Serum Total Protein Concentrations Research Articles

Estimation of Blood Biochemical Constituents and Cortisol as Stress Predictors and Prognostic Biomarkers in Buffaloes Affected With Uterine Torsion

Full term pregnant buffaloes (n=24) affected with uterine torsion were equally divided into four experimental groups based on duration of uterine duration viz 6-12 hours (Group I); 12-24 hours (Group II); 24-48 hours (Group III) and more than 48 hours (Group IV). The control (Group V) consisted of six normal full term pregnant buffaloes. The experimental buffaloes were treated by modified Schaffer’s method. Those buffaloes, in which detorsion failed following modified Schaffer’s method, were treated by caesarean section. As the duration of uterine torsion increased, there was a corresponding increase in blood glucose levels from Group I to Group IV. There was a definite reduction in serum total protein and albumin concentrations in buffaloes affected with uterine torsion. As the duration of uterine torsion increased, a concomitant increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and greater increase in serum creatinine levels were noticed. The mean creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels ranged from 152.71±39.09 to 445.30±44.57 and from 80.84±2.19 to 110.83±2.67 U/L, respectively. The successful detorsion in treatment groups caused drastic reduction in serum CPK and AST values at 24 hours after detorsion and 30 days after fetal delivery. The mean serum cortisol level ranged from 44.02±3.30 to 79.39±1.78 ng/ml in buffaloes affected with uterine torsion and it was 12.17±0.54 ng/ml at 24 hours before calving in normally calved buffaloes. Prior to detorsion in all the treatment groups, tremendous increase in mean serum cortisol levels was observed. It can be concluded that serum biochemical parameters and cortisol concentration may help to predict the prognosis of uterine torsion in buffaloes.

Rutin‐Rich Flavonoid Subfraction of Annona senegalensis Mitigates Trypanosoma brucei brucei Infection and Hematobiochemical Changes in Infected Mice

Trypanosomiasis is an important but neglected tropical diseases which continues to cause morbidity and mortality on a large scale in sub‐Saharan Africa. In the present study, the aqueous leaf extract, flavonoid fraction, and subfractions of the flavonoid from A. senegalensis leaves were evaluated for their antitrypanosomal activities, effects on some hematological parameters, and some liver‐based enzymes in mice infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei. Mice treated with aqueous extract at a concentration range of 100–400 mg kg bw exhibited parasite inhibition range between 66.08 and 73.09% while mice treated with the flavonoid fraction (50‐200 mg/kg bw) exhibited higher parasite inhibition (83.37‐86.38%). Mice treated with subfractions of the flavonoids showed a significant decrease in parasite count (p < 0.05), with subfraction 3 completely clearing parasites in the circulation after twenty‐one days of treatment. Biochemical analysis revealed that the subfraction 3 restored the alterations in the serum aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and total protein concentrations that were observed in the infected nontreated mice. The subfraction 3 was subsequently characterized by HPLC analysis which revealed the presence of rutin (RT: 22.26, 65.34 ppm) as the most abundant bioactive compound that could be attributed to the bioactivity of the subfraction 3. Other polyphenolic compounds identified included gallic acid (RT: 4.39, 0.578 ppm), quercetin (RT: 37.27, 0.729 ppm), kaempferol (RT: 38.33, 1.52 ppm), and luteolin (RT; 39.173, 32.77 ppm). Taken together, subfraction 3 of the flavonoid fraction from of A. senegalensis demonstrated potent antitrypanosomal activities and therefore represents a reserve of bioactive metabolite worthy of further exploration for the treatment of trypanosomiasis.

Comparison of refractometer and biuret reaction as measurement methods for serum total protein concentration in Warmblood foals

Comparison of refractometer and biuret reaction as measurement methods for serum total protein concentration in Warmblood foals

Effect of Exposure to Cement Dust of Residents in Vicinity of Kirkuk Cement Factory on Kidney Parameters

The aim of the current study is to determine the effect of Kirkuk cement factory dust on renal function tests among the residents of villages and farms surrounding the factory and those who are constantly exposed to cement dust, which include: urea, uric acid, creatinine and total serum protein for the period from January 2021 to April 2021. The samples were randomly collected (60) samples from different distances as the study group, which were divided according to the distance from the factory into six categories D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, while the control group was (30) samples for the last category, Laylan D7 area, and their average age ranged from (10-70) years, venous blood was drawn (5) ml of blood, serum was separated by common methods of separation, and renal function tests were performed on it. The results showed that the studied groups recorded a significant increase in the concentration of urea, uric acid, creatinine and total serum protein in the blood serum at the level of P≤0.01 compared to the control group.

