Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant action of tadalafil in testicular regeneration process after heat stress.

Tadalafil, a potent phosphodiesterase inhibitor 5 (PDE-5), is commonly used for the management of erectile dysfunction. However, its therapeutic potential extends beyond this indication. This study aimed to investigate the impact of tadalafil on the recovery of testicular parenchyma in male Wistar rats exposed to testicular thermal stress. Fifty-four Wistar rats were subjected to testicular thermal stress and randomly assigned to receive either tadalafil treatment (TAD) or no treatment (control). TAD was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of either 0.9 mg/kg or 1.8 mg/kg. Biometric parameters, histopathological assessment of the testis, serum testosterone levels, oxidative stress, and interleukin levels were evaluated on days 7, 15, and 30 after thermal shock. The animals were euthanized at the end of each experimental period, and samples were collected. TAD treatment maintained testicular weight and reduced the testicular degenerative process up to day 7 post-injury. However, despite TAD therapy, serum testosterone levels were decreased in the treated groups at days 7 and 15 post-thermal stress. TAD also decreased TNF-α and NO levels at different doses but had no effect on IL-6. The treatment with TAD after heat shock demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties but did not prevent the aggravation of testicular lesions in subsequent periods, even with the systematic reduction in TNF-α and NO levels. Therefore, this selective PDE-5 inhibitor, at the dosages used, did not have a positive impact on testosterone levels during the post-thermal stress period, which could compromise the resumption of the spermatogenic process.

Reestablishment of ad libitum feeding following partial food deprivation: Impact on locomotor activity, visceral fat, food intake, and circadian glycemic curve.

Food deprivation has been associated with the development of metabolic pathologies. Few studies have explored the repercussions of a partial food deprivation following the reestablishment of an ad libitum diet. This study investigates the impact of a partial food deprivation (an 8-hour food intake restriction coupled with a 4-hour feeding window during the active phase) and the subsequent return to ad libitum feeding on the glycemic curve, food intake, and locomotor behavior. Wistar rats aged 45 days were subjected to 6 weeks of a partial food deprivation followed by 6 weeks of ad libitum feeding. Body weight, visceral fat, food intake, circadian glycemia, oral glucose tolerance, and locomotor activity were evaluated. It was found that the partial food deprivation resulted in the reduction of both the body weight and food intake; however, it increased visceral fat by 60%. Circadian glycemic values were altered at all intervals during the light phase, and glucose sensitivity improved at 60 minutes in the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). In the food-deprived group, the locomotor activity rhythm was reduced, with an observed delay in the peak of activity, reduction in total activity, and a decrease in the rhythmicity percentage. After the reestablishment of the ad libitum feeding, there was recovery of body weight, no difference in visceral fat, normalization of the food intake pattern, circadian glycemia, and oral glucose tolerance. Additionally, the return to ad libitum feeding restored locomotor activity, although the duration required for its complete recovery warrants further investigation. In conclusion, partial food deprivation induces physio-metabolic changes in rats, most of which are reversed after reestablishing ad libitum feeding.

Factors Affecting Toxic and Essential Trace Element Concentrations in Cow's Milk Produced in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil.

The aim of this study was to provide information on the levels of toxic (Cd and Pb) and essential (Cu, Fe, and Zn) elements in cow's milk produced in the State of Pernambuco (Brazil). A total of 142 samples of raw milk were collected, and the concentrations of essential and toxic elements were determined using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. In almost 30% of the samples analyzed, the Pb content exceeded the maximum level established in the Brazilian legislation (0.05 mg/L). By contrast, in all the samples, the Cd content was below the maximum allowable level (0.02 mg/L). The essential trace elements Cu, Fe, and Zn were generally present at lower concentrations than reported in other studies and can be considered within the deficient range for cow's milk. Statistical and chemometric procedures were used to evaluate the main factors influencing the metal concentrations (proximity to major roads, presence of effluents, and milking method). The study findings demonstrate that the proximity of the farms to major roads influences the concentrations of Cd, Pb, and Cu and that this is the main factor explaining the Pb content of milk. In addition, the presence of effluents influenced the concentrations of Cu, while no relationship between the metal content and the milking method was observed. Thus, in accordance with the study findings, the consumption of cow's milk produced in the region can be considered a risk to public health due to the high concentrations of Pb and the low concentrations of other essential minerals such as Cu, Zn, and Fe in some of the milk samples.

Evaluation of metal exposure through the composition of essential and toxic micro-minerals in freshwater turtles (Phrynops geoffroanus) from a Brazilian river.

