2023

Jump to: 2022, 2021, 2020

13 pages, 2315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Fermented Rapeseed Meal in Feeds for Growing Piglets on Bone Morphological Traits, Mechanical Properties, and Bone Metabolism

by Siemowit Muszyński, Aleksandra Dajnowska, Marcin B. Arciszewski, Halyna Rudyk, Jadwiga Śliwa, Dominika Krakowiak, Małgorzata Piech, Bożena Nowakowicz-Dębek and Anna Czech

Animals 2023, 13(6), 1080; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13061080 - 17 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1455

Abstract

Quality feed is essential for correct bone development and proper functioning of animals. Post-weaned piglets experience a radical change in eating behaviour that can influence their feed intake. For this reason, functional feed additives and ingredients that can be used in post-weaning feeds [...] Read more.

Quality feed is essential for correct bone development and proper functioning of animals. Post-weaned piglets experience a radical change in eating behaviour that can influence their feed intake. For this reason, functional feed additives and ingredients that can be used in post-weaning feeds are needed. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of partially replacing wheat with rapeseed meal fermented using Bacillus subtilis strain 87Y on overall bone quality and bone metabolism in weaner piglets. From the 28th day of life, barrows were fed either a standard wheat-based diet or a diet containing 8% fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) with or without a feed additive containing enzymes, antioxidants, probiotics, and prebiotics. The experimental period lasted 60 days, after which femur quality indices were assessed. Differences in bone length and weight were observed, but there were no changes in bone mineralization or bone mid-diaphysis morphometrical traits between treatments. FRSM inclusion reduced bone mid-diaphysis biomechanical properties, but these changes were dependent on feed-additive supplementation. Analysis of the levels of serum bone turnover markers suggests the intensification of bone resorption in FRSM-fed groups as deoxypyridinoline levels increase. The results obtained warrant further research on what the disturbances in bone mechanical properties and metabolism observed in FRSM-fed weaners means for the subsequent fattening period. Full article

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2022

Jump to: 2023, 2021, 2020

15 pages, 296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Raw Chickpea in the Broiler Chicken Diet on Intestinal Histomorphology and Intestinal Microbial Populations

by Anna Danek-Majewska, Małgorzata Kwiecień, Wioletta Samolińska, Danuta Kowalczyk-Pecka, Bożena Nowakowicz-Dębek and Anna Winiarska-Mieczan

Animals 2022, 12(14), 1767; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12141767 - 10 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1391

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of partial replacement of SBM protein with CPR-derived protein in the broiler rearing period from 22 to 42 days of age on the intestinal histomorphology and the composition of the intestinal microbial population. [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of partial replacement of SBM protein with CPR-derived protein in the broiler rearing period from 22 to 42 days of age on the intestinal histomorphology and the composition of the intestinal microbial population. Male broiler chicks aged 1 day were assigned to two groups with different nutrition schemes (n = 100 in each, 5 cages of 20 chicks in each). The chickens were reared for 42 days. All birds were fed isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets: starter (1 to 21 d), grower (22 to 35 d), and finisher (36 to 42 d). From rearing day 22, different diets were provided to the birds: the SBM group received feed with 100% soybean meal protein, and the diet of the CPR group the protein originated from soybean meal was replaced by 50% chickpea protein. The study results indicated a significant impact of the inclusion of CPR in the diet on the basic intestinal structures (thickness of myenteron: submucosa, jejunum and duodenum mucosa, and jejunum transversal lamina). The addition of CPR led to shortening of intestinal villi, an increase in villus thickness, and reduced intestine absorptive surface in the duodenum and jejunum. The CPR group exhibited a significantly lower villus length-to-crypt depth ratio in the jejunum (p < 0.001). The inclusion of chickpeas in the diet increased the total count of mesophilic bacteria and coliforms in the intestinal contents (p < 0.05). In summary, it has been demonstrated that the inclusion of CPR in the diet induced considerable disturbances in metabolism and intestinal structure. Although CPR is a cheap protein source, its use in poultry diet does not ensure development of the intestinal structure comparable to that in the case of an SBM-only diet. Full article

14 pages, 3015 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Morphology and Chemical Coding of Rat Duodenal Enteric Neurons following Prenatal Exposure to Fumonisins

by Katarzyna Kras, Halyna Rudyk, Siemowit Muszyński, Ewa Tomaszewska, Piotr Dobrowolski, Volodymyr Kushnir, Viktor Muzyka, Oksana Brezvyn, Marcin B. Arciszewski and Ihor Kotsyumbas

Animals 2022, 12(9), 1055; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12091055 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1854

Abstract

Fumonisins (FBs), including fumonisin B1 and B2 produced by the fungus Fusarium verticillioides, are widespread mycotoxins contaminating crop plants as well as processed food. The aim of the experiment was to determine whether the exposure of 5-week-old pregnant rats to FBs at [...] Read more.

