Embryo Weight Research Articles

Effects of dietary daidzein supplementation on reproductive performance, immunity, and antioxidative capacity of New Zealand White does

This study was conducted to explore the effects of dietary daidzein (DA) supplementation on reproductive functions in rabbit does. A total of 200 New Zealand White does were randomly assigned to four groups and fed a basal diet with no DA (control, CON) or the basal diet supplemented with 85 (DA85), 170 (DA170), and 340 (DA340) mg DA/kg throughout the gestation. Results showed that DA elevated individual embryo weight at 19 days of gestation. DA supplementation at 170 mg/kg also elevated the individual and litter birth weight at parturition (P < 0.05). DA supplementation at 170 and 340 mg/kg elevated the serum concentrations of estrogen and IGF-I at 19 days of gestation (P < 0.05), and elevated the concentrations of leptin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) at parturition (P < 0.05). DA increased the serum concentration of IgG, but decreased the concentrations of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and malonic dialdehyde (MDA) (P < 0.05). DA supplementation at 170 mg/kg increased the serum activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT) at parturition (P < 0.05). Moreover, DA elevated the expression levels of critical genes related to reproductive functions such as the progesterone receptor (PGR), estrogen receptor-β (ESRRB), and transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α) in the uterus (P < 0.05). DA supplementation at a moderate dose (170 mg/kg) also elevated the expression levels of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and nuclear receptor subfamily 5 group A member 2 (NR5A2) in the placenta (P < 0.05). These results suggested that DA can improve the reproductive performance of does, which was associated with elevated serum hormones, immunity and antioxidant capacity, as well as the expression levels of critical genes related to reproductive functions.

Morphological and Skeletal Abnormalities Induced by Rolapitant: An Antiemetic Agent

IntroductionRolapitant hydrochloride is a highly selective, long-acting antagonist of the neurokinin-1 (NK1RA) receptor with a high level of central nervous system (CNS) penetrance. Clinically, it is given to cancer patients with high and moderate emetogenic chemotherapy to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). The facts produced in this research support the interpretation of teratogenic effects like anatomical malformations and abnormal skeletal changes affected by high doses of rolapitant in developed chick embryos, which can be extrapolated to humans due to gaps in the literature regarding the teratogenic potential of rolapitant. As rolapitant is metabolized by the liver and excreted through the kidney by leaving a deep impact on the various systems of the body and due to its high plasma concentration with a half-life of more than 180 hours, the study was conducted to acquire some additional information about its adverse effects over the various body systems. Chick is one of the best animals for embryological laboratory research. For various reasons, it is preferred to research embryology in chicks or domestic hens (Gallus domesticus). Chick eggs are large, readily available all year, easy to incubate, and regulate artificially.AimThis study aimed to determine the morphological and skeletal abnormalities due to the effect of rolapitant, an antiemetic agent, in developing White Leghorn (G. domesticus) chicken eggs.Materials and methodsThe experiment used 300 fertilized White Leghorn chicken eggs. The eggs were categorized into five experimental groups (A, B, C, D, and E, each with 30 eggs) and five control groups (a, b, c, d, and e, each with 30 eggs). Rolapitant was administered into the five experimental groups of eggs on incubation day five at various concentrations of 0.00039, 0.0005, 0.00075, 0.001, and 0.00125 mg, respectively, while the control groups received the same volume (0.039, 0.05, 0.075, 0.1, and 0.125 ml, respectively) of normal saline.ResultsAt all doses, the mean weight and crown-rump (CR) length of chick embryos were significantly greater in the control group than in the experimental group. The experimental group died at a higher rate than the control group. Additionally, it was found that the mortality due to the rolapitant dosages increases with dose. All groups except group A showed skeletal anomalies such as poor ossification, bent, and displacement, and morphological abnormalities such as yolk sac retraction, hematoma, and scanty feathers were found in experimental groups C, D, and E. This was shown to be more prevalent in the experimental groups and was exacerbated by subsequent rolapitant dosages.ConclusionRolapitant is toxic when taken in large doses and for an extended period. As a result, rolapitant should be taken only when a valid diagnosis has been established and only at the recommended dose, not at a larger dose or for an extended period of time.

Modulatory Effects of Arctostaphylos uva-urs Extract In Ovo Injected into Broiler Embryos Contaminated by Aflatoxin B1.

