Supplementation Period Research Articles

The Effect of Short-Term NAD3® Supplementation on Circulating Adult Stem Cells in Healthy Individuals Aged 40-70 Years.

Objective This study aimed to assess the impact of acute and short-term supplementation with NAD3®, a theacrine-containing supplement, on circulating adult stem cell numbers in a healthy male and female population aged 40-70 years. Methods This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study with 12 participants randomized to receive either NAD3® or a placebo for seven days. Blood samples were collected after an overnight fast, before and after the seven-day supplementation period, and one and two hours after the final supplement dose. Using flow cytometry, circulating stem cells, including lymphocytoid CD34+stem cells (CD45dimCD34+), stem cells associated with vascular maintenance and repair (CD45dimCD34+CD309+), CD34+stem cells linked to a progenitor phenotype (CD45dimCD34+CD309neg), circulating endothelial stem cells (CD45negCD31+CD309+), and mesenchymal stem cells (CD45negCD90+) were quantified. Results Acute NAD3®supplementation did not result in the mobilization of stem cells from the bone marrow. However, seven days of daily NAD3®supplementation resulted in selective changes in circulating stem cell numbers. A significant time*treatment interaction was observed for CD45dimCD34+cells (p=0.04) and CD45dimCD34+CD309negcells (p=0.04), indicating a decrease in cell numbers with supplementation. There was also a trend toward an increase in circulating endothelial cells (p=0.08) with seven days of NAD3®supplementation. Conclusion Short-term NAD3® supplementation demonstrated an effect on the quantity of bone marrow-derived stem cells in circulation. The study suggests that this theacrine-containing supplement may play a role in modulating adult stem cell populations, emphasizing the potential impact of NAD3® on regenerative processes. Further research with extended supplementation periods and larger sample sizes is warranted to elucidate the functional consequences of these changes and explore the therapeutic implications for age-related declines in stem cell function.

Effect of β-alanine on the athletic performance and blood amino acid metabolism of speed-racing Yili horses.

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of supplemental β-alanine feeding on the athletic performance of Yili horses involved in speed racing, focusing on alterations in plasma free amino acid patterns pre and post exercise. Additionally, the research aimed to evaluate the effects of carnosine on the plasma acid-base buffering capacity and antioxidant levels in these horses. Twelve Yili horse stallions, averaging 3 years in age and 346.50 ± 21.39 kg in weight, were chosen and randomly divided into two groups: a control group and a test group, each comprising six horses. The control group received a supplementation of 300 mg/kg BW/day of α-alanine, while the test group received 300 mg/kg BW/day of β-alanine. This supplementation regimen was maintained for a 30-day supplementation trial period, under identical feeding and management conditions. Throughout the trial, the horses participated in the 1,000 Speed Race, and three distinct blood samples were gathered for assessing plasma free amino acids, blood gases, biochemical parameters, and antioxidant parameters. The outcomes indicated a considerable enhancement in the 1,000 m exercise performance of the speed racing Yili horses in the test group compared to the control group, showcasing a noteworthy improvement of 12.01%, with the test group completing the race 13.29 s faster. Notably, the α-alanine content in the plasma of the control group Yili horses remained higher than that of the test group, demonstrating a consistent increasing trend. By contrast, the plasma β-alanine content was notably higher in the test group than in the control group. Over the course of the supplementation period, plasma β-alanine exhibited an escalating and then stabilizing trend in the test group, whereas in the control group, although β-alanine content also increased, the trend was less pronounced. The plasma levels of histidine and carnosine showed minimal variance between the two groups. Overall, the test group of Yili horses exhibited slightly higher plasma levels of histidine and carnosine compared to the control group. The addition of β-alanine to their diet for a duration of 30 days notably affected the plasma levels of amino acids both pre- and post-exercise in speed-racing Yili horses. Furthermore, β-alanine demonstrated an inhibitory effect on the catabolism of these horses' bodies during high-intensity exercise. Ten marker amino acids, including valine, leucine, β-alanine, isoleucine, carnosine, 3-methyl-histidine, lysine, ethanolamine, argnine, and taurine, displayed statistically significant changes. β-alanine notably increased the blood glucose levels of Yili horses and played a role in expediting the restoration of blood gas levels post-exercise. Moreover, in the test group of Yili horses, the levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and total antioxidant capacity significantly increased both before and after the race, while the content of malondialdehyde, an oxidation product, exhibited an extremely significant decrease immediately after the race. These outcomes suggest that the addition of β-alanine significantly augmented antioxidant levels during high-intensity exercise in Yili horses. Consequently, it reduced post-exercise injuries and accelerated the recovery process after exercise.