Fumonisins (FBs), including fumonisin B1 and B2 produced by the fungus Fusarium verticillioides, are widespread mycotoxins contaminating crop plants as well as processed food. The aim of the experiment was to determine whether the exposure of 5-week-old pregnant rats to FBs at 60 mg/kg b.w. (group FB₆₀) or 90 mg/kg b.w. (group FB₉₀) results in morphological changes in the duodenum of weaned offspring, particularly the enteric nervous system (ENS). In addition, the levels of expression of galanin and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) in the ENS were analysed by immunofluorescence in the control and experimental groups of animals. No significant morphological changes in the thickness of the muscle layer or submucosa of the duodenum were noted in group FB₆₀ or FB₉₀. In group FB₉₀ (but not FB₆₀), there was a significant increase in the width of the villi and in the density of the intestinal crypts. Immunofluorescence analysis using neuronal marker Hu C/D showed no significant changes in group FB₆₀ or FB₉₀ in the morphology of the duodenal ENS, i.e., the myenteric plexus (MP) and submucosal plexus (SP), in terms of the density of enteric ganglia in the MP and SP, surface area of MP and SP ganglia, length and width of MP and SP ganglia, surface area of myenteric and submucosal neurons, diameter of myenteric and submucosal neurons, density of myenteric and submucosal neurons, and number of myenteric and submucosal neurons per ganglion. In both groups, there was an increase (relative to the control) in the percentage of Hu C/D-IR/VIP-IR (IR-immunoreactive) and Hu C/D-IR/galanin-IR myenteric and submucosal neurons in the ganglia of both the MP and SP of the duodenum. In addition, in groups FB₆₀ and FB₉₀, there was an increase in the number of nerve fibres showing expression of VIP and galanin in the mucosa, submucosa and circular muscle layer of the duodenum. The results indicate that prenatal exposure to FBs does not significantly alter the histological structure of the duodenum (including the ENS) in the weaned offspring. The changes observed in the chemical code of the myenteric and submucosal neurons in both experimental groups suggest harmful activity of FBs, which may translate into activation of repair mechanisms via overexpression of neuroprotective neuropeptides (VIP and galanin). Full article

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15 pages, 4478 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Growth Performance, Bone Development and Phosphorus Metabolism in Chicks Fed Diets Supplemented with Phytase Are Associated with Alterations in Gut Microbiota

by Lan Li, Xiaoyi Zhang, Jiatu Zhang, Meiling Liu, Lihong Zhao, Cheng Ji, Jianyun Zhang, Shimeng Huang and Qiugang Ma

Animals 2022, 12(7), 940; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12070940 - 06 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2034

Abstract

Phosphorus pollution caused by animal husbandry is becoming increasingly problematic, especially where decreasing and non-renewable phosphorus resources are concerned. We investigated the growth performance, bone development, phosphorus metabolism and gut microbiota changes elicited by different phosphorus levels with/without phytase in chicks during the [...] Read more.

Phosphorus pollution caused by animal husbandry is becoming increasingly problematic, especially where decreasing and non-renewable phosphorus resources are concerned. We investigated the growth performance, bone development, phosphorus metabolism and gut microbiota changes elicited by different phosphorus levels with/without phytase in chicks during the brooding period (1–42 d). Five-hundred-and-forty (540) egg-laying chickens were assigned to six groups (0.13% NPP, 0.29% NPP, 0.45% NPP, 0.13% NPP + P, 0.29% NPP + P and 0.45% NPP + P) according to a factorial design with three non-phytate phosphorus (NPP) levels (0.13, 0.29 and 0.45%) and two phytase (P) dosages (0 and 200 FTU/kg). Chicks fed with the diet with 0.13% NPP had the lowest body weight, average daily gain, shank length, average daily feed intake and highest ratio of feed to gain, while phytase supplementation was able to mitigate the adverse effects of low-phosphorus diets on growth performance. Moreover, phosphorus metabolism was affected by different dietary NPP and phytase levels. Thus, 0.13% NPP significantly reduced serum phosphorus, while phytase supplementation significantly increased serum phosphorus. Notably, phosphorus utilization in the 0.13% NPP group was significantly decreased and the phosphorus excretion ratio was increased. Phytase supplementation significantly improved phosphorus utilization by 43.79% and decreased phosphorus emission in the 0.13% NPP group but not in the 0.29% NPP or the 0.45% NPP group. Remarkably, the alpha diversity of gut microbiota was significantly decreased in the low-phosphorus group, while phytase supplementation increased alpha diversity and improved gut microbial community and function. The LEfSe analysis revealed that several differential genera (e.g., Bacteroides, norank_f__Clostridiales_vadinBB60_group and Eggerthella) were enriched in the different dietary NPP and phytase levels. Furthermore, correlations between differential genera and several crucial phenotypes suggested that the enrichment of beneficial bacteria with different levels of phosphorus and phytase promoted phosphorus utilization in the foregut and hindgut. In summary, low-phosphorus diets inhibited growth performance and bone development, decreased utilization of phosphorus and altered gut microbial structure and function in the brooding stage of chicks. Finally, phytase supplementation improves growth performance and bone development and decreases phosphorus emission, and the potential mechanisms may be associated with the reprogramming of gut microbiota. Full article

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2021

Jump to: 2023, 2022, 2020

12 pages, 841 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Growth Rate and Bone Hydroxyproline Concentration in Turkeys Fed with a Silage-Composed Diet Modified with Different Diet Cation–Anion Differences (DCADs)

by Marta Wójcik, Klaudia Stachal, Mateusz Burzec, Kamil Gruszczyński and Agnieszka Korga-Plewko

Animals 2022, 12(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12010066 - 29 Dec 2021

Viewed by 1482

Abstract

Our goal was to determine the responses of body weight (BW) and bone hydroxyproline (Hyp) concentration in turkeys fed a corn silage (CS) diet with different values of dietary cation–anion differences (DCADs). The turkeys (n = 90) were divided into five groups and [...] Read more.

