Blood serum triiodothyronine in Karagouniko and Chios rams as affected by season in a temperate environment

The current research investigated triiodothyronine concentrations in Karagouniko and Chios rams in a temperate climate zone, considering the periods January-June and July-November, characterized by a gradual increase and decrease of daylight length, respectively. The animals raised in the farm of the Artificial Insemination Center of Karditsa (39021΄18΄΄N, 21054΄19΄΄E), Greece, and the meteorological variables air temperature, relative humidity, and sunshine, as well as photoperiod, were considered for a more detailed analysis. T-tests were used to detect possible changes in the concentration of triiodothyronine in both sheep breeds and in the abovementioned meteorological variables. January-June coincided with significantly higher (P < 0.05) triiodothyronine concentrations in Karagouniko and Chios rams (0.82 ng/ml and 0.77 ng/ml, respectively) compared to July-November (0.72 ng/ml in Karagouniko and 0.67 ng/ml in Chios rams). Air temperature and sunshine followed the opposite pattern (P < 0.05). Karagouniko rams showed higher triiodothyronine concentrations than Chios rams, irrespective of the season. Our findings shed light on an important aspect of the thyroid gland function in Karagouniko and Chios sheep under temperate environmental conditions.

Disfunções endócrinas mais comuns e que podem afetar a atividade reprodutiva de cães / Endocrine dysfunctions that can affect reproductive activity in dogs

As disfunções hormonais podem interagir com eixo hipotalamo-hipófise-gônadas (H/H/G) resultando em alteração da espermatogênese e impactando negativamente a fertilidade dos machos. As endocrinopatias na espécie canina são mais frequentes nas fêmeas e muitas vezes os sinais clínicos iniciais envolvem alopecias e alterações de peso, comportamento e de metabolismo. As disfunções hormonais comuns em cães machos incluem o hipotireoidismo, hiperplasia prostática benigna e os tumores testiculares. Cães idosos geralmente apresentam alterações hormonais dependentes da idade, mas a literatura é escassa e conflitante em relação a esta condição, assim o objetivo dessa revisão é informar e atualizar conceitos relacionados às disfunções hormonais que podem causar infertilidade em cães machos com vistas a ferramentas mais modernas de diagnósticos e avaliação seminal.(AU)

Hormonal dysfunctions may interact with hypothalamus, pituitary, gonads (H/H/G) axis resulting in altered spermatogenesis and negatively impacting male fertility. Endocrinopathies in the canine species are more frequent in females and often the initial clinical signs involve alopecia and changes in weight, behavior, and metabolism. Common hormonal dysfunctions in male dogs include hypothyroidism, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and testicular tumors. Older dogs usually present age- dependent hormonal changes, but the literature is scarce and conflicting regarding this condition, thus the aim of this review is to inform and update concepts related to hormonal dysfunctions that can cause infertility in male dogs with a view to more modern diagnostic tools and seminal evaluation.(AU)

Triiodothyronine does not influence in vitro chondrogenic differentiation of adipose tissue-derived stem cells from young female rat / Triiodotironina não influencia na diferenciação condrogênica de células tronco do tecido adipose de ratas jovens

The objective of this study was to investigate the in vitro action of triiodothyronine (T3) on the chondrogenic differentiation of adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs) of female rats, with different time periods and doses. ASCs were extracted from female Wistar rats and were cultured in chondrogenic medium with and without the presence of T3. Five groups were established: 1) ASCs without T3; and 2,3,4,5) ASCs with 0.01, 1, 100 and 1,000 nM T3, respectively). After 7, 14 and 21 days, cell morphology, chondrogenic matrix formation, and expression of Sox9, aggrecan, collagen II, and collagen X were evaluated. The Student-Newman-Keuls test was used. ASCs showed CD54, CD73, and CD90 before chondrogenic differentiation. The hormone treatment did not alter chondrogenic matrix formation, Sox9 expression at 14 or 21 days, or expression of collagen II or collagen X at any time. However, the 0.01, 1, and 1000 nM T3 doses decreased Sox9 expression at 7 days. In conclusion, chondrogenic differentiation of ASCs of female rats is not influenced by T3.

