Serum Biochemical Variables Research Articles

Incorporation of yeast treated Dialium bark meal on growth performance, blood indices and intestinal physiology of broilers

Incorporation of beneficial microbes to enhance the nutritive value of non-traditional feed additives is presently being promoted as a cost-effective way of increasing animal performance. Therefore, this trial investigated the impact of the incorporation of Dialium bark meal treated with yeast (TS) into broiler diets on intestinal histology, growth, and blood characteristics. One hundred and eighty days old Ross 308 broiler chickens were assigned to three treatments with five replications of 12 birds in a complete randomized design. The treatments were designed as (TS0: control) which is the (starter and finisher) diets without TS additive; whereas the TS0.5 and TS1.0 diets have TS additive at 0.5 and 1.5 g kg−1, respectively. The feeding trial lasted for 56 days comprising (28 days each for starter and finisher phases). Feed intake, body weight gains (BWG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were determined at the end of the starter and finisher phases. Blood and intestinal histomorphological indices were determined at the end of the finisher phase. Results indicate that TS contains 8.15 % crude protein, 29.84 % crude fibre, and 11.61 % ash. In addition, starter broilers in the TS0.5 and TS1.0 groups gained less weight and had a higher feed intake than those in the TS0 group. Broilers (29–56 d) in the TS0.5 and TS1.0 groups recorded better (p < 0.05) final live weight (FLW), BWG, and FCR than those in the TS0 group. Feed intake responded linearly to increasing TS levels in the diet during the finisher production phase. Broilers in group TS1.0 tended (p < 0.05) to have higher haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, red blood cell count, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration compared to those in group TS0. Conversely, there were no treatment effects (p > 0.05) on mean cell volume, white blood cells, lymphocytes, heterophils, and serum biochemical variables. Broilers on TS diets had significantly improved histoarchitecture of the jejunum in broilers. In conclusion, results suggest that Dialium bark meal treated (TS) with dried active yeast is high in fibre and ash, and its addition at 0.5 and 1.0 g kg−1 feed improved body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, aspects of the blood characteristics and intestinal histomorphology of the jejunum of broilers at the finisher production phase. It is recommended that TS can be added to broiler finisher diet up to 1.0 g kg−1 feed for best growth performance, intestinal histomorphological, and blood characteristics.

Some Acute Phase Proteins and Biochemistry Parameters of Female Dogs Affected with Pyometra

Some Acute Phase Proteins and Biochemistry Parameters of Female Dogs Affected with Pyometra

Intramammary administration of lipopolysaccharides at parturition enhances immunoglobulin concentration in goat colostrum

In newborn ruminants, transfer of passive immunity is essential to obtain protection against pathogens. This study aimed to increase the permeability of the blood-milk barrier using intramammary lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in goats at parturition to modulate colostrum composition. Twenty multiparous Majorera dairy goats were randomly allocated in one of the two experimental groups. The LPS group (n = 10) received an intramammary administration (IA) of saline (2 mL) containing 50 µg of LPS from Escherichia coli (O55:B5) in each half udder at parturition. The control group (n = 10) received an IA of saline (2 mL). Rectal temperature (RT) was recorded, and a blood sample was collected at parturition (before IA). In addition, RT was measured, and blood and colostrum/milk samples were collected on day (d) 0.125 (3 hours), 0.5 (12 hours), 1, 2, 4, 7, 15 and 30 relative to the IA. Goat plasma immunoglobulin G (IgG) and M (IgM) and serum β-hydroxybutyrate, glucose, calcium, free fatty acids, lactate dehydrogenase and total protein concentrations were determined. Colostrum and milk yields as well as chemical composition, somatic cell count (SCC), IgG and IgM concentrations were measured. The MIXED procedure (SAS 9.4) was used, and the model included the IA, time, and the interaction between both fixed effects. Statistical significance was set as P < 0.05. Goats from the LPS group showed higher RT on d 0.125, 0.5 and 4 relative to the IA compared to the control group (PIA×Time = 0.007). Goat serum biochemical variables and plasma IgG and IgM concentrations were not affected by the IA. Colostrum and milk yield as well as chemical composition were not affected by the IA, except for milk lactose percentage that was lower in the LPS group compared to the control group (4.3 ± 0.08 and 4.6 ± 0.08%, respectively PIA = 0.026). Colostrum SCC was higher in the LPS group than in the control group (3.5 ± 0.09 and 3.1 ± 0.09 cells × 106/mL, respectively; PIA = 0.011). Similarly, milk SCC increased in the LPS group compared to the control group (PIA = 0.004). The LPS group showed higher IgG (PIA = 0.044) and IgM (PIA = 0.037) concentrations on colostrum than the control group (31.9 ± 4.8 and 19.0 ± 4.8 mg/mL, 0.8 ± 0.08 and 0.5 ± 0.08 mg/mL, respectively). No differences in milk IgG and IgM concentrations between groups were observed. In conclusion, the IA of LPS at parturition increases RT, SCC and IgG and IgM concentrations in colostrum without affecting either yield or chemical composition.

