Plasma Biochemical Variables Research Articles

Multiplex influences on vigilance and biochemical variables induced by sleep deprivation.

Sleep loss and sleep deprivation (SD) cause deleterious influences on health, cognition, mood and behaviour. Nevertheless, insufficient sleep and SD are prevalent across many industries and occur in various emergencies. The deleterious consequences of SD have yet to be fully elucidated. This study aimed to assess the extensive influences of SD on physiology, vigilance, and plasma biochemical variables. Seventeen volunteers were recruited to participate in a 32.5-h SD experiment. Multiple physiological and cognitive variables, including tympanic temperature, blood oxygen saturation (SaO2), and vigilance were recorded. Urinal/salivary samples were collected and subjected to cortisol or cortisone analysis, and plasma samples were subjected to transcriptomic analysis of circular RNA (circRNA) expression using microarray. Plasma neurotransmitters were measured by targeted metabolic analysis, and the levels of inflammatory factors were assessed by antibody microarray. The volunteers showed significantly increased sleepiness and decreased vigilance during SD, and the changes in circadian rhythm and plasma biochemistry were observed. The plasma calcium (p = 0.0007) was induced by SD, while ischaemia-modified albumin (IMA, p = 0.0030) and total bile acid (TBA, p = 0.0157) decreased. Differentially expressed circRNAs in plasma were identified, which are involved in multiple signaling pathways including neuronal regulation and immunity. Accordingly, SD induced a decrease in 3-hydroxybutyric acid (3OBH, p = 0.0002) and an increase in thyroxine (T4, p < 0.0001) in plasma. The plasma anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was downregulated while other ten inflammatory factors were upregulated. This study demonstrates that SD influences biochemical, physiological, cognitive variables, and the significantly changed variables may serve as candidates of SD markers. These findings may further our understanding of the detrimental consequence of sleep disturbance at multiple levels.

Comparative plasma biochemistry analyte data in nesting leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), foraging green (Chelonia mydas) and foraging and nesting hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) sea turtles in Grenada, West Indies.

Blood biochemistry represents a minimally invasive tool for monitoring sea turtle health, assessing injured sea turtles and supporting conservation strategies. In Grenada, West Indies, plasma biochemical variables were examined in 33 nesting leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), 49 foraging green (Chelonia mydas), 49 foraging hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) and 12 nesting hawksbill sea turtles sampled between 2017 and 2022. Plasma biochemistry reference intervals are described herein except for nesting hawksbills, which are represented by descriptive statistics due to the low sample size. Select analyte concentrations were positively correlated with curved carapace length in leatherbacks (chloride), green turtles (total protein, albumin and globulin) and foraging hawksbills (total protein, albumin and phosphorus). Cholesterol (7.8 mmol/l ± 1.6 SD) and triglyceride (6.9 mmol/l ± 1.9 SD) concentrations were significantly higher in leatherbacks compared to foraging green turtles, foraging hawksbills and nesting hawksbills (P < 0.001 for all). Cholesterol was significantly higher in nesting hawksbills compared to foraging green turtles (P = 0.050) and foraging hawksbills (P = 0.050). Foraging hawksbills demonstrated significantly higher aspartate transaminase activities than leatherbacks (P = 0.002), green turtles (P = 0.009) and nesting hawksbills (P < 0.001). Biochemical results provide baseline population health data and support guidance for treatments during clinical sea turtle rehabilitation efforts. They also provide insight into species-specific physiologic differences and preludes further studies to better characterize the impacts of life-stage class on biochemistry reference intervals to better support wild sea turtle populations in Grenada.

Downregulated Adipose Tissue Expression of Browning Genes With Increased Environmental Temperatures.

