Feeding and molting are particularly important physiological processes for insects,and it has been reported that neuropeptides are involved in the nervous regulation of these 2 processes.Sulfakinin(SK)is an important ...Feeding and molting are particularly important physiological processes for insects,and it has been reported that neuropeptides are involved in the nervous regulation of these 2 processes.Sulfakinin(SK)is an important neuropeptide that is widely distributed among insects and plays a pivotal role in regulating feeding,courtship,aggression,and locomotion.In this study,we investigated the involvement of SK in feeding and molting on a highly notorious pest insect,the fall armyworm,Spodoptera frugiperda.SK transcript levels were found in all larval stages and there was a predominant expression of SK in the brain of 5th instar larvae.By immunostaining,SK was detected in 2 pairs of cells in the median protocerebrum.But during prolonged periods of starvation,there was a significant reduction in SK messenger RNA levels;however,subsequent refeeding led to a notable increase.To investigate the role of SK in feeding and molting,SK was silenced in S.frugiperda larvae through RNA interference.This resulted in a significant increase in food intake,weight gain,and the molting process happened more rapidly in the double-stranded SK-treated larvae compared to the controls.Conversely,injection of sulfated SK peptide(sSK)caused opposite effects.Interestingly,SK-knockdown in larvae resulted in increased levels of 20-hydroxyecdysone and also of the expression of some of it signaling pathway genes.Altogether,this study highlights the important role played by SK in regulating feeding and molting in S.frugiperda.展开更多
The present study investigated the effects of varying protein source combinations and feeding strategies on the growth,health and organoleptic quality of the large yellow croaker(Larimichthys crocea).Three iso-nitroge...The present study investigated the effects of varying protein source combinations and feeding strategies on the growth,health and organoleptic quality of the large yellow croaker(Larimichthys crocea).Three iso-nitrogenous and iso-lipidic diets were formulated.The control diet was made with 62%fish meal(FM).The other two experimental diets were formulated by replacing 45%FM with 22.5%mealworm(TM)and 22.5%cottonseed protein concentrate(CPC),or with 22.5%TM and 22.5%Clostridium autoethanogenum protein(CAP),respectively.The three kinds of diet were named as A1,A2 and A3,respectively.Five groups of large yellow croaker were fed with two different strategies:the first three groups were continuously fed with A1,A2 and A3 diets,respectively.The fourth group was alternately fed with A1 and A2 diet every 5 days.The fifth group was alternately fed with A1 and A3diet every 5 days.The five groups were named D1,D2,D3,D1-2 and D1-3,respectively.Results showed that D2 and D3 groups exhibited significantly lower weight gain rate(WGR)and higher feed conversion ratios(FCR)compared to the D1 group.The D1-2 and D1-3 groups exhibited improved WGR and significantly reduced FCR compared to the D2 and D3 groups.The A2 and A3 diets significantly suppressed digestive enzymes'activities compared to A1,whereas alternate-feeding groups significantly enhanced the enzyme activities.Compared to the D1 group,D2 and D3 groups significantly downregulated mRNA expression levels of intestinal antiinflammatory cytokines and upregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators.The anti-inflammatory abilities in the D1-2and D1-3 groups were significantly higher than those in the D2 and D3 groups.Additionally,diets containing TM+CAP and TM+CPC protein sources enhanced ventral redness and yellowness indices.Considering the growth,digestion,immunity and organoleptic quality of large yellow croaker,it is recommended to replace up to 45%of FM with TM+CPC and use an alternate-feeding strategy.展开更多
Background As a unique livestock adapted to the harsh environment,grazing yaks frequently suffer from malnutrition and even death because of the lower yield and quality of forage in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau during th...Background As a unique livestock adapted to the harsh environment,grazing yaks frequently suffer from malnutrition and even death because of the lower yield and quality of forage in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau during the cold season.Certain stress conditions,such as environmental changes,disease,and malnutrition,can lead to a decrease in glutamine(Gln)synthesis,which fails to cover the physiological needs of the organism.Supplementation with exogenous Gln can promote nutrient digestion and improve rumen fermentation in ruminant animals under malnutrition.However,whether Gln could alleviate the barrier function injury induced by malnutrition and its mechanism is still unclear.Methods In the in vivo experiments,24 healthy yaks(31 months,265.35±25.81 kg)were randomly divided into 3 groups,namely control group(Con,free access to the basal diet),feed restriction group(FR,50% level of ad libitum feed intake),and feed restriction+Gln group(FR+Gln,50% level of ad libitum feed intake from d 1 to 30,50% level of ad libitum feed intake+1%Gln from d 31 to 60).In the in vitro experiments,the yak rumen epithelial cells(YRECs)were divided into 4 groups:Con group(complete medium),Gln group(complete medium+10 mmol/L Gln),Gln deficiency group(Gln-D,Gln-free medium),and Gln deficiency+Gln group(Gln-D+Gln,Gln-free medium+10 mmol/L Gln).Results In the in vivo experiments,FR significantly decreased the ruminal concentrations of acetate,propionate,butyrate,iso-butyrate,and total volatile fatty acid(VFA)(P<0.05).FR also reduced the m RNA expression of NHE1,Na^(+)/K^(+)-ATPase,and Ca^(2+)/Mg^(2+)-ATPase,and the concentrations of lactate,histone acetyltransferase(p300),histone deacetylase(HDAC),as well as the histone lysine lactylation level compared to Con group,while Gln supplementation alleviated them(P<0.05).In the in vitro experiments,Gln alleviated the Gln-D-induced down-regulation of NHE1,Na^(+)/K^(+)-ATPase,and Ca^(2+)/Mg^(2+)-ATPase m RNA expressions and reduction of lactate,p300,HDAC concentrations,and histone lysine lactylation level(P<0.05).Besides,p300 inhibitor abrogated Gln repair of barrier function damage in YRECs(P<0.05).Conclusions Overall,our results revealed the potential mechanism of Gln supplementation to repair malnutritioninduced damage of rumen epithelial barrier function in yaks,which might be related to histone lysine lactylation.However,because we do not have a control group receiving glutamine alone,we cannot determine the impact of Gln on the rumen epithelial function of normal yaks.展开更多
This minireview synthesizes literature on the use of feeding jejunostomy tubes(FJTs)in the postoperative management of gastroesophageal cancer patients.Gastrectomy and esophagectomy remain the primary curative treatme...This minireview synthesizes literature on the use of feeding jejunostomy tubes(FJTs)in the postoperative management of gastroesophageal cancer patients.Gastrectomy and esophagectomy remain the primary curative treatments for gastric and esophageal cancers,respectively,but are frequently accompanied by significant postoperative malnutrition,which adversely impacts surgical and oncological outcomes as well as patients’quality of life.To address this,the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Surgery and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommend early enteral feeding through FJT placement following major surgery.While previous studies have demonstrated that FJT is an effective and reliable route for nutritional support,its placement is invasive and carries associated risks.Consequently,many clinicians opt for less invasive alternatives such as total parenteral nutrition or nasogastric tube feeding,although these approaches yield variable results.This review explores the benefits and potential complications of FJT placement,identifies variability in clinical adoption and the absence of standardized protocols,and highlights areas for future research to optimize patient care in this challenging context.展开更多
