Dietary Supplementation Research Articles

Toxic Effects of Cadmium Exposure on Hematological and Plasma Biochemical Parameters in Fish: A Review.

Cadmium (Cd) is a non-essential trace element that poses significant toxic effects on fish. This review focuses on hematological and plasma biochemical parameters as key indicators of fish health under Cd exposure. Hematological parameters, such as red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, and hematocrit (Ht), were selected for their critical role in oxygen transport and their sensitivity to Cd-induced disruptions, which often result in anemia and impaired oxygen delivery to tissues. Mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) provide further insights into erythropoiesis and hemoglobin synthesis, both of which are essential for assessing Cd toxicity. Plasma biochemical parameters, including calcium, magnesium, glucose, cholesterol, total protein, and liver enzymes such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), are crucial for understanding ionic balance, metabolic regulation, and organ function, especially in fish exposed to Cd. These biomarkers offer a comprehensive view of the physiological stress and organ damage caused by Cd toxicity. This review synthesizes literature findings on the toxic effects of Cd on these parameters. It also discusses potential mitigation strategies, including dietary supplementation with antioxidants and trace elements, to counteract the harmful effects of Cd exposure.

Effects of dietary primary bile acids on the growth, intestinal morphology, gene expression, serum metabolites and intestinal microbiota in pearl gentian grouper fed a high lipid diet

The grouper aquaculture industry flavors high lipid diets for economic reasons, yet this inevitably produces negative effects on the growth performance and intestinal function. Bile acids have been extensively reported to mitigate the negative effects on fish fed a high lipid diet, but it remains unclear whether this mechanism is bile acid type dependent. Therefore, an eight-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the response of growth and intestinal health parameters in pearl gentian grouper Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♂ × E. lanceolatus♀ fed with high lipid diets to different types of bile acids. A high lipid diet (diet HL) containing 167 g/kg crude lipid served as the control diet, and three of primary bile acids glycocholic acid, taurocholic acid, and cholic acid were added at a dose of 900 mg/kg to generate the bile acid diets HBG, HBT, and HBC, respectively. Results revealed that dietary supplementation with glycocholic acid, taurocholic acid, or cholic acid does not affect the feed intake and growth of pearl gentian grouper fed a high lipid diet, while increasing the relative abundance of intestinal opportunistic pathogens such as Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas in this species. Dietary supplementation with glycocholic acid or cholic acid decreases muscle layer thickness and villus height, while increases intestinal injury score. Grouper fed with taurocholic acid showed higher villus width and serum antioxidant enzyme activity, along with lower intestinal injury score and serum lipid peroxidation level. For the protein and gene involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, S6K1 signaling, and bile acids metabolism, grouper fed with taurocholic acid exhibited an increase in the protein expression of PP70 and the mRNA expression of nrf2, pi3k, pdk1, tsc2, akt, mtorc1, fxr and tgr5. Moreover, the serum metabolites can be significantly influenced by the intestinal bacteria. Overall, dietary supplementation of 900 mg/kg taurocholic acid is recommended when feeding high lipid diets to grouper.

Physiological changes in the regulation of calcium and phosphorus utilization that occur after the onset of egg production in commercial laying hens.

