Increase In Relative Weight Research Articles

Nutritional Impact of Canola Meal on Performance, Blood Constituents and Immune Response of Broilers

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of replacing soybean meal (SBM) protein with canola meal (CM) protein on productive performance, nutrient digestibility, immune response, lymphoid organs, blood parameters, carcass fatty acids and cecum microbiota of broilers. A total of 160 one d-old Arbor Acres broiler chicks were randomly allocated to 4 dietary treatments of 5 replicates, where, CM protein replaced SBM protein at 0, 30, 60, and 90% for a 39 days feeding trial. The results showed no significant differences in productive performance parameters among control, 30% and 60% treatment groups, while, at 90% replacement level, all values decreased (P < 0.0001) all over the experimental period. The 90% replacement group showed depression of crude protein (P < 0.001) and crude fiber (P < 0.001) digestibility and spleen relative weight (P = 0.0386) with increase of thymus (P = 0.0555), bursa (P = 0.0334) and thyroid relative weight (P = 0.0276) as well as thyroid hormones (P = 0.0034, 0339) for T3, T4, respectively, while, there were no significant differences among control, 30% and 60% treatment groups for those criteria. However, CM levels had no effect on serum haemagglutination inhibition (HI) titer against Newcastle disease. CM significantly decreased serum cholesterol content (P = 0.0002) while increased HDL (P = 0.0532), compared to the control. CM levels showed an increase in carcass meat content of unsaturated fatty acids content (P < 0.0001) as the replacement level gradually increased. Erucic acid did not detected in carcass. All CM levels decreased cecum content of E. coli (P = 0.0051) while increased that of Lactobacillus (P = 4094). Conclusively, CM can be used safely in broiler diet to replace up to 60% of SBM protein without negative effects on growth and immune response of broilers.

Single intratracheal administration of cross-linked water-soluble acrylic acid polymer causes acute alveolo-interstitial inflammation and the subsequent fibrotic formation possibly via the TGF-β1 pathway in the lung of rats

In a Japanese chemical factory, a lung disease like pneumoconiosis appeared at a high rate among workers handling cross-linked water-soluble acrylic acid polymer (CWAAP). To our knowledge, no such case was known in the world until very recently. The present study was designed to elucidate the effect of single intratracheal CWAAP instillation on the lung of rats. The CWAAP group had a significant increase in relative lung weight accompanied by a significant elevation in the number of total cells, total protein concentrations, and myeloperoxidase concentrations in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid when compared to the control group. The histopathological study revealed acute lung inflammation with the destruction of alveoli. The factors promoting fibrosis, macrophages, TGF-β1, collagen and fibronectin vs. the factors suppressing fibrosis, matrix metalloproteinases were more powerfully driven in the CWAAP group, resultantly leading to fibrotic formation. In turn, we examined if acute lung inflammation and the subsequent fibrotic formation seen in the CWAAP group appeared in the other water-soluble polymer groups. Their histopathological findings were observed only in the polyacrylic acid sodium (PAAS), a monomer of CWAAP, group. The degree of inflammation and fibrogenesis was stronger in the CWAAP group than in the PAAS group. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated the induction of acute lung inflammation and the subsequent fibrotic formation by single intratracheal CWAAP instillation. The structural features of CWAAP that contains many carboxyl groups and cross-linked chains may be responsible for enhanced inflammation and fibrogenesis in the lung.

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT REGULARITIES AND EXTERNAL CONSTITUTIONAL FEATURES OF REPAIR YOUNG CATTLE BROUGHT THROUGH THE CROSSBREEDING OF UKRAINIAN BLACK-AND-WHITE DAIRY AND SWISS BREEDS

