Total phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidant, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of several big chili (Capsicum annuum L.) genotypes / Conteúdo fenólico total e flavonóide, atividades antioxidantes e inibitórias da α-glucosidase de vários genótipos de pimentão (Capsicum annuum L.)

ABSTRACT: Big chili has the largest fruit size compared to other types of chili. In addition to having a spicy taste, big chilies contain other beneficial biochemicals such as phenolics, flavonoids, antioxidants, and α-glucosidase inhibitors that have the potential to be developed for functional tropical plants. Information on the content is still not widely found. Therefore, this study identified biochemical compounds (TPC, TFC, DPPH, FRAP, AGI) in several genotypes of big chili peppers. From October to November 2021, we conducted a study using the microplate reader method. We repeated the experiment three times. The research design used was a completely randomized design with a single factor genotype. A total of 22 genotypes of big chili were used in this study. The big chili genotype F6074136-2-3-2-3 had the highest content of α-glucosidase inhibitor and antioxidant FRAP compared to other genotypes 67.62% and 71.20 mol TE/g extract. The genotypes CK 12 and F6074077-1-1-3-1 indicated the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents. The correlation between biochemical parameters showed that TPC-AGI and TPC-DPPH were significantly negatively correlated. The conclusion is that the information in this study can be the basis for the development of functional tropical plants in future research.

RESUMO: O pimentão grande tem o maior tamanho de fruta em comparação com outros tipos de pimentão. Além de ter um sabor picante, os pimentões grandes contêm outros bioquímicos benéficos, como fenólicos, flavonóides, antioxidantes e inibidores de α-glicosidase, que têm potencial para serem desenvolvidos para plantas tropicais funcionais. Informações sobre o conteúdo ainda não são amplamente encontradas. Portanto, este estudo teve como objetivo identificar compostos bioquímicos (TPC, TFC, DPPH, FRAP, AGI) em diversos genótipos de pimentão. O estudo foi conduzido de outubro a novembro de 2021 usando o método do leitor de microplaca. Os dados obtidos foram repetidos três vezes. O desenho de pesquisa usado foi um desenho inteiramente casualizado com um genótipo de fator único. Um total de 22 genótipos de pimentão grande foi usado neste estudo. O genótipo big chili F6074136-2-3-2-3 apresentou o maior teor de inibidor de α-glucosidase e antioxidante FRAP em comparação com outros genótipos 67,62% e 71,20 mol TE / g de extrato. O maior teor de fenólicos e flavonóides neste estudo foi indicado pelos genótipos CK 12 e F6074077-1-1-3-1. A correlação entre os parâmetros bioquímicos mostrou que TPC-AGI e TPC-DPPH foram significativamente correlacionados negativamente. Conclui-se que as informações deste estudo podem servir de base para o desenvolvimento de plantas tropicais funcionais em pesquisas futuras.

Influence on clinical biochemistry values of black-tufted marmosets (Callithrix penicillata) anesthetized with isoflurane or sevoflurane / Influência sobre valores de bioquímica clínica de saguis-de-tufo-preto (Callithrix penicillata) anestesiados com isoflurano ou sevoflurano

The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical biochemistry behavior of Black-Tufted Marmosets (Callithrix penicillatta) submitted to blood collection without sedation and after general anesthesia with anesthetics isoflurane or sevoflurane. Blood collections were performed on (M1) day before anesthesia by physical restraint, and (M2) after anesthesia. There were four groups: Isoflurane (GI) and Sevoflurane (GS) using an anesthetic box. GIM: isoflurane induction with mask for a shorter period. Control group (GP): physical restraint in both moments. Plasma was separated and frozen to measure clinic biochemistry values. Urea was higher at M2 in groups GI and GP. AST was higher in M2 in GI, GS, and GP and only GI showed an increase in CK in M2. Glucose was higher in M1 in the GI, GS, and GP groups and fructosamine was higher in M2 in the GI. Stress caused by physical restraint can cause biochemical changes and these must be considered when interpreting the exams. Both the inhalational anesthetic isoflurane and sevoflurane did not cause clinically significant changes in clinical biochemistry results.

O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar o comportamento da bioquímica clínica de saguis-do-tufo-preto (Callithrix penicillatta) submetidos à coleta sanguínea sem sedação e após anestesia geral, com os anestésicos isoflurano ou sevoflurano. As coletas de sangue foram realizadas: (M1) dia antes da anestesia por contenção física e (M2) após anestesia. Foram definidos quatro grupos: isoflurano (GI) e sevoflurano (GS), utilizando caixa anestésica; GIM: indução com isoflurano com máscara por um período menor; grupo controle (GCF): contenção física em ambos os momentos. O plasma com EDTA foi separado e congelado para realizar dosagem da bioquímica clínica. A ureia foi maior no M2 nos grupos GI e GCF. A AST foi maior no M2 nos GI, GS e GCF e somente o GI apresentou aumento de CK no M2. A glicose foi maior no M1 nos grupos GI, GS e GCF, e a frutosamina foi maior no M2 no GI. O estresse causado pela contenção física pode causar alterações bioquímicas e essas devem ser levadas em consideração na interpretação dos exames. Tanto o anestésico inalatório isoflurano quanto o sevoflurano não causaram alterações clinicamente significantes nos resultados da bioquímica clínica.

