Regulatory effect of Balanites aegyptiaca ethanol extract on oxidant/antioxidant status, inflammatory cytokines, and cell apoptosis gene expression in goat abomasum experimentally infected with Haemonchus Contortus.

This experiment aimed to assess the regulatory effects of treatment with Balanites aegyptiaca fruit ethanol extract (BA-EE) on oxidant/antioxidant status, anti-inflammatory cytokines, and cell apoptosis gene expression in the abomasum of Haemonchus contortus-infected goats. Twenty goat kids were assigned randomly to four equal groups: (G1) infected-untreated, (G2) uninfected-BA-EE-treated, (G3) infected-albendazole-treated, (G4) infected-BA-EE-treated. Each goat in (G1), (G3), and (G4) was orally infected with 10,000 infective third-stage larvae. In the fifth week postinfection, single doses of albendazole (5 mg/kg.BW) and BA-EE (9 g/kg.BW) were given orally. In the ninth week postinfection, the animals were slaughtered to obtain abomasum specimens. The following oxidant/antioxidant markers were determined: malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT). The mRNA gene expression of cytokines (IL-3, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α) and cell apoptosis markers (Bax, Bcl-2) were estimated. (G1) showed significantly reduced GSH content and GST and SOD activities but a markedly increased MDA level. (G3) and (G4) revealed a markedly lower MDA level with pronouncedly elevated GSH, SOD, and GST levels. The antioxidant properties of BA-EE were superior to those of albendazole. The mRNA gene expressions of IL-3, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and Bax-2 were upregulated in (G1) but downregulated in (G3) and (G4). Bcl-2 and Bcl-2/Bax ratio expression followed a reverse course in the infected and both treated groups. We conclude that BA-EE treatment has a protective role in the abomasum of H. contortus-infected goats. This could be attributed to its antioxidant properties and ability to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and cell apoptosis.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles-doped curcumin-assisted recovery of rheumatoid arthritis and antioxidant status in experimental rabbits.

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation and synovial joint destruction. Aims: The current study investigated the possible beneficial effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles doped curcumin (ZnONPs-DC) on the recovery of RA and antioxidant status of experimental rabbits. Methods: RA was induced in experimental rabbits by injecting complete Freund's adjuvant and collagen type-II emulsion (100 µL/kg body weight) in the base of their tail. Arthritic rabbits were orally treated with ZnONPs, curcumin, and ZnONPs-DC(250 µL/kg bodyweight). Serumsamples fromthe control and study groupswere collected before and afterRAinduction and after treatment. The sera were subjected to analysis of biological markers of RA and antioxidant status. Results: The complete Freund's adjuvant and collagen type II treatment resulted in positive rheumatoid factor and C-reactive protein elevated oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant potential. Each treatment showed the absence of rheumatoid factor and C-reactive protein decreased oxidative stress and improved antioxidant potential compared to the control. However, ZnONPs-DC treatment showed a comparatively higher decline in serum malondialdehyde MDA content and an elevation in the antioxidant activity of RA animals. Conclusions: In conclusion, using zinc oxide nanoparticles-doped curcumin may be an effective anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory drug in controlling RA.

Total antioxidant status levels in malaria: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Malaria, a severe health threat, significantly affects total antioxidant status (TAS) levels, leading to considerable oxidative stress. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to delineate differences in TAS levels between malaria patients and healthy controls, and assess correlations between disease severity and parasite density. METHODS: The systematic review was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under registration number CRD42023448761. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases such as Embase, MEDLINE, Journals@Ovid, PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and Google Scholar to identify studies reporting data on TAS levels in malaria patients. Data from the included studies were analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Differences in TAS levels between malaria patients and controls were pooled using a random effects model, with Hedges' g as the effect size measure. RESULTS: Of 1796 identified records, 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. The qualitative synthesis of these studies revealed a marked decrease in TAS levels in patients with malaria compared to non-malaria cases. The meta-analysis results showed a significant decrease in TAS levels in patients with malaria compared to non-malaria cases (P < 0.01, Hedges' g: - 2.75, 95% CI - 3.72 to -1.78, I2: 98.16%, 13 studies), suggesting elevated oxidative stress in these patients. Subgroup analyses revealed that TAS level variations were significantly influenced by geographical region, age group, Plasmodium species, and method for measuring TAS. Notably, TAS levels were significantly lower in severe malaria cases and those with high parasite density, indicating a potential relationship between oxidative stress and disease severity. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the potential utility of TAS as a biomarker for disease risk and severity in malaria. The significant decrease in TAS levels in malaria patients compared to controls implies increased oxidative stress. Further well-designed, large-scale studies are warranted to validate these findings and elucidate the intricate mechanisms linking TAS and malaria.