Goal. To study the influence of interbreeding of Ukrainian black-spotted dairy cows with bulls of Swiss breeds on growth and development and exterior-constitutional features of repair young stock. Methods. Selection-genetic analysis, comparative, statistical. Results. Research and production studies were conducted on the basis of the breeding plant of SE "Pasichna" ICSGP NAAS "Starosinyavsky district of Khmelnytsky region on the population of purebred animals of the Podolsk factory type of Ukrainian black-and-white dairy breed (UCHRMP) and local animals obtained from crossbreeding bulls of the Swiss breed. According to the results of experimental studies in identical conditions of feeding and keeping young animals of the experimental groups, it was found that the highest live weight, both at birth and in subsequent age periods is characterized by local young animals. However, a significant difference between the groups of 12.9 kg (td = 2.15; P > 0.95) in favor of crossbreeds is observed only at the age of 18 months. When studying the absolute increase in live weight of experimental calves in the three-month dynamics of postnatal ontogenesis, which is an indicator of the intensity of animal growth, the advantage of local animals over purebred peers was also established. The largest significant difference in their favor is observed at the age of 7–9 months (3.1 kg, td = 2.29, P > 0.95). In all other periods of cultivation, the difference is not significant. Comparative characteristics of the degree of stress in the growth of animals, which was determined by the relative increase in live weight in the three-month dynamics showed that the most intensively growing animals of both groups from birth to 3 months of age (168.0–169.3%), then – with increasing age, the growth rate gradually decreases. A significant difference between the experimental groups, according to the above indicators, has not been established. The average daily gains in live weight of animals, for all periods considered, were higher in local animals. On average, from birth to 18 months of age, they were: local heifers 660 g, purebred – 637 g. External evaluation of the studied groups of heifers showed that purebred young at 18 months of age had the highest height at the withers by 1.2 cm, height in the buttocks – 1.4 and oblique length of the torso and buttocks, respectively, 0.8 and 0.7 cm compared to local young, but inferior to the latter in latitudinal measurements: chest width 1.2 cm, width in macula – 0.9 and width in the buttocks – 1.1 cm. In general, animals of both groups are well developed and have a harmonious physique. Conclusions. The results of the analysis of the dynamics of live weight of experimental groups of heifers, aged from birth to 18 months of age, show that local young animals obtained from crossing cows of Ukrainian black-spotted dairy breed with bulls of Swiss breed have slightly better performance than peers of purebred animals . However, the difference between the groups is in most cases unlikely. External evaluation of the studied groups of heifers showed that purebred young for all considered periods, from birth to 18 months of age, have higher indicators in height at the withers, height in the buttocks and oblique length of the torso and buttocks, but inferior to local in latitudinal measurements : chest width, width in macula and width in the buttocks. Thus, it can be argued that when using crossbreeding of Ukrainian black-and-white dairy cows with bulls of Swiss breed, the obtained young animals have slightly higher rates of growth and development, which will further positively affect the size and quality of milk productivity, reproductive capacity and duration use of cows herd.

Daunorubicin associated to lipid core nanoparticles reduces atherosclerotic lesions, inflammation and cardiotoxicity in atherosclerosis rabbit model

Abstract Introduction Antiproliferative agents used in cancer chemotherapy have low toxicity and increased pharmacological action when carried into lipid core nanoparticles (LDE). LDE has similar structure to LDL and binds to LDL receptors through apo E it acquires in contact with plasma. Previously, we showed that treatment of rabbits with atherosclerosis with drugs such as taxanes and etoposide associate to LDE had pronounced reduction of the atherosclerotic lesions. In this study, we hypothesized whether daunorubicin (DNR) that belongs to another class of anti-cancer drugs, with a distinct mechanism of action and that has strong cardiotoxicity could also have effects against atherosclerosis. Methods Sixteen New Zealand male rabbits were fed with a 1% cholesterol diet for 8 weeks to induce atherosclerosis. After 4 weeks, the animals were treated weekly with LDE-DNR (6mg/kg, iv, n=9) or with LDE only (n=7). In addition, 3 animals without any intervention were used as a control group. Chow consumption, lipid and hematological profiles, body weight, and echocardiography were evaluated at baseline, pre-treatment and post-treatment. Morphometry and protein expression were performed to analyze the aortas. Results There was no difference in food intake and body weight for control, LDE and LDE-DNR groups. Total cholesterol, HDL-C, non-HDL-C and triglycerides increased in LDE and LDE-DNR groups when comparing baseline and post-treatment. Red blood cells decreased in LDE group at post-treatment in comparison to baseline, while LDE-DNR presented no such difference. Regarding aortic lesions of LDE-DNR group was 50% lower than LDE group. The protein expression of the inflammatory markers CD68, TNF-α and IL-6 in LDE-DNR was lower than LDE. Pro-apoptotic factors caspase 3, caspase 9 and BAX were also lower in LDE-DNR compared to LDE. Protein expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM) was lower in the LDE-DNR group when compared to the LDE group. To test the cardiotoxicity of LDE-DNR, echocardiography was performed and observed that under LDE-DNR both systolic and diastolic function were preserved with no difference in cardiac mass in LDE-DNR when compared to control and LDE groups. However, LDE showed a significant increase in relative heart weight compared to control while LDE-DNR had no such difference. Treatment with LDE-DNR did not induce observable hematological toxicity. Conclusion The treatment with LDE-DNR reduced aortic lesions, diminished inflammatory and pro-apoptotic factors, diminished VCAM expression in the aorta and promoted cardiac preservation in a rabbit atherosclerosis model. In conclusion, LDE-DNR can be eligible for future developments in the quest for novel effective and safe treatments for atherosclerosis. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): FAPESP (Fundaçao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo)

