Thromboembolism in a bitch - diagnosis by infrared thermography

Background: Thermography is a noninvasive, non-contact, painless, and non-ionizing imaging technique that records cutaneous thermal patterns generated by infrared emission of the surface. The surface heat is closely related to dermal microcirculation. Thromboembolism is responsible for important changes in the thermal pattern of the body surface due to physical obstruction of blood flow, being the main complication in immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. The aim of this paper is to report a dog with thrombus in his left forelimb secondary to idiopathic hemolytic anemia, whose diagnostic screening was performed through infrared thermography. Case: A 9-year-old mixed breed bitch was referred to a veterinary hospital with a history of emesis, diarrhea and dark-colored urine for 2 days. The complete blood count showed hypochromic macrocytic anemia (hematocrit [HTC] 28%, reference: 37 to 55%) with the presence of nucleated erythrocyte (14/100 leukocytes, reference: 0 to 5/100 leukocytes), polychromasia and spherocytes. Leukocytosis (28,300 mm³, reference: 6,000 to 17,000 mm³) by neutrophilia with left deviation and toxic granulations was also present, in addition to hemoglobinuria at urine exam. Therefore, treatment for immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) was instituted. After 2 days, the animal returned with acute functional impairment of the left forelimb. Physical examination revealed that the limb was cold, without pulse, proprioception, reflexes, and deep pain. New blood analyses revealed decreased hematocrit (HTC 17%, reference: 37 to 55%), and increased total leukocyte number (57,000 mm3, reference: 6,000 to 17,000 mm³). Infrared thermography revealed an important temperature difference between the limbs, with the affected limb temperature considerably lower (31.3ºC) when compared to the contralateral limb (35.0ºC). Thermography showed the site of the thrombus in the medial portion of the limb (cephalic vein), where the catheter had been placed for fluid therapy. Due to the severity of the condition, the bitch was submitted to amputation surgery, which occurred without complications. The patient had a good response to treatment, with decreased signs of hemolysis and hypercoagulability. The medications were slowly withdrawn, and the clinical discharge occurred after 4 weeks. Discussion: In humans, thermography has been widely used in the assessment of thrombotic diseases, contributing to diagnosis, localization, and prognosis. In veterinary medicine, however, the use of this tool in the diagnosis of thromboembolism is still rare. The difference of 3.7°C between the affected and contralateral limb was objectively verified using thermography. A minimum difference of 2.4°C between limbs has high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing thromboembolism and occurs due to the reduction in local blood flow. In the present case this tool was essential for the anatomical location of the thrombus, which was in the middle third of the forearm, and allowed an adequate surgical planning. It is known that the main complication of IMHA is thromboembolism. Its predisposing factors include venous stasis, endothelial damage, and hypercoagulability, being exacerbated by cage confinement, decubitus and presence of a peripheral venous catheter. The reported case corroborates at least one of these factors since it had a peripheral venous catheter in the left forelimb, which later showed absence of pulse, spinal reflexes, pain and proprioception. The thermography showed to be an objective, rapid and non-invasive tool to diagnose and precisely locate the thrombus, which allowed for adequate treatment and surgical planning for the case. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report about use of thermography to diagnose thromboembolism secondary to immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in a dog.

Diagnostic applicability of infrared thermography in the evaluation of canine mammary tumors / Aplicabilidade diagnóstica da termografia infravermelha na avaliação dos tumores mamários caninos

Mammary tumors have a high prevalence in bitches and women, and are related to high rates of morbidity and mortality. For the human species, thermography has stood out as a diagnostic tool for breast cancer. However, its clinical benefit in bitches remains unknown. Thus, the goal of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic applicability of infrared thermography for canine mammary tumors, as well as to correlate tumor temperature with mitotic index and tumor volume. Thermographic and digital images of eight bitches with mammary neoplasms were captured. Thermograms were entered into the FLIR tools software and the temperature of 15 tumor and 15 healthy glands from the contralateral mammary chain was analyzed. There was no significant difference (p = 0.786) between the mean temperature of neoplastic (33.71°C ± 1.86) and healthy (33.54°C ± 1.59) glands. There was a negative and moderate correlation between tumor temperature and mitotic index (ρ = -0.52 p = 0.049). However, no correlation was detected between mammary temperature and tumor volume (p = 0.10). Although thermography allowed no distinction between neoplastic and healthy mammary glands in bitches, it may be promising to assess the proliferative rate of tumors. In addition, malignant neoplasms may be more often hypothermic than healthy tissue.(AU)

Os tumores mamários apresentam alta prevalência em cadelas e mulheres, sendo relacionados a elevadas taxas de morbidade e mortalidade. Para a espécie humana, a termografia tem se destacado como ferramenta diagnóstica do câncer de mama. Entretanto, o seu benefício clínico em cadelas permanece desconhecido. Assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi ava-liar a aplicabilidade diagnóstica da termografia infravermelha para os tumores mamários caninos, bem como correlacionar a temperatura tumoral com o índice mitótico e volume tumoral. Foram capturadas imagens termográficas e digitais de oito cadelas com neoplasias mamárias. Os termogramas foram inseridos no software FLIR tools e analisou-se a temperatura de 15 mamas tumorais e 15 hígidas da cadeia mamária contralateral. Não houve diferença significativa (p = 0,786) entre a tempera-tura média das glândulas neoplásicas (33,71°C ± 1,86) e saudáveis (33,54°C ± 1,59). Houve correlação negativa e moderada entre a temperatura tumoral e índice mitótico (ρ = -0,52 p = 0,049). Entretanto, não foi observada correlação entre tempe-ratura e volume tumoral (p = 0,10). Apesar da termografia não ter permitido a diferenciação das mamas neoplásicas e saudá-veis de cadelas, ela pode ser uma forma promissora para avaliação da taxa proliferativa dos tumores. Além disso, as neoplasias malignas podem apresentar-se mais frequentemente hipotérmicas em relação ao tecido saudável.(AU)

