BUN Concentrations Research Articles

Effect of Drinking Saline Water on Physiological, Haematological and Biochemical Parameters of Blackhead Ogaden Sheep and Somali Goats.

This study aimed to determine the effect of drinking saline water on the physiological, haematological and biochemical parameters of sheep and goats in Ethiopia. A total of 100 male growing and mature Blackhead Ogaden sheep and Somali goats with average initial body weights of 18.17 ± 0.5 and 22.22 ± 0.52 kg and 17.99 ± 0.50 and 21.99 ± 0.54 kg, respectively, were used. The design of the experiment was a three-way factorial with completely randomized block design with three-factor combinations (five treatment levels, two species and two age groups). Water treatments were Lake Basaka water (control); low saline water (LSW), moderate (MSW), high (HSW) and very high (VHSW), with NaCl, added to Lake Beseka water at concentrations of 7.95, 11.93, 15.90 and 19.88 g of total dissolved solids per litter (TDS/L). The physiological and blood parameters of the experimental animals were measured. The results show that rectal temperature (RT) and respiration rate (RR) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the H and VHSW groups. RT and RR also showed significant differences between species and age groups. Haemoglobin (Hb) and PCV levels were higher in the control group (p < 0.05). Increasing drinking saline water significantly reduced the concentration of glucose, total protein, albumin and triglycerides but increased the concentration of BUN, creatinine, ALT and AST. Glucose, albumin, and triglycerides were significantly higher (p < 0.05), while BUN, creatinine, ALT and AST concentrations were lower in sheep and mature animals than in goats and growing animals. Except for sodium and potassium, all blood electrolytes did not significantly differ within the treatment. Sodium and calcium significantly varied (p < 0.05) between species and age groups. The results indicated that drinking saline water above 11 g TDS/L affected the physiological and blood parameters of Somali goats and Blackhead Ogaden sheep. A Study revealed that sheep and mature animals performed better than goats and growing ones.

Diosgenin Mediated JAK/STAT Signal Channel Improving SD Rat Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion

To explore the mechanism of action of diosgenin and JAK/STAT in SD rat renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. A renal I/R injury model was established, rat was divided into four groups: control group, sham surgery group, I/R model group, and diosgenin pretreatment group. 48 hours after the completion of modeling, blood was collected for testing of SCr, BUN, and Kim-1. After blood collection, bilateral kidneys were cut and stored in liquid nitrogen for HE staining. Western blot was used to detect the protein expression levels of JAK and STAT in each group. Compare and analyze the differences in JAK/STAT expression levels among different groups. Compared with the I/R model group, the Scr, Bun, and Kim-1 concentrations of the three treatment groups were significantly lower, the other three treatment groups showed significant improvement in symptoms of renal vacuolar degeneration and interstitial edema in rats, the expression levels of JAK and STAT in the three groups were significantly lower, while the difference between the three groups was not significant.

Early metabolic and hemodynamic indicators of kidney dysfunction in mice offspring from parental low protein diet

BackgroundParental malnutrition, particularly a low-protein diet (LPD), causes oligonephropathy at birth and predisposes offspring to hypertension and chronic kidney disease later in life. The onset of adult kidney disease varies based on genetics and environmental factors, often with subclinical alterations in kidney function being overlooked. This study aimed to examine changes in kidney morphology before significant kidney function decline in the offspring of mice fed a low-protein diet.MethodsUsing a combination of histological analysis, kidney metabolic and hemodynamic panel assessments, and advanced statistical techniques such as Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), we investigated the initial impact of a maternal low-protein diet (LPD) on kidney development and function. Our study utilized 12-week-old F1 mice from F0 parents fed either a low-protein diet (LPD) or a normal-protein diet (NPD) before the onset of hypertension.ResultsThe offspring (F1 generation) of parents (F0 generation) fed an LPD show reduced body weight from birth to P20. The kidney weight was also reduced compared to F1 offspring from parents fed an NPD. At 12 weeks of age, body weight normalized, but kidney weight remained low. Offspring of parents fed an LPD displayed abnormal kidney morphology, including dilated tubules, oligonephropathy, and fluid-filled cysts which had worsened with age. A kidney metabolic panel analysis at 12 weeks revealed a slight but consistent increase in urine albumin, plasma creatinine, mean urea, and BUN concentrations. Although no significant changes in hemodynamic variables were observed, 2/12 mice, both males, showed alterations in systolic blood pressure, suggesting sex-specific effects when comparing F1 mice from F0 fed either diet. Overall, kidney metabolic changes were strongly correlated to parental LPD.ConclusionOur findings indicate that significant kidney damage must accumulate in the F1 generation from parents fed an LPD before any detectable changes in blood pressure occur. Our study suggests that small variations in kidney metabolic function may point to early kidney damage and should not be overlooked in the offspring of these malnourished mice and likely humans.

