Anterior Vena Cava Research Articles

Effects of glutamate and aspartate on growth performance, serum amino acids, and amino acid transporters in piglets

ABSTRACT This study mainly investigated the effects of different dietary levels of glutamate (Glu) and aspartate (Asp) on growth performance, blood amino acids, and amino acid transporters in piglets. Forty-two healthy piglets were randomly divided into six groups (n = 7): a control group in which piglets were fed 2.9% Glu and 1.5% Asp and other groups in which piglets received 1.3% or 1.7% Asp and 2.6%, 3.2%, or 3.5% Glu for 21 days. Growth performance, serum amino acid profiles from the mesenteric vein, portal vein, and anterior vena cava, and amino acid transporters in the liver were determined. The results showed that lower doses of Asp promoted growth and enhanced the amino acids, while high doses of Asp and Glu reduced growth and the amino acid pool in piglets (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, 3.2% Glu increased branched chain amino acids in the portal vein and anterior vena cava (P < 0.05). 3.5% Glu downregulated SLC7A1, SLC7A7, and SLC6A19 expression in the liver (P < 0.05). Collectively, these results indicated that different dietary doses of Glu and Asp influenced growth performance and serum amino acid.

New Insights Into an Old Arrhythmia: High-Resolution Mapping Demonstrates Conduction and Substrate Variability in Right Atrial Macro-Re-Entrant Tachycardia.

Using high-resolution 3-dimensional (3D) mapping, the aim of this study was to further characterize right atrial macro-re-entrant tachycardias and answer unresolved questions in the understanding of this arrhythmia. Despite advances in understanding of the mechanisms of right atrial macro-re-entrant tachycardias, many questions lack definitive answers. The advent of high-resolution 3D mapping provides an opportunity to gain further insights into the nature of these common circuits. A total of 25 patients with right atrial macro-re-entrant tachycardia were studied. High-resolution 3D mapping (Rhythmia mapping system, Boston Scientific, Natick, Massachusetts) was performed. Regional voltage and conduction velocity were determined. Maps were analyzed to characterize wave front propagation patterns in all atrial regions. The relationship between substrate and conduction was evaluated. A total of 42 right atrial macro-re-entrant circuits were observed. The most common location of the posterior line of block was the posteromedial right atrium (73%). This line of block continued superiorly into the superior vena cava, taking an oblique course to finish on the anterior superior vena cava aspect in 73%. Conduction delay at the crista terminalis was less common (23%). Conduction slowing or block was seen at the limbus of the fossa ovalis (73%) and Eustachian ridge (77%). Highly variable and localized areas of slow conduction were also observed in the inferior septum (45%), superior septum (27%), anterosuperior right atrium (23%), and lateral right atrium (23%). Localized conduction slowing was seen in the cavotricuspid isthmus in 50% of patients, but there was no generalized conduction slowing in this isthmus. The voltage in regions of slow conduction was significantly lower compared with areas of normal conduction velocity (p< 0.001). Conduction channels were observed in 55% of patients. High-resolution 3D mapping has provided new insights into the nature of right atrial macro-re-entrant tachycardias. Variable regions of abnormal atrial substrate were associated with conduction slowing and block. Individual variation in propagation patterns was observed in association with this variable substrate. (Mapping of Atrial Arrhythmias Using High Spatial Resolution Mapping Catheters and the Rhythmia Mapping System; ACTRN12615000544572).

Effects of a multi-strain spp. direct-fed microbial and a protease enzyme on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood characteristics, fecal microbiota, and noxious gas emissions of grower pigs fed corn-soybean-meal-based diets—A meta-analysis