Hematological parameters in endurance horses pre and post 120 km race / Parâmetros hematológicos em cavalos de enduro pré e pós prova de 120 km

The endurance discipline has the shortest history in Bulgaria compared with other disciplines of equestrian sports. Endurance competitions are held over distances from 40 km to 160 km. The present study focused on the effect of exercise on horses over a distance of 120 km. Changes in the following hematological parameters were investigated:Leukocytes (WBC, g/l); Erythrocytes (RBC, T/l); Platelets (PLT, g/l); Hemoglobin (Hb, g/l); Hematocrit (HCT,%); Mean corpuscular volume(MCV, fl); Mean corpuscular hemoglobin(MCH, pg); Mean cell hemoglobin concentration(MCHC, g/l), Leukogram (Eos; Bas; Neu; Lym; Mon,%) as well as some electrolytes and hormone concentration. The study aimed to establish the changes in these indicators' values before and after the competition. Analysis of the haemogram showed a significant increase in the mean values of 4 of the indicators under study. No significant differences were established in MCV, MCH and MCHC. A decrease was found in the number of Lym, Eos, and Mon and a significant increase in Neu after the competition. The concentration of electrolytes (Ca, Na and K) in the blood serum decreased, and the levels of CK and LDH significantly increased.(AU)

A disciplina de resistência tem a história maiscurta na Bulgária em comparação com outras disciplinas de esportes equestres. As competições de resistência são realizadas em distâncias de 40 km a 160 km. O presente estudo focou no efeito do exercício em cavalos em uma distância de 120 km. Foram investigadas alterações nos seguintes parâmetros hematológicos: Leucócitos (g/l); Eritrócitos (T/l); Plaquetas (g/l); Hemoglobina (g/l); Hematócrito (%); Volume corpuscular médio (VCM, fl); Hemoglobina corpuscular média (HCM, pg); Concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média(CHCM, g/l), Leucograma (Eos; Bas; Neu; Lin; Mon,%), bem como alguns eletrólitos e concentração hormonal. O estudo teve como objetivo estabelecer as mudanças nos valores desses indicadores antes e depois da competição. A análise do hemograma mostrou um aumento significativo nos valores médios de 4 dos indicadores estudados. Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas no VMC, HCM e CHCM. Foi encontrada uma diminuição no número de Lin, Eos e Mon e um aumento significativo em Neu após a competição. A concentração de eletrólitos (Ca, Na e K) no soro sanguíneo diminuiu e os níveis de Creatina Quinase (CK) e Lactato Desidrogenase (LDH) aumentaram significativamente.(AU)

Sheep naturally infected with Anaplasma ovis - evaluation of cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers

Background: Anaplasmosis, also called gall sickness or tropical bovine ehrlichiosis, is an infectious disease caused by species belonging to the genus Anaplasma in domestic and wild animals in tropical and subtropical regions. Anaplasma ovis and A. phagocytophilum are important pathogens of sheep. A. ovis is considered the most common species affecting sheep. The infection is usually subclinical and progresses with high fever, anaemia, icterus, weight loss and abortions. This study aimed to investigate changes in cardiac damage markers, oxidative stress and antioxidant status, cytokines, and acute phase proteins in sheep naturally infected with A. ovis. Materials, Methods & Results: For this purpose, a total of 40 animals, including 20 healthy sheep and 20 sheep infected with anaplasmosis, were used. A. ovis was diagnosed based on clinical findings and peripheral blood smear. Blood smears were prepared from the ear vein. The smears were stained with Giemsa and examined for the presence of Anaplasma spp. Infection was also confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. The genomic DNA was isolated from blood, and the MSP-4 gene region was amplified as A. ovis specific target gene. Twenty clinically healthy sheep of the same age group, reared under the same conditions and testing negative in the molecular assessment were used as controls. Blood samples were collected from the cephalic vein and and centrifuged to obtain serum. The serum stored at -20°C until the analysis stage. Serum samples were used for the analysis of cardiac damage markers [troponin I (cTnI), creatine kinase MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and aspartate transaminase (AST)], oxidative stress parameters [malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant status (TAS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)], cytokines [interleukins IL-6, IL-1ß and IL-10, tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ)] and acute phase proteins [C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA) and haptoglobin (Hp)]. cTnI and CK-MB levels were measured using a chemiluminescent immunoassay. MDA, TAS, SOD, CAT, GPx, TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ, SAA and Hp levels were measured by an ELISA reader. LDH, AST and CRP levels were measured in an autoanalyzer. cTnI and LDH levels were significantly increased in the infected animals compared to the healthy ones (P < 0.05). The concentration of AST was decreased in infected animals. MDA, TAS, SOD, CAT and GPx levels were significantly increased in the infected animals compared to the healthy ones (P < 0.05). The levels of the inflammatory parameters such as TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-10 and IFN-γ were significantly increased in the infected animals compared to the healthy ones (P < 0.05). Hp level were significantly increased in the infected group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant change in CK-MB, SAA and CRP concentrations in the infected animals (P > 0.05). Discussion: Ovine anaplasmosis is an obligate intracellular arthropod disease that causes widespread changes in haematobiochemical, immune response and oxidative stress parameters. Cardiac damage is often overlooked in field conditions due to the lack of adequate knowledge about the pathophysiology of the disease. Our results showed that A. ovis infection leads to significant changes in cardiac biomarkers and that the parasite can cause cardiac dysfunction. This is the first report on cardiac damage markers in Anaplasma-infected sheep. Additionally, the levels of proinflammatory and oxidative stress markers that may cause functional disorders were also found to be increased. Thus, measuring markers of cardiac function, oxidative stress and inflammation can be a useful tool in the early diagnosis of ovine anaplasmosis.

