Total Plasma Protein Research Articles

A study of the potential effect of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) substitution for fish meal on growth, immune and antioxidant capacity in juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of partial replacement of fish meal (FM) with yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor, TM) on the growth performance, food utilization and intestinal immune response of juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Seven diets containing increasing levels of TM (FM substitution) were designed (approximately 0% (0%), 4% (11.1%), 8.1% (22.2%), 12.2% (33.3%), 16.3% (44.4%), 20.4% (55.5%), and 24.5% (66.6%), designated TM0, TM11, TM22, TM33, TM44, TM55, and TM66, respectively). 420 fish were randomly selected and placed in 21 cages (1 m*1 m*1 m, 7 treatments for triplicate, 20 fish per cage). Fish (initial weight 6.25 ± 0.03 g) were fed seven isonitrogenous (47%) and isocaloric (19 MJ kg−1) diets to satiety twice daily for 8 weeks. Compared to the control group (TM0), TM11 showed no significant difference in the weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR) or feed conversion ratio (FCR), while all other TM inclusion groups presented different degrees of decline. There was no significant difference in the whole-body composition among all groups (P > 0.05). Plasma total protein (TP), triglyceride (TG) and albumin (ALB) contents were significantly decreased in TM55 and TM66 (P < 0.05). The highest plasma aspartate transaminase (AST) activity was observed in TM66 (P < 0.05). TM33, TM44 and TM55 showed the lowest activities of plasma alanine amiotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (P < 0.05). Moreover, increased mRNA levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were measured in the TM11 to TM55 groups, while intestinal SOD activity peaked in TM11 (P < 0.05). With the exception of TM11, the other TM inclusion groups showed significant inhibition of the relative expression of RelA, C3 and TNF-α (P < 0.05). All experimental groups exhibited lower expression of IL-10 than TM0 (P < 0.05). The TM11 group showed significantly upregulated expression of IL-1β and TGF-β (P < 0.05). In addition, TLR2 expression was increased in TM11 and TM22 (P < 0.05). Considering enzyme activities and immune-related gene expression, TM supplementation levels should not exceed 4% (TM11).

Reducing ammonia emission by aluminum sulfate addition in litter and its influence on productive, reproductive, and physiological parameters of dual-purpose breeding hens.

This research investigated the impact of aluminum sulfate (AS) as amendment to different types of litter (new, reused, and mixed litters) for reducing ammonia emission and improving productive performance of local dual-purpose breeding hens. A total of 450 hens and 60 cocks from the Inshas strain were randomly assigned to six groups (five replicates each of 15 hens + 2 cocks) raised in pen floor furnished with a wheat straw litter. The groups included: (1) new, (2) reused, (3) mixed (50% new + 50% reused) litter; the other groups (4, 5 and 6) were respectively housed on the same litter as groups 1, 2 and 3 but with the addition of 495g of AS/m2 litter. The feed conversion ratio was better for layers raised on new litter with or without AS than other groups. Different kinds of litter had different moisture (p < 0.05) and pH (p < 0.05) values. Birds raised on litter types treated with AS significantly (p < 0.05) decreased intestinal pH and decreased total bacterial count compared to the same litter types without AS at the end of the experiment. Birds raised on new litter supplemented with AS had the highest plasma T3, total protein, globulin, Hgb, and PCV% and the lowest levels of uric acid and cholesterol at the end of the experimental period. Therefore, litter amendment with AS, also the mixed or reused one, could be recommended to reduce ammonia and, in turn, increasing plasma T3 and decreasing total bacterial count, leading to increasing bird's performance.

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.

Hematological parameters and antibody titers to new castle diseases and avian influenza on extensive and semi-intensive system

The study evaluated the hematological parameters and antibody titers against Newcastle Disease (ND) and Avian Influenza (AI) on native chickens under extensive and semi-intensive rearing in Central Java, Indonesia. The target of the study was native chickens in Banyumas and Kebumen areas. The chickens were reared extensive and semi-intensively. The survey method was carried out by drawing 324 chicken blood samples for hematological tests and measuring antibody titer to ND and AI. The data obtained were analyzed using a general linear model (GLM) with the Systat ver.13 program. The results showed that native chicken in extensive and semi-intensive systems had different physiological statuses (P<0.05). The number of erythrocytes, hemoglobin levels, hematocrit values, total plasma protein levels, and heterophil-lymphocyte ratios was higher on semi-intensive than extensive system. However, the number of leucocytes was relatively high the same (P>0.05). In extensive system rearing, the number of native chickens with effective antibody titers against ND and AI was higher than the semi-intensive. The study concluded that native chickens reared in semi-intensive systems had a healthier physiological status than chickens in extensive systems. However, the effective antibody titers against ND and AI in the extensive and semi-intensive systems were still very low.