Impact of dietary fenugreek, mung bean, and garden cress on growth performance, carcass traits, blood measurements, and immune response in broiler chickens

ABSTRACT The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of different natural feed additive supplementation [fenugreek (FN), mung bean (MB), and garden cress (GC) seeds] on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, blood measurements, and immune response in broiler chickens. A total of 1,500 one-day-old unsexed broiler chickens (48.0 ± 0.5 g) were randomly assigned to 10 dietary treatments, each with 6 replicates of 25 broiler chickens. Broiler chickens were fed the control diets without any seeds and diets containing additives (FN, MB, and GC) at 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5% in a 3 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments + 1 during the starter-grower (d 0 to 28) and finisher (d 28 to 42) phases. Increasing dietary supplementation of seeds percentages linearly decreased body weight (P = 0.001) and increased feed conversion ratio (FCR, P = 0.001). Greater dietary concentrations of FN reduced body weight and FCR. The inclusion rate of dietary seeds had a quadratic increase of relative weights of bursa of Fabricius (P = 0.04). Increasing the dietary inclusion of seeds linearly increased plasma concentrations of total protein (P = 0.04) and globulin (P = 0.003). Blood cholesterol concentration was affected by the interaction between seeds and the inclusion rate (P = 0.01). Cell-mediated immune response (phagocytes, T-lymphocytes, cytokines, etc.) at 24 and 48 h post injection of phytohemagglutinin-P tended to be greater (P = 0.06) in experimental groups fed a diet containing MB and GC compared with FN. It could be concluded that feed additive treatments might be involved in improving cell-mediated immune response and plasma concentration of total protein and globulin in broiler chickens. Dietary inclusion of FN at 1.5 and 2.5% concentrations must be avoided due to deleterious effect on growth performance.

Salvia officinalis mitigates uterus and liver damages induced by an estrogen deficiency in ovariectomized rats.

The present study evaluated the antioxidant activity of Salvia officinalis (sage) and its protective effect on estrogen deficiency in ovariectomized rats. Female Wistar rats were treated during either 15 or 30days as follows: group C: negative controls, group S: positive controls treated with sage leaves, ovariectomized rats (group OVX) and ovariectomized rats receiving either sage (OVX-S) or hormonal (Group OVX-E) treatments, respectively. After 15 and 30days of treatments, OVX rats showed a gain in body weight and an increase of absolute and relative liver weights. Meanwhile, absolute and relative uterus weights were decreased. Moreover, ovariectomy altered plasma transaminases' activities, lipid profile, and disrupted the redox status of liver and uterine tissues. It affected also the reproductive tract by decreasing the uterus glycogen content and plasma LDH activity. Supplementation of sage via the diet reduced weight gain and oxidative stress resulting from estrogen deficiency. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: During menopause, sexual hormone deficiency, especially estrogen, causes several morphological and physiological disturbances in liver and uterus tissues. In fact, the body weight gain and disturbances of redox status in liver and uterus were the main health problems detected after menopause. Sage leaves, used as medicinal plant, exerted its beneficial effects in the management of menopause disorders. As an important source of antioxidants, sage leaves could prevent obesity and oxidative damage in the liver and uterus resulting from estrogen deficiency.

Life history shifts in an exploited African fish following invasion by a castrating parasite.

Evolutionary theory predicts that infection by a parasite that reduces future host survival or fecundity should select for increased investment in current reproduction. In this study, we use the cestode Ligula intestinalis and its intermediate fish host Engraulicypris sardella in Wissman Bay, Lake Nyasa (Tanzania), as a model system. Using data about infection of E. sardella fish hosts by L. intestinalis collected for a period of 10 years, we explored whether parasite infection affects the fecundity of the fish host E. sardella, and whether host reproductive investment has increased at the expense of somatic growth. We found that L. intestinalis had a strong negative effect on the fecundity of its intermediate fish host. For the noninfected fish, we observed an increase in relative gonadal weight at maturity over the study period, while size at maturity decreased. These findings suggest that the life history of E. sardella has been shifting toward earlier reproduction. Further studies are warranted to assess whether these changes reflect plastic or evolutionary responses. We also discuss the interaction between parasite and fishery‐mediated selection as a possible explanation for the decline of E. sardella stock in the lake.

