Similar Weight Research Articles

Transcriptomics and metabolomics insights into the seasonal dynamics of meat quality in yak on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau

BackgroundMeat quality in yak is influenced by the fluctuation of nutritional composition in different grazing seasons on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. However, the molecular mechanism underlying in yak meat remains unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the seasonal dynamics of meat quality in yak by transcriptomics and metabolomics techniques. Twelve healthy female yaks with a similar weight were divided into two groups, including the warm season group (WS) and cold season group (CS). After slaughter, samples of longissimus lumborum were collected and subjected to transcriptomics and metabolomics to explore the effects of different seasons on meat quality.ResultsYak in the WS group had higher contents of n-3 Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), n-6 PUFA, threonine, and valine compared to the CS group, but the pH45min and b* values were lower. A total of 75 differentially expressed metabolites in the longissimus lumborum muscle were identified, with 23 metabolites upregulated and 52 metabolites downregulated in the WS group. These metabolites were mainly enriched in the pathway of glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and carbohydrate digestion and absorption. In comparison, the WS group exhibited 262 upregulated genes in the longissimus lumborum muscle and 81 downregulated genes relatives to the CS group, which were enriched in the fat deposition of TGF-beta, ECM-receptor interaction, MAPK, and PPAR signaling pathway.ConclusionsAmong these, downregulated genes NPNT, GADL1, SESN3, and CPXM1 were associated with lipid metabolism and fat deposition in grazing yaks. It was found that DDC, DHTKD1, CCBL1, GCDH, and AOC1 involved in the tryptophan metabolism played an important role in the regulation of energy metabolism in yak.

Effect of composite yeast culture on the jejunal barrier function, inflammatory response, and microbial community structure of laying hens during the late stage of egg production

During the late laying period, the intestinal barrier of laying hens is susceptible to damage, resulting in enteric infections and even systemic inflammatory responses, posing a major challenge for the poultry industry. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate methods for addressing intestinal inflammation in late laying hens. In order to maximize the production potential of egg laying chickens, farmers usually use various feed additives to prevent damage to the intestinal barrier. Composite yeast cultures have shown advantages in broiler applications. This study aims to assess the impact of composite yeast culture (CYC) on the intestinal barrier function, inflammatory cytokines, and microbial community structure of Hy-Line Brown laying hens. A total of 160 healthy Hy-Line Brown hens, aged 58 weeks and of similar weight, were randomly assigned to two groups, with four replicates per group and 20 hens in each replicate. The control group was fed a basal diet (Con), while the experimental group was provided with a diet supplemented with 40 g/kg of composite yeast culture (CYC). The test period was 25 days. The results indicated that: compared to the control group, CYC significantly improved the egg production rates of hens during days 11–15, 16–20, and 21–25 (p < 0.05). CYC significantly enhanced the relative mRNA expression levels of occludin, claudin-1, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), and mucin 2 (Muc2) in the intestinal tract (p < 0.05), while reducing the relative expression levels of pro-inflammatory factors TNF-α and IFN-γ (p < 0.05), and increasing the levels of anti-inflammatory factors IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β1 (p < 0.05). CYC significantly increased the abundance of Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii in the intestine. These findings suggest that the composite yeast culture (CYC) can improve the structure of the intestinal microbial community. In conclusion, CYC may enhance egg production rates, reduce inflammatory responses, and strengthen intestinal barrier function by modulating the composition of the intestinal microbiota in late laying hens.

Effects of Bacillus subtilis KG109 on Growth Performance, Carcass Quality, Serum Indicators, Intestinal Morphology, and Digestive Enzymes in Broilers

