Serum Total Protein Concentrations Research Articles

Relationship between morphometric measurements and blood parameters in horses with varying adiposity levels and physiological conditions.

Understanding and finding the correlation between morphometric measurements and horse blood parameters is crucial for predicting equine metabolic issues. This study aims to analyse morphometric measurements and blood samples in horses with varying adiposity levels. Cross-sectional observational. A total of 50 horses were included in the study and categorized into groups based on their body condition score (BCS) and cresty neck score (CNS). The insulin concentration was significantly higher in overweight horses (p=0.022). Female horses exhibited higher cortisol concentrations (p=0.025) and girth circumference at the withers (p=0.004) compared to males. Lactating mares exhibited higher concentrations of serum total protein (p=0.012) and globulin (p=0.003). A positive correlation was observed between BCS and insulin concentrations (r=0.290, p=0.041). Negative correlations were found between neck circumference to height at withers and glucose (r=-0.309, p=0.029), CNS and glucose (r=-0.315, p=0.026) as well as between crest diameter and cortisol (r=-0.360, p=0.01). Increasing the sample size and conducting longitudinal studies would enhance the study's validity and reliability. Although insulin, glucose and cortisol concentrations have predictive capabilities based on signs and certain morphometric measurements, their correlations are not always strong. Therefore, this study challenges the notion that all overweight horses are unhealthy, as overweight horses can still have good metabolic health. Conversely, lean horses may also experience metabolic issues. Hence, relying solely on visual cues is insufficient to diagnose the metabolic status of horses. Other factors must also be considered to assess their health status accurately.

A New Strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in Diets of Lactating Holstein Cows Improved Feed Efficiency and Lactation Performance

Abstract This study compared the effects of feeding a new strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae HSA2020 with a commercial strain on in vitro rumen fermentation and production performance of dairy cows. Permeate was used as a substrate for the laboratory production of the new strain of S. cerevisiae after the hydrolysis by β-galactosidase (5000 µ/mL at 37°C). Two experiments were conducted: in Experiment 1, the effects of three levels (1, 2 and 3 g/kg dry matter) of S. cerevisiae on in vitro ruminal fermentation kinetics were evaluated. In Experiment 2, for 60 days, sixty multiparous Holstein cows (639±24.8 kg BW, 3±1 parity, 7±1 days in milk, with a previous milk production of 23±2.0 kg/d) during the previous lactation, were randomly assigned to 3 treatments in a completely randomized design. Cows were fed without any additives (control treatment) or supplemented with 2 g/kg feed daily of laboratory produced (PY) or commercial (CY) S. cerevisiae. In Experiment 1, inclusion of PY and CY increased (P<0.05) gas production, propionate, and nutrient disappearance, while decreased (P<0.05) methane production and protozoal count. Moreover, in Experiment 2, PY followed by CY increased (P<0.01) nutrient digestibility, and serum concentrations of total protein, albumin, and glucose (P<0.05). Higher daily milk yield, and milk energy output were observed with PY and CY without affecting concentrations of milk components or milk fatty acid profile. Compared to control, increased feed efficiency was observed with PY and CY. Compared to PY, CY increased serum concentrations of urea-N and decreased triglycerides, while PY decreased serum aspartate transaminase and increased concentration of conjugated linoleic acids in milk. In early lactating cow diets, both strains of S. cerevisiae improved production performance at 2 g/kg, and minimal differences between strains were found.

Plasma volume response patterns and a physiologic model of ultrafiltration in hemodialysis.

Ultrafiltration (UF) is an essential process of restoring fluid homeostasis during hemodialysis (HD). Fluid shifts across the extracellular compartments during UF, predominantly across the capillary interface and between the macro- and microcirculation. A mismatch between UF and transcapillary fluid transport can lead to hemodynamic instability leading to cardiac morbidity. We wished to study intradialytic fluid transport characteristics and their variation during UF to identify factors that govern variability in transcapillary fluid movement in HD. Twenty-two patients undergoing stable HD sessions were studied to measure and monitor absolute blood and plasma volume throughout UF. A computational mathematical model of predicted plasma volume decay during UF was analyzed with respect to the intradialytic real-time data profile. Pre- and post-dialysis fluid status was assessed using multifrequency bioimpedance spectroscopy. Serum electrolytes, osmolality, and total protein concentration were measured pre- and post-dialysis and during the intradialytic phase. Two distinct profiles of PV responses were detected. 60% of the patients presented plasma volume decline, characterized by a high percentage of volume decrease during the first hour, and a subsequent slower decrease with early rebound. The model was modified to achieve a proper fit of these volume profiles, assuming time-dependent changes in selected parameters governing the refilling flow. Although the modified model could more accurately fit the data, the new parameter values often fell outside of a physiologically acceptable range, suggesting that other factors not included in the classic description of transcapillary fluid transport might be the cause of the observed patterns.

