Sustained PGC-1α2 or PGC-1α3 expression induces astrocyte dysfunction and degeneration.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) transcriptional coactivators are key regulators of energy metabolism-related genes and are expressed in energy-demanding tissues. There are several PGC-1α variants with different biological functions in different tissues. The brain is one of the tissues where the role of PGC-1α isoforms remains less explored. Here, we used a toxin-based mouse model of Parkinson's disease (PD) and observed that the expression levels of variants PGC-1α2 and PGC-1α3 in the nigrostriatal pathway increases at the onset of dopaminergic cell degeneration. This increase occurs concomitant with an increase in glial fibrillary acidic protein levels. Since PGC-1α coactivators regulate cellular adaptive responses, we hypothesized that they could be involved in the modulation of astrogliosis induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Therefore, we analysed the transcriptome of astrocytes transduced with expression vectors encoding PGC-1α1 to 1α4 by massively parallel sequencing (RNA-seq) and identified the main cellular pathways controlled by these isoforms. Interestingly, in reactive astrocytes the inflammatory and antioxidant responses, adhesion, migration, and viability were altered by PGC-1α2 and PGC-1α3, showing that sustained expression of these isoforms induces astrocyte dysfunction and degeneration. This work highlights PGC-1α isoforms as modulators of astrocyte reactivity and as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of PD and other neurodegenerative disorders.

Effect of protein supplementation on yield and milk composition of F1 Holstein x Zebu cows kept in deferred pasture of brachiaria grass / [Efeito da suplementação de proteína na produção e na composição do leite de F1 vacas Holandês x Zebu mantidas em pasto diferido de capim-braquiária]

The objective of this study was to evaluate different supplementation strategies concentrated to F1 Holstein x Zebu lactating cows managed in deferred signal grass pasture on the yield and composition of milk and body weight gain. Thirty six F1 Holstein x Zebu cows with an average lactation period of 267 ± 10 days, mean body weight of 548 ± 19kg were used following a completely randomized design in a 4 x 5 factorial scheme, being four feeding strategies and five days under evaluation. The treatments consisted of four nutritional strategies: deferred pasture as a source of roughage without supplementation (PDSS); deferred pasture as a source of roughage with protein supplement offer (PDCS); deferred pasture supplemented with 15 kilos of corn silage (natural base) + 1,200 grams of protein supplement (PDSP) and corn silage (ad libitum) + 700 grams of protein supplement (SMP). There was no interaction (P> 0.05) between the nutritional plans and days under evaluation for any of the variables. It was found that cows fed SMP showed milk production 26.06% higher than the other nutritional plans (mean of 11.46kg/day). F1 Holstein/Zebu cows handled in deferred pasture in a traditional way supplemented with protein maintains milk yield.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar diferentes planos nutricionais para vacas F1 Holandês/Zebu mantidas em pasto diferido de capim-braquiária sobre a produção e a composição do leite e no ganho em peso corporal. Foram utilizadas 36 vacas F1 Holandês/Zebu com período médio de lactação de 267 ± 10 dias, peso corporal médio de 548 ± 19kg, seguindo o delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 4 x 5, sendo quatro estratégias de alimentação e cinco dias em avaliação. Os tratamentos consistiram de quatro planos nutricionais: pasto diferida como fonte de forragem sem suplementação (PDSS); pastagem diferida como fonte de forragem com oferta de suplemento de proteico (PDCS); pasto diferido suplementado com 15 quilos de silagem de milho (base natural) + 1.200 gramas de suplemento proteico (PDSP) e silagem de milho (ad libitum) + 700 gramas de suplemento de proteína (SMP). Verificou-se que as vacas alimentadas com SMP apresentaram produção de leite 26,06% superior aos demais planos nutricionais (média de 11,46kg/dia). Vacas F1 Holandês/Zebu tratadas em pastagem diferida de maneira tradicional, suplementada com proteína, mantêm o rendimento de leite.(AU)

Effects of short-term feed restriction on the physiological parameters and metabolites of F1 Holstein x Zebu cows in different stages of lactation / [Efeitos da restrição alimentar de curto prazo sobre os parâmetros fisiológicos e metabólicos de vacas F1 Holstein x Zebu em diferentes estágios da lactação]

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different nutritional plans on the productive, physiological and metabolic parameters of F1 ½ Holstein x ½ Zebu cows in different stages of lactation. Sixty lactating cows were allotted to a completely randomized 5 x 3 factorial design with five feed allowances and three lactation periods. The dry matter intake, milk yield and heart rate were reduced by 5.69kg, 2.41kg and 10.36 beats/min (morning) and 10.25 beats/min (afternoon) for each 1% feed restriction, respectively. There was no difference in the concentration of glucose, total protein, albumin, cholesterol and non-esterified fatty acids for cows subjected to different feed allowances, with means of 95.25, 7.98, 2.95, 121.68 and 0.45mg/dL, respectively. Feed restriction of up to 2.50% BW is a cost reduction strategy that does not alter milk yield, regardless of the stage of lactation.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de diferentes planos nutricionais sobre as características produtivas, fisiológicas e metabólicas de vacas F1 ½ Holandês x ½ Zebu. Foram utilizadas 60 vacas em lactação, seguindo-se o delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 5 x 3, com cinco níveis de oferta de dieta e três períodos de lactação. À medida que se aumentou 1% na restrição da oferta da dieta, houve redução linear de 5,69kg no consumo de matéria seca pelos animais, 2,41kg na produção de leite, bem como de 10,36bat/min (manhã) e 10,25 bat/min (tarde) na frequência cardíaca dos animais. Não houve diferença para a concentração de glicose, proteínas totais, albumina, colesterol e NEFA com a restrição na oferta da dieta dos animais, sendo a média de 95,25, 7,98, 2,95, 121,68 e 0,45mg/dL, respectivamente. Recomenda-se a restrição de até 2,50% de peso corporal como estratégia de redução dos custos em todos os estágios em lactação, visando não alterar, economicamente, a produção de leite.(AU)

