Blood Total Antioxidant Capacity Research Articles

Effect of intermittent fasting on fasting blood glucose, sirtuin 1, and total antioxidant capacity in rat models of diabetes mellitus

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycaemia. DM therapy is mainly purposed to control blood glucose levels by adjusting diet and reducing body fat, which can be implemented with calorie restriction (CR) by intermittent fasting (IF), a diet that alternates periods between eating and fasting. Sirtuins, proteins activated by CR, can regulate glucose metabolism, regulate insulin secretion, and protect cells from oxidative stress, so IF is considered to be an opportunity for DM management.Objective: This study is to determine effects of IF on Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) levels, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) activity, and total antioxidants (TAOC) in rat models of Wistar with DM.Methods: This experimental study applied a post-test control group design involving 24 Wistar rats which were divided into 4 groups: K1 (rats with DM without IF), K2 (rats with DM treated with metformin 45 mg/kg BW, K3 (rats with DM treated with IF), and K4 (normal rats treated with IF). The diabetes condition were induced with intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). The rats received IF treatment, fasted for 16 hours and ate window open for 8 hours. This treatment was conducted for 14 days. The FBG levels were measured by using a glucometer, while SIRT1 activity and TAOC were measured by using the ELISA method.Results: The statistical analysis using the Kruskal Wallis test for the FBG levels indicated that there was a significant difference among the four groups (p = 0.000). The ANOVA test for SIRT1 activity revealed that there was a significant difference among the four groups (p = 0.001). The Kruskal Wallis test for TAOC pointed out that there was no significant difference among the four groups (p = 0.529).Conclusion: The IF method using a 16:8 regimen reduced the FBG levels and increased the sirtuin 1 activity, but it was not proven to increase the TAOC in the rat models of Wistar with DM.

Phytochemicals from Monty’s Surprise apple are absorbed in humans, increase plasma antioxidant response, and inhibit lung and breast cancer proliferation in vitro

Apples consumption is associated with improved health and reduced risk of cancer which is attributed to its phytochemical content(1). Evidence suggests that apple phytochemicals affect different Hallmarks of cancer and reduce oxidative stress, which is involved in the pathology of cancer(2). The limiting factor to obtain these effects in the human body is apple phytochemicals’ low bioavailability. Our study is focused on a heritage apple cultivar discovered in New Zealand - Monty’s Surprise. Based on our previous liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis this apple contains high phytochemical (mainly flavonoids) concentrations when compared to some other commercial apple cultivars available in New Zealand. This study aims to evaluate the bioavailability of Monty’s Surprise apple phytochemicals in humans and Monty’s Surprise phytochemicals’ effects on blood total antioxidant capacity and lung, and breast cancer cell proliferation. Twelve healthy participants received either apple puree or a placebo as a control in a randomised crossover human study. Blood samples were collected after overnight fasting and at regular intervals up to eight hours post-meal consumption. The main phytochemical metabolites in the participant’s plasma were evaluated by LC-MS-MS. Plasma total antioxidant capacity was evaluated by Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power. Based on the results from the metabolomics analysis we then created a synthetic mixture of the Monty’s Surprise apple phytochemical metabolites and evaluated their effects on cell proliferation using SYBR green assay in vitro. We were able to detect twenty-seven different phytochemical metabolites in the participant’s plasma after consumption of Monty’s Surprise apple puree. The main metabolites detected were metabolites of phenolic acids, and phase II metabolites, but also phloretin metabolites. Moreover, Monty’s Surprise apple puree consumption significantly increased (p < 0.001) plasma total antioxidant capacity 30 minutes post-meal intake (from the baseline to 170.76 µmol/L ± 34.58), when compared to the placebo consumption. In addition, Monty’s Surprise apple phytochemical metabolites inhibited lung and breast cancer cell proliferation at different concentrations. Results from this study demonstrated that Monty’s Surprise apple phenolic compounds are absorbed and enter the systemic circulation after apple puree ingestion and their absorption improves plasma antioxidant status. Moreover, Monty’s Surprise apple blood metabolites inhibit lung and breast cancer cell growth in vitro. These findings suggest that incorporating Monty’s Surprise apple into the diet may improve human health and prevent cancer development.

