Relation of fibrocartilaginous embolism and acute and non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion with imaging tests: case report / Relação de embolia fibrocartilaginosa e extrusão aguda e não-compressiva do núcleo pulposus com testes de imagem: relato de caso

Fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCEM) and acute, non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE) are non-compressive myelopathies that are difficult to differentiate. The definitive diagnosis is obtained only with histology, but the presumptive diagnosis is made through clinical signs and imaging tests. The aim of this study is to report the imaging tests performed for the diagnosis of a neurological clinical case and discuss the best diagnostic method. After attending the patient, complementary tests were requested. Radiography results showed no change. The computed tomography diagnostic impression indicated distal protrusion between C6-C7, T11-T12, T13-L1 followed by mild spinal cord compression defined by the presence of a ventral hyperattenuating region. Magnetic resonance (RMI), showed a slight T2W hypersignal, well delimited in the gray matter, lateralized to the right, over the cranial third of C7. Concluding that the magnetic resonance is the method that brought more information for the diagnosis, in which the others were not described medullary alterations pertinent to FCEM and ANNPE. With their fair prognosis, the absence of histological diagnosis of these diseases may be a limiting factor in this study and, in relation to the RMI alterations being very similar between FCEM and ANNPE it is not possible to diagnose fully accurately.

A embolia fibrocartilaginosa (EFC) e a extrusão aguda não compressiva do núcleo pulposo (EANCNP) são mielopatias não compressivas de difícil diferenciação. O diagnóstico definitivo é obtido apenas com a histologia, mas o diagnóstico presuntivo é feito por meio de sinais clínicos e exames de imagem. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar os exames de imagem realizados para o diagnóstico de um caso clínico neurológico e discutir o melhor método diagnóstico. Após o atendimento do paciente, foram solicitados exames complementares. Os resultados da radiografia não mostraram nenhuma alteração. A impressão diagnóstica da tomografia computadorizada indicou protrusão distal entre C6-C7, T11-T12, T13-L1, seguida de leve compressão medular definida pela presença de região hiperatenuante ventral. À ressonância magnética (RM), apresentava discreto hipersinal em T2W, bem delimitado na substância cinzenta, lateralizado à direita, sobre o terço cranial de C7. Concluiu-se que a ressonância magnética é o método que mais trouxe informações para o diagnóstico, os demais métodos não foram descritos alterações medulares pertinentes à EFC e à EANCNP. Com seu prognóstico favorável, a ausência de diagnóstico histológico dessas doenças pode ser um fator limitante neste estudo. Em relação às alterações do RM serem muito semelhantes entre EFC e EANCNP, não é possível diagnosticar com total precisão.

Polioencephalomalacia in sheep - clinical and magnetic resonance imaging findings

Background: Polioencephalomalacia (PEM) is a neurological disease in ruminants, which is characterized by malacia of brain gray matter. Thiamine deficiency and sulfur intoxication are the most common causes of PEM in sheep. Affected animals present signs of cerebrocortical syndrome, including amaurosis, ataxia, head pressing, mental depression, seizures, and opisthotonus. The neurological examination aims to determine the neurolocalization of the lesions and advanced imaging techniques are useful for confirming the affected area(s) in the central nervous system. The aim of this study is to describe clinical features and ante-mortem diagnosis using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a sheep with PEM. Case: A 18-month-old male Dorper sheep from a flock started receiving concentrate 7 days before. According to the owner, no clinical signs of abnormality were observed on the previous morning. However, in the afternoon, the animal became selfisolated and did not follow the flock to the sheepfold. The following day, he was found in recumbency. Physical examination revealed lateral recumbency, rectal temperature 39.5ºC, 52 bpm, 120 bpm, congested mucous membranes, capillary refill time 1 s, ruminal (4/5 min) and intestinal hypomotility. The assessment of the central nervous system revealed a decreased level of consciousness, focal seizures, opisthotonus, and absence of menace response. The following differential diagnoses were listed: PEM, head trauma, focal symmetrical encephalomalacia, bacterial encephalitis, and rabies. Treatment was composed of dexamethasone [0.2 mg/kg - i.v., SID (1st-3rd day), 0.1 mg/kg, i.v., SID (4th-6th day), and 0.05 mg/kg, i.v., SID (7th-9th day)]; mannitol [1 g/kg - i.v. and diazepam 0.4 mg/kg, i.v. single dose at admission]; vitamin B1 [10 mg/kg - i.m., SID], furosemide [1 mg/kg - i.v., SID for 3 days] and sulfadoxine/trimethoprim [30 mg/kg - i.m., SID for 10 days]. After the initial treatment, the patient showed mild clinical improvement; however, the amaurosis was still present. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain was performed on the 2nd day of hospitalization, showing a symmetrical hypersignal in the parietal and occipital cortices, in the axial and sagittal sequences weighted in T2 and FLAIR. Discussion: This study aimed to describe the clinical signs and MRI findings in a sheep with PEM. In this case, the sudden change to the feed composition probably led to ruminal dysbiosis, inhibition of thiamine-producing microorganisms and proliferation of bacteria that synthesize thiaminase. Thiamine therapy proved to be effective and capable of reverting the clinical signs. The decrease in the level of consciousness, cortical blindness, and opisthotonus are due to alterations in the parietal cortex, in the occipital cortex, and in the cerebellum, respectively, which were demonstrated by hypersignal areas in the MRI. Therefore, the neurolocalization of the lesion based on neurologic examination and the MRI findings were related. The physicochemical and cytological evaluations of the cerebrospinal fluid, and dosage of thiamine and the concentration of hydrogen sulphide in the rumen were not performed. However, the response to thiamine treatment associated with the neurologic examination and MRI findings helped in determining the diagnosis. Additionally, MRI can be used as a useful tool for the ante mortem diagnosis of PEM.

