Serum Total Protein Research Articles

Effects of injecting L-Arginine on immune responses and intestinal structure of the hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀× Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂)

To study the effects of L-Arginine (Arg) on immune responses and intestinal structure in a hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀× Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂), intraperitoneal injection of different Arg doses (0, 50, 100, 200 mg per kg body weight of grouper) was administered once every seven days, repeating the process three times in the present study. A total of 216 groupers (initial weight of 349.42 ± 0.67 g) were randomly divided into four groups with three replicates, and each of the replicates comprised 18 fish. Serum was sampled at the seven, 14, and 21 days post-injection. The results showed that injection of Arg had a significant effect on serum albumin, immunoglobulin M (IgM), total protein (TP) and nitric oxide (NO) content, as well as nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and lysozyme activity (P < 0.05). With an increase of Arg dose, serum NO, TP, and albumin levels initially increased and subsequently decreased, and were significantly higher in fish injected with Arg at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg in comparison to the control group. On days seven and 14, the highest serum albumin, TP, and IgM levels were observed in the 100 mg/kg group. With an increase in injection time and frequency, the 50 mg/kg group showed the optimal immune status after the third injection. Based on the results of the intestinal digestive enzyme activity and morphology, the injection of Arg at 50 mg/kg was the most beneficial, followed by the 100 mg/kg dose. Injection of 200 mg/kg Arg, especially after three injections, had adverse effects on immune responses and intestinal structure. These findings indicated that the intraperitoneal injection of L-Arg at a certain concentration can enhance the immunity and intestinal morphology of groupers. Notably, the most significant benefits were observed after three consecutive injections of Arg at 50 mg/kg in this experiment.

Impact of duck stocking density on growth performance, digestive enzymes, blood biochemistry, and antioxidant capacity of the Labeo rohita reared in an integrated ponds system.

This study investigated the effects of duck stocking density (SD) on growth performance, meat quality, hematology, serum metabolites, and antioxidant status of L. rohita reared in an integrated pond system. A total of 9000 fingerlings of L. rohita average weighing 150.5±1 grams were reared in nine ponds (n = 1000/pond) and randomly allotted one of three SDs under a completely randomized design. The stocking densities were 100 (SD-100), 150 (SD-150), and 200 (SD-200) ducks/pond and each group had three replicates. The final body weight, weight gain, and specific growth rates were greater (p<0.05) in SD-200 than in the rest of the treatments. The activities of proteases and amylase were also greater (p<0.05) for SD-200 than for the rest of the SD. However, hematological parameters like red blood cells, white blood cells, hematocrit, met hematocrit, and hemoglobin contents were not influenced (p>0.05) by SD in ponds. The serum total protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine, and glucose contents were also similar (p>0.05) across the ponds. However, blood urea nitrogen was higher (p<0.05) in SD-200 than in the rest of the SD. Moreover, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase activities were linearly decreased (p<0.05) with increasing SD across the ponds. The changes in catalases and superoxide dismutase were non-significant (p>0.05) among the groups. However, glutathione peroxidase was greater for SD-200 than for the rest of the SD. The carcass compositional characteristics such as dry matter, protein, fat, and ash contents were not changed (p>0.05) by varying SD. In conclusion, SD over 200 birds/pond improved growth performance, digestive enzyme functions, and oxidative capacity without any negative impact on the hematology and carcass composition of L. rohita.

PSV-21 Evaluation of the Effect of Daily Probiotic Administration on the Prevalence of Shiga Toxigenic E.Coli and Select Serum and Immune Parameters During Pre and Peri-Weaning Period in Goat Kids

Abstract Probiotics are microorganisms generally regarded as safe (GRAS) that have a beneficial effect when ingested by a host. While research on the benefits of probiotics in farm animals has mainly concentrated on major livestock species, little is documented on potential benefits in small ruminants. Probiotics in goats and sheep could offer a dual benefit of reducing pathogenic bacteria loads and resulting in improved immunity and overall health. In this study, we evaluated the effect of one-month daily commercial probiotic administration followed by weekly administration until weaning and daily administration for one week after weaning on select serum parameters, and also the prevalence of pathogenic E.coli in healthy pre-weaned goat kids beginning at two days of age. Overall, the general health of the animals in both groups remained the same throughout the study period. No significant difference in total lactic acid bacteria was detected between probiotic supplemented and control group. Probiotic administration generally improved the total serum protein and immune markers. The difference was significant after twenty-eight days of administration and two days after weaning for total serum protein and immune markers, respectively. Shiga toxin E.coli (STEC) was detected in both control and probiotic-treated goats in early life, but no significant differences were detected between treatment groups on prevalence. These results suggest that daily probiotic administration may have some health benefits in pre-weaned goats.