Impact of dietary-nucleotides and Saccharomyces cerevisiae-derivatives on growth-performance, antioxidant-capacity, immune-response, small-intestine histomorphometry, caecal-Clostridia, and litter-hygiene of broiler-chickens treated with florfenicol

ABSTRACT Stress in poultry production is energy-demanding. Nucleotides and yeast cell-wall products are essential nutrients for broiler performance, gut function, and immune response. Antibiotics, like florfenicol, negatively affect the immune system. A total of 600 one-d-old broiler chickens (Cobb-500) were weighed and randomly allotted into four groups with three replicates each. The control group (G1) received the basal diet, G2 received a diet supplemented with a combination of nucleotides and Saccharomyces cerevisiae derivatives (250 g/Ton), G3 received the basal diet and medicated with florfenicol (25 mg/Kg body weight) in drinking water for 5 days, while G4 received a combination of nucleotides and Saccharomyces cerevisiae-derivatives (250 g/Ton) and medicated with florfenicol in drinking water. Growth performance criteria were recorded weekly. Blood, intestinal contents, small-intestine sections, and litter samples were collected to measure birds’ performance, carcass yields, leukocytic counts, antioxidant capacity, antibody titres, phagocytic index, caecal Clostridia, intestinal histomorphometry, and litter hygiene. Nucleotide-supplemented groups (G2 and G4) revealed significant (p ≤ 0.05) improvements in feed conversion, and body weight, but not for carcass yields in comparison to the control. Dietary nucleotides in G2 elevated blood total proteins, leucocytic count, antioxidant capacity, and phagocytic index, while they lowered blood lipids and litter moisture and nitrogen (p ≤ 0.05). Dietary nucleotides in G4 ameliorated the immunosuppressive effect of florfenicol (p ≤ 0.05) indicated in reducing caecal Clostridia, improving duodenal and ileal villi length, and increasing blood albumin and globulin levels, and phagocytosis%. Supplementing diets with nucleotides and yeast products has improved the immune system and provided a healthier gut for broilers.

Optimizing dietary rumen-degradable starch to rumen-degradable protein ratio improves lactation performance and nitrogen utilization efficiency in mid-lactating Holstein dairy cows.

The dietary rumen-degradable starch (RDS) to rumen-degradable protein (RDP) ratio, denoted as the RDS-to-RDP ratio (SPR), has been proven to enhance in vitro rumen fermentation. However, the effects of dietary SPR in vivo remain largely unexplored. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary SPR on lactation performance, nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation patterns, blood indicators, and nitrogen (N) partitioning in mid-lactating Holstein cows. Seventy-two Holstein dairy cows were randomly assigned to three groups (24 head/group), balanced for (mean ± standard deviation) days in milk (116 ± 21.5), parity (2.1 ± 0.8), milk production (42 ± 2.1 kg/d), and body weight (705 ± 52.5 kg). The cows were fed diets with low (2.1, control), medium (2.3), or high (2.5) SPR, formulated to be isoenergetic, isonitrogenous, and iso-starch. The study consisted of a one-week adaptation phase followed by an eight-week experimental period. The results indicated that the high SPR group had a lower dry matter intake compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). A quadratic increase in milk yield and feed efficiency was observed with increasing dietary SPR (p < 0.05), peaking in the medium SPR group. The medium SPR group exhibited a lower milk somatic cell count and a higher blood total antioxidant capacity compared to other groups (p < 0.05). With increasing dietary SPR, there was a quadratic improvement (p < 0.05) in the total tract apparent digestibility of crude protein, ether extract, starch, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber. Although no treatment effect was observed in rumen pH, the rumen total volatile fatty acids concentration and microbial crude protein synthesis increased quadratically (p < 0.05) as dietary SPR increased. The molar proportion of propionate linearly increased (p = 0.01), while branched-chain volatile fatty acids linearly decreased (p = 0.01) with increasing dietary SPR. The low SPR group (control) exhibited higher concentration of milk urea N, rumen ammonia N, and blood urea N than other groups (p < 0.05). Despite a linear decrease (p < 0.05) in the proportion of urinary N to N intake, increasing dietary SPR led to a quadratic increase (p = 0.01) in N utilization efficiency and a quadratic decrease (p < 0.05) in the proportion of fecal N to N intake. In conclusion, optimizing dietary SPR has the potential to enhance lactation performance and N utilization efficiency. Based on our findings, a medium dietary SPR (with SPR = 2.3) is recommended for mid-lactating Holstein dairy cows. Nevertheless, further research on rumen microbial composition and metabolites is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of the observed effects.

