Gli Autori studiano gli effetti dell’alta densità di allevamento sul profilo ematologico e sui te... more Gli Autori studiano gli effetti dell’alta densità di allevamento sul profilo ematologico e sui tessuti del cefalo (Mugil cephalus). A tale scopo sono stati utilizzati 50 pesci catturati nel lago di Faro a Messina. Tutti i soggetti sono stati suddivisi in 2 gruppi : gruppo controllo (n=15), stabulati ad una densità di 3.4 kg/m3 (bassa densità) in una vasca di 800 litri e un gruppo sperimentale (n=35), stabulato ad una densità di 8.4 kg/m3 (alta densità) sempre in vasca di 800 litri. Dopo un periodo di 2 settimane, nella vasca del gruppo controllo è stata valutata la concentrazione di ammoniaca i cui valori hanno raggiunto 0.3 mg/l, mentre nella vasca del gruppo sperimentale la concentrazione di ammoniaca ha raggiunto valori di 5 mg/l. Su tutti i soggetti, al termine del periodo sperimentale è stato effettuato il prelievo di sangue dalla vena caudale. I campioni di sangue sono stati suddivisi in due aliquote in due differenti provette: Miniplast 0.5 ml (LP Italiana Spa, Milano) conten...
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of shearing on physiological and oxidativ... more The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of shearing on physiological and oxidative stress parameters in ewes. Twenty Comisana ewes were used and divided into two groups. Ten ewes were left unshorn as a control group (Group A) and 10 ewes were shorn (Group B). All measurements were taken before and after shearing, and repeated 8 h after shearing and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10 and 15 days after shearing. Reactive oxygen species (dROMs), antioxidant barrier (oxy-adsorbent), thiol antioxidant barrier (SHp) and packed cell volume (PCV) were assessed in blood samples collected by means of jugular venipuncture. Rectal temperature (RT), respiratory rate (RR) and heart rate (HR) were also measured. Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Bonferroni's test, was used for the assessment of significant effects due to shearing and time. The statistical analysis showed significant increases (P < 0.01) of dROMs, oxy-adsorbent, SHp, and a significant decrease (P < 0.01) of RT and RR associated with time and shearing. Our results indicate that shearing causes a change in the ewe's homeostatic balance that leads to oxidative stress.
In this study an incremental load triangular exercise test has been performed on 20 Gallopers, di... more In this study an incremental load triangular exercise test has been performed on 20 Gallopers, divided into two groups, A and B, and the test has been customised to the two groups according to age and sex. The subjects being tested, after a 10 minutes warm-up, have undergone an incremental three workloads exercise test. All steps lasted for three minutes and were separated by 1 minute intervals (incremental loads triangular exercise test). The workload for each phase of the test has been set as follows: group A, speed of 400, 500 and 600 m/min over a distance of 1 200, 1 500 and 1 800 m; group B, speed of 500, 600 and 700 m/min over a distance of 1 500, 1 800 and 2 100 m. Each horse had a heart rate monitor for the assessment of the heart rate mean value at each phase. At rest, after warm up, and at the end of each phase, 30 and 45 minutes after the end of the test, all subjects underwent a blood test by means of an external jugular venipuncture for the immediate assessment of lacta...
We want to study the circadian rhythm of dROMs and anti-oxidative power in dairy cattle during dr... more We want to study the circadian rhythm of dROMs and anti-oxidative power in dairy cattle during dry period and the possible involvement of the circadian organization of rest/activity cycles in the fluctua - tion of redox state. For this purpose we recorded TLA in five clinically healthy Bruna Italian dairy cattle by means of an actigraphy-based data logger, Actiwatch-Mini ® . Blood samples were collected every 3 hours over a 48-hour period for the assessment of free radicals (dROMs) and the antioxidant power: antioxidant barrier (Oxy-ads) and thiol-antioxidant barrier (SHp). All animals were in the same productive period (dry) and they were housed in the same stable under natural photoperiod and ambient temperature. One-way repeated measure ANOVA was used to determine a statistical significant effect of time on the studied parameters. A trigonometric statistical model was applied to characterize the main rhythmic parameters according to the single cosinor procedure. A significant eff...