Isolation, characterization, structural elucidation and in vivo hepatoprotective studies of phytoconstituents obtained from the fruits of &lt;i&gt;Cordia obliqua&lt;/i&gt; Willd

Purpose: To isolate, characterize, and investigate the hepatoprotective effect of phyto-constituents from fruits of Cordia obliqua Wild in paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats.&#x0D; Methods: Ethanol and aqueous extracts of C. obliqua fruits were screened for phytochemicals. The extracts were subjected to column chromatography and preparative thin-layer chromatography (TLC) to isolate four novel compounds. Compounds were characterized using infrared spectroscopy (IR), mass spectroscopy (MS), as well as 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The isolated compounds were assessed for acute toxicity, in vivo hepatoprotective and antioxidant potential (dose: 5 mg/kg) in paracetamol-induced (75 mg/kg) hepatotoxicity through oral route in Wistar rats.&#x0D; Results: Phytochemical analysis of ethanol (COE) indicated the presence of fatty acids, anthraquinones, glycosides, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, phenolics, triterpenes, and sterols. Compounds A, B, and C were identified from COE. Treatment at 50 mg/kg significantly reduced aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGTP), and total bilirubin (TB), as well as increased total protein and total alkalinity levels in serum compared to the positive control. Liver histo-architecture showed improvements compared to the positive control, indicating hepatic protection.&#x0D; Conclusion: The isolated compounds (A, B and C) from COE exhibit hepatoprotective effects attributed to flavonoids and phenolics with free radical scavenging properties. Further research is needed to identify key mechanisms responsible for hepatoprotective effects.

Effects of Fermented Soybean Meal Substituting Plant Protein and Fish Meal on Growth, Flesh Quality, and Intestinal Microbiota of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)

This study investigated the effects of replacing soybean meal (SM), corn gluten meal (CGM), and fish meal (FM) with fermented soybean meal (FSM) on growth performance, flesh quality, and intestinal microbiota of largemouth bass. In a diet with 400 g/kg FM inclusion (FSM-0), FSM was used to substitute 120 g/kg SM, 120 g/kg SM + 80 g/kg CGM, and 65 g/kg FM at the inclusion of 100 g/kg (FSM-10-SM), 200 g/kg (FSM-20), and 100 g/kg (FSM-10-FM), respectively. Then, largemouth bass weighing 225.7 ± 2.6 g was fed the four diets for 60 days. The WG of FSM-20 group was increased by 11.8% ( P &lt; 0.05 ), while FSM-10-SM and FSM-10-FM groups did not differ significantly from FSM-0 group in growth performance. Compared with the FSM-0 group, the flesh hardness, shear force, total collagen, hot soluble collagen, and total free amino acid contents of FSM-20 group were significantly increased, and FSM-10-SM group also presented higher flesh hardness and shear force. The flesh superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) activities in FSM-20 and FSM-10-FM groups and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in FSM-10-FM group were increased ( P &lt; 0.05 ), while the lactic acid content in FSM-20 group was decreased, when compared to FSM-0 group ( P &lt; 0.05 ). In serum biochemical indexes, the glucose, total protein, cholesterol and malondialdehyde contents in the three FSM groups, and the triglyceride content in FSM-10-SM and FSM-20 groups were significantly lower than those of FSM-0 group ( P &lt; 0.05 ). In intestinal histology, the intestinal villus width, muscle thickness in FSM-10-SM group and intestinal villus width in FSM-20 group were significantly higher than those of FSM-0 group. In intestinal microbiota, the three FSM groups showed higher abundance of Firmicutes and lower abundance of Proteobacteria than FSM-0 group. In summary, the replacement of 120 g/kg SM or 65 g/kg FM with 100 g/kg FSM (FSM-10-SM and FSM-10-FM groups) did not exhibit significant effect on growth performance, but partially improved the flesh quality of largemouth bass. The substitution of 120 g/kg SM + 80 g/kg CGM with 200 g/kg FSM (FSM-20 group) significantly improved weight gain and flesh quality of largemouth bass.

