Gastroesophageal foreign bodies in dogs - endoscopy and surgical removal

Background: Gastroesophageal foreign bodies (GFD) are commonly diagnosed in dogs and are considered an endoscopic emergency that, although not resulting in serious clinical sequelae or mortality, can compromise the health and well-being of the patient. The use of the digestive endoscopy for the diagnosis and treatment of GFD can be a valuable and viable alternative. There are cases of GFD in dogs for which the indicated treatment is surgery, which can be performed using minimally invasive or conventional techniques, associated or not with flexible endoscopy. The objective of this work is to describe 16 cases of GFD removal in dogs demonstrating the efficiency of upper digestive endoscopy. Cases: Of the 16 GFD cases, 63% (10/16) were male and 37% (6/16) female. Most aged under 1 year (63%), puppies (5/16) and juveniles (5/16). The patient with the lowest body weight was a miniature pinscher weighing 0.8 kg (Case 14) and the heaviest was an American Pit Bull Terrier weighing 28 kg (Case 11), the mean body weight of patients diagnosed with GFD was 10.2 ± 6.7 kg. Small and medium breeds were more affected, 44.7% (7/16) and 44.7% (7/16), respectively, and large breeds (Golden Retrievier and Bull Terrier), from cases 1 and 4, the least affected, 12.6% (2/16) of the cases. The 16 patients underwent a 12 h food fast and a 4 h water fast, as gastrointestinal emptying in these cases of GFD can be influenced by these foreign bodies. All underwent general inhalation anesthesia with monitoring of physiological parameters (temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and blood pressure) before, during and after EGD, being positioned in left lateral decubitus. The 16 canine patients with suspected GFD underwent EGD for diagnostic confirmation and removal of foreign bodies. Five esophageal FB were diagnosed, 31% (5/16), and 11 gastric FB, 69% (11/16). The most frequently diagnosed foreign bodies were bone and tissue, 37.5% (6/16) and 31% (5/16). Other foreign bodies were materials such as plastics, metals, rubber, foam and stone. Of the 16 cases of GFD, EGD efficiently treated 88% (14/16) without the need for hospitalization, with only supportive treatment for the remission of complications caused by the presence of foreign bodies in the gastroesophageal tract. The main complications related to the presence of GFD were esophagitis in 25% (4/16) of cases, gastritis in 38% (6/16) and both alterations in 13% (2/16). Discussion: In this work, we can observe that more than a third of the clinical cases of treated dogs were diagnosed with GFD, demonstrating that these cases are common in the veterinary clinic. Most of these animals were males less than 1 year old. The improvement of learning in this category can lead these animals to exacerbated oral exploration of new objects. Most FBs were found in the stomach because they were of adequate size, consistency and shape for their passage through the esophagus, whereas esophageal FBs were all bone fragments of rigid consistency with diameters and sizes larger than the esophageal lumen. The interval between the ingestion of the object and the veterinary care can be decisive for the removal of the FB in the esophagus or stomach. Most gastric FBs removed were fabrics and plastics, flexible objects that can pass through the esophageal lumen more easily. Removal of GFD by endoscopy was performed with a high success rate, with only 2 cases being resolved by esophagostomy and gastrotomy. Flexible endoscopy proved to be an efficient technique for removing treated GFD, which can help remove FB during esophagotomy and be associated with rigid endoscopy. Patients recovered quickly and without complications, but it is important to emphasize that inadequate maneuvers and conducts can determine other outcomes. The use of endoscopy for GFD removal needs to be more popularized, as it can ensure better results for dogs treated with GFD.

Bronchopneumonia by Streptococcus equi subsp zooepidemicus in a horse with inhalation of pine branch of Araucaria angustifolia / Broncopneumonia por Streptococcus equi subsp zooepidemicus em um equino com inalação de grimpa de Araucaria angustifolia

Respiratory problems due to tracheobronchial foreign bodies (FBs) are unusual in horses; although equines kept in pastures eventually inhale FBs, as conifer twigs of Araucaria angustifolia. A 1,5-year-old Criolle foal was presented with hemoptysis, dyspnea, restlessness and fever (40.9 ºC rectal temperature). Complete blood count showed intense neutropenia, monocytosis, thrombocytopenia and hypoproteinemia. Treatment was carried out but no clinical improvement was observed. At the post-mortem examination, marked amount of dark red liquid was observed in the thoracic cavity (hemothorax). The lung parenchyma was diffusely consolidated, predominantly in the cranioventral area, associated with mild pleural fibrin deposition. The right primary bronchus was obliterated by a Araucaria angustifolia pine branch measuring 18 cm in length, with adjacent darkened areas (lung consolidation). Microscopically, there was diffuse necrosis with severe hemorrhage in the lungs, associated with marked neutrophilic inflammatory infiltrate, numerous coccoid bacterial aggregates, and fibrinous pleuritis. Additionally, there was diffuse alveolar edema and multifocal thrombosis. Lung fragments were submitted for bacterial culture and mixed bacterial growth was observed with a predominance of Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus. Inhalation of branches is not commonly reported in horses, but it must be included in the differential diagnoses of pneumonia, and attention should be taken when allowing horses to graze in areas where the plant occurs.

Problemas respiratórios devido a corpos estranhos (CEs) traqueobrônquicos são incomuns em equinos, embora cavalos em pastagem possam eventualmente aspirar CEs, como galhos de Araucaria angustifolia. Um potro Crioulo, 1,5 anos, apresentou hemoptise, dispneia, inquietação e temperatura retal de 40,9 ºC. O hemograma revelou intensa neutropenia, monocitose, trombocitopenia e hipoproteinemia. O tratamento foi realizado, mas sem sucesso. Na cavidade torácica, foi observada grande quantidade de líquido avermelhado livre (hemotórax). Os pulmões estavam difusamente consolidados, predominantemente cranioventral e com discreta deposição de fibrina sobre a superfície pleural. O brônquio principal direito estava obliterado por um ramo de pinheiro de Araucaria angustifolia com 18 cm de comprimento. Microscopicamente, notou-se necrose de coagulação pulmonar difusa com hemorragia severa, infiltrado inflamatório neutrofílico marcado, numerosos agregados bacterianos cocoides e pleurite fibrinosa. Fragmentos de pulmão foram submetidos ao isolamento bacteriológico e abundante crescimento misto com predominância de Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus foi observado. A inalação de grimpas de pinheiro não é comumente relatada em equinos, mas deve ser incluída nos diagnósticos diferenciais de pneumonia e deve-se ter atenção ao introduzir cavalos no campo com a presença da planta.