Comparative Analysis of the Potential Adaptability of Tibetan Dzo and Yellow Cattle Based on Blood Indices, Metabolites, and Fecal Microbiota.

This study aimed to investigate the differences in environmental adaptability between dzo and Tibetan yellow cattle by using corresponding assay kits to analyze blood indices, utilizing mass spectrometry for blood metabolite profiling, and performing 16S rDNA sequencing of fecal microbiota. Forty female cattle were randomly divided into a dzomo (female dzo) group (MG, n = 20) and a Tibetan-yellow-cattle group (HG, n = 20). After 150 days of uniform feeding, six cattle from each group were randomly picked for jugular blood sampling and collection of fecal microorganisms. The results showed that the serum albumin, creatinine, total protein, superoxide dismutase, IgG, and IgM concentrations in the MG group were higher (p < 0.05), whereas the serum triglyceride concentration was lower, compared to the HG group (p < 0.05). The higher level of phospholipids containing long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (PC (18:5e/2:0), PC (20:5e/2:0), LPC 18:2, LPC 20:5) observed in the serum of the dzo suggests that they have an advantage in adapting to the challenging conditions of the plateau environment. The fecal microbiota analysis showed that Akkermansia was significantly enriched in the MG group; this might be the key bacterial genus leading to the strong adaptability of dzo. Our findings indicated the dzo's superior adaptation to the Tibetan Plateau's harsh environment.

A field study to optimize protein and lipid levels in diet for cage-cultured subadult rockfish Sebastes schlegelii

A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate growth, body composition, serum biochemistry, digestion and metabolism, and oxidation resistence of S. schlegelii fed 9 diets in a 3×3 factorial design (protein levels: 44 %, 48 %, 52 %; lipid levels: 6 %, 10 %, 14 %), to optimize protein and lipid levels for practical feed formula. Rockfish (114.25 g) were stocked into 27 cages in an offshore system and fed test diets to satiation twice daily for 8 weeks. Growth increased but feed conversion rate decreased with dietary protein increasing. Increasing dietary protein to >48 % led to reduced feeding intake but increased protein efficiency ratio. Lipid efficiency ratio increased with dietary protein increasing but decreased with dietary lipid increasing. Hepatosomatic index decreased coupling with the increases in condition factor and liver lipid content as dietary lipid increased to 14 %. Intraperitoneal fat ratio increased with dietary lipid increasing. Increasing dietary protein to > 48 % significantly elevated serum total protein and glucose concentrations, hepatic glycogen synthase activity. High-protein (52 %) diets elevated serum albumin and urea nitrogen concentrations, hepatic pyruvate kinase and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities but downregulated hepatic growth-hormone (GH) receptor. Activities of trypsin, lipase, serum superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity decreased with the dietary lipid increasing. Increasing dietary lipid to > 10 % reduced serum GH concentration, and high-lipid (14 %) diets significantly enhanced serum triglyceride concentration and hepatic transaminases activities, and resulted in a visual increase of adipocytes in liver. Serum cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein decreased as dietary protein increased to 48–52 % or dietary lipid >10 %. Hepatic succinate dehydrogenase activity and serum IGF-1 significantly increased while hepatic fatty acid synthetase decreased as dietary protein increased to >48 % or dietary lipid >10 %. High-protein (52 %) diet or high-lipid (14 %) diet elevated serum malonaldehyde concentration. These findings suggested 48 % protein and 10 % lipid were the optimal in diet for subadult S. schlegelii.

