Analysis of bone osteometry, mineralization, mechanical and histomorphometrical properties of tibiotarsus in broiler chickens demonstrates a influence of dietary chickpea seeds (Cicer arietinum L.) inclusion as a primary protein source

The effect of caponization on tibia bone histomorphometric properties of crossbred roosters

The negative effect of caponization on the structural, geometric and mechanical parameters of femur and tibia has been shown in a few studies. Nevertheless, its influence on tibia bone microarchitecture is still largely unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of castration on the microstructural parameters of the trabecular and compact bone of tibia bone in crossbred chickens. The experiment involved 96 roosters derived from crossing Yellowleg Partridge hens ([Formula: see text]-33) and Rhode Island Red cockerels (R-11) fattened until the 16th, 20th and 24th week of life. Animals were randomly divided into 2 groups of 48 each. Group I (control) consisted of intact roosters and group II (experimental) consisted of birds subjected to caponization at the 8th week of age. The castration surgery had no influence on some properties within compact bone such as osteon diameter On.Dm, osteon perimeter On.Pm, osteon area On.Ar, osteocyte lacunar number Ot.Lc.N, osteon bone area On.B.Ar, osteon wall thickness On.W.Th as well as thick-mature collagen content in all analyzed age groups of animals. Nevertheless, our results demonstrate that castration caused a decrease of Haversian canal area Hc.Ar, osteocyte lacunar area Ot.Lc.Ar and osteocyte lacunar porosity Ot.Lc.Po among the 16-week-old birds, decrease of Haversian canal perimeter Hc.Pm and increase of fraction of bone area On.B.Ar/On.Ar among 16- and 24-week-old individuals and also an increase of osteocyte lacunar density Ot.Lc.Dn in the osteons of the oldest roosters. Additionally, some microstructural parameters of trabecular bone show the negative effect of caponization. The youngest 16-week-old capons were characterized by thinnin the trabecular in the epiphysis part of tibia. Moreover, in the case of 24-week-old, there is an increase in the trabecular separation Tb.Sp with simultaneous decrease of trabecular number Tb.N compared to roosters, which may suggest the increase of the bone resorption among the oldest individuals. The increased bone turnover in the epiphysis part of the tibia bone also indicates changes in the collagen fibers distribution, where among 20-week-old animals there is a decrease in the content of immature thin collagen fibers with simultaneous increase in the content of mature thick collagen fibers. Furthermore, among the oldest 24-week-old individuals we can observe the increased thick-to-thin collagen ratio, which may be a sign of slowing down in bone formation.

The effect of caponization on bone homeostasis of crossbred roosters. I. Analysis of tibia bone mineralization, densitometric, osteometric, geometric and biomechanical properties

The presented study focuses on assessing the effect of caponization on the densitometric, osteometric, geometric and biomechanical parameters of tibial bones in crossbred chickens. The study was carried out on 96 hybrids between Yellowleg Partridge hens (Ż-33) and Rhode Island Red cockerels (R-11) aged 16 weeks, 20 weeks and 24 weeks. Birds were randomly assigned to 2 groups-the control group (n = 48; which consisted of intact roosters) and the experimental group (n = 48, which consisted of individuals subjected to caponization at the age of 8 weeks). The caponization had no effect on the densitometric, osteometric and geometric parameters (except the horizontal internal diameter of 16-week-old individuals) of tibia bone, as well as the content of calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and the Ca/P ratio in the bone mineral fraction in all analyzed age groups of animals. However, it contributes to a lower percentage of ash in the bones of capons at 20 and 24 weeks of age compared to cockerels. On the contrary, some mechanical and material parameters show the negative effect of caponization. Ultimate load and bending moment decreased in capons in all of the analyzed age groups of animals and yield load, stiffness and ultimate stress also decreased but only in the group of 20-week-old and 24-week-old individuals. This can contribute to the weakening of the capon bones, and in the perspective of prolonged maintenance to their deformation and even fracture.

Effect of soybean meal substitution with raw chickpea (Cicer arietinum l.) Seeds on growth performance, selected carcass traits, blood parameters, and bone quality in male broilers