Effect of 20 mg fluorogestone acetate (FGA) sponges on reproductive parameters of dairy ovine breeds in Southern Italy

Background: Intravaginal devices containing progestins are widely used for oestrus synchronization in sheep. Progestins give economic benefits to farmers but may have some limitations and the efficacy strictly depends on farm management. There are different devices, with different molecules (progesterone, medroxyprogesterone acetate, fluorogestone acetate), different dosages and long (12-14 days) and short-term (5-7 days) protocols. Experimental studies often include a limited number of animals and are held at different latitudes and with different system of management. To our knowledge, there are few reports in the literature on field application of the recently licensed 20 mg fluorogestone acetate (FGA) sponges in large ewe flocks, excluding the registration trials. Materials, Methods & Results: This study was designed to evaluate oestrous synchronization in 2 different breeds. A total of 1100 Lacaune (L) and 618 Sarda (S) were assigned to 8 groups, comparing multiparous (M) and nulliparous (N) and those synchronized in November (n) and May (m). The groups were: LMm (n. 556), LNm (n. 180), SMm (n. 70), SNm (n. 32), LMn (n. 242), LNn (n. 222), SMn (n. 440) e SNn (n. 76). The intravaginal sponge was inserted for 14 days. At sponge withdrawal, eCG (400 IU, IM) was injected, and rams were joined into flocks 30 h later with a male/female ratio of 1:8. Transrectal ultrasonography was performed for pregnancy diagnosis after 30 days. Fertility parameters such as oestrus (OR), pregnancy (PR), lambing rates (LR) and prolificacy were calculated. Fisher exact test was used to compare parameters of each group with the corresponding and significance was set at P < 0.01. The use of intravaginal sponges in this study was easily performed in all animals. In nulliparous groups, digital insertion of the sponge, instead of the applicator, was preferred to avoid discomfort. Sponge loss was observed in 2% of treated ewes. At the removal of the sponge, mild vaginal contamination was observed in 90% of the ewes. Ultrasound finding of embryo resorption, pseudopregnancy and pyometra were found in rates under 2%. The loss of pregnancy ranged from 0 to 3.6% without significant differences among groups. The SMn group showed the best performances (0.91 OR, 0.88 PR, 0.85 LR), significantly higher than the other groups. Prolificacy was maximum in the LMn (1.68) and minimum in the SNm group (1.06), without significant differences among groups. Discussion: The 14-day regimen based on 20 mg FGA-releasing intravaginal devices is an easy and satisfactory synchronization regimen to improve the productivity and the fertility of sheep farm, and this can be managed and optimized in different breeding conditions. In this study, Sarda breed shows a good adaption to the environment with adult ewes giving the best results in reproductive season. However young Sarda ewes were less productive especially in non-breading season. Lacaune showed good reproductive potential, young and adult ewes responded to progestins in reproductive and non-reproductive season. It was confirmed that the reproductive performance is affected by season, age, and breed. This study encourages the breeding of indigenous breeds by implementing the management with modern technologies. The imported highly productive breeds, if well managed, can give a production less influenced by seasonal variables and age.

Potentially harmful materials in the feces of wild ring-tailed coatis (Nasua nasua) and health implications / Materiais potencialmente nocivos encontrados nas fezes de quatis (Nasua nasua) selvagens e implicações para a saúde

In ecological parks, the proximity to tourist activities facilitates the exploration of garbage by coatis, with possible serious consequences for the animals health . We described the contents of wild coatis feces from three ecological parks. After analyzing 62 samples, fragments of plants and animals were identified in all feces. In the feces of two parks, seeds were present between 36.4% and 48.6% of the samples. Arthropod fragments were identified in 100% of the samples from two parks, but only 87.3% in a third park. Scales, bones or bird feathers were present in some samples. Undigested material of industrial origin was detected in 34.3% to 54.5% of the samples, such as fragments of paper, string, plastic, aluminum, latex and glass. Results are in line with other studies on the diet of wild coatis, but the intake of foreign bodies, potentially harmful to health, is described for the first time. Clinical problems resulting from ingesting waste can be dental fractures, mucosal erosions, intestinal perforation, peritonitis, impaction, diarrhea, weight loss, intoxication and infections. Coatis in the three parks are at risk of health, and actions are needed to avoid clinical and potentially fatal problems. Four actions are recommended to avoid ingesting foreign bodies: increasing the environmental education of visitors; improving the storage of waste generated in parks; periodically monitor the health of coatis, in order to make interventions when possible; make a permanent program to study the ecology of species in the three parks.

Em parques ecológicos, a proximidade com atividades turísticas facilita a exploração do lixo por quatis (Nasua nasua), com possíveis consequências graves para saúde dos animais. Descrevemos o conteúdo de fezes de quatis selvagens de três parques ecológicos. Após análise de 62 amostras, fragmentos de plantas e animais foram identificados em todas as fezes. Nas fezes de dois parques, as sementes estiveram presentes entre 36,4% e 48,6% das amostras. Foram identificados fragmentos de artrópodes em 100% das amostras de dois parques, mas apenas 87,3% em um terceiro parque. Escamas, ossos ou penas de pássaros estavam presentes em algumas amostras. Detectou-se material não digerido de origem industrial em 34,3% a 54,5% das amostras, como fragmentos de papel, barbante, plástico, alumínio, látex e vidro. Os resultados estão de acordo com outros estudos sobre a dieta de quatis selvagens, mas a ingestão de corpos estranhos, potencialmente prejudicial à saúde, é descrito pela primeira vez. Os problemas clínicos decorrentes da ingestão de lixo podem ser fraturas dentais, erosões de mucosas, perfuração intestinal, peritonite, impactação, diarreia, emagrecimento, intoxicação e infecções. Os quatis nos três parques estão com a saúde em risco, sendo necessárias ações para evitar problemas clínicos e potencialmente fatais. Quatro ações são recomendadas para evitar a ingestão de corpos estranhos: aumentar a educação ambiental dos visitantes; melhorar o armazenamento dos resíduos gerados nos parques; monitorar periodicamente a saúde dos quatis, de forma a fazer intervenções quando possível; fazer um programa permanente de estudo da ecologia das espécies nos três parques.

Massa esofágica em cárdia de um cão / Esophageal mass in cardia of a dog

O sistema digestório é responsável pela quebra dos alimentos em menores partes, a fim de gerar energia, crescimento e renovação celular. É constituído de um tubo digestivo formado por boca, esôfago, estômago, alças intestinais, reto e ânus; além dos órgãos anexos. O esôfago dá continuidade ao canal alimentar da faringe ao estômago. O câncer de esôfago, em cães e gatos, ocorre raramente, representando cerca de menos de 0,5% de todos os tumores nessas espécies. O maior fator de risco para os tumores esofágicos em cães está relacionado com as áreas endêmicas do nematódeo Spirocerca lupi, que parasita o cão. Diante do exposto, neste trabalho, relata-se o caso de um cão da raça Pit Bull, com dez meses de idade, que deu entrada no Hospital Veterinário Prof. Mário Dias Teixeira com histórico de apatia, tosse, engasgo e alotriofagia. Foram solicitados exames de hemograma, bioquímica sérica, PCR, radiografia, ultrassonografia e endoscopia digestiva alta. Os exames hematológicos indicaram alterações sistêmicas e os exames de imagem apontaram alterações no trato gastrointestinal, sendo que o exame endoscópico apontou a presença de uma massa em região ventral da mucosa esofágica.

The digestive system is responsible for breaking food into smaller pieces to generate energy, growth, and cell renewal. It consists of a digestive tube formed by mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestinal loops, rectum, and anus, as well as attached organs. The esophagus continues the alimentary canal from the pharynx to the stomach. Esophageal cancer in dogs and cats is rare, accounting for less than 0.5% of all tumors in these species. The major risk factor for esophageal tumors in dogs is related to endemic areas of the nematode Spirocerca lupi that parasitizes the dog. This work presents the case of a 10-month-old Pit Bull dog that was admitted at the Veterinary Hospital Prof. Mário Dias Teixeira with a history of apathy, cough, choking, and allotriophagia. Hemogram, serum biochemistry tests, PCR, radiography, ultrasonography, and upper digestive endoscopy were requested. The hematological exams indicated systemic alterations and the imaging exams presented alterations in the gastrointestinal tract, while the endoscopic exam showed the presence of a mass in the ventral region of the esophageal mucosa.