At the onset of egg production, physiological changes governing calcium and phosphorus utilization must occur to meet demands for medullary bone formation and eggshell mineralization. The objective of this study was to identify these changes and determine if they are influenced by dietary supplementation with 1α-hydroxycholecalciferol (AlphaD3™, Iluma Alliance). Commercial laying hens fed either a control or AlphaD3-supplemented diet beginning at 18 weeks of age were sampled at 18 (n = 8) and 31 weeks (n = 8/diet) to evaluate mRNA expression associated with calcium and phosphorus utilization in kidney, shell gland, ileum, and liver, circulating vitamin D3 metabolites, and bone quality parameters in humerus, tibia, and keel bone. Though diet did not heavily influence gene expression at 31 weeks, several significant differences were observed between 18- and 31-week-old hens. Heightened sensitivity to hormones regulating calcium and phosphorus homeostasis was observed at 31 weeks, indicated by increased parathyroid hormone receptor 1, calcium-sensing receptor, calcitonin receptor, and fibroblast growth factor 23 receptors in several tissues. Increased renal expression of 25-hydroxylase and vitamin D binding protein ( DBP ) at 31 weeks suggests kidney participates in local vitamin D3 25-hydroxylation and DBP synthesis after egg production begins. Biologically active 1,25(OH)2D3 was higher at 31 weeks, with correspondingly lower inactive 24,25(OH)2D3. Increased expression of plasma membrane calcium ATPase 1 and calbindin in kidney, shell gland, and ileum suggests these are key facilitators of calcium uptake. Elevated renal inorganic phosphorus transporter 1 and 2 and sodium-dependent phosphate transporter IIa at 31 weeks suggests increased phosphorus excretion following hyperphosphatemia due to bone breakdown for eggshell formation. Diet did influence bone quality parameters. Bone mineral density in both humerus and tibia was higher in AlphaD3-supplemented hens at 31 weeks. Tibial bone mineral content increased between 18 and 31 weeks, with AlphaD3-supplemented hens increasing more than control hens. Moreover, control hens exhibited diminished tibial breaking strength at 31 weeks compared to hens at 18 weeks, while AlphaD3-supplemented hens did not. Together, these results indicate supplementation with AlphaD3 enhanced bone mineralization during the medullary bone formation period and elucidate the adaptive pathways regulating calcium and phosphorus utilization after the onset of lay.

Dietary counseling plus omega-3 supplementation in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder: results of a randomized wait-list controlled pilot trial (the ‘EASe-GAD Trial’)

ABSTRACT Objectives Clinical evidence suggests that nutrition interventions can significantly improve symptoms of major depressive disorder; however, the effect on clinical anxiety symptoms in individuals with anxiety disorders has not been studied. The primary objective of the present study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a nutrition intervention. The secondary objectives included assessing changes in anxiety symptom severity, diet quality, self-efficacy, mindful eating, quality of life, and biomarkers. Methods This study was a randomized, wait-list controlled pilot trial delivering a 12-week, biweekly dietary counseling intervention and omega-3 supplementation to 50 adult women with generalized anxiety disorder. Questionnaires and blood work were completed at baseline, after the waiting period, and after the intervention. Results 443 individuals expressed interest within eight months; 50 met the criteria for enrollment. The mean number of sessions attended was 6.4. Final questionnaires were completed by 46 participants. Eighty-four percent of participants strongly agreed with the statement ‘My experience during this study was positive’. The mean anxiety symptom severity score in the intervention group was 26.2 (95% CI 22.94–29.48) at baseline and 11.0 (95% CI 8.05–13.87) at week 12. The mean diet quality score was 7.2 (95% CI 6.32–8.10) and 10.5 (95% CI 9.55–11.49) at baseline and week 12, respectively. Among the waitlist participants, the mean baseline anxiety score was 29.3 (95% CI 24.73–33.91) and 26.8 (95% CI 22.09–31.56) at week 12. Discussion This study was feasible and acceptable. Participation in the intervention was associated with a decrease in anxiety symptoms. These findings lay the foundation for large-scale studies. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05573672.

Use of black pepper oil in growing-quail diets and its impact on growth, carcass measurements, intestinal microbiota, and blood chemistry