Effect of goose-derived adiponectin peptide gADP3 on LPS-induced inflammatory injury in goose liver

ABSTRACT 1. This study evaluated the effects and mechanisms of action of the peptide gADP3 on hepatic inflammatory injury induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). 2. Hepatic inflammatory injury was induced in geese by intraperitoneal injection of LPS and gADP3, and the adiponectin receptor agonist AdipoRon (positive control) was used for potential amelioration. Serum inflammatory factor levels, liver function-related biochemical indicators and oxidative stress-related biochemical parameters in the liver tissues were determined. The expression levels of adiponectin and its receptors, inflammation and oxidative stress-related genes and key signalling molecules involved in adiponectin, inflammation and oxidative stress signalling pathways in liver tissues were detected. 3. The peptide gADP3 alleviated inflammatory cell infiltration and hepatic inflammatory changes, reversed the decrease in serum albumin (ALB), total protein (TP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) content or activity induced by LPS and increased the activity of the antioxidant enzymes CAT (catalase), SOD (superoxide dismutase) and GSH-Px (glutathione peroxidase). 4. The peptide gADP3 upregulated the expression of antioxidant enzyme-related genes GCLC, HO-1 and NQO1 in liver tissues, decreased the levels of inflammatory factors like TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ and TGF-β and reduced mRNA expression levels of inflammatory-related genes TNF-α, IL-1β, iNOS and TGF-β. Additionally, it increased the mRNA and protein expression levels of adiponectin and its receptors, as well as key molecules in the adiponectin signalling pathway like AMPK and PPARα. In addition, gADP3 reversed the changes in mRNA or protein expression of inflammatory and oxidative stress signalling pathway-related genes P38MAPK, NF-κBP65, TLR4 and Nrf2 in liver tissues caused by LPS treatment. 5. In conclusion, goose-derived adiponectin peptide gADP3, similar to the adiponectin receptor agonist AdipoRon, attenuated LPS-induced hepatic inflammatory injury in geese.

Serum chemistry, thyroxine concentration, and blood cell morphology of wild, young Blackchin Guitarfish Glaucostegus cemiculus sampled on the eastern Mediterranean coastline.

The Blackchin Guitarfish Glaucostegus cemiculus is endemic to the Mediterranean Sea and is critically endangered, but relevant routine laboratory data are unavailable. Our objectives were to determine the packed cell volume (PCV), comprehensive serum chemistry analytes, and serum total thyroxine (sTT4) concentration; compare serum albumin and serum globulin concentrations as measured by two different methods; and describe the blood cell morphology of healthy, free-ranging Blackchin Guitarfish. Wild Blackchin Guitarfish were captured using a seine net. Blood samples for serum chemistry and hematological analyses were obtained and measured using routine laboratory methods. The fish were tagged and released. This study included 43 Blackchin Guitarfish (17 males and 26 females) that were younger than 6 months as estimated based on total length and body weight. The median PCV (n = 23) was 22% (minimum-maximum [min-max] = 15-25%). Median sTT4 (n = 10) measured by chemiluminescence immunoassay was 7.86 nmol/L (min-max = 7.52-9.57 nmol/L). The study included a comprehensive, 25-analyte serum chemistry analysis (e.g., serum iron and unbound and total iron-binding capacity) and a morphological description of all blood cells. Serum electrophoresis (SEP; n = 13) yielded a consistent serum albumin-migrating protein fraction and four globulin fractions. Serum electrophoretograms corroborating these results are presented. In Blackchin Guitarfish, the serum albumin-migrating fraction measured by SEP combined with serum total protein concentration yields a much higher albumin concentration compared to that measured by bromocresol green spectrophotometry. The true identity of this albumin-migrating fraction remains to be identified. The analytes' calculated 2.5-97.5% interpercentile intervals should be considered as reference intervals applying to Blackchin Guitarfish of similar age but should be applied cautiously to adult fish.

Comparison of biuret and refractometery method for serum total protein measurements in cattle and goat

ObjectivesThe biuret method is frequently used to determine serum total protein. On the other hand refractometer, a quicker and less expensive option, is available to determine serum total protein. However, there is no study conducted in Ethiopia to compare serum total protein measurement in veterinary settings. Therefore, this study was conducted to compare the serum total protein concentration measurement in cattle and goats obtained by the biuret method and refractometer.ResultsSerum samples from 60 cattle and 60 goats were assayed by both methods and data were analyzed with a paired t-test, Pearson’s correlation, and Bland-Altman plots. There was a strong positive correlation between the total protein values determined with the refractometer and the biuret method in cattle (r = 0.93) and goats (r = 0.97). There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the protein values measured with the refractometer and those evaluated with the biuret method in both species. Bland-Altman plots showed that biases indicating the analytic and user error were 8.33% in both species which is below the acceptable total error (< 10%). Thus, refractometer can be used in place of biuret method since it is valid enough to measure serum total protein in cattle and goats.