Influence of eCG and reproductive management in the resynchronization of ovulation in dairy goats

Resynchronization protocols have been proposed as a way of shortening females' unproductive time in the flock, with good results in cattle and sheep. In goats, initial studies have shown that a second progestogen device inserted before luteolysis and pregnancy diagnosis does not interfere with the corpus luteum lifespan or functionality. This study aimed to evaluate the follicular growth, ovulation pattern and pregnancy rate after insertion of a second and new progestogen device for resynchronizing, with or without equine Chorionic Gonadotrophin (eCG), submitted to natural mating (NM) or artificial insemination (AI) to propose a viable resynchronization protocol for dairy goats. A total of 38 multiparous Saanen goats underwent a short-term progesterone protocol [six days exposed to medroxyprogesterone acetate (MAP) intravaginal sponges + 200 IU eCG and 0.12 mg of cloprostenol sodium on the 5th day + 0.025 mg of lecirelin 34 hours after sponge withdrawal] and, on day 16th after the ovulation, received a new MAP device which was retained until day 21. At this moment females were split into four groups: GeCG+NM ­ 100 IU eCG with NM; GSal+NM ­ saline solution with NM; GeCG+AI ­ 100 IU eCG with AI; and GSal+AI ­ saline solution with AI. Ultrasound scans were performed every 12 h from sponge withdrawal (day 21) until 108 h after sponge withdrawal (day 25) for follicular dynamics evaluation, at 240 h (day 31) for assessing the presence of active corpus luteum, and on day 60 for pregnancy diagnosis. No differences were found regarding ovulation time, synchronization and follicle size. However, GeCG+NM presented a greater estrus manifestation rate (100%) and pregnancy rate (62.5%) when compared to GSal+AI. In conclusion, resynchronization protocols in dairy goats may present satisfactory results.(AU)

In vitro and in vivo genotoxicity and cytotoxicity analysis of protein extract from Aplysina fulva sponges

This study evaluated the physicochemical and morphological properties of a marine sponge protein extract (PE) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), analysis of mass loss and pH and in vitro and in vivo. Scanning electron microscopy showed that PE fibers present a granular aspect and irregular structure and the element carbon followed by oxygen was detected in the EDS analysis. Moreover, a 29% of mass loss was observed after 14 days and the pH slightly modified after 14 days. Cell viability of fibroblast cells (L929) of control and PE at a concentration of 25% demonstrated higher values compared to the groups. Osteoblast cell viability of PE at 25 and 50% was significantly higher. Comet assay on day 1 showed higher values for PE at 25%. In addition, in vivo experiments demonstrated that in the treated animals, the bone defects were filled with biomaterial particles, granulation tissue and some areas of newly formed bone. Furthermore, similar immunoexpression of Runx-2 and Cox-2 was observed. Taken together, all results suggest that PE is biocompatible, present non-citotoxicity in the in vitro studies (at the lower concentration) and in the in vivo studies and it can be considered as an alternative source of collagen for tissue engineering proposals.

In vitro and in vivo genotoxicity and cytotoxicity analysis of protein extract from Aplysina fulva sponges

This study evaluated the physicochemical and morphological properties of a marine sponge protein extract (PE) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), analysis of mass loss and pH and in vitro and in vivo. Scanning electron microscopy showed that PE fibers present a granular aspect and irregular structure and the element carbon followed by oxygen was detected in the EDS analysis. Moreover, a 29% of mass loss was observed after 14 days and the pH slightly modified after 14 days. Cell viability of fibroblast cells (L929) of control and PE at a concentration of 25% demonstrated higher values compared to the groups. Osteoblast cell viability of PE at 25 and 50% was significantly higher. Comet assay on day 1 showed higher values for PE at 25%. In addition, in vivo experiments demonstrated that in the treated animals, the bone defects were filled with biomaterial particles, granulation tissue and some areas of newly formed bone. Furthermore, similar immunoexpression of Runx-2 and Cox-2 was observed. Taken together, all results suggest that PE is biocompatible, present non-citotoxicity in the in vitro studies (at the lower concentration) and in the in vivo studies and it can be considered as an alternative source of collagen for tissue engineering proposals.(AU)

Retirada de corpo estranho (dispositivo impregnado com progesterona) da cavidade abdominal de novilha da raça Jersey ­ relato de caso / Removal of a foreign body (progesterone impregnated device) from the abdominal cavity of a Jersey heifer ­ a case report / Extracción de cuerpo extraño (dispositivo impregnado con progesterona) de la cavidad abdominal de novilla raza Jersey - reporte de caso

A inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF) é uma biotécnica com inúmeras vantagens para a produção de bovinos. Para a realização da IATF, as fêmeas bovinas devem receber um protocolo farmacológico que induz a ovulação de forma sincronizada. Esse protocolo inicia com a inserção de um dispositivo impregnado com progesterona que deve permanecer no fundo vaginal da fêmea por tempo determinado. O presente relato tem por objetivo descrever a remoção de um implante impregnado com progesterona que foi encontrado na cavidade abdominal de uma novilha. Durante um atendimento reprodutivo de rotina em uma propriedade rural, uma novilha da raça Jersey, recém-adquirida, com histórico de ter sido submetida à IATF, foi avaliada para diagnóstico de gestação. No exame a novilha não estava gestante e apresentava um cisto folicular ovariano. A novilha foi submetida novamente à IATF em que foi inserido e removido um implante, com isso o cisto regrediu e ao inseminar a novilha não foi possível passar a cérvix com o aplicador. Vinte dias após a inseminação a novilha manifestou estro e ao ser avaliada para nova inseminação, foi identificado um implante solto na cavidade abdominal da novilha. Foi realizada uma laparotomia pelo flanco esquerdo e o implante foi removido. Após a recuperação da cirurgia a novilha foi inseminada e novamente e ficou gestante. Os protocolos de IATF devem ser realizados por profissionais capacitados para evitar problemas como a presente situação em que um implante foi encontrado na cavidade abdominal de uma novilha.(AU)

The fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) is a biotechnique with numerous advantages for cattle production. In order to perform the FTAI, the cows must receive a pharmacological protocol to induce ovulation in a synchronized way. This protocol begins with the insertion of a device impregnated with progesterone that must remain in the vaginal fundus of the cow for a specific period of time. This report aims at describing the removal of a progesterone impregnated implant that was found in the abdominal cavity of a heifer. During a routine reproductive service in a rural property, a recently acquired Jersey heifer, with history of having been submitted to FTAI, was evaluated for pregnancy diagnosis. At the exam, it was observed that the heifer was not pregnant and presented an ovarian follicular cyst. The heifer was then submitted to FTAI again, where an implant was inserted and removed. This made the cyst to recede, and upon subsequent insemination, the applicator was not able to pass the cervix. Twenty days after insemination, the heifer was in estrus and when it was evaluated for insemination, a loose implant was identified in the abdominal cavity of the heifer. A laparotomy was performed through the left flank and the implant was removed. After recovery from the surgery, the heifer was inseminated again and became pregnant. The FTAI protocols should only be carried out by trained professionals to avoid problems such as the one presented herein, where an implant was found in the abdominal cavity of a heifer.(AU)

