Total Plasma Protein Concentration Research Articles

Effect of dietary l-arginine of broiler breeder hens on embryonic development, apparent metabolism, and immunity of offspring

This study investigated the effects of supplemented l-arginine (l-Arg) in broiler breeder hens' diets on the embryonic development and physiological changes of offspring during the hatching period. A total of 480 35-wk-old healthy female Arbor Acres broiler breeders were randomly divided into 6 groups and fed a corn and soybean meal diet with 6 digestible Arg levels (0.96%, 1.16%, 1.35%, 1.55%, 1.74%, and 1.93%). After a 10-wk experiment, eggs were collected for incubation. At embryonic day (E) 11 to E21, eggs, embryos, and organs (liver, breast muscle, and thigh muscle) were weighed. Total protein, urea nitrogen, creatinine, cholesterol, and triglyceride in plasma, were measured. Plasma level of immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) were measured at E13, E17, and E21. Messenger RNA expression of carbamoyl phosphate synthase I (CPS1), ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC), and argininosuccinate synthase (ASS) in liver and breast muscle tissues was assessed at E13, E17, and E21. The results showed that 1.16% Arg in maternal diet increased egg weight (P < 0.05). The level of Arg in maternal diet has a significant effect on organ index and embryo weight of multiple embryonic days (P < 0.05). Embryonic plasma total protein concentration was significantly affected by maternal dietary Arg level (P < 0.05) and exhibited quadratic responses at E11, E15, E17, and E21 (P < 0.01). Plasma urea nitrogen, creatinine, triglyceride, and cholesterol level were also significantly affected by the level of maternal Arg at different embryonic ages (P < 0.05). Dietary digestible Arg levels quadratically influenced plasma urea nitrogen level at E21 (P < 0.05) and cholesterol concentration at E17 and E19 (P < 0.01). L-Arg supplementation in maternal diet significantly improved the IgG level at E17 and E21 (1.16%, 1.35%, 1.55%, and 1.74%; P < 0.05), the IgM level at E13 (1.35%, 1.55%, 1.74%, and 1.93%) and E17 (P < 0.05) and the NOS level at E13, E17, and E21 (P < 0.05). Maternal dietary L-Arg supplementation significantly improved the expression of CPS1 gene, OTC gene (1.16%, 1.35%, and 1.55%), and ASS gene (1.35% and 1.55%) in the liver (P < 0.05), and also enhanced the CPS1 gene (except 1.35%) and OTC gene (1.55% and 1.74%) expression in the breast muscle (P < 0.05). In conclusion, maternal Arg level affected the embryonic development of offspring and regulated the apparent metabolic programming and immunity state of the embryo. Arginine level of 1.55% in hens' diet was beneficial to the protein synthesis and immunity of the offspring in the embryonic period, and it was recommended to obtain healthy offspring.

Dietary supplementation with citrus extract alters the plasma parameters, circulating amino acid profiles and gene expression of small intestinal nutrient transporters in Chinese yellow-feathered broilers.

This study evaluated the effects of citrus extract (CE) on growth performance, plasma amino acid (AA) profiles, intestinal development and small intestine AA and peptide transporter expression levels in broilers. A total of 540 one-day-old yellow-feathered broilers were fed a basal diet without any antibiotic (control group), or a basal diet containing 10 mg kg-1 zinc bacitracin (antibiotic group), or a basal diet supplemented with 10 mg kg-1 CE (CE group). After 63 days of feeding, two broilers per pen were slaughtered to collect tissues for further analysis. Results showed that CE increased (P < 0.05) the final body weight and average daily gain from day 1 to 63, and decreased (P < 0.05) the feed/gain ratio from day 1 to 63. Dietary CE supplementation increased (P < 0.05) plasma total protein, albumin and glucose concentration, and decreased (P < 0.05) urea concentration. CE supplementation increased (P < 0.05) the villus height in the ileum and the villus height/crypt depth in the jejunum and ileum, but decreased (P < 0.05) the crypt depth in the jejunum and ileum. CE supplementation increased (P < 0.05) most plasma essential AA concentrations. Additionally, CE supplementation upregulated (P < 0.05) ASCT1, b0,+ AT, B0 AT1, EAAT3, rBAT, y+ LAT2 and PepT1 expression in the jejunum, and b0,+ AT, EAAT3, rBAT, y+ LAT2, CAT1 and PepT1 in the ileum. Collectively, our results indicated that CE supplementation promotes intestinal physiological absorption of AAs by upregulating gene expression of small intestinal key AA and peptide transporters, thereby enhancing the growth performance of broilers. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Marker changes of blood plasma proteinogram in rats with toxic hepatitis

