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 Insect meals have been identified as innovative and sustainable feedstuffs that could be used in ruminant nutrition.However,current research on the effects that their processing may have on rumen digestibil...Background Insect meals have been identified as innovative and sustainable feedstuffs that could be used in ruminant nutrition.However,current research on the effects that their processing may have on rumen digestibility and fatty acid(FA)biohydrogenation is scant.This trial aims to investigate the effects(i)of drying temperature of fullfat Hermetia illucens(HI)and Tenebrio molitor(TM)meals,and(ii)of residual ether extract(EE)content of defatted HI and TM meals,on their fermentation characteristics and FA of rumen digesta after 24-h in vitro rumen incubation.Methods The tested full-fat meals included four HI and four TM meals obtained applying drying temperatures ranging from 30℃ to 70℃,while the tested defatted meals consisted of five HI and two TM meals containing a residual EE content ranging from 4.7 to 19.7 g EE/100 g dry matter(DM).The applied statistical models(GLM ANOVA)tested the effects of insect species,drying temperature(full-fat meals)or EE content(defatted meals),and their interaction.Results Drying temperature had minor effects on in vitro ruminal digestibility and FA profile of rumen digesta.Irrespective of insect species,increasing the drying temperature led to a reduction of in vitro degradation of proteins from insect meals,as outlined by the significant decrease in ammonia production(-0.009 mmol/g DM and-0.126 g/100 g total N for each additional 1℃).Irrespective of insect species,defatting increased total gas,volatile fatty acids(VFA)and CH_(4) productions,and the proportions of total saturated and branched-chain FA in rumen digesta(+0.038 mmol/g DM,+0.063 mmol/g DM,+12.9μmol/g DM,+0.18 g/100 g FA,and+0.19 g/100 g FA for each reduced 1 g EE/100 g DM,respectively),and reduced the proportion of total PUFA(-0.12 g/100 g FA).Conclusions The applied drying temperatures of full-fat insect meals are too low to exert impactful effects on rumen digestibility and FA biohydrogenation.Fat lowered fermentation activity,probably because of an inhibitory effect on rumen microbiota.The increased ruminal digestibility of defatted insect meals suggests that they can be more suitable to be used in ruminant nutrition than full-fat ones.展开更多
Background The present experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of commercially processed former foodstuffs(cFF)as dietary substitutes of corn,soybean meal and soybean oil on the growth performance,apparent total trac...Background The present experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of commercially processed former foodstuffs(cFF)as dietary substitutes of corn,soybean meal and soybean oil on the growth performance,apparent total tract digestibil-ity(ATTD),hematobiochemical profiles,and liver gene abundance in broiler chickens.Two hundred one-day-old male ROSS-308 chicks were assigned to 4 dietary groups(5 replicates of ten birds per replicate)according to their average body weight(BW,38.0±0.11 g).All groups received a two-phase feeding program:starter,d 1–12 and grower,d 12–33.The control group(cFF0)was fed a standard commercial feed based on corn,soybean meal and soybean oil.The other three groups received diets in which the feed based on corn,soybean meal,and soybean oil was partially replaced with cFF at a substitution level of 6.25%(cFF6.25),12.5%(cFF12.5)or 25%(cFF25)for the following 33 d.Results The growth performance data showed no differences in BW or average daily gain among groups,although the average daily feed intake decreased during the grower period(12–33 d)and over entire experimental period(1–33 d)in a linear manner as the cFF inclusion level rose(P=0.026),positively affecting the gain to feed ratio(P=0.001).The ATTD of dry matter of the cFF-fed groups were greater with respect to control group and increased throughout the experimental period,whereas the ATTD of ether extract linearly decreased with increasing levels of cFF-fed groups compared with control group and throughout the experimental period(P<0.05).Additionally,a lin-ear increase in the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio,serum cholesterol,triglycerides and alanine-aminotransferase were observed with increasing dietary levels of cFF(P<0.05);however,no differences were observed in lipoprotein lipase or sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor gene abundance.Conclusions The results of this experiment demonstrate that it is possible to incorporate cFF into nutritionally balanced diets for broiler chickens,even up to 25%substitution levels,for up to 33 d without adversely impacting the overall growth performance of male broiler chickens raised under commercial conditions.Further studies are essential to validate the hematological trait findings.展开更多
Emerging infectious diseases are a major threat to biodiversity and an important public health issue.Flaviviruses are the cause of several emerging vector-borne zoonotic arboviruses whose distribution is currently inc...Emerging infectious diseases are a major threat to biodiversity and an important public health issue.Flaviviruses are the cause of several emerging vector-borne zoonotic arboviruses whose distribution is currently increasing in Europe.The evidence that West Nile virus(WNV)circulates in resident and migratory species has implications for both animal and public health and should therefore be studied in depth.USUTU(USUV),Bagaza(BAGV)and tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV)are other viruses that are beginning to spread more widely.An integrated surveillance program,namely in birds,is essential for reducing the risk of infection in human populations within the One Health principles.In the present study,wild birds admitted to wildlife rehabilitation centers in Portugal were sampled.Two hundred eight blood samples were assayed serologically for antibodies to flaviviruses by using a commercial ELISA kit.An over-all seroprevalence of 19.6%(95%confidence interval[CI]:13.7-26.7%)was observed.Antibodies against flaviviruses were detected in 13(35.1%)different species of wild birds.Accipitriformes(26.7%;95%CI:18.5-36.2%)and Strigi-formes(26.7%;95%CI:14.6-42.0%)were the orders with the highest seroprevalence rates recorded.There were no statistically significant differences(p=0.725)between the geographical regions(NUTSⅡ)studied,but a statistically significant difference(p=0.017)was found between sex(male:34.4%;female:4.8%).A higher seroprevalence was detected in adults(32.1%)than in juvenile birds(9.3%)(p=0.014),and age was considered a risk factor for flavivirus infection in wild birds(odds ratio 1.4;95%CI:0.5-4.0).More epidemiological studies are needed in Portugal since the actual spread of the genus Flavivirus throughout the country is unknown.展开更多
Background Genome editing has been considered as powerful tool in agricultural fields.However,genome editing progress in cattle has not been fast as in other mammal species,for some disadvantages including long gestat...Background Genome editing has been considered as powerful tool in agricultural fields.However,genome editing progress in cattle has not been fast as in other mammal species,for some disadvantages including long gestational periods,single pregnancy,and high raising cost.Furthermore,technically demanding methods such as microinjection and somatic cell nuclear transfer(SCNT)are needed for gene editing in cattle.In this point of view,electroporation in embryos has been risen as an alternative.Results First,editing efficiency of our electroporation methods were tested for embryos.Presence of mutation on embryo was confirmed by T7E1 assay.With first combination,mutation rates for MSTN and PRNP were 57.6%±13.7%and 54.6%±13.5%,respectively.In case of MSTN/BLG,mutation rates were 83.9%±23.6%for MSTN,84.5%±18.0%for BLG.Afterwards,the double-KO embryos were transferred to surrogates and mutation rate was identified in resultant calves by targeted deep sequencing.Thirteen recipients were transferred for MSTN/PRNP,4 calves were delivered,and one calf underwent an induction for double KO.Ten surrogates were given double-KO embryos for MSTN/BLG,and four of the six calves that were born had mutations in both genes.Conclusions These data demonstrated that production of genome edited cattle via electroporation of RNP could be effectively applied.Finally,MSTN and PRNP from beef cattle and MSTN and BLG from dairy cattle have been born and they will be valuable resources for future precision breeding.展开更多
