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Rice is one of the major cereal crops in several Asian countries. It contains a variety of nutrients and provides valuable health benefits. The antidiabetic activity of rice combined with cereals has not been studied. Therefore, the present study was carried out to determine and compare the effects of extracts from Black rice (BRE), Pathum rice (PTRE), Black rice combined with cereals (BRCE), and Pathum rice combined with cereals (PTRCE) on body weight, blood glucose levels, serum insulin levels and blood chemistry of Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The results revealed that BRCE exhibited the highest activity in reducing fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels and increasing serum insulin levels, and also recovered the lipid profiles, renal function and hepatic function resulting from STZ in the diabetic rats, followed by BRE, PTRCE and PTRE, respectively. Also, BRCE exhibited an activity with similar potential to Glibenclamide. The findings indicate that the rice extracts possess antidiabetic activity which exerts the activity by increasing serum insulin resulting in reduction of blood glucose. Rice combined with cereals provides better antidiabetic activity and could be a source of valuable antidiabetic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorghum is amongst the most drought-tolerant cereals in the driest rain-fed regions of the tropics and its utilisation in sustainable poultry production is limited by presence of phytochemicals. Thus, this study evaluated the effects of malting dietary sorghum on growth performance and haemo-biochemical parameters of Ross 308 broiler chickens. A total of 150 unsexed, 2 weeks-old chicks were evenly distributed into 15 replicated pens which were randomly allocated into three experimental diets and fed in two phase feeding. Three diets were formulated by completely replacing maize grain in commercial grower and finisher diets (CON) with red malted sorghum (RSD) and white malted sorghum (WSD). Broilers fed CON and WSD diets gained more weight compared to those fed RSD in week 3 and 5. The lowest feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed in CON in week 4 and 6. The protein efficiency ratio was the lowest with broilers fed malted sorghum-based diets (MSD) through out the study. Protein intake was the highest in broilers fed WSD in week 3 and 5, but lowest in week 4 and 5 in broilers fed RSD. Diets affected white blood cells basophils, corpuscular (volume and haemoglobin), corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, creatinine, bilirubin, and enzymes (GTP and GOT). Overall, the results from the present study suggest that maize grains can be replaced with malted white sorghum grains in poultry diets, without any adverse effects on the birds’ growth performance and general health status.

Silver arowana Osteoglossum bicirrhosum is a native species of the Amazon basin and presents opportunistic omnivorous habits with ichthyophagous preference. It is subjected to great fishing pressure for consumption and ornamental purposes. Fish farming for this fish is being developed, and one of the main difficulties is food availability for the different stages. This study assessed the effect of feeding with frozen trash fish and commercial feed on the growth and hematological parameters of juvenile silver arowana O. bicirrhosum. A total of 72 juveniles (74.2 ± 0.1 g) were randomly distributed into 12 net cages (6 fish per cage) and fed diets with different protein (P) and lipid (L) levels: frozen trash fish (52P:10L), and commercial tilapia (28P:4L), trout (40P:8L), and arapaima feed (50P:10L) with three replicates twice daily at a daily feeding rate of 6% of biomass for 90 days. At the end of the experiment, growth, hematological parameters, and cost per kilogram of weight gain were evaluated. The results revealed improved growth (P < 0.05) among fish fed with frozen trash fish (172.6 ± 26.9 g) and commercial arapaima feed (174.6 ± 48.8 g), in comparison with those fed commercial trout (120.5 ± 28.9 g) and tilapia feed (106.0 ± 37.1 g). Fish fed with frozen trash fish had lower daily feed intake (0.9 ± 0.1 g) and feed conversion ratio (0.8 ± 0.0), and greater hematocrit (36.2 ± 1.3%), erythrocyte sizes (348.7 ± 37.5 fL), total leukocyte (14.7 ± 0.3 × 103 µL−1), and lymphocyte levels (10.8 ± 1.1 × 103 µL−1) than juveniles that consumed the three commercial diets (P < 0.05). Feeding with frozen trash fish reduced (P < 0.05) the cost per kg of weight (USD 2.5) compared to feeding commercial diets for trout (USD 4.3) and tilapia (USD 4.8). The results show that feeding fresh frozen fish allows for healthy and less costly growth of juvenile silver arowana O. bicirrhosum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding conch shell (Turbinella pyrum) powder (either fresh or calcined) as a marine organic source of calcium (Ca) supplemented in the diet of crossbred calves on voluntary intake, growth performance, and blood biochemistry in growing crossbred Jersey calves. A growth trial of 90 days was conducted on 15 Jersey crossbred female calves (Av. weight, 70.68 ± 2.90 kg; Av. age, 197.73 ± 12.40 days), equally divided into three groups of 5 animals each, i.e., control (T0), treatment 1 (T1), and treatment 2 (T2). All animals were fed total mixed ration (TMR) prepared with a concentrate mixture, chaffed paddy straw, and green fodder at the ratio of 40:30:30 on DM basis. Calves under the control group were fed with TMR containing a standard mineral mixture having dicalcium phosphate (DCP) as a Ca source. Calves under T1 group were supplemented with TMR containing fresh conch shell powder (FCSP), and T2 calves were fed with TMR containing conch shell calcined powder (CSCP) as Ca source. We observed 11.66% increase (p < 0.01) in Ca concentration in CSCP compared to FCSP. The concentration of minerals like Mg, Co, Mn, and Fe was enhanced in CSCP compared to the FCSP. However, the calcination process of fresh conch shell powder (FCSP) reduced the concentration of Cu, and Zn. The Ca/P ratio was estimated as 2.11, 2.06, and 2.10 in T0, T1, and T2 diets, which could be considered ideal for calf ration. Calves under T1, and T2 groups consumed significantly (p < 0.001) greater amounts (g/kg W0.75) of DM and CP compared to T0. However, increased voluntary intake did not translate into increased body weight gain (kg), and feed conversion ratio (kg DMI/kg gain) in T1 and T2 groups in comparison to T0. We observed similar blood glucose, urea, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine transaminase (ALT) concentration among the three treatments. Ca, and P levels in blood plasma were also identical among the three groups. The digestibility of Ca was increased significantly (p = 0.01) in FCSP (T1)- and CSCP (T2)-treated calves compared to control (T0) calves. Similarly, T1 and T2 enhanced P digestibility compared to T0. This first report with short-term experimentation depicted some promising scope for the use of locally available conch shell powder (fresh or calcined form) as a potential source of Ca for feeding to livestock, because these new sources of Ca did not affect intake, digestibility of Ca and P, growth performance, blood chemistry, and liver enzymes negatively in weaned crossbred calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of baker's yeast in poultry performance when fed a standard diet is well known. However, its effect on broiler chickens fed low-nutrient diets is lacking in literature. The aim of this study is to evaluate the performance, haematology, and blood chemistry of broiler chickens fed a reduced energy and protein (REP) diet with or without baker's yeast supplementation. Two hundred (200) Ross 308 broiler chickens were used in a 6-week feeding trial. The birds were divided into four groups having five replicates of ten birds each. Each group was assigned to one experimental diet in a completely randomized design. The four experimental groups include the control group fed a diet having recommended energy and protein without baker's yeast; the REPY0 group fed REP diet without baker's yeast; the REPY0.2 group fed REP diet with 0.20% baker's yeast; and the REPY0.4 group fed REP diet with 0.40% baker's yeast. The REPY0 and REPY0.2 groups had the poorest (p < 0.05) average daily feed intake (ADFI), final live weight (FLW), average daily weight gain (ADWG), and FCR compared to those in the control and the REP0.4 groups. There was no difference in the mortality recorded across the treatment groups. There were no significant (p > 0.05) differences in white blood cell, red blood cell, heamoglobin, lymphocyte, heterophils, H/L ratio, platelets, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular heamoglobin concentration, and mean corpuscular heamoglobin values across the dietary groups. There was a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in packed cell volume (PCV) of birds fed REPY0 and REPY0.2 diets. However, this decrease in values was improved in the REPY0.4 group. There was a decrease (p < 0.05) in the total protein, globulin, and glucose values of birds in the REPY0 and REPY0.2 groups compared to the control group. However, an improvement was noticed when 0.40% baker's yeast was added to the REP diet. It was concluded that the addition of 0.40% baker's yeast could ameliorate the decrease observed in performance as well as PCV, serum total protein, globulin, and glucose values of finisher broiler chickens fed REP diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Copper oxide (Cu2O) nanoparticles (CO NPs) are in extensive use during our everyday life as antimicrobial agent, lubricant, in manufacturing electrodes of lithium ion batteries as well as for photo catalytic degradation of organic pollutants. Due to extensive and diverse use Cu2O NPs, they are likely to accumulate in the environment and to affect the live forms. Present investigation was aimed to report the biocompatibility of CO NPs in Wistar rats in sex specific manner. CO NPs, having average diameter of 14.06 nm, were synthesized by co-precipitation method and scanning electron microscopy and X ray diffraction were used for their characterization. Methods For 14 consecutive days, Wistar rats (6 weeks old) of both sexes were intraperitoneally injected with 10 mg/mL saline/Kg body weight of CO NPs, while the control groups intraperitoneally received saline solution for same duration. Behavioral tests (open field and novel object recognition), complete blood count, selected biomarkers of oxidative stress and Copper concentration in brain and liver were determined in all subjects. Results High mortality rates [male 40% and female 60%] were observed in rats exposed to CO NPs. A sever decrease in body weight was also observed in both male and female rats exposed to CO NPs. Female rats treated with CO NPs spent significantly more time with novel object as compared to control [ P  = 0.05] during second trial of novel object test. CO NPs treated female rats had higher mean corpuscular hemoglobin [ P  < 0.001] levels and Copper concentration in liver [ P  = 0.04] than control. Male rats exposed to CO NPs had significantly higher mean corpuscular volume [ P  = 0.02] and superoxide dismutase [SOD] [ P  = 0.04] in lungs than their control group. All other studied parameters non significantly varied upon comparison between CO NPs treated and untreated rats of both sex. Conclusion In conclusion, we are reporting that intraperitoneal injections of CO NPs for 14 days can disturb complete blood count and biomarkers of oxidative stress in lungs of Wistar rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: The aim of this work is to measure the influence of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) on growth performance, carcass traits, renal and hepatic indices, immunity, lipid profile, antioxidant status, blood minerals, digestive enzymes, and cecal microbiota in broilers. 