Abstract This study aimed to determine whether the addition of a microencapsulated herbal blend (MHB) based on thymol, carvacrol, and cinnamaldehyde in dairy sheep feed would improve production efficiency, milk quality, and animal health. Thirty lactating Lacaune ewes were divided into three groups: Control (T0), 150 mg blend/kg of feed (T150), and 250 mg blend/kg of feed (T250). Milk was measured before the beginning of the experiment (d 0), at the end of the adaptation period (d 15), and during the experiment (d 20). In milk samples, was measured the composition, somatic cell count (SCC), reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipoperoxidation (LPO), and total antioxidant capacity. The MHB improved the milk production (only T150 vs. T0 sheep on d 20), productive efficiency and feed efficiency, and reduced the milk SCC (only T250 vs. T0 sheep, on d 20), ROS and tended to reduce the milk levels of LPO (only T250 vs. T0 sheep on d 20). Also, MHB reduced the blood levels of neutrophils and ROS (only T250 vs. T0 sheep on d 20) and increased total protein and globulin levels. Thus, a microencapsulated blend of thymol, carvacrol, and cinnamaldehyde improved the productive performance and milk quality of sheep.

Abstract Although widely used in medicine, separation technology, and other fields, the effects of cyclodextrins on the activities of phosphoryl transfer enzymes have not been previously evaluated. In vivo studies evaluated the function of cyclodextrins as active compounds. Despite the use of cyclodextrins as active compounds, the effects of cyclodextrins on hepatic and renal tissues remain to be fully elucidated. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of β- cyclodextrins, methyl-β-cyclodextrin (M-β- cyclodextrins), and (2-hydroxypropyl)-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-cyclodextrins) on enzyme activities regulating the maintenance of energy homeostasis in the kidney and liver tissues in relation to toxicity. Serum levels of liver and kidney markers were measured, and oxidative stress parameters were assessed. After 60-day treatments, we observed that the administration of β-cyclodextrins and M-β-cyclodextrins inhibited the hepatic activity of pyruvate kinase, an irreversible enzyme within the glycolytic pathway. Additionally, administration of HP-β-cyclodextrins inhibited creatine kinase activity and increased the total sulfhydryl content in kidneys. Here, we demonstrated for the first time that β-cyclodextrins, M-β-cyclodextrins, and HP-β-cyclodextrins cause bioenergetic dysfunction in renal and hepatic tissues. These findings suggest that understanding the balance between cyclodextrins’ efficacy and adverse effects is essential for better accepting their use in medicine.

Abstract This study evaluated of the effects of açai oil during the close-up dry period of Holstein cows on colostrum quality, as well as on the immune and antioxidant responses of their calves. Sixteen multiparous cows were assigned randomly to two treatments: 1) CONTROL (n = 8) - 4.48% of soybean oil/concentrate; 2) AÇAI (n =8) - 4.48% of açai oil/concentrate. Cows fed with açai oil had greater (P≤0.04) colostrum concentrations of immunoglobulins (Ig) G (1st and 2nd milking), IgG heavy chains, IgA (only at 1st milking), alpha-lactalbumin (1st milking), total protein, and antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (only at 1st milking). Cows fed with açai oil had greater serum concentrations of globulin (only on the day of calving) and total protein (only on the day of calving) (P = 0.03). Calves born of cows fed with açai oil had greater serum concentrations of total protein (only 24 and 48 h after calving) and serum concentration of IgG heavy chain (only 24 h after calving) and globulin (only 24 and 48 h after calving) (P = 0.01). These data suggest that the addition of açai oil in the cow feed during the close-up dry period boosted immunity in their calves by altering the composition of colostrum.

