Serum Biochemical Profile Research Articles

Physiological impact of ammonia-induced stress in freshwater pearl mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (Lamarck, 1819)

ABSTRACT The freshwater pearl mussel, Lamellidens marginalis is a promising candidate species for pearl farming in India and Southeast Asia. In India, this species is being intensively cultured in ponds, tanks, cisterns and freshwater integrated multi-trophic aquaculture systems, where the chance of accumulating ammonia is very high. However, no information is currently available on the effects of ammonia on the physiology of this mussel. Here, we conducted a study of the responses of Lamellidens marginalis to ammonia exposure. The 96 h LC50 of un-ionised ammonia was 4.28 mg L−1. Mussels were challenged by exposure to un-ionised ammonia at half the 96 h LC50 for 96 h. Exposure induced significant alterations in the serum biochemical profile (P < 0.05) of mussels, encompassing changes in total protein levels, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase. The activities of antioxidative enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, and the biomarker malondialdehyde, were significantly impacted (P < 0.05) by ammonia challenge. The antioxidant defence system may be able to protect mussels from oxidative stress during early exposure to ammonia. However, prolonged exposure to ammonia impaired antioxidant activities, emphasising the importance of maintaining water quality for a healthy environment for sustainable freshwater pearl mussel farming.

Effects of cage size on the natural behavior, serum parameters, production performance and hypothalamic mRNA expression profiles of laying hens

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of cage size on the natural behavior, serum biochemistry, production performance and hypothalamic transcriptome profiles of laying hens. A total of 360 79-week-old hens were selected and randomly assigned to three groups (with five replicates each) with different cage sizes: large cages (LCs), medium cages (MCs), and small cages (SCs). The stocking density remained consistent across all groups throughout the experimental period. Behavioral expression was evaluated through observation of only six birds per group on a weekly basis. Compared to the SC group, the average frequencies of walking, wing-flapping, feather-pecking and drinking significantly increased in the LC and MC groups (P <0.05), whereas the average frequency of stereotypic behavior significantly decreased (P <0.05), indicating that cage size has positive effects on natural behavior. The average daily step count (DSC) was in the order LC > MC > SC (P <0.05), which suggested an improvement in exercise ability in larger cages. The serum levels of MDA, CORT, AST and T-CH were significantly lower in the LC and MC groups than in the SC group (P <0.05), whereas the serum activities of SOD and GSH-Px were significantly greater (P <0.05). Additionally, compared to the SC group, the laying rates were increased by 1.61% and 2.20% (P <0.05), and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) were improved by 1.35% and 2.25%, respectively (P <0.05) in the LC and MC groups, respectively. In total, 437 and 81 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the hypothalamus of birds between the LC and SC groups and the MC and SC groups, respectively. A majority of these DEGs were involved primarily in neuroactive ligand‒receptor interactions, focal adhesion and calcium signaling pathways, which are associated with the regulation of behavioral patterns, the stress response and follicular development. Our results suggest that an appropriate increase in cage size is beneficial to the natural behavior expression, health status and production performance of laying hens.

HEMATOLOGY AND BIOCHEMICAL REFERENCE INTERVALS AND SEROPREVALENCE OF HEMORRHAGIC DISEASES FOR FREE-RANGING MULE DEER (ODOCOILEUS HEMIONUS) IN WEST TEXAS.

Wildlife species are routinely captured for translocation, general health monitoring, and research-based pursuits to guide wildlife management. Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) were captured for various research projects and management actions in the Trans-Pecos and Panhandle regions of Texas from 2015 to 2019. The objective of this study was to develop hematologic and biochemical parameters for free-ranging mule deer in Texas and to develop a health monitoring system for current and future mule deer population management. Blood samples were collected from 364 mule deer (male = 81; female = 283) and complete blood counts and serum biochemical profiles were performed by Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. A subset of 263 individuals, deemed healthy based on several inclusion criteria, were used to establish normal reference intervals for the species. The deer were also tested for serologic evidence of previous exposure to bluetongue virus (BTV) and/or epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) to further characterize the health status of the population. Several variables associated with deer capture and/or health status, including the use of anesthetic drugs, elevated body temperature, capture location, and sex, affected mean blood values; however, the development of separate reference intervals by class was not warranted because of the lack of any clinically relevant change. Antibodies to BTV and EHDV were identified in 76% (277/364) and 78% (285/364) of the population, respectively, and 71% (258/364) had antibodies to both diseases. This study provides hematologic and biochemical reference intervals based on a subpopulation of apparently healthy free-ranging mule deer that should guide wildlife managers in decision-making for future conservation and restoration objectives.