Multicenter research of the dependence of skin graft engraftment and the concentration of blood hemoglobin, total serum protein and albumin

The Objective was to evaluate the effects of the concentration of blood hemoglobin, total serum protein and albumin on skin graft engraftment frequency.Methods and Materials. The study included 186 patients with full-thickness skin burn more than 5 % of total body surface area who were treated in five different burn departments of the Russian Federation. Depending on the readiness of the wounds, all performed surgical treatments were divided into four groups: 1) simultaneous skin graft after tangential necretomy; 2) simultaneous skin graft after radical necretomy; 3) skin graft for granulation wounds; 4) skin graft for a long time existing pathologically (hyper)granulation. Venous blood was taken from all the patients 12 hours before and 12–24 hours after skin graft. The concentration of blood hemoglobin, total serum protein and albumin was determined in the obtained samples. The evaluation of skin graft engraftment frequency was carried out by a combined method on the 7th day after skin graft. The data obtained were processed using descriptive and nonparametric statistics.Results. The concentration of total serum protein (p=0.001) and albumin (p=0.000) had a significant impact on the skin grafting results. This relationship was most pronounced during skin grafting on granulating wounds and after radical necretomy. The data obtained were identical for meshed and non-meshed skin grafts. Decrease in hemoglobin concentration did not lead to a degradation of skin grafts (p=0.068) in any of the study groups. According to the results of the laboratory parameters ranking, it was found that maintaining the concentration of total serum protein more than 6 g/dL allows 1.3 times to improve the results of skin grafting, and albumin concentrations more than 3.5 g/dL – 1.4.Conclusion. During the study, we were unable to confirm the existence of a relationship between the concentration of blood hemoglobin and the results of skin graft engraftment by any of the statistical analysis methods in any of the study groups. Accordingly, the inability to transfuse erythrocytes to a patient with anemia below 9–8 g/dL cannot be considered as an absolute contraindication for early surgical treatment of burned patients. Apparently, the concentration of total serum protein and albumin has a much greater effect on the skin grafting results. Trigger values of total serum protein can be recognized as 6 g/dL (albumin – 3.5 g/dL), which provides good results of engraftment in at least 90 % of operated patients.

Effects of dietary supplementation probiotic complex on growth performance, blood parameters, fecal harmful gas, and fecal microbiota in AA+ male broilers.

In this study, Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium butyricum and Enterococcus faecalis were made into a probiotic complex (PC). The PC was supplemented in AA+ male broilers' diets to investigate the effects of PC on broiler growth performance, carcass traits, blood indicators, harmful gas emissions in feces and microbiota. Three hundred and sixty 1-day-old AA+ male broilers with an average initial body weight (data) were randomly divided into 3 dietary treatments of 6 replicates each, with 20 birds per replicate. The control group (T0) was fed a basal diet, while the test groups (T1 and T2) were supplemented with 0.025 and 0.05% PC in the basal diet, respectively. The trail was 42 days. The results showed that the supplementation of 0.05% PC significantly (p < 0.05) improved average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) of broilers from 22 to 42 days and 1-42 days. Compared to the control group, the breast rate was significantly higher in T2, and the thymic index was significantly higher than that in T1 treatment (p < 0.05). The addition of PC had no significant effects on antibody potency in broiler serum (p > 0.05), but significantly increased albumin and total protein content in serum (p < 0.05). The addition of PC reduced H2S and NH3 emissions in the feces; the levels of Escherichia coli and Salmonella in the feces were significantly reduced and the levels of Lactobacillus were increased. And the most significant results were achieved when PC was added at 0.05%. Correlation analysis showed a significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) between the levels of E. coli and Salmonella and the emissions of H2S and NH3. Conclusion: Dietary supplementation with a 0.05% probiotic complex could improve the growth performance of broilers and also reduced fecal H2S and NH3 emissions, as well as fecal levels of E. coli and Salmonella, and increased levels of Lactobacillus. Thus, PC made by Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium butyricum and Enterococcus faecalis is expected to be an alternative to antibiotics. And based on the results of this trial, the recommended dose for use in on-farm production was 0.05%.