Microplastic(MP)pollution has spread from the mainland to the ocean.However,Haizhou Bay,which is one of the important land-ocean transition zones,has been reported relatively little about the enrichment of MPs.To prov...Microplastic(MP)pollution has spread from the mainland to the ocean.However,Haizhou Bay,which is one of the important land-ocean transition zones,has been reported relatively little about the enrichment of MPs.To provide fundamental data for MP pollution in Haizhou Bay,we studied the occurrence of microplastics in the intestines of 8 species of fish with different habits and feeding modes.The fish intestines were digested with a 10%KOH solution,and MPs are separated with a glass fiber filter.Then,the size,shape,color,and composition of the MPs were analyzed using a stereomicroscope and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer.The results showed the abundance of MP intake ranged from 0.02 items g^(-1) to 0.16 items g^(-1) and the detection rate of MPs ranged from 53.33% to 80% across different fish species.The MP intake in benthic fish and omnivorous fish was significantly higher than that of pelagic fish and predatory fish.Smaller MPs(<0.25 mm)were the dominant types and accounted for 62.50% of the total.The fiber was the prevailing shape of MPs,and the black MPs were the most common,followed by red and yellow ones.Polyethylene terephthalate(PET),polyamide(PA),and polystyrene(PS)were the main components of MPs,accounting for 34.9%,29.9%,and 16.4%,respectively.According to the composition analysis of MPs,the main sources of MPs in fish of Haizhou Bay were attributed to marine aquaculture and port construction.The results are helpful for our better understanding of the status of MP pollution in this area,and further aid in the development of the pointed measures to mitigate and prevent the MP pollution in this ecologically important area.展开更多
In the face of constantly changing environments,the central nervous system(CNS)rapidly and accurately calculates the body's needs,regulates feeding behavior,and maintains energy homeostasis.The arcuate nucleus of ...In the face of constantly changing environments,the central nervous system(CNS)rapidly and accurately calculates the body's needs,regulates feeding behavior,and maintains energy homeostasis.The arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus(ARC)plays a key role in this process,serv-ing as a critical brain region for detecting nutrition-related hormones and regulating appetite and energy homeostasis.Agouti-related protein(AgRP)/neuropeptide Y(NPY)neu-rons in the ARC are core elements that interact with other brain regions through a complex appetite-regulating network to comprehensively control energy homeostasis.In this review,we explore the discovery and research progress of AgRP neurons in regulating feeding and energy metabolism.In addition,recent advances in terms of feeding behavior and energy homeostasis,along with the redundant neural mecha-nisms involved in energy metabolism,are discussed.Finally,the challenges and opportunities in the field of neural regula-tion of feeding and energy metabolism are briefly discussed.展开更多
Background Post-weaning diarrhea(PWD)in piglets,often caused by F4^(+)enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli(ETEC),poses significant challenges in pig production.Traditional solutions like antibiotics and zinc oxide face in...Background Post-weaning diarrhea(PWD)in piglets,often caused by F4^(+)enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli(ETEC),poses significant challenges in pig production.Traditional solutions like antibiotics and zinc oxide face increasing restrictions due to growing concerns over antibiotic resistance and environmental sustainability.This study investigates the application of bivalent heavy chain variable domain(V_(H)H)constructs(BL1.2 and BL2.2)targeting ETEC virulence factors,administered in feed to mitigate ETEC-induced PWD in weaned piglets.Results The supplementation of BL1.2 and BL2.2 in both mash and pelleted feed significantly reduced the diarrhea incidence and fecal shedding of F4^(+)ETEC in challenged piglets.Pelleted feed containing V_(H)H constructs helped to preserve gut barrier integrity by maintaining levels of the tight junction protein occludin in the small intestine.Additionally,the constructs maintained blood granulocyte counts at a similar level to the non-challenged control group,including neutrophils,and ameliorated the acute phase protein response after challenge.Notably,even at low feed intake immediately after weaning,V_(H)H constructs helped maintain piglet health by mitigating ETEC-induced inflammation and the resulting diarrhea.Conclusions Our findings demonstrated that using V_(H)H constructs as feed additives could serve as an effective strategy to help manage ETEC-associated PWD,by reducing F4^(+)ETEC gut colonization and supporting gut barrier function of weaned piglets.The high stability of these V_(H)H constructs supports their incorporation into industrial feed manufacturing processes,offering a more sustainable preventive strategy compared to traditional antimicrobial interventions,which could contribute to sustainable farming practices.展开更多
BACKGROUND Congenital intestinal atresia(CIA)is a common intestinal malformation in the neonatal period,and surgery is currently the main treatment method.The choice of postoperative feeding is crucial for the recover...BACKGROUND Congenital intestinal atresia(CIA)is a common intestinal malformation in the neonatal period,and surgery is currently the main treatment method.The choice of postoperative feeding is crucial for the recovery of gastrointestinal function in children.AIM To compare and analyze the effects of different postoperative feeding methods on gastrointestinal function reconstruction in newborns with CIA.METHODS Twenty-six children diagnosed with neonatal CIA,treated with minimally invasive surgery at Shijiazhuang Maternal and Child Health Hospital between January 2021 and May 2024,were selected for this single-center prospective randomized controlled study.They were divided into two groups using envelope randomization:Enteral nutrition(EN)group(n=13)and parenteral nutrition(PN)group(n=13).Baseline and clinical characteristics were collected,and recovery time of bowel sounds and time to first defecation were used as evaluation indices for gastrointestinal functional reconstruction.Differences between the groups were analyzed using t-test,χ2 test,and Fisher’s exact test.Spearman’s correlation tests and linear regression models were employed to analyze factors influencing time to first defecation.RESULTS The time to bowel sound recovery(51.54 vs 65.85,P=0.013)and first defecation(58.15 vs 76.62,P<0.001)was shorter in the EN group compared to the PN group.Clinical improvements in the EN group,including discharge weight(P=0.044),hospital stay(P=0.027),white blood cell count(P=0.023),albumin content(P=0.013),and direct bilirubin content(P=0.018),were also better than those in the PN group.No substantial differences in postoperative complications were found between the groups.Correlation analysis indicated that abdominal infection and operation time may relate to time to first defecation.Linear regression analysis demonstrated a considerable association between EN feeding and shorter time to first defecation.Abdominal infection and an operation time>2 hours may be risk factors for prolonged time to first defecation.CONCLUSION EN substantially promotes the recovery of gastrointestinal function after CIA in neonates and can improve clinical outcomes in children.Future research should explore optimal EN practices to enhance clinical application and child health.展开更多
The “Greater Food” approach has replaced the older “taking grain production as a top priority” approach. Theimportance of feed and forage as the material basis for guaranteeing high-quality development of the live...The “Greater Food” approach has replaced the older “taking grain production as a top priority” approach. Theimportance of feed and forage as the material basis for guaranteeing high-quality development of the livestock industry has gradually become prominent. However, owing to the tradition of “both human staple food and animal feed relying on grain production” in China and the decoupling of feed crop planting and livestock farming, the risk of feed grain security has increased, especially as it relates to the supply of high-quality protein feed ingredients from abroad, which is facing a bottleneck. To ensure food security, effective domestic agricultural production should be adopted. Nevertheless, guaranteeing the supply of high-quality protein feed through domestic soybean production is difficult because of limited arable land;furthermore, pressure on the staple food supply is still extreme. In this article, the historical and realistic implications for the security risks of feed grain in China are analyzed. Proposals are made to separate staple food grains for humans from the feed grain supply for animals and to develop high-quality forage to reduce feed grain use. High-quality forage can be supplied via intercropping with grain crops in arable land and reseeding perennial legumes or grasses into natural grasslands. However, “managing forage for grain” needs to be supported via technical paths and policies as the forage industry develops to effectively increase the capacity to ensure feed grain security.展开更多
