Cholangiocarcinoma in a bitch - multimodal diagnosis

Background: Hepatic tumors of primary origin account for 0.6% to 2.9% of cases in canine species, less common than hepatic metastases. The hepatic tumors are divided into hepatocellular tumors, neuroendocrine tumors, bile duct tumors or cholangiocarcinomas, and mesenchymal tumors. Cholangiocarcinomas, are classified according to their origin, being intrahepatic, extrahepatic, or gallbladder type. Cholangiocarcinomas are considered rare in dogs and cats with a ratio of 29% to 71% compared to hepatocellular carcinomas, accounting for 9% of the hepatic tumors. The present study aims to describe a case of cholangiocarcinoma in a bitch, focusing on the diagnostic approach. Case: A 10-year-old castrated bitch Poodle was attended presenting hypoglycemia and seizure crisis. The patient had previous exams of hemogram and serum biochemical profile, showing a discrete increase of the hepatic enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), besides hypoglycemia. Previous ultrasound exam revealed the presence of a hepatic mass located between the right and square lobes, immeasurable, and significant splenomegaly. Abdominal palpation revealed the presence of immeasurable abdominal formation of undetermined origin. Abdominal computerized tomography (CT), glycemic curve, and insulin dosage were requested. Tomography exam showed an increase in hepatic volume with the presence of a heterogeneous formation in the right lateral lobe topography; increase in spleen dimensions and the presence of multiple nodules; and the presence of a nodule in the right lung, at the caudal thoracic region. The glycemic curve showed acute variations, and insulin dosage was between normal values. The animal was referred for surgery, as in abdominocentesis, it was observed the presence of hemorrhagic fluid, confirming active bleeding by ultrasonography. The owners chose for euthanasia. In the post-mortem evaluation the main lesion was confirmed of hepatic origin, with a massive, irregular, cavitary presentation, involving multiple hepatic lobes, and a single nodule was observed in the right caudal lobe of the right lung. Histopathological evaluation was considered inconclusive. Immunohistochemistry was performed and the association of the immunohistochemical profile with the morphological characteristics indicated diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma. Discussion: The related symptomatology, in hepatic neoplasms, is generally considered non-specific, with reports of lethargy, vomiting, dyspnea, anorexia and weight loss, however, the dog in this study presented a unique manifestation of hypoglycemia and one episode of convulsive crisis resulting from it. The clinical manifestation observed was extremely unspecific making initial diagnosis difficult. The ultrasonographic examination was effective in evidencing the abdominal mass. In addition, abdominal CT was also performed, which confirmed the hepatic origin, detailing the macroscopic aspect. Biochemical analyses of ALT and AST showed a discrete increase. Biochemical changes may occur in dogs with hepatic neoplasms, although they are not specific. Functional pancreatic beta-cell tumors producing insulin are the most common cause of paraneoplastic hypoglycemia, although in the case the insulin dosage was within normal limits. In cases of nonislet cell tumor the mechanism is frequently associated with the production of insulin-like growth factor (IGF). In most cases the definitive diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma can be obtained by histopathological examination, although in the present report the result obtained was inconclusive, requiring an immunohistochemical examination. Due to the aggressive and metastatic character of this neoplastic type, early detection becomes extremely important in order to maximize therapeutic chances, however, diagnosis may be difficult.

Manufacture and performance of peanut skin cellulose nanocrystals

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

Ecomorphological relations of sympatric juveniles of clupeiformes from a brazilian sandy beach / Relações ecomorfológicas de juvenis simpátricos de clupeiformes de uma praia arenosa brasileira

Surf zones are important for early life stages of several fish species for presenting characteristics such as high phytoplanktonic production, diverse food availability and shelter against predators. The action of waves in this environment provides nutrient cycling and increase the turbidity making surf zones ideal nursery environments for diverse species of fish, including clupeiforms. Clupeiform species have a great ecological and economic value for being abundant fish in tropical sandy beaches surf zones with significant fisheries importance. Studies about their feeding ecology and environment use are relevant, and one of the methods improving this knowledge is the application of ecomorphological analyses, which helps understanding species ecological interactions and their adaptations. In this context, the present study aimed to identify the ecomorphological relations and infer about the feeding ecology of eight sympatric clupeiform species in a Brazilian tropical sandy beach. Ten ecomorphological variables were analyzed of individuals belonging to the species Anchoa tricolor (Spix & Agassiz, 1829), Anchoa januaria (Steindachner, 1879), Anchovia clupeoides (Swainson, 1839), Anchoviella lepidentostole (Fowler, 1911), Lycengraulis grossidens (Spix & Agassiz, 1829), Chirocentrodon bleekerianus (Poey, 1867), Harengula clupeola (Cuvier, 1829) and Opisthonema oglinum (Lesueur, 1818), whose values were employed in a principal component analysis (PCA) with the two first axis explaining 58.92% of the total variance. A high morphological overlap between the species of Engraulidae was observed with the exception of A. clupeoides, which differed from the others for presenting higher values of the compression index and caudal peduncle compression index. The Clupeidae species differed from the other families due to higher values of relative height and relative head length which also showed differences between the species themselves, having H. clupeola presented the highest values of these variables. The representative of Pristigasteridae showed an intermediate overlap between the species of the other families because of its highly compressed body but with low scores of relative height, caudal peduncle relative length and mouth aspect ratio. The morphological differentiation between the families and even between species from the same family indicates niche divergences, showing that besides their phylogenetical proximity there are differences in their ecological interactions which possibly contribute to their coexistence.

