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A Comprehensive Review on Ultra-High Performance Concrete: Composition, Properties, and Applications
No full textUltra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) has emerged as a leading construction material across diverse engineering applications due to its exceptional mechanical properties and durability that exceed those of conventional concrete. This comprehensive review explores UHPC’s material composition, production additives, behavior in both fresh and hardened states, and environmental durability characteristics. The low water-to-cement ratio combined with a high binder content and the use of superplasticizers result in a densely compacted microstructure, substantially enhancing UHPC’s strength. Pozzolanic additives—including silica fume (SF), metakaolin (MK), fly ash (FA), and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS)—contribute to reduced cement consumption while improving long-term durability by enhancing permeability resistance, sulfate attack mitigation, and chloride ion durability. The integration of nanomaterials such as nano-silica (NS), carbon nanotubes (CNT), and graphene oxide (GO) increases the reactive surface area within the matrix, leading to a more uniform and denser microstructure. Fiber reinforcements—comprising steel, synthetic, glass, or hybrid fibers—impart ductility to UHPC, significantly boosting tensile and flexural strengths as well as energy absorption capacity, complementing its notable compressive strength. Fresh-state properties such as consistency, slump, and flowability are critical for manufacturability and application quality, with optimized mixtures delivering superior structural performance in terms of impact resistance, fatigue durability, and fracture mechanics. Additionally, UHPC demonstrates outstanding resistance to freeze-thaw cycles, sulfate and acid attacks, and chloride ingress, making it highly suitable for infrastructure exposed to aggressive environments. This review synthesizes the current understanding of UHPC’s technical advancements and multifaceted benefits, positioning it as a next-generation sustainable construction material that meets the demanding requirements of modern infrastructure
Sequential culture of rumen fluid as a sustainable inoculant for in vitro ruminants feed evaluation
No full textRumen fluid plays a crucial role in in vitro studies for evaluating ruminant feed. Maintaining microbial activity in rumen fluid can serve as a breakthrough approach to reducing dependence on fresh rumen fluid collection by utilizing sequential culture techniques. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of rumen microbial inoculants through sequential cultures with a 48-hour incubation period. A completely randomized design was applied with four treatments: K1 = Culture 1 (inoculant derived from fresh rumen fluid), K2 = Culture 2 (inoculant derived from Culture 1), K3 = Culture 3 (inoculant derived from Culture 2), and K4 = Culture 4 (inoculant derived from Culture 3). The test substrates included dwarf elephant grass and Indigofera zollingeriana leaves using analysis in vitro sequential cultures adapted from Tilley and Terry (1963) and the Consecutive Batch Culture (CBC) method. Parameters measured included rumen fermentation characteristics such as pH, ammonia nitrogen (N-NH₃) concentration, total volatile fatty acid (VFA) production, and dry matter digestibility. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s HSD (Honest Significant Difference) test. The results showed that the sequential culture process significantly affected in vitro rumen fermentation characteristics. The pH remained stable within the optimal range (6.67–6.78). Increased culture sequences enhanced N-NH₃ concentration, total VFA production, and dry matter digestibility. It can be concluded that rumen microbial inoculants remain effective up to the fourth sequential culture for in vitro evaluation of ruminant feeds
Evaluation of Prunus africana bark extract as an organic alternative to synthetic growth promoters in broiler production
No full textThis study aimed to evaluate the effects of different egg storage durations on hatchability and internal egg quality of Co Lung duck eggs. A total of 10,000 eggs were incubated across five treatments representing different storage periods (T1: 1 day, T2: 3 days, T3: 5 days, T4: 7 days, T5: 10 days). Environmental data recorded at the storage site showed daily temperature variations from 26.4°C to 32.4°C and humidity ranging from 76.3% to 82.1%. Storage time significantly affected embryonic mortality, which increased from 4.8% (T1) to 11.5% (T5), and dead-in-shell rate, which rose from 2.1% to 5.4% (P < 0.01). Hatchability significantly declined from 78.5% (T1) to 68.7% (T5). Internal egg quality also deteriorated with prolonged storage (more than 5 days). The yolk index decreased from 0.41 to 0.34, albumen index from 0.05 to 0.02, and Haugh Unit from 83.5 to 69.2, indicating significant loss of freshness. Meanwhile, yolk ratio increased while albumen ratio decreased significantly (P < 0.05), suggesting moisture redistribution. No significant changes were observed in egg weight, shell thickness, or shell ratio. Overall, storage beyond 5 days led to reduced hatchability and poorer internal egg quality. Therefore, the optimal storage duration for Co Lung duck eggs is 3 to 5 days. Farmers and hatchery managers can incubate eggs within this period to maximize hatchability and freshness