300 unsexed one-week-old Arbor Acre broiler chicks in total were randomly assigned into 5 treatment groups of 60 chicks per eachwhich were divided into 5 replicates of 12 chicks. The 1st group (G1) was given basal diet (only); the 2nd group (G2), the 3rd group (G3), the 4th group (G4) and the 5th group (G5) were given basal diet treated with CuNPs at a rate of 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/kg diet, respectively. The result revealed a significant improvement (P < 0.01) in performance paramters where the best values of body weight, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio were achieved at 15 mg/kg diet (CuNPs). Moreover, CuNPs supplementation significantly (P < 0.05) improved carcass traits specially carcass, dressing, giblets, and liver percentage, particularly at 15 mg/kg diet which revealed the best results. Furthermore, CuNPs supplementation at all tested levels increased the immune organ's weight (spleen and thymus). Plasma total protein and globulin were increased with CuNPs supplementation at levels 10 to 20 mg/kg diet. CuNPs supplementation (10–20 mg/kg diet) significantly improved liver and renal function by lowering the levels of AST, creatinine and uric acid. Moreover, CuNPs supplementation significantly (P < 0.05) improved lipid profile indicated by decreased the levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol as well as malondialdehyde (MDA). CuNP supplementation significantly improved broiler immunity indicated by increased IgA, IgM, complement (C3) and lysozyme, where CuNPs at 15 and 20 mg/kg diet revealed the best results. CuNPs supplementation increased reduced glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as increased blood minerals (Cu, Fe, P, and Ca). Also, the digestive enzymes of broiler chicks treated with CuNPs significantly increased (P < 0.05), such as lipase, protease, and amylase enzymes. The findings revealed a significant elevation in total bacterial count (TBC) and lactic acid bacteria and significantly decreased total yeast and mold count (TYMC), E. coli, Salmonella and Coliform. In conclusion, CuNPs supplementation significantly improves performance, carcass yield, renal and hepatic indices, lipid profile, immunity, antioxidants, blood minerals, digestive enzymes, and cecal microbiota of broiler chicks.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with the essential oil of Minthostachys mollis on growth, fillet composition, hematological parameters, and disease resistance in juvenile Brycon amazonicus. A total of 120 fish (47.8 ± 7.7 g and 15.2 ± 0.7 cm) were randomly distributed in 12 tanks of 600 L (10 fish per tank) and fed commercial diets (28% protein and 5% lipids) supplemented with different levels of essential oil (0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5%), with three repetitions three times a day for 30 days. After 30 days, growth, hematological parameters, and fillet composition were evaluated. Disease resistance was tested by intraperitoneal injection of Aeromonas hydrophila (1.1 × 1012 CFU/mL) in five fish per tank, and mortality and hematological parameters were evaluated after 10 days. The results showed that the growth and hematological parameters of fish supplemented with 0.5 and 1.0% essential oil did not differ from the control group, but with 1.5% supplementation weight parameters, condition factor (1.27) and the mean corpuscular volume (188.9 fL) decreased, while glucose levels (114.8 mg dL−1) increased. In the fillet composition, there was only an effect on protein, which increased (19.8–19.9%) in fish fed the diets supplemented with essential oil. The bacterial infection did not affect survival, in hematological parameters, only glucose (87.4 mg dL−1) decreased in fish supplemented with 1.5% essential oil. It can be concluded that supplementation with the essential oil of M. mollis can increase the protein content in the fillets of B. amazonicus juveniles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the field of oncology pharmacotherapy has progressed rapidly with the introduction of novel targeted therapies, there are many unintended side effects that require knowledge of laboratory monitoring for appropriate management. The purpose of this article is to summarize the importance of appropriately interpreting laboratory test results, understanding the implications of blood chemistries, and using resources available for monitoring the parameters of novel oncologic therapies. AT A GLANCE * Novel targeted drugs used in cancer treatment can have off-target effects that may affect many organ systems, depending on the drug. * Off-target effects create less predictable side effect profiles compared with cytotoxic chemotherapy. * Nurses can manage treatment side effects through monitoring of laboratory results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the aftermath of a nuclear disaster or accident, survivors will suffer from radiation-induced normal tissue damage. Recovery after radiation exposure is dictated by several factors, one of which is degree of shielding at time of exposure. This study aims to characterize the short and late term changes in kinetics and magnitude of pancytopenia and blood chemistry in a model of heterogeneous radiation exposure, or partial body irradiation (PBI), compared to whole body irradiation (WBI). Male C57BL/6 mice, 8-10 weeks of age, were WBI at 6 different doses (6, 6.1. 6.15, 6.2, 6.5, and 7.5 Gy) to establish the LD50. To determine the effect of shielding on blood cell counts and chemistry, animals were either WBI at 6 Gy (LD2230) or 6 Gy PBI with one leg shielding (LD030). Complete blood counts and chemistry were measured at 1, 5-, 10-, 20-, 30- and 120-days post-irradiation. Irradiated animals had significant depletion of white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets up to 10 days post-irradiation. Separation between PBI and WBI were observed at 10- and 20-days post-irradiation at which point PBI animals showed sign of recovery while overall cell count remains depleted in WBI animals up to 30 days post-irradiation. In addition, significant changes were found in parameters indicative of hematopoietic injury including hemoglobin count, hematocrit count and white blood cell population. Significant changes were observed in kidney function with changes to blood urea nitrogen and calcium concentration at 5-days post-irradiation. At 10-days post-irradiation. liver function changes differentiated WBI from PBI animals. Long-term, irradiated animal's chemistry values and many blood counts were not significantly different from Sham. In conclusion, partial shielding ensured complete survival and demonstrated a different recovery kinetics of blood and chemistry parameters after irradiation compared to survivors of whole body irradiation and no single hemopoietic parameter was able to consistently differentiate irradiated from Sham animals. This seems to indicate that there is no single robust hemopoietic parameter to differentiate those exposed from those who were not due to the inherent variability in individual responses. Furthermore, there were no significant long-term effects on these blood parameters between survivors of WBI and PBI except that shielding accelerated recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was conducted to explore the productive performance and health status of lactating buffaloes fed diets supplemented with probiotic and/or fibrolytic enzymes. Forty multiparous lactating Egyptian buffaloes (body weight 451 ± 8.5 kg) were equally assigned to four experimental groups: (1) the first group fed control diet, (2) second experimental group fed control diet plus 4 g of probiotic/kg dry matter (DM) (probiotic), (3) third experimental group fed control diet plus 4 g of fibrolytic enzymes/kg DM (enzymes) and (4) fourth experimental group fed control diet plus 2 g of probiotic + 2 g fibrolytic enzymes/kg DM (Mix), The experiment was extended for 63 days. Nutrients digestibility was estimated, daily milk yield was recorded and milk samples were analyzed for total solids, fat protein, lactose and ash. Blood serum samples were analyzed for glucose, total protein, albumin, urea‐N, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and cholesterol concentrations. Results showed that adding probiotic and/or fibrolytic enzymes improved nutrients digestibility (p < 0.05). The probiotic, enzymes and mix groups did not affect (p > 0.05) concentrations of serum total protein, albumin (A), globulin (G), albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio and urea‐N concentrations. An improvement in daily milk yield (p < 0.0001) and energy‐corrected milk (p = 0.0146) were observed with the probiotic and mix groups compared with the control. In conclusion, this study suggests that supplementing lactating buffaloes' diets with probiotic alone or in combination with fibrolytic enzymes would improve their productive performance without adversely impacting their health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Hematologic parameters and the levels of certain plasma metabolites offer an objective measure, and real-time insight into the physiological status of an animal. We hypothesized that blood chemistry analysis in brooding poults varies with even minor differences of temperature and can affect poult performance. A total of 2,240 one-day-old turkey hens were assigned randomly to 1 of 4 treatments [Control (C) = 32C and 60%RH; cold stress (CS) = 29C and 60%RH; heat stress (HS) = 35C and 60%RH; and heat stress plus humidity (HHS) = 35C and 75%RH]. In all the treatments, the temperatures were lowered 2°C the first week, and 1.5°C each week thereafter. The relative humidity was maintained constant, as much as possible, throughout the 35 d duration of the experiment. Brooding treatment affected pH, partial carbon dioxide (pCO2), potassium (K), and sodium (Na). The treatments HS and HHS had higher pH and K, and lower pCO2 and K in the blood. These changes suggest an attempt by the poults to cool down by increased water intake and panting. Furthermore, by the end of the experiment more birds in these 2 treatment groups had distended crops, possible to increased water intake also. The increase of ketone in the plasma, at 3 d of age, of poults from the 2 warmest brooding conditions (HS and HHS) suggests that these birds were consuming less feed and using more fat as its main fuel source. Furthermore, at 28 d of age significantly more poults from HS and HHS had reduced ventricular contractility of their hearts. However, no significant differences in the concentration of creatinine kinase (CK) or cardiac troponin I (cTnI) were found between treatments. In conclusion, this research revealed that blood parameters were influenced by minor temperature and humidity changes. Warmer brooding temperatures resulted in a higher incidence of pendulous crop. Overall, there were no significant differences in the estimated BW between the treatments. Further research is needed to optimize the number of samples needed and the time of sampling to optimize brooding conditions. We also need to investigate blood parameters that can reveal reduced contractility of the heart and if the reduced myocardial contractility from birds kept at a higher temperature and relative humidity predisposes them to dilated cardiomyopathy or other metabolic diseases.

