Fluid Of Sheep Research Articles

Effect of adaptogen lithium ascorbate on the microbiota of rumen in young ewes

Health and productivity of ruminants directly depend on the state of rumen and digestion in intestinal tract. Normal microflora protects the body from pathogenic microbes, stimulates the immune system, participates in metabolic reactions and plays an important role in energy metabolism. Disturbance of species composition of microflora in rumen under effect of various factors leads to a state of dysbiosis, disorders of products digestibility, changes in enzymatic processes and other disorders. Biologically active substances of an adaptogenic nature can show immunomodulatory and antimicrobial activity. Adaptogen lithium ascorbate has stress-protective, neurotrophic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, immunomodulatory properties. In this paper, using molecular genetic methods, the effect of lithium ascorbate on composition of rumen microbiota of sheep was studied for the first time. Composition of microbiota was determined by NGS sequencing method. In total, 37 phylums, 76 classes, 98 orders, 225 families and 894 species of microorganisms were identified. It has been determined that introduction of lithium ascorbate at a dose of 10 mg/kg of body weight into the main diet of sheep contributed to increase in proportion of cellulolytic bacteria from 73.6±1.6% to 75.4±0.9% and over 40% decrease in total number of infusoria in rumen content. Cellulolytic activity of rumen fluid in sheep of the experimental group increased by 38% compared to the animals of the control group. The number of pathogenic bacteria decreased from 2.7% in sheep of the control group to 1.6% in animals of the experimental group, while the content of beneficial bacilli increased from 0.3% to 0.5%, respectively. Content of undesirable and conditionally pathogenic microflora decreased in the sheep of experimental group. The obtained data confirm positive effect of adaptogen lithium ascorbate, introduced into diet at a dosage of 10 mg/kg of body weight, on qualitative and quantitative composition of microbiota in sheep rumen. Therefore, lithium ascorbate, a broad-spectrum adaptogen, can be recommended as a feed additive to the main diet of sheep to improve rumen digestion and increase productivity.

O efeito de probióticos fúngicos adicionados a uma dieta rica em grãos no trato gastrointestinal de ovinos

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological and physicochemical characteristics of the ruminal fluid and histological characteristics of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of sheep on a high-grain diet containing the probiotic fungi Aspergillus terreus and Rhizomucor spp. The study included four treatment groups (without probiotic, with Rhizomucor spp., with Aspergillus terreus, and with a mixture of both fungi), and two types of corn (ground/whole), in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) arranged in 4 x 2 factorial design. Santa Inês x Dorper lambs were housed in eight pens with five lambs each for 75 days. Rumen fluid was collected to study the rumen microbiological profile, macroscopic characteristics, ammonia nitrogen concentration, and microbiological activity. In addition, GIT samples were taken for histological analysis. Fluid analyses showed that the animals presented a low acidosis index. The samples presented a predominantly aromatic odor and blackish-brown color, indicating a neutral pH and high microbial activity. The rumen pH differed (P < 0.05) according to the level of processed corn consumed, being higher for ground grain corn (GGC). There was no difference for any of the microbiological communities analyzed (P > 0.05) (Lac+ and Lac- bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and protozoa). Six genera of facultative anaerobic fungi were identified in 15 observations. Cladosporium spp. was the most prevalent genus (46.66%), followed by Aspergillus spp. (26,66%). The width of the base of rumen papillae showed significant correlation being greater for GCG (P < 0.05) with Rhizomucor and for the control (P < 0.05). The rumen fluid of sheep on a high-grain diet with added Aspergillus terreus and Rhizomucor spp. showed no microbiological and physicochemical changes.

Involvement of neurosteroids in the control of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity in pregnant sheep under basal and stressful conditions

Neurosteroids are synthesized locally in the brain, where they can modify neuronal functionality depending on the physiological state. A high correlation was demonstrated between the increasing activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and allopregnanolone (AL) concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid in sheep during pregnancy. Therefore, the present study tested the hypothesis that blocking neurosteroid synthesis in the brain of a pregnant sheep would affect HPA axis activity under both basal and stressful conditions. Two groups of sheep in the fourth month of gestation (n = 7 each) were subjected to the following treatments: 1) intracerebroventricular (icv) infusion of vehicle for three days (C) and then icv infusion of finasteride (a total of 100 μg/240 μL/day) for three days (F), one week apart, and 2) icv infusion of vehicle for three days and application of stressful stimuli (isolation and partial movement restriction) on the third day (S), and subsequently icv infusion of finasteride for three days and application of stressful stimuli on the third day (SF), one week apart. On the third days of the experiment, a 4-h push-pull perfusion of the infundibular nucleus/median eminence and blood sampling were performed. Mean perfusate corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and cortisol concentrations were significantly higher in sheep treated with finasteride, stress and finasteride in combination with stress compared to controls. The highest hormone concentrations in Groups F, S and SF, were recorded during the first 60 min; however, significant increases in CRH and ACTH levels were observed in Group SF towards the end of the experiment. It can be concluded that neurosteroids may be an essential component of the mechanism controlling HPA axis activity in pregnant sheep, not only under stress-free conditions, but more importantly, also by inhibiting the neuroendocrine response to stressors.