225 Kidney function and nitrogen excretion in Brown Swiss and Holstein dairy cows

Abstract The agricultural sector contributes to nitrogen (N) emissions since farm animals excrete considerable N amounts via feces and urine. To reduce N emissions by dairy cattle, methods predicting accurately individual N emissions are of great interest. Recent data showed that Brown Swiss (BS) cows have greater urea concentrations in milk and blood than Holstein (HO) cows. However, it is still unknown if greater BUN concentrations in a particular breed are congruently reflected by concomitantly increased contents of nitrogenous compounds in other media (e.g., urine and saliva). Thus, the present study simultaneously assessed biomarkers for kidney function like urea, and creatinine and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) concentrations in several body fluids (i.e., blood, urine, milk, and saliva) as well as nitrogen excretion in feces in BS and HO cows under identical feeding conditions. Blood, saliva, urine, and feces were sampled in 31 multiparous BS and 46 HO cows kept under identical feeding and management conditions. Samples were collected at different lactational stages after the monthly DHIA control test-day. Concentrations of urea and creatinine were measured in serum, urine, and saliva. Symmetric dimethylarginine was determined in serum, which is an established indicator for glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Feces were analyzed for dry matter content and nitrogen concentrations. Data on milk urea and protein concentrations, and daily milk yield were obtained from the monthly DHIA test-day records. The effects of breed, time, and parity number on blood, saliva, urine, feces, and milk parameters were evaluated with the GLM procedure with breed, time, and parity number as fixed effects. Differences between BS and HO were assessed by the Tukey-corrected t-test at P &amp;lt; 0.05. Dry matter intake and body weight were similar in BS and HO cows (P &amp;gt; 0.05). No differences between BS and HO were observed for milk yield, fecal DM and nitrogen content. BS cows showed greater urea concentration (25.8 ± 0.7 vs 21.8 ± 0.7 mg/dL), and protein content in milk (3.70 ± 0.08 vs 3.45 ± 0.07%) than HO cows (P &amp;lt; 0.01). Concentrations of urea, creatinine, and SDMA in serum, were greater in BS than in HO cows (P &amp;lt; 0.01) with 5.46 ± 0.19 vs 4.72 ± 0.13 mmol/L for urea, 105.96 ± 2.23 vs 93.07 ± 1.50 mmol/l creatinine, and 16.78 ± 0.69 vs 13.39 ± 0.44 µg/dL SDMA, respectively. Urea and creatinine concentrations in urine and saliva did not differ among breeds. Despite greater urea and creatinine concentrations in blood, and milk urea content in BS compared with HO, excretion of these parameters did not differ between breeds in urine. Our results suggest a reduced renal glomerular filtration rate in BS compared with HO. The underlying mechanisms require further investigations.

Outcomes of oxytocin treatment on intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

Ischemia-reperfusion injury is a clinical condition that poses life-threatening risks and can be caused by diseases or operations such as trauma, shock, and gastric dilatation volvulus. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of oxytocin on intestinal damage in rats induced by experimental ischemia-reperfusion injury. Three groups of Wistar albino rats were established: a control group (CTR, n=6), an intestinal ischemia-reperfusion group (I-IR, n=6), and an intestinal ischemia-reperfusion with oxytocin group (I-IR+Oxt, n=6). The I-IR+Oxt group received an intraperitoneal injection of 1 mg/kg oxytocin 30 minutes before anesthesia. In the I-IR and I-IR+Oxt groups, the superior mesenteric artery was ligated for 1 hour to induce ischemia-reperfusion injury, followed by one hour of reperfusion by opening the ligatures. At the end of the reperfusion period, the rats were euthanized, and blood and intestinal tissue samples were collected. From the blood samples, ALT, ALP, AST, LDH, BUN, creatinine, IL-1β, and TNF-α concentrations were evaluated. Tissue samples were analyzed for IL-1β, TNF-α, and MDA activity. Serum and tissue IL-1β and TNF-α concentrations were higher in both the I-IR and I-IR+Oxt groups compared to the CTR group. However, these levels were found to be lower in the I-IR+Oxt group compared to the I-IR group. The histopathological analysis showed that the I-IR+Oxt group had better epithelial regeneration and less inflammatory cell infiltration compared to the I-I/R group. In conclusion, oxytocin inhibited the release of IL-1β and TNF-α and the harmful effect of I/R on intestinal cells.