Climate change and global warming have been hypothesized to influence the increased prevalence of obesity worldwide. However, the evidence is scarce. We aimed to investigate how outside temperature might affect adipose tissue physiology and metabolic traits. The expression of genes involved in thermogenesis/browning and adipogenesis were evaluated (through quantitative polymerase chain reaction) in the subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) from 1083 individuals recruited in 5 different regions of Spain (3 in the North and 2 in the South). Plasma biochemical variables and adiponectin (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) were collected through standardized protocols. Mean environmental outdoor temperatures were obtained from the National Agency of Meteorology. Univariate, multivariate, and artificial intelligence analyses (Boruta algorithm) were performed. The SAT expression of genes associated with browning (UCP1, PRDM16, and CIDEA) and ADIPOQ were significantly and negatively associated with minimum, average, and maximum temperatures. The latter temperatures were also negatively associated with the expression of genes involved in adipogenesis (FASN, SLC2A4, and PLIN1). Decreased SAT expression of UCP1 and ADIPOQ messenger RNA and circulating adiponectin were observed with increasing temperatures in all individuals as a whole and within participants with obesity in univariate, multivariate, and artificial intelligence analyses. The differences remained statistically significant in individuals without type 2 diabetes and in samples collected during winter. Decreased adipose tissue expression of genes involved in browning and adiponectin with increased environmental temperatures were observed. Given the North-South gradient of obesity prevalence in these same regions, the present observations could have implications for the relationship of the obesity pandemic with global warming.

Risk of Developing Insulin Resistance in Adult Subjects with Phenylketonuria: Machine Learning Model Reveals an Association with Phenylalanine Concentrations in Dried Blood Spots.

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism where high phenylalanine (Phe) concentrations cause irreversible intellectual disability that can be prevented by newborn screening and early treatment. Evidence suggests that PKU subjects not adherent to treatment could be at risk of insulin resistance (IR). We studied how Phe concentrations (PheCs) relate to IR using machine learning (ML) and derived potential biomarkers. In our cross-sectional study, we analyzed subjects with neonatal diagnoses of PKU, grouped as follows: 10 subjects who adhered to treatment (G1); 14 subjects who suspended treatment (G2); and 24 control subjects (G3). We analyzed plasma biochemical variables, as well as profiles of amino acids and acylcarnitines in dried blood spots (DBSs). Higher PheCs and plasma insulin levels were observed in the G2 group compared to the other groups. Additionally, a positive correlation between the PheCs and homeostatic measurement assessments (HOMA-IRs) was found, as well as a negative correlation between the HOMA-Sensitivity (%) and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) scores. An ML model was then trained to predict abnormal HOMA-IRs using the panel of metabolites measured from DBSs. Notably, ranking the features' importance placed PheCs as the second most important feature after BMI for predicting abnormal HOMA-IRs. Our results indicate that low adherence to PKU treatment could affect insulin signaling, decrease glucose utilization, and lead to IR.

Efficacy and safety ofhigher oral doses ofazaperone toachieve sedation inpigs.

The aim ofthis study isto evaluate the possibility ofachieving more effective and prolonged sedation inpigs bythe oral administration ofincreased doses ofazaperone and toevaluate its safety. This was performed through a prospective randomised and double blinded study. A total of32weaned piglets were divided into 4groups (8in each group). GroupA was given 1ml ofsaline orally and served asthe control group. GroupB received azaperone orally ata dose of4mg/kg b.w. GroupC received azaperone orally ata dose of8mg/kg b.w. GroupD was given azaperone orally ata dose of12mg/kg b.w. The response tothe defined stimulus, movement level, degree ofsalivation, body temperature, respiratory frequency, blood plasma azaperone concentration and biochemical variables were included inthe trial. Wefound that byincreasing the dose ofthe orally administered azaperone, the onset ofthe sedation isfaster, the end ofthe sedation starts later and the sedation time islonger. However, the use ofhigher doses oforal azaperone isnot suitable for piglets because the doses negatively affect the respiratory rate, body temperature, some biochemical parameters and cause the immobility ofthe piglets.

Biochemical reference intervals in broiler chickens according to age and strain

Abstract. The objective of the research was to study the physiological pattern of biochemical variables and to obtain reference intervals for young (less than 1 month) and adult (more than 1 month) broiler chickens of 2 strains. From the jugular vein, blood for analysis was collected, separated, and then immediately analyzed. The influence of age was significant for the majority of the investigated variables in the 2 groups. In Isa15 strain, a significant age-related decrease in plasma uric acid, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, phosphorus, potassium and iron was established. Also, a significant age-related increase in plasma calcium and ASAT was obtained in the same broiler strain. In Arbor Acres Plus strain, a significant age-related decrease in plasma glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides and phosphorus was observed. A significant age-related increase in plasma total protein, calcium and ASAT has also been reported in this broiler strain. A significant difference between the two strains was reported for plasma uric acid, glucose, cholesterol, phosphorus, magnesium and iron (p&lt;0.05). For most estimated parameters in the 2 strains, calculation of separate reference intervals for young and adult animals was appropriate. Except for potassium in young Isa15 strain, and phosphorus in young Arbor Acres Plus strain, all variables did not follow a normal distribution. Reference intervals are presented for both ages using non-parametric or robust method. 90% confidence intervals for both groups were calculated non-parametrically, or by the bootstraping method. The established reference intervals will be a useful guide for interpreting plasma biochemical variables in different strains of broiler chickens raised in Algeria, and reared in a mild Mediterranean climate.

