Analgesia perioperatória de gatas submetidas a ovariohisterectomia eletiva - uso preemptivo de carprofeno ou grapiprant / Perioperative analgesia in cats undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy - preemptive use of carprofen or grapiprant

Background: The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) exert their analgesic effect through peripheral inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis and a variety of other peripheral and central mechanisms. However, NSAIDs are associated with some adverse effects, mainly related to the gastrointestinal, renal, and hepatic systems, highlighting the need for research to develop safer drugs. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of preoperative oral administration of carprofen or grapiprant in female cats submitted to elective ovariohysterectomy on the quality of perioperative analgesia and the need for hypnotic and analgesic drugs. Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-three adult female cats were selected, without defined breed and healthy based on physical examination, routine laboratory analyses (complete blood count, total protein, Heinz body investigation and serum quantification of alanine transaminase [ALT], aspartate transaminase [AST], gamma glutamyl transpeptidase [GGT], alkaline phosphatase [ALP], urea, frutosamine, and glucose) and negative tests for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV). After 3 days of adaptation, they were submitted to ovariohysterectomy by celiotomy and randomly allocated into 2 groups according to the preoperative drug used: GCAR [carprofen - 4 mg/kg, VO, 2 h before surgery; n = 11] and GGRA (grapiprant - 2 mg/kg IV, 2 h before surgery; n = 21]. The cats were pre-medicated with acepromazine 0.05 mg/ kg IV and later submitted to general anesthesia with propofol intravenously. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in 100% oxygen. After anesthetic induction, a continuous infusion of remifentanil at a rate of 10 µg/kg/h was initiated. During the transanesthetic period, the parameters of heart rate; respiratory rate; systolic, mean, and diastolic arterial pressure using the oscillometric method; electrocardiogram; rectal temperature; partial pressure of CO2 at the end of expiration: and partial saturation of O2 in hemoglobin were continuously monitored. The evaluation of nociception was based on the changes in the aforementioned physiological parameters. The rate of remifentanil used did not change over time with the use of carprofen. However, animals that received grapiprant required a lower remifentanil dose at 20, 25, and 30 min during the procedure. The female cats that received carprofen showed an increase in mean heart rate at 30 min compared to that at 20 and 25 min. In the Grapiprant group, the heart rate at 35 min was higher only than that observed at 25 min. Discussion: The remifentanil rate did not differ between the groups, even between the times for GCAR. However, the remifentanil rate was lower from 20 min of the procedure for GGRA. This decrease may be related to a decrease in the need for anesthetics and analgesics by decreasing temperature, which causes decreases in metabolism and surgical stimulation. The increase in systolic, mean, diastolic, and heart rate arterial pressure parameters observed in both treatments after 15 min of anesthesia is related to the nociceptive stimulus resulting from traction and ligation of the ovarian pedicles and maneuvers for exteriorization of the uterus. These are considered the moments of greater surgical stimulus during ovariohysterectomy, evidenced by the greater release of cortisol and increase in physiological parameters. The results of this study show that the administration of carprofen or grapiprant was clinically similar when used preemptively for perioperative analgesia in cats submitted to elective ovariohysterectomy.

Effect of strength training versus raloxifene on bone weight, blood glucose, lipid and antioxidant profile in ovariectomized rats

We compared the effect of the treatment with strength training (ST) and raloxifene (RALOX) on bone weight, blood glucose, lipid, and antioxidant profile in ovariectomized rats. Twenty-four Wistar rats were distributed into four groups: ovariectomy + VEHICLE (control); ovariectomy + RALOX; ovariectomy + ST; ovariectomy + RALOX + ST. Thirty days after ovariectomy, the animals underwent the treatment with RALOX (750 µcg day-1) and/or ST (three sessions week-1). Thirty days after, all groups were scarified, tibia and femur were weighed, and the blood was collected for analysis of the lipid profile, glucose, and antioxidants catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH). The ST group showed greater femur weight (0.82 ± 0.18 g) and RALOX + ST had greater tibia weight (0.61± 0.17 g) than CONTROL with femur weight of 0.65 ± 0.08 g and tibia of 0.49 ± 0.08 g with no differences between treatments (p > 0.05). ST group showed significantly higher catalase (181.7 ± 15.4 µM g-1) compared to the other groups. In contrast, the GSH value was lower in ST group (89.2 ± 8.1 µM g-1) compared to RALOX (175.9 ± 17.1 µM g-1) and RALOX + ST (162.8 ± 12.1 µM g-1), but the values of these two groups did not differ from CONTROL(115.3 ± 21.1 µM g-1). Total cholesterol did not differ between groups (p > 0.05), but exercise alone(54.3 ± 2.5 mg dL-1) or with RALOX (53.0 ± 1.5 mg dL-1) resulted in higher HDL cholesterol than CONTROL (45.5 ± 2.5 mg dL-1). Only RALOX+ST presented lower glucose (140.3 ± 9.7 mg dL-1) values than CONTROL (201.7 ± 30.6 mg dL-1). In conclusion, ST promotes similar benefits on bone and metabolic parameters compared to pharmacological treatment in ovariectomized rats.(AU)

Protocolo de sedação visando a castração química em cães / Sedation protocol aiming to chemical castration in dogs

A castração química é utilizada para castrar cães machos a um custo mais baixo que o procedimento cirúrgico, que é o método mais aplicado para castrar cães e gatos. A castração química é um procedimento mais simples que a castração cirúrgica e pode ser realizada a nível ambulatorial, sem necessidade de anestesia geral. Entretanto, devido ao estresse pela manipulação e ao desconforto produzido pela injeção de uma substância no interior dos testículos, faz-se necessária uma sedação para que a castração química seja efetuada de um modo que proporcione o bem-estar do animal. Assim, este artigo tem como objetivo propor um protocolo inovador para sedação de cães submetidos à castração química. Para isso, foram utilizados 12 cães submetidos à administração de xilazina em subdose no acuponto yin tang. Após o estabelecimento da sedação, os cães foram castrados quimicamente. O protocolo proposto permitiu que a castração química fosse realizada com conforto para o paciente e para a equipe de médicos veterinários. Desta forma, concluiu-se que o protocolo de sedação é seguro e pode ser empregado em cães para procedimentos não invasivos, como exames, coleta de material e outros processos ou técnicas semelhantes.

