In Vitro Culturing of Human Term Placental Explants.

The study of the human placenta has always been appealing, given the importance of this temporal organ capable of sustaining the beginning of life and development of a new human being within the womb. Culturing placental explants has been an easy and reliable method to study some placental morphological, biochemical, and physiological features for a very long time. Besides low time consumption, requirement of few resources, and wide versatility, the placental explant in vitro culture retains cell-cell interaction in a 3D structure resembling the in vivo setting, which is why it is the option of choice for many researchers in the field. This chapter will describe a simplified method for culturing explants from human term placentas.

Estereología en placentas procedentes de gestaciones gemelares / Stereology in placentas from twin pregnancies

Introducción: La disfunción placentaria origina complicaciones fetales; de manera más frecuente, la restricción del crecimiento intrauterino y la preclampsia. Objetivo: Identificar el patrón estereológico en placentas gemelares, y su relación con la corionicidad y el peso del recién nacido. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo en una muestra de 16 gestantes gemelares, 25 placentas y 32 recién nacidos. Se estudiaron las variables peso del recién nacido, número de vellosidades, superficie vellositaria total, área vellositaria, área de nodos, densidad óptica de fibrina en la superficie vellositaria y densidad óptica de fibrina alrededor del vaso. Resultados: Existió relación directa entre el número de vellosidades y la superficie vellositaria total. En las placentas monocoriónicas hubo predominio de recién nacidos bajo peso. Se percibe una diferencia en los resultados de área, según el tipo placentario y la región topográfica. En las placentas monocoriales se observó mayor área, tanto de la vellosidad placentaria como en los nodos sincitiales, siendo el área de la vellosidad mayor en la periferia placentaria, y el área de nodos sincitiales en la región 4 cm del cordón umbilical. Conclusiones: La estereología microscópica a nivel pericordón, a 4 cm del cordón y en la periferia del disco placentario, arrojó diferencias significativas para el área de la vellosidad y la densidad óptica de fibrina en la superficie de la vellosidad. Los valores promedio para el área de nodos sincitiales y la densidad óptica de fibrina alrededor del vaso no mostraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas. Es la corionicidad un predictor del bajo peso al nacer(AU)

Introduction: Placental dysfunction causes fetal complications; more frequently, intrauterine growth restriction and preeclampsia. Objective: To identify the stereological pattern in twin placentas, and its relationship with chorionicity and weight of the newborn. Methods: A descriptive study was carried out in a sample of 16 women with twin pregnancy, 25 placentas and 32 newborns. The variables weight of the newborn, number of villi, total villous surface, villous area, node area, optical density of fibrin on the villous surface and optical density of fibrin around the vessel were studied. Results: There was a direct relationship between the number of villi and the total villous surface. In monochorionic placentas there was a predominance of low birth weight newborns. A difference is observed in the area results according to the placental type and the topographic region. In monochorionic placentas, a greater area was observed, both in the placental villus and in the syncytial nodes, with the villus area being greater in the placental periphery and the area of syncytial nodes in the region 4 cm from the umbilical cord. Conclusions: Microscopic stereology at the perichordal level, 4 cm from the cord and at the periphery of the placental disc showed significant differences for the villus area and fibrin optical density on the villus surface. The average values for the area of syncytial nodes and the optical density of fibrin around the vessel did not show statistically significant differences. Chorionicity is a predictor of low birth weight(AU)

The relationship between obesity-related H19DMR methylation and H19 and IGF2 gene expression on offspring growth and body composition.

Background and objective: Imprinted genes are important for the offspring development. To assess the relationship between obesity-related H19DMR methylation and H19 and IGF2 gene expression and offspring growth and body composition. Methods: Thirty-nine overweight/obese and 25 normal weight pregnant women were selected from the "Araraquara Cohort Study" according to their pre-pregnancy BMI. Fetal growth and body composition and newborn growth were assessed, respectively, by ultrasound and anthropometry. The methylation of H19DMR in maternal blood, cord blood, maternal decidua and placental villi tissues was evaluated by methylation-sensitive restriction endonuclease qPCR, and H19 and IGF2 expression by relative real-time PCR quantification. Multiple linear regression models explored the associations of DNA methylation and gene expression with maternal, fetal, and newborn parameters. Results: H19DMR was less methylated in maternal blood of the overweight/obese group. There were associations of H19DMR methylation in cord blood with centiles of fetal biparietal diameter (BPD) and abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness and newborn head circumference (HC); H19DMR methylation in maternal decidua with fetal occipitofrontal diameter (OFD), HC, and length; H19DMR methylation in placental villi with fetal OFD, HC and abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness and with newborn HC. H19 expression in maternal decidua was associated with fetal BPD and femur length centiles and in placental villi with fetal OFD and subcutaneous arm fat. IGF2 expression in maternal decidua was associated with fetal BPD and in placental villi with fetal OFD. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate associations of imprinted genes variations at the maternal-fetal interface of the placenta and in cord blood with fetal body composition, supporting the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms in offspring growth and body composition.

