The waveless model: clinical and research applications of follicular wave suppression in cattle / Modelo waveless: aplicações clínicas e na pesquisa da supressão das ondas foliculares em bovinos

The follicular growth waves are directly linked to the fluctuations in plasma gonadotrophins, which are controlled by the hypothalamic GnRH release pattern. Therefore, if the actions of the GnRH are inhibited or blocked, the final stages of the antral follicle growth are suppressed, resulting in an induced anestrus (a.k.a. waveless model). In the human medicine, GnRH agonists or antagonists are broadly used in the control of ovarian disfunctions, as well as in the preparation of women for assisted reproductive cycles. In cattle, a similar effect can be obtained by active immunization against GnRH. This was shown to be a viable strategy, for example, for the control of chronic cases of cystic ovarian disease in oocyte donors. However, on shall take into account the substantial individual variation on the immune response and, consequently, the lack of control of the duration of the anestrus induced. The waveless model is also very useful as a research model, once it controls the potential interference of the endogenous FSH and LH, improving the sensitivity of essays with exogenous hormones and consequently reducing the required number of replicas within studies.(AU)

O padrão de crescimento folicular em ondas está diretamente associado às flutuações nas concentrações plasmáticas de gonadotrofinas, controladas por sua vez pelo padrão de liberação de GnRH hipotalâmico. Desta forma, a inibição ou bloqueio da ação do GnRH suprime as etapas finais do crescimento folicular, resultando em anestro induzido (também chamado modelo waveless). Na medicina humana, agonistas ou antagonistas de GnRH são utilizados tanto no controle de disfunções ovarianas quanto na preparação de pacientes para procedimentos de reprodução assistida. Em bovinos, este efeito pode ser obtido pela imunização ativa contra GnRH, e mostrou-se estratégia viável, por exemplo, no controle de casos crônicos de doença ovariana cística em doadoras de oócitos. Contudo, é importante considerar a grande variação individual na resposta à imunização e consequente impossibilidade de controlar a duração do anestro induzido. O modelo waveless também é de grande utilidade na pesquisa, uma vez que elimina a potencial interferência do FSH e LH endógenos, aumentando a sensibilidade nos ensaios com hormônios exógenos e consequentemente reduzindo o número de réplicas necessárias nos estudos.(AU)

Range of factors in the reduction of hyperhydricity associated with in vitro shoots of Salvia santolinifolia Bioss / Gama de fatores na redução da hiperidricidade associada a brotos in vitro de Salvia santolinifolia Bioss

Hyperhydricity is a serious physiological disorder and affects In vitro propagation of many plants and as well of Salvia santolinifolia. The donor material to initiate the in vitro culture was the callus taken from the in vitro shoots produced on Murashig and Skoogs (MS) medium at 4.0 mg/l BA. This callus formed numerous hyperhydric shoots on culturing upon the medium of the same composition. The aim was to systematically evaluate the effect of cytokinins (Benzyladnine (BA) and N6-(-2-isopentenyl) adenine (2iP), culture vessels magnitude, medium solidification, source of nitrogen and calcium chloride for the alleviation of hyperhydricity. In the tissue cultures of S. santolinifolia BA and 2iP induced severe hyperhydricity, when other factors i.e. culture vessels magnitude and a suitable concentration of agar, ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), potassium nitrate (KNO3) & calcium chloride (CaCl2.2H2O) were not optimized. After 30 days' culture, we observed 83.82% hyperhydric shoots at increased level (1.5 mg/l 2iP) and 81.59% at decreased levels (1.0 mg/l 2iP). On the other hand, hyperhydricity percentage at decreased (0.4%) and at increased (0.8%) levels of agar were 72.37% and 39.08%, respectively. MS medium modification with NH4NO3 (412 mg/l), KNO3 (475 mg/l) and CaCl2.2H2O (880 mg/l) was found the best medium to reduced hyperhydricity (23.6%).

A hiperidricidade é um distúrbio fisiológico sério e afeta a propagação in vitro de muitas plantas e também da Salvia santolinifolia. O material doador para iniciar a cultura in vitro foi o calo retirado dos brotos in vitro produzidos em meio Murashig e Skoogs (MS) a 4,0 mg / l BA. Esse calo formou numerosos rebentos hiperídricos em cultura no meio da mesma composição. O objetivo foi avaliar sistematicamente o efeito das citocininas (Benziladnina (BA) e N6 - (- 2-isopentenil) adenina (2iP), magnitude dos vasos de cultura, solidificação do meio, fonte de nitrogênio e cloreto de cálcio para o alívio da hiperidricidade. culturas de tecidos de S. santolinifolia BA e 2iP induziram hiperidricidade severa, quando outros fatores, como magnitude dos vasos de cultura e uma concentração adequada de ágar, nitrato de amônio (NH4NO3), nitrato de potássio (KNO3) e cloreto de cálcio (CaCl2.2H2O), não foram otimizados. Após 30 dias de cultura, observamos 83,82% de brotos hiperídricos em níveis aumentados (1,5 mg / l 2iP) e 81,59% em níveis reduzidos (1,0 mg / l 2iP). Por outro lado, a porcentagem de hiperidricidade diminuiu (0,4%) e em níveis aumentados (0,8%) de ágar foram 72,37% e 39,08%, respectivamente. A modificação do meio MS com NH4NO3 (412 mg / l), KNO3 (475 mg / l) e CaCl2.2H2O (880 mg / l) foi encontrada melhor hiperidricidade média a reduzida (23,6%).