La inseminación artificial a tiempo fijo (FTAI) es una biotécnica con numerosas ventajas para la producción de ganado. Para realizar FTAI, las hembras bovinas deben recibir un protocolo farmacológico que induzca la ovulación de forma sincronizada. Este protocolo comienza con la inserción de un dispositivo impregnado con progesterona que debe permanecer en el fondo vaginal de la hembra durante un tiempo específico. Este informe tiene como objetivo describir la extracción de un implante impregnado de progesterona que se encontró en la cavidad abdominal de una novilla. Durante la atención reproductiva de rutina en una propiedad rural, se evaluó el diagnóstico de preñez de una novilla de Jersey recién adquirida con antecedentes de someterse a FTAI. En el examen, la novilla no estaba embarazada y tenía un quiste folicular ovárico. La novilla fue nuevamente sometida a FTAI, en la cual se insertó y removió un implante, con esto el quiste retrocedió y al inseminar a la novilla no fue posible pasar el cérvix con el aplicador. Veinte días después de la inseminación, la vaquilla manifestó estro y cuando se evaluó para una nueva inseminación, se identificó un implante suelto en la cavidad abdominal de la vaquilla. Se realizó una laparotomía a través del flanco izquierdo y se extrajo el implante. Después de recuperarse de la cirugía, la novilla fue inseminada y nuevamente quedó embarazada. Los protocolos FTAI deben ser realizados por profesionales capacitados para evitar problemas como la situación actual donde se encontró un implante en la cavidad abdominal de una novilla.(AU)

Estrutura óssea exógena traqueal em um gato / Exogenous tracheal bone structure in a cat

Background: Acute dyspnea is a clinical emergency with a presentation similar to several etiologies. Cats are usually referred with complaints of anorexia, abdominal breathing, cyanosis, and open mouth breathing, and veterinarians should stabilize the animals as soon as possible. The incidence of aspiration of foreign bodies is low, particularly in this species. The diagnosis consists of observing the foreign structure in the lumen of the trachea, commonly performed using radiography or bronchoscopy. This report describes a case of a feline with a tracheal foreign body, with a detailed description of the clinical findings and successful treatment. Case: A 10-year-old female feline exhibited severe dyspnea and cyanosis. During the anamnesis, the owner stated that the clinical signs suddenly presented one day prior, after the animal ingested a piece of fish. Physical examination revealed changes in pulmonary auscultation, which was bilaterally muffled, and intense respiratory distress, as observed by the evident signs of exhaustion (sternal decubitus, reduced muscle tone), in addition to cyanotic mucous membranes. The animal was intubated and maintained under anesthesia with propofol infusion and respiratory support (ambu) for 1 h, during which complementary examinations were performed. Chest radiography showed the presence of a radiopaque structure (approximately 0.5 cm) in the tracheal region. Thus, we decided to remove the structure using bronchoscopy. The foreign body was located above the main bronchial bifurcation and was removed. There was an improvement in oxygenation after 20 min of maintenance of ventilatory support, followed by weaning of the animal's successful respiratory support. Antibiotic therapy and analgesia were prescribed at home, and the animal exhibited full recovery after 10 days. Discussion: Dyspnea is a clinical sign that should be treated as an emergency, as it is associated with high mortality. In these cases, positive pressure ventilation is indicated in three situations: persistent hypoventilation, severe hypoxemia unresponsive to oxygen therapy, and excessive respiratory effort or fatigue. Dyspnea may be due to impairment of the upper or lower airway or restrictive conditions. Clinically, felines with tracheal foreign bodies have a sudden onset of dyspnea, tachypnea, cough, and lethargy. In these patients, the reduction in lung sounds is a common finding, as observed in the present case. The occurrence of tracheal foreign bodies in cats is rare and, depending on the type of foreign body and its location in the airway, complete obstruction of the respiratory tract may occur. In the present case, it was possible to observe the foreign body in the trachea on radiographic images. Felines with tracheal foreign bodies generally present a structure located close to the carina, as observed in the present case. Bronchoscopy using a flexible or rigid tube is considered the gold-standard technique for removing foreign bodies from the respiratory tract, and the greatest difficulty during the removal procedure is ensuring that the airways are not obstructed by the instruments used. The use of these materials is not free of complications, as they may be responsible for the development of pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, dyspnea, and respiratory failure. In the present case, there were no complications during or after the procedure, and the patient recovered completely.(AU)

Anestesia geral em jabuti-piranga (Chelonoides carbonaria) para retirada de corpo estranho gástrico / General anesthesia in red-footed tortoise (Chelonoides carbonaria) for gastric foreign body removal

Background: The anatomical, physiological, and pharmacological characteristics of reptiles make anesthesia in chelonians particularly challenging. Specific literature regarding safe anesthetic protocols that provide immobilization, antinociception, amnesia, and unconsciousness are scarce. Thus, this paper aims to report the case of a red-footed tortoise submitted to long-duration general anesthesia to celiotomy for foreign body removal. Case: An adult red-footed tortoise (Chelonoides carbonaria), 5.9 kg, was admitted due to hyporexia after ingesting a metallic fishhook. Serial radiographs confirmed the diagnosis and location of the foreign body in the stomach. The animal was premedicated with 0.03 mg/kg dexmedetomidine, 6 mg/kg ketamine, and 0.4 mg/kg butorphanol intramuscularly. After 90 min we inserted a 22G jugular catheter and proceeded to anesthesia induction with 5 mg/kg propofol. We intubated the animal with a 2.5 mm uncuffed endotracheal and started fluid therapy at a rate of 5 mL/kg/h. Surgical anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in 0.21 oxygen, in a non-rebreathing circuit (baraka), under spontaneous breathing. Expired isoflurane was maintained between 3 and 4.5%. Due to reduced respiratory rate and hypercapnia, we opted for implementing manually-assisted positive pressure ventilation. Morphine (0.5 mg/kg) was administered at 10 and 87 min after the beginning of the surgery for further analgesia when the isoflurane requirement increased significantly. We did not detect any alterations in heart and body temperature. Surgical anesthesia lasted 6 h. During anesthesia recovery, voluntary head retraction and coordinated movement of the limbs occurred at 240 and 540 min after the extubation, respectively. In 2 days, the patient returned to voluntary feeding, being very active and responsive to stimulus. The post-surgical hematologic evaluation was unremarkable. Discussion: Pre-anesthetic medication aimed to promote sedation and preemptive analgesia. Due to its minimal cardiorespiratory depression, we chose the combination of ketamine, dexmedetomidine, and butorphanol. Dexmedetomidine reduced the ketamine dose and caused sufficient muscle relaxation and immobilization to perform the jugular catheter placement. Butorphanol is an agonist-antagonist opioid; that is why we decided to add it to the protocol for antinociception. However, due to signs of nociceptive response (increased isoflurane requirements and heart rate), and considering the evidence of a predominance of µ receptors in reptiles, we administered low-dose morphine twice during the procedure. Propofol was chosen as an induction agent at a dose sufficient to allow endotracheal intubation. Since reptilians often show apnea in the presence of 100% oxygen, we used a 0.21 oxygen fraction. Despite this, the patient showed respiratory depression. Due to right to left cardiac shunt, sudden changes in the direction of the blood can lead to very rapid changes in the serum concentrations of isoflurane, which leads to frequent oscillations in the anesthetic depth and consequently the need for vaporizer adjustments, which may justify the high expired isoflurane fraction during the procedure. Despite that, physiological parameters were maintained within normal ranges for the species, with slight variations during the surgical procedure. We conclude that the proposed anesthetic protocol is safe for long-duration anesthesia in chelonians, ensuring cardiovascular and respiratory stability. Thus, this report may help veterinarians to perform safe anesthesia in tortoises submitted to invasive surgical procedures.

