Microbial Leakage through Three Different Implant-Abutment Interfaces on Morse Taper Implants In Vitro.

The objective of this study was to evaluate microbial leakage by means of genome counts, through the implant-abutment interface in dental implants with different Morse taper abutments. Fifty-six samples were prepared and divided in four groups: CMC TB (14 Cylindrical Implants-14 TiBase Abutments), CMX TB (14 Conical Implants-14 TiBase Abutments), CMX PU (14 Conical Implants-14 Universal Abutment) and CMX U (14 Tapered Implants-14 UCLA Abutments). Assemblies had their interface submerged in saliva as the contaminant. Samples were subjected either to thermomechanical cycling (2 × 106 mechanical cycles with frequency of 5 Hz and load of 120 N simultaneously with thermal cycles of 5-55 °C) or thermal cycling (5-55 °C). After cycling, the contents from the inner parts of assemblies were collected and analyzed using the Checkerboard DNA-DNA hybridization technique. Significant differences in the total genome counts were found after both thermomechanical or thermal cycling: CMX U > CMX PU > CMX TB > CMC TB. There were also significant differences in individual bacterial counts in each of the groups (p < 0.05). Irrespective of mechanical cycling, the type of abutment seems to influence not only the total microbial leakage through the interface, but also seems to significantly reflect differences considering individual target species.

Effect of toothbrushing with conventional and whitening dentifrices on monolithic zirconia after finishing procedures.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of toothbrushing with conventional and whitening dentifrices on the color difference (ΔE00), gloss (Δgloss), and surface roughness (SR) of stained stabilized zirconia with 5 mol% of yttrium oxide (5Y-TZP) after polishing or glazing. METHODS: Specimens were divided into four groups (n=20): C (control), S (staining), SG (staining and glazing) and SP (staining and polishing). 50,000 toothbrushing cycles were performed with conventional (n=10) and whitening (n= 10) dentifrice slurries. The ΔE00 and Δgloss were measured using a spectrophotometer and CIEDE2000 system while SR was measured by laser confocal microscope. The ΔE00 and Δgloss data were analyzed using 2-way ANOVA, and SR data were analyzed using the linear repeated measures model, with Bonferroni's complementary test (α= 0.05). RESULTS: The ΔE00 values were beyond the acceptability threshold and no differences were found among the groups. There was no difference among groups to Δgloss after toothbrushing with conventional dentifrice while SP presented the highest values of Δgloss after toothbrushing with whitening dentifrice. Conventional dentifrice decreased the SR of stained groups and whitening dentifrice decreased SR of S and SG. The toothbrushing with conventional and whitening dentifrices promoted color difference, but did not impair gloss and surface roughness of stained 5Y-TZP. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Monolithic zirconia has been routinely used for esthetic restorations, however the type of finishing procedures that is carried out on it must be taken into consideration, in addition to the fact that brushing can influence the color difference of the material as well as interfere with surface roughness and gloss.

Evaluation of Vertical Misfit and Torque Loss of Different Abutments for Tri-Channel Type Internal Connection Dental Implants After Mechanical Cycling.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the mechanical behavior of UCLA and Mini-conical abutments for implants with Tri-channel connections regarding torque loss and vertical misfit. Twenty 3-element metal-ceramic fixed partial dentures (FPD) supported by 2 implants were manufactured and divided into 2 groups (n = 10): UCLA (group 1) and Mini-conical Abutments (group 2). The evaluation of torque loss was carried out before and after mechanical cycling, while the vertical fit was evaluated throughout the different stages of manufacturing the prostheses, as well pre- and postcycling (300,000 cycles, 30 N). Statistical analyses of torque loss and vertical misfit were performed using the linear mixed effects model. Both groups showed torque loss after mechanical cycling (P < .05); however, there was no significant percentage differences between them (P = .795). Before cycling, the groups showed a significant difference in terms of vertical misfit values (P < .05); however, this difference was no long observed after cycling (P = .894). Both groups showed torque loss after the cycling test, with no significant difference (P > .05). There was no significant difference in vertical misfit after mechanical cycling; however, in group 1 (UCLA) there was accommodation of the implant-UCLA abutment interface, while group 2 (Mini-conical abutment) did not show changes in the interface with the implant after the test. Both groups behaved similarly regarding the torque loss of the prosthesis retention screws pre- and postmechanical cycling, with greater loss after the test.

