Hematology and serum biochemistry parameters of North American river otters (Lontra canadensis).

Blood samples were obtained from 155 North American river otters (Lontra canadensis; 94 adult males, 38 adult females, 10 juvenile males, and 13 juvenile females) to establish baseline hematology and from 50 adult river otters (40 males and 10 females) for baseline serum biochemistry parameters for the species. The otters were livetrapped from eastern North Carolina (USA) during a 4-yr period. Data for 14 routine hematologic parameters and 22 serum chemistry assays showed significant differences in total leukocyte count and absolute neutrophil and monocyte numbers for adults versus juveniles, red blood cell counts and hemoglobin between adult and juvenile males, and calcium and alkaline phosphatase values for adult males between years of the study and an increase in leukocyte counts and absolute neutrophils with increased degree of trap injury sustained.     

Comparative study of hematologic and plasma biochemical variables in Eastern Atlantic juvenile and adult nesting loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)

Background: Plasma biochemical and hematologic variables are important in the management of endangered sea turtles, such as loggerheads. However, studies on blood biochemistry and hematology of loggerheads are limited, and different concentrations according to variable criteria have been reported. Objective: The purpose of this study was to establish and compare baseline plasma chemistry and hematology values in Eastern Atlantic juvenile and adult nesting loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Methods: Blood samples were collected from 69 healthy juvenile loggerhead sea turtles after their rehabilitation in captivity, and from 34 adult nesting loggerheads after oviposition. Fresh blood was used for leukocyte differential count and PCV determination. Heparinized blood was used for RBC and WBC counts. Plasma biochemical concentrations were measured using an automated biochemical analyzer. For the comparative study, nonparametric statistical analysis was done using the Mann–Whitney U‐test. Results: Minimum, maximum, and median concentrations were obtained for 14 hematologic and 15 plasma chemistry variables. Statistically significant differences between juvenile and adult turtles were found for PCV; RBC, WBC, and leukocyte differential counts; total protein, albumin, globulins, calcium, triglycerides, glucose, total cholesterol and urea concentrations; and lactate dehydrogenase activity. Conclusions: Age, size, and reproductive status cause important variations in the hematologic and plasma biochemical results of loggerheads. The reference values obtained in this study may be used as a standard profile, useful for veterinary surgeons involved in sea turtle conservation.     

Feeding of grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) with the contraceptive agent DiazaCon™: effect on cholesterol,hematology, and blood chemistry

Grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) are an invasive species in Britain and Italy. They have replaced native red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) throughout most of Britain, and cause damage to trees. Currently, lethal control is used to manage grey squirrel populations in Britain, but nonlethal methods might be more acceptable to the public. One such method is contraception with 20,25‐diazacholesterol dihydrochloride (DiazaCon?). DiazaCon? inhibits the conversion of desmosterol to cholesterol, resulting in increasing desmosterol concentrations and decreasing cholesterol concentrations. Because cholesterol is needed for the synthesis of steroid reproductive hormones, such as progesterone and testosterone, inhibition of cholesterol synthesis indirectly inhibits reproduction. Desmosterol is used as a marker of efficacy in laboratory studies with species that do not reproduce readily in captivity. Grey squirrels were gavaged with a DiazaCon? solution for 2 days, and then fed DiazaCon?‐coated peanuts for an additional 8 days at target doses of 50 and 100 mg DiazaCon? per kg body weight. There was a significant difference in cholesterol concentrations in the treatment groups compared to the control group. Cholesterol was reduced by ≥ 40% for 2 months in both treatment groups. There were no differences among groups with respect to blood chemistry and hematology parameters, and mean values are reported. The mean overall dose of DiazaCon? received was 29.0 ± 1.6 and 55.3 ± 4.3 mg/kg in the low (50 mg/kg) and high dose (100 mg/kg) groups, respectively. DiazaCon? might provide an effective, acceptable alternative to lethal control.     

Hematologic values for free-ranging urban gray squirrels (Sciurus c carolinensis).

Gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis carolinensis) (N=180) from Jacksonville, Fl, were examined for hematologic values: erythrocyte sedimentation rate, packed cell volume, hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, erythrocyte and leukocyte counts, differential leukocyte counts, blood platelet counts, Hb electrophoresis, and erythrocyte fragility. Results were compared by age and by sex of the squirrels and by month of capture.     