Three studies involving 352 grower pigs were conducted to determine the effects of dietary supplementation with multistrain spp. direct-fed microbial (DFM) and protease, alone or in combination, on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood characteristics, fecal microbiota, and noxious gas emissions, and to use a meta-analysis to increase the reliability of the findings. Treatments ( = 4) were set up as a 2 × 2 factorial design with 2 levels of protease (0 and 5.000/6.000 units/kilogram of feed [U/KG]) and 2 levels of DFM (0 and 1.5 × 10 colony forming units/gram of feed [CFU/G]), plus a protease + DFM combination. Pigs were housed in groups of 3 or 4/pen with 8 replicate pens/treatment. Experimental diets were fed for 42 d and feed intake and BW were measured weekly. Fecal samples were collected at d 42 and analyzed to determine apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD). Fecal counts of and coliforms, and noxious gas emissions were measured. Blood samples were taken by anterior vena cava puncture to measure blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. Data from the 3 studies were pooled and analyzed as a 2 × 2 factorial using the Fit Model platform of JMP 11 (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC). Means separation was determined using Tukey's honest significant difference test. The main effect of protease and DFM increased: BW at 42 d, overall ADG, and overall G:F compared to the control ( < 0.04). There were no interactions between protease and DFM ( > 0.05); however, the protease + DFM combination was the only treatment to improve ADG and G:F in all phases compared to the control. The main effect of protease increased ATTD of DM, nitrogen (N), and ADF ( < 0.04). The main effect of DFM increased ATTD of DM, N, GE, DE, ADF, and fat ( < 0.02). There was a trend for an interaction between protease and DFM for ATTD of GE and DE ( < 0.08) because the protease + DFM combination increased energy digestibility more than the additive effects of the protease and DFM alone. The main effects of protease and DFM decreased fecal ammonia emissions ( < 0.01), but the protease + DFM combination was the only treatment to decrease ammonia emissions compared to the control. In conclusion, the main effects of protease and DFM improved growth performance and nutrient digestibility compared to the control, but there was a greater additive effect of the protease + DFM combination on energy and N digestibility.

Identification of some plasma biomarkers associated with early weaning stress in crossbred piglets

The present study was undertaken to examine the physiological effects of early weaning of crossbred piglets and identify a panel of plasma-based biomarkers. Eighteen crossbred (Landrace × indigenous) suckling piglets were assigned to one of the two treatments on the day of weaning: (1) control (n = 9), piglets were loose-housed with their dam and (2) weaned (n = 9), piglets were abruptly selected from their dam and kept in a separate pen. Ad libitum water was supplied to all pens for drinking and all the piglets received same concentrate diet with free access. The blood was collected from anterior vena cava on d −3, 1, 3, 7, and 15 relative to weaning (day 1) and measured for oxidative stress indicators (total antioxidant; TA and nitric oxide; NOx), acute phase proteins (haptoglobin; Hp and ceruloplasmin; Cp), high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1), inflammatory cytokines (interferon-gamma;IFN-γ, tumor necrosis factor- alpha;TNF-α, and interleukin-1beta; IL-1β), and chemokines (intercellular adhesion molecule-1; ICAM-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1;MCP-1 and transforming growth factor beta 1; TGF-β1). It is concluded that MCP-1, Hp, and HMGB1 protein are the potential biomarkers besides NOx and IL-1β which are the sensitive indicator of physiological stress in early weaned piglets. In the future, the determination of these markers would definitely help in identifying the weaned piglets with substantial stress condition which in turn help to find out the strategies for effective and efficient management of piglets to make the pig husbandry an economically profitable, environmentally sustainable, and ecologically viable industry.

Динаміка вмісту загальних ліпідів у еритроцитах свиней різних типів вищої нервової діяльності за дії стресових факторів

Динаміка вмісту загальних ліпідів у еритроцитах свиней різних типів вищої нервової діяльності за дії стресових факторів

Livestock Precision Farming and the Kit Radicaux Libres Test: Two Simple Approaches to Detect Variation in Piglets’ Behaviour and Welfare

