Histopathological examination of the protective effect of intense exercise in apoptotic germ cell damage due to diabetes

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the protective and antioxidative effects of intensive exercise on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced testicular damage, apoptotic spermatognial cells death, and oxidative stress. Methods: 36 male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into three groups: control, diabetes, and diabetes+intensive exercise (IE) groups. Testicular tissues were examined histopathologically and antioxidant enzymes, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA) activity, as well as serum testosterone level, were measured. Results: Seminiferous tubules and germ cells were found to be better in the testis tissue of the intense exercise group than in the diabetes group. Diabetes suppressed antioxidant enzymes CAT, SOD, GPx and testosterone levels were significantly decreased, and increased MDA level in the diabetic group compared to diabetes+IE group (p < 0.001). Following four weeks of treatment, intensive exercise improved the antioxidant defense, significantly decreased MDA activity, and increased testosterone levels in testicular tissue in the diabetic group compared to diabetes+IE group (p < 0.01). Conclusion: STZ-induced diabetes causes damage to the testis tissue. In order to prevent these damages, exercise practice has become very popular nowadays. In present study, our intensive exercise protocol, histological, and biochemical analysis of the effect of diabetes on the testicular tissues is shown.

Eletrocardiografia basal e após exercício em cães braquicefálicos / Baseline and post exercise electrocardiography in brachycephalic dogs

Background: The brachycephalic dog breeds have been increasing in Brazil, and these animals are predisposed to present the brachycephalic dog syndrome, consisting of anatomical defects that lead to physiological changes and clinical signs such as wheezing, dyspnea, and hypoxia. Electrocardiography (ECG) is a simple test that can detect disturbances in the electrical activity of the heart, including changes present in hypoxia. The brachycephalic dog syndrome can lead to pulmonary hypertension due to hypoxia. Based on this, the present work aimed to evaluate the ECG of brachycephalic dogs in search of significant changes in heart rhythm, ECG waves, and cardiac axis. Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty-nine dogs were evaluated in this study, 19 brachycephalic and 10 mesaticephalic, after approval by an ethics committee the animals were selected. Electrocardiographic examinations were performed in 2 stages, at rest and immediately after a 3-min trot. The exam was performed with a computerized electrocardiograph, with a standard time of 5 min. The standard positioning for performing the examination was the right lateral decubitus position. To improve the electrical conductivity, 70% alcohol was used between the animal's skin and the electrodes. In statistical analysis, paired t test was performed for comparison of the same group before and after exercise and unpaired t test between groups at the same moments, considering P < 0.05 as significant. Nineteen brachycephalic animals were evaluated, 10 Pugs and 9 French Bulldogs, 9 males and 10 females. The mean age was 3.4 ± 1.8 years; and the mean weight was 12.5 kg ± 2.7 kg. In the control group, consisting of ten mesaticephalic animals, all were non-breed, three males and seven females; the mean age and weight in this group were 4.4 ± 1.5 years and 7.5 kg ± 0.5 kg, respectively. There was a significant increase in heart rate (bpm) after exercise in brachycephalic dogs (baseline: 119.3 ± 4.3; after exercise: 135.1 ± 4.9; P = 0.0005). The same occurred for P wave amplitude (mV) (baseline: 0.20 ± 0.01; after exercise: 0.22 ± 0.01; P = 0.0001). These differences were not found in the control group. There were no alterations in the duration of the P wave, PR interval, QRS complex, and QT interval, and all were within normal values for the species in both groups. The R-wave amplitude remained unaltered and within normal values in both the control and brachycephalic groups. Discussion: The elevation in heart rate may be associated with the chemoreflex secondary to the increased demand for oxygenation during exercise and the hypoxia generated by it. The increase in P amplitude suggests right atrial overload. The P wave corresponds to the atrial depolarization and its amplitude corresponds to the electrical activity in the right atrium. Thus, it is possible to relate the increase in P amplitude and heart rate to the hypoxia caused by exercise in brachycephalic, since this hypoxia results in chemoreceptor activation that increases chronotropism and heart rate. Also, there may be increased pressure in the pulmonary trunk, this increased pressure occurs due to vasoconstriction generated as a reflex to hypoxia in the pulmonary alveoli, leading to a possible picture of acute pulmonary hypertension that, in a cascade effect, leads to hypertrophy and dilation of the right ventricle, increased strength of contractility and ejection affecting the tricuspid valve causing a reflux and consequent overload of the right atrium.