Zonas de arrebentação são importantes para os estágios iniciais de várias espécies de peixes por apresentarem características como alta produção fitoplanctônica, disponibilidade alimentar diversificada e abrigo contra predadores. A ação das ondas nestes ambientes proporciona a ciclagem de nutrientes e eleva a turbidez, tornando as zonas de arrebentação ambientes de berçário ideais para diversas espécies de peixes, incluindo os clupeiformes. Espécies de Clupeiformes possuem alto valor ecológico e econômico, por serem peixes abundantes em zonas de arrebentação em praias arenosas tropicais com significativa importância pesqueira. Estudos sobre sua ecologia alimentar e utilização do ambiente são relevantes, e um dos métodos para aprimorar este conhecimento é a aplicação de análises ecomorfológicas, que auxiliam no entendimento das interações ecológicas das espécies e suas adaptações. Nesse contexto, o presente estudo teve como objetivo identificar as relações ecomorfológicas e inferir sobre a ecologia alimentar de oito espécies de clupeiformes simpátricas em uma praia arenosa tropical Brasileira. Foram analisadas dez variáveis ecomorfológicas de indivíduos pertencentes as espécies Anchoa tricolor (Spix & Agassiz, 1829), Anchoa januaria (Steindachner, 1879), Anchovia clupeoides (Swainson, 1839), Anchoviella lepidentostole (Fowler, 1911), Lycengraulis grossidens (Spix & Agassiz, 1829), Chirocentrodon bleekerianus (Poey, 1867), Harengula clupeola (Cuvier, 1829) e Opisthonema oglinum (Lesueur, 1818), cujos valores foram empregados em uma análise de componentes principais (PCA) com os dois primeiros eixos explicando 58,92% da variância total. Uma elevada sobreposição morfológica entre as espécies de Engraulidae foi observada, com exceção de A. clupeoides, que se diferenciou das demais por apresentar maiores valores do índice de compressão e índice de compressão do pedúnculo caudal. As espécies de Clupeidae diferiram das demais famílias devido aos elevados valores de altura relativa e comprimento relativo da cabeça, o que também mostrou diferenças entre as próprias espécies, tendo H. clupeola apresentado maiores valores destas variáveis. O representante de Pristigasteridae apresentou sobreposição intermediária entre as espécies das demais famílias, devido ao seu corpo altamente comprimido, mas com baixos escores de altura relativa, comprimento relativo do pedúnculo e aspecto da boca. A diferenciação morfológica entre as famílias, e até mesmo entre espécies de uma mesma família, indica divergências de nicho, mostrando que apesar de sua proximidade filogenética, existem diferenças em suas interações ecológicas, possivelmente contribuindo para a sua coexistência.

Hyponatremia in sheep in Northeastern Brazil / Hiponatremia em ovinos no Nordeste do Brasil

Mineral deficiencies are important causes of productive losses in ruminant farming, especially in semiarid regions. This study aimed to determine Na, K, and Cl serum concentrations, plus the salivary concentrations of Na and K in sheep raised in a semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil, and to report the epidemiology, clinical and the pathological aspects of an outbreak of hyponatremia in sheep. For this, serum and salivary samples of 55 sheep were collected in 6 different farms in the region. Na, K, and Cl concentrations were determined by colorimetric test, using commercial kits in a semi-automatic biochemical analyzer. The mean serum concentrations ranged from 131.5±13.1mEq/L to 172.4±9.3mEq/L for Na, 6.28±1.3mEq/L to 13.9±1.4mEq/L for K, and 91.6±54.8mEq/L to 113.6±1.5mEq/L for Cl. The mean salivary concentrations ranged from 119.4±9.5mEq/L to 161.8±15.2mEq/L for Na, 10.1±3.1mEq/L to 22.3±2.3mEq/L for K, and the ratio Na:K ranged from 6.0±1.3mEq/L to 11.8±4.1mEq/L. These results revealed that most sheep raised in the farms in this region are marginally depleted in sodium. In one farm, sheep had severe clinical signs of Na deficiency consisting of haggard appearance, craving for salt, polydipsia, polyuria, dry cough, inappetence, pica, weakness, difficulty to rise and move, severe emaciation, and dehydration. On autopsy, the ruminal content was generally impacted, giving to the content an aspect of clay balls. Four sheep presented hypertrophy of the adrenal glands. Histopathologically, the width of the zona glomerulosa was expanded, there was loss of the architecture and loss of adrenocortical cell cords. The epithelial cells in the zona glomerulosa and fasciculata were pyramidal, and contained hypereosinophilic cytoplasm and hyperchromatic nuclei. These data demonstrate the occurrence of Na deficiency in different degrees in sheep farms in the State of Pernambuco and highlight the importance of providing NaCl to avoid outbreaks of hyponatremia.

