Hematological and plasma profiles and ticks and tick-borne pathogens in wild Formosan black bears (Ursus thibetanus formosanus).

BACKGROUND: The endangered Formosan black bear (Ursus thibetanus formosanus) is the largest native carnivorous mammal in Taiwan. Diseases, poor management, illegal hunting, and habitat destruction are serious threats to the survival of bear populations. However, studies on the impact of diseases on bear populations are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to establish a database of the hematological and plasma profiles of free-ranging Formosan black bears and investigate the occurrence of ectoparasites, blood parasites, and vector-borne pathogens. METHODS: Formosan black bears were captured in Yushan National Park (YNP) and Daxueshan Forest Recreation Area (DSY) in Taiwan. Blood samples were collected from each bear for hematological analysis and plasma biochemistry using a hematology analyzer. Parasites and pathogens were detected using a thin blood smear with Wright-Giemsa staining and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Additionally, macroscopic ectoparasites were collected from bears to detect blood parasites and other pathogens. Moreover, the relationships between the bear variables (sex, age, and occurrence of parasites or pathogens), ectoparasites, and infectious agents were also analyzed. RESULTS: In all, 21 wild bears (14 in YNP and 7 in DSY) were captured and released during the satellite tracking studies. Hematological analysis and plasma biochemistry indicated significant differences in white blood cells (WBC), segments, creatine kinase (CK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels between foot snare and culvert-captured bears. Additionally, there were significant differences in total plasma protein (TPP), creatinine, Ca2+, Mg2+, and K+ levels between male and female bears. Moreover, pathogen-infected bears had significantly higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR; 30 min and 1 h) and globulin levels than uninfected bears. In total, 240 ticks were collected from 13 bears, among which eight adult tick species were identified, including Haemaphysalis flava, Haemaphysalis hystricis, Amblyomma testudinarium, Ixodes ovatus, Dermacentor taiwanensis, Haemaphysalis longicornis, Ixodes acutitarsus, Amblyomma javanense, and nymphs belonging to Haemaphysalis spp. PCR revealed that 13 (61.90%) and 8 (38.10%) bears harbored Hepatozoon ursi and Babesia DNA, respectively. Among the ticks examined, 157 (65.41%) and 128 (53.33%) samples were positive for H. ursi and Babesia, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to establish a database of the hematological and plasma profiles of wild Formosan black bears and investigate ectoparasite infestation and Hepatozoon and Babesia spp. INFECTION: In conclusion, these findings may serve as a reference for monitoring the health and population of locally endangered bears.

Nutritional response to water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) challenges via blood biochemical profiles in goats and sheep.

Eichhornia crassipes remains a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems and poses economic challenges globally. Interestingly, its high nutritional value and abundance in water bodies, making it a promising and cost-effective source of animal feed. The purpose of the study was to see how varying inclusion rates of E. crassipise affected the blood biochemical profiles of Doyogena sheep and Woyto-Guji goat local breeds. Twelve sheep and twelve goats were used in a 2*4 randomized crossover design with two species, four diets, and four phases (15-day adaptation plus 7-day experimental diets), and on the last day blood sample collected. The dietary treatments included E. crassipise (0, 25, 50, and 75%) as a substitute for commercial concentrate. The data were analyzed using SAS software tool PROC GLM, and Pearson's correlation coefficient between serum biochemical indices was computed. Results of AST, ALB, GLB, AST/ALT, and A/G showed significant (P < 0.0001), ALP (P < 0.005), and GLU (P < 0.05) differences between species of animals, except for ALT, CREAT, TP, and UREA. Sheep had higher values for AST, ALP, GLB, AST/ALT, CREAT, and UREA, except for A/G, ALB, ALT, and TP. Among treatments and treatment species interaction effect did not show variation in all studied parameters. Positive correlations were observed between ALT and AST, TP and ALB, and A/G and ALB, negative correlations were observed between ALT and AST/ALT, TP and A/G; GLB and A/G in sheep. Furthermore, positive correlations were observed between AST/ALT with ALT and AST and ALB with TP and A/G; however, negative correlations were observed between ALB with TP and A/G in goats. It was concluded that substituting E. crassipise with concentrate had no adverse effect on the serum biochemical profile.

Response of serum biochemical profile, antioxidant enzymes, and gut microbiota to dietary Hong-bailanshen supplementation in horses.