The influence of season, environment, sex, and body mass on biochemical profile of the freshwater turtle Phrynops geoffroanus (Schweigger, 1812) / [Influência da estação, do ambiente, do sexo e da massa corporal no perfil bioquímico do cágado Phrynops geoffroanus (Schweigger, 1812)]

We analyzed the influence of the season, the environment, and the sex, as well as the relation of body mass (BM) in the serum albumin (ALB), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine (C), creatine kinase (CK), phosphorus (P), total calcium (tCa), total protein (TP), urea (U), uric acid (UA), calcium:phosphorus ratio (Ca:P), and the globulin value (GV) of thirty individuals of Phrynops geoffroanus of the urban area of Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil. The modeling of biochemical parameters was performed using the Generalized Additive Models for Location, Scale and Shape (GAMLSS) to verify the influence of variables considered in this study on each of the biochemical parameters analyzed. The season influenced AST, CK, C, tCa, Ca:P and UA. The environment influenced tCa, Ca:P, U and UA. On the other hand, CK, tCa, P, Ca:P and U differed significantly between males and females. Regarding the BM, a relationship of this variable was observed with CK, C, tCa, P, U, UA and Ca:P. We concluded that the season, environment, sex, and body mass can influence the biochemical parameters of P. geoffroanus, and these factors should be routinely considered in the interpretation of laboratory results.

Analisou-se a influência da estação, do ambiente e do sexo, assim como a relação da massa corporal (BM) nos níveis sorológicos de albumina (ALB), aspartato aminotransferase (AST), creatinina (C), creatina quinase (CK), fósforo (P), cálcio total (tCa), sólidos totais (TS), ureia (U), ácido úrico (UA), relação cálcio:fósforo (Ca:P), e do valor da globulina (GV) de Phrynops geoffroanus da área urbana de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brasil. A modelagem dos parâmetros bioquímicos foi realizada utilizando-se os modelos aditivos generalizados para locação, escala e forma (GAMLSS) para verificar a influência das variáveis consideradas neste estudo em cada um dos parâmetros bioquímicos analisados. A estação sazonal influenciou os níveis de AST, CK, C, tCa, Ca:P e UA. O ambiente foi capaz de influenciar tCa, Ca:P, U e UA. Por outro lado, CK, tCa, P, Ca:P e U diferiram significativamente entre machos e fêmeas. Em relação à BM, observou-se relação dessa variável com CK, C, tCa, P, U, UA e Ca:P. Concluiu-se que a estação sazonal, o ambiente, o sexo e a massa corporal são capazes de influenciar os parâmetros bioquímicos de P. geoffroanus e que esses fatores devem ser rotineiramente considerados na interpretação dos resultados laboratoriais.

Replacing 30 % chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer increases the fertilizer efficiency, yield and quality of cabbage in intensive open-field production / Substituindo 30% de fertilizante químico por orgânico aumenta a eficiência, o rendimento e a qualidade do repolho na produção intensiva em campo aberto

The combined application of chemical fertilizer and organic fertilizer is an effective way to improve soil fertility, crop yield and quality. In this study, a field experiment was conducted to evaluate the yield, quality and fertilizer use efficiency of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) grown under different ratios of organic fertilizer replacing chemical fertilizer at a rate of 225 kg N ha-l in 2019 and 2020. The fertilizer treatments included N0 (non nitrogen fertilizer), CK (only compound fertilizer was applied, N:P:K=15.0 %:6.5 %:12.4 %), T1, T2 and T3 (organic fertilizer replaced 15 %, 30 % and 45 % chemical fertilizer, respectively), and T4 (total nutrient input was reduced by 10 % under T2). Results showed that T2 had the highest marketable yield and fertilizer use efficiency, as well as the best quality. The marketable yield, vitamin C content, soluble sugar content, REN (apparent uptake efficiency of fertilizer N) and AEN (agronomic N use efficiency) of T2 increased by 32.2 %, 14,9 %, 5.5 %, 97. % and 55.6 %, respectively, in contrast, the crude fibers decreased by 34.0 %, compared with CK in the two years. In addition, T4 guaranteed the yield and moderately improved the quality of cabbage, compared with CK. Therefore, we can alternatively apply fertilization according to the purpose of capturing the highest yield or properly declining fertilizer to sustain soil texture and productivity.

A aplicação combinada de fertilizante químico e o orgânico é uma forma eficaz de melhorar a fertilidade do solo, o rendimento e a qualidade da colheita. Neste estudo, um experimento de campo foi conduzido para avaliar o rendimento, a qualidade e a eficiência do uso de fertilizantes em repolho (Brassica oleracea var. Capitata L.) cultivado sob diferentes proporções de fertilizante orgânico em substituição ao químico a uma taxa de 225 kg N ha-l em 2019 e 2020. Os tratamentos de fertilizantes incluíram N0 (fertilizante sem nitrogênio), CK (apenas fertilizante composto foi aplicado, N: P: K = 15,0%: 6,5%: 12,4%), T1, T2 e T3 (fertilizante orgânico substituído 15%, 30% e 45% de fertilizante químico, respectivamente) e T4 (a entrada total de nutrientes foi reduzida em 10% em T2). Os resultados mostraram que o T2 apresentou o maior rendimento comercial e eficiência no uso de fertilizantes, bem como a melhor qualidade. O rendimento comercializável, teor de vitamina C, teor de açúcar solúvel, REN (eficiência de absorção aparente de fertilizante N) e AEN (eficiência de uso de N agronômico) de T2 aumentaram 32,2%, 14,9%, 5,5%, 97% e 55,6%, respectivamente, em contraste, as fibras brutas diminuíram 34,0%, em comparação com a CK nos dois anos. Além disso, o T4 garantiu o rendimento e melhorou moderadamente a qualidade do repolho, em comparação com o CK. Portanto, podemos alternativamente aplicar fertilização de acordo com o objetivo de obter o maior rendimento ou fertilizante em declínio adequado para sustentar a textura e a produtividade do solo.

