Results Of Serum Biochemical Analyses Research Articles

Andrographolide restored production performances and serum biochemical indexes and attenuated organs damage in Mycoplasma gallisepticum-infected broilers

ABSTRACT 1. This study aimed to study the preventive and therapeutic effects of andrographolide (Andro) during Mycoplasma gallisepticum HS strain (MG) infection in ArborAcres (AA) broilers. 2. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Andro against MG was measured. Broiler body weight, feed efficiency, morbidity, cure rate and mortality were recorded during the experiment. Air sac lesion scores and immune organ index were calculated. Expression of pMGA1.2 in lung tissue and serum biochemical indices were examined. Histopathological examinations of immune organs, liver, trachea and lung tissue were conducted by Haematoxylin and Eosin stain. 3. MIC was 3.75 μg/mL and Andro significantly inhibited the expression of pMGA1.2 (P ≤ 0.05). Compared with control MG-infected group, Andro low-dose and high-dose prevention reduced the morbidity of chronic respiratory disease in 40.00% and 50.00%, respectively. Mortality of C, D and E group was 16.67%, 10.00% and 6.67%, respectively. Cure rate of E, F, G and H group was 92.00%, 92.86%, 93.33% and 100.0%, respectively. Compared with control MG-infected group, Andro treatment significantly increased average weight gain (AWG), relative weight gain rate (RWG) and feed conversion rate (FCR) at 18 to 24 days (P ≤ 0.05). Compared with control group, Andro alone treatment significantly increased AWG in broilers (P ≤ 0.05). 4. Compared with control MG-infected group, Andro significantly attenuated MG-induced air sac lesion, immune organs, liver, trachea and lung damage in broilers. Andro alone treatment did not induce abnormal morphological changes in these organs in healthy broilers. Serum biochemical analysis results showed, comparing with control MG-infected group, Andro significantly decreased the content of total protein, albumin, globulin, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, urea, creatinine, uric acid, total cholesterol, and increased the albumin/globulin ratio and content of alkaline phosphatase, apolipoprotein B and apolipoprotein A-I in a dose-dependent manner (P ≤ 0.05). 5. Andro could act as a potential agent against MG infection in broilers.

The Effect of Oxidized Fish Oil on Blood Parameters and Liver Histology of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Fish oil is a virtually unique source of natural LC omega-3 fatty acids EPA, DPA, and DHA, as an important source of lipid in aquafeeds. However during processing and storage, fish oil is prone to oxidation. The oxidized oil has many negative effects on the growth and health of farmed fish, therefore this study was conducted to investigate the effect of oxidized anchovy oil on blood parameters and liver histology of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Nile tilapia fingerlings with an initial average body weight of (15.07±0.58 g) were stocked in nine fiberglass tanks (with a tank capacity of 120 liters) in three groups in triplicates at a density of 50 fish/tank. Fish were fed with three test diets containing 35% crude protein and 8% crude fat (POV: 4.85, 50.10, and 100.80 meq/kg-1) twice a day at a feeding rate of 3% of their body weight per day for 12 weeks. During the experiment fish blood parameters analysis, and liver histology tests were performed on 3 fish taken randomly from each tank at the beginning of the experiment and monthly. The results of blood chemistry analysis showed better results in the group fed with feed that contained fresh oil (A) compared to groups fed with feeds that contained oxidized oils (B and C), but no significant differences (P > 0.05) between feed groups. Whereas the results of serum biochemical analysis showed significant differences (P > 0.05) between feed groups during the experiment period, oxidized fish oil increased serum ALT, AST activity, and TCHO level (P < 0.05), and decreased ALP activity. The liver histology test showed the best results in group A compared to oxidized oil groups (B, C), oxidized fish oil caused damage to the liver structure, and hepatocyte nuclear migration and lipid droplets were observed in liver samples from the oxidized oil groups. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that oxidized fish oil may have a negative effect on the liver histology and blood parameters of Nile tilapia fingerlings.

Alismatis Rhizoma methanolic extract-Effects on metabolic syndrome and mechanisms of triterpenoids using a metabolomic and lipidomic approach.