The study determined the effect of introducing 50% of protein from the protein feed pool derived from raw chickpea seeds instead of 50% of soybean meal in the rearing period from day 22 to 42 on the coefficients of nutrient digestibility, growth performance, selected carcass traits, the hematological and metabolic profile of blood, and the quality of femur bones in male Ross 308 broilers. The study was carried out on 200 22-day-old male Ross 308 broiler chicks (initial weight of 756 g) randomly assigned to two groups (n=100 in each group; 5 cages with 20 birds each). All birds were reared for 42 days. They were fed isonitrogenous and isoenergetic pre-experimental starter diet (day 1 to 21) in the crumble form and experimental grower-finisher diets (day 22 to 42) in the pelleted form. From rearing day 22, SBM male broilers (grower/finisher) were fed diets with 100% SBM as a protein source. In the diet for the CPR group (grower and finisher), the SBM protein was replaced with 50% of CPR-derived protein. During the grower and finisher stage and between days 22 and 42, the CPR group exhibited significant (P=0.032) reductions in feed intake (FI), higher (P=0.043) slaughter yields, high (P=0.044) % share of breast muscles, and reduced (P=0.003) abdominal fat content. The addition of CPR influenced some blood parameters. The level of total protein, urea, and Mg decreased, whereas the activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate transaminase (ALT) increased. In the CPR group, an increase in the physical, morphometric, and some strength parameters of the femur (maximum elastic strength – Wy, yielding deformation – dy, bone density index – BDI, and Young’s modulus) was observed. Therefore, CPR may be a promising partial substitute of SBM in broiler nutrition, as it enhances production performance and has a beneficial effect on bone quality.

Effect of Raw Chickpea in the Broiler Chicken Diet on Intestinal Histomorphology and Intestinal Microbial Populations

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of partial replacement of SBM protein with CPR-derived protein in the broiler rearing period from 22 to 42 days of age on the intestinal histomorphology and the composition of the intestinal microbial population. Male broiler chicks aged 1 day were assigned to two groups with different nutrition schemes (n = 100 in each, 5 cages of 20 chicks in each). The chickens were reared for 42 days. All birds were fed isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets: starter (1 to 21 d), grower (22 to 35 d), and finisher (36 to 42 d). From rearing day 22, different diets were provided to the birds: the SBM group received feed with 100% soybean meal protein, and the diet of the CPR group the protein originated from soybean meal was replaced by 50% chickpea protein. The study results indicated a significant impact of the inclusion of CPR in the diet on the basic intestinal structures (thickness of myenteron: submucosa, jejunum and duodenum mucosa, and jejunum transversal lamina). The addition of CPR led to shortening of intestinal villi, an increase in villus thickness, and reduced intestine absorptive surface in the duodenum and jejunum. The CPR group exhibited a significantly lower villus length-to-crypt depth ratio in the jejunum (p < 0.001). The inclusion of chickpeas in the diet increased the total count of mesophilic bacteria and coliforms in the intestinal contents (p < 0.05). In summary, it has been demonstrated that the inclusion of CPR in the diet induced considerable disturbances in metabolism and intestinal structure. Although CPR is a cheap protein source, its use in poultry diet does not ensure development of the intestinal structure comparable to that in the case of an SBM-only diet.

Surface and Structural Studies of Age-Related Changes in Dental Enamel: An Animal Model

In the animal kingdom, continuously erupting incisors provided an attractive model for studying the enamel matrix and mineral composition of teeth during development. Enamel, the hardest mineral tissue in the vertebrates, is a tissue sensitive to external conditions, reflecting various disturbances in its structure. The developing dental enamel was monitored in a series of incisor samples extending the first four weeks of postnatal life in the spiny mouse. The age-dependent changes in enamel surface morphology in the micrometre and nanometre-scale and a qualitative assessment of its mechanical features were examined by applying scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). At the same time, structural studies using XRD and vibrational spectroscopy made it possible to assess crystallinity and carbonate content in enamel mineral composition. Finally, a model for predicting the maturation based on chemical composition and structural factors was constructed using artificial neural networks (ANNs). The research presented here can extend the existing knowledge by proposing a pattern of enamel development that could be used as a comparative material in environmental, nutritional, and pharmaceutical research.

The Impact of Hempseed Consumption on Bone Parameters and Body Composition in Growing Female C57BL/6 Mice

Optimizing peak bone mass is critical to healthy aging. Beyond the established roles of dietary minerals and protein on bone integrity, fatty acids and polyphenols modify bone structure. This study investigated the effect of a diet containing hempseeds (HS), which are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols, on bone mineral density, bone cell populations and body composition. Groups (n = 8 each) of female C57BL/6 mice were fed one of three diets (15% HS by weight; 5% HS; 0% HS (control)) from age 5 to 30 weeks. In vivo whole-body composition and bone mineral density and content were measured every 4 weeks using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Ex vivo humeri cell populations in the epiphyseal plate region were determined by sectioning the bone longitudinally, mounting the sections on slides and staining with tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase stain to identify osteoclasts and osteoblasts, respectively. Mixed models with repeated measures across experimental weeks showed that neither body weight nor body weight gain across weeks differed among groups yet mice fed the 15% HS diet consumed significantly more food and more kilocalories per g body weight gained than those fed the 5% HS and control diets (p < 0.0001). Across weeks, fat mass was significantly higher in the 5% HS versus the control group (p = 0.02). At the end point, whole-body bone mineral content was significantly higher in the control compared to the 5% HS group (p = 0.02). Humeri from both HS groups displayed significantly lower osteoblast densities compared to the control group (p < 0.0001). No relationship was seen between osteoblast density and body composition measurements. These data invite closer examination of bone cell activity and microarchitecture to determine the effect of habitual HS consumption on bone integrity.