Simple SummaryThe poultry industry is of great importance worldwide; however, mycotoxins contamination, especially aflatoxins, has harmful effects on poultry production. Therefore, finding out new strategies to alleviate aflatoxin contamination is an important trend of research. In our study, we focused on the in ovo injection techniques using the methanolic extract of brae beery “Arctostaphylos uva-ursi” (Ar. uu) to modulate the aflatoxinB1 (AFB1) adverse effects in broiler embryos. As a result, 0.1 g of Ar. uu in ovo injection alleviates AFB1 embryotoxicity by enhancing chicks’ physiological responses and optimizing antioxidant status, which is reflected in a low mortality rate and heavier relative weight of the hatched chicks. The in ovo injection of AFB1 + Ar. uu significantly declined AFB1-induced toxicity in embryos and increased broiler chicks embryo’s survival by 62.5%, increased relative embryo weight by ∼65.25% compared to eggs injected with AFB1 alone. Regarding immune responses, the in ovo injection of Ar. uu enhances the embryo’s humoral immune responses and regulates oxidative stress biomarkers. In general, the in ovo injection of Ar. uu modulates broiler chicks’ embryotoxicity caused by AFB1.In ovo injection of nutrients can modulate the embryo’s physiological responses against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) embryotoxicity. This hypothesis was tested using in ovo injection of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Ar. uu.) methanolic extract. The total polyphenols, total flavonoids, total antioxidant capacity, and GC-MS analysis were all assessed in the Ar. uu. methanolic extract. A total of 180 ten-day-old embryonated eggs were distributed into six groups of 30 replicates each. The first group was used as a control (non-injected), and the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth groups were injected with 10 µ double-distilled water (DDW), 500 µL methanol, 0.01 g Ar. uu./500 µL methanol, 50 ng AFB1/10 µL DDW, and 50 ng AFB1 in 10 µ DDW + 0.01 g Ar. uu./500 µL methanol, respectively. The relative embryo weight, residual yolk sac weight, tibia length and weight, and survival were recorded. Total and differential leukocytes, oxidative stress, and humoral immune responses were observed. The residual yolk sac was lower (p < 0.05) in the Ar. uu. group than other groups. The embryonic growth (tibia weight and length) was enhanced in AFB1 + Ar. uu.-injected embryos compared with those injected with AFB1 alone. In conclusion, in ovo injection of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi could modulate AFB1-induced toxicity in chicken embryos.

Genetic diversity and pathogenicity of novel chicken astrovirus in China

ABSTRACT Five novel chicken astrovirus (CAstV) strains, designated ZDF, MHC, WSC, WSW and MHW, were successfully isolated from chickens with gout, and were subjected to full genome sequencing characterization and tested for their pathogenic effects in specific pathogen-free (SPF) chicken embryos and chickens. The complete genomes of the five isolated strains were approximately 7436 nt to 7511 nt in length. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that strains ZDF and MHC were clustered in a clade with strains isolated in China and that the others were clustered with strains from other countries. Based on the amino acids of ORF2, strains MHW and WSW belonged to subgroup Ai, strain WSC belonged to Bii, and strains ZDF and MHC belonged to Bi. The pathogenicity of strains MHW, MHC and WSC, all belonging to different subgroups was studied. The results showed that the mortality of the chicken embryos was 100% when infected with any strain at a dose of more than 103 TCID50, 35% in SPF chickens infected with strain WSC, 25% with MHC and 15% with MHW. The body weights of chickens and embryos infected with 0.2 ml 10 TCID50 were significantly reduced after hatching. SPF chickens infected with any of the strains had similar lesions characterized by urate deposits on the epicardium and kidney, and necrotic spots on the liver. This study identified the three types of genotypic CAstV prevalent in China, with high mortality in embryonated chicken eggs and leading to white chick syndrome, retarded growth and visceral gout in infected chicks.

Mutations in OsDET1, OsCOP10, and OsDDB1 confer embryonic lethality and alter flavonoid accumulation in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) seed.

