Higher Total Protein Levels Research Articles

The Effects of Propolis and Bee Pollen Supplementation on Biochemical Blood Parameters of Broilers

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the effect of propolis and bee pollen on selected biochemical blood parameters in broiler chickens. This experimental study was conducted on 200 Ross 308 chickens of equally distributed sex, which were divided into five groups (a control group and four experimental groups). Throughout the whole study the control group of chickens was fed the control feed mixture while the feed mixture that was fed to the experimental groups of chickens contained additives (propolis and/or bee pollen, each supplemented separately or in combination in a certain proportion). The results obtained by this study are: significantly lower blood glucose, cholesterol and calcium levels (P < 0.001), as well as significantly lower triglycerides levels (P = 0.002), but also significantly higher sodium and chloride (P < 0.001), phosphorus (P = 0.004) and globulins levels (P = 0.027) in chickens of the experimental groups compared to the chickens of the control group on the 21st day of fattening. Furthermore, this study has found significantly lower blood glucose (P = 0.033) levels and significantly higher levels of total proteins and globulins (P = 0.003), as well as albumins (P = 0.040) in chickens of the experimental groups compared to the chickens of the control group on the 42nd day of fattening. It can be concluded that the application of propolis and bee pollen as additives in broiler feeds enables the production of more vital and healthier animals, which significantly improves the fattening of chickens.

Influence of a prepared diet and a macroalga (Ulva sp.) on the growth, nutritional and sensory qualities of gonads of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus

This study evaluated the growth of the purple sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus, fed with two diets, in sea- and land-based systems compared to wild populations. The experiments investigated the effects of the feeding regimes on gonad yield, nutritional traits and overall quality. Sea-based trials were performed by the CNR of Taranto (Trial S), whereas land-based trials were performed in the facilities of the University of Cagliari (Trial L). Urchins fed with a laboratory prepared pelletized diet (P), and a mix diet PU (50% of P-Diet and 50% of fresh Ulva sp.) were compared to wild urchins (W). In both trials the experimental diets supported a gonad growth when compared to wild population (p < .05). Sensory characteristics, assessed by 6 panel experts for each trial, highlighted significant differences in gonad colour and taste in both trials, while only in Trial S for texture (p < .05). The changes in the biochemical composition of sea urchins' gonads caused significant variations in the nutritional profile. Sea urchins fed with the experimental diets contained higher levels of total protein and lipids and PUFAs than wild sea urchins, although EPA, DHA and n-3/n-6 ratio, were lower in urchins fed with artificial diets. In Trial L, total free amino acids showed an increase respect to W gonads (p < .05), whereas in Trial S, total free amino acids showed a decrease only in sea urchin fed with P-Diet (p < .05). The results presented in this study provide evidence of the good performance of the formulated diet assuming its application for the development of Mediterranean echinoculture.

Reproductive qualities, exterior features and the quality of the pery of obroshinsky gray geese at their dissolution «inside»

It was found that the average live weight of geese at the beginning of the oviposition was (OS – 3% X OS – 3%): goose – 6.10 kg, goose – 7.30 kg, and (OS – 5% X OS – 5♂): goose – 6,30 kg, goose – 7,37 kg. The average weight of OS–3 goose was 39.5 eggs per head, and OS–5 – 41.4 eggs. At the same time, the average weight of eggs in the 1st group was 154.3 g, and in II – 158.5 g. The indexes of the forms in the I group consisted of: the length of the egg – 84.4 mm, the width – 55.4 mm, the index of form 65.6 in the second group respectively – 84.3 mm; 56.3 mm; 66.7 mm. The study of the incubation qualities of eggs indicates that the higher fertility was in the goose of the second group and amounted to 85.3%, which is 0.9% more compared with the I group. It is known that the yield of caterpillars is dependent on fertility and in the 1st group this indicator was 71.8%, which is 4.3% less than in the second group (76.1%). At 9 weeks of age, males of the II group surpassed their peers from the 1st group by chest covering 1.79%., With a body length of 2.08%, and a kilo length of 7.14%. The same tendency was observed in the shoots of the shin and plyusny, so the males of group ІІ in the first indicator dominated the male and group I by 8,19%; in the second indicator males of the II group dominated the males of the I group by 6.68%. At 9 weeks of age, females of group ІІ grouped over their breasts over their peers from the 1st group by 2.40%, with the body length by 3.21%., With the length of the keel – by 2.34%. Length of the leg and shoulders in the females of the 2nd group were the largest and dominated by females and groups I by the first indicator at 5.26%; in the second indicator, females of the second group dominated the females of the I group by 1.08%. Males at all investigated periods had higher levels of total protein in serum than females. It was found that males at all investigated periods had higher levels of total protein in serum than females. Performance indicators of Ohorin gray geese (Group I) consisted of: carcass weight – 39.5 pc. on the head; the weight of eggs – 154.3 g; fertility – 84.4%; deductibility – 71.8%; the live weight of geese in the 9-week-old age is 4.52 kg males and 3.84 kg females; preservation – 90.7%. Obroshinsky gray goose (group II) are characterized by the highest indexes in relation to the first group: for fertility by 4.8%, fertility by 0.9%, output by 4.9%, live weight of geese at 9 weeks of age (males) – 1.99%, (females) by 0.52%, preservation – 2.90%, egg mass – 2.64%. The highest feather-down raw material was obtained at the age of 18 in geese I group. The basic indices of blood of the examined geese were within the acceptable limits of the norm.

