Blood Plasma Biochemistry Research Articles

The use of fishery and aquaculture by-products with Nannochloropsis sp. allows total dietary replacement of wild-caught fishmeal, fish oil and soy protein in European sea bass juveniles

Five experimental diets (CTRL, 50FMFO, 50FMFO-50MIC, 0FMFO-50MIC, 0FMFO-100MIC) were formulated to replace wild-caught fishmeal (FM), wild-caught fish oil (FO) and soy protein using fisheries, aquaculture by-products (BP) and microalgae (MIC). Fifty European sea bass juveniles were distributed in 15 tanks (initial body weight 46.66 ± 0.04 g) and reared in a recirculating aquaculture system for 88 days. Temperature, salinity, oxygen and photoperiod were kept constant throughout the experiment (22 ± 0.5 °C, 25 g L−1 and 8.0 ± 1.0 mg L−1, 12:12 light/dark, respectively). Growth, feed intake (FI), proximal composition, nutritional index, apparent digestibility, somatometric indexes, blood plasma biochemistry and digestive enzyme activity were evaluated. Also, gut microbiota composition was assessed through next-generation sequencing. Results showed that growth performance and feed digestibility were not affected by FM, FO and soy replacement using BP and MIC. Dietary replacement of 100% FM and FO with circular substitutes and 50% replacement of soymeal with microalgae increased the activity of alkaline phosphatase and chymotrypsin. Moreover, the inclusion of BP and MIC had positive effects on the gut microbiota richness and abundance. In conclusion, the utilization of BP and MIC represents a valuable alternative to FM and FO as well as soy protein in feed for European sea bass juveniles.

Physiological Response of Grower African Catfish to Dietary Black Soldier Fly and Mealworm Meal

A six-week experiment was carried out to test the effects of total (100%) and partial (50%) replacement of fish meal in the diet of African catfish growers with black soldier fly (B) meal, yellow mealworm (M) meal, and a 1:1 combination of both (BM) on the production and health of fish. A total of 420 fish with an average initial body weight of 200 ± 0.5 g were randomly distributed in triplicate to seven diet groups (C, B50, B100, M50, M100, BM50, and BM100, respectively). The growth performance and feed utilization of fish fed with partial or total replacement levels of FM with B were not significantly affected (p > 0.05) during the 6 weeks of feeding. In contrast, significant differences were observed between the groups fed with a diet where FM was totally replaced with M meal and the control in terms of final body weight, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, and protein productive value. Among the blood plasma biochemistry parameters, total cholesterol exhibited a significant difference (p = 0.007) between the M treatments and the control diet. The fatty acid profile of the liver was changed with respect to the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid content in all experimental groups. Parallel with this, the upregulation of elovl5 and fas genes in liver was found in all experimental groups compared to the control. Overall, this study shows that fish meal cannot be substituted with yellow mealworm meal in the practical diet of African catfish without compromising the growth, health and feed utilization parameters.

Behavioral, physiological, and blood biochemistry of Friesian Holstein dairy cattle at different altitudes in West Java, Indonesia

Abstract. Tanuwiria UH, Susilawati I, Tasrifin DS, Salman LB, Mushawwir A. 2021. Behavioral, physiological, and blood biochemistry of Friesian Holstein dairy cattle at different altitudes in West Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 533-539. For dairy cows, the study of physiological aspects and those related to it is very important based on altitude. The data of this study are the main considerations to determine the ability of homeostasis, prediction of production and appropriate feed management. This study aims to examine the behavior, physiological abilities, and blood plasma biochemistry of sixty dairy cows. It was conducted using three locations in West Java Province based on topography, namely: (i) location with topography 350-500 meters above sea level (masl): Sukabumi Regency; (ii) location with topography 550-750 masl: Sumedang Regency; and (iii) locations with topography > 800 masl: Bandung Regency. Furthermore, 5 mL of blood samples were taken accurately, using a syringe and a 5 mL tube containing EDTA, respectively. Blood sampling was taken carefully from the jugular vein of dairy cows at the beginning of every month for six sampling periods. After each collection, the whole blood was separated from the plasma directly using a centrifuge, with a speed of 4500 ppm for 7 minutes. The plasma obtained was used to measure the value of blood biochemistry related. The plasma analysis was conducted using a Kenza 240TX model spectrophotometer. The procedure for analyzing blood samples followed the instructions listed in the randox and biolabo kits. Furthermore, behavioral and thermoregulation measurements were performed every week during this research. The results showed an increase in dairy cows' time spent lying and drinking at low altitudes compared to dairy cows at high altitudes. In contrast, rumination and feeding activities were decreased, as shown in the blood's physiological response and biochemical profile. Dairy cows appear to be more challenging to adjust physiologically at lower altitudes.