Nitrous oxide and methane emissions from a Ferralsol as affected by loblolly pine cultivation time in subtropical Brazil.

We hypothesized that the age of loblolly pine stands influences soil methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. This is a relevant topic to be studied in subtropical Brazil, where the pine plantation area is increasing considerably. We evaluated N2O and CH4 emissions for two years in a Ferralsol under loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) stands of 1, 9 and 18 year-olds and a native forest (NF). We calculated the net CO2eq emission by considering the N2O and CH4 emissions from soil and the carbon (C) accumulation as litter in the forest floor. The soil N2O emission reduced gradually over the loblolly pine cultivation years, whereas CH4 uptake rates showed no clear pattern. Soil N2O emission showed a positive relationship with soil temperature in NF, and with soil ammonium and nitrate intensities in the pine stands. Soil CH4 uptake was inversely related to water-filled pore space in the pine stands, but this relationship was not observed in NF. The soil CH4 uptake rate was 4.6 times higher (p < 0.10) in NF than the average uptake in loblolly pine stands. On the other hand, soil N2O emissions in 9 and 18-year-old stands were similar (p > 0.10) to those in NF (1.3 kg N ha-1 yr-1). Our results suggest that cultivation with loblolly pine for 18 years can reduce soil N2O emission, and the uptake of CH4 in this system offsets 17 % of N2O emissions. Furthermore, the C accumulation as litter in the forest floor of the mature pine stands (9- and 18-year-old) generated a net emission of -1.6 Mg CO2eq ha-1 yr-1, showing to be an expressive offsetting mechanism. Therefore, we conclude that aged loblolly forests can reach N2O emissions levels comparable to those of NF, and the C sequestration in these forests floor can significantly contribute to offset N2O emissions and act as sink for net atmospheric CO2eq.

Influence of Torque on Platform Deformity of the Tri-Channel Implant: Two- and Three-Dimensional Analysis Using Micro-Computed Tomography.

Background and Objectives: The insertion of the dental implant in the bone is an essential step in prosthetic rehabilitation. The insertion torque has the potential to distort the prosthetic platform, which can cause future biomechanical problems with the continuous action of occlusal forces. The aim of this study is to evaluate different insertion torques in the deformation of tri-channel platform connections through two- and three-dimensional measurements with micro-CT. Materials and Methods: A total of 164 implants were divided into groups (platform diameter and type): 3.5, 3.75, and 4.3 mm NP (narrow platform), and 4.3 mm RP (regular platform). Each implant-platform group was then divided into four subgroups (n = 10) with different torques: T45 (45 Ncm), T80 (80 Ncm), T120 (120 Ncm), and T150 (150 Ncm). The implant-abutment-screw assemblies were scanned and the images obtained were analyzed. Results: A significant difference was observed for the linear and volume measures between the different platforms (p < 0.01) and the different implant insertion torques (p < 0.01). Qualitative analysis suggested a higher deformation resistance for the 3.75 NP compared to the 3.5 NP, and RP was more resistant compared to the NP. Conclusions: The 0.25 mm increment in the implant platform did not increase the resistance to the applied insertion torques; the 4.3 mm implant was significantly stronger compared to the 3.5 mm implant; and the proposed micro-CT analysis was considered valid for both the 2D and 3D analyses of micro-gaps, qualitatively and quantitatively.

Teaching and learning pharmacology in Brazil before COVID-19 pandemic: a case study in Rio de Janeiro.

