Effects of dietary boron supplementation on some biochemical parameters, peripheral blood lymphocytes, splenic plasma cells and bone characteristics of broiler chicks given diets with adequate or inadequate cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) content

Hematological parameters of sheep and goats fed diets containing various amounts of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)

A major global barrier to increased animal output is nutrition. The use of aquatic plants, which were previously considered to be waste and needed a lot of labor to eliminate, has recently come to light due to the lack of feed during the dry season in the majority of tropical regions of Africa. The objectives of this study were therefore to see how different dietary Eichhornia crassipise inclusion rates affect the hematological indicators of Ethiopian Doyogena sheep and Woyto-Guji goats. Blood samples were taken from the jugular veins of 12 Doyogena sheep and 12 Woyto-Guji goats in a 2 × 4 randomized crossover design with two animal species, four diets, and four random periods (15 - day adaption period followed by a 7- day experimental diet in each period). The dietary inclusion rates E. crassipise were 0, 25, 50, and 75% that was used as a replacement for commercial concentrate mix diet in the treatment groups. The data was analyzed using the SAS software programme PROC GLM, and Pearson's correlation coefficient was calculated between hematological markers. The hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell count (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCHC) results revealed substantial, RDW-SD, and WBC differences between animal species (P < 0.001). Sheep had greater WBC, Hb, RBC, PCV, RDW-SD, and RDW-CV levels, while goats had higher MCH and MCHC values (P < 0.001). For the analyzed hematological measures, the Pearson's correlation coefficient ranged from low to strong in terms of positive and negative associations (P < 0.05). Since all hematological indicators were closer to those of clinically healthy native Ethiopian sheep and goat breeds, feeding water hyacinth to sheep and goats up to a 75% inclusion level in diets without producing sickness may provide a remedy for adverse feed shortages.

Effects of L-arginine, guanidinoacetic acid and L-citrulline supplementation in reduced-protein diets on bone morphology and mineralization of laying hens

The alterations in feed ingredients and the nutrient matrix to produce reduced-protein diets may affect bone morphology and mineralization in laying hens. This study was implemented to determine the effects of L-arginine (Arg), guanidinoacetic acid (GAA), and L-citrulline (Cit) supplementation to Arg-deficient reduced-protein diets on bone morphology, strength, and mineralization status of laying hens. Individually housed Hy-Line Brown laying hens were evenly distributed to five dietary treatments with 25 replicates per treatment from 20 to 40 wk of age. Treatments consisted of a standard protein diet (17% crude protein, SP), a reduced-protein diet deficient in Arg (13% crude protein, RP), and RP supplemented with Arg (0.35% Arg, RP-Arg), GAA (0.46% GAA equivalent to 0.35% Arg, RP-GAA), or Cit (0.35% Cit equivalent to 0.35% Arg, RP-Cit) to reach the Arg level of SP diets. Birds fed the SP diet had similar bone weight, ash, length, width, Seedor index, breaking strength, and serum mineral concentration, but higher toe B level (P < 0.001) compared to those fed the RP diet at wk 40. Birds fed the SP diet consumed more but also excreted more K and B compared to those fed the RP diet (P < 0.01). Birds fed the SP diet had lower Cu digestibility (P = 0.01) and higher B retention (P < 0.01) compared to those offered the RP diet. Supplementation of Arg, GAA, and Cit to the RP diet increased relative femur weight and length (P < 0.001). Citrulline supplementation also increased relative tibia and femur ash, and Zn digestibility (P < 0.05). Supplementation of GAA to the RP diet decreased serum Ca, P, and Mg levels, decreased tibia Fe and Mg levels and toe Mg level, but increased Al, Fe, Zn, and Mn digestibility (P < 0.05). The current findings demonstrated the capacity of laying hens to adapt to low mineral intake by increasing mineral utilization. Overall, bone morphology and breaking strength, and serum mineral level in laying hens were not influenced by dietary CP levels. Dietary Arg, GAA, or Cit supplementation were effective in improving bone morphology and mineralization in laying hens fed Arg-deficient RP diets.

The effects of boron on some biochemical parameters: A review

BACKGROUND

Boron; It is used mainly in glass and ceramics, in the defense industry, in jet and rocket fuel, as a disinfectant, and even in the agricultural sector to increase or prevent vegetation development. Its use in the health field has become more widespread when studies in recent years are reviewed. Although it has been reported that boron has essential biological effects on minerals, some enzymes, and hormones, the mechanism of these biological effects has yet to be fully elucidated. This review aims to bring a new perspective to researchers by combining the results of experimental studies in the literature on the effects of boron on some biochemical parameters.

METHODS

Works of literature on boron were brought together using more than one database (WOS, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar). The animal, boron type and dose used in the experimental study, and biochemical parameters (glucose, urea, BUN (blood urea nitrogen), uric acid, creatinine, creatine kinase, blood lipid profile, minerals, liver function tests) were systematically compiled.

RESULTS

It was observed that the studies mainly focused on glucose and lipid profiles and had a lowering effect on these parameters. From a mineral point of view, the studies are mostly related to the bone matrix.

CONCLUSION

Although the mechanism of action of boron on biochemical parameters has not yet been clarified, it would be beneficial to examine its relationship with hormones in more depth. A good understanding and analysis of the effect of boron, which is widely used, on biochemical parameters will be beneficial in taking necessary precautions for human and environmental health.