Myrmecodia pendens Bulb Extract in the Lele Dumbo (Clarias gariepinus) Feed: Effects on the Growth Performance, Survival, and Blood Indices

This feeding experiment was performed to determine the effects of Myrmecodia pendens bulb extract (MBE) supplementation in fish feed on the growth, survival, and hemato-biochemical profile of Clarias gariepinus. A group of fish was fed with 0.25; 0.50; 1.0; 2.0% MBE and compared to control group (without MBE) for 75 days observation. At the end of feeding trial, growth parameters, hematological profile such as red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), Hemoglobin (Hb), Hematocrit (Htc), differential leukocyte, blood plasma biochemistry (glucose, total albumin, cholesterol, and triglyceride), the hepatosomatic (HSI) and intestinal somatic index (ISI) were measured. Survival of all fish was also counted every two weeks. Supplementation MBE above 0.25% resulted significantly higher final biomass weight (FBW), body weight gain (BWG), daily weight gain (DWG), and average weekly gain (AWG). Meanwhile, fish group fed dietary MBE above 1.0% had significantly higher specific growth rate (SGR) (3.32±0.15) than other groups. Fish fed 1.0% of MBE also showed better value of feed conversion ratio (FCR) (1.13±0.03), Hb, and HSI compared to others group. Survival, neutrophil, monocyte, and ISI of all groups was not affected by any concentration of MBE supplementation. Dietary MBE above 0.5% enhanced RBC, WBC, Hematocrit, platelet (PLT), lymphocyte, blood plasma biochemistry such as glucose, total albumin, and triglyceride. Cholesterol of fish fed MBE in the diet showed incrementally enhanced. Present finding suggested that 1.0% MBE in the diet of Clarias gariepinus is recommended to enhance growth, survival, and blood profiles

Loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta plasma biochemistry and proteome profile modulation during recovery

The aim of the study was to monitor and analyse injured and diseased loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) plasma proteome profiles and biochemistry parameters during their recovery period in rescue centre within different age and recovery period groups, and determine the potential biomarkers that can be used in diagnostics. The plasma biochemical parameters of total protein and glucose content, accompanied by aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and N-acetyl-cystein-activated creatinine kinase (CK-NAC) are highlighted as valuable and potential biomarkers of turtle's health status and condition. Using high throughput tandem mass tag (TMT)-based proteomic approach we identified 913 plasma proteins, 12 of which shown to be modulated in loggerheads age groups, and identified as a part of (i) platelet degranulation, (ii) neutrophil degranulation, and (iii) innate immune system pathways. The neurofascin (NFASC) is shown to be differentially abundant among all the age groups, and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein 2-like (ORM2) and alpha-1-antitrypsin-like (SERPINA1) proteins were recognized as members of all three above mentioned REACTOME pathways. Furthermore, 29 of plasma proteins were significantly differentially abundant in loggerheads age and recovery period groups. Out of 15 recognized pathways, those proteins were mostly included in three specific REACTOME pathways: (i) post-translational phosphorylation, (ii) regulation of Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF) transport and uptake by Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Proteins (IGFBPs), and (iii) platelet degranulation. The alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) was the only protein which showed statistically significant up-regulation patterns in all loggerhead age groups before release from the rescue centre, and the complement component 3 (C3) protein was the only protein modulated in all recovery period groups. Furthermore, C3 protein takes part in 9; and followed up with apolipoprotein A-I (APOA1) in 7; complement component 4 (C4), complement component 5 (C5) and kininogen-1 (KNG1) in 6 REACTOME pathways. Thereby, those proteins are highlighted and recommended as potential biomarkers of turtle's health status. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD029569. Finally, based on our results, we believe that comprehensive omics approach and routine plasma biochemical analysis, accompanied by proteins of acute phase, acid-base status and immune-response indicator analysis may significantly and reliably improve assessment of captive loggerheads rehabilitation and medication. SignificanceMonitoring and comparison of loggerhead sea turtles (C. caretta) blood plasma biochemistry parameters and plasma proteome profiles in relation to the age, and recovery period pointed out significantly differentially abundant proteins, along with certain biochemical parameter contents as potential biomarkers of turtle's fitness, health status and physiology.

