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This experiment was established to evaluate the influence of synthetic steroid hormone and aromatase inhibitor on performance, carcass characteristics, hormonal profile and gonadal structure of broiler chickens slaughtered at two different ages. A total of 360 Cobb Avian48 chicks were sexed and distributed randomly into three groups: Tam10 group; birds received Tamoxifen10mg (Tamfen 10 mg

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is one of the most dangerous and that pollute agricultural products, inducing a variety of toxic effects in humans and animals. The current study explored the protective effect of different concentrations of Aspergillus awamori (A. awamori) against OTA (0.3 mg/kg diet) induced renal and cardiac damage by exploring its mechanism of action in 60 New Zealand white male rabbits. Dietary supplementation of A. awamori at the selected doses of 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg diet, respectively, for 2 months significantly improved the rabbit’s growth performance; modulated the suppressed immune response and restored the altered hematological parameters; reduced the elevated levels of renal injury biomarkers such as urea, creatinine, and alkaline phosphatase; and increased serum total proteins concentrations. Moreover, it also declined enzymatic activities of cardiac injury biomarkers, including AST, LDH, and CK-MB. A. awamori alleviated OTA-induced degenerative and necrotic changes in the kidney and heart of rabbits. Interestingly, A. awamori upregulated Nrf2/OH-1 signaling pathway. Therefore enhanced TAC, CAT, and SOD enzyme activities and reduced OTA-induced oxidative and nitrosative stress by declining iNOS gene expression and consequently lowered MDA and NO levels. In addition to attenuating renal and cardiac inflammation via reducing IL-1β, TNF-α gene expressions in a dose-dependent response. In conclusion,this is the first report to pinpoint that dietary incorporation of A. awamori counteracted OTA-induced renal and cardiac damage by potentiating the rabbit’s antioxidant defense system through its potent antioxidant, free radical scavenging, and anti-inflammatory properties in a dose-dependent response. Based on our observations, A. awamori could be utilized as a natural protective agent against ochratoxicosis in rabbits. Graphical abstract

Probiotics are increasingly used in aquaculture to protect cultivated organisms from pathogens and improve water quality and feed efficiency. Shrimp are the most commonly cultivated aquaculture species worldwide. In this current review, we will explore the current challenges that impact shrimp aquaculture and summarize how probiotics are utilized to improve production. Probiotics are live microorganisms that are described as friendly bacteria or healthy bacteria supplemented to the shrimp gut through feeds. Probiotics have been demonstrated to increase gastrointestinal stability, secrete antibacterial compounds, compete with pathogens to prevent intestinal adhesion, compete for the nutrients required for pathogen survival and produce antitoxin effects. Probiotics can also modulate the immune system and control the allergic response of the body. Therefore, this review sheds light on the challenges faced in shrimp production as well as the different types of probiotics, their methods of application, their modes of action, their role in improving shrimp production, and their influence on water quality.

Fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4) was crucial to fatty acid uptake and intracellular transport. However, the mechanisms regulating yak (Bos grunniens) FABP4 transcription were not determined. In the current study, predominant expression levels of yak FABP4 were identified in subcutaneous fat and longissimus dorsi muscles by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions (qPCR). The CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha (CEBPα) and myocyte enhancer factor 2A (MEF2A), as transcriptional activator or repressor in the promoter region of FABP4, were confirmed by both site-directed mutagenesis experiment and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Additionally, molecular mechanisms of CEBPɑ regulation were analyzed to explore the transcriptional regulatory property of FABP4, which indicated that transcriptional activity of CEBPɑ depended on CCAAT/ enhancer binding protein beta (CEBPβ) transcription factor. Our results demonstrated that CEBPβ binding directly to the promoter region drove CEBPɑ transcription, improving yak FABP4 transcriptional activity in adipocytes. This mechanism expanded the information on the transcriptional regulatory network of adipogenesis.

This paper presented the results on the study of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) polymorphisms in Chinese black Tibetan sheep. Via DNA direct sequencing, four variations within 3' untranslated region (UTR) of IRS1, including g.9382T > G, g.9569T > G, g.9572C > T and g.9695A > C were detected in the black Tibetan sheep population. Based on the χ2 test, those four loci deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (p G locus, genotype of GG possessed advantage on body weight (p T locus, individuals with genotype of TT homozygous mutation decreased significantly on body weight, withers height, body length and chest circumference (p C locus, the body weight and chest circumference were also higher in AA carriers than in CC carriers (p < 0.05). Our results provided evidence that polymorphisms in IRS1 were associated with growth efficiency traits by quantitative genetic analysis, and may be used for marker-assisted selection in Chinese indigenous sheep.

Recent literature has demonstrated only adult avian palate, albeit there has been only limited focus on the postnatal development of the avian oropharyngeal cavity roof. Hence, the current investigation was designed to obtain the full ultrastructure postnatal description of the oropharyngeal roof during the five developmental age-stages of Coturnix coturnix by employing assessments using gross morphometric analysis and stero and scanning electron microscopy. The elongated triangular oropharyngeal roof has a spoonful rounded beak tip. The palate region is subdivided into the rostral ridged area and the choanal area. The palate has eight longitudinal palatine ridges (seven nonpapillated and one papillated median) and four transverse papillary rows (one slightly oblique row and three transverse papillary crests). The median palatine ridge continuous caudally and is then divided into three ridges: one median and two paramedian ridges (forming the lateral boundaries of the choanal field). The choanal field had three regions (rostral, middle, and caudal). The finger-like projection papillary region has five papillae. The choanal cleft has two unequal parts (rostral and caudal). The rostral nonpapillated short choanal part is subdivided by transverse papillary row into rostral narrow straight and caudal diamond portions. The caudal wide papillated choanal part is further divided by a second transverse crest into rostral long (encircled by interdigitated papillae) and caudal short wider part (not encircled by interdigitated papillae). The infundibular cleft is not bordered by any papillae, while the pharyngeal region has numerous papillae and openings of the salivary glands. Moreover, the morphometric analysis revealed a higher value with increasing age for all dimensions. Our findings indicated a higher degree of functional adaptation between the five developmental age stages of quail. Our observations suggest that adaptations such as these may increase the efficiency of food prehension with increasing age.

