Physiological Reference Values Research Articles

HEMPSEED CAKE IN RABBIT NUTRITION: LIVESTOCK PERFORMANCES, QUALITY OF MEAT, DIGESTIBILITY OF NUTRIENTS AND ANIMAL HEALTH STATUS

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of dried hempseed cake (by-product of oil production) supplementation (5 % − EG1 and 10 % − EG2) to rabbit feed mixture on livestock performances, quality of meat, digestibility of nutrients and animal health status. The chemical composition of the Longissimus thoracis and lumborum muscle including the content of fatty acids and amino acids, and the biochemical parameters in caecum and blood of growing rabbits were investigated. No significant differences among the experimental groups in feed intake, body weight and carcass parameters were found. The digestibility trial was performed using the balance method. Feed mixtures differed in digestible energy content i.e., crude protein, crude fibre and fat. The resulting digestibility coefficients for protein fell within the range of 66.72 − 74.18 %, fat digestibility was in the interval from 88.73 to 89.34 % and crude fibre digestibility was in the range from 27.56 to 34.59 %. Fatty acid profile in intramuscular lipids represents the highest content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA; 47.72 − 48.51 %), followed by the content of saturated acids (SFA; 33.75 − 33.87 %) and a low content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA; 11.23 − 12.08 %). Hempseed oil cake could be included in rabbits' diet with beneficial effect on carcass quality and can enhance the nutritional quality of rabbit meat with the focus on essential amino acids. The tested blood serum parameters were within the range of the physiological reference values with no statistical differences between experimental groups, except for glucose and cholesterol content. The data on volatile fatty acids (VFA) show that most intensive process was in the caecum of rabbits in the experimental groups EG1 and EG2. All obtained data let us to recommend the inclusion of hempseed cake up to 10 % in rabbit diet without any negative effect on animal welfare, livestock performance and quality of meat.

Comparison of Venous Blood Gas and Biochemical Parameters in Sunda Pangolin (Manis javanica) and Chinese Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) before and after Isoflurane Anesthesia

Venous blood gas analytes are commonly examined in animals, and the results may be important when evaluating the overall health status of an animal. Pangolins are critically endangered mammals, and there is limited information on their physiological reference values in the literature. The aim of this study was to analyze venous blood gas and biochemical parameters before and during isoflurane anesthesia in wild healthy Sunda and Chinese pangolins. The results obtained showed that the blood gas index trends of the two pangolin species before and after isoflurane anesthesia were the same. After anesthesia, the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2), partial pressure of oxygen (pO2), total carbon dioxide (CO2), mean blood bicarbonate (HCO3-), extracellular fluid compartment (BEecf) base excess and the mean blood glucose (Glu) levels of both pangolin species showed a significant increase compared to the pre-anesthesia period. In contrast, the mean blood potassium (K+), lactate (Lac) and mean blood pH levels were significantly lower. No significant differences in the mean blood sodium (Na+) or blood ionized calcium (iCa) levels were observed during anesthesia. This study is important for future comparisons and understanding the health status of this endangered species.

Physiological Femoral Condylar Morphology in Adult Knees-A MRI Study of 517 Patients.

In the age of individualised arthroplasty, the question arises whether currently available standard implants adequately consider femoral condylar morphology (FCM). Therefore, physiological reference values of FCM are needed. The aim was to establish physiological reference values for anterior (ACO) and posterior condylar offset (PCO) as well as for the length of the medial (LMC) and lateral femoral condyles (LLC). The knee joints of 517 patients (mean age: 52.3 years (±16.8)) were analysed retrospectively using MRI images. Medial (med) and lateral (lat) ACO and PCO, as well as LMC and LLC, were measured. All FCM parameters were examined for association with age, gender, side and osteoarthritis. Mean ACOmed was 2.8 mm (±2.5), mean ACOlat was 6.7 mm (±2.3), mean PCOmed was 25.7 mm (±4.6), mean PCOlat was 23.6 mm (±3.0), mean LMC was 63.7 mm (±5.0) and mean LLC was 64.4 mm (±5.0). Except for PCOmed, the mean values of all other FCM parameters were significantly higher in male knees compared to female knees. ACOmed and PCOmed showed significant side-specific differences. There were no significant differences in relation to age and osteoarthritis. The study showed significant differences in FCM side- and gender-specifically in adult knees. These aspects should be considered in the discussion of individual and gender-specific knee joint replacement.