Misuse, overuse, and missed prescription of antimicrobials are the driving factors to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) leading to a globally increasing public health concern. This study was conducted to assess the curre...Misuse, overuse, and missed prescription of antimicrobials are the driving factors to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) leading to a globally increasing public health concern. This study was conducted to assess the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of village animal health workers (VAHWs) and veterinary drug retailers (VDRs) on antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The sample size was calculated following [1]. KAP data were scored and categorized following Bloom’s cut-off score. A total of 108 study populations (66 VAHWs and 42 VDRs) were purposively surveyed using a validated KAP questionnaire in 5 provinces across Cambodia. This study found that VAHWs and VDRs have moderate levels of knowledge (61% to 65%) and good attitudes towards AMU (83% to 84%) but employed moderate practices (59% to 74%) on AMU. VAHWs had moderate (66%);while DVRs had poor knowledge (58%) on AMR. Thus, regular awareness education specifically on proper use, prudent use, and stewardships on AMU and AMR in the form of refresher training or awareness events must be provided to VAHWs and VDRs to avoid inappropriate use of antimicrobials and spreading the AMR knowledge across Cambodia.展开更多
Background The provision of environmental enrichments to Muscovy ducks could reduce the expression of the aggressive behaviors.The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of black soldier fly(BSF)and yell...Background The provision of environmental enrichments to Muscovy ducks could reduce the expression of the aggressive behaviors.The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of black soldier fly(BSF)and yellow mealworm(YM)live larva provision on Muscovy duck performance,excreta corticosterone metabolites(ECM),behavior,and blood parameters.Methods A total of 1263-day-old female Muscovy ducklings were allotted to 18 pens(6 replicates/treatment,7 birds/pen)and assigned to 3 experimental treatments:a control group fed commercial feed,and two experimental treatments fed commercial feed plus the 5%(based on the expected daily feed intake,as fed basis)of BSF and YM live larvae(BSF and YM groups,respectively).A two-phase feeding program was applied:starter(from 3 to 31 days of age)and grower-finisher(from 32 to 55 days of age).The live weight,average daily gain,average daily feed intake,and feed conversion ratio were calculated.Larva consumption times were collected,and video recordings were performed during 3 periods(P)each day:the hour before(P1),during(P2),and after(P3)the larva administration.ECM were evaluated at 3,31,and 55-day-old.Finally,the total red and white blood cell counts,serum proteins,lipids,and liver and renal function serum enzymes were evaluated on 12 birds/treatment.Results The experimental treatment did not affect the growth performance of the birds(P>0.05).Larva consumption times were always similar between the two insect species,except at 14–18 days of age,were BSF larvae were consumed faster than YM larvae(P<0.001).The birds showed less walking activity during P2,and preening behavior increased in YM birds during P3.The C birds increased the attack behavior over the weeks(P<0.05).During weeks 1–3 the YM group reduced the attack frequency(P1>P3;P<0.05).Finally,the provision of live BSF and YM larvae significantly reduced the ECM at 55 days of age and the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio(P<0.05).Conclusions Live BSF and YM larva supplementation in Muscovy duck improves duck welfare,without impairing birds'growth performance.展开更多
Manual investigation of chest radiography(CXR)images by physicians is crucial for effective decision-making in COVID-19 diagnosis.However,the high demand during the pandemic necessitates auxiliary help through image a...Manual investigation of chest radiography(CXR)images by physicians is crucial for effective decision-making in COVID-19 diagnosis.However,the high demand during the pandemic necessitates auxiliary help through image analysis and machine learning techniques.This study presents a multi-threshold-based segmentation technique to probe high pixel intensity regions in CXR images of various pathologies,including normal cases.Texture information is extracted using gray co-occurrence matrix(GLCM)-based features,while vessel-like features are obtained using Frangi,Sato,and Meijering filters.Machine learning models employing Decision Tree(DT)and RandomForest(RF)approaches are designed to categorize CXR images into common lung infections,lung opacity(LO),COVID-19,and viral pneumonia(VP).The results demonstrate that the fusion of texture and vesselbased features provides an effective ML model for aiding diagnosis.The ML model validation using performance measures,including an accuracy of approximately 91.8%with an RF-based classifier,supports the usefulness of the feature set and classifier model in categorizing the four different pathologies.Furthermore,the study investigates the importance of the devised features in identifying the underlying pathology and incorporates histogrambased analysis.This analysis reveals varying natural pixel distributions in CXR images belonging to the normal,COVID-19,LO,and VP groups,motivating the incorporation of additional features such as mean,standard deviation,skewness,and percentile based on the filtered images.Notably,the study achieves a considerable improvement in categorizing COVID-19 from LO,with a true positive rate of 97%,further substantiating the effectiveness of the methodology implemented.展开更多
Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)are multipotent adult stem cells of mesodermal origin that can be isolated from various tissues,including bone marrow,tooth pulp,adipose tissue,and umbilical cord.MSCs have gained significa...Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)are multipotent adult stem cells of mesodermal origin that can be isolated from various tissues,including bone marrow,tooth pulp,adipose tissue,and umbilical cord.MSCs have gained significant attention in regenerative medicine due to their ability to modulate the immune system and favor tissue repair.MSCs enrich the medium in which they are cultivated with a broad range of bioactive molecules,including growth factors,cytokines,chemokines,enzymes,nucleic acids,and extracellular vesicles that collectively compose the MSC secretome.An increasing number of pre-clinical studies suggest that delivering in vivo an MSC-conditioned medium(i.e.,the medium collected from MSC cultures after at least 3 days of exposure)exerts neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in a variety of neurological conditions.展开更多
Brain plasticity-A universal tool with many variations:The study of brain plasticity has been gaining interest since almost a century and has now reached a huge amount of information(>80,000 results in PubMed).Over...Brain plasticity-A universal tool with many variations:The study of brain plasticity has been gaining interest since almost a century and has now reached a huge amount of information(>80,000 results in PubMed).Overall,different types of plasticity,including stem cell-driven genesis of new neurons(adult neurogenesis),cells in arrested maturation(dormant neurons),neuro-glial and synaptic plasticity,can coexist and contribute to grant plastic changes in the brain,from a cellular to system level(Benedetti and Couillard-Despres,2022;Bonfanti et al.,2023).展开更多
The capacity of the central nervous system for structural plasticity and regeneration is commonly believed to show a decreasing progression from“small and simple”brains to the larger,more complex brains of mammals.H...The capacity of the central nervous system for structural plasticity and regeneration is commonly believed to show a decreasing progression from“small and simple”brains to the larger,more complex brains of mammals.However,recent findings revealed that some forms of neural plasticity can show a reverse trend.Although plasticity is a well-preserved,transversal feature across the animal world,a variety of cell populations and mechanisms seem to have evolved to enable structural modifications to take place in widely different brains,likely as adaptations to selective pressures.Increasing evidence now indicates that a trade-off has occurred between regenerative(mostly stem cell–driven)plasticity and developmental(mostly juvenile)remodeling,with the latter primarily aimed not at brain repair but rather at“sculpting”the neural circuits based on experience.In particular,an evolutionary trade-off has occurred between neurogenic processes intended to support the possibility of recruiting new neurons throughout life and the different ways of obtaining new neurons,and between the different brain locations in which plasticity occurs.This review first briefly surveys the different types of plasticity and the complexity of their possible outcomes and then focuses on recent findings showing that the mammalian brain has a stem cell–independent integration of new neurons into pre-existing(mature)neural circuits.This process is still largely unknown but involves neuronal cells that have been blocked in arrested maturation since their embryonic origin(also termed“immature”or“dormant”neurons).These cells can then restart maturation throughout the animal's lifespan to become functional neurons in brain regions,such as the cerebral cortex and amygdala,that are relevant to high-order cognition and emotions.Unlike stem cell–driven postnatal/adult neurogenesis,which significantly decreases from small-brained,short-living species to large-brained ones,immature neurons are particularly abundant in large-brained,long-living mammals,including humans.The immature neural cell populations hosted in these complex brains are an interesting example of an“enlarged road”in the phylogenetic trend of plastic potential decreases commonly observed in the animal world.The topic of dormant neurons that covary with brain size and gyrencephaly represents a prospective turning point in the field of neuroplasticity,with important translational outcomes.These cells can represent a reservoir of undifferentiated neurons,potentially granting plasticity within the high-order circuits subserving the most sophisticated cognitive skills that are important in the growing brains of young,healthy individuals and are frequently affected by debilitating neurodevelopmental and degenerative disorders.展开更多