Changes in the Morphology and Antioxidant Status of European Red Deer Sperm Stored in the Epididymides and in a Liquid State.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the motility, morphology, and antioxidant status of European red deer sperm stored in a liquid state (variant I) and in the epididymides (variant II). Spermatozoa were harvested post-mortem from the cauda epididymis. Sperm samples in both variants were stored for up to six days (D6) at 5 °C. Spermatozoa were assessed for motility, viability, morphology, activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, SOD; glutathione peroxidase, GPx; catalase, CAT), and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde, MDA, content). Sperm samples were analyzed on storage days 0, 2, 4, and 6 (D0-D6). Storage time and storage method significantly (p ≤ 0.05) influenced the examined variables. On D2, a decrease in motility and acrosomal integrity was observed in both storage variants, whereas a decrease in viability and an increase in MDA content were noted in spermatozoa stored in the epididymides. On D4, higher values of SOD and GPx activity and MDA content were noted in variant I than in variant II. Catalase activity was very low. GPx is the key enzyme that participates in the reduction of hydrogen peroxide in sperm cells. Spermatozoa stored in a liquid state were characterized by higher motility and viability, improved morphology and antioxidant status than those stored in the epididymides; therefore, liquid storage is more recommended for short-term preservation of epididymal spermatozoa.

Bolstering Buck Fertility: The Impact of Asparagus racemosus Aqueous Extract on Semen Cryopreservation and Antioxidant Defense System.

Importance of Study: Semen cryopreservation results in sperm damage due to lipid peroxidation or oxidative stress, leading to a decrease in conception rate. The sperm damage during cryopreservation can be minimized with the use of suitable antioxidant supplements in semen diluent. Some herbs have potent antioxidant potential and can be used in semen diluent to protect the spermatozoa. Objective: Hence, the investigation was planned to evaluate the effect of Asparagus racemosus (A. racemosus) aqueous extract on buck semen quality during cryopreservation. Methodology: In the current study, semen was collected from eight Sirohi bucks, and from each buck, 8 ejaculates were collected. Good-quality semen samples were pooled during each collection. Pooled semen samples were then divided into four equal parts and diluted in TRIS buffer containing different concentrations of A. racemosus aqueous extract (different groups, i.e., G I -5 mg, G II -2.5 mg, G III -1.25 mg, and G IV -0 mg of A. racemosus aqueous extract in 1 mL TRIS buffer). All the diluted semen samples were kept at equilibration temperature (5°C) for 2 hours and then cryopreserved by the manual method. Semen samples were evaluated for various sperm characteristics and antioxidant status before and after cryopreservation. Results: Asparagus racemosus aqueous extract showed significant (p < 0.05) enhancement of sperm viability, sperm motility, acrosomal integrity, and plasma membrane integrity, whereas it reduced sperm abnormality. Furthermore, in the experimental groups, the antioxidant gene expression was found to be increased compared to that of the treatment group. G III (p < 0.05) showed significantly better results in terms of sperm viability, sperm motility, acrosomal integrity, and plasma membrane integrity. Conclusion: Asparagus racemosus aqueous extract has the antioxidant potential to protect buck spermatozoa during semen cryopreservation.

Impact of in ovo feeding of grape pomace extract on the growth performance, antioxidant status, and immune response of hatched broilers.