Clinical physiological parameters of Holstein calves in the first month of life

In the postnatal period, neonatal adaptation in terms of cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, thermoregulatory, and immunological functions is required, thus demanding the establishment of baseline parameters for research on neonatal calves. Few longitudinal studies have presented a set of physiological reference values for neonatal calves. The objective of this study was to evaluate physical, haematological, and biochemical parameters in young Holstein heifers in order to obtain useful information on their neonatal adaptation. Twenty-eight healthy young Holstein heifers were assessed for the collection of blood samples by jugular venipuncture at the following time points: immediately after birth, and before colostrum intake (first day of life is D1), and D2, D7, D14 and D28 days of life. Two hours prior to morning milk feed, calves were sampled, after being physically examined to establish reference values for heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and rectal temperature (RT). Several changes in physical, haematological, and biochemical parameters, secondary to neonatal adaptation, were detected. The reduction in HR and RR over time represented the maturation of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, respectively, and the increase in RT represented the development of thermoregulatory mechanisms. Colostrum intake was reflected in several parameters, including immunoglobulin absorption and alteration of the serum protein profile. In addition, changes in glucose and cholesterol concentrations reflected the activation of the calf’s metabolism. Changes in white blood cell parameters, such as an increase in lymphocyte count and decrease in neutrophil count, were associated with maturation of the immune system and the influence of cortisol levels at parturition, respectively. Changes in the red blood cell count parameters could be attributed to the replacement of erythrocytes from the foetal circulation. Variations in the physiological parameters of calves were observed during the first month of life; it is necessary to compare them with established age-specific reference ranges for a better clinical interpretation.

Physiological Offset Parameters of the Adult Shoulder Joint-A MRI Study of 800 Patients.

Highlights 800 shoulder MRIs were retrospectively evaluated for humeral, glenoidal and latero-glenoidal humeral offset, as well as cortical and humeral shaft axis offset.Significantly higher values for all analysed offset parameters were found in male shoulder joints compared to female shoulder joints.Significant side-specific differences were found for humeral, glenoidal and latero-glenoidal humeral offset.A correlation of the offset parameters with age or the osteoarthritis grade exist only for cortical offset.These results should be considered in shoulder diagnostics and surgery. Background: Humeral offset (HO) and glenoidal offset (GO) are important morphological parameters in diagnostics and therapy for shoulder pathologies. However, physiological reference values have not yet been sufficiently determined. The aim of the present study was to establish physiological reference values for shoulder offset parameters (SOPs). Methods: MRI images of the shoulder joints of 800 patients (mean age: 50.13 years [±16.01]) were analysed retrospectively. HO, GO, lateral glenoidal humeral offset (LGHO), humeral shaft axis offset (HAO) and cortical offset (CO) were measured. SOPs were examined for associations with age, gender, side and osteoarthritis. Results: The mean HO was 26.19 (±2.70), the mean GO was 61.79 (±5.67), the mean LGHO was 54.49 (±4.69), the mean HAO was 28.17 (±2.82) and the mean CO was 16.70 (±3.08). For all SOPs, significantly higher values were measured in male shoulders. There was a significantly (p < 0.001) higher mean value for HO, GO and LGHO in right shoulders. There was a significant correlation between age and LGHO, and HAO and CO, but not between age and HO or GO. Shoulders with osteoarthritis and non-osteoarthritis did not differ in the mean value of HO, GO, LGHO and HAO, except for CO (p = 0.049). Conclusion: Reference values for SOPs in the adult shoulder joint were determined for the first time. Significant gender-specific differences were found for all measured SOPs. In addition, it was seen that for some SOPs, the joint side and the patient’s age has to be taken into account in shoulder diagnostics and surgery.

Shear wave elastography as a supplemental tool in the assessment of unsuspicious axillary lymph nodes in patients undergoing breast ultrasound examination.