Dietary Energy and Protein Levels During the Prelay Period on Production Performance, Egg Quality, Expression of Genes in Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Ovary Axis, and Bone Parameters in Aged Laying Hens

Nutrition during the pre-lay period takes effect on the production performance in the laying flock. This study evaluated the effects of dietary energy and protein levels in pre-lay diet on performance during the whole laying period and the egg quality, bone quality, and mRNA expression of hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis-related genes of hens at the end of the laying cycle. A total of 1,856 15-wk old Hy-Line brown pullets were randomly assigned to one of the four dietary treatments: using a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with 2 energy levels (2,700 and 2,800 kcal/kg ME, respectively) and 2 protein levels (15 and 16.5% CP, respectively). Pullets were fed ad libitum from 15 to 20 wk and from 20 wk onward, fed with a similar laying diet till 72 wk of age. At 72 wk, the expression of genes in the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovarian, and follicles and bone quality was evaluated. At 72wk, there were no differences in production performance, BW, organ index, and ovarian parameters among the dietary treatments. High-CP diet increased the egg shape index and eggshell thickness (p < 0.05), but the eggshell breaking strength, Haugh unit, and albumen height did not differ among the treatments. Neither dietary energy nor protein level took an effect of bone quality. Low-energy diet increased the mRNA expression of gonadotropin-releasing hormone-1 (GnRH-1) in the hypothalamus (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression level of estrogen receptor-1 (ESR-1) in the hypothalamus and ovary was elevated by the 2,700 ME-15%CP diet (p < 0.05). The expression of cytochrome family 17 subfamily A polypeptide 1 (CYP17A1) in the large white follicle (LWF), small yellow follicles (SYF) and dominant follicle (DF) was decreased by the 2,800 kcal/kg diet (p < 0.05). These results indicate that the prelay diet had no influence on the production performance but had minimal effect on the eggshell characteristics and bone parameters. These results suggest that the energy and protein level of the prelay diet changes the expression of HPG axis-related genes of hens around the end of the laying cycle without changing the circulating sex hormone profile. The effect of prelay diet on the endocrinal adjustment at the end of the laying cycle needs to be investigated further.

Structural Changes in Trabecular Bone, Cortical Bone and Hyaline Cartilage as Well as Disturbances in Bone Metabolism and Mineralization in an Animal Model of Secondary Osteoporosis in Clostridium perfringens Infection

There is no information regarding whether changes in the microbiological balance of the gastrointestinal tract as a result of an infection with Clostridium perfringens influence the development of metabolic bone disorders. The experiment was carried out on male broiler chickens divided into two groups: control (n = 10) and experimental (n = 10). The experimental animals were infected with Clostridium perfringens between 17 and 20 days of age. The animals were euthanized at 42 days of age. The structural parameters of the trabecular bone, cortical bone, and hyaline cartilage as well as the mineralization of the bone were determined. The metabolism of the skeletal system was assessed by determining the levels of bone turnover markers, hormones, and minerals in the blood serum. The results confirm that the disturbed composition of the gastrointestinal microflora has an impact on the mineralization and metabolism of bone tissue, leading to the structural changes in cortical bone, trabecular bone, and hyaline cartilage. On the basis of the obtained results, it can be concluded that changes in the microenvironment of the gastrointestinal tract by infection with C. perfringens may have an impact on the earlier development of osteoporosis.