BACKGROUND: Knowledge of pharmacology is crucial for physicians to perform rational and safe medicine. Medical professionals are responsible for prescribing drugs and a weak performace of those can result in medication errors leading to disability, hospitalization, and death, among other situations. It occurs worldwide, including in Brazil, so that learning pharmacology impacts on public health service. We aim to investigate the current pharmacology educational practices in medical schools in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. METHODS: We surveyed 14 of 22 medical schools in Rio de Janeiro. Pharmacology teachers (n=16) and medical students (n=89) answered a semi-structured questionnaire that included questions about the staff characteristics, pharmacology content, teacher's concepts, and common practices and resources that were used in pharmacology classes. RESULTS: Our results revealed that the medical schools had similar overall curriculums. Pharmacology teachers work more than 30hs a week (75%) and conducted both research and teaching (62.5%). We also found that the multimedia projector was the most common resource (71.9%), and passive pedagogical methodologies (e.g., expository classes) remain a current strategy in pharmacology classes (89.9%). In general, medical students are poorly motivated (55%), which may be related to their performance in assessments. In addition, students believe that pharmacology is a complex (52%) or very complex subject (46%) since for its full understanding the student needs concepts from other disciplines, which can have an impact on the performance and motivation of students. As a result, these medical students do not fully understand the integration between pharmacology's basic concepts and their clinical applications. CONCLUSION: These data seem to demonstrate that the adopted teaching and learning pharmacology strategies and methodologies can be improved in Rio de Janeiro.

Bacterial Detection, Deformation, and Torque Loss on Dental Implants with Different Tapered Connections Compared with External Hexagon Connection after Thermomechanical Cycling.

The relationship between bacterial infiltration and internal conical Implant-Abutment Interfaces (IAIs) with different conicities still requires investigations that can offer valuable information in the clinical understanding of peri-implant health. The present study aimed to verify the bacterial infiltration of two internal conical connections with an angulation of 11.5° and 16° with the external hexagonal connection as a comparative after thermomechanical cycling using saliva as a contaminant. Test (n = 10) and control (n = 3) groups were set up. Evaluations were made on torque loss, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Micro Computerized Tomography (MicroCT) after performing 2 × 106 mechanical cycles (120 N) and 600 thermal cycles (5°-55° C) with 2 mm lateral displacement. The contents of the IAI were collected for microbiological analysis. There was a difference (p < 0.05) in torque loss of the groups tested; groups from the 16° IAI obtained a lower percentage of torque loss. All groups presented contamination and the analysis of the results shows that the microbiological profile of the IAI differs qualitatively from the profile found in the saliva used for contamination. The mechanical loading affects the microbiological profile found in the IAIs (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the IAI environment may favor a microbiological profile different from that of saliva and the thermocycling condition may alter the microbial profile found in the IAI.

Mechanical Properties, Wear Resistance, and Reliability of Two CAD-CAM Resin Matrix Ceramics.

Background and Objectives: There are limited data regarding the behavior of resin matrix ceramics for current CAD-CAM materials. Further studies may be beneficial and can help clinicians planning to use these materials during prosthodontic rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the flexural strength and strain distributions, filler content, wear, and reliability of two resin matrix ceramic CAD-CAM materials. Materials and Methods: Two resin matrix ceramics, Ambarino High-Class (AH) and Vita Enamic (VE), were tested for flexural strength (n = 24), wear (n = 10), and reliability (n = 18). Thermogravimetric analysis was used to determine the percentage of filler by weight, and digital image correlation (DIC) was used for strain analysis in flexural strength test. Reliability of each resin matrix ceramic was compared after accelerated lifetime testing of crowns using a two-parameter Weibull distribution. Data of flexural strength, wear, and thermogravimetry were analyzed by independent t-tests with significance level at 5%. Results: The results of DIC analysis were analyzed by a qualitative comparison between the images obtained. The materials tested showed different flexural strength (p < 0.05) and strain distributions. The filler content was the same as informed by manufacturers. No difference was observed in the wear or reliability analysis (p > 0.05). The flexural strength of material AH was superior to VE, and the strain distribution was compatible with this finding. Conclusions: The two resin matrix ceramics tested showed similar behavior in wear and reliability analysis. Both can provide safe use for dental crowns.

