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The cryopreservation process induces alterations in cellular parameters and epigenetic patterns in bull sperm, which can be prevented by adding cryoprotectants in the freezing extenders. The purpose of this study was to compare the protective effects of two extenders based on soybean lecithin (SLE) and egg yolk (EYE) on epigenetic patterns and quality parameters of sperm such as motility parameters, mitochondrial membrane integrity, DNA fragmentation, viability, and apoptotic‐like changes of bull sperm after cryopreservation. Results demonstrated that cryopreservation significantly (p <.05) reduced the level of DNA global methylation, H3K9 histone acetylation, and H3K4 histone methylation in both frozen groups compared to the fresh sperm. Also, the level of H3K9 acetylation was lower in the frozen SLE group (21.2 ± 1.86) compared to EYE group (15.2 ± 1.86). In addition, the SLE frozen group had a higher percentage of viability, progressive motility, and linearity (LIN) in SLE frozen group compared to EYE frozen group. However, no difference was observed in mitochondrial membrane integrity and DNA fragmentation between SLE and EYE frozen groups. While soybean‐lecithin‐based extender showed some initial positive impacts of epigenetics and semen parameters, further investigations can provide useful information for better freezing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review delves into the powder derived from various non-vegetarian sources, including eggs, pork, chicken and fish, with the primary objective of enhancing convenience and portability, preserving nutrient content and addressing the prevalent challenge of storing non-vegetarian foods, typically high in moisture. The incorporation of such powders in different food products is explored, emphasizing their potential to serve as a versatile nutritional component. These powders contain an array of nutraceuticals, with fish being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, egg yolk abundant in ovalbumin and chicken providing essential amino acids, alongside a plethora of vitamins and minerals. Their application spans from protein powder formulations to baking products and as supplements to meet daily nutritional requirements. Moreover, the nutraceutical profile of these powders offers various health benefits, such as promoting brain and heart health, reducing the risk of anaemia and lowering bad cholesterol levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endocannabinoid-like bioactive lipid mediator belonging to the family of N-acylethanolamines, most abundantly found in peanuts and egg yolk. When the gastrointestinal (GI) effects of PEA are discussed, it must be pointed out that it affects intestinal motility but also modulates gut microbiota. This is due to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory features. Additionally, PEA has shown beneficial effects in several GI diseases, particularly irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel diseases, as various studies have shown, and it is important to emphasize its relative lack of toxicity, even at high dosages. Unfortunately, there is not enough endogenous PEA to treat disturbed gut homeostasis, even though it is produced in the GI tract in response to inflammatory stimuli, so exogenous intake is mandatory to achieve homeostasis. Intake of PEA could be through animal and/or vegetable food, but bearing in mind that a high dosage is needed to achieve a therapeutic effect, it must be compensated through dietary supplements. There are still open questions pending to be answered, so further studies investigating PEA's effects and mechanisms of action, especially in humans, are crucial to implementing PEA in everyday clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-soybean agglutinin (SBA) IgY was produced, and its potential to neutralize the haemagglutinating activity of SBA in vitro was tested. Thirty-five-week-old hens [treatment (n = 5) and control (n = 5)] were immunized with SBA or injected with saline 4 times every 15 days. Eggs were collected after the last immunization, and IgY was extracted using the polyethylene glycol (PEG) method. Serum anti-SBA IgY titres in immunized hens increased after the first immunization and reached a plateau between days 45 and 60. In contrast, specific IgY titres in the control group remained at basal levels throughout the evaluation. Average IgY titres were significantly higher in the treatment group on days 15, 30, 45, and 60. Total IgY content in the egg yolk extract was 38.7 ± 1.6 and 37.7 ± 1.5mg/ml for the treatment and control groups, respectively. The specific anti-SBA IgY titer detected in the egg yolk extract was significantly higher (p < 0.001) for hens in the treatment group compared to the control group, with OD450nm values of 0.98 ± 0.05 and 0.058 ± 0.02, respectively. The specificity of anti-SBA IgY was confirmed by the Western blotting, and the inhibition of SBA-induced haemagglutination in vitro was compared with D-galactose, a known molecule that binds to SBA and blocks its binding to erythrocytes. The inhibition of SBA-induced haemagglutination by the anti-SBA IgY reached 512 units of haemagglutination inhibition (UHI), compared to 8 or 256 UHI, respectively, when IgY from control chickens or D-galactose was used. Thus, anti-SBA IgY antibodies were efficiently produced in large quantities and effectively inhibited SBA-induced haemagglutination in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study investigated the efficacy of Conyza bonariensis, Commiphora africana, Senna obtusifolia, Warburgia ugandensis, Vernonia glabra, and Zanthoxylum usambarense against Bitis arietans venom (BAV), Naja ashei venom (NAV), and Naja subfulva venom (NSV). Methods: 40 extracts and fractions were prepared using n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. In vitro efficacy against snake venom phospholipase A2 (svPLA2) was determined in 96-well microtiter and agarose-egg yolk coagulation assays. in vivo efficacy against venom-induced cytotoxicity was determined using Artemia salina. Two commercial antivenoms were used for comparison. Results: The 96-well microtiter assay revealed poor svPLA2 inhibition of BAV by antivenom (range: 20.76% ± 13.29% to 51.29% ± 3.26%) but strong inhibition (>90%) by dichloromethane and hexane fractions of C. africana, hexane and ethyl acetate extracts and fraction of W. ugandensis, dichloromethane fraction of V. glabra, and the methanol extract of S. obtusifolia. The methanol extract and fraction of C. africana, and the hexane extract of Z. usambarense strongly inhibited (>90%) svPLA2 activity in NAV. The hexane and ethyl acetate fractions of V. glabra and the dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and methanol extracts of C. africana strongly inhibited (>90%) svPLA2 in NSV. The agarose egg yolk coagulation assay showed significant inhibition of BAV by the dichloromethane fraction of C. africana (EC50 = 3.51 ± 2.58 µg/mL), significant inhibition of NAV by the methanol fraction of C. africana (EC50 = 7.35 ± 1.800 µg/mL), and significant inhibition of NSV by the hexane extract of V. glabra (EC50 = 7.94 ± 1.50 µg/mL). All antivenoms were non-cytotoxic in A. salina but the methanol extract of C. africana and the hexane extracts of V. glabra and Z. usambarense were cytotoxic. The dichloromethane fraction of C. africana significantly neutralized BAV-induced cytotoxicity, the methanol fraction and extract of C. africana neutralized NAV-induced cytotoxicity, while the ethyl acetate extract of V. glabra significantly neutralized NSV-induced cytotoxicity. Glycosides, flavonoids, phenolics, and tannins were identified in the noncytotoxic extracts/fractions. Conclusion: These findings validate the local use of C. africana and V. glabra in snakebite but not C. bonariensis, S. obtusifolia, W. ugandensis, and Z. usambarense. Further work is needed to isolate pure compounds from the effective plants and identify their mechanisms of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) is a common pathogen that often causes diarrhea, loss of appetite, and even enteritis in domestic cats, affecting their growth and development, especially in kittens under 6 months of age. Oral passive immunization with chicken yolk antibody Y has been proved effective for the treatment of gastrointestinal pathogen infections due to its high specificity. In this study, C. jejuni was isolated from diarrheal cat feces, and the specific egg yolk antibody Y against C. jejuni was demonstrated to effectively inhibit its proliferation in vitro experiments. To evaluate the effect of anti-C. jejuni IgY, the mouse C. jejuni infection model was established and it was found that IgY could alleviate C. jejuni-induced clinical symptoms. Consistent with these results, the reduction of pro-inflammatory factors and intestinal colonization by C. jejuni in the IgY-treated groups, especially in the high dose group. We then evaluated the protective effect of IgY on young Ragdoll cats infected with C. jejuni. This specific antibody reduced the rate of feline diarrhea, protected the growth of young cats, inhibited systemic inflammatory hyperactivation, and increased fecal short-chain fatty acid concentrations. Notably, IgY may have a protective role by changing intestinal amino acid metabolism and affecting C. jejuni chemotaxis. Collectively, specific IgY is a promising therapeutic strategy for C. jejuniinduced cat diarrhea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was to investigate the effects of bacterial-enzyme complex on the production performance, egg quality, egg composition, and nutrient apparent metabolic rate in wheat-based laying hens. A total of 360 Jinghong laying hens were randomly divided into three groups with 10 replicates in each group and 12 laying hens in each replicate. The control group was fed with corn-soybean meal diet. The wheat group used 10% wheat to replace the same proportion of corn in the control group diet. The bacterial-enzyme complex group was supplemented with 0.02% bacterial-enzyme complex on the basis of wheat group diet. The pre-test period was three days, and the formal test period was 28 days. The results showed that there was no significant difference in production performance, egg quality, and egg composition among the control group, wheat group, and bacterial-enzyme complex group (P>0.05). The lutein content of egg yolk in wheat group decreased gradually with the increase of experiment time. On the 22nd, 25th, and 28th day, the lutein content of egg yolk in wheat group was significantly lower than that in control group (P<0.05), and the lutein content of egg yolk in bacterial-enzyme complex group was significantly higher than that in wheat group (P<0.05). The apparent metabolic rates of dry matter, crude protein, calcium, and phosphorus in wheat group were lower than those in control group (P>0.05), while the apparent metabolic rates of crude protein and phosphorus in bacterial-enzyme complex group laying hens were significantly higher than those in the control group and wheat group (P<0.05). The study indicates that using 10% wheat instead of corn can not affect egg quality and egg composition, but can reduce yolk color and lutein content. Bacterial-enzyme complex can increase yolk lutein content of wheat group, improve yolk color and improve nutrient apparent metabolic rate of laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment aimed to explore the effects of compound organic acidifiers on the production performance, egg quality, serum biochemical indexes, and economic benefits of laying hens in the late laying period. Five hundred and forty 72-week-old