Caracterização fenotípica de vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu de diferentes bases maternas / [Phenotypic characterization of Holsteins x Zebu F1 cows from different maternal bases]

Caracterizaram-se fêmeas F1 Holandês x Zebu de diferentes bases maternas quanto às pelagens, despigmentações e características morfométricas. Foram utilizadas 266 fêmeas F1, progênies do cruzamento de 26 touros da raça Holandesa com fêmeas de composição genética zebuínas: Gir, Nelore, Guzonel, Nelogir. Foram aplicadas análise de distribuição de frequência para características qualitativas e medidas de dispersão e tendência central para características morfométricas, e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. Acima de 60,0% dos animais foram de pelagem preta. As vacas que tiveram origem na raça Gir apresentaram comprimento de cabeça 2,8cm maior (P<0,05) que as fêmeas da raça Nelore. O comprimento da orelha variou (P<0,05) conforme a base materna utilizada. As vacas com genes da raça Nelore são 5,0cm mais altas (P<0,05). O perímetro torácico foi a característica morfométrica que teve correlação fenotípica de elevada magnitude com o peso, acima de 0,70, para as fêmeas das bases maternas Gir, Nelore e Nelogir. A pelagem não é indicativa da base materna utilizada. As vacas F1 de base materna Gir tiveram estrutura corporal menor que as fêmeas que portam genes da raça Nelore.(AU)

F1 Holstein x Zebu females from different maternal bases were characterized regarding coat, depigmentation and morphometric characteristics. A total of 266 F1 female progenies from the crossbreeding of 26 Holstein bulls with females of Zebu genetic composition were used: Gir, Nellore, Guzonel, Nellogir. Frequency distribution analysis was applied for qualitative characteristics and dispersion measures and central tendency for morphometric characteristics, and means were compared by Tukey test at 5% probability. Over 60.0% of the animals had a black coat. The cows that originated from the Gir breed had a head length of 2.8cm (P<0.05) higher than the Nellore females. Ear length varied (P<0.05) according to the maternal base used. Cows with Nelore genes were 5.0cm taller (P<0.05). The thoracic perimeter was the morphometric characteristic that had a high magnitude phenotypic correlation with weight, above 0.70, for the females of the Gir, Nellore and Nellogir maternal bases. The coat is not indicative of the maternal base used. F1 Gir-based cows had a smaller body structure than females with Nellore genes.(AU)

Nutritional, behavioral and performance parameters of F1 Holstein x Zebu cows at different lactation stages / [Parâmetros nutricionais, comportamento ingestivo e desempenho de vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu em diferentes estádios da lactação]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the different lactation stages of F1 Holstein x Zebu cows on intake and digestibility of nutrients, nitrogen use efficiency, feeding behavior and performance. Thirty-six F1 Holstein × Zebu cows with initial body weight (BW) of 482±43kg were used. The early, mid and late lactation stages were characterized after 50±13, 111.5±11.75 and 183.0±17.5 days in milk, respectively. A completely randomized design with three lactation stages and 12 cows in each treatment group was used. Dry matter intake (P=0.01) was higher in late lactation. Milk yield (P<0.01) was 24.17% higher in early lactation than in other stages. Body weight was lowest in mid-lactation cows (465.63kg; P<0.01). The feed efficiency was 23.36% higher in early lactation than in other stages (0.82kg of milk/kg of DM). F1 Holstein x Zebu cows have increased dry matter intake in late lactation. Milk yield and feed efficiency in early lactation were benefited by changes in feeding behavior, such as increased rumination time.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os diferentes estágios de lactação de vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu quanto ao consumo e à digestibilidade de nutrientes, à eficiência no uso de nitrogênio, ao comportamento ingestivo e ao desempenho. Trinta e seis vacas F1 Holandês × Zebu, com peso corporal inicial (PC) de 482±43kg, foram utilizadas. Os estágios inicial, médio e final da lactação foram caracterizados após 50±13, 111,5±11,75 e 183,0±17,5 dias de lactação, respectivamente. O arranjo experimental adotado foi o delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com três fases de lactação e 12 vacas em cada grupo de tratamento. O consumo de matéria seca (P=0,01) foi maior no período final da lactação. Na fase inicial da lactação, a produção de leite (P<0,01) foi maior em 24,17% em comparação às demais fases. Na fase intermediária da lactação, as vacas apresentaram menor peso corporal (465,63kg; P<0,01) em relação às demais fases. A eficiência alimentar foi maior em 23,36% na fase inicial da lactação (0,82kg de leite/kg de MS). Vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu aumentam o consumo de matéria seca no período final da lactação. A produção de leite e a eficiência alimentar no início da lactação foram favorecidas por mudanças no comportamento ingestivo, como o aumento do tempo de ruminação.(AU)