This report describes the safe and e ective handling under anesthesia, blood collection and main clinical pathology values determination for three adult Spotted Ratfish (Hydrolagus colliei) (two males and one female) successfully maintained under human care for more than 20 years. The anesthetic MS- 222 diluted in tamponed salt water at 50 ppm provided deep narcosis with mean induction and recovery times of 5 and 20min, allowing safe handling and blood collection in the three animals sampled. Major leukocyte types were similar to other teleost and elasmobranch species, identifying lymphocytes as the predominant leukocyte (75.5%), followed by the fine eosinophilic granulocytes (10.25%), the coarse eosinophilic granulocytes (9.75%), and a small percentage ofmonocytes (5.50%). Plasma biochemistry values in this species were like those seen in elasmobranchs, with the highest levels of blood urea nitrogen described in any Chondrichthyes (mean 679.7 mmol/l). Plasma protein electrophoresis analysis in the Spotted Ratfish showed five consistent fractions, like those previously described in other fish species, with a negligible quantity of proteins migrating in the region equivalent to albumin, and with fraction 4 (mean 53.20%) as the predominant fraction. Despite the limitations imposed by the small sample size and the challenging access to the studied species under human care, this study will shed light on and enhance clinical knowledge regarding Ratfish handling, anesthesia, blood collection, and analysis. It aims to deliver a comprehensive clinical pathology description, presenting valuable data for professionals engaged in the care and management of Chimaerans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total 240 1-day-old straight-run (Ross-308) broilers were used to investigate the effect of fruit waste (FW) on live performance and blood parameters of Broilers for 56 days. Four experimental diets comprising 3 replicates with 20 birds each were tested with using complete randomized method consisting Diet 1 (D1) (treatment 1) with 100% basal feed (BF) and 0% fruit waste (FW), diet 2 (D2) (75 BF + 25% FW), diet 3 (D3) (50% BF + 50% FW) and diet 4 (D4) (25% BF + 75% FW). Non-significant results (p>0.05) were found in feed intake and body weight gain and carcass characteristics in all treatment groups while feed conversion ratio (FCR) were resulted significantly difference (p<0.05) in D2 (1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th week), D3 (1st and 3rd week) and D4 (1st, 2nd, 4th and 5th week). In case of organs weight except gizzard, all other organs (liver, heart, intestine, pancreas, lungs, spleen and kidney) resulted significantly difference (p<0.05) and affected with FW supplementation. Broiler fed with 25% and 50% FW affected positively (p<0.05) to lymphocytes, granulocytes, red blood cells, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean platelet volume while D3 also resulted positively in results of mid-range absolute count. While birds fed D4 (75% FW) resulted significant difference (p<0.05) in mean platelet volume. Overall, D2 and D3 that offered with 25% and 50% FW replacement showed better results than the control treatments with basal feed. It is suggested that as a supplements, FW can be added in feed as medicinal effects of fruit wastes by reducing the antibiotic usage in broilers and decreased the environmental pollution and for functional food ingredients, natural antioxidants, antimicrobial compounds and substantially reduce the amount of waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of C. schoenanthus essential oil (CSEO) on the immune system, antioxidant balance, and histological changes in the kidney and spleen of female BALB/C mice. The chemical composition of CSEO was analyzed using GC-MS. Twenty-nine compounds were identified, representing 99.04% of the total detected. The main components were Piperitone (47.93%), Elemol (11.91%), 2-Carene (10.69%), β-eudesmol (7.67%), α-eudesmol (5.12%), and γ-eudesmol (4.24%). For bioassay, the mice were divided into three groups: control, 0.5% CSEO (G1), and 1% CSEO (G2). The effects of CSEO on various markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), urea, creatinine, and cytokines (IL-4, TNF-α, and TGF-β1), were evaluated. Additionally, kidney and spleen histopathological examinations were conducted. The treatment groups showed a significant increase in IL-4, TNF-α, and TGF-β1 levels compared to the control group, except for G1, which showed a non-significant decrease in TGF-β1 levels. Group 2 exhibited a significant increase in MDA levels compared to the control group, while group 1 had a nonsignificant increase. Both treatments showed a significant increase in GSH levels, while SOD and CAT levels showed a non-significant increase in G2 and a non-significant decrease in G1. Urea levels showed a non-significant increase, while creatinine levels were significantly decreased in G2 and non-significantly decreased in G1 compared to the control group. The histopathological examinations revealed congested red pulp with activated hematopoiesis and focal fibrosis in spleen sections of both G1 and G2. The study suggests that medicinal herbs such as CSEO need to be used with caution, and their effects should be evaluated carefully, especially in terms of dose-dependent effects. The results indicate that high doses of CSEO may increase the levels of some cytokines and antioxidants and have harmful effects on kidney architecture, congested red pulp, and fibrosis with increased hematopoiesis. Therefore, the random use of medicinal herbs may have harmful effects and needs to be carefully controlled to ensure safe use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The goal of the current study was to determine how selenium-supplemented diets affected the growth performance, carcass traits, and blood biochemistry of Rhode Island Red (RIR) chickens. Organic and inorganic selenium (SE) was fed to the birds at 0.30ppm, whereas the control diet was not supplemented with selenium in either organic or inorganic form. A total of 225 day-old RIR chicks were indiscriminately distributed in three groups according to the experimental diets, in a completely randomized design. Each treatment group was repeated 5 times (replicates), and each replicate had 15 birds. Parameters of growth performance, carcass characteristics, and blood biochemistry were assessed. Birds fed an inorganic selenium-supplemented diet had higher feed intake than those fed an organic selenium-supplemented diet or the control diet, whereas birds fed an organic selenium-supplemented diet had higher body weight gains and better feed conversion ratios. Birds fed organic SE in the diet showed higher breast and thigh weight than those receiving inorganic Se, whereas dressing percentage, drumstick yield, and weights of liver, gizzard, heart, and wing were not significantly different across treatments. The organic Se group showed higher values for total protein and globulin in the blood relative to those fed inorganic Se and the control diet. Similarly, organic Se fed birds showed higher blood Se concentration than the other two groups. However, no significant differences in albumin, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and uric acid were observed among the diets. These results lead to the conclusion that organic Se may be utilized in diets to improve the poor performance of RIR chicken.

