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The objective of this study was to determine whether the addition of grape residue flour (GRF) in the diet of suckling lambs would improve their health and consequently enhance their growth. We used 48 lambs, 30 days of age divided into four treatments with four repetitions each, with each repetition consisting of three animals. The groups were identified as follows: G-0%, used as a control (without GRF) and G-0.5%, G-1% and G-2% referring to treatment with grape residue flour in doses of 0.5%, 1%, and 2% of inclusion in the concentrate, respectively. Lambs in groups G-1% and G-2% had higher final body weights, weight gain and average daily gain (ADG) compared to the other groups. GRF dietary supplementation had good antioxidant potential, being able to stimulate glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity and consequently reduce levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in lambs that consumed the highest dose of GRF (G-2%). GRF supplementation improved humoral responses, with increased serum levels of heavy-chain and light-chain immunoglobulins; however, there was a reduction in serum ceruloplasmin levels in these lambs. We observed higher concentrations of glucose and triglycerides in lambs in the 2% group. There were lower lymphocyte counts in lambs that received GRF. Lambs supplemented with the highest doses of GRF (G-1% and G-2%) had lower total bacterial counts in the feces. We conclude that the use of GRF in the supplementation of suckling lambs improved animal health, as it stimulated the antioxidant and immune systems and consequently favored their growth.

The pathophysiological mechanisms associated with immune responses to the opportunistic bacterial pathogen Providencia rettgeri in fish species are unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether purinergic signaling generates anti-inflammatory or pro-inflammatory profiles in lymphoid immune organs of the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) experimentally infected by P. rettgeri. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine diphosphate (ADP) hydrolysis activities in the spleen and triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (NTPDase) in the head kidney decreased in experimentally P. rettgeri-infected Nile tilapia on days seven and fourteen post-infection (PI) compared to the control group. At these same time points, splenic and head kidney adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity, and levels of ATP, interleukin-15 (IL-15) and metabolites of nitric oxide (NOx) increased in infected animals compared to their respective control groups; this was also observed for serum ATP levels. No significant difference was observed between groups regarding 5′-nucleotidase activity. These results suggest that purinergic signaling in lymphoid immune organs of Nile tilapia exerts a pro-inflammatory profile in response to P. rettgeri infection. This response contributes to the inhibition of immune and inflammatory responses by reduction of ATP hydrolysis and augmentation of ATP in the extracellular environment as well as augmentation in adenosine deamination and its possible reduction in the extracellular environment, leading to a self-sustained pro-inflammatory cycle, corroborated by excessive content of ATP (extracellular milieu), IL-15 and NOx levels. Purinergic signaling may thereby contribute to the pathophysiology of P. rettgeri infection.

The objective of this study was to determine whether the addition of acai (Euterpe oleracea) oil in the diets of lactating sheep under heat stress exerted beneficial effects on health as well as milk production and quality. Eighteen multiparous Lacaune sheep (2 or 3 parities; 28–30 days of lactation; average milk production of 1.7 L/sheep/day) were stratified by parity and milk production and were assigned randomly to 1 of 2 treatments (9 sheep/treatment): diet supplemented with 2% of soybean oil (SOY) or 2% of acai oil (ACAI) in the concentrate for 14 days. The amount of oil added in the diet was equivalent to 0.65% of the total diet (dry matter basis). Blood and milk samples were collected on days 1, 10 and 14. On day 14, the ACAI group sheep had lower serum concentrations of leukocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes than did the SOY group sheep. On day 14, ACAI group sheep had lower serum concentration of triglycerides and urea, milk concentration of fat and total solid and milk lipid peroxidation than did SOY group sheep. However, on day 14, ACAI group sheep had higher serum concentrations of glucose and globulin, serum and milk antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals, milk production and productive efficiency than did SOY group sheep. The fatty acids profile in milk did not differ between groups. These data suggest that acai oil improved the antioxidant activity in serum and milk and improved milk production and quality in dairy sheep under heat stress.

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the antiparasitic drug eprinomectin causes hepatic oxidative stress and impairment of hepatic energetic metabolism in the silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen), in conditions of experimental aquatic contamination. The fish were exposed for 24 and 48 h at various concentrations of eprinomectin (0.0, 1.124, 1.809 and 3.976 μg L−1), followed by 48 h of recovery in eprinomectin-free water. We measured levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipoperoxidation (LOOH) in hepatic tissue, as well as levels of antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (ACAP), and activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione S-transferase (GST), in addition to the activities of enzymes involved in energy metabolism, adenylate kinase (AK) and pyruvate kinase (PK). After 24 h, hepatic ROS levels increased in fish exposed to all concentrations of eprinomectin, and the same occurred with LOOH at the two highest concentrations of eprinomectin. ACAP levels decreased after 24 h of exposure to the highest concentration, also occurring with SOD activity at the two highest concentrations. Glutathione enzymes activities (GPx and GST) decreased after 48 h of exposure to the highest concentration. Fish transfer to eprinomectin-free water, with re-analysis after 48 h post-recovery, was unable to reverse ROS and LOOH increases, likewise with the reductions of ACAP, SOD, GPx and GST, especially at the two highest concentrations. AK and PK activities decreased after 48 h of exposure, AK decreased at the two highest concentrations and PK decreased at the highest concentration. AK activity remained lower after 48 h in eprinomectin-free water. PK activity returned to normal after 48 h in eprinomectin-free water. In summary, silver catfish exposed to aquatic contamination with the antiparasitic drug eprinomectin showed hepatic oxidative stress, possibly related to impairment of the phosphotransfer network and energy metabolism.

Bacterial diseases are one of the major problems in freshwater fish culture and have been linked to significant losses and high mortality rate. In this study, Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus was infected by Providencia rettgeri to evaluate the oxidative stress and antioxidant responses in the fish tissues. Juvenile Nile tilapia was divided into two groups, as follow: control (uninfected) and experimentally infected with 100 μL of P. rettgeri suspension containing 2.4 × 107 viable cells/fish, and the liver and kidney tissues were collected on days 7 and 14 post-infection (PI). Liver and kidney ROS and lipid peroxidation levels were high in infected fish on day 14 PI compared to control group, while superoxide dismutase activity was lower in liver (days 7 and 14 PI) and kidney (day 14 PI) compared to their respective control groups. Liver and kidney antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals, non-proteic, and proteic thiols levels was lower in infected tilapia on day 14 PI compared to control group. Based on these results, P. rettgeri infection may elicit oxidative damage via increased ROS production, decreased ROS elimination and inhibits enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense systems; which may contribute directly to disease pathophysiology of infected animals.

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether antiparasitic eprinomectin may be an environmental contaminant in water compartment in low concentrations, negatively affecting neurotransmission and, consequently, the natural behavior of the jundia (Rhamdia quelen). Fish were randomly allocated in tanks and exposed for 24 and 48 h to eprinomectin concentrations in water [0.0 (Control), 1.124 (T1), 1.809 (T2) and 3.976 (T3) μg L−1], followed by 48 h of recovery in eprinomectin-free water, in order to evaluate the behavioral parameters, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the brain, as well as cerebral enzymatic activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and of the sodium-potassium ATPase pump (Na+/K+-ATPase). Especially at the two highest concentrations of eprinomectin (T2 and T3), the fish showed alterations in natural behavior, particularly hyperlocomotion and longer time on the surface. Furthermore, at these same concentrations, cerebral ROS levels increased and cerebral AChE activity decreased. At the highest concentration (T3) cerebral Na+/K+-ATPase activity was reduced. Increased ROS and impairment of AChE and Na+/K+-ATPase enzymes in the brain may have contributed directly to behavioral changes, due to neuronal damage and synapse impairment. Even after 48 h in water without eprinomectin, behavioral changes and neurotoxic effects were observed in fish, suggesting residual effects of the antiparasitic. In conclusion, eprinomectin even in low concentrations may be a hazardous environmental contaminant for aquatic organisms, as it causes brain damage and affects the natural behavior of fish.