Delivering natural antioxidants via in ovo feeding holds promise for enhancing the antioxidant status and performance of chickens. Therefore, The objective of this study was to evaluate the impacts of in ovo feeding during early embryonic development using grape pomace extract as a natural antioxidant on hatchability, productive performance, immune response, and antioxidant status in broilers. A total of 900 fertile broiler eggs from the Arbor Acres strain were utilized. Each egg was individually weighed, with egg weights ranging from 61.88 ± 3 g. On the 17.5th d of incubation (DOI), the fertile eggs were divided into 6 groups. The first treatment group was untreated and designated as the control (C). The second group was the sham group (Sh), receiving a simulated injection. The third group, designated as the vehicle group (V), was injected with 100 µl of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The fourth group received an injection of 100 µL of grape pomace dissolved in DMSO at a concentration of 2 mg (T2). Similarly, the fifth and sixth groups were injected with 100 µL of grape pomace dissolved in DMSO at concentrations of 4 mg and 6 mg, (T4), (T6) respectively. Subsequently, all groups were raised under uniform conditions in terms of management, environment, and nutrition till 5 wk of age. The grape pomace extract (GPE), obtained is rich in total phenolic content (16.07 mg/g), total flavonoid content (7.42 mg/g), and total anthocyanin (8.37 mg/g). Grape pomace extract has exhibited significant antioxidant properties as evidenced by its effectiveness in DPPH scavenging and reducing power assays. Significant improvements in body weight at hatch were observed with in ovo feeding of grape pomace extract, particularly at the 4 mg level, surpassing the effectiveness of the 2 mg and 6 mg grape pomace levels, and this enhancement in body weight continued until the age of 5 wk. GPE injection also led to a significant reduction in cholesterol levels, with the lowest levels recorded for the T4 group. Plasma total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) levels were significantly elevated in groups treated with T4, T6, and T2 compared to the control group. Conversely, the control group showed a significant increase (P < 0.01) in plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The immune response of hatched chicks from grape pomace extract-injected groups, especially the T4 group, exhibited improvement through increased IgM and IgG. These findings demonstrate that in ovo feeding of GPE, particularly at a dosage of 4 mg, enhances growth performance, immune response, and antioxidant status in hatched chicks. Thus, administering natural antioxidants, such as grape pomace extract, to developing broiler embryos via in ovo feeding could serve as a valuable strategy for enhancing the subsequent post-hatch productive performance, as well as bolstering the antioxidant and immunological status of broiler chicks.

Efficacy of supplementing Aspergillus awamori in enhancing growth performance, gut microbiota, digestibility, immunity, and antioxidant activity of heat-stressed broiler chickens fed diets containing olive pulp.

BACKGROUND: Gut microbes play a significant role in digestion, developing immunity, and intestinal health. Therefore, direct-fed microbials are used to modify gut microbiota, maintain a healthy digestive system, enhance immunity, and promote the broilers' performance. In addition, it has a role in improving the utilization of unconventional feed ingredients (olive pulp, OP). This study provides the potential role of Aspergillus awamori in enhancing gut microbial content, nutrient utilization, growth performance, and antioxidative status in heat-stressed broiler chickens fed diets containing olive pulp. METHODS: Three hundred chicks (Ross 308; one day old) were divided into four treatment groups (75 chick/ group) randomly, as follows; CON: chicks fed a basal diet based on corn and soybean meal, OP10: chicks fed a diet containing 10% OP, OA1: chicks fed a diet containing OP with A. awamori at 100 mg per kg, OA2: chicks fed a diet containing OP with A. awamori at 200 mg per kg. RESULTS: Adding A. awamori to the broiler diet that contains OP had a positive effect on productive performance via enhancing nutrition digestibility, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and carcass characteristics. A. awamori supplementation had a positive impact on immune responses by increasing serum immunoglobulin G and the relative weight of bursa of Fabricius (P < 0.05) compared to the other groups. Chickens fed A. awamori showed a noticeable improvement in the oxidative status through the increase in the level of serum superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, and the decrease in the level of malondialdehyde. Feeding A. awamori also modified the intestinal microbial content by increasing the population of Lactobacillus (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our study indicated that adding 200 mg A. awamori reduced the negative effect of heat stress by modifying the microbial content of the intestine, immune response, and enhancing feed utilization, thus improving broiler performance, as well as, improving the nutritional value of the olive pulp. Therefore, adding A. awamori to the OP diet can be effectively used in heat-stressed broiler diets.

Rosemary leaf powder improves egg quality, antioxidant status, gut barrier function, and cecal microbiota and metabolites of late-phase laying hens.