Gonad development and blood plasma profile of female bada fish (Rasbora sp.) by giving a combination of the hormones estradiol and spirulina in the feed

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the combination of estradiol-17β hormone and spirulina in feed on blood plasma biochemistry, histology, and gonad development of female bada fish (Rasbora argyrotaenia). The research method were an experimental study using a completely randomized design with four treatment combinations and four replications, namely without the addition of the estradiol-17β hormone and spirulina (P0), the addition of the estradiol-17β hormone at 7 g kg-1 feed (P1), the addition of spirulina at 30 g kg-1 feed (P2) and the addition of the estradiol-17β hormone at 7 g kg-1 feed and spirulina at 30 g kg-1 feed. Female bada fish (4.22±1.28 g) were kept in an aquarium measuring 100x50x50 cm3 with a density of seven individuals per aquarium. Fish were fed the treatment twice daily, with 3% of the biomass for six weeks. The test parameters were estradiol-17β hormone concentration, egg diameter, blood plasma glucose concentration, blood plasma total cholesterol concentration, and gonadal histology observations. The experimental results showed that the concentration of the estradiol-17β hormone in the body plasma of treatments P1 and P3 was statistically significantly different (P<0.05) compared to treatments P0 and P2. The combination of estradiol-17β hormone and spirulina added to the feed gave not significantly different results (P>0.05) on blood plasma biochemistry and egg diameter of bada fish broodstock. A combination of estradiol-17β hormone and spirulina hormones in the feed resulted in better P1 and P3 treatments with higher plasma concentrations of the estradiol-17β hormone. Observations of gonadal development from histology showed that the bada fish gonads belonged to the asynchronous type.

Correlations between environmental salinity levels, blood biochemistry parameters, and steroid hormones in wild juvenile American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis)

American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) inhabit freshwater wetlands that are vulnerable to salinization caused by anthropogenic alterations to freshwater flow, in addition to storm surges, sea level rise, and droughts. Salinization of coastal freshwater habitats is a growing concern in a changing climate due to increased frequency and intensity of storm surges and drought conditions. This study opportunistically sampled juvenile male and female wild alligators in various salinities each month excluding November, December, and January for one year at Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge in coastal Louisiana. Blood plasma biochemistry parameters including electrolyte levels were subsequently measured. In addition, levels of various renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system hormones, glucocorticoids, androgens, estrogens, and progestogens were analyzed using liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. Only males were sampled in hyperosmotic environments (> 10‰) during dry conditions in late summer 2018. In juvenile males, plasma Na+, Cl−, and the progestogen 17α,20β-dihydroxypregnenone were significantly and positively correlated with environmental salinity. However, variation in glucocorticoids, androgens, and estrogens were not associated with hypersaline water while sex steroids showed significant seasonal variation. This study demonstrated significant correlation of environmental salinity with electrolyte levels and a sex steroid in wild juvenile alligators, and to our knowledge represents the first measurement of 17α,20β-dihydroxypregnenone in alligators.