Background Fish farming is one of the most productive economies in the world. One of the essential goals in fish production is to minimize processing costs while maintaining and increasing the vital functions, weight and immunity of fish. Objective We conducted this study to explore nanoselenium (Nano‐Se) particles in various feeding schemes. Material and Method Nano‐Se particles incorporated in the basal diet at (0.5 mg/kg diet), and the fish was divided into six groups after adaptation as the follows: The first group was feed daily with a diet containing Nano‐Se (0.5 mg/kg diet); the second group was exposed to a feeding programme in which it has day feeding followed by day of starvation with a diet containing Nano‐Se (0.5 mg/kg diet); the third group was day feeding followed by 2 days of starvation; the fourth group served as a negative control group in which this group was continuous feeding with a basal diet without Nano‐Se; the fifth group was day feeding with the basal diet followed by a day of starvation; and the sixth group was day feeding with basal diet followed by 2 days of starvation. Result Our result revealed that Group 2 showed significant improvement in haematological parameters, red blood cells and haemoglobin with a substantial increase in total protein (p, Nanoselenium (Nano‐Se) supplementation with dietary regime that feeding the fish one day followed by one day starvation and soon has the tendency to potentiate the growth efficiency and immunity as well as improvement the growth hormone, insulin growth factors and pro‐inflammatory cytokines. These finding for the first time supported our hypothesis that confirm the Nano‐Se supplementation to the diet of fish with special dietary regime could be useful for aquatic life and economy in decreasing the feeding cost as well as increasing the fish health welfare and growth.

The widespread industrial use of nitrite in preservatives, colorants, and manufacturing rubber products and dyes increases the possibilities of organ toxicity. Lithium borate (LB) is known as an antioxidant and an oxidative stress reliever. Therefore, this study is aimed at examining the effect of LB on nitrite-induced hepatorenal dysfunction. Twenty-eight male Swiss mice were divided into four equal groups. Group 1, the control group, received saline. Group 2 received LB orally for 5 consecutive days at a dose of 15 mg/kg bw. Group 3, the nitrite group, received sodium nitrite (NaNO2) on Day 5 (60 mg/kg bw intraperitoneally). Group 4, the protective group (LB + NaNO2 group), received LB for 5 days and then a single dose of NaNO2 intraperitoneally on Day 5, the same as in Groups 2 and 3, respectively. Samples of blood and kidney were taken for serum analysis of hepatorenal biomarkers, levels of antioxidants and cytokines, and the expression of genes associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. NaNO2 intoxication increased markers of liver and kidney functions yet decreased reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase activities in blood. NaNO2 also increased the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 (IL-1β and IL-6). Pre-administration of LB protected mice from oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and the decrease in antioxidant enzyme activity. Moreover, LB protected mice from cytokine changes, which remained within normal levels. LB ameliorated the changes induced by NaNO2 on the mRNA of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nfr2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), transforming growth factor-beta 2 (TGF-β2), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) as determined using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). These results collectively demonstrate that LB ameliorated NaNO2-induced oxidative stress by controlling the oxidative stress biomarkers and the oxidant/antioxidant state through the involvement of the Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

The current study investigated how different fasting and refeeding regimes would impact Nile tilapia growth performance, histopathological examination, and gene expression of myostatin, myogenin, GH, IGF-1, and NPYa. Nile tilapia fish (n = 120) were randomly allocated into four groups, including the control group fed on a basal diet for 6 weeks (F6), group A starved for 1 week and then refed for 5 weeks (S1F5), group B starved for 2 weeks and then refed for 4 weeks (S2F4), while group C starved for 4 weeks and then refed for 2 weeks (S4F2). Fasting provoked a decrease in body weight coincided with more extended starvation periods. Also, it induced muscle and liver histological alterations; the severity was correlated with the length of fasting periods. Gene expression levels of GH, MSTN, MYOG, and NPYa were significantly increased, while IGF1 was markedly depressed in fasted fish compared to the control group. Interestingly, refeeding after well-planned short fasting period (S1F5) modulated the histopathological alterations. To some extent, these changes were restored after refeeding. Restored IGF-I and opposing fasting expression profiles of the genes mentioned above thus recovered weights almost like the control group and achieved satisfactory growth compensation. Conversely, refeeding following more extended fasting periods failed to restore body weight. In conclusion, refeeding after fasting can induce a compensatory response. Still, the restoration capacity is dependent on the length of fasting and refeeding periods through exhibiting differential morphological structure and expressions pattern for muscle and growth-related genes. Graphical abstract