Alismatis rhizoma is a traditional Chinese medicine. Studies have demonstrated that Alismatis rhizoma also has therapeutic effects on metabolic syndrome. However, the pharmacodynamic material basis and mechanism are still unclear. First, UHPLC/Q-Orbitrap MS was used to detect the chemical components of the Alismatis rhizoma extract, and 31 triterpenoids and 2 sesquiterpenes were preliminarily identified. Then, to investigate the mechanism of the Alismatis rhizoma extract on metabolic syndrome, a mouse model of metabolic syndrome induced by high-fructose drinks was established. The results of serum biochemical analysis showed that the levels of TG, TC, LDL-C, and UA after the Alismatis rhizoma extract treatment were markedly decreased. 1H-NMR was used to conduct non-targeted metabolomics studies. A total of 20 differential metabolites were associated with high-fructose–induced metabolic syndrome, which were mainly correlated with 11 metabolic pathways. Moreover, UHPLC/Q-Orbitrap MS lipidomics analysis found that a total of 53 differential lipids were screened out. The results showed that Alismatis rhizoma extract mainly reduces the synthesis of glycerophospholipid and ceramide and improves the secretion of bile acid. This study shows that the Alismatis rhizoma extract can treat metabolic syndrome mainly by inhibiting energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and regulating bile acid to reduce phospholipid content.

Intravenous administration of allogeneic Wharton jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells for treatment of dogs with congestive heart failure secondary to myxomatous mitral valve disease.

To evaluate whether mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be safely administered IV to dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF) secondary to myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) to improve cardiac function and prolong survival time. 10 client-owned dogs with CHF secondary to MMVD. Dogs with an initial episode of CHF secondary to MMVD were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Five dogs in the MSC group received allogeneic Wharton jelly-derived MSCs (2 × 106 cells/kg, IV), and 5 dogs in the placebo group received a 1% solution of autologous serum (IV) for 3 injections 3 weeks apart. Cell-release criteria included trilineage differentiation, expression of CD44 and CD90 and not CD34 and major histocompatability complex class II, normal karyotype, and absence of contamination by pathogenic microorganisms. Patients were followed for 6 months or until death or euthanasia. Echocardiographic data, ECG findings, serum cardiac biomarker concentrations, CBC, and serum biochemical analysis results were obtained prior to and 4 hours after the first injection and every 3 months after the final injection. Lymphocyte and eosinophil counts decreased significantly 4 hours after injection, and monocytes decreased significantly only in dogs that received an MSC injection. No significant differences were seen in the echocardiographic variables, ECG results, serum cardiac biomarker concentrations, survival time, and time to first diuretic drug dosage escalation between the 2 groups. This study showed that MSCs can be easily collected from canine Wharton jelly as an allogeneic source of MSCs and can be safely delivered IV to dogs with CHF secondary to MMVD.

Physical examination, serum biochemical, and coagulation abnormalities, treatments, and outcomes for dogs with toxicosis from α-amanitin-containing mushrooms: 59 cases (2006-2019).

To report history, physical examination findings, clinicopathologic abnormalities, treatments, and outcomes of dogs with confirmed α-amanitin toxicosis resulting from ingestion of α-amanitin-containing mushrooms, and to report whether any differences were significant between survivors and nonsurvivors. 59 dogs. Medical records of all dogs with confirmed α-amanitin toxicosis presented to a northern California emergency and specialty veterinary hospital between January 2006 and July 2019 were reviewed for signalment; body weight; history; physical examination findings including rectal temperature at presentation; results of serum biochemical analyses, coagulation tests, and a test for the detection of α-amanitin in urine; treatments; and outcomes. Differences for each were compared between survivors and nonsurvivors. Among the 59 dogs, 36 were < 1 year of age; 56 had variable clinical signs that included vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and weakness or lethargy; and 22 had rectal temperatures > 39.2°C (102.5°F) at presentation. Cases were seen throughout the calendar year. At presentation, alanine aminotransferase activity was mildly to markedly increased in 97% of dogs, hypoglycemia was noted in 78%, and coagulation times were prolonged in 91%. Most dogs that rapidly decompensated died; however, 13 dogs survived to hospital discharge and completely recovered. Ability to recognize dogs with α-amanitin toxicosis on the basis of clinical signs, physical examination findings, and clinicopathologic test results is essential because mushroom ingestion is rarely observed and immediate treatment is necessary. Dogs that have marked hypoglycemia or coagulopathy may have a poor prognosis.

