Serum Biochemical Parameters Research Articles

Exploring AMH levels, homeostasis parameters, and ovarian primordial follicle activation in pubertal infected sheep on a high-protein diet

“Exploring AMH Levels, Homeostasis and Primordial Follicle Activation in Pubertal Infected Sheep on a High Protein Diet “.The first activation wave of ovarian primordial follicles is part of the onset of puberty and fertility. Abomasal helminth infection may cause an undesirable delay in puberty manifestation. Helminth-infected animals demand a higher amount of protein in their diet to repair the damage caused by the parasite in sheep's tissues, replenish the blood losses, and build the host's immune response. Helminths become resistant to drug therapy shortly after being exposed to a new treatment. Besides, there is the possibility of contamination by anthelmintic drugs in ovine products, possibly affecting human health and the environment. This study's objective was to evaluate if ovarian and clinical parameters can be improved by supplementing their diet with protein, offering a more sustainable management approach than relying on anthelmintic usage. We used a 2 × 2 factorial model where eighteen ewe lambs (Ovis aries) between 6 and 7 months old - born to the same ram - were fed one of two diet protein levels (12% or 19%). After 35 days on this diet, they were infected or left uninfected with 10,000 Haemonchus contortus L3 larvae. We evaluated Anti-Mullerian Hormone serum levels, blood cells and biochemical parameters at four different time points. Following 42 days of infection and 77 days on the diet, the lambs had their left ovaries removed, and we examined ovarian morphometrics through histological analysis. The groups Supplemented Protein-Infected(n = 5), Control Protein- Infected(n = 5), Supplemented Protein-Not Infected (n = 4) and Control Protein-Not Infected (n = 4) did not differ in their bodyweight gain. In the factorial ANOVA analysis examining the relationship between plasma protein, diet, and infection, the protein level of the diet showed significance (p = 0.02). Primordial follicle size varied with the interaction between diet and infection (p < 0.05), and oocyte size was affected by the level of protein in the diet (p = 0.047). Additionally, to understand how all homeostasis parameters relate to the primordial follicle and oocyte size, we applied an explanatory linear mixed model. In conclusion, serum AMH levels remained stable despite the infection and variations in diet protein levels, indicating its reliability as a marker for ovarian reserve in pubertal sheep. The number of blood cells, biochemical parameters, and primordial follicle activation were affected by both diet and infection.

Effects of yeast extract supplemented in diet on growth performance, digestibility, intestinal histology, and the antioxidant capacity of the juvenile turbot (Scophthalmus maximus).

An 8-week feeding experiment was conducted on the juvenile turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) to evaluate the influence of yeast extract (YE) supplementation in the diet on growth performance, feed utilization, body composition, nutrient digestibility, intestinal histology, and antioxidant capacity. Four experimental diets were formulated with graded levels of yeast extract 0 (YE0), 1% (YE1), 3% (YE3), and 5% (YE5) and fed to turbots (initial body weight: 4.2 ± 0.1g) with three replicates per diet and 200 fish in each replicate, respectively. The results showed that turbots fed with diets YE1 and YE3 displayed a significantly higher specific growth rate and protein efficiency rate than those fed with diets YE0 and YE5, while the feed conversion ratios in YE1 and YE3 groups were lower than those in YE0 and YE5. Fish fed with diets YE3 and YE5 showed higher body crude protein contents than those in groups YE0 and YE1. The highest apparent digestibility coefficients for dry matter and crude protein, digestive enzyme activities (trypsin, lipase, and amylase), and the height of the intestinal fold were observed in the YE3 group. YE3 treatment displayed a significantly higher superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity than the YE0 group, while the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in YE1 was significantly lower than those in YE0 and YE5. No significant difference was observed in serum physiological and biochemical parameters among all treatments. Overall, appropriate dietary supplementation of the yeast extract could improve the growth performance, digestibility, and antioxidant capacity of the juvenile turbot, and the recommended yeast extract level in the feed is 2.47%.

Indexing serum and mucous biochemical parameters of endangered Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis with implications for health assessment.