Morphological and biochemical changes accompanying embryogenesis and seed development are crucial for plant survival and crop productivity. Here, we identified a novel yellowish-pericarp embryo lethal (yel) mutant of the japonica rice cultivar Sindongjin (Oryza sativa L.), namely, yel-sdj. Seeds of the yel-sdj mutant showed a yellowish pericarp and black embryo, and were embryonic lethal. Compared with wild-type seeds, the yel-sdj mutant seeds exhibited significantly reduced grain size, grain weight, and embryo weight, and a remarkably lower rate of embryo retention in kernels subjected to milling. However, the volume of air space between embryo and endosperm, density of embryo, and total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity of mature grains were significantly higher in the yel-sdj mutant than in the wild type. Genetic analysis and mapping revealed that the yel-sdj mutant was non-allelic to the oscop1 null mutants yel-hc, yel-cc, and yel-sk, and its phenotype was controlled by a single recessive gene, LOC_Os01g01484, an ortholog of Arabidopsis thaliana DE-ETIOLATED 1 (DET1). The yel-sdj mutant carried a 7 bp deletion in the second exon of OsDET1. Seeds of the osdet1 knockout mutant, generated via CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing, displayed the yel mutant phenotype. Consistent with the fact that OsDET1 interacts with CONSTITUTIVE PHOTOMORPHOGENIC 10 (OsCOP10) and UV-DAMAGED DNA BINDING PROTEIN 1 (OsDDB1) to form the COP10-DET1-DDB1 (CDD), seeds of oscop10 and osddb1 knockout mutants also showed the yel phenotype. These findings will enhance our understanding of the functional roles of OsDET1 and the CDD complex in embryogenesis and flavonoid biosynthesis in rice seeds.

Anti-Newcastle Disease Virus activity of 3β and 3α Friedelanol Triterpenoids from the leaves of Synadenium glaucescens Pax.

Newcastle Disease (ND) is a highly pathogenic disease of avian species which is caused by Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV). It is one of the major causes of mortality and morbidity to poultry industry in the third world countries. Currently, there is no treatment measures against ND; the only existing measure is vaccination, though it is incapable to offer 100% immunity. In Tanzania, the leaves of Synadenium glaucescens Pax. are traditionally used for treatment of various ailments including ND. Previously, its leaves extract has been scientifically confirmed to exhibit anti-NDV activity though bioactive compound(s) responsible for this activity is/are unknown. Therefore, this study was aimed to evaluate anti-NDV activity of 3β-Friedelanol (1) and 3α-friedelanol (2) isolated from its leaves extract. Isolation of these compounds was achieved by column chromatography method whereas, their chemical structures were determined by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) data and by comparing with the available literature NMR data. Anti-NDV activity study was done in embryonated chicken eggs (ECEs). Treatment of NDV inoculated ECEs with 3β-Friedelanol (1) reduced the viral load to zero and maintained the survival of embryos, this was revealed by continuous organs formation and increase in embryo weights with no significant different (p > 0.05) from un-inoculated ECE. These effects suggest that, 3β-Friedelanol (1) possesses anti-NDV activity. Therefore, existence of 3β-Friedelanol (1) in the leaves of S. glaucescens may justify its earlier described anti-NDV activity and traditional use in the treatment of ND. Hence, its leaves extract may be considered for development of anti-NDV herbal formulation while 3β-Friedelanol could either serve as a drug or lead compound for synthesis of anti-NDV drugs.

Interaction between weight and strain of Nile tilapia broodstocks in relation to growth and reproductive performance

The objective was to evaluate the growth and reproductive performance of Nile tilapia broodstocks of Thai and GIFT strains, in different weight classes, to define the strain and the ideal weight for commercial reproduction and larviculture. A total of 120 females of Nile tilapia from the Thai strain and 120 from the GIFT strain were divided into six weight groups (20 females each), as follows: with an average initial weight of 300 g, 500 g, 700 g, 900 g, 1100 g, and 1300 g. The fish of each strain and weight group were kept in cages arranged in masonry tanks with an earthen floor, in a greenhouse with a water flow through systems at 28 °C. The animals were fed until apparent satiety with a commercial diet with 38% of crude protein and 3000 kcal kg−1 of digestible energy. During the reproductive period, both strains were housed with males from the GIFT strain of approximately 600 g, in a 2:1 ratio, remaining for 7 days and, subsequently, 14 days at rest for recovery, during 6 months. As for the production performance, the final weight of the broodstocks, total length, standard length, height, and width were evaluated. As for the reproductive performance, the visceral, hepatosomatic, gonadosomatic indexes, average weight of embryos (of all breeders), absolute embryo production (of all breeders), relative embryos production, embryos production index and number of hatched embryos (of all breeders) were also evaluated. The data were subjected to factor analysis (strains x weight groups, α = 0.05), and when differences were found between the means, the Tukey test was performed (α = 0.05). The Thai strain showed the greatest growth in the reproductive period; however, the GIFT strain was more efficient in reproductive performance, and the weight group with approximately 900 g was the most suitable for obtaining satisfactory results for reproduction and larviculture on a commercial scale.