Effects of fermented jujube powder on growth performance, rumen fermentation, and antioxidant properties of simmental bulls.

Fermented jujube powder (FJP) promotes a balance between the intestinal microflora and immune factors in animals. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of FJP on the production performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation, and antioxidant properties of bulls. Forty Simmental bulls were randomly divided into four groups based on body weight and fed a basal diet with [5, 7.5, or 10% dry matter (DM)] or without FJP. The experimental period was 20 d for adaptation and 60 d for the feeding trial. Dietary FJP supplementation did not affect DM intake (P > 0.05) but increased the average daily gain quadratically (P = 0.049) and decreased the feed conversion ratio linearly (P = 0.042). FJP quadratically enhanced DM and crude protein digestibility (P = 0.026 and P = 0.041, respectively) and linearly enhanced acid detergent fiber digestibility (P = 0.048). It also increased the total volatile fatty acid concentration quadratically (P = 0.037), acetate molar percentage, and acetate-to-propionate ratio linearly (P = 0.002 and 0.001), and reduced the ammonia nitrogen concentration linearly (P = 0.003). Additionally, xylanase and protease activities and Ruminococcus flavefaciens abundance increased linearly (P = 0.006, 0.018, and 0.009, respectively), and total bacteria, Ruminococcus albus, and Ruminobacter amylophilus abundance increased quadratically (P = 0.047, 0.011, and 0.021, respectively). FJP linearly increased serum total protein concentration and antioxidant capacity (P = 0.003 and 0.018, respectively) and decreased malonaldehyde content (P = 0.006). FJP supplementation (7.5%) enhanced production performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation, and serum antioxidant capacity in bulls. The improved nutrient digestion may be due to an increase in ruminal microorganisms and total volatile fatty acids from the FJP. High blood antioxidant levels indicate that FJP may preserve proteins, thereby boosting the production performance of bulls.

Effect of diets containing probiotic yeast Cystobasidium benthicum and fruit Cyrtocarpa edulis on growth and immune parameters of Nile tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus)

This study investigates Cystobasidium benthicum (Cb) probiotic yeast and Cyrtocarpa edulis (Ce) fruit dietary effects, single (0.5 %) or combined (Cb:Ce, 0.25:0.25 %), on growth performance, humoral immunity in serum and skin mucus, and intestinal morphology of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) after 14 and 28 days. The Cb group presented the highest (P < 0.05) specific growth rate, weight gain, and absolute growth rate with respect to the control group. Immunological assays indicated that Cb, Ce and Cb:Ce groups increased serum nitric oxide concentration compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Cb and Cb:Ce groups showed the highest serum myeloperoxidase enzyme activity at day 14 and 28, respectively (P < 0.05); whereas, Cb:Ce group had the highest (P < 0.05) myeloperoxidase activity in skin mucus. The superoxide dismutase enzyme activity was unaffected. On day 28, Cb, Ce, and Cb:Ce groups showed higher and lower (P < 0.05) catalase enzyme activity in serum and skin mucus, respectively, compared with the control group. Only the Cb group had higher (P < 0.05) total protein concentration in serum (day 14) and skin mucus (day 14 and 28) with respect to the control group. The lysozyme activity in serum (day 28) and skin mucus (day 14) was higher (P < 0.05) in the Cb group compared to the control group. Only the skin mucus of Ce group showed bactericidal activity against Aeromonas dhakensis (P < 0.05). Histological studies indicated that Cb and Cb:Ce groups increased microvilli height, and Cb, Ce and Cb:Ce augmented goblet cell area at day 14 compared to the control group (P < 0.05). At day 28, microvilli height was higher in all groups and the number of intraepithelial leukocytes increased in Cb and Ce groups with respect to the control group (P < 0.05). The ex vivo assay revealed that A. dhakensis in leukocytes decreased cell viability similar to the control group (P < 0.05). A principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed the results. In conclusion, C. benthicum in the diet was the best supplement to improve the growth and immunity of Nile tilapia.