Range of factors in the reduction of hyperhydricity associated with in vitro shoots of Salvia santolinifolia Bioss / Gama de fatores na redução da hiperidricidade associada a brotos in vitro de Salvia santolinifolia Bioss

Hyperhydricity is a serious physiological disorder and affects In vitro propagation of many plants and as well of Salvia santolinifolia. The donor material to initiate the in vitro culture was the callus taken from the in vitro shoots produced on Murashig and Skoogs (MS) medium at 4.0 mg/l BA. This callus formed numerous hyperhydric shoots on culturing upon the medium of the same composition. The aim was to systematically evaluate the effect of cytokinins (Benzyladnine (BA) and N6-(-2-isopentenyl) adenine (2iP), culture vessels magnitude, medium solidification, source of nitrogen and calcium chloride for the alleviation of hyperhydricity. In the tissue cultures of S. santolinifolia BA and 2iP induced severe hyperhydricity, when other factors i.e. culture vessels magnitude and a suitable concentration of agar, ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), potassium nitrate (KNO3) & calcium chloride (CaCl2.2H2O) were not optimized. After 30 days' culture, we observed 83.82% hyperhydric shoots at increased level (1.5 mg/l 2iP) and 81.59% at decreased levels (1.0 mg/l 2iP). On the other hand, hyperhydricity percentage at decreased (0.4%) and at increased (0.8%) levels of agar were 72.37% and 39.08%, respectively. MS medium modification with NH4NO3 (412 mg/l), KNO3 (475 mg/l) and CaCl2.2H2O (880 mg/l) was found the best medium to reduced hyperhydricity (23.6%).(AU)

A hiperidricidade é um distúrbio fisiológico sério e afeta a propagação in vitro de muitas plantas e também da Salvia santolinifolia. O material doador para iniciar a cultura in vitro foi o calo retirado dos brotos in vitro produzidos em meio Murashig e Skoogs (MS) a 4,0 mg / l BA. Esse calo formou numerosos rebentos hiperídricos em cultura no meio da mesma composição. O objetivo foi avaliar sistematicamente o efeito das citocininas (Benziladnina (BA) e N6 - (- 2-isopentenil) adenina (2iP), magnitude dos vasos de cultura, solidificação do meio, fonte de nitrogênio e cloreto de cálcio para o alívio da hiperidricidade. culturas de tecidos de S. santolinifolia BA e 2iP induziram hiperidricidade severa, quando outros fatores, como magnitude dos vasos de cultura e uma concentração adequada de ágar, nitrato de amônio (NH4NO3), nitrato de potássio (KNO3) e cloreto de cálcio (CaCl2.2H2O), não foram otimizados. Após 30 dias de cultura, observamos 83,82% de brotos hiperídricos em níveis aumentados (1,5 mg / l 2iP) e 81,59% em níveis reduzidos (1,0 mg / l 2iP). Por outro lado, a porcentagem de hiperidricidade diminuiu (0,4%) e em níveis aumentados (0,8%) de ágar foram 72,37% e 39,08%, respectivamente. A modificação do meio MS com NH4NO3 (412 mg / l), KNO3 (475 mg / l) e CaCl2.2H2O (880 mg / l) foi encontrada melhor hiperidricidade média a reduzida (23,6%).(AU)

Non-Status Epilepticus female rats show seizure-like behaviors in the chronic phase of Pilocarpine experimental model / Ratas sem Status Epilepticus apresentam comportamento do tipo crise epiléptica na fase crônica do modelo experimental da Pilocarpina

Only few studies have focus on animals that received Pilocarpine (Pilo) and did not develop behavioral status epilepticus (SE) and, whether they may become epileptic in the model's chronic phase. Previews works observed mossy fiber sprouting in the hippocampus of Non-SE (NSE) rats, while others observed spontaneous and recurrent seizures (SRS) 6 - 8 months after animals received Pilo. It is known that neuronal excitability is influenced by female hormones, as well as, the occurrence of SE in castrated and non-castrated female rats. However, it is not known whether females that received Pilo and did not show SE, may have SRS. The aim of this work was to investigate whether castrated and non-castrated female rats that did not show behavioral SE after Pilo, will develop SRS in the following one-year. For that, animals received 360 mg/kg of Pilo and were video monitored for 12 months. SE females from castrated and non-castrated groups became epileptic since the first month after drug injection. Epileptic behaviors were identified watching video monitoring recordings in the fast speed. Castrated and Non castrated NSE animals showed behaviors resembling seizures described by Racine Scale stages 1 - 3. Motor alterations showed by NSE groups could be observed only when recordings were analyzed in slow speed. In addition, behavioral manifestations as, rhythmic head movements, sudden head movements, whole body movements and immobility were also observed in both, SE and NSE groups. We concluded that NSE female rats may have become epileptic. Adding to it, slow speed analysis of motor alterations was essential for the observation of NSE findings, which suggests that possibly many motor alterations have been underestimated in epilepsy experimental research.

Poucos são os estudos com foco em animais que receberam Pilocarpina (Pilo) e não desenvolveram status epilepticus (SE) comportamental e, se os mesmos se tornarão epilépticos na fase crônica do modelo. Autores observaram o brotamento das fibras musgosas no hipocampo de ratos Não-SE (NSE), enquanto outros observaram crises espontâneas e recorrentes (CER) 6 - 8 meses após receberam a droga. A excitabilidade neuronal é influenciada pelos hormônios femininos e, da mesma forma, a ocorrência de SE em ratas castradas e não-castradas. Entretanto, não é sabido se as fêmeas que não apresentam SE terão CER. O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar se fêmeas castradas e não castradas que não tiveram SE comportamental após a injeção de Pilo desenvolverão CER dentro de um ano. Para isto, os animais receberam 360 mg/kg de Pilo e foram videomonitorados por 12 meses. As fêmeas SE castradas e não-castradas se tornaram epilépticas desde o primeiro mês pós Pilo. O comportamento epiléptico foi identificado assistindo as gravações na velocidade rápida. As fêmeas NSE castradas e não-castradas apresentaram comportamentos similares aos estágios 1 - 3 da Escala de Racine. As alterações motoras nestes grupos (NSE) foram observadas apenas quando as videomonitoração foi analisada na velocidade lenta. Além destas, manifestações comportamentais como movimentos rítmicos da cabeça, movimentos súbitos da cabeça, movimentos de todo o corpo e imobilidade também foram observadas em ambos grupos, SE e NSE. Concluímos que as fêmeas NE podem ter se tornado epilépticas. Adicionado a isto, a análise das alterações motoras na velocidade lenta foi essencial para a observação dos achados das fêmeas NSE, o que sugere que possivelmente muitas alterações motoras têm sido subestimados na pesquisa em epilepsia experimental.