Seroprevalence, Blood Chemistry, and Patterns of Canine Parvovirus, Distemper Virus, Plague, and Tularemia in Free-Ranging Coyotes (Canis latrans) in Northern New Mexico, USA.

Wildlife diseases have implications for ecology, conservation, human health, and health of domestic animals. They may impact wildlife health and population dynamics. Exposure rates of coyotes (Canis latrans) to pathogens such as Yersinia pestis, the cause of plague, may reflect prevalence rates in both rodent prey and human populations. We captured coyotes in north-central New Mexico during 2005-2008 and collected blood samples for serologic surveys. We tested for antibodies against canine distemper virus (CDV, Canine morbillivirus), canine parvovirus (CPV, Carnivore protoparvovirus), plague, tularemia (Francisella tularensis), and for canine heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) antigen. Serum biochemistry variables that fell outside reference ranges were probably related to capture stress. We detected antibodies to parvovirus in 32/32 samples (100%), and to Y. pestis in 26/31 (84%). More than half 19/32 (59%) had antibodies against CDV, and 5/31 (39%) had antibodies against F. tularensis. We did not detect any heartworm antigens (n = 9). Pathogen prevalence was similar between sexes and among the three coyote packs in the study area. Parvovirus exposure appeared to happen early in life, and prevalence of antibodies against CDV increased with increasing age class. Exposure to Y. pestis and F. tularensis occurred across all age classes. The high coyote seroprevalence rates observed for CPV, Y. pestis, and CDV may indicate high prevalence in sympatric vertebrate populations, with implications for regional wildlife conservation as well as risk to humans via zoonotic transmission.

The Use of Perovskia abrotanoides Extract in Ameliorating Heat Stress‐Induced Oxidative Damage and Improving Growth Efficiency in Carp Juveniles (Cyprinus carpio)

Herbal extracts have been successfully used as feed additives in fish culture with attractive growth‐promoting, immunostimulant, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties for several fish and shellfish species. Therefore, we have designed a feeding trial to assess the impacts of dietary incorporation of Perovskia abrotanoides extract (PAE) on common carp (Cyprinus carpio). For this purpose, five isonitrogenous (35% protein) and isocaloric (~4,000 kcal/kg) diets have been supplied by supplementing PAE at the varying inclusion levels as 0.0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0% diets, and growth performance and feed utilization, digestive enzyme activities, serum biochemical variables, antioxidant responses, and immunological factors were studied. The experiment continued for 60 days. At the termination of the experiment, the mean final weight, weight gain percentage (WG%), feed conversion rate (FCR), and specific growth rate (SGR) have been improved significantly in all fish groups fed PAE‐based diets with regard to those fed the reference diets. A second‐order polynomial regression equations indicate that the optimum dietary supplementation level of PAE in fish diets was ~1%. Serum cortisol, glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, and malondialdehyde levels as well as catalase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase activities were significantly decreased generally in all PAE‐supplemented groups compared to the control groups before and/or after high‐temperature stress (32°C). Moreover, serum total protein, albumin, and total immunoglobulin levels as well as ACH50, lysozyme, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities were increased before and/or after high‐temperature stress (32°C). In conclusion, the results showed, for the first time, that dietary supplementation with ~1% PAE can improve growth performance, stimulated the digestive enzymes, and enchanced antioxidant status as well as immune parameters and prevented high‐temperature stress of common carp.

The effects of feeding sodium chloride pellets on the gastric mucosa, acid-base, and mineral status in exercising horses.

