Impact of persistent bovine viral diarrhea virus infection on indicators of innate and adaptive immune function in holstein calves and cows / Impacto da infecção persistente pelo vírus da diarreia viral bovina sobre indicadores de função imunológica inata e adaptativa em bezerras e vacas holandesas

We evaluated some indicators of innate and humoral immune response in persistently infected (PI) Holstein calves and cows from 1 to 36 months of age matched with controls from the same herd. The effects were cataloged by grouping animals into the following age groups: <12 months, 13 to 24 months, and 25 to 36 months of age. Blood samples were collected once from each animal to measure total serum protein, haptoglobin, and neutralizing antibodies titers induced by respiratory virus vaccination. Total serum protein (g/dL) was lowest in PI calves younger until 24 months old, while haptoglobin concentration was higher in PI cattle. The serum neutralizing titers against BVDV and BRSV were lower in all PI calves and cattle than in controls. PI cattle have a high serum concentration of haptoglobin, and its possible dysregulated innate immune response appears to impact the efficacy of their adaptative immune responses, resulting in poor vaccine responsiveness.

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar alguns indicadores da resposta imune inata e humoral em bezerros a vacas persistentemente infectadas, entre um a 36 meses de idade, pareados com controles oriundos de um mesmo rebanho. As variáveis respostas foram avaliadas agrupando-se os animais nos seguintes grupos etários: < 12 meses, 13 a 24 meses, 25 a 36 meses de idade. Amostras sanguíneas foram coletadas para mensurar as concentrações séricas de proteína, haptoglobina e anticorpos neutralizantes induzidos pela vacinação contra as viroses respiratórias. Os teores de proteína sérica total (g/dL) foram menores nos animais persistentemente infectados (PI) jovens até 24 meses de idade, enquanto que a concentração de haptoglobina foi maior nos animais PI mais velhos (25 a 36 meses). Os títulos de anticorpos neutralizantes contra o BVDV e BRSV foi menor nos animais PIs independentemente da idade, comparado com o grupo controle. Os valores reduzidos ou nulos de anticorpos contra as viroses respiratórias, combinado com a evidência de resposta imune inata desregulada, contribui com a susceptibilidade dos animais PIs para as infecções secundárias.

Impact of persistent bovine viral diarrhea virus infection on indicators of innate and adaptive immune function in holstein calves and cows / Impacto da infecção persistente pelo vírus da diarreia viral bovina sobre indicadoresde função imunológica inata e adaptativa em bezerras e vacas holandesas

ABSTRACT: We evaluated some indicators of innate and humoral immune response in persistently infected (PI) Holstein calves and cows from 1 to 36 months of age matched with controls from the same herd. The effects were cataloged by grouping animals into the following age groups: <12 months, 13 to 24 months, and 25 to 36 months of age. Blood samples were collected once from each animal to measure total serum protein, haptoglobin, and neutralizing antibodies titers induced by respiratory virus vaccination. Total serum protein (g/dL) was lowest in PI calves younger until 24 months old, while haptoglobin concentration was higher in PI cattle. The serum neutralizing titers against BVDV and BRSV were lower in all PI calves and cattle than in controls. PI cattle have a high serum concentration of haptoglobin, and its possible dysregulated innate immune response appears to impact the efficacy of their adaptative immune responses, resulting in poor vaccine responsiveness.

RESUMO: O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar alguns indicadores da resposta imune inata e humoral em bezerros a vacas persistentemente infectadas, entre um a 36 meses de idade, pareados com controles oriundos de um mesmo rebanho. As variáveis respostas foram avaliadas agrupando-se os animais nos seguintes grupos etários: < 12 meses, 13 a 24 meses, 25 a 36 meses de idade. Amostras sanguíneas foram coletadas para mensurar as concentrações séricas de proteína, haptoglobina e anticorpos neutralizantes induzidos pela vacinação contra as viroses respiratórias. Os teores de proteína sérica total (g/dL) foram menores nos animais persistentemente infectados (PI) jovens até 24 meses de idade, enquanto que a concentração de haptoglobina foi maior nos animais PI mais velhos (25 a 36 meses). Os títulos de anticorpos neutralizantes contra o BVDV e BRSV foi menor nos animais PIs independentemente da idade, comparado com o grupo controle. Os valores reduzidos ou nulos de anticorpos contra as viroses respiratórias, combinado com a evidência de resposta imune inata desregulada, contribui com a susceptibilidade dos animais PIs para as infecções secundárias.