ABSTRACT Keeping and management of horses can induce changes to instinctive and innate behavioura... more ABSTRACT Keeping and management of horses can induce changes to instinctive and innate behavioural patterns. We investigated the effect of five different management conditions in five groups of horses. All groups were housed in individual boxes under natural environmental and lighting conditions. They were fed three times a day (07:00, 12:30 and 20:00) and had free access to water. Group A was fed with 8 kg/capo/die of hay divided in the three meals. Group B was fed with 8 kg/capo/die of an unifeed divided in the three meals. Group C was fed with unifeed at 07:00 and 12:30 and with hay at 20:00. They were kept in wood-bedded boxes. Groups D and E were fed with unifeed at 07:00 and 12:30, respectively, and in the other, two meals received hay. They were kept in straw-bedded boxes. Our results showed a daily rhythm of total locomotor activity in all groups, influenced by management conditions. Group A engaged in meal patterns similar to those seen in grazing animals. Groups B and C showed the highest MESOR values due to a high searching behaviour. Group C showed a nocturnal acrophase contrary to the other groups. Groups D and E showed a total locomotor activity pattern similar to that observed in Group A probably due to an increase in straw-bedding consuming. The reduction of fibre in diet has an impact on physiology and behaviour of horses. The valuation of diet and in bedding provided to horses kept in box is useful to guarantee the maintenance of the physiological daily rhythm of total locomotor activity.
ABSTRACT The importance of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) within the different biological fu... more ABSTRACT The importance of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) within the different biological functions of animals has been widely recognized. In this study, exercise and PUFAs supplementation effects on serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) concentration were evaluated in athletic horses. Two sport horse types (10 Italian saddle jumpers and 10 Thoroughbreds) were equally divided into two groups. Jumpers and Thoroughbred experimental groups (A(J) and A(T)) received 4-week PUFAs supplementation and control groups (B-J and B-T) received no dietary supplement. Before starting the PUFAs supplementation (T0) and at the end of the experimental period (T4), horses were subjected to simulated events. From each subject, blood samples were collected every 7 days at rest, before and after the first test (T0(R) and T0(PE)), and before and after the second test (T4(R) and T4(PE)). Higher triglycerides and NEFA concentrations at T0(PE) and T4(PE) than T0(R) and T4R in both groups were found as a result of exercise (P <. 005), but lower triglycerides and NEFA concentrations at T4(PE) in group A(J) than group B-J (P < .05) and in group A(T) (P < .005) than group B-T were found as a result of PUFAs supplementation. Effects of PUFAs supplementation was highlighted by the statistically significant lower triglycerides and NEFA concentrations found at T4(PE) than T0(PE) in groups A(J) (P < .05) and A(T) (triglycerides: P < .05; NEFAs: P < .0001).
The aim of the present work was to evaluate the influence of exercise on serum homocysteine and o... more The aim of the present work was to evaluate the influence of exercise on serum homocysteine and oxidative stress in Thoroughbreds during official races. For our study, ten Thoroughbred mares, 5 years old and clinically healthy, were used. The horses were trained to take part in an official 2100 meter race. Reactive oxygen species (dROMs), antioxidant barrier (Oxy-adsorbent), thiol antioxidant barrier (SHp) and homocysteine (sHcy) were investigated. Blood samples, collected from each horse at rest, immediately after the race, and 30 and 180 min after the end of the race, were collected by jugular venipuncture using vacutainer tubes with no additive for the assessment of dROMs, Oxy-adsorbent and SHp by means of a UV spectrophotometer, while serum total Hcy values were determined by high performance liquid chromatography with fluorimetric detection and isocratic elution. Statistical analysis, one way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Bonferroni's test, sho...
Industrialized nations are currently experiencing an obesity epidemic, the causes of which are no... more Industrialized nations are currently experiencing an obesity epidemic, the causes of which are not fully known. One possible mechanism of enhanced energy efficiency that has received almost no attention is a reduction in the metabolic cost of homeothermy, which could be achieved by a modest lowering of body core temperature. We evaluated the potential of this obesity-inducing mechanism in a canine model of the metabolic syndrome. We compared the rectal temperature of lean dogs and obese dogs by (a) conducting cross-sectional measurements in 287 dogs of many breeds varying greatly in body size, (b) conducting longitudinal measurements in individual dogs over 7-10 years and (c) tracking rectal temperature of lean and obese dogs at 3-h intervals for 48 consecutive hours in the laboratory. We found that larger dogs have lower rectal temperatures than smaller dogs and that, for the same body mass, obese dogs have lower rectal temperatures than lean dogs. The results were consistent in th...