This study sought to determine the effects of rosemary leaf powder (RP) on laying performance, egg quality, serum indices, gut barrier function, and cecal microbiota and metabolites of late-phase laying hens. A total of 84 "Jing Tint 6" laying hens at 65-week old were randomly divided into 2 groups and fed either a basal diet (CON) or a basal diet supplemented with 0.3% RP. Our study revealed that RP improved the Haugh unit and decreased yolk n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio of laying hens, increased serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), jejunal activities of SOD and catalase (CAT), and jejunal zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) expression, as well as decreased serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) level and jejunal TNF-α mRNA expression. Rosemary leaf powder markedly enhanced (P < 0.05) cecal abundances of Rikenellaceae, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, and Turicibacter, tended to promote (P = 0.076) butyrate concentration, and reduced (P < 0.05) cecal abundances of Erysipelatoclostridiaceae, Sutterellaceae, Fusobacteriaceae, Campylobacteraceae, Sutterella, Campylobacter, and Fusobacterium, which were closely linked with Haugh unit, yolk n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio, serum SOD and TNF-α. In addition, RP altered the metabolic functions of cecal microbiota and enhanced the abundances of butyrate-synthesizing enzymes, including lysine 2,3-aminomutase, ß-lysine 5,6-aminomutase, and 3-oxoacid CoA-transferase. Together, 0.3% RP has the potential to enhance egg quality by partially modulating serum antioxidant status, jejunal barrier function, and cecal microbiota structure and metabolites, indicating that RP could be considered a promising feed additive to promote the production performance of late-phase laying hens.

The effects of a mixture of small peptide chelating minerals and inorganic minerals on the production performance and tissue deposition of broiler chickens.

Due to the limited bioavailability of inorganic trace minerals, their utilization in poultry production has led to problems such as environmental contamination and inefficient resource utilization. It was investigated whether replacing inorganic trace minerals (ITM) with a blend of organic small peptide-chelated trace minerals (MIX) would improve production performance, selected biochemical parameters, antioxidant capacity, mineral deposition in liver, heart, and tibia, as well as mineral content in feces of broilers. A total of 432 healthy 21-day-old 817 broilers were randomly divided into 4 groups with 6 replicates per group and 18 chickens per replicate. The control group received a basal diet supplemented with 1,000 mg/kg of inorganic trace minerals as sulfate. The experimental groups received basal diets supplemented with 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg of mixed trace mineral elements (50% sulfate +50% small peptide-chelate) for a trial period of 30 days, divided into two stages: 21-35 days and 36-50 days. The results indicate that on the 50th day, compared with the 1,000 mg/kg ITM group, the levels of serum cholesterol, urea nitrogen, and malondialdehyde in the 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg MIX groups decreased (p < 0.01), while the levels of serum glutathione peroxidase in the 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg MIX groups increased (p < 0.05). Compared to the ITM group, the addition of organic small peptide chelated trace minerals mixed with inorganic trace minerals can reduce the levels of zinc and manganese in feces (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the iron content in the heart and tibia of the 600 mg/kg MIX group also significantly decreased (p < 0.05). There were no differences in growth performance and slaughter performance among the groups (p > 0.05). This study shows that replacing inorganic minerals with low-dose MIX (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg) can reduce the levels of zinc and manganese in feces, with no negative impact on growth and slaughter performance.

Nutrient utilization, growth performance, and antioxidative status of Barki lambs fed diets supplemented with black (Nigella sativa) and rocket (Eruca sativa) seeds.

The current study aimed to determine the polyphenol compounds in Nigella sativa (NS) and Eruca sativa (ES) seeds, and evaluate the impact of their addition either as a sole additive or in combination on the growth performance, digestibility, some rumen and blood parameters and antioxidative status of Barki lambs. Forty-eight male lambs (27.18 ± 0.22 kg, 5-6 months), were divided into 4 balanced groups. The experimental diets were randomly distributed to the control group (CON); fed alfalfa hay plus concentrate feed mixture at a ratio of 30:70% without additives, while, NSD, ESD, and NESD groups: fed CON diet plus 2% NS, 2% ES or 1% NS + 1% ES, respectively as a ratio from total mixed ration (TMR). Results indicated that rutin and catechin were the most phenolic compounds observed either in NS or ES seeds. The NS and ES-supplemented groups recorded the highest (P < 0.05) values for dry matter digestibility, nutritive values, average daily gain, and the best feed conversion ratio. However, growth performance, nutritive value, and all nutrient digestibility except for dry matter were not significantly altered with the NESD group. Concentrations of ruminal NH3-N and TVFA were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced with the NESD group, with no significant differences in pH values among different groups. Values of blood parameters showed significant increases in WBCs, PCV, and T-AOC, and decreases in cholesterol, triglycerides, and MDA with the addition of NS and ES seeds or both. Therefore, the addition of NS and ES seeds is recommended to improve lambs' health and antioxidant status.