Early lactational performance and serum biochemical profile of crossbred cows supplemented with maize and soy lecithin during late gestation

A feeding experiment of 145 days was carried out in crossbred cows to assess the effect of supplementation of maize and soy lecithin during late gestation on early lactational performance and serum biochemical profile. Fifteen crossbred dairy cows in eighth month of pregnancy were selected from Cattle Breeding Farm, Thumburmuzhy. The animals were divided into three groups (T1, T2 and T3) of five animals each and were fed with concentrate mixture (CP- 20 per cent and TDN- 68 per cent) and green grass (ICAR, 2013) throughout the experimental period of 145 days. The T2 group was supplemented with maize (500 g/day) and T3 was supplemented with soy lecithin (210 g/day) from eighth month of gestation until the date of calving. The experimental diets offered to animals in T2 and T3 were isocaloric. Milk production was higher (P&lt;0.05) in the group supplemented with maize (17.1 kg/d) compared to T1 (15.43 kg) and T3 (15.09 kg), while the milk composition remained similar in all the groups. Dietary treatments had no effect (P&gt;0.05) on the serum biochemical parameters such as serum glucose, cholesterol, total protein, calcium and phosphorous. The study revealed that supplementation of energy in the form of ground maize during late gestation significantly improved the early lactational performance of crossbred cows. Keywords: Energy, maize, soy lecithin, milk production, serum biochemical parameters

Serum biochemical profile in case of cardiorenal syndrome in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Veterinary specialists have lately observed comorbidity of heart and kidney diseases known as cardiorenal syndrome. Cardiorenal syndrome is typically defined as dysfunction of a primarily intact kidney under the influence of a complex of pathogenetic damaging factors that arise against the background of an underlying cardiac disease. The purpose of the work is to study the biochemical profile of blood serum in cats with cardiorenal syndrome arising against the background of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The studies were carried out on 24 physiologically healthy (control) cats, 24 diseased cats with uncomplicated forms of pathology (first group) and 25 cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy complicated by cardiorenal syndrome (second group). It was shown that cardiorenal syndrome may occur as a complication of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in animals. Biochemical tests in animals with feline cardiorenal syndrome verified cytolysis of cardiomyocytes (increased serum activity of lactate dehydrogenase by 2.69 times, creatine phosphokinase by 2.02 times, increased serum concentration of cardiac troponin by 5.20 times as compared to healthy animals), azotemia (increased concentration in serum creatinine by 2.72 times, urea by 2.94 times, symmetric dimethylarginine by 2.60 times and cystatin C by 1.90 times as compared to healthy animals), enhanced ketogenesis, systemic inflammatory process (increased serum concentration of C-reactive protein by 1.55 times as compared to healthy animals), hypercholesterolemia, oxidative stress (decrease in serum activity of superoxide dismutase by 1.63 times, catalase by 4.67 times and glutathione peroxidase by 1.71 times, increase in the concentration of malondialdehyde by 1.79 times, ceruloplasmin by 2.50 times and diene conjugates by 1.85 times as compared to healthy animals), electrolyte imbalance in the form of hyperkalemia, hyponatremia, hyperphosphatemia and hypomagnesemia. Biochemical indicators such as serum concentrations of creatinine, troponin I, cystatin C, symmetric dimethylarginine and C-reactive protein can be considered reliable diagnostic markers for the presence of cardiorenal syndrome.

