Cooling of porcine semen in an extender supplemented with isoespintanol / Resfriamento de sêmen suíno em um diluente suplementado com isoespintanol

ABSTRACT: Spermatozoa experience oxidative, osmotic, chemical, and thermal stresses when cooled, which degrade the quality and fertilizing capacity of the cells. Adding antioxidants to the sperm extender mitigates these alterations. This study evaluated the effect of isoespintanol (ISO) on boar semen subjected to cooling. Fifteen ejaculates from five boars (Susscrofadomestica) were extended in Beltsville thawing solution (BTS) supplemented with 0 µM (control), 5 µM (ISO5), 10 µM (ISO10), 15 µM (ISO15), 20 µM (ISO20), 25 µM (ISO25), and 30 µM (ISO30) of ISO, which were then cooled for five days at 16 °C. Sperm kinetics, total motility (TM), and progressive motility (PM) were evaluated every 24 h using an IVOS computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) system. On day 1 and day 5 of cooling, a hypoosmotic test, spectrofluorometry, and flow cytometry were performed to evaluate the following: membrane functionality, measured as a function of hypoosmotic swelling (HOS); total antioxidant capacity (TAC); reactive oxygen species (ROS); and mitochondrial membrane potential (Δ¥M). Regression analysis and comparison of means using the Duncan test were performed. The ISO added had a slight impact on sperm motility, as evidenced by a reduction in TM at 24 h of cooling (but not prior) with the addition of 20 µM of ISO. Similarly, no effect of the ISO on the kinetics and functional integrity of the sperm membrane was observed at 96 h of cooling; however, the regression coefficients indicated that the ISO lowered the rate of decrease in sperm motility and the proportion of rapid spermatozoa relative to the concentration of ISO used. The ISO did not affect the TAC of the cooled semen; however, different concentrations of ISO lowered ROS production in the semen after 96 h of cooling. ISO also impacted the Δ¥M of the spermatozoa at 0 h of cooling, increasing the proportion of low Δ¥M cells and decreasing the proportion of high Δ¥M cells. In conclusion, ISO can reduce the loss of quality and oxidative stress occurring in boar semen during cooling and can modulate the mitochondrial activity of sperm.

RESUMO: Durante a refrigeração, os espermatozoides sofrem estresse oxidativo, osmótico, químico e térmico, que diminuem sua qualidade e afetam sua capacidade de fertilização. A adição de antioxidantes ao diluente espermático é uma alternativa para mitigar essas alterações. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar o efeito do isospintanol (ISO) na refrigeração do sêmen suíno. Quinze ejaculados de cinco varrascos (Sus scrofa domestica) foram diluídos em BTS suplementado com ISO a 0 (controle), 5 (ISO5), 10 (ISO10), 15 (ISO15), 20 (ISO20), 25 (ISO25) e 30 (ISO30) µM e foram refrigerados por cinco dias a 16 °C. A motilidade total (MT), motilidade progressiva (MP) e cinética dos espermatozóides foram avaliadas a cada 24 h com um sistema CASA IVOS. Nos dias um e cinco de refrigeração, foram avaliadas a funcionalidade da membrana, a capacidade antioxidante total (CAT), as espécies reativas de oxigênio (ROS) e o potencial de membrana mitocondrial (Δ¥M), através do teste hiposmótico (HOS), espectrofluorimetría e citometria de fluxo. Foram realizadas análises de regressão e comparação de médias, pelo teste de Duncan. A adição de ISO teve pouca influência na motilidade espermática, apresentando apenas redução na MT em 24 h de refrigeração, devido à adição de 20 µM. Da mesma forma, não foi observada influência de ISO na cinética e integridade funcional da membrana em 96 horas de refrigeração; porém, os coeficientes de regressão mostraram que ISO produziu menor taxa de diminuição da motilidade e proporção de espermatozoides rápidos dependendo da concentração utilizada. ISO não influenciou significativamente na CAT do sêmen refrigerado; entretanto, diferentes concentrações de ISO reduziram a produção de EROs a partir do sêmen após de 96 h de refrigeração. ISO também influenciou o Δ¥M dos espermatozóides em 0 h de refrigeração, com aumento das células de baixo Δ¥M e diminuição das células de alto Δ¥M. Em conclusão, o isospintanol pode reduzir a perda da qualidade e o estresse oxidativo do sêmen suíno durante a refrigeração e pode modular a atividade mitocondrial do esperma.

Dimethyl acetamide and dimethyl sulfoxide associated at glucose and egg yolk for cryopreservation of Pseudoplatystoma corruscans semen

This study aimed to develop a protocol for the cryopreservation of Pseudoplatystoma corruscans semen. For this, mature males were hormonally induced with a single dose of carp pituitary extract (5 mg/kg body weight). Semen was collected and evaluated. Two cryoprotectants were tested to compose the diluents: dimethyl acetamide (DMA) and dimethyl sulfoxide (Me2SO), in two concentrations (8% and 10%), + 5.0% glucose + 10% egg yolk. The semen was diluted in a 1: 4 ratio (semen: extender), packed in 0.5 mL straws and frozen in a dry shipper container in liquid nitrogen vapors. After thawing, sperm kinetics, sperm morphology and DNA integrity of cryopreserved sperm were evaluated. Pseudoplatystoma corruscans males produced semen with sperm motility > 80%. After thawing, all treatments provided semen with total sperm motility > 40%, with no significant difference (P < 0.05) between them, as well as between the other sperm kinetic parameters evaluated. The treatments with DMA provided a smaller fragmentation of the DNA of the gametes. Sperm malformations were identified in both fresh and cryopreserved semen, with a slight increase in these malformations being identified in sperm from thawed P. corruscans semen samples.(AU)