To define reference values for shear wave elastography (SWE) in unsuspicious axillary lymph nodes in patients undergoing breast ultrasound examination. In total, 177 clinically and sonographically unsuspicious axillary lymph nodes were prospectively evaluated with SWE using Virtual Touch Tissue Imaging Quantification (VTIQ) in 175 women. Mean values of tissue stiffness for axillary fatty tissue, lymph node cortex, and lymph node hilus were measured. Additionally, test-retest reliability of SWE in the assessment of axillary lymph node stiffness was evaluated by repeating each measurement three times. In 177 axillary lymph nodes, the mean stiffness of lymph node cortex, hilus, and surrounding fatty tissue as quantified by SWE was 1.90 m/s (SD: 0.34 m/s), 2.02 m/s (SD: 0.37 m/s), and 1.75 m/s (SD: 0.38 m/s), respectively. The mean stiffness of cortex and hilus was significantly higher compared to fatty tissue (p < 0.0001). SWE demonstrated good test-retest reliability in the assessment of stiffness of the lymph node hilus, cortex, and the surrounding fatty tissue with an intraclass correlation of 0.79 (95% CI: 0.75; 0.83), 0.75 (95% CI: 0.70; 0.79), and 0.78 (95% CI: 0.74; 0.82), respectively, (p < 0.0001). Reference values for SWE in unsuspicious axillary lymph nodes are determined. These results may help to better identify axillary lymph node metastasis for breast cancer patients when combined with other lymph node features. SWE is a reliable method for the objective quantification of tissue stiffness of axillary lymph nodes. This study presents physiological reference values for tissue stiffness by examining the axillary lymph nodes with SWE in 175 women with sonomorphologically unsuspicious lymph nodes.

Study on Some Clinical Important Physiological and Hematological Reference Values for Indigenous Apparently Healthy Donkeys in Around Asella Town, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

In the tropical regions Donkeys are exposed to the effects of various environmental factors that alter their physiological and hematological values, which is particularly significant in working Donkeys. However, very little has been done to establish hematological and physiological reference values of local breeds of donkeys in Ethiopia. This study was aimed to determine hematological and physiological reference values for apparently healthy indigenous donkeys breeds in order to form a basis for clinical interpretation in and around Asella town of Oromia regional state, Ethiopia. The study was conducted from January to July 2021 by taking into account vital physiological parameters like body temperature, heart rate, and respiration rate from a total of 32 study animals. All appropriate records for physiological and blood samples for hematological analysis were collected from 32 donkeys. There was a statistically significant difference (P&lt;0.05) in the physiological heart and respiratory rates against the age of the study donkeys. However, there was no statistically significant (P&gt;0.05) difference in all hematological values of donkeys among sex groups. The mean values of body temperature obtained in this study were: young (37.12±.6.05 o C) and adult (37.55±0.58 o C) donkeys. Similarly, for female and male donkeys were 37.55±0.58 and 37.12 ±6.05 o C, respectively. The mean values of heart rate for young and adult donkeys were 46.93±5.31 and 38±3.98, respectively. The mean values of heart rate for female and male donkeys were 58.08±11.2 and 52.46±7.32, consecutively. The present study result should serve as a reference purpose after proper validation in the study animals and further studies in a various agro-climatic zone of the country, Ethiopia. Keywords: Age, Asella, donkeys, hematological, parameters, physiological, sex. DOI: 10.7176/ALST/94-02 Publication date: August 31 st 2022

Morphological Parameters of the Hip Joint and Its Relation to Gender, Joint Side and Age-A CT-Based Study.

Background: Physiological reference values for morphological parameters of the hip (MPH) are of clinical importance for the treatment of painful, degenerated or fractured hip joints, as well as to detect morphological deformities, which could result in early osteoarthritis of the hip. Currently, sufficient data for MPH are lacking. Therefore, it remains unclear if age-dependent alterations in adult hip morphology are physiological and if there are side- and gender-dependent differences. The aim of the study was to analyze MPH according to gender, side and age in a large-scaled cohort by CT scans. Methods: A total of 1576 hip joints from 788 patients (female: 257, male: 531; mean age: 58.3 years (±18.9; 18–92 years)) were analyzed by CT. For all hips, acetabular anteversion (AcetAV); lateral centrum edge angle (LCE); acetabular index (AI); femoral neck version (FNV); centrum-collum-diaphyseal angle (CCD); and anterior alpha angle (AαA) were measured. Results: The mean values in this cohort were: AcetAV 20.5° (±6.9); LCE 40.8° (±8.8); AI 0.3° (±5.3); FNV 11.0° (±9.8); CCD 129.9° (±7.4); and AαA 41.2° (±7.7). There was a detectable side-specific difference for AcetAV (p = 0.001); LCE (p < 0.001); CCD (p < 0.001); and AαA (p < 0.001). All the analyzed parameters showed a significant gender-specific difference, except for AI (p = 0.37). There was a significant correlation between age and AcetAV (r = 0.17; p < 0.001); LCE (r = 0.39; p < 0.001); AI (r = −0.25; p < 0.001); CCD (r = −0.15; p < 0.001); and AαA (r = 0.09; p < 0.001), except FNV (p = 0.79). Conclusions: There are side-, gender- and age-specific alterations in hip morphology, which have to be considered in treating hip joint pathologies.