Hematology and chemistry reference values for free-ranging harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) and the effects of hemolysis on chemistry values of captive harbor seals.

Most reported laboratory reference values for harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) are derived from captive seals, or stranded seals that have recovered from disease in marine mammal centers. This study established hematology and serum chemistry reference values for free-ranging harbor seals, using methods and that are current and readily available, and determined the effects of hemolysis on serum chemistry values of captive harbor seals. Blood samples were collected for hematologic and serum chemistry measurements from 14 clinically normal, adult male and female harbor seals and two juvenile harbor seals (approximate age 6 mo) captured in saltwater sloughs and estuaries near Moss Landing, California, USA. Values for amylase, globulin, and differential leukocyte count, not previously reported, were determined. In general, hematology and chemistry values in adults were similar to those reported for free-ranging and captive harbor seals, except for glucose, urea nitrogen, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) values, which were higher than those reported previously. Red blood cell counts in the two juveniles were higher than in adults and in young harbor seals studied previously. To determine the effects of hemolysis on serum chemistry values, two intensities of hemolysis were generated experimentally in blood collected from 11 harbor seals recovering from injuries or stranding at the Marine Mammal Center (Sausalito, California 94965, USA). Moderate hemolysis (++, 1 g/L hemoglobin, red-tinged) significantly increased LDH activity, whereas severe hemolysis ( , 2 g/L hemoglobin, cherry red) significantly increased total protein, albumin, calculated globulin, LDH, and total bilirubin and significantly decreased creatinine. The effects of hemolysis must be considered when chemistry results of harbor seals are interpreted.     

Hematologic and serum biochemical reference values for the wild Spectacled Caiman, Caiman crocodilus crocodilus, from the Venezuelan plains

Background: Commercial farming of Caiman crocodilus crocodilus has had an impact on the use of this species for meat consumption and the leather industry. Spectacled Caimans comprise part of the South American plains biodiversity. Misinterpretation of laboratory data is a risk owing to the limited hematologic and serum biochemical values available for this species. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine hematologic and serum biochemical values for wild Spectacled Caimans from the Venezuelan plains. Methods: Blood samples were collected form the caudal tail vein of 100 Spectacled Caimans (40 males and 60 females) from the plains located in the State of Apure. Values for RBC count, PCV, hemoglobin concentration, WBC absolute and differential counts, and thrombocyte counts were obtained using manual methods, and RBC indices were calculated. Serum biochemical analysis included measurement of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and creatine kinase activities and concentrations of total protein and albumin. Comparisons between sexes were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney test. Results: Reference values for wild Spectacled Caimans were determined. Minor differences in hematologic values, particularly for RBC counts, were found compared with previously published values for this species. Serum biochemical values were similar to those available for other crocodilians. There were no significant differences between males and females. Conclusions: Minor differences between the values obtained for wild Spectacled Caimans and those previously published for this species may be related to differences in methodology and environmental conditions. Availability of hematologic and serum biochemical reference values will be useful for accurate diagnosis and management of disease in this species.     

Hematologic parameters of the Spanish ibex (Capra pyrenaica).

Thirteen hematologic parameters were measured in 52 Spanish ibexes (Capra pyrenaica) from Sierra Nevada Natural Park, southern Spain. The animals were captured, maintained in captivity, and physically restrained for blood collection. We compared hematologic values for healthy ibexes with animals infected with sarcoptic mites and animals treated for scabies and recovered. Ibexes with scabies showed a decreased number of erythrocytes, a higher mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and increased numbers of band neutrophils. The number of lymphocytes was significantly higher in animals that had recovered from scabies as compared with infested ones. The only difference observed between healthy and recovered animals was in the number of monocytes, which remained significantly higher in animals that had recovered from scabies. No hemoparasites were found in this study.     

Hematologic and serum biochemistry values in two species of free-ranging porcupines (Coendou prehensilis, Coendou melanurus) in French Guiana.

Individuals of two porcupine species (Coendou prehensilis and Coendou melanurus) were translocated during the flooding of a forest at a hydroelectric dam site in French Guiana. Blood samples were collected for 11 mo to determine hematologic and serum chemistry reference mean values and ranges and to look for blood parasites. Male C. prehensilis had significantly higher hemoglobin levels, packed cell volumes, and creatinine and potassium values than did females of the same species. Coendou prehensilis had significantly lower amylase levels but higher creatinine, calcium, lactate dehydrogenase, and gamma glutamyl transferase levels than C. melanurus.     