Este estudo teve como objetivo desenvolver um protocolo para a criopreservação do sêmen de Pseudoplatystoma corruscans. Para tal, machos maduros foram induzidos hormonalmente com uma dose única de extrato de hipófise de carpa (5 mg/kg de peso vivo). O sêmen foi coletado e avaliado. Sendo testados para compor os diluentes, dois crioprotetores: dimetil acetamida (DMA) e dimetil sulfóxido (Me2SO), em duas concentrações (8% e 10%), + 5,0% glicose + 10% gema de ovo. O sêmen foi diluído na proporção 1: 4 (sêmen: extensor), embalado em palhetas de 0,5 mL e congelado em container dryshipper em vapores de nitrogênio líquido. Após o descongelamento, foram avaliados os aspectos cinéticos espermáticos, a morfologia espermática e a integridade do DNA dos espermatozoides criopreservados. Os machos de P. corruscans produziram sêmen com motilidade espermática > 80%. Todos os tratamentos proporcionaram após o descongelamento sêmen com motilidade espermática total > 40%, sem diferença significativa (P < 0,05) entre eles, como também entre os demais parâmetros cinéticos espermáticos avaliados. Os tratamentos com DMA proporcionaram uma menor fragmentação do DNA dos gametas. Malformações espermáticas foram identificadas, tanto no sêmen fresco, como no criopreservado, sendo identificado um aumento discreto dessas malformações nos espermatozoides das amostras de sêmen descongeladas de P. corruscans.(AU)

Coriandrum sativum L. essential oil obtained from organic culture shows antifungal activity against planktonic and multibiofilm Candida / Óleo essencial de Coriandrum sativum L. obtido de cultura orgânica apresenta atividade antifúngica contra Candida planctônica e multibiofilme

This study aimed to analyze the phytochemical profile of essential oil obtained from the leaves of Coriandrum sativum L., and its antifungal activity against Candida spp. The research consisted of an in vitro study including collecting the vegetable product, analysis of its macronutrients, extraction, and chemical analysis of the essential oil, and assaying antifungal activity through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC), with growth inhibition kinetics, and the product's effects on multi-species Candida biofilm. Nitrogen (47.08 g Kg-1), phosphorus (5.3 g Kg-1) and potassium (50.46 g Kg-1) levels were within the normal range. The major constituents were octanal, decanal, dec-(2E)-enal, and dodecanal. The MIC and MFC of the product evaluated against 11 tested Candida strains ranged from 31.25 to 250 µg/mL. There was inhibition of fungal growth during 24 hours of exposure at the 3 concentrations tested (250, 125, and 62.5 µg/mL). The concentration of 80 mg/mL promoted the greatest reduction in multispecies biofilm (70% reduction in biofilm). Coriandrum sativum L. essential oil extract is principally constituted of alcohols and aldehydes and presents fungicidal activity against Candida spp. in its in planktonic and biofilm forms.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo analisar o perfil fitoquímico do óleo essencial obtido das folhas de Coriandrum sativum L., e sua atividade antifúngica contra Candida spp. A pesquisa consistiu em um estudo in vitro incluindo a coleta do produto vegetal, análise de seus macronutrientes, extração e análise química do óleo essencial e ensaio da atividade antifúngica por meio da concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) e concentração fungicida mínima (MFC), com crescimento cinética de inibição e os efeitos do produto no biofilme de Candida multi-espécies. Os níveis de nitrogênio (47,08 g Kg-1), fósforo (5,3 g Kg-1) e potássio (50,46 g Kg-1) estavam dentro da normalidade. Os principais constituintes foram octanal, decanal, dec-(2E)-enal e dodecanal. A CIM e CFM do produto avaliado contra 11 cepas de Candida testadas variaram de 31,25 a 250 µg/mL. Houve inibição do crescimento fúngico durante 24 horas de exposição nas 3 concentrações testadas (250, 125 e 62,5 µg/mL). A concentração de 80 mg/mL promoveu a maior redução no biofilme multiespécies (redução de 70% no biofilme). O extrato do óleo essencial de Coriandrum sativum L. é constituído principalmente por álcoois e aldeídos e apresenta atividade fungicida contra Candida spp. em suas formas planctônicas e biofilme.

Determination of thiamethoxam residues and dissipation kinetic in tomato plants and its efficacy against Bemisia tabaci under open field eco system / Determinação de resíduos de tiametoxam e cinética de dissipação em plantas de tomate e sua eficácia contra Bemisia tabaci em ecossistema de campo aberto

Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci cause important losses for many crops especially tomato, therefore farmers often use many chemical insecticides which had dangerous side effects on human beings and environment, thus there are need to determine the residues of these chemicals in plant . The dissipation of thiamethoxam in tomato leaves and fruits followed the first order kinetics; Half-lives were 2.91 and 3.15 days for fruits and leaves, respectively. The residues of thiamethoxam were determined using a QuEChERS method with HPLC-DAD and it was 0.14 mg/ kg in fruits after 7 days of treatment and less than the maximum residue limit (MRL 0.2 mg/kg. The residue in leaves was more than in fruits. Seedlings produced from treated seeds were more resistant to different stages of the whitefly population and protect tomato plants from whitefly infestation for 6-10 weeks after transplanting. The three sprays of thiamethoxam increased the reduction percentage of B. tabaci stages and the highest increase was recorded after the third spray in egg, nymph, and adult stages. It could be recommend that Thiamethoxam is considered an unconventional insecticide appropriate for B. tabaci control and safe for humans and the environment.

