ß-Hydroxy-ß-methylbutyrate: A feed supplement influencing performance, bone metabolism, intestinal morphology, and muscle quality of laying hens: a preliminary one-point study.

Laying hens, selectively bred for high egg production, often suffer from bone fragility and fractures, impacting their welfare and causing economic losses. Additionally, gut health and muscle quality are crucial for overall health and productivity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of ß-Hydroxy-ß-methylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation on performance, bone metabolism, intestinal morphology, and muscle quality in laying hens. Forty-eight Bovans Brown hens were divided into a control group and an HMB-supplemented group (0.02% HMB in diet). The study spanned from the 31st to the 60th wk of age. Assessments included bone mechanical testing, serum hormonal analysis, histological analysis of bone and intestine, and muscle quality analysis. The HMB supplementation led to decreased feed intake without affecting body weight or laying rate in laying hens. It caused an increase in both mean daily and total egg weight, indicating improved feed utilization, without influencing the feed intake to egg weight ratio. Enhanced bone formation markers and altered intestinal morphometric parameters were observed, along with improved trabecular bone structure. However, no changes in measured other bone quality indices, including geometric, densitometric, or mechanical properties were observed. Muscle analysis revealed no significant changes in overall meat quality, except for a decrease in cholesterol content and alterations in the fatty acid profile, notably a reduction in total n-3 polyunsaturated and total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). In conclusion, although not all effects of HMB supplementation were unequivocally beneficial, the positive changes in performance data and trabecular bone microarchitecture support further research into various doses and durations of supplementation. Such studies are necessary to fully understand and optimize the benefits of HMB for enhancing the health and productivity of laying hens.

Innovative high fat diet establishes a novel zebrafish model for the study of visceral obesity.

Obesity is a complex chronic condition associated with multiple health risks, including visceral obesity, which is particularly detrimental. To gain insight into the mechanisms underlying obesity and its associated pathologies, a novel zebrafish model was established using an innovative high-fat diet (HFD). The primary goal was to induce visceral obesity in zebrafish and study the associated structural changes. To achieve this, a unique HFD consisting of 40% beef fat (HFD40) was developed and supplemented with magnesium aluminometasilicate to improve stability in a high humidity environment. Feeding regimens were initiated for both juvenile (starting at 2 weeks post-fertilization, lasting 18 weeks) and adult zebrafish (3 months post-fertilization, 8 weeks feeding duration). The innovative dietary approach successfully induced visceral obesity in both juvenile and adult zebrafish. This new model provides a valuable tool to study obesity-related pathologies, metabolic syndrome, and potential therapeutic interventions. Most importantly, the low-cost and easy-to-prepare composition of HFD40 was seamlessly incorporated into the water without the need for separation, was readily absorbed by the fish and induced rapid weight gain in the zebrafish population. In conclusion, this study presents a novel HFD40 composition enriched with a high beef fat concentration (40%), which represents a significant advance in the development of an experimental zebrafish model for the study of visceral obesity and associated metabolic changes.

Nutritional and Antioxidative Benefits of Dietary Macroalgae Supplementation in Weaned Piglets.

This study explores the effects of dietary brown macroalgae (Ascophyllum nodosum) inclusion on digestibility and blood biochemical indices and redox markers in piglets fed diets with varying levels (0%, 0.6% and 1%) of macroalgae from 18 to 64 days of age. Macroalgae significantly influenced lipid profiles, reducing total cholesterol levels (quadratic contrast p = 0.001) and demonstrating an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, particularly with 1% macroalgae inclusion (linear contrast p < 0.001), with a decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in both macroalgae-supplemented groups (linear contrast p = 0.001). Additionally, macroalgae had a positive impact on the activities of antioxidative enzymes (ferric-reducing ability of plasma, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione) and reduced lipid peroxidation products (lipid hydroperoxide, malondialdehyde) in the blood, liver tissue, and intestinal epithelium of the ileum, suggesting enhanced antioxidative defense mechanisms. These changes were dose-dependent; in blood plasma, they exhibited both a linear and quadratic response, while in the tissues, the response was primarily linear. Additionally, an increase in the digestibility of crude fat in macroalgae-supplemented groups was observed (linear contrast p < 0.001), highlighting their potential role in improving nutrient absorption and digestion. The study findings emphasize the health benefits of natural, seaweed-based additives in diets, particularly in managing oxidative stress and improving lipid profiles, and highlight the potential of macroalgae as a natural dietary supplement to improve antioxidant systems and lipid metabolism in piglets.