Effect of Melatonin Administration on Libido, Body Weight and Serum Biochemical Profile in Magra Rams During Non-breeding Season

Effect of Melatonin Administration on Libido, Body Weight and Serum Biochemical Profile in Magra Rams During Non-breeding Season

Prevalence of fungal colonization among patients with psoriasis in difficult-to-treat areas: impact of apremilast on mycotic burden and clinical outcomes

IntroductionFungi, including Candida, may be a trigger or exacerbate psoriasis, especially in difficult to treat (DTT) areas, through the activation of IL-17/23 axis.MethodsIn this study, seventy patients with DDT psoriasis were enrolled to evaluate Candida species and/or other opportunistic fungi colonization rate at baseline (T0) and the impact of apremilast on fungal load, clinical outcome, serum cytokine levels and biochemical serum profile of patients after 16, 24 and 52 weeks of treatment.ResultsIn our population, 33 (47%) patients were colonized by Candida spp. at baseline. In 24 (34%) individuals Candida was detected in the oral cavity while in the remaining 9 (13%) individuals the fungus was isolated from stool samples. Twenty subjects were colonized by only the species C. albicans, whereas in the remaining 13 a combination of two or more species (C. albicans plus non-albicans strains) was found in the oral cavity. Moreover, 27 (39%) patients were affected by onychomycosis. At 52 weeks, apremilast treatment induced a full recovery from Candida colonization in 83% of patients colonized with a single species of Candida (C. albicans); while in those co-infected by two or more Candida spp. induced a significant reduction (colony counts &amp;gt;10 CFU/mL) in fungal load was observed in comparison to baseline. Among patients with onychomycosis, 78% (21/27) of them presented a complete clinical resolution of nail psoriasis and concomitant nail infections. Finally, improvements in clinical scores i.e., PASI, NAPSI, DLQI, itch VAS, PAIN VAS, scPGA and sPGA-G and biochemical serum profile, as well as a significant decrease in serum IL-17A, TGF-β 1 and IL-10 levels (from 8.51 to 4.16 pg/mL; from 66.10 to 48.70 ng/mL and from 20.05 to 14 pg/mL, respectively) were observed in all patients.ConclusionsFungi may play a role in the psoriasis pathogenesis. Apremilast has been shown to ameliorate psoriasis signs and symptoms and counteract fungal overgrowth, probably by dampening inflammation, triggered by the fungal infections themselves. Thus, apremilast may represent an effective therapeutic approach in the treatment of DTT psoriasis and modulate the fungal colonization.

Effects of dietary mangosteen peel powder and extract on the growth performance, meat quality and indicators for immunity, gut health and antioxidant activity in broiler chicks

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary mangosteen peel preparations, either powdered (MspP) or ethanolic extract (MspE), on the growth performance, meat quality, immune response, gut health, serum biochemical profiles, and antioxidant activity of broiler chicks. A total of 480 day-old straight-run broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly placed into four treatments, with eight replicates of 12 chicks each, and subjected to one of the four experimental diets for 21 days. The corn and soybean meal-based diet was supplemented with 2% MspP (20 g per kg of diet) or 0.05% and 0.1% MspE (0.5 g and 1.0 g per kg of diet). Data were analyzed using analysis of variance, and post hoc comparisons of treatments were performed using Tukey's Honestly Significant Difference test. From days 0 to 21, dietary mangosteen peel preparations did not affect growth performance (body weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio), thigh meat and tibia characteristics, serum markers of innate immunity (interferon-r, interleukin-10, alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, and nitric oxide), and ileal morphology in broiler chicks (P > 0.05). Dietary mangosteen peel preparations increased the percentage of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and decreased the relative concentrations of isobutyrate and branched-chain fatty acids in the cecal digesta compared with the control chickens. Notably, dietary mangosteen peel preparations altered the antioxidant characteristics of the serum, liver, and thigh meat. Dietary MspE increased glutathione peroxidase (P = 0.039) and catalase (P = 0.008) in the serum and catalase in the liver (P = 0.05) and thigh meat (P = 0.01) compared to the control group. In addition, dietary MspP increased catalase levels in thigh meat compared to those in the control diet-fed chickens (P = 0.01). The concentration of malondialdehyde, an indicator of lipid peroxidation, was lower in all chicks-fed diets containing mangosteen peel preparations; however, statistical significance was only noted in the serum samples (P < 0.0001). Collectively, our study shows that dietary mangosteen peel preparations are potent natural antioxidants that can be used as functional dietary additives to effectively mitigate oxidative stress in broiler chicks.

