Control of Rhipicephalus microplus on taurine cattle with fluralaner in a subtropical region.

BACKGROUND: In Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, a region with a subtropical climate, Rhipicephalus microplus is present in taurine cattle raised for beef and milk. In addition, ticks resistant to multiple acaricides are present in this region. Recently, fluralaner (isoxazoline) was launched on the market. Thus, there is a need to evaluate the effects of fluralaner for the control of R. microplus on taurine cattle. In addition, occurrence of myiasis by Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae after tick parasitism and weight gain of cattle during the experimental period were evaluated. METHODS: Thirty naturally infested cattle were divided into two experimental groups: T01, treated with fluralaner (2.5 mg/kg) pour-on; T02, control. T01 received fluralaner on Days 0 (early summer in January), 42 and 84 (early autumn), whereas T02, a control group, received palliative treatment with a spray formulation when the group mean was ≥ 30 ticks. Counts of R. microplus females and calculation of the efficacy of fluralaner were performed on Days 3, 7, 14, 28, 35, 42, 56, 70, 84, 98, 112 and 126. The occurrence of myiasis was assessed throughout the study period. In addition, the weight, weight gain and daily weight gain of the animals were evaluated. RESULTS: In the 12 evaluations performed, the parasitic load of T01 was near zero. Fluralaner showed 99.5% efficacy on the 3rd day after the first treatment and 100% efficacy from Day 7 to Day 126. Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae (n = 6; p = 0.0251) were found only in the control group (T02). At the end of the study, the animals subjected to treatments with fluralaner gained 32.8 kg more than the animals in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Application of fluralaner in summer and autumn, with 42-day intervals between treatments, was effective to control R. microplus on taurine cattle, which also gained more weight than control cattle. Additionally, no cases of myasis were documented in animals treated with fluralaner.

Apparent digestibility and ingestive behavior of Nellore bulls with low and high residual feed intake.

The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between ingestive behavior, apparent digestibility, and residual feed intake (RFI) of finishing Nellore bulls fed a high concentrate diet. One hundred and twenty Nellore bulls, housed in individual pens, were evaluated in individual performance tests. The animals were fed a high concentrate diet (23:77 roughage/concentrate ratio). The animals were classified as low RFI, medium RFI, and high RFI. Data from ten animals from each group were used. Fecal production and nutrient digestibility were calculated using indigestible neutral detergent fiber as an internal marker. The feeding behavior was evaluated over 24 h by direct observation every 5 min. The most efficient animals (low RFI, 8.58 kg DM/day) consumed 27.62% less feed than the least efficient animals (high RFI, 10.95 kg DM/day). Animals with medium efficiency (mean RFI, 9.49 kg DM/day) consumed 15.39% less than high RFI. Nutrient digestibility coefficients were similar except for ether extract (P < 0.03) which was 8% greater for the high-RFI animals. No effect was observed for ingestive behavior (P > 0.05). Animals spent, on average, 3 h 28 min feeding, 7 h 32 min ruminating, and 13 h 40 min in idle time. In the present study, ingestive behavior and dry matter digestibility were not responsible for between-animal variation in residual feed intake in Nellore bulls fed a high concentrate diet.

Curcumin-rich extract from Central Brazil Curcuma longa protects human umbilical vein endothelial cells under oxidative stress / Extrato rico em Curcumina do Brasil Central Curcuma longa protege células endoteliais de veias umbilicais humanas sob estresse oxidativo

INTRODUCTION: In vascular diseases, the interruption of the local blood flow and the subsequent reperfusion of oxygen can cause deleterious oxidative effects on the cells. Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) presents the capacity to neutralize free radicals along with preventive and therapeutic effects for several diseases. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the bioactive compounds and the antioxidant capacity of the ethanolic extract of Curcuma (EEC), to evaluate its effect on human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and to analyze its effect on cellular signaling pathways. METHODS: Cells were exposed to different concentrations of EEC for 24, 48, and 72 h. Folin-Ciocalteau test, HPLC-Fluorescence analysis, and DPPH method were used to determine the phenolic compounds, curcumin content, and antioxidant action, respectively; the tetrazolium salt reduction to obtain cell viability, cytotoxicity, and the concentration that inhibits 50% of cell viability; and the immunocytochemistry technique to analyze the expression of caspase3, SIRT1, and mTOR. RESULTS: We found the presence of polyphenols in the classes of phenolic acids and curcuminoids in EEC, with 16.7% curcumin content. The number of antioxidants needed to reduce the initial DPPH concentration by 50% was 18.1 µmol/g. The extract mitigated cell damage at a dosage of 100 µg/ml, decreased the immunoexpression of caspase3, and promoted the signaling of the SIRT1 and mTOR survival pathways. CONCLUSION: EEC had a protective effect on human umbilical vein endothelial cells, subjected to oxidative stress, with decreased apoptosis (caspase3) at lower concentrations, cytoprotection by maintaining essential cell functions (mTOR), and signaling of the survival pathway (SIRT1).