Abstract. Supplements derived from plants are utilized to maintain and promote the growth efficiency of animals. The use of black pepper oil (BPO) has recently generated significant scientific interest, primarily because of its potential beneficial effects on both humans and animals. The goal of the current study was to determine how dietary BPO supplementation affected growth performance, characteristics of growing quails' immunity, antioxidant status, and carcass yield. A total of 240 growing quails (1 week old) were divided into five equal groups, each with 36 birds (four replicates of 12 each). A basal diet containing no BPO (0 g kg−1) was given to the first group, and the second, third, and fourth groups were given a diet that was supplemented with BPO (0.4, 0.8, 1.2, and 1.6 g kg−1, respectively). In comparison to a control group, quails' diets that were supplemented with 0.8 g BPO kg−1 showed improvements in final live body weight, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio of 10.68 %, 12.6 %, and 18.2 %, respectively. During the whole study period (1 to 5 weeks), quails fed diets with 0.8 g BPO consumed less feed than the other groups and control. Due to BPO treatment, there were no statistically significant changes in any of the carcass parameters. BPO-supplemented groups had significantly elevated plasma levels of albumin and globulin than control groups (P < 0.05), but the albumin/globulin ratio was reported to be significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in birds supplemented with diets containing BPO compared to the control group. When compared to the control, the liver enzyme activity (aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT)) in blood plasma was reported to be significantly increased in the quails given 0.4 and 0.8 g BPO kg−1. Glutathione and catalase activities were significantly higher in the group given diets supplemented with BPO (1.2 g kg−1) than they were in the control group. In comparison to the control, the supplementation of BPO in the diets of quail significantly enhanced (P < 0.05) the lipid profile in the plasma, moreover decreasing the caecal content pH (P < 0.05). In comparison to the control, the populations of lactobacilli, coliform, Salmonella spp., and Escherichia coli in the caecum significantly decreased in the BPO-supplemented groups (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary BPO supplementation in Japanese quails' diet can boost growth performance and antioxidant indices, enhance lipid profile and carcass traits, and reduce intestinal infections.

The Effect of Humic Acid Supplementation on Selected Ruminal Fermentation Parameters and Protozoal Generic Distribution in Cows

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of humic acid (HA) supplementation on the rumen fermentation and protozoal community in the rumen. For this purpose, four ruminally cannulated Simmental cows were randomly assigned in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design experiment to study the effect of HA dietary supplementation on feed utilization, rumen fermentation, and protozoal community for 84 days. The basal diet (BD) was composed of meadow hay (68.2% of dry matter [DM]), maize silage (17% of DM), and granulated feed mixture (14.9% of DM). There were four treatments, including the BD without additives (control diet, H0), the BD supplemented with 50 g HA/cow/day (H50 treatment), the BD supplemented with 100 g HA/cow/day (H100 treatment), and the BD supplemented with 200 g HA/cow/day (H200 treatment). HA supplementation did not affect the total or individual volatile fatty acid concentrations, the total protozoa, or the ruminal pH. However, HA at the dosage of 50 g/cow/day increased the NH3-N concentration and fecal nitrogen compared to the control (p < 0.001). HA supplementation also significantly impacted the abundance of individual protozoal genera in the rumen. The results of this study suggest that HA has potential in ruminants as a natural feed additive and may play a role in nitrogen metabolism and stabilizing the protozoal community without adverse effects on rumen fermentation.

Dietary supplementation of distiller's grains yeast cultures improves performance and immunity by altering the intestinal flora of broilers.

Distiller's grains are a by-product of liquor production with a higher yield than liquor. Developing and utilizing distiller's grains well could alleviate the problem of scarce feed resources. Our present experiment was conducted with 6000 yellow-feathered broilers to study the effects of adding distiller's grains yeast cultures (DGYC) to the diet on growth performance and immunity of broilers. The broilers were divided into five groups, receiving different DGYC concentrations during two stages. Growth performance, intestinal microorganisms and immune organ development were measured. The results showed that groups B and D, supplemented with medium and high concentrations of DGYC, respectively, had significantly improved growth performance compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Group D also showed higher immune organ index (P < 0.01), increased serum total protein, high-density lipoprotein and immunoglobulin levels (P < 0.05) and lower levels of low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, interleukin 1β and tumor necrosis factor α (P < 0.05). Hematoxylin and eosin staining confirmed improved immune organ development in group D (P < 0.05). Furthermore, in high-concentration group D, levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA; acetic, propionic and butyric acids) in cecal chyme were significantly increased (P < 0.05). The richness (Chao1) and diversity (Faith-pd) index of cecal microbiota were significantly higher in group D compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The microbial composition in group D differed from the control and medium-concentration group B. Seven bacteria (Clostridia-UCG-014, UCG-009, DTU089, UCG-010, Campylobacter, Harryflintia, Shuttleworthia) showed significant differences (P < 0.05). After DGYC feeding, DTU089 decreased, while other SCFA-producing bacteria increased (P < 0.05). Subsequently, KEGG function and corresponding signal pathway predictions were performed on bacteria with significant differences. Group D exhibited a higher enrichment of immune function pathways (P < 0.01) and showed significant changes in four immune signaling pathways according to the signal pathway heatmap. Our data suggest that high concentrations of DGYC can be applied as a feed additive for broilers that promotes growth, improves intestinal health and enhances certain immunity. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of Dietary Copper on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Immunity in Juvenile Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)