In recent years, there has been a pronounced tendency to increase in the incidence of drug-induced liver damage due to the growing expansion of the pharmaceutical market, which is also observed in the case of incorrect administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In this case, the violation of the functional state of the body has a negative effect on synthetic processes, which in combination with the protein system of tissues significantly affects the metabolic homeostasis of the body. Therefore, the aim of the study was to determine marker changes in the plasma protein spectrum in laboratory rats with diclofenac-induced hepatitis and the effectiveness of reparative therapy based on milk phospholipids. The drug form of toxic hepatitis in laboratory animals was induced according to the author’s model by oral administration of diclofenac sodium (NSAID group) at a dose of 12.5 mg/kg, once a day for 14 days. Thus, in rats with toxic hepatitis there was a probable decrease in plasma total protein content by 15.6% compared with control, indicating a violation of protein-synthesizing function of the liver. With the introduction into the body of clinically healthy and sick animals of the liposomal form of the bioadditive "FLP-MD" based on milk phospholipids, the level of total protein in blood plasma corresponded to control values. As a result of the study of the plasma protein spectrum of Wistar rats, the four most sensitive indicators, which undergo significant probable changes in absolute and relative units of measurement with the development of toxic diclofenac-induced hepatitis, are protein fractions with molecular weights of 180–190, 150–170, 60 and 54–58 kDa and four markers of the effectiveness of restoring the protein-synthesizing function of the liver with the use of corrective therapy, in particular, bioadditives "FLP-MD" – 900, 180–190, 68–70 kDa and the value of A/G ratio, which is important for implementation in applied veterinary medicine, especially in the diagnosis of NSAID hepatopathy, supplementing the picture of its pathogenesis at the molecular level and testing the effectiveness of newly created drugs of hepatoprotective profile.

Administering dexamethasone to prepartum sows: Effects on sow and piglet performance

There is a considerable gap in available literature regarding the use of prepartum steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (SAIDs) despite their ability to provide a targeted response to pain. The aim of this investigation was to determine whether prepartum administration of dexamethasone to sows would influence farrowing and/or lactation processes, with the prediction that it would affect both sow and piglet performance. Sows were induced to farrow on day 113 of gestation (2 days before their 115 day due date) and were treated with dexamethasone concurrent with induction (DexInd; n = 20), 24 h after induction (Dex24; n = 20), at induction and 24 h later (Dextwice; n = 19) or no steroid treatment (Control; n = 20). Treating with dexamethasone at induction reduced birth and weaning weights (P = 0.001), plasma total protein concentrations (P = 0.001), and colostrum intake of piglets of multiparous sows (P = 0.006). Treating with dexamethasone 24 h after induction did not adversely affect piglet weights or plasma total protein and improved average daily gain in piglets (P = 0.001). Although no differences were observed for farrowing duration or piglet survival (P > 0.05), further investigation is required using higher parity sows to qualify whether glucocorticoids can improve farrowing performance.

Comparative Plasma Endocrine, Metabolic and Mineral Profile of Cyclic, Acyclic, Endometritic and Pregnant Buffaloes

Circulating concentrations of hormones, metabolites, and minerals reflect the physio-pathological status of reproduction in animals. This study was carried out on infertile (anestrus, endometritic), normal healthy cyclic and pregnant buffaloes to evaluate the comparative plasma progesterone (P4) and estrogen (E2) hormones, plasma total protein, total cholesterol, calcium, and phosphorus profile. The study showed higher mean plasma E2 and lower P4 levels in the follicular phase of estrous cycle in buffaloes. Significantly (p less than 0.05) higher mean plasma P4 level and lower E2 levels were recorded during the luteal phase and in endometritic and pregnant buffaloes. Total plasma protein concentration was non-significantly higher in normal cyclic than acyclic and endometritic buffaloes. It was also comparatively lower in buffalo with 9 months of pregnancy than 3 and 6 months of pregnancy. The mean plasma total cholesterol level was significantly (p less than 0.05) higher in pregnant than acyclic and endometritic buffaloes. Cyclic buffaloes had significantly (p less than 0.05) higher mean plasma calcium levels than acyclic buffaloes. Plasma phosphorus concentration, however, did not show any significant difference between different stages of the reproductive cycle.

Purification of canine albumin by heat denaturation in a plasma bag.