213 Effect of Continuous Or Intermittent Feeding of Ergot Contaminated Grain in a Mash Or Pelleted Form on the Performance and Health Parameters of Finishing Beef Steers

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of feeding pelleted or mash ergot contaminated grain fed continuously or intermittently on the growth performance, blood serum variables, and carcass quality of finishing beef steers. Sixty black angus steers (442 ± 36.7 kg) were used in a complete randomized finishing (90% concentrate:10% barley silage DM basis) 126-d study. Steers were randomly assigned to 4 different treatments and individually housed. Treatments included: 1) control ration [CON; no added ergot alkaloids (EA)], 2) continuous ergot mash (CEM; fed continuously at 2 ppm total EA), 3) intermittent ergot mash (IEM; fed at 2 ppm EA during the first week of each 21-d period and control diet for the remaining 2 weeks), and 4) intermittent ergot pellet (IEP; fed at 2 ppm EA incorporated into a pelleted supplement during the first week of each 21-d period and control diet for the other 2 weeks). Steers were weighed every 21 d and blood samples were collected on day 0, 42, 84, and 126. Steer DMI (P &amp;lt; 0.01, 9.95 vs. 11.05 kg/day) and ADG (P = 0.04) decreased for all EA treatments compared with the CON. Total shrunk BW gain (P = 0.03, 202.5 vs. 225.2 kg), final BW (P = 0.03, 617.9 vs. 662.2 kg), and carcass weight (P = 0.06) decreased for all EA steers compared with the CON steers. No treatment effects (P &amp;gt; 0.05) were observed for carcass dressing percentage, ribeye area, marbling score, or liver abscess. The percent of carcasses graded AAA decreased for all EA steers compared CON steers (P &amp;lt; 0.01, 46.7 vs. 93.3%). Steers fed EA had increased rectal temperature compared with CON steers (P &amp;lt; 0.01, 39.8 vs. 39.4 °C). Hair cortisol concentrations were less in steers fed IEP (P = 0.05, 1.23 vs. 1.76 pg/mg) than CON. No treatment effects (P &amp;gt; 0.05) were observed for complete blood count, and serum prolactin, haptoglobin, albumin, alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase, amylase, calcium, creatine, glucose, lipase, total bilirubin, total protein, or globulin. Blood urea nitrogen was less for EA steers compared with CON (P = 0.01, 3.48 vs. 4.10 mmol/L). The IEM steers had decreased concentrations of serum gamma-glutamyl transferase compared with IEP steers (P = 0.04, 23.4 vs. 28.5 IU). Pelleting ergot contaminated grain did not reduce the impact of ergot alkaloids on any of the measured parameters. Results suggest that continuously or intermittently feeding an ergot contaminated diet (2 ppm EA) can significantly reduce intake, growth performance, and carcass weight, with minimal impact on blood serum variables in finishing steers. Pelleting was not an effective method of reducing ergot toxicity.

Utilizing a Machine Learning Approach to Define Racial Difference in Multi-Systemic Impact of Monoclonal Protein in Patient with Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second common hematologic malignancy characterized by the clonal proliferation of plasma cells. While the clinical outcomes of MM have been improved significantly, there remains an intriguing observation regarding the potential influence of race on disease biology and treatment response. In MM, the malignant plasma cell clone not only disrupts the local bone marrow microenvironment but also exerts a systemic impact on various physiological processes result in significant derangements in immune function, hematopoiesis, renal function, bone metabolism, and electrolyte homeostasis. Understanding the extent of this systemic impact and its potential variation between racial groups is crucial for optimizing patient care and treatment strategies. Here, we hypothesized that the systemic impact of the plasma cell clone does not differ significantly between African American and Caucasian patients. We employed a machine learning approach to capture the full spectrum of systemic effects comprehensively. Our novel model was trained to predict the magnitude of the plasma cell clone, as represented by serum monoclonal protein levels. By systematically comparing model performance with and without the inclusion of race as a variable, we sought to evaluate the potential influence of race on the systemic impact of the plasma cell clone. Method: A total of 171 patients with plasma cell dyscrasias including 1,472 observations were analyzed. where the upper limit of the observed M-spike was 3.5 gr/dL. Forty three clinical and lab variables as predictors of M-spike were fed into the machine learning model. Two lagged variables as the last two preceding M-spike values by the same subject were included. The random forest model was used, where regression forests are an ensemble of different regression trees and are used for nonlinear multiple regression. The goal of using a large number of trees was to train enough that each feature had a chance to appear in several models. The data was randomly split into a training set (80%) and a test set (20%), and a regression tree was built with the training set and then validated using the test set. Bootstrapping was used to generate a collection of data sets (n=500). Importance was measured by leaving a covariate out of models and comparing performance with its inclusion. Result: The training set used to develop the ML algorithm comprised 749 patient-based observations, which represented ~50% of the patient-based observations. The number of observations at each M-Spike value and the distribution of M-Spike values measured by SPEP are shown (Fig. 1). The residual distribution of the RF model indicated that nearly all M-spike values determined using the 43 variables distributed equally on either side of zero. The addition of race as variables did not significantly change the residual plots. The weighted value of each of the 43 independent variables was determined by individually removing a variable from the ML algorithm and measuring its effect on the mean squared error (MSE). As shown, removal of the first lagged M-spike, serum total protein, second-lagged M-spike, serum IgG, serum IgM, and serum IgA, had the greatest effects on the ML algorithm. The effect of race was then added to the ML algorithm. However, patient race had a low weighted value compared to the other variables included in the ML algorithm (Fig-2). M-spike values determined using the ML algorithm correlated highly with M-spike values determined using the laboratory measured SPEP values as indicated by the proximity of the Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients to +1 . Using the 43 independent variables, the Pearson coefficient was 0.96 and the Spearman coefficient was 0.91, when M-spike values determined using the ML algorithm were compared to laboratory determined M-spike values. When race was added as a variable in the ML algorithm, the Pearson coefficient was 0.95 and the Spearman coefficient was 0.94 which is not significantly different. Conclusion: Here, we present the results of our machine learning analysis, which further supports our hypothesis and sheds light on the potential racial difference in the overall systemic impact of MM. Understanding the factors underlying racial disparities in MM will pave the way for more personalized and equitable treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes and overall disease management.