Our goal was to determine the responses of body weight (BW) and bone hydroxyproline (Hyp) concentration in turkeys fed a corn silage (CS) diet with different values of dietary cation–anion differences (DCADs). The turkeys (n = 90) were divided into five groups and fed as follows: group A (control)—standard diet (SD) (60%) plus CS (40%); group B—SD (60%), CS (40%) plus 240 g of CaCl₂ per 100 kg of diet; group C—SD (60%), CS (40%) plus 480 g of CaCl₂ per 100 kg of diet; group D—SD (60%), CS (40%) plus 240 g of NaHCO₃ per 100 kg of diet; group E—SD (60%), CS (40%) plus 480 g NaHCO₃ per 100 kg of diet. The addition of a lesser amount of CaCl₂ lowered the DCAD, which ranged between 52.5 ± 4.19 and 91.14 ± 3.14 mEq/kg DM. An increased content of CaCl₂ led to high negative values of DCAD. NaHCO₃ supplemented in both doses resulted in a significant elevation of DCAD. Compared to each experimental group, feeding birds with a diet supplemented only with CS resulted in a lower BW. Addition of CaCl₂ or NaHCO₃ to the diet improved BW, but only CaCl₂ addition enhanced the bone Hyp amount. In conclusion, we suggest that an anionic diet with low DCAD can prevent bone abnormalities in large turkeys, especially in the final course of production. Full article

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13 pages, 298 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Camelina Oil Supplementation Improves Bone Parameters in Ovariectomized Rats

by Iwona Puzio, Dorota Graboś, Marek Bieńko, Radosław P. Radzki, Aneta Nowakiewicz and Urszula Kosior-Korzecka

Animals 2021, 11(5), 1343; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11051343 - 09 May 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2037

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of administration of Camelina sativa oil (CO) as a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on bone parameters in ovariectomized rats (OVX). Overall, 40 10-week-old healthy female Wistar rats were divided into [...] Read more.

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of administration of Camelina sativa oil (CO) as a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on bone parameters in ovariectomized rats (OVX). Overall, 40 10-week-old healthy female Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups with 10 animals in each. Rats in the control group (SHO) were subjected to a sham operation, whereas experimental rats (OVX) were ovariectomized. After a 7-day recovery period, the SHO the rats received orally 1 mL of physiological saline for the next 6 weeks. The OVX rats received orally 1 mL of physiological saline (OVX-PhS), 5 g/kg BW (OVX-CO5), or 9 g/kg BW (OVX-CO9) of camelina oil. The use of camelina oil had a significant effect on body weight, lean mass, and fat mass. The camelina oil administration suppressed the decrease in the values of some densitometric, tomographic, and mechanical parameters of femur caused by estrogen deficiency. The CO treatment increased significantly the serum level of osteocalcin and decreased the serum level of C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen in the OVX rats. In conclusion, camelina oil exerts a positive osteotropic effect by inhibiting ovariectomy-induced adverse changes in bones. Camelina oil supplementation can be used as an efficient method for improving bone health in a disturbed state. However, further research must be carried out on other animal species supplemented with the oil. Full article

12 pages, 1442 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between Bone Quality, Egg Production and Eggshell Quality in Laying Hens at the End of an Extended Production Cycle (105 Weeks)

by Clara Alfonso-Carrillo, Cristina Benavides-Reyes, Jon de los Mozos, Nazaret Dominguez-Gasca, Estefanía Sanchez-Rodríguez, Ana Isabel Garcia-Ruiz and Alejandro B. Rodriguez-Navarro

Animals 2021, 11(3), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11030623 - 26 Feb 2021

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 3778

Abstract

(1) Background: Nowadays the industry aims to improve lay persistency for extended cycles (100 weeks or longer) to make egg production more sustainable. However, intensive egg production challenges hen health, inducing severe osteoporosis and the incidence of bone fractures. In this study, the [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Nowadays the industry aims to improve lay persistency for extended cycles (100 weeks or longer) to make egg production more sustainable. However, intensive egg production challenges hen health, inducing severe osteoporosis and the incidence of bone fractures. In this study, the relationship between bone quality and egg production, and/or eggshell quality, was evaluated at the end of an extended laying cycle of 100 weeks, comparing groups of hens with different production and eggshell quality parameters; (2) Methods: Quality parameters of egg (as weight, egg white height), eggshell (as thickness, weight, breaking strength, elasticity and microstructure) and tibiae bone (weight, diameter, cortical thickness, ash weight, breaking strength, medullary bone) were determined; (3) Results: Hens from groups with a high egg production and good eggshell quality have poorer bone quality (lower ash weight and lesser amount of medullary bone). However, Pearson’s correlation analysis shows no clear relationship between bone and egg/eggshell parameters. (4) Conclusions: Bone and egg production/eggshell quality are independent and can be improved separately. Medullary bone has an important contribution to bone mechanical properties, being important to accumulate enough bone medullary bone early in life to maintain skeletal integrity and eggshell quality in old hens. Full article

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15 pages, 1964 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Programming Effect of the Parental Obesity on the Skeletal System of Offspring at Weaning Day

by Radoslaw Piotr Radzki, Marek Bienko, Dariusz Wolski, Monika Ostapiuk, Pawel Polak, Malgorzata Manastyrska, Aleksandra Kimicka and Joanna Wolska

Animals 2021, 11(2), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11020424 - 06 Feb 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1748

Abstract

Our study aimed to verify the hypothesis of the existence of a programming effect of parental obesity on the growth, development and mineralization of the skeletal system in female and male rat offspring on the day of weaning. The study began with the [...] Read more.