Electrolyte supplementation may be a risk factor for gastric mucosal lesions, but relevant evidence is limited in horses. Investigate the effects of PO sodium chloride (NaCl) supplementation on the gastric mucosa of exercising horses. We hypothesized that NaCl supplementation would neither cause nor exacerbate existing gastric mucosal damage. Fifteen 3-year-old healthy Warmblood stallions from a stud farm. Placebo-controlled study with a crossover design. Horses were fed either a NaCl pellet at a dosage adequate to replace the electrolyte losses in 10 L sweat or a placebo for 19 days with a washout period of 14 days between treatments. The gastric mucosa was evaluated by gastroscopy before and after treatment. Blood samples were collected for evaluation of acid-base status, packed cell volume (PCV), and total protein, creatinine and blood urea nitrogen concentrations. Urine was collected, and urine specific gravity, electrolyte, creatinine, and urea concentrations were measured. The initial prevalence of gastric mucosal lesions was 85%. Sodium chloride pellets did not adversely affect the gastric mucosa and treatment did not significantly alter the hematologic and serum biochemical variables. Urine creatinine concentrations significantly decreased and urinary sodium concentrations significantly increased after supplementation with NaCl pellets. Water intake did not significantly differ between treatments. Daily NaCl pellet supplementation is a palatable and safe way to replace electrolyte losses from sweating in exercising horses and has no negative effects on the gastric mucosa.

Comparison of hematologic and serum biochemical variables in Brucella-infected and Brucella-free adult Himalayan marmots (Marmota himalayana).

The Himalayan marmot (Marmota himalayana) plays a reservoir role in the epidemiology of brucellosis. However, the changes in blood biochemical parameters are still unclear in Brucella-seropositive marmots. The present study was designed to explore the hematologic and biochemical variable changes in Brucella-seropositive marmots. Blood samples were collected from the dorsalis pedis vein of Himalayan marmots (24 Brucella-seropositive marmots and 24 Brucella-free marmots). Ten hematologic and 10 serum biochemical variable examinations were performed and analyzed. Our results showed that leukocyte, platelet, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts significantly increased, while the level of carbon dioxide combining power decreased in Brucella-infected marmots. These findings indicate that Brucella triggers an immune response in Himalayan marmots. This study provides a preliminary investigation of the changes in blood biochemical analytes in Brucella-infected marmots. The interaction between Brucella infection and blood biochemical indices in Himalayan marmots should be further explored.

Glucose-lowering effects of a synbiotic combination containing Pediococcus acidilactici in C. elegans and mice

Aims/hypothesisModulation of gut microbiota has emerged as a promising strategy to treat or prevent the development of different metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and obesity. Previous data from our group suggest that the strain Pediococcus acidilactici CECT9879 (pA1c) could be an effective probiotic for regulating glucose metabolism. Hence, the objectives of this study were to verify the effectiveness of pA1c on glycaemic regulation in diet-induced obese mice and to evaluate whether the combination of pA1c with other normoglycaemic ingredients, such as chromium picolinate (PC) and oat β-glucans (BGC), could increase the efficacy of this probiotic on the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism.MethodsCaenorhabditis elegans was used as a screening model to describe the potential synbiotic activities, together with the underlying mechanisms of action. In addition, 4-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were fed with a high-fat/high-sucrose diet (HFS) for 6 weeks to induce hyperglycaemia and obesity. Mice were then divided into eight groups (n=12 mice/group) according to dietary supplementation: control-diet group; HFS group; pA1c group (1010 colony-forming units/day); PC; BGC; pA1c+PC+BGC; pA1c+PC; and pA1c+BGC. Supplementations were maintained for 10 weeks. Fasting blood glucose was determined and an IPGTT was performed prior to euthanasia. Fat depots, liver and other organs were weighed, and serum biochemical variables were analysed. Gene expression analyses were conducted by real-time quantitative PCR. Sequencing of the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene from faecal samples of each group was performed, and differential abundance for family, genera and species was analysed by ALDEx2R package.ResultsSupplementation with the synbiotic (pA1c+PC+BGC) counteracted the effect of the high glucose by modulating the insulin–IGF-1 signalling pathway in C. elegans, through the reversal of the glucose nuclear localisation of daf-16. In diet-induced obese mice, all groups supplemented with the probiotic significantly ameliorated glucose tolerance after an IPGTT, demonstrating the glycaemia-regulating effect of pA1c. Further, mice supplemented with pA1c+PC+BGC exhibited lower fasting blood glucose, a reduced proportion of visceral adiposity and a higher proportion of muscle tissue, together with an improvement in the brown adipose tissue in comparison with the HFS group. Besides, the effect of the HFS diet on steatosis and liver damage was normalised by the synbiotic. Gene expression analyses demonstrated that the synbiotic activity was mediated not only by modulation of the insulin–IGF-1 signalling pathway, through the overexpression of GLUT-1 and GLUT-4 mediators, but also by a decreased expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as monocyte chemotactic protein-1. 16S metagenomics demonstrated that the synbiotic combinations allowed an increase in the concentration of P. acidilactici, together with improvements in the intestinal microbiota such as a reduction in Prevotella and an increase in Akkermansia muciniphila.Conclusions/interpretationOur data suggest that the combination of pA1c with PC and BGC could be a potential synbiotic for blood glucose regulation and may help to fight insulin resistance, diabetes and obesity.Graphical