The Chinese sturgeon (Acipenser sinensis) is a critically endangered aquatic fish. Health monitoring and welfare assessments are critical for the conservation of Chinese sturgeon. In this study, biochemical parameters of serum and skin mucus in Chinese sturgeon were examined to evaluate the potential biomarkers. Serum and mucous samples were obtained from Chinese sturgeon, and the levels of total protein (TP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), lactic acid (LD), acid phosphatase (ACP), lysozyme (LYZ), glucose (GLU), and cortisol were determined. The concentrations of ALT, AST, cortisol, and LYZ were significantly higher in the mucous group than those in the serum group (p < 0.05). In addition, the concentrations of ALP, ACP, LD, LDH, CK, and TP were significantly higher level in the serum group than those in the mucous group (p < 0.05). Moreover, the correlations between serum and mucous biochemical parameters were established. Statistical analysis showed a positive correlation between serum and skin mucous markers (ACP, cortisol, and LYZ). AST versus ALT in serum and mucus showed a significant positive correlation (p < 0.01). A significant positive correlation was found between cortisol and CK in mucus (p < 0.01). Moreover, LD versus LDH in serum showed a significant but weak positive correlation (p < 0.01). Principal component analysis revealed a complete separation between the serum and mucous groups, with the biomarkers that contributed the most being ALP, TP, ALT, and AST. This study provides baseline data and reference intervals for serum and mucous biochemical parameters in presumably healthy Chinese sturgeons. The current study has important implications for the development of conservation strategies and the conservation status of critically endangered species.

Effects of Tannic Acid Supplementation of a High-Carbohydrate Diet on the Growth, Serum Biochemical Parameters, Antioxidant Capacity, Digestive Enzyme Activity, and Liver and Intestinal Health of Largemouth Bass, Micropterus salmoides.

We investigated the effects of dietary tannic acid (TA) supplementation of a high-carbohydrate diet on growth, feed utilization, whole-body proximate composition, serum biochemical indicators, antioxidant capacity, digestive enzyme activity, and liver and intestinal health of juvenile largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides (initial mean weight: 8.08 ± 0.08 g). Five diets were prepared, including a positive control (dietary carbohydrate level, 16%, LC0), a negative control (dietary carbohydrate level, 21%, HC0), and three TA-supplementation diets based on the negative control diet with TA addition at 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg, respectively. After 8 weeks of feeding, the results showed that compared with the LC0 diet, 400-800 mg/kg dietary TA significantly improved the survival rate of largemouth bass (P < 0.05) while significantly reducing its weight-gain rate and specific growth rate (P < 0.05). Compared with the HC0 diet, 400 mg/kg dietary TA significantly increased serum catalase activity (P < 0.05), and significantly decreased serum malondialdehyde, liver glycogen, lightness (L ∗), and yellowness (b ∗) (P < 0.05). Moreover, compared with the HC0 diet, 200-400 mg/kg dietary TA effectively improved the vacuolation of hepatocytes caused by the high-carbohydrate diet and reduced the occurrence of intestinal epithelial cell vacuolation and necrosis. In turn, 800 mg/kg dietary TA significantly inhibited protease activity in the pyloric caecum and intestine (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with TA inhibited protease activity, which resulted in decreased growth performance in largemouth bass. However, it was also found that 200-400 mg/kg TA enhanced the antioxidant capacity of largemouth bass in the case of the high-carbohydrate diet, reduced liver glycogen levels, and improved liver and intestinal health. Finally, it should be noted that, when the dietary TA level exceeded 800 mg/kg, TA appeared to play a pro-oxidation role in the liver, which may cause oxidative stress in the liver.

Elevated liver enzymes and fasting glucose levels correlate with neuropathy in patients diagnosed with alcohol use disorder independently of the blood thiamine levels.

Chronic alcohol consumption is well known to cause peripheral neuropathy, affecting both small and large nerve fibers. The aim of this study was to correlate biochemical and neurophysiological findings and investigate possible biomarkers and risk factors for pathogenetic mechanisms of neuropathy in patients diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Ninety patients diagnosed with AUD were enrolled in this prospective study over a period of 3 years. Serum biochemical parameters, as well as thiamine blood levels, were determined upon admission. Every subject was assessed by clinical neurological examination, followed by Nerve Conduction Studies, Quantitative Sensory Testing, and Sympathetic Skin Response. Fifty age and gender-matched patients without a diagnosis of AUD were used as the control group. Peripheral neuropathy was diagnosed in 54 patients (60%). Among them, pure large fiber neuropathy was found in 18 patients, pure small fiber neuropathy in 12 patients, and both large and small fiber neuropathy was diagnosed in 24 patients. Elevated liver enzymes and fasting glucose levels upon admission were significantly correlated with neuropathy. Lower blood thiamine levels (than reference) were found in seven patients and were not correlated with neuropathy. Our study suggests that alcohol-related liver dysfunction and hyperglycemia may contribute as risk factors of peripheral neuropathy in patients diagnosed with AUD, while blood thiamine levels do not correlate with neuropathy. Moreover, we suggest that liver enzymes and the De Ritis ratio could be potentially used as biomarkers for the incidence and severity of alcohol-related neuropathy.