Bemisia tabaci, também conhecida como "Mosca-branca" causam perdas importantes para muitas culturas, especialmente tomate, por isso, os agricultores costumam usar muitos inseticidas químicos que têm efeitos colaterais prejudiciais aos seres humanos e ao meio ambiente. Nesse sentido, observa-se a necessidade de determinar os resíduos desses produtos químicos na planta. A dissipação do tiametoxam nas folhas e frutos do tomateiro seguiu a cinética de primeira ordem: As meias-vidas foram de 2,91 e 3,15 dias para frutos e folhas, respectivamente. Os resíduos de tiametoxam foram determinados pelo método QuEChERS com HPLC-DAD e foi de 0,14 mg/kg nos frutos após 7 dias de tratamento e inferior ao limite máximo de resíduos (LMR 0,2 mg/kg). O resíduo nas folhas foi maior do que nas frutos. Mudas produzidas a partir de sementes tratadas mostraram-se mais resistentes a diferentes estágios da população de mosca-branca e protegeram os tomateiros da infestação por mosca-branca por 6-10 semanas após o transplante. As 3 pulverizações de tiametoxam aumentaram a porcentagem de redução dos estágios de B. tabaci e o maior aumento foi registrado após a terceira pulverização nos estágios de ovo, ninfa e adulto, assim, é possível considerar o tiametoxam como um inseticida não convencional apropriado para o controle de B. tabaci e seguro para humanos e meio ambiente.

Production and characterization of a new mango distilled beverage

ABSTRACT The large scale of mango production allows for the application of immediate technologies to minimize post-harvest losses and add even more value to the fruit chain. As a consequence of feasible applications, the production of alcoholic beverages through fermentation and distillation has been elaborated, resulting in a supply of products with different characteristics. This study aimed to monitor the development of a distilled mango beverage and its profile for consumption. The mangoes were selected, pulped and subjected to physicochemical characterization and, subsequently, to fermentation and distillation processes where the kinetics were monitored, and the beverage obtained was compared to similar products found in the literature. During column distillation, the relationship between the temperature profile and the alcohol content was observed, allowing for careful selection of each fraction of the distillate and the establishment of a standard for future distillations. As regards the fraction of interest, good results were obtained in terms of composition with compounds such as methanol and acetaldehyde in minimal quantities, indicating a product that can be consumed without health risks. The small amount of studies following the same line of research confirms the potential mango pulp named Tommy Atkins for the formulation of alcoholic products.

Production and characterization of a new mango distilled beverage

The large scale of mango production allows for the application of immediate technologies to minimize post-harvest losses and add even more value to the fruit chain. As a consequence of feasible applications, the production of alcoholic beverages through fermentation and distillation has been elaborated, resulting in a supply of products with different characteristics. This study aimed to monitor the development of a distilled mango beverage and its profile for consumption. The mangoes were selected, pulped and subjected to physicochemical characterization and, subsequently, to fermentation and distillation processes where the kinetics were monitored, and the beverage obtained was compared to similar products found in the literature. During column distillation, the relationship between the temperature profile and the alcohol content was observed, allowing for careful selection of each fraction of the distillate and the establishment of a standard for future distillations. As regards the fraction of interest, good results were obtained in terms of composition with compounds such as methanol and acetaldehyde in minimal quantities, indicating a product that can be consumed without health risks. The small amount of studies following the same line of research confirms the potential mango pulp named Tommy Atkins for the formulation of alcoholic products.(AU)

Production and characterization of a new mango distilled beverage

The large scale of mango production allows for the application of immediate technologies to minimize post-harvest losses and add even more value to the fruit chain. As a consequence of feasible applications, the production of alcoholic beverages through fermentation and distillation has been elaborated, resulting in a supply of products with different characteristics. This study aimed to monitor the development of a distilled mango beverage and its profile for consumption. The mangoes were selected, pulped and subjected to physicochemical characterization and, subsequently, to fermentation and distillation processes where the kinetics were monitored, and the beverage obtained was compared to similar products found in the literature. During column distillation, the relationship between the temperature profile and the alcohol content was observed, allowing for careful selection of each fraction of the distillate and the establishment of a standard for future distillations. As regards the fraction of interest, good results were obtained in terms of composition with compounds such as methanol and acetaldehyde in minimal quantities, indicating a product that can be consumed without health risks. The small amount of studies following the same line of research confirms the potential mango pulp named Tommy Atkins for the formulation of alcoholic products.

Expeller soybean meal: evaluation of Holstein cow production and in vitro ruminal kinetic / Farelo de soja expeller: avaliação da produção de vacas holandesas e cinética ruminal in vitro

We aimed to evaluate the inclusion of expeller soybean meal on the quality and milk production of Holstein cows, as well to estimate and compare the inherent parameters of the in vitro ruminal kinetics. Data collection was carried out on a private property, in the interior of the municipality of Dois Vizinhos - Paraná, Brazil. Twenty Holstein cows were used, divided into two treatments: one with the inclusion of expeller soybean meal and the other with conventional soybean meal. The design used was completely randomized with parity. Milk production was evaluated through weighing. Milk samples were collected on days 0, 15, 30 and 45 to evaluate the milk protein, fat, urea nitrogen, lactose and total solids. The In vitro ruminal kinetics of convencional and expeller soybean meal was performed at the Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná - Paraná, Dois Vizinhos. The gas pressure and volume measures were taken after 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 24, 30, 36, 48 and 72 hours of sample incubation. The results obtained were applied in a two-compartmental mathematical model with no latency time in the first compartment for description of ruminal kinetics. Data were analyzed by variance (ANOVA) and compared by the F test. There was no significant difference in any of the variables evaluated from mil production and quality when soybean meal expeller was included in the animals' diet (P>0.05). The expeller soybean meal showed a lower degradation compared to the conventional meal. There were no significant differences for milk production as for concentration of solids in milk.