Condition of surplus dairy calves during marketing: A cross-sectional study

In North America, surplus dairy calves are sold soon after birth and often marketed through a third party (e.g., live auction, livestock dealer) before entering veal or dairy beef production. Previous work has demonstrated that a percentage of calves have failed transfer of passive immunity (FTPI) and clinical signs of disease on arrival at calf-raising facilities, but little is known regarding calf condition during marketing. The objectives of this cross-sectional study were to (1) estimate the prevalence of FTPI and poor health outcomes in surplus calves on arrival at livestock dealers, and (2) investigate the association between calf-level variables (body weight, sex, source) and health outcomes. Two livestock dealers in Ohio were visited 2 to 3 times per week, with approximately 28 calves enrolled in the study per visit for a total of 1,119 calves. One blood sample per calf was obtained to evaluate FTPI by measuring serum total protein concentrations (using a cutoff <5.1 g/dL). Calves were clinically evaluated for signs of arthritis, broken ribs or tail, dehydration, depression, diarrhea, fever, navel inflammation, and respiratory disease by 2 observers; health outcomes were dichotomized using clinically relevant cut points. Descriptive statistics were used to estimate the prevalence of calves with poor health outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression models were built to investigate the effect of body weight, sex, and source on health outcomes. Nineteen percent (206/1,091) of calves had FTPI.

Application of Omalizumab Combined with Enteral Nutrition in Treating Severe Allergic Asthma

To investigate the influence of omalizumab combined with enteral nutrition in treating severe allergic asthma, 102 patients in our hospital from May 2020 to May 2023 were retrospectively included, followed by dividing into a control group and a study group. The control group received only budesonide formoterol, and the study group accepted budesonide formoterol, omazumab, and an oral enteral hypernutrient polymer. After therapy, the asthma control test score, mini-asthma quality of life questionnaire score, hemoglobin level, serum total protein level, serum total immunoglobulin E level, forced expiratory volume in one second, forced expiratory volume in one second predicted, CD3+, CD4+, and CD4+/CD8+ in the study group presented higher than the control group, while CD8+, fractional concentration of exhaled nitric oxide level, and percentage of eosinophils in blood were lower. No difference was observed in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P = 0.34). To sum up, enteral nutrition combined with omalizumab can effectively inhibit airway inflammation, improve lung function, and promote the quality of life of severe allergic asthma patients with high safety, which opens a new way of biologically targeting therapy for asthma.