The purpose of this experiment is to investigate how different doses of Bacillus subtilis KG109 powder affect the growth performance, carcass quality, serum biochemical indexes, serum antioxidant and immunological index, intestinal morphology, and digestive enzyme activity of broilers. Four hundred chicks of a similar weight (1 day old) are randomly assigned to four groups of five replicates of 20 chicks each (half males and half females). The control group is fed a basal ration, and the experimental groups T1, T2, and T3 are supplemented with 6.0 × 108 CFU/kg, 1.2 × 109 CFU/kg, and 1.8 × 109 CFU/kg of Bacillus subtilis KG109 bacterial powder, respectively, in the basal ration. The feeding cycle is 52 d. Compared with the control group, Bacillus subtilis KG109 powder (1) increases the broiler feed conversion ratio (FCR) (p < 0.05), (2) improves the carcass quality (slaughter rate, cooking loss, L* and b* values) (p < 0.05), (3) enhances the serum biochemical indexes (alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate transaminase (AST), albumin (ALB), and triglycerides (TG)) (p < 0.05), (4) improves the serum antioxidant capacity (total an-tioxidant capacity (T-AOC), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX)) and immunoglobulins (lg A, lg G, lg M) (p < 0.05), (5) improves the intestinal morphology (villus height and villus height to crypt depth (VCR)) (p < 0.05), and (6) increases the intestinal digestive enzyme activities (amylase, protease, and lipase) (p < 0.05). In summary, adding Bacillus subtilis KG109 to broiler diets can result in a significant decrease in broilers’ FCR, an increase in their slaughtering rate, a decrease in their serum ALT, ALP, and AST activities, an increase in their serum TG content, an improvement of their immune and antioxidant capacity, an improvement of their intestinal morphology, and an improvement of their intestinal digestive enzyme activity. It is recommended to add 1.8 × 109 CFU/kg of bacteria.

Ameliorative effect of phenolic compound-pterostilbene on corticosterone-induced hepatic lipid metabolic disorder in broilers

The aim of this study was to investigate the ameliorative effects of pterostilbene (PTE), a polyphenolic compound, on stress-induced lipid metabolic disorders in the liver of broiler chickens. Six hundred healthy, one-day-old Arbor Acres (AA) with similar weight were randomly assigned to five groups, each consisting of 8 replicates with 15 broilers per replicate. The groups included: a control group (fed a basal diet), and four groups treated with corticosterone (CORT) at varying dietary levels of PTE supplementation: CORT (0 mg/kg PTE), CORT-PT200 (200 mg/kg PTE), CORT-PT400 (400 mg/kg PTE), and CORT-PT600 (600 mg/kg PTE). The results indicated that PTE administration to corticosterone (CORT)-injected broilers significantly improved weight gain, reduced liver index, and lowered the elevation of serum AST, GGT, Glu, TC, TG, and LDL-c concentrations induced by CORT injection (P < 0.05), but had no significant effect on serum CORT concentration (P > 0.05). PTE also significantly reduced the increased rate of abdominal fat deposition induced by CORT, decreased the average size of adipocytes, and downregulated the expression of the FAS gene (P < 0.05). It reversed the increase in liver TC, TG, LDL-c, and NEFA content induced by CORT (P < 0.05). PTE had no significant effect on the expression of the glucocorticoid receptor GR (P > 0.05), but significantly upregulated the protein expression of Sirt1 and p-AMPK (P < 0.05), promoted the expression of lipid autophagy genes MAP1LC3B and lipolytic genes LPL, but inhibited the expression of fatty acid synthesis genes SREBP-1c, ACC, and SCD (P < 0.05). The addition of PTE to the diet alleviated CORT-induced oxidative stress and inflammation by enhancing T-SOD and GSH-Px activities, reducing MDA content, inhibiting p-NF-κB p65 and NLRP3 expression and the release of TNF-α and IL-1β in the serum, and increasing IL-4 content (P < 0.05). Overall, dietary PTE effectively regulates lipid metabolism and antioxidant status, offering a potential strategy to mitigate stress-induced metabolic disruptions in broilers.

Comparison of laser diffractometry and pipetting methods for particle size determination: A pilot study on the implications of result discrepancies on soil classification

