Total Plasma Protein Concentration Research Articles

Influences of Dietary Vitamin E, Selenium-Enriched Yeast, and Soy Isoflavone Supplementation on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, Carcass Traits, Meat Quality and Gut Microbiota in Finishing Pigs.

This study investigated the effects of dietary compound antioxidants on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, carcass traits, meat quality, and gut microbiota in finishing pigs. A total of 36 barrows were randomly assigned to 2 treatments with 6 replicates. The pigs were fed with a basal diet (control) or the basal diet supplemented with 200 mg/kg vitamin E, 0.3 mg/kg selenium-enriched yeast, and 20 mg/kg soy isoflavone. Dietary compound antioxidants decreased the average daily feed intake (ADFI) and feed to gain ratio (F/G) at d 14–28 in finishing pigs (p < 0.05). The plasma total protein, urea nitrogen, triglyceride, and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were decreased while the plasma glutathione (GSH) to glutathione oxidized (GSSG) ratio (GSH/GSSG) was increased by compound antioxidants (p < 0.05). Dietary compound antioxidants increased loin area and b* value at 45 min, decreased backfat thickness at last rib, and drip loss at 48 h (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of colonic Peptococcus at the genus level was increased and ileal Turicibacter_sp_H121 abundance at the species level was decreased by dietary compound antioxidants. Spearman analysis showed a significant negative correlation between the relative abundance of colonic Peptococcus and plasma MDA concentration and meat drip loss at 48 h. Collectively, dietary supplementation with compound antioxidants of vitamin E, selenium-enrich yeast, and soy isoflavone could improve feed efficiency and antioxidant capacity, and modify the backfat thickness and meat quality through modulation of the gut microbiota community.

Effects of “Reed A Dream” Insecticide on Selected Biomarkers of Kidney, Liver, and Lipid Profile in Wistar Rats

This study investigated the effects of “Reed A Dream” (RD) insecticide on selected biomarkers of kidney, liver, and lipid profile in Wistar rats. Twenty-five (25) rats of both sexes (weighing 50-114 g) were divided into 5 groups, comprising of control (0.5mL water), N-hexane only (0.5mL), RD(50% vol/vol) + N-hexane, RD(25% vol/vol) + N-hexane, and RD (12.5% vol/vol) + N-hexane, also labelled as groups 1-5 respectively. After 2 weeks of oral daily administration, the animals were sacrificed; blood, liver, kidney, and heart tissues were taken for biochemical and histopathological investigations. A non-significant decreased (p≥0.05) in plasma concentration of total protein, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in groups 3-5, a significant decrease (p≤0.05) in albumin (groups 3-5); a non-significant increased in creatinine, gamma glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) in groups 3-4 was observed, as compared with the control group; Moreover, a significant increased (p≤ 0.05) in urea in groups 3-5 when compared with the control group. Histology of the liver tissue (Group 3) revealed a central vein with mild congestion, while kidney tissues (groups 3-5) showed visible congestion of glomerulus, and heart tissue (group 3-5) showed interstitial deposition of collagens, as compared with the control group. RD insecticide caused acute nephrotoxicity and mild hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats on oral exposure.

1460-P: Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid (tudca) Improves the Morphofunction of Pancreatic Beta Cells in Postweaning Protein-Restricted Mice

Protein restriction in the postweaning diet in mice impairs glucose metabolism by reducing insulin secretion from pancreatic β cells. TUDCA in obese rodents and humans normalized insulin secretion, increased insulin clearance, furthermore recovered mass and the number of β cells per islet in animal models of diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of TUDCA on the morphology and function of pancreatic β cells in mice subjected to postweaning protein restriction. Male C57Bl/6J mice at 30 days of age received a control diet (14% protein - group C) or a protein-restricted diet (6% protein - group R) for 16 weeks. During the last 2 weeks, 50% of the animals in each group received intraperitoneal treatment with daily doses of 300 mg/kg of body weight of TUDCA (CT and RT) , and the remainder received PBS (C and R) . The R mice that showed decreased total plasma protein and serum albumin concentration had lower weight gain and feed efficiency, but increased white adipose tissue weight. There were no differences in fasting blood glucose between the groups. The R mice that have increased insulin sensitivity after treatment with TUDCA had normalized sensitivity. Isolated islets from R mice have lower insulin secretion, which has been associated with decreased morphometric parameters compared to C. In RT mice secretion was restored in response to 2.8 mM and 11.mM glucose and the pancreas of the RT showed a greater area of β cells in relation to the area of the islets and a greater number of islets compared to R. Furthermore, RT mice showed an increase in the expression of genes of the SNARE complex, genes of function, transcription and differentiation of pancreatic β cells. We conclude that TUDCA improves glycemic homeostasis, increases insulin secretion and improves the functioning of pancreatic β cells in mice subjected to protein restriction, indicating that TUDCA can be used as a therapeutic strategy to normalize insulin secretion in protein malnutrition. Disclosure L.M.Barreto dos santos: None. T.Araujo: None. B.L.Alves: None. S.Ferreira: None. P.L.Zimath: None. J.F.Vettorazzi: None. E.M.Carneiro: None. Funding Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (134270/2019-3)

Clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, treatment and outcome of acute organophosphate or carbamate intoxication in 39 cats.

Organophosphates and carbamates are important sources of intoxication for humans and animals. However, large-scale studies of these intoxications in cats are unavailable. The medical records of 39 cats presented to a veterinary teaching hospital with acute organophosphate or carbamate intoxication were reviewed retrospectively. Mortality in intoxicated cats was 15%. Low respiratory rate and low rectal temperature at presentation were associated with death. Other common clinical signs included weakness, ataxia, apathy, recumbency, anorexia and bradycardia, but these were unassociated with the outcome. The common biochemical abnormalities included decreased serum butyryl-choline esterase activity, acidaemia, hypercarbaemia and total hypocalcaemia, and increased creatine kinase activity and total plasma protein concentration. There were no significant differences in haematological, biochemical and blood gas analytes between survivors and non-survivors. Common medications and treatments included 2-pyridine aldoxime methyl-chloride-pralidoxime (2-PAM) (74%), metoclopramide (64%), antibiotics (64%), diphenhydramine (59%) and atropine sulphate (54%). There were no significant drug and treatment differences between survivors and non-survivors. The secondary complications of the intoxication included pneumonia (10%), acute kidney injury (10%) and pancreatitis (8%). Acute cholinergic crisis due to organophosphate or carbamate intoxication has a fair prognosis in cats. Low respiratory rate and low rectal temperature at presentation were associated with death. The most commonly used specific medications in this study included 2-PAM, diphenhydramine and atropine sulphate.

Beef cows housed in mud during late gestation have greater net energy requirements compared with cows housed on wood chip bedding.

Mud increases net energy requirements for cattle because mud and precipitation compromise the ability of the hair coat to insulate and maintain core body temperature of the cow. The increase in energy required for a gestating cow to compensate for a muddy environment is unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of muddy conditions on cow body weight (BW) and fetal growth during late gestation. Sixteen multiparous Angus cows (n = 8/treatment) were paired based on initial BW and one cow from each pair was randomly allocated to either the mud (MUD) or control (CON) treatment on day 213 of gestation. Pens in the CON group were bedded with wood chips, while pens in the MUD group were designed to create a muddy lot (average depth of 23.6 ± 5.8 cm). Cows were housed outdoors individually and fed the same diet that consisted of a limit-fed total mixed ration. Each pair was fed to meet energy and protein requirements for maintenance and gestation. From day 213 to 269 of gestation, cows were weighed and sampled for blood metabolites weekly. Data were analyzed as a randomized complete block design with repeated measurements (SAS 9.4). Though cows consumed the same amount of dry matter, cows in the MUD treatment weighed 37.4 kg less than cows in the CON treatment (P < 0.01) by day 269 of gestation. Cows in the MUD treatment decreased approximately half a body condition score (BCS), while cows in the CON treatment gained approximately 1 BCS during the treatment period (P < 0.01). There was no evidence of a treatment × day of gestation effect for 12th rib back fat (P = 0.85), rump fat (P = 0.48), total plasma protein concentrations (P = 0.85), or plasma 3-methylhistidine (P = 0.84); however, there was a marginally significant treatment × day of gestation effect for plasma non-esterified fatty acid concentration (P = 0.09). Despite differences in cow BW at the end of the treatment period, calf birth weight (P = 0.66) and calf total plasma protein (P = 0.27) were not different; however, the divergence in cow BW remained marginally significant at parturition (P = 0.06). These results indicate that mud increased net energy requirements for cows in the MUD treatment, as calf birth weight was not different but maternal BW was decreased compared with cows in the CON treatment.