To design and evaluate a method to purify canine albumin from fresh frozen plasma (FFP) or stored plasma (SP) in a manner that could be applied clinically. In vitro experimental study. FDA licensed Blood Bank Laboratory and University biochemistry laboratory. None. Using equipment that is typically found in veterinary blood banks, plasma bags were thawed, injected with the heat stabilizing agent, sodium caprylate, and then heated and acidified to denature all but albumin proteins. Albumin-rich supernatant was removed, the pH was neutralized, and then pasteurized and refrigerated. Albumin and total plasma protein concentrations were measured and the product was cultured for bacteria at 0, 7, 14, 30, and 60 days post-processing. Seventeen bags of plasma were analyzed for purity, yield, and sterility of the finished albumin product. Bags were divided into categories based on the age of the frozen plasma. Mean yield of albumin for all bags was 77.3% and mean purity was 91.2%. There was no difference between old stored plasma, new stored plasma, and FFP with regard to yield (P=0.31) or purity (P=0.24) based on one-way analysis of variances. Overall 1 of 17 bags of plasma (5.9%) tested positive for bacterial contamination on day 60 after processing. Sodium caprylate is able to stabilize canine albumin enabling it to withstand heating that denatures other plasma proteins. The resulting albumin product is of sufficient quality to potentially be used therapeutically as a colloidal resuscitative fluid. Further study is needed into its safety and effect in dogs.

Effects of colostrum instead of formula feeding for the first 2 days postnatum on whole-body energy metabolism and its endocrine control in neonatal calves

Colostrum provides high amounts of nutritive and non-nutritive substrates, which are essential for calf nutrition and passive immunization. Colostral growth factors and hormones have beneficial effects on postnatal maturation and may affect substrate utilization and energy expenditure in neonatal calves. We tested the hypothesis that energy metabolism and its endocrine regulation differ during the first 10 d of life in calves fed either colostrum or a milk-based formula with a similar nutrient composition to colostrum, but largely depleted of bioactive substances, for the first 2 d postnatum. Male Holstein calves (n = 18) were fed either pooled colostrum (COL; n = 9) or a milk-based formula (FOR; n = 9) for the first 2 d of life. From d 3 on, all calves received same milk replacer. On d 2 and 7 of life, calves were placed in a respiration chamber for indirect calorimetric measurements to calculate heat production, fat (FOX) and carbohydrate oxidation (COX), as well as respiratory quotient. Blood was sampled on d 1 before first colostrum intake and on d 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, and 10 before morning feeding, to measure plasma concentrations of immunoglobulins, metabolites, and hormones. Additional postprandial blood samples were taken on d 1 and 9 at 30, 60, 120, 240, and 420 min after milk feeding. Liver samples were collected on d 10 of life to determine gene expression related to energy metabolism. Formula-fed calves showed lower plasma concentrations of total protein, immunoglobulins, haptoglobin, leptin, adiponectin, and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein (IGFBP)-4 during the whole study but temporarily higher plasma concentrations of urea, insulin, glucagon, triglyceride, and cholesterol on the first day after feeding, compared with concentrations in COL. The temporary increase in glucagon, triglyceride, and cholesterol on d 1 reversed on d 2 or 3, showing higher concentrations in COL than in FOR calves. In FOR, IGF-I, IGFBP-2, and IGFBP-3 were lower on d 3 than in COL. Interestingly, FOR calves had higher heat production during respiratory measurements on d 2 and higher body temperature on d 2, 3, and 5 than those of COL. The hepatic mRNA abundance of cytosolic phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase was higher in FOR than in COL. Our results indicate that first milk feeding after birth influenced whole-body energy expenditure but not FOX and COX in neonatal calves, and the absorption of colostral leptin and adiponectin might affect insulin sensitivity on d 1 of life.

Dietary lysine affects amino acid metabolism and growth performance, which may not involve the GH/IGF-1 axis, in young growing pigs1.

Lysine is the first limiting amino acid (AA) in typical swine diets. Our previous research showed that dietary lysine restriction compromised the growth performance of late-stage finishing pigs, which was associated with the changes in plasma concentrations of nutrient metabolites and hormone insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). This study was conducted to investigate how dietary lysine restriction affects the plasma concentrations of selected metabolites and three anabolic hormones in growing pigs. Twelve individually penned young barrows (Yorkshire × Landrace; 22.6 ± 2.04 kg) were randomly assigned to two dietary treatments (n = 6). Two corn and soybean meal based diets were formulated to contain 0.65% and 0.98% standardized ileal digestible lysine as a lysine-deficient (LDD) and a lysine-adequate (LAD) diets, respectively. During the 8-week feeding trial, pigs had ad libitum access to water and their respective diets, and the growth performance parameters including average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and gain-to-feed ratio (G:F) were determined. At the end of the trial, jugular vein blood was collected for plasma preparation. The plasma concentrations of free AA and six metabolites were analyzed with the established chemical methods, and the hormone concentrations were analyzed with the commercial ELISA kits. Data were analyzed with Student's t-test. The ADG of LDD pigs was lower (P < 0.01) than that of LAD pigs, and so was the G:F (P < 0.05) since there was no difference in the ADFI between the two groups of pigs. In terms of free AA, the plasma concentrations of lysine, methionine, leucine, and tyrosine were lower (P < 0.05), while that of β-alanine was higher (P < 0.01), in the LDD pigs. The total plasma protein concentration was lower (P < 0.02) in the LDD pigs, whereas no differences were observed for the other metabolites between the two groups. No differences were observed in the plasma concentrations of growth hormone (GF), insulin, and IGF-1 between the two groups as well. These results indicate that the lack of lysine as a protein building block must be the primary reason for a reduced body protein synthesis and, consequently, the compromised G:F ratio and ADG. The changes in the plasma concentrations of total protein and four AA suggest that the compromised growth performance might be associated with some cell signaling and metabolic pathways that may not involve the GH/IGF-1 axis.

