Thecoma in an elderly crioulo mare

Background: Ovarian enlargement in mares can either be a physiological or pathological condition associated with neoplastic or non-neoplastic causes. Neoplasia is more prominent in elderly than young horses. Granulosa cell tumors are the most common neoplastic cause of ovarian enlargement, and thecoma is the rarest. Thecoma is a benign ovarian stromal neoplasia originating from the sexual cords of the embryonic gonad and can affect the production of steroid hormones, leading to changes in behavior and the estrous cycle. If only one ovary is affected, after unilateral ovariectomy, usually the mare can still be used for reproductive purposes. Herein, we report a case of ovarian thecoma in an elderly Crioulo mare. Case: A 15-year-old Crioulo mare was evaluated due to progressive weight loss. The mare presented a low body score, and on physical examination, all parameters were within reference limits. Hematological examination revealed anemia, hyperfibrinogenemia, and neutrophilia. Serum biochemistry examination were within the physiological limits. Rectal palpation revealed an increase in volume in the left ovary (4.3 × 2.9 × 3 cm), smooth consistency and no associated pain in either of the ovaries. Rectal ultrasonography revealed a heterogeneous pattern, suggesting a neoplasm. As a treatment modality and for definitive diagnosis, the mare underwent a unilateral flank ovariectomy laparoscopically in the quadrupedal position. On histopathological evaluation of the left ovary, the sample showed cysts associated with proliferating spindle cells arranged in a solid arrangement, occasionally forming eddies, in addition to hemosiderosis, with clear cytoplasm and lipid vacuoles. Macroscopically, the ovary presented with a regular surface, smooth to firm consistency, a homogeneous brownish appearance with blackened foci, and brownish fluid-filled cysts. These findings confirmed thecoma of the left ovary in the mare. Discussion: Ovarian enlargement in mares can be associated to the presence of neoplasia. Clinical signs of ovarian neoplasms can be nonspecific; therefore, to achieve a definitive diagnosis, it is imperative to evaluate and compare the patient's history, physical examination, and results of complementary examinations. Excessive production of hormones lead to behavioral changes in mares with ovarian tumors, such as masculinized or aggressive behavior, and anestrus persistence. Thecomas may or may not interfere with steroid production and levels. On ultrasound examination, ovarian neoplasms may present similar echogenicity patterns. Histopathological evaluation is the best diagnostic approach after an ovariectomy. The prognosis of ovariectomy is considerably successful with the mare regaining reproductive health, although some mares may become infertile, with a small, inactive contralateral ovary. Thecoma is a rare neoplasm in horses; however, owing to its potential to cause altered reproductive functions, it should be considered as a differential diagnosis in mares with increased ovarian volume.

Tracking the evolutionary pathways among Brazilian Lebiasina species (Teleostei: Lebiasinidae): a chromosomal and genomic comparative investigation

Despite several difficulties in chromosomal analyses of small-sized fishes, the cytogenetics of the Lebiasinidae was largely improved in the last years, showing differential patterns in the chromosomal evolution inside the family. In this context, it has been shown that genus Lebiasina preserves its karyotypic macrostructure, composed of 2n = 36 chromosomes, whereas the other genera generally present higher 2n. This study focused on the comparative cytogenetics of three Lebiasina species, one of them analyzed here for the first time, using conventional and molecular procedures. The results reinforced the differentiated evolutionary path of the genus Lebiasina while, at the same time, highlighted the genomic particularities that have accompanied the evolution of each species. In this sense, the repetitive components of the genome played a significant role in the differentiation of each species. It is also notable that L. minuta and L. melanoguttata, the two species that occur exclusively in the Brazilian territory, show greater chromosomal similarities to each other than to the trans-Andean sister species, L. bimaculata.(AU)

Apesar das dificuldades encontradas em se realizar análises cromossômicas em peixes de pequeno porte, os estudos citogenéticos em Lebiasinidae vêm crescendo nos últimos anos e demonstrando padrões diferenciados na evolução cromossômica entre os membros da família. Nesse contexto, o gênero Lebiasina tem mostrado preservar sua macroestrutura cariotípica, composta por 2n = 36 cromossomos, enquanto os demais gêneros geralmente apresentam 2n maiores. Este estudo tem como foco a citogenética comparativa de três espécies de Lebiasina, sendo uma delas analisada pela primeira vez aqui, através do emprego de técnicas convencionais e moleculares. Os resultados obtidos reforçam a trajetória evolutiva diferenciada do gênero Lebiasina, ao mesmo tempo em que evidenciam as particularidades genômicas que acompanham a evolução de cada uma das espécies. Neste contexto, os componentes repetitivos do genoma tiveram um papel importante na caracterização particular de cada uma das espécies. Também, é notável que L. minuta e L. melanoguttata, duas espécies que ocorrem exclusivamente no território brasileiro, apresentam maior proximidade citogenética entre elas do que com a espécie irmã transandina, L. bimaculata.(AU)

Differential gene expression pattern and plasma sex steroids during testicular development in Genyatremus luteus (Perciforme: Haemulidae) (Bloch, 1790) / Padrão diferencial de expressão gênica e esteróides sexuais plasmáticos durante o desenvolvimento testicular em Genyatremus luteus (Pisces: Haemulidae) (Bloch, 1790)

