The effect of feeding rations with different ratios of concentrate to alfalfa hay on blood hematological and biochemical parameters of farmed ostriches (Struthio camelus)

A two-month trial was conducted to investigate the effects of pelleting rations with 70:30, 65:35, and 60:40 concentrate to high-quality roughage (alfalfa hay) ratios on hematological and biochemical parameters of ostriches. A total of 18 seven-month-old male ostrich chicks, initially weighing an average of 60–70 kg, were distributed into three different outdoor paddocks at a stocking density of six birds per paddock. In the morning, blood collection was made from the wing vein after about 12 h of fasting. All rations resulted in no significant change in hematological parameters. However, with increasing alfalfa inclusion rate, the heterophil/lymphocyte ratio tended to be lower (P?=?0.089); whereas the values of hemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) tended to be higher (P values 0.069, 0.072 and 0.094, respectively). In terms of plasma biochemical parameters, increasing the ratio of concentrate to alfalfa hay in ostrich diets resulted in significant (P?<?0.05) depression in the values of glucose (up to 20.2 %), total cholesterol (up to 19.2 %), creatine kinase (up to 27.9 %), and aspartate aminotransferase (up to 29.9 %). Additionally, the 65:35 or 60:40 rations caused a decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (27.9 and 42 %, respectively; P?=?0.008) compared to the 70:40 ration. Without exception, no rations affected the values of leukocyte subsets, total protein, albumin, globulin, uric acid, alanine aminotransferase, gamma glutamyl transferase, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low density lipoprotein. Based on our results, the concentrate to alfalfa ratio of 60:40 could be suggested as optimum ratio for good health conditions of juvenile ostriches.     

Plasma hormones, metabolites, milk production, and cholesterol levels in Murrah buffaloes fed with Asparagus racemosus in transition and postpartum period

Ten dry and pregnant Murrah buffaloes were selected to investigate the effect of Asparagus racemosus feeding on hormones, metabolites, milk yield, and plasma cholesterol levels. The treatment groups of buffaloes were fed with A. racemosus (shatavari) @?150?g/day/animal during prepartum and @?300?g/day/animal during the postpartum period. Blood samples collected on ?6, ?4, ?2-week, day of parturition (0), and +2, +4, and +6-week postpartum were analyzed for plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), prolactin, cortisol, and blood metabolites. Milk samples collected at weekly intervals (+1, +3, +5, and 7?weeks) were analyzed for total milk fat cholesterol. Prepartum plasma cholesterol concentrations were significantly higher in treatment group over the control (P?<?0.05). Mean plasma triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, glucose, and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels varied nonsignificantly between groups. Plasma prolactin and cortisol concentrations were significantly (P?<?0.01) more in treatment group than in control group. On day of parturition, plasma prolactin, cortisol, LDL, and plasma total cholesterol were higher (P?<?0.01) in treatment group buffaloes in comparison to control group. A. racemosus feeding significantly (P?<?0.01) increased plasma prolactin, cortisol (P?<?0.01), and milk fat cholesterol (P?<?0.05) without affecting total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, glucose, and NEFA concentrations. The buffaloes of treatment group produced more milk (?@?0.526?kg/animal/day) suggesting thereby that A. racemosus is galactopoietic. It was concluded that feeding of A. racemosus increases plasma prolactin and cortisol and decreased plasma total cholesterol and LDL concentration.     

Hyperlipidaemia in trypanosomiasis of naturally infected horses: possible cachexia–anorexia syndrome?

Trypanosomiasis caused by Trypanosoma evansi commonly produces wasting disease with signs of emaciation and cachexia mainly at the end stage. The present study was conducted to explore the possible hyperlipaemia or hyperlipidaemia and its association with cachexia–anorexia in equine trypanosomiasis. Out of the fifteen confirmed animals, none of the plasma sample was opaque. There was a significant increase in plasma triglyceride, total cholesterol and blood urea nitrogen and a highly significant increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. A mild increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and very low-density lipoprotein levels were observed, while the relative percentage of HDL and LDL was altered with high significance. A moderate increase in triglyceride and highly significant increase in LDL might be the reasons for retention of appetite and lipolysis. Possible protein breakdown and presence of lipolysis might be the reasons for cachexia in equine trypanosomiasis.     