Hepato- and Nephro-Effect of Sphenostylis stenocarpa– Formulated Diet on Dexamethasone-Treated Pregnant Rats

This study sought to investigate the effect of Sphenostylis stenocarpa-formulated diet on hepatic and renal parameters of dexamethasone-treated pregnant rats. Sphenostylis stenocarpa were locally sourced from a market in Ado Ekiti. They were milled into powder and used in formulating feed for experimental animals. Fifteen female pregnant rats were divided in three groups of five each. Animals in group A were exposed to standard animal feed only. This served as the control group. Those in group B were exposed to Sphenostylis stenocarpa-formulated diet + 0.3 mg/kg body weight of dexamethasone, while those in group C were exposed to Sphenostylis stenocarpa-formulated diet. At the end of the eight days treatment, animals were sacrificed and blood sample, liver and kidney were collected. Exposure of pregnant rats to dexamethasone was observed to significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased the activities of plasma aspartate amino transaminase (AST) and alanine amino transferase (ALT) as well as the concentrations of plasma total protein, bilirubin, creatinine and urea when compared with those in animals in the control as well as those fed with S. stenocarpa-formulated diet only. The results further showed that pregnant rats fed with S. stenocarpa-formulated diet only had no significant difference on plasma hepatic and renal biomarkers when compared with those in the control group. The results of liver and kidney homogenates are similar to those observed in the plasma. Exposure of animals to dexamethasone adversely unhinged hepatic and renal biomarkers investigated in the study. The study also revealed that P. biglobosa seed is beneficial to the health of the liver and kidney of pregnant female rats.

Production, metabolism, and follicular dynamics in multiparous dairy cows fed diets providing different amounts of metabolizable protein prepartum and postpartum

Our objectives were (1) to determine whether increasing metabolizable protein (MP) supply above requirements in late-gestation cows would benefit health, milk production, and reproduction; (2) to determine whether an increased supply of MP postpartum affects production; and (3) to determine whether supply of MP prepartum interacts with MP supply postpartum. Pregnant nonlactating cows (n = 60) blocked by expected parturition date were assigned to 1 of 3 prepartum diets from 21 d prepartum to parturition: 12% crude protein (CP) soybean meal (SBM) supplement (LSB); 15% CP SBM supplement (HSB); and 15% CP SBM plus animal-marine protein supplement (HMP). Diets were formulated to supply an estimated 924, 988, and 1,111 g/d of MP, respectively, at 11.5 kg of dry matter intake (DMI). After parturition, cows received diets containing 18% CP, either from SBM (SB) or SBM plus animal-marine protein (AMP) supplements, that provided 2,056 (SB) or 2,293 g/d (AMP) of MP at 21 kg of DMI; thus, treatments were in a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement. Milk production and DMI were recorded for 63 d postpartum. Prepartum DMI was lower at wk -3 for cows fed LSB compared with those fed HSB or HMP. Postpartum DMI did not differ significantly between cows fed SB and those fed AMP (20.8 vs. 19.6 kg/d). Milk production did not differ due to prepartum diets or postpartum diets. Milk fat and protein percentages were not affected by prepartum or postpartum diets. Cows fed AMP postpartum tended to produce more milk fat, but 4% fat-corrected milk (FCM) did not differ from SB-supplemented cows (33.6 kg/d vs. 32.2 kg/d). Gross feed efficiency (FCM/DMI) was greater for cows fed AMP postpartum (1.82 vs. 1.68). Prepartum concentrations of urea N in plasma were lower for LSB than for HSB and HMP, and HSB was greater than HMP. Postpartum concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate were greater for cows fed AMP postpartum than for those fed SB. Postpartum urea N was higher for SB than for AMP (14.4 vs. 12.5 mg/dL). Concentration of total protein in plasma was greater postpartum for cows fed HSB or HMP prepartum than for those fed LSB, and was greater postpartum for cows fed AMP than for those fed SB. Hepatic concentrations of total lipids and triglyceride did not differ among treatments. Hepatic glycogen was greater postpartum for cows fed SB postpartum. Feeding HSB or HMP increased the number of follicles 6 to 9 mm in diameter compared with LSB. The size of the largest follicle was increased by HMP compared with HSB. In conclusion, increasing the amount of MP fed to cows during the last 21 d prepartum did not affect milk production or BCS but increased plasma total protein concentration. Follicular dynamics were improved by increasing the amount of MP prepartum. Feeding HMP prepartum improved follicular dynamics prepartum and increased milk fat yield in wk 1. Feeding AMP postpartum increased efficiency of FCM production and plasma total protein. We found few interactions between prepartum and postpartum MP supply.