Haematological and Serum Biochemical Profile of Growing Yankasa Ram Lambs Fed Diets Containing Graded Levels of Sesame Residue

An experiment was carried out to test the effect of Sesame residue (SR) inclusion in the diets of growing Yankasa ram lambs on haematological and serum biochemical parameters. Twelve (12) Yankasa ram lambs with initial body weight of 20.08±3.08kg were allotted to three dietary treatments containing 0, 20 and 30% SR (A, B and C). A completely randomized design was used for the study which lasted twelve (12) weeks. The haemetology results revealed that the white blood cells (12.85-16.85 109/L), red blood cells (1.49-2.04 1012/L), haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) (39.85-48.00 pg), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and lymphocytes differed significantly (P&lt;0.05) among the treatments. Lambs fed 30% SR had the highest MCV, MCH, MCHC and lymphocyte values. Serum biochemical analysis results revealed that lambs fed 20% and 30% SR had higher alkaline phosphatase, total protein and globulin values than lambs fed 0%SR. However, SR inclusion in the diets did not affect calcium and phosphorus levels of the lambs. In conclusion, including sesame residue at 30% in the diets of growing Yankasa ram lambs had no observable adverse effect on haematological and serum biochemical parameters.

Mortality rate and prognostic factors for dogs with severe anaphylaxis: 67 cases (2016–2018)

To determine mortality rates for dogs with severe anaphylaxis and identify potential prognostic factors. 67 dogs with suspected anaphylaxis graded as severe. Dogs were classified on the basis of outcome as survivors and nonsurvivors. Medical records were reviewed, and data were extracted including signalment, examination findings, time to hospital admission from onset of clinical signs, CBC results, serum biochemical analysis results, coagulation testing results, and findings on abdominal ultrasonography. Initial treatment within the first 6 hours after hospital admission was recorded for analysis, specifically including the use of epinephrine, diphenhydramine, corticosteroids, antimicrobials, fresh-frozen plasma, and supplemental dextrose. The overall mortality rate was 14.9% (10/67) for dogs with anaphylaxis graded as severe. Serum phosphorus concentration and prothrombin time (PT) were significantly higher in nonsurvivors, compared with survivors. Nonsurvivors had lower presenting body temperatures than survivors. Serum phosphorus concentration ≥ 12.0 mmol/L, hypoglycemia within 6 hours after hospital admission, high PT value, concurrently high PT and partial thromboplastin time (PTT) values > 50% above the reference range limit, and the need for supplemental dextrose were associated with death. The incidences of coagulopathy and peritoneal effusion were unexpectedly high (85.2% and 65.5% of dogs, respectively) but were not indicative of survival. Despite the poor presenting clinical condition seen in dogs with severe anaphylaxis, the rate of survival with treatment was fairly high. Coagulopathy and the presence of peritoneal effusion were common findings in dogs with severe anaphylaxis. Serum phosphorus concentration ≥ 12.0 mmol/L, high PT value, concurrent increases of PT and PTT values > 50% above reference range limits, hypoglycemia within 6 hours after hospital admission, and the need for supplemental dextrose were associated with death.

Hepatic transcriptome profile of sheep (Ovis aries) in response to overgrazing: novel genes and pathways revealed

BackgroundOvergrazing is a major factor that causes steppe degradation in Inner Mongolian, resulting in extensive ecosystem damage. Scarcity of grass means sheep are smaller and therefore mutton and cashmere production is greatly reduced, which has resulted in massive annual economic losses. Liver is the primary metabolic organ in mammals. It is also the key source of energy supply and detoxification of metabolites in animals, has a close relationship with animal growth. However, investigations on the responses of sheep induced by consequence of overgrazing, particularly those relating to liver-related molecular mechanisms and related metabolic pathways, remain elusive.ResultsThe body weight daily gain of sheep, immune organ indices (liver and spleen), and serum parameters related to immune response, protein synthesis and energy supply (IgG, albumin, glucose and non-esterified fatty acid) were significantly lower in the overgrazing group. Other serum parameters including alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen and interleukin-6 were significantly higher in the overgrazing group. For the RNA-Seq results, we identified approximately 50 differentially expressed genes, of which half of were up-regulated and the other half were down-regulated (overgrazing group versus light grazing group). Bioinformatics analysis identified two enriched KEGG pathways including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway (related to lipolysis) and ECM-receptor interaction (related to liver injury and apoptosis). Additionally, several of the down-regulated genes were related to detoxification and immune response.ConclusionsOverall, based on the high-throughput RNA sequencing profile integrated with the results of serum biochemical analyses, consequences of lower forage availability and quality under overgrazing condition induced altered expression levels of genes participating in energy metabolism (particularly lipid metabolism) and detoxification and immune responses, causing lipolysis and impaired health status, which might be key reasons for the reduced growth performance of sheep. This investigation provides a novel foundation for the development of sheep hepatic gene interactive networks that are a response to the degraded forage availability under overgrazing condition.