The replacement of fish meal with fermented Moringa leaves meal and its effect on the immune response of red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.)

Moringa (Moringa oleifera) has frequently been studied as an alternative and promising protein source in fish feed. Moringa leaves is among the potential and affordable plant-based protein source ingredient, as it protein, vitamin, beta-carotene, and various kind of minerals. Flavonoid, saponin, vitamin and alkaloids reportedly exhibit immune-stimulating activity which increase immune response. This study aims to evaluate the replacement of fish meal with fermented Moringa leaves meal in feed on the immune response of red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.). The research was conducted experimentally using a completely randomized design by four treatments in triplicate. The treatments include replacement of the fish meal with fermented moringa leaves meal at 0, 10, 20, and 30 %. Red tilapia with total length of 9 to 10 cm was fed twice daily for two months at a feeding rate of 3 % of total biomass. The results showed that replacement fish meal with fermented Moringa leaves meal as much as 20 % increases the percentage values of hematocrit and leukocrit, stimulates phagocytic activity and phagocytic index, suppresses monocyte and increases lymphocytes, and increases total plasma protein.

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.

Use of Chemical Nano-Selenium as an Antibacterial and Antifungal Agent in Quail Diets and Its Effect on Growth, Carcasses, Antioxidant, Immunity and Caecal Microbes.

Simple SummaryThe chemical Nano-Selenium (Che-SeNPs) is a good example of applied nanotechnology used in the area of nutritional supplements due to its advantages and properties. From our results, dietary supplementation with Che-SeNPs could improve the performance of growing quails; the best level was 0.4 g Che-SeNPs/kg feed. Thus, this study supports the application of Che-SeNPs in quail diets in an effort to improve the productive and physiological performance. The results revealed that Che-SeNPs boosts the growth, blood biochemistry, antioxidant indices, immunity, and bacterial environment of the intestine of quail.Nano-minerals are used to enhance mineral bioavailability, which helps improve animal growth and health. The use of chemical nano-selenium (Che-SeNPs) has lately attracted great scientific interest, mainly due to its potential benefits for poultry. The current study was conducted to investigate the impact of the dietary supplementation of Che-SeNPs on the growth performance, carcass traits, blood constituents, antioxidant status, immunity, and gut microbiota of Japanese quails. A total of one week-old 180 Japanese quails were randomly distributed into four equal groups, and each group consisted of 45 unsexed birds with five replications (nine birds each). The first group was fed a basal diet without supplementation (0 g/kg Che-SeNPs), and the second, third, and fourth groups were fed diets containing 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 g/kg Che-SeNPs, respectively. The results showed that the dietary supplementation of Che-SeNPs significantly (p < 0.0001) increased body weight, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio, but decreased feed intake (p < 0.0001) compared to the control group. The highest values of growth performance were recorded in the group fed 0.4 g Che-SeNPs g/kg feed. Che-SeNPs levels did not affect the carcass traits, relative organs (except liver), or blood hematology (except platelet count and hemoglobin level) of quails. Plasma total protein, albumin, aspartate amino transferase (AST), and urea values were not affected by dietary Che-SeNPs, but alanine aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase values declined. Globulin and creatinine values were linearly increased with the inclusion of Che-SeNPs (0.4 and 0.6 g/kg) in quail diets compared to the control. The supplementation of Che-SeNPs in quail diets significantly improved (p < 0.05) the plasma lipid profile and activities of antioxidant enzymes compared to the control group. Immunoglobulin G values of Che-SeNPs (0.4 and 0.6 g/kg) were higher (p < 0.05) than those in the control group. The groups fed diets supplemented with Che-SeNPs showed lower (p < 0.0001) total bacterial count, total yeast and molds count, Coliform, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp., and Salmonella spp. colonization, and higher (p = 0.0003 and 0.0048) lactic acid bacteria counts than those in the control group. In conclusion, Che-SeNPs supplemented up to 0.4 g/kg can improve the performance, lipid profile, antioxidant indices, and immunity, as well as decrease intestinal pathogens in quails during the fattening period (1–5 weeks of age).