Determination of the Gastrointestinal Passage Rate Using Dexa Technology and Barium Sulfate As a Marker in Japanese Quails

The objective of this study was to characterize the dynamics of food passage in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of Japanese quail. A randomized design was used with four treatments and four experimental units with one bird each, nine of which were measured in time. The ingredients used were albumin, starch, cellulose, and soybean oil. Suspensions containing barium sulfate and saline were prepared, except for soybean oil. For each bird, 2.5 mL of the suspension was administered directly to the crop. Dual-energy absorptiometry (DEXA) was used to quantify the passage of food. The birds were sedated and maintained under inhalation anesthesia during the scan. Measurements were taken at intervals of 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 24 h. The variables identified were passage time, first quality, and the average time of each variable. Based on these results, the ingredients may show differences in dynamic passing on the Japanese quail GIT. The duration of the first attempt was 32 min, ranging from 21 to 44 min. The average time value of food choice was close to 10.8 h and varied according to the ingredient from 8.45-12.16 h. Among the variables, soybean oil presented values ​​that denote a fast passage in the GIT, while albumin presented values ​​that denote a slower passage. The dynamics of food passage in the GIT of Japanese quails varies according to the chemical composition of the ingredients.(AU)

Fertilidade e suscetibilidade à criopreservação espermática: avanços e desafios / Fertility and susceptibility to sperm cryopreservation: advances and challenges

Estudos sobre a fisiologia espermática demonstram que padrões de fertilidade e funcionalidade espermática pós-criopreservação possuem relação importante com a eficiência do metabolismo energético destas células, bem como com a sua capacidade de manter a homeostase oxidativa. Os conhecimentos sobre a relação entre perfil fisiológico de espermatozoides e fertilidade foram e, ainda estão sendo, aprimorados, com o uso de análises de perfis moleculares, com destaque para a metabolômica. As análises moleculares permitiram a identificação de classes de metabólitos importantes na fisiologia espermática, bem como de potenciais biomarcadores de fertilidade, inclusive em bovinos. No entanto, ainda não há disponível uma avaliação isolada capaz de estimar o padrão de fertilidade de amostras seminais. Há vários desafios a serem superados para a validação de biomarcadores de fertilidade, principalmente considerando-se as diferenças entre perfis metabólicos de raças distintas de touros e a heterogeneidade dos ejaculados. A superação destes desafios pode ser iniciada com um maior aproveitamento dos resultados já obtidos e futuros, com a aplicação de análises mais avançadas e com eficácia em elevado número de dados. Para tal, podem ser utilizados modelos estatísticos de inteligência artificial, cuja aplicação pode aumentar a acurácia das observações obtidas, bem como aproximá-las da aplicação pelo setor de produção animal.(AU)

Studies on sperm physiology demonstrate that fertility outcomes and sperm post-cryopreservation have an important relation with sperm energy metabolism efficiency and ability to maintain oxidative homeostasis. Knowledge on sperm physiology has been enhanced, continually, with the application of molecular profiling analysis, focusing on metabolomics. Molecular analysis allowed the identification of important classes of metabolites in sperm physiology, as well as potential fertility biomarkers, including in bovine. Despite all developments, there is still no isolated assessment available capable of estimating fertility on sperm samples. There are several challenges to be overcome for the validation of fertility biomarkers, especially considering the metabolic profiles differences between bull breeds and the ejaculate heterogeneity. Overcoming these challenges could start with the application of more advanced and effective data analysis from research database already obtained, as well as future ones. To this end, statistical models of artificial intelligence can be used, whose application can increase the accuracy of the observations obtained, as well as bringing them closer to the application by the animal production sector.(AU)

Effect of Bacillus Subtilis on Immune Function of Hd11 Chicken Macrophages

Poultry is frequently contaminated by Salmonella, a pathogen leading to human health concern worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Bacillus subtilis (BS)strain 048 (BS048) on the activation, phagocytosis, sterilization, cytokine secretion, and nitrogen oxide synthesis of HD11 chicken macrophages subjected to Salmonella enteritidis challenge, using lipopolysaccharide treatment as a negative control. The results showed: (1) BS048 had no significant effect on extracellular lactate dehydrogenase activity (p>0.05), while lipopolysaccharide treatment significantly increased extracellular lactate dehydrogenase activity (p >0.05), while lipopolysaccharide treatment significantly increased extracellular lactate dehydrogenase activity (p 0.05);(2)BS048 significantly upregulated the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)- 1â and IL-6), anti-inflammatory cytokines(IL-10 and transforming growth factor-â1), and anti-viral cytokine, interferon-â (p<0.01); ; (3) BS048 significantly upregulated the mRNA expression level of the inducible nitric oxide synthase and its activity as well as extracellular nitrogen oxide level (p <0.01). In conclusion, BS048 could improve antiinflammatory and immune functions of HD11 chicken macrophages, without cytotoxic effects on these cells.(AU)

Changes in expression levels of Nod-like receptors in the spleen of ewes

Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain receptors (NOD-like receptors, NLRs) have critical effects on interfaces of the immune and reproductive systems, and the spleen plays a key role in both innate and adaptive immune functions. It is hypothesized that NLR family participates in maternal splenic immune regulation during early pregnancy in sheep. In this study, maternal spleens were collected on day 16 of the estrous cycle, and days 13, 16 and 25 of gestation (n = 6 for each group) in ewes. Expression of NLR family, including NOD1, NOD2, class II transactivator (CIITA), NLR family apoptosis inhibitory protein (NAIP), nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, Leucine rich repeat and Pyrin domain containing 1 (NLRP1), NLRP3 and NLRP7, was analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis. The results revealed that expression levels of NOD1, NOD2, CIITA and NLRP3 were downregulated at days 13 and 16 of pregnancy, but expression of NLRP3 was increased at day 25 of pregnancy. In addition, expression values of NAIP and NLRP7 mRNA and proteins were improved at days 16 and 25 of pregnancy, and NLRP1 was peaked at days 13 and 16 of pregnancy in the maternal spleen. Furthermore, NOD2 and NLRP7 proteins were limited to the capsule, trabeculae and splenic cords. In summary, early pregnancy changes expression of NLR family in the maternal spleen, which may be related with the maternal splenic immunomodulation during early pregnancy in sheep.(AU)