Fish Protein Hydrolysates: Bioactive Properties, Encapsulation and New Technologies for Enhancing Peptides Bioavailability.

Fish protein hydrolysates (FPHs) can be obtained from substrates such as fish muscle, skin, and wastes and assign value to these fish by-products. Proteolytic enzymes catalyze the hydrolysis of these fish substrates' peptide bonds resulting in smaller peptides that present several bioactive properties. Hydrolysates' bioactive properties are a function of the fish species used as the substrate, the enzyme selectivity or specificity, pH and temperature applied in the reaction, etc. Furthermore, many pre-treatment methods are being applied to fish protein substrates to improve their enzyme susceptibility and increase the number of smaller bioactive peptides. This review addresses the production of FPHs and the main bioactive properties evaluated recently in the literature and emphasizes the substrate treatments by high-pressure processing, microwave, ultrasound, and thermal treatments to achieve better bioactivity making essential amino acids more available in peptides. The bioactive properties most found in FPHs were antioxidants, antimicrobials, anticancer, and antihypertensive. These bioactivities may vary depending on the conditions of hydrolysis, fish species, and fractionation and isolation of specific peptides.New technologies for the treatment of by-products can reduce process losses and achieve better results by cleavage of proteins. Conversely, encapsulation and film utilization can improve bioactivity, bioavailability, and controlled release when applied to foods, resulting in improved health.

Rhinella major (Anura: Bufonidade): a new paratenic host of Centrorhynchus sp. (Palaeacanthocephala: Centrorhynchidae) in Brazilian Amazon.

Acanthocephalans are grouped in a single phylum, having a cosmopolitan distribution and subdivided into several genera. Although species of this parasite genus have birds and mammals as definitive hosts, they have been reported in amphibians and reptiles, and have been noted as paratenic hosts. In this study we report the record of Rhinella major as a new paratenic host for the Centrorhynchus sp. from an urban area of the Brazilian Amazon. In this study, for the morphometric measurements to take place, the parasitic specimens found were fixed and preserved in an alcoholic liquid medium and the identification of the parasites found were confirmed by specialized literature. The parasitological statistical parameters followed the proposed ecological concepts, calculating the parasite prevalence, intensity, average intensity and average abundance indices with confidence intervals. In the present study, two morphotypes of Acontochephala were found parasitizing R. major. In this study we report the record of R. major as a new paratenic host for the Centrorhynchus sp.

Cannabidiol for the treatment of refractory epilepsy in children: a critical review of the literature / Canabidiol para o tratamento de epilepsia refratária em crianças: uma revisão crítica da literatura

Abstract Objective: The aim of this current report was to present a critical review of the use of cannabidiol (CBD) in the treatment of refractory epilepsies in the pediatric population. Data source: Literature review was carried out in the Medline (PubMed), Cochrane, and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) databases with the descriptors "Cannabidiol" and "Epilepsy." The search was not limited by the date of publication, language, or study design. A total of 69 articles were included in the review. Data synthesis: The efficacy of CBD in treating epileptic seizures has been confirmed by randomized controlled trials for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex. The incidence of side effects reported in subjects of the studies is high. However, most studies indicate a good safety profile and tolerance to the drug, with most of the adverse effects being mild to moderate and transient. Conclusions: There is no consensus on the release of CBD as a therapeutic tool by the drug regulatory agencies worldwide. However, the use of CBD is promising since it has presented satisfactory results in crisis control in well-designed studies. In addition, this drug has a good safety and tolerance profile. However, further studies with a long follow-up period are needed to confirm its usefulness and the long-term safety in pediatric patients.