Serum biochemical profiling in different varieties of Japanese quail, Coturnix coturnix japonica (Temminck and Schlegel, 1849)

A good quantum of reports is in record on serum biochemical analysis of Japanese quail. But the serum biochemical parameter of different varieties of healthy Japanese quail is poorly understood, and reference values are sparsely available. The investigation focuses to assess serum biochemical profiles of three different varieties of Japanese quail, i.e. brown-feathered, grey-feathered, and white-feathered at different age groups with sexual dimorphism. The five parameters taken for the analyses include glucose, cholesterol, total protein, albumin, and globulin. Two millilitre of blood was collected from the ulnar vein of 90 individual birds, comprising of 05 males and 05 females, from three age groups and three varieties of Japanese quail. For biochemical analyses, three age groups were considered, i.e. chick (0–3 weeks), grower (4–5 weeks), and adult (above 5 weeks), respectively. Data were analysed through standard statistical methods such as ANOVA and test of significance by using Paleontological Statistics (PAST) version 2.17. The data were presented as mean ± standard error, and the significant difference both in age and sex has been recorded at p < 0.01. Throughout the study, a decrease in serum glucose level was observed with increase in age. The serum cholesterol level increased with age, and more serum cholesterol concentration is seen in adult females. The results were similar for serum total protein, albumin, and globulin. The results of serum biochemical analysis reflect a difference at p < 0.01 in experimental birds which were similar to that of chickens and other poultry birds.

Comparative study on hemato-biochemical alterations and selected acute phase protein response in native sheep experimentally infected with bluetongue virus serotypes 10 and 24

Bluetongue (BT) is an infectious, non-contagious, insect-transmitted viral disease of sheep, other domestic, and wild ruminants caused by bluetongue virus (BTV), a prototype species of the genus Orbivirus of the family Reoviridae. The study was designed to determine the hematological and biochemical alterations and acute phase protein response in BTV sero-negative sheep experimentally infected with bluetongue virus serotype-10 and 24. The BTV-infected group comprising of 18 animals, 6 each inoculated with 6 ml of clarified virus containing 1 × 106/ml TCID50 of BTV-10 or 24 by intradermal route, 6 animals inoculated with equal volumes of BTV-10 and 24 and 4 animals with 6 ml of mock infected culture fluid served as uninfected control group. The blood and serum samples were analyzed at 0, 1, 3, 7, 11, and 16 days post-infection (DPI). Hematological findings in this study showed a significant decrease in the total number of white blood cells in BTV-10 infected group, a significant increase in circulating neutrophils decrease in lymphocytes in all the infected groups, in PCV in BTV-24 and co-infected groups, and RBC count in only BTV-24-infected group at 11 DPI. The results of serum biochemical analyses of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) exhibited increased levels in BTV-24 and co-infected animals. A significant rise in the serum level of creatine kinase (CK) was observed from 3 DPI in the infected groups. Serum levels of total proteins decreased significantly at 11 DPI in BTV-24 infected animals. Significant increase in CRP and fibrinogen levels was observed at 7 and 11 DPI in the infected groups. The significantly decreased levels of TLC, hemoglobin, PCV, CK, and acute phase proteins such as fibrinogen and CRP indicated the inflammatory changes associated with the virus replication and the consequent vascular damage and inflammatory changes in the tissues. Further, the variations in the hemato-biochemical and acute phase response observed between the two serotypes BTV-10 and 24 probes to the difference in virulence and pathogenesis of the serotypes in infected sheep.