The aim of the current study is to evaluate gene expression patterns of LH (lhr) and estrogen (er) receptors and plasma steroid levels during testicular development in Genyatremus luteus. Males were histologically classified as immature (n=7), maturing (n=7) and mature (n=7), based on the cellular structure of their testes. Plasma 11-KT concentration recorded peak at the final maturation stage. The highest plasma 17α-OHP concentrations were observed at the immature stage; they decreased at the maturation and mature stages. On the other hand, 17ß-estradiol (E2) recorded higher concentrations at the maturation stage. Er expression has significantly increased along the maturational development of animals' testes. The mRNA observed for the LH receptor has decreased from immature to maturing stage; it presented expression peak at the mature stage. There was high association between receptor gene expression and plasma steroid levels, mainly E2. The current study was the first to feature different reproductive maturation stages in male G. luteus specimens, based on cellular, endocrine and molecular aspects. In addition, it has shown that the gene expression profile for er and lhr receptors, as well as plasma 11-KT and E2 concentrations, are directly linked to testicular maturation, although they are not necessarily associated with the gonadosomatic index.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os padrões de expressão gênica dos receptores de LH (lhr) e de estrogênio (er) e dos níveis de esteróides plasmáticos durante o desenvolvimento testicular de Genyatremus luteus. Os machos foram classificados histologicamente em imaturos, em maturação e maduros, de acordo com a estrutura celular dos testículos. A concentração plasmática de 11-KT apresentou um pico na fase de maturação final (P<0.05). As maiores concentrações plasmáticas de 17α-OHP foram encontradas no estádio imaturo (P<0.05), com consequente diminuição nos estádios em maturação e maturo. O 17ß-estradiol (E2) apresentou maiores níveis de concentração no estádio em maturação (P<0.05). A expressão de er aumentou significativamente ao longo do desenvolvimento maturacional dos testículos (P<0.05). O mRNA para o receptor de LH diminuiu do estádio imaturo para o estádio em maturação (P<0.05) com consequente pico de expressão no estádio maduro. Houve alta relação entre a expressão gênica dos receptores e os níveis de esteróides plasmáticos, especialmente com E2. Em conclusão, este estudo caracterizou pela primeira vez, sob os aspectos celular, endócrino e molecular, os diferentes estádios de maturação reprodutiva em machos de G. luteus, demonstrando que o perfil da expressão gênica para os receptores er e lhr, bem como as concentrações plasmáticas de 11-KT e E2 foram diretamente relacionados à maturação testicular, apesar de não se relacionarem necessariamente com o índice gonadossomático.

Microhabitat selection of the poorly known lizard Tropidurus lagunablanca(Squamata: Tropiduridae) in the Pantanal, Brazil

Understanding how different environmental factors influence species occurrence is a key issue to address the study of natural populations. However, there is a lack of knowledge on how local traits influence the microhabitat use of tropical arboreal lizards. Here, we investigated the microhabitat selection of the poorly known lizard Tropidurus lagunablanca(Squamata: Tropiduridae) and evaluated how environmental microhabitat features influence animals presence. We used a Resource Selection Function approach, in a case/control design where we analyzed the effect of substrate temperature and trees diameter at breast height (DBH) in the probability of presence of lizards using mixed Conditional Logistic Regression. We found that T. lagunablanca uses trees with DBH from 0.40 m to 4 m and substrate temperatures ranging from 25.9°C to 42°C. Moreover, we showed that thickness of the trees and substrate temperatures significantly increased the probability of presence of T. lagunablanca individuals, being the probability of presence higher than 50% for trees up to 1.5 m DBH and temperature of substrate up to 37.5°C. Our study probed that T. lagunablanca individuals choose trees non-randomly, selecting thicker and warmer tree trunks. This information advances the knowledge of the spatial ecology of Neotropical arboreal lizards and is relevant for conservation, putting an emphasis on preserving native vegetation in the Pantanal.(AU)

Heart rate responses to different temperatures in juvenile Poppiana dentata ( ) / Respostas de frequência cardíaca do Poppiana dentata jovem a diferentes temperaturas ( )

Temperature is one of the main factors that influences cardiovascular functioning in ectotherms. Hence this study sought to investigate heart rate responses of a freshwater crab species, Poppiana dentata, to different temperature exposures since the species generally reside in habitats of fluctuating physicochemistry. Heart rates were non-invasively determined in juvenile crabs for three temperature regimes, each over an 8-day session; A: temperature exposures of 26 °C (2 days) to 30 °C (3 days) to 26 °C (3 days), B: 26 °C (2 days) to 32 °C (3 days) to 26 °C (3 days) and C: a control at constant 26 °C. Heart rate variations were significant among the regimes (P < 0.05), with the median heart rate being highest for regime B (74 beats per minute or bpm) during the temperature insult (32 °C), relative to regime A (70 bpm) and the control (64 bpm). Notably, a suppression and inversion of the diurnal cardiac patterns occurred for regimes' A and B crabs respectively, with rates from the highest temperature insult not shifting back to pre-insult levels during recovery (26 °C). It is plausible that P. dentata may have compensatory cardiovascular mechanisms that account for these differential heart rate responses, possibly conveying adaptive strategies in its dynamic habitat conditions.(AU)