Our study aimed to verify the hypothesis of the existence of a programming effect of parental obesity on the growth, development and mineralization of the skeletal system in female and male rat offspring on the day of weaning. The study began with the induction of obesity in female and male rats of the parental generation, using a high-energy diet (group F). Females and males of the control group received the standard diet (group S). After 90 days of dietary-induced obesity, the diet in group F was changed into the standard. Rats from groups F and S were mated to obtain offspring which stayed with their mothers until 21 days of age. Tibia was tested using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), micro-computed tomography (µCT) and mechanical strength using the three-point bending test. Biochemical analysis of blood serum bone metabolism markers was performed. DXA analysis showed higher tibia bone mineral content (BMC) and area. pQCT measurements of cortical and trabecular tissue documented the increase of the volumetric bone mineral density and BMC of both bone compartments in offspring from the F group, while µCT of the trabecular tissue showed an increase in trabecular thickness and a decrease of its separation. Parental obesity, hence, exerts a programming influence on the development of the skeletal system of the offspring on the day of the weaning, which was reflected in the intensification of mineralization and increased bone strength. Full article

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8 pages, 1372 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Chemically-Induced Inflammation Changes the Number of Nitrergic Nervous Structures in the Muscular Layer of the Porcine Descending Colon

by Liliana Rytel, Ignacy Gonkowski, Waldemar Grzegorzewski and Joanna Wojtkiewicz

Animals 2021, 11(2), 394; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11020394 - 04 Feb 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1436

Abstract

The enteric nervous system (ENS) is the part of the nervous system that is located in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract and regulates the majority of the functions of the stomach and intestine. Enteric neurons may contain various active substances that act [...] Read more.

The enteric nervous system (ENS) is the part of the nervous system that is located in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract and regulates the majority of the functions of the stomach and intestine. Enteric neurons may contain various active substances that act as neuromediators and/or neuromodulators. One of them is a gaseous substance, namely nitric oxide (NO). It is known that NO in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract may possess inhibitory functions; however, many of the aspects connected with the roles of this substance, especially during pathological states, remain not fully understood. An experiment is performed here with 15 pigs divided into 3 groups: C group (without any treatment), C1 group (“sham” operated), and C2 group, in which experimental inflammation was induced. The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of inflammation on nitrergic nervous structures in the muscular layer of the porcine descending colon using an immunofluorescence method. The obtained results show that inflammation causes an increase in the percentage of nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)-positive neurons in the myenteric plexus of the ENS, as well as the number of nitrergic nerve fibers in the muscular layer of the descending colon. The obtained results suggest that NO is involved in the pathological condition of the large bowel and probably takes part in neuroprotective and/or adaptive processes. Full article

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11 pages, 301 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Fish Oil and Dietary Antioxidant Supplementation on Bone Health of Growing Lambs

by Grzegorz Skiba, Stanisława Raj, Monika Sobol, Marian Czauderna, Paweł Kowalczyk and Eugeniusz R. Grela

Animals 2021, 11(1), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010230 - 18 Jan 2021

Viewed by 1815

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of partial replacement of rapeseed oil (RO) with fish oil (FO) combined with dietary supplementation of various antioxidants on the characteristics of lamb femur. Thirty male lambs were assigned to five dietary [...] Read more.

The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of partial replacement of rapeseed oil (RO) with fish oil (FO) combined with dietary supplementation of various antioxidants on the characteristics of lamb femur. Thirty male lambs were assigned to five dietary treatments and fed isoproteinous and isoenergetic diets for 35 days. The control diet was enriched with 3.0% RO, while the experimental diets were enriched either only with 2.0% RO and 1.0% FO or additionally with 0.1% carnosic acid, 0.1% carnosic acid and 0.35 ppm Se as selenized yeast, or 0.1% carnosic acid and 0.35 ppm Se as sodium selenite. After 35 days, the lambs were slaughtered, and the femur was dissected from the carcass of each animal and analyzed for morphometric, geometric, densitometric, and biomechanical properties. The dietary modifications, specifically the supplementation of FO and selenized yeast, significantly improved the geometric, densitometric, and biomechanical properties of lamb femur. Full article

2020

Jump to: 2023, 2022, 2021

17 pages, 2248 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multienzyme Super-Dosing in Broiler Chicken Diets: The Implications for Gut Morphology, Microbial Profile, Nutrient Digestibility, and Bone Mineralization

by Jacoba Madigan-Stretton, Deirdre Mikkelsen and Elham Assadi Soumeh

Animals 2021, 11(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010001 - 22 Dec 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2647

Abstract

Optimizing gut health has a large impact on nutrient digestibility and bioavailability, and super-dosing feed enzymes may be one solution to achieve this. A 42-day grow-out trial was conducted using 192 Ross 308 broilers to determine if super-dosing Natuzyme at 0 g/t, 350 [...] Read more.