This study aimed to evaluate metal exposure through the concentration of essential and toxic micro-minerals in biological samples of Phrynops geoffroanus from an anthropized river. The work was carried out in four areas with different flow characteristics and uses of the river, where individuals of both sexes were captured during the dry and rainy seasons. The elements Al, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, and Zn were quantified in samples of serum (168), muscle (62), liver (61), and kidney (61) by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The concentration of the elements varied according to the sample type, being higher in the liver and the kidney. In the serum, many elements were below the limit of quantification, but it was possible to determine Al, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn. The liver showed high levels of Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn, and muscle for Fe, Ni, Pb, and Zn, with most of the elements accumulated in the kidney (Al, Cd, Co, Cr, Mn, Mo, and Ni) relative to other tissues. There was no significant difference between the sexes in the accumulation of elements. Between seasons, Cu was higher in serum and Mn in muscle and liver in the dry period, while in the kidney, almost all the elements were higher in the rainy period. The concentrations of the elements in the samples indicated a high degree of environmental contamination, representing risk in the use of the river and consumption of food from local fisheries.

Sugarcane yeast with urea in replace of soybean meal in the diet of Murrah buffaloes does not cause metabolic, endocrine, and mineral disorders.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the replacement of soybean meal by increasing levels of sugarcane yeast and urea on the energy, enzymatic, protein, mineral, and hormonal profiles of buffalo heifers. Twenty Murrah heifers with an average body weight of 168 ± 2.0 kg and 1 year old were used in a completely randomized design. The treatments consisted of the replacement of soybean meal by increasing levels of sugarcane yeast and urea (0, 33, 67, and 100% dry matter). The animals were weighed at the beginning and end of the experimental period, and blood was collected on the final day. The replacement of soybean meal with sugarcane yeast influenced the performance and metabolic dynamics, with total weight gain (P = 0.005) and average daily gain (P = 0.015), presenting, for both variables, a quadratic effect. Considering the biochemical profile, there was an influence on the serum concentration of triglycerides (P = 0.055), the serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and alkaline phosphatase (P < 0.05), in addition to the serum concentration of phosphorus (P = 0.007) and potassium (P = 0.053), which showed positive linear effects. The hormonal profile was not influenced by diets (P > 0.05). The elements copper, iron, and zinc were able to be quantified at all levels of sugarcane yeast and urea in the diets offered. The use of sugarcane yeast with urea promotes adequate metabolic response of buffalo heifers and can replace up to 100% of soybean meal in the concentrate.

Effect of Crude Glycerin in the Feed of Lactating Goats on Concentrations of Essential and Toxic Metals in Serum, Urine, Milk, and Artisanal "Coalho" Cheese.

Goat farming is concentrated in semi-arid and tropical regions in Brazil. From 2006 to 2017, the number of goats sold in the country increased by 65.7%. The dairy products from these animals present higher digestibility, high vitamin A and B content, hypoallergenicity, and less lactose compared to dairy products from cows, in addition to having a higher sales value. Since corn and soybean meal generate an expense for feed management, crude glycerin, originating from the manufacture of biodiesel, has been studied as an energy substitute. However, this product contains heavy metals, posing risks to animal and human health. Few data are available on trace elements in biological samples and products derived from goats' milk with the dietary introduction of glycerin. The objective was to quantify aluminum (Al), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in the serum, urine, milk, and artisanal "coalho" cheese of dairy goats fed different levels of crude glycerin in feed management. In total, 16 Saanen goats were selected, lactating females, that were distributed in four Latin squares and randomly treated with different levels of crude glycerin (0, 5, 10, and 15%). After the end of each experiment cycle, serum, urine, milk, and artisanal "coalho" cheese samples were collected at the four moments. The samples were submitted to digestion assisted by microwave radiation. The multi-element analysis was carried out using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). There was no influence of crude glycerin levels replacing corn in serum, milk, urine, and artisanal "coalho" cheese. The serum concentration of the metals Cu, Fe, Zn, and Mn; urine concentrations of Cu, Zn, Mn, Mo, and Cr; and milk and artisanal "coalho" cheese concentrations of Cu, Zn, and Mn remained within the standards found in the literature. The inclusion of 5 to 15% of crude glycerin, derived from cotton oil, in the diets of dairy goats in partial replacement of corn, does not alter the concentration of essential and toxic metals in serum, urine, milk, and artisanal "coalho" cheese and does not, therefore, present a risk factor for intoxication.