Oxidative stress and type 2 diabetes: the development and the pathogenesis, Jordanian cross-sectional study

Accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can disrupt the antioxidant defense system, leading to oxidative stress that leads to pathological damage to vital human organs, including hormone-producing glands. Normal physiological function is subsequently disrupted and disorders such as Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) may develop. The critical role of the antioxidant defense system in counteracting ROS and mitigating oxidative stress is fundamental to understanding the pathogenesis of T2DM. In our study, we monitored the oxidant/antioxidant status in a selected Jordanian population to further elucidate this relationship. Our results show higher serum levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA); 0.230 ± 0.05 and 0.207 ± 0.06 μmol/l for the diabetic and the obese groups, respectively, relative to 0.135 ± 0.04 μmol/l for the non-obese healthy group. Lower activity of Catalase (CAT) was recorded among the diabetic (9.2 ± 3.2) and obese groups (11.0 ± 2.8), compared to the non-obese healthy group (12.1 ± 3.5). Significant elevations (P < 0.05) were observed in uric acid concentrations in diabetic and obese subjects: 451 ± 57 mg/dl and 430 ± 51, respectively, versus 342 ± 57 mg/dl in the non-obese healthy group. Moreover, no significant differences were obtained between all the studied groups for the serum albumin and total protein concentrations. Our findings demonstrate the potential role of oxidative stress in the development and occurrence of T2DM.

Estimated breeding values of dairy sires for cow colostrum and transfer of passive immunity traits

The objective of this study was to derive the estimated breeding values (EBVs) of Holstein sires for colostrum and passive transfer of immunity traits to a) estimate the genetic association between these new traits and established production, conformation, and functional, and b) explore whether sires can be classified in specific profiles regarding the new traits. For cow colostrum traits, the study included 699 daughters of 67 sires from 6 commercial dairy herds. The number of daughters per sire ranged from 5 to 49. Passive transfer of immunity was measured as the blood serum total protein content in 854 purebred Holstein calves of 61 sires from 8 commercial dairy herds. The number of calves per sire ranged from 5 to 44. Data were statistically analyzed using mixed models. Approximate genetic correlations of the derived sire EBVs for cow colostrum and calf serum total protein with EBVs for several other traits were estimated. Moreover, sires were classified into colostrum and calf serum total protein profile groups. Approximate genetic correlations of cow colostrum and calf serum traits with milk production, conformation, and functional traits were mostly unfavorable. Colostrum total solids and protein contents were negatively correlated with milk yield, fat yield, protein yield, productive life, and livability. The only favorable correlation found was between colostrum total solids/calf serum total protein and daughter pregnancy rate. However, several bulls had favorable profiles in both colostrum/passive transfer of immunity and production traits. Colostrum/passive immunity traits could be included in future genetic improvement programs after careful structure of relevant indexes.

Relative merits of offering a milk replacer, glucose-electrolyte or whey-based diet on the blood composition and health of unweaned calves after transport