Chemical castration is used to spay male dogs at a lower cost than the surgical procedure, which is the most applied method to spay dogs and cats. Chemical castration is a simpler procedure than surgical castration and can be performed on an outpatient basis, without the need for general anesthesia. However, due to the stress caused by manipulation and the discomfort produced by the injection of a substance into the testicles, sedation is necessary so that chemical castration is to be carried out in a way that provides the animal's welfare. Thus, this article aims to propose an innovative protocol for sedation of dogs submitted to chemical castration. For this purpose, twelve dogs submitted to the administration of xylazine in subdosis in the yin-tang acupoint were used. After the establishment of sedation, the dogs were chemically neutered. The proposed protocol allowed chemical castration to be performed with comfort for the patient and the team of veterinarians. Therefore, it is concluded that the sedation protocol is safe and can be used in dogs for non-invasive procedures such as exams, material collection, and other similar processes or techniques.

Biochemical profile of castrated and uncastrated male goats supplemented with vitamin E or not / Perfil bioquímico de caprinos machos castrados e não castrados suplementados ou não com vitamina E

The objective of this study was to evaluate the biochemical parameters of goats submitted to castration or not and receiving supplementation with vitamin E or not. A total of 24 goats, uncastrated (12 experimental units) and castrated males (12 experimental units), with average body weight weighing 17.6 kg ± 2.67 kg, were distributed in a completely randomized design in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement, with two animal conditions (castrated and uncastrated male) and vitamin E supplementation (with and without supplementation), with six replications. There was an effect of treatments (P<0.05) over time for all studied variables. There was an effect of vitamin supplementation (P<0.05) for phosphorus, iron, protein, glucose, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT). Vitamin supplementation increased glucose, creatinine and GTT levels over time, and reduced levels of phosphorus, iron, protein, albumin, AST and ALP. We conclude that vitamin E influenced the biochemical parameters studied, but castration did not change the biochemical profile of goats, regardless of whether they were supplemented with vitamin E or not.

Objetivou-se avaliar os parâmetros bioquímicos de caprinos submetidos ou não a castração e recebendo ou não suplementação com vitamina E. Um total de 24 caprinos, machos não castrados (12 unidades experimentais) e machos castrados (12 unidades experimentais), com peso corporal médio de 17,6 kg ± 2,67 kg, foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado em arranjo fatorial 2 x 2, sendo duas condições animais (macho castrado e não castrado) e suplementação com vitamina E (com e sem suplementação), com seis repetições. Houve efeito dos tratamentos (P<0,05) ao longo do tempo para todas as variáveis estudadas. Houve efeito da suplementação vitamínica (P<0,05) para fósforo, ferro, proteína, glicose, aspartato aminotransferase (AST), alanina aminotransferase (ALP) e gama-glutamiltransferase (GGT). A suplementação vitamínica elevou os níveis de glicose, creatinina e GTT ao longo do tempo, e reduziu os níveis de fósforo, ferro, proteína, albumina, AST e ALP. Concluímos que a vitamina E influenciou nos parâmetros bioquímicos estudados, porém a castração não alterou o perfil bioquímico de caprinos, independentemente de estarem suplementados ou não com a vitamina E.

New alternatives for improving and assessing the color of dark­cutting beef ­ a review

Myoglobin (Mb) is a sarcoplasmic heme protein present in muscle cells, which acts as a short­term oxygen (O2) reserve in the muscle tissue. After slaughtering and exsanguination, Mb is the major pigment that provides the red color in meat. The concentration of Mb together with its redox state are two pivotal factors that determine meat color. The elevated pH of dark­cutting beef can affect both physical and biochemical properties resulting in decreased oxygenation. The darkening observed in high ultimate pH (pHu) beef concerns meat processors as color is the initial attribute that impacts on the purchase. Thus, any atypical meat color (i.e., loss of brightness) reduces consumer interest in the product. Several studies have demonstrated that immunological castration is effective in preventing both aggressive behavior and undesirable dark­cutting of bull meat. However, little information is available on the effects of processing techniques that limit the oxidation of ferrous iron (Fe2+), Mb or promote metmyoglobin (MMb) reduction in dark­cutting beef. Because of the importance of color to fresh beef marketability, this review aimed at overviewing the significance of pHu in beef color and color stability and to discuss new alternatives for improving and assessing the beef color of dark­cutting beef, especially in Nellore bulls and their crossbreds, which are widely used in beef cattle production in Brazil.(AU)

Immunocastration on performance and meat quality of Bos indicus (Nellore) cattle under different nutritional systems

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of immunocastration on the animal growth, carcass traits, and meat quality of Nellore cattle receiving or not Ionophore supplementation at pasture or pasture with concentrate (semi-feedlot). The first experiment (Pasture) was carried out during the rainy season, while the second (supplemented = Semi-feedlot) was conducted during the dry season. In each assessment, 60 males were allocated into three treatments, in a completely randomized design: non-castrated, immunocastrated (anti-gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine), and immunocastrated animals receiving ionophore. The highly energetic supplemented diet was prepared using 85 % corn and 10 % soybean meal at 1 % body weight, while the ionophore was provided with salt containing 1,650 mg kg−1 of lasalocid. After slaughter, the carcasses were graded, and Longissimus thoracis et lumborum samples were collected for meat quality analysis. The non-castrated animals exhibited a more significant final body weight and hot carcass weight than those immunocastrated regardless of ionophore supplementation (p < 0.05). The carcasses of non-castrated animals had less fat cover and marbling than castrated animals. A high incidence of dark cutting beef was verified in non-castrated animals. The immunocastrated cattle produced tenderer beef, mainly at pasture rearing. In conclusion, regardless of production system or ionophore supplementation, immunocastration was an adequate choice to generate high-quality meat, since it increased marbling and improved beef tenderness. However, limitations regarding animal growth should be estimated.