Haematological parameters and serum biochemical assay of West African Dwarf goats infected with peste des petits ruminants virus in Nsukka, Enugu State

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is an important economic disease of small ruminants caused by a morbillivirus, peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV). This work was designed to investigate the haemogram and serum biochemical assays of some serum enzymes of West African Dwarf goats infected with PPRV. Standard techniques were used to determine the haematological parameters and serum biochemical assays. Apart from the presence of the characteristic clinical signs, complement ELISA and haemagglutination inhibition (HI) tests were used to confirm the infection of PPR in the West African Dwarf goats. Haematological findings in this study showed that there was a significant rise (P < 0.05) in packed cell volume of infected goats, a significant rise (P < 0.05) in the absolute number of circulating neutrophils, an increase in the haemoglobin concentration (HbC), a fall in the total number of white blood cells and a significant fall (P < 0.05) in the absolute number of lymphocytes. The results of serum biochemical analysis of serum aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase in the infected West African Dwarf goats showed a fall in the values but were within normal biochemical range. The clinical signs, haematological parameters and serum biochemical enzyme changes observed in this study will provide supportive evidence in diagnosis of PPR outbreaks in West African Dwarf goats especially in Enugu State, Nigeria.

Extra Pulmonary Toxicity Assessment of Gold and Silver Nanorods Following Intra Tracheal Instillation in Rats.

The gold nanorods (GNRs) and silver nanorods (SNRs) are utilized in various types of industrial and commercial applications. But, there is limited availability of extra pulmonary toxicity data regarding these nanorods. The present investigation evaluated the extra pulmonary toxicity induced by 10 and 25 nm GNRs and SNRs in rats following intra tracheal instillation. The serum biochemical analysis results have shown elevated levels of serum alanine transaminase (ALT) and serum creatinine following 1 day and 1 week post instillation. GNRs have shown greatly increased serum ALT levels at 1 day, 1 week and 1 month post exposure periods compared to SNRs and quartz (QTZ) treated rats. In case of serum creatinine levels, both GNRs and SNRs have shown similar elevated levels. Histopathology studies of rat liver tissues following exposure of GNRs and SNRs displayed that congestion of central vein, shrinkage and ballooning of hepatocytes and lymphocytic infiltration leading to degeneration after 1 week and 1 month post instillation periods. The histopathology of rat kidney tissue was showed tubular dilation, degeneration and necrosis with 10 nm SNRs and 10 nm GNRs after 1 month post instillation period. The 10 nm GNRs and SNRs have shown great changes in serum biochemical analysis and histopathological studies compared to 25 nm test nanorods. These observations suggest the size and dose dependent translocation and extra pulmonary toxicity of both GNRs and SNRs.

Serum Biochemistry of Lumpy Skin Disease Virus-Infected Cattle.

Lumpy skin disease is an economically important poxvirus disease of cattle. Vaccination is the main method of control but sporadic outbreaks have been reported in Turkey. This study was carried out to determine the changes in serum biochemical values of cattle naturally infected with lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV). For this study, blood samples in EDTA, serum samples, and nodular skin lesions were obtained from clinically infected animals (n = 15) whereas blood samples in EDTA and serum samples were collected from healthy animals (n = 15). A quantitative real-time PCR method was used to detect Capripoxvirus (CaPV) DNA in clinical samples. A real-time PCR high-resolution melt assay was performed to genotype CaPVs. Serum cardiac, hepatic, and renal damage markers and lipid metabolism products were measured by autoanalyzer. LSDV nucleic acid was detected in all samples which were obtained from clinically infected cattle. The results of serum biochemical analysis showed that aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, and creatinine concentrations were markedly increased in serum from infected animals. However, there were no significant differences in the other biochemical parameters evaluated. The results of the current study suggest that liver and kidney failures occur during LSDV infection. These findings may help in developing effective treatment strategies in LSDV infection.

Prevalence of Septicemia and Red Mouth Disease Caused by Aeromonas sobria at Sahl El-Housinia Fish Farm