Phycocyanin alleviates alcohol-induced testicular injury in male Wistar rats.

Given the noteworthy implications of alcohol consumption and its association with male infertility, there has been a notable focus on investigating natural alternatives to mitigate its adverse effects. Thus, this study was conducted to assess the potential protective effect of phycocyanin extract derived from the blue algae Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis against ethanol-induced oxidative stress, disturbances in testicular morphology, and alterations in sperm production. Male rats were divided into four groups (five rats each): the control group received a saline solution, the ethanol exposed group (EtOH) was subjected to intraperitoneal injections of 10 mL/kg of ethanol solution at a concentration of 38% (v/v), the phycocyanin alone treated group (P) received oral administration of phycocyanin at a dosage of 50 mg/kg, and the phycocyanin-cotreated group (PE) was given oral phycocyanin followed by ethanol injections. All treatments were administered over a period of 14 days. Our findings demonstrated that ethanol exposure induced reproductive toxicity, characterized by reduced sperm production and viability, alterations in testicular weight and morphology, increased lipid peroxidation levels, and elevated oxidative enzyme activity. In addition, the ethanol-intoxicated group showed perturbations in serum biochemical parameters. However, the simultaneous exposure to ethanol and phycocyanin exhibited a counteractive effect against ethanol toxicity. The results showed that supplementation of phycocyanin prevented oxidative and testicular morphological damage-induced by ethanol and maintained normal sperm production, and viability.

Analgesic, anti inflammatory and toxicological effects of Vigornatural herbal powder in experimental animals

Purpose: To determine the analgesic, anti-inflammatory and toxicological effects of Vigornatural herbal powder, derived from the leaves of Nicotiana tabacum L. (Solanaceae) and the seeds of Buchholzia coriacea Eng. (Capparaceae).&#x0D; Methods: Analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the herbal powder were assessed using acetic acid-induced writhing and egg-albumin-induced edema models, respectively. Drugs were administered orally to animal groups (n = 4) at a dose of 400 mg/kg using paracetamol and Tween-80 as positive and negative controls, respectively in writhing test, while in egg albumin model, drugs were administered at a dose range of 100 - 400 mg/kg using diclofenac sodium and Tween 80 as controls respectively. Acute toxicity was evaluated using modified Lorke’s protocol. Sub-acute toxicity was investigated in Wistar rats after 14 days of oral administration of 400 mg/kg per day via its effect on hematological and serum biochemical parameters. Qualitative phytochemical analysis was carried out using standard protocols.&#x0D; Results: The herbal powder gave a median lethal dose (LD50) &gt; 5000 mg/kg and significantly provoked 38 % inhibition of acetic acid-induced writhing in mice at 400 mg/kg dose, relative to negative control (p &lt; 0.05). It also significantly inhibited both phases of egg-albumin-induced edema with 9.5 and 16.5 % inhibition at 1st and 4th hours, respectively when compared to standard diclofenac which gave 4.2 and 17.3 %, respectively (p &lt; 0.05). There was no significant difference between the treated and control groups with regard to all hematological and biochemical parameters tested after 14 days. Qualitative phytochemical tests showed the presence of alkaloids.&#x0D; Conclusion: Vigornatural herbal powder possesses fairly good analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and does not have any significant adverse effect on hematological, hepatic and renal functions. Further studies to develop it as a potential novel analgesic and anti-inflammatory pharmacotherapeutic agent is recommended.

The Ratio of Plasma Amyloid-β 1-42 over Serum Albumin Can Be a Novel Biomarker Signature for Diagnosing End-Stage Renal Disease-Associated Cognitive Impairment.