Variation in blood count parameters of children aged 5 to 11 years in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire

Background: In Côte d’Ivoire, as in most developing countries, the reference values of hematological indices currently in use come from data collected from populations living in industrialized countries. The aim of this study was to determine variations in the child's blood count in Cote d'Ivoire.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study has focused on 310 children (172 girls and 138 boys) aged 5 to 11 years selected from three municipalities of Abidjan. Blood samples were taken from each child in order to assess the parameters of the blood count.&#x0D; Results: The results revealed that the means of the different hematological parameters (red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cells, neutrophils, eosinophils, monocyte, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration) were in accordance with the normal physiological reference values from the literature apart lymphocyte. The rate of lymphocytes (51.3 ± 0.5) was higher overall. All the parameters did not indicate significant differences between girls and boys (p &gt; 0.05) except mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin that were statistically different by sex (p &lt; 0.05). The percentage of having a rate of haemoglobin lower than 11.5 decreased significantly (p˂0.005) when the age increased. In addition, the rate of hemoglobin and hematocrit increased slightly starting from the age of 8 years. There is a significant difference (p &lt; 0.05) in hemoglobin level between girls and boys in the age group of 9 years. Leukopenia is observed in a minority of children in the age groups of 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10 years.&#x0D; Conclusion: Some hematological parameters were different from other data published in the literature, which suggested a local development of reference values for children.

Preventing Recurrent Preeclampsia by Tailored Treatment of Nonphysiologic Hemodynamic Adjustments to Pregnancy

Preeclampsia is often preceded by abnormal hemodynamic changes with heterogeneous patterns in the first half of pregnancy. We assessed the effect of timely tailored correction of nonphysiological hemodynamic changes on preventing preeclampsia in a high-risk population. Primiparous women with a history of preeclampsia were invited to participate in a longitudinal program in their next pregnancy, including repeated hemodynamic assessments at 12-, 16-, 20- and 30-week gestation additional to regular pregnancy checkups. When at least 2 of the hemodynamic variables were not within physiological reference values, the hemodynamic imbalance between cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance was counteracted with either labetalol, methyldopa, or nifedipine using a simple treatment algorithm. Normogram-guided women (n=157) were matched to 157 women receiving care as usual (power, 80%; α=0.05). Risk of recurrent preeclampsia was analyzed with logistic regression adjusted for daily low-dose aspirin or calcium supplementation. Hemodynamic changes were considered nonphysiological in 90% of women in the normogram-guided group. Twelve percent of these women developed recurrent preeclampsia compared with 22% in the care-as-usual group (adjusted odds ratio, 0.47 [95% CI, 0.25–0.88]). There were no differences between groups in gestational age at delivery (38 1 and 38 2 weeks in the normogram-guided and care-as-usual groups, respectively) and neonatal birth weight (3148 and 3180 g in the normogram-guided and care-as-usual groups, respectively). Tailored circulatory normalization of nonphysiological hemodynamic changes during pregnancy halves the risk of recurrent preeclampsia, without disadvantageous effects on offspring outcome. This simple and innovative treatment strategy may also be beneficial to other women at increased risk for preeclampsia in pregnancy. Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov ; Unique identifier: NCT04216706.

Functional response of systemic and intrafollicular placental growth factor in cycling mares.