Differential Immunomodulatory Potential of Silver Nanoparticles and Effect on the Kynurenine Pathway in Male Wistar Rats

Silver nanoparticles are increasingly being used in a wide variety of ways that may lead to frequency of exposure for humans and the environment. Thus, it is necessary to understand the biological effect(s) of these nanoparticles. Previously, we showed that AgNPs activated the kynurenine pathway in rat brain independently of oxidative stress in rats. This present study is aimed at evaluating the effect of AgNPs on some selected cytokines, redox parameters, and on the kynurenine level in rats. Male Wistar rats (130-150 g) were divided into 4 groups. Rats were grouped into control, AgNPs only (50 mg/kg bw), coadministration of AgNPs (50 mg/kg bw), and dexamethasone (100 mg/kg bw) and dexamethasone only (100 mg/kg bw). Results indicated that AgNPs did not significantly elevate MDA levels in rat plasma and brain relative to the control group. AgNPs caused a significant alteration in the level of rat brain and plasma total protein concentration. Meanwhile, AgNPs led to an elevation in the level of reduced glutathione (GSH) in rat plasma but decreased plasma kynurenine level significantly. Furthermore, IFN-γ level was reduced following AgNPs administration, IL-1β decreased across the treatment groups, while NF-κB was reduced in the dexamethasone only and AgNPs + dexamethasone groups when compared with the control. AgNPs led to increased IL-4 levels, while IL-10 levels decreased across the treatment groups. Taken together, our data showed a differential immunomodulatory potential of AgNPs in rats.

Association between plasma leptin and cesarean section after induction of labor: a case control study

BackgroundObesity in pregnancy is common, with more than 50% of pregnant women being overweight or obese. Obesity has been identified as an independent predictor of dysfunctional labor and is associated with increased risk of failed induction of labor resulting in cesarean section. Leptin, an adipokine, is secreted from adipose tissue under the control of the obesity gene. Concentrations of leptin increase with increasing percent body fat due to elevated leptin production from the adipose tissue of obese individuals. Interestingly, the placenta is also a major source of leptin production during pregnancy. Leptin has regulatory effects on neuronal tissue, vascular smooth muscle, and nonvascular smooth muscle systems. It has also been demonstrated that leptin has an inhibitory effect on myometrial contractility with both intensity and frequency of contractions decreased. These findings suggest that leptin may play an important role in dysfunctional labor and be associated with the outcome of induction of labor at term. Our aim is to determine whether maternal plasma leptin concentration is indicative of the outcome of induction of labor at term. We hypothesize that elevated maternal plasma leptin levels are associated with a failed term induction of labor resulting in a cesarean delivery.MethodsIn this case-control study, leptin was measured in 3rd trimester plasma samples. To analyze labor outcomes, 174 women were selected based on having undergone an induction of labor (IOL), (115 women with successful IOL and 59 women with a failed IOL). Plasma samples and clinical information were obtained from the UI Maternal Fetal Tissue Bank (IRB# 200910784). Maternal plasma leptin and total protein concentrations were measured using commercially available assays. Bivariate analyses and logistic regression models were constructed using regression identified clinically significant confounding variables. All variables were tested at significance level of 0.05.ResultsWomen with failed IOL had higher maternal plasma leptin values (0.5 vs 0.3 pg, P = 0.01). These women were more likely to have obesity (mean BMI 32 vs 27 kg/m2, P = 0.0002) as well as require multiple induction methods (93% vs 73%, p = 0.008). Logistic regression showed Bishop score (OR 1.5, p < 0.001), BMI (OR 0.92, P < 0.001), preeclampsia (OR 0.12, P = 0.010), use of multiple methods of induction (OR 0.22, P = 0.008) and leptin (OR 0.42, P = 0.017) were significantly associated with IOL outcome. Specifically, after controlling for BMI, Bishop Score, and preeclampsia, leptin was still predictive of a failed IOL with an odds ratio of 0.47 (P = 0.046). Finally, using leptin as a predictor for fetal outcomes, leptin was also associated with of fetal intolerance of labor, with an odds ratio of 2.3 (P = 0.027). This association remained but failed to meet statistical significance when controlling for successful (IOL) (OR 1.5, P = 0.50).ConclusionsMaternal plasma leptin may be a useful tool for determining which women are likely to have a failed induction of labor and for counseling women about undertaking an induction of labor versus proceeding with cesarean delivery.