Grape pomace is a by-product of the winemaking process, rich in bioactive compounds such as resveratrol and has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Recent evidence has demonstrated the protective effects of grape against impairment of the phosphoryl transfer network, a system linked to energetic homeostasis of high-energy phosphoryl transfer, to maintain energetic balance. Also, Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in fish has been related to severe impairment of the branchial phosphoryl transfer network via inhibition of creatine kinase (CK), adenylate kinase (AK) and pyruvate kinase (PK) activities. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether dietary supplementation with grape pomace flour (GPF) is able to reduce or prevent the impairment of cellular energetic homeostasis in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) experimentally infected by P. aeruginosa. Branchial CK (cytosolic and mitochondrial), AK, and PK activities were lower in infected animals on day 15 post-infection (PI) compared to uninfected fish, while lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity was higher. Branchial reactive oxygen species (ROS), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), lipid oxidation (LOOH) and protein carbonylation levels were higher, while the level of non-proteic (NPSH) and proteic (PSH) thiols was lower in infected fish on day 15 PI, as compared to uninfected fish. The use of 300 mg of GPF/kg of feed was able to ameliorate the activities of CK, AK, PK, and LDH as compared to infected fish, but their activities remained different from the control group. On the other hand, dietary supplementation with 300 mg of GPF/kg of feed was able to prevent all alterations linked to oxidative damage elicited by disease. Based on this evidence, inhibition of the phosphoryl transfer network may contribute to the impairment of intracellular energetic communication between cellular ATP synthesis and consumption and is mediated by oxidative damage in the gills of fish infected by P. aeruginosa. The use of 300 mg of GPF/kg of feed exerted protective effects on branchial energetic metabolism linked to ATP metabolism by reducing the impairment in cellular energetic homeostasis; its effects can be mediated by the prevention of SH group oxidation.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of grape residue flour (GRF) on antioxidant activities, biochemistry variables, components of the immune system and milk production and quality of Lacaune sheep in heat stress. Twenty-seven multiparous lactating sheep [50 ± 1.8 days (d) milking] were stratified by initial body weight, age, date of lambing and milk production and assigned randomly to 1 of 3 treatments (9 sheep/treatment): no GRF supplementation (control group) or supplementation at 1% (10 g/kg GRF) or 2% (20 g/kg GRF) of GRF (bark and seed) in the concentrate (grains and minerals mixture). Each ewe received 0.8 kg/d of concentrate, 3.6 kg/d of corn silage, and 0.25 kg/d of Cynodon spp hay. Milk production along with blood and milk samples were collected on d 1, 10 and 15. The 2% GRF sheep had increased serum concentrations of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity on d 15 compared to control sheep. Over time (d 10 to 15), lipid peroxidation was reduced in 2% GRF sheep. Total serum antioxidant capacity was greater in 2% GRF sheep compared to control sheep on d 10 and 15. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity in milk samples were greater in 2% GRF sheep compared to control sheep. Supplementation with GRF did not affect milk production but GRF sheep were more efficient compared to control sheep. Protein and lactose concentrations were similar between treatments, but total solids and fat concentrations were greater in 2% GRF sheep compared to control sheep on d 15. Somatic cell count was reduced in GRF sheep compared to control sheep. In summary, supplementation with 2% GRF in dairy sheep in heat stress resulted in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses, which improved milk quality and reduced somatic cell count and lipid peroxidation.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether rupture on blood-brain barrier (BBB) can be a pathway for trichlorfon-induced neurotoxic effects, and to investigate its implications on oxidative status, cell viability and brain neurotransmitters in silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen). The BBB permeability was increased in fish exposed for 24 h to 22 mg/L of trichlorfon compared to the control group, as well as in those exposed to 11 and 22 mg/L of trichlorfon for 48 h. Compared to the control group, brain reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxide levels were higher when exposed to 22 mg/L of trichlorfon and 11 and 22 mg/L of trichlorfon after 24 h and 48 h, respectively, while the antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radical levels was lower. Exposure to 22 mg/L of trichlorfon for 24 h reduced brain cell viability compared to the control group, together with 11 and 22 mg/L of trichlorfon for 48 h. Also, brain AChE, Na+ and K+-ATPase activities were reduced in those fish exposed to trichlorfon compared to the control group. Thus, the rupture of BBB can be considered an important pathway involved in trichlorfon-induced neurotoxic effects, which contributes to brain oxidative damage and important changes on brain neurotransmitters.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative opportunistic bacterial pathogen in aquaculture systems being associated to extensive liver damage caused by oxidative stress in both marine and freshwater fish. Dietary supplementation with natural antioxidants is considered a rational strategy to prevent hepatic diseases involved with oxidative stress. Bio-residues resulting from the wine industry, such as grape pomace, are potential sources of bioactive phenolic compounds that can be applied as supplement for animal production. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether dietary supplementation with grape pomace flour (GPF) was able to prevent or reduce the hepatic oxidative damage of grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella, experimentally infected by P. aeruginosa. Hepatic reactive oxygen species (ROS), metabolites of nitric oxide (NOx), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and protein carbonylation levels were higher in fish experimentally infected by P. aeruginosa compared to the control group. Hepatic superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radical levels were also higher in fish experimentally infected by P. aeruginosa compared to the control group. Dietary supplementation with 300 mg/kg GPF prevented all alterations elicited by P. aeruginosa, with the exception of protein carbonylation levels. The dietary supplementation with 150 mg/kg GPF was not able to avoid alteration of the analyzed variables, being results similar to those infected (positive control). Based on these results, dietary supplementation with 300 mg/kg GPF prevented P. aeruginosa-induced liver damage in grass carp, and this protective effect occurred through prevention on excessive ROS and NOx production, as well as via prevention of lipid damage. Moreover, 300 mg/kg GPF exerted its hepatoprotective effects by improving enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense system. In summary, this supplementation can be an interesting approach to prevent P. aeruginosa-induced liver damage.

It is becoming evident that bacterial infectious diseases negatively affect gill energy metabolism, mainly because it causes alterations of enzymes that belong to the phosphotransfer network, such as creatine kinase (CK), adenylate kinase (AK) and pyruvate kinase (PK). Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether the phosphotransfer network could be one pathway involved in the bioenergetic imbalance during Providencia rettgeri infection, as well as to investigate the bacteria's influence on adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-dependent enzymes. In this study, branchial cytosolic and mitochondrial CK activity decreased in infected animals on day 14 post-infection (PI) when compared to its respective control group. Moreover, branchial sodium-potassium pump (Na+/K+-ATPase) and proton-pump (H+-ATPase) activities decreased in infected animals on day 14 PI compared to the control. Finally, branchial thiobarbituric acid reactive substance levels increased in infected animals on day 14 PI, while non-protein thiol (NPSH) levels decreased. No significant difference was observed between groups regarding AK and PK activities. In summary, the impairment of CK activity elicited by P. rettgeri caused an impairment in branchial energetic homeostasis, reducing ATP availability in the gills. Moreover, inhibition of CK activity provokes an impairment of ATP-dependent enzymes, such as Na+/K+-ATPase and H+-ATPase, which can be mediated by lipid oxidative damage and reduction of NPSH content.