RESUMO Objetivo: Apresentar uma revisão crítica do uso de canabidiol no tratamento de epilepsias refratárias na população pediátrica. Fontes de dados: Revisão da literatura realizada nas bases de dados Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline/PubMed), Cochrane e Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), com os descritores "cannabidiol" e "epilepsy". A busca não foi limitada por data de publicação, idioma ou desenho do estudo. Sessenta e nove artigos foram incluídos na revisão. Síntese dos dados: A eficácia do canabidiol no tratamento de crises epilépticas foi confirmada por ensaios clínicos randomizados para síndrome de Lennox-Gastaut, síndrome de Dravet e complexo de esclerose tuberosa. A incidência de efeitos colaterais relatados nos indivíduos dos estudos é alta. No entanto, a maioria dos estudos indica um bom perfil de segurança e tolerância ao medicamento, com efeitos adversos leves a moderados e transitórios. Conclusões: Não há consenso sobre a liberação do canabidiol como ferramenta terapêutica nas diversas agências reguladoras de medicamentos em todo o mundo. Entretanto, seu uso é promissor, uma vez que apresentou resultados satisfatórios no controle de crises em estudos bem delineados. Além disso, esse medicamento apresenta um bom perfil de segurança e tolerância. No entanto, mais estudos com longo período de acompanhamento são necessários para confirmar sua utilidade e sua segurança em longo prazo em pacientes pediátricos.

Mansoa alliacea extract improves the growth performance and innate immune response of Arapaima gigas challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila and handling stress / Extrato de Mansoa alliacea melhora o desempenho de crescimento e resposta imunológica de Arapaima gigas desafiado com Aeromonas hydrophila e estresse de manejo

This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with Mansoa alliacea hydroalcoholic extracts on growth, blood and immune parameters of Arapaima gigas. Fish were fed for 30 days with diets enriched with 0, 4, 8, and 12 g kg-1 of M. alliacea hydroalcoholic extract and subjected to infection with Aeromonas hydrophila and handling stress. Fish fed with 8 g kg-1 of extract showed significant increase in final weight, specific growth rate and feed efficiency when compared to the other groups. Glucose, triglycerides, total proteins, and globulins increased significantly in fish fed with 8 g kg-1 of extract, whereas albumin decreased. The number of thrombocytes increased significantly with the dietary supplementation of 8 and 12 g kg-1 of extract. After the challenge with A. hydrophila and handling stress, fish fed with 8 g kg-1 of extract had significantly higher levels of glucose, globulins, and albumins, and fish fed with 8 and 12 g kg-1 of extract showed an increment of respiratory burst. Triglyceride levels dropped significantly in fish fed with 4, 8, and 12 g kg-1 of extract, whereas the number of neutrophils increased, and total thrombocytes, leukocytes and lymphocytes were higher in fish fed with 12 g kg-1 of extract. Dietary supplementation with M. alliacea extract at 8 g kg-1 was efficient in improving the growth and innate immunity of A. gigas, being potentially useful in fish farming to control the development of A. hydrophila infections.(AU)

Investigou-se os efeitos da suplementação com extrato hidroalcólico de Mansoa alliacea sobre o crescimento e parâmetros sanguíneos e imunológicos de Arapaima gigas. Os peixes foram alimentados por 30 dias com dietas enriquecidas com 0, 4, 8 e 12 g kg-1 de extrato hidroalcoólico de M. alliacea e submetidos à infecção por Aeromonas hydrophila e estresse de manejo. Os peixes alimentados com 8 g kg-1 de extrato apresentaram aumento significativo no peso final, taxa de crescimento específico e eficiência alimentar quando comparados aos demais grupos. Glicose, triglicerídeos, proteínas totais e globulinas aumentaram significativamente nos peixes alimentados com 8 g kg-1 de extrato, enquanto a albumina diminuiu. O número de trombócitos aumentou significativamente com a suplementação dietética de 8 e 12 g kg-1 de extrato. Após infecção com A. hydrophila e estresse de manejo, os peixes alimentados com 8 g kg-1 de extrato apresentaram níveis significativamente mais altos de glicose, globulinas e albuminas, e os peixes alimentados com 8 e 12 g kg-1 de extrato apresentaram incremento de explosão respiratória. Os níveis de triglicerídeos decresceram nos peixes alimentados com 4, 8 e 12 g kg-1 de extrato, enquanto o número de neutrófilos aumentou, e o número total de trombócitos, leucócitos e linfócitos foi maior nos peixes alimentados com 12 g kg-1 de extrato. A suplementação com a 8 g kg-1 de extrato de M. alliacea foi eficiente em melhorar o crescimento e a imunidade inata de A. gigas, sendo potencialmente útil na piscicultura para controlar o desenvolvimento de infecções por A. hydrophila.(AU)

Y-TZP Physicochemical Properties Conditioned with ZrO2 and SiO2 Nanofilms and Bond Strength to Dual Resin Cement.