BACKGROUND: The serotonergic system is associated with numerous brain functions, including the re... more BACKGROUND: The serotonergic system is associated with numerous brain functions, including the resetting of the mammalian circadian clock. The synthesis and metabolism of 5-HT in the brain increases in response to exercise and is correlated with high levels of blood-borne tryptophan (TRP). The present investigation was aimed at testing the existence of a daily rhythm of TRP and 5-HT in the blood of athletic horses. METHODS: Blood samples from 5 Thoroughbred mares were collected at 4-hour intervals for 48 hours (starting at 08:00 hours on day 1 and finishing at 4:00 on day 2) via an intravenous cannula inserted into the jugular vein. Tryptophan and serotonin concentrations were assessed by HPLC. Data analysis was conducted by one-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and by the single cosinor method. RESULTS: ANOVA showed a highly significant influence of time both on tryptophan and on serotonin, in all horses, on either day, with p values < 0.0001. Cosinor analysis i...
The aim of the study was to assess changes in some haematological parameters of periparturient ma... more The aim of the study was to assess changes in some haematological parameters of periparturient mares from the last three months of pregnancy until the third week after foaling. The study was carried out on 15 healthy pregnant mares (Group A) and 7 healthy non-pregnant non-lactating mares (Group B). Blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture into EDTA tubes and tested for Haematocrit (Hct), Red Blood Cell (RBC), Haemoglobin (Hb), Platelets (Plt) and White Blood Cell (WBC). Peripheral blood smears were also performed to assess changes in the leucocyte differential count. Group A showed a progressive reduction in Hct and Hb levels over the experimental period, whereas Plt and WBC (P<0.05) peaked at parturition. Among WBC, neutrophils increased until parturition when lymphocytes reached the lowest values. The statistical analysis also revealed significant interactions time × pregnancy on Hb (P<0.001), WBC (P<0.001), neutrophils (P<0.001) and lymphocytes (P<0.001...
Daily rhythmicity of physiological processes has been described for numerous variables in numerou... more Daily rhythmicity of physiological processes has been described for numerous variables in numerous species. A major source of this rhythmicity is a circadian pacemaker located in the mammalian hypothalamus, but very little is known about how the pacemaker generates the multiplicity of bodily rhythms. Research on rats has shown that the rhythm of blood glucose concentration is not a mere consequence of the rhythm of food ingestion, but is rather generated directly by the pacemaker. In this study, we investigated the rhythm of blood glucose concentration in four different species of domestic animals under four different feeding regimes. Our results suggest that, as in rats, the rhythm of blood glucose concentration is not a mere consequence of the rhythm of food ingestion in sheep and cattle. In dogs and horses, however, the rhythmicity of blood glucose concentration seems to be contingent on the presence of a feeding regime.
Hemostasis is a physiological process that prevents excessive blood loss and represents a protect... more Hemostasis is a physiological process that prevents excessive blood loss and represents a protective mechanism at the time of delivery. Peripartum hemorrhage is a recurring hazardous condition to mare&#39;s health; therefore, we aimed to study mares&#39; hemostatic profile to investigate whether physiological adjustments occur during late pregnancy and early postpartum. Fifteen pregnant mares have been monitored from the 34th week of pregnancy until the third week after foaling. Fifteen nonpregnant mares were used as control group. Jugular blood samples were analyzed for platelet count (Plt), prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and fibrinogen (Fb). Platelet count showed significant changes at foaling (P &lt; 0.05) and a negative correlation (r = -0.968; P = 0.032) with postpartum. Prothrombin time changed (P &lt; 0.05) showing a significant correlation (r = 0.675; P = 0.016) with late pregnancy. Fibrinogen concentrations changed throughout the experimental period (P &lt; 0.0001). The linear regression model revealed a positive correlation (r = 0.9210; P &lt; 0.0001) between Fb and late pregnancy and a negative correlation (r = -0.9583; P = 0.042) between Fb and early postpartum. The shortening in PT recorded in the imminence of parturition along with the increase in Plt and Fb at foaling might reflect a physiological hypercoagulable state that constrains excessive bleeding, enhancing mares&#39; odds of surviving. Our research improves the knowledge about blood coagulation in periparturient mares providing specific information on routine coagulation tests that may support in monitoring mare&#39;s hemostatic profile during late pregnancy and early postpartum.