INTRODUÇÃO: Em doenças vasculares, a interrupção do fluxo sanguíneo locale subsequente reperfusão de oxigênio pode causar efeitos deletérios e danos irreparáveis às células. Curcuma (Curcuma longa L.) neutraliza radicais livres além de apresentar efeitos preventivos e terapêuticos. OBJETIVO: Caracterizar os compostos bioativos e a capacidade antioxidante do extrato etanólico de cúrcuma (EEC); avaliar seu efeito nas células endoteliais da veia umbilical humana, e analisar a expressão de vias de sinalização celular. MÉTODOS: As células foram expostas a diferentes concentrações de EEC por 24, 48 e 72 horas. Utilizamos o teste de Folin-Ciocalteau, análise por HPLC-Fluorescência e método DPPH para determinar os compostos fenólicos, conteúdo de curcumina e ação antioxidante, respectivamente; o método de redução de tetrazólio para viabilidade celular, a citotoxicidade e a concentração que inibe 50% da viabilidade celular; e a técnica de imunocitoquímica para analisar a expressão de caspase3, SIRT1 e mTOR. RESULTADOS: Observou-se presença de polifenóis nas classes de ácidos fenólicos e curcuminóides no EEC, com teor de curcumina de 16,7%. A quantidade de antioxidante necessária para reduzir a concentração inicial de DPPH em 50% foi de 18,1 µmol/g. O extrato mitigou o dano celular na dosagem de 100 µg/ml, diminuiu a imunoexpressão da caspase3 e promoveu a sinalização das vias de sobrevivência SIRT1 e mTOR. CONCLUSÃO: O EEC teve efeito protetor nas células endoteliais de veia umbilical humana, submetidas ao estresse oxidativo, com diminuição da apoptose (caspase3) em concentrações mais baixas, citoproteção pela manutenção das funções celulares essenciais (mTOR) e sinalização da via de sobrevivência (SIRT1).

Standardized ileal digestibility of amino acids of protein sources associated with exogenous enzymes for broilers.

OBJECTIVE: Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of enzyme complex (EC) on the standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of amino acids (AA) in corn gluten meal (60%) (CGM), soy protein concentrate (SPC), dried bovine plasma (DBP), and poultry offal meal (POM). Experiments I and II were conducted with broilers in the pre-starter (1 to 7 days of age) and starter (1 to 21 days of age) phases, respectively. METHODS: The treatments consisted of a protein-free diet (PFD) containing feedstuffs either supplemented with EC (xylanase, amylase, and protease) or not. In Experiment I, a total of 360 one-day-old male Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly housed in 45 pens, resulting in five replicates with eight birds each, totalizing eight treatments and one PFD group. In Experiment II a total of 270 one-day-old male Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly housed in 45 pens, resulting in five replicates with six birds each, totalizing eight treatments and one PFD group. The PFD groups were used to assess the endogenous AA losses. The birds were slaughtered to collect the ileal content. RESULTS: In the pre-starter phase, the SID of arginine, branched chain-aminoacids, glycine, serine, aspartate, and glutamic acid increased with EC addition. The EC improved the SID of arginine and glutamic acid of CGM; the SID of valine and cystine of SPC; the SID of leucine, glycine, and aspartate of POM and the SID of isoleucine of DBP. In the starter phase, the SID of isoleucine, phenylalanine and glycine increased in EC-supplemented diets. The EC improved the SID of isoleucine of DBP; the SID of phenylalanine of CGM and POM. The SID of AA of SPC was not influenced by the EC. CONCLUSION: The addition of an EC to broiler pre-starter and starter diets is efficient in increasing the SID of AA on SPC, POM, and DBP.

Blood biochemical parameters and organ development of brown layers fed reduced dietary protein levels in two rearing systems.