Artéria subclávia direita aberrante em cão - aspectos clínicos e de imagem / Aberrant right subclavian artery in a dog - clinical and imaging aspects

Background: Aberrant right subclavian artery is only rarely observed in veterinary medicine. Some animals may present postprandial regurgitation and progressive weight loss, which is considered an incidental finding unrelated to clinical alterations. Advanced imaging techniques such as thoracic CT scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and contrast angiography are used for the accurate detection of lesions, anatomical changes and specific information about vascular rings. This paper describes the clinical changes, imaging exams and therapeutic approach in a female dog with megaesophagus induced by an aberrant right subclavian artery. Case: A 2-month-old female bull terrier, weighing 1.6 kg, with a history of regurgitation immediately or a few minutes after a meal, diarrhea, polyphagia, progressive emaciation and apathy for 45 days, was treated at a University Veterinary Hospital. The dog's physical examination revealed 7% dehydration and body condition score 1 (scale 1 to 5), but no cardiac or pulmonary alterations upon auscultation. The hematological analysis and renal and hepatic serum enzymes were within the normal range for the species. In view of the presumptive clinical diagnosis of vascular anomaly, suggested by the contrast X-ray examination, a chest tomography was performed, which revealed altered aortic arch shape and contours, and a posterior aneurysm in the area of abnormal connection of the right subclavian artery. The patient was released with a prescription for conservative dietary management for megaesophagus. Within two weeks, the patient returned with a report of a good response to the prescribed therapy, absence of vomiting and diarrhea, and an increase in body weight. Surgical correction was recommended, but has not been performed so far, but conservative treatment for megaesophagus was continued. No further episodes of regurgitation were identified during the nine-month follow-up period. Discussion: In the case reported here, the right subclavian artery is considered anatomically atypical because it arises directly from the aortic arch. This vascular anomaly passes on to the right pectoral limb, dorsal to the esophagus, contracting it in its dorsal aspect. It tends to affect purebred dogs, occurring more frequently in Irish setters, German shepherds and Labrador retrievers, although it has been described in other breeds such as the bull terrier documented here and mixed breed dogs. Vascular ring anomalies may not cause clinical changes in animals and represent only incidental findings, or they may lead to gastrointestinal changes resulting from esophageal stricture, contributing to megaesophagus and clinical signs of esophageal obstruction, especially in recently weaned puppies. Such alterations were observed in this case, with the dog presenting regurgitation, immediately or a few minutes after a meal, megaesophagus, diarrhea and progressive weight loss. A CT scan was performed to confirm the type and location of the vascular anomaly and diagnostic accuracy, as recommended in the literature. Dietary therapy is one of the approaches adopted for patients presenting with regurgitation resulting from megaesophagus secondary to vascular anomalies. The dog in this report responded well to the medical therapy; nevertheless, the treatment of choice to correct the esophageal obstruction caused by this anomaly is surgical sectioning of the aberrant vessel by right intercostal thoracotomy, given that the degree of esophageal dilation and dysfunction tends to increase over time. However, at this time, the animal's owner decided to suspend the recommended surgical procedure.

Adrenal glands of Chinchilla lanigera - study of anatomical features with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging

Background: Since chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is frequently used as a laboratory animal, satisfactory data about the imaging anatomical appearance of its adrenal glands, such as their anatomical location and closeness with other abdominal soft tissue and vessels, are important. The aim of this study to determine anatomical features of the chinchilla adrenal gland's using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Materials, Methods & Results: We used 12 chinchillas (6 males and 6 females), aged 18 months. The animals were in supine recumbency when contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) was performed. Transverse, sagittal and dorsal images of the adrenal glands were obtained with iodinated contrast medium, and 3D reconstruction of the obtained images was applied. The craniocaudal (CrCc - length), dorsoventral (DV - height) and lateromedial (LM - width) diameters were measured using an electronic calliper. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed, and coronal T1-weighted images were obtained. The transverse CT anatomical image at the level of the 3rd lumbar vertebra demonstrated the location of the both adrenal glands in accordance with the grey-white scale's variation. The right adrenal gland was hypo-attenuated and elliptic compared to the right kidney and in close contact to it and to the caudal vena cava. The left adrenal gland was oval and at a distance to the abdominal aorta. The dorsal MRI anatomical study of the chinchilla's abdominal organs at a distance of 10 mm from the spine and in a T1-weighted sequence showed that both adrenal glands were retroperitoneal organs. Discussion: Post-contrasted CT defined the topography of both glands. The right adrenal gland has an oval shape and is cranially situated to the left gland, whose shape is cylindrical and elongated. The LM diameter of the right gland is higher than that measured in the left gland. Both DV and CrCc diameters of the right gland are lower compared to those of the left gland. The right adrenal gland is in close contact to the caudal vena cava, the right kidney and the liver, and the left adrenal gland is in a distance to the abdominal aorta. The right adrenal gland was close to the caudal vena cava and the right kidney and medially to the left kidney. The successful comparative analysis of the images in 3D reconstruction and post-contrast CT in 2D allowed us to conclude that 3D reconstruction is suitable to obtain detailed information in a summary form regarding the closeness of the glands and their shape, mainly because the results are in a real time and highly comprehensive. Our data are in in agreement with previous findings about the advantages of 3D reconstruction. The research algorithm applied was based on the dorsal visualization of the glands in T1-weighted sequence, achieving a comprehensive and high-quality MRI imaging of the examined organs in chinchillas. Both adrenal glands were retroperitoneal organs and with low signal. The dorsal MRI anatomical study of the chinchilla's abdominal organs at a distance of 10 mm from the spine and in a T1-weighted sequence showed the whole profile of the right and left glands and the cranial position of the right gland to the left one, the close contact between the right gland and the kidney and the distance between the left gland and the left kidney. The MRI results are detailed and comprehensive for interpretation. In conclusion, the results of the present study are comprehensive, detailed and with high resolution. We present data for the anatomical relationships of the studied organs, their shape and macrometric parameters, concluding that the above mentioned modalities are very important tools for studying the chinchilla's adrenal glands to create a morphological base, which is necessary to investigate specific diseases.

Métodos ultrassonográficos na avaliação das afecções prostáticas em cães ­ revisão de literatura / Ultrasonographic methods in the evaluation of prostatic disorders in dogs ­ paper review

O objetivo desta revisão foi descrever as principais técnicas de avaliação e achados ultrassonográficos da próstata canina. A ultrassonografia é o método de escolha para avaliação da glândula prostática, sendo imprescindível como auxílio no diagnóstico na detecção de anormalidades, principalmente quando há suspeita da presença de tumores. Com inovação dos equipamentos, surgiram técnicas complementares à ultrassonografia modo Bidimensional (B), tais como Doppler, ultrassonografia contrastada e elastografia, que aumentam a acurácia diagnóstica. O Doppler fornece informações sobre arquitetura vascular e aspectos hemodinâmicos dos vasos sanguíneos. A ultrassonografia contrastada permite determinar parâmetros relacionados à perfusão sanguínea das estruturas pelos agentes de contraste (ex.: microbolhas), definindo, portanto, padrões de alta e baixa intensidade da arquitetura vascular. A elastografia proporciona a avaliação da rigidez tecidual tanto de forma qualitativa, por meio de elastogramas, quanto quantitativa, por meio das velocidades de cisalhamento. Espera-se que esta revisão possa contribuir com informações relevantes aos leitores e veterinários da área de ultrassonografia e reprodução animal.(AU)

The purpose of this review was to describe the main assessment techniques and ultrasound findings of the canine prostate. Ultrasonography is the method of choice for assessing the prostate gland, being essential as an aid in the diagnosis in the detection of abnormalities, especially when the presence of tumors is suspected. With the innovation of the equipment, complementary techniques to B-mode ultrasonography have emerged, such as Doppler, contrasted ultrasound and elastography, which increase the diagnostic accuracy. Doppler provides information on vascular architecture and hemodynamic aspects of blood vessels. Contrast ultrasonography allows to determine parameters related to the blood perfusion of structures by contrast agents (eg, microbubbles), thus defining high and low intensity patterns of vascular architecture. ARFI elastography provides assessment of tissue stiffness both qualitatively, using elastograms, and quantitative, using shear speeds. It is hoped that this review can contribute with relevant information to readers and veterinarians in the area of asound and animal reproduction.(AU)

Manufacture and performance of peanut skin cellulose nanocrystals

Due to their remarkable characteristics, cellulose nanocrystals are strategic materials that has various industrial applications, and are capable of being produced from vegetable fibers derived from the discards of agricultural practices. Peanut(Arachis hypogaea L.) peel is a residue considered of low commercial value and high polluting potential that needs new applications in order to mitigate these problems. Thus, in this study the feasibility of extracting cellulose nanocrystals was investigated. Two chemical routes were followed for this extraction. In the first, the fibers were bleached before acid hydrolysis whereas mercerization was used in the second. The second route was more efficient, as it enabled the elimination of proteins and phenolic compounds, which could be confirmed through solid-state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) that revealed no signs of lignin residues. The cellulose nanocrystals composed of mainly type I cellulose presented a high degree of crystallinity index, 75 %, a thermal stability up to 200 °C, considerable stability in suspension (zeta potential of -48.1 ± 2.1 mV), and an aspect ratio of 125. They represent options that could add value to this residue, which would ease environmental problems.