Assessment of hemostasis in dogs with gastric-dilation-volvulus, during resuscitation with hydroxyethyl starch (130/0.4) or hypertonic saline (7.5%).

To compare the impact of an IV bolus of hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 (HES) or hypertonic saline 7.5% (HS) on hemostasis in dogs resuscitated for gastric-dilation-volvulus (GDV). Open-label, parallel-group randomized clinical trial. Twenty-three client-owned dogs. Dogs affected by GDV and shock were randomly assigned to receive HES at 10mL/kg or HS at 4mL/kg every 15 minutes. Blood samples were collected for blood gas analysis, PCV, total plasma protein, albumin, standard coagulation profile, and thromboelastometry (ROTEM) at baseline (T0) and at the end of bolus (T1). To assess the differences between the 2 groups at T1, Student's t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used. To evaluate the differences between T0 and T1, ANOVA for paired data or Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-ranks test was used. P<0.05 was considered significant. Hemostasis was evaluated by means of prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, and ROTEM. The study included 13 dogs in the HES group and 10 dogs in the HS group. Differences were found between groups at T1: increase in clotting time (P=0.018) and decrease in fibrinogen level (P=0.021) in the HS-treated group. Between T0 and T1, there were differences for the HES group: increase in clot formation time (P=0.046), decrease in maximum clot firmness (P=0.002) in ex-TEM profile, and decrease in maximum clot firmness (P=0.0117) in fib-TEM profile. Between T0 and T1, the following differences were noted for the HS group: increase in clotting time (P=0.048) and clot formation time (P=0.0019), decrease in maximum clot firmness (P=0.031) and α angle (P=0.036) in ex-TEM profile, decrease in α angle (P=0.036) in in-TEM profile, and decrease in maximum clot firmness (P=0.017) in fib-TEM profile. In dogs affected by GDV, HES or HS infusion caused a similar tendency toward hypocoagulability, with few differences between the 2 groups.

Tolerance and osmotic response to food deprivation and salt loading in the herbivorous non-drinking Moroccan Spiny-tailed lizard Uromastyx nigriventris (Sauria: Agamidae)

Abstract Animals inhabiting arid environments use a variety of behavioural and physiological strategies to balance their water and salt budgets. We studied the effects of dehydration and salt loading on osmoregulatory capacities in a large herbivorous desert lizard, the Moroccan Spiny-tailed lizard Uromastyx nigriventris, the family Agamidae. These lizards select plants with a high K+ to Na+ ratio of 15 to 20, and like other herbivorous lizards, effectively eliminate the extra electrolyte load, mainly via a pair of active nasal salt glands, which exude the extra ions from blood. Here we present results of a series of laboratory experiments, which tested a five-week food and water deprivation and the excretory response of nasal salt glands, during a short period of five days, following salt loading by two separated injections of KCl or NaCl at a 5-day interval (4th and 9th days). During food-water deprivation, hypohydrated lizards lost 32% of their initial body mass with a substantial decrease of their Body Condition Index and the tail volume as an index of energy (fat and then potential metabolic water) storage. Plasma osmolality significantly increased by 20%. There were also significantly increased plasma sodium, chloride, and total protein concentrations. On the other hand, there was no significant decrease in the plasma glucose level. Most of the salt loaded lizards secreted far more K+ than Na+ via the nasal glands, even after NaCl loading. The K+/Na+ ratio decreased only after two to three repetitive NaCl injections but insufficient Na+ was eliminated. Two successive KCl injections were successfully eliminated, but daily natural average K+ administration induced progressive hyperkaliemia. These experimental data agreed with previous observations showing variations of plasma Na+ and K+ concentrations in free-living lizards. The nasal gland constitutes the main route of Cl− excretion but the Cl−/(Na+ + K+) ratio may vary according to observations in other herbivorous species.