Does Chronic Pancreatitis in Growing Pigs Lead to Articular Cartilage Degradation and Alterations in Subchondral Bone?

Chronic pancreatitis (CP), a progressive inflammatory disease, poses diagnostic challenges due to its initially asymptomatic nature. While CP's impact on exocrine and endocrine functions is well-recognized, its potential influence on other body systems, particularly in young individuals, remains underexplored. This study investigates the hypothesis that CP in growing pigs leads to alterations in articular cartilage and subchondral bone, potentially contributing to osteoarthritis (OA) development. Utilizing a pig model of cerulein-induced CP, we examined the structural and compositional changes in subchondral bone, articular cartilage, and synovial fluid. Histological analyses, including Picrosirius Red and Safranin-O staining, were employed alongside immuno-histochemistry and Western blotting techniques. Our findings reveal significant changes in the subchondral bone, including reduced bone volume and alterations in collagen fiber composition. Articular cartilage in CP pigs exhibited decreased proteoglycan content and alterations in key proteins such as MMP-13 and TGF-ß1, indicative of early cartilage degradation. These changes suggest a link between CP and musculoskeletal alterations, underscoring the need for further research into CP's systemic effects. Our study provides foundational insights into the relationship between CP and skeletal health, potentially guiding future pediatric healthcare strategies for early CP diagnosis and management.

Immunoexpression of Spexin in Selected Segments of the Bovine (Bos taurus taurus) Gastrointestinal Tract.

In the expansive domain of neuropeptide investigation, spexin (SPX) has emerged as a captivating subject, exerting a significant impact on diverse physiological processes. Initially identified in mice, SPX's distribution transcends various organs, suggesting its potential regulatory roles. Despite extensive research in smaller species, a notable gap exists in our comprehension of SPX in larger mammals, particularly ruminants. Our study meticulously explores the immunolocalization of SPX within the gastrointestinal organs of bovines, with a specific focus on the abomasum, jejunum, and colon. Tissue samples from Holstein-Friesian cattle underwent careful processing, and gene mRNA expression levels, particularly GALR2 and SPX, were assessed. Intriguingly, our findings revealed that GALR2 expression was highest in the jejunum, signifying a potentially critical role in this digestive segment. Immunohistochemistry further unveiled distinct patterns of SPX immunoreactivity in each examined region-abomasum, jejunum, and colon-highlighting nuanced, region-specific responses. Notably, the abomasum and jejunum predominantly exhibited positive immunoreactivity in the submucosal plexus, while the colon, in contrast, demonstrated a higher degree of immunoreactivity in myenteric plexus neurons. Our investigation, grounded in the hypothesis of ubiquitous SPX distribution in ruminants, delves deeper into the intricate role of SPX within the enteric nervous system. This study meticulously explores the spatial distribution of SPX within the myenteric and submucosal plexuses, integral components of the enteric nervous system. These findings significantly enhance our understanding of SPX's potential roles in gastrointestinal regulation in bovines, providing a unique perspective on larger mammals and enriching our comprehension of this intriguing neuropeptide's significance in various physiological processes.

Yolk Fatty Acid Profile and Amino Acid Composition in Eggs from Hens Supplemented with ß-Hydroxy-ß-Methylbutyrate.