Potential use of cholesterol lipoprotein profile to confirm obesity status in dogs

A common sign of obesity, in dogs, is hyperlipidemia, which is characterized by hypercholesterolemia and/or hypertriglycemia. Hyperlipidemia can be caused by a quantitative increase in circulating lipoproteins (LP) or by a higher lipid concentration in the various LP classes. In this study, we sought to determine whether aberrations occur with cholesterol lipoprotein profile, especially with sub HDL-cholesterol fraction % in obese dogs. Using clinically healthy and disease free (no overt signs) body condition score classified obese dogs, of all ages, we attempted to determine the influence of age, gender and obesity status on cholesterol lipoprotein profiling. Overall, no aberration in pattern was observed in obese dogs <8 years of age. However, in older obese animals (≥8 years of age), the general aberration pattern to cholesterol lipoprotein observed was that a significant decrease in HDL2 and 3 fraction % occurs with a concomitant increase in either HDL1-Cho or VLDL and LDL -Cho fraction % depending on gender. Linear regression analysis indicated that obesity status appears to significantly affect total cholesterol, HDL2 and 3-Cho, VLDL and LDL-Cho levels (P = 0.02, 0.046, and 0.045, respectively), whereas it is borderline with HDL1-Cho (P = 0.062). On the other hand, age significantly influenced TG, Total cholesterol, and HDL1-Cho levels (P = 0.009, 0.006, and 0.002, respectively), while gender influenced VLDL and LDL-Cho (P = 0.024) level. Therefore, aberrations in cholesterol lipoprotein profile pattern might be of potential use to assess and diagnose obesity status, in conjunction with BCS, especially of older overweight animals which might be considered borderline obese.     

Effect of the periparturient period on serum lipid and cholesterol lipoprotein concentrations in goats (Capra hircus)

Blood samples were taken from 12 goats during the periparturient period (4 and 1 weeks before and 2, 10 and 30 days after delivery), and from 10 nonpregnant goats. The following variables were determined: total lipids (TL), triacylglycerol (TG), total cholesterol (TCH) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol fractions. One week before delivery TL (2.32 ± 0.12 g/l, P ≤ 0.05), TG (0.32 ± 0.16 mmol/l, P ≤ 0.001) and TCH concentrations (1.65 ± 0.42 mmol/l, P ≤ 0.05) were significantly increased as compared to non-pregnant goats (2.08 ± 0.28 g/l, 0.15 ± 0.05 mmol/l, 1.38 ± 0.19 mmol/l, respectively). After delivery, the concentrations of TL, TG, TCH and HDL decreased significantly. The lowest TG concentration was observed 2 days after delivery (0.18 ± 0.02 mmol/l), while TL (1.73 ± 0.21 g/l), TCH (0.95 ± 0.21 mmol/l) and HDL (0.74 ± 0.16 mmol/l) reached the lowest level 10 days after delivery. Two days after delivery a significant increase of LDL concentration was observed (0.38 ± 0.04 mmol/l); however, ten days after delivery a threefold decrease was shown in the LDL concentration (0.12 ± 0.04 mmol/l). A month after delivery all the variables studied reached levels similar to those measured in non-pregnant goats.     