Biological potential cestodes of Echinococcus granulosus in dogs and sheep in the Republic Dagestan

The article is devoted to the study of the biotic potential and the role of the cestode Echinococcus granulosus in the infection of shepherd dogs and sheep in the republic. It has been established that the average intensity of invasion (II) of the causative agent of echinococcosis in shepherd dogs in the surveyed areas (Kizlyarsky, Laksky, Nogaysky, Sergokalinsky, Suleiman – Stalsky, Khasavyurt, Tsumadinsky, Shamilsky, etc.) is 1768 ± 245; 2924 ± 369; 3456 ± 382; 4683 ± 597; 2249 ± 321; 1870 ± 263; 2633 ± 352; 2149 ± 286 specimens / specimen. Infection of adult sheep with echinococcosis occurs in all surveyed areas, with fluctuations in the intensity of invasion (II) from 14.8 ± 1.3 to 21.3 ± 1.9 specimens / specimen, on average 17.56 ± 1.53 specimens. /individual. In sheep of all age groups, with a complete helminthological autopsy, in 1 ml of echinococcal fluid, fertile larvocysts were found in an amount of 20.36 ± 1.15 specimens / individual, except for young sheep, up to 1 year old. In sheep under the age of 2 years, fertile larvocysts of Echinococcus granulosus are found in the amount of 9.2 ± 0.41 specimens / specimen 0.83 ± 0.076 thousand specimens. The average number of fertile larvocysts found in 1 ml of fluid in sheep at the age of up to 3 years is 15.8 ± 0.93 specimens / individual and 1.15 ± 0.098 thousand specimens; up to 4 years old – 20.5 ± 1.17 specimens / individual and 1.92 ± 0.17 thousand specimens; up to 5 years – 27.3 ± 1.69 specimens / individual and 2.58 ± 0.26 thousand specimens; up to 6 years old – 36.7 ± 1.88 specimens / individual and 3.06 ± 0.49 thousand specimens. These data indicate an increase in the role and activity of the ovine variant of the causative agent of echinococcosis Echinococcus granulosus.

Partitioning of fatty acids into tissues and fluids from reproductive organs of ewes as affected by dietary phenolic extracts

Evaluation of dietary interventions with regard to fertility problems often observed in ruminant livestock is of global interest. Though the effects of polyphenol supplementation in ruminants on digestion and food quality are well described, the impact on reproductive tissues and fluids remains scarcely investigated. These compounds protect dietary unsaturated fatty acids (FA) from oxidation and biohydrogenation and thus saturation. In addition, modification of the expression of genes associated with FA metabolism may occur. Therefore, we characterized for the first time the FA profiles of reproductive tissues and fluids and investigated their potential modification by dietary polyphenols in 22 cyclic ewes. The animals were randomly divided into four groups and fed a basal diet of meadow hay and one of four concentrate types either non-supplemented (control) or supplemented with grape seed extract, Acacia mearnsii bark extract (13 g/kg dry matter (DM) each) or a combination of both (26 g/kg DM). After 10 weeks of feeding, the animals were slaughtered. Samples of reproductive (oviduct, uterus) and metabolically differently active tissues (liver, muscle, adipose) as well as of plasma and fluids from oviduct and uterus were analysed for their FA composition. In addition, the expression of lipid metabolic and antioxidant genes was analysed in all tissues except the adipose tissue. Fatty acid profiles in tissues and fluids as well as gene expression in tissues significantly differed between the different fluids and tissues. In contrast, only a few diet and matrix (fluid or tissue) × diet interactions were observed. Still, the FA profile of the uterus was the only one not at all affected by the diet. The mRNA expression was not affected by the diet for most of the genes investigated, which might in part be explained by the similar plasma polyphenol concentrations found at slaughter. Overall, our findings contribute to an improved understanding of the characteristic FA composition of reproductive tissues and fluids in sheep. In addition, the effect of polyphenols on different tissues, fluids and tissue gene expression has been confirmed as described in other animal species.