The present study was carried out to isolate, identify and perform a trial for treatment of Aeromonas sobria ; the etiological agent responsible for signs of septicemia with redness and hemorrhage of mouth in cultured Oreochromis niloticus and mullet species. A total of 312 Oreochromis niloticus (30-65 g) and 158 mullet species (200-300 g) were collected a live from a private fish farm at Sahl El-Housinia, Sharkia Governorate, Egypt. Bacteriological examination of samples from gills, kidney, intestine, liver and spleen was carried out. Molecular identification, pathogenicity and in vitro antibiotic sensitivity of the isolated strains as well as in vivo trials of treatment were performed. The naturally infected fishes were characterized by signs of septicemia with redness of mouth and different parts of the body. Aeromonas sobria prevalence in Oreochromis niloticus (35.89%) was higher than that in mullet species (20.88%). Antibiotic sensitivity test on PCR confirmed isolates (n=3) that were highly pathogenic revealed that Aeromonas sobria was highly sensitive to enrofloxacin. The trial treatment of experimentally infected Oreochromis niloticus with 0.2 ml (9x10 8 CFU/ml) of 24 hrs virulent Aeromonas sobria broth culture using enrofloxacin (2 mg/l for 5 days as medical water bath) revealed better health condition and improvement in the signs of infection and levels of the alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and creatinine. Histopathological findings of liver, kidney and intestine confirmed the results of serum biochemical analysis where lesions were alleviated to normal indicating improvement in the health condition due to the efficacy of enrofloxacin treatment. In conclusion, the use of enrofloxacin as a medical water bath by 2 mg/l for five days revealed good results but must be used under restrictions to avoid bacterial resistance to the antibiotic.

Diagnoses, clinical pathology findings, and treatment outcome of geriatric horses: 345 cases (2006–2010)

To compare clinical, clinical pathology, and outcome variables between geriatric and nongeriatric horses. Retrospective case-control study. 690 horses (345 horses ≥ 20 years old and 345 horses > 1 and < 20 years old) examined at a referral hospital. Medical records were examined, and data collected included horse description, diagnosis, outcome, and CBC and serum biochemical analysis results. Cases were horses ≥ 20 years old, and controls were horses > 1 and < 20 years old. Mean ± SD age was 23.9 ± 4.6 years for cases and 9.2 ± 3.6 years for controls. Arabian and pony breeds were significantly overrepresented in the geriatric group, compared with the control group. Diagnoses related to the digestive system, musculoskeletal system, and respiratory system were most common in this hospital population overall (cases and controls). Colic was the most common health problem overall. Digestive system disorders were significantly more prevalent among cases. Short-term survival rates for most categories of colic were no different for cases than for controls, with the exception of the category idiopathic colic. Considering all conditions, cases were significantly more likely to be nonsurvivors than were controls. Minor differences in serum biochemical results were found in some disease subcategories. Geriatric horses with colic were not more commonly euthanized than were adult nongeriatric horses. Results indicated that in this population of horses in a referral hospital, age was associated with the prevalence of specific disease conditions. Few differences between cases and controls were found in serum biochemical values.

A simplified experimental model of large-for-size liver transplantation in pigs

OBJECTIVE:The ideal ratio between liver graft mass and recipient body weight for liver transplantation in small infants is unknown; however, if this ratio is over 4%, a condition called large-for-size may occur. Experimental models of large-for-size liver transplants have not been described in the literature. In addition, orthotopic liver transplantation is marked by high morbidity and mortality rates in animals due to the clamping of the venous splanchnic system. Therefore, the objective of this study was to create a porcine model of large-for-size liver transplantation with clamping of the supraceliac aorta during the anhepatic phase as an alternative to venovenous bypass.METHOD:Fourteen pigs underwent liver transplantation with whole-liver grafts without venovenous bypass and were divided into two experimental groups: the control group, in which the weights of the donors were similar to the weights of the recipients; and the large-for-size group, in which the weights of the donors were nearly 2 times the weights of the recipients. Hemodynamic data, the results of serum biochemical analyses and histological examination of the transplanted livers were collected.RESULTS:The mortality rate in both groups was 16.5% (1/7). The animals in the large-for-size group had increased serum levels of potassium, sodium, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase after graft reperfusion. The histological analyses revealed that there were no significant differences between the groups.CONCLUSION:This transplant method is a feasible experimental model of large-for-size liver transplantation.

Lactobacillus plantarum AF1이 생성한 조항진균 물질의 흰쥐에 대한 반복투여독성

This study was performed to investigate the four-week repeated-dose toxicity of the crude antifungal compounds produced by Lactobacillus plantarum AF1 (Lb. plantarum AF1), a lactic acid bacterium isolated from kimchi, in male and female rats. Sprague-Dawley male and female rats were divided into four groups, with 10 animals in each group. The test article was administered once daily by gavage to rats at dosage levels of 0, 500, 1,000, and 2,000 mg/kg/day for four weeks. There were no test-article-related deaths or abnormal clinical signs in both the male and female rats during the observation period. Furthermore, no differences in the body weight changes, food intake and water consumption levels of the control and treatment groups were found. The hematological parameters, serum biochemical analysis results, histopathological examination results and all other findings also showed no significant or dose-dependent changes. There were also no changes in the organ weights upon the administration of the crude antifungal compounds produced by Lb. plantarum AF1. These results suggest that the oral administration of the crude antifungal compounds produced by Lb. plantarum AF1 had no adverse effects up to a dosage level of 2,000 mg/kg in both male and female rats.