Background: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is widely used in humans and animals, which is very important for health. TCM affects the body 's immunity and changes in intestinal flora. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary Hong-bailanshen (HBLS) supplementation in horses on serum biochemical profile, antioxidant enzymes and gut microbiota. Methods: In this study, five horses were selected. On day 0, 14, 28, blood samples and feces were collected on days 0, 14, and 28 to analyse gut microbiota, serum biochemical and redox indexes. Results: The results showed that the addition of HBLS to horse diets significantly decreased the level of alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, creatine kinase and malondialdehyde (p < 0.05, p < 0.01) and significantly increased the activity of total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase and catalase (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). Compared with day 14, the levels of alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and creatine kinase were significantly decreased; however, the level of catalase was significantly increased in the horses continuously fed with HBLS for 28 days (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). Alpha diversity analysis was performed that chao1 (p < 0.05), observed_specicies, faith'pd and goods_coverage upregulated in the horses fed HBLS. A total of 24 differential genera were detected adding HBLS to diet increased the abundance of Bacillus, Lactobacillaceae, Leuconostocaceae, Christensenellaceae, Peptostreptococcaceae, Faecalibacterium, Erysipelotrichaceae, Pyramidobacter, Sphaerochaeta, WCHB1-25, Bacteria, Oscillospira, and Acetobacteraceae, while reduced Aerococcus, EtOH8, Syntrophomonas, Caulobacter, Bradyrhizobiaceae, W22, Succinivibrionaceae, and Desulfovibrio (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Adding HBLS to the diet could be a potentially effective strategy to improve horses' health.

Chromogenic, Biochemical and Proteomic Identification of Yeast and Yeast-like Microorganisms Isolated from Clinical Samples from Animals of Costa Rica.

Yeast infections are challenging human and animal medicine due to low rates of detection and the emergence of unknown ecology isolates. The aim of this study was to verify the biochemical identification of yeasts and yeast-like microorganisms obtained from animals comparing the results with chromogenic media and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF MS). Between January and August 2023, yeast and yeast-like isolates from samples of animals with suspicion of mycosis were identified using Vitek® 2 Compact, Brilliance® Candida Agar and MALDI Biotyper® MSP. A total of 39 cases were included, and 45 isolations were obtained. Cryptococcus neoformans (15.5%, 7/45), Meyerozyma guilliermondii (13.3%, 6/45), Candida parapsilosis (11.1%, 5/45), Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis (8.9%, each one 4/45) were the most identified organisms. There was full agreement with the three identification methods in 71.1% (32/45) of the isolates, disagreement on species in 17.8% (8/45), disagreement on genus and species in 6.7% (3/45) and, in 4.4% (2/45), there was no matched pattern in MALDI-TOF to compare the results. Biochemical methods are a good option in laboratories where proteomics are not available, and chromogenic media enhances diagnostics by detecting mixed infections. Surveillance must be implemented to improve the detection of agents shared between humans and animals.

Status of selected biochemical and coagulation profiles and platelet count in malaria and malaria-Schistosoma mansoni co-infection among patients attending at Dembiya selected Health Institutions, Northwest Ethiopia.

Malaria and schistosomiasis are infectious diseases that cause coagulation disorders, biochemical abnormalities, and thrombocytopenia. Malaria and Schistosoma mansoni co-infection cause exacerbations of health consequences and co-morbidities.This study aimed to compare the effect of malaria and Schistosoma mansoni co-infection and malaria infection on selected biochemical and coagulation profiles, and platelet count. An institutional-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from March 30 to August 10, 2022. A total of 70 individuals were enrolled in the study using a convenient sampling technique. Wet mount and Kato Katz techniques were conducted to detect Schistosoma mansoni in a stool sample. Blood films were prepared for the detection of plasmodium. The data was coded and entered into EpiData version 3.1 before being analyzed with SPSS version 25. An independent t test was used during data analysis. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The mean [SD] of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatinine, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin in the co-infected was higher than in malaria infected participants. However, the mean of total protein and glucose in co-infected was lower than in the malaria infected participants. The mean of prothrombin time, international normalization ratio, and activated partial thromboplastin time in co-infected was significantly higher, while the platelet count was lower compared to malaria infected participants. Biochemical and coagulation profiles, and platelet count status in co-infection were changed compared to malaria infected participants. Therefore, biochemical and coagulation profiles and platelet count tests should be used to monitor and manage co-infection related complications and to reduce co-infection associated morbidity and mortality.

Trophic transfer and their impact of microplastics on estuarine food chain model.