The Concentrations of Rumen Fluid Volatile Fatty Acids and Ammonia, and Rumen Microbial Protein Production in Sheep Given Feed During the Day and Night Time

An experimental study was carried out to investigate the concentrations of volatile (VFA), ammonia and microbial protein production of rumen fluid in sheep given fedd during the day and at night. This study used 12 fat-tailed rams aged 12-18 months and weighed 24,12 ± 25 kg (CV = 10,51%). The rams were fed a complete feed containing 16.64% protein and 68,33% total digestible nutrients (TDN). The rams were allocated into a completely randomised design with 3 treatments and 4 replications. The treatments applied were: T1: day time feeding (6.00 hrs – 18.00 hrs); T2: night time feeding (18.00 hrs – 6.00 hrs); and T3: day and night time feedings (6.00 hrs – 6.00 hrs). The parameters observed were dry matter intake (DMI), rumen VFA concentration, rumen ammonia concentration, rumen rmicrobial protein production and the efficiency of rumen microbial protein production. The results showed that feeding time did not significantly affect (P>0.05) all the parameters observed. Dry matter intake, VFA concentration, ammonia concentration, the microbial protein production of rumen fluid and the efficiency of microbial protein production were 1,073g/d, 49.69 mmol; 4.77 mg N/100 ml, 12,111 g/d and 19.96 g per kg digestible organic matter intake (DOMI), respectively. It is concluded that feeding time did not affect DMI, condition of rumen fluid and rumen microbial protein production in sheep.

Thyroxine (T4) Transfer from Blood to Cerebrospinal Fluid in Sheep Isolated Perfused Choroid Plexus: Role of Multidrug Resistance-Associated Proteins and Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptides.

Thyroxine (T4) enters the brain either directly across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) or indirectly via the choroid plexus (CP), which forms the blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier (B-CSF-B). In this study, using isolated perfused CP of the sheep by single-circulation paired tracer and steady-state techniques, T4 transport mechanisms from blood into lateral ventricle CP has been characterized as the first step in the transfer across the B-CSF-B. After removal of sheep brain, the CPs were perfused with 125I-T4 and 14C-mannitol. Unlabeled T4 was applied during single tracer technique to assess the mode of maximum uptake (Umax) and the net uptake (Unet) on the blood side of the CP. On the other hand, in order to characterize T4 protein transporters, steady-state extraction of 125I-T4 was measured in presence of different inhibitors such as probenecid, verapamil, BCH, or indomethacin. Increasing the concentration of unlabeled-T4 resulted in a significant reduction in Umax%, which was reflected by a complete inhibition of T4 uptake into CP. In fact, the obtained Unet% decreased as the concentration of unlabeled-T4 increased. The addition of probenecid caused a significant inhibition of T4 transport, in comparison to control, reflecting the presence of a carrier mediated process at the basolateral side of the CP and the involvement of multidrug resistance-associated proteins (MRPs: MRP1 and MRP4) and organic anion transporting polypeptides (Oatp1, Oatp2, and Oatp14). Moreover, verapamil, the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrate, resulted in ~34% decrease in the net extraction of T4, indicating that MDR1 contributes to T4 entry into CSF. Finally, inhibition in the net extraction of T4 caused by BCH or indomethacin suggests, respectively, a role for amino acid “L” system and MRP1/Oatp1 in mediating T4 transfer. The presence of a carrier-mediated transport mechanism for cellular uptake on the basolateral membrane of the CP, mainly P-gp and Oatp2, would account for the efficient T4 transport from blood to CSF. The current study highlights a carrier-mediated transport mechanism for T4 movement from blood to brain at the basolateral side of B-CSF-B/CP, as an alternative route to BBB.

Diagnostic importance of selected Cerebrospinal Fluid parameters listeriosis, coenurosis and oesterosis in sheep

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic significance of selected cellular and biochemical parameters in cerebrospinal fluid of sheep with listeriosis, coenurosis and oestrosis. A total of 25 ewes were examined, 10 with listeriosis, 5 with coenurosis, 5 with oestrosis, and 5 healthy. Cerebrospinal fluid (CPS) was collected from each ewe under investigation and examined for cellular and biochemical parameters. Polymorphonuclear cells differed significantly in listeria infected sheep than other infections (p < 0.05). However, a significant variation of total nucleated cell count and mononuclear cell among animal groups (P < 0.05). creatinine kinase, urea, crearinine and glucose ration differed significantly in listeria infected ewes when compared with coenurosis group. Malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were significantly higher in coenurosis group in comparison with listeriosis group (p < 0.05). However, Reduced glutathione, nitric oxide, Lysozyme and nterleukin-1β were significantly decreased (p < 0.5). The results of the present study indicate that analysis of cerebrospinal fluid is important for diagnosis of neurological disorders in sheep.