CS12192, a novel JAK3/JAK1/TBK1 inhibitor, attenuates autoimmune dermatoses in murine models

Objective Autoimmune dermatosis (AID) occurs when the body’s immune system attacks skin or tissue, leading to various types of skin disorders or injuries. Recent studies show that Janus kinases (JAKs) play critical roles in autoimmune diseases including AID by regulating multiple cytokine signaling pathways. CS12192, a novel JAK3/JAK1/TBK1 inhibitor, has been reported to exert ameliorative effects in rheumatoid arthritis. However, the efficacy of CS12192 on AID is undetermined. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of CS12192 on psoriasis (PSO), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and atopic dermatitis (AD) in mouse models. Methods Interleukin-23 (IL-23)-induced PSO model, spontaneous SLE model of MRL/MpJ-Faslpr/J (MRL/lpr) mice, and oxazolone (OXA) and dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced murine AD models were used for the evaluation of curative effects of CS12192, respectively. The skin lesion, biochemical parameters, ear thickness, ear weight and histopathology were assessed accordingly. Results In PSO model, mice treated with CS12192 show reduced ear thickness and ear weight as compared with vehicle. In SLE model, CS12192 ameliorates cutaneous parameters such as lymphadenectasis and skin lesion but not systematic parameters such as proteinuria concentration and score, serum dsDNA and BUN concentration. In AD models, CS12192 dose-dependently improves ear swelling and reduces histological scores, exerting equivalent efficacy with baricitinib, a marketed JAK1/JAK2 inhibitor. Conclusion Our findings suggest that the novel JAK3/JAK1/TBK1 inhibitor CS12192 is potentially to alleviate autoimmune dermatosis.

Effects of increasing dietary inclusion of high oleic acid soybeans on milk production of high-producing dairy cows

Recent research has highlighted the importance of dietary fatty acid profile of fatty acid supplements on production responses of high-producing dairy cows. Conventional soybeans contain ∼15% oleic acid and ∼50% linoleic acid whereas high oleic acid soybeans (HOSB) contain ∼70% oleic acid and ∼7% linoleic acid. We determined the effect of increasing dietary inclusion of roasted and ground HOSB on production responses of high-producing dairy cows. Twenty-four multiparous Holstein cows (50.7 ± 4.45 kg/d of milk; 122 ± 57 DIM) were randomly assigned to treatment sequences in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with 21-d periods. Treatments were increasing doses of HOSB at 0, 8, 16, and 24% DM. The HOSB replaced conventional soybean meal and hulls to maintain similar diet nutrient composition (% DM) of 27.4 - 29.4% (NDF), 20.6% forage NDF, 27.5% starch, and 15.9 - 16.5% CP. Total fatty acid content of treatments was 1.65, 3.11, 4.52, and 5.97% DM, respectively. Pre-planned polynomial orthogonal contrasts included the linear, quadratic, and cubic effects of increasing HOSB. Increasing dietary inclusion of HOSB linearly decreased DMI and milk urea nitrogen and increased yields of milk, 3.5% fat corrected milk, energy corrected milk, and milk fat, and quadratically increased milk protein. The increased response to milk fat was due to an increase in preformed milk fatty acids. Due to the increase in milk component yields and decrease in DMI, there was an increase in feed efficiency. Increasing HOSB inclusion linearly decreased plasma BUN concentration and tended to decrease plasma insulin. Increasing HOSB had no effect on BW change or BCS change. In summary, increasing dietary inclusion of HOSB up to 24% DM increased production responses of high-producing dairy cows and did not affect body reserves.