A temperatura é um dos principais fatores que influenciam o funcionamento cardiovascular dos animais ectotérmicos. Sendo assim, este estudo buscou investigar as respostas de frequência cardíaca de uma espécie de caranguejo de água doce, o Poppiana dentata, após exposição a temperaturas diferentes, visto que esta espécie geralmente reside em habitats de composição físico-química variável. As frequências cardíacas foram determinadas de maneira não invasiva em caranguejos jovens submetidos a três regimes de temperatura, cada um ao longo de uma sessão de oito dias de duração; A: exposição a 26oC (dois dias) para 30 °C (três dias) para 26 °C (dois dias), B: 26 °C (dois dias) para 32 °C (três dias) para 26 °C (três dias) e C: um controle a temperatura constante de 26 °C. As variações de frequência cardíaca foram significativas entre os regimes (P < 0,05), sendo que a frequência cardíaca mediana foi mais alta para o regime B (74 batimentos por minuto ou bpm) durante o insulto térmico (32 °C), em relação ao regime A (70 bpm) e ao controle (64 bpm). Observou-se particularmente uma supressão e uma inversão dos padrões cardíacos diurnos nos caranguejos dos regimes A e B, respectivamente, sem que as frequências do insulto térmico mais alto voltassem aos níveis anteriores ao insulto térmico durante a recuperação (26 °C). É possível que o P. dentata possua mecanismos cardiovasculares compensatórios responsáveis por essas respostas de frequências cardíacas variadas, o que pode indicar estratégias de adaptação às suas condições de habitat dinâmicas.(AU)

Melanoma oral amelanótico metastático com acometimento neurológico e gonadal em um cão fêmea - relato de caso / [Metastatic oral amelanotic melanoma with neurologic and gonadal involvement in a female dog - case report]

Relata-se um caso de melanoma oral disseminado em uma cadela de dois anos, com protrusão de bulbo ocular unilateral e quadro convulsivo progressivo. Os exames de imagem revelaram aumento de volume nas regiões submandibular, maxilar e cerebral, padrão nodular pulmonar e aumento das dimensões ovarianas. A citologia da massa submandibular indicou proliferação epitelial maligna, enquanto a biópsia excisional foi sugestiva de melanoma amelanótico. Na necropsia, havia uma massa gengival localmente infiltrativa e nodulações brancas nos linfonodos, nos rins, no pulmão, no cérebro e nos ovários, indicativas de metástase. O diagnóstico histopatológico consistiu de neoplasia maligna metastática indiferenciada, indicativo de melanoma amelanótico. Células caracterizadas por núcleo com cromatina espessa, múltiplos nucléolos bem evidentes, mitoses atípicas e multinucleações consistiram nos principais critérios de malignidade. No espaço peritrabecular ósseo facial, havia rara diferenciação pigmentar melanocítica, confirmada histoquimicamente pela técnica de Fontana-Massom e Giemsa. Algumas células foram positivas pela imuno-histoquímica para PNL-2 e Melan-A, e o diagnóstico de melanoma amelanótico disseminado foi firmado. A indiferenciação neoplásica marcante, com disseminação metastática multissistêmica e acometimento mútuo de sítios anatômicos pouco comuns, conjuntamente com a ampla variação dos padrões celulares, foi responsável pelo desafio diagnóstico do presente caso, ressaltando o papel decisivo da imuno-histoquímica para confirmação diagnóstica. A importância clínica deste trabalho consiste ainda em alertar a comunidade clínica e científica acerca da dificuldade diagnóstica, devendo-se considerar o melanoma amelanótico como diferencial mesmo em casos de lesões orais menos perceptíveis e/ou desprovidas de pigmentação.(AU)

A case of disseminated oral melanoma in a two year old female dog with unilateral protuberance of the eye bulb and progressive seizure is described. Imaging exams revealed increase of the submandibular, maxillary and cerebral regions, nodular pattern in lungs and increased ovarian dimensions. The cytology of the submandibular mass indicated a malignant epithelial proliferation, whereas the excisional biopsy indicated an amelanotic melanoma. At necropsy, a locally infiltrating gingival mass and white nodules in the lymph nodes, kidneys, lung, brain and ovaries were observed, indicative of metastases. Histopathological diagnosis consisted of an undifferentiated malignant metastatic neoplasm. Nucleus with coarse chromatin, prominent nucleoli, bizarre mitotic figures and multinucleated cells were the major malignant features. There was a poor melanocytic pigment differentiation in the peritrabecular space of facial bones, confirmed by Fontana-Masson and Giemsa histochemical techniques. Only a few cells were immunohistochemically positive for PNL-2 and Melan-A and the diagnosis of a disseminated amelanotic melanoma was performed. The diagnostic challenge was based on marked neoplastic undifferentiation, with multisystemic metastasis and mutual involvement of uncommon anatomic sites, associated with a large variability of cellular patterns, highlighting the decisive role of immunohistochemistry for diagnostic confirmation. Therefore, the clinical importance of this study is to warn the clinical and scientific community about the diagnostic challenge, considering the amelanotic melanoma as a differential even in cases of poorly apparent and/or nonpigmented oral lesions.(AU)

Screening and analysis on the differentially expression genes between diploid and autotetraploid watermelon by using of digital gene expression profile / Triagem e análise da expressão diferencial dos genes entre melancia diplóide e autotetraplóide através do perfil de expressão gênica digital