Jingfen No.2 laying hens with similar body condition were selected and randomly divided into three groups (CON group, L-COA group, and H-COA group), with six replicates in each group and 30 hens in each replicate. Each group was fed the same diet. The CON group drank tap water throughout the whole process. The L-COA group and H-COA group added 0.10% and 0.15% compound organic acidifiers to the drinking water, respectively. The test period was 42 days. The results showed that compared to the CON group, the egg production rate and egg qualified rate of the L-COA group were significantly increased (P<0.05), the egg production rate, average egg weight, and egg qualified rate of the H-COA group were significantly increased (P<0.05). The eggshell strength and egg yolk score of the L-COA group were significantly improved (P<0.05). The serum low-density lipoprotein content and alanine aminotransferase activity in the L-COA group and H-COA group were significantly reduced (P<0.05). The breeding profits of the L-COA group and H-COA group increased by 1.08% and 13.64%, respectively. The study indicates that adding compound organic acidifiers to the drinking water of laying hens during the late laying period has a positive effect on egg production efficiency, egg quality, serum biochemical indexes, and economic benefits, and the better effect is achieved when the added amount of compound organic acidifiers is 0.15%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The poultry industry suffers substantial economic losses under heat stress conditions, which detrimentally impact the productivity, physiology, and immune status of the birds. This study focused on the investigation of Bacillus licheniformis-fermented product supplementation on the growth and productivity of laying ducks experiencing heat stress. The results showed that B. licheniformis-fermented products could be a valuable dietary supplement for enhancing the growth performance and resilience of ducks under heat-stress conditions, possibly offering a safer and more sustainable alternative to antibiotics in poultry production. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of various concentrations of Bacillus licheniformis-fermented products (BLFP) on the growth and productivity of laying ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) subjected to heat stress during eight weeks of a feeding trial. A total of 150 one-day-old Brown Tsaiya ducks of both sexes were divided into five groups, with each group having three replicates and 10 ducks each for evaluation of growth performance. The treatment groups received dietary supplements of BLFP at levels of 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3%, along with a group receiving flavomycin (F) at 5 ppm, all over a 24-week period. The fermentation process in this study utilized a B. licheniformis strain (ATCC 12713) for the production of the spores through solid-state fermentation. The control group was given a basal diet consisting of yellow corn and soybean meal. The results showed that as compared to the flavomycin group, ducks in the 0.3% BLFP group had significantly higher body weights and better feed conversion rates. In addition, during the three weeks, the BLFP group showed higher feed consumption as compared to the control group. The jejunum villi length was significantly increased in the 0.2% BLPF group as compared to the control and flavomycin groups. This study also found that the flavomycin group had a significantly higher egg conversion rate, while the 0.1–0.3% BLFP groups had improved feed intake and the 0.3% group had significantly enhanced egg yolk color. Additionally, the 0.2% BLFP group showed substantial decreases in IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 levels in the liver as well as an uptick in the tight junction protein Occludin gene expression in the colon when compared to the control group. Furthermore, the expression of the heat shock protein 70 in the gut upregulated in the 0.1% and 0.2% BLFP groups. In conclusion, these observations demonstrate that dietary supplementation of 0.2% BLFP is an ideal concentration to increase gut morphology, alleviate inflammatory response, and promote gut integrity in heat-stressed laying ducks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emulsifiers, like egg yolk (EY), are necessary for the formation of mayonnaise, which is an oil-in-water type of colloid. This study aimed to assess the potential of defatted soybean powder treated with supercritical carbon dioxide (DSF) to enhance the quality of plant-based mayonnaise as plant-based alternatives gain popularity. This study involved the production of DSF and the comparison of its quality attributes to those of mayonnaise made with varying amounts of control soy flour (CSF), DSF, and EY. It was found that mayonnaise made with an increased quantity of DSF showed better emulsion stability, viscosity, and a smaller, more uniform particle size when compared with CSF mayonnaise. Additionally, DSF mayonnaise was generally rated higher in sensory evaluation. The addition of approximately 2% DSF positively influenced the emulsion and sensory properties of the vegan mayonnaise, indicating that DSF is a promising plant-based alternative emulsifier for the replacement of animal ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The utilization of mulberry branch fiber (MF), the largest by-product of the sericulture industry, is an important issue. Supplementation with MF as a dietary fiber for poultry may serve as a useful application. However, little is known about the effects of MF on liver lipid metabolism and egg yolk fatty acid composition of laying hens and their underlying mechanisms. In this study, we performed a multi-omics investigation to explore the variations in liver lipid metabolism, egg yolk fatty acid composition, gut microbiota, and the associations among them induced by dietary MF in laying hens. Results: Dietary MF had no harmful effects on the laying performance or egg quality in laying hens. The enzyme activities associated with lipid metabolism in the liver were altered by the addition of 5% MF, resulting in reduced liver fat accumulation. Furthermore, dietary 5% MF induced the variation in the fatty acid profiles of egg yolk, and increased the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content. We observed a significant reduction in the diversity of both gut bacteria and changes in their compositions after the addition of MF. Dietary MF significantly increased the abundance of genes involved in fatty acid biodegradation, and short-chain fatty acids biosynthesis in the gut microbiota of laying hens. The significant correlations were observed between the liver lipid metabolism enzyme activities of hepatic lipase, lipoprotein lipase, and total esterase with gut microbiota, including negative correlations with gut microbiota diversity, and multiple correlations with gut bacteria and viruses. Moreover, various correlations between the contents of PUFAs and monounsaturated fatty acids in egg yolk with the gut microbiota were obtained. Based on partial-least-squares path modeling integrated with the multi-omics datasets, we deduced the direct effects of liver enzyme activities and gut bacterial compositions on liver fat content and the roles of liver enzyme activities and gut bacterial diversity on egg yolk fatty acid composition. Conclusions: The results indicate that dietary MF is beneficial to laying hens as it reduces the liver fat and improves egg yolk fatty acid composition through the enterohepatic axis. CByDGCz_6LcoMs-GQqtpHG Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colisepticaemia caused by avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is a challenging disease due to its high economic importance in poultry, dubious pathogenesis and potential link with zoonosis and food safety. The existing in vitro studies can't define hallmark traits of APEC isolates, suggesting a paradigm shift towards host response to understand pathogenesis. This study investigated the comprehensive pathological and microbial progression of colisepticaemia, and transmission of E. coli into eggs using novel tools. In total 48 hens were allocated into three groups and were inoculated intratracheally with ilux2-E. coli PA14/17480/5-/ovary (bioluminescent strain), E. coli PA14/17480/5-/ovary or phosphate buffered saline. Infection with both strains led to typical clinical signs and lesions of colibacillosis as in field outbreaks. Based on lung histopathology, colisepticaemia progression was divided into four disease stages as: stage I (1–3 days post infection (dpi)), stage II (6 dpi), stage III (9 dpi) and stage IV (16 dpi) that were histologically characterized by predominance of heterophils, mixed cells, pyogranuloma, and convalescence, respectively. As disease progressed, bacterial colonization in host organs also decreased, revealed by the quantification of bacterial bioluminescence, bacteriology, and quantitative immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and bacteria re-isolation showed that E. coli colonized the reproductive tract of infected hens and reached to egg yolk and albumen. In conclusion, the study provides novel insights into the pathogenesis of colisepticemia by characterizing microbial and pathological changes at different disease stages, and of the bacteria transmission to table eggs, which have serious consequences on poultry health and food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chicken egg, an excellent natural source of proteins, has been an overlooked native biomaterial with remarkable physicochemical, structural, and biological properties. Recently, with significant advances in biomedical engineering, particularly in the development of 3D in vitro platforms, chicken egg materials have increasingly been investigated as biomaterials due to their distinct advantages such as their low cost, availability, easy handling, gelling ability, bioactivity, and provision of a developmentally stimulating environment for cells. In addition, the chicken egg and its by-products can improve tissue engraftment and stimulate angiogenesis, making it particularly attractive for wound healing and tissue engineering applications. Evidence suggests that the egg white (EW), egg yolk (EY), and eggshell membrane (ESM) are great biomaterial candidates for tissue engineering, as their protein composition resembles mammalian extracellular matrix proteins, ideal for cellular attachment, cellular differentiation, proliferation, and survivability. Moreover, eggshell (ES) is considered an excellent calcium resource for generating hydroxyapatite (HA), making it a promising biomaterial for bone regeneration. This review will provide researchers with a concise yet comprehensive understanding of the chicken egg structure, composition, and associated bioactive molecules in each component and introduce up-to-date tissue engineering applications of chicken eggs as biomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Quail eggs have been reported as a nutraceutical in developed and developing countries. However, there are few documented reports on the effect of quail egg yolk oil on hypertension. In recent times, authors have identified anti-hypertensive compounds present in quail eggs. As such, this project was conducted to investigate the anti-hypertensive effect and toxicity levels of quail egg yolk oil. It was observed that quail egg yolk oil extracted using gentle heating and n-hexane reduced the blood pressure of Sprague Dawley rats. The toxicity studies showed no clinical or subclinical diseases at 28 days. This study demonstrated the anti-hypertensive effect of quail egg yolk oil, which