The effect of taurine supplementation on the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system of dogs with congestive heart failure

The role of taurine in the treatment of congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs without systemic deficiency is unexplored. Taurine might have beneficial cardiac effects aside from deficit replacement. We hypothesized that oral taurine supplementation administered to dogs with naturally-occurring CHF would suppress the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS). Oral taurine was administered to 14 dogs with stable CHF. Serum biochemical variables, blood taurine concentrations, and comprehensive analysis of RAAS variables were compared before and 2 weeks after taurine supplementation added to background furosemide and pimobendan therapy for CHF. Whole blood taurine concentrations increased after supplementation (median 408 nMol/mL, range 248–608 before and median 493 nMol/mL, range 396–690 after; P = .006). Aldosterone to angiotensin II ratio (AA2) was significantly decreased after taurine supplementation (median 1.00, range 0.03–7.05 before and median 0.65, range 0.01–3.63 after; P = .009), but no other RAAS components significantly differed between timepoints. A subset of dogs showed marked decreases in RAAS metabolites after supplementation and these dogs were more likely to have been recently hospitalized for CHF treatment than dogs that did not show marked decreases in classical RAAS metabolites. Overall, taurine only lowered AA2 in this group of dogs, however, response heterogeneity was noted, with some dogs showing RAAS suppression.

Potential Influence of Shading in Freshwater Ponds on the Water Quality Parameters and the Hematological and Biochemical Profiles of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linnaeus, 1758)

Nile tilapia is a high-demand commodity in most developing countries including the Philippines, but its production is hampered by fluctuating water temperature (WT) and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations, which are mostly influenced by temperature warming. Net shading has been demonstrated to reduce pond temperature and increase the rate of spawning in cultured tilapia. The current study aimed to investigate the potential effects of shading on the water quality parameters, blood indices, and serum biochemical profiles of cultured Nile tilapia. Fish were collected from unshaded (control) and shaded (experimental) ponds in three breeding cycles. WT and DO concentrations were measured, while hematological and biochemical analyses were performed. The results showed that the average WT was considerably decreased in the shaded pond with no significant difference in the DO concentrations. Red blood cells, hemoglobin, and lymphocyte counts were significantly lower in fish raised in shaded ponds, although mean corpuscular volume and neutrophil counts were significantly higher. Likewise, Chole, TP, and Alb values were significantly affected by the interaction of cycle and shading setup. Cortisol, Glb, K+, Cl−, Mg2+, and TCa values showed significant differences and were only affected by the cycle. Similarly, AST and ALT values showed significant differences and were affected by both cycle and shading setup. Water quality parameters (WT and DO), hematological blood indices, and serum biochemical variables were correlated positively with each other. In brief, prior data imply that net shading can reduce WT in aquaculture ponds, reduce stress in Nile tilapia, and lessen the consequences of temperature warming on species production.

Hematology and serum biochemistry variables in apparently normal Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx).

Hematology and serum biochemical analyses are integral parts of the clinical evaluation of sick animals. This is especially true regarding the clinical care of wildlife species, where clinical signs and historical data relating to the particular illness are often not available. Therefore, this study was designed to report various hematology and serum biochemistry parameters in Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx). Various hematology and serum biochemistry parameters were determined in 49 Arabian oryx of various ages and sexes. Hematology parameters included total red blood cells (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), MCH concentration, and total leukocyte count (white blood cell) using an automated hematology analyzer. Serum biochemistry variables included glucose (Trinder method), total protein (biuret method), albumin using the Bromcresol Green (BCG) method, and blood urea nitrogen (colorimetric method). In addition, serum electrolyte concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus were determined using colorimetric methods. There was a significant difference in RBC count, PCV, and serum glucose concentration between adult and young Arabian oryx. The RBC count was significantly higher in males than in females, whereas the serum glucose concentration was significantly higher in females. Results of this study showed significant differences in RBC, PCV, and serum glucose concentration between apparently normal young and Adult Arabian oryx. Similar differences were also detected between normal males and females. Knowledge of these data could prove vital in the clinical evaluation of the health status of this wildlife species.