Antioxidant Status, Lipid Metabolism, Egg Fatty Acids, and Nutritional Index of White-Egg Laying Hens Fed Flaxseed Cake.

Flaxseed cake contains high levels of phenolic compounds, which have numerous biological activities, as well as a considerable amount of omega-3 fatty acids, such as α-linolenic acid, which remains after oil extraction. In this study, we examined the effects of flaxseed cake meal (FSCM) on the antioxidative status, lipid metabolism, egg fatty acid profile, and egg health index of white-egg laying hens. A total of 63 Hisex White laying hens were divided into three experimental treatment groups and fed diets containing 0, 5, or 10% FSCM from 48 to 58 weeks of age. Feeding with 5 and 10% FSCM did not significantly (p>0.05) influence total lipid, triglyceride, total cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations, or the high-/low-density lipoprotein ratio in the serum and egg yolk; however, 10% FSCM significantly (P<0.05) increased serum high-density lipoprotein. Dietary FSCM also did not affect (P>0.05) antioxidant markers in the eggs and blood plasma. Notably, dietary inclusion of FSCM significantly increased (P<0.05) total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), α-linolenic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid levels in egg yolk, whereas the n-6:n-3 PUFAs ratio was markedly (P<0.05) decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, including 5-10% FSCM improved (P<0.05) egg health indices, with 10% being the most beneficial. Together, these findings indicated that the inclusion of up to 10% FSCM in laying hen diets improved egg yolk lipid and fatty acid profiles, as well as egg quality and nutritional and metabolic indices.

Effects of Lonicera japonica Extract with Different Contents of Chlorogenic Acid on Lactation Performance, Serum Parameters, and Rumen Fermentation in Heat-Stressed Holstein High-Yielding Dairy Cows.

This examined the effects of Lonicera japonica extract (LJE) with different chlorogenic acid (CGA) contents on lactation performance, antioxidant status and immune function and rumen fermentation in heat-stressed high-yielding dairy cows. In total, 45 healthy Chinese Holstein high-yielding dairy cows, all with similar milk yield, parity, and days in milk were randomly allocated to 3 groups: (1) the control group (CON) without LJE; (2) the LJE-10% CGA group, receiving 35 g/(d·head) of LJE-10% CGA, and (3) the LJE-20% CGA group, receiving 17.5 g/(d·head) of LJE-20% CGA. The results showed that the addition of LJE significantly reduced RT, and enhanced DMI, milk yield, milk composition, and improved rumen fermentation in high-yielding dairy cows experiencing heat stress. Through the analysis of the serum biochemical, antioxidant, and immune indicators, we observed a reduction in CREA levels and increased antioxidant and immune function. In this study, while maintaining consistent CGA content, the effects of addition from both types of LJE are similar. In conclusion, the addition of LJE at a level of 4.1 g CGA/(d·head) effectively relieved heat stress and improved the lactation performance of dairy cows, with CGA serving as the effective ingredient responsible for its anti-heat stress properties.

A case-control study on asthma and obese patients: Influence of lifestyle patterns, serum trace elements, heavy metals, and total antioxidants.

Background and aim: Asthma is a chronic airway hyperresponsiveness disorder and Obese people have greater rates of asthma incidence and prevalence. Obesity, a complex condition, can cause nutritional metabolic problems that change trace elements and minerals. Trace element and antioxidant levels affect asthma aetiology. In this study, we aim to determine the serum levels of trace elements Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, Co, Ni, Pb, Cd, and Cr, total antioxidants (TAS), and lifestyle that determine specific clinical conditions in asthma and obesity patients from Vellore City (Tamil Nadu, India). Methods: A case-control study to determine the level of the serum trace elements with 838 subjects (n = 242 asthma patients, n = 140 asthmatic obese, n = 185 obese patients, and n = 271 controls) between the ages of 20 and 60 years was carried out. Asthma was diagnosed based on the clinical examination and pulmonary function tests. Trace element levels were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) in serum, and a DPPH-free radical scavenging assay was used to determine the total antioxidant capacity level in serum. Result: In asthma male patients, serum levels of Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower and Pb, Cd, and Cr significantly higher, whereas in female asthma patients, serum levels of Zn, Fe, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower and Pb significantly higher. In asthmatic obese male patients, Fe, Cu, and TAS were significantly lower, and Pb, Cd, and Co were significantly higher; in asthmatic obese female patients, Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower, and Ni was significantly higher. In obese male patients, Zn, Fe, Cu, and TAS were significantly lower and Cd was significantly higher, and in obese female patients, Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower. Conclusion: The influence of the level of trace elements, heavy metal, total antioxidant, and the lifestyle patterns, may increase the risk of asthma and obesity.