PSIII-15 The interactions of change in nutrition after artificial insemination on plasma metabolites, steroid hormones, and uterine histotroph in beef heifers

Abstract The objective was to evaluate the impact of nutritional changes after artificial insemination (AI) on plasma metabolites, steroid hormones, and uterine histotroph. Beef heifers (n = 50) were randomly assigned to a post-AI dietary treatment (High=161.5% or Low=77.45% of maintenance energy) until uteri were flushed for embryo recovery (d14). Blood samples were collected on d -3, 0 (AI), 3, 6, 9, 12, and 14 for analysis of plasma non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), total protein (protein), glucose, cholesterol, and progesterone concentrations. Uterine flushes (UF) were analyzed for concentrations of Mg, P, S, K, Ca, Cu, Zn, Se, Mn, Co, B, Cr, and Fe. Plasma NEFA, protein, glucose, cholesterol, and progesterone concentrations were analyzed as repeated measures in SAS (PROC MIXED). Mineral concentrations in UF were analyzed using the MIXED procedures in SAS. Diet influenced plasma NEFA concentrations, with Low heifers having elevated concentrations (P &amp;lt; 0.01); however, diet did not influence plasma protein, glucose, cholesterol, or progesterone concentrations (P &amp;gt; 0.10). Plasma NEFA, glucose, and progesterone concentrations changed over time (P &amp;lt; 0.05), but protein and cholesterol did not differ over time (P &amp;gt; 0.10). Diet by time interactions influenced plasma NEFA, protein, and cholesterol concentrations (P &amp;lt; 0.05), but glucose and progesterone concentrations were not different (P &amp;gt; 0.10). Presence of a recovered embryo by time interaction influenced plasma protein concentrations (P &amp;lt; 0.04), but NEFA, glucose, cholesterol, and progesterone concentrations were not affected by the interaction (P &amp;gt; 0.10). Embryo recovery and diet by embryo recovery by time did not impact plasma NEFA, protein, glucose, cholesterol and progesterone concentrations (P &amp;gt; 0.10). When an embryo was recovered, Mg (P = 0.02) and S (P = 0.02) were decreased in UF. Diet and diet by embryo recovery did not affect UF mineral concentrations (P&amp;gt;0.10). In conclusion, post-AI nutrition influenced plasma NEFA, protein, glucose, cholesterol, and progesterone concentrations. Additionally, uterine histotroph mineral concentrations were affected by presence of an embryo.

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.

Assessment of preoperative and postoperative l-lactatemia and clinical outcomes in goats undergoing tube cystostomy: A retrospective study of 34 cases (2015-2020).

BackgroundUrolithiasis in small ruminants has a poor long‐term prognosis, and long‐term clinical outcomes are variable and unpredictable.ObjectivesTo assess the accuracy of preoperative and postoperative blood l‐lactate concentrations in predicting a negative outcome in goats undergoing tube cystostomy.AnimalsThirty‐four male goats undergoing tube cystostomy.MethodsRetrospective study. Medical records of goats undergoing tube cystostomy from 2015 to 2020 were reviewed. Clinical variables recorded included signalment, procedures before surgery, urolith location and type, duration of hospitalization, and heart rate. PCV, plasma total protein, potassium, preoperative and postoperative blood l‐lactate concentrations, preoperative and postoperative creatinine concentrations, and relative changes in blood l‐lactate and creatinine concentrations over time were measured using heparinized blood. A negative outcome was defined as death or euthanasia from urolithiasis complications at 6 months after discharge. Negative outcomes as a function of independent clinical variables were evaluated using χ2 or Fisher's exact tests, and multivariate logistic regression. P < .05 was considered significant.ResultsMedian (95% confidence interval) preoperative, postoperative, and the relative change over time of blood l‐lactate concentrations were 3.3 mmol/L (2.2, 4.8), 1.0 mmol/L (0.7, 1.3), and 0.4 mmol/L (−3.5, 3.2), respectively. Preoperative (P = 1), postoperative (P = .14), and the relative change over time (P = .63) of blood l‐lactate concentrations were not significant predictors of a negative outcome. Furthermore, all other clinical variables measured were not significant predictors of a negative outcome (P > .05).Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceVeterinarians should advise clients that clinical outcomes after tube cystostomy in goats are likely unpredictable.