In recent years, a supplementation of livestock animals, including poultry, with ß-Hydroxy-ß-methylbutyrate (HMB) has gained attention for its effects on protein and fat metabolism. This study investigates the effects of HMB in the laying hen diet on egg quality, focusing on amino acid and fatty acid composition. Laying hens were supplemented with 0.02% HMB, with performance parameters and egg components analyzed. HMB supplementation led to increased albumen weight, influencing egg weight while also reducing feed intake per egg without affecting laying rate, yolk indices, fat, or cholesterol content. Notably, the study revealed significant changes in egg amino acid and fatty acid profiles due to HMB supplementation. Various amino acids, including glycine, serine, and isoleucine, were altered in the yolk, impacting nutritional value and potential health benefits. Regarding fatty acids, the study observed changes in both saturated as well as n-6 and n-3 fatty acids, affecting the overall lipid profile of egg yolks. However, the shifts in fatty acid composition could have implications for cardiovascular health due to altered ratios of n-6/n-3 fatty acids. Further research is required to comprehensively understand the implications of these findings for consumer-oriented egg quality and health benefits.

Morphometric Analysis of Developmental Alterations in the Small Intestine of Goose.

In this study, a morphometric analysis of morphological changes in the layers of the small intestine (duodenum and jejunum) and liver occurring during the hatching period (week 0) and postnatal development (weeks 1, 3, 6, and 8) was performed in geese. For this purpose, the staining of samples obtained from tissues collected from geese after culling was carried out. Staining was performed using the Goldner method to visualize all layers of the intestine for morphometric measurements. Our analysis focused mainly on traits such as the thickness of the mucosal, submucosal, and muscular layers, as well as traits related to intestinal absorption, such as the height and width of intestinal villi and crypts. Additionally, we also took into account the number of mononuclear and binucleate hepatocytes and other cells present in the liver. After analyzing the results, an increase in most traits was found during the development of the animals, with slight differences between the sections of the duodenum and jejunum. An interesting phenomenon was also noticed-the greatest increase in most traits was observed between the 3rd and 6th week of life, which coincides with the time of feed change. We hope that our work will highlight how important the digestive system is for birds because research on this topic is limited.

The Impact of Tannic Acid Consumption on Bone Mineralization.

Tannic acid (TA) is an organic compound belonging to the tannin group. Like other tannins, it has an affinity for endogenous proteins, including digestive enzymes, which can result in the reduced digestibility and absorption of nutrients. It can also form complexes with mineral components, reducing their absorption. In some cases, this can be beneficial, such as in the case of toxic metals, but sometimes it may have a detrimental effect on the body when it involves essential mineral components like Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, or Fe. Therefore, the impact of TA on bone health should be considered from both perspectives. This relatively short review summarizes the available information and research findings on TA, with a particular focus on its potential impact on bone health. It is worth noting that future research and clinical studies may provide more detailed and precise information on this topic, allowing for a better understanding of the role of TA in maintaining the integrity of the musculoskeletal system. Despite its brevity, this paper represents a valuable contribution to the analysis of the potential benefits and challenges associated with TA in the context of bone health. We anticipate that future research will continue along this important research line, expanding our knowledge of the influence of this compound on the skeletal system and its potential therapeutic applications.

Effects of Anticoccidial Vaccination and Taraxacum officinale Extract on the Growth Performance, Biochemical Parameters, Immunity, and Intestinal Morphology of Eimeria-Challenged Chickens.

A total of 160 Ross 308 male chickens were used in a 2 × 2 factorial design to examine the effects of anticoccidial vaccination (ACV; lack or 1× dose recommended by the manufacturer) and dietary supplementation with Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) extract (DE; with or without) on growth performance, immunity, biochemical parameters, and intestinal morphology in broiler chickens challenged with Eimeria spp. At 20 days of age, all birds were challenged with a 25× dose of ACV, including Eimeria acervulina, E. maxima, E. mitis, and E. tenella. No interaction between ACV and DE was observed in terms of growth performance. Vaccinated birds showed increased feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the 11-20 day period. Meanwhile, DE supplementation led to decreased FI and body weight gain (BWG) during the 1-10 day period. ACV effectively induced immunity against Eimeria, as evidenced by reduced oocyst shedding and less intestinal lesions, decreased levels of pro-inflammatory interleukin-6, and improved BWG during both the post infection (PI) period (21-35 days) and the entire growth period. DE supplementation lowered FCR and increased BWG during the 35-42 day period, increased the concentration of butyric acid in the cecal digesta, and lowered oocyst shedding PI. In vaccinated birds, DE elevated levels of plasma total protein and immunoglobulin M, and influenced tight junction proteins zonula occludens-1 and claudin-3, indicating a more robust epithelial barrier. DE also lowered alanine aminotransferase activity in unvaccinated birds. Both ACV and DE independently improved intestinal morphology in the jejunum, decreasing crypt depth and increasing the villus height-to-crypt ratio. These findings suggest that both ACV and DE could be effective strategies for managing coccidiosis in broiler chickens.