Hematology and serum chemistry values of the European brown hare

Background: Hematology and serum biochemistry values can be useful for evaluating the health of populations of captive and free-living European brown hares ( Lepus europaeus ). However, current information is fragmented and incomplete.
Objective: The objective of this study was to determine normal hematology and serum chemistry values for a population of captive European brown hares and to investigate differences related to sex and age.
Methods: Routine hematology and serum chemistry values were determined for 48 captive European brown hares in Catalonia (northeastern Spain): 21 young (6 males and 15 females) and 27 adult (14 males and 13 females) hares. Blood was obtained by auricular venipuncture while animals were physically restrained. Results were expressed as the mean ± SD, and reference intervals were calculated as the mean ± 2SD.
Results: RBC count, PCV, concentrations of hemoglobin, total protein, albumin, gamma globulin, urea nitrogen, and creatinine, and alanine aminotransferase activity were significantly higher in adults than in young hares, and alkaline phosphatase activity and total bilirubin concentration were lower. Sex differences were not observed.
Conclusions: Hematology and serum chemistry results obtained in this study are considered representative for healthy captive European brown hares. A single reference interval can be used for values from male and female hares, however, age-specific intervals are needed for some analytes.     

Hematologic and biochemical abnormalities indicating iron deficiency are associated with decreased reticulocyte hemoglobin content (CHr) and reticulocyte volume (rMCV) in dogs

BACKGROUND: The ADVIA 120 automated hematology system uses low- and high-angle light scatter to determine individual RBC and reticulocyte volume and hemoglobin (Hgb) concentration. Current hematologic and biochemical markers of iron status in the dog are insensitive, and results may be highly variable, especially in the presence of concurrent disease (ie, inflammation, neoplasia). Reticulocyte Hgb content (CHr) has proven useful in detecting early iron deficiency and iron deficiency masked by concurrent disease in human patients. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to retrospectively investigate the association of low CHr and reticulocyte MCV (rMCV) with hematologic and biochemical abnormalities indicative of iron deficiency in canine patients. METHODS: Reference intervals for CHr and rMCV were established on a population of 362 hematologically-normal dogs using standard methods. CBC and serum biochemical results from 833 dogs at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital were retrospectively evaluated. The prevalence of decreased CHr and rMCV values was determined based on the reference intervals. Hematologic (HCT, MCV) and biochemical (serum Fe concentration, percent saturation of transferrin [% sat]) values were compared among dogs with low CHr (n=58), low rMCV (n=50), and control dogs (cohort groups from the initial population) using a Fisher exact test. RESULTS: Reference intervals were 22.3-27.9 pg for CHr and 77.8-100.2 fL for rMCV. Seven percent (n=58) of dogs in the hospital population had low CHr and 6% (n=50) had low rMCV based on the reference values. Dogs with low CHr had significantly lower HCT, MCV, serum Fe, and % sat values than did control dogs. In addition, dogs with low CHr or low rMCV values had a higher frequency of microcytosis, anemia, low serum Fe concentration, and low % sat than did control dogs. CONCLUSION: Low CHr and low rMCV are associated with hematologic and serum biochemical abnormalities indicative of iron deficiency. CHr and rMCV hold promise as noninvasive, cost-effective measures of iron status in the dog.     

Seasonal influence on hematologic values and hemoglobin electrophoresis in Brazilian boa constrictor amarali.

As ectothermic animals, snakes depend exclusively on the environment for proper temperature maintenance, which may greatly influence their activity. Twenty-five adult Boa constrictor amarali snakes maintained in captivity were used to determine the influence of seasons on their hematologic values and electrophoretic profile of hemoglobin. A complete blood cell count (CBC) and examination for hemoparasites were performed in the summer and winter of 2004. Hemoglobin was stored for later electrophoresis. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were obtained in RBC, WBC, lymphocyte, thrombocyte, and monocyte counts, demonstrating the importance of the period of the year in the interpretation of reference values in these animals. Two snakes were detected with blood parasites (Hepatozoon sp.) in the winter and four in the summer, although it appears that their presence did not cause any significant alterations in the CBC. The electrophoretic analysis of the samples demonstrated two-four hemoglobin bands in this species.     