Hypoxia is a critical issue in aquaculture of marine or freshwater fishes especially in intensive aquaculture systems, contributing to severe economic losses for fish producers. Some evidence has suggested the involvement of phosphoryl transfer network, catalyzed by creatine kinase (CK), pyruvate kinase (PK) and adenylate kinase (AK) in the metabolic alterations during exposure to hypoxia, but the effects on fish exposed to acute hypoxia remains unknown. Moreover, some evidence has revealed the protective effects of caffeine supplementation against hypoxia, including linked to energetic status. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether diet supplemented with caffeine (5 and 8%) is able to protect the gills against bioenergetics dysfunction on Nile tilapia exposed to hypoxia. Branchial cytosolic and mitochondrial CK, and sodium-potassium pump (Na+, K+-ATPase) activities were inhibited in fish exposed to hypoxia compared to control group, while branchial AK and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities and lactate levels were stimulated. The use of 8% dietary caffeine was able to prevent all alterations induced by exposure to hypoxia, with exception of the inhibition on Na+, K+-ATPase activity. The lower activity to both CK fractions (cytosolic and mitochondrial) contributes to impairment on bioenergetic homeostasis, while augmentation on AK activity can be considered an attempt to prevent or reduce the energetic imbalance during hypoxia. Also, the use of 8% dietary caffeine prevented alteration energetic metabolism, as well as occurrence of anaerobic metabolism. In summary, use of 8% dietary caffeine can be an alternative to improve branchial energetic homeostasis during exposure to hypoxia.

Mancozeb is a fungicide widely used in agriculture, mostly against the pathogen Glomerella cingulata responsible for the rot of ripe grape, but presents high toxicity. Strategies are sought to reduce the toxicity of this fungicide and alternative treatments are welcome. An alternative could be the use of clove oil, which has Eugenol as its major compound, and has antifungal potential against G. cingulata, however, Eugenol is susceptible to degradation processes which may compromise its efficacy. The nanoencapsulation of Mancozeb and Eugenol is a possible strategy to overcome the limitations of toxicity, solubility and instability of these compounds. Therefore, the objective of this study is to develop nanoemulsions containing Mancozeb (0.1 mg/mL) and Eugenol (33 mg/mL), isolated or associated, and evaluate the safety of these formulations through cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and ecotoxicity tests. Nanoemulsions were developed by the spontaneous emulsification method, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity were evaluated in healthy human cells through MTT, Dichlorofluorescein diacetate and Picogreen tests, and ecotoxicity assessment was carried out using the chronic toxicity test in springtails. After preparation, the physicochemical characterization of the nanoemulsions were performed which presented mean particle size between 200 and 300 nm, polydispersity index less than 0.3, negative zeta potential and acid pH. The nanoencapsulation was able to avoid the reduction of the cell viability caused by Mancozeb, while Eugenol was shown to be safe for cell use in both free and nanostructured forms, however the association of the two active compounds showed toxicity in the higher doses of Mancozeb. In the ecotoxicity tests, both free Mancozeb and Eugenol forms presented high toxic potential for soil, whereas the nanoencapsulation of these compounds did not cause a reduction in number of springtails. Therefore, from the tests performed, it was possible to observe that nanoencapsulation of Mancozeb and Eugenol is a safe alternative for the application of these compounds mainly in agriculture.

The spleen is a secondary lymphatic organ that has an important role in fish immune and inflammatory responses. Reports have suggested a role of purinergic signaling in immune and inflammatory responses during bacterial infection; however, the role of this pathway during Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the involvement of purinergic signaling in the pathogenesis of P. aeruginosa infection of grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella. In addition, grape pomace flour (GPF), a bio-residue of the wine industry, was assessed as a dietary supplement and whether it was able to modulate purinergic signaling and improve the immune and inflammatory responses of C. idella, experimentally infected with P. aeruginosa. Nucleoside Triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (NTPDase) activity was downregulated in the serum and spleen of fish experimentally infected with P. aeruginosa, compared to the control group. By contrast, serum and splenic adenosine deaminase (ADA) activity was stimulated in fish experimentally infected with P. aeruginosa compared to the control group. Dietary supplementation with GPF was able to prevent all alterations induced by infection. Serum and splenic metabolites of nitric oxide (NOx) were higher in fish experimentally infected with P. aeruginosa compared to the control group, and GPF supplementation was able to prevent this alteration. Serum and splenic myeloperoxidase and catalase activities were also higher in fish experimentally infected with P. aeruginosa compared to the control group, and again, the use of GPF was able to prevent these alterations. Based on these metabolic changes, purinergic signaling contributed to the pro-inflammatory profile of immune lymphatic organs during P. aeruginosa infection and to disease pathophysiology. Dietary supplementation with GPF modulated the inflammatory response by altering serum and splenic purinergic signaling. GPF may be means of improving immune and inflammatory responses resulting from P. aeruginosa infection of grass carp.

Fish represents an important source of proteins and essential micronutrients for human health, and Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is one of the most widespread aquaculture species grown worldwide to meet the growing demand for fish. In this sense, the use of supplemented diets it is important and an interesting approach to improve the growth performance, as the use of vegetable choline (VC). A total of 160 fingerlings Nile tilapia (7.10 ± 0.45 g; 6.13 ± 0.59 cm) were randomly separated into four groups in quadruplicate with 10 fish per aquarium (60 L) as follows: the group T0 (basal diet without VC supplementation), T400 (basal diet supplemented with 400 mg VC/kg of feed), (basal diet supplemented with 800 mg VC/kg of feed), and T1200 (basal diet supplemented with 1200 mg VC/kg of feed), being fed with rate of 6% of total biomass for 60 consecutive days in two equal portions and offered to fish twice a day at 9:00 am and 17:00 h. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether phosphoryl transfer network, as well as the improvement of antioxidant/oxidant status, can be considered pathways involved in the improvement of growth performance in Nile tilapia (7.10 ± 0.45 g) fed 0.0, 400, 800, and 1200 mg VC/kg of feed for 60 days. VC-supplemented diets were able to increase fish growth and feed intake after 60 days post-feeding compared to the control group. Also, fish from groups supplemented with 800 and 1200 mg VC/kg of feed presented an increase on hepatic pyruvate kinase activity compared to the control group. On the other hand, fish supplemented with 1200 mg VC/kg of feed presented an increase on hepatic glucose levels, while the hepatic lactate levels decreased compared to the control group. Additionally, VC supplementation improves the zootechnical performance. Finally, fish from groups supplemented with 800 and 1200 mg VC/kg of feed presented lower hepatic lactate dehydrogenase and lipid peroxidation levels, while the antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals levels were higher compared to the control group. Based on these evidences, VC supplementation can be an interesting alternative to increase growth performance of Nile tilapia fingerlings especially at levels of 800 and 1200 mg VC/kg of feed, which were able to improve the hepatic energy metabolism and antioxidant/oxidant status and subsequently increased the fish growth performance.