How the Skate Embryo Develops: A Fine Developmental Timeline of Kong Skate Okamejei kenojei (Müller &amp; Henle, 1841)

Cartilaginous fishes, as an important group of jawed vertebrates, hold great promise for improving our understanding of vertebrate evolution. Previous studies have established a good staging scheme for shark embryos. However, to date, little attention has been paid to the development of skate embryos. In this study, we established a fine developmental timeline for the Kong skate. We hatched eggs of the Kong skate (Okamejei kenojei) at fixed temperatures (16.5°C ± 0.5°C) while observing three samples every day and recorded the complete embryonic development. The embryo weight and development time were found to have a quadratic relationship. The weight-at-day curve was fitted by y = 0.0005x2 - 0.0109x + 0.0882 (R² = 0.9406). In addition, complete embryonic development from gastrula to skate larvae took 92 ± 5 days. Here, we divided the entire development process into 39 stages. This shows that the jaw of O. kenojei is developed from the first pair of pharyngeal arches, and its body disc is formed by the fusion of the pectoral fin and head. The eyespots began to form from stage 36 and then became thicker and bigger until the young skate broke out of the egg. Notably, we found that males and females develop differently from stage 31; the end of the male pelvic fins expands inward, which develop into copulatory organ-claspers, whereas in the females, they do not expand. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to record the embryonic development of eyes, body discs, eyespots, and other organs of O. kenojei in detail. We hope that our work will provide valuable information for researchers to identify specific time points for developing skate embryos.

Gender Identification of Embryonic Chicken in the Egg by Heart Beat Modulation Technique

The main goal of this study was to use a heartbeat modulation technique to determine the sex of a chicken embryo five days after incubation and investigate the effect of weight and temperature differences on the sex of the embryo. The embryo's growth after five days of incubation helps to determine the chicken's sex. As the temperature drops, so does the beat rate. In female embryos, the decline is more gradual. Female embryos have a faster rise in heart rate and return to normal after cooling. For the observation process, 200 fertilized eggs were collected and divided into four groups, and another 200 fertilized eggs were collected and divided into four groups for the identification process. Before incubation, the weight of 50 eggs from each group was measured, and five days later, the embryonic growth of each group's embryos was calculated, and samples were collected. The separation constant, embryo weight, and temperature are the essential factors in determining the embryonic chicken's sex. The relationship between heartbeat rate, embryo weight difference, and beat rate as temperature changes can be expressed as a first-order and first-degree differential equation. An integral combination can be determined and is of the form dy + Pydx = Qdx, where P and Q are only functions of x. Using this relationship, the separation constant c is equal to the difference between the heartbeat rate and the sine function of the embryo's weight difference over the cosine function of the embryo's beat difference during cooling. During the five-day incubation period, male chicks have an average beat rate of 62 beats per minute, while females have an average beat rate of 74 beats per minute. Male embryos gain weight faster than female embryos. As the temperature drops, so does the beat rate. In female embryos, the decline is more gradual. Female embryos have a faster rise in heart rate and return to normal after cooling.

Potential origin of spontaneous embryonic death in a natural model: Lagostomusmaximus (plains viscacha)