Effect of lunging exercise program with Pessoa training aid on cardiac physical conditioning predictors in adult horses / Efeito de um programa de exercício utilizando Rédea Pessoa sobre preditores de condicionamento físico em cavalos adultos

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect the Pessoa training aid (PTA) exercise program exerts in some physical conditioning predictors. Eight detrained adult horses were evaluated in 12 sessions of work with PTA (3 sessions per week). All horses used a heart rate monitor and GPS (V800, Polar Electro) and data was used to calculate energy expenditure (EE), net cost of transport (COT), metabolic energy requirement (Pmet), oxygen pulse, oxygen utilization, heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV). The horses were weighted, and the thoracolumbar shape were measured at the level of the 18th (T18), 13th (T13) and 8th (T8) thoracic vertebrae with a flexible ruler before and after the experimental period. Data obtained weekly were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey test (p≤0.05). Data obtained just before and after the experimental period were submitted to paired t test. There was a decrease in left-right asymmetry. In the third week there was an increase in HR, EE, oxygen pulse and oxygen utilization followed by a decrease in the fourth week. The biomechanics related parameters, COT and Pmet decreased week by week. The HRV showed a sympathetic stimulus in the third week followed by a shift to parasympathetic in the fourth week. We conclude that 12 sessions of lunge exercise with PTA contributed to physical condition improvement.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito que um programa de exercício com Rédea Pessoa exerce sobre algumas variáveis de condicionamento físico. Oito cavalos adultos destreinados foram avaliados em 12 sessões de exercício de chão com Rédea Pessoa. Todos os cavalos trabalharam com frequencímetro cardíaco e GPS para a obtenção das frequências cardíacas (HR) e variabilidade de frequência cardíaca (HRV) e cálculos de gasto energético (EE), custo de transporte metabólico (COT), requerimento de energia metabólica (Pmet), pulso de oxigênio e utilização de oxigênio. Também foram avaliadas medidas na altura das vértebras torácicas T18, T13 e T8 com régua flexível antes e depois do experimento quando os animais foram pesados. Os dados obtidos semanalmente foram analisados por ANOVA e Tukey teste (p≤0.05). Os dados obtidos somente antes e após o período experimental foram analisados pelo teste t pareado. Houve diminuição da assimetria entre os lados direito e esquerdo. Na terceira semana houve aumento da FC, EE, pulso de oxigênio e utilização de oxigênio seguido de diminuição na quarta semana. Os parâmetros relacionados à biomecânica, COT e Pmet diminuíram semana a semana. A VFC apresentou estímulo simpático na terceira semana seguido de desvio para parassimpático na quarta semana. Concluiu-se que 12 sessões de exercício com a Rédea Pessoa contribuíram para melhora do condicionamento físico.

Hematological parameters in endurance horses pre and post 120 km race / Parâmetros hematológicos em cavalos de enduro pré e pós prova de 120 km