The effects of in ovo injected with sodium borate on hatching performance and small intestine morphology in broiler chicks

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of in ovo injection of sodium borate on hatching power, chick weight, chick length in fertile broiler eggs. A total of 256 fertile broiler eggs were incubated in the study. On Day 18 of incubation, two groups were injected with 0.1 mL of 0.5 mg and 1 mg of sodium borate dissolved in saline, and two groups were used as sham control (injected with 0.1 mL of saline) and uninjected control. Hatching power was apparently increased (P ≤ 0.05) by in ovo injection of sodium borate (0.5 mg) rather than control groups and sodium borate (1 mg) group. While there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of chick weights, a significant difference was found between group B and other experimental groups in terms of chick length (P < 0.05). In ovo sodium borate injection (0.5 mg) had a positive effect on villus length, crypt width, villus absorption surface (HASA), and the number of proliferating cell nuclear antigen positive crypt cells.

Recent Trends in Hydroxyapatite Supplementation for Osteoregenerative Purposes

Bone regeneration has gained attention in the biomedical field, which has led to the development of materials and synthesis methods meant to improve osseointegration and cellular bone activity. The properties of hydroxyapatite, a type of calcium phosphate, have been researched to determine its advantages for bone tissue engineering, particularly its biocompatibility and ability to interact with bone cells. Recently, the advantages of utilizing nanomolecules of hydroxyapatite, combined with various substances, in order to enhance and combine their characteristics, have been reported in the literature. This review will outline the cellular and molecular roles of hydroxypatite, its interactions with bone cells, and its nano-combinations with various ions and natural products and their effects on bone growth, development, and bone repair.

Effect of Boron Supplementation on Nutrient Utilization and Productive Performance of Peripartum Murrah Buffaloes

Boron (B) has been established as a beneficial micronutrient for some farm animals. However, its impact on coping negative energy balance during transition and subsequent production performance needs critical perusal. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to determine the effect of B supplementation on productive performance, apparent nitrogen (N), and mineral utilization in peripartum Murrah buffaloes. Thirty advanced pregnant buffaloes (60 days prior to expected date of calving) were allocated into three groups, i.e. control, B-200, and B-400, and supplemented with pharmacological concentration of B at 0, 200, and 400 ppm, respectively, from 45 days prior to expected date of calving till 120 days post calving. Two metabolism trials were conducted (with animals having similar expected date of calving), one during prepartum (30 days prior to the expected date of calving) and another during postpartum (90 days post calving) phase to evaluate nutrient utilization and balance of N as well as minerals. Results revealed that B supplementation decreased (P < 0.05) overall plasma nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), whereas plasma level of β-hydroxybutyric acid, insulin, triglyceride, and glucose did not differ (P > 0.05) among the groups. Dry matter intake, nutrient digestibility, and N balance remained unaffected with B supplementation. Higher (P < 0.05) apparent absorption coefficient for magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn) was observed in pregnant animals, while during lactation, absorption coefficient of calcium, Mg, and Zn was increased (P < 0.05) in B-supplemented groups. Hence, it can be concluded that alteration in NEFA concentration and variation in apparent absorption coefficient of minerals with B supplementation suggest its role in energy and mineral metabolism. However, further investigations are required to determine the underlying mechanism of action for the present findings.

Assessment of Rats Fed Protein-Deficient Diets Supplemented with Moringa Oleifera Leaf Meal

This report is part of a larger study on bioavailability of nutrients in Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOLM) grown in South Africa. Albino male rats were assigned into five groups each having a replicate of five; PD-protein deficient diet, PD3, PD5 and PD10 had protein insufficient diets augmented with MOLM at 3, 5 and 10% respectively, while control (C)- was fed normal rat chow, for 28 days. Growth performances were recorded weekly, blood biochemistry and histopathology of the animals were evaluated in the serum and selected organs respectively. Severe loss in body weight caused by PD was slightly ameliorated by MOLM supplementation; improved protein quality indicated by higher red blood cells count was noticed in animals fed the augmented diets, while decrease in lymphocytes count reflected possible leucopoiesis and immunomodulatory effect of MOLM. High platelet counts (807.5 x109/L-1011.27x109/L) could indicate secondary anaemia caused by PD, while decrease in calcium and total protein was improved by MOLM. Increase in creatinine for all treatments could imply that kidney function was compromised. Serum ALP, ALT and AST activities were down regulated significantly in animals fed MOLM diets, suggesting organ-protective properties of Moringa. Histopathological evaluation of organs supported the biochemical findings and confirmed the negative effect of dietary protein deficiency. Although MOLM is nutrient-rich, unprocessed MOLM impacted negatively on physiology of the rats and could not completely replace protein in the diet.

Strategy for Local Plant-Based Material Valorisation to Higher-Value Feed Stock for Piglets

In this study, a 41-day experiment was conducted using 300 (21-day-old) Large White/Norwegian Landrace piglets (100 piglets in each group). Three dietary treatments were compared: (i) a basal diet (C-I), (ii) a basal diet with the addition of extruded-fermented wheat bran (Wex130/screwspeed25Lpa) (TG-II), and (iii) a basal diet with the addition of dried sugar beet pulp (TG-III). Analyses of piglets' blood parameters, faecal microbial and physico-chemical characteristics, and piglets' growth performance were performed. It was found that the extrusion and fermentation combination led to an additional functional value of Wex130/screwspeed25Lpa, which showed desirable antimicrobial and antifungal properties in vitro (inhibited 5 out of 10 tested pathogenic strains and 3 out of 11 tested fungi). Both treatments reduced total enterobacteria and increased lactic acid bacteria counts in piglets' faeces. The consistency of the piglets' faeces (in all three groups) was within a physiological range throughout the whole experiment. Strong positive correlations were found between the LAB count in piglets' faeces and butanoic acid; butanoic acid, 3-methyl-; butyric acid (2-methyl-); pentanoic acid. The treatment groups obtained a significantly higher body weight gain and average daily gain. Finally, substituting the piglets' diet with Wex130/screwspeed25Lpa and sugar beet pulp led to favourable changes in micro-organism populations in the piglets' faeces as well as better growth performance.