Abstract A 12‐week growth experiment was conducted to evaluate the suitability of Azolla cristata as a fish meal (FM) substitute in diets for Cyprinus carpio var. communis fingerlings. Six iso‐nitrogenous and isocaloric (16.17 kJ/g GE) diets were formulated to contain 42% crude protein and each treatment had three replicates. The mean initial weight of the fish was 3.4 ± 0.2 g. Graded levels of A. cristata 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50% in the diets were fed to the fish in triplicate groups, respectively. No significant (p > 0.05) differences in growth performance of fish‐fed diets containing 10% and control (0%) inclusion levels were seen. However, further increase in Azolla meal (AM) supplementation resulted in gradual decline in growth performance of fish in terms of live weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, and protein efficiency ratio. All hematological parameters had a linear declining trend as the proportion of AM in diet was increased. Protein content of fish was found significantly (p

ABSTRACT: The present study aimed to investigate the impact of various concentrations of ginger and cinnamon oils as antibiotic substitutes on some blood biochemical parameters, antioxidant capacity, and histopathological profile of the liver and gut of growing Japanese. A total of 900 Japanese quails were randomly allotted into 6 treatment groups. Each group had 5 replicates (30 chicks each). The first group received a basal diet and served as the control, while the second received a basal diet plus 0.5 g of colistin antibiotic/kg diet. The third and fourth groups were supplemented with 0.5 mL and 1.0 mL of ginger oil (GO)/kg diet, respectively. While the fifth and sixth groups received basal diet with 0.5 and 1.0 mL of cinnamon oil (CO)/kg diet, respectively. Results showed that adding herbal oils significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and urea levels compared to control and colistin groups. Various levels of GO and CO significantly (P < 0.05) reduced cholesterol levels compared to control birds. Compared to the control and antibiotic groups, Japanese quails supplemented with various levels of herbal oils (GO and CO) had more extraordinarily significant (P < 0.05) values for total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and glutathione reductase (GSR). Regarding histopathologic examination, the jejunum displayed a nearly empty lumen, a few fusions, and mild goblet cell metaplasia. On the other hand, the duodenum looked tall and had a few fusions of villi and remnants of removal in its lumina. It could be concluded that cinnamon and GO improved birds’ blood biochemical parameters, electorate oxidative stress, and enhanced intestinal and hepatic histology of the treated quails. Also, the levels of 0.5 mL CO and 0.5 mL GO may be an acceptable substitute for antibiotics (colistin) in the diets of growing Japanese quail.

This report describes the safe and effective handling under anesthesia, blood collection and main clinical pathology values determination for three adult Spotted Ratfish (Hydrolagus colliei) (two males and one female) successfully maintained under human care for more than 20 years. The anesthetic MS-222 diluted in tamponed salt water at 50 ppm provided deep narcosis with mean induction and recovery times of 5 and 20 min, allowing safe handling and blood collection in the three animals sampled. Major leukocyte types were similar to other teleost and elasmobranch species, identifying lymphocytes as the predominant leukocyte (75.5%), followed by the fine eosinophilic granulocytes (10.25%), the coarse eosinophilic granulocytes (9.75%), and a small percentage of monocytes (5.50%). Plasma biochemistry values in this species were like those seen in elasmobranchs, with the highest levels of blood urea nitrogen described in any Chondrichthyes (mean 679.7 mmol/l). Plasma protein electrophoresis analysis in the Spotted Ratfish showed five consistent fractions, like those previously described in other fish species, with a negligible quantity of proteins migrating in the region equivalent to albumin, and with fraction 4 (mean 53.20%) as the predominant fraction. Despite the limitations imposed by the small sample size and the challenging access to the studied species under human care, this study will shed light on and enhance clinical knowledge regarding Ratfish handling, anesthesia, blood collection, and analysis. It aims to deliver a comprehensive clinical pathology description, presenting valuable data for professionals engaged in the care and management of Chimaerans.

A 12‐week growth experiment was conducted to evaluate the suitability of Azolla cristata as a fish meal (FM) substitute in diets for Cyprinus carpio var. communis fingerlings. Six iso‐nitrogenous and isocaloric (16.17 kJ/g GE) diets were formulated to contain 42% crude protein and each treatment had three replicates. The mean initial weight of the fish was 3.4 ± 0.2 g. Graded levels of A. cristata 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50% in the diets were fed to the fish in triplicate groups, respectively. No significant (p > 0.05) differences in growth performance of fish‐fed diets containing 10% and control (0%) inclusion levels were seen. However, further increase in Azolla meal (AM) supplementation resulted in gradual decline in growth performance of fish in terms of live weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, and protein efficiency ratio. All hematological parameters had a linear declining trend as the proportion of AM in diet was increased. Protein content of fish was found significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in fish‐fed higher inclusion of AM. Serum biochemical parameters were also noted to reduce with increasing inclusion of AM, except for glucose, cholesterol, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). On the basis of results obtained in the present study, it is recommended that 10% Azolla meal can be included in the practical diets for C. carpio var. communis fingerlings as partial replacement for fishmeal without affecting their growth, feed efficiency, and fish quality for the intensive culture of this fish species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematology and blood chemistry tests constitute an easy-to-apply veterinary tool that evaluates an organism's systemic functioning and disease process by comparing the level of specific analytes against species norms. Such analyses help monitor marine mammals' health and nutritional status. Although reference values have been published for a few manatee populations, there are none for Antillean manatees (Trichechus manatus manatus) in Colombia. We aim to establish the reference values for hematology and serum chemistries for these manatees and determine if there are variations between individuals of different age groups and sex. Thus, we obtained whole blood and serum samples from 45 rehabilitated manatees from Colombia between 1992 and 2021. Complete Blood Count and Comprehensive Metabolic Panel values were calculated, and differences between age groups and sex were determined. Results were compared with published reference intervals of other Antillean manatee populations, Florida manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris), and Amazonian manatees (Trichechus inunguis) from Brazil. We determined the reference intervals of hematology and serum chemistry for manatees in Colombia for different age and sex categories. No relevant clinical variations were found in hematological parameters due to sex. Marked differences were found between age groups, mainly among young animals with an expected faster metabolism. There were significant variations between hematological and blood chemistry values when the Colombian manatees were compared to manatees from Puerto Rico and Amazonian manatees from Brazil. Such variations are likely influenced by evolutionary history and environmental factors associated with differences in habitat salinity and diet. We recommend that future studies correlate these blood tests with specific panels. We further recommend conducting wild manatee health assessments as this information will yield essential data for species management schemes needed due to the multiple anthropogenic and environmental threats that manatees face today which put the Colombian manatee's health and ultimate survival at risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dormitator latifrons is an amphidromous fish widely distributed in the Pacific slope from California to Peru. Although this species has a high potential for aquaculture, there is little information about the blood parameters of sex and growth stage. Eighty specimens of D. latifrons (40 males and 40 females in two growth stages) were used. They were placed in 1700 L tanks, one for each group, and fed with a feed for Tilapia diet with 35% protein and 8% fat. At the end of 30 days, blood samples were collected. Some blood parameters were determined (hematocrit, glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin, and A/G), and hematocrit percentage, glucose, albumins, and globulins presented significant differences between stages (P < 0.05). Total proteins showed differences only between males and females (P < 0.05). The hematocrit registered significant differences between stage and sex (P < 0.05). Differences between stages and sex may be related to a higher growth rate, differences in feed conversion, an increase in energy expenditure, and variations in hormonal levels. This study is the first to determine some blood parameters of D. latifrons under experimental aquaculture conditions concerning sex and growth stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The effects of season, location, species, and sex on body weight and a comprehensive array of blood chemistry and hematology analytes were compared for free-ranging western (Aechmophorus occidentalis) and Clark's (Aechmophorus clarkii) grebes. Birds (n = 56) were collected from Puget Sound, WA, and Monterey Bay and San Francisco Bay, CA, from February 2007 to March 2011. The data supported generalization of observed ranges for most analytes across Aechmophorus grebe metapopulations wintering on the Pacific coast. Notable seasonal and location effects were observed for packed cell volume (winter 6% greater than fall; winter California [CA] 5% greater than Washington [WA]), total white blood cell count (CA 3.57 × 103 cells/µL greater than WA), heterophils (WA 10% greater than CA), lymphocytes (winter 19% greater than fall), heterophil to lymphocyte ratio (fall 5.7 greater than winter), basophils (CA greater than WA), plasma protein (WA about 10 g/L [1.0 g/dL] greater than CA), plasma protein to fibrinogen ratio (winter about 15 greater than fall), potassium (CA 2 mmol/L greater than WA), and liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase: WA greater than CA). Within California, season had a greater effect on body mass than sex (mean winter weights about 200 g greater than fall), whereas within a season, males weighed only about 80 g more than females, on average. These data give biologists and veterinarians quantitative reference values to better assess health at the individual and metapopulation level.