&lt;p&gt;In commercial practice, the mixing of pigs from different litters is very frequently done in order to minimise the within-pen variation in weight. Aggressive behavior can be easily observed when unknown pigs are mixed into a group. Post-mixing fighting occurs between pigs that are unfamiliar with each other and some times leads to serious injury. For the establishment of social hierarchy, aggression may occur. The aim of the study was to evaluate the response of piglets fed and not with dietary plant extract (PE) when exposed to mixing-induced&lt;strong&gt; s&lt;/strong&gt;tress. Behavioural and physiological indicators combined with Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) methods were used. A total of 84 female piglets (Dalland), (average live weight 5.53 ± 0.1 kg, corresponding to day 0 of experimental trial) divided into 6 pens of 14 piglets each were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments: a control diet (CON) and a diet supplemented with 5 mg/kg feed of plant extract (PE). At 37 d of the experimental trial, half the animals of two treated pens (7+7) and half the animals of two control pens (7+7) were mixed. The experimental trial lasted 59 days. Blood from piglets of each treatment was collected by anterior vena cava puncture before mixing, on day 37, and after mixing, on day 39, for assessing total blood antioxidant activity, by Kit Radicaux Libres (KRL) test and haptoglobin (HPT) and cortisol concentration as biological indicators of stress. Behaviour measurements were performed using an ethological rating scale and Precision Livestock Farming methods as indicator of qualitative behavioural assessment. Dietary treatment and mixing affected total antioxidant activity (&lt;em&gt;P&lt;/em&gt; &amp;lt; 0.05) of whole blood that was higher in the PE group and after mixing. A trend effect of mixing was found for cortisol and haptoglobin which were significantly (&lt;em&gt;P&lt;/em&gt; &amp;lt; 0.05) lower in the PE group. The rating scale and PLF showed significant variation in the abnormal animal behaviours due to mixing; continuous monitoring of pigs by PLF showed more (&lt;em&gt;P&lt;/em&gt; &amp;lt; 0.05) animal activity in the PE group than in CON. In this context, the behaviour measurements were demonstrated to be simple and reliable tools for evaluating pig behaviour and KRL test was an effective method for assessing antioxidant activity. &lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Association between hematological status at weaning and weight gain post-weaning in piglets

The objective of the study was to determine the associations between hematological parameters at weaning and post-weaning weight gain in piglets. Five well-managed conventional herds of average herd size of 1000 sows were selected. All herds provided a single injectable iron (either i.m. or s.c, 200mg) supplementation from different commerical products at 3–4 days of life. Within each herd, litters belonging to a weekly farrowing batch close to weaning were identified and among them 20 litters were chosen randomly after exclusion of nursing sows. Within each litter, a random piglet was selected. EDTA and non-stabilized blood sample was taken from the anterior Vena cava of each piglet 1–3 days before weaning (average weaning age of 25.7 days) and analyzed by complete hematology including serum iron and total iron binding capacity (TIBC). The associations between each measured hematological parameter and the average daily gain (ADG) of piglets in a three-week period were tested using PROC MIXED procedure in SAS. A total of 99 piglets were included in the study but 3 were lost during follow up. The average hemoglobin concentration of piglets was 121.5±15gl−1 and the ADG was 202.9±78.4g day−1. A positive association between hemoglobin and ADG in the three-week period (p=0.0003) was observed. Also, red blood cells (p<0.0001) and hematocrit (p=0.0005) had positive association with ADG while red blood cell distribution width (p=0.05), hemoglobin distribution width (p=0.04), and reticulocyte red cell distribution width (p=0.01) had a negative association with ADG. Hence the results indicate that improved hematological status at weaning is positively correlated to weight gain post-weaning. An increase in 10g hemoglobin/l blood corresponded to a weight gain improvement of 17.2g daily weight gain in the 3 weeks post-weaning period. The strategies for improving the hematological values of piglets at weaning need to be further investigated.

Effects of Graded Levels of Chromium Methionine on Performance, Carcass Traits, Meat Quality, Fatty Acid Profiles of Fat, Tissue Chromium Concentrations, and Antioxidant Status in Growing-Finishing Pigs.

A 97-day feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary chromium methionine (CrMet) on performance, carcass traits, meat quality, fatty acid profiles of fat, tissue chromium concentrations, and antioxidant status in growing-finishing pigs. A total of 180 crossbred pigs with a mean initial body weight (BW) 30.18 ± 0.28kg were allotted to 5 treatments with 6 replicates per treatment and 6 pigs per pen in a randomized complete block design based on BW and sex. Treatments were added with 0 (control), 100, 200, 400, and 800μg/kg chromium as CrMet. Blood samples were obtained from the anterior vena cava on days 97. Carcass characteristics, pork quality, and tissue chromium concentration data were collected from one pig per pen. The results indicated that supplemental CrMet did not significantly affect growth performance, carcass traits, or meat amino acid profiles. Chromium at 100, 400, and 800μg/kg decreased drip loss but increased shear force (P < 0.05). Pigs fed 100 or 400μg/kg had a higher 24-h pH than the control (P < 0.05). While meat color, muscle moisture, crude protein, or crude fat were not affected by CrMet. Supplemental 800μg/kg chromium reduced C18:0 levels in belly fat (P < 0.05), and chromium supplementation increased cis-9, trans 11-conjugated linoleic acid levels linearly (P < 0.05). Dietary CrMet supplementation increased serum, kidney, and muscle chromium contents (P < 0.05) but did not affect liver chromium contents. Besides, tissue chromium concentrations were increased linearly with increased chromium dosage (P < 0.05). Chromium at 400μg/kg increased serum glutathione peroxidase activities (P < 0.05), and chromium at 800μg/kg decreased serum total antioxidant capacity levels (P < 0.05). Nevertheless, liver and kidney antioxidant status were not significantly affected by CrMet. These results indicated that dietary supplementation CrMet did not significantly influence growth and carcass traits, but improved meat quality at the expense of tenderness. Therefore, the long-term exposure to 800μg/kg chromium affected fatty acid compositions and reduced serum antioxidant capacity.