Raw Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) as a Substitute of Soybean Meal in Compound Feed for Broiler Chickens: Effects on Growth Performance, Lipid Metabolism, Fatty Acid Profile, Antioxidant Status, and Dietary Value of Muscles

Simple Summary

Defatted soybean meal is the basic source of protein in poultry diet. Therefore, researchers are searching for an alternative source of vegetable protein derived from native raw materials. The present results were obtained in an experiment consisting in the use of soybean meal in the diet for broiler chickens, or the replacement of 50% of soybean meal protein with raw chickpea seed protein. The impact of the substitution on the poultry production process and on the dietary value of poultry meat was assessed.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of substitution of 50% of soybean meal protein with 310–350 g/kg diet of raw chickpea seed protein on the chemical composition, fatty acid profile, dietary value, and antioxidant status of breast and thigh muscles, as well as the antioxidant status of blood serum, in Ross 308 male broilers. In the 42-day experiment, one-day-old male broiler chicks were assigned to two nutritional groups (n = 100 in each, 20 birds in each group, and 5 replications). In the control group, 100% of protein in the feed was derived from soybean meal. In the experimental group, 310–350 g/kg protein from raw chickpea seeds was introduced. Data with a normal distribution were analyzed using the Student t-test, and the relationships between the traits were assessed with the use of Pearson’s correlation coefficients. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The replacement with chickpea protein did not exert an impact on the final body weight, feed consumption, and feed conversion ratio compared to the control group. However, it induced changes in the color of the breast muscles (increased L* and b* values), and reduced the cholesterol content. The addition of chickpea seeds improved the fatty acid profile, mainly in the breast muscle. A decrease in the total SFA content and a higher level of unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), UFAs/saturated fatty acids (SFAs), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), omega-3, and omega-6 were observed in the experimental group. Additionally, the chickpea-supplemented group exhibited better values of meat quality indicators (atherogenic index-AI; thrombogenic index–TI, ratio of saturated fatty acids to unsaturated fatty acids-S/P, n-6/n-3, hypocholesterolemic/Hypercholesterolemic ratio-h/H). It can be concluded that raw chickpea seeds are a good source of protein in broiler chicken nutrition, and can replace the traditionally used protein source (soybean meal), simultaneously exerting a positive effect on the dietary value of poultry meat and an expected enhancing impact on consumer health.

Changes in the Intestinal Histomorphometry, the Expression of Intestinal Tight Junction Proteins, and the Bone Structure and Liver of Pre-Laying Hens Following Oral Administration of Fumonisins for 21 Days

Fumonisins (FB) are metabolites found in cereal grains (including maize), crop products, and pelleted feed. There is a dearth of information concerning the effects of FB intoxication on the intestinal histomorphometry, the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins, and the bone structure and liver in pre-laying hens. The current experiment was carried out on hens from the 11th to the 14th week of age. The hens were orally administered an extract containing fumonisin B1 (FB1) and fumonisin B2 (FB2) at doses of 0.0 mg/kg b.w. (body weight), 1.0 mg/kg b.w., 4.0 mg/kg b.w., and 10.9 mg/kg b.w. for 21 days. Following FB intoxication, the epithelial integrity of the duodenum and jejunum was disrupted, and dose-dependent degenerative changes were observed in liver. An increased content of immature collagen was observed in the bone tissue of FB-intoxicated birds, indicating intensified bone turnover. A similar effect was observed with regards to the articular cartilage, where enhanced fibrillogenesis was observed mainly in the group of birds that received the FB extract at a dose of 10.9 mg/kg b.w. In conclusion, FB intoxication resulted in negative structural changes in the bone tissue of the hens, which could result in worsened bone mechanics and an increase in the risk of bone fractures. Fumonisin administration, even at a dose of 1.0 mg/kg b.w., can lead to degradation of the intestinal barrier and predispose hens to intestinal disturbances later in life.

The effect of maternal HMB supplementation on bone mechanical and geometrical properties, as well as histomorphometry and immunolocalization of VEGF, TIMP2, MMP13, BMP2 in the bone and cartilage tissue of the humerus of their newborn piglets

The presented experiment focuses on assessing the impact of HMB (hydroxy-β-methobutyrate) supplementation of mothers during pregnancy on the development of the skeletal system of their offspring. For this purpose, an experiment was carried out on 12 clinically healthy sows of the Great White Poland breed, which were divided randomly into two groups the control and the HMB group. All animals were kept under standard conditions and received the same feed for pregnant females. In contrast, females from the HMB group between 70 and 90 days were supplemented with 3-hydroxy-3-methylbutyle in the amount of 0.2g/kg b.w/day. Immediately after birth, the piglets were also divided into groups based on: sex, and presence or lack HMB supplementation, and subsequently were euthanized and humerus bones from all piglets were collected. Mother's HMB supplementation during pregnancy affected the multiple index of their offspring. The higher humerus mass and length was observed with the greater effect in males. Maternal supplementation also influenced on the geometrical and mechanical properties of the humerus as in the case of mass, this effect was higher in males. Also, the collagen structure of the compacted and trabecular bone changed under the HMB addition. Maternal supplementation also affected the expression of selected proteins in growth cartilage and trabecular bone. The obtained results show that the administration to the mother during pregnancy by the HMB significantly affects the development of the humerus in many ways. The obtained results also confirm the utility of such experiments in understanding of the importance of the pregnancy diet as an develop and adaptable factor of offspring organisms and are the base for further research in that area as well as in the protein markers expression area.

