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Selecting highly nutritive fodder plants in arid regions can be a key to improving the livestock productivity. This work explores the variation in nutritive value of the leaves, stem, and shoots of five potential fodder plants of the Emirates of Fujairah, Erucaria hispanica, Haplophyllum tuberculatum, Convolvulus virgatus, Teucrium stocksianum, and Cleome Ibrachycarpa. influenced by two weather conditions, winter and spring. The plant samples underwent mineral composition, proximate, phytochemical, and heavy metals and two-way ANOVA. Weather data were accessed from National Center of Meteorology (NCM). Our findings reveal significant influences of collection time and species on nutritive content. Shoots collected in March exhibited higher ash (6.167%), crude protein (11.9%), crude fiber (14.89%), dry matter (45.86%), and total digestive nutrients (TDS) (48.35%), with lower tannin (5.11%) compared to January. Conversely, January-collected shoots had greater total sugar content (1.28 g/100 g). Plant organs played a crucial role, with leaves surpassing stems in Mg, P, Ca, K, Na, Mn, Zn, and Ni. Leaves also showed higher crude protein (23.33%), dry matter (92.26%), total ash (4.8%), and TDS (87.58%) compared to stems, while stems exhibited elevated crude fiber (17.45%) and tannin (4.53%). There is a need to assess the bioactive compounds found in these fodder species for the enhancement its effective use and maximize browsing of these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to find out what effect the maternal methyl-enriched diet (MED) in the perinatal period exerts on cognitive functions in adult offspring of WAG/Rij rats, a genetic model of absence epilepsy with comorbid depression. The cognitive functions (learning and memory) were evaluated in the novel object recognition (NOR) and fear conditioning (for fear memory) tests. The experiments were carried out on 6-month-old male WAG/Rij rats. The mothers of the experimental group fed a MED, while the mothers of the control group fed a control diet. The NOR test was used to assess episodic memory. This test is based on innate exploratory (novelty preference) motivation, which is usually reduced in depression. The conditioning of fear memory is the classical Pavlovian defensive conditioned reflex, manifested as freezing in response to negative reinforcement (electric footshock). In the NOR test, in rats of the experimental group, the novel object recognition index (a measure of episodic memory) and the number of entries to the center of the arena (a measure of exploratory motivation) were significantly higher compared to the corresponding measures in the control group. However, no intergroup differences were revealed in the manifestation of conditioned fear memory (% of freezing responses) to a context and a sound cue. The results indicate that the maternal MED improves episodic memory in the NOR test but does not affect the conditioned fear memory associated with a context and sound cue in the adult offspring of WAG/Rij rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to evaluate the availability of citrus byproduct (CBP) as a vitamin C additive compared with the L-ascorbyl-polyphosphate (LAPP) for juvenile Korean rockfish Sebastes schlegelii. Four experimental diets, based on the basal diet (Con; semi-purified, crude protein 48%), were prepared by supplementing LAPP or CBP to achieve a dietary vitamin C concentration of 90 or 360 mg/kg (designated as LAPP90, LAPP360, CBP90, and CBP360, respectively). Three replicate groups of S. schlegelii (mean body weight ± standard deviation = 4.5 ± 0.0 g) were fed the experimental diets for 13 weeks. After the feeding trial, growth performance, feed utilization efficiency, and survival were significantly lower in the Con group. Liver vitamin C concentration was significantly increased (36.7–117 mg/kg) with increasing dietary LAPP levels; however, there was no significant difference in the CBP groups (14.2–14.3 mg/kg) compared with the Con group. Bone collagen concentration was significantly affected by LAPP and CBP supplementation. The LAPP and CBP groups showed significantly higher lysozyme activity and total immunoglobulin levels than the Con group. Disease resistance against Streptococcus iniaewas significantly improved in the LAPP and CBP groups (60–92% survival) than in the Con group (39% survival). These results indicate that dietary vitamin C is essential for S. schlegelii and CBP could be a LAPP substitute as a vitamin C additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated whether plasma biomarkers of residual feed intake (RFI), identified under ad libitum feeding conditions in beef cattle, remained consistent during feed restriction. Sixty Charolais crossbred young bulls were divided into two groups for a crossover study. Group A was initially fed ad libitum (first test) and then restricted (second test) on the same diet, while Group B experienced the opposite sequence. Blood samples were collected from the 12 most divergent RFI animals in each group at the end of the first test and again after the second test. 12 plasma variables consistently increased, while three consistently decreased during feed restriction (FDR < 0.05). Only two metabolites, α-aminoadipic acid for Group A and 5-aminovaleric acid for Group B, were associated with RFI independent of feed intake level (FDR < 0.05), demonstrating moderate-to-high repeatability across feeding levels (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥ 0.59). Notably, both metabolites belong to the same metabolic pathway: lysine degradation. These metabolites consistently correlated with RFI, irrespective of fluctuations in feed intake, indicating a connection to individual metabolic processes influencing feed efficiency. These findings suggest that a portion of RFI phenotypic variance is inherent to an individual's metabolic efficiency beyond variations in feed intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many plant species, particularly legumes, protect themselves with saponins. Previously, a correlation was observed between levels of oleanolic acid-derived saponins, such as hederagenin-derived compounds, in the legume Medicago truncatula and caterpillar deterrence. Using concentrations that reflect the foliar levels of hederagenin-type saponins, the sapogenin hederagenin was not toxic to 4th instar caterpillars of the cabbage looper Trichoplusia ni nor did it act as a feeding deterrent. Female caterpillars consumed more diet than males, presumably to obtain the additional nutrients required for oogenesis, and are, thus, exposed to higher hederagenin levels. When fed the hederagenin diet, male caterpillars expressed genes encoding trypsin-like proteins (LOC113500509, LOC113501951, LOC113501953, LOC113501966, LOC113501965, LOC113499659, LOC113501950, LOC113501948, LOC113501957, LOC113501962, LOC113497819, LOC113501946, LOC113503910) as well as stress-responsive (LOC113503484, LOC113505107) proteins and cytochrome P450 6B2-like (LOC113493761) at higher levels than females. In comparison, female caterpillars expressed higher levels of cytochrome P450 6B7-like (LOC113492289). Bioinformatic tools predict that cytochrome P450s could catalyze the oxygenation of hederagenin which would increase the hydrophilicity of the compound. Expression of a Major Facilitator Subfamily (MFS) transporter (LOC113492899) showed a hederagenin dose-dependent increase in gene expression suggesting that this transporter may be involved in sapogenin efflux. These sex-related differences in feeding and detoxification should be taken into consideration in insecticide evaluations to minimize pesticide resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the immunophysiological response in Colossoma macropomum fed with different levels of dietary protein in a biofloc (BFT) and in clear-water (CW) system and under infection with Aeromonas jandaei. Juvenile tambaqui (9.20 ± 0.23 g) were fed isolipid feed with three levels of crude protein (CP) in the two production systems: BFT24, BFT28, and BFT32 and CW24, CW28, and CW32 with 24, 28, and 32% CP, respectively, for 60 days. At the end of the experimental period, the physiological conditions (hematology, biochemistry, hormonal, and oxidative stress) of the fish were analyzed. The results of erythrogram, cortisol, glycemia, and serum biochemistry of the fish did not show significant differences between the rearing systems (BFT and CW) and the different protein levels. Tambaqui raised in the BFT showed monocytosis, thrombocytosis, and higher respiratory activity of leukocytes, as well as higher glutathione (GSH) and lower malondialdehyde (MDA) values (p < 0.05). In the bacterial challenge, after induction of aeromonosis, caused by Aeromonas jandaei, greater survival of fish raised in the BFT was observed. The results suggest that, even at lower protein levels, tambaqui maintain physiological homeostasis, and, therefore, it may be possible to use up to 24% CP in the diet in the biofloc system. In addition, after the bacterial infection, this system promoted greater immunological resistance since there was an improvement in fish survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a fundamental pillar of food security in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), ensuring seed security is critical to empowering farmers in cultivating food and livestock feed, thereby fostering income generation from agricultural outputs. Among the crops cultivated by smallholders, legumes have the potential to deliver multifaceted benefits. Legumes are nutrient-dense and enhance soil health through their nitrogen-fixing qualities. However, in many instances, the development, release, and supply of improved legume varieties are insufficient to meet the needs of smallholder farmers in SSA. Here, we systematically reviewed the literature to (i) identify and categorize existing legume seed systems, (ii) map legume varieties available to smallholders, (iii) identify barriers hindering the adoption of various legume varieties, and (iv) identify potential strategies and opportunities for strengthening legume seed systems in SSA. Our results demonstrate the coexistence of formal and informal seed systems within legume seed supply chains in SSA, each employing unique seed distribution channels. Smallholders, however, are shown to predominantly depend on the informal seed system to source most legume seeds except for commercially available varieties. We also identified a diverse range of legume varieties available to smallholders in the region, with farmers having varying trait preferences based on crop type and gender. Notably, high yield and abiotic stress tolerance were the most preferred traits. The adoption of these varieties, however, is influenced by various factors, including lack of timely access to seeds in adequate quantities from the formal seed system, high seed costs, and limited information on new varieties. The reviewed literature highlighted that utilizing improved legume varieties had a positive effect on smallholders, leading to improved welfare, food security, dietary diversity, and income. We conclude that the effective scaling of legume systems in SSA is contingent upon the presence of supportive policy frameworks and well-established technical support structures. Packets of legume seeds within a legume germplasm and breeding program at the University of Zambia (Photo by Caitlin Breen, 2022). