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Mhalhel K, Arena R, Rizzo M, Piccione G, Aragona M, Levanti M, Aragona F, Arfuso F. Potential Implications of Acid-Sensing Ion Channels ASIC2 and ASIC4 in Gonadal Differentiation of Dicentrarchus labrax Subjected to Water Temperature Increase during Gonadal Development. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1024. [PMID: 38612263 PMCID: PMC11010900 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, the expression and implication of acid-sensing ion channels 2 and 4 (ASIC2 and ASIC4) in the gonadal sex differentiation of Dicentrarchus labrax (D. labrax), subjected to increasing water temperatures during gonadal development, were evaluated. Two groups were selected: a control group (CG), in which the average water temperature was maintained at 15 °C and increased to 20 °C in 20 days until weaning; and an experimental group (EG), in which the water temperature was retained at 15 °C for 60 days; thereafter, the temperature was increased daily by 0.5 °C until it reached 20 °C up to the weaning time. Ten fish from the CG and 13 fish from the EG were sampled randomly on the 335th day after hatching (dph). A higher percentage of gonad differentiation in ovaries rather than in testes was observed in the EG compared to the CG (p = 0.01). ASIC2 and ASIC4 were detected for the first time in D. labrax ovaries by indirect immunofluorescence. Both ASIC2 and ASIC4 were expressed in previtellogenic oocytes of ovaries and in scattered cells within some testes, and were most likely intratesticular previtellogenic oocytes in both the CG and EG groups. The CG group showed a higher expression of ASIC4 than the EG cohort (p < 0.05). The results gathered in this study revealed the capacity of water temperature to influence both gonadal differentiation and growth in this gonochoristic fish species, and suggests the possible role of ASIC2 and ASIC4 in gonad differentiation and gamete development in D. labrax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamel Mhalhel
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy; (K.M.); (M.R.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (F.A.); (F.A.)
| | - Rosaria Arena
- Marine Biochemistry and Ecotoxicology Laboratory, Department of Earth and Sea Science, University of Palermo, Via Barlotta 4, 91100 Trapani, Italy;
| | - Maria Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy; (K.M.); (M.R.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (F.A.); (F.A.)
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy; (K.M.); (M.R.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (F.A.); (F.A.)
| | - Marialuisa Aragona
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy; (K.M.); (M.R.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (F.A.); (F.A.)
| | - Maria Levanti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy; (K.M.); (M.R.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (F.A.); (F.A.)
| | - Francesca Aragona
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy; (K.M.); (M.R.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (F.A.); (F.A.)
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci SNC, 98168 Messina, Italy; (K.M.); (M.R.); (G.P.); (M.L.); (F.A.); (F.A.)
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Giannetto C, Arfuso F, Rizzo M, Giudice E, Calapai F, Guercio A, Macaluso G, Giacchino I, Piccione G, Cannella V. Persistence of clock gene expression in peripheral blood in dogs maintained under different photoperiod schedules. Chronobiol Int 2024; 41:369-377. [PMID: 38326980 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2024.2315217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Dogs are the common pets adopted by humans, and their circadian behavior and physiology are influenced by human habits. In many families, there is a change of lifestyle with respect to the natural daylight (NDL) cycle. Exposure to constant light disrupts some central and peripheral circadian rhythms. The aim of the present study was to improve the knowledge about the circadian changes of clock components in the peripheral blood in dogs housed under NDL and constant light (LL) conditions. Blood samples were collected on five female Beagle dogs (2 years old, 14 ± 0.5 kg) every 4 hours for a 24-hour period during an NDL (Sunrise 05:05 h - Sunset 20:55 h) and 24-hour period of constant light (LL). Blood samples were stored in a PAX gene Blood RNA Tube, real-time RT-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to determine Clock, Per1-3, and Cry1-2 gene expression. During the NDL, all genes investigated showed robust diurnal daily rhythmicity. During the constant light, only Clock maintained its daily rhythmicity. Clock acrophase was observed close to sunrise (ZT 0) and was statistically different from the other clock genes except for Per3. Per3 daily oscillations were not statistically significant. No differences were observed among the clock genes tested in the amplitude and robustness values. Our results can be considered preliminary data to provide new insights into the adaptation mechanism of the canine peripheral circadian clock. The persistence of Clock gene expression during the LL indicated the presence of an endogenously generated signal in blood. Because peripheral blood is an easily accessible sample in dogs, the analysis of clock gene expression in this tissue could be useful to investigate the adaptive capacity of this species housed in different environmental conditions linked to the owner's lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Calapai
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Scieces, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Annalisa Guercio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Giusi Macaluso
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Ilenia Giacchino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Vincenza Cannella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
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Cocco R, Sechi S, Giannetto C, Rizzo M, Piccione G, Arfuso F. An In-Depth Look at Fonni's Dog Behavior under Different Outdoor Conditions. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:678. [PMID: 38473063 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the common social and communicative behaviors of the Fonni's Dog under different outdoor conditions. For this study, 70 adult dogs (3-7 years; 32 intact males, 38 intact females) belonging to the Fonni's breed were used. A total of 35 dogs were kept in kennels and 35 were free-ranging dogs in their sheep/goat livestock units. A behavioral repertoire was adapted from the literature and an ethogram was filled in for each dog. All dogs were evaluated in the presence of the owner. Fisher's exact test, following Bonferroni's correction, was used to test possible differences in the categorical variables (presence or absence of the behavior) between free-ranging dogs and dogs kept in kennels. The study revealed that several categories of the dogs' body language were associated with the management condition. However, the breed motivations (guarding and defense of the territory) were satisfied both in kennel and in the animals who were free in the property. The current study suggests a good behavioral balance of the Fonni's Dogs which could be attributed to correct communication between dogs and owners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Cocco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Sara Sechi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Interlandi C, Tabbì M, Di Pietro S, D’Angelo F, Costa GL, Arfuso F, Giudice E, Licata P, Macrì D, Crupi R, Gugliandolo E. Improved quality of life and pain relief in mature horses with osteoarthritis after oral transmucosal cannabidiol oil administration as part of an analgesic regimen. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1341396. [PMID: 38379920 PMCID: PMC10876772 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1341396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of oral cannabidiol (CBD) administration in addition to a conventional analgesic protocol on the clinical signs of 20 horses with mild joint osteoarthritis. The horses were randomly assigned to either the control group (C group) or the cannabidiol group (CBD group). Both groups were treated with phenylbutazone for 5 days. The CBD group received 0.03 mg/kg cannabidiol in hemp oil orally once daily for 14 days in addition to phenylbutazone treatment. All subjects were monitored for clinical parameters, oxidative status and blood counts. Pain and quality of life were also assessed using the Horse Chronic Pain Scale (HCPS). The CBD group showed a significant reduction in heart rate, respiratory rate, white blood cell count and oxidative stress (malondialdehyde lipid peroxidation). A significant reduction in HCPS scores was seen in both groups. Lower scores were recorded in the CBD group (3 med; range: 2/4) than in the C group (7 med; range: 4/10). The addition of a cannabidiol-based product to an analgesic protocol was well tolerated and showed positive effects on the treated subjects, improving their quality of life and pain relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Interlandi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Marco Tabbì
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Simona Di Pietro
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Giovanna L. Costa
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Patrizia Licata
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Rosalia Crupi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Enrico Gugliandolo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Fazio F, Costa A, Capparucci F, Costa G, Parrino V, Arfuso F. Automated Hematological Approach and Protein Electrophoretic Pattern in Tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus): An Innovative and Experimental Model for Aquaculture. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:392. [PMID: 38338035 PMCID: PMC10854657 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the usefulness of two innovative automated methods (automated blood count counters and flow cytometry) for hematological investigation in Tilapia to make a contribution to the clinical diagnostics of this farmed species. Moreover, serum total proteins and their electrophoretic fractions (prealbumin, albumin, α-, β-, and γ-fraction), as health condition indicators, were assessed. The analysis of serum total proteins and electrophoretic fraction showed a normal and typical electrophoretic pattern of healthy fish (serum total proteins, 3.70 ± 0.62 g/dL; prealbumin, 0.44 ± 0.20 g/dL; albumin, 1.17 ± 0.66 g/dL; α-fraction, 1.49 ± 0.64 g/dL; β-fraction, 0.32 ± 0.16 g/dL; and γ-fraction, 0.29 ± 0.13 g/dL). The relationships between the values of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and thrombocytes (TCs) obtained with the two automated methods were determined using Pearson correlation analysis. The results showed a significant positive correlation between automatic blood cell counting and flow cytometry analysis for RBCs (r = 0.97, p < 0.0001) and WBCs (r = 0.91, p < 0.0001), whereas no correlation was found for TCs (r = -0.11, p = 0.66). The preliminary results gathered in this study seem to highlight the usefulness of the new analytical techniques herein investigated in tilapia, suggesting their application in the hematological investigation of farmed fish species and their usefulness for monitoring the health and well-being of fish reared in aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci, 98168 Messina, Italy;
| | | | - Fabiano Capparucci
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (V.P.)
| | - Gregorio Costa
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Parrino
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (V.P.)
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci, 98168 Messina, Italy;
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Aliko V, Vasjari L, Ibrahimi E, Impellitteri F, Karaj A, Gjonaj G, Piccione G, Arfuso F, Faggio C, Istifli ES. "From shadows to shores"-quantitative analysis of CuO nanoparticle-induced apoptosis and DNA damage in fish erythrocytes: A multimodal approach combining experimental, image-based quantification, docking and molecular dynamics. Sci Total Environ 2024; 906:167698. [PMID: 37832669 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
The usage of copper (II) oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) has significantly expanded across industries and biomedical fields. However, the potential toxic effects on non-target organisms and humans lack comprehensive understanding due to limited research on molecular mechanisms. With this study, by combining the 96 h in vivo exposure of crucian carp fish, Carassius carassius, to sub-lethal CuO NPs doses (0.5 and 1 mg/dL) with image-based quantification, and docking and molecular dynamics approaches, we aimed to understand the mechanism of CuO NPs-induced cyto-genotoxicity in the fish erythrocytes. The results revealed that both doses of copper NPs used were toxic to erythrocytes causing oxidative stress response and serious red blood cell morphological abnormalities, and genotoxicity. Docking and 10-ns molecular dynamics confirmed favorable interactions (ΔG = -2.07 kcal mol-1) and structural stability of Band3-CuO NP complex, mainly through formation of H-bonds, implying the potential of CuO NPs to induce mitotic nuclear abnormalities in C. carassius erythrocytes via Band3 inhibition. Moreover, conventional and multiple ligand simultaneous docking with DNA revealed that single, double and triple CuO NPs bind preferentially to AT-rich regions consistently in the minor grooves of DNA. Of note, the DNA-binding strength subtantially increased (ΔG = -2.13 kcal mol-1, ΔG = -4.08 kcal mol-1, and ΔG = -6.03 kcal mol-1, respectively) with an increasing number of docked CuO NPs, suggesting that direct structural perturbation on DNA could also count for the molecular basis of in-vivo induced DNA damage in C. carassius erythrocytes. This study introduces the novel term "erythrotope" to describe comprehensive red blood cell morphological abnormalities. It proves to be a reliable and cost-effective biomarker for evaluating allostatic erythrocyte load in response to metallic nanoparticle exposure, serving as a distinctive fingerprint to assess fish erythrocyte health and physiological fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valbona Aliko
- University of Tirana, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Biology, Tirana, Albania.
| | - Ledia Vasjari
- University of Tirana, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Biology, Tirana, Albania.
| | - Eliana Ibrahimi
- University of Tirana, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Biology, Tirana, Albania.
| | - Federica Impellitteri
- University of Messina, Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, Messina, Italy.
| | - Ambra Karaj
- University of Tirana, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Biology, Tirana, Albania.
| | - Grejsi Gjonaj
- University of Tirana, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Biology, Tirana, Albania.