The Effect of Dietary Rye Inclusion and Xylanase Supplementation on Structural Organization of Bone Constitutive Phases in Laying Hens Fed a Wheat-Corn Diet

This study was conducted to examine the effect of dietary rye inclusion and xylanase supplementation on the bone quality of ISA Brown laying hens. Ninety-six laying hens were assigned to four groups: fed with wheat-corn diet or rye-wheat-corn diet (25% of hybrid rye inclusion) or nonsupplemented or supplemented with xylanase (200 mg/kg of feed) for a period of 25 weeks, from the 26th to the 50th week of age. X-ray absorptiometry, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy were used to provide comprehensive information about the structural organization of bone constitutive phases of the tibia mid-diaphysis in hens from all treatment groups. Bone hydroxyapatite size was not affected by diet. Xylanase supplementation influenced the carbonate-to-phosphate ratio and crystallinity index in hens fed with both diets. Xylanase had more pronounced effects on bone mineral density and collagen maturity in hens fed with the rye-wheat-corn diet versus those fed with the wheat-corn diet. The results of this study showed that modern rye varieties, when supplemented with exogenous xylanase, can be introduced to the diet of laying hens without any adverse effects on bone structure.

Foliar Applied Acetylsalicylic Acid Induced Growth and Key-Biochemical Changes in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Under Drought Stress

The exogenous application of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is stated to increase tolerance of plants against different environmental stresses. Therefore, the present study was planned to get insight into ASA-mediated regulation of growth, secondary metabolism, and oxidative defense in 2 chickpea varieties. Ten seeds of 2 chickpea varieties (DG-89 and Bittle-98) were sown in plastic pots containing sandy loam soil with 3 drought stress levels, i.e. wet conditions or flooded water (100% FC) as recommended control, 75% FC, 50% FC and 25% FC for chickpea. The moisture contents were maintained and regularly monitored through the addition of normal irrigation water. The design of experimental was completely randomized with 3 replicates per treatment. Penultimate leaves were harvested with knife after 20 days of foliar spray to observe the effect of exogenously applied ASA (100 mg/L) on growth, and key-biochemical attributes of chickpea plants (DG-89 and Bittle-98) under drought stress regimes. Drought stress regimes caused a substantial decline in shoot (37% and 35%) and root length (67% and 78%), shoot (80% and 76%) and root (62% and 68%) fresh masses, shoot (71% and 63%) and root (77% and 74%) dry masses, leaf area per plant (77% and 80%), chlorophyll a (7% and 45%), chlorophyll b (57% and 42%), total chlorophyll (30% and 39%), total carotenoids (76% and 54%), total anthocyanins (38%), reducing sugar (10% and 57%), total soluble proteins (77% and 44%), total flavonoids (61% and 59%) and total phenolics (58% and 31%) contents in both DG-89 and Bittle-98, respectively. A significant increase in MDA (25%), H₂O₂ contents (100% and 62%), proline (145% and 131%), and ascorbic acid (133% and 203%) contents was documented in stressed plants of both varieties, respectively. Additionally, drought stress significantly improved the activities of POD (154% and 76%), CAT (87% and 45%) and SOD (248% and 143%) in both varieties. Exogenous application of ASA reduced drought-mediated oxidative stress by reducing MDA (53% and 14%), and H₂O₂ (84% and 56%) contents, proline contents (50% and 17%) and enhanced the shoot (6% and 25%) and root (43% and 33%) dry masses, leaf area (9% and 10%), chlorophyll a (7% and 32%), b (82% and 81%), and carotenoids (53% and 33%) in both barley cultivars. When plants of chickpea was treated with ASA had greater total anthocyanins (26% and 35%), free amino acids (48% and 28%), ascorbic acid contents (135% and 179%), total soluble proteins (34% and 23%), total flavonoids (58% and 35%) and phenolic (50% and 69%)contents besides the POD (41% and 64%), CAT (23% and 56%) and SOD (73% and 72%) enzymes activities. Plants of DG-89 showed more tolerance to drought stress than that of Bittle-98 as a manifest from higher plant biomasses. Thus, our results showed that foliar-applied ASA is an effective strategy that can be used to improve the tolerance of chickpea plants to drought stress.