The endurance discipline has the shortest history in Bulgaria compared with other disciplines of equestrian sports. Endurance competitions are held over distances from 40 km to 160 km. The present study focused on the effect of exercise on horses over a distance of 120 km. Changes in the following hematological parameters were investigated:Leukocytes (WBC, g/l); Erythrocytes (RBC, T/l); Platelets (PLT, g/l); Hemoglobin (Hb, g/l); Hematocrit (HCT,%); Mean corpuscular volume(MCV, fl); Mean corpuscular hemoglobin(MCH, pg); Mean cell hemoglobin concentration(MCHC, g/l), Leukogram (Eos; Bas; Neu; Lym; Mon,%) as well as some electrolytes and hormone concentration. The study aimed to establish the changes in these indicators' values before and after the competition. Analysis of the haemogram showed a significant increase in the mean values of 4 of the indicators under study. No significant differences were established in MCV, MCH and MCHC. A decrease was found in the number of Lym, Eos, and Mon and a significant increase in Neu after the competition. The concentration of electrolytes (Ca, Na and K) in the blood serum decreased, and the levels of CK and LDH significantly increased.(AU)

A disciplina de resistência tem a história maiscurta na Bulgária em comparação com outras disciplinas de esportes equestres. As competições de resistência são realizadas em distâncias de 40 km a 160 km. O presente estudo focou no efeito do exercício em cavalos em uma distância de 120 km. Foram investigadas alterações nos seguintes parâmetros hematológicos: Leucócitos (g/l); Eritrócitos (T/l); Plaquetas (g/l); Hemoglobina (g/l); Hematócrito (%); Volume corpuscular médio (VCM, fl); Hemoglobina corpuscular média (HCM, pg); Concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média(CHCM, g/l), Leucograma (Eos; Bas; Neu; Lin; Mon,%), bem como alguns eletrólitos e concentração hormonal. O estudo teve como objetivo estabelecer as mudanças nos valores desses indicadores antes e depois da competição. A análise do hemograma mostrou um aumento significativo nos valores médios de 4 dos indicadores estudados. Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas no VMC, HCM e CHCM. Foi encontrada uma diminuição no número de Lin, Eos e Mon e um aumento significativo em Neu após a competição. A concentração de eletrólitos (Ca, Na e K) no soro sanguíneo diminuiu e os níveis de Creatina Quinase (CK) e Lactato Desidrogenase (LDH) aumentaram significativamente.(AU)

Cardiovascular indicators and mitral valve disease in dogs with spontaneous hypercortisolism - prospective evaluation

Background: Canine hypercortisolism (HC) is the most prevalent endocrinopathy in dogs in southern Brazil. The prognosis depends on several factors including the general health status, owners´ commitment, and the development of disease complications and comorbidities occurrence, such as cardiovascular complications including mitral valve disease (MVD), systemic arterial hypertension, and left ventricular hypertrophy. The main objective of the present study was to assess cardiovascular parameters in canine HC, based on investigating survival-related variables. The study also aimed to evaluate the influence of concurrent preclinical (MVD) on dogs` survival and the impact of HC on MVD progression. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 25 dogs with spontaneous HC were enrolled and divided into 2 subgroups accordingly to their echocardiographic findings: group HC (normal echocardiography at first evaluation, n = 16); and group HC + MVD (concurrent presence of stages B1 and B2 MVD diagnosed at the first evaluation, n = 9). The patients were evaluated at diagnosis (T0); 6 months after treatment begging (T1); and after 12 months of treatment (T2). The owners were further contacted by phone or e-mail for 1 more year after T2 regarding survival information. A control group (CG, n = 20) was also evaluated at T0 and T1. At each evaluation, dogs were submitted to a complete clinical evaluation and physical exam, associated with a minimum database (CBC, serum biochemistry, and urine analysis) and cardiovascular evaluation composed of systolic blood pressure determination, electrocardiogram (ECG), and echodopplercardiography. In the HC group, 11/16 dogs underwent the evaluation at T2, while 4/9 dogs from the HC + MVD group and 17/20 dogs from the CG underwent the evaluation at T2. Five dogs (31.25%) from the HC group and 4 dogs (44.44%) from the HC + MVD group died before the end of the follow-up period. In the control group, only 1 dog (5.26%) died before the end of the study. Despite the higher mortality in the HC + MVD group during the follow-up period, there was no significant difference (P = 0.632) in survival when compared with the HC group. The MVD of 4 dogs included in the HC + MVD group was classified as stage B1, while the other 5 dogs were classified as stage B2. Only 1 dog from the CG developed stage B1 MVD in the period studied; however, progression of the MVD stage was documented in 1/4 of dogs in the HC + MVD group and MVD development was documented in 3/11 of dogs from the HC group from T0 to T2. The odds ratio (OR) and respective 95% confidence interval (95%CI) for HC as a risk factor for MVD progression were 4.267 (0.4268 - 42.65; P = 0.342). Exercise intolerance (12/16 dogs) and dyspnea (6/16 dogs) were the cardiorespiratory clinical signs with the highest incidence in the HC group at T0. When compared to the control group, both exercise intolerance (P < 0.001) and dyspnea (P = 0.03) occurrence were significantly higher in the HC group. The age (P = 0.001) and the occurrence of dyspnea (P = 0.036) at diagnosis were significantly higher in dogs with HC that died during the follow-up than those that remained alive. Regarding the occurrence of cardiac arrhythmias verified by ECG, no statistically significant differences were observed among groups. Discussion: The study suggests that systemic hypertension and altered echocardiographic measurements did not interfere with dogs' survival; however, dyspnea was associated with a worse prognosis. Finally, it is possible to conclude that mitral valve degeneration is a common comorbidity in dogs with HC, however, it was not evidenced their interference in the survival of dogs with this endocrine disease or even a role of the HC in the progression of the MVD.