Non-Status Epilepticus female rats show seizure-like behaviors in the chronic phase of Pilocarpine experimental model / Ratas sem Status Epilepticus apresentam comportamento do tipo crise epiléptica na fase crônica do modelo experimental da Pilocarpina

Only few studies have focus on animals that received Pilocarpine (Pilo) and did not develop behavioral status epilepticus (SE) and, whether they may become epileptic in the model's chronic phase. Previews works observed mossy fiber sprouting in the hippocampus of Non-SE (NSE) rats, while others observed spontaneous and recurrent seizures (SRS) 6 - 8 months after animals received Pilo. It is known that neuronal excitability is influenced by female hormones, as well as, the occurrence of SE in castrated and non-castrated female rats. However, it is not known whether females that received Pilo and did not show SE, may have SRS. The aim of this work was to investigate whether castrated and non-castrated female rats that did not show behavioral SE after Pilo, will develop SRS in the following one-year. For that, animals received 360 mg/kg of Pilo and were video monitored for 12 months. SE females from castrated and non-castrated groups became epileptic since the first month after drug injection. Epileptic behaviors were identified watching video monitoring recordings in the fast speed. Castrated and Non castrated NSE animals showed behaviors resembling seizures described by Racine Scale stages 1 - 3. Motor alterations showed by NSE groups could be observed only when recordings were analyzed in slow speed. In addition, behavioral manifestations as, rhythmic head movements, sudden head movements, whole body movements and immobility were also observed in both, SE and NSE groups. We concluded that NSE female rats may have become epileptic. Adding to it, slow speed analysis of motor alterations was essential for the observation of NSE findings, which suggests that possibly many motor alterations have been underestimated in epilepsy experimental research.(AU)

Poucos são os estudos com foco em animais que receberam Pilocarpina (Pilo) e não desenvolveram status epilepticus (SE) comportamental e, se os mesmos se tornarão epilépticos na fase crônica do modelo. Autores observaram o brotamento das fibras musgosas no hipocampo de ratos Não-SE (NSE), enquanto outros observaram crises espontâneas e recorrentes (CER) 6 - 8 meses após receberam a droga. A excitabilidade neuronal é influenciada pelos hormônios femininos e, da mesma forma, a ocorrência de SE em ratas castradas e não-castradas. Entretanto, não é sabido se as fêmeas que não apresentam SE terão CER. O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar se fêmeas castradas e não castradas que não tiveram SE comportamental após a injeção de Pilo desenvolverão CER dentro de um ano. Para isto, os animais receberam 360 mg/kg de Pilo e foram videomonitorados por 12 meses. As fêmeas SE castradas e não-castradas se tornaram epilépticas desde o primeiro mês pós Pilo. O comportamento epiléptico foi identificado assistindo as gravações na velocidade rápida. As fêmeas NSE castradas e não-castradas apresentaram comportamentos similares aos estágios 1 - 3 da Escala de Racine. As alterações motoras nestes grupos (NSE) foram observadas apenas quando as videomonitoração foi analisada na velocidade lenta. Além destas, manifestações comportamentais como movimentos rítmicos da cabeça, movimentos súbitos da cabeça, movimentos de todo o corpo e imobilidade também foram observadas em ambos grupos, SE e NSE. Concluímos que as fêmeas NE podem ter se tornado epilépticas. Adicionado a isto, a análise das alterações motoras na velocidade lenta foi essencial para a observação dos achados das fêmeas NSE, o que sugere que possivelmente muitas alterações motoras têm sido subestimados na pesquisa em epilepsia experimental.(AU)

Non-Status Epilepticus female rats show seizure-like behaviors in the chronic phase of Pilocarpine experimental model / Ratas sem Status Epilepticus apresentam comportamento do tipo crise epiléptica na fase crônica do modelo experimental da Pilocarpina

Abstract Only few studies have focus on animals that received Pilocarpine (Pilo) and did not develop behavioral status epilepticus (SE) and, whether they may become epileptic in the model's chronic phase. Previews works observed mossy fiber sprouting in the hippocampus of Non-SE (NSE) rats, while others observed spontaneous and recurrent seizures (SRS) 6 - 8 months after animals received Pilo. It is known that neuronal excitability is influenced by female hormones, as well as, the occurrence of SE in castrated and non-castrated female rats. However, it is not known whether females that received Pilo and did not show SE, may have SRS. The aim of this work was to investigate whether castrated and non-castrated female rats that did not show behavioral SE after Pilo, will develop SRS in the following one-year. For that, animals received 360 mg/kg of Pilo and were video monitored for 12 months. SE females from castrated and non-castrated groups became epileptic since the first month after drug injection. Epileptic behaviors were identified watching video monitoring recordings in the fast speed. Castrated and Non-castrated NSE animals showed behaviors resembling seizures described by Racine Scale stages 1 - 3. Motor alterations showed by NSE groups could be observed only when recordings were analyzed in slow speed. In addition, behavioral manifestations as, rhythmic head movements, sudden head movements, whole body movements and immobility were also observed in both, SE and NSE groups. We concluded that NSE female rats may have become epileptic. Adding to it, slow speed analysis of motor alterations was essential for the observation of NSE findings, which suggests that possibly many motor alterations have been underestimated in epilepsy experimental research.

Resumo Poucos são os estudos com foco em animais que receberam Pilocarpina (Pilo) e não desenvolveram status epilepticus (SE) comportamental e, se os mesmos se tornarão epilépticos na fase crônica do modelo. Autores observaram o brotamento das fibras musgosas no hipocampo de ratos Não-SE (NSE), enquanto outros observaram crises espontâneas e recorrentes (CER) 6 - 8 meses após receberam a droga. A excitabilidade neuronal é influenciada pelos hormônios femininos e, da mesma forma, a ocorrência de SE em ratas castradas e não-castradas. Entretanto, não é sabido se as fêmeas que não apresentam SE terão CER. O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar se fêmeas castradas e não castradas que não tiveram SE comportamental após a injeção de Pilo desenvolverão CER dentro de um ano. Para isto, os animais receberam 360 mg/kg de Pilo e foram videomonitorados por 12 meses. As fêmeas SE castradas e não-castradas se tornaram epilépticas desde o primeiro mês pós Pilo. O comportamento epiléptico foi identificado assistindo as gravações na velocidade rápida. As fêmeas NSE castradas e não-castradas apresentaram comportamentos similares aos estágios 1 - 3 da Escala de Racine. As alterações motoras nestes grupos (NSE) foram observadas apenas quando as videomonitoração foi analisada na velocidade lenta. Além destas, manifestações comportamentais como movimentos rítmicos da cabeça, movimentos súbitos da cabeça, movimentos de todo o corpo e imobilidade também foram observadas em ambos grupos, SE e NSE. Concluímos que as fêmeas NE podem ter se tornado epilépticas. Adicionado a isto, a análise das alterações motoras na velocidade lenta foi essencial para a observação dos achados das fêmeas NSE, o que sugere que possivelmente muitas alterações motoras têm sido subestimados na pesquisa em epilepsia experimental.