Near-Surface Studies of the Changes to the Structure and Mechanical Properties of Human Enamel under the Action of Fluoride Varnish Containing CPP-ACP Compound

Changes to the features of the enamel surface submitted to induced demineralisation and subsequent remineralisation were studied. The in vitro examination was conducted on polished slices of human molar teeth, divided in four groups: the untreated control (n = 20), challenged by a demineralisation with orthophosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) (n = 20), and challenged by a demineralisation following remineralisation with fluoride (F) varnish containing casein phosphopeptides (CPP) and amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) compounds (n = 20). The specimens’ enamel surfaces were subjected to analysis of structure, molecular arrangement, mechanical features, chemical composition, and crystalline organization of apatite crystals. Specimens treated with acid showed a significant decrease in crystallinity, calcium, and phosphorus levels as well as mechanical parameters, with an increase in enamel surface roughness and degree of carbonates when compared to the control group. Treatment with fluoride CPP–ACP varnish provided great improvements in enamel arrangement, as the destroyed hydroxyapatite structure was largely rebuilt and the resulting enamel surface was characterised by greater regularity, higher molecular and structural organisation, and a smoother surface compared to the demineralised one. In conclusion, this in vitro study showed that fluoride CPP–ACP varnish, by improving enamel hardness and initiating the deposition of a new crystal layer, can be an effective remineralising agent for the treatment of damaged enamel.

Effect of Soybean Meal Substitution by Raw Chickpea Seeds on Thermal Properties and Fatty Acid Composition of Subcutaneous Fat Tissue of Broiler Chickens

Simple Summary

A soybean meal, commonly used as a primary source of protein in animal diets, is often obtained from processing genetically modified soybean varieties. The tendency to reduce the use of feeds containing transgenic constituents increases the need for alternative sources of dietary protein. In this study, we fed broiler chickens diets containing either soybean meal or raw chickpea seeds. We examined the effect of such a substitution on broilers’ subcutaneous fat tissue, which has numerous important physiological functions in chickens.

Abstract

In this study, the effect of soybean meal substitution by raw chickpea seeds on the thermal properties and fatty acid profile of subcutaneous fat tissue of broiler chickens was examined. The experiment, performed on Ross 308 chickens, lasted for 42 days. Tight subcutaneous fat tissue was analyzed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements while the fatty acid composition of subcutaneous adipose tissue was determined chromatographically. There was no effect of soybean meal substitution on fat crystallization temperature or crystallization enthalpy. However, the total calorimetric enthalpy of the melting of low-melting monounsaturated and saturated triacylglycerols differed between groups. Fatty acid proportions in the subcutaneous fat tissue of broiler chickens were also altered. Among others, chickpea seed inclusion decreased the content of main saturated acid (palmitic acid) and increased the content of main monounsaturated (oleic) and tri-unsaturated (linolenic) acids. The results show that the soybean meal substitution by raw chickpea seeds in the feed can affect the structural properties of adipose tissue in broiler chickens, including the thermal transformation of unsaturated fatty acids. Due to the numerous physiological functions of subcutaneous fat tissue, understanding these mechanisms can promote the use of alternative protein both in poultry and human nutrition.

The effect of bee pollen on bone biomechanical strength and trabecular bone histomorphometry in tibia of young Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)

It has been demonstrated in numerous studies that bee pollen supplementation shows numerous positive effects on health. However, its impact on bones is largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of bee pollen supplementation on the tibia biomechanical properties and bone morphometric measures using Japanese quail as an animal model. The experiment was arranged in a 2x2x2 factorial design, with sex, quail line (meat-type or egg-lying type), and bee pollen inclusion (0 or 10 g/kg of feed) as factors. The quails were one-day-old at the beginning of the experiment, they were euthanized after 42 days. Our study showed for the first time unfavorable effects of bee pollen on bones properties. Bee pollen supplementation negatively affected bone structure, irrespective of quails’ sex or line type. Bone length (P < 0.001), weight (P < 0.01), and mean relative wall thickness (P < 0.01) and mineralization (P < 0.05) were reduced by bee pollen treatment. For female quails, irrespective of line type, the decrease of yield load (P < 0.001), ultimate load (P < 0.01), yield stress (P < 0.001) and ultimate stress (P < 0.05) was noted. Analysis of growth plate in bone metaphysis showed that bee pollen supplementation slowed the process of bone maturation irrespective of sex (P < 0.05). On contrary, dietary bee pollen positively affected bone homeostasis of trabecular bone in bone metaphysis as bone mineral density increased in experimental groups (P < 0.05). In males, this was the result of the increase of trabecular thickness (P < 0.01), in females due to the reduction of trabecular space (P < 0.001). In conclusion, our results demonstrate that bee pollen (1.0%, 10 g/kg of feed) supplementation caused significant negative effects on the mechanical endurance of the tibia of quails, while showed beneficial effects on trabecular bone histomorphometry.

