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Fruit waste poses a significant global challenge, with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reporting that about 1.3 billion tons of food is wasted annually, contributing to environmental and economic challenges. The major fruit-producing countries (United States, China, India, and Brazil) are responsible for a large portion of this waste. Fruit waste contains different bioactive compounds like polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamins, and carotenoids, which are, in large part, underutilized regardless of their antioxidant properties. These compounds can play an important function in poultry nutrition, offering natural alternatives to synthetic antioxidants. Reintegrating fruit waste into poultry diets might have potent benefits on the nutritional quality and shelf life of eggs. Some studies reported that bioactive compounds from fruit waste improve the oxidative stability of eggs and the nutritional content, potentially extending shelf life during storage. Additionally, antioxidant compounds from fruit waste have been shown to improve yolk coloration and some egg quality parameters while reducing reactive oxygen species, which cause lipid oxidation. Their inclusion in poultry diets can lower feed costs, promote animal welfare, and reduce the environmental impact of fruit waste. This review highlights some key fruit wastes, such as citrus, apple, grape, rosehip, sea buckthorn, and banana, among others, which are natural reservoirs of bioactive compounds beneficial for poultry nutrition. This strategy aligns with FAO sustainability goals, addressing both food waste and animal nutrition challenges. Future studies should focus on optimizing the inclusion rates of these natural antioxidants in poultry diets to maximize their benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary oxidized oil and allicin (two different dietary sources) as natural antioxidants on the growth performance and meat quality of broilers. A total of 200 one-day-old Ross 308 broilers were randomly divided into four dietary groups (50 birds/group). The experimental groups (OO—oxidized oil; OOA—oxidized oil and allicin; OOG—oxidized oil and garlic leaves) differed from the control one by the presence of oxidized oil in their dietary structure (peroxide value 9.07 (OO, OOA and OOG groups) vs. 1.70 (C group) meq active oxygen/kg). The diets given to the experimental groups differed from each other by the presence of allicin (100 mg/kg inclusion rate as extract (OOA) and 0.5% as garlic leaf powder (OOG)). At the end of the experiment, six animals/group were slaughtered, meat samples (breast and thigh) were collected, and nutritional value was established. The results showed that the allicin included in the experimental diet did not influence the proximate composition of breast meat (crude protein, fat, ash, and dry matter). The fatty acid profile was determined for each group of samples; a significant decrease in omega 3 FAs was noticed between the C group and the E groups (3.27% vs. 1.46%, 1.60%, and 1.56%) in breast meat samples, and a corresponding increase was noticed in saturated fatty acid (SFA) concentrations. Health indices with implications for atheroma and thrombus formation and cholesterol level were negatively affected by the presence of oxidized oil in the experimental diets, but the allicin extract supplement appeared to mitigate its influence. A positive influence of the dietary supplement was noticed on antioxidant capacity and polyphenol concentrations determined in breast and thigh samples under allicin supplement influence. The results of the current study revealed that the use of low oxidized oil in broilers diets did not affect productive performance. The nutritional quality of meat (breast and thigh) was negatively influenced by the presence of oxidized oil, but allicin supplements (extract or garlic leaves) improved lipid quality indices and antioxidant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document discusses feeding strategies and quality assessments of animal-derived products, emphasizing the importance of these strategies in influencing animal health, productivity, and the quality of products like meat, eggs, and milk. Various techniques are explored, including formulating balanced diets and using alternative feed sources to meet consumer demands for safer products. The document also highlights research articles from six different countries, focusing on topics such as sustainable feeding strategies, nutritional solutions for small ruminants, and the impact of different feeding systems on animal health and meat quality. [Extracted from the article]

Influenza viruses continue to be an important public health threat. Vaccination is the most effective measure to control the influenza virus circulation. However, these viruses are continuously evolving through antigenic drift/shift, and thus the vaccine efficiency is affected. The aim of this study was to characterize the viral strains circulating in Romania, in a population with declining vaccination coverage, during the last three cold seasons by evaluating the hemagglutinin antigenic relatedness to the vaccine strains. All the available sequences collected between August 2021 and June 2024 were analyzed by using phylogenetic analysis and the Pepitope model to predict vaccine efficacy. The results showed that the 2021/2022 influenza season was dominated by the circulation of highly diverse clades of A(H3N2) viruses with high mutational divergence as compared to the vaccine strain, which might contribute to the reduction in vaccine efficacy. During the 2022/2023 influenza season, both influenza A and B viruses were reported, with few antigenic site mutations. The 2023/2024 influenza season was dominated by the circulation of influenza A viruses: A/H1N1pdm09 clade 6B.1A.5a.2a and A/H3N2 clade 2a.3a.1. The clade 2a.3a.1 also showed high variability when compared to the vaccine strain, presumably leading to reduced vaccine efficacy. This study illustrates the high diversity of influenza viruses circulating in a population with low vaccination coverage during the previous cold seasons. The viral diversity impacted vaccine efficacy, hence the need for public health programs to increase vaccine uptake and improve vaccine formulation in order to limit viral transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tuning sensitivity towards CO2 detection under in-field-like conditions was investigated using SnO2-sensitive material deposited onto Al2O3 substrates provided with platinum electrodes with interdigital gaps of 100 µm and 30 µm. X-ray diffraction, low-magnification and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and electrical and contact potential difference investigations were employed to understand the sensing mechanism involved in CO2 detection. The morpho-structural analysis revealed that the SnO2 nanoparticles exhibit well-defined facets along the (110) and (101) crystallographic planes. Complex phenomenological investigations showed that moisture significantly affects the gas sensing performance. The experimental results corroborated the literature evidence, highlighting the importance