Effects of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Supplemented Diet on Production Performance, Egg Quality and Humoral Immunity in Black Australorp and Fayoumi Layers

The present study intended to identify the effects of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast on production performance and parameters related to the quality of layers' eggs. Effects of yeast on immune titers after routine vaccinations against Newcastle disease and infectious bronchitis were also studied. Fayoumi chicken (n=288) were divided in four groups (72 in each), and Black Australorp (n=288) in four groups (72 in each). Both had 12 weeks of age and were kept in 08 groups (3 replicates per treatment). Hens were fed a controlled diet along with the addition of 0.5g, 1.0 g, and 1.5 g of S. cerevisiae per kg of feed, till 25 weeks of age. Feed intake and egg production were measured on a daily basis, while body weight gain and egg weight were measured weekly. Egg quality parameters were evaluated by picking 5 eggs from every group weekly. Birds were vaccinated for Newcastle disease (ND) and infectious bronchitis (IB) at the 18th week. Subsequently, 10 days after vaccination, antibody titers were determined by Hemagglutination Inhibition and Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay for both diseases. Results showed no significant effect of S. cerevisiae on layers' weight gain and feed intake. However, egg production was increased in the experimental group. Moreover, yeast supplementation impacted positively on birds' immune system. In conclusion, probiotic supplementation improved birds' egg production and immunity.(AU)

Immunological indices of Giant African Land snails (Archachatina marginata) improved with fixed dose of vitamin C during acute heat stress

The study determined immunological indices of Giant African Land snail (Archachatina marginata) improved with fixed dose of vitamin C under acute heat stress (AHS). Prior to the AHS, vitamin C was administered for four weeks to two treatment groups, while other two treatment groups were not. Each treatment was monitored, haemolymph collected at 0, 30 and 60 minutes exposure times. Immunological cytokines: interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin 2 (IL-2); and total haemocyte counts (THC) were determined. Under AHS, vitamin C elevated (p <0.05) IFN-γ production (606.33 ± 302.86) compared to other groups with or without vitamin C administration (7.20 ± 1.58 vs. 73.20 ± 32.23 vs. 7.80 ± 1.36). IL-2 was not affected (p >0.05) by vitamin C under AHS. Highest (p <0.05) THC values was obtained with vitamin C administration under AHS, but reduced under no AHS. Exposure time affected (p <0.05) IFN-γ production and THC values, but not IL-2 (p >0.05). With fixed dose of vitamin C and exposure time, highest (p <0.05) IFN-γ values were obtained under AHS with vitamin C administration at 30 minutes and at 60 minutes in THC, compared to other groups. The study concluded that fixed dose of vitamin C at 150 mg kg-1 of feed was appropriate under AHS to boost the immune system of the animals.(AU)

Aspectos da hemoplasmose em búfalos: revisão bibliográfica / Aspects of hemoplasmosis in buffaloes: literature review / Aspectos de la hemoplasmosis en búfalos: revisión de la literatura

Búfalos são animais rústicos que podem ser explorados para a produção de carne ou leite. Estes animais são susceptíveis a enfermidades que também acometem outras espécies de ruminantes, principalmente os bovinos. Entretanto, acredita-se que os bubalinos sejam mais resistentes a algumas doenças, mas ainda há poucos estudos epidemiológicos abrangendo doenças infecciosas como a hemoplasmose em búfalos. A hemoplasmose é causada por micoplasmas hemotrópicos ou hemoplasmas, que são bactérias gram-negativas causadoras de anemia hemolítica em hospedeiros imunocomprometidos. Mycoplasma wenyonii e 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemobos' são as principais espécies de hemoplasmas que podem infectar búfalos. A transmissão da doença ocorre principalmente por meio de vetores artrópodes hematófagos ou por via iatrogênica. O diagnóstico de animais infectados é realizado por meio da Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR). Medidas de prevenção e controle são essenciais para o controle desta enfermidade nos rebanhos bubalinos.

Buffalo are rustic animals that can be exploited for meat or milk production. These animals are susceptible to diseases that also affect other species of ruminants, especially cattle. However, it is believed that buffalo are more resistant to some diseases, but there are still few epidemiological studies covering infectious diseases such as hemoplasmosis in buffaloes. Hemoplasmosis is caused by hemotropic mycoplasmas or hemoplasmas, which are gram-negative bacteria that cause hemolytic anemia in immunocompromised hosts. Mycoplasma wenyonii and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemobos' are the main hemoplasma species that can infect buffaloes. Transmission of the disease occurs mainly via hematophagous arthropod vectors or iatrogenically. The diagnosis of infected animals is made by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Prevention and control measures are essential for the control of this disease in buffalo herds.