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi verificar o efeito in vitro da triiodotironina (T3) na diferenciação condrogênica de células tronco mesenquimais do tecido adiposo (CTM-TA) de ratas, durante vários períodos e em várias doses. CTM-TA foram coletadas de ratas Wistar e cultivadas em meio condrogênico com ou sem a presença de T3. Constitui-se cinco grupos: 1) CTM-TA sem T3; e 2,3,4,5) CTM-TA com T3 (0,01; 1; 100 e 1000 nM, respectivamente). Após sete, 14 e 21 dias, foram avaliados morfologia celular, formação de matriz condrogênica e expressão de Sox9, agrecano, colágeno II e colágeno X. Para as análises foi utilizado o teste de Student Newman Keuls. CTM-TA expressaram CD54, CD73 e CD90 antes da diferenciação condrogênica. O tratamento hormonal não alterou a formação de matriz condrogênica e a expressão de Sox9 aos 14 e 21 dias e expressão dos colágenos II e X em nenhum dos períodos avaliados. No entanto, as doses de 0,01; 1 e 1000 nM T3 diminuíram a expressão de Sox9 aos 7 dias. Conclui-se que a diferenciação condrogênica de CTM-TA de ratas não é influenciada pela T3.

Location and Vascular Classification of 188 parathyroid glands in New Zealand White Rabbits / [Localização e Classificação Vascular de 188 glândulas paratireoidianas em coelhos brancos da Nova Zelândia]

The function and protection of the parathyroid glands are increasingly popular research topics. New Zealand white rabbits are the most commonly used animal model of parathyroid ischemia. However, information on the vasculature of their parathyroid glands is limited. We used 94 healthy New Zealand white rabbits, 3-4 months of age and 2-3kg in weight, for exploration of the parathyroid glands, which were stained using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) after removal. The following types were classified according to the relationship between the position of the inferior parathyroid gland and the thyroid: Type A, Close Type, Type B, and Distant Type. There were 188 cases, 4 where the inferior parathyroid glands were located near the dorsal side of thyroid (2.13%), 8 where the inferior parathyroid glands were located superior to the upper pole of the thyroid (4.26%), 20 where the inferior parathyroid glands were located parallel to the thyroid (10.64%), and 155 cases where the inferior parathyroid glands were located inferior to the lower pole of thyroid (82.45%). Identifying the location and classifying the vasculature of the parathyroid glands in New Zealand white rabbits will provide an anatomical model to assist in future research.(AU)

A função e proteção das glândulas paratireoidianas é um tópico de pesquisa cada vez mais popular. Coelhos brancos da Nova Zelândia são o modelo animal mais comumente usada para isquemia da paratireóide. Porém, informação sobre a vasculatura de suas glândulas paratireóides é limitada. Foram usados 94 coelhos brancos da Nova Zelândia saudáveis, com 3-4 meses de idade, 2-3kg de peso, para exploração das glândulas paratireóides, que foram coradas com hematoxilina e eosina (HE) após a remoção. Os seguintes tipos foram classificados de acordo com a relação entre a posição da glândula paratireoidiana inferior e a tireoide: Tipo A, Tipo Próximo, Tipo B e Tipo Distante. Houve 188 casos, 4 em que as glândulas paratireoidianas inferiores estavam localizadas próximas ao lado dorsal da tireoide (2.13%), 8 onde as glândulas paratireoidianas inferiores estavam localizadas superiores ao polo superior da tireoide (4.26%), 20 onde as glândulas paratireoidianas inferiores estavam localizadas paralelo à tireoide (10.64%) e 155 casos em que as glândulas paratireoidianas inferiores estavam localizadas inferiores ao polo inferior da tireoide (82.45%). A identificação da localização e a classificação da vasculatura das glândulas paratireóides em coelhos brancos da Nova Zelândia fornecerão um modelo anatômico para auxiliar em pesquisas futuras.(AU)

Vitamins E and C Supplementation in Japanese Quail: Effects on Growth Performance and Biochemical and Haematological Parameters

The effects of vitamins E and C supplementation on growth performance and biochemical and haematological parameters of Japanese quail were studied. A total of 360 one-day-old Japanese female quails were randomly allocated to nine dietary treatment groups (10 birds per replicate and 4 replicates per treatment), including a control (basal diet) and the basal diet supplemented with: 250 or 500 mg/kg of vitamin C, 250 or 500 mg/kg of vitamin E, 250 mg/kg of both vitamins E and C, 250 and 500 mg/kg of vitamins E and C, 500 and 250 mg/kg of vitamins E and C, and 500 mg/kg of both vitamins E and C. Vitamin supplementation improved productive parameters and raised the blood plasma levels of protein, thyroid-stimulating hormone, calcium and phosphorus, while decreased those of glucose, uric acid, creatinine and triglycerides, as well as lowered the activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase. Leukocyte count as well as the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio decreased and red blood cell count increased in the supplemented groups. The results obtained support that the simultaneous supplementation with vitamins E and C has greater positive effects on growth performance, metabolism indicators and haematological parameters than their supplementation separately, which in turn shows improvements over the absence of supplementation.(AU)

Vitamins E and C Supplementation in Japanese Quail: Effects on Growth Performance and Biochemical and Haematological Parameters