Commercial Yttria-tetragonal zirconia polycrystalline (Y-TZP) was subjected to surface treatments, and the bond strength of dual resin cement to Y-TZP and failure modes were evaluated. Disks (12 mm × 2 mm), cylinders (7 mm × 3.3 mm), and bars (25 mm × 5 mm × 2 mm) were milled from Y-TZP CAD-CAM blocks, divided into seven groups, and subjected to different surface treatments; silicatization was used as control. On the basis of the literature, this study evaluated modifications with films containing SiO2 nanoparticles and silane; SiO2+ZrO2­SiO2 (50%) and ZrO2 (50%) nanoparticles, SiO2+ZrO2/Silane-SiO2 (50%) and ZrO2 (50%) nanoparticles, and silane. Specimens were analyzed by wettability (n = 3), surface free energy (n = 3), X-ray diffraction (n = 1), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) (n = 1), roughness (n = 5), shear bond test (n = 10), and dynamic modulus (n = 3). Specimens treated with hydrofluoric acid­HF 40% presented significantly higher contact angle and lowest surface free energy (p < 0.05). The SiO2/Silane presented crystalline SiO2 on the surface. The surface roughness was significantly higher for groups treated with nanofilms (p < 0.05). Shear bond strength was significantly higher for silicatization, HF 40%/silicatization, SiO2/Silane, and SiO2+ZrO2/Silane groups. The proposed treatments with nanofilms had potentially good results without prejudice to the physicochemical characteristics of zirconia. Generally, groups that underwent silica surface deposition and silanization had better bond strength (p < 0.005).

Translucency and mechanical behavior of partially stabilized monolithic zirconia after staining, finishing procedures and artificial aging.

Partially stabilized zirconia (5Y-PSZ) has been widely used to manufacture indirect monolithic restorations, and the effect of finishing procedures on the optical and mechanical properties of these materials are still unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of staining, polishing and glazing on surface roughness, crystalline phase content, microhardness, fracture toughness, dynamic elastic modulus, three-point flexural strength, strain distribution, color (∆E00/∆L/∆a/∆b), and translucency before and after artificial accelerated aging (water spray and ultraviolet) of 5Y-PSZ. Bar-shaped and rectangle-shaped specimens of the 5Y-PSZ were prepared and divided into six groups, according to finishing procedure: GC (control), GS (staining), GG (glazing), GSG (staining and glazing), GP (polishing), GSP (staining and polishing). There was a significant difference between groups for surface roughness (p < 0.05), dynamic elastic modulus (p = 0.007), microhardness (p = < 0.05), ∆E00 (p = 0.010), and ∆a (p = 0.008). GC presented higher cubic phase content, and the stained groups (GS, GSG and GSP) presented higher monoclinic content. The different finishing procedures affected roughness, dynamic elastic modulus, microhardness, and color of 5Y-PSZ; polishing being the finish that provides minors changes to the 5Y- PSZ. Accelerated artificial aging caused color change, regardless of finishing procedure used.

Cannabidiol for the treatment of refractory epilepsy in children: a critical review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this current report was to present a critical review of the use of cannabidiol (CBD) in the treatment of refractory epilepsies in the pediatric population. DATA SOURCE: Literature review was carried out in the Medline (PubMed), Cochrane, and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) databases with the descriptors "Cannabidiol" and "Epilepsy." The search was not limited by the date of publication, language, or study design. A total of 69 articles were included in the review. DATA SYNTHESIS: The efficacy of CBD in treating epileptic seizures has been confirmed by randomized controlled trials for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex. The incidence of side effects reported in subjects of the studies is high. However, most studies indicate a good safety profile and tolerance to the drug, with most of the adverse effects being mild to moderate and transient. CONCLUSIONS: There is no consensus on the release of CBD as a therapeutic tool by the drug regulatory agencies worldwide. However, the use of CBD is promising since it has presented satisfactory results in crisis control in well-designed studies. In addition, this drug has a good safety and tolerance profile. However, further studies with a long follow-up period are needed to confirm its usefulness and the long-term safety in pediatric patients.