Origanum majorana Essential Oil Ameliorated the Behavioral, Biochemical, Physiological and Performance Perturbations Induced by Aflatoxin B1 in Growing Rabbits

Abstract The current study assessed the benefits of marjoram essential oil (MEO) in reducing the aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) toxicity in growing rabbits. Forty-eight rabbits, aged 4 weeks, were randomly assigned to four groups (4 replications of 3 rabbits/replicate) as follows: BD group (control); AFB1 group (supplemented with AFB1 0.3 mg/kg diet); MEO-supplemented group (1 g MEO/kg diet); AFB1 + MEO group (AFB1 0.3 mg/kg diet + 1 g MEO/kg diet). AFB1 exposure resulted in reduction of rabbit growth and total protein and albumin content in serum; increased liver function related enzymes (ALP, ALT and AST); induced oxidative stress displayed by lower level of antioxidant enzymes (CAT and GSH), increased biomarkers of DNA and lipid oxidative damage with significant upregulation of the tumor suppressor protein interferon-γ, interleukin 1β, tumor necrosis factor-α and heat shock protein-70 when compared to the control (P&lt;0.05). Moreover, exposure to AFB1 increased the bioaccumulation of AFB1 residues in rabbit liver. Supplementation of MEO in the AFB1-exposed rabbits alleviated all of its negative effects. In conclusion, dietary addition of 1 g MEO could effectively ameliorate the adverse impacts of AFB1 on rabbit growth; enhanced their antioxidants and reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory response indicators, as well as the AFB1 residues in liver.

Quantification of dietary valine requirement of fingerling Channa punctatus (Bloch) based on growth, feed conversion efficiency, carcass composition, hematology, and antioxidant status

A 12-week experiment was performed to determine the valine requirement of Channa punctatus (5.32 ± 0.08 g) by feeding purified diets (450 g/kg CP, 14.73 KJ/g DE) with graded levels of valine to triplicate groups of fishes to apparent satiation containing seven valine concentrations (7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 17.5, 20 and 22.5 g/kg diets). Absolute weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, protein retention efficiency, protein efficiency ratio, and RNA/DNA ratio improved (P < 0.05) with the increasing concentrations of valine up to 15 g/kg diet. Carcass protein and moisture content showed a positive trend with incremental valine levels up to 15 g/kg, whereas fat contents showed a reverse pattern. The highest hemoglobin, red blood corpuscle, and hematocrit were found at 15 g/kg of dietary valine. Total serum protein, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and lysozyme increased with the increase in valine up to 15 g/kg, whereas malondialdehyde, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase significantly decreased (P < 0.05). From the results of absolute weight gain, feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, and protein retention efficiency, the range of dietary valine requirement for C. punctatus is 15.9–17.2 g/kg diet.

Exploring the significance of interleukin-33/ST2 axis in minimal change disease

Minimal change disease (MCD), a common cause of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome, has been postulated to exhibit an association with allergic conditions. Recent studies revealed the crucial role of interleukin (IL)-33 in type 2 innate immunity. We hypothesized that development of MCD involves an IL-33–related immune response. We examined 49 patients with biopsy-proven MCD, 6 healthy volunteers, and 29 patients in remission. In addition to clinical features, serum and urinary levels of IL-33 and soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 protein (sST2), a secreted form of the receptor of IL-33, were analyzed. Although IL-33 was barely detectable in either MCD or control samples, sST2 levels at diagnosis were elevated in MCD patients. Serum sST2 levels of MCD patients were correlated with serum total protein level (r = − 0.36, p = 0.010) and serum creatinine level (r = 0.34, p = 0.016). Furthermore, the elevated sST2 levels were observed to decrease following remission. Immunofluorescence revealed IL-33 expression in the podocytes among MCD patients, with a significant increase compared with controls. In vitro, mouse podocyte cells incubated with serum from a MCD patient at disease onset showed increased IL-33 secretion. These results suggest an IL-33–related immune response plays a role in MCD.

Effects of black cumin, fenugreek, and sesame seeds as a mixture on performance, intestinal morphology, and blood traits of broilers under chronic heat stress conditions

This study aimed to investigate the impact of a seed mixture (SM) (black cumin, fenugreek, and sesame) on broiler chickens’ performance, intestinal morphology, and blood traits under chronic heat stress conditions. 330-day-old male Ross 308 chicks were divided into five treatments (6 replicates and 11 birds per each) consisting of a corn-soybean supplemented with 0, 1.5, 3, 4.5, and 6% SM for 45 days in a completely randomised design. 6% SM supplementation increased body weight (BW) at 45 days of age, average weight gain (AWG) at 26-45 days, and total rearing period under heat stress conditions (p < 0.05). Adding 3% SM to broiler diets increased average feed intake (AFI) at 26-45 and 1-45 days, feed conversion ratio (FCR) at 12-25, and the mortality rate decreased from 28.8% (0% SM) to 12.1% (6% SM) (p < 0.05). Adding SM had no significant effects on the relative weight of carcase segments and internal organs (p > 0.05) except for the duodenum, which increased weight and length at the level of 6% (p < 0.05). The red blood cell (RBC) count and haemoglobin were elevated in chicks inoculated with 3% and 6% SM, respectively (p < 0.05). The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) value increased following the supplementation of SM, while differential white blood cell (WBC) counts did not influence. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine transaminase (ALT) activity declined in chicks that received 6% SM at 45 days of age (p < 0.05). SM supplementation decreased liver steatosis, uric acid, glucose, total protein, and lipid profile concentrations of serum (p < 0.05). Therefore, we conclude that adding SM to the broiler diets at 6% level significantly improves broiler performance, blood traits, and liver health under chronic heat-stress conditions.