Effects of Sulpiride on the Reproductive System of Male Rats after Puberty
Get PDFSulpiride is an antipsychotic drug commonly used in humans to mitigate the effects of stress by selectively targeting central dopaminergic receptors. During male rat puberty, neurotransmitter systems, including the dopaminergic system, undergo significant development, playing a crucial role in the release of gonadal hormones and the regulation of reproductive function. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of sulpiride on reproduction parameters in adult male rats. This study used 30 adult male rats with an average body weight of 250-300g and an average age of 90-95 days. The rats were randomly divided into three groups of 10 each. Group 1 (G1) received 10 mg/kg sulpiride, Group 2 (G2) received 25 mg/kg sulpiride, and the control group (G3) received normal saline, all administered via gavage. This study evaluated hematological (testosterone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, and Follicle-stimulating hormone) and histopathological parameters (spermatogenesis, seminiferous tubules, and total sperm count). The histopathology result of the testes from treated rats revealed significant histological changes. In G1, the seminiferous tubules exhibited destruction, with disrupted spermatogenesis and reduced numbers of sperm in the lumen. These changes were more pronounced in G2, which received the higher dose of sulpiride (25 mg/kg). In contrast, the control group (G3) displayed normal histological structures and spermatogenesis. Hormonal analysis showed a significant decrease in testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in G2 compared to G1 and G3. The hematological results for blood serum showed that the concentration of the hormone prolactin was also significantly increased in G2 treated with 25 mg/kg sulpiride as compared with G1 and G3; the concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels did not differ significantly across groups. Sperm motility and concentration were significantly reduced in G2 compared to G1 and G3, accompanied by a significant increase in the percentage of abnormal and dead sperm. Histological findings further confirmed severe destruction of the seminiferous tubules in G2 compared to G1 and the control group. In conclusion, administering sulpiride at concentrations of 10 mg/kg and 25 mg/kg in adult male rats caused significant structural and functional defects in the seminiferous tubules of the testes
Antimicrobial Activity of Ziziphus spina-christi against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Shigella flexneri
Get PDFAntibiotic resistance remains a global concern, with up to 1.91 million deaths projected to occur due to resistant Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria by 2050. The study hence aimed to assess the antimicrobial activity of Ziziphus spina-christi leaf extracts in relation to specific bacterial strains and elucidate the molecular mechanisms to validate the in vitro findings. Ziziphus spina-christi leaf extracts were tested against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Shigella flexneri (S. flexneri). The leaf powder was subjected to both aqueous and methanol-dichloromethane extraction. Phytochemical products were determined by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry for water extract and methanol dichloromethane extract, respectively. The agar well diffusion method, broth microdilution, and minimum bactericidal concentration against three bacterial species, S. aureus, E. coli, and S. flexneri, were used to assess the antibacterial activity of extracts. The results have shown that both plant extract has a significant level of antibacterial activity at higher concentrations (400 mg/ml) against the gram-positive bacteria. In addition, the methanol-dichloromethane extract exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria (S. flexneri, and E. coli), conversely, the water extract demonstrated a lower activity against S. flexneri and E. coli, with inhibition zones of 15 ± 0 mm for both bacteria. At a lower concentration (100 mg/ml), the methanol-dichloromethane extract produced inhibition zones of 19.6 ± 0.5 mm against S. aureus, closely followed by S. flexneri and E. coli. The water extract exhibited high antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria. However, exhibited reduced antibacterial activity against S. flexneri and E. coli, indicating a concentration-dependent antibacterial effect. Extraction methods were significantly different, with products generated from non-aqueous extraction demonstrating a higher potency against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria than the aqueous extract. Docking results demonstrated that water extract had a high binding activity against penicillin-binding proteins. Moreover, it serves as a potent beta-lactamase inhibitor as it binds to their active site, rendering them inactive and inhibiting the hydrolysis of Beta lactam antibiotics. In conclusion, the methanol-dichloromethane and water Ziziphus spina-christi leaves could be considered a promising source of antimicrobial ingredients
Oxidative Stress Markers, Antioxidant Balance, and Protein Metabolism in Dogs with Acute Prostatitis