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine (Ado) are the main molecules of the purinergic signalling involved in toxicological mechanisms induced by pesticides. These molecules participate in the regulation of immune and inflammatory responses due to their interaction with purinereceptors in the extracellular medium. In the literature, the ATP and Ado are related with pro-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, respectively. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether the purinergic signalling can be considered a potential target for trichlorfon-induced inflammation and impairment of the immune response. Seric and splenic triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (NTPDase) activities using ATP as substrate were reduced at 22 mg/L after 48 h of exposure compared to the control group, while NTPDase activity using ADP as substrate was lower only in the serum of silver catfish at the same period. On the other hand, seric and splenic adenosine deaminase (ADA) activities and metabolites of nitric oxide (NOx) levels were increased at 22 mg/L after 48 h of exposure compared to the control group. The enzymatic activity of the purinergic signalling did not return to control levels after 48 h of recovery period in trichlorfon-free water. Based on these evidences, we concluded that trichlorfon interferes with the purinergic signalling, causing impairment of the immune and inflammatory responses by reducing ATP hydrolyses, possible leading to its accumulation in the extracellular environment. In addition, there is an increase in Ado desamination and possible reduction of it in the extracellular medium, leading to a self-sustained pro-inflammatory deleterious cycle. In summary, the purinergic signalling can be considered a potential target for trichlorfon-induced inflammation and impairment of the immune response in freshwater silver catfish at exposure to 22 mg/L.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a phytogenic feed additive (PFA) based on essential oils such as carvacrol, thymol and cinnamic aldehyde, could be considered a replacement for antimicrobials used as growth promoters in broiler chickens, as well as to investigate its effect on total bacterial count, biochemical profiles, meat quality and meat fatty acid profile. A total of 240 broiler chicks were randomly distributed into 4 groups with 4 replicates of 15 animals each, as follow: T1 (basal diet only; the control group), T2 (basal diet supplemented with zinc bacitracin), T3 (basal diet with 0.5% of the PFA), T4 (basal diet with 1.0% of the PFA). The addition of 0.5% of the PFA improved live body weight of supplemented birds compared to the control group at 35 and 42 days of age, while the total bacterial count in the environment was reduced when 1.0% of the PFA was used. In addition, intestinal villi height and crypt depth suffered variations during the entire experiment in birds treated with both concentrations of the PFA and zinc bacitracin. Total erythrocyte counts were higher on days 14, 28 and 42 in both treated groups (PFA) compared to the control group, as well as hemoglobin content on days 28 and 42. On the other hand, leukocyte counts were lower on days 14, 28 and 42 due to reduced lymphocyte counts in both PFA treated groups compared to the control group. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were lower in broilers fed with either concentration of PFA on day 14 of life, and the same was observed regarding aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in broiler treated with 0.5% of the PFA. Also, total protein and globulin levels were lower on days 14 and 28 in groups fed with phytogenic compared to the control group. Regarding meat quality, breast meat showed higher red intensity and shear force in groups fed with both concentrations of phytogenic compared to the control group, while weight loss by cooking was lower. Finally, 1.0% of phytogenic showed lower docosadienoic acid (C22:2) content in breast meat. In conclusion, results showed that the use of PFAs based on carvacrol and thymol may be considered an interesting alternative to increase broilers performance, replacing the use of antimicrobials as growth promoters, as well as an interesting alternative to reduce the total bacterial count in the environment of broiler chickens. Moreover, the diet containing phytogenic also showed hepaprotective effects but deserves attention regarding possible alterations on the immune response.

Several evidences have related the biochemical and pharmacological properties of thymol, but the possible neurotoxic effects of this compound remain unknown and not evaluated. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate whether intake of thymol in different doses (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) induce neurotoxicity and behavioral alterations using mice as experimental model, as well as the involvement of blood-brain barrier (BBB) and brain neurotransmitters in these alterations. Thymol (20 and 40 mg/kg) significantly decrease latency time to inhibitory avoidance task when compared to control group, indicating a memory loss after 30 days of oral treatment. Also, thymol (20 and 40 mg/kg) induced a significant increase on BBB permeability to Evan’s blue dye when compared to control group, which is an indicative of BBB breakdown. Moreover, a significant increase of brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was observed in mice treated with 40 mg/kg of thymol, while the activity of sodium-potassium pump (Na+, K+-ATPase) was inhibited in mice treated with 20 and 40 mg/kg thymol when compared to control group. Finally, mice that received 20 and 40 mg/kg thymol showed a significant increase on cerebral reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and cerebral xanthine oxidase (XO) activity compared to control group. Based on these evidences, the rupture of BBB can be considered an important pathway linked in thymol-induced memory loss. Also, the augmentation of brain ROS levels elicited by increase on XO activity may be a via involved in the damage to BBB, and an oxidative pathway that impairs the activity of brain neurotransmitters, as AChE and Na+, K+-ATPase. In summary, the dose of 10 mg/kg thymol can be safe and without neurotoxic effects in a period of 30 days of intake.

Rangelia vitalii is the etiologic agent of canine rangeliosis, a severe piroplasmosis that affects domestic dogs in Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina. While R. vitalii is one of the most pathogenic tick-borne pathogens for dogs in the world, its tick vector has remained unknown. The present study evaluated the vector competence of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (both tropical and temperate species), Amblyomma aureolatum, Amblyomma ovale, Amblyomma tigrinum, and Amblyomma sculptum for R. vitalii. These six tick species were selected for the study because they comprise the main tick species infesting dogs within the distribution area of canine rangeliosis in South America. Acquisition feeding of the above six tick species was performed on domestic dogs showing clinical signs of canine rangeliosis, after being experimentally infected through intravenous inoculation or infestation with R. vitalii-infected ticks. Thereafter, engorged ticks were evaluated for transstadial and transovarial passages of R. vitalii through molecular analysis after molting or oviposition and egg hatching. The resultant ticks were evaluated for their competence to transmit R. vitalii to susceptible dogs. Among the six tick species, only A. aureolatum was able to acquire and perpetuate R. vitalii by transstadial and transovarial passages, as demonstrated by >5% infection rates of ticks after hatching or molting. When exposed to transmission feeding, only A. aureolatum ticks were competent to transmit R. vitalii to dogs, which became severely ill, and the results confirmed by molecular methods and blood smear examination to have acquired rangeliosis. Results of the present study, coupled with epidemiological data, indicate that A. aureolatum is a natural vector of R. vitalii. Our results also indicate that R. vitalii is the first Piroplasmorida agent to be transovarially transmitted in Amblyomma ticks.

It is known that the cytotoxic effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in endothelial cells of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) are associated with behavioral dysfunction. However, the effects of a diet contaminated with AFB1 on the behavior of silver catfish remain unknown. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether an AFB1-contaminated diet (1177 ppb kg feed−1) impaired silver catfish behavior, as well as whether disruption of the BBB and alteration of neurotransmitters in brain synaptosomes are involved. Fish fed a diet contaminated with AFB1 presented a behavioral impairment linked with hyperlocomotion on days 14 and 21 compared with the control group (basal diet). Neurotransmitter levels were also affected on days 14 and 21. The permeability of the BBB to Evans blue dye increased in the intoxicated animals compared with the control group, which suggests that the BBB was disrupted. Moreover, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in brain synaptosomes was increased in fish fed a diet contaminated with AFB1, while activity of the sodium-potassium pump (Na+, K+-ATPase) was decreased. Based on this evidence, the present study shows that silver catfish fed a diet containing AFB1 exhibit behavioral impairments related to hyperlocomotion. This diet caused a disruption of the BBB and brain lesions, which may contribute to the behavioral changes. Also, the alterations in the activities of AChE and Na+, K+-ATPase in brain synaptosomes may directly contribute to this behavior, since they may promote synapse dysfunction. In addition, the hyperlocomotion may be considered an important macroscopic marker indicating possible AFB1 intoxication.