The gestation period in agoutis can range from 104 to 120 days. Knowledge regarding the morphological characteristics of embryos and fetuses is important as a base for studies in reproduction biotechnology, such as in vitro fertilization, embryo transfer and helps in determining congenital anomalies during the development phase. Thus, given the importance and lack of information about agouti embryology, the objective of this study was to characterize the external morphology and define the biometry of embryos and fetuses, at different days of development. Nine females were submitted to daily colpocytology to identify the estrus, confirm mating and identify day zero of the gestation. When the mating was confirmed they were weighed, underwent abdominal ultrasonography and surgery was conducted on the females at the gestational ages of 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 75 and 100 days. Sixteen embryos/fetuses were weighed and measured. Agouti embryos at 25 days after mating are “C” shaped, with primitive structures, 0.4 ± 0.01 cm crown-rump and weighed 0.06 ± 0.01 g; at 30 days after mating the crown-rump was 0.95 ± 0.07 cm and weighed 0.28 ± 0.00 g; at 35 days after mating the crown-rump was 155 ± 0.07 cm and weighed 0.38 ± 0.01 g; at 40 days after mating the crown-rump was 2.25 ± 0.21 cm and weighed 1.25 ± 0.07 g; at 45 days after mating the crown-rump was 3.45 ± 0.35 cm and weighed 2.75 ± 0.64 g; at 50 days after mating the crown-rump was 5.0 ± 0.3 cm and weighed 7.01 ± 2.6 g; at 75 days after mating, the skin was dark, the crown-rump was 10.0 ± 0.14 cm and weighed 55.2 ± 0.07 g. At 100 days after mating, the crown-rump was 13.8 ± 0.49 cm and fetuses weighed 136.7 ± 9.40 g. Based on the morphological data assessed the embryo and fetus age could be assessed and the size and average weight of agouti embryos was established.

177 Early Weaning Impairs Reproductive Development and Fertility of the Male

Abstract Reproductive failure remains a major limitation to the efficiency of livestock production. Early weaning has been linked with reduced male fertility; however, the biological mechanisms mediating this effect are largely undefined. The objective of this study was to develop a murine model to examine the effects of early weaning on testis development and function. Neonatal CD-1 mice were reared with their dams and littermates; pups were randomly assigned to either conventional (21 d; n = 12) or early (18 d; n = 12) weaning. At maturity, males were paired with a primiparous, non-littermate female. Copulatory plugs were detected daily, and females were euthanized at d 14 of gestation to assess reproductive traits; males were also euthanized to evaluate reproductive development. Gravid uterine weight tended to be reduced (P = 0.09) in females bred to early-weaned males, which was likely due to differences in litter size because early-weaned males tended to sire fewer viable fetuses (P &amp;lt; 0.08). Implantation rate was not different between treatments (P &amp;gt; 0.10), but the number of fetal reabsorptions tended to be greater in litters produced from early-weaned males (P = 0.10). Early embryonic survival was unaffected by treatment (P &amp;gt; 0.10), but late embryonic survival tended to be reduced (P = 0.08) in litters sired by early-weaned compared with conventionally-weaned controls. Furthermore, average conceptus weight was greater in litters sired by early-weaned males, which may be a reflection of their smaller litter sizes. These data suggest that early-weaned males produce sperm that yield defects in embryonic development not conception. Notably, testis and seminal vesicle weights were reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.01) in males weaned early versus conventionally-weaned controls, even when adjusting for body weight. Smaller testes and seminal vesicles suggest impaired sperm production capacity and testosterone biosynthesis, respectively. Together, these results indicate that early weaning impairs the development and function of the murine testis leading to reduced male fertility.

Evaluation of supramolecular complex of fenbendazole effect on embryonic development

The purpose of the research is to study the embryotropic effect of supramolecular complex of fenbendazole (SMСF).Materials and methods. The experiment to assess the embryotropic properties of SMCF was carried out on 40 white female and 20 male rats in accordance with the Guidelines for the experimental (preclinical) study of new pharmacological substances. Pregnant female rats were divided into 3 experimental and one control groups. SMCF was administered intragastrically on the 1–6 days of embryogenesis (group 1); on the 7–14 days (group 2) and on the 15–19 days (group 3) in three times therapeutic dose – 6,0 mg/kg of active substance. The animals of the control group received saline from the first to the 19th days of pregnancy. Rats were euthanized on the 20th day of pregnancy. The uterus with fetuses was removed after laparotomy, the number of corpora lutea, implantation sites, the number of living, dead and resorbed fetuses were recorded, the weight and diameter of the placenta were determined. The embryos were examined, weighed, the craniocaudal sizes were determined, the levels of total embryonic, preimplantation and postimplantation embryo death were calculated. The fetuses were examined for abnormalities of internal organs and changes in the skeletal system according to the methods of J. G. Wilson (1965) and A. B. Dawson (1926), modified in the department of embryology of the IEM of the USSR Academy of Medical Sciences.Results and discussion. As a result, SMCF does not induce toxic effects on the fetus: mortality rates, size and weight of embryos were at the level of the control group in a threefold therapeutic dose 6,0 mg/kg at intragastric administration on the 1–6; 7–14 and 15–19 days of pregnancy. SMCF did not cause external and internal malformations.