This study evaluated the optimal dietary copper (Cu) levels and their effects on growth performance, body composition, and antioxidant capacity in juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). A total of 360 fish (initial average weight (1.67 ± 0.01 g) and initial average length (2.5 ± 0.2 cm)) were randomly assigned to 18 tanks, each containing 20 fish and six dietary Cu concentrations: 2.13 (control), 3.00, 3.66, 4.58, 4.64, and 5.72 mg/kg. The results indicated that fish receiving 3.00 mg/kg of Cu exhibited the best final body weight (FBW), weight gain rate (WGR), and specific growth rate (SGR), with a significantly reduced feed conversion ratio (FCR). While body composition (moisture, protein, lipid, and ash) remained consistent across groups, plasma total protein (TP) levels increased with Cu supplementation. Elevated triglycerides (TG) and albumin (ALB) were noted at 4.64 and 5.72 mg/kg, respectively, while glucose (GLU) levels decreased with an increase in dietary Cu. Antioxidant capacity, assessed via hepatic glutathione (GSH) and the activities of catalase (CAT), and showed significant improvements at 3.00 and 3.66 mg/kg Cu, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) showed the highest activity at a dietary Cu level of 5.72 mg/kg. Additionally, the expressions of tgf-β and tnf-α genes were significantly upregulated at a dietary Cu level of 5.72 mg/kg, while il-8 and il-10 genes were upregulated at dietary 3.66 mg/kg. The expression of nrf2 was significantly upregulated in response to a dietary Cu level of 3.66 mg/kg compared to the control group, and the expression of the keap1 gene was significantly upregulated in the fish fed with 5.72 mg/kg of dietary Cu. The results indicated that appropriate dietary supplementation could promote the growth performance and improve the antioxidant status the immunity of largemouth bass, and the optimal Cu requirement for FCR and SGR were approximately 3.10 mg/kg and 3.00 mg/kg, respectively.

Impact of Methionine and Tryptophan Supplementation on Silk Gland Weight and Tissue Somatic Index in Eri Silkworm (Samia ricini Donovan)

This study evaluated the impact of methionine and tryptophan supplementation on the silk gland weight and Silk Gland Tissue Somatic Index (SGTSI) of eri silkworm, Samia ricini Donovan, a key species in vanya silk production. Freshly collected castor leaves were fortified with methionine and tryptophan solutions at various concentrations and fed to silkworm larvae from the third instar until maturity. The treatments significantly enhanced silk gland weight and SGTSI compared to the control. The highest silk gland weight (1.52g) and SGTSI (25.16%) were observed in larvae fed with tryptophan at 500 ppm (T6), followed by methionine at 500 ppm (T3) with 1.47g and 24.61%, respectively. Control larvae exhibited the lowest values (1.07g and 19.43%). Combination treatments of methionine and tryptophan showed less improvement compared to individual treatments. These findings suggest that dietary supplementation with specific amino acids could enhance silk gland development and silk production.

Influence of dietary lysolecithin on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, haemato-biochemistry, and oxidative status of broiler birds

This study examined the effect of dietary lysolecithin on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, haematobiochemistry, and oxidative status in finisher broiler chickens. In a completely randomized design (CRD), 300 21-day-old Chikun strain chicks were randomly allocated to 30 pens in which they were allotted to 5 dietary treatments as follows TI (0 g /100kg), T2 (100 g /100kg), T3 (200 g /100kg), T4 (300 g /100kg), T5 (400 g /100kg) of feed with 6 replicates pens of 10 during the finisher phase (28 days). Results showed that dietary supplementation with lysolecithin increased the final body weight (FBW) (quadratic P = 0.0178), body weight gain (BWG) (quadratic P = 0.0232), whilst it decreased the total feed intake (TFI) (linear P = 0.0104). Similarly, it linearly increased the retention of dry matter (P = 0.0324); crude protein (P = 0.0029), crude fibre (P = 0.0147), and crude fat (P = 0.0002). Furthermore, it increased the superoxide dismutase (linear P < 0.001), glutathione peroxidase (quadratic P < 0.001), glutathione (linear P < 0.001), whilst it decreased malondialdehyde (linear P = 0.003), without affecting (P > 0.05) the haematobiochemistry parameters. Therefore, dietary lysolecithin could be supplemented up to 400 g /100 kg without compromising performance, nutrient retention, haemato-biochemistry, and oxidative status in finisher broiler diets.