Assessment of thermal response, cardiorespiratory parameters and post-operative analgesia in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy with different combinations of epidural analgesia and isoflurane

This study aimed to evaluate the thermal response of the eyelids and lacrimal gland of the left eye (LETG) through infrared thermography (IRT), cardiorespiratory parameters, and their association with nociception and pain in bitches undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy (OVH) anesthetized with isoflurane and epidural analgesia. Twenty-one healthy bitches of different breeds were randomized into three groups receiving epidural blocks: GL (n=7), lidocaine (2 mg Kg-1 ); GLF (n=7), lidocaine (2 mg Kg-1 ) and fentanyl (3 µg Kg-1 ); and GLM (n=7), lidocaine (2 mg Kg-1 ) with morphine (0.1 mg Kg-1 ). IRT and cardiorespiratory parameters were evaluated at baseline (Ebasal), thirty minutes before anesthetic premedication, and at different surgical events: first incision (EInc), ligature and section of the left (ELoV), and right (ERoV) ovarian pedicle, ligature, and re-section of the cervix (EUt), and skin suture (ESut). The assessment of acute pain in the immediate post-operative period was registered at E1h, E2h, and E3h using IRT, the Dynamic Interactive Visual Analogic Scale (DIVAS), and the University of Melbourne Pain Scale (UMPS) scales. The results showed a statistically significant decrease in the lower eyelid surface temperature (LELT) during EInc for GL (32.9°C ± 0.62), in comparison to GLF (34.2°C ± 0.62) and GLM (35.3°C ± 0.62) (P = 0.006). Regarding LETG, a significant increase (P = 0.03) in the IRT of Ebasal (36.8°C ± 0.63) and EInc (36.1°C ± 0.63) for GLM was observed in comparison to the thermographic values for both perioperative events and groups. The GLM showed a significant decrease in IRT values of ERoV at E3h in the upper and lower eyelids (P = 0.03 and P = 0.01, respectively). A progressive and significant reduction of the IRT values of LETG was also recorded in GLM, with differences in ERoV (35.2 °C ± 0.63) (P = 0.02) and E3h (35.3 °C ± 0.63) (P = 0.01). The cardiovascular parameters (SAP, DAP, and MAP) did not differ between treatments, but in GL, there was a significant difference (P = 0.01) during EInc and ESut, compared to Ebasal. In the body temperature, EInc and ESut gradually decreased in all treatment groups (P = 0.01). In conclusion, hemodynamic and cardiorespiratory stability was associated with IRT readings and the absence of nociception. Changes in superficial temperature in the immediate post-operative period were lessened using isoflurane and epidural analgesia of lidocaine alone or in combination with pure opioids. These findings were clinically validated to the DIVAS and UMPS acute pain assessment scales.

Cryopreservation of jaguar (Panthera onca) sperm cells using different cryoprotectants and different thawing temperatures

The cryopreservation of jaguar semen must be improved to produce high-quality biobanking doses. Until now, the rare studies of semen freezing in the species have only evaluated glycerol, always with a significant reduction in sperm quality in thawed semen. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of three cryoprotectants, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), glycerol (GLY), and methanol (MET), in the cryopreservation of jaguar semen in an LDL-based extender, as well as the effect of thawing temperature on dosage quality. Five mature males with a history of reproduction were used. On the males, an infrared thermal image (IRT) was captured, the spicules and testes were analyzed, and the CASA system was used to evaluate the quality of fresh and thawed sperm. The superficial IRT was 4.6 ± 1.2 °C cooler than the anal sphincter, and the semen measured between 27.3 and 28.7 °C shortly after exiting the urethra. The total motility of fresh sperm was 55.3 ± 22.6%, and progressive motility was 36.3 ± 18%. The total motility of thawed sperm was 5.28 ± 2.51%, 4.49 ± %2.49, and 0.51 ± 0.62% for DMSO, GLY, and MET, respectively. DMSO and GLY performed better than MET, and there was no difference in thawing temperature (37°C 30 s vs. 50°C 12 s). All animals exhibit a considerable level of morphological changes in sperm. Low amounts of total and progressive motility were found in the thawed sperm. Males with a high level of sperm morphological changes were found to be fertile, but the lone male with normospermia was infertile. Thus, we contest the applicability of the commonly used morphological classification for bovines to felid species.(AU)

Termografia infravermelha na avicultura / Infrared thermography in poultry / Termografía infrarroja en aves