Optimizing gut health has a large impact on nutrient digestibility and bioavailability, and super-dosing feed enzymes may be one solution to achieve this. A 42-day grow-out trial was conducted using 192 Ross 308 broilers to determine if super-dosing Natuzyme at 0 g/t, 350 g/t, 700 g/t, and 1000 g/t dose rates could improve the gut morphology, alter the cecal microbial profile, enhance bone mineralization, and improve nutrient digestibility of a wheat–corn–soybean diet (six replicates per treatment, eight birds per pen). One bird per pen was slaughtered at day 42 and gut morphology, cecal microbial profile, and nutrient digestibility were studied. The addition of enzymes tended to increase the villus height in the duodenum, villus height, width, and crypt depth in the jejunum, and villus width and the number of goblet cells in the ileum. Microbial profiling revealed diverse communities; however, they did not significantly differ between treatment groups. Yet, 700 g/t Natuzyme promoted microbes belonging to the genus Romboutsia and Ruminococcus gauvreauii, while 1000 g/t Natuzyme promoted Barnesiella species. The nutrient digestibility demonstrated a significant improvement in all enzyme doses compared to the control. In conclusion, based on the outcomes of this study, a dose rate of 700 g/t Natuzyme is recommended to improve gut morphology and nutrient digestibility, and promote unique microbes which aid in feed efficiency. Full article

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15 pages, 1211 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bisphenol A (BPA) Affects the Enteric Nervous System in the Porcine Stomach

by Krystyna Makowska and Sławomir Gonkowski

Animals 2020, 10(12), 2445; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10122445 - 20 Dec 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3121

Abstract

Bisphenol A (BPA) is widely utilized in plastic production process all over the world. Previous studies have shown that BPA, with its similarity to estrogen, may negatively affect living organisms. It is acknowledged that BPA distorts the activity of multiple internal systems, including [...] Read more.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is widely utilized in plastic production process all over the world. Previous studies have shown that BPA, with its similarity to estrogen, may negatively affect living organisms. It is acknowledged that BPA distorts the activity of multiple internal systems, including the nervous, reproductive, urinary, and endocrine systems. BPA also affects the gastrointestinal tract and enteric nervous system (ENS), which is placed throughout the wall from the esophagus to the rectum. Contrary to the intestine, the influence of BPA on the ENS in the stomach is still little known. This study, performed using the double immunofluorescence method, has revealed that BPA affects the number of nervous structures in the porcine gastric wall immunoreactive to vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT, a marker of cholinergic neurons), substance P (SP), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), galanin (GAL) and cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript peptide (CART). The character and severity of noted alterations depended on the part of the ENS, the BPA dose, and the type of neuronal substance. Administration of BPA resulted in an increase in the number of nervous structures containing SP, GAL, and/or CART, and a decrease in the number of cholinergic neurons in all parts of the gastric wall. The number of VIP-positive nervous structures increased in the enteric myenteric ganglia, along with the muscular and mucosal layers, whilst it decreased in the submucous ganglia. The exact mechanism of noted changes was not absolutely obvious, but they were probably related to the neuroprotective and adaptive processes constituting the response to the impact of BPA. Full article

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13 pages, 928 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Proteomic Analysis of Tear Film Obtained from Diabetic Dogs

by Dagmara Winiarczyk, Mateusz Winiarczyk, Stanisław Winiarczyk, Katarzyna Michalak and Łukasz Adaszek

Animals 2020, 10(12), 2416; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10122416 - 17 Dec 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2108

Abstract

Canine diabetes mellitus is a significant health burden, followed with numerous systemic complications, including diabetic cataracts and retinopathy, leading to blindness. Diabetes should be considered as a disease damaging all the body organs, including gastrointestinal tract, through a complex combination of vascular and [...] Read more.

Canine diabetes mellitus is a significant health burden, followed with numerous systemic complications, including diabetic cataracts and retinopathy, leading to blindness. Diabetes should be considered as a disease damaging all the body organs, including gastrointestinal tract, through a complex combination of vascular and metabolic pathologies, leading to impaired gut function. Tear film can be obtained in a non-invasive way, which makes it a feasible biomarker source. In this study we compared proteomic changes ongoing in tear film of diabetic dogs. The study group consisted of 15 diabetic dogs, and 13 dogs served as a control group. After obtaining tear film with Schirmer strips, we performed 2-dimensional electrophoresis, followed by Delta2D software analysis, which allowed to select statistically significant differentially expressed proteins. After their identification with MALDI-TOF (matrix assisted laser desorption and ionisation time of flight) spectrometry we found one up-regulated protein in tear film of diabetic dogs—SRC kinase signaling inhibitor 1 (SRCIN1). Eight proteins were down-regulated: phosphatidylinositol-4 kinase type 2 alpha (PI4KIIα), Pro-melanin concentrating hormone (Pro-MCH), Flotillin-1, Protein mono-ADP ribosyltransferase, GRIP and coiled coil domain containing protein 2, tetratricopeptide repeat protein 36, serpin, and Prelamin A/C. Identified proteins were analyzed by Panther Gene Ontology software, and their possible connections with diabetic etiopathology were discussed. We believe that this is the first study to target tear film proteome in canine diabetes. We believe that combined with traditional examination, the tear film proteomic analysis can be a new source of biomarkers both for clinical practice, and experimental research. Full article

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18 pages, 263 KiB

Open AccessReview

Selected Biological Medicinal Products and Their Veterinary Use

by Aleksandra Zygmuntowicz, Artur Burmańczuk and Włodzimierz Markiewicz

Animals 2020, 10(12), 2343; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10122343 - 09 Dec 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3627

Abstract

Definitions of biological medicinal products (BMPs) vary depending on the source. BMPs are manufactured using complex biological/biotechnological processes involving living cell lines, tissues and organisms such as microorganisms, plants, humans and even animals. Advances in modern biotechnological methods and genetic engineering have made [...] Read more.