Effect of boron supplementation on laying performance of White Leghorn hens fed diet with and without adequate level of calcium

This study was conducted in White Leghorn layers to ascertain the effect of boron (B) supplementation to calcium (Ca) inadequate diet under standard managemental practices. A total of 80 commercial White Leghorn hens, 25 weeks old with a uniform body weight, were randomly assigned to one of the 4 groups of 20 hens/replicates in each dietary group viz., normal calcium (NC)/Ca adequate, low calcium (LC)/Ca-inadequate, normal calcium with 40 ppm B (NCB) and low calcium with 40 ppm B (LCB). Dietary level of Ca was maintained at two levels, 100 (normal) and 90% (inadequate) of the requirement. Supplementation of B at 40 ppm improved (P < 0.01) egg production of layers from third month of trial as compared to un-supplemented group. Feed conversion ratio of layers was positively (P < 0.05) influenced by B supplementation in Ca-inadequate diet. Egg shell thickness of layers was found to be higher (P < 0.001) in groups supplemented 40 ppm B, irrespective of the level of Ca in the diets. Cracked egg production was also significantly (P < 0.01) lower in B-supplemented groups compared to Ca-inadequate group. Boron supplementation improved Ca retention irrespective of dietary Ca level. Low-Ca diet without boron supplementation resulted in lower retention (P < 0.05) of magnesium and boron. It is concluded that supplementation of 40 ppm B to Ca-inadequate diet ameliorated the lower laying performance in layers and confirms the usefulness of B in such abiotic stress situations.

Effects of dietary hatchery by-products on growth performance, relative organ weight, plasma measurements, immune organ index, meat quality, and tibia characteristics of broiler chickens

Objective

The objective of the current study was to investigate the effects of dietary hatchery by-products (HBPs) as a replacement of fish meal (FM) on growth performance, relative organ weight, plasma measurements, immune organ index, meat quality, and tibia characteristics of broiler chickens.

Methods

A total of 720 broiler chickens (3 d of age) were randomly allotted to 1 of 9 treatments with 8 replicates. Each replicate consisted of 5 male and 5 female birds. The basal diet was formulated to contain 5.0% commercial FM, whereas eight treatment diets were prepared by replacing 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% of FM in the basal diet with infertile eggs (IFE) or a mixture of various HBPs (MIX); therefore, the inclusion levels of IFE or MIX in the experimental diets were 1.25%, 2.50%, 3.75%, or 5.00%. The diets and water were provided on an ad libitum basis for 32 d.

Results

Increasing inclusion levels of IFE as a replacement of FM in diets had no effects on growth performance, plasma measurements, immune organ index, and tibia characteristics of broiler chickens. Increasing inclusion levels of IFE in diets increased (linear, p<0.05) meat lightness (L*) but decreased (linear, p<0.05) meat redness (a*). The breast meat pH at 1-h postmortem was increased (linear, p<0.05) by increasing inclusion levels of IFE in diets. Likewise, increasing inclusion levels of MIX in diets had no effects on growth performance, relative organ weight, plasma measurements, immune organ index, and tibia characteristics. However, increasing inclusion levels of MIX in diets increased (linear, p<0.05) 1-h postmortem pH but decreased (linear, p<0.05) 24-h postmortem pH of breast meat. Increasing inclusion levels of MIX in diets decreased (linear, p<0.05) thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values of breast meat.

Conclusion

Both IFE and MIX are suitable alternatives to FM as protein ingredients in broiler diets.

Boron supplementation in peripartum Murrah buffaloes: The effect on calcium homeostasis, bone metabolism, endocrine and antioxidant status

BACKGROUND

Calcium homeostasis and immuno-endocrine system undergoes drastic changes in peripartum dairy animals and failure to adapt these physiological changes causes major impact on animal health as well as productivity. Boron (B), a newer trace element, influences calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and magnesium (Mg) metabolism as well as immune system by manipulating several hormones or enzyme systems. Present study was conducted to determine the effect of dietary B supplementation on Ca homeostasis, bone metabolism, endocrine and antioxidant status in peripartum Murrah buffaloes.

METHODS

Thirty advanced pregnant Murrah buffaloes (8th month pregnant) were allocated into three groups based on their most probable producing ability (MPPA) and parity (n = 10 in each group) viz. B0, B200 and B400 and supplemented with 0, 200 and 400 ppm of B in the form of boric acid. Blood samples were collected at periodic intervals (-45, -30, -21, -15, -7, 0, 7, 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 day relative to expected date of calving) and analysed for minerals concentration, hormonal profile, bone health biomarkers and antioxidant enzymes.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Boron supplementation at 200 and 400 ppm increased (p < 0.05) plasma Ca, Mg and osteocalcin (OCN) concentration during postpartum stage. Higher (p < 0.05) levels of plasma 25-hydroxy vitamin D₃ were observed in both B supplemented groups as compared to B unsupplemented group irrespective of physiological stages. Plasma parathyroid hormone (PTH) and cortisol levels were lower (p < 0.05) in both B supplemented groups than B unsupplemented group, especially during postpartum stage. Whereas, plasma ferric reducing total antioxidant power (FRAP) activity was found to be higher (p < 0.05) in B supplemented groups as compared to B unsupplemented group. Furthermore, antioxidant enzymes (erythrocytic superoxide dismutase; SOD, catalase, glutathione peroxidase; GPx), plasma level of total immunoglobulins (TIg), bone specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP) and tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) remained unaffected by dietary B supplementation. Overall, it can be concluded that supplementation of B at 200 ppm in the diet of peripartum Murrah buffaloes helped to induce metabolic adaptations for improving Ca homeostasis, bone metabolism and antioxidant status without much additional benefits at higher level used in the present study.