Pyometra in queens - changes in haemato-biochemical parameters

Background: Pyometra is a bacterial and hormone-induced reproductive disease that occurs in the post-estrus luteal phase in intact queens. Pyometra is more common in the diestrus period due to the high progesterone concentration (in queens that mated, spontaneously ovulated, or were induced to ovulate). However, it can also be seen due to the use of exogenous hormones such as progesterone for the suppression of estrus. More research is needed in cases of pyometra in queens, as well as in bitches. Because, considering that the pathogenesis and characteristics of feline pyometra is similar to bitches, studies on pyometra-affected bitches are taken as reference in studies and applications on queens. From this point of view, the aims of this study were to reveal the changes in complete blood count, blood gas, and serum biochemistry parameters in feline pyometra cases and to determine the correlation between the mentioned parameters. Materials, Methods & Results: In the study, a total of 25 female cats of different breeds were used, between the ages of 6 months and 7 years, 15 were diagnosed with pyometra, and 10 healthy. Anamnesis, clinical findings, and ultrasonographic examinations were used in the diagnosis of pyometra. Abdominal ultrasonography was performed on queens brought to the clinic with complaints such as anorexia, polydipsia, polyuria, abdominal tension, and fever. The control group (n =10) consisted of queens that were introduced to the clinic and were reproductively healthy. Before any treatment in queens with pyometra and the control group, 1 mL blood samples were taken from v. cephalica to evaluate complete blood count, blood gases and serum biochemistry parameters. In complete WBC, Lym, Mon, Gra, RBC, Hb, HCT, MCV, MCH and PLT parameters and, blood gas parameters such as pH, pCO2 , pO2 , sO2 , Na, K, Cl, lactate, glucose, HCO3 , and BE were also evaluated in taken blood samples. Biochemical parameters BUN, creatinine, ALT, AST, ALP, amylase, T.BIL, D.BIL, P, CHOL, TG, LDH, TP, CPK, ALP, Ca, GGT were measured in serum samples. After examination and laboratory analysis, ovariohysterectomy was performed on queens as a treatment. Granulocyte, WBC, HCT and MCH levels of the pyometra group were higher (P < 0.05) and Lym levels were lower (P < 0.05) compared to the control group. According to these results, pH, HCO3 , and BE were lower (P < 0.05) in queens with pyometra than those in the control group, while Na and lactate parameters were higher (P < 0.05). According to the results of biochemical analysis, it was determined that BUN, creatinine levels, GGT, and LDH enzyme activities were found to be higher in the pyometra group compared to the control group, while the Ca level was found to be low (P < 0.05). A positive correlation was observed between BUN and creatinine and LDH, WBC, granulocyte, HCT, and lactate, and a negative correlation between lymphocytes, pH, and BE in the correlation analysis performed on queens with pyometra and control group. However, a positive correlation was observed between creatinine and LDH and HCT, and a negative correlation between lymphocyte, pH and BE. Discussion: There is not enough information about pyometra in queens. As a result, it was determined that there were significant changes in complete blood count, blood gases and serum biochemical parameters in queens with pyometra in this study. These changes were generally thought to be related to dehydration and sepsis or endotoxemia. In addition, it was evaluated that prerenal azotemia occurring in pyometra affected queens may cause renal dysfunction. For this reason, it is thought that the results obtained in the presented study may contribute to the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of pyometra cases in queens.

Influence of exogenous corticosterone on testicular function and mating behavior of Nigerian indigenous cocks

In bridging the knowledge gap on stress physiology of Nigerian indigenous chickens, this study investigated the effect of exogenous corticosterone (eCORT) as stress inducing agent on the testicular function and mating behavior of Nigerian indigenous cocks. Twenty-four (24) cocks and one hundred and forty four (144) hens (mating ratio of 1 cock: 6 hens) were grouped into four and assigned to each of the four eCORT treatments (0, 2, 4 and 6 mgeCORT/KgBW) daily for 14 days. Semen samples were collected on days 0, 7 and 14 and analyzed for semen volume (SV), progressive sperm motility (PSM), membrane integrity (MI) and sperm abnormality (SA). Mating behaviors were monitored on days 3, 5 and 8. Blood samples, for hormonal (Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Testosterone (TEST) and stress analysis (heterophil/lymphocyte ratio, H/L) were collected from brachial vein on days 7 and 14. On day 15, cocks were euthanized and testes harvested for histomorphometry. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis, one­way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests all in SPSS 23. Administration of 4 mgeCORT/KgBW declined (P0.05) influence on the mating behaviors, H/L ratio, FSH and TEST. However, 2 mgeCORT/KgBW enhanced LH levels. Administration of eCORT did not affect the testicular epithelial height and seminiferous tubular diameter. In conclusion, optimal stress induced by eCORT impaired semen quality but with less impact on reproductive hormones, H/L and mating behaviors of intensively raised Nigerian indigenous cocks.(AU)

In vitro germination of Abricó-de-Macaco (Couroupita guianensis aubl)zygotic embryos in different culture media and light spectra / Germinação in vitro de embriões zigóticos de Abricó-de-Macaco (Couroupita guianensis aubl) em diferentes meios de cultivo e espectros de luz

Couroupita guianensis Aubl. is an Amazonian forest species with important medicinal and ornamental value. This study evaluated the effect of different culture media and light spectra on the in vitro germination and development of the zygotic embryos of C. guianensis. The culture media, MS and WPM, were evaluated without the addition of plant growth regulators and were associated with four LED light spectra: white (CW), 70% red + 30% blue (R2B), 100% red (R), and 100% blue (B). One hundred percent of the seeds successfully underwent in vitro germination, and the culture media did not interfere with embryo development. In addition to this, the different light spectra induced in vitro morphogenesis and R2B treatment significantly promoted the production of secondary roots. This effect may aid in the rooting and acclimatization of seedlings of this species.

Couropita guianensis Aubl. é uma espécie florestal de origem amazônica, de importância no uso medicinal e ornamental. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o efeito de diferentes meios de cultivo e espectros de luz na germinação e desenvolvimento in vitro de embriões zigóticos de Couropita guianensis. Os meios de cultura avaliados foram o MS e o WPM, sem adição de reguladores de crescimento, associados a quatro espectros de luz de LED branca (CW), 70% vermelha + 30% azul (R2B), 100% vermelha (R) e 100% azul (B). Ocorreu 100% de germinação in vitro e os meios de cultivo não interferiram no desenvolvimento dos embriões. Os diferentes espectros de luz induziram a morfogênese in vitro e o tratamento R2B promoveu a produção de raízes secundárias em número significativo. Este efeito poderá auxiliar no processo de enraizamento e aclimatização de mudas dessa espécie.