Abstract Inflammatory dermatoses are prevalent worldwide, with impacts on the quality of life of patients and their families. The aim of this study was to determine the anti-inflammatory effects of Achyrocline satureioides oily extracts and nanocapsules on the skin using a mouse model of irritant contact dermatitis induced by croton oil, and a skin inflammation model induced by ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation. The mice were treated with 15 mg/ear oily extract (HG-OLAS) or nanocapsules (HG-NCAS) of A. satureioides incorporated into Carbopol® 940 hydrogels. We found that HG-OLAS and HG-NCAS formulations reduced ear edema in croton oil-induced lesions with maximum inhibitions of 54±7% and 74±3%, respectively. HG-OLAS and HG-NCAS formulations decreased ear edema induced by UVB radiation (0.5 J/cm2), with maximum inhibitions of 68±6% and 76±2% compared to the UVB radiation group, respectively. HG-OLAS and HG-NCAS modulated myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity after croton oil induction. Furthermore, croton oil and UVB radiation for 6 and 24 h, respectively, stimulated polymorphonuclear cells infiltration. The topical treatments reduced inflammatory processes, as shown by histological analysis. Together, the data suggest that topical application of A. satureioides oily extracts and nanocapsules produced antiedematogenic and anti-inflammatory effects. They constitute a compelling alternative for treatment of skin injuries.

Abstract We measured the effects of açai oil in the diets of prepartum cows to evaluate health, milk production and quality. Sixteen Holstein cows were divided into two groups: SOY used as control, and AÇAI, test group. Occurred inclusion of 4% soybean or açai oils was provided in the concentrate starting at 20 days prepartum [d -20 to d 0 (partum-day)]. The AÇAI diet increased (P=0.01) milk production (d 10 and 20) and reduced somatic cell count (d 20). In milk, no effects were detected (P≥0.10) for concentration of fat, lactose or protein as well as in terms of serum concentration of calcium, albumin or triglycerides. AÇAI diet tended to increase (P=0.09) serum concentrations of total protein, glutathione transferase (d 4), and total antioxidant capacity (d 4 and 10) and increased (P≤0.05) globulin, gamma-glutamyl transferase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (d 4). Further, AÇAI diet reduced the serum concentration of creatine kinase (P≤0.05) (d 0, 4 and 10), reactive oxygen species (d 0 and 4) and lipoperoxidation (d 0) and tended to reduce aspartate transaminase activity (P=0.07; d 0 and 4). Açai oil in the diets in prepartum cows improved their health as well as milk production and quality.

Abstract: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is the result of the selective destruction of the pancreatic β-cells by T cells of the immune system. Although spleen is a secondary lymphoid organ, it is also involved in the T1D pathogenesis. However, the alterations in a variety of cellular processes of this disease need to be further understood. We aimed to analyze the benefits of resveratrol, and its complexed form on diabetic complications in the spleen of rats. To this end, we investigated important enzymes of phosphoryl transfer network, and Na+, K+-ATPase activity. Wistar rats were divided into non-diabetic groups: Control, Ethanol, Resveratrol, Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin, Resveratrol-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin, and diabetic groups with the same treatments. Diabetes was induced by a single dose of 60 mg/kg of streptozocin intraperitoneally, and treatments by intragastric gavage once daily for 60 days. Hyperglycemia reduced creatine kinase activity, which was reversed by the administration of resveratrol. Na+, K+-ATPase activity was greatly affected, but it was reversed by resveratrol and resveratrol-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin. This suggest an energetic imbalance in the spleen of diabetic rats, and in case this also occurs in the diabetic patients, it is possible that resveratrol supplementation could be beneficial to the better functioning of the spleen in diabetic patients.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the use phytogenic as feed additive of Holstein calves could exert beneficial effects on animal health and performance. Thirty newborn calves were randomly divided into two groups (control and treated), and the treated consisted of 10 g of the phytogenic product diluted in milk once a day for 30 days. Blood and fecal samples were collected, and fecal score was performed daily in order to determine the occurrence of diarrhea. Treated calves showed higher hematocrit on days 45 and 60 of life. Serum levels of urea, total proteins, globulins and glucose were lower in the treated group on day 60 of life, while triglycerides were lower on days 15 and 60 of life. Serum glutathione S-transferase activity was higher in treated animals on day 60 of life. Fecal bacterial count was lower in treated animals on days 30 and 60 of life. The weight gain was higher in treated animals on days 60 and 210 of life. Based on these results, it is possible to conclude that the addition of phytogenic as feed additive for calves was able to minimize fecal bacterial infections and to increase body weight gain.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of subcutaneous calcium administration in post-partum dairy cows with respect to carbohydrate, protein and lipids metabolism, as well as its effects on milk composition. Twenty post-partum dairy cows were randomly divided into two groups (n=10): a control and a treated group with a single dose (150 mL) of calcium. Blood collection was performed on post-partum days 1, 2, 3, 7 and 10. In addition, we measured serum levels of total calcium, total proteins, albumin, globulins, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, as well as creatine kinase (CK) activity. We determined milk composition on post-partum days 5, 10 and 20. Serum total calcium levels was higher on post-partum days 3 and 7 in the treated group. Serum urea (day 3) and triglycerides (days 7 and 10) levels were higher in the treated group, as were CK activity levels at post-partum days 2 and 3. Serum glucose and cholesterol levels were lower on post-partum day 2 in treated animals. Fat (day 20) and lactose (day 10) content in milk samples were higher than in the treated animals. We concluded that treatment with calcium in cows during the post-partum period changes biochemical variables related to metabolism.