Surface mining and low birth weight in central appalachia

BackgroundSurface mining has become a significant method of coal mining in the Central Appalachian region of the eastern United States alongside the traditional underground mining. Concerns have been raised about the health effects of this surface mining, particularly mountaintop removal mining where coal is mined upon steep mountaintops by removing the mountaintop through clearcutting forests and explosives. MethodsWe used a control group design with a pretest and a posttest to assess the associations of surface mining in Central Appalachia with low birth weight and other adverse birth outcomes. The pretest period is 1977–1989, a period of low surface mining activity. We consider three posttest periods: 1990–1998, 1999–2011 and 2012–2017, with 1999–2011 as the primary analysis and the other periods as secondary analyses. Surface mining in Central Appalachia increased after 1989, partly resulting from the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 which made surface mining in Appalachia more financially attractive. For the primary analysis, we fit a logistic regression model of the primary outcome (low birth weight, <2500 g) on dummy variables for county and year; individual level maternal/infant covariates (maternal race, maternal age, infant sex and whether birth was a multiple birth); and the amount of surface mining during the year of the birth in the maternal county of residence. ResultsOur analysis sample consisted of 783,328 infants -- 482,284 infants born from 1977 to 2017 to women residing in substantial surface mining activity counties and 301,044 infants born from 1977 to 2017 to women residing in matched control counties. Compared to the pre-period of low surface mining from 1977 to 1989, for the primary analysis posttest period of 1999–2011, there was an estimated relative increase in low birth weight in surface mining counties compared to matched control counties that was not statistically significant (odds ratio for a 5 percentage point increase in area disturbed by surface mining: 1.07, 95% confidence interval (0.96, 1.20), p-value: .22). For the secondary analysis posttest period of 1990–1998, there was no increase (odds ratio: 0.91, 95% confidence interval: (0.74, 1.13), p-value: .41). For the secondary analysis posttest period of 2012–2017, there was a statistically significant relative increase (odds ratio: 1.28, 95% confidence interval: (1.08, 1.50), p-value: .004). Qualitatively similar results were found for the outcomes of very low birth weight, preterm birth and small-for-gestational age. ConclusionsWe examined the hypothesis that surface mining activity in Central Appalachia contributes to low birth weight using an observational study. We found evidence in secondary analyses that surface mining was associated with low birth weight in the 2012–2017 time period and potentially beginning in the early to mid 2000's. Evidence for an association was not found prior to 2000. A potential explanation for this pattern of association is that surface mining caused an increase in low birth weight but its onset was delayed. Future research is needed to clarify the findings and if replicated, identify the mechanism necessary to mitigate the impacts of mining on adverse birth outcomes.

Impact of Rye Inclusion in Diets for Broilers on Performance, Litter Quality, Foot Pad Health, Digesta Viscosity, Organ Traits and Intestinal Morphology

Rye could offer diverse benefits in terms of sustainability if it could replace parts of the main cereals, corn and wheat, in broiler diets. A total of 256 broilers, Ross 308, were randomly allocated into 32 pens. From day 14 till day 42, the birds were divided into four feeding groups (eight replicates each). The control group received a conventional finisher diet “control”, whereas in the other groups, a pelleted supplementary feed was offered (SFI to corn and SFII to rye), to which crushed corn (SFI-Corn) or squashed rye (SFII-Rye) was added. The fourth group received a mixture of 50% SFI-Corn and 50% SFII-Rye. The cereal level was increased weekly (5%, 10%, 20%, 30%) at the expense of the supplementary feeds. No significant effects were observed for body weight at d 42 and excreta viscosity between all groups. Overall, foot pad health was excellent. Compared to the control group, birds fed SFI-Corn displayed a significant increase in gizzard relative weight, whereas, in contrast to all other groups, ileal villus height was significantly lower. In conclusion, feeding SFI-Corn or SFII-Rye diets had no negative influences on performance, litter quality and digesta viscosity, whereas SFI-Corn partially affected ileal morphology.

Effect of Dietary Supplementation with Coarse or Extruded Oat Hulls on Growth Performance, Blood Biochemical Parameters, Ceca Microbiota and Short Chain Fatty Acids in Broiler Chickens.

