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The Caspian pond turtle, Mauremys caspica, is an important reptile species in the southern basin of Caspian Sea. Haematological indices and serum biochemistry can be utilised as valuable screening tools for the health status of many domestic and wild animals. In this study, the blood parameters were measured in male and female turtles to establish physiologic reference ranges of selected haematological and serum biochemical parameters in M. caspica. For this purpose, blood samples were collected from 60 Caspian pond turtles (30 males and 30 females) from the southern basin of Caspian Sea. Significant differences were observed in some haematological indices (i.e. haemoglobin and haematocrit) and serum biochemical indices (i.e. alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and creatine kinase) between the male and female turtles (P<0.05). However, further research is necessary to elucidate the influence of size, sex, season, and habitat variations on haemato-biochemical parameters in the Caspian pond turtle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The inclusion of phytogenic additives in diets for ruminants has shown a positive impact on the growth and health of animals. However, information on the effects of phytogenic additives on dietary energetics, meat quality, and gene expression in ruminants is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a polyherbal phytogenic additive on the growth performance, dietary energetics, carcass and meat traits, blood metabolites, and gene expression of finishing lambs. The polyherbal phytogenic additive improves feed intake, weight gain, feed efficiency, and dietary energy utilization efficiency. Likewise, the effects observed at the genetic level indicate that the polyherbal phytogenic additive improves energy production and antioxidant status in finishing lambs. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of supplementation with a polyherbal phytogenic additive (PPA) on the productive performance, dietary energetics, blood metabolites, carcass traits, meat quality, and gene expression of finishing lambs. Thirty-six male Pelibuey lambs (23.61 ± 0.57 kg body weight (BW)) were housed in individual pens and assigned to four treatments (n = 9) with different doses of PPA: 0 (CON), 2.5 (PPAL), 5 (PPAM), and 7.5 (PPAH) g of PPA/kg of DM for 56 days. Average daily gain, dry matter intake, and observed dietary net energy for maintenance and weight gain increased linearly (p < 0.05) in lambs supplemented with PPAH. A linear reduction (p = 0.02) in FCR was detected in lambs fed PPAM and PPAH. The PPAH supplementation linearly increased (p < 0.001) Longissimus dorsi muscle area, but other carcass traits were not affected (p > 0.05) by PPA doses. The physicochemical characteristics of the meat and the hematological parameters of the lambs were not affected (p > 0.05) by the PPA doses. The glucose, uric acid, creatinine, and bilirubin serum concentrations decreased linearly (p < 0.05) in lambs supplemented with PPAM and PPAH. Gene ontology analyses showed that nine biological processes were modified (p < 0.05), including DNA replication, drug metabolism–cytochrome P450, oxidative phosphorylation, and chemical carcinogenesis–reactive oxygen species. In conclusion, high doses (7.5 g/kg DM) of PPA can improve growth performance and dietary energy utilization efficiency in finishing lambs. Likewise, gene expression analysis indicates that supplementation with high doses of PPA could improve energy production and antioxidant status in finishing lambs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Swine breeding is one of the key aspects of global livestock production, with positive growth in pigmeat production from 2017 to 2022 worldwide and in Russia. This is further demonstrated by an increasing total swine amount (from 2017 to 2022) in the world from 776.6 to 784.2 million heads (FAOSTAT, 2023) and in Russia from 23.1 to 27.6 million heads (ROSSTAT, 2023). Commercial breeds like Landrace, Duroc, and Large White are popular in the USA and Europe, while in Russia, three-breed hybrids (Large White × Landrace × Duroc) are commonly used for commercial farming, according to swine farm management. Based on well-known statistical approaches, we propose for the first time to use a set of such features as the "FFG-factor" ("fattening period × final live weight × gain"), in the equation model as a vector of fixed "phenotypic" effects. In addition, we will try to trace the relationship between the "FFG factor" and biochemical parameters (including amino acids), which is potentially useful for assessing the health status of swine. In modern animal husbandry, increasing attention is given to mathematical modeling and statistical methods, especially for evaluating commercial hybrids. Our aim was to evaluate the phenotypic and genetic variability of biochemical parameters of blood serum of the 56 hybrid boars (Large White × Landrace × Duroc) raised in feeding stations (Russia) through mathematical modeling. The particular variances and covariances of traits were calculated using the limited maximum likelihood model and the REMLF90 programs. A narrow range of variability was found for major biochemical parameters in relationship with the "FFG-factor" ("fattening period × final live weight × gain"), including the majority of the metabolites (p ≤ 0.05). The highest values of the genetic correlations were observed for the "total protein" parameter with albumins (0.78), globulins (0.94), creatinine (0.99), and enzymes: AST (0.98), ALT (0.80), etc. Phenotypic and genetic relationships showed fairly high correlation coefficients (0.5–0.8). It is important to emphasize that most of the studied amino acids (alanine, arginine, aspartic acid and asparagine, glutamic acid and glutamine, glycine, isoleucine, leucine, serine, threonine, tyrosine, valine) were significantly associated with the "FFG-factor" (p ≤ 0.05). The proposed approach provides reliable data on metabolite variability and correlations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Caspian pond turtle, Mauremys caspica, is an important reptile species in the southern basin of Caspian Sea. Haematological indices and serum biochemistry can be utilised as valuable screening tools for the health status of many domestic and wild animals. In this study, the blood parameters were measured in male and female turtles to establish physiologic reference ranges of selected haema-tological and serum biochemical parameters in M. caspica. For this purpose, blood samples were collected from 60 Caspian pond turtles (30 males and 30 females) from the southern basin of Caspian Sea. Significant differences were observed in some haematological indices (i.e. haemoglobin and haematocrit) and serum biochemical indices (i.e. alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and creatine kinase) between the male and female turtles (P

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in the biofortification of lentil seedlings and subsequently improve the Zn status in rats. In the first phase of the study, the effects of various ZnO NPs concentrations (0, 10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 ppm) on the lentil growth, Zn accumulation, and other physiological parameters were investigated. Subsequently, the rats were fed ZnO NP-biofortified lentil seedlings (20 and 160 ppm) to assess their impact on animal health and Zn status. The results highlighted a concentration-dependent response of lentil seedlings to ZnO NPs, with optimal growth observed at 20 ppm, whereas higher concentrations inhibited lentil growth. Pigment and biochemical analyses revealed a complex interplay between chlorophyll, carotenoids, soluble sugars, and proteins with distinct responses to nanoparticle concentrations. Elevated levels of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde of lentil seedlings at high concentrations of ZnO NPs suggest oxidative stress, countered by the upregulation of antioxidant enzymes and increased phenolic compounds. On the other hand. animal studies have showed that ZnO NP-biofortified lentil seedlings enhance serum zinc and magnesium levels in rats without affecting body weight. While serum triglyceride levels of rats decreased in both treatment groups, an elevation in creatinine and a marked increase in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were observed at a higher ZnO NP concentration (160 ppm), indicative of potential kidney and liver stress. Paradoxically, serum iron levels were lower in all groups consuming lentil seedlings than in the control group, suggesting a potential interaction between lentil components and iron metabolism. These findings suggest that ZnO NP-biofortified lentils may be a promising approach to enhance Zn nutrition; however, further investigation is needed to optimize ZnO NPs concentration and assess long-term safety.