The objective of this study was to determine whether supplementation with vegetable choline (VC: 0, 400, 800, and 1200 mg kg−1 of feed) in feed for Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) raised in a biofloc system would promote changes in fatty acid (FA) profiles in the meat. We characterized the composition of the biofloc; that is, we evaluated the meat's chemical composition and FA profiles. Concerning proximate meat composition, moisture was significantly lower in the group fed 1200 mg kg−1 of VC when compared to those of other treatments. Lipid levels were significantly higher in treatments with 800 and 1200 mg kg−1 than in the control (0 mg kg−1). The total saturated fatty acids (SFA) in meat were significantly lower in the 400 mg kg−1 treatment than in the control treatment, while they were significantly higher in the 1200 mg kg−1 treatment when compared to the control treatment. Total monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) in meat were significantly lower in the 1200 mg kg−1 treatment than in the control treatment. Finally, total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in meat were significantly higher in treatments with 800 and 1200 mg kg−1 than in the control treatment. Taken together, the data suggest that supplementation of VC in diets for Nile tilapia in biofloc treatment improved FA profiles of the meat. Levels of 400 and 800 mg kg−1 of diet led a decreased SFAs and increased PUFAs (mainly DHA) and MUFAs in the meat of tilapia, all of which desirable effects from the standpoint of the consumer.

Good vaccines should confer protection against specific pathogens in experimental and field conditions. However, some commercial vaccines are not capable to confer protection to animals, being inefficient in a bovine vaccine program. In this sense, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antibody levels involved in the immune response in vaccinated cows against leptospirosis, as well as acute phase protein and the immunological markers in a vaccine program in beef cattle. Twenty non-lactating cows, negative for leptospirosis and without vaccination against this disease were evaluated during five months. The herd was divided into two groups named as A (the control group) and B (the vaccinated group). Ten cows from the group B received an initial dose (5 mL) of vaccine on day 0 and one booster dose (5 mL) on day 29. In order to evaluate humoral response (MAT – titration 1:25), cytokine levels (tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-10 (IL-10)), and C-reactive protein levels (an acute phase protein), blood samples were evaluated on days 0, 29, 40, 83 and 144 after vaccination. In none of the evaluated periods it was observed specific antibodies to any of the six serovars presents in the vaccine, as well as no difference between groups regarding cytokine and C-reactive protein levels. Therefore, the vaccine used did not stimulate the immune response of cattle, inferring the absence of protection against infections by L. interrogans.

In the present study, we evaluated diets supplemented with Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil (tea tree oil - TTO) as a growth promoter and its possible hepatoprotective effects in Rhamdia quelen exposed to the insecticide amitraz. Six groups (8 per group, in triplicate) were tested: control A (basal diet), B (basal diet + TTO 1.0 mL/kg), C (basal diet +0.84 mL/kg amitraz), D (basal diet +1.19 mL/kg amitraz), E (basal diet +1.0 mL/kg TTO + 0.84 mL/kg amitraz) and F (basal diet + TTO 1.0 mL/kg + 1.19 mL/kg amitraz). Initially R. quelen received diets according to each group. After 14 days, four groups were exposed to two levels of amitraz for a period of 7 days, and were later transferred to amitraz-free water for recovery. We measured levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipoperoxidation (LOOH) in liver tissue, and activities of enzymes involved in energy metabolism, adenylate kinase (AK) and pyruvate kinase (PK), in addition to zootechnical indices such as length, weight body and fish weight gain. ROS and LOOH levels increased significantly (p

Improving the health and immunity of pets is a concern of the guardians, while maintaining the health of the animals directly impacts the owners' health and public health. The objective of this study was to produce a dog feed containing a microencapsulated phytogenic blend, as well as determine the impact of the additive on animal health and its intestinal microbiota. The composition included microencapsulated thymol, carvacrol, and cinnamaldehyde, at 300 mg/kg of feed. Ten male beagle dogs were divided into two groups, identified as follows: the control group (C; ingested the feed without the additive) and the treated group (T; consumed feed containing the phytogenic blend). The dogs received 300 g of feed/day divided into two meals. Greater neutrophil counts in group T and lymphocyte counts were observed at the end of the experiment, as well as levels of α2-globulins and γ-globulin, while β1 and β2-globulins levels were lower in group T. Serum nitrogen oxide levels were higher in group T. Levels of reactive oxygen species were lower in group T at days 30 and 45, unlike activity of glutathione peroxidase that was higher. We found less bacterial contamination in the feces of dogs in group T, i.e., total bacterial count, total coliform counts, and counts of Salmonella and Escherichia coli were lower on days 30 and 45. Phytogenic blend intake reduces bacterial counts in stool and improves antioxidant/oxidative status and immune responses.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the enzymatic activity of the purinergic system in sera samples from alloxan-induced diabetic mice treated with tucuma oil (Astrocaryum vulgare). For this, the mice were divided into four groups (n = 6): control/water (the group CW); control/tucuma oil (the group CT); diabetic/water (the group DW), and diabetic/tucuma oil (the group DT) treated for 14 days with 5.0 mL kg−1 via oral gavage. On day 14 post-treatment, mice were submitted to euthanasia and blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture. Tucuma oil treatment significantly decreased (p

Neospora caninum causes reproductive problems in cattle such as abortion, premature birth, retention of fetal membranes, and metritis. Therefore, this study aimed to verify possible risk factors for N. caninum infection in dairy cattle and their cause-effect relation to neosporosis. Serum samples of 1518 dairy cows from the West of Santa Catarina State, Southern Brazil were analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) for N. caninum , where 466 were found to be positives (30.69%-CI 95% ; 28.3–33.0). In addition, an epidemiological survey was conducted in order to verify possible risk factors for neosporosis and their relation to the disease. The presence of dogs in the farm was strongly associated with IFA positive results for N. caninum , and lack of history for neosporosis in the farm increased the chances of positivity in 66%. It was found a significant cause-effect relation between the occurrence of reproductive problems and the presence of antibodies against N. caninum (p = 0.05). It is possible to conclude that N. caninum is widely distributed in dairy farms of the Western part of Santa Catarina state, Brazil, and that the occurrence of reproductive problems is directly related to the disease with the presence of dogs as a risk factor for N. caninum infection.

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of the oral administration of tucuma oil (Astrocaryum vulgare) on glucose and insulin levels, oxidative status, and pancreatic genotoxic parameters of alloxan-induced diabetic mice. The animals were divided into four groups (n = 6 each): control/water; control/tucuma oil; diabetic/water; diabetic/tucuma oil treated for 14 days with 5.0 mL kg−1 via oral gavage. Gas chromatograph characterization demonstrated that oleic/elaidic fatty acid is the most abundant component present in this oil, followed by palmitic and stearic fatty acids. Our results demonstrated an increase (p

The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of purine nucleosides and xanthine oxidase (XO) activity in the liver of mice chronically infected by Toxoplasma gondii and treated with diphenyl diselenide (PhSe)2. For this experiment, forty Swiss mice were used. Twenty animals were orally infected by approximately 50 bradizoites of a cystogenic ME-49 strain of T. gondii, and the same number of uninfected mice was used as a control group. Ten infected and ten uninfected mice were subcutaneously treated twice (days 1 and 20 post-infection (PI)) with 5 μmol kg−1 of (PhSe)2. On day 30 PI, liver samples were collected to measure the levels of hypoxanthine (HYPO), xanthine (XAN), uric acid (UA), and XO activity. Infected animals showed increased (P

Motivated by conventional medicines' ineffectiveness and the appearance of bacterial resistance, homeopathic medicines are being increasingly demanded by the veterinary market. Dog feces contain high bacterial and pathogenic loads, which can cause diseases in animals and facilitate zoonotic transmission. Adequate animal immunity contributes to the elimination of potential pathogens. This work's objective was to evaluate the effects of using a homeopathic medication on blood cell counts, serum protein levels, and fecal bacterial counts in dogs. Two groups were used, each including five 19-month-old Beagle dogs. The homeopathic product Orgainfecto® was sprayed on the two daily meals in the treated group (T), at 0.5 mL/animal/day for 60 days; the group that did not receive the homeopathic was considered the control (C), who were fed only the vehicle used in the production of the homeopathic as a placebo. On days 1, 30, and 60, individual stool samples were collected for bacterial counts in the stool, blood samples for blood counts, and serum for biochemical tests. Total bacterial counts in feces were lower in group T on days 30 and 60 of the experiment, while total coliforms and E coli. were lower in this group on day 60. Total leukocyte counts were lower on day 60 in group T, unlike the neutrophil count, higher in group T on day 30, and eosinophils on day 60. However, the lymphocyte count was lower in group T on days 30 and 60. There was an increase in globulin and total protein in group T on day 60. We conclude that the tested homeopathic causes neutrophils and eosinophils' stimulation and increases globulins levels even with reduced lymphocytes. The daily consumption of homeopathic by dogs decreases the intestinal bacterial load, resulting in less environmental contamination and animal and human colibacillosis risks.