The increasing interest in the study of spontaneous(SY)and contagious yawning(CY)was so far focused on several taxa,especially primates.Here,we focused on SY and CY in horses,a suitable species due to their complex so...The increasing interest in the study of spontaneous(SY)and contagious yawning(CY)was so far focused on several taxa,especially primates.Here,we focused on SY and CY in horses,a suitable species due to their complex social dynamics that has been largely overlooked in research on these phenomena.By analyzing videos of 48 horses on pasture,we identified 2 yawning morphologies:Covered(Y_(CT))and Uncovered Teeth(Y_(UCT)).Using EquiFACS,we quantitatively demonstrated that Y_(CT) and Y_(UCT) differ in terms of muscle recruitment.Moreover,we provide the first evidence for the presence of CY by comparing 2 different conditions:chewing-yawn-chewing versus chewing-chewing-chewing.Supporting the Social Modulation hypothesis,in our mares,CY was more prominent among subjects sharing good relationships.Moreover,subjects responded more rapidly to kin compared with non-kin and kin frequently grooming each other responded even more rapidly to each other yawns.The high familiar yawn sensitivity can provide selective advantages increasing behavioral synchronization and group cohesion.展开更多
Background Scant information is currently available on the use of insect oils in ruminant diets.Insect oils could be used as alternatives to certain conventional plant lipid sources that are considered no longer susta...Background Scant information is currently available on the use of insect oils in ruminant diets.Insect oils could be used as alternatives to certain conventional plant lipid sources that are considered no longer sustainable.This trial aims at evaluating the effects of the dietary inclusion of Hermetia illucens oil(HIO)vs.hydrogenated palm fat(HPF)on digestive parameters,oxidative stress,and milk production performance of dairy cows.Results Twenty-six Valdostana Red Pied cows were randomly divided into two groups and fed with hay ad libitum and a concentrate containing 3%(as fed)of either HPF or HIO.The trial lasted 50 d,including two weeks of diet adaptation.Individual feed intake and milk yield were monitored three and four times a week,respectively.Fecal samples were collected at the end(d 50)of the trial to determine total-tract nutrients apparent digestibility.Individual blood samples were collected to evaluate blood plasma metabolites(d 0 and d 50)and oxidative stress parameters(d 0,d 26 and d 50).Milk samples were collected at d 0,d 14,d 26,d 38 and d 50 for chemical composition analysis.Feed efficiency was estimated through feed conversion ratio and residual feed intake(RFI).Data were analyzed by SAS software using a mixed model.The diet had no effect on nutrients intake and apparent total-tract digestibility.However,the dietary inclusion of HIO led to higher milk production(+0.82 kg/cow/d;P<0.05)and slightly lower RFI(−0.008;P<0.001)when compared to the HPF diet.Milk composition and the nutritional metabolic status of the cows remained unaffected by diet.Serum antioxidant capacity was comparable between the two groups,while lower derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolite concentrations were observed in the HIO-fed cows when compared to the HPF-fed ones(−37.13 Carratelli Units;P<0.001).Conclusions The dietary inclusion of HIO instead of HPF did not negatively affect feed palatability and total-tract apparent digestibility of nutrients in dairy cows.Furthermore,it increased feed efficiency by supporting a higher milk production together with an improved antioxidant status.The results suggest that HIO could be an eligible option as an innovative energy source for dairy cows.展开更多
Zoonotic hookworm infections remain a significant public health problem,causing nearly 500 million cases globally and approximately four million disability-adjusted life years lost annually.More than one-fifth of thes...Zoonotic hookworm infections remain a significant public health problem,causing nearly 500 million cases globally and approximately four million disability-adjusted life years lost annually.More than one-fifth of these cases are attributed to Ancylostoma ceylanicum,an emerging zoonotic health issue in the Asia-Pacific region.This review presents key research gaps regarding the epidemiology,diagnosis,control,prevention and elimination of A.ceylanicum and other canine zoonotic hookworms as neglected health threats.A.ceylanicum is the second most prevalent human hookworm in the region;it is the most common hookworm among dogs and cats-reservoirs of zoonotic infections.Previous population genetic and phylogenetic analyses revealed that A.ceylanicum has three possible transmission dynamics:zoonotic,animal-only,and human-only pathways.The actual burden of zoonotic ancylostomiasis in most endemic countries remains unknown due to the use of parasitological techniques(e.g.,Kato-Katz thick smear and floatation techniques)that have reduced diagnostic performance and do not allow accurate species identification in helminth surveys.The emergence of benzimidazole resistance in soil-transmitted helminths(STHs),including hookworms,is a concern due to the protracted implementation of mass drug administration(MDA).Resistance is conferred by single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)that occur in theβ-tubulin isotype 1 gene.These mutations have been reported in drug-resistant A.caninum but have not been found in A.ceylanicum in the field.A.ceylanicum remains understudied in the Asia-Pacific region.The zoonotic nature of the parasite warrants investigation of its occurrence in human and animal reservoir hosts to understand the dynamics of zoonotic transmission in different endemic foci.The detection of benzimidazole resistance-associated SNPs in zoonotic hookworms from Asia-Pacific countries has yet to be thoroughly explored.Considering the high level of hookworm endemicity in the region,the circulation of resistant isolates between humans and animals potentially presents a significant One Health threat that can undermine current MDA and proposed animal deworming-based control efforts.展开更多
Background: The study aimed to determine the apparent total tract digestibility coefficients(ATTDC) of nutrients, the apparent metabolizable energy(AME and AMEn) and the amino acid(AA) apparent ileal digestibility coe...Background: The study aimed to determine the apparent total tract digestibility coefficients(ATTDC) of nutrients, the apparent metabolizable energy(AME and AMEn) and the amino acid(AA) apparent ileal digestibility coefficients(AIDC)of a partially defatted(BSFp) and a highly defatted(BSFh) black soldier fly larvae meal. The experimental diets were: a basal diet and two diets prepared by substituting 250 g/kg(w/w) of the basal diet with BSFp or BSFh, respectively.Results: Significant differences were found between BSFp and BSFh meals for ATTDC of the nutrients: BSFp resulted more digestible than BSFh, except for ATTDC of CP which did not differed between meals, while a statistical trend was observed for ATTDC of DM and EE. The AME and AMEn values were significantly(P < 0.05) different between the two BSF meals, with higher levels for BSFp(16.25 and 14.87 MJ/kg DM, respectively). The AIDC of the AA in BSFp ranged from 0.44 to 0.92, while in BSFh they ranged from 0.45 to 0.99. No significant differences were observed for the AA digestibility(0.77 and 0.80 for BSFp and BSFh, respectively), except for glutamic acid, proline and serine that were more digestible in the BSFh meal(P < 0.05).Conclusions: Defatted BSF meals can be considered as an excellent source of AME and digestible AA for broilers with a better efficient nutrient digestion. These considerations suggested the effective utilization of defatted BSF larvae meal in poultry feed formulation.展开更多