The effect of rumen ciliates on chitinolytic activity, chitin content and the number of fungal zoospores in the rumen fluid of sheep

ABSTRACTThe objective of this study was to investigate the effect of selected protozoa on the degradation and concentration of chitin and the numbers of fungal zoospores in the rumen fluid of sheep. Three adult ewes were fed a hay-concentrate diet, defaunated, then monofaunated with Entodinium caudatum or Diploplastron affine alone and refaunated with natural rumen fauna. The average density of the protozoa population varied from 6.1 · 104 (D. affine) to 42.2 · 104 cells/ml rumen fluid (natural rumen fauna). The inoculation of protozoa in the rumen of defaunated sheep increased the total activity of chitinolytic enzymes from 2.9 to 3.6 μmol N-acetylglucosamine/g dry matter (DM) of rumen fluid per min, the chitin concentration from 6.3 to 7.2 mg/g DM of rumen fluid and the number of fungal zoospores from 8.1 to 10.9 · 105 cells/ml rumen fluid. All examined indices showed diurnal variations. Ciliate population density was highest immediately prior to feeding and lowest at 4 h thereafter. The opposite effects were observed for the numbers of fungal zoospores, the chitin concentration and chitinolytic activity. Furthermore, it was found that chitin from zoospores may account for up to 95% of total microbial chitin in the rumen fluid of sheep. In summary, the examined ciliate species showed the ability of chitin degradation as well as a positive influence on the development of the ruminal fungal population.

Effect of inoculum source (Sheep or Goat) on in vitro gas production and rumen fermentation parameters of some fodder shrubs in northern Tunisia

In order to ensure nutritional characterization of some fodder shrubs and test the effect of inoculum source (sheep and goats) on their digestibility. Four shrubs “Acacia cyanophylla, Atriplex halimus, Opuntia ficus-indica. Var.inermis(cactus) and Medicago arborea” were tested in vitro by incubating them firstly into the rumen fluid of sheep then into goat’s inoculums. The evaluation included chemical composition, total gas production (CO2 and CH4), the prediction of organic matter digestibility (OMD), metabolizable energy (ME), the concentration of total volatile fatty acids (SCFA) and metering ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N). Ruminal fermentation of Opuntia ficus-indica and Medicago arborea have identified more total gas amonts than Atriplex halimus and Acacia cyanophylla. Digestibility of organic matter, metabolisable energy and the concentration of total volatil fatty acids were higher in the case of Opuntia ficus-indica compared to other shrubs. The lowest values were recorded in the Atriplex halimus. The concentration of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), it turned out that Opuntia ficus-indica is the food with less protein concentration (140 and 270.66 mmol/syringe) respectively for sheep and goats. In against part, the Medicago arborea is presented as a good protein source recording of ammonia nitrogen concentration (214.67 mmol/syringe) into the sheep’s rumen and (494.67 mmol/syringe) into the goats inoculum. The source of the inoculum showed a highly significant effect (p &gt; 0.05).

Inhibition of allergic airway responses by heparin derived oligosaccharides: identification of a tetrasaccharide sequence

BackgroundPrevious studies showed that heparin's anti-allergic activity is molecular weight dependent and resides in oligosaccharide fractions of <2500 daltons.ObjectiveTo investigate the structural sequence of heparin's anti-allergic domain, we used nitrous acid depolymerization of porcine heparin to prepare an oligosaccharide, and then fractionated it into disaccharide, tetrasaccharide, hexasaccharide, and octasaccharide fractions. The anti-allergic activity of each oligosaccharide fraction was tested in allergic sheep.MethodsAllergic sheep without (acute responder) and with late airway responses (LAR; dual responder) were challenged with Ascaris suum antigen with and without inhaled oligosaccharide pretreatment and the effects on specific lung resistance and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) to carbachol determined. Additional inflammatory cell recruitment studies were performed in immunized ovalbumin-challenged BALB/C mice with and without treatment.ResultsThe inhaled tetrasaccharide fraction was the minimal effective chain length to show anti-allergic activity. This fraction showed activity in both groups of sheep; it was also effective in inhibiting LAR and AHR, when administered after the antigen challenge. Tetrasaccharide failed to modify the bronchoconstrictor responses to airway smooth muscle agonists (histamine, carbachol and LTD4), and had no effect on antigen-induced histamine release in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in sheep. In mice, inhaled tetrasaccharide also attenuated the ovalbumin-induced peribronchial inflammatory response and eosinophil influx in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Chemical analysis identified the active structure to be a pentasulfated tetrasaccharide ([IdoU2S (1→4)GlcNS6S (1→4) IdoU2S (1→4) AMan-6S]) which lacked anti-coagulant activity.ConclusionsThese results demonstrate that heparin tetrasaccharide possesses potent anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties, and that the domains responsible for anti-allergic and anti-coagulant activity are distinctly different.