Investigation of the Association of Serum Trace Elements Concentrations and Serum Biochemical Parameters with the Risk of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: a Case-Control Study.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrinological syndrome characterized by hyperandrogenism of ovarian origin and is often considered a predisposing factor for metabolic disorders. The objective of the study was to investigate serum levels of (a) trace elements (copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), selenium (Se), iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), and manganese (Mn)); and (b) biochemical parameters (glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), albumin, total protein, creatinine, and C-reactive protein (CRP) with risk of PCOS. Another objective was to explore the relationship between serum trace elements and biochemical variables. Serum trace elements were estimated by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and biochemical parameters were estimated by colorimetric methods in 99 PCOS cases and 82 controls. Linear and non-linear associations of serum variables with PCOS risk were studied under logistic, probit, GAM, and BKMR model. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS 22.0 and R package version 4.2.1. All studied serum trace elements (except Zn) are significantly associated with PCOS. Combined effect analysis revealed Mg-Se and Fe-Cu association with PCOS risk. A significant association of cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, CRP, and albumin was observed. Furthermore, linear regression analysis suggests an association between Mg-Cu and Mg-Fe-Mn with HDL-C; Fe and Cr-Cu with albumin; and Cu-Se with cholesterol and LDL-C both.

Relationship between vitamin B12 levels and insulin resistance in postmenopausal women from Colombia Caribbean

Introduction: The high prevalence of low vitamin B12 serum levels has been recognized as a public health problem in Latin America; however, the current magnitude of this deficiency in Colombia is uncertain. Low levels of vitamin B12 can induce clinical and subclinical hematological and neurological disorders. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated a relationship between vitamin B12 deficiency and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, the role of vitamin B12 in insulin resistance has been poorly studied. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between vitamin B12 serum levels and biochemical and anthropometric markers related to CVDs and insulin resistance in postmenopausal women from Colombia Caribbean. Methods: Correlational, descriptive study. By convenience sampling, 182 postmenopausal women from the medical consultation service of a health institution were linked. Serum vitamin B12 levels, anthropometric variables (body mass index, abdominal perimeter), and biochemical variables (glycemia, insulin, lipid profile, HOMA IR) were evaluated. Results: The average value of the vitamin B12 serum level was 312.5 ± 122.5 pg/mL (230.6 ± 90.4 pmol/L); 46.7% of the women had less than adequate levels of 300 pg/mL (&gt; 221 pmol/L), and 9. 9% were deficient, with levels of less than 200 pg/mL (148 pmol/L). The women with metabolic syndrome were 63.7%, and according to HOMA IR, 52.7 % had insulin resistance. A significant inverse relationship was shown between serum vitamin B12 levels with basal glycemic (P =0.002) and HOMA-IR (P =0.040). Conclusions: A significant inverse relationship between vitamin B12 levels and basal glycemia and HOMA-IR was observed. These findings highlight vitamin B12 deficiency in postmenopausal women and suggest nutritional supplementation.

Icariin Alleviates Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome by Improving Liver Fatty Acid Oxidation and Inhibiting Lipid Accumulation.

(1) Background: Icariin is the main component of the Chinese herb Epimedium. A number of studies have shown that it alleviates abnormal lipid metabolism. However, it is not clear whether and how icariin can ameliorate hepatic steatosis with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This study was designed to explore the anti-hepatosteatosis effect of icariin in rats with polycystic ovary syndrome. (2) Methods: Female Sprague Dawley(SD)rats were treated with a high-fat diet and letrozole for 21 days to make nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the polycystic ovary syndrome model. Then model rats were treated with icariin (by gavage, once daily) for 28 days. Serum hormones and biochemical variables were determined by ELISA or enzyme. RNA-sequence analysis was used to enrich related target pathways. Then, quantitative Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot were performed to verify target genes and proteins. (3) Results: Icariin treatment reduced excess serum levels of Testosterone (T), Estradiol (E2), Luteinizing hormone (LH), Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), LH/FSH ratio, insulin, triglycerides (TG), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in high-fat diet (HFD) and letrozole fed rats. Meanwhile, icariin ameliorated HFD and letrozole-induced fatty liver, as evidenced by a reduction in excess triglyceride accumulation, vacuolization, and Oil Red O staining area in the liver of model rats. Results of RNA-sequencing, western blotting, and qRT-PCR analyses indicated that icariin up-regulated fatty acid translocase (CD36), in mitochondria, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) expression, which led to the enhancement of fatty acid oxidation molecules, such as cytochrome P450, family 4, subfamily a, polypeptide 3 (CYP4A3), carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 α (CPT1α), acyl-CoA oxidase 1 (ACOX1), medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD), and long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (LCAD). Besides, icariin reduced lipid synthesis, which elicited stearoyl-Coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1), fatty acid synthase (FASN), and acetyl-CoA (ACC). (4) Conclusion: Icariin showed an ameliorative effect on hepatic steatosis induced by HFD and letrozole, which was associated with improved fatty acid oxidation and reduced lipid accumulation in the liver.