Cognitive impairment (CI) is one of the major complications in chronic kidney disease patients, especially those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Limited biomarkers have been found that can significantly predict ESRD-associated cognitive decline. This cohort study aimed to investigate de novo biomarkers for diagnosis of the ESRD-associated CI. In this cohort study, qualified samples were divided into control (with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of≥60 mL/min and a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score of > 27), ESRD without CI (eGFR < 15 and MMSE > 27), and ESRD with CI (eGFR < 15 and MMSE < 27) groups. Levels of plasma amyloid-β (Aβ)1-42, serum indoxyl sulfate, and hematologic and biochemical parameters were measured. Compared to the control group, levels of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and indoxyl sulfate were elevated in ESRD patients both without and with CI. Interestingly, ESRD patients with CI had the lowest levels of serum albumin. In contrast, levels of plasma Aβ1-42 were significantly higher in the ESRD with CI group than in the control and ESRD without CI groups. In addition, the ratio of plasma Aβ1-42 over serum albumin was significantly higher in the ESRD with CI group than in the control or ESRD without CI groups. Importantly, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) for CI in the total population by the ratio of Aβ1-42 over albumin was 0.785 and significant (p < 0.05). This cohort study has shown that the ratio of plasma Aβ1-42 over serum albumin can be a de novo biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of ESRD-associated cognitive decline.

Retrospective cohort study to evaluate the continuous use of anticholesterolemics and diuretics in patients with COVID-19.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the interference of the continuous use of drug classes in the expression of biomarkers during the first week of hospitalization and in the prognosis of patients with COVID-19. The patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and confirmed with SARS-CoV-2 by RT-qPCR assay underwent the collection of fasting whole blood samples for further analysis. Other data also extracted for this study included age, sex, clinical symptoms, related comorbidities, smoking status, and classes of continuous use. Routine serum biochemical parameters, including alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, C-reactive protein, N-terminal fragment of B-type natriuretic peptide, and cardiac troponin, were measured. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 176 patients with COVID-19 hospitalizations were included. Among them, 155 patients were discharged (88.5%), and 21 patients died (12%). Among the drug classes evaluated, we verified that the continuous use of diuretic 4.800 (1.853-11.67) (p = 0.0007) and antihypercholesterolemic 3.188 (1.215-7.997) (p = 0.0171) drug classes presented a significant relative risk of death as an outcome when compared to the group of patients who were discharged. We evaluated biomarkers in patients who used continuous antihypercholesterolemic and diuretic drug classes in the first week of hospitalization. We observed significant positive correlations between the levels of CRP with cardiac troponin (r = 0.714), IL-6 (r = 0.600), and IL-10 (r = 0.900) in patients who used continuous anticholesterolemic and diuretic drug classes and were deceased. In these patients, we also evaluated the possible correlations between the biomarkers AST, NT-ProBNP, cardiac troponin, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10. We observed a significantly negative correlations in AST levels with NT-ProBNP (r = -0.500), cardiac troponin (r = -1.00), IL-6 (r = -1.00), and IL-10 (r = -1.00) and a positive correlation with IL-8 (r = 0.500). We also observed significant negative correlation in the levels of NT-ProBNP with IL-10 (r = -0.800) and a positive correlation with cardiac troponin (r = 0.800). IL-6 levels exhibited positive correlations with cardiac troponin (r = 0.800) and IL-10 (r = 0.700). In this study, we observed that hospitalized COVID-19 patients who continued using anticholesterolemic and diuretic medications showed a higher number of correlations between biomarkers, indicating a poorer clinical prognosis. These correlations suggest an imbalanced immune response to injuries caused by SARS-CoV-2.

Evaluation of changes in serum biochemical parameters in zarudny’s spur-thighed tortoises (Testudo graeca zarudnyi) influenced by gender and season