OBJECTIVE: An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of different levels of crude protein (CP) and two rearing systems (cage and floor), on blood parameters and digestive and reproductive organ development of brown laying hens. METHODS: A total of 400 Hisex Brown laying hens between 30 and 45 weeks of age were distributed in a completely randomized design and a 2×4 factorial arrangement, with main effects including two rearing systems (cage and floor) and levels of CP (140, 150, 160, and 180 g/kg), in a total of eight treatments and five replicates of 10 birds each with initial body weight of 1,877 g (laying hen in cage) and 1,866 g (laying hens in floor). The parameters evaluated were plasma total protein, albumin, uric acid, total cholesterol, relative weights of oviduct, abdominal fat, liver, gizzard, crest and dewlap, length of small intestine and oviduct. RESULTS: The blood parameters were similar in birds reared in cage and floor systems. The birds reared on the floor showed greater small intestine and oviduct weight (%) and lower liver and pancreas weight (%). A significant interaction was observed between factors for the relative gizzard, crest and dewlap weight, serum protein, uric acid, and total cholesterol (p<0.05). The diets with 140 g/kg CP resulted in lower serum protein and lower cholesterol in birds reared in floor system, while birds reared in cage system showed no effect of CP on both parameters. Birds reared in cage and fed with 140 and 150 g/kg CP presented lower uric acid. The group of birds reared in floor system fed 180 g/kg had greater uric acid. CONCLUSION: The dietary protein level can be reduced up to 140 g/kg for Hisex Brown hens (30 to 45 weeks of age) without an important effect on metabolic profile and organ development in both rearing systems.

Spatial distribution and risk factors for sheep toxoplasmosis in Goiás, Brazilian Cerrado Region.

The present study aimed to evaluate the spatial distribution and risk factors for infection by Toxoplasma gondii in sheep in the state of Goiás, located in the central-western region of Brazil. Through the immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT), the seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies was analyzed in 1000 blood serum samples obtained from sheep in all macro and micro regions of the state of Goiás. Data related to sex, age of the animals, size of the farm, type of farm, water source, veterinary assistance, replacement of the herd, presence of domestic cats, presence of wild cats and presence of other wild animals were obtained at the sampling time. The differences between the seroprevalences obtained in relation to the variables analyzed were estimated using Pearson's chi-square test (χ2). The odds ratio (OR) values for each risk factor evaluated were statistically analyzed with a confidence interval of 95%. Positivity for IgG anti-T. gondii was observed (titer ≥64) in 34.3% (343/1000) of the samples, which ranged from 26.9% (31/115) to 44.2% (53/120) and from 21.8 (12/55) to 55.2% (16 / 29), respectively in the analyzed mesoregions and microregions. In all investigated regions of the State of Goiás, serum-reactive animals were detected with the age of the animals, the source of water, the form of replacement of the herd and the presence of domestic cats and wild animals risk factors statistically associated with the occurrence of T. gondii in animals.

Comparison between the Mission Plus device and gold standard methods for measuring hemoglobin concentrations and packed cell volumes in cattle.

BACKGROUND: A point-of-care device that can provide immediate and reliable hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations and packed cell volumes (PCVs) would be useful in veterinary medicine. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to compare the use of a human device (Mission Plus; MP) with a gold standard (GS) method for measuring Hb concentrations and PCVs in cattle blood. METHODS: Blood samples from clinically healthy cattle (n = 122) were collected with or without an anticoagulant (K2 EDTA). The GS and MP methods were compared with correlation coefficients. Passing-Bablok regression analyses were also performed, and the acceptability judgment was completed using Bland-Altman plots. RESULTS: The CVmax for Hb values obtained using the GS method, the MP device without K2 EDTA, and the MP device with K2 EDTA were approximately 2.70%, 1.70%, and 2.0%, respectively, whereas the CVmax for PCVs was 0.90%, 1.83%, and 2.05%, respectively. A positive correlation (97.5% confidence interval) was observed between the Hb concentrations and PCV values detected using the MP and GS techniques in blood with and without K2 EDTA. Bland-Altman plots showed agreement between the MP and GS methods. For Hb using blood collected with or without the addition of K2 EDTA, the mean differences were -0.87 g/dL (95% CI: 1.35; -3.96) and 0.08 g/dL (95% CI: 2.16, -1.99), respectively. For PCVs using blood collected with or without the addition of K2 EDTA, the mean differences were -3.75% (95% CI: 0.61. -8.12) and -0.88% (95% CI: 2.86, -4.62), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The MP device can be used to analyze Hb concentrations and PCVs in bovine blood to assist in field diagnoses.