Does vitamin C supplementation in milk improve growth and health of diarrheic calves?

The objective of this study was to investigate how supplementing vitamin C (VC) in milk affects growth, starter intake, blood metabolites, and the health of young calves classified into healthy or diarrheic groups. Calves were classified as diarrheic if they experienced diarrhea for at least 3 days from birth to day 7, otherwise, they were classified as healthy (i.e., days with diarrhea < 3). From day 8 of age, a total of 48 Holstein calves were divided into four groups based on a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, with calf health status (healthy or diarrheic) and VC supplementation (VC+ or VC–) to pasteurized milk (0 or 2 g/d; 50% purity) being the main experimental factors. Calves were fed equal amounts of milk until weaning (d 60). Calves continued to be monitored until they reached 74 days of age. Calves in the VC+ group were heavier at weaning (74.3 vs. 72.2 kg; P = 0.04) compared to those calves that did not receive VC. Blood total antioxidant capacity (d 53 and 67) and superoxide dismutase activity (d 53) were greater (P < 0.01) in VC+ vs. VC– calves. Calf health status and VC supplementation interacted (P = 0.03) for blood β-hydroxybutyrate on d 53, with the lowest concentration observed in diarrheic/VC– calves. Calves in the diarrheic group had a lower total antioxidant capacity (P = 0.01) but a greater neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio on d 53 and 67 (P < 0.01) than calves in the healthy group. Before weaning (d 53), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was greater, but hemoglobin was lower (P = 0.02) in calves classified into the diarrheic group that did not receive supplemental VC. The number of days medicated for diarrhea treatment was lower in VC+ calves than those in VC– group (1.73 vs. 2.47 days; P = 0.05). Overall, VC supplementation in pasteurized milk improved calf growth and health. Calves that experienced elevated episodes of diarrhea within the first week of life benefited more from supplemental VC than those classified into the healthy group.

The Effect of Yucca schidigera Extract on Serum Metabolites of Angus Crossbreed Steers with Metabolomics.

This study was conducted to explore the potential effect of Yucca schidigera extract (YSE) on the metabolism of beef cattle. Thirty Angus crossbreed steers were selected, with an initial mean body weight of 506.6 ± 33.3 kg, and assigned to two treatments: a diet with no additives (CON group) and a diet supplemented with 1.75 g/kg of YSE (YSE group) (on a dry matter basis). The experiment lasted for 104 days, with 14 days for adaptation. The results showed that adding YSE could significantly improve the average daily gain (ADG) from 1 to 59 d (15.38%) (p = 0.01) and 1 to 90 d (11.38%) (p < 0.01), as well as dry matter digestibility (DMD) (0.84%) (p < 0.05). The contents of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and bilirubin and the total antioxidant capacity were increased and blood urea was reduced in the YSE group, compared to the CON group (p < 0.05). Both the glycerophospholipids and bile acids, including phosphocholine, glycerophosphocholine, PC(15:0/18:2(9Z,12Z)), PE(18:0/20:3(5Z,8Z,11Z)), PE(18:3(6Z,9Z,12Z)/P-18:0), LysoPC(15:0), LysoPC(17:0), LysoPC(18:0), LysoPC(20:5(5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z)), deoxycholic acid, glycocholic acid, and cholic acid, were upregulated by the addition of YSE. In summary, YSE may improve the ADG by increasing the blood total antioxidant capacity and glycerophospholipid synthesis, maintaining steers under a healthy status that is beneficial for growth. Furthermore, YSE may also increase the expression of bile acid synthesis, thereby promoting DMD, which, in turn, offers more nutrients available for growth.