Simple SummaryOat hull (OH) is an excellent source of insoluble fiber, which may improve chickens’ gastrointestinal health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Extrusion may modify OH fiber fractions resulting in a differential effect on gut microbiota. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of dietary supplementation with coarse or extruded OH on growth performance, blood biochemistry and cecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and microbiota of broiler chickens. Broiler chickens were assigned four diets: a corn-wheat-soybean-based diet, an antibiotics diet, 3% coarse OH (COH), and 3% extruded OH (EOH) supplemented diets. Birds fed COH and EOH had reduced BWG, but there was no diet effect on FCR. There was a significant increase in relative gizzard weight among birds that were fed COH. Dietary treatments had no effect on blood biochemical parameters and SCFA concentration. Cecal microbial composition of chickens was mostly comprised of Firmicutes and Tenericutes. Seven bacteria species that were differentially abundant among treatments were identifiedThe purpose of this study was to determine the effect of dietary supplementation with coarse or extruded oat hulls on growth performance, blood biochemistry, cecal microbiota, and short chain fatty acids (SCFA) in broiler chickens. Chickens were randomly allotted to four dietary treatments consisting of a corn-wheat-soybean meal-based diet (Basal), Basal + Bacitracin methylenedisalicylate (BMD), Basal +3% coarse OH (COH), and basal +3% extruded OH (EOH). Feed intake (FI), body weight gain (BWG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded weekly. On day 36, eight chickens/treatment were euthanized, blood samples were collected, and organ weights were determined. Cecal digesta samples were collected for the determination of SCFA concentration and microbial DNA sequence. Data were subjected to ANOVA using the mixed procedure of SAS. Alpha diversity was estimated with the Shannon index, and the significance of diversity differences was tested with ANOVA. Birds fed COH and EOH had reduced (p < 0.05) BWG, but there was no effect of treatment on FCR. There was a significant increase (p = 0.0050) in relative gizzard empty weight among birds that were fed COH, compared to the other treatments. Dietary treatments had no effect on blood biochemical parameters and SCFA concentration. Cecal microbial composition of chickens was mostly comprised of Firmicutes and Tenericutes. Seven OTUs that were differentially abundant among treatments were identified. In conclusion, supplementation of broiler chickens’ diets with 3% COH or EOH did not affect the FCR, blood biochemical parameters and SCFA concentration, but modified few cecal microbiota at the species level. Dietary supplementation with COH but not EOH significantly increased the relative gizzard weight.

Effect of partial replacement of soybean meal with high-temperature fermented soybean meal in antibiotic-growth-promoter-free diets on growth performance, organ weights, serum indexes, intestinal flora and histomorphology of broiler chickens

In order to investigate the effects of the dietary supplementation of high-temperature fermented soybean meal (HFSBM) without antibiotics on broiler chickens, a total of 270 one-day-old chicks were distributed ad libitum to 5 dietary treatments with 6 pen replications of 9 birds, consisting of two control treatments (basal diet (HFSBM0, 0 g kg−1) and basal diet plus antibiotics (Ant) and three HFSBM addition treatments (50, 100 and 150 g kg−1). After fermentation with Bacillus stearothermophilus, the crude protein, peptide and total phenolic contents in HFSBM significantly increased, while trypsin inhibitor activity decreased by 74% compared to soybean meal (SBM). Growth performance was determined on day 0, 21 and 42. After the 42-d feeding experiment, one chick from each pen was picked out for sampling on day 42. Samples of blood, heart, liver, spleen, thymus, bursa of Fabricius, duodenum, jejunum, ileum and cecum were collected for analysis. Dietary supplementation with HFSBM (50, 100 and 150) presented no significant influence on growth performance of broilers, but had positive effects on increase of relative weights of thymus and bursa of Fabricius, reduction of glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) level in serum, improvement of intestinal morphology and gut flora. Results showed that chicks fed with HFSBM-containing diets had an increasing tendency (P = 0.111 & 0.156) on the relative weight of thymus compared to HFSBM0 and Ant controls, and also an increasing tendency (P = 0.051) on the relative weight of bursa of Fabricius compared to the Ant (days 1−42). Meanwhile, the GOT level in serum reduced tendentiously (P = 0.112) compared to HFSBM0, while decreased significantly (P = 0.024) compared to Ant. The villus height to crypt depth ratio (V/C) of the duodenum was higher (P = 0.003 & 0.008) than that in chicks fed with HFSBM0 and Ant. The count of B. subtilis in jejunum digesta increased significantly (P = 0.001 & P = 0.001) compared to two controls, and the B. subtilis count in ileum digesta enhanced significantly compared to Ant. Furthermore, the E. coli populations of digesta in duodenum and cecum decreased significantly (P = 0.001 & P < 0.001) compared with HFSBM0. The HFSBM supplementation diet is expected to be a promising antibiotic-growth-promoter-free (AGP-free) feed for broiler chickens.

Acute, Sub-acute and Cell Toxicity of Allium elburzense Bulb Hydroalcoholic Extract