Los búfalos son animales rústicos que pueden ser explotados para la producción de carne o leche. Estos animales son susceptibles de contraer enfermedades que también afectan a otras especies de rumiantes, especialmente al ganado vacuno. Sin embargo, se cree que los búfalos son más resistentes a algunas enfermedades, pero todavía hay pocos estudios epidemiológicos sobre enfermedades infecciosas como la hemoplasmosis en búfalos. La hemoplasmosis está causada por micoplasmas hemotrópicos o hemoplasmas, que son bacterias gram negativas que causan anemia hemolítica en huéspedes inmunodeprimidos. Mycoplasma wenyonii y 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemobos' son las principales especies de hemoplasma que pueden infectar a los búfalos. La transmisión de la enfermedad se produce principalmente a través de vectores artrópodos hematófagos o de forma iatrogénica. El diagnóstico de los animales infectados se realiza mediante la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR). Las medidas de prevención y control son esenciales para controlar esta enfermedad en los rebaños de búfalos.

Cyclosporine A increases the intensity of Toxocara canis infection in swiss mice / Ciclosporina A aumenta a intensidade da infecção por Toxocara canis em camundongos suíços

Toxocariasis is a zoonotic disease of worldwide distribution. The connection between parasitic diseases and conditions that depress the immune system, such as the use of immunosuppressive drugs, has been studied. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Cyclosporine A (CsA) on the intensity of infection, humoral response and gene transcription of interleukins IL-4, IL-10 and IL-12 in mice experimentally infected with Toxocara canis. To this end, mice were divided into two groups treated with CsA (G1: 10 mg/Kg and G2: 50 mg/kg), the G3 and G4 group received PBS. After the last administration of the drug or PBS (orally every 48 hours for 15 days), groups G1, G2 and G3 were inoculated with 1200 eggs of T. canis. Was collected blood samples on days zero, 15 and 30 days post-inoculation (PI), for ELISA test and the mice were euthanized 30 days PI. The organs and striated muscle tissue were collected for the recovery of larvae. The splenocytes were analyzed by RT-PCR. The intensity of infection in the mice treated with 50 mg/kg of CsA was 65.5% higher than in the control group (p=0.001). An analysis of the kinetics of anti-Toxocara antibody revealed that the groups treated with CsA showed significantly higher mean levels of antibodies on day 15 PI. The transcription of the three tested interleukins showed no statistical difference between G2 and G3 (control). It was concluded that the immunosuppression triggered by CsA (50 mg/Kg) favored the establishment of a larger number of T. canis larvae without, however, altering immunoglobulin production and IL-4, IL-10 and IL-12 transcription on day 30 PI.

A toxocaríase é uma zoonose de distribuição mundial. A conexão entre doenças parasitárias e condições que deprimem o sistema imunológico, como o uso de drogas imunossupressoras, tem sido estudada. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da Ciclosporina A (CsA) na intensidade da infecção, resposta humoral e transcrição gênica das interleucinas IL-4, IL-10 e IL-12 em camundongos experimentalmente infectados com Toxocara canis. Para tanto, os camundongos foram divididos em dois grupos tratados com CsA (G1: 10 mg/Kg e G2: 50 mg/kg), os grupos G3 e G4 receberam PBS. Após a última administração da droga ou PBS (via oral a cada 48 horas por 15 dias), os grupos G1, G2 e G3 foram inoculados com 1200 ovos de T. canis. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue nos dias zero, 15 e 30 dias pós-inoculação (PI), para teste de ELISA e os camundongos foram eutanasiados 30 dias PI. Os órgãos e tecido muscular estriado foram coletados para a recuperação das larvas. Os esplenócitos foram analisados ​​por RT-PCR. A intensidade da infecção nos camundongos tratados com 50 mg/kg de CsA foi 65,5% maior do que no grupo controle (p=0,001). Uma análise da cinética do anticorpo anti-Toxocara revelou que os grupos tratados com CsA apresentaram níveis médios de anticorpos significativamente maiores no dia 15 PI. A transcrição das três interleucinas testadas não apresentou diferença estatística entre G2 e G3 (controle). Concluiu-se que a imunossupressão desencadeada pela CsA (50 mg/Kg) favoreceu o estabelecimento de um maior número de larvas de T. canis sem, no entanto, alterar a produção de imunoglobulinas e a transcrição de IL-4, IL-10 e IL-12 no dia 30 PI.