Importance of Supplementation in Vegan and Vegetarian Diets for Adults

Introduction and purpose Vegan and vegetarian diets are popular due to health, ethical, and ecological benefits, but they risk nutrient deficiencies. This article reviews research on supplementation to meet the nutritional needs of adults on these diets. It provides recommendations for different life stages, including pregnancy, aging, and physical activity, and highlights the risks of excessive or inadequate supplementation, stressing the need for personalized dietary approaches.. Material and method A systematic review of the past decade's literature focused on peer-reviewed articles from databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. It included studies on adults adhering to vegan or vegetarian diets, evaluating supplementation's effects on nutrition and health. The review encompassed observational studies, interventions, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews, using keywords such as "vegan diet," "vegetarian diet," "supplementation," "nutrient deficiencies," and "adult health." State of knowledge Research shows that well-planned vegan or vegetarian diets can be healthy for adults, but often need supplementation to prevent nutrient deficiencies. Clinical studies confirm the efficacy of supplements. Specific groups, like pregnant and lactating women and those with regular physical activity, may need extra vitamins and minerals. Excessive supplementation poses health risks, so a personalized approach considering individual needs, health status, age, and lifestyle is crucial. Conclusions A well-balanced vegan or vegetarian diet, supported by appropriate supplementation, can be beneficial for the health of adults. A personalized approach to supplementation is essential, taking into account specific nutritional needs, pregnancy, health status, age, and lifestyle. Regular monitoring of nutritional status and adjusting supplementation to the body's current needs is crucial for maintaining optimal health.

Dietary Addition of Selenium Attenuates Cadmium-Induced Liver Injury in Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) by Reducing Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis

In order to investigate the effects of selenium (Se) against cadmium (Cd) toxicity, 180 healthy grass carp were separated into three groups and fed diets containing 0.147 (control group), 0.562, and 1.044 mg/kg of selenium Yeast throughout 60 days. In grass carp livers, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, antioxidant enzyme activities, and apoptosis-related gene expression were examined. As a result of acute exposure to cadmium, MDA content decreased significantly. With time, catalase (CAT), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities changed. The relative transcript levels of heavy metal scavenging genes abcc2 and mt2 were significantly reduced. The relative levels of expression of jnk, bax, caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 in apoptosis-associated factors were significantly elevated after cadmium exposure. Selenium-supplementation downregulated the expression of apoptosis-related factors. As compared to the control group, liver cells supplemented with selenium had a significantly lower apoptotic index. Comprehensive analysis showed that dietary selenium supplementation significantly attenuated cadmium-induced peroxidative damage and apoptosis in liver by increasing GSH-Px activity, and that cadmium toxicity could be alleviated by the addition of yeast selenium.

The dietary supplementation of Sargassum fusiforme can effectively alleviate high-fat diet induced metabolic abnormalities