Fish diseases have a "stress-related" nature, whereas fish exposure to stressors will increase their susceptibility to infections. It was also noted that fish exposure to biotic and abiotic stressors would exaggerate the disease signs, elicit high mortalities, and cause severe economic losses. Motile aeromonad septicemia (MAS) is a major bacterial disease affecting a variety of finfish species throughout the globe and is caused by Aeromonas hydrophila. Herein, we have evaluated the impacts of ammonia-N stress and/or Nile tilapia challenge with pathogenic A. hydrophila on the clinical picture of MAS disease. Clinical signs, postmortem lesions, histoarchitectural changes, and gene transcription analysis were studied. Fish experimentally infected with A. hydrophila were exophthalmic and showed darkened skin. Moreover, opercular hyperemia, petechial hemorrhages, and gill congestion alongside dermal ulcerations were noticed in ammonia-exposed fish. On the other side, fish exposed to both stressors exhibited exophthalmia, corneal opacity, severe dropsy, and hemorrhagic dermal ulcerations. At the tissue levels, the histopathological lesions were exaggerated in the fish group exposed to ammonia stress and challenged with A. hydrophila than fish group exposed to each one alone. At the molecular levels, the mRNA expression analysis reveals significant upregulation of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 beta, CXC chemokine, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in the kidney tissues of Nile tilapia exposed to ammonia and/or challenged with A. hydrophila. In a similar trend, the mRNA expression values of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), oxidative stress related genes (SOD and CAT) and apoptosis-related genes (caspase 3, BAX, and cytochrome P450) were also increased in the hepatic tissues of fish exposed to singular or dual stressors. Interestingly, the highest expression levels of the above-mentioned genes were found in the fish group exposed to both stressors. Taken together, these findings indicate the occurrence of severe inflammatory and apoptotic changes in fish exposed to ammonia and infected with A. hydrophila more than each one alone. In contrast, there was a significant decrease in the expression values of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione-S-transferase (GST) in stressed fish, suggesting the occurrence of oxidative stress. This study will be helpful to draw mechanistic insights into the exposure of fish to ammonia stress and infection with A. hydrophila.

Varieties of studies have been used to investigate the health benefits of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis); however, more research is needed to examine if its nano form may be utilized to treat or prevent several chronic diseases. So, we designed this study to explore the effect and the cellular intracellular mechanisms by which Arthrospira platensis Nanoparticles (NSP) alleviates the testicular injury induced by diabetes in male Wistar rats. Eighty Wistar male rats (n = 80) were randomly allocated into eight groups. Group 1 is untreated rats (control), Group 2 including STZ-induced diabetic rats with 65 mg/kg body weight STZ (STZ-diabetic), Group 3-5: including diabetic rats treated with NSP1, NSP2, and NSP3 at 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg body weight, respectively, once daily orally by the aid of gastric gavage for 12 consecutive weeks and groups 6-8 include normal rats received NSP (0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg body weight once daily orally. The identical volume of normal saline was injected into both control and diabetic rats. After 12 weeks of diabetes induction, the rats were killed. According to our findings, NSP administration to diabetic rats enhances the total body weight and the weight of testes and accessory glands; in addition, NSP significantly reduced nitric oxide and malondialdehyde in testicular tissue improved sperm parameters. Intriguingly, it raises testicular GSH and SOD activity by a significant amount (p 0.05). As well, Oral administration of NSP to diabetic rats resulted in a decrease in the blood glucose levels, HA1C, induced in the diabetic group, which overcame the diabetic complications NSP caused down-regulation of apoptotic genes with upregulation of BCL-2 mRNA expression (p 0.05) and prominent up-regulation of steroidogenesis genes expression level in testes in comparison to the diabetic rats which resulted in improving the decreased levels of testosterone hormone, FSH, and LH induced by diabetes. In the same way, our histopathological findings support our biochemical and molecular findings; in conclusion, NSP exerted a protective effect against reproductive dysfunction induced by diabetes not only through its high antioxidant and hypoglycemic action but also through its down-regulation of Apoptotic genes and up-regulation of steroidogenesis regulatory genes expression level in diabetic testes.

The plant growth regulator gibberellic acid (GA3) is widely used in agriculture in many countries. However, little is known about its danger to human health or its physiologic and biochemical pathways. Our study examined the effect of GA3 on liver and kidney function and the effect of quercetin on the hepatorenal toxicity induced by GA3 in four groups of male albino rats. For 4 weeks, the control group (CNT) received saline, the quercetin group (QR) received daily intraperitoneal injections of quercetin (50 mg/kg/BW) dissolved in saline, the gibberellic acid group (GA3) received GA3 (55 mg/kg/BW) via oral gavage, and the protective group (QR) was injected with quercetin and gavaged with GA3 in the same doses used in the QR and GA3 groups (50 mg/kg/BW +GA3 and 55 mg/kg/BW). GA3 induced liver and kidney injury, as shown by elevated serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GPT, GOT, and GGT) as well as increased levels of creatinine, urea, and uric acid. Hepatorenal toxicity was demonstrated by a significant increase in levels of serum and tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased antioxidant enzyme activity, such as catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), accompanied by a subsequent decrease in glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels in liver and kidney tissue of GA3-treated rats. Administration of quercetin (QR) significantly protected hepatorenal tissue against the toxic effect of GA3 through normalization of the hepatic and renal function markers. It also retrieved the antioxidant ability by modulating the hepatorenal toxic effect at the molecular level through upregulation of antiapoptotic genes and downregulation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TFG-β1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). Impairment of liver and kidney function was confirmed by histologic and immunohistochemical analyses. Pretreatment with quercetin was effective at attenuating histopathologic changes in hepatic and renal tissues by regulating the immunoexpression of caspase-3 and Bcl-2 to return them to more normal values. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The confirmed hepatorenal dysfunction caused by GA3 was ameliorated by quercetin administration. Moreover, quercetin demonstrated the potential to reverse hepatorenal dysfunction by regulating inflammatory and antioxidant properties, inhibiting the production of free radicals and inflammation-associated cytokines, and modulating antioxidants and antiapoptotic activity.

In this study, marine sediment (MS) was successfully used as a source of methanogenic bacteria for the anaerobic digestion (AD) of chicken manure (CM). Using MS showed high production in liquid and semi-solid conditions. Even in solid conditions, 169.3 mL/g volatile solids of chicken manure (VS-CM) was produced, despite the accumulation of ammonia (4.2 g NH3-N/kg CM). To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest methane production from CM alone, without pretreatment, in solid conditions (20%). Comparing MS to Ozouh sludge (excess activated sewage sludge) (OS), using OS under semi-solid conditions resulted in higher methane production, while using MS resulted in more ammonia tolerance (301 mL/gVS-CM at 8.58 g NH3-N/kg). Production optimization was carried out via a response surface methodology (RDM) model involving four independent variables (inoculum ratio, total solid content, NaCl concentration, and incubation time). Optimized methane production (324.36 mL/gVS-CM) was at a CM:MS ratio of 1:2.5 with no NaCl supplementation, 10% total solid content, and an incubation time of 45 days.