Investigation of fecal egg counts versus worm burden and helminth fauna in cattle treated or not with macrocyclic lactones in a tropical region.

Gastrointestinal nematodes negatively impact the health and productivity of livestock. Macrocyclic lactones (MLs) are the most common class of chemicals used in helminth control programs, however, their intense use is accelerating the development of parasite resistance. For cattle, little is known regarding the relationship between fecal egg counts (FECs) and the helminth population inside the animal's gastrointestinal tract and so this study evaluated the correlation between FEC and worm burden in cattle treated or not with MLs (ivermectin 200 µg/kg, ivermectin 630 µg/kg, abamectin 200 µg/kg, doramectin 700 µg/kg and moxidectin 200 µg/kg). Animals were necropsied to determine if there were any modifications to the proportions of worm species due to chemical treatment. FECs of ML-treated and untreated animals showed significant (p ≤ 0.05 and R2 ≥0.70) positive linear correlations and substantial or perfect strength-of-agreement (LCCC ≥ 0.61) with total worms present, all of which were Haemonchus placei and Cooperia punctata. However, this correlation and strength-of-agreement did not occur when the efficacy of MLs was ≥80 % against these helminths. Among the active MLs tested, moxidectin had the weakest relationship between FEC and worm burden, except for H. placei. Analysis of the helminthological fauna found an increase of H. placei (35.6 % = 95 % CI 35.4-35.6) and a consequent decrease of C. punctata (52.5 % = 95 % CI 52.3-52.6) in untreated animals, when compared to studies carried out over 20-40 years ago, but this proportion was reversed for ML-treated animals (C. punctata 64.5 % = 95 % CI 64.4-64.8; H. placei 30.8 % = 95 % CI 30.6-30.8). It is possible that MLs mitigate this effect in the field and that C. punctata remained prevalent in cattle in different regions of Brazil.

Lipid stability of egg and laying performance of Japanese quail feed with extract of guava (Psidium guajava L.).

Two experiments were conducted in order to evaluate the effect of dietary inclusion of guava extract on laying performance and lipid stability of egg of Japanese quails. For the first experiment, 384 Japanese quails with 42 days old were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments (0.0; 3.0; 6.0; 9.0 g.kg-1 guava extract), 6 replicates, and 16 birds/replicate. The experimental period lasted 84 days, divided into 4 cycles of 21 days. The parameters evaluated were: feed consumption, egg production, egg mass, feed conversion ratio, egg weight, and egg internal and external qualities. On the second experiment, 400 eggs from Japanese quails fed with diets containing four levels of guava extract were distributed in a completely randomized design with a 4x4 factorial arrangement (guava extract levels and storage time: 0, 9, 18, 27 days) with 5 replicates. Analysis of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances was performed on egg yolks. Data were submitted to regression analysis, using α=0.05. On the first experiment, the laying performance parameters were not influenced by the inclusion of guava extract in the feed, and eggshell thickness decreased linearly. On the second experiment an interaction was observed between the studied factors, affecting lipid oxidation in egg yolks. At nine days of storage, there was a quadratic effect of levels of dietary guava extract on lipid oxidation of yolk, being observed that using 4.8 g.kg-1 of guava extract on feed results in less lipid oxidation.

Effect of dietary inclusion of guanidinoacetic acid on broiler performance / Efecto de la inclusión dietética del ácido guanidinoacético en el desempeño de pollos de engorde / Efeito da inclusão dietética do ácido guanidinoacético no desempenho de frangos de corte

Abstract Background: Creatine and its precursor, guanidinoacetic acid (GAA), decrease protein degradation, avoiding amino acid offset to gluconeogenesis. Objective: To evaluate the inclusion of GAA in the pre-initial diet (1 to 7 days) on performance, digestibility, and blood parameters of broilers from one to 21 days of age. Methods: 252 male broiler chickens aged one day were distributed in a completely randomized design with seven replicates and 12 animals per experimental unit. Treatments consisted of a basal diet, and the basal added with 0.10 and 0.20% GAA. Results: From days 1 to 7, a tendency on improved feed conversion (FC) was observed for broilers receiving 0.20% GAA (p<0.10). Between 7 and 14 days, FC improved, as well as a tendency was observed on improved weight gain in animals fed 0.20% GAA. Animals that received 0.20% GAA showed higher blood concentrations of creatine kinase. Blood creatine and blood glucose did not differ between treatments at day six. The assimilation coefficient of crude protein increased during days 3 to 7 for animals receiving 0.20% GAA. On the period between 17 and 21 days, no difference was observed between treatments. Intestinal weight and length did not show significant differences. Conclusion: Dietary inclusion of 0.20% GAA during the pre-initial stage could improve weight gain and feed conversion of broilers between 1 and 14 days of age.