Stunning bullfrogs by electronarcosis and thermonarcosis: Hematological and plasma biochemical responses

Stunning before slaughter should promote the induction and permanence of the animals in a state of unconsciousness to avoid or minimize stress. In bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) slaughter the most used stunning methods are thermonarcosis and electronarcosis. However, little is known about the effect of these two techniques on the bullfrog's welfare. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of two different stunning methods on some stress indicators in bullfrogs. A completely randomized design was conducted with four treatments: electronarcosis stunning (4 s inductive shock, 45.5 v and 10 A electrical current with resistive filter), thermonarcosis (saline solution and ice for 15 min, approximately 1 °C), frogs in control condition of their holding pen and frogs restrained in bag (animals placed in a raffia bag for a period of 1 h:30 min). Ten frogs were used as replicates per treatment. Blood glucose, lactate, triglycerides, cholesterol and total protein of frogs subjected to electrical stunning were equal to that of animals kept in holding pen condition. In those stunned by thermonarcosis, there was a reduction in blood glucose and total protein and an increase in lactate, triglyceride and cholesterol and urea, similar to what occurred in frogs restraint in bags. Albumin concentration was higher in animals stunned by electronarcosis and the level of globulins in this treatment did not differ from animals under holding pen conditions. Frogs subjected to thermonarcosis had the lowest concentration of globulins and the amount of albumin was equal to that of frogs in holding pen. The albumin/globulin ratio was higher in frogs stunned by thermonarcosis, compared to the other treatments. The hematocrit and number of erythrocytes were not influenced by the type of stunning. VCM was higher in animals submitted to electronarcosis while hemoglobin, HCM and CHCM was higher in frogs stunned by thermonarcosis. In conclusion, the physiological condition of frogs submerged in ice cold saline solution was as stressful as that of frogs contained in a bag for 1 h:30 min. The electronarcosis stunning technique causes less interference in the hematological and plasma biochemical variables, promoting less stress and, consequently, greater well-being for the bullfrog in the pre-slaughter period. Research is needed to determine if electronarcosis achieves instant unconsciousness.

Health reference intervals and values for common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus), Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens), and beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas).

This study reports comprehensive clinical pathology data for hematology, serum, and plasma biochemistry reference intervals for 174 apparently healthy common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and reference values for 27 Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus), 13 beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas), and 6 Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) in zoos and aquariums accredited by the Alliance for Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Blood samples were collected as part of a larger study titled “Towards understanding the welfare of cetaceans in zoos and aquariums” (colloquially called the Cetacean Welfare Study). Two blood samples were collected following a standardized protocol, and two veterinarian examinations were conducted approximately six months apart between July to November 2018 and January to April 2019. Least square means, standard deviations, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for hematology, serum, and plasma biochemical variables. Comparisons by age, gender, and month revealed statistically significant differences (p < 0.01) for several variables. Reference intervals and values were generated for samples tested at two laboratories for up to 56 hematologic, serum, and plasma biochemical variables. To apply these data, ZooPhysioTrak, an iOS mobile software application, was developed to provide a new resource for cetacean management. ZooPhysioTrak provides species-specific reference intervals and values based on user inputs of individual demographic and sample information. These data provide a baseline from which to compare hematological, serum, and plasma biochemical values in cetaceans in zoos and aquariums.