Country level assessment of feed supply and demand for livestock in Pakistan was conducted for the year 2013. Availability of feed ingredients was calculated from the official crop production statistics using publishe...Country level assessment of feed supply and demand for livestock in Pakistan was conducted for the year 2013. Availability of feed ingredients was calculated from the official crop production statistics using published harvest index and extraction ratios, and their nutrient supply was estimated from local feed composition tables. Feed requirements of livestock species were calculated from the standard tables published by US National Research Council. The results showed that indigenous feed resources were short for livestock and poultry requirements. The supply and demand gap for dry biomass, crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME) were 19.4%, 37.2% and 38.0%, respectively. Crop residues were the predominant source comprising 58.8% of the total feed supply, while fodder and grazing shared 23.8% and 9.2%, respectively. Grains and by-products contributed 8.2% to the feed supply. In attempt to fill this gap, large quantities of oilseed meals were imported mainly for the poultry sector. Maize was the major feed grain used in poultry and ruminant rations, and they together consumed 79% of the country's total maize produce. Based on the anticipated rapid expansion in poultry, dairy and feedlot farming in Pakistan, the feed gap will further enlarge and this warrants future focus on efficient and intensive utilization of the local conventional and nonconventional feed resources. The data and information presented in this paper provided a sound basis for regular updating in future to attain sustainable growth of livestock sector in the country.展开更多
In this paper, Duroc-lanndrae-Yorkshire crossbred piggy of born at 75 days of age, bouncing with health and similar body weight were randomly divided into experimental group (136 pigs) and control group (136 pigs)...In this paper, Duroc-lanndrae-Yorkshire crossbred piggy of born at 75 days of age, bouncing with health and similar body weight were randomly divided into experimental group (136 pigs) and control group (136 pigs). Pigs in control group were fed with conventional diets, and 4% microbial fermentation feeds were added to the basal diet of experimental group to research on the effect of performance and meat quality of pig breeding. The results indicated that after feeding 106 d, compared to control group, the slaughter performance, meat quality and content of fatty acid and amino acid of experimental group were all better, its slaughter rate increased 1.53%, the carcass weight increased 2.75% and the backfat thickness decreased 0.02 cm. In addition, the pork meat in test group hadn't antibiotic and heavy metal residues, while it had higher color score, lower pH45min and pH24h value, better tenderness and rate of cooked meat and higher content of fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids and amino acids. Microbial fermentation feed using in test group can significantly improved the flavor and aroma of pork, and eating this pork conducive more to human health. Thus, the application of microbial fermenta- tion feed can provide a more safe, healthy and nutritious flavor pork for human beings.展开更多
In aquaculture, feed represents the main component of production costs, and the development of this sector depends on the development of an economical feed formulation that meets the qualitative and quantitative requi...In aquaculture, feed represents the main component of production costs, and the development of this sector depends on the development of an economical feed formulation that meets the qualitative and quantitative requirements of fish. The aim of this study was to determine the nutritive and microbiological quality of fish feed formulated from local flours enriched with Hermetia illucens larvae. The raw materials used for formulation were fishmeal, corn meal, low-grade rice, soybean meal and Hermetia illucens larvae meal. Different iso-protein feed compositions were prepared with 0%, 10%, 25%, 35%, 50%, 65%, 75% and 100% incorporation of Hermetia illucens larvae meal as a substitute for fish meal. Biochemical and microbiological analyses of these flours were determined using standard methods. The results showed that incorporation of larvae meal had an influence on the biochemical characteristics ash (8.15 to 20.27%), lipid (11.55 to 24.94%), fiber (13.93 to 20.41%) and dry matter (89.65 to 91.19%) of various formulated feed. Loads of fecal Streptococci, Staphylococci, Aeromonas, yeasts and molds ranged from 2.4 to 4.9 log 10 CFU/g;3.6 to 3.9 log 10 CFU/g;2.2 to 2.7 log 10 CFU/g;2.1 to 2.3 log 10 CFU/g, respectively. The level of contamination of these flours was below the microbiological criteria applicable to animal feed. Feed formulated with 0% and 10% Hermetia illucens larvae showed the best nutritive and microbiological characteristics. These results suggest that flours enriched with Hermetia illucens larvae could be used in fish feed.展开更多
Feed efficiency(FE)is a crucial economic trait that significantly impacts profitability in intensive sheep production,and can be evaluated by the residual feed intake(RFI)and feed conversion ratio(FCR).However,the und...Feed efficiency(FE)is a crucial economic trait that significantly impacts profitability in intensive sheep production,and can be evaluated by the residual feed intake(RFI)and feed conversion ratio(FCR).However,the underlying genetic mechanisms that underlie FE-related traits in sheep are not fully understood.Herein,we measured the FE-related traits of 1,280 Hu sheep and conducted the phenotype statistics and correlation analysis,the result showcase that there was a large variation for FE-related traits,and RFI was significant positive correlation with average daily feed intake(ADFI)and FCR.Moreover,a genome-wide association study(GWAS)was conducted using whole-genome resequencing data to investigate the genetic associations of ADFI,FCR and RFI.For ADFI and FCR traits,2 and one single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)exceeded the genome-wide significance threshold,whereas ten and 5 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.For RFI traits,only 4 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.Finally,a total of 8 genes(LOC101121953,LOC101110202,CTNNA3,IZUMO3,PPM1E,YIPF7,ZSCAN12and LOC105603808)were identified as potential candidate genes for FE-related traits.Simultaneously,we further analyzed the effects of 2 candidate SNPs associated with RFI on growth and FE traits in enlarged experimental population,the results demonstrated that these 2 SNPs was not significantly associated with growth traits(P>0.05),but significantly related to RFI traits(P<0.05).These findings will provide valuable reference data and key genetic variants that can be used to effectively select feed-efficient individual in sheep breeding programs.展开更多
The efficiency and mechanism of hydrous iron oxide(HFO)and HFO/calcite mixture to inactivate the phosphorus in the overlying water(OW)/sediment system under the feed adding condition were explored,and the effect of HF...The efficiency and mechanism of hydrous iron oxide(HFO)and HFO/calcite mixture to inactivate the phosphorus in the overlying water(OW)/sediment system under the feed adding condition were explored,and the effect of HFO and HFO/calcite mixture addition on the diversity,composition and function of bacterial communities in the sediment was examined.HFO and HFO/calcite mixture direct addition can effectively lower the concentration of soluble reactive phosphorus(RSP)and diffusion gradient in thin film-unstable phosphorus(PD GT)in OW and inactivate the P DGTin the upper sediment.The elimination efficiencies of RSP by the direct HFO and HFO/calcite mixture addition were 48.9%-97.0%and 42.4%-95.4%,respectively.The alteration in the addition mode from the one-time to multiple direct addition was beneficial to the immobilization of RSP and PD GTin OW and P DGTin the upper sediment by HFO and HFO/calcite mixture under the feed input condition in the long run.Permeable fabric wrapping reduced the inactivation efficiency of RSP in OW by HFO and HFO/calcite mixture,but it made the recycling of these materials possible.Most of P immobilized by HFO and HFO/calcite mixture was relatively or very stable.After the HFO and HFO/calcite mixture addition,the composition of bacterial communities in the surface sediment changed.However,the bacterial communities in the amended sediments still can perform good ecological function.Our findings suggest that HFO and HFO/calcite mixture are promising phosphorus-immobilization materials for the inactivation of RSP and PD GTin OW and PD GTin the upper sediment under the feed inputting condition.展开更多
