Phase changes of tris(glycinato)chromium(III) monohydrate crystal systematically studied by thermal analyses, XRPD, FTIR, and Raman combined with ab initio calculations.

Tris(glycinato)chromium(III) monohydrate [Cr(C2H4NO2)3·H2O] crystals were grown through the slow solvent evaporation method. The crystals were studied by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy at room temperature. The assignments of vibration modes were performed using the Density Functional Theory (DFT). Thermal analyses (TGA, DTA, and DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman were used to study the phase changes on the crystals under high- and low-temperature conditions. Temperature-dependent XRPD measurements were carried out in the interval of 473-12 K. Several changes were observed in the patterns, like the appearance of new peaks and the disappearance of peaks occurring within 373-393 K due to water loss. In addition, the Raman measurements were performed in the 423-10 K interval. Several changes on the inter and intramolecular vibration bands during the cooling, such as decreasing bands' intensities, the appearance of vibration modes, and discontinuities on the modes' behavior, were observed. These spectral modifications occurred at about 370 K and within 120-220 K, thus, confirming that the crystals undergo two phase changes, one being structural and the other one conformational, respectively, at high- temperature and low-temperature conditions. Finally, thermal investigations corroborated the structural and vibrational results under high temperatures.

Influência da adiposidade durante a gestação de éguas da raça Crioula sobre o acúmulo de gordura em seus potros / Influence of adiposity during pregnancy of Crioulo mares on the fat accumulation in their foals

Este trabalho investigou a influência da adiposidade em éguas Crioulas gestantes sobre o peso e o acúmulo de gordura de seus potros do nascimento aos quatro meses de vida. Foram avaliadas 28 éguas Crioulas no terço final de gestação, divididas em dois grupos (normais e obesas) quanto ao peso, à circunferência de pescoço, à altura da crista do pescoço e à gordura subcutânea na base da cauda, bem como quanto à relação dessas medidas com as de seus potros, do parto aos 120 dias de idade. Os filhos de éguas obesas apresentaram maior deposição de gordura na base da cauda, no segundo mês (P<0,05), e na crista do pescoço (P=0,0022), no quarto mês de idade. Houve correlação positiva da altura da crista do pescoço da égua com o peso dos potros ao nascer (P=0,01; r= 0,54) e do peso corporal das éguas com gordura na base da cauda dos potros ao nascimento (P=0,03; r=0,49), além de forte associação entre gordura na base da cauda das éguas obesas com essa medida nos seus potros aos quatro meses (P=0,01; r=0,71). Essa diferença entre os grupos de potros quanto à adiposidade sugere que filhos de éguas obesas são mais propensos a acumular mais gordura já nos primeiros meses de vida.(AU)

This work investigated the influence of adiposity on pregnant Crioulo mares on the weight and fat deposition of their foals from birth to four months of life. Twenty-eight Crioulo mares were evaluated during the final third of gestation, divided into two groups (normal and obese) regarding weight, neck circumference, neck crest height and fat at the tail base, and the relation of these measurements with those of their foals from birth to 120 days old. The obese mares presented higher fat deposition at the tail base in the 2nd month (P< 0.05) and crest of the neck (P= 0.0022) in the 4th month of age. There was positive correlation between height of mare's neck crest and foal weight at birth (P= 0.01, r= 0.54) and body weight of mares between the fat at tail base of foals at birth (P= 0.03, r= 0.49), as well as strong association between fat at the tail base in obese mares with this measurement in their foals at 4 months (P= 0.01, r= 0.71). This difference of adiposity between groups suggests that obese mare's offspring are more likely to accumulate more fat in the first months of life.(AU)

Quality Improvement of Post-Thawed Stallion Epididymal Spermatozoa with Single Layer Centrifugation.

BACKGROUND: Epididymal sperm cryopreservation represents the ultimate option to preserve spermatozoa of valuable stallions. OBJECTIVE: The study aims to evalute whether single layer centrifugation (SLC) prior to cryopreservation or after post-thawing improves the quality of stallion epididymal sperm. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Epididymal sperms of stallions were harvested (N=20). Sperm samples were subjected to treatments: conventional centrifugation, SLC prior to cryopreservation (SLC-PC) or SLC post-thaw (SLC+). All samples were cryopreserved, thawed and evaluated. SLC+ were thawed, single layer cenrifuged and resuspended in freezing extender (SLC+F) or cooling extender (SLC+C). Total motility, progressive motility, morphology, mitochondrial functionality, membrane integrity and DNA integrity were evaluated. RESULTS: SLC-PC and SLC+F yielded higher total motility, while SLC+F yielded the highest progressive motility. Mitochondrial functionality was significantly higher in all SLC groups. Membrane integrity was higher in SLC-PC. The percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa was higher in SLC-PC and SLC+F. CONCLUSION: SLC prior to cryopreservation or post-thaw improves the quality of stallion epididymal spermatozoa. When SLC is performed post-thaw, freezing extender is the best medium to resuspend the pelleted semen.