Hydroxyurea (HDU) is a widely used medication for various malignancies, thalassemia, and sickle cell anemia with reported side effects. The current study investigated HDU- induced hepatic injury and the protective potential of the royal jelly (RJ) against this hepatotoxic effect in the light of hepatic oxidative/ antioxidative status, pro-inflammatory cytokine, apoptosis signaling pathway, and histopathology. Sixty albino rats were used (n = 10/group) for 60 days: control, RJ (100 mg/kg body weight, orally), HDU (225 mg/kg body weight, orally), 2HDU (450 mg/kg body weight, orally), and HDU + RJ groups. HDU-treated rats showed significant elevation of liver function tests as aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase, as well as malondialdehyde and nitric oxide (oxidative biomarkers) and significant decreased hepatic antioxidant molecules (reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase), compared to a control group, that more pronounced in the high dose of HDU. In addition, HDU induced significant upregulation of TNF-α and the Caspase-3 apoptotic pathway. Moreover, the liver of HDU treated groups showed various hepatic lesions from mild to severe necrotic changes related to the HDU dose. However, administration of RJ with HDU improved liver function tests, liver histology, and hepatic oxidative/antioxidative status concerning HDU groups. Furthermore, oral RJ administration with HDU significantly lessens the immune-expression area % of TNF-α and Caspase-3. Thus, the royal jelly has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties against HDU- induced hepatic injury and could be, therefore, used as adjuvant therapy in patients with long-term HDU medication.

Recently, nanotechnology has been greatly developed to provide the aquaculture industry with new beneficial nanomaterials to improve the health and welfare of aquatic animals. Herein, an eight-week experiment was designed to examine the dietary impacts of sodium butyrate nanoparticles (SB-NPs) on the hematological profile, blood proteins, immunological indices, antioxidant capacity, and expression analysis of cytokines and antioxidant-related genes in Oreochromis niloticus. Fish were randomly assigned into 5 experimental groups (3 replicates per group) and were fed diets supplemented with 5 levels of SB-NPs as 0.0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg kg-1. The results revealed that supplementing diets with SB-NPs (1.0-2.0 mg kg-1) significantly elevated erythrocyte and leukocyte counts, hemoglobin concentrations, hematocrit values, total albumin, globulin, serum lysozyme activities, and total immunoglobulin M values compared with the control group. Notably, the highest levels of the parameters mentioned above were noticed in the group fed diet supplemented with 1.5 mg kg-1 SB-NPs. Moreover, dietary SB-NPs modulated the fish's antioxidant defense mechanisms, whereas there was a significant increase in hepatic superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase enzyme activities along with a significant decline in hepatic malondialdehyde concentrations in fish groups fed diets supplemented with SB-NPs (1.0-2.0 mg kg-1). A significant upregulation of antioxidant enzyme genes (gpx and sod), anti-inflammatory cytokine (il-10), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (il-1β and il-8) were noticed in liver tissues of SB-NPs groups (0.5-1.5 mg kg-1). The highest mRNA expression folds of the above genes were recorded in the fish group fed diet supplemented with 1.5 mg kg-1 SB-NPs. In this context, we hypothesized that dietary supplementation with SB-NPs can boost the antioxidant status and immunity of O. niloticus. However, further research studies are still recommended.

Zinc is an essential element for metabolism of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Nanomaterials have important benefits in aquaculture. The present study evaluated the effects of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using Ulva fasciata extract as an anti-fungal agent against Candida albicans (C. albicans) in vitro and in vivo in O. niloticus. A total of 252 apparent healthy O. niloticus (20 ± 0.457 g/fish) were randomly allocated into six groups: The 1

1. The effects of hypo- and hyper-thyroidism in mitigating or exacerbating the negative changes of chronic heat stress (HS) in broilers were investigated.2. Three-week-old broilers were distributed into six groups (

Zinc is one of the essential microelements involved in vital physiological and biological functions in the fish body. The study evaluated the growth performance, antioxidative capacity, and intestinal histomorphology of Grey Mullet (Liza ramada)-fed dietary zinc nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) at 0, 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg for the first time. The final weight and specific growth rate (SGR) of Grey Mullet-fed dietary ZnO-NPs at 20 and 40 mg/kg were meaningfully enhanced (p 0.05). Further, the weight gain (WG) was significantly higher in fish treated with ZnO-NPs than the control, and fish fed 20-40 mg/kg had the highest WG (p 0.05). The feed conversion ratio (FCR) was meaningfully reduced in fish fed 20-40 mg ZnO-NPs/kg (p 0.05). The histomorphology of the intestines revealed a significant improvement in villus height, villus width, and goblet cells by ZnO-NPs. The lysozyme activity, phagocytic activity, and phagocytic index showed higher levels in Grey Mullet-fed dietary ZnO-NPs at 20 mg/kg than fish fed 0, 10, and 40 mg/kg (p 0.05). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were markedly improved in Grey Mullet treated with ZnO-NPs compared with the control, and the group of fish treated with 20 mg/kg had the highest SOD and CAT (p 0.05). Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was significantly higher in fish fed 20-40 mg/kg ZnO-NPs than fish fed 0-10 mg/kg and fish fed 40 mg ZnO-NPs/kg showing the highest GPx value (p 0.05). The concentration of malondialdehyde was markedly lowered in Grey Mullet fed ZnO-NPs at varying levels (p 0.05). Based on the overall results, the regression analysis suggests that ZnO-NPs can be included at 24.61-35.5 mg/kg for the best performances of Grey Mullet.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is a spice utilized widely in India, China, and Southeast Asia as an aromatic stimulant, a food preservative, and coloring material. The commonly used names of turmeric are castor saffron, turmeric, and saffron root. Turmeric is a yellow-orange polyphenolic natural substance derived from C. longa rhizomes. It has been used to treat common inflammatory diseases, tumors, biliary diseases, anorexia, cough, topical wounds, diabetic injuries, liver disorders, rheumatism, and sinusitis. Extensive studies on the biological properties and pharmacological consequences of turmeric extracts have been conducted in recent years. Curcumin, the primary yellow biocomponent of turmeric, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antiprotozoal, antiviral, antifibrotic, immunomodulatory, and antifungal properties. Defense assessment tests showed that curcumin is tolerated well at high doses, without adverse effects. Thus, curcumin is a highly active biological material with the potential to treat different diseases in modern medicine. This review article focuses on curcumin's biological characteristics. The most popular methods for curcumin encapsulation are also discussed. Several effective techniques and approaches have been proposed for curcuminoid capsulation, including nanocomplexing, gelation, complex coacervation, electrospraying, and solvent-free pH-driven encapsulation. This review also highlights curcumin's chemical properties, allowing the readers to expand their perspectives on its use in the development of functional products with health-promoting properties. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