Effects of Probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HJLP-1 on Growth Performance, Selected Antioxidant Capacity, Immune Function Indices in the Serum, and Cecal Microbiota in Broiler Chicken.

This research study aimed to investigate the effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) on growth performance, oxidation resistance, immunity, and cecal microbiota in broilers. This work classed three hundred and sixty 1-day-old male broilers into three groups randomly, including a control group (CON, basal diet) and antibiotic (ANT, 75 mg kg-1 chlortetracycline added into basal diet) and probiotic groups (LP, 5 × 108 CFU kg-1Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HJLP-1 contained within basal diet). Animals were then fed for 42 days, and each group comprised eight replicates with 15 broilers. Compared with CON, L. plantarum supplementation significantly improved the average daily weight gain (AWDG) (p < 0.05) while reducing the feed-gain ratio over the entire supplemental period (p < 0.05). Birds fed L. plantarum had markedly lower serum ammonia and xanthine oxidase levels (p < 0.05) than those in the ANT and CON groups. Significant improvements (p < 0.05) in superoxide dismutase, catalase, and serum IgM and IgY contents in broilers fed L. plantarum were also observed when compared with those in the CON and ANT groups. Both L. plantarum and antibiotics decreased pro-inflammatory factor IL-1β levels significantly (p < 0.05), while only L. plantarum promoted anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 levels in the serum (p < 0.05) compared with CON. L. plantarum (p < 0.05) increased acetic acid and butyric acid concentrations in cecal contents when compared to those in CON and ANT. Among the differences revealed via 16S rRNA analysis, L. plantarum markedly improved the community richness of the cecal microbiota. At the genus level, the butyric acid-producing bacteria Ruminococcus and Lachnospiraceae were found in higher relative abundance in samples of L. plantarum-treated birds. In conclusion, dietary L. plantarum supplementation promoted the growth and health of broilers, likely by inducing a shift in broiler gut microbiota toward short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria. Therefore, L. plantarum has potential as an alternative to antibiotics in poultry breeding.

Impact of a short-term nitrate and citrulline co-supplementation on sport performance in elite rowers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial.

Citrulline (CIT) and beetroot extract (BR) have separately shown benefits in rowing performance-related outcomes. However, effects of combined supplementation remain to be elucidated. The main purpose of this research was to study the effects of 1week of daily co-supplementation of 3.5g BR (500mg NO3-) plus 6g CIT on aerobic performance, maximal strength, and high-intensity power and peak stroke in elite male rowers compared to a placebo and to a BR supplementation. 20 elite rowers participated in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial completing 1week of supplementation in each group of study: Placebo group (PLAG); BR group (BRG); and BR + CIT group (BR-CITG). 3 main physical tests were performed: aerobic performance, Wingate test and CMJ jump, and metabolic biomarkers and physiological outcomes were collected. The Wingate all-out test showed no between-condition differences in peak power, mean power, relative power, or fatigue index (P > 0.05), but clearance of lactate was better in BR-CITG (P < 0.05). In the performance test, peak power differed only between PLAG and BR-CITG (P = 0.036), while VO2peak and maximum heart rate remained similar. CMJ jumping test results showed no between-condition differences, and blood samples were consistent (P > 0.200). Supplementation with 3.5g of BR extract plus 6g of CIT for 7days improved lactate clearance after Wingate test and peak power in a performance test. No further improvements were found, suggesting longer period of supplementation might be needed to show greater benefits.