Immunocastration on performance and meat quality of Bos indicus (Nellore) cattle under different nutritional systems

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of immunocastration on the animal growth, carcass traits, and meat quality of Nellore cattle receiving or not Ionophore supplementation at pasture or pasture with concentrate (semi-feedlot). The first experiment (Pasture) was carried out during the rainy season, while the second (supplemented = Semi-feedlot) was conducted during the dry season. In each assessment, 60 males were allocated into three treatments, in a completely randomized design: non-castrated, immunocastrated (anti-gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine), and immunocastrated animals receiving ionophore. The highly energetic supplemented diet was prepared using 85 % corn and 10 % soybean meal at 1 % body weight, while the ionophore was provided with salt containing 1,650 mg kg−1 of lasalocid. After slaughter, the carcasses were graded, and Longissimus thoracis et lumborum samples were collected for meat quality analysis. The non-castrated animals exhibited a more significant final body weight and hot carcass weight than those immunocastrated regardless of ionophore supplementation (p < 0.05). The carcasses of non-castrated animals had less fat cover and marbling than castrated animals. A high incidence of dark cutting beef was verified in non-castrated animals. The immunocastrated cattle produced tenderer beef, mainly at pasture rearing. In conclusion, regardless of production system or ionophore supplementation, immunocastration was an adequate choice to generate high-quality meat, since it increased marbling and improved beef tenderness. However, limitations regarding animal growth should be estimated.(AU)

O que há de novo em castração química de animais machos? / What's new in chemical castration of male animals?

A castração é um dos procedimentos mais realizados na prática clínica veterinária. A castração química é um método não invasivo, que leva à redução total ou parcial da produção de espermatozoides, causando disfunção reprodutiva. Tal procedimento apresenta vantagens como baixo custo, simplicidade e possibilidade de esterilização de um grande número de animais. Neste artigo realiza-se uma revisão atual (a partir de 2016) sobre castração química em animais como uma alternativa viável para castrar machos. Foram resgatados artigos que descrevem castração química em diversas espécies. A técnica de castração química na maioria das vezes é realizada com anestesia local e inclui a introdução de substâncias no interior dos testículos com a utilização de seringas e agulhas. Várias substâncias podem ser utilizadas para realizar castração química em animais. As mais empregadas na prática são cloreto de cálcio e cloreto de sódio hipertônico. A principal desvantagem da castração química se relaciona à dor produzida pela injeção de uma substância no interior do testículo. Ocorre edema e processo inflamatório, mas são transitórios. Concluiu-se que a castração química é uma técnica viável para ser utilizada em animais machos. Pode ser empregada em animais de produção, especialmente para os pequenos produtores. Além disso, pode ser útil no controle populacional de cães e gatos. São necessários mais estudos com fármacos, doses e espécies diferentes, inclusive estudos a longo prazo que devem enfocar especialmente a reversibilidade do método, a carcinogênese e as alterações comportamentais.

Castration is one of the most performed procedures in veterinary clinical practice. Chemical castration is a noninvasive method, which leads to a total or partial reduction in the production of sperm, causing reproductive dysfunction. Such a procedure has advantages such as low cost, simplicity and the possibility of sterilizing many animals. In this paper, a current review (from 2016) on chemical castration in animals as a viable alternative to castrate males is carried out. Papers that describe chemical castration in several species were retrieved. The chemical castration technique is most often performed with local anesthesia and includes the introduction of substances into the testicles with the use of syringes and needles. Various substances can be used to perform chemical castration in animals. The most used in practice are calcium chloride and hypertonic sodium chloride. The main disadvantage of chemical castration is related to the pain produced by the injection of a substance inside the testicle. Edema and inflammation occur, but they are transient. It was concluded that chemical castration is a viable technique to be used in male animals. It can be used in farm animals, especially for small producers. Besides that, it can be useful in the population control of dogs and cats. Further studies with different drugs, doses and species are needed, including long-term studies that should focus especially on the reversibility of the method, carcinogenesis and behavioral changes.

Evaluation of piglet birth weight on growth performance and qualitative and quantitative characteristics of carcasses of immunocastrated pigs

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of birth weight on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of immunocastrated male pigs. Seventy-two boars were assigned to three birth weight categories (BiW): light BiW pigs (LP: 0.98±0.083 kg BW; n = 24), normal BiW pigs (NP: 1.42±0.067 kg BW; n = 24), and heavy BiW pigs (HP: 1.85±0.096 kg BW; n = 24). For treatment design, we considered a weight range of two standard deviations (SD) in relation to the average population body weight (from 0.785 to 2.155 kg BW−1 ). The animals were housed in six pens with 12 animals per pen, with ad libitum access to water and feed throughout the study. In the growing and finishing phases, pigs were immunocastrated with two doses of vaccine at 112 and 161 days of age. The three BiW categories were different up to departure from the nursery (70 days). After this period, there was no difference between NP and HP in terms of BiW. Measurements showed that a low BiW reduced the loin eye area (9.4%), longissimus thoracis muscle depth (7.6%), and meat:fat ratio (21.6%). Backfat thickness (21.5%) and fat area (11.8%) were higher in LP as compared with the NP and HP categories. Light BiW pigs presented a lower weight steak (7.0%) and belly + rib (8.6%) compared with NP and HP, but did not differ within the LP group. Light BiW pigs required a greater lodging time (14 days), generating higher accumulated feed intake to reach the same slaughter BiW as the other categories. Growth performance and carcass characteristics are influenced by the birth weight (BiW) category. Light BiW pigs require more time and feed intake to reach the same slaughter weight. Birth weight has positive effects on meat quality and weight of commercial cuts.