Kidney morphology and renal expression of aquaporins 2, 3 and 4 during cerulein - Induced chronic pancreatitis in pigs.

PURPOSE: Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is associated with serious complications and reduced quality of life. Kidney failure is a frequent complication of acute pancreatitis (AP), however limited information is available regarding the impact of CP on this condition. In the kidney, 9 aquaporins (AQPs) are expressed to maintain body water homeostasis and concentrate urine. The purpose of this study was to morphologically assess and analyze the location and expression of AQP2, AQP3 and AQP4 and determine whether CP affects renal structure and expression of AQPs in collecting duct (CD) principal cells. MATERIALS/METHODS: CP was induced in domestic pigs through intramuscular injections of cerulein (1 â€‹µg/kg â€‹bw/day for 6 days; n â€‹= â€‹5); pigs without CP (n â€‹= â€‹5) were used as a control group. Kidney samples were collected 6 weeks after the last injection and subjected to histological examination. Expression of AQPs was determined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. RESULTS: The kidneys of animals with CP exhibited moderate changes, including glomerular enlargement, increased collagen percentage, numerous stromal erythrorrhages and inflammatory infiltrations compared to control group. Although the total abundance of AQP2 in the CD decreased in pigs after cerulein administration, the difference was not statistically significant. Expression of AQP3 and AQP4 was limited to the basolateral membrane of the CD cells. AQP4 abundance remained relatively stable in both groups, while AQP3 expression increased nearly three-fold in pigs with CP. CONCLUSION: This study identified morphological alterations and a statistically significant increase in the expression of renal AQP3 when pigs developed CP.

Analysis of Morphological Traits, Mineralization, and Mechanical Properties of Femoral Bones in Young and Adult European Hares (Lepus europaeus).

Lagomorphs, which include hares, rabbits, and pikas, are herbivorous animals renowned for their exceptional running abilities. The femur, the largest and strongest bone in their bodies, plays a crucial role in supporting their weight and facilitating movement. This study aimed to investigate the structural and functional changes in the femora of hares during their development in a sex-dependent manner, and the influence of aging on femur structure and function. Various mechanical properties, including stiffness and strength, as well as densitometry and morphology, were evaluated. The study was conducted on n = 24 hares collected from a hunting district in the Lublin region of Poland and divided into four groups: young females, adult females, young males and adult males (n = 6 animals each). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to measure bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD), and a three-point bending test was performed to assess mechanical properties. The findings revealed age-related differences in bone properties, with adult males exhibiting increased BMC, and BMD compared to young males. Geometrical properties of the femora mid-diaphysis, such as cortical index and cross-sectional area, remained relatively unchanged during maturation. Regarding mechanical properties, the femora of young males exhibited higher elastic work compared to those of young females, while the femora of adult males exhibited higher elastic and breaking work than those of adult females. The stiffness of femora was higher in adult females compared to young females. The results provide insights into the development and aging of hare femora and contribute to our understanding of the relationship between bone mechanical properties, musculoskeletal system, and aging in the wild. This knowledge can inform animal husbandry practices in captivity and enhance our broader understanding of the ecological functions of lagomorphs.

Maternal acrylamide exposure changes intestinal epithelium, immunolocalization of leptin and ghrelin and their receptors, and gut barrier in weaned offspring.