A review of lipoprotein cholesterol metabolism: importance to ovarian function

Cholesterol utilized for steroid synthesis by ovarian tissue may be derived from de novo synthesis or cellular uptake of lipoprotein cholesterol. The majority of blood cholesterol is transported by either low (LDL) or high (HDL) density lipoproteins, depending on the animal species. Prior to vascularization, only HDL are in follicular fluid and contribute sterol to granulosa cells because other lipoproteins are unable to transverse the basement membrane due to their molecular masses. Following vascularization, both LDL and HDL bathe luteal cells. Most species preferentially use LDL cholesterol as a precursor for ovarian steroid synthesis. The LDL uptake by ovarian tissue occurs by receptor-mediated endocytosis. The receptor recognizes apolipoprotein B of LDL and apolipoprotein E found on some, but not all, HDL. Within a species, a positive relationship may exist between HDL apolipoprotein E content and importance of HDL cholesterol as a precursor for steroidogenesis. A "HDL pathway" exists for uptake of sterol from HDL void of apolipoprotein E. The HDL receptor exhibits broad binding specificity. Unlike LDL, the HDL particle is not internalized, and cholesterol preferentially is taken up relative to other HDL constituents. In most species, lipoproteins, rather than de novo synthesis from acetate, contribute the majority of cholesterol used for steroid production. Trophic hormones increase lipoprotein binding, internalization, degradation and conversion of lipoprotein-derived sterol to steroids, effects that are mediate through cyclic adenosine monophosphate. Knowledge recently acquired regarding lipoprotein sterol utilization by the ovary may be useful in developing nutritional, pharmacological or endocrine manipulations that may positively affect cholesterol clearance by the ovary, steroidogenesis and reproductive performance.     

Intestinal mucosa develops in a sex-dependent manner in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) fed Saccharomyces cerevisiae

ABSTRACT

1. The aim of study was to investigate whether the impact of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the histological structure of the intestine, innervation of the small intestine wall, and basal biochemical serum parameters in Japanese quail was sex dependent.

2. One-day-old healthy male and female Japanese quail were fed either a basal diet containing no yeast (control group) or the basal diet plus 1.5% (15 g/kg of diet) of yeast (S. cerevisiae inactivated by drying). Samples from the duodenum and jejunum were taken from each bird at the age of 42 days. Blood samples were collected at this age and the concentrations of glucose, total protein, creatinine, uric acid, lipid profile (total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins (LDL), high density lipoproteins (HDL) and triacylglycerols (TG)), alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), aspartate aminotransferase (AspAT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), amylase (AMY), calcium, phosphorus and iron were determined.

3. Female quail fed diets supplemented with yeast had significantly lower total cholesterol and amylase activity than the control females. The concentration of HDL was higher in the male quail than in the females, irrespective of the treatment. An opposite effect was observed in LDL. The diet treatments influenced the activity of AspAT, which was significantly less in the male quail fed diets with 1.5% yeast.

4. Supplementation with S. cerevisiae increased the myenteron, submucosa and mucosa thickness, villus length and thickness and size of absorptive surface, while the number of villi and enterocytes were decreased in the duodenum in males. Female quail showed an increased absorptive surface in the jejunum. The Meissner (submucosal) plexuses were influenced by the feeding and sex to a greater extent than the Auerbach plexus (in the muscularis propria).

5. The results demonstrated that S. cerevisiae (1.5%) in the diet caused significant positive effects in Japanese quail, exerting an effect on the morphology of the small intestine in a sex-dependent manner.     

Changes in selected serum parameters of broiler chicken fed supplemental chromium

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of chromium (Cr) from Cr yeast on the growth performance and total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, total protein and Cr concentration in the serum of broiler chicken. The birds were fed a control diet or a control diet supplemented with Cr at a level of 300, 500 microg/kg Cr. The supplementation of 500 mug/kg Cr increased body weight, weight gain and feed efficiency (p < 0.05). In addition, supplementation with Cr decreased the serum total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (p < 0.05), triglycerides (p < 0.05) and glucose (p < 0.05) concentrations whereas serum HDL cholesterol increased. Serum total protein and serum Cr concentration slightly but not significantly increased in both Cr groups. The study suggest that Cr supplementation particularly at 500 microg/kg Cr from Cr yeast can influence on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism of broiler chicken and can be used as additives in animal diet but it still needs more investigations.     