ABSTRACT This study evaluated the biological effects of high stocking density on mullet (Mugil ce... more ABSTRACT This study evaluated the biological effects of high stocking density on mullet (Mugil cephalus). Fifty fish, caught from Faro lake, were divided into two groups, a low-density control group (n = 15), stocked at 3.4 kg/m3 in an 800 l tank and a high-density experimental group (n = 35), stocked at 8.4 kg/m3 an 800 l tank. The ammonia concentration in the control group tank reached 0.3 mg/l after 2 days while that in the experimental tank reached 5 mg/l. Haematological parameters and serum protein profiles were determined following blood sampling. An Unpaired T-test showed significant differences between the two groups on Red Blood Cell Count, Haematocrit, Haemoglobin, White Blood Cell Count, Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin, Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration, total proteins, albumin and α-globulins. In the experimental group, the disappearance of prealbumin and the γ-globulin fraction was particularly evident. Histopathological changes indicated that mucosal electrolytic failure was the main function compromised. This could eventually lead to death. The findings suggest that mullet is sensitive to stocking density linked to ammonia toxicosis.
ABSTRACT The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by aquatic organisms in response to stre... more ABSTRACT The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by aquatic organisms in response to stressful factor is a common feature in aquatic environment. Thus, the evaluation of parameters related to oxidative stress in fish, in first instance those showing the redox potential, is notable to characterize the environmental conditions. Short-term storage of samples is essential when blood must be transported from collection sites to laboratories. Therefore, excessive delays in processing might compromise the reliability of results. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of short-term storage time at +4 °C on total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and oxidative stress index (OSI) in flathead mullet (Mugil cephalus) serum. After blood collection, all sample were analyzed and the assays were repeated after 24, 48 and 72 h from sampling. results showed a significant effect of short-term storage on TOS and TAC (P ≤ 0.0001), while the statistical significance of the linear regression study for these parameters was reduced as consequence of storage. These results highlight that the activities of oxidants and antioxidants in flathead mullet serum change during short-term storage at 4 °C and should be assesses as soon as possible from collection.
This paper describes circatrigintan progress of some electrocardiographic pa- rameters and of the... more This paper describes circatrigintan progress of some electrocardiographic pa- rameters and of the serum electrolytes in the jumper horse during a period of pre-competi- tive training performed in order to define the temporal organization of some parameters employed to evaluate the athletic performance of the horse. Five Sella Italiana horses, clinically healthy and specifically trained have been utilized for the
Pregnancy represents a specific physiological status characterized by continuous adjustments that... more Pregnancy represents a specific physiological status characterized by continuous adjustments that affect maternal metabolism of all nutrients. In the last trimester of pregnancy, mare&#39;s nutrient requirements greatly increase and most pregnancy-associated diseases are likely to occur. Therefore, we aimed to assess the metabolic profile of broodmares focusing on the last 3 months of pregnancy and the early post-partum. Fifteen pregnant mares (Group A) were monitored from 263 ± 3 days of pregnancy until 21 days after foaling. Seven non-pregnant mares (Group B) were used as the control group. Blood samples were collected weekly by jugular venipuncture throughout the experimental period, and additional blood samples were collected within 24 ± 12 h of foaling. Obtained sera were analyzed for urea (Ur), creatinine (Cre), total protein (TP), total, direct and indirect bilirubin (tB, dB, iB), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (tChol) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB). During pregnancy, Ur (p = 0.015) and dB (p = 0.028) were higher in Group A than Group B. Serum Cre, tB, iB and TG (p &lt; 0.001) decreased after foaling; furthermore, Group A exhibited lower tChol (p &lt; 0.001) and higher BHB (p &lt; 0.001) than Group B during the study. There were significant interactions of time × peripartum on Ur (p = 0.007), Cre (p &lt; 0.001), tB (p = 0.018), TG (p &lt; 0.001) and tChol (p &lt; 0.001). These results can be used in the interpretation of biochemical studies in late gestation mares which develop systemic disease. The improved understanding of the metabolic profile during the peripartum might assist in monitoring the health status of the broodmares to promote foetal growth and well-being.