Impact of ginger supplementation on serum PGE2, COX2, and IL-6 in response to exhaustive exercise in female taekwondo athletes

Abstract Inflammation and muscle soreness sometimes occur after high-intensity exercise in some athletes. This study aimed to determine the effect of a ginger supplement period on serum cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and interleukin (IL)-6 in response to exhaustive exercise in female taekwondo athletes. In this semi-experimental study, 24 semi-professional female taekwondo athletes (mean age 19.75 ± 2.03 years, height 160 ± 6 cm, weight 53.99 ± 7.49 kg) were selected voluntarily. Subjects were randomly assigned to the ginger supplement + exhaustive (GE + EE) and exhaustive exercise (EE) groups. 24 doses of 2,000 mg of pure ginger supplement (3 days/week for 8 weeks) were taken in the morning and evening (4 capsules of 500 mg: 2 in the morning and 2 in the evening). Then Bruce’s test was performed as an exhaustive exercise. Blood samples were collected in two stages before and after the intervention, and serum levels of COX2, PGE2, and IL-6 were measured using the Elisa method. T-tests and analysis of variance with repeated measures were used to examine intra-group changes and compare between groups from pre-test to post-test using SPSS version 25 software. The results showed a significant increase in the level of serum COX2 (), and no significant increase in the level of serum PGE2 () and IL-6 () in the EE group compared to baseline levels. Also, there was a significant decrease in the level of serum PGE2 (), COX2 (), and IL-6 () in the group of GE + EE compared to baseline levels. In addition, there was a significant difference between the group of GE + EE and the EE (). GE + EE group, in comparison with the EE group, partially reduced inflammation. Taking 8-weeks of ginger supplementations can effectively reduce muscle inflammation following exhaustive exercise in female taekwondo athletes.

A double-blinded, placebo-controlled, cross-over pilot trial in healthy men to study the effects of Angelica gigas herbal supplement on prostate cancer–relevant inflammatory cytokines.

170 Background: The ethanol extract of the root of Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) dose-dependently inhibits animal models of prostate cancer. Multi-omic analyses have implicated immune and anti-inflammatory responses in the anti-cancer action. In our single dose-PK study (NCT02114957) in healthy volunteers with AGN dietary supplement CognI.Q, we observed a near doubling of the natural killer (NK) mRNA signature in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) at 24 h after dosing while the inflammatory cytokine IL-8 mRNA was decreased by one half over the pre-dose baseline. Given NK incapacitation and inflammation have been linked to prostate cancer, the current trial (NCT03630328) was designed to assess safety and to delineate CognI.Q-specific immune and anti-inflammation functions. Methods: We used a double-blinded, placebo-controlled and crossover trial design to monitor hepatic and renal safety metrics based on Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) and compare the immune cell and cytokine responses to CognI.Q and placebo. Supplement period of 3 weeks was followed with a 2-week washout period. We employed the Ella microfluidic multiplex immunoassay to evaluate select plasma cytokines. Results: Fourteen healthy men completed the trial protocol. Physical examination on study visit days did not reveal any adverse events. Blood CMP monitoring detected abnormal hepatic integrity values in three subjects, all in the second washout period and were attributed to use of anti-allergy medication, an herbal tea for tooth ache, and excessive alcohol, respectively. Analysis of plasma cytokines detected corresponding elevation of MIG, CCL4, CXCL10 and IL-8 with these hepatic damage events. With the exclusion of these subjects or time point, the plasma cytokine measurement did not reveal a significant response to CognI.Q supplement vs. placebo. Conclusions: CognI.Q supplement at the current recommended dose (400 mg, twice per day) did not impair hepatic integrity or renal function, nor did it modulate select plasma cytokines in healthy men. Phase I dose-escalation trials should be implemented to establish safety profile and assess immune and inflammation modulatory effects of AGN supplement beyond the current dose. Clinical trial information: NCT03630328 .

Different Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation vs. Blood Lipid Profiles—A Study on a Rat Model

Dyslipidemia is a serious condition affecting an increasing number of people, and thus, preventive measures, including supplementation, are being developed. We aimed to compare the effect of linseed oil, its ethyl esters and fish oil supplementation on the serum lipid profiles of rats fed a high-fat diet. Wistar rats were divided into nine groups. Four of them were fed a high-fat diet for the whole experiment, four groups were fed a high-fat diet before the supplementation period and then the control one with supplements, and one was fed a control diet without supplements. The whole experiment lasted 12 weeks. A significant reduction in blood triglycerides, total cholesterol and the LDL fraction was noted in supplemented groups compared to the controls, especially in groups supplemented with ethyl esters of linseed oil and linseed oil compared to fish oil groups. The results were also more beneficial in groups where, in addition to supplementation, there was also a diet change from a high-fat diet to a control diet during the supplementation period. We may conclude that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, combined with a healthy diet, may be a good way of preventing or alleviating dyslipidemia.