Reference serum protein and lipoprotein fractions of ostriches (Struthio camelus) in Turkey

The aim of this study was to determine for reference purposes the values of serum albumin, alpha 1-globulin, alpha 2-globulin, beta-globulin, gamma-globulin, and alpha-lipoprotein (high density lipoprotein), pre-beta-lipoprotein (very low density lipoprotein) and beta-lipoprotein (low density lipoprotein) fractions of normal ostriches (Struthio camelus) in Turkey. Five male and five female ostriches, 18 months old, were used. All the ostriches were fed on a diet that contained 15.14% crude protein and 2,950 Kcal/kg of metabolizable energy. The serum protein and lipoprotein fractions were measured using agarose gel electrophoresis. The fractions were found to be 60.96% albumin, 0.24% alpha 1-globulin, 15.91% alpha 2-globulin, 13.34% beta-globulin, 9.55% gamma-globulin, 53.77% HDL, 0.60% VLDL and 48.09% LDL.     

Spectrophotometry and Ultracentrifugation for Measurement of Plasma Lipids in Dogs with Diabetes Mellitus

Background

There are conflicting reports of plasma lipoprotein lipid content in dogs with diabetes mellitus (DM).

Objectives

To determine lipoprotein lipid content of plasma of dogs with DM by spectrophotometry and ultracentrifugation; to compare lipoprotein lipid content in diabetic and healthy dogs; and to quantify apolipoprotein B‐100 (ApoB) in dogs with DM.

Animals

22 dogs with DM and 9 healthy dogs.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study. Triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) concentrations were measured by spectrophotometry. Very low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL‐C) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) concentrations were calculated after ultracentrifugation. Non‐HDL‐C cholesterol was calculated by subtracting HDL‐C from TC. ApoB was quantified by ELISA. The Mann‐Whitney test was used for comparison of median lipoprotein concentrations, and Spearman's correlation was used to assess associations between ApoB and lipoprotein fractions.

Results

All values are reported in mg/dL. Median TG (122), TC (343.5), HDL‐C, (200), VLDL‐C, (27) LDL‐C (68), non‐HDL‐C (114), and ApoB (320) were significantly higher in dogs with DM, compared to healthy dogs (57, 197, 168, 12, 16, 31, and 258, respectively, P‐values 0.0079, <0.001, 0.029, 0.011, <0.001, <0.001, 0.025, respectively). A significant association was found between ApoB and LDL‐C (Spearman's rho = 0.41, P = 0.022) and between ApoB and non‐HDL‐C (Spearman's rho = 0.40, P = 0.027).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dyslipidemia of dogs with DM is characterized by pronounced increases in LDL‐C and non‐HDL‐C concentrations, although all lipoprotein fractions are significantly increased. Knowledge of specific lipoprotein fraction alterations in dogs with DM can enhance treatment options for diabetic dyslipidemia in dogs.     

Serum biochemical values and mineral element contents of tissues in yaks

Serum biochemical values and the wet weight to dry weight ratios of tissues were determined in yaks in Shandan county of Gansu province. The liver, kidney, heart and muscle contents of seven elements in yaks were also analysed. Most serum biochemical values were similar to those of cattle, camels and sheep, but the calcium concentration was considerably above the normal range for other ruminants. The liver contained the highest concentrations of copper, manganese and cobalt and the kidney of selenium, iron and calcium.Abbreviations Alb albumin - ALT alanine aminotransferase - AST aspartate aminotransferase - BUN blood urea nitrogen - Chol cholesterol - Glob globulin - -GT -glutamyl transpeptidase - IP inorganic phosphorus - TP total protein     

The effect of Eimeria acervulina infection on plasma lipids and lipoproteins in young broiler chicks