Spirulina platensis as a growth booster for broiler; Insights into their nutritional, molecular, immunohistopathological, and microbiota modulating effects

BackgroundThe present study is designed to assess the effect of adding various doses of Spirulina platensis (SP) on broiler chicken growth performance, gut health, antioxidant biomarkers, cecal microbiota, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). 240 male Cobb 500 broiler chicks (1 day old) were placed into four groups (sixty birds/group), then each group was further divided into three replicates of 20 chickens each for 35 days. Birds were allocated as follows; the 1st group (G1), the control group, fed on basal diet, the 2nd group (G2): basal diet plus SP (0.1%), the 3rd group (G3): basal diet plus SP (0.3%), and the 4th group (G4): basal diet plus SP (0.5%).ResultsThroughout the trial (d 1 to 35), SP fortification significantly increased body weight growth (BWG) and feed conversion rate (FCR) (P < 0.05). Bursa considerably increased among the immunological organs in the Spirulina-supplemented groups. Within SP-supplemented groups, there was a substantial increase in catalase activity, blood total antioxidant capacity, jejunal superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity (P < 0.05). Fatty acid binding protein 2 (FABP2), one of the gut barrier health biomarkers, significantly increased in the SP-supplemented groups but the IL-1β gene did not significantly differ across the groups (P < 0.05). Different organs in the control group showed histopathological changes, while the SP-supplemented chicken showed fewer or no signs of these lesions. The control group had higher levels of iNOS expression in the gut than the SP-supplemented groups (p < 0.05). Cecal Lactobacillus count significantly elevated with increasing the rate of SP inclusion rate (p < 0.05). ConclusionSupplementing broiler diets with SP, particularly at 0.5%, can improve productivity and profitability by promoting weight increase, feed utilization, antioxidant status, immunity, and gastrointestinal health.

In vitro effects of low-intensity infrared laser irradiation on oxidative stress biomarkers in blood samples from diabetes mellitus patients

PurposeThe biological effects of low-intensity laser irradiation on oxidative damage and free radical-induced processes in the blood of patients with diabetes mellitus have not been studied yet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the time- and dose-dependent effects of low-intensity infrared (IR) irradiation on biomarkers of lipid peroxidation, oxidative modification of proteins (aldehydic and ketonic derivatives), and total antioxidant capacity in blood of healthy individuals and patients with diabetes mellitus in vitro. MethodsBlood samples were collected from the diabetes patients and healthy individuals and exposed to low-intensity infrared irradiation in vitro. The samples were exposed to 1-, 5-, and 9-min IR laser pulses with the wavelength of 0.89 nm at different pulse repetition frequencies (0; 50; 150; 600; 1500 Hz) and moderate radiation power (0; 50; 100 mW). The biomarkers of oxidative stress, i.e. 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), aldehydic and ketonic derivatives of oxidatively modified proteins, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), were measured and analyzed in the samples of the exposed whole blood. ResultsCompared with the blood from the healthy controls, the lipid peroxidation analysis revealed 7 combinations of irradiation impact in the blood from the diabetes patients resulting in a decrease in lipid peroxidation processes, especially after the 9-min exposure. The analysis of oxidatively modified proteins demonstrated that laser light is mainly involved in the prevention of protein oxidation at moderate radiation power (50 and 100 mW), different pulse repetition frequencies (0; 50; 150; 600; 1500 Hz), the 9-min exposure and resulting in a decrease in lipid peroxidation processes. The analysis of the total antioxidant capacity revealed a predominantly positive effect of the low-intensity infrared irradiation. ConclusionsThese findings suggest potential involvement of blood dysfunction in the pathologic process of diabetes and provide insight into potential therapeutic targets of low-intensity IR laser irradiation for diabetes patients.

Effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles as Feed Additive on Blood Indices, Physiological, Immunological Responses, and Histological Changes in Broiler Chicks

A feeding trial of 5-week duration was performed to assess the response of broiler chicks to dietary supplementation with different doses of myco-fabricated zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZONPs) on blood indices, physiological, immunological response, antioxidant status, intestinal microbial count, and histological changes in immune organs. A total of 162 3-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were weighed individually and distributed equally into 3 dietary treatments with 6 replicate of 9 chicks in each in a completely randomized design. Chicks were fed ad libitum a basal ration prepared as starter, grower, and finisher supplemented with 0 (T1, control), 40 (T2), and 60 (T3) mg zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZONPs)/kg feed. Results showed that supplementing with ZONPs at both studied levels increased the relative weights of the spleen, bursa, thymus, and liver and decreased the relative weight of the kidney, gizzard, and intestine. A significant increase in the concentrations of hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (PCV%), red and white blood cell counts, total protein (TP), globulin (GLOB), aspartate transferase (AST), alanine transferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and a significant decrease in malonaldehyde (MDA), uric acid, and creatinine concentration were observed. Furthermore, all immunological organs showed histological alteration and increased both types of immunity in ZONPs groups with more pronounced effects in the T2 group.