Objective: This study aimed to validate the analytical precision of the Accutrend® Plus portable electronic equipment (PE) to determine glucose (GLU), total cholesterol (TC), and triglycerides (TG) in rats and dogs using the conventional laboratory method (CM) as a reference. Materials and Methods: To determine the analytical accuracy of the Accutrend® Plus in the mea¬surement of GLU, CT, and TG. The EP-9-A2 guide (Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute), Bland-Altman graphical analysis, and Lin's correlation coefficient of concordance (CCC) were implemented. Results: The average differences (p > 0.05) between PE and CM for GLU, TC, and TG were 2.21, 1.20, and 0.72 mg·dl−1, respectively, in rats and 1.06, 4.30, and 2.41 mg·dl−1, respectively, in dogs (p > 0.05). Both methods showed a linear relationship with Pearson's correlation coefficients > 0.96 and R2 > 0.97 for the three biochemical indicators evaluated in both species. The GLU, TC, and TG values obtained by the PE were substantial, as evident from Lin's CCC > 0.96. Conclusion: The PE Accutrend® Plus is potent for monitoring GLU, TC, and TG in rats and dogs because of its precision and ability to facilitate measurement by reducing stress in animals during sampling. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2023; 10(1.000): 57-63]

Dormitator latifrons, es una especie nativa eurihalina, perteneciente a la familia Eleotridae que se encuentra distribuido desde el sur de California hasta Perú. Este estudio de investigación es una contribución para evaluar el efecto de diferentes concentraciones de salinidad (0, 10, 20 y 33 UPS) en el crecimiento, su- pervivencia, hematología y química sanguínea. Los resultados muestran diferencia estadística (P < 0.05) en el tratamiento a 10 UPS en peso promedio por individuo (91.5 ± 7.5 g), biomasa final (2286.3 ± 188.3 g) y ganancia en peso (55.5 ± 5.9 g). En los parámetros hematológicos se encontraron diferencias estadísticas (P < 0.05) en el recuento total de eritrocitos (× 106), en el tratamiento a 20 UPS se presentó el mayor valor (4.33 ± 0.49) y en el tratamiento a 0 UPS el menor valor (2.77 ± 0.13), la supervivencia fue mayor al 90.7% en todos los tratamientos. Finalmente, se puede concluir que el tratamiento a 10 UPS generó mayor influencia en el peso (g) de juveniles de Dormitator latifrons, asimismo las tasas de crecimiento GP y EA incrementaron proporcionalmente en el tratamiento a 10 UPS. Por lo cual se considera esta especie con potencial acuícola, los resultados, muestran que la salinidad influye en el crecimiento de los organismos a pesar de que Dormitator latifrons es un organismo eurihalino. Se observó que el mayor crecimiento se presentó a una salinidad de 10 UPS.

Abstract A little-studied characteristic of the Mexican native fish Dormitator latifrons is the effect that the color of the bottom or lining of ponds or tubs can have on their growth and blood parameters under controlled conditions. After a quarantine period in prophylactic treatment, an initial assay was performed. The organisms were grouped into four treatments (white, yellow, blue, and black) in triplicate, with 30 individuals with an average weight of 34.7± 2.5 g and average size of 12.5 ± 1.5 cm per tank. The trial lasted 60 days, after which a final biometry to all specimens and blood extractions to six random organisms per tank were performed. The following hematological and blood chemistry parameters were evaluated: erythrocytes, cell counts, and differential counts, as well as glucose, albumin, a/g ratio, and total proteins. Final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate presented statistical differences between treatments (p0.05). The growth results suggest that dark pond bottoms promote the adaptation of Dormitator latifrons by allowing it to avoid detection by predators through the adoption of a cryptic coloration. However, the species shows a great capacity for crypsis, being able to change its pigmentation to adapt to different bottom colors.

ABSTRACT: Selenium is one of the necessary micronutrients needed for enhanced gut microbiota and oxidative stress of poultry, so it improves their performance. In this study, Bacillus subtilus DA20 isolate that identified at the gene level by PCR was employed to produce eco-friendly selenium nanoparticles (BSeNPs) and investigate their effects on growth performance, carcass characteristics, blood parameters, and gut microbiota of Indian River (IR) broiler chickens. The obtained selenium nanoparticles were spherical with size of 56 nm and net negative charge of −22.36 mV; the BSeNPs were surrounded with active compounds, which besides the tiny size attributed to antioxidant and antibacterial activity. Forty hundred and eighty unsexed IR broilers, 1-day old, were reared for 35 d. The chicks were weighed separately and distributed into 3 treatment groups; each group contained 4 replicates (40 birds per replicate). Chicks in the first, second, third, fourth groups were fed control diets supplemented with 0, 20, 40, and 60 µg/kg of BSeNPs, respectively; but the fifth group was fed 300 µg/kg bulk selenium. Dietary supplementation with BSeNPs (40 µg/kg diet) significantly increased the body weight of chicks and decreased the feed conversion ratio. Additionally, dietary BSeNPs significantly (P = 0.046) lowered the fat content in broiler by 24% compared to the control; on the other hand, the breast muscle significantly increased (P = 0.035) by 19%. The content of total bacterial count (TBC), total yeast mold count (TYMC), E. coli, and Salmonella counts significantly was decreased with BSeNPs and Se compared to the control. However, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) was significantly increased with BSeNPs (60 μg/kg) when compared to control, showing the beneficial effects of BSeNPs in reducing pathogens and enhancing the beneficial bacteria, which reflects on the broiler performance.

Contextualization: animal production systems in Colombia have been characterized by the poor availability and quality of forage, in areas such as the foothills of the plains, due to the edaphological and climatic conditions of these zones. Knowledge gap: the basis of sheep feeding is grass, although multiple factors interfere in the use and quality of nutrients. This is why it is necessary to investigate these matters and determine which are the adequate supplements to fulfill the requirements of the animal, and therefore improve their productive performance. Purpose: to analyze the nutritional contribution of a supplement to the diet of grazing sheep fed with Brachiaria spp, evaluating the productive performance and blood biochemistry of them. Methodology: the design was completely randomized with the Tukey comparison test. A total of 12 sheep were used, crossbreeds between creole and Pelibuey, with an average weight of 20.05 ± 1.0 kg. The animals were fed using grass with Brachiaria spp. and a supplementation with 100 g of commercial balanced food. The treatments were: T1: 600 g of corn silage [EMA], T2: 200 g EMA and 100 g palm kernel, T3: 400 g EMA and 100 g of wheat bran, and T4: 400 g EMA + 200 g of Tithonia diversifolia silage. The chemical quality of the food supplied and the soil where the sheep grazed were analyzed. The variables evaluated were weight gain, feed intake, feed efficiency and conversion, protein efficiency ratio and blood biochemistry. Results and conclusions: in T2, the lowest [P < 0.05] daily weight gain and final weight was obtained related to T1 [234.4 and 33.6 Vs 263.6 g and 36.3 kg respectively] as well as the lowest consumption of dry matter [1678.1 Vs 1815.8 g respectively]). The other treatments had a similar behavior [P > 0.05] in the total consumption of dry matter and protein. Serum concentrations of protein, albumin, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and calcium were similar [P > 0.05] before and after treatments, while the serum magnesium concentration after supplementation was higher [P < 0.05] in T4 related to T1 and T2. Supplements such as EMA, palm kernel, wheat bran and buttercup silage have a positive effect on sheep fed with grass and Brachiaria spp. in terms of dry matter intake, weight gain and feed conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of replacing Glycine max with processed Lemna paucicostata on haematological parameters and enzyme activity of Oreochromis niloticus. The processing methods employed were blanching and sun-drying. Nine diets (D1-D9) were formulated using the least cost feed formulation software. Soybean meal was replaced by blanched and sun-dried L. paucicostata at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% each. 27 nets measuring 1m² each were used in outdoor concrete ponds of 5m x 3.5m (l × b) and depth of 1.5m each. Ten fingerlings of O. niloticus were stocked per Hapa and fed three times daily at 5% body weight. The fish fed 75% blanched L. paucicostata obtained the best concentration of the packed cell volume (32.01%) in the blood while a poor concentration of 27.01% was observed in the fish fed 100% blanched L. paucicostata. The fish fed 75% blanched L. paucicostata and 50% blanched L. paucicostata gave higher total enzyme activities of 4,675.13(TU) and 4,648.06(TU), respectively. While the fish fed 100% blanched L. paucicostata gave the lowest value of 3,558.33(TU). The digestive enzyme activities were observed to be the main factors that helped the experimental fish to digest the blanched and sun-dried Lemna paucicostata efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims were to test the effects of partial or total replacement of dietary fish oil (FO) by palm oil (PO) on growth, antioxidant capacity, lysozyme activity, muscle fatty acid composition, and fillet quality of rohu (Labeo rohita) fingerlings. The rohu fingerlings (3.25 ± 0.13 g) were stocked in 18 circular (water volume 55 L) polyvinyl tanks in triplicate groups (30 fish per tank). Six iso-proteic (400 g/kg) and iso-lipidic (97 g/kg) purified diets were formulated in which FO was replaced by 0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% PO (0 PO, 20 PO, 40 PO, 60 PO, 80 PO, and 100 PO). The diets were fed to the fish for 8 weeks, with meals being given at 8:00, 12:00, and 16:00 h. There were no significant (P > 0.05) treatment effects on growth (19.32–22.58 g gain/fish), feed conversion ratio (1.32–1.68), and protein efficiency ratio (1.48–1.89). However, protein retention efficiency was highest (33.25–34.99%) in fish fed the 0 PO and 60 PO diets, and lipid retention efficiency was highest (53.09%) in the fish fed the 100 PO diet. Muscle eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels and n-3/n-6 ratio were highest in fish fed the 100% FO diet and decreased as increasing proportions of FO were replaced by PO. Serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and