The effects of vitamins E and C supplementation on growth performance and biochemical and haematological parameters of Japanese quail were studied. A total of 360 one-day-old Japanese female quails were randomly allocated to nine dietary treatment groups (10 birds per replicate and 4 replicates per treatment), including a control (basal diet) and the basal diet supplemented with: 250 or 500 mg/kg of vitamin C, 250 or 500 mg/kg of vitamin E, 250 mg/kg of both vitamins E and C, 250 and 500 mg/kg of vitamins E and C, 500 and 250 mg/kg of vitamins E and C, and 500 mg/kg of both vitamins E and C. Vitamin supplementation improved productive parameters and raised the blood plasma levels of protein, thyroid-stimulating hormone, calcium and phosphorus, while decreased those of glucose, uric acid, creatinine and triglycerides, as well as lowered the activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase. Leukocyte count as well as the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio decreased and red blood cell count increased in the supplemented groups. The results obtained support that the simultaneous supplementation with vitamins E and C has greater positive effects on growth performance, metabolism indicators and haematological parameters than their supplementation separately, which in turn shows improvements over the absence of supplementation.

Arco corneano bilateral em canino / Bilateral corneal arcus in canine

Background: The cornea is a component of the animal’s eye that is transparent in appearance because of the arrangement of collagen fibrils and the absence of vascularization and pigmentation. Corneal degeneration can result in a lesion known as corneal arcus, which presents as loss of transparency. It is characterized by a dense white opacity with defined borders. This lesion can be caused by lipid keratopathy, occurring as cholesterol and triglyceride deposits in the corneal stroma. In this case, analysis of the serum lipid profile and evaluation of thyroid and pancreas function are recommended. This study aimed to report on a case of occurrence of corneal arcus in a canine. Case: A 6-year-old dog, of no defined breed, weighing 13.250 kg was attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade Federal de Alagoas with a 5-day history of constipation. Under ultrasound, fecaloma was observed; however, the finding that drew attention was the presence of an eye alteration presenting as bilateral opacity in the form of a vertical arc in the corneal regions, with whitish crystalline appearance. The lesion did not exhibit roughness or vascularization and had well-defined borders. The animal showed no discomfort or visual acuity changes. The tutor reported that the marks had already been on the animal’s eye when it was adopted four years age, and that it showed a slow progressive growth. Given that there were no clinical signs of metabolic or hormonal diseases that could be a primary cause for the formation of the corneal lesion, lipid or calcium deposition in the corneal stroma was suspected, possibly due to diet or idiopathic cause. Blood samples were collected for a blood count and to determine triglyceride, calcium, and cholesterol levels. Based on the test results (all within the normal range), history, and a physical examination (with no evidence of metabolic and/or endocrine diseases), a diagnosis of corneal arcus...

Arco corneano bilateral em canino / Bilateral corneal arcus in canine

Background: The cornea is a component of the animals eye that is transparent in appearance because of the arrangement of collagen fibrils and the absence of vascularization and pigmentation. Corneal degeneration can result in a lesion known as corneal arcus, which presents as loss of transparency. It is characterized by a dense white opacity with defined borders. This lesion can be caused by lipid keratopathy, occurring as cholesterol and triglyceride deposits in the corneal stroma. In this case, analysis of the serum lipid profile and evaluation of thyroid and pancreas function are recommended. This study aimed to report on a case of occurrence of corneal arcus in a canine. Case: A 6-year-old dog, of no defined breed, weighing 13.250 kg was attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade Federal de Alagoas with a 5-day history of constipation. Under ultrasound, fecaloma was observed; however, the finding that drew attention was the presence of an eye alteration presenting as bilateral opacity in the form of a vertical arc in the corneal regions, with whitish crystalline appearance. The lesion did not exhibit roughness or vascularization and had well-defined borders. The animal showed no discomfort or visual acuity changes. The tutor reported that the marks had already been on the animals eye when it was adopted four years age, and that it showed a slow progressive growth. Given that there were no clinical signs of metabolic or hormonal diseases that could be a primary cause for the formation of the corneal lesion, lipid or calcium deposition in the corneal stroma was suspected, possibly due to diet or idiopathic cause. Blood samples were collected for a blood count and to determine triglyceride, calcium, and cholesterol levels. Based on the test results (all within the normal range), history, and a physical examination (with no evidence of metabolic and/or endocrine diseases), a diagnosis of corneal arcus...(AU)

Efeito de dois sistemas de resfriamento sobre os hormônios tireoidianos e as variáveis termofisiológicas de matrizes suínas em lactação / Effect of two cooling systems on thyroid hormones and thermophysiological variables of lactating sows