Sargassum fusiforme, a brown seaweed widely consumed as a culinary delicacy and medicinal herb in East Asian countries, contains multiple bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-obesity properties. This suggests that its dietary consumption could help mitigate metabolic diseases induced by high-fat diet (HFD). To test this hypothesis, we initially analyzed the nutritional components of the macroalga, and evaluated its acute oral toxicity and long-term safety. Subsequently, we explored the impacts of its dietary intake on HFD-fed mice. Additionally, 16S rRNA sequencing was employed to further elucidate the mechanism underlying the protective effects of this macroalga against HFD-induced metabolic abnormalities. Our results revealled that S. fusiforme has a desirable nutrient profile, characterized by rich carbohydrates, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and carotenoids, and is also highly safe for consumption. Its dietary intake remarkably alleviated HFD-induced metabolic disorders. Analysis of gut microbiota showed that HFD consumption increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes and decreased Bacteroidetes. This trend was further exacerbated by S. fusiforme supplementation, resulting in a higher Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio compared to both the control and HFD groups. At the genus level, Muribaculum, Lactobacillus, Clostridia_UCG_014, Clostridium_sp, Acetatifactor, Eubacterium_coprostanoligenes, and IS_44 (from family Nitrosomonadaceae) were significantly enriched in the mice supplemented with S. fusiforme. These findings support the potential use of S. fusiforme as a functional food to counteract HFD-induced metabolic dysbiosis.

Comparative effects of curcumin, nano curcumin and their combination on reproductive traits and spawning performance of red tilapia (Oreochromis Niloticus X O. Mossambicus)

Curcumin, the main polyphenol component of turmeric powder, has garnered increasing attention as an effective supplement in fish diets. A comparative trial was conducted to evaluate the impacts of dietary supplementation with different forms of curcumin (free, in combination, or nanoparticles) on hemato-biochemical parameters, reproductive capacity, and related gene expressions of red tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus x O. mossambicus) broodstock. Fish (n = 168) were fed an isonitrogenous (30% CP), isocaloric (18.72 MJ kg − 1) diet containing basal diet (Control), 60 mg kg-1 of either free curcumin (Cur), curcumin/nano-curcumin blend (Cur/NCur), or nano-curcumin (NCur) for 56 days. Red tilapia broodstock (155 ± 5.65 g) were stocked at a male: female ratio of 1:3. Blood samples and gonads were collected to assess hemato-biochemical parameters, reproductive capacity, and related gene expression at the end of the feeding trial. The results indicated that the values of hematological parameters (RBCs, WBCs, hemoglobin), total protein, albumin values, and reproductive hormones (T, LH, and FSH) were significantly increased, while liver function enzymes were decreased in the NCur group (P < 0.05). Reproductive performances (GSI, gonad maturation, total number of fry per female) were significantly improved in the NCur group compared with those in other groups (p < 0.05). The expression of reproductive genes (CYP19A1A, FSHR, LHR, FOXL2A, ESR1, ESR2A, and PGR) were significantly up‐regulated in the gonads of fish fed NCur. Collectively, feeding red tilapia diets containing NCur led to noticeably better results followed by Cur/NCur blend, then free Cur compared to the control diet. These results indicate the superiority of NCur over its free or blended form, suggesting that a diet containing about 60 mg/kg of NCur is beneficial for enhancing hemato-biochemical parameters, improving reproductive performance, and enhancing the gonadal architecture of red tilapia.

Optimized ceramic membrane-based method for efficient and acid-free rice protein preparation from alkaline extracts

Rice protein, stands out as a high-quality plant-based protein, suitable for dietary supplementation and food processing. Traditional methods, involving alkaline extraction and acid precipitation, are challenged by the extensive use of chemicals and the difficulty in desalination. This study proposed a novel separation method that utilizes ceramic membranes for direct alkali filtration, eliminating the formation of salts by acid neutralization. The membrane pore size and the operating parameters such as transmembrane pressure, cross-flow velocity, and pH were optimized to enable a high flux (>80 L m−2·h−1) and favorable protein rejection (>95 %) while permitting the removal of excess alkali. Additionally, the effects of non-protein substances, e.g., starch, present in the alkaline extract on the separation performance were explored. Subsequently, an optimized strategy for starch removal was proposed, involving the concentration of the alkali extract using an ultrafiltration membrane, followed by enzymatic hydrolysis of starch and diafiltration to eliminate the residuals of starch hydrolysates and alkali. Under stabilization of protein particles by carboxymethyl cellulose, rice protein with a uniform particle size of 25 nm and a purity of over 80 % was produced. The direct removal of alkali from alkali extracts of rice by ceramic membranes presents a promising strategy for producing rice protein with high purity and reduced aggregation degree, enabling better functionalities such as solubility than the conventional alkali-extraction and acid-precipitation method.