The present work was focused on the evaluation of morphological characteristics of the lingual caruncles and tongue with its papillae of Egyptian water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) using gross examination, light and scanning electron microscopy.The ventral surface of the sublingual caruncle carried a small opening of the duct of both monostomatic and mandibular salivary gland. The lingual mucosa of dorsal, lateral border and, to some extent, of ventral surface of apex had lingual papillae (filiform, fungiform), while the lingual mucosa of the lingual body especially at torus linguae had conical papillae, but circumvallate papillae observed at the caudal part of body and root. The dorsal surface of the apex and body carried numerous long, thread-like, with blunt apex, caudally directed filiform papillae that covered with keratinised scales without secondary papillae.The degree of keratinisation classified filiform papillae into rostral part of high keratinisation and caudal of less keratinisation. Conical papillary surface carried exfoliated epithelium with longitudinal groove on its rostral surface and carried secondary papillae. Fungiform papillae were scattered among filiform papillae on the dorsal and ventral surface of the apex and its convex surface had exfoliated keratinised epithelium. Circumvallate papillae were surrounded by circular deep groove bordered by vallum that carried small secondary papillae that ended into the primary groove. Taste buds of circumvallate papillae opened in the lateral lining epithelium facing the groove.Von Ebner's glands were observed in computed tomography under papillae especially toward the groove and their ducts open into the base of the groove.

Optimization of artificial reproduction is essential for minimizing genetic diversity, especially when fish are captured from their natural habitats and spawned in controlled conditions. In the present study, there was evaluation of the effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) with or without dopamine receptor antagonists such as domperidone (DOM) and metoclopramide (MET) on the spawning efficiency of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) reared in captivity. The control group was intramuscularly (IM) injected with 1 mL of sterile saline solution. The fish specimens of the other six groups were injected IM with GnRHa or hCG, or in combination with either DOM or MET. None of the specimens had ovulations in the control group. There was the longest latency period in specimens treated with only GnRHa or hCG. There were the largest egg mass weight, fecundity, and hatchability (%) in specimens of the GnRHa + MET group. These findings indicate that GnRHa or hCG combined with dopamine receptor antagonists such as DOM and MET resulted in a marked enhancement of ovulation rate and increased the egg mass, fecundity, and hatchability of the treated C. gariepinus, and the values when there was inclusion of the MET treatment exceeded those when there was treatment with DOM.

In agriculture, gibberellic acid (GA3) is commonly used with extreme dangers for public health. The current research evaluates the improving effects of n-acetyl cysteine (NAC, 150 mg/kg bw) co-administered with GA3 (55 mg/kg bw) mediated testicular injury. Twenty-four male albino rats were split into 4 groups: Negative control (CNT), NAC group, positive GA3 group and protective group, co-administered NAC plus GA3. On day 21, rats were anesthetised then euthanised by decapitation. Blood samples were collected; testicular samples were taken for semen analysis, serum chemistry, RNA extraction, histological and antioxidants markers examination. Our results revealed a significant decline p < .05 of catalase level and total antioxidant capacity. There was a substantial rise of MDA concentration in GA3-treated rats along with a considerable decrease of the antioxidant markers (SOD, GSH) and serum male reproductive hormones. In GA3-treated rats, an overexpression of the inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 with boost mRNA expression of nuclear factor-kappa (NFk B) were confirmed. There was downregulation of steroidogenesis genes and decrease in sperm quality and concentration with an increase in sperm abnormalities, all were reported in GA3-treated rats. NAC treatment significantly increased the antioxidant state, testicular function beside structural germ cell and seminiferous tubules histology accompanied by upsurge of steroidogenic mRNA expressions (P450scc and 3β-HSD) and downregulated the pro-inflammatory cytokines mRNA expression (TNF-α, IL-1β). These results confirm the antioxidant capability of NAC and afford robust evidence about the ameliorative effect of the NAC to attenuate the testicular injury induced by GA3 through modulation of the antioxidant defence system, steroidogenic and pro-inflammatory cytokines mRNA expression.