Celiotomia e gastrotomia para remoção cirúrgica de corpos estranhos em axolote (Ambystoma mexicanum): relato de caso / Celiotomy and gastrotomy for surgical removal of foreign bodies in axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum): case report

A ingestão de corpos estranhos em aquários artificiais é uma ocorrência frequente observada na clínica cirúrgica de anfíbios criados como pets, o que inclui os axolotes (Ambystoma mexicanum). O presente relato descreve um caso de ingestão de sete corpos estranhos em um axolote macho, de cinco meses de idade, com histórico de abaulamento irregular e irredutível da superfície corpórea ventral, de consistência firme. Na anamnese foi informado que o animal habitava um aquário com substrato de cascalhos. Ao exame físico, o axolote apresentou bom estado geral e parâmetros vitais dentro da normalidade para a espécie. Os materiais deglutidos foram identificados em região gástrica por meio de exame radiográfico corpóreo total, e suas características condiziam com o substrato utilizado no aquário do paciente. Como protocolo anestésico, foi priorizada a imersão em Isofluorano e gás oxigênio, com o objetivo de atingir a via branquial e, ocasionalmente, transdérmica. A remoção cirúrgica foi feita através de celiotomia e gastrotomia em ambiente aquático com temperatura, pH e coleção bacteriana controlados, conforme literatura disponível e tendo em consideração a natureza, diâmetro e localização dos corpos estranhos. Após cinco e quinze dias do procedimento, acompanhou-se a cicatrização da ferida cirúrgica, sendo possível constatar bom restabelecimento da continuidade dos tecidos e bom estado geral do paciente.

The ingestion of foreign bodies in artificial aquariums is a frequent occurrence observed in the surgical clinic of amphibians raised as pets, which includes axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum). The present report describes a case of ingestion of seven foreign bodies in a male axolotl, five months old, with a history of irregular and irreducible bulging of the ventral body surface, with firm consistency. In the anamnesis, it was reported that the animal inhabited an aquariums with gravel substrate. On physical examination, the axolotl showed good general condition and vital parameters within the normal range for the species. The swallowed materials were identified in the gastric region by means of total body radiographic examination, and their characteristics were consistent with the substrate used in the patient's aquarium. As anesthetic protocol, immersion in Isofluorane and oxygen gas was prioritized, in order to reach the branchial and, occasionally, transdermal route. Surgical removal was performed through celiotomy and gastrotomy in an aquatic environment with controlled temperature, pH and bacterial collection, according to available literature and taking into account the nature, diameter and location of foreign bodies. After five and fifteen days of the procedure, the healing of the surgical wound was monitored, showing a good restoration of tissue continuity and a good general condition of the patient.

Comparative analysis of the hormone production and gene expression profiles in ovine uterus tissue during oestrus cycle synchronized using medroxyprogesterone acetate plus eCG and prostaglandin analogue / Análise comparativa da produção de hormônios e perfis de expressão gênica em tecido uterino ovino durante o ciclo estral sincronizado usando acetato de medroxiprogesterona mais eCG e análogo de prostaglandina

The combination of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and gonadotropin chorionic (eCG) has been widely used to synchronize oestrus cycle in sheep, but their effects on the gene expression in uterine tissue are yet to be elucidated. To evaluate the effect of MPA + eCG or prostaglandin analogue (PA) treatments on the rate of oestrus cycle synchronization, as well as further hormone production and gene expression profiles in uterine tissue, 14 Santa Inês ewes were randomly selected. The MPA + eCG group (n=7) received intravaginal insertion of MPA-impregnated sponges for 14 days and was administered 350 IU eCG on the day of sponge withdrawal. The PA group (n=7) was administered two doses of 100 µg of PA separated by 12 days. The ewes were assessed for the rate of oestrus cycle synchronization and the serum concentrations of progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2). Additionally, the expression of estrogen receptor (ERα), progesterone receptor (P4R), and immunolocalization of interferon receptor (IFNAR1) in the uterine tissue samples collected 15th day post-mating were examined. The rate of oestrus cycle synchronization was 100% (n=7/7) and 57.14% (n=4/7) in the MPA + eCG and PA groups, respectively. Moreover, the MPA + eCG group exhibited higher serum concentration of P4 than the PA group (p < 0.05). However, the E2 serum concentration did not differ between the two groups (p > 0.05). The relative expression of P4R and ERα mRNA analyzed using real-time PCR and immunodetection of IFNAR1 were similar between the two groups tested (p > 0.05). Conclusively, MPA + eCG treatment improved the rate of oestrus cycle synchronization and endogenous P4 production; however, it did not affect the expression of sex steroid receptors and IFNAR1 in uterine ovine tissue.(AU)

A combinação de acetato de medroxiprogesterona (MPA) com gonadotrofina coriônica (eCG) é amplamente utilizada para sincronizar o estro de ovelhas, mas seus possíveis efeitos sobre a expressão gênica em tecido uterino não foram elucidados. Para avaliar o efeito dos protocolos MPA + eCG ou análogo de prostaglandina (PA) sobre a taxa de sincronização do estro, bem como na futura produção hormonal e expressão gênica em tecido uterino, 14 ovelhas Santa Inês foram selecionadas. O grupo MPA + eCG (n=7) recebeu a inserção de esponjas impregnadas de MPA por via intravaginal por 14 dias e 350 UI de eCG no dia da retirada da esponja. O grupo PA recebeu duas doses de 100 µg de PA administradas com 12 dias de intervalo. As ovelhas foram avaliadas quanto à taxa de sincronização do estro, concentração sérica de progesterona (P4) e estradiol (E2). Além disso, foram examinadas a expressão do receptor de estradiol (ERα), receptor de progesterona (P4R) e localização do receptor de interferon (IFNAR1), a partir de amostras de tecido uterino coletadas 15 dias após o acasalamento. A taxa de sincronização do estro foi 100% (n = 7/7) e 57,14% (n = 4/7) nos grupos MPA + eCG e PA, respectivamente. Além disso, o grupo MPA + eCG apresentou maior concentração sérica de P4 em comparação com o grupo PA (P < 0,05). No entanto, a concentração sérica de E2 não diferiu entre os grupos testados (P > 0,05). A expressão relativa de RNAm para P4R e ERα analisado por PCR em tempo real e imunodetecção de IFNAR1 foi semelhante entre os grupos testados (P > 0,05). Em conclusão, o tratamento com MPA + eCG melhora a taxa de sincronização do estro e a produção de progesterona endógena; contudo, não afeta a regulação da expressão de receptores de esteroides sexuais e IFNAR1 no tecido uterino de ovinos.(AU)

Application of hormonal subdoses at the Bai Hui acupoint for estrus synchronization in sheep / Aplicação de subdoses hormonais no ponto de acupuntura Bai Hui para sincronização de estro em ovelhas