Deficiências minerais são importantes causas de perdas produtivas em criações de ruminantes, sobretudo em regiões semiáridas. Este trabalho teve como objetivo determinar as concentrações séricas de Na, K e Cl, além das concentrações salivares de Na e K em ovinos criados em uma região semiárida do Nordeste do Brasil e relatar a epidemiologia e os aspectos clínicos e patológicos de um surto de hiponatremia severa em ovinos. Para isso, amostras de soro e saliva de 55 ovinos foram coletadas em 6 diferentes fazendas da região. As concentrações de Na, K e Cl foram determinadas por teste colorimétrico, utilizando kits comerciais em analisador bioquímico semiautomático. As concentrações séricas médias variaram de 131,5±13,1mEq/L a 172,4±9,3mEq/L para Na, 6,28±1,3mEq/L a 13,9±1,4mEq/L para K e 91,6±54,8mEq/L a 113,6±1,5mEq/L para Cl. As concentrações salivares médias variaram de 119,4±9,5mEq/L a 161,8±15,2mEq/L para Na, 10,1±3,1mEq/L a 22,3±2,3mEq/L para K, e a razão Na: K variou de 6,0±1,3mEq/L a 11,8±4,1mEq/L. Esses resultados revelaram que a maioria dos ovinos criados nas fazendas desta região são marginalmente sódio deficientes. Em uma fazenda, os ovinos apresentavam um quadro clínico grave de deficiência de Na. Os principais sinais clínicos consistiam em apatia, avidez por sal, polidipsia, poliúria, tosse seca, inapetência, pica, fraqueza, dificuldade de se levantar e se locomover, emagrecimento e desidratação. À necropsia, o conteúdo ruminal estava geralmente compactado, dando ao conteúdo um aspecto de bolas de argila. Quatro ovelhas apresentaram hipertrofia das glândulas adrenais. Histopatologicamente, a zona glomerulosa apresentava-se espessa, com perda da arquitetura e desarranjo dos cordões celulares. As células epiteliais da zona glomerulosa e fasciculada eram piramidais, apresentavam citoplasma hipereosinofílico e continham núcleos hipercromáticos. Esses dados demonstram a ocorrência de deficiência de Na em diferentes graus em criações de ovinos no Estado de Pernambuco e evidencia a importância do fornecimento de NaCl para a prevenção de surtos de hiponatremia.

Morphological divergences as drivers of diet segregation between two sympatric species of Serrapinnus (Characidae: Cheirodontinae) in macrophyte stands in a neotropical floodplain lake

Diet and morphology of Serrapinnus notomelas and Serrapinnus sp.1 were investigated across ontogeny, as a way to elucidate the key elements linked to the resource partitioning (a main driver for species coexistence). Fish sampling was conducted monthly between October 2010 and March 2012. Individuals were captured, identified, and classified into juvenile or adult. Our results show ontogenetic and interspecific differences in feeding abilities and morphological traits. Differences in body shape (relative area of the dorsal fin, length of head, height of the caudal peduncle, the aspect ratio of the pectoral and pelvic fin) favored divergent swimming performances (more maneuverability in S. notomelas and continuous swimming to Serrapinnus sp.1). We also observed divergences in trophic apparatus traits and correlations with different diets. In this context, it is highlighted that understanding the relationship between morphology and diet can assist in elucidating the processes that permeate the coexistence between sympatric species, and between ontogenetic periods. Besides, the relevant contribution of the measures of the trophic apparatus (gill raker length, the number of teeth cuspids, and intestinal coefficient) in trophic segregation seems to be a strong evidence in favor of the proposed discriminatory and predictive capacities of these traits.(AU)

Dieta e morfologia de Serrapinnus notomelas e Serrapinnus sp.1 foram investigadas ao longo da ontogenia, como forma de elucidar os principais elementos ligados à partição de recursos (principal fator para a coexistência entre espécies). Foram realizadas coletas de peixes mensalmente entre outubro de 2010 e março de 2012. Os indivíduos foram capturados, identificados e classificados em juvenis ou adultos. Nossos resultados mostram diferenças ontogenéticas e interespecíficas na alimentação e características morfológicas. Diferenças na forma corporal (área da nadadeira dorsal, comprimento da cabeça, altura do pedúnculo caudal, proporção das nadadeiras peitorais e pélvicas) favoreceram desempenhos de natação divergentes (maior manobrabilidade para S. notomelas e natação contínua para Serrapinnus sp.1). Também observamos divergências nas características do aparato trófico e correlações com diferentes dietas. Nesse contexto, destaca-se que compreender a relação entre morfologia e dieta pode auxiliar na elucidação dos processos que permeiam a coexistência entre espécies simpátricas e entre períodos ontogenéticos. Além disso, a relevante contribuição das medidas do aparato trófico (número de cúspide nos dentes, rastros branquiais e coeficiente intestinal) na segregação trófica parece ser uma forte evidência a favor das propostas de capacidades discriminatórias e preditivas dessas características.(AU)

Morphological divergences as drivers of diet segregation between two sympatric species of Serrapinnus (Characidae: Cheirodontinae) in macrophyte stands in a neotropical floodplain lake

Diet and morphology of Serrapinnus notomelas and Serrapinnus sp.1 were investigated across ontogeny, as a way to elucidate the key elements linked to the resource partitioning (a main driver for species coexistence). Fish sampling was conducted monthly between October 2010 and March 2012. Individuals were captured, identified, and classified into juvenile or adult. Our results show ontogenetic and interspecific differences in feeding abilities and morphological traits. Differences in body shape (relative area of the dorsal fin, length of head, height of the caudal peduncle, the aspect ratio of the pectoral and pelvic fin) favored divergent swimming performances (more maneuverability in S. notomelas and continuous swimming to Serrapinnus sp.1). We also observed divergences in trophic apparatus traits and correlations with different diets. In this context, it is highlighted that understanding the relationship between morphology and diet can assist in elucidating the processes that permeate the coexistence between sympatric species, and between ontogenetic periods. Besides, the relevant contribution of the measures of the trophic apparatus (gill raker length, the number of teeth cuspids, and intestinal coefficient) in trophic segregation seems to be a strong evidence in favor of the proposed discriminatory and predictive capacities of these traits.(AU)