Immune response in sexual inverted and non-inverted Nile tilapia fingerlings supplemented with organic acid and essential oil.

The development and intensification of tilapia farming depends on the manipulation of some physiological functions, such as the sexual inversion of larvae using a synthetic androgen (17α-methyltestosterone). This inversion, however, may represent a potential oxidative stress factor and cause damage to animals in the short, medium, and long term. Dietary supplementation of natural antioxidant compounds is an interesting alternative to combat such damage. To test this hypothesis, an experimental trial was carried out involving sexual inverted and non-inverted Nile tilapia fingerlings, both supplemented and not supplemented with a blend of organic acids and essential oils protected by microencapsulation. Animals were divided into four experimental groups: NI (non-inverted animals), I (sexual inverted animals), NI + M (non-inverted animals supplemented with microcapsules), and I + M (sexual inverted animals supplemented with microcapsules). Blood parameters (WBC - white blood cells; LY - lymphocytes; RBC - red blood cells; HGB - hemoglobin; HCT - hematocrit number; MCH - mean corpuscular hemoglobin; MCV - mean corpuscular volume and MCHC - mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration), as well as oxidative stress markers (enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase - SOD and catalase - CAT; and total antioxidant capacity - 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH)) and gene expression (heat shock protein 70 kDa - HSP70) were evaluated. The HGB (p < 0.001) and HCT (p = 0.005) parameters were reduced beyond the recommended limits for the animals in group I. The MCV varied statistically between the groups (p < 0.001). However, all values were within the recommended range for the species, jointly indicating normocytic anemia in group I fingerlings at the time of collection. The activity of CAT and SOD, as well as DPPH differed statistically between the experimental groups (p < 0.001), with the lowest SOD and CAT activity, as well as the highest DPPH registered in animals supplemented with microcapsules. The expression of HSP70 was lower in I + MI animals (p < 0.001). The synergistic evaluation of the results indicates that animals sexual inverted during the larval stage have a lower total antioxidant capacity in the fingerling stage, which reflects a worsening in hematological and enzymatic parameters related to immunity; and that dietary supplementation with blend of organic acids and essential oils protected by microencapsulation is sufficient to improve the immunological response both in sexual inverted and non-inverted fingerlings.

Fatty Acid Incorporation in the Muscle, Oxidative Markers, Lipid Peroxidation and PPAR-α and SREBP-2 Expression of Zebrafish Fed Linseed Oil and Clove Leaf Essential Oil.

The objective of this study is to assess, in zebrafish, the effects of combining linseed oil (LO) and clove leaf essential oil (CLEO) on the incorporation of fatty acids in the muscle, oxidative markers, lipid peroxidation and expression of the PPAR-α (Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-α) and the SREBP-2 (Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein-2) genes. Six diets were prepared, containing combinations of LO (3, 6 and 9%) and CLEO (0.5 and 1%): 3% LO + 0.5% CLEO; 3% LO + 1% CLEO; 6% LO + 0.5% CLEO; 6% LO + 1% CLEO; 9% LO + 0.5% CLEO; 9% LO + 1% CLEO. Results showed increase in the incorporation of n-3 fatty acids in the muscle concomitantly with the addition of LO and CLEO. The activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase were reduced and the glutathione content had increased. Lipid peroxidation was lower in the treatment with 1% CLEO, regardless of LO content. The expression of the PPAR-α and the SREBP-2 genes was higher in animals fed 9% LO + 0.5% CLEO. Therefore, for a greater incorporation and protection against the oxidative damages of n-3 fatty acids, a combined use of 9% LO with 0.5% CLEO is recommended for zebrafish.