Evaluation of dietary supplementation of frankincense oil on broiler chicken growth performance, hepatic histomorphology, antioxidant activity, blood biochemical parameters, and inflammatory responses

This investigation aimed to assess the potential impact of frankincense oil (FKO) from Boswellia serrata on broiler chicken growth performance parameters, including body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the starter, grower, and finisher phases. We also evaluated the hepatic histology, serum hepatorenal function tests, antioxidant activity, and inflammatory responses. A total of 400 three-day-old male chicks (Ross 308 broiler) (100.40 ± 0.13 g) were randomly assigned to four treatment groups (10 replicates/group, ten chicks/replicate). The birds were fed basal diet (FKO0, control group) or basal diet supplemented with 200, 400, and 600 FKO/kg of diet (FKO200, FKO400, FKO600, respectively). The experiment lasted 35 days. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed that FKO contained 36 constituents, with the dominant compounds being 1,6,10-DODECATRIEN-3-OL, 3,7,11-TRIMETHYL-, [S-(Z)]- (12.42%), ç-Elemene (12.42%), à-Farnesene (12.42%), PHENOL and 2,4-BIS(1,1-DIMETHYLETHYL)- (7.15%). Distinctive FKO levels (200-600 mg/kg) showed greater BW without influencing total feed intake compared to the FKO0 treatment. The FCR was improved by the addition of FKO to the diets. The blood concentrations of alanine aminotransferase and creatinine increased (p < 0.05) in the FKO600 treatment. Dietary FKO linearly lowered serum malondialdehyde levels and enhanced blood total antioxidant capacity, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukine-1 β and interferon γ) compared to the control group. Broilers fed FKO at levels 200–600 mg kg−1 diet also exhibited lower serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Furthermore, the FKO400 and FKO600 treatments showed an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.01). Histomorphological analysis of the liver indicated no significant differences between the FKO-supplemented groups and the control group. However, the immunoexpression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine (transforming growth factor β) was considerably increased in the liver and spleen tissues of birds fed FKO in a level-dependent manner. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of FKO at levels up to 600 mg/kg can serve as a natural growth promoter in broiler chickens, leading to enhanced growth, hypolipidemic properties, antioxidant status, and immune responses.

Effects of Dietary Bioactive Lipid Compounds of Acacia nilotica Bark on Productive Performance, Antioxidant Status, and Antimicrobial Activities of Growing Rabbits under Hot Climatic Conditions.

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of dietary Acacia nilotica bark bioactive lipid compounds (ANBBLCs) as novel feed additives on the growth performance, carcass criteria, antioxidants, and antimicrobial activities of growing male rabbits. A total of 100 California male weanling rabbits aged 35 days were divided into four nutritional treatments, each of which contained ANBBLCs at concentrations of 0 (control group), 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg diet (n = 25 per treatment, each replication consisting of one animal). The average body weight of the animals was 613 ± 14 g. The experiments lasted for 56 days. Dietary ANBBLC levels linearly improved (p < 0.05) the body weight, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of rabbits. Furthermore, with increasing concentrations of ANBBLCs, the total antioxidant capacity of blood and liver tissue was linearly (p < 0.05) enhanced. Lactobacillus increased and Staphylococcus decreased (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control group when ANBBLC levels were added to the diets of rabbits. Rabbit diets supplemented with ANBBLCs increased dressing percentages and decreased abdominal fat. This study shows that ANBBLCs can be used as a feed additive to enhance the growth performance, carcass criteria, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of growing rabbits.