Avaliaram-se os efeitos do sistema de resfriamento evaporativo com pressão negativa (SRE) e aspersão de água sobre o telhado (AAT), as variáveis termofisiológicas, os hormônios tireoidianos e a relação neutrófilo:linfócito (N:L) em porcas. Utilizaram-se 61 fêmeas em lactação, que foram divididas nos dois ambientes térmicos, sendo 30 em SRE e 31 em AAT, no verão. A temperatura e a umidade do ar, a frequência respiratória (FR), as temperaturas de superfície (TS) e retal (TR), a concentração de tiroxina e de tri-iodotironina, o número de neutrófilos e linfócitos e a relação N:L foram determinados. A temperatura ambiente pela manhã foi menor em SRE que em AAT (22,1ºC vs. 23,5ºC) e pela tarde (24,8ºC vs. 28,0ºC). Em ambos os períodos, a FR, a TS e a TR foram menores em SRE (de manhã 49 resp.min-1, 31,1ºC e 38,5ºC, respectivamente, e à tarde 55 resp.min-1, 30,3ºC e 38,8ºC, respectivamente) que em AAT (de manhã 54 resp.min-1, 32,8ºC e 38,6ºC, respectivamente; e à tarde 65 resp.min-1, 31,4ºC e 39,1ºC, respectivamente). Animais sob galpão AAT apresentaram menores concentrações de T4 que animais sob SRE (37,84 vs. 42,22nmol.L-1). Em ambiente tropical, no verão, porcas lactantes de ambos os sistemas mantêm a homeotermia.(AU)

The effects of the evaporative cooling system with negative pressure (ECS) and water spray on the roof (WSR) on physiological variables, thyroid hormones and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (N:L) in lactating sows were evaluated. Sixty-one lactating females were divided in the two thermal environments, being 30 in SRE and 31 in the AAT shed in the summer. The air temperature and humidity, respiratory frequency (RF), surface temperatures (ST) and rectal (RT), serum thyroxine and triiodothyronine concentration, number of neutrophils and lymphocytes and the N/L ratio were determined. In the afternoon, the matrices in ECS (Tar: 25.0°C and THI: 74.7) and WSR (Tar: 27.6°C and THI: 77.3) were exposed to heat stress. In the morning, RF, ST and RT were lower in ECS (49 breaths.min -1 , 31.1°C and 38.5°C, respectively) than WSR (54 breaths.min -1 , 32.8°C and 38.6°C) and also in the afternoon ECS (55 breaths.min -1 , 30.3°C and 38.8°C, respectively) and WSR (65 breaths.min -1 , 31.4°C and 39.1°C, respectively). Animals under WSR shed presented lower concentrations of T4 than animals under ECS (37.84 vs 42.22nmol.L -1 ). In a tropical environment, in the summer, lactating sows of both systems maintain homeothermia.(AU)

Efeito de dois sistemas de resfriamento sobre os hormônios tireoidianos e as variáveis termofisiológicas de matrizes suínas em lactação / Effect of two cooling systems on thyroid hormones and thermophysiological variables of lactating sows

Avaliaram-se os efeitos do sistema de resfriamento evaporativo com pressão negativa (SRE) e aspersão de água sobre o telhado (AAT), as variáveis termofisiológicas, os hormônios tireoidianos e a relação neutrófilo:linfócito (N:L) em porcas. Utilizaram-se 61 fêmeas em lactação, que foram divididas nos dois ambientes térmicos, sendo 30 em SRE e 31 em AAT, no verão. A temperatura e a umidade do ar, a frequência respiratória (FR), as temperaturas de superfície (TS) e retal (TR), a concentração de tiroxina e de tri-iodotironina, o número de neutrófilos e linfócitos e a relação N:L foram determinados. A temperatura ambiente pela manhã foi menor em SRE que em AAT (22,1ºC vs. 23,5ºC) e pela tarde (24,8ºC vs. 28,0ºC). Em ambos os períodos, a FR, a TS e a TR foram menores em SRE (de manhã 49 resp.min-1, 31,1ºC e 38,5ºC, respectivamente, e à tarde 55 resp.min-1, 30,3ºC e 38,8ºC, respectivamente) que em AAT (de manhã 54 resp.min-1, 32,8ºC e 38,6ºC, respectivamente; e à tarde 65 resp.min-1, 31,4ºC e 39,1ºC, respectivamente). Animais sob galpão AAT apresentaram menores concentrações de T4 que animais sob SRE (37,84 vs. 42,22nmol.L-1). Em ambiente tropical, no verão, porcas lactantes de ambos os sistemas mantêm a homeotermia.(AU)