Blood plasma biochemistry and the effects of age, sex, and captivity in Short-toed Snake Eagles (Circaetus gallicus)

Blood plasma biochemistry and the effects of age, sex, and captivity in Short-toed Snake Eagles (Circaetus gallicus)

The oil fraction and partially defatted meal of black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) affect differently growth performance, feed efficiency, nutrient deposition, blood glucose and lipid digestibility of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

The effects of partially defatted black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) and mechanically-extracted oil from that same insect (BSFLO) on growth, feed utilization, body composition, gut histology and blood plasma biochemistry of rainbow trout were evaluated over a three-month growth trial. Seven experimental diets containing 0 (Diet A), 6.6 (Diet B), 13.2 (Diet C) and 26.4% (Diet D) BSFLM, and 2.5 (Diet E), 5.0 (Diet F) and 10% (Diet G) BSFLO were randomly allocated to 21,140-l tanks at 30 trout (45.7 ± 1.4 g) per tank. To estimate the nutrient digestibility of these ingredients, Diet A was supplemented with 0.5% titanium dioxide and served as the Reference diet to create two test diets containing 80% of the Reference diet combined with 20% of defatted BSFLM (diet B-test) and 20% of BSFLO (C-test). Water temperature was maintained at 13.9 ± 0.3 °C in both trials. Growth performances, measured using the thermal-unit growth coefficient (TGC), were high with TGC values ≥ 0.260, regardless of BSFLM or BSFLO inclusion. Feed conversion ratios (FCR) were ≤ 0.91. However, TGC was significantly lower with Diet D (26.4% BSFLM) (P < .020) and FCR values increased significantly at each increment level of BSFLM (P < .05). There was a negative relationship between relative body protein content and dietary inclusion of BSFLM, but not BSFLO (P < .001). Hydroxyproline was the sole amino acid that increased in trout fed BSFLM or BSFLO. The inclusion of BSFLM and BSFLO had no impact on the histology of the posterior intestine, but villi in the anterior intestine of trout fed Diet D (26.4% BSFLM) was significantly shorter relative to the Control (1035 ± 146 μm vs. 1176 ± 160 μm). There was a negative relationship between blood glucose and BSFLO inclusion level, which suggested BSFLO had some antihyperglycemic effect in fasted rainbow trout. The ADCs of protein and amino acid in BSFLM varied between 87 and 93%, but the digestibility of lipid and dry matter in BSFLM was relatively low at 73 and 75%, respectively. The digestibility of hydroxyproline was significantly superior in diets containing BSFLM or BSFLO than in the Reference diet (P = .014). Based on these results, the maximum inclusion of BSFLM recommended in rainbow trout diets is 13%. The maximum inclusion of BSFLO could potentially be superior to 10%, but this hypothesis needs further study. The enhanced digestibility of hydroxyproline in diets containing BSFL products has potential benefits for fish fed low fishmeal diets.

When moult overlaps migration: moult-related changes in plasma biochemistry of migrating common snipe.

Moult of feathers entails considerable physiological and energetic costs to an avian organism. Even under favourable feeding conditions, endogenous body stores and energy reserves of moulting birds are usually severely depleted. Thus, most species of birds separate moult from other energy-demanding activities, such as migration or reproduction. Common snipe Gallinago gallinago is an exception, as during the first autumn migration many young snipe initiate the post-juvenile moult, which includes replacement of body feathers, lesser and median wing coverts, tertials, and rectrices. Here, we evaluated moult-related changes in blood plasma biochemistry of the common snipe during a period of serious trade-off in energy allocation between moult and migration. For this purpose, concentrations of basic metabolites in plasma were evaluated in more than 500 young snipe migrating through Central Europe. We found significant changes in the plasma concentrations of total protein, triglyceride and glucose over the course of moult, while the concentrations of uric acid and albumin did not change. Total protein concentration increased significantly in the initial stage of moult, probably as a result of increased production of keratin, but it decreased to the pre-moult level at the advanced stage of moult. Plasma triglyceride concentration decreased during the period of tertial and rectrice moult, which reflected depletion of endogenous fat reserves. By contrast, glucose concentration increased steadily during the course of moult, which could be caused by increased catabolism of triglycerides (via gluconeogenesis) or, alternatively, due to increased glucocorticoids as a stress response. Our results suggest that physiological changes associated with moult may be considered important determinants of the low pace of migration typical of the common snipe.