PP-056 Isolation and culturing of anaerobic fungi from rumen fluid of sheep in Iran

PP-056 Isolation and culturing of anaerobic fungi from rumen fluid of sheep in Iran

Lung function values in healthy children in the community: comparison between lung function and nutritional status

This study was undertaken to investigate antigenic characteristics of hydatid cyst fluid in sheep by SDS–PAGE method, to evaluate sensitivity and specificity of Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blot (EITB) assay for diagnosis of sheep hydatidosis, and to determine seroprevalance of hydatidosis in sheep population in Elazig, Turkey. SDS–PAGE analysis of hydatid cyst fluids indicated that 6 specific-protein bands were detected at molecular weights of 29, 45, 58, 68, 98 and 116 kDa. EITB analysis showed presence of 29, 38, 42, 58, 62, 68, 98, 116, 120, 150 and 205 kDa bands in positive sheep sera, while 38, 58, 62, 68, 116 and 205 kDa bands were detected in negative sheep sera. Therefore, it was concluded that the 116 kDa band was specific for diagnosis of sheep hydatid disease by EITB assay. Sensitivity and specificity of EITB assay were determined as 88% and 84%, respectively, whereas corresponding rates for ELISA were 60% and 94%, respectively. Sensitivity of ELISA was 47.3% in hepatic cysts, 60% in pulmonary cysts, 69.2% in hepato-pulmonar cysts. Sensitivity ratios of ELISA were 67.8%, 75%, and 38.4% for fertile, sterile, and under-growth cysts, respectively. Sensitivity of EITB was found 84.2% in hepatic cysts, 80% in pulmonary cysts, and 92.3% in hepato-pulmonar cysts. Corresponding ratios for sensitivity of EITB for fertile, sterile, calcified, and under growth cysts were 92.8%, 75%, 100%, and 84.6%, respectively. In addition, seroprevalance of hydatidosis in sheep was found as 62% by ELISA and 66.4% by EITB in Elazig, Turkey and seroprevalance increased by age.

Antibodies to mycobacterium paratuberculosis in intestinal fluids of sheep with Johne's disease (paratuberculosis).

Summary Intestinal contents of sheep suffering from Johne's disease with or without diarrhoea were tested for the presence of antibodies to and soluble antigens of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis. Six of eight sheep with diarrhoea had intestinal antibodies and soluble antigens were demonstrated in one of the animals. None of the five sheep with Johne's disease but no diarrhoea had intestinal antibodies. Thus, the reagents for an antigen-antibody reaction occur in the intestine of some paratuberculous sheep. It is therefore probable that an immune reaction might be associated with diarrhoea in some sheep with Johne's disease. Zusammenfassung Antikorper gegenuber Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in der Intestinalflussigkeit von Schafen mit Johnescher Krankheit (Paratuberkulose) Der Intestinalinhalt von Schafen mit Johnescher Krankheit mit oder ohne Durchfall wurde auf das Vorhandensein von Antikorpern gegenuber bzw. loslichem Antigen von Mycobacterium paratuberculosis untersucht. Sechs von acht Schafen mit Durchfall hatten intestinale Antikorper und losliches Antigen konnte bei einem der Tiere nachgewiesen werden. Keines der funf Schafe mit Johnescher Krankheit aber ohne Durchfall hatte intestinale Antikorper. Somit treten die Reagentien fur eine Antigen-Antikorper-Reaktion bei einigen paratuberculosen Schafen im Darmtrakt auf. Es ist deshalb wahrscheinlich, das eine Immunreaktion bei einigen Schafen mit Johnescher Krankheit mit Durchfall verbunden ist. Resume Anticorps contre Mycobacterium paratuberculosis dans le liquide intestinal du moutons atteints de paratuberculose On a recherche la presence d'anticorps et l'antigene soluble de Mycobacterium paratuberculosis dans le contenu intestinal de moutons atteints de paratuberculose avec ou sans diarrhee. Six moutons sur huit avec diarrhee ont presente des anticorps intestinaux et l'antigene soluble a ete mis en evidence chez un animal. Aucun des cinq moutons atteints de paratuberculose sans diarrhee n'a presente d'anticorps intestinaux. Les elements d'une reaction antigene-anticorps apparaissent chez quelques moutons paratuberculeux dans le tube digestif. Il est probable qu'une reaction immunologique soit liee chez quelques moutons a une paratuberculose avec diarrhee. Resumen Anticuerpos contra Mycobacterium paratuberculosis en el liquido intestinal de ovejas con enfermedad de Johne (paratuberculosis) Se examino el liquido intestinal de ovejas con enfermedad de Johne con diarrea y sin ella en cuanto a la presencia de anticuerpos contra Mycobacterium paratuberculosis resp. su antigeno soluble. Seis de ocho ovejas con diarrea tenian anticuerpos intestinales, pudiendose identificar antigeno soluble en uno de los animales. Pero ninguna de las cinco ovejas con enfermedad de Johne aunque sin diarrea tenia anticuerpos intestinales. Por lo tanto, los animales que reaccionan en una reaccion antigeno-anticuerpos aparecen en algunas ovejas paratuberculosas en el tracto intestinal. De aqui se deriva que tal vez sea probable el que la reaccion inmunologica este aunada a la diarrea en algunas ovejas con enfermedad de Johne.