High pressure Raman scattering of DL­isoleucine crystals and DFT calculations.

DL­isoleucine single crystals were grown by the slow evaporation method at ambient temperature. Their vibrational properties were studied at ambient temperature as a function of pressure by Raman scattering. At ambient conditions the mode assignment was done in terms of the Potential Energy Distribution (PED) through density functional theory calculations. Both nitrogen and neon were used as pressure transmitting media. The pressure-dependent investigation shows modifications in the Raman spectra recorded between 30 and 3200 cm-1 that were interpreted as phase transitions undergone by the crystal between 1.3 and 1.9 GPa and between 3.6 and 5.1 GPa. Finally, stress was simulated on the unit cell of the crystal from ambient up to 5.0 GPa.

The effects of xanthan gum on equine sperm quality during cooling storage / Efeitos de xantam gum em qualidade de esperma equino durante armazenamento resfriado

This study was designed to evaluate the possible benefits of adding xanthan gum to a standard extender for equine through in vitro analyzes of sperm quality. Semen was collected four times from five different stallions (n= 20 samples) and subjected to cooled storage under different conditions: control (only standard extender) and three different concentrations of xanthan gum (0.01%, 0.12%, and 0.25%) supplemented to the extenders. Sperm parameters, such as motility, mitochondrial functionality, and membrane, acrosome, and DNA integrity were measured after 0h, 24h, 48h, and 72h of sperm storage at 5ºC. Our observations indicated that sperm motility declined with longer cooling period with the 0.25% xanthan gum supplementation group compared with the control group. Other parameters, such as mitochondrial functionality and membrane and acrosome integrity also declined for all treatments during storage; however, no differences were observed between xanthan gum and control groups. DNA integrity did not significantly change during the storage. In conclusion, the addition of xanthan gum to equine semen extender is not harmful to the sperm structure, despite reducing the sperm motility.(AU)

Esse estudo foi desenvolvido para avaliar os possíveis benefícios de acrescentar xanthan gum a um extensor padrão através de analises in vitro de qualidade de esperma. Semen foi coletado quatro vezes de cinco garanhões diferentes (n = 20 amostras) e submetido a armazenamen to resfriado em diferentes condições: controle (apenas extensor padrão) e três diferentes concentrações de xanthan gum (0,01%, 0,12% e 0,25%) suplementado aos extensores. Parâmetros dos espermatozoides, como mobilidade, funcionamento mitocondrial e integridade de membranas, acrossomos e DNA forma medidos após 0h, 24h, 48h e 72h de armazenamento a 5oC. Nossas observações indicaram que motilidade reduziu com armazenamento resfriado prolongado no grupo de 0,25% de suplementação de xanthan gum comparado ao grupo controle. Outros parâmetros, como funcionalidade mitocondrial e integridade de membrana e acrossomos também reduziu em todos os tratamentos durante o armazenamento, no entanto não foram detectadas diferenças significativas entre grupos tratados e grupo controle. Integridade de DNA não mudou significativamente durante armazenamento. Em conclusão, a adição de xanthan gum a extensor de sêmen equino não é danosa à estrutura do espermatozoide apesar de reduzir motilidade.(AU)

Structural, vibrational and thermal studies on bis(l-glutaminato)copper(II).

Copper(II) complexes of amino acids have been widely studied as potentials medicines and dietary supplementation, so the knowledge about the metal-ligand sites, thermal stability and behavior of these complexes is an important subject of study. Although the Raman spectroscopy could help to elucidate the nature of the interactions into crystal there are only few information about vibrational study of this compound in the literature and no data depending on the temperature. In addition, there is no temperature-dependent X-ray diffraction study of this material. We report here Raman Spectroscopy and Powder X-ray Diffraction measurements, both as a function of temperature and as a way of studying the thermal stability of the material. After the synthesis of the sample and confirmation of its crystal structure by Powder X-ray Diffraction, Raman measurements were performed in the 70-3600 cm-1 spectral region as a function of temperature from 10 up to 300 K. Some peaks become more evident during the cooling, due to a decrease in width and an increase in intensity. There is a discontinuity in the wavenumbers evolution around 110 K, that should be associated with a conformation of the structure. Optimized geometry and vibrational frequencies were obtained by means of Density Functional Theory and for the first time the analysis of the vibrational modes was done in terms of the Potential Energy Distribution. X-ray diffraction measurements as a function of temperature and Rietveld refinement showed discontinuities in the lattice parameters and degradation around 493 K (at air atmosphere) and 513 K (under vacuum). These results were corroborated by the thermal analysis which indicates that the compound is stable up to 493 K.