Haematological, Serum biochemical indices and lipid profile of finisher broiler chickens fed red and white sorghum based diets, supplemented with tannase enzyme

A 28 days study was carried out to investigate the effects of red sorghum (RS) and white sorghum (WS) based diets, with or without tannase supplementation on the haematological, serum biochemical indices and lipid profile of finisher broiler chickens. Two hundred and forty (240) 4 weeks old Arbor Acre broiler chicks were allotted to eight (8) dietary treatments, which consisted of 30 birds, having 3 replicates of 10 birds each. Diets were formulated to replace maize with red and white sorghum at 4 levels (0%, 100%RS, 100%WS and 50%RS:50%WS), with or without tannase enzyme to have a 4x2 factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design. On 28th day, blood was collected for determination of haematological, serum biochemical and lipid profile. Birds fed 100% RS diet and those fed 50RS: 50WS had the highest (P&lt;0.05) white blood cell count (WBC), while the least WBC value was recorded for birds fed maize-based diet. Haematological indices were not significantly (P&gt;0.05) influenced by the interaction between the sorghum type and tannase supplementation. Birds fed the maize-based diet without tannase had the highest (P&lt;0.05) level of albumin (4.87g/dl), while birds fed 100%WS diet without tannase had the lowest value (3.33g/dl). The lipid profile of boiler chickens was not significantly (P&gt;0.05) influenced by sorghum type, tannase supplementation and their interaction. It was concluded from the study that RS and WS, with or without tannase supplementation, can totally replace maize in the diet of finisher broilers without detrimental effect on the haematological, serumbiochemical indices and lipid profile.

Xylanase and phytase supplementation of Moringa oleifera diets: effects on the performance, egg quality and blood profile of laying hens

Context Moringa oleifera leaves present enormous potential as an alternative feedstuff for laying hens. The utilisation of the leaves can be improved by exogenous enzymes owing to the presence of non-starch polysaccharides and phytate. Aims This study evaluated the influence of Moringa oleifera leaf meal (MOL) in diets supplemented with xylanase and phytase on laying hen performance and egg quality at peak production. Methods In total, 288 Dekalb White laying hens (32 weeks old) were distributed in a completely randomised design, following a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement (with or without MOL × 4 enzyme supplementations). Each treatment comprised six repetitions, each containing six hens. The control diet was based on ground corn and soybean meal, and the treatment diets were supplemented with 5% MOL, followed by three enzyme additives (xylanase, phytase and a xylanase + phytase blend). Key results The enzyme supplementation in MOL diets positively influenced egg production (P = 0.012), egg weight (P = 0.021) and egg mass (P = 0.009). The birds offered xylanase-supplemented diets had higher feed intakes (P = 0.015) than did those fed other diets. Moringa oleifera increased the albumen height (P &lt; 0.001) and Haugh unit (P &lt; 0.001), whereas MOL and phytase improved eggshell thickness (P &lt; 0.001) and the candling score (P = 0.049), compared with treatments without phytase supplementation. MOL and enzyme supplementation improved yolk colour intensity (L, A and R parameters) and decreased plasma total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol concentrations. The inclusion of 5% MOL in diets did not impair laying performance. However, when MOL diets were supplemented with exogenous enzymes, there was an increase in egg weight. Conclusions MOL can be included at 5% in layer diets without affecting performance. When used in combination with xylanase and phytase, they improve performance, intensify yolk colour, and improve shell thickness, candling score, as well as serum biochemical profile. Implications These findings suggest that the combination of dietary MOL + xylanase + phytase can improve performance and egg quality in laying hens at peak production.

Haematological, Serum Biochemical and Acute Phase Protein Profiles of Sheep with Footrot Infection caused by &lt;i&gt;Dichelobacter nodosus&lt;/i&gt;

Foot-related diseases are among the most common herd health issues worldwide, leading to heavy burden on the sheep and their owner including heavy socio-economic losses. This study investigated the haematological, serum biochemical and acute phase protein profiles of sheep with footrot infection caused by Dichelobacter nodosus. Blood samples from 15 sheep with footrot and 10 healthy controls were collected and analyzed for possible alterations in haematological, serum biochemical parameters and acute phase protein (APPs). Sheep with footrot showed significant changes in haematological parameters including left-shift, neutrophilic leukocytosis, lymphopenia and monocytosis. Serum biochemical assay revealed significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in the concentration of total protein, cortisol, glucose, haptoglobin and fibrinogen while the concentration of albumin was significantly decreased. The finding of this study emphasizes the importance of haematological, serum biochemical and APP analytes in the diagnosis and monitoring of footrot in sheep. The finding of this current study could be used for the development of point-of-care diagnostic markers that would aid prompt diagnosis and treatment of footrot in sheep.