Quails are a valuable type of poultry, as their eggs and meat have high nutritional value. Moreover, quails are distinguished by early sexual maturity, high egg production and small body size. These unique characteristics make them an attractive object for breeding and scientific research. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of feed with extruded components and phytobiotics on the meat productivity and blood biochemistry of Texas quails. The methodology involved dividing 200 quails into experimental and control groups, feeding them different diets over a 60-day period, and analysing their growth performance, meat yield, and biochemical blood parameters using statistical analysis tools. As a result of the research, it was revealed that feed produced according to the developed recipe has a positive effect on the weight gain of quails. In the experimental group (EG), the absolute increase was 313.7 ± 4.34 g, in the control group (CG) – 275.9 ± 2.89 g (not significant difference, P > 0.05). Furthermore, the feed with extruded components and phytobiotics led to improved feed conversion ratio in the EG compared to the control. The birds in the EG also demonstrated higher carcass weight and yield. The experimental diet also appeared to have a positive influence on the immune status of the quails. The results demonstrate the potential benefits of incorporating extruded components and phytobiotics into quail feed to improve growth performance and maintain healthy physiological parameters. Evaluating the biochemical blood test results, it can be indicated that no significant changes in the blood composition were detected, which may indicate the absence of a negative effect of the developed feed on the body of birds. The results obtained may be of practical importance for developing optimal diets for meat quails and improving the quality and safety of their products

Background and Aim: Horses used for antisera production are repeatedly hyperimmunized to produce high levels of specific antibodies. This prolonged process can lead to various health issues, including amyloidosis, which involves the accumulation of amyloid proteins in organs and tissues, potentially causing organ dysfunction and failure. These horses are often retired when they no longer produce adequate antibody levels. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of prolonged antisera production on the health of retired horses by examining their blood biochemistry and serum amyloid A (SAA) levels, which are indicators of systemic inflammation and organ damage. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 12 horses for this study. Nine horses were retired antisera-producing horses that had been discontinued for 2 years, while three healthy non-antisera-producing horses were used as controls. These twelve horses were divided into four groups based on the duration of their active period as antisera producers (never been used, 2–3 years, 4–5 years, and 6–7 years). We measured key blood biochemistry parameters and SAA levels to evaluate the health status of the horses. Results: Total protein, fibrinogen, and globulin levels were elevated, whereas other parameters remained normal. The findings indicate that despite normal SAA levels, the horses exhibited signs of ongoing health issues related to their previous use in antisera production, such as increased total plasma protein, fibrinogen, and globulin levels, as well as the presence of amyloid deposits in vital organs such as the liver and kidneys, as observed in post-mortem examinations. Conclusion: Despite normal SAA levels, retired antisera-producing horses showed elevated total protein, fibrinogen, and globulin levels, indicating ongoing health issues.

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of nanoparticles of Selenium (Nano-Se) on productive performance, nutrient digestibility, carcass criteria, selenium retention, blood biochemistry, and histopathological examination of broiler chicken. A total of 192 1-day-old male broiler chickens (Cobb 500) were randomly assigned to one of four treatment diets, with each diet given to six replicates of eight chicks. The birds were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups, each of which included Nano-Se at levels of 0, 0.2, 0.3, or 0.4 mg/kg. The feeding experiment lasted 35 days. Nano-Se addition to broiler diets at 0.2 and 0.3 mg/kg enhanced body weight and body weight gain linearly compared to the control diet and 0.4 mg/kg. The apparent digestibility coefficient of ether extracts linearly increased with increasing Nano-Se levels up to 0.4 mg/kg. Increasing Nano-Se decreased serum cholesterol, triglycerides, alanine aminotransaminase, aspartate aminotransaminase, and creatinine in broiler chickens. Also, serum antioxidants showed a significant increase with increasing Nano-Se levels. As Nano-Se levels were supplemented, improvements in cooking loss, water-holding capacity, and antioxidants were observed as compared to the control. Additionally, a noticeable improvement in meat quality was observed regarding the obtained meat characters. It was preferred to use low doses of Nano-Se (0.3 mg/kg), as tissue retention of Se for both meat and liver was more comparable to the control. In conclusion, nutritional supplementation with Nano-Se increased growth performance, nutrient digestibility, selenium retention, meat quality, blood biochemistry, histological indices, and antioxidant activity of broiler chickens. Overall, the best performance of broilers was observed with Nano-Se supplementation at 0.3 mg/kg, highlighting its potential as a novel supplement for broiler diets.

Abstract To investigate the safety of Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves sold in the market, a study was conducted using Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves randomly collected from an online store and a large supermarket. Acute toxicity experiments were performed on mice, and their body weight was monitored for 14 days after administration. After the observation period, blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, and organ pathology was examined. Then, the content of copper (Cu), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), and the residues of nine organochlorine pesticides in Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves were measured according to the National Food Safety Standard (GB/T5009-2003) and the pesticide residue determination methods in the 2020 edition of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. The results showed that the mice in the Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves (online store) group experienced mortality and severe liver and lung damage. The levels of lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, and the nine organochlorine pesticides met the relevant standards and regulations. However, the copper content in the Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves (online store) group was nearly 80 times higher than that in the supermarket group. Mice in the Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves (supermarket) group remained healthy without any abnormalities, and the levels of harmful metals and organochlorine pesticides complied with the standards and regulations. The study suggests the need for regulatory policies and safety standards for the sale of Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves.