Identifying hydric, electrolytic and acid-base imbalances through traditional and quantitative approaches in dogs with hemorrhagic gastroenteritis

ABSTRACT Vomiting and diarrhea are two important clinical signs that can cause significant electrolytic and acid-base imbalances. The purposes of this study were to characterize hydric, electrolytic and acid-base disorders presented by puppies with hemorrhagic gastroenteritis and to compare the traditional and quantitative approaches to acid-base status interpretation. Sixty-one animals with a history of vomiting and/or diarrhea were used in this study and the following tests were performed: complete blood count, total plasma protein concentration and hemogasometry. Mean, standard deviation and Kappa values were calculated. The imbalances characterized by both approaches were: 42 (69%) animals without imbalance, 17 (28%) with metabolic alkalosis and 2 (3%) with metabolic acidosis by the traditional approach and 17 (28%) dogs without imbalance, 26 (43%) with metabolic alkalosis and 18 (29%) with metabolic acidosis by the quantitative approach. The agreement calculated between two approaches coincide in 28 cases, with a moderate Kappa value equivalent to 0.459. The most found imbalances were metabolic alkalosis, hypokalemia, and mild dehydration. Most of acid-base disturbances were not identified by the traditional approach, whereas by the quantitative approach, they were easily determined. Thus quantitative approach proved to be superior in identification of possible acid-base imbalances.

Evaluating the efficacy of plant-specific fungus (Piriformospora indica) rich in mannan oligosaccharides as a microbial feed additive on growth performance, protein digestibility, plasma characteristics, intestinal microflora, and morphology in chicks

ABSTRACT The aim of current trial was to investigate the efficacy of a new plant-specific fungus (Piriformospora indica) rich in mannan as a fungal feed additive in chicks. A control diet was formulated and 5 incremental levels (0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 g/kg of diet) of P. indica and 750 mg/kg of diet yeast culture or 500 mg/kg L. acidophilus were added to the control diet. Different characteristics and responses were measured during experimental period. P. indica inclusion increased BW and significantly decreased FCR (P ≤ 0.01) but had no effect on feed intake. P. indica significantly enhanced blood glucose level and reduced cholesterol, LDL, total protein, albumin and uric acid concentration of plasma (P ≤ 0.01; P ≤ 0.05). Higher villus height and thinner crypt depth were obtained in chicks fed 0.6 g P. indica in comparison with the chicks fed control diet or diets containing Lactobacillus acidophilus or yeast culture. Protein digestibility was enhanced in chicks fed yeast culture or 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 g of P. indica (P ≥ 0.001). Gizzard pH was increased and ileal pH was decreased and the relative weight of carcass, bursa of Fabricius and thymus were increased by inclusion of P. indica.

PERFORMANCE, PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AND CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS OF GROWING CALIFORNI RABBITS REARED in DIFFERENT CAGE DENSITIES.

The current study was carried out into two separate experiments to study the effect of different cage densities on growth performance, physiological parameters and carcass characteristics of growing rabbits. Thirty-six of six-week-old weaned California males and females were used. Both males and females were divided into three different cage density treatments, one animal (single), two animals (double) or three animals (triple) per cage. Feed intake was daily recorded, while body weight weekly measured. In addition, both daily gain and feed conversion ratio are calculated weekly. At the end of the experiments blood samples were collected from all animals, plasma cortisol total protein, albumin, and glucose were measured. At the end of experiment all meals were slaughtered for carcass weight, measurements, parts and individual muscle weight were recorded. The most remarkable results are, high cage density (double and/or triple) significantly decreased (P<0.05) feed intake, body weight and daily gain in both males and females. On the other hand, low cage density improved feed conversion ratio(P<0.01) in males only. On the other hand, high cage density increases (P<0.05) plasma cortisol, total protein, globulin and glucose concentration. In addition, high density cages treatments decrease (P<0.05) carcass weight, measurements, carcass parts and individual muscle weight. The current study revealed that rearing both meals and females in single cages during growing period improve their performance and carcass characteristics.