"Cell ELISA" como ferramenta auxiliar no controle da adenite equina / "Cell ELISA" as an auxiliary tool for the control of equine adenitis

Este trabalho relata o desenvolvimento e a avaliação de um ensaio imunoenzimático (ELISA) como ferramenta auxiliar no controle da adenite equina. Foi avaliada a presença de anticorpos anti-Streptococcus equi subsp. equi em equinos com doença clínica de garrotilho, portadores assintomáticos e potros vacinados. Equinos doentes demonstraram absorbâncias médias superiores (P<0,05) às médias observadas nas demais categorias examinadas. Equinos portadores assintomáticos apresentaram valores médios de absorbância superiores (P<0,05) aos animais com cultura negativa. Logo após a vacinação, potros apresentaram elevação nos níveis de anticorpos, seguida de um decréscimo nos níveis 90 dias após a segunda vacinação. O "Cell ELISA" foi eficiente para a detecção de anticorpos em equinos expostos a antígenos de S. equi, diferenciando-se de infecções por S. zooepidemicus. O "Cell ELISA" mostrou-se uma alternativa clínica para o diagnóstico indireto da adenite equina, diferenciando-se, entre equinos assintomáticos, os potenciais portadores da infecção. Os resultados observados em potros vacinados confirmam o potencial de utilização desse teste como ferramenta em programas de vacinação contra garrotilho pelo monitoramento de rebanhos pós-vacinação. Esses resultados sugerem que o "Cell ELISA" é uma promissora ferramenta auxiliar no controle da adenite equina.(AU)

This study reports the development and evaluation of the use of "Cell ELISA" as a tool for clinical interpretation for the control of strangles. The presence of anti-S. equi antibodies was evaluated in horses with strangles, in asymptomatic carriers and in vaccinated foals. Equine positive for strangle showed higher average of absorbance (P<0.05) when compared with the average for the other categories of horses studied. Asymptomatic S. equi equine carriers had higher average of absorbance (P<0.05) than equines with negative culture. After vaccination, foals presented an increase in antibody levels, followed by a decrease in antibody levels 90 days post the second vaccination. The "Cell ELISA" was efficient for the detection of antibodies in horses exposed to S. equi antigens, differentiating infections with S. zooepidemicus. Thus, the test might be a clinical tool for indirect diagnosis of the strangles, differentiating, between the asymptomatic horses, the potential carriers of infection. The results observed in vaccinated foals confirm the potential use of this test as an auxiliary instrument for strangles vaccination programs based in the serological monitoring of the herd after immunization. These results suggest that the "Cell ELISA" is a promising auxiliary tool in the control of equine adenitis.(AU)

Pressure induced transformations in sorbic acid.

This research reports a pressure dependent Raman study of the sorbic acid between 0.0 and 10.0GPa. The unpolarized Raman spectra were measured in the spectral range of 20-3000cm-1. The high-pressure Raman scattering study of the sorbic acid showed that it underwent a gradual, disordering process. At the room temperature and at the ambient pressure conditions, the crystal structure of the sorbic acid belongs to the monoclinic system with a C2/c (C2h6) space group. The pressure increase induced a higher disorder in the monoclinic unit cell, since a single bending mode, and only very broad stretching Raman modes are present at pressure of ~10GPa. Upon pressure release the high-pressure phase transforms directly into the ambient-pressure phase. The presence of the internal vibrational modes is a guarantee that the molecular structure is maintained. Beyond this, the presence of external modes shows that the crystal has a memory to reverse the process and suggest that the crystal, which was in high disorder (broad Raman bands), does not suffer decomposition in the crystalline structure. The DFT calculations for the sorbic acid were performed in order to understand the vibrational properties. The theoretical study showed that the volume of the unit cell and beta angle decrease significatively when passing from the 0.0GPa to 8.0GPa. The decreases in the volume and beta angle of this particular unit cell were supposed to induce the larger increase in the bandwidths of the observed bands, pointing to some disorder in the monoclinic phase.

Low-temperature Raman spectra of the 2-(α-methylbenzylamino)-5-nitropyridine crystal.

The polar organic 2-(α-methylbenzylamino)-5-nitropyridine crystal (MBANP) has been studied by Raman spectroscopy at low temperatures (from 300 to 10K). The effect of temperature change on the vibrational spectrum is discussed with the aid of DFT calculations. The behavior of the Raman spectra indicates that MBANP molecules present a different conformation at low temperatures associated with the rotation of the phenyl and pyridine rings. Temperature-dependent X-ray measurements and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis were utilized as complementary techniques to investigate the structural stability of MBANP crystal.