AbstractIn recent decades, the determination of particle size distribution (PSD) using the laser diffraction method (LDM) has become increasingly common, supplanting traditional sedimentation techniques. Advances in everything from sample preparation to software settings have been realized globally, whether through recommendations from laser diffraction (LD) manufacturers or through user experiences. These developments seek to enhance accuracy and diminish the uncertainties associated with new methodologies. Particularly in the determination of PSD using LDM on various LD instruments and in comparison with the sieve–pipette method (SPM), discrepancies in PSD frequently arise. This article aims to mitigate these discrepancies by predefining parameters, specifically through the adjustment of LD software settings and sample preparation (employing a uniform set of dispersed samples in potassium hydroxide) on two widely used LD instruments for soil measurements: Mastersizer 3000 and Analysette 22. Additionally, these samples were analyzed using the traditional SPM (ISO 11277, 1998), with the results from LDM and SPM subsequently compared. The paper also explores the impact, range of user options, and limitations of predefined software settings on both LD instruments. Eighty soil samples were analyzed for PSD, collected from arable land in the cadastral area of Hrušky, district of Břeclav (Czech Republic), in spring 2022, from depths of 0‐ to 10‐cm and 10‐ to 20‐cm. Significant differences in PSD were confirmed, although the trends of the grain size distribution curves were very similar to those of LDM. Results from the Mastersizer underestimated the clay fraction by an average of 17% compared to SPM, at the expense of the sand fraction, whereas the silt fraction was underestimated by a maximum of 4%. Conversely, Analysette 22 overestimated the silt fraction by an average of 37% at the expense of the sand fraction, confirming only a slight difference in the clay fraction: 3%. Moreover, the quantity of sample entering the dispersion unit was identified as a significant issue when comparing LD instruments, despite the obscuration value being nearly identical, that is, 20%–30%. Therefore, it was not possible to achieve the same or similar weight when introducing suspension into circulation. The robustness of the obtained results underscores the importance of understanding input parameters when interpreting results between different methods.

Influence of the prebiotic Immunobeta and the combination Immunobeta + Zoovit probiotic on haematological parameters in breed Ile-de-France lambs

Abstract. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect from supplementation of the prebiotic Immunobeta and the probiotic Zoovit on haematological parameters in Ile-de-France lambs. The experiment was conducted in the experimental farm of the Agricultural Institute, Stara Zagora. A total of 45 lambs divided into 3 groups of 15 animals each with similar initial live body weight, sex and birth type were included – one control and two experimental. Each animal from experimental group I was supplemented once daily with 8 g prebiotic Immunobeta and those from experimental group II received the same amount of the prebiotic plus 4 g probiotic Zoovit. Blood samples for analysis were collected from 8 animals per group in the beginning and the end of the trial. The group supplemented with the combination Immunobeta + Zoovit had statistically significantly higher haemoglobin content (P&lt;0.05) and haematocrit (P=0.013) that the group fed a diet with Immunobeta prebiotic. The mean corpuscular volume was lower (P&lt;0.05) in experimental group I vs. controls. The addition of the Immunobeta prebiotic resulted in reduced haemoglobin (Р=0.012), haematocrit (Р=0.012), mean corpuscular volume (Р&lt;0.001), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (Р&lt;0.001), mean platelet volume (Р=0.002), platelet distribution width (Р=0.001) and volume of platelet participation (Р=0.002) at the end of the trial period. After the supplementation with synbiotic, there was a trend towards lower haemoglobin content (Р=0.088). The Immunobeta + Zoovit addition to the diet resulted in statistically significantly reduced haematocrit (Р&lt;0.05), reduced mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, mean platelet volume (Р&lt;0.001), platelet distribution width (Р&lt;0.01) and volume of platelet participation levels (Р&lt;0.05).

Similar weight loss with semaglutide regardless of diabetes and cardiometabolic risk parameters in individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: Post hoc analysis of three randomised controlled trials.

Weight loss mediated by glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues is lower in patients with type 2 diabetes versus those without. Type 2 diabetes and obesity are risk factors for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and associated steatohepatitis (MASH). We evaluated weight changes in adults with MASLD/MASH with or without type 2 diabetes receiving the GLP-1 analogue semaglutide. This was a post hoc analysis of data from three 48-72-week randomised trials investigating the effect of semaglutide versus placebo in adults with MASLD (NCT03357380) or biopsy-confirmed MASH (NCT02970942 and NCT03987451). Pooled data for semaglutide (0.4 mg once daily and 2.4 mg once weekly [n = 163]) and placebo (n = 137) were analysed at 1 year. Weight changes were analysed by type 2 diabetes status (type 2 diabetes [n = 209], pre-type 2 diabetes [n = 51] and no diabetes [n = 40]) and by other cardiometabolic risk parameters using analysis of covariance and Spearman's rank correlations. The overall mean weight change was -11.1 kg (-11.7%) and -0.7 kg (-0.6%) with semaglutide and placebo, respectively. While numerically higher for people without type 2 diabetes, estimated treatment differences with semaglutide versus placebo were similar overall for people with type 2 diabetes (-10.2 kg; -10.8%), pre-type 2 diabetes (-9.8 kg; -10.2%) and no diabetes (-11.6 kg; -13.1%). Differences between groups were not statistically significant (p > 0.50 for all). Baseline fasting plasma glucose, glycated haemoglobin, insulin levels, insulin resistance and lipids did not correlate with weight change. People with MASLD/MASH had similar semaglutide-mediated weight loss regardless of type 2 diabetes status and other cardiometabolic risk parameters.