The Effect of Boron-Containing Nano-Hydroxyapatite on Bone Cells

Metabolic diseases or injuries damage bone structure and self-renewal capacity. Trace elements and hydroxyapatite crystals are important in the development of biomaterials to support the renewal of bone extracellular matrix. In this study, it was assumed that the boron-loaded nanometer-sized hydroxyapatite composite supports the construction of extracellular matrix by controlled boron release in order to prevent its toxic effect. In this context, boron release from nanometer-sized hydroxyapatite was calculated by ICP-MS as in large proportion within 1 h and continuing release was provided at a constant low dose. The effect of the boron-containing nanometer-sized hydroxyapatite composite on the proliferation of SaOS-2 osteoblasts and human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells was evaluated by WST-1 and compared with the effects of nano-hydroxyapatite and boric acid. Boron increased proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells at high doses and exhibited different effects on osteoblastic cell proliferation. Boron-containing nano-hydroxyapatite composites increased osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells by increasing alkaline phosphatase activity, when compared to nano-hydroxyapatite composite and boric acid. The molecular mechanism of effective dose of boron-containing hydroxyapatite has been assessed by transcriptomic analysis and shown to affect genes involved in Wnt, TGF-β, and response to stress signaling pathways when compared to nano-hydroxyapatite composite and boric acid. Finally, a safe osteoconductive dose range of boron-containing nano-hydroxyapatite composites for local repair of bone injuries and the molecular effect profile in the effective dose should be determined by further studies to validation of the regenerative therapeutic effect window.

Research Note: Evaluation of boric acid as a chemoprophylaxis candidate to prevent histomoniasis

Histomoniasis, caused by the protozoan parasite Histomonas meleagridis, is a disease to which turkeys are especially susceptible. Currently, no chemoprophylaxis compounds are available to mitigate this disease. Boric acid (BA) exhibits antifungal, antiseptic, and antiviral properties and has been used in the treatment of yeast infections. Based on these characteristics, an experiment was conducted to evaluate whether BA might be an efficacious prophylaxis against challenge with wild-type H. meleagridis (WTH). On day-of-hatch, poults were randomly assigned to either a basal control diet or a BA diet (basal diet + 0.2% BA). Groups consisted of a nonchallenged control (NC; basal diet), 0.2% BA + challenge (BA; 0.2% BA diet), and a positive-challenged control (PC; basal diet). On day 21, challenged groups were intracloacally inoculated with 2 × 10⁵ WTH cells/turkey, and lesions were evaluated on day 14 postchallenge. Individual body weights were recorded on day 0, 21, and 35 to calculate the prechallenge and postchallenge body weight gain (BWG). The BA group resulted in lower prechallenge day 0 to day 21 BWG (P = 0.0001) than the NC group. Postchallenge day 21 to day 35, BWG was also lower (P = 0.0503) in the BA group than the PC group. No differences between the BA and PC groups were detected for mortalities associated with histomoniasis. Moreover, liver and cecal lesions were not statistically different between the BA and PC groups. Taken together, these data suggest that BA was not efficacious in the prevention or reduction of histomoniasis disease severity when provided at 0.2% dietary concentration under these experimental conditions.

Effects of boron-containing compounds on immune responses: review and patenting trends

INTRODUCTION

Boron-containing compounds induce effects on immune responses. Such effects are interesting to the biomedical field for the development of therapeutic tools to modulate the immune system.

AREAS COVERED

The scope of BCC use to modify immune responses is expanding, mainly with regard to inflammatory diseases. The information was organized to demonstrate the breadth of reported effects. BCCs act as modulators of innate and adaptive immunity, with the former including regulation of cluster differentiation and cytokine production. In addition, BCCs exert effects on inflammation induced by infectious and noninfectious agents, and there are also reports regarding their effects on mechanisms involving hypersensitivity and transplants. Finally, the authors discuss the beneficial effects of BCCs on pathologies involving various targets and mechanisms.

EXPERT OPINION

Some BCCs are currently used as drugs in humans. The mechanisms by which these BCCs modulate immune responses, as well as the required structure-activity relationship for each observed mechanism of action, should be clarified. The former will allow for the development of improved immunomodulatory drugs with extensive applications in medicine. Patenting trends involve claims concerning the synthesis and actions of identified molecules with a defined profile regarding cytokines, cell differentiation, proliferation, and antibody production.

Suppressive Role of Boron on Adipogenic Differentiation and Fat Deposition in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Over the past years, adipose tissue has become an invaluable source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) due to development of improved isolation methodologies. In a recent work, our group established a primary culture of human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs), which were characterized for their stem cell characteristics in detail and studied their myogenic differentiation potential in presence of boron. In the current study, we focused on the effects of a boron-containing compound, sodium pentaborate pentahydrate (NaB), on the adipogenic differentiation of hADSCs. Incorporation of boron in various chemical derivates has been a novel interest in drug-discovery attempts due to increasing number of reports on their anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activities. In this report, a striking suppressive activity of boron on adipogenic differentiation of hADSCs is observed in a dose-dependent manner. Higher concentrations of NaB (20, 50, and 100 μg/mL (68, 170 and 340 μM)) resulted in a progressive decrease of lipid deposition, suppressed master regulators of adipogenesis transcriptional programming at the mRNA and protein levels, while having no evident cytotoxicity on the cells. The findings of this study are encouraging to undertake further investigations on potential beneficial effects boron in terms of its impact on normal and dysfunctional adipose biology. In that respect, these results pave the path to evaluate boron-based compounds in prevention and treatment of obesity which is a modern age pandemic that is predominant worldwide and found in strong association with comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cancers, and others."