Definitions of biological medicinal products (BMPs) vary depending on the source. BMPs are manufactured using complex biological/biotechnological processes involving living cell lines, tissues and organisms such as microorganisms, plants, humans and even animals. Advances in modern biotechnological methods and genetic engineering have made it possible to search for new drugs with a targeted effect and simultaneous reduction of adverse effects, which has resulted in BMPs dynamically increasing their share in the pharmaceutical market. Currently, these drugs are widely used in the treatment of many human diseases, but an increasing number of drugs of this group are also being used in the treatment of animals, mainly in dermatology, rheumatology and oncology. This article presents the current state of knowledge in the field of biological medicinal products used in animal therapy. Full article

15 pages, 898 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Concentrations of Circulating Irisin and Myostatin in Race and Endurace Purebred Arabian Horses—Preliminary Study

by Sylwester Kowalik, Anna Wiśniewska, Witold Kędzierski and Iwona Janczarek

Animals 2020, 10(12), 2268; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10122268 - 01 Dec 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2024

Abstract

Skeletal muscle is considered to be the largest endocrine organ determining the maintenance of energy homeostasis. Adaptive changes in skeletal muscles in response to physical exercise influence the production as well as secretion of myokines, which are bioactive factors that play a crucial [...] Read more.

Skeletal muscle is considered to be the largest endocrine organ determining the maintenance of energy homeostasis. Adaptive changes in skeletal muscles in response to physical exercise influence the production as well as secretion of myokines, which are bioactive factors that play a crucial role in energy expenditure processes. The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of two different types of exercise on the circulating level of two of these, myostatin and irisin, in trained horses. Twenty purebred Arabian horses were involved in the study: 10 three-year-old horses trained on the racetrack and 10 endurance horses aged 7.4 ± 1.9 years. The horses from both groups were regularly trained throughout the entire season, during which they also participated in Polish National competitions. To assess the influence of the training sessions on plasma myostatin and irisin concentrations, blood samples taken at rest and 30 min after the end of exercise were analyzed. In the studied horses, the single bout of exercise did not influence plasma irisin but induced an increase in plasma myostatin concentration. In racehorses, plasma irisin concentration decreased with the length of the training season. Plasma myostatin was higher in endurance horses than in three-year-old racehorses. Lack of exercise-induced fluctuation in circulating irisin in studied horses suggests that myostatin released in response to exercise provides a negative feedback signal to irisin release. Full article

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6 pages, 597 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

A Few TH-Immunoreactive Neurons Closely Appose DMX-Located Neuronal Somata Projecting to the Stomach Prepyloric Region in the Pig

by Jaroslaw Calka, Marta Ganko and Andrzej Rychlik

Animals 2020, 10(11), 2008; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10112008 - 31 Oct 2020

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1593

Abstract

The vagus nerve is responsible for efferent innervation and functional control of stomach functions. The efferent fibers originate from neurons located in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMX) and undergo functional control of the local neuroregulatory terminals. The aim of the [...] Read more.

The vagus nerve is responsible for efferent innervation and functional control of stomach functions. The efferent fibers originate from neurons located in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMX) and undergo functional control of the local neuroregulatory terminals. The aim of the present study was to examine the existence of morphological foundations for direct regulatory action of the local TH-immunoreactive neurons on parasympathetic efferent neurons supplying the prepyloric region of the porcine stomach. Combined injection of neuronal retrograde tracer Fast Blue into the stomach prepyloric region with TH immunostaining was used in order to visualize spatial relationship between DMX-located stomach prepyloric region supplying neuronal stomata and local TH-IR terminals. We confirmed existence of TH-immunoreactive neural terminals closely opposing the stomach prepyloric region innervating neurons at the porcine DMX area. The observed spatial relationship points out the possibility of indirect catecholaminergic control of the stomach function exerted through preganglionic parasympathetic efferent neurons in the pig. Full article

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13 pages, 266 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Fermented Soybean Meal on Salmonella typhimurium Infection in Neonatal Turkey Poults

by Arantxa Morales-Mena, Sergio Martínez-González, Kyle D. Teague, Lucas E. Graham, Roberto Señas-Cuesta, Christine N. Vuong, Howard Lester, Daniel Hernandez-Patlan, Bruno Solis-Cruz, Benjamin Fuente-Martinez, Xochitl Hernandez-Velasco, Billy M. Hargis and Guillermo Tellez-Isaias

Animals 2020, 10(10), 1849; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10101849 - 11 Oct 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2169

Abstract

This study’s objective was to evaluate the effect of the fermented soybean meal (FSBM) on Salmonella typhimurium (ST) to turkey poults using two models of infection. In the prophylactic model, one-day-old turkeys were randomly allocated to one of four different groups (n [...] Read more.