Gli Autori studiano gli effetti dell’alta densità di allevamento sul profilo ematologico e sui te... more Gli Autori studiano gli effetti dell’alta densità di allevamento sul profilo ematologico e sui tessuti del cefalo (Mugil cephalus). A tale scopo sono stati utilizzati 50 pesci catturati nel lago di Faro a Messina. Tutti i soggetti sono stati suddivisi in 2 gruppi : gruppo controllo (n=15), stabulati ad una densità di 3.4 kg/m3 (bassa densità) in una vasca di 800 litri e un gruppo sperimentale (n=35), stabulato ad una densità di 8.4 kg/m3 (alta densità) sempre in vasca di 800 litri. Dopo un periodo di 2 settimane, nella vasca del gruppo controllo è stata valutata la concentrazione di ammoniaca i cui valori hanno raggiunto 0.3 mg/l, mentre nella vasca del gruppo sperimentale la concentrazione di ammoniaca ha raggiunto valori di 5 mg/l. Su tutti i soggetti, al termine del periodo sperimentale è stato effettuato il prelievo di sangue dalla vena caudale. I campioni di sangue sono stati suddivisi in due aliquote in due differenti provette: Miniplast 0.5 ml (LP Italiana Spa, Milano) conten...
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of shearing on physiological and oxidativ... more The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of shearing on physiological and oxidative stress parameters in ewes. Twenty Comisana ewes were used and divided into two groups. Ten ewes were left unshorn as a control group (Group A) and 10 ewes were shorn (Group B). All measurements were taken before and after shearing, and repeated 8 h after shearing and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10 and 15 days after shearing. Reactive oxygen species (dROMs), antioxidant barrier (oxy-adsorbent), thiol antioxidant barrier (SHp) and packed cell volume (PCV) were assessed in blood samples collected by means of jugular venipuncture. Rectal temperature (RT), respiratory rate (RR) and heart rate (HR) were also measured. Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Bonferroni&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s test, was used for the assessment of significant effects due to shearing and time. The statistical analysis showed significant increases (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.01) of dROMs, oxy-adsorbent, SHp, and a significant decrease (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.01) of RT and RR associated with time and shearing. Our results indicate that shearing causes a change in the ewe&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s homeostatic balance that leads to oxidative stress.
In this study an incremental load triangular exercise test has been performed on 20 Gallopers, di... more In this study an incremental load triangular exercise test has been performed on 20 Gallopers, divided into two groups, A and B, and the test has been customised to the two groups according to age and sex. The subjects being tested, after a 10 minutes warm-up, have undergone an incremental three workloads exercise test. All steps lasted for three minutes and were separated by 1 minute intervals (incremental loads triangular exercise test). The workload for each phase of the test has been set as follows: group A, speed of 400, 500 and 600 m/min over a distance of 1 200, 1 500 and 1 800 m; group B, speed of 500, 600 and 700 m/min over a distance of 1 500, 1 800 and 2 100 m. Each horse had a heart rate monitor for the assessment of the heart rate mean value at each phase. At rest, after warm up, and at the end of each phase, 30 and 45 minutes after the end of the test, all subjects underwent a blood test by means of an external jugular venipuncture for the immediate assessment of lacta...
We want to study the circadian rhythm of dROMs and anti-oxidative power in dairy cattle during dr... more We want to study the circadian rhythm of dROMs and anti-oxidative power in dairy cattle during dry period and the possible involvement of the circadian organization of rest/activity cycles in the fluctua - tion of redox state. For this purpose we recorded TLA in five clinically healthy Bruna Italian dairy cattle by means of an actigraphy-based data logger, Actiwatch-Mini ® . Blood samples were collected every 3 hours over a 48-hour period for the assessment of free radicals (dROMs) and the antioxidant power: antioxidant barrier (Oxy-ads) and thiol-antioxidant barrier (SHp). All animals were in the same productive period (dry) and they were housed in the same stable under natural photoperiod and ambient temperature. One-way repeated measure ANOVA was used to determine a statistical significant effect of time on the studied parameters. A trigonometric statistical model was applied to characterize the main rhythmic parameters according to the single cosinor procedure. A significant eff...