Assessment of stress and anxiety in mice with colorectal cancer submitted to physical exercise

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of physical exercise on the behavior of rodents with colorectal cancer induced through the use of elevated plus maze. Methods: We used 40 male hairless mice induced to colorectal cancer, divided into five groups: G1) submitted to pre- and post-induction swimming; G2) pre- and post-induction ladder; G3) post-induction swimming; G4) post-induction ladder; G5) sedentary. At the end of the 14th week, the animals were submitted to the plus maze test. Results: The mean length of stay in the open arm for G1 was 4.17 ± 6.50; G2 37.52 ± 40.7; G3 85.84 ± 42.5; G4 32.92 ± 23.17; and G5 4.09 ± 4.43. In the closed arm, it was 264 ± 23.43 in G1, 187.60 ± 47.73 in G2, 147.50 ± 40.03 in G3, 182.00 ± 40.40 in G4, and in G5 235.36 ± 14.28. In the center, G1 remained 31.86 ± 20.18, G2 74.85 ± 28.37, G3 66.69 ± 19.53, G4 60.55 ± 10.46, and G5 60.55 ± 23.65. Conclusions: Aerobic exercise for seven weeks after tumor induction showed less impact on the behavior of the animals. On the other hand, it significantly increased the animals' stress level when applied for 14 weeks before and after tumor induction. Key words

Relationship between vitamin D and physical activity: systematic review and meta-analysis / Relação entre vitamina D e atividade física: revisão sistemática e meta análise

Vitamin D plays an important role in immune function and inflammation and the physical activity demonstrate relationship near to syntheses of vitamin D, considering to necessary to factors immunologics, environmental and physical. We searched five databases through February 20, 2021. Two reviewers screened the studies, collected data, assessed the risk of bias, and ranked the evidence for each outcome across the studies, independently and in duplicate. The prespecified endpoints of interest were Cardiorespiratory Fitness; Sunlight Exposure; Body Mass Index (BMI). We only included data from peer-reviewed articles in our primary analyses. In our primary analysis, there was a positive trend between serum 25(OH)D <20 ng/ml and body mass index, this result should be interpreted with caution, considering confidence intervals (RR 1.10 95% CI 0.37 to 1.83. We identified 4 high quality evidence that vitamin D levels and high physical activity required a direct relationship considering (four trials with 2,253) ; RR 0. (RR 0.0; 95% CI -0.15 to 0.15) (RR 0.59; 95% CI 0.43 to 0.75. Although the evidence available so far, from observational studies of medium quality, can be seen as showing a trend towards an association between sufficient serum levels of 25(OH)D and physical activity, this relationship has been shown. have a stimulating effect on vitamin D synthesis, the relationship of low body mass index with sufficient vitamin D levels is not based on solid evidence. We await results from ongoing studies to determine this effectiveness.