Effects of fire on soil organic matter in northern Amazonian forest fragments / Efeitos do fogo sobre a matéria orgânica do solo em fragmentos de floresta no norte da Amazônia

Forest fires incorporate pyrogenic organic matter into the soil, affecting the characteristics of soil organic matter (SOM) due to its high aromaticity, increasing its renewal time. However, the factors that control the concentration of pyrogenic organic matter and its chemical composition and structure are still little known. Forest fragments dispersed in a savanna matrix of the northern Brazilian Amazon are frequently impacted by fires, which can affect the composition of SOM within the fragments. The aim of this study was to analyse the chemical composition of SOM in the border and interior of six forest fragments in the Roraima savanna, in the northern Brazilian Amazon. Soil samples were collected at 10-cm intervals up to 1 m in depth at the border and in the interior of each fragment. Soil organic material concentration was determined with 10% HF solution and its elemental composition, thermogravimetric index, and 13C CPMAS NMR spectroscopic analysis were determined. There was no significant difference in the aromaticity index between border and interior. The concentration of alkyl C structures between border (22 to 25%) and interior (19 to 29%) indicated the occurrence of medium-intensity fires in the study area. The thermogravimetric analysis showed no significant difference in the thermal stability of SOM between border and interior. Our results showed no pronounced difference in SOM quality up to 1 m depth between the border and the interior of the evaluated forest fragments, indicating that this compartment is stable throughout the fragments.(AU)

Incêndios florestais incorporam matéria orgânica pirogênica ao solo, afetando as características da matéria orgânica do solo (MOS), devido a sua alta aromaticidade. Porém, os fatores que controlam a composição química e a estrutura da matéria orgânica pirogência ainda são pouco conhecidos. Fragmentos florestais dispersos em uma matriz de savana na Amazônia setentrional brasileira são freqüentemente impactados por incêndios, que podem afetar a composição da MOS nos fragmentos. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a composição química da MOS na borda e no interior de seis fragmentos florestais situados na savana de Roraima, norte da Amazônia brasileira. Amostras de solo foram coletadas em intervalos de 10 cm até 1 m de profundidade na borda e no interior de cada fragmento. A concentração da MOS foi determinada com solução de HF a 10% e sua composição elementar, índice termogravimétrico e análise espectroscópica de 13C CPMAS RMN foram determinados. Não houve diferença significativa no índice de aromaticidade entre borda e interior. A concentração de estruturas alquil C entre a borda (22 a 25%) e o interior (19 a 29%) indicou a ocorrência de incêndios de média intensidade na área de estudo. A análise termogravimétrica não mostrou diferença significativa na estabilidade térmica da matéria orgânica do solo entre a borda e o interior. Nossos resultados não mostraram diferença pronunciada na qualidade da MOS até 1 m de profundidade entre a borda e o interior dos fragmentos florestais avaliados, indicando que este compartimento é estável ao longo dos fragmentos.(AU)

In vitro impact of condensed tannins on the caecal metabolites of chickens / Impacto in vitro de taninos condensados nos metabólitos cecais de frangos de corte

Tannins are a diverse group of plant phenolic compounds. Condensed tannins (CTs) represent a major subgroup of tannins and were extracted from tilia (Tilia L.) flowers and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) leaves. These extracts were examined for their effects on the metabolic profile of chicken caeca. By using in vitro, a nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), which was combined with multivariate statistics, the current study was applied for the first time to investigate how three different CT compositions, procyanidins (PC) and/or prodelphinidins (PD) units influenced the metabolic end-products in caecal contents of chickens. In the presence of tannins, glutamate, leucine, lysine, pyroglutamate, phenylalanine, proline, and sarcosine were significantly decreased. CT extracts significantly influenced the fermentation, increasing the concentrations of some fatty acids such as acetate, butyrate, and propionate whereas. In contrast, lactate decreased between the treatments. This study identified the key structural features of CTs that contain either high molar proportions of PD or PC, which might be useful to improve the efficiency of feed utilization in chickens.(AU)

Taninos são um grupo diversificado de compostos fenólicos derivados de plantas. Os taninos condensados (TCs) representam o maior subgrupo de taninos extraídos das flores de tília (Tilia L) e de folhas negras (acácia-bastarda). Estes extratos foram examinados para a avaliação dos seus efeitos no perfil metabólico do ceco de frangos de corte. Com o emprego da ressonância magnética nuclear in vitro (1H-NMR) combinada com estatística multivariada, o presente trabalho foi aplicado pela primeira vez para investigar como três diferentes composições de TCs, unidades de procianidinas (PC) e/ou prodelfinidinas (PD) influenciariam os produtos metabólicos finais dos conteúdos cecais de frangos de corte. Na presença de taninos, houve um significativo decréscimo de glutamato, leucina, lisina, piroglutamato, fenilalanina, prolina e sarcosina. Os extratos de TCs influenciaram significativamente a fermentação, aumentando as concentrações de alguns ácidos graxos, tais como o acetato, butirato e propionato, enquanto em contraste, houve um decréscimo do lactato entre os tratamentos. Este trabalho identificou aspectos estruturais chave que os TCs contêm, tanto as altas proporções molares de PD como as de PC, as quais podem ser úteis para aumentar a utilização de alimentos em frangos de corte.(AU)