Exploring the molecular basis of efficient feed utilization in low residual feed intake slow-growing ducks based on breast muscle transcriptome

Residual feed intake (RFI) has recently gained attention as a key indicator of feed efficiency in poultry. In this study, 800 slow-growing ducks with similar initial body weights were reared in an experimental facility until they were culled at 42 d of age. Thirty high RFI (HRFI) and 30 low RFI (LRFI) birds were selected to evaluate their growth performance, carcass characteristics, and muscle development. Transcriptome and weighted gene co-expression correlation network analyses of pectoral muscles were conducted on six LRFI and six HRFI ducks. The results revealed that selecting for LRFI significantly reduced feed consumption (P < 0.05) and improved feed efficiency without affecting the growth performance, slaughter rate, or meat quality of ducks (P > 0.05). Moreover, compared with HRFI ducks, LRFI ducks had a lower pectoral muscle fat content (P < 0.05), larger muscle fiber diameter and area (P < 0.05), and lower muscle fiber density (P < 0.05). There were significant differences in gene expression between LRFI and HRFI ducks, with 102 upregulated and 258 downregulated genes, which were enriched in the PPAR signaling pathway, adipocytokine signaling pathway, actin cytoskeleton regulation, ECM-receptor interaction, and focal adhesion. The expression of genes associated with fat and energy metabolism, including ACSL6, PCK1, APOC3, HMGCS2, PRKAG3, and G6PC1, was downregulated in LRFI ducks, and weighted gene co-expression correlation network analysis identified PRKAG3 as a hub gene. Our findings indicate that reduced mitochondrial energy metabolism may contribute to the RFI of slow-growing ducks, with PRKAG3 playing a pivotal role in this biological process. These findings provide novel insights into the molecular changes underlying RFI variation in slow-growing ducks.

How Does the Largest Cluster in the Strong Network Rule Granular Soil Mechanics? A DEM Study

ABSTRACTThe contact network of granular materials is often divided into strong and weak subnetworks, which play different roles in micromechanics. Within the strong contact network, there exists the largest connected component, that is, the largest cluster, which may connect system boundaries and could be the most important structure in force transmission of the whole system. This paper concerns the particular features of the largest cluster in the strong contact network of granular materials, by considering the combining effects of loading path and particle shape. A series of true triaxial tests with various intermediate principal stress ratios are conducted for granular assemblies of different shaped particles using the discrete element method (DEM). Both the macroscopic stress–strain responses and the microscopic topological changes of the contact network are investigated. It is found that both particle shape and loading path will influence the shear strength and the topological features of the strong network. The threshold (the ratio to the average force) is used to distinguish the strong and weak networks, and a critical threshold can be identified by comparing the network‐based metrics. The largest cluster within the strong network approaching the critical threshold can span the boundaries in each direction with minimum contacts, which occupies a small portion of particles and contacts but transmits a considerable portion of the applied stress. In addition, the similar contribution weight of the largest cluster to the deviatoric stress is identified for granular materials with different particle shapes.

Impact of Fluid Balance on the Development of Lung Injury.