BackgroundThe Zarudny’s spur-thighed tortoise or Iranian tortoise (Testudo graeca zarudnyi) has just been reported from Iran so far. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of season and gender on serum biochemical parameters of this valuable species in Iran.ResultsThis study was performed on 20 clinically healthy adult Zarudny’s spur-thighed tortoises. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein and then serum biochemical parameters and body weight were measured in autumn and winter. The following biochemical parameters were measured: total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein, total protein, creatinine, urea, glucose, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, total bilirubin, uric acid, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase. Urea concentration increased significantly at emergence from hibernation. Also, in winter, total protein, phosphorous, creatinine, total bilirubin concentrations and alkaline phosphatase activity decreased significantly compared to autumn, but aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase activities were significantly higher than in autumn. There was no significant difference for the parameters mentioned above by gender, except for phosphorous. Phosphorous concentration in females was significantly higher than that of males in autumn. Cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in females were significantly higher than males in autumn and winter.ConclusionsThe present study is the first study that monitors the serum biochemical parameters of adult Zarudny’s spur-thighed tortoises based on season and gender. Seasonal reference intervals should be used for biochemical parameters in this valuable species. Also, sex-specific reference intervals for phosphate and cholesterol are necessary.

Effects of fecal microbial transplantation on police performance and transportation stress in Kunming police dogs.

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been shown to improve gut dysbiosis in dogs; however, it has not completely been understood in police dogs. This study aimed to investigate the effects of FMT on performance and gut microflora in Kunming police dogs. Twenty Wolf Cyan dogs were randomly assigned to receive physiological saline or fecal suspension at low, medium, or high doses through oral gavage for 14days. Growth performance, police performance, serum biochemical profiling, and gut microflora were determined 2-week post-FMT. Dogs after FMT treatment were also subjected to an hour road transportation and then were evaluated for serum stress indicators. Overall, FMT enhanced the growth performance and alleviated diarrhea rate in Kunming dogs with the greatest effects occurring in the low dose FMT (KML) group. The improvement of FMT on police performance was also determined. These above alterations were accompanied by changed serum biochemical parameters as indicated by elevated total protein and albumin and reduced total cholesterol and glycerol. Furthermore, the serum stress indicators after road transportation in dog post-FMT significantly decreased. Increased bacterial diversity and modified bacterial composition were found in the feces of dogs receiving FMT. The fecal samples from FMT dogs were characterized by higher abundances of the genera Lactobacillus, Prevotella, and Fusobacterium and lower concentrations of Cetobacterium, Allobaculum, Bifidobacterium, and Streptococcus. The present study supports a potential benefit of FMT on police performance in Kunming dogs. KEY POINTS: • FMT improves the growth performance and reduces diarrhea rates in Kunming police dogs. • FMT alleviates the serum stress profiles after road transportation in Kunming police dogs. • FMT modifies the gut microbiota composition of Kunming police dogs.

Risk assessment of pesticide compounds: IPT and TCZ cause hepatotoxicity, activate stress pathway and affect the composition of intestinal flora in red swamp crayfish (Procambarusclarkii)

Isoprothiolane (IPT) and tricyclazole (TCZ) are widely used in rice farming and recently in combined rice-fish farming. However, co-cultured animals are affected by these pesticides. To investigate the organismal effects and toxicity of pesticides, crayfish were exposed to 0, 1, 10, or 100 ppt TCZ or IPT for 7 days. Pesticide bioaccumulation, survival rate, metabolic parameters, structure of intestinal flora, and antioxidant-, apoptosis-, and HSP-related gene expression were determined. Pesticide exposure caused bioaccumulation of IPT or TCZ in the hepatopancreas and muscles of crayfish; however, IPT bioaccumulation was higher than that of TCZ. Both groups showed significant changes in hepatopancreatic serum biochemical parameters. Mitochondrial damage and chromosomal agglutination were observed in hepatopancreatic cells exposed to 100 ppt IPT or TCZ. IPT induced more significant changes in serum biochemical parameters than TCZ. The results of intestinal flora showed that Vibro, Flavobacterium, Anaerorhabdus and Shewanella may have potential for use as a bacterial marker of TCZ and IPT. Antioxidant-, apoptosis-, and HSP-related gene expression was disrupted by pesticide exposure, and was more seriously affected by IPT. The results suggest that IPT or TCZ induce hepatopancreatic cell toxicity; however, IPT or TCZ content in dietary crayfish exposed to 1 ppt was below the food safety residue standard. The data indicated that IPT exposure may be more toxic than TCZ exposure in hepatopancreas and intestines and toxicity of organism are alleviated by activating the pathway of stress-response, providing an understanding of pesticide compounds in rice-fish farming and food safety.