Effect of Biosynthesised Nano-zinc on Blood Biochemical Profile, Antioxidant Status and Immune Response in Vanaraja Birds

The experiment was conducted during December, 2021 to February, 2022 at the location of research was poultry farm, directorate of poultry research Hyderabad, Telangana, India to investigate the efficacy of biosynthesized nano-zinc as a substitute for traditional zinc salt in the diet of Vanaraja chickens, focusing on its impact on blood biochemical profile, antioxidant status, and immune response. A total of 324-day-old Vanaraja chicks were randomly assigned to six dietary treatments, including a negative control (no supplemental zinc), a basal diet supplemented with zinc oxide (60 mg Zn kg-1), and four groups receiving biosynthesized nano-zinc at levels of 15, 30, 45, and 60 mg Zn kg-1 diet. The trial spanned 56 days with 9 replicates per treatment group. Results demonstrated that nano-zinc supplementation at 30 mg kg-1 significantly (p&lt;0.05) improved humoral immunity compared to the control, matching the immune response achieved with 60 mg kg-1 zinc oxide. No adverse effects on serum enzyme profiles or biochemical parameters were observed across treatments, indicating the safety of nano-zinc as a feed additive. From the current study, it may be concluded that the conventional zinc oxide can be replaced with nanoparticle forms at a reduced level without any adverse effect on health assessed through serum biochemical profile. In order to recommend the level of dose reduction, more studies with different breeds, indifferent agro-climatic zones during different seasons are recommended.

Saliva as a Potential Source of Biomarkers in Cows with Metritis: A Pilot Study.

Metritis affects 5-20% of cows after parturition, negatively impacting animal welfare and the profitability of dairy farms, increasing culling rates and costs, and decreasing productivity and reproduction rates. This study compared the results of a comprehensive biochemical panel consisting of 25 salivary and 31 serum analytes between healthy cows (n = 16) and cows with metritis (n = 12). Descriptive parameters such as depression, rectal temperature, body condition score (BCS), heart rate, respiratory rate, mucous color, ruminal motility, vaginal discharge, milk production, and complete hematology analyses were also assessed for comparative purposes. The biochemistry analytes comprised five analytes related to stress, five to inflammation, five to oxidative status, and nineteen to general metabolism. The two-way ANOVA analysis revealed that, in saliva, eight biomarkers (lipase, adenosine deaminase (ADA), haptoglobin (Hp), total proteins, g-glutamyl transferase (gGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and creatine kinase (CK)) were significant higher in cows with metritis. In serum, eight biomarkers (ADA, Hp, serum amyloid A (SAA), fibrinogen, ferritin, AOPPs/albumin ratio, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs), and bilirubin) were significantly higher in cows with metritis, whereas six (total esterase (TEA), albumin, urea, lactate, phosphorus, and calcium) were lower. Of the total number of 23 biomarkers that were measured in both saliva and serum, significant positive correlations between the two biofluids were found for six of them (Hp, FRAP, CUPRAC, AOPPs, urea, and phosphorus). Urea showed an R = 0.7, and the correlations of the other analytes were weak (R < 0.4). In conclusion, cows with metritis exhibited differences in biomarkers of stress, inflammation, cellular immune system, and general metabolism in both salivary and serum biochemistry profiles. These changes were of different magnitudes in the two biofluids. In addition, with the exception of ADA and Hp, the analytes that showed changes in the saliva and serum profiles of cows affected by metritis were different. Overall, this report opens a new window for the use of saliva as potential source of biomarkers in cows with metritis.

Metabolic consequences and tubular function after augmentation cystoplasty in children with neurogenic bladder.