Safety and risk assessment of methanol extract of Ocimum gratissimum leaf on Wistar rats

Methanol extract of Ocimum gratissimum was investigated for its effects on Wistar rats using some kidney and liver functional indices as ‘markers’. Twenty- eight (28) albino rats weighing 180-200 g was randomly assigned into four groups (A-D) of seven animals each. Animals in groups B-D was orally administered on daily basis with 0.5 ml of the extract corresponding to 50,100 and 200 mg/kg body weight of the extract respectively for 14 days while those in the control group received orally 0.5 ml of distilled water. Rats in all the groups were sacrificed 24 hours after the completion of their respective doses and serum, liver and kidney tissue samples were collected for biochemical parameters. The extract significantly (p&lt;0.05) decreased serum, liver and kidney ALP, AST and ALT. The extract also significantly (p&lt;0.05) reduced serum urea, uric acid and creatinine. Contrastingly, the extract significantly (p &lt; 0.05) increase in serum albumin, globulin and total protein respectively when compared with the normal control at 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight respectively. The effect of administration of the extract on serum Na+, K+, Cl- and HCO3- ions shows a significant (p&lt;0.05) decrease when compared with the normal control with the exception of an increase in K+ ion concentration at 200 mg/kg bwt when compared with the normal control. The biochemical alterations from this result suggest that the extract of Ocimum gratissimum may induce hyponatremia and hypokalaemia at high dosage possibly by altering the Na + /H – exchanger with aldosterone without causing assault or injury to the hepatic, nephrotic and /or tubular function.

Effect of high-sucrose diet on liver enzymes and serum protein levels of Wistar albino rats

A global change in dietary habits has led to the introduction of sweeteners in foods. This study investigated the effect of concentrations of sucrose on liver enzymes and serum protein levels in Wistar rats. Thirty-five (35) Wistar rats were equally randomized into seven groups and fed with a rat diet mixed with sucrose at concentrations of 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% w/w, while the control group was fed on a normal diet without sucrose. Their blood samples were analyzed for total protein, albumin, ALT, AST, ALK phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (ƔGT) levels. The results indicated that there was a significant (p&lt;0.05) increase in AST (16.00-82.00 µ/L), ALT (44.00-90.80 µ/L), ALK Phos (44.00-90.80 µ/L), and a corresponding decrease in total proteins (69.80-61.39 g/L), albumin (36.00-34.00 g/L) and ƔGT (493.00-191.00 µ/L) levels as the concentration of sucrose increased. Rats fed with sucrose diets had higher levels of AST (39.27 µ/L), ALT (14.50 µ/L), and ALK Phos (68.47 µ/L) than rats fed with normal diets. Therefore, high doses of sucrose can cause increases in serum liver enzymes and total proteins that are suggestive of liver necrosis. Hence, by decreasing the concentrations of sucrose, the liver may be protected.

An underestimated old friend: Serum protein electrophoresis in the differential diagnosis of glomerulopathies

Background: Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) is an easy test separating serum proteins based on their physical and chemical properties. Although it is frequently used in the differential diagnosis of multiple myeloma and various chronic inflammatory diseases, its value in the etiologic classification of glomerular diseases has yet to be studied.&#x0D; Material and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent renal biopsy from 2008 to 2016 at our institution. We excluded patients who can not be classified as primary (PGn) or secondary glomerulonephritis (SGn). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed for the prediction of SGn. &#x0D; Results: Four hundred thirty-two patients were included in the study. Of those, 57.9% had PGn. Rheumatological diseases, malignancies, and infections were the most common etiologic causes of SGn, accounting for nearly 75%. Univariate analysis revealed that alpha-1 (α1), gamma (Ɣ), and albumin fractions significantly differ between PGn and SGn groups. ROC curve analysis determined the cut-off value of (α1*Ɣ)/albumin ratio as 1.48. Multivariate analysis revealed that total serum protein and (α1*Ɣ)/albumin ratio were significantly independent predictors for SGn (p=0.020 and p

Production performance, haematological parameters, serum biochemistry, and expression of HSP-70 in broiler chickens fed dietary ascorbic acid during heat stress.