The pathophysiological relationship between fluid administration, fluid balance, and mechanical ventilation in the development of lung injury is unclear. To quantify the relative contribution of mechanical power and fluid balance in the development of lung injury. Thirty-nine healthy female pigs, divided into four groups, were ventilated for 48 hours with high (~18J/min) or low (~6J/min) mechanical power; and high (~4L) or low (~1L) targeted fluid balance. We measured physiological variables e.g., end-expiratory lung gas volume, respiratory-system mechanics, gas-exchange and hemodynamics, and pathological variables, i.e., lung weight, wet-to-dry ratio, and histology score of lung injury. End-expiratory lung gas volume, respiratory system elastance, strain and oxygenation significantly worsened in the two groups assigned to receive high fluid balance, irrespective of the mechanical power received. All four groups had similar lung weight (i.e., lung edema), lung wet-to-dry ratio and pathological variables. Animals with higher fluid balance developed more ascites, which was associated with a decrease in end-expiratory lung gas volume. In conclusion, our study did not detect a significant difference in lung injury between high and low mechanical power. Some damage is directly attributable to mechanical power, while additional injury appears to result indirectly from high fluid balance, which reduces end-expiratory lung gas volume, with ascites playing an important role in this process.

Application of Virtual Planning and Three-Dimensional Printing Guide in Surgical Management of Craniosynostosis

This study aims to elaborate on the application of virtual surgical planning (VSP) and 3-dimensional printing guides (3DP) in the surgical management of craniosynostosis and compare their surgical outcomes with traditional surgical planning (TSP). A retrospective review of patients who underwent cranial vault and cranio-orbital remodeling procedures for craniosynostosis was performed. VSP was accomplished by establishing a 3D model from DICOM format CT data. Patients' skull shape were adjusted according to the age-matched standard skull, cutting and reconstruction guides were printed using a 3D printer. The change of anthropometric cranial indices, the so-called degree of correction, before and after the operation was evaluated to assess the surgical outcome. The TSP group serves as the historical control group, and surgical outcomes were compared among propensity-matched patients in the VSP+3DP group. In total, 120 patients with various presentations of craniosynostosis were operated on from 2005 to 2024, and 77 received surgery with VSP+3DP. There were 35 matched pairs. Both had 17 male patients with similar age and body weight. A greater degree of correction was achieved in the VSP+3DP group (9.75% vs. 6.36%, P value=0.016) with less intraoperative blood loss (144.57 mL vs. 296.86 mL, P value<0.001), shorter operation time (335.23 minutes vs. 348.34 minutes, P value=0.501), and hospital stay (10.31 days vs. 12.63 days, P value=0.009). With virtual surgical planning and 3D printing guides, precise preoperative planning, efficient intra-operative correction of cranial deformity, and objective surgical outcome assessment are achieved in craniosynostosis operations.

The One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass is a suitable alternative to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass in patients with BMI > 50 kg/m2 : a propensity-score matched analysis.

Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 50 kg/m2 is more challenging for the bariatric surgeon, because of a thicker abdominal wall, more visceral fat, and hepatomegaly by liver steatosis. This study aims to give an overview of 5-year outcomes after OAGB and RYGB in these patients in terms of weight loss, remission of comorbidities, and complications. This retrospective single-center cohort study focused on patients with BMI ≥ 50 kg/m2 undergoing OAGB or RYGB between 2015 and 2017 at a non-academic teaching hospital in the Netherlands. A 1:1 propensity-score matched (PSM) comparison was conducted. In total, 158 patients underwent OAGB and 32 patients RYGB. After performing a 1:1 PSM, we obtained two nearly identical cohorts of 28 patients. Follow-up data after five years was available in 79% of the patients after OAGB and 82% of the patients after RYGB. Both procedures resulted in equal weight loss, remission of comorbidities, and short-term complications. More minor mid-term complications were seen after OAGB (50% versus 18%; p=0.011) due to reflux complaints (50% versus 7%; p<0.001). The number of patients with major mid-term complications did not differ (7% after OAGB versus 14% after RYGB; p=0.388). The only major complication after OAGB was conversion to RYGB due to reflux in 7.1% of the patients. In contrast, major complications following RYGB were more diverse. Both procedures resulted in similar weight loss, remission of comorbidities, short-term complications, and major mid-term complications; making OAGB a suitable alternative to RYGB for patients with a BMI > 50 kg/m2.

Effects of Acorns on Fatty Acid Composition and Lipid Metabolism in Adipose Tissue of Yuxi Black Pigs.