Improvement effects of transplanting pancreatic islet that previously incubated with biomaterials on the diabetic nephropathy in STZ- diabetic rats

BackgroundIslet transplantation is an effective treatment for diabetes or even its complications. Aim of this study is to investigate efficacy of biomaterial treated islet transplantation on treating diabetic nephropathy.MethodsMale rats were randomly divided into 6 groups; Control, diabetic control, diabetic transplanted with untreated islets, with platelet rich plasma treated islets, with pancreatic islets homogenate treated islets, or with these biomaterials combination treated islets. Islets cultured with biomaterials and transplanted to diabetic rats. After 60 days, biochemical, oxidative stress, and stereological parameters were assessed.ResultsSerum albumin and BUN concentration, decreased and increased respectively, Oxidative stress of kidney impaired, kidney weight, volume of kidney, cortex, medulla, glomerulus, proximal and distal tubules, collecting ducts, vessels, inflammatory, necrotic and fibrotic tissue in diabetic group increased compared to control group (p < 0.001). In treated groups, especially pancreatic islets homogenate treated islets transplanting animals, there was significant changes in kidney weight, and volume of kidney, proximal and distal tubules, Henle’s loop and collecting ducts compared with diabetic group (p = 0.013 to p < 0.001). Combination treated islets animals showed significant increase in vessel volume compared to diabetic group (p < 0.001). Necrotic and fibrotic tissue significantly decreased in islets treated than untreated islet animals, it was higher in pancreatic islets homogenate, and combination treated islets groups (p = 0.001).ConclusionsBiomaterials treated islets transplanting could improve diabetic nephropathy. Improvement of oxidative stress followed by controlling glucose level, and effects of growth factors presenting in biomaterials can be considered as capable underlying mechanism of ameliorating inflammatory, necrotic and fibrotic tissue volume.

Investigation of Adiponectin, Leptin and Ghrelin Levels and Evaluation of Metabolic Profiles in the Periparturient Period in Romanov Sheep

The periparturient period is very important especially in terms of pregnancy-related herd-based diseases. In this period, especially for early diagnosis of subclinical diseases, a metabolic profile test is used. In the periparturient period, important changes occur in adipose tissue. Blood samples were collected from 16 Romanov sheep in the periparturient in serum tubes on the 21st, 14th, 7th, and postpartum days, and 7th, 14th, and 21st days after delivery. Metabolic profile and Adiponectin, Leptin and Ghrelin parameters evaluated from the blood samples. In the periparturient period, ELISA analyzes of TNF-α were performed for inflammatory evaluation. As a result of the analyzes, Prenatal increase in NEFA concentrations, postpartum decrease in cholesterol concentrations, postpartum increase and decrease in AST concentrations, postpartum increase in GGT concentrations, prenatal and postnatal increases in total protein concentrations, postpartum increase in BUN and creatinine concentrations, postpartum decrease in magnesium concentrations, Prenatal increase in adiponectin concentrations and postpartum decrease, postpartum decrease in leptin concentrations and prenatal increase in ghrelin concentrations occurred. With the results obtained, it was concluded that the evaluation of metabolic profile and adipose tissue is important in the diagnosis of diseases in the periparturient period.

A prospective cohort study to identify clinical diagnostic and prognostic markers of primary immune thrombocytopenia in dogs.

Primary immune thrombocytopenia (pITP) in dogs presents a diagnostic challenge, and clinical markers of severity are lacking. Identify clinicopathologic features that differentiate pITP from secondary ITP (sITP) and markers related to bleeding severity, transfusion, and survival of dogs with pITP. Ninety-eight thrombocytopenic dogs (58 pITP and 40 sITP). Client-owned dogs with platelet counts <50 000/μL were enrolled in a prospective, multi-institution cohort study. History and treatment information, through a maximum of 7 days, was recorded on standard data forms. Bleeding severity was scored daily using a bleeding assessment tool (DOGiBAT). At-admission blood samples were collected for CBC, biochemistry, C-reactive protein concentration, and coagulation panels, and to measure platelet surface-associated immunoglobulin G (PSAIg) and expression of platelet membrane proteins and phospholipids. Dogs with evidence of coincident disease were classified as sITP. No definitive pITP diagnostic test was found. However, pITP cases were characterized by lower platelet counts, D dimer concentrations, and platelet membrane protein expression than sITP cases. Differentiation between pITP and sITP was further enhanced using logistic regression modeling combining patient sex, coagulation profile, platelet count, D dimer, and PSAIg. A second model of pITP severity indicated that low hematocrit and high BUN concentration were associated with non-survival. Low hematocrit at admission, but not platelet count or DOGiBAT score, was associated with transfusion. Pending validation studies, models constructed from at-admission clinicopathologic findings may improve differentiation of pITP from sITP and identify the most severe pITP cases at the time of presentation.