lysozyme activity did not change significantly (P > 0.05) up to 60% replacement of FO with PO. Further replacement of FO with PO (80 PO and 100 PO) resulted in decreased serum antioxidant capacity and lysozyme activity. Although muscle atherogenicity and thrombogenicity indices did not change significantly (P > 0.05) among treatments, the highest hypocholesterolaemic-to-hypercholesterolaemic (H/H) ratio and fillet lipid quality (FLQ) were found in fish receiving the 0 PO (with 100% FO and no PO). H/H and FLQ values did not differ significantly up to 60% replacement of FO with PO but decreased upon further replacement of FO with PO. FO can be replaced by PO to a level of 60% without hampering the growth and fillet quality of fingerling rohu provided with such diets for a period of a few weeks, but the long-term effects of FO replacement remain to be studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A popular species in the pet trade, and therefore in the illegal wildlife trade, the diamond-backed terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin terrapin, population has seen significant declines. Associated with the illegal wildlife trade, occasions arise in which terrapins are confiscated, and no standard operating procedures exist for repatriation into the wild. To develop such procedures, an understanding of the pathogens circulating in the wild diamond-backed terrapin population in New Jersey is needed. We sampled 30 wild female diamond-backed terrapins for herpesvirus, Mycoplasmopsis, ranavirus, and intestinal and blood parasites and performed white blood cell counts and differentials and evaluated biochemistry values. Terrapins had an average age of 10 yr (8–15 yr), and 70% were gravid at the time of sampling. Thirty-three percent of the sampled northern diamond-backed terrapins were positive for Mycoplasmopsis sp., and all were negative for ranavirus and herpesviruses. Occasional blood parasites were found, and few intestinal parasites were noted. There was no significant difference between gravid status and any of the blood parameters (P<0.05). Blood chemistry values appeared to vary according to feeding activity; no differences were noted in the values in relation to gravid status. Four terrapins had heterophil to lymphocyte (H:L) ratios above 4.5, significantly higher than the other terrapins sampled, which may indicate inflammation. Two of the four had Mycoplasmopsis, one sample was contaminated by other bacteria and was discarded, and one was negative. No significant difference was found between Mycoplasmopsis infection status and H:L ratio (P=0.926). Our findings, though conducted on a small number of female terrapins at a specific time point, provide data on the pathogens that may be circulating in this population, adding to the current body of knowledge and helping to guide decision making for the reintroduction of confiscated diamond-backed terrapins into New Jersey's wild population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research is to develop and test a new approach to prevent clostridial disease in cattle, based on the use of a new compound biologically active feed additive (BFA). Some properties of the separate components of BFA are characterized. The research showed that a strain of the bacterium Bacillus amyloliquefaciens159 has an expressed antagonism to toxin-producing strains of C. perfringens. When using the test strains of C. perfringens from the ATCC collection (13,124 as type A, 10,543 as type C, 12,916 as type F), the anticlostridial activity of the tested strains varied, with size range of 14.0 ± 0.95–15.0 ± 1.28 mm of delayed growth zones. The bactericidal properties of lauric acid and the sorption properties of diatomaceous earth, included in BFA, were confirmed. The experiment was conducted on Holstein cows at the beginning of lactation (control, C (n = 15) vs. experimental E48 (n = 15), E80 (n = 15) and E112 (n = 15), 48, 80 and 112 g/head/day BFA, respectively. All cows were vaccinated with "Coglavax" (vaccine against bovine and sheep clostridial disease, Ceva-Phylaxia VeterinaryBiologicals, Hungary), reinjected two weeks before the experiment. At the end of the experiment (3.5 months after the vaccination and 3 months after the start of BFA feeding according to the scheme of the experiment), the immune response in the control and Group E48 to C. perfringens β-toxin remained at the initial level, while the response in Group E80 and Group E112 became higher under the influence of BFA feeding. Cows fed BFA saw a guaranteed improvement in non-specific resistance. The increase in serum lysozyme concentration in cows of Groups E was 1.01–2.91 mkg/mL vs. control (p < 0.001). TP, GLB, ALB/GLB vs. Groups C and E48 (p < 0.001); this stabilized and normalized while feeding Group E80 and E112 animals with BFA. They also had improved nitrogen, fat, mineral metabolism, as indicated by significant increase in ALB (p < 0.05), UREA (p < 0.01), CHOL (p < 0.01), and CHL (p < 0.01) vs. Groups C and E48. Consumption of BFA increased the amount of anti-oxidants in the blood (highest TAWSA values in Group E80 14.45 mg/g, p = 0.002). Serum TBA–AP/ CP ratio was directly related to TBA–AP (r = 0.87, p < 0.001), and decreased in Group E80. The milk productivity increased under the action of BFA; the average daily milk yield of the cows from the experimental groups for the period of the experiment (d0–d98) was 1.24–1.66 kg higher than that of the control. At the same time, Group E112 cows had a significant increase in milk yield (by 5.1%, p = 0.03 vs. Control). Thus, feeding BFA to dairy cows was found to improve resistance, prevent toxicoses and increase milk production of cattle, which can serve as an additional strategy for bioprotection of cattle against infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present experiment was conducted to compare the effect of Acacia nilotica bark extract and antibiotic on different biological parameters in broilers challenged with E. coli. Five hundred 2-week-old broiler chicks were divided into five treatments (Cont, NC, PC, AN-BE3, and AN-BE5) with ten replicates per treatment (10 chicks per replicate), and the experiment was extended over 2 weeks. All chicks, except that of Cont were challenged with E. coli (107 CFU/bird). Cont: basal diet only; NC: challenged with E. coli; PC: NC + Zinc Bacitracin 50 mg/kg diet; AN-BE3: NC + A. nilotica bark extract supplementation 0.3%; AN-BE5: NC + A. nilotica bark extract supplementation 0.5%. At the end of the experiment, one bird per replicate was selected randomly and slaughtered for sampling regarding blood biochemistry, intestinal morphology and cecal digesta. Weight gains in Cont, PC, and AN-BE5 were statistically similar but higher than that of NC. Similarly, feed conversion ratios in Cont, PC, and AN-BE5 were statistically similar but better than that of NC. The highest (p < 0.05) levels of blood glucose was observed in Cont (278.06 mg/dL) and the lowest in AN-BE5 (225.70 mg/dL). Concentrations of ALT and AST were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in PC and A. nilotica bark extract supplemented groups than the other groups. Antioxidant status of birds in PC and A. nilotica bark extract supplemented groups was comparable and better than those of NC and Cont treatments. Villus heights in PC (1063.25 µm) and AN-BE5 (1061.63 µm) were similar but higher than those of Cont (1026.50 µm) and NC (1014.75 µm). In addition, counts of Coliform and C. perfringens were significantly reduced in PC and A. nilotica bark extract supplemented groups. A. nilotica bark extract could be an alternative to antibiotics in boilers challenged with E. coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to validate the analytical precision of the Accutrend® Plus portable electronic equipment (PE) to determine glucose (GLU), total cholesterol (TC), and triglycerides (TG) in rats and dogs using the conventional laboratory method (CM) as a reference. Materials and Methods: To determine the analytical accuracy of the Accutrend® Plus in the measurement of GLU, CT, and TG. The EP-9-A2 guide (Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute), Bland-Altman graphical analysis, and Lin's correlation coefficient of concordance (CCC) were implemented. Results: The average differences (p > 0.05) between PE and CM for GLU, TC, and TG were 2.21, 1.20, and 0.72 mg·dl-1, respectively, in rats and 1.06, 4.30, and 2.41 mg·dl-1, respectively, in dogs (p > 0.05). Both methods showed a linear relationship with Pearson's correlation coefficients > 0.96 and R2 > 0.97 for the three biochemical indicators evaluated in both species. The GLU, TC, and TG values obtained by the PE were substantial, as evident from Lin's CCC > 0.96. 3Conclusion: The PE Accutrend® Plus is potent for monitoring GLU, TC, and TG in rats and dogs because of its precision and ability to facilitate measurement by reducing stress in animals during sampling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: This study examined how selenium-supplemented diets affected the performance of naked neck chickens. The birds were fed both organic and inorganic selenium at 0.30 ppm, while the control diet did not include any additional selenium. A total of 225 one-day-old naked neck chicks were randomly divided into 3 experimental groups, each of which was replicated 5 times (replicates) and contained 15 birds. This was done using a completely randomized design. The data was collected after growth, meat quality, and blood profile parameters were assessed. The findings showed that the birds fed inorganic selenium in the diet displayed increased (P < 0.05) feed intake followed by those administered organic selenium and the control diet. On the other hand, birds fed organic selenium in the diet showed enhanced body weight gain and better feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05). Similarly, organic selenium supplementation increased (P < 0.05) breast and thigh weight compared to inorganic selenium, but no other metrics, such as dressing percentage, drumstick weight, liver weight, gizzard weight, heart weight, or wing weight, significantly differed between treatments (P > 0.05). When compared to birds fed inorganic Se and control diet, the birds fed organic Se had greater (P < 0.05) blood levels of total protein and globulin. Additionally, it was discovered that organic Se-fed birds had greater (P < 0.05) blood Se concentrations than control and inorganic Se-fed birds. However, no differences between treatments were found in albumin, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, or uric acid (P > 0.05). In conclusion, adding Se-enriched yeast, as an organic selenium source, to diets may enhance the poor growth and slaughter characteristics of naked neck chicks without negatively affecting blood chemistry.