Effects of supplementation of live and heat-treated Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactis CECT 8145 on glycemic and insulinemic response, fecal microbiota, systemic biomarkers of inflammation, and white blood cell gene expression of adult dogs.

The popularity of functional ingredients such as probiotics and postbiotics has increased as pet owners seek ways to improve the health quality and longevity of their pets. Limited research has been conducted regarding the use of probiotics and postbiotics and their effects on canine health. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of daily supplementation of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT 8145, in both live probiotic (PRO) and heat-treated postbiotic (POST) forms, on fecal fermentative end-products and microbiome, insulin sensitivity, serum gut hormones, oxidative stress, inflammatory biomarkers, and white blood cell gene expression of adult dogs. Eighteen adult beagles and 18 adult English pointers were used in a double-blinded placebo-controlled parallel group design, with 12 animals per group (6 English pointers and 6 beagles). The study began with a 60 d adaptation period followed by a 90 d period of daily supplementation with either PRO, POST, or placebo (maltodextrin; CON). Longitudinal assessment of body weight, body condition score, and pelvic circumference did not differ among dietary supplements (P > 0.05). Throughout the experimental period, fecal scores did not differ (P > 0.05); however, fecal pH was lower (P = 0.0049) in the dogs fed POST compared with CON. A higher fecal concentration of propionate (P = 0.043) was observed in dogs fed PRO and POST when compared with CON. While PRO and POST supplementation were associated with changes in bacterial composition at the family and genus level, the overall richness and diversity of the microbiome were not significantly affected. Functional analysis of the metagenome also suggests that PRO and POST supplementation induced potentially beneficial changes in the abundance of pathways involved in pathogenicity, amino acid biosynthesis, and DNA repair. No differences in glycemic or insulinemic responses were observed among the groups (P > 0.05). Dogs supplemented with PRO had a higher (P < 0.05) mean white blood cell leptin relative fold gene expression compared with groups POST and CON. Serum metabolites and complete blood cell counts were within normal ranges and all dogs remained healthy throughout the study. Together, these data suggest that the PRO and POST can safely be supplemented for dogs. Moreover, the results of this study support further investigation of the role of PRO and POST in supporting parameters related to gut health and hormonal regulation.

Beet supplementation mitigates post-exercise inflammation.

This study investigated the efficacy of a mixed beet-based supplement (BEET) versus placebo (PL) in countering inflammation during recovery from 2.25 h of intensive cycling in 20 male and female cyclists. A multi-omics approach was used that included untargeted proteomics and a targeted oxylipin panel. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover design was used with two 2-week supplementation periods and a 2-week washout period. Supplementation periods were followed by a 2.25 h cycling bout at close to 70%VO2max. The BEET supplement provided 212 mg of nitrates per day, 200 mg caffeine from green tea extract, 44 mg vitamin C from Camu Camu berry, B-vitamins from quinoa sprouts (40% Daily Value for thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B6), and 2.5 g of a mushroom blend containing Cordyceps sinensis and Inonotus obliquus. Six blood samples were collected before and after supplementation (overnight fasted state), immediately post-exercise, and at 1.5 h-, 3 h-, and 24 h-post-exercise. The 2.25 h cycling bout increased plasma levels of 41 of 67 oxylipins detected. BEET supplementation significantly increased plasma nitrate (NO3 -) and nitrite (NO2 -) (sum, NO3 - + NO2 -) concentrations (interaction effect, p < 0.001) and two anti-inflammatory oxylipins [18-hydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid (18-HEPE) and 4-hydroxy-docosahexanoic acid (4-HDoHE)]. The untargeted proteomics analysis identified 616 proteins (458 across all times points), and 2-way ANOVA revealed a cluster of 45 proteins that were decreased and a cluster of 21 that were increased in the BEET versus PL trials. Functional enrichment supported significant BEET-related reductions in inflammation-related proteins including several proteins related to complement activation, the acute phase response, and immune cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. Intake of a BEET-based supplement during a 2-week period was linked to higher plasma levels of NO3 - + NO2 -, elevated post-exercise levels of two anti-inflammatory oxylipins, and a significant decrease in a cluster of proteins involved in complement activation and inflammation. These data support that 2-weeks intake of nitrate from a mixed beet-based supplement moderated protein biomarkers of exercise-induced inflammation in athletes.