Efficacy of Allium sativum oil to alleviate tebuconazol-induced oxidative stress in the liver of adult rats

The present study focused on the protective efficacy of Allium sativum oil (ASO) against tebuconazol (TEB)-induced oxidative stress in the liver of adult rats. Thirty-two rats were randomly divided into four groups of eight each: group I served as control rats, group II was treated with TEB (100 mg/kg bw), group III received ASO (5ml/kg bw). The animals of group IV were treated with TEB and ASO, during 4 weeks. The obtained results showed that TEB induced a significant change of some hematological parameters, including red blood cells (RBC), haemoglobin content (Hb), haematocrit (Ht), white blood cells (WBC) and platelet (Plt) compared to the control group. Moreover, while the total cholesterol levels and the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and γ-Glutamyltranspeptidase (γGT) significantly increased due to TEB administration, the concentrations of plasma total protein, albumin and triglyceride considerably decreased. Furthermore, the exposure to TEB significantly increased the malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PCO) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) levels and decreased glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activities in the hepatic tissues. The results were confirmed by the histological impairments. Besides, the co-administration of ASO improved the status of all studied parameters. Therefore, our investigation revealed that ASO had protective effects against TEB-induced liver injury, which could be attributed to its phenolic compounds.

Production and metabolic consequences of high-energy and low-crude-protein diet fed to 49-wk-old Shaver white leghorn without or with top-dressed organic selenium

Production and metabolic consequences of feeding 49-wk-old Shaver white hens a high-energy low-crude-protein (HELP) diet were investigated over 6 wk. The test diets included standard diet [2750 kcal kg−1apparent metabolizable energy (AME) and 17.5% crude protein (CP)], HELP (3000 kcal kg−1of AME and 13.0% CP) diet, and HELP top dressed with selenium (HELP + Se). All diets had 0.3 mg Se kg−1as part of premix. Hens (33) were procured, three birds necropsied for baseline liver samples, and the rest placed in individual cages and allocated diets (n = 10). Feed intake (FI), hen day egg production (HDEP), and egg weight (EW) were monitored weekly. Plasma and liver samples were collected from all birds. Birds fed standard and HELP diets had similar (P &gt; 0.05) FI (with exception of weeks 4 and 5) and HDEP, whereas HELP + Se depressed (P &lt; 0.05) feed and nutrient intake at weeks 5 and 6, HDEP, and EW. There were no (P &gt; 0.05) diet effects on hepatic weight and crude fat content. Birds fed HELP diets had lower (P &gt; 0.05) concentration of plasma total protein, macrominerals, and some enzymes. Overall, HELP diet had minimal impact on production and metabolism; however, addition of Se had negative effects on hen performance.

IMPACT OF PARTIAL REPLACEMENT OF ALFALFA HAY WITH PRICKLY PEAR PEELS ( PPPS) ON PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF RABBITS.

Forty New Zealand white rabbits (NZW) male rabbits weighed 500+6 g were used in the present study to determine the effect of using residues prickly pear peels of a source of dietary feedstuffs on productive performance, digestibility, some blood constituents and Economic efficiency of rabbit. The animals were divided into four experimental groups of 10 rabbits each. The experimental diets replacing hay with prickly pear peels (ppps) at portion ( 0.0, ,25, 50 and 75%)) respectively. Results obtained could be summarized as follow: The final live body weight, total weight gain and performance index were significantly (p> 0.05) affected by experimental treatment groups. The highest (p> 0.05) values of live body weight, total weight gain and performance index were recorded by rabbits fed 75 % (ppps) Inclusion (1986.5g, 1489g and 73.30 %) followed by received Inclusion level 50 % (ppps) ( 1946.97g, 1416.37g and 68.31 %), respectively compared with the 25 % (ppps) ( 1836.97g, 1339.37g and 59.45 %) or control ( 1778.75g, 1283.45g and 53.74 %),respectively. Feed intake (g), protein intake, and digestible energy intake were significantly (p> 0.05) decreased with increasing (ppps) levels. Rabbits fed (ppps) (75%) diet recorded a significant bester feed conversion ratio (FCR) value followed by those of 50 %, 25 and control respectively. Digestibility coefficient and nutritive values (DM, CP, CF, TDN and DE) were significantly improved for rabbits fed diet contained (ppps) compared to those fed the control diet. Cecal PH value and NH3 –N concentrations were higher (p> 0.05) in the control group than those of the treatment groups. Concentration of TVFAS was lower in control whereas the highest was obtained by treatment 75 % of (ppps) (p> 0.05). Also inclusion of tested material significantly (p> 0.05) increased dressing percentage and carcass weight. Plasma concentrations of total proteins, albumin and globulin were increased (p> 0.05) whereas ALT, AST, total lipids, total cholesterol, HDL and LDL were decreased (p> 0.05) by treatments of (ppps). The best Economical efficiency and relative economical efficiency values were recorded with rabbits fed 75 % (ppps) inclusion followed by rabbits received 50 % and 25 % treatment of (ppps) respectively it could be concluded that replacing hay with prickly pear peels (ppps) at portion (25, 50 and 75%) into diets recorded the beneficial growth performance, nutrients digestibility, and the best Economical efficiency of NZW Rabbits.