Synthetic polyploids are key breeding materials for watermelon. Compared with diploid watermelon, the tetraploid watermelon often exhibit wide phenotypic differences and differential gene expression. Digital gene expression (DGE) profile technique was performed in this study to present gene expression patterns in an autotetraploid and its progenitor diploid watermelon, and deferentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to the abiotic and biotic stress were also addressed. Altogether, 4,985 DEGs were obtained in the autotetraploid against its progenitor diploid, and 66.02% DEGs is up-regulated. GO analysis shows that these DEGs mainly distributed in metabolic process, cell and catalytic activity. KEGG analysis revealed that these DEGs mainly cover metabolic pathways, secondary metabolites and ribosome. Moreover, 134 tolerance related DEGs were identified which cover osmotic adjustment substance, protective enzymes/protein, signaling proteins and pathogenesis-related proteins. This study present the differential expression of stress related genes and global gene expression patterns at background level in autotetraploid watermelons. These new evidences could supplement the molecular theoretical basis for the better resistance after the genome doubling in the gourd family.(AU)

Poliploides sintéticos são materias fundamentais para melhoramento genético da melancia. Comparativamente ao seu homólogo diploide, a melancia tetraploide apresenta amplas diferenças genotípica e fenotípica e diferença de expressão gênica. A expressão gênica digital ou DGE (digital gene expression) foi utilizada neste estudo para representar o perfil de expressão gênica da melancia autotetraploide e seu progenitor diploide e a expressão diferencial de genes relacionados ao estresse biótico e abiótico. Os resultados mostraram que 4.985 DEGs foram observados no organismo autotetraploide, sendo que, deste total, 66.02%foram supra-regulados. A análise de ontologia gênica (GO) mostrou que estes DEGs estão relacionados principalmente com processos metabólicas, célula e atividade catalítica, abrangendo de acordo com a análise de genes e genoma (KEGG) rotas metabólicas, metabolismo secundário e ribossomos. Além disso, 134 genes de defesa foram identificados, abrangendo substâncias de ajuste osmótico, enzimas/proteínas de proteção, proteínas sinalizadoras e proteínas relacionadas à patogênese. Este estudo mostrou a expressão diferencial de genes relacionados ao estresse e o perfil global de expressão gênica de melancia autotetraploide, estes resultados podem complementar, a nível molecular, o entendimento do fator resistência após a duplicação do genoma em cucurbitáceas.(AU)

Variations in Tissue-Specific Expression of Adipose Differentiation-Related Protein Gene in Two Native Yunnan Chicken Breeds

Adipose differentiation-related protein (ADFP) is a fatty acid-binding protein that can promote the absorption of long-chain fatty acids. However, few results have been published regarding its role in Yunnan Native chicken breeds. The aim of this study was to determine ADFP gene tissue-specific expression in Piao chickens (PC) and Wuliangshan black-bone chickens (WBC) by RT-qPCR. The ontogenetic expression levels of the ADFP gene were significantly different during growth and development phases in the subcutaneous fat, liver, and pectoralis muscle of PC, and in the subcutaneous fat, liver, and pectoralis muscle of WBC (p 0.05). Individual tissue-differential expression levelswere detectedon d 91 and 112 in PC, with highest levels determined in abdominal fat and subcutaneous fat, respectively. However, in WBC, the highest levels were determined on d 49, 91 and 112 d in the pectoralis muscle and liver. Correlation analysis revealed ADFP expression level in liver of WBC was significantly related with LW and HC (p 0.05), while no significant correlations with carcass fatness (CF) were found in PC (p>0.05). The results suggest ADFPdifferential expression in the liver and pectoral muscles of PC and WBC during the growth and development phases (p 0.05). The observed expression patterns indicate that the ADFP gene plays an important role in lipid metabolism of PC and WBC, and that these patterns are expressed differently in the tissues of different chicken genotypes.(AU)

Variations in Tissue-Specific Expression of Adipose Differentiation-Related Protein Gene in Two Native Yunnan Chicken Breeds

Adipose differentiation-related protein (ADFP) is a fatty acid-binding protein that can promote the absorption of long-chain fatty acids. However, few results have been published regarding its role in Yunnan Native chicken breeds. The aim of this study was to determine ADFP gene tissue-specific expression in Piao chickens (PC) and Wuliangshan black-bone chickens (WBC) by RT-qPCR. The ontogenetic expression levels of the ADFP gene were significantly different during growth and development phases in the subcutaneous fat, liver, and pectoralis muscle of PC, and in the subcutaneous fat, liver, and pectoralis muscle of WBC (p 0.05). Individual tissue-differential expression levelswere detectedon d 91 and 112 in PC, with highest levels determined in abdominal fat and subcutaneous fat, respectively. However, in WBC, the highest levels were determined on d 49, 91 and 112 d in the pectoralis muscle and liver. Correlation analysis revealed ADFP expression level in liver of WBC was significantly related with LW and HC (p 0.05), while no significant correlations with carcass fatness (CF) were found in PC (p>0.05). The results suggest ADFPdifferential expression in the liver and pectoral muscles of PC and WBC during the growth and development phases (p 0.05). The observed expression patterns indicate that the ADFP gene plays an important role in lipid metabolism of PC and WBC, and that these patterns are expressed differently in the tissues of different chicken genotypes.