of Pt within the interdigital electrodes subsequently reflected in the increase in the CO2 sensing performance with the decrease in the interdigital gap. The catalytic efficiency is explained by the distribution of platinum at the gas-Pt-SnO2 three-phase boundary, which is critical for enhancing the sensor performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As global demand increases for poultry products, innovative feeding strategies that reduce resource efficiency and improve food safety are urgently needed. This paper explores the potential of alternative sustainable poultry feeding strategies aimed at achieving SDG2 (Zero Hunger) while increasing production performance and food quality, focusing on the potential recycling of by-products, plants, and food waste derived from fruits, vegetables, and seeds, which account for up to 35% annually. The paper provides a review analysis of the nutritional (protein, fat, fiber, and ash) and minerals (i.e., calcium, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, copper, and iron) content as well as the bioactive compounds (polyphenols, antioxidants, carotenoids, fatty acids, and vitamins) of alternative feed ingredients, which can contribute to resource efficiency, reduce dependency on conventional feeds, and lower production costs by 25%. The nutritional benefits of these alternative feed ingredients, including their effects on poultry production and health, and their potential for improving poultry product quality, are presented. Carrot, paprika, rosehip, and some berry waste represent a great source of carotenoids, polyphenols, and vitamins, while the seed meals (flax, rapeseed, and sea buckthorn) have been reported to enhance the essential fatty acid composition in eggs and meat. Numerous plants (basil, sage, rosemary, and lettuce) are natural reservoirs of bioactive compounds with benefits for both animal and food products. Some challenges in implementing these alternative sustainable feeding strategies, including inconsistencies in quality and availability, the presence of anti-nutrients, and regulatory barriers, are also explored. In conclusion, future research directions in sustainable poultry feeding with alternative feed ingredients should be considered to achieve SDG2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the bioaccessibility and biostability of carotenoids, vitamin E isomers, and individual polyphenolic compounds after the in vitro gastrointestinal digestion of two types of berries (raspberry and blackberry fruits). The results of the polyphenols analysis showed that raspberry fruits contained higher concentrations of hydroxybenzoic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, flavanols, and flavonols compared to blackberry fruits, but exhibited the lowest bioaccessibility values for all the studied polyphenol classes. Ellagic acid represented 13.63% and 2.65% of the hydroxybenzoic acids in raspberry and blackberry fruits. The hydroxybenzoic acids exhibited the highest bioaccessibility index in the intestinal phase of both types of berries, and gallic acid emerged as one of the most bioaccessible phenolic compounds. The bioaccessibility of carotenoids ranged between 15.7 and 17.30% for lutein, 5.52 and 7.56% for astaxanthin, and 7.85 and 9.93% for canthaxanthin, with elevated values being observed in raspberry fruits. Although vitamin E and carotenoids follow a similar path for absorption, the bioaccessibility of vitamin E isomers was higher than that of carotenoids, with γ-tocopherol being the most bioaccessible isomer in both raspberries and blackberries. Knowing the bioaccessibility of food constituents during digestion is crucial, as the potential effectiveness of bioactives for human health largely depends on the bioavailability of these molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food industry is intensifying its effort to enrich food composition in various nutrients through animal feeding, but these challenges can be limited by the costly feed resources, water scarcity, and pesticide pollution, making it crucial to explore alternative feedstuffs with fewer requirements. Blackthorns and hawthorns are characterized by their rich phytochemical and antioxidant profiles, suggesting their potential to enhance the performance of ruminants though the supply of bioactive substances. Our study revealed their rich composition of micronutrients; hawthorns showed a remarkable amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids (57.23 g FAME/100 g total FAME), particularly omega-3 and omega-6, while blackthorn presented higher concentration of monounsaturated fatty acids, specifically oleic acid (56.99 g FAME/100 g total FAME). In terms of lipo-soluble antioxidants, blackthorn exhibited higher levels of xanthophyll and vitamin E (123.83 mg/kg DM), including its isomers (alpha, gamma, and delta). Concerning the water-soluble antioxidants, hawthorns showed elevated composition of the total content of flavonoids and polyphenols, comparing with blackthorn. Moreover, hawthorns showed a high antioxidant capacity, as assessed through DPPH, ABTS, and TAC analyses. In terms of the scavenging capacity of blackthorn and hawthorn against superoxide radicals, blackthorn had higher radical scavenging potential against superoxide radicals, compared to hawthorn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the influence of synthesis methods and electrode geometry on the physico-chemical properties of 5%Gd-doped SnO2. Two distinct synthesis routes, co-precipitation and hydrothermal growth, were employed, resulting in powders denoted as SnO2: Gd 5%-CP and SnO2: Gd 5%-HT. Morpho-structural and textural analyses reveal a uniform morphology consisting of quasi-spherical nanoparticles with dimensions of ~6 nm and mesoporosity for CP and a non-uniform morphology with larger nanoparticles of ~42 nm, with irregular shapes and macroporosity for the HT sample, respectively. The powders were deposited onto alumina substrates equipped with platinum interdigital electrodes with alternative gaps of 200 μm and 100 μm. The back-side heater allows for variation in the temperature of the layer. Sensing properties assessed under in-field-like atmospheres simulated by a computer-controlled Gas Mixing System reveal higher sensitivity to methane compared to carbon dioxide. Although the sensor signals did not differ quantitatively, they exhibited distinct saturation tendencies with an increasing methane concentration, attributed to the morpho-structure and porosity induced by the synthesis method. Differentiation was achieved by varying the interdigital gap of the electrodes, highlighting different sensor signals and conduction mechanisms, determined by the specific size of the crystallites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the impact of Chlorella vulgaris supplementation in broilers' diet, alone or in combination with vitamin E, on meat quality parameters, nutritional value, and oxidative stability during storage time. An experiment was conducted on 180 COBB 500 broiler chickens (14 days old), assigned into six treatments, following a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement. A corn–soybean meal diet was supplemented with three levels of