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to assess the relative merits of offering unweaned calves 3 different types of diets to meet energy and water deficits that can occur during journeys. Six young unweaned male Holstein calves were randomly selected from within 2 body weight ranges (median 48 and 42 kg) from each of 29 loads (total n = 174 calves) transported from an auction market or a collection center to a calf sorting center before transport to a veal unit. The calves were then randomly allocated to one of 3 dietary treatments (n = 58 calves/dietary treatment). They were offered either a milk replacer diet (M), a glucose-electrolyte diet (G) or a whey-based diet with added electrolytes (W). The ability of these diets to provide sufficient nutrient energy to restore vigor, avoid hypoglycaemia and clinical signs of dehydration without increasing the risk of diarrhea was assessed. A clinical assessment of dehydration, health and vigor was made, and the calves were blood sampled before feeding, then 2 h and 4 h after feeding. The plasma glucose concentration was increased 2 h and 4 h after feeding the M and W diets. The increases in plasma glucose concentration were greater 2 and 4 h after (a) feeding the M than after the W diet and (b) feeding the M and W diets than after the G diet. Back-transformed means and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) for the ratio of the plasma glucose concentration at 4 h compared with 0 h for the milk replacer, glucose-electrolytes and whey-based diets were 1.2 mM CI 1.21, 1.35; 0.95 mM CI 0.92, 0.97; and 1.09 mM CI 1.06, 1.14, respectively. There was no effect of diet on the change in serum total protein concentration between before feeding and 2 and 4 h after feeding. The serum osmolality was lower 2 h after feeding the G diet. The fall in serum osmolality was greater 2 h after feeding the G diet than after feeding the M and W diets. The changes in the serum osmolality between before feeding and 2 h after feeding for the milk replacer, glucose-electrolytes and whey-based diets were -0.68 mosmol CI -3.27, 1.91; -5.23 mosmol CI -7.82, and -2.64; -0.13 mosmol CI -2.77, 2.51, respectively. The diet offered at the sorting center had no effect on subsequent growth on the veal rearing farm between arrival and slaughter (milk replacer 1.22 kg/d, CI 1.17, 1.28; glucose-electrolyte diet 1.23 kg/d. CI 1.18, 1.28; whey-based diet 1.28 kg/d CI 1.23, 1.33). The M diet provided the calves with nutrients and water to replace energy and water deficits that had accumulated before arrival at the sorting center, and these dietary benefits were still apparent 4 h after feeding. The benefits of the W diet were similar to those of the M diet, but the M diet was better able to assist the calves in maintaining their plasma glucose concentration 4 h after feeding than the W diet. The G diet had some short-term benefits in providing energy and assistance to the calves to recover from dehydration, as indicated by a decrease in serum osmolality. However, the G diet was clearly inferior to the M and W diets in providing sufficient energy to assist the calves in recovering from the effects of transport and fasting. During the 4-h after feeding, no adverse effects of offering the calves the M or W diets were observed. The benefits of the W diet in replacing energy and water deficits were similar to those of the M diet, but the M diet was better able to assist the calves in maintaining their blood glucose concentration 4 h after feeding than the W diet.

Juvenile Cellulitis in a Labrador retriever- A case report

A labrador retriever pup aged 50 days was brought to Madras Veterinary College Small animal outpatient Unit with a history of anorexia, pyrexia, dullness with papules and pustules over muzzle and ear pinnae since three days. Facial edema, periocular edema and enlargement of pre scapular and submandibular lymphnodes were noticed on clinical examination. After complete physical examination, blood samples, skin scrapings, samples for bacterial culture and cytology were taken. Hemogram revealed anemia, serum biochemistry revealed low serum total protein concentration, skin scrapings were negative for parasites, no growth was present on bacterial culture from aspirated pustules, cytology from moist lesions showed presence of neutrophils and cocci. Based on the physical examination, hematological, biochemical and microbiological investigations, the present case was diagnosed as Canine Juvenile cellulitis and treatment initiated with antibiotic and corticosteroid parenterally for three days. There was a remarkable improvement noticed with reduced facial edema, reduced periocular edema and dry external ear pinnae. Treatment was continued with oral antibiotic for seven days and the pup recovered uneventfully.

Impact of Long-Term Camel Milk Consumption on Hepatic and Renal Biomarkers of Camel Nomads—An Observational Cross-Sectional Study from Southern Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract Objectives Camel milk is gaining popularity worldwide owing to its unique biochemical composition and therapeutic benefits. In persona to available data on camel milk's potential health attributes against noncommunicable diseases, this study examined camel milk's effect on hepatic and renal biomarkers of milk consumers. Materials and Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 51 camel nomads in the periurban areas of South Punjab, Pakistan. Structured questionnaire based on sociodemographic, dietary assessment, and blood sampling was done following simple random sampling technique to evaluate hematological, hepatic, and renal biomarkers. Results The results indicate hematological parameters including mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) to vary significantly between camel and cow milk consumers. Comparatively higher mean values of MCH, MCHC, and MCV, that is, 29.55 pg, 32.76 g/dL, and 89.61 fL, respectively, in male camel milk consumers than in females of the same group were observed. Camel milk consumption for the extended duration was found to anticipate significantly (p &lt; 0.05) higher total serum protein contents, 17.38 g/dL in males and 15.23 g/dL in females than observed in cow milk consumers. Conclusion The study validates that camel milk chronic consumption impacts some hematological changes to a significant level while indicating nonsignificant changes in renal and hepatic markers. Our study entertained sample population from one camel rearing region of the country. To better understand preventive and therapeutic properties of camel milk consumption against hepatic or renal disorders, sample populations from different regions may be enrolled and monitored for camel milk consumption, dietary patterns, and disease prevalence.