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- University of Messina, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Messina, Italy.
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- University of Messina, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Messina, Italy.
| | - Caterina Faggio
- University of Messina, Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, Messina, Italy.
| | - Erman S Istifli
- University of Cukurova, Faculty of Science and Literature, Department of Biology, Adana, Turkey
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Abbate JM, Arfuso F, Riolo K, Giudice E, Brunetti B, Lanteri G. Upregulation of miR-21 and pro-inflammatory cytokine genes IL-6 and TNF-α in promoting a pro-tumorigenic microenvironment in canine mammary carcinomas. Res Vet Sci 2023; 164:105014. [PMID: 37741040 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the gene expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in canine mammary tumors (CMTs), and correlated them with gene expression of miRNAs expected to regulate the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Furthermore, gene expression of cytokines and miRNAs involved in tumor cell proliferation and invasion (i.e. miR-21; miR-124; miR-145) were correlated with tumor proliferation index (Ki67 index) to determine the prognostic value in CMTs. Twenty-six canine mammary samples were used, including 22 CMTs and 4 control samples. MiR-21, IL-6 and TNF-α were upregulated in mammary carcinomas compared with controls (p < 0.05). MiR-146b was downregulated in CMTs compared with control cases (p < 0.05). IL-6 expression showed a significant positive correlation with miR-21 and a negative correlation with miR-146b; while, TNF-α gene expression was positively correlated with miR-21 and miR-145 in mammary carcinomas. In carcinomas, the Ki67 index correlated positively with gene expression of IL-6 and miR-21 and negatively correlated with miR-145 and miR-146b. Specifically, gene expression of IL-6 and miR-21 was positively correlated with ki67 index >33.3%, whereas, expression of miR-145 and miR-146b was negatively correlated with ki67 index <33.3%. Results reinforce the concept of interaction between tumor cells and inflammatory cells within the TME, with a central role of IL-6 and TNF-α. Since the upregulation of miR-21 reflects the gene overexpression of interleukins and the high proliferation index of tumor cells, this miRNA may be considered a biomarker with prognostic value in CMTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Maria Abbate
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci Snc, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci Snc, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Kristian Riolo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci Snc, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Brunetti
- Department of Medical Veterinary Sciences, University of Bologna, via Tolara di Sopra, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Lanteri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy
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Banaee M, Impellitteri F, Multisanti CR, Sureda A, Arfuso F, Piccione G, Faggio C. Evaluating Silymarin Extract as a Potent Antioxidant Supplement in Diazinon-Exposed Rainbow Trout: Oxidative Stress and Biochemical Parameter Analysis. Toxics 2023; 11:737. [PMID: 37755747 PMCID: PMC10535037 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11090737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of diazinon on fish, focusing on hepatotoxic biomarkers and the potential protective effects of silymarin supplementation. One hundred eighty rainbow trout were randomly assigned to four groups: control, diazinon exposed (0.1 mg L-1), silymarin supplemented (400 mg kg-1), and diazinon + silymarin. Blood samples and liver tissue were collected after 7, 14, and 21 days of exposure to analyze biochemical parameters and oxidative biomarkers. Diazinon exposure in fish resulted in liver damage, as indicated by increased antioxidant enzyme activities in the hepatocytes. Silymarin showed the potential to mitigate this damage by reducing oxidative stress and restoring enzyme activities. Nevertheless, diazinon increased creatine phosphokinase activity, which may not be normalized by silymarin. Exposure to diazinon increased glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels, whereas total protein, albumin, and globulin levels were significantly decreased in fish. However, silymarin controlled and maintained these levels within the normal range. Diazinon increased creatinine, urea, uric acid, and ammonia contents. Silymarin could regulate creatinine, urea, and uric acid levels while having limited effectiveness on ammonia excretion. Furthermore, diazinon increased malondialdehyde in hepatocytes, whereas administration of silymarin could restore normal malondialdehyde levels. Overall, silymarin showed potential as a therapeutic treatment for mitigating oxidative damage induced by diazinon in fish, but its effectiveness on creatine phosphokinase, glutathione reductase, and ammonia may be limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Banaee
- Aquaculture Department, Faculty of Natural Resources and the Environment, Behbahan Khatam Alanbia University of Technology, Behbahan 6361663973, Iran
| | - Federica Impellitteri
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy (F.A.)
| | - Cristiana Roberta Multisanti
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy;
| | - Antoni Sureda
- Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), and CIBEROBN Fisiopatología de la Obesidad la Nutrición, University of Balearic Islands, 07122 Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy (F.A.)
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy (F.A.)
| | - Caterina Faggio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy;
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Floridia V, Giuffrè L, Giosa D, Arfuso F, Aragona F, Fazio F, Chen C, Song C, Romeo O, D'Alessandro E. Comparison of the Faecal Microbiota Composition Following a Dairy By-Product Supplemented Diet in Nero Siciliano and Large White × Landrace Pig Breeds. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2323. [PMID: 37508100 PMCID: PMC10376647 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study compared the faecal microbiota composition of two pig breeds (autochthonous vs. commercial) to understand what happens after the integration of liquid whey in the diet and what the role of the host genetic is. The trial was conducted for 60 days, and the faecal microbiota composition was investigated at three time points, T0, T1 (after 30 days) and T2 (after 60 days) in 30 female pigs (20 commercial crossbred and 10 Nero Siciliano pigs). The animals were divided into four groups (two control and two treatment groups). Generally, in both breeds, Firmicutes (51%) and Bacteroidota (36%) were the most abundant phylum whereas Prevotella, Treponema and Lactobacillus were the most abundant genera. The two breeds have a different reaction to a liquid whey diet. In fact, as shown by PERMANOVA analysis, the liquid whey significantly (p < 0.001) affects the microbiota composition of crossbreeds while not having an effect on the microbiota of the Nero Siciliano. Despite this, in both breeds Bifidobacterium and Ruminococcus have been positively influenced by liquid whey and they promote intestinal health, improve immunity, increase performance, and feed efficiency. In conclusion, the integration of liquid whey had a different effect on the Nero Siciliano and crossbred pig breeds, emphasizing the importance of the host genetic profile in determining the faecal bacterial composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Floridia
- Animal Production Unit, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Letterio Giuffrè
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Domenico Giosa
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Animal Production Unit, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Aragona
- Animal Production Unit, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Animal Production Unit, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Cai Chen
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Chengy Song
- College of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Orazio Romeo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D'Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Enrico D'Alessandro
- Animal Production Unit, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Acri G, Testagrossa B, Piccione G, Arfuso F, Giudice E, Giannetto C. Central and Peripheral Fatigue Evaluation during Physical Exercise in Athletic Horses by Means of Raman Spectroscopy. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2201. [PMID: 37443998 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The evaluation of the performance levels in athletic horses is of major importance to prevent sports injuries. Raman spectroscopy is an innovative technique that allows for a rapid evaluation of biomolecules in biological fluids. It also permits qualitative and quantitative sample analyses, which lead to the simultaneous determination of the components of the examined biological fluids. On the basis of this, the Raman spectroscopy technique was applied on serum samples collected from five Italian Saddle horses subjected to a standardized obstacle course preceded by a warm-up to evaluate the applicability of this technique for the assessment of central and peripheral fatigue in athletic horses. Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture in a vacutainer tube with a clot activator before exercise, immediately after exercise, and 30 min and 1 h after the end of the obstacle course. Observing the obtained Raman spectra, the major changes due to the experimental conditions appeared in the (1300-1360) cm-1 and (1385-1520) cm-1 bands. In the (1300-1360) cm-1 band, lipids and tryptophan were identified; in the (1385-1520) cm-1 band, leucine, glycine, isoleucine, lactic acid, tripeptide, adenosine, and beta carotene were identified. A significant effect of exercise was recorded on all the sub-bands. In particular, a change immediately after exercise versus before exercise was found. Moreover, the mean lactic concentration was positively correlated with the Raman area of the sub-band assigned to lactic acid. In this context, the application of Raman spectroscopy on blood serum samples represents a useful technique for secondary-structure protein identification to investigate the metabolic changes that occur in athletic horses during physical exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Acri
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Testagrossa
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci n 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci n 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci n 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci n 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Arfuso F, Piccione G, Guttadauro A, Monteverde V, Giudice E, Giannetto C. Serum C-reactive Protein and Protein Electrophoretic Pattern Correlated With Age in Horses. J Equine Vet Sci 2023; 126:104561. [PMID: 37160186 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Inflammaging or chronic, low-grade inflammation is a phenomenon characterizing age-related pathologies and natural processes in aging tissues. This study aimed to investigate the effect of age on the serum levels of C-reactive protein and protein electrophoretic pattern in horses. Thirty Italian Saddle horses from the same horse training center, were enrolled and divided in three equal groups according to their age: Group A (2-4 years), Group B (7-10 years), Group C (15-20 years). Blood samples were collected from each horse to evaluate hematological parameters and the serum concentration of C-reactive protein (CRP), total proteins, albumin, α1-, α-2, β1-, β2- and γ-globulins. One-way analysis of variance showed an age-related difference in the concentration of CRP, α1- and α2-globulins (P < 0.001) which increased with aging. Albumin and albumin:globulin ratio showed lower values in Groups B and C than Group A (P < 0.001). Age of horses showed a negative correlation with the values of albumin, and a positive correlation with CRP, α1- and α2-globulins concentration. The results of the current study suggest an increased acute phase response in adult and old horses compared to young ones. As α-globulin fractions include many other acute phase proteins (APPs) in addition to CRP, further studies to assess what other APPs could be involved in chronic inflammation or "inflammaging" are recommended in horse in order to improve knowledge on the key inflammatory biomarkers during aging in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy..
| | | | - Vincenzo Monteverde
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Sicily, A. Mirri, Via Gino Marinuzzi, Palermo, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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12
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Giannetto C, Arfuso F, Giudice E, Guercio A, Cannella V, Monteverde V, Piccione G. Interplay Among the Daily Rhythm of the Thyroid Hormones, Uncoupling Protein 1 and the Clock Gene Per2 in Horses. J Equine Vet Sci 2023; 126:104496. [PMID: 37088111 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
During husbandry, domestic animals are exposed to many factors that can influence their circadian physiology organization leading to an increase in animals' discomfort. Thermal homeostasis is at the basis of animal wellness, the aim of the present study was to investigate the daily fluctuation of serum concentrations of 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) in association with the daily fluctuation of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) and clock gene Per2 in healthy horses housed in individual box, to improve the knowledge on this matter. Seven clinically healthy female Italian Saddle horses (8-10 years old, 510 ± 32 kg), were housed in individual boxes under natural photoperiod and environmental temperature and humidity. Blood samples were collected at 4-hour intervals over a 48-hour period, for the assessment of T3, T4, UCP1, and clock gene Per2. The application of two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) on raw data showed a statistically significant effect of time of day on all studied parameters. A robust daily rhythm of T3, T4, and Per2 was observed. T3 showed a diurnal rhythm, with the acrophase at about 5 hours after sunrise, T4 acrophase was observed in the middle of the scotophase, Per2 acrophase was observed close to sunrise. In conclusion, we can claim that in horses kept under natural environmental conditions and not subjected to thermal stress, there is a daily rhythm of thyroid hormones associated with a daily rhythm of Per2 expression in the peripheral blood, and UCP1 remained constant during the two days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannetto
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Annalisa Guercio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenza Cannella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Monteverde
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy.