The effect of marine and non-marine phospholipid rich oils when fed to juvenile barramundi (Lates calcarifer)

An experiment was conducted to assess the response of juvenile barramundi (Lates calcarifer) to four diets containing either marine- or non-marine derived neutral lipid (NL) or polar lipid (PL) sources for eight weeks in a 2×2 factorial design. The four diets contained 8.2% added lipid composed of a 1% fish oil base with 7.2% test lipid (n−3 NL: Fish oil, n−3 PL: Krill oil, n−6 NL: Soybean oil, n−6 PL: Soybean lecithin). The results demonstrated that the different lipid sources (either n−3 or n−6 omega series from either NL or PL class) had significant effects on growth performance and feed utilisation with some interaction terms noted. Growth was negatively affected in the n−6 NL fish and the feed conversion (FCR) was highest in the n−6 PL fish. Digestibility of total lipid and some specific fatty acids (notably 18:2n−6 and 18:3n−3) were also negatively affected in the n−6 PL fish. Analysis of the whole body neutral lipid fatty acid composition showed that these mirrored those of the diets and significant interaction terms were noted. However, the whole body polar lipid fatty acids appeared to be more tightly regulated in comparison. The blood plasma biochemistry and hepatic transcription of several fatty acid metabolism genes in the n−6 PL fed and to a lesser extent in the n−6 NL fed fish demonstrated a pattern consistent with modified metabolic function. These results support that there are potential advantages in using phospholipid-rich oils however there are clear differences in terms of their origin. Statement of relevanceJuvenile barramundi may benefit from dietary phospholipid.

Factors affecting plasma biochemistry parameters and physical condition of Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) nestlings

We assessed the normal values for 15 blood plasma biochemistry parameters and three indices of body condition (IBCs) in free-living Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) nestlings in Brandenburg (Germany). Values were compared with those of other raptors, and possible sexual and age-related differences were examined. In addition, we looked for possible relationships of habitat quality (measured in terms of foraging conditions and human disturbances) to nestling nutritional condition and productivity. Female nestlings showed higher mean urea levels and lower glucose values than males, which could be related to higher growth rates and nutrient demand of females at the end of the nestling period. Seven parameters also showed variation with age, probably relating to increasing body mass, metabolic rates, and physical activity during the pre-fledging stage. Conversely, the IBCs showed poor correlations with selected nutritional parameters, probably due to the homogeneously acceptable nutritional conditions of the nestlings. Finally, we found that Ospreys did not seem to adjust initial parental investment in relation to habitat quality, since productivity was not affected by habitat indicators. However, in large broods, but not in small ones, nestling nutritional condition improved as foraging conditions improved. These results suggest that females that are in better physical condition seem to produce more and better nourished nestlings in better foraging conditions.

Mercury contamination in spotted seatrout, Cynoscion nebulosus: An assessment of liver, kidney, blood, and nervous system health