The protective effect of vasopressin deficiency in liver fibrosis in rats with chronic portocaval anastomosis

Liver fibrosis occur in liver diseases and its complications is cause of the increased rate of human mortality. The disease is characterized by the gradual accumulation of scar tissue in the liver parenchyma with decrease in metabolic capacity and liver failure. It is known that arginine vasopressin (AVP) participate in the regulation of the immune responses, including the scarring. However, the effect of how AVP regulates this process is not clear. Here we study the role of the AVP deficiency induced by the neurointermediate pituitary lobectomy (NIL) in rats with chronic anastomosis portocaval (APC) model (sixteen weeks). Groups of young male Wistar rats of 8–10 each were prepared: Sham operated (SHAM), APC, LNI and APC+NIL. Blood, plasma and serum biochemical variables were assessed: prothrombin time (TP), blood NH3, transaminases (TGO and TGP), bilirubins and γ‐Glutamyl Transpeptidase (GGT). Liver histological slides were stained with H‐E, Masson, Sirius Red and PAS. Results showed that in the APC group: the TP, NH3, TGO and TGP, bilirubins and GGT were significantly increased, whereas serum glucose levels, cholesterol, triglycerides, albumin, total proteins and the liver glycogen content where significantly augmented. Comparisons between SHAM and NIL groups did not shown significant differences in all these variables. As compared with the APC, the APC+NIL group developed a significant improvement in all these variables. The liver histopathology showed that the APC group developed a significant increase in fibrosis septa, inflammatory infiltrates and diminution of the glycogen content. The NIL group we do not have available data yet. In the NIL+APC group histology data showed a significant liver regeneration; less fibrosis, disappearance of inflammatory infiltrates and liver glycogen restoration.ConclusionsResults indicate the AVP play a role in liver fibrosis (demonstrated by the AVP deficiency). Results also suggest that AVP antagonists may be used for liver fibrosis treatment.Support or Funding InformationUniversidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes PIFF14‐1 andCONACYT 221262. México

Pharmacokinetics of meloxicam during multiple oral or intramuscular dose administration to African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus).

OBJECTIVE To determine the pharmacokinetics of meloxicam in African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) during administration of multiple doses. ANIMALS 6 healthy African grey parrots. PROCEDURES Meloxicam was administered at each of 3 dosages (1 mg/kg, IM, q 24 h, for 7 days; 1 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h, for 12 days; and 1.6 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h, for 7 days) with an 8-week washout period between treatments. Blood samples were collected 12 and 24 hours after each drug administration (times of presumptive peak and trough drug concentrations) for pharmacokinetic analysis. Birds were visually assessed during all experiments and monitored for changes in selected plasma and urine biochemical variables after administration of the drug at 1.6 mg/kg. RESULTS Mean trough plasma concentrations at steady state were 10.7 and 9.16 μg/mL after meloxicam administration at 1 mg/kg, IM, and 1 mg/kg, PO, respectively. Plasma drug accumulation was evident (accumulation ratios of 2.04 ± 0.30 [IM treatment] and 2.45 ± 0.26 [PO treatment]). Plasma and urine N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase activities were significantly increased at the end of meloxicam treatment at 1.6 mg/kg. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Plasma concentrations of meloxicam were maintained at values greater than effective analgesic concentrations described for other avian species. Although administration of meloxicam at a dosage of 1 mg/kg IM and PO daily for 1 week and 12 days, respectively, was not associated with adverse clinical effects in this population, further studies are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of the drug during prolonged treatment and the clinical relevance of its accumulation.

Former food products have no detrimental effects on diet digestibility, growth performance and selected plasma variables in post-weaning piglets

The effect of a diet based on former food products (FFP) as alternative feed ingredients on in vitro and in vivo digestibility of dry matter (DM), pig growth performance, and selected plasma biochemical variables were evaluated. After an adaptation period (7 d), 12 post-weaning piglets (28 days-old) were housed for 16 d in individual pens and assigned to two experimental groups: Control (n = 6), received a standard diet and FFP (n = 6), received a diet in which conventional cereals (wheat, barley, and corn), plasma powder and whey powder, were partially replaced by 30% FFP. During the experiment, stool and blood samples were also collected for DM in vivo digestibility and for plasma biochemical measurements, respectively. The results revealed that both in vitro and in vivo digestibility values were higher (p<.05) for FFP diets compared to the control diets. At the end of the experiment, no differences in BW were observed between groups (p=.61). ADG and ADFI were not affected by dietary treatment. Conversely, piglets on the FFP diet showed a lower FCR (p<.01). Finally, dietary treatment also affected plasma glucose and urea, which in pigs fed FFPs increased and decreased, respectively. Taken together, these results suggest that the use of FFPs up to a level of 30% in post-weaning diets has no detrimental effects on pig growth performance, although more studies are needed to confirm these results.HighlightsCFormer foodstuffs products (FFPs) are valuable alternative feed ingredients.FFPs can partially replace cereal grains in post-weaning piglet’s diets without affecting growth performance.