The Physiological Role of Boron on Health

Boron is an essential mineral that plays an important role in several biological processes. Boron is required for growth of plants, animals, and humans. There are increasing evidences of this nutrient showing a variety of pleiotropic effects, ranging from anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects to the modulation of different body systems. In the past few years, the trials showed disease-related polymorphisms of boron in different species, which has drawn attention of scientists to the significance of boron to health. Low boron profile has been related with poor immune function, increased risk of mortality, osteoporosis, and cognitive deterioration. High boron status revealed injury to cell and toxicity in different animals and humans. Some studies have shown some benefits of higher boron status, but findings have been generally mixed, which perhaps accentuates the fact that dietary intake will benefit only if supplemental amount is appropriate. The health benefits of boron are numerous in animals and humans; for instance, it affects the growth at safe intake. Central nervous system shows improvement and immune organs exhibit enhanced immunity with boron supplementation. Hepatic metabolism also shows positive changes in response to dietary boron intake. Furthermore, animals and human fed diets supplemented with boron reveal improved bone density and other benefits including embryonic development, wound healing, and cancer therapy. It has also been reported that boron affects the metabolism of several enzymes and minerals. In the background of these health benefits, low or high boron status is giving cause for concern. Additionally, researches are needed to further elucidate the mechanisms of boron effects, and determine the requirements in different species.

The effects of various levels of boron supplementation on live weight, plasma lipid peroxidation, several biochemical and tissue antioxidant parameters of male mice**: Effects of boron on performance, antioxidant and some metabolits of mice

In this study, live weight, live weight gain, plasma GPx, GR, LDH, ALT activities, triglyceride, total protein, albumin and LPO levels, also liver and brain SOD and GPx activities were investigated after administration of boron (0.10, 0.20 and 0.30 mg/day) into male mice with drinking water for 60 days. Blood albumin and triglyceride levels were not affected with boron (p > 0.05) where triglyceride levels, with increasing amounts of boron, displayed a slight decrease within the normal ranges. From the antioxidant-oxidant balance parameters, LPO and GR levels were not affected from boron, where GPx activity was increased significantly (p < 0.001) comparing the groups of boron and control. LDH and ALT activities were affected significantly (p < 0.001) with decreased ALT and increased LDH levels with increasing amounts of boron. In regards of liver and brain GPx and SOD activities, significant increases were determined. Liver GPx and SOD activities were increased within the groups with the increasing amount of boron, where in brain, SOD (p < 0.05) was affected significantly but GPx (p > 0.05) displayed a gradual insignificant increase. As regards live weight gain, a gradual increase was determined during experimental period, but only the 45th day, the increase was statistically significant (p < 0.05). It is suggested that, new studies on the effects of different doses and compounds of boron in laboratory animals in regards of antioxidant and metabolic effects may be helpful for the understanding of the subject.

BORON PREPARATIONS IN PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROLOGY: THEIR RISE, FALL AND RENEWED INTEREST

The use of boron preparations (borax and boric acid) in medicine began long before their isolation in pure form. The mineral water of  boron-containing sources has been historically used to treat skin  diseases, to wash eyes, to disinfect wounds, etc. Also, what is of  interest in the context of this article, boron-containing waters were  used as calming, anti- anxiety, anticonvulsant and sleep-promoting  remedy. In 1777, boric acid was first isolated from the mineral water of a healing spring source in Florence. Historically, first name  of this compound was sal sedativum (“soothing salt”). However, the  discovery of boron toxicity led to the cessation of its internal use. In  recent decades, it has been found that boron is a microelement  necessary for many metabolic processes in the body. It affects  memory, cognitive functions, anxiety level, sleep, mood, regulates  calcium and magnesium exchange, metabolism of vitamin D and sex  steroids. It has been shown that some cases of treatment  resistance to standard therapy, for example in epilepsy, anxiety and depression, are related to boron deficiency. In this regard,  interest in the use of boron preparations in psychiatry and neurology, but in much smaller doses and on new scientific grounds, flared up again.

Safety assessment of antibiotic and probiotic feed additives for Gallus gallus domesticus

Antibiotics in feed select for resistant strains and is thus a threat to human health. In this study, the effect of a multi-strain probiotic and antibiotics on the growth and health of broilers was studied. Equal numbers of broilers received on a daily basis either a multi-strain probiotic or a combination of sulphadiazine, colistin and trimethoprim, whereas the control group received standard feed. The villi of immature broilers (19 days old) administered antibiotics had a larger surface area and their lymphocyte and basophil counts were higher compared to broilers from the probiotic and control groups. The cecal microbiomes of mature broilers (29 days old) that received probiotics had higher levels of Enterobacteriaceae, but lower numbers of Clostridiales, Brucellaceae, Synergistaceae, Erysipelotrichaceae and Coriobacteriaceae compared to the antibiotic-treated group. A decline in the bioluminescence of Listeria monocytogenes observed for broilers on probiotics suggested that the probiotic may be used to control bacterial infections. No significant differences in total red blood cell, haemoglobin and haematocrit content, and mean values for corpuscular volume, corpuscular haemoglobin and corpuscular haemoglobin numbers were recorded amongst broilers from the different treatment groups. This study provides valuable information on the health and performance of broilers when administered probiotics and antibiotics as additives.