Análise termográfica aplicada na produção de calor corporal de vacas F1 HxZ manejadas em diferentes microclimas / Thermographic analysis applied to body heat production of F1 HxZ cows managed in different microclimates

Avaliou-se a produção de calor corporal de vacas F1 HxZ manejadas em diferentes microclimas. Foram avaliadas 48 vacas, divididas em três grupos, manejadas em pastos e microclimas diferentes. Cada grupo foi subdividido em três grupos de suplementação fornecida durante a ordenha. Os registros termográficos dos flancos direito e esquerdo ocorreram com os animais a pasto. As temperaturas do olho e retal foram mensuradas após a ordenha. O ITGU caracterizou sinal de perigo para o microclima 1 no período da tarde (81,7) e para o microclima 2 nos turnos da manhã e da tarde (81,6 e 83,8, respectivamente). No microclima 2, houve diferença da temperatura do flanco direito para animais do grupo 2 em relação aos animais do grupo 3. A temperatura do flanco esquerdo foi superior para os animais do grupo 1. O microclima 1 foi caracterizado de conforto térmico, e o 2 de desconforto nos períodos da manhã e da tarde. A suplementação não influenciou na produção de calor dos animais. As médias da temperatura retal e do olho não diferiram entre os grupos, e a correlação apresentou valores baixos e moderados para os microclimas 1 e 2, respectivamente. A oferta de diferentes fontes de suplementação não interfere na produção de calor corporal de vacas F1 HxZ, mesmo quando fornecido em ambiente climático em que o ITGU é próximo a 84.(AU)

Body heat production of F1 HxZ cows managed in different microclimates was evaluated. We evaluated 48 cows, divided into two groups, managed in different pastures and microclimates. Each group was subdivided into three groups of supplementation provided during milking. The thermographic records of the right and left flanks occurred with the animals on the grass. Eye and rectal temperatures were measured after milking. The BGT had a danger signal for microclimate 1 in the afternoon (81.7) and microclimate 2 in the morning and afternoon shifts (81.6 and 83.8, respectively). In microclimate 2, there was difference in the temperature of the right flank for animals in group 2 in relation to the animals in group 3. The temperature of the left flank was higher for the animals in the group 1. Microclimate 1 was characterized by thermal comfort and 2 was discomfort in the morning and afternoon. Supplementation did not influence the heat production of the animals. Rectal and eye mean averages did not differ between groups and the correlation presented low and moderate values for microclimate 1 and 2, respectively. The supply of different sources of supplementation does not interfere with the production and body heat of F1 HxZ cows even when supplied in a climatic environment in which the BGT is close to 84.(AU)

Dietary nitrate attenuates high-fat diet-induced obesity via mechanisms involving higher adipocyte respiration and alterations in inflammatory status.

Emerging evidence indicates that dietary nitrate can reverse several features of the metabolic syndrome, but the underlying molecular mechanisms still remain elusive. The aim of the present study was to explore mechanisms involved in the effects of dietary nitrate on the metabolic dysfunctions induced by high-fat diet (HFD) in mice. Four weeks old C57BL/6 male mice, exposed to HFD for ten weeks, were characterised by increased body weight, fat content, increased fasting glucose and impaired glucose clearance. All these metabolic abnormalities were significantly attenuated by dietary nitrate. Mechanistically, subcutaneous primary mouse adipocytes exposed to palmitate (PA) and treated with nitrite exhibited higher mitochondrial respiration, increased protein expression of total mitochondrial complexes and elevated gene expression of the thermogenesis gene UCP-1, as well as of the creatine transporter SLC6A8. Finally, dietary nitrate increased the expression of anti-inflammatory markers in visceral fat, plasma and bone marrow-derived macrophages (Arginase-1, Egr-2, IL-10), which was associated with reduction of NADPH oxidase-derived superoxide production in macrophages. In conclusion, dietary nitrate may have therapeutic utility against obesity and associated metabolic complications possibly by increasing adipocyte mitochondrial respiration and by dampening inflammation and oxidative stress.