Low dissolved oxygen levels increase stress in piava (Megaleporinus obtusidens): iono-regulatory, metabolic and oxidative responses.

The aquatic environment presents daily and/or seasonal variations in dissolved oxygen (DO) levels. Piava faces different DO levels in the water due to its distributional characteristics. The goal of this study was to describe the effects of low DO levels on plasma ion, biochemical and oxidative variables in piava juveniles. Fish were exposed to different DO levels, including 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 mg L-1 of DO for 96 h, after which blood and tissue samples (liver, kidney, gill and muscle) were collected. The decrease in DO levels decreased plasma Na+, Cl-, K+ and NH3 levels as well as protein and glycogen levels in the liver, kidney and muscle; increased Na+/K+-ATPase activity in the gills and kidney as well as glucose and ammonia levels in the liver, kidney and muscle; and increased lactate levels in the kidney and muscle. Thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances, catalase and non-protein thiol levels decreased in the tissues of piavas exposed to low DO levels. It is concluded that piava can apparently cope with hypoxic conditions; however, low DO levels are a stressor, and the tolerance of piava to hypoxia involves iono-regulatory, metabolic and oxidative adjustments.

Evaluation of the inhibitory effects of telmisartan on drug-induced renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activation in normal dogs

IntroductionThis study examined whether the angiotensin II receptor blocker telmisartan had inhibitory effects on drug-induced renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) activation in normal dogs. AnimalsFive healthy laboratory beagles were used in this study. MethodsEach dog received amlodipine (0.5 mg/kg, q12h, PO) alone for 14 days. Starting on the next day, animals received both amlodipine and telmisartan (1.0 mg/kg, q24h, PO) for 84 days. Systolic blood pressure, heart rate, plasma biochemical variables (blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and electrolytes), plasma renin activity, and 24-h urinary aldosterone elimination (U-Aldo) were measured before amlodipine administration; at day 0; and at days 1, 7, 14, 28, 56, and 84 of telmisartan treatment. ResultsTelmisartan was associated with significant decreases in systolic blood pressure on day 56 (p=0.046), whereas heart rate did not significantly change during this treatment (p=0.061). Plasma renin activity was significantly increased on days 1, 7, 28, 56, and 84 during telmisartan administration (all p=0.04). No change in median U-Aldo was detected following telmisartan administration (p=0.241). When U-Aldo was evaluated in individual animals, two dogs displayed evidence of aldosterone breakthrough. ConclusionsTelmisartan administration did not suppress RAAS activation. The appearance of aldosterone breakthrough supports the incomplete blockade of RAAS activation.

Reference Intervals for Plasma Biochemical Variables by Point-of-Care Testing in Captive Black-tailed Prairie Dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus).

Black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) are kept in zoological collections, maintained as companion pets, and are tested in field and laboratory settings. Biochemical analysis for routine health and research purposes can be performed by using point-of-care (POC) testing; however, analyzer- and species-specific reference intervals need to be determined. In this prospective study, 50 captive-raised sexually intact prairie dogs (16 females, 34 males) underwent plasma biochemical analysis by using a veterinary POC biochemical analyzer. We used a manufacturer-predetermined profile of 14 analytes: albumin, ALP, ALT, amylase, BUN, calcium, creatinine, glucose, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, total bilirubin, total protein and globulin. A subset of 17 samples was tested concurrently for the same 14 analytes by using a reference laboratory analyzer, and we determined RI for the POC analyzer for these 14 biochemical analytes. Sex had a significant effect on albumin and creatinine values, which were higher in females than males, and on ALT, which was lower in females. In addition, age had an effect on 9 plasma analytes: juvenile animals had higher plasma concentrations of albumin, ALP, ALT, BUN, and glucose than adult animals, whereas adults had higher concentrations of creatinine, sodium, total protein, and globulins. Only calcium and BUN had acceptable analytical agreement between the POC and reference analyzers. The reference intervals determined in this study can aid clinicians and researchers performing POC plasma biochemical analysis in prairie dogs, providing that they consider potential analyzer-, sex-, and age-related effects.

Assessment of Lipid Peroxidation and Antioxidant Status in Vanillic Acid Treated 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene Induced Hamster Buccal Pouch Carcinogenesis.