Investigation the effects of 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) on aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity

ABSTRACT Investigation the protective effect of transient receptor potential channel modulator 2-Aminoethoxydiphenyl Borate (2-APB) on aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity caused by reactive oxygen species, calcium-induced apoptosis and inflammation was aimed. Forty Wistar rats were divided (n=8) as follows: Control group; DMSO group; 2-APB group; Gentamicin group (injected 100 mg/kg gentamicin intramuscularly for 10 days); Gentamicin+ 2-APB group (injected 2 mg/kg 2-APB intraperitoneally, then after 30 minutes 100 mg/kg gentamicin was injected intramuscularly for 10 days). Blood samples were collected for biochemical analyses, kidney tissue samples were collected for light, electron microscopic and immunohistochemical investigations. In gentamicin group glomerular degeneration, tubular dilatation, vacuolization, desquamation of tubular cells and hyaline cast formation in luminal space and leukocyte infiltration were seen. Disorganization of microvilli of tubular cells, apical cytoplasmic blebbing, lipid accumulation, myelin figure like structure formation, increased lysosomes, mitochondrial swelling and disorganization of cristae structures, apoptotic changes and widening of intercellular space were found. TNF-α, IL-6 and caspase 3 expressions were increased. BUN and creatinine concentrations were increased. Increase in MDA levels and decrease in SOD activities were determined. Even though degeneration still continues in gentamicin+2-APB treatment group, severity and the area it occupied were decreased and the glomerular and tubule structures were generally preserved. TNF-α, IL-6, caspase 3 immunoreactivities and BUN, creatinine, MDA concentrations were reduced and SOD activities were increased markedly compared to gentamicin group. In conclusion, it has been considered that 2-APB can prevent gentamicin mediated nephrotoxicity with its anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Evaluation of native medicinal plants as feed additives in the Sheep ration

The present study evaluated nutritional attributes of local medicinal herbs and analysed their effect as feed additives in sheep ration. Proximate and fiber analysis of all herbs- Allium sativa, Cuminum cyminum, Emblica officinalis, Murraya koenigiii, Pimpinella anisum, Sapindus trifoliatus, Terminalia arjuna, Trigonella-foenum graecum, Zingiber officinale, Curcuma longa, Ocimum tenuiflorum and Azadirachta indica and their further screening at different inclusion levels of 3%, 3.5% and 4% of ration to ascertain their effect on in vitro rumen fluid pH, dry matter digestibility and organic matter digestibility of ration was carried out during in vitro phase. Pimpinella anisum @ 3% of ration resulted in significant increase in in vitro dry matter digestibility and in vitro organic matter digestibility of ration. In vivo trial was conducted in which fourteen indigenous, non-descript, adult male sheep (body weight, 27.10±0.10 kg and age, 22-24 months) were randomly allotted into two groups and fed ad lib. wheat straw and concentrate mixture @ 25 g/W0.75 along with Pimpinella anisum @ 3% of ration in treatment group. Comparable OM, CP, EE digestibility was seen in both groups, however, treatment group had significantly higher DM, total carbohydrate, CF, NDF, ADF and HC digestibility. Both groups had positive nitrogen, calcium and phosphorus balance, however, treatment group had significantly increased nitrogen balance. Rumen fermentation parameters were comparable in both groups. Haemoglobin, PCV, serum protein and albumin in treatment group were significantly higher while no significant variation was seen in serum globulin, Albumin:Globulin ratio, total cholesterol, ALT, AST, BUN, creatinine and blood glucose concentration between both groups. It can be inferred from the above data that Pimpinella anisum @ 3% of ration can effectively be used as a feed additive in sheep ration for improving feed intake, nutrient digestibility and utilisation.

The effect of resveratrol on live weight, serum biochemistry and tissue antioxidant enzymes in rats

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of resveratrol used in adding it to drinking water. The study was carried out with 24 Wistar albino male 20 days rats for 40 days. The study design was determined as one control and two trial groups (each group with 2 parallels and each parallel with 4 rats). The first group was given a basal ration and drinking water. The second group was given the basal ration and drinking water with 10 mg/kg resveratrol; and the third group was given the basal ration and drinking water 20 mg/kg resveratrol. In serum biochemistry parameters, significant decreases were observed in serum Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzyme activity, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), albumin, total protein and globulin concentrations and increase in albumin/globulin ratio in groups given resveratrol (p&amp;lt;0.05). Regardless of the dose, an increase in the concentration of glutathione (GSH) from the antioxidant parameters was observed in the liver; In the kidney, an increase was observed in the Res10 group. In addition, a decrease in muscle superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and an increase in muscle and kidney catalase (CAT) activity were observed. A decrease was observed in malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations, which is a parameter of lipid peroxidation in the kidney. As a result, it was determined in the present study that resveratrol has antioxidant effects regardless of the way of use, and it was concluded that this additive can be used for various purposes.