Resumen Antecedentes: La creatina suministra energía y el ácido guanidinoacético (GAA) es su precursor y actúa como sustrato energético, reduciendo la degradación proteica y evitando el desvío de aminoácidos para gluconeogénesis. Objetivo: Evaluar el GAA en la dieta de pre-iniciación (1 a 7 dias) sobre el desempeño, la digestibilidad y los parámetros sanguíneos de pollos entre 1 y 21 dias de edad. Métodos: Se utilizaron 252 pollitos de engorde machos de un día de edad, distribuidos en un diseño completamente al azar, con siete repeticiones y 12 aves por unidad experimental. Los tratamientos consistieron en: ración basal y ración basal adicionada con 0,10 y 0,20% de GAA. Resultados: En el período de 1 a 7 días se observó una tendencia de mejora de la conversión alimenticia (FC) en las aves que recibieron 0,20% de GAA (p<0,10). De 7 a 14 días hubo mejoría en FC y tendencia de mejora en ganancia de peso de los animales que recibieron 0,20% de GAA. Los animales que recibieron 0,20% de GAA presentaron mayor concentración sanguínea de creatina quinasa. La creatinina y la glucosa sanguínea a los seis días no difirieron entre los tratamientos. El coeficiente de metabolización de la proteína bruta aumentó en el período de 3 a 7 días en los animales que recibieron 0,20% de GAA. Para el período de 17 a 21 días no hubo diferencia entre los tratamientos. Para peso y longitud del intestino no se presentaron diferencias significativas. Conclusión: El GAA a un nivel de 0,20% en la dieta pre- inicial podria mejorar la ganancia de peso, y la conversión alimenticia en el período de 1 a 14 días de edad en pollos de engorde.

Resumo Antecedentes: A creatina é uma substância que fornece energia e o ácido guanidinoacético (GAA) é seu precursor atuando como substrato energético, menor degradação proteica evitando o desvio de aminoácidos para gliconeogênese. Objetivo: Avaliar o GAA em dietas pré-iniciais sobre o desempenho, a digestibilidade e parâmetros sanguíneos. Métodos: Foram utilizados 252 pintos de corte machos de um a 21 dias de idade distribuído sem delineamento inteiramente casualizado, sete repetições e 12 aves por unidade experimental. Os tratamentos consistiram: ração basal e rações com 0,10 e 0,20% de GAA. Resultados: No período de 1 a 7 dias foi observada tendência de melhora da conversão alimentar (FC) (p<0,10) quando as aves receberam 0,20% de GAA. No período de 7 a 14 dias houve melhora na FC e tendência de melhora do ganho de peso dos animais que receberam 0,20% de GAA. Animais que receberam 0,20% de GAA apresentaram concentração sanguínea da enzima creatina quinase maior. A creatinina sanguínea aos seis dias e glicose sanguínea não diferiram entre os tratamentos. O coeficiente de metabolização da proteína bruta foi aumentado no período de 3 a 7 dias para animais que receberam 0,20% de GAA, para o período de 17 a 21 dias não houve diferença entre os tratamentos. Peso e comprimento do intestino não apresentaram diferenças significativas. Conclusão: O GAA em nível de 0,20% na dieta pré-inicial melhoram o ganho de peso, e a conversão alimentar no período de 1 a 14 dias de idade em frangos.

Effects of the Latex of Synadenium grantii Hook F. (Euphorbiaceae) on a Preclinical Model of Canine Prostate Cancer.