Avaliação hematológica e hemogasométrica de potros nascidos de éguas com placentite ascendente / Hematological and hemogasometric evaluation of foals born from mares with ascending placentitis

A placentite é a principal causa de partos prematuros, aborto e nascimento de potros comprometidos, podendo causar hipóxia e septicemia. A hematologia e a gasometria venosa fornecem informações importantes para o monitoramento da saúde de potros nascidos de éguas com placentite. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever os valores hematológicos e hemogasométricos durante as primeiras 24h de vida em potros nascidos de éguas mestiças Crioulas submetidas à indução experimental de placentite, com diferentes graus de maturidade. Foram utilizados 16 potros nascidos de éguas submetidas à indução experimental de placentite, divididos em três grupos de acordo com o grau de maturidade: prematuro (n=8), dismaturo (n=4) e a termo (n=4). Foram realizadas coletas sanguíneas nos momentos 0h, 12h e 24h para realização de hemograma completo e gasometria venosa. No eritrograma, foi observada anemia normocítica normocrômica no grupo prematuro em relação ao grupo dismaturo nas 12h e 24h. O grupo prematuro apresentou menor contagem de leucócitos totais nas 24h em relação ao grupo a termo (P=0,01). Os valores de pH, cHCO3 e SO2 não diferiram entre os grupos, porém os animais prematuros apresentaram acidose respiratória (pH=7,28). A PCO2 nos prematuros foi maior na 0h (P=0,02). Nos três grupos, a PCO2 apresentou uma curva adaptativa com redução dos valores durante as 12h e 24h. Os potros prematuros mostraram menores valores de excesso de base (BE) no nascimento (P=0,02), confirmando o quadro de acidose respiratória. Concluiu-se que as respostas hematológicas e hemogasométricas diferem entre potros com diferentes graus de maturidade. A acidose observada no grupo prematuro ao nascimento, com estabilização e resposta compensatória durante as 12h e 24h, demonstra a necessidade de avaliação hemogasométrica sequencial em potros de risco, o que permite a identificação da resposta clínica ao processo e, assim, auxilia no estabelecimento do tratamento e prognóstico para esses potros.(AU)

The placentitis is a major cause of premature birth, abortion and compromised foal delivery, and may result in hypoxia and sepsis. The blood gas analysis and hematology can provide important information for monitoring the foals born from mares with placentitis, with different degrees of maturity. The aim of this study was to describe the hematological and blood gas values during the first 24 hours of life in foals born from crossbreed mares with experimentally induced placentitis, presenting different degrees of maturity. Sixteen foals, born from mares with experimentally induced ascending placentitis were assigned to three groups according to degree of maturity: premature (n=8), dysmature (n=4), and full-term foals (n=4). Blood samples were collected at birth (0), at 12h and 24h, and hematological evaluation and blood gas variables were measured. In the premature group normocytic normochromic anemia was observed compared to dysmature group at 12h and 24h. The premature group showed lower count of white blood cells at 24h relative to the full-term group (p=0.01). The pH, cHCO3 and SO2 values do not differ among the groups; however the premature group showed respiratory acidosis (pH=7,28). The PCO2 was higher at 0h in the premature foals (p=0.02). In all groups, the PCO2 presented an adaptive curve with reduction between 12h and 24h. The premature foals showed lower base excess (BE) values at birth (p=0.02), confirming the respiratory acidosis in this group. We conclude that the hematological and blood gas response differs between foals with different degrees of maturity. Acidosis in the premature foals at birth, with stabilization and compensation of pH value during the first 12-24h demonstrate the necessity of sequential blood gas analysis in risk foals. This may help identify the clinical response to the process and assist in the establishment of adequate treatment and prognosis for these foals.(AU)

Quercetin in equine frozen semen.

　　BACKGROUND: Supplementation of sperm diluents to reduce the damage caused by the freeze-thaw cycle is broadly used in equine semen cryopreservation. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed at determining the most appropriate quercetin supplementation in equine freezing extender. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Quercetin at four different concentrations (0.25, 0.5, 0.75 or 1 mM) was added in the sperm freezing diluent before the freeze-thaw cycle. The spermatozoa population was analyzed by flow cytometry and a statistical analysis was conducted to detect significant differences between control and treated samples. RESULTS: The statistical analysis did not reveal any significant modification of seminal parameters. CONCLUSION: Within the concentrations tested, quercetin supplementation in equine freezing extender did not affect progressive motility, mitochondrial functionality, acrosome reaction, membrane integrity or DNA fragmentation index in post-thaw equine semen.