Introduction: Intestinal colonisation of Salmonella is a major concern in the poultry industry, and a low dose of the high-purity synthetic capsaicin analogue phenylcapsaicin (PheCap) has the potential to be a phytobiotic alternative to antibiotics in reducing floor Salmonella in commercial broiler chicken houses. In this study we present the first safety assessment of PheCap at doses relevant for the poultry industry. Methods: In a completely randomized block design, Ross 308 male broilers were offered feed containing 0, 10, 15, or 150 mg PheCap/kg. Growth rates, mortality, haematology, clinical chemistry, foot pad lesions, litter quality and gross pathological examination of organs and tissues were evaluated for signs of toxicity over a two-phase, 35-day growth period. Results: No differences in feed intake and broiler growth were found, with broilers in the control group having the highest mortality. There was a statistically significant increase in the European Production Efficiency Factor (EPEF) for the 10 (p = 0.02) and 15 mg PheCap/kg feed (p = 0.003) treatment doses. No dose dependent adverse effects were found for any of the treatment doses. The No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) of PheCap is probably higher than that of the highest weekly averaged daily intake of 36.3 mg/kg BW/day observed in the present study. Conclusions: The inclusion of PheCap in broiler feed at doses relevant for the commercial poultry industry is assumed not have any negative effects on broiler health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the recent advances in melanoma therapy, the need for new targets and novel approaches to therapy is urgent. We previously reported melanoma actives that work via binding and downregulating spliceosomal proteins hnRNPH1 and H2. Given the lack of knowledge about the side effects of using spliceosomal binders in humans, an acute toxicity study was conducted to evaluate these compounds in mice. Male and female mice were treated with compounds 2155-14 and 2155-18 at 50 mg/kg/day via subcutaneous injections, and the clinical signs of distress were monitored for 21 days and compared with control mice. Additionally, the effect of the leads on blood chemistry, blood cell counts, and organs was evaluated. No significant changes were observed in the body weight, blood cell count, blood chemistry, or organs of the mice following the compound treatment. The results show that our compounds, 2155-14 and 2155-18, are not toxic for the study period of three weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cannabidiol, better known as simply CBD, is one of the non-psychoactive compounds found in hemp. Its supplementation to horses is gaining in popularity as a potential alternative to conventional pharmaceutical treatments for a variety of conditions such as arthritis and anxiety. Despite potential advantages of CBD supplementation, it may have a negative impact on equine health and performance. More scientific research is needed to form recommendations for its use in horses; therefore, this study was designed to investigate supplementation of CBD oil over 28 days in 30 horses. Targeted levels of supplementation were to provide three levels for comparison (0.0 mg/kg, 0.75 mg/kg, or 1.50 mg/kg); however, the supplements collected during the study were analyzed to be substantially lower than targeted levels when tested at a verified testing facility (0.12 mg/kg and 0.13 mg/kg). At this level of supplementation, CBD oil was well-accepted, CBD was not detectible in blood samples, and blood chemistry parameters to assess liver and kidney function were not adversely affected as a result of supplementation. However, more research is needed to describe the discrepancy between formulated levels compared to tested levels of CBD supplements, in order to make recommendations for its application in the horse industry. Thirty stock type geldings (15 ± 3 years; 556 ± 63 kg BW) were used in a randomized complete design over 28 days to determine the influence of cannabidiol (CBD) oil supplementation levels on body weight, body condition, and blood chemistry. Horses were randomly assigned to one of three dietary treatments (n = 10 per treatment) formulated with canola oil to provide 1.50 mg CBD/kg BW (TRTA), 0.75 mg CBD/kg BW (TRTB), or 0.00 mg CBD/kg BW (canola oil; CTRL). Treatments were top-dressed onto concentrate and individually administered twice daily. Horses were maintained in adjacent dry lots and received coastal bermudagrass hay ad libitum. Body weight and body condition scores (BCS) were obtained every 14 days. On day 0 and 28, blood was collected via jugular venipuncture and serum was harvested to perform a blood chemistry panel and drugs of abuse screening at the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. Data were analyzed using PROC MIXED of SAS (v9.4), and the model included treatment, time, and the treatment × time interaction, and linear and quadratic orthogonal polynomial contrasts to partition sum of squares. Analysis of composited treatment samples revealed lower CBD concentrations than indicated from initial testing by the manufacturer (0.13 mg CBD/kg in TRTA; 0.12 mg CBD/kg in TRTB). At this level of supplementation, canola-based CBD oil was well-accepted by mature horses, banned substances were not detectable in blood, and blood chemistry parameters were not adversely affected as a result of supplementation. More research is warranted to describe the discrepancy between formulated levels compared to tested levels of CBD in the canola-based supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present experiment was to evaluate the effect of feeding a newly produced bacteriocin‐like substance (BLS) as a replacement for monensin in the diets of lactating ewes. In Experiment 1, the effects of BLS or monensin at 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 g/kg diet on in vitro ruminal fermentation were compared. In Experiment 2, 30 multiparous Barki ewes were divided into three treatments in a complete randomized design for 90 days. The ewes were fed a basal diet without supplementation or supplemented with monensin or BLS at 0.5 g/kg DM diet. In Experiment 1, the highest levels of BLS and monensin decreased gas production, while all levels of additives linearly decreased methane production. In Experiment 2, BLS increased nutrient digestibility. Additives increased ruminal total and individual volatile fatty acids and decreased ruminal ammonia‐N. The BLS increased serum albumin and decreased the concentrations of serum liver enzymes, while both additives increased serum glucose and decreased urea‐N. Additives increased daily production of milk, while the BLS treatment increased the feed efficiency. It is concluded that dietary inclusion of BLS at 0.5 g/kg DM for lactating ewes is recommended to replace monensin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood and biochemical profiles of animals can be used to evaluate the physiological state of an individual and relate it to that individual's health. In many countries, water buffaloes are currently evaluated using blood parameters from other bovine species. To accurately interpret the biochemical results from individual animals, species-specific reference ranges should be established. One hundred and twenty-eight water buffaloes, without clinical signs of disease and of different ages, were analyzed, and reference intervals were calculated (95% CI; p < 0.05). The data were analyzed according to three age groups (calves, young animals, and adults) and the infection status (infected or uninfected with Trypanosoma spp.). All the biochemical values of total serum proteins, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma globulin, urea nitrogen, calcium, and phosphorus were included; these are parameters that are generally affected by parasites or by infection with hemotropic agents. Natural infection with Trypanosoma spp. gave rise to differences (p < 0.05) in terms of increased calcium and decreased total protein, alkaline phosphatase, and aspartate aminotransferase. Thus, it can be inferred that the infection follows a chronic course in the affected animals, in this case, young animals or young animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural expansion in Southeast Asia has converted most natural landscapes into mosaics of forest interspersed with plantations, dominated by the presence of generalist species that benefit from resource predictability. Dietary shifts, however, can result in metabolic alterations and the exposure of new parasites that can impact animal fitness and population survival. Our study focuses on the Asian water monitor lizard (Varanus salvator), one of the largest predators in the Asian wetlands, as a model species to understand the health consequences of living in a human-dominated landscape in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. We evaluated the effects of dietary diversity on the metabolism of monitor lizards and the impact on the composition of their parasite communities in an oil palm-dominated landscape. Our results showed that (1) rodent-dominated diets were associated with high levels of lipids, proteins and electrolytes, akin to a fast-food -based diet of little representativeness of the full nutritional requirements, but highly available, and (2) lizards feeding on diverse diets hosted more diverse parasite communities, however, at overall lower parasite prevalence. Furthermore, we observed that the effect of diet on lipid concentration differed depending on the size of individual home ranges, suggesting that sedentarism plays an important role in the accumulation of cholesterol and triglycerides. Parasite communities were also affected by a homogeneous dietary behaviour, as well as by habitat type. Dietary diversity had a negative effect on both parasite richness and prevalence in plantations, but not in forested areas. Our study indicates that human-dominated landscapes can pose a negative effect on generalist species and hints to the unforeseen health consequences for more vulnerable taxa using the same landscapes. Thus, it highlights the potential role of such a widely distributed generalist as