O objetivo foi avaliar a inclusão do farelo de soja expeller na qualidade e produção do leite de vacas holandesas, assim como estimar e comparar os parâmetros inerentes a cinética ruminal in vitro do farelo de soja convencional e expeller. A coleta de dados a campo foi realizada em propriedade particular, no interior do município de Dois Vizinhos - Paraná, Brasil. Foram utilizadas 20 vacas holandesas, divididas em dois tratamentos: um com inclusão de farelo de soja expeller e o outro com farelo de soja convencional. O delineamento utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado com paridade. Foi avaliada a produção do leite através de pesagem diária. Amostras de leite foram coletadas nos dias 0, 15 e 30 para determinação de proteína, gordura, nitrogênio ureico, lactose e sólidos totais. cinética ruminal in vitro do farelo de soja convencional e farelo de soja expeller foi realizada na Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, campus Dois Vizinhos. As leituras de pressão e volume foram realizadas após 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 24, 30, 36, 48 e 72 horas de incubação. Os resultados obtidos foram aplicados em modelo matemático bicompartimental sem latência no primeiro compartimento para descrição da cinética ruminal. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância (ANOVA) e comparados pelo Teste F. Quanto a produção e qualidade do leite, não houve diferenças significativa para as variáveis avaliadas quando incluído o farelo de soja expeller na dieta dos animais (P>0,05). O farelo de soja expeller apresentou uma degradação inferior comparada ao farelo convencional. Não houve diferenças significativas para a produção de leite como para a concentração de sólidos no leite.

Degradation kinetics and in vitro digestive stability of selected bioactive compounds from a beverage formulated with butterfly pea flowers / Cinética de degradação e estabilidade digestiva in vitro de compostos bioativos selecionados de uma bebida formulada com flores de feijão borborleta

This study evaluated the effects of temperature on the pH of extracts of ascorbic acid and anthocyanins from petals of butterfly pea, as well as their in vitro digestive stability in model systems at 60, 70, and 80 °C. The pH values significantly decreased with an increase in the temperature (P < 0.05). The findings were similar for the degradation of anthocyanins and ascorbic acid, which followed first-order kinetics in all the systems. The samples heated at 80 °C presented the highest degradation rate (kobs), as well as higher percentages of degradation at the end of digestive stability in vitro.

Este estudo avaliou os efeitos da temperatura na estabilidade do ácido ascórbico, pH e antocianinas de pétalas de feijão borboleta, bem como a estabilidade digestiva in vitro do ácido ascórbico e antocianinas em sistemas modelo submetidos a 60, 70 e 80 ºC. Os valores de pH diminuíram significativamente com o aumento da temperatura (P < 0.05). O mesmo foi observado para a degradação de antocianinas e ácido ascórbico, que seguiram cinética de primeira ordem em todos os sistemas. As amostras aquecidas a 80 °C apresentaram as maiores taxas de degradação (kobs), assim como maiores percentuais de degradação ao final da estabilidade digestiva in vitro.

Chitosan combined with technical cashew nut shell liquid improves in vitro ruminal parameters and gas production kinetics

The objective was to evaluate the inclusion of chitosan (CHI) and technical cashew nut shell liquid (CNSLt) as natural feed additives in cattle diets on nutrient digestibility, ruminal fermentation, and in vitro gas production kinetics. We conducted a completely randomized design with 5×4 factorial arrangement, with 20, 35, 50, 65, and 100% Tifton 85 hay and four additives, monensin (200 mg/kg DM), CNSLt (500 mg/kg DM), CHI (500 mg/kg DM), and CNSLt+CHI (500 mg/kg DM/each). Dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM) digestibility showed a linear reduction according to forage levels. The highest DM digestibility was observed with CHI on cattle diets. Inclusion of CHI increased DM digestibility. The highest in vitro organic matter and crude protein (CP) digestibilities were observed for CNSLt+CHI. The in vitro dry matter digestibility increased linearly with concentrate in the diet. There was interaction of forage:concentrate ratio and the additives for neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber and hemicellulose digestibility. Chitosan, CNSLt, and CNSLt+CHI promoted the lowest acetate:propionate ratio compared with monensin. Total gas production showed interaction of the forage:concentrate ratio and additives. Lag time was lowest with CNSLt+CHI. Chitosan and CNSLt can be considered alternative fermentation modulators to ionophores by improving nutrient digestibility and increasing ruminal propionate concentrations.(AU)

Potassium uptake kinetics in native forage grass species from Pampa Biome / Cinética de absorção de potássio em espécies de gramíneas forrageiras nativas do bioma Pampa

This study quantified K uptake kinetic parameters in grass species Paspalum notatum, Paspalum urvillei and Axonopus affinis to associate them with growth. Ten milliliters (10 ml) of nutrient solution were collected in two-liter pots - with five repetitions in 24 hours - in order to determine K concentrations in the samples. Shoot and root dry matter, root length, volume, diameter and surface area, as well as kinetic parameters associated with nutrient uptake (Vmax, Km, Cmin and I) were determined. Species P. notatum was the one presenting the highest root, shoot and total dry matter production, as well as the highest root volume. P. urvillei recorded the highest K content, which may be associated with thinner roots and greater root surface area. A. affinis recorded the highest Vmax value, which led to greater K uptake efficiency.