Marine fishes in South Florida (Florida Keys–Florida Bay–Everglades region) accumulate higher concentrations of mercury (Hg) in their tissues than similar fishes from other areas of the southeastern U.S., though it is not known whether these elevated levels affect fish health. In this study, we used quantifiable pathological and biochemical indicators to explore Hg-associated differences in marine fish from South Florida, where Hg contamination is high, and from Indian River Lagoon, Florida, which served as a reference area. Hg concentrations in all tissues of mature spotted seatrout ( Cynoscion nebulosus) from South Florida were significantly higher than those from Indian River Lagoon and were within the threshold range of those in studies where effects of Hg exposure have been observed. The distribution of Hg among tissues followed the same trend in both areas, with the greatest concentration in kidney tissue, followed by liver, muscle, brain, gonad, and red blood cells. Blood-plasma biochemistry showed that concentrations of iron, inorganic phosphate, lactate dehydrogenase, and aspartate aminotransferase were significantly less in South Florida. Also, fructosamine and alkaline phosphatase were significantly less in South Florida. Liver histology revealed that pyknosis/necrosis, interstitial inflammation, and bile duct hyperplasia were found only in seatrout from South Florida, and steatosis/glycogen was more frequently found in Indian River Lagoon specimens. In renal tissue, interstitial inflammation, glomerular dilatation and thickening, and tubular degeneration and necrosis were more frequently found in South Florida specimens. Changes in the liver cytoskeleton and morphology may explain some of the differences in blood parameters between study areas. Neurochemical analyses showed that brain N-methyl- d-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptors (but not those of muscarinic cholinergic receptors, monoamine oxidase, or acetylcholinesterase) were significantly less in fish from South Florida than from Indian River Lagoon. These findings provide compelling evidence that elevated Hg could cause quantifiable pathological and biochemical changes that might influence the health of spotted seatrout and could also affect other marine fish species.

Acute effect of diazinon on blood plasma biochemistry in the African catfish (Clarias gariepinus )

The acute effect of diazinon on the African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) was assessed by comparing the biochemical blood plasma profiles of a control group and a group exposed to the effect of the pesticide DiazintolR (162 mg/ml of diazinon as the active substance). The activities of selected enzymes, metabolite and electrolytes concentrations were measured on 16 specimens of controls, and in 20 specimens, of (C. gariepinus of mean weight 350 ± 15 g, and mean total length 35 ± 2.0 cm) exposed for 96 h to the effects of DiazintolR at a concentration of 6.6 ppm. The results showed a significant decrease of cholinesterase (p < 0.05) lactate dehydrogenase (p < 0.05) alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase in the experimental group. The values of alanine and aspartate, aminotransferases, creatine kinase, were comparable in the experimental and control groups. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) was observed in the total protein, albumin globulin and lactate concentration in the experimental group compared with the control group. Glucose concentration in the plasma of the experimental group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the control group. A significantly higher (p < 0.05) concentration of plasma sodium and potassium was observed in the experimental group and a significantly lower (p < 0.05) concentration of plasma calcium and phosphorus, compared with those in the control group. The results of the biochemical blood plasma profile indicate a marked neurotoxic effect of diazinon and shows that this changes could be used as biomarkers for aquatic pollution. Key words: Organophosphorous pesticide, acute toxicity, enzymes, total protein, glucose, lactate, electrolytes.

Relationships between organohalogen contaminants and blood plasma clinical–chemical parameters in chicks of three raptor species from Northern Norway

Organohalogen contaminants (OHCs) may affect various physiological parameters in birds including blood chemistry. We therefore examined blood plasma clinical–chemical parameters and OHCs in golden eagle, white-tailed eagle and goshawk chicks from Northern Norway. Correlation analyses on pooled data showed that alkaline phosphatase (ALKP), glucose and creatinine were significantly negatively correlated to various OHCs (all: p<0.05; r: −0.43 to −0.55; n=23), while alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), total protein, cholesterol, uric acid, total bilirubin, ratios protein:creatinine and uric acid:creatinine were significantly positively correlated to various OHCs (all: p<0.05; r: 0.43–0.96). Based on these relationships, we suggest that the OHC concentrations found in certain raptor chicks of Northern Scandinavia may impact blood plasma biochemistry in a way that indicates impacts on liver, kidney, bone, endocrinology and metabolism. In order to elaborate further on these relationships and mechanisms, we recommend that a larger study should take place in the near future.