The effectiveness of insulin therapy in the functional and morphological recovery of leydig cells in rats submitted to Diabetes mellitus

The effects of systemic insulin administration at different concentrations on the testicular tissue of diabetic adult rats, induced by streptozotocin, are evaluated by the morphological analysis of spermatogenic process. Twenty-four adult male rats were divided into 1) Control Group: they received citrate buffer, by intraperitoneal injection; 2) Diabetic Group: induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg. kg-1 of body weight); 3) Insulin 50%: induced diabetes treated with half of standard dosage of insulin; 4) Insulin 100%: induced diabetes treated with standard dose of insulin. After eight weeks, animals were weighted and anesthetized; testicles were removed and processed in resin. Body and testicular weight of diabetic rats decreased when compared to that of control. Parameters increased with insulin therapy. Testosterone levels were low in diabetic animals but rates recovered after insulin therapy. Nuclear diameter and volume of Leydig cells decreased in diabetic rats although they significantly increased after insulin therapy. Results showed that the administration of insulin in diabetic rats promoted a protective effect of testicular parenchyma, enhancing efficient recovery on testosterone levels and increase in daily sperm production.

Serum concentrations of folic acid and cobalamin and energy metabolism of ewes as a function of the energy density of the diet, peripartum period, and pregnancy toxemia.

The aim of this study was to determine the serum levels of folic acid, cobalamin, and indicators of energy metabolism during the peripartum period of ewes submitted to different diets and with or without pregnancy toxemia. Forty Santa Inês ewes were divided into three groups, a group of 20 animals fed only roughage-diet with low energy density (G1), a group of 10 ewes submitted to diet containing roughage and concentrate-diet with high energy density (G2), and a group of 10 ewes with diagnosis of pregnancy toxemia (PT) (G3). In the ewes of groups G1 and G2, blood samples were collected -30, -15, -7 days pre-partum, on the day of partum, and 7, 15, and 30 days postpartum; blood samples from G3 animals were collected during the veterinary clinic care. Significant variations were observed in the plasma concentration of glucose and serum folic acid, cobalamin, fructosamine, NEFA, and ß-hydroxybutyrate in the groups fed diets with different energy levels, with and without PT (P < 0.05). A positive correlation of folic acid and cobalamin was observed with plasma glucose and serum NEFA concentrations, in addition to negative correlation of glucose with NEFA and ß-hydroxybutyrate and positive correlation between the latter biomarkers of energy metabolism. The ewes diagnosed with PT showed higher levels of folic acid, NEFA, and ß-hydroxybutyrate (P < 0.05). Ewes fed diet containing roughage and concentrate present higher serum levels of folic acid, cobalamin, and glucose, in the pre-partum period and in the lactation period. The results obtained contribute to better understanding of the application of blood concentration tests for folic acid and cobalamin in the energy metabolism and in PT in ewes.

Kidney changes in lambs fed cactus pear varieties resistant to Dactylopius opuntiae as the only roughage.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of four varieties of cactus pear resistant to carmine cochineal as exclusive roughage for lambs on the biochemical, histopathological, and histomorphometric parameters of kidneys. Twenty-four castrated male crossbred lambs at eight months of age and an initial body weight of 21.0 ± 0.5 kg were distributed in a completely randomized design, with four treatments and six repetitions. The experimental treatments consisted of four diets containing Miúda cactus pear, IPA-Sertânia cactus pear, IPA-F21 cactus pear, or Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (OEM) cactus pear as the only roughage. Blood samples were collected every two weeks (14 d, 28 d, 42 d, and 56 d) to quantify serum urea and creatinine levels. After 72 days of the introduction of the tested diets, the animals were slaughtered and fragments of the kidneys were collected for histological analysis. The serum urea level was higher in animals fed a diet based on the Miúda variety (49.38 mg dL-1), and the serum creatinine levels were lower in the last two collections (P = 0.009). The most frequent histopathological findings in the kidneys were calcification, congestion, glomerular atrophy, presence of luminal cellular debris, and nephrosis, regardless of the cactus pear variety. The Miúda cactus pear and OEM cactus pear varieties caused more severe damage to the nephron components, while the varieties IPA F-21 and IPA-Sertânia caused less significant injuries. The use of IPA-Sertânia and IPA F-21 cactus pear varieties is suggested in lamb's diets, due to the lower impact on the renal parenchyma. However, there was no expressive impairment of renal function, and there was no difference between the cactus pear varieties tested in this study on the weight gain of the animals, and they can all be used to feed feedlot sheep.

Concentrations of Essential Trace and Toxic Elements Associated with Production and Manufacturing Processes in Galician Cheese.

The objective of this study was to determine the trace element composition and the toxic metal residues in Galician cow's milk cheese produced in different systems (artisan, industrial, and organic). Fourteen elements (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, I, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Se, and Zn) were determined in 58 representative samples of Galician cheeses by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The toxic elements were present at low concentrations, similar to those reported for other unpolluted geographical areas. The essential elements were also within the normal range in cheeses. There were no statistically significant differences between smoked and unsmoked cheeses for any of the elements. Chemometric analyses (principal component analysis and cluster analysis) revealed that the industrial cheeses produced in Galicia using the milk from intensive dairy farms were different, in terms of elemental content, from artisan and organic cheeses, in which the elemental contents were similar.