Low-Fat Diet Alleviates Perimenopausal Symptoms by Reducing Methylation Levels of PDE4C and NPAS2 Genes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Perimenopausal syndrome (PMS) significantly impacts the quality of life in women during the perimenopausal phase. Despite being the primary treatment, hormone replacement therapy has notable limitations. Consequently, dietary interventions, particularly low-fat diets, have garnered international attention as an alternative. Methods: The prospective Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), approved by the Ethics Committee of the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, enrolled 62 perimenopausal women. Participants were divided into two groups: a low-fat diet group and a menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) group, with interventions lasting eight weeks. Both groups underwent assessments for perimenopausal symptoms, lipid profile, and oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS), before and after the interventions. Additionally, DNA methylation levels of the PDE4C and NPAS2 genes were measured in 10 women from the low-fat diet group before and after the intervention. Results: Both the low-fat diet and hormone supplementation improved specific perimenopausal symptoms, reduced specific lipid levels, and had a positive effect on oxidative stress markers. The low-fat diet proved more effective than hormone replacement in improving the serum lipid profile and also resulted in reductions in methylation at specific sites of the PDE4C and NPAS2 genes. Conclusions: A low-fat diet may alleviate perimenopausal symptoms, lower lipid levels, and alter gene methylation sites. Clinical Trial Registration: The study has been registered on https://www.chictr.org.cn/ (registration number: ChiCTR2400084007).

Effect of dietary supplementation of Monotheca buxifolia leaf powder on the growth performance of broiler chickens

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of Monotheca buxifolia leaf powder on the growth performance of broiler chickens. A total of 250 -1-day old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly distributed into five treatments with five replicates and each replicate consists of ten birds. Prior to the arrival of birds, basal diet adequate in all nutrients was formulated according to the requirement of birds by Nutritional Research Council in 1994. Birds in treatment one was fed basal diet without Monotheca buxifolia leaf powder, those in treatment two, three, four and five were fed same diet with Monotheca buxifolia leaf powder at 100 g, 200 g, 300 g and 400 g respectively. The experiment lasted for 42 days and birds had unrestricted access to clean water and feed. A completely randomized experimental design was adopted and all management practices was strictly adhered to. Result on the phytochemical content of Monotheca buxifolia leaf powder flavonoids (863.2 mg/g), phenols (511.8 mg/g) and terpenoids (102.3 mg/g) were the most prominent compounds followed by saponins (72.56 mg/g), tannins (62.34 mg/g), alkaloids (41.88 mg/g) and steroids (30.41 mg/g). Average daily weight gain and average daily feed intake values which varied from 41.24 – 51.37 g/b and 103.7 – 107.5 g/b were higher among birds fed Monotheca buxifolia leaf powder (treatment two, three, four and five) relative to treatment one (P&lt;0.05). Similarly, feed conversion ratio whose value ranged from 2.09 – 2.50 were significantly (P&lt;0.05) influenced by the treatment. In conclusion, feeding broilers Monotheca buxifolia leaf powder up to 400 g/kg diet does not pose any detrimental effect on the performance of birds.

The Influence of Dietary Supplementation with Dried Olive Pulp on Gut Microbiota, Production Performance, Egg Quality Traits, and Health of Laying Hens.

This study examines the dietary effect of dried olive pulp (OP) on the overall performance, egg quality, health, and gut microbiota of laying hens during a 36-week trial. A total of 180 Isa Brown layers, aged 23 weeks, were assigned to 15-floor pens and divided into three feeding groups (CON, OP4, and OP6) based on the dietary level of OP. Egg quality and biochemical parameters were assessed in 39- and 59-week-old hens. Fecal samples were collected for microbiota analysis. Data were analyzed with an Analysis of Variance. The percentage of broken eggshells was found to be 15-34% lower in the OP groups compared to the CON groups. At 59 weeks of age, a significant reduction in shell thickness was observed in the CON eggs compared to the OP eggs (p < 0.05). At 39 weeks of age, OP6 eggs had the darkest yolk color of all groups (p < 0.05). Fecal microbial diversity was affected only by hens' age. However, an enrichment in bacterial species belonging to the genera Megasphaera and Megamonas was found in the OP groups at 59 weeks of age. Our results demonstrate that OP feeding beneficially affects egg quality and promotes the proliferation of bacteria involved in the degradation of complex plant compounds, potentially contributing to the overall health of the gut microbiota.