Short term creatine loading improves strength endurance even without changing maximal strength, RPE, fatigue index, blood lactate, and mode state.

Creatine is consumed by athletes to increase strength and gain muscle. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of creatine supplementation on maximal strength and strength endurance. Twelve strength-trained men (25.2 ± 3.4 years) supplemented with 20 g Creatina + 10g maltodextrin or placebo (20g starch + 10g maltodextrin) for five days in randomized order. Maximal strength and strength endurance (4 sets 70% 1RM until concentric failure) were determined in the bench press. In addition, blood lactate, rate of perceived effort, fatigue index, and mood state were evaluated. All measurements were performed before and after the supplementation period. There were no significant changing in maximal strength, blood lactate, RPE, fatigue index, and mood state in either treatment. However, the creatine group performed more repetitions after the supplementation (Cr: Δ = +3.4 reps, p = 0.036, g = 0.53; PLA: Δ = +0.3reps, p = 0.414, g = 0.06), and higher total work (Cr: Δ = +199.5au, p = 0.038, g = 0.52; PLA: Δ = +26.7au, p = 0.402, g = 0.07). Creatine loading for five days allowed the subjects to perform more repetitions, resulting in greater total work, but failed to change the maximum strength.

Supplementation with a cranberry extract favors the establishment of butyrogenic guilds in the human fermentation SHIME system.

Background: Proanthocyanidins (PAC) and oligosaccharides from cranberry exhibit multiple bioactive health properties and persist intact in the colon post-ingestion. They display a complex bidirectional interaction with the microbiome, which varies based on both time and specific regions of the gut; the nature of this interaction remains inadequately understood. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the impact of cranberry extract on gut microbiota ecology and function. Methods: We studied the effect of a cranberry extract on six healthy participants over a two-week supplementation period using the ex vivo artificial fermentation system TWIN-M-SHIME to replicate luminal and mucosal niches of the ascending and transverse colon. Results: Our findings revealed a significant influence of cranberry extract supplementation on the gut microbiota ecology under ex vivo conditions, leading to a considerable change in bacterial metabolism. Specifically, Bifidobacterium adolescentis (B. adolescentis) flourished in the mucus of the ascending colon, accompanied by a reduced adhesion of Proteobacteria. The overall bacterial metabolism shifted from acetate to propionate and, notably, butyrate production following PAC supplementation. Although there were variations in microbiota modulation among the six donors, the butyrogenic effect induced by the supplementation remained consistent across all individuals. This metabolic shift was associated with a rise in the relative abundance of several short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacterial genera and the formation of a consortium of key butyrogenic bacteria in the mucus of the transverse colon. Conclusions: These observations suggest that cranberry extract supplementation has the potential to modulate the gut microbiota in a manner that may promote overall gut health.

Post-marketing surveilance study of creatine-guanidinoacetic acid safety in healthy adults.

A post-marketing surveillance study assessed the adverse events and possible risk of elevated homocysteine levels after the supplementation with creatine-guanidinoacetic acid mixture in apparently healthy adults. The participants were recruited through social media platforms and online discussion boards, with side effects and total plasma homocysteine (T-Hcy) levels evaluated regularly during a supplementation period of 6 months. Thirthy eight individuals (n = 38, 34.2% female) completed the evaluation period and were included in the final analyses. Serious side effects were absent. Two participants (5.3%) reported transitional nausea during the introductory weeks of the supplementation; no participants stopped the treatment. Baseline T-Hcy levels were 11.6 ± 3.1 μmol/L (95% confidence interval [CI], from 10.6 to 12.6). The intervention induced a mild reduction in T-Hcy levels across the monitoring period (p = 0.028), with T-Hcy levels after 1, 2, 3, and 6 months were 10.4 ± 3.0 μmol/L, 10.6 ± 2.9 μmol/L, 10.1 ± 2.7 μmol/L, and 9.3 ± 2.8 μmol/L, respectively. These findings suggest the overall tolerability of creatine-guanidinoacetic mixture in healthy adults, with homocysteine-increasing risk of no concern.