The aim of the study was to assess the physiological reference values for systemic and intrafollicular placental growth factor (PlGF) concentrations in different categories of follicular sizes in cycling mares, according to progesterone (P4) and oestradiol (E2) patterns. Sixty ovaries were taken after slaughter from 30 clinically healthy mares. Regarding their size, the follicles were classified into three different categories, i.e. small (20-30 mm), medium-sized (31-40 mm) and large (≥41 mm), and follicular fluid (FF) was sampled from each single follicle. Intrafollicular PlGF concentrations were significantly increased in larger and medium-sized follicles compared to small follicles, and their values were 1.48 and 1.36 times higher than the systemic values, respectively. On the other hand, systemic PlGF concentrations were 1.3 times higher than those in the FF of follicles of small size. Intrafollicular P4 concentrations were significantly higher in larger follicles than in small ones, and their concentrations were 6.74 and 3.42 times higher than the systemic values, respectively. Intrafollicular E2 concentrations were significantly higher in large and medium-sized follicles than in follicles of small size, and their concentrations were 21.1, 15.4 and 8.35 times higher than the systemic values, respectively. Intrafollicular and systemic PlGF concentrations were strongly and positively correlated; nevertheless, no correlations between intrafollicular and systemic steroid hormones, PlGF and follicle diameters, PlGF and E2, or PlGF and P4 were observed. This represents the first study to characterise systemic and intrafollicular PlGF concentrations in cycling normal mares, providing evidence that the bioavailability of this factor in follicles of medium and large sizes was higher than in small follicles, independently of steroid hormone concentrations. Further studies are needed to assess the presumable implications of PlGF in follicular angiogenesis in mares, similar to those already observed in women and primates.

In vivo study of plant protein products from soybeans and non-alkaloid lupine Dega variety

Research on finding additional sources of vegetable protein as an alternative to soy has shown a great prospect of using lupine. The study of biological effects of flour of nonalkaloid lupine Dega variety will assess the future prospects for its use in food industry. The aim - a comparative study of protein products - soybean flour and non-alkaloid lupine flour (Dega-1 variety), added to laboratory rats' diet. Material and methods. Experiment was carried out on three groups of Wistar rats (n=30, 210±5 g) for 28 days: 1st group - rats that consumed the standard vivarium diet (control); 2nd group and 3rd group - animals, that consumed standard diet with addition of lupine flour (protein content - 42.1%) and soy flour (protein content - 50.2%), replacing 26 and 23% protein in standard diet, respectively. Results. As a result of the experiment, fluctuations in body weight of rats in 2nd group and 3rd group were observed from the 11th day; the weight gain of rats in 1st group was 7.74%, 2nd group and 3rd group - 3.32 and 2.04%. Noted changes could be explained by food adaptation of organism to the main nutrients of protein products. The blood test showed minor changes in the hematological and biochemical parameters within physiological reference values. Consumption of lupine flour led to a slight increase of leukocytes (by 14.2%) and lymphocytes (by 24.5%), an increase in the activity of certain enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase by 18.4%, alanine aminotransferase by 26.2% and lactate dehydrogenase by 21.6%, p≥0.05), while alkaline phosphatase activity decreased (14.4%, p<0.05) in comparison with control. Incorporation of soy flour into the diet of rats showed a statistically significant increase in the concentration of monocytes, eosinophils, basophils and immature cells (by 57.1% in comparison with 1st group and 83.3% in comparison with 2nd group), while relative content of granulocytes reduced (by 15.1% relative to the control). Conclusion. The inclusion of plant proteins into the rat's diet did not cause significant deviations in physiological (motor activity), biochemical, hematological parameters in experimental animals. However, the identified features in animals of the experimental groups, possibly related to biologically active substances and anti-alimentary factors in soybean and lupine, indicate the need to improve technological approaches to lupine protein products production in order to improve functional characteristics and completely remove substances that deteriorate nutrients absorption. A possible solution is lupine proteins' proteolysis, the use of various methods of fractionation, isolation and purification in combination with pretreatment to obtain protein concentrates or isolates with improved nutritional, technological and functional properties.

Evaluation of Two Protocols for Analgesia during Total Unilateral Mastectomy in Bitches