ABSTRACT Keeping and management of horses can induce changes to instinctive and innate behavioura... more ABSTRACT Keeping and management of horses can induce changes to instinctive and innate behavioural patterns. We investigated the effect of five different management conditions in five groups of horses. All groups were housed in individual boxes under natural environmental and lighting conditions. They were fed three times a day (07:00, 12:30 and 20:00) and had free access to water. Group A was fed with 8 kg/capo/die of hay divided in the three meals. Group B was fed with 8 kg/capo/die of an unifeed divided in the three meals. Group C was fed with unifeed at 07:00 and 12:30 and with hay at 20:00. They were kept in wood-bedded boxes. Groups D and E were fed with unifeed at 07:00 and 12:30, respectively, and in the other, two meals received hay. They were kept in straw-bedded boxes. Our results showed a daily rhythm of total locomotor activity in all groups, influenced by management conditions. Group A engaged in meal patterns similar to those seen in grazing animals. Groups B and C showed the highest MESOR values due to a high searching behaviour. Group C showed a nocturnal acrophase contrary to the other groups. Groups D and E showed a total locomotor activity pattern similar to that observed in Group A probably due to an increase in straw-bedding consuming. The reduction of fibre in diet has an impact on physiology and behaviour of horses. The valuation of diet and in bedding provided to horses kept in box is useful to guarantee the maintenance of the physiological daily rhythm of total locomotor activity.
ABSTRACT The importance of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) within the different biological fu... more ABSTRACT The importance of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) within the different biological functions of animals has been widely recognized. In this study, exercise and PUFAs supplementation effects on serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) concentration were evaluated in athletic horses. Two sport horse types (10 Italian saddle jumpers and 10 Thoroughbreds) were equally divided into two groups. Jumpers and Thoroughbred experimental groups (A(J) and A(T)) received 4-week PUFAs supplementation and control groups (B-J and B-T) received no dietary supplement. Before starting the PUFAs supplementation (T0) and at the end of the experimental period (T4), horses were subjected to simulated events. From each subject, blood samples were collected every 7 days at rest, before and after the first test (T0(R) and T0(PE)), and before and after the second test (T4(R) and T4(PE)). Higher triglycerides and NEFA concentrations at T0(PE) and T4(PE) than T0(R) and T4R in both groups were found as a result of exercise (P &lt;. 005), but lower triglycerides and NEFA concentrations at T4(PE) in group A(J) than group B-J (P &lt; .05) and in group A(T) (P &lt; .005) than group B-T were found as a result of PUFAs supplementation. Effects of PUFAs supplementation was highlighted by the statistically significant lower triglycerides and NEFA concentrations found at T4(PE) than T0(PE) in groups A(J) (P &lt; .05) and A(T) (triglycerides: P &lt; .05; NEFAs: P &lt; .0001).
The aim of the present work was to evaluate the influence of exercise on serum homocysteine and o... more The aim of the present work was to evaluate the influence of exercise on serum homocysteine and oxidative stress in Thoroughbreds during official races. For our study, ten Thoroughbred mares, 5 years old and clinically healthy, were used. The horses were trained to take part in an official 2100 meter race. Reactive oxygen species (dROMs), antioxidant barrier (Oxy-adsorbent), thiol antioxidant barrier (SHp) and homocysteine (sHcy) were investigated. Blood samples, collected from each horse at rest, immediately after the race, and 30 and 180 min after the end of the race, were collected by jugular venipuncture using vacutainer tubes with no additive for the assessment of dROMs, Oxy-adsorbent and SHp by means of a UV spectrophotometer, while serum total Hcy values were determined by high performance liquid chromatography with fluorimetric detection and isocratic elution. Statistical analysis, one way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Bonferroni's test, sho...
Industrialized nations are currently experiencing an obesity epidemic, the causes of which are no... more Industrialized nations are currently experiencing an obesity epidemic, the causes of which are not fully known. One possible mechanism of enhanced energy efficiency that has received almost no attention is a reduction in the metabolic cost of homeothermy, which could be achieved by a modest lowering of body core temperature. We evaluated the potential of this obesity-inducing mechanism in a canine model of the metabolic syndrome. We compared the rectal temperature of lean dogs and obese dogs by (a) conducting cross-sectional measurements in 287 dogs of many breeds varying greatly in body size, (b) conducting longitudinal measurements in individual dogs over 7-10 years and (c) tracking rectal temperature of lean and obese dogs at 3-h intervals for 48 consecutive hours in the laboratory. We found that larger dogs have lower rectal temperatures than smaller dogs and that, for the same body mass, obese dogs have lower rectal temperatures than lean dogs. The results were consistent in th...