Effects of green tea powder on production performance, egg quality, and blood biochemical parameters in laying hens

The paper aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary inclusion of green tea powder (GTP) on laying performance, egg quality, and blood biochemical parameters of laying hens. A total of 240 Jingfen No. 6 laying hens (age, 24 wk) were randomly allocated into 4 groups: control group (CON, basal diet), GTP0.5, GTP0.75, and GTP1.0 (basal diet included 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0% GTP, respectively). Each group has 5 replicates with 12 birds each. The feeding trial lasted 8 wk. The results showed that the hen-day egg production rate in GTP0.5 and GTP 0.75 group was higher than that of GTP1.0 group (P < 0.05), hen-day egg production rate in the GTP1.0 group was lower compared to the CON group (P > 0.05), the feed conversion ratio (FCR) in the GTP0.75 group was lower than that in CON and GTP 1.0 group (P < 0.05) during the entire experimental period. Albumen height and Haugh unit were higher in the GTP0.75 and GTP1.0 group compared to the CON group at d 56 (P < 0.05). At the end of experiment, plasma TG content in the GTP0.75 and GTP1.0 group was lower than that in the CON group (P < 0.05), the T-CH concentration in the GTP0.5 and GTP0.75 group was lower compared to the CON group (P < 0.05), plasma LDL-C and CORT concentrations were decreased by dietary GTP supplementation (P < 0.05), the HDL-C and BUN concentrations in the GTP0.75 and GTP1.0 group were higher than that in the CON group (P < 0.05). The antibody titers of H5N1 in the GTP0.75 and GTP1.0 group, and H7N9 in the GTP1.0 group were lower than that in the CON group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary GTP inclusion could affect laying performance, regulate lipid metabolism, and have no favorable influence on antibody titers of H5N1 and H7N9, herein, dietary 0.5% GTP inclusion is suggested for Jingfen No. 6 laying hens during the peak laying period.

Effect of Brazilian spinach (Alternanthera sissoo) pellet supplementation and dietary ratios on rumen characteristics, microorganisms, methane production, milk yield, and milk composition in dairy cows.

The aim of the previous research was to evaluate the effects of Brazilian spinach pellet (BSP) supplementation and dietary ratios on rumen characteristics, methane estimation, and milk production in dairy cows. Four crossbred Thai dairy cattle, with Holstein Friesian (HF) cows with a body weight of 442 ± 50 kg were assessed in a 2 × 2 factorial in a 4 × 4 Latin square design to obtain diets; factor A was the roughage (R) to concentrate (C) ratio at 40:60 and 30:70, and factor B was level of BSP supplantation at 2% and 6% of dry matter (basis) intake (DMI). R:C ratio and supplementation of BSP had no interaction effect on DMI and nutrient digestibility. On DM, organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) intake, the R:C ratio increased (p < 0.05). The digestibility of OM improved (p < 0.05) when cows were fed a R:C ratio of 30:70. On pH, ammonia-nitrogen, protozoal population, and blood urea-nitrogen, there were no interactions between the R:C ratio and BSP supplementation. Increasing the BSP supplementation to 6% (p < 0.01) decreased the protozoal population. The R:C ratio of 30:70 increased total volatile fatty acid (VFA) and propionate (C3) concentrations while decreasing the acetate (C2) to C3 ratio and methane (CH4 ) estimation (p < 0.01). The average concentration of total VFA has increased by 114.46 mmol/L for 6% of BSP supplementation. Increased BSP supplementation increased the C3 concentration while decreasing the C2:C3 ratio and CH4 emissions (p < 0.05). The R:C ratio and BSP supplementation had no interaction effect on milk yield, 3.5% fat-corrected milk (FCM), or milk composition. The R:C ratio of 30:70 increased milk yield (p < 0.05) to the highest level of 12.18 kg/day. In conclusion, the diet containing a R:C ratio of 30:70 increased feed intake, milk yield, BUN, total VFA, and C3 concentration, and decreased the C2:C3 ratio and CH4 emission. BSP supplementation at 6% could increase TVFA and C3 concentrations while decreasing the protozoal population and CH4 estimation.