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Arfuso F, Rizzo M, Giannetto C, Giudice E, Piccione G, Fazio F, Cirincione R, Cassata G, Cicero L. Inflammatory-like status and acute stress response in horses after road transport. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9858. [PMID: 37330619 PMCID: PMC10276830 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37069-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the change of white blood cell count, serum concentration of cortisol, C-reactive protein, albumin and globulin fractions in horse after road transport, and to assess the linkage among hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) and inflammatory reaction. From 10 horses blood samples were collected at rest, before road transport (218 km) (BT); after unloaded (AT), 30 and 60 min after unloaded (AT30 and AT60) in order to assess white blood cell count (WBC), serum cortisol, C-reactive protein (CRP), total proteins, albumin, α1-, α-2, β1-, β2- and γ-globulins. WBC, cortisol, CRP, α1-, α-2 and β2-globulins values increased after road transport than rest condition (p < 0.001). Albumin and A/G ratio showed lower values after road transport than rest (p < 0.001). Pearson's test showed a negative correlation between cortisol and the values of WBC, CRP, α1-, α2-, β1-, β2- globulins, and a positive correlation between WBC and serum concentration of CRP, α1- and α2-, β1-, β2-globulins at AT and AT30. The results showed that road transport evokes an inflammatory like-status in horses. Moreover, the activation of HPA and the onset of acute phase reaction in response to road transport seem to be interconnected with effects on horse's immune status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Roberta Cirincione
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cassata
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", 90129, Palermo, Italy
| | - Luca Cicero
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", 90129, Palermo, Italy
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Aragona F, Arfuso F, Fazio F, De Caro S, Giudice E, Monteverde V, Piccione G, Giannetto C. Circadian Variation of Peripheral Blood Cells in Horses Maintained in Different Environmental and Management Conditions. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1865. [PMID: 37889772 PMCID: PMC10251899 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of our study was to analyze circadian rhythm of the hematological profile of horses housed in a loose box and paddock during the different seasons (spring, summer, autumn, and winter). Blood samples were performed every 4 h for 48 consecutive hours. Red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), white blood cells (WBCs), platelets (PLTs), and leukocyte subpopulations (neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes) were analyzed, and, at the same time, environmental conditions were recorded. A statistically significant effect of housing conditions (p < 0.0001) was observed on all hematological values except for WBC during winter and for neutrophils (p < 0.0001) during spring and autumn. A statistically significant effect of season (p < 0.0001) was found for RBC, HCT, and PLT and for all leukocyte cells (p < 0.0001) except for basophils. The single Cosinor method revealed a daily rhythm of hematological parameters during spring in both groups, and a daily rhythm for lymphocytes and neutrophils was observed during spring and summer in horses kept in a loose box and during winter in horses housed in a paddock. Our results revealed that the response of the immune system is regulated by circadian physiology. Knowledge of the periodic temporal structure of mammals should be considered when evaluating animals' adaptation to temporizations imposed by the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Aragona
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci, 98168 Messina, Italy; (F.A.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (E.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci, 98168 Messina, Italy; (F.A.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (E.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci, 98168 Messina, Italy; (F.A.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (E.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Salvatore De Caro
- Department of Engineering, University of Messina, C/Da Di Dio (S. Agata), 98166 Messina, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci, 98168 Messina, Italy; (F.A.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (E.G.); (G.P.)
| | | | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci, 98168 Messina, Italy; (F.A.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (E.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Palatucci, 98168 Messina, Italy; (F.A.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (E.G.); (G.P.)
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15
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Sutera AM, Arfuso F, Tardiolo G, Riggio V, Fazio F, Aiese Cigliano R, Paytuví A, Piccione G, Zumbo A. Effect of a Co-Feed Liquid Whey-Integrated Diet on Crossbred Pigs' Fecal Microbiota. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1750. [PMID: 37889679 PMCID: PMC10252047 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This study assessed the potential effect of a co-feed liquid whey-integrated diet on the fecal microbiota of 14 crossbred pigs. The experimental design was as follows: seven pigs were in the control group, fed with a control feed, and seven were in the experimental group, fed with the same control feed supplemented daily with liquid whey. The collection of fecal samples was conducted on each animal before the dietary treatment (T0) and one (T1), and two (T2) months after the beginning of the co-feed integration. In addition, blood samples were collected from each pig at the same time points in order to evaluate the physiological parameters. Taxonomic analysis showed a bacterial community dominated by Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Spirochaetes, and Proteobacteria phyla that populated the crossbred pig feces. The diversity metrics suggested that the co-feed supplementation affected some alpha diversity indexes of the fecal microbiota. In addition, the differential abundance analysis at the genus level revealed significant differences for various genera, suggesting that the liquid whey supplementation potentially influenced a part of the bacterial community over time. Spearman's correlations revealed that the differential abundant genera identified are positively or negatively correlated with the physiological parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Sutera
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, Via Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.M.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (G.P.); (A.Z.)
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, Via Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.M.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (G.P.); (A.Z.)
| | - Giuseppe Tardiolo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, Via Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.M.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (G.P.); (A.Z.)
| | - Valentina Riggio
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK;
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, Via Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.M.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (G.P.); (A.Z.)
| | | | - Andreu Paytuví
- Sequentia Biotech SL, Carrer del Dr. Trueta 179, 08005 Barcelona, Spain; (R.A.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, Via Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.M.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (G.P.); (A.Z.)
| | - Alessandro Zumbo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, Via Palatucci snc, 98168 Messina, Italy; (A.M.S.); (F.A.); (F.F.); (G.P.); (A.Z.)
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16
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Saoca C, Arfuso F, Giannetto C, Piccione G, Fazio F. Seasonal Biodistribution of Some Trace Elements (Cd, Pb, Cr, Hg) and "Blood Biomarkers" Response in Mugil cephalus (Linnaeus, 1758). Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:1987-1995. [PMID: 35508888 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03272-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study had a purpose to evaluate the seasonal biodistribution of some trace elements (cadmium, Cd; Lead, Pb; chrome, Cr; and mercury, Hg) in different tissues (muscle, gills, liver, stomach, and intestine) of striped mullet Mugil cephalus (Linnaeus, 1758) and the hematological and biochemical responses of this species to aquatic pollution by trace metals. For this purpose, 80 M. cephalus (20 for each season) were captured in three different stations of Faro Lake, Messina, Sicily. Biometric indices (weight, fork length, and total length) of each fish were registered. The physico-chemical parameters of the water of the study area were also measured, and the content of trace elements in water and sediment was determined. The hematological (white blood cell, WBC; red blood cell, RBC; hemoglobin concentration, Hb; hematocrit, Hct; mean corpuscular volume, MCV; mean corpuscular hemoglobin, MCH; mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, MCHC; thrombocytes count, TC), biochemical parameters (aspartate aminotransferase, AST; alanine aminotransferase, ALT; alkaline phosphatase, ALP; lactate dehydrogenase, LDH), and the seasonal concentration of the trace elements in the different tissues of M. cephalus were assessed. Our results showed a different biodistribution of the trace elements in M. cephalus and significant variations of the blood parameters in the different seasons. This research provides a valid contribute to environmental biomonitoring techniques useful in aquatic pollution control and water management. It also contributes to broadening the studies on the improvement of the health and sustainability of aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Saoca
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy.
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Abbate JM, Arfuso F, Riolo K, Capparucci F, Brunetti B, Lanteri G. Epigenetics in Canine Mammary Tumors: Upregulation of miR-18a and miR-18b Oncogenes Is Associated with Decreased ERS1 Target mRNA Expression and ERα Immunoexpression in Highly Proliferating Carcinomas. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13061086. [PMID: 36978627 PMCID: PMC10044548 DOI: 10.3390/ani13061086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The expression of miRNAs is one of the main epigenetic mechanisms responsible for the regulation of gene expression in mammals, and in cancer, miRNAs participate by regulating the expression of protein-coding cancer-associated genes. In canine mammary tumors (CMTs), the ESR1 gene encodes for ERα, and represents a major target gene for miR-18a and miR-18b, previously found to be overexpressed in mammary carcinomas. A loss in ERα expression in CMTs is commonly associated with poor prognosis, and it is noteworthy that the downregulation of the ESR1 would appear to be more epigenetic than genetic in nature. In this study, the expression of ESR1 mRNA in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) canine mammary tumors (CMTs) was evaluated and compared with the expression levels of miR18a and miR18b, both assessed via RT-qPCR. Furthermore, the possible correlation between the miRNA expression data and the immunohistochemical prognostic factors (ERα immunoexpression; Ki67 proliferative index) was explored. A total of twenty-six FFPE mammary samples were used, including 22 CMTs (7 benign; 15 malignant) and four control samples (three normal mammary glands and one case of lobular hyperplasia). The obtained results demonstrate that miR-18a and miR-18b are upregulated in malignant CMTs, negatively correlating with the expression of target ESR1 mRNA. Of note, the upregulation of miRNAs strictly reflects the progressive loss of ERα immunoexpression and increased tumor cell proliferation as measured using the Ki67 index. The results suggest a central role of miR-18a and miR-18b in the pathophysiology of canine mammary tumors as potential epigenetic mechanisms involved in ERα downregulation. Moreover, as miRNA expression reflects ERα protein status and a high proliferative index, miR-18a and miR-18b may represent promising biomarkers with prognostic value. More detailed investigations on a larger number of cases are needed to better understand the influence of these miRNAs in canine mammary tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Maria Abbate
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Kristian Riolo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Fabiano Capparucci
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Brunetti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Lanteri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy
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Lopreiato V, Minuti A, Trevisi E, Piccione G, Ferronato G, Loor JJ, Britti D, Liotta L, Giannetto C, Arfuso F. Maternal treatment with pegbovigrastim influences growth performance and immune-metabolic status of calves during the pre-weaning period. Res Vet Sci 2023; 158:151-163. [PMID: 37012186 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the immune-metabolic status and growth performance of Simmental calves born from cows subjected to pegbovigrastim administration 7 days before calving. Eight calves born from cows subjected to pegbovigrastim administration (PEG group) and 9 calves born from untreated cows (CTR group) were used. Growth measurements and blood samples were collected from birth to 60 d of age. The PEG group had lower body weight from 28 up to 60 d of age (P < 0.01), lower heart girth (P < 0.05), lower weekly and total average daily gain values (P < 0.05) than the CTR group throughout the monitoring period. A decrease in milk replacer (MR) intake was observed in the PEG group compared with the CTR group around 20-28 d of age (P < 0.01). The PEG group had lower values of γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) at d 1 of age (P < 0.05), Zn at 21 and 28 d of age (P < 0.05), hemoglobin, MCH and MCHC at 54 and 60 d of age (P < 0.01), and higher urea concentration at 21 and 28 d of age (P < 0.05) compared with the CTR group. Lower values of retinol (P < 0.05), tocopherol (P < 0.01), mean myeloperoxidase index (P < 0.05) and higher total reactive oxygen metabolites (P < 0.05) and myeloperoxidase (P < 0.05) were also detected in the PEG group. In light of the results gathered in the current study, it can be speculated that activation of the cow's immune system by pegbovigrastim could have influenced the immune competence, growth performance as well as the balance between oxidant and antioxidant indices of the newborn calf.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Lopreiato
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci, snc, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Andrea Minuti
- Department of Animal Sciences, Food and Nutrition (DiANA), Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122 Piacenza, Italy.