This study aimed to examine the effects of food supplementation with varying amounts of phytase on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and blood parameters of growing rabbits in summer settings in Egypt. An experimental design was conducted incorporating three levels of phytase: 0.0, 1.5, and 3.0 g/kg of food, along with a control group, during the winter season. Results demonstrated that growth performance, daily feed intake, feed conversion ratio, nutritional digestibility, nutritive values, hemoglobin, hematocrit, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and red blood cell counts were considerably diminished throughout the summer season in comparison to the winter control. Conversely, phytase levels significantly enhanced growth performance indicators, crude fiber (CF) and ether extract (EE) digestibility, as well as other blood parameters including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, triglycerides, and cholesterol in growing rabbits. In conclusion, the findings indicated that the fortification of rabbit diets with phytase, particularly at levels of 1.5 and 3.0 g/kg, could improve the growth performance of rabbits during mild and hot climates in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of dietary zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se) supplementation on the growth, blood parameters, antioxidant levels, immune response, and carcass traits of rabbits under summer heat stress in Egypt. Thirty male New Zealand White rabbits, aged 35 days with an average weight of 637.96 ± 15.70 g, were divided into three groups: a control group, a zinc-supplemented group (50.0 mg/kg diet), and a selenium-supplemented group (0.3 mg/kg diet). The results revealed that Zn supplementation led to significant improvements in feed intake, body weight, and feed conversion ratio compared to Se supplementation and the control. Both Zn and Se supplementation increased serum total protein, albumin, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), lysozyme, and immunoglobulin A (IgA), while decreasing total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), urea, creatinine, and MDA. However, no significant differences were observed in all hematological parameters, blood contents of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), or immunoglobulin G (IgG), as well as carcass traits among the experimental groups. In conclusion, supplementing rabbit diets with Se (0.3 mg/kg diet) or Zn (50 mg/kg diet) could ameliorate the adverse effects of heat stress on rabbit growth and health in hot climates of the summer season in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Horses used for antisera production are repeatedly hyperimmunized to produce high levels of specific antibodies. This prolonged process can lead to various health issues, including amyloidosis, which involves the accumulation of amyloid proteins in organs and tissues, potentially causing organ dysfunction and failure. These horses are often retired when they no longer produce adequate antibody levels. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of prolonged antisera production on the health of retired horses by examining their blood biochemistry and serum amyloid A (SAA) levels, which are indicators of systemic inflammation and organ damage. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 12 horses for this study. Nine horses were retired antiseraproducing horses that had been discontinued for 2 years, while three healthy non-antisera-producing horses were used as controls. These twelve horses were divided into four groups based on the duration of their active period as antisera producers (never been used, 2–3 years, 4–5 years, and 6–7 years). We measured key blood biochemistry parameters and SAA levels to evaluate the health status of the horses. Results: Total protein, fibrinogen, and globulin levels were elevated, whereas other parameters remained normal. The findings indicate that despite normal SAA levels, the horses exhibited signs of ongoing health issues related to their previous use in antisera production, such as increased total plasma protein, fibrinogen, and globulin levels, as well as the presence of amyloid deposits in vital organs such as the liver and kidneys, as observed in post-mortem examinations. Conclusion: Despite normal SAA levels, retired antisera-producing horses showed elevated total protein, fibrinogen, and globulin levels, indicating ongoing health issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Phytogenic additives would be helpful to alleviate the adverse effect of Campylobacter jejuni on the performance and physiological responses of broiler chickens. Objective: This experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of Echinacea purpurea (EP) and Thymbra spicata (TS) on the performance, nutrient digestibility, serum biochemistry, intestinal morphology, intestinal microbiota and immune responses of broilers challenged with C. jejuni from 0 to 42 days of age. Methods: A total of 240 male broiler chickens were divided into 6 groups and fed various diets: a control diet; the control diet supplemented with EP at 0.25% (EP25) or 0.50% (EP50); the control diet supplemented with TS at 0.25% (TS25) and 0.50% (TS50); or the control diet containing erythromycin at 55 ppm. Chicks were orally challenged with C. jejuni on Days 21 and 23 of age. Results: EP and TS25 diets enhanced European production efficiency factor, feed conversion ratio and digestibility of dry matter and organic matter. TS25 increased duodenal villous height (VH) and surface area on Day 42 of age. EP25 diet increased ileal VH compared to control and erythromycin diets. Diets containing certain EP25 and TS increased the Bifidobacterium population and decreased C. jejuni population on Day 39 of age. EP50 and TS50 diets increased antibody titration against Newcastle disease virus. Conclusions: In conclusion, EP and TS dietary supplementation improved performance, microflora, intestinal morphology and immune responses in C. jejuni‐challenged broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quails are a valuable type of poultry, as their eggs and meat have high nutritional value. Moreover, quails are distinguished by early sexual maturity, high egg production and small body size. These unique characteristics make them an attractive object for breeding and scientific research. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of feed with extruded components and phytobiotics on the meat productivity and blood biochemistry of Texas quails. The methodology involved dividing 200 quails into experimental and control groups, feeding them different diets over a 60-day period, and analysing their growth performance, meat yield, and biochemical blood parameters using statistical analysis tools. As a result of the research, it was revealed that feed produced according to the developed recipe has a positive effect on the weight gain of quails. In the experimental group (EG), the absolute increase was 313.7 ± 4.34 g, in the control group (CG) – 275.9 ± 2.89 g (not significant difference, P > 0.05). Furthermore, the feed with extruded components and phytobiotics led to improved feed conversion ratio in the EG compared to the control. The birds in the EG also demonstrated higher carcass weight and yield. The experimental diet also appeared to have a positive influence on the immune status of the quails. The results demonstrate the potential benefits of incorporating extruded components and phytobiotics into quail feed to improve growth performance and maintain healthy physiological parameters. Evaluating the biochemical blood test results, it can be indicated that no significant changes in the blood composition were detected, which may indicate the absence of a negative effect of the developed feed on the body of birds. The results obtained may be of practical importance for developing optimal diets for meat quails and improving the quality and safety of their products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of nanoparticles of Selenium (Nano-Se) on productive performance, nutrient digestibility, carcass criteria, selenium retention, blood biochemistry, and histopathological examination of broiler chicken. A total of 192 1-day-old male broiler chickens (Cobb 500) were randomly assigned to one of four treatment diets, with each diet given to six replicates of eight chicks. The birds were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups, each of which included Nano-Se at levels of 0, 0.2, 0.3, or 0.4 mg/kg. The feeding experiment lasted 35 days. Nano-Se addition to broiler diets at 0.2 and 0.3 mg/kg enhanced body weight and body weight gain linearly compared to the control diet and 0.4 mg/kg. The apparent digestibility coefficient of ether extracts linearly increased with increasing Nano-Se levels up to 0.4 mg/kg. Increasing Nano-Se decreased serum cholesterol, triglycerides, alanine aminotransaminase, aspartate aminotransaminase, and creatinine in broiler chickens. Also, serum antioxidants showed a significant increase with increasing Nano-Se levels. As Nano-Se levels were supplemented, improvements in cooking loss, water-holding capacity, and antioxidants were observed as compared to the control. Additionally, a noticeable improvement in meat quality was observed regarding the obtained meat characters. It was preferred to use low doses of Nano-Se (0.3 mg/kg), as tissue retention of Se for both meat and liver was more comparable to the control. In conclusion, nutritional supplementation with Nano-Se increased growth performance, nutrient digestibility, selenium retention, meat quality, blood biochemistry, histological indices, and antioxidant activity of broiler chickens. Overall, the best performance of broilers was observed with Nano-Se supplementation at 0.3 mg/kg, highlighting its potential as a novel supplement for broiler diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the safety of Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves sold in the market, a study was conducted using Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves randomly collected from an online store and a large supermarket. Acute toxicity experiments were performed on mice, and their body weight was monitored for 14 days after administration. After the observation period, blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, and organ pathology was examined. Then, the content of copper (Cu), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), and the residues of nine organochlorine pesticides in Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves were measured according to the National Food Safety Standard (GB/T5009-2003) and the pesticide residue determination methods in the 2020 edition of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. The results showed that the mice in the Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves (online store) group experienced mortality and severe liver and lung damage. The levels of lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, and the nine organochlorine pesticides met the relevant standards and regulations. However, the copper content in the Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves (online store) group was nearly 80 times higher than that in the supermarket group. Mice in the Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves (supermarket) group remained healthy without any abnormalities, and the levels of harmful metals and organochlorine pesticides complied with the standards and regulations. The study suggests the need for regulatory policies and safety standards for the sale of Indocalamu Iatifolius McClur leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subclinical mastitis (SCM) has a detrimental impact on cow's milk characteristics. The study was to investigate the consequences of SCM on milk composition and blood biochemistry, oxidative stress biomarkers, and the correlation between different milk and serum parameters in SCM-affected cows. The multiparous Holstein cows were grouped as 16 subclinical infected and nine healthy according to milk somatic cell count and California Mastitis Test scores. The blood and milk samples were gathered from each animal and evaluated for compositional, biochemical, and oxidative stress marker alterations. SCM-affected milk samples showed a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in fat, protein, lactose, total solids, solids-non-fat percentages, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and a significant (P < 0.05) increase in ash %, catalase, and malondialdehyde (MDA). Milk somatic cell count showed a positive correlation with MDA and catalase. Milk fat showed a positive correlation with lactose, total protein, and albumin. A significant increase in catalase and total protein associated with a significant decrease in Ca level was recorded in SCM blood samples. The results indicate that a significant correlation between different parameters in blood and milk can be useful as a proper clinical indicator for the early detection of SCM in cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fasting consists of abstaining from all or part of food and drink for a given period of time. Fasting people have a therapeutic advantage, as fasting can promote weight loss, improve glycemic control, reduce the risk of heart disease, etc. The current investigation of a case was conducted on Jain monk to understand the health impact and generate myriad hypotheses based on prolonged fasting on water alone. Data were collected from a 46-years aged Tapasavi (Monk) who had started fasting on 'water only' for 170 days commencing from 14th January 2023 after taking consent. Blood investigations and Magnetic resonance imaging were also conducted. He was drinking only warm water of around 500 ml in the morning and 500 ml in the evening. The weight of the person in this case has been reduced from 46 KG at the time of initiation of the fasting to 40.3 KG at the end of fasting. It seems that his biological age corresponds to 18 years old person. Haemoglobin and white blood cells were in normal limit from baseline till last day of fasting. However, lymphocytes decreased. Serum urea increased to 64.88 mg/dl while uric acid increased three times from the baseline level. Serum bilirubin was elevated even during baseline and was also very high on the last day of fasting. Vitamin B12 level was in normal range even after 170 days of water only fast. Serum ketone bodies were raised. Magnetic resonance imaging findings were normal. In this case, blood levels for several indicators have fluctuated, which may mean that a lot of bodily organs aren't functioning properly. More so, this case study generated a number of hypotheses, and in order to create strong support for each hypothesis and long term health impact, the targeted longitudinal, case control, and cohort studies are required for generating robust evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aim of poultry production is to obtain a high yield and quality end product. To reduce the risk of disease, many direct-fed microbial products have been developed. That appears to be an excellent tool for disease prevention. We evaluated the influence of the commercial, competitive exclusion (CE) product, Broilact®, on the growth rate, hematology, serum biochemistry, and innate immunity in male ROSS-308 chickens, randomly divided into two groups (Broilact® treatment and control) raised for 42 days. The birds' body weight was determined at 1, 7, 14, 28, 35, and 42 days, and the blood samples were collected at days 22 and 42 of life. We observed lower mortality, better gait score, and higher final body weight in the Broilact® group. At day 22, birds from the treated group presented higher white blood cells counts (WBC) and T cytotoxic lymphocyte (CD8+) counts, higher total protein (TP) (fraction globulin and albumin), and lower triglyceride (TAG) and Ca2+ plasma concentrations. No differences were found in acute phase proteins (APPs). At day 42, only the K+ and Na+ concentrations were higher, while the IL-10 was lower in treated birds' blood serum. Our results indicate that treatment with one dose of the Broilact® product at day one of life has a beneficial influence, which improves the chickens' performance, leg health and some serum enzymes activity, maintains electrolyte homeostasis, and influences leukocyte count with the rise of T CD8+ subpopulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

