Use of Cracker Residue in the Diet of Dairy Heifers: Impacts on Animal Health, Ruminal Fatty Acids Profile, Digestibility, Weight Gain, and Economic Viability.

This study determined whether the isomeric or isoenergetic/isoproteic substitution of corn in the diet of Jersey heifers in the rearing phase with cracker residue would impair growth and health, as well as reducing production costs. Fourteen Jersey females in the growth phase were used, separated into two treatments with seven animals in each lot in collective pens. The experiment used 7-month-old animals (169.8 ± 2.89 kg) and lasted for four months. In Experiment I, the animals were divided into two groups: treatment, with the partial replacement of 40% corn with cracker residue, and control, in which the animals consumed the same diet with 100% corn (isometric diet kg for kg). In Experiment II, the animals with a body weight of 200.2 ± 3.85 kg were divided into two groups: Treatment, replacing 100% of the corn with cracker residue, and control, in which the animals consumed an isoprotein and isoenergetic diet but with 100% of the corn in the formulation. The diet consisted of concentrate, Tifton 85 hay, and corn silage, supplied twice a day individually, with animals contained in their feeders by kennels. There was water ad libitum in the bay. Biweekly weighing and monthly blood analysis were performed, totaling four collections per part for hematologic evaluation, carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism variables. At the end of each experiment, ruminal fluid was collected to measure the volatile fatty acid profile, and feces were collected to determine the apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC). Experiments I and II showed no effect of treatment on body weight, weight gain, average daily weight gain, feed intake, and feed efficiency. There was no effect of treatment on leukocyte, erythrocyte, lymphocyte, neutrophil, monocyte, and eosinophil counts, hematocrit, and hemoglobin concentration (p > 0.05). Experiment I showed a difference between groups for the variables albumin, globulin, total proteins, cholesterol, glucose, and urea, which did not happen in Experiment II. In both experiments, a higher ADC of nutrients was found in the treatment group which had cracker residue (p > 0.05). The concentration of volatile fatty acids in Experiment I was higher in the control group, unlike in Experiment II, where the highest concentration was in the treatment group (p > 0.05). Because experiment I had an isometric substitution, the diets had different bromatological composition, which is the probable cause of the difference between groups; this did not happen in experiment II, in which the diets consumed by the animals was isoproteic and isoenergetic. Based on these data we conclude that the substitution of cracker residue in an isomeric or isoenergetic/isoproteic form does not negatively affect weight gain and animal health, as well as reduces the cost of the concentrate, consequently reducing the cost of production of these animals.

Addition of Butyric Acid and Lauric Acid Glycerides in Nursery Pig Feed to Replace Conventional Growth Promoters.

(1) Background: This study determined whether adding butyric acid and lauric acid glycerides in nursing pigs' feed would improve growth performance, proteinogram, biochemical parameters, and antioxidant status. (2) Methods: Ninety male pigs were divided into five groups with six repetitions per group: NC, negative control (no additive); TRI-BUT, addition of tributyrin in the basal ration; MDT-BUT, addition of mono-, di-, and triglycerides of butyric acid in the basal feed; MDT-LAU, the addition of mono-, di-, and triglycerides of lauric acid in the basal feed; and PC, positive control (addition of gentamicin in the basal feed). (3) Results: PC, TRI-BUT, and MDT-LAU resulted in a high average daily WG from days 1 to 39 (p < 0.01). MDT-LAU, MDT-BUT, and PC resulted in a greater feed:gain from days 1 to 39 than the NC (p = 0.03). Great concentrations of the gamma globulin fraction in all groups were observed than in the NC (p = 0.01). Ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, and C-reactive protein concentrations were lower in all groups than in the NC (p < 0.05). Higher serum glutathione S-transferase activity was observed in the TRI-BUT and MDT-BUT than in the PC (p = 0.04). (4) Conclusions: The addition of butyric acid and lauric acid glycerides in the diet of pigs in the nursery phase can replace growth promoters since the products improve the growth performance, reduce acute-phase proteins, and increase gamma globulin concentrations.

Can the Inclusion of a Vegetable Biocholine Additive in Pig Feed Contaminated with Aflatoxin Reduce Toxicological Impacts on Animal Health and Performance?