Diets containing cactus cladodes on serum and liver levels of microminerals in sheep and goats.

Two experiments were performed to evaluate the effects of partial replacement of Tifton hay by Miúda cactus cladodes (Nopalea) or Orelha de Elefante Mexicana (O.E.M.) cactus cladodes (Opuntia) on serum and liver concentrations of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn) in feedlot small ruminants. The experiment 1 (Exp. 1) lasted 86 days, and thirty-six male Santa Inês lambs (22.0 ± 2.9 kg initial body weight-IBW) were used. In experiment 2 (Exp. 2), lasting 100 days, thirty-six male goats of undefined breed (19.0 ± 2.8 kg IBW) were used. In both studies, the animals were distributed in a completely randomized design, with three treatments (diet control-without cactus; and diets with hay partially replaced by Miúda or O.E.M. cactus cladodes) and twelve replicates. Blood samples were collected to quantify serum micromineral levels, and at the end of the feedlot periods, sheep and goats were slaughtered and liver fragments were collected for micromineral dosage. In Exp. 1, lambs fed Nopalea cactus cladodes diet showed greater hepatic Cu accumulation (441.87 mg/kg DM; P = 0.027). The diets containing cactus cladodes tended to increase serum levels of Cu (P = 0.075) and Zn (P = 0.058). In Exp. 2, goats fed diet containing Opuntia cactus cladodes presented higher serum levels of Fe (P = 0.024) and Cu (P = 0.012). In conclusion, the partial replacement of Tifton hay by cactus cladodes increases hepatic concentrations of Cu in lambs and serum levels of Fe and Cu in goats.

Histomorphometric and oxidative evaluation of the offspring's testis from type 2 diabetic female rats treated with metformin and pentoxifylline.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) during pregnancy is characterized by high levels of reactive oxygen species and pro-inflammatory factors in the placenta. Once these reactive species reach the foetus, they trigger physiological adaptations that allow the foetus to survive, but programme the organism to develop metabolic disorders in adulthood. The male reproductive system is highly susceptible to foetal programming. This study aimed to investigate the effects of intrauterine exposure to T2D on testicular histomorphometry and redox homeostasis of adult rats and evaluate the effects of maternal treatment with metformin and pentoxifylline. Female rats were induced to T2D, then treated with metformin and pentoxifylline, or co-treated with both drugs. The females were mated, the male offspring were sacrificed on postnatal day 90, and the testicles were collected for analysis. Metformin protected the tubular compartment, with the maintenance of the Sertoli cell population and daily sperm production. Pentoxifylline attenuated the effects of diabetes on Leydig cells, in addition to stimulating testosterone production and lowering lipid peroxidation. Intrauterine exposure to T2D results in important testicular alterations that compromise gonadal function, and the co-treatment with metformin and pentoxifylline may represent a promising therapy that attenuates these effects by combining the positive influences in both the tubular and interstitial compartments of the testicular parenchyma.

Hyponatremia in sheep in Northeastern Brazil / Hiponatremia em ovinos no Nordeste do Brasil

Mineral deficiencies are important causes of productive losses in ruminant farming, especially in semiarid regions. This study aimed to determine Na, K, and Cl serum concentrations, plus the salivary concentrations of Na and K in sheep raised in a semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil, and to report the epidemiology, clinical and the pathological aspects of an outbreak of hyponatremia in sheep. For this, serum and salivary samples of 55 sheep were collected in 6 different farms in the region. Na, K, and Cl concentrations were determined by colorimetric test, using commercial kits in a semi-automatic biochemical analyzer. The mean serum concentrations ranged from 131.5±13.1mEq/L to 172.4±9.3mEq/L for Na, 6.28±1.3mEq/L to 13.9±1.4mEq/L for K, and 91.6±54.8mEq/L to 113.6±1.5mEq/L for Cl. The mean salivary concentrations ranged from 119.4±9.5mEq/L to 161.8±15.2mEq/L for Na, 10.1±3.1mEq/L to 22.3±2.3mEq/L for K, and the ratio Na:K ranged from 6.0±1.3mEq/L to 11.8±4.1mEq/L. These results revealed that most sheep raised in the farms in this region are marginally depleted in sodium. In one farm, sheep had severe clinical signs of Na deficiency consisting of haggard appearance, craving for salt, polydipsia, polyuria, dry cough, inappetence, pica, weakness, difficulty to rise and move, severe emaciation, and dehydration. On autopsy, the ruminal content was generally impacted, giving to the content an aspect of clay balls. Four sheep presented hypertrophy of the adrenal glands. Histopathologically, the width of the zona glomerulosa was expanded, there was loss of the architecture and loss of adrenocortical cell cords. The epithelial cells in the zona glomerulosa and fasciculata were pyramidal, and contained hypereosinophilic cytoplasm and hyperchromatic nuclei. These data demonstrate the occurrence of Na deficiency in different degrees in sheep farms in the State of Pernambuco and highlight the importance of providing NaCl to avoid outbreaks of hyponatremia.