EVALUATION OF THE EFFICACY OF DIFFERENT RUMEN BUFFERS ON PREVENTION OF RUMINAL ACIDOSIS IN GOATS

This study was realized to evaluate the efficacy of dietary supplementation of sodium bicarbonate plus magnesium oxide "MgO", calcareous marine algae (AcidBuf) and essential oils (Actifor®Boost) on the animal performance and prevention of ruminal acidosis in goats moreover, evaluation the diagnostic accuracy of some biochemical parameters including blood pH, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), bicarbonate (HCO3-), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2), beta-hydroxybutyric acid (βHBA) and plasma L-lactate versus ruminal pH in diagnosis of ruminal acidosis. A total of 30 goats were divided into five equal groups (G1-5) according to the type of dietary treatment. G1 served as a control group and fed the concentrate diet only, G2 fed the concentrate diet supplemented with 10 g Na bicarbonate plus 4g MgO, G3 supplemented with 4g AcidBuf, G4 supplemented with 10 g Na bicarbonate plus 4g MgO plus 4g AcidBuf and G5 supplemented with 1g Actifor® boost/head/day for five days. Tachycardia, tachypnea and decreased ruminal motility were recorded in G1 only. The ruminal pH tended to return to its toward normal for G3 and G4 with a mean of (6.3±0.03 and 6.3±0.01, respectively) which significantly higher than those of G1 and G2 (6.19±0.01 and 6.17±0.02 respectively). A significant increase in plasma L-lactate and a significant decrease in blood pH, HCO3-, pCO2, TAC, and βHBA were recorded in G1 when compared with other groups. Calcareous marine algae with or without adding other compounds found to be a promising rumen buffer agent, moreover TAC and plasma L-lactate showed better diagnostic performance versus rumen pH in the diagnosis of ruminal acidosis.

Effect of Different Recovery Methods on Oxidative Stress and Hematological Indicators in Female Runners

Background and Objectives Exercise can increase oxidative and metabolic stress. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of different recovery methods after an acute training session on aspartate aminotransferase activity, oxidative stress, and some hematological indices of female runners. Subjects and Methods In the present quasi-experimental study, 30 semi-professional female runners were selected as the research sample and randomly divided into three groups (n=10): active running recovery, passive recovery, and sports massage. After two weeks, the same training protocol was performed for athletes and also after a week of rest, fasting blood sampling was performed. Blood sampling was performed in three stages: 1- fasting, 2- after 1500 meters competition, and 3- immediately after different stages of recovery. The one-way analysis of variance was used for statistical analysis. Results The results showed that in the massage group, the change in hematocrit, white blood cells, and hemoglobin was more than in the active and inactive recovery group (P&lt;0.05), while in the active recovery group, the level of malondialdehyde decreased more than the massage and inactive recovery groups (P&lt;0.05). There was no significant difference between the three recovery methods on changes in iron, red blood cells, aspartate aminotransferase, and total antioxidant capacity (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion According to the results, it can be said that active recovery can prevent damage caused by oxidative stress by increasing blood flow.

Effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale) supplementation on testicular histology, semen characteristic, blood plasma parametersand reproductive performance in aged broiler breeder roosters.

Higher long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids contents in roosters' sperm plasma membrane along with age-related decrease in antioxidant defense make the spermatozoa very susceptible to lipid peroxidation. Ginger root contains abundant amounts of gingerol, shogaols, gingerdiol and other active compounds, which known as antioxidant compounds to enhance semen quality. The goal of the study was to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of ginger root on semen quality, blood chemistry, immune response, testicular histology and reproductive performance of Ross-308 breeder roosters from 47 to 60 weeks of age. The feeding of ginger root resulted in an increase in parameters related to sperm forward motility and seminal total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and following there was a tendency to increase and decrease in seminal superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehydeconcentration, respectively; however, sperm concentration was not affected. There was an increase and tendency to increase in blood total protein and TAC in the supplemented grouprespectively. The roosters fed ginger supplemented diet had a higher spermiation index; and following there was tendency to increase seminal tubes spermatozoids number (p = 0.056) and repopulation index (p = 0.058). Despite the improved seminal antioxidant status and a tendency to lower embryonic mortality in the ginger-received group, the fertility and hatchability rate of roosters were statistically insignificant. Supplementations of ginger root in ageing rooster's diet had a beneficial effect on sperm motility, seminal antioxidant statusand testicular spermiation index.

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Alveolar Bone Damage in Experimental Periodontitis in Rats.