A vitamina D desempenha um papel importante na função imunológica e na inflamação e a atividade física demonstra relação próxima à síntese de vitamina D, sendo necessária a fatores imunológicos, ambientais e físicos. Pesquisamos cinco bancos de dados até 20 de fevereiro de 2021. Dois revisores examinaram os estudos, coletaram dados, avaliaram o risco de viés e classificaram as evidências para cada resultado nos estudos, de forma independente e em duplicata. Os endpoints de interesse pré-especificados foram aptidão cardiorrespiratória; Exposição à luz solar; Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC). Incluímos apenas dados de artigos revisados ​​por pares em nossas análises primárias. Em nossa análise primária, houve uma tendência positiva entre 25(OH)D sérico <20 ng/ml e índice de massa corporal., esse resultado deve ser interpretado com cautela, considerando os intervalos de confiança (RR 1,10 IC 95% 0,37 a 1,83. Identificamos 4 evidências de alta qualidade de que níveis de vitamina D e atividade física alta exigiam uma relação direta considerando (quatro ensaios com 2.253) ; RR 0 . (RR 0,0; IC 95% -0,15 a 0,15) (RR 0,59; IC 95% 0,43 a 0,75. Embora as evidências disponíveis até agora, de estudos observacionais de qualidade média, possam ser vistas como uma tendência de associação entre níveis séricos suficientes de 25(OH)D e atividade física, essa relação foi demonstrada. têm um efeito estimulante na síntese de vitamina D, a relação de baixo índice de massa corporal com níveis suficientes de vitamina D não é baseada em evidências sólidas. Aguardamos resultados de estudos em andamento para determinar essa eficácia.

Physiological effects of land and water treadmill exercise in dogs / Efeitos do exercício em esteira terrestre ou aquática sobre os parâmetros fisiológicos de cães

The application of hydrotherapy is growing in the field of animal rehabilitation to improve strength, endurance, fitness, and range of motion, in addition to reducing pain. In the same way, land-based activity is recommended for various conditions, including hypertension, muscle atrophy, and obesity. There is a lack of studies that evaluate the safety of incremental exercise in American Pit Bull Terriers. This study assessed the influence of activity on underwater and dry land treadmills on the physiological parameters of dogs. In this regard, 12 adult, male, healthy, and untrained American Pit Bull Terriers were subjected to an incremental exercise test (IET) on the underwater treadmill (Group I) and the dry land treadmill (Group II). Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), rectal temperature (RT), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and electrocardiographic evaluation, were evaluated before activity (T0), immediately after (T1), 30 min after (T2), and 90 min after the end of exercise (T3), and plasmatic lactate concentrations were measured at T0, T1, and T2 time points. Results obtained were submitted to the Shapiro-Wilk test, ANOVA and Tukey's test, considering P<0.05. Water activity induced a reduction in RR (P=0.00674) in all examinations after the test on the underwater treadmill and proved to be more demanding than activity on the land treadmill, considering the presence of a deeper and slower RR. Exercise sessions in both groups did not elevate the lactate concentration. The IET can be performed safely on an underwater or dry land treadmill in healthy American Pit Bulls.