The effects of the evaporative cooling system with negative pressure (ECS) and water spray on the roof (WSR) on physiological variables, thyroid hormones and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (N:L) in lactating sows were evaluated. Sixty-one lactating females were divided in the two thermal environments, being 30 in SRE and 31 in the AAT shed in the summer. The air temperature and humidity, respiratory frequency (RF), surface temperatures (ST) and rectal (RT), serum thyroxine and triiodothyronine concentration, number of neutrophils and lymphocytes and the N/L ratio were determined. In the afternoon, the matrices in ECS (Tar: 25.0°C and THI: 74.7) and WSR (Tar: 27.6°C and THI: 77.3) were exposed to heat stress. In the morning, RF, ST and RT were lower in ECS (49 breaths.min -1 , 31.1°C and 38.5°C, respectively) than WSR (54 breaths.min -1 , 32.8°C and 38.6°C) and also in the afternoon ECS (55 breaths.min -1 , 30.3°C and 38.8°C, respectively) and WSR (65 breaths.min -1 , 31.4°C and 39.1°C, respectively). Animals under WSR shed presented lower concentrations of T4 than animals under ECS (37.84 vs 42.22nmol.L -1 ). In a tropical environment, in the summer, lactating sows of both systems maintain homeothermia.(AU)

Picrosirius red and Masson’s Trichrome staining techniques as tools for detection of collagen fibers in the skin of dogs with endocrine dermatopathologies / Picrosirius red e Tricrômico de Masson como ferramentas para detecção de fibras colágenas em pele de cães com dermatopatologias endócrinas

Canine endocrinopathies, such as hypothyroidism and hyperadrenocortism,induce typical dermatological alterations. Collagen fibers are significant for the maintenance of structural integrity,as well as in the determination of tissue function. This study aimed at assessing the coloration caused by Picrosirius Red staining under circular polarization and Masson Trichrome staining, as tools to quantify the total collagen in the skin of dogs exhibiting endocrine dermatopathies. Skin samples taken from dogs with hypothyroidism and hyperadrenocorticism were stained using Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE), Masson’s Trichrome (MT) and Picrosirius Red (PSR). The animals with hyperadrenocorticism revealed a higher percentage of collagen area than did the animals with hypothyroidism PSRp (hypothyroidism = 43.76 ± 0.8255 and hyperadrenocorticism = 47.08 ± 0.8584). The percentage of the collagen area using MT between the groups is given in parenthesis (hypothyroidism = 52.06 ± 0.9371, hyperadrenocorticism = 61 ± 0.7529 and control = 56.88 ± 0.64) (p <0.05). It is therefore, evident that the special stains employed are useful in estimating the percentage of collagen area in the skin, as they revealed that dogs with hypothyroidism had lower collagen deposition whereas those animals with hyperadrenocorticism showed higher quantity of collagen in the dermis.

Endocrinopatias caninas como hipotireoidismo e o hiperadrenocortismo causam alterações dermatológicas características. As fibras de colágeno desempenham um papel vital na manutenção da integridade estrutural e também na determinação da função dos tecidos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as colorações de picrosirius red sob polarização circular e coloração tricômio de Masson como ferramentas para quantificar o colágeno total da pele de cães com dermatopatias endócrinas. Amostras de pele obtidas de cães com hipotireoidismo e hiperadrenocorticismo foram coradas por Hematoxilina e Eosina (HE), Tricrômio de Masson (MT) e Picrosirius red (PSR). A porcentagem de área de colágeno foi maior nos animais com hiperadrenocorticismo e menor nos animais com hipotireoidismo PSRp (hipotireoidismo = 43,76 ± 0.8255 e hiperadrenocorticismo = 47,08 ± 0.8584). Já a porcentagem de área de colágeno no MT entre os grupos (hipotireoidismo = 52,06 ± 0.9371, hiperadrenocorticismo = 61 ± 0,7529 e controle = 56,88 ± 0.64) (p <0.05). Concluiu-se que as colorações especiais utilizadas são úteis para avaliar a porcentagem de área de colágeno na pele, pois demonstraram que cães com hipotireoidismo demonstraram uma diminuição na deposição de colágeno e os animais com hiperadrenocorticismo apresentaram maior quantidade de colágeno na derme.