Effects of salinity and plant-based diet or animal-plant combination diet on the performance and metabolic status of juvenile Nile tilapia

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of salinity and plant-based diet or animal-plant combination diet on the performance and metabolic status of juvenile Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The experimental design was completely randomized in a 4 × 2 factorial scheme with four replicates. The treatments were established by the combination of salinities of 0, 10, 20, and 30 g L-1 with an animal-plant combination diet (AP) or plant-based diet (P). The replicates were 60 L tanks with 12 fish per tank. Diets were provided for 32 days, and the fish were fed three times a day (8, 12, and 17 h) until apparent satiety. Daily feed intake (DFI) was measured, body weight (BW) was recorded at the beginning and end of the trial, and total length (TL) and standard length (SL) were measured at the end of the trial. Average daily gain (ADG), specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and survival rate were calculated. After the biometric measurements were made at the end of the trial, blood samples were collected to determine the plasma concentrations of total protein (TP), glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides (TG). The fish were euthanized, and the hepatopancreas was collected and weighed; thereafter, the hepatosomatic index (HSI) was calculated. An interaction was detected between salinity and diet type for final BW, ADG, TL, and SL. These traits were not influenced by salinity when it was associated with the AP diet, but reduced linearly with salinity in the P diet. DFI and survival rate were independently affected by salinity: DFI reduced linearly with salinity levels and survival rate was higher at a salinity of 10 g L-1. HSI increased linearly with salinity levels and was lower in the P diet than in the AP diet. Salinity had a quadratic effect on plasma TP, and the maximum value for this metabolite (2.96 g dL-1) is attained at a salinity of 10.26 g L-1. There was an independent effect of diet on the plasma concentrations of cholesterol and TG, which were lower in the P diet than in the AP diet. The salinity of 10 g L-1 associated with diet composed of animal and plant ingredients led to a better performance, higher survival rate, and less stressful environmental conditions for juvenile Nile tilapia.

Effect of selenium on growth performance and blood parameters of Holstein suckling calves

This experiment was conducted to evaluate and compare the effects of inorganic and organic selenium sources with inorganic and organic carriers on growth performance, starter feed intake, blood parameters, and the concentration of glutathione peroxidase in the blood of suckling Holstein calves. To this objective, 40 suckling Holstein calves (38.47±2.52 kg average birth weight) at 7 days of age were selected and randomly divided into four experimental groups (10 replicates). The experimental groups included control (without selenium supplement), inorganic selenium (supplemented with sodium selenate), organic selenium with inorganic carriers and, organic selenium with organic carriers. The results show that the supplementation of selenium significantly increased the glutathione peroxidase enzyme concentration (P<0.01) and can significantly reduce the concentration of plasma cholesterol (P<0.01). However, there was no significant effect of selenium supplementation on serum glucose, plasma total protein, triglyceride, and urea nitrogen concentrations. Also, none of the treatments had a significant effect on growth performance and starter feed intake.

Impact of Replacing Different Levels of Panicum maximum in Rabbit Diets on Growth Performance, Hemato-Biochemical Profile, and Histological Responses of Some Internal Organs

There has been an interest in alternative sources in rabbit feeding. Therefore, the current study aimed to estimate the health status, growth performance, hemato-biochemical, and histological picture of some important internal organs in growing Newziland rabbits as a result of replacing different levels of Panicum maximum (PM) in its pelleted diet. A total of 35 weaned rabbits (20 males and 15 females) aged 5 weeks were purchased with an average body weight of 839.7 ± 7.05 g and 771.20 ± 9.19 g for males and females, respectively. Randomly, five equal rabbit groups were formed (7 rabbits in each group). The first group (control) was fed a basal diet without PM. The second, third, fourth, and fifth groups were fed pelleted diets containing PM with a replacing percent of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of clover hay, respectively. All groups were fed ad libitum of pelleted feed for two months. The blood was aspirated individually three times, including at the beginning of the experiment (as zero time), after one month, and at the end of the experiment, respectively. The whole blood was used for the measurement of hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit percentage, erythrocytes, and total leukocyte counts. At the experimental end, in each group, 3 male rabbits were sacrificed and their internal organs including liver, kidney, cecum, and rectum were collected for histopathology. The live body weight was significantly affected by sex where males were heavier than females, also feed conversion ratio, growth rate, and feed intake were significantly affected by feeding on different levels of PM. Blood hemoglobin, hematocrit, and the total leukocytic count had a non-significant effect while the erythrocyte count increased significantly in all experimental groups. There were insignificant changes in plasma total protein, albumin, globulin, ALT, AST, creatinine, and glucose concentrations when different levels of PM were added. furthermore, the plasma total cholesterol and triglycerides were significantly decreased in rabbits fed PM, 75% and 100% when compared with 25%, 50%, and control groups. Finally, replacement PM instead of clover hay in pelleted diets till 75% was found to be the safety and optimum percentage for biological and healthy rabbits.