The extensive usage of gibberellic acid (GA3) in agriculture and plant growth is generally associated with enormous human and public health hazards. The present research assesses the impact of n-acetyl cysteine (NAC) on the hepatorenal injury persuaded by GA3 for this purpose, After two weeks of adaptation twenty-four rats allocated into four groups (6 rats/group) as follows: control group, supplied with saline only; n-acetyl cysteine (NAC) group, provided with 150 mg/kg/bw by stomach tube (orally) dissolved in saline; Positive GA3 group, received GA3 (55 mg/kg/bw) orally; Protective group received NAC (150 mg/kg/bw) and GA3 (55 mg/kg/bw) as in NAC and GA3 groups. Rats received their treatments for consecutive 3 weeks. On day 22, rats were anesthetized, then euthanized. Blood and tissue samples were obtained for biochemical, antioxidants markers analysis, gene expression, and histopathological examination. Our results revealed significant changes in serum AST, ALT, urea, uric acid, total protein, and albumin levels with a substantial rise of MDA and NO concentration in GA3 treated rats along with a considerable decrease of the GSH and overexpression of the inflammatory hepatic and renal cytokines (IL-10, TNF-α, NOS) and fibrotic gene expression TGF-β1, and α-SMA, with boost expression of nuclear factor-kappa (NFk B). NAC co-administered with GA3 significantly normalized the kidney and liver function and the antioxidant state, besides normal histological structure of both liver and kidney tissue and downregulated expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as, fibrogenic gene expression. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The current study confirmed that GA3 induced hepto-renal dysfunction that was ameliorated by NAC administration. Moreover, our findings confirmed the antioxidant capability of n-acetyl cysteine and afford robust evidence about the ameliorative effect of the n-acetyl cysteine to attenuate the hepatorenal injury induced by gibberellic acid through modulation of the antioxidant defense system fibrogenic, and pro-inflammatory cytokines expression.

The current investigation was aimed to clarify the correlations between the feeding strategy and lingual structure of the Egyptian fruit bat captured from the Egyptian east desert.The current work was performed on 12 adult Egyptian fruit bats that were observed grossly and with the help of the stereo, light, and scanning electron microscope. There were three types of the lingual papillae: one mechanical (filiform) and two gustatory (fungiform and circumvallate).There were seven subtypes of filiform papillae recognised on the seven lingual regions. There were few fungiform papillae distributed among the filiform papillae on the lingual tip and two lateral parts of apex and body while fungiform papillae were completely absent in the median part. There were three circumvallate papillae. The central bulb of circumvallate papillae was surrounded by one layer of two segmented circular pad. The lingual tip had cornflower-like and diamond-shaped filiform papillae.Histochemical results revealed that the lingual glands showed a stronger Alcian Blue (AB)-positive reaction and gave dark blue colour, while the reaction for the periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-stain was negative. Also, the glands exhibited a blue colour as an indication of positive AB reactivity with combined AB-PAS staining.

The present study represents the first trial to characterize the ultrastructural of five ages of Coturnix coturnix. Lingual nail had membrane that differ in number among five studied ages. Filiform papillary system had four caudally directed papillae types; small (apex, rostral, and median part of body in 1 day, body in 10 and 20 days), long (apex and rostral part of body in 10 days, tip and two lateral area in 20, 30, 40-days, lateral border in 1 and 10 days, two lateral area of body in 40 days), broad (median area of body in 20, 30, 40 days). Scales on the ventral surface of apex, mound. Lingual sulci on the apex and body without reaching tip in 10, 20, 30, 40-days while, in 1 day the body had ridge caudally. Three papillae on posterior part of lateral border of body. W-shape crest had papillae on its median part while, its lateral part had two giant papillae on each side. Dorsal giant papillae terminated caudally with six processes, while ventral papillae terminated caudally with three processes. The unique root appearance, at 1 day had four papillae while in 10-day, it had one papilla however in 20, 30, 40 days, it had T-shaped ridge. Mound had one longitudinal row on each side of cleft and two transverse papillary rows at its caudal border and additional row at 40-days. Our findings exposed unique structural and functional characterizations of lingual and laryngeal entrance that reflected with feeding behavior.

This study aimed to explore the effects of different feeding regimes on muscle metabolism and its association with meat quality of Tibetan sheep through correlation analysis of meat quality and differential metabolites using untargeted and targeted metabolomics. The untargeted metabolome was detected by UHPLC-QTOF-MS, and the targeted metabolome was detected by UHPLC-QQQ-MS (amino acids) and GC-MS (fatty acids). Based on the researched results, the nutritional quality of meat, including the content of protein and fat and the edible quality of meat, including tenderness, water holding capacity (WHC), texture, and flavor of Tibetan sheep were superior in the stall-feeding group (GBZ) than in the traditional grazing group (CBZ). In the GBZ group, the key upregulated metabolites and metabolic pathways were dominated by essential amino acids (EAAs) and amino acid metabolism as well as the key downregulated metabolites and metabolic pathways were dominated by polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and lipid metabolism. Correlation analysis showed that there was a significant correlation between the results of untargeted metabolomics and some phenotypic data, including shear force, cooking loss, drip loss, chewiness, elasticity, flavor, and the content of protein and fat. Taken together, stall-feeding would be appropriate for the production of Tibetan mutton, offering better mouthfeel and higher nutrition by altering the muscle metabolism and increasing the beneficial compound deposition in the muscle.