C. vulgaris (0% in group C1, 1% in E1, 2% in E2), two levels of vitamin E (0% in C1, 250 ppm in C2), and a combination of them (1% C. vulgaris + 250 ppm vitamin (E3), 2% C. vulgaris + 250 ppm vitamin (E4)). Dietary incorporation of C. vulgaris, including those supplemented with vitamin E, resulted in a significant increase in meat protein content. DPA and DHA levels increased by 2.01-fold and 1.60-fold in the 2% C. vulgaris + vitamin E group. The PUFA/SFA ratio was increased across all dietary treatments (p < 0.0001). HPI and h/H registered the highest values as a result of 2% C. vulgaris supplementation, being linked with a positive effect in lowering cholesterol levels. Supplementation with 2% C. vulgaris and vitamin E exhibited a 1.45-fold increase in vitamin E concentration in thigh meat compared to the control group, being the highest level registered in thigh meat in this experiment. Metmyoglobin concentrations registered lower values in the thigh meat of the experimental groups, while deoxymyoglobin increased in the same groups when compared to the control group. The inclusion of C. vulgaris (1% and 2%) in combination with vitamin E (250 mg/kg) in broiler diets exhibited the best prevention of lipid oxidation after 7 days of refrigerated storage, defined by the highest efficiency factors assessed in terms of secondary oxidation products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study evaluated the impact of incorporating flax seeds or a flax and mustard seeds' mixture into goats' diets to enhance milk polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The incorporation of mustard seeds also aimed to slow the lipid oxidation process. A three-week feeding trial was conducted on 18 lactating goats, randomly distributed in three groups: control (C), FS (replacing 12% of the oil source with flax seeds), and FMS (replacing a quarter of flax seeds with mustard seeds). Flax seed inclusion improved the quality of milk fat by reducing saturated fatty acid concentration (p = 0.004) and increasing PUFA levels (p = 0.001). Both experimental groups significantly lowered the omega 6/omega 3 fatty acid ratio (p < 0.001). The FMS group showed a significantly higher total vitamin E concentration (p = 0.007). The fat oxidation parameters revealed that after 24 h of storage at room temperature, the p-anisidine value increased for the FS group compared to the C group, while the FSM group showed no significant difference, suggesting that the combined inclusion of flax and mustard seeds may prolong milk storage time by mitigating secondary oxidation products. This highlights the potential benefits of incorporating the studied seeds into goats' diets for improving milk quality and extending its shelf life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to compare the nutrient composition, antioxidant potential, and polyphenol bioaccessibility of the fruit, leaves, and pomace of black chokeberry. Phytochemical characterization, antioxidant activity, and the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the individual phenolic compounds of fruit, leaves, and pomace of black chokeberry were assessed. Results showed that leaves had a higher content of polyphenols (61.06 mg GAE/g dw), flavonoids (8.47 mg QE/g), and tocopherols (1172.20 mg/kg) than fruit (27.99 mg GAE/g dw polyphenols, 5.23 mg QE/g flavonoids, 38.48 mg/kg tocopherols) and pomace (22.94 mg GAE/g dw polyphenols, 1.89 mg QE/g flavonoids and 157.19 mg/kg tocopherols), with superior in vitro antioxidant activity. Chlorogenic acids were the dominant phenolic compounds in black chokeberry undigested samples (2.713 mg/g in fruit, 17.954 mg/g in leaves, and 1.415 mg/g in pomace) but are poorly absorbed (bioaccessibility index in intestinal phase of 28.84% for fruit, 8.81% for leaves, and 31.90% for pomace). Hydroxybenzoic acids were highly stable in leaves and fruit during simulated digestion and had high bioaccessibility. In conclusion, residues from black chokeberry processing are also valuable sources of bioactive compounds, but the pomace had higher polyphenol bioaccessibility than leaves and might be a promising supplement for the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The livestock industry is undergoing significant transformation with the integration of intelligent technologies aimed at enhancing productivity, welfare, and sustainability. This review explores the latest advancements in intelligent systemization (IS), including real-time monitoring, machine learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT), and their impacts on livestock farming. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of how these technologies can address industry challenges by improving animal health, optimizing resource use, and promoting sustainable practices. The methods involve an extensive review of the current literature and case studies on intelligent monitoring, data analytics, automation in feeding and climate control, and renewable energy integration. The results indicate that IS enhances livestock well-being through real-time health monitoring and early disease detection, optimizes feeding efficiency, and reduces operational costs through automation. Furthermore, these technologies contribute to environmental sustainability by minimizing waste and reducing the ecological footprint of livestock farming. This study highlights the transformative potential of intelligent technologies in creating a more efficient, humane, and sustainable livestock industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum L.) is a berry bush widely cultivated in Europe for producing juices, jams, jellies, and syrups. In addition to berries, blackcurrant leaves and pomace, as byproducts, have also been shown to have health-promoting effects. Static digestion, simulating oral, gastric, and small intestinal digestion, was applied, and blackcurrant leaves, fruits, and pomace and the polyphenol bioaccessibility were evaluated in terms of recovery index. The results were related to sample type, and the recovery index presented higher values in the case of fruits, indicating this morphological part of blackcurrant as the most bioaccessible. The antioxidant potential of blackcurrant was evaluated using four different methods, with the leaves proving to be a significant and powerful antioxidant compared to fruits and pomace. The counteracting potential of inhibiting the oxidation process was evaluated using in vitro-induced lipid peroxidation and the inhibition potential of superoxide and hydroxyl anions. The antioxidant evaluation and the inhibition of biological and non-biological radicals indicate the leaf extract is the most powerful antioxidant studied. Also, the results proved that not only fruits but also the blackcurrant byproducts (pomace and leaves) are promising sources of bioaccessible antioxidants with potential benefits in animal nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to investigate the impact of dietary bilberry leaves on the performance, health status, and gut microbiota of broilers reared in both thermoneutral conditions and under heat stress. Sixty Cobb 500 broiler chicks were divided into two groups (C-TN, BL-TN) and reared in thermoneutral conditions for the first