A avicultura brasileira é considerada a atividade agropecuária de maior destaque mundial. Avicultura de corte é uma das atividades de grande relevância na economia, nos últimos anos gerou um faturamento anual de US$ 20bilhões. Logo, para manter a posição em produção e exportação o país vem buscando inovações para atender as exigências internacionais de qualidade e de bem-estar animal. Para a produção as aves se fazem necessário um ambiente interno adequado. Para isso é necessário temperaturas e umidades adaptadas para cada idade da ave. Estudos utilizando a termografia infravermelha vem se tornando uma das tecnologias mais requisitadas na área de produção animal, sendo um método não invasivo capaz de avaliar a temperatura através da energia emitida pela superfície do corpo animal e transformá-la em uma imagem visível ao olho humano.A partir do exposto, o objetivo do presente estudo foi discutir o uso da termografia infravermelha na avicultura, com ênfase em frangos, galinhas poedeiras e codornas. Para tanto realizou-se um estudo descritivo com procedimento técnico de revisão de literatura. Foi possível observar que a tecnologia de termografia infravermelha é uma ferramenta que vem sendo utilizada em diversas pesquisas, especialmente que envolvem as galinhas poedeiras e frangos de corte, e se mostram altamente eficazes e seguras. Em codornas esses estudos ainda são escassos. Demostrando assim que mais estudos devem ser desenvolvidos com esses animais. A utilização da termografia infravermelha é uma alternativa para determinar o impacto das condições ambientais na produção animal, auxiliando na tomada de decisão e promovendo a saúde e o bem-estar dos animais.o objetivo do presente estudo foi discutir o uso da termografia infravermelha na avicultura, com ênfase em frangos, galinhas poedeiras e codornas. Para tanto realizou-se um estudo descritivo com procedimento técnico de revisão de literatura. Foi possível observar que a tecnologia de termografia infravermelha é uma ferramenta que vem sendo utilizada em diversas pesquisas, especialmente que envolvem as galinhas poedeiras e frangos de corte, e se mostram altamente eficazes e seguras. Em codornas esses estudos ainda são escassos. Demostrando assim que mais estudos devem ser desenvolvidos com esses animais. A utilização da termografia infravermelha é uma alternativa para determinar o impacto das condições ambientais na produção animal, auxiliando na tomada de decisão e promovendo a saúde e o bem-estar dos animais.o objetivo do presente estudo foi discutir o uso da termografia infravermelha na avicultura, com ênfase em frangos, galinhas poedeiras e codornas. Para tanto realizou-se um estudo descritivo com procedimento técnico de revisão de literatura. Foi possível observar que a tecnologia de termografia infravermelha é uma ferramenta que vem sendo utilizada em diversas pesquisas, especialmente que envolvem as galinhas poedeiras e frangos de corte, e se mostram altamente eficazes e seguras. Em codornas esses estudos ainda são escassos. Demostrando assim que mais estudos devem ser desenvolvidos com esses animais. A utilização da termografia infravermelha é uma alternativa para determinar o impacto das condições ambientais na produção animal, auxiliando na tomada de decisão e promovendo a saúde e o bem-estar dos animais.(AU)

Brazilian poultry is considered the most prominent agricultural activity in the world. Poultry farming is one of the most important activities in the economy, in recent years it has generated annual revenues of US$ 20 billion. Therefore, to maintain its position in production and export, the country has been seeking innovations to meet international quality and animal welfare requirements. To produce birds, a suitable indoor environment is necessary. For this it is necessary temperatures and humidity adapted to each age of the bird. Studies using infrared thermography has become one of the most requested technologies in animal production, being a non-invasive method capable of evaluating the temperature through the energy emitted by the surface of the animal body and transforming it into an image visible to the human eye. From the above, the objective of the present study was to discuss the use of infrared thermography in poultry, with emphasis on chickens, laying hens and quails. For this purpose, a descriptive study was carried out with a technical literature review procedure. It was possible to observe that infrared thermography technology is a tool that has been used in several research, especially involving laying hens and broilers, and is shown to be highly effective and safe. In quails these studies are still scarce. This demonstrates that further studies should be carried out with these animals. The use of infrared thermography is an alternative to determine the impact of environmental conditions on animal production, assisting in decision making and promoting the health and welfare of animals.(AU)

La avicultura brasileña es considerada la actividad agrícola más destacada del mundo. La avicultura es una de las actividades más importantes de la economía, en los últimos años ha generado ingresos anuales de US$ 20 mil millones. Por lo tanto, para mantener su posición en la producción y exportación, el país ha estado buscando innovaciones para cumplir con los requisitos internacionales de calidad y bienestar animal. Para la producción, las aves necesitan un ambiente interior adecuado. Para ello es necesario temperaturas y humedades adaptadas a cada edad del ave. Los estudios mediante termografía infrarroja se han convertido en una de las tecnologías más solicitadas en el área de producción animal, siendo un método no invasivo capaz de evaluar la temperatura a través de la energía emitida por la superficie del cuerpo animal y transformarla en una imagen visible. al ojo humano. A partir de lo anterior, el objetivo del presente estudio fue discutir el uso de la termografía infrarroja en la avicultura, con énfasis en pollos, gallinas ponedoras y codornices. Para ello, se realizó un estudio descriptivo con un procedimiento de revisión técnica de la literatura. Se pudo observar que la tecnología de termografía infrarroja es una herramienta que ha sido utilizada en diversas investigaciones, especialmente en gallinas ponedoras y pollos de engorde, y se muestra altamente efectiva y segura. En codornices estos estudios son aún escasos. Esto demuestra que se deben realizar más estudios con estos animales. El uso de la termografía infrarroja es una alternativa para determinar el impacto de las condiciones ambientales en la producción animal, auxiliando en la toma de decisiones y promoviendo la salud y el bienestar de los animales.(AU)

Termografia infravermelha aplicada ao diagnóstico de mastite subclínica / Infrared thermography applied in diagnosis of subclinical mastites