(1) Background: This study's objective was to determine whether adding vegetable biocholine (VB) to pigs' diets would minimize the negative effects caused by daily aflatoxin (B1 + B2) intake. (2) Methods: We used seventy-two whole male pigs weaned at an average of 26 days and divided them into four groups with six replicates each (2 × 2 factorial). The treatments were identified as Afla0VB0 (negative control, without aflatoxin and without VB); Afla500VB0 (positive control, 500 µg/kg of aflatoxins; Afla0VB800 (800 mg/kg of VB); and Afla500VB800 (500 µg/kg of aflatoxin +800 mg/kg of VB). (3) Results: In the first 20 days of the experiment, only the pigs from Afla500VB0 had less weight gain and less feed consumption, different from the 30th to 40th day, when all treatments had lower performance than the negative control. In the liver, higher levels of oxygen-reactive species and lipid peroxidation were observed in Afla500VB0, associated with greater activity of the enzymes alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase. In the jejunum, oxidative stress was associated with nitrous stress in Afla500VB0. An increase in splenic glutathione S-transferase activity in the Afla500VB800 animals was observed. (4) Conclusions: Consuming a diet contaminated with 500 µg/kg of aflatoxin influences the health and performance in the nursing phase in a silent way; however, it generates high economic losses for producers. When VB was added to the pigs' diet in the face of an aflatoxin challenge, it showed hepatoprotective potential.

Photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B dye by nanostructured powder systems containing nanoencapsulated curcumin or ascorbic acid and ascorbyl palmitate liposomal.

Due to inadequate treatment and incorrect management, wastewater with dyes has a great toxic potential as an environmental liability, representing a major concern. In this context, this work aims to investigate the potential application of nanostructured powdery systems (nanocapsules and liposomes) in the photodegradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye, under UV and visible irradiation. Curcumin nanocapsules and liposomes containing ascorbic acid and ascorbyl palmitate were prepared, characterized, and dried using the spray drying technique. The drying processes of the nanocapsule and the liposome showed yields of 88% and 62%, respectively, and, after aqueous resuspension of the dry powders, it was possible to recover the nanocapsule size (140 nm) and liposome size (160 nm). The dry powders were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), N2 physisorption at 77 K, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS-UV). Under UV irradiation, 64.8% and 58.48% of RhB were removed with nanocapsules and liposomes, respectively. While under visible radiation, nanocapsules and liposomes were able to degrade 59.54% and 48.79% of RhB, respectively. Under the same conditions, commercial TiO2 showed degradation of 50.02% (UV) and 42.14% (visible). After 5 cycles of reuse, there was a decrease of about 5% for dry powders under UV irradiation and 7.5% under visible irradiation. Therefore, the nanostructured systems developed have potential application in heterogeneous photocatalysis for the degradation of organic pollutants, such as RhB, as they demonstrated superior photocatalytic performance to commercial catalysts (nanoencapsulated curcumin > ascorbic acid and ascorbyl palmitate liposomal > TiO2).

Addition of chromium propionate in dog food: metabolic, immunological, and oxidative effects.

Chromium is a trace element essential in metabolising carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins and is involved in other biological functions. Therefore, this study determined whether chromium propionate supplementation in dogs improves haematologic, metabolic, immune/inflammatory, and antioxidant biomarkers. A commercial product (Labex® Chromium) containing 0.4% chromium was used at 500 g/ton of food, which provided an additional calculated amount of 2 mg of chromium per kg of food. We used ten beagles divided into two treatments: the chromium group (supplemented with 0.380 mg of chromium/dog/day; T-CHR) and the control group comprised dogs fed a basal diet (no chromium supplementation). The experiment included two periods of 28 days, with an interval of 15 days, i.e. the dogs in the control group in the first period were in the chromium group in the second period (all dogs underwent all treatments in a crossover design). Dogs supplemented with chromium had higher serum mineral levels on days 14 and 28 (P ≤ 0.001). The group in the chromium group showed significantly higher numbers of total leukocytes and lymphocytes and concentrations of total protein, globulin, thio-proteins, and catalase activity in blood than the control group. Serum urea concentrations and TBARS (lipid peroxidation) were lower (P ≤ 0.05) in the chromium group. Tendencies towards lower concentrations of reactive oxygen species were observed on day 28 in the T-CHR group (P = 0.10). Chromium supplementation increased the concentration of cytokines in serum (tumour necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α], IFN-γ, and IL-10) and C-reactive protein (P ≤ 0.05). Dogs in the chromium group had higher gamma globulin concentrations than controls (P ≤ 0.001). These findings suggest that supplementation with chromium propionate (2 mg/kg) in food positivity modulates metabolic, antioxidant, and immune indicators in dogs.