Biochemical and Physiological Characteristics of Photosynthesis in Plants of Two Calathea Species.

Plants of the genus Calathea possess many leaf colors, and they are economically important because they are widely used as ornamentals for interior landscaping. Physiological performances and photosynthetic capacities of C. insignis and C. makoyana were investigated. The photosynthetic efficiencies of C. insignis and C. makoyana were significantly increased when the photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) increased from 0 to 600 μmol photons·m−2·s−1 and became saturated with a further increase in the PPFD. The two Calathea species had lower values of both the light saturation point and maximal photosynthetic rate, which indicated that they are shade plants. No significant differences in predawn Fv/Fm values (close to 0.8) were observed between dark-green (DG) and light-green (LG) leaf sectors in all tested leaves. However, the effective quantum yield of photosystem II largely decreased as the PPFD increased. An increase in the apparent photosynthetic electron transport rate was observed in both species to a maximum at 600 μmol·m−2·s−1 PPFD, following by a decrease to 1500 μmol·m−2·s−1 PPFD. Compared to LG leaf extracts, DG leaf extracts contained higher levels of chlorophyll (Chl) a, Chl b, Chls a + b, carotenoids (Cars), anthocyanins (Ants), flavonoids (Flas), and polyphenols (PPs) in all plants, except for the Ant, Fla and PP contents of C. insignis plants. Calathea insignis also contained significantly higher levels of total protein than did C. makoyana. The adjusted normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), photochemical reflectance index (PRI), red-green, and flavonol index (FlavI) were significantly correlated to leaf Chls a + b, Cars, Ants, and Flas in C. makoyana, respectively, and can be used as indicators to characterize the physiology of these plants.

Variability in Some Biochemical and Nutritional Characteristics in Desi and Turkish Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Types

Chickpea ( Cicer arietinum L.), the third most widely produced food legume in all over the world, is consumed for its protein-rich seeds especially in developing countries. According to seed morphology, cultivated chickpeas are of two types as desi and kabuli. There is a growing interest if extracts obtained from chickpea grains might be used as a source of natural antioxidants and antimicrobials such as phenolic or flavonoid compounds. The objective of this work is to investigate the total phenolic, flavonoid and protein contents of a desi (ICC 3996) type and three kabuli (Seçkin, İnci and Hasanbey) types of chickpea seeds. Analyses were performed in extracts of 24 hours imbibed grains. The Folin Ciocalteu procedure was used to assess the total phenolic amounts while the total flavonoid content was measured with an aluminium chloride colorimetric assay. Total protein concentration was determined according to the Biuret method. Desi type exhibited the lowest protein content whereas İnci had the highest levels of total protein among kabuli types. Total phenolic content of desi type was significantly higher than other genotypes ( P ≤0.05). Seçkin showed lower flavonoid content than all other genotypes including the desi type. The results revealed that despite Turkish genotypes were richer in protein level, desi type was still valuable for its high total phenolic and flavonoid amounts.