Substituition of urea for soybean meal and forced intake of minerals on the performance of growing crossbred calves / Substituição da ureia por farelo de soja e consumo forçado de minerais no desempenho de bezerros em crescimento

Forty eight crossbred calves, 24 males and 24 females, with weight and age of 203.6±3.7kg and 11.8±1.0 months were allotted to the following treatments: MT- mineral salt ad libitum and sugar cane mixed with 10g kg-1 mixture of urea and ammonium sulfate in a 9:1 proportion; MA - sugar cane mixed with 16g kg-1 of a concentrate of urea (550g kg-1), ammonium sulfate (60g kg-1) and minerals (390g kg-1); SU - sugar cane mixed with 50g kg-1 of a concentrate of soybean meal (830g kg-1), urea (52g kg-1) and minerals (118g kg-1) and MC - corn silage mixed with 10g kg-1 of a concentrate of urea (500g kg-1), ammonium sulfate (50g kg-1) and minerals (450g kg-1). Minerals mixed with sugar cane (MA) resulted in greater weight gain (0.258 x 0.188kg d-1) for similar intakes of DM (3.29 x 3.30kg d-1). Substitution of part of urea nitrogen in the MA by soybean meal (SU) resulted in greater ADG (0.538 x 0.258kg d-1), due to higher sugar cane intake (4.10 x 3.13kg d-1). ADG of calves receiving corn silage was greater (0.406 x 0.258kg d-1) than for calves receiving sugar cane.(AU)

Quarenta e oito bezerros cruzados, com peso vivo de 203,6±3,7kg e idade de 11,8±1,0 meses, sendo 24 machos e 24 fêmeas, foram distribuídos nos tratamentos: MT - sal mineral à vontade e cana-de-açúcar adicionada de 10g kg -1 de uma mistura de ureia e sulfato de amônio na proporção de 9:1; MA - cana-de-açúcar adicionada de 16g kg -1 de uma mistura de ureia (55%), sulfato de amônio (6%) e minerais (39%); SU - cana-de-açúcar adicionada de 50g kg -1 de uma mistura de farelo de soja (83%), ureia (5,2%) e minerais (11,8%); e MC - silagem de milho adicionada de 10g kg -1 de uma mistura de ureia (50%), sulfato de amônio (5%) e minerais (45%). Minerais misturados no volumoso resultaram em maior ganho de peso (0, 258 x 0,188kg/dia) com consumos semelhantes de matéria seca (3,29 x 3,30kg/dia). Substituição de parte do nitrogênio da ureia no MA pelo do farelo de soja resultou em aumento do ganho de peso (0,258 x 0,538kg/dia) e no consumo de cana (3,13 x 4,10kg/dia). Ganho de peso dos bezerros que receberam silagem de milho foi superior ao dos bezerros que receberam o MA (0,406 x 0,258kg/dia), devido ao maior consumo de silagem (4,71 x 3,13kg/dia).(AU)

The weight of nutrients: kynurenine metabolites in obesity and exercise.

Obesity ultimately results from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure. However, in addition to their bioenergetic value, nutrients and their metabolites can function as important signalling molecules in energy homeostasis. Indeed, macronutrients and their metabolites can be direct regulators of metabolism through their actions on different organs. In turn, target organs can decide to use, store or transform the incoming nutrients depending on their physiological context and in coordination with other cell types. Tryptophan-kynurenine metabolites are an example of a family of compounds that can serve as systemic integrators of energy metabolism by signalling to different cell types. These include adipocytes, immune cells and muscle fibres, in addition to the well-known effects of kynurenine metabolites on the central nervous system. In the context of energy metabolism, several of the effects elicited by kynurenic acid are mediated by the G-protein-coupled receptor, GPR35. As GPR35 is expressed in tissues such as the adipose tissue, immune cells and the gastrointestinal tract, this receptor could be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of obesity, diabetes and other metabolic diseases. In addition, metabolic disorders often coincide with states of chronic inflammation, which further highlights GPR35 as an integration node in conditions where inflammation skews metabolism. Defining the molecular interplay between different tissues in the regulation of energy homeostasis can help us understand interindividual variability in the response to nutrient intake and develop safe and efficient therapies to fight obesity and metabolic disease.

Small molecule PGC-1α1 protein stabilizers induce adipocyte Ucp1 expression and uncoupled mitochondrial respiration.

OBJECTIVE: The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α1 (PGC-1α1) regulates genes involved in energy metabolism. Increasing adipose tissue energy expenditure through PGC-1α1 activation is potentially beneficial for systemic metabolism. Pharmacological PGC-1α1 activators could be valuable tools in the fight against obesity and metabolic disease. Finding such compounds has been challenging partly because PGC-1α1 is a transcriptional coactivator with no known ligand-binding properties. While, PGC-1α1 activation is regulated by several mechanisms, protein stabilization is a crucial limiting step due to its short half-life under unstimulated conditions. METHODS: We designed a cell-based high-throughput screening system to identify PGC-1α1 protein stabilizers. Positive hits were tested for their ability to induce endogenous PGC-1α1 protein accumulation and activate target gene expression in brown adipocytes. Select compounds were analyzed for their effects on global gene expression and cellular respiration in adipocytes. RESULTS: Among 7,040 compounds screened, we highlight four small molecules with high activity as measured by: PGC-1α1 protein accumulation, target gene expression, and uncoupled mitochondrial respiration in brown adipocytes. CONCLUSIONS: We identify compounds that induce PGC-1α1 protein accumulation and show that this increases uncoupled respiration in brown adipocytes. This screening platform establishes the foundation for a new class of therapeutics with potential use in obesity and associated disorders.