Heart rate responses to different temperatures in juvenile Poppiana dentata ( )

Abstract Temperature is one of the main factors that influences cardiovascular functioning in ectotherms. Hence this study sought to investigate heart rate responses of a freshwater crab species, Poppiana dentata, to different temperature exposures since the species generally reside in habitats of fluctuating physicochemistry. Heart rates were non-invasively determined in juvenile crabs for three temperature regimes, each over an 8-day session; A: temperature exposures of 26 °C (2 days) to 30 °C (3 days) to 26 °C (3 days), B: 26 °C (2 days) to 32 °C (3 days) to 26 °C (3 days) and C: a control at constant 26 °C. Heart rate variations were significant among the regimes (P 0.05), with the median heart rate being highest for regime B (74 beats per minute or bpm) during the temperature insult (32 °C), relative to regime A (70 bpm) and the control (64 bpm). Notably, a suppression and inversion of the diurnal cardiac patterns occurred for regimes A and B crabs respectively, with rates from the highest temperature insult not shifting back to pre-insult levels during recovery (26 °C). It is plausible that P. dentata may have compensatory cardiovascular mechanisms that account for these differential heart rate responses, possibly conveying adaptive strategies in its dynamic habitat conditions.

Resumo A temperatura é um dos principais fatores que influenciam o funcionamento cardiovascular dos animais ectotérmicos. Sendo assim, este estudo buscou investigar as respostas de frequência cardíaca de uma espécie de caranguejo de água doce, o Poppiana dentata, após exposição a temperaturas diferentes, visto que esta espécie geralmente reside em habitats de composição físico-química variável. As frequências cardíacas foram determinadas de maneira não invasiva em caranguejos jovens submetidos a três regimes de temperatura, cada um ao longo de uma sessão de oito dias de duração; A: exposição a 26oC (dois dias) para 30 °C (três dias) para 26 °C (dois dias), B: 26 °C (dois dias) para 32 °C (três dias) para 26 °C (três dias) e C: um controle a temperatura constante de 26 °C. As variações de frequência cardíaca foram significativas entre os regimes (P 0,05), sendo que a frequência cardíaca mediana foi mais alta para o regime B (74 batimentos por minuto ou bpm) durante o insulto térmico (32 °C), em relação ao regime A (70 bpm) e ao controle (64 bpm). Observou-se particularmente uma supressão e uma inversão dos padrões cardíacos diurnos nos caranguejos dos regimes A e B, respectivamente, sem que as frequências do insulto térmico mais alto voltassem aos níveis anteriores ao insulto térmico durante a recuperação (26 °C). É possível que o P. dentata possua mecanismos cardiovasculares compensatórios responsáveis por essas respostas de frequências cardíacas variadas, o que pode indicar estratégias de adaptação às suas condições de habitat dinâmicas.

Reproductive physiology of the heat-stressed dairy cow: implications for fertility and assisted reproduction

Heat stress causes a large decline in pregnancy success per insemination during warm times of the year. Improvements in fertility are possible by exploiting knowledge about how heat stress affects the reproductive process. The oocyte can be damaged by heat stress at the earliest stages of folliculogenesis and remains sensitive to heat stress in the peri-ovulatory period. Changes in oocyte quality due to heat stress are the result of altered patterns of folliculogenesis and, possibly, direct effects of elevated body temperature on the oocyte. While adverse effects of elevated temperature on the oocyte have been observed in vitro, local cooling of the ovary and protective effects of follicular fluid may limit these actions in vivo. Heat stress can also compromise fertilization rate. The first seven days of embryonic development are very susceptible to disruption by heat stress. During these seven days, the embryo undergoes a rapid change in sensitivity to heat stress from being very sensitive (2- to 4-cell stage) to largely resistant (by the morulae stage). Direct actions of elevated temperature on the embryo are likely to be an important mechanism for reduction in embryonic survival caused by heat stress. An effective way to avoid effects of heat stress on the oocyte, fertilization, and early embryo is to bypass the effects through embryo transfer because embryos are typically transferred into females after acquisition of thermal resistance. There may be some opportunity to mitigate effects of heat stress by feeding antioxidants or regulating the endocrine environment of the cow but neither approach has been reduced to practice. The best long-term solution to the problem of heat stress may be to increase genetic resistance of cows to heat stress. Thermotolerance genes exist within dairy breeds and additional genes can be introgressed from other breeds by traditional means or gene editing.

Reproductive physiology of the heat-stressed dairy cow: implications for fertility and assisted reproduction