The formaldehyde treated guar meal and prill fat, agro industrial by-products as dietary rumen protected protein and energy source: improves growth performance, feed conversion, nutrient utilization, microbial protein synthesis, blood metabolites and economic efficiency in growing dairy buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves.

The study investigated the effects of protein replacement with formaldehyde-treated guar meal (FTGM) and prill fat (PF) in the diet on performance of growing dairy buffalo calves. Thirty-two feedlots Surti breed dairy buffalo calves (age, 7.31 ± 0.34months and body weight, 90.69 ± 6.19kg) were assigned into four dietary treatments (n-8 calves/each): (1) control group, supplied basal diet as per ICAR (2013) nutrient requirements; (2) FTGM group, 30% crude protein (CP) requirement of concentrate mixture (dry matter basis (DMB)) replaced with FTGM in basal diet; (3) PF group, supplied basal diet + 100g PF; and (4) FTGM + PF group, 30% CP requirement of concentrate mixture (DMB) replaced with FTGM in the basal diet + 100g PF for 280days. All the treatment diets were isonitrogenous. Growth performance was improved in FTGM + PF and FTGM groups. Apparent digestibility (%) of CP was increased in FTGM and FTGM + PF diet, while digestibility (%) of ether extract (EE) was increased in PF group. Serum total protein, albumen, urea nitrogen, and creatinine concentrations were higher in FTGM + PF and FTGM groups, whereas total cholesterol and triglycerides levels were greater in FTGM + PF and PF groups. Calculated methane emission had a discernible influence of treatment in FTGM and FTGM + PF. The overall cost of feeding per kilogram gain was lowest in FTGM and FTGM + PF groups. In conclusion, 30% CP replacement with FTGM with or without PF improved the growth performance, feed conversion ratio, and nutrient utilization; supported efficient utilization of resources; and economized the rearing of growing dairy buffalo calves.

Epigallocatechin Gallate and Glutathione Attenuate Aflatoxin B1-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Ducklings via Mitochondria-Mediated Apoptosis and the Nrf2 Signalling Pathway.

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) exists widely in feed and food with severe hazards, posing a serious threat to human and animal health. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and glutathione (GSH) have been reported as having anti-oxidative and other functions. The present study aimed to investigate the detoxification effect of EGCG and GSH alone or in combination on AFB1 exposure in ducklings. Fifty one-day-old male ducklings were randomly assigned into five experimental groups (n = 10): 1. Control (CTR); 2. 0.3 mg/kg BW AFB1 (AFB1); 3. 0.3 mg/kg BW AFB1 + 100 mg/kg BW EGCG (AFB1 + EGCG); 4. 0.3 mg/kg BW AFB1 + 30 mg/kg BW GSH (AFB1 + GSH); 5. 0.3 mg/kg BW AFB1 + 100 mg/kg BW EGCG + 30 mg/kg BW GSH (AFB1 + EGCG + GSH). The experiment lasted for seven days. Compared with the CTR group, AFB1 reduced growth performance, total serum protein and albumin content, increased serum enzyme activity (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase), and caused pathological damage to the ducklings' livers. AFB1 exposure increased malondialdehyde content and decreased superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity, catalase, glutathione peroxidase activities, and glutathione content in the liver. EGCG and GSH alone or in combination mitigated these adverse effects. Meanwhile, EGCG and GSH attenuate apoptosis of hepatocytes, and regulated AFB1-induced changes in the abundance of genes contained in the Keap1/Nrf2 signalling and apoptotic pathways. Collectively, these results suggest that EGCG and GSH alleviate the hepatocyte injury induced by AFB1 by inhibiting oxidative stress and attenuating excessive mitochondria-mediated apoptosis.

Clostridioides difficile-mesocolonic oedema in neonatal suckling piglets develops regardless of the fibre composition in sow’s diets