Viabilidade econômica de vacas leiteiras F1 Holandês x Zebu com diferentes bases maternas e ordens de parto / Economic viability F1 Holstein x Zebu cows of dairy from different maternal bases and birth orders

Objetivou-se avaliar a viabilidade econômica de vacas F1 de Holandês x Zebu de diferentes bases maternas e ordens de parto. Foram utilizados dados do Campo Experimental da Epamig (Felixlândia-MG). Analisaram-se 406 lactações de vacas F1 H x Z de diferentes bases maternas. Estimaram-se a receita e os custos operacional efetivo, operacional total e custo total. As F1 Holandês x Gir tiveram médias de custos maiores (R$ 3582,30), seguidas pelas F1 Holandês x Nelogir (R$ 3448,06), e o menor foi das F1 Holandês x Nelore (R$ 3145,07). A receita total foi maior para as vacas F1 Holandês x Gir e F1 Holandês x Nelogir, com valores de R$ 4394,96 e R$ 4245,61, respectivamente, e a menor receita foi para F1 Holandês x Nelore, com valor de R$ 3976,12. O lucro foi de R$ 812, 65; R$ 797,54 e R$ 831,04 para as F1 filhas de base materna Gir, Nelogir e Nelore, respectivamente. Todas as bases maternas são viáveis economicamente e podem ser utilizadas no sistema de produção de leite e bezerros para venda. Todas as ordens de parto de Holandês x Zebu estudadas são viáveis economicamente.(AU)

The objective was to evaluate the economic viability of a milk production system of F1 Holstein x Zebu cows of different maternal bases and calving order. Lactations data of F1 Holtein x Zebu cows (n=406) of different maternal bases, from the experimental field of the EPAMIG at Felixlândia county (MG state, Brasil) were analyzed. Revenue, cost/effect of operation, total operating, and total cost have been estimated. F1 cows Holstein x Gir had averages of higher costs R$ 3582.30, followed by F1 cows Holstein x Nelogir R$ 3448.06; and the lowest was from cows F1 Holstein x Nellore with R$ 3145.07. The total revenue was higher for Holstein x Gir and Holstein x Nelogir with recipe values of R$ 4394.96 and R$ 4245.61 respectively, and the lowest value of R$ 3976.12 for Holstein x Nellore. The profits were R$812.65; R$ 797.54 and R$ 831.04 for animals of groups Holstein x Gir, Holstein x Nelogir and Holstein x Nellore respectively. All genetic groups are economically viable and can be used in the production of milk and calves for sale. All calving order of Holstein x Zebu studied are viable economically.(AU)

Parâmetros fisiológicos de vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu criadas em ambientes com e sem sombreamento / Physiological parameters of F1 Holstein X Zebu cows raised in environments with and without shading

Objetivou-se, com este estudo, caracterizar o efeito do microclima proporcionado por dois ambientes distintos, sobre as respostas fisiológicas de vacas F1 HxZ em fase de lactação, durante o verão. Foram avaliadas 34 vacas oriundas de quatro diferentes grupos genéticos F1 HxZ. Durante o período experimental, foram feitas medições diárias das variáveis ambientais: temperatura do ar, umidade relativa do ar e temperatura de globo negro, para cálculo dos valores de ITGU. Os parâmetros fisiológicos frequência respiratória, batimento cardíaco, temperatura de superfície corporal, temperatura retal e taxa de sudação foram obtidos às 7h e às 14 horas. A pesagem do leite foi feita semanalmente. Os animais F1 avaliados não apresentaram alterações fisiológicas, e não houve redução na produção láctea em função dos ambientes de criação. O ITGU atingiu valores considerados estressantes (87,7), porém os ambientes de criação não proporcionaram estresse nem redução na produção dos animais.(AU)

The objective of this study was to characterize the effect of microclimate provided by two distinct environments on the physiological responses of F1 HxZ cows lactating during the summer, where 34 cows were evaluated originating from 4 different genetic groups F1 HxZ. During the trial period, daily measurements of environmental variables were determined: dry bulb temperature, relative humidity and black globe temperature, to calculate the BGT values. The physiological parameters respiratory rate, heart rate, body surface temperature, rectal temperature, and sweat rate were obtained at 07:00 and 14:00h. Weighing of milk was done weekly. The F1 animals evaluated did not present physiological changes, nor was there a reduction in milk production as a function of breeding environments. The BGT reached levels considered stressful (87.7), but the breeding environments provided no stress or reduced production of animals.(AU)

Composição de ácidos graxos do queijo e leite de vacas alimentadas com casca de banana / Fatty acid composition of cheese and milk of cows fed with banana peel