Trace element concentrations in livers of Common Buzzards Buteo buteo from eastern Poland

In this study, our aim was to determine the common sources of origin of 18 elements in the livers of Common Buzzards collected during the breeding season in an extensive agricultural landscape in south-east Poland with respect to age (adults and immatures) and sex (males and females). In all 34 specimens collected, the element concentrations followed the pattern of S > Na > Fe > Mg > Zn > Si > Cu > Mn > Ba > Se > B > Pb > Hg > Cd > Cr > Ni > Sr > V. Among the heavy metals examined, only the concentration of Pb was relatively high. Given the prevalence of farmland in the studied area (and the wide use of fertilizers), common use of lead-hunting ammunition and moderate concentration of Pb in fertilizers, the indirect influence of hunting ammunition ingested with food or as gastroliths was apparently responsible for the elevated levels of Pb in the livers of Common Buzzards. In our study, no significant sex-related differences were detected in the hepatic concentrations of any element. However, a significant age effect was observed for three elements, which had elevated levels in adults (Hg) and immature birds (B, Pb), and a significant age x sex interaction was found for S and Fe. These results might be explained by the importance of these elements in bone growth in immature birds (B), variable strategies of foraging between adults and immature birds (Pb), and possible intersex differences in the immature cohort in response to the presence of lead (S, Fe).

Effect of dietary calcium concentrations in low non-phytate phosphorus diets containing phytase on growth performance, bone mineralization, litter quality, and footpad dermatitis incidence in growing broiler chickens

Objective

An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary Ca concentrations in low non-phytate phosphorus (NPP) diets containing phytase on growth performance, bone mineralization, litter quality, and footpad dermatitis (FPD) incidence in growing broiler chickens.

Methods

A total of 1,800 21-day-old Ross 308 growing broiler chickens were allotted to 1 of 6 dietary treatments with 6 replicated cages. Six diets were formulated to provide increasing Ca concentrations of 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, or 9.0 g/kg in diets. The concentrations of NPP in all diets were maintained at 3.0 g/kg, and phytase was supplemented to all diets at the level of 1,000 fytase units (FTU)/kg. At the end of the 14-d feeding trial, birds were euthanized for tibia sampling, and litter samples were collected from 3 areas in the cage. The FPD incidence was measured based on a 6-point scoring system.

Results

Dietary Ca concentrations had no effect on growth performance of growing broiler chickens. However, a tendency (linear, p = 0.05) for decreased feed efficiency was observed as dietary Ca concentrations were increased. The concentrations of Ca and P in the tibia of broiler chickens increased (linear and quadratic, p<0.01) with increasing Ca concentrations in low NPP diets containing phytase. Litter pH, moisture, and N contents were not affected by increasing Ca concentrations in low NPP diets containing phytase. However, a tendency (quadratic, p = 0.10) for increased FPD incidence with increasing dietary Ca concentrations was observed.

Conclusion

Dietary Ca concentrations from 4.0 to 9.0 g/kg in low NPP diets containing phytase have little effects on growth performance of growing broiler chickens. However, Ca and P concentrations in the tibia are decreased if dietary Ca concentrations are less than 5.0 g/kg. The FPD incidence for growing broiler chickens may be decreased if less than 9.0 g/kg of Ca is included in diets.

Evaluation of the Boron and Phytase, Alone or in Combination, in Broiler Diets

A total of 800 day-old broiler chicks were assigned to four test diets to assess the efficacy of phytase, fermented from Aspergillus niger, and boron, as boric acid, on the growth performance and mineral profile in chickens. The dietary treatments included the basal diet and the basal diet supplemented with boron (20 mg/kg), phytase (500 phytase units/kg diet), or a combination of boron and phytase. The following parameters were measured: growth performance indices, serum biochemicals, ash and the mineral profile of the tibia, breast muscle, liver and excreta. Boron decreased the overall feed conversion ratio by 1.9% (P<0.05) but did not affect the body weight and feed consumption of chickens grown for 42 days (P>0.05). The performance indices were not significantly influenced by dietary regimens for the first 21 days of the experiment (P>0.05). The addition of boron alone and boron + phytase resulted in significant increases in the boron concentrations of serum, bone, breast muscle, liver and excreta (P< 0.001). The serum alanine aminotransferase activity of chicks fed phytase was higher (P<0.05) than all other treatments. The ash content and mineral composition of the breast meat, liver and tibia did not respond to individual or combined dietary modifications (P>0.05). The chickens administered a diet with boron excreted less Cathrough excreta. However, the ash content and Fe and Cu concentrations in the excreta increased in response to phytase supplementation (P<0.05). In summary, supplementation with boron alone improved the feed conversion efficiency of broiler chickens fed diets containing adequate levels of nutrients. However, the combination of boron and phytase did not cause further improvements in broiler performance or the bioavailability of minerals.