O estudo quantificou os parâmetros cinéticos de captação de K nas gramíneas Paspalum notatum, Paspalum urvillei e Axonopus affinis associados com o crescimento. Dez mililitros (10 ml) de solução nutritiva foram coletados em vasos de dois litros - com cinco repetições em 24 horas - para determinação das concentrações de K nas amostras. A matéria seca da parte aérea e raízes; comprimento, volume, diâmetro e área superficial radicular, bem como parâmetros cinéticos associados à absorção de nutrientes (Vmax, Km, Cmin e I) foram avaliados. A espécie P. notatum apresentou a maior produção de raiz, parte aérea e MS total, bem como o maior volume de raiz. P. urvillei apresentou o maior teor de K, que pode ser associado a raízes mais finas e resultando em maior área superficial. A. affinis registrou o maior valor de Vmax, o que levou a uma maior eficiência de absorção de K.

Drying temperatures on the functional properties of purple-fleshed sweet potato / Efeito das temperaturas de secagem nas propriedades funcionais da batata doce de polpa roxa

Purple-fleshed sweet potatoes are rich in phenolic compounds, such as anthocyanins, and also exhibit hypoglycemic properties. Anthocyanins are natural antioxidants with the capacity to inhibit or delay injuries caused by free radicals. Drying is one of the most commonly used vegetable preservation methods; although,it has parameters that affect the sensory and physicochemical properties of the final product. The present study assessed the impact of drying temperatures (40, 50, and 60 °C) on the purple-fleshed sweet potato. Cut, unpeeled potato slices of 4 cm in diameter and 3 mm in thickness were dried in an oven with hot air circulation. The effect of the different temperatures on the antioxidant capacity, phenolic compound content, and total and monomeric quantities of anthocyanins in purple sweet potato were measured, and a mathematical model describing the drying kinetics was determined. According to the results observed, the process at 40 °C better preserved the phenolic compounds; however, drying at 50 °C was more efficient for conserving the antioxidant capacity measured by the H + capture method performed by DDPH, and for the total and monomeric quantities of anthocyanins. The mathematical models that best described the kinetic curves were those of Henderson and Pabis, and Page.

A batata doce roxa de polpa roxa é rica em compostos fenólicos, como as antocianinas além de possuir também propriedades hipoglicêmicas. As antocianinas são antioxidantes naturais capazes de inibir ou retardar lesões causadas por radicais livres. Um dos métodos de conservação de vegetais mais utilizados é a secagem. Mesmo sendo um método de execução simples, possui parâmetros de processo que interferem amplamente em termos sensoriais e nas propriedades físico-químicas do produto final. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar o impacto de três temperaturas de secagem (40, 50 e 60 °C), em rodelas de batata doce roxa de polpa roxa com casca, com diâmetro de 4cm e espessura de 3mm, em desidratador com circulação de ar quente sobre a capacidade antioxidante, teor de compostos fenólicos, antocianinas totais e monoméricas, além de determinar um modelo matemático que pudesse descrever as cinéticas de secagem. De acordo com os resultados obtidos a secagem a 40 °C se mostrou mais conveniente em termos de compostos fenólicos, porém a secagem a 50 °C se mostrou mais eficiente para o resultado de capacidade antioxidante pelo método de captura de H+ realizado por DPPH e para antocianinas totais e monoméricas. Os modelos matemáticos que descreveram melhor as curvas de cinética foram o modelos de Henderson e Pabis e o de Page.

Assessment of coconut water added to Numida meleagris egg yolk as cryoprotectant for goat semen

Effects were assessed of the dilutants TRIS and ACP - 101c® with the addition of different guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) egg yolk concentrations. Fifteen ejaculates were collected from five goats of the Anglo Nubian breed. The ejaculates were pooled and then divided into 12 groups, two control groups (GC1 TRIS, with 2.5% Gallus gallus domesticus hen egg yolk GOGD), (GC2 Control Group ACP - 101c®, with the addition of 2.5% Gallus gallus domesticus hen egg yolk GOGD) and ten experimental groups (EG), containing TRIS and ACP added with different concentrations of egg yolk from guinea hen (Numida meleagris) (TRIS 2,5% GONM; TRIS 5% GONM; TRIS 10% GONM; TRIS 15% GONM; TRIS 20% GONM; ACP® 2,5% GONM; ACP® 5% GONM; ACP® 10% GONM; ACP® 15% GONM; ACP® 20% GONM). Then cryopreservation was carried out and the samples stored in liquid nitrogen (-196 °C). After seven days, the samples were thawed and assessed for spermatic kinetics, immunofluorescence and sperm morphology. Analysis of GOMN by the CASA system showed that the various parameters were similar to those of GOGD (P>0.05). The membrane integrity, mitochondrial potential and the acrosome were not influenced by the treatment (P>0.05) nor by the dilutant used for cryopreservation (P>0.05). The spermatic morphology was also preserved by the different GOGD and GONM concentrations in the ACP® and TRIS dilutants, with no statistically significant differences (P<0.05). It was concluded that Numida meleagris egg yolk, as external membrane cryoproctant added to the dilutants ACP-101c® and TRIS, improved goat semen quality.(AU)