발효 팽이버섯폐배지의 볏짚 대체 급여가 사료의 면양 체내 이용성 및 거세한우의 성장에 미치는 효과

본 연구는 팽이버섯 재배 후 폐기물로 방치되어온 팽이 버섯 폐 배지를 거세한우 사육용 조사료로의 사료적 가치를 규명하기 위해 반추위 누관이 장착된 면양 3두를 이용한 대사시험과 12개월령의 거세한우 24두를 이용하여 20개월령까지 8개월간 사양 실험을 실시하였다. 대사시험의 경우 시판 한우 비육 전기용 배합사료(70%)와 볏짚(30%, 건물 기준)을 급여하였으며(대조구, CON) 시험구의 경우 발효 팽이버섯 폐 배지(fermented spent mushroom compost, FSMC)를 대조구 볏짚 급여량의 30% (FSMC-30) 또는 60% (FSMC-60, 건물 기준) 수준으로 대치하여 급여하였다. 거세한우를 대상으로 한 사양시험 사료 역시 대사시험과 동일한 방법으로 제조된 발효 팽이버섯 폐 배지를 동일한 비율로 볏짚을 대치하여 급여하였다. 면양 반추위액의 pH는 발효팽이버섯 폐 배지가 포함된 시험사료(FSMC-30 및 FSMC-60)에 의한 영향을 받지 않았다. 반추위액의 암모니아의 농도는 사료 급여 후 3시간에서 볏짚의 60%를 FSMC로 대치하여 급여한 처리구(FSMC-60)에서 암모니아 농도가 가장 높았다(P<0.045). Acetate 조성비율은 사료 급여 후 1시간 및 3시간에서 볏짚대신 발효팽이버섯 폐 배지를 60% 대치 급여한 처리구(FSMC-60)에 비하여 볏짚을 급여한 대조구에서 더 높았다(P<0.001). 이와는 반대로 propionate 조성 비율은 모든 반추위액 채취 시간에 걸쳐 FSMC-60 처리구에서 가장 높은 것으로 나타났다(P<0.027~P<0.002). Butyrate의 경우 타 처리구에 비하여 볏짚대신 발효팽이버섯 폐 배지를 30% 대치 급여한 처리구(FSMC-30)에서 사료 급여 30분 전(P<0.031)과 급여 후 1시간(P<0.011) 및 6시간(P<0.039)에 높은 조성 비율을 보였다. Propionate에 대한 acetate의 비율(<TEX>$C_2/C_3$</TEX>)은 FSMC-60 처리구에서 가장 낮은 것으로 나타났다. 시험사료의 건물(EDDM), 조단백질(EDCP), 조지방(EDEE) 및 NDF(EDNDF) 유효 분해율은 볏짚에 대한 발효팽이버섯 폐 배지 대치에 의한 영향을 받지 않은 것으로 조사되었다. 조단백질(P<0.031)과 NDF (P<0.006)의 전장 소화율은 조사료로서 볏짚만을 급여한 처리구에서 높았지만 발효팽이버섯 폐 배지를 볏짚의 60% 수준으로 대치 급여한 처리구(FSMC-60)에서 가장 낮은 것으로 나타났다. 거세한우의 총 증체량 및 평균 일당증체량은 시험사료에 의한 영향을 받지 않았다. Metabolic trial with 3 fistulated sheep was conducted in a 3 <TEX>$\times$</TEX> 3 Latin square design and feeding trial with 24 Hanwoo steers in 12 month of age for 20 months was conducted to investigate the replacing effect of rice straw with fermented spent mushroom (Flammuliua velutipes) compost (FSMC) on fermentation characteristics, ruminal effective degradabilty and whole tract digestibility of nutrients in sheep, and to examine the growth performance of Hanwoo steers. Experimental diets for the metabolic trial with sheep were commercial concentrates and rice straw in the ratio of 70 : 30 (CON, DM basis). Same concentrate with 30% FSMC and 70% rice straw (FSMC-30) and 60% FSMC and 40% rice straw(FSMC-60). Diets for Hanwoo steers in three treatments were same as for metabolic trial in replacing ratio of rice straw with FSMC. pH of rumen fluid in sheep was not affected by FSMC. Ammonia-N content in the rumen fluid was highest in the sheep fed FSMC-60 at 3h (P<0.045). The CON diet increased (P<0.001) acetate proportion at 1h and 3h post feeding compared to FSMC-60 diet while propionate proportion was highest in the sheep fed FSMC-60 diet for all the sampling times (P<0.027~P<0.002). Increased proportion of butyrate was observed at 30 min prior to feeding (P<0.031), and 1h (P<0.011) and 6h(P<0.039) post feeding from sheep fed FSMC-30 diet compared to those from sheep fed other diets. Effective degradability in the rumen was not influenced by experimental diets. Whole tract digestibility of crude protein (P<0.031) and neutral detergent fiber (P<0.006) tended to be increased in the sheep fed CON diet while corresponding values were lowest in the sheep fed FSMC-60 diet. Total body weight gain of Hanwoo steers for 8 months was not different among diets, thus daily body gain was not influenced by the experimental diets.