Comparative effects of zinc-nano complexes, zinc-sulphate and zinc-methionine on performance in broiler chickens

Micronutrients, especially zinc, have an important role in normal metabolism and growth of broilers. Using novel technologies helps to synthesise novel zinc complexes to deliver this micronutrient more efficiently. In the present study, the effects of different zinc complexes and nano complexes on broiler performance were compared. Broilers in 6 groups were given basal diet (without zinc) and basal diet supplemented with zinc-sulphate, zinc-methionine, zinc-nano-sulphate, zinc-nano-methionine and zinc-nano-max (that was synthesised based on nanochelating technology) at a concentration of 80 mg/kg of diet. At 1-42 d of age, dietary zinc-nano-sulphate supplementation decreased weight gain and feed intake. However, feed conversion ratio was not influenced by treatments. Carcass yield (%) of birds in the zinc-nano-sulphate and control groups were dramatically reduced at 42 d of age and abdominal fat (%) increased in these groups. Relative to the control group, the antibody titre, spleen and bursa of Fabricius (%) were significantly higher in groups supplemented with zinc. Heterophil (%) was also significantly higher in the zinc-nano-methionine group in blood on d 42 compared to the control, zinc-sulphate and zinc-nano-sulphate. Compared to the controls, the mean malondialdehyde content in thigh tissue was significantly reduced in groups supplemented with zinc at the time 0, 50, 100 and 150 min after oxidation. Tibia zinc concentration in nanoparticle zinc samples was significantly higher relative to the control and zinc-sulphate groups. Taken together, our data indicate that delivery of zinc in the structure of zinc-nano-methionine and zinc-nano-max at concentrations of 80 mg/kg of diet improves growth performance. However, dietary zinc-nano-sulphate decreased growth performance in broilers.

Effects of dietary boron and phytase supplementation on growth performance and mineral profile of broiler chickens fed on diets adequate or deficient in calcium and phosphorus

1. Two experiments were designed to determine the effect of dietary boron (B) in broiler chickens. In Experiment 1, a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement of treatments was used to investigate the effect of dietary calcium (Ca) and available phosphorus (aP) (adequate or deficient) and supplemental B (0, 20, 40, and 60 mg/kg diet). In Experiment 2, B, at 20 mg/kg, and phytase (PHY) (500 FTU/kg diet) were incorporated into a basal diet deficient in Ca and aP, either alone or in combination. 2. The parameters that were measured were growth performance indices, serum biochemical activity as well as ash and mineral (i.e. Ca, P, Mg, Fe, Cu and Zn) content of tibia, breast muscle and liver. 3. Results indicated that both supplemental B and dietary Ca and aP had marginal effects on performance indices of chickens grown for 42 d. 4. There were positive correlations (linear effect) between B concentrations of serum, bone, breast muscle and liver and the amount of B consumed. 5. Serum T3 and T4 activities increased linearly with higher B supplementation. 6. Increasing supplemental B had significant implications on breast muscle and liver mineral composition. Lowering dietary Ca and aP level increased Cu content in liver and both Fe and Zn retention in breast muscle. Tibia ash content and mineral composition did not respond to dietary modifications with either Ca-aP or B. 7. The results also suggested that dietary contents of Ca and aP do not affect the response to B regarding tissue mineral profile. Dietary combination with B and PHY did not create a synergism with regard to growth performance and bioavailability of the minerals.

The effects of boron supplementation of layer diets varying in calcium and phosphorus concentrations on performance, egg quality, bone strength and mineral constituents of serum, bone and faeces

1. A 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments was used to investigate the effects of dietary calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and supplemental boron (B) (0, 75, and 150 mg/kg) on the performance, egg quality, bone strength, and mineral constituents in bone, serum and faeces. 2. A reduction by 18% in the dietary Ca-P concentration from the recommended levels for the hen strain reduced (P < 0.01) faecal excretion of ash, Ca and P concentrations, and shear force with stress of the tibia in association with decreased feed intake, whereas improved albumen height and Haugh unit values in the egg. 3. Supplemental B significantly decreased the feed consumption, egg weight and final body weight in hens, as well as the albumen height, but had no effect on either the biomechanical characteristics of bones or the mineral profile of the bones and serum. However, there was a significant increase in the egg production rate and a reduction in the damaged and shell-less egg ratio, and in the feed conversion rate in hens fed adequate Ca-P with 150 mg/kg B compared to those of the unsupplemented controls. 4. The amount of B that accumulated in the bones and serum was correlated with the amount of B consumed. B increased the faecal excretion of ash, Ca and B. In general, dietary variables had no effect on mineral composition of serum and tibia. 5. The magnitude of the response to dietary B was much more pronounced in hens fed a diet deficient in Ca-P with 75 mg/kg B; these hens exhibited a production performance and an egg quality comparable to those given adequate Ca-P with no added B. 6. The data presented in this study describing the measured bone properties did not corroborate the hypothesis that B is a trace element playing an important role in mineral metabolism and bone strength through an interaction with Ca, P and Mg.

Dose-dependent Effect of Boric Acid on Myogenic Differentiation of Human Adipose-derived Stem Cells (hADSCs)

Boron, a vital micronutrient for plant metabolism, is not fully elucidated for embryonic and adult body development, and tissue regeneration. Although optimized amount of boron supplement has been shown to be essential for normal gestational development in zebrafish and frog and beneficial for bone regeneration in higher animals, effects of boron on myogenesis and myo-regeneration remains to be solved. In the current study, we investigated dose-dependent activity of boric acid on myogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) using immunocytochemical, gene, and protein expression analysis. The results revealed that while low- (81.9 μM) and high-dose (819.6 μM) boron treatment increased myogenic gene expression levels such as myosin heavy chain (MYH), MyoD, myogenin, and desmin at day 4 of differentiation, high-dose treatment decreased myogenic-related gene and protein levels at day 21 of differentiation, confirmed by immunocytochemical analysis. The findings of the study present not only an understanding of boron's effect on myogenic differentiation but also an opportunity for the development of scaffolds to be used in skeletal tissue engineering and supplements for embryonic muscle growth. However, fine dose tuning and treatment period arranging are highly warranted as boron treatment over required concentrations and time might result in detrimental outcomes to myogenesis and myo-regeneration.