Dieta e morfologia de Serrapinnus notomelas e Serrapinnus sp.1 foram investigadas ao longo da ontogenia, como forma de elucidar os principais elementos ligados à partição de recursos (principal fator para a coexistência entre espécies). Foram realizadas coletas de peixes mensalmente entre outubro de 2010 e março de 2012. Os indivíduos foram capturados, identificados e classificados em juvenis ou adultos. Nossos resultados mostram diferenças ontogenéticas e interespecíficas na alimentação e características morfológicas. Diferenças na forma corporal (área da nadadeira dorsal, comprimento da cabeça, altura do pedúnculo caudal, proporção das nadadeiras peitorais e pélvicas) favoreceram desempenhos de natação divergentes (maior manobrabilidade para S. notomelas e natação contínua para Serrapinnus sp.1). Também observamos divergências nas características do aparato trófico e correlações com diferentes dietas. Nesse contexto, destaca-se que compreender a relação entre morfologia e dieta pode auxiliar na elucidação dos processos que permeiam a coexistência entre espécies simpátricas e entre períodos ontogenéticos. Além disso, a relevante contribuição das medidas do aparato trófico (número de cúspide nos dentes, rastros branquiais e coeficiente intestinal) na segregação trófica parece ser uma forte evidência a favor das propostas de capacidades discriminatórias e preditivas dessas características.(AU)

Seroprevalence and influence of bovine leukemia virus on the incidence of mastitis in dairy herds

Background: The enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) is a viral disease with a chronic aspect and its etiological agent is anoncogenic deltaretrovirus called bovine leukemia virus (VLB). It has a wide distribution in dairy cattle herds, and it maytake several years before the first clinical manifestations occur. Animals seropositive for VLB are more susceptible todeveloping infectious diseases such as mastitis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of EBL, theprevalence of mastitis, the possible association between leukosis and mastitis, and the risk factors related to leukosis inmunicipalities of the Caparaó region of Espírito Santo, Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: The prevalence of enzootic bovine leukosis and its association with mastitis were evaluatedin an 854 clinically healthy crossbred (Bos tauros tauros x Bos taurus indicus) dairy cows were used, in different lactationphases, from farms located in the 12 municipalities that compose the Caparaó Capixaba micro-region, in the southernpart of Espírito Santo, Brazil, in the period from February to December 2015. The seroprevalence of EBL was determinedby the agar gel immunodiffusion test, the presence of clinical mastitis was ascertained by the black background mug testand of subclinical mastitis by the CMT. The reuse of needles, type of milking, reproductive management, calf mortality,presence of reproductive problems and milk yield were the risk factors assessed. The association between the variableswas estimated by the odds ratio (95% confidence interval). The significance of the associations was determined by theChi-square test. The prevalence of EBL, clinical and subclinical mastitis was 56.79%, 5.50% and 43.55%, respectively.There was a positive association between the EBL virus and the presence of...

Seroprevalence and influence of bovine leukemia virus on the incidence of mastitis in dairy herds

Background: The enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) is a viral disease with a chronic aspect and its etiological agent is anoncogenic deltaretrovirus called bovine leukemia virus (VLB). It has a wide distribution in dairy cattle herds, and it maytake several years before the first clinical manifestations occur. Animals seropositive for VLB are more susceptible todeveloping infectious diseases such as mastitis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of EBL, theprevalence of mastitis, the possible association between leukosis and mastitis, and the risk factors related to leukosis inmunicipalities of the Caparaó region of Espírito Santo, Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: The prevalence of enzootic bovine leukosis and its association with mastitis were evaluatedin an 854 clinically healthy crossbred (Bos tauros tauros x Bos taurus indicus) dairy cows were used, in different lactationphases, from farms located in the 12 municipalities that compose the Caparaó Capixaba micro-region, in the southernpart of Espírito Santo, Brazil, in the period from February to December 2015. The seroprevalence of EBL was determinedby the agar gel immunodiffusion test, the presence of clinical mastitis was ascertained by the black background mug testand of subclinical mastitis by the CMT. The reuse of needles, type of milking, reproductive management, calf mortality,presence of reproductive problems and milk yield were the risk factors assessed. The association between the variableswas estimated by the odds ratio (95% confidence interval). The significance of the associations was determined by theChi-square test. The prevalence of EBL, clinical and subclinical mastitis was 56.79%, 5.50% and 43.55%, respectively.There was a positive association between the EBL virus and the presence of...(AU)

Morphological and physiological changes during maturation of okra seeds evaluated through image analysis

This study was performed to associate specific morphological parameters, defined by X-ray images, with seed performance of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) during maturation. Fruits of cultivar Santa Cruz 47 at different developmental stages were collected at five-day intervals (from 5 to 65 days after anthesis) and water content, dry matter, germination and vigor were determined in seeds extracted immediately after each harvest or after temporary storage for seven days. X-ray tests were also performed after each harvest and the images were analyzed by ImageJ® software to produce data of aspect ratio (relation between major and minor axes of the ellipse surrounding the seed perimeter) and percentage of free space area in the inner seed cavity. Physiological maturity (maximum accumulation of dry matter) was reached at 30 days after anthesis (DAA), when seed water content was 56.6 %. Seed germination and vigor increased during maturation, achieving the maximum at 50 DAA. Seeds showed morphological changes during maturation, becoming more spherical (aspect ratio near 1.0); at the same time, the free space available in the inner cavity of the seed decreased. This parameter can be successfully used as a marker of physiological maturity when values equal or lower than 5 % are reached.