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorghum is considered a fifth major cereal, widely used as a multipurpose crop worldwide. The use of sorghum as a major forage crop is limited due to cyanogenic glycoside dhurrin in the vegetative shoot tissues. This cyanogenic glycoside is harmful to livestock when fed as fodder. The present study selected three sorghum genotypes for estimating hydrogen cyanide potential (HCNp) in vegetative tissues under well-watered (WW) conditions. The HCNp concentration varied from genotype to genotype and ranged from 364 to 512 ppm. The HCNp estimation was observed more in ICSR 14001 with 511 ppm, followed by ICSV 93046 (443 ppm) and CSH 24 MF (364 ppm). A significant difference was noticed between the genotypes. Sequence information of dhurrin biosynthesis pathway genes was retrieved and characterized using different bioinformatic tools. The gene expression analysis of dhurrin biosynthesis pathway genes showed different expression patterns, with the highest in ICSV 93046 and less in ICSR 14001 and CSH 24 MF. Genes CYP79A1, CYP71E1 and UGT85B1 showed a 2.5- to 4 fold increase in ICSV 93046 and no significant expression in ICSR 14001 and CSH 24 MF. The genotype CSH 24 MF observed a 1.5-fold increase in CYP79A1 gene expression, and the other genes observed no significant increase. This study assisted in identifying the contrasting genotypes inducing HCNp and the key genes of the dhurrin pathway producing hydrogen cyanide (HCN) under WW conditions, which can be used as potential candidates for gene editing, providing safe feed for the livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Europe imports large amounts of soybean that are predominantly used for livestock feed, mainly sourced from Brazil, USA and Argentina. In addition, the demand for GM-free soybean for human consumption is project to increase. Soybean has higher protein quality and digestibility than other legumes, along with high concentrations of isoflavones, phytosterols and minerals that enhance the nutritional value as a human food ingredient. Here, we examine the potential to increase soybean production across Europe for livestock feed and direct human consumption, and review possible effects on the environment and human health. Simulations and field data indicate rainfed soybean yields of 3.1 ± 1.2 t ha−1 from southern UK through to southern Europe (compared to a 3.5 t ha−1 average from North America). Drought-prone southern regions and cooler northern regions require breeding to incorporate stress-tolerance traits. Literature synthesized in this work evidenced soybean properties important to human nutrition, health, and traits related to food processing compared to alternative protein sources. While acknowledging the uncertainties inherent in any modelling exercise, our findings suggest that further integrating soybean into European agriculture could reduce GHG emissions by 37–291 Mt CO2e year−1 and fertiliser N use by 0.6–1.2 Mt year−1, concurrently improving human health and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing ecological control technologies against the fall armyworms (FAWs) is crucial. The ecological role of green manure crops has gained attention for their indirect contribution to enhancing crop resistance against specific pests and diseases in rotation systems. We hypothesize that green manure application directly affects FAWs host utilization. By using two-sex life tables, we measured the host adaptation of FAWs to hairy vetch and their offspring's adaptation to the original host (maize) as breeding generations increased during larval stages fed on hairy vetch. When FAWs' adaptability to maize was significantly affected by feeding on hairy vetch, we used 16s rDNA sequencing to detect the gut microbiota composition of current generation of FAW populations that fed continuously on either hairy vetch or maize. Our results suggest that continuous feeding of FAWs on hairy vetch does not enhance their adaptation to the host plant across generations, indicating no increased risk of damage to hairy vetch in maize-hairy vetch rotation. As successive generations of FAWs fed on hairy vetch, their host-specific adaptation to maize decreased or even lost, which was shown by a decrease in pupal weight and fecundity, as well as an inability of emergent adults in completing mating. FAWs' gut microbiota exhibited lower diversity when fed on hairy vetch compared to maize. Cyanobacteria were not detected in "Hairy_vetch" group, while Oxyphotobacteria_unclassified, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, Serratia, and Klebsiella showed significantly differences in abundance between the "Maize" and "Hairy_vetch" groups. Additionally, gut microbial taxa and FAWs performance were significantly correlated. Overall, the feeding experience of FAWs on hairy vetch resulted in a reduced or was lost maize-specific adaptation, as shown through changes in gut microbiota. Our study provides experimental evidence for the ecological role of maize-green manure rotation systems in pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is an invasive species that causes great damages to many stone and small fruits, resulting in reduced fruit production and high economic losses. The concern about this pest has led to the research of a wide range of possible control methods. However, the main control strategies are still based in insecticide applications. The efficacy of different insect growth regulators (IGRs), which have better ecotoxicological profile than conventional pesticides, was evaluated to test their feasibility for the control of this pest. When adult flies fed for three days on artificial diet surface-treated with lufenuron, cyromazine or pyriproxyfen, no adult offspring developed. However, adult offspring production progressively recovered when flies were transferred to non-treated diet. When adult flies fed continuously for 19 days on surface-treated artificial diet, lufenuron, cyromazine and pyriproxyfen completely suppressed the production of viable offspring while azadirachtin and tebufenozide reduced offspring production by more than a half compared to the untreated control. Nevertheless, these were transient non-permanent effects since viable offspring was produced shortly after females fed on treated diet were transferred to non-treated diet. The results observed in additional choice and egg-transfer assays indicate a vertical transmission of lufenuron and cyromazine from treated females to their offspring whereas the effect of pyriproxyfen seems to be related to the feeding of larvae on treated diet, although effects on reproductive processes cannot be discarded. In addition, choice assays showed no repellent effect on oviposition by lufenuron, cyromazine and pyriproxyfen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A feeding method suitable for rearing octopuses was investigated by preparing basic feed (ground crab or squid meat) enclosed within a collagen casing. Growth was compared between basic feed sealed in the casing and feed provided without a casing. No difference in growth was observed when the feed was squid, but with crab meat, both feeding efficiency and weight gain rate tended to be improved by encasement. When feeding on encased feed, octopuses were observed to feed not only by consuming the entire casing membrane, but also by eating only the edible portion inside the casing. Feed that was about to be eaten by octopuses was collected and measured for the enzyme activity associated with the feed, detecting protease activity, which is considered to be derived from the posterior salivary glands. It was concluded that encasement of feed in a collagen membrane not only improves the retention of soft feed materials within the membrane, but also suppresses the dispersal of enzymes when the octopus feeds, thus enabling the octopus to feed more efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplementing minerals beyond dietary requirements can increase the risk of toxicity and mineral excretion, making the selection of more bioavailable sources crucial. Thus, this work aimed to use metalloproteomics tools to investigate possible alterations in the hepatic proteome of broilers fed with diets containing two sources (sulfate and hydroxychloride) and two levels of copper (15 and 150 ppm) and manganese (80 and 120 ppm), totaling four treatments: low Cu/Mn SO4, high Cu/Mn SO4, low Cu/Mn (OH)Cl and high Cu/Mn (OH)Cl. The difference in abundance of protein spots and copper and manganese concentrations in liver and protein pellets were analyzed by analysis of variance with significance level of 5%. The Cu and Mn concentrations determined in liver and protein pellets suggested greater bioavailability of hydroxychloride sources. We identified 19 Cu-associated proteins spots, 10 Mn-associated protein spots, and 5 Cu and/or Mn-associated protein spots simultaneously. The analysis also indicated the induction of heat shock proteins and detoxification proteins in broilers fed with high levels of copper and manganese, suggesting the involvement of these proteins in metal tolerance and stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient utilisation of plant-based diets in the giant freshwater prawn, Marcrobrachium rosenbergii, varies according to individual, suggesting that it might be associated with differences in physiological and metabolic responses. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the individual differences in the growth response of shrimp fed to a soybean-based diet (SBM). Two hundred shrimp were fed SBM for 90 days, and specific growth rate (SGR) was determined individually. Fast- and slow-growing shrimp (F-shrimp vs. S-shrimp), with the highest and lowest 5% SGRs, respectively, were sampled to determine haemolymph chemistry and carcass composition. The hepatopancreas of these shrimps were used for transcriptome analysis through RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). The results showed no significant differences in haemolymph chemistry parameters. In terms of carcass proximate composition, F-shrimp exhibited higher protein composition than did S-shrimp, suggesting that F-shrimp have higher protein anabolism. Using RNA-seq and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), the expression levels of several genes encoding physiologic and metabolic enzymes were found to be upregulated in F-shrimp compared to in S-shrimp, suggesting that these enzymes/proteins mediated the efficient use of SBM-based diets for growth promotion in shrimp. Various DEGs associated with the immune system were observed, indicating a difference in immune processes between F- and S-shrimp. The expression of several housekeeping genes was found to be upregulated in S-shrimp. Collectively, the upregulated expression of several enzymes associated with physiological and/or metabolic processes and increased protein anabolism may be attributed to the efficient use of SBM for maximal growth in shrimp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The placement of a jejunostomy catheter during esophagectomy may cause postoperative bowel obstruction. The proximity of the jejunostomy site to the midline might be associated with bowel obstruction, and we have introduced laparoscopic jejunostomy (Lap-J) to reduce jejunostomy's left lateral gap. We evaluated 92 patients who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer between February 2013 and August 2022 to clarify the benefits of Lap-J compared to other methods. The patients were classified into two groups according to the method of feeding catheter insertion: jejunostomy via small laparotomy (J group, n = 75), and laparoscopic jejunostomy (Lap-J group, n = 17). Surgery for bowel obstruction associated with the feeding jejunostomy catheter (BOFJ) was performed on 11 in the J group. Comparing the J and Lap-J groups, the distance between the jejunostomy and midline was significantly longer in the Lap-J group (50 mm vs. 102 mm; P < 0.001). Regarding surgery for BOFJ, the distance between the jejunostomy and midline was significantly shorter in the surgery group than in the non-surgery group (43 mm vs. 52 mm; P = 0.049). During esophagectomy, Lap-J can prevent BOFJ by placing the jejunostomy site at the left lateral position to the midline and reducing the left lateral gap of the jejunostomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prolonged use of antibacterial mouthwash is linked to an increased risk of systemic disease. We aimed to investigate if disturbing the oral microbiota would impact the lower gut microbiome with functional effects in diet-induced obesity. Mice were exposed to oral chlorhexidine and fed a Western diet (WD). Food intake and weight gain were monitored, and metabolic function, blood pressure, and microbiota were analyzed. Chlorhexidine reduced the number of viable bacteria in the mouth and lowered species richness in the gut but with proportional enrichment of some bacteria linked to metabolic pathways. In mice fed a Western diet, chlorhexidine reduced weight gain, body fat, steatosis, and plasma insulin without changing caloric intake, while increasing colon triglycerides and proteins, suggesting reduced absorption of these nutrients. The mechanisms behind these effects as well as the link between the oral microbiome and small intestinal function need to be pinpointed. While the short-term effects of chlorhexidine in this model appear beneficial, potential long-term disruptions in the oral and gut microbiota and possible malabsorption should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primates can respond to food availability shortages by increasing the energy they invest in searching for alternative food resources or by conserving energy by altering their diet while reducing movement. To gain information on the ecological flexibility of Beni titi monkeys (Plecturocebus modestus), we assessed seasonal variation in the behavior and ranging and feeding patterns of two focal groups across a year. We recorded group behaviors using instantaneous group scan sampling and used all occurrence sampling to collect ranging and feeding data (1,178 observation hours in the dry season, and 1,202 in the wet season). We collected data on food availability via monthly phenology monitoring. We found that during the fruit-scarce dry season, these frugivorous primates significantly reduced their monthly investment in moving and increased their consumption of flowers. They also showed some decrease in fruit consumption, home ranges and daily path length. Our observations of a diet shift to a high intake of alternative foods and reduction of time spent on moving suggest that the P. modestus groups that we studied used an energy-area minimizing strategy when fruits were less available. While we found that P. modestus could find food in the naturally fragmented forests, high levels of ongoing anthropogenic forest fragmentation may lead to reductions in important food resources, threatening the survival of these Endangered primates. This study shows the ecological flexibility of primates and provides important information to be incorporated in the design of specific effective conservation actions for this threatened an endemic species, as well as highlights the importance of mitigating the current threats to these forest ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the face of reduced food availability, primates must choose between expending energy to look for adequate foraging options, or saving energy by reducing activity and intake requirements. In a 1-year study of two groups of Olalla's titi monkey (Plecturocebus olallae) in the fragmented forests of the Llanos de Moxos, Bolivia, we assessed seasonal variations in behavior, ranging, and diet to examine their ecological flexibility. We observed groups in the wet and dry seasons, recording behavior with instantaneous group scan sampling (743.5 observation hours in the dry season and 733.0 hours in the wet season) and ranging and feeding data with all occurrence sampling. At the same time, we collected data on food availability via monthly phenology monitoring. The titi monkeys fed mainly on fruits and significantly reduced the time they spent consuming fruit during the dry season compared with the wet season while showing some (nonsignificant) increase in their consumption of leaves, and other foods (seeds, lichens, and fungi). Home ranges remained relatively constant, but titi monkeys spent less time moving in the dry season than in the wet season, although this difference was not significant. The observed shift in diet toward consuming alternative foods during the fruit lean period and reducing movement instead of expanding ranging behavior to look for higher-quality foods suggests that P. olallae follows an energy–area minimizing strategy that may enable these primates to inhabit fragmented forests. Nevertheless, deforestation and further fragmentation in the range of these endemic and Critically Endangered primates must be addressed, as they represent significant threats to the severely range-restricted P. olallae populations. Our study illustrates the relevance of understanding primate ecological flexibility in response to food reductions to the development of conservation actions, especially in the light of increasing forest degradation and loss in the study region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feeding strategies have a significant impact on growth and water quality in shrimp farming. Feed management also affects shrimp health, survival, and yields. All these factors contribute to production cost-effectiveness and the commercial shrimp industry sustainability. The effect of feeding frequency and two aquafeed cooking processes (extrusion and pelleting) on shrimp performance and water quality parameters was studied under controlled conditions in a 60-day trial with juvenile Litopenaeus vannamei fed once (10:00 h); twice (10:00 h, 12:00 h); four (10:00 h, 12:00 h, 15:00 h, 18:00 h) and six (10:00 h, 12:00 h, 15:00 h, 18:00 h, 21:00 h, 24:00 h) times/day frequencies. No statistical differences (p > 0.05) in growth rate, survival or feed efficiency were observed within pelleted feed treatments at any of the frequencies tested. Growth rate was significantly higher (p < 0.05) with extruded feed when administered once or twice in daylight (10:00–12:00 h). However, at such frequencies, growth was achieved at the cost of water quality and feed conversion ratio. At higher frequencies (six times a day) with extruded diets, the results in water quality suggest a reduction in total ammonia nitrogen and nitrite-nitrogen levels as frequency increased. The outcomes suggest that extruded feed with daylight feeding has the potential to improve growth rate, and an increased frequency could represent a suitable strategy to preserve water quality. The present research is the first to show that the extrusion process improves water quality; thus, extruded feeds could reduce effluent pollution impact and improve shrimp farming sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Literature information on apparent digestibility coefficients (ADC) of dietary nutrients in feedstuff for shrimp species dates to the 1980s though the nutritional consistency of ADC values determined in individual feed ingredients continues under scrutiny. This may be attributed to (a) the large variety of ingredients tested under a single standard methodology (i.e., the partial replacement of a reference diet mix by a fixed proportion of the target ingredient); (b) the complex effects of this dietary strategy upon palatability, digestion/digestibility, and consequently feeding rates; and (c) nutrient leaching of diets during experiments. While the biological phenomenon behind ADC (the so-called "nutrient disappearance" between diet and feces through animal's digestive system) is measured by the difference of nutrient and inert marker content in diet and feces, ADC of a feed ingredients has been mathematically calculated considering the difference in ADC from test (e.g., 30% replacement of a reference diet mash by the target ingredient) versus reference diet ADC and their nutrient content. The present study proposes the determination of individual amino acid ADC of soybean meal (SBM) based on the effect of inclusion of SBM in increasing dietary levels in four