Objectives: This study aims to determine the effect of a toll-like receptor 7/8 (TLR7/8) ligand on the motility of putative X- and Y-chromosome-bearing sperm in rams. Materials and Methods: Sperm from three fertile rams were incubated with tris-citrate buffer containing 0 to 0.9 μM resiquimod (a TLR7/8 ligand) that affects only the X chromosome sperm. Sperm was then subjected to a swim-up test method. After incubation, sperm in the top and lower layers of the media were transferred into a separate new tube. Sperm motility characteristics, concentration, morphometry, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) concentration from both layers were identified. The data were analyzed for multiple comparisons using one-way analysis of variance. Results: The study demonstrated that the presence of resiquimod used in the swim-up method facilitated the morphometric separation of smaller sperm, predominantly representing Y chromosome sperm in the top layer. Meanwhile, larger samples, indicating X chromosome sperm, accumulated in the lower layer of the media, thus increasing sperm concentration. Resiquimod also decreased motility in the lower layer, but samples in the top layer were unaffected. This decrease was reinforced by the depletion of the ATP level of sperm at the lower level. Conclusion: The TLR7/8 ligand reduced the motility of the putative X-sperm by decreasing their ATP content, allowing separation from the putative Y-sperm. These results suggested the importance of TLR7/8 as a potential biomarker in sperm selection technology. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(3.000): 648-654]

Objectives: This study aims to determine the effect of a toll-like receptor 7/8 (TLR7/8) ligand on the motility of putative X- and Y-chromosome-bearing sperm in rams. Materials and Methods: Sperm from three fertile rams were incubated with tris-citrate buffer containing 0 to 0.9 µM resiquimod (a TLR7/8 ligand) that affects only the X chromosome sperm. Sperm was then subjected to a swim-up test method. After incubation, sperm in the top and lower layers of the media were transferred into a separate new tube. Sperm motility characteristics, concentration, morphometry, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) concentration from both layers were identified. The data were analyzed for multiple comparisons using one-way analysis of variance. Results: The study demonstrated that the presence of resiquimod used in the swim-up method facilitated the morphometric separation of smaller sperm, predominantly representing Y chromosome sperm in the top layer. Meanwhile, larger samples, indicating X chromosome sperm, accumulated in the lower layer of the media, thus increasing sperm concentration. Resiquimod also decreased motility in the lower layer, but samples in the top layer were unaffected. This decrease was reinforced by the depletion of the ATP level of sperm at the lower level. Conclusion: The TLR7/8 ligand reduced the motility of the putative X-sperm by decreasing their ATP content, allowing separation from the putative Y-sperm. These results suggested the importance of TLR7/8 as a potential biomarker in sperm selection technology. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(3): 648–654, September 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k814

Objective: The methodology employed in this research was designed to identify and characterize the infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) at the molecular level, originating from recent outbreaks in Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: The IBDV outbreak farm was investigated, and bursa of Fabricius (BF) specimens were acquired from infected chickens. Initially, viruses in the processed samples were detected in chicken embryo fibroblast (CEF) cells, and the RT-PCR method was used to confirm IBDV. The positive samples were injected through chorioallantoic membrane route into the embryo of a 10-day-old specific pathogen-free (SPF) egg for virus isolation and pathogenicity testing. Finally, we sequenced the VP2 gene to identify phylogenetic relationships and detect mutations. Results: From the 77 collected samples, 42.85% (33/77) were found positive for cytopathic effects in CEF cells, and IBDV was detected in 31.16% (24/77) of the samples by RT-PCR. IBDV was isolated in SPF chicken embryos. In the pathogenicity test, infectious bursal disease was evident in seronegative chickens with visible signs of disease. Sequence analysis shows that the broiler-isolated viruses clustered with genotype A3B2 and backyard chickens with genotype A1B1. The presence of amino acid motifs for virulence markers was revealed in the partially sequenced VP2 gene with a mutation at S254G in four IBDV isolates from broilers. However, amino acids for virulence markers were absent in two isolates from backyard chickens, which shows sequence homology with IBDV classic strains. Conclusion: In this study, we identified and characterized circulating reassorted IBDV from vaccinated broilers, which may be one of the major causes of vaccination failure in broilers. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(3.000): 534-543]