Encapsulated pepper blend in the diet of confined Holstein bullocks: effect on ruminal volatile fatty acid profiles, growth performance, and animal health.

Dairy bulls in feedlots have been a viable alternative for dairy producers to reinforce the family's income. Aspects such as balanced diets and proper management are essential for these animals to develop and allow an economic return fully. Plant extracts are performance enhancers and ruminal and intestinal health promoters. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate whether the addition of encapsulated pepper (EP) blend (Capsicum annuum, Capsicum frutescens, and Capsicum chinense - rich in capsaicin) interferes with the volatile fatty acid profile in the rumen and enhances the growth performance of Holstein bullocks in a feedlot. For the experiment, 24 whole bullocks were used, distributed into three treatments, with eight replicates per treatment (one animal as an experimental unit, kept in an individual stall): groups T0, T200, and T400, receiving 0 mg, 200 mg, and 400 mg EP/kg of concentrate, respectively. Knowing the intake of concentrate and the average body weight during the experiment, we calculated the dose in mg/kg/day of the EP; that is, the T200 animals consumed 2.45 mg EP/kg (body weight -BW)/day; and T400 consumed 4.9 mg EP/kg BW/day. The animals from T400 presented a more significant weight gain between days 15 and 45 of confinement compared to T0 (P=0.05). This same treatment (T400) had a trend of lower weight gain between days 46 and 90 (P=0.09). Likewise, the T400 group had higher feed efficiency than T0 between days 15 and 45. Furthermore, the treatments affected the white blood cell count, with the T400 bullocks showing a higher number of neutrophils and lymphocytes. Higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured in the serum of steers from both groups that consumed pepper (P<0.01). Interaction between treatment × day was observed for the activity of glutathione enzymes (GST and GPx) and levels of lipoperoxidation (LPO) (characterized by antioxidant stimulation) associated with the reduction in serum LPO; similar antioxidant enzymes behavior was observed in the liver. In the small intestine (jejunum), the activities of antioxidant enzymes (GST and GPx) were lower in the two groups of cattle that consumed EP, and LPO was lower. The treatments affected the concentration of acetic acid in the rumen fluid, presenting lower levels in T400 compared to T200 and similar T0 (P≤0.05). There was an interaction of day vs. treatment for propionic acid, presenting a higher concentration on day 45 at T400 than T0. These results, therefore, allow us to conclude that adding 400 mg of pepper extract can be an excellent additive for weight gain at the beginning of the experiment; however, over time, this dose of additive negatively affects weight gain. Both EP doses stimulated serum and tissue antioxidant responses, reducing lipoperoxidation. However, the 400 mg EP/kg concentrate suggests a pro-inflammatory response (leukocytosis and elevated CRP), s probably related to the high dose (i.e., between 1.7 and 2.4 g/animal/day).

Curcumin modulates neurogliogenesis and purinergic receptor expression in neural precursor cells infected with Toxoplasma gondii.

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, and its congenital transmission is of paramount concern. During embryonic development, infection with the parasite causes irreversible damage to the still-forming fetus's central nervous system (CNS). In the pathogenesis of neurotoxoplasmosis, purinergic receptors prejudice neuroprotection, neuroinflammation, and activation of microbicide mechanisms against the parasitic vacuole. This study used curcumin as a treatment for neural precursor cells (NPCs) infected with T. gondii. The congenital toxoplasmosis induction consisted of maternal infection with the VEG strain, and NPCs were obtained from the telencephalon of mouse embryos. Curcumin at increasing concentrations was administered in vitro to analyze NPC metabolic activity, cell number, and size, as well as neurogliogenesis, proving to be effective in recovering the size of infected NPCs. Curcumin partially re-established impaired neurogenesis. Purinergic A1, A2A, and P2X7 receptors may be related to neuroprotection, neuroinflammatory control, and activation of mechanisms for inducing the parasite's death. ERK 1/2 was highly expressed in infected cells, while its expression rates decreased after the addition of the treatment, highlighting the possible anti-inflammatory action of curcumin. These findings suggest that curcumin treats neurological perturbations induced by toxoplasmosis.