A mastite é uma doença inflamatória de alta incidência nos rebanhos leiteiros de todo o mundo, sendo responsável por grandes prejuízos econômicos na cadeia produtiva do leite. Existem diversos testes para a detecção da forma subclínica da doença, sendo os mais utilizados: a contagem de células somáticas (CCS) e o California Mastitis Test (CMT). No entanto, esses testes possuem algumas limitações práticas, como a interpretação subjetiva, o que pode resultar em diagnósticos falso-positivos. Diante desses aspectos, novas tecnologias vêm sendo estudadas para auxiliar o diagnóstico precoce da mastite subclínica, dentre as quais a termografia infravermelha (TIV), que é um método não invasivo de diagnóstico por imagem. Dessa forma, o objetivo desta revisão foi discutir sobre a técnica de termografia infravermelha e sua aplicabilidade no diagnóstico de mastite subclínica. A TIV tem sido empregada, com sucesso, em várias áreas da produção animal de precisão, inclusive no diagnóstico de mastite, sendo relatadas alterações térmicas na superfície do úbere antes do aparecimento dos sintomas clínicos e sua correlação com a CCS do leite. O uso dessa tecnologia se mostra promissor para a detecção do estado não saudável do úbere, mesmo na forma subclínica. Entretanto, mais estudos devem ser realizados para que se avalie a aplicabilidade da técnica em rebanhos comerciais.

Mastitis is an inflammatory disease of high incidence in dairy herds around the world, resulting in great economic losses in the milk production chain. There are several tests to detect the subclinical form of this disease, where the most applied are the somatic cell count (SCC) and the California Mastitis Test (CMT). However, due to their subjectivity, these tests can result in false-positive diagnoses. Therefore, new technologies have been studied for the early diagnosis of subclinical mastitis, including infrared thermography (IRT), which is a non-invasive diagnostic approach. Thus, this review aimed to discuss the infrared thermography technique and its applicability in the diagnosis of subclinical mastitis. The IRT has been successfully applied in numerous areas of precision animal production, including mastitis diagnosis, showing thermal alterations on the udder surface before the onset of clinical symptoms that are linked to milk SCC. Therefore, the use of this technology is a promising strategy to detect the unhealthy udder state, even in the subclinical form. However, further studies should be carried out to assess the applicability of this technique in commercial herds.

Infrared thermography as a technique for detecting subclinical bovine mastitis / Termografia infravermelha como técnica para detecção de mastite bovina subclinical

Infrared thermography is a non-invasive diagnostic tool for early detection of subclinical mastitis in pasture-raised dairy cows. The study was conducted on eight dairy farms, in Sena Madureira, Acre, in the Western Amazon, during the rainy season. One hundred and thirteen lactating crossbred cows were monitored, with measurements performed once day before milking, from 02:00 to 06:00 in the morning. The California Mastitis Test (CMT) was subsequently applied. Data processing was performed in the R programming language and evaluated by linear models. Our results show that cow udder surface temperature by infrared thermography showed significant differences (p<0.05) between the months of the year. Cow udder temperatures of thermographic images were significantly different (p<0.05) from CMT results for animals with subclinical mastitis. CMT results showed that 45 cows (39.8%) in January, 52 cows (46%) in February and 57 cows (50.4%) in March had subclinical mastitis. Infrared thermography is a technique that can be used for the early detection of subclinical mastitis in dairy herds in a grazing system, as it detected an increase in the udder surface temperature of the same cows that were positive for CMT.

Avaliou-se a termografia infravermelha como ferramenta diagnóstica, não invasiva, para detecção precoce da mastite subclínica em vacas leiteiras criadas a pasto. O estudo foi conduzido em oito propriedades leiteiras, em Sena Madureira, Acre, na Amazônia Ocidental, durante o inverno amazônico. Foram monitoradas 113 vacas mestiças em lactação, com mensurações realizadas uma vez por dia, sempre antes da realizadas das 2h às 6h da manhã. Em seguida, realizou-se exame de Califórnia Mastitis Test-CMT. O ordenha, processamento dos dados foi feito em linguagem de programação R, os quais foram avaliados por modelos lineares. Os resultados mostram que a temperatura da superfície do úbere das vacas avaliadas com a técnica da termografia infravermelha teve diferenças significativas (P<0,05) entre os meses do ano. Constatou-se alteração na na temperatura do úbere das vacas, captada por meio das imagens termográficas, e foi i significativo (P<0,05) o resultado do teste California Mastistis Test (CMT) para os animais que se encontravam com mastite subclínica. Com base nos resultados do CMT, foi possível constatar que 45 vacas (39,8%) em janeiro, 52 vacas (46%) em fevereiro e 57 vacas (50,4%) em março se encontravam com mastite subclínica. Conclui-se que a termografia infravermelha é uma técnica que pode ser utilizada para a detecção precoce de mastite subclínica em rebanho leiteiro em sistema de pastejo, pois foi capaz de detectar aumento na temperatura superficial do úbere das vacas, que resultaram positivas no teste de CMT.