Microplastic contamination in marine ecosystems, and its negative effects through trophic transfer among marine organisms, remains a growing concern. Our study investigates the trophic transfer and individual impacts of polystyrene microplastics (MPs) in an estuarine food chain model, comprising Artemia salina as primary organism, Litopenaeus vanamei as secondary organism, and Oreochromis niloticus as tertiary organism. A. salina were exposed to 1 µm polystyrene microplastics (106 particles/ml), further it was fed to L.vannamei, which, in turn, were fed to O.niloticus. MPs transfer was studied over 24 and 48 h. Fluorescence microscopy confirmed MPs presence in the gut and fecal matter of all the test organisms. Histopathology revealed MPs in the gut epithelium, but did not translocate to other tissues of the test species. MPs exposed A.salina had a bioconcentration factor of 0.0029 ± 0.0008 (24 h) and 0.0000941 ± 0.0000721 (48 h). Whereas, the bioaccumulation factor values for L. vanamei were 0.00012143 ± 0.000009 (24 h) and 0.0025899 ± 0.0024101 (48 h), and for O.niloticus were 0.154992 ± 0.007695 (24 h) and 0.00972577 ± 0.00589923 (48 h). Despite low MPs transfer among trophic levels, the induced stress was evident through biochemical responses in all the test species. This implies the potential risk of MPs ultimately reaching humans via the food chain.

A Comparison of Haematological and Biochemical Profiles between Intrauterine Growth Restriction and Normal Piglets at 72 Hours Postpartum.

Intrauterine growth restriction in piglets has been a problem in the pig industry due to genetic selection based on hyperprolificacy. This has led to an increase in the number of underweight piglets and a worsening of the survival rate. The goal of this study was to enhance the knowledge of differences between normal and IUGR piglets a few hours after birth in terms of haematological variables, biochemical parameters, and immunoglobulin levels. Two groups of 20 piglets each were assessed. The control group (N) was made up of piglets with weights greater than 1500 g, and the IUGR group consisted of piglets weighing 500-1000 g and with at least two IUGR features. Blood samples were collected 72 h after birth for analysis of the red and white blood cell parameters, reticulocyte indices, platelet indices, biochemical parameters, and immunoglobulin levels. Alterations in red blood cells and reticulocytes, a lower lymphocyte count, hyperinsulinemia, and high oxidative stress were observed in IUGR piglets (p < 0.05). In contrast, differences were not observed (p > 0.05) in the serum immunoglobulin level. It can be concluded that the haematological and biochemical differences in IUGR piglets with respect to normal-weight piglets are present at birth indicating possible alterations in immunity, metabolism, and redox status; therefore, IUGR piglets could be more vulnerable to illness and future disorders, such as metabolic syndrome.

Perfil de atención de pacientes con errores congénitos del metabolismo en un hospital pediátrico entre 2008 y 2018 / Profile of care of patients with inborn errors of metabolism in a pediatric hospital between 2008 and 2018 / Perfil do atendimento de pacientes com erros inatos do metabolismo em um hospital pediátrico entre 2008 e 2018

Resumen Los errores congénitos del metabolismo (ECM) son un grupo de enfermedades poco frecuentes que generan gran morbimortalidad. El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir el perfil de atención clínico y bioquímico de los ECM no incluidos en la pesquisa neonatal en menores de 15 años atendidos en un hospital pediátrico, entre enero de 2008 y diciembre de 2018. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo en el que se evaluaron los registros hospitalarios: motivo de consulta, diagnóstico, evolución clínica, tiempos y costos diagnósticos de pacientes con sospecha y diagnóstico confirmado de ECM entre 2008 y 2018 en un hospital público pediátrico de Mendoza, Argentina. Se incluyeron 59 pacientes con ECM: enfermedades de depósito lisosomal (32,2%) y alteración metabólica de aminoácidos y acidurias orgánicas (27,1%), entre otros. La edad media fue de 2,6 años y la relación varón/mujer 1,5. La media de tiempo entre la primera consulta por sospecha de ECM y el diagnóstico fue de 11 meses. Hubo correspondencia entre el diagnóstico y el motivo de consulta (p=0,003). El 22% evolucionó al deterioro progresivo, 25,4% permanecieron estables, 28,8% con secuelas y 23,8% fallecieron. El costo directo total de los exámenes bioquímicos fue 61 560 UB=1 809 248 pesos argentinos=46 785 dólares estadounidenses (valor a finales de 2018). En conclusión, este trabajo refleja la variabilidad de los ECM, su evolución clínica, similar a lo publicado y el perfil bioquímico local.

Abstract Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are a group of rare diseases that cause high morbidity and mortality. The objective of the present study was to describe the clinical-biochemical profile of patients, under 15 years old, with IEM not included in newborn screening, in a pediatric hospital, from January 2008 to December 2018. A descriptive and retrospective study was carried out in which hospital records were evaluated: reason for consultation, diagnosis, clinical evolution, diagnostic times and costs of patients with suspected and confirmed diagnosis of IEM between 2008 and 2018 in a public pediatric hospital from Mendoza, Argentina. A total of 59 patients with IEM were evaluated: lysosomal storage diseases (32.2%) and metabolic alteration of amino acids and organic acidurias (27.1%), among others. The mean age was 2.6 years and the male/female ratio was 1.5. The mean time between the first consultation for suspected IEM and diagnosis was 11 months. There was correspondence between the diagnosis and the reason for consultation (p=0.003). Twenty-two percent evolved to progressive deterioration, 25.4% remained stable, 28.8% with sequelae and 23.8% died. The total direct cost of the biochemical tests was 61 560 UB=1 809 248 Argentine pesos=46 785 US dollars (value at the end of 2018). Concluding, this work reflects the variability of IEM and its clinical evolution, similar to what has been published, and the local biochemical profile.