Evaluation of nutritional and ruminal degradability potential of sandbox (Hura crepitans L. ) seeds in stabled Blackbelly sheep

This study evaluated chemical composition, in situ dry matter degradability (DMD), energy utilization, and amino acid profile of the sandbox seed meal (SSM) obtained from ground seeds of Hura crepitans trees. Two cannulated male Blackbelly sheep (initial weight of 40 kg) were fed a balanced feed ad libitum for 21 days; rumen samples of animals were collected for seven days using the nylon bag technique for degradability. The results were interpreted in reference to incubation times from 0 to 72 h, evaluating degradation kinetics with an exponential model. The SSM showed crude protein and dry matter contents of 251.1 and 931.7 g/kg, respectively. The highest DMD value was recorded from 0 to 3 h with a change rate of 41%, and the energy contained in SSM had a gradual ruminal disappearance with a maximum value of energy utilization of 14.6% after 72 h post-incubation. The most representative amino acids of SSM were glutamic (16.9%), arginine (13.0%), and aspartic (9.7%) acids. The results suggest that SSM has adequate nutritional quality and ruminal DMD for ovine feeding systems.(AU)

Paraoxonase 1 activity in the sperm-rich portion of boar ejaculates is positively associated with sperm quality

Associations of the activity of the paraoxonase 1 (PON1) enzyme with boar sperm quality still needs to be characterized, since boar ejaculates present distinct portions with differences in sperm concentration and quality. This study evaluated PON1 activity in the serum, in the distinct portions of boar ejaculates and estimated correlations with sperm quality parameters. Ejaculates and blood samples were collected from six boars for three weeks (two per week per boar; n = 36). Serum and post-spermatic portion PON1 activities were positively correlated (P = 0.01) but were both uncorrelated with the PON1 activity in the sperm-rich portion and in the whole ejaculate (P > 0.05). Differences in PON1 activity among boars were only observed in the sperm-rich portion of the ejaculate (P < 0.05). The PON1 activity in the serum and in the post-spermatic portion was generally negatively correlated with parameters of spermatozoa kinetics (P < 0.05). In the sperm-rich portion, PON1 activity was positively correlated with sperm concentration (P < 0.0001), curvilinear distance and velocity (both P < 0.05) and DNA integrity (P < 0.05), but negatively correlated with straightness and linearity (P < 0.05). Thus, boar ejaculates with increased PON1 activity in the sperm-rich portion may present increased concentration and spermatozoa with acceptable curvilinear velocity and distance and DNA integrity, which suggests that PON1 activity may be a biomarker for potential fertility.(AU)

Studies on the recombinant production and anticancer activity of thermostable L- asparaginase I from Pyrococcus abyssi / Estudos sobre a produção recombinante e atividade anticancerígena da L asparaginase I termoestável de Pyrococcus abyssi

L-Asparaginase catalysing the breakdown of L-Asparagine to L-Aspartate and ammonia is an enzyme of therapeutic importance in the treatment of cancer, especially the lymphomas and leukaemia. The present study describes the recombinant production, properties and anticancer potential of enzyme from a hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus abyssi. There are two genes coding for asparaginase in the genome of this organism. A 918 bp gene encoding 305 amino acids was PCR amplified and cloned in BL21 (DE3) strain of E. coli using pET28a (+) plasmid. The production of recombinant enzyme was induced under 0.5mM IPTG, purified by selective heat denaturation and ion exchange chromatography. Purified enzyme was analyzed for kinetics, in silico structure and anticancer properties. The recombinant enzyme has shown a molecular weight of 33 kDa, specific activity of 1175 U/mg, KM value 2.05mM, optimum temperature and pH 80°C and 8 respectively. No detectable enzyme activity found when L-Glutamine was used as the substrate. In silico studies have shown that the enzyme exists as a homodimer having Arg11, Ala87, Thr110, His112, Gln142, Leu172, and Lys232 being the putative active site residues. The free energy change calculated by molecular docking studies of enzyme and substrate was found as ∆G – 4.5 kJ/mole indicating the affinity of enzyme with the substrate. IC50 values of 5U/mL to 7.5U/mL were determined for FB, caco2 cells and HepG2 cells. A calculated amount of enzyme (5U/mL) exhibited 78% to 55% growth inhibition of caco2 and HepG2 cells. In conclusion, the recombinant enzyme produced and characterized in the present study offers a good candidate for the treatment of cancer. The procedures adopted in the present study can be prolonged for in vivo studies.