In vitro impact of condensed tannins on the caecal metabolites of chickens / Impacto in vitro de taninos condensados nos metabólitos cecais de frangos de corte

Tannins are a diverse group of plant phenolic compounds. Condensed tannins (CTs) represent a major subgroup of tannins and were extracted from tilia (Tilia L.) flowers and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) leaves. These extracts were examined for their effects on the metabolic profile of chicken caeca. By using in vitro, a nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), which was combined with multivariate statistics, the current study was applied for the first time to investigate how three different CT compositions, procyanidins (PC) and/or prodelphinidins (PD) units influenced the metabolic end-products in caecal contents of chickens. In the presence of tannins, glutamate, leucine, lysine, pyroglutamate, phenylalanine, proline, and sarcosine were significantly decreased. CT extracts significantly influenced the fermentation, increasing the concentrations of some fatty acids such as acetate, butyrate, and propionate whereas. In contrast, lactate decreased between the treatments. This study identified the key structural features of CTs that contain either high molar proportions of PD or PC, which might be useful to improve the efficiency of feed utilization in chickens.(AU)

Taninos são um grupo diversificado de compostos fenólicos derivados de plantas. Os taninos condensados (TCs) representam o maior subgrupo de taninos extraídos das flores de tília (Tilia L) e de folhas negras (acácia-bastarda). Estes extratos foram examinados para a avaliação dos seus efeitos no perfil metabólico do ceco de frangos de corte. Com o emprego da ressonância magnética nuclear in vitro (1H-NMR) combinada com estatística multivariada, o presente trabalho foi aplicado pela primeira vez para investigar como três diferentes composições de TCs, unidades de procianidinas (PC) e/ou prodelfinidinas (PD) influenciariam os produtos metabólicos finais dos conteúdos cecais de frangos de corte. Na presença de taninos, houve um significativo decréscimo de glutamato, leucina, lisina, piroglutamato, fenilalanina, prolina e sarcosina. Os extratos de TCs influenciaram significativamente a fermentação, aumentando as concentrações de alguns ácidos graxos, tais como o acetato, butirato e propionato, enquanto em contraste, houve um decréscimo do lactato entre os tratamentos. Este trabalho identificou aspectos estruturais chave que os TCs contêm, tanto as altas proporções molares de PD como as de PC, as quais podem ser úteis para aumentar a utilização de alimentos em frangos de corte.(AU)

Phosphorus accumulation in a southern Brazilian Ultisol amended with pig manure for nine years

This study evaluated P pools after nine years of successive application of either pig slurry (PS) or deep pig litter (DL) in a no-till Ultisol from southern Brazil. The experiment was established in Dec 2002 with the treatments control, application of 90 and 180 kg N ha−1 N as PS and as DL. In Mar 2010, soil samples were taken at six layers up to 30 cm deep. Total organic and inorganic P were assessed by the ignition method, and P compounds classes were evaluated by 31P-NMR spectroscopy. Total soil P increased proportionally with the P amount applied via DL and PS. Only DL application increased soil organic P, mainly at the highest dose and in the uppermost soil layers. The application of high doses of manure to these soils under no-till to meet crop N demands significantly increased P accumulation at the soil surface, especially with DL. This, in turn, increases the risk of contamination of water bodies due to P transfer from soil to rivers via runoff. The ignition method overestimates organic P compared to P-NMR. The highest proportion of organic P estimated by the ignition and P-NMR methods, at surface layers in the control suggests that inorganic P is added to the plots treated, increasing inorganic P and decreasing organic P. Moreover, with no P additions to the control, inorganic soil P is removed by plants, causing an apparent increase in the organic P proportion.

Osmotic demyelination syndrome after primary hypoadrenocorticism crisis management