Assessment of Parkia biglobosa on Hepatic and Renal Biomarkers of Dexamethasone-Exposed Pregnant Rats

Aim: This study sought to investigate its effect on hepatic and renal biomarkers of female pregnant rats.&#x0D; Place and Duration: This work was carried out in the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti between January and June 2021.&#x0D; Methodology: Locust bean seeds were purchased from an open market in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria and were processed using standard method. Fifteen female pregnant rats were divided into three groups of five each. Animals in group A were exposed to standard animal feed only. This served as the control group. Those in group B were exposed to animal feed mixed with locust beans + 0.3 mg/kg body weight of dexamethasone, while those in group C were exposed to animal feed mixed with locust beans only. At the end of the eight days treatment, animals were sacrificed and blood sample, liver and kidney were collected.&#x0D; Results: Exposure of pregnant rats to dexamethasone was observed to significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased the activities of plasma aspartate amino transaminase (AST) and alanine amino transferase (ALT) as well as the concentrations of plasma total protein, bilirubin, creatinine and urea when compared with those in animals in the control as well as those treated with P. biglobosa only. The results further showed that administration of P. biglobosa only had no significant effect on plasma hepatic and renal biomarkers except urea which was significantly lower than those in the control group as well as those treated with dexamethasone. The results obtained from liver and kidney homogenate respectively are similar to those observed in the plasma.&#x0D; Conclusion: Exposure of animals to dexamethasone adversely unhinged hepatic and renal biomarkers investigated in the study. The study also revealed that P. biglobosa seed is beneficial to the health of the liver and kidney of pregnant female rats.

Effect of dry period length on plasma minerals and oxidative stress around parturition and milk yield in high-producing Holstein dairy cows.

The aim of present study was to evaluate the effect of dry period length (56 vs. 28days) on plasma minerals, albumin, total protein and globulin, oxidative status, and milk production in high-producing dairy cows (13,500 ± 1800kg milk in previous 305-day lactation). A total of 120 multiparous Holstein cows were used in a repeated measurement mixed model (animal was considered random effect) with two experimental groups and 60 replicates each: 1-long dry period (LDP, 56-day dry period) and 2-short dry period (SDP, 28-day dry period). While LDP cows received two different rations in far-off and close-up periods (DCAD = 189 and - 130 Meq/Kg, respectively), the SDP cows received only the close-up ration (- 130 Meq/Kg) without passing the far-off stage. Blood samples for minerals, oxidative stress, and metabolites (albumin, total protein) were collected on calving day, 24 and 48h after parturition. Milk samples of all cows in each group were collected monthly (four months from parturition to 120 DIM) and analyzed for milk fat, protein, and somatic cell count (SCC). Results showed that SDP had no effect on plasma calcium (Ca), ionized calcium (iCa), magnesium (Mg), and phosphorus (iP). Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the SDP cows was higher (P < 0.05) than the LDP cows. The treatment had no significant effect on plasma concentration of total protein, albumin, globulin, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. A positive significant (P < 0.05) correlation was observed between plasma Mg and TAC in SDP group. Short dry period reduced (P < 0.05) milk production (48.39 vs. 51.95kg/day; about 7%) during the first 120days in milk. However, SDP cows had higher (P < 0.05) milk protein content compared to LDP group. The log-transformed of somatic cell count (LnSCC) was not affected by the treatment. It was concluded that a short dry period (28days) had no negative effect on plasma Ca, iCa, Mg, and iP and even could improve TAC in high-producing Holstein cows.

Comparison between whole blood viscosity measured and calculated in subjects with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and in patients with multiple myeloma: Re-evaluation of our survey.

in this study, with a re-evaluation of the hemorheological determinants previously described in MGUS subjects and in MM patients, we have detected the calculated whole blood viscosity, according whether to the hematocrit and total plasma protein concentration (de Simone formula) or to the haematocrit and plasma fibrinogen level (Merrill formula), and a marker of the erythrocyte aggregation (albumin/fibrinogen level). data were expressed as means±standard deviation. Student's t test for unpaired data was used to compare MGUS subjects and MM patients. The correlation coefficient between mean erythrocyte aggregation (MEA) and hematocrit (Ht) was evaluated in MGUS, MM and MGUS + MM groups using the Spearman test. the comparison between MGUS and MM shows that the measured blood viscosity and calculated blood viscosity based on hematocrit and total plasma protein, but not which estimated in relation to the hematocrit and plasma fibrinogen, differentiate the two groups. A difference between the two groups also regards the measured erythrocyte aggregation and its surrogate marker. In addition, the measured plasma viscosity at low shear rate (0.51 s-1) and, in particular, the ratio between plasma viscosity at low (0.51 s-1) and high (450 s-1) shear rates distinguish MGUS and MM. calculated blood viscosity (de Simone formula and other formulas) and the surrogate marker of erythrocyte aggregation disclose an alike trend with the corresponding hemorheological determinants obtained by using their direct measurement.