Abstract: The aims of this study were to investigate whether treatments with zinc edetate (Zn) and diphenyl diselenide ((PhSe)2) enhance performance, immune responses, protein metabolism, and oxidant/antioxidant status in calf serum and muscle. Animals were divided into four groups (n=6 each): control (without supplementation), and groups supplemented on days 50 and 70 of life with (PhSe)2, Zn, and a combination of (PhSe)2 and Zn. Animals treated with (PhSe)2 gained more weight by experimental day 220 than did the control group, but there was no difference by the end of the experiment (day 300). The absolute number of leukocytes and lymphocytes increased in groups Zn and (PhSe)2+Zn on day 20 of experiment, but decreased on day 40 in groups (PhSe)2, and (PhSe)2+Zn. The number of monocytes decreased in all groups compared with control. One of the principal findings was that (PhSe)2+Zn together had beneficial effects on protein metabolism, represented by increases total protein and globulin levels, compared with the control group. The combination of (PhSe)2 and Zn led to low levels of TBARS and ROS in serum and muscle, and stimulated antioxidant enzyme activities. Thus, supplementation with (PhSe)2+Zn may be a compelling approach to augmenting the calf antioxidant system during weaning.

Abstract Abstract: This study evaluated the effect of oregano essential oil added to the feed of commercial laying hens. This research was focused on the analysis of biochemical changes linked to hepatic function, and protein and lipid metabolism. It was used 240 laying hens (59 weeks-old) distributed in a completely randomized design of six treatments (five repetitions with eight birds each). The experiments were constituted by a control treatment (CT) with the inclusion of zinc bacitracin and five treatments of oregano essential oil (OEO: 0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 mg.kg-1), respectively. After 28 days of feeding, an increase on serum levels of total proteins and globulins was observed on groups T150 and T200, as well as an increase on albumin levels on group CT. After 84 days of feeding, a significant reduction on total proteins and albumin was observed on group T200, as well as an increase in serum triglycerides. OEO at 200 mg.kg-1 increased globulin levels on day 28, which may be considered an effect in the inflammatory response, which increases serum immunoglobulins and proteins.