An experiment was carried out to assess the efficacy of supplemental ascorbic acid (AA) on broiler chicken production performance, blood haematological profile, biochemical profile, and carcass traits under heat stress conditions. A total of 192-day-old broiler chicks were divided into four groups, each with six replicates of eight each (4 × 6 × 8). Four corn-based dietary treatments were formulated: T1 (control diet), T2 (T1 + AA at 200mg/kg), T3 (T1 + AA at 400mg/kg), and T4 (T1 + AA at 600mg/kg) for a period of 42days. Despite the high temperature and humidity, the 600mg AA supplemental groups (T4) gained significantly (P ≤ 0.05) more body weight and had a higher feed intake and better feed conversion ratio (FCR) than the control group (T1). After 28days of feeding the three AA-supplemented diets, antibody titres (humoral immune response) were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05). The response to intradermally injected phyto-haemagglutinin (PHA-P), an index of the in vivo cell-mediated immune response, was found to be increased (P ≤ 0.05) in the 400 and 600mg AA-supplemented groups after 35days. Higher levels of AA (T4) supplementation significantly (P ≤ 0.05) improved haematological values such as haemoglobin (Hb), total erythrocyte count (TEC), total leukocyte count (TLC), and differential leukocyte count (DLC), heterophil:lymphocyte (H:L) in comparison to the control group (T1). The supplemented group improved the serum biochemical profile of the birds, with an increase (P ≤ 0.05) in total serum protein, albumin, and globulin and a decrease in serum cholesterol and corticosterone levels in the T4 group compared to the control group. Heat shock protein-70 (HSP-70) was gradually elevated after increasing the ascorbic acid concentration (P ≤ 0.05) at 14 and 21days. As a result, it can be concluded that supplementing ascorbic acid at 600mg/kg is beneficial for improving the performance, immunity, and blood haematological biochemical profile and upregulating the HSP-70 gene of broiler chickens under heat stress conditions.

PSIV-13 Evaluation of Floor Space Restriction and Hyper-Dosing of Phytase on Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Serum Chemistry of Late Finishing Pigs

Abstract This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of strategically applied hyper-dosing of phytase on growth performance, carcass characteristics and serum chemistry profile of late finishing pigs housed under space-restricted conditions. A total of 375 finishing pigs (94.63 ± 0.61 kg) were randomly assigned to 48 pens, with 7 to 8 pigs per pen equally balanced for gilts and barrows. Two phytase supplementation doses (control of 2,500 FTU/kg or hyper-dose of 5,000 FTU/kg) and two space allocation dimensions (adequate with 0.85 m2/pig or restricted with 0.66 m2/pig) were combined to create 4 treatments in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement. Pigs were fed a finishing diet formulated to contain 0.68% standardized ileal digestible (SID) lysine, 0.55% Ca, and 0.24% available P and phytase was given equal matrix values for Ca, P, SID amino acids, and net energy for both supplementation levels. Analyzed dietary phytase concentrations were 2,970 and 6,560 FTU/kg for the 2,500 and 5,000 FTU/kg treatments, respectively. The 3 heaviest pigs per pen (2 barrows and 1 gilt) were marketed on d 28 and the remaining pigs were marketed on d 42. No interactions; P &amp;gt; 0.10) were observed between floor space allowance and phytase supplementation. Pig body weight was determined weekly and was reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.008) by restriction of space on week 3 (116.7 vs. 118.4 kg), and 4 (time of first marketing; 123.6 vs. 125.4 kg) and tended to be reduced (P &amp;lt; 0.08) on week 5 (125.5 vs. 127.8 kg), and 6 (second marketing; 133.0 vs. 135.3 kg). Body weight considering all pigs marketed (d 28 and d 42) was reduced (P = 0.009; 133.9 vs. 135.4) by space restriction. Space restriction reduced ADG during week 1, 3, the first marketing period, and for all pigs marketed (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Similarly, ADFI was reduced in space restricted pigs for all periods (P ≤ 0.001), but gain:feed was not impacted (P &amp;gt; 0.08). Back fat depth and loin eye area measured using ultrasound was not impacted by space restriction. Hyper-dosing with phytase did not impact (P &amp;gt; 0.06) growth performance or carcass characteristics, regardless of space allowance. Space restriction and phytase supplementation did not impact serum chemistry except for increased serum total protein and decreased urea N (P &amp;lt; 0.05) due to space restriction and decreased aspartate transaminase with hyper-dosing phytase. Results indicate that restricted floor space allowance reduced growth rate, feed intake and body weight of late finishing pigs and that hyper-dosing phytase was not an effective strategy in improving growth performance regardless of space allowance.