Picrosirius red and Massons Trichrome staining techniques as tools for detection of collagen fibers in the skin of dogs with endocrine dermatopathologies / Picrosirius red e Tricrômico de Masson como ferramentas para detecção de fibras colágenas em pele de cães com dermatopatologias endócrinas

Canine endocrinopathies, such as hypothyroidism and hyperadrenocortism,induce typical dermatological alterations. Collagen fibers are significant for the maintenance of structural integrity,as well as in the determination of tissue function. This study aimed at assessing the coloration caused by Picrosirius Red staining under circular polarization and Masson Trichrome staining, as tools to quantify the total collagen in the skin of dogs exhibiting endocrine dermatopathies. Skin samples taken from dogs with hypothyroidism and hyperadrenocorticism were stained using Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE), Massons Trichrome (MT) and Picrosirius Red (PSR). The animals with hyperadrenocorticism revealed a higher percentage of collagen area than did the animals with hypothyroidism PSRp (hypothyroidism = 43.76 ± 0.8255 and hyperadrenocorticism = 47.08 ± 0.8584). The percentage of the collagen area using MT between the groups is given in parenthesis (hypothyroidism = 52.06 ± 0.9371, hyperadrenocorticism = 61 ± 0.7529 and control = 56.88 ± 0.64) (p <0.05). It is therefore, evident that the special stains employed are useful in estimating the percentage of collagen area in the skin, as they revealed that dogs with hypothyroidism had lower collagen deposition whereas those animals with hyperadrenocorticism showed higher quantity of collagen in the dermis.(AU)

Endocrinopatias caninas como hipotireoidismo e o hiperadrenocortismo causam alterações dermatológicas características. As fibras de colágeno desempenham um papel vital na manutenção da integridade estrutural e também na determinação da função dos tecidos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as colorações de picrosirius red sob polarização circular e coloração tricômio de Masson como ferramentas para quantificar o colágeno total da pele de cães com dermatopatias endócrinas. Amostras de pele obtidas de cães com hipotireoidismo e hiperadrenocorticismo foram coradas por Hematoxilina e Eosina (HE), Tricrômio de Masson (MT) e Picrosirius red (PSR). A porcentagem de área de colágeno foi maior nos animais com hiperadrenocorticismo e menor nos animais com hipotireoidismo PSRp (hipotireoidismo = 43,76 ± 0.8255 e hiperadrenocorticismo = 47,08 ± 0.8584). Já a porcentagem de área de colágeno no MT entre os grupos (hipotireoidismo = 52,06 ± 0.9371, hiperadrenocorticismo = 61 ± 0,7529 e controle = 56,88 ± 0.64) (p <0.05). Concluiu-se que as colorações especiais utilizadas são úteis para avaliar a porcentagem de área de colágeno na pele, pois demonstraram que cães com hipotireoidismo demonstraram uma diminuição na deposição de colágeno e os animais com hiperadrenocorticismo apresentaram maior quantidade de colágeno na derme.(AU)

Manejo reproductivo de un centro de reproduccion canina en Argentina / Manejo reprodutivo de centro de reprodução canina na Argentina

Com vista a ter sucesso na gestão de um canil, é necessário conseguir elevados índices de gestação, ninhadas numerosas, assim como baixos níveis de mortalidade neonatal e ter o maior número de filhotes viáveis no momento do desmame. Um protocolo minucioso de admissão prévio dos reprodutores deve ser realizado, incluindo exaustivos exames sanitários (ex: brucelose, leptospirose, Herpesvirus) e incluindo exames que nos permitam assegurar um bom estado de saúde dos reprodutores (ex: perfil bioquímico, hormonios tiroideanos, cultura de vagina cranial). É importante conhecer o status andrológico do macho, por meio da avaliação da qualidade seminal (espermograma), assim como determinar o momento de ovulação (por meio de citologia vaginal, dosagem sérica de LH e progesterona, ecografia ovariana, vaginoscopia) e realizar a técnica de reprodução assistida mais adequada, se utilizar sêmen fresco (intra-vaginal profunda) ou sêmen refrigerado/congelado (TCI).

In order to carry out a canine breeding successful management, it is necessary to achieve high pregnancy rates, numerous litters and low rates of neonatal mortality, thus being able to wean as many puppies as possible. A thorough brood stock admission protocol should be carried out, including exhaustive sanitary controls (brucellosis, leptospirosis, herpesvirus), controls that allow us to corroborate an optimal health condition of the breeders (biochemical profile, thyroid hormones, vaginal culture). It is necessary to know the semen quality (spermogram) and the ovulation time (vaginal cytology, LH and progesterone assay, ovarian ultrasound, vaginoscopy) and perform the service by artificial insemination with the appropriate technique depending on whether it is fresh (vagina fundus) refrigerated or frozen (TCI) semen.(AU)

Manejo reproductivo de un centro de reproduccion canina en Argentina / Manejo reprodutivo de centro de reprodução canina na Argentina