can be used as an adjuvant therapy in eye drops or as a cosmetic agent. Oils from animal sources have been used for centuries in the management of diseases. This research was conducted to screen the ex vivo and in vivo toxicity of quail egg yolk oil (QEYO) extracts and assess their effects on the management of hypertension in rats. QEYO was extracted using gentle heating (GH) and n-hexane (NHN). The extracts were subjected to toxicity testing using the hen's egg test on chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) and bovine corneal histology test. Acute and sub-chronic toxicity (28 days) were evaluated in rats. Hypertension was induced in rats by administering 80 mg/kg of Nω-L-Arginine Methyl Ester (L-NAME) per day for 28 days. Treatments commenced on the 14th day; Nifedipine at 30 mg/kg and 1 mL of distilled water were administered as positive and negative controls. Blood pressure (BP), lipid profiles, and oxidative stress markers were quantified. No irritation was observed using the HET-CAM test in the egg treated with both extracts. Bovine corneal histology showed no lesions in all treated groups. No signs of toxicity were observed in either acute or sub-chronic toxicity studies. A significant reduction in blood pressure was observed in rats treated with the extracts (p < 0.05). Changes in total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), low-density lipoproteins (LDLPs), and high-density lipoproteins (HDLPs) were not significant compared to the control (p > 0.05). Oxidative stress markers (SOD and CAT) increased significantly in the treated groups compared to the control, while the malondialdehyde levels decreased (p < 0.05). QEYO was safe in both ex vivo and in vivo studies and can be said to have the potential to lower blood pressure as well as cardio-protective effects in hypertensive rats. This research provides evidence based on which QEYO could be used safely as an adjuvant therapy in eye drops and cosmetics and can be considered an effective choice for preventing hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) has lately been a threat to maize and other crops in the graminaceous family in most parts of the world. For a long time, this devastating pest has been a resident of the Western Hemisphere. However, in 2018, it was reported in Africa, and subsequently in Asia in 2019. This study aimed to understand the reproductive system of virgin and mated female fall armyworm to be able to envisage its population trend and hence suggest how to contain its infection. The virgin and copulated females were dissected to observe their reproductive structures. There was no significant difference in the number of ovarioles in each ovary due to the mating of Spodoptera frugiperda, although ovarian development was affected. Notably, the ovaries enlarged in the early stages after adult emergence, and there was more yolk deposit present in mated females than virgin females. It was found that ovarian advancement begins in the pupal stage. It was also noted that the beginning of ovarian development happens 4–5 days after the pupation of the female. At this stage, the ovarioles begin to develop. However, no eggs or yolk deposition were observed. Stage six, which is the final stage of oviposition, occurs 20 and 24 days after female adult emergence. After mating, oviposition occurs between 11 and 13 days and ends with their mortality. This study goes a long way in understanding the population trend of fall armyworm and hence determining the best stage for control. The results will also be useful to the researchers who are currently working on this insect in laboratories around the world to sustain the fall armyworm populations for further experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal antibodies in egg yolks provide the initial protection for embryos after hatching. Newcastle disease virus is one of the viruses that causes mortality in chickens of all ages. This study aimed to analyze the Newcastle disease virus titer in the egg yolks of IPB-D2 chickens (Institut Pertanian Bogor-D2). Seventy-two eggs were collected from 12 IPB-D2 chickens with two repetitions over three periods, using a hemagglutination test for Newcastle disease titer. The hemagglutination test results were analyzed using geometric mean titers and descriptive analysis. The protection levels for Period I were 55%, Period II was 71%, and Period III was 70%, respectively. The egg weight was 40.11±3.61 grams, the hatch weight was 32.12±4.62 grams, and the body weight at four weeks was 288.2±59.42 grams, respectively. The phenotypic correlation of Newcastle antibody in egg yolks with egg weight and hatch weight showed significant differences but there was not statistically significant with body weight at four weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: A ready supply of eggs has been provided for consumers throughout the years at a relatively low price sufficient to meet consumer demand. In response to the cage-free trend, adequate studies regarding the difference between the cage system and alternative systems are necessary due to the growing concerns about food safety and animal welfare, especially animal living conditions. Along with welfare concerns, there is rising consumer consciousness about the environmental sustainability of animal production. From this perspective, increasing persistency in lay and stability in egg quality would generate environmental and economic benefits. The present study investigated the effects of the enriched cage and free-range systems on the egg yolk nutrient composition at the late phase of the laying cycle (from the 68th week to the 74th week of age). The results of the present study indicated that the egg yolk lipid profile in terms of the total lipid, cholesterol, and fatty acid composition was not modified by the increasing age of laying hens. On the other hand, the results confirmed that the free-range system may improve the nutritional yolk fatty acid profile and its positive impact on human health, which can be a convincing support for the trend of "cage-free" eggs. In recent years, the free-range system for laying hens has increased, driven by societal sensitivity to animal welfare. This study aimed to comparatively analyze the total lipid, cholesterol, and fatty acid composition of egg yolks of late-age laying hens reared in enriched cages (C) and the free-range system (FR). Eggs were collected from Lohmann Brown Classic hens at the 68th, 70th, 72nd, and 74th week of age. The concentrations of total lipids and cholesterol were not affected (p > 0.05) by either factor. Egg yolk from the FR group showed lower (p < 0.01) monounsaturated fatty acids and higher (p < 0.01) polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) compared with that of the C group. From a nutritional point of view, the PUFA n-6/n-3 and the PUFA/SFA ratios of egg yolk from the FR group were favorably lower and higher (p < 0.01) compared with the C one. Conversely, hen age did not affect (p > 0.05) the fatty acid composition of yolks. Interactions between factors were found for total n-3 and n-6 PUFA and the n-6/n-3 ratio (p < 0.01), as well as the thrombogenic index (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the results confirmed that the free-range system may improve the nutritional yolk fatty acid profile and its positive impact on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mortality of chicken embryos and first-week chickens was reported in a commercial incubator company in Costa Rica. Six 1-day-old Cobb chickens and twenty-four embryonated chicken eggs were examined in the Laboratory of Avian Pathology and the Laboratory of Bacteriology of the National University of Costa Rica. Twelve dead-in-shell embryos showed maceration and were immersed in a putrid, turbid, slightly thick brown liquid. Additionally, the other 12 embryonated eggs had milky yellow-orange content. The livers of those embryos had congestion, haemorrhages and multifocal cream foci of necrosis. Granulocytic infiltration was observed in the bursa of Fabricius, myocardium, liver, lung and kidney. Livers and egg yolks from six embryonated chickens and all 1-day-old chickens were aseptically collected and cultured. In addition, tissues from six better conserved embryos and all 1-day-old chickens were fixed in buffered formalin and embedded in paraffin. Biochemical and molecular tests identified Comamonas testosteroni as the cause of the early, middle and late embryo mortality. As all the eggshells from the sampled embryonated eggs were dirty with soiled a fecal matter, contamination after manipulating the eggs was considered the source of infection. C. testosteroni is an environmental microorganism that has rarely been reported to cause human disease. To our knowledge, this is the first report of C. testosteroni causing mortality in a hatchery. Cleaning and disinfection using ozone were implemented in the hatchery to eliminate the embryo mortality associated with C. testosteroni. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Probiotics are microorganisms that are non-pathogenic and beneficial for health when used in certain doses through the mechanism of increasing the function of the small intestine in chickens. This study aims to analyze the effect of adding the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum IIA-1A5 to feed to improve the body's immune system, production performance, and egg quality in laying hens aged 49‒52 weeks. The experimental design used was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The treatment for adding the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum IIA-1A5 to feed consists of four treatment levels, namely P0 (without probiotics), P1 (feed + 8.1 x 106 cfu/g or 1 g/kg feed), P2 (feed + 2.43 x 107 cfu/g or 3 g/kg feed), and P3 (feed + 4.86 x 107 cfu/g or 6 g/kg feed). The results of the study showed that administering the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum IIA-1A5 in feed could reduce Escherichia coli bacteria in the small intestine of laying hens. Giving the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum also had a significant effect (P<0.05) on feed consumption and egg yolk color. The addition of the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum IIA-1A5 in feed can increase animal resistance, performance, and quality of chicken eggs. The use of probiotics with a treatment level of 1 g kg-1 feed (8.1 x 106 cfu g-1) showed the best results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In order to find an alternative cryoprotectant for canine semen, different cryoprotectants, as dimethyl sulphoxide and ethylene glycol, dimethyle formamide either alone or in combination with glycerol have been evaluated on pooled semen of different breeds with different opinions. Methods: In the current study the effect of glycerol, DMF and their combination in Tris-citric acid-fructose egg yolk plasma extender on motility, viability, plasma membrane integrity (PMI), acrosome integrity (AI), inner mitochondrial membrane potential (IMMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant enzymes in frozen-thaw semen of pug breed was compared. Result: Values for motility, viability, (PMI), AI were significantly (p<0.05) high in TCFEYP-G compared to TCFEYP-DMF and TCFEYPG+ DMF at post thaw. However, HIMMP and MIMMP/MDA were non-significantly (P>0.05) high and low in TCFEYP-G compared to TCFEYP-DMF and TCFEYP-G + DMF at post thaw, respectively. MDA concentration was significantly (p<0.05) low in TCFEYP-G compared to TCFEYP-DMF and TCFEYP-G + TCFEYP-DMF extenders. However, H2O2, scavenging capacity of spermatozoa, cryopreserved in TCFEYP-G was significantly (p<0.05) higher than in TCFEYP-DMF and TCFEYP-G + TCFEYP-DMF. However, there was no significant (p>0.05) difference in superoxide free radical scavenging activity and nitrite concentration of spermatozoa among the three extenders. Activity of GPX, SOD and Catalase was also significantly (p<0.05) higher in TCFEYP-G compared to TCFEYP-DMF and TCFEYP-G+DMF. However, values were reverse for GRE activity. This study concludes that glycerol is a healthier cryoprotectant to protect canine spermatozoa from cryo-injury during freezing-thawing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a collection of tables containing phrases in an unidentified language. The phrases appear to discuss various aspects of traditional healing practices, such as making medicine, using eggs, and rubbing. The document also includes translations and explanations of the phrases in English. However, without further context or information, it is difficult to fully understand the meaning and significance of the phrases within their cultural and linguistic context. [Extracted from the article]