Mandibulectomia em um bovino - Relato de caso / Mandybulectomy in a bovine - Case report abstract / Mandibulectomia a en bovinos - Reporte de caso

A fratura é uma descontinuidade óssea, completa ou incompleta. Fraturas mandibulares em ruminantes são provocadas por malformações congênitas, neoplasias, manipulação obstétrica e traumas. Essas patologias causam defeitos segmentares da mandíbula que requerem interversões cirúrgicas. Relata-se caso de fratura completa bilateral em região de meridiano mandibular em um bezerro da raça Braford de vinte dias de idade, atendido no Hospital Veterinário de Grandes Animais da FAIT, Itapeva-SP. O animal apresentou protusão de língua, sialorreia, taquicardia, edema na região mandibular, odor fétido e secreção purulenta. Segundo a confirmação radiográfica e achados de termografia infravermelha, o tratamento consistiu na cirurgia de mandibulectomia bilateral. Conclui-se que a mandibulectomia, aplicada devido abordagem tardia e inviabilidade do tecido mole, não proporciona adaptação a dieta com volumoso, comprometendo a expectativa de vida do bovino.(AU)

Fracture is a bone discontinuity, complete or incomplete. Congenital malformations, neoplasms, obstetric manipulation andtrauma cause mandibular fractures in ruminants. These pathologies cause segmental defects of the mandible that require surgical interventions. We report a case of complete bilateral fracture in the region of the mandibular meridian in a twenty-day-old Braford calf, treated at the Large Animal Veterinary Hospital of FAIT, Itapeva-SP. The animal presented tongue protrusion, drooling, tachycardia, edema in the mandibular region, foul odor and purulent secretion. According to radiographic confirmation and infrared thermography findings, treatment consisted of bilateral mandibulectomy surgery.It is concluded that mandibulectomy, applied due to late approach and infeasibility of the soft tissue, does not provide adaptation to bulky feeds, compromising the life expectancy of the bovine.(AU)

La fractura es una discontinuidad ósea, completa o incompleta. Las fracturas mandibulares en rumiantes son causadas por malformaciones congénitas, neoplasias, manipulación obstétrica y traumatismos. Estas patologías provocan defectos segmentarios de la mandíbula que requieren intervenciones quirúrgicas. Presentamos un caso de fractura bilateral completa en la región del meridiano mandibular en un ternero de veinte días de edad atendido en el Hospital Veterinario de Grandes Animales de la FAIT, Itapeva-SP. El animal presentaba protrusión de la lengua, babeo, taquicardia, edema en la región mandibular, mal olor y secreción purulenta. Según la confirmación radiográfica y los hallazgos de la termografía infrarroja, el tratamiento consistió en una cirugía de mandibulectomía bilateral. Se concluye que la mandibulectomía, aplicada por abordaje tardío e inviabilidad de los tejidos blandos, no proporciona adaptación a la dieta con fibra, comprometiendo la expectativa de vida del bovino.(AU)

Total heat loss in broilers fed with different lipid sources

To meet the growing demand for poultry products, many producers have decided to increase the density of animals per square meter. This, coupled with global warming, creates a severe problem for the poultry industry, as it is common to observe birds moving away from the thermal comfort zone. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of three lipid sources and three levels of inclusion in broiler diets on sensible heat loss. Three hundred twenty-four female broilers from the Ross 308 line were housed in cages in an open house and distributed into nine different treatments. The body surface temperature was observed with an infrared thermography camera. Heat loss was analyzed by radiation, and convection was calculated by equations at weeks three, four, and six of broiler life, considering the importance of measuring and analyzing the following variables: wind speed, bird weight, bird area, ambient temperature, and relative humidity, among others. The treatments had no significant effect on Qt; however, the inclusion of palm oil, chicken oil at 3%, and sacha inchi oil at 9% can be an alternative in broiler chicken feed since they tend to reduce Qt at day 42 of life.

Anatomical, physiological, and behavioral mechanisms of thermoregulation in elephants

Elephants use different thermoregulatory mechanisms that depend on the anatomical and morphological characteristics of the species. The crevices and wrinkles of the skin enhance the water-retention capacity of the epidermis. The highly vascularized ear is another region of particular interest, as its movement and vasomotor changes promote heat dissipation. Generally, these mechanisms are modulated by the hypothalamic thermoregulatory center and by the peripheral response of animals. Nonetheless, elephants are currently exposed to alterations in their habitats, such as global warming and climatic changes, which challenge their homeothermy. This article aims to discuss the thermoregulation mechanisms of African (Loxodonta africana) and Asian (Elephas maximus) elephants from an anatomical, physiological, and behavioral basis. The practical implications of these elements will be analyzed to implement tools, such as infrared thermography, or environmental enrichment, as strategies to promote the thermal balance of elephants.

Influence of season and external morphology on thermal comfort and physiological responses in bulls from two breeds adapted to a subtropical climate

ABSTRACT Animals in subtropical regions can be exposed to periods of thermal stress. Locally adapted breeds are especially important in this context, but these have little information available in their natural environments. The aim of this study was to assess whether season affects thermal comfort and physiological responses to increased temperatures of two breeds of bulls in a subtropical climate. Four Angus and four Crioulo Lageano bulls were used in this study. Body and testicles measurements, skin pigmentation and thickness, hair number, length and pigmentation, respiratory rate, panting score, rectal temperature and haematological profile were recorded on three occasions in summer and winter, morning and afternoon. The surface temperature of the flank, eye and scrotum were obtained by infrared thermography. Hair coat colour was determined by CIELAB method. Thermal comfort indexes were calculated from meteorological data. Statistical analysis included analyses of variance, correlations and a partial least squares regression in determining which traits were the most important in thermal adaptability. External morphology of the bulls was important for explaining physiological changes in both seasons, but their contribution was greater in summer. Bulls experienced moderate heat stress in summer, which led to significant physiological responses, which were more pronounced in Angus bulls. The main differences in thermal adaptation found between breeds were the hair coat characteristics and respiratory rate. Despite using different mechanisms to cope with environmental challenges, all bulls were able to maintain optimal testicular thermoregulation as well as systemic normothermia throughout the seasons, showing good adaptation to the climate conditions.