Com vista a ter sucesso na gestão de um canil, é necessário conseguir elevados índices de gestação, ninhadas numerosas, assim como baixos níveis de mortalidade neonatal e ter o maior número de filhotes viáveis no momento do desmame. Um protocolo minucioso de admissão prévio dos reprodutores deve ser realizado, incluindo exaustivos exames sanitários (ex: brucelose, leptospirose, Herpesvirus) e incluindo exames que nos permitam assegurar um bom estado de saúde dos reprodutores (ex: perfil bioquímico, hormonios tiroideanos, cultura de vagina cranial). É importante conhecer o status andrológico do macho, por meio da avaliação da qualidade seminal (espermograma), assim como determinar o momento de ovulação (por meio de citologia vaginal, dosagem sérica de LH e progesterona, ecografia ovariana, vaginoscopia) e realizar a técnica de reprodução assistida mais adequada, se utilizar sêmen fresco (intra-vaginal profunda) ou sêmen refrigerado/congelado (TCI).

In order to carry out a canine breeding successful management, it is necessary to achieve high pregnancy rates, numerous litters and low rates of neonatal mortality, thus being able to wean as many puppies as possible. A thorough brood stock admission protocol should be carried out, including exhaustive sanitary controls (brucellosis, leptospirosis, herpesvirus), controls that allow us to corroborate an optimal health condition of the breeders (biochemical profile, thyroid hormones, vaginal culture). It is necessary to know the semen quality (spermogram) and the ovulation time (vaginal cytology, LH and progesterone assay, ovarian ultrasound, vaginoscopy) and perform the service by artificial insemination with the appropriate technique depending on whether it is fresh (vagina fundus) refrigerated or frozen (TCI) semen.

Effect of Egg Weight on External and Internal Qualities, Physiological and Hatching Success of Japanese Quail Eggs (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of egg weight and egg physical characteristics on embryonic development, hatchability, and hatchling weight of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica). In total, 689 eggs were classified in two categories: small ( 13.5 g) or large (13.5 g), and different external eggshell and internal quality traits were measured. On days 6 and 14 of incubation, tissue triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) were extracted from embryos in both egg sizes and analyzed. Relative to internal egg-quality traits, large eggs had significantly higher yolk height, yolk diameter, yolk weight, albumen height, and albumen weight than small eggs (p0.01). However, Haugh unit score (p=0.27) was not significantly different between the two egg sizes. Relative to eggshell quality parameters, large eggs had significantly higher total pore count, surface area, eggshell volume, and eggshell weight than small eggs (p0.05), with consequent higher hatchability rate and hatchling weight. Pearsons correlation coefficients revealed significant correlations (p0.05) between egg weight and different external and internal egg quality parameters. Thyroid hormone levels were not significantly different between egg groups on d 6 day, while on d 14, a significant difference was recorded (p0.05). In conclusion, larger egg sizes are recommended to obtain better hatchability, lower embryonic death rates, and heavier hatchlings compared with smaller eggs of Japanese quails.(AU)

Effect of Egg Weight on External and Internal Qualities, Physiological and Hatching Success of Japanese Quail Eggs (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of egg weight and egg physical characteristics on embryonic development, hatchability, and hatchling weight of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica). In total, 689 eggs were classified in two categories: small ( 13.5 g) or large (13.5 g), and different external eggshell and internal quality traits were measured. On days 6 and 14 of incubation, tissue triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) were extracted from embryos in both egg sizes and analyzed. Relative to internal egg-quality traits, large eggs had significantly higher yolk height, yolk diameter, yolk weight, albumen height, and albumen weight than small eggs (p0.01). However, Haugh unit score (p=0.27) was not significantly different between the two egg sizes. Relative to eggshell quality parameters, large eggs had significantly higher total pore count, surface area, eggshell volume, and eggshell weight than small eggs (p0.05), with consequent higher hatchability rate and hatchling weight. Pearsons correlation coefficients revealed significant correlations (p0.05) between egg weight and different external and internal egg quality parameters. Thyroid hormone levels were not significantly different between egg groups on d 6 day, while on d 14, a significant difference was recorded (p0.05). In conclusion, larger egg sizes are recommended to obtain better hatchability, lower embryonic death rates, and heavier hatchlings compared with smaller eggs of Japanese quails.

Perinatal mortality in cattle associated with goitre

The role of iodine in ruminant reproductive function is well known. However, studies about the impact of this deficiency in reproductive performance of cattle are scarce. This paper describes stillbirth episodes in three beef cow herds in northwest Argentina. The stillbirth losses ranged between 15.8 and 25%. Grossly, the thyroid glands presented diffuse, bilateral and symmetric enlargement. Microscopically, follicular epithelium showed severe hyperplasia and hypertrophy, forming multiple stratified layers of large cuboidal cells, with papillary projections into the follicular lumen. Free thyroxine (T4f) mean levels in serum from aborted cows and heifers was 0.63±0.05 ng/dl. A diagnosis of congenital goiter was performed based on these findings. Following the diagnosis, the herds were supplemented orally and parentally with iodine. Mean T4f level post-treatment was 0.80±0.05 ng/dl and the stillbirth rate dropped sharply.