Vitamin D in Cancer Prevention and Treatment: A Review of Epidemiological, Preclinical, and Cellular Studies.

Inhibition of human carcinomas has previously been linked to vitamin D due to its effects on cancer cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and apoptosis induction. The anticancer activity of vitamin D has been confirmed by several studies, which have shown that increased cancer incidence is associated with decreased vitamin D and that dietary supplementation of vitamin D slows down the growth of xenografted tumors in mice. Vitamin D inhibits the growth of cancer cells by the induction of apoptosis as well as by arresting the cells at the G0/G1 (or) G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Aim and Key Scientific Concepts of the Review: The purpose of this article is to thoroughly review the existing information and discuss and debate to conclude whether vitamin D could be used as an agent to prevent/treat cancers. The existing empirical data have demonstrated that vitamin D can also work in the absence of vitamin D receptors (VDRs), indicating the presence of multiple mechanisms of action for this sunshine vitamin. Polymorphism in the VDR is known to play a key role in tumor cell metastasis and drug resistance. Although there is evidence that vitamin D has both therapeutic and cancer-preventive properties, numerous uncertainties and concerns regarding its use in cancer treatment still exist. These include (a) increased calcium levels in individuals receiving therapeutic doses of vitamin D to suppress the growth of cancer cells; (b) hyperglycemia induction in certain vitamin D-treated study participants; (c) a dearth of evidence showing preventive or therapeutic benefits of cancer in clinical trials; (d) very weak support from proof-of-principle studies; and (e) the inability of vitamin D alone to treat advanced cancers. Addressing these concerns, more potent and less toxic vitamin D analogs have been created, and these are presently undergoing clinical trial evaluation. To provide key information regarding the functions of vitamin D and VDRs, this review provided details of significant advancements in the functional analysis of vitamin D and its analogs and VDR polymorphisms associated with cancers.

Bovine lactoferrin alleviates aflatoxin B1 induced hepatic and renal injury in broilers by mediating Nrf2 signaling pathway

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) a mycotoxin found in chicken feed that possess a global hazard to poultry health. However different potent compounds like bovine lactoferrin (bLF) may prove to be protective effects against AFB1. This study aims to explore the protective effect of bLF against AFB1-induced injury in the liver and kidney in broiler. For this purpose, 600 broilers chicks were randomly alienated into five groups (n=120 each): negative control; positive control (3mg/kg AFB1), and bLF high, medium, and low dosage groups (600 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 150 mg/kg, respectively). The results highlight that AFB1 toxicity in birds exhibited low feed intake, reduction in weight gain, and a decrease in FCR while, bLF regulated these adverse effects. Meanwhile, AFB1 group showed higher levels of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lower levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSHpx) in liver, while urea and creatinine were decline in kidney. Supplementation with bLF effectively controlled these biomarkers and control the negative effects of toxicity. Furthermore, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining exhibited normal morphological structures within liver and kidney in the bLF treated groups, while degenerative changes were observed in AFB1 group. Similarly, bLF, decreased oxidative stress and thus prevented apoptosis in the liver and kidney cells of the birds. Whereas, mRNA level of mitochondrial apoptosis related gene including Bcl-2 (Bak and Bax), caspase-3 and caspase-9 was upregulated, while bcl2 gene were downregulated in AFB1 group. Dietary supplementation of bLF effectively normalizes the expression of these genes. AFB1 exposed birds shown to decrease gene expression level of the crucial component of Nrf2 pathway, responsible to regulate antioxidant defense. Interestingly, bLF reverse these detrimental effects of and restore the normal expression levels of Nrf2 pathway. Conclusively, our findings demonstrate that bLF mitigates the detrimental effects of AFB1, besides regulation of the apoptosis-related genes via mitochondrial pathways. These findings validate that the bLF (600 mg/kg) could be used as protective agent against AFB1-induced liver and kidney damage.