Isoliquiritigenin regulates the circ_0002860/miR-431-5p/RAB9A axis to function as a tumor inhibitor in melanoma

Background: Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) presents antitumor effects against melanoma cells. It is known that various circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the development of melanoma. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms of ISL and circ_0002860. Methods: Circ_0002860, microRNA-431-5p (miR-431-5p) and member RAS oncogene family (RAB9A) were detected through reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay. Cell viability was examined via cell counting kit-8 assay. The proliferation ability was assessed using colony formation assay. Cell apoptosis and cell cycle were determined by flow cytometry. Transwell assay was used for detection of migration and invasion. Western blot was conducted for protein analysis. Target binding was confirmed via dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. In vivo research was performed through xenograft tumor assay. Results: Circ_0002860 was downregulated by ISL in melanoma cells. ISL-induced inhibitory effects on cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, migration and invasion were alleviated by circ_0002860 overexpression. MiR-431-5p was a target of circ_0002860. Circ_0002860 eliminated the ISL-induced tumor inhibition via sponging miR-431-5p in melanoma cells. Circ_0002860 elevated the RAB9A level by targeting miR-431-5p. The function of ISL was related to miR-431-5p/RAB9A axis in melanoma progression. Tumor growth was reduced by ISL in vivo through downregulating circ_0002860 to regulate miR-431-5p and RAB9A levels. Conclusion: The current data indicates that ISL suppressed cell malignant progression of melanoma via targeting the circ_0002860/miR-431-5p/RAB9A pathway.(AU)

Relationship of Linoleic and Alpha-Linolenic Acids on the Productive Performance and Serum Biochemical Profile of Japanese Quail Breeders

Linoleic (LA, 18:2) and alpha-linolenic (ALA, 18:3) acids are omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids considered essential to human and animal health. The optimum LA/ALA ratio for the production of fertile eggs in Japanese quail breeders has been little investigated. Thus, this study aimed to assess the effects of LA/ALA ratio on productive performance, egg quality, serum biochemical profile, body composition, and organ weight in Japanese quail. A completely randomized design was used. Birds were distributed into five treatments consisting of different LA/ALA ratios (1.48:1, 4.57:1, 7.63:1, 10.69:1, and 13.75:1), obtained by adding soybean (LA) and flaxseed (ALA) oils to the feed. Productive performance and egg quality were assessed in three cycles of 28 days each. At the end of the experiment, the birds were slaughtered and evaluated for biochemical profile, genital organ weights, and body composition. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and regression (p<0.05). LA/ALA ratio had no effect on productive performance or egg quality. Blood cholesterol in females and males and total triglycerides in females showed a quadratic response. Breeders fed the highest level of flaxseed oil (1.48:1) had the best serum levels of cholesterol and total triglycerides. Live weight and relative organ weights were not influenced by LA/ALA ratio. Differences in ash and crude protein levels were observed between groups, with LA increasing the deposition of these nutrients. It was concluded that LA/ALA ratio didn't affect productive performance or egg quality. However, based on the results of body composition, serum triglycerides, and cholesterol, it is recommended to use an LA/ALA ratio of 1.48:1 in diets.(AU)

Criopreservação do sêmen suíno: desafios a serem superados que auxiliam a identificação de espermatozoides mais férteis / Boar semen cryopreservation: challenges to be overcome that help the identification of more fertile spermatozoa

A criopreservação é o melhor método de armazenamento de sêmen por período indeterminado, conferindo alta flexibilidade de uso. Além disso, é o principal meio para formação de banco de germoplasma. No entanto, congelar sêmen suíno ainda é um desafio a ser enfrentado. Isso porquê, além das características de membrana espermática que ocasionam maiores efeitos deletérios às células durante os processos de congelação e descongelação, ainda é preciso lidar com a grande variabilidade de resultados, seja entre indivíduos, ejaculados de um mesmo indivíduo ou ainda, frações de um mesmo ejaculado. Frente a isso, diferentes estratégias têm sido investigadas a fim de obter melhores resultados e assim, aumentar a aplicabilidade do sêmen congelado suíno a nível comercial. Além disso, acreditamos que haja a possibilidade de se relacionar a capacidade de criotolerância de um determinado espermatozoide a sua maior ou menor capacidade de fertilizar o oócito.(AU)