Reproductive parameters of lambs immunocastrated with anti-GnRH vaccine

The objective of this study was to evaluate the testicular biometric, seminal, and plasma testosterone levels in lambs subjected to an anti-GnRH vaccine as a method of castration. Thirty entire, crossbred Santa Inês male lambs were randomly distributed into three treatment (T): T1 was the control group, with the administration of 1 mL of saline solution subcutaneously (SC); 1.0 and 0.5 mL of an anti-GnRH vaccine were administered SC in T2 and T3, respectively. Testicular biometric variables, physical and morphological variables of semen, and plasma testosterone concentrations were evaluated. At D60, there was a reduction in testicular length, width, thickness, and scrotal circumference of the immunocastrated animals regardless of the vaccine dose used (P < 0.05). A reduction in semen physical variables at both dosages (P < 0.05) was observed, with azoospermia, in 80% and 70% of animals in the T2 and T3 groups, respectively. At D60, the immunocastrated animals also showed an increase in spermatozoa defects (P < 0.05), whereas plasma testosterone concentration decreased (P < 0.05). Immunocastration of lambs using the Bopriva vaccine at doses of 1.0 and 0.5 mL is efficient in inducing azoospermia in up to 80% of animals, although two doses in a 30-day interval are necessary for it to be an effective and safe method. Efficacy was demonstrated through a reduction in serum testosterone levels, testicular biometry, and seminal fluid analysis. Considering the efficacy of both doses in this study, we recommend using the lower dose (0.5 mL), which will allow for a 50% reduction in vaccine costs.(AU)

Effects of combining immunocastration and ß-adrenergic agonists on the blood metabolites and their correlations with performance and carcass traits of finished Nellore cattle

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of combining immunocastration and ß-adrenergic agonists (ß-AA) on blood metabolites and their correlations with performance and carcass traits of Nellore cattle. Ninety-six Nellore males were distributed in a randomized block design with a 2×3 factorial arrangement. The factors were two sexual conditions (immunocastrated and non-castrated), and three diets (control, with no inclusion of ß-AA; RH, with 300 mg of ractopamine hydrochloride/d; and ZH, with 80 mg of zilpaterol hydrochloride/animal/d). The trial was conducted during 100 d, during which animals were fed ZH and RH for the last 30 and 33 d, respectively. Blood metabolites related to lipid and protein metabolism were assessed at the baseline (0 d of ß-AA supplementation) and after 13 and 30 d of ß-AA supplementation. No effect of sexual condition × ß-AA supplementation × time on feed interaction was observed. Combining immunocastration with ß-AA supplementation modified cholesterol and non-esterified fatty acids concentrations without affecting protein metabolism. Immunocastration enhances lipogenesis and reduces skeletal muscle accretion by increasing high-density lipoprotein and triglycerides concentrations and decreasing creatinine and creatine kinase concentrations, respectively. Zilpaterol hydrochloride enhances skeletal muscle accretion by decreasing urea and total protein concentrations and increases creatinine and creatine kinase concentrations without modifying lipid metabolism.(AU)

Efficacy of Azadirachta indica (Neem) leaf extract and hypertonic saline solution as intratesticular chemical sterilizing agents in dogs / Eficácia do extrato de folha de Azadirachta indica (Neem) e solução salina hipertônica como agente químico esterilizante intratesticular em cães

Castration refers to induced sterility via physical, chemical, or hormonal methods. Chemical castration is an efficient and reliable technique in contrast to other sterilization procedures as it is less painful to physical methods and cost­effective to hormonal methods. Azadirachta indica (neem), is a charismatic plant as its leaves possess anti­inflammatory, anti­microbial, and anti­androgenic chattels. To abate the escalating human population in South Asia, neem oil and neem leaf extract have been effectively used as a contraceptive agent. The key determinant of the current study was to evaluate Neem as a chemical sterilizing agent, (either necrotic or apoptotic), in dogs injected intratesticular in comparison to a hypertonic saline solution. Pre­ and post­injection testicular width size and blood samples for serum testosterone levels were collected on alternative days. Results disclosed substantial changes in testicular width size, histopathological profile, and serum testosterone level. A non­significant (P > 0.05) pre­injection testicular width readings in contrast to a significant increase (P < 0.05) three days post­injection was noted in all the competitive groups. The mean values recorded for testicular width size at the end of the trial study via neem leaf extract, 30% HSS and, control groups were 27.7362 ± 2.3315mm, 30.9594 ± 4.6861mm, and 24.5023 ± 2.5387mm, respectively. A declining trend, regarding serum testosterone level being statistically significant (P < 0.05) was recorded in treated groups (A, B) in contrast to the control group (C) as the values were 1.5357 ± 0.7819ng, 1.2669 ± 0.9095ng, and 2.4517 ± 0.1827ng in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Histopathological findings advocated the presence of apoptotic bodies in the neem treated group whereas the presence of degenerated interstitial cells, necrosed seminiferous tubules, damaged germinal epithelium, and ceased spermatogenesis was also studied in both competitive groups. Thus, the apoptotic effect and anti­inflammatory property of neem leaf extract resulted in less painful castration and verified Azadirachta indica as a better substitute for chemical castration in contrast to hypertonic saline solution.(AU)