Resumo Os erros inatos do metabolismo (EIM) são um grupo de doenças pouco frequentes que geram alta morbimortalidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever o perfil clínico e bioquímico de atendimento dos EIM não incluídos na triagem neonatal em menores de 15 anos atendidos em um hospital pediátrico, entre janeiro de 2008 e dezembro de 2018. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo e retrospectivo em que foram avaliados os registros hospitalares: motivo da consulta, diagnóstico, evolução clínica, tempos e custos diagnósticos de pacientes com diagnóstico suspeito e confirmado de EIM entre 2008 e 2018 em um hospital pediátrico público em Mendoza, Argentina. Foram avaliados 59 pacientes com EIM: doenças de depósito lisossômico (32,2%) e alteração metabólica de aminoácidos e acidúrias orgânicas (27,1%), entre outras. A média de idade foi de 2,6 anos e a relação homem/mulher foi de 1,5. O tempo médio entre a primeira consulta por suspeita de EIM e o diagnóstico foi de 11 meses. Houve correspondência entre o diagnóstico e o motivo da consulta (p=0,003). Evoluíram 22% para piora progressiva, 25,4% permaneceram estáveis , 28,8% com sequelas e 23,8% faleceram. O custo direto total dos testes bioquímicos foi de 61 560 UB=1 809 248 pesos argentinos=46 785 U$S (valor no final de 2018). Concluindo, este trabalho reflete a variabilidade da EIM e sua evolução clínica, semelhante ao que vem sendo publicado, e o perfil bioquímico local.

Light intensity and spectral quality modulation for improved growth kinetics and biochemical composition of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii.

Effective strategies to optimize algal growth and lipid productivity are critical for the sustainable production of biomass for various applications. Light management has emerged as a promising approach, but the intricate relationship between light intensity, spectral quality, and algal responses remains poorly understood. This study investigated the effects of different light qualities (blue, red-orange, and white-yellow) and intensities (45-305 µmol/m2·s) on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Red-orange light exhibited the highest promotion of biomass growth and lipid productivity, with specific growth rates of 1.968 (d-1) and biomass productivity of 0.284 (g/L/d) at 155 µmol/m2·s and 205 µmol/m2·s, respectively. Within the intensity range of 205 µmol/m2·s to 305 µmol/m2·s, lipid mass fractions ranged from 10.5% w/w to 11.0% w/w, accompanied by lipid concentrations ranging from 68.6 mg/L to 74.9 mg/L. Red-orange light positively influenced carbohydrate accumulation, while blue light promoted protein synthesis. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing light quality and intensity to enhance algal biomass productivity and manipulate biochemical composition. Understanding the complex relationship between light parameters and algal physiology will contribute to sustainable algal cultivation practices and the use of microalgae as a valuable bioresource.

Serum Biochemistry of Greater Rhea (Rhea americana) in Captivity in the Northeast of Brazil.

We investigated the biochemical profile of greater rheas (Rhea americana) in captivity and correlated these values according to the birds' sex. A total of 69 serum samples were collected from a breeding site in Mossoró, northeastern Brazil, and analyzed to quantify serum biochemical parameters (total protein, albumin, cholesterol, calcium, phosphorus, uric acid, urea, creatinine, ALP, AST, and CK). The birds had levels of urea, creatinine, total cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase, calcium, and phosphorus similar to the values reported for ratite and ostrich species. By sex, females showed higher values (p < 0.05) of calcium (3.5 mmol/L), total cholesterol (7.5 mmol/L), and uric acid (435.3 µmol/L) than males, which had 3.1 mmol/L, 3.8 mmol/L, and 390.7 µmol/L, respectively. This can be attributed to the difference in diet, the productive phase of females, or stress at the time of sampling. The data present a wide spectrum of biochemical results regarding the health of greater rheas, contributing to the veterinary clinical practice of this species.

Biochemical Profile and In Vitro Therapeutic Properties of Two Euhalophytes, Halocnemum strobilaceum Pall. and Suaeda fruticosa (L.) Forske., Grown in the Sabkha Ecosystem in the Algerian Sahara.