In vitro germination of Abricó-de-Macaco (Couroupita guianensis aubl)zygotic embryos in different culture media and light spectra / Germinação in vitro de embriões zigóticos de Abricó-de-Macaco (Couroupita guianensis aubl) em diferentes meios de cultivo e espectros de luz

Couroupita guianensis Aubl. is an Amazonian forest species with important medicinal and ornamental value. This study evaluated the effect of different culture media and light spectra on the in vitro germination and development of the zygotic embryos of C. guianensis. The culture media, MS and WPM, were evaluated without the addition of plant growth regulators and were associated with four LED light spectra: white (CW), 70% red + 30% blue (R2B), 100% red (R), and 100% blue (B). One hundred percent of the seeds successfully underwent in vitro germination, and the culture media did not interfere with embryo development. In addition to this, the different light spectra induced in vitro morphogenesis and R2B treatment significantly promoted the production of secondary roots. This effect may aid in the rooting and acclimatization of seedlings of this species.(AU)

Couropita guianensis Aubl. é uma espécie florestal de origem amazônica, de importância no uso medicinal e ornamental. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o efeito de diferentes meios de cultivo e espectros de luz na germinação e desenvolvimento in vitro de embriões zigóticos de Couropita guianensis. Os meios de cultura avaliados foram o MS e o WPM, sem adição de reguladores de crescimento, associados a quatro espectros de luz de LED branca (CW), 70% vermelha + 30% azul (R2B), 100% vermelha (R) e 100% azul (B). Ocorreu 100% de germinação in vitro e os meios de cultivo não interferiram no desenvolvimento dos embriões. Os diferentes espectros de luz induziram a morfogênese in vitro e o tratamento R2B promoveu a produção de raízes secundárias em número significativo. Este efeito poderá auxiliar no processo de enraizamento e aclimatização de mudas dessa espécie.(AU)

Indução de lactação em vacas leiteiras com dose hormonal reduzida - projeto piloto / Lactation induction in dairy cows with reduced hormonal dose - Pilot Project

Elevadas taxas de descarte de vacas leiteiras relacionadas a baixos índices reprodutivos são observadas nos rebanhos comerciais. A utilização terapêutica de hormônios no intuito de induzir a lactação em animais hígidos é uma realidade. As doses hormonais utilizadas são elevadas e há a necessidade de experimentos que comprovem a possibilidade de redução. Nesse contexto, o objetivo desse projeto piloto foi reduzir as doses hormonais em vacas leiteiras submetidas a um protocolo de indução de lactação de 0,71mg/kg de peso vivo (PV) de benzoato de estradiol para 0,005mg/kg PV. Quatro vacas leiteiras receberam tratamento hormonal por 18 dias e iniciaram a lactação induzida após esse período. As vacas apresentaram produção de 32±4,3kg no pico lactacional induzido. A resposta lactacional das vacas foi considerada satisfatória e motivadora para experimentação de maior escala. Entretanto, são necessários estudos futuros que comprovem cientificamente o que foi encontrado nesse projeto piloto.

High culling rates of dairy cows related to low reproductive indices are found in commercial herds. The therapeutic use of hormones to induce lactation in healthy animals is a reality. The hormonal doses used are high and there is a need for experiments to prove the possibility of reduction. In this context, this study aimed to reduce the hormonal doses in dairy cows submitted to a lactation induction protocol from 0.71mg/kg of body weight (BW) of estradiol benzoate to 0.005mg/kg BW. Four dairy cows received hormone treatment for 18 days and started the induced lactation after this period. The cows had a production of 32±4.3kg at the induced lactational peak. The lactational response of the cows was considered satisfactory and motivating for larger scale experimentation. However, further studies are needed to scientifically prove what was observed in this pilot project.

Licorice zinc suppresses melanogenesis via inhibiting the activation of P38MAPK and JNK signaling pathway in Balb/c mice skin

Purpose: The active melanocytes in the skin were affected by hormones and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. Licorice zinc has a whitening effect, which may have a prominent potential in the treatment of pigmented skin disease. Methods: Modeling chloasma C57BL/6J mice by daily progesterone injection (15 mg/kg) and ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation (λ = 312 nm, 2 h/day) for 30 days. Then, mice were given 0.65, 1.3, and 2.6 (g/kg) of licorice zinc and tranexamic acid 250 mg daily by oral administration for 14 days, respectively. Hematoxylin and eosin and Fontana-Masson staining, and Western blotting (WB) were performed to test the inhibitory of melanogenesis and activation of c-Jun-N-terminal (JNK)/p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) for licorice zinc. Melanogenesis was induced by α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone in vitro. Cell counting kit-8, melanin content determination, and WB were performed to verify the inhibitory effect of licorice zinc on melanogenesis. Results: The present study showed that licorice zinc decreased melanin formation, cutaneous tissue injury, and the phosphorylation of JNK and P38MAPK, which was caused by UVB irradiation in vivo. In vitro, licorice zinc showed opposite effects from JNK/p38 activator. Meanwhile, tyrosinase-related protein-1, tyrosinase, and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor were decreased too. Conclusions: Licorice zinc induced a decrease in melanin synthesis by inhibiting the JNK and the P38MAPK signaling pathway, suggesting licorice zinc is a potential agent of anti-chloasma.