Background: Primary hypoadrenocorticism is a rare condition resulting from immune-mediated destruction of the adrenal cortices. It can also occur due to necrosis, neoplasms, infarctions, and granulomas. The clinical and laboratory changes are due to deficient secretion of glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, which leads to electrolyte disorders associated with hyponatremia and hyperkalemia. These disorders can cause hypotension, hypovolemia and shock, putting a patient's life at risk if inadequate hydroelectrolytic supplementation and hormone replacement is provided. Nevertheless, rapid sodium chloride supplementation is contraindicated due to the risk of central pontine myelinolysis induction. The present study aims to describe a thalamic osmotic demyelination syndrome after management of a primary hypoadrenocorticism crisis in a 2-year-old, female West White Highland Terrier. Case: The patient had a presumptive diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism already receiving oral prednisolone and gastrointestinal protectants in the last 2 days. After prednisolone dose reduction the dog presented a severe primary hypoadrenocorticism crisis treated with intravenous sodium chloride 0.9% solution along with supportive therapy. Four days after being discharged from the hospital, the patient showed severe neurological impairment and went back to the clinic where a neurological examination revealed mental depression, drowsiness, ambulatory tetraparesis and proprioceptive deficit of the 4 limbs, postural deficits, and cranial nerves with decreased response. Due to these clinical signs, a magnetic resonance imaging was performed. It showed 2 intra-axial circular lesions, symmetrically distributed in both thalamus sides, with approximately 0.8 cm in diameter each without any other anatomical changes on magnetic resonance imaging. The images were compatible with metabolic lesions, suggesting demyelination. Furthermore, liquor analysis did not show relevant abnormalities, except for a slight increase in density and pH at the upper limit of the reference range. After treatment, the patient had a good neurological evolution secondary to standard primary hypoadrenocorticism treatment, without sequelae. Discussion: In the present case report, primary hypoadrenocorticism gastrointestinal signs seemed to be triggered by a food indiscretion episode, not responsive to the symptomatic therapies employed. The patient´s breed and age (young West White Highland Terrier bitch) is in accordance with the demographic profile of patients affected by the disease, where young females are frequently more affected. Regarding the probable thalamic osmotic demyelination syndrome documented in this case, is important to notice that myelinolysis or demyelination is an exceedingly rare noninflammatory neurological disorder, initially called central pontine myelinolysis, which can occur after rapid correction of hyponatremia. It has already been observed in dogs after correction of hyponatremia of different origins, including hypoadrenocorticism and parasitic gastrointestinal disorders. Currently, the terms "osmotic myelinolysis" or "osmotic demyelination syndrome" are considered more suitable when compared to the term "central pontine myelinolysis" since it has been demonstrated in dogs and humans the occurrence of demyelination secondary to the rapid correction of hyponatremia in distinct regions of the central nervous system including pons, basal nuclei, striatum, thalamus, cortex, hypoppocampus, and cerebelum. The present case report emphasizes the difficulties for hormonal confirmation of primary hypoadrenocorticism in a patient already on corticosteroid treatment, as well as proposes that the current term osmotic demyelination syndrome replace the term "central pontine myelinolysis" in veterinary literature related to the management of hypoadrenocorticism crisis.

Phosphorus accumulation in a southern Brazilian Ultisol amended with pig manure for nine years

This study evaluated P pools after nine years of successive application of either pig slurry (PS) or deep pig litter (DL) in a no-till Ultisol from southern Brazil. The experiment was established in Dec 2002 with the treatments control, application of 90 and 180 kg N ha−1 N as PS and as DL. In Mar 2010, soil samples were taken at six layers up to 30 cm deep. Total organic and inorganic P were assessed by the ignition method, and P compounds classes were evaluated by 31P-NMR spectroscopy. Total soil P increased proportionally with the P amount applied via DL and PS. Only DL application increased soil organic P, mainly at the highest dose and in the uppermost soil layers. The application of high doses of manure to these soils under no-till to meet crop N demands significantly increased P accumulation at the soil surface, especially with DL. This, in turn, increases the risk of contamination of water bodies due to P transfer from soil to rivers via runoff. The ignition method overestimates organic P compared to P-NMR. The highest proportion of organic P estimated by the ignition and P-NMR methods, at surface layers in the control suggests that inorganic P is added to the plots treated, increasing inorganic P and decreasing organic P. Moreover, with no P additions to the control, inorganic soil P is removed by plants, causing an apparent increase in the organic P proportion.(AU)

Carboxymethyl chitosan hydrogel formulations enhance the healing process in experimental partial-thickness (second-degree) burn wound healing

ABSTRACT Purpose This study aimed to elaborate a hydrogel constituted by carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC), hyaluronic acid (HA) and silver (Ag) and to evaluate its healing effect on partial-thickness burn wounds experimentally induced in rats. Methods CMC was obtained by chitosan reacting with monochloroacetic acid. The carboxymethylation was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Scanning electron microscopy was used to determine the morphologicalcharacteristics of chitosan and CMC. After the experimental burn wound induction, the animals (n = 126) were treated with different CMC formulations, had their occlusive dressings changed daily and were followed through 7, 14 and 30 days. Morphometric, macroscopic and microscopic aspects and collagen quantification were evaluated. Results Significative wound contraction, granulation tissue formation, inflammatory infiltration and collagen fibers deposit throughout different phases of the healing process were observed in the CMC hydrogels treated groups. Conclusions The results showed that, in the initial phase of the healing process, the most adequate product was the CMC/HA/Ag association, while in the other phases the CMC/HA association was the best one to promote the healing of burn wounds.