Here, the efficiency of applying subdoses of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) and prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) at the Bai Hui (BH) acupoint for estrus synchronization in sheep was evaluated. Thirty Santa Inês ewes received intravaginal sponges containing 60 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate for 7 days. The animals were divided into five treatments (T) (n=6): T1 (control), 132.5 µg PGF2α (100% of dose) and 300 IU eCG (100% of dose), both intramuscularly (IM); T2, 39.75 µg PGF2α (30% of dose) at the BH acupoint and 300 IU eCG (100% of dose) IM; T3, 132.5 µg PGF2α (100% of dose) IM and 90 IU eCG (30% of dose) at the BH acupoint; T4, 39.75 µg PGF2α (30% of dose) and 90 IU eCG (30% of dose), both at the BH acupoint; and T5, 39.75 µg PGF2α (30% of dose) and 90 IU eCG (30% of dose) both at a false acupoint (IM, at the same location as in T1). After 12 h of sponge removal and hormone application, the ewes were subjected to monitoring for estrus and mating and ultrasound assessments of follicular growth and ovulation time every 12 h. The data were evaluated for normality and subjected to analysis of variance, considering a 5% probability. There were no differences in the percentage of animals in estrus (93.3±9.1%), interval from sponge removal to estrus onset (48.1±6.0 h), interval from sponge removal to estrus end (69.6±5.4 h), duration of estrus (24.0±4.7 h), interval from sponge removal to ovulation (73.7±5.9 h), interval from estrus onset to ovulation (26.5±2.3 h), size of the largest follicle (6.7±0.4 mm), follicular growth rate (0.8±0.1 mm•day-1), number of ovulations (1.3±0.1), and plasma progesterone levels 7 days after ovulation (9.6±2.0 ng•mL-1). The cost of the synchronization protocol per animal was US$ 4.37, 4.12, 2.96, 2.71, and 2.71 for T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5, respectively, with 37.99% cost reduction using PGF2α and eCG at 30% of the conventional doses. Therefore, the application of reduced PGF2α (39.75 µg) and eCG (90 IU) doses at the BH or false acupoint effectively synchronized estrus and reduced protocol cost in sheep, indicating that the conventional doses are overestimated.(AU)

Aqui, foi avaliada a eficiência da aplicação de subdoses de gonadotrofina coriônica equina (eCG) e prostaglandina F2α (PGF2α) no ponto de acupuntura Bai Hui (BH) para sincronização de estro em ovelhas. Trinta ovelhas Santa Inês receberam esponjas intravaginais contendo 60 mg de acetato de medroxiprogesterona por 7 dias. Os animais foram divididos em cinco tratamentos (T) (n=6): T1 (controle), 132,5 µg PGF2α (100% da dose) e 300 UI de eCG (100% da dose), ambos por via intramuscular (IM); T2, 39,75 µg de PGF2α (30% da dose) no ponto de acupuntura BH e 300 UI eCG (100% da dose) IM; T3, 132,5 µg PGF2α (100% da dose) IM e 90 UI eCG (30% da dose) no ponto de acupuntura BH; T4, 39,75 µg PGF2α (30% da dose) e 90 UI eCG (30% da dose), ambos no ponto de acupuntura BH; e T5, 39,75 µg PGF2α (30% da dose) e 90 UI eCG (30% da dose) ambos em um falso acuponto (IM, no mesmo local que em T1). Após 12 horas da retirada da esponja e aplicação do hormônio, as ovelhas foram submetidas ao monitoramento do estro e acasalamento, e avaliação ultrassonográfica do crescimento folicular e tempo de ovulação a cada 12 horas. Os dados foram avaliados quanto à normalidade e submetidos à análise de variância, considerando 5% de probabilidade. Não houve diferenças na porcentagem de animais em estro (93,3 ± 9,1%), intervalo da remoção da esponja ao início do estro (48,1 ± 6,0 h), intervalo da remoção da esponja ao final do estro (69,6 ± 5,4 h), duração do estro (24,0 ± 4,7 h), intervalo da remoção da esponja à ovulação (73,7 ± 5,9 h), intervalo do início do estro à ovulação (26,5 ± 2,3 h), tamanho do maior folículo (6,7 ± 0,4 mm), taxa de crescimento folicular (0,8 ± 0,1 mm•dia-1), número de ovulações (1,3 ± 0,1) e níveis de progesterona plasmática 7 dias após a ovulação (9,6 ± 2,0 ng•mL-1). O custo do protocolo de sincronização por animal foi de US $ 4,37, 4,12, 2,96, 2,71 e 2,71 para T1, T2, T3, T4 e T5, respectivamente, com redução de custo de 37,99% usando PGF2α e eCG a 30% das doses convencionais. Portanto, a aplicação de PGF2α (39,75 µg) e doses reduzidas de eCG (90 UI) no BH ou falso acuponto sincronizaram efetivamente o estro e reduziram o custo do protocolo em ovelhas, indicando que as doses convencionais estão superestimadas.(AU)

Hatchability of gemmules of two Neotropical freshwater sponges (Porifera: Spongillida)

Inland waters experience extreme environmental conditions determining the evolution of several adaptive strategies of the fauna to these variable conditions. Freshwater sponges produce resisting bodies called gemmules that contain totipotent cells and specialized spicules (gemmuloscleres). Completely formed gemmules exhibit low metabolic rates and may become dormant during periods of environmental stress. Until now, few species had their hatchability tested against different environmental conditions. The purpose of the present study was to test the capacity of hatching gemmules of two freshwater sponge species (Heteromeyenia cristalina Batista, Volkmer-Ribeiro & Melão, 2007 and Radiospongilla inesi Nicacio & Pinheiro, 2011) from inland waters from different localities. Five assays were tested (A): A1 (water of sponge collection site); A2 (Pirangi River water); A3 (Araraquara Pond water); A4 (mineral water) and A5 (A1 after drying gemmules). For each assay, three replicates with 30 gemmules were used. The gemmules were observed daily during 30 days. Data analysis was performed using ANOVA and a posteriori Tukey test. Results showed that gemmules from both species submitted to A3 have not hatched, probably due to its very high conductivity. There was a significant difference between assays (A1, A2 and A4) and between species (F2, 12 = 77.2; P 0.001). Comparison between A1 and A5 showed significant differences between both assays and species (F1, 8 = 27.5; P 0.001). Radiospongilla inesi presented high hatching rate at all assays, while H. cristalina had a high hatching rate only on A1 and A5. Results clearly show that each species has a different capacity of hatching.(AU)

Ambientes de águas continentais estão suscetíveis a condições ambientais extremas, determinantes à evolução de várias estratégias adaptativas para estas condições variáveis. As esponjas de águas continentais produzem corpos resistentes chamados gêmulas, que contêm células totipotentes e espículas especializadas (gemoscleras). As gêmulas completamente formadas exibem baixas taxas metabólicas e podem tornar-se dormentes tipicamente durante períodos de estresse ambiental. Até agora, poucas espécies tiveram sua capacidade de eclosão testada frente diferentes condições ambientais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi testar a capacidade de eclosão de gêmulas para duas espécies (Heteromeyenia cristalina Batista, Volkmer-Ribeiro & Melão, 2007 e Radiospongilla inesi Nicacio & Pinheiro, 2011) de esponjas de águas continentais em águas de diferentes localidades. Foram realizados cinco ensaios (A): A1 (água do local da coleta das esponjas); A2 (água do Rio Pirangi); A3 (água da Lagoa Araraquara); A4 (água mineral) e A5 (água do local da coleta das esponjas). Para cada ensaio, três réplicas com 30 gêmulas foram usadas. As gêmulas foram observadas diariamente durante 30 dias. A análise de dados foi conduzida usando ANOVA e o teste aposteriori Tukey. Os resultados mostraram que gêmulas de ambas espécies submetidas ao A3 não eclodiram, provavelmente devido à alta condutividade. Há diferenças entre os ensaios (A1, A2 e A4) e entre espécies (F2, 12 = 77.2; P 0.001). Ao comparar A1 e A5, houve diferenças significativas entre ambos os ensaios e espécies (F1, 8 = 27.5; P 0.001). Radiospongilla inesi apresentou alta taxa de eclosão em todos os ensaios enquanto que Heteromeyenia cristalina teve uma alta taxa de eclosão apenas no ensaio com água do seu ambiente natural. Os resultados mostram claramente que cada espécie tem diferente capacidade de eclosão.(AU)

Hatchability of gemmules of two Neotropical freshwater sponges (Porifera: Spongillida)