Pitiose gástrica em canino jovem / Gastric pythiosis in a young canine

Pitiose gástrica canina é uma afecção crônica granulomatosa causada pelo pseudo-fungo Pythium insidiosum que ocasiona espessamento trasnsmural do estômago. Relata-se um caso de gastrite fúngica em um canino dobermann de 1 ano, macho, atendido no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso, campus Sinop-MT, com sinais clínicos de diarreia escura intermitente, regurgitação, êmese e anorexia progressiva por cerca de três meses. No exame ultrassonográfico, observou espessamento gástrico difuso. Devido ao prognóstico ruim, foi realizado eutanásia. Na macroscopia, havia espessamento difuso da parede do estômago e petéquias multifocais por toda a mucosa. Na microscopia havia acentuado infiltrado inflamatório granulomatoso por toda a submucosa e muscular. Foi realizado coloração de metenamina nitrato de prata de Grocott (GMS), com evidenciação de hifas cenocíticas, raras septação e diâmetro de 6-10µm. A confirmação do diagnóstico e identificação do agente foi realizado através Imuno-histoquímica com anticorpo primário para Pythium insidiosum.

Canine gastric pythiosis is a chronic granulomatous infection caused by the insidious pythi fungus that causes stomach thickening. We report a case of fungal gastritis in a 1-year-old male progressive Doberman canine treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Mato Grosso, Sinop-MT campus, with clinical signs of intermittent diarrhea, regurgitation, vomiting and anorexia for about three months. On ultrasound examination, diffuse gastric thickening was observed. Due to the poor prognosis, euthanasia was performed. Macroscopically, there was diffuse thickening of the stomach wall and multifocal petechiae throughout the mucosa. On microscopy, there was a marked granulomatous inflammatory infiltrate throughout the submucosa and muscle Production of Grocott silver nitrate methenamine (GMS) was performed with evidence of cenocytic hyphae, rare septation and diameter of 6-10µm. Confirmation of the diagnosis and identification of the agent was performed through Immunohistochemistry with primary antibody to Pythium insidiosum.

Recombinant expression and antigenicity of two peptide families of neurotoxins from Androctonus sp

Background: Scorpion neurotoxins such as those that modify the mammalian voltagegated sodium ion channels (Nav) are the main responsible for scorpion envenomation. Their neutralization is crucial in the production of antivenoms against scorpion stings. Methods: In the present study, two in silico designed genes ­ one that codes for a native neurotoxin from the venom of the Anatolian scorpion Androctonus crassicauda, named Acra 4 ­ and another non-native toxin ­ named consensus scorpion toxin (SccTx) obtained from the alignment of the primary structures of the most toxic neurotoxins from the Middle Eastern and North African scorpions ­ were recombinantly expressed in E. coli Origami. Results: Following bacterial expression, the two expressed neurotoxins, hereafter named HisrAcra4 and HisrSccTx, were obtained from inclusion bodies. Both recombinant neurotoxins were obtained in multiple Cys-Cys isoforms. After refolding, the active protein fractions were identified with molecular masses of 8,947.6 and 9,989.1 Da for HisrAcra4 and HisrSccTx, respectively, which agreed with their expected theoretical masses. HisrAcra4 and HisrSccTx were used as antigens to immunize two groups of rabbits, to produce either anti-HisrAcra4 or anti-HisrSccTx serum antibodies, which in turn could recognize and neutralize neurotoxins from venoms of scorpion species from the Middle East and North Africa. The antibodies obtained from rabbits neutralized the 3LD50 of Androctonus australis, Leiurus quinquestriatus hebraeus and Buthus occitanus venoms, but they did not neutralize A. crassicauda and A. mauritanicus venoms. In addition, the anti-HisrAcra4 antibodies did not neutralize any of the five scorpion venoms tested. However, an antibody blend of anti-HisrAcra4 and anti-HisrSccTx was able to neutralize A. crassicauda and A. mauritanicus venoms. Conclusions: Two recombinant Nav neurotoxins, from different peptide families, were used as antigens to generate IgGs for neutralizing scorpion venoms of species from the Middle East and North Africa.(AU)