The long-term oral administration of thyroxine: effects on blood hematological and biochemical features in broiler breeder hens

Published data on the beneficial effect of short-term administration of thyroxine (T4) in broiler breeder hens to reduce the ascites incidence in their progeny chicks raises the question as to what extent might the long-term maternal administration of T4 affect the blood hematological and biochemical attributes in breeder hens. A total of 70 broiler breeder hens (47-wk-old) were randomly allotted to control or thyroxine treated (T4) groups. Pure T4 (0.3 mg/bird per day) was orally administered to T4 birds for 14 successive weeks, whereas the control group received the drinking water only. Blood samples were obtained from the brachial vein prior to the initiation of the trial as well as weeks 50, 53, 55, 57, 59, and 61 of age. Body weight was decreased but egg production was not affected by T4 treatment. Plasma concentration of T4, but not triiodothyronine (T3), was increased in T4-treated hens (P < 0.05). The total number of leukocytes and erythrocytes were also higher in T4 birds. A significant effect of time was observed for erythrocyte number and plasma cholesterol concentration (P < 0.05). The long-term administration of T4 did not affect the concentrations of serum calcium and plasma total protein, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein, very low density lipoprotein, alanine amino transferase, and aspartate amino transferase (P > 0.05). However, serum concentrations of phosphorus, glucose, and alkaline phosphatase were higher in T4 hens as compared to their control counterparts. In spite of differences in circulatory concentrations of a number of traits between the experimental groups, the recorded values were within their reference ranges. Therefore, the administration of T4 for an extended period of time had no apparent adverse effect on the clinical profile in subjected hens, which may practically support the implementation of this preventative treatment as an approach to decrease the ascites incidence; however, a lower incidence rate in the progeny chicks produced from hens receiving T4 for long-term periods of time remains to be elucidated.

GROWTH PERFORMANCE, NUTRIENTS DIGESTIBILITY AND CARCASS MEASUREMENTS OF GROWING RABBITS FED DIETS INCORPORATED WITH LENTIL OR CHICKPEA SCREENING BY-PRODUCTS.

This work aimed to study the influence of replacement 15 or 30% of soybean meal protein by either lentil screening by-products protein (LSBP) or chickpea screening by-products protein (CSBP) on performance, nutrients digestibility, plasma parameters, carcass measurements and economic profitability of growing rabbits. Sixty New Zealand White (NZW) growing rabbits, six weeks of age, were divided to five experimental groups. Each group included four replicates (three rabbits each) as follow: control group fed basal diet without LSBP or CSBP; the 2nd, 3th, 4th and 5th groups of rabbits fed 15% LSBP, 30% LSBP, 15% CSBP and 30% CSBP diets, respectively. Results showed that LSBP has lower DM, OM and EE contents than CSBP. Meanwhile, LSBP has higher CP, CF, ash% and GE (kcal/kg) contents compared to CSBP. LSBP was higher in arginine, threonine, isoleucine, and lysine. Meantime, CSBP had higher contents in leucine, methionine and phenylalanine as predominant essential amino acids. Inclusion of LSBP and CSBP insignificantly improved FBW, BWG and FCR. However, average daily feed intake of rabbits fed 15% CSBP was higher (P<0.05) than those fed 30% CSBP. No significant differences were observed in all nutrients digestibility (DM, OM, CP, EE and NFE) and nutritive values expressed as DCP%, TDN% and DE Kcal/kg between groups of rabbits fed LSBP and CSBP diets and those fed the control diet. Meanwhile, group of rabbits fed 30% LSBP had higher (P<0.05) CP digestibility. Conversely, group of rabbits fed 30% CSBP recorded the lowest (P<0.05) CP digestibility. Significant higher (P<0.05) values of plasma total protein and albumin concentrations were recorded for rabbits fed diets contained 30% LSBP, 15 or 30% CSBP than the control group. Moreover, there were insignificant differences in globulin and uric acid among all the experimental groups. Regarding liver functions (AST and ALT), there was a significant decrease (P<0.05) in AST levels with rabbits fed 30% LSBP and 15 or 30% CSBP compared to the control group. No significant differences in most carcass measurements were found between rabbits fed different levels of LSBP and CSBP diets and those fed the control diet except heart, kidneys weights and total edible parts %. The inclusion of LSBP at a level of 15% significantly decreased (P<0.05) total edible parts % compared with the inclusion of 30% CSBP and the control group. The net revenue improved by 4.16, 7.75, 3.43 and 9.52% for 15% LSBP, 30% LSBP, 15% CSBP and 30% CSBP, respectively. The best net revenue and economical efficiency were recorded by 30% CSBP diet followed by 30%LSBP, 15%LSBP, 15% CSBP diets and the lowest one was the control group. In conclusion, lentil or chickpea screening by-products protein could be used up to 30% substitution level for soybean meal protein without any detrimental effects on performance, nutrient digestibility, plasma parameters and carcass measurements of growing rabbits.