Effect of the Addition of Humic Substances on Morphometric Analysis and Number of Goblet Cells in the Intestinal Mucosa of Broiler Chickens.

The mechanisms of action of humic substances (HS) as growth promoters in poultry are unknown. In this study, the productive performance, histology, and number of goblet cells (GC) in the intestinal villi of broilers under steady-state digestive conditions and under abrupt changes in diet with the addition of HS was evaluated. Broilers housed individually were offered three treatments from 14−28 days: 1 = diet with white corn/soybean meal, without growth promoter antibiotics (nonGPA); 2 = with GPA (GPA); and 3 = with 0.3% HS. At day 28, two diets were suddenly introduced: (A) white corn/soybean meal plus dried distillers' grains with solubles (DDGS); and (B) white/blue corn/soybean meal/DDGS, keeping the three original treatments. Diets A and B were also exchanged on day 37. FCR was lower with GPA and HS compared to nonGPA from 14−38 days (p < 0.05); at day 28, under steady-state digestive conditions, HS had a similar effect to GPA on the histology and GC number in the jejunum villi. The number of GC in the jejunum of HS-fed broilers on days 29 and 38, after diet changes, behaves similarly to that of AGP-fed broilers (p > 0.05). HS appears to strengthen the mucosal protection of the epithelium of the intestine.

Fetal vascular malperfusion score is linked with developing preeclampsia in women with gestational diabetes mellitus: a retrospective cohort study

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Fetal vascular malperfusion is associated with poor perinatal outcomes in women with preeclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to determine the association between fetal vascular malperfusion score and syncytiotrophoblast basement membrane thickness and clinicopathological variables, such as developing preeclampsia in women with gestational diabetes mellitus. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 65 pregnant participants (34 with gestational diabetes mellitus and 31 controls) between January 2019 and January 2022. Gestational diabetes mellitus was diagnosed as ≥2 of 4 elevated values on a 3-h, 100-g oral glucose tolerance test. The fetal vascular malperfusion score was evaluated by endothelial CD34 positivity in the villous stroma of the placenta. The association between fetal vascular malperfusion score and syncytiotrophoblast basement membrane thickness with clinicopathological variables in women with gestational diabetes mellitus was evaluated. RESULTS: It was revealed that the gestational diabetes mellitus group had greater fetal vascular malperfusion scores than the control group (gestational diabetes mellitus group fetal vascular malperfusion score: 34.2±9.1 and control group fetal vascular malperfusion score: 26.5±8.7, respectively, p=0.0009). Syncytiotrophoblast basement membrane thickness was correlated with the development of preeclampsia, trophoblast proliferation, and fetal vascular malperfusions (0.3952, p=0.0129; 0.3487, p=0.0211; and 0.4331, p=0.0082, respectively). On the contrary, fetal vascular malperfusions were correlated with the development of preeclampsia, villous edema, and trophoblast proliferation (0.3154, p=0.0343; 0.2922, p=0.4123; and 0.3142, p=0.0355, respectively). CONCLUSION: The gestational diabetes mellitus group displayed significantly higher fetal vascular malperfusion scores and thickening of the syncytiotrophoblast basement membrane than the control group. There is a correlation between developing preeclampsia and the fetal vascular malperfusion scores and the syncytiotrophoblast basement membrane thickness.

Comparison between the techniques of inclusion in glycol methacrylate (GMA)-based plastic resin and paraffin for evaluation intestinal morphometry in horses.

To determine the effect of the inclusion method on the histomorphometric evaluation of the gastrointestinal mucosa of horses, jejunum samples were collected using flank laparotomy. Sixteen mixed breed healthy adult horses, including four males and 12 females, aged 4-14 years with an average body weight of 248.40 ± 2.28 kg, were used. Jejunal biopsies were collected and analyzed by light microscopy using two methods: group 1 comprised biopsies fixed using 10% neutral formalin and embedded in paraffin; biopsies in group 2 were fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde in 0.1 M phosphate buffer pH 7.2, followed by inclusion in glycol methacrylate (GMA)-based plastic resin. Intestinal villi height, crypt depth, glandular mucosa thickness, total mucosal thickness, and villus/crypt ratio were then evaluated. For all the variables studied, with exception of the villus/crypt ratio, a significant difference (p < 0.05) was found between samples in groups 1 and 2. Processing samples for embedding in plastic resin was quicker and easier to perform compared to that for paraffin embedding. In addition, the epithelial lining of tissues in group 2 showed better resolution for conducting cytological studies under a light microscope. The difference between the studied variables can be attributed to tissue retraction caused by conventional processing for inclusion in paraffin. Therefore, the method of inclusion in GMA described in the present study appears to be a more reliable choice for morphometric evaluation of the intestinal mucosa of horses.