The objective of the present research was the examination of how varying proportions of an acorn diet affects the deposition of subcutaneous fat and the composition of fatty acids (FAs) in Yuxi black pigs. Ninety pigs (with a balanced sex ratio and a similar weight 99.60 ± 2.32 kg) were stochastically assigned to the control group (CON) and the dietary acorn experimental groups (AEG). The CON was fed basal diets and the AEG1, AEG2, AEG3, and AEG4 groups were provided with dietary regimens comprising twenty, thirty, forty, and fifty per cent acorns, respectively. Each group consisted of six pigs, with three replicates. The breeding cycle was four months. The results demonstrated that, in comparison with the CON group, the lean meat rate was significantly increased in all test groups (p < 0.05), while in backfat thickness, loin eye area, carcass weight and slaughter rate was no significant difference (p > 0.05). The serum TC/HDL (total cholesterol divided by high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol) and TG/HDL (Triglyceride divided by high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol) levels in the AEG1 and AEG2 groups were significantly lower than the CON group (p < 0.05). There was no significant effect on the composition of FAs (p > 0.05). The number of fat cells in subcutaneous back fat and subcutaneous abdominal fat was significantly increased, and the area of fat cells was decreased (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the levels of ATGL and HSL expression in the subcutaneous back fat, as well as ACC, FAS, ATGL, PPARγ, and HSL expression in the subcutaneous abdominal fat, were significantly increased in the AEG2 group compared to the CON group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the expression of ACC, FAS, FABP4, PPARγ, C/EBPα, and FAS/HSL in the subcutaneous back fat, as well as FABP4, C/EBPα, and FAS/HSL in the subcutaneous abdominal fat, were significantly lower in the AEG2 group compared to the CON group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, it has been found that a 30% acorn diet can inhibit subcutaneous fat deposition and enhance the nutritional value of pork and the health of Yuxi black pigs.

A Meta-Learning Approach to Mitigating the Estimation Bias of Q-Learning

It is a longstanding problem that Q-learning suffers from the overestimation bias. This issue originates from the fact that Q-learning uses the expectation of maximum Q-value to approximate the maximum expected Q-value. A number of algorithms, such as Double Q-learning, were proposed to address this problem by reducing the estimation of maximum Q-value, but this may lead to an underestimation bias. Note that this underestimation bias may have a larger performance penalty than the overestimation bias. Different from previous algorithms, this article studies this issue from a fresh perspective, i.e., meta-learning view, which leads to our Meta-Debias Q-learning. The main idea is to extract the maximum expected Q-value with meta-learning over multiple tasks to remove the estimation bias of maximum Q-value and help the agent choose the optimal action more accurately. However, there are two challenges: (1) How to automatically select suitable training tasks? (2) How to positively transfer the meta-knowledge from selected tasks to remove the estimation bias of maximum Q-value? To address the two challenges mentioned above, we quantify the similarity between the training tasks and the test task. This similarity enables us to select appropriate “partial” training tasks and helps the agent extract the maximum expected Q-value to remove the estimation bias. Extensive experiment results show that our Meta-Debias Q-learning outperforms SOTA baselines drastically in three evaluation indicators, i.e., maximum Q-value, policy, and reward. More specifically, our Meta-Debias Q-learning only underestimates \(1.2*10^{-3}\) than the maximum expected Q-value in the multi-armed bandit environment and only differs \(5.04\%-5\%=0.04\%\) than the optimal policy in the two states MDP environment. In addition, we compare the uniform weight and our similarity weight. Experiment results reveal fundamental insights into why our proposed algorithm outperforms in the maximum Q-value, policy, and reward.

Effect of dietary supplementation of yeast culture Saccharomyces cerevisiae in lactating female goats.

This study was designed to investigate the effects of adding a novel yeast culture, Saccharomyces cerevisiae refermented sorghum distiller's dried grains with solubles (SSDDGS), to the diets of lactating female goats on lactation performance and lamb growth performance. We divided 10 lactating Dazu black goats of similar age, weight, and offspring into two groups: one fed a pelleted diet with 50 g/day SSDDGS (ET), and the other without SSDDGS as a control (EC) for 7 weeks. We monitor the weight changes of each goat and collect blood and milk samples from experimental ewes at specific times for hormone and milk composition determination. We use ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) to detect metabolites in the serum of lactating ewes. Our results showed that SSDDGS supplementation significantly reduced female goats' average daily weight loss during weeks 2-4 of lactation and increased serum IGF-1 and prolactin levels at week 4 (p < 0.05). SSDDGS supplementation in early lactation significantly increased milk protein, lactose, and ash content (p < 0.05). UPLC-MS/MS analysis showed that SSDDGS changed the levels of 58 metabolites in the serum of lactating goats. These metabolites were mainly involved in the sohingolipid signaling pathway, and cysteine, methionine, and sphingolipid metabolism. In summary, Yeast culture SSDDGS reduced weight loss, enhanced milk quality, and modified metabolic profiles in early lactation goats, providing insight into the potential regulatory role and mechanism of yeast culture in lactation female goats.