| | - Erminio Trevisi
- Department of Animal Sciences, Food and Nutrition (DiANA), Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci, snc, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Giulia Ferronato
- Department of Civil Engineering, Architecture, Environment, Land Planning and Mathematics (DICATAM), Università degli Studi di Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Juan J Loor
- Department of Animal Sciences and Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801, United States of America
| | - Domenico Britti
- Interdepartmental Services Centre of Veterinary for Human and Animal Health, Department of Health Science, Magna Græcia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Luigi Liotta
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci, snc, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci, snc, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Giovanni Palatucci, snc, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Fazio F, Habib SS, Naz S, Ullah M, Nawaz G, Nava V, Piccione G, Arfuso F. Withania coagulans fruit extract: a possible useful additive in ameliorating growth and immunity of Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822). Nat Prod Res 2023; 37:803-808. [PMID: 35707892 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2022.2089139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the Withania coagulans fruit extract's effects on growth and haematological parameters of Labeo rohita. Healthy fish (n = 120) were divided in four groups. Experimental diet was prepared with different extraction of W. coagulans (0%, 1%, 1.5% and 2%). Diet was provided for eight weeks to all groups except the control group which fed on basal diet. The 1.5% and 2% W. coagulans extracts lead improvement in feed conversion ratio and specific fish growth rate; haematological parameters in fish group fed with 2% of W. coagulans showed increased in WBC, RBC, Hb, MCHC, PCV. The values of plasma proteins and lysozyme activity were higher in the experimental group compared control group. Fish fed with W. coagulans extracts showed increased of immunity and less mortality respect to others. It suggested that W. coagulans could be considered valuable support for the improve growth and immunity in Labeo rohita.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Saira Naz
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Lahore Sargodha Campus, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Mujeeb Ullah
- Department of Zoology, Islamia College University Peshawar KP, Pakistan
| | - Ghazala Nawaz
- Department of Botany, Kohat University of Science and Technology KP, Pakistan
| | - Vincenzo Nava
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Giannetto C, Cerutti RD, Scaglione MC, Arfuso F, Pennisi M, Giudice E, Piccione G, Zumbo A. Real-Time Measurement of the Daily Total Locomotor Behavior in Calves Reared in an Intensive Management System for the Possible Application in Precision Livestock Farming. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10010064. [PMID: 36669065 PMCID: PMC9866244 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10010064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Housing confinement, adaptation to different light/dark conditions, and social deprivation could modify the amount of total locomotor behavior of calves recommended for their psychophysical health. Total locomotor behavior was recorded by means of an activity data logger every 5 min for 6 consecutive days. To do that eight clinically healthy 30-day-old Holstein calves living in calf boxes under natural photoperiod and environmental conditions were enrolled. ANOVA (analysis of variance) showed a statistical effect of the day of monitoring and animal. In the temporal distribution of the resting-activity frequency, it was observed that the calves presented periods of total locomotor behavior with the existence of two peaks, one between 06:00-07:00 and another between 17:00-18:00, which corresponds to time of food intake. In all animals, a diurnal daily rhythm of total locomotor behavior was observed during time of monitoring. Intrasubject and intersubject variabilities were statistically different in mesor, amplitude, and robustness of rhythm. In conclusion, the total locomotor behavior showed a diurnal daily rhythmicity in 30-day-old calves. The characteristics of rhythm were different from individual to individual and from day to day. The recorded intersubject variability must be taken in consideration during the monitoring of farm animals and justifies the application of the device to each animal, as precision livestock farming suggests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Raul Delmar Cerutti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad National del Litoral, Pellegrini 2750, Argentina
| | | | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Melissa Pennisi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Alessandro Zumbo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Arfuso F, Minuti A, Liotta L, Giannetto C, Trevisi E, Piccione G, Lopreiato V. Stress and inflammatory response of cows and their calves during peripartum and early neonatal period. Theriogenology 2023; 196:157-166. [PMID: 36423510 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Stress, inflammatory response, and their relationship were investigated in Simmental cows during the transition period (N = 8; 5 multiparous and 3 primiparous) and in their calves (N = 8; 5 heifers and 3 bulls). From cows, blood was collected at days -21 (±4), 0, +1, +7, and +21 days relative to calving. From calves, blood was collected after birth before colostrum intake (0) and then at 1, 7, and 15 days of age. Cortisol, Interleukin 6 (IL-6) and haptoglobin concentration was assessed by ELISA technique; white blood cells (WBC) were assessed using an ADVIA 2120 Hematology System machine. One-way ANOVA showed an effect of time for all the investigated parameters (P < 0.001) except for lymphocytes in peripartal cows. At calving and 1 d after, cortisol concentration was negatively correlated with levels of IL-6, WBC, and monocytes, whereas levels of IL-6 were positively correlated with WBC, neutrophils, and monocytes count. Cortisol, IL-6, haptoglobin, WBC and all leukocyte populations were affected by the age of neonatal calves (P < 0.001) except for neutrophils. A negative correlation between cortisol and IL-6, neutrophils, monocytes and haptoglobin was found at 15 days of age. A positive correlation between IL-6 and haptoglobin at day 15 of age, and with neutrophils and monocytes at days 7 and 15 of age was found. A positive correlation was obtained between cortisol levels measured in cows around calving and those obtained in calves after birth before colostrum intake (r = 0.83), and between IL-6 concentrations obtained from cows at calving and 1 d after and those obtained in calves at day 1 of age, after the colostrum intake (r = 0.93 and 0.79, respectively). The study suggests that immune function of peripartal cows is in an active state and that, in addition to other well-known factors driving the changes of parameters herein investigated, cortisol could have a role in the immune-modulatory adjustment during peripartum in cows. Furthermore, it can be hypothesized that cortisol is transferred from the cow to newborn calf through the placenta only and not through colostrum, whereas IL-6 levels in calves during the 24 h after birth seem to be influenced by IL-6 values measured in cows around calving due to its transfer through colostrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Andrea Minuti
- Department of Animal Sciences, Food and Nutrition (DiANA), Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Luigi Liotta
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy.
| | - Erminio Trevisi
- Department of Animal Sciences, Food and Nutrition (DiANA), Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Lopreiato
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
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22
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Cocco R, Rizzo M, Carta C, Arfuso F, Piccione G, Luridiana S, Crovace A, Passino ES, Sechi S. Immune and Inflammatory Response of Donkeys (Equus asinus) Tested Positive to Tick-borne Pathogens. J Equine Vet Sci 2023; 120:104190. [PMID: 36509242 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2022.104190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Among infection diseases transmitted by arthropods, the equine vector-borne diseases transmitted by ticks represent an emerging problem worldwide due to their morbidity and mortality and, in some cases, to their zoonotic relevance. Understanding the host immune/inflammatory response to the pathogens is crucial to develop effective methods of diagnosis, control and treatment. This study aimed to evaluate red blood cells (RBC), hematocrit (Hct), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell hemoglobin content (MCH), mean cell hemoglobin (MCHC), platelets (PLT), white blood cells (WBC), leukocytes populations, and serum protein pattern of Sardinian donkeys scored positive to tick-borne pathogens. Thirty donkeys were dived in five groups, six subjects each: Group 1, tested negative to pathogens (control group); Group 2, donkeys infected by Theileria equi; Group 3, donkeys infected by Ehrlichia equi; Group 4, donkeys infected by Rickettsia Rickettsii; Group 5, donkeys co-infected by T. equi, E. equi and R. Rickettsii. From donkeys blood samples were collected and haematological and serum protein profiles were assessed. One-way ANOVA showed lower red blood cells, haemoglobin, platelets, lymphocytes and neutrophils values, and higher eosinophils, basophils, serum total proteins, α2-, β- and γ- globulins values in donkeys infected by one or more pathogens compared to control group (P < .05). The study highlighted an immune and inflammatory response of donkeys positive to E. equi, T. equi, and R. Rickettsii and represents a starting point for further investigations in the field to fill the gaps currently existing on the complex interwoven relationship between the pathogen and host immune and inflammatory response in equids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Cocco
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Carlo Carta
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, Messina, Italy.
| | | | - Alberto Crovace
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Sara Sechi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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Cerutti RD, Scaglione MC, Arfuso F, Giudice E, Piccione G, Fazio F, Giannetto C. Suckling lamb presence influences the daily rhythm of total locomotor activity in grazing Pampinta dairy ewes. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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24
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Giannetto C, Cerutti RD, Scaglione MC, Fazio F, Aragona F, Arfuso F, Zumbo A, Piccione G. Simultaneous recording of subcutaneous temperature and total locomotor activity in Bos taurus and Bos indicus raised in a subtropical region of Argentina. Trop Anim Health Prod 2022; 54:371. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-022-03365-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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D'Alessandro E, Arfuso F, Floridia V, Tardiolo G, Fazio F, Giannetto C, Piccione G, Zumbo A. Different genotype and a liquid whey-supplemented diet influence the resilience of pigs through immune-modulation and anti-inflammatory response. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1046101. [PMID: 36439344 PMCID: PMC9683634 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1046101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated (i) whether weight gain and levels of inflammatory and immune markers including white blood cells (WBC), serum haptoglobin, C-reactive protein, albumin, and globulin fractions change between the Nero Siciliano pig breed and the crossbreed Landrace x Large White (LxLW) reared under the same environmental and farming conditions; and (ii) whether a liquid whey diet supplementation affects the investigated parameters in both genotypes. In this study, 10 crossbreed LxLW and 10 Nero Siciliano pigs were given control feed, representing the control groups (CTRC and CTRNS), whereas 10 crossbreed LxLW and 10 Nero Siciliano pigs were given control feed supplemented with liquid whey for 2 months, representing the experimental groups (WC and WNS). From each pig, body weight and blood were collected before experimental diet supplementation (T0), and one (T1) and two (T2) months after the start of the diet supplemented with whey. The white blood cell count (WBC), serum haptoglobin, C-reactive protein, total proteins, albumin and globulin fraction concentration were assessed. Two-way analysis of variance showed an increasing trend of body weight both in the control and experimental groups of the two pig genotypes throughout the monitoring period (p < 0.01) without a significant effect of genotype and diet (p > 0.05). The concentration of haptoglobin, β1- and β2-globulins was affected by pig genotype, diet supplementation, and time (p < 0.01). The values of WBC, C-reactive protein, albumin, α-globulins, and A/G ratio were affected by diet supplementation (p < 0.01) and time (p < 0.01) without an influence of genotype (p > 0.05). Nero Siciliano pigs showed lower levels of haptoglobin, β1-globulin, and β2-globulin compared to crossbreed LxLW. Nero Siciliano pigs and crossbred LxLW fed with liquid whey showed lower levels of WBC, haptoglobin, C-reactive protein, α-, β1-, and β2-globulins and higher values of albumin compared to control groups. The results reinforced the hypothesis that autochthonous breeds possess higher resilience to farming conditions when compared to allochthonous breeds. Moreover, an immune-modulatory and an anti-inflammatory power of liquid whey dietary supplementation is suggested probably thanks to its content in natural bioactive substances including anti-inflammatory cytokines and anti-oxidative factors.