Prolidase could be considered a sign of inflammation associated with cigarette smoking.

Objectives: Smoking causes inflammation, thickening, and narrowing of the airways. This inflammatory process is a reaction to free radicals and oxidants. Smoking affects collagen metabolism and tissue remodeling. Prolidase enzyme hydrolyzes iminodipeptides with hydroxyproline and C terminal proline. It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of collagen and the remodeling of the matrix. The present study aims to reveal the association of prolidase with inflammation caused by smoking and to compare serum prolidase levels with oxidative-antioxidative status in healthy individuals. Methods: A total of 76 participants (38 smokers and 38 nonsmokers) were involved in the present study. Serum cotinine levels were measured to show the exposure to nicotine in tobacco smoke by using the competitive inhibition enzyme immunoassay method. Serum prolidase, total oxidant status (TOS), and total antioxidant status (TAS) were determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) method, respectively. The correlation between smoking, serum prolidase levels, TOS, and TAS was investigated. Results: TAS and serum prolidase levels of smokers were considerably lower than those in non-smokers (p < 0.001, p = 0.012 respectively). However, no differences were observed in TOS between the two groups. There was no statistically significant correlation between serum prolidase levels, TAS, and TOS. Moreover, no relationship was observed between respiratory function parameters and serum prolidase levels. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first study to demonstrate the role of prolidase in smoking-related inflammation. The results achieved in the present study suggest that smoking creates an imbalance in the oxidant-antioxidant activity. Smoking decreases prolidase levels, leading to decreased collagen turnover. Chronic pulmonary disease might be related to this decrease in collagen turnover.

Enhancing Milk Quality and Antioxidant Status in Lactating Dairy Goats through the Dietary Incorporation of Purple Napier Grass Silage.

Oxidative stress resulting from an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants can cause damage to certain cellular components. Purple Napier grass, a semi-dwarf variety, is characterized by its purple leaves and contains anthocyanins, which provide it with antioxidant properties. This study examined the effects of feeding purple Napier grass ("Prince") silage to lactating dairy goats on blood antioxidant activity, milk yield, and milk quality. Eighteen female Saanen crossbred goats, weighing 52.34 ± 2.86 kg and producing milk for 14 ± 2 days, were systematically divided into three groups based on their lactation period in the previous cycle as follows: early, mid, and late lactation. In a randomized complete block design (RCBD), treatments were randomly allocated to six animals in each block. The dairy goats were fed a total mixed ration (TMR) consisting of the three following treatments: control (100% Napier Pakchong 1 grass silage), 50% (a 50% replacement of the control with purple Napier grass silage), and 100% (100% purple Napier grass silage). The results show that goats who were fed a diet including 100% purple Napier grass silage showed higher levels of certain milk contents, especially with regard to lactose, when compared to those who were fed a control diet, as well as a diet with a 50% replacement of purple Napier grass silage. The somatic cell count (SCC) of these goats was reduced. In terms of antioxidant activity, dairy goats who were fed 100% purple Napier grass silage showed higher levels of enzymes in both plasma and milk, including glutathione s-transferase, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical, compared to the control group and the 50% replacement group. The plasma and milk of these goats showed lower levels of malondialdehyde. The dairy goats who were fed a 100% purple Napier grass silage diet showed higher concentrations of anthocyanins, including C3G, P3G, Peo3G, M3G, Cya, Pel, and total anthocyanins in milk, when compared to the control group and the 50% replacement group. The increased replacement of purple Napier grass silage led to significant differences in lactose levels, somatic cell count, glutathione S-transferase, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical, and the composition of anthocyanins. This study provides evidence to support the use of purple Napier grass silage as a beneficial source of roughage for lactating dairy goats.

Benefits of heat-killed Lactobacillus acidophilus on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant status, immunity, and cecal microbiota of rabbits.