Molecular Investigations of the Effect of Thermal Manipulation During Embryogenesis on the Enzymatic Activity of Creatine Kinase and Lactate Dehydrogenase in Broiler Muscle

Incubating temperature and timing or duration is critical to determine the optimum protocol of thermal manipulation (TM), which underlines muscle growth improvement. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to determine the optimum period of embryonic TM that may result in the improvement of pectoral and thigh muscle myogenesis. This is done by investigating the level of mRNA expression of creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). An additional goal is measuring the blood levels of CK and LDH as a biomarker of muscle injury due to the experimental thermal challenge on post-hatch day 35. The study was conducted on 1,440 fertile eggs (Ross broilers) that were divided randomly and equally into a control group and four treatment groups (TM1, TM2, TM3, and TM4). The treatment groups were daily subjected to TM at 39 ºC for 18h with 65% relative humidity (RH) during embryonic days (EDs) 7-11, 11-15, 15-18, and 7-18, respectively. Among the thermally manipulated groups that were investigated, TM1 (ED 7-11) resulted in significant improvement of mRNA expression and enzymatic concentration of CK and LDH in muscle during embryogenesis, as compared to the control. Six hours of TC showed the highest significant CK and LDH expression and concentration levels in the control as compared to TM groups. Thus, the results of this study indicate that TM during ED 7-11 improves pectoral and thigh muscles response to heat stress without adversely affecting their performance. This finding could be used by commercial breeders to enhance local broiler production.(AU)

Molecular Investigations of the Effect of Thermal Manipulation During Embryogenesis on the Enzymatic Activity of Creatine Kinase and Lactate Dehydrogenase in Broiler Muscle

Incubating temperature and timing or duration is critical to determine the optimum protocol of thermal manipulation (TM), which underlines muscle growth improvement. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to determine the optimum period of embryonic TM that may result in the improvement of pectoral and thigh muscle myogenesis. This is done by investigating the level of mRNA expression of creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). An additional goal is measuring the blood levels of CK and LDH as a biomarker of muscle injury due to the experimental thermal challenge on post-hatch day 35. The study was conducted on 1,440 fertile eggs (Ross broilers) that were divided randomly and equally into a control group and four treatment groups (TM1, TM2, TM3, and TM4). The treatment groups were daily subjected to TM at 39 ºC for 18h with 65% relative humidity (RH) during embryonic days (EDs) 7-11, 11-15, 15-18, and 7-18, respectively. Among the thermally manipulated groups that were investigated, TM1 (ED 7-11) resulted in significant improvement of mRNA expression and enzymatic concentration of CK and LDH in muscle during embryogenesis, as compared to the control. Six hours of TC showed the highest significant CK and LDH expression and concentration levels in the control as compared to TM groups. Thus, the results of this study indicate that TM during ED 7-11 improves pectoral and thigh muscles’ response to heat stress without adversely affecting their performance. This finding could be used by commercial breeders to enhance local broiler production.

Electrocardiographic, echocardiographic and heart biomarker parameters in sheep experimentally poisoned by Palicourea marcgravii (Rubiaceae) / Parâmetros eletrocardiográficos, ecocardiográficos e de biomarcadores cardíacos em ovinos intoxicados experimentalmente por Palicourea marcgravii (Rubiaceae)

The present study aimed to identify and describe cardiac alterations in sheep experimentally poisoned with Palicourea marcgravii through analysis of serum cardiac biomarkers (serum troponin I and creatine kinase - CK-MB) and electro and echocardiographic assessments to contribute to a better understanding of the poisoning pathophysiology. P. marcgravii is the main plant within a group of 22 species that cause sudden death in Brazil; its toxic principle is sodium monofluoroacetate. Eight healthy crossbreed male sheep, aged between five and twelve months, weighing 14 to 27kg, were evaluated. The animals received 1g kg-1 of P. marcgravii plants orally. The sheep were evaluated before administering the plant (T0) through electro and echocardiography and blood collection to assess cardiac biomarkers (CK-MB and cTnI). Collections and analyses were repeated every four hours until the animal's death. During the study, there was the presence of extravasation of serum troponin I carried out in a qualitative test, with positive values at time T4, and the serum CK-MB biomarker had a peak at T4 and slightly decreased at T8. The electro and echocardiographic examinations showed that the cause of death in these animals was due to acute heart failure characterized by arrhythmias, tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation, drop in cardiac output, left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction by the progressive decrease in the LV ejection fraction (EF), decrease in LV fractional shortening (FS), and decrease in aortic flow velocity and aortic flow gradient. This study seems to be the first to evaluate cardiac alterations in sheep poisoned by P. marcgravii through cardiac biomarkers and electro and echocardiographic exams.