Effects of pre-incubation storage duration and nonventilation incubation procedure on embryonic physiology and post-hatch chick performance

This study investigated the effects and possible interactions of storage and nonventilation during incubation for eggs from Sasso broiler breeder flock on pre- and post-hatch incubation results.A total of 1,260 Sasso eggs from a 58-wk-old broiler breeder flock were individually numbered, weighed and stored for 7 d or for 18 d in a climate-controlled room (16°C, 75% RH). After storage, eggs were weighed, and randomly assigned equally into 2 incubators. One of the incubators was ventilated (V) for the entire incubation and the second was nonventilated (NV) for the first 12 d. At d 18, the eggs were weighed, candled, and fertile eggs were transferred from the turning trays to hatching baskets. During the last 3 d of incubation, hatching eggs were checked individually every 3 h for hatching events and hatchability of fertile eggs. After pull out at d 21.5, post-hatch performances was determined until 1 wk of age.Results showed that, embryo weights from eggs in NV incubator was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in both stored eggs compared to those from eggs in ventilated incubator, but embryos from eggs stored for 18 d were smaller (P < 0.05) than those from eggs stored for 7 d. Hatchability was higher (P < 0.0001) in NV incubator compared to V incubator in both 7 d and 18 d stored eggs and an interaction was found between incubation ventilation and storage duration on both hatchability and embryonic mortality (P < 0.0001). Chick weights from NV incubator at 7 d post-hatch was greater (P = 0.0009) than those from V incubator. Serum Tri-iodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxin (T4) concentrations were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in NV compare to V group.It was concluded that the effect of long-term pre-incubation storage on embryonic physiology and post-hatch growth interacted significantly with incubation ventilation and that nonventilation can compensate for the negative effects of storage on some hatching and post-hatch performances.

Exposure of Copper Nano-Particles (CuNPs) Impairs Developmental Stages and Hatchability in the Fresh Water Snail Indoplanorbis exustus (Planorbidae: Pulmonate)

Pollution of water bodies by humans, in our day-to-day activities impairs the quality of water, thereby making the water sources unsuitable for aquatic fauna and also for human health. Various sources of pollutants in excess may negatively affect the diversity of living organisms. The evolving growth of nanotechnology has attracted a great deal of attention due to its concern in assessing their environmental and health safety. The present study was conducted to investigate toxicity of copper nanoparticles (CuNP) on the development of fresh water snail Indoplanorbis exustus. Acclimatized snails were exposed to increasing concentration of CuNP for 96 h and acute toxicity experiment was carried out to determine LC50, followed by exposure of snails to sublethal concentrations of CuNP to observe developmental deformities and to estimate percentage hatchability and survivability of young ones. The projected LC50 value for 96h of CuNPs was found to be 5.8mg/L, followed by exposure to sub-lethal concentrations of 1/6th(0.96mg/L), 1/5th(1.16mg/L), 1/4th(1.45mg/L), and 1/3th (1.93mg/L). The highest concentration of (1.93mg/L;1/3thof LC50) retarded hatching and caused morphological deformities in the larvae. However, no significant difference was observed in the weight of embryos in 7 days. These results revealed that CuNP exposure at sub lethal concentrations exerted developmental stress.&#x0D; HIGHLIGHTS&#x0D; &#x0D; Most of the invertebrate models used in aquatic toxicity are from phylum Mollusca, the gastropods are considered as the best model organisms for NPs toxicity because they are adapted to various environmental disturbances due to their dual habitat, easy availability, high fecundity, small size, short generation time and adaptability.&#x0D; Snails, Indoplanorbis exustus were exposed to increasing concentration of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) for 96 h and acute toxicity experiment was carried out to determine LC50, followed by exposure of snails to sublethal concentrations of CuNPs to observe developmental deformities and to estimate percentage hatchability and survivability of young ones&#x0D; The highest concentration of (1.93 mg/L; 1/3th of LC50) retarded hatching and caused morphological deformities in the larvae. However, no significant difference was observed in the weight of embryos in 7 days. These results revealed that CuNP exposure at sub lethal concentrations exerted developmental stress on snails&#x0D;