Biochemical profile of blood serum of siraz Capoeta capoeta umbla

Seasonal changes in blood plasma biochemistry of siraz Capoeta capoeta umbla were determined throughout 1 year. In the present study, while the highest values for glucose and globulin were found in winter, the values for increased activities of total protein, albumin, calcium, sodium levels, albumin/globulin ratio, lactate dehydrogenase, and alkaline phosphatase were determined in summer. We determined that blood biochemistry values of siraz, which were positively affected by water temperature and pH, except glucose and globulin. Glucose and globulin were negatively affected by water temperature and pH. Consequently, it was concluded that the seasons are key factors when blood parameters are used as biomarkers for environmental alterations. It is difficult to define the most important factors affecting seasonal changes of blood biochemistry in fish.

Hematology and Blood Chemistry Reference Intervals for Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) Raised in Recirculation Systems

Determination of hematology and blood plasma biochemistry values is routinely used to assess the health of wild and domestic animals. Yellow perch (Perca flavescens) culture is a growing segment of the U.S. aquaculture industry and tools are needed to monitor the health status of these fish. This paper reports reference values for complete hematological and biochemistry profiles of normal, healthy yellow perch raised in recirculation culture conditions. The following hematologic values were determined: packed cell volume, plasma protein, erythrocyte, leukocyte, lymphocyte, neutrophil, monocyte, and thrombocyte numbers. A description of leukocyte morphology is presented. Additionally, the following plasma biochemical values were determined: total protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, glucose, and cholesterol. Reference values for a specific population of fish need to be determined prior to utilizing diagnostic blood samples from individuals. Developing diagnostic hematology for fishes can enhance yellow perch culture by providing a means for the early detection and identification of infectious disease and of sub-lethal conditions that may affect production performance.

Effect of Diazinon on Blood Plasma Biochemistry in Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)

Luskova V., M. Svoboda, J. Kolafiova: The Effect of Diazinon on Blood Plasma Biochemistry in Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.). Acta Vet. Brno 2002, 71: 117-123. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of diazinon [0,0-diethyl-0-(2-isopropyl-6methylpyrimidin-4yl) phosphorothioate] on common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.). The effect was assessed by comparing the biochemical blood plasma profiles of a control group and a group exposed to the effect of the pesticide Basudin 600 EW (containing 600 g.l -1 diazinon as the toxic substance). The activities of selected enzymes, metabolite concentrations and electrolytes were measured in 15 specimens of controls, K1-2, and in 16 specimens, K1-2, exposed for 96 h to the effects of Basudin 600 EW at a concentration of 32.5 mg.l -1 . Compared with the control group, a significant decrease of cholinesterase ( p < 0.01) and lactate dehydrogenase (p < 0.05) was ascertained in the experimental group. The values of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, creatine kinase, alkaline and acide phosphatases were comparable in the experimental and control groups. The total protein and lactate concentration were significantly lower ( p < 0.05) in the experimental group, compared with the control group. On the contrary, glucose concentration in the plasma of the experimental group was significantly higher ( p < 0.01) than in that of the control group. The experimental group showed a significantly higher ( p < 0.05) concentration of plasmatic natrium and potassium, and a significantly lower ( p < 0.05) concentration of plasmatic calcium and phosphorus, compared with those in the control group. The above results of examinations of the biochemical blood plasma profile indicate a marked neurotoxic effect of diazinon in fishes. Organophosphorous pesticide, acute toxicity, enzymes, total protein, glucose, lactate, electrolytes

Comparative biochemistry of ewe serum during oestrus and dioestrus.

In oviparous and ovoviviparous animals, the oestrous period is accompanied by striking changes in composition of blood (Urist, Schjeide & McLean, 1958). Limited information is available, however, on changes in the composition of the blood of mammals during the reproductive cycle. The research reported in this paper concerns changes in blood plasma biochemistry during the oestrous and dioestrous phases of the cycle in the ewe. Six mature ewes which had shown two consecutive oestrous cycles of normal duration were bled from the jugular vein on the day of oestrus. The same six animals were bled 6 days later during dioestrus. For both phases, ewes were bled at 09.00 hours before daily feeding. The blood samples were spun at 1600 g for 10 min and the serum was frozen at