Background: Two trials were performed to evaluate a partially defatted Hermetia illucens(HI) larvae meal as potential feed ingredient in rainbow trout(Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum) diets. In the first trial, 360 trout(...Background: Two trials were performed to evaluate a partially defatted Hermetia illucens(HI) larvae meal as potential feed ingredient in rainbow trout(Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum) diets. In the first trial, 360 trout(178.9 ± 9.8 g of mean initial body weight) were randomly divided into three experimental groups(4 tanks/treatment, 30 fish/tank). The fish were fed for 78 days with isonitrogenous, isolipidic and isoenergetic diets containing increasing levels of HI, on as fed basis: 0%(HI0, control diet), 25%(HI25) and 50%(HI50) of fish meal substitution, corresponding to dietary inclusion levels of 0, 20% and 40%. In the second trial, 36 trout(4 tanks/treatment, 3 fish/tank) were used to evaluate the in vivo apparent digestibility coefficients(ADC) of the same diets used in the first trial.Results: Survival, growth performance, condition factor, somatic indexes, and dorsal fillet physical quality parameters were not affected by diet. The highest dietary inclusion of HI larvae meal increased dry matter and ether extract contents of trout dorsal fillet. The use of HI larvae meal induced a decrease of valuable polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFA) even if differences were only reported at the highest level of HI inclusion. The insect meal worsened the lipids health indexes of the same muscle. Dietary inclusion of insect meal did not alter the villus height of the fish. No differences were found among treatments in relation to ADC of ether extract and gross energy, while ADC of dry matter and crude protein were higher in HI25 if compared to HI50.Conclusions: The obtained results showed that a partially defatted HI larvae meal can be used as feed ingredient in trout diets up to 40% of inclusion level without impacting survival, growth performance, condition factor, somatic indexes, dorsal fillet physical quality parameters, and intestinal morphology of the fish. However, further investigations on specific feeding strategies and diet formulations are needed to limit the observed negative effects of the insect meal on the FA composition of dorsal muscle.展开更多
Background:The aim of this trial was to investigate the effects of different inclusion levels of a partially defatted black soldier fly (BSF,Hermetia illucens L.) larva meal on the growth performance,nutrient digestib...Background:The aim of this trial was to investigate the effects of different inclusion levels of a partially defatted black soldier fly (BSF,Hermetia illucens L.) larva meal on the growth performance,nutrient digestibility,blood profile,gut morphology and histological features of piglets.A total of 48 newly weaned piglets were individually weighed (initial body weight (IBW):6.1 ± 0.16 kg) and randomly allocated to 3 dietary treatments (4 boxes as replicates/treatment and 4 animals/box).BSF larva meal was included at increasing levels (0% [BSF0],5% [BSFS] and 10% [BSF10]) in isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets formulated for two feeding phases:Ⅰ (from d 1 to d 23) and Ⅱ (from d 24 to d 61).The weight gain (WG),average daily gain (ADG),average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were calculated for each feeding phase and for the whole trial.The haematochemical parameters and nutrient digestibility of the piglets were also evaluated.A total of 3 piglets per box were slaughtered on d 61 and the slaughtered piglets were submitted to morphometric investigations and histopathological examinations.Results:No overall significant differences were observed for growth performance (P > 0.05),except for the ADFI of phase Ⅱ,which showed a linear response to increasing BSF meal levels (P < 0.05,maximum for the BSF10 group).Dietary BSF meal inclusion did not significantly influence the blood profile,except as far as monocytes and neutrophils are concerned,and these showed a linear and quadratic response,respectively,to increasing BSF meal levels (P < 0.05,maximum for the BSF10 and BSF5 groups,respectively).On the other hand,the nutrient digestibility,gut morphology and histological features were not affected by dietary BSF meal inclusion (P > 0.05).Conclusions:The obtained results show that a partially defatted BSF larva meal can be used as a feed ingredient in diets for weaned piglets without negatively affecting their growth performance,nutrient digestibility,blood profile,gut morphology or histological features.展开更多
The gastrointestinal tract of livestock and poultry is prone to challenge by feedborne antigens,pathogens,and other stress factors in the farm environment.Excessive physiological inflammation and oxidative stress that...The gastrointestinal tract of livestock and poultry is prone to challenge by feedborne antigens,pathogens,and other stress factors in the farm environment.Excessive physiological inflammation and oxidative stress that arises firstly disrupts the intestinal epithelial barrier followed by other components of the gastrointestinal tract.In the present review,the interrelationship between intestinal barrier inflammation and oxidative stress that contributes to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease was described.Further,the role of naturally existing immunomodulatory nutrients such as the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids,citrus pectin,and milk-derived exosomes in preventing intestinal barrier inflammation was discussed.Based on the existing evidence,the possible molecular mechanism of these bioactive nutrients in the intestinal barrier was outlined for application in animal diets.展开更多
The single and combinational effects of cadmium （Cd） and fluoranthene （FLT） on germination, growth and photosynthesis of soybean seedlings were investigated. Exposure to 5, 10, or 15 mg Cd/L or 1, 5, or 10 mg FLT/...The single and combinational effects of cadmium （Cd） and fluoranthene （FLT） on germination, growth and photosynthesis of soybean seedlings were investigated. Exposure to 5, 10, or 15 mg Cd/L or 1, 5, or 10 mg FLT/L individually or in combination significantly decreased germination vigor （3 days） and final germination rate of soybean seeds, except at 1 and 5 mg FLT/L. The results of two-way ANOVA analysis and the Bliss independence model showed that at lower concentrations of FLT （1 mg/L）, the interaction between Cd and FLT on germination was antagonistic, whereas the interaction was synergistic when the concentration of FLT was 5 or 10 mg/L and the concentration of Cd was 15 mg/L. Growth, expressed as dry weight, length of shoot and root, leaf area, and photosynthesis, expressed as net photosynthetic rate, intercellular CO2 concentration, chlorophyll contents and fluorescence of soybean seedlings were also reduced by exposure to 5 or 10 mg Cd/L or 1 or 5 mg FLT/L, singly or jointly. Significant antagonistic effects of exposure to 5 or 10 mg Cd/L or 1 or 5 mg FLT/L on shoot growth and photosynthesis were observed, whereas synergy and antagonism of Cd and FLT were both observed for root growth.展开更多
Background: The constant interaction between diet and intestinal barrier has a crucial role in determining gut health in pigs. Hermetia illucens(HI) meal(that represents a promising, alternative feed ingredient for pr...Background: The constant interaction between diet and intestinal barrier has a crucial role in determining gut health in pigs. Hermetia illucens(HI) meal(that represents a promising, alternative feed ingredient for production animals) has recently been demonstrated to influence colonic microbiota, bacterial metabolite profile and mucosal immune status of pigs, but no data about modulation of gut mucin dynamics are currently available. The present study evaluated the effects of dietary HI meal inclusion on the small intestinal mucin composition of piglets, as well as providing insights into the cecal microbiota and the mucosal infiltration with immune cells.Results: A total of 48 weaned piglets were randomly allotted to 3 dietary treatments(control diet [C] and 5% or10% HI meal inclusion [HI5 and HI10], with 4 replicate boxes/treatment and 4 animals/box) and slaughtered after61 days of trial(3 animals/box, 12 piglets/diet). The cecal microbiota assessment by 16 S r RNA amplicon based sequencing showed higher beta diversity in the piglets fed the HI-based diets than the C(P < 0.001). Furthermore,the HI-fed animals showed increased abundance of Blautia, Chlamydia, Coprococcus, Eubacterium, Prevotella,Roseburia, unclassified members of Ruminococcaceae, Ruminococcus and Staphylococcus when compared to the C group(FDR < 0.05). The gut of the piglets fed the HI-based diets showed greater neutral mucin percentage than the C(P < 0.05), with the intestinal neutral mucins of the HI-fed animals being also higher than the sialomucins and the sulfomucins found in the gut of the C group(P < 0.05). Furthermore, the piglets fed the HI-based diets displayed lower histological scores in the jejunum than the other gut segments(ileum [HI5] or ileum and duodenum [HI10], P < 0.05).Conclusions: Dietary HI meal utilization positively influenced the cecal microbiota and the small intestinal mucin dynamics of the piglets in terms of selection of potentially beneficial bacteria and preservation of mature mucin secretory architecture, without determining the development of gut inflammation. These findings further confirm the suitability of including insect meal in swine diets.展开更多
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.