This study aims to determine the effect of adding duck egg yolk to skim milk-fructose extender on the motility and viability of Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata) spermatozoa at 5°C storage. Muscovy duck ejaculate was divided into four equal portions. The first portion was for the control group, which was extended in skim milk-fructose, while the second, third, and fourth portions were for treatment groups T1, T2, and T3, which were extended in skim milk-fructose with the addition of 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5% (v/v) duck egg yolk. Sperm motility and viability were evaluated every two hours until the motility percentage reached 40%. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Duncan’s test. The results showed that spermatozoa motility and viability were higher (p <0.05) in groups T1, T2, and T3 compared to those of group T0 after 10 hours storage at 5°C. The highest percentage of spermatozoa motility and viability was in the T2 group compared to other groups (p <0.05). It could be concluded that the Muscovy duck semen extended in skim milk-fructose containing 2.5 to 7.5% (v/v) duck egg yolk met the requirements for artificial insemination when stored for up to 10 hours at 5°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of SO (shrimp oil) at various levels (5, 10, and 15%) on the stability of mayonnaise was investigated. Droplet size (d32 and d43), polydispersity index, and microstructure results showed an upsurge in droplet sizes with augmenting level of SO in mayonnaise (5 to 15%) (p < 0.05). SO imparted a bright orange color to the mayonnaise as evidenced by increased a* and b* values with lower L* values (p < 0.05). Moreover, the impact of a fish myofibrillar protein (FMP) substitution for egg yolk (0, 25, 50, 75%) in mayonnaise containing SO (5% and 10%) was also studied. Increasing the level of FMP substitution in SO-added mayonnaise showed a dilution effect and reduced a* and b* values (p < 0.05). In addition, excessive FMP substitution up to 75% drastically increased centrifugal and thermal creaming indices, indicating lowered stability (p < 0.05). Nevertheless, with the augmenting FMP substitutions, the viscosity, texture, and rheological properties in mayonnaise became lower (p < 0.05). However, there were no differences in overall acceptability scores between 5% SO-added mayonnaise with 25% FMP substitution (SO5:FMP25) and 5% SO-added mayonnaise without FMP substitution (SO5:FMP0) (p > 0.05). A confocal laser scanning microscopic (CLSM) study revealed a smaller droplet and less aggregation in the SO5:FMP0 sample, compared to SO5:FMP25. The incorporation of SO and FMP substitution yielded the resulting mayonnaise, which met the requirements of a healthy food since SO is rich in PUFA and the replacement of egg yolk by FMP can contribute several health benefits. The incorporation of SO as well as FMP as substitution for egg yolk therefore has potential in the development of functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementing Hermetia illucens larval meal in pheasant diets on selected hatchability parameters and physicochemical properties of eggs. A total of 72 pheasants (63 females and 9 males) were randomly allocated to three groups: BSFL0, a basal diet without H. illucens, and BSFL10 and BSFL20 diets, with 100 and 200 g/kg H. illucens larval meal, respectively. The evaluation of selected egg production indices was based on 1200 properly developed eggs. The BSFL20 group exhibited the highest number of eggs and a reduced percentage of culled eggs compared to the control treatment. The lowest albumen height was determined in BSFL0, and the highest in BSFL20. In addition, the highest Haugh index values were also recorded for the BSFL20 group. Tendencies towards improved survival of chicks were observed up to day 7 and day 14 after hatching, connecting with the incrementing BSFL dose. Egg yolk dry matter and crude protein levels were increased in the BSFL20 group, accompanied by tendencies towards elevated crude ash and reduced cholesterol levels. A significant increase in C12:0 and C14:0 fatty acids in both experimental groups, and a decrease in C18:0 fatty acid levels in the BSFL20 group were observed. A reduction in C16:1 and monounsaturated fatty acid levels was noted in the experimental groups. The atherogenicity index was higher in the BSFL20 group, while the n-6/n-3 ratio was lower compared to the control. In conclusion, H. illucens can be implemented in pheasant diets with beneficial effects on the number of eggs and positive trends for selected survival indices. Furthermore, H. illucens full-fat meal positively modified the chemical composition of the eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of supplementing glucose, glycine, or a combination of both in Ringer’s lactate egg yolk base extender to preserve the quality of semen from local Indonesian chickens has not been previously investigated. This study aimed to examine the potential of glucose and glycine on chicken semen stored at 5°C for 120 hours. In this study, five local roosters were used. The parameters under observation included semen volume, odor, pH levels, consistency, color, mass movement, concentration, motility, viability, abnormality, plasma membrane integrity, chromatin degeneration, and acrosomal cap integrity. This study was conducted using a completely randomized design (CRD) with four treatments groups and 10 replication, i.e. T1 (control without supplementation), T2 (50 mM glucose), T3 (60 mM glycine), and T4 (a combination of 50 mM glucose and 60 mM glycine), respectively. In result, semen volume was 0.54 ± 0.17 mL/ejaculate, a milky white color, distinctive odor, thick consistency, good mass movement (++/+++), pH of 7.37 ± 0.23, motility of 91.50 ± 2.42%, plasma membrane integrity of 96.85 ± 0.96%, abnormality at 2.88 ± 0.77%, the concentration of 3.04 ± 0.3 billion/mL, and viability of 96.47 ± 1.71%. Following storage at 5°C for 120 hours, the motility, viability, abnormality, and acrosomal cap integrity of local chicken spermatozoa significantly different (p < 0.05) between T3 and T4 compared to T1 and T2 groups. Moreover, the integrity of the plasma membrane and chromatin degeneration in treatment T3 significantly different (p < 0.05) from T1, T2, and T4 groups. In conclusion, local chickens exhibited fair quality fresh semen both in macroscopic and microscopic evaluations. Furthermore, the combination of 60 mM glycine and 50 mM glucose into local chicken semen stored at 5°C for 120 hours effectively preserved motility and viability, minimized abnormality, maintained plasma membrane integrity, minimized chromatin degeneration, and retained acrosomal integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Due to their relevant ecological position and well-studied biology, sea urchins are reference organisms for ocean acidification studies, at both within- and trans-generational levels. In this study, we examined gamete quality in specimens exposed to future predicted (-0.4 units) pH conditions during gametogenesis. Methods: Egg physical characteristics, biochemical composition, and fatty acid profiles were assessed after two and six months of exposure, while sperm viability and velocity were analyzed after six months of exposure. Considering the documented intraspecific variability in response to ocean acidification, this study involved two populations of Paracentrotus lividus. One population was sampled from the highly variable lagoon of Venice (Site 1), while the other was obtained from a coastal area (Site 2) characterized by more stable environmental conditions and facing minimal anthropogenic stress. Results: A different response was highlighted in the two sites. Noteworthy trends emerged, especially in the fatty acid profile and sperm traits. Although adults were fed the same diet, Site 1 eggs contained more high-energetic fatty acids than Site 2, potentially boosting the survival odds for the next generation. Moreover, Site 1 sperms displayed higher viability but slower motility compared to those from Site 2. Within sites, a significant difference between time points and a change in the fitness strategy of sea urchin females emerged when comparing eggs spawned after two and six months of exposure to reduced pH. The effects of time and exposure pH are more pronounced in animals from Site 1, suggesting a higher adaptability of this population rather than negative effects of ocean acidification. Discussion: Overall, our findings suggest that sea urchins have the potential to acclimate to reduced pH and to produce gametes of the same quality as controls held at the currently natural pH. Our findings emphasize the relevance of combining investigations of gamete quality characteristics, particularly egg biochemistry and fatty acid composition, and considering site variability to fully understand the transgenerational response potential of sea urchins to ocean acidification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: The authenticity of eggs in relation to the housing system of laying hens is susceptible to food fraud due to the potential for egg mislabeling. (2) Methods: A total of 4188 egg yolks, obtained from four different breeds of laying hens housed in colony cage, barn, free-range, and organic systems, were analyzed using 1H NMR spectroscopy. The data of the resulting 1H NMR spectra were used for different machine learning methods to build classification models for the four housing systems. (3) Results: The comparison of the seven computed models showed that the support vector machine (SVM) model gave the best results with a cross-validation accuracy of 98.5%. The test of classification models with eggs from supermarkets showed that only a maximum of 62.8% of samples were classified according to the housing system labeled on the eggs. (4) Conclusion: The classification models developed in this study included the largest sample size compared to the literature. The SVM model is most suitable for evaluating 1H NMR data in terms of the hen housing system. The test with supermarket samples showed that more authentic samples to analyze influencing factors such as breed, feeding, and housing changes are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary folic acid (FA) on the production performance of laying hens, egg quality, and the nutritional differences between eggs fortified with FA and ordinary eggs. Methods: A total of 288 26-week-old Hy-Line Brown laying hens (initial body weights 1.65 ± 0.10 kg) with a similar weight and genetic background were used. A completely randomized design divided the birds into a control group and