Pathomorphological lesions in the ovaries of water buffaloes

Background: Buffalo breeding is common in many countries. Buffalo's milk is used in the production of mozzarella, yoghurt, ice cream, and various dairy desserts; meat is preferred in sausage production. The female buffaloes are bred to benefit from their milk and to obtain offspring. These animals, which are not suitable for feeding in barns, generally live in pastures, especially on wet land, and are very difficult to follow. Therefore, diseases occur randomly in slaughterhouses. Studies on genital system problems are very limited. Water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) are animals with economic value as many buffalo products are provided. In this respect, inspection and control of female genital disorders is fundamental to ensure good reproductive performance of female buffaloes. The aim of the study was to investigate pathomorphological lesions occurring in the ovaries of water buffaloes which were sent to slaughterhouses. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 198 ovaries of water buffaloes were collected from various slaughterhouses located in Adapazari, Istanbul, Kocaeli, Samsun and Trabzon cities of Turkey. After macroscopic examination; tissue samples were fixed in 10 % buffered formalin, processed routinely and were stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE). As a histochemical staining, Masson's trichrome staining was applied to characterize the lesions. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed on 10 % neutral formalin fixed, paraffin-embedded, 4-6-µm-thick sections from ovaries using progesterone receptor (PR) with streptavidin-biotin complex peroxidase (StrepABC-P) method. Histopathologically, follicular cysts (n:147) and luteal cysts (n:22) were seen. While the cyst lumens were sometimes surrounded by granulosa and/or luteal cells, most of them were limited by the connective tissue capsule structure. This capsule structure was shown in blue by Masson's trichrome staining. Hemorrhage was observed in some cystic corpus luteum, diagnosed as corpus hemorrhagicum. In addition, cysts giving papillary extension into the lumen and inflammation of some ovaries were observed. Immunohistochemically, the staining with PR antibody in ovarian cysts showed no immunolabelling around the follicular cyst, while the nuclei of some of the luteal cells forming the luteal cyst had strongly nuclear positivity and slightly cytoplasmic positivity. In the biochemical examination of the fluids obtained from cystic ovaries (n: 37), the average of estradiol was 2.84 ng/mL (min: 0.01 ng/mL, max: 4.30 ng/mL) and progesterone average is 49.09 ng/mL (min: 1.88 ng/mL, max: 254.2 ng/mL). Discussion: Ovarian cysts in buffaloes seem to be among the serious fertility problems as in cattle. Although the exact cause of ovarian cyts has not been determined yet, it is known that the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is disrupted in cyst formation in general. In this study, the mean estradiol value was within the standard range but close to the lower limit; progesterone value was above the limit. The increase in progesterone level was compatible with the pathogenesis of cyst genesis. Beside this result, staining with PR was positive in the luteal cells that formed the luteal cyst immunohistochemically. In addition, although the hemorrhages observed in the corpus luteum are considered physiological, it should not be forgotten that they can be vital if they rupture. All these results show us the animals sent for slaughtering mostly have serious genital problems threatening their fertility.

Production of polyclonal antibodies anti - Igm of nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus for standardization of immunoenzymatic assay / Produção de anticorpos policlonais anti - Igm de tilápia-do-nilo, Oreochromis niloticus para padronização de ensaio imunoenzimático

In this letter, we describe the development of an immunodiagnostic assay capable of detecting specific IgM in the blood circulation of experimental Nile tilapia that received the vaccine against S. agalactiae.(AU)

Production of polyclonal antibodies anti - Igm of nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus for standardization of immunoenzymatic assay / Produção de anticorpos policlonais anti - Igm de tilápia-do-nilo, Oreochromis niloticus para padronização de ensaio imunoenzimático

In this letter, we describe the development of an immunodiagnostic assay capable of detecting specific IgM in the blood circulation of experimental Nile tilapia that received the vaccine against S. agalactiae.

Sensitization with Eustrongylides sp. (Nematoda: Dioctophymatidae) antigens induce production of specific IgG and IgE in murine model / Sensibilização com antígenos de Eustrongylides sp. (Nematoda: Dioctophymatidae) induzindo a produção de IgG e IgE em modelo murino

Fish consumption plays an important role in human diet. Hoplias malabaricus, commonly known as traíra, is a freshwater fish widely appreciated in several Brazilian states and frequently infected by Eustrongylides sp. fourth-instar larvae (L4). The aim of the present study was to evaluate allergenic potential of Eustrongylides sp. L4 crude extract (CEE). BALB/c mice were immunized intraperitoneally (IP) by 10 g CEE with 2 mg of aluminum hydroxide on days 0 and 35. Specific IgG and IgE antibody levels were determined after immunization and cellular immunity was evaluated by assessing intradermal reaction in ear pavilion. Epicutaneous sensitization was performed in dorsal region by antigen exposure using a Finn-type chamber containing 50 g of CEE or saline solution, followed by evaluation of specific antibody levels. IP immunization resulted in a gradual increase in IgG antibody levels and transitory IgE production. Significant increase in ear thickness was observed in cellular hypersensitivity reaction. In case of antigen exposure by epicutaneous route, CEE was able to induce meaningfully increased levels of specific IgG and IgE antibodies as well as heightened cellular immunity. Both intraperitoneal immunization and epicutaneous contact with Eustrongylides sp. larval antigens were observed for first time to be capable of inducing immunological sensitization in mice.(AU)