Effects of Vitamin B 12 Supplementation on Cognitive Function in Survivors of Hemorrhagic Stroke

Background: Hemorrhagic stroke often leads to significant cognitive deficits in survivors. Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in neurological functions, suggesting its potential in cognitive recovery post-stroke. This retrospective cohort study explored the impact of Vitamin B12 supplementation on cognitive function in hemorrhagic stroke survivors, a subject that holds substantial importance in stroke rehabilitation and patient care. Objective: The primary objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of Vitamin B12 supplementation in improving cognitive function, as measured by MMSE and MoCA scores, in adults who have recently survived a hemorrhagic stroke. Methods: The study included 75 adults diagnosed with hemorrhagic stroke within the last six months. Participants were administered a daily oral dose of 1000 mcg of Vitamin B12 for three months. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) at the start and end of the supplementation period. Additionally, Vitamin B12 levels were measured at baseline and after three months to gauge the physiological uptake of the supplement. Results: The study observed significant improvements in cognitive function, with the MMSE score increasing by an average of 2.2 (p=0.0463) and the MoCA score by 5.8 (p=0.0410). There was also a notable average increase of 400 pg/mL in Vitamin B12 levels (p&lt;0.05). The supplementation was generally well-tolerated, with only 8% of participants reporting minor adverse effects, a rate not statistically significant (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion: The study provides preliminary evidence that Vitamin B12 supplementation may positively impact cognitive function in survivors of hemorrhagic stroke. However, due to the study's limitations, further extensive research is necessary to corroborate these findings and to deepen our understanding of the role of Vitamin B12 in post-stroke cognitive recovery.

Preterm-Born Young Women Have Weaker Hand Grip Strength Compared to Their Full-Term-Born Peers.

Prematurity has been linked to lower muscular fitness and increased morbidity across the human lifespan. Hand grip strength is widely used as a measure of muscle strength. Previous studies have shown inconsistent results regarding the role of vitamin D in hand grip strength. Here, we investigated hand grip strength and the effects of a yearlong vitamin D supplementation in healthy preterm-born young adults. We recruited 38 young adults born preterm at either ≤32 weeks' gestation or <34 weeks' gestation and weighing <1500 g, as well as 39 gender- and age-matched controls, for this study. Anthropometric measurements, hand grip strengths, and vitamin D concentrations were recorded. These investigations were repeated after a yearlong vitamin D supplementation intervention. There was a significant difference in the age- and gender-specific hand grip strength ranks between the preterm- and full-term-born young adults: 57.9% and 30.7%, respectively, were below average (p = 0.009). In the preterm-born group, the females had significantly lower hand grip strengths compared to their full-term-born peers, with a mean difference of -3.46 kg (95% CI: -6.68 to -0.247; p = 0.035). In a linear regression analysis, the preterm-born female adult height was negatively associated with hand grip strength (R2 = 0.24, F (1.43) = 13.61, p < 0.001). The vitamin D concentrations were increased after the supplementation period, with no association with hand grip strength. According to our results, preterm-born young females are at risk for lower muscle strength, independent of their current vitamin D status.

Dietary supplementation with β-mannanase and probiotics as a strategy to improve laying hen performance and egg quality.

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of β-mannanase and probiotic on the performance, serum biochemistry, gut morphometric traits, and fresh egg quality of laying hens. A total of 120 cages, housing light-weight laying hens (36 weeks old), were randomly assigned to four different treatments. These treatments included a control group fed non-supplemented diets; diets supplemented with 300 g/ton of beta-mannanase; diets supplemented with 50 g/ton of probiotic; or diets containing both 300 g/ton of β-mannanase and 50 g/ton of probiotics. The trial spanned a duration of 26 weeks and was divided into three productive phases, each lasting 28 days. The inclusion of β-mannanase resulted in a significant improvement in the laying rate by 11% (p < 0.05) compared to the control treatment. Similarly, the addition of probiotics also enhanced the laying rate by 7% (p < 0.05), as well as the supplementation with combined additives (11.5%). Combined additives showed an increase in egg masses, and additive association improved by 13.9% (p < 0.001) in contrast to the control treatment. Overall, β-mannanase and combined additives used during the supplementation period resulted in improvements in the weight of fresh eggs. These benefits were observed after a period of 14 weeks without supplementation (p < 0.05). Furthermore, significant differences were observed in the serum biochemistry and egg masses of birds that were fed diets containing both additives (β-mannanase + probiotics) compared to the control group. Parameters such as uric acid, total cholesterol, and triglycerides displayed notable variations. The villi height: crypt depth showed differences with combined additives (β-mannanase + probiotics). The β-mannanase improved specific gravity, yolk height, length, and pH, and yolk color traits compared to the control treatment. The use of probiotics helped to improve yolk height, pH, and color score. Besides, combined additives (β-mannanase + probiotics) improve yolk height, length, weight, pH, and better traits in yolk color. Hence, incorporating β-mannanase and probiotics into laying hen diets proves to be a highly effective strategy for enhancing laying rate and overall health status, while simultaneously elevating certain quality attributes of fresh eggs.