Para determinar o efeito do método de inclusão sobre a avaliação histomorfométrica da mucosa gastrointestinal de equinos foram coletadas amostras do jejuno por laparotomia pelo flanco. Foram utilizados 16 equinos adultos hígidos, sem raça definida, de ambos os sexos, quatro machos e 12 fêmeas, com idade variando entre quatro e 14 anos, e peso corporal médio de 248,40 + 2,28kg. Amostras do jejuno foram coletadas e processadas para biopsia em microscopia de luz sob dois métodos: grupo 1 - fixação em formalina neutra tamponada a 10% e inclusão em parafina, grupo 2 - fixação em glutaraldeído 2,5% em tampão fosfato 0,1M pH 7,2, seguido de inclusão em resina plástica à base de glicol metacrilato. Os seguintes parâmetros foram avaliados: altura das vilosidades intestinais, profundidade de cripta, espessura da mucosa glandular, espessura total da mucosa e relação vilo/cripta. Para todas as variáveis estudadas, exceto relação vilo/cripta, foi encontrada diferença significativa (p<0,05) entre os dois métodos. O processamento para inclusão em resina plástica foi rápido e de fácil execução quando comparado à inclusão em parafina. Além disso, o epitélio de revestimento apresentou melhor resolução das células para estudo histológico ao microscópio de luz. A diferença entre as variáveis pode ser atribuída a retração do tecido provocada pelo processamento convencional por inclusão em parafina. Portanto, o método de inclusão em GMA mostrou-se, no presente estudo, uma escolha mais fidedigna para as avaliações morfométricas da mucosa intestinal de equinos.

Higroma quístico retronucal como marcador de anomalías cromosómicas en el primer trimestre de la gestación - Actualización

Objetivo. Evaluar la asociación del higroma quístico retronucal (HQR) y anomalías cromosómicas fetales. Métodos. Estudio observacional retrospectivo de 323 fetos del primer trimestre con riesgo para anomalías cromosómicas diagnosticados por ecografía entre las 11 y 13,6 semanas. Resultados. De 323 fetos con riesgo para anomalías cromosómicas, se encontró 132 casos de anomalías cromosómicas (40,9%). Se identificaron 145 casos de HQR; en 64 (56,6%) se realizó biopsia de vellosidades coriales y en 81 (43,5%) amniocentesis, hallándose cariotipo anómalo en 82 (56,6%). De 88 fetos con HQR aislado, 33 casos (37,5%) tuvieron alguna anomalía cromosómica; en 58 fetos con HQR asociado a otros hallazgos anormales, se encontró que en 43 fetos (74,1%) hubo anomalías cromosómicas, y de ellos 24 (41,4%) tenían onda de flujo (OVF) anormal del ductus venoso, 17 (29,3%) tenían edema generalizado, 8 casos (13,8%) con cardiopatía, 7 (12,1%) ausencia del hueso nasal. Los valores predictivos del HQR fueron: sensibilidad (S) 62,1%, especificidad (E) 67%, valor predictivo positivo (VPP) 56,6%, valor predictivo negativo (VPN) 71,9%, p<0,001, OR: 3,3. El HQR asociado a otros hallazgos anormales, tuvo los siguientes valores predictivos: S 52,4%, E 76,2%, VPP 76,2%, OR: 3,5, LR+: 2,2, p<0,000. El edema generalizado y el ductus venoso anormal tuvieron los valores predictivos más altos: VPP 88,2% y 83,3%, respectivamente. Las anomalías cromosómicas encontradas con mayor frecuencia fueron: T21 (53,7%), monosomía X (18,3%), T18 (15,9%), T13 (6,1%). Conclusiones. El higroma quístico retronucal es un marcador de riesgo con alto valor predictivo para anomalías cromosómicas, siendo mayor cuando está asociado a otros hallazgos ecográficos anormales. La identificación ecográfica del HQR en el tamizaje prenatal del primer trimestre debería ser indicación para recomendar una prueba diagnóstica para anomalías cromosómicas.