Get PDFThe prostate gland in dogs is highly vulnerable to the action of negative pathogens due to its structure and topography. Among the numerous etiological factors in the development of prostatitis, inflammatory processes and oxidative stress play a predominant role, regardless of whether the condition is bacterial, viral, or autoimmune in origin. This study aimed to assess protein metabolism and redox balance indicators in the prostate tissue of dogs with acute prostatitis. For biochemical analyses, prostate tissue samples were taken from 24 mixed-breed dogs, including twelve animals that were considered healthy with no abnormalities of the genitourinary system (control group) and twelve animals with newly diagnosed acute prostatitis, from which samples were obtained via biopsy (experimental group). Following homogenization and sample preparation, all biochemical parameters in the prostate tissue were determined spectrophotometrically. The results of biochemical studies in dogs with acute prostatitis demonstrated a significant increase in the content of thiobarbiturate acid-reactive compounds by 102.2% and the level of lipid hydroperoxides by 35.7% compared to healthy dogs in the control group. In contrast, the total protein content was 32.9% lower than in the control group, while reduced glutathione levels decreased by 76.5%. Similar changes to the dynamics of oxidative stress markers were indicated by the activity of antioxidant enzymes, with glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities increasing by 61.3% and 21.8%, respectively, relative to the control group. These findings indicate the presence of oxidative stress in dogs with acute prostatitis. The biochemical changes observed in prostate tissue provide a foundation for future research aimed at developing therapeutic methods that incorporate anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant agents for the treatment of acute prostatitis in dogs
New Bacteriophages for Treating Canine External Otitis Caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius
Get PDFPhage therapy presents a promising approach to combating bacterial infections; however, its effectiveness is constrained by limitations such as weak lytic activity, narrow host range, and stability issues. Overcoming these challenges requires further research aimed at isolating new specific phages, developing phage cocktails, and expanding the host range to maximize the effectiveness of phage therapy. The present study aimed to isolate and characterize bacteriophages targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, which are the key pathogens responsible for canine external otitis. The study, conducted from 2023 to 2024 in veterinary clinics, involved 496 dogs of different ages, genders, and breeds. The current result revealed that three P. aeruginosa phage strains (Pa3, Pa7, Pa15) and three S. pseudintermedius phage strains (Sp6, Sp10, Sp17) showed high specificity and lytic activity against the corresponding pathogenic microorganisms isolated from dogs with signs of external otitis. All phages formed clear plaques on nutrient media, indicating their ability to destroy bacterial cells. The lytic activity of the phages was higher for Pa7 and Pa15, which lysed up to 92.8% of P. aeruginosa strains, while the Pa3 phage was active only against 71.4% of the strains. While phages Sp6 and Sp10 demonstrated superior lytic activity against S. pseudintermedius, Sp17 indicated the highest efficacy against canine-derived S. aureus isolates. The optimal phage-to-bacteria ratio for maximum effect was 0.0001 for all the studied phages. The latent period of the phages was up to 30 minutes, and virions were released in significant amounts within an hour after infection. The results demonstrated that all the phages exhibited high stability at temperatures ranging from +4°C to +40°C and within a pH range of 5 to 10, confirming their potential for use in the treatment of external otitis dogs. The results suggested that bacteriophages Pa3, Pa7, and Pa15 for P. aeruginosa, and Sp6, Sp10, and Sp17 for S. pseudintermedius are promising candidates for use in phage therapy for bacterial infections in dogs, as they exhibit high lytic activity, stability, and specificity towards their hosts
Advances in Hyaluronic Acid-Based Therapies
Get PDFHyaluronic acid (HA) is crucial in regulating stem cells and enhancing their therapeutic efficacy in chronic inflammatory diseases such as interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome )IC/BPS(. This study aimed to explore the potential of HA as a biomaterial for optimizing stem cell-based therapies in the treatment of IC/BPS. Due to its biocompatibility and bioactivity, HA serves as a supportive matrix that improves stem cell retention, survival, and function. Additionally, HA modulates stem cell behavior, promoting regeneration and anti-inflammatory response, which are essential for repairing the damaged bladder lining in animals. Its intrinsic anti-inflammatory properties further contribute to reducing inflammation and creating a favorable microenvironment for mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Furthermore, HA facilitates the controlled release of MSCs and other therapeutic agents, extending their benefits for chronic conditions like IC/BPS. The wide-ranging applications of HA in both animal models and human research underscore its potential as a therapeutic agent for various medical conditions. Preclinical studies have shown that HA supports tissue regeneration, reduces inflammation, and enhances stem cell retention, making it a valuable biomaterial for treating bladder inflammation, liver fibrosis, and cardiovascular disorders. In clinical settings, HA has been effectively applied in regenerative medicine, osteoarthritis management, wound healing, and drug delivery, demonstrating its biocompatibility and therapeutic effectiveness. These insights highlight HA’s role in translating experimental findings into clinical applications, paving the way for improved treatment approaches for chronic and inflammatory diseases. Overall, HA holds significant potential in enhancing the efficacy and long-term therapeutic outcomes of MSC-based treatments for chronic bladder disorders