Supplementation with seminal plasma and relationship of its components with the quality of frozen-thawed semen of donkeys (Equus asinus)

El objetivo fue evaluar la suplementación con plasma seminal y la relación existente entre algunos de sus componentes, con la calidad del semen congelado-descongelado de asnos (Equus asinus). El semen de cinco asnos criollos colombianos se colectó por el método de la vagina artificial. A partir de una fracción de cada eyaculado se separó el plasma seminal por centrifugación y se evaluó su contenido de vitamina C (VC), vitamina E (VE), proteínas totales (PT) y perfil lipídico (PL). La criopreservación del semen se realizó por congelación convencional en un diluyente suplementado con 20 % de plasma seminal. Se evaluó la movilidad, la integridad estructural de membrana (IEM), la morfología anormal (MA) y la integridad funcional de membrana (HOS) de los espermatozoides, mediante el sistema computarizado SCA®, el ensayo fluorescente SYBR14/IP, la tinción con eosina-nigrosina y la prueba hipoosmótica, respectivamente. Se ajustaron modelos mixtos y se realizó un análisis de correlación de Pearson entre los componentes del plasma seminal y la calidad espermática. Se encontró que un nivel alto de VC, VE, PT y ácido esteárico (C18:0) tuvo un efecto deletéreo sobre la calidad del semen criopreservado (P≤0.05). Mientras que un nivel bajo de PT y C18:0, y un nivel medio de VE y VC presentaron resultados post-descongelación superiores para la movilidad y la integridad de membrana (P≤0.05). Se hallaron coeficientes de correlación negativos de VC, VE, PT y C18:0 con diferentes parámetros de calidad seminal post-descongelación. Se concluye que la composición del plasma seminal suplementado para la congelación de semen de asno, influye en la calidad espermática post-descongelación.

Selectivity and localization of lysozyme uptake in contemporary hydrogel contact lens materials

The purpose of this study was to investigate the early and selective uptake of lysozyme and the location of deposited lysozyme on contemporary hydrogel contact lens (CL) materials after exposure to an artificial tear solution (ATS) for 16 h. Seven different hydrogel CL materials [polymacon, omafilcon A, nelfilcon A, nesofilcon A, ocufilcon B, etafilcon A (Acuvue Moist), and etafilcon A (Acuvue Define)] were incubated in an ATS for various times. Total protein deposition was determined using a modified Bradford technique. Lysozyme, lactoferrin, and albumin deposition on CLs were determined using 125I-radiolabeling method. A confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) technique was utilized to map the location of lysozyme uptake in an asymmetric environment. All lens materials had significant amounts of lysozyme after 1 min of exposure to ATS. After 16 h of incubation, higher levels of total protein deposited on the two etafilcon A-based lenses (Moist and Define), followed by ocufilcon B and both were significantly higher than all other CLs tested (p = 0.0001). The two etafilcon A materials (Moist and Define) also deposited the highest amounts of lysozyme (514.8 ± 28.4 and 527.1 ± 14.7 μg/lens respectively) when compared to other test CLs (p = 0.0001). The CLSM technique revealed that the non-ionic CLs tended to have symmetric distribution of lysozyme throughout the lens materials, while the ionic CLs had an asymmetric distribution, with the highest concentration of lysozyme on and near the exposed surface. The quantity and nature of proteins deposited on CLs varies, depending upon the chemical composition of the material. Among the various lenses tested, etafilcon A deposited the highest amount of total protein, most of it represented by lysozyme, which was largely located near the surface of the lens.

Blood metabolic profile of goat kids fed a diet supplemented with alfalfa protein-xanthophyll (PX) concentrate during rearing with their dams