Effects of Yeast (Saccharomyces Cerevisiae) Probiotics Supplementation on Bone Quality Characteristics in Young Japanese Quail (Coturnix Japonica): The Role of Sex on the Action of the Gut-Bone Axis

Simple Summary

The gastrointestinal tract; as an important mediator of nutrients and elements; regulates bone health. In this study, we examined the effect of supplementation with yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae on bone characteristics in young Japanese quails. We found that yeast probiotics, through their action on the gut-bone axis, have a positive effect on the structure of articular cartilage and microarchitecture of trabecular bone in young female quails. These data could provide useful information for further research into the supplementation with yeast probiotics aimed to reduce the risk bone fractures during the egg-laying period

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the changes in bone geometry, histological structure, and selected mechanical characteristics in young male and female Japanese quails supplemented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Quails were fed a basal diet containing no yeast or a basal diet supplemented with 1.5% (15 g per 1 kg of diet) of inactive S. cerevisiae, for a period of 42 days. S. cerevisiae inclusion had no effect on bone weight, length, and density, diaphysis geometry (cross-sectional area, wall thickness, moment of inertia) or on the mechanical strength (yield load, ultimate load, stiffness, Young’s modulus, yield stress, ultimate stress). Yeast supplementation improved the morphology of the articular cartilage both in male and female quails, as the total thickness of the articular cartilage was significantly increased. In trabecular bone, an increase in real bone volume and trabecular thickness was observed in females supplemented with S. cerevisiae, while in males the increase in trabecular number was accompanied by a reduction in trabecular thickness. The results of the present study demonstrate that S. cerevisiae, through a sex-dependent action on the gut-bone axis, improved the structure of articular cartilage and microarchitecture of trabecular bone. The positive effects of S. cerevisiae supplementation were more evident in female quails.

Analysis of mechanical properties of bones and tendons shows that modern hybrid rye can be introduced to corn-wheat based diet in broiler chickens as an alternative energy source irrespective of xylanase supplementation

This study focused on analyzing the effects of inclusion of modern hybrid rye to corn-wheat diet on mechanical properties of bones and tendons. A total of 224 broiler chickens were fed a diet without rye inclusion or a diet containing 15% of hybrid rye cv. Brasetto. The diets were either unsupplemented or supplemented with xylanase (minimum activity 1000 FXU/g, dose 200 mg/kg of feed). Each dietary group consisted of 56 birds. On day 42, selected chickens (n = 7 from each group) were slaughtered. Tibia were analyzed for mineralization, geometry, and biomechanical characteristics of bone mid-diaphysis. The mechanical properties of digital flexor III tendon were also assessed. Bone mineral density and bone ash percentage did not differ when both diets were given without xylanase. Enzyme supplementation increased bone mineral density (P < 0.01) in both dietary groups, whereas bone ash percentage (P < 0.01) increased only for corn-wheat diet. Rye inclusion had no effect on bone mid-shaft geometrical traits related to tibia weight-bearing capacity (cross-sectional area, cortical index, and mean relative wall thickness). Performed bending test showed no effect of hybrid rye inclusion on bone mechanical endurance. When xylanase was supplemented, bone length (P < 0.01) and weight (P < 0.05) decreased, whereas yield load (P < 0.01), stiffness (P < 0.05), Young modulus (P < 0.05), elastics stress (P < 0.01), and ultimate stress (P < 0.01) increased, irrespective of rye presence. The tendon tensile strain test showed that in corn-wheat diet enzyme supplementation positively influenced rupture force (P < 0.05) and tendon stiffness (P < 0.01). Xylanase supplementation increased the value of energy required to tendon rupture, irrespective of rye inclusion (P < 0.05). Study showed that modern hybrid rye varieties can be introduced to corn-wheat diets of broiler chickens in the aspect of animal welfare related to the development and homeostasis of musculoskeletal system, irrespective of xylanase supplementation. The enzyme addition positively affected biomechanical properties of bones and tendons.

Influence of the Surface Roughness of PEEK GRF30 and Ti6Al4V SLM on the Viability of Primary Human Osteoblasts Determined by the MTT Test

The aim of the study was to clearly determine whether selected modern medical materials and three dimensional printing allow for satisfactory viability of human osteoblasts, which is important from the point of view of the subsequent osseointegration process. Moreover, as implants are produced with various topography, the influence of surface roughness on viability of bone cells was evaluated. To conduct the research, primary human osteoblasts (PromoCell) were used. Cells were seeded on samples of glass-reinforced polyetheretherketone (30% of the filling), Ti6Al4V manufactured with the use of selective laser melting technology and forged Ti6Al4V with appropriately prepared variable surface roughness. To assess the viability of the tested cells the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide was used. Results showed that all evaluated materials do not exhibit cytotoxic properties. Moreover, on their basis it can be concluded that there is a certain surface topography (designated i.a. as roughness equal to approx. Ra = 0.30 μm), which ensures the highest possible viability of human osteoblasts. On the basis of the received data, it can also be concluded that modern glass-reinforced polyetheretherketone or Ti6Al4V produced by rapid prototyping method allow to manufacture implants that should be effectively used in clinical conditions.