O presente estudo objetivou identificar e descrever as alterações cardíacas de ovinos intoxicados experimentalmente por Palicourea marcgravii através das análises de biomarcadores cardíacos séricos (troponina I sérica e a creatinoquinase - MB) e das avaliações eletro e ecocardiográficas contribuindo para o melhor entendimento da fisiopatologia da intoxicação. Palicourea marcgravii é a principal planta dentro de um grupo de 22 espécies que causam "morte súbita" no Brasil e seu princípio tóxico é o monofluoracetato de sódio. Foram utilizados oito ovinos saudáveis machos, sem raça definida, com idades entre cinco e doze meses e peso de 14 a 27kg. Os animais receberam 1g/kg de Palicourea marcgravii por via oral. Os ovinos foram avaliados momentos antes da administração da planta (T0) através de eletro e ecocardiograma e coleta de sangue para avaliação dos biomarcadores cardíacos (CK-MB e cTnI). As análises e coletas foram repetidas a cada quatro horas até o óbito do animal. Durante o estudo observou-se extravasamento de troponina I sérica realizada em teste qualitativo, com valores positivos já em T4, assim como o biomarcador CK-MB sérico teve seu pico de aumento em T4 e em T8 houve uma leve redução. Aos exames eletro e ecocardiográfico foi possível determinar que a causa do óbito nestes animais ocorreu devido à insuficiência cardíaca aguda caracterizada por arritmias, taquicardia/fibrilação ventricular, queda no débito cardíaco, disfunção sistólica do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) pela diminuição progressiva da fração de ejeção (EF) do VE, diminuição na fração de encurtamento (FS) do VE, diminuição da velocidade do fluxo aórtico e do gradiente do fluxo aórtico. Este é o primeiro estudo que avalia as alterações cardiológicas de ovinos intoxicados por P. marcgravii através de biomarcadores cardíacos e exames eletro e ecocardiográficos.

Kukoamine A activates Akt/GSK-3ß signaling pathway to inhibit oxidative stress and relieve myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury

Purpose: Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury refers to a pathological condition of treatment of myocardial infarction. Oxidative stress and inflammation are believed to be important mechanisms mediating MI/R injury. Kukoamine A (KuA), a sperm, is the main bioactive component extracted from the bark of goji berries. In this study, we wanted to investigate the possible effects of KuA on MI/R injury. Methods: In this experiment, all rats were divided into sham operation group, MI/R group, KuA 10 mg + MI/R group, KuA 20 mg + MI/R group. After 120 min of ischemia/reperfusion treatment, left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), maximal rates of rising and fall of left ventricular pressure (±dp/dtmax), and ischemic area were detected. Serum samples of rats in each group were collected. The enzyme activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), CK muscle/brain (CK-MB), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The apoptosis of myocardium in each group was detected according to the instructions of the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. The expressions of mammalian target of glycogen synthase kinase-3ß (GSH-3ß) and protein kinase B (Akt) mRNA level in myocardial tissues were detected via reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: MI/R rats showed a significant increase in oxidative stress and inflammation. In addition, we showed that KuA significantly improved the myocardial function such as LVSP, left ventricular ejection fraction, +dp/dt, and -dp/dt. Here, it attenuated dose-dependent histological damage in ischemia-reperfused myocardium, which is associated with the enzyme activities of SOD, GSH-PX, and levels of MDA, IL-6, TNF-α, L-1ß. Conclusions: KuA inhibited gene expression of Akt/GSK-3ß, inflammation, oxidative stress and improved MR/I injury. Taken together, our results allowed us to better understand the pharmacological activity of KuA against MR/I injury.

Effect of one-time high load exercise on skeletal muscle injury in rats of different genders: oxidative stress and mitochondrial responses

Purpose: To evaluate the impact of one-time high load exercise on skeletal muscle injury and analysis its mechanism in different genders. Methods: Twenty-four male and 24 female rats were divided randomly into four groups respectively: control, 0 h, 6 h, and 24 h after exercise. The activities of creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and myohemoglobin (MYO) in serum, the expression level of oxidative stress markers, mitochondrial respiratory chain complex enzyme, and the apoptosis related protein in quadriceps were detected. Results: The results showed that the activities of CK, LDH and MYO in serum increased immediately after exercise and restored faster in female rats. More obvious structural disorder and apoptosis in male rats were showed. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were increased while catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) were decreased in male rats. SOD, CAT and GSH were increased in female rats. Mitochondrial complex enzyme activity was decreased in males and increased in females. Conclusions: The skeletal muscle injury in both genders of rat could be induced by one-time high load exercise due to the mitochondrial respiratory enzyme dysfunction and oxidative stress, which was relatively mild and recovered quicker in female rats.

Colonic papillary adenocarcinoma in a crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous): Anatomopathological and immunohistochemical features

A captive 17-year-old male crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) presenting clinical signs of hyporexia and constipation for two weeks was found dead. On autopsy, a large and firm mass expanding the large intestine wall and totally obstructing the colon lumen was identified. Histopathology revealed a non-encapsulated poorly demarcated adenocarcinoma composed of cuboidal to pseudostratified columnar epithelium forming papillary projections of variable sizes. The cytoplasm of the neoplastic cells was immunopositive for CK7 and PAN-CK, but negative for VIM and CK20. Immunohistochemistry revealed an immunophenotype different from the enteric adenocarcinomas reported in humans and domestic dogs. This is the first case report of colonic papillary adenocarcinoma in a crab-eating fox.(AU)