Objective: The methodology employed in this research was designed to identify and characterize the infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) at the molecular level, originating from recent outbreaks in Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: The IBDV outbreak farm was investigated, and bursa of fabricius (BF) specimens were acquired from infected chickens. Initially, viruses in the processed samples were detected in chicken embryo fibroblast (CEF) cells, and the RT-PCR method was used to confirm IBDV. The positive samples were injected through chorioallantoic membrane route into the embryo of a 10-day-old specific pathogen-free (SPF) egg for virus isolation and pathogenicity testing. Finally, we sequenced the VP2 gene to identify phylogenetic relationships and detect mutations. Results: From the 77 collected samples, 42.85% (33/77) were found positive for cytopathic effects in CEF cells, and IBDV was detected in 31.16% (24/77) of the samples by RT-PCR. IBDV was isolated in SPF chicken embryos. In the pathogenicity test, infectious bursal disease was evident in seronegative chickens with visible signs of disease. Sequence analysis shows that the broiler-isolated viruses clustered with genotype A3B2 and backyard chickens with genotype A1B1. The presence of amino acid motifs for virulence markers was revealed in the partially sequenced VP2 gene with a mutation at S254G in four IBDV isolates from broilers. However, amino acids for virulence markers were absent in two isolates from backyard chickens, which shows sequence homology with IBDV classic strains. Conclusion: In this study, we identified and characterized circulating reassorted IBDV from vaccinated broilers, which may be one of the major causes of vaccination failure in broilers. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(3): 534–543, September 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k803

Objective: The current study investigated the effects of supplying ruminally protected amino acids (AA) (lysine, L; and methionine, M) and dietary protein levels on the performance of late-nursing ewes. Materials and Methods: Thirty-one Awassi ewes nursing single lambs were individually housed and assigned randomly to one of four treatment groups (2 × 2 factorial design). Ewes in treatment groups were (with supplemental RPL and RPM) or were not (without supplemental RPL and RPM) supplemented with lysine (8.5 gm/day) and methionine (4 gm/day) and were fed diets containing either 13.2 (moderate protein) or 11.1% (low protein) protein. Results: No interactions between supplemental AA and dietary protein levels were observed. Supplying ewes with L and M did not affect (p ≥ 0.06) their nutrient intake or their final body weights (BWs). Additionally, milk composition, yield, and efficiency were not affected by supple¬mental L and M. Decreasing dietary protein levels did not affect (p = 0.13) the final BWs, milk yield, composition, and efficiency but decreased (p < 0.01) nutrient intake of ewes. Conclusion: Under our study conditions, reducing the protein contents of the diets from 13.2% to 11.1% had no negative impact on late-nursing ewes. Regardless of dietary protein level, the beneficial effect of supplying L and M was not evident. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(3.000): 711-716]

Objective: The current study investigated the effects of supplying ruminally protected amino acids (AA) (lysine, L; and methionine, M) and dietary protein levels on the performance of late-nursing ewes. Materials and Methods: Thirty-one Awassi ewes nursing single lambs were individually housed and assigned randomly to one of four treatment groups (2 × 2 factorial design). Ewes in treatment groups were (with supplemental RPL and RPM) or were not (without supplemental RPL and RPM) supplemented with lysine (8.5 gm/day) and methionine (4 gm/day) and were fed diets containing either 13.2 (moderate protein) or 11.1% (low protein) protein. Results: No interactions between supplemental AA and dietary protein levels were observed. Supplying ewes with L and M did not affect (p ≥ 0.06) their nutrient intake or their final body weights (BWs). Additionally, milk composition, yield, and efficiency were not affected by supplemental L and M. Decreasing dietary protein levels did not affect (p = 0.13) the final BWs, milk yield, composition, and efficiency but decreased (p < 0.01) nutrient intake of ewes. Conclusion: Under our study conditions, reducing the protein contents of the diets from 13.2% to 11.1% had no negative impact on late-nursing ewes. Regardless of dietary protein level, the beneficial effect of supplying L and M was not evident. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(3): 711-716, September 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k821