practical test diets (5, 10, 15, and 20% SBM, named diets T4, T5, T6, and T7, respectively) upon ADC of test diets. For comparison, the study also included three diets formulated under the standard replacement method (i.e., 10, 20, and 30% replacement of the reference diet mash by SBM, named diets T1, T2, and T3). The feeding trial was carried out under high shrimp performance with automated feeding (20–22 h pellet delivery/day, minimized leaching), and daily feces collection over the trial period (55 days). The estimation of ADC of amino acids in SBM was based on ADC determined in test diets, ADCAA SBM = mean [(ADCAA diet (T4, T5, T6 or T7)/ADCprotein diet (T4, T5, T6 or T7)) × ADCprotein SBM]; diet ADC experimentally determined; and an assigned ADC value of SBM true protein (ADCprotein SBM) estimated by three criteria: effect of increasing inclusion of SBM upon true protein ADC of test diet; additivity of digestible protein supplied by proteinaceous ingredients composing test diets T4 to T7; literature values and author's experience. Results by the new proposed method showed SBM ADC values between 76 and 88% for indispensable amino acids and contrasted with values obtained by applying the conventional replacement method at 30% inclusion of SBM into a reference diet (ADCAA: 87–96%). It was also checked either the improvement or reduction of certain individual amino acid ADC with increasing SBM inclusion level in diets. In conclusion, the new proposed methodology produced reduced and more realistic ADC values of amino acids compared to the conventional method of ingredient replacement into a reference diet at one fixed level. This new methodology for ADC determination is not intended to become an unquestionable reference but rather to offer an alternative view for more realistic values of ADC of feed ingredients for farmed shrimp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel liquid chromatographic method for the measurement of essential oils within animal feed additives was developed and applied. The simple and effective extraction protocol described yielded analyte recoveries more than 90% for cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, carvacrol, capsaicin, and dihydrocapsaicin for the feed additives tested. These five analytes were separated with a peak resolution of more than 1 on a C-18 reversed phase column yielding between 500 000–2 000 000 theoretical plates per meter. UV absorption detection at 210 nm provided limits of detection of approximately 1 µg of analyte per gram of solution for all analytes. Limits of quantitation were approximately 4 µg of analyte per gram of solution. Results indicated that while capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin were present at conserved levels within feed additives tested (0.2 and 0.05%, respectively), the content of cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and carvacrol varied considerably. The new method will find use within the emerging field of targeted nutrition for increasing gains for ruminants and poultry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The starting time of a large-rated variable speed pumped storage unit (PSU) operating in pumping mode is crucial in the power balancing scenario in a modern power system as it defines the transition period from generation to pumping modes and vice versa, which determines the stability of the power system. Typically, doubly fed induction machines (DFIM) are preferred in large-rated variable speed PSUs (> 100 MW) as they ensure variable speed operation through partial-rated power converters. The start of DFIM in pumping mode is challenging, and it is ensured through rotor side power converters. DFIM is typically started by short-circuiting the stator windings and supplying power to the rotor windings via power converters. The conventional starting method leads to more starting time and power consumption due to the saturation of the iron core in the earlier speed range because of the higher magnetizing inductance seen from the rotor side. This paper proposed an improved starting method in which the machine's magnetization current is supplied via stator windings and acceleration current is supplied via rotor windings. The proposed method is based on the field-oriented vector control method, and it significantly reduces the starting time and power consumption compared to the conventional starting method. The proposed method is validated through a 306 MVA DFIM-fed variable speed PSU, and results show that the improved starting method reduces the starting time and power consumption by 27.5 and 37.2%, respectively, as compared to the conventional starting method. This reduced starting time is preferred by the grid authorities as it improves the stability of the power system. Furthermore, experimental results are validated in the laboratory with a scaled-down unit of 7.5 kW DFIM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In laboratory animals, there is a scarcity of digestibility data under non-experimental conditions. Such data is important as basis to generate nutrient requirements, which contributes to the refinement of husbandry conditions. Digestibility trials can also help to identify patterns of absorption and potential factors that influence the digestibility. Thus, a digestibility trial with a pelleted diet used as standard feed in laboratory mice was conducted. To identify potential differences between genetic lines, inbred C57Bl/6 J and outbred CD1 mice (n = 18 each, male, 8 weeks-old, housed in groups of three) were used. For seven days, the feed intake was recorded and the total faeces per cage collected. Energy, crude nutrient and mineral content of diet and faecal samples were analyzed to calculate the apparent digestibility (aD). Apparent dry matter and energy digestibility did not differ between both lines investigated. The C57Bl/6 J mice had significantly higher aD of magnesium and potassium and a trend towards a lower aD of sodium than the mice of the CD1 outbred stock. Lucas-tests were performed to calculate the mean true digestibility of the nutrients and revealed a uniformity of the linear regression over data from both common laboratory mouse lines. The mean true digestibility of crude nutrients was > 90%, except for fibre, that of the minerals ranged between 66 and 97%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing challenges of climate change and pollution are major factors disturbing ecosystems, including aquatic systems. They also have an impact on gene regulation and biochemical changes in aquatic animals, including fish. Understanding the mechanisms of gene regulation and biochemical changes due to climate change and pollution in aquatic animals is a challenging task. However, with this backdrop, the present investigation was conducted to explore the effects of arsenic (As) and ammonia (NH3) toxicity and high-temperature (T) stress on gene regulation and biochemical profiles, mitigated by dietary manganese (Mn) in Pangasianodon hypophthalmus. The fish were exposed to different combinations of As, NH3, and T, and fed with dietary Mn at 4, 8, and 12 mg kg−1 to evaluate the gene expression of immunity, antioxidative status, cytokine, and NfKB signaling pathway genes. HSP 70, cytochrome P450 (CYP 450), metallothionein (MT), DNA damage-inducible protein (DDIP), caspase (CAS), tumor necrosis factor (TNFα), toll-like receptor (TLR), interleukin (IL), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were noticeably highly upregulated by As + NH3 + T stress, whereas Mn diet at 8 mg kg−1 downregulated these genes. Further, total immunoglobulin (Ig), myostatin (MYST), somatostatin (SMT), growth hormone (GH), growth hormone regulator 1 and β, insulin-like growth factors (IGF1X1 and IGF1X2) were significantly upregulated by Mn diets. The biochemical profiles were highly affected by stressors (As + NH3 + T). The bioaccumulation of arsenic in different tissues was also notably reduced by Mn diets. Furthermore, the infectivity of the fish was reduced, and survival against pathogenic bacteria was enhanced by Mn diet at 8 mg kg−1. The results of the present investigation revealed that dietary Mn at 8 mg kg−1 controls gene regulation against multiple stressors (As, NH3, As + NH3, NH3 + T, As + NH3 + T) in fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conditions of upbringing at an early age have a significant impact on the subsequent development, reproduction, and formation of behavioral characteristics of mammals, including rodents. Parents, primarily nursing females, are the main component of the social environment in the early period of postnatal ontogenesis in the majority of mammals. Therefore, the upbringing of mammalian pups in foster families of their own species or another one, even taxonomically distant ones, is one of the main methods for assessing the influence of early experience and the maternal environment on the formation of the behavioral characteristics and the choice of a sexual partner. Rearing of the adopted pups by females of their own or another species is used to preserve valuable species. This necessitates the development of the most effective methods of transferring offspring with maximum survival of the young. In this regard, we analyzed the survival rate and possible causes of mortality of young of a number of rodent species in foster families of mammals of their own and other species. We carried out cross-fostering (interspecific cross-upbringing) and in-fostering (intraspecific cross-upbringing) experiments using house (Mus musculus) and mound-building (Mus spicilegus) mouse pups, yellow steppe lemming (Eolagurusluteus) and brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) pups, and rearing of brown rat pups in foster families of the black polecat (Mustela putorius). As when feeding their own offspring, the main forms of maternal behavior ("maternal behavior complex") of the studied species in relation to adopted young during interspecific transfer are included and manifested in a complex manner if the adoptive mother accepts the young. The survival rate of adopted offspring depends on the degree of taxonomic proximity of the parent taxa: the highest rate was observed during cross-transfer between representatives of species belonging to the supraspecific complex Mus musculus s. l., while the lowest rate is observed when the pups are transferred between representatives of different families and orders of mammals. The success of upbringing adopted young can be determined by the similar composition of milk and the duration of lactation, the similarity of parental behavior (including