：This study aimed to investigate the effects of enzymatically extracted substance of Guiqi Yimu decoction on growth performance, immune, antioxidant and serum biochemical indicators in mice. One hun‐ dred 4-week-old ICR mice were selected for the experiment and randomly divided into one control group and four experimental groups (A1, A2, A3, A4). The control group was fed with a basic diet, while the A1, A2, A3, and A4 experimental groups were supplemented with 250, 500, 750 mg/kg and 1 000 mg/kg enzymatically extracted substance of Guiqi Yimu decoction in the basic diet, respec‐ tively. Each group had four replicates, with five mice per replicate. The pre trial period was three days, and the formal trial lasted for 28 days. During the experiment, the growth performance, immune, antioxidant and serum biochemical indicators of mice were measured. The results showed that compared with the control group, the final weight and average daily gain of mice in the A3 and A4 groups were significantly increased (P<0.05), while the feed to weight ratio was significantly decreased (P<0.05); compared with the control group, the serum levels of T-AOC, T-SOD, and GSH-Px in the A3 and A4 groups of mice were significantly increased (P<0.05), while the MDA content was significantly decreased (P<0.05); compared with the control group, there was no significant difference in the total protein, albumin, globulin, urea nitrogen, and glucose content in the serum of the experimental group mice (P>0.05). The levels of triacylglycerol, cholesterol, and lowdensity lipoprotein cholesterol in the serum of the A2, A3 and A4 group mice decreased significantly (P< 0.05), while the content of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased significantly (P<0.05); com‐ pared with the control group, the levels of IgA, IgG, IgM, IL-17, TNF-α in the liver homogenate of A2, A3, and A4 groups of mice were significantly increased (P<0.05), while the levels of IL-2 were signifi‐ cantly decreased (P<0.05). In summary, adding enzymatically extracted substance of Guiqi Yimu decoc‐ tion to the basic diet significantly improved the growth performance immune and antioxidant functions and lipid metabolism of mice. Based on feeding cost considerations, it was recommended to add 750 mg/kg of enzymatically extracted substance of Guiqi Yimu decoction to the basic diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cincalok is a fermented shrimp from West Kalimantan, Indonesia, which has many beneficial compounds such as omega-3 and astaxanthin. The LD50 of the cincalok oil was more than 5000 mg/ Kg BW (practically non-toxic), so there is an opportunity that cincalok can develop into a supplement. However, single and repeated doses may have different toxic potential. This study aimed to observe the sub-chronic toxicity of cincalok oil in Wistar strain rats (Rattus norvegicus L.) after 28 days of repeat doses in oral administration based on OECD 407 test guidelines. Thirty of the male and female Wistar strain rats were divided into six groups respectively that consisted of one control group of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) administration, three dosing groups of cincalok oil administration with dose variation of 100, 400, and 1000 mg/Kg BW, and two satellite groups of 1000 mg/Kg BW dose of cincalok oil administration and VCO control administration. The biochemistry and histopathological investigation was performed. The results showed the biochemical profiles of cincalok oil has no effect on LDL, urea, creatinine, serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase blood profiles. While on total cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL profiles, it has reversible effect. Histopathological investigation showed minimal fat degeneration with little congestion and necrosis in the liver, hypertrophy, and hypercholesterolemia in the heart, hydropic degeneration in the kidney, and no disturbance was found in the lung and spleen. Based on biochemical and histopathological result showed that cincalok had no toxic effect and potential to be developed as drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The white stork Ciconia ciconia is a bird species located at the top of the trophic pyramid in grassland and wetland ecosystems. This charismatic species is susceptible to pesticides and their environmental residues. In 2016, we collected blood samples from 114 white stork chicks across Western and Southern Poland. Chicks were sexed by molecular analysis and aged by development pattern. We studied the relationship between the concentration of pesticides (beta-HCH, heptachlor, aldrin, endrin, 4.4′-DDD, 4.4′-DDE and 4.4′-DDT) and of PCB in the chicks' blood with blood morphology and biochemistry parameters in the blood. The mean (± SD) values of concentrations of above detection level pesticides were: for (1) beta-HCH 4.139 ± 19.205; (2) 4.4′-DDE 9.254 ± 91.491 and additionally (3) PCB 16.135 ± 44.777 ppb. We found negative relationships between beta-HCH and oxidative stress enzyme activity in the blood, between beta-HCH and leukocyte concentration and between 4.4′-DDE and catalase activity. We also found a positive relationship between the concentration of pesticides in blood and the age of chicks. Interestingly, we found a higher concentration of PCB in the blood of male stork chicks than in female stork chicks. We provide more evidence that the presence of pesticides in the environment can be a strong stress factor, shaping the health status of birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insects like Schistocerca gregaria, the desert locust, are becoming recognized as possible poultry feed. More and more scientists are becoming interested in using insects for poultry feed, especially as a novel and sustainable source of high-grade protein. This study investigated the effects of desert locust dietary supplementation on the growth performance, carcass quality, and blood biochemistry of broiler chickens. A total of 320 1-day old broiler chicks (Cobb 500) were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups (3 levels of locusts' supplementation and 1 control group) and fed diets with varying levels of desert locust inclusion (control, 1, 2 & 3%). There were four replicates of each dietary treatment resulting in 80 birds per treatment group (20 birds/ replication). Birds were arranged in a completely randomized design. The trial lasted six weeks, growth performance parameters were evaluated. Ten birds from each treatment were slaughtered for the carcass analysis at the end of the experiment. Additionally, 10 blood samples from each dietary treatment (from the slaughtered birds) were collected for biochemical parameters to assess the physiological parameters (plasma total protein, albumin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, and uric acid) responses to the dietary treatments. Significant variation had been observed in the growth performance at 5th week of age (P< 0.01). Broiler diets supplemented with 2% locusts were found to improve body weight and kidney function while having no negative impact on carcass and organ weights. The results indicated a substantial increase (P< 0.03) in the antibody titer against the Newcastle disease virus in the chickens fed 3% locust meal. The findings provide insights into the potential utilization of desert locusts as a sustainable protein source in broiler chicken diets. In conclusion, the use of desert locust meal in broiler chicken diets presents opportunities for the poultry industry to enhance sustainability, reduce costs, and improve feed efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was conducted during the month of February and March, 2023 at Livestock Research Station, Kamdhenu University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat, India to evaluate the effect of dietary addition of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) seed on growth performance, haemato-biochemical profile and faecal microbiota of Kankrej calves. Eighteen Kankrej calves were randomly divided into three treatment groups, viz. Basal diet (control), Basal diet+5 g animal-1 day-1 of fennel seed powder supplementation and Basal diet+10 g animal-1 day-1 of fennel seed powder supplementation for a period of 60 days. Results revealed that there was numerically higher body weight gains were observed in groups fed 5 and 10 g of fennel seed daily than the control, the difference was statistically not significant (p>0.05) among the treatment groups. The mean faecal counts (log10 cfu g-1 in fresh faeces) of lactobacillus were increased, while coliform were reduced in groups fed 5 and 10 g of fennel seed daily as compared to control group. There was no effect (p>0.05) on the haemoglobin, haematocrit, total erythrocytes count and total leucocytes count among the treatment groups. No difference (p>0.05) was found in serum levels of total proteins, albumin, globulin, urea, triglycerides, cholesterol, ALT and AST concentrations among the treatment groups. It may be concluded that dietary fennel seed powder supplementation in calves improved growth performance and had beneficial effect on faecal microbiota with higher faecal lactobacillus count and lower faecal coliform count. Fennel seed supplementation did not affect haemato-biochemical profile of calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early mild stress (EMS) is like preparedness and might help fish deal with stress appropriately. This study investigated how EMS and photoperiod changes can impact growth, haematology, blood biochemistry, immunological response, antioxidant system, liver enzymes, and stress response of oscar (Astronotus ocellatus; 7.29 ± 0.96 g) before and after acute confinement stress (AC stress). Ten experimental treatments included five different photoperiods 8L16D (08:16 light to dark), 12L12D (12:12 light to dark), 16L8D (16:08 light to dark), 20L4D (20:04 light to dark), and 24L0D (24:00 light to dark), and these five photoperiod schedules were conducted in an EMS condition. After 9 weeks, no significant differences were found in growth parameters, survival rate, and body composition. At the end of the experiment and after AC stress, fish farmed in 24 light hours had the lowest haematocrit, white blood cells, total protein, blood performance, lysozyme, immunoglobulin M, complement C3, superoxide dismutase, and catalase. Fish that experienced EMS had significantly higher