A castração consiste na indução da esterilidade por meio físico, químico ou hormonal. A castração química é uma técnica eficiente e confiável, em contraste com outros procedimentos de esterilização, pois é menos dolorosa para os métodos físicos e econômicos para os métodos hormonais. Azadirachta indica (neem), é uma planta carismática, pois possui folhas anti­inflamatórias, antimicrobianas e antiandrogênicas. Para diminuir a crescente população humana no sul da Ásia, o óleo de nim e o extrato de folhas de nim têm sido efetivamente usados como agente contraceptivo. O principal determinante deste estudo atual foi avaliar o Neem como um agente esterilizante químico (necrótico ou apoptótico) em cães injetados intratesticularmente em comparação com uma solução salina hipertônica. O tamanho da largura testicular pré e pós­injeção e as amostras de sangue para os níveis séricos de testosterona foram colhidas em dias alternados. Os resultados obtidos revelaram alterações substanciais no tamanho da largura testicular, perfil histopatológico e nível sérico de testosterona. Observou­se uma leitura não significativa (P> 0,05) da largura testicular da pré­injeção, em contraste com um aumento significativo (P <0,05) três dias após a injeção em todos os grupos competitivos.Os valores médios registrados para o tamanho da largura testicular no final do estudo via extrato de folhas de nim,HSS a 30% e grupos controle foram 27,7362 ± 2,3315 mm, 30,9594 ± 4,6861 mm e 24,5023 ± 2,5387 mm, respectivamente.Uma tendência decrescente, com relação ao nível sérico de testosterona sendo estatisticamente significante (P <0,05), foi registrada nos grupos tratados (A, B), em contraste com o grupo controle (C), pois os valores eram 1,5357 ± 0,7819ng, 1,2669 ± 0,9095ng e 2,4517 ± 0,1827ng nos grupos A, B e C, respectivamente. Os achados histopatológicos advogaram a presença de corpos apoptóticos no grupo tratado com nim, enquanto a presença de células intersticiais degeneradas, túbulos seminíferos necrosados, epitélio germinativo danificado e espermatogênese interrompida também foi estudada nos dois grupos competitivos. Assim, o efeito apoptótico e a propriedade anti­inflamatória do extrato de folhas de nim resultaram em uma castração menos dolorosa e confirmaram que a Azadirachta indica foi um melhor substituto para a castração química do que a solução salina hipertônica.(AU)

Efficacy of Azadirachta indica (Neem) leaf extract and hypertonic saline solution as intratesticular chemical sterilizing agents in dogs / Eficácia do extrato de folha de Azadirachta indica (Neem) e solução salina hipertônica como agente químico esterilizante intratesticular em cães

Castration refers to induced sterility via physical, chemical, or hormonal methods. Chemical castration is an efficient and reliable technique in contrast to other sterilization procedures as it is less painful to physical methods and cost­effective to hormonal methods. Azadirachta indica (neem), is a charismatic plant as its leaves possess anti­inflammatory, anti­microbial, and anti­androgenic chattels. To abate the escalating human population in South Asia, neem oil and neem leaf extract have been effectively used as a contraceptive agent. The key determinant of the current study was to evaluate Neem as a chemical sterilizing agent, (either necrotic or apoptotic), in dogs injected intratesticular in comparison to a hypertonic saline solution. Pre­ and post­injection testicular width size and blood samples for serum testosterone levels were collected on alternative days. Results disclosed substantial changes in testicular width size, histopathological profile, and serum testosterone level. A non­significant (P > 0.05) pre­injection testicular width readings in contrast to a significant increase (P < 0.05) three days post­injection was noted in all the competitive groups. The mean values recorded for testicular width size at the end of the trial study via neem leaf extract, 30% HSS and, control groups were 27.7362 ± 2.3315mm, 30.9594 ± 4.6861mm, and 24.5023 ± 2.5387mm, respectively. A declining trend, regarding serum testosterone level being statistically significant (P < 0.05) was recorded in treated groups (A, B) in contrast to the control group (C) as the values were 1.5357 ± 0.7819ng, 1.2669 ± 0.9095ng, and 2.4517 ± 0.1827ng in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Histopathological findings advocated the presence of apoptotic bodies in the neem treated group whereas the presence of degenerated interstitial cells, necrosed seminiferous tubules, damaged germinal epithelium, and ceased spermatogenesis was also studied in both competitive groups. Thus, the apoptotic effect and anti­inflammatory property of neem leaf extract resulted in less painful castration and verified Azadirachta indica as a better substitute for chemical castration in contrast to hypertonic saline solution.(AU)

A castração consiste na indução da esterilidade por meio físico, químico ou hormonal. A castração química é uma técnica eficiente e confiável, em contraste com outros procedimentos de esterilização, pois é menos dolorosa para os métodos físicos e econômicos para os métodos hormonais. Azadirachta indica (neem), é uma planta carismática, pois possui folhas anti­inflamatórias, antimicrobianas e antiandrogênicas. Para diminuir a crescente população humana no sul da Ásia, o óleo de nim e o extrato de folhas de nim têm sido efetivamente usados como agente contraceptivo. O principal determinante deste estudo atual foi avaliar o Neem como um agente esterilizante químico (necrótico ou apoptótico) em cães injetados intratesticularmente em comparação com uma solução salina hipertônica. O tamanho da largura testicular pré e pós­injeção e as amostras de sangue para os níveis séricos de testosterona foram colhidas em dias alternados. Os resultados obtidos revelaram alterações substanciais no tamanho da largura testicular, perfil histopatológico e nível sérico de testosterona. Observou­se uma leitura não significativa (P> 0,05) da largura testicular da pré­injeção, em contraste com um aumento significativo (P <0,05) três dias após a injeção em todos os grupos competitivos.Os valores médios registrados para o tamanho da largura testicular no final do estudo via extrato de folhas de nim,HSS a 30% e grupos controle foram 27,7362 ± 2,3315 mm, 30,9594 ± 4,6861 mm e 24,5023 ± 2,5387 mm, respectivamente.Uma tendência decrescente, com relação ao nível sérico de testosterona sendo estatisticamente significante (P <0,05), foi registrada nos grupos tratados (A, B), em contraste com o grupo controle (C), pois os valores eram 1,5357 ± 0,7819ng, 1,2669 ± 0,9095ng e 2,4517 ± 0,1827ng nos grupos A, B e C, respectivamente. Os achados histopatológicos advogaram a presença de corpos apoptóticos no grupo tratado com nim, enquanto a presença de células intersticiais degeneradas, túbulos seminíferos necrosados, epitélio germinativo danificado e espermatogênese interrompida também foi estudada nos dois grupos competitivos. Assim, o efeito apoptótico e a propriedade anti­inflamatória do extrato de folhas de nim resultaram em uma castração menos dolorosa e confirmaram que a Azadirachta indica foi um melhor substituto para a castração química do que a solução salina hipertônica.(AU)