SERUM BIOCHEMICAL ALTRATIONS FOLLOWING ALLOXAN- INDUCED DIABETES MELLITUS IN THE LOCAL MALE DONKEY

Alloxan is known to induce diabetes mellitus in the experimental animals. The objective of this study is to evaluate the biochemical alterations resulted from alloxan- induced diabetes in the local breed of donkey males. Two groups of donkey males (n=7 each group) were subjected to the experiment, the 1st one considered as a non diabetic control whereas the 2nd injected with alloxan monohydrate (100 mg. kg-1) with a single dose. Results of serum biochemical analysis along with 15 days from alloxan injection revealed in addition to the hyperglycemia, a significant (p≤0.05) elevation in total cholesterol, triglycerides, total protein, albumin, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, inorganic phosphate, malondialdehyde serum concentration as well as increased activity of serum enzymes alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, creatine phosphokinase and γ- glutamyl transferase in respect to both control or baseline values. Serum calcium and glutathione concentration was declined as a result of experimental diabetes in male donkey with no significant changes in total bilirubin, hemoglobin, sodium and potassium concentrations. In conclusion, administration of a single dose of alloxan to the male donkey produced a reproducible model of diabetes mellitus which negatively affects the serum lipids, proteins, liver enzymes, kidney function and the markers of oxidative stress.

Osteoma of the oral and maxillofacial regions in cats: 7 cases (1999–2009)

Objective-To describe clinical features of oral and maxillofacial osteomas in cats. Design-Retrospective case series. Animals-7 cats with oral or maxillofacial osteoma or both. Procedures-Medical records were reviewed for information on signalment, history, clinical signs, physical examination findings, diagnostic imaging findings, results of serum biochemical analyses and histologic testing, surgical procedures performed, and perioperative complications. Outcome was determined on the basis of follow-up telephone interviews of owners. Results-Cats ranged from 1 to 23 years of age. Clinical signs were observed in 5 cats and were attributed to the presence of the mass. Diagnostic imaging (radiography and computed tomography) and histologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of osteoma. Three cats were euthanatized; 1 cat was treated by mandibulectomy, 1 was treated by maxillectomy, and 2 were treated by debulking. At the time of follow-up at least 1 year after surgery, all 4 treated cats were alive, with owners reporting an acceptable quality of life. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Osteoma of the oral and maxillofacial regions is an uncommon tumor in cats. Most cats are examined during an advanced stage of the disease, when treatment options may be limited. Although osteoma is a benign tumor, the recommendation is to perform a clinical evaluation, diagnostic imaging, biopsy, and treatment early in the disease process, when less invasive surgical approaches may be feasible.

Open heart closure of an atrial septal defect by use of an atrial septal occluder in a dog

A 3-year-old sexually intact male Standard Poodle was admitted to the veterinary teaching hospital for transcatheter closure of a large atrial septal defect (ASD). The dog had exercise intolerance and was thin. Findings on physical examination were within normal limits with the exception of a left base systolic heart murmur (grade 5/6). The dog was not receiving any medications. Echocardiography and thoracic radiography confirmed the diagnosis of ASD and revealed compensatory changes consistent with a large left to right shunting ASD. Results of serum biochemical analysis and CBC were within reference range limits. Transcatheter ASD closure with an atrial septal occluder (ASO) was performed and failed. An open heart surgical approach under cardiopulmonary bypass was declined by the dog's owners. The dog underwent a novel hybrid approach involving active device fixation under temporary inflow occlusion after transatrial device deployment. The dog recovered with some manageable postoperative complications. As of the last follow-up examination, the dog had 10 months of event-free survival. Transcatheter closure by use of an ASO and open heart patch repair with cardiopulmonary bypass to surgically treat dogs with ASD has been reported. Transcatheter closure is not possible in dogs with large ASD. The novel hybrid procedure reported herein represented a viable alternative to euthanasia.