BACKGROUND: The serotonergic system is associated with numerous brain functions, including the re... more BACKGROUND: The serotonergic system is associated with numerous brain functions, including the resetting of the mammalian circadian clock. The synthesis and metabolism of 5-HT in the brain increases in response to exercise and is correlated with high levels of blood-borne tryptophan (TRP). The present investigation was aimed at testing the existence of a daily rhythm of TRP and 5-HT in the blood of athletic horses. METHODS: Blood samples from 5 Thoroughbred mares were collected at 4-hour intervals for 48 hours (starting at 08:00 hours on day 1 and finishing at 4:00 on day 2) via an intravenous cannula inserted into the jugular vein. Tryptophan and serotonin concentrations were assessed by HPLC. Data analysis was conducted by one-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and by the single cosinor method. RESULTS: ANOVA showed a highly significant influence of time both on tryptophan and on serotonin, in all horses, on either day, with p values < 0.0001. Cosinor analysis i...
The aim of the study was to assess changes in some haematological parameters of periparturient ma... more The aim of the study was to assess changes in some haematological parameters of periparturient mares from the last three months of pregnancy until the third week after foaling. The study was carried out on 15 healthy pregnant mares (Group A) and 7 healthy non-pregnant non-lactating mares (Group B). Blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture into EDTA tubes and tested for Haematocrit (Hct), Red Blood Cell (RBC), Haemoglobin (Hb), Platelets (Plt) and White Blood Cell (WBC). Peripheral blood smears were also performed to assess changes in the leucocyte differential count. Group A showed a progressive reduction in Hct and Hb levels over the experimental period, whereas Plt and WBC (P<0.05) peaked at parturition. Among WBC, neutrophils increased until parturition when lymphocytes reached the lowest values. The statistical analysis also revealed significant interactions time × pregnancy on Hb (P<0.001), WBC (P<0.001), neutrophils (P<0.001) and lymphocytes (P<0.001...
Daily rhythmicity of physiological processes has been described for numerous variables in numerou... more Daily rhythmicity of physiological processes has been described for numerous variables in numerous species. A major source of this rhythmicity is a circadian pacemaker located in the mammalian hypothalamus, but very little is known about how the pacemaker generates the multiplicity of bodily rhythms. Research on rats has shown that the rhythm of blood glucose concentration is not a mere consequence of the rhythm of food ingestion, but is rather generated directly by the pacemaker. In this study, we investigated the rhythm of blood glucose concentration in four different species of domestic animals under four different feeding regimes. Our results suggest that, as in rats, the rhythm of blood glucose concentration is not a mere consequence of the rhythm of food ingestion in sheep and cattle. In dogs and horses, however, the rhythmicity of blood glucose concentration seems to be contingent on the presence of a feeding regime.
Hemostasis is a physiological process that prevents excessive blood loss and represents a protect... more Hemostasis is a physiological process that prevents excessive blood loss and represents a protective mechanism at the time of delivery. Peripartum hemorrhage is a recurring hazardous condition to mare&#39;s health; therefore, we aimed to study mares&#39; hemostatic profile to investigate whether physiological adjustments occur during late pregnancy and early postpartum. Fifteen pregnant mares have been monitored from the 34th week of pregnancy until the third week after foaling. Fifteen nonpregnant mares were used as control group. Jugular blood samples were analyzed for platelet count (Plt), prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and fibrinogen (Fb). Platelet count showed significant changes at foaling (P &lt; 0.05) and a negative correlation (r = -0.968; P = 0.032) with postpartum. Prothrombin time changed (P &lt; 0.05) showing a significant correlation (r = 0.675; P = 0.016) with late pregnancy. Fibrinogen concentrations changed throughout the experimental period (P &lt; 0.0001). The linear regression model revealed a positive correlation (r = 0.9210; P &lt; 0.0001) between Fb and late pregnancy and a negative correlation (r = -0.9583; P = 0.042) between Fb and early postpartum. The shortening in PT recorded in the imminence of parturition along with the increase in Plt and Fb at foaling might reflect a physiological hypercoagulable state that constrains excessive bleeding, enhancing mares&#39; odds of surviving. Our research improves the knowledge about blood coagulation in periparturient mares providing specific information on routine coagulation tests that may support in monitoring mare&#39;s hemostatic profile during late pregnancy and early postpartum.