Hematologic and biochemical reference intervals for Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) captured by cage trap

Establishing reference intervals (RI) for hematologic and biochemical variables in wild animals presents great challenges because capture stress or anesthesia during sampling can affect blood variables. The aims of this study were to establish RI for hematologic and blood biochemistry variables for Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) caught using cage traps, and provide information on the studied variables for different age groups. Blood samples were obtained from 89 Wild Boars captured by cage trap between 2005 and 2013 in northeastern Spain. Piglets were handled without anesthesia, while juvenile and adult animals were anesthetized using a combination of tiletamine and zolazepam. Blood samples were collected from the anterior vena cava and were placed into plain and EDTA tubes. Thirteen hematologic and 21 biochemical variables were determined. Reference intervals for piglets and juvenile and adult groups were determined, and differences between these groups were statistically analyzed. Adults had higher HGB, PCV, MCH, MCHC, neutrophil count, and total protein, albumin, creatinine, and chloride concentrations than juveniles; in contrast, juveniles had higher values for lymphocyte count, cholesterol concentration, and ALP activity. Reference intervals determined in this study provide a baseline for interpreting hematologic and biochemical results in Wild Boar at different age stages, and contribute to optimization of the management of this species.

Experimental computed tomography-guided vena cava puncture in pigs for percutaneous brachytherapy of middle mediastinal lymph node metastases.

Background:Percutaneous brachytherapy is a valuable method for the treatment of lung cancer and mediastinal lymph nodes metastasis. However, in some of the metastatic lymph nodes in the middle mediastinum, the percutaneous approach cannot be used safely due to possible damage to surrounding anatomical structures. We established an animal model (group of 12 pigs) to assess the safety and feasibility of computed tomography (CT)-guided vena cava puncture.Methods:Under CT guidance, an 18G needle was used to puncture the anterior wall of the anterior vena cava (AVC) in 12 pigs. The 18G needle was chosen as it is similar in size to the needles employed for clinical application in brachytherapy. The incidence of complications and vital signs was monitored during the procedure. Thoracotomy was performed to remove AVC specimens, which were analyzed for histological evidence of vessel wall damage and repair.Results:Following postoperative enhanced CT, two animals were found to have a small pneumothorax (one being hemopneumothorax). The intraoperative oxygen saturation of both animals was not significantly decreased and was maintained at 93–100%. No animals developed mediastinal hematoma. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative changes in blood pressure, heart rate, hemoglobin, and blood oxygen saturation were not significant. Histological evaluation of AVC specimens showed that by 7 days following the procedure, the endothelial layer was smooth with notable scar repair in the muscularis layer.Conclusions:CT performed after the procedure and histological preparations confirmed the safety of the procedure. This indicates that percutaneous brachytherapy for metastatic middle mediastinal lymph nodes can be carried out via the superior vena cava.