Prostatic cancer (PC) stands out in terms of its occurrence, pathophysiology, and unfavorable prognostics in humans and dogs. Natural drugs bear an integrative potential for conventional antineoplastic treatments. In this context, the bioproducts of Synadenium grantii have been empirically used in different parts of Brazil for the integrative treatment of prostate cancer in humans. However, there is no availability of scientific evidence of the antitumor effects of S. grantii. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the bioactive compounds in the latex of S. grantii using the high-resolution mass spectrophotometry (HRMS) and to evaluate its cytotoxic effects on primary canine PC cell cultures. Four fragments of phorbol ester were identified as potential bioactive compounds using the HRMS. With the help of an MTT ([3-(4,5-dimethyldiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide]) assay, two canine prostatic carcinoma cell lines (PC 1 and PC2) showed a decrease in the tumor cell count, with an Inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50)of 0.8469 and 0.6068 mg/ml, respectively, for PC1 and PC2. In conclusion, the latex of S. grantii contains phorbol esters in its composition, and its aqueous solution has a cytotoxic effect on canine metastatic PC cells in vitro.

Seroprevalence, spatial distribution and risk factors associated with Toxoplasma gondii infection among cattle in a quilombola community in the Brazilian cerrado.

Little is known about Toxoplasma gondii infection among cattle living in the Cerrado (Brazilian savanna) biome in Brazil. In particular, there is no epidemiological data relating to infection in quilombo lands, i.e. areas settled by Afro-descendants of escaped slaves. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, spatial distribution and risk factors associated with T. gondii infection among cattle in the Kalunga quilombo, in the Cerrado biome. Blood samples were collected from 1533 cattle for antibody detection using the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT). The study area was subdivided into five macroregions to determine the spatial distribution of infection. An objective questionnaire was applied to the cattle owners to evaluate risk factors, which were analyzed using univariate analysis and logistic regression. The prevalence of T. gondii infection among cattle was 8.93% (137/1533), and antibodies were found in 49.6% of the herds (66/133), in all macroregions. The risk factors associated with T. gondii infection in cattle were the following: number of animals in the herd (OR: 30.56), purchase of cattle (OR: 2.57), age group (OR: 1.95) and average annual temperature (OR: 1.77). Thus, the occurrence rate, spatial distribution and risk factors associated with T. gondii infection among cattle in the Kalunga quilombola community are documented here, for the first time.

Effects of plant extracts from Stryphnodendron adstringens (mart.) coville, Lafoensia pacari a. st.-hil, copaifera spp., and Pterodon emarginatus Vogel on in vitro rumen fermentation.

The effects of doses CTL (0 mg), 30, 300 and 3000 mg/L of extracts from Stryphnodendron adstringens (Mart.) Coville (SA), Lafoensia pacari A. St.-Hil (LP), Copaifera spp. (CO) and Pterodon emarginatus Vogel (PE) on ruminal fermentation were investigated in eight experiments conducted in randomized complete block designs. The in vitro system contained four fermentation vessels. Each treatment was allocated in one vessel in each run. Incubation was run four and five times with diets 50:50 and 10:90 (roughage to concentrate ratio) respectively. Incubation vessel was the experimental unit, and each incubation run was a block. All plant extracts negatively affected DM degradation at 3000 mg/L. In diet 50:50, SA-3000 increased the molar proportion of propionate (p < 0.05), yet it decreased the concentration of fermentation products (p < 0.05); LP-300 reduced ruminal ammonia nitrogen (NH3 -N; 98 vs. 120 mg/dl for LP-300 and average of CTL and LP-30, respectively) and isobutyrate (p < 0.05); CO-300 reduced (p < 0.05) NH3 -N (98 vs. 123 mg/dl for CO-300 and average of CTL and CO-30, respectively); and P. emarginatus had no positive effects on rumen fermentation (p > 0.05). In diet 10:90, SA-300 reduced (p < 0.001) NH3 -N and total volatile fatty acids (VFA); LP-30 increased (p < 0.05) total VFA (85 vs. 63 mM for LP-30 and CTL, respectively), molar proportions of acetate and propionate, and had lower C2 :C3 than CTL (3.6 vs. 4.3, respectively); CO-300 decreased acetate and increased propionate, reducing C2 :C3 (p < 0.001; 2.8 vs. 3.6 for CO-300 and average of other doses, respectively); PE-30 and PE-300 reduced NH3 -N by 14% and increased total VFA by 29% compared with CTL (p < 0.05). Further in vivo investigations may consider L. pacari (LP-30), Copaifera spp. (CO-300) oleoresin and P. emarginatus oleoresin (PE-30 and PE-300) in diets with high inclusion of concentrate.

Ocular echobiometry and head measurements in Jersey cattle from different age groups.