Deficiências minerais são importantes causas de perdas produtivas em criações de ruminantes, sobretudo em regiões semiáridas. Este trabalho teve como objetivo determinar as concentrações séricas de Na, K e Cl, além das concentrações salivares de Na e K em ovinos criados em uma região semiárida do Nordeste do Brasil e relatar a epidemiologia e os aspectos clínicos e patológicos de um surto de hiponatremia severa em ovinos. Para isso, amostras de soro e saliva de 55 ovinos foram coletadas em 6 diferentes fazendas da região. As concentrações de Na, K e Cl foram determinadas por teste colorimétrico, utilizando kits comerciais em analisador bioquímico semiautomático. As concentrações séricas médias variaram de 131,5±13,1mEq/L a 172,4±9,3mEq/L para Na, 6,28±1,3mEq/L a 13,9±1,4mEq/L para K e 91,6±54,8mEq/L a 113,6±1,5mEq/L para Cl. As concentrações salivares médias variaram de 119,4±9,5mEq/L a 161,8±15,2mEq/L para Na, 10,1±3,1mEq/L a 22,3±2,3mEq/L para K, e a razão Na: K variou de 6,0±1,3mEq/L a 11,8±4,1mEq/L. Esses resultados revelaram que a maioria dos ovinos criados nas fazendas desta região são marginalmente sódio deficientes. Em uma fazenda, os ovinos apresentavam um quadro clínico grave de deficiência de Na. Os principais sinais clínicos consistiam em apatia, avidez por sal, polidipsia, poliúria, tosse seca, inapetência, pica, fraqueza, dificuldade de se levantar e se locomover, emagrecimento e desidratação. À necropsia, o conteúdo ruminal estava geralmente compactado, dando ao conteúdo um aspecto de bolas de argila. Quatro ovelhas apresentaram hipertrofia das glândulas adrenais. Histopatologicamente, a zona glomerulosa apresentava-se espessa, com perda da arquitetura e desarranjo dos cordões celulares. As células epiteliais da zona glomerulosa e fasciculada eram piramidais, apresentavam citoplasma hipereosinofílico e continham núcleos hipercromáticos. Esses dados demonstram a ocorrência de deficiência de Na em diferentes graus em criações de ovinos no Estado de Pernambuco e evidencia a importância do fornecimento de NaCl para a prevenção de surtos de hiponatremia.

Parasites and health status of free-ranging capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) in the Atlantic Forest and Caatinga biomes of Brazil.

Due to the degradation and loss of its natural habitat, the presence of capybaras in urban environments and crop areas has been frequently reported in various regions of Brazil. The objective of this study was to identify the parasitic fauna of free-living capybaras in two impacted biomes of the northeastern region (Atlantic Forest and Caatinga), as well as to evaluate the impact of parasitism on the health of these rodents. For this, ticks, fecal and blood samples (for hematology and serum biochemistry evaluation) were collected from 23 free-ranging capybaras from four areas of Atlantic Forest (areas 1, 2 and 3) and Caatinga (area 4) biomes. Of the 23 animals with parasites, 73.9% (17/23) were parasitized simultaneously by gastrointestinal parasites (GIP) (Strongylida, Strongyloides chapini, Capillaria sp., Trematoda and Eimeria sp.) and Amblyomma ticks (larvae of Amblyomma sp. - areas 1, 2, and 3; Amblyomma dubitatum - areas 1 and 2; A. sculptum - areas 3 and 4), while 26.1% (6/23) were parasitized exclusively by ticks. The trematode Hippocrepis hippocrepis was collected during the necropsy of one animal that died during the study. Most hematological and serum biochemical parameters were within the reference values for the species, except AST, albumin, urea, and Na, which presented higher values. Some parameters presented statistically significant differences associated with parasitism, with higher values for animals with co-infection (GIP and ticks) than animals parasitized by ticks only: leukocyte counts (p = 0.0332), neutrophils (p = 0.0498), monocytes (p = 0.0443), as well as creatinine (p = 0.0422) and lactate (p = 0.0307). This may mean that the GIP identified in this study can have a greater impact on the hematological and serum biochemical parameters. However, although parasitized and living in threatened biomes, the animals were healthy, demonstrating that they could be adapted to parasitism. Amblyomma sculptum was recorded for the first time in capybaras in the Caatinga biome in Pernambuco state. The presence of A. sculptum evidences the need for studies about the infection by Rickettsia on capybaras and their ticks, to provide data on the potential risk of occurrence of Brazilian Spotted Fever in Pernambuco state, within a One Health perspective.