survival rates than those farmed in normal conditions (80.67% vs 61.33%). In conclusion, considering all measured parameters, 8-h light can be suggested as an optimum photoperiod for this fish species. Under 24L0D (no EMS) conditions, there were many negative effects apparent. In addition, a positive effect of EMS was evident in terms of survival after AC stress. AC stress decreased some health parameters under 24-h light treatment, while these results were not observed in EMS-exposed fish. Therefore, the EMS schedule can be a useful tool in preventing the negative effects of stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is currently insufficient acknowledgment of the relationship between fish welfare and ultimate fillet quality. The purpose of this study was to assess the impacts of pre-slaughter handling and stocking density as fish welfare markers on fillet quality of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Fish from three stocking densities of 35, 50, and 65 kg·m−3 were reared in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) for 12 weeks and received commercial feed. Ultimately, the fish were either stunned with percussion on the head (control group) or subjected to air exposure for 3 min (anoxia group) before stunning and subsequent collection of blood and fillet samples. Western blot analysis revealed the degradation of actin in both groups. Additionally, higher oxidation progress and lower hardness and pH were observed in anoxia compared to the control group. We observed higher hardness at 35 kg·m−3 in anoxia compared to 50 and 65 km−3. The initial hardness values at 35, 50, and 65 km−3 were 1073, 841, and 813 (g) respectively in the anoxia group. Furthermore, the anoxia and control groups had rigor mortis after 6 and 10 h, respectively. Cortisol and glucose levels, and oxidative enzymes activity were higher in anoxia than in the control group. In conclusion, oxidation induced by anoxia likely plays a crucial role as a promoter of the quality deterioration of largemouth bass fillets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry nutritionists strive to reduce the dietary crude protein for broilers without affecting their performance because of their environmental and economic benefits. Most of this work is being done on maize-based diets. This study was envisaged to examine the comparative response of crude protein reduction to maize and broken-rice based broiler diets. The 3 x 2 (3 crude protein levels i.e. high, medium and low; 2 grains i.e. maize and broken-rice) factorial arrangement of six treatment diets was offered to 360 broiler chicks from day 1 to 35, where each treatment had 6 replicates (10 birds/replicate). The crude protein had a difference of 1.5% between them i.e. starter (1-21 days) and finisher (22-35 days) had 20.5, 19, 17.5% and 19, 17.5, 16% crude protein, respectively. Body weight and feed intake were unaffected by grain source for the first 21 (P>0.05) days but were higher for maize as compared to broken-rice during 22-35 days and overall experimental period (P<0.05). Weight gain and feed intake decreased while feed conversion ratio worsened with the reduction in crude protein during all the stages of experiment (P<0.05), except feed intake and feed conversion ratio for 1-21 days where the changes were non-significant (P>0.05). Crude protein levels or grain source didn’t affect the dry matter and crude fat digestibility (P>0.05) except maize showing better dry matter digestibility than broken-rice (P<0.05). There was no interaction between crude protein level and grain source for any of the parameters (P>0.05) except crude protein digestibility where replacement of maize with brokenrice worsened the already poor crude protein digestibilitpay caused by dietary crude protein reduction (P<0.05). Replacement of maize with broken-rice significantly increased glucose, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (P<0.05). While reducing the dietary crude protein increased the serum levels of glucose, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, highdensity lipoprotein and alanine transaminase but decreased the uric acid levels (P<0.05). The present study suggests that although the effect of crude protein reduction on selected parameters is independent of grain source statistically, the overall response of crude protein reduction was poor to broken-rice based diets as compared to maize-based diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to evaluate the effects of multi-strain probiotic (MSP) on growth, whole-body composition, digestive and antioxidant enzymes, hematology, blood biochemistry, and physiological stress responses in Clarias batrachus fingerlings. Five experimental diets were prepared with supplementation of MSP (composed of Bacillus subtilis, B. licheniformis, and Enterococcus faecalis) powder at 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 g/kg. Healthy fingerlings (N = 225) were procured from a fish hatchery and acclimatized to laboratory conditions for 15 days. After acclimation, the fingerlings (10.13 ± 0.01 g; mean ± SD) were randomly stocked into five experimental groups (15 fish/aquarium) with three replicates and provided with experimental diets at a 5% body weight ration five times a day for 90 days. Fish fed with 2.0 g/kg MSP diets showed significantly higher growth performance in terms of weight gain % (493.98 ± 6.3%) and specific growth rate (1.97 ± 0.01%/day) and the lowest feed conversion ratio (1.72 ± 0.01) in comparison to the control (299.73 ± 5.17%, 1.53 ± 0.01%/day, and 2.28 ± 0.05, respectively). Similarly, higher activities (p < 0.05) of amylase (1.96 ± 0.02 U/mg protein), protease (10.51 ± 0.06 U/mg protein) and lipase (2.26 ± 0.02 U/mg protein) were also observed in the group fed 2.0 g/kg MSP than in the control group (1.20 ± 0.01, 8.61 ± 0.01, and 1.55 ± 0.02 U/mg protein, respectively). Dietary supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase (5.86 ± 0.04 U/mg prot), catalase (85.54 ± 0.58 U/mg prot), and glutathione peroxidase (105.69 ± 0.17 μU/mg prot) and reduced the malondialdehyde content (2.13 ± 0.06 mg/g prot) in fish fed 2.0 g/kg MSP-supplemented diets compared to the control group (4.54 ± 0.08 U/mg prot, 70.24 ± 0.53 U/mg prot, 89.61 ± 0.32 μU/mg prot, and 2.77 ± 0.02 mg/g prot, respectively). Dietary MSP did not affect the survival rate and proximate composition of fish. Hematological parameters such as white blood cells, red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit were also significantly increased in response to MSP supplementation in diets. Moreover, an increasing trend in blood biochemistry was observed in the activities of alanine phosphatase, while a decrease in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase was observed. It is concluded that MSP supplementation up to 2.0 g/kg showed promising results on C. batrachus fingerlings. MSP supplementation significantly enhanced the growth performance, antioxidant and digestive enzyme activities, blood biochemistry, and hematological parameters of C. batrachus compared to the control. The physiological stress response did not show any significant alteration. Thus, MSP can be effectively recommended as an effective growth promotor for fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate peels (PoP) have recently gained attention for their therapeutic properties. Although several studies reported the therapeutic effect, the side effect of feeding pomegranate peels supplemented ration has not received full attention. This study aimed to investigate the effects of feeding dried PoP supplemented ration on body weight gain and selected blood parameters of male Baluchi lambs. Eighteen lambs were randomly assigned to control and two treatment groups, receiving rations with 5% and 10% PoP, respectively, for 60 days. Lambs' weight and blood samples were collected to assess blood parameters and liver enzymes. Results showed a significant reduction in weight gain in treatment groups (18% and 13%) compared to the control group (26%). Although there were no significant differences in blood biochemistry values except for an increase in GGT levels. The lack of change observed in other liver enzymes indicates that PoP is unlikely to cause liver damage. While it is true that PoP is a rich source of antioxidants that can prevent oxidative stress, excessive consumption of PoP can lead to an imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals, resulting in the formation of pro-oxidants and oxidative stress. Therefore, it is important to consume PoP in moderation and balance its intake with other nutrients to maintain a healthy oxidative balance in the body. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended to limit the consumption of PoP to less than 5% of the diet to avoid the potential risks associated with excessive antioxidant intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Phytogenic additives would be helpful to alleviate the adverse effect of Campylobacter jejuni on the performance and physiological responses of broiler chickens. Objective This experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of Echinacea purpurea (EP) and Thymbra spicata (TS) on the performance, nutrient digestibility, serum biochemistry, intestinal morphology, intestinal microbiota and immune responses of broilers challenged with C. jejuni from 0 to 42 days of age. Methods A total of 240 male broiler chickens were divided into 6 groups and fed various diets: a control diet; the control diet supplemented with EP at 0.25% (EP25) or 0.50% (EP50); the control diet supplemented with TS at 0.25% (TS25) and 0.50% (TS50); or the control diet containing erythromycin at 55 ppm. Chicks were orally challenged with C. jejuni on Days 21 and 23 of age. Results EP and TS25 diets enhanced European production efficiency factor, feed conversion ratio and digestibility of dry matter and organic matter. TS25 increased duodenal villous height (VH) and surface area on Day 42 of age. EP25 diet increased ileal VH compared to control and erythromycin diets. Diets containing certain EP25 and TS increased the Bifidobacterium population and decreased C. jejuni population on Day 39 of age. EP50 and TS50 diets increased antibody titration against Newcastle disease virus. Conclusions In conclusion, EP and TS dietary supplementation improved performance, microflora, intestinal morphology and immune responses in C. jejuni‐challenged broilers.