Impact of free curcumin and curcumin nanocapsules on viability and oxidative status of neural cell lines.

Curcumin is an active polyphenol substance found in the highest concentrations in the roots of Curcuma longa. Its health benefits have led to recent increases in the consumption of curcumin. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities and is a potent neuroprotective against diseases of the brain. Nevertheless, its low bioavailability and its relative difficulty crossing the blood-brain barrier limit curcumin's use for these purposes. Curcumin-loaded nanoparticles may be an effective treatment for several diseases although there is a paucity of studies reporting its safety in the central nervous system (CNS). Therefore, this study aimed to identify non-neurotoxic concentrations of free curcumin and two nanoformulations of curcumin. Cell lines BV-2 and SH-SY5Y, both originating from the CNS, were evaluated after 24, 48, and 72 h of treatment with free curcumin and nanocapsules We measured viability, proliferation, and dsDNA levels. We measured levels of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide as proxies for oxidative stress in culture supernatants. We found that free curcumin was toxic at 10 and 20 µM, principally at 72 h. Nanoformulations were more neurotoxic than the free form. Safe concentrations of free curcumin are between 1-5 µM, and these concentrations were lower for nanoformulations. We determined the ideal concentrations of free curcumin and nanocapsules serving as a basis for studies of injuries that affect the CNS.

Thermoregulation and Performance of Dairy Cows Subjected to Different Evaporative Cooling Regimens, with or without Pepper Extract Supplementation.

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether there is an interaction between pepper extract (PE) supplementation and evaporative cooling regimens on the performance, thermal comfort, and metabolism of lactating cows. The experiment was designed as a double 4 × 4 Latin square using eight multiparous Holstein cows (days in milk 147 ± 43.8 days). Treatments were a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement; two evaporative cooling regimens [sprinkler cycles of 30 s on and 4.5 min off (R5) and 30 s on and 9.5 min off (R10)] were combined with no inclusion of pepper extract (CT) or 800 mg/cow daily of PE. The inclusion of PE allowed a greater reduction in the surface temperature of the coat, and the cows remained for longer periods in the feeding area. There was an interaction between the use of PE and the climate regimen for surface temperature, which was lower for PER5. Cows experiencing greater intermittency in the spraying cycles (R10) spent 35% more time at the feeding area. A significant interaction was observed for milk production, with greater production for CTR5 compared to the other treatments. The feed efficiency for R5 was higher than that for R10. The R5 treatment combined with PE reduced water intake. There was no significant difference in serum parameters other than gamma-glutamyl transferase, with an interaction between treatments and greater activity for PER10, and total protein and albumin, which had cooling effects that were higher for R10. The two factors tested interfered in different and dissociated ways. The evaporative cooling strategies were effective, and the R5 treatment resulted in higher feed efficiency and milk production. The inclusion of PE enhanced heat reduction in cows when they were subjected to a cooling regime.

Interaction between live vaccines for coccidiosis and phytogenic compounds in the diet of broilers.

This study aimed to determine whether live vaccines alone or associated with phytogenic compounds supplied via feed could improve performance, intestinal health, serum biochemistry, and coccidiostatic action in broilers up to 42 days of age, challenged with Eimeria spp., compared with a traditional anticoccidial program. We used 800 birds divided into five treatments of eight repetitions each (n = 20): NC - Negative control (absence of additives in the feed and without coccidian challenge); PC - Positive control (absence of additives and with coccidian challenge at 21 days); AAP - Anticoccidial additives program, including salinomycin and nicarbazine, with coccidian challenge at 21 days of life; VAC - Vaccination on day 1 of life (Hipracox HIPRA®) against coccidiosis and subsequent coccidian challenge at 21 days; VAC + BPC - Vaccination (day 1 of life), the addition of 200 ppm of blend phytogenic compound (BPC) based on carvacrol and cinnamaldehyde to the diet, with coccidian challenge at 21 days of life. The birds in the AAP group more significant weight gain and greater body weight at 21 days than the NC and 42 days of age than the NC and VAC + BPC groups. The excretion of Eimeria oocysts in the excreta of birds was higher in PC than in NC, and in the litter, PC had higher counts than NC, AAP, and VAC + BPC. A higher mean score of intestinal lesions for Eimeria acervulina was observed in VAC and VAC + BPC birds, while for Eimeria maxima, the highest score was found in PC. Higher serum levels of total protein due to the increase in globulins were observed in birds of AAP and VAC than NC. Our findings suggest that vaccination for coccidiosis shortly after the birth of chicks allows performance similar to the conventional coccidiosis control program via diet.