The research objective was to assess the effect of dietary supplementation with alfalfa protein-xanthophyll (PX) concentrate on haematological and biochemical parameters of the blood of goat kids. The study was conducted on 82 goat kids of the Saanen breed, reared with their dams. From 30 days of age the experimental group of kids (41 goats) received a feed mixture supplemented with 3% protein-xanthophyll PX concentrate, while the control was fed a standard, unsupplemented diet. Prior to the start of the experiment (29 days of age) and after its completion (121 days), blood was collected from the kids to determine haematological and biochemical indices. The results and their analysis indicate that inclusion of 3% alfalfa protein-xanthophyll (PX) concentrate in the kids’ diet positively affected the haematological and biochemical parameters of the blood. A higher level of erythrocytes, haemoglobin and haematocrit was noted, together with a decrease in the lymphocyte and monocyte count. The blood of goat kids receiving the PX concentrate-supplemented diet had significantly reduced content of total cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as low-density lipoproteins (LDL). The blood of the experimental kids showed a significantly higher level of total protein and urea. The alfalfa concentrate significantly diminished the activity of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases. Protein-xanthophyll (PX) concentrate of alfalfa can be used as a phytobiotic providing an excellent source of protein, vitamins and minerals essential for the proper function of the animal organism.

Release kinetics and mitogenic capacity of collagen barrier membranes supplemented with secretome of activated platelets - the in vitro response of fibroblasts of the periodontal ligament and the gingiva

BackgroundPlatelet preparations can stimulate the healing process and have mitogenic properties. We hypothesized that collagen barrier membranes (CBM), clinically used in guided bone regeneration and guided tissue regeneration, can serve as carriers for platelet secretome.MethodsSecretome was generated from washed platelets and unwashed platelets (washed/unwashed PSEC) and lyophilized onto CBM. Overall appearance of CBM was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. The impact of PSEC on cell attachment was measured based on fluorescence microscopy with DiI-labeled cells. To assess the release kinetics, supernatants of CBM were collected and medium was replaced at hour 1–48. The mitogenic effect was evaluated with periodontal fibroblasts. Furthermore, the release of total protein, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB, and transforming growth factor (TGF) β1 was measured.ResultsCBM overall appearance and cell attachment was not modulated by PSEC. Supernatants taken after one hour induced a mitogenic response in fibroblasts and showed the highest levels of total protein, TGFβ1 and PDGF-BB. These effects decreased rapidly in subsequent supernatants. While supernatants of CBM loaded with unwashed PSEC induced a stronger mitogenic response than supernatants of CBM loaded with washed PSEC this difference between the PSEC preparations was not observed when cells were seeded on 48–hours-washed CBM.ConclusionsCBM release platelet-derived factors in continuously declining release kinetics.

The Role of Fetuin-A and Electrolytes in the Etiology of Sialolithiasis.

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate serum and saliva fetuin-A, protein, and electrolyte levels in patients with sialolithiasis. Study Design Prospective randomized controlled study. Setting Tertiary center. Subjects and Methods Twenty patients with recurrent sialadenitis secondary to submandibular salivary gland stones and 20 asymptomatic healthy volunteers without salivary gland stones were included in the study. Bimanual palpation and ultrasonography were performed in the patient and control groups. The electrolyte, protein, and fetuin-A levels of the serum and saliva were measured. Results The serum calcium, phosphorus, and potassium levels of the patients were significantly lower than those of the control group (respectively, P = .04, P = .01, P = .04). There was no statistically significant difference between the serum fetuin-A levels of the 2 groups ( P = .06). The saliva phosphorus values of the patients were higher than those of the control group ( P = .05), as were their saliva fetuin-A and total protein values ( P = .001, P = .01). A positive correlation was determined between the saliva fetuin-A levels and the saliva phosphorus and potassium levels of the patients ( P = .04, P = .02). The magnesium level, which has been argued to be a factor in the prevention of calcification, showed an increased correlation with the total protein in the patient group ( P = .02). Conclusion It is possible that the high levels of saliva fetuin-A, total protein, and phosphorus with insufficient of saliva magnesium levels may make a contribution to the formation of sialoliths.

Вплив клозаверму А та катозалу на показники протеїнсинтезувальної функції печінки корів за експериментального фасціольозу, сенсибілізованих атиповими мікобактеріями