Objectives: The study aimed to inactivate the FAdV isolate (UPM11142P5B1) produced in a biore¬actor and assess the humoral and cellular immunity, efficacy, and virus shedding in broiler chickens. Materials and Methods: The isolate was grown in a bioreactor, inactivated using binary ethylene¬imine, adjuvanted with Montanide 71VG, and injected into day-old broiler chickens either with or without booster groups. The following parameters were measured: T lymphocyte profile in the liver, spleen, and thymus; FAdV antibody titer; clinical symptoms; gross and histological alter¬ations in the liver, spleen, and thymus; virus copy number in the liver and cloacal shedding. Results: Compared to the unchallenged control group, booster (BG), and non-booster (NBG), the challenged control group (CCG) had a larger liver: body weight (BW) ratio, milder clinical signs, gross lesions, and histological alterations. They also had a lower BW. At 7, 21, 35, and 42 days post-inoculation (dpi), the NBG and BG exhibited higher antibody levels than the UCG. At 35 dpi, challenged BG and NBG produced more antibodies than CCG. In BG and NBG, T cells were stimu¬lated in the spleen, thymus, and liver. At 35 and 42 dpi, the challenged BG and NBG showed significantly decreased viral copy numbers in the liver and shedding, respectively, along with increased lymphocyte counts. Conclusion: The inactivated UPM11142P5B1 with Montanide 71VG could be a vaccine against FAdV 8b infections in chickens. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(3.000): 693-702]

Objectives: The study aimed to inactivate the FAdV isolate (UPM11142P5B1) produced in a bioreactor and assess the humoral and cellular immunity, efficacy, and virus shedding in broiler chickens. Materials and Methods: The isolate was grown in a bioreactor, inactivated using binary ethyleneimine, adjuvanted with Montanide 71VG, and injected into day-old broiler chickens either with or without booster groups. The following parameters were measured: T lymphocyte profile in the liver, spleen, and thymus; FAdV antibody titer; clinical symptoms; gross and histological alterations in the liver, spleen, and thymus; virus copy number in the liver and cloacal shedding. Results: Compared to the unchallenged control group, booster (BG), and non-booster (NBG), the challenged control group (CCG) had a larger liver: body weight (BW) ratio, milder clinical signs, gross lesions, and histological alterations. They also had a lower BW. At 7, 21, 35, and 42 days post-inoculation (dpi), the NBG and BG exhibited higher antibody levels than the UCG. At 35 dpi, challenged BG and NBG produced more antibodies than CCG. In BG and NBG, T cells were stimulated in the spleen, thymus, and liver. At 35 and 42 dpi, the challenged BG and NBG showed significantly decreased viral copy numbers in the liver and shedding, respectively, along with increased lymphocyte counts. Conclusion: The inactivated UPM11142P5B1 with Montanide 71VG could be a vaccine against FAdV 8b infections in chickens. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(3): 693–702, September 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k819

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of thioacetamide (TAA) on the structure and function of the testes and assess the therapeutic effects of Curcuma longa (Cl) against TAA-induced toxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two male albino rats weighing 180–200 gm and aged 11–12 weeks were randomly separated into four groups. The control group was given normal saline, the Cl group was orally administered Cl (500 mg/kg/day), the TAA group received intraperitoneal TAA (200 mg/kg body weight, three times/week), and the Cl with TAA group received Cl orally two hours before TAA administration. After 8 weeks, all rats were anesthetized, and body and testis weights were recorded. Morphological and histological assessments as well as biochemical analyses were conducted. Results: The study revealed a significant decrease in both body and testis weights in the TAA group, accompanied by a substantial increase in luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hor¬mone (FSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Testosterone (T) and glutathione (GSH) were significantly decreased in the TAA-treated group compared to the control. Conversely, the Cl-treated group exhibited a substantial decrease in LH, FSH, and MDA levels while showing a significant increase in T and GSH. Conclusion: Cl has been found to have a potential therapeutic role in mitigating TAA-induced testicular damage by acting as an antioxidant. This is supported by a significant decrease in oxi¬dative stress markers and supporting hormonal levels. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and explore the clinical applicability of Cl in preventing and treating testicular toxicity. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(3.000): 762-771]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of thioacetamide (TAA) on the structure and function of the testes and assess the therapeutic effects of Curcuma longa (Cl) against TAA-induced toxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two male albino rats weighing 180–200 gm and aged 11–12 weeks were randomly separated into four groups. The control group was given normal saline, the Cl group was orally administered Cl (500 mg/kg/day), the TAA group received intraperitoneal TAA (200 mg/kg body weight, three times/week), and the Cl with TAA group received Cl orally two hours before TAA administration. After 8 weeks, all rats were anesthetized, and body and testis weights were recorded. Morphological and histological assessments as well as biochemical analyses were conducted. Results: The study revealed a significant decrease in both body and testis weights in the TAA group, accompanied by a substantial increase in luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Testosterone (T) and glutathione (GSH) were significantly decreased in the TAA-treated group compared to the control. Conversely, the Cl-treated group exhibited a substantial decrease in LH, FSH, and MDA levels while showing a significant increase in T and GSH. Conclusion: Cl has been found to have a potential therapeutic role in mitigating TAA-induced testicular damage by acting as an antioxidant. This is supported by a significant decrease in oxidative stress markers and supporting hormonal levels. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and explore the clinical applicability of Cl in preventing and treating testicular toxicity.  J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(3): 762-771, September 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k828