Addition of a blend of essential oils (cloves, rosemary and oregano) and vitamin E to replace conventional chemical antioxidants in dog feed: effects on food quality and health of beagles.

This study aimed to produce dog food containing natural antioxidants (blend of essential oils and vitamin E) to replace synthetic antioxidants and determine the effects on food conservation and animal health sequentially. The foods were produced in a commercial factory, and the antioxidants were added at the oil bath stage. Ten adult beagle dogs were used, divided into two treatments; control treatment (CON; synthetic antioxidant feed [butylhydroxytoluene]) and test treatment (NAT; natural antioxidant feed; blend of essential oils from clove, rosemary, oregano, and vitamin E). The dogs were weighed at the beginning and end of each experimental period, and there were no treatment effects for body weight. In both treatments, food conservation efficiency was observed, demonstrating the feasibility of using natural sources as antioxidants in dog food because chemical and oxidative variables did not differ regardless of the antioxidant used during production. The animals' metabolic and haematological variables were not influenced by the treatments; however, a reduction in the number of lymphocytes was observed over time only in the dogs of the NAT group. There was also a day effect for total leukocyte, neutrophil and erythrocyte counts only in NAT animals, which means a significant increase (p ≤ 0.05) in the variables on d 28. There was an effect of the treatment and an interaction treatment x day for the total bacterial count, whereas a decrease in the bacterial count (p < 0.05) was observed in NAT dogs' faeces on day 28. Dogs fed the NAT diet had lower reactive oxygen species (ROS) (p ≤ 0.05) to minimise oxidative stress. In group NAT, the NPSH and glutathione S-transferase levels were increased, which may explain the decrease in ROS levels. It was concluded that natural antioxidants in dog feed, in addition to promoting feed conservation, stimulate levels of systemic antioxidants and minimise the impacts caused by free radicals in the dogs' blood.

Involvement of ectonucleotidases and purinergic receptor expression during acute Chagas disease in the cortex of mice treated with resveratrol and benznidazole.

Chagas disease (CD) is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. CD affects people worldwide, primarily in tropical areas. The central nervous system (CNS) is an essential site for T. cruzi persistence during infection. The protozoan may pass through the blood-brain barrier and may cause motor and cognitive neuronal damage. Once in the CNS, T. cruzi triggers immune responses that the purinergic system can regulate. Treatment for CD is based on benznidazole (BNZ); however, this agent has negative side-effects and is toxic to the host. For this reason, we investigated whether resveratrol (RSV), a potent antioxidant and neuroprotective molecule, would modulate purinergic signaling and RSV alone or in combination with BNZ would prevent changes in purinergic signaling and oxidative damage caused by T. cruzi. We infected mice with T. cruzi and treated them with RSV or BNZ for 8 days. Increases in ATP and ADP hydrolysis by NTPDase in the total cortex of infected animals were observed. The treatment with RSV in infected group diminished ATP, ADP, and AMP hydrolysis compared to infected group. The combination of RSV + BNZ decreased AMP hydrolysis in infected animals compared to the INF group, exerting an anti-inflammatory effect. RSV acted as a neuroprotector, decreasing adenosine levels. Infected animals presented an increase of P2X7 and A2A density of purine receptors. RSV reduced P2X7 and A2A and increased A1 density receptors in infected animals. In addition, infected animals showed higher TBARS and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels than control. RSV diminished ROS levels in infected mice, possibly due to antioxidant properties. In short, we conclude that resveratrol could act as a neuroprotective molecule, probably preventing inflammatory changes caused by infection by T. cruzi, even though the mice experienced high levels of parasitemia.

Resveratrol impacts in oxidative stress in liver during Trypanosoma cruzi infection.