three treatment groups. Each group consisted of six replicates, with twelve chickens per replicate. Initially, all birds were fed a basal diet for 1 week. Subsequently, they were fed a basal diet supplemented with 0, 5, 10, or 15 mg/kg FA in a premix for a duration of 6 weeks. Results: Supplementation of FA could significantly (p < 0.05) enhance the FA content in egg yolks, particularly when 10 mg/kg was used, as it had the most effective enrichment effect. Compared to the control group, the Glu content in the 10 and 15 mg/kg FA groups showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease. Additionally, the contents of Asp, Ile, Tyr, Phe, Cys, and Met in the 15 mg/kg FA group were significantly (p < 0.05) lower compared to the other groups. Adding FA did not have significant effects on the levels of vitamin A and vitamin E in egg yolk, but the vitamin D content in the 5 and 10 mg/kg FA groups showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase. Furthermore, the addition of FA did not have a significant effect on the levels of Cu, Fe, Mn, Se, and Zn in egg yolk. The dietary FA did not have a significant effect on the total saturated fatty acids (SFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content in egg yolk. However, the total monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) content in the 5 and 10 mg/kg groups significantly (p < 0.05) increased. These changes in nutritional content might be attributed to the increased very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) protein content. The significant decrease in solute carrier family 1 Member 1 (SLC1A1), solute carrier family 1 Member 2 (SLC1A2), and solute carrier family 1 Member 3 (SLC1A3) gene expression compared to the control group appeared to be the reason for the decrease in amino acid content in egg yolk within the dietary FA group. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the appropriate addition of FA can enhance the levels of MUFA and vitamin D in egg yolks, thereby improving their nutritional value. Excessive intake of FA can decrease the effectiveness of enriching FA in egg yolk and impact the enrichment of certain amino acids. The yolk of eggs produced by adding 10 mg/kg of FA to the feed contains the optimal amount of nutrients. This study informs consumers purchasing FA-fortified eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work evaluated ß-carotene content, colour (L*, a*, b*), and consumer preference for egg yolks from chicken, guinea fowl, and quail, sampled from intensive or semi-intensive rearing systems in Ghana. The ß-carotene content of guinea fowl yolk was almost seven times greater (p < 0.001) than that of chicken and quail yolks. The yellowness of guinea fowl yolk (82.18; p < 0.01) was approximately 1.5 and 1.3 times greater than that of chicken and quail yolks, respectively. A consumer preference test showed a significantly greater score (5; p < 0.001) for guinea fowl than for the other egg types. The yellowness of egg yolks had strong positive relationship with ß-carotene content (r = 0.943; p = 0.216) and consumer preference (r = 0.995; p = 0.064). Therefore, enhancing the yellowness of egg yolks on the Ghanaian market, especially those from chicken, could lead to increased egg consumption in Ghana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effects of dietary Phytosterol Ester (PSE) supplementation on egg characteristics, eggshell ultrastructure, antioxidant capacity, liver function, hepatic metabolites, and its mechanism of action in Hy-Line Brown laying hens during peak laying period. A total of 256 healthy Hy-Line Brown laying hens were randomly allocated into four groups. The hens in the control group were fed a basal diet, while those in the experimental groups were fed a basal diet further supplemented with 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg PSE, respectively. It was found that the addition of 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg PSE to the diets increased egg weight, but decreased egg breaking strength (p < 0.05). The addition of PSEs to the diets increased albumen height and Haugh unit in all experimental groups (p < 0.05). Electron microscopic observation revealed that the mammillary thickness increased significantly at doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg, but the total thickness decreased, and the effective thickness also thinned (p < 0.05). The mammillary width narrowed in all experimental groups (p < 0.001). Dietary supplementation with 40 mg/kg PSE significantly increased egg yolk Phenylalanine, Leucine, and Isoleucine levels (p < 0.05). In untargeted liver metabolomic analyses, L-Phenylalanine increased significantly in all experimental groups. Leucyl-Lysine, Glutamyl-Leucyl-Arginine, and L-Tryptophan increased significantly at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg (p < 0.05), and L-Tyrosine increased significantly at doses of 10 and 40 mg/kg (p = 0.033). Aspartyl-Isoleucine also increased significantly at a dose of 10 mg/kg (p = 0.044). The concentration of total protein in the liver was significantly higher at doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg than that of the control group, and the concentrations of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were significantly reduced (p < 0.05). The concentration of triglyceride and alkaline phosphatase were significantly reduced in all experimental groups (p < 0.05). Steatosis and hemorrhage in the liver were also improved by observing the H&E-stained sections of the liver. Concerning the antioxidant capacity in the liver, malondialdehyde concentration was significantly reduced (p < 0.05) at a dose of 40 mg/kg. In the ovary, malondialdehyde and nitric oxide concentrations were significantly reduced (p < 0.001). In all the experimental groups, plasma nitric oxide concentration was significantly decreased while superoxide dismutase was significantly increased, and total antioxidant capacity concentration was significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the 10 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg doses. Metabolomics analyses revealed that PSEs play a role in promoting protein synthesis by promoting Aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis and amino acid metabolism, among other pathways. This study showed that the dietary addition of PSEs improved egg characteristics, antioxidant capacity, liver function, and symptoms of fatty liver hemorrhagic syndrome in Hy-Line Brown laying hens at peak laying stage. The changes in liver metabolism suggest that the mechanism of action may be related to pathways such as Aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis and amino acid metabolism. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that PSEs are safe and effective dietary additives as an alternative to antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: ε-polylysine hydrochloride (ε-PLH) is a naturally occurring antimicrobial peptide extensively utilized in the food and medical industries. However, its impact on animal husbandry remains to be further explored. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effect of ε-PLH on laying hens' health and laying performance. RESULTS: Dietary supplementationwith ε-PLH to the diet significantly increased average egg weight during weeks 1-8. Meanwhile, compared with the control group, supplementation with ε-PLH decreased the feed egg ratio during weeks 9-12 and egg breakage rate during weeks 9-16, whereas it increased eggshell strength during weeks 1-4 and 13-16 . The ε-PLH 0.05% group increased yolk percentage during weeks 5-8 and yolk color during weeks 1-4 . Furthermore, ε-PLH supplementation significantly increased the concentrations of total protein, albumin, globulin and reproductive hormones estradiol, as well as decreased interleukin-1 beta and malondialdehyde in the serum. Compared with the control group, supplementation with 0.05% ε-PLH significantly increased the relative abundance of Cyanobacteria and Gastranaerophilales and decreased the abundance of Desulfovibrio and Streptococcus in the cecum microbiota. In addition, ε-PLH 0.1% supplementation also increased acetic acid content in the cecum. CONCLUSION: Dietary supplementation with ε-PLH has a positive impact on both productive performance and egg quality in laying hens. Furthermore, ε-PLH can also relieve inflammation by promoting the immunity and reducing oxidative damage during egg production. ε-PLH has been shown to improve intestinal morphology, gut microbial diversity and intestinal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different production systems of livestock animals influence various factors, including the gut microbiota. Methods: We investigated whether changing the conditions from barns to free-range chicken farming impacts the microbiome over the course of three weeks. We compared the stool microbiota of chicken from industrial barns after introducing them either in community or separately to a free-range environment. Results: Over the six time points, 12 taxa—mostly lactobacilli—changed significantly. As expected, the former barn chicken cohort carries more resistances to common antibiotics. These, however, remained positive over the observed period. At the end of the study, we collected eggs and compared metabolomic profiles of the egg white and yolk to profiles of eggs from commercial suppliers. Here, we observed significant differences between commercial and fresh collected eggs as well as differences between the former barn chicken and free-range chicken. Conclusion: Our data indicate that the gut microbiota can undergo alterations over time in response to changes in production systems. These changes subsequently exert an influence on the metabolites found in the eggs. The preliminary results of our proof-of-concept study motivate larger scale observations with more individual chicken and longer observation periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The domestic cat (Felis catus) is one of the most common pets. Worldwide, approximately one in five adults are sensitive to cat allergens. The major cat allergen is the secretoglobulin Fel d 1, which is primarily produced in the salivary and sebaceous glands. Chickens produce IgY antibodies, which are similar in structure to mammalian IgG. When chickens are exposed to Fel d 1, anti-Fel d 1-specific IgY (AFD1) is produced and is naturally concentrated in egg yolk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the tolerability, effects on growth and food consumption, and potential adverse effects of a chicken egg product ingredient containing AFD1 in kittens. Methods: This was a blinded, controlled study. Twenty-seven (27) eight-week old kittens were randomly assigned to three feeding groups containing 0 ppm AFD1 (Group 0), 8 ppm AFD1 (Group 1), and 16 ppm AFD1 (Group 2) for 84 days. Veterinary exams and bloodwork were performed on Day 42 and Day 84, and body weight and body condition score (BCS) were monitored weekly. Results: Throughout the study, there were no signs of nutritional deficiency or adverse clinical events in any of the subjects. Administration of a chicken egg product ingredient containing AFD1 in the diet (whether in coating or combination of coating and top dress) had no significant effect on body weight nor food consumption, and all subjects maintained a healthy Body Condition Score (BCS) throughout the study. Moreover, there were no biologically significant differences in the mean clinical chemistry and hematology parameters. Discussion: This study demonstrated that a diet formulated to contain up to 16 ppm AFD1, included in the coating and the top-dress of dry kitten food, was well