Non-specific immune response of Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei by supplementation of sodium alginate of Sargassum collected from Lampung Indonesia

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of supplementation of sodium (Na) alginate Sargassum sp. from Lampung waters to enhance the non-specific immune response and the resistence of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) against white spot disease. This study used a completely randomized design with 3 treatments, namely feeding without alginate supplementation (A) or control, dietary Na alginate Sargassum supplementation at a dose of 2.0 (B), and 4.0 g kg−1 feed (C), each with four replications, for 14 days. Hemolymph sampling was performed on days 0, 7 and 14 to observe the parameter of shrimp hematology included total haemocyte count (THC), phagocytocyte activity (PA), phagocytic index (PI), and total plasma protein (TPP). The hepatopancreas histology profile and water quality were observed at the end of treatment. Data were analyzed by Anova at 95% of confidence interval and continued with Duncan test. Result showedthat the supplementation of Na alginat from Sargassum sp. significantly enhance several shrimp immune response namely THC, PA, and TPP. Meanwhile, the histology of the hepatopancreas of both shrimp treatment and control showed not significantly effect on tissue damage. The water quality was still in normal condition during the treatment. The results of this study indicate that the application of Sargassum alginate supplementation at a dose of 2gr/kg of feed is the best treatment to enhance the immune response of Pacific white shrimp.

​​Effect of Environmental Heavy Metal Pollution on Metabolic Profile of Buffaloes in Ludhiana

Background: The industrial hub of Punjab, Ludhiana is polluted with heavy metals. The dairy animals experience stress due to pollution of heavy metals as well as the hot summer season. The stressors lead to disturbance in metabolic profile and affect milk production. The present study aimed at evaluation of detrimental effect of environmental heavy metal pollution on the metabolic profile of buffaloes during summer and winter seasons in Ludhiana district of Punjab, India. A total of 100 buffaloes were randomly selected from heavy metal exposed (n=60) and control area (n=40) during summer and winter seasons. Methods: The location of the experimental area surveyed on the basis of levels of heavy metals. The dairy farms are located in and around Ludhiana, Punjab were identified with levels of heavy metal above the permissible limits (FSSAI, 2010) viz. Chromium-0.05 µg /ml; Nickel-0.02 µg /ml; Arsenic-0.05 µg /ml and Lead -0.05µg /ml. The plasma samples were analyzed for metabolic profile. The water levels of heavy metals were below the permissible limits; therefore, it was taken as uncontaminated or control area. Result: Buffaloes of heavy metal exposed areas exhibited significantly (P less than 0.05) higher levels of glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, BUN, creatinine, AST, ALT, GGT, ALP and CK levels as compared to control area. A significant (P less than 0.05) decrease was observed in plasma total protein, albumin, A:G ratio, BUN: creatinine ratio in the buffaloes of exposed area as compared to the control area. However, significantly (P less than 0.05) higher levels of plasma glucose, BUN, creatinine, AST, ALT, GGT, ALP and CK levels were observed during summer as compared to winter season in both exposed and control areas. Significantly (P less than 0.05) decreased levels of plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides, total protein, albumin and BUN: Creatinine ratio were observed in the buffaloes during summer as compared to winter in both exposed and control areas. The Cr, Ni, As and Pb levels showed highly significant (P less than 0.01) positive correlation with plasma levels of glucose, total cholesterol, creatinine, ALT, AST, CK and GGT. Highly significant positive relationship (P less than 0.01) was observed among plasma levels of glucose, total cholesterol, creatinine, BUN, ALT, AST, ALP, CK and GGT whereas, plasma BUN had highly significant (P less than 0.01) negative correlation with plasma total protein and A:G ratio considering both the areas together. Plasma levels of total protein showed significant (P less than 0.01) negative correlation with all other metabolic profile constituents of both control and heavy metal exposed areas. Thus it may be concluded that the metabolic disturbance in heavy metal exposed buffaloes may have been mediated by heavy metal pollution.

Voluntary intake, milk and colostrum production and lamb growth when ewes are fed high-NaCl diets during pre- and post-lambing