Influência do tramadol associado à levobupicavaína epidural sobre a taxa de propofol e variáveis fisiológicas, em cadelas submetidas à mastectomia e à ovário-histerectomia / [Influence of tramadol combined with epidural levobupicavaine, on the propofol infusion rate and physiological variables, in female dogs undergoing mastectomy and ovariohysterectomy]

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos fisiológicos e sobre o consumo do propofol, relativos à anestesia epidural com levobupivacaína isolada ou associada a diferentes doses de tramadol. Para tal, 18 cadelas foram pré-tratadas com acepromazina, utilizando-se propofol para indução e manutenção anestésicas. Conforme o protocolo epidural instituído, formaram-se três grupos (n=6) tratados com levobupivacaína isolada (1,5mg/kg) (GL) ou acrescida de 2mg/kg (GLT2) ou 4mg/kg (GLT4) de tramadol, respectivamente. As fêmeas foram submetidas à mastectomia e à ovário-histerectomia (OH), registrando-se as variáveis fisiológicas nos períodos pré (TB e T0) e transanestésicos (T10 a T70), bem como a taxa mínima de propofol necessária. Houve redução da FC para o GL e o GLT4 em relação ao GLT2 (T30 a T70), detectando-se, no GL, redução da PAS e da PAD em relação ao TB. Maiores taxas de infusão do propofol foram necessárias para o GL (0,70±0,12mg/kg/min) em relação ao GLT2 (0,50±0,19mg/kg/min) e ao GLT4 (0,50±0,19mg/kg/min). Conclui-se que o tramadol potencializou o propofol, ao ofertar analgesia, independentemente da dose administrada. Todos os protocolos testados foram seguros e eficazes em cadelas submetidas à mastectomia e à OH.(AU)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the physiological and on propofol-sparing effects related to epidural anesthesia with levobupivacaine alone or combined with different doses of tramadol. For this purpose, 18 female dogs were pretreated with acepromazine, using propofol for induction and maintenance of anesthesia. Based on a previously established epidural (L7-S1) protocol, three groups (n=6) were treated with either levobupivacaine alone (1.5mg.k-1) (GL) or in association with to 2mg.kg-1 (GLT2) or 4mg.kg-1 (GLT4) of tramadol, respectively. These dogs were all undergoing mastectomy and ovariohysterectomy (OH). The physiological data were registered in the pre (TB and T0) and trans-anesthetic periods (T10 - T70), as well as the consumption of propofol. There was a reduction in the HR for GL and GLT4 in relation to GLT2 (T30 - T70) and reductions in SAP and DAP in relation to TB in the GL group. Higher continuous infusion rate of propofol were required for GL (0.70±0.12mg.kg-1.min-1) relative to GLT2 (0.50±0.19mg.kg-1.min-1) and GLT4 (0.50±0.19mg.kg-1.min-1). It was concluded that tramadol potentiated propofol, offering analgesia independently of its administered dose. All protocols tested were safe and effective in female dogs undergoing mastectomy and OH.(AU)

Evaluation of post-operative pain and stress in dogs after elective ovariohysterectomy under hospitalization / Avaliação da dor e estresse pós-operatórios em cadelas mantidas em ambiente hospitalar submetidas à ovariohisterectomia eletiva

Surgical procedures in pet animals are usually associated with some degree of stress and pain. Hospitalization is one stress-triggering factor. The present study aimed to evaluate the degree of stress and pain during hospitalization of female dogs submitted to elective ovariohysterectomy (OVH) and to investigate the influence of hospitalization on the stress of these animals. Fifteen young adult crossbreed female dogs were divided into two groups: eight animals without surgery (Group 1 - control) and seven animals submitted to surgery (Group 2 - OVH). Pain and stress were evaluated. Visual analogue scale (VAS), simple descriptive pain scale (SDS) and modified Glasgow pain scale (MGPS) were used. Serum cortisol (µg/dL) and glucose (mg/dl) were also measured. No statistical difference was observed for cortisol (µg/dL) between the two groups. Despite the absence of statistical difference between groups and times, mean serum cortisol (µg/dL) values exceeded the normal values for the canine species at various times evaluated. Hyperglycemia was only observed at T4 in the OVH group. It was concluded that the hospitalization of animals was more relevant in the establishment of stress than the surgical procedure and associated pain. The influence of stress was a relevant factor in the results of assessments carried out using the MGPS.(AU)