Consumir peixe constitui papel importante na dieta humana. Hoplias malabaricus, comumente chamado de traíra, peixe de água doce largamente apreciado no Brasil, é frequentemente infectado com larvas de quarto estágio (L4) de Eustrongylides sp. O presente estudo objetivou avaliar o potencial alergênico do Extrato Bruto de L4 de Eustrongylides sp. (EBE). Camundongos BALB/c foram imunizados intraperitonealmente (IP) por 10 g de EBE com 2 mg de hidróxido de alumínio nos dias 0 e 35. Após imunização, determinaram-se níveis específicos de anticorpos IgG e IgE e avaliou-se a imunidade celular pela reação intradérmica no pavilhão auricular. Realizou-se sensibilização epicutânea na região dorsal pela exposição ao antígeno, utilizando-se câmara tipo Finn, contendo 50 g de CEE ou solução salina. Após exposições, foram avaliados níveis específicos de anticorpos. Na imunização via IP, houve aumento gradual nos níveis de anticorpos IgG e produção de IgE transitória. Foi observado aumento significativo na espessura do pavilhão auricular na reação de hipersensibilidade celular. Na exposição ao antígeno pela via epicutânea, o EBE induziu aumento significante nos níveis de anticorpos IgG e IgE específicos e induziu imunidade celular. Pela primeira vez, observou-se que a imunização intraperitoneal e contato epicutâneo com antígenos larvares de Eustrongylides sp. são capazes de induzir sensibilização imunológica em camundongos.(AU)

Anemia hemolítica imunomediada medicamentosa em uma cadela / Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in a bitch triggered by drugs

Background: Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is characterized by an autoimmune response with production of auto-antibodies and destruction of erythrocytes resulting in anemia. Primary IMHA is referred to a condition when the cause is unknown (idiopathic), whereas secondary IMHA involves changes in red blood cells caused by the action of drugs, neoplasms, or infectious diseases. The diagnosis can be made through changes in the blood count, usually of a regenerative character, Coombs test, and autoagglutination test. The present study aimed to report a case of drug-induced hemolytic anemia, with emphasis on the clinical signs, diagnostic methods, and treatment, in a female dog. Case: A 9-year-old mixed-breed bitch weighing 29.6 kg was referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (HCVUFRGS) with a previous diagnosis of gallbladder mucocele that was unresponsive to clinical treatment. After laboratory tests, cholecystectomy was performed, and the procedure required conversion from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy. Therapy included administration of amoxicillin, dipyrone, tramadol hydrochloride, and meloxicam. Three days after surgery, the dog presented with apathy, lethargy, hyporexia, and a pale and subicteric mucosa. The patient developed hypochromic macrocytic anemia with reticulocytosis, spherocytosis, anisocytosis, and leukocytosis with neutrophilia. The result of the autoagglutination test was positive, confirming the diagnosis. All medications were suspended, and immunosuppressive treatment with dexamethasone was included, with a subsequent switch to prednisolone. After 10 days of treatment, the patient experienced significant improvement, and therapy was discontinued. Discussion: Based on the patient's history, the cause of the IMHA was secondary to drug administration, and it is not possible to distinguish if it was due to one or a combination of drugs, as they were all started and stopped simultaneously. The patient had hypothyroidism, which may have contributed to the production of antibodies against TSH receptors, blocking the hormone's action, thereby causing tissue damage due to T cell-mediated cytotoxicity and the effect of cytokines. The pale and subicteric mucosa, apathy, weakness, lethargy, exercise intolerance, and dyspnea resulted from extravascular hemolysis and bilirubin released from erythrocyte rupture with a subsequent decrease in the number of red blood cells, leading to oxygen transport deficiency. The diagnosis is based on the blood count and results of autoagglutination supported by the response to immunosuppressive therapy. Anemia results in increased production and release of precursor cells from the bone marrow, accompanied by reticulocytosis and increased mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). The treatment of IMHA consists of supportive care and immunosuppressive therapy with corticosteroids to ensure suppression of the immune system, preventing response against erythrocytes. Initially, tramadol hydrochloride, dipyrone, and amoxicillin with potassium clavulanate were suspended to interrupt the cause of IMHA, and administration of dexamethasone in an immunosuppressive dose was started. Therefore, it is important to include drug-induced IMHA in the differential diagnosis of patients who present with anemia after using medications. Early diagnosis, initiation of therapy, and adequate care were important factors for the recovery of the animal.

Tarragon (Artemisia Dracunculus L. ) Could Alleviate Negative Effects of Stocking Density in Laying Hens

The study was conducted to determine the effects of stocking density (SD, 5 or 7 layers/cage) and tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) diet supplementation at four levels (0, 1.2, 6 and 12 g/kg feed) on performance, certain egg characteristics, serum, liver, egg yolk and small intestine bacteria parameters in laying hens. The experiment was carried out over a period of 8 weeks, with 192 Lohman Brown commercial hybrids at 50-w-age. The results showed that an increased SD reduced feed intake (FI; p 0.01) and egg production (p 0.05), but had no effect on the weight gain, feed conversion ratio, damaged egg ratio, egg weight and egg quality (p>0.05) parameters. The supplementation of tarragon to the diet reduced the FI and damaged egg ratio (p 0.01), and improved egg production and FCR (p 0.01). While an increased SD reduced serum total antioxidants (p 0.05), it elevated corticosterone (CORT) and total oxidant serum (TOS) (p 0.05). Tarragon was found to enhance total immunoglobulin (p 0.05), but to decreased the CORT and TOS of the serum (p 0.05). An increased SD raised the malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum (p 0.001), liver (p 0.05) and yolk (p 0.001). Tarragon supplementation reduced MDA of the serum (p 0.05), liver (p 0.001) and yolk (p 0.001). E. coli and total Mesophilic Aerobic Bacteria counts in the small intestine were raised (p 0.001) with increased SD. Tarragon decreased (p 0.05) mesophilic aerobic bacteria. It was thus found that, tarragon supplementation can be considered generally effective in improving performance parameters, alleviating stress-induced negativities, reducing lipid peroxidation, regulating the immune system and controlling some intestinal microorganisms.(AU)