Changes in electrolyte concentrations and hydration status in endurance horses following transport and an overnight stay prior to competition.

To evaluate changes in electrolyte concentrations and hydration status that take place in endurance horses prior to the start of a competition and determine whether these changes would be associated with elimination. 19 horses entered in the 2016 Tevis Cup 100-Miles (160 km) One-Day Western States Trail Ride. Heparinized blood samples were collected at 5 time points: prior to transport to the ride (T0), during check-in the day before the ride (T1), 1 to 2 hours before the start of the ride (T2), at the 15-km mark (T3), and at the 55-km mark (T4). Packed cell volume and plasma sodium, potassium, chloride, urea nitrogen, glucose, bicarbonate, and total protein concentrations were determined and compared across time points and between finishers and nonfinishers. Signif icant differences were detected among plasma sodium, potassium, and urea nitrogen concentrations measured prior to the start of the ride (ie, T0, T1, and T2). For all variables except chloride and bicarbonate concentrations, significant differences were detected between values obtained prior to the start of the ride and values obtained during the ride (ie, T3 and T4). Only bicarbonate concentration at the 15-km mark of the ride was significantly associated with finishing status. Results suggested that significant changes in plasma sodium, potassium, and urea nitrogen concentrations can occur in endurance horses during transport to a competition and when horses are stabled overnight before an event. Additionally, a lower bicarbonate concentration following a steep climb early during the ride was associated with subsequent elimination.

The Impacts of Dietary Fermented Mao-tai Lees on Growth Performance, Plasma Metabolites, and Intestinal Microbiota and Metabolites of Weaned Piglets.

This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with fermented Mao-tai lees (FML) on growth performance, plasma metabolites, and intestinal microbiota and metabolites of weaned piglets. A total of 128 Duroc×Landrace×Yorkshire piglets (28-days old) were randomly assigned to one of four groups, feeding a basal diet (control group), a basal diet supplemented with 2, 4 or 6% FML, respectively, for 42days. The results showed that dietary 4% FML supplementation had higher (p<0.05) average daily gain (ADG) and plasma triglyceride concentration during days 1–14 of the trial than the other FML supplemented groups. In addition, dietary 2 and 4% FML supplementation increased (p<0.05) the ADG during days 15–28 of the trial and plasma total protein concentration on day 42 of the trial compared with the 6% FML supplement. The plasma concentrations of arginine, ethanolamine, histidine, isoleucine, lysine, methionine, proline, taurine, threonine, and tyrosine were increased (p<0.05) in the 4% FML group compared with the other three groups on day 14 of the trial. Dietary supplementation with 2–6% FML decreased (p<0.05) the plasma urea nitrogen concentration on day 14 of the trial and the abundance of Escherichia coli in the colon, and dietary 2 and 4% FML supplementation decreased (p<0.05) the abundance of sulfate-reducing bacteria compared with the control group. In the intestinal contents, a higher concentration of FML (6%) supplementation decreased (p<0.05) the colonic acetate concentration compared with the control and 2% FML groups, while 4% FML supplementation increased (p<0.05) the colonic cadaverine concentration compared with the other three groups. In conclusion, dietary 4% FML supplementation might contribute to the increased amino acids metabolism without affecting the growth performance of weaned piglets. Moreover, dietary 2 and 4% FML supplementation were also beneficial to intestinal health via decreasing the abundances of specific pathogens and increasing the concentrations of microbial metabolites in the gut, which provides the theoretical basis and data support for the application of FML in pigs.

Protective effect of aqueous leaf extracts of Chromolaena odorata and Tridax procumbens on doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats.