The article contains the results of research the impact of Fasciolosis and mycobacteriosis,the indicators of protein synthesizing function of cows liver. Fasciola and mycobacteria inhibit protein synthesizing function of liver, as indicated by the reduction in their blood level of total protein and albumin fraction. The data indicate hepatotropic of the toxin F. Hepatica and mycobacteria, because namely liver serves as a support of dynamic substances equilibrium of blood plasma. Increasing the level of globulin in the blood serum of cows by association of fasciolosis and mycobacteriosis reflects the intensity of inflammatory processes in animal organism caused by infection of these diseases.Application of closaverm A and catosal to research cows promotes restoration protein synthesizing function of liver. It was found that after application to cows from the first research group for the treatment of closaverm A by 14 and 21 days of level of total protein in the blood serum was gradually increased, but did not reach physiological values. Applying both closaverm A and catosal, was set a slightly higher level of total protein, that at the 28th day of the experiment reached physiological values and therefore amounted to 70.30 ± 1.5 g/l. For the study the level of albumin in the blood of research group, which were used drugs combined, was set its increase already from 7 day of experiment. Significant increase of albumin level in the blood of experimental animals is seeing on the 14th day of the experiment, where appropriate it was within 41.90 ± 1.5 g/l. On the 28th day of the experiment the levels of globulin in the blood of experimental group of animals, which were used closaverm A and catosal, was lower by 11% compared to the control group of animals in specified period of the experiment.Cows treated with closaverm A, value of the coefficient A/T was gradually returned to normal. However, at the 28th day of the experiment has remained at 16% less than the initial values, taken before infestation. Application of closaverm A and catosal to experimental animals contributed to increasing the coefficient of A/T. So at 21st and 28th days of the experiment it was higher than in the control group of cows at 60 and 46%.

Consequences of High-Density Fish Culture as Monitored By Growth, Behavior and Immune Responses of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

An experiment was performed in a twelve weeks period at three varied stocking densities: low density (LD, 100 fish m-3), medium density (MD, 200 fish m-3) and high density (HD, 400 fish m-3) to analyze the biological performances and ingestive behaviour, of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and Lately, fish were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila to evaluate the cumulative mortality (%). Stocking density had no effect on survival rate, the final weight markedly reduced with increased density, ingestive behaviour was higher in fish reared in MD than fish reared in LD, however, fish at HD have a higher feed intake (%) and feed conversion ratio. Fish at LD showed marked higher levels of total protein, albumin and globulin compared with those reared at HD. plasma glucose and cortisol levels were high in HD contrast to LD and MD groups. LD fish had higher RBCs and WBCs parallel to MD and HD. similarly, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and monocytes (%) decreased with increasing density. In addition, Serum antioxidant and lysozyme enzymes were considerably (P

Dietary alpha-ketoglutarate promotes higher protein and lower triacylglyceride levels and induces oxidative stress in larvae and young adults but not in middle-aged Drosophila melanogaster

Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is involved in multiple metabolic and regulatory pathways. In this work, the effects of AKG-supplemented diets on selected physiological responses and metabolic processes, including metabolism of reactive oxygen species, was assessed in larvae and adult (both 2 and 24days old) Drosophila melanogaster. Dietary supplementation with AKG resulted in dose-dependent effects on larval development, body composition and antioxidant status of third instar larvae. Larvae and young (2days post-eclosion) adult females fed on AKG shared similar metabolic changes such as higher total protein levels, lower triacylglyceride levels and higher values for oxidative stress indices, namely lipid peroxides and low molecular mass thiols. The latter indicated the development of oxidative stress which, in turn, may induce adaptive responses that can explain the higher resistance of AKG-fed young females to heat shock and hydrogen peroxide exposure. In contrast to young flies, middle-aged females (24days) on AKG-containing diet possessed higher total protein, glucose and triacylglyceride levels, whereas oxidative stress parameters were virtually the same as compared with control females of the same age. In parallel, females fed an AKG-supplemented diet showed lower fecundity, higher heat shock resistance but no change in oxidative stress resistance at middle age which in combination with levels of protein, glucose, and triacylglycerides can be considered as potentially beneficial AKG effects for aging organisms. To our best knowledge, this is the first study on age-matched AKG influence on animals' organism which shows that Drosophila may be used as a model for previous quick study in cost-efficient manner age-related AKG effects in mammals and humans.

Multivariate analysis and molecular interaction of curcumin with PPARγ in high fructose diet induced insulin resistance in rats.