Background: Proper evaluation of pain is essential to select effective anesthetic protocols in surgical procedures in animals. Pain assessment can be accomplished during the perioperative period by measuring several physiological parameters, such as heart and respiratory rates. Measuring serum levels of cortisol and glucose is one of the most commonly used methods to assess the effectiveness of protocols for pain control. The aim of this study was to compare two analgesic protocols in dogs undergoing unilateral total mastectomy, a surgery that can cause moderate-to-severe pain in dogs. Materials, Methods &amp; Results: Eighteen female dogs seen at the Veterinary Hospital of the University of Southern Santa Catarina, Brazil, were recruited for this study, without stratification by breed and age, except for brachycephalic breeds. The animals were divided into two groups: 1) FLK group, in which the animals received preoperative ketamine (5 mg/ kg, IM) and midazolam (0.3 mg/kg, IM), an IV bolus of fentanyl (0.004 mg/kg), lidocaine (2 mg/kg) and ketamine (0.5 mg/kg), and then a combination of fentanyl (0.008 mg/kg/h), ketamine (0.6 mg/kg/h) and lidocaine (2 mg/kg/h) diluted in normal saline solution were infused at a rate of 10 mL/kg/h until the end of the surgical procedure; 2) AM group, in which the animals received preoperative morphine (0.5 mg/kg, IM) and acepromazine (0.05 mg/kg, IM). In both groups, anesthesia was induced by using propofol (6 mg/kg, IV) and maintained with isoflurane. Blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture (4 mL) in the preoperative and postoperative periods to evaluate serum levels of cortisol and glucose. Statistical analysis was carried out using the two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures, followed by the Tukey test (P &lt; 0.05). Cortisol levels showed no significant difference between pre- and postoperative periods. Glucose levels showed a significant difference between pre- and postoperative periods in the AM group (P = 0.001). The respiratory rate showed a significant difference between groups at 10 (T10) min after induction (P &lt; 0.001). Discussion: In this study, 67% of the experimental animals were mixed-breed dogs. The average weight was 16.9 ± 10.1 kg. The most frequent age group seen at the Veterinary Hospital was 8-10 years, which is in accordance with other published studies on female dogs with mean age of 10 years. The significant difference in the respiratory rate at T10 can be explained by the respiratory depression caused by a bolus administration of fentanyl in the FLK group. Both protocols were similar in this study; however, higher values of cortisol and glucose, even above the physiological reference values, were observed in the AM group as compared to the FLK group. These higher values must be taken into consideration due to their clinical importance, given that consequences of stress include several deleterious effects, such as immunosuppression, delayed wound healing, and acceleration of disease processes. Findings from this study indicate that the use of a multimodal analgesia protocol, such as the one used in the FLK group, is probably the best alternative for patients submitted to unilateral total mastectomy.

Effect of Breed and Gender on Hematological Parameters and Some Serum Biochemical Profiles of Apparently Healthy indigenous Sheep of Nepal

This research was conducted to investigate the effect of some factors such as breed and sex on biochemical and serum parameters as well as to establish normal physiological reference values for indigenous breed of sheep of Nepal. Blood sample were collected from 25 apparently healthy sheep (11 males and 14 females) from on station flock at Khumaltar, Nepal Agriculture Research Council (NARC) were used. In case of serum biochemical parameters, overall LS mean for total Protein (TP) was less than physiological range while Albumin (Alb) was recorded higher than normal physiological range. The breed differences were observed in TP where Lampuchhre sheep (lowland sheep) showed the lower value than hill sheep breeds (Baruwal and Kage sheep) taken in the study. The same breed exhibited gender variation in the same parameter with values in males were significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) than females. Comparing LS Mean for Alb and Phosphrous (P) for Nepalese sheep, value recorded for females were found to be significantly higher P (&lt;0.05) than males in case of serum Alb while serum P was significantly lower (P&lt;0.05) in females. For RBC indices, Nepalese sheep exhibited higher Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) was higher than normal physiological range. LYM and NE value was significantly higher in Kage breed in comparison to Lampuchhre and Baruwal. The highly significant gender variation for Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) (P&lt;0.01) and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin MCH (P&lt;0.05) where female showed the higher value than males. The result of the preliminary study revealed the breed and sex variation in case of hematological and biochemical indices Further research with more number of samples is warranted for concrete information which could be used to monitor animal health status to improve the management and conservation of these breeds.

OP02.07: Myocardial ventricular performance in normal fetuses at 11–38 weeks of gestation: comparison between speckle‐tracking and traditional echocardiography

To create physiological reference values for Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography (STE) parameters and to compare this technique to traditional echocardiography in evaluating right ventricle (RV) and left ventricle (LV) function. Fetuses from 11 to 38 wg were evaluated with a complete echocardiography and STE using convex probe (ranging from 1-8 MHz), Hitachi-Aloka Prosound Alpha10 and Arietta v70. We divided our population into 4 groups according to gestational age. We measured aortic and pulmonary artery diameters and time-averaged maximum velocities (TAMV) to calculate absolute (RCO and LCO) and weight specific right (sRCO) and left (sLCO) cardiac output with traditional echocardiography. We prospectively stored 4-chambers loops obtained with STE. The images were analysed off line with a specific software to measure ventricular ejection fraction (EF) and longitudinal strain (LS). Statistical analysis was performed with Anova, Tukey's and paired t-test. We analysed 185 healthy fetuses from single pregnancy. Table 1 shows values obtained in 4 groups. RCO and sRCO were significantly higher than LCO and sLCO in all groups. EF and LS progressively increase during gestation in both ventricles. Left EF is higher than Right EF after 14 wg. LS is not statistically different in the two ventricles. From 11 to 13+6 wg, the right ventricle is more efficient. But after 14 wg the left ventricle becomes more efficient then the right according to the evaluation of myocardial performance using STE, even if the RCO is higher than the LCO. These results suggest that the right dominance during fetal life is only due to higher blood volume shunted to the right cardiac side.