Histomorphochemical studies on cardiac conduction system of prenatal buffalo

Histomorphological and histochemical studies were conducted on cardiac conduction system of buffalo heart during prenatal development. Foetuses (20) ranging from 13 cm CVRL (87days) to 104 cm CVRL (308 days) were used for study. The heart tissues were fixed in 10% buffered neutral formalin (BNF) and routinely processed. The paraffin sections of 5–7 μm thickness were stained with various stains to study the histomorphological and histochemical details. The study revealed that sinoatrial node was subepicardial and wedged at the junction of anterior vena cava with right atrium in 25 cm CVRL (130 days) foetus. Nodal and Purkinje type specialized cells were observed in sinoatrial node. The atrio-ventricular node was present in the base of atrial septum in front of coronary sinus under the endocardium. The branch of right bundle was first noticed in 13 cm CVRL (87 days) buffalo foetus. The sinoatrial node and right bundle branch showed intense reaction for acid and neutral mucopolysaccharides and basic proteins in all the age. A moderate to strong sudanophilic reaction was found in Purkinje fibers, nodal cells of sinoatrial node and branch of right bundle.

Crista Terminalis as the Anterior Pathway of Typical Atrial Flutter: Insights from Entrainment Map with 3D Intracardiac Ultrasound.

The precise location of truly active reentry circuits of typical atrial flutter (AFL) has not been well identified. The purpose of this study was to verify our hypothesis that the posterior block line is located along the posteromedial right atrium (PMRA) and the crista terminalis (CT) is the anterior pathway of AFL, with real-time intracardiac echo (ICE). The entire right atrium (RA) three-dimensional activation and entrainment mapping were evaluated during AFL in 18 patients using CARTO sound. The CT was clearly visualized by ICE and the local electrograms along the CT were single potentials in all the patients. The CT was recognized as the truly active anterior pathway based on entrainment mapping in all patients. Double potentials were recorded along the PMRA. Entire RA entrainment mapping could be performed in 16 patients. The reentry circuits were separated into three passages. The first was around the tricuspid annulus (TA), the second the anterior superior vena cava (SVC; AFL waves passed between the anterior SVC and RA appendage), and the last the posterior SVC (between the posterior SVC and upper limit of the PMRA). All three of these passages were active in four, around the TA and anterior SVC in eight, around the TA and posterior SVC in three, and around only the anterior SVC in one patient. The CT functions as the anterior pathway of typical AFL, and the posterior block line was located along the PMRA. Dual or triple circuits were recognized in the majority of AFL patients.

Laparoscopic Resection of a Large Functional Paraganglioma of the Organ of Zuckerkandl

Background: Paragangliomas of the organ of Zuckerkandl (PZ) are rare extra-adrenal pheochromocytomas, and according to a recent systematic review,1 only 135 cases have been reported so far. Detection and appropriate treatment of these tumors is important because PZ have a mortality rate of 43% when presenting acutely. While the utility of the laparoscopic approach in adrenal pheochromocytoma is well established, information on the safety and effectiveness of this approach in PZ is still very sparse. Materials and Methods: Here, we describe the successful laparoscopic resection of a large functional PZ in a 20-year-old woman with infrequent, but severe, hypertensive crises. Urinary metanephrines were three to five times higher than the upper limit of the normal range, and a CT scan revealed a large spherical (10 cm in diameter) abdominal mass, overlying the vena cava and the aorta, from the subpancreatic area to iliac bifurcation. We excised the tumor by the transperitoneal laparoscopic approach. The patient has been placed in the flank position, elevated at ~60°. Trocars were placed following the classical right nephrectomy scheme, with the camera in a lower position to allow a better visualization of the interaortocaval groove. Laparoscopy produced excellent exposure, allowing proper identification of the tumor origin and its relation to adjacent organs. Initially, we did a Kocher maneuver to mobilize the whole cefalo-duodenal-pancreatic bloc and the third and fourth part of duodenum to totally free the anterior vena cava and aorta. Next, we begin preparing the tumor, by leaving laterally the right ureter and clipping large vessels arising from the right iliac axis. We freed the interaortocaval groove by clipping and sectioning two or three retrocaval vessels. Then, we resected the inferior mesenteric artery and divided the blood vessels coming, directly, from the aorta and vena cava. At the end, full resection was completed uneventfully, and the tumor was retrieved in a bag through an enlarged incision of the periumbilical port. Results: Postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was symptom-free and normotensive. After 1 month, urinary metanephrine dosage was in the normal range. Discussion: Available experience, although limited, suggests that laparoscopic exploration of suspected extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma is an appropriate approach to estimate the extension of the tumor and its resectability. Conclusions: The postoperative follow-up showed the success of the described surgical approach. Appropriate patient preparation and intraoperative and postoperative monitoring appear critical for the successful clinical management of Zuckerkandl paragangliomas. No competing financial interests exist. Running time: 6 mins, 29 secs