Maternal dietary factors have been reported to influence Clostridioides difficile colonisation in the offspring. Twenty suckling piglets from sows fed diets supplemented with high-fermentable sugar beet pulp (SBP) or low-fermentable lignocellulose (LNC) fibres during gestation and lactation were dissected in the first week after birth. Postmortem analysis included clinical mesocolon and faecal scoring, concentration of C. difficile and respective toxins in colon digesta and faeces, immunoglobulins in serum and inflammatory markers in serum and colon tissues. Sow colostrum was assessed for nutrients, immunoglobulins and biogenic amines. Toxin-neutralising IgG antibodies were measured in colostrum and serum of the sows, and in colon digesta and serum of the piglets. Mesocolonic oedema of different severity was present in most of the piglets from both sows’ feeding groups. Concentrations of C. difficile, toxins and calprotectin in colon digesta and faecal contents did not differ between the study piglets. Calprotectin correlated positively with mesocolon score (rho = 413, P = 0.07). Piglets from sows fed LNC vs SBP tended to have higher IgA (P = 0.089), IgG (P = 0.053), total Ig (P = 0.053), albumin (P = 0.075) and total protein content (P = 0.007) in serum. Colon tissues of piglets from the SFB vs LNC had upregulated expression of ZO-1 (P = 0.021), PCNA (P = 0.015) and TGF-β (P = 0.014). Titers of anti-toxin-IgG-antibodies in serum and colostrum and in piglet colon digesta and serum did not differ between sows from both dietary groups, but they all showed strong positive correlations. In conclusion, dietary sugar beet pulp or lignocellulose fed to sows did not influence the concentrations of C. difficile and toxins titers in colon digesta and faeces of neonatal piglets.

Analysis of influencing factors of serum total protein and serum calcium content in plasma donors.

The adverse effects of plasma donation on the body has lowered the odds of donation. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of abnormal serum calcium and total serum protein related to plasma donation, identify the influencing factors, and come up with suggestions to make plasma donation safer. Donors from 10 plasmapheresis centers in five provinces of China participated in this study. Serum samples were collected before donation. Serum calcium was measured by arsenazo III colorimetry, and the biuret method was used for total serum protein assay. An automatic biochemical analyzer was used to conduct serum calcium and total serum protein tests. The mean serum calcium was 2.3±0.15 mmol/L and total serum protein was 67.75±6.02 g/L. The proportions of plasma donors whose serum calcium and total serum protein were lower than normal were 20.55% (815/3,966) and 27.99% (1,111/3,969), respectively. There were significant differences in mean serum calcium and total serum protein of plasma donors with different plasma donation frequencies, gender, age, regions, and body mass index (BMI), (all p<0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that donation frequencies, age, BMI and regions were significantly associated with a higher risk of low serum calcium level, and donation frequencies, gender, age and regions were significant determinants factors of odds of abnormal total serum protein. Donation frequencies, gender, age, regions, and BMI showed different effects on serum calcium and total serum protein. More attention should be paid to the age, donation frequency and region of plasma donors to reduce the probability of low serum calcium and low total serum protein.

Changes in serum total protein and immunoglobulin G concentrations and Brix percentages in neonatal Arabian foals from birth up to 21 days of age

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) and serum total protein (STP) concentrations and serum Brix percentages of neonatal Arabian foals during first 3 weeks of life. Blood samples were collected from 12 apparently healthy foals by jugular venipuncture at birth and at 12-hours, 24-hours, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15 and 21 days of age. Serum IgG and STP concentrations and Brix percentages were measured by the radial immunodiffusion assay, and digital STP and Brix refractometers, respectively. Based on the serum IgG concentrations measured at 24 h, two foals were diagnosed with failure of transfer of passive immunity (FTPI). While IgG concentrations were determined using the data of foals with adequate transfer of passive immunity, other calculations were made using the data of all foals. The mean IgG concentration of the foals increased from birth (<200 mg/dl) to 12 (2068.5 mg/dl) and 24 h (2184.7 mg/dl), and progressively decreased up to 21 days of age (1318.5 mg/dl). The serum IgG concentrations at 12 h were highly correlated with each of the IgG concentrations measured over the 21-day period. The serum IgG and STP concentrations and Brix percentages of the foals diagnosed with FTPI at 12 h did not reach the adequate strata over time. These results suggest that foals can be reliably tested for passive immunity status at 12 h after birth.

Diets Fermented with Bacteria and Enzymes in China Improve Growth Performance and Health of Weaned Piglets