Flaxseed extrusion and expansion coupled with enzyme and pelleting changed protein and lipid molecular structure of flaxseed and improved digestive enzymes activity, intestinal morphology, breast muscle fatty acids and performance of broiler chickens

An experiment was performed as a completely randomized design in a 4 × 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with 4 replicates of 15 chicks in each pen to investigate the effects of flaxseed extrusion and expansion accompanying with enzyme addition in mash or pelleted diets on protein and lipid molecular structure spectral and performance characteristics of broiler chickens. Factors included were four types of flaxseed: control (corn-soybean meal based diet with no flaxseed), raw flaxseed (RF, 200 g/kg), extruded flaxseed (ETF, 200 g/kg) and expanded flaxseed (EPF, 200 g/kg); two levels of carbohydrase enzyme (0 or 25 mg/kg) and two forms of diet (pellet or mash). Performance criteria, protein and lipid molecular structures, blood biochemical characteristics, digestive enzymes activity and nutrient digestibility, cecal microbial population and breast muscle fatty acids profile were evaluated during the trial. EPF increased BW and reduced FCR compared to the RF and ETF throughout the experimental period (0–28 d., P ≤ 0.001). Pelleting the diets increased BW, improved feed consumption and reduced FCR in comparison to the mash diets fed chicks (P ≤ 0.001). Enzyme addition had no impact on BW, FCR and feed intake of chickens. Both EPF and ETF reduced α-helix and increased ß-sheet height and increased CH3 asymmetric stretching compared to raw flaxseed (P < 0.05). Distinct spectral differences were detected between RF and processed flaxseed and also diets containing the processed flaxseed. Digestive lipase and alkaline phosphatase activity were increased when chicks were fed with diets containing EPF and ETF (P ≤ 0.003). Total alkaline protease (APA) was reduced by inclusion of RF. Plasma total protein concentration was significantly increased and triglyceride and HDL cholesterol levels were reduced in chicks fed with flaxseed included diets (P ≤ 0.05). Except for villus to crypt ratio which was increased (P ≤ 0.05) by RF addition, no significant differences were observed in intestinal morphological characteristics by flaxseed processing, pelleting the diets and enzyme supplementation. Apparent total tract lipid and calcium digestibility were increased (P ≤ 0.001) and phosphorus digestibility was reduced as RF incorporated to the diets. Salmonella and E. coli population were considerably reduced by ETF and EPF (P ≤ 0.001). The total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were increased and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) were reduced in breast muscle by feeding the flaxseed containing diets regardless of flaxseed processing (P ≤ 0.01). Long chain n-3 fatty acids (18:3 n-3; 20:5 n-3; 22:5 n-3 and 22:6 n-3) were increased and n-6 to n-3 ratio was reduced with inclusion of flaxseed regardless of processing conditions (P≤0.01). Myristic, palmitic and stearic acid content of breast muscle were reduced (P ≤ 0.01) in EPF included diets. In conclusion the findings suggest that expansion of flaxseed is beneficial for inclusion of high levels of flaxseed in broiler rations and for meat enrichment with n-3 fatty acids.

Effects of Horse Housing System on Energy Balance during Post-Exercise Recovery.