Heat stress causes a large decline in pregnancy success per insemination during warm times of the year. Improvements in fertility are possible by exploiting knowledge about how heat stress affects the reproductive process. The oocyte can be damaged by heat stress at the earliest stages of folliculogenesis and remains sensitive to heat stress in the peri-ovulatory period. Changes in oocyte quality due to heat stress are the result of altered patterns of folliculogenesis and, possibly, direct effects of elevated body temperature on the oocyte. While adverse effects of elevated temperature on the oocyte have been observed in vitro, local cooling of the ovary and protective effects of follicular fluid may limit these actions in vivo. Heat stress can also compromise fertilization rate. The first seven days of embryonic development are very susceptible to disruption by heat stress. During these seven days, the embryo undergoes a rapid change in sensitivity to heat stress from being very sensitive (2- to 4-cell stage) to largely resistant (by the morulae stage). Direct actions of elevated temperature on the embryo are likely to be an important mechanism for reduction in embryonic survival caused by heat stress. An effective way to avoid effects of heat stress on the oocyte, fertilization, and early embryo is to bypass the effects through embryo transfer because embryos are typically transferred into females after acquisition of thermal resistance. There may be some opportunity to mitigate effects of heat stress by feeding antioxidants or regulating the endocrine environment of the cow but neither approach has been reduced to practice. The best long-term solution to the problem of heat stress may be to increase genetic resistance of cows to heat stress. Thermotolerance genes exist within dairy breeds and additional genes can be introgressed from other breeds by traditional means or gene editing.(AU)

Mielografia em cães / Myelography in dogs

Doenças na medula espinhal causam dor, dificuldade ambulatorial e incontinência urinária, interferindo de forma significativa na qualidade de vida dos animais. A localização clínica das lesões neurológicas bem como a característica do curso das doenças, é de extrema importância na elaboração dos possíveis diagnósticos diferenciais. Para se definir o diagnóstico e tratamento, são necessários exames complementares. Atualmente, destacam-se os exames de imagem avançados como tomografia computadorizada (TC) e a ressonância magnética (RM) como possibilidades complementares. Estes exames, entretanto, são pouco disponíveis no Brasil e em outros países em desenvolvimento, ou estão restritos aos grandes centros urbanos. Desta maneira, técnicas que exijam menor tecnologia e estão mais disponíveis, como mielografia, ainda têm papel fundamental no diagnóstico e planejamento cirúrgico de afecções medulares em locais nos quais a TC e RM são inacessíveis. Para a realização da mielografia, o paciente deve ser submetido à anestesia geral e a punção deve ser feita em condições estéreis em cisterna magna ou em região lombar. O fluir do liquor, caso o animal movimente a cauda ou membros, são indícios de que o bisel da agulha está no espaço subaracnóideo e o contraste deve ser administrado. Existem quatro tipos de padrão mielográfico (normal, extradural, intradural-extramedular e intramedular) e cada padrão pode estar relacionado a diferentes tipos de afecção. A administração do contraste no espaço subaracnóideo pode causar inúmeros efeitos adversos, sendo o mais estudado a ocorrência de convulsões após mielografia.

Spinal cord diseases can cause pain and urinary incontinence. All these clinical signs can interfere in a significant way in life quality of ill patients. The clinical localization of the neurological lesions as well as the characteristic of the diseases course are of extreme importance in the elaboration of the possible differential diagnoses. In order to define the diagnosis and treatment, additional tests are necessary. Advanced imaging exams such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) stand out as complementary possibilities. These image modalities aren ́t easily accessible in Brazil and other developing countries and are restricted to big cities. Considering this, more traditional image techniques such as myelography are still useful in spinal cord diseases diagnosis and treatment in places where CT and or MRI are inaccessible. Myelography requires general anesthesia and the spinal tap area must be clipped and surgically prepared. The spinal tap can be done in subarachnoid lumbar space or cisterna magna. Liquor fluence, twitching the tail or limbs are signs that the needle is in the subarachnoid space and myelography contrast can be administrated. There are four myelography patterns: normal, extradural, intradural-extramedullary and intramedullary) and these patterners can occur in different diseases etiologies. Subdural contrast administration can cause many side effects, the most studied is myelography induced seizures.

Mielografia em cães / Myelography in dogs

Doenças na medula espinhal causam dor, dificuldade ambulatorial e incontinência urinária, interferindo de forma significativa na qualidade de vida dos animais. A localização clínica das lesões neurológicas bem como a característica do curso das doenças, é de extrema importância na elaboração dos possíveis diagnósticos diferenciais. Para se definir o diagnóstico e tratamento, são necessários exames complementares. Atualmente, destacam-se os exames de imagem avançados como tomografia computadorizada (TC) e a ressonância magnética (RM) como possibilidades complementares. Estes exames, entretanto, são pouco disponíveis no Brasil e em outros países em desenvolvimento, ou estão restritos aos grandes centros urbanos. Desta maneira, técnicas que exijam menor tecnologia e estão mais disponíveis, como mielografia, ainda têm papel fundamental no diagnóstico e planejamento cirúrgico de afecções medulares em locais nos quais a TC e RM são inacessíveis. Para a realização da mielografia, o paciente deve ser submetido à anestesia geral e a punção deve ser feita em condições estéreis em cisterna magna ou em região lombar. O fluir do liquor, caso o animal movimente a cauda ou membros, são indícios de que o bisel da agulha está no espaço subaracnóideo e o contraste deve ser administrado. Existem quatro tipos de padrão mielográfico (normal, extradural, intradural-extramedular e intramedular) e cada padrão pode estar relacionado a diferentes tipos de afecção. A administração do contraste no espaço subaracnóideo pode causar inúmeros efeitos adversos, sendo o mais estudado a ocorrência de convulsões após mielografia.(AU)