Proteinograma sérico de éguas com placentite ascendente e seus respectivos neonatos: dados preliminares / Serum protein concentrationin mares with ascending placentitis and their newborns: preliminary data

Este estudo teve por objetivo estabelecer o proteinograma sérico em éguas com placentite induzida e em seus respectivos neonatos. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue das éguas em oito momentos diferentes e dos potros em quatro momentos. Para obtenção da concentração das frações proteicas, utilizou-se eletroforese em gel de acrilaminada contendo dodecil sulfato de sódio (SDS-PAGE). No método utilizado, foram observadas 23 bandas proteicas, cujos pesos moleculares variaram de 16KDa a 245KDa, sendo possível a identificação das seguintes frações: 175KDa, 102KDa, 83KDa, 63KDa, 50KDa, 41KDa, 39KDa e 28KDa. De todas as bandas proteicas encontradas, somente as de 39KDa e 41KDa apresentaram alteração na cinética nos momentos avaliados. De acordo com a solução marcadora, pode-se sugerir que essas proteínas seriam alfa1-glicoproteína ácida (39KDa) e haptoglobina (41KDa). A concentração de imunoglobulinas nos potros apresentou aumento significativo a partir das 12 horas de nascimento. Não está elucidado se estes níveis refletem a persistência do processo inflamatório placentário ou se são alterações fisiológicas do periparto. Não foram observadas alterações na cinética das proteínas nos potros nas primeiras 48 horas.(AU)

The aim of this paper was to identify the serum acute phase protein concentration in mares with induced placentitis and their neonates. Blood samples were collected from the mares in 8 different moments, and from the foals, in 4 moments. To obtain the concentration of protein fractions acrilaminada gel electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS-PAGE) was used. In the used method 23 protein bands whose molecular weights ranged from 16kDa to 245kDa were observed, it is possible to identify the following fractions: 175kDa, 102kDa, 83kDa, 63kDa, 50kDa, 41kDa, 39kDa and 28kDa. Of all the protein bands found only the 39KDa and 41KDa have changes in the kinetics in the evaluated times. According to the marker solution, we would suggest that these proteins are alfa1-acid glycoprotein (39kDa) and haptoglobin (41kDa). The concentration of immunoglobulins in foals increased significantly from 12 hours of birth.(AU)

Conformational change in the C form of palmitic acid investigated by Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction.

Fatty acids are substances found in most living beings in nature. Here we report the effect of the low temperature in the vibrational and structural properties of the C form of palmitic acid, a fatty acid with 16 carbon atoms. The Raman spectra were obtained in the temperature interval from 300 to 18K in the spectral range between 30 and 3100 cm(-1). The assignment of the duly observed bands was done based on the density functional theory. On cooling, the main changes observed in the lattice mode region of the Raman spectra were interpreted as a conformational modification undergone by the palmitic acid molecules in the unit cell. The X-ray diffraction measurements were obtained from 290 to 80K showing a slight modification in the lattice parameters at about 210K. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements were recorded between 150 and 300K and no enthalpic anomaly in the DSC thermogram was observed. These techniques provided strong evidence of the conformational change in the molecules of palmitic acid at low temperatures.

EFFECT OF SOLID MEDIUM DURING COOLED STORAGE ON STALLION SPERM PARAMETERS.

BACKGROUND: Solid storage medium prevents cellular sedimentation, reduces metabolic demand via limiting movement, and avoids the modification of an extender composition in the sedimentary microenvironment. It has been proven to prolong spermatozoa viability in mammalians. OBJECTIVE: This experiment aims to evaluate the effect of cool storage in solid phase extender on stallion sperms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Semen was collected from 10 Crioulo stallions (n=30) and submitted to treatments: control group (semen extender) and groups with gelatin addition in different concentrations (semen extender + 1%, 2% and 3%). Seminal analyses included motility, mitochondrial functionality, plasma membrane integrity, DNA and acrosome at 0; 24; 48 and 72 hours during cooled storage at 5 degree C. RESULTS: Motility, mitochondrial functionality, plasma membrane and acrosome integrity declined during storage time, with no statistical difference between treatments. DNA integrity did not significantly change during storage period. CONCLUSION: Solid medium was not harmful and did not improved stallion sperm parameters during cooled storage.