A L-asparaginase, que catalisa a degradação da L-asparagina em L-aspartato e amônia, é uma enzima de importância terapêutica no tratamento do câncer, especialmente dos linfomas e da leucemia. O presente estudo descreve a produção recombinante, propriedades e potencial anticancerígeno da enzima de Pyrococcus abyssi, um archaeon hipertermofílico. Existem dois genes que codificam para a asparaginase no genoma desse organismo. Um gene de 918 bp, que codifica 305 aminoácidos, foi amplificado por PCR e clonado na cepa BL21 (DE3) de E. coli usando o plasmídeo pET28a (+). A produção da enzima recombinante foi induzida sob 0,5mM de IPTG, purificada por desnaturação seletiva por calor e cromatografia de troca iônica. A enzima purificada foi analisada quanto à cinética, estrutura in silico e propriedades anticancerígenas. A enzima recombinante apresentou peso molecular de 33 kDa, atividade específica de 1.175 U / mg, valor de KM 2,05 mM, temperatura ótima de 80º C e pH 8. Nenhuma atividade enzimática detectável foi encontrada quando a L-glutamina foi usada como substrato. Estudos in silico mostraram que a enzima existe como um homodímero, com Arg11, Ala87, Thr110, His112, Gln142, Leu172 e Lys232 sendo os resíduos do local ativo putativo. A mudança de energia livre calculada por estudos de docking molecular da enzima e do substrato foi encontrada como ∆G – 4,5 kJ / mol, indicando a afinidade da enzima com o substrato. Valores de IC50 de 5U / mL a 7,5U / mL foram determinados para células FB, células caco2 e células HepG2. Uma quantidade de enzima (5U / mL) apresentou inibição de crescimento de 78% a 55% das células caco2 e HepG2, respectivamente. Em conclusão, a enzima recombinante produzida e caracterizada no presente estudo é uma boa possibilidade para o tratamento do câncer. Os procedimentos adotados na presente pesquisa podem ser aplicados para estudos in vivo.

Studies on the recombinant production and anticancer activity of thermostable L- asparaginase I from Pyrococcus abyssi / Estudos sobre a produção recombinante e atividade anticancerígena da L asparaginase I termoestável de Pyrococcus abyssi

L-Asparaginase catalysing the breakdown of L-Asparagine to L-Aspartate and ammonia is an enzyme of therapeutic importance in the treatment of cancer, especially the lymphomas and leukaemia. The present study describes the recombinant production, properties and anticancer potential of enzyme from a hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus abyssi. There are two genes coding for asparaginase in the genome of this organism. A 918 bp gene encoding 305 amino acids was PCR amplified and cloned in BL21 (DE3) strain of E. coli using pET28a (+) plasmid. The production of recombinant enzyme was induced under 0.5mM IPTG, purified by selective heat denaturation and ion exchange chromatography. Purified enzyme was analyzed for kinetics, in silico structure and anticancer properties. The recombinant enzyme has shown a molecular weight of 33 kDa, specific activity of 1175 U/mg, KM value 2.05mM, optimum temperature and pH 80°C and 8 respectively. No detectable enzyme activity found when L-Glutamine was used as the substrate. In silico studies have shown that the enzyme exists as a homodimer having Arg11, Ala87, Thr110, His112, Gln142, Leu172, and Lys232 being the putative active site residues. The free energy change calculated by molecular docking studies of enzyme and substrate was found as ∆G 4.5 kJ/mole indicating the affinity of enzyme with the substrate. IC50 values of 5U/mL to 7.5U/mL were determined for FB, caco2 cells and HepG2 cells. A calculated amount of enzyme (5U/mL) exhibited 78% to 55% growth inhibition of caco2 and HepG2 cells. In conclusion, the recombinant enzyme produced and characterized in the present study offers a good candidate for the treatment of cancer. The procedures adopted in the present study can be prolonged for in vivo studies.(AU)

A L-asparaginase, que catalisa a degradação da L-asparagina em L-aspartato e amônia, é uma enzima de importância terapêutica no tratamento do câncer, especialmente dos linfomas e da leucemia. O presente estudo descreve a produção recombinante, propriedades e potencial anticancerígeno da enzima de Pyrococcus abyssi, um archaeon hipertermofílico. Existem dois genes que codificam para a asparaginase no genoma desse organismo. Um gene de 918 bp, que codifica 305 aminoácidos, foi amplificado por PCR e clonado na cepa BL21 (DE3) de E. coli usando o plasmídeo pET28a (+). A produção da enzima recombinante foi induzida sob 0,5mM de IPTG, purificada por desnaturação seletiva por calor e cromatografia de troca iônica. A enzima purificada foi analisada quanto à cinética, estrutura in silico e propriedades anticancerígenas. A enzima recombinante apresentou peso molecular de 33 kDa, atividade específica de 1.175 U / mg, valor de KM 2,05 mM, temperatura ótima de 80º C e pH 8. Nenhuma atividade enzimática detectável foi encontrada quando a L-glutamina foi usada como substrato. Estudos in silico mostraram que a enzima existe como um homodímero, com Arg11, Ala87, Thr110, His112, Gln142, Leu172 e Lys232 sendo os resíduos do local ativo putativo. A mudança de energia livre calculada por estudos de docking molecular da enzima e do substrato foi encontrada como ∆G 4,5 kJ / mol, indicando a afinidade da enzima com o substrato. Valores de IC50 de 5U / mL a 7,5U / mL foram determinados para células FB, células caco2 e células HepG2. Uma quantidade de enzima (5U / mL) apresentou inibição de crescimento de 78% a 55% das células caco2 e HepG2, respectivamente. Em conclusão, a enzima recombinante produzida e caracterizada no presente estudo é uma boa possibilidade para o tratamento do câncer. Os procedimentos adotados na presente pesquisa podem ser aplicados para estudos in vivo.(AU)

Effect of row spacing and maturity at harvest on the fermentative profile, aerobic stability, and nutritional characteristics of biomass sorghum (BRS 716) silage in the semiarid region of Brazil

The objective was to evaluate the effects of maturity at harvest and row spacing on fermentative profile, aerobic stability, and nutritional value of biomass sorghum (BRS 716) silage. The experiment was conducted using a split-plot completely randomized block design with three row spacings (45, 70, and 90 cm) and four maturities at harvest (70, 100, 130, and 160 days) and eight replications. Polyvinyl chloride silos of known weight measuring 50 cm length and 10 cm diameter were used for silage production. Dry matter and total carbohydrate contents of the silage increased linearly, whereas crude protein and ash decreased linearly with maturity at harvest. Row spacing did not influence pH, ammoniacal nitrogen (N-NH3 ), gas and effluent losses, and dry matter recovery of silage. The concentrations of malic, succinic, and acetic acids and ethanol responded quadratically to maturity at harvest. The levels of neutral detergent fiber, lignin, and indigestible neutral detergent fiber increased linearly with maturity at harvest. Ruminal degradation kinetics of dry matter of biomass sorghum silage was not influenced by row spacing. BRS 716 biomass sorghum should be planted at 70-cm row spacing and harvested at 160 days for silage production based on fermentative profile, dry matter losses, and nutritional characteristics.