Bilateral dysgerminoma in a senile bitch associated with nodular lymphoid hyperplasia in spleen and pyometra: a case report / Disgerminoma bilateral em cadela senil associado a hiperplasia nodular linfoide em baço e piometra: relato de caso

Ovarian neoplasms affect a low percentage of female dogs, and these tumors are classified according to their cellular origin and are considered rare. Dysgerminoma is a tumor derived from undifferentiated primordial ovarian germinal epithelium cells. In the male, this neoplasm is diagnosed as seminoma. Thus, dysgerminoma is not linked to the production of ovarian hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which play a fundamental role in the establishment of pyometra. At Araujo Veterinary Hospital (HVA), a 15-year-old female Pinscher was admitted with mucopurulent vaginal discharge, abdominal enlargement, anorexia, polydipsia, and prostration clinical signs indicative of pyometra, radiographic and ultrasound examinations were requested, as well as a blood collection for hemogram and serum biochemistry. Ultrasound examination revealed uterine enlargement and hypoechoic content, in addition to bilateral ovarian cysts, measuring 7 cm in the right ovary and 3 cm in the left. The blood count revealed normal values in the erythrogram and the leukogram showed monocytosis and lymphopenia, in addition to macroplatelets. Biochemical examination revealed increased GGT values of 10 U/L. Ovariohysterectomy was performed and, in the trans-surgical period, nodules in the spleen were observed. So, the ovaries and a fragment of the lymphoid organ, were fixed and sent to the histopathology laboratory after surgical resection. Histopathology revealed ovarian dysgerminoma and lymphoid nodular hyperplasia. Ten days after the surgical procedure, the dog returned to the HVA for clinical evaluation and suture removal. However, three days after the return, the patient presented a convulsive condition evolving to death.

Neoplasias ovarianas acometem baixa porcentagem de cadelas, e estes tumores são classificados de acordo com a origem celular, sendo considerados raros. O disgerminoma é um tumor derivado de células do epitélio germinativo primordial ovariano, indiferenciado. No macho, essa neoplasia é diagnosticada como seminoma. Assim, o disgerminoma não está ligado a produção de hormônios ovarianos, como o estrógeno e a progesterona, que desempenham papel fundamental para o estabelecimento da piometra. No Hospital Veterinário Araújo (HVA), uma cachorra da raça Pinscher, com 15 anos, foi antendida apresentando, secreção vaginal mucopurulenta, aumento abdominal, anorexia, polidipsia e prostração sinais clínicos indicativos de piometra, solicitou-se exame de radiográfico e ultrassonografia, bem como a coleta de sangue para hemograma e bioquímico sérico. O exame ultrassonográfico revelou aumento uterino e conteúdo hipoecóico, além de cistos ovarianos bilaterais, com mensurações de 7 cm no ovário direito e 3 cm no esquerdo. O hemograma revelou valores normais no eritrograma e o leucograma apresentou monocitose e linfopenia, além de macroplaquetas. O exame bioquímico revelou valores de GGT aumentados, em 10 U/L. A ovariohisterectomia foi realizada e no trans cirúrgico observou-se nódulos no baço. Assim, os ovários e um fragmento do órgão linfoide, após a ressecção cirúrgica, foram fixados e encaminhadas para laboratório de histopatologia. A histopatologia revelou disgerminoma ovariano e hiperplasia nodular linfoide. Dez dias após o procedimento cirúrgico, a paciente retornou ao HVA para avaliação clínica e retirada da sutura. No entanto, três dias após o retorno, o animal apresentou um quadro convulsivo evoluindo ao óbito.

Aspectos morfofisiológicos e biotécnicas aplicadas à reprodução de novilhas bovinas e búfalas pré-púberes / Morphophysiological aspects and biotechnologies applied to the reproduction of prepubertal bovine and buffalo heifers

A puberdade corresponde ao momento da primeira ovulação, que culmina com o desenvolvimento final dos órgãos e estruturas envolvidas no controle neuro-endócrino reprodutivo. É um fenômeno multifatorial com grande impacto na vida produtiva das futuras matrizes e em sua eficiência econômica, ocorrendo muitas interações entre os fatores internos e externos. A idade da puberdade está relacionada ao peso corporal, que possui grandes efeitos da genética do animal e sua interação com o ambiente, especialmente a nutrição e interação social com machos. Algumas espécies, como os bubalinos, sofrem efeito de outros elementos ambientais, como a luminosidade e o fotoperíodo. A puberdade novilhas búfalas ou bovinas pode ser adiantada por meio do emprego de biotécnicas: indução da puberdade ou inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF). Em ambas, os protocolos baseiam-se, principalmente, em aplicação de progestágeno associado com fonte de estradiol; mas a indução também pode ser realizada utilizando outros hormônios, como hormônio liberador de gonadotrofinas, prostaglandinas e gonadotrofina coriônica equina. No emprego da IATF, novilhas pré-púberes podem ser induzidas e inseminadas com outro protocolo de sincronização ou podem ser inseminadas com o mesmo protocolo de IATF, podendo aumentar as taxas de prenhez e diminuir os custos. Adiantando a puberdade, ocorre incremento na produção, melhorando a eficiência econômica da atividade pecuária.(AU)

Puberty corresponds to the moment of the first ovulation, which culminates in the final development of the organs and structures involved in the neuro-endocrine control of reproduction. It is a multifactorial phenomenon with a great impact on the productive life of future matrices and their economic efficiency, with many interactions between internal and external factors. The age of puberty is related to body weight, which has great effects on the animal's genetics and its interaction with the environment, especially nutrition and social interaction with males. Some species, such as buffalo, are affected by other environmental elements, such as luminosity and photoperiod. Puberty in buffaloes and bovine heifers can be advanced through the use of biotechniques: induction of puberty or timed artificial insemination (TAI). In both, the protocols are mainly based on the application of progestogen associated with a source of estradiol; but induction can also be performed using other hormones, such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone, prostaglandins and equine chorionic gonadotropin. In the employment of the TAI, prepubertal heifers can be induced and inseminated with another synchronization protocol or they can be inseminated with the same TAI protocol, which can increase pregnancy rates and decrease costs. Advancing puberty, there is an increase in production, improving the economic efficiency of livestock activity.(AU)

Hiperplasia endometrial cística em uma coelha-doméstica (Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus) / Cystic endometrial hyperplasia in a domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus)

Background: Cystic endometrial hyperplasia is a hormone-dependent disease induced by systemic increase in progesteronethat can occur in several domestic species, such as the rabbit. This disease may be associated with sex steroid hormones,especially progesterone, and may be asymptomatic, and it is diagnosed using complementary imaging tests such as totalabdominal ultrasound. However, surgical excisional biopsy with histopathological tissue analysis is the gold standard. Thisstudy reports a case of asymptomatic cystic endometrial hyperplasia in a female Miniature Lion Lop rabbit (Oryctolaguscuniculus domesticus) treated with therapeutic ovariohysterectomy.Case: A domestic, adult, female Miniature Lion Lop rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus), aged approximately 5 yearsand weighing 3.2 kg, was referred to specialized care to undergo ovariohysterectomy, an elective procedure. The tutor onlyreported the occurrence of a single episode of vulvar secretion more than 2 years ago, treated with antibiotics, with remissionof clinical signs. In the intraoperative period after celiotomy, the uterine horn and uterine body showed a significant increasein volume, with abnormal color changes and tissue consistency; however, both changes were clinically asymptomatic. Subsequently, biopsy was performed during the ovariohysterectomy procedure. The excised uterus and ovaries were placed in 10%formalin and histopathologically analyzed. The macroscopic histopathological examination of the sectioned tissue revealed aslight amount of brownish fluid inside the uterine horns, in addition to multiple cystic areas in the uterine mucosa. Microscopicexamination revealed marked hyperplasia of well-differentiated endometrial epithelial cells, occasionally forming cystic structuresof different sizes. Moderate congestion, mild multifocal hemorrhage, and mild multifocal inflammatory infiltrate in the lamina...