Trypanosoma cruzi is the causative agent of Chagas disease, infecting the heart, intestines and liver tissues. There is growing evidence that oxidative stress, defined as a persistent imbalance between highly oxidative compounds and antioxidant defenses, is a marker of tissue inflammation; it is related to immune responses such as damage, as well as to strand breaks in DNA contributing to disease progression. Antioxidant agents help mitigate the damage caused by inflammation, preventing or slowing damage to cells caused by free radicals. In this sense, resveratrol (RSV) is an important polyphenol that demonstrates antioxidant effects. It reverses damage caused by several infectious diseases. The aim of the present study was to determine whether treatment with RSV would prevent or minimize oxidative damage caused by T. cruzi. The animals were divided into four groups (n = 5): A) control; B) control + RSV; C) infected and D) infected + RSV. The infected groups received 1 x 104 Y strain trypomastigotes via intraperitoneal injection; after confirmation of infection, the mice received RSV 100 mg/kg for seven days orally. On the 8th day post-infection, we collected liver tissue for analysis of oxidant/antioxidant status: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione s-transferase (GST) activities, as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS), non-protein thiols (NPSH), thiols, carbonyl protein, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), and finally, the nitrite/nitrate ratio (NOx) levels were determined. The administration of RSV did not exert direct effect on parasitemia. The infection produced high levels of TBARS, NOx, and ROS levels in liver tissue, suggesting cellular injury with production of free radicals in animals infected by T. cruzi. RSV positively modulated SOD and aumenting GST activities enzymes in infected animals. Protein thiols levels in infected animals were lower than those of control. Taken together, the data suggest T. cruzi causes hepatic oxidative stress, and RSV 100 mg/kg for seven days it's dosen't seem minimized these negative effects in the acute phase of disease.

Neuroprotective role of resveratrol mediated by purinergic signalling in cerebral cortex of mice infected by Toxoplasma gondii.

The central nervous system of the intermediate host plays a central role in lifelong persistence of Toxoplasma gondii as well as the pathogenesis of congenital toxoplasmosis and reactivated infection in immunocompromised individuals. The purinergic system has been implicated in a wide range of immunological pathways for controlling intracellular responses to pathogens, including T. gondii. In the present study, we investigated the effect of resveratrol (RSV) on ectonucleotidases, adenosine deaminase (ADA), and purinergic receptors during chronic infection by T. gondii. For this study, Swiss mice were divided into control (CTL), resveratrol (RSV), infected (INF), and INF+RSV groups. The animals were orally infected with the VEG strain and treated with RSV (100 mg/kg, orally). Ectonucleotidase activities, P2X7, P2Y1, A1, and A2A purinergic receptor density, ROS, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels were measured in the cerebral cortex of mice. T. gondii infection increased NTPDase and reduced ADA activities. Treatment with RSV also affected enzymes hydrolysing extracellular nucleotides and nucleosides. Finally, RSV affected P1 and P2 purinergic receptor expression during T. gondii infection. Overall, RSV-mediated beneficial changes in purinergic signalling and oxidative stress, possibly improving cerebral cortex homeostasis in T. gondii infection.

Nitric oxide levels in brain, liver, and gills of silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen) exposed to the antiparasitic eprinomectin.

Nitric oxide (NO) is a mediator and biomarker of pro- and anti-inflammatory processes. Excessive levels of NO for long periods have been associated with inflammation and tissue damage. The metabolism and synthesis of NO is usually measured indirectly, as metabolites and enzymes involved in reactions, often as the nitrite/nitrate (NOx) level. The aim of the present study was to measure the NOx levels in vital organs of juvenile silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen) exposed to various levels of eprinomectin in the water. The fish were exposed for 24 and 48 h to start concentration (0 h) of eprinomectin in water (0.0, 1.12, 1.80, and 3.97 µg/L). The eprinomectin concentrations in water were lower at 24 h (0.0, 0.85, 1.14, and 1.15 µg/L) and 48 h (0.0, 0.39, 0.69, and 1.28 µg/L), due to the process of eprinomectin metabolization. Subsequently, the fish were left for 48 h of recovery in eprinomectin-free water. NO levels were measured indirectly, as NOx levels in brain, liver, and gill tissue. Within 24 h of exposure, there was no significant increase in NOx levels in the organs evaluated at any of the concentrations tested. However, increases in NOx levels did occur at 48 h of exposure in all organs, particularly at the two highest concentrations of eprinomectin (1.80 and 3.97 µg/L). The transfer of fish to eprinomectin-free water did not result in reversal of NOx levels after 48 h of recovery, especially in fish that had been exposed to the two highest concentrations in the brain and liver tissues, and for the highest concentration in the gills. We conclude that silver catfish exposed to eprinomectin for up to 48 h present possible cerebral, hepatic, and branchial inflammatory process associated with increased tissue NOx levels, and that recovery for 48 h in water without antiparasitic is insufficient for the fish to recover from the poisoning.