Cryopreservation is the best method of storing semen indefinitely, providing high flexibility of use. In addition, it is the primary means for forming a germplasm bank. However, freezing boar semen is still a challenge to be faced because, in addition to the characteristics of the spermatic membrane that cause deleterious effects to the cells during the freezing and thawing processes, it is still necessary to deal with the significant variability of results, whether between individuals, ejaculates from the same individual or even fractions of an even ejaculated. Because of this, different strategies have been investigated to obtain better results and thus increase the applicability of frozen boar semen at a commercial level. Furthermore, we believe it is possible to relate the cryotolerance capacity of a given sperm to its greater or lesser capacity to fertilize the oocyte.(AU)

Heat stress effects on the lactation performance, reproduction, and alleviating nutritional strategies in dairy cattle, a review

Heat stress response in dairy cattle affects milk production, quality, body temperature, and other parameters. Dairy cows will most likely experience increased heat stress with unabated global warming. Elevated temperatures and humidity reduce feed intake, harm reproductive potential， and reduce milk production. Heat stress is more common in high-yielding cows than in low-yielding ones. In addition to reducing milk production, heat stress can also reduce milk quality. During lactation, internal metabolic heat production can further reduce cattle's substances to high temperatures, resulting in altered milk composition and decreased milk yield. Several studies proposed various nutritional strategies such as dietary fats, dietary fibers, microbial diets, mineral substances, vitamins, metal ion buffers, plant extracts, and other antistress additives. This review addresses the challenging study on the effects of heat stress on nutritional and fed intake perturbations, milk and components yield, immune system activation, and reproduction parameters. It proves that specific nutritional strategies effectively mitigate the harmful effects of heat stress in dairy cattle.(AU)

Resveratrol Attenuates Heat-Stress-Impaired Immune and Inflammatory Responses of Broilers by Modulating Toll-Like Receptor-4 Signaling Pathway

This study investigated the effect of resveratrol on the immune and inflammatory responses and the mRNA levels of splenic toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 signaling pathway-related genes of broilers under heat stress (HS). One hundred and sixty-two birds were allocated to three groups, each with 6 replicates, for 21 continuous days. The three treatments were as follows: the control group (22 ± 1 °C), the HS (33 ± 1 °C for 10 h d-1 and 22 ± 1 °C for the remaining time) group and the HS + resveratrol (400 mg kg-1) group. At the end of the trial, one bird per replicate close to the average body weight (BW) was selected, exsanguinated, and slaughtered. Compared with the control group, the HS treatment decreased (p<0.05) final BW, average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), relative weight of bursa of Fabricius and spleen, serum immunoglobulin (Ig) Y, IgA and interleukin (IL)-10 contents, and splenic IL-10 mRNA level, while it increased (p<0.05) feed/gain, mRNA levels of splenic tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), TLR-4, nuclear factor-kappa-B (NF-κB), IL-1ß, and IL-6. Compared to the HS group, the HS+resveratrol group exhibited increased (p<0.05) final BW, ADG, relative weight of bursa of Fabricius and spleen, serum IgY, IgA and IL-10 contents, and splenic IL-10 mRNA level, while it exhibited lower (p<0.05) TNF-α, IL-1ß and IL-6 contents in serum, and splenic TLR4, TNF-α, IL-1ß, and NF-κB mRNA levels. In conclusion, resveratrol prevented a HS-impairment of the immune function of broilers by blocking the abnormal activation of the TLR4 signaling pathway.(AU)

Hematology and serum biochemistry of broilers fed diets supplemented with chondroitin and glucosamine sulfates