Determination of hematologic and blood chemical reference values in fattening pigs of different ages

In swine medicine, the determination of hematology and blood chemistry parameters is of primary interest in connection with the detection of herd problems. For the evaluation of laboratory results the availability of reference values is a prerequisite. So far, no reference values of fattening pigs have been available in Switzerland. For this reason, in the present study reference values for hematology and blood chemistry were determined for two bodyweight categories, 40-60 kg (group 1) and 85-110 kg (group 2). Hematocrit, hemoglobin and RBC counts were lower in animals in group 1. The number of segmented neutrophils was markedly higher in group 1. Lymphocyte counts exceeded neutrophil values in both groups. Concentrations of total bilirubin, AST, CK and LDH partly reached very high levels due to hemolysis or contamination of the blood samples with muscle tissue.     

Hematology and serum chemistry values of the lesser rhea (Pterocnemia pennata) raised in Patagonian farms (Argentina).

Hematologic and serum chemistry values were determined for chicks, juveniles, and adult farmed lesser rheas (Prerocnemia pennata). Blood samples were taken during March-April 1998 from the brachial veins of lesser rhea, including 64 chicks, 24 juveniles, and 36 adults, raised in Patagonian farms (Argentina). Lesser rhea chicks had significantly lower erythrocyte counts, hematocrit, hemoglobin, red cell indices, and copper than did the juveniles and adult individuals. No significant differences were observed between females and males. Most values were similar to those reported for other ratites. The data obtained provide hematologic and serum chemistry values for lesser rhea from farms.     

Hematologic, biochemical, and protein electrophoretic values in captive tawny owls (Strix aluco)

BACKGROUND: The tawny owl (Strix aluco) is a protected species in Italy. Orphaned, injured, and ill owls often are sheltered and treated in rehabilitation centers, where hematologic and biochemical analyses would be helpful to evaluate and monitor the status of their health. OBJECTIVES: The major aim of this work was to assess hematologic and biochemical constituents together with protein electrophoretic fractions in healthy tawny owls. In addition, we compared laboratory methods for determining hemoglobin (Hgb), total protein, and albumin concentrations. METHODS: Heparinized blood samples were collected from 10 clinically healthy adult captive tawny owls between March 2001 and November 2003 for CBC, routine biochemical analysis, and protein electrophoresis. Alternate methods for Hgb (estimation as HCT/3 vs spectrophotometry), total protein (biuret vs refractometry), and albumin (bromcresol green vs electrophoresis) concentrations were compared in 34 samples from 16 unhealthy adult owls and 8 nestlings. RESULTS: Results were reported as mean, median, and range (minimum-maximum). Significant differences and poor concordance were observed between methods for Hgb, total protein, and albumin. CONCLUSIONS: Hematologic and plasma biochemical values in captive tawny owls may be useful in evaluating and monitoring the health of this species in captivity.     

Age-related changes in hematology and plasma chemistry values of hybrid striped bass (Morone chrysops X Morone saxatilis)

Hybrid striped bass (Morone chrysops X Morone saxatilis ) are an important aquaculture species yet there are few diagnostic tools available to assess their health. Hematology and clinical chemistry analyses are not used extensively in fish medicine due to the lack of reference intervals for various fish species, and because factors such as age can affect blood values. There is little published information regarding age-related changes in blood values of juvenile fish. It is important to evaluate juvenile fish, as this is the time they are raised in aquaculture settings. Determining age-related changes in the blood values of fishes would further develop clinical pathology as a diagnostic tool, enhancing both fish medicine and the aquaculture industry. The results of standard hematology and clinical chemistry analysis were evaluated in juvenile hybrid striped bass at 4, 6, 9, 15, and 19 months of age. Values for PCV and RBC indices were significantly lower, and plasma protein concentration was significantly higher in younger fish. Total WBC and lymphocyte counts were significantly higher in fish at 6 and 9 months of age, while neutrophil and monocyte counts were higher at 6, 9, and 15 months. Eosinophil counts were significantly higher in 9-month-old fish. The majority of hematologic values fell within previously established reference intervals, indicating that only slight modification to the intervals is necessary for evaluating hematologic results of hybrid striped bass at different ages. The following analytes deviated sufficiently from adult reference intervals to warrant separate reference values: plasma protein concentration at 4 months, WBC and lymphocyte counts at 15 and 19 months, and thrombocyte-like-cells at 9 months of age. Values for most biochemical analytes were significantly different among age groups except for creatinine and potassium concentrations. Comparisons with reference intervals were not made for biochemical analytes, because established reference intervals were not available. Age-related changes in hematologic and biochemical values of striped bass were similar to those reported for rainbow trout and mammals.     