Inland waters experience extreme environmental conditions determining the evolution of several adaptive strategies of the fauna to these variable conditions. Freshwater sponges produce resisting bodies called gemmules that contain totipotent cells and specialized spicules (gemmuloscleres). Completely formed gemmules exhibit low metabolic rates and may become dormant during periods of environmental stress. Until now, few species had their hatchability tested against different environmental conditions. The purpose of the present study was to test the capacity of hatching gemmules of two freshwater sponge species (Heteromeyenia cristalina Batista, Volkmer-Ribeiro & Melão, 2007 and Radiospongilla inesi Nicacio & Pinheiro, 2011) from inland waters from different localities. Five assays were tested (A): A1 (water of sponge collection site); A2 (Pirangi River water); A3 (Araraquara Pond water); A4 (mineral water) and A5 (A1 after drying gemmules). For each assay, three replicates with 30 gemmules were used. The gemmules were observed daily during 30 days. Data analysis was performed using ANOVA and a posteriori Tukey test. Results showed that gemmules from both species submitted to A3 have not hatched, probably due to its very high conductivity. There was a significant difference between assays (A1, A2 and A4) and between species (F2, 12 = 77.2; P 0.001). Comparison between A1 and A5 showed significant differences between both assays and species (F1, 8 = 27.5; P 0.001). Radiospongilla inesi presented high hatching rate at all assays, while H. cristalina had a high hatching rate only on A1 and A5. Results clearly show that each species has a different capacity of hatching.

Ambientes de águas continentais estão suscetíveis a condições ambientais extremas, determinantes à evolução de várias estratégias adaptativas para estas condições variáveis. As esponjas de águas continentais produzem corpos resistentes chamados gêmulas, que contêm células totipotentes e espículas especializadas (gemoscleras). As gêmulas completamente formadas exibem baixas taxas metabólicas e podem tornar-se dormentes tipicamente durante períodos de estresse ambiental. Até agora, poucas espécies tiveram sua capacidade de eclosão testada frente diferentes condições ambientais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi testar a capacidade de eclosão de gêmulas para duas espécies (Heteromeyenia cristalina Batista, Volkmer-Ribeiro & Melão, 2007 e Radiospongilla inesi Nicacio & Pinheiro, 2011) de esponjas de águas continentais em águas de diferentes localidades. Foram realizados cinco ensaios (A): A1 (água do local da coleta das esponjas); A2 (água do Rio Pirangi); A3 (água da Lagoa Araraquara); A4 (água mineral) e A5 (água do local da coleta das esponjas). Para cada ensaio, três réplicas com 30 gêmulas foram usadas. As gêmulas foram observadas diariamente durante 30 dias. A análise de dados foi conduzida usando ANOVA e o teste aposteriori Tukey. Os resultados mostraram que gêmulas de ambas espécies submetidas ao A3 não eclodiram, provavelmente devido à alta condutividade. Há diferenças entre os ensaios (A1, A2 e A4) e entre espécies (F2, 12 = 77.2; P 0.001). Ao comparar A1 e A5, houve diferenças significativas entre ambos os ensaios e espécies (F1, 8 = 27.5; P 0.001). Radiospongilla inesi apresentou alta taxa de eclosão em todos os ensaios enquanto que Heteromeyenia cristalina teve uma alta taxa de eclosão apenas no ensaio com água do seu ambiente natural. Os resultados mostram claramente que cada espécie tem diferente capacidade de eclosão.

Hatchability of gemmules of two Neotropical freshwater sponges (Porifera: Spongillida)

ABSTRACT Inland waters experience extreme environmental conditions determining the evolution of several adaptive strategies of the fauna to these variable conditions. Freshwater sponges produce resisting bodies called gemmules that contain totipotent cells and specialized spicules (gemmuloscleres). Completely formed gemmules exhibit low metabolic rates and may become dormant during periods of environmental stress. Until now, few species had their hatchability tested against different environmental conditions. The purpose of the present study was to test the capacity of hatching gemmules of two freshwater sponge species (Heteromeyenia cristalina Batista, Volkmer-Ribeiro & Melão, 2007 and Radiospongilla inesi Nicacio & Pinheiro, 2011) from inland waters from different localities. Five assays were tested (A): A1 (water of sponge collection site); A2 (Pirangi River water); A3 (Araraquara Pond water); A4 (mineral water) and A5 (A1 after drying gemmules). For each assay, three replicates with 30 gemmules were used. The gemmules were observed daily during 30 days. Data analysis was performed using ANOVA and a posteriori Tukey test. Results showed that gemmules from both species submitted to A3 have not hatched, probably due to its very high conductivity. There was a significant difference between assays (A1, A2 and A4) and between species (F2, 12 = 77.2; P 0.001). Comparison between A1 and A5 showed significant differences between both assays and species (F1, 8 = 27.5; P 0.001). Radiospongilla inesi presented high hatching rate at all assays, while H. cristalina had a high hatching rate only on A1 and A5. Results clearly show that each species has a different capacity of hatching.

RESUMO Ambientes de águas continentais estão suscetíveis a condições ambientais extremas, determinantes à evolução de várias estratégias adaptativas para estas condições variáveis. As esponjas de águas continentais produzem corpos resistentes chamados gêmulas, que contêm células totipotentes e espículas especializadas (gemoscleras). As gêmulas completamente formadas exibem baixas taxas metabólicas e podem tornar-se dormentes tipicamente durante períodos de estresse ambiental. Até agora, poucas espécies tiveram sua capacidade de eclosão testada frente diferentes condições ambientais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi testar a capacidade de eclosão de gêmulas para duas espécies (Heteromeyenia cristalina Batista, Volkmer-Ribeiro & Melão, 2007 e Radiospongilla inesi Nicacio & Pinheiro, 2011) de esponjas de águas continentais em águas de diferentes localidades. Foram realizados cinco ensaios (A): A1 (água do local da coleta das esponjas); A2 (água do Rio Pirangi); A3 (água da Lagoa Araraquara); A4 (água mineral) e A5 (água do local da coleta das esponjas). Para cada ensaio, três réplicas com 30 gêmulas foram usadas. As gêmulas foram observadas diariamente durante 30 dias. A análise de dados foi conduzida usando ANOVA e o teste aposteriori Tukey. Os resultados mostraram que gêmulas de ambas espécies submetidas ao A3 não eclodiram, provavelmente devido à alta condutividade. Há diferenças entre os ensaios (A1, A2 e A4) e entre espécies (F2, 12 = 77.2; P 0.001). Ao comparar A1 e A5, houve diferenças significativas entre ambos os ensaios e espécies (F1, 8 = 27.5; P 0.001). Radiospongilla inesi apresentou alta taxa de eclosão em todos os ensaios enquanto que Heteromeyenia cristalina teve uma alta taxa de eclosão apenas no ensaio com água do seu ambiente natural. Os resultados mostram claramente que cada espécie tem diferente capacidade de eclosão.

Esponjas de banho: promovem limpeza ou podem ser reservatório e veículo de transmissão de microrganismos? / Bath sponges: promote cleaning or can be reservoirs and vehicles in the transmission of microorganisms?