Medidas comparativas do padrão morfométrico e perfil energético de éguas crioulas no terço final da gestação, com diferentes escores corporais / Comparative measurements of the morphometric pattern and energy profile of crioula mares in the final third of gestation, with different body condition scores

O objetivo deste estudo é comparar e descrever medidas morfométricas e perfil energético de éguas da raça Crioula no terço final da gestação. Foram utilizadas vinte éguas gestantes, divididas em 2 grupos conforme o escore corporal (BCS); o GrN (n=10), grupo de éguas com BCS 5 ou moderado, e GrO (n=10), grupo de éguas obesas ou BCS 9, analisadas conforme o mês de gestação (8º, 9º, 10º e 11º). Foram realizadas coletas de sangue e avaliações morfométricas mensais do peso corporal (PC), perímetro torácico (PT), perímetro abdominal (PA), altura da crista do pescoço (AC), espessura de gordura subcutânea na base da cauda (EGBC) e espessura de gordura retroperitoneal (EGRP). Para avaliar o perfil energético, foram mensurados os níveis séricos de triglicerídeos (TAG), ácidos graxos não esterificados (NEFA), Leptina (LEP) e Adiponectina. Os resultados das mensurações analisadas demonstraram no GrN incremento (P<0,05) nas variáveis PC, PT, PA e NEFA do 8º para o 9º mês de gestação. Porém, na variável EGBC, o aumento (P<0,01) foi observado entre o 8º e o 11º mês avaliado. No GrO, o PA demonstrou incremento (P<0,01) entre o 8º e o 11º mês de gestação, e a LEP apresentou aumento (P<0,05) entre o 10º e o 11º mês. Quando os dois grupos foram comparados, as variáveis PC, PT, EGBC e EGRP apresentaram diferença (P<0,05) em todos os meses avaliados. Na análise de correlação, o BCS associou-se com o PC (r=0,691; P<0,0001), PT (r=0,705; P<0,0001), EGBC (r=0,701; P<0,0001), EGRP (r=0,627; P<0,0001), níveis séricos de LEP (r=0,426; P<0,0001) e Adiponectina (r=0,217; P<0,05). Dessa forma, pode-se afirmar que a gordura corporal aumentou progressivamente nas éguas do GrN, diferentemente do observado no GrO. Através dos métodos utilizados neste trabalho, torna-se possível a avaliação prática da morfometria das éguas da raça Crioula no terço final da gestação, possibilitando de forma objetiva a identificação de indivíduos obesos.

The aim of this study was to compare and describe morphometric measurements and energy profile of the Crioula breed mares at the end of gestation. Twenty pregnant mares were used and separated into 2 groups according to body condition score (BCS). The GrN (n= 10) group of mares with BCS 5 or moderate and GrO (n = 10) group of obese mares or BCS 9 were analyzed according to the month of pregnancy (8th, 9th, 10th and 11th). Blood samples and monthly morphometric evaluation were performed for body weight (PC), heart girth (PT), waist circumference (PA), height of the crest of the neck (AC), thickness subcutaneous fat on the base of the tail (EGBC) and retroperitoneal (EGRP). To evaluate the energy profile serum levels of triglycerides (TAG), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), leptin (LEP) and adiponectin were measured. The results of the analyzed measurements showed an increase in GrN (P<0.05) in the PC, PT, PA and NEFA variables between the 8th and 9th month of pregnancy. Although there was an increase (P<0.01) between the 8th and 11th month of pregnancy in the EGBC variable, in GrO the PA was increased (P<0.01) between the 8th and 11th month of pregnancy and the LEP showed an increase (P<0.05) between the 10th and 11th month. When both groups were compared, the variables PC, PT, EGBC and EGRP showed differences (P<0.05) in all months evaluated. In the correlation the BCS was associated with PC (r=0.691, P<0.0001), PT (r=0.705, P<0.0001), EGBC (r=0.701, P<0.0001), EGRP (r=0.627, P<0.0001), serum leptin levels (r=0.426, P<0.0001) and adiponectin (r=0.217, P<0.05). Thus, it can be stated that the body fat increased progressively in mares GrN, different from that observed in GrO. Therefore, by the methods used in this study, the morphometry practical evaluation of the Crioula breed mares in the last third of gestation became possible, allowing an objective way to identify obese individuals.

Vibrational spectroscopy, ab initio calculations and Frontier Orbital analysis of 4,5,6,8,9-pentachloropyrimido-[1,2-a][1,8]naphthyridin-10-one.

In this work we present a study of the vibrational spectra of 4,5,6,8,9-pentachloropyrimido-[1,2-a][1,8]naphthyridin-10-one, C11H2Cl5N3O, a substance belonging to the important pharmacological class of 1,8-naphthyridine derivatives. The Fourier transform infrared and the Fourier transform Raman spectra of the crystal were recorded at room temperature in the regions 400-4000 and 50-4000 cm(-1), respectively. Vibrational wavenumbers were predicted using Density Functional Theory calculations with the B3LYP functional on 6-31G(d,p) and 6-311++G(d,p) basis sets. The descriptions of the normal modes were made after calculating the potential energy distribution. Additionally, potential reaction sites were evaluated through Mulliken population and Frontier Orbital analysis.