ABSTRACT This study evaluated the biological effects of high stocking density on mullet (Mugil ce... more ABSTRACT This study evaluated the biological effects of high stocking density on mullet (Mugil cephalus). Fifty fish, caught from Faro lake, were divided into two groups, a low-density control group (n = 15), stocked at 3.4 kg/m3 in an 800 l tank and a high-density experimental group (n = 35), stocked at 8.4 kg/m3 an 800 l tank. The ammonia concentration in the control group tank reached 0.3 mg/l after 2 days while that in the experimental tank reached 5 mg/l. Haematological parameters and serum protein profiles were determined following blood sampling. An Unpaired T-test showed significant differences between the two groups on Red Blood Cell Count, Haematocrit, Haemoglobin, White Blood Cell Count, Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin, Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration, total proteins, albumin and α-globulins. In the experimental group, the disappearance of prealbumin and the γ-globulin fraction was particularly evident. Histopathological changes indicated that mucosal electrolytic failure was the main function compromised. This could eventually lead to death. The findings suggest that mullet is sensitive to stocking density linked to ammonia toxicosis.
ABSTRACT The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by aquatic organisms in response to stre... more ABSTRACT The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by aquatic organisms in response to stressful factor is a common feature in aquatic environment. Thus, the evaluation of parameters related to oxidative stress in fish, in first instance those showing the redox potential, is notable to characterize the environmental conditions. Short-term storage of samples is essential when blood must be transported from collection sites to laboratories. Therefore, excessive delays in processing might compromise the reliability of results. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of short-term storage time at +4 °C on total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and oxidative stress index (OSI) in flathead mullet (Mugil cephalus) serum. After blood collection, all sample were analyzed and the assays were repeated after 24, 48 and 72 h from sampling. results showed a significant effect of short-term storage on TOS and TAC (P ≤ 0.0001), while the statistical significance of the linear regression study for these parameters was reduced as consequence of storage. These results highlight that the activities of oxidants and antioxidants in flathead mullet serum change during short-term storage at 4 °C and should be assesses as soon as possible from collection.
This paper describes circatrigintan progress of some electrocardiographic pa- rameters and of the... more This paper describes circatrigintan progress of some electrocardiographic pa- rameters and of the serum electrolytes in the jumper horse during a period of pre-competi- tive training performed in order to define the temporal organization of some parameters employed to evaluate the athletic performance of the horse. Five Sella Italiana horses, clinically healthy and specifically trained have been utilized for the
Pregnancy represents a specific physiological status characterized by continuous adjustments that... more Pregnancy represents a specific physiological status characterized by continuous adjustments that affect maternal metabolism of all nutrients. In the last trimester of pregnancy, mare&#39;s nutrient requirements greatly increase and most pregnancy-associated diseases are likely to occur. Therefore, we aimed to assess the metabolic profile of broodmares focusing on the last 3 months of pregnancy and the early post-partum. Fifteen pregnant mares (Group A) were monitored from 263 ± 3 days of pregnancy until 21 days after foaling. Seven non-pregnant mares (Group B) were used as the control group. Blood samples were collected weekly by jugular venipuncture throughout the experimental period, and additional blood samples were collected within 24 ± 12 h of foaling. Obtained sera were analyzed for urea (Ur), creatinine (Cre), total protein (TP), total, direct and indirect bilirubin (tB, dB, iB), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (tChol) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB). During pregnancy, Ur (p = 0.015) and dB (p = 0.028) were higher in Group A than Group B. Serum Cre, tB, iB and TG (p &lt; 0.001) decreased after foaling; furthermore, Group A exhibited lower tChol (p &lt; 0.001) and higher BHB (p &lt; 0.001) than Group B during the study. There were significant interactions of time × peripartum on Ur (p = 0.007), Cre (p &lt; 0.001), tB (p = 0.018), TG (p &lt; 0.001) and tChol (p &lt; 0.001). These results can be used in the interpretation of biochemical studies in late gestation mares which develop systemic disease. The improved understanding of the metabolic profile during the peripartum might assist in monitoring the health status of the broodmares to promote foetal growth and well-being.
Uploads