To investigate the effect of curcumin on the multivariate and docking analysis on peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-γ, the rats were fed with high fructose diet (Group 2) to induce insulin resistance and curcumin was co-administered orally (Group 4) for a period of 8 weeks and measured the biochemical parameters in blood, kidney and liver tissues. The results showed a significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase in the level of creatinine, glucose, insulin, low density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, triglyceride, urea, uric acid, very low density lipoprotein and decreased albumin, high density lipoprotein and total protein level in the blood of Group 2 when compared with Group 1 control rats. Further, analysis on liver and kidney tissues showed a significant decrease in antioxidants, hexokinase and increased glucose 6-phosphatase and fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase, hydroperoxides and TBARS in Group 2 rats. Furthermore, the multivariate and loading coefficient analysis showed that albumin, HDL, catalase, glutathione reductase, hexokinase and vitamin E are the most contributing factors in blood, liver and kidney. Subsequently, molecular docking was carried out to determine the binding efficiency of curcumin as agonist of PPARγ showed high affinity compared to pioglitazone. The histology of liver and kidney were also studied and the administration of curcumin along with fructose protects the organs from the abnormal changes and also prevents the fat accumulation. Overall, these results demonstrate the preventive role of curcumin on diet induced insulin resistant in rats by ameliorating the altered levels of metabolic changes and potential binding of curcumin with PPARγ as agonist in the treatment of insulin resistance.

Risk assessment for changes in the metabolic profile and body weights of pre-pubertal gilts during long-term monotonic exposure to low doses of zearalenone (ZEN)

The aim of the study was to examine whether the process of exposure to low doses of ZEN generates changes in the hematological and biochemical image of blood serum. During the experiment, pre-pubertal gilts (up to 25kg) were administered per os ZEN at a dose of 40μg/kg BW (Group E, n=18) or placebo (Group C, n=21) on a daily basis for 42days. Blood samples for investigation were collected seven times at intervals of one week. In the experimental groups, slight but statistically significant changes in the values of selected biochemical blood indices such as glucose, ALT, Pin, total protein and Fe, or in hematological indices such as RBC, MCV, PLT, WBC, basophils, eosinophils and monocytes were observed. Based on statistical analysis between the groups, differences in the values of WBC, basophils, peroxidase negative cells, Hb, Ht, MCV, HDW, glucose, ALT, AP, total protein, iron or potassium were found. In Group E, decreasing trends in the values of PLT and glucose, and increasing trends in the values of total protein, Pin, Na and Cl were found. The described situations occurred during the last three weeks of exposure. Low levels of exposure to ZEN lead to completely different changes in the metabolic profile than those resulting from higher doses of the toxin. The stimulatory effect of mycotoxins, observed in initial stages of exposure, is eliminated when the compensatory response and adaptive mechanisms are triggered, and due to excessive loss of energy, which may point to more efficient feed utilization and/or detoxification processes. The values of body weight gain obtained in Group E were monotonically higher in four out of the six investigated weeks of exposure. The above changes were accompanied by a decrease in glucose concentrations and higher total protein levels (a rising tendency), which could have affected the rate of body weight gain.

Hematological and Serum Biochemical Abnormalities Associated with a Suspected Case of Genital Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a Gray Nigerian Mare

An 18-year-old gray mare (a crossbred Nigerian horse) was observed to have a proliferative tissue growth with multiple necrotic areas, which was suspected to be a genital squamous cell carcinoma. The mucous membrane of the eyes and gingiva of the mare were pale, and the animal was dull and insensitive, had an abnormal posture and gait, with conspicuous protruding proliferative tissue mass around the vagina and vulva. Blood samples for hematology analysis and serum biochemistry were collected from the jugular vein and determinations followed standard procedures. Hematological examination revealed that the mare had macrocytic anaemia, leukocytosis, neutrophilia, monocytosis, higher than normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Serum biochemical assays showed that serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were slightly lower than normal. High serum alkaline phosphatase activity was recorded, with high serum total protein level that was mainly due to high serum globulin level. The mare also had a lower than normal total cholesterol. High serum creatinine level was observed. These hematological and serum biochemical findings are commonly associated with genital squamous cell carcinomas in animals and humans.

The effects of Natucin C-Natucin P mixture on blood biochemical parameters, antioxidant activity and non-specific immune responses in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus).