This study reports the biochemical profile and in vitro biological activities of the aerial part of two shrubs: Halocnemum strobilaceum and Suaeda fruticosa, a halophytes species native to saline habitats. The biomass was evaluated by determining its physiological properties and approximate composition. Hydro-methanolic extracts from Halocnemum strobilaceum and Suaeda fruticosa have been investigated for the inhibition of bacterial growth, the protection of proteins (albumin) from denaturation, and cytotoxicity to hepatocellular carcinomas (Huh-7 and HepG2). Their antioxidant activity was evaluated by five tests, including one that examined their ability to inhibit hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced hemolysis. The profile of their phenolic compounds was also determined. These two euhalophytes had a high moisture content, high levels of photosynthetic pigments, elevated levels of ash and protein, low oxidative damage indices, MDA (Malondialdehyde) and proline, and low lipids levels. Their content was also characterized by a moderate acidity with good electrical conductivity. They contained abundant levels of phytochemicals and varied phenolic contents. Reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis revealed the presence of caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, rutin, and quercetin in both plant extracts. On the pharmaceutical level, the two euhalophytes had anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties, and therefore it was recommended to isolate and identify biologically active compounds from these plants and evaluate them in vivo.

Quercetin as a Dietary Supplementary Flavonoid Alleviates the Oxidative Stress Induced by Lead Toxicity in Male Wistar Rats.

Quercetin is a naturally existing plant pigment belonging to the flavonoid group; it is contained in a wide range of vegetables and fruits. The accumulated evidence points to the potential uses of quercetin in protection of some disease conditions. Lead is one of the highly toxicant heavy metals that are widely spread in the environment and implicated in a wide spectrum of industries. No previous study has been reported to evaluate the effect of quercetin on lead toxicity. Therefore, the present study was conducted to elucidate some aspects of quercetin bioactivities in regard to its ability to combat the oxidative stress induced by lead toxicity. For this purpose, a total of sixty male Wistar rats were randomly and equally divided into three groups of 20 animals each; untreated control animals (group 1), lead-exposed animals (group 2; exposed to lead daily by oral gavage at the dose of 80 mg/Kg b.w.), and group 3 of animals, which were exposed to lead and daily received quercetin (10 h gap time between lead exposure and the receiving of quercetin) by oral gavage at the dose of 350 mg/Kg b.w. The experiment period was 8 weeks. All the assayed hematological and biochemical parameters of animals exposed to lead were significantly altered compared with the untreated control levels. Animals exposed to lead (group 2) exhibited significant decrements of the erythrocytic and total leucocytic counts, hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume percent, total proteins, albumin and globulin. These animals also disclosed significantly decreased levels of antioxidant markers including total thiols, catalase and glutathione. On the other hand, these animals demonstrated significant increments in the levels of bilirubin, urea, creatinine, BUN, serum enzymes, H2O2 and MDA. Animals exposed to lead and given quercetin (group 3) exhibited improvement of these parameters, which were brought back at varying degrees toward the untreated control levels. Basing on the improvements of the assayed hematological and biochemical parameters, it was concluded that quercetin as a dietary supplement can act efficiently as an antioxidant to counteract the oxidative stress induced by lead toxicity and to maintain the oxidant antioxidant balance.

The antioxidant, wound healing properties and proteomic analysis of water extracts from the tropical cyanobacteria, Nostoc NIES-2111_MUM004.

Cyanobacteria bioactive compounds are chemical treasure troves for product discovery and development. The wound healing effects and antioxidant capacities of water extracts from Nostoc NIES-2111_MUM004 were evaluated via in vitro wound scratch assay and three antioxidant assays respectively. Results showed that the water extracts were protein-rich and exhibited good antioxidant properties in ABTS radical scavenging (11.27 ± 0.205 mg TAE g-1 extract), Ferric reducing antioxidant power (1652.71 ± 110.71 mg TAE g-1 extract) and ß-carotene bleaching assay (354.90 ± 31.80 mg TAE g-1 extract). Also, extracts were non-cytotoxic in concentrations up to 250 µg/mL as reflected in cytotoxicity assay. Importantly, water extracts showed considerable proliferation and migration activity at 125 µg/mL with wound closure rate as high as 42.67%. Statistical correlation revealed no significant relationship (p > 0.05) between protein fraction and the wound healing properties, confirming that phycobiliproteins were not solely responsible for wound healing activities. Subsequent Q-TOF-LCMS analysis identified six protein families involved in enhancing the proliferation and migration of epithelial cells. These findings are antecedent in the uncovering of continuous supplies of bioactive compounds from new and sustainable sources. Ultimately, enriching the microalgae menu for applications in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and cosmeceuticals.

Sub-chronic toxicity of the aqueous leaf extract of Ocimum lamiifolium Hochst. ex Benth on biochemical parameters and histopathology of liver and kidney in rats: in vivo and in- silico toxicity studies.