The objective of this study was to evaluate the hematology and serum biochemistry of broilers fed diets supplemented with chondroitin and glucosamine sulfates. An experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with a 3 × 3 factorial arrangement (three levels of chondroitin sulfate: 0, 0.05 and 0.10%; and three levels of glucosamine sulfate: 0, 0.15, and 0.30%), with each treatment involving six replicates of 30 birds. Hematology (red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, total plasma protein [TPP], thrombocytes, white blood cells, eosinophils, monocytes, heterophils, and lymphocytes) and serum biochemistry (totalinteraction between sulfates influenced (p < 0.05) total calcium by 21 days, ionic calcium by 21 and 42 days, and phosphorus, chlorides, and sodium by 42 days. Supplementation with chondroitin and glucosamine sulfates in the broilers' diet favored their immune system and mineral metabolism, increasing serum concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, and sodium. serum protein [TSP], albumin, globulins, aspartate aminotransferase [AST], gamma-glutamyltransferase [GGT], alkaline phosphatase [AP], total calcium, ionic calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, and chlorides) variables were evaluated at 21 and 42 days. Data were subjected to analysis of variance. When the means differed significantly by the F-test, orthogonal analysis was performed to test the linear and quadratic effects of chondroitin and glucosamine sulfate levels. Glucosamine sulfate reduced the number of monocytes linearly, by 42 days (p = 0.0399). There was an interaction effect between the sulfates on total white blood cells (p = 0.0099) and lymphocytes (p = 0.0004) by 21 days. Chickens supplemented with 0.10% chondroitin sulfate showed a linear increase in white blood cells (p = 0.0287) and lymphocytes (p = 0.0144) with the addition of glucosamine sulfate. Chondroitin sulfate supplementation increased serum albumin linearly (p = 0.0099) and TSP quadratically (p = 0.0140), by 21 days. Glucosamine sulfate induced a quadratic response (p < 0.05) in albumin by 42 days, with the lowest value found with the inclusion of 0.06%. Glucosamine sulfate reduced chlorides linearly (p = 0.0237) by 21 days and increased calcium linearly (p = 0.0012) by 42 days. The interaction between sulfates influenced (p < 0.05) total calcium by 21 days, ionic calcium by 21 and 42 days, and phosphorus, chlorides, and sodium by 42 days. Supplementation with chondroitin and glucosamine sulfates in the broilers' diet favored their immune system and mineral metabolism, increasing serum concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, and sodium.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a hematologia e a bioquímica sérica de frangos de corte suplementados com sulfatos de condroitina e de glucosamina na ração. Foi conduzido um experimento em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 3 x 3 (três níveis de sulfato de condroitina: 0; 0,05 e 0,10%; e três níveis de sulfato de glucosamina: 0; 0,15 e 0,30%), cada tratamento com seis repetições de 30 aves. Foram avaliadas as variáveis de hematologia (hemácias, hemoglobina, hematócrito, proteínas plasmáticas totais [PPT], trombócitos, leucócitos, eosinófilos, monócitos, heterofilos e linfócitos) e bioquímica sérica (proteínas séricas totais [PST], albumina, globulinas, aspartato aminotransferase [AST], gama glutamiltransferase [GGT], fosfatase alcalina [FA], cálcio total, cálcio iônico, fósforo, sódio, potássio e cloretos) aos 21 e 42 dias. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância. Quando as médias diferiram significativamente pelo teste F, a análise ortogonal foi realizada para testar os efeitos lineares e quadráticos dos níveis dos sulfatos de condroitina e de glucosamina. Observou-se efeito linear decrescente (p = 0,0399) do sulfato de glucosamina na quantidade de monócitos aos 42 dias. Houve interação dos sulfatos para leucócitos totais (p = 0,0099) e linfócitos (p = 0,0004) aos 21 dias. Frangos suplementados com 0,10% de sulfato de condroitina mostraram um aumento linear dos leucócitos (p = 0,0287) e dos linfócitos (p = 0,0144) com a inclusão de sulfato de glucosamina. A suplementação com sulfato de condroitina aumentou linearmente (p = 0,0099) a albumina sérica e afetou de forma quadrática (p = 0,0140) as PST aos 21 dias. O sulfato de glucosamina demonstrou um efeito quadrático (p < 0,05) sobre a albumina aos 42 dias, o menor valor foi encontrado para a inclusão de 0,06%, respectivamente. O sulfato de glucosamina reduziu linearmente (p = 0,0237) os cloretos aos 21 dias e aumentou linearmente (p = 0,0012) o cálcio total aos 42 dias. Verificouse interação (p < 0,05) dos sulfatos para cálcio total aos 21 dias, cálcio iônico aos 21 e 42 dias e para fósforo, cloretos e sódio aos 42 dias. A suplementação com os sulfatos de condroitina e de glucosamina na ração de frangos de corte favoreceram o sistema imune e o metabolismo de minerais, com aumento nas concentrações séricas de cálcio, fósforo e sódio.(AU)

Effects of autolyzed yeast on leukocyte oxidative metabolism and pneumonia occurrence in feedlot steers / Efeito da levedura autolisada no metabolismo oxidativo leucocitário e na ocorrência de pneumonia em novilhos terminados em confinamento

Although yeast supplementation has shown an immunostimulant effect in feedlot cattle, the question remains whether it influences the occurrence of the bovine respiratory disease complex (BRD) in feedlot cattle. Therefore, our objective was to evaluate whether dietary supplementation with autolyzed yeast affects the efficiency of blood phagocytes, reducing inflammation and the occurrence of BRD in feedlot cattle. A randomized experimental trial was conducted with whole steers with half Angus blood for 106 days: control (n=10): diet without yeast; Y4 (n=12): yeast diet (4g per animal per day); and Y7 (n=7): yeast diet (7g per animal per day). On Days 0, 14, 42, 70, and 105, blood count, leukocyte oxidative metabolism, serum haptoglobin, frequency of nasal secretion and orbital temperature were evaluated. On slaughter day, a lung evaluation was performed. On Days 42 and 70 of feedlot finishing, the treated animals showed increased leukocyte oxidative metabolism (D42 P=0.04; D70 P=0.02) compared to the control group. These animals had a lower frequency of mucopurulent nasal secretion, lower orbital temperature and reduced pneumonia occurrence than the treated groups (P=0.05) with less lung lesion severity (P=0.01), allowing us to infer that the autolyzed yeast improves blood phagocytic function and decreases the inflammation and BRD of feedlot steers, especially at a dose of 4g.