Tarragon (Artemisia Dracunculus L. ) Could Alleviate Negative Effects of Stocking Density in Laying Hens

The study was conducted to determine the effects of stocking density (SD, 5 or 7 layers/cage) and tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) diet supplementation at four levels (0, 1.2, 6 and 12 g/kg feed) on performance, certain egg characteristics, serum, liver, egg yolk and small intestine bacteria parameters in laying hens. The experiment was carried out over a period of 8 weeks, with 192 Lohman Brown commercial hybrids at 50-w-age. The results showed that an increased SD reduced feed intake (FI; p 0.01) and egg production (p 0.05), but had no effect on the weight gain, feed conversion ratio, damaged egg ratio, egg weight and egg quality (p>0.05) parameters. The supplementation of tarragon to the diet reduced the FI and damaged egg ratio (p 0.01), and improved egg production and FCR (p 0.01). While an increased SD reduced serum total antioxidants (p 0.05), it elevated corticosterone (CORT) and total oxidant serum (TOS) (p 0.05). Tarragon was found to enhance total immunoglobulin (p 0.05), but to decreased the CORT and TOS of the serum (p 0.05). An increased SD raised the malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum (p 0.001), liver (p 0.05) and yolk (p 0.001). Tarragon supplementation reduced MDA of the serum (p 0.05), liver (p 0.001) and yolk (p 0.001). E. coli and total Mesophilic Aerobic Bacteria counts in the small intestine were raised (p 0.001) with increased SD. Tarragon decreased (p 0.05) mesophilic aerobic bacteria. It was thus found that, tarragon supplementation can be considered generally effective in improving performance parameters, alleviating stress-induced negativities, reducing lipid peroxidation, regulating the immune system and controlling some intestinal microorganisms.

Immune response in Santa Inês sheep during Fasciola hepatica infection / Resposta imune em ovinos da raça Santa Inês durante a infecção por Fasciola hepatica

In the present study, we describe the proliferative response and the IFN-γ, IL-10, IL-4 cytokine expression profiles in peripheral blood, and IgG production, after the experimental infection of Santa Inês sheep with 250 Fasciola hepatica metacercariae that were evaluated at 60 and 210 days post-infection(dpi). The cytokine expression profile at 60 dpi was characterized by the production of IFN-γ and IL-10, which is indicative of an initial mixed Th1/Th2 response. The modulation of the response occurred at 210 dpi with a predominance of IL-10 and IL-4 over IFN-γ. Mononuclear cells from peripheral blood stimulated with F. hepatica antigen exhibited proliferative capacity at 60 dpi, whereas the response was consistent with modulation from Th1 to Th2 in the chronic phase. The IgG antibody response was more marked at 60 days than at 210 dpi, confirming the mixed-response profile. The late modulation of the T lymphocyte response in association with the predominance of IL-10 and IL-4 at 210 dpi suggests the involvement of these cytokines after the establishment of the parasites in the bile ducts. The transition from a mixed to a regulatory response in the chronic phase was also accompanied by a reduced number of eggs per gram of feces.(AU)

No presente estudo, observou-se a resposta proliferativa e os perfis de expressão de citocinas IFN-γ, IL10, IL-4 no sangue periférico, e a produção de IgG, aos 60 e 210 dias após infecção (dpi) experimental de ovinos Santa Inês com 250 metacercárias de Fasciola hepatica. O perfil de expressão de citocinas aos 60 dpi foi caracterizado pela produção de IFN-γ e IL-10, o que é indicativo de uma resposta mista inicial Th1/ Th2. A modulação da resposta ocorreu aos 210 dpi, com predominância de IL-10 e IL-4 sobre IFN-γ. As células mononucleares do sangue periférico estimuladas com antígeno total de F. hepatica adulta exibiram capacidade proliferativa aos 60 dpi, enquanto a resposta foi consistente com uma modulação de Th1 para Th2 na fase crônica. A resposta do anticorpo IgG foi maior aos 60 dpi do que aos 210 dpi. A modulação tardia da resposta dos linfócitos T em associação com a predominância de IL-10 e IL-4 aos 210 dpi sugere o envolvimento dessas citocinas após o estabelecimento dos parasitos nos ductos biliares. A transição de uma resposta mista para uma resposta com pefil regulador na fase crônica também foi acompanhada por redução dos ovos por grama de fezes.(AU)