Microbial fermentation has been widely used to preserve or improve the nutritional properties of food. Liquid feeding can increase feed intake and reduce the morbidity of piglets. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a diet fermented with bacteria and enzymes and liquid feeding on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, digestive enzyme activity, microflora, and expressions of intestinal development-related genes in weaning pigs. A total of 198 piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) with body weights of 8.70 ± 0.45 kg were assigned to three groups with six replicates per treatment, and 11 weaned piglets per replicate according to the initial body weight and sex. The three dietary treatments (all nonpelleted diets) were a standard dry feed as the control (CON), a control diet supplemented with antibiotics (AB), and a liquid feeding with a fermented diet (LFD). The liquid feeding diet, having the same composition and proportion of each ingredient as the control diet, was prepared by storing the dietary cereals (corn, soybeans, etc.) and water (1:0.5, wt/wt) in a closed tank at 26–30 °C with enzymes and bacteria, and then adding the remaining dietary ingredients immediately before feeding. The whole trial lasted 42 days. On days 11 to 14 and 39 to 42, fresh faecal samples were collected to evaluate the apparent total tract digestibility of nutrients. Performance, digestibility, serum physiochemical parameters, intestinal barrier function, microbiota, and microbial metabolites were measured. The experimental data were subjected to analysis of variance using the GLM procedure of SAS for a complete randomized block design, with a “pen” as the experimental unit. The results showed that the AB increased (p &lt; 0.05) average daily gain and reduced (p &lt; 0.05) feed conversion (F/G) over the course of 1–14 days compared to the control. The liquid feeding group significantly increased (p &lt; 0.05) average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and final body weight compared to the other two dietary groups. The digestibility of crude protein, ether extract, ash, gross energy, Ca, and P also improved in the liquid feeding group. Moreover, the liquid feeding group significantly decreased (p &lt; 0.05) serum urea nitrogen and D-lactate concentrations, as well as the activity of diamine oxidase, and increased (p &lt; 0.05) serum total protein and glucose concentrations on day 14. Furthermore, the liquid feeding group significantly increased (p &lt; 0.05) mRNA expressions of zonula occludens-2 (ZO-2) in the jejunum and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), ZO-2, occludin, and claudin-1 in the ileum. In addition, microbiota measurement suggested an increase in Lactobacillus content and a decrease in Escherichia coli with higher (p &lt; 0.05) concentrations of acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, and total volatile fatty acids in the caecal and colonic digesta of piglets in the liquid feeding group. In conclusion, the diet in the liquid feeding group was able to increase palatability, improve nutrient digestibility, and modulate metabolism, which resulted in higher feed efficiency and better growth performance in the piglets.

Body condition score and serum metabolites and minerals concentrations as indicators of ovarian activity and pregnancy success in goats on rangeland

Aim of the study: To investigate potential differences in ovarian structures relative to serum metabolite and mineral concentrations at mating. Also, body condition score (BCS), serum metabolites, and mineral profiling at mating were compared between pregnant and non-pregnant goats. Area of study: Hot zone of northern Mexico (26 °N). Material and methods: Mixed-breed goats (n= 89) on arid rangeland were exposed to bucks during the non-breeding season. Ovarian structures were recorded at mating and ten days after breeding using ultrasonography. Pregnancy was detected at 30 and 120 days post-mating. BCS, blood metabolites, and minerals were determined at mating. Main results: Pregnant goats had higher BCS at mating than non-pregnant goats. The mean serum glucose concentration was higher (p&lt;0.05) for pregnant goats than that for non-pregnant ones (87.3 ± 12.1 vs. 74.4 ± 11.6 mg/dL). Significantly lower (p&lt;0.01) serum urea nitrogen levels at mating were recorded in non-pregnant (10.7 ± 3.5 mg/dL) than in pregnant goats (12.4 ± 3.7 mg/dL). Lower serum glucose (72.2 ± 6.9 vs. 89.4 ± 11.2) and higher non-esterified fatty acids concentrations (NEFA; 0.43 ± 0.23 vs. 0.18 ± 0.12) were significantly associated (p&lt;0.05) with pregnancy loss. Higher serum total protein concentrations were associated with a greater number and larger ovulatory follicles. High serum phosphorus was significantly associated with larger ovulatory follicles. Goats with ovulatory follicles ≥7.6 mm were more likely (p&lt;0.05) to get pregnant than goats with smaller ovulatory follicles. Research highlights: Monitoring BCS, serum glucose, blood urea nitrogen, and NEFA could be used to identify goats at risk for infertility.