Carboxymethyl chitosan hydrogel formulations enhance the healing process in experimental partial-thickness (second-degree) burn wound healing

Purpose: This study aimed to elaborate a hydrogel constituted by carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC), hyaluronic acid (HA) and silver (Ag) and to evaluate its healing effect on partial-thickness burn wounds experimentally induced in rats. Methods: CMC was obtained by chitosan reacting with monochloroacetic acid. The carboxymethylation was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Scanning electron microscopy was used to determine the morphological characteristics of chitosan and CMC. After the experimental burn wound induction, the animals (n = 126) were treated with different CMC formulations, had their occlusive dressings changed daily and were followed through 7, 14 and 30 days. Morphometric, macroscopic and microscopic aspects and collagen quantification were evaluated. Results: Significative wound contraction, granulation tissue formation, inflammatory infiltration and collagen fibers deposit throughout different phases of the healing process were observed in the CMC hydrogels treated groups. Conclusion: The results showed that, in the initial phase of the healing process, the most adequate product was the CMC/HA/Ag association, while in the other phases the CMC/HA association was the best one to promote the healing of burn wounds.(AU)

Plasma metabolite changes in anestrous dairy cows with negative energy balance identified using 1H NMR technology / [Alterações do metabólito plasmático em vacas leiteiras com balanço energético negativo identificado usando a tecnologia 1H NMR]

The objective of the present study was to investigate the different plasma metabolites between anestrus and estrus postpartum dairy cows and to provide a theoretical basis for prevention of anestrus in dairy farm cows. In the experiment, one hundred and sixty-seven Holstein dairy cows were selected with similar age and parity. According to the concentration of ß-hydroxybutyric acid, non-esterified fatty acids and glucose in plasma during 14 to 21 days in milk, all dairy cows were determined as having a status of energy balance. According to the results of clinical symptom, rectal and B ultrasound examination at 60 to 90 days postpartum, these cows were divided into twenty estrus and twenty-four anestrus group, other dairy cows were removed. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance technology was utilized to detect the plasma metabolites changes and screen different plasma metabolites between anestrus and estrus cows. Ten different metabolites including alanine, glutamic acid, asparagine, creatine, choline, phosphocholine, glycerophosphocholine, low-density lipoprotein, and very-low-density lipoprotein were significantly decreased in anestrous cows compared with estrous cows. Metabolic pathway analyses indicated that differential metabolites were primarily involved in amino acid and glycerophospholipid metabolism. These metabolites and their enrichment pathways indicate that reduced steroid hormone synthesis precursors result in lower levels of estradiol and progesterone and cause anestrus in negative energy balance. These data provide a better understanding of the changes that may affect estrus of postpartum dairy cows at NEB status and lay the ground for further research.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar os diferentes metabolitos do plasma entre o cio e o cio pós-parto de vacas leiteiras e fornecer uma base teórica para a prevenção do cio de vacas em fazendas de leite. No experimento, foram selecionadas 127 vacas leiteiras Holstein com idade e paridade similares. De acordo com a concentração de ß- ácido hidroxibutírico, ácidos graxos não esterificados e glicose no plasma entre 14 e 21 dias no leite, todas as vacas leiteiras foram determinadas em estado de equilíbrio energético. De acordo com os resultados dos sintomas clínicos, do exame de ultra-som retal e B aos 60 a 90 dias pós-parto, estas vacas foram divididas em vinte cios e vinte e quatro grupos de cio, outras vacas leiteiras foram removidas. A tecnologia de ressonância magnética nuclear 1H foi utilizada para detectar as alterações dos metabólitos plasmáticos e para triar diferentes metabólitos plasmáticos entre as vacas do cio e do cio. Dez diferentes metabólitos incluindo alanina, ácido glutâmico, asparagina, creatina, colina, fosfocholina, glicerofosfocolina, lipoproteína de baixa densidade e lipoproteína de muito baixa densidade foram significativamente diminuídos nas vacas antróficas em comparação com as vacas estro. As análises da via metabólica indicaram que os metabólitos diferenciais estavam principalmente envolvidos no metabolismo de aminoácidos e glicerofosfolipídios. Estes metabólitos e suas vias de enriquecimento indicam que a redução dos precursores da síntese de hormônios esteróides resulta em níveis mais baixos de estradiol e progesterona e causa anestros no balanço energético negativo. Estes dados fornecem uma melhor compreensão das mudanças que podem afetar o cio das vacas leiteiras pós-parto no estado de NEB e preparam o terreno para mais pesquisas.(AU)

Is there something new regarding triceps brachii muscle insertion?

Purpose: Previous studies have questioned whether the triceps brachii muscle tendon (TBMT) has a double or single insertion on the ulna. Aiming to provide an answer, we describe the anatomy of the TBMT and review a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) series of the elbow. Methods: Forty-one elbows were dissected to assess the details of the triceps brachii insertion. Elbow plastination slices were analyzed to determine whether there was a space on the TBMT. Magnetic resonance imaging from the records of the authors were also obtained to demonstrate the appearance of the pre-tricipital space on MRI. Results: A virtual space on the medial aspect near the TBTM insertion site in the olecranon was consistently found on anatomic dissections. It was a distal pre-tricipital space. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated the appearance of the pre-tricipital space on MRI, and its extension was measured longitudinally either in elbow flexion or extension. There was no statistically significant difference between the measurements of this space in the right and left elbows or between flexion and extension (p > 0.05). The coefficient of variation was 10% for all measurements. Conclusion: Knowledge of this structure may be essential to avoid incorrect diagnosis and unnecessary therapeutic interventions.(AU)

Inflammatory lesions and brain tumors: is it possible to differentiate them based on texture features in magnetic resonance imaging?