Effect of Short-Term Glycerin Supplementation on Follicle Dynamics and Pregnancy Rate in Goats

We investigated the effects of short-term glycerin supplementation on follicular dynamics and pregnancy rates. Twenty-five goats with synchronized estrus and follicular waves with three injections of a prostaglandin analog every 7 days were used. Two days after the second injection, 13 goats were randomly chosen to receive an oral drench of 200 mL of glycerin (glycerin group [GG], n = 13) for 6 days, whereas the remaining 12 animals received an oral drench of saline (control group [CG], n = 12). At 24 and 48 h after the third injection, the goats mated. The animals were kept in a collective stall and received the same diet. The GG had higher blood glucose levels during the supplementation period than the CG (76.4 ± 1.9 vs. 50.3 ± 0.7 mg/dL; p &lt; 0.01). The glycemic peak was recorded 4 h after the glycerin administration (102.3 ± 5.1 mg/dL) and remained higher than that in the CG 8 and 12 h later. The GG goats had a higher rectal temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate than the CG goats and showed an increase in these parameters 4, 8, and 12 h after glycerin drenching. The GG animals also exhibited increased stress, urination, and drinking behaviors and reduced rumination. The ultrasonographic analysis showed a higher number of follicles with a diameter &gt;4 mm (p &lt; 0.05) and a greater follicular diameter (p &lt; 0.01) in the waves before and after ovulation induction. The pregnancy and twinning rates and litter size at parturition were not different between the groups. Short-term supplementation with glycerin positively affects ovarian stimulation but has no effect on the reproductive response after mating.

Coconut oil ameliorates behavioral and biochemical alterations induced by D-GAL/AlCl3 in rats

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative condition marked by cognitive impairment. Although coconut oil has been shown to be potentially beneficial in reducing AD-related cognitive deficits, information on its mechanism of action is limited. Thus, we investigated the effects of coconut oil on spatial cognitive ability and non-cognitive functions in a rat model of AD induced by G-galactose (D-GAL) and aluminum chloride (AlCl3), and examined the changes in synaptic transmission, cholinergic activity, neurotrophic factors and oxidative stress in this process. The AD model was established by administering D-GAL and AlCl3 for 90 days, while also supplementing with coconut oil during this time. Cognitive and non-cognitive abilities of the rats were evaluated at the end of the 90-day supplementation period. In addition, biochemical markers related to the pathogenesis of the AD were measures in the hippocampus tissue. Exposure to D-GAL/AlCl3 resulted in a reduction in locomotor activity, an elevation in anxiety-like behavior, and an impairment of spatial learning and memory (P < 0.05). The aforementioned behavioral disturbances were observed to coincide with increased oxidative stress and cholinergic impairment, as well as reduced synaptic transmission and levels of neurotrophins in the hippocampus (P < 0.05). Interestingly, treatment with coconut oil attenuated all the neuropathological changes mentioned above (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that coconut oil shows protective effects against cognitive and non-cognitive impairment, AD pathology markers, oxidative stress, synaptic transmission, and cholinergic function in a D-GAL/AlCl3-induced AD rat model.