In young broiler chicks inoculated with 2 x 10(6) sporulated oocysts of Eimeria acervulina per bird, total plasma lipids were significantly depressed compared with controls in the first week after inoculation. The lowest level observed was at 5 days post-inoculation (d.p.i.), at which time the chick host is known to experience malabsorption in the chick host (Ruff and Wilkins, 1980). Analysis of plasma components of infected chicks at 4 and 7 d.p.i. showed that triglycerides, total cholesterol, free fatty acids, pigments and total protein were significantly decreased compared with controls. At 7 d.p.i., reduction of total cholesterol reflected mainly reduction in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. However, the ratio of HDL cholesterol/total plasma cholesterol was not significantly different from the control ratio. Density gradient ultracentrifugation of chick plasma separated lipoproteins into three main fractions: portomicrons plus very low density lipoproteins (PM + VLDL), low density lipoproteins (LDL) and HDL. These fractions were analyzed for lipid content. Infection with E. acervulina caused (1) significant reduction in the triglyceride and cholesterol contents of the PM + VLDL fraction at 3 and 5 d.p.i., (2) significant reduction of LDL cholesterol at 9 d.p.i. and LDL phospholipid at 5-9 d.p.i., and (3) significant reduction of HDL cholesterol at 3-9 d.p.i. and HDL phospholipid at 5-9 d.p.i. Starvation of uninfected chicks for 48 h caused significant reduction in plasma triglycerides and phospholipids, but an increase in total cholesterol. Density gradient ultracentrifugation showed that the changes in these components reflected mainly reduction of the lipids in the PM + VLDL fraction. The LDL fractions, however, appeared more intense than those of the controls and contained more cholesterol and phospholipids. These results suggest that changes at 3 and 5 d.p.i. in the plasma lipoprotein pattern of chicks infected with E. acervulina most closely resemble changes seen in chicks starved for 48 h as far as PM + VLDL fraction is concerned. However, changes seen from 7 to 9 d.p.i. involve the LDL and HDL fractions and may reflect alterations in lipid and/or lipoprotein synthesis in the liver and intestine.     

Plasma biochemistry of one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius): Effects of anticoagulants and comparison with serum

The effects of various types of anticoagulants on plasma biochemistry were studied in man and various animals but limited informations are existing for camel plasma biochemistry. Eleven clinically healthy one-humped camels were blood sampled in different tubes containing different anticoagulants and plain tubes for harvesting plasma and serum. The concentrations of glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, total bilirubin, urea, creatinine, total protein, albumin, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium, and chloride and the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatine kinase (CK) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) were measured. Except for the amounts of AST, ALT, CK, total bilirubin, and inorganic phosphorus, other measured parameters were significantly lower in citrated plasma than in serum. Most parameters did not show any difference, but significant increase for CK activity and significant decrease for GGT, cholesterol, creatinine and chloride were seen when heparin was used as anticoagulant. Using EDTA as an anticoagulant caused a significant difference in the amounts of some measured parameters in plasma except glucose, AST, ALT, GGT, cholesterol, albumin, total protein, bilirubin, and triglyceride in comparison with serum.     

Lipid status, paraoxonase-1 activity and metabolic parameters in serum of heifers and lactating cows related to oxidative stress

The objective of this study was to investigate serum lipids, metabolic parameters and activity of the anti-oxidative enzyme paraoxonase-1 (PON1). The study was conducted on non-pregnant heifers with optimal health status and on healthy dairy cows in the period of intensive lactation, assuming that the energy and metabolic demands during lactation reduce anti-oxidative protection. Total cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol concentrations were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in lactating cows than in heifers. Bilirubin concentration and γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity were also significantly higher in lactating cows (P < 0.05), indicating increased hepatic efforts of cows to meet energy requirements for lactation. Significantly lower PON1 activity and PON1/HDL ratio in lactating cows compared to heifers (P < 0.05) showed that metabolic efforts during pregnancy, parturition and lactation influence PON1 activity due to oxidative stress. Concurrent increase in total and HDL-cholesterol during lactation indicated that the HDL particle is a major carrier of cholesterol in cows.     