Neuroimaging strategies are essential to locate, to elucidate the etiology, and to the follow up of brain disease patients. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides good cerebral soft-tissue contrast detection and diagnostic sensitivity. Inflammatory lesions and tumors are common brain diseases that may present a similar pattern of a cerebral ring enhancing lesion on MRI, and non-enhancing core (which may reflect cystic components or necrosis) leading to misdiagnosis. Texture analysis (TA) and machine learning approaches are computer-aided diagnostic tools that can be used to assist radiologists in such decisions. Methods: In this study, we combined texture features with machine learning (ML) methods aiming to differentiate brain tumors from inflammatory lesions in magnetic resonance imaging. Retrospective examination of 67 patients, with a pattern of a cerebral ring enhancing lesion, 30 with inflammatory, and 37 with tumoral lesions were selected. Three different MRI sequences and textural features were extracted using gray level co-occurrence matrix and gray level run length. All diagnoses were confirmed by histopathology, laboratorial analysis or MRI. Results: The features extracted were processed for the application of ML methods that performed the classification. T1-weighted images proved to be the best sequence for classification, in which the differentiation between inflammatory and tumoral lesions presented high accuracy (0.827), area under ROC curve (0.906), precision (0.837), and recall (0.912). Conclusion: The algorithm obtained textures capable of differentiating brain tumors from inflammatory lesions, on T1-weghted images without contrast medium using the Random Forest machine learning classifier.(AU)

Inflammatory lesions and brain tumors: is it possible to differentiate them based on texture features in magnetic resonance imaging?

Neuroimaging strategies are essential to locate, to elucidate the etiology, and to the follow up of brain disease patients. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides good cerebral soft-tissue contrast detection and diagnostic sensitivity. Inflammatory lesions and tumors are common brain diseases that may present a similar pattern of a cerebral ring enhancing lesion on MRI, and non-enhancing core (which may reflect cystic components or necrosis) leading to misdiagnosis. Texture analysis (TA) and machine learning approaches are computer-aided diagnostic tools that can be used to assist radiologists in such decisions. Methods: In this study, we combined texture features with machine learning (ML) methods aiming to differentiate brain tumors from inflammatory lesions in magnetic resonance imaging. Retrospective examination of 67 patients, with a pattern of a cerebral ring enhancing lesion, 30 with inflammatory, and 37 with tumoral lesions were selected. Three different MRI sequences and textural features were extracted using gray level co-occurrence matrix and gray level run length. All diagnoses were confirmed by histopathology, laboratorial analysis or MRI. Results: The features extracted were processed for the application of ML methods that performed the classification. T1-weighted images proved to be the best sequence for classification, in which the differentiation between inflammatory and tumoral lesions presented high accuracy (0.827), area under ROC curve (0.906), precision (0.837), and recall (0.912). Conclusion: The algorithm obtained textures capable of differentiating brain tumors from inflammatory lesions, on T1-weghted images without contrast medium using the Random Forest machine learning classifier.(AU)

Spinal cord meningioma in a Boxer breed dog

Meningiomas are one of the most common primary tumors of the canine central nervous system. They usually grow within the cranial cavity but occasionally they are found in the spinal cord. A case of a Boxer breed with a spinal cord transitional meningioma is reported. Two years history presenting progressive neurological signs is described. The MRI examination revealed a focal, intradural extramedullary lesion within the right side of the spinal canal, compromising the C1and C2 vertebral segments. Cytoreductive surgery with a dorsolateral laminectomy approach was performed to decompressthe spinal cord and to obtain a definitive diagnosis. Histopathological studies diagnosed a grade I transitional meningioma. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence analysis detected positive cells to vimentin (VIM), pan-cytokeratin (pCk),neuron-specific enolase (NSE), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and doublecortin (DXC). Although apparently benign, positivity to pCK and DXC suggest a possible transition into a malignant tumor. Although variations in the behavior, histology and the immunoreactive profile of these tumors are reported, the latter constitutes a good indicator for the diagnosis of the patient.

Spinal cord meningioma in a Boxer breed dog

Meningiomas are one of the most common primary tumors of the canine central nervous system. They usually grow within the cranial cavity but occasionally they are found in the spinal cord. A case of a Boxer breed with a spinal cord transitional meningioma is reported. Two years history presenting progressive neurological signs is described. The MRI examination revealed a focal, intradural extramedullary lesion within the right side of the spinal canal, compromising the C1and C2 vertebral segments. Cytoreductive surgery with a dorsolateral laminectomy approach was performed to decompressthe spinal cord and to obtain a definitive diagnosis. Histopathological studies diagnosed a grade I transitional meningioma. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence analysis detected positive cells to vimentin (VIM), pan-cytokeratin (pCk),neuron-specific enolase (NSE), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and doublecortin (DXC). Although apparently benign, positivity to pCK and DXC suggest a possible transition into a malignant tumor. Although variations in the behavior, histology and the immunoreactive profile of these tumors are reported, the latter constitutes a good indicator for the diagnosis of the patient.(AU)