Spinal cord diseases can cause pain and urinary incontinence. All these clinical signs can interfere in a significant way in life quality of ill patients. The clinical localization of the neurological lesions as well as the characteristic of the diseases course are of extreme importance in the elaboration of the possible differential diagnoses. In order to define the diagnosis and treatment, additional tests are necessary. Advanced imaging exams such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) stand out as complementary possibilities. These image modalities aren ́t easily accessible in Brazil and other developing countries and are restricted to big cities. Considering this, more traditional image techniques such as myelography are still useful in spinal cord diseases diagnosis and treatment in places where CT and or MRI are inaccessible. Myelography requires general anesthesia and the spinal tap area must be clipped and surgically prepared. The spinal tap can be done in subarachnoid lumbar space or cisterna magna. Liquor fluence, twitching the tail or limbs are signs that the needle is in the subarachnoid space and myelography contrast can be administrated. There are four myelography patterns: normal, extradural, intradural-extramedullary and intramedullary) and these patterners can occur in different diseases etiologies. Subdural contrast administration can cause many side effects, the most studied is myelography induced seizures.(AU)

Screening and analysis on the differentially expression genes between diploid and autotetraploid watermelon by using of digital gene expression profile

Abstract Synthetic polyploids are key breeding materials for watermelon. Compared with diploid watermelon, the tetraploid watermelon often exhibit wide phenotypic differences and differential gene expression. Digital gene expression (DGE) profile technique was performed in this study to present gene expression patterns in an autotetraploid and its progenitor diploid watermelon, and deferentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to the abiotic and biotic stress were also addressed. Altogether, 4,985 DEGs were obtained in the autotetraploid against its progenitor diploid, and 66.02% DEGs is up-regulated. GO analysis shows that these DEGs mainly distributed in metabolic process, cell and catalytic activity. KEGG analysis revealed that these DEGs mainly cover metabolic pathways, secondary metabolites and ribosome. Moreover, 134 tolerance related DEGs were identified which cover osmotic adjustment substance, protective enzymes/protein, signaling proteins and pathogenesis-related proteins. This study present the differential expression of stress related genes and global gene expression patterns at background level in autotetraploid watermelons. These new evidences could supplement the molecular theoretical basis for the better resistance after the genome doubling in the gourd family.

Resumo Poliploides sintéticos são materias fundamentais para melhoramento genético da melancia. Comparativamente ao seu homólogo diploide, a melancia tetraploide apresenta amplas diferenças genotípica e fenotípica e diferença de expressão gênica. A expressão gênica digital ou DGE (digital gene expression) foi utilizada neste estudo para representar o perfil de expressão gênica da melancia autotetraploide e seu progenitor diploide e a expressão diferencial de genes relacionados ao estresse biótico e abiótico. Os resultados mostraram que 4.985 DEGs foram observados no organismo autotetraploide, sendo que, deste total, 66.02%foram supra-regulados. A análise de ontologia gênica (GO) mostrou que estes DEGs estão relacionados principalmente com processos metabólicas, célula e atividade catalítica, abrangendo de acordo com a análise de genes e genoma (KEGG) rotas metabólicas, metabolismo secundário e ribossomos. Além disso, 134 genes de defesa foram identificados, abrangendo substâncias de ajuste osmótico, enzimas/proteínas de proteção, proteínas sinalizadoras e proteínas relacionadas à patogênese. Este estudo mostrou a expressão diferencial de genes relacionados ao estresse e o perfil global de expressão gênica de melancia autotetraploide, estes resultados podem complementar, a nível molecular, o entendimento do fator resistência após a duplicação do genoma em cucurbitáceas.

Differential role of gpaB and sidA gene expressions in relation to virulence in Aspergillus species from patients with invasive aspergillosis

The virulence genes in invasive aspergillosis (IA) have not been analyzed adequately. The present study was designed to evaluate the expression of gpaB and sidA genes, which are important virulence genes in Aspergillus spp. from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples. Direct examination and culture on Czapek Agar and Sabouraud Dextrose Agar media were performed for 600 BAL specimens isolated from patients with possible aspergillosis. A Galactomannan ELISA assay was also carried out. The expression levels of the gpaB and sidA genes in isolates were analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). We identified 2 species, including Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus) and Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) in 25 positive samples for invasive aspergillosis as validated using GM-ELISA. A. flavus is the main pathogen threatening transplant recipients and cancer patients worldwide. In this study, A. flavus had low levels of the gpaB gene expression compared to A. fumigatus (p = 0.006). The highest sidA expression was detected in transplant recipients (p = 0.05). There was no significant correlation between sidA expression and underlying disease (p = 0.15). The sidA and gpaB gene expression patterns may provide evidence that these virulence genes play important roles in the pathogenicity of Aspergillus isolates; however, there are several regulatory genes responsible for the unexpressed sidA and gpaB genes in the isolates.(AU)

Morphological changes of gonad and gene expression patterns during desexualization in Dugesia japonica (Platyhelminthes: Dugesiidae)

Planarians, the representatives of an ancient bilaterian group with complex reproductive system and high regenerative capabilities, are model system suitable for studying the basic molecular requirements for the development of the reproductive system. To further explore the morphological changes of the gonads during desexualization and the molecular events of the genes controlling the reproductive system development in planarians, we have investigated the histological changes of ovary and testis by paraffin section and the expression patterns of reproductive-related genes by the quantitative real-time PCR in Dugesia japonica Ichikawa & Kawakatsu, 1964, upon starvation. The four genes, Djprps, DjvlgA, DjvlgB and Djnos, have been selected. The research results show that the degradation of ovary changes from outside layer to inside, and the testis changes are opposite; the reproductive capacity of the planarians starts to be damaged from the 17th to 25th days and to disappear completely from the 26th to 37th days during starvation. The expression patterns of the four genes exhibit the obvious dynamic variations during their desexualization, which indicates that these genes might be involved in gonad development.