CERTAIN HEMATOLOGIC AND BLOOD CHEMICAL VALUES IN JUVENILE RHESUS MONKEYS (MACACA MULATTA)

Certain hematologic and clinical chemistry values of 148 rhesus monkeys were determined. Mean values, standard deviations and minimal-maximal values were determined for hemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume; total erythrocyte, total leukocyte and differential leukocyte count; cellular indices; prothrombin time; serum concentrations of glucose, urea nitrogen, uric acid, bilirubin, creatinine, sodium, potassium and chloride, and serum enzyme activities of alkaline phosphatase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxalacetic transaminase, and lactic dehydrogenase. Calculations were made separately for males and females and the data were compared to published values for the species.     

Histomorphometrical and stereological study of the oesophagus in the adult male Persian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus)

The Persian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus) is habitat in the Middle East countries and feed on pine acorns and other seeds. The present study was carried out to investigate the histological and volumetric features of the oesophagus in Persian squirrels. Five adult male Persian squirrels were included in the study. The cervical, thoracic and abdominal oesophagus of all subjects were processed routinely and sectioned in a serial manner. Then, the total volume of the oesophagus and its different layers were estimated using Cavalieri's principle. Histological assessment revealed a non‐keratinized stratified squamous epithelium lining the mucosa. No glands were seen in the lamina propria and submucosa. Lamina muscularis was present as a distinct layer of smooth muscle cells separating the lamina propria from the tunica submucosa. The tunica muscularis consisted of two distinct layers of striated muscle fibres: inner circular and outer longitudinal that was intermingled with few scattered smooth muscle fibres especially in the abdominal region. The thoracic region contained more amount of the lamina muscularis and tunica muscularis in comparison to the cervical or abdominal regions. The obtained results revealed that the histological structure of the Persian squirrel oesophagus has differences and similarities with other rodents and even with other species of squirrel. These findings would be useful to improve the knowledge in the areas of histological structure of the rodent digestive system.     

Hematology and serum biochemistry of Holstein dairy calves: age related changes and comparison with blood composition in adults

Specific reference intervals are needed for each animal species for appropriate interpretation of hematological and serum biochemical results. The aim of the present study was to investigate the blood composition of growing calves in order to evaluate the need for defining reference values for different age groups. Thirty two Holstein calves (18 male and 14 female) were blood sampled. A blood sample was taken within 24-48 h following birth and at 14, 28, 42, 56, 70 and 84 days of age. CBC determination and the measurements of some blood serum metabolites, enzymes, electrolytes and minerals were performed. There were significant age related changes for most hematological and biochemical parameters (p < 0.05) except for the numbers of band neutrophils and monocytes and the amounts of sodium, potassium, chloride and BUN. The results of the present study showed that for some hematological and biochemical parameters such as hemoglobin, MCV, MCH, MCHC, inorganic phosphorus, serum total protein, globulin, AST and ALP at the first three months of life and also, neutrophil numbers and glucose levels at the 24-48 h of life, the age specific reference values must be considered for precise interpretation of laboratory results.     

圈养条件下东北松鼠对植物种子进食与贮藏的选择

20015年秋季，在哈尔滨针对圈养条件下的枣北松鼠对松子、核桃、橡子、玉米和瓜子等9种植物种子的进食和贮藏开展了研究。结果表明，东北松鼠对各种植物种子的进食选择和贮藏选择具有很大的差异性；松鼠的饥饿状况、食物的适口性、营养成分、可保存性都会影响松鼠对种子的进食和贮藏，特别是进食所需时间和贮藏所需时间是影响到其进食选择和贮藏选择的主要因素。松鼠对各种植物种子进食与贮藏的选择体现了其高效合理的觅食策略。