Objetivou-se avaliar os níveis de casca de banana seca ao sol na dieta de vacas F1 Holandês x Zebu sobre o perfil de ácidos graxos do leite e do queijo minas frescal. Os tratamentos foram constituídos de 0, 15, 30, 45 e 60% de substituição da silagem de sorgo pela casca de banana. O delineamento experimental foi em dois quadrados latinos 5 x 5 simultâneos. As amostras de leite e queijo foram analisadas quanto ao perfil de ácidos graxos por cromatografia gasosa. Observou-se efeito quadrático para o somatório de ácidos graxos poli-insaturados do leite, com valor máximo no nível de 23,54% de substituição. Houve efeito linear decrescente para os ácidos graxos C15:0 iso e C16:0 iso. Os ácidos graxos heneicosanoico, linoleico, linoleico conjugado e araquidônico apresentaram efeito quadrático. Não houve efeito das dietas sobre os ácidos graxos no queijo. A substituição de até 60% da silagem de sorgo por casca de banana na dieta de vacas em lactação pode ser alternativa para produção e processamento do leite, quando se considera a melhora no valor nutricional da fração lipídica do leite e o aumento dos teores de ácido linoleico conjugado.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate the inclusion levels of dry banana peel in the sun in the diet of F1 Holstein x Zebu cows on the profile of fatty acids of milk and Minas fresh cheese. The diets were composed of 0, 15, 30, 45, and 60% replacement of sorghum silage by banana peel. The experimental design was Latin squares, simultaneous, 5 x 5. Samples of milk and cheese were analyzed for fatty acid composition by gas chromatography. Quadratic effect for the sum of milk polyunsaturated fatty acids, with the maximum level of 23,54% replacement. There was a decreasing linear effect for C15:0 iso fatty acids and C16: 0 iso. The heneicosanoic fatty acids, linoleic, conjugated linoleic and arachidonic presented quadratic effect. There was no effect of diets on fatty acids in cheese. Replacement of up to 60% of the sorghum silage of a banana peel in the diet of cows can be an alternative to milk production and processing when considering the improvement in the nutritional value of the milk lipid fraction and increase of the levels of conjugated linoleic acid.(AU)

Endometrial transcription of microbial molecular patterns receptors in Gyr and F1 Holstein x Gyr postpartum cows / Transcrição endometrial de receptores de padrões moleculares microbianos em vacas Gir e F1 Holandês x Gir após o parto

Zebu and Holstein x Zebu crossbred have low incidence of uterine infection when compared to Holstein cows. Resistance to uterine infections may be associated with the ability to recognize invading microorganisms. Endometrial transcription of microbial molecular patterns receptors has been investigated in the postpartum period of Holstein cows, but it is completely unknown in Zebu or Holstein x Zebu cows. In this study, 9 Gyr and 12 F1 Holstein x Gyr cows were submitted to endometrial biopsies at the first and seventh days postpartum, with the objective to measure transcription levels of toll-like receptors (TLRs) 1/6, 2, 4, 5, and 9; nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors 1 and 2; and coreceptors cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14) and myeloid differentiation protein-2 (MD-2). There was a significant (P<0.05) decrease in transcription of TLR5 in Gyr, and an increase in transcription of TLR9 in F1 cows, between the first and seventh day postpartum. Both groups had low incidences of uterine infections up to 42 days postpartum. Uterine involution completed at 27.7 ± 10.1 and 25.1 ± 4.7 days postpartum for Gyr and F1 cows, respectively. In Gyr cows, higher transcription levels of TLR1/6 and NOD1 correlated to a longer period required for uterine involution. In F1 cows, lower levels of TLR1/6, TLR2 and NOD2 correlated to a longer period required for uterine involution. In conclusion, some pathogen recognition receptors associated significantly with the time required for uterine involution in Gyr and F1 cows.(AU)

Vacas Zebu e mestiças Holandês x Zebu apresentam baixas incidências de infecções uterinas quando comparadas às Holandesas. A resistência às infecções uterinas pode estar relacionada com a capacidade de reconhecimento dos microrganismos invasores. A transcrição endometrial de receptores de padrões moleculares microbianos tem sido investigada em vacas Holandesas recém-paridas, porém ainda é desconhecida em vacas Zebu e mestiças Holandês x Zebu. No presente estudo, nove vacas Gir e 12 F1 Holandês x Gir foram submetidas a biópsias endometriais no primeiro e no sétimo dia após o parto, com o objetivo de mensurar os níveis de transcrição gênica dos receptores tipo Toll (TLRs) 1/6, 2, 4, 5 e 9; receptores tipo NOD 1 e 2; e dos coreceptores CD14 e MD-2. Houve diminuição significativa (P < 0,05) do nível de transcrição de TLR5 em vacas Gir e aumento da transcrição de TLR9 em vacas F1, entre o primeiro e o sétimo dia após o parto. Os dois grupos apresentaram baixas incidências de infecções uterinas até 42 dias pós-parto. O período de involução uterina foi de 27,7 ± 10,1 e 25,1 ± 4,7 dias pós-parto, para vacas Gir e F1, respectivamente. No grupo de vacas Gir, altos níveis de transcrição de TLR1/6 e NOD1 tiveram correlação significativa com o prolongamento do período de involução uterina. No grupo de vacas F1, baixos níveis de transcrição de TLR1/6, TLR2 e NOD2 foram associados a maiores períodos de involução uterina. Portanto, os níveis de transcrição endometrial de alguns receptores de padrões moleculares microbianos na primeira semana após o parto podem estar relacionados com o tempo requerido para ocorrência da involução uterina em vacas Gir e F1.(AU)

The role of epigenetic modifiers in extended cultures of functional hepatocyte-like cells derived from human neonatal mesenchymal stem cells.