Embora a suplementação com leveduras tenha demonstrado efeito imunoestimulante em bovinos, permanece-se a dúvida se ela influencia na ocorrência do complexo doença respiratória bovina (CDRB) em bovinos confinados. Portanto, objetivou-se avaliar se a suplementação dietética com levedura autolisada influencia a eficiência de fagócitos sanguíneos, reduzindo inflamações e a ocorrência de CDRB em bovinos confinados. Realizou-se um ensaio experimental randomizado com 36 novilhos inteiros 1/2 sangue Angus por 106 dias: controle (n=10): dieta sem levedura; Y4 (n=12): dieta com levedura (4g por animal por dia); e Y7 (n=7): dieta com levedura (7g por animal por dia). Nos dias 0, 14, 42, 70 e 105, hemograma, metabolismo oxidativo de leucócitos, haptoglobina sérica, frequência de secreção nasal e temperatura orbital foram avaliados. No dia do abate, foi realizada avaliação pulmonar. Nos dias 42, e 70 de terminação em confinamento, os animais tratados apresentaram aumento do metabolismo oxidativo dos leucócitos (D42 P=0,04; D70 P=0,02) em relação ao grupo controle. Esses animais apresentaram menor frequência de secreção nasal mucopurulenta, menor temperatura orbital, menor ocorrência de pneumonias (P=0,05) com menor gravidade das lesões pulmonares (P=0,01), permitindo inferir que a levedura autolisada na dieta melhorou a eficiência dos fagócitos sanguíneos, reduzindo inflamações e a ocorrência de CDRB, especialmente na dosagem de 4g.

The Influence of porcine parity on colostrum cytokine levels and their passive transfer to piglets / A influência da paridade suína na diferença dos níveis de citocinas no colostro e na transferência passiva para leitões

The limited ability of newborn piglets to produce cytokines may influence lymphocyte development and response to antigen exposure. As a result, colostrum intake is crucial because it contains nutrients that contribute to immune system development in piglets. Our goal was to investigate the effect of sow parity on the transfer of maternal cytokines to nursing piglets. Sixty piglets from nine sows were divided into six groups: piglets from gilts or sows kept with their dams and allowed to suckle normally; piglets from gilts or sows having their dams exchanged and then allowed to suckle normally; piglets from gilts or sows isolated from their dams and bottle-fed a commercial milk replacer formula for pigs. All piglets remained in the diet groups for 24 hours after birth. Concentrations of cytokines in colostrum and serum of gilt/ sows and serum of piglets were then evaluated. The 13 evaluated cytokines had higher concentrations in colostrum and serum of sows than in gilts. Concentrations of GM-CSF, IFNγ, IL-1α, IL-1ß, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18, and TNFα were higher in piglets suckling sows. Piglets that received commercial formula showed higher concentrations of the cytokines IL1-RA and IL-8 than piglets fed colostrum. This outcome can influence piglets' development into adulthood. In short, our findings demonstrated that maternal parity influenced colostrum cytokine composition and its maternal transfer patterns.(AU)

A capacidade limitada dos leitões recém-nascidos de produzir citocinas pode influenciar o desenvolvimento de linfócitos e a resposta à exposição ao antígeno. Portanto, a ingestão de colostro é importante porque contém nutrientes, que contribuem para o desenvolvimento do sistema imunológico do leitão. O objetivo do estudo foi investigar o efeito da paridade da porca na transferência de citocina materna para leitões lactentes. Sessenta leitões de nove porcas foram divididos em seis grupos: leitões de marrãs/porcas mantidas com suas próprias mães e amamentadas normalmente; leitões de marrãs/porcas que foram trocados de mães e amamentados normalmente; leitões de marrãs/porcas que foram isolados das mães e alimentados com mamadeira com substituto do leite para suínos. Os leitões permaneceram nos grupos por 24 horas após o nascimento. Foram avaliadas as concentrações de citocinas no colostro e plasma das marrãs/porcas e no plasma dos leitões. O colostro e o plasma das porcas apresentaram maiores concentrações das 13 citocinas analisadas do que as marrãs. No mesmo sentido, as concentrações de GM-CSF, IFNγ, IL-1α, IL-1ß, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18 e TNFα foram significantemente maiores nos leitões que mamaram o colostro de porcas. Os leitões que receberam fórmula comercial apresentaram, em especial, concentrações das citocinas IL1-RA e IL-8 superiores aos leitões amamentados com colostro. Isso pode influenciar o desenvolvimento até a fase adulta. Portanto, nossos dados demonstraram que a paridade materna influenciou a composição das citocinas do colostro, bem como as características das citocinas na transferência materna.(AU)

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

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

Distúrbios hidroeletrolíticos no hipoadrenocorticismo primário agudo em cães: Uma revisão / Hydroelectrolytic disorders in acute primary hypoadrenocorticism in dogs: A review