Morphological changes of gonad and gene expression patterns during desexualization in Dugesia japonica (Platyhelminthes: Dugesiidae)

Planarians, the representatives of an ancient bilaterian group with complex reproductive system and high regenerative capabilities, are model system suitable for studying the basic molecular requirements for the development of the reproductive system. To further explore the morphological changes of the gonads during desexualization and the molecular events of the genes controlling the reproductive system development in planarians, we have investigated the histological changes of ovary and testis by paraffin section and the expression patterns of reproductive-related genes by the quantitative real-time PCR in Dugesia japonica Ichikawa & Kawakatsu, 1964, upon starvation. The four genes, Djprps, DjvlgA, DjvlgB and Djnos, have been selected. The research results show that the degradation of ovary changes from outside layer to inside, and the testis changes are opposite; the reproductive capacity of the planarians starts to be damaged from the 17th to 25th days and to disappear completely from the 26th to 37th days during starvation. The expression patterns of the four genes exhibit the obvious dynamic variations during their desexualization, which indicates that these genes might be involved in gonad development.(AU)

Population dynamics of Prochilodus nigricans (Characiformes: Prochilodontidae) in the Putumayo River

The black prochilodus (Prochilodus nigricans) is one of the most landed scaled fish species of the middle and upper parts of the Putumayo River, in the tri-national area between Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. Despite its importance, biological information about this species is too scant to guide fisheries management in this portion of the Colombian Amazon. In this study, 10884 individuals were sampled in the fish markets of Puerto Leguízamo between 2009 and 2017. This sampling was used to document reproductive patterns, but also growth and mortality parameters from length frequency distributions. The size at which all fish were mature was 22 cm Ls, which should be the established as the minimum size of capture to ensure that all fish have had a chance to reproduce before being caught. Growth and mortality parameters indicated a slower growth in the Putumayo than in other Amazonian rivers and a relatively high exploitation rate.(AU)

El bocachico (Prochilodus nigricans) es uno de los peces de escama más comercializados en la cuenca media y alta del río Putumayo en la zona tri-nacional entre Colombia, Ecuador y Perú. Sin embargo, a pesar de su importancia, existe muy poca información biológica sobre esta especie que permita guiar el manejo pesquero para este sector de la Amazonia colombiana. Para ello, fueron analizados 10884 ejemplares colectados en puntos de expendio de pescado y zonas de pesca aledaños a la ciudad de Puerto Leguízamo entre los años 2009 a 2017. Se determinaron los parámetros de reproducción, así como de crecimiento y de mortalidad en base a análisis de distribución de frecuencia de tallas. Se recomienda establecer la talla mínima de captura a 22 cm Le, talla a la cual todos los peces son maduros y han tenido la posibilidad de reproducirse por lo menos una vez ante su captura. Los parámetros de crecimiento y mortalidad indicaron un crecimiento más lento en el Putumayo que en otras cuencas de la Amazonia y una tasa de explotación relativamente elevada.(AU)

Population dynamics of Prochilodus nigricans (Characiformes: Prochilodontidae) in the Putumayo River

The black prochilodus (Prochilodus nigricans) is one of the most landed scaled fish species of the middle and upper parts of the Putumayo River, in the tri-national area between Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. Despite its importance, biological information about this species is too scant to guide fisheries management in this portion of the Colombian Amazon. In this study, 10884 individuals were sampled in the fish markets of Puerto Leguízamo between 2009 and 2017. This sampling was used to document reproductive patterns, but also growth and mortality parameters from length frequency distributions. The size at which all fish were mature was 22 cm Ls, which should be the established as the minimum size of capture to ensure that all fish have had a chance to reproduce before being caught. Growth and mortality parameters indicated a slower growth in the Putumayo than in other Amazonian rivers and a relatively high exploitation rate.(AU)

El bocachico (Prochilodus nigricans) es uno de los peces de escama más comercializados en la cuenca media y alta del río Putumayo en la zona tri-nacional entre Colombia, Ecuador y Perú. Sin embargo, a pesar de su importancia, existe muy poca información biológica sobre esta especie que permita guiar el manejo pesquero para este sector de la Amazonia colombiana. Para ello, fueron analizados 10884 ejemplares colectados en puntos de expendio de pescado y zonas de pesca aledaños a la ciudad de Puerto Leguízamo entre los años 2009 a 2017. Se determinaron los parámetros de reproducción, así como de crecimiento y de mortalidad en base a análisis de distribución de frecuencia de tallas. Se recomienda establecer la talla mínima de captura a 22 cm Le, talla a la cual todos los peces son maduros y han tenido la posibilidad de reproducirse por lo menos una vez ante su captura. Los parámetros de crecimiento y mortalidad indicaron un crecimiento más lento en el Putumayo que en otras cuencas de la Amazonia y una tasa de explotación relativamente elevada.(AU)