The widespread ban on in-feed antibiotics in many regions has driven the search for natural alternatives to maintain health and production efficiency in swine and poultry.Phytogenic feed additives(PFAs)derived from he...The widespread ban on in-feed antibiotics in many regions has driven the search for natural alternatives to maintain health and production efficiency in swine and poultry.Phytogenic feed additives(PFAs)derived from herbs and plant extracts have emerged as promising candidates owing to their antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and antimicrobial properties.Among these,silymarin—a flavonolignan complex extracted from milk thistle(Silybum marianum)—has attracted particular attention due to its hepatoprotective and growth-promoting activities.This review summarizes the chemical characteristics and mechanisms of action of silymarin/silybin.Also,evidence from both experimental and field studies shows that silymarin improves growth performance,nutrient digestibility,gut health,and reproductive outcomes.Advances in formulation technologies,such as micellization,have been addressed for improved bioavailability of silymarin.Despite these promising results,further long-term field studies and economic evaluations are needed to fully integrate silymarin into commercial animal production systems.展开更多
Background This study was carried out to investigate the individual and combined contamination of aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1)),deoxynivalenol(DON),and zearalenone(ZEN)in feeds in China between 2021 and 2024.A total of 23,...Background This study was carried out to investigate the individual and combined contamination of aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1)),deoxynivalenol(DON),and zearalenone(ZEN)in feeds in China between 2021 and 2024.A total of 23,003 feed samples,including 17,489 feedstuff samples and 5,514 complete feed samples,were collected from different provinces of China for mycotoxin analysis.Results The analyzed mycotoxins displayed considerably high contamination in the feed samples,with the individual contamination of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN were 20.0%–100%,33.3%–100%,and 85.0%–100%,respectively.The average concentrations of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN were 1.2–728.7μg/kg,106–8,634.8μg/kg,and 18.1–3,341.6μg/kg,respectively.Notably,the rates over China’s safety standards for AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN in raw ingredients were 9.7%,2.7%,and 15.7%,respectively.Meanwhile,3.5%,1.1%,and 8.7%of analyzed complete feeds exceeded China’s safety standards for AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN,respectively.Moreover,the co-contamination rates of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN in more than 70%of raw ingredients and 87.5%of complete feed products were 60.0%–100%and 61.5%–100%,respectively.Conclusion This study reveals that the feeds in China have commonly been contaminated with AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN alone and their combination during the past four years.These findings highlight the significance of monitoring mycotoxin contaminant levels in domestic animal feed and the importance of carrying out feed administration and remediation strategies for mycotoxin control.展开更多
Objectives Breastfeeding plays a critical role in the healthy development of infants,yet exclusive breastfeeding(EBF)rates remain low,particularly among low-income mothers.This study aimed to develop and validate an A...Objectives Breastfeeding plays a critical role in the healthy development of infants,yet exclusive breastfeeding(EBF)rates remain low,particularly among low-income mothers.This study aimed to develop and validate an AI-based educational innovative solution to increase breastfeeding literacy across caregivers and mothers.Methods The BabyChat(AI-based)was developed through two phases.In phase I,the content was created using the Canvas application,with the idea tree structured through MindMeister,and delivered via the ManyChat tool on Facebook.The focus was on the benefits of EBF during the initial 6 months of life,as recommended by the WHO,and continued breastfeeding until 1,000 days of life.In Phase II,functionality tests were performed using UserTesting and subsequently validated by the Content Validity Index(CVI).Healthcare professionals reviewed the clarity and relevance of the information on a four-point scale.Intra-examiner concordance was assessed by percentage of agreement and the median for each CVI-I point.Results The contents of BabyChat included 8 topics and 18 subtopics(based on relevant contents including nutritional and anatomical aspects,weaning strategies among others)aimed to educate mothers and caregivers.Five mothers participated in evaluation of the BabyChat.Overall,most participants found the chatbot’s question-and-answer functionality clear and helpful,with accurate command execution and timely response speeds,etc.However,two participants noted occasional issues such as misinterpreted questions,delayed command responses,and unclear or hard-to-find interface buttons.A total of four experts in psychology,dentistry,and medicine validated the framework.The agreement rate between experts ranged from 25%to 100%,with median values between 3 and 4,indicating excellent content relevance.Conclusion The BabyChat was developed and validated for use in increasing breastfeeding literacy among caregivers and mothers.Future studies should be considered to expand the BabyChat validation to other healthcare professionals,including nursing staff,to comprehensively capture the impact of BabyChat on mothers,as well as to incorporate population-specific topics that depend on cultural and geographical aspects.展开更多
Background As an indigenous livestock species on the Tibetan Plateau,Tibetan sheep exhibit remarkable adaptability to low temperatures and nutrient-scarce environments.During the cold season,Tibetan sheep are typicall...Background As an indigenous livestock species on the Tibetan Plateau,Tibetan sheep exhibit remarkable adaptability to low temperatures and nutrient-scarce environments.During the cold season,Tibetan sheep are typically managed under two feeding regimes:barn feeding(BF)and traditional grazing(TG).However,the molecular mechanisms underlying their adaptation to these distinct management strategies remain unclear.This study aimed to investigate the adaptive strategies of rumen function in Tibetan sheep to cold-season feeding regimes by integrating analyses of rumen morphology,microbiome,metabolome,and transcriptome.Twelve healthy Tibetan sheep with similar body weights were assigned into two groups(BF vs.TG).At the end of the experiment,rumen tissues were subjected to histological observation.Multi-omics techniques were employed to evaluate the effects of cold-season feeding regimes on rumen function in Tibetan sheep.Results The ruminal papilla height,width,and muscular thickness were significantly higher in BF group.The relative abundances of Actinobacteria and Succiniclasticum were significantly elevated in the rumen of BF group,whereas Rikenellaceae,Gracilibacteria,and Lachnospiraceae showed higher abundances in the TG group.Metabolomic analysis identified 19 differential metabolites between the two groups,including upregulated compounds in BF group(fumaric acid,maltose,L-phenylalanine,and L-alanine)and TG group(e.g.,phenylacetic acid,salicyluric acid and ferulic acid).These metabolites were predominantly enriched in phenylalanine metabolism,alanine,aspartate and glutamate metabolism,and phenylalanine,tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis pathways.Additionally,210 differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were identified in rumen epithelium:100 upregulated DEGs in the BF group were enriched in nutrient metabolism-related pathways(e.g.,fatty acid degradation and PPAR signaling pathway),while 110 upregulated DEGs in the TG group were associated with immune-related pathways(e.g.,p53 signaling pathway and glutathione metabolism).Conclusions Among these,we observed distinct rumen functional responses to different cold-season feeding regimes in Tibetan sheep and revealed energy allocation strategies mediated by host-microbe interactions.In the BF group,Tibetan sheep adopted a"metabolic efficiency-priority"strategy,driving rumen microbiota to maximize energy capture from high-nutrient diets to support host growth.In contrast,the TG group exhibited an"environmental adaptation-priority"strategy,where rumen microbiota prioritized cellulose degradation and anti-inflammatory functions,reallocating energy toward homeostasis maintenance at the expense of rumen development and growth performance.展开更多
基金supported in part by the Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology Projects(Department of Science and Technology,Guizhou Provincial Major Scientific and Technological Achievements Program,Qian KH achievement[2023]No.Great 004)National Natural Science Foundation of China(32202295)+2 种基金Scientific Research Project of Higher Education Institutions of Guizhou Province(Youth Project)(Qian Jiao Ji[2022]114)Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology Plan Project(Qiankehe Platform Talents-BQW[2024]008Qian KeHe Ji Chu-ZK[2022]General 051).