The Effect of Organic Copper Levels in Breeding Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix Japonica) Diets on Performance, Egg Quality, Incubation Parameters and Blood Parameters

This study was conducted to determine the effect of different levels of organic copper (organic Cu) supplementation on performance, egg quality, serum parameters and incubation characteristics in Japanese quail diets. 120 Japanese breeder quails of 7 weeks old were used in the study and lasted 84 days. Four diets containing different levels of organic copper (0, 75, 150 and 225 mg/kg) were used in the study. The study was a random design consisting of 20 subgroups with 5 replicates, and 4 females and 2 males were used in each subgroup. As a result of this study, final body weight and body weight gain in Japanese quails was significantly lower in the 75 and 150 mg/kg organic copper groups than in the groups containing 0 and 225 mg/kg copper (p&lt;0.01; p&lt;0.05). Egg production, egg weight, egg mass, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were not affected by dietary copper levels (p&gt;0.05). Eggshell thickness and eggshell ratio were significantly higher in the groups containing 150 and 225 mg/kg organic copper than the control and 75 mg/kg organic copper groups (p&lt;0.05). Serum cholesterol level was significantly lower in 75 and 150 mg/kg copper groups compared to other groups (p&lt;0.05). Serum albumin, globulin and total protein levels were significantly lower in the 75 and 150 mg/kg copper groups compared to the control group (p&lt;0.01). Serum albumin and total protein concentrations were significantly higher in the 75 and 150 mg/kg copper groups than the other groups (p&lt;0.01). The highest serum calcium (Ca) level was in the group containing 225 mg/kg copper (p&lt;0.01). In the study, incubation parameters were not significantly affected by different copper levels in the diet. The results of the study showed that adding 150 mg/kg of organic Cu to quail diets can be effective in improving eggshell quality.

Effects of mothers of different productivity on the body weight and metabolic profile of daughters

The results of the study conducted at the “Pchany-Denkovych” stud farm of the Stryi district of the Lviv region on heifers of the Simmental breed obtained from cows with different productivity are described. The dynamics of animal growth and the biochemical composition of the blood of heifers obtained from low-productive and high-productive mothers were studied. In the process of studying the dynamics of the live weight of calves from birth to 6 months of age, a tendency to increase the body weight of calves of the first group, obtained from highly productive mothers, at the age of 2, 4, and 6 months, respectively, was established – by 1.2 kg, 5.3 kg and 4.8 kg to the body weight index of heifers obtained from low-yielding cows. Experimental groups of heifers at the age of 6 months corresponded to the live weight of the Simmental breed standard. It was established that the total protein content in the blood serum of heifers obtained from cows with different milk productivity from birth to 6 months of age was within the physiological norm and increased gradually with the advantage of its level in analogs obtained from highly productive cows. Comparing the indicators of total protein in the dynamics from the first to the sixth month, it was found that it increased by 33.9 % in the first group and 25.5 % in the second group, respectively. The level of total cholesterol in the blood serum of experimental heifers during six months increased with age, with a slight advantage of indicators in heifers from the first group, which came from highly productive mothers (Р &gt; 0.05). The increase in total cholesterol from one month to 6 months of age in the first and second groups of heifers was 38.5 % and 20.0 %, respectively. A higher concentration of total lipids was noted in the blood of experimental daughters of highly productive cows. The minimum indicators of the level of total lipids were established in the first month of life of experimental heifers of the first and second groups, respectively – at 2.7 and 2.6 g/l, with the same level (3.5 g/l) in the second month and an increase in indicators in the third-month life (4.5 vs. 4.1 g/l) (Р &gt; 0.05). It was established that the activity of aspartate aminotransferase in all periods of growth of Simmental breed heifers significantly exceeds the activity of alanine aminotransferase. Characteristic features of the dynamics of this indicator are the maximum activity of AST and ALT in the first two months of the animal's life, which then gradually decreases.

Response of growth performance, blood hematology, organ indexes, and myofiber traits to increasing dietary methionine levels in Jilin White goose

A total of 240 geese (28 days old; 120 ganders and 120 gooses) with an average initial body weight of 1068.19 ± 6.59 g were used to evaluate the effects of increasing dietary methionine (Met) levels on growth performance, blood hematology, organ indexes, and myofiber traits. The experimental period was 42 days. All birds were randomly assigned to four treatment groups based on the initial body weight. There were six replicate cages per treatment, and 10 geese per cage (5 ganders and 5 gooses). Dietary treatments were based on a basal diet containing 0.25% Met, and extra supplied 0.25%, 0.50%, and 0.75% Met to form different dietary groups (0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, and 1.00% Met, as-fed basis). The results of this study indicated that final body weight, body weight gain, and feed efficiency increased quadratically, relative weight of breast muscle and myofiber diameter increased cubically, serum total protein and uric acid concentrations, relative weight of liver and abdominal fat, and myofiber diameter increased linearly, whereas myofiber density decreased linearly, with the level of Met increased. The maximized growth performance and breast muscle parameters were observed in 0.75% Met-containing group.