Perinatal mortality in cattle associated with goitre

The role of iodine in ruminant reproductive function is well known. However, studies about the impact of this deficiency in reproductive performance of cattle are scarce. This paper describes stillbirth episodes in three beef cow herds in northwest Argentina. The stillbirth losses ranged between 15.8 and 25%. Grossly, the thyroid glands presented diffuse, bilateral and symmetric enlargement. Microscopically, follicular epithelium showed severe hyperplasia and hypertrophy, forming multiple stratified layers of large cuboidal cells, with papillary projections into the follicular lumen. Free thyroxine (T4f) mean levels in serum from aborted cows and heifers was 0.63±0.05 ng/dl. A diagnosis of congenital goiter was performed based on these findings. Following the diagnosis, the herds were supplemented orally and parentally with iodine. Mean T4f level post-treatment was 0.80±0.05 ng/dl and the stillbirth rate dropped sharply.(AU)

Impact of heat stress, nutritional stress and their combinations on the adaptive capability of Malpura sheep under hot semi-arid tropical environment

A study was conducted to assess the cumulative effects of combined stresses (heat and nutritional) on physiological adaptability, blood biochemical and endocrine responses in Malpura rams. The study was conducted for a period of 45 days. Twenty eight adult Malpura rams (average BW 66.0 Kg) were used in the present study. The rams were divided into four groups viz., CON (n=7; control), HS (n=7; heat stress), NS (n=7; nutritional stress) and CS (n=7; combined stress). The animals were stall fed with a diet consisting of 60% roughage and 40% concentrate. The CON and HS ewes were provided with ad libitum feeding while NS and CS rams were provided with restricted feed (30% intake of GI ewes) to induce nutritional stress. The HS and NS rams were kept in climatic chamber @ 42ºC and 55% RH for six hours a day between 10:00 hr to 16:00 hr to induce heat stress. The parameters studied were respiration rate (RR), pulse rate (PR), rectal temperature (RT), scrotal volume, sweating rate scrotum, sweating rate skin, haemoglobin (Hb) and packed cell volume (PCV), plasma cortisol, T3 (tri-iodo-thyronine), and T4 (thyroxin) level. Combined stresses significantly (P<0.01) influenced all adaptive parameters studied. The study shows that Malpura rams possess the adaptive capability to two stresses simultaneously. This is evident from the non-significant changes in RR, RT, sweating rate of scrotum and skin and Hb concentration between HS and CS groups. Further, the capability to adjust the cortisol level to minimum possible increase to elicit the heat stress relieving effects also proves the superior adaptive capability of Malpura rams to the effects of combined stresses.(AU)

Impact of heat stress, nutritional stress and their combinations on the adaptive capability of Malpura sheep under hot semi-arid tropical environment

A study was conducted to assess the cumulative effects of combined stresses (heat and nutritional) on physiological adaptability, blood biochemical and endocrine responses in Malpura rams. The study was conducted for a period of 45 days. Twenty eight adult Malpura rams (average BW 66.0 Kg) were used in the present study. The rams were divided into four groups viz., CON (n=7; control), HS (n=7; heat stress), NS (n=7; nutritional stress) and CS (n=7; combined stress). The animals were stall fed with a diet consisting of 60% roughage and 40% concentrate. The CON and HS ewes were provided with ad libitum feeding while NS and CS rams were provided with restricted feed (30% intake of GI ewes) to induce nutritional stress. The HS and NS rams were kept in climatic chamber @ 42ºC and 55% RH for six hours a day between 10:00 hr to 16:00 hr to induce heat stress. The parameters studied were respiration rate (RR), pulse rate (PR), rectal temperature (RT), scrotal volume, sweating rate scrotum, sweating rate skin, haemoglobin (Hb) and packed cell volume (PCV), plasma cortisol, T3 (tri-iodo-thyronine), and T4 (thyroxin) level. Combined stresses significantly (P<0.01) influenced all adaptive parameters studied. The study shows that Malpura rams possess the adaptive capability to two stresses simultaneously. This is evident from the non-significant changes in RR, RT, sweating rate of scrotum and skin and Hb concentration between HS and CS groups. Further, the capability to adjust the cortisol level to minimum possible increase to elicit the heat stress relieving effects also proves the superior adaptive capability of Malpura rams to the effects of combined stresses.