Supplementation of a wheat-based diet low in phosphorus with microbial 6-phytase expressed in Aspergillus oryzae increases digestibility and plasma phosphorus but not performance in lactating sows

Phosphorus (P) in most diets for sows is poorly digested because pigs do not produce salivary or gastric phytase to hydrolyze P from phytate (inositol hexaphosphate), thus leading to a relatively high amount of P in the manure. An experiment was carried out to study the efficacy of a novel bacterial 6-phytase produced by a strain of Aspergillus oryzae expressing two synthetic genes, both mimicking a phytase gene from a Citrobacter braakii strain. The apparent total tract digestibility coefficient (CATTD) of P, calcium (Ca), crude protein (CP), and gross energy, concentrations of plasma variables, and sow performance were used as response variables. In total, 45 crossbred gestating sows (Large white×Landrace) were individually housed with their litter. Three diets were prepared: (1) positive control (PC; 5.2g available P/kg), regular sow diet containing inorganic P; (2) negative control (NC; 2.0g available P/kg) without inorganic P; and (3) NC+500 FTU/kg diet (NC+PHY). Each diet was fed to 15 sows for 21 days (from day 108 of gestation to day 15 of lactation). To the diets, 3.0g titanium dioxide/kg was added as a marker to determine CATTD of nutrients. Blood samples were collected from the anterior vena cava at day 1 and 15 of lactation to determine plasma minerals (P, Ca, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc) and plasma urea, glucose, total protein, albumin, and globulin. At day 15 of lactation, CATTD of P did not differ between PC and NC. Phytase supplementation to NC increased (P<0.05) CATTD of P from 0.34 to 0.46 compared to NC, but did not affect CATTD of CP, gross energy, and Ca. On day 1 of lactation, plasma P was 0.66mmol/L lower (P<0.05) in sows fed NC than PC. Phytase supplementation to NC increased (P<0.05) plasma P by 0.40mmol/L on day 1 but not on day 15 of lactation. Sow performance measured as feed intake and body weight changes did not differ between PC and NC or phytase supplementation to NC. In conclusion, phytase supplementation increased P bioavailability in lactating sows. Feeding a P-reduced diet during the first 2 weeks of lactation did not reduce sow performance.

Effect of supplementing zinc with and without phytase on serum and bristle zinc of pigs

Twenty four castrated weaned (42d, 11.39kg) piglets were used to determine the influence of dietary zinc (0 or 50 ppm/kg) and phytase (0 or 200FTU phytase units/kg) supplementation on the zinc status in blood and bristles of pig. Blood was collected from the anterior vena cava and bristles of all pigs were collected at monthly interval during 180 days of experimental feeding. Growth rate (358g/d) was fastest (P<.05) for pigs fed phytase and zinc supplemented diets. The mean serum Zn (P<.05) concentrations of 1.055ppm and bristle Zn concentration (P>.05) of 149.98 g/g fresh tissue were recorded with phytase addition. These results of weight gain and zinc status in bristles and serum indicated that the growth-promoting effect of phytase might be due to overall increase in zinc concentration indicating successful delivery and absorption of zinc supplements.

Effects of the tiletamine/zolazepam-xylazine-tramadol combination on plasma oxidative status and haematological indicators in miniature pigs

Oxidative stress in the body occurs when the production of free radicals overwhelms the antioxidant defence systems. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a tiletamine/zolazepam-xylazine-tramadol combination on the antioxidant status, lipoperoxidase and blood cell indicators in eight miniature pigs. Baseline measures were recorded prior to anaesthesia, then the animals were anaesthetized with the combination of tiletamine/zolazepam (3.5 mg/kg), xylazine (1.32 mg/kg), and tramadol (1.8 mg/kg). Blood samples were collected from the anterior vena cava at 15, 30, 60, 90, 120 min, 24 h, and 72 h after anaesthesia. Plasma malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase concentrations were measured by colorimetry, and red blood cell counts, white blood cell counts, haemoglobin and packed cell volume were determined using an automated cell counter. The results showed that the concentration of malondialdehyde increased significantly at 30 and 60 min after the injection (P &lt; 0.05), whereas glutathione peroxidase and catalase activity increased slightly (P &gt; 0.05) then returned to baseline values after 90 min (P &gt; 0.05). Superoxide dismutase activity increased significantly (P &lt; 0.05) at 30 and 60 min, and then gradually decreased to baseline values after 90 min. Changes in red blood cell counts, haemoglobin and packed cell volume were not significant, while white blood cell count decreased significantly (P &lt; 0.05) at 30 and 60 min. Our study is the first to demonstrate that tiletamine/zolazepam-xylazine-tramadol provide antioxidant effects, which may be proposed for alleviating the stress of examination and research at veterinary clinics or long-distance transportation.