Background:The liver is one of the organs affected by doxorubicin toxicity. Therefore, in this study, the potential protective role of aqueous leaf extracts of Chromolaena odorata and Tridax procumbens against doxorubicin-induced hepatotoxicity was investigated.Methods:In order to achieve this, their impact on hepatic biomarkers of oxidative stress, lipid and electrolytes’ profile, and plasma biomarkers of liver functions/integrity were monitored in doxorubicin treated rats. The animals were treated with either metformin (250 mg/kg body weight orally for 14 days) or the extracts (50, 75, and 100 mg/kg orally for 14 days) and/or doxorubicin (15 mg/kg, intraperitoneal, 48 h before sacrifice).Results:The hepatic malondialdehyde, cholesterol, calcium, and sodium concentrations, and plasma activities of alanine and aspartate transaminases and alkaline phosphatase, as well as plasma albumin to globulin ratio of test control were significantly (P < .05) higher than those of all the other groups. However, the plasma albumin, total protein, globulin, and total bilirubin concentrations; hepatic concentrations of ascorbic acid, chloride, magnesium, and potassium; and hepatic activities of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase of test control were significantly (P < .05) lower than those of all the other groups.Conclusions:Pretreatment with the extracts and metformin prevented to varying degrees, doxorubicin-induced hepatic damage, as indicated by the attenuation of doxorubicin-induced adverse alterations in hepatic biomarkers of oxidative stress, lipid and electrolyte profiles, and plasma biomarkers of hepatic function/integrity, and keeping them at near-normal values.

Effects of different photoperiods on growth performance and health status of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) juveniles

This study investigated the effects of photoperiod duration on growth, heamatological and blood biochemical parameters, and antioxidant capacity of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Triplicate groups of juvenile fish (33.22 ± 4.68 g) were kept in a recirculating aquaculture system and exposed to five different photoperiods [light/dark (L/D), h] as follows: 8L:16D; 12L:12D; 16L:8D; 20L:4D and 24L:0D. All the fish were fed a commercial diet at a fixed ratio of 1% body mass with daily inspection of the consumed feed. The experiment lasted 16 weeks and fish growth was monitored at 4-week intervals. The results revealed the significant effect of photoperiod duration on growth rate and feed utilization. The constant light exposure (24L:0D) benefited weight gain (WG) only during the first four weeks while thereafter negative impacts were noticed. At the end of the feeding trial, the highest WG and specific growth rate were obtained in the 8L:16D group which significantly differed from those of the 12L:12D and 16L:8D groups. Although fish feed intake was not influenced by photoperiod duration, better feed conversion ratio was found in the 8L:16D group. Moreover, the same group exhibited the highest hepatosomatic and gonadosomatic indices, and haemoglobin concentration. The highest plasma total protein and globulin concentrations were recorded for the 16L:8D group. Plasma glucose concentration decreased by prolongation of light duration while opposite trends were observed for plasma ammonia concentration and creatinine kinase activity. The highest alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities were found in 20L:4D and 12L:12D groups, respectively. Moreover, plasma alkaline phosphatase activity significantly decreased in 12L:12D and 16L:8D groups. Longer light duration led to remarkable increase of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) concentration in fish liver, brain and gill indicating the incidence of oxidative stress. Likewise, boosted antioxidant responses were found in liver [glutathione (GSH) and glutathione S-transferase (GST)], brain (GST) and kidney (superoxide dismutase) as light duration extended. These findings suggest that 8 L:16D is favouring better growth, organosomatic index and antioxidant capacity of largemouth bass juveniles reared in RAS.

PSIX-13 Activation of cell signaling pathways by galectins in cow blood

Abstract Galectins are part of a conserved family of β-galactoside-binding proteins that contribute to critical biological events during mammalian gestation and increasingly recognized for a possible role in the immune response of the cow. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Galectins on signal transduction and cell activation in cow blood. Whole blood was collected aseptically from the jugular vein of healthy Holstein Friesian dairy cows (N=3). Blood samples (2.5ml) in duplicate were treated with 150µl of the four different type of recombinant galectins (1, 3, 4, and 9) respectively and untreated samples were served as control. The concentration of total plasma protein was determined using the Pierce BCA kit. Protein expression profiling was performed using1,358 antibodies on the Full Moon BioSystems’ Signaling Explorer antibody array covering 20 cell signaling pathways, as recommended by the manufacturer using an Agilent microarray scanner. Data normalization was performed using GeneSpring GX software to generate fold changes in gene expression and then filtered to obtain a list of significantly upregulated and downregulated genes. Features were extracted from protein array images of samples treated with Galectin 1, 3, 4, 9, and untreated sample as a control group. Treatment with all four Galectins increased the concentration of total plasma protein. Average increases due to treatment with Gal1, Gal3, Gal4, and Gal9 were 27%, 10%, 20%, and 14% respectively. ANOVA test showed significance difference among the groups (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Dunnett option was used to compare each of the treated samples to the control group as a baseline. The results also showed that there was significant difference between the control group and any of the treated group (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Distinct signaling pathways are activated in response to Galectin exposure. Further studies are needed to define their regulation and functional impact on cow health.