Nutritional requirements at the end of gestation in ewes carrying multiple fetuses are rarely fully met in pasture production systems. Thus, concentrate feeds entail an alternative for increasing herd productivity. However, daily offer of complementary feed in extensive livestock production systems is not always possible due to climatic or geographic constraints or to labor shortages. One alternative is to offer large amounts of concentrate feed with the addition of NaCl that limits voluntary consumption, eliminating the need for daily supplement delivery. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of high salt levels added to concentrate feed on pre- and post-lambing twin-gestating ewes and their responses on feed intake, colostrum and milk production and composition, plasma biochemical profile variation and lamb growth. Twenty-four adult Corriedale females were housed in individual stalls and divided into four treatments: S13: ad libitum concentrate feed plus 13 % of salt; C13: the same amount of concentrate feed consumed by S13 ewes the day before, but without salt; S17: ad libitum concentrate feed with 17 % of salt, and C17: the same amount of concentrate feed consumed by S17 ewes the day before, but without salt. Fresh water and forage were offered in ad libitum amounts. Treatments were applied in the period of highest ewe nutrient demand, from day 123 of pregnancy to day 21 of lactation. The four percentage points in salt content resulted in a decrease of organic matter daily intake of concentrate (23 % of reduction in pre-lambing and 35 % of reduction in post-lambing for S17 relative to S13; P = 0.0134 and P = 0.0164, respectively). Lamb birth weights were similar between S13 and C13 (P = 0.1002) and between S17 and C17 (P = 0.8449) treatments. Colostrum and milk production did not differ between S13 and C13 (P = 0.9776 and P = 0.8928, respectively) or between S17 and C17 groups (P = 0.4943 and P = 0.7705, respectively). Plasma insulin, hematocrit and total protein levels were not influenced by the treatments and these parameters remained within normal physiological limits. Thus, the addition of 13 or 17 % of salt to concentrate feed did not affect the reproductive capacity of ewes or offspring growth, showing that ewes are able to withstand high doses of NaCl and supporting the potential of salt as a limiter of voluntary intake in pre- and post-lambing diets.

Seminal Plasma Protein N-Glycan Peaks Are Potential Predictors of Semen Pathology and Sperm Chromatin Maturity in Men

Background: Male infertility is increasingly becoming a health and demographic problem. While it may originate from congenital or acquired diseases, it can also result from environmental exposure. Hence, the complexity of involved molecular mechanisms often requires a multiparametric approach. This study aimed to associate semen parameters with sperm DNA fragmentation, chromatin maturity and seminal plasma protein N-glycosylation. Methods: The study was conducted with 166 participants, 20–55 y old, 82 normozoospermic and 84 with pathological diagnosis. Sperm was analyzed by Halosperm assay and aniline blue staining, while seminal plasma total protein N-glycans were analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: Sperm DNA fragmentation was significantly increased in the pathological group and was inversely correlated with sperm motility and viability. Seminal plasma total protein N-glycans were chromatographically separated in 37 individual peaks. The pattern of seminal plasma N-glycan peaks (SPGP) showed that SPGP14 significantly differs between men with normal and pathological semen parameters (p < 0.001). The multivariate analysis showed that when sperm chromatin maturity increases by 10%, SPGP17 decreases by 14% while SPGP25 increases by 25%. Conclusion: DNA integrity and seminal plasma N-glycans are associated with pathological sperm parameters. Specific N-glycans are also associated with sperm chromatin maturity and have a potential in future fertility research and clinical diagnostics.

Delayed weaning improves the growth of lambs grazing chicory (Cichorium intybus) pastures

The Midwestern United States is characterized by summers with limited precipitation and as such pastures mature and feed quality decreases from mid to late summer. The poor forage quality impedes sheep production at weaning. Alternative forages such as chicory have been shown to maintain forage quality for a greater time compared to grass pastures and may increase body weight growth of weaned lambs. To improve system efficiency producers may consider delaying lamb weaning age to improve the growth and health of pasture-reared lambs if forage quality can be maintained. The objective of this experiment was to investigate the effects of delayed weaning on the growth and health of lambs grazing chicory (Cichorium intybus). We hypothesized that delaying lamb weaning age would increase lamb body weight and improve parasite resilience. A total of 18 cross-bred ewes and 36 cross-bred lambs (25.2 ± 0.5 kg) were stratified by weight, sex, and randomly assigned to one of two weaning treatments: 1.) lambs weaned at 60 days of age (control) and 2.) lambs, 60 days of age, remained with their dam and weaned at 116 days of age (delayed weaned). Delayed weaning resulted in greater weight gains as delayed weaned lambs were heavier on days 42 and 56 of the grazing period when compared with control lambs. In addition, delayed weaned lambs had a greater average daily gain (ADG) on days 14 and 42 of the grazing period and overall ADG when compared with control lambs. In monitoring lamb health, there were no differences in lamb FAMACHA© eye score, packed cell volume, fecal egg count, and total plasma protein concentration. Delayed weaning has shown to be beneficial in improving lamb growth; however, within the context of the current study delayed weaning did not improve lamb parasite resilience.