RESUMO Animais em regiões subtropicais podem ser expostos ao estresse térmico. As raças localmente adaptadas são especialmente importantes nesse contexto, mas possuem pouca informação disponível em seus ambientes naturais. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar se a estação afeta o conforto térmico e as respostas fisiológicas ao aumento da temperatura de duas raças de touros em clima subtropical. Quatro touros Angus e quatro Crioulo Lageano foram utilizados neste estudo. As medidas do corpo e testículos, pigmentação e espessura da pele, número, comprimento e pigmentação de pêlos, frequência respiratória, escore ofegante, temperatura retal e perfil hematológico foram registradas no verão e inverno, manhã e tarde. A temperatura da superfície do flanco, olho e escroto foi obtida por termografia infravermelho. Os índices de conforto térmico foram calculados a partir de dados meteorológicos. A análise estatística incluiu análises de variância, correlações e uma regressão parcial de mínimos quadrados para determinar quais características foram as mais importantes na adaptabilidade térmica. A morfologia externa dos touros foi importante para explicar as mudanças fisiológicas nas duas estações, mas sua contribuição foi maior no verão. Os touros sofreram estresse térmico moderado no verão, o que levou a respostas fisiológicas significativas, que foram mais pronunciadas na Angus. As principais diferenças de adaptação térmica encontradas entre as raças foram as características do pêlo e a frequência respiratória. Apesar de usar diferentes mecanismos para lidar com os desafios ambientais, todos os touros foram capazes de manter a termorregulação testicular ideal e a normotermia, mostrando boa adaptação às condições climáticas.

Ingestive behavior and infrared thermography of Holstein × Zebu crossbreed cows in the final third of gestation in different pastoral environments

This study aimed to evaluate the ingestive behavior and body surface temperature of F1 Holstein × Zebu cows that were non-lactating in the final third of gestation and managed in two pastoral environments. Forty F1 Holstein × Zebu cows divided into two pastoral environments were evaluated: signal grass (Urochloa decumbens cv. Basilisk) deferred at the beginning of regrowth and pasture of xaraés grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Xaraés) in vegetative growth in four periods during the day (morning, afternoon, night and dawn), following the completely randomized design in a factorial scheme. Each cow is the experimental unit. The total grazing time was 32.22% higher in the signal grass than xaraés grass (averageof 479.50 minutes). There was an interaction between the pastoral environments and the times of day on the black globe temperature and humidity index (BGHI). In the pasture of signal grass, the BGHI was 19.07% higher in the morning and afternoon periods than the average (68.95) verified during the night and dawn. F1 Holstein × Zebu cows grazing time in the final third of gestation is influenced by the pasture condition and not by the climate since they feed in a high BGHI environment.(AU)

Ingestive behavior and infrared thermography of Holstein × Zebu crossbreed cows in the final third of gestation in different pastoral environments

This study aimed to evaluate the ingestive behavior and body surface temperature of F1 Holstein × Zebu cows that were non-lactating in the final third of gestation and managed in two pastoral environments. Forty F1 Holstein × Zebu cows divided into two pastoral environments were evaluated: signal grass (Urochloa decumbens cv. Basilisk) deferred at the beginning of regrowth and pasture of xaraés grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Xaraés) in vegetative growth in four periods during the day (morning, afternoon, night and dawn), following the completely randomized design in a factorial scheme. Each cow is the experimental unit. The total grazing time was 32.22% higher in the signal grass than xaraés grass (averageof 479.50 minutes). There was an interaction between the pastoral environments and the times of day on the black globe temperature and humidity index (BGHI). In the pasture of signal grass, the BGHI was 19.07% higher in the morning and afternoon periods than the average (68.95) verified during the night and dawn. F1 Holstein × Zebu cows grazing time in the final third of gestation is influenced by the pasture condition and not by the climate since they feed in a high BGHI environment.(AU)

Ingestive behavior and infrared thermography of Holstein × Zebu crossbreed cows in the final third of gestation in different pastoral environments

This study aimed to evaluate the ingestive behavior and body surface temperature of F1 Holstein × Zebu cows that were non-lactating in the final third of gestation and managed in two pastoral environments. Forty F1 Holstein × Zebu cows divided into two pastoral environments were evaluated: signal grass (Urochloa decumbens cv. Basilisk) deferred at the beginning of regrowth and pasture of xaraés grass (Urochloa brizantha cv. Xaraés) in vegetative growth in four periods during the day (morning, afternoon, night and dawn), following the completely randomized design in a factorial scheme. Each cow is the experimental unit. The total grazing time was 32.22% higher in the signal grass than xaraés grass (averageof 479.50 minutes). There was an interaction between the pastoral environments and the times of day on the black globe temperature and humidity index (BGHI). In the pasture of signal grass, the BGHI was 19.07% higher in the morning and afternoon periods than the average (68.95) verified during the night and dawn. F1 Holstein × Zebu cows grazing time in the final third of gestation is influenced by the pasture condition and not by the climate since they feed in a high BGHI environment.