the degree of male participation in raising the offspring), similar features of the ontogeny of young in closely related forms, and the significant difference in these characteristics in taxonomically distant species. However, successful upbringing of foster offspring is possible if there is similarity in the maternal behavior of taxonomically distant species and taking into account the suitability of milk (for example, feeding of rat pups by female black polecats). According to the results of the analysis of our data and published material, factors influencing the survival and mortality of pups in foster families also include the age of the pups at the time of transfer, species-specific differences in odor, the level of stress of the mother and offspring, the female's previous experience in rearing her own and other pups, and the expression of maternal instinct. All this must be taken into account when using the method of cross-fostering pups in experimental work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Babassu (Orbignya phalerata) is a valuable oleaginous fruit in Brazil's economy. After processing to extract oil, large quantities of residual mesocarp are generated. Typically, this by-product finds reuse as an additive in animal feed or is sold as flour for human consumption. However, there is a pressing need for innovative approaches to valorize this residue and leverage new technologies to create value-added compounds. Most existing processes for lignocellulosic biomass suffer from low selectivity during pre-treatment, often neglecting essential fractions like lignin, which holds significant biotechnological potential. In this context, deep eutectic solvents (DES) have emerged as a promising alternative pre-treatment method, thanks to their remarkable properties, including the ability to solubilize lignin, recyclability, and catalytic capacity. This study investigates the dissolution of residual babassu mesocarp in various deep eutectic solvents at different temperatures (70–130 °C) and biomass:solvent ratios (0.05−0.1). Two initial candidates, choline chloride:acetic acid (CC:AA) and proline:acetic acid (PRO:AA), were chosen. Notably, CC:AA achieved an impressive dissolution yield of up to 97.6% by mass of the residual mesocarp, while PRO:AA reached up to 50.8% by mass, with the thermal effect proving highly significant. Interestingly, the biomass:solvent ratio showed minimal influence on dissolution yield. The analysis of liquid fractions revealed that, for CC:AA treatment, lignin content measured 2.3 mg/mL (70 °C), 9.8 mg/mL (100 °C), and 10.5 mg/mL (130 °C). In contrast, PRO:AA treatment resulted in lignin content of 3.1 mg/mL (70 °C), 2.3 mg/mL (100 °C), and 2.8 mg/mL (130 °C). Furthermore, PRO:AA treatment yielded a total carbohydrate concentration of 2.2 mg/mL (70 °C), 1.9 mg/mL (100 °C), and 3.9 mg/mL (130 °C). For CC:AA treatment, the respective values were 2.6 mg/mL (70 °C), 17.2 mg/mL (100 °C), and 29.6 mg/mL (130 °C). UV/VIS analyses confirmed the dissolution of lignin and hinted at the extraction of tannins and anthocyanins (in CC:AA), underscoring their catalytic potential. This study marks the initial step in dissolving babassu mesocarp in DES and presents a promising avenue for biomass valorization in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of banana peel by the food-processing industry is substantial and the disposal of this waste material has become a matter of concern. However, recent studies have demonstrated that banana peel is a rich source of biologically active compounds that can be transformed into valuable products. This review aims to explore the potential of converting banana peel into valuable products and provides a comprehensive analysis of the physical and chemical composition of banana peel. Additionally, the utilization of banana peel as a substrate to produce animal feed, bio fertilizer, dietary fibers, renewable energy, industrial enzymes, and nanomaterials has been extensively studied. According to the researches that has been done so far, it is clear that banana peel has a broad range of applications and its effective utilization through biorefinery strategies can maximize its economic benefits. Based on previous studies, A plan for feasibility of a banana peel biorefinery has been put up which suggest its potential as a valuable source of renewable energy and high-value products. The utilization of banana peel through biorefinery strategies can provide a sustainable solution for waste management and contribute to the development of a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell) is a significant pest of cactus pear species worldwide. Over the past seven years, there has been growing interest in its distribution, impact, and the effectiveness of its primary predator, Hyperaspis trifurcata Schaeffer, as a biocontrol agent. This study investigates the feeding potential and population growth parameters of the ladybird H. trifurcata, fed on D. opuntiae at different constant temperatures (23–35 °C). The developmental times of H. trifurcata decreased significantly with increasing temperature. The highest pre-adult survival (80%) and the highest proportion of females (43%) were recorded at 25 °C, and the lowest were recorded at 35 °C. The probability of survival to adult stage was highest at 25 °C for both females (43%) and males (39%). The predator individuals at 25 and 30 °C were more reproductive and survivable than those at other temperatures. The total preoviposition period significantly reduced with increasing temperature from 23 to 35 °C, while the mean oviposition period varied from 28.2 days at 35 °C to 36.2 days at 25 °C. The mean total fecundity was highest at 25 °C (388.5 eggs/female). The intrinsic rate of increase was highest at 30 °C (0.117 d− 1), followed by 25 °C (0.108 d− 1), while the lowest value (0.072 d− 1) was observed at 23 °C. The feeding efficiency of H. trifurcata significantly increased with the progression of each developmental stage, with fourth instar larvae and adults being the most voracious feeders on various cochineal instars. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing rearing conditions and utilizing H. trifurcata effectively as a biological control agent against D. opuntiae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coccinella septempunctata (Linnaeus) and Hippodamia convergens (Guérin Méneville) are important predators of many pests of agricultural crop importance. Feeding these predators with artificial diets (ADs) is an important means to achieve large-scale production. In this study, the effects of five different artificial diets on the development, survival and reproduction of the two predators were evaluated under laboratory conditions (26 ± 2 °C, 60% RH, and 12:12 (L:D) h). The artificial diets consisted of various main ingredients, including barley flour (BF-AD), soybean flour (SF-AD), potato flour (PF-AD), frozen aphids (FA-AD), and milk powder (MP-AD). Both predators successfully underwent their entire development on all of these formulated artificial diets. The results of this study show that the black bean aphid (Aphis fabae (Scopoli)) and artificial diets SF-AD and PF-AD appear to be the most suitable for mass rearing of the predators. These diets decreased the total pre-adult development period, increased female and male longevity, significantly increased larval and pupal survival rates, adult emergence and weight, oviposition period, and fecundity, and significantly decreased the pre-oviposition period compared to the other artificial diets tested. Similarly, the data showed that the highest values of growth index and success index were obtained with the predators fed the black bean aphid diet (9.6–15.0 and 1.0–1.0, respectively), followed by artificial diets SF-AD (9.1–13.5 and 0.9-1.0, respectively) and PF-AD (8.3–10.7 and 0.8–0.9, respectively). The artificial diets, particularly SF-AD and PF-AD, can be used for mass rearing of C. septempunctata and H. convergens for biological control applications and adult rearing during aphids scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of cull potato piles is a concern because they take up space and harbor potato-associated pathogens. Black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens, larvae are an increasingly popular agent for converting organic wastes into ingredients for animal feeds. In this investigation, their ability to process cull potato waste was assessed. Potato tubers were suitable for larval development, but only following their disintegration through thermal or mechanical means. Optimal bioconversion was observed when potato substrate was provided at a rate of 1 g per larva. The presence of ground turkey meat and sawdust was generally beneficial to larval development and biomass accumulation. The presence of potato foliage in diet showed no negative effects on larval development and there was no glycoalkaloid bioaccumulation in larval tissues. Evidence from this investigation suggests that culled potato waste may be recycled using black soldier fly larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibrobacter succinogenes is a major cellulolytic anaerobic bacterium in the gut of herbivores and possesses genes with a wide range of hemicellulolytic activities. Endo-l,4-β-xylanase (EC.3.2.1.8) is a key member of the xylanolytic enzyme system and is widely used in animal feed, food, papermaking and medicine. In this research, the nucleotide-optimized endo-l,4-β-xylanase gene Xynm derived from the Fisuc_2442 gene of F. succinogenes was expressed in Pichia pastoris GS115. Carbon sources were optimized to facilitate recombinant xylanase Xynm production in high-cell-density fermentation. Characterization of the enzymatic properties of Xynm showed that it was overexpressed in P. pastoris by high-cell-density fermentation. Xynm had high specific activities toward various xylose polymers but low activity toward glucose-based polysaccharides. By methanol or a mixture of sorbitol/methanol (2 : 20 (wt/vol)) induction, the maximum specific activity of 6382 and 13821 U/mg protein was achieved with wheat flour arabinoxylan (high viscosity) as the substrate, and the maximum biomass was 111 and 161 g/L, respectively. Xynm exhibited optimal catalytic activity at pH 5.5 and 37°C and maintained over 80% of the initial activity after incubation at pH from 4.5 to 6.5 or from 10 to 50°C for 1 h. The enzyme activity was increased by Ba2+ and inhibited by Fe2+, Zn2+, and Ag+. Compared with corn, Xynm hydrolyzed wheat and released more reducing sugars. In summary, Xynm has high enzyme activity and