Objective: The objective was to find out the expression of EphB4 receptor and ephrin-B1 ligand by the macrophages that live inside the mouse testicles. Materials and Methods: Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression of EphB4 and ephrin-B1 was identified via RT-PCR amplification, and protein expression was examined by immunostaining. Results: Analysis using RT-PCR revealed that mRNA of EphB4 and ephrin-B1 were noticed in the examined testis of all postnatal ages. Furthermore, immunostaining revealed that F4/80-positive intra-testicular-resident macrophages were located in the intertubular spaces within the testis and more densely around the intra-testicular excurrent duct system, and increased in number gradually during the postnatal period of development until 5 weeks of age, when the mice attain their maturity (puberty), and maintained thereafter. Both EphB4 and ephrin-B1 immunoreactiv¬ity were noticed in F4/80-positive intra-testicular-resident macrophages within the testis of all studied postnatal ages. Ephrin-B1 and EphB4 immunoreactivity were weak during early postnatal development until the age of 2 weeks, and then ephrin-B1 immunoreactivity became very strong and EphB4 immunoreactivity became strong at the age of 3 weeks, and they continued to do so until the age of 8 weeks. Furthermore, EphB4 receptor was tyrosine-phosphorylated in testis. Conclusion: The expression of EphB4 and ephrin-B1 in mice intra-testicular-resident macro¬phages is being examined for the first time in this work. The localization of EphB4 and ephrin-B1, and EphB4 tyrosine-phosphorylation suggest that EphB4/ephrin-B1 signaling might occur in the intra-testicular-resident macrophages, and may participate in maintaining male fertility. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(3.000): 746-753]

Objective: The objective was to find out the expression of EphB4 receptor and ephrin-B1 ligand by the macrophages that live inside the mouse testicles. Materials and Methods: Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression of EphB4 and ephrin-B1 was identified via RT-PCR amplification, and protein expression was examined by immunostaining. Results: Analysis using RT-PCR revealed that mRNA of EphB4 and ephrin-B1 were noticed in the examined testis of all postnatal ages. Furthermore, immunostaining revealed that F4/80-positive intra-testicular-resident macrophages were located in the intertubular spaces within the testis and more densely around the intra-testicular excurrent duct system, and increased in number gradually during the postnatal period of development until 5 weeks of age, when the mice attain their maturity (puberty), and maintained thereafter. Both EphB4 and ephrin-B1 immunoreactivity were noticed in F4/80-positive intra-testicular-resident macrophages within the testis of all studied postnatal ages. Ephrin-B1 and EphB4 immunoreactivity were weak during early postnatal development until the age of 2 weeks, and then ephrin-B1 immunoreactivity became very strong and EphB4 immunoreactivity became strong at the age of 3 weeks, and they continued to do so until the age of 8 weeks. Furthermore, EphB4 receptor was tyrosine-phosphorylated in testis. Conclusion: The expression of EphB4 and ephrin-B1 in mice intra-testicular-resident macrophages is being examined for the first time in this work. The localization of EphB4 and ephrin-B1, and EphB4 tyrosine-phosphorylation suggest that EphB4/ephrin-B1 signaling might occur in the intra-testicular-resident macrophages, and may participate in maintaining male fertility. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(3): 746-753, September 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k826