基金partially granted by the Hi-Ga project,which is part of the programme of the Green ERA-Hub that has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under Grant Agreement No.101056828self-financed by the DINAMIC team of the UMR Herbivores(INRAE,VetAgro Sup,Saint-Genès-Champanelle,France)。
文摘Background Insect meals have been identified as innovative and sustainable feedstuffs that could be used in ruminant nutrition.However,current research on the effects that their processing may have on rumen digestibility and fatty acid(FA)biohydrogenation is scant.This trial aims to investigate the effects(i)of drying temperature of fullfat Hermetia illucens(HI)and Tenebrio molitor(TM)meals,and(ii)of residual ether extract(EE)content of defatted HI and TM meals,on their fermentation characteristics and FA of rumen digesta after 24-h in vitro rumen incubation.Methods The tested full-fat meals included four HI and four TM meals obtained applying drying temperatures ranging from 30℃ to 70℃,while the tested defatted meals consisted of five HI and two TM meals containing a residual EE content ranging from 4.7 to 19.7 g EE/100 g dry matter(DM).The applied statistical models(GLM ANOVA)tested the effects of insect species,drying temperature(full-fat meals)or EE content(defatted meals),and their interaction.Results Drying temperature had minor effects on in vitro ruminal digestibility and FA profile of rumen digesta.Irrespective of insect species,increasing the drying temperature led to a reduction of in vitro degradation of proteins from insect meals,as outlined by the significant decrease in ammonia production(-0.009 mmol/g DM and-0.126 g/100 g total N for each additional 1℃).Irrespective of insect species,defatting increased total gas,volatile fatty acids(VFA)and CH_(4) productions,and the proportions of total saturated and branched-chain FA in rumen digesta(+0.038 mmol/g DM,+0.063 mmol/g DM,+12.9μmol/g DM,+0.18 g/100 g FA,and+0.19 g/100 g FA for each reduced 1 g EE/100 g DM,respectively),and reduced the proportion of total PUFA(-0.12 g/100 g FA).Conclusions The applied drying temperatures of full-fat insect meals are too low to exert impactful effects on rumen digestibility and FA biohydrogenation.Fat lowered fermentation activity,probably because of an inhibitory effect on rumen microbiota.The increased ruminal digestibility of defatted insect meals suggests that they can be more suitable to be used in ruminant nutrition than full-fat ones.
基金Department of Veterinary Sciences“Ricerca Locale–Linea A”.
文摘Background The present experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of commercially processed former foodstuffs(cFF)as dietary substitutes of corn,soybean meal and soybean oil on the growth performance,apparent total tract digestibil-ity(ATTD),hematobiochemical profiles,and liver gene abundance in broiler chickens.Two hundred one-day-old male ROSS-308 chicks were assigned to 4 dietary groups(5 replicates of ten birds per replicate)according to their average body weight(BW,38.0±0.11 g).All groups received a two-phase feeding program:starter,d 1–12 and grower,d 12–33.The control group(cFF0)was fed a standard commercial feed based on corn,soybean meal and soybean oil.The other three groups received diets in which the feed based on corn,soybean meal,and soybean oil was partially replaced with cFF at a substitution level of 6.25%(cFF6.25),12.5%(cFF12.5)or 25%(cFF25)for the following 33 d.Results The growth performance data showed no differences in BW or average daily gain among groups,although the average daily feed intake decreased during the grower period(12–33 d)and over entire experimental period(1–33 d)in a linear manner as the cFF inclusion level rose(P=0.026),positively affecting the gain to feed ratio(P=0.001).The ATTD of dry matter of the cFF-fed groups were greater with respect to control group and increased throughout the experimental period,whereas the ATTD of ether extract linearly decreased with increasing levels of cFF-fed groups compared with control group and throughout the experimental period(P<0.05).Additionally,a lin-ear increase in the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio,serum cholesterol,triglycerides and alanine-aminotransferase were observed with increasing dietary levels of cFF(P<0.05);however,no differences were observed in lipoprotein lipase or sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor gene abundance.Conclusions The results of this experiment demonstrate that it is possible to incorporate cFF into nutritionally balanced diets for broiler chickens,even up to 25%substitution levels,for up to 33 d without adversely impacting the overall growth performance of male broiler chickens raised under commercial conditions.Further studies are essential to validate the hematological trait findings.
基金funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology(FCT)sup-ported by the projects UIDB/00772/2020(https://doi.org/10.54499/UIDB/00772/2020)。
文摘Emerging infectious diseases are a major threat to biodiversity and an important public health issue.Flaviviruses are the cause of several emerging vector-borne zoonotic arboviruses whose distribution is currently increasing in Europe.The evidence that West Nile virus(WNV)circulates in resident and migratory species has implications for both animal and public health and should therefore be studied in depth.USUTU(USUV),Bagaza(BAGV)and tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV)are other viruses that are beginning to spread more widely.An integrated surveillance program,namely in birds,is essential for reducing the risk of infection in human populations within the One Health principles.In the present study,wild birds admitted to wildlife rehabilitation centers in Portugal were sampled.Two hundred eight blood samples were assayed serologically for antibodies to flaviviruses by using a commercial ELISA kit.An over-all seroprevalence of 19.6%(95%confidence interval[CI]:13.7-26.7%)was observed.Antibodies against flaviviruses were detected in 13(35.1%)different species of wild birds.Accipitriformes(26.7%;95%CI:18.5-36.2%)and Strigi-formes(26.7%;95%CI:14.6-42.0%)were the orders with the highest seroprevalence rates recorded.There were no statistically significant differences(p=0.725)between the geographical regions(NUTSⅡ)studied,but a statistically significant difference(p=0.017)was found between sex(male:34.4%;female:4.8%).A higher seroprevalence was detected in adults(32.1%)than in juvenile birds(9.3%)(p=0.014),and age was considered a risk factor for flavivirus infection in wild birds(odds ratio 1.4;95%CI:0.5-4.0).More epidemiological studies are needed in Portugal since the actual spread of the genus Flavivirus throughout the country is unknown.
基金financially supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF-2021R1A5A1033157 for SRC program:382 Comparative medicine Disease Research Center,NRF-2021R1F1A105195313)the Research Institute of Veterinary Science,the BK21 Four for Future Veterinary Medicine Leading Education and Research Center,and a Seoul National University(SNU)grant(#550e2020005)。
文摘Background Genome editing has been considered as powerful tool in agricultural fields.However,genome editing progress in cattle has not been fast as in other mammal species,for some disadvantages including long gestational periods,single pregnancy,and high raising cost.Furthermore,technically demanding methods such as microinjection and somatic cell nuclear transfer(SCNT)are needed for gene editing in cattle.In this point of view,electroporation in embryos has been risen as an alternative.Results First,editing efficiency of our electroporation methods were tested for embryos.Presence of mutation on embryo was confirmed by T7E1 assay.With first combination,mutation rates for MSTN and PRNP were 57.6%±13.7%and 54.6%±13.5%,respectively.In case of MSTN/BLG,mutation rates were 83.9%±23.6%for MSTN,84.5%±18.0%for BLG.Afterwards,the double-KO embryos were transferred to surrogates and mutation rate was identified in resultant calves by targeted deep sequencing.Thirteen recipients were transferred for MSTN/PRNP,4 calves were delivered,and one calf underwent an induction for double KO.Ten surrogates were given double-KO embryos for MSTN/BLG,and four of the six calves that were born had mutations in both genes.Conclusions These data demonstrated that production of genome edited cattle via electroporation of RNP could be effectively applied.Finally,MSTN and PRNP from beef cattle and MSTN and BLG from dairy cattle have been born and they will be valuable resources for future precision breeding.