moderate reaction conditions and shows promising application prospects for animal husbandry to improve the digestion of plant feedstuffs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitoids induce physiological changes in their herbivorous hosts that affect how plants respond to herbivory. The signature of parasitoids on induced plant responses to feeding by parasitized herbivores indirectly impacts insect communities interacting with the plant. The effect may extend to parasitoids and cause indirect interaction between parasitoids that develop inside different herbivore hosts sharing the food plant. However, this type of interactions among parasitoid larvae has received very little attention. In this study, we investigated sequential and simultaneous plant-mediated interactions among two host–parasitoid systems feeding on Brassica oleracea plants: Mamestra brassicae parasitized by Microplitis mediator and Pieris rapae parasitized by Cotesia rubecula. We measured the mortality, development time, and weight of unparasitized herbivores and performance of parasitoids that had developed inside the two herbivore species when sharing the food plant either simultaneously or sequentially. Plant induction by parasitized or unparasitized hosts had no significant effect on the performance of the two herbivore host species. In contrast, the two parasitoid species had asymmetrical indirect plant-mediated effects on each other's performance. Cotesia rubecula weight was 15% higher on plants induced by M. mediator-parasitized hosts, compared to control plants. In addition, M. mediator development time was reduced by 30% on plants induced by conspecific but not heterospecific parasitoids, compared to plants induced by its unparasitized host. Contrary to sequential feeding, parasitoids had no effect on each other's performance when feeding simultaneously. These results reveal that indirect plant-mediated interactions among parasitoid larvae could involve any parasitoid species whose hosts share a food plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankylosaurs were important megaherbivores of Jurassic and Cretaceous ecosystems. Their distinctive craniodental anatomy and mechanics differentiated them from coexisting hadrosaurs and ceratopsians, and morphological evidence suggests dietary niche partitioning between sympatric ankylosaurids and nodosaurids. Here, we investigate the skull biomechanics of ankylosaurs relative to feeding function. First, we compare feeding functional performance between nodosaurids and ankylosaurids applying finite element analysis and lever mechanics to the skulls of Panoplosaurus mirus (Nodosauridae) and Euoplocephalus tutus (Ankylosauridae). We also compare jaw performance across a wider sample of ankylosaurs through lever mechanics and phylogenetic comparative methods. Mandibular stress levels are higher in Euoplocephalus, supporting the view that Panoplosaurus consumed tougher foodstuffs. Bite force and mechanical advantage (MA) estimates indicate that Panoplosaurus had a relatively more forceful and efficient bite than Euoplocephalus. There is little support for a role of the secondary palate in resisting feeding loads in the two ankylosaur clades. Several ankylosaurs converged on similar jaw mechanics, while some nodosaurids specialised towards high MA and some ankylosaurids evolved low MA jaws. Our study supports the hypothesis that ankylosaurs partitioned dietary niches in Late Cretaceous ecosystems and reveals that the two main ankylosaur clades evolved divergent evolutionary pathways in skull biomechanics and feeding habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of corn processing index (CPI)—particularly at 70% and 85%—in starter feed in combination with the provision of forage, either alfalfa hay (AH) or wheat straw (WS), on feed intake, growth performance, rumen pH, and blood metabolites of dairy calves. Forty-eight male Holstein calves (43.0 ± 1.5 kg body weight) were randomly assigned (n = 12 calves per treatment) to one of four dietary treatments: (1) a textured starter diet containing 70% CPI and AH (70CPIAH), (2) a textured starter feed containing 70% CPI combined with WS (70CPIWS), (3) a textured starter feed containing 85% CPI and AH (85CPIAH), (4) a textured starter feed containing 85% CPI combined with WS (85CPIWS). Intake of starter feed (TMR) and milk was individually monitored and recorded daily, while body weight was measured weekly. On days 30 and 65, blood samples were collected from all calves 3 h after morning feeding. No interaction was detected between the CPI of starter feed diets and forage provision for starter intake, dry matter intake (DMI), metabolizable energy intake (MEI), feed efficiency (FE), average daily gain (ADG), and body weight (BW). The preweaning and overall DMI, preweaning, postweaning and overall FE and ADG, preweaning and overall starter intake, preweaning and overall ME intake, and postweaning and overall BW were greater for calves fed 85CPI than those fed 70CPI starter diets. Postweaning and overall ADG and postweaning FE were greater in calves fed WS than those fed AH. Body length and hip width were greater for calves offered 85CPI than in fed 70CPI. Wheat straw supplementation increased rumen pH at day 65 in calves fed 70CPI, but not in those fed 85CPI. No interaction was found between the CPI in the starter feed diet and the forage source for starter intake and DMI, MEI, FE, and BW. The results showed that including corn with 85% processing index in dairy calf starters improved their growth performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periwinkle shells of Tympanotonus fuscatus, Pachymelania aurita, and Thais coronata were analyzed for their proximate composition, nutritionally significant minerals, trypsin inhibitors, and carotenoids. The mean values obtained were compared using an ANOVA test. The results showed that T. fuscatus had the highest mean moisture content of 0.96 ± 0.14% and a mean value of 0.49 ± 0.13% for crude fibre but was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from P. auritus. The crude protein and fibre content of T. fuscatus was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than other periwinkle samples. T. coronata had the highest mean total ash content and was significantly different (p < 0.05) from other periwinkle samples. T. fuscatus had the highest mean value for Mg (0.32 ± 0.03 mg/kg) and differed significantly (P < 0.05). The mean Ca content of P. aurita was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from that of T. coronata. The mean values of CaCO3 in T. fuscatus, P. aurita, and T. coronata were 57.20 ± 2.46, 59.50 ± 3.23, and 62.36 ± 1.56 (mg/kg), respectively. T. coronata was significantly different (P < 0.05) from other periwinkle samples. The mean values of carotenoids in T. fuscatus, P. aurita, and T. coronata were 7.17 ± 2.14, 18.00 ± 5.27, and 11.20 ± 3.60 (mg/kg), respectively, and P. aurita was significantly different (P < 0.05) from other periwinkle samples. T. fuscatus and P. aurita had shells with significant amounts of trypsin inhibitor (23.30 ± 4.50 mg/kg and 22.90 ± 14.10 mg/kg, respectively), making them less suitable for livestock feed. In contrast, T. coronata had a lower mean value of 11.80 ± 7.19 mg/kg for trypsin inhibitor, making it an excellent addition to livestock feed. The low crude fibre and fat contents of the periwinkle samples in this study make them suitable for processing complementary foods, especially for hypertensive patients. The high percentage of CaCO3 in periwinkle shells makes them a probable source used in the production of slurry for chromatography. The findings suggest that periwinkle shells contain specific minerals that can be applied in numerous industries. Increased use of these gastropod shells will result in successful application in product creation and a sustainable bio-circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankylosaurs were important megaherbivores of Jurassic and Cretaceous ecosystems. Their distinctive craniodental anatomy and mechanics differentiated them from coexisting hadrosaurs and ceratopsians, and morphological evidence suggests dietary niche partitioning between sympatric ankylosaurids and nodosaurids. Here, we investigate the skull biomechanics of ankylosaurs relative to feeding function. First, we compare feeding functional performance between nodosaurids and ankylosaurids applying finite element analysis and lever mechanics to the skulls of Panoplosaurus mirus (Nodosauridae) and Euoplocephalus tutus (Ankylosauridae). We also compare jaw performance across a wider sample of ankylosaurs through lever mechanics and phylogenetic comparative methods. Mandibular stress levels are higher in Euoplocephalus, supporting the view that Panoplosaurus consumed tougher foodstuffs. Bite force and mechanical advantage (MA) estimates indicate that Panoplosaurus had a relatively more forceful and efficient bite than Euoplocephalus. There is little support for a role of the secondary palate in resisting feeding loads in the two ankylosaur clades. Several ankylosaurs converged on similar jaw mechanics, while some nodosaurids specialised towards high MA and some ankylosaurids evolved low MA jaws. Our study supports the hypothesis that ankylosaurs partitioned dietary niches in Late Cretaceous ecosystems and reveals that the two main ankylosaur clades evolved divergent evolutionary pathways in skull biomechanics and feeding habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics are chemical compounds that are used to treat and prevent disease in humans and animals. They have been used in animal feed for over 60 years and are widely used in industrial farming. Antibiotics can have negative environmental impacts, including the potential to contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant organisms. They can enter the environment through various pathways, including the manufacturing process, the direct application of antibiotic-laden manure to fields, and through grazing animals. Antibiotics that are given to animals can be excreted from where they can enter soil and groundwater which enable their entry in plants. Streptomycin is an antibiotic that is used against a range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, but its use has led to the development of antibiotic resistance in some pathogens. It has also been shown to have negative impacts on a range of plant species, including tobacco, tomato, and wheat. Although, the major effect of streptomycin on plant physiology have been studied, the molecular mechanisms at play are barely understood in plant body. In current study, we examined the impact of streptomycin on germination of Brassica napus and then using docking, MM-GBBSA and MD simulations identified key proteins that interact with streptomycin by performing rigorous computational screening of 106 different proteins. Our finding suggest that streptomycin might be interacting with acyl-CoA oxidases, protochlorophyllide reductase B and leucoanthocyanidin dioxygenase based on simulation and docking analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the chemical contents and fatty acid composition of various parts of the buckwheat plant. Buckwheat has multiple uses, such as human food, animal feed, and medicinal purposes. The study reveals that the major saturated fatty acids in buckwheat oils are C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, C20:0, C22:0, and C24:0 acids, while the major unsaturated fatty acids are C18:1, C18:2, and C18:3 acids. The research findings align with previous studies on buckwheat. The study investigates the fatty acid composition and chemical contents of different parts of the buckwheat plant, highlighting variations in fatty acid composition and chemical contents among different plant parts. The highest unsaturated fatty acids are found in the seeds. The study also reveals differences in crude protein, fiber, and mineral content among different parts of the plant. These variations may be attributed to different ecological conditions and plant parts examined. The study was supported by Bingol University. [Extracted from the article]