Seasonal alterations in blood biochemical parameters among zebu and crossbred cattle

ABSTRACT The present study was undertaken to evaluate the adaptive capability between native and crossbred cattle during summer and winter using certain serum biochemical variables. Eighteen apparently healthy lactating cattle of same age group between 4 and 5 years were selected and divided into three groups (n = 6) with consideration of breed as Group I: Crossbred, Group II: Tharparkar and Group III: Sahiwal. Blood samples were collected from each animal for 6 weeks during summer and 6 weeks in winter. A significant high values of all the biochemical parameters under the study, viz., total protien, albumin, glucose, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine and cholesterol were noted in summer in comparision to winter within each group. Also, Group III showed higher values of glucose, creatinine, cholesterol both in summer and winter when compared to the other study groups. Our results suggested that the heat stress has a more deleterious effect on the plasma biochemical parameters irrespective of the breed. In addition, among native breeds and crossbred, the native cattle showed minimum biochemical variations with the season and thus can be considered as higher thermo-adaptable than the crossbred cattle.

Comparison of alfaxalone and propofol on haematological and serum biochemical variables in cats undergoing radiotherapy with sevoflurane maintenance

ObjectiveTo evaluate effects of repeated alfaxalone or propofol administration on haematological and serum biochemical variables in cats undergoing radiotherapy. Study designProspective, block-randomized, clinical trial. AnimalsA group of 39 client-owned cats. MethodsAfter butorphanol (0.2 mg kg–1) and midazolam (0.1 mg kg–1) sedation, cats were randomly assigned to receive either alfaxalone or propofol for induction of anaesthesia and sevoflurane maintenance. Cats were anaesthetized daily with the same induction agent for 10–12 days. Complete blood counts, reticulocytes, Heinz body score and serum biochemistry were performed before the first treatment (T1), at T6, T10 and 3 weeks after the final treatment (T21). Cumulative induction agent dose for each cat at each time point was evaluated for an effect on Heinz body score. Data are shown as mean ± standard deviation; p < 0.05. ResultsAt baseline there were no significant differences in signalment or blood variables between groups. A significant decrease in haematocrit of 2.3% ± 0.77 (p = 0.02) between T1-T6 and T1-T10 [mean 4.1% (± 0.78, p < 0.0001)] was detected, with a significant increase in haematocrit of 2.1% ± 0.80 (p = 0.046) between T6-T21 and 4.0% ± 0.8 (p < 0.001) between T10-T21. Heinz body score significantly increased by 1.86 ± 0.616 (p = 0.013) between T1-T10. In the propofol group, reticulocytes increased significantly between T1-T6 [mean 23,090 μL–1 ± 7670 (p = 0.02)] and T1-T10 [mean 27,440 μL–1 ± 7990 (p = 0.007)]. Mean cumulative dose at T10 was 19.65 mg kg–1 ± 5.3 and 43.4 mg kg–1 ± 14.4 for alfaxalone and propofol, respectively, with no significant effect on Heinz body formation at any time point. Conclusions and Clinical relevanceHaematocrit decreased in both groups with recovery after 3 weeks. Repeated alfaxalone and propofol administration was not associated with marked haematological or serum biochemistry changes.

Effect of Anisakis pegreffii (Nematoda: Anisakidae) on Biochemical and Haematological Characteristics of Chub Mackerel (Scomber japonicus Houttuyn, 1782) Caught in the Dardanelles at Çanakkale, Türkiye

Chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus Houttuyn, 1782) were obtained from the commercial fishermen in Çanakkale, Turkey, in July, 2017. We examined a total of 40 fish (20 non-infested and 20 infested) and assessed the biometric indices, haematological parameters and serum biochemical variables. The hepatosomatic index and gonadosomatic index of infested chub mackerel fish were lower than those of non-infested fish. Blood haematocrit ratio and haemoglobin concentration in naturally parasite-infested chub mackerel fish were significantly lower than those in non-infested fish. However, white blood cell counts of the parasite-infested chub mackerel fish were higher than those of healthy ones. Serum total protein, globulin, glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, urea, chlorine and iron levels in naturally parasite-infested chub mackerel fish were significantly lower than those in non-infested fish. Moreover, serum lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and alanine aminotransferase activities of the parasite-infested chub mackerel fish were higher than those in healthy ones. Therefore, observed variations in haematological parameters, serum biochemical variables and biometric indices influenced by the parasite, A. pegreffii, may potentially increase sensitivity of the chub mackerel, Scomber japonicus, to diseases and environmental conditions.