Acrylamide (ACR) is an amide formed as a byproduct in many heat-processed starchy-rich foods. In utero ACR exposure has been associated with restricted fetal growth, but its effects of postnatal functional development of small intestine is completely unknown. The current study investigated the time- and segment-dependent effects of prenatal ACR exposure on morphological and functional development of small intestine in weaned rat offspring. Four groups of pregnant female Wistar rats were exposed to ACR (3 mg/kg b.w./day) for 0, 5, 10 and 15 days during pregnancy. Basal intestinal morphology, immunolocalization of gut hormones responsible for food intake and proteins of intestinal barrier, activity of the intestinal brush border disaccharidases, apoptosis and proliferation in intestinal mucosa were analyzed in offspring at weaning (postnatal day 21). The results showed that in utero ACR exposure disturbs offspring gut structural and functional postnatal development in a time- and segment-depended manner and even a short prenatal exposure to ACR resulted in changes in intestinal morphology, immunolocalization of leptin and ghrelin and their receptors, barrier function, activity of gut enzymes and upregulation of apoptosis and proliferation. In conclusion, prenatal ACR exposure disturbed the proper postnatal development of small intestine.

Repetitive Cerulein-Induced Chronic Pancreatitis in Growing Pigs-A Pilot Study.

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is an irreversible and progressive inflammatory disease. Knowledge on the development and progression of CP is limited. The goal of the study was to define the serum profile of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the cell antioxidant defense system (superoxidase dismutase-SOD, and reduced glutathione-GSH) over time in a cerulein-induced CP model and explore the impact of these changes on selected cytokines in the intestinal mucosa and pancreatic tissue, as well as on selected serum biochemical parameters. The mRNA expression of CLDN1 and CDH1 genes, and levels of Claudin-1 and E-cadherin, proteins of gut barrier, in the intestinal mucosa were determined via western blot analysis. The study showed moderate pathomorphological changes in the pigs' pancreas 43 days after the last cerulein injection. Blood serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1-beta, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGTP), SOD and GSH were increased following cerulein injections. IL-1-beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha and GSH were also increased in jejunal mucosa and pancreatic tissue. In duodenum, decreased mRNA expression of CDH1 and level of E-cadherin and increased D-lactate, an indicator of leaky gut, indicating an inflammatory state, were observed. Based on the current results, we can conclude that repetitive cerulein injections in growing pigs not only led to CP over time, but also induced inflammation in the intestine. As a result of the inflammation, the intestinal barrier was impaired.

Basal Intestinal Morphology, Immunolocalization of Leptin and Ghrelin and Their Receptors in Newborn Wistar Rats after Prenatal Exposure to Fumonisins.

Animal feed is very frequently contaminated with different types of mold, the metabolites of which are toxic to living organisms. Mold-contaminated cereal is rich in heat-resistant and harmful metabolites such as fumonisins (FBs). The amount of FBs consumed as part of animal feed, including livestock feed, is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of maternal oral FB intoxication on basal duodenum morphology and the immunolocalization of gut hormones responsible for food intake (leptin and ghrelin), as well as their receptors, in newborn rat offspring. Pregnant Wistar rats were randomly allocated to one of three groups: a control group or one of two FB-intoxicated groups (60 or 90 mg FB/kg b.w., respectively). Basal morphological duodenal parameters changed in a dose- and sex-dependent manner. The intensity of the ghrelin immunoreaction was unchanged in females, while in males it increased after FB exposure (60 mg/kg b.w.), with a simultaneous decrease in expression of the ghrelin receptor. Leptin and its receptor immunoreaction intensity was decreased in both sexes following FB exposure. The current study highlighted the potential involvement of intestinal ghrelin and leptin in the metabolic disturbances observed later in life in offspring that were prenatally exposed to fumonisins.

Prenatal Fumonisin Exposure Impairs Bone Development via Disturbances in the OC/Leptin and RANKL/RANK/OPG Systems in Weaned Rat Offspring.