Abstract This study was aimed to analyze the effects of spray-dried porcine plasma (SDPP) on the health of post weaning piglets challenged with diets contaminated with aflatoxins and fumonisins. Fifty-six male piglets (7.15 ± 0.61 kg) were allocated in four groups: CTL group received a regular diet; SDPP group received a regular diet and 6% SDPP; MYC group received a diet containing 300 µg/kg aflatoxins and 8,000 µg/kg fumonisins; group MYC+SDPP received 300 µg/kg aflatoxins, 8,000 µg/kg fumonisins and 6% SDPP. The animals that received the experimental diet containing mycotoxins (MYC group) had lower weight gain at the end of the experiment compared to the other treatments. Animals receiving SDPP showed decreased urea levels throughout the experiment (P<0.05). Animals from MYC group presented an increased on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels and decreased catalase activity (P<0.05). In contrast, SDPP prevented the increase of ROS and TBARS and stimulated superoxide dismutase activity (P<0.05). In conclusion, diet contaminated with mycotoxins (group MYC) caused subclinical intoxication in the piglets, as observed by the increase on free radical’s production and lipid peroxidation. Conversely, SDPP presented a protective effect, minimizing the effects of oxidative stress caused by aflatoxins and fumonisins ingestion.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of several anesthetics in the brachyuran crab Neohelice granulata, an emergent experimental model. The essential oils (EOs) of Lippia alba, Aloysia tryphilla, and Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree oil; TTO), the isolated compounds eugenol, menthol, terpinen-4-ol, and the nanoencapsulated form of TTO, were administered in one or more of the following ways: added to the water (immersion), through an arthrodial membrane (injected), or by oral gavage. Unexpectedly, most EOs did not produce an anesthetic effect after immersion. Only TTO and eugenol induced anesthesia by immersion, with very long induction and recovery times compared to anesthesia of other crustaceans. However, a good anesthetic effect was observed with the injection of terpinen-4-ol and nanoencapsulated TTO in N. granulata; both demonstrated ideal induction and recovery times. These substances appear to be promising anesthetic alternatives for crustaceans.

Resumen Objetivo. Debido a la mayor resistencia parásita, hay una necesidad de explorar insecticidas alternativos, incluidos los productos naturales, tales como aceites esenciales. En este sentido, el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar, para el primer equipo, el efecto insecticida y repelente de Cinnamomum zeylanicum (formas libres y nanoemulsión) in vitro e in vivo. Materiales y métodos. Para ello, el efecto insecticida de la forma libre se ensayó a 1.0, 5.0 y 10%, mientras que la forma nanoemulsión se ensayó a 0.5, 1.0 y 5.0% frente a las moscas domésticas adultas, Musca domestica. Para la validación de la prueba, las moscas fueron rociados con el diluyente (agua y triton 10%) y con nanoemulsión en blanco (sin aceite esencial de C. zeylanicum). También, fueron realizados pruebas in vivo usando vacas naturalmente infestadas con Haemotobia irritans. Resultados. Los resultados demostraron que el aceite de canela (10%) y la nanoemulsión (5%) fueron 100% eficaz contra M. domestica después de 90 minutos de exposición. El efecto repelente se ensayó in vivo usando 5% de aceite de canela en vacas Holstein, naturalmente infestados por Haemotobia irritans. Se contaron las moscas a las 0, 1, 2, 3, 9 y 24 h después del tratamiento el aceite de canela. Se verificó disminución significativa (p<0.05) en el número de moscas vivas de vacas canela pulverizada en todo momento. Conclusiones. En base a estos resultados, C. zeylanicum mostró un efecto insecticida (in vitro) contra las moscas domésticas y efecto repelente (in vivo) contra la mosca de los cuernos.

Abstract Objective. Due to the increased parasitic resistance, there is a need to explore alternative insecticides, including natural products, such essential oils. In this sense, the aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the insecticidal and repellent effect of Cinnamomun zeylanicum (free and nanoemulsion forms) in vitro and in vivo. Materials and methods. For that, the insecticidal effect of the free form was tested at 1.0, 5.0 and 10%, while the nanoemulsion form was tested at 0.5, 1.0 and 5.0% against adult house flies, Musca domestica. For validation of the test, the flies were sprayed with the diluent (water and triton 10%) and with blank nanoemulsion (without C. zeylanicum essential oil). Moreover, in vivo test was performed using cows naturally infested with Haemotobia irritans. Results. The results demonstrated that cinnamon oil (10%) and the nanoemulsion (5%) were 100% effective against M. domestica after 90 minutes of exposure. The repellent effect was tested in vivo using 5% of cinnamon oil on Holstein cows naturally infested by Haemotobia irritans. The flies were counted at 0, 1, 2, 3, 9 and 24 h after cinnamon oil treatment. It was verified significant decrease (p<0.05) in the number of flies on cows sprayed with cinnamon in all times. Conclusions. Based on these results, C. zeylanicum showed insecticidal effect (in vitro) against domestic flies and repellent effect (in vivo) against the horn fly.