THE ACTIVITY OF XANTHINE OXIDASE IN PLASMA IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HYPERURICEMIA, INSULIN RESISTANCE, AND LIVER DYSFUNCTION

We aimed to investigate the clinical implication of plasma xanthine oxidase (XO) activity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Materials and methods. 127 patients were examined for type 2 DM (72 female and 55 male). Serum biochemical variables include aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), fasting (FPG) and postprandial (PPG) plasma glucose, glycohemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), total cholesterol, triglyceride, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, creatinine (Cre) and serum urine acid (SUA) was measured with a conventional automated analyzer. The level of fasting insulin (IRI) was determined by the immuno-chemiluminescent method. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (IR) (HOMA-IR) index was calculated by the formula: HOMA-IR=fasting insulin (μmol/L)×FPG(mmol/L)/22.5. The plasma XO activity was determined by a photometric method. The rate of glomerular filtration (eGFR) was calculated according to CKD-EPI formulas. All statistical analyses were performed using STATISTICA software version 10.0. Results. The plasma lnXO activity was correlated with IRI (rs=0.52; P&lt;0.001) and HOMA‐IR (rs=0.51; P&lt;0.002). In addition, the plasma lnXO activity was correlated with BMI (rs=0.40; P&lt;0.001). In contrast, plasma lnXO activity was not correlated with age (rs=-0.07; P=0.61), HbA1c (rs=-0.11; P=0.41), FPG (rs=-0,4; P=0.74) and PPG (rs=-0.09; P=0.57). lnXO activity and indices of liver dysfunction or parameters closely related to SUA level in patients with type 2 DM: lnALT (rs=0.73; P&lt;0.001), lnAST (rs=0.69; P&lt;0.001), ALT/AST (rs=0.85; P&lt;0.001). The plasma lnXO activity was correlated with Cre (rs=-0.15; P=0.46) and eGFR (rs=0.13; P=0.34). In a series of multiple regression analyses, plasma lnXO activity was used as a dependent variable, and age, BMI, HbA1c, SUA, eGFR, lnAST, lnALT, IRI, and HOMA-IR as explanatory variables were carried out. When used as explanatory variables, the value of lnALT (Model 1) was an independent strong factor for determining plasma XO activity (R2=95.3%; P&lt;0.00001). When used as explanatory variables, the value of lnALT (Model 2) was also an independent strong factor for determining the plasma XO activity (R2=97.2%; P&lt;0.00001). We aimed to investigate the clinical implication of plasma xanthine oxidase (XO) activity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Materials and methods. 127 patients were examined for type 2 DM (72 female and 55 male). Serum biochemical variables include aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), fasting (FPG) and postprandial (PPG) plasma glucose, glycohemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), total cholesterol, triglyceride, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, creatinine (Cre) and serum urine acid (SUA) was measured with a conventional automated analyzer. The level of fasting insulin (IRI) was determined by the immuno-chemiluminescent method. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (IR) (HOMA-IR) index was calculated by the formula: HOMA-IR=fasting insulin (μmol/L)×FPG(mmol/L)/22.5. The plasma XO activity was determined by a photometric method. The rate of glomerular filtration (eGFR) was calculated according to CKD-EPI formulas. All statistical analyses were performed using STATISTICA software version 10.0. Results. The plasma lnXO activity was correlated with IRI (rs=0.52; P&lt;0.001) and HOMA‐IR (rs=0.51; P&lt;0.002). In addition, the plasma lnXO activity was correlated with BMI (rs=0.40; P&lt;0.001). In contrast, plasma lnXO activity was not correlated with age (rs=-0.07; P=0.61), HbA1c (rs=-0.11; P=0.41), FPG (rs=-0,4; P=0.74) and PPG (rs=-0.09; P=0.57). lnXO activity and indices of liver dysfunction or parameters closely related to SUA level in patients with type 2 DM: lnALT (rs=0.73; P&lt;0.001), lnAST (rs=0.69; P&lt;0.001), ALT/AST (rs=0.85; P&lt;0.001). The plasma lnXO activity was correlated with Cre (rs=-0.15; P=0.46) and eGFR (rs=0.13; P=0.34). In a series of multiple regression analyses, plasma lnXO activity was used as a dependent variable, and age, BMI, HbA1c, SUA, eGFR, lnAST, lnALT, IRI, and HOMA-IR as explanatory variables were carried out. When used as explanatory variables, the value of lnALT (Model 1) was an independent strong factor for determining plasma XO activity (R2=95.3%; P&lt;0.00001). When used as explanatory variables, the value of lnALT (Model 2) was also an independent strong factor for determining the plasma XO activity (R2=97.2%; P&lt;0.00001). When used as explanatory variables without parameters for liver functions, the value of HOMA‐IR was an independent factor for determining the plasma XO activity (Model 3) (R2=97.3%; P&lt;0.00001). These data suggest that the values of ALT and HOMA-IR, a clinical marker for hepatic IR, might be independent factors for directly influencing the plasma XO activity in patients with type 2 DM. Conclusions. The value of plasma xanthine oxidase activity was significantly correlated with indices of insulin resistance and liver dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The values of alanine aminotransferase and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), a clinical marker for hepatic insulin resistance, might be independent factors for directly influencing the plasma xanthine oxidase activity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Does the mineral content of tap water correlate with urinary calculus composition?