Objective: To evaluate the association of retronucal cystic hygroma (RCH) and fetal chromosomal abnormalities. Methods: Retrospective observational study of 323 first trimester fetuses at risk for chromosomal abnormalities diagnosed by ultrasound between 11 and 13.6 weeks. Results: Of 323 fetuses at risk for chromosomal abnormalities, 132 cases of chromosomal abnormalities were found (40.9%). A total of 145 cases of RCH were identified; chorionic villus biopsy was performed in 64 (56.6%) and amniocentesis in 81 (43.5%); an abnormal karyotype was found in 82 (56.6%). Of 88 fetuses with isolated RCH, 33 (37.5%) had some chromosomal abnormality. In 58 fetuses with RCH associated with other abnormal findings, chromosomal abnormalities were found in 43 fetuses (74.1%) and of these 24 (41.4%) had abnormal ductus venosus flow wave (DVF), 17 (29.3%) had generalized edema, 8 cases (13.8%) with cardiopathy, 7 (12,1%) with absent nasal bone. The predictive values of RCH were sensitivity (S) 62.1%, specificity (Sp) 67%, positive predictive value (PPV) 56.6%, negative predictive value (NPV) 71.9%, p<0.001, OR: 3.3. RCH associated with other abnormal findings were S 52.4%, Sp 76.2%, PPV 76.2%, OR: 3.5, LR+: 2.2, p<0.000. Generalized edema and abnormal ductus venosus had the highest predictive values: PPV 88.2% and 83.3%, respectively. The most frequently found chromosomal abnormalities were T21 (53.7%), monosomy X (18.3%), T18 (15.9%), T13 (6.1%). Conclusions: Retronucal cystic hygroma is a risk marker with high predictive value for chromosomal abnormalities, being higher when associated with other abnormal ultrasound findings. Ultrasonographic identification of RCH in first trimester prenatal screening should be an indication to recommend diagnostic testing for chromosomal abnormalities.

Intestinal morphometry and performance of broiler chickens subjected to diets with buriti oil / [Morfometria intestinal e desempenho de frangos de corte submetidos a dietas com óleo de buriti]

This study aimed to evaluate the productive performance, carcass yield, and intestinal morphometry of broiler chickens subjected to diets with the inclusion of buriti oil. Buriti oil is an energy food that can be used in chicken feed to replace soybean oil, which has a high cost in production, also has its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, which can provide benefits in chicken feed. 180 male broilers of the Ross lineage were used, distributed in a completely randomized design with 3 treatments and 6 replicates of 10 birds per experimental unit. The experimental phase took place from 14 to 28 days and levels 0; 0.75 and 1.50% of buriti oil were added to the corn and soybean-based feed. It can be inferred that the buriti oil-based diets in the diet with insertion of levels of 0%, 0.75% and 1.50% did not differ significantly for the productive performance variables, but in relation to the productive yield there was a significant difference for carcass yield accompanied by greater disposition of abdominal fat, thigh and heart fat, a common effect in the use of oils. Although no statistical differences were observed for most of the variables in the assessment of intestinal morphometry, there was an increase in the crypt depth of the duodenum and ileum and an increase in the muscle layer of the duodenum and jejunum, which may have been caused by some injury to the intestine and not by direct effect of buriti oil. In the other variables there was no difference between treatments and it is concluded that buriti oil did not harm the performance, yield and intestinal morphometry of broiler chickens from 14 to 28 days of age.

Objetivou-se, com essa pesquisa, avaliar o desempenho produtivo, o rendimento de carcaça e a morfometria intestinal de frangos de corte com dietas submetidas à inclusão do óleo de buriti. Trata-se de um alimento energético que pode ser utilizado na alimentação de frangos visando substituir o óleo de soja, o qual apresenta alto custo na produção. O óleo de buriti ainda possui suas propriedades anti-inflamatórias, antioxidantes, antimicrobianas, podendo conferir benefícios na alimentação de frangos. Foram utilizados 180 frangos de corte machos, da linhagem Ross, distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com três tratamentos e seis repetições de 10 aves por unidade experimental. A fase experimental ocorreu de 14 a 28 dias, e os níveis 0%, 0,75% e 1,50% de óleo de buriti foram inseridos na ração à base de milho e soja. Pode-se inferir que as dietas à base de óleo de buriti na dieta com inserção dos níveis de 0%, 0,75% e 1,50% não diferiram significativamente para as variáveis de desempenho produtivo, mas, em relação ao rendimento produtivo, houve uma diferença significativa para o rendimento de carcaça, acompanhado de maior disposição de gordura abdominal, gordura de sobrecoxa e coração, efeito comum na utilização de óleos. Apesar de não serem observadas diferenças estatísticas para a maioria das variáveis na avaliação da morfometria intestinal, houve aumento na profundidade de cripta do duodeno e do íleo, bem como aumento da camada muscular do duodeno e do jejuno, que podem ter sido provocados por alguma injúria no intestino e não por efeito direto do óleo de buriti. Nas demais variáveis, não houve diferença entre os tratamentos, e conclui-se que o óleo de buriti não causou prejuízo ao desempenho, ao rendimento e à morfometria intestinal de frangos de corte no período de 14 a 28 dias de idade.