The dietary inclusion of ingredients containing chitin has been claimed to be beneficial to fish health. However, controversial results on growth performance and nutrient digestibility have been reported in literature. The present study aimed at assessing the response of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fed with increasing levels of chitin (0, 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 %) in a semi-purified basal diet. Protein and lipid digestibility was assessed and after 10 weeks of feeding, 6 h after the last meal, fish were euthanized for the evaluation of growth performance, blood biochemistry, brush border membrane and chitinolytic enzyme activity, gene expression of enzymes and nutrient transporters as well as the major pro-inflammatory intestinal cytokines, and mid intestine microbiota. Dietary chitin inclusion of up to 3 % did not hamper growth performances, nutrient apparent digestibility, and levels of most blood enzymes and metabolites. Diet including 4.5 % chitin negatively affected growth performances and nutrient digestibility. The application of a multidisciplinary approach highlighted that the biomarkers related to gut digestion functionality and inflammation response were altered also in fish fed the diets including 1.5 and 3 % of chitin, while gut microbiota did not differ between dietary treatments, even if some taxa suggested to be important in fish physiology were not recovered. Overall, the results demonstrate a good tolerance of rainbow trout to diets including chitin up to 3 %.

Background. Indole and its derivatives are widely used in all areas of pharmaceutical production. The toxicometry of indole compounds has been sufficiently studied. At the same time, there is still no information on the toxic effect on individual organs and systems during long-term intake of most compounds.The aim. To carry out an experimental study of the toxic effect of indole and its derivative 1-benzylindole on the functional state of the heart and blood values.Materials and methods. The work was carried out on 46 white rats, divided into groups: control group (n = 22); animals receiving indole once a day for 1 month (n = 12); animals receiving 1-benzylindole once a day for 1 month (n = 12). The substances were administered intragastrically 5 days a week. The condition of the animals was assessed by integral parameters, peripheral blood parameters and biochemical serum tests, and morphological data.Results. Administration of indole and 1-benzylindole caused an increase in the electrical activity of the atria, a decrease in the duration of the QRS complex, and a statistically significant decrease in blood pressure and body temperature compared to the control group. The intake of indole and 1-benzylindole decreased the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin, increased the activity of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, and increased the concentrations of urea, total cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Against the background of long-term exposure to indole and 1-benzylindole, dystrophic disorders, hypertrophic and atrophic changes in individual fibers with a pronounced congestion of the microcirculatory vessels were revealed in the heart of rats.Conclusion. Indole and 1-benzylindole in case of long-term intake lead to functional disorders of the cardiovascular system, which cause the development of arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease, and atherosclerotic vascular lesions. Preventive measures in industries with possible contact with indole and its derivatives should include regular medical examinations of workers with mandatory monitoring of electrocardiography and advanced indicators of general and biochemical blood tests.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of supplementation with a polyherbal phytogenic additive (PPA) on the productive performance, dietary energetics, blood metabolites, carcass traits, meat quality, and gene expression of finishing lambs. Thirty-six male Pelibuey lambs (23.61 ± 0.57 kg body weight (BW)) were housed in individual pens and assigned to four treatments (n = 9) with different doses of PPA: 0 (CON), 2.5 (PPAL), 5 (PPAM), and 7.5 (PPAH) g of PPA/kg of DM for 56 days. Average daily gain, dry matter intake, and observed dietary net energy for maintenance and weight gain increased linearly (p < 0.05) in lambs supplemented with PPAH. A linear reduction (p = 0.02) in FCR was detected in lambs fed PPAM and PPAH. The PPAH supplementation linearly increased (p < 0.001) Longissimus dorsi muscle area, but other carcass traits were not affected (p > 0.05) by PPA doses. The physicochemical characteristics of the meat and the hematological parameters of the lambs were not affected (p > 0.05) by the PPA doses. The glucose, uric acid, creatinine, and bilirubin serum concentrations decreased linearly (p < 0.05) in lambs supplemented with PPAM and PPAH. Gene ontology analyses showed that nine biological processes were modified (p < 0.05), including DNA replication, drug metabolism–cytochrome P450, oxidative phosphorylation, and chemical carcinogenesis–reactive oxygen species. In conclusion, high doses (7.5 g/kg DM) of PPA can improve growth performance and dietary energy utilization efficiency in finishing lambs. Likewise, gene expression analysis indicates that supplementation with high doses of PPA could improve energy production and antioxidant status in finishing lambs.