文摘Feeding and molting are particularly important physiological processes for insects,and it has been reported that neuropeptides are involved in the nervous regulation of these 2 processes.Sulfakinin(SK)is an important neuropeptide that is widely distributed among insects and plays a pivotal role in regulating feeding,courtship,aggression,and locomotion.In this study,we investigated the involvement of SK in feeding and molting on a highly notorious pest insect,the fall armyworm,Spodoptera frugiperda.SK transcript levels were found in all larval stages and there was a predominant expression of SK in the brain of 5th instar larvae.By immunostaining,SK was detected in 2 pairs of cells in the median protocerebrum.But during prolonged periods of starvation,there was a significant reduction in SK messenger RNA levels;however,subsequent refeeding led to a notable increase.To investigate the role of SK in feeding and molting,SK was silenced in S.frugiperda larvae through RNA interference.This resulted in a significant increase in food intake,weight gain,and the molting process happened more rapidly in the double-stranded SK-treated larvae compared to the controls.Conversely,injection of sulfated SK peptide(sSK)caused opposite effects.Interestingly,SK-knockdown in larvae resulted in increased levels of 20-hydroxyecdysone and also of the expression of some of it signaling pathway genes.Altogether,this study highlights the important role played by SK in regulating feeding and molting in S.frugiperda.
基金financially supported by the Key Research and Development Program of Shandong,China(No.2021SFGC0701)。
文摘The present study investigated the effects of varying protein source combinations and feeding strategies on the growth,health and organoleptic quality of the large yellow croaker(Larimichthys crocea).Three iso-nitrogenous and iso-lipidic diets were formulated.The control diet was made with 62%fish meal(FM).The other two experimental diets were formulated by replacing 45%FM with 22.5%mealworm(TM)and 22.5%cottonseed protein concentrate(CPC),or with 22.5%TM and 22.5%Clostridium autoethanogenum protein(CAP),respectively.The three kinds of diet were named as A1,A2 and A3,respectively.Five groups of large yellow croaker were fed with two different strategies:the first three groups were continuously fed with A1,A2 and A3 diets,respectively.The fourth group was alternately fed with A1 and A2 diet every 5 days.The fifth group was alternately fed with A1 and A3diet every 5 days.The five groups were named D1,D2,D3,D1-2 and D1-3,respectively.Results showed that D2 and D3 groups exhibited significantly lower weight gain rate(WGR)and higher feed conversion ratios(FCR)compared to the D1 group.The D1-2 and D1-3 groups exhibited improved WGR and significantly reduced FCR compared to the D2 and D3 groups.The A2 and A3 diets significantly suppressed digestive enzymes'activities compared to A1,whereas alternate-feeding groups significantly enhanced the enzyme activities.Compared to the D1 group,D2 and D3 groups significantly downregulated mRNA expression levels of intestinal antiinflammatory cytokines and upregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators.The anti-inflammatory abilities in the D1-2and D1-3 groups were significantly higher than those in the D2 and D3 groups.Additionally,diets containing TM+CAP and TM+CPC protein sources enhanced ventral redness and yellowness indices.Considering the growth,digestion,immunity and organoleptic quality of large yellow croaker,it is recommended to replace up to 45%of FM with TM+CPC and use an alternate-feeding strategy.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC),Grant/Award Number:32272909Discipline Construction Program in Sichuan Agricultural University(2221993012)China Agriculture(Beef Cattle/Yak)Research System of MOF and MARA(CARS-37)。
文摘Background As a unique livestock adapted to the harsh environment,grazing yaks frequently suffer from malnutrition and even death because of the lower yield and quality of forage in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau during the cold season.Certain stress conditions,such as environmental changes,disease,and malnutrition,can lead to a decrease in glutamine(Gln)synthesis,which fails to cover the physiological needs of the organism.Supplementation with exogenous Gln can promote nutrient digestion and improve rumen fermentation in ruminant animals under malnutrition.However,whether Gln could alleviate the barrier function injury induced by malnutrition and its mechanism is still unclear.Methods In the in vivo experiments,24 healthy yaks(31 months,265.35±25.81 kg)were randomly divided into 3 groups,namely control group(Con,free access to the basal diet),feed restriction group(FR,50% level of ad libitum feed intake),and feed restriction+Gln group(FR+Gln,50% level of ad libitum feed intake from d 1 to 30,50% level of ad libitum feed intake+1%Gln from d 31 to 60).In the in vitro experiments,the yak rumen epithelial cells(YRECs)were divided into 4 groups:Con group(complete medium),Gln group(complete medium+10 mmol/L Gln),Gln deficiency group(Gln-D,Gln-free medium),and Gln deficiency+Gln group(Gln-D+Gln,Gln-free medium+10 mmol/L Gln).Results In the in vivo experiments,FR significantly decreased the ruminal concentrations of acetate,propionate,butyrate,iso-butyrate,and total volatile fatty acid(VFA)(P<0.05).FR also reduced the m RNA expression of NHE1,Na^(+)/K^(+)-ATPase,and Ca^(2+)/Mg^(2+)-ATPase,and the concentrations of lactate,histone acetyltransferase(p300),histone deacetylase(HDAC),as well as the histone lysine lactylation level compared to Con group,while Gln supplementation alleviated them(P<0.05).In the in vitro experiments,Gln alleviated the Gln-D-induced down-regulation of NHE1,Na^(+)/K^(+)-ATPase,and Ca^(2+)/Mg^(2+)-ATPase m RNA expressions and reduction of lactate,p300,HDAC concentrations,and histone lysine lactylation level(P<0.05).Besides,p300 inhibitor abrogated Gln repair of barrier function damage in YRECs(P<0.05).Conclusions Overall,our results revealed the potential mechanism of Gln supplementation to repair malnutritioninduced damage of rumen epithelial barrier function in yaks,which might be related to histone lysine lactylation.However,because we do not have a control group receiving glutamine alone,we cannot determine the impact of Gln on the rumen epithelial function of normal yaks.
文摘This minireview synthesizes literature on the use of feeding jejunostomy tubes(FJTs)in the postoperative management of gastroesophageal cancer patients.Gastrectomy and esophagectomy remain the primary curative treatments for gastric and esophageal cancers,respectively,but are frequently accompanied by significant postoperative malnutrition,which adversely impacts surgical and oncological outcomes as well as patients’quality of life.To address this,the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Surgery and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommend early enteral feeding through FJT placement following major surgery.While previous studies have demonstrated that FJT is an effective and reliable route for nutritional support,its placement is invasive and carries associated risks.Consequently,many clinicians opt for less invasive alternatives such as total parenteral nutrition or nasogastric tube feeding,although these approaches yield variable results.This review explores the benefits and potential complications of FJT placement,identifies variability in clinical adoption and the absence of standardized protocols,and highlights areas for future research to optimize patient care in this challenging context.