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Abbate JM, Giannetto A, Arfuso F, Brunetti B, Lanteri G. RT-qPCR Expression Profiles of Selected Oncogenic and Oncosuppressor miRNAs in Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded Canine Mammary Tumors. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12212898. [PMID: 36359024 PMCID: PMC9654908 DOI: 10.3390/ani12212898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can act as oncogenes or oncosuppressor genes, and their involvement in nearly all cancer-associated processes makes these small molecules promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in cancer, as well as specific targets for cancer therapy. This study aimed to investigate the expression of 7 miRNAs (miR-18a, miR-18b, miR-22, miR-124, miR-145, miR-21, miR-146b) in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded canine mammary tumors (CMTs) by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Twenty-six mammary samples were selected, including 22 CMTs (7 benign; 15 malignant) and 4 control samples (3 normal mammary gland and 1 case of lobular hyperplasia). Oncogenic miR-18a, miR-18b and miR-21 were significantly upregulated in malignant tumors compared with control tissues (p < 0.05). Conversely, oncosuppressor miR-146b was significantly downregulated in benign and malignant mammary tumors compared with control samples (p < 0.05) while, no group-related differences in the expression levels of miR-22, miR-124 and miR-145 were found (p > 0.05). Upregulated miRNAs found here, may regulate genes involved in receptor-mediated carcinogenesis and proteoglycan remodeling in cancer; while miRNA with reduced expression can regulate genes involved in Toll-like receptor and MAPK signaling pathways. According to the results obtained in the current study, the oncogenic and oncosuppressor miRNAs analyzed here are dysregulated in CMTs and the dysregulation of miRNA targets may lead to specific altered cellular processes and key pathways involved in carcinogenesis. Of note, since oncogenic miRNAs predicted to regulate neoplastic cell proliferation and hormonal activities, they may play an active role in neoplastic transformation and/or progression, having mechanistic and prognostic relevance in CMTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Maria Abbate
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Alessia Giannetto
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Brunetti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Tolara di Sopra, Ozzano Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Giovanni Lanteri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy
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Bazzano M, Arfuso F, Bonfili L, Eleuteri AM, McLean A, Serri E, Spaterna A, Laus F. Measuring Biochemical Variables and Serum Amyloid A (SAA) in Working Mules in Central Italy. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12202793. [PMID: 36290179 PMCID: PMC9597738 DOI: 10.3390/ani12202793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
According to FAO reports, the global mule population counts about 9 million mules. This hybrid cross of a male donkey and a female horse is mainly used for draft purposes because they are thought to be strong and hardy animals. Most consider mules to be less susceptible to disease and fatigue compared to horses. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of fieldwork on biochemical variables and serum amyloid A in working mules. Blood samples were collected from 10 healthy, female, working mules before and after 8 h of fieldwork. According to statistical analysis, a significant influence (p < 0.05) of fieldwork was found on mules’ electrolyte profile with increased levels of sodium, chloride, and calcium, as well as on blood urea nitrogen and creatinine. After a day of fieldwork, serum sodium, chloride, calcium, urea, and creatinine concentrations were increased, supporting decreases in body water and renal blood flow. However, without comparison to a group of mules that were not exercised yet maintained under similar ambient conditions, it is uncertain whether these changes can be attributed to exercise. Further, no change in SAA concentration was found after exercise, indicating that the work performed did not result in systemic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilena Bazzano
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Matelica, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Laura Bonfili
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Matelica, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Eleuteri
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Matelica, Italy
| | - Amy McLean
- Department of Animal Science, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Evelina Serri
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Matelica, Italy
| | - Andrea Spaterna
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Matelica, Italy
| | - Fulvio Laus
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Matelica, Italy
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Monteverde V, Camilleri G, Arfuso F, Pennisi M, Perillo L, Patitò G, Gioia G, Castronovo C, Piccione G. Heavy Metal Levels in Milk and Serum of Dairy Cows from Different Farms Located near an Industrial Area. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12192574. [PMID: 36230317 PMCID: PMC9559289 DOI: 10.3390/ani12192574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The increase in waste in the environment due to anthropogenic activities has a strong negative effect on the health of the Earth. Heavy metals are the most important cause of environmental pollution, and they enter into the food chain with a severe negative impact on human and animal health. The presence of heavy metals in milk probably indicates the chronic exposure of animals to these elements, suggesting the usefulness of this biological matrix as an indicator of heavy metal contamination. Therefore, the evaluation of heavy metal concentrations in milk can be a useful tool to monitor the exposure to environmental pollutions and to safeguard the security of both human and animal health status and welfare. Abstract Background: Heavy metals are toxic, non-biodegradable substances able to enter the food chain of cows and then transfer to their milk. This study investigated the relationship between the heavy metal concentrations in serum and milk and the environmental pollutants exposure at two different farms in Ragusa, Italy. Methods: To evaluate the concentrations of aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb), milk and serum samples were collected from 40 Friesian dairy cows from farm 1 at about 3.7 km from an industrial area (group 1) and 40 Friesian dairy cows from farm 2 at about 400 mt from a greenhouse and 6.0 km from a chemical fertilizer factory (group 2). Results: The concentrations of heavy metals measured in serum and milk showed no statistically significant differences between group 1 and group 2. No significant correlation between heavy metals in serum and milk in group 1 was observed. A positive correlation between Zn concentrations measured in milk and serum samples was observed in group 2 (r = 0.35, p = 0.03). Conclusions: The determination of heavy metals in serum and milk can be an important tool to detect the exposure to environmental pollutants and in monitoring the hygienic state of the environment in which milk is produced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Monteverde
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, Via G. Marinuzzi, 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Camilleri
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, Via G. Marinuzzi, 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-(090)-3506640
| | - Melissa Pennisi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Laura Perillo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Gioacchino Patitò
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, Via G. Marinuzzi, 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gioia
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, Via G. Marinuzzi, 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Calogero Castronovo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, Via G. Marinuzzi, 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Giannetto C, Aragona F, Arfuso F, Piccione G, De Caro S, Fazio F. Diurnal variation in rectal and cutaneous temperatures of horses housed under different management conditions. Int J Biometeorol 2022; 66:1601-1611. [PMID: 35596090 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-022-02304-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Thermoregulation is an important mechanism to ensure thermal homeostasis. In horses, different housing conditions could influence this mechanism by exposing animals to different microclimates. The circadian rhythm of body temperature is well known. For this reason, we wanted to investigate the daily rhythm of cutaneous (jugular, shoulder, inner thigh and croup) temperature in comparison to rectal temperature in athletic horses kept under two different housing conditions. Ten clinically healthy Italian Saddle horses were divided into two equal groups: the first group was housed in individual boxes, and the second group was kept in paddocks. In all horses, rectal and cutaneous temperature measurements were performed every 4 h for 48 consecutive hours during different seasons (spring, summer, autumn and winter), respectively, by means of digital and infrared thermometers. Ambient temperature, relative humidity and ventilation were recorded simultaneously. A general linear model (GLM) was applied to the recorded temperature values displaying a significant effect of season, time of day, site of recording and housing condition (p < 0.001). No statistical differences were found between the two days of monitoring (p = 0.49). A trigonometric statistical model (single cosinor method) was applied to investigate the circadian rhythm of rectal and cutaneous temperatures in the two different groups. Our results showed circadian rhythmicity of rectal temperature during all seasons and in both groups. Cutaneous temperature shows daily rhythmicity that was different in the various regions and was influenced by housing conditions and seasons. Application of GLM also showed a statistically significant effect of season and site of recording (p < 0.0001) on all circadian parameters and of management condition on amplitude and robustness (p < 0.0001). No statistical differences between the two days of monitoring were observed (p = 0.68). These findings are probably due to the animals' thermoregulatory mechanisms ensuring heat exchange between the body and the environment, and that was influenced by the microclimate. In particular, the microclimate influenced the thermodispersion disrupting the daily rhythmicity of some body regions, in horses kept in boxes. Only the temperate climatic conditions observed in summer guarantee the expression of the daily rhythmicity of all body surfaces in both management conditions. These results contribute to the knowledge of the mechanisms of homeostasis and control of body temperature in the athletic horse kept in different housing conditions, with a chronophysiological interpretation that completes the proper management of thermal well-being in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario Dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy.
| | - Francesca Aragona
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario Dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario Dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario Dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore De Caro
- Department of Engineering, University of Messina, C/da Di Dio (S. Agata), 98166, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario Dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168, Messina, Italy
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Aragona F, Di Pietro S, Arfuso F, Fazio F, Piccione G, Giudice E, Giannetto C. Correlation between Ocular and Rectal Temperature with Intra Ocular Pressure in Horse during Exercise. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141850. [PMID: 35883399 PMCID: PMC9311862 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The athletic horse has been found to be sensitive to numerous metabolic and physiological changes during physical exercise, making it a stressor which may go on to affect thermal and homeostatic well-being. In the present study we aimed to evaluate some ocular physiological variables (ocular temperature and intraocular pressure) and how they may be correlated to the rectal temperature, which better describes the thermoregulatory system. This study was conducted on 14 healthy horses from the same horse training center. Ocular temperature, intraocular pressure and rectal temperature were evaluated under different experimental conditions (am and pm hours) and before and after a show jumping exercise protocol. Ocular and rectal temperature increased after the exercise as a result of muscle metabolism activation, increasing blood flow in several regions of the body to improve oxygen supply and heat dissipation. On the contrary, intraocular pressure significantly decreased after exercise, probably due to peripheral vasodilatation. Our results showed a correlation between increased body temperatures and IOP variations during exercise. It would be interesting to consider these variables as indicators to determine physiological status of horses during physical exercise. Abstract The aim of the present study was to investigate the response to physical exercise of some ocular physiological variables (ocular temperature and intraocular pressure) in horses performing a jumping course in the morning (a.m.) or in the afternoon hours (p.m.), before and after the exercise, in correlation with the rectal temperature. Data collection was carried out on 14 clinical healthy Italian saddle horses. All horses were trained from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. and from 19:00 to 20:00 p.m. according to a specific training program. Ocular temperature (OT), rectal temperature (RT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) were determined. Statistical analysis showed no differences between the results for the left and the right eyes. The application of two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a statistically significant effect of time (before vs. after) on IOP (p = 0.0001). RT and OT were statistically influenced by time of day and by experimental conditions (a.m. vs. p.m.) (p = 0.0001). Bland–Altman (B-A) testing showed an agreement between the values of RT and OT. Our results showed a correlation between increased body temperatures and IOP variations during exercise, so they can probably be considered indicators of athletic horses’ physical fitness during exercise.