trial. For the second trial, two other groups (C-HS and BL-HS) were reared in heat stress (32 °C), with 30 chickens in each group. The experimental diets were supplemented with 1% bilberry leaves compared to the control diets. The broilers fed a diet with bilberry leaves had lower levels of cholesterol compared to the control birds. At the end of the experiment, six broilers per group were slaughtered, and intestinal contents were collected for bacteriological analyses. The results revealed that bilberry leaves increased body weight and average daily feed intake in the BL-TN group compared to the C-HS group. However, the broilers fed a bilberry leaves diet and reared in heat stress had a significantly lower average daily feed intake and average daily weight gain than the C-TN group. Additionally, the number of staphylococci colonies decreased significantly in the group fed with a BL-supplemented diet and reared in TN compared to C-TN, while lactobacilli increased significantly in BL-TN compared to C-TN. In summary, bilberry leaves can be used as a natural supplement in a broiler's diet to regulate serum cholesterol in heat stress and maintain the health of intestinal microflora in thermoneutral conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this research was nutritional evaluation through the phytochemical analysis of blackberry and raspberry leaves, the screening of their biological activity (antioxidant capacity and inhibition of lipid peroxidation), and the investigation of the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion (GID) of blackberry and raspberry leaves on the bioaccessibility of polyphenol subclasses. The concentrations of the analyzed liposoluble antioxidants were higher (p < 0.05) in blackberry leaves compared to raspberry leaves, while a significant (p < 0.05) higher content of water-soluble antioxidants was registered in raspberry leaves (with a total polyphenol content of 26.2 mg GAE/g DW of which flavonoids accounted for 10.6 mg/g DW). Blackberry leaves had the highest antioxidant capacity inhibition of the superoxide radicals (O2•−), while raspberry leaves registered the highest inhibition of hydroxyl radicals (•OH), suggesting a high biological potency in scavenging-free radicals under in vitro systems. The maximum inhibition percentage of lipid peroxidation was obtained for blackberry leaves (24.86% compared to 4.37% in raspberry leaves), suggesting its potential to limit oxidative reactions. Simulated in vitro digestion showed that hydroxybenzoic acids registered the highest bioaccessibility index in the intestinal phase of both types of leaves, with gallic acid being one of the most bioaccessible phenolics. The outcomes of this investigation reveal that the most significant release of phenolic compounds from blackberry and raspberry leaves occurs either during or after the gastric phase. Knowledge about the bioaccessibility and stability of polyphenol compounds during digestion can provide significant insights into the bioavailability of these molecules and the possible effectiveness of plant metabolites for human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review delves into the concept of nutrition by design, exploring the relationship between poultry production, the utilization of dietary by-products to create functional foods, and their impact on human health. Functional foods are defined as products that extend beyond their basic nutritional value, offering potential benefits in disease prevention and management. Various methods, including extraction, fermentation, enrichment, biotechnology, and nanotechnology, are employed to obtain bioactive compounds for these functional foods. This review also examines the innovative approach of enhancing livestock diets to create functional foods through animal-based methods. Bioactive compounds found in these functional foods, such as essential fatty acids, antioxidants, carotenoids, minerals, vitamins, and bioactive peptides, are highlighted for their potential in promoting well-being and mitigating chronic diseases. Additionally, the review explores the functionality of food components within these products, emphasizing the critical roles of bioaccessibility, bioactivity, and bioavailability in promoting health. The importance of considering key aspects in the design of enhanced poultry diets for functional food production is thoroughly reviewed. The safety of these foods through the establishment of regulations and guidelines was reviewed. It is concluded that the integration of nutrition by design principles empowers individuals to make informed choices that can prioritize their health and well-being. By incorporating functional foods rich in bioactive compounds, consumers can proactively take steps to prevent and manage health issues, ultimately contributing to a healthier society and lifestyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consequently, the animals are not only better equipped to endure potential health challenges but also thrive, achieving their growth potential and manifesting their genetic traits to the fullest, showing the profound correlation between the growth performance and nutritional quality of animal diets. Feeding strategies play a crucial role in determining the nutritional quality of animal products. The findings of this study highlighted the advantageous impact of the investigated feed additives on health status by reducing total cholesterol levels when compared with synthetic feed additives. Animal health is a comprehensive concept that encompasses various factors that contribute to the overall well-being of animals, with a critical focus on gut health and the immune system. [Extracted from the article]

Background: While communication plays an important role in medicine, it also often represents a challenge when the topic at hand is the prognosis of a high-risk condition. When it comes to pediatric oncology, the challenge becomes even greater for physicians who have to adapt their discourse to both the child and their family. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, an advanced search on PubMed, Scopus and the Cochrane Library was performed, from 1 January 2017 to 31 October 2022. Demographic data for caregivers, pediatric patients and physicians were extracted, as well as diagnosis, prognosis, presence at discussion, emotional states and impact on life, trust, decision roles, communication quality and other outcomes. Results: A total of 21 articles were analyzed. Most studies (17) focused on caregivers, while only seven and five studies were focused on children and physicians, respectively. Most parents reported high trust in their physicians (73.01%), taking the leading role in decision making (48%), moderate distress levels (46.68%), a strong desire for more information (78.64%), receiving high-quality information (56.71%) and communication (52.73%). Most children were not present at discussions (63.98%); however, their desire to know more was expressed in three studies. Moreover, only two studies observed children being involved in decision making. Most physicians had less than 20 years of experience (55.02%) and reported the use of both words and statistics (47.3%) as a communication