#149 : Improved Embryo Quality of Infertile Women at Different Ages by Oral Administration of an Antioxidant Mixture

Background and Aims: Oxidative stress is known to affect oocyte/embryo quality. In the previous meeting of ASPIRE, an antioxidant mixture (AOM) developed by us was shown to improve oocyte/embryo quality. Since oxidative stress is related to aging of body, AOM may be able to support the oocyte/embryo quality of women at advanced ages. We therefore examined the effects of AOM administration on the oocyte/embryo quality of women at different ages. Method: AOM supplement was given orally for at least one and half month (at most 7 months) to infertile women who had participated in at least one IVF/ICSI program and whose quality of embryos was poor or fair. After the supplementation period, oocyte-pickup was carried out, and either IVF or ICSI was subjected to the patients. Then, the data of oocyte maturity, fertilization, developmental capacity, and bioavailability of embryos (No. of embryos transferred and cryopreserved) were collected retrospectively. Results: The effects of AOM on the embryo quality of women at different ages were compared (Age groups were: [Formula: see text] 30yr; 31 [Formula: see text] 35yr; 36 [Formula: see text] 40yr; 41yr[Formula: see text]). In all groups, oocyte retrieval and maturation rates were slightly increased. More evidently, the developmental capacity, especially blastocyst formation, was significantly improved by AOM in all groups ([Formula: see text] 30yr: 20.0% vs 63.6%; 31 [Formula: see text] 35yr; 30.8% vs 68.9%; 36 [Formula: see text] 40yr: 36.4% vs 60.8%; 41yr[Formula: see text]: 36.4% vs 52.9%). Accordingly, the number of embryos cryopreserved was markedly increased ([Formula: see text] 30yr: 0.3±0.6 vs 1.8±2.4; 31 [Formula: see text] 35yr; 0.7±0.9 vs 1.4±1.2; 36 [Formula: see text] 40yr: 0.6±0.8 vs 1.1±1.0; 41yr[Formula: see text]: 0.0±0.0 vs 0.6±0.9), indicating that embryo quality in all groups was improved. Conclusion: Although it was more beneficial for younger women, AOM administration was very effective to improve oocyte/embryo quality in all age groups. Our present results strongly suggest that AOM can ameliorate age-dependent decrease of embryo quality.

Fetal Programming and Its Effects on Meat Quality of Nellore Bulls.

This work aimed to evaluate the effects of prenatal nutritional stimulation at different pregnancy stages on carcass traits and meat quality in bovine progeny. For this purpose, 63 Nellore bulls, born from cows submitted to three nutritional plans, were used: not programmed (NP), which did not receive protein supplementation; partially programmed (PP), which had protein-energy supplementation (0.3% of mean body weight of each batch) only in the final third of pregnancy; and full programming (FP), which received supplementation (0.3% of mean body weight of each batch) throughout pregnancy. The averages of parameters were submitted to the ANOVA, and the supplementation periods, which were different when p value < 0.05, were compared. Carcass weights and rib eye area (REA) did not differ between treatments (p > 0.05), but subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT) showed a tendency (p = 0.08) between groups. For lipids and marbling, no differences were found (p > 0.05). In the analyses of maturation time and shelf life, no difference was observed between treatments. However, there was a tendency between treatments at 14 days of maturation time for cooking loss (CL) (p = 0.08). Treatments did not affect shear force in the progenies (p > 0.05). Fetal programming had no effect on the meat quality of Nellore bulls.

The effect of prepartum synthetic zeolite supplementation on the eating, lying and activity behaviours of grazing dairy cows

ABSTRACT This study determined the effect of feeding synthetic zeolite A prepartum to reduce periparturient hypocalcaemia risk on the eating, lying, and activity behaviours of multiparous grazing dairy cows. Animals were randomly allocated to either a Zeolite treatment group (n = 21; individually fed 500 g/d zeolite for two weeks prepartum) or a Control group (n = 22). Behaviour data obtained from accelerometers were analysed to determine the effects of treatment, parity (Parity 2−3 vs. 4+), and their interactions during 3 periods: PRE (−21 to −3 d), PERI (−2–2 d) and POST (3–28 d) relative to the day of calving (day 0). Parity 2–3 Zeolite cows ate for 18 min/day less than Parity 2–3 Control cows PRE. Zeolite-fed cows also ate for 24 min/day less than Control cows during the PERI period. There were no treatment differences in lying time or activity PRE or PERI, but Zeolite-fed cows spent more time lying POST. Regardless of treatment, Parity 2–3 cows were generally more active and ate for longer than Parity 4 + cows. Our results suggest zeolite may subtly decrease appetite or alter eating behaviour during the supplementation period, particularly in younger cows, and may improve cow comfort postcalving.