Different training schedules influence platelet aggregation in show jumping horses.

Depending on the intensity, duration and type of physical exercise, equine metabolism has to adapt to nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine and respiratory system requirements. In horses, exercise and training are known to have considerable effects on the mechanisms of hemostatic system involving platelet activity. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of different training schedules on platelet aggregation in 15 Italian Saddle jumping horses. Animals were divided into three equal groups: Group A was subjected to a high intensity-training program; group B to a light training program, group C included sedentary horses. From each animal, blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture at rest on the 1st, 3rd and 5th days, and afterwards, once a week, for a total of 5 weeks data recording, in order to assess the maximum degree of platelet aggregation and the initial velocity of aggregation (slope) platelet aggregation. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a significant effect of the different training schedules on studied parameters. The results revealed a different degree of platelet aggregation and a different initial velocity of platelet aggregation that changes during the different training schedules in horses that could represent a different protective endothelial mechanism. These findings could have an important role for a clearer knowledge of the physiological reference values of platelet aggregation and for a better interpretation of these variations during the training.

Metabolic changes during brief periods of ewe–lamb separation at different ages

The present study evaluated metabolic changes in lambs during three brief periods of ewe–lamb separation, namely 1 min (T1), 10 min (T10) and 60 min (T60). The lambs were divided by age into the following three groups: 15 days (G1 = 40 lambs), 30 days (G2 = 40 lambs) and 60 days (G3 = 40 lambs). The hypothesis to be tested was that breaking the ewe–lamb bond at different ages and for these brief time periods will cause significant metabolic changes in the lambs. To this end, blood samples were taken from the three test groups 24 h before separation to establish reference values (RVs), and again at the end of the three separation times. The following blood variables were analysed for all three study groups: glucose (mg/dL), lactate (mg/dL), calcium (Ca2+, mmol/L), sodium (Na+, mmol/L), potassium (K+, mmol/L), haematocrit (HTC, %), pCO2 (mmHg), pO2 (mmHg), HCO3– (mmol/L) and pH. Results showed that the G1 lambs suffered the greatest metabolic changes for the variables pO2, pCO2, glucose, lactate, pH, HCO3–, Ca2+, Na+, K+ and HCT. With respect to time, the first 10 min of separation from the mother induced marked metabolic changes in the 15-, 30- and 60-day-old lambs, but, at 60 min, the G2 and G3 lambs tended to recover their physiological RVs, while the G1 lambs did not. These findings showed that breaking the ewe–lamb bond immediately generated metabolic changes in the lambs even though they remained in a familiar, habitual environment. They also indicated that the age of the lambs at separation was a significant factor, as the older animals tended to re-establish their RVs after the metabolic changes, likely because their physiological compensating mechanisms are more efficient, or perhaps because the intensity of attachment to the mother decreases with greater age.

Provision of physiological data and reference values in awake and anaesthetized female sheep aged 6–12 months