Introduction: Heat-killed probiotics, as a type of inactivated beneficial microorganisms, possess an extended shelf life and broader adaptability compared to their live counterparts. This study aimed to investigate the impact of heat-killed Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus, LA) - a deactivated probiotic on the growth performance, digestibility, antioxidant status, immunity and cecal microbiota of rabbits. Methods: Two hundred weaned Hyla rabbits were randomly allocated into five equal groups (CON, L200, L400, L600, and L800). Over a 28-day period, the rabbits were fed basal diets supplemented with 0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 mg/kg of heat-killed LA, respectively. Results: Results revealed a significant reduction in the feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) in the L600 and L800 groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, the L800 group exhibited significantly higher apparent digestibility of crude fiber (CF) and crude protein (CP) (p < 0.05). Regarding digestive enzyme activities, enhanced trypsin and fibrinase activities were observed in the L600 and L800 groups (p < 0.05). Concerning the regulation of the body's antioxidant status, the L800 group demonstrated elevated levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in both serum and ileal tissue (p < 0.05). In terms of immune capacity modulation, serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were significantly lower in the L600 and L800 groups (p < 0.05), while immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels were higher (p < 0.05). Additionally, the L800 group exhibited a substantial increase in secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) levels in the intestinal mucosa (p < 0.05). In comparison to the CON group, the L800 group exhibited a significant increase in the relative abundance of Phascolarctobacterium and Alistipes in the cecum (p < 0.05). Phascolarctobacterium demonstrated a positive correlation with SIgA (p < 0.05), IgM (p < 0.01), and Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (p < 0.05), while displaying a negative correlation with TNF-α levels (p < 0.05). Concurrently, Alistipes exhibited positive correlations with IgA (p < 0.05), IgM (p < 0.05), SIgA (p < 0.01), GSH-Px (p < 0.05), SOD (p < 0.05), and T-AOC (p < 0.01), and a negative correlation with TNF-α (p < 0.05). Discussion: In conclusion, the dietary incorporation of 600 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg of heat-killed LA positively influenced the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant status, immune capacity and cecal microbiota of rabbits. This highlights the potential benefits of utilizing heat-killed probiotics in animal nutrition.

Effects of Dietary Selenium Yeast Supplementation on Lactation Performance, Antioxidant Status, and Immune Responses in Lactating Donkeys.

Donkey milk is a traditional medicinal food with various biological activities. However, its production is very low, and lactating donkeys often experience oxidative stress, leading to a further decline in milk yield. In this study, we supplemented the diets of lactating donkeys with yeast selenium (SY) to investigate its effects on lactation performance, antioxidant status, and immune responses, and we expected to determine the optimum additive level of SY in the diet. For this study, 28 healthy lactating Dezhou donkeys with days in milk (DIM, 39.93 ± 7.02 d), estimated milk yield (EMY, 3.60 ± 0.84 kg/d), and parity (2.82 ± 0.48) were selected and randomly divided into 4 groups of 7 donkeys in each: Group SY-0 (control), Group SY-0.15, Group SY-0.3, and Group SY-0.5, with selenium supplementation of 0, 0.15, 0.3, and 0.5 mg of Se/kg DM (in form of SY) to the basal diet, respectively. The results showed a dose-dependent increase in milk yield, milk component yield, milk protein production efficiency, milk production efficiency, the activities of glutathione peroxidases (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), as well as the content of serum interleukin-10 (IL-10), white blood cells (WBC), lymphocytes (LYM), red blood cells (RBC), hematocrit, plasma selenium, and milk selenium. Conversely, it presented a dose-dependent decrease in the activity of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ). In conclusion, the results confirmed that dietary supplementation with SY can improve lactation performance, antioxidant status, and immune responses in lactating donkeys, and the recommended dose of SY was 0.3 mg/kg.