Thermal biology in river buffalo in the humid tropics: neurophysiological and behavioral responses assessed by infrared thermography

The present review aims to analyze the effect of extremely hot climates on the neurophysiological responses of thermal control and behavior in the river buffalo. Understanding thermal neuromodulation and its effects on the buffalo's behavior is of central importance, for this will allow us to make better decisions in terms of improving the level of welfare of buffaloes living in environments characterized by extreme heat, such as the humid tropics. The thermoregulation process involves a complex mechanism that begins with the integration of peripheral signals that are sent to the lateral parabrachial nucleus of the brainstem and then to the preoptic nucleus of the hypothalamus to generate physiological variations such as vasodilatation to dissipate heat under conditions of thermal stress, or vasoconstriction to conserve heat upon the perception of cold stimuli. The thermal biology of the river buffalo is based on several different adaptation mechanisms. The infrared thermography (IRT) technique will be of great help in this area because it permits the detection of vascular microcirculation changes in different thermal windows under adverse climatic conditions. Although buffaloes are classified as rustic animals, it is important to take into account their morpho-physiology and thermoregulation mechanisms to prevent thermal stress and the resulting poor welfare and reduced productivity. However, if appropriate thermoregulation facilities are provided (i.e., ponds, pools, potholes, or swampy areas), buffaloes can properly thermoregulate and tolerate high ambient temperatures. Therefore, they may represent a good option and an appropriate animal-based enterprise under climate change and global warming conditions.(AU)

Thermal biology in river buffalo in the humid tropics: neurophysiological and behavioral responses assessed by infrared thermography

The present review aims to analyze the effect of extremely hot climates on the neurophysiological responses of thermal control and behavior in the river buffalo. Understanding thermal neuromodulation and its effects on the buffalo's behavior is of central importance, for this will allow us to make better decisions in terms of improving the level of welfare of buffaloes living in environments characterized by extreme heat, such as the humid tropics. The thermoregulation process involves a complex mechanism that begins with the integration of peripheral signals that are sent to the lateral parabrachial nucleus of the brainstem and then to the preoptic nucleus of the hypothalamus to generate physiological variations such as vasodilatation to dissipate heat under conditions of thermal stress, or vasoconstriction to conserve heat upon the perception of cold stimuli. The thermal biology of the river buffalo is based on several different adaptation mechanisms. The infrared thermography (IRT) technique will be of great help in this area because it permits the detection of vascular microcirculation changes in different thermal windows under adverse climatic conditions. Although buffaloes are classified as rustic animals, it is important to take into account their morpho-physiology and thermoregulation mechanisms to prevent thermal stress and the resulting poor welfare and reduced productivity. However, if appropriate thermoregulation facilities are provided (i.e., ponds, pools, potholes, or swampy areas), buffaloes can properly thermoregulate and tolerate high ambient temperatures. Therefore, they may represent a good option and an appropriate animal-based enterprise under climate change and global warming conditions.

Pulmonary adenocarcinoma in dogs: surgical treatment with real-time video-thermometry

Background: Pulmonary neoplasia is an abnormal proliferation of cells at the lung tissue, and may be classified as primary, secondary or metastatic, and multisystemic. However, primary neoplasia is rare in canids. Additionally, neoplasms may be classified according to their biological behavior as either malignant or benign. Malignant tumors are more prevalent. The diagnosis can be difficult due to nonspecific symptoms, taking into account that some affected patients do not have symptoms at all; thus, the real incidence of the disease might remain undiagnosed on certain occasions. Therefore, we aimed to report an unprecedented successful case of lung lobectomy surgery in dogs with the aid of infrared video thermometry, which showed real-time images during the surgical procedure. Case: A 10-year-old male dog, crossbreed with Cocker Spaniel, was attended with a history of lethargy, dullness, progressive weight loss, cough, and difficulty breathing. Due to the chronic severity of the clinical signs and the normal physiological clinical examination, complementary exams were requested, such as radiography of the cervical and thoracic regions, cranial and thoracoabdominal computed tomography (TCT). The results of the exams showed the presence of a nodule mass in the right caudal pulmonary lobe which caused a lateral deviation to the left hemithorax of the cardiac silhouette. The patient underwent a surgical procedure with an approach through the thoracic region, at the height of the seventh intercostal space, and a total lobectomy was performed. Throughout the surgical procedure, video thermometry in real-time through the MART station (Metabolic Activity in Real-Time FLIR SC325®) was used to determine the viability of adjacent tissues through temperature differences measured in degrees Celsius. The surgical fragment containing the direct caudal pulmonary lobe and the mass were sent to the pathology sector for anatomopathological evaluation. An abundant papillary epithelial proliferation was visualized through microscopy, presenting areas of necrosis and inflammatory polymorphonuclear infiltrate. The nodule was diagnosed as lung papillary adenocarcinoma. Discussion: Adenocarcinomas consist of papillary, acinar, solid, or mixed glandular structures. They may originate from the airways, bronchial glands, or bronchoalveolar region, and often show invasive growth presenting a rudimentary and irregular shape. The clinical signs are non-specific, including exercise intolerance, non-productive cough, chronic respiratory signs such as tachypnoea or dyspnea, reduced appetite, weight loss, lethargy, chest palpation pain, hemothorax, pneumothorax, and pleural effusion. The diagnosis is concluded through imaging diagnostic tests, of which chest radiography is the most important, followed by magnetic resonance and computed tomography. Also, histopathological examination is essential to determine a definitive diagnosis. The treatment of choice for adenocarcinoma nodules is a surgical excision of the tumor mass. However, the type of surgical approach is determined by different factors such as size, location, and involvement of adjacent structures. The ablation of pulmonary masses may be performed either via partial or total lobectomies. Nevertheless, partial lobectomy is more often performed on non-neoplastic masses or to obtain material for biopsy, whilst total lobectomy is recommended for a malignant neoplasm removal. The prognosis is always guarded, having a more favorable outcome in masses of the smaller diameter without the involvement of adjacent structures.(AU)