Simple SummaryHorse management aims to keep horses healthy and ensure good performance and animal welfare. Many horses are currently kept in individual box stalls indoors, a housing system that limits free movement, exploration, and social interaction, and may also subject horses to lower air quality. The alternative is a free-range housing system where horses are kept in groups outdoors. Anecdotal information indicates concerns among sports horse trainers that lack of rest in such systems delays recovery and impairs performance. This study examined whether recovery after competition-like exercise in Standardbred trotters was affected by housing system. The results showed that a free-range housing system did not delay recovery in Standardbred trotters, and in fact had positive effects on appetite and recovery of energy balance.This study examined the effects of two housing systems (free-range and box stalls) on recovery of energy balance after competition-like exercise in Standardbred horses. Eight adult geldings (mean age 11 years) were used. The study had a change-over design, with the box stall (BOX) and free-range group housing (FreeR) treatments each run for 21 days. The horses were fed forage ad libitum and performed two similar race-like exercise tests (ET), on day 7 and day 14 in each treatment. Forage intake was recorded during the last 6–7 days in each period. Blood samples were collected before, during, and until 44 h after ET. Voluntary forage intake (measured in groups with four horses in each group) was higher in FreeR horses than BOX horses (FreeR: 48, BOX: 39, standard error of the mean (SEM) 1.7 kg (p = 0.003)). Plasma non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) was lower at 20–44 h of recovery than before in FreeR horses (p = 0.022), but not in BOX horses. Housing did not affect exercise heart rate, plasma lactate, plasma urea, or total plasma protein concentration. Thus the free-range housing system hastened recovery in Standardbred trotters, contradicting anecdotal claims that it delays recovery. The free-range housing also had positive effects on appetite and recovery of energy balance.

Hematological and biochemical parameters in Spotted Paca (Cuniculus paca) undergoing pharmacological restraint and general anesthesia

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to assess the effects of chemical restraint, general anesthesia and opioid treatment on hematological components in Cuniculus paca. Eight healthy, adult, captivity female animals , underwent three laparoscopic procedures with a 15-day interval were evaluated. After physical restraint, an association of ketamine (25mg/kg) and midazolam (0.5mg/kg) was administered intramuscularly for chemical restraint. Posteriorly, anesthesia was induced and maintained with isoflurane; and randomly administered methadone (0.5mg/kg), tramadol (5mg/kg) or saline-placebo (0,1mL/kg) intramuscularly. After pharmacological restraint and in the final laparoscopy stage, venous blood samples were obtained for complete blood count, total plasma protein (TP), creatinine, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), sodium, potassium, chloride and ionized calcium analysis. During general anesthesia, hemoglobin, TP concentration and lymphocytes decreased (P=0.029; &lt;0.001; 0.022 respectively), whereas the potassium levels increased (P=0.034). In conclusion, chemical restraint with ketamine/midazolam association causes a slight decrease in blood cellular components. Isoflurane anesthesia for laparoscopic procedure lead to decrease in hemoglobin, lymphocytes and protein concentrations, while potassium increased, without any influence from the tramadol or methadone treatment. However, these alterations were transient, and its hematologic values can collaborate in carrying out epidemiological, pathophysiological or case studies in the Cuniculus paca.

Dietary protein requirement of juvenile kelp grouper ( Epinephelus moara )

Dietary protein requirement of juvenile kelp grouper Epinephelus moara was investigated through a feeding trial. Experimental diets with graded crude protein (CP) levels (33.01%, 38.54%, 45.21%, 50.71%, 56.10% and 63.09% of dry matter respectively) were formulated. Six triplicate groups of fish (20 individuals per replicate with initial mean weight 6.00 g) were fed with each diet for 8 weeks. Best growth performance of fish was detected in 56.10% CP diet. The specific growth rate (SGR) significantly elevated with increasing dietary CP level to 50.71%, but there was no significant difference thereafter (p < .05). The feed conversion ratio (FCR) decreased significantly with dietary CP levels from 33.01% to 56.10% (p < .05). Glucose (GLU) and total protein (TP) concentrations in plasma had an increasing trend with dietary protein increasing. In the 33.01% CP group, plasma triglyceride (TG) content was significantly higher (1.67 mmol/L) than that in other dietary treatments (0.65–1.14 mmol/L). The lowest alanine transaminase (ALT) activity was observed in the 56.10% CP group (163.16 U/L). Crude lipid content in the muscle and liver was significantly elevated with increasing dietary protein levels (p < .05). The glycogen content in the liver decreased significantly as CP levels increased (p < .05). The fish fed diet with higher CP level (56.10% and 63.09%) had significantly higher energy retention (ER) and lipid retention (LR) than other treatments. Based on the broken-line regression analysis of SGR and FCR, the optimal dietary protein requirement for juvenile kelp grouper is 54.61%–56.22%.