Efficacy of in ovo delivered resveratrol (Trans 3, 4, 5-trihydroxystilbene) on growth, carcass weights, and blood metabolites of broiler chicks

This research aimed to determine the impact of in ovo resveratrol (RV) (Trans.3, 4, 5-trihydroxystilbene) injection on performance, carcass weights, and blood constituents in Cobb chicks. A total of 300 fertile broiler breeder eggs were divided into five treatments as 60 eggs in each group, with 6 replicates (10 eggs each). The groups were as follows: (1) negative control (without additive), (2) positive control (saline injection), (3) 1.5 mg RV, 4) 3.0 mg RV, and (5) 4.5 mg in ovo RV injections. Significant changes were found in the amount of forage consumed per day, and the feed conversion ratio between treatment groups. RV injection significantly altered the parameters of the complete lipid profile, including total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoproteins, and very low-density lipoproteins, in plasma. RV injection significantly affected blood biochemical parameters, including total protein, albumin, and globulin in broiler chicken plasma. Liver and kidney functions were influenced by the injection of RV eggs into broiler chickens. The antioxidant enzymes also changed significantly after RV injection. Moreover, in egg injection from RV the immunogenicity (IgG and IgM) in broiler chickens were significantly altered. In conclusion, in ovo injection with RV significantly improved liver and kidney functions, antioxidant activity, and immune function in Cobb broilers.

'Candidatus Mycoplasma haematohydrochoerus', a novel hemoplasma species in capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) from Brazil.

Three different species of hemoplasmas have been described in rodents, Mycoplasma coccoides, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemomuris' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemosphiggurus'. Additionally, potentially novel hemoplasma species have been detected in wild rodents from Brazil, including capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris). Capybaras are the largest rodent in the world and are well adapted to live within close proximity to humans, which increases the risk to spread of zoonotic pathogens. Herein, we investigate the occurrence and genetic diversity of hemoplasmas infecting free-ranging capybaras from southern Brazil. Blood samples and ticks from 17 capybaras were collected. Packed cell volume and total plasma protein were measured, DNA was extracted, and further screened by species-specific and pan-hemoplasma PCR assays targeting the 16S rRNA gene of hemoplasmas. Sixteen out of 17 (94.12%; 95% CI: 73.02-98.95%) were anemic. Only one young female was hypoproteinemic. All capybaras were infested by adults and nymphs of Amblyomma dubitatum ticks. Using the PCR assay targeting the 16S rRNA gene of M. coccoides, 13/17 (76.47%; 95% CI: 52.74-90.44%) capybaras were positive for hemoplasmas. When DNA samples were tested by the pan-hemoplasma PCR, 16/17 (94.12%; 95% CI: 73.02-98.95%) animals were positive. One out of 11 (9.09%) adult ticks salivary glands tested positive for hemoplasma by the pan-hemoplasma PCR assay. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the 16S and 23S rRNA gene fragments confirmed that animals were infected by a novel hemotropic Mycoplasma sp. previously reported in capybaras from Brazil. Additionally, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the 23S rRNA gene from three hemoplasma-positive capybaras samples from a previous study performed in midwestern Brazil also confirm our findings. Based on phylogenetic and Neighbor-Net network analysis of the 16S rRNA and 23S rRNA genes, the name 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haematohydrochoerus' is proposed for this novel organism.

Hematologic and biochemical reference intervals and blood cell morphology in South American pit vipers (Bothrops pubescens).

The maintenance of snakes in captivity for venom extraction and antivenom production is essential due to the high incidence of snake envenomation in Latin America and the Caribbean. Hematology and biochemistry are valuable in the laboratory evaluation of these animals, which indirectly improves their health and welfare. The objective of this study was to determine the reference intervals for hematologic and plasma biochemistry variables in Bothrops pubescens snakes kept in captivity and to examine sex variation. Blood samples from 20 healthy B pubescens snakes were collected for hematologic and biochemistry evaluations and compared between sexes. The sample analysis consisted of a complete blood count using manual methods previously described, and blood cell morphology evaluation. Plasma biochemistry consisted of albumin, uric acid, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, and total plasma protein measurements. Hematologic and biochemical variables were demonstrated to be different when compared with previously published values. A difference between the sexes was not observed for B pubescens. Given that many illnesses can lead to laboratory alterations, knowledge about the reference intervals of healthy captive animals is essential to evaluate the health status and correct management of these snakes.