A longitudinal study was conducted to identify the morphological development of eyes and head of Jersey cattle at different ages. A total of 48 healthy Jersey cattle, 1 to 58 months of age, were included in the study. Ophthalmologic examinations were performed to identify healthy cattle to form the age groups: GI (1- to 11-month-old), GII (16- to 24-month-old) and GIII (25- to 58-month-old). The animals were physically restrained and examined by transcorneal ultrasound of both eyes; the axial length (AxL), corneal thickness (CO), lenticular thickness (L), depth of the anterior (AC) and vitreous (VC) chambers were evaluated. The cranial measurements obtained included the total, cranial, and nasal lengths and widths. Subsequently, the cephalic index (CI) was calculated. The AxL (GI: 2.83 cm; GII: 3.16 cm; GIII: 3.24 cm), AC (GI: 0.44 cm; GII: 0.53 cm; GIII: 0.53 cm), L (GI: 0.88 cm; GII: 1.01 cm; GIII: 1.04 cm) and VC (GI: 1.44 cm; GII: 1.55 cm; GIII: 1.59 cm) increased (p ≤ .001) according to age, but the CO (GI: 0.07 cm; GII: 0.08 cm; GIII: 0.08 cm) (p > .05) did not. The total length (GI: 30.83 cm; GII: 43.29 cm; GIII: 44.15 cm), cranial length (GI: 18.11 cm; GII: 23.82 cm; GIII: 22.69 cm), nasal length (GI: 12.72 cm; GII: 19.47 cm; GIII: 21.46 cm) and nasal width (GI: 26.22 cm; GII: 33.82 cm; GIII: 34.00 cm) increased (p < .001), and the CI (GI: 85.66 cm; GII: 78.15 cm; GIII: 77.02 cm) decreased (p < .001). The AxL correlated positively (p < .001) with the cranial length and width and negatively with the CI (p > .05). The ocular biometry of Jersey cattle correlates with their cranial measurements at different ages. With increasing age, the eyes and the head grow, establishing growth curves similar to those of other mammals.

Results of hatching and rearing broiler chickens in different incubation systems.

Hatchery efficiency is based on hatchability and the number of salable chicks. The hatchery sector has been seeking new alternatives to optimize production rates, including the use of different systems (multistage [MS] or single-stage [SS] machines) to improve incubation conditions. The present study aimed to compare results for hatchability, chick quality, and broiler performance of chicks from 2 incubator systems-MS and SS. The experimental design for hatchability, hatch window, egg weight loss, and chick performance variables was completely randomized with 2 treatments (MS and SS). Performance variables were analyzed as a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement (incubator type x chick sex). Egg weight loss between incubation and transfer was higher for eggs incubated in MS (P < 0.05). Hatchability was higher for eggs incubated in SS (P < 0.05), and chicks in SS had a longer hatch window (P < 0.05). Embryo diagnosis revealed higher final mortality for embryos incubated in MS (P < 0.05), as well as higher percentages of alive and dead pipped and cracked eggs (P < 0.05). Physical quality was better for chicks from SS (P < 0.05). There was no interaction between the studied factors for performance results (P > 0.05). Incubator type did not affect broiler performance for any of the studied ages (P > 0.05), whereas male broilers had better performance than females (P < 0.05). The SS incubation system proved better than the MS system at meeting embryo requirements during embryo development, with better hatching rates and chick quality, although performance variables were not influenced by incubation type.

Cytotoxicity assessment of beta-lapachone in endothelial cells

The selective activity of an antineoplastic drug is related to its ability to promote cytotoxic action on tumor cells and preserve the integrity of non-neoplastic cells. Beta-lapachone is extracted from the sawdust of Ipe wood, a thick bark tree from the Ipe wood found in the Brazilian Cerrado biome. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic action of beta-lapachone in an endothelial cell line. The EA.hy926 cells were seeded in two groups, G1 and G2, cultured and exposed to beta-lapachone at concentrations of 0.0, 0.01, 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1 and 3 & 956;M for 24 hours. G1 remained under normal cultivation conditions and G2 was subjected to oxidative stress through an ischemia and reperfusion assay, in a deoxygenated sealed chamber. The cytotoxicity assay was performed using the tetrazolium reduction method. In G1, the cytotoxicity ranged from 0.0 to 10.0%; and in G2 between 0.0 and 6.3%. No statistically significant difference was observed between the obtained values. Moreover, we found no cytotoxic action of beta-lapachone on endothelial cells, and the results point out that the drug might have preserved the cell’s integrity against oxidative stress under the conditions of this experiment. This promising result suggests the possibility of beta-lapachone as a chemotherapy drug with selective activity.