基金funded by research grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.41706142 and 32071615)the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARA(No.CARS-49)the Funding for School-Level Research Projects of Yancheng Institute of Technology(No.XJR2021035)。
文摘Microplastic(MP)pollution has spread from the mainland to the ocean.However,Haizhou Bay,which is one of the important land-ocean transition zones,has been reported relatively little about the enrichment of MPs.To provide fundamental data for MP pollution in Haizhou Bay,we studied the occurrence of microplastics in the intestines of 8 species of fish with different habits and feeding modes.The fish intestines were digested with a 10%KOH solution,and MPs are separated with a glass fiber filter.Then,the size,shape,color,and composition of the MPs were analyzed using a stereomicroscope and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer.The results showed the abundance of MP intake ranged from 0.02 items g^(-1) to 0.16 items g^(-1) and the detection rate of MPs ranged from 53.33% to 80% across different fish species.The MP intake in benthic fish and omnivorous fish was significantly higher than that of pelagic fish and predatory fish.Smaller MPs(<0.25 mm)were the dominant types and accounted for 62.50% of the total.The fiber was the prevailing shape of MPs,and the black MPs were the most common,followed by red and yellow ones.Polyethylene terephthalate(PET),polyamide(PA),and polystyrene(PS)were the main components of MPs,accounting for 34.9%,29.9%,and 16.4%,respectively.According to the composition analysis of MPs,the main sources of MPs in fish of Haizhou Bay were attributed to marine aquaculture and port construction.The results are helpful for our better understanding of the status of MP pollution in this area,and further aid in the development of the pointed measures to mitigate and prevent the MP pollution in this ecologically important area.
基金supported by Grants from the Research Funds of the Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM(QYPY20220018)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31822026,32271063,31500860,and 32100821)the National Science and Technology Innovation 2030 Major Project of China(2021ZD0203900).
文摘In the face of constantly changing environments,the central nervous system(CNS)rapidly and accurately calculates the body's needs,regulates feeding behavior,and maintains energy homeostasis.The arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus(ARC)plays a key role in this process,serv-ing as a critical brain region for detecting nutrition-related hormones and regulating appetite and energy homeostasis.Agouti-related protein(AgRP)/neuropeptide Y(NPY)neu-rons in the ARC are core elements that interact with other brain regions through a complex appetite-regulating network to comprehensively control energy homeostasis.In this review,we explore the discovery and research progress of AgRP neurons in regulating feeding and energy metabolism.In addition,recent advances in terms of feeding behavior and energy homeostasis,along with the redundant neural mecha-nisms involved in energy metabolism,are discussed.Finally,the challenges and opportunities in the field of neural regula-tion of feeding and energy metabolism are briefly discussed.
基金financially supported by the Green Development and Demonstration Programme(GUDP)(case number 34009-19-1585)。
文摘Background Post-weaning diarrhea(PWD)in piglets,often caused by F4^(+)enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli(ETEC),poses significant challenges in pig production.Traditional solutions like antibiotics and zinc oxide face increasing restrictions due to growing concerns over antibiotic resistance and environmental sustainability.This study investigates the application of bivalent heavy chain variable domain(V_(H)H)constructs(BL1.2 and BL2.2)targeting ETEC virulence factors,administered in feed to mitigate ETEC-induced PWD in weaned piglets.Results The supplementation of BL1.2 and BL2.2 in both mash and pelleted feed significantly reduced the diarrhea incidence and fecal shedding of F4^(+)ETEC in challenged piglets.Pelleted feed containing V_(H)H constructs helped to preserve gut barrier integrity by maintaining levels of the tight junction protein occludin in the small intestine.Additionally,the constructs maintained blood granulocyte counts at a similar level to the non-challenged control group,including neutrophils,and ameliorated the acute phase protein response after challenge.Notably,even at low feed intake immediately after weaning,V_(H)H constructs helped maintain piglet health by mitigating ETEC-induced inflammation and the resulting diarrhea.Conclusions Our findings demonstrated that using V_(H)H constructs as feed additives could serve as an effective strategy to help manage ETEC-associated PWD,by reducing F4^(+)ETEC gut colonization and supporting gut barrier function of weaned piglets.The high stability of these V_(H)H constructs supports their incorporation into industrial feed manufacturing processes,offering a more sustainable preventive strategy compared to traditional antimicrobial interventions,which could contribute to sustainable farming practices.
文摘BACKGROUND Congenital intestinal atresia(CIA)is a common intestinal malformation in the neonatal period,and surgery is currently the main treatment method.The choice of postoperative feeding is crucial for the recovery of gastrointestinal function in children.AIM To compare and analyze the effects of different postoperative feeding methods on gastrointestinal function reconstruction in newborns with CIA.METHODS Twenty-six children diagnosed with neonatal CIA,treated with minimally invasive surgery at Shijiazhuang Maternal and Child Health Hospital between January 2021 and May 2024,were selected for this single-center prospective randomized controlled study.They were divided into two groups using envelope randomization:Enteral nutrition(EN)group(n=13)and parenteral nutrition(PN)group(n=13).Baseline and clinical characteristics were collected,and recovery time of bowel sounds and time to first defecation were used as evaluation indices for gastrointestinal functional reconstruction.Differences between the groups were analyzed using t-test,χ2 test,and Fisher’s exact test.Spearman’s correlation tests and linear regression models were employed to analyze factors influencing time to first defecation.RESULTS The time to bowel sound recovery(51.54 vs 65.85,P=0.013)and first defecation(58.15 vs 76.62,P<0.001)was shorter in the EN group compared to the PN group.Clinical improvements in the EN group,including discharge weight(P=0.044),hospital stay(P=0.027),white blood cell count(P=0.023),albumin content(P=0.013),and direct bilirubin content(P=0.018),were also better than those in the PN group.No substantial differences in postoperative complications were found between the groups.Correlation analysis indicated that abdominal infection and operation time may relate to time to first defecation.Linear regression analysis demonstrated a considerable association between EN feeding and shorter time to first defecation.Abdominal infection and an operation time>2 hours may be risk factors for prolonged time to first defecation.CONCLUSION EN substantially promotes the recovery of gastrointestinal function after CIA in neonates and can improve clinical outcomes in children.Future research should explore optimal EN practices to enhance clinical application and child health.
基金funded by the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARA (CARS-34)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32201471)+1 种基金the Development and Demonstration Project of Key Technologies for High Quality Development of Forage Industry in Ordos, Chinathe fellowship of China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2023T160697)。
文摘The “Greater Food” approach has replaced the older “taking grain production as a top priority” approach. Theimportance of feed and forage as the material basis for guaranteeing high-quality development of the livestock industry has gradually become prominent. However, owing to the tradition of “both human staple food and animal feed relying on grain production” in China and the decoupling of feed crop planting and livestock farming, the risk of feed grain security has increased, especially as it relates to the supply of high-quality protein feed ingredients from abroad, which is facing a bottleneck. To ensure food security, effective domestic agricultural production should be adopted. Nevertheless, guaranteeing the supply of high-quality protein feed through domestic soybean production is difficult because of limited arable land;furthermore, pressure on the staple food supply is still extreme. In this article, the historical and realistic implications for the security risks of feed grain in China are analyzed. Proposals are made to separate staple food grains for humans from the feed grain supply for animals and to develop high-quality forage to reduce feed grain use. High-quality forage can be supplied via intercropping with grain crops in arable land and reseeding perennial legumes or grasses into natural grasslands. However, “managing forage for grain” needs to be supported via technical paths and policies as the forage industry develops to effectively increase the capacity to ensure feed grain security.