Enhanced antioxidation capacity endowed to a mixed type aldose reductase inhibitor leads to a promising anti-diabetic complications agent

A series of 5f-based new compounds has been designed and synthesized. In vitro screening demonstrated that the binding affinity and selectivity on aldose reductase (AR) were positively correlated with its antioxidation capacity. Compound 6d was verified the most active candidate, where its IC50, selective index (SI), and EC50 value was 22.3 ± 1.6 nM, 236.2, and 8.7 μM respectively. 6d was confirmed as both an excellent antioxidant and aldose reductase inhibitor (ARI). It was identified as a mixed type ARI with Ki and Kis values of 23.94 and 1.20 nM. When evaluated by a high-glucose impaired chicken embryo model, it was found that 6d attenuated the incidence of neural tube defect (NTD) and death rate in a dose-dependent manner. It significantly improved the hyperglycemia-induced abnormalities of body weight and morphology of chicken embryos. 6d reversed the hyperglycemia-raised AR activity, sorbitol accumulation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. It restored the high-glucose-reduced Pax3 protein expression. At the same dose (0.5 μM), 6d showed better effects than 5f in all the above detections. By the way, 6d did not affect hyperglycemia-elevated aldehyde reductase (ALR1) activity. This evidence together with its kinetic properties, implicated that 6d is a high selective ARI without the suspicion of promiscuity. 6d was proved here an effective agent to treat diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Whether 6d has potential to treat other types of diabetic complications (DC) needs to be further investigation.

Embryo development of hatching eggs of superior local broiler (ALPU) with Arab native chickens (Kamaras)

Efforts to improve the quality of local chickens, especially free-range chickens, are carried out by improving genetic traits, namely through a strict selection method to produce broilers with the name of Superior Local Broilers (ALPU) and laying purposes with Arab Kampung Chickens (Kamaras). This study was conducted to obtain information on the comparison of ALPU and Kamaras embryo development for genetic improvement as the basis for further research. This study used 105 ALPU hatching eggs and 105 Kamaras hatching eggs, the observations were carried out for 21 days. Eggs were collected for 7 days and then put into the incubator, then observed every day by breaking each 5 ALPU and Kamaras eggs to see 7 parameters of embryo development in the form of: body weight, body length, head circumference, neck length, beak length, wing length and leg length. The results showed that there was no significant developmental difference between ALPU and Kamaras embryos. However, the embryo weight and beak length of Kamaras tended to be larger than those of ALPU, while the head circumference and wing length of ALPU tended to be larger than that of Kamaras. In conclusion, the embryonic development between ALPU and Kamaras showed relatively similar embryo development during the hatching period.

Study of embryotoxic and teratogenic properties of Medicine No. 60 and evaluation of its effect on the reproductive function of rats.

Intramuscular administration of medicine No. 60 at a dose of 1.281 mg/kg (30 times the estimated highest daily dose for humans) when diluted with 1:5 saline solution to pregnant rats from Day 1 to Day 19 of pregnancy does not affect the indicators of pre- and postimplantation death of baby rats. The body weight of the rats exposed to the medicine No. 60 during the prenatal period of development did not differ from the indicators in the control group. The development of offspring in the experimental group during the entire observation period took place without deviation from the terms characteristic of the normal physiological development of animals of this species. As a result of the studies conducted, it was found that intramuscular administration of drug No. 60 at a dose of 1.281 mg/kg in a 1:10 dilution with saline solution, which was 30 times the estimated maximum daily therapeutic dose for humans, did not affect the sexual activity of animals, reproductive indicators (number of live fetuses, body weight of embryos, their craniocaudal size, number of yellow bodies, implantation sites, resorption), or the neonatal development of baby rats. Thus, there was no effect of medicine No. 60 in the test dose of 1.281 mg/kg on the reproductive function of healthy mature rats and does not exhibit embryotoxic and teratogenic activity.