Os procedimentos cirúrgicos em animais de companhia são geralmente associados a algum grau de dor e estresse e a hospitalização é um dos fatores que predispõem ao estresse. O presente estudo teve o objetivo de avaliar o grau de estresse e dor durante a internação de cadelas submetidas à ovariohisterectomia eletiva (OVH) e investigar a influência da hospitalização sobre o estresse nestes animais. Quinze cadelas adultas jovens e mestiças foram divididas em dois grupos: oito animais não submetidos à cirurgia (Grupo 1 - controle) e sete animais submetidos à OVH (Grupo 2 - OVH). Dor e estresse foram avaliados. Foram utilizadas a escala visual analógica (EVA), escala descritiva simples (EDS) e escala de dor de Glasgow modificada (EDGM). A glicose (mg/dL) e o cortisol (µg/dL) séricos foram mensurados. Não houve diferença estatística do cortisol (µg/dL) entre os grupos. Entretanto, os valores médios de cortisol (µg/dL) excederam àqueles considerados normais para a espécie canina em vários períodos avaliados. A hiperglicemia foi observada em T4 no grupo OVH. Concluiu-se que a hospitalização dos animais foi mais relevante na ocorrência do estresse do que o procedimento cirúrgico e a dor associada a ele. Desta forma, a influência do estresse foi um fator relevante nos resultados das avaliações realizadas com a escala de dor de Glasgow modificada.(AU)

Metamizol and scopolamine for conventional or two-port laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy in dogs

Background: Ovariohysterectomy (OVH) is one of the most applied techniques in Veterinary Medicine. Despite some analgesic protocols being used after this procedure in order to control post operatory pain, there is a lack of knowledge of the efficacy after conventional and two port laparoscopic-assisted techniques in dog female. Although the combined formulation of metamizol and scopolamine is used, there is no knowledge about the efficacy and collateral effects in a 6 h regimen after OVH. The aim of this research was to evaluate the efficacy of metamizol and scopolamine to analgesia after two techniques of OVH in dog female. Materials, Methods & Results: Fifteen adults and healthy dog female were submitted to OVH, being eight to the conventional procedure and seven to video assisted technic with two ports. The patients received a combination of metamizol and scopolamine, 6-6 h during 48 h and were evaluated before surgery, 60 min after extubation and on 1 h interval during the f irst 8 h, and at 12, 18, 24, 36, 48 and 72 h after surgery. For this, the University of Melbourne Pain Scale (UMPS) and the short-form of the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale (CMPS-SF) were applied by three evaluators blinded to surgical technic. Glucoses measurement was realized at 1, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h after surgery. Analgesic rescue was not necessary for any animal. Punctuation of UMPS in GC decreases at 8 h and at 5 h, and to GV at 12 and 24 h. Difference between groups happened at 3 h with larger average to GV; at 48 h the punctuation in GC was lager. Considering CMPS-SF to CG, higher average was observed at 1 h and decreased at 2, 3, 8 and 18. At GV highest average points was verified at 1, 2 and 3 h and decreased at 5, 8 and 18 h. Correlation was strong and positive between each two evaluators. Animals of both groups had increased average...

Evaluation of post-operative pain and stress in dogs after elective ovariohysterectomy under hospitalization / Avaliação da dor e estresse pós-operatórios em cadelas mantidas em ambiente hospitalar submetidas à ovariohisterectomia eletiva

Surgical procedures in pet animals are usually associated with some degree of stress and pain. Hospitalization is one stress-triggering factor. The present study aimed to evaluate the degree of stress and pain during hospitalization of female dogs submitted to elective ovariohysterectomy (OVH) and to investigate the influence of hospitalization on the stress of these animals. Fifteen young adult crossbreed female dogs were divided into two groups: eight animals without surgery (Group 1 - control) and seven animals submitted to surgery (Group 2 - OVH). Pain and stress were evaluated. Visual analogue scale (VAS), simple descriptive pain scale (SDS) and modified Glasgow pain scale (MGPS) were used. Serum cortisol (µg/dL) and glucose (mg/dl) were also measured. No statistical difference was observed for cortisol (µg/dL) between the two groups. Despite the absence of statistical difference between groups and times, mean serum cortisol (µg/dL) values exceeded the normal values for the canine species at various times evaluated. Hyperglycemia was only observed at T4 in the OVH group. It was concluded that the hospitalization of animals was more relevant in the establishment of stress than the surgical procedure and associated pain. The influence of stress was a relevant factor in the results of assessments carried out using the MGPS.(AU)

Os procedimentos cirúrgicos em animais de companhia são geralmente associados a algum grau de dor e estresse e a hospitalização é um dos fatores que predispõem ao estresse. O presente estudo teve o objetivo de avaliar o grau de estresse e dor durante a internação de cadelas submetidas à ovariohisterectomia eletiva (OVH) e investigar a influência da hospitalização sobre o estresse nestes animais. Quinze cadelas adultas jovens e mestiças foram divididas em dois grupos: oito animais não submetidos à cirurgia (Grupo 1 - controle) e sete animais submetidos à OVH (Grupo 2 - OVH). Dor e estresse foram avaliados. Foram utilizadas a escala visual analógica (EVA), escala descritiva simples (EDS) e escala de dor de Glasgow modificada (EDGM). A glicose (mg/dL) e o cortisol (µg/dL) séricos foram mensurados. Não houve diferença estatística do cortisol (µg/dL) entre os grupos. Entretanto, os valores médios de cortisol (µg/dL) excederam àqueles considerados normais para a espécie canina em vários períodos avaliados. A hiperglicemia foi observada em T4 no grupo OVH. Concluiu-se que a hospitalização dos animais foi mais relevante na ocorrência do estresse do que o procedimento cirúrgico e a dor associada a ele. Desta forma, a influência do estresse foi um fator relevante nos resultados das avaliações realizadas com a escala de dor de Glasgow modificada.(AU)

Characterization of carcasses of Zebu cattle raised in a semiarid region according to sex