The goal of the current study was to examine the effects of prenatal exposure to fumonisins (FBs) on bone properties and metabolism in weaned rat offspring divided into groups intoxicated with FBs at either 0 (the 0 FB group), 60 (the 60 FB group), or 90 mg/kg b.w. 0 (the 90 FB group). Female and male offspring exposed to FBs at a dose of 60 mg/kg b.w. had heavier femora. Mechanical bone parameters changed in a sex and FBs dose-dependent manner. Growth hormone and osteoprotegerin decreased in both sexes, regardless of FBs dose. In males osteocalcin decreased, while receptor activator for nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand increased regardless of FBs dose; while in females changes were dose dependent. Leptin decreased in both male FBs-intoxicated groups, bone alkaline phosphatase decreased only in the 60 FB group. Matrix metalloproteinase-8 protein expression increased in both female FBs-intoxicated groups and decreased in male 90 FB group. Osteoprotegerin and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 protein expression decreased in males, regardless of FBs dose, while nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand expression increased only in the 90 FB group. The disturbances in bone metabolic processes seemed to result from imbalances in the RANKL/RANK/OPG and the OC/leptin systems.

Effect of Fermented Rapeseed Meal in Feeds for Growing Piglets on Bone Morphological Traits, Mechanical Properties, and Bone Metabolism.

Quality feed is essential for correct bone development and proper functioning of animals. Post-weaned piglets experience a radical change in eating behaviour that can influence their feed intake. For this reason, functional feed additives and ingredients that can be used in post-weaning feeds are needed. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of partially replacing wheat with rapeseed meal fermented using Bacillus subtilis strain 87Y on overall bone quality and bone metabolism in weaner piglets. From the 28th day of life, barrows were fed either a standard wheat-based diet or a diet containing 8% fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM) with or without a feed additive containing enzymes, antioxidants, probiotics, and prebiotics. The experimental period lasted 60 days, after which femur quality indices were assessed. Differences in bone length and weight were observed, but there were no changes in bone mineralization or bone mid-diaphysis morphometrical traits between treatments. FRSM inclusion reduced bone mid-diaphysis biomechanical properties, but these changes were dependent on feed-additive supplementation. Analysis of the levels of serum bone turnover markers suggests the intensification of bone resorption in FRSM-fed groups as deoxypyridinoline levels increase. The results obtained warrant further research on what the disturbances in bone mechanical properties and metabolism observed in FRSM-fed weaners means for the subsequent fattening period.

Expression of Genes Encoding Selected Orexigenic and Anorexigenic Peptides and Their Receptors in the Organs of the Gastrointestinal Tract of Calves and Adult Domestic Cattle (Bos taurus taurus).

The regulation of food intake occurs at multiple levels, and two of the components of this process are orexigenic and anorexigenic peptides, which stimulate or inhibit appetite, respectively. The study of the function of these compounds in domestic cattle is essential for production efficiency, animal welfare, and health, as well as for economic benefits, environmental protection, and the contribution to a better understanding of physiological aspects that can be applied to other species. In this study, the real-time PCR method was utilized to determine the expression levels of GHRL, GHSR, SMIM20, GPR173, LEP, LEPR, and NUCB2 (which encode ghrelin, its receptor, phoenixin-14, its receptor, leptin, its receptor, and nesfatin-1, respectively) in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of Polish Holstein-Friesian breed cattle. In all analyzed GIT segments, mRNA for all the genes was present in both age groups, confirming their significance in these tissues. Gene expression levels varied distinctly across different GIT segments and between young and mature subjects. The differences between calves and adults were particularly pronounced in areas such as the forestomachs, ileum, and jejunum, indicating potential changes in peptides regulating food intake based on the developmental phase. In mature individuals, the forestomachs predominantly displayed an increase in GHRL expression, while the intestines had elevated levels of GHSR, GPR173, LEP, and NUCB2. In contrast, the forestomachs in calves showed upregulated expressions of LEP, LEPR, and NUCB2, highlighting the potential importance of peptides from these genes in bovine forestomach development.

An Analysis of the Plant- and Animal-Based Hydrocolloids as Byproducts of the Food Industry.