Morphological and physiological changes during maturation of okra seeds evaluated through image analysis

This study was performed to associate specific morphological parameters, defined by X-ray images, with seed performance of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) during maturation. Fruits of cultivar Santa Cruz 47 at different developmental stages were collected at five-day intervals (from 5 to 65 days after anthesis) and water content, dry matter, germination and vigor were determined in seeds extracted immediately after each harvest or after temporary storage for seven days. X-ray tests were also performed after each harvest and the images were analyzed by ImageJ® software to produce data of aspect ratio (relation between major and minor axes of the ellipse surrounding the seed perimeter) and percentage of free space area in the inner seed cavity. Physiological maturity (maximum accumulation of dry matter) was reached at 30 days after anthesis (DAA), when seed water content was 56.6 %. Seed germination and vigor increased during maturation, achieving the maximum at 50 DAA. Seeds showed morphological changes during maturation, becoming more spherical (aspect ratio near 1.0); at the same time, the free space available in the inner cavity of the seed decreased. This parameter can be successfully used as a marker of physiological maturity when values equal or lower than 5 % are reached.(AU)

La efectividad de una ley de protección al servicio de la conservación de un recurso marino: El ejemplo del camarón fantasma Callichirus major (Decapoda, Callianassidae) de la costa de Brasil

RESUMEN La mortalidad por pesca ha sido pocas veces estudiada aislando el efecto causado por las capturas. En este estudio se analizó este aspecto usando como modelo biológico al camarón fantasma Callichirus major (Say, 1818), el cual es colectado intensamente en varias regiones de la costa de Brasil. Para ello, la densidad de las galerías y la demografía poblacional de C. major fue analizada en las playas de Gonzaga e Itararé, dos playas contiguas del Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. La playa de Gonzaga fue considerada como control debido a que desde 1992 una ley municipal impide las capturas de C. major, mientras que Itararé fue considerada como tratamiento ya que en este lugar este camarón es recolectado durante todo el año. Los resultados mostraron que la densidad de las galerías y el tamaño de las hembras fueron significativamente mayores en la playa de Gonzaga que en Itararé. En Itararé, la proporción sexual no mostró diferencias significativas de la relación 1:1, lo cual no se ajustó a lo observado en el área sin mortalidad por pesca y al patrón general reportado en otras especies de camarones fantasma del mundo en donde las hembras predominan sobre los machos. El potencial reproductivo fue significativamente menor en Itararé, como efecto del menor número de hembras presentes en esta área sometida a la pesca intensiva de camarones. De acuerdo con una estimativa inicial, un 71% de los individuos murieron por efecto de la pesca en Itararé. Esto hace inviable el sostenimiento ambiental de C. major en esta área dada la actual presión de extracción. La presencia de C. major en la playa de Itararé y probablemente en otras áreas próximas donde es capturada, estaría favorecida por el permanente suministro de larvas procedentes de la playa de Gonzaga, en Santos, que está protegida por ley y fiscalización municipal.

ABSTRACT Studies on mortality due to fishing based on isolating the effect caused by catches are scarce. The present study analyzed this aspect using the ghost shrimp Callichirus major (Say, 1818) as a biological model, which is heavily harvested along the Brazilian coast. For that purpose, density of burrows and population structure of C. major was examined at two adjacent beaches, Gonzaga and Itararé, from the State of São Paulo, Brazil. Gonzaga beach was considered as control because since 1992 a municipal law prevents the capture of C. major, whereas Itararé as treatment since in this place the species is harvested throughout the year. Burrow density and female CL size were significantly higher in Gonzaga than that Itararé. Sex-ratio did not differ significantly from 1:1 in Itararé, differing from the observed in the area without fishing mortality and also to the general pattern reported in other species of ghost shrimps in which females outnumbered than males. Reproductive potential was significantly smaller in Itararé than Gonzaga, as result of the reduced number of females present in this area relative to Gonzaga. A preliminary estimation indicates that 71 % of shrimps in Itararé died as result of fishing. This information suggests non-viability of C. major in this area given the current pressure of fishing. Presence of C. major in the beach of Itararé and probably in other nearby areas where exploitation occurs would be favored by the permanent supply of larvae from Gonzaga beach where the species is protected by and municipal surveillance.

Maxillomandibular deformity in a canine with fibrous osteodystrophy secondary to chronic kidney disease

Background: Cases of renal fibrous osteodystrophy are usually associated with nutritional causes, which of renal causesare considered uncommon in dogs. This disorder is characterized by the intense proliferation of fibrous connective tissue inbones, impairing bone stiffness. The aim of this study was to report a case of fibrous osteodystrophy secondary to chronickidney disease in a canine with a “rubber jaw” facial deformity.Case: A 4-year-old male unneutered mongrel dog weighing 5.2 kg had a history of apathy, progressive weight loss andvomiting for one month, and polyuria and polydipsia for more than three months. In addition, the owner complained aboutthe deformed appearance in the muzzle region of the animal, which was evidenced flexibility of the same, with a displacement of the mandible and maxilla on physical examination, similar to the “rubber jaw”. Blood tests revealed macrocyticanemia, elevated total plasma proteins, and lymphopenia-associated neutrophilia, as well as hyperphosphatemia (24 mg/dL), uremia (283.6 mg/dL) and increased creatinine (8.6 mg/dL), ALT (143.2 UI/L) and alkaline phosphatase (3222.2UI/L), while calcium (8.8 mg/dL) and albumin (1.9 g/dL) were decreased. A serological test for visceral leishmaniasis wasalso performed, which was negative. Abdominal ultrasound imaging revealed kidneys with alterations in tissue architecture, increased thickness and complete loss of cortico-medullary relationship, while the parathyroid gland was enlargedand spindle-shaped. Cranial radiography showed marked radiopacity of the bilateral maxillary bones, with destructionof the nasal, turbinate and frontal bones, as well as loosening of the teeth and destruction of the mandibular bone matrix,characterizing an aspect of “rubber jaw”. Based on the history, history and evidence of azotemia, hyperphosphatemia andloss of facial bone density, the diagnosis of fibrous osteodystrophy secondary to chronic kidney...