RESUMEN Objetivo. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la influencia de la suplementación subcutánea con diselenuro de difenilo (PhSe)2 en ovejas lecheras infectadas con nematodos sobre la salud animal y posible daño al ambiente cuando las heces de estos animales se utilicen para fertilizar. Materiales y métodos. El experimento se realizó utilizando 16 ovejas lecheras, que se dividieron en dos grupos: el grupo A se usó como control y el grupo B se suplementó con 3 µmol/kg of (PhSe)2 vía subcutánea. Se utilizaron muestras de sangre para determinar la función hepática, así como el metabolismo de proteínas y lípidos en animales. Las heces se utilizaron para determinar el número de huevos por gramo de heces (EPG), así como para las pruebas de ecotoxicología. Resultados . La suplementación (PhSe)2 no afectó la reproducción de helmintos. Los niveles totales de proteína y globulina aumentan (p<0.05) en los animales suplementados, mientras que los niveles séricos de alanina aminotransferasa (ALT) disminuyen (p<0.05) al final del diseño experimental. Los niveles de colesterol aumentan (p<0.05) en los animales suplementados, mientras que los triglicéridos, la albúmina y la urea no difieren entre los grupos (p>0.05). Las heces de ovejas suplementadas no interferían en la reproducción de las colas de caballo. Conclusiones. A la dosis administrada, el (PhSe)2 no es capaz de controlar el parasitismo; sin embargo, aumenta los niveles de globulinas y colesterol, que son importantes para la respuesta inmune y para la reproducción, respectivamente. Las heces de animales suplementados pueden usarse como fertilizantes orgánicos, sin impactos negativos en ambiente.

ABSTRACT Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of subcutaneous supplementation with diphenyl diselenide ((PhSe)2) in dairy sheep infected with gastrointestinal nematodes on animal health and possible damage to environment when the feces of these animals will be used for fertilizing. Materials and methods. The experiment was performed using 16 primipara dairy sheep, that were divided into two groups: the group A as control and the group B supplemented with 3 µmol/kg of (PhSe)2 subcutaneously. Blood samples were used to determine the hepatic function, as well as the protein and lipid metabolism in animals. Feces were used to determine the number of helminths eggs per gram of feces (EPG), as well as used for ecotoxicology tests. Results. The (PhSe)2 supplementation not affected the helminths reproduction, since the EPG did not differ (p>0.05) between groups. Total protein and globulin levels increase (p<0.05) in supplemented animals, while the seric alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels decrease (p<0.05) in the end of experimental design. Cholesterol levels increase (p<0.05) in the supplemented animals, while triglycerides, albumin and urea not differ between groups (p>0.05). The feces of supplemented sheep not interfered the springtails reproduction. Conclusions. At the administered dose, the (PhSe)2 is not able to control the parasitism, however, it did increase the globulins and cholesterol levels, that are important to immune response and for sheep reproduction, respectively. Also, the feces of supplemented animals with (PhSe)2 can be used as organic fertilizing, without negative impacts to environment.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to modify the fatty acid profile of yogurt from sheep milk by the inclusion of different concentrations of palm oil into their diet. Thus, thirty-six sheep during lactation were separated in four groups with nine animals each, as described below: the group T0 (0%); the group T2 (inclusion of 2% of palm oil); the group T4 (inclusion of 4% of palm oil) and the group T6 (inclusion of 6% of palm oil). After 60 days of the supplementation, milk samples were collected and yogurt was produced, which was evaluated regarding the concentration of saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PFA). A significant reduction (p<0.05) in most SFA and a significant increase (p<0.05) on MFA and PFA was observed in the yogurt of sheep supplemented with 4 and 6% of palm oil. Consequently, it is possible to conclude that palm oil supplementation exerts positive effects on yogurt, since it led to the reduction of undesirable fatty acids and increased fatty acids beneficial to human health.