文摘Misuse, overuse, and missed prescription of antimicrobials are the driving factors to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) leading to a globally increasing public health concern. This study was conducted to assess the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of village animal health workers (VAHWs) and veterinary drug retailers (VDRs) on antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The sample size was calculated following [1]. KAP data were scored and categorized following Bloom’s cut-off score. A total of 108 study populations (66 VAHWs and 42 VDRs) were purposively surveyed using a validated KAP questionnaire in 5 provinces across Cambodia. This study found that VAHWs and VDRs have moderate levels of knowledge (61% to 65%) and good attitudes towards AMU (83% to 84%) but employed moderate practices (59% to 74%) on AMU. VAHWs had moderate (66%);while DVRs had poor knowledge (58%) on AMR. Thus, regular awareness education specifically on proper use, prudent use, and stewardships on AMU and AMR in the form of refresher training or awareness events must be provided to VAHWs and VDRs to avoid inappropriate use of antimicrobials and spreading the AMR knowledge across Cambodia.
基金supported by the PRIMA programme under grant agreement No 2015,project SUSTAvian FEEDsupported by the European Unionthe visit by Achille Schiavone(22216/IV/23-Poultry MED project)funded by the Fundación Séneca-Agencia de Ciencia y Tecnología de la Región de Murcia in connection with the“Jiménez De La Espada”Regional Programme for Mobility,Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange。
文摘Background The provision of environmental enrichments to Muscovy ducks could reduce the expression of the aggressive behaviors.The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of black soldier fly(BSF)and yellow mealworm(YM)live larva provision on Muscovy duck performance,excreta corticosterone metabolites(ECM),behavior,and blood parameters.Methods A total of 1263-day-old female Muscovy ducklings were allotted to 18 pens(6 replicates/treatment,7 birds/pen)and assigned to 3 experimental treatments:a control group fed commercial feed,and two experimental treatments fed commercial feed plus the 5%(based on the expected daily feed intake,as fed basis)of BSF and YM live larvae(BSF and YM groups,respectively).A two-phase feeding program was applied:starter(from 3 to 31 days of age)and grower-finisher(from 32 to 55 days of age).The live weight,average daily gain,average daily feed intake,and feed conversion ratio were calculated.Larva consumption times were collected,and video recordings were performed during 3 periods(P)each day:the hour before(P1),during(P2),and after(P3)the larva administration.ECM were evaluated at 3,31,and 55-day-old.Finally,the total red and white blood cell counts,serum proteins,lipids,and liver and renal function serum enzymes were evaluated on 12 birds/treatment.Results The experimental treatment did not affect the growth performance of the birds(P>0.05).Larva consumption times were always similar between the two insect species,except at 14–18 days of age,were BSF larvae were consumed faster than YM larvae(P<0.001).The birds showed less walking activity during P2,and preening behavior increased in YM birds during P3.The C birds increased the attack behavior over the weeks(P<0.05).During weeks 1–3 the YM group reduced the attack frequency(P1>P3;P<0.05).Finally,the provision of live BSF and YM larvae significantly reduced the ECM at 55 days of age and the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio(P<0.05).Conclusions Live BSF and YM larva supplementation in Muscovy duck improves duck welfare,without impairing birds'growth performance.
文摘Manual investigation of chest radiography(CXR)images by physicians is crucial for effective decision-making in COVID-19 diagnosis.However,the high demand during the pandemic necessitates auxiliary help through image analysis and machine learning techniques.This study presents a multi-threshold-based segmentation technique to probe high pixel intensity regions in CXR images of various pathologies,including normal cases.Texture information is extracted using gray co-occurrence matrix(GLCM)-based features,while vessel-like features are obtained using Frangi,Sato,and Meijering filters.Machine learning models employing Decision Tree(DT)and RandomForest(RF)approaches are designed to categorize CXR images into common lung infections,lung opacity(LO),COVID-19,and viral pneumonia(VP).The results demonstrate that the fusion of texture and vesselbased features provides an effective ML model for aiding diagnosis.The ML model validation using performance measures,including an accuracy of approximately 91.8%with an RF-based classifier,supports the usefulness of the feature set and classifier model in categorizing the four different pathologies.Furthermore,the study investigates the importance of the devised features in identifying the underlying pathology and incorporates histogrambased analysis.This analysis reveals varying natural pixel distributions in CXR images belonging to the normal,COVID-19,LO,and VP groups,motivating the incorporation of additional features such as mean,standard deviation,skewness,and percentile based on the filtered images.Notably,the study achieves a considerable improvement in categorizing COVID-19 from LO,with a true positive rate of 97%,further substantiating the effectiveness of the methodology implemented.
基金supported by the National Centre for the Replacement Refinement & Reduction of Animals in Research Crack It solution “Neuroinflammation and nociception in a dish”(https://nc3rs.org.uk/crackit/news/new-solutionneuroinflammation-and-nociception-dish) fund(to AM)。
文摘Mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)are multipotent adult stem cells of mesodermal origin that can be isolated from various tissues,including bone marrow,tooth pulp,adipose tissue,and umbilical cord.MSCs have gained significant attention in regenerative medicine due to their ability to modulate the immune system and favor tissue repair.MSCs enrich the medium in which they are cultivated with a broad range of bioactive molecules,including growth factors,cytokines,chemokines,enzymes,nucleic acids,and extracellular vesicles that collectively compose the MSC secretome.An increasing number of pre-clinical studies suggest that delivering in vivo an MSC-conditioned medium(i.e.,the medium collected from MSC cultures after at least 3 days of exposure)exerts neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in a variety of neurological conditions.
基金supported by Progetto Trapezio,Compagnia di San Paolo(67935-2021.2174)to LB,Fondazione CRT(Cassa di Risparmio di Torino,RF=2022.0618)to LB。
文摘Brain plasticity-A universal tool with many variations:The study of brain plasticity has been gaining interest since almost a century and has now reached a huge amount of information(>80,000 results in PubMed).Overall,different types of plasticity,including stem cell-driven genesis of new neurons(adult neurogenesis),cells in arrested maturation(dormant neurons),neuro-glial and synaptic plasticity,can coexist and contribute to grant plastic changes in the brain,from a cellular to system level(Benedetti and Couillard-Despres,2022;Bonfanti et al.,2023).
基金supported by Progetto Trapezio,Compagnia di San Paolo(67935-2021.2174),to LBFondazione CRT(Cassa di Risparmio di Torino,RF=2022.0618),to LBPRIN2022(grant 2022LB4X3N),to LB。
文摘The capacity of the central nervous system for structural plasticity and regeneration is commonly believed to show a decreasing progression from“small and simple”brains to the larger,more complex brains of mammals.However,recent findings revealed that some forms of neural plasticity can show a reverse trend.Although plasticity is a well-preserved,transversal feature across the animal world,a variety of cell populations and mechanisms seem to have evolved to enable structural modifications to take place in widely different brains,likely as adaptations to selective pressures.Increasing evidence now indicates that a trade-off has occurred between regenerative(mostly stem cell–driven)plasticity and developmental(mostly juvenile)remodeling,with the latter primarily aimed not at brain repair but rather at“sculpting”the neural circuits based on experience.In particular,an evolutionary trade-off has occurred between neurogenic processes intended to support the possibility of recruiting new neurons throughout life and the different ways of obtaining new neurons,and between the different brain locations in which plasticity occurs.This review first briefly surveys the different types of plasticity and the complexity of their possible outcomes and then focuses on recent findings showing that the mammalian brain has a stem cell–independent integration of new neurons into pre-existing(mature)neural circuits.This process is still largely unknown but involves neuronal cells that have been blocked in arrested maturation since their embryonic origin(also termed“immature”or“dormant”neurons).These cells can then restart maturation throughout the animal's lifespan to become functional neurons in brain regions,such as the cerebral cortex and amygdala,that are relevant to high-order cognition and emotions.Unlike stem cell–driven postnatal/adult neurogenesis,which significantly decreases from small-brained,short-living species to large-brained ones,immature neurons are particularly abundant in large-brained,long-living mammals,including humans.The immature neural cell populations hosted in these complex brains are an interesting example of an“enlarged road”in the phylogenetic trend of plastic potential decreases commonly observed in the animal world.The topic of dormant neurons that covary with brain size and gyrencephaly represents a prospective turning point in the field of neuroplasticity,with important translational outcomes.These cells can represent a reservoir of undifferentiated neurons,potentially granting plasticity within the high-order circuits subserving the most sophisticated cognitive skills that are important in the growing brains of young,healthy individuals and are frequently affected by debilitating neurodevelopmental and degenerative disorders.