Natucin C (NC) and Natucin P (NP) are two kinds of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). In the present study, the effects of NC-NP mixture on a tilapia species (Oreochromis niloticus) were examined. Animals were fed with either a control diet or one of five AMP-supplemented diets for eight weeks. AMP-supplemented diets contained five increasing levels of NP from G1 to G5 and one level of NC (200mg/kg). Results showed that fish in the G3, G4 and G5 groups had significantly higher levels of total protein (TP), albumin (ALB) and globulin (GLO) in serum than fish in the control group. Fish fed with G4 and G5 diets exhibited significantly higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels compared to the control fish. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels in all AMP-supplemented groups were significantly lower than the control. In addition, the total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) and lysozyme (LZM) activities were significantly increased in fish fed with the G3 and G4 diets, respectively compared to the control. The serum malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in fish fed with AMP-supplemented diets were significantly decreased compared to those not supplemented with AMPs. Furthermore, the mRNA expressions of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β), gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in the hepatopancreas, spleen, kidney and gill were measured. Overall, the expression levels were enhanced in an NP dose-dependent and tissue-specific manner. The expressions of four genes in four organs (except IL-1β in spleen, and TNF-α and HSP70 in gill) were significantly upregulated in fish fed with the G5 diet. Fish fed with the G4 diet had increased expression levels of IL-1β in spleen and IFN-γ in kidney. The relative expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and HSP70 in the hepatopancreas in fish fed with the G3 diet were significantly upregulated compared to the control. Transcriptional levels of IL-1β and HSP70 in the hepatopancreas, IFN-γ and HSP70 in the kidney and IL-1β in the gills of fish fed with the G2 diet were upregulated. Taken together, our results indicated that the NC-NP mixture can enhance the antioxidant capacity and innate immune ability of O. niloticus, indicating that this mixture might be a potential alternative to antibiotics when used as a feed additive.

Effects of different levels of dietary folic acid on the growth performance, muscle composition, immune response and antioxidant capacity of freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii

A 12-week feeding trial was conducted to determine the effects of dietary supplementation with folic acid on growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, muscle composition, immune response, antioxidant ability and enzyme activity of freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii. The experimental basal diets were supplemented with folic acid at the rates of 0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, 8.0mg/kg dry feed weight. The as-supplemented folic acid was fed in M. rosenbergii for a period of 90days. The experimental study demonstrated that final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate and feed conversion ratio significantly (P<0.05) increased with an increasing dietary folic acid level of up to 0.5–2.0mg/kg. However, the prawns fed with above 4.0–8.0mg/kg showed poor performance. Addition, prawns fed with 0.5–2.0mg/kg of folic acid supplemented diets achieved significant (P<0.05) improvement in growth performance, digestive enzyme activities, and muscle biochemical compositions, while, the prawns fed with 2.0mg/kg of folic acid showed enhanced performance respectively. Prawn fed on diet supplemented with 2.0mg/kg of folic acid showed significantly (P<0.05) higher total protein level. The antioxidants enzymatic activity (SOD, CAT) metabolic enzymes status in muscle showed no significant (P>0.05) alterations in prawns fed with 0.5–2.0mg/kg of folic acid supplemented diets. Therefore, the present study proposed that 2.0mg/kg of folic acid could be supplemented for flexible enhanced survival; growth, antioxidant defense system and production of M. rosenbergii. Statement of relevanceVitamins are considered as low molecular weight organic compounds that are required in small amounts for the maintenance of metabolism, normal growth and health of fish. Folic acid is a form of water-soluble vitamin B9, which is important in amino acid and nucleotide metabolism, growth and health of most aquatic animals. The crustacean, giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii is a major species by yielding high fecundity, rapid growth, wide range of salinity and possessing unique characters such as temperature tolerance, disease resistance as well as its superior taste and high commercial value etc. The global production of M. rosenbergii has increased from 130,689tons in 2000 to 203,211tons in 2011. There is also representing good nutritional source of proteins, essential amino acids, poly-unsaturated fatty acids and low in fat. Therefore, it can be used as a delicious healthy choice of food for human consumptions. There are many researches about its nutritional requirements, but limited information was published concerning the vitamin requirement and nutritional function. Furthermore, there is no information about antioxidant effect and serum biochemistry parameters of folic acid on M. rosenbergii, which are important factors affecting prawn's health. In view of this knowledge, in the current study was hypothesized that the efficiency of dietary folic acid supplemented and its effect were further assessed on survival, growth, activities of digestive enzymes, muscle biochemical compositions, carcass mineral contents, activities of antioxidant and activities of metabolic enzymes of freshwater prawn M. rosenbergii.