Background and objectives Allium elburzense is an endemic plant in north of Iran with some nutritional and medicinal applications; however, there is no data on its safety profile. This study was aimed to investigate cytotoxicity, acute and sub-acute toxicity of hydroalcoholic extract of A. elburzense bulb. Methods Total phenolic content of the extract was measured using Folin-Ciocalteumethod. For cytotoxicity assay, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were used. In acute toxicity study, single oral dose of 2000 mg/kg was administered in female and male Wistar rats and they were monitored for two weeks. In sub-acute test, 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg/day of extract were orally administered for four weeks. Results Total phenolic content was estimated as 32.8 ± 2.5 mg gallic acid equivalent/g of the extract. The extract showed IC50 value of 366.4 µg/mL (95% CI = 246.4-566.1) in HUVECs after 24 h exposure. In acute study, there was no sign of toxicity and no mortality; however, significant increase in relative spleen weight and ALP activity and mild inflammation in kidney tissue were observed. LD50 ˃ 2000 mg/kg was estimated for A. elburzense bulb extract. In sub-acute assay, there were significant elevations in relative spleen weight, blood urea level, AST, ALT, ALP, total WBC, lymphocyte and neutrophil count and significant decrease in blood sugar and triglyceride levels at higher doses of the extract. ConclusionAllium elburzense bulb extract may be considered as safe at doses lower than 500 mg/kg in rats; however, assessment of liver and kidney functions is recommended during chronic uses.

Protective effect of nigella sativa and thymoquinone on relative liver weight increase caused by aflatoxin in broilers

Protective effect of nigella sativa and thymoquinone on relative liver weight increase caused by aflatoxin in broilers

Novel approach for pathogenesis of osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats as a model of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Obesity and osteoporosis are two chronic conditions that have been increasing in prevalence. Menopausal transition years place women at high risk for visceral obesity as well as osteoporosis. This study was carried out to elucidate the effect of visceral adiposity on ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats. We studied female Wistar rats aged 12-14months, divided into four groups: a) Sham-operated control (SHAM) rats (n=12), rats were fed a control diet (59% of food intake from carbohydrates, 7% from fat, 21% from protein, 13% from minerals and ash) for 12weeks, b) High fat diet-fed control (HFD) group (n=9), rats were fed a high fat diet (49% of food intake from carbohydrates, 17% from fat, 21% from protein, 13% from minerals and ash)for 12weeks, c) Ovariectomized (OVX) rats (n=14), rats were fed a control diet as SHAM rats, d) High fat diet- fed ovariectomized (OVX- HFD) rats (n=13), rats were fed a high fat diet as HFD group. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected for calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assays. Unilateral left perirenal fats were surgically removed and weighed. Specimens from right perirenal fats and tibia were isolated and processed for histological examination. Histomorphometric analysis of the tibia and visceral adipose tissue was also performed. OVX, HFD, and OVX-HFD rats showed a significant increase in relative visceral fat weight, and plasma ALP, and a significant decrease in plasma calcium, and phosphorus levels compared to SHAM rats. Light microscopic examination of the tibia of the OVX rats revealed a significant decrease in the cortical bone thickness (CBT) and the trabecular bone thickness (TBT), and a significant increase in bone marrow adipose tissue compared to SHAM rats. In addition, there was a significant increase in the osteoclast number, and a significant decrease in the osteoblast number. The changes in bone marrow adipose tissue as well as osteoclast number were further accentuated in OVX-HFD groups. Visceral obesity played a crucial role in the development of osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats through effects that might involve both osteoblasts and osteoclasts.

Protective effects of Avena sativa against oxidative stress-induced kidney damage resulting from an estrogen deficiency in ovariectomized Swiss mice model.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of Avena sativa and to confirm its protective effects on estrogen deficiency in ovariectomized mice (OVX) model. Animals were treated during 21 and 60days as follows: negative control, positive control treated with oat, ovariectomized, and ovariectomized receiving hormonal or oat treatments, respectively. 21days post-surgery, our results showed that ovariectomy increases weight gain and urea level in plasma. After 60days of treatment, OVX showed a gain in weight, high increases in relative kidney weight, plasmatic creatinine, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity, and protein oxidation as shown by elevated protein carbonyl (PCO) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) levels. On the other side, a decrease was detected in catalase activity. Meanwhile, no significant changes in urea level, lipid peroxidation, SOD and GSH activity were detected. Conversely, supplementation with oat reduced weight gain, as well as oxidative stress and oxidation protein in the kidney of OVX mice. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: In our study, we removed the two ovaries of adult female mice in order to eliminate the essential source of steroid hormones. Deficiency in these sexual hormones, especially estrogen, leads to several physiological and morphological disturbances that are found in post-menopausal women. The gain in weight and oxidative kidney damages were the main health problems detected in ovariectomized animals. This work explored for the first time the use of oat grains as a safe natural remedy to treat all previous health problems and to avoid carcinogenic effects of the menopausal hormone therapy. Owing to its health benefits, this cereal species has recently gained attention as an important source of antioxidants and fibers. Thanks to these two components, it can be able to restore all indicated disturbances. Therefore, this cereal can be very useful in the prevention of obesity and kidney oxidative damage occurring during menopause.