method. Conclusions: Communication research is focused more on caregivers, yet children may understand more than they seem capable of and want to be included in the conversation. More studies should focus on and quantify the opinions of children and their physicians. In order to improve the quality of communication, healthcare workers should receive professional training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on a process for dairy wastewater treatment by mixotrophic cultivation of microalgae Nannochloris sp., using cheese whey obtained as a side flow from cheese production as an organic carbon source. The microalgae samples were prepared by adding to the standard growth medium increasing amounts of cheese whey, calculated to ensure a lactose concentration between 0 and 10 g/L. The samples were incubated at a constant temperature of 28 °C and 175 rpm stirring speed for a total time of seven days. Two LED (Light Emitting Diode) illumination schemes were applied in order to assess the effect of this parameter on microalgae development and bioactive compound accumulation: continuous illumination (light stress) versus alternative cycles of 12 h light—12 h dark (day–night cycle). The growth medium was analyzed before and after microalgae cultivation in order to determine the reduction of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. The results obtained for this process, after a seven-day cultivation period, were as follows: reduction of 99–100% of lactose from the growth medium, up to 96% reduction in chemical oxygen demand, up to 91% reduction in nitrogen content, and up to 70% reduction in phosphorus content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary sources of bioactive compounds in animal diets, are the natural way to produce animal food products with improved nutritional quality. The present study aimed to test the hypothesis of a synergistic effect of bioactive compounds of cranberry leaf powder and walnut meal on the nutritional quality and antioxidant compounds of broiler meat. An experiment was conducted on 160 COBB 500 broiler chickens, housed in an experimental hall with permanent wood shave litter in boxes of 3 m2. The six dietary treatments were based on corn and soybean meal; three experimental groups were fed diets supplemented with cranberry leaves (CLs) with three inclusion rates (0% in the control group and CL 1% and CL 2%); two experimental groups were fed diets supplemented with walnut meal (WM) with two inclusion rates (0% and WM 6%); and two groups were fed diets with a combination of the selected supplements (CL 1% WM 6% and CL 2% WM 6%). The results show that the experimental groups registered higher concentrations of copper and iron compared with the control group. An antagonist effect was noticed on lipophilic compounds, and the lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations presented a dose-dependent increasing effect under CL influence, while vitamin E concentrations decreased in the same manner. The dietary WM positively influenced vitamin E deposits on breast tissue. The dietary supplements did not produce any effect on the primary oxidation products, but the secondary products were influenced, and the maximum effect on the TBARS values were recorded for the dietary combination of CL 1% and WM 6%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the use of antibiotics has been banned or reduced in certain countries in animal industries, the search for new alternatives to antibiotics has been and will continue to be a research subject in poultry for several years. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of basil, thyme and sage essential oils (EO) in broiler chickens' diets. A total of 120 Cobb 500 broiler chickens aged 12 days were distributed into four homogeneous groups of thirty chickens with six replicates of five broilers each, raised until 42 days of age. For the diets, corn, soybean meal, corn gluten and wheat were used as the main ingredients for the control diet (CON), and three experimental diets were formulated as follows: a diet containing 0.05% essential oil from basil (EOB), a diet containing 0.05% essential oil from thyme (EOT), and a diet containing 0.05% essential oil from sage (EOS). The results showed that production performances, European Production Efficiency Factor (EPEF), European Broiler Index (EBI) and carcass weight were improved (p < 0.05) in the experimental groups compared with the control; however, no significant effect in anatomical parts development was observed. Lightness (L *) and hue angle (H *) colorimetric meat parameters were (p < 0.05) altered but without an effect on meat texture. The antioxidant capacity and total polyphenols content in the thigh meat and total n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids were higher in the experimental samples compared with the control. The intestinal microbiota was also significantly altered with a lowering of Escherichia coli, Coliforms and staphylococci in the small intestine and caecum and an increased lactobacilli count in the experimental groups compared with the control. Overall, all EO-supplemented diets showed the potential to improve meat quality; however, EOS was more effective in altering the chicken microbiota in the small intestine and caecum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implication of heat stress (HS) in the oxidative stress phenomenon and its related diseases in chickens has been widely reported. Salicin is a precursor for the synthesis of salicylic acid and aspirin obtained from the bark of Salix alba, with an undeniable anti-inflammatory effect. However, little attention has been paid to salicin's antioxidant/oxidative stress-reducing effect compared to its well-known anti-inflammatory effect. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of dietary salicin standardized extract from Salix alba bark (SAB) on oxidative stress biomarkers and intestinal microflora of broiler chickens exposed to heat stress. In our study, chickens (14 days) were randomly allocated to three treatment groups (SAB0; SAB25; SAB50), each of which included five replicates with eight birds per replicate. Broilers were exposed to heat stress (32 ± 2 °C) between 14 and 42 days. The liver tissues were collected to analyze oxidative stress biomarkers (total antioxidant capacity, glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase). The intestinal content was collected and measurements of the intestinal microbial population were performed (E. coli, staphylococci, lactobacilli). Results indicated that liver malondialdehyde and protein carbonyls activity decreased (p  < 0.05) in SAB50 treatment concomitantly with linearly increased total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione concentration. Dietary supplementation with SAB reduced (p < 0.05) the abundance of staphylococci and increased the number of lactobacilli. Taken together, SAB possesses an advantageous effect on liver oxidative status and the balance of intestinal microflora in broilers exposed to heat stress. These findings provide new insight into the potential use of salicin standardized extract from Salix alba bark for liver damage prevention and dysbiosis related to heat stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonbiodegradable food packaging films are made from plastics such as polyethylene and polypropylene, which can take hundreds of years to decompose and create environmental hazards. On the other hand, biodegradable food packaging films are made from renewable materials such as corn starch or cellulose, that degrade within a few weeks or months and prove to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly. In this work, we used corn starch hydrolyzed (CSH) with α-amylase to prepare a film with biodegradable properties. The film was tested for 60 days at different accelerated temperatures and relative humidity (RH), 13 ± 2 °C and 65 ± 5% RH, 23 ± 2 °C and 45 ± 5% RH, and 33 ± 2 °C and 30 ± 5% RH, to test its durability and stability. Soil biodegradation of the CSH film was evaluated by visual appearance, microscopic observation, weight loss, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) every 6 days. The film was found to have strong hygroscopic properties and was able to last up to 10 months if it is maintained at 20 ± 5 °C and 45 ± 5% RH. After the biodegradability test for at least 30 days, the film showed a significantly higher weight loss rate and microbial activity on the surface of the film, which indicates that the film is biodegradable. The present work recommends biodegradable CSH films as an excellent environmentally friendly choice for dried foods packaging, due to their good shelf life at room temperature, which is beneficial when shipping and storing products, but these films are not suitable for foods with high moisture content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of ultrasound irradiation on the algal biomass productivity as well as its oil content and fatty acids profile, grown in a modified Zarrouk medium, i.e., deproteinized whey waste solution, was investigated. The algal samples (Nannochloris sp. 424-1 microalgae) were grown for 7 days in a thermostated incubator at 28 °C, shaken under continuous light. During this period, the algal biomass was subjected to induced stress by ultrasonic irradiation at different powers and sonication time. The obtained results demonstrate that ultrasound stressing of algae biomass has a positive effect on both the quantity of biomass and the oil obtained, also causing a shift in fatty acid composition by increasing the proportion of C16 and C18 polyunsaturated fatty acids. A low dosage level of exposure to the ultrasound led to algal biomass increase as well as lipid accumulation. For both types of irradiation modes which were investigated, daily and only initial irradiation, the beneficial effect of the ultrasound decreases as the exposure time increases and the excessive sonication becomes detrimental to microalgae growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to assess the effects of the dietary supplementation of microencapsulated L. acidophilus and L. plantarum and their combination on the growth performance, organ development, diarrhoea incidences, blood profiles, intestinal histomorphology and microflora in weaned piglets. For that, 160 piglets with an average body weight (BW) of 8.52 ± 0.15 kg were divided into four groups (40 piglets/group) and allotted to one of the four dietary treatments as follows: a basal diet (C diet) or a basal diet containing 1 × 108 CFU/g of L. acidophilus (LA diet), or a diet containing 3 × 108 CFU/g of L. plantarum (LP diet) and a diet with the combination of both bacterial strains (LA + LP diet) for 21 days. On day 14, probiotics significantly increased ADFI, while FCR was higher in the LA and LP groups than the C and LA + LP groups. No effects (p > 0.05) on visceral organs weight, intestinal pH and biochemical parameters among treatments were noticed. Treatments significantly lowered diarrhoea incidence compared to control. Villus width was greater (p < 0.05) in all small intestinal segments in piglets fed probiotics. In the jejunum and ileum villus length, crypt length, and total villi length were higher (p < 0.05), particularly in the LA + LP group. The probiotics, particularly the LA + LP group, modulated the cecal, jejunum and ileum microbial community structure and increased (p < 0.05) the amount of Lactobacillus spp. while decreasing the populations of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus. Our results indicated that dietary supplementation of microencapsulated probiotics, particularly the combination of L. plantarum and L acidophilus strains, maintained growth performance, lowered diarrhoea incidence and beneficially altered the intestinal architecture and microbial populations of weaned piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there have been growing concerns about finding alternatives to fossil fuels, and biomass could be one of them. To ensure the production of biogas as one of the alternative sources, the development of anaerobic digestion technologies for agricultural and animal waste is one of the promising directions. In this work, the process of biogas production from different types of solid substrates and microalgae was studied using an automatic gas flow measurement system. The biogas flow rate was monitored throughout the process. In order to use the digestate resulting from biogas production as a soil improver, the content of macroelements was analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The valorization potential of lignin-rich residual red liquor, derived from wood processing for cellulose manufacturing, was investigated through two distinct experimental pathways: a slow pyrolysis and a catalytic pyrolysis process. The biochar quality and pyrolysis oil composition obtained after each process were studied and compared. A nickel-based alumina-supported catalyst was proposed for the catalytic pyrolysis process, highlighting a capacity for deoxygenating aromatic compounds present in the pyrolysis oil, favoring the formation of furan and alkylated benzene compounds. On the other hand, the use of a catalytic process led to a decrease in surface area for the obtained biochar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposed an approach for the enhancement of coarse wool from a Romanian sheep breed—Țurcana—for its utilization as a sustainable and efficient thermal insulation material. The process involved washing with a non-polar solvent, to eliminate lanoline and impurities from the raw sheep wool, followed by an impregnation with a binder, dolomite, and copper nanoparticles. The structural and elemental changes were analyzed using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) techniques. The antimicrobial effects of copper nanoparticles were analyzed on two bacterial strains. The proposed enhancement process creates a barrier against harmful biodeterioration activities by bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the consumer trend towards healthier food choices is unquestionable. Meat products enriched with nutrients, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, are gaining much more interest among consumers. However, products are susceptible to quality deterioration and a short shelf‑life of meat through lipid oxidation due to the lack of antioxidants in the meat. In this regard, the