Effect of different levels dietary vitamin C on growth performance, muscle composition, antioxidant and enzyme activity of freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium malcolmsonii

In the present study was conducted to examine the effects and interactions of dietary vitamin C levels on the growth performance, antioxidant ability, muscle composition and enzyme activity in freshwater prawn Macrobrachium malcolmsonii (M. malcolmsonii). Additional, the vitamins C was dietary supplemented for freshwater prawn M. malcolmsonii. The experimental basal diets were supplemented with M. malcolmsonii at the rates of 0 (control), 25, 50, 100, 200 and 400mg/kg dry feed weight. The as-supplemented vitamin C was fed in M. malcolmsonii for a period of 90 days. In the present investigation revealed that prawns fed with diet supplemented with 25–100mg/kg of vitamins C shows enhanced (P<0.05) growth performance, including final weight and weight gain (WG). No significant differences (P>0.05) in feed conversion ratio (FCR) were observed in prawn fed different diets. Addition, prawns fed with 25–100mg/kg of vitamins C supplemented diets achieved significant (P<0.05) improvement in growth performance, digestive enzyme activities, and muscle biochemical compositions, while, the prawns fed with 100mg/kg of vitamin C showed enhanced performance respectively. Prawn fed on diet supplemented with 100mg/kg of vitamin C showed significantly (P<0.05) higher total protein level. However, the prawns fed with above 200–400mg/kg showed poor performance. The antioxidants enzymatic activity (SOD, CAT) metabolic enzymes status in muscle showed no significant (P>0.05) alterations in prawns fed with 25–100mg/kg of vitamin C supplemented diets. Therefore, the present study proposed that 100mg/kg of vitamin C could be supplemented for flexible enhanced survival; growth, antioxidant defense system and production of M. malcolmsonii.

Dietary supplementation of green synthesized manganese-oxide nanoparticles and its effect on growth performance, muscle composition and digestive enzyme activities of the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii

The green synthesized Mn3O4 nanoparticles (manganese-oxide nanoparticles) using Ananas comosus (L.) peel extract was characterized by various techniques. HR-SEM photograph showed that manganese-oxide nanoparticles (Mn-oxide NPs) were spherical in shape, with an average size of 40–50nm. The Zeta potential revealed the surface charge of Mn-oxide NPs to be negative. Further, the Mn-oxide NPs were dietary supplemented for freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii. The experimental basal diets were supplemented with Mn-oxide NPs at the rates of 0 (control), 3.0, 6.0, 9.0, 12, 15 and 18mg/kg dry feed weight. The as-supplemented Mn-oxide NPs were fed in M. rosenbergii for a period of 90 days. The experimental study demonstrated that prawns fed with diet supplemented with 3–18mg Mn-oxide NPs/kg shows enhanced (P<0.05) growth performance, including final weight and weight gain (WG). Significant differences (P<0.05) in feed conversion ratio (FCR) were observed in prawn fed with different diets. Additionally, prawns fed with 3.0–18mg/kg Mn-oxide NPs supplemented diets achieved significant (P<0.05) improvement in growth performance, digestive enzyme activities and muscle biochemical compositions, while, the prawns fed with 16mg/kg of Mn-oxide NPs showed enhanced performance. Prawns fed on diet supplemented with 16mg/kg Mn-oxide NPs showed significantly (P<0.05) higher total protein level. The antioxidants enzymatic activity (SOD and CAT) metabolic enzymes status in muscle and hepatopancreas showed no significant (P>0.05) alterations in prawns fed with 3.0–18mg/kg of Mn-oxide NPs supplemented diets. Consequently, the present work proposed that 16mg/kg of Mn-oxide NPs could be supplemented for flexible enhanced survival, growth and production of M. rosenbergii. Therefore, the data of the present study recommend the addition of 16mg/kg of Mn-oxide NPs diet to developed prawn growth and antioxidant defense system.