Plasma biochemistry of one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius): effects of anticoagulants and comparison with serum

The effects of various types of anticoagulants on plasma biochemistry were studied in man and various animals but limited informations are existing for camel plasma biochemistry. Eleven clinically healthy one-humped camels were blood sampled in different tubes containing different anticoagulants and plain tubes for harvesting plasma and serum. The concentrations of glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, total bilirubin, urea, creatinine, total protein, albumin, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium, and chloride and the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatine kinase (CK) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) were measured. Except for the amounts of AST, ALT, CK, total bilirubin, and inorganic phosphorus, other measured parameters were significantly lower in citrated plasma than in serum. Most parameters did not show any difference, but significant increase for CK activity and significant decrease for GGT, cholesterol, creatinine and chloride were seen when heparin was used as anticoagulant. Using EDTA as an anticoagulant caused a significant difference in the amounts of some measured parameters in plasma except glucose, AST, ALT, GGT, cholesterol, albumin, total protein, bilirubin, and triglyceride in comparison with serum.     

Effects of Common Anticoagulants on Routine Plasma Biochemistry of Horse and Comparison with Serum

The effects of various types of anticoagulants on plasma biochemistry have been studied in humans and various animals; however, limited information exists for effects on horse plasma biochemistry. Ten clinically healthy Thoroughbred horses were blood sampled in tubes containing different anticoagulants as well as no anticoagulant. The concentrations of glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, total bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, total protein, albumin, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium and iron, and the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatine kinase (CK), and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) were measured. Except for the amounts of inorganic phosphorus, magnesium, and GGT, other measured parameters were significantly lower in citrated plasma than in serum. When corrected for dilution, significant differences were seen for the amounts of glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, bilirubin, calcium, iron, and the activity of ALT, ALP, and CK in citrated plasma. Most parameters did not show any difference; however, significant decreases in BUN, total bilirubin, ALT, and CK activity were seen when heparin was used as an anticoagulant. When compared with serum, using ethylenediaminetetra-acetic acid (EDTA) as an anticoagulant produced a significant difference in the amounts of measured plasma parameters with the exception of GGT, albumin, creatinine, inorganic phosphorus, and triglyceride.     

Effects of different levels of protein supplementary diet on gene expressions related to intramuscular deposition in early‐weaned yaks

This study was conducted to estimate different levels of protein supplementary diet on gene expressions related to intramuscular deposition in early‐weaned yaks. Results showed that supplementary dietary protein significantly increased final weight, average daily gain (ADG), intramuscular fat (IMF), serum free fatty acid (FFA), total triglycerides, total cholesterol (Ch), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) content. There was a quadratic response of ADG, IMF, FFA, Ch, HDL and LDL to dietary crude protein (CP) level. Lipoprotein lipase (LPL), fatty acid synthase (FAS) and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC) enzyme activities were significantly increased by supplementary dietary CP, while hormone‐sensitive lipase (HSL) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase‐1 (CPT‐1) activities were significantly decreased. LPL, ACC and FAS enzyme activities showed quadratic increase as dietary CP increased. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ), LPL, FAS, sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP‐1), ACC, stearoyl‐CoA desaturase (SCD) and heart fatty‐acid binding protein (H‐FABP) gene expression were significantly increased by supplementary dietary CP, while HSL and CPT‐1 gene expression were significantly decreased. PPARγ, LPL, SREBP‐1, ACC and H‐FABP gene expression showed quadratic increase as dietary CP increased. These results indicated that supplementary dietary protein increased IMF accumulation mainly to increased intramuscular lipogenic gene expression and decreased lipolytic gene expression.     

Reference serum biochemical values for emus and ostriches.