Effect of heat treatment on pre-stocking of Turkey eggs and its impact on incubation and hatching.

Egg stocking is used to meet housing demands in the hatchery industry. Stocking periods longer than 10 days of occur commonly, despite the fact that this practice causes productive losses during the incubation process. To minimize these losses, eggs are heated before incubation to stimulate the embryo, thereby reducing the range of birth intervals. The objective of this study was to determine whether heat treatment (37.5 °C) prior to incubation would improve hatching rates. We also determined the heat-exposure time necessary to improve productivity. We stored 5376 Nicholas pedigree eggs, aged between 40 and 51 weeks, for seven days. These eggs were distributed in three groups: groups 1 and 2 received 4 and 6 h of heat treatment, respectively; group 3 was used as control (no heat treatment, remaining at 17 °C). After heat treatment, the eggs were stored for 7 days at 17 °C, together with eggs from the control group. We found significant variation in the cumulative dispersion of birds born during the hatch window; greater numbers of birds were born in group 1 that underwent the 4-h heat treatment with a 24-h hatch window and in group 3 that underwent the 6-h heat treatment with a 12-h hatch window. Hatch rate, yolk retention and the relationship between average chick weight/average egg weight did not differ between treatments. These data suggest that heat treatment modulates the hatch window; nevertheless, the treatment did not influence the average weight the chicks, the number of chicks born, the percentage of hatching or yolk retention.

Correlation between intestinal health and coccidiosis prevalence in broilers in Brazilian agroindustries.

Coccidiosis is caused by protozoa of the genus Eimeria. These are intracellular parasites of enterocytes that rupture the host cell, causing lesions in the intestinal mucosa. The lesions caused by Eimeria reduce nutrient absorption capacity, negatively affecting productive gains in broilers, and representing a gateway for other enteropathogens. The objective of this study was to analyze the correlation between lesions caused by Eimeria and the prevalence of coccidiosis and other alterations found in the gastrointestinal tracts of broilers produced in Brazil from 2017 to 2018. Intestinal health evaluations were performed in 32 integrations (farm) of broilers in Brazil, totaling 726 birds analyzed between the ages of 22 and 40 days. Necropsied chickens were collected at three different points, with at least three birds per shed. We analyzed the following changes in the gastrointestinal tract: presence of cellular desquamation, fluid and mucus excess, ingestion of bedding, small and large intestine lesion, food passage, altered tone, "Turkish towel" lesions, worm infection, enteritis and gizzard erosion. The definition of macroscopic lesion scores caused by Eimeria acervulina, Eimeria maxima, Eimeria tenella followed a specific methodology. Mucosal oocyst counts for E. maxima (E. maxima micro) was performed using an optical microscope with a magnification of 100×. We found that the species E. acervulina had the highest prevalence (5.5%). With respect to E. acervulina, a positive correlation was observed with cellular desquamation, bedding ingestion and passage of food. The second highest prevalence was E. maxima (average of 4%), showing positive correlations with cellular desquamation, fluid excess, bed ingestion, feed passage and E. acervulina. E. tenella represented the lowest prevalence (0.8%) among the species of Eimeria analyzed, showing a positive correlation with altered intestinal tone. On microscopic evaluation, E. maxima was present in 45% of mucosa scrapings, representing subclinical coccidiosis of 1125% (11.25-fold) greater than the rate of clinical coccidiosis. Regarding other alterations that were visualized in the gastrointestinal tract, we have recorded the incidence of altered intestinal tone (0.1%), worm infection (0.4%), small intestine (0.8%), enteritis (1%), duodenitis (1.5%), "Turkish towel" lesions (3.3%), excess fluid (4.5%), bed ingestion (6.9%), excess mucus (8.4%), food passage (10.3%), cellular desquamation (11%) and gizzard erosion (13.4%). We conclude that monitoring is of paramount importance to understand the intestinal health status of poultry lots. Microscopic E. maxima is present in 45%. We identified factors that correlate with reduction in intestinal health, impairing zoo-economic performance.