Effects of Dietary Eucommia ulmoides Leaf Extract Supplementation on Growth Performance, Meat Quality, Antioxidant Capacity, and Lipid Metabolism of Finishing Pigs.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary Eucommia ulmoides leaf extract (ELE) on meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and lipid metabolism in finishing pigs. A total of 240 "Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire" crossbred pigs with an initial weight of 74.70 ± 0.77 kg were randomly assigned to two groups: control group and 0.2% ELE group, with each group containing 10 replicates of 12 pigs per pen (half barrows and half gilts). The data showed dietary 0.2% ELE supplementation did not affect growth performance but tended to reduce the backfat thickness of the finishing pigs (p = 0.07). ELE diets increased pH value (p < 0.05) and meat color score (p = 0.01) and decreased 45 min L* value (p < 0.05), 24 h L* value (p = 0.01), pressurization loss (p = 0.01), and 24 h drip loss (p < 0.05) in longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle, accompanied by an increased (p < 0.05) proportion of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and decreased polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (p = 0.06) and n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio (p = 0.05) compared to controls. In addition, ELE supplementation increased inosine monophosphate (IMP) (p = 0.01), sweet amino acids (AAs) (p < 0.05), and total free AA content (p = 0.05) in LD. Meanwhile, increased activity of glutathione peroxidase (p < 0.05) and superoxide dismutase (p < 0.01) in both serum and LD muscle and decreased malondialdehyde content (p < 0.01) in LD muscle were detected with ELE treatment. Moreover, pigs fed ELE had a higher total protein (p < 0.01), albumin (p < 0.05), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.05) and a lower total cholesterol (p < 0.01) and triacylglycerols (p = 0.06) in serum. Consistently, significant effects of dietary ELE were observed on the relative mRNA expression of lipid metabolism in the backfat and the LD muscle, respectively. ELE attenuated lipogenic processes in backfat, decreasing the relative expression of acetyl-CoA carboxylase and upregulating the relative expression of adipose triacyl glyceride lipase, carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1B, and fatty acid-binding protein 4 (p < 0.05). ELE also decreased the relative expression of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (p < 0.05), fatty acid translocase (p < 0.05), carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1B (p < 0.01), and adipose triacyl glyceride lipase (p < 0.05) in LD muscle (p < 0.05). More specifically, lipogenesis appeared to be inhibited in both LD muscle and backfat, with the difference being that lipolysis was enhanced in backfat and inhibited in LD muscle. In conclusion, dietary ELE supplementation can potentially enhance carcass traits, sensory quality, and nutritional value of pork without negatively affecting intramuscular fat content. The underlying mechanism for these positive effects may be linked to the alterations in lipid metabolism and increased antioxidant capacity induced by ELE.

Oxidative Imbalance in Pediatric Anxiety Disorders: A Preliminary Comparative Study.

Background It is important to determine the possible related factors of anxiety disorder, one of the common psychiatric disorders of childhood. Our aims in this study were to compare oxidative stress markers between anxiety disorders in pediatric patients and healthy controls and to examine the relationship between anxiety symptom severity and oxidative stress indicators. Methods The study included 25 patients and 25 healthy controls. We measured the total oxidant capacity (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAS) from the collected serum samples and calculated the oxidative stress index (OSI). We evaluated the clinical severity of the anxiety symptoms by the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale-Child Version (RCADS-CV). Results The groups did not exhibit a noteworthy distinction in terms of TOS (p=0.128) and TAS (p=0.329). However, OSI was markedly elevated in the group with anxiety disorder (p=0.044). In the correlation analysis between anxiety symptom severity and oxidative stress indicators in the group with anxiety disorder, we found a positive correlation between TOS and RCADS total anxiety score (p=0.08). Conclusion These results may point to an oxidative dysfunction in anxiety disorders and the potential role of oxidative stress in their aetiology. Prospective, large-scale, randomized studies are needed to investigate if oxidative stress indicators can be used in the diagnosis of anxiety disorders and as new treatment targets.

The Effects of Housing on Growth, Immune Function and Antioxidant Status of Young Female Lambs in Cold Conditions.

Cold conditions in northern China during winter may reduce sheep growth and affect their health, especially if they are young, unless housing is provided. We allocated 45 two-month-old female lambs to be housed in an enclosed building, a polytunnel, or kept outdoors, for 28 days. The daily weight gain and scalp and ear skin temperature of outdoor lambs were less than those of lambs that were housed in either a house or polytunnel; however, rectal temperature was unaffected by treatment. There was a progressive change in blood composition over time, and by the end of the experiment, outdoor lambs had reduced total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and increased malondialdehyde compared to those in the house or polytunnel. In relation to immune responses in the lambs' serum, in the polytunnel, immunoglobulin A (IgA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) were higher and immunoglobulin G (IgG) lower compared with the concentrations in lambs that were outdoors. Over the course of the experiment, genes expressing heat shock proteins and antioxidant enzymes increased in lambs in the outdoor treatment, whereas they decreased in lambs in the indoor treatments. It is concluded that although there were no treatment effects on core body temperature, the trends for progressive changes in blood composition and gene expression indicate that the outdoor lambs were not physiologically stable; hence, they should not be kept outdoors in these environmental conditions for long periods.