Effects of organic acid blends on the growth performance, intestinal morphology, microbiota, and serum lipid parameters of broiler chickens

Organic acids have emerged as promising alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters in poultry production. The present study was conducted to determine the effects of organic acids blends v.i.z. Acidapure liquid and Acidapure powder supplementation on the growth performance, gut health, gut microbiota, and serum lipid profile of broiler chickens. A total of 120-day-old chicks with similar live body weights were randomly divided into four groups. Each group was further divided into 3 replicates, and each further divided into three replicates of ten bird. The birds in Group 1 (T1) were fed a basal diet supplemented with plain drinking water, those in Group 2 (T2) received basal feed supplemented with Acidapure powder (1 kg/MT feed) and plain drinking water, those in Group 3 (T3) received basal feed supplemented with Acidapure liquid in the drinking water (0.2 ml/l water), and those in Group 4 (T4) received basal feed supplemented with Acidapure powder (1 kg/MT feed) and Acidapure liquid in the drinking water (0.2 ml/l water). Acidapure powder and Acidapure liquid were added to the feed and water of the broilers from 0–42 days of life. The results showed that compared with the control (T1), supplementation with Acidapure powder and liquid in broiler chickens for 42 days increased (P < 0.05) ABW and ADG and reduced FCR in the treatment groups (T2, T3 and T4). At d 21 and 42, all forms of Acidapure supplement increased the VH and CD in the jejunum and ileum and reduced the pH of the ileum. Compared with the control (T1), the combination of Acidapure powder and liquid (T4) increased the gene expression of the tight junction proteins Claudin-1 and Zona Occludense 1 (ZO-1). Compared with the control, Acidapure supplementation reduced the cecal coliform count and total viable count (TVC) and decreased the serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In conclusion, Acidapure, as a blend of organic acids, effectively enhances the growth performance and gut health of broilers, making it a viable and safe alternative to traditional antimicrobial growth promoters.

A novel piglet model of esophageal stricture following variable segmental esophageal resection and re-anastomosis.

Esophageal strictures following esophageal atresia repair are a source of significant morbidity. To test new therapeutic approaches, we designed a piglet model of esophageal stricture by resecting variable lengths of esophagus with subsequent re-anastomosis. This study describes the model and validates its physiologic impact by blinded analysis of the weight gains of the piglets. A total of 24 two-week old Pietrain piglets had esophageal resections performed, ranging from 0 to 5 cm, with the goal of inducing postoperative esophageal strictures. Postoperative body-weights were evaluated by repeated analysis of variance followed by pairwise group-comparisons based on estimated marginal means. In addition, body weight was modeled by linear-mixed model regression. Different resection lengths were compared. The esophagi were evaluated postmortem for stricture. Of 24 operated piglets, 23 reached the endpoint, and 90% developed an esophageal stricture that was radiologically visible in a contrast study, as well as appreciable macroscopically in the necropsy. We found differences in pre- and postoperative body weights for all piglets (F (1, 18) = 298.54, p < 0.001), but no differences between resection lengths (F (4, 18) = 0.36, p = 0.837). Our model of postoperative esophageal stricture offers the opportunity to investigate potential treatments for strictures associated with esophageal atresia, since it reliably induces strictures and results in minimal loss of animals. The similar body weight gain in all groups indicates that stricture is mainly the result of esophageal resection and re-anastomosis, regardless of the length of the resected segment.

Establishment of a mouse model of ovarian oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide.