Optimal level of dietary arginine enhances growth performance, haemato-biochemical status, metabolic responses and growth-related gene expression of GIFT juveniles reared in inland saline water

The effects of arginine levels in diets on growth performance, survival, and haemato-biochemical responses and gene expression of genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT) juveniles raised in inland saline water (ISW) of 10 ppt were evaluated through a 60-day growth trial. Seven isoproteinaceous (⁓320 g protein/kg), isolipidic (80 g/kg) and isoenergetic (16.8 MJ DE/kg) diets with graded levels of arginine viz. A10 (10 g/kg), A12.5 (12.5 g/kg), A15 (15.0 g/kg), A17.5 (17.5 g/kg), A20 (20.0 g/kg), A22.5 (22.5 g/kg) and A25 (25.0 g/kg) were prepared. Acclimated GIFT juveniles (3.75 ± 0.017 g) were randomly assigned into seven treatments in triplicate with 15 fish/replicate and fed with respective diets thrice a day on a satiation basis. The percent weight gain, specific growth rate, protein efficiency ratio, whole carcass protein, tissue alanine and aspartic acid aminotransferase activities, serum total protein, albumin and globulin concentration and expression of IGF-1 & IGF-1R genes of fish significantly increased, while feed conversion ratio significantly decreased with increasing arginine in the diet up to 17.5 g/kg and decreased thereafter. Additionally, white blood cell count increased with rising arginine levels in the diet. However, body indices, survival, whole carcass lipid, total ash and essential amino acids contents, activities of digestive and antioxidant enzymes, serum glucose level and blood haemoglobin level and red blood cell count of fish remained unchanged for different treatments. Based on broken-line regression and second order polynomial regression models in relation to hepatic IGF-1 gene expression and percent weight gain, the dietary optimal arginine level was found to be 15.97 and 16.76 g/kg and 17.06 and 17.41 g/kg, respectively with the optimum range of 15.97 to 17.41 g/kg for successful culture of GIFT in ISW of 10 ppt salinity.

Salivary IgG and IgA in newborn calves and the possible role in the assessment of passive immunity transfer.

The transfer of immunoglobulins from the mother to newborns is widely recognized as a critical event for safeguarding offspring against potentially life-threatening infectious diseases. Mainly for this reason, this study aimed to assess the concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the saliva of newborn calves and explore its potential use for monitoring passive immunity transfer from cows to calves, as also to evaluate how colostrum intake affects serum and saliva IgG and IgA concentrations. The quality of colostrum samples was evaluated using an optical refractometer before administration to the calves. Saliva and blood samples from 24 calves were obtained at the day of birth (T0) and 2 days after (T2) for determination of serum concentrations of total protein by refractometer, IgG and IgA (both on serum and saliva) by ELISA test. Positive correlations were observed between salivary IgA at T2 and salivary IgG at T2. A significant increase in both IgG and IgA levels in calf serum and saliva was noted. Salivary IgA levels can reflect salivary IgG levels. These findings suggest the potential utility of IgA in monitoring passive immunity transfer, and do not exclude saliva as an alternative, practical, and non-invasive matrix for assessing passive immunity transfer.

PSIV-A-11 Potential of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae frass as a functional ingredient for nursery pigs

