromosome-bearing sperm from one Angus sire to examine the impact of TI on postnatal growth, estimated dry matter digestibility, blood parameters, and carcass characteristics. On d 175 of pregnancy, dams were intranasally inoculated with either sham control or 4.0 log median tissue culture infectious dose noncytopathic type2 BVDV to generate control or TI offspring, respectively. All control dams remained seronegative and all BVDV-inoculated dams seroconverted by d 14 post-inoculation. All control offspring were seronegative and all TI offspring were seropositive for antibodies to type 2 BVDV at birth. All offspring were raised on pasture until weaning. At weaning, all calves were transported to our research feedlot facility, housed in three pens, and transitioned to a high-energy concentrate-based diet. Heifer body weights (BW) and jugular blood samples were collected every 28 d. On d 84 of the feeding period, titanium dioxide was added to the diet of 12, age-paired, individually fed, heifers (6 control and 6 TI heifers; approximately 1 yr. of age) for 28 d and used to estimate dry matter digestibility. On d 105 and 240 ruminal fluid (approximately 900ml) was collected from every animal using a stomach pump and analyzed for short chain fatty acids (SCFA). After approximately 287 d on feed, heifers were transported to a USDA-inspected abattoir and harvested. TI heifers had lighter final BW (P < 0.04) when compared to control heifers. Average daily gain was greater (P < 0.01) in control compared to TI heifers. TI heifers had a 2.2% lesser (P < 0.05) apparent dry matter digestibility, lighter (P < 0.01) hot carcass weights, but similar ruminal SCFA compared to controls. Blood glucose concentrations were similar (P > 0.8) between control and TI heifers. Ceruloplasmin activity (P < 0.03) and the oxidized form of glutathione (GSSG; P < 0.01), indicators of chronic inflammation, were increased in plasma from TI heifers compared to controls. Other indicators of oxidative stress were not impacted (P > 0.10) by TI status. These data suggest that fetal BVDV transient infection negatively impacts growth throughout the feeding period, possibly by impacting gastrointestinal tract function and increasing systemic inflammation.

Around the clock: unveiling giraffe rest-activity rhythms and social dynamics

Understanding the daily activity patterns and social dynamics of giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) is crucial for their management and conservation. In this study, a comprehensive 24-hour observational analysis of three female reticulated giraffes kept for three weeks at the Opel-Zoo in Kronberg, Germany, was conducted. Using infrared-sensitive cameras, the study captured behavioral data across baseline and two intervention phases involving changes in group composition. Social network analysis was performed using the Mantel test to assess changes in social interactions between day and night and across different study periods, while the MRQAP was applied to evaluate the influence of individual subtypes on the social structure. During the day, the giraffes exhibited a high level of activity, primarily engaging in walking, standing, and feeding behaviors. Diurnal resting was minimal, with sporadic lying phases. Night-time behavior was markedly different, with the giraffes spending most of the night lying down, interspersed with periods of feeding. The presence of a male giraffe during one intervention phase significantly altered diurnal activity patterns, increasing standing behaviors and decreasing feeding time. Social interactions, including nearest neighbor preferences, varied across day and night periods and changed with alterations in group composition. The study highlights the complexity of giraffe social dynamics and their adaptation to different social contexts. These findings provide valuable insights into the natural behavioral rhythms and social behaviors of giraffes, which are essential for effective zoo management and conservation strategies.

Alleviating effects of Gracilaria verrucosa supplement on non-specific immunity, antioxidant capacity and immune-related genes of pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) provoked with white spot syndrome virus

Our work evaluated the possible underlying roles of dietary dried seaweed (Gracilaria verrucosa; GV) on the inherent immune response, antioxidant capacity, immune-related gene expression, and protection of whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) contra white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). Three hundred and sixty healthy L. vannamei (15.26 g ± 1.29 g) were graded into four supplemental groups ( Triplicate/group) and fed with diets including 0 (control), 2, 4, and 8 g GV (kg diet) −1 for 21 days. Following the feeding period, each group of shrimp received an intramuscular WSSV injection (1.4 × 106 copies/ml). Hemolymph and gills samples were collected before and after the challenge with WSSV. Notably, the administration of dietary GV significantly enhanced the innate immune parameters of pacific white shrimp including total hemocyte count (THC), phagocytosis, phenoloxidase activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and lysozyme activity before and after challenge with WSSV. Additionally, dietary supplementation of 4, and 8 g of GV (kg diet)−1 remarkably elevated ACP, AKP, SOD, GPx, and catalase activities along with a decrease in the MDA level in gills of shrimp before and post-WSSV challenge. In response to the GV supplement, significant upregulation of expression of ALF1, CRU1, PEN4, and CTL with downregulation of TRAF6, STAT, TLR1, and NOS genes was recorded in the gills tissue before and post-challenge with WSSV, especially at a dose of 8.0 GV g kg − 1. Dietary inoculated shrimp with GV revealed notably higher survival percentages after being challenged with WSSV. Conclusively, these data indicate that Gracilaria verrucosa can be recommended as a valuable supplemented seaweed to stimulate the innate immunity and enhance the health of Litopenaeus vannamei against viral infection.