ObjectiveTo provide physiological data and reference values in awake and anaesthetized sheep aged 6–12 months. Study designDescriptive study. AnimalsData from 260 female sheep of the species Ovis orientalis aries aged 6–12 months were extracted from 10 experimental trials. MethodsData from pulmonary arterial thermodilution in awake (cohort 1; n = 109) and anaesthetized animals (cohort 2; n = 81), and transpulmonary thermodilution in anaesthetized animals (cohort 3; n = 70) were analysed. General anaesthesia was induced by intramuscular injection of S-ketamine and midazolam and maintained by inhaled isoflurane. Standard laboratory variables (blood gas and clinical chemistry) were assessed. ResultsA total of 7553 single data entries from 260 healthy sheep were included. Measurement errors or invalid data documentation meant that 313 data entries (4.1%) were excluded. A small confidence interval for median values was calculated for nearly all variables. The median body weight was 39.8 kg (2.5–97.5th percentile 30.6–48.1 kg). A set of reference values (2.5–97.5th percentiles) is provided for common cardiopulmonary and laboratory variables. Compared to awake animals, haemodynamic variables were markedly influenced by anaesthesia, as reflected by a considerably lower stroke volume index in anaesthetized sheep. There were also differences in stroke volume index between the cohorts of pulmonary artery and transpulmonary thermodilution. Conclusions and clinical relevanceThe present work presents a large and consistent database of a variety of physiological variables measured in healthy juvenile female sheep. The data appear to be robust and allow the establishment of standardized inclusion criteria for experimental studies and may help to better evaluate past, present and future research. Differences between pulmonary artery and transpulmonary thermodilution should be assessed in future studies.

Anthropometric and physiological characteristics of Melanesian futsal players: a first approach to talent identification in Oceania.

This study assessed the anthropometric and physiological characteristics of elite Melanesian futsal players in order to determine the best performance predictors. Physiological parameters of performance were measured in 14 Melanesian (MEL-G, 24.4±4.4 yrs) and 8 Caucasian (NMEL-G, 22.9±4.9) elite futsal players, using tests of jump-and-reach (CMJ), agility (T-Test), repeated sprint ability (RSA), RSA with change-of-direction (RSA-COD), sprints with 5 m, 10 m, 15 m, and 30 m lap times, and aerobic fitness with the 30-15 intermittent fitness test (30-15 IFT). The anthropometric data revealed significantly lower height for MEL-G compared with NMEL-G: 1.73±0.05 and 1.80±0.08 m, respectively; P = 0.05. The CMJ was significantly higher for MEL-G than NMEL-G: 50.4±5.9 and 45.2±4.3 cm, respectively; P = 0.05. T-Test times were significantly lower for MEL-G than NMEL-G: 10.47±0.58 and 11.01±0.64 seconds, respectively; P = 0.05. MEL-G height was significantly related to CMJ (r = 0.706, P = 0.01), CMJpeakP (r = 0.709, P = 0.01) and T-Test (r = 0.589, P = 0.02). No significant between-group differences were observed for sprint tests or 30-15 IFT, including heart rate and estimated VO2max. Between groups, the percentage decrement (%Dec) in RSA-COD was significantly lower in MEL-G than NMEL-G (P = 0.05), although no significant difference was noted between RSA and RSA-COD. Within groups, no significant difference was observed between %Dec in RSA or RSA-COD; P = 0.697. This study presents specific anthropometric (significantly lower height) and physiological (significantly greater agility) reference values in Melanesians, which, taken together, might help coaches and physical fitness trainers to optimize elite futsal training and talent identification in Oceania.

Intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging at different magnetic field strengths: What is feasible?

BackgroundDue to limited SNR the cerebral applications of the intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) concept have been sparse. MRI hardware developments have resulted in improved SNR and this may justify a reassessment of IVIM imaging for non-invasive quantification of the cerebral blood volume (CBV) as a first step toward determining the optimal field strength. PurposeTo investigate intravoxel incoherent motion imaging for its potential to assess cerebral blood volume (CBV) at three different MRI field strengths. Materials and methodsFour volunteers were scanned twice at 1.5T, 3T as well as 7T. By correcting for field-strength-dependent effects of relaxation, estimates of corrected CBV (cCBV) were obtained in deep gray matter (DGM), frontal gray matter (FGM) and frontal white matter (FWM), using Bayesian analysis. In addition, simulations were performed to facilitate the interpretation of experimental data. ResultsIn DGM, FGM and FWM we obtained cCBV estimates of 2.2ml/100ml, 2.7ml/100ml, 1.4ml/100ml at 1.5T; 3.7ml/100ml, 5.0ml/100ml, 3.2ml/100ml at 3T and 15.5ml/100ml, 20.3ml/100ml, 7.0ml/100ml at 7T. ConclusionQuantitative cCBV values obtained at 1.5T and 3T corresponded better to physiological reference values, while 7T showed the largest deviation from expected values. Simulations of synthetic tissue voxels indicated that the discrepancy at 7T can partly be explained by SNR issues. Results were generally more repeatable at 7T (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC=0.84) than at 1.5T (ICC=0.68) and 3T (ICC=0.46).