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) juice is rich in phenolic compounds with high antioxidant capacity. It has been observed that the use of antioxidants may be an additional strategy to nonsurgical periodontal therapy as well as to prevent alveolar bone loss. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of açaí supplementation on experimental periodontitis in rats. Twenty male Rattus norvegicus (Wistar) rats were assigned into control, açaí, experimental periodontitis, and experimental periodontitis with açaí supplementation groups. Periodontitis was induced by placing ligatures around the lower first molars. Animals in the açaí groups received 0.01 mL/g of clarified açaí juice for 14 days by intragastric gavage. At the end of the experimental period, blood was collected to assess the reduced glutathione (GSH), Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) levels. Moreover, hemimandibles were analyzed by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) for alveolar bone loss and bone quality. Açaí supplementation increased blood total antioxidant capacity and decreased lipid peroxidation. It also reduced alveolar bone loss when compared to the experimental periodontitis group. Moreover, clarified açaí per se modulated the oxidative biochemistry and bone microstructure. Thus, açaí may be considered a viable alternative for managing periodontal oxidative stress and preventing alveolar bone loss.

Dalargin, a peripheral opiate receptor agonist, in the pathogenesis of myocardial contusion in rats with different stress tolerance

Aim. To evaluate the effect of dalargin, a peripheral opiate receptor agonist, on the adaptive strategy of rats with different stress tolerance after the myocardial contusion.Materials and Methods. The experiment was performed on 216 male rats weighing 250-300 g which were ranked according to stress resistance using the forced-swim (Porsolt) test and the open feld test. Rats were divided into 3 groups: control animals and those with a blunt cardiac injury, with or without dalargin administration (100 µg/kg intramuscularly 2 hours before anesthesia, immediately before injury, and 2 hours post injury). Each group included 3 subgroups (n = 8 rats per each) with high, medium, and low stress tolerance. Myocardial contusion was simulated using an original device. Blood levels of glucose, lactic acid, triglycerides, corticosterone, total protein, albumin, white blood cell count, reduced glutathione and total antioxidant capacity were measured in all rats 24 hours post injury.Results. Myocardial contusion altered the metabolic profle to the stress-related pattern. The most signifcant increase in rectal temperature, white blood cell count, corticosterone, glucose, lactic acid, and triglyceride levels as well as maximum decrease in reduced glutathione and total myocardial antioxidant capacity were documented in animals with low stress tolerance. Administration of dalargin alleviated the stress response regardless of animal stress resistance.Conclusion. Blunt cardiac injury and myocardial contusion induce stress response characterised by hypercatabolism, systemic infammatory response syndrome, and myocardial oxidative stress in all rats, with a most signifcant response in animals with low stress tolerance. A peripheral opiate receptor agonist dalargin did not change the response pattern but curbed the stress response.

Prediction injury of the central nervous system in the neonatal period in preterm newborns

Objective: to develop a system for predicting the probability of developing damage of the central nervoussystem (CNS) in the neonatal period in children who was born prematurely. Materials and methods: the main group of the study is premature newborns with gestational age (GA) less than 36 weeks inclusive (n = 60), the control group – fullterm newborns (n = 35). In the process of dynamic observation, the main group was divided into subgroups depending on the diagnosed CNS injury in the neonatal period, according to the neurosonography (intraventricular hemorrhages (IVH), periventricular leukomalacia (PVL): subgroup 1 (prematurity babies with CNS injury) – 25 people, subgroup 2 (premature babies without CNS injury) – 35 people. we estimated clinical and anamnestic, laboratory and instrumental data of children at birth and in dynamics, indicators of antioxidant protection (manganese-containing superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), copper, zinc-containing superoxide dismutase (Cu, Zn-SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), total antioxidant capacity of blood (TAS/TAC), oxidative stress (TOS/TOC), 4 polymorphisms of Mn-SOD gene. Results: we designed two prognostic models which can determine the probability of developing IVH and PVL in the neonatal period in premature newborns. This models are included GA, Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes of life, presence of respiratory failure at birth, invasive mechanical ventilation in the neonatal period, presence of intrauterine infection in the neonatal period and indicators of antioxidant protection (GSH, TAS/TAC; model 2). Conclusions: a comprehensive assessment of the clinical and anamnestic data of premature newborns at birth, as well as the determination of indicators that take into account the level of antioxidant protection, will make it possible to identify a premature baby at the risk for organic injury of the CNS and to correct the therapeutic strategies in the neonatal period.