文摘The increasing interest in the study of spontaneous(SY)and contagious yawning(CY)was so far focused on several taxa,especially primates.Here,we focused on SY and CY in horses,a suitable species due to their complex social dynamics that has been largely overlooked in research on these phenomena.By analyzing videos of 48 horses on pasture,we identified 2 yawning morphologies:Covered(Y_(CT))and Uncovered Teeth(Y_(UCT)).Using EquiFACS,we quantitatively demonstrated that Y_(CT) and Y_(UCT) differ in terms of muscle recruitment.Moreover,we provide the first evidence for the presence of CY by comparing 2 different conditions:chewing-yawn-chewing versus chewing-chewing-chewing.Supporting the Social Modulation hypothesis,in our mares,CY was more prominent among subjects sharing good relationships.Moreover,subjects responded more rapidly to kin compared with non-kin and kin frequently grooming each other responded even more rapidly to each other yawns.The high familiar yawn sensitivity can provide selective advantages increasing behavioral synchronization and group cohesion.
基金funded by the HiGa project,supported within the Green Era Hub call by the Green Development and Demonstration Programme,GUDP,under the Ministry of Food,Agriculture and Fisheries of Denmark,the Flanders Innovation&Entrepreneurship(VLAIO)the Italian Ministry of Agriculture,Food Sovereignty and Forests(CUP:D23 C23000570005).
文摘Background Scant information is currently available on the use of insect oils in ruminant diets.Insect oils could be used as alternatives to certain conventional plant lipid sources that are considered no longer sustainable.This trial aims at evaluating the effects of the dietary inclusion of Hermetia illucens oil(HIO)vs.hydrogenated palm fat(HPF)on digestive parameters,oxidative stress,and milk production performance of dairy cows.Results Twenty-six Valdostana Red Pied cows were randomly divided into two groups and fed with hay ad libitum and a concentrate containing 3%(as fed)of either HPF or HIO.The trial lasted 50 d,including two weeks of diet adaptation.Individual feed intake and milk yield were monitored three and four times a week,respectively.Fecal samples were collected at the end(d 50)of the trial to determine total-tract nutrients apparent digestibility.Individual blood samples were collected to evaluate blood plasma metabolites(d 0 and d 50)and oxidative stress parameters(d 0,d 26 and d 50).Milk samples were collected at d 0,d 14,d 26,d 38 and d 50 for chemical composition analysis.Feed efficiency was estimated through feed conversion ratio and residual feed intake(RFI).Data were analyzed by SAS software using a mixed model.The diet had no effect on nutrients intake and apparent total-tract digestibility.However,the dietary inclusion of HIO led to higher milk production(+0.82 kg/cow/d;P<0.05)and slightly lower RFI(−0.008;P<0.001)when compared to the HPF diet.Milk composition and the nutritional metabolic status of the cows remained unaffected by diet.Serum antioxidant capacity was comparable between the two groups,while lower derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolite concentrations were observed in the HIO-fed cows when compared to the HPF-fed ones(−37.13 Carratelli Units;P<0.001).Conclusions The dietary inclusion of HIO instead of HPF did not negatively affect feed palatability and total-tract apparent digestibility of nutrients in dairy cows.Furthermore,it increased feed efficiency by supporting a higher milk production together with an improved antioxidant status.The results suggest that HIO could be an eligible option as an innovative energy source for dairy cows.
基金supported by a Postgraduate Study Support Grant from the Faculty of Medicine,Khon Kaen University.
文摘Zoonotic hookworm infections remain a significant public health problem,causing nearly 500 million cases globally and approximately four million disability-adjusted life years lost annually.More than one-fifth of these cases are attributed to Ancylostoma ceylanicum,an emerging zoonotic health issue in the Asia-Pacific region.This review presents key research gaps regarding the epidemiology,diagnosis,control,prevention and elimination of A.ceylanicum and other canine zoonotic hookworms as neglected health threats.A.ceylanicum is the second most prevalent human hookworm in the region;it is the most common hookworm among dogs and cats-reservoirs of zoonotic infections.Previous population genetic and phylogenetic analyses revealed that A.ceylanicum has three possible transmission dynamics:zoonotic,animal-only,and human-only pathways.The actual burden of zoonotic ancylostomiasis in most endemic countries remains unknown due to the use of parasitological techniques(e.g.,Kato-Katz thick smear and floatation techniques)that have reduced diagnostic performance and do not allow accurate species identification in helminth surveys.The emergence of benzimidazole resistance in soil-transmitted helminths(STHs),including hookworms,is a concern due to the protracted implementation of mass drug administration(MDA).Resistance is conferred by single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)that occur in theβ-tubulin isotype 1 gene.These mutations have been reported in drug-resistant A.caninum but have not been found in A.ceylanicum in the field.A.ceylanicum remains understudied in the Asia-Pacific region.The zoonotic nature of the parasite warrants investigation of its occurrence in human and animal reservoir hosts to understand the dynamics of zoonotic transmission in different endemic foci.The detection of benzimidazole resistance-associated SNPs in zoonotic hookworms from Asia-Pacific countries has yet to be thoroughly explored.Considering the high level of hookworm endemicity in the region,the circulation of resistant isolates between humans and animals potentially presents a significant One Health threat that can undermine current MDA and proposed animal deworming-based control efforts.
基金supported by the University of Turin(Ex 60% 2014–2015)
文摘Background: The study aimed to determine the apparent total tract digestibility coefficients(ATTDC) of nutrients, the apparent metabolizable energy(AME and AMEn) and the amino acid(AA) apparent ileal digestibility coefficients(AIDC)of a partially defatted(BSFp) and a highly defatted(BSFh) black soldier fly larvae meal. The experimental diets were: a basal diet and two diets prepared by substituting 250 g/kg(w/w) of the basal diet with BSFp or BSFh, respectively.Results: Significant differences were found between BSFp and BSFh meals for ATTDC of the nutrients: BSFp resulted more digestible than BSFh, except for ATTDC of CP which did not differed between meals, while a statistical trend was observed for ATTDC of DM and EE. The AME and AMEn values were significantly(P < 0.05) different between the two BSF meals, with higher levels for BSFp(16.25 and 14.87 MJ/kg DM, respectively). The AIDC of the AA in BSFp ranged from 0.44 to 0.92, while in BSFh they ranged from 0.45 to 0.99. No significant differences were observed for the AA digestibility(0.77 and 0.80 for BSFp and BSFh, respectively), except for glutamic acid, proline and serine that were more digestible in the BSFh meal(P < 0.05).Conclusions: Defatted BSF meals can be considered as an excellent source of AME and digestible AA for broilers with a better efficient nutrient digestion. These considerations suggested the effective utilization of defatted BSF larvae meal in poultry feed formulation.