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Fazio F, Aragona F, Piccione G, Arfuso F, Giannetto C. Lithium concentration in biological samples and gender difference in athletic horses. J Equine Vet Sci 2022; 117:104081. [PMID: 35843390 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2022.104081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Lithium (Li+) represent a substance particularly used for human's psychiatric disorders but its therapeutic effect is not well documented for equine specie. For its neurotrophic effect it may be used as a possible doping substance in horses sport competitions. The purpose of the present study was to determinate the different bioaccumulation of lithium concentration in different biological substrates (blood, serum, mane and tail), in 30 horses (15 geldings and 15 mares) and haematological parameters as blood biomarkers for lithium bioaccumulation. (RBC, WBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, MCH, MCHC). The lithium concentration in substrates were analysed by one-way ANOVA. Unpaired t-test was performed between geldings and mares in all substrates. Furthermore, a single regression analysis (Pearson) has been carried out between lithium concentration of all biological substrates with each other and between the substrates with the haematological parameters. Our results showed a higher value of lithium concentration in blood and mane in total, and a higher value in mane and tail for mares than geldings. Correlation analysis showed only a significative correlation among blood, serum and tail. A significative statistical correlation between blood and all haematological parameters except for WBC and MCH was observed. A significative correlation was showed for serum and RBC, HGB and HCT and between tail and HGB, HCT and MCHC. No significative correlation was observed for mane and haematological parameters. These data could be useful for the evaluation of biodistribution of lithium in athletic horse in relation to different gender for future use in doping control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Via Palatucci snc, University of Messina. 98168, Messina, Italy.
| | - Francesca Aragona
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Via Palatucci snc, University of Messina. 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Via Palatucci snc, University of Messina. 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Via Palatucci snc, University of Messina. 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Via Palatucci snc, University of Messina. 98168, Messina, Italy
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Arfuso F, Assenza A, Tosto F, Giannetto C, Interlandi C, Piccione G, Liotta L. Serum bone metabolism biomarkers in healthy filies and colts from weaning until one year of age. Res Vet Sci 2022; 150:156-163. [PMID: 35841724 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2022.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the serum concentration of osteocalcin (OC), parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcitonin (CT), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and acid phosphatase (AP) in healthy-weaned-foals from 8 months of age until the first year of life. Moreover, the correlation of investigated parameters and foals' age, as well as the relationship between the serum values of PTH and the other markers of bone remodeling were assessed. From 20 foals (10 fillies, 10 colts), blood samples were monthly collected (from 8 to 12 months of age, T1-T5) and the concentration of OC, CT, Ca, P, ALP, AP and PTH was assessed. Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed age-related differences on OC concentration in both fillies (P = 0.008) and colts (P = 0.03) with higher OC values at T5 than T1 and T2. Sex-related effect on OC concentration was found with higher OC levels in colts compared to fillies (P = 0.01). A significant positive correlation between the OC, PTH, CT and APL values and foal's age was found in fillies and colts. PTH levels were positively correlated with the values of OC in fillies and colts. Obtained findings confirmed the dynamic bone turnover during growth in foals. The modification of PTH and OC confirmed the potential role of these parameters as indicator of bone growth and metabolism. The sex-related difference observed in OC concentration opens up new insights into the possible involvement of sex hormones in the regulation of bone metabolism in prepubertal foals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy.
| | - Anna Assenza
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Tosto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Interlandi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Luigi Liotta
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Arfuso F, Zumbo A, Castronovo C, Giudice E, Piccione G, Monteverde V, Giannetto C. The housing system influences daily total locomotor activity (TLA) in dairy cows. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2022.2098447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zumbo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Calogero Castronovo
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Sicily, “A. Mirri”, Palermo, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Monteverde
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Sicily, “A. Mirri”, Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, Messina, Italy
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Arfuso F, Cerutti RD, Scaglione MC, Sciabarrasi A, Giannetto C, Piccione G. Evaluation of locomotor activity in female Chelonoidis chilensis (Testudinidae, Gray 1870) in response to artificial photoperiod and temperature treatments. AMPHIBIA-REPTILIA 2022. [DOI: 10.1163/15685381-bja10096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Turtles as many other reptiles are capable of orientating their bodies toward the sun. This conduct requires the presence of an internal biological chronometer in the organism that regulates this behavior. Thus, a description of the internal clock in these reptiles is of interest. The assessment of locomotor activity can be considered a reliable indicator of biological clock function. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different artificial photoperiod and ambient temperature schedules on total locomotor activity of female Chelonoidis chilensis and its rhythmicity. Six C. chilensis specimens were exposed to different artificial photoperiods and temperature regimes each fixed for seven days. It was observed that the activity period during the different experimental schedules was close to the 24 hours indicating a daily rhythmicity. Moreover, all tortoises showed a similar total locomotor activity pattern displaying the most of motion during light phase. Under the condition of constant light tortoises exhibited a self-sustaining rhythm not entrained to light and temperature zeitgebers, thus, suggesting its possible endogenous periodicity. Though this study deepens the knowledge on the rhythmic system of C. chilensis, further investigations are needed to achieve a more detailed understanding of tortoise biological clock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Raúl D. Cerutti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Maria C. Scaglione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Antonio Sciabarrasi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Giannetto C, Giudice E, Piccione G, Castronovo C, Arfuso F. Immune and inflammatory response in horse vaccinated against equine herpesviruses 1 (EHV-1) and 4 (EHV-4) assessed by serum protein electrophoretic pattern and leukocyte population. J Equine Vet Sci 2022; 116:104051. [PMID: 35753636 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2022.104051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Protection against infectious diseases can be obtained with vaccines generating immunogenic response through a combination of humoral and cellular immunity. In this study haematological and serum protein electrophoretic profiles of horses vaccinated against herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) and 4 (EHV-4) were evaluated. Blood samples were collected from 16 horses before (T0), after 24h, 48h, 72h, 1st week, 2nd week and 3rd week (T1I, T2I, T3I, T7I, T14I and T21I) from the first EHV vaccine-dose administration as well as before (TPREII), and after 24h, 48h, 72h, 1st week, 2nd week, 3rd week and 4th week (T1II, T2II, T3II, T7II, T14II, T21II and T28II) from the EHV vaccine-booster. Total leukocyte values increased at T1I, T1II, T3II and T28II compared to T0 (P<0.01). Higher lymphocytes and lower neutrophils values were found after first vaccine-dose and vaccine-booster administration compared to the T0 (P<0.01). Monocytes showed higher values at T14II than T0 (P<0.01). Higher serum values of total proteins, α1-, α-2-, β1-, β2- and γ-globulins were found in horses after first vaccine-dose and vaccine-booster administration (P<0.01). Gathered results suggest that horses vaccinated against EHV1 and EHV-4 exhibited a dynamic change of WBC, lymphocytes, neutrophils and monocytes. Moreover, the analysis of serum electrophoresis pattern suggested that EHV vaccination induced the development of inflammation and antibody response in vaccinated horses as highlighted by the increase of α-, β- and γ-globulin fractions. These changes probably reflect the systemic immunological adaptation of animals to EHV vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy.
| | - Calogero Castronovo
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Sicily, "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
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Arfuso F, Acri G, Piccione G, Sansotta C, Fazio F, Giudice E, Giannetto C. Eye surface infrared thermography usefulness as a noninvasive method of measuring stress response in sheep during shearing: Correlations with serum cortisol and rectal temperature values. Physiol Behav 2022; 250:113781. [PMID: 35314176 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2022.113781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
During shearing, animals' welfare is adversely affected and acute stress occurs. Once animal perceives a threat, it develops behavioral, autonomic, endocrine or immune responses to maintain homeostasis. This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of eye temperature assessment by infrared thermography (IRT) to evaluate acute stress response in sheep undergoing a shearing procedure. From each animal, blood sampling, rectal and eye temperature assessment were performed before shearing (TPRE), 5 (TPOST5) and 60 (TPOST60) minutes after the end of shearing procedure. On blood samples the serum cortisol concentrations were evaluated. Rectal temperature (TRECTAL) was measured using a digital thermometer. Thermographic acquisitions of eye temperature were performed from the eye total area (TEYE) and from three regions of interest (lateral canthus, TROI-1; central cornea, TROI-2; medial canthus, TROI-3). One-way analysis of variance showed a significant increase of serum cortisol concentration, TRECTAL, TEYE and TROI-3 (p < 0.001). Serum cortisol was positively correlated with TRECTAL and TROI-3 at TPOST5 and TPOST60. TRECTAL resulted positively correlated with TROI-3 at TPRE, TPOST5 and TPOST60. Agreement between TRECTAL and each eye temperature considered (TEYE, TROI-1, TROI-2, TROI-3) has been shown by Bland-Altman plots at each time point of monitoring period. The findings obtained in the current survey suggest that the medial canthus is the most suitable region for eye temperature measurement to asses stress response in animals. Moreover, this study highlighted the usefulness of IRT as an immediate and non-invasive physiological measure to assess stress response in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Acri
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy.
| | - Carlo Sansotta
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo University Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
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Giannetto C, Acri G, Pennisi M, Piccione G, Arfuso F, Falcone A, Giudice E, Di Pietro S. Short Communication: Use of Infrared Thermometers for Cutaneous Temperature Recording: Agreement with the Rectal Temperature in Felis catus. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12101275. [PMID: 35625121 PMCID: PMC9137465 DOI: 10.3390/ani12101275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The recording of body temperature by rectal temperature assessments is a stressful procedure for cats. For this purpose, alternative methods for using rectal digital thermometers to monitor body temperature were investigated. Skin temperature was recorded in 20 cats, in 5 different body regions, and compared with the rectal temperature. The obtained data indicated that the cutaneous temperature recorded by the infrared thermometers was not in agreement with the data recorded by the digital thermometer in the rectum. Abstract In veterinary medicine, the gold standard for assessing body temperature is rectal temperature assessment. Considering that this procedure is stressful for many species, in particular for cats, it could be clinically important to consider an alternative approach for the monitoring of core body temperature. The aim of this study was to test if cutaneous temperature measurements by means of different infrared thermometers are in agreement with the most commonly used method for body temperature measurement in cats. The cutaneous temperature was recorded in the jugular, shoulder, rib, flank, and inner thigh, using three different non-contact infrared thermometers (IR1, IR2, and IR3) in 20 cats. The cutaneous temperature was then compared to the rectal temperature, recorded by means of a digital thermometer. The obtained data indicated that the cutaneous temperature recorded by the infrared thermometers was not in agreement with the data recorded by the digital thermometer in the rectum. In cats, the use of non-contact infrared thermometers gave no reproducible or constant data to justify their application for the recording of body temperature instead of rectal temperature recording. In addition, the infrared temperature measurement devices generated results that were not in good agreement among themselves, providing a novel result of clinical importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.P.); (G.P.); (F.A.); (A.F.); (E.G.); (S.D.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Giuseppe Acri
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Melissa Pennisi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.P.); (G.P.); (F.A.); (A.F.); (E.G.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.P.); (G.P.); (F.A.); (A.F.); (E.G.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.P.); (G.P.); (F.A.); (A.F.); (E.G.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Annastella Falcone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.P.); (G.P.); (F.A.); (A.F.); (E.G.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.P.); (G.P.); (F.A.); (A.F.); (E.G.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Simona Di Pietro
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (M.P.); (G.P.); (F.A.); (A.F.); (E.G.); (S.D.P.)