Oxidative stress, resulting from environmental changes, significantly affects female fertility. Developing a mouse model to study oxidative stress lays the groundwork for research into human reproductive health and livestock fertility. In this study, we established and evaluated an oxidative stress model by administering hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to mice. ICR mice of similar age (7-8 weeks old) and average body weight (31.58 ± 1.12 g) were randomly assigned to four groups (A, B, C, and D). Group A served as the control and was injected with a saline solution, while groups B, C, and D received saline solutions containing 0.75%, 1.50%, and 3.0% H2O2, respectively, over one week. We measured the body weights of all mice before and after the experimental period. Our findings showed that the average body weight of mice in groups A and B increased, while groups C and D experienced weight loss. Group C showed a significantly lower average weight gain compared to groups A and B, and group D exhibited an even more pronounced reduction in weight gain. Although group D had a high mortality rate, there was no significant difference in mortality rates among groups B, C, and D. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased with higher concentrations of H2O2, with a significant difference noted between groups C and A. Catalase (CAT) activity in group B was significantly higher than in group A, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in group C was notably elevated compared to groups A and B. Conversely, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in group C was significantly lower than in both group A and group B. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining revealed changes in ovarian morphology and follicle dynamics. The percentage of atretic follicles in group C was significantly higher than in the control group, and group D had a significantly lower total number of healthy follicles compared to the untreated group. Increased H2O2 content resulted in a reduction of ovary size and an irregular appearance in group D. Based on our findings, treatment with 1.50% H2O2 effectively established an oxidative stress model in mice within 1 week. This model serves as a valuable reference for future clinical studies on oxidative stress and reproductive disorders in female animals and humans.

Does the timing of postprandial glucose monitoring affect the obstetric and neonatal outcomes in patients with gestational diabetes? A prospective study comparing 1 and 2-h postprandial monitoring.

The aim of this study was to examine the obstetrical and neonatal outcomes in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) who had postprandial glucose monitoring 1 vs. 2 h following meals. In this prospective cohort study, we included patients with GDM who were referred to our medical center between July 2019 and June 2021. Patients chose the timing of postprandial glucose monitoring based on their own preferences. Obstetrical and neonatal outcomes, as well as patient satisfaction, were compared between patients who performed postprandial glucose monitoring 1 and 2 h after meals (PPG1 vs. PPG2). The primary outcome was birth weight. The study was powered to detect a 250 g increase in birth weight. Overall, 99 patients were included: 50 in the PPG1 group and 49 in the PPG2 group. Baseline characteristics were comparable between the groups. Neonates in the PPG1 and PPG2 groups had similar birth weights (3319 ± 355 vs. 3319 ± 520 g, respectively, p = 0.99). Glycemic control, mode of delivery, gestational age at delivery, and satisfaction rates were also similar between the study groups. In patients with GDM, performing1 vs. 2 h following meals resulted in similar obstetrical and neonatal outcomes and similar satisfaction rates. We therefore recommend counseling patients to choose either strategy based on their personal preference.

Effect of energy levels on liver oxidative state and gut microbiota of laying hens fed a low-protein diet

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to investigate effect of energy levels on liver oxidative state and gut microbiota of laying hens fed a low-protein diet.MethodsA total of 216 laying hens (57-week-old with similar body weight) were randomly divided into 3 groups: low-energy and low-protein diet (LL: 10.73 MJ/kg), middle-energy and low-protein diet (ML: 11.15 MJ/kg), and high-energy and low-protein diet (HL: 11.57 MJ/kg) groups. The experiment lasted for 10 weeks.ResultsResults showed that the liver MDA level was higher, while the liver T-AOC level was lower in the HL group compared with LL and ML groups. The dominant phyla in LL group, ML group, and HL group were Bacteroidetes (38.08%, 39.69%, and 40.93%) and Firmicutes (16.78%, 18.37%, and 17.44%). At the genus level, Alistipes (9.45%) was abundant in the LL group. Bacteroides (14.46%), Phocaeicola (4.48%) and Precotella (2.95%) were highest in the ML group. Parabacteroides (1.78%) and Desulfovibrio (1.02%) were highest in the HL group. At the species level, Bacteroides fragilis (0.42%) is lowest in LL group, Desulfovibrio piger increased with the increase of energy. MDA was significantly and positively correlated with Methanobrevibacter woesei between ML group and HL groups (p &amp;lt; 0.05). T-AOC was highly significantly and positively correlated with Phocaeicola sp. Sa1YUN3 (p &amp;lt; 0.01) .DiscussionThis study found that high-energy and low-protein diets might cause liver oxidative stress by gut microbes in the laying hens.