This study’s objective was to evaluate the effect of the fermented soybean meal (FSBM) on Salmonella typhimurium (ST) to turkey poults using two models of infection. In the prophylactic model, one-day-old turkeys were randomly allocated to one of four different groups (n = 30 turkeys/group): (1) Control group, (2) FSBM group, (3) Control group challenged with ST (Control + ST), and (4) FSBM group challenged with ST (FSBM + ST). On day 9 of age, all poults were orally challenged with 10⁶ colony forming units (CFU) ST and 24 h post-inoculation, intestinal samples were collected to determine ST recovery and morphometric analysis. Blood samples were collected to evaluate serum fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-d). In the therapeutic model, a similar experimental design was used, but turkeys were orally gavaged 10⁴ CFU ST on day 1, and samples were collected at day 7. FSBM improved performance and reduced leaky gut in both experimental infective models. In the prophylactic model, FSBB induced morphology changes in the mucosa. Although the strains (Lactobacillus salivarius and Bacillus licheniformis) used for the fermentation process showed in vitro activity against ST, no significant effect was observed in vivo. The fermentation with different beneficial bacteria and different inclusion rates of FSBM requires further investigation. Full article

13 pages, 1214 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bioavailability of Methionine-Coated Zinc Nanoparticles as a Dietary Supplement Leads to Improved Performance and Bone Strength in Broiler Chicken Production

by Ashraf Alkhtib, Dawn Scholey, Nicholas Carter, Gareth W.V. Cave, Belal I. Hanafy, Siani R.J. Kempster, Subbareddy Mekapothula, Eve T. Roxborough and Emily J. Burton

Animals 2020, 10(9), 1482; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10091482 - 24 Aug 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5569

Abstract

Recently, nanotechnology has been widely adopted in many fields. The goal of this study was to evaluate the potential for amino acid coated nano minerals as a supplement in broiler feed. Zinc was selected as a model mineral for this test and supplementation [...] Read more.

Recently, nanotechnology has been widely adopted in many fields. The goal of this study was to evaluate the potential for amino acid coated nano minerals as a supplement in broiler feed. Zinc was selected as a model mineral for this test and supplementation of nano zinc, both coated and uncoated was compared with organic and inorganic commercial forms of zinc. A total of 48 pens (8 birds each) were assigned to one of the following dietary treatments: Control, methionine-Zinc chelate (M-Zn), nano zinc oxide (Nano-ZnO), and methionine coated nano zinc oxide (M-Nano-ZnO). All experimental diets were formulated with the same total zinc, methionine, protein, and energy content with just the zinc source as a variable. Bird weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratios were recorded weekly, with three birds culled (sacrificed) at day 21 and day 35 for sampling measures. Ileal digestibility of zinc was determined at day 21 and day 35 using titanium dioxide as an inert marker. Blood serum, liver and spleen samples were collected at day 21 and day 35 and analysed for zinc content via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Tibia strength and morphometrics were measured from both legs of three birds per pen at day 21 and day 35. The study was conducted at Nottingham Trent University Poultry Unit, UK. The novel method of producing nano minerals coated with amino acids was successfully tested with zinc and material produced to test in the feeding study. Methionine coated nano zinc oxide supplementation significantly improved bird weight gain and the increased feed intake of broilers compared to an inorganic zinc form. Ileal digestibility was also improved with this methionine-nano zinc. Moreover, this supplementation improved the tibia strength of broilers at the age of 21 days, though this was not observed at day 35. Therefore, M-Nano-ZnO could be used to supplement broilers to improve both performance and digestibility with a limited positive impact on bone strength. The results of the current study suggest that the amino acid coating of nano minerals can improve the digestibility of minerals which may have further implications for the field of mineral nutrition in animal feeds. Full article

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13 pages, 1163 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enterococcus faecium Modulates the Gut Microbiota of Broilers and Enhances Phosphorus Absorption and Utilization

by Weiwei Wang, Huiyi Cai, Anrong Zhang, Zhimin Chen, Wenhuan Chang, Guohua Liu, Xuejuan Deng, Wayne L. Bryden and Aijuan Zheng

Animals 2020, 10(7), 1232; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10071232 - 20 Jul 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3249

Abstract

Modern broiler chickens have ongoing bone health problems. Phosphorus (P) plays an important role in bone development and increased understanding of P metabolism should improve the skeletal health of broilers. Enterococcus faecium has been widely used as a probiotic in broiler production and [...] Read more.

Modern broiler chickens have ongoing bone health problems. Phosphorus (P) plays an important role in bone development and increased understanding of P metabolism should improve the skeletal health of broilers. Enterococcus faecium has been widely used as a probiotic in broiler production and is shown to improve skeletal health of rats, but its effect on the bones of broilers remains unclear. This study investigated the effect of E. faecium on P absorption and utilization in broilers and the associated changes in the gut microbiota using 16S rDNA sequencing. Dietary supplementation with E. faecium improved P absorption through upregulation of the expression of intestinal NaP-IIb mRNA and increased the concentration of serum alkaline phosphatase. These actions increased P retention and bone mineralization in E. faecium-treated broilers. The positive effects of E. faecium on P metabolism were associated with changes in the populations of the intestinal microbiota. There was increased relative abundance of the following genera, Alistipes, Eubacterium, Rikenella and Ruminococcaceae and a decrease in the relative abundance of Faecalibacterium and Escherichia-Shigella. Dietary supplementation with E. faecium changed gut microbiota populations of broilers, increased the relative abundance of SCFA (short-chain fatty acid)-producing bacteria, improved intestinal P absorption and bone forming metabolic activities, and decreased P excretion. E. faecium facilitates increased utilisation of P in broilers. Full article

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15 pages, 286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Phytase Supplementation at Increasing Doses from 0 to 1500 FTU/kg on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, and Bone Status in Grower–Finisher Pigs Fed Phosphorus-Deficient Diets

by Eugeniusz R. Grela, Siemowit Muszyński, Anna Czech, Janine Donaldson, Piotr Stanisławski, Małgorzata Kapica, Oksana Brezvyn, Viktor Muzyka, Ihor Kotsyumbas and Ewa Tomaszewska

Animals 2020, 10(5), 847; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10050847 - 14 May 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2619

Abstract

The objective of the current study is to assess the effects of the inclusion of 6-n phytase to a phosphorous-deficient diet on the growth performance (feed intake, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio), apparent digestibility of calcium and phosphorus, and bone characteristics [...] Read more.