Structural and Functional Properties of Venous Wall: Relationship between Elastin, Collagen, and Smooth Muscle Components and Viscoelastic Properties

The aims of this work were (1) to analyze the viscoelastic behavior of different venous segments and their differences, considering the structural characteristics (elastin, collagen, and smooth muscle content) of the venous wall; (2) to analyze the venous biomechanical behavior by means of the histological characteristics of the veins. Nine healthy male Corriedale sheep were included. One vein was selected from each animal to evaluate its biomechanical properties: (a) anterior vena cava, (b) right jugular vein, and (c) right femoral vein. Each selected vein was instrumented with pressure and diameter sensors. After excision, a small ring-shaped sample was set apart from each segment for histological analysis. The amounts of elastin, collagen and smooth muscle were correlated to calculated biomechanical parameters (high- and low-pressure compliance and viscosity). Conclusions are the following: (1) the viscoelastic behavior of the venous wall varies depending on the vascular territory, and it is associated with the variation of the histological structure. These differences involve muscle (both smooth and striated), elastin, and collagen contents. (2) In addition, the quantity of collagen was negatively correlated with high- and low-pressure compliances, and (3) the smooth muscle content was higher in peripheral veins and is positively correlated with venous wall viscosity.

Time-response relationship of ractopamine feeding on growth performance, plasma urea nitrogen concentration, and carcass traits of finishing pigs1

Ractopamine hydrochloride (RAC) improves swine production efficiency by redirecting nutrients to favor muscle accretion rather than fat deposition. In the present study, the time-dependent effect of RAC feeding on performance, plasma urea N (PUN) concentrations, and carcass traits of finishing pigs were evaluated. In a 28-d growth study, 80 barrows (average initial BW = 69.4 ± 7.9 kg) were assigned to 1 of 5 treatments in a randomized complete block design with 8 replicate pens per treatment and 2 pigs per pen. The pigs were fed a corn-soybean meal-based diet with no added RAC (control) or 10 mg of RAC/kg fed for 7, 14, 21, or 28 d before slaughter. All diets were formulated to contain 0.88% standardized ileal digestible Lys (1.0% total Lys) and 3.23 Mcal of ME/kg. Individual pig BW and pen feed disappearance were recorded weekly to determine BW changes, ADG, ADFI, and G:F. Anterior vena cava blood samples were taken on d 28 for determination of PUN concentrations. After 28 d on trial, the pigs were slaughtered and carcass measurements made at 24 h postmortem. Overall, providing pigs with different RAC feeding durations did not affect the final BW and ADFI but resulted in a tendency (P = 0.09) for a linear increase in ADG and a linear improvement (P = 0.003) in G:F. No effect of RAC feeding was found for weekly ADFI. Weekly improvements (P < 0.05) in ADG and G:F were observed over the first 21 d of RAC feeding. However, the growth response declined (P < 0.05) in wk 4 of RAC treatment. The concentrations of PUN exhibited a quadratic decrease (P = 0.004) as the RAC feeding duration increased. Although RAC feeding did not affect any backfat measurements and carcass length, increasing the RAC feeding duration linearly increased HCW (P = 0.01), dressing percentage (P = 0.03), LM depth (P = 0.001), LM area (P < 0.001), muscle-to-fat ratio (P = 0.004), and predicted carcass lean percentage (P = 0.02). These results indicate that a greater growth rate was achieved within the first 21 d of RAC feeding whereas the magnitude of carcass response was directly dependent on the duration of RAC feeding.