Slightly acidic electrolyzed water as an alternative disinfection technique for hatching eggs

Conventional chemical disinfectants used for egg disinfection could result in toxic residue and endanger hatchability, chick quality, and pullet growth performance. Slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) is known as a novel disinfectant for egg sterilization due to its high efficiency and no residue. In this study, a comprehensive assessment of slightly acidic electrolyzed water and benzalkonium bromide solution (BBS) used in the disinfection channel was conducted to assess the microbial count, eggshell quality, and hatchability concomitantly. The results show that the sterilization efficiency of SAEW increased with an increase in available chlorine concentration (ACC), spraying volume, and sterilization duration. SAEW with an ACC of 150 mg/L and 10,000 mg/L benzalkonium bromide solution had the same sterilization rates of approximately 86.2% at a spraying volume of 0.5 mL/egg and sterilization duration of 180 s. Neither had significant effect on eggshell strength or thickness. The eggshell cuticle quality in the benzalkonium bromide group was significantly higher than the control group (no disinfection) and the 150 mg/L SAEW group. The embryo weight, relative embryo weight, hatchability, and embryonic mortality in the SAEW group had no significant differences of those in the benzalkonium bromide group. SAEW should be more popular because of its simple preparation, low cost, and no residue. Our results indicate SAEW is an alternative disinfectant for the sterilization of hatching eggs instead of conventional chemical disinfectants, such as benzalkonium bromide, and give a recommendation is using SAEW as a disinfectant with 150 mg/L ACC, 0.5 mL/egg spray volume, and disinfection for 180 s in the novel disinfection channel.

Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate Induces Mass Mortality of Crucian Carp (Carassius carassius) Embryos in Taihu Lake.

Global fishery resources have been declining for decades, leading some fisheries to collapse. Although the decline is partly due to man-made chemical contamination, causal chemicals have been identified in only a few cases. We conducted consecutive 3-year investigations of embryonic mortality in Taihu Lake, China, including heavily contaminated northern areas, including Zhushan (ZS), Meiliang (ML), and Gonghu (GH), and the less polluted southeastern Suzhou (SZ). In 2016, 65.8% of crucian carp (Carassius carassius) embryos collected from ZS died before hatching, a substantially higher mortality rate than those observed in ML (21.7%), GH (15.2%), and SZ (2.2%). In 2017, the embryonic mortality rates were 38.8% in ZS, 1.3% in ML, 6.9% in GH, and 3.5% in SZ, and these rates strongly correlated with the concentrations of tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TDCIPP): 104.2, 1.8, 4.6, and 4.1 ng/g lipid weight (lw) in embryos from ZS, ML, GH, and SZ, respectively. In 2018, embryonic mortality decreased to 4.0% in ZS and 1.2% in GH, consistent with decreases in embryonic TDCIPP concentrations to 17.1 and 1.5 ng/g lw, respectively. Moreover, the TDCIPP concentrations in dead embryos (70.5-216.8 ng/g lw) were much higher than those in live embryos (1.2-10.5 ng/g lw). Embryonic mortality was also observed in well-controlled laboratory experiments in which wild crucian carp were exposed to TDCIPP at concentrations similar to those measured in embryos collected from Taihu Lake, thus confirming TDCIPP as a causal factor in mass crucian carp embryo mortality in Taihu Lake. TDCIPP thus poses a threat to the sustainability of fisheries worldwide, given the high worldwide production volume of this chemical and its embryonic lethal toxicity.

Effects of maternal dietary energy restriction on laying performance, embryonic development, and lipid metabolism in broilers

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different degrees of maternal dietary energy restriction on lipid deposition in embryonic tissues during the medium laying period (37 to 39 weeks) in Arbor Acres (AA) broiler breeders.MethodsA single factor design was adopted, and 400 AA broiler breeders (20 weeks of age) with a similar weight were randomly allocated into four groups. The birds in the control group were fed a corn-soybean meal based diet, and those in trial groups were fed diets with 80%, 70%, and 50% energy levels of the basal diet. Incubated eggs from the medium laying period were collected. Samples of developing embryos at various stages were prepared for composition analysis.ResultsThe embryo weight in the 80% energy group was higher than those of the other groups on embryonic day (E) 13, but at 21 E, they were significantly decreased with decreasing energy intake of the broiler breeders (p<0.05). Additionally, the levels of crude fat in tissues in the restriction groups were significantly decreased (p<0.05). The long axis and area of adipocytes in breast muscle, thigh muscle and the liver were significantly decreased (p<0.05) at 21 E in the 80%, 70%, and 50% energy groups.ConclusionThe effects of the 80% maternal dietary energy restriction energy affects egg production performance, egg quality, and nutrient deposition in egg weights, which then directly impacts on the developmental process of embryos, especially on fat utilization and deposition.