Multi-elemental exposure assessment through concentrations in hair of free-ranging capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris Linnaeus, 1766) in the Atlantic Forest remnants, Northeast of Brazil.

This study aimed to determine the mineral profile of hair samples of free-ranging capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) in remnants of the Atlantic Forest located in the Northeast of Brazil, and to evaluate the effects of origin, gender and age of the animals on their mineral accumulation in hair. Twenty hair samples from animals of different areas, genders and ages were prepared using microwave-assisted digestion, employing 5 mL of HNO3 and 2.5 mL of H2SO4 for 100 mg of sample. Digestion efficiency was assessed by residual carbon content. The digested samples were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed considering the composition data of 11 elements (Al, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, Mo, and Na). The digestion method applied was efficient and the most abundant elements with their respective concentration ranges in mg kg-1 were Al (396-2746), Ca (36-3420), Fe (476-51180), K (115-4843), and Na (72-473). ANOVA and PCA differentiated among the capybaras regarding age (adults) and origin (A3), both associated with higher concentrations of Al, Cd, Fe, and K. Although a higher metal bioaccumulation was observed in adult animals, it is important to highlight that this result could have been affected by diet and physiological parameters. The results suggest that A3 was the most anthropized remnant area due to agricultural and urban influences. Multi-elemental determination in hair can be used as a non-invasive method to assess heavy metal contamination in capybaras.

Hematologic response and serum and peritoneal fluid proteinogram of cattle affected by intestinal diseases and traumatic reticuloperitonitis / Resposta hematológica e proteinograma sérico e do líquido peritoneal de bovinos acometidos com enfermidades intestinais e reticuloperitonite traumática

This study aimed to evaluate the hematologic response and the serum and peritoneal fluid (PF) proteinogram of cattle affected by digestive diseases. Twenty-seven animals were distributed in two groups: GI (intestinal diseases) and GII (traumatic reticuloperitonitis, TRP). The animals were previously submitted to a physical exam. Subsequently, blood samples were collected to perform the complete blood count, determine the plasma protein and fibrinogen, and obtain the serum for proteinogram in polyacrylamide gel (SDS-PAGE). Simultaneously, PF was collected to perform physical and chemical evaluation and the electrophoretic profile (SDS-PAGE). ANOVA at the 5% probability level was used to compare the groups. The animals showed signs of apathy, dehydration, and gastrointestinal hypomotility in both groups. However, GI animals showed more significant clinical changes. The blood count of both groups (P > 0.05) showed leukocytosis due to neutrophilia and a regenerative left shift with hyperfibrinogenemia. The proteinogram of both body fluids allowed the identification of proteins albumin (ALB), transferrin (TRF), ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, α1-acid glycoprotein (α1-AGP), MW 23000 Da, α1-antitrypsin, IgA, and IgG. The [PT] PF/[PT] blood serum ratio of each of the identified proteins increased, showing statistical differences between groups (P < 0.05) regarding PT, ALB, TRF, α1-AGP, and IgG values, with GI animals showing the highest ratio. Intestinal diseases and TRP triggered a systemic and local response characterized by clinical, hematological, and serum and PF proteinogram alterations. The proteins α1-GPA, haptoglobin, and TRF measured in PF were good inflammation biomarkers and useful as an auxiliary tool for the diagnosis and prognosis of digestive diseases in cattle.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a resposta hematológica e o proteinograma sérico e do líquido peritoneal (LP) de bovinos acometidos com doenças digestivas. Foram avaliados 27 bovinos distribuídos em dois grupos, GI (enfermidades intestinais) e GII (reticuloperitonite traumática-RPT). Os animais foram previamente submetidos ao exame físico. Posteriormente foram colhidas amostras de sangue para realização do hemograma, determinação plasmática da proteína e do fibrinogênio e obtenção do soro para realização do proteinograma em gel de poliacrilamida (SDS-PAGE). Simultaneamente foi colhido o LP para avaliação física e química, assim como a realização do perfil eletroforético (SDS-PAGE). Empregou-se a análise de variância ao nível de 5% de probabilidade visando à comparação entre os grupos. Em ambos os grupos os animais demonstraram sinais de apatia, desidratação e hipomotilidade gastrointestinal, no entanto, os animais do GI apresentaram alterações clínicas mais expressivas. No hemograma observou-se em ambos os grupos (P > 0,05) leucocitose por neutrofilia e desvio à esquerda regenerativo com hiperfibrinogenia. O proteinograma de ambos os fluidos corpóreos permitiu a identificação das proteínas albumina (ALB), transferrina (TRF), ceruloplasmina, haptoglobina, α-1 glicoproteína ácida (α1-GPA), PM 23.000 Da, α-1 anti-tripsina, IgA e IgG. Os valores da relação [PT] LP / [PT] soro sanguíneo de cada uma das proteínas identificadas demonstrou elevação dos mesmos, bem como diferença estatística entre grupos (P < 0,05) nos valores da PT, ALB, TRF, α1-GPA e IgG, nos quais a relação foi mais elevada nos animais do GI. As enfermidades intestinais e a RPT desencadearam resposta sistêmica e local caracterizada pelas alterações clínicas, hematológicas, e do proteinograma sérico e do LP. A α1-GPA, a haptoglobina e a TRF, mensuradas no LP se mostraram bons biomarcadores de inflamação, sendo úteis como recurso auxiliar de diagnóstico e prognóstico das doenças digestivas dos bovinos.(AU)