Many studies have reported the renal outcomes and metabolic consequences after augmentation cystoplasty (AC), however few studies have discussed changes in renal tubular function. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of metabolic disturbances, evaluate renal tubular function and 24-hour urine chemistry to evaluate the association between metabolic alterations and urolithiasis after AC. We investigated serum biochemistry, blood gas, and 24-hour urinary metabolic profile of children who underwent AC between January 2000 and December 2020. The outcomes assessed included metabolic complications, tubular function and magnesium status. Associations between 24-hour urinary chemistries and urolithiasis formation were also analyzed. A total of 25 patients with a mean follow-up period of 13.8±5.7 years were enrolled. The mean age at AC was 7.5±4.4 years, and 22 and 3 patients underwent AC using the ileum and colon, respectively. There were no abnormalities in serum levels of sodium, potassium, chloride and calcium. One (4.0%) patient was diagnosed with hypomagnesemia (magnesium <1.7 mg/dL) resulting from renal loss. Six (24.0%) patients had increased urinary β2-microglobulin levels and normal serum levels. The ratio of the maximum rate of tubular phosphate reabsorption to the glomerular filtration rate was low in 3 (12.0%) patients. Four (16.0%) patients had normal serum magnesium levels but urinary magnesium excretion < 40 mg/day. Urolithiasis occurred in 11 patients (44.0%). The most common 24-hour urine metabolic abnormality was hypomagnesiuria (72.0%). None of the urinary metabolic parameters or daily protein intake were associated with urolithiasis. AC for children is safe and does not have an obvious negative impact on metabolic profile, although a high prevalence of 24-hour urine magnesium excretion < 88 mg/1.73 m2 was noted. This study highlights the importance of longitudinal follow-up of renal tubular function and 24-hour urine metabolic profile, especially magnesium status.

CARCASS AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF F2 PROGENY OF ABIA ECOTYPE BIRDS AND THEIR EXOTIC MALE LINE CROSSES IN THE HUMID TROPICS

The study was conducted to evaluate the meat production potentials and serum attributes of Nigerian locally adapted chickens crossed with an exotic male line. Abia Ecotype chickens from three senatorial districts of the state were used to study the growth performance and genetic traits of f2 progenies of the birds. The birds consisted of a base population of two Abia ecotype chicken, Brown (B1) and Black (B2) plumage colours were used as female – lines and crossed with two exotic meat type chicken, Cobb (A1) and Ross 308 (A2), as male – line. The mating for the formation of F2 was set up using a 4x4 diallelic crossing technique and the Selection of the most three productive progenies of the F2 evaluated for further selection as improved Abia ecotype Chicken. Data were used to determine the growth performance traits, carcass and serum biochemical profile. Y1A1 (438.00) was significantly higher in week 7 while in week 8, Y1A1 (550.33) and Y2A2 (550.66) had significant (P&lt;0.05) higher in body weight while the least was recorded in Y3A3 (440.00). Y1A1 and Y2A2 had larger breast expansion and was significant (P&lt;0.05) higher at weeks 7 and 8. Y1A1 has longer (P&lt;0.05) in weeks 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, while in week 5, Y1A1 and Y1A2 was higher in the mean value of keel length but was not different (P&gt;0.05) from Y2A2. Live weight, dress weight and drumstick were significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher in Y1A3. Y2A3 had the higher significant (P&lt;0.05) value for dress percentage. Head and breast were higher in Y1A3. Neck and wings showed the highest (P&lt;0.05) values in Y1A2. Y1A3 was significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) in the value of shank. Y2A1 showed higher significance (P&lt;0.05) thigh value, while Y3A3 had the highest significant (P&lt;0.05) value in breast percentage. Y3A3 having the highest h2 estimate of 0.78 for BWT. Significant differences (P&lt;0.05) were observed in albumin, urea and phosphate. Albumin concentration of Y2A3 is significantly (P˂0.05) different when compared with other progenies but not significantly (P&gt;0.05) different from Y2A1 and Y1A2. Urea and phosphate concentration of Y2A3 and Y3A1 were significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) when compared to other genotypic groups. Correlation coefficient was consistently high between body weight and linear body measurements in all the progenies. From the study, Y1A1 and Y1A3 genetic groups weighed heaviest and showed distinct phenotypic characteristics among the indigenous chicken strains. Efforts are needed to conserve the genetic resources of these chickens.