O hipoadrenocorticismo canino é uma endocrinopatia caracterizada, na sua forma mais comum, pela deficiência de glicocorticoides e mineralocorticoides. Pacientes não tratados podem desenvolver a forma aguda da doença (crise addisoniana), apresentação grave com risco de óbito, caso não sejam realizadas as intervenções adequadas. Entre as alterações apresentadas estão: distúrbios eletrolíticos (como hiponatremia, hipercalemia, hiperfosfatemia e hipercalcemia), desequilíbrio hídrico (desidratação e choque hipovolêmico) e acidobásico. Fluidoterapia intravenosa adequada é a base do manejo inicial da crise addisoniana, que irá reestabelecer o volume intravascular e hidratação, reduzindo a concentração sérica de fósforo e potássio, a acidose lática, a azotemia pré-renal e a acidose metabólica. A reposição de glicocorticoides também contribui para a normalização dessas alterações. Entre as possíveis complicações do tratamento está a mielinólise pontina, decorrente de aumento rápido na concentração sérica de sódio. Diante disso, o conhecimento dos distúrbios associados à essa endocrinopatia auxilia na suspeição e manejo adequado da doença.(AU)

Canine hypoadrenocorticism is an endocrinopathy characterized, in its most common form, by glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid deficiency, often resulting from immune-mediated destruction of the adrenal glands. Untreated patients may develop the acute form of the disease (Addisonian crisis), a severe presentation with a risk of death if appropriate interventions are not performed. Among the changes presented are: electrolyte disorders (such as hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia and hypercalcemia), water imbalance (dehydration and hypovolemic shock) and acid-base disorder. Adequate intravenous fluid therapy is the basis for the initial management of Addisonian crisis, which will restore intravascular volume and hydration, reducing serum phosphorus and potassium concentrations, lactic acidosis, pre-renal azotemia and metabolic acidosis. Glucocorticoid replacement also contributes to the normalization of these changes. Among the possible complications of the treatment is pontine myelinolysis, resulting from a rapid increase in serum sodium concentration. In view of this, knowledge of the disorders associated with this endocrinopathy helps in the suspicion and adequate management of the disease.(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.

Natural association between bovine leukemia virus and reproductive infectious diseases

Background: Enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) is a widespread infectious disease caused by the bovine leukemia virus (BLV), which results in immune system dysfunction. The resulting immunosuppression may lead to an increased prevalence of other diseases. Dairy cows infected have altered immune function associated with decreased milk production and shortened lifespan and decreased immune response to immunization. BLV infection, however, is often asymptomatic, so any connection between subclinical infection and common reproductive diseases remains unknown. This study aimed to describe the relationship between naturally occurring subclinical BLV and infectious reproductive diseases seroconversion in the field. Materials, Methods & Results: The diseases investigated included Bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD), Bovine alfaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1), Bovine gammaherpesvirus 4 (BoHV-4), Chlamydiosis, Leptospirosis, Brucellosis and Neosporosis in dairy cattle. Six hundred fifty-five sera samples from the northern and south-central regions of Uruguay, from asymptomatic female Holstein and Holstein crosses without a history of vaccination against reproductive diseases were processed using reference diagnostic methods (Seronautalization, ELISA, MAT, Rose Bengal Plate test). The seroprevalence of BLV was 20.0%. Seroprevalence of reproductive diseases BVD, BoHV-1 and BoHV-4 were 99.3%, 41.2% and 27.3% of the populations, respectively, and the total seroprevalence of Leptospirosis, bovine Neospora caninum and Chlamydiosis were 19.8%, 29.8% and 33.0% respectively. The results revealed positive associations between naturally contracted BLV and the presence of antibodies against BoHV-1 (P = 0.002), as well as between naturally contracted BLV and presence of antibodies against Leptospira spp. (P = 0.028). Discussion: BLV infection can impact innate and adaptive immune system cells and alter the proper functioning of uninfected cells. BLV infection may also induce changes in the complex balance of cytokine expression, cell proliferation, and programmed cell death in T- and B-lymphocytes, which is critical for immune competence and effective response to infectious challenges. The progression of BLV infection has a substantial effect on host defense mechanisms. Indeed, lowmagnitude serologic responses to a commercial foot-and-mouth disease vaccine and a J5 Escherichia coli vaccine have been observed. These results are supported by recent trial studies showing a reduced immune response to vaccination against BoHV-1 and Leptospira spp. in asymptomatic animals infected with BLV. These are 2 of the most prevalent infectious reproductive diseases in cattle worldwide, and our results provide evidence that a link between BLV and susceptibility to these diseases may exist. Although there is evidence of the co-occurrence of these diseases, it remains unknown whether there is a direct or indirect effect of BLV on infertility, embryonic loss, or abortion. Another possibility is that natural infection with these reproductive pathogens (BoHV-1, Leptospira, or others) promotes BLV expression, negatively affecting the farms where these pathogens are endemic. Considering the high seroprevalence of BLV in dairy herds in North and South America where the infection is endemic, it was explored BLV's role as an immunosuppressant by quantifying its co-occurrence with diseases that affect reproductive performance in breeding herds. Future work should clarify the role of BLV and the co-occurring pathogens in causing infertility or abortions.