efficacy of dietary sea buckthorn leaves (Hippophaë rhamnoides L.) together with Chromium on the nutritional quality of meat and lipid oxidative stability was investigated. An ex‑ periment (28 days long) was carried out on 90 Cobb 500 chickens assigned into three treatments: a control treatment based on corn and soybean meal, without Chromium (T0) and two treatments sup‑ plemented either with 0.00002% Chromium (T1) or with 0.00002% Chromium and 2% sea buckthorn leaves (T2). Dietary supplementation of SBL and Cr improved the PUFA/MUFA ratio, DHA concen‑ tration and decreased the n‑6/n‑3 ratio compared to the other treatments. Moreover, the breast and thigh meat belonging to T1 and T2 treatments showed a higher concentration of lutein and zeaxan‑ thin, Fe and Zn and expressed a higher antioxidant capacity compared to those from T0. Further‑ more, n‑6 and n‑3 PUFA deposited preferentially in the thigh meat rather than in the breast meat. The results from the study showed that dietary SBL and Cr significantly improved the fatty acid pat‑ tern and the oxidative stability of chicken breast meat, lowering the TBARS level after storage. In conclusion, SBL and Cr are promising dietary bioactive compounds with beneficial effects to obtain nutrient‑enriched meat products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eggs are a common food of animal origin, inexpensive, and rich in bioactive substances with high biological value. Eggs enriched in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are extremely desired by the progressive consumer. However, during storage, eggs undergo some physiochemical changes, which decrease their value. In this regard, the effect of dietary rosehip meal and flaxseed meal on hens' egg quality characteristics, amino acids, fatty acids, health-related indices, antioxidant capacity, total polyphenols content, and shelf life was examined. For this study 120 Tetra SL laying hens, 29 weeks of age, were fed, for 4 weeks, three diets that included control (basal diet—RF0), basal diet + 1.5% rosehip and 7% flaxseed meal (RF1), and basal diet + 3% rosehip and 7% flaxseed meal (RF2). Productive performance of hens were recorded. The content of essential amino acids (EAA), antioxidant amino acids (AAA), and sulfur amino acids (SAA) was higher in RF1 and RF2, compared with RF0. Eggs belonging to the RF1 and RF2 groups had significantly (p < 0.05) higher content of n-3 PUFAs, especially linolenic and docosahexaenoic acids. Total antioxidant capacity and polyphenol content increased in both rosehip supplemented groups, but especially in RF2. Moreover, eggs from RF1 and RF2 groups maintained significantly higher egg quality parameters after storage for 14 and 28 days in the refrigerator (5 °C) and ambient temperature (21 °C), compared with those from the RF0 group. In the Haugh unit, yolk and albumen pH presented better values in RF1 and RF2 eggs compared to the RF0 eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Special attention has recently been paid to surface-defective titanium dioxide and black TiO2 with advanced optical, electrical, and photocatalytic properties. Synthesis of these materials for photodegradation and mineralization of persistent organic pollutants in water, especially under visible radiation, presents interest from scientific and application points of view. Chemical reduction by heating a TiO2 and NaBH4 mixture at 350 °C successfully introduced Ti3+ defects and oxygen vacancies at the surface of TiO2, with an increase in the photocatalytic degradation of amoxicillin—an antibiotic that is present in wastewater due to its intense use in human and animal medicine. Three TiO2 samples were prepared at different annealing temperatures to control the ratio between anatase and rutile and were subjected to chemical reduction. Electron paramagnetic resonance investigations showed that the formation of surface Ti3+ defects in a high concentration occurred mainly in the anatase sample annealed at 400 °C, contributing to the bandgap reduction from 3.32 eV to 2.92 eV. The reduced band gap enhances visible light absorption and the efficiency of photocatalysis. The nanoparticles of ~90 m2/g specific surface area and 12 nm average size exhibit ~100% efficiency in the degradation of amoxicillin under simulated solar irradiation compared with pristine TiO2. Mineralization of amoxicillin and by-products was over 75% after 48 h irradiation for the anatase sample, where the Ti3+ defects were present in a higher concentration at the catalyst's surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hematite-based nanomaterials are involved in several catalytic organic and inorganic processes, including water decontamination from organic pollutants. In order to develop such species, a series of bimetallic hematite-based nanocomposites were obtained by some goethite composites-controlled calcination. Their composition consists of various phases such as α-FeOOH, α-Fe2O3 or γ-Fe2O3 combined with amorphous (Mn2O3, Co3O4, NiO, ZnO) or crystalline (CuO) oxides of the second transition ion from the structure. The component dimensions, either in the 10–30 or in the 100–200 nm range, together with the quasi-spherical or nanorod-like shapes, were provided by Mössbauer spectroscopy and powder X-ray diffraction as well as transmission electron microscopy data. The textural characterization showed a decrease in the specific area of the hematite-based nanocomposites compared with corresponding goethites, with the pore volume ranging between 0.219 and 0.278 cm3g−1. The best catalytic activity concerning indigo carmine removal from water in hydrogen peroxide presence was exhibited by a copper-containing hematite-based nanocomposite sample that reached a dye removal extent of over 99%, which correlates with both the base/acid site ratio and pore size. Moreover, Cu-hbnc preserves its catalytic activity even after four recyclings, when it still reached a dye removal extent higher than 90%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper has approached the study of dairy wastewater treatment and the simultaneous biocompound production by Porphyridium purpureum under continuous light and under a day–night cycle. The main goals were to achieve a reduction in the lactose content of the cheese wastewater that was tested and, at the same time, to obtain added value from the produced compounds, so as to increase the economic value of the process. The results show that biomass production increases proportionally with the concentration of lactose for both of the illumination options. The lactose concentration in the waste stream was reduced over 90% in just 7 days. The exopolysaccharide concentration in the growth medium increased with lactose availability. For the samples that were under constant light stress, the concentration of phycobiliproteins was highest when there was small amounts of lactose in the medium. The content of pigments was higher in the case of the day–night cycle of illumination; these being affected by stress factors such as continuous light and high lactose concentration. The results that were obtained prove that dairy wastewaters that are rich in lactose can be used efficiently for the growth of Porphyridium purpureum, achieving