Obesity is an enormous health problem, and many patients do not respond to any of the available therapies. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is currently investigated as a potential treatment for morbid obesity. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that high-frequency DBS targeting the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell region reduces food intake and weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. We implanted male C57BL/6J mice with bilateral electrodes and a head-mounted microstimulator enabling continuous stimulation for up to 5 weeks. In successfully operated animals (n = 9 per group, high-frequency vs. sham stimulation), we investigated immediate and long-term stimulation effects on metabolic and behavioral phenotypes. Here we show that stimulation acutely induced a transient reduction in energy expenditure and locomotor activity but did not significantly affect spontaneous food intake, social interaction, anxiety or exploratory behaviors. In contrast, continuous stimulation over 5 weeks led to a decrease in food intake and thigmotaxis (the tendency to stay near walls in an open lit arena). However, chronic stimulation did not substantially change weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. Our results do not support the use of continuous high-frequency NAc shell DBS as a treatment for obesity. However, DBS can alter obesity-related parameters with differing short and long-term effects. Therefore, future research should employ time and context-sensitive experimental designs to assess the potential of DBS for clinical translation in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankylosaurs were important megaherbivores of Jurassic and Cretaceous ecosystems. Their distinctive craniodental anatomy and mechanics differentiated them from coexisting hadrosaurs and ceratopsians, and morphological evidence suggests dietary niche partitioning between sympatric ankylosaurids and nodosaurids. Here, we investigate the skull biomechanics of ankylosaurs relative to feeding function. First, we compare feeding functional performance between nodosaurids and ankylosaurids applying finite element analysis and lever mechanics to the skulls of Panoplosaurus mirus (Nodosauridae) and Euoplocephalus tutus (Ankylosauridae). We also compare jaw performance across a wider sample of ankylosaurs through lever mechanics and phylogenetic comparative methods. Mandibular stress levels are higher in Euoplocephalus, supporting the view that Panoplosaurus consumed tougher foodstuffs. Bite force and mechanical advantage (MA) estimates indicate that Panoplosaurus had a relatively more forceful and efficient bite than Euoplocephalus. There is little support for a role of the secondary palate in resisting feeding loads in the two ankylosaur clades. Several ankylosaurs converged on similar jaw mechanics, while some nodosaurids specialised towards high MA and some ankylosaurids evolved low MA jaws. Our study supports the hypothesis that ankylosaurs partitioned dietary niches in Late Cretaceous ecosystems and reveals that the two main ankylosaur clades evolved divergent evolutionary pathways in skull biomechanics and feeding habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of corn processing index (CPI)—particularly at 70% and 85%—in starter feed in combination with the provision of forage, either alfalfa hay (AH) or wheat straw (WS), on feed intake, growth performance, rumen pH, and blood metabolites of dairy calves. Forty-eight male Holstein calves (43.0 ± 1.5 kg body weight) were randomly assigned (n = 12 calves per treatment) to one of four dietary treatments: (1) a textured starter diet containing 70% CPI and AH (70CPIAH), (2) a textured starter feed containing 70% CPI combined with WS (70CPIWS), (3) a textured starter feed containing 85% CPI and AH (85CPIAH), (4) a textured starter feed containing 85% CPI combined with WS (85CPIWS). Intake of starter feed (TMR) and milk was individually monitored and recorded daily, while body weight was measured weekly. On days 30 and 65, blood samples were collected from all calves 3 h after morning feeding. No interaction was detected between the CPI of starter feed diets and forage provision for starter intake, dry matter intake (DMI), metabolizable energy intake (MEI), feed efficiency (FE), average daily gain (ADG), and body weight (BW). The preweaning and overall DMI, preweaning, postweaning and overall FE and ADG, preweaning and overall starter intake, preweaning and overall ME intake, and postweaning and overall BW were greater for calves fed 85CPI than those fed 70CPI starter diets. Postweaning and overall ADG and postweaning FE were greater in calves fed WS than those fed AH. Body length and hip width were greater for calves offered 85CPI than in fed 70CPI. Wheat straw supplementation increased rumen pH at day 65 in calves fed 70CPI, but not in those fed 85CPI. No interaction was found between the CPI in the starter feed diet and the forage source for starter intake and DMI, MEI, FE, and BW. The results showed that including corn with 85% processing index in dairy calf starters improved their growth performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing use of opioids in pregnant women has led to an alarming rise in the number of cases of neonates with drug-induced withdrawal symptoms known as neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS). NOWS is a toxic heterogeneous condition with many neurologic, autonomic, and gastrointestinal symptoms including poor feeding, irritability, tachycardia, hypertension, respiratory defects, tremors, hyperthermia, and weight loss. Paradoxically, for the management of NOWS, low doses of morphine, methadone, or buprenorphine are administered. NOWS is a polygenic disorder supported by studies of genomic variation in opioid-related genes. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in CYP2B6 are associated with variations in NOWS infant responses to methadone and SNPs in the OPRM1, ABCB1, and COMT genes are associated with need for treatment and length of hospital stay. Epigenetic gene changes showing higher methylation levels in infants and mothers have been associated with more pharmacologic treatment in the case of newborns, and for mothers, longer infant hospital stays. Respiratory disturbances associated with NOWS are not well characterized. Little is known about the effects of opioids on developing neonatal respiratory control and respiratory distress (RD), a potential problem for survival of the neonate. In a rat model to test the effect of maternal opioids on the developing respiratory network and neonatal breathing, maternal-derived methadone increased apneas and lessened RD in neonates at postnatal (P) days P0 and P1. From P3, breathing normalized with age suggesting reorganization of respiratory rhythm-generating circuits at a time when the preBötC becomes the dominant inspiratory rhythm generator. In medullary slices containing the preBötC, maternal opioid treatment plus exposure to exogenous opioids showed respiratory activity was maintained in younger but not older neonates. Thus, maternal opioids blunt centrally controlled respiratory frequency responses to exogenous opioids in an age-dependent manner. In the absence of maternal opioid treatment, exogenous opioids abolished burst frequencies at all ages. Prenatal opioid exposure in children stunts growth rate and development while studies of behavior and cognitive ability reveal poor performances. In adults, high rates of attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity, substance abuse, and poor performances in intelligence and memory tests have been reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress is usually caused by a water deficit. Various compounds such as jasmonates and potassium are involved in mitigating stressful conditions such as drought. In the present study, the effects of potassium sulfate (K2SO4) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) were evaluated on the morpho-physiological and biochemical characteristics of fodder corn (Zea mays L. cv. NS0616). The treatment included different levels of drought stress over a two years' period. Drought stress caused a significant decrease in growth and yield, starch content, chlorophyll (a, b, and total) and potassium content in leaves and seeds. A significant increase in catalase activity, soluble carbohydrates, protein, proline, carotenoids and malondialdehyde content was observed compared to the control. Exogenous K2SO4 and MeJA alleviated the adverse effects of drought stress on plants. K2SO4 and MeJA counteracted the inhibitory effects of water deficiency by increasing CAT enzyme activity, proline, soluble carbohydrate, potassium, and protein contents. The results revealed that K2SO4 and the MeJA foliar spray were useful in mitigating the adverse effects of water deficit on fodder maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Antenatal lead exposure is associated with multiple adverse maternal and fetal consequences. Maternal blood lead concentrations