Evaluation of Enzyme -Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and Western Blotting for the immunodiagnosis of hydatid diseases in Sheep and Goats

This study was undertaken to investigate antigenic characteristics of hydatid cyst fluid in sheep and goats by Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate-Poly Acrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and Western blotting for the diagnosis and determination of seroprevalence of hydatidosis in sheep and goats slaughtered in Kano Abattoir, Northern Nigeria. The SDS-PAGE analysis of sheep hydatid cyst fluids indicated that 8 specific-protein bands were detected at molecular weights of 16, 24, 36, 52, 66, 96, 118 and 150kDa while the goat purified HCF showed 4 specific protein bands of 45, 52, 100 and 118kDa. Western blot analysis showed the dorminant components of 12, 45, 50-75 and 100-160kDa in sheep and goats HCF. The most consistent demonstrable protein in Echinococcus granulosus occurred as a complex in the 52-62kDa region. Bands of 66,118 and 150kDa persisted among sera of infected animals. The sensitivity and specificity of ELISA were determined as 66% and 86% in sheep and 54% and 73% in goats. Where as corresponding rates for western blotting were determined as 71% and 65% in sheep and 69% and 72% in goats. Out of a total of 268 sera obtained from 130 goats and 136 sheep, 31(23.8%) goats and 50(36.2%) sheep were seropositive, higher prevalences were recorded among older sheep than goats.The study concludes that serology is a useful diagnostic tool for hydatidosis and underscores the need for such standard laboratory facilities in the educational and health sectors for establishing the status of hydatid disease in Nigeria. The work was carried out at the Department of food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Plymouth, Seale-Hayne Campus, United Kingdom. The work was carried out by support from the UNESCO-L'Oreal for women in science

Biochemical Changes in the Fertile and Sterile of Hydatid Cyst Fluid in Sheep

Introduction: Hydatid cyst involves vital organs such as, liver, lungs, spleen, kidneys and so on. Hydatidosis could be seen in many ruminants and accidentally in human. Hydatidosis causes impairment physiological functions. This disease disturbs the balance of biochemical compounds. Material and methods: Eighty five livers and lungs from sheep having Hydatid cysts were taken from Ghaem Abattoir. Five milliliters of Hydatid fluid was taken from each from fertile and sterile cyst. Protein, cholesterol, glucose, phosphate, calcium and enzymes like alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) have been measured by Autoanalyzer apparatus. Flamphotometry has been used for Na and K measurement. Results: The mean of biochemical compound such as, protein, cholesterol, glucose and enzymes like ALP, LDH, ALT and AST was different in the fertile and sterile cysts of lung and liver in sheep. The total protein, cholesterol, glucose and LDH, ALP, AST enzymes differed significantly between fertile and sterile in liver.The above mentioned compounds of lung except cholesterol and alanine aminotransferase also differed significantly between sterile and fertile cysts. Mineral elements such as, Na+, K+, Ca2+ were different in fertile and sterile cysts in accordance to their location. Na, K and Ca in fertile cyst of liver were higher than sterile cyst. Conclusion: These results lead us to this idea that ability of the wall of sterile and fertile is different and this could be used as a hypothesis for biochemical control of Hydatidosis.