Effects of boron on structure and antioxidative activities of spleen in rats

In order to determine the relationship between boron and development of the spleen, especially in the promoting biological effects, we examined the effects of different levels of boron on weight, organ index, microstructure, and antioxidative activities of the spleen in rats. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were selected and treated with different concentrations of boron, and then, the organs were resected and weighed. One half of the tissue was fixed and embedded in paraffin to observe tissue structure changes. The other half of the tissue was homogenated for determining the antioxidant activities. The results showed that 40 mg/L of boron could increase weight, organ indexes, and antioxidant capacity of spleens and improve the spleen tissue structure, while the boron concentration above 80 mg/L could decrease weight, organ indexes, and antioxidant capacity of spleens and damage the spleen tissue structure. The higher the concentration, the more serious the damage was. Especially at the concentration of 640 mg/L, it could significantly inhibit the development of the spleen and even exhibit toxic effect. Hence, low boron concentration played a protective role in the development of the spleen, while high boron concentration could damage the organs and even produce toxic effect.

Effects of boron supplementation to diets deficient in calcium and phosphorus on performance with some serum, bone and fecal characteristics of broiler chickens

Three levels of boron (0, 30, 60 ppm) were supplemented in practical corn-soybean based starter and grower diets, containing either adequate or inadequate Ca or P. A total of 1,800, 1-day-old sexed broiler chicks were assigned to six dietary treatments and fed with the experimental diets for 42 days. Boron improved the overall feed conversion ratio, but increased body weight only at 21 days of age (p<0.01). Boron decreased feed intake in the case of feeding on a diet deficient in Ca and P, and tended to increase feed intake when birds received a diet adequate in Ca and P, signifying significant boron by Ca-P interaction (p<0.01). Mortality was not influenced by boron (p>0.05). Dietary Ca and P deprivation reduced body weight and feed consumption significantly, but did not influence the feed conversion ratio and mortality (p>0.05). Serum Ca level, ALP and ALT activities were not influenced either by dietary Ca and P deficiency or boron supplementation. Serum P content increased with respect to boron at 30 ppm. Bone breakage strength was not affected by dietary variables. Tibia ash, Ca and P were increased in response to the supplementation diet with 30 ppm boron, whereas 60 ppm showed no effect in most cases. Accordingly, the dietary boron supplementation of 30 ppm significantly decreased fecal Ca and P excretion, while there was a numerical decline in the 60 ppm boron as compared to the 0 ppm boron group. Data presented herein indicated that boron, either at the 30 ppm or 60 ppm supplementation level, was effective in conversion of feed to body weight, whereas only boron at 30 ppm contributed to the mineralization of bone thereby augmenting more Ca and P while excreting less through faeces.

Chicken nucleated blood cells as a cellular model for genotoxicity testing using the comet assay

Mycotoxins can frequently occur in animal feed and human food. T-2 toxin, as the most toxic trichothecene, has been implicated as the causative agent in a variety of animal diseases and is associated with some human diseases. The comet assay was performed as a test for detection of DNA damage caused by T-2 toxin in peripheral blood cells of chicken. The suitability of the comet assay as a biomarker for genotoxic analysis has been applied in studies using human white blood cells. It can be applied to any tissue from which a single cell suspension can be obtained. The method has already been applied to chicken as a foodstuff for detection of irradiation of food containing DNA. However, application of the method on chicken blood cells has not been set up yet. The aim of this research was to develop a protocol for detection of DNA damage induced by T-2 toxin in chicken blood cells. Chickens were administered orally with T-2 toxin and the samples of whole blood were collected at 24 h post treatment. The DNA damage was determined by an increase in the comet parameters in tested animals. Our results show that T-2 toxin had induced significant DNA damage in treated chicken as compared with control animals, indicating that the assay can be used for the assessment of primary DNA damage caused by mycotoxins.

Effects of boron and calcium supplementation on mechanical properties of bone in rats

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to consider the effects of boron (B) and calcium (Ca) supplementation on mechanical properties of bone tissues and mineral content of the selected bones in rats.

METHODS

Adult male Sprague Dawley rats underwent three different treatments with boron and calcium in their drinking water, while taking diet ad libitum for 4 weeks. Rats in the three treatment groups received 2 mg B/d, 300 mg Ca/d, and a combination of 2 mg B+ 300 mg Ca/d, respectively. After the experimental period body weights were recorded and bone mechanical properties were determined on the tibiae, femurs, and fifth lumbar vertebral bones and the mineral contents of these bones was calculated as the ash percentage.

RESULTS

Better measurement of bone mechanical properties were observed for boron supplementation. The stiffness of the lumbar vertebral bones tended to increase in all groups and was significant for Ca supplementation. The significant maximal load obtained for boron in all bones indicates higher strength and less strength for apparently a high level of calcium, while this negative defect in the case of lumbar vertebral bones was corrected in the presence of boron. Highest mean energy to maximal load was shown with boron supplementation, demonstrating significant values with Ca group, and lower energy for the lumbar vertebral bones in Ca group in comparison with the controls. Less deformation at the yield points was shown in Ca group. There were no significant differences in ash weights among the four groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Additional and longer studies are warranted to further determine the effects of supplemental boron with different calcium levels and possibly other minerals involved in bone mechanical properties in rats.