Organic carbon mineralization of the biochar and organic compost of poultry litter in an Argisol / Mineralização de carbono orgânico do biocarvão e do composto orgânico de cama de aviário em um Argissolo

The dynamics of the organic residues added to the soil are closely related to its mineralization rate. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the organic carbon mineralization in soil samples incubated with different doses of biochar and organic compost from poultry litter. Carbon mineralization was evaluated experimentally by measuring the C-CO2 liberated by incubating 200 g of soil mixed with different doses 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 t ha-¹ of both biochar and organic compost for 61 days. The soil microbial activity, and consequently the carbon mineralization, increased with the application of doses of biochar and organic compost from the poultry litter. The highest C-CO2 mineralization was observed in the treatments that received organic compost. The carbon mineralization process followed chemical kinetics with two simultaneous reactions. The greatest amount of released and accumulated C-CO2 was observed in the soil incubated with 15 and 20 t ha-¹ of organic compost from the poultry litter. The doses of biochar did not influence the content of mineralized carbon; this behavior was not verified with the use of this compost, whose highest content corresponded to 85.69 mg kg-¹, applying 20 t ha-¹.

A dinâmica dos resíduos orgânicos adicionados ao solo está intimamente relacionada à sua taxa de mineralização. Para isso, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a mineralização do carbono orgânico em amostras de solo incubadas com diferentes doses de biocarvão e de composto orgânico da cama de aviário. A mineralização de carbono foi avaliada experimentalmente medindo-se o C-CO2 liberado durante uma incubação de 200 g de solo misturado com doses de 0, 5, 10, 15 e 20 t ha-¹ de biocarvão e de composto orgânico, durante 61 dias. A atividade microbiana do solo e consequentemente a mineralização de carbono aumentaram com a aplicação das doses de biocarvão e de composto orgânico da cama de aviário. A maior mineralização de C-CO2 foi observada nos tratamentos que receberam composto orgânico. A mineralização do carbono foi um processo dividido em duas fases distintas, a primeira com mineralização intensa e meia-vida curta do carbono e a segunda com processo de mineralização lento, com tendência de redução e estabilização do fluxo de C-CO2. A mineralização de carbono obtida com os substratos avaliados no presente estudo mostrou que os materiais pirolisados (biocarvão) são bastante eficientes para sequestrar o carbono do solo e mitigar o efeito "estufa".

Organic carbon mineralization of the biochar and organic compost of poultry litter in an Argisol / Mineralização de carbono orgânico do biocarvão e do composto orgânico de cama de aviário em um Argissolo

The dynamics of the organic residues added to the soil are closely related to its mineralization rate. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the organic carbon mineralization in soil samples incubated with different doses of biochar and organic compost from poultry litter. Carbon mineralization was evaluated experimentally by measuring the C-CO2 liberated by incubating 200 g of soil mixed with different doses 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 t ha-¹ of both biochar and organic compost for 61 days. The soil microbial activity, and consequently the carbon mineralization, increased with the application of doses of biochar and organic compost from the poultry litter. The highest C-CO2 mineralization was observed in the treatments that received organic compost. The carbon mineralization process followed chemical kinetics with two simultaneous reactions. The greatest amount of released and accumulated C-CO2 was observed in the soil incubated with 15 and 20 t ha-¹ of organic compost from the poultry litter. The doses of biochar did not influence the content of mineralized carbon; this behavior was not verified with the use of this compost, whose highest content corresponded to 85.69 mg kg-¹, applying 20 t ha-¹.(AU)

A dinâmica dos resíduos orgânicos adicionados ao solo está intimamente relacionada à sua taxa de mineralização. Para isso, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a mineralização do carbono orgânico em amostras de solo incubadas com diferentes doses de biocarvão e de composto orgânico da cama de aviário. A mineralização de carbono foi avaliada experimentalmente medindo-se o C-CO2 liberado durante uma incubação de 200 g de solo misturado com doses de 0, 5, 10, 15 e 20 t ha-¹ de biocarvão e de composto orgânico, durante 61 dias. A atividade microbiana do solo e consequentemente a mineralização de carbono aumentaram com a aplicação das doses de biocarvão e de composto orgânico da cama de aviário. A maior mineralização de C-CO2 foi observada nos tratamentos que receberam composto orgânico. A mineralização do carbono foi um processo dividido em duas fases distintas, a primeira com mineralização intensa e meia-vida curta do carbono e a segunda com processo de mineralização lento, com tendência de redução e estabilização do fluxo de C-CO2. A mineralização de carbono obtida com os substratos avaliados no presente estudo mostrou que os materiais pirolisados (biocarvão) são bastante eficientes para sequestrar o carbono do solo e mitigar o efeito "estufa". (AU)