Marine-derived substances are known for their beneficial influences on aquatic animals&rsquo, performances and are recommended to improve intestinal health, immunity, and anti-oxidative status. The present study investigates the role of chitosan nanoparticles on the intestinal histo-morphometrical features in association with the health and immune response of Grey Mullet (Liza ramada). Chitosan nanoparticles are included in the diets at 0, 0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg and introduced to fish in a successive feeding trial for eight weeks. The final body weight (FBW), weight gain (WG), and specific growth rate (SGR) parameters are significantly increased while feed conversion ratio (FCR) decreases by chitosan nanoparticles compared to the control (p &lt, 0.05). The morphometric analysis of the intestines reveals a significant improvement in villus height, villus width, and the number of goblet cells in chitosan-treated groups in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, there is a positive correlation between the thickness of the enterocyte brush border and the chitosan dose, referring to an increasing absorptive activity. Histologically, the intestinal wall of Grey Mullet consists of four layers, mucosa, sub-mucosa, tunica muscularis (muscular layers), and serosa. The histological examination of the L. ramada intestine shows a normal histo-morphology. The epithelial layer of intestinal mucosa is thrown into elongated finger-like projections, the intestinal villi. The values of hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells (RBCs), total protein (TP), albumin, and globulin are significantly increased in fish fed 1, and 2 g/kg of chitosan nanoparticles compared to fish fed 0 and 0.5 g/kg (p &lt, 0.05). The highest levels of TP and albumin are observed in fish fed 1 g/kg diet (p &lt, 0.05). The lysozyme activity and phagocytic index are significantly enhanced by feeding chitosan nanoparticles at 0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg, whereas the phagocytic activity is improved in fish fed 1 and 2 g/kg (p &lt, 0.05). The highest lysozyme activity and phagocytic index are observed in fish fed 1 g/kg. SOD is significantly activated by feeding chitosan nanoparticles at 1 g/kg. Simultaneously, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) activities also are enhanced by feeding chitosan at 1 and 2 g/kg, compared to fish fed 0 and 0.5 g/kg (p &lt, 0.05). The highest GPx and CAT activities are observed in fish fed 1 g/kg (p &lt, 0.05). Conversely, the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels are decreased by feeding chitosan at 1 and 2 g/kg, with the lowest being in fish fed 1 g/kg (p &lt, 0.05). To summarize, the results elucidate that L. ramada fed dietary chitosan nanoparticles have a marked growth rate, immune response, and anti-oxidative response. These improvements are attributed to the potential role of chitosan nanoparticles in enhancing intestinal histo-morphometry and intestinal health. These results soundly support the possibility of using chitosan nanoparticles at 1&ndash, 2 g/kg as a feasible functional supplement for aquatic animals.

Metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) induce oxidative stress that can cause cellular toxicity. A natural antioxidant that can be used to protect tissues from oxidative stress is curcumin.In the present study, we evaluated the protective effect of curcumin nanoparticles (curcumin-NPs) against copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs)-mediated hepatorenal effects on behavioral performance, biochemical markers, antioxidants, inflammation, apoptosis, and histopathology in rats.Twenty Wistar adult male rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 5); Group Ι served as a control, group ΙΙ was orally gavaged with curcumin-NPs (100 mg/Kg), group ΙΙI orally received CuO-NPs (100 mg/kg), and group ΙV received both CuO-NPs and curcumin-NPs orally for 14 days.Behavioral performance, biochemical markers, antioxidants, inflammatory mediators, and apoptotic gene expression were evaluated in addition to histopathological and immunohistochemical examination.The results revealed that rats exposed to CuO-NPs suffered from behavioral alterations and hepatic and renal damages, which indicated by a marked elevation of serum biochemical parameters, including alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, urea, uric acid, and creatinine and a decline of total protein. Moreover, there was a significant downregulation in the expression of antioxidants genes, whereas inflammatory mediators expression were upregulated. The histopathological and immunohistochemical examination also corroborated these findings. In contrast, rats co-treated with curcumin-NPs exhibited better behavioral performance, biochemical profile, gene expression, histological architecture, and immunohistochemical staining results.These findings strongly indicated that curcumin-NPs exert significant protection against the behavioral and hepatorenal disorders induced by CuO-NPs toxicity by modulating oxidative stress regulators and gene expression.

The effects of tea tree essential oil (TTEO) and lemongrass essential oil (LGEO) with different stocking densities on the growth performance, biochemical markers, antioxidants, and immunity state of broiler chickens were studied. Birds were housed at stocking densities of 25, 30, 35, and 40 kg/m2. The treatments were, basal diet without any supplementation, the second and third groups were supplemented with 300 mg TTEO/kg feed, and 300 mg LGEO/kg feed, respectively. Results revealed that increasing stocking density from 25 to 40 kg/m2 significantly reduced body weight and daily weight gain at different ages. The phagocytic index and activity were significantly higher under the lower stocking density (25 kg/m2). Serum amyloid A (SAA), serum or liver transferrin (TRF), or C-reactive protein (CRP) were significant decreased when decreasing stocking density. Increasing stocking density from 25 to 40 kg/m2 resulted in a significant increase in the serum urea, creatinine, uric acid, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), malondialdehyde (MDA), and catalase (CAT) levels. However, there was a significant reduction in antioxidant enzyme activity, including glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), as stocking density increased. The supplementation of TTEO produced significantly higher body weight and daily weight gain followed by LGEO. Additionally, the mortality rates were reduced in TTEO (27.4%) and LGEO (25%) groups. TTEO or LGEO supplementation significantly improved meat constituents and cellular immunity and reduced serum total lipids, serum and meat cholesterol, and triglycerides, SAA, TRF, and CRP. For all these measured parameters, superior results were obtained when TTEO was used compared to LGEO. TTEO or LGEO supplementation also significantly reduced serum urea, creatinine, uric acid, and the enzymatic activities of LDH, ALT, AST, MDA, and CAT (but not GPx and SOD) in comparison to the control treatment. Overall, our results showed the superiority of TTEO over LGEO as a feed supplement in broiler diets. In conclusion, TTEO treatment offers a better solution for raising broiler chickens in high stocking density.