The impact of Zika virus exposure on the placental proteomic profile.

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection has caused severe unexpected clinical outcomes in neonates and adults during the recent outbreak in Latin America, particularly in Brazil. Congenital malformations associated with ZIKV have been frequently reported; nevertheless, the mechanism of vertical transmission and the involvement of placental cells remains unclear. In this study, we applied quantitative proteomics analysis in a floating explant model of chorionic villi of human placental tissues incubated with ZIKV and with ZIKV pre-adsorbed with anti-ZIKV envelope protein. Proteomic data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD025764. Altered levels of proteins were involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, inflammatory processes, and the integrin-cytoskeleton complex. Antibody-opsonized ZIKV particles differentially modulated the pattern of protein expression in placental cells; this phenomenon may play a pivotal role in determining the course of infection and the role of mixed infections. The expression of specific proteins was also evaluated by immunoperoxidase assays. These data fill gaps in our understanding of early events after ZIKV placental exposure and help identify infection control targets.

Performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits in sheep finished on diets containing canola (Brassica napusL. )

The objective of this study was to evaluate performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass,and non-carcass traits in lambs finished on different levels of canola grain in thediet. Twenty-seven Santa Ines lambs with an average initial weight of 19.33 ± 1.39 kg were given different levels of canola grain in the diet: 0, 8,and 16%. Weights and body condition scores were determined at the beginning, every 14 days and at the end of the experimental period. Animals were slaughtered to assess gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits. The statistical design used was completely randomized. The inclusion of canola grain showed a linear effect (0.723) for the width and height of ruminal papillae in the ventral region of the rumen. Intestinal villi and crypts showed a quadratic effect, with peaks of 0.62&956;m and 0.43&956;m, with the inclusion of 8 and 16%, respectively. When evaluating carcass traits, a decreasing linear effect was found for hot and cold carcass yield with 16% inclusion of canola. Canola grain can be used as an alternative in diets for finishing sheep up to 8% inclusion in the diet without affecting performance, ruminal and intestinal histometry, carcass,and non-carcass traits.(AU)

Performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits in sheep finished on diets containing canola (Brassica napus L.) / Performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits in sheep finished on diets containing canola (Brassica napus L.)

The objective of this study was to evaluate performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits in lambs finished on different levels of canola grain in the diet. Twenty-seven Santa Ines lambs with an average initial weight of 19.33 ± 1.39 kg were given different levels of canola grain in the diet: 0, 8, and 16%. Weights and body condition scores were determined at the beginning, every 14 days and at the end of the experimental period. Animals were slaughtered to assess gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits. The statistical design used was completely randomized. The inclusion of canola grain showed a linear effect (0.723) for the width and height of ruminal papillae in the ventral region of the rumen. Intestinal villi and crypts showed a quadratic effect, with peaks of 0.62 µm and 0.43 µm, with the inclusion of 8 and 16%, respectively. When evaluating carcass traits, a decreasing linear effect was found for hot and cold carcass yield with 16% inclusion of canola. Canola grain can be used as an alternative in diets for finishing sheep up to 8% inclusion in the diet without affecting performance, ruminal and intestinal histometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits.

The objective of this study was to evaluate performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits in lambs finished on different levels of canola grain in the diet. Twenty-seven Santa Ines lambs with an average initial weight of 19.33 ± 1.39 kg were given different levels of canola grain in the diet: 0, 8, and 16%. Weights and body condition scores were determined at the beginning, every 14 days and at the end of the experimental period. Animals were slaughtered to assess gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits. The statistical design used was completely randomized. The inclusion of canola grain showed a linear effect (0.723) for the width and height of ruminal papillae in the ventral region of the rumen. Intestinal villi and crypts showed a quadratic effect, with peaks of 0.62 µm and 0.43 µm, with the inclusion of 8 and 16%, respectively. When evaluating carcass traits, a decreasing linear effect was found for hot and cold carcass yield with 16% inclusion of canola. Canola grain can be used as an alternative in diets for finishing sheep up to 8% inclusion in the diet without affecting performance, ruminal and intestinal histometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits.