Surface analysis of etched enamel modified during the prenatal period

Structural changes in the enamel surface subjected to induced demineralization and assessment of the influence of prenatal administration of β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (HMB) on enamel resistance were investigated. The examination was conducted on five sets of teeth from one-day-old spiny mice (Acomys cahirinus), one from the control and four from the experimental groups. Surface structure, molecular arrangement and crystalline organization of offspring's enamel both before and after etching were studied. Obtained results revealed that the physical and molecular arrangements of enamel were altered after the prenatal supplementation, and significantly affected its final structure and resistance against acid action. The enamel of incisors from the offspring which mothers were supplemented with HMB in a high dose (0.2 g/kg_bw) and in the late period of gestation (26th-39th day) showed the highest endurance against acid treatment demonstrating only vestigial changes in their surface structure after acid action. Comparing to the remaining experimental groups, it was characterized by a reduced roughness and fractal dimension, significantly lower degree of demineralization and simultaneous lack of notable differences in the Raman spectra before and after acid etching. The results suggest that an increased enamel resiliency was the effect of a relatively high degree of mineralization and higher organization of the surface.

The Influence of the Partial Replacing of Inorganic Salts of Calcium, Zinc, Iron, and Copper with Amino Acid Complexes on Bone Development in Male Pheasants from Aviary Breeding

Simple Summary

A significant problem of birds reared in farms and then reintroduced to natural living environment is their survival, which is usually much lower than that of the free-living ones. Behavioral and physiological deficiencies rather than morphological anatomy decide about failure, nevertheless, the birds’ body condition, including quality and maturity of skeletal system, are also important. In this context, the problem of proper nutrition for growing game birds is a major one. The level and source of microelements, as well as the source of protein are the main factors affecting bone growth in young captive-reared birds. Since calcium, zinc, iron, and copper are critical nutrients in all practical diets, this experiment was undertaken to determine the possibility of the partial inclusion of organic forms of these elements to the diet of pheasants in order to improve their bone development and survival.

Abstract

This study analyzed the effects of partial replacing of Ca, Fe, Zn, and Cu salts with glycine chelates on the measures of bones health in 16-week-old captive-reared male pheasants, allocated to one of the three experimental groups supplemented with Ca, Fe, Zn, and Cu in forms of inorganic salts (the control group) or groups receiving from the ninth week 25% and 50% of supplemented elements as glycine chelates. At the end of rearing birds receiving chelates were heavier (p < 0.001) and their tibia showed an increase of numerous mechanical parameters: yield and ultimate force (p = 0.028, p < 0.001, respectively), stiffness (p = 0.007), Young modulus (p < 0.001), compared to the control animals. The bones of birds receiving chelates in 50% were also heavier (p < 0.001) and longer (p = 0.014), with thinner cortical bone in midshaft (p = 0.027) and thicker proximal trabeculae (p < 0.001) compared to the control. While both doses of chelates increased mineral density in midshaft (p = 0.040), bone content of Cu and Zn decreased (p = 0.025, p < 0.001, respectively). The content of immature collagen in cancellous bone and articular cartilage increased in groups receiving chelates (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, respectively). In conclusion, glycine chelates probably enhanced development of the skeletal system in male pheasants as bones were denser and more resistant to mechanical damage.

The effect of cadmium exposition on the structure and mechanical properties of rat incisors

Alterations in the structure and mechanical properties of teeth in adult Wistar rats exposed to cadmium were investigated. Analyses were conducted on two sets of incisors from female and male specimens, that were intoxicated with cadmium (n = 12) or belonged to the control (n = 12). The cadmium group was administered with CdCl2 dissolved in drinking water with a dose of 4mg/kgbw for 10 weeks. The oral intake of cadmium by adult rats led to the range of structural changes in enamel morphology and its mechanical features. A significant increase of cadmium levels in the teeth in comparison to the control, a slight shift in the colour and reduction of pigmented enamel length, higher surface irregularity, a decrease of hydroxyapatite crystals size in the c-axis and simultaneous increase in pigmented enamel hardness were observed. The extent of these changes was sex-dependent and was more pronounced in males.