In modern animal husbandry, increasing attention is given to mathematical modeling and statistical methods, especially for evaluating commercial hybrids. Our aim was to evaluate the phenotypic and genetic variability of biochemical parameters of blood serum of the 56 hybrid boars (Large White × Landrace × Duroc) raised in feeding stations (Russia) through mathematical modeling. The particular variances and covariances of traits were calculated using the limited maximum likelihood model and the REMLF90 programs. A narrow range of variability was found for major biochemical parameters in relationship with the “FFG-factor” (“fattening period × final live weight × gain”), including the majority of the metabolites (p ≤ 0.05). The highest values of the genetic correlations were observed for the “total protein” parameter with albumins (0.78), globulins (0.94), creatinine (0.99), and enzymes: AST (0.98), ALT (0.80), etc. Phenotypic and genetic relationships showed fairly high correlation coefficients (0.5–0.8). It is important to emphasize that most of the studied amino acids (alanine, arginine, aspartic acid and asparagine, glutamic acid and glutamine, glycine, isoleucine, leucine, serine, threonine, tyrosine, valine) were significantly associated with the “FFG-factor” (p ≤ 0.05). The proposed approach provides reliable data on metabolite variability and correlations.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of chlorogenic acid on productive performance, blood biochemistry and intestinal histomorphology of broiler chickens. A total of 256-day old Ross 308 broiler chicks were divided into 4 treatments with 4 replications, 16 chicks per replicate. Treatments were arranged as follow: control group was left without any additive, whereas group 2-4 supplemented with 1, 1.5 and 2 mL of chlorogenic acid per litter of drinking water respectively. Results of this study showed that the body weight gain of birds received chlorogenic acid significantly increased when compared to control group. Lowest feed intake (P<0.05) was recorded for the birds received 1.5ml of chlorogenic acid than other experimental groups. Better feed conversion ratio was found in birds offered 1 and 1.5 mL chlorogenic acid compared to the control and those offered 2 mL /L of chlorogenic acid. The chlorogenic acid significantly increased villous heights and reduced crypt depths. The higher villous surface area was recorded for the birds received 1 mL of chlorogenic acid (P<0.05) than other groups. The birds in control group significantly increased the serum content of globulin over all treatments. It can be concluded that chlorogenic acid had a positive effect on performance and gut health of broiler chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish can tolerate prolonged periods of fasting more easily than endothermic organisms. However, these fasting periods are associated with pronounced lipid and protein catabolism and body weight loss. We evaluated the use of body reserves, growth performance, and the histology of the intestines and muscles of Colossoma macropomum subjected to prolonged fasting for 45 days and refeeding for 14 days. We used 66 juvenile C. macropomum (71.78 ± 10.75 g) distributed in 10 tanks of 100 L in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) and kept 6 fish in a separate tank, considered the basal group. The fish were divided into two groups: fed (continuously fed for 59 days) and fasted/refed (subjected to fasting for 45 days and subsequently refed for 14 days). The tambaqui juveniles showed the mobilization of their body reserves during 45 days of fasting but with a large deficit in their growth performance. The 14-day refeeding period was sufficient for fish to restore their energy but insufficient for recovering most growth parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study focuses on the use of high-quality and sustainable feed ingredients, derived from circular bioeconomy processes, as major components of new diets for Gilthead sea bream and European sea bass, the most important farmed fish in the Mediterranean basin. In this study, we investigated the effects of replacing dietary plant proteins with insect and poultry by-product meals on the liver health of sea bream and sea bass through histological and biochemical analyses. Four diets were tested, including a control fish meal-free diet, based on plant-derived ingredients, and three other ones, in which 40% of the plant protein was replaced with Hermetia illucens and poultry by-product meals. The results revealed distinct responses to the test diets between sea bream and sea bass, in terms of biometric parameters, lipid metabolism, and liver condition. Sea bream utilized dietary nutrients efficiently, adapting to the test diets in terms of weight gain, physiological well-being, and liver health. Conversely, the test diets led to significant hepatic lipid accumulation in sea bass, resulting in an increased risk to liver health. The liver health of Gilthead sea bream and European sea bass, fed with fish meal-free diets, including various proportions of plant proteins, as well as insect and poultry by-product meals, was investigated through biochemical and histological analyses using a new liver index (LI) formula. Four isoproteic (45% Dry Matter, DM) and isolipidic (20% DM) diets were compared, including a plant-based control diet (CV) and three other test diets, in which 40% of a plant protein-rich ingredient mixture was replaced with meals from Hermetia illucens (H40) or poultry by-product (P40) alone, or in combination (H10P30). The trials lasted 12 and 18 weeks for sea bream and sea bass, respectively. The results obtained thus far highlighted species-specific differences in the physiological response to dietary changes. In sea bream, the biochemical and histological responses suggest favorable physiological and liver health statuses, with higher serum cholesterol (CHO) and triglyceride (TAG) levels, as well as moderate hepatocyte lipid accumulation, with the H10P30 diet compared to the CV (p < 0.05). In sea bass, all diets resulted in elevated serum TAG levels and lipid accumulation in the liver, particularly in fish fed the P40 one (p < 0.05), which resulted in the highest LI, coupled with a higher frequency of severe lipid accumulation, hypertrophy, cord loss, peripheral nuclei displacement, and pyknosis. In conclusion, sea bream adapted well to the test diets, whereas sea bass exhibited altered hepatic lipid metabolism leading to incipient liver steatosis, likely due to the high lipid contents of the diets, including the insect and poultry meals. The LI formula developed in this study proved to be a reliable tool for assessing the effects of dietary changes on the liver health of sea bream and sea bass, consistent with biochemical and histological findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, it is necessary to formulate high‐quality, balanced and low‐cost rations for ruminants from nontraditional sources. The present study conducted to investigate the impact of partially replacing corticated cottonseed (CS) cake with sesame meal (SM) in a lamb feedlot diet on growth performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation and blood biochemistry. Fifteen growing lambs with an initial body weight of 27.4 ± 1.2 kg (6–7 months old) were randomly assigned into three equal groups (n = 5). Lambs in control group (CS) fed a basal diet, while 8% and 16% SM were used to replace an equal portion of corticated CS cake in the second (8SM) and third (16SM) groups respectively. Results showed that most parameters of growth performance and nutrient digestibility were significantly improved (p < 0.05) with the partial replacement of SM (8SM and/or 16SM). Regarding ruminal parameters, ruminal pH and total volatile fatty acids concentration increased (p < 0.05), while ammonia level and total protozoa count decreased with the partial replacement of SM. Moreover, blood parameters showed variant responses to SM partial replacement. Total protein increased, and glucose decreased significantly with 16SM, while cholesterol showed a significant decreasing with both SM replacement levels. SM may substitute CS cake in lamb diet without detrimental effects on performance, digestibility and ruminal fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the research was to illustrate the effects of feeding Nile tilapia fingerlings (Oreochromis niloticus) with low doses of aflatoxins (AFs) with and without vitamin C supplementation to investigate the capacity of vitamin C in detoxification. Ten experimental diets were formulated and divided into three categories. The first category included: T1, T4 and T7 feedings included 20, 40 and 80 μg AFs kg−1 feed respectively, while both the second category T2, T5 and T8 and the third category T3, T6 and T9 were treated with contaminated feed with AFs for 57days then both categories shifted to different regime till the conclusion of the experimentation. The second category was fed uncontaminated feed while the third category was fed a supplemented diet with 100 mg Kg-1 of vitamin C. For 113 days the experiment was conducted. The results showed that shifting from a contaminated diet to an uncontaminated diet (category 2) or adding vitamin C to the contaminated diet (category 3) improved the deterioration that occurred in the values of growth performance, biochemical parameters and histological disorders caused by AFs. Furthermore, the results from the control group were superior to all the treatments.