Effect of green tea extract (Camellia sinensis) on the spermatic parameters of Wistar rats submitted or not to testicular heat shock.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of green tea extract (GTE) on the spermatic parameters of Wistar rats, submitted or not to testicular heat shock (HS). For this, 48 animals were treated according to the experimental groups (G1: not exposed to HS and untreated; G2: exposed to HS and untreated; G3: not exposed to HS and treated with GTE; G4: exposed to HS and treated with GTE). Subgroups of rats were euthanized on days 15, 30, and 60 to recover the spermatozoa. The total motility (TM), vigor, spermatic morphology and concentration, mitochondrial membrane potential, plasma membrane integrity, and acrosome integrity (ACi) were analyzed. The TM was higher in G1 and G3 than in G2 and G4 on day 30, and higher in G4 on day 60. The overall means of TM and vigor were higher in G1 and G3 than in G2 and G4, as well as TM on day 60. For the morphology, G2 and G4 were lower than G1 and G3 on day 15, and G4 was lower than G1 and G3 on day 30. Moreover, in G1 and G3 morphology was higher on days 15 and 30, and in G4 it was lower on day 30, with the overall means being higher in G1 and G3 than in G2 and G4, as well as on days 15 and 60 compared to day 30. The overall mean of ACi, on day 30, was lower than on days 15 and 60 for all the groups. Therefore, HS is shown to be widely deleterious to the gametes, and the daily administration of 100 mg/kg green tea extract does not improve the spermatic parameters of Wistar rats, submitted or not to testicular HS, although it leads to better recovery of spermatic motility and morphology at 60 days.

Biomarcadores sanguíneos e no líquido peritoneal de bovinos acometidos com enfermidades intestinais e reticulites traumáticas / Biomarkers blood and peritoneal fluid of bovines with intestinal diseases and traumatic reticulitis

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar simultaneamente biomarcadores no sangue e no líquido peritoneal (LP) de bovinos com enfermidades intestinais (GI n=14) e reticulites traumáticas (GII n=13). O exame clínico e a coleta de sangue e de LP foram realizadas e, posteriormente, análise física e citológica do LP, bem como as determinações bioquímicas no sangue e no LP. Empregou-se a análise de variância ao nível de 5% de probabilidade comparando os grupos e comparando o sangue e o LP. Em ambos os grupos foram evidenciados sinais de apatia, desidratação e hipomotilidade reticuloruminal, porém os animais do GI apresentaram alterações clínicas mais expressivas. À análise citológica do LP No sangue as concentrações de PT, globulina, colesterol e GGT foram superiores no GII (P<0,05), e a relação A/G foi maior no GI (P<0,05). No LP a albumina e a CK foram superiores no GI (P<0,05). Na comparação entre o sangue e LP, destacou-se o aumento significativo do lactato L no LP de ambos os grupos (P<0,05), caracterizando a gravidade das alterações presentes na cavidade abdominal. Recomendase a avaliação simultânea no sangue e no LP do lactato L como informação de auxílio diagnóstico e prognóstico das enfermidades digestivas dos bovinos.

The objective of this study was to simultaneously evaluate biomarkers in the blood and peritoneal fluid (PF) of cattle with intestinal diseases (GI n=14) and traumatic reticulitis (GII n=13). A clinical examination and blood collection and PF were performed and subsequently, physical and cytological analysis of PF, as well as biochemical determinations in blood and PF. The analysis of variance was used at a 5% probability level comparing the groups and comparing blood and PF. In both groups, signs of apathy, dehydration and reticuloruminal hypomotility were evidenced, but the GI animals presented more expressive clinical alterations. In the cytological analysis of PF, a predominance of polymorfhonuclear was observed in both groups. Blood TP, globulin, cholesterol and GGT concentrations were higher in GII (P<0.05), and the A/G ratio was higher in GI (P <0.05). In PF, albumin and CK were higher in GI (P<0.05). In the comparison between blood and PF, the significant increase of L-lactate in the PF of both groups (P<0.05) was observed, characterizing the severity of the alterations present in the abdominal cavity. It is recommended the simultaneous evaluation of L-lactate in the blood and PF, as a tool for diagnosis and prognosis of bovine digestive diseases.