Feline eosinophilic keratoconjunctivitis: nonsteroidal vs corticosteroid topical treatment

Background: Feline eosinophilic keratoconjunctivitis is a proliferative eye lesion of chronic aspect with usually unilateralpresentation that may initiate as a superficial vascularization that evolves to a proliferative, granular, irregular lesion ofwhitish-pink aspect. With its association with an immune-mediated response, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories do notappear to be efficient, although few studies describe its use. This case report describes a case of a feline eosinophilic keratoconjunctivitis with its clinical evolution since the use of nonsteroidal topical anti-inflammatory drug in an undiagnosedpatient and the transition to a topical corticosteroid and cure after 14 days since diagnosis.Case: An 8-year-old female cat was attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Dom Bosco Catholic University (UCDB),with main complaint being an eye injury with at least 36 days of evolution and unresponsive to treatment (topical tobramycin 0.3% every 12 h / ketorolac trometamol 0.5%/ every 12 h and ophthalmic lubricant/every 4 h). Since the patienthad free access to the street, the owners suspected of trauma-induced lesion. At physical examination, it was observed aproliferative lesion at the peri-limbal superotemporal quadrant of the right cornea with approximately 0.4 cm diameter,with color varying of pale to pink, with irregular surface and low vascularity, the adjacent conjunctiva was also affectedwith similar multiple nodular lesions (0.1 cm). Fluorescein test was negative as well as FIV/FeLV immunochromatographytesting. Feline herpesvirus investigation was not possible. The patient was anesthetized and a lesion specimen was acquiredwith a cotton swab scraping and a fine needle aspiration. Cytology showed predominance of eosinophils and mast cells,with rare corneal epithelial cells, with smear background containing mast cell...

Feline eosinophilic keratoconjunctivitis: nonsteroidal vs corticosteroid topical treatment

Background: Feline eosinophilic keratoconjunctivitis is a proliferative eye lesion of chronic aspect with usually unilateralpresentation that may initiate as a superficial vascularization that evolves to a proliferative, granular, irregular lesion ofwhitish-pink aspect. With its association with an immune-mediated response, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories do notappear to be efficient, although few studies describe its use. This case report describes a case of a feline eosinophilic keratoconjunctivitis with its clinical evolution since the use of nonsteroidal topical anti-inflammatory drug in an undiagnosedpatient and the transition to a topical corticosteroid and cure after 14 days since diagnosis.Case: An 8-year-old female cat was attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Dom Bosco Catholic University (UCDB),with main complaint being an eye injury with at least 36 days of evolution and unresponsive to treatment (topical tobramycin 0.3% every 12 h / ketorolac trometamol 0.5%/ every 12 h and ophthalmic lubricant/every 4 h). Since the patienthad free access to the street, the owners suspected of trauma-induced lesion. At physical examination, it was observed aproliferative lesion at the peri-limbal superotemporal quadrant of the right cornea with approximately 0.4 cm diameter,with color varying of pale to pink, with irregular surface and low vascularity, the adjacent conjunctiva was also affectedwith similar multiple nodular lesions (0.1 cm). Fluorescein test was negative as well as FIV/FeLV immunochromatographytesting. Feline herpesvirus investigation was not possible. The patient was anesthetized and a lesion specimen was acquiredwith a cotton swab scraping and a fine needle aspiration. Cytology showed predominance of eosinophils and mast cells,with rare corneal epithelial cells, with smear background containing mast cell...(AU)

Management of clonal mini-garden with gibberellic acid in guava rootstock propagation / Manejo de minijardim clonal com ácido giberélico na propagação de porta-enxerto para goiabeira

The viability of the mini-cutting technique requires seedling regrowth ability and continuous propagule production. It is hypothesized that the application of gibberellic acid (GA) can stimulate vegetation and increase the production of mini-cuttings. The aim of this study was to increase the mini-cutting yield of Psidium guajava (L.) × Psidium guineense (Sw.) ('BRS Guaraçá') as a function of foliar application of GA and season of the year. The experiment was laid out in a randomized-block design with split-plots in time, in which the plots consisted of different GA concentrations applied (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg L-¹) and the subplots were represented by two application periods or seasons (summer and winter). Four replicates were used, with two plants per plot. After the seedlings were topped, GA was applied at different concentrations and the emerged shoots were evaluated over 30 days. Mini-stump yield was assessed by collecting and evaluating the potential number of mini-cuttings. Shoot length and mini-stump yield increased linearly with the increasing GA concentrations during the summer. In the winter, this response was quadratic, with optimal concentrations estimated at 65.3 mg L-¹ for shoot length and 76 mg L-¹ for mini-stump yield. The GA concentration of 200 mg L-¹ provided shorter internodes in the summer, whereas in the winter the use of GA did not interfere with this trait. The increasing applications of GA induced a linear increase in stem diameter at both seasons of the year. Gibberellic acid did not interfere with the rooting of the mini-cuttings. The highest rooting percentage occurred in the summer, with an average of 95%. In the winter, this value was 77.2%, demonstrating that mini-cuttings are a promising technique for 'BRS Guaraçá'. Foliar spraying of GA promoted an increase in mini-cutting production, without interfering with their rooting.