基金Financial support for this work was provided by the University of Turin(ex 60%)grant(Es.fin.2015–2016)
文摘Background: Two trials were performed to evaluate a partially defatted Hermetia illucens(HI) larvae meal as potential feed ingredient in rainbow trout(Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum) diets. In the first trial, 360 trout(178.9 ± 9.8 g of mean initial body weight) were randomly divided into three experimental groups(4 tanks/treatment, 30 fish/tank). The fish were fed for 78 days with isonitrogenous, isolipidic and isoenergetic diets containing increasing levels of HI, on as fed basis: 0%(HI0, control diet), 25%(HI25) and 50%(HI50) of fish meal substitution, corresponding to dietary inclusion levels of 0, 20% and 40%. In the second trial, 36 trout(4 tanks/treatment, 3 fish/tank) were used to evaluate the in vivo apparent digestibility coefficients(ADC) of the same diets used in the first trial.Results: Survival, growth performance, condition factor, somatic indexes, and dorsal fillet physical quality parameters were not affected by diet. The highest dietary inclusion of HI larvae meal increased dry matter and ether extract contents of trout dorsal fillet. The use of HI larvae meal induced a decrease of valuable polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFA) even if differences were only reported at the highest level of HI inclusion. The insect meal worsened the lipids health indexes of the same muscle. Dietary inclusion of insect meal did not alter the villus height of the fish. No differences were found among treatments in relation to ADC of ether extract and gross energy, while ADC of dry matter and crude protein were higher in HI25 if compared to HI50.Conclusions: The obtained results showed that a partially defatted HI larvae meal can be used as feed ingredient in trout diets up to 40% of inclusion level without impacting survival, growth performance, condition factor, somatic indexes, dorsal fillet physical quality parameters, and intestinal morphology of the fish. However, further investigations on specific feeding strategies and diet formulations are needed to limit the observed negative effects of the insect meal on the FA composition of dorsal muscle.
基金Financial support for this work was provided by Martini Group(Premio Iller Campani)a University of Turin(ex 60%)grant(Es.fin.2015–2016-2017)
文摘Background:The aim of this trial was to investigate the effects of different inclusion levels of a partially defatted black soldier fly (BSF,Hermetia illucens L.) larva meal on the growth performance,nutrient digestibility,blood profile,gut morphology and histological features of piglets.A total of 48 newly weaned piglets were individually weighed (initial body weight (IBW):6.1 ± 0.16 kg) and randomly allocated to 3 dietary treatments (4 boxes as replicates/treatment and 4 animals/box).BSF larva meal was included at increasing levels (0% [BSF0],5% [BSFS] and 10% [BSF10]) in isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets formulated for two feeding phases:Ⅰ (from d 1 to d 23) and Ⅱ (from d 24 to d 61).The weight gain (WG),average daily gain (ADG),average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were calculated for each feeding phase and for the whole trial.The haematochemical parameters and nutrient digestibility of the piglets were also evaluated.A total of 3 piglets per box were slaughtered on d 61 and the slaughtered piglets were submitted to morphometric investigations and histopathological examinations.Results:No overall significant differences were observed for growth performance (P > 0.05),except for the ADFI of phase Ⅱ,which showed a linear response to increasing BSF meal levels (P < 0.05,maximum for the BSF10 group).Dietary BSF meal inclusion did not significantly influence the blood profile,except as far as monocytes and neutrophils are concerned,and these showed a linear and quadratic response,respectively,to increasing BSF meal levels (P < 0.05,maximum for the BSF10 and BSF5 groups,respectively).On the other hand,the nutrient digestibility,gut morphology and histological features were not affected by dietary BSF meal inclusion (P > 0.05).Conclusions:The obtained results show that a partially defatted BSF larva meal can be used as a feed ingredient in diets for weaned piglets without negatively affecting their growth performance,nutrient digestibility,blood profile,gut morphology or histological features.
基金a European Joint Doctorate Degree programme in Molecular Animal Nutrition(MANNA)between University of Milan(Italy)and University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Kosice(Slovakia)funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 programme under the Marie Slodowska-Curie Grant agreement No 765423.
文摘The gastrointestinal tract of livestock and poultry is prone to challenge by feedborne antigens,pathogens,and other stress factors in the farm environment.Excessive physiological inflammation and oxidative stress that arises firstly disrupts the intestinal epithelial barrier followed by other components of the gastrointestinal tract.In the present review,the interrelationship between intestinal barrier inflammation and oxidative stress that contributes to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease was described.Further,the role of naturally existing immunomodulatory nutrients such as the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids,citrus pectin,and milk-derived exosomes in preventing intestinal barrier inflammation was discussed.Based on the existing evidence,the possible molecular mechanism of these bioactive nutrients in the intestinal barrier was outlined for application in animal diets.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 41071355, 41171394)the National International Cooperation Program of China (No. 2012DFA91150)+1 种基金supported by the Einstein Professorship Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciencesthe Canada Research Chair Program
文摘The single and combinational effects of cadmium （Cd） and fluoranthene （FLT） on germination, growth and photosynthesis of soybean seedlings were investigated. Exposure to 5, 10, or 15 mg Cd/L or 1, 5, or 10 mg FLT/L individually or in combination significantly decreased germination vigor （3 days） and final germination rate of soybean seeds, except at 1 and 5 mg FLT/L. The results of two-way ANOVA analysis and the Bliss independence model showed that at lower concentrations of FLT （1 mg/L）, the interaction between Cd and FLT on germination was antagonistic, whereas the interaction was synergistic when the concentration of FLT was 5 or 10 mg/L and the concentration of Cd was 15 mg/L. Growth, expressed as dry weight, length of shoot and root, leaf area, and photosynthesis, expressed as net photosynthetic rate, intercellular CO2 concentration, chlorophyll contents and fluorescence of soybean seedlings were also reduced by exposure to 5 or 10 mg Cd/L or 1 or 5 mg FLT/L, singly or jointly. Significant antagonistic effects of exposure to 5 or 10 mg Cd/L or 1 or 5 mg FLT/L on shoot growth and photosynthesis were observed, whereas synergy and antagonism of Cd and FLT were both observed for root growth.
基金provided by Martini Group (Premio Iller Campani)by the University of Turin (ex 60%) grant (Es. fin. 2015–2016–2017)。
文摘Background: The constant interaction between diet and intestinal barrier has a crucial role in determining gut health in pigs. Hermetia illucens(HI) meal(that represents a promising, alternative feed ingredient for production animals) has recently been demonstrated to influence colonic microbiota, bacterial metabolite profile and mucosal immune status of pigs, but no data about modulation of gut mucin dynamics are currently available. The present study evaluated the effects of dietary HI meal inclusion on the small intestinal mucin composition of piglets, as well as providing insights into the cecal microbiota and the mucosal infiltration with immune cells.Results: A total of 48 weaned piglets were randomly allotted to 3 dietary treatments(control diet [C] and 5% or10% HI meal inclusion [HI5 and HI10], with 4 replicate boxes/treatment and 4 animals/box) and slaughtered after61 days of trial(3 animals/box, 12 piglets/diet). The cecal microbiota assessment by 16 S r RNA amplicon based sequencing showed higher beta diversity in the piglets fed the HI-based diets than the C(P < 0.001). Furthermore,the HI-fed animals showed increased abundance of Blautia, Chlamydia, Coprococcus, Eubacterium, Prevotella,Roseburia, unclassified members of Ruminococcaceae, Ruminococcus and Staphylococcus when compared to the C group(FDR < 0.05). The gut of the piglets fed the HI-based diets showed greater neutral mucin percentage than the C(P < 0.05), with the intestinal neutral mucins of the HI-fed animals being also higher than the sialomucins and the sulfomucins found in the gut of the C group(P < 0.05). Furthermore, the piglets fed the HI-based diets displayed lower histological scores in the jejunum than the other gut segments(ileum [HI5] or ileum and duodenum [HI10], P < 0.05).Conclusions: Dietary HI meal utilization positively influenced the cecal microbiota and the small intestinal mucin dynamics of the piglets in terms of selection of potentially beneficial bacteria and preservation of mature mucin secretory architecture, without determining the development of gut inflammation. These findings further confirm the suitability of including insect meal in swine diets.