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Ferronato G, Cattaneo L, Trevisi E, Liotta L, Minuti A, Arfuso F, Lopreiato V. Effects of Weaning Age on Plasma Biomarkers and Growth Performance in Simmental Calves. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12091168. [PMID: 35565594 PMCID: PMC9104405 DOI: 10.3390/ani12091168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Weaning plays a key role in health status and future performance of calves. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of weaning age (Wa), early (45 d, EW) or conventional (60 d, CW), on growth performance and metabolic profile of ten Simmental calves (5 EW and 5 CW calves). Daily intake of milk and calf starter was recorded. Blood samples and measurements of body weight (BW), heart girth (HG), and wither height (WH) were collected at −25, −15, 0, 6, and 20 days relative to weaning. Growth performances (BW, HG, WH) were affected by Wa, resulting lower in EW calves compared with CW calves (p < 0.05). Average daily gain was affected by overall Wa and Time but also by the interaction Wa × Time (p < 0.05). EW calves had lower paraoxonase and higher oxidation protein products levels, lower glucose levels in the post-weaning period, lower Ca and cholesterol levels at 20 d after weaning, and higher GGT activity at −25 d from weaning (p < 0.05). A significant interaction effect between Wa and Time was reached for glucose, Ca, cholesterol. In conclusion, weaning Simmental calves at approximately six weeks of age might not affect inflammatory status and liver functionality after weaning. As secondary outcome, even though the low number of animals could represent a limitation, the average daily gain obtained by Simmental calves weaned at 45 d supported this strategy (despite the lower body weight at weaning and after was due only to the age difference of 15 days). Hence, in order to reduce rearing costs, early weaning for Simmental calves (dual-purpose breed, milk and beef) might not jeopardize calf development, as long as calves can reach body gains as reported in the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Ferronato
- Department of Civil Engineering, Architecture, Environment, Land Planning and Mathematics (DICATAM), Università degli Studi di Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Luca Cattaneo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Science, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122 Piacenza, Italy; (L.C.); (E.T.); (A.M.)
| | - Erminio Trevisi
- Department of Animal Sciences, Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Science, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122 Piacenza, Italy; (L.C.); (E.T.); (A.M.)
| | - Luigi Liotta
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Università di Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (L.L.); (F.A.)
| | - Andrea Minuti
- Department of Animal Sciences, Food and Nutrition, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Science, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122 Piacenza, Italy; (L.C.); (E.T.); (A.M.)
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Università di Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (L.L.); (F.A.)
| | - Vincenzo Lopreiato
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Università di Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy; (L.L.); (F.A.)
- Correspondence:
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Abbate JM, Grifò G, Capparucci F, Arfuso F, Savoca S, Cicero L, Consolo G, Lanteri G. Postmortem Electrical Conductivity Changes of Dicentrarchus labrax Skeletal Muscle: Root Mean Square (RMS) Parameter in Estimating Time since Death. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12091062. [PMID: 35565489 PMCID: PMC9105913 DOI: 10.3390/ani12091062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The estimation of postmortem interval (PMI) still poses a major challenge for pathologists worldwide, making the search for new and more accurate technologies to assist in PMI estimation worthy of growing scientific interest. This study aimed to explore for the first time the use of an oscilloscope coupled with a signal generator, as innovative technology, to evaluate changes in the electrical conductivity of skeletal muscle of sea bass specimens during the early postmortem interval, to find an accurate, quantitative parameter useful in PMI estimation. The use of the oscilloscope, especially for the RMS measured parameter, has been shown here as a promising technology for studying dielectric muscle properties during the early postmortem interval, with the advantage of being a rapid, non-destructive, and inexpensive method. Abstract Electric impedance spectroscopy techniques have been widely employed to study basic biological processes, and recently explored to estimate postmortem interval (PMI). However, the most-relevant parameter to approximate PMI has not been recognized so far. This study investigated electrical conductivity changes in muscle of 18 sea bass specimens, maintained at different room temperatures (15.0 °C; 20.0 °C; 25.0 °C), during a 24 h postmortem period using an oscilloscope coupled with a signal generator, as innovative technology. The root mean square (RMS) was selected among all measured parameters, and recorded every 15 min for 24 h after death. The RMS(t) time series for each animal were collected and statistically analyzed using MATLAB®. A similar trend in RMS values was observed in all animals over the 24 h study period. After a short period, during which the RMS signal decreased, an increasing trend of the signal was recorded for all fish until it reached a peak. Subsequently, the RMS value gradually decreased over time. A strong linear correlation was observed among the time series, confirming that the above time-behaviour holds for all animals. The time at which maximum value is reached strongly depended on the room temperature during the experiments, ranging from 6 h in fish kept at 25.0 °C to 14 h in animals kept at 15.0 °C. The use of the oscilloscope has proven to be a promising technology in the study of electrical muscle properties during the early postmortem interval, with the advantage of being a fast, non-destructive, and inexpensive method, although more studies will be needed to validate this technology before moving to real-time field investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Maria Abbate
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (J.M.A.); (F.A.)
| | - Gabriele Grifò
- Department of Mathematical, Computer, Physical and Earth Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy; (G.G.); (G.C.)
| | - Fabiano Capparucci
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (G.L.)
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (J.M.A.); (F.A.)
| | - Serena Savoca
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
- National Research Council, Institute for Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnology (IRBIM), 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Luca Cicero
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (G.L.)
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Sicily “A. Mirri” (IZS), 98129 Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Giancarlo Consolo
- Department of Mathematical, Computer, Physical and Earth Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy; (G.G.); (G.C.)
| | - Giovanni Lanteri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Papardo, 98166 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (G.L.)
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Di Pietro S, Falcone A, Arfuso F, Pennisi M, Piccione G, Giudice E. Treatment of Permethrin Toxicosis in Cats by Intravenous Lipid Emulsion. Toxics 2022; 10:toxics10040165. [PMID: 35448426 PMCID: PMC9029646 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10040165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Background: In this study, the clinical response to treatment with intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) for nine cats intoxicated with permethrin has been described. Methods: The enrolled cats showed acute onset of seizures, tremors and hypersalivation that were partially controlled with the administration of benzodiazepines and intravenous fluid therapy. Due to worsening clinical signs, intravenous lipid emulsion (intralipid 20%; 1.5 mL/kg in bolus, followed by 15 mL/kg for 1 h in infusion) was administered. Results: After ILE treatment, all cats recovered rapidly and were discharged within 24–54 h. Intravenous lipid emulsion appears to be a relatively safe and inexpensive alternative, with a short hospitalization time. Conclusions: Intravenous lipid emulsion could be an interesting therapeutic option in emergency and critical care protocols for permethrin toxicosis.
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Arfuso F, Piccione G, Trimarchi F, Panzera MF, Giannetto C. Stress, metabolic and serum muscle-derived enzymes response of horses employed in wooded area and field trekking courses. J Equine Vet Sci 2022; 112:103919. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2022.103919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Arfuso F, Giudice E, Panzera M, Rizzo M, Fazio F, Piccione G, Giannetto C. Interleukin-1Ra (Il-1Ra) and serum cortisol level relationship in horse as dynamic adaptive response during physical exercise. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2021; 243:110368. [PMID: 34922262 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2021.110368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The monitoring of endocrine and immunologic markers during exercise is of paramount importance to assess and/or maintain the physical well-being of athletes as well as to optimize the athletic performance. This study aimed to investigate the linkage between acute stress response and immune status in Thoroughbred horses competing in an official 1300-m race. From 10 horses blood was collected 1 week before the day of the race (1W-BEFORE), before (REST) and immediately after the race to assess the cortisol, Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), total proteins, white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), haemoglobin (Hb) and haematocrit (Hct) concentration. Higher levels of cortisol, Il-1Ra, WBC and erythrocytes indices after exercise was found than 1W-BEFORE and REST (P < 0.0001). Cortisol concentration was positively correlated with Il-1Ra, WBC, RBC, Hb and Hct. Overall, the findings suggest that submaximal exercise induces an acute stress response and an immune system reaction in athletic horse. Also, the correlation found between cortisol levels and Il-1Ra, WBC and erythrocytes indices open new scenario on the positive role of this hormone on the complex and dynamic physiological adaptation to exercise implemented by the organism to re-establish the homeostatic equilibrium, and, interestingly, to maintain an adequate anti-inflammatory environment after exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Michele Panzera
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
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Giannetto C, Acri G, Giudice E, Arfuso F, Testagrossa B, Piccione G. Quantifying Serum Total Lipids and Tryptophan Concentrations by Raman Spectroscopy During Standardized Obstacle Course in Horses. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 108:103820. [PMID: 34798171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Raman spectroscopy is an inelastic light-scattering phenomenon that provides vibrational spectrum that contains information relative to chemical bonds and symmetry of a specific molecule, allowing the quali-quantitative simultaneous determination of several components in the biological fluids. Raman spectroscopy measurement returns a spectrum over a wavenumber range constituted by several bands representing biomarkers according to investigated biological matrices. In literature, it has been reported that at the frequencies inside the (1,300-1,360) cm-1 total lipids, and tryptophan have been identified. On the basis of that, the aim of the present study was to compare the serum concentration of total lipids and tryptophan in horses subjected to a standardized obstacle course, in comparison with the data obtained in the (1,300-1,360) cm-1 band. At this purpose, five clinically healthy and regularly trained Italian Saddle horses aged between 8, and 10 years old performed with the same rider an obstacle course of 350 m/min with twelve 1.30 m high jumps preceded by warm-up. Blood samples were collected by means of jugular venipuncture into a vacutainer tubes with clot activator at rest, after the exercise, and 30 minutes after the end of exercise. A high correlation was observed between the area of total lipids and tryptophan in the (1,300-1,360) cm-1 band and their serum concentrations in all experimental conditions. Our preliminary results give a hint to study the exact correspondence between the area that identify these parameters in Raman spectrum and their serum concentration in athletic horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Acri
- Department of BIOMORF, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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Giannetto C, Fazio F, Nava V, Arfuso F, Piccione G, Coelho C, Gugliandolo E, Licata P. Data on multiple regression analysis between boron, nickel, arsenic, antimony, and biological substrates in horses: The role of hematological biomarkers. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2021; 36:e22955. [PMID: 34755932 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the biomarkers of exposure to boron, nickel, arsenic, and antimony in an industrial region, evaluating the bioaccumulation in biological substrates and the correlation with biomarkers such as hematological parameters. Through indication of the accumulation of some minerals in the horse's biological substrates reflects environmental pollution. Moreover, an additional aim of the study was to show whether these contaminants have an influence on the hematological parameters in horses. Blood, serum, mane, and tail samples from 20 horses from an industrial area were analyzed to determine boron (B), nickel (Ni), arsenic (As), antimony (Sb) concentration. Hematological parameters (red blood cell [RBC], white blood cells [WBC], hemoglobin [Hb], hematocrit [Hct], mean corpuscular volume [MCV], mean corpuscular hemoglobin [MCH], mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration [MCHC], platelet [PLT]) as a biomarker of blood in relation to the bioaccumulation of these elements were analyzed also. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed and single regression analysis (Pearson) and multiple regression analysis (p < 0.05) between blood factors, As, B, Ni, and Sb concentrations, and for each mineral in different substrate, respectively. Results showed a significant correlation between tail and mane concentrations with serum and blood for boron concentration (r = -1 p < 0.05). No significant correlation between sample (feed, hay, mane, tail, and water) concentrations and As, Ni, and Sb were found. A significantly negative correlation with blood parameters (r = -1 p < 0.05) was observed in Boron concentration for mane and tail. This suggests that the mane and tail may be a potential means to investigate suspected exposure to excessive levels of trace minerals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Nava
- BioMorf Department, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Clarisse Coelho
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusofona University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Patrizia Licata
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Arfuso F, Giannetto C, Interlandi C, Giudice E, Bruschetta A, Panzera MF, Piccione G. Dynamic Metabolic Response, Clotting Times and Peripheral Indices of Central Fatigue in Horse Competing in a 44 Km Endurance Race. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 106:103753. [PMID: 34670693 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A deep knowledge on metabolic response of athlete horse to exercise is of paramount importance for the development of optimal training programs to attain equilibrium between good performance and animal welfare. This study investigated the dynamic change of metabolic, clotting times and peripheral indices of central fatigue in horses competing in an official 44 km endurance race. From 6 horses blood samples were collected at rest (TPRE), within 5 minutes from the end of race (TPE5), after 30, 60 minutes after the end of race (TPE30 and TPE60) to investigate the values of blood lactate, glucose, platelets (PLTs), serum leucine, isoleucine, valine, tryptophan, the ratio between tryptophan and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) levels (Try/BCAAs), total proteins, non-esterified fatty acids, plasma thrombin time (TT), prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time and fibrinogen (Fb). Lactate, PLTs, non-esterified fatty acids, BCAAs and Try/BCAAs showed higher values at TPE5, TPE30and TPE60than TPRE(P < .0001); glucose showed lower values at TPE5, TPE30and TPE60than TPRE(P < .0001). Higher TT values were found at TPE5, TPE30and TPE60than TPRE, and at TPE5than TPE30 and TPE60(P < .0001); Fb was higher at TPE5than TPRE, T PE30and TPE60(P < .0001). This survey confirms that horses performing prolonged physical exercise experienced glycolysis, lipid mobilization and amino acid metabolism to provide substrates as fuel for muscle contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Interlandi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - Antongiulio Bruschetta
- Orthopedic Institute "Franco Scalabrino" of Messina, Via Consolare Pompea, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Francesca Panzera
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Images. University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy.