Hydrocolloids are naturally occurring polysaccharides or proteins, which are used to gelatinize, modify texture, and thicken food products, and are also utilized in edible films and drug capsule production. Moreover, several hydrocolloids are known to have a positive impact on human health, including prebiotics rich in bioactive compounds. In this paper, plant-derived hydrocolloids from arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea), kuzu (Pueraria montana var lobata), Sassafras tree (Sassafras albidum) leaves, sugarcane, acorn, and animal-derived gelatin have been reviewed. Hydrocolloid processing, utilization, physicochemical activities, composition, and health benefits have been described. The food industry generates waste such as plant parts, fibers, residue, scales, bones, fins, feathers, or skin, which are often discarded back into the environment, polluting it or into landfills, where they provide no use and generate transport and storage costs. Food industry waste frequently contains useful compounds, which can yield additional income if acquired, thus decreasing the environmental pollution. Despite conventional manufacturing, the aforementioned hydrocolloids can be recycled as byproducts, which not only minimizes waste, lowers transportation and storage expenses, and boosts revenue, but also enables the production of novel, functional, and healthy food additives for the food industry worldwide.

Assessing Bone Health Status and Eggshell Quality of Laying Hens at the End of a Production Cycle in Response to Inclusion of a Hybrid Rye to a Wheat-Corn Diet.

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether there are negative effects of the partial replacement of white corn with rye along with xylanase supplementation on overall bone quality, eggshell mineralization, and mechanical strength in laying hens. From the 26th week of life, ISA Brown laying hens were fed either a wheat-corn diet or a diet containing 25% rye, with or without xylanase. The experimental period lasted for 25 weeks, until birds reached their 50th week of age, after which bone and eggshell quality indices were assessed. Eggshell thickness and eggshell Ca content of eggs from rye-fed hens were improved by xylanase supplementation. No differences in the mechanical properties of the eggshells were observed between treatments, except for the diet-dependent changes in egg deformation. Rye inclusion had no effect on the mechanical properties of bone. Xylanase supplementation, irrespective of the diet, had a positive effect on bone strength and increased tibia Ca content, as well as the content of several microelements. Hence, hybrid rye combined with wheat can replace 25% of corn in layer diets without compromising shell quality or bone mineral content. Xylanase supplementation in these diets is recommended since its inclusion improves both bone strength and quality.

Effect of Adropin on Pancreas Exocrine Function in a Rat Model: A Preliminary Study.

The aim was to investigate the potential effect of adropin (ADR) on pancreatic−biliary juice (PBJ) secretion (volume, protein content, trypsin activity) in a rat model. The animals were divided into control and five experimental groups: adropin, CCK-8 (CCK-8 stimulation), capsaicin (capsaicin deactivation of afferents), vagotomy (vagotomy procedure), and vagal stimulation (vagal nerve stimulation). The experiment consisted of four phases, during which vehicle (0.9% NaCl) and three ADR boluses (5, 10, and 20 µg/kg BW) were administered i.v. every 30 min. PBJ samples were collected from each rat at 15 min intervals after boluses. Exogenous ADR failed to affect the pancreatic responses after vagotomy and the capsaicin pretreatment and reduced the PBJ volume, protein outputs, and trypsin activity in the adropin, CCK-8, and vagal stimulation groups in a dose-dependent manner. In all these groups, volume of PBJ was reduced only by the highest dose of ADR (p < 0.001 for adropin group and p < 0.01 for CCK-8 and vagal stimulation groups), and the protein outputs were reduced by the administration of ADR 10 µg/kg BW (adropin and CCK-8 groups, p < 0.01 in both cases) and 20 µg/kg BW (p < 0.001 for adropin and CCK-8 groups, p < 0.01 for vagal stimulation group). The 10 µg/kg BW dose of ADR reduced the trypsin output in the CCK-8 group (p < 0.01), and the highest ADR dose reduced the trypsin output in the CCK-8 (p < 0.001) and vagal stimulation (p < 0.01) groups. In conclusion, adropin in the analyzed doses exhibits the negative feedback pathway. This mechanism seems to participate in the regulation of pancreatic juice secretion via an indirect vagal mechanism.