Eprinomectin antiparasitic affects survival, reproduction and behavior of Folsomia candida biomarker, and its toxicity depends on the type of soil.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the toxicity of the antiparasitic agent eprinomectin in two subtropical soils, using ecotoxicological lethality, reproduction and avoidance behavior tests with springtails (Folsomia candida). Eprinomectin concentrations were 0 (control), 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 mg kg-1 of dry soil combined with either Entisol or Oxisol soils. Statistically significant toxic effects of eprinomectin on springtails were observed in both soils. Eprinomectin was lethal starting at 8 mg kg-1 of dry soil in Entisol, and 20 mg kg-1 of dry soil in Oxisol, with effects less than 50% at lethal concentrations. Reductions in the reproduction rate of the springtails were also observed starting at 8 mg kg-1 of dry soil in Entisol, and 0.5 mg kg-1 of dry soil in Oxisol. ECrepr50 value calculated for Entisol was 4.38 ±â€¯0.62 mg kg-1 of dry soil; for Oxisol the ECrepr50 was above the highest tested concentration. For avoidance behavior, the effect occurred from 0.5 mg kg-1 of dry soil for both soils. In Entisol, all concentrations caused avoidance of more than 95%, and in Oxisol the ECavoi50 value was 1.33 ±â€¯0.83 mg kg-1 of dry soil. We conclude that eprinomectin affected survival, reproduction and caused avoidance behavior of F. candida in both soils. The toxic effects were greater as the concentration in the soils increased. The effects in Oxisol were less intense than those in Entisol with respect to the affected springtails. This discrepancy may be attributed to the different physicochemical characteristics of the soils that determine the retention capacity for eprinomectin; in particular, there are greater contents of clay, organic matter and cation exchange capacity in Oxisol.

Cholinesterase as an inflammatory marker of subclinical infection of dairy cows infected by Neospora caninum and risk factors for disease.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of Neospora caninum in dairy cows, as well as to verify the risk factors for N. caninum infection and inflammatory response in dairy cows. Using the indirect immunofluorescence reaction, the seroprevalence of neosporosis was determined to be 32.82%. Based on regression analysis, the presence of dogs at a farm increased the probability of a cow testing positive for N. caninum (OR = 20.01 [5.21-123.12]). These data suggest that N. caninum has a relevant prevalence in dairy cows of the Microregion of Rio do Sul (Brazil), with elevated frequencies of anti-N. caninum IgG. The data also suggest that the parasite is widely distributed in dairy herds of the micro-region, because 94.4% of properties screened had at least one seropositive animal. The principal risk factors for disease maintenance in herds may be considered the presence of dogs and absence of a diagnostic test when introducing new animals. Blood from these cows was used to measure variables related to the inflammatory response. Serum cholinesterase activity, as well as serum levels of globulins and C-reactive protein were higher in seropositive to N. caninum than in seronegative cows. Furthermore, the infection by parasite causes an intense inflammatory process, contributing to disease pathophysiology.

Lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in broiler breast fillets with white striping myopathy.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether broiler breast fillets with severe white striping (WS) had elevated levels of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation, as well as antioxidant responses. A total of 45 breast muscles from broiler chickens were divided into three groups (n = 15): normal, moderate (stripes <1 mm) and severe (stripes >1 mm). Chicken breasts with severe WS showed muscular cells with small areas and diameters (p < 0.05), as well as the presence of inflammatory cells. Higher percentages of moisture content, fat, collagen, and smaller protein content than did WS breast samples compared control. Breast samples with moderate and severe degrees of WS had higher reactive oxygen species levels and advanced oxidation protein products than did the control group, and animals with severe WS had higher lipid peroxidation levels. The activities of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase were higher (p < 0.0001) in animals with moderate WS than those in the control. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: White striping myopathy in broiler breast fillets is characterized by the presence of parallel white stripes in the same direction as the muscular fiber, commonly occurring in the pectoralis major muscle. The results showed that chicken breasts with WS demonstrated imbalances of antioxidant/oxidant status, characterizing increases of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in muscle. This situation does not prevent the consumption of the meat, but negatively affects its quality.