Cystic echinococcosis due to Echinococcus equinus in a Swiss donkey

SummaryA 22‐year‐old donkey (Equus asinus) mare was presented for investigation of a 3‐day history of lethargy and anorexia. Serum biochemistry profile revealed severe increased liver‐derived enzymes. Abdominal ultrasound demonstrated several large round cysts in the liver. Broad‐spectrum antimicrobials and anti‐inflammatory therapy were started. However, exacerbation of the clinical signs occurred, and the donkey was euthanised. Necropsy and histopathological evaluation showed multiple hydatid cysts with protoscoleces from Echinocococcus spp. in the liver with replacement of parenchyma by fibrosis accompanied by liver atrophy, severe ascites and thorax effusion. The present report describes the first case of a molecularly confirmed Echinococcus equinus infection in a donkey in northern Switzerland.

INVESTIGATING THE POTENTIAL OF SILYMARIN AND/OR SPIRULINA PLATENSIS TO ATTENUATE THE DELETERIOUS CONSEQUENCES OF AFLATOXIN CONTAMINATION IN BROILERS’ FEEDS

The aim of this investigation was to establish the impact of silymarin and/or Spirulina platensis in mitigating the adverse effects of aflatoxin (AF) present in poultry feed. A total of 450 one-day-old, unsexed Ross 308 broiler chicks were allocated to a completely randomized design with five experimental groups. Each group consisted of six replicate, housing 15 chicks per replicate. The treatment groups comprised: 1) the negative control (NC) fed the standard diet lacking AF supplementation; 2) the positive control (PC) fed the standard diet contaminated with 1 mg AF/kg; 3) the silymarin (SIL) fed the PC diet + 0.6 g silymarin/kg feed; 4) the Spirulina platensis (SP) fed the PC diet + 1g /kg diet; 5) the silymarin +Spirulina fed the PC diet + 0.6 g SIL/kg + 1g SP/kg diet. Productive performance, serum biochemical profile (levels of AST, ALT, total cholesterol, HDL, uric acid, creatinine, and calcium), weight of lymphoid organs, levels of glutathione and malonaldehyde in the liver, antibody titers against NDV and IBD, concentration of cecal bacteria, nutrition composition of flesh, and level of remnants of AF in liver and flesh were studied. Our findings revealed a successful reversal of adverse effects caused by AF. Supplementation with either SIL and/or SP restored performance metrics to the levels observed in the non-contaminated (NC) fed control group. These results indicate that dietary inclusion of 0.6 g of SIL/kg and/or 1 g of SP/kg represents a suitable strategy to maintain broiler growth performance, immune function, serum composition, and meat quality in birds exposed to AF contamination at a concentration of 1 mg/kg of feed. Keywords: aflatoxicosis, silymarin, Spirulina platensis, poultry, productive performance

Association of Serum Biochemical Biomarker Profiles of Joint Tissue Inflammation and Cartilage Metabolism With Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis-Related Symptoms at 12 Months After ACLR

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament injury and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) are risk factors for symptomatic posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). After ACLR, individuals demonstrate altered joint tissue metabolism indicative of increased inflammation and cartilage breakdown. Serum biomarker changes have been associated with tibiofemoral cartilage composition indicative of worse knee joint health but not with PTOA-related symptoms. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to determine associations between changes in serum biomarker profiles from the preoperative sample collection to 6 months after ACLR and clinically relevant knee PTOA symptoms at 12 months after ACLR. It was hypothesized that increases in biomarkers of inflammation, cartilage metabolism, and cartilage degradation would be associated with clinically relevant PTOA symptoms after ACLR. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Individuals undergoing primary ACLR were included (N = 30). Serum samples collected preoperatively and 6 months after ACLR were processed to measure markers indicative of changes in inflammation (ie, monocyte chemoattract protein 1 [MCP-1]) and cartilage breakdown (ie, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein [COMP], matrix metalloproteinase 3, ratio of type II collagen breakdown to type II collagen synthesis). Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score surveys were completed at 12 months after ACLR and used to identify participants with and without clinically relevant PTOA-related symptoms. K-means cluster analyses were used to determine serum biomarker profiles. One-way analyses of variance and logistic regressions were used to assess differences in Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score subscale scores and clinically relevant PTOA-related symptoms between biomarker profiles. Results: Two profiles were identified and characterized based on decreases (profile 1: 67% female; age, 21.4 ± 5.1 years; body mass index, 24.4 ± 2.4) and increases (profile 2: 33% female; age, 21.3 ± 3.2 years; body mass index, 23.4 ± 2.6) in sMCP-1 and sCOMP preoperatively to 6 months after ACLR. Participants with profile 2 did not demonstrate differences in knee pain, symptoms, activities of daily living, sports function, or quality of life at 12 months after ACLR compared to those with profile 1 (P = .56-.81; η2 = 0.002-0.012). No statistically significant associations were noted between biomarker profiles and clinically relevant PTOA-related symptoms (odds ratio, 1.30; 95% CI, 0.23-6.33). Conclusion: Serum biomarker changes in MCP-1 and sCOMP within the first 6 months after ACLR were not associated with clinically relevant PTOA-related symptoms.