Identification of key modules in metabolic syndrome induced by second-generation antipsychotics based on co-expression network analysis

BackgroundSecond-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) frequently cause metabolic syndrome (MetS), which raises the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, morbid obesity, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. MetS also impairs cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia. However, the fundamental reasons of MetS caused by SGAs are not yet fully understood. Thus, we aimed to identify potential therapeutic targets for MetS induced by SGAs. MethodsThe serum biochemical parameters and the RNA-sequencing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells were measured in three groups (healthy controls and patients with schizophrenia with and without MetS taking SGAs). The study of the weighted gene co-expression network was utilized to pinpoint modules that were significantly connected to clinical markers. ResultsStatistical analysis showed significant differences in triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein among the three groups. The TNF signaling pathway, TGF-β signaling pathway, fatty acid metabolism, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, and Toll-like receptor signaling pathway were the pathways that were primarily enriched in the two unique co-expression network modules that were found. Finally, five specific genes (TNF, CXCL8, IL1B, TIMP1, and ESR1) associated with metabolism and immunity pathways were identified. ConclusionsThis study indicated that SGAs differentially induced MetS of patients with schizophrenia through metabolic and inflammation-related pathways. Therefore, the potential side effects of drugs on inflammatory processes need to be considered when using SGAs for the treatment of schizophrenia.

Protective effects of Tinospora cordifolia miers extract against hepatic and neurobehavioral deficits in thioacetamide-induced hepatic encephalopathy in rats via modulating hyperammonemia and glial cell activation

Ethnopharmacological relevanceTinospora cordifolia (TC) a potential medicinal herb, has been ethnobotanically used as an eco-friendly supplement to manage various diseases, including cerebral fever. Earlier studies have shown that TC exhibits diverse beneficial effects, including hepatoprotective and neuroprotective effects. However, the effects of TC remain unexplored in animal models of encephalopathy including hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Aim of the studyTo evaluate the effects of TC stem extract against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced behavioural and molecular alterations in HE rats. Methods and materialsThe extract was preliminarily screened through phytochemical and HR-LC/MS analysis. Animals were pre-treated with TC extract at doses 30 and 100 mg/kg, orally. Following 7 days of TC pre-treatment, HE was induced by administering TAA (300 mg/kg, i. p. thrice). Behavioural assessments were performed after 56 h of TAA first dose. The animals were then sacrificed to assess biochemical parameters in serum, liver and brain. Liver tissue was used for immunoblotting and histological studies to evaluate inflammatory and fibrotic signalling. Moreover, brain tissue was used to evaluate brain edema, activation of glial cells (GFAP, IBA-1) and NF-κB/NLRP3 downstream signalling via immunoblotting and immunohistochemical analysis in cortex and hippocampus. ResultsThe pre-treatment with TC extract effective mitigated TAA-induced behavioural alterations, lowered serum LFT (AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin) and oxidative stress markers in liver and brain. TC treatment significantly modulated hyperammonemia, cerebral edema and preserved the integrity of BBB proteins in HE animals. TC treatment attenuated TAA-induced histological changes, tissue inflammation (pNF-κB (p65), TNF-α, NLRP3) and fibrosis (collagen, α-SMA) in liver. In addition, immunoblotting analysis revealed TC pre-treatment inhibited fibrotic proteins such as vimentin, TGF-β1 and pSmad2/3 in the liver. Our study further showed that TC treatment downregulated the expression of MAPK/NF-κB inflammatory signalling, as well as GFAP and IBA-1 (glial cell markers) in cortex and hippocampus of TAA-intoxicated rats. Additionally, TC-treated animals exhibited reduced expression of caspase3/9 and BAX induced by TAA. ConclusionThis study revealed promising insights on the protective effects of TC against HE. The findings clearly demonstrated that the significant inhibition of MAPK/NF-κB signalling and glial cell activation could be responsible for the observed beneficial effects of TC in TAA-induced HE rats.