The association between the mineral content of drinking water and urolithiasis remains elusive. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the mineral composition of tap water correlates with urinary calculus composition. Patients with calculi that underwent biochemical analysis at two urological centres in the North-West of England between November 2015 and December 2020 were included. Calculus composition was reviewed with respect to patient demographics, serum biochemical variables, and water mineral composition data obtained from the local water supply company using patient postcodes. 1711 urinary tract calculi from 1518 patients, living in 87 water supply zones were included. Water sodium concentration was an independent predictor of mixed calcium oxalate/uric acid calculi (OR 1.157, p < 0.001) and a negative independent predictor of calcium oxalate monohydrate (OR 0.896, p = 0.001) and dihydrate (OR 0.742, p = 0.034) calculi. Moreover, the magnesium-to-calcium ratio of tap water was a negative independent predictor of calcium oxalate monohydrate calculi (OR < 0.001, p = < 0.001), while tap water magnesium concentration inversely correlated with the percentage of calcium oxalate within calculi (rs = -0.054, p = 0.026). Total water hardness did not independently predict calculus type. Many factors are implicated in the formation of urinary calculi. This study is the first to assess calculus composition in relation to tap water mineral content using postcode data on a case-by-case basis. Though total water hardness did not independently predict calculus composition, the interesting findings relating to water sodium and magnesium concentrations are in need of closer scrutiny in larger scale studies.

Effects of restricted nutrition and flushing on reproductive performance and metabolic profiles in sheep

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of dietary restriction during the lactation period on flushing performance and metabolic profiles in sheep. The treatments were performed in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with (i) adequate and restricted feeding treatment during lactation and (ii) flushing and control feeding treatment during mating season. Eighty-four Karacabey Merino ewes were divided into two groups for adequate energy (100%) and restricted (70%) at energy requirements for three months of lactation. Each group was also divided into two sub-groups based on flushing diet (AL-F, RL-F; 150%) or control diet (AL-C, RL-C; 100%) during the mating season. Live weight (LW), body condition score (BCS), serum metabolites and hormone concentrations, ovulation rate, estrus performance and lambing performance of ewes were observed. Data from this study showed that average difference (P < 0.001) of LW and BCS between groups were 5.45 kg and 0.54 respectively at the end of lactation. No significant effects of nutritional treatments (P > 0.05) were observed; the average fecundity, litter size and ovulation rates of ewes were 1.30±0.07, 1.44±0.06 and 1.53±0.07 respectively. The onset of estrus was earlier (P = 0.021) in RL-F ewes (7.0 d) than for AL-F, AL-C and RL-C ewes (11.0, 12.2 and 10.9 d respectively). Mean PRG concentration of ewes was lower (P = 0.011) in RL-C group than ewes in AL-C group (1.859±0.266 and 3.143±0.272 ng/ml respectively) at the ram introduction day. Serum biochemical variables blood urea nitrogen (BUN), glucose (GLUC), triglycerides (TGL) and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-CHOL) concentrations- decreased (P < 0.05), while non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), cholesterol (CHOL), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-CHOL) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-CHOL) concentrations increased (P < 0.05) in the restricted ewes compared with adequate ewes in the different months. In conclusion, in addition to BCS, blood total protein, BUN, GLUC, NEFA and CHOL can be recommended for testing flock metabolic profiles as specific blood metabolites. Flushing did not cause significant differences in reproductive parameters including the ovulation rate. However, the time required for onset of estrus was found to be significantly shorter after the flushing treatment in restricted group of animals.