BACKGROUND: The aerial part of Ocimum lamiifolium is commonly used in Ethiopian traditional medicine. Although this plant is mostly used in traditional medicine, its safety profile has not been documented yet. The aim of this study was to assess the sub-chronic toxicity of O. lamiifolium aqueous extract in rats and to determine the toxicity profile of GC-MS identified bioactive compounds obtained from essential oil of O. lamiifolium using in silico toxicity methods. METHODS: Eighty rats (40 male and 40 female) were randomly assigned to four groups of ten rats per sex/group. For 90 days, Groups I-III received 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg bw of aqueous extract of O. lamiifolium, respectively. Distilled water was given to Group IV (control). Clinical observations, food intake, and rat weight were all recorded during the experiment. In addition, several biochemical parameters, organ weight, and histology of the liver and kidney were all evaluated. For the in-silico toxicity study, GC-MS identified bioactive compounds in O. lamiifolium essential oil were obtained from published articles. The compounds two-dimensional structures were constructed using Chemdraw. The two-dimensional structures were converted into a simplified molecular input line entry system (SMILES) using the Swiss ADMET web tool. Furthermore, the toxicity parameters were predicted using the ProTox II server. RESULTS: The administration of an aqueous extract of O. lamiifolium leaves significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the test animals' food intake and body weight gain. In the high dose (600 mg/kg bw) treated group, the serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase levels were significantly increased (p < 0.05). In female rats given 600 mg/kg bw of O. lamiifolium, the levels of serum urea were also increased. In addition, rats given 600 mg/kg bw had significantly lower blood glucose levels than the control group (p < 0.05). Doses up to 400 mg/kg bw didn't bring a significant change to the histology of the liver. However, in the high dose (600 mg/kg bw) treated group, some female rats' livers showed mild sinusoidal and central vein dilatation, as well as parenchymal necrosis. our findings showed that all compounds derived from the essential oil of O. lamiifolium showed no mutagenicity or cytotoxicity. However, 30% of the compounds tested were hepatotoxic, 20% carcinogenic, and 20% immunotoxin. CONCLUSION: Our findings showed that oral administration of O. lamiifoliums aqueous extract up to a dose of 400 mg/kg bw is not toxic. However, high-dose (600 mg/kg bw) significantly affected the food consumption and weight gain of the experimental rats and the serum concentration of some liver and kidney enzymes were also significantly increased. Additionally, a considerable proportion of the tested compounds were predicted to be hepatotoxic, carcinogenic and immunotoxin. Furthermore, before employing O. lamiifolium preparations as drugs, a chronic toxicity research on the essential oil as well as its components that exhibited toxicity in the in-silico toxicity study is needed. Finally, use high doses of O. lamiifolium leaves with caution.

Efficacy of licorice extract on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, blood indices and antioxidants capacity in broilers.

Some studies have suggested that dietary medicinal plants or herbs may have a variety of biological functions such as anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antifungal, antioxidative stress, and anticarcinogenic activities. The present study was undertaken to assess the incorporation of the extract of licorice supplementation on the growth performance, carcass yield, blood indices, and antioxidative capacity in broilers. Three hundred twenty unsexed one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were allocated randomly into four groups. Chicks in each group were randomly subdivided into eight replicates of ten chicks. The first group received a basal diet and was considered a control. The respective groups received a basal diet supplemented with 1, 2, and 3 g licorice extract/kg diet. The obtained results indicated that supplementation of licorice extract to broiler chicks resulted in heavier BW and weight gain and a better feed conversion ratio during the experimental periods compared with the control group. However, feed consumption increased during the entire growing period. Supplementing the broiler's diet with licorice extract led to a higher value of erythrocytes, leukocytes, haemoglobin, plasma total protein, albumin, and antioxidant concentration and a low value in plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, uric acid, urea, and total cholesterol. It could be concluded that the dietary addition of licorice extracts 2 and 3 g licorice extract/kg diet improved broiler chicks' growth performance and physiological status.

Testes bioquímicos para identificação de leveduras na medicina veterinária - revisão de literatura / Biochemical tests to yeast identification in veterinary medicine - literature review / Pruebas bioquímicas para identificación de levaduras en la medicina veterinaria - revisión de literatura