Effect of Levosimendan, an Inodilator, on Streptozotocin‐Induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats

Levosimendan, an inodilator, was shown to have a renal protective effect in different models of kidney dysfunction in experimental animals and in patients with heart failure. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of levosimendan on streptozotocin‐induced early diabetic nephropathy. Male Sprague Dawley rats (n = 24, 320–400 g) were randomly distributed into four groups and treated for 6 weeks. Groups 1 and 3 received either vehicle or levosimendan (1 mg/kg/day) for the last three weeks, respectively. Groups 2 and 4 were rendered diabetic by a single i.p. injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg) and were treated as in groups 1 and 3, respectively. At the end of the experiment, rats were placed in metabolic cages and urine was collected for biochemical analysis. Rats were then anesthetized and blood samples collected for biochemical analysis. Kidneys were removed for histopathology. In the untreated diabetic group, there was a significant decrease in body weight, polyuria and increased relative kidney weight. There was increased urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR), 24 hour (h) albumin level and N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase (NAG)/creatinine ratio (UNCR). Streptozotocin did not cause a significant effect on creatinine clearance when adjusted to body weight. In addition, diabetes was associated with increased oxidative stress [reduced plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and catalase activities]. Kidneys from streptozotocin‐treated rats showed focal clear renal tubular cells affecting proximal convoluted tubules and focal mild interstitial fibrosis at the cortico‐medullary junction. Levosimendan significantly attenuated the reduction in body weight, polyuria and the increase in relative kidney weight. In addition, it significantly attenuated the increase in UACR, urinary 24 h albumin level and UNCR in diabetic rats. It also significantly mitigated the decrease in plasma TAC and catalase activities in diabetic rats. Rats in the diabetic group treated with levosimendan showed less clear cell changes but similar interstitial fibrosis when compared with the untreated diabetic group. This study shows that levosimendan ameliorated some of the changes seen in streptozotocin‐induced early diabetic nephropathy in rats. This could be partly due to its antioxidative effects.Support or Funding InformationSupported by an internal grant from Sultan Qaboos University (IG/MED/PHAR/18/01)

Disruption of cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver and small intestine in chicken embryos in ovo exposed to glyphosate.

Glyphosate is the active component of several commercial formulations as in Roundup®. The present study was investigated the toxic effects of pure glyphosate or Roundup® on the liver and small intestine of chick embryos. On day 6, a total of 180 fertile eggs injected with deionized water (control group), 10mg pure glyphosate, or 10mg of the active ingredient glyphosate in Roundup®/kg egg mass. The results showed an increase in relative weights of the liver in embryos that treated with Roundup®. Furthermore, oxidative stress was observed in the embryos treated with glyphosate or Roundup®, increased total superoxide dismutase, and content of malondialdehyde in the liver and intestine; moreover, decrease of glutathione peroxidase in the liver with increased in the intestine compared with the control. Besides, glutamic-pyruvic transaminase was increased in Roundup® group compared with other groups. Moreover, histopathological alterations in the liver and intestine tissues were observed in treated groups. Suppression of hepatic CYP1A2, CYP1A4, CYP1B1, and MDR1 mRNA expression after exposed to Roundup®. Furthermore, inhibition of CYP1A4 in the duodenum, CYP1A4, and MRP2 in the jejunum in embryos exposed to glyphosate or Roundup®. In addition, glyphosate treatment caused an increase of CYP3A5, CYP1C1, and IFNY mRNA expression in the jejunum and CYP1A2 expression in the ileum, while IFN-Y gene increase in embryos treated with Roundup®. In conclusion, in ovo exposure to glyphosate caused histopathological alterations and induced oxidative stress in the liver and small intestines. Moreover, the expression of cytochrome P450, MDR1, and MRP2 transporters was also modulated in the liver and small intestines for chick embryos.

Sodium butyrate as an effective feed additive to improve growth performance and gastrointestinal development in broilers.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary sodium butyrate (SB) supplementation on growth performance, the development of gastrointestinal tract and immune organs (thymus, spleen and bursa of fabricius), and serum antibody titer after Newcastle disease (ND) vaccination in broilers. The total of 288 1‐day‐old broilers were randomly allocated to four groups with six replications according to initial body weight. Four treatment groups were designed as follows and fed the indicated diets: CON, basal diet; T1, basal diet supplemented with 0.3 g/kg SB; T2, basal diet supplemented with 0.6 g/kg SB; T3, basal diet supplemented with 1.2 g/kg SB. During days 1–21, broilers fed the T2 diet had higher (p < .05) average daily gain (ADG) than broilers fed the CON diet. On day 21, dietary SB supplementation showed linear increase (p < .05) in relative weight of the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, small intestine (the sum weight of duodenum, jejunum and ileum), pancreas and thymus, and linear increase (p < .05) in relative length of the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, small intestine (the sum length of duodenum, jejunum and ileum) and caeca. Meanwhile, dietary SB supplementation showed linear increase in the antibody titer against ND on days 14, 21, 28 and 35. In conclusion, dietary SB supplementation improved the development of gastrointestinal by increasing the relative weight and length, as well as enhanced the immune response of ND vaccine.