model species to monitor physiological effects in the ecosystem in an oil palm-dominated landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food waste (FW) is a source of inexpensive and readily available nutrients that can be used as animal feed. However, the use of FW in fish feed is limited. In this study of juvenile striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus), commercial feed (CD, 34.1% protein and 4.69% lipid based on dry weight) was replaced with graded levels (25, 50, 75, and 100%) of FW (20.3% protein and 14.9% lipid based on dry weight). The dry weight dietary contents of crude protein (32.8 to 19.9%), crude fiber (4.62 to 1.06%), and ash (9.00 to 3.32%) decreased with FW replacement levels, whereas contents of crude lipid (4.69 to 14.5%) and nitrogen-free extract (48.9 to 61.2%) increased. Fish (3.40 ± 0.01 g body weight) were assigned to five treatments, each comprising three tanks (60 cm width × 80 cm length × 45 cm height, 100 L water) containing 15 fish each. They received the experimental diets twice daily (09.00 and 16.00 h) at 3% of body weight over an 8-week feeding trial. At the end of the feeding trial, growth performance, feed utilization, digestive enzyme activities, fillet qualities, carcass composition, and hematological parameters, along with an economic analysis, were used as assessment criteria for a suitable diet. The gradual reduction in growth performance was observed as the proportion of FW increased (P < 0.05), and only the fish that received a diet containing 25% FW showed similar specific growth rates (1.60% body weight day−1) and feed conversion ratios (1.37 g feed g gain−1) to fish that received a diet without FW (P > 0.05). Higher replacement levels had negative effects on these parameters and increased dry matter apparent digestibility coefficients (from 74.0 to 82.2%), while reducing the protein digestibility coefficients (from 85.8 to 67.9%, P < 0.05). Activities of amylase, cellulase, pepsin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, lipase, and the amylase to trypsin ratio were modulated differently across the dietary treatments. The diet containing 25% FW showed no adverse effects on fillet qualities, carcass composition, and hematological parameters. The cost of a diet containing 25% FW (0.71 USD kg−1) was lower than the cost of the commercial feed (0.94 USD kg−1), albeit not statistically significant (P > 0.05). These findings indicate that replacing 25% of commercial feed with FW could reduce feed costs and mitigate the environmental difficulties of FW disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematological and biochemical parameters are useful indicators of raptor health. However, there is still a paucity of such data for many species, including the Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle (Geranoaetus melanoleucus), native to South America. The goal of this study was to determine hematology and blood chemistry reference intervals in 31 captive Black-chested Buzzard-Eagles held at a raptor rehabilitation center in central Chile. We report parameters of interest such as the mean ± SD, and reference intervals for this group of birds using 90% confidence intervals. Measured hematological parameters included red blood cell count, packed cell volume, hemoglobin concentration, Wintrobe indices, and total and differential leukocyte counts. Measured biochemical parameters included aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and creatine kinase activities; and glucose, lipids, proteins, electrolytes, and uric acid plasmatic concentration. All Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle samples were negative for hemoparasites. Establishing reference intervals for hematological and biochemical parameters in the Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle adds to the body of knowledge of health indicators for this raptor species, contributes to its management and ex-situ conservation, and helps identify future research needs. Los parámetros hematológicos y bioquímicos son indicadores útiles del estado de salud en aves rapaces. Sin embargo, existe un vacío en la literatura sobre los valores de referencia para muchas especies, incluyendo a Geranoaetus melanoleucus, una especie nativa de Sudamérica. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar los intervalos de referencia para la hematología y bioquímica sanguínea en 31 ejemplares cautivos de G. melanoleucus presentes en un centro de rehabilitación de la región central de Chile. Reportamos los valores de referencia para esta población considerando un intervalo de confianza del 90%, así como la media y la desviación estándar. Los parámetros hematológicos que se midieron incluyeron el recuento de eritrocitos, el hematocrito, la concentración de hemoglobina, los índices hematimétricos y el recuento absoluto y diferencial de leucocitos. Los parámetros bioquímicos incluyeron la actividad de las enzimas aspartato aminotransferasa, alanina aminotransferasa, fosfatasa alcalina y creatina quinasa, y la concentración plasmática de glucosa, lípidos, proteínas, electrolitos y ácido úrico. Todas las G. melanoleucus fueron negativas para hemoparásitos. Los intervalos de referencia para la hematología y bioquímica sanguínea aquí establecidos amplían la información disponible sobre indicadores de salud en esta especie, contribuyen a su manejo y conservación ex situ, e identifican líneas futuras de investigación en esta área. [Traducción de los autores] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterogeneous distributions are a fundamental principle of ecology, manifesting as natural variability within ecological levels of organization from individuals to ecosystems. In disease ecology, variability in biotic and abiotic factors can result in heterogeneous patterns of transmission and virulence—broadly defined here as the negative consequences of infection. Still, our classic theoretical understanding of disease dynamics comes from models that assume homogeneous transmission and virulence. Here, we test this assumption by assessing the contribution of various sources of individual and spatial heterogeneity to patterns of transmission and sublethal measurements of virulence in two lizard–malaria systems: a three‐parasite assemblage (Plasmodium floridense, Plasmodium leukocytica, and Plasmodium azurophilum) infecting the lizard Anolis gundlachi in the rainforest of Puerto Rico and a single‐parasite system (P. floridense–Anolis sagrei) in Florida. Using a Bayesian model selection framework, we evaluated whether individual host differences (i.e., body size and sex) or spatial variability (i.e., habitat type and local‐scale host spatial structure) drive heterogeneity in the probability of infection or its associated health costs (i.e., body condition, blood chemistry). We found that the probability of infection increases with increasing lizard body size in both systems. However, in Florida, we found the relationship to be subdued in deforested habitats compared to the adjacent urban hydric forests. Furthermore, infection was spatially clustered within sampling sites, with "hot" and "cold" spots across the landscape. Nevertheless, we found no clear evidence of costs of infection on lizard health in any of the measures assessed and hence no grounds for inference regarding heterogeneous virulence. Ultimately, the consistency of our results across systems suggests prominent roles of individual and spatial heterogeneities as driving factors of transmission of vector‐borne diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work is to measure the influence of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) on growth performance, carcass traits, renal and hepatic indices, immunity, lipid profile, antioxidant status, blood minerals, digestive enzymes, and cecal microbiota in broilers. 300 unsexed one-week-old Arbor Acre broiler chicks in total were randomly assigned into 5 treatment groups of 60 chicks per eachwhich were divided into 5 replicates of 12 chicks. The 1st group (G1) was given basal diet (only); the 2nd group (G2), the 3rd group (G3), the 4th group (G4) and the 5th group (G5) were given basal diet treated with CuNPs at a rate of 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/kg diet, respectively. The result revealed a significant improvement (P < 0.01) in performance paramters where the best values of body weight, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio were achieved at 15 mg/kg diet (CuNPs). Moreover, CuNPs supplementation significantly (P < 0.05) improved carcass traits specially carcass, dressing, giblets, and liver percentage, particularly at 15 mg/kg diet which revealed the best results. Furthermore, CuNPs supplementation at all tested levels increased the immune organ's weight (spleen and thymus). Plasma total protein and globulin were increased with CuNPs supplementation at levels 10 to 20 mg/kg diet. CuNPs supplementation (10–20 mg/kg diet) significantly improved liver and renal function by lowering the levels of AST, creatinine and uric acid. Moreover, CuNPs supplementation significantly (P < 0.05) improved lipid profile indicated by decreased the levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol as well as malondialdehyde (MDA). CuNP supplementation significantly improved broiler immunity indicated by increased IgA, IgM, complement (C3) and lysozyme, where CuNPs at 15 and 20 mg/kg diet revealed the best results. CuNPs supplementation increased reduced glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as increased blood minerals (Cu, Fe, P, and Ca). Also, the digestive enzymes of broiler chicks treated with CuNPs significantly increased (P < 0.05), such as lipase, protease, and amylase enzymes. The findings revealed a significant elevation in total bacterial count (TBC) and lactic acid bacteria and significantly decreased total yeast and mold count (TYMC), E. coli, Salmonella and Coliform. In conclusion, CuNPs supplementation significantly improves performance, carcass yield, renal and hepatic indices, lipid profile, immunity, antioxidants, blood minerals, digestive enzymes, and cecal microbiota of broiler chicks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]