Ethanolic extract of gabirobeira (Campomanesia adamantium) leaves reduces proliferation of osteosarcoma cells in vitro

Osteosarcoma is the most commonly diagnosed malignant bone tumor in humans, with a higher incidence in children and young people. It is highly aggressive and has a high metastatic potential. Its treatment is based on both chemotherapy and surgical intervention. However, currently used chemotherapeutic agents, such as doxorubicin, have several adverse effects on the patient. Therefore, there is a growing demand for new chemotherapeutic agents that stimulate new researches, such as those involving compounds extracted from plants, such as the gabirobeira. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of ethanolic extract, both crude and ethyl acetate, of gabirobeira leaves on osteosarcoma cells in vitro. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the Trypan blue exclusion method and the IC50 values were calculated using the tetrazolium reduction method. The ethanolic extract of gabirobeira leaves showed a cytotoxic effect on osteosarcoma cells in vitro. The group treated with the crude extract at 1. 0& 956;L mL-1 concentration for 48 hours showed higher cytotoxicity and the lowest IC50 value for this extract was found in the 24 to 48 hours interval. The ethanolic extract of gabirobeira leaves is cytotoxic for osteosarcoma cells.

Ozonized solutions favor the repair of experimentally induced skin wounds in rats / Soluções ozonizadas favorecem o reparo de feridas cutâneas experimentalmente induzidas em ratos

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of ozonized solutions on tissue wound repair in rats. Treatments consisted of ozonized water (GA), 0.9% sodium chloride (GCL), ozonized oil (GO), and 0.2% allantoin cream (GAL). The morphometric evaluation showed that wounds of the GA group presented a higher degree of retraction (p<0.05) at three and eight days of treatment (37.96 and 84.81%, respectively). Picrosirius red staining showed that groups GA and GO presented higher deposition (p<0.05) of type I collagen at 15 and 22 days of treatment, respectively. The neovascularization was higher in wounds of group GO on days 3, 8, and 15 (p<0.05), with higher VEGF immunostaining. (p<0.05). Thus, ozonized water enhances wound retraction and assists in the maturation and remodeling phase, while ozonized oil promotes higher neovascularization during tissue repair and higher deposition of type I collagen from the third week of treatment.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar e comparar os efeitos de soluções ozonizadas sobre o reparo tecidual de feridas em ratos. Foram realizados os tratamentos: água ozonizada (GA), cloreto de sódio 0,9% (GCL), óleo ozonizado (GO) e creme de alantoína 0,2% (GAL). À avaliação morfométrica, as feridas do grupo GA apresentaram maior grau de retração (p<0,05) aos três e oito dias de tratamento (37,96% e 84,81%, respectivamente). A coloração de picrosirius red mostrou que os grupos GA e GO apresentaram maior deposição (p<0,05) de colágeno do tipo I aos 15 e aos 22 dias de tratamento, respectivamente. Já a variável neovascularização foi maior (p<0,05) nas feridas do grupo GO nos dias três, oito e 15, o que fora ratificado à imunoistoquímica, com maior imunomarcação de VEGF nas feridas do grupo GO (p<0,05). Conclui-se que a água ozonizada potencializa a retração da ferida e auxilia na fase de maturação e remodelamento, enquanto o óleo ozonizado promove maior neovascularização durante o reparo tecidual e maior deposição de colágeno do tipo I a partir da terceira semana de tratamento.(AU)

Intravitreal Triamcinolone Acetonide Injection in a Rodent Model of Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy.

INTRODUCTION: The management of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy centers around prevention of second eye involvement, without a uniformly accepted therapy for the involved eye. Several researchers have assessed the benefit of steroids with conflicting results. This experimental study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of a single intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection (IVTA) in preserving retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in a rodent model of anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (rAION). METHODS: The rAION was induced in female Wistar rats. Animals were randomized into 3 groups: 1) untreated, 2) treated with 56 µg IVTA, and 3) intravitreal saline (placebo). Procedures were performed in the left eye, with the right eye serving as control. After 30 days, animals were sacrificed and eyes were assessed histologically for RGC number. RESULTS: The average number of RGC was significantly lower in rAION subgroups when compared with the control group (P < 0.001). No significant difference was seen between rAION eyes treated with IVTA, placebo, and untreated eyes (P > 0.05%). CONCLUSIONS: In this rodent model for AION, no therapeutic benefit of intravitreal steroid injection was identified.