Objective: The study aimed to assess the feasibility of incorporating food-grade zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) for making zinc-fortified meatballs from broiler meat. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 broiler breasts were treated with different concentrations of elemental zinc (Zn) of food-grade ZnSO₄ for making meatballs. The study included a control group without added Zn (T0: 0 mg/kg) and treatment groups with Zn concentrations of 10 mg/kg (T1), 20 mg/kg (T2), 30 mg/kg (T3), and 40 mg/kg (T4). Post-cooking, the meatball samples underwent preservation at −20°C for proximate composition, quality parameters, storage quality, texture, and sensory analysis. Results: Though the moisture content of meatballs did not differ significantly (p > 0.05), the T4 meatballs showed higher moisture percentages and significantly (p < 0.01) higher crude protein content compared to the control. However, a significant increase in cook yield (p < 0.01) and water-holding capacity (p < 0.05) were revealed by the T4 group. The T4 meatball recovered around 41.8% Zn. The malondialdehyde levels in all samples were acceptable when kept in the chiller for ten days. Moreover, the addition of varying doses of ZnSO4 did not result in a significant alteration (p > 0.05) in the hardness of the meatballs. The sensory panelists also validated the instrumental outcome of hardness. Conclusion: The addition of 40 mg/kg of elemental Zn from ZnSO4 improves nutritional composition and quality with no alteration of the texture and sensory properties of the meatball. This dose could be an effective strategy for fortifying chicken meat products and could offer a valuable source of dietary Zn for human consumption. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 1130-1138]

Objective: The study aimed to assess the feasibility of incorporating food-grade zinc sulfate (ZnSO4 ) for making zinc-fortified meatballs from broiler meat. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 broiler breasts were treated with different concentrations of elemental zinc (Zn) of food-grade ZnSO₄ for making meatballs. The study included a control group without added Zn (T0: 0 mg/kg) and treatment groups with Zn concentrations of 10 mg/ kg (T1), 20 mg/kg (T2), 30 mg/kg (T3), and 40 mg/kg (T4). Post-cooking, the meatball samples underwent preservation at −20°C for proximate composition, quality parameters, storage quality, texture, and sensory analysis. Results: Though the moisture content of meatballs did not differ significantly (p > 0.05), the T4 meatballs showed higher moisture percentages and significantly (p < 0.01) higher crude protein content compared to the control. However, a significant increase in cook yield (p < 0.01) and water-holding capacity (p < 0.05) were revealed by the T4 group. The T4 meatball recovered around 41.8% Zn. The malondialdehyde levels in all samples were acceptable when kept in the chiller for ten days. Moreover, the addition of varying doses of ZnSO4 did not result in a significant alteration (p > 0.05) in the hardness of the meatballs. The sensory panelists also validated the instrumental outcome of hardness. Conclusion: The addition of 40 mg/kg of elemental Zn from ZnSO4 improves nutritional composition and quality with no alteration of the texture and sensory properties of the meatball. This dose could be an effective strategy for fortifying chicken meat products and could offer a valuable source of dietary Zn for human consumption. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(4): 1130–1138, December 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k864

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the optimal doses of a flavonoid blend (FB) for enhancing cost-efficient production, digestibility, gut-beneficial microbiota, serum metabolites, and meat quality in broilers. Materials and Methods: For 35 days, 280-day-old chicks (Cobb-500) were randomly allocated to four groups, each containing 70 birds, with 5 replicates. Birds were given FB (gm/kg) at the levels of 0.0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 in a basal diet (corn-soya-based) and designated as the control, 0.2 FB, 0.4 FB, and 0.6 FB groups, respectively. At 35 days, 15 birds from each group were slaughtered to analyze cecum microbiota, serum profiles, meat, and bone quality. Results: Compared with the control, birds given FB linearly showed better feed intake and overall performance, with the optimum results observed in 0.6 FB. Birds fed FB resulted in linear, quadratic, and cubic improvements in digestibility, with the 0.6 FB group presenting 12% more (p < 0.01) crude protein digestibility than the control. Birds offered either 0.4 FB or 0.6 FB increased (p < 0.01) the population of beneficial bacteria while reducing (p < 0.01) pathogenic bacteria in the cecum compared to the control. Birds fed 0.6 FB showed substantial improvements in beneficial serum metabolites and liver health, along with reduced bad cholesterol compared with the control. Although FB was unaffected (p > 0.05) by dressed yield, meat composition, lightness, or bone characteristics, the 0.6 FB group showed substantially (p < 0.01) more meat redness and bone ash percentage in broilers than in the control. Conclusions: Supplementing 0.6 gm FB/kg of diet improved growth performance, enhanced digestibility, increased beneficial gut microbiota and serum metabolites, and ameliorated meat quality in broilers. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 979-988]