Unraveling the interaction between lead and calcium in occupationally exposed males: an exploratory observation study.

The systemic illnesses associated with chronic lead exposure are partially explained by the interaction between lead and calcium metabolism. Lead exposure is posited to alter calcium levels either by altering calcium homeostasis markers or altering bone remodeling. The present study investigated the interaction between blood lead levels and calcium homeostasis markers and bone remodeling markers among lead-smelting plant workers. Adult male workers employed at the lead-smelting plant were clinically investigated as part of their regular occupational health assessment program. Additionally, control participants without occupational lead exposure, employed in administrative and white-collar jobs were invited to participate in the study. Sociodemographic and occupational details were collected by pre-standardized semi-structured questionnaires from all consenting participants, followed by clinical examination and blood collection. Blood lead levels were estimated using microwave-assisted acid digestion and the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry technique. Serum calcium and total protein and alkaline phosphatase levels were estimated as per standard biochemical techniques. 25-hydroxy vitamin-D3, calcitriol, and osteocalcin were estimated using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition to comparative analysis for comparing the two groups, independent linear regression models were explored to investigate the associations between serum calcium and blood lead and osteocalcin levels. A total of 189 lead-exposed men employed at the lead-smelting plant and 25 male control participants consented to participate. The two groups were similar in age, diet, and body mass index. Occupationally exposed individuals exhibited significantly lower serum calcium and higher bone remodeling markers (osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase) as compared to controls. However, the serum 25-hydroxy vitamin-D3 and calcitriol levels were not significantly different between the two groups. Lastly, the serum lead and osteocalcin were weakly but significantly associated with serum calcium levels after controlling for variations in total protein, diet, 25-hydroxy vitamin-D3, calcitriol, and alkaline phosphatase in the study participants. Current observations reinforce the adverse role of lead exposure on calcium metabolism. Although lead exposure is posited to affect calcium metabolism by multiple pathways, current study observations favor the bone remodeling pathway. The observations recommend periodic screening for calcium and bone health among lead-exposed adults.

Effect of Nigella sativa Seed Supplementation on Hematology, Acid-base Parameters, and Serum Biochemical Parameters in Nubian Goat Fed an Aflatoxin Contaminated Diet

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Nigella sativa (NS) seed supplementation on hematology, acid-base parameters, and serum biochemical parameters in Nubian goats fed an Aflatoxin-contaminated diet. In a completely randomized design, 20 growing male goats (aged 8-9 months; 11±0.5 kg) were allocated to five treatments (4 goats/treatment). The control group (G1) received a basal diet. The treatment groups received the same diet contaminated with 150 ppb Aflatoxin (G2), and other treatments received an Aflatoxin-contaminated diet supplemented with different levels of crushed NS seeds 2% (G3), 4% (G4), and 6% (G5). Blood samples were collected after 40 day feeding period to determine blood pH, glucose, hematological and biochemical parameters. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the significant differences among the treatments. Hemoglobin concentration (Hb), total erythrocytes count (TEC), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), serum total protein (TP), and globulins (GB) were significantly (P≤0.05) decreased by Aflatoxin-contaminated diet, whereas total leukocytes count (TLC) increased (P≤0.05). Supplementing NS seeds to an Aflatoxin-contaminated diet significantly (P≤0.05) increased Hb, TEC, TP, and GB. Lipid profile and serum liver enzymes were significantly (P≤0.05) increased by an Aflatoxin-contaminated diet. Supplementing NS seeds to an Aflatoxin-contaminated diet caused a decrease (P≤0.05) in lipid profile and serum liver enzymes. Supplementing NS seeds to an Aflatoxin-contaminated diet resulted in a good performance and improved physiological status, the superior effect to an Aflatoxin-contaminated diet supplemented with 6% NS seeds. The study recommended supplementing 6% NS seeds to goat diets to reduce suspected Aflatoxin contamination. Further investigations are needed to assess the protective effect of NS seeds in other animal species fed on Aflatoxin-contaminated diets.