Effects of Lactobacillus spp. Isolated from Ensiled Swamp Forage on Gastrointestinal Tract Development and Nutrient Digestibility in Native Ducks
Get PDFThe application of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), particularly Lactobacillus, as feed additives has demonstrated benefits for poultry, including enhanced gut function and better nutrient digestion. However, studies on LAB derived from swamp grass silage remain limited. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of supplementing Lactobacillus spp. (Lacto) solution derived from ensiled swamp forage (Hymenachne acutigluma) at different concentrations through drinking water on the relative weight and length, as well as intestinal density and nutrient digestibility of native ducks. The relationship between intestinal tract density and nutrient digestibility was assessed using the Pearson correlation coefficient. The present study involved sixty 24-week-old native ducks, divided into five groups with four replicates each. The groups included a control group and groups that received Lacto solutions in their drinking water. The Lacto solutions were at concentrations of 1×106 CFU/mL (Lacto 1), 1×107 CFU/mL (Lacto 2), 1×108 CFU/mL (Lacto 3), and 1×109 CFU/mL (Lacto 4). The current results indicated that supplementation of the Lacto solution in drinking water increased the relative weights of the proventriculus, small intestine, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and ceca. The relative weight and density of the intestine in the Lacto groups increased linearly with higher concentrations of Lacto solution. Compared to the control group, ducks receiving Lacto supplementation showed improved crude fiber digestibility (CFD) and a tendency to enhance organic matter digestibility (OMD). In 33-week-old ducks, a higher proventriculus density was associated with increased dry matter digestibility (DMD) and OMD. Additionally, the densities of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum were positively correlated with DMD, OMD, and CFD. The present findings indicated that the administration of Lacto solution at increasing concentrations up to 109 CFU/mL via drinking water effectively improved the development of the small intestines of ducks, which was indicated by an increase in the intestinal relative weight and density, as well as enhancing the OMD and CFD in the diets
The Pharmacological Study on Therapeutic Efficacy of the Herbal Preparation of Hypericum
Get PDFDyspepsia is a condition associated with digestive disorders, including diarrhea, weakness, dehydration, and intoxication. The investigation and application of therapeutic and prophylactic agents for managing gastrointestinal diseases in young cattle, including dyspepsia in newborn calves, is concerning. The present study aimed to investigate the biochemical mechanisms of action of Hypericum in the treatment of dyspepsia in newborn calves. Two groups of black and white breed bulls (five animals per group), aged 8-10 days, were assigned to assess the effects of Hypericum on biochemical parameters, including total protein, albumin, glucose, bilirubin, urea, creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase. Calves in the first group (n = 5), exhibiting pronounced signs of dyspepsia, were administered the treatment. This treatment consisted of 250 mL of Hypericum, combined with 500-700 mL of warm water, instead of milk, during the following two feedings. Then, milk was added to each serving of this mixture until the total volume reached 1.25-1.50 liters, and it was given to calves until clinical signs of recovery appeared. Calves of the second group (n = 5) were clinically healthy and received boiled water instead of the Hypericum. The current findings demonstrated that the biochemical parameters of the experimental calves improved following the administration of Hypericum, reaching levels comparable to those of clinically healthy calves. After prophylactic administration of Hypericum at a dose of 6.5 mL/kg during the first six feedings, the general condition of the experimental calves was satisfactory. In the experimental group of calves administered Hypericum at a dosage of 6.5 mL/kg mixed with milk over a period of two days, only one out of fifteen calves exhibited signs of dyspepsia, including liquid feces and lethargic behavior within the initial four days, representing a prevalence of 6.7%. Hypericum could prevent the occurrence of dyspepsia by 93%. The utilization of Hypericum had a therapeutic influence and positively impacted the clinical condition, behavior, and appetite of the calves