Vanillic acid, a naturally occurring bioactive substance, possesses diverse pharmacological potential including free radical scavenging and anticancer properties. Excessive generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and insufficient antioxidant potential has been involved in numerous pathological disorders, including cancer. To explore the anti-lipid peroxidative and antioxidant efficacy of vanillic acid in Dimethylbenz[a]Anthracene (DMBA) induced oral carcinogenesis. Topical application of DMBA for 14 weeks in the buccal pouch of hamsters resulted in well developed oral squamous cell carcinoma. Vanillic acid at a dosage of 200 mg/kg body weight was orally administrated to the hamsters for 14 weeks. The status of lipid peroxidation and antioxidants were measured in the plasma and buccal mucosa of hamsters using specific colorimetric methods. Altered levels of lipid peroxidation by-products {Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS)} and disturbances in antioxidants status {Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), vitamin E, vitamin C and reduced Glutathione (GSH)} were observed in the plasma and buccal mucosa tissues of hamsters treated with DMBA alone. Vanillic acid (200 mg/kg bw p.o) significantly restored the above mentioned plasma and buccal mucosa biochemical variables to near normal range in DMBA treated hamsters. Present findings thus confirm the anti-lipid peroxidative and antioxidant efficacy of vanillic acid in DMBA induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis.

Modeling Hematologic and Biochemical Parameters with Spatiotemporal Analysis for the Free-Ranging Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) in Illinois and Tennessee, a Potential Biosentinel.

Box turtles are long-lived, inhabit both aquatic and terrestrial habitats, and have relatively small home ranges making them a suitable candidate as a sentinel. To characterize their changes in response to environmental health, assessment of observed variation of this species is required. Thus, a comparative health assessment was employed in 825 Eastern box turtles in east central Illinois and Oak Ridge, Tennessee, to establish a baseline health assessment with regard to sex, age class, season, and location, identify temporal trends, and map parameters. Hematological and plasma biochemical variables measured included packed cell volume, total solids, white blood cell and differential counts, calcium, phosphorus, aspartate aminotransferase, bile acids, creatine kinase, and uric acid. These variables were reduced to four principle components that explained 68.8% of the cumulative variance. The top model included the main effects of year, location, and sex, but no interactions. Spatial analysis of turtles in Tennessee demonstrated increased WBC and decreased PCV in 2011 associated with a clear-cut silviculture site. The results of this health assessment can serve as a baseline of population health in future studies and aid in the utility of this species as a sentinel.

Influence of boar breeds or hybrid genetic composition on semen quality and seminal plasma biochemical variables

The enzyme concentrations of seminal plasma are important for spermatozoa metabolism and function in boars. The need has arisen for introducing a biochemical evaluation of semen, along with the usual standard semen analyses. There are no data on the influence of boar breeds on the seminal plasma biochemical variables investigated in this study. Therefore, the objective was to determine the influence of breed and hybrid genetic composition of boars on semen quality and seminal plasma biochemical variables. Semen samples of 27 boars (Swedish Landrace, German Landrace, Large White, Pietrain and Pig Improvement Company hybrid—PIC-hybrid), aged between 1.5 and 3 years, were collected. After evaluation of semen quality, the seminal plasma was separated from the spermatozoa by centrifugation of semen. The seminal plasma was subjected to spectrophotometric analysis to determine alkaline phosphatase (ALP), acid phosphatase (ACP), γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT), creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and to atomic absorption spectrophotometric analysis to measure the concentration of calcium and magnesium. Conventional semen quality variables differed depending on breed and PIC-hybrid genetic composition, though these differences were typically insignificant. In the seminal plasma, significant differences were determined in enzyme activity (ALP, GGT, CK and LDH) and in calcium concentration among boars of differnt breeds. There are, therefore, differences in semen quality and significant differences in the seminal plasma biochemical variables among boars of different breeds and PIC-hybrid genetic composition. The data and differences in semen variables detected in the present study provide knowledge for enhancing evaluation and monitoring of boar reproductive potential, semen quality and explain the potential causes of boar infertility.

Salsalate attenuates diet induced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in mice by decreasing lipogenic and inflammatory processes.