an increase in the biomass concentration and a large reduction of the lactose from this waste stream while obtaining a microalgae biomass that is rich in valuable compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a new challenge in modern medicine, due to its high prevalence in the world. The pathogenesis of NAFLD is a complex dysmetabolic process, following the "multiple-hit" hypothesis that involves hepatocytes excessive accumulation of triglycerides, insulin resistance (IR), increased oxidative stress, chronic low-grade inflammatory response and lipotoxicity. In this review, we provide an overview of the interrelation of these processes, the link between systemic and local inflammation and the role of dysfunctional adipose tissue (AT) in the NAFLD development. Multiple extrahepatic triggers of the pathophysiological mechanisms of NAFLD are described: nutritional deficiency or malnutrition, unhealthy food intake, the dysfunction of the liver–gut axis, the involvement of the mesenteric adipose tissue, the role of adipokines such as adiponectin, of food intake hormone, the leptin and leptin resistance (LR) and adipose tissue's hormone, the resistin. In addition, a wide range of intrahepatic players are involved: oxidative stress, fatty acid oxidation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, resident macrophages (Kupffer cells), neutrophils, dendritic cells (DCs), B and T lymphocytes contributing to the potential evolution of NAFLD to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). This interdependent approach to complex dysmetabolic imbalance in NAFLD, integrating relevant studies, could contribute to a better clarification of pathogenesis and consequently the development of new personalized treatments, targeting de novo lipogenesis, chronic inflammation and fibrosis. Further studies are needed to focus not only on treatment, but also on prevention strategy in NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meat industries across the world are constantly focusing to find natural low-cost additives for the development of novel meat products to meet consumer demand for improving the health benefits. In this study, we investigated the chemical composition and the bioactive compounds of some herbal plants, namely basil, thyme, sage, and their functionality on broiler chicken thigh meat quality. Chemical composition, as well as total antioxidant activity, polyphenols, vitamin E lutein and zeaxanthin and the fatty acids of the plants, were analyzed. According to findings, total polyphenols was 21.53 mg gallic acid/g in basil, 31.73 mg gallic acid/g in thyme and 38.87 mg gallic acid/g in sage. The antioxidant capacity was 19.91 mM Trolox in basil, 54.09 mM Trolox in thyme and 54.09 mM Trolox in sage. Lutein and zeaxanthin from basil was 267.91 mg/kg, 535.79 mg/kg in thyme and 99.89 mg/kg, and vitamin E ranged from 291.71 mg/kg in basil to 379.37 mg/kg in thyme and 148.07 mg/kg in sage, respectively. After, we developed a trial on 120 unsexed broiler chickens (n = 30) which were separated into four groups with six replications of five chickens each: control (C); 1% basil (B); 1% thyme (T) and 1% sage (S). The B, T and S groups deposited significantly higher (p < 0.05) concentration of zinc, polyphenols, antioxidant capacity and vitamin E in meat samples compared with the C group. In the experimental groups, the proportion of total polyunsaturated fatty acids, the ratio of n-6 to n-3 fatty acids, and the ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids to saturated fatty acids in the thigh muscles were significantly improved (p < 0.05). The tested plants exhibited a significant (p = 0.0007) hypocholesterolemic effect in the meat of the B (45.90 mg/g), T (41.60 mg/g) and S (48.80 mg/kg) experimental groups compared with the C (60.50 mg/g) group. These results support the application of the studied plants as natural sources of additives which could be effective in improving meat quality, from the human consumption perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates the efficacy of Cr in broilers, aiming to evaluate the effects of Chromium picolinate (CrPic) in association with creeping wood sorrel powder (CWS) on the proximate composition, fatty acids profile, bioactive nutrients and lipid oxidative stability of broiler meat. A total of 120 Cobb 500 chickens were assigned into three treatments: a control diet (C) and two test diets, including 200 µg/kg diet CrPic (E1), and 200 µg/kg diet CrPic +10 g CWS/kg diet (E2). Dietary supplementation with Cr + CWS significantly improved the concentration of n − 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), while its n − 6/n − 3 ratio decreased in comparison to the group receiving Cr and the conventional diet. The concentration of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) significantly increased in the breast meat collected from the E2 group than that from the C group. Dietary administration of Cr and CWS improved lutein and zeaxanthin content, decreased Fe and Zn levels of the breast, and increased Zn deposition in the thigh samples. Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration decreased more in the thigh meat of the supplemental groups (E1, E2) than in that from the C group. In conclusion, the current study suggests that Cr together with CWS can be a viable option as antioxidant sources for broiler diets, promoting the nutritional quality of meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety profile and effectiveness of existing anti-HER2-targeted therapies have not been evaluated in patients with breast cancer and visceral crisis. We report the case of a 26-year-old woman who was diagnosed with advanced HER2-positive breast cancer and initially treated with curative intent therapy in a neoadjuvant setting, using Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab in combination with Docetaxel; her cancer recurred two years later, with liver metastases and pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis, causing visceral crisis. Furthermore, the patient's clinical status worsened when she developed respiratory failure, hepatomegaly and a severe hepatocytolysis. Since the patient was free of disease more than six months, we started with Paclitaxel half dose because of the hepatic dysfunction, and we gradually reintroduced Trastuzumab and then Pertuzumab. In the meantime, the patient changed her lifestyle by increasing her consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables and fiber and reducing her intake of processed meat, dairy and sugar. As a result, the patient showed a significant improvement in her respiratory symptoms and liver tests in less than two months. Imaging reevaluation showed partial remission of liver metastases and pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis. She underwent seven months of dual anti-HER2 blockade before relapsing cerebrally. Our results suggest that the sequential combination therapy with Trastuzumab, Pertuzumab and Paclitaxel presented in this study, associated with a healthy lifestyle, may be a good management for recurrent HER2-positive breast cancer with pulmonary visceral crisis and severe liver dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]