文摘Country level assessment of feed supply and demand for livestock in Pakistan was conducted for the year 2013. Availability of feed ingredients was calculated from the official crop production statistics using published harvest index and extraction ratios, and their nutrient supply was estimated from local feed composition tables. Feed requirements of livestock species were calculated from the standard tables published by US National Research Council. The results showed that indigenous feed resources were short for livestock and poultry requirements. The supply and demand gap for dry biomass, crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME) were 19.4%, 37.2% and 38.0%, respectively. Crop residues were the predominant source comprising 58.8% of the total feed supply, while fodder and grazing shared 23.8% and 9.2%, respectively. Grains and by-products contributed 8.2% to the feed supply. In attempt to fill this gap, large quantities of oilseed meals were imported mainly for the poultry sector. Maize was the major feed grain used in poultry and ruminant rations, and they together consumed 79% of the country's total maize produce. Based on the anticipated rapid expansion in poultry, dairy and feedlot farming in Pakistan, the feed gap will further enlarge and this warrants future focus on efficient and intensive utilization of the local conventional and nonconventional feed resources. The data and information presented in this paper provided a sound basis for regular updating in future to attain sustainable growth of livestock sector in the country.
基金Supported by Key Program of Provincial Science&Technology Department(2014N3011)Special Program of Provincial Science&Technology Department Key Program(2014NZ0002)Longyan S&T Program(2015LY32)~~
文摘In this paper, Duroc-lanndrae-Yorkshire crossbred piggy of born at 75 days of age, bouncing with health and similar body weight were randomly divided into experimental group (136 pigs) and control group (136 pigs). Pigs in control group were fed with conventional diets, and 4% microbial fermentation feeds were added to the basal diet of experimental group to research on the effect of performance and meat quality of pig breeding. The results indicated that after feeding 106 d, compared to control group, the slaughter performance, meat quality and content of fatty acid and amino acid of experimental group were all better, its slaughter rate increased 1.53%, the carcass weight increased 2.75% and the backfat thickness decreased 0.02 cm. In addition, the pork meat in test group hadn't antibiotic and heavy metal residues, while it had higher color score, lower pH45min and pH24h value, better tenderness and rate of cooked meat and higher content of fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids and amino acids. Microbial fermentation feed using in test group can significantly improved the flavor and aroma of pork, and eating this pork conducive more to human health. Thus, the application of microbial fermenta- tion feed can provide a more safe, healthy and nutritious flavor pork for human beings.
文摘In aquaculture, feed represents the main component of production costs, and the development of this sector depends on the development of an economical feed formulation that meets the qualitative and quantitative requirements of fish. The aim of this study was to determine the nutritive and microbiological quality of fish feed formulated from local flours enriched with Hermetia illucens larvae. The raw materials used for formulation were fishmeal, corn meal, low-grade rice, soybean meal and Hermetia illucens larvae meal. Different iso-protein feed compositions were prepared with 0%, 10%, 25%, 35%, 50%, 65%, 75% and 100% incorporation of Hermetia illucens larvae meal as a substitute for fish meal. Biochemical and microbiological analyses of these flours were determined using standard methods. The results showed that incorporation of larvae meal had an influence on the biochemical characteristics ash (8.15 to 20.27%), lipid (11.55 to 24.94%), fiber (13.93 to 20.41%) and dry matter (89.65 to 91.19%) of various formulated feed. Loads of fecal Streptococci, Staphylococci, Aeromonas, yeasts and molds ranged from 2.4 to 4.9 log 10 CFU/g;3.6 to 3.9 log 10 CFU/g;2.2 to 2.7 log 10 CFU/g;2.1 to 2.3 log 10 CFU/g, respectively. The level of contamination of these flours was below the microbiological criteria applicable to animal feed. Feed formulated with 0% and 10% Hermetia illucens larvae showed the best nutritive and microbiological characteristics. These results suggest that flours enriched with Hermetia illucens larvae could be used in fish feed.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2021YFD1300901)the National Key R&D Young Scientists Project of China(2022YFD1302000)+1 种基金the Education Department of Gansu Province:Outstanding Postgraduate“Innovation Star”,China(2022CXZX-086)the Major Science and Technology Project of Gansu Province,China(22ZD6NC069)。
文摘Feed efficiency(FE)is a crucial economic trait that significantly impacts profitability in intensive sheep production,and can be evaluated by the residual feed intake(RFI)and feed conversion ratio(FCR).However,the underlying genetic mechanisms that underlie FE-related traits in sheep are not fully understood.Herein,we measured the FE-related traits of 1,280 Hu sheep and conducted the phenotype statistics and correlation analysis,the result showcase that there was a large variation for FE-related traits,and RFI was significant positive correlation with average daily feed intake(ADFI)and FCR.Moreover,a genome-wide association study(GWAS)was conducted using whole-genome resequencing data to investigate the genetic associations of ADFI,FCR and RFI.For ADFI and FCR traits,2 and one single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)exceeded the genome-wide significance threshold,whereas ten and 5 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.For RFI traits,only 4 SNPs exceeded the suggestive significance threshold.Finally,a total of 8 genes(LOC101121953,LOC101110202,CTNNA3,IZUMO3,PPM1E,YIPF7,ZSCAN12and LOC105603808)were identified as potential candidate genes for FE-related traits.Simultaneously,we further analyzed the effects of 2 candidate SNPs associated with RFI on growth and FE traits in enlarged experimental population,the results demonstrated that these 2 SNPs was not significantly associated with growth traits(P>0.05),but significantly related to RFI traits(P<0.05).These findings will provide valuable reference data and key genetic variants that can be used to effectively select feed-efficient individual in sheep breeding programs.
基金supported by the Capacity Building Project of Local University of Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Commission(No.10230502900)the Program for Shanghai Collaborative Innovation Center for Cultivating Elite Breeds and Green-culture of Aquaculture animals(No.2021-KJ-02-12)the Innovation Project for Chongming Agriculture Industry from Chongming District Agriculture Commission of Shanghai(No.2022CNKC-01-05)。
文摘The efficiency and mechanism of hydrous iron oxide(HFO)and HFO/calcite mixture to inactivate the phosphorus in the overlying water(OW)/sediment system under the feed adding condition were explored,and the effect of HFO and HFO/calcite mixture addition on the diversity,composition and function of bacterial communities in the sediment was examined.HFO and HFO/calcite mixture direct addition can effectively lower the concentration of soluble reactive phosphorus(RSP)and diffusion gradient in thin film-unstable phosphorus(PD GT)in OW and inactivate the P DGTin the upper sediment.The elimination efficiencies of RSP by the direct HFO and HFO/calcite mixture addition were 48.9%-97.0%and 42.4%-95.4%,respectively.The alteration in the addition mode from the one-time to multiple direct addition was beneficial to the immobilization of RSP and PD GTin OW and P DGTin the upper sediment by HFO and HFO/calcite mixture under the feed input condition in the long run.Permeable fabric wrapping reduced the inactivation efficiency of RSP in OW by HFO and HFO/calcite mixture,but it made the recycling of these materials possible.Most of P immobilized by HFO and HFO/calcite mixture was relatively or very stable.After the HFO and HFO/calcite mixture addition,the composition of bacterial communities in the surface sediment changed.However,the bacterial communities in the amended sediments still can perform good ecological function.Our findings suggest that HFO and HFO/calcite mixture are promising phosphorus-immobilization materials for the inactivation of RSP and PD GTin OW and PD GTin the upper sediment under the feed inputting condition.