The Effects of Adding Juniper Berry in Broiler Diets on Performance, Parameters of Serum, Carcass, Histopathology and Jejunum Villi Lengths

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of adding fruit of juniper berry (Juniperus communis) on performance, some carcass characteristics, serum parameters, histopathological features and jejunum villi lengths in broiler diets. A total of 150 male chicks were used in the study. The chicks were housed for 42 days. One of the experimental groups was a control group, and the diets of the 4 treatment groups included 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and 2% dried natural juniper berries, respectively. Addition of fruit of juniper berry to the diets had positive effects on body weight, average daily weight gain, feed conversion rate and slaughter weight, feed intake, hot carcass yield and serum calcium and phosphorus levels. Juniper berry addition in the diets also increased the length of the jejunum villi. As a result, it can be recommended to add up to 1% of juniper berry in broiler diet.(AU)

Performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits in sheep finished on diets containing canola (Brassica napus L)

The objective of this study was to evaluate performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits in lambs finished on different levels of canola grain in the diet. Twenty-seven Santa Ines lambs with an average initial weight of 19.33 ± 1.39 kg were given different levels of canola grain in the diet: 0, 8, and 16%. Weights and body condition scores were determined at the beginning, every 14 days and at the end of the experimental period. Animals were slaughtered to assess gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits. The statistical design used was completely randomized. The inclusion of canola grain showed a linear effect (0.723) for the width and height of ruminal papillae in the ventral region of the rumen. Intestinal villi and crypts showed a quadratic effect, with peaks of 0.62 µm and 0.43 µm, with the inclusion of 8 and 16%, respectively. When evaluating carcass traits, a decreasing linear effect was found for hot and cold carcass yield with 16% inclusion of canola. Canola grain can be used as an alternative in diets for finishing sheep up to 8% inclusion in the diet without affecting performance, ruminal and intestinal histometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits.(AU)

Performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits in sheep finished on diets containing canola (Brassica napus L.) / Performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits in sheep finished on diets containing canola (Brassica napus L.)

The objective of this study was to evaluate performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits in lambs finished on different levels of canola grain in the diet. Twenty-seven Santa Ines lambs with an average initial weight of 19.33 ± 1.39 kg were given different levels of canola grain in the diet: 0, 8, and 16%. Weights and body condition scores were determined at the beginning, every 14 days and at the end of the experimental period. Animals were slaughtered to assess gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits. The statistical design used was completely randomized. The inclusion of canola grain showed a linear effect (0.723) for the width and height of ruminal papillae in the ventral region of the rumen. Intestinal villi and crypts showed a quadratic effect, with peaks of 0.62 µm and 0.43 µm, with the inclusion of 8 and 16%, respectively. When evaluating carcass traits, a decreasing linear effect was found for hot and cold carcass yield with 16% inclusion of canola. Canola grain can be used as an alternative in diets for finishing sheep up to 8% inclusion in the diet without affecting performance, ruminal and intestinal histometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits.

The objective of this study was to evaluate performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits in lambs finished on different levels of canola grain in the diet. Twenty-seven Santa Ines lambs with an average initial weight of 19.33 ± 1.39 kg were given different levels of canola grain in the diet: 0, 8, and 16%. Weights and body condition scores were determined at the beginning, every 14 days and at the end of the experimental period. Animals were slaughtered to assess gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits. The statistical design used was completely randomized. The inclusion of canola grain showed a linear effect (0.723) for the width and height of ruminal papillae in the ventral region of the rumen. Intestinal villi and crypts showed a quadratic effect, with peaks of 0.62 µm and 0.43 µm, with the inclusion of 8 and 16%, respectively. When evaluating carcass traits, a decreasing linear effect was found for hot and cold carcass yield with 16% inclusion of canola. Canola grain can be used as an alternative in diets for finishing sheep up to 8% inclusion in the diet without affecting performance, ruminal and intestinal histometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits.

Safety and bioactive potential of nanoparticles containing Cantaloupe melon (Cucumis melo L.) carotenoids in an experimental model of chronic inflammation.

The safety and bioactive potential of crude carotenoid extract from Cantaloupe melon nanoencapsulated in porcine gelatin (EPG) were evaluated in a chronic inflammatory experimental model. Animals were fed a high glycemic index and high glycemic load (HGLI) diet for 17 weeks and treated for ten days with 1) HGLI diet, 2) standard diet, 3) HGLI diet + crude carotenoid extract (CE) (12.5 mg/kg), and 4) HGLI diet + EPG (50 mg/kg). General toxicity signals were investigated, considering body weight, food intake, hematological, biochemical parameters, relative weight, morphology, and histopathology of organs. The biochemical parameters indicated the low toxicity of EPG. Acute hepatitis was observed in animals' livers, but CE and EPG groups presented improved tissue appearance. Chronic enteritis was observed in animals, with villi and intestinal glands preservation in the EPG group. The results suggest the safety and the bioactive effect of EPG, possibly related to its anti-inflammatory potential.

Tryptophan Attenuates the Effects of OTA on Intestinal Morphology and Local IgA/IgY Production in Broiler Chicks.