As leveduras são fungos de importância à medicina veterinária por causarem doenças infecciosas em diferentes hospedeiros animais. A presente revisão de literatura teve como objetivo relatar os principais testes bioquímicos capazes de auxiliar na identificação de fungos leveduriformes de interesse veterinário e zoonótico. Para o levantamento bibliográfico, foram consideradas 48 publicações científicas selecionadas na área e indexadas nas principais bases de dados, entre os anos de 1988 e 2020. Como resultados, observou-se que oito provas são as mais empregadas na rotina micológica. Devido à baixa variabilidade morfológica das espécies leveduriformes, testes bioquímicos complementares são fundamentais na rotina laboratorial. A análise do perfil bioquímico de leveduras contribui na determinação taxonômica dos fungos a partir de reações químicas, visto que o metabolismo varia de acordo com a espécie, resultando em metabólitos distintos, os quais podem ser avaliados por diferentes provas. Conclui-se que a identificação fenotípica das leveduras é imprescindível no diagnóstico, prognóstico, tratamento e controle de doenças fúngicas e contribui para a manutenção da saúde animal.(AU)

Yeasts are fungi of importance to veterinary medicine because they cause infectious diseases in different animal hosts. This literature review aimed to report the main biochemical tests capable of assisting in the identification of yeast-like fungi of veterinary and zoonotic interest. For the bibliographical survey, 48 selected scientific publications in the area and indexed in the main databases, between the years 1988 and 2020, were considered. As a result, it was observed that eight tests are the most used in the mycological routine. Due to the low morphological variability of yeast species, complementary biochemical tests are fundamental in the laboratory routine. The analysis of the biochemical profile of yeast contributes to the taxonomic determination of fungi based on chemical reactions, since the metabolism varies according to the species, resulting in different metabolites, which can be evaluated by different tests. It is concluded that the phenotypic identification of yeasts is essential in the diagnosis, prognosis, treatment and control of fungal diseases and contributes to the maintenance of animal health.(AU)

Las levaduras son hongos de importancia para la medicina veterinaria porque causan enfermedades infecciosas en diferentes animales huéspedes. Esta revisión de la literatura tuvo como objetivo informar las principales pruebas bioquímicas capaces de ayudar en la identificación de hongos tipo levadura de interés veterinario y zoonótico. Para el levantamiento bibliográfico se consideraron 48 publicaciones científicas seleccionadas en el área e indexadas en las principales bases de datos, entre los años 1988 y 2020. Como resultado se observó que ocho pruebas son las más utilizadas en la rutina micológica. Debido a la baja variabilidad morfológica de las especies de levaduras, las pruebas bioquímicas complementarias son fundamentales en la rutina del laboratorio. El análisis del perfil bioquímico de la levadura contribuye a la determinación taxonómica de los hongos en base a reacciones químicas, ya que el metabolismo varía según la especie, dando como resultado diferentes metabolitos, los cuales pueden ser evaluados mediante diferentes pruebas. Se concluye que la identificación fenotípica de levaduras es fundamental en el diagnóstico, pronóstico, tratamiento y control de enfermedades fúngicas y contribuye al mantenimiento de la salud animal.(AU)

Dietary inclusion of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) seed meal on the haematological and serum biochemical response of rams in southwestern Nigeria.

This study was carried out to determine the haematological and serum biochemical effect of rams fed graded levels of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) seed meal. In a 77-days feeding trial, sixteen west African dwarf rams, of 12 months old, were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments (4 animals per each), with different inclusion levels of kenaf seed meal as replacement with sorghum glume and cassava pulp, at 0 (K0), 15 (K15), 35 (K35) and 55 (K55) % respectively. Each animal was fed 5% of its body weight/head/day of the experimental diets and elephant grass with clean drinking water ad libitum. Two animals from each treatment were randomly selected and blood samples collected aseptically, via the jugular puncture for haematological and biochemical evaluation, at the termination of the experiment. The analysis of blood components at the end of the feeding trial revealed that packed cell volume, white blood cell and haemoglobin showed significant (P < 0.05) differences among the rams with packed cell volume, white blood cell, while the haemoglobin was significantly decreased in K55 (27.00%, 3200 × 103 µL and 8.95 g/dL respectively) than in K0, K15 and K35. There were also significant (P < 0.05) differences in all the serum biochemical analysis except in the albumin. It was concluded that kenaf seed meal can be inculcated in the diet of rams up to 35% without any deleterious effect on their haematology and serum biochemical characteristics. Feeding of kenaf seed meal above 35% inclusion level resulted in negative alteration of the white blood cells which could lead to the loss of their protective system, thereby preventing rapid and potent defence against infectious diseases.

Benincasa hispida extracts positively regulated high salt-induced hypertension in Dahl salt-sensitive rats: Impact on biochemical profile and metabolic patterns.