Biomarcadores sanguíneos e no líquido peritoneal de bovinos acometidos com enfermidades intestinais e reticulites traumáticas / Biomarkers blood and peritoneal fluid of bovines with intestinal diseases and traumatic reticulitis

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar simultaneamente biomarcadores no sangue e no líquido peritoneal (LP) de bovinos com enfermidades intestinais (GI n=14) e reticulites traumáticas (GII n=13). O exame clínico e a coleta de sangue e de LP foram realizadas e, posteriormente, análise física e citológica do LP, bem como as determinações bioquímicas no sangue e no LP. Empregou-se a análise de variância ao nível de 5% de probabilidade comparando os grupos e comparando o sangue e o LP. Em ambos os grupos foram evidenciados sinais de apatia, desidratação e hipomotilidade reticuloruminal, porém os animais do GI apresentaram alterações clínicas mais expressivas. À análise citológica do LP No sangue as concentrações de PT, globulina, colesterol e GGT foram superiores no GII (P<0,05), e a relação A/G foi maior no GI (P<0,05). No LP a albumina e a CK foram superiores no GI (P<0,05). Na comparação entre o sangue e LP, destacou-se o aumento significativo do lactato L no LP de ambos os grupos (P<0,05), caracterizando a gravidade das alterações presentes na cavidade abdominal. Recomendase a avaliação simultânea no sangue e no LP do lactato L como informação de auxílio diagnóstico e prognóstico das enfermidades digestivas dos bovinos.(AU)

The objective of this study was to simultaneously evaluate biomarkers in the blood and peritoneal fluid (PF) of cattle with intestinal diseases (GI n=14) and traumatic reticulitis (GII n=13). A clinical examination and blood collection and PF were performed and subsequently, physical and cytological analysis of PF, as well as biochemical determinations in blood and PF. The analysis of variance was used at a 5% probability level comparing the groups and comparing blood and PF. In both groups, signs of apathy, dehydration and reticuloruminal hypomotility were evidenced, but the GI animals presented more expressive clinical alterations. In the cytological analysis of PF, a predominance of polymorfhonuclear was observed in both groups. Blood TP, globulin, cholesterol and GGT concentrations were higher in GII (P<0.05), and the A/G ratio was higher in GI (P <0.05). In PF, albumin and CK were higher in GI (P<0.05). In the comparison between blood and PF, the significant increase of L-lactate in the PF of both groups (P<0.05) was observed, characterizing the severity of the alterations present in the abdominal cavity. It is recommended the simultaneous evaluation of L-lactate in the blood and PF, as a tool for diagnosis and prognosis of bovine digestive diseases.(AU)

Cardiac, energy and hormonal blood markers, and lactatemia in cows with displaced abomasum

Background: Displaced abomasum (DA) is a common and economically important disorder that affects dairy cattle. Nutritional factors and adaptive responses that occur in the peripartum play a central role in the pathogenesis. The measurement of blood metabolites represents a useful tool for monitoring and prognostic determination in affected animals. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate cardiac, energy and hormonal blood markers, lactatemia, and insulin sensitivity in cows diagnosed with right displaced abomasum (RDA) and left displaced abomasum (LDA), comparing them with each other. Materials, Methods & Results: Nineteen cases of abomasum displacement in cows were studied, including 9 cases of RDA and 10 cases of LDA. The diagnosis was established by means of physical examination and measurement of the concentration of chlorides in the ruminal fluid (> 30 mEq/L). After diagnosis, clinical-surgical therapeutic management was instituted. At the time of diagnosis (M1) and at the resolution of the case (M2), blood samples were collected to assess the variables: non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta hydroxybutyrate (βHB), L-lactate, creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase MB (CK-MB), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), glucose, insulin, and cortisol. In addition, insulin sensitivity was estimated using the Revised Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (RQUICKI) and RQUICKI-βHB. The means of the variables were compared, separating the effects of groups (RDA and LDA) and moments (M1 and M2), at the level of 5% probability. The concentrations of NEFA, CK-MB, L-lactate, glucose, insulin, and cortisol were higher at M1 and the RQUICKI and RQUICKI-βHB indices were lower at this moment. L-lactate, CK, and CK-MB were higher in the RDA group, while cTnI, βHB, and LDH did not present a group or moment effect. Cardiac markers correlated with the energy profile metabolites, L-lactate, and cortisol. Discussion: The high...