Maxillomandibular deformity in a canine with fibrous osteodystrophy secondary to chronic kidney disease

Background: Cases of renal fibrous osteodystrophy are usually associated with nutritional causes, which of renal causesare considered uncommon in dogs. This disorder is characterized by the intense proliferation of fibrous connective tissue inbones, impairing bone stiffness. The aim of this study was to report a case of fibrous osteodystrophy secondary to chronickidney disease in a canine with a “rubber jaw” facial deformity.Case: A 4-year-old male unneutered mongrel dog weighing 5.2 kg had a history of apathy, progressive weight loss andvomiting for one month, and polyuria and polydipsia for more than three months. In addition, the owner complained aboutthe deformed appearance in the muzzle region of the animal, which was evidenced flexibility of the same, with a displacement of the mandible and maxilla on physical examination, similar to the “rubber jaw”. Blood tests revealed macrocyticanemia, elevated total plasma proteins, and lymphopenia-associated neutrophilia, as well as hyperphosphatemia (24 mg/dL), uremia (283.6 mg/dL) and increased creatinine (8.6 mg/dL), ALT (143.2 UI/L) and alkaline phosphatase (3222.2UI/L), while calcium (8.8 mg/dL) and albumin (1.9 g/dL) were decreased. A serological test for visceral leishmaniasis wasalso performed, which was negative. Abdominal ultrasound imaging revealed kidneys with alterations in tissue architecture, increased thickness and complete loss of cortico-medullary relationship, while the parathyroid gland was enlargedand spindle-shaped. Cranial radiography showed marked radiopacity of the bilateral maxillary bones, with destructionof the nasal, turbinate and frontal bones, as well as loosening of the teeth and destruction of the mandibular bone matrix,characterizing an aspect of “rubber jaw”. Based on the history, history and evidence of azotemia, hyperphosphatemia andloss of facial bone density, the diagnosis of fibrous osteodystrophy secondary to chronic kidney...(AU)

La efectividad de una ley de protección al servicio de la conservación de un recurso marino: El ejemplo del camarón fantasma Callichirus major (Decapoda, Callianassidae) de la costa de Brasil / The effectiveness of a protection law in favor of conservation of an marine resource: The example of the ghost shrimp Callichirus major (Decapoda, Callianassidae) of the coast of Brazil

La mortalidad por pesca ha sido pocas veces estudiada aislando el efecto causado por las capturas. En este estudio se analizó este aspecto usando como modelo biológico al camarón fantasma Callichirus major (Say, 1818), el cual es colectado intensamente en varias regiones de la costa de Brasil. Para ello, la densidad de las galerías y la demografía poblacional de C. major fue analizada en las playas de Gonzaga e Itararé, dos playas contiguas del Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. La playa de Gonzaga fue considerada como control debido a que desde 1992 una ley municipal impide las capturas de C. major, mientras que Itararé fue considerada como tratamiento ya que en este lugar este camarón es recolectado durante todo el año. Los resultados mostraron que la densidad de las galerías y el tamaño de las hembras fueron significativamente mayores en la playa de Gonzaga que en Itararé. En Itararé, la proporción sexual no mostró diferencias significativas de la relación 1:1, lo cual no se ajustó a lo observado en el área sin mortalidad por pesca y al patrón general reportado en otras especies de camarones fantasma del mundo en donde las hembras predominan sobre los machos. El potencial reproductivo fue significativamente menor en Itararé, como efecto del menor número de hembras presentes en esta área sometida a la pesca intensiva de camarones. De acuerdo con una estimativa inicial, un 71% de los individuos murieron por efecto de la pesca en Itararé. Esto hace inviable el sostenimiento ambiental de C. major en esta área dada la actual presión de extracción. La presencia de C. major en la playa de Itararé y probablemente en otras áreas próximas donde es capturada, estaría favorecida por el permanente suministro de larvas procedentes de la playa de Gonzaga, en Santos, que está protegida por ley y fiscalización municipal.(AU)

Studies on mortality due to fishing based on isolating the effect caused by catches are scarce. The present study analyzed this aspect using the ghost shrimp Callichirus major (Say, 1818) as a biological model, which is heavily harvested along the Brazilian coast. For that purpose, density of burrows and population structure of C. major was examined at two adjacent beaches, Gonzaga and Itararé, from the State of São Paulo, Brazil. Gonzaga beach was considered as control because since 1992 a municipal law prevents the capture of C. major, whereas Itararé as treatment since in this place the species is harvested throughout the year. Burrow density and female CL size were significantly higher in Gonzaga than that Itararé. Sex-ratio did not differ significantly from 1:1 in Itararé, differing from the observed in the area without fishing mortality and also to the general pattern reported in other species of ghost shrimps in which females outnumbered than males. Reproductive potential was significantly smaller in Itararé than Gonzaga, as result of the reduced number of females present in this area relative to Gonzaga. A preliminary estimation indicates that 71 % of shrimps in Itararé died as result of fishing. This information suggests non-viability of C. major in this area given the current pressure of fishing. Presence of C. major in the beach of Itararé and probably in other nearby areas where exploitation occurs would be favored by the permanent supply of larvae from Gonzaga beach where the species is protected by and municipal surveillance.(AU)

La efectividad de una ley de protección al servicio de la conservación de un recurso marino: El ejemplo del camarón fantasma Callichirus major (Decapoda, Callianassidae) de la costa de Brasil / The effectiveness of a protection law in favor of conservation of an marine resource: The example of the ghost shrimp Callichirus major (Decapoda, Callianassidae) of the coast of Brazil