Salt-induced hypertension is one of the major issues worldwide and one of the main factors involved in heart and kidney failure. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential role of Benincasa hispida extracts on high salt-induced hypertension in Dahl-salt sensitive (D-SS) rats and to find out the metabolic and biochemical pattern involved in the reduction of hypertension. Twenty-six Dahl salt-sensitive (D-SS) rats were selected and divided into four groups. The metabolic strategy was applied to test the extracts on salt-sensitive hypertension in kidney. Gas Chromatography-Mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify the potent biochemical profile in renal medulla and cortex of rat kidneys. The differential metabolites of cortex and medulla, enrichment analysis and pathway analysis were performed using metabolomics data. The GC-MS data revealed that 24 different antihypertensive metabolites was detected in renal cortex, while 16 were detected in renal medulla between different groups. The significantly metabolic pathways namely citrate cycle, glutathione metabolism, glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism in renal cortex and glycerolipid metabolism, pentose phosphate pathway, citrate cycle, glycolysis, glycerophospholipid metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis in renal medulla were involved in the process of Hypertension. The results suggest that the extract mainly alter the metabolic pathways of amino acid in Dahl salt-sensitive rats and its antioxidant potential reduced the hypertension patterns of Salt-sensitive rat. The antihypertensive components malic acid, aspartic acid, and glycine of extract can be used as therapeutic drugs to protect kidneys from salt-induced hypertension. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Hypertension is a multifactorial disease and one of the risk factors for heart and kidney failure. Benincasa hispida is a widely used vegetable in China, which belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. Benincasa hispida (wax gourd) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of inflammation and hypertension. The Benincasa hispida contains many compounds such as amino acids, carbohydrates, volatile compounds, vitamins, and minerals. The amino acid present in the pulp of Benincasa hispida are ornithine, threonine, aspartate, glutamate, serine, glycine, proline, alanine, valine, cysteine, isoleucine, tyrosine, leucine, lysine, phenylalanine, histidine, arginine, and γ-aminobutyric acid. Our results showed that Benincasa hispida is one of the potent natural antioxidants and can maintain normal blood pressure in Dahl salt-sensitive rats (D-SS). In conclusion, the current results provide good theoretical basis for the development and research using Benincasa hispida as an effective natural antioxidant for hypertension.

Measuring Biochemical Variables and Serum Amyloid A (SAA) in Working Mules in Central Italy.

According to FAO reports, the global mule population counts about 9 million mules. This hybrid cross of a male donkey and a female horse is mainly used for draft purposes because they are thought to be strong and hardy animals. Most consider mules to be less susceptible to disease and fatigue compared to horses. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of fieldwork on biochemical variables and serum amyloid A in working mules. Blood samples were collected from 10 healthy, female, working mules before and after 8 h of fieldwork. According to statistical analysis, a significant influence (p < 0.05) of fieldwork was found on mules' electrolyte profile with increased levels of sodium, chloride, and calcium, as well as on blood urea nitrogen and creatinine. After a day of fieldwork, serum sodium, chloride, calcium, urea, and creatinine concentrations were increased, supporting decreases in body water and renal blood flow. However, without comparison to a group of mules that were not exercised yet maintained under similar ambient conditions, it is uncertain whether these changes can be attributed to exercise. Further, no change in SAA concentration was found after exercise, indicating that the work performed did not result in systemic inflammation.

Growth ability, carbon source utilization and biochemical features of the new specie Zalaria obscura.

This research investigated the characteristics of Zalaria obscura LS31012019 in terms of growth ability in different media (SDB, YPD and TSB) and temperatures (22, 25 and 37 °C), utilization of several carbon sources (Glucose, Fructose, Lactose, Sucrose, Xylose, Glycerol and Mannitol at 5, 2 and 1%) and several biochemical features (total protein content, Glutathione, pigments), in comparison with those of the phylogenetically related Aureobasidium pullulans ATCC 15233. The best growth of Z. obscura LS31012019 was obtained in YPD at 25 °C with the highest OD value (0.45) after 144 h of incubation, similar to that of A. pullulans ATCC 15233 (0.48). Glucose resulted the preferred carbon source for both the considered yeasts but also sucrose resulted in efficacy supporting the growth of Z. obscura LS31012019 and A. pullulans ATCC 15233, for their ability in converting sucrose to glucose and fructose and the latter into glucose. Interestingly, Z. obscura LS31012019 utilized also glycerol and mannitol. The biochemical analysis showed the similarity of protein profile in Z. obscura LS31012019 and A. pullulans ATCC 15233 (from 90 to 20 kDa) and a reduced GSH content (0.321 and 0.233 µmol/mg). The pigments extraction with hexane generated a yellow oleaginous pellet in both the strains, while a yellow solid matrix more intensely coloured in A. pullulans ATTC 15233 was visible with the following solvent extractions. Overall, our data showed that Z. obscura LS31012019 can grow in different media and temperatures and utilize carbon sources apart from glucose and sucrose, shifting to a non-fermentative metabolism. These results improve the information regarding the characteristics of Z. obscura, opening a new field of investigation for the possible application of new species of black yeasts in human application.