Exploring the longitudinal expression dynamics of midguts in adult female Amblyomma americanum ticks

BackgroundFemale ticks remain attached to their host for multiple days to complete a blood meal. This prolonged feeding period is accompanied by a significant increase in the tick’s size and body weight, paralleled by noteworthy changes to the tick midgut. While the midgut is recognized for its established role in blood storage and processing, its importance extends to playing a crucial role in the acquisition, survival, and proliferation of pathogens. Despite this, our overall understanding of tick midgut biology is limited.ResultsOur transcriptome analysis identified 15,599 putative DNA coding sequences (CDS), which were classified into 26 functional groups. Dimensional and differential expression analyses revealed four primary transcriptional profiles corresponding to unfed, slow-feeding, transitory (from slow- to rapid-feeding), and rapid-feeding stages. Additionally, comparing the current dataset with previously deposited transcriptome from other tick species allowed the identification of commonly expressed transcripts across different feeding stages.ConclusionOur findings provide a detailed temporal resolution of numerous metabolic pathways in the midgut of A. americanum adult females throughout the feeding process, highlighting the dynamic transcriptional regulation of the tick’s midgut as feeding progresses. Furthermore, we identified conserved transcripts across three different tick species that exhibit similar expression patterns. This knowledge not only enhances our understanding of the physiological processes within the tick midgut but also opens up potential avenues for developing control methods that target multiple tick species.

Evaluating Inclusion of Commercial Pistachio By-Product as a Functional Ingredient in Rainbow Trout Fishmeal and Plant Meal-Based Diets.

To meet the growing demand for sustainable aquaculture, plant proteins are being explored as alternative sources in fish diets. However, some plant proteins can have adverse health effects on fish, prompting research into functional feed ingredients to mitigate these issues. This study investigated pistachio shell powder (PSP), rich in antioxidants, as a functional feed ingredient for rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The effects of PSP inclusion (0%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%) on growth performance, intestinal health, and gut microbiota were assessed in fish fed either a fishmeal (FM) or plant meal (PM) diet over a 12-week feeding period. The results indicated that PSP inclusion at 1% significantly (p < 0.05) improved weight gain and growth performance in FM treatments, with no impact on growth in PM treatments. No significant differences were observed in other growth parameters, intestinal morphology, or oxidative stress markers, although a trend toward the downregulation of inflammatory genes was noted in PM treatments at 2% PSP inclusion. PSP inclusion did not significantly alter gut microbiota alpha diversity but affected beta diversity at the 0.5% level in the FM treatments (p < 0.05). Differential abundance analysis of gut microbiota revealed taxa-specific responses to PSP, particularly the genus Candidatus arthromitus, increasing in relative abundance with PSP inclusion in both the FM- and PM-based treatments. Overall, PSP inclusion up to 2% did not have significant adverse effects on the growth, intestinal health, or antioxidant status of rainbow trout.

Effects of Substituting Fishmeal with Soy Protein Concentrate Supplemented with Essential Amino Acids in the Olive Flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) Diet on the Expression of Genes Related to Growth, Stress, Immunity, and Digestive Enzyme.

This study identified the effects of substituting fishmeal (FM) with soy protein concentrate (SPC) supplemented with lysine and methionine in the olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) diet on the expression of genes related to growth, stress, immunity, and digestion. Three experimental diets were prepared; the control diet (Con) contained 60% FM, and the experimental diets contained 25% (SPC25) and 50% (SPC50) FM replaced by SPC. After the 140-day feeding period, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed availability, biological indices, and chemical composition of the muscle were not significantly affected by the dietary treatments. The gene expression levels of growth-related genes (IGF, GFB-3), immune-related genes (IL-8 and caspase), and stress-related genes (SOD, GPX, PRX, TRX) were higher in Con fish than in those fed the SPC25 and SPC50 diets. Chymo-TRY2, TRY2, and TRY3 in the stomach of fish fed the SPC25 diet were higher than fish fed the Con or SPC50 diets. TRY2 and lipase of fish fed the SPC25 diet were higher than those of fish fed the other diets but TRY3 was not significantly affected by the treatments in the intestine. In conclusion, substituting 25% FM with SPC was the most effective diet for the expression of growth, immune, stress, and digestive enzyme genes.

Effects of Nutritional Protocol Changes on Hemodialysis Adequacy and Patient Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, strict feeding restrictions were implemented in many dialysis centers to minimize transmission between patients. This study aims to evaluate the effects of these feeding restrictions on dry weight, intradialytic hypotension (IDH), and dialysis adequacy in hemodialysis patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this retrospective single-center study involving 76 hemodialysis patients, data from 2 consecutive 6-month periods were analyzed: the first before the COVID-19 pandemic when intradialytic nutrition was supported, and the second during the pandemic when intradialytic nutrition was restricted. Data from the patients' monthly visits during both periods were evaluated, averages were recorded, and a comparison was made between the 2 periods. RESULTS The frequency of IDH was significantly higher during the feeding period compared with the no-feeding period (1.4±1.2/month vs 0.81±0.86/month, P=0.01). Conversely, the urea reduction ratio was greater in the no-feeding period [72.5% (69-76) vs 71% (68-75), P=0.01], as were the single-pool Kt/V values (1.59±0.23 vs 1.52±0.26, P=0.004) and ultrafiltration rates (mL/h/kg) (11.4±3.0 vs 10.4±3.2, P=0.01). However, the dry weight of the patients was similar in the 2 periods (65.4±13.7 kg vs 65.7±14.2 kg, P=0.62). CONCLUSIONS During the COVID-19 pandemic, mandatory feeding restrictions for hemodialysis patients, aimed at reducing transmission, were linked to a decrease in IDH frequency and improved dialysis adequacy. However, no significant reduction in patients' dry weights was observed.