A viabilidade da mini-estaquia requer capacidade de rebrota das mudas e produção contínua de propágulos. A aplicação de ácido giberélico pode estimular a vegetação e proporcionar aumento na produção de mini-estacas, como hipótese. O objetivo deste trabalho foi aumentar a produtividade de minijardins de Psidium guajava (L.) × Psidium guineense (Sw.) ('BRS Guaraçá'), em função da aplicação foliar de ácido giberélico (AG) e da época do ano. O delineamento empregado foi em DBC, em parcelas subdivididas no tempo, sendo as parcelas constituídas por plantas submetidas a diferentes concentrações de AG (0, 50, 100, 150 e 200 mg L-¹) e as subparcelas constituídas por duas épocas de aplicação (verão e inverno), com quatro repetições e duas plantas por parcela. Após desponte das mudas, o AG foi aplicado em diferentes concentrações e as brotações emitidas foram avaliadas ao longo de trinta dias. A produtividade das minitouceiras foi avaliada por coleta e avaliação do número potencial de mini-estacas. O comprimento da brotação e a produtividade das minitouceiras aumentaram linearmente em função do aumento das concentrações de AG durante o verão enquanto que no inverno, essa resposta foi quadrática com as concentrações ótimas estimadas em 65,3 mg L-¹ para comprimento de brotações e 76 mg L-¹ para produtividade das minitouceiras. A concentração de 200 mg L-¹ possibilitou o menor comprimento de internódio no verão, no inverno, a utilização do AG não interferiu nessa característica. As aplicações crescentes de AG aumentaram linearmente o diâmetro do caule nas duas épocas do ano. O AG não interferiu no enraizamento das mini-estacas. O maior percentual de enraizamento ocorreu no verão, com média de 95% e no inverno este valor foi de 77,2%, evidenciando a mini-estaquia como técnica promissora para ‘BRS Guaraçá’. A pulverização do AG via foliar promoveu aumento da produção de mini-estacas, não interferindo no seu enraizamento.

Management of clonal mini-garden with gibberellic acid in guava rootstock propagation / Manejo de minijardim clonal com ácido giberélico na propagação de porta-enxerto para goiabeira

The viability of the mini-cutting technique requires seedling regrowth ability and continuous propagule production. It is hypothesized that the application of gibberellic acid (GA) can stimulate vegetation and increase the production of mini-cuttings. The aim of this study was to increase the mini-cutting yield of Psidium guajava (L.) × Psidium guineense (Sw.) ('BRS Guaraçá') as a function of foliar application of GA and season of the year. The experiment was laid out in a randomized-block design with split-plots in time, in which the plots consisted of different GA concentrations applied (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg L-¹) and the subplots were represented by two application periods or seasons (summer and winter). Four replicates were used, with two plants per plot. After the seedlings were topped, GA was applied at different concentrations and the emerged shoots were evaluated over 30 days. Mini-stump yield was assessed by collecting and evaluating the potential number of mini-cuttings. Shoot length and mini-stump yield increased linearly with the increasing GA concentrations during the summer. In the winter, this response was quadratic, with optimal concentrations estimated at 65.3 mg L-¹ for shoot length and 76 mg L-¹ for mini-stump yield. The GA concentration of 200 mg L-¹ provided shorter internodes in the summer, whereas in the winter the use of GA did not interfere with this trait. The increasing applications of GA induced a linear increase in stem diameter at both seasons of the year. Gibberellic acid did not interfere with the rooting of the mini-cuttings. The highest rooting percentage occurred in the summer, with an average of 95%. In the winter, this value was 77.2%, demonstrating that mini-cuttings are a promising technique for 'BRS Guaraçá'. Foliar spraying of GA promoted an increase in mini-cutting production, without interfering with their rooting.(AU)

A viabilidade da mini-estaquia requer capacidade de rebrota das mudas e produção contínua de propágulos. A aplicação de ácido giberélico pode estimular a vegetação e proporcionar aumento na produção de mini-estacas, como hipótese. O objetivo deste trabalho foi aumentar a produtividade de minijardins de Psidium guajava (L.) × Psidium guineense (Sw.) ('BRS Guaraçá'), em função da aplicação foliar de ácido giberélico (AG) e da época do ano. O delineamento empregado foi em DBC, em parcelas subdivididas no tempo, sendo as parcelas constituídas por plantas submetidas a diferentes concentrações de AG (0, 50, 100, 150 e 200 mg L-¹) e as subparcelas constituídas por duas épocas de aplicação (verão e inverno), com quatro repetições e duas plantas por parcela. Após desponte das mudas, o AG foi aplicado em diferentes concentrações e as brotações emitidas foram avaliadas ao longo de trinta dias. A produtividade das minitouceiras foi avaliada por coleta e avaliação do número potencial de mini-estacas. O comprimento da brotação e a produtividade das minitouceiras aumentaram linearmente em função do aumento das concentrações de AG durante o verão enquanto que no inverno, essa resposta foi quadrática com as concentrações ótimas estimadas em 65,3 mg L-¹ para comprimento de brotações e 76 mg L-¹ para produtividade das minitouceiras. A concentração de 200 mg L-¹ possibilitou o menor comprimento de internódio no verão, no inverno, a utilização do AG não interferiu nessa característica. As aplicações crescentes de AG aumentaram linearmente o diâmetro do caule nas duas épocas do ano. O AG não interferiu no enraizamento das mini-estacas. O maior percentual de enraizamento ocorreu no verão, com média de 95% e no inverno este valor foi de 77,2%, evidenciando a mini-estaquia como técnica promissora para ‘BRS Guaraçá. A pulverização do AG via foliar promoveu aumento da produção de mini-estacas, não interferindo no seu enraizamento.(AU)

Use of hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone acetonide or ozone gas in the treatment of induced osteoarthritis in rabbits

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of the intra-articular application of hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone acetonide, and ozone gas in the treatment of induced osteoarthritis in rabbit’s stifles.Methods: Twenty-one Norfolk rabbits were submitted to cranial cruciate ligament transection of the left stifle. After six weeks of the surgery, the rabbits were randomized assigned into three groups: G1 (control) – saline solution (0.9%); G2 – hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone; G3 – ozone gas, submitted to three intra-articular applications every seven days. Results: Significant differences occurred: osteophytes at medial femoral condyle (G2 > G1, G2 > G3) on radiography exam; thickening of the medial condyle (G1 > G3, G2 > G3) on ultrasound exam; osteophytes at lateral tibial condyle (G2 > G1, G2 > G3), and medial femoral condyle (G1 > G2, G3 > G1) on computed tomography. Histologically, mean values of chondrocytes in the femur and tibia in G3 and G2 were statistically lower. Conclusions: The intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone accentuated degenerative joint disease by imaging and macroscopic evaluations, and by histological findings, this treatment and the ozone gas treatment showed similar effects and were inferior to the saline solution (0.9%).