Relationship of circulating tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alfa) and insulin secretion and resistance in euglycaemic dogs

Background: Insulin resistance is a state that is characterized with reduced sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin. Itcan be related with increased level of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in dogs. Insulin resistance can be evaluated byhomeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR, HOMA-β). The aim of this study was to determine correlation of circulatingTNF-α level with insulin production and insulin resistance indexes in euglycaemic dogs.Materials, Methods & Results: Seventy dogs of normal body score were included in this study. After blood sampling levelsof glucose, insulin and TNF-α were determined and indexes HOMA-IR and HOMA-β were calculated. Three groups inaccordance to TNF-α levels were formed: the first-TNF-α 0-2.0 pg/mL, the second-TNF-α below median (2.1-17.0 pg/mL)and the third-TNF-α above median (17.1-51.8 pg/mL). Differences in insulin and glucose levels, HOMA-IR and HOMA-βwere determined in all three groups. ANOVA and posthock LSD analyses were used. Correlation between HOMA-IR andHOMA-β was determined. Linear regression between HOMA-β/HOMA-IR ratio and glucose concentration was calculated. SPSS statistical program was used (IBM). Highest insulin level was detected in the second group and the lowest wasdetected in the third group. The lowest glucose level was detected in the first group. The highest value of HOMA-β indexwas noted in the first group and it decreases with TNF-α increase. The highest HOMA-IR value was detected in the secondgroup and the lowest was in the third group. Positive correlation was noted between HOMA-IR and HOMA-β. Significantlinear correlation was noted between glucose levels in function of HOMA-β/HOMA-IR...

Relationship of circulating tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alfa) and insulin secretion and resistance in euglycaemic dogs

Background: Insulin resistance is a state that is characterized with reduced sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin. Itcan be related with increased level of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in dogs. Insulin resistance can be evaluated byhomeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR, HOMA-β). The aim of this study was to determine correlation of circulatingTNF-α level with insulin production and insulin resistance indexes in euglycaemic dogs.Materials, Methods & Results: Seventy dogs of normal body score were included in this study. After blood sampling levelsof glucose, insulin and TNF-α were determined and indexes HOMA-IR and HOMA-β were calculated. Three groups inaccordance to TNF-α levels were formed: the first-TNF-α 0-2.0 pg/mL, the second-TNF-α below median (2.1-17.0 pg/mL)and the third-TNF-α above median (17.1-51.8 pg/mL). Differences in insulin and glucose levels, HOMA-IR and HOMA-βwere determined in all three groups. ANOVA and posthock LSD analyses were used. Correlation between HOMA-IR andHOMA-β was determined. Linear regression between HOMA-β/HOMA-IR ratio and glucose concentration was calculated. SPSS statistical program was used (IBM). Highest insulin level was detected in the second group and the lowest wasdetected in the third group. The lowest glucose level was detected in the first group. The highest value of HOMA-β indexwas noted in the first group and it decreases with TNF-α increase. The highest HOMA-IR value was detected in the secondgroup and the lowest was in the third group. Positive correlation was noted between HOMA-IR and HOMA-β. Significantlinear correlation was noted between glucose levels in function of HOMA-β/HOMA-IR...(AU)

Zika virus serological diagnosis: commercial tests and monoclonal antibodies as tools

Zika virus (ZIKV), an emerging arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) of the Flaviviridae family, is a current issue worldwide, particularly because of the congenital and neurological syndromes associated with infection by this virus. As the initial clinical symptoms of all diseases caused by this group are very similar, clinical diagnosis is difficult. Furthermore, laboratory diagnostic efforts have failed to identify specific and accurate tests for each virus of the Flaviviridae family due to the cross-reactivity of these viruses in serum samples. This situation has resulted in underreporting of the diseases caused by flaviviruses. However, many companies developed commercial diagnostic tests after the recent ZIKV outbreak. Moreover, health regulatory agencies have approved different commercial tests to extend the monitoring of ZIKV infections. Considering that a specific and sensitive diagnostic method for estimating risk and evaluating ZIKV propagation is still needed, this review aims to provide an update of the main commercially approved serological diagnostics test by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA). Additionally, we present the technologies used for monoclonal antibody production as a tool for the development of diagnostic tests and applications of these antibodies in detecting ZIKV infections worldwide.(AU)