as low as 10 µg/dL have been associated with gestational hypertension, spontaneous abortion, growth retardation, and impaired neurobehavioral development. Current treatment recommendations for pregnant women with a blood lead level (BLL) ≥ 45 µg/dL include chelation. We report a successful case of a mother with severe gestational lead poisoning treated with induction of labor in a term infant. Case Report: A 22-year-old G2P1001 female, at 38 weeks and 5 days gestation, was referred to the emergency department for an outpatient venous BLL of 53 µg/dL. The decision was made to limit ongoing prenatal lead exposure by emergent induction as opposed to chelation. Maternal BLL just prior to induction increased to 70 µg/dL. A 3510 g infant was delivered with APGAR scores of 9 and 9 at 1 and 5 min. Cord BLL at delivery returned at 41 µg/dL. The mother was instructed to avoid breastfeeding until her BLLs decreased to below 40 µg/dL, consistent with federal and local guidelines. The neonate was empirically chelated with dimercaptosuccinic acid. On postpartum day 2, maternal BLL decreased to 36 µg/dL, and the neonatal BLL was found to be 33 µg/mL. Both the mother and neonate were discharged to an alternative lead-free household on postpartum day 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytases are widely used food and feed enzymes to improve phosphate availability and reduce anti-nutritional factors. Despite the benefits, enzyme usage is restricted by the harsh conditions in a gastrointestinal tract (pH 2–6) and feed pelleting conditions at high temperatures (60–90 °C). The commercially available phytase Quantum® Blue has been immobilized as CLEAs using glutardialdehyde and soy protein resulting in a residual activity of 33%. The influence of the precipitating agent, precipitant concentration, cross-linker concentration and cross-linking time, sodium borohydride as well as the proteic feeders gluten, soy protein and bovine serum albumin (BSA) has been optimized. The best conditions were 90% (v/v) ethyl lactate as precipitating reagent, 100 mM glutardialdehyde and a soy protein concentration of 227 mg/L with a cross-linking time of 1 h. The intrinsically stable phytase remained its high thermal stability and temperature optimum. The phytase-CLEA achieved a 425% increase of residual activity under harsh acidic conditions between pH 2.2 and 3.5 compared to the free enzyme. The free and immobilized phytase were deployed in an in vitro assay simulating the acidic conditions in the gizzard of poultry at pH 2. The hydrolysis of phytate was monitored using a novel high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis and DAD scanner to study the InsPx fingerprint. All lower inositol phosphate pools (InsP1–InsP6) and free phosphate were separated and analyzed. The phytase-CLEA efficiently released 80% of the total phosphate within 180 min, whereas the free enzyme only released 6% in the same time under the same conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock systems contribution to environmental change is controversial. Pasture-based systems are considered a sustainable alternative due to their adaptation to the use of local natural resources. However, they have limited productivity per product unit and, in Europe, depend on public economic support. Furthermore, they are heterogeneous in farm structure and resources use, which may determine their sustainability. We use emergy accounting to assess the sustainability of mountain pasture-based cattle systems and analyse the variability among farms. Emergy accounting assesses the sustainability performance of complex systems (i.e., farming systems) and their interaction with other systems (i.e., the environment and the socio-economic system) focusing on the origin, quality and quantity of the energy required for the system to function. Results show that pasture-based systems largely use local natural renewable resources but depend largely on the wider socio-economic system given their reliance on public economic support and purchased animal feeds. This economic dependence turns out in most farms largely using non-renewable resources. Increasing self-produced feeds and grazing on natural pastures can reduce the dependence on the socio-economic system and improve farm sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock systems contribution to environmental change is controversial. Pasture-based systems are considered a sustainable alternative due to their adaptation to the use of local natural resources. However, they have limited productivity per product unit and, in Europe, depend on public economic support. Furthermore, they are heterogeneous in farm structure and resources use, which may determine their sustainability. We use emergy accounting to assess the sustainability of mountain pasture-based cattle systems and analyse the variability among farms. Emergy accounting assesses the sustainability performance of complex systems (i.e., farming systems) and their interaction with other systems (i.e., the environment and the socio-economic system) focusing on the origin, quality and quantity of the energy required for the system to function. Results show that pasture-based systems largely use local natural renewable resources but depend largely on the wider socio-economic system given their reliance on public economic support and purchased animal feeds. This economic dependence turns out in most farms largely using non-renewable resources. Increasing self-produced feeds and grazing on natural pastures can reduce the dependence on the socio-economic system and improve farm sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periwinkle shells of Tympanotonus fuscatus, Pachymelania aurita, and Thais coronata were analyzed for their proximate composition, nutritionally significant minerals, trypsin inhibitors, and carotenoids. The mean values obtained were compared using an ANOVA test. The results showed that T. fuscatus had the highest mean moisture content of 0.96 ± 0.14% and a mean value of 0.49 ± 0.13% for crude fibre but was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from P. auritus. The crude protein and fibre content of T. fuscatus was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than other periwinkle samples. T. coronata had the highest mean total ash content and was significantly different (p < 0.05) from other periwinkle samples. T. fuscatus had the highest mean value for Mg (0.32 ± 0.03 mg/kg) and differed significantly (P < 0.05). The mean Ca content of P. aurita was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from that of T. coronata. The mean values of CaCO3 in T. fuscatus, P. aurita, and T. coronata were 57.20 ± 2.46, 59.50 ± 3.23, and 62.36 ± 1.56 (mg/kg), respectively. T. coronata was significantly different (P < 0.05) from other periwinkle samples. The mean values of carotenoids in T. fuscatus, P. aurita, and T. coronata were 7.17 ± 2.14, 18.00 ± 5.27, and 11.20 ± 3.60 (mg/kg), respectively, and P. aurita was significantly different (P < 0.05) from other periwinkle samples. T. fuscatus and P. aurita had shells with significant amounts of trypsin inhibitor (23.30 ± 4.50 mg/kg and 22.90 ± 14.10 mg/kg, respectively), making them less suitable for livestock feed. In contrast, T. coronata had a lower mean value of 11.80 ± 7.19 mg/kg for trypsin inhibitor, making it an excellent addition to livestock feed. The low crude fibre and fat contents of the periwinkle samples in this study make them suitable for processing complementary foods, especially for hypertensive patients. The high percentage of CaCO3 in periwinkle shells makes them a probable source used in the production of slurry for chromatography. The findings suggest that periwinkle shells contain specific minerals that can be applied in numerous industries. Increased use of these gastropod shells will result in successful application in product creation and a sustainable bio-circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UK and EU regulators are evaluating the potential health benefits of restricting the use of lead ammunition. Little information is available on exposure of pets to ammunition-derived dietary lead from petfood containing meat from wild-shot game animals. We found dogfood including wild-shot pheasant meat to be widely available in the UK. 77% of samples from three raw pheasant dogfood products exceeded the EU maximum residue level (MRL) for lead in animal feed, with mean concentrations approximately 245, 135 and 49 times above the MRL. Concentrations > MRL were also found in a dried food containing pheasant, but not in a processed food, nor in chicken-based products. Lead concentrations in raw pheasant dogfood considerably exceeded those in pheasant meat sold for human consumption, possibly because the dogfood mincing process further fragmented lead particles from shot. Dogs frequently consuming such high-lead food risk adverse health effects; this should be considered within decision-making processes about regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teramnus labialis (Leguminosae) is an underutilized species that has the potential to play an important role in diverse agro-ecosystems as a protein supplement for animal feed and a cover crop to conserve soil health. However, the establishment of this plant is difficult due to low levels of seed germination as a consequence of seed dormancy. The present report describes morpho-anatomical traits and dormancy breaking requirements of T. labialis seeds. General seed anatomical characteristics revealed a thick seed coat enclosing endosperm and cotyledons. Externally, the hilar region was observed, with a well-defined hilar fissure. Morphologically, the embryo is composed of an embryonic axis, which occupies less than half the length of the cotyledons embedded within two thick cotyledons. The cotyledons are inserted into the embryonic axis just below the plumule and serve as protection for it. The embryonic axis is of the bent type, with an embryonic root (radicle) and plumule (apex) visible. Histological analysis showed the presence of a thin cuticle (2.5 μm), a layer of compact macrosclereids (69.6 μm) and osteosclereid cells (38.8 μm). It is proposed that the presence of the macrosclereid and osteosclereid cells confers the impermeability characteristic to seeds. From the scarification treatments tested, immersion in liquid nitrogen and abrasion with sandpaper were found to produce high levels of synchronous germination. However, the latter method is not recommended when large numbers of seeds have to be processed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]