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the optimal doses of a flavonoid blend (FB) for enhancing cost-efficient production, digestibility, gut-beneficial microbiota, serum metabolites, and meat quality in broilers. Materials and Methods: For 35 days, 280-day-old chicks (Cobb-500) were randomly allocated to four groups, each containing 70 birds, with 5 replicates. Birds were given FB (gm/kg) at the levels of 0.0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 in a basal diet (corn-soya-based) and designated as the control, 0.2 FB, 0.4 FB, and 0.6 FB groups, respectively. At 35 days, 15 birds from each group were slaughtered to analyze cecum microbiota, serum profiles, meat, and bone quality. Results: Compared with the control, birds given FB linearly showed better feed intake and overall performance, with the optimum results observed in 0.6 FB. Birds fed FB resulted in linear, quadratic, and cubic improvements in digestibility, with the 0.6 FB group presenting 12% more (p < 0.01) crude protein digestibility than the control. Birds offered either 0.4 FB or 0.6 FB increased (p < 0.01) the population of beneficial bacteria while reducing (p < 0.01) pathogenic bacteria in the cecum compared to the control. Birds fed 0.6 FB showed substantial improvements in beneficial serum metabolites and liver health, along with reduced bad cholesterol compared with the control. Although FB was unaffected (p > 0.05) by dressed yield, meat composition, lightness, or bone characteristics, the 0.6 FB group showed substantially (p < 0.01) more meat redness and bone ash percentage in broilers than in the control. Conclusions: Supplementing 0.6 gm FB/kg of diet improved growth performance, enhanced digestibility, increased beneficial gut microbiota and serum metabolites, and ameliorated meat quality in broilers. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(4): 1-988, December 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k848

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the intron 2 region of the leptin (LEP) gene and the 5' untranslated region of the thyroglobulin (TG5) gene across four crossbred beef cattle populations, including Blanc Bleu Belge × Lai Brahman (BLB), Charolais × Lai Brahman (CLB), Droughtmaster × Lai Brahman (DLB), and Red Angus × Lai Brahman (RLB) raised in Central Vietnam. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 tail hair root samples (50 per group) were collected, and genomic DNA was extracted. The PCR-RFLP method was utilized to analyze the LEP and TG5 gene polymorphisms using the restriction enzymes Sau3AI and PsuI, respectively. Results: The SNPs of LEP/Sau3AI and TG5/PsuI were present in all populations, with a lower frequency of the LEPB allele compared to LEPA. The LEPAA genotype was most common, followed by LEPAB and LEPBB; notably, the LEPBB genotype was absent in the CLB group. The Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was observed for LEP/Sau3AI in the CLB and BLB populations. Conversely, the TG5CT genotype dominated all groups, with no individuals exhibiting the TG5TT genotype. None of the populations achieved Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium for TG5/PsuI. The level of polymorphism was moderate for LEP/Sau3AI in RLB and BLB and for TG5/PsuI across all groups. Conclusion: The SNPs of LEP/Sau3AI and TG5/PsuI may serve as valuable tools for genomic selection. By focusing on increasing the frequency of the TG5T allele, breeding programs can more effectively enhance beef marbling and other important traits, leading to improved beef quality and greater economic outcomes in the cattle industry. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 989-995]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the intron 2 region of the leptin (LEP) gene and the 5’ untranslated region of the thyroglobulin (TG5) gene acrossfour crossbred beef cattle populations, including Blanc Bleu Belge × Lai Brahman (BLB), Charolais × Lai Brahman (CLB), Droughtmaster × Lai Brahman (DLB), and Red Angus × Lai Brahman (RLB) raised in Central Vietnam. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 tail hair root samples (50 per group) were collected, and genomic DNA was extracted. The PCR-RFLP method was utilized to analyze the LEP and TG5 gene polymorphisms using the restriction enzymes Sau3AI and PsuI, respectively. Results: The SNPs of LEP/Sau3AI and TG5/PsuI were present in all populations, with a lower frequency of the LEPB allele compared to LEPA. The LEPAA genotype was most common, followed by LEPAB and LEPBB; notably, the LEPBB genotype was absent in the CLB group. The Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was observed for LEP/Sau3AI in the CLB and BLB populations. Conversely, the TG5CT genotype dominated all groups, with no individuals exhibiting the TG5TT genotype. None of the populations achieved Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium for TG5/PsuI. The level of polymorphism was moderate for LEP/Sau3AI in RLB and BLB and for TG5/PsuI across all groups. Conclusion: The SNPs of LEP/Sau3AI and TG5/PsuI may serve as valuable tools for genomic selection. By focusing on increasing the frequency of the TG5T allele, breeding programs can more effectively enhance beef marbling and other important traits, leading to improved beef quality and greater economic outcomes in the cattle industry. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(4): 989–995, December 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k849