Abstract Frass is the leftover material from the production of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), which includes chitin-containing exoskeleton shedding, small, processed larvae, leftover dietary substrate, and larvae excrement. A total of 120 nursery pigs (initial body weight of 6.85 ± 0.10 kg) weaned at 21 d of age were used in a 6-wk study to evaluate the effect of increasing dietary levels of frass on growth performance, diarrhea score, and serological indices. Pigs were randomly assigned within sex and body weight blocks to 1 of 3 dietary treatments using 30 pens (4 pigs/pen; 10 replicates/treatment). Diets were prepared from a common basal and fed in 3 dietary phases of 2 wk each and included: 1) a control diet based primarily on corn and soybean meal; 2) the control with 3% added frass; and 3) the control with 6% added frass. On d 4, 7, and 14, individual fecal samples were obtained using fecal loops and were evaluated on a scale of 1 to 5 representing hard, normal, soft, watery soft, and watery liquid feces, respectively. Blood samples were collected on d 42 from 1 median pig per pen for the analysis of serum chemistry. Data were analyzed using the mixed model procedures as a randomized complete block design using linear and quadratic contrast comparisons to determine the effects of frass. Supplementation of frass linearly increased average daily gain (ADG) from d 7 to 14 (P = 0.044; 347.9, 378.8, and 396.8 g/d for 0, 3, and 6% frass, respectively), and tended to linearly increase ADG during Phase 1 (P = 0.079; 265.1, 284.8, and 298.6 g/d). No differences were observed for final body weight (P ≥ 0.146; 29.90, 31.48, and 30.70 kg for 0, 3, and 6% frass, respectively), and overall ADG, average daily feed intake (ADFI), or gain to feed ratio (G:F). Diarrhea scores increased (P &amp;lt; 0.001) from d 4 (2.96) to d 7 (4.20) and then decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.001) on d 14 (3.69). Inclusion of frass at 6% had a decreased diarrhea score compared with 3% frass on d 7 (P = 0.029), but pigs fed 6% frass had a greater diarrhea score (P = 0.038) than pigs fed the control diet on d 14. However, scores were indicative of diarrhea for all treatments on d 7 and 14. Serum concentrations of total protein, albumin, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyltranspeptidase, urea N, creatinine, glucose, Ca, P, Mg, K, Na, Cl, triglycerides, amylase, cholesterol, and creatine phosphokinase measured on d 42 were not different (P &amp;gt; 0.093) between treatments. All serological analytical results were generally within normal expected ranges. In conclusion, these findings suggest that dietary inclusion of frass may improve growth performance of nursery pigs, especially during the early stages of the nursery period.

Metabolic response of endangered goats fed spineless cactus associated with Tifton-85 hay or Maniçoba hay

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of replacement of Tifton-85 hay by maniçoba hay, in spineless cactus-based diets, on markers of energy, protein, mineral metabolism and serum enzyme activity of Moxotó goats. Sixteen uncastrated male Moxotó breed goats, with 20 months old and initial body weight of 21.7 ± 3.92 kg were used in a randomized blocks design, using the initial weight as the criterion for the formation of blocks, with two treatments and eight replicates per treatment. The experimental treatments consisted of two diets: diets containing Miúda spineless cactus associated with Tifton-85 hay (1) or maniçoba hay (2), with roughage:concentrate ratio of 70:30. Blood samples were collected fortnightly (baseline, 15 days, 30 days and 45 days) during the feedlot period. There was a higher serum concentration of total protein and fructosamine (P &lt; 0.05) in goats that received maniçoba hay. However, there was higher serum gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) enzyme activity in goats that ingested Tifton-85 hay (P &lt; 0.05). Concerning to the profile of blood metabolites in the different fortnightly collections, it was possible to verify a significant effect for urea, fructosamine, GGT enzyme activity, K and Cl levels (P &lt; 0.05). In conclusion, Tifton-85 hay and maniçoba hay combined with spineless cactus does not cause metabolic disorders in feedlot native goats.

Differential responses of rumen and fecal fermentation and microbiota of Liaoning cashmere goats after 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio) butanoic acid isopropyl ester supplementation

The 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio) butanoic acid isopropyl ester (HMBi), a rumen protective methionine, has been extensively studied in dairy cows and beef cattle and has been shown to regulate gastrointestinal microbiota and improve production performance. However, knowledge of the application of HMBi on cashmere goats and the simultaneous study of rumen and hindgut microbiota is still limited. In this study, HMBi supplementation increased the concentration of total serum protein, the production of microbial protein in the rumen and feces, as well as butyrate production in the feces. The results of PCoA and PERMANOVA showed no significant difference between the rumen microbiota, but there was a dramatic difference between the fecal microbiota of the two groups of Cashmere goats after the HMBi supplementation. Specifically, in the rumen, HMBi significantly increased the relative abundance of some fiber-degrading bacteria (such as Fibrobacter) compared with the CON group. In the feces, as well as a similar effect as in the rumen (increasing the relative abundance of some fiber-degrading bacteria, such as Lachnospiraceae FCS020 group and ASV32), HMBi diets also increased the proliferation of butyrate-producing bacteria (including Oscillospiraceae UCG-005 and Christensenellaceae R-7 group). Overall, these results demonstrated that HMBi could regulate the rumen and fecal microbial composition of Liaoning cashmere goats and benefit the host.