The objective of the current study is to assess the effects of the inclusion of 6-n phytase to a phosphorous-deficient diet on the growth performance (feed intake, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio), apparent digestibility of calcium and phosphorus, and bone characteristics of grower–finisher pigs. The experimental diets included a phosphorus-deficient diet containing 0 (negative control), 250, 500, 1000, or 1500 FTU/kg of 6-phytase, and a diet formulated to meet the phosphorus nutrient requirements of pigs (positive control). Pigs were fed the experimental diets from the time they were ~35 kg body weight until they reached slaughter weight of ~110 kg. Bone status of the metacarpal (ash, mineral content) and femur (mineralization, geometry, and mechanical strength) bones were assessed. There was no effect of dietary treatment on feed intake. Feed conversion ratio was improved following inclusion of phytase at a dose of 500 FTU/kg or higher. Phytase inclusion at a dose of 1000 FTU/kg increased the average daily weight gain of grower–finisher pigs. Phytase inclusion at a dose of 500 FTU/kg was sufficient to increase metacarpal phosphorus content. Femur mid-diaphysis ash percentage was significantly increased even after the inclusion of the lowest dose of phytase. Analysis of structural parameters of femur mechanical strength (Young’s modulus, yield stress, yield strain, ultimate stress, ultimate strain) showed that the inclusion of a phytase dose of 500 FTU/kg in growing/finishing diets was sufficient to significantly improve bone status of grower–finisher pigs at slaughter. Full article

22 pages, 315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Maternal Diet and Medium Chain Fatty Acids Supplementation for Piglets on Their Digestive Tract Development, Structure, and Chyme Acidity as Well as Performance and Health Status

by Małgorzata Świątkiewicz, Ewa Hanczakowska, Krzysztof Okoń, Piotr Kowalczyk and Eugeniusz R. Grela

Animals 2020, 10(5), 834; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10050834 - 11 May 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3060

Abstract

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of oils for sows during late pregnancy and lactation on offspring performance. In addition, the effect of caprylic acid (C8) or medium-chain triglyceride oil (MCT) in piglets’ feed on their gut development, [...] Read more.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of oils for sows during late pregnancy and lactation on offspring performance. In addition, the effect of caprylic acid (C8) or medium-chain triglyceride oil (MCT) in piglets’ feed on their gut development, performance, and health status was determined. The experiment was conducted on 24 sows allocated to two treatments: diet with rapeseed oil or with coconut oil. Newborn piglets were randomly allocated to three treatments: feed with no supplement or supplemented with 0.3% MCT or with 0.3% C8. The results showed that both oils had no effect on sow reproductive rates; however, fatty acid patterns of milk differed significantly and the number of lost piglets was lower in sow fed with coconut oil. Both caprylic and MCT oil significantly improved piglet performance and villus height. These additives did not change triacylglycerol content in blood, but C8 lowered total cholesterol and MCT increased IgG content. It can be concluded that coconut oil fed to pregnant and lactating sows can markedly reduce the mortality of piglets and that caprylic acid and medium-chain fatty acid oil can be a good supplement in weaned piglet feed. Full article

12 pages, 813 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Yeast (Saccharomyces Cerevisiae) Probiotics Supplementation on Bone Quality Characteristics in Young Japanese Quail (Coturnix Japonica): The Role of Sex on the Action of the Gut-Bone Axis

by Siemowit Muszyński, Piotr Dobrowolski, Kornel Kasperek, Sebastian Knaga, Małgorzata Kwiecień, Janine Donaldson, Mateusz Kutyła, Małgorzata Kapica and Ewa Tomaszewska

Animals 2020, 10(3), 440; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10030440 - 05 Mar 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2707

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the changes in bone geometry, histological structure, and selected mechanical characteristics in young male and female Japanese quails supplemented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Quails were fed a basal diet containing no yeast or a basal [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to investigate the changes in bone geometry, histological structure, and selected mechanical characteristics in young male and female Japanese quails supplemented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Quails were fed a basal diet containing no yeast or a basal diet supplemented with 1.5% (15 g per 1 kg of diet) of inactive S. cerevisiae, for a period of 42 days. S. cerevisiae inclusion had no effect on bone weight, length, and density, diaphysis geometry (cross-sectional area, wall thickness, moment of inertia) or on the mechanical strength (yield load, ultimate load, stiffness, Young’s modulus, yield stress, ultimate stress). Yeast supplementation improved the morphology of the articular cartilage both in male and female quails, as the total thickness of the articular cartilage was significantly increased. In trabecular bone, an increase in real bone volume and trabecular thickness was observed in females supplemented with S. cerevisiae, while in males the increase in trabecular number was accompanied by a reduction in trabecular thickness. The results of the present study demonstrate that S. cerevisiae, through a sex-dependent action on the gut-bone axis, improved the structure of articular cartilage and microarchitecture of trabecular bone. The positive effects of S. cerevisiae supplementation were more evident in female quails. Full article

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