tolerated, promoted adequate growth, and exhibited no adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pepsin, trypsin and proteinase K were used in the present study to hydrolyse the proteins from whole eggs, yolks or whites, and the resulting hydrolysates were characterised in terms of antioxidant and IgE-binding properties, using a combination of in vitro and in silico methods. Based on the degree of hydrolysis (DH) results, the egg yolk proteins are better substrates for all the tested enzymes (DH of 6.2–20.1%) compared to those from egg whites (DH of 2.0–4.4%). The SDS-PAGE analysis indicated that pepsin and proteinase K were more efficient compared to trypsin in breaking the intramolecular peptide bonds of the high molecular weight egg proteins. For all the tested substrates, enzyme-assisted hydrolysis resulted in a significant increase in antioxidant activity, suggesting that many bioactive peptides are encrypted in inactive forms in the parent proteins. The hydrolysates obtained with proteinase K exhibited the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity (124–311 µM Trolox/g protein) and the lowest residual IgE-binding capacity. The bioinformatics tools revealed that proteinase K is able to break the integrity of the main linear IgE-binding epitopes from ovalbumin and ovomucoid. It can be concluded that proteinase K is a promising tool for modulating the intrinsic properties of egg proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate and confirm the properties of eggs produced by laying hens fed a diet consisting of pomegranate seed oil as a source of CLnA and flaxseed oil as a source of α-linolenic acid. The study involved determining the chemical composition of the eggs, including their fatty acid profile. The results showed that modifying the laying hens' feed composition resulted in eggs with high nutritional value, with a favorable change in their fatty acid profile. In most cases, the addition of linseed oil or pomegranate seed oil did not affect the physical and chemical properties of the eggs. However, the diet of laying hens had a positive effect on the fatty acid profile of the egg yolk. The presence of conjugated linolenic acid trienes in eggs produced by laying hens fed a modified diet makes them a potential source of these compounds for human consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Given the persistence of certain threats to the survival of several free-living species, the need for efficient strategies for the conservation of genetic resources becomes increasingly urgent. An excellent option to help improve cryopreservation in peccaries would be to combine it with specific protocols and equipment for semen cooling, allowing transport and cooling curves different from those already used in conventional cryopreservation protocols. The ability to transport refrigerated semen from free-living species would allow the exchange of valuable biological material between institutions (zoos, reserves, breeding facilities, etc.), followed by shipment to a specialized laboratory for long-term conservation (cryopreservation), without the need to move the animals. Along with cooling systems, dilution media are fundamental to semen processing protocols. To our knowledge, this is the first study to establish protocols for integrating cooling and cryopreservation techniques for peccary semen using shipping containers. Overall, this study revealed promising new alternative protocols for the cryopreservation of peccary semen, opening new perspectives for this technique. We verified the possibility of cooling peccary semen for 4, 24, and 48 h before cryopreservation, using different dilution media (TRIS + egg yolk (20%) and PRIMXcell Ultra). Ten ejaculates were divided equally into six aliquots and then diluted. Two aliquots were stored in a biological incubator (4 h), and the remaining aliquots were stored in a commercial container, the Botutainer® (24 and 48 h), both at 5 °C. The samples were cryopreserved and then evaluated for kinetic parameters, functionality, integrity, mitochondrial activity, morphology, and sperm binding capacity. After thawing, samples diluted in TRIS showed total motility of 43.4 ± 6.8%, 48.4 ± 6.2%, and 38.6 ± 5.0% after cooling for 4, 24, and 48 h before cryopreservation, respectively. Such results are significantly greater than those achieved with the use of PRIMXcell diluent for 4 (8.3 ± 2.8%), 24 (4.7 ± 1.4%), and 48 h (4.8 ± 2.9%) storage (p < 0.05). Furthermore, TRIS provided better preservation of sperm membrane integrity when samples were cooled for 24 h (44.5 ± 4.7%) before cryopreservation compared to those samples diluted in PRIMXcell Ultra stored for 24 (25.7 ± 4.0%) and 48 h (25.2 ± 4.0%) before freezing (p < 0.05). In summary, we suggest TRIS diluent + egg yolk (20%) as an effective option to allow semen to cool for 24 or 48 h in a transport container before cryopreservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Egg activation, representing the critical oocyte-to-embryo transition, provokes meiosis completion, modification of the vitelline membrane to prevent polyspermy, and translation of maternally provided mRNAs. This transition is triggered by a calcium signal induced by spermatozoon fertilization in most animal species, but not in insects. In Drosophila melanogaster, mature oocytes remain arrested at metaphase-I of meiosis and the calcium-dependent activation occurs while the oocyte moves through the genital tract. Here, we discovered that the oenocytes of fruitfly females are required for egg activation. Oenocytes, cells specialized in lipid-metabolism, are located beneath the abdominal cuticle. In adult flies, they synthesize the fatty acids (FAs) that are the precursors of cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs), including pheromones. The oenocyte-targeted knockdown of a set of FA-anabolic enzymes, involved in very-long-chain fatty acid (VLCFA) synthesis, leads to a defect in egg activation. Given that some but not all of the identified enzymes are required for CHC/pheromone biogenesis, this putative VLCFA-dependent remote control may rely on an as-yet unidentified CHC or may function in parallel to CHC biogenesis. Additionally, we discovered that the most posterior ventral oenocyte cluster is in close proximity to the uterus. Since oocytes dissected from females deficient in this FA-anabolic pathway can be activated in vitro, this regulatory loop likely operates upstream of the calcium trigger. To our knowledge, our findings provide the first evidence that a physiological extra-genital signal remotely controls egg activation. Moreover, our study highlights a potential metabolic link between pheromone-mediated partner recognition and egg activation. Author summary: Efficient sexual reproduction requires gamete formation and maturation, partner mating, fecundation and the triggering of embryonic development. Deciphering the underlying physiological regulatory processes represents a major scientific challenge, crucial both for medical issues and agricultural pest control. A pivotal step in the reproductive process, known as egg activation, is the oocyte-to-embryo transition. In a wide range of metazoan species, this activation is provoked by the entry of the spermatozoon into the oocyte. Conversely, in insects, egg activation is initiated as the oocyte moves through the female genital tract, operating independently of spermatozoon entry. Here, we discovered that egg activation in Drosophila depends on a set of anabolic enzymes required for very-long-chain fatty acid (VLCFA) synthesis in the oenocytes. The oenocytes, abdominal cells specialized in lipid metabolism, are necessary for the biogenesis of cuticular hydrocarbons and pheromones. To our knowledge, our findings provide the first evidence that a non-genital physiological signal remotely governs egg activation. Given that pheromone-deficient Drosophila females attract males regardless of their species, we propose that pheromone biogenesis and this VLCFA-dependent remote signal might have co-evolved to prevent the development of hybrid individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal immunoglobulin transfer plays a key role in conferring passive immunity to neonates. Maternal blood immunoglobulin Y (IgY) in avian species is transported to newly-hatched chicks in two steps: 1) IgY is transported from the maternal circulation to the yolk of maturing oocytes, 2) the IgY deposited in yolk is transported to the circulation of the embryo via the yolk sac membrane. An IgY-Fc receptor, FcRY, is involved in the second step, but the mechanism of the first step is still unclear. We determined whether FcRY was also the basis for maternal blood IgY transfer to the yolk in the first step during egg development. Immunohistochemistry revealed that FcRY was expressed in the capillary endothelial cells in the internal theca layer of the ovarian follicle. Substitution of the amino acid residue in Fc region of IgY substantially changed the transport efficiency of IgY into egg yolks when intravenously-injected into laying quail; the G365A mutant had a high transport efficiency, but the Y363A mutant lacked transport ability. Binding analyses of IgY mutants to FcRY indicated that the mutant with a high transport efficiency (G365A) had a strong binding activity to FcRY; the mutants with a low transport efficiency (G365D, N408A) had a weak binding activity to FcRY. One exception, the Y363A mutant had a remarkably strong binding affinity to FcRY, with a small dissociation rate. The injection of neutralizing FcRY antibodies in laying quail markedly reduced IgY uptake into egg yolks. The neutralization also showed that FcRY was engaged in prolongation of half-life of IgY in the blood; FcRY is therefore a multifunctional receptor that controls avian immunity. The pattern of the transport of the IgY mutants from the maternal blood to the egg yolk was found to be identical to that from the fertilized egg yolk to the newly-hatched chick blood circulation, via the yolk sac membrane. FcRY is therefore a critical IgY receptor that regulates the IgY uptake from the maternal blood circulation into the yolk of avian species, further indicating that the two steps of maternal--newly-hatched IgY transfer are controlled by a single receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Due to current selection practices for increased egg production and peak persistency, the production profile, age at maturity, and body weight criteria for commercial layers are constantly changing. Body weight and age at the time of photostimulation will thus always be the factors that need to be adequately addressed among various production systems. The current study was carried out to determine the effects of pullets' body weight (low, medium, and heavy) on their performance, welfare, physiological response, and hormonal profile. Methods: With regard to live weight, 150 16-week-old pullets were divided into three groups using a completely randomized design (CRD) and held until the 50th week. One-way analysis of variance was used to evaluate the data under the CRD, and the least significant difference test was used to distinguish between treatment means. Results: In comparison to the medium and light birds, the heavy birds had higher body weight at maturity, an earlier age at maturity, and higher egg weight, eggshell weight, eggshell thickness, egg yolk index, breaking strength, egg surface area, egg shape index, egg volume, and hormonal profile except corticosterone. However, the medium and light birds had lower feed consumption rates per dozen eggs and per kilogram of egg mass than the heavy birds. Light birds showed greater body weight gain, egg production, and egg specific gravity than the other categories. At 20 weeks of age, physiological response, welfare aspects, and catalase were non-significant; however, at 50 weeks of age, all these factors—aside from catalase—were extremely significant. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that layers can function at lower body weights during photostimulation; hence, dietary regimens that result in lighter pullets may be preferable. Additionally, the welfare of the birds was not compromised by the lighter weight group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance in the laying hen production industry has become a serious public health problem. The antimicrobial resistance and phylogenetic relationships of the common conditional pathogen Enterococcus along the laying hen production chain have not been systematically clarified. 105 Enterococcus isolates were obtained from 115 environmental samples (air, dust, feces, flies, sewage, and soil) collected along the laying hen production chain (breeding chicken, chick, young chicken, and commercial laying hen). These Enterococcus isolates exhibited resistance to some clinically relevant antibiotics, such as tetracycline (92.4%), streptomycin (92.4%), and erythromycin (91.4%), and all strains had multidrug resistance phenotypes. Whole genome sequencing characterized 29 acquired antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) that conferred resistance to 11 classes of antibiotics in 51 pleuromutilin-resistant Enterococcus isolates, and lsa(E) , which mediates resistance to pleuromutilins, always co-occurred with lnu(B). Alignments with the Mobile Genetic Elements database identified four transposons (Tn554, Tn558, Tn6261, and Tn6674) with several ARGs (erm(A), ant(9)-la, fex(A) , and optrA) that mediated resistance to many clinically important antibiotics. Moreover, we identified two new transposons that carried ARGs in the Tn554 family designated as Tn7508 and Tn7492. A complementary approach based on conventional multi-locus sequence typing and whole genome single nucleotide polymorphism analysis showed that phylogenetically related pleuromutilin-resistant Enterococcus isolates were widely distributed in various environments on different production farms. Our results indicate that environmental contamination by antimicrobial-resistant Enterococcus requires greater attention, and they highlight the risk of pleuromutilin-resistant Enterococcus and ARGs disseminating along the laying hen production chain, thereby warranting effective disinfection. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The only diet that has been capable of rearing eel larvae to the glass eel stage in captivity is the shark egg (SE)-based diet (SE). This study investigated the potential of alternative dietary components, namely hen egg yolk (HEY), milk proteins, and fish protein hydrolysate (FPH), on the growth and survival of eel larvae. In the first experiment, a diet containing HEY and skimmed milk powder (HS) was compared to SE. There were no significant differences in growth and survival rate between the two diets except in the early part of the experiment period. In the second experiment, HS was modified by the addition of FPH and casein (FC), and larval performance was evaluated for three dietary regimens (SE, HS, and FC). The performance of larvae fed HS and FC was found to be comparable or superior to those fed SE. It was observed that larvae fed the alternative diets to SE were able to progress to glass eels. However, more skeletal abnormalities were observed in HS in experiment 1. The results of this study indicate that a combination of HEY and milk proteins is suitable as a larval eel diet, and that it has the potential to replace SE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitellogenin (Vg) is a glycolipid complex protein produced by the fat body of female insects. It plays vital roles in oocyte development and helps regulate reproductive development. In this study, we determined the grading criteria for ovarian development and identified a Vg gene (designated TaVg) from the devastating invasive pest, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick). TaVg contains a 5208 bp open reading frame encoding a protein of 1735 amino acids that includes conserved domain structures of insect Vg. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that TaVg was clustered into a clade with the Vg of other Lepidoptera species, suggesting this gene has been conserved during evolution. Spatiotemporal expression analyses showed that TaVg was highly expressed in the female pupae and adults. There was increased expression during sexual maturation, and the high expression level was found in the ovary and fat body. RNAi-mediated silencing of TaVg resulted in significant downregulation of vitellogenin contents and severely affected ovarian development. Females injected with dsTaVg had shorter ovarian tubes and fewer oocytes compared with the untreated individuals. The number of oocytes and the amount of yolk deposition in the egg chambers also reduced. Depletion of TaVg significantly reduced the number of eggs laid and the hatching rate. Co-silencing of TaVg and TaVgR had a more significant effect on inhibiting the ovarian development and reducing female fecundity of T. absoluta, showing that the two genes play important role in regulating the reproduction. Our results provide potential targets for developing RNAi-based pest management tractic on T. absoluta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Celiac syndrome occurs as a result of the deterioration of the natural structure of the intestine due to the consumption of foods containing gluten. Since semolina dessert contains gluten protein, it cannot be consumed by celiac patients. The production of alternative gluten-free products shows that these products are of great importance for this patient group. In this study, gluten-free semolina dessert formulations using rice flour (RF) and buckwheat flour (BWF) and chestnut flour (CF) were optimized using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Potato Starch (PS) was added to the samples containing BWF and CF. It was determined that the addition of PS increased the processibility of the flour of the semolina dessert prepared with chestnut flour and the consumability of the semolina dessert prepared with buckwheat flour. It was determined that the use of different grades of flour, potato starch/corn semolina mixture, egg white and yolk powder and drinking water increased the volume, symmetry index, chewiness and texture values of the sample (p<0.05). When all components are taken into account, in BWF formulation (62.5/37.5) % flour/corn semolina mixture, 75.85% drinking water 14.73 egg white and yolk powder (same amount) and (50/50) flour/corn semolina mixture in RF formulation, % 81.46, drinking water 14.91% yolk and egg white powder (same amount), in CF formulation (50/50) flour/corn semolina mixture, 60.30% water when drinking, 14.95% egg white and yolk It was possible to produce gluten-free semolina, which is the closest dessert to the control sample semolina dessert by using powdered semolina. As a result of the sensory scores of the prepared revanis (with different formulations), the control sample, rice, chestnut and buckwheat semolina dessert got the highest score, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate the efficiency of hard-gelatin and hard-hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) capsules as biodegradable alternative containers to plastic straws in European eel (Anguilla anguilla), gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) and European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) sperm cryopreservation. Sperm samples from each European eel (n = 12) were diluted 1:8:1 (sperm: extender P1+5 % egg yolk: methanol). Gilthead seabream (n = 12) samples were individually diluted in a cryoprotectant solution of 5 % Me 2 SO + NaCl 1 % plus BSA (10 mg mL−1) at a ratio of 1:6 (sperm: cryoprotectant solution). European sea bass (n = 10) sperm from each male was diluted in non-activating medium (NAM) at a ratio of 1:5.7 (sperm: NAM), and 5 % of Me 2 SO was added. The diluted European eel and sea bass sperm aliquots (0.5 mL) were individually filled in plastic straws (0.5 mL), hard-gelatin, and HPMC capsules (0.68 mL). Gilthead seabream diluted sperm (0.25 mL) were filled in plastic straws (0.25 mL) and identical capsules described. All samples were frozen in liquid nitrogen vapor and stored in a liquid nitrogen tank. Sperm kinetic parameters were evaluated by CASA-Mot software. Sperm membrane integrity was performed using a Live and Dead KIT and an epifluorescence microscope. To quantify DNA damage, the alkaline comet assay was performed and TailDNA (TD-%) and Olive Tail Moment (OTM) were evaluated by CaspLab software. Sperm cryopreservation of the three Mediterranean species in straws, gelatin, or HPMC capsules reduced the kinetic parameters and cell membrane integrity. Generally, the post-thawing samples cryopreserved in straws and capsules did not differ for the kinetic parameters and cell membrane integrity, except for European sea bass sperm, where the samples stored in gelatin capsules showed higher velocities (VCL - 100; VSL - 76; VAP - 90 μm s−1) than the sperm stored in HPMC capsules (VCL - 87; VSL - 59; VAP - 73 μm s−1). The cryopreservation process did not damage the sperm DNA of European eel and European sea bass, regardless of the containers used. On the other hand, gilthead seabream sperm cryopreserved in gelatin (TD - 9.8 %; OTM - 9.7) and HPMC (TD - 11.1 %; OTM - 11.2) capsules showed higher DNA damage than fresh samples (TD - 3.6 %; OTM - 2.7) and the sperm stored in straws (TD - 4.4 %; OTM - 5.2). The hard-gelatin and HPMC biodegradable capsules can be used as an alternative to straws for European eel, gilthead seabream, and European sea bass sperm cryopreservation. • Hard-capsules maintain the cryopreserved sperm motility, as well as plastic straws. • Sperm thawing in an extender did not compromise the cell membrane integrity. • Capsules' thawing process can damage the gilthead seabream sperm DNA. • Alkaline comet assay protocol for European eel sperm worked well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Taurine supplementation in tris egg yolk citrate (TEYC) extender can improve antioxidant defense and reduce motility degeneration rate in semen of Surti buck preserved at refrigeration temperature. Present study has evaluated antioxidant effect of different concentrations of taurine in TEYC extender on oxidative stress, antioxidant defense and motility degeneration rate in Surti buck semen preserved at refrigerated temperature. Methods: Four Surti bucks (age >2 years) were selected. Total 64 ejaculates (16 per buck) were collected during a period of 8 week. Post-collection they were pooled and stored at refrigeration temperature after dividing into 5 groups based on different taurine concentrations in TEYC extender viz. 0 mM (control T1), 25 mM (T2), 50 mM (T3), 75 mM (T4) and 100 mM (T5) taurine maintaining final concentration of 200106 sperm/ml (pH 6.5-6.8). Evaluation of motility degeneration rate at 24, 36 and 48 hours and glutathione as well as lipid peroxidation (MDA) at 0 and 48 hours was done. Result: Supplementation of taurine @50 mM in TEYC extender caused post-chilling significant increase in reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, lowering of lipid peroxidation (in terms of MDA production) and reduction of motility degeneration rate (MDR)% in semen of Surti bucks. It improved antioxidant defense thereby maintaining good quality of semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The