Polymyositis associated with brainstem signs in a dog

Background: Polymyositis is a generalized inflammatory myopathy which can lead to rhabdomyolysis. This affection may have several origins, including degenerative, metabolic, autoimmune, infectious, inflammatory, ischemic, traumatic, by drug use, induced by toxins and also of idiopathic origin. Diagnosis is made with seric dosage, electrodiagnostic tests and muscle biopsy. Lesions in the rostral oblong medulla may affect the central vestibular system, and there may be signs such as opisthotonos, nystagmus, and strabismus. The aim of this report is to describe a case of a mixed breed dog with manifestation of polymyositis associated with brainstem signs of probable idiopathic origin. Case: A 5-year-old mixed breed male dog was attended with opisthotonos episodes for 2 days, and pelvic limbs extension and thoracic limbs flexion that lasted 10 to 20 min at intervals of approximately 1 h. The animal was anorexic and had also presented one episode of emesis. Upon neurological examination, ventromedial strabismus and Horner's syndrome was observed on the right side, besides vertical nystagmus, flaccid tetraparesis and absence of proprioception in the four limbs. Biochemical analyses revealed creatine kinase (CK) increased (2,433.9 UI/L - reference: 1.5-28.4 UI/L), and urinalysis showed dark color and presence of occult blood without, however, erythrocyturia. Electrocardiogram (ECG) showed QS wave and deviation of the electrical axis. Treatment with prednisolone (1 mg/kg, BID), phenobarbital (2 mg/kg, BID), maropitant citrate (1 mg/kg in 2 doses), and crystalloid fluid therapy (50 mL/kg/day) were prescribed. On the 4th day, the dog was more active and feeding without a tube, so it recommended keep the treatment at home. On the 10th day, the animal had proprioception present on the 4 limbs and normorexia. Biochemical analyses and urinalysis showed no alterations, but normochromic normochromic anemia with thrombocytopenia and leukocytosis by neutrophilia showed in blood count exam. PCR to Ehrlichia canis, Hepatozoon sp., and Babesia canis resulted negative. On the 15th day, blood count, biochemical analyses and urinalysis showed no alterations. Neurological examination revealed only positional vertical nystagmus. which remained as a sequel. Discussion: Polymyositis may be accompanied by rhabdomyolysis, characterized by acute muscle necrosis, increased CK and myoglobinuria. The animal had polymyositis of acute onset, with myoglobinuria and elevated CK values, whose presentation included myalgia and muscle weakness. In humans, polymyositis is accompanied by changes in electrocardiographic tracing without clinical alterations. In dogs, the first report that showed cardiac involvement was compatible with myocarditis. The changes in ECG in the present case was attributed to failure in myocardial electrical conduction. The patient also showed signs of brainstem and central vestibular system injuries. Stress myopathy, intoxication, snakebite, infectious, and metabolic diseases were discarded leading to a clinical suspicion as idiopathic origin. Similar to a published case, the patient of this report received symptomatic and supportive treatment, being discharged from the hospital 20 days after the onset of clinical signs. Thus, polymyositis may be accompanied by signs indicative of brainstem injury. Patients with rhabdomyolysis require intense monitoring due to the high risk of developing acute renal failure. Since no causative agent was identified, symptomatic treatment combined with the prevention of possible complications were fundamental for the maintenance of the animal's life.

Stress indicators in cattle submitted to different pre-slaughter rest times / Indicadores de estresse em bovinos submetidos a diferentes tempos de descanso no pré-abate

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of pre-slaughter time about some blood constituents used as stress indicators in the evaluation of animal welfare in cattle. In the practice of ethology, animal welfare is assessed through physiological and behavioral indicators. For the determination of serum biomarkers of animal stress, a total of 180 animals was used, divided into two major groups according to the time of pre-slaughter. In the acceptable group, the animals had a pre-slaughter time up to 24 hours and in the not acceptable group the pre-slaughter time was greater than 24 h. These two groups were split up into three animal categories (males, females and castrated males). In this study, 30 samples were collected from each animal category of the two groups, acceptable and not acceptable, totaling 180 samples. Samples were separated for analysis of muscle enzymes creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase (CK and LDH), glucose and cortisol. Physiological values, regardless of the animal category and pre-slaughter time, were higher than the normal values of reference, expressing the prior management effect on animal welfare. The data clearly show a need to update and adapt the entire production chain to animal welfare practices, with the objective of producing competitive quality meat in the world market.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito do tempo de pré-abate sobre alguns constituintes sanguíneos utilizados como indicadores de estresse na avaliação do bem-estar animal em bovinos. Na prática da etologia, o bem-estar animal é avaliado por meio de indicadores fisiológicos e comportamentais. Para a determinação sérica de biomarcadores de estresse animal utilizaram-se 180 animais, divididos em dois grupos de acordo com o tempo de pré-abate: até 24 horas ou acima de 24 horas. Esses dois grupos subdividiram-se em três categorias animais (machos não-castrados, machos castrados ou fêmeas). Foram coletadas 30 amostras de cada categoria animal nos dois grupos, totalizando 180 amostras. Foram separadas amostras para análise de enzimas musculares creatina quinase e lactato desidrogenase (CK e LDH), glicose e cortisol. Os valores fisiológicos, independentemente da categoria animal e do tempo de pré-abate, foram superiores aos valores de referência, expressando o efeito do manejo prévio sobre o bem-estar dos animais. Os dados evidenciam claramente a necessidade de atualização e adequação de toda a cadeia produtiva às práticas de bem-estar animal, com o objetivo de produzir carne de qualidade competitiva no mercado mundial.(AU)

Biliary cystadenoma in a lion (Panthera leo)