Reação de fase aguda e sua relação com o desempenho de cavalos em competição de longa distância / Acute phase reaction and its relationship with performance horses competing long distance

O exercício físico é um dos estímulos fisiológicos mais estressantes que um animal pode sofrer e, dependendo de sua intensidade, sugere-se que possa gerar uma reação mediada por proteínas de fase aguda (PFA). O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar a reação de fase aguda e sua relação com o desempenho de cavalos submetidos a uma competição de longa distância. O experimento foi desenvolvido durante a Marcha de Resistência anual promovida pela Associação Brasileira de Criadores de Cavalos Crioulos (ABCCC), composta por um percurso de 750km percorrido durante 15 dias. Foram avaliados 23 equinos, os quais foram divididos em dois grupos, sendo o grupo 1 composto pelos 10 primeiros colocados na competição e o grupo 2 formado pelos 13 animais que concluíram a competição em colocações inferiores ou foram desclassificados antes de terminar a prova. Efetuaram-se coletas sanguíneas em repouso (dia 0) e no último dia de competição, e foi realizado o teste de eletroforese em gel de poliacrilamida contendo dodecil sulfato de sódio (SDS-PAGE) para identificar as proteínas (albumina, haptoglobina, ceruloplasmina, transferrina, imunoglobulina G, imunoglobulina A, glicoproteína ácida e proteína de peso molecular de 23kDa). Os resultados demonstraram que o exercício físico imposto influenciou de forma significativa (P<0,0001) as concentrações séricas de haptoglobina, ceruloplasmina, imunoglobulina A, glicoproteína ácida e proteína de peso molecular de 23kDa. Quando comparados os resultados dos grupos estudados, observou-se que a concentração de haptoglobina após a competição foi superior no grupo de animais com baixo desempenho (grupo 2). Conclui-se que a competição de longa duração é capaz de gerar reação de fase aguda e que o monitoramento da concentração de haptoglobina pode ser um sinalizador de processo inflamatório e baixo desempenho.(AU)

Exercise is one of the most stressful physiologic stimuli that an animal might suffer, depending on its intensity it may generate a reaction mediated by acute phase proteins (APP). The aim of this study was to characterize the acute phase reaction and its relation to performance horses subjected to long distance competition. The experiment was conducted during the annual March of Resistance promoted by the Brazilian Association of Crioulo Horse Breeders (ABCCC), composed of a 750km route traveled during 15 days. 23 horses which were divided in two groups, one group composed by the 10 best placed horses and the second group consisting of 13 animals that have completed the competition in other positions or were disqualified before concluding the race were evaluated. All horses at the beginning of the competition (day 0) and on the last day of competition were subjected to collection of blood and SDS-polyacrylamide gel (SDS-PAGE) electrophoresis was used to measure APPs concentrations (albumin, ceruloplasmin, transferrin, haptoglobin, acid glycoprotein, immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin A and a protein with molecular weight of 23 kDa). By the evaluation of the results, it was observed that exercise had a highly significant influence (P<0.0001) in the serum concentrations of the ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, acid glycoprotein, immunoglobulin A and protein with molecular weight of 23kDa. When comparing the results of the study groups it was observed that the concentration of haptoglobin after the competition was higher in the group of animals with low performance (group 2). We conclude that the long term competition is able to generate acute phase reaction and monitoring the concentration of haptoglobin may be an indicator of inflammation and low performance.(AU)

Temperature-dependent vibrational spectroscopic study and DFT calculations of the sorbic acid.

This work reports a temperature-dependent vibrational spectroscopic study of the sorbic acid (C6H8O2), as well as the mode assignment at ambient conditions, based on the density functional theory. Temperature-dependent vibrational properties have been performed in polycrystalline sorbic acid through both Raman and infrared spectroscopy in the 20-300 K and 80-300 K temperature ranges, respectively. These studies present the occurrence of some modifications in the Raman spectra that could be interpreted as a low temperature phase transition undergone by sorbic acid from the monoclinic phase to an unknown phase with conformational change of the molecules in the unit cell.