intestinal epithelium is the layer of cells that line the digestive tract, and it acts both as a selective filter to facilitate the absorption of nutrients and a protective barrier to toxins and infection. The functional integrity of this constantly renewing cell layer depends on so-called tight junction proteins, a class that includes two regulatory proteins called occludin and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). We studied the effect of two different prebiotic seaweed supplements for 41 weeks on occludin and ZO-1 expression in two genetic lines of laying hen. Differences between genetic lines in the level of occludin in a highly absorptive section of the small intestine called the jejunum were found. There also were differences due to seaweed supplementation in the ZO-1 protein, and red seaweed supplementation appeared to have more impact in the brown laying hen strain than in the white strain. Overall, our results are consistent with previous studies showing genetic differences in diet response. It is proposed that prebiotic diet supplements improve intestinal function, in part by improving the barrier function of the intestinal epithelium with an associated increase in the expression of tight junction proteins, including occludin and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). We examined the expression of these proteins in two strains of laying hens (Lohman LSL-lite (White) and Lohman Brown-lite (Brown)) who were supplemented or not with 3% Chondrus crispus or 0.5% Ascophyllum nodosum seaweeds from 31 to 72 weeks of age. Occludin was localized to the lateral surfaces and across the intestinal epithelium in all animals. Reactivity for ZO-1 was concentrated at the apicolateral epithelial cell membrane border. Mood's median test indicated that White hens may express more occludin in villus epithelium (median intensity 3.5 vs. 2.5 in Brown hens, p = 0.06) but less ZO-1 in the deep cryptal epithelium (median intensity 1.5 vs. 2.5 in Brown hens, p = 0.06). Western blotting also showed higher levels of occludin in White than Brown hens (p < 0.05). A decrease in ZO-1 Western blot expression was associated with Chondrus crispus supplementation in comparison to controls (p < 0.05), but not with Ascophyllum nodosum supplementation (p > 0.05). In conclusion, genetic strain and dietary seaweed supplements affect tight junction regulatory protein expression levels but do not impact the anatomical distribution, as seen in cryosections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Developing new products according to consumer wishes is a strategy that most industries use to be competitive in the market. The aim of this study was to improve egg quality by reducing cholesterol and saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and enriching polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and natural antioxidants. We evaluated the effects of introducing hemp seeds, as a source of PUFAs, into a standard diet with or without dried fruit pomace (dried blackcurrant (DB) or dried rosehip (DR)), as a source of natural antioxidants, on the laying performance of hens and the fatty acid (FA) profile, cholesterol level, antioxidant content, and lipid oxidative status of the yolks of fresh and stored eggs (refrigerated at 4 °C for 28 days). The dietary incorporation of hemp seeds improved the fat quality of the egg yolks by reducing the concentration of cholesterol and SFAs and increasing the proportion of omega-3 FAs. Laying performance, cholesterol concentration, and yolk FA profile were not improved by the use of dried fruit pomace, compared to the diet supplemented only with hemp seeds. The incorporation of dried fruit pomace into the diets increased the antioxidant content and oxidative stability of fats in the yolks, and it improved the color of the yolks. It can be concluded that including hemp seeds in combination with dried fruit pomace in the diets of laying hens did not affect the laying performance of hens but ensured an improvement in egg quality. This strategy of feeding hens allows one to obtain eggs enriched in omega-3 FAs and natural antioxidants, providing an alternative for consumers to obtain these valuable health-promoting nutrients. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of introducing hemp seeds, as a source of PUFAs, into a standard diet with or without dried fruit pomace (dried blackcurrant (DB) or dried rosehip (DR)), as a source of natural antioxidants, on the laying performance of hens and the FA profile, cholesterol level, antioxidant content, and lipid oxidative status in the yolks of fresh eggs or eggs stored at 4 °C for 28 days. The experiment used 128 Tetra SL hens at 35 weeks of age, which were divided into four groups and randomly assigned to four dietary treatments: a standard corn–wheat–soybean meal diet (C), standard diet containing 8% ground hemp seed (H), hemp seed diet containing 3% dried blackcurrant pomace (HB), and hemp seed diet containing 3% dried rosehip pomace (HR). The laying rate, feed conversion ratio (FCR), egg weight, and yolk weight were improved by the use of hemp seeds. The yolks of the H, HB, and HR eggs had a lower cholesterol (p ˂ 0.01) and SFA content, while the concentration of total and individual PUFAs (n-6 and n-3 FAs) was significantly higher (p ˂ 0.01) compared to C. In addition, the introduction of hemp seeds into the diets alone or with dried fruit pomace (DB or DR) led to increased (p ˂ 0.001) content of α-linolenic acid (ALA, 18:3n-3), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n-3), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) and hypo-/hypercholesterolemic FA ratio and decreased arachidonic acid (AA, 20:4n-6) content, n-6/n-3 ratio, and thrombogenicity index (TI) compared to the control eggs. The introduction of dried fruit pomace (DB or DR) into the diets had no effect on the laying performance of the hens or the cholesterol content and FA profile of the egg yolks, compared to the diet supplemented only with hemp seeds. The dried fruit pomace improved the color, accumulation of antioxidants, and oxidative stability of fats in the yolks of the fresh eggs and eggs stored at 4 °C for 28 days. The DR was found to have the most desirable effects, producing the most intense color of egg yolks, the highest content of natural antioxidants, and the best oxidative stability of yolk lipids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to determine the effect of enzymatic pre-digestion of fermented palm kernel cake in the laying hen's diet on the performance production, nutrient digestibility, egg quality, and egg chemical content. Palm kernel cake (PKC) was added with 3% ammonium sulfate and then fermented by using Saccharomyces cerevisiae for 5 days (FPKC). The FPKC was hydrolyzed with mannanase to produce enzymatic pre-digestion of FPKC (EPFPKC). The study used a completely randomized design with 5 treatments and 6 replications. The EPFPKC-containing diets were fed to 240 Lohmann Brown laying hens aged 19 weeks old for 3 months. The diets were D-1 (without EPFPKC), D-2 (5% EPFPKC), D-3 (10% EPFPKC), D-4 (15% EPFPKC), and D-5 (20% EPFPKC). Feed and drinking water were available at all times. Total fecal discharges were collected for three consecutive days to measure feed digestibility. The variables measured were feed digestibility, production performance, egg quality, lauric acid, cholesterol, and beta-carotene content of eggs. Data were analyzed with the variance analysis. The results showed that fermentation could increase the protein content of PKC and decrease the crude fiber content. The addition of EPFPKC in the diets increased dry matter, protein, and crude fiber digestibility and improved the quality of albumen and yolk during 28 days of storage at room temperature. Adding EPFPKC also increased the concentration of lauric acid and beta-carotene in eggs. In conclusion, the addition of 15% of enzymatic pre-digestion of fermented palm kernel cake (D-4) in the diet improves the quality of eggs stored for 28 days, and increases the concentration of lauric acid and beta carotene in eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mice are an important research tool for genetic and molecular biology, allowing researchers to explore a variety of human illness models. Egg yolk is a common component of semen extenders for domestic animals and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) from egg yolk have some cryoprotective properties. This study aimed to investigate sperm quality characteristics and nuclear DNA integrity after post-thawing in an extender (18% raffinose + 3% skim milk) supplemented with different concentrations of LDL (2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5%, or 10%) in mice. 18% Raffinose+3% skim milk extender was used as a control group without LDL. CD-1 mice were used in the study, and semen was collected from the cauda epididymis and diluted with the extender. The straws were then frozen and thawed to evaluate progressive motility, viability, plasma membrane (HOST), acrosome, and nuclear DNA integrity parameters. Fresh sperm had the highest progressive motility, viability, plasma membrane integrity, and longevity (endurance) of progressive motility for 4 h in HTF solution. The greatest spermatologic results, including nuclear DNA integrity, were determined in fresh sperm (p<0.05). The greatest post-thaw progressive motility (56.7±1.3%), viability (11.6±2.9%), membrane integrity (63.0±2.7%), and longevity at the end of the 4 h (31.3±2.1%) were found in the group with supplementation of 2.5% LDL compared with the control group. The lowest progressive motility, viability, and plasma membrane integrity were determined in the 10% LDL group (p<0.05). The cryopreservation process increased the rates of fragmented DNA in all tested LDL and control groups compared with fresh sperm (p<0.05). There was no statistical difference between the control and experimental groups in terms of nuclear DNA damage after freezing and thawing (p<0.05). It was concluded that the addition of 2.5% LDL to the extender improved the spermatological quality parameters after freezing and could be used in the freezing and preservation of mouse sperm as it showed a higher protective effect against cold shock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryopreservation is one of the reliable techniques for long‐term storage of sperm. The success of this technique depends on the choice of cryoprotectant; therefore, a plethora of literature has reported the effects of different cryoprotective agents so far. Kappa‐carrageenan (κ‐carrageenan) is a hydrocolloid polysaccharide extracted from red marine seaweed. Its unique property makes it a promising option as a non‐colligative cryoprotectant. The current study aims to evaluate the cryoprotective effect of k‐carrageenan along with glycerol on ram sperm quality both after equilibration and freezing. Nine Kajli rams were utilized in this experiment for semen collection through an artificial vagina maintained at 42°C. Qualified samples were diluted in tris egg yolk glycerol (TEYG) extender containing different concentrations of k‐carrageenan as 0 mg/mL (control), 0.2, 0.5, 0.8 and 1 mg/mL. Post‐thaw assessment was done at 37°C after 24 h of storage, which showed a significant improvement (p <.05) in sperm viability, motility, membrane and acrosome integrity in an extender containing k‐carrageenan at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL compared to control. It is concluded from the current study that the combination of glycerol and 0.5 mg/mL concentration of k‐carrageenan improved the sperm post‐thaw quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]