Animals in human care often exceed the life expectancy of animals in the wild when they have veterinarian follow-ups, no competition for space or food, and continuous care. Advanced age favors the development of mutations that often trigger cancer, which sometimes causes death. There are reports in the literature on neoplasms in lions in the liver, which are one of the main organs affected. A 20-year-old lion specimen was received for necropsy at the Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil. Multiple cystic dilations were observed in the liver. Histologically, they were internally covered by a simple cuboidal epithelium, similar to that observed in the bile ducts, without cellular atypia. The adjacent liver parenchyma presented with mild disorganization of the hepatocyte cords. Biliary cystadenomas are benign growths formed by a thin opaque capsule filled with a slightly yellowish translucent fluid compressing the adjacent liver parenchyma, as highlighted in this case. The epithelium of the cysts was positive for anti-cytokeratin (CK) (EIA/A3E) and anti-CK7, confirming histogenesis in the bile ducts. This study reports a case of biliary cystadenoma in a Panthera leo specimen.(AU)

Cardioprotective action of aprepitant in a rat model of ischemia-reperfusioninduced myocardial injury: role of PI3K-AkT-GSK-3ß-HIF-1α signaling pathway

Purpose: The present study explored the role and mechanism involved in aprepitant-induced cardioprotective effects in rat model of ischemia-reperfusion injury. Methods: The isolated hearts of Wistar male albino rats were subjected to ischemia-reperfusion injury on Langendorff apparatus. The extent of myocardial injury was assessed by measuring lactate dehydrogenase 1 and CK-MB release in the coronary effluent. The rats were treated with aprepitant (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) before isolating hearts. After injury, the levels of HIF-1α, p-AkT, p-GSK-3ß/GSK-3ß were measured in heart homogenates. LY294002 was employed as PI3K inhibitor. Results: Ischemia-reperfusion led to significant myocardial injury and decreased the levels of HIF-1α, p-AkT and ratio of p-GSK-3ß/GSK-3ß. Aprepitant attenuated myocardial injury and restored the biochemical changes in a dose-dependent manner. Pre-treatment with LY294002 (10 and 20 mg/kg) abolished aprepitant-mediated cardioprotective effects and restored the biochemical parameters in the heart homogenate. Conclusions: Aprepitant may be effective in preventing ischemia-reperfusion-induced myocardial injury, which may be due to activation of PI3K-AkT-GSK-3ß and HIF-1α signaling pathway.

Effect of Heat Stress on Expression of Main Reproductive Hormone in Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis of Wenchang Chicks

ABSTRACT The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is a key neuroen-docrine regulation system involved in the growth and reproduction of poultry. High-temperature conditions lead to the physiological dysfunction of target organs of the HPG axis of poultry, ultimately affecting the animals growth and development. In this study, we evaluated the effect of heat stress (HS) on the development of cells secreting major reproductive hormones of the HPG axis (i.e., hypothalamus, pituitary gland, ovary, and testis) of Wenchang chicks. Seventy-two one-day-old healthy Wenchang chicks were randomly divided into control (CK) and HS groups. The HS group was placed in a 40 ± 0.5°C artificial climate chamber for heat-stress treatment from 13:00 to 15:00 daily for six consecutive weeks. As development progressed, compared with the CK group, the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in the hypothalamus and testosterone (T) levers in the testes of male chicks in the HS group were significantly decreased at three weeks of age (p 0.05). However, GnRH levels in the hypothalamus and estradiol (E2) levels in the ovaries of female chicks in the HS group were variable and significantly lower than those of the CK group at four and five weeks of age (p 0.05). In addition, the LH and FSH levels in the pituitary gland were significantly lower than those in the CK group at two and four weeks of age and at four and six weeks of age, respectively (p 0.05). In brief, HS caused dysfunction of the corresponding target organs of the HPG axis in Wenchang chicks, and this affected the normal growth and development of the cells HPG axis.

Protective effects of ischemic postconditioning on skeletal muscle following crush syndrome in the rat

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate the effect of ischemic postconditioning (IPostC) on skeletal muscle and its optimal protocol. Methods This article is about an animal study of rat model of crush syndrome. Sixty rats were randomized into nine different IPostC intervention groups and a control group. The anesthetized rats were subjected to unilateral hindlimb 3-kg compression with a compression device for 6 h, followed by nine different IPostC intervention protocols. Results Serum levels of creatine kinase (CK) at 3 h post-crush became 2.3-3.9 times among all 10 groups after crush. At 72 h post-crush, serum CK level was reduced to 0.28-0.53 time in all intervention groups. The creatinine (CREA) level in the control group was elevated to 3.11 times at 3 h post-crush and reduced to1.77 time at 72 h post-crush. The potassium (K+) level in the control group was elevated to 1.65 and 1.41 time at 3 and 72 h post-crush, respectively. Conclusions Our IPostC intervention protocols can effectively protect rats from crush-induced elevation of serum CK, CREA, and K+ levels. The timing of IPostC intervention should be as early as possible, to ensure the protective effect.