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin produced by species of Penicillium and Aspergillus that can contaminate products of plant origin that are used as animal feed. Through oral exposure, this mycotoxin primarily affects the chicken gastrointestinal system. The present study evaluated the intestinal toxic effects of OTA and the introduction of L-tryptophan to alleviate these effects in chickens. One-day-old chicks were exposed to a single OTA dose (1.4 mg/kg body weight-b.w.) and treated with or without four daily doses of L-tryptophan (100 mg/kg b.w.). Duodenal villus height/crypt depth, fecal immunoglobulin A/immunoglobulin Y (IgA/IgY) levels, and duodenal positive immunoglobulin A cells (IgA+) were evaluated by histology, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry, respectively, on the 14th day. There were significant changes in the duodenal villus height, crypt depth, and levels of fecal IgA/IgY and duodenal IgA+ cells (p < 0.05) in groups exposed to OTA. On the other hand, groups exposed to OTA and treated with L-tryptophan showed similar levels of villus height, IgA/IgY levels, and duodenal IgA+ cells to those of the control group (p > 0.05). In conclusion, exposure to a single dose of OTA orally induces changes in intestinal morphology, levels of IgA/IgY antibodies, and IgA+ cells. Thus, treatment with L-tryptophan may be a valid alternative means to reduce the harmful effects of OTA on the intestinal mucosa, which requires further study.

Does Enoxaparin treatment have any effects on the placenta in women with unexplained histories of habitual abortion? A case control study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: It is very common to offer low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) medications to women with unexplained habitual abortion, to increase the livebirth rate. Although no benefit from LMWH has been clearly demonstrated, examination of the effects of enoxaparin on placental structure is lacking. OBJECTIVE: To assess placental structural changes in pregnancies treated with enoxaparin, compared with controls. DESIGN AND SETTING: Case-control study in an obstetrics and gynecology unit of a tertiary-level university hospital in Turkey. METHODS: Forty patients who had had term pregnancies and live births but also histories of habitual abortion were recruited for this study. Placentas were sampled using a systematic random sampling method. Tissue samples were obtained, embedded and sectioned for routine histological analyses. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used. Surface area and length estimates from placental components were evaluated by using Image J. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were also assessed via immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the groups regarding maternal age, abortion rate, birth weight or gestational age. Comparison of the enoxaparin and control groups showed that there were no significant differences in terms of surface area and ratios of placental components. We found that Bcl-2 was generally expressed at high levels in the enoxaparin group, while there was no difference in terms of Ki-67 between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that enoxaparin did not show any significant effect on the placental structure of cases that had histories of habitual abortion.

Effects of Glutamine on the Mucosal Structure and Immune Cells in the Intestines of Broiler Chickens Challenged with Salmonella Enteritidis

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of glutamine (Gln) on the intestinal mucosal structure and immune cells of broilers infected with Salmonella Enteritidis. 160 1-d-old commercial Arbor Acres (AA) broilers were randomly selected to receive one of four treatments, each of which had 5 replicates. Each replicate consisted of 8 chicks subjected to a 21-d feeding trial. Group I served as the unchallenged (CON). All birds in groups II (SCC) - IV were challenged with 2.0 × 104 CFU/mL of S. Enteritidis. The birds in groups III and IV were treated with 0.5% and 1.0% Gln. The results showed that S. Enteritidis infection led to a decrease in the relative length and weight, villus height:crypt depth (VH:CD) of the jejunum and ileum, the number of intraepithelial lymphocyte cells, and number of goblet cells and an increase in the number of mast goblet cells compared with the measurements of these parameters in the CON group (p 0.05). In addition, the Gln groups had increased relative length and weight, VH:CD of the jejunum and ileum, numbers of intraepithelial lymphocyte cells, and numbers of goblet cells and decreased crypt depth in the jejunum and ileum and numbers of mast goblet cells compared with the measurements of these parameters in the SCC group (p 0.05). It was concluded that Gln added to broiler diets can effectively alleviate the intestinal mucosal damage caused by S. Enteritidis infection and improve its normal defense barrier function.(AU)

Effects of Glutamine on the Mucosal Structure and Immune Cells in the Intestines of Broiler Chickens Challenged with Salmonella Enteritidis

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of glutamine (Gln) on the intestinal mucosal structure and immune cells of broilers infected with Salmonella Enteritidis. 160 1-d-old commercial Arbor Acres (AA) broilers were randomly selected to receive one of four treatments, each of which had 5 replicates. Each replicate consisted of 8 chicks subjected to a 21-d feeding trial. Group I served as the unchallenged (CON). All birds in groups II (SCC) - IV were challenged with 2.0 × 104 CFU/mL of S. Enteritidis. The birds in groups III and IV were treated with 0.5% and 1.0% Gln. The results showed that S. Enteritidis infection led to a decrease in the relative length and weight, villus height:crypt depth (VH:CD) of the jejunum and ileum, the number of intraepithelial lymphocyte cells, and number of goblet cells and an increase in the number of mast goblet cells compared with the measurements of these parameters in the CON group (p 0.05). In addition, the Gln groups had increased relative length and weight, VH:CD of the jejunum and ileum, numbers of intraepithelial lymphocyte cells, and numbers of goblet cells and decreased crypt depth in the jejunum and ileum and numbers of mast goblet cells compared with the measurements of these parameters in the SCC group (p 0.05). It was concluded that Gln added to broiler diets can effectively alleviate the intestinal mucosal damage caused by S. Enteritidis infection and improve its normal defense barrier function.