Chicken antibodies against venom proteins of Trimeresurus stejnegeri in Taiwan

The venom of bamboo vipers (Trimeresurus stejnegeri - TS), commonly found in Taiwan, contains deadly hemotoxins that cause severe envenomation. Equine-derived antivenom is a specific treatment against snakebites, but its production costs are high and there are some inevitable side effects. The aim of the present work is to help in the development of an affordable and more endurable therapeutic strategy for snakebites. Methods: T. stejnegeri venom proteins were inactivated by glutaraldehyde in order to immunize hens for polyclonal immunoglobulin (IgY) antibodies production. After IgY binding assays, two antibody libraries were constructed expressing single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibodies joined by the short or long linker for use in phage display antibody technology. Four rounds of biopanning were carried out. The selected scFv antibodies were then further tested for their binding activities and neutralization assays to TS proteins. Results: Purified IgY from egg yolk showed the specific binding ability to TS proteins. The dimensions of these two libraries contain 2.4 × 107 and 6.8 × 107 antibody clones, respectively. An increase in the titers of eluted phage indicated anti-TS clones remarkably enriched after 2nd panning. The analysis based on the nucleotide sequences of selected scFv clones indicated that seven groups of short linkers and four groups of long linkers were identified. The recombinant scFvs showed significant reactivity to TS venom proteins and a cross-reaction to Trimeresurus mucrosquamatus venom proteins. In in vivo studies, the data demonstrated that anti-TS IgY provided 100% protective effects while combined scFvs augmented partial survival time of mice injected with a lethal amount of TS proteins. Conclusion: Chickens were excellent hosts for the production of neutralization antibodies at low cost. Phage display technology is available for generation of monoclonal antibodies against snake venom proteins. These antibodies could be applied in the development of diagnostic kits or as an alternative for snakebite envenomation treatment in the near future.(AU)

Chicken antibodies against venom proteins of Trimeresurus stejnegeri in Taiwan

The venom of bamboo vipers (Trimeresurus stejnegeri - TS), commonly found in Taiwan, contains deadly hemotoxins that cause severe envenomation. Equine-derived antivenom is a specific treatment against snakebites, but its production costs are high and there are some inevitable side effects. The aim of the present work is to help in the development of an affordable and more endurable therapeutic strategy for snakebites. Methods: T. stejnegeri venom proteins were inactivated by glutaraldehyde in order to immunize hens for polyclonal immunoglobulin (IgY) antibodies production. After IgY binding assays, two antibody libraries were constructed expressing single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibodies joined by the short or long linker for use in phage display antibody technology. Four rounds of biopanning were carried out. The selected scFv antibodies were then further tested for their binding activities and neutralization assays to TS proteins. Results: Purified IgY from egg yolk showed the specific binding ability to TS proteins. The dimensions of these two libraries contain 2.4 × 107 and 6.8 × 107 antibody clones, respectively. An increase in the titers of eluted phage indicated anti-TS clones remarkably enriched after 2nd panning. The analysis based on the nucleotide sequences of selected scFv clones indicated that seven groups of short linkers and four groups of long linkers were identified. The recombinant scFvs showed significant reactivity to TS venom proteins and a cross-reaction to Trimeresurus mucrosquamatus venom proteins. In in vivo studies, the data demonstrated that anti-TS IgY provided 100% protective effects while combined scFvs augmented partial survival time of mice injected with a lethal amount of TS proteins. Conclusion: Chickens were excellent hosts for the production of neutralization antibodies at low cost. Phage display technology is available for generation of monoclonal antibodies against snake venom proteins. These antibodies could be applied in the development of diagnostic kits or as an alternative for snakebite envenomation treatment in the near future.(AU)

Morphology, Blood Chemistry and Behavioral Response of Crossbred Chickens Reared Under Alternative Production Systems

In the present study, the second generation of two genotypes RNN (Rhode Island Red × Naked Neck) and BNN (Black Australorp × Naked Neck) obtained by two self-crosses (RNN × RNN =RR and BNN × BNN= BB) and two reciprocal crosses (RNN × BNN = RB and BNN × RNN = BR) were evaluated in three alternative production systems (conventional cages, enriched cages, and aviary). In total 480 birds, comprising 240 pullets with 240 cockerels (60 pullets & 60 cockerels from each crossbred) were used during rearing phase (17-21 weeks). Higher body weight, shank circumference, body and drumstick length were noticed in RB and BR genotypes. Among different production systems, chickens reared in enriched cages showed higher body weight and body lengths than other production systems. Comparing the behavior of chickens, higher feeding, jumping and dust bathing were observed in chickens reared in aviary systems than in other production systems while the maximum perching behavior was showed by the chickens reared in enriched cages. The highest glucose level was observed in RR genotypes when reared in aviary systems. Antibody titers against ND and IB were highest in chickens reared in aviary systems. In conclusion, RB and BR genotypes had better performance in terms of morphometrics and blood biochemistry when reared under enriched cages and aviary systems.(AU)