ОЦЕНКА КОРРЕЛЯЦИИ БИОХИМИЧЕСКИХ ПОКАЗАТЕЛЕЙ СЫВОРОТКИ КРОВИ КУР-НЕСУШЕК ПРИ РАЗНЫХ УРОВНЯХ ПЛОТНОСТИ ПОСАДКИ

With the cellular technology of keeping laying hens, their mobility is limited. This can lead to various negative consequences due to the development of a protective and adaptive reaction in the body of an agricultural bird. One of the approaches to the early diagnosis of stress reactions in poultry is the study of biochemical parameters of blood serum. Biochemical indicators can provide information about the general condition of the bird, changes in its body and stress levels. In particular, the study of biochemical parameters of blood serum of laying hens at different levels of planting density can help to identify the relationship between the conditions of poultry keeping and its stress response. Mathematical calculations of the estimation of the correlation dependence of biochemical parameters of blood serum of laying hens depending on different levels of planting density with cellular content are important in the interpretation of the data obtained. Fischer's F-criterion (F-distribution) was used for mathematical processing of the research results. The results obtained allow us to conclude that the indicators of cholesterol and total protein in laying hens do not depend on the planting density. Alkaline phosphatase, phosphorus, calcium, ACTH depend on the density of laying hens (the null hypothesis is refuted at 1% significance level). Blood glucose and cortisol levels are also dependent on planting density. Here, the null hypothesis is refuted at the 5% significance level. The results of the study of the levels of alkaline phosphatase, glucose, phosphorus, calcium, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol at different levels of planting density indicate the development of a stress reaction in laying hens and are important diagnostic markers when exposed to technological stresses.

Impact of Endurance Exercise Training on Biomarkers of Aortic Endothelial Damage in Diabetic Rats

Given the heightened risk of diabetes‐related cardiovascular events associated with inactivity, this study investigates the molecular mechanisms of vascular damage in streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic rats. The aim is to elucidate the impact of different exercises (interval and continuous training) and metformin on biochemical parameters, aortic injury, oxidative stress, and inflammation to provide insights into potential therapeutic interventions for diabetes‐associated vascular complications. Male Wistar rats were administered a single dose of STZ (60 mg/kg) to induce diabetes. Diabetic rats underwent either interval training or continuous training (40 min/day, 5 days/week, 6 weeks), received metformin (300 mg/kg), or a combination of metformin and exercise. After 6 weeks, biochemical parameters in serum and oxidative stress markers and mRNA expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), lectin‐like oxidized low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐1 (LOX‐1), and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) in aorta tissue were assessed. Serum levels of fasting blood sugar (FBS), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL), TG/HDL, TC/HDL, and LDL/HDL ratios were significantly reduced in all treatment groups compared to the diabetes group. Both types of exercises, metformin, and exercise+metformin combinations, significantly reduced oxidative stress by decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) and enhancing the antioxidant status in the aortic tissue compared to the diabetic group. In addition, in exercise groups, metformin, and combination groups, the expression of eNOS was significantly elevated, while LOX‐1 and ICAM‐1 expression significantly decreased compared to the diabetic group. In most cases, the combination of exercise and metformin (especially interval training) was more effective than exercise alone. It seems that exercise along with taking metformin can be considered as a therapeutic method by improving hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia and reducing oxidative stress and vascular inflammatory responses, leading to ameliorating biomarkers function related to endothelial damage in experimental diabetes conditions.

Comparison of different organic selenium supplementations on selenium status and serum biomarkers in dairy cows.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of two different organic selenium (Se) supplements, selenomethionine (Se-Met) and selenohomolanthionine (Se-Hlan), on the serum biochemical parameters and Se status of dairy cows. Different dietary Se supplementation treatments were set as follows: a control group (CON, adding sodium selenite at 0.3mg Se/kg dry matter [DM]), 0.3 and 0.5 Se-Met (adding Se-Met at 0.3 and 0.5mg Se/kg DM, respectively), as well as 0.3 and 0.5 Se-Hlan (adding Se-Hlan at 0.3 and 0.5mg Se/kg DM, respectively). The experiment lasted 8weeks. The serum measurements showed that both organic Se treatments resulted in higher uric acid than CON. Se-Met produced higher aspartate aminotransferase, glucose, urea, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and lactate dehydrogenase than Se-Hlan. Regarding the Se status, the highest milk Se values appeared in 0.5 Se-Met, with intermediate values in 0.3 Se-Met and 0.5 Se-Hlan, whereas the highest and lowest serum Se levels were presented in 0.5 Se-Met and 0.3 Se-Hlan, respectively. Our results suggest that Se-Hlan was not as efficient in boosting serum or milk Se as Se-Met and differences in serum biomarkers between Se-Met and Se-Hlan may be associated with distinct metabolic pathways for different forms of organic Se.