基金supported by the research fund of Dankook University in 2025.
文摘The widespread ban on in-feed antibiotics in many regions has driven the search for natural alternatives to maintain health and production efficiency in swine and poultry.Phytogenic feed additives(PFAs)derived from herbs and plant extracts have emerged as promising candidates owing to their antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and antimicrobial properties.Among these,silymarin—a flavonolignan complex extracted from milk thistle(Silybum marianum)—has attracted particular attention due to its hepatoprotective and growth-promoting activities.This review summarizes the chemical characteristics and mechanisms of action of silymarin/silybin.Also,evidence from both experimental and field studies shows that silymarin improves growth performance,nutrient digestibility,gut health,and reproductive outcomes.Advances in formulation technologies,such as micellization,have been addressed for improved bioavailability of silymarin.Despite these promising results,further long-term field studies and economic evaluations are needed to fully integrate silymarin into commercial animal production systems.
基金supported by the Chinese Natural Science Foundation projects(32272915 and 32472949)National Key Research and Development Programs of China(2023YFD1301003)+1 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(2662023DKPY002)Hebei Panshuo Biotechnolog Co.,Ltd.
文摘Background This study was carried out to investigate the individual and combined contamination of aflatoxin B_(1)(AFB_(1)),deoxynivalenol(DON),and zearalenone(ZEN)in feeds in China between 2021 and 2024.A total of 23,003 feed samples,including 17,489 feedstuff samples and 5,514 complete feed samples,were collected from different provinces of China for mycotoxin analysis.Results The analyzed mycotoxins displayed considerably high contamination in the feed samples,with the individual contamination of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN were 20.0%–100%,33.3%–100%,and 85.0%–100%,respectively.The average concentrations of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN were 1.2–728.7μg/kg,106–8,634.8μg/kg,and 18.1–3,341.6μg/kg,respectively.Notably,the rates over China’s safety standards for AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN in raw ingredients were 9.7%,2.7%,and 15.7%,respectively.Meanwhile,3.5%,1.1%,and 8.7%of analyzed complete feeds exceeded China’s safety standards for AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN,respectively.Moreover,the co-contamination rates of AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN in more than 70%of raw ingredients and 87.5%of complete feed products were 60.0%–100%and 61.5%–100%,respectively.Conclusion This study reveals that the feeds in China have commonly been contaminated with AFB_(1),DON,and ZEN alone and their combination during the past four years.These findings highlight the significance of monitoring mycotoxin contaminant levels in domestic animal feed and the importance of carrying out feed administration and remediation strategies for mycotoxin control.
基金supported by Hub Mandic(Faculdade Sao Leopoldo Mandic,Campinas,SP,Brazil)。
文摘Objectives Breastfeeding plays a critical role in the healthy development of infants,yet exclusive breastfeeding(EBF)rates remain low,particularly among low-income mothers.This study aimed to develop and validate an AI-based educational innovative solution to increase breastfeeding literacy across caregivers and mothers.Methods The BabyChat(AI-based)was developed through two phases.In phase I,the content was created using the Canvas application,with the idea tree structured through MindMeister,and delivered via the ManyChat tool on Facebook.The focus was on the benefits of EBF during the initial 6 months of life,as recommended by the WHO,and continued breastfeeding until 1,000 days of life.In Phase II,functionality tests were performed using UserTesting and subsequently validated by the Content Validity Index(CVI).Healthcare professionals reviewed the clarity and relevance of the information on a four-point scale.Intra-examiner concordance was assessed by percentage of agreement and the median for each CVI-I point.Results The contents of BabyChat included 8 topics and 18 subtopics(based on relevant contents including nutritional and anatomical aspects,weaning strategies among others)aimed to educate mothers and caregivers.Five mothers participated in evaluation of the BabyChat.Overall,most participants found the chatbot’s question-and-answer functionality clear and helpful,with accurate command execution and timely response speeds,etc.However,two participants noted occasional issues such as misinterpreted questions,delayed command responses,and unclear or hard-to-find interface buttons.A total of four experts in psychology,dentistry,and medicine validated the framework.The agreement rate between experts ranged from 25%to 100%,with median values between 3 and 4,indicating excellent content relevance.Conclusion The BabyChat was developed and validated for use in increasing breastfeeding literacy among caregivers and mothers.Future studies should be considered to expand the BabyChat validation to other healthcare professionals,including nursing staff,to comprehensively capture the impact of BabyChat on mothers,as well as to incorporate population-specific topics that depend on cultural and geographical aspects.
基金funded by the Chief Scientist Program of Qinghai Province(2024-SF-102)the Joint Special Project of Sanjiangyuan National Park(LHZX-2023-02).
文摘Background As an indigenous livestock species on the Tibetan Plateau,Tibetan sheep exhibit remarkable adaptability to low temperatures and nutrient-scarce environments.During the cold season,Tibetan sheep are typically managed under two feeding regimes:barn feeding(BF)and traditional grazing(TG).However,the molecular mechanisms underlying their adaptation to these distinct management strategies remain unclear.This study aimed to investigate the adaptive strategies of rumen function in Tibetan sheep to cold-season feeding regimes by integrating analyses of rumen morphology,microbiome,metabolome,and transcriptome.Twelve healthy Tibetan sheep with similar body weights were assigned into two groups(BF vs.TG).At the end of the experiment,rumen tissues were subjected to histological observation.Multi-omics techniques were employed to evaluate the effects of cold-season feeding regimes on rumen function in Tibetan sheep.Results The ruminal papilla height,width,and muscular thickness were significantly higher in BF group.The relative abundances of Actinobacteria and Succiniclasticum were significantly elevated in the rumen of BF group,whereas Rikenellaceae,Gracilibacteria,and Lachnospiraceae showed higher abundances in the TG group.Metabolomic analysis identified 19 differential metabolites between the two groups,including upregulated compounds in BF group(fumaric acid,maltose,L-phenylalanine,and L-alanine)and TG group(e.g.,phenylacetic acid,salicyluric acid and ferulic acid).These metabolites were predominantly enriched in phenylalanine metabolism,alanine,aspartate and glutamate metabolism,and phenylalanine,tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis pathways.Additionally,210 differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were identified in rumen epithelium:100 upregulated DEGs in the BF group were enriched in nutrient metabolism-related pathways(e.g.,fatty acid degradation and PPAR signaling pathway),while 110 upregulated DEGs in the TG group were associated with immune-related pathways(e.g.,p53 signaling pathway and glutathione metabolism).Conclusions Among these,we observed distinct rumen functional responses to different cold-season feeding regimes in Tibetan sheep and revealed energy allocation strategies mediated by host-microbe interactions.In the BF group,Tibetan sheep adopted a"metabolic efficiency-priority"strategy,driving rumen microbiota to maximize energy capture from high-nutrient diets to support host growth.In contrast,the TG group exhibited an"environmental adaptation-priority"strategy,where rumen microbiota prioritized cellulose degradation and anti-inflammatory functions,reallocating energy toward homeostasis maintenance at the expense of rumen development and growth performance.