Taurine improves juvenile Seriola rivoliana growth performance and biochemical profiles in blood serum and skeletal muscle

Taurine supplementation has shown survival and feeding efficiency in larval fish development. Thus, the present study aims to evaluate the effects of adding taurine to the longfin yellowtail (Seriola rivoliana) diet for 60 days. Fish (n = 270) were distributed in three treatments: T0 without taurine, T1, and T2, supplemented with taurine at 1 and 2%, respectively. Growth performance, blood serum biochemistry, fatty acid, and amino acid profiles in skeletal muscle were evaluated. Notable improvements (P &lt; 0.05) were observed in T1 and T2 in terms of specific growth rate (SGR) and weight gain (WG). Survival rates (SR) did not show significant differences (P &gt; 0.05). In addition, a decrease was observed in intraperitoneal fat (IPF). Still, an increase was observed in blood parameters, including higher total protein (TP) and globulin (GLO) concentration, as well as a reduction in cholesterol (CHO) levels. Changes in fatty acid profiles were also detected in skeletal muscle with an increase in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) and elevation in taurine concentration in T2. The results showed that adding 20 g kg-1 of taurine to the diet improved growth, skeletal muscle, and blood serum biochemistry. Therefore, the use of higher taurine concentrations is recommended in future studies to understand fully the extent of the benefits to longfin yellowtail juveniles.

Functional oil in the feeding of heat-stressed Japanese quail

The objective of the present study was to evaluate a blend of functional oils (FO) composed of copaiba and garlic essential oils, pepper oleoresin and cashew nut liquid to mitigate the effects of heat stress on productivity, egg quality, organ morphology of the gastrointestinal tract, serum biochemical profile, nutrient metabolism and body temperature of Japanese quail. A completely randomized design was used in a 3 × 2 factorial scheme (without additive; 300 and 500 mg FO/kg of feed x birds raised in a thermal comfort (TC) and heat stress (HS) environment), with 6 replicates of 8 birds per plot. The birds under HS had lower feed intake (P = 0.0000), egg mass (P = 0.0000), laying rate (P = 0.0000) and higher percentage of infertile non-commercial eggs (P = 0.0004), lower head temperature amplitude (P = 0.0000) and higher average of body temperature (P = 0.0312). HS worsened the external and internal quality of the eggs. Birds kept in HS showed higher values of cholesterol (P = 0.0000) and glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (P = 0.0272). The use of 300 and 500 g FO/ton of feed improved the feed conversion (P = 0.0000) and egg mass (P = 0.0000) of the quail bred under HS, respectively, by 8.4 and 7.2% and increased the relative weight of liver (P = 0.0064) and pancreas (P = 0.0492). The use of such additives also provided a higher % of yolk (P = 0.0018) and reduced the percentage of albumen (P = 0.0029) of the eggs produced in TC, in addition to reducing the amplitude of head temperature (P = 0.0484) of birds bred under HS. The breeding of Japanese quail under HS results in negative impacts on the production, physiological and qualitative aspects of the eggs. The use of 300 g/ton of FO in the diet of Japanese quail leads to improvements in feed conversion, increased liver capacity in nutritional metabolism and results in eggs with a higher proportion of yolks, being, therefore, an alternative for feeding quail in a hot climate.