The effect of propolis on 5-fluorouracil-induced cardiac toxicity in rats

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is one of the most common chemotherapeutic agents used in treating solid tumors, and the 5-FU-induced cardiotoxicity is the second cause of cardiotoxicity induced by chemotherapeutic drugs. Propolis (Pro) has vigorous anti-inflammatory activity. Its cardio-protective characteristic against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity was previously proven. The current study aimed to appraise the effect of Pro on 5-FU-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: Control, 5-FU, 5-FU + Pro 250 mg/kg, and 5-FU + Colchicine (CLC) 5 mg/kg. Different hematological, serological, biochemical, histopathological, and molecular assays were performed to assess the study’s aim. Moreover, a rat myocardium (H9C2(2–1)) cell line was also used to assess this protective effect in-vitro. 5-FU resulted in significant cardiotoxicity represented by an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) expression, cardiac enzyme levels, and histopathological degenerations. 5-FU treatment also decreased bodyweight, total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT) levels, blood cell counts, and hemoglobin (Hb) levels. In addition, 5-FU disrupted ECG parameters, including increased elevation in the ST-segment and increased QRS complex and QTc duration. Treating with Pro reduced oxidative stress, cardiac enzymes, histopathological degenerations, and COX-2 expression in cardiac tissue alleviated ECG disturbances and increased the number of blood cells and TAC levels. Moreover, 5-FU-induced bodyweight loss was ameliorated after treatment with Pro. Our results demonstrated that treatment with Pro significantly improved cardiotoxicity induced by 5-FU in rats.

Oxidative and antioxidant changes in blood of young people with premature coronary artery disease and abdominal obesity

Aim. To study the oxidative and antioxidant blood profile in young people with premature coronary artery disease (CAD) and abdominal obesity (AO).Material and methods. The study included 169 people. The main group consisted of 47 patients diagnosed with premature (&lt;45 years of age) CAD, while 22 of them with AO and 25 without AO. The control group included 122 people without CAD, comparable with the main group in sex, age and body mass index. Among them, there are 67 people with AO and 55 people without AO. In all examined patients, the blood levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, MDA-modified oxidized high-density lipoprotein, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase 1, and whole blood total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined. Statistical processing was carried out in the SPSS 13.0 program.Results. The blood TAC was 2,3 times lower in persons with CAD than in those without CAD, and amounted to 1,58 mmol of trolox. The blood level of SOD in patients with CAD was 1,16 times higher than in the group of people without CAD. The relative odds of premature CAD were associated with decreased TAC (B=-2,855; Exp(B)=0,058; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0,008-0,392; p=0,004) and increased level of SOD (B=0,105; Exp(B)=1,076; 95% CI, 1,031-1,196; p=0,006), regardless of sex, age, risk factors. Conclusion. Thus, an increased SOD and reduced TAC can be potential biomarkers for premature CAD in people under 45 years of age.

Flaxseed and Agnus-castuson vitex as a source of phytoestrogens and their impact on productive performance, some blood constituents, and blood oestradiol profile of aged laying hens

To investigate the effect of Flaxseeds (Flax) or vitex Agnus-castuson (Vitex), a total of 180 aged hens (58 weeks of age) were divided into 5 treatment groups with 36 each as followe: groups 2 and 3 were fed the basal diet supplemented with 1 or 2 g Flax/kg, respectively. And group 4 and 5 were fed the basal diet supplemented with a 2.5 or 5 g Vitex/kg, respectively. While group 1 was served as a control group. The experiment period was lasted for two months. Flax or Vitex in hens’ rations resulted in a significant (p ≤ .001) increase in EP and EM percentages compared to the control group, as well, EW was increased significantly with the high level of Vitex only. Although, Flax or vitex did not affect daily FI, a FCR values showed a significant improvement. The high level of both Flax and Vitex boosted (p ≤ .001) the egg-shell weight than the control group. Flax or Vitex treatment resulted in a slightly decline egg albumin weight (%),while, the egg yolk weight was increased significantly(p ≤ .001). There were a significant reduction (p ≤ .001) in blood total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol concentrations in Flax or Vitex groups, Contrariwise, HDL cholesterol was a significantly increased (p ≤ .001). Blood total antioxidant capacity concentration was a significant increase (p ≤ .001) of Flax and Vitex groups than the control. Adding Flax or Vitex to hens ration boosted blood oestradiol-17β hormone secretion (p ≤ .001) than the control group. Highlights Egyptian chicken breeds are characterised by lower egg production rates compared to commercial breeds, and they reach the end of the egg production curve early. So, our aim was to use some plant materials as a phytoestrogens source to improve the reproductive and productive performance of these strains and prolong the period of egg production for them.