Incidence of Inadequate Transfer of Passive Immunity in Dairy Heifer Calves in South Australia.

The objective of this observational study was to estimate the incidence of inadequate transfer of passive immunity (ITPI) on five pasture-based dairy farms in South Australia. Heifer calf uptake of colostrum was evaluated within the first 1-7 days of age (n = 2638) using a digital refractometer to estimate each calf's serum total protein concentration, as an indicator of colostrum uptake. Results of &lt;51 g/L indicated inadequate transfer of passive immunity (ITPI). The data showed that the incidence of ITPI on the farms was 6.5%, 31.3%, 48.8%, 49.7% and 52.4%. The incidence of ITPI was calculated in relation to the age of the calf at testing and the breed of calf, and no significant differences were found. A significant difference was found in the incidence of ITPI when comparing the calf's first feed after separation from the dam (colostrum versus a colostrum-transition milk mixture). The farm with the lowest incidence of ITPI collected calves twice a day, measured colostrum quality on farm with a Brix refractometer and ensured that each calf received an appropriate amount of high-quality colostrum soon after collection. Further studies are required to establish the risk factors of ITPI in South Australian dairy heifers.

Cyclophosphamide Induces Hepatorenal Toxicity and Attenuation by 5-fluorouracil in Male Albino Rats

Background: Cyclophosphamide (CPA) induces acute inflammation of the urinary bladder, renal damage, and liver damage, thereby limiting its therapeutic use. Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the hepatorenal toxicity induced by cyclophosphamide and amelioration by 5-fluorouracil in male albino rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight male adult rats were grouped randomly into four groups (n=5 for each group). Group I (control): Rats were injected with saline intraperitoneally and at a dose of 1.0 ml/kg b.w. for 14 days. Group II cyclophosphamide (CPA): Cyclophosphamide at a dose of 10 mg/kg day by day through i.p. to rats for 14 days. Group III Fluorouracil (5-FU): 5-Fluorouracil at a dose of 10 mg/kg day by day in saline was given through i.p. to rats for 14 days. Group IV (CPA+5-FU): Rats were given CPA followed by 5-FU at a dose of 10 mg/kg per day (day by day) through i.p. to rats for 14 days. At the end of the experimental period, rats were anesthetized using light ether. Blood samples were taken and prepared for biochemical measurements. Results: Serum total protein, albumin, and globulin concentration significantly reduced in animal groups that received cyclophosphamide. 5-FU and CPA combination reduced the changes in total protein, albumin, and globulin compared to CPA treated group. A significant increase in LDH serum concentration was found in CPA, 5-FU, and their combination-treated animals. The mean values of the combination of chemotherapy were above that in CPA followed by 5-FU treatment. Administration of CPA, 5-FU resulted in a significant increase in serum AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin compared to the control. Co-treatment 5-FU with CPA significantly attenuated the increase in serum AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin when compared to CPA – treated rats. Compared to controls, urea and creatinine levels were increased in CPA-treated rats, while uric acid was reduced in CPA, 5-FU, and their combination. The changes in urea and creatinine produced by the chemotherapy were restored when rats received CPA in combination with 5-FU. Conclusion: It could be concluded that the treatment of mammals with chemotherapy is associated with the production of free radicals that lead to hazardous alterations in biochemical parameters. However, 5-FU and CPA combination could produce a significant amelioration in most cases for these changes, and it may be considered as a potentially useful candidate in the combination chemotherapy with CPA to combat oxidative stress-mediated non-target organ injury even if it was not complete protection. Future work should consider combined chemotherapy regimens, as two or more mechanisms of action of chemotherapeutic drugs could be more powerful than one mechanism. Toxicological studies must be performed before using drugs as a combination before application. Further research is required on the toxicological impacts of drugs and pollutants mixtures.