Association between Serum Cys C and PTB Cavitation.

Cystatin C (Cys C) not only regulates the body's immune defenses but also contributes to tissue degradation and destruction by causing an imbalance between protease and antiprotease in infectious diseases. Is Cys C involved in pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) infection and cavitation? We therefore conducted a retrospective study on this question to provide a basis for further studies. Cavitary PTB patients, noncavitary PTB patients, and healthy controls were recruited in our study. Serum Cys C, CRP, BUN, UA, and CR were measured in all subjects, and the Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare medians of these clinical parameters in different groups. The Spearman rank correlation test was used to determine correlations between variables. In addition, a multivariate analysis using binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with PTB cavitation. In our study, elevated serum Cys C levels were found in cavitary PTB patients compared to healthy controls and noncavitary patients (p = 0.022). Serum Cys C levels were statistically correlated with serum BUN and CR concentrations (r = 0.278, p = 0.005; r = 0.281, p = 0.004) in PTB patients. The binary logistic regression analysis showed that elevated serum Cys C levels were correlated with pulmonary cavitation in PTB patients (OR = 1.426, 95% CI: 1.071-1.898). Elevated serum levels of Cys C are associated with pulmonary cavitation in PTB patients.

Milk plane of nutrition and alfalfa hay provision in neonatal Holstein calves: growth performance, ruminal fermentation characteristics, and blood biochemical attributes

Greater nutrient supply through an increased amount of milk and addition of forage to starter may improve the growth rate, rumen development, average daily gain (ADG), and dry matter intake (DMI) of dairy calves. This experiment aimed to study the effect of interaction between milk plane feeding and inclusion of alfalfa hay in starter on the performance, skeletal characteristics, ruminal fermentation and plasma metabolites of dairy calves. Thirty-two 3-d-old Holstein female calves (36.43 ± 2.1 initial BW) were individually housed (n = 8 calves per treatment) and, assigned to 1 of 4 experimental treatment groups in a completely randomized design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. Experimental treatment groups were (1) conventional (COV) milk feeding without forage provision (COV-NF); (2) COV milk feeding with forage provision (COV-F); (3) high milk feeding without forage provision (HM-NF); and (4) high milk feeding with forage provision (HM-F). Calves in the COV and high milk methods received 4 or 8 L/d milk, respectively. Forage-supplemented calves received 15% alfalfa hay mixed with the thoroughly ground starter as a total mixed ration. Calves had ad libitum access to water and starter throughout the study. All calves were weaned at 56 d of age and, the experiment was fulfilled two weeks following the weaning. Individual milk intake and solid feed consumption were recorded daily. The interaction of milk plane nutrition and alfalfa provision was significant for the starter and DM intake, with the greatest starter intake for COV-F treatment and DMI for COV-F and HM-NF treatments during the overall period. The greatest ADG during the pre-weaning and overall period and BW at weaning were observed in HM-NF treatment calves. Calves in the HM-NF treatment had the highest final heart girth; however, other skeletal measurements were not influenced by milk plane feeding and alfalfa provision interaction. No interaction was detected between the milk plane feeding and alfalfa provision for plasma glucose, BUN, BHBA, albumin, total protein, AST and ALT concentrations and rumen fermentation attributes. Regardless of alfalfa provision, pre-weaning starter intake, ADG, feed efficiency (FE), post-weaning starter intake, overall starter intake, FE, weaning BW, body length and hip height, and acetate concentration were increased; whereas, total VFA and valerate concentrations were decreased as milk plane increased. Milk plane feeding and forage inclusion had no effect on diarrhea incidence. It is concluded that independent of alfalfa provision, feeding a higher milk plane improved the performance of dairy calves.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Covert Hepatic Encephalopathy in Cirrhotic Patients: A Multicenter Study in China.