Objective: To investigate the effect of quail egg supplements enriched with marine macroalgae Eucheuma spinosum on body weight and physiological conditions of Sprague Dawley rats during pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This study used a completely randomized experimental design. The test animals were 25 pregnant white rats aged 3 months and weighed ± 200 gm. Pregnant rats were divided into five treatments and five repetitions; each repetition contained one pregnant rat. T0: control treatment; T1: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed commercial feed; T2: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed with 3% E. spinosum; T3: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed with 4% E. spinosum; T4: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed with 5% E. spinosum. The parameters measured were egg proximate, egg iron, egg cholesterol, red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular Hb (MCH), mean corpuscular Hb concentration (MCHC), white blood cell (WBC), lymphocytes (LYM), neutrophils (NEUT), RBC distribution width (RDW), platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), glucose, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Results: The addition of E. spinosum into quail feed at concentrations of 3%, 4%, and 5% did not show statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) in the proximate levels (water, ash, fat, protein, and carbohydrates) compared to the control. However, the analysis of iron in quail eggs indicated a significant increase (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control treatment. In addition, the supplementation of E. spinosum in the quail feed resulted in significantly reduced (p < 0.05) quail egg cholesterol levels when compared to the control treatment. Furthermore, the supplementation of quail egg produced by quail fed with E. spinosum did not significantly affect the birth weight of the pups, RBC, MCV, MCH, MCHC, WBC, LYM, NEUT, RDW, PDW, MPV, MDA, and SOD when compared to the control treatment (p > 0.05). Meanwhile, the mother weight, Hb, HCT, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and glucose levels significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared to the control. Conclusion: The administration of E. spinosum with concentrations of 3%, 4%, and 5% can increase iron levels and decrease cholesterol levels in quail eggs. The administration of quail egg supplements produced by quail-fed additional macroalgae E. spinosum can increase body weight, Hb, and HCT in pregnant rats. The addition of marine macroalgae with concentrations of 4% and 5% can decrease the levels of cholesterol, LDL, and glucose and increase serum HDL levels in pregnant rats. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(4.000): 1114-1121]

Objective: To investigate the effect of quail egg supplements enriched with marine macroalgae Eucheuma spinosum on body weight and physiological conditions of Sprague Dawley rats during pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This study used a completely randomized experimental design. The test animals were 25 pregnant white rats aged 3 months and weighed ± 200 gm. Pregnant rats were divided into five treatments and five repetitions; each repetition contained one pregnant rat. T0: control treatment; T1: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed commercial feed; T2: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed with 3% E. spinosum; T3: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed with 4% E. spinosum; T4: treatment group consuming quail eggs from quail fed with 5% E. spinosum. The parameters measured were egg proximate, egg iron, egg cholesterol, red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular Hb (MCH), mean corpuscular Hb concentration (MCHC), white blood cell (WBC), lymphocytes (LYM), neutrophils (NEUT), RBC distribution width (RDW), platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), glucose, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Results: The addition of E. spinosum into quail feed at concentrations of 3%, 4%, and 5% did not show statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) in the proximate levels (water, ash, fat, protein, and carbohydrates) compared to the control. However, the analysis of iron in quail eggs indicated a significant increase (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control treatment. In addition, the supplementation of E. spinosum in the quail feed resulted in significantly reduced (p < 0.05) quail egg cholesterol levels when compared to the control treatment. Furthermore, the supplementation of quail egg produced by quail fed with E. spinosum did not significantly affect the birth weight of the pups, RBC, MCV, MCH, MCHC, WBC, LYM, NEUT, RDW, PDW, MPV, MDA, and SOD when compared to the control treatment (p > 0.05). Meanwhile, the mother weight, Hb, HCT, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and glucose levels significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared to the control. Conclusion: The administration of E. spinosum with concentrations of 3%, 4%, and 5% can increase iron levels and decrease cholesterol levels in quail eggs. The administration of quail egg supplements produced by quail-fed additional macroalgae E. spinosum can increase body weight, Hb, and HCT in pregnant rats. The addition of marine macroalgae with concentrations of 4% and 5% can decrease the levels of cholesterol, LDL, and glucose and increase serum HDL levels in pregnant rats. J. Adv. Vet. Anim. Res., 11(4): 1114–1121, December 2024 http://doi.org/10.5455/javar.2024.k862