Clinical and laboratory findings in sheep experimentally poisoned by Palicourea marcgravii and the use of magnesium chloride with possible therapeutic effect on poisoning

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to examine the efficacy of magnesium chloride therapy in sheep experimentally poisoned by Palicourea marcgravii and describe the clinical and laboratory findings that may aid in early ante mortem diagnosis of this poisoning. P. marcgravii is an important plant within a group of 22 species in Brazil that cause sudden death. Its toxic component is sodium monofluoroacetate. It was observed that a time for evolution of poisoning was longer in our study compared to other studies that used the same dose of P. marcgravii in sheep. However, all animals that were poisoned and subsequently treated with magnesium chloride died. The sheep presented characteristic clinical signs before death in addition to other signs that have not been previously described for this type of poisoning, such as abdominal breathing, coughing, head pressing, and nystagmus. This is the first evaluation of hematological parameters of sheep poisoned by P. marcgravii. Leukocytosis with neutrophilia, hyperfibrinogenemia, and hyperglycemia, associated with hypophosphatemia and elevated levels of serum aspartato aminotransferase (AST), glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH), urea, creatinine, creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), were observed. Additionally, changes were noted in necropsy, such as engorged jugular, large vessel congestion, pulmonary edema. Histological examination revealed vacuolar hydropic degeneration in the distal twisted uriniferous tubules in the kidneys, similar to those reported in previous studies on P. marcgravii poisoning.

RESUMO: O presente estudo objetivou verificar a eficácia terapêutica do cloreto de magnésio em ovinos intoxicados experimentalmente por Palicourea marcgravii e descrever os achados clínicos e laboratoriais que possam auxiliar no diagnóstico precoce ante mortem dessa intoxicação. P. marcgravii é a principal planta dentro de um grupo de 22 espécies que causam morte súbita no Brasil e seu princípio tóxico é o monofluoracetato de sódio. Durante o procedimento, observou-se maior tempo de evolução em relação a outros trabalhos utilizando-se a mesma dose da P. marcgravii em ovinos, entretanto todos os animais intoxicados e posteriormente tratados com cloreto de magnésio vieram a óbito. Os ovinos apresentaram sinais clínicos característicos antes da morte, associados a sinais nunca antes descritos nesse tipo de intoxicação, como respiração abdominal, tosse, head pressing e nistagmo. Trata-se da primeira avaliação dos parâmetros hematológicos de ovinos intoxicados por P. marcgravi. Foi observado leucocitose com neutrofilia, hiperfibrinogemia e hiperglicemia, associado a elevação dos valores séricos de AST, GLDH, ureia, creatinina, CK, LDH e hipofosfatemia. À necropsia foram notadas alterações como jugular ingurgitada, congestão de grandes vasos, edema pulmonar. Histologicamente havia degeneração hidrópica vacuolar nos túbulos uriníferos contorcidos distais no rim, semelhantes às já relatadas em estudos anteriores, na intoxicação por P. marcgravii.

Systemic changes caused by artificial insemination in beef cows (Bos indicus) and their impact on animal welfare / Alterações sistêmicas causadas pela inseminação artificial em vacas de corte (Bos indicus) e seu impacto no bem-estar animal

This study aimed to verify if the process of artificial insemination (AI) characterized here as animal immobilization, the passage of the semen applicator through the cervix, and deposition of the semen in the uterus, affected cows' welfare. For this, 18 beef calved cows were selected and divided into two groups: inseminated cows (AIG, n = 9), and not inseminated cows, the control group (CG, n = 9). Body condition score, uterus, and ovary evaluation were performed. Later, both groups were submitted into an estrus synchronization protocol and only the AIG group was inseminated. Blood components of urea, creatinine, AST, GGT, CK, glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL, NEFA, BHB, cortisol, estradiol, progesterone, albumin, and total protein were measured 30 h before AI, and 4, 24, 48 and 168 h after AI. Statistical differences were considered when P <0.05. No differences between AIG and CG were observed. On the other hand, when the moment of insemination was evaluated, differences were observed for urea, creatinine, AST, GGT, CK, glucose, triglycerides, NEFA, BHB, albumin, and total protein. There was an oscillation of metabolic profiles depending on the time and procedures to which animals were exposed, even though it could be inferred that the AI process was incapable of altering those metabolic components on animals that were inseminated. Still, we can affirm that artificial insemination cannot be categorized as a negative reproduction tool on animal welfare. However, the containment and management procedures for AI may alter the metabolic profile of cows, especially the increase of CK.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se o processo de inseminação artificial (IA) caracterizado como imobilização do animal, passagem do aplicador de sêmen pelo colo do útero e deposição do sêmen no útero, afetou o bem-estar de bovinos. Para tanto, foram selecionadas 18 vacas de corte paridas, divididas em dois grupos: grupo de animais inseminados (AIG, n = 9) e grupo de animais não inseminados, grupo controle (GC, n = 9). Foram avaliados o escore de condição corporal, útero e ovário. Posteriormente, ambos os grupos foram submetidos a um protocolo de sincronização de cio e apenas o grupo AIG foi inseminado. Componentes metabólicos como ureia, creatinina, AST, GGT, CK, glicose, triglicerídeos, colesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL, NEFA, BHB, cortisol, estradiol, progesterona, albumina e proteína total foram mensurados 30 horas antes da IA e 4, 24, 48 e 168 horas após a IA. Diferenças estatísticas foram consideradas quando P <0,05. Não foram observadas diferenças entre os dois grupos, por outro lado, quando o momento da inseminação foi avaliado, diferenças foram observadas para ureia, creatinina, AST, GGT, CK, glicose, triglicerídeos, NEFA, BHB, albumina e proteína total. Houve uma variação dos perfis metabólicos em função do tempo e dos procedimentos que os animais foram submetidos, embora pode-se inferir que o processo de IA não foi capaz de alterar esses componentes metabólicos os animais inseminados. Ainda assim, observou-se que o processo de IA não foi categorizado como uma ferramenta negativa de reprodução com relação ao bem-estar animal. Porém, ainda assim, os procedimentos de contenção e manejo da IA podem alterar o perfil metabólico das vacas, principalmente o aumento da CK.(AU)