Maturidade de potros nascidos de éguas com placentite / Maturity of foals from the mares with placentitis

Objetivou-se descrever a maturidade neonatal através da resposta clínica, comportamental e hematológica de potros nascidos de éguas com placentite. Participaram do estudo seis potros nascidos de éguas submetidas à indução experimental de placentite ascendente através da infusão intracervical de Streptococcus equi subespécie zooepidemicus e tratadas com Sulfa-trimetoprim e Flunixin meglumine. A formação dos grupos neonatais foi realizada de acordo com o grau de viabilidade e sobrevivência até 60 horas: Grupo Não Sobreviventes (n=2); Grupo Debilitados (n=2); Grupo Saudáveis (n=2). Foi considerado o tempo de gestação, período de intervalo inoculação-parto, avaliação comportamental, clínica e hematológica. O Grupo dos potros Saudáveis apresentou maior tempo de gestação (320±2 dias) e maior intervalo inoculação-parto (20,5±2,5 dias). Os Grupos Não Sobreviventes e Debilitados apresentaram atraso para decúbito esternal e reflexo de sucção. Foi observada bradicardia e hipotermia com 48h de vida no Grupo Não Sobreviventes. Os potros do Grupo Não Sobreviventes e Saudáveis apresentaram leucopenia no nascimento com discretas variações até as 48h. Os potros nascidos de éguas com placentite ascendente e tratadas demonstraram evolução clínica e respostas neonatais distintas. Conclui-se que, quanto maior o tempo de manutenção da gestação após a injúria placentária, melhor será a maturação fetal, o que refletirá em viabilidade e melhor capacidade de resposta neonatal...

The aim of this study was to describe the neonatal maturity through clinical, behavioral and hematologic response of foals born from mares with placentitis. Were used six foals born from mares subjected to experimentally induced ascending placentitis through intracervical infusion of Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus and treated with trimethoprim sulfametoxazole and flunixin meglumine. The neonatal groups were performed according to the viability and survival rate up to 60 hours: No Survivors group (n = 2); Debilitated group (n = 2); Healthy group (n = 2). Gestational length, the period between inoculation and delivery, and behavioral, clinical and hematologic evaluations were considered. The Healthy group showed longer gestation length (320±2 days) and longer inoculation-delivery interval (20.5±2.5 days). No Survivors and Debilitated groups showed delay in sternal recumbency and sucking reflex. Bradycardia and hypothermia was observed at 48 hours of life in No Survivors Group. Foals from No Survivors and Healthy groups showed leukopenia at birth with slight variations until 48h. Foals born from mares with ascending placentitis and treated showed distinct clinical and neonatal responses. It is concluded that the longer the maintenance of gestation after placental injury, better is the fetal maturation, which reflects in better viability and ability to neonatal response...

Fungi in the respiratory tract of horses with recurrent airway obstruction / Presença de fungos no trato respiratório de equinos e sua associação com obstrução recorrente das vias aéreas

This study aims to compare the concentration of viable fungi, especially those of the genus Aspergillus in the respiratory tract of stabled horses with and without Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO). Thirty two housed horses from four equestrian centers in Brazil were included in the study. These animals were submitted to clinical examination and to a respiratory sample collection. They were categorized into two groups: healthy and RAO-affected horses. Samples obtained by tracheobronchial washes were evaluated for fungal microscopy, quantitative culture and Aspergillus spp. quantification. Eighteen healthy and 14 RAO-affected horses were studied. Fungi were more frequently recovered in the RAO group, in comparison to controls, for both fungal microscopy (P<0.0001), fungal culture (P<0.0001) and Aspergillus spp. quantitative culture (p=0.001). In conclusion, horses with RAO have significantly higher fungal load in the respiratory tract in comparison to healthy horses. The implications of these findings in terms of the pathogenesis of RAO deserve additional investigation...

Este estudo objetivou comparar a concentração de fungos viáveis, especialmente do gênero Aspergillus, no trato respiratório de equinos estabulados com e sem obstrução recorrente das vias aéreas (ORVA). Trinta e dois equinos provenientes de quatro centros de treinamento equestre do Brasil foram incluídos no estudo. Os animais foram submetidos a exame clínico e coleta de amostra respiratória, sendo categorizados em dois grupos: sadios e ORVA. Os lavados traqueobrônquicos obtidos foram avaliados por exame micológico direto e cultivo quantitativo. Ao todo, 18 equinos saudáveis e 14 com ORVA foram estudados. Fungos foram mais frequentemente detectados em amostras do grupo ORVA em comparação com o grupo controle, tanto no exame micológico direto (P<0,0001) e cultivo quantitativo (P<0,0001) quanto na concentração de unidades formadoras de colônias (UFC) de Aspergillus spp. isolada em cultivo (p=0,001). Equinos com ORVA têm maior concentração de propágulos fúngicos no trato respiratório em comparação com animais sadios. As implicações desses achados na patogenia da ORVA merecem maior atenção e investigação...