Inclusion of kaolin in the feed of Japanese quails during the production phase / Inclusión de caolín en el alimento de codornices japonesas durante la fase de producción / Inclusão de caulim na alimentação de codornas japonesas durante a fase de produção

Abstract Background: Kaolin may improve quail performance by maintaining intestinal integrity and improving nutrient absorption. Objective: To evaluate the overall performance, egg quality, moisture, nitrogen and calcium content in the excreta, intestinal morphology and financial analysis of kaolin in Japanese quail feed during the production phase. Methods: A total of 192 Japanese quails, distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments and six repetitions with eight birds each, were used. Kaolin levels added to the diet were 0, 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5%. Results: Kaolin reduced feed consumption. Additionally, egg production, feed conversion and viability increased. Moisture, nitrogen and calcium in the excreta decreased. Height and width of the intestinal villi increased with increasing levels of kaolin in the diet. Kaolin had no effect on egg quality. Inclusion level of 1.5% kaolin allowed for greater economic gains. Conclusion: Kaolin improved performance, intestinal morphology, and reduced the moisture, nitrogen and calcium contents in the excreta. Egg quality remained unchanged with the addition of kaolin, and the best economic response resulted with the addition 1.5% kaolin.

Resumen Antecedentes: El caolín puede mejorar el rendimiento de la codorniz al mantener la integridad intestinal y una mayor absorción de nutrientes. Objetivo: Evaluar el rendimiento general, calidad del huevo, humedad, contenido de nitrógeno y calcio en la excreta, morfología intestinal, y realizar un análisis financiero de la inclusion de caolín en el alimento de codorniz japonesa durante la fase de producción. Métodos: Se utilizaron un total de 192 codornices japonesas, distribuidas en un diseño completamente al azar con cuatro tratamientos y seis repeticiones con ocho aves cada una. Los niveles de caolín agregado a la dieta fueron 0; 1,5; 3,0; y 4,5%. Resultados: El caolin redujo el consumo de alimento, hubo una mejora en el porcentaje de huevos producidos, la conversión del alimento y la viabilidad, Los niveles de humedad, nitrógeno y calcio en la excreta disminuyeron, la altura y el ancho de las vellosidades intestinales aumentaron con la inclusión de niveles crecientes de caolín. No hubo efecto sobre la calidad del huevo. Los niveles de inclusión de 1,5% de caolín permitieron mayores ganancias económicas. Conclusión: El caolín mejoró el rendimiento, la morfología intestinal y redujo los contenidos de humedad, nitrógeno y calcio en las excretas. La calidad de los huevos producidos se mantuvo sin cambios con la adición de diferentes niveles de caolín, y el mejor nivel de inclusion de caolín -según el análisis económico- fue de 1,5%.

Resumo Antecedentes: O caulim pode melhorar o desempenho de codornas mantendo a integridade intestinal e maior absorção de nutrientes. Objetivo: Avaliar o desempenho global, a qualidade do ovo, a umidade, o teor de nitrogênio e cálcio na excreta, a morfologia intestinal e a análise financeira do caulim em codornas japonesas durante a fase de produção. Métodos: Foram utilizadas 192 codornas japonesas, distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos e seis repetições, com oito aves cada. Os níveis de caulim adicionados à dieta foram 0; 1,5; 3,0; 4,5%. Resultados: O consumo de ração foi reduzido, houve melhora na porcentagem de ovos produzidos, conversão alimentar e viabilidade, os níveis de umidade, nitrogênio e cálcio nas excretas diminuíram, a altura e a largura das vilosidades intestinais aumentaram com a inclusão de níveis crescentes de caulim. Não houve efeito na qualidade do ovo. Os níveis de inclusão de 1,5% de caulim permitiram maiores ganhos econômicos. Conclusão: O caulim melhorou o desempenho, a morfologia intestinal e reduziu os teores de umidade, nitrogênio e cálcio na excreta. A qualidade dos ovos produzidos permaneceu inalterada com a adição de diferentes níveis de caulim, e o melhor nível de caulim, de acordo com a análise econômica, foi de 1,5% como aditivo para as codornas japonesas.