La mortalidad por pesca ha sido pocas veces estudiada aislando el efecto causado por las capturas. En este estudio se analizó este aspecto usando como modelo biológico al camarón fantasma Callichirus major (Say, 1818), el cual es colectado intensamente en varias regiones de la costa de Brasil. Para ello, la densidad de las galerías y la demografía poblacional de C. major fue analizada en las playas de Gonzaga e Itararé, dos playas contiguas del Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. La playa de Gonzaga fue considerada como control debido a que desde 1992 una ley municipal impide las capturas de C. major, mientras que Itararé fue considerada como tratamiento ya que en este lugar este camarón es recolectado durante todo el año. Los resultados mostraron que la densidad de las galerías y el tamaño de las hembras fueron significativamente mayores en la playa de Gonzaga que en Itararé. En Itararé, la proporción sexual no mostró diferencias significativas de la relación 1:1, lo cual no se ajustó a lo observado en el área sin mortalidad por pesca y al patrón general reportado en otras especies de camarones fantasma del mundo en donde las hembras predominan sobre los machos. El potencial reproductivo fue significativamente menor en Itararé, como efecto del menor número de hembras presentes en esta área sometida a la pesca intensiva de camarones. De acuerdo con una estimativa inicial, un 71% de los individuos murieron por efecto de la pesca en Itararé. Esto hace inviable el sostenimiento ambiental de C. major en esta área dada la actual presión de extracción. La presencia de C. major en la playa de Itararé y probablemente en otras áreas próximas donde es capturada, estaría favorecida por el permanente suministro de larvas procedentes de la playa de Gonzaga, en Santos, que está protegida por ley y fiscalización municipal.

Studies on mortality due to fishing based on isolating the effect caused by catches are scarce. The present study analyzed this aspect using the ghost shrimp Callichirus major (Say, 1818) as a biological model, which is heavily harvested along the Brazilian coast. For that purpose, density of burrows and population structure of C. major was examined at two adjacent beaches, Gonzaga and Itararé, from the State of São Paulo, Brazil. Gonzaga beach was considered as control because since 1992 a municipal law prevents the capture of C. major, whereas Itararé as treatment since in this place the species is harvested throughout the year. Burrow density and female CL size were significantly higher in Gonzaga than that Itararé. Sex-ratio did not differ significantly from 1:1 in Itararé, differing from the observed in the area without fishing mortality and also to the general pattern reported in other species of ghost shrimps in which females outnumbered than males. Reproductive potential was significantly smaller in Itararé than Gonzaga, as result of the reduced number of females present in this area relative to Gonzaga. A preliminary estimation indicates that 71 % of shrimps in Itararé died as result of fishing. This information suggests non-viability of C. major in this area given the current pressure of fishing. Presence of C. major in the beach of Itararé and probably in other nearby areas where exploitation occurs would be favored by the permanent supply of larvae from Gonzaga beach where the species is protected by and municipal surveillance.

Perinephric pseudocyst in a two-month-old female cat

Background: Perinephric pseudocyst is defined as an accumulation of fluid in fibrous sacs surrounding one or both kidneys, and may be located in the subcapsular or extracapsular region. Histologically, it is characterized by the absence of an epithelial lining to the cyst wall and the term pseudocyst is used. This condition have been reported sporadically in cats, and is associated with chronic kidney disease, mainly in older animals. The diagnosis is based on imaging tests and the prognosis is related to the severity of renal dysfunction. The aim of this report is to describe an unusual presentation of perinephric pseudocyst in a very young female cat.Case: A mixed-breed 2-month-old female cat was evaluated for presenting abdominal distension and anatomical deformities of the limbs. Renomegaly on the left side was noted during abdominal palpation. On presentation, the serum creatinine was 134 µmol/L. Urinalysis showed mild proteinuria, presence of squamous and transitional cells, and rare bacteria. The urine specific gravity was 1.044 and urine protein to creatinine ratio was 0.23. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a large anechoic subcapsular cyst on the left kidney, in adittion to dilatation of renal pelvis and calyces. The excretory urography showed left renomegaly, and the nephrogram and pyelogram were not clearly observed in this kidney, indicating unilateral deficiency in renal filtration. The cat was referred to unilateral left nephrectomy but died shortly before surgery. At necropsy, marked left kidney enlargment was observed (6.5 x 4.5 x 1.5 cm), with a cystic aspect, occupying almost the entire abdominal cavity. The cystic content was translucent and was compressing the renal parenchyma, resulting in hydronephrosis. The capsule forming the cyst wall was composed of connective tissue, characterizing the perinephric pseudocyst.Discussion: Reports show cases of perinephric pseudocyst affecting mostly older animals, above eight years old.[...]

Perinephric pseudocyst in a two-month-old female cat

Background: Perinephric pseudocyst is defined as an accumulation of fluid in fibrous sacs surrounding one or both kidneys, and may be located in the subcapsular or extracapsular region. Histologically, it is characterized by the absence of an epithelial lining to the cyst wall and the term pseudocyst is used. This condition have been reported sporadically in cats, and is associated with chronic kidney disease, mainly in older animals. The diagnosis is based on imaging tests and the prognosis is related to the severity of renal dysfunction. The aim of this report is to describe an unusual presentation of perinephric pseudocyst in a very young female cat.Case: A mixed-breed 2-month-old female cat was evaluated for presenting abdominal distension and anatomical deformities of the limbs. Renomegaly on the left side was noted during abdominal palpation. On presentation, the serum creatinine was 134 µmol/L. Urinalysis showed mild proteinuria, presence of squamous and transitional cells, and rare bacteria. The urine specific gravity was 1.044 and urine protein to creatinine ratio was 0.23. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a large anechoic subcapsular cyst on the left kidney, in adittion to dilatation of renal pelvis and calyces. The excretory urography showed left renomegaly, and the nephrogram and pyelogram were not clearly observed in this kidney, indicating unilateral deficiency in renal filtration. The cat was referred to unilateral left nephrectomy but died shortly before surgery. At necropsy, marked left kidney enlargment was observed (6.5 x 4.5 x 1.5 cm), with a cystic aspect, occupying almost the entire abdominal cavity. The cystic content was translucent and was compressing the renal parenchyma, resulting in hydronephrosis. The capsule forming the cyst wall was composed of connective tissue, characterizing the perinephric pseudocyst.Discussion: Reports show cases of perinephric pseudocyst affecting mostly older animals, above eight years old.[...](AU)