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Napoli E, Remesar S, Mendoza-Roldan J, De Benedetto G, Di Giorgio S, Sfacteria A, Marino G, Arfuso F, Catone G, Brianti E. Bovine besnoitiosis in a cattle herd in Sicily: an isolated outbreak or the acknowledgment of an endemicity? Parasitol Res 2021; 120:3547-3553. [PMID: 34477910 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07298-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Bovine besnoitiosis is a debilitating infectious disease caused by Besnoitia besnoiti (Apicomplexa; Sarcocystidae). The disease is mainly characterized by cutaneous and systemic signs, infertility in bulls, and abortion in cows. The current study describes an autochthonous outbreak of bovine besnoitiosis in Sicily, Southern Italy, being the first report of B. besnoiti infection in the island so far. In a cattle farm located in Syracuse province, a 4-year-old Belgian blue bull born in Sicily displayed typical clinical signs of the sub-acute/chronic disease phase with thickening of the skin of the scrotum and testicular degeneration. Histological examination of scrotal biopsies revealed the presence of several tissue cysts of B. besnoiti. The serological analysis of the herd using a commercial ELISA revealed a high seroprevalence (45 out of 55; 82%) of antibodies against B. besnoiti. Few seropositive animals (5 out of 45; 11%) showed clinical signs, cysts in vestibulum vaginae (1 out of 31; 3.2%), and testicular degeneration (4 out of 14; 28.6%) assessed by ultrasonographic investigations. The paucity of clinical signs associated with the high seroprevalence in the farm led to hypothesize that bovine besnoitiosis is endemic in the area though further studies are needed. Local practitioners should be more aware of the disease to facilitate the early detection of cases, prevent the spread of infection, and avoid economic losses and animal health problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Napoli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Susana Remesar
- Department of Animal Pathology, Investigación en Sanidad Animal: Galicia (Grupo INVESAGA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Gabriele Marino
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Catone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Emanuele Brianti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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Perillo L, Arfuso F, Piccione G, Dara S, Tropia E, Cascone G, Licitra F, Monteverde V. Quantification of Some Heavy Metals in Hair of Dairy Cows Housed in Different Areas from Sicily as a Bioindicator of Environmental Exposure-A Preliminary Study. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:2268. [PMID: 34438726 PMCID: PMC8388440 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this preliminary study was to evaluate the levels of selected heavy metals in hair samples of Holstein dairy cows reared on agricultural soils characterized by grassland subjected to anthropogenic impacts. Ninety Holstein-Friesian cows were enrolled in the study and divided into six groups according to farm origin. From each animal, hair samples were collected in order to determine the content of aluminum, chromium, iron, copper, zinc, arsenic, cadmium, and lead. One-way analysis of variance was applied to assess statistically significant differences in the studied heavy metals among the six groups. A significant effect of groups (p < 0.05) on all tested heavy metals was observed. In this study, the low concentration of heavy metals in the hair of the studied animals led us to think that the cows were subjected to low levels of these compounds, preventing them from bioaccumulating. Although the current study provides only preliminary results, it highlights the importance of investigating the concentration of heavy metals in cow hair to improve the health and welfare of both humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Perillo
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (L.P.); (F.A.)
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (L.P.); (F.A.)
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (L.P.); (F.A.)
| | - Salvatore Dara
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, Via G. Marinuzzi, 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (S.D.); (E.T.); (G.C.); (F.L.); (V.M.)
| | - Emanuela Tropia
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, Via G. Marinuzzi, 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (S.D.); (E.T.); (G.C.); (F.L.); (V.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Cascone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, Via G. Marinuzzi, 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (S.D.); (E.T.); (G.C.); (F.L.); (V.M.)
| | - Francesca Licitra
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, Via G. Marinuzzi, 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (S.D.); (E.T.); (G.C.); (F.L.); (V.M.)
| | - Vincenzo Monteverde
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia “A. Mirri”, Via G. Marinuzzi, 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (S.D.); (E.T.); (G.C.); (F.L.); (V.M.)
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Arfuso F, Giannetto C, Bazzano M, Assenza A, Piccione G. Physiological Correlation between Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis, Leptin, UCP1 and Lipid Panel in Mares during Late Pregnancy and Early Postpartum Period. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11072051. [PMID: 34359179 PMCID: PMC8300216 DOI: 10.3390/ani11072051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the dynamic change of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, leptin, mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), lipids and lipoproteins in mares during late pregnancy and the postpartum period. A total of 20 mares (10 pregnant mares, monitored from 14 ± 2 days before expected foaling until 14 days after foaling, Group A; 10 non-pregnant and non-lactating mares, Group B) were enrolled in the study. Body Condition Score (BCS) and body weight (BW) values were recorded from each animal. In Group A, blood samples were collected on days 14 ± 2 and 7 ± 2 before foaling (T-14; T-7), and on days 7 and 14 after foaling (T+7; T+14). From mares of Group B, blood samples were collected at the beginning of the study. The levels of ACTH, cortisol, leptin, UCP1, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs), total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins (HDLs), low-density lipoproteins (LDLs), triglycerides and very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs) were investigated. While BCS showed no statistical change throughout the monitoring period (p > 0.05), all the other studied parameters displayed statistically significant variations in Group A over the peripartum period (p < 0.0001). A significant effect of pregnancy was found on all studied parameters (p < 0.001). The ACTH and cortisol levels measured in mares belonged to Group A showed a significant positive correlation with the values of leptin, LDLs, triglycerides and VLDLs, whereas they were negatively correlated with the serum UCP1 and NEFAs values. Together, the findings gathered in this study highlight a dynamic change of serum leptin, UCP1 and lipid parameters in peripartum mares and suggest an interaction of the HPA axis with lipid metabolism and mobilization in mares during the peripartum period in order to deal with metabolic and energy demand and maintain energy homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (F.A.); (A.A.); (G.P.)
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (F.A.); (A.A.); (G.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-090-6766764
| | - Marilena Bazzano
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Via Andrea D’Accorso, 16, 62032 Macerata, Italy;
| | - Anna Assenza
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (F.A.); (A.A.); (G.P.)
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (F.A.); (A.A.); (G.P.)
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Arfuso F, Giannetto C, Panzera MF, Fazio F, Piccione G. Uncoupling Protein-1 (UCP1) in the Adult Horse: Correlations with Body Weight, Rectal Temperature and Lipid Profile. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061836. [PMID: 34202932 PMCID: PMC8235278 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Uncoupling protein-1 (UCP1) plays important roles in the energy balance and regulation of metabolism and in the body temperature regulation. In this survey the correlation among UCP1, body weight, rectal temperature and lipid profile was assessed in the adult horse. The findings gathered from the current survey showed that UCP1 values are not related with body weight and temperature in studied animals, but they seem to be linked to pathways involved in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism. Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the possible relationship among UCP1, body weight, rectal temperature and lipid profile in the horse. Thirty clinically healthy Italian Saddle geldings (6–10 years old) were enrolled after the informed owners’ consent. All horses were blood sampled and their body weight and rectal temperatures were recorded. On the sera obtained after blood centrifugation the concentration of UCP1, total lipids, phospholipids, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs), triglycerides, total cholesterol, high density lipoproteins (HDLs), low density lipoproteins (LDLs) and very low density lipoprotein fraction (VLDLs) was evaluated. Pearson’s correlation analysis was applied to assess the possible relationship between serum UCP1 concentration and the values of body weight, rectal temperature and lipid parameters. Serum UCP1 concentration showed no correlation with body weight, rectal temperature, HDLs and LDLs values, whereas it correlated negatively with serum total lipids, phospholipids, NEFAs, total cholesterol, triglycerides and VLDLs values (p < 0.0001). The findings suggest that in the adult horse the role of UCP1 is linked to the lipid metabolism rather than to thermoregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (C.G.); (F.F.); (G.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-(090)-6766726
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (C.G.); (F.F.); (G.P.)
| | - Maria Francesca Panzera
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (C.G.); (F.F.); (G.P.)
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy; (C.G.); (F.F.); (G.P.)
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Giannetto C, Cannella V, Giudice E, Guercio A, Arfuso F, Piccione G. Clock genes determination in whole blood in goats housed under a long light cycle. Chronobiol Int 2021; 38:1283-1289. [PMID: 34000942 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2021.1928158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
An innate 24 h circadian clock drives various behavioral processes via expression of clock genes that regulate circadian rhythmicity and temporal signals. Elucidating the gene expression in goats may contribute to improving the knowledge of the regulation of circadian rhythms in this species. Five nonpregnant and nonlactating Maltese goats with no evidence of disease were kept in an indoor pen under the natural long photoperiod (05:05-20:56 h) and natural environmental temperature (23°C and 60% RH). They were fed an Alfalfa hay and concentrate mixture provided twice a day; water was available ad libitum. Blood samples were collected every 4 h over a 48 h period into PAX gene Blood RNA Tubes and stored at -80°C until processing. Clock genes (Clock; Cry1; Cry2; Per2; Per3) were determined using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. During the experimental period, locomotor activity was monitored by an actigraphy-based data logger that records a digitally integrated measure of motor activity as a means to assess indices of discomfort during study and stability of the circadian rhythm. All of the tested genes showed daily rhythmicity in their expression in whole blood. Differences in their circadian parameters were observed. Mesor and amplitude were statistically different among the tested gene (Mesor: F(4.30) = 205.30; p < .0001; amplitude: F(4.30) = 104.80; p < .0001), with each gene showing its acrophase at a different time of day (F(4.30) = 81.17; p < .0001), and differences were observed between the two days of monitoring (F(1.30) = 10.25; p = .003). The application of two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) on robustness of rhythm values did not show statistical differences among the tested genes (F(4.30) = 1.83; p = .14) and between the two days of monitoring (F(1.30) = 1.16; p = .28). Locomotor activity data recording were in accordance with the data reported in literature, indicating the absence of discomfort or alteration of circadian rhythms during the experimental period. Our results support the presence of a cyclic transcription of clock genes in whole blood of healthy goats housed under a long light natural photoperiod and natural environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Giannetto
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - V Cannella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - E Giudice
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - A Guercio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Palermo, Italy
| | - F Arfuso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
| | - G Piccione
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università degli Studi di Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, Messina, Italy
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