Evidence suggests the involvement of purinergic signaling, a mechanism mediated by extracellular nucleotides and nucleosides, with the impairment of immune and inflammatory responses in silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen) exposed to trichlorfon. Plant-derived substances have been considered potent anti-inflammatory agents due to effects on the purinergic system, such as the use of the flavonoid rutin. The aim of this study was to determine whether a diet containing rutin is able to prevent or reduce trichlorfon-induced impairment of immune responses through alteration of the purinergic pathway. Spleen adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels were significantly higher in silver catfish exposed to 11 mg/L trichlorfon for 48 h compared to the control group, while adenosine (Ado) levels were significantly lower. Spleen ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (NTPDase) activity was significantly lower in silver catfish exposed to trichlorfon compared to control group, while adenosine deaminase activity was significantly higher. Spleen metabolites of nitric oxide, interleukin-1, and IL-6 were significantly higher in silver catfish exposed to trichlorfon compared to control group. Diet with 3 mg rutin/kg diet was able to prevent all the alterations elicited by trichlorfon, except restoring spleen ATP levels. The purinergic exposure signaling is involved in impairment of immune and inflammatory responses in fish exposed to trichlorfon due to reduction in ATP hydrolyses and by an increase in Ado deamination, leading to release of pro-inflammatory mediators. Use of rutin-added diet exerted an essential role in protecting the silver catfish spleen from trichlorfon-induced impairment on immune and inflammatory responses, preventing all alterations on splenic purinergic signaling.

Lambs born from dairy ewes are removed from their mothers within hours of ingesting colostrum; this influences their growth and development, especially when artificial milk has poor quality or insufficient volume. Alternatives have been proposed to assist lambs during this phase, including providing concentrate with additives such as choline, which is involved in various physiological processes. This study's objective was to determine the effects of vegetable biocholine (VB) supplementation on growth, biochemistry, and antioxidant responses in lambs from dairy ewes during the feed transition period. We used 40 Lacaune lambs in a randomized block design, distributed in four groups with five replications (two animals per replication). VB was added to the concentrate and was consumed between 30 days pre-weaning to 30 days post-weaning (total 60 days). The treatments were as follows: T0, without added VB, control group; T2, 2 g VB per animal/day; T4, 4 g VB per animal/day; and T6, 6 g VB per animal/day. The weight gain increased in T2, T4, and T6 lambs when compared to T0. Using orthogonal polynomials analysis suggested that the ideal supplementation dose is 2.81 g/day per animal when considering the maximum average daily gain (ADG), which corresponds to 0.189 g VB/kg of body weight (BW). After weaning, there were lower serum concentrations of creatine kinase enzyme in lambs supplemented with VB than in controls. No differences were observed concerning levels of total protein, albumin, or globulins. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity of T2 and T4 lambs was greater only at weaning (30 days). Glucose was greater in T2 and T4 lambs only on day 15. In general, VB supplementation decreased serum levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from day 15 of supplementation; these animals had lower lipid peroxidation levels after weaning. The activities of glutathione S-transferase (GST) did not differ. These data suggest that supplementation with VB increases weight gain and improves health, primarily by reducing free radical levels during the dietary transition period.

Highlights • Supplementation with biocholine powder (BP) had no effect on the performance in young female sheep to long-term. • But supplementation with BP in the first 30 days of ingestion potentiates weight gain. • Ingestion of BP modified the ruminal fermentation profile, and decreased the concentration of volatile fatty acids. • BP supplementation stimulated antioxidant, immunological and hepatoprotective activities., The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of biocholine powder (BP) added to the concentrate of ewe lambs on growth, rumen fermentation, antioxidant status, and metabolism. Forty-eight Lacaune lambs were divided 3 treatments: T0, T4, and T8, representing 0, 4, and 8 g of BP per animal/day added to the concentrate, respectively. The T4 and T8 lambs had greater average daily gain from d 0–75 (0.22, 0.25, and 0.26 kg/d for T0, T4 and T8, respectively). T4 and T8 lambs had higher methylene blue test results (indicating microbiological activity), and the higher effects were detected for T8 lambs. The BP in lamb’s diet increased the ruminal concentration of propionate (T4 and T8). The T8 lambs had greater serum activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione transferase, and lower reactive oxygen species levels. We conclude that BP is a biotechnological additive with high nutritional potential.

The aim of this study was to determine whether addition of a phytogenic blend in the feed of broilers to replace conventional antimicrobials as a performance enhancer would improve or maintain productive efficiency. The phytogenic blend was based on curcuminoids, cinnamaldehyde and glycerol monolaurate. We used 480 birds divided into three groups with eight repetitions per group and 20 birds per repetition. The groups were identified as antimicrobial-treated: basal feed with antibiotics and coccidiostatic agents; phytogenic blend: basal feed with blend; and control, only basal feed. Zootechnical performance was measured on days from 1 to 42, with body weight measured at days 1, 7, 21 and 42. We collected excreta for parasitological analysis and total bacterial counts to determine if the phytogenic blend had kept the bacteria and coccidia in counts smaller or similar to that resulting from use of conventional performance enhancer. Other variables were also measured to complement our research, i.e., if the consumption of bend is good for the health of the birds (without causing toxicity and negatively altering the metabolism and intestinal morphometry) and does not interfere in the quality of the meat. Because the bacteria are often opportunistic, we challenged all birds at 23 days of age with high doses of oral oocysts (28,000 oocysts). Birds supplemented with the blend showed inferior performance compared to birds in the control and antimicrobial treated group (P 0.05). We found a smaller number of oocysts of Eimeria spp. in the excreta at 42 days in the treatment with blend and antimicrobial treated group (P 0.05). In terms of total bacterial counts, there were lower counts in the birds of the blend group than in the control group (P 0.05). The blend increased the yellow intensity and the luminosity of the meat (P 0.05), as well as cooking weight losses (P 0.05) compared those of the control. We observed higher total levels of saturated fatty acids in meat from the blend and antimicrobial treated group (P 0.05), as well as lower levels of monounsaturated fatty acids in the blend group (P 0.05). The inclusion of a phytogenic blend to replace conventional antimicrobials and anticoccidial agents in the diet of chickens was able to control bacteria as well as coccidia; however, it ends up harming health and production.