Carcinoma mamário com metástase pulmonar em tatu-peba (Eupharactus sexcinctus) / Breast carcinoma with pulmonary metastasis in armadillo (Eupharactus sexcinctus)

Background: Breast neoplasms are among the most common neoplastic conditions affecting domestic animals and are considered the most common type of cancer affecting women, bitches, and cats. However, there are few reports on breast neoplasms in wild animals, and there is no record of their occurrence in armadillos worldwide. Breast neoplasms are hormone-dependent neoplasms that often cause lymph node and pulmonary metastases. The diagnosis is based on the patients history, complete physical examination, and complementary tests. Here we report a case of mammary neoplasia with pulmonary metastasis in an armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus).Case: A senile female armadillo was referred to us for treatment with a history of hyporexia and nodules in both breasts. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a hypoechogenic nodular lesion with a cross-section of approximately 1.3 × 1.4 cm and well-defined borders. The lesion had a circumscribed aspect in the left mammary gland. In the right mammary gland, there was a heterogeneous lesion with cystic formations and anechoic content. Cytopathological examination of the nodules was performed by fine needle aspiration cytology and revealed the presence of epithelial cells with ovoid and aberrant nuclei, anisocariasis, binucleation, coarse chromatin, and a high nucleus to cytoplasm ratio suggestive of carcinoma. The animal had a lean body score due to hyporexia that had evolved to anorexia and was undergoing supportive treatment. Nevertheless, the animal died two months after the cytologic diagnosis. A necropsy was performed. Cutting of the breast nodules revealed a hardened pale yellow material. The animal had pronounced pleural effusion, hemorrhage, and numerous pale yellow nodules of various sizes with firm consistency throughout the lung parenchyma. It also had hepatomegaly and splenomegaly.[...](AU)

Carcinoma mamário com metástase pulmonar em tatu-peba (Eupharactus sexcinctus) / Breast carcinoma with pulmonary metastasis in armadillo (Eupharactus sexcinctus)

Background: Breast neoplasms are among the most common neoplastic conditions affecting domestic animals and are considered the most common type of cancer affecting women, bitches, and cats. However, there are few reports on breast neoplasms in wild animals, and there is no record of their occurrence in armadillos worldwide. Breast neoplasms are hormone-dependent neoplasms that often cause lymph node and pulmonary metastases. The diagnosis is based on the patient’s history, complete physical examination, and complementary tests. Here we report a case of mammary neoplasia with pulmonary metastasis in an armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus).Case: A senile female armadillo was referred to us for treatment with a history of hyporexia and nodules in both breasts. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a hypoechogenic nodular lesion with a cross-section of approximately 1.3 × 1.4 cm and well-defined borders. The lesion had a circumscribed aspect in the left mammary gland. In the right mammary gland, there was a heterogeneous lesion with cystic formations and anechoic content. Cytopathological examination of the nodules was performed by fine needle aspiration cytology and revealed the presence of epithelial cells with ovoid and aberrant nuclei, anisocariasis, binucleation, coarse chromatin, and a high nucleus to cytoplasm ratio suggestive of carcinoma. The animal had a lean body score due to hyporexia that had evolved to anorexia and was undergoing supportive treatment. Nevertheless, the animal died two months after the cytologic diagnosis. A necropsy was performed. Cutting of the breast nodules revealed a hardened pale yellow material. The animal had pronounced pleural effusion, hemorrhage, and numerous pale yellow nodules of various sizes with firm consistency throughout the lung parenchyma. It also had hepatomegaly and splenomegaly.[...]

Influence of the Addition of Vitamin E in Extenders in the Quality of Fresh Semen Diluted, Refrigerated and Frozen Semen in Dogs of French Bulldog Breed

Background: Researches have been conducted in order to maintain the quality of the fresh semen which is diluted, refrigerated or frozen in liquid nitrogen for artificial insemination purposes in dogs. The semen biotechnology cooperates with the development of new formulations of types of extenders which minimize the death of the sperms due to thermal stress during temperature reduction of the refrigeration and freezing curves of the semen. The objective was to study the influence of the addition of vitamin E in types of extenders in the quality of the fresh, refrigerated and frozen semen in dogs of French Bulldog breed.Materials, Methods & Results: Semen samples by digital manipulation were performed on 5 adult dogs, French bulldog breed, five on each dog, totaling 25 ejaculated. The characteristics evaluated in fresh semen were: Volume (mL), color, aspect, concentration (x106/mL), sperm motility (%), vigor (1-5) and sperm morphology (%). For refrigerated and frozen semen, motility (%), vigor (1-5) and morphology (%) were analyzed. The ejaculated ones were fractionated in 4 equal parts and diluted in the ratio 1: 1 in the following extenders: 1 TRIS - Fructose Citric acid + 200 mM of vitamin E; 2 TRIS - Fructose Citric acid; 3 - coconut water (ACP-106®) + 200 mM of vitamin E; and 4 coconut water (ACP-106®). The four aliquots of semen, diluted in the four respective ex