Salsalate (salicylsalicylic acid) is an anti-inflammatory drug that was recently found to exert beneficial metabolic effects on glucose and lipid metabolism. Although its utility in the prevention and management of a wide range of vascular disorders, including type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome has been suggested before, the potential of salsalate to protect against non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) remains unclear. The aim of the present study was therefore to ascertain the effects of salsalate on the development of NASH. Transgenic APOE*3Leiden.CETP mice were fed a high-fat and high-cholesterol diet with or without salsalate for 12 and 20 weeks. The effects on body weight, plasma biochemical variables, liver histology and hepatic gene expression were assessed. Salsalate prevented weight gain, improved dyslipidemia and insulin resistance and ameliorated diet-induced NASH, as shown by decreased hepatic microvesicular and macrovesicular steatosis, reduced hepatic inflammation and reduced development of fibrosis. Salsalate affected lipid metabolism by increasing β-oxidation and decreasing lipogenesis, as shown by the activation of PPAR-α, PPAR-γ co-activator 1β, RXR-α and inhibition of genes controlled by the transcription factor MLXIPL/ChREBP. Inflammation was reduced by down-regulation of the NF-κB pathway, and fibrosis development was prevented by down-regulation of TGF-β signalling. Salsalate exerted a preventive effect on the development of NASH and progression to fibrosis. These data suggest a clinical application of salsalate in preventing NASH.

Determination of the Tolerable Upper Intake Level of Leucine in Healthy Elderly (70‐75y)

Leucine, a branched‐chain amino acid, has been shown to stimulate muscle protein synthesis, and thus it has been proposed to prevent age related muscle atrophy (sarcopenia). Therefore, leucine supplementation may have potential benefits in elderly populations. The UL (tolerable upper intake level) for leucine intake in young men has been recently determined to be 500 mg/kg/day, and increases in ammonia concentrations were seen at intake levels above 500/mg/kg/day. The objective of the current study was to determine the UL for leucine in healthy elderly men, as this is currently unknown. Five healthy elderly men (70 – 76 yrs) received graded stepwise increases in leucine intakes ranging from 50 ‐ 650 mg/kg/day, provided on eight separate study days. The UL of leucine was identified by measurements of plasma and urinary biochemical variables, including blood ammonia, glucose and insulin concentrations. Further, the participants received an oral primed‐continuous protocol of 1‐13C‐leucine on all study days to measure changes in leucine oxidation. None of the participants reported any adverse physical symptoms on study days. Leucine oxidation appears to plateau with increasing leucine intakes. Blood ammonia concentrations above normal values (35 µmol/L) were observed at leucine intake of 350mg/kg/day and above. Plasma glucose stayed within normal ranges. These preliminary results suggest that the UL for leucine in healthy elderly men may be lower than the current UL of 500 mg/kg/d for healthy young men.(Supported by ICAAS)

Plasma biochemistry and urinalysis variables of koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) with and without oxalate nephrosis.

Oxalate nephrosis is a highly prevalent disease in the Mount Lofty Ranges koala population in South Australia, but associated clinicopathologic findings remain undescribed. The aims of this study were to determine plasma biochemical and urinalysis variables, particularly for renal function and urinary crystal morphology and composition, in koalas with oxalate nephrosis. Blood and urine samples from Mount Lofty Ranges koalas with oxalate nephrosis were compared with those unaffected by renal oxalate crystal deposition from Mount Lofty and Kangaroo Island, South Australia and Moggill, Queensland. Plasma and urine biochemistry variables were analyzed using a Cobas Bio analyzer, and urinary oxalate by high-performance liquid chromatography. Urinary crystal composition was determined by infrared spectroscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. Azotemia (urea > 6.6 mmol/L, creatinine > 150 μmol/L) was found in 93% of koalas with oxalate nephrosis (n = 15). All azotemic animals had renal insufficiency (urine specific gravity [USG] < 1.035), and in 83%, USG was < 1.030. Koalas with oxalate nephrosis were hyperoxaluric compared with Queensland koalas (P < .01). Urinary crystals from koalas with oxalate nephrosis had atypical morphology and were composed of calcium oxalate. Mount Lofty Ranges koalas unaffected by renal oxalate crystal deposition had renal insufficiency (43%), although only 14% had USG < 1.030 (n = 7). Unaffected Mount Lofty Ranges and Kangaroo Island koalas were hyperoxaluric compared with Queensland koalas (P < .01). Koalas with oxalate nephrosis from the Mount Lofty Ranges had renal insufficiency, hyperoxaluria, and pathognomonic urinary crystals. The findings of this study will aid veterinary diagnosis of this disease.