The development of predictive in vitro stem cell-derived hepatic models for toxicological drug screening is an increasingly important topic. Herein, umbilical cord tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hnMSCs) underwent hepatic differentiation using an optimized three-step core protocol of 24 days that mimicked liver embryogenesis with further exposure to epigenetic markers, namely the histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA), the cytidine analogue 5-azacytidine (5-AZA) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). FGF-2 and FGF-4 were also tested to improve endoderm commitment and foregut induction during Step 1 of the differentiation protocol, being HHEX expression increased with FGF-2 (4 ng/mL). DMSO (1%, v/v) when added at day 10 enhanced cell morphology, glycogen storage ability, enzymatic activity and induction capacity. Moreover, the stability of the hepatic phenotype under the optimized differentiation conditions was examined up to day 34. Our findings showed that hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) acquired the ability to metabolize glucose, produce albumin and detoxify ammonia. Global transcriptional analysis of the HLCs showed a partial hepatic differentiation degree. Global analysis of gene expression in the different cells revealed shared expression of gene groups between HLCs and human primary hepatocytes (hpHeps) that were not observed between HepG2 and hpHeps. In addition, bioinformatics analysis of gene expression data placed HLCs between the HepG2 cell line and hpHeps and distant from hnMSCs. The enhanced hepatic differentiation observed was supported by the presence of the hepatic drug transporters OATP-C and MRP-2 and gene expression of the hepatic markers CK18, TAT, AFP, ALB, HNF4A and CEBPA; and by their ability to display stable UGT-, EROD-, ECOD-, CYP1A1-, CYP2C9- and CYP3A4-dependent activities at levels either comparable with or even higher than those observed in primary hepatocytes and HepG2 cells. Overall, an improvement of the hepatocyte-like phenotype was achieved for an extended culture time suggesting a role of the epigenetic modifiers in hepatic differentiation and maturation and presenting hnMSC-HLCs as an advantageous alternative for drug discovery and in vitro toxicology testing.

Efeito da composição genética nas caraterísticas de conformação em equinos / Effect of genetic composition in conformation traits in horse

Objetivou-se verificar o efeito da composição genética nas características morfológicas em equinos com diferentes objetivos de seleção. Foram utilizados 234 equinos sendo 136 da raça Mangalarga Marchador e 90 entre mestiços e puros Quarto de Milha utilizados em vaquejada. Foram mensuradas as medidas lineares de altura na cernelha, na garupa, no dorso, no costado e na cintura pélvica; os comprimentos de corpo, de cabeça, de pescoço, de dorsolombo, de garupa, de espádua, de braço, de antebraço, de canela anterior, de quartela anterior, de coxa, de perna, de canela posterior e de quartela posterior; os perímetros de tórax, de cintura pélvica, de canela anterior e de canela posterior; as larguras de cabeça, de peito e de garupa. O peso corporal foi estimado por meio de fita métrica (em kg). Os ângulos mensurados foram escápulo-solo, escápulo-umeral, úmero-radial, metacarpo-falangiano, pelve-solo, pelve-femoral, fêmur-tíbio-patelar, tíbio-tarso-metatarsiano e metatarso-falangiano descritos. O modelo estatístico considerou os efeitos de sexo, raça e interação sexo*raça com as médias comparadas pleo teste SNK a 5% de significância. Houve interação sexo x raça para as todas as características de alturas e larguras, para as medidas de comprimento do pescoço, do dorsolombo, garupa, espádua, braço antebraço e canela anterior e para as angulações apenas a escápulo-umeral, enquanto a raça teve efeito para todas as medidas angulares (P<0,01) exceto a úmero-radial. Os autores conluíram que os animais das raças Mangalarga Marchador e Quarto de Milha são biótipos geneticamente diferentes em suas medidas lineares e angulares e que as diferenças observadas entre as raças podem estar associadas ao tipo de andamento e à funcionalidade atribuída a cada uma delas induzidas pela seleção.(AU)

This study aimed to verify the effect of the genetic conformation of the tarits in horses with different selection goals. In a total of 234 horses, 136 were from the Mangalarga Marchador breed and 90 were Quarter Horse crossed and pure used in vaquejada. The linear measurements of height at the withers, the rump, the back, on the side and pelvic girdle; the length as body, head, neck, backing sirloin, rump, shoulder, arm, forearm, fore cannon, fore pastern, thigh, leg, hind cannon and hind pastern; the chest perimeters of pelvis, fore hind cannon; the head width, chest and hip; and body weight estimated by measuring tape (kg) were recorded. The measured angles of joints were shoulder-floor, scapulohumeral, humerus-radial, metacarpal-phalangeal, pelvis-floor, pelvis-femoral, femoral-tibial-patellar, tibial-tarsal-metatarsal and metatarsal-phalangeal. The statistical model considered the effects of sex, race and sex x race interaction with means compared byt the SNK test at 5% significance level. There was sex x race interaction for all the features of heights and widths for the neck length measures, the back-loin, rump, shoulder, arm, forearm and fore cannon lenght and angulation just scapulohumeral while the race had effect for all angular measurements (P<0.01) except the radial-humeral. The authors concluded that animals of Mangalarga Marchador and Quarter are genetically different biotypes in their linear and angular measurements and the differences between races may be associated with the type of running and the functionality assigned to each induced selection.(AU)

Effects of bovine mammary gland biopsy and increased milking frequency on post-procedure udder health, histology, and milk yield.