In this study, the effects of environmental variables such as temperature, salinity, pH, and oxygen on blood variables of the portinid crab, Liocarcinus depurator, were determined. A total of 50 crabs were collected in Çardak Lagoon in 4 different periods; February, May, July, and November 2020. Crabs were first anesthetized on ice for 10 minutes and a 500 μL blood sample from each crab was collected from the coxae of the walking legs, using a 1 mL plastic syringe. The collected hemolymphs were then centrifuged and ELISA (Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay) analysis was performed. The effects of seasonal variables on blood variables were evaluated using Pearson’s correlation analysis. A negative relationship was found between temperature and ALB (albumin), while a negative relationship was found between saturated oxygen and GLU (glucose) and CHOL (cholesterol). The relationship between pH and CHOL was also negative.

AbstractBackground The purpose of this study was to explore the changes in blood cellular and biochemical parameters of rats in a natural environment of low pressure and low oxygen on the plateau.Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats in two groups were raised in different environments from 4 weeks of age for a period of 24 weeks. They were raised to 28 weeks of age and then transported to the plateau medical laboratory of Qinghai University. Blood cellular and biochemical parameters were measured and the data of the two groups were statistically analyzed.Results 1. RBC in the HA group was higher than that in the Control group, but there was no significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05), Compared with the Control group, HGB, MCV, MCH, MCHC and RDW in the HA group were significantly higher (p

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Coated Organic Acids with Essential Oils (COAWEO) supplementation on performance, carcase traits, blood biochemistry, antioxidant status, and gut microbiota of Japanese quail (JQ) fed restricted during the 2nd week of age. Five hundred and forty, 7-days old JQ were distributed into 6 groups with six replicates/groups. The feed restriction (FR) was applied only at days 7, 9, 11, and 13 of age. Two levels of FR were used: −12.5 and −25.0% of the amount of feed consumed by the control group (feeding ad libitum), on the previous day. The diets (control, FR12.5 and FR25.0) were fed with or without 100 g/ton of COAWEO. The results indicate that FR and COAWEO-supplemented diets did not affect weight gain, feed intake, and carcase weight. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) was improved by FR during 7–42 days of age. The total bacterial and Lactobacilli counts in the caeca were, respectively, decreased and increased due to FR and COAWEO. Japanese quail can tolerate 12.5% FR without adverse effects on growth performance, carcase traits, blood biochemistry, and gut microbiota. FR25.0 group supplemented with COAWEO showed improved growth performance than the control without any adverse effect on carcase traits, blood biochemistry, and gut microbiota.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of water-added betaine (BET) and Magic oil, (MAGO) on growth performance and blood biochemistry of broilers exposed to constant heat stress (32 ± 1 °C) during 21–35 d. On day 21, 320 chicks (Ross 308) were straight run to one of four groups based supplements with drinking water (DW): control, BET (1 g/L DW), and/or MAGO (1 ml/L DW), respectively). Each treatment consisted of eight replicates with ten birds each. The performance data were obtained at 21, 28, and 35 d. Serum biochemical data of the birds were estimated at day 35. The results showed that body weight gain (BWG) and feed intake did not differ significantly (p > .05) between the treatments. However, Bet alone or in combination with MAGO has improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the 28–35 d and 21–35 d periods; also, BET lowered (p

The physiological and productive effect of the developed "protected" form of choline in calves' diets after removing them from milk drinking was studied. Heifers analogs by breed, live weight at the age of three months were divided into 2 groups (n = 10), and received rations by group loose housing system. The animals of the experimental group were daily given minigranules of "protected" choline at the rate of 50 mg/ kg of live weight of the active substance mixed with feed for 90 days, with the study of the aftereffect. For 90 days of feeding the supplement, the additional increase in live weight of animals in the control group was 67.1±0.5 kg, in the experimental group – 77.5±1.2 kg, with an average daily increase in live weight of 745.5±0.01g versus 861.1±0.40 g (p ≤0.05), for 30 days of aftereffect, respectively, 733.3±0.03g versus 836.7±0.09 g. The acceleration of the growth of heifers is interconnected with the improvement of the direction of metabolic processes in their body due to the use of an additive. In the blood serum taken at the end of the experiment, there was noted a higher level of total protein – by 6.3 % (p

ABSTRACT For many fish species, prolonged fasting is part of their life cycle, as there are seasonal fluctuations in the quantity and quality of food available in their natural habitat. These animals use endogenous reserves during periods of food scarcity and recover when resources become available again. We evaluated the effect of a prolonged fasting period on indicators of body reserve use, growth performance and intestinal integrity of the Amazonian serrasalmid Piaractus brachypomus. We distributed 66 juveniles (68.6 ± 2.2 g) in 11 tanks. The treatment consisted of 30 days fasting followed by 45 days refeeding and the control of 75 days normal feeding with 5 replicates (one tank with six fish). The six individuals in the 11th tank were used for baseline measurements. Blood parameters, muscle lipid concentration, hepatosomatic and mesenteric fat indices, somatic growth parameters and intestinal villi morphology were measured every 15 days. Glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, total protein, the mesenteric fat and hepatosomatic indices, weight gain, specific growth rate, condition factor and total biomass decreased significantly during fasting compared to the control, but all except body condition recovered during refeeding. The length and perimeter of the intestinal villi was significantly lower during fasting compared to the control. The feeding protocol allowed P. brachypomus to mobilize part of their body reserves during fasting, however, in general, refeeding was sufficient to restore their body needs and growth performance compatible with that of continuously fed animals.

The aim of this safety study in mice was to determine in vivo toxicity and biodistribution potential of a single and multiple doses of L-glutamic acid-g-p(HEMA) polymeric nanoparticles as a drug delivery system. The single dose did not cause any lethal effect, and its acute oral LD50 was >2.000 mg/kg body weight (bw). Multiple doses (25, 50, or 100 mg/kg bw) given over 28 days resulted in no significant differences in body and relative organ weights compared to control. These results are supported by biochemical and histological findings. Moreover, nanoparticle exposure did not result in statistically significant differences in micronucleus counts in bone marrow cells compared to control. Nanoparticle distribution was time-dependent, and they reached the organs and even bone marrow by hour 6, as established by ex vivo imaging with the IVIS® spectrum imaging system. In conclusion, L-glutamic acid-g-p(HEMA) polymeric nanoparticles appear biocompatible and have a potential use as a drug delivery system.