Calves are born immunologically immature and are highly susceptible to infectious diseases. For these reasons, suitable handling practices that favor health conditions and improve performance are necessary at this phase of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the inclusion of Schizochytrium sp. microalgae for Holstein calves at different ages would improve dry matter intake (DMI), performance and health. Twenty-four newborn Holstein calves (34.0 ± 1.5 kg of BW) were allocated in a completely randomized design and were individually housed over 45 days. Starter and ryegrass hay and water were offered separately and ad libitum after the third day of life. Calves were daily fed five liters of whole milk divided in two equal meals. Treatments were as follows: whole milk without addition of microalgae (CON); addition of 6 g of microalgae/day over 45 days (ENT); addition of 6 g of microalgae/day from the 15th day of life until weaning (A15); and addition of 6 g of microalgae/day from the 30th day of life until weaning (A30). Calves that received microalgae (ENT, A15 and A30) had greater intake of starter in grams per day (P = 0.01) and metabolic weight (P = 0.02), and they tended (P = 0.07) to increase total DMI when compared with CON, without a difference in terms of feed efficiency (P = 0.20). Higher weaning thoracic perimeter (P = 0.03) for supplemented animals were observed. Serum lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were reduced (P = 0.029 and P

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the treatment with Achyrocline satureioides essential oil-loaded in nanocapsules (AS-NC) is able to protect the hepatic tissue against cytotoxic damage caused by Trypanosoma evansi. Thus, the rats were divided into four groups (n = 6 per group): uninfected/saline, uninfected/AS-NC, infected/saline, and infected/AS-NC. At day 4 post-infection (PI), the animals were euthanized and liver and sera samples were collected to perform the hepatic cell viability assay, and to determine seric levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide metabolites (NOx). Cell viability decreased (p < 0.05) in the infected/saline group compared to uninfected/saline group, while the treatment with AS-NC avoided this alteration in infected rats. Seric ROS and NOx levels increased (p < 0.05) in the infected/saline group compared to uninfected/saline group, while the treatment with AS-NC avoided this effect on ROS levels of infected rats. In summary, the treatment with AS-NC was able to protect the liver tissue against the cytotoxic effect caused by the parasite by avoiding exacerbated production of ROS.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro susceptibility of larva and adult forms of Alphitobius diaperinus treated with cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) essential oil on its free form, nanoemulsion (NE), and nanocapsule (NC), as well as the effect of these treatments on the edaphic fauna using springtails of Folsomia candida (ISO) as a model. The tests with larvae and adults were performed using 1, 5, and 10% of the cinnamon essential oil, and 0.5, 1, and 5% of NE and NC containing 5% of cinnamon essential oil. To validate the test, three controls were used: only oil diluent (Triton), blank nanoemulsion (without oil) and blank nanocapsule (without oil). Cinnamon essential oil at 5 and 10% caused mortality in larva and adult forms of A. diaperinus. The NE (1%) and NC (5%) caused mortality in both phases of A. diaperinus life cycle. After these promising findings, more studies were conducted to verify the ecotoxicological effect of the cinnamon oil. For this, a Tropical Artificial Soil (TAS) was used with different doses of cinnamon oil, NE and NC, using springtails of F. candida. The use of cinnamon oil, even in very low concentrations (25 mg kg− 1), on its original form significantly affected springtails survival and reproduction. However, the nanostructuring process seemed to minimize this toxic effect without affecting its insecticidal action. In summary, the pure oil and NE containing cinnamon oil showed effect against A. diaperinus, and may be considered an alternative to control this infestation.

Graphical abstract, The acaricidal effect of seven essential oils was examined in vitro against the cattle tick (Rhipicephalus microplus). Engorged female ticks were manually collected in farms of Southern Brazil and placed into petri dishes (n = 10) in order to test the following oils: juniper (Juniperus communis), palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii), cedar (Cedrus atlantica), lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus), ginger (Zingiber officinale), geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) and bergamot (Citrus aurantium var bergamia) at concentrations of 1%, 5%, and 10% each. A control group was used to validate the tests containing Triton X-100 only. Treatment effectiveness was measured considering inhibition of tick oviposition (partial or total), egg’s weight, and hatchability. C. martinii, C. citratus and C. atlantica essential oils showed efficacy higher than 99% at all concentrations tested. In addition, J. communis, Z. officinale, P. graveolens, and C. aurantium var bergamia oils showed efficiency ranging from 73% to 95%, depending on the concentration tested, where higher concentrations showed greater efficacy. It was concluded that essential oils can affect tick reproduction in vitro by inhibiting oviposition and hatchability.

The aim of this study was to evaluate seric NTPDase and 5′nucleotidase activities of cattle naturally infected by Eurytrema coelomanticum, as well as to correlate them to histopathological lesions in the pancreas and the degree of parasitism. Blood samples and pancreas of 51 bovines were collected on a slaughterhouse in Southern Brazil: 33 from cattle naturally infected by E. coelomanticum (the Group A), and 18 from uninfected animals (the Group B). Infected animals showed an average of 532 parasites per pancreas. In the pancreatic histology, ducts displayed hyperplasia, stenosis, proliferation of fibrous tissue, and interstitial inflammatory infiltration of lymphocytes. The serum from infected animals showed an increase in NTPDase activity when ATP was used as substrate (P < 0.001). For the ADP substrate, there was no difference between groups regarding NTPDase activity (P = 0.37), as well as 5′-nucleotidase activity (P = 0.27). Correlating NTPDase activity (ATP substrate) with the degree of histopathological lesions (rho = 0.66, P < 0.001) and the parasitic load on the pancreas (rho = 0.65, P < 0.001), a positive correlation was observed. Similar results were found between the degree of histopathological lesions and NTPDase activity (ADP substrate; rho = 0.29, P = 0.03), and 5′nucleotidase activity (rho = 0.35, P = 0.01). Based on the results of NTPDase and 5′nucleotidase enzymes in cattle naturally infected by E. coleomanticum, it is possible to suggest that these enzymes are involved in the modulation of inflammation, and they can act as markers of inflammatory response.

The neurotoxic effects and activity of Na(+), K(+)-ATPase and NTPDase in Wistar rats after treatment with α-terpinene (daily oral administration of 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0mLkg(-1) for 10days) were examined. Results of the inhibitory avoidance task showed a memory deficit (p

Although Eurytrema coelomaticum is considered a parasite with low pathogenicity, it may be associated with mortality and loss of productive performance in animals due to chronic pancreatitis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of oxidative stress caused by E. coelomaticum in naturally infected cattle, correlating the biochemical findings with the parasite load and histopathological changes. For this study, blood and pancreas samples from 51 cattle were collected, and levels of the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) were measured in the serum and pancreas, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was measured in total blood. Parasite burden was determined opening the pancreatic ducts, and then fragments of pancreas were collected and fixed in 10% buffered formalin and routinely processed for histopathology. From the 51 collected pancreas, 33 (63.5%) were parasitized. The average parasite burden per pancreas was 532 (12-2,578). TBARS and FRAP showed higher levels in serum and pancreas of infected animals (p

The objective of this study was to assess the influence of an asymptomatic experimental infection by Babesia bigemina on cholinesterase's as markers of the inflammatory process and biomarkers of oxidative imbalance. For this purpose, eight naive animals were used, as follows: four as controls or uninfected; and four infected with an attenuated strain of B. bigemina. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 7 and 11 post-inoculation (PI). Parasitemia was determined by blood smear evaluation, showing that the infection by B. bigemina resulted in mean 0.725 and 0.025% on day 7 and 11 PI, respectively, as well as mild anemia. The activities of acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase and catalase were lower, while levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and superoxide dismutase activity were higher in infected animals, when compared with the control group. This attenuated strain of B. bigemina induced an oxidative stress condition, as well as it reduces the cholinesterasés activity in infected and asymptomatic cattle. Therefore, this decrease of cholinesterase in infection by B. bigemina purpose is to inhibit inflammation, for thereby increasing acetylcholine levels, potent anti-inflammatory molecules.