Sixteen cows in early lactation were randomly distributed into two groups in order to evaluate the effects of mammary biopsies and increased milking frequency on tissue characteristics, post-biopsy udder health and histology. One group was milked twice a day (2×) starting on the 2nd day after calving, until 28 days in milk (DIM). The other group was milked four times a day (4×) from two to 21 DIM, and twice a day (2×) from 22 to 28 DIM. On days 2, 7, 14, 21, and 28 postpartum, one fragment of secretory tissue was collected from one mammary quarter at a time. Collections were alternated between the four mammary quarters per collection day. A total of 80 mammary tissue samples were collected. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of the tissues were conducted by histologic examination. Animal health was assessed by observation of feed intake behavior immediately after biopsy, and weight and body condition score before and one week after biopsy. Udder health was assessed daily from calving to 60 DIM with California Mastitis Test (CMT) and by noting alterations in the milk such as blood, milk clots, blood clots, clinical signs of mastitis. Milk composition and somatic cell count (SCC) were analyzed before and after the biopsies. Milk production was evaluated before biopsy, on the day of biopsy, and after the biopsy. An average of 10 fields at 40× magnification was obtained from each sample. There were no evident changes in mammary morphology as a result of milking two or four times/day at any of the evaluated time points. Biopsy wounds healed rapidly without infection. Intramammary bleeding and CMT alterations were observed in 96% and 75% of the biopsied mammary quarters, respectively. Clinical mastitis was diagnosed in 12% of the biopsied quarters. Different milking frequencies had no effect on the frequency and duration of post-biopsy alterations. Milk production decreased after biopsies done on days 2 for 2× and 4× groups, but it returned to pre-biopsy values within 1 day. Milk composition and SCC were affected transiently. Increased milking frequency did not influence udder health. Post-biopsy recovery was rapid and the procedure proved effective without damaging the cows' health.

Probability of pregnancy in beef heifers / Probabilidade de prenhez em novilhas de corte

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of initial weight, initial age, average daily gain in initial weight, average daily gain in total weight and genetic group on the probability of pregnancy in primiparous females of the Nellore, 1/2 Simmental + 1/2 Nellore, and 3/4 Nellore + 1/4 Simmental genetic groups. Data were collected from the livestock file of the Farpal Farm, located in the municipality of Jaíba, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The pregnancy diagnosis results (success = 1 and failure = 0) were used to determine the probability of pregnancy that was modeled using logistic regression by the Proc Logistic procedure available on SAS (Statistical..., 2004) software, from the regressor variables initial weight, average daily gain in initial weight, average daily gain in total weight, and genetic group. Initial weight (IW) was the most important variable in the probability of pregnancy in heifers, and 1-kg increments in IW allowed for increases of 5.8, 9.8 and 3.4% in the probability of pregnancy in Nellore, 1/2 Simmental + 1/2 Nellore and, 3/4 Nellore + 1/4 Simmental heifers, respectively. The initial age influenced the probability of pregnancy in Nellore heifers. From the estimates of the effects of each variable it was possible to determine the minimum initial weights for each genetic group. This information can be used to monitor the development of heifers until the breeding season and increase the pregnancy rate...

Objetivou-se avaliar a influência do peso inicial, idade inicial, ganho médio diário em peso inicial, ganho médio diário em peso total e grupo genético sobre a probabilidade de prenhez de fêmeas primíparas da raça Nellore, 1/2 Simental + 1/2 Nelore e 3/4 Nelore + 1/4 Simental. Os dados analisados foram do arquivo zootécnico da Fazenda Farpal, localizada no município de Jaíba, Minas Gerais. O resultado do diagnóstico de gestação (sucesso=1 e insucesso=0) foi utilizado para determinar a probabilidade de prenhez que foi modelada por meio de regressão logística pelo procedimento Logistic disponível no SAS, a partir das variáveis regressoras peso inicial, ganho médio diário em peso inicial, ganho médio diário em peso total e grupo genético. O peso inicial foi a variável de maior relevância na probabilidade de prenhez de novilhas e incrementos de 1,0kg no peso inicial possibilitaram acréscimos de 5,8; 9,8 e 3,4% na probabilidade de prenhez de novilhas Nelore, 1/2 Simental + 1/2 Nelore e 3/4 Nelore + 1/4 Simental, respectivamente. Entretanto o ganho médio diário em peso inicial e ganho médio diário em peso total não apresentaram efeito significativo na probabilidade de prenhez das novilhas. A idade inicial influenciou a probabilidade de prenhez das novilhas Nelore. A partir das estimativas dos efeitos de cada variável, foi possível determinar o peso inicial mínimo para cada grupo genético. Essa informação pode ser usada para monitorar o desenvolvimento de novilhas até a estação de monta e aumentar a taxa de prenhez...