Reference serum biochemical values were determined in blood samples from 15 male, 18 female, and 4 unsexed emus (Dromaius novaehollandiae) 1 to 48 months old. Serum biochemical values also were obtained for 19 male, 26 female, and 4 unsexed ostriches (Struthio camelus) 1 to 60 months old. Parametric (mean +/- 2 SD) and non-parametric (fifth to 95th percentile) reference ranges and linear trends as influenced by age were determined for enzyme activities and concentrations of glucose, inorganic phosphate, BUN, uric acid, creatinine, triglyceride, cholesterol, total protein, and albumin. Species differences for all analytes, except cholesterol and inorganic phosphate concentrations, were detected. Creatine kinase values in ostriches were higher than those in emus. There were no linear relationships between age and analyte values in emus, and sex did not significantly (P < 0.05) affect the values in emus. Analyte values in ostriches tended to increase with age, but cholesterol, creatine kinase, inorganic phosphate, and alkaline phosphatase concentrations decreased with age. Glucose, triglyceride, gamma-glutamyltransferase, and cholinesterase concentrations in ostriches were not linearly associated with age. Age had a greater effect on the analyte values of female ostriches than it did on male ostriches. Concentrations generally increased with age in female ostriches, except for cholesterol, cholinesterase, inorganic phosphate, and alkaline phosphatase concentrations, which decreased with age.     

Egg yolk fatty acid profile of avian species – influence on human nutrition

Lipids are an important nutritional component of the avian egg. A review of the literature was completed to determine the fatty acid compositions in egg yolk from some avian species. Additionally, the nutritional influence of lipid and lipoprotein content on the plasma of male participants during 30‐day feeding was discussed. The ostrich eggs had the highest unsaturated fatty acid and the lowest cholesterol content in relation to other avian species. Ostrich had a higher proportion of 18:3n‐3 (p < 0.01) compared with other species. Chicken yolk numerically contained much higher levels of 22:6n‐3 than those found in turkeys, quails and geese, but the amount of 22:6n‐3 in ostrich egg was lower by comparison with other species (p < 0.01). After the storage of eggs at the room temperature, there was a notable loss of vitamin E (vitE) in the yolks of all species and this decrease was marginal (p < 0.01) in ostrich compared with other species. There were significant (p < 0.05) increases in plasma low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) level in all male subjects. Plasma high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) level decreased (p < 0.05) only in men who were fed chicken or ostrich eggs daily. Consumption of different species’ eggs had no influence on the total male plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels. LDL‐C:HDL‐C ratio increased (p < 0.05) after goose and turkey egg consumption. Consumption of one egg/month by healthy human subjects had no effect on serum total cholesterol and triglyceride. The LDL‐C:HDL‐C ratio (which is a strong predictor of coronary heart disease risk) increased, although non‐significantly, by consuming chicken, quail and ostrich eggs.     

Effects of Chinese herbal mixture on performance,egg quality and blood biochemical parameters of laying hens

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of Chinese herbal mixture (CHM) in laying hen diets on performance, egg quality and egg nutrition components, as well as selected blood biochemical parameters. A total of 270 Lohmann Brown laying hens, 24 week of age, were randomly distributed into three dietary treatments and fed for 6 week. The CHM was used at the levels of 0%, 0.5% and 1.0% in the diets of the control and two treatment groups respectively. Each dietary treatment was divided into five replicates, comprising of 18 hens each. Hens were housed in a 3‐tier battery system. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Blood samples and eggs were collected at the end of the experiment. The results showed that dietary treatments did not affect egg weight, mortality, eggshell thickness, albumen height, Haugh units, eggshell‐breaking strength and egg‐shape index. Dietary supplementation of CHM significantly improved (p < 0.05) laying rate and the lowest feed conversion ratio were observed with 1.0% CHM supplementation diets. CHM supplementation decreased (p < 0.05) cracked‐egg rate, egg yolk cholesterol, blood serum levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and increased blood serum levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C). No differences in serum total protein, serum albumen, serum glucose and aspartate amino transferase (AST) were observed in hens fed CHM. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with CHM improved egg production and egg quality and reduced serum cholesterol concentrations in laying hens. Dietary supplementation of 1.0% CHM in layer diets may be a feasible means of producing eggs with lower cholesterol and higher egg yolk phospholipid contents for health conscious consumers.