In vitro studies of the metabolism of [14C]-n-alkanes using ruminal fluid of sheep as substrate

Whether the rumen microbes are able to synthesize and/or degrade long-chain alkanes in anaerobic conditions remains a question to be answered before these hydrocarbons can be confidently used as duodenal flow or rumen transit markers. In this context, an experiment in vitro was carried out to establish whether within a rumen liquor fermentation system, n-alkanes can be derived from de-waxed structures of the plant or from non-alkane wax components (long-chain fatty alcohols, long-chain fatty acids and esters), or may be metabolized by bacteria to other components or to shorter-chain hydrocarbons. Ryegrass was labelled with 14C in growth chambers under controlled conditions in order to use it as a substrate. The labelled material obtained was separated in three fractions: labelled alkanes, labelled de-waxed plant and labelled wax components without the alkanes. These fractions were used for three different incubations in vitro, which objectives were as follows: 1. To check whether rumen bacteria can synthesize alkanes from carbon structures other than waxes (e.g. sugars). 2. To verify whether rumen bacteria can metabolize the n-alkanes to other compounds. 3. To check whether rumen bacteria can synthesize n-alkanes from other carbon compounds from waxes. The results showed that there was neither bacterial synthesis nor metabolism of the n-alkanes in in vitro conditions.

Effect of different protein sources on the concentrations of small peptides in the rumen of sheep

The experiment was conducted to determine the effect of different protein sources on concentration of small peptides (Pro-Ala, Val-Val, Pro-Leu, Met-Met) in the rumen fluid of sheep. Four Inner Mongolia Sunite sheep fitted with permanent cannulas were used in a 4×4 Latin square design, and fed four different protein sources including soybean meal (SBM), casein (Casein), fish meal (FM) and corn gluten meal (CGM), respectively. The results showed that the concentration of Pro-Ala peaked in Casein, FM, CGM groups at 2 h after feeding, whereas the highest level was measured at 6 h after feeding in SBM group. Val-Val and Pro-Leu production were highest at 6 h after feeding Casein and CGM diets and 4 h after feeding SBM and FM diets, respectively. During 6 h after feeding the accumulative concentration of Pro-Ala (1.74 mg/l) and Pro-Leu (25.78 mg/l) in rumen was highest for the Casein diet. During the total sampling time, the highest amount of accumulated small peptides was measured for Pro-Leu, and lowest amount for Met-Met, which was independent of treatment groups. Experimental results proved that small peptides with N-terminal Pro and a hydrophobic structure could inhibit rumen degradation and may be available for post-ruminal absorption.

Dose-dependent transthyretin inhibition of T 4 uptake from cerebrospinal fluid in sheep

Transthyretin (TTR), synthesized by the choroid plexuses (CP) has an important role in transporting thyroxine from blood to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). However, the role of TTR on thyroxine transport from CSF to either blood or brain is not clear. By using the incubated isolated ovine brain tissues technique, we found the CP accumulated most 125I-T 4 compared to ventricular ependymal, frontal cortex or cerebellum. The accumulation was higher in the young CP than the old. There was dose-dependent inhibition by TTR on 125I-T 4 accumulation in the brain tissues, and kinetics of T 4 accumulation in presence of TTR was obtained by plotting a double reciprocal of B (bound) versus TTR concentration curve. The K D of 125I-T 4 binding to TTR was higher in the CP compared to other tissues, suggesting that CP competes with TTR for T 4 binding to a greater extent than the other tissues. Using the isolated perfused CP preparation, TTR significantly inhibited 125I-T 4 efflux across CP from the CSF to blood side. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was also able to inhibit 125I-T 4 accumulation in the incubated tissues, but required higher concentrations to reach the level of inhibition seen with TTR. In conclusion, this study found a significant role for CSF TTR in preventing T 4 loss to blood across the CP, and TTR inhibited both CP and selected brain tissue uptake in a dose-dependant manner. The physiological relevance of TTR may relate to preventing T 4 loss from CSF and encouraging redistribution of hormone around the brain in CSF.