The objective of this paper was to evaluate NTPDase and 5'-nucleotidase activities in platelets of bovine with and without spleen and infected by Anaplasma marginale. Our results demonstrate that infection along with splenectomy is able of inducing a profile of cellular protection, which showed an increase in the degradation of the nucleotides ATP and ADP by NTPDase, in addition to AMP by 5'nucleotidase to form the nucleoside adenosine in platelets, i.e., the enzymatic activities of platelets were increased in splenectomized animals when compared to non-splenectomized group. It notes that adenosine is a molecule with anti-inflammatory function. But this profile is related to a deficiency in immune signaling triggered by nucleotide ATP, which may be related to the increase in bacteremia and disability in combating the parasite in splenectomized host.

This study aimed to evaluate the susceptibility in vitro and in vivo of Trypanosoma evansi to terpinen-4-ol, γ-terpinene and α-terpinene, the three main compounds of tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) with known efficacy in the treatment of trypanosomosis. In vitro, a trypanocidal effect of terpinen-4-ol, γ-terpinene, and α-terpinene was observed when used alone or associated at 0.5, 1 and 2% concentrations i.e., the α-terpinene showed a faster trypanocidal effect when compared to chemotherapy (diminazene aceturate - D.A.). In vivo studies were performed in two experiments: I and II where experiment I used T. evansi infected mice treated with terpinen-4-ol, γ-terpinene and α-terpinene alone (at a dose of 1.0 mL kg(-1)) or associated (two compounds, dose of 0.5 mL kg(-1) of each compound; tree compounds, dose of 0.335 mL kg(-1) of each compound); Treatment with α-terpinene was able to extend animal longevity, but showed no curative efficacy. In experiment II, T. evansi infected mice were treated with D.A. associate with α-terpinene, where a curative efficacy of 57.14% was found, a much better result when D.A. was used alone (14.28%). In summary, α-terpinene associated with D.A. can be used as an alternative treatment for T. evansi infection. The compound α-terpinene from M. alternifolia essential oil is the one responsible for the trypanocidal effect, a fact confirmed by in vitro results and the increased longevity observed on treated mice.

Neosporosis is a parasitic disease cause by Neospora caninum, a parasite of great importance in livestock. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of antibody against N. caninum in dairy cattle with history of abortion, as well as to identify associated risk factors for neosporosis. Animals suspected of neosporosis (n = 130) after clinical examination were randomly selected. Sera samples from 29 farms were submitted to indirect immunofluorescence technique (IFA) in order to detect antibodies against N. caninum, and animals were considered positive if ≥ IFA 1:200. An epidemiological questionnaire was used to verify probable risk factors for neosporosis and their cause-effect relation. Serological results showed that 43.8% of the animals were seropositives for N. caninum. The univariate statistical analysis found a significant relation between neoporosis and age. The number of pregnancies and the number of years that the farms had been producing milk were found as associated risk factors for the disease either by univariate or by multivariate analyses. The cause-effect model found a possible relation between reproductive problems and positive serology for neosporosis (P = 0.06). Therefore, it was concluded that approximately 44% of dairy cows with history of abortion were seropositives for N. caninum and that age and the number of years that the farms had been producing milk are risk factors for parasite infection in dairy cattle.

The aim of this study was to determine whether the addition of microencapsulated organic acids to replace conventional performance enhancers gives rise to adequate zootechnical performance, quality of chicken meat and animal health. We used 640 birds, divided into four groups with eight repetitions per group (n = 20), as follows: 1) negative control (NC): only basal feed; 2) positive control (PC): basal feed with antibiotics and coccidiostatic agents; 3) dose recommended by the manufacturer of organic acid according to the age of the birds (OA-R: days 1–21 – 3.0 kg/Ton; days 22–33 - 2.0 kg/Ton; days 34–42 – 1.0 kg/Ton); 4) test dose of organic acid (OA-T: days 1–21 – 2.2 kg/Ton; days 22–33 – 1.5 kg/Ton; days 34–42 – 0.75 kg/Ton). Zootechnical performance was measured on days 7, 21 and 42. Excreta were collected for parasitological analysis and total bacterial count on days 21 and 42. Blood samples were collected at 42 days of age for biochemical, hematological, and enzymatic analyses. At 42 days, eight birds per treatment were euthanized for meat quality analysis and fatty acid profile measurement. Birds supplemented with organic acids showed a production efficiency index equal to that of the PC (P T group than in the NC and PC (P T group compared to the NC (P T group than in the PC (P T (P R than in PC (P

This study evaluated the effects of propolis extract, mixed in milk, on growth as well as on antimicrobial, antioxidant and immune responses in lactating lambs. Thirty-six Lacaune lambs [males; 7.0 ± 1.2 day (d) of age; 4.9 ± 0.80 kg of body weight (BW)] were assigned to the following groups: T0, T150, T200 and T250, representing 0, 150, 200, and 250 μL of propolis/kg of BW/d, respectively. All dosages (T150, T200, and T250) significantly increased weight gain (P = 0.01) with the greatest increase observed in T150 lambs (0.174, 0.244, 0.213, and 0.200 kg/d for T0, T150, T200, and T250, respectively). On regression analysis, the optimal dosage for improving weight gain was 137 μL of propolis/kg of BW/d. All dosage increased (P = 0.05) serum concentrations of total protein on d 10, but only T250 increased it on d 30. Only T150 increased (P = 0.02) the serum concentration of albumin on d 10, and all dosages increased it on d 30. The T200 tended to increase (P = 0.09) the serum concentration of immunoglobulin A, and T150 and T200 tended to increase (P = 0.09) the concentration of immunoglobulins heavy-chain. The T200 and T250 increased the concentration of transferrin on d 10 and only T250 increased it on d 42 (P = 0.01). All dosages increased (P = 0.04) the serum concentration of glucose. No effects were detected (P ≥ 0.11) for globulin, IgG light-chain, ceruloplasmin, urea, triglycerides, cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase, or gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase. All dosage decreased (P = 0.01) the serum concentration of reactive oxygen species on d 30; however, only T150 and T200 decreased it on d 42, and the greatest reduction was observed for T150. All dosages increased (P = 0.01) nitric oxide levels on 30; however, only T150 and T200 increased them on d 42. All dosage decreased (P = 0.01) the concentration of superoxide dismutase. All dosages increased (P = 0.01) the concentration of non-protein thiols and protein thiols, with the greatest effects detected for T250. All dosages decreased (P = 0.01) counts of E. coli and total coliform counts in feces, with the greatest effects observed for T150 and T200. Taken together, the data suggest that addition of propolis to milk increased growth as well as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and immune responses in lactating lambs. The greatest effects were observed for the dosage of 150 μL of propolis/kg of BW/d.

Trichlorfon is an organophosphate pesticide used extensively for controlling ectoparasites in aquaculture. Studies have found that trichlorfon caused environmental pollution and severe neurotoxic effects in several freshwater species. Feed additives such as flavonoids may reduce or prevent pesticide-induced toxicity in fish. The aim of the present study was to determine whether acute exposure to trichlorfon impairs behavior and causes oxidative damage in brains of silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen). We also sought to determine whether rutin would be capable of preventing or reducing these effects. Silver catfish were divided into four groups: groups A and C received basal feed, while groups B and D received feed containing 3 mg rutin/kg diet for 21 days. After 21 days, groups C and D were exposed for 48 h to a nominal concentration of 11 mg trichlorfon/L water. Fish exposed to trichlorfon showed significantly longer distances travelled and swimming performances than did unexposed fish. Cerebral levels of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation were significantly higher in fish exposed to trichlorfon than in unexposed fish, while cerebral superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities were significantly lower. Taken together, our findings suggest that dietary supplementation rutin completely prevented all alterations elicited by trichlorfon, except for cerebral AChE activity; the latter remained significantly lower compared to the unexposed group. In summary, rutin prevents trichlorfon-induced neurotoxicity in silver catfish.