Dietary inclusion of fermented soybean meal, probiotics and organic acids on serum biochemical parameters and cost economics in broiler chicken

Dietary inclusion of fermented soybean meal, probiotics and organic acids on serum biochemical parameters and cost economics in broiler chicken

Prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites and differences of pathological markers in infected pigeons in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria

Aim: This study investigated the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths and differences in pathological markers in infected domestic pigeons in Makurdi Metropolis. Methods: In a cross - sectional study, 310 pigeons were sampled between January to November, 2020. Prevalence of infection, hematology, serum biochemical parameters and pathological changes were investigated. Results: 275 (88.7%) pigeons were naturally infected with thirteen (13) species of helminths comprising of Cestodes namely; Raillietina echinobothrida 43.5% (135/310), R. tetragona 27.1% (84/310), R. cesticillus 6.4% (20/310), Amoebotaenia cuneata 3.9% (12/310), Choataenia infundibulum 2.6% (8/310), Hymenolepis cantaniana 5.8% (18/310) and Cotugnia proglottina 4.5% (14/310) and Nematodes namely; Ascaridia columbae 12.6% (39/310), Heterakis gallinarum 4.8% (15/310), Capillaria columbae 0.6% (2/310), Subulura brumpti 1% (3/310), Hartertia gallinarum 0.6% (2/310) and Amidostomum anseris 0.3% (1/310). The overall mean (± SD) total leucocyte counts, heterophil, monocyte and eosinophil counts were significantly (P &lt; 0.05) higher in the helminths infected groups than non- infected pigeons. The overall mean (± SD) packed cell volume, total red blood cell counts, hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, lymphocyte counts and serum albumin showed no significant (P &gt; 0.05) differences between non-infected, helminth-infected pigeons. Grossly, live helminths and parasitic nodules were observed in small intestine. Microscopically, there was necrosis of the intestinal epithelium and cypts, villi atrophy and leucocytes infiltration in sections from helminth-infected pigeons. Conclusion: Thus, gastrointestinal helminths are prevalent in pigeons and are capable of causing differences of Pathological markers in infected birds.

Dandelion Root Extract in Trout Feed and its Effects on the Physiological Performance of Oncorhynchus mykiss and Resistance to Lactococcus garvieae Infection

Abstract In this study, we investigated the dietary effects of dandelion root extract (DRE) on growth performance, body composition, serum biochemical parameters, intestinal and liver histology, and fish resistance against Lactococcus garvieae infection in the rainbow trout. In total, 540 rainbow trout fry (22.05±1.740 g and 13.03±0.470 cm) were used. Six experimental groups (control, 2.5 mL/kg (DRE-1), 5 mL/kg (DRE-2), 10 mL/kg (DRE-3), 20 mL/kg (DRE-4), and 40 mL/kg (DRE-5) dandelion root extract) with three replicates were formed. In each tank, 30 fish were placed and fed for 90 days, and the volume of water was adjusted to 80 L with a flow-through system. The results showed that the final fish weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, protein efficiency ratio, and protein deposition rate were significantly higher in the DRE-4 group, while the feed conversion ratio and fat deposition ratio were significantly lower compared to that in the control group (P&lt;0.05). The viscerosomatic index and the hepatosomatic index decreased in the experimental groups depending on the concentration of the extract used, while the condition factor was higher than that in the control (P&lt;0.05). The DRE significantly decreased glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase levels in blood serum in the fish from the experimental groups, but it significantly increased high-density lipoprotein, alkaline phosphatase, and total protein levels (P&lt;0.05). Similarly, the DRE positively affected intestinal histology by increasing the stratum compactum, submucosa, lamina propria, villi length, villi width, absorption area, tunica muscularis thickness, mucosal folds, and goblet cell count. In the liver, depending on the high-fat diet (crude lipid = 20%), vacuolization areas, hepatocellular degeneration areas, apoptotic hepatocyte nucleus, and necrotic areas recorded in the control group decreased or even disappeared completely in the extract groups. The results of the challenge test showed that adding 2.5 mL/kg of the DRE to the feed positively affected the disease resistance against Lactococcus garvieae infection. The results of the quadratic polynomial regression showed that an average level of 23.91±1.048 mL/kg of DRE would be suitable for optimum fish growth.