Ganoderma Lucidum Extract Modulates Cecal Microbiota Community in Broilers under Dextran Sulfate Sodium Challenge During the Starter Phase

In this study, we investigated the effects of Ganoderma lucidum extract (GLE) supplementation on the cecal microbiota of broilers challenged with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) during the starter phase. A total of 32 one-day-old, unsexed broiler chicks were randomly divided into four dietary treatments with eight birds per treatment and reared individually for 14 days (n = 8). The diet treatments were: non-DSS challenge, DSS challenge only, DSS challenge plus 0.5 mL/L GLE, and DSS challenge plus 1 mL/L GLE. The results showed that DSS challenge plus 0.5 mL GLE alleviated inflammatory gene expression in the duodenum of broilers (p≤0.01). The alpha diversity of bacterial species in the cecal digesta increased in the group treated with DSS plus 1 mL/L GLE compared with the DSS challenge-only group (p≤0.01). Principal component analysis and principal coordinate analysis indicated distinct clusters between groups treated with DSS-only and DSS plus GLE (0.5 and 1 mL/L). The abundance of the genera Ruminiclostridium 9, Enterococcus, and Sellimonas increased in the group treated with DSS plus GLE (0.5 and 1 mL/L) compared with the other groups (p≤0.01). Comparative microbial function analysis demonstrated that the immune system was promoted in the group treated with DSS plus GLE (0.5 and 1 mL/L) compared to the DSS challenge-only group (p≤0.001). These results demonstrated that GLE supplementation can modulate the cecal microbial community of broilers under DSS challenge during the starter phase.(AU)

The in vitro effects of n-3 fatty acids on immune response regulation of bovine ex vivo endometrial explants / Os efeitos in vitro dos ácidos graxos n-3 na regulação da resposta imune de explantes endometriais bovinos ex vivo

Fatty acids are considered metabolic intermediaries, although new facts indicate they also work as signaling molecules with different roles in the immune response. Based on that, in this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and α-linolenic acid (LNA) in ex vivo bovine endometrial explants. For this, two groups were formed: (1) LPS-challenged and (2) control, both to evaluate the accumulation of proinflammatory cytokines as interleukin 1ß (IL1B) and interleukin 6 (IL6). To develop the study, bovine female reproductive tracts from non-pregnant Angus heifers without evidence of reproductive diseases were selected. Endometrial explants were processed and treated for 24 h with EPA, DHA, and LNA in five different concentrations (0µM, 50µM, 100 µM, 200µM and 400 µM) and then, challenged with LPS for 24 h. Supernatants were collected to evaluate the concentration of IL1B and IL6 by ELISA. Explants treated with EPA from control groups reduced the concentrations of ILB (200µM) and IL6 (400 µM), and IL6 (50 µM; 100 µM) from the LPS-challenged group. DHA decreased the accumulation of IL1B and IL6 at 200 µM on explants from the LPS-challenged group, and 200 µM reduced IL6 from the control group. In contrast, explants treated with LNA only reduced the accumulation of IL1B to 400µM (from both groups). In conclusion, the EPA acid is the best anti-inflammatory option to decrease the concentration of both pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL1B and IL6) from LPS-challenged and control groups in bovine endometrial explants; while LNA evidence to be the last option to promote an anti-inflammatory response.(AU)

Os ácidos graxos são considerados intermediários metabólicos, embora novos fatos indiquem que eles também atuem como moléculas sinalizadoras com diferentes papéis na resposta imune. Dessa forma, este estudo investigou os efeitos anti-inflamatórios de ácidos graxos poliinsaturados n-3 (PUFAs) como ácido eicosapentaenóico (EPA), ácido docosahexaenóico (DHA) e ácido α-linolênico (LNA) em explantes endometriais ex vivo de bovinos. Para tal, o experimento foi divido em dois grupos: (1) Desafiado-LPS e (2) Controle, para que então pudesse avaliar o acúmulo de citocinas pró-inflamatórias como interleucina 1ß (IL1B) e interleucina 6 (IL6). Foram selecionados tratos reprodutivos de fêmeas bovinas de novilhas Angus não prenhes sem evidência de doenças reprodutivas. Explantes endometriais foram processados e tratados por 24h com EPA, DHA e LNA em cinco concentrações diferentes (0µM, 50µM, 100 µM, 200µM e 400 µM) e, em seguida, desafiados com LPS por mais 24h. Os sobrenadantes foram colhidos para avaliar a concentração de IL1B e IL6 pelo teste de ELISA. Os explantes tratados com EPA dos grupos de controle reduziram as concentrações de ILB (200 µM) e IL6 (400 µM) e no grupo desafiado com LPS houve redução das concentrações de IL6 (50 µM; 100 µM). Nos explantes do grupo desafiado com LPS, o DHA diminuiu o acúmulo de IL1B e IL6 nas concentrações de 200 µM, e no grupo controle reduziu IL6 nas concentrações de 200 µM, enquanto os explantes tratados com LNA reduziram apenas o acúmulo de IL1B a 400 µM (de ambos os grupos). Em conclusão, o ácido EPA provou ser a melhor opção anti-inflamatória para diminuir a concentração de ambas as citocinas pró-inflamatórias (IL1B e IL6) de grupos desafiados com LPS e controle em explantes endometriais bovinos; enquanto o LNA evidencia ser a opção menos viável para promover uma resposta anti-inflamatória.(AU)