Thermal homeostasis in the newborn puppy: behavioral and physiological responses

Adaptation to extrauterine life brings about various changes, which initially are reflected in physiological alterations in the newborn puppy. Also, the newborn puppy's thermoregulating capacity is deficient, and many of the physiological processes for survival depend on this capacity. Severe modifications in body temperature can lead to hypothermia in a few hours. Hence, the first 24 to 72 h of life correspond to the highest risk time, in which the newborn can course with moderate to severe hypothermia because the shivering reflexes and vasoconstriction mechanisms are not yet developed in the newborn of this species. Temperature stabilization is reached up to the 18th day of age. However, the colostrum's adequate consumption could provide a high energy supply, contributing to a fast recovery of temperature and, consequently, to a high survival rate. This review aims to analyze the factors that affect thermoregulation of the newborn puppy, the physiological and behavioral responses, as well as to discuss the influence of the colostrum as an energy source and production of heat to face hypothermia, aside from discussing recent scientific findings of infrared thermography (IRT) used to assess the thermal response of the newborn puppy to cope with hypothermia.(AU)

Thermal homeostasis in the newborn puppy: behavioral and physiological responses

Adaptation to extrauterine life brings about various changes, which initially are reflected in physiological alterations in the newborn puppy. Also, the newborn puppy's thermoregulating capacity is deficient, and many of the physiological processes for survival depend on this capacity. Severe modifications in body temperature can lead to hypothermia in a few hours. Hence, the first 24 to 72 h of life correspond to the highest risk time, in which the newborn can course with moderate to severe hypothermia because the shivering reflexes and vasoconstriction mechanisms are not yet developed in the newborn of this species. Temperature stabilization is reached up to the 18th day of age. However, the colostrum's adequate consumption could provide a high energy supply, contributing to a fast recovery of temperature and, consequently, to a high survival rate. This review aims to analyze the factors that affect thermoregulation of the newborn puppy, the physiological and behavioral responses, as well as to discuss the influence of the colostrum as an energy source and production of heat to face hypothermia, aside from discussing recent scientific findings of infrared thermography (IRT) used to assess the thermal response of the newborn puppy to cope with hypothermia.

Influence of season and external morphology on thermal comfort and physiological responses in bulls from two breeds adapted to a subtropical climate / Influência da estação e da morfologia externa no conforto térmico e respostas fisiológicas em touros de duas raças adaptadas a um clima subtropical

Animals in subtropical regions can be exposed to periods of thermal stress. Locally adapted breeds are especially important in this context, but these have little information available in their natural environments. The aim of this study was to assess whether season affects thermal comfort and physiological responses to increased temperatures of two breeds of bulls in a subtropical climate. Four Angus and four Crioulo Lageano bulls were used in this study. Body and testicles measurements, skin pigmentation and thickness, hair number, length and pigmentation, respiratory rate, panting score, rectal temperature and haematological profile were recorded on three occasions in summer and winter, morning and afternoon. The surface temperature of the flank, eye and scrotum were obtained by infrared thermography. Hair coat colour was determined by CIELAB method. Thermal comfort indexes were calculated from meteorological data. Statistical analysis included analyses of variance, correlations and a partial least squares regression in determining which traits were the most important in thermal adaptability. External morphology of the bulls was important for explaining physiological changes in both seasons, but their contribution was greater in summer. Bulls experienced moderate heat stress in summer, which led to significant physiological responses, which were more pronounced in Angus bulls. The main differences in thermal adaptation found between breeds were the hair coat characteristics and respiratory rate. Despite using different mechanisms to cope with environmental challenges, all bulls were able to maintain optimal testicular thermoregulation as well as systemic normothermia throughout the seasons, showing good adaptation to the climate conditions.(AU)

Animais em regiões subtropicais podem ser expostos ao estresse térmico. As raças localmente adaptadas são especialmente importantes nesse contexto, mas possuem pouca informação disponível em seus ambientes naturais. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar se a estação afeta o conforto térmico e as respostas fisiológicas ao aumento da temperatura de duas raças de touros em clima subtropical. Quatro touros Angus e quatro Crioulo Lageano foram utilizados neste estudo. As medidas do corpo e testículos, pigmentação e espessura da pele, número, comprimento e pigmentação de pêlos, frequência respiratória, escore ofegante, temperatura retal e perfil hematológico foram registradas no verão e inverno, manhã e tarde. A temperatura da superfície do flanco, olho e escroto foi obtida por termografia infravermelho. Os índices de conforto térmico foram calculados a partir de dados meteorológicos. A análise estatística incluiu análises de variância, correlações e uma regressão parcial de mínimos quadrados para determinar quais características foram as mais importantes na adaptabilidade térmica. A morfologia externa dos touros foi importante para explicar as mudanças fisiológicas nas duas estações, mas sua contribuição foi maior no verão. Os touros sofreram estresse térmico moderado no verão, o que levou a respostas fisiológicas significativas, que foram mais pronunciadas na Angus. As principais diferenças de adaptação térmica encontradas entre as raças foram as características do pêlo e a frequência respiratória. Apesar de usar diferentes mecanismos para lidar com os desafios ambientais, todos os touros foram capazes de manter a termorregulação testicular ideal e a normotermia, mostrando boa adaptação às condições climáticas.(AU)