Evaluation of 2 refractometers to estimate different passive immunity status in Simmental dairy calves

Inadequate transfer of passive immunity (ITPI) is major risk for mortality, morbidity and decreased growth performance in dairy and beef calves. Refractometry method is used in estimating ITPI in dairy and beef calves but studies evaluating refractometers for Simmental dairy calves are limited. The objectives of this study were determining the accuracy of digital serum total protein refractometer (STP-REF) and digital Brix refractometer (BRIX-REF) in the estimating of different passive immunity status (<10, <18, <25 and <32 g/L) in Simmental dairy calves. Serum samples were collected from apparently healthy Simmental dairy calves aged 1–8 days (n = 291). Serum total solid percentages were measured using BRIX-REF, serum total protein concentrations were measured using STP-REF and serum IgG concentrations were measured using radial immunodiffusion (RID) assay as a reference test. Correlation coefficients were calculated between RID test and refractometers results, and each other. The diagnostic test performance of the refractometers at IgG concentrations of < 10, < 18, < 25 and < 32 g/L was measured by performing a receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis. The optimal thresholds of the refractometers were determined based on Youden's J statistics and after accounting for different costs between false positive and false negative cases using misclassification cost term analysis. The overall test performance and the agreement of the refractometers were assessed using area under the ROC curve and Cohen's kappa analysis. Optimal thresholds were determined as < 7.9, < 8.3, < 8.7, < 9.4% for the BRIX-REF, and < 4.6, < 5.2, < 5.4, < 5.8 g/dL for the STP-REF in estimating IgG concentrations of < 10, < 18, < 25, < 32 g/L, respectively. Se and Sp of BRIX-REF were 88.8% and 89.1% for < 7.9% Brix, 81.6% and 94.2% for < 8.3% Brix, 77.9% and 97.4% for < 8.7% Brix and 81.7% and 91.2% for < 9.4% Brix, respectively. Se and Sp of STP-REF 92.5% and 88.2% for < 4.6 g/dL; 92.1% and 87.1% for < 5.2 g/dL; 81.7% and 93.6% for < 5.4 g/dL; 79.0% and 94.1% for < 5.8 g/dL, respectively. Both, digital Brix and STP refractometers performed well to estimate the status of passive immunity in dairy Simmental calves.

Dynamics of serum immunoglobulin G and total protein concentrations in dairy calves during the first 2 weeks of life

The aim of the present study was to describe the dynamics of serum IgG (determined with radial immunodiffusion) and total protein (TP; determined with refractometry) concentrations during the first 16 d of life. Secondary objectives were to evaluate the transfer of passive immunity (TPI) classification at d 1 of life as a conditional factor for the aforementioned dynamics, and to describe over time changes on calves' TPI classification. At a commercial raising operation, 36 calves (19 Holstein, 17 Jersey) were sampled immediately after arrival (d 1) and at d 4, 8, 12 and 16 of life, for serum IgG and TP concentration, and hematocrit determination (HCT). Transfer of passive immunity was categorized based on serum IgG (IgG-Poor: IgG <18 g/L; IgG-Good: IgG 18 to <25 g/L; IgG-Excellent: IgG ≥25 g/L) and TP concentrations (TP-Poor: <5.8 g/dL; TP-Good: 5.8 to <6.2 g/dL; TP-Excellent: ≥6.2 g/dL). Multiple linear regression was used to evaluate serum IgG and TP changes over time, considering the effects of time after birth, breed, HCT, and TPI classification at d 1 of life. At d 1, median serum IgG and TP concentrations were 29.9 g/L and 6.3 g/dL, respectively (interquartile ranges: 21.3–42.3 g/L and 5.6–6.7 g/dL, respectively). Dynamics of serum IgG and TP concentrations were conditional to TPI at d 1 of life. Serum IgG concentration declined over time for IgG-Excellent and IgG-Good calves (18.1 and 4.6 g/L, respectively), but remained constant for IgG-Poor calves. Serum TP concentration declined over time in the 3 TPI groups but it was more marked for TP-Excellent (27%) and TP-Good (19%) than for TP-Poor (14%) calves. At d 1, 83.3% of the calves were classified as IgG-Excellent or IgG-Good, whereas 77.8, 55.6, 41.7, and 58.3% of calves were classified within these categories at d 4, 8, 12, and 16 of life, respectively. Similarly, at d 1, 66.7% of calves were classified as TP-Excellent or TP-Good, whereas 47.2, 36.1, 25.0, and 2.8% were classified within these categories at d 4, 8, 12, and 16 of life, respectively. In summary, our results indicate that serum IgG and TP concentrations decline over 16 d of life, and the decline is associated with TPI classification at d 1 of life. Further studies are needed to determine the biological implications of serum IgG and TP decline after d 1 of life, and to elucidate the factors determining the different dynamics. Our results suggest that current thresholds for TPI classification should be interpreted carefully when the age of calves is unknown or outside the age range used to define those thresholds (>24 h to 7 d).