Aortae of Young Rats with Metabolic Syndrome Exhibit Enhanced Vasoconstrictor Activity Than Older Rats

Abstract Background Metabolic syndrome (MetS) causes pathological remodeling of the heart and adjacent vessels. The functional changes in the big vessels in different age groups had not been fully delineated. Aim of the work The present study was planned to investigate aortic vasodilator and vasoconstrictor reactivity in young, adult and old female rats with MetS. Design: The experimental study was performed on 90 female albino rats randomized into 6 groups: young, adult and old rats with MetS and their respective control groups. Methods MetS was induced by feeding rats 41% fructose -containing diet and giving fructose solution (5 g fructose in 4 ml distilled water/day) by gavage in two sessions (2 ml/session). On the 8th week, all rats were sacrificed and were subjected to determination of body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), absolute and relative visceral fat weight (VF), fasting blood glucose (FBG), plasma insulin (PI), homeostasis model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and plasma lipid profile. All rats’ aortae were subjected to study of vascular reactivity to Potassium chloride (KCL), phenylephrine (PE) and acetyl choline (A.Ch) as well as estimation of nitrite content. Results On the 8th week of the study, all MetS groups developed criteria of metabolic syndrome as evidenced by the significant increase in final BW, BMI, absolute and relative VF weights, FBG, PI and HOMA-IR compared to their control group values. Also, MetS rat groups exhibited evident dyslipidemia in the form of significant increase in plasma levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol and significant decrease in HDL-cholesterol compared to their control group values. Aortae of young and adult MetS rat groups showed significant increase in their vasoconstrictor response to KCl and PE and decrease in A.Ch/KCL% and A.Ch/PE % compared to their controls, while old MetS rat group showed significantly increased vasoconstrictor response only to KCL compared to their controls. When compared to each other, young age MetS group had significantly higher vasoconstrictor response to PE compared to old MetS group despite comparable nitrite content. Conclusion Met.S causes functional vascular changes in all age groups with unexpectedly enhanced vasoconstrictor response in the young group compared to old.

Dietary β-sitosterol regulates serum lipid level and improves immune function, antioxidant status, and intestinal morphology in broilers

This research investigated effects of dietary β-sitosterol addition at different levels on serum lipid levels, immune function, oxidative status, and intestinal morphology in broilers. One-day-old broiler chicks were allocated to 5 groups of 6 replicates. Chickens in the 5 groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with 0 (control group), 40, 60, 80, and 100 mg/kg of β-sitosterol for 42 D, respectively. β-Sitosterol linearly decreased (P < 0.05) concentrations of serum total cholesterol, jejunal tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and ileal interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and mRNA relative expressions levels of jejunal TLR4 and ileal MyD88, whereas it linearly increased (P < 0.05) contents of jejunal immunoglobulin G (IgG), ileal secreted IgA and glutathione, jejunal catalase activity and Nrf2 mRNA relative expression level, villus height (VH), and VH-to-crypt depth (CD) ratio (VH:CD) in the jejunum and ileum. Linear and quadratic increases (P < 0.05) in absolute and relative spleen weight were observed by dietary β-sitosterol, whereas malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration in the jejunum and ileum followed the opposite trend (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, dietary β-sitosterol at higher than or equal to 60 mg/kg level decreased (P < 0.05) contents of serum total cholesterol, ileal MDA, and jejunal TLR4 mRNA relative expression level, whereas it increased (P < 0.05) absolute spleen weight and ileal glutathione content. Higher than or equal to 80 mg/kg level of β-sitosterol enhanced (P < 0.05) jejunal IgG concentration, VH, catalase activity, and Nrf2 relative expression level and ileal secreted IgA content, but reduced (P < 0.05) ileal IL-1β content and MyD88 mRNA relative expression level. β-Sitosterol addition at 60 and 80 mg/kg levels increased (P < 0.05) relative spleen weight, whereas it decreased (P < 0.05) jejunal MDA accumulation. Moreover, 100 mg/kg level of β-sitosterol reduced (P < 0.05) jejunal TNF-α level, but it increased (P < 0.05) VH in the jejunum and VH:CD in the jejunum and ileum. Accordingly, dietary β-sitosterol supplementation could regulate serum cholesterol level, promote immune function, and improve intestinal oxidative status and morphology in broilers.