The study aimed to investigate the effect of Se sources and concentrations on performance, thyroid activity, antioxidant defense, and functional egg quality of Japanese quail. One hundred and twenty, 8-week-old birds were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 dietary treatments in 3 replicates (10 birds/replicate). The treatments contained inorganic sodium selenite (SS) at 0.2 mg/kg diet (SS1 = control) or 0.4 mg/kg diet (SS2) or selenomethionine (SM) at 0.2 mg/kg diet (SM1) or 0.4 mg/kg diet (SM2). Egg production (%) and feed intake were daily recorded, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) was calculated. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for glucose, thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes. Egg quality was determined in terms of Se content and concentrations of triglycerides, LDL, HDL, and cholesterol. Dietary supplementation of SM2 increased (P 0.05) egg production (%) and egg mass and decreased FCR compared to the other groups, which showed no significant differences (P 0.05) in between. It is the first study reporting that the eggs from the quail fed SM2 diet had lower concentrations (P 0.05) of triglycerides, LDL, and cholesterol than those fed SS. Feeding SM increased (P 0.05) blood glucose, T4, and T3 levels. Moreover, feeding SM increased the activity of GPX and SOD with a higher significance (P 0.05) for SM2 than SM1. In conclusion, no adverse effects from supplementation of SM up to 0.4 mg/kg were observed and could improve their performance, antioxidant defense, thyroid activity, and functional egg quality.

The water temperature of aquacultures is a primary factor of fish welfare, reproductive patterns, and immunity. To elucidate the molecular and biological processes of the temperature modulation of reproduction and immunity, female Nile tilapia (190 ± 10g) were allocated into five groups following acclimatization (150 females, three replicates, each n = 10). Each group was subjected to various temperatures (28 °C, 30 °C, 32 °C, 34 °C, and 37 °C), the group at 28 °C representing the control. Their serum levels of estradiol, cortisol, and vitellogenin were measured as well as serum triiodothyronine (T3) hormone, thyroxine (T4) hormone, and non-specific immunity (phagocytic and lysozyme activity). In addition, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR), vitellogenin gene receptor, and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) gene expression were evaluated. The serum levels of estradiol, cortisol, and vitellogenin markedly declined (P 0.05) in fish group at higher temperatures. In addition to T3, T4 was significantly affected (P 0.05) in the control group. The expressions of the STAR gene (steroidogenesis) and vitellogenin receptors were also considerably down-regulated. The histopathological photomicrograph of fish subjected to high water temperature revealed injuries in ovary tissues, demonstrating its harmful effects. The experimental results verified the possible role of water temperature as a main stressor on Nile tilapia' physiology through modulation of steroidogenesis-related gene expression and immunity.

High ambient temperature adversely influences poultry production. In the present study, gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) supplementation was used to alleviate the adverse changes due to heat stress (HS) in a broiler chicken strain (Ross 308). At 21 days of age, the birds were divided into four groups of 13. Two groups were housed under normal room temperature, one group was given orally 0.2 ml 0.9% physiological saline (CN) daily, the other group received 0.2 ml of 0.5% GABA solution orally (GN). A third group was exposed to environmental HS (33 ± 1 °C lasting for 2 weeks) + physiological saline (CH) and a fourth group was exposed to HS + GABA supplementation (GH). GABA supplementation during HS significantly reduced the birds' increased body temperature (p .0001) and increased their body weight gain (p .0001). This effect was associated with increases in the heat stress-induced reductions in jejunal villus length, crypt depth and mucous membrane thickness, and decreases in the vascular changes occurred due to HS. Additionally, GABA supplementation significantly modulated HS-induced changes in glucose facilitated transporter 2 (GLUT2), peptide transporter 1 (PEPT1) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) mRNA expression in the jejunal mucosa (p .0001). GABA supplementation also significantly elevated the triiodothyronine (T

Summary This study was conducted to investigate the mechanism of lead (Pb)-induced testicular toxicity. We examined the impact of Pb toxicity on 17β-oestradiol (E2), oestrogen receptors (ERs) and aromatase P450 which are key factors in spermatogenesis. Treatment of rats with Pb acetate (PbAc, 50 mg/L in drinking water) significantly reduced sperm count, motility, viability and increased sperm abnormalities along with degenerative changes in seminiferous tubules and Leydig cells. Additionally, administration of PbAc resulted in a significant reduction in serum testosterone, serum and testicular E2 as well as increased level of testicular testosterone. Pb also induced testicular oxidative stress as evidenced by a significant decrease in the activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase antioxidant enzymes, and increased malondialdehyde level in the testis. At the molecular level, Pb treatment downregulated the mRNA expression of P450 arom (Cyp19) and ERα. In conclusion, Pb induces testicular oxidative damage and disrupts spermatogenesis, at least in part, via downregulation of Cyp19 and ERα expression, which further decrease E2 level. These data, therefore, provide insight into the mechanism of lead-induced testicular toxicity.

The chick Ebf1 (early B-cell factor-1) gene is a member of a novel family of helix loop helix transcription factors. The expression profile, regulation and significance of this gene have been extensively studied in lymphatic, nervous, adipose and muscular tissues. However, cEbf1 expression, regulation and function in the feather of chick embryo have not yet been investigated. cEbf1 expression was first detected throughout the mesenchymal core of some few feather placodes (D7–D7.5). After feathers became mature and grew distally (D9 and D10), the mesenchymal expression of cEbf1 became confined to the caudal margin of the proximal half of all formed feather buds. Because this dynamic pattern of expression resembles that of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) protein and bone morphogenetic protein (Bmp4) plus the crucial role of these two major signals in feather development, we hypothesized that cEbf1 expression in the feather may be regulated by Shh and Bmp4. In a feather explant culture system, Shh signals are necessary to initiate and maintain cEbf1 expression in the posterior half of the feather bud, while Bmp4 is crucial for the initial cEbf1 expression in the anterior half of the feather bud. Inhibition of Shh, not only down-regulates cEbf1, but also changes the morphology of feather buds, which become irregular and fused. This is the first study to demonstrate that cEbf1 expression in the feather bud is under the control of Shh and Bmp4 signals and that expression may play a role in the normal development of feathers.