Influence of Lippia citriodora verbascoside on growth performance, antioxidant status, and serum immunoglobulins content in piglets

Phytogenic feed additives are used in animal feeding to improve livestock performance. The aim of this study was to determine whether a dietary plant extract from Lippia citriodora, standardized for verbascoside, can modify various immunological, oxidative, and biochemical serum parameters in weaned piglets. A total of 144 piglets, half female and half barrows (7.99 &amp;plusmn; 1.40 kg BW), were allocated to three dietary treatments with six replicates per treatment (pens of 8 piglets each). Piglets were supplemented with the following levels of plant extract standardized for verbascoside: 0 (CON = control group), 5 (LV = low verbascoside group), or 10 (HV = high verbascoside group) mg/kg of diet for 56 days. Body weight (BW) and feed consumption were recorded at days 0 and 56 to determine the average daily gain and gain : feed. Twelve piglets from each treatment were randomly selected, and blood was collected by anterior vena cava puncture on days 0, 14, and 56 for glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, urea, and oxidative status, and on days 0 and 56 for IgG and IgA concentrations. The HV group grew more (P &amp;lt; 0.05) than the CON and LV groups. No significant differences were observed for any of the biochemical parameters between the groups; urea, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, and low density lipoprotein cholesterol increased significantly over time. Reactive oxygen metabolites (ROM) showed significant time, time &amp;times; treatment, and treatment effects (P &amp;lt; 0.001). Both serum Igs increased (P &amp;lt; 0.005, P &amp;lt; 0.001 for IgG and IgA respectively) over time in all groups; treatment (P &amp;lt; 0.05), and time &amp;times; treatment (P = 0.056) effects were found for serum IgA concentration. The Lippia citriodora verbascoside positively influenced antioxidant status and IgA content with a tendential effect on growth performance. &amp;nbsp;

Effects of cecal oxytetracycline infusion, and dietary avidin and biotin supplementation on the biotin status of nongravid gilts1

The objective of this 49-d experiment was to test effects of cecal oxytetracycline (OTC) infusion, and dietary avidin and biotin supplementation on the biotin status of nongravid gilts. Twenty-eight crossbred gilts with an initial age of 160 d and BW of 120 kg were surgically fitted with a T-cannula in the terminal ileum, a cecal fistula, and an indwelling catheter in the anterior vena cava, and allotted to 7 dietary treatments. Treatments with the basal semipurified (SP) diet fed at 1.86 kg/d were: SP-1, negative control; SP-2, positive control with 270 μg of biotin/kg; SP-3, with spray-dried egg albumen (EA, 100 g/d) and OTC (2.56 g/d by cecal infusion); and SP-4, with EA, OTC, and 700 μg of biotin/kg. Treatments with the basal corn-soybean meal (CS) diet fed at 1.80 kg/d were: CS-1, negative control; CS-2, with EA and OTC; and CS-3, with EA, OTC, and 700 μg of biotin/kg. Response criteria were: fecal bacteria counts; plasma concentrations of biotin, glucose, and urea N (PUN); liver pyruvate carboxylase (PC) activity; kidney and epithelial tissue histology; ileal and fecal biotin concentrations; ileal and total tract N and energy utilization; daily gilt observation; and BW gain. Blood samples were collected every 7 d with serial samples collected on d 49. Total urine collections and fecal grab samples were made twice daily from d 44 to 49. Gilts were killed on d 50 and liver, kidney, and skin samples were collected. No gilts had symptoms of biotin deficiency. There were no treatment differences in BW gain, plasma glucose concentrations, liver PC activity, kidney and epithelial tissue histology, or fecal bacteria counts. Ileal and total tract N and energy digestibilities (%) did not differ among treatments within the same protein source, with greater (P ≤ 0.05) values for gilts on the SP treatments than the CS treatments. However, N retained/N absorbed and N retained/N intake (%) were less (P ≤ 0.05) and PUN concentrations were greater (P ≤ 0.05) for SP treatments with cecal OTC infusion. The overall fecal biotin concentration mean was 2.6-fold greater than the overall ileal biotin concentration mean. In conclusion, no gilts in the current experiment became biotin deficient because the biotin requirements were met primarily by microbial synthesis and absorption of biotin from the distal small intestine and large intestine, with corn and soybean meal contributing endogenous biotin. Therefore, supplementation of diets for gilts entering the breeding herd with 100% of the current NRC biotin requirement for sows is adequate.