We aimed to determine the prevalence of covert hepatic encephalopathy (CHE) in cirrhotic patients from China and to investigate its risk factors. A multicenter prospective observational study was conducted from January 2021 to March 2022 in 16 centers to investigate the impact factors of CHE and establish a prognostic model for CHE episodes. Totally 528 patients were enrolled in the analysis. Based on the anomalies of both PHES and Stroop test results, the prevalence of CHE was 50.4% (266/528), and the consistency between these two tests was 68.9%. Advanced age (OR = 1.043; 95% CI: 1.022-1.063, P < 0.001), low education level (OR = 0.891; 95% CI: 0.832-0.954, P = 0.001), poor Child-Pugh score (OR = 1.142; 95% CI: 1.029-1.464, P = 0.025), and high BUN concentration (OR = 1.126; 95% CI: 1.038-1.2221, P = 0.004) were associated with CHE episodes. According to the chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ), CHE patients had lower scores for abdominal symptoms and systemic symptoms (P < 0.001), which reflected the poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL). According to the stepwise Cox regression hazard model analysis, we established a nomogram for determining the probabilities of CHE episodes, and the AUC was 0.733 (95% CI: 0.679-0.788) in the training cohort and 0.713 (95% CI: 0.628-0.797) in the validation cohort. CHE was a common complication of cirrhosis in China. It is necessary to carry out more large-scale studies with longer follow-up periods to determine the natural history of Chinese CHE patients. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Metabolic and immune status of pre-weaning crossbred calves reared on different dietary regimes in Kerala

Seventy two new born crossbred calves were selected and grouped in three dietary treatments-C, T1 and T2. Calves in the group T1 were fed ad libitum milk twice daily for one hour along with calf starter and green fodder. The T2 group were fed on the dietary protocol as T1 but was fed calf starter supplemented with essential oils. The dietary treatment of control group (C) was as per the Package of Practices Recommendations, KVASU. Blood samples were collected from the calves at the time of birth, second day and monthly intervals for up to three months for biochemical analysis. The plasma glucose concentrations of calves in dietary treatments C, T1 and T2 after one month were 5.69±0.166, 6.26±0.174 and 6.15±0.166 mM respectively. The glucose levels of calves in dietary treatments of C, T1 and T2 at three months were 4.22±0.062, 4.50±0.061 and 4.33±0.063, respectively and differed significantly (p&lt;0.01) between C and T1. The serum concentration of Betahydroxy butyric acid (BHBA) for dietary treatments C, T1 and T2 increased with age and reached 0.418±0.025, 0.403±0.026 and 0.410±0.025 mM respectively and did not differ significantly between treatments. Significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) serum cholesterol concentration of 2.82±0.090 and 2.86 ± 0.086 mM were recorded in calves in T1 and T2, respectively. Serum concentration of triglycerides, total protein and albumin were similar in all treatment groups. Lower BUN values of 8.96±0.64 and 8.89±0.64 mM were seen in T1 and T2, respectively while C group had serum BUN concentration of 10.33±0.63 mM. Increased levels of serum BHBA indicated rumen development where there is a shift in the precursor of energy from glucose to volatile fatty acids. Ad libitum colostrum feeding resulted in significantly higher (P&lt;0.001) level of IgG from the second day improving the immune status of new-born calves.

Tripterygium Wilfordii Polyglycosides (TP) Ameliorate Alcoholic Kidney Injury in Rats by Regulating Protein Expression Associated with the Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 Signaling Pathway

Objective: To explore the mechanisms of protection of tripterygium wilfordii polyglycosides (TP) against alcoholic kidney injury by regulating Nrf2 signaling pathway in rats. Materials and Methods: Dividing rats into Control, Model, LD, MD and HD groups. The kidney was weighed to calculate kidney index. The morphology of the kidney was observed by HE staining. Nrf2, p-Nrf2 and HO-1 in kidney were detected by immunohistochemistry. Measuring Scr by Jaffe’s method and BUN by diacetyl-oxime method. The renal SOD and MDA were detected by colorimetry. The renal ROS was detected by fluorescence spectrometry. Results: Compared with Control, histopathological changes were observed in Model group, The kidney index, Scr, BUN, renal MDA and ROS concentrations increased significantly (P &lt;0.001). Renal SOD activity, expression of p-Nrf2 and HO-1, p-Nrf2/Nrf2 decreased significantly (P &lt; 0.001). With TP supplement, compared with Model, histopathological was improved, The kidney index, Scr, BUN, renal MDA and ROS concentrations decreased significantly (P &lt;0.05, respectively); Renal SOD activity, p-Nrf2 and HO-1, p-Nrf2/Nrf2 increased significantly (P &lt;0.05, respectively) in TP treated groups (LD, MD and HD). Conclusion: TP can prevent or reduce oxidative stress and attenuate alcoholic kidney injury via regulating Nrf2 signaling pathway in vivo.