The objective was to group and characterize Zebu cattle carcasses according to sex. Data from 15,002 carcasses of cattle raised in the semiarid region of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, were used. The carcass characteristics analyzed were weight, conformation, subcutaneous fat, number of permanent incisor teeth (PIT), and sex (uncastrated males, castrated males, females (up to six PIT), and cows (eight PIT)). Cluster analysis was applied to establish the relationship between sex and carcass characteristics. Four clusters were identified according to sex, and 60% of the total variance in the data set is explained by the clusters. Uncastrated males appear together in a single group (Cluster 1), which demonstrates homogeneity in their carcass characteristics. The heaviest group was Cluster 1. The castrated males appear in three groups, some of them (33.58%) grouped with the majority of cows (92.85%), which indicates that these carcasses did not achieve the quality required by the industry. Another part of the castrated males (41.84%) presented characteristics required by the industry. The females appear in all clusters. Except for uncastrated males and cows, the effect of sex (castrated males and females) on the carcass characteristics of Zebu cattle from the semiarid region of the Minas Gerais does not assure similar characteristics. Therefore, the improvement of carcass quality, using castration as the central grading criterion, should be reviewed not to overemphasize this item.(AU)

Características de carcaça e carne de novilhos Aberdeen Angus submetidos à castração cirúrgica ou imunológica / Carcass characteristics and meat of Aberdeen Angus steers submitted to surgical or immunological castration

Objetivou-se avaliar as características de carcaça e carne de novilhos Aberdeen Angus castrados cirurgicamente em duas idades ou imunocastrados com dois protocolos. Foram utilizados 48 bezerros, monitorados a partir do nascimento e desmamados, com idade e peso médio inicial de seis meses e de 160±16,54kg, respectivamente. Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente nos seguintes tratamentos: castração cirúrgica ao nascer; castração cirúrgica ao desmame; imunocastração com três doses da vacina Bopriva® e imunocastração com quatro doses da vacina Bopriva®. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente ao acaso. Novilhos imunocastrados com três doses apresentaram maior quebra ao resfriamento e menor espessura de gordura ajustada para 100kg de carcaça fria que castrados cirurgicamente ao nascer (P<0,05). A imunocastração com três doses proporcionou incremento na participação de músculo, em relação às castrações cirúrgicas, mas reduziu a gordura em relação à castração cirúrgica ao nascimento (P<0,05). A relação músculo:osso foi superior nos imunocastrados com três doses em relação a castrados cirurgicamente no desmame (P<0,05). Apesar de variações na participação tecidual na carcaça, a castração imunológica mostrou-se viável em substituição à castração cirúrgica, não alterando os padrões qualitativos da carne.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the carcass and meat characteristics of Aberdeen Angus steers surgically castrated at two ages or immunocastrated with two protocols. Forty-eight calves we used, monitored from birth and weaned, with age and initial mean weight of six months and 160±16.54kg, respectively. The animals were randomly assigned to the following treatments: surgical castration at birth; surgical castration at weaning; immunocastration with three doses of the Bopriva ® vaccine and immunocastration with four doses of the Bopriva ® vaccine. The experimental design was completely randomized. Immunocastrated steers with three doses had a greater cooling break and lower fat thickness adjusted for 100kg of cold carcass than surgically castrated at birth (P< 0.05). Immunocastration with three doses provided an increase in muscle participation in relation to surgical castration but reduced fat in relation to surgical castration at birth (P< 0.05). The muscle:bone ratio was higher in the immunocastrated with three doses compared to surgically castrated at weaning (P< 0.05). Despite variations in tissue involvement in the carcass, the immunological castration proved to be viable to replace surgical castration, not changing the quality of the meat standards.(AU)

Características de carcaça e carne de novilhos Aberdeen Angus submetidos à castração cirúrgica ou imunológica / Carcass characteristics and meat of Aberdeen Angus steers submitted to surgical or immunological castration

Objetivou-se avaliar as características de carcaça e carne de novilhos Aberdeen Angus castrados cirurgicamente em duas idades ou imunocastrados com dois protocolos. Foram utilizados 48 bezerros, monitorados a partir do nascimento e desmamados, com idade e peso médio inicial de seis meses e de 160±16,54kg, respectivamente. Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente nos seguintes tratamentos: castração cirúrgica ao nascer; castração cirúrgica ao desmame; imunocastração com três doses da vacina Bopriva® e imunocastração com quatro doses da vacina Bopriva®. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente ao acaso. Novilhos imunocastrados com três doses apresentaram maior quebra ao resfriamento e menor espessura de gordura ajustada para 100kg de carcaça fria que castrados cirurgicamente ao nascer (P<0,05). A imunocastração com três doses proporcionou incremento na participação de músculo, em relação às castrações cirúrgicas, mas reduziu a gordura em relação à castração cirúrgica ao nascimento (P<0,05). A relação músculo:osso foi superior nos imunocastrados com três doses em relação a castrados cirurgicamente no desmame (P<0,05). Apesar de variações na participação tecidual na carcaça, a castração imunológica mostrou-se viável em substituição à castração cirúrgica, não alterando os padrões qualitativos da carne.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the carcass and meat characteristics of Aberdeen Angus steers surgically castrated at two ages or immunocastrated with two protocols. Forty-eight calves we used, monitored from birth and weaned, with age and initial mean weight of six months and 160±16.54kg, respectively. The animals were randomly assigned to the following treatments: surgical castration at birth; surgical castration at weaning; immunocastration with three doses of the Bopriva ® vaccine and immunocastration with four doses of the Bopriva ® vaccine. The experimental design was completely randomized. Immunocastrated steers with three doses had a greater cooling break and lower fat thickness adjusted for 100kg of cold carcass than surgically castrated at birth (P< 0.05). Immunocastration with three doses provided an increase in muscle participation in relation to surgical castration but reduced fat in relation to surgical castration at birth (P< 0.05). The muscle:bone ratio was higher in the immunocastrated with three doses compared to surgically castrated at weaning (P< 0.05). Despite variations in tissue involvement in the carcass, the immunological castration proved to be viable to replace surgical castration, not changing the quality of the meat standards.(AU)