As esponjas de banho podem carrear contaminação, pois sua estrutura favorece a multiplicação microbiana. Desse modo, o objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar a eficiência de dois métodos de desinfecção para diminuir a quantidade de microrganismos de importância clínica nas esponjas de banho. Foram analisadas 30 esponjas de banho (15 vegetais e 15 sintéticas) que foram cortadas em três partes iguais. Uma delas serviu como controle. As demais partes foram submetidas à desinfecção por fervura durante cinco minutos e à imersão em hipoclorito de sódio 200 ppm. Os resultados demonstraram média de contaminação de bactérias heterotróficas de 4,1 LogUFC/mL e 4,7 LogUFC/mL, para as vegetais e sintéticas, respectivamente. A maioria (80%) das esponjas (10 sintéticas e 14 vegetais) apresentou contaminação por microrganismos de importância clínica. Os métodos de desinfecção reduziram as contagens de bactérias heterotróficas em 3,3 LogUFC/mL com fervura durante cinco minutos e 1,8 LogUFC/mL com desinfecção em hipoclorito de sódio 200 ppm. Conclui-se, portanto, que as esponjas de banho possuem contaminação microbiológica de importância clínica e que a fervura por cinco minutos é um método de fácil execução, baixo custo e capaz de controlar a quantidade de bactérias nas esponjas utilizadas para banho, reduzindo a disseminação de doenças.

Bath sponges can carry contamination, because their structure favors microbial multiplication. Thus, the objective of this work was to verify the efficiency of two disinfection methods to decrease the number of microorganisms of clinical importance in bath sponges. Thirty bath sponges (15 loofah and 15 synthetic) were analyzed and cut in three equal parts. One served as control. The other parts were boiled disinfected for five minutes and immersed in 200 ppm sodium hypochlorite. The results showed a mean contamination of heterotrophic bacteria of 4.1 LogUFC/mL and 4.7 LogUFC/mL, for plants and synthetic, respectively. The majority (80%) of the sponges (10 synthetic and 14 loofah) presented contamination by microorganisms of clinical importance. Disinfection methods reduced the counts of heterotrophic bacteria by 3.3 LogUFC/mL with boiling for five minutes and 1.8 LogUFC/mL with disinfection with 200 ppm sodium hypochlorite. It is concluded, therefore, that bath sponges present microbiological contamination of clinical importance and that boiling for five minutes is an easily executed low-cost method that is able to control the amount of bacteria in sponges used for bathing, reducing the risk of dissemination of disease.

Esponjas de banho: promovem limpeza ou podem ser reservatório e veículo de transmissão de microrganismos? / Bath sponges: promote cleaning or can be reservoirs and vehicles in the transmission of microorganisms?

As esponjas de banho podem carrear contaminação, pois sua estrutura favorece a multiplicação microbiana. Desse modo, o objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar a eficiência de dois métodos de desinfecção para diminuir a quantidade de microrganismos de importância clínica nas esponjas de banho. Foram analisadas 30 esponjas de banho (15 vegetais e 15 sintéticas) que foram cortadas em três partes iguais. Uma delas serviu como controle. As demais partes foram submetidas à desinfecção por fervura durante cinco minutos e à imersão em hipoclorito de sódio 200 ppm. Os resultados demonstraram média de contaminação de bactérias heterotróficas de 4,1 LogUFC/mL e 4,7 LogUFC/mL, para as vegetais e sintéticas, respectivamente. A maioria (80%) das esponjas (10 sintéticas e 14 vegetais) apresentou contaminação por microrganismos de importância clínica. Os métodos de desinfecção reduziram as contagens de bactérias heterotróficas em 3,3 LogUFC/mL com fervura durante cinco minutos e 1,8 LogUFC/mL com desinfecção em hipoclorito de sódio 200 ppm. Conclui-se, portanto, que as esponjas de banho possuem contaminação microbiológica de importância clínica e que a fervura por cinco minutos é um método de fácil execução, baixo custo e capaz de controlar a quantidade de bactérias nas esponjas utilizadas para banho, reduzindo a disseminação de doenças.(AU)

Bath sponges can carry contamination, because their structure favors microbial multiplication. Thus, the objective of this work was to verify the efficiency of two disinfection methods to decrease the number of microorganisms of clinical importance in bath sponges. Thirty bath sponges (15 loofah and 15 synthetic) were analyzed and cut in three equal parts. One served as control. The other parts were boiled disinfected for five minutes and immersed in 200 ppm sodium hypochlorite. The results showed a mean contamination of heterotrophic bacteria of 4.1 LogUFC/mL and 4.7 LogUFC/mL, for plants and synthetic, respectively. The majority (80%) of the sponges (10 synthetic and 14 loofah) presented contamination by microorganisms of clinical importance. Disinfection methods reduced the counts of heterotrophic bacteria by 3.3 LogUFC/mL with boiling for five minutes and 1.8 LogUFC/mL with disinfection with 200 ppm sodium hypochlorite. It is concluded, therefore, that bath sponges present microbiological contamination of clinical importance and that boiling for five minutes is an easily executed low-cost method that is able to control the amount of bacteria in sponges used for bathing, reducing the risk of dissemination of disease.(AU)

Abordagem clínico-cirúrgica em cão com corpo estranho linear extenso / Clinical-surgical approach in dog with extensive linear strange body

Na rotina da clínica médica de pequenos animais, o corpo estranho é uma ocorrência relativamente comum, sobretudo quando se trata de animais jovens, de pequeno a médio porte ou apetite exagerado e grande curiosidade. Casos de corpos estranhos lineares são particularmente mais complexos que outros tipos de corpos estranhos devido à área que acabam por acometer ser de maior extensão e assim resultam em casos mais graves com maior processo inflamatório com acometimento das populações bacterianas da microbiota local. Quando acometem a região entérica, o corpo estranho linear pode desenvolver quadros de intussuscepção. A sintomatologia pode ser ampla, incluindo desde sinais característicos do trato gastrointestinal, como vômito e falta de apetite, até sintomas mais sistêmicos como febre, apatia e desordens inflamatórias. O diagnóstico deve incluir anamnese, exames físico e clínico, observação do estado geral do animal, histórico e informações relevantes e fatores predisponentes como raça e idade podem ser importantes para o caso. Exames de imagens e laboratoriais auxiliam no diagnóstico e tem papel fundamental para estadiar o tempo de acometimento e precisar o local em que o corpo estranho está situado no trato gastroentérico. Este trabalho tem como objetivo relatar um caso de corpo estranho linear excepcional devido à sua extensão de aproximadamente 30 metros e à complexidade da técnica cirúrgica de sua remoção que associou uma gastrotomia e quatro enterotomias. Apesar da complexidade da intervenção cirúrgica, o resultado e prognóstico observado no animal foi positivo, com rápida recuperação pós-cirúrgica.

In the routine of the small animal medical clinic, the foreign body is a relatively common occurrence, especially when it comes to young animals, from small to medium size or exaggerated appetite and great curiosity. Cases of linear foreign bodies are particularly more complex than other types of foreign bodies due to the area that they end up being of greater extent and thus result in more severe cases with a greater inflammatory process affecting the bacterial populations of the local microbiota. When they affect the enteric region, the linear foreign body may develop intussusception. The symptoms can be wide ranging, ranging from signs characteristic of the gastrointestinal tract, such as vomiting and poor appetite, to more systemic symptoms such as fever, apathy and inflammatory disorders. The diagnosis must include anamnesis, physical and clinical examinations, observation of the animal's general condition, history and relevant information and predisposing factors such as breed and age may be important for the case. Imaging and laboratory tests assist in diagnosis and have a fundamental role in staging the time of onset and specifying the location where the foreign body is located in the gastroenteric tract. This work aims to report a case of an exceptional linear foreign body due to its extension of approximately 30 meters and the complexity of the surgical technique of its removal that associated a gastrotomy and four enterotomies. Despite the complexity of the surgical intervention, the result and prognosis observed in the animal was positive, with rapid post-surgical recovery.