A hidroterapia apresenta crescente aplicação no ramo da reabilitação animal, com o intuito de aumentar a força, resistência muscular e amplitude de movimento articular, além de reduzir a dor e melhorar o condicionamento físico do paciente. Assim como a hidroterapia, a atividade desenvolvida em solo é indicada para diversas afecções, inclusive para pacientes hipertensos, com atrofia muscular ou com sobrepeso. São escassos os estudos que avaliam a segurança de testes incrementais em esteira aquática e em esteira seca em American Pit Bull Terriers. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos da atividade em esteira aquática e em esteira seca sobre os parâmetros fisiológicos de cães. Para isto, cães da raça American Pit Bull Terrier (n=12) machos, adultos, saudáveis e não treinados foram submetidos a teste de esforço incremental (TEI) em hidroesteira com água (Grupo I) e sem água (Grupo II). A frequência cardíaca (FR), frequência respiratória (FR), temperatura retal (TR), pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) e avaliação eletrocardiográfica, foram aferidas antes da atividade (T0), imediatamente após (T1), 30 minutos após (T2) e 90 minutos após o exercício (T3), e a concentração plasmática de lactato foi dosada nos momentos T0, T1 e T2. Os resultados foram submetidos ao teste de Shapiro-Wilk, análise de variância (ANOVA) e pelo Teste de Tukey, considerando significativo o valor de P < 0.05. Houve diminuição da frequência respiratória (P = 0,00674) após a atividade em esteira aquática, que se mostrou mais exigente que a atividade em esteira terrestre, considerando a apresentação de padrão respiratório mais lento e profundo. As sessões de exercício em ambos os grupos não elevaram a concentração de lactato. O teste de esforço incremental em esteira aquática, ou em esteira seca, pode ser desenvolvido com segurança por cães American Pit Bull saudáveis.

Use of aerobic treadmill exercises on nerve regeneration after sciatic nerve injury in spontaneously hypertensive rats

Purpose: Various postoperative protocols have been proposed to improve outcomes and accelerate nerve regeneration. Recently, the use of physical exercise in a post-surgical neurorraphy procedure has shown good results when started early. We experimentally investigated the hypothesis that post-operative exercise speeds up results and improves clinical and morphologic parameters. Methods: Isogenic rats were randomly divided into four groups: 1 SHAM; 2 SHAM submitted to the exercise protocol (EP); 3 Grafting of the sciatic nerve; and 4 Grafting of the sciatic nerve associated with the EP. The EP was based on aerobic activities with a treadmill, with a progressive increase in time and intensity during 6 weeks. The results were evaluated by the sciatic functional index (SFI), morphometric and morphologic analysis of nerve distal to the lesion, and the number of spinal cord motor neurons, positive to the marker Fluoro-Gold (FG), captured retrogradely through neurorraphy. Results: Functional analysis (SFI) did not show a statistical difference between the group grafted with (­50.94) and without exercise (-65.79) after 90 days. The motoneurons count (Spinal cord histology) also showed no diference between these groups (834.5 × 833 respectively). Although functionally there is no difference between these groups, morphometric study showed a greater density (53.62) and larger fibers (7.762) in GRAFT group. When comparing both operated groups with both SHAM groups, all values were much lower. Conclusions: The experimental model that this aerobic treadmill exercises protocol did not modify nerve regeneration after sciatic nerve injury and repair with nerve graft.

Effect of one-time high load exercise on skeletal muscle injury in rats of different genders: oxidative stress and mitochondrial responses

Purpose: To evaluate the impact of one-time high load exercise on skeletal muscle injury and analysis its mechanism in different genders. Methods: Twenty-four male and 24 female rats were divided randomly into four groups respectively: control, 0 h, 6 h, and 24 h after exercise. The activities of creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and myohemoglobin (MYO) in serum, the expression level of oxidative stress markers, mitochondrial respiratory chain complex enzyme, and the apoptosis related protein in quadriceps were detected. Results: The results showed that the activities of CK, LDH and MYO in serum increased immediately after exercise and restored faster in female rats. More obvious structural disorder and apoptosis in male rats were showed. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were increased while catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) were decreased in male rats. SOD, CAT and GSH were increased in female rats. Mitochondrial complex enzyme activity was decreased in males and increased in females. Conclusions: The skeletal muscle injury in both genders of rat could be induced by one-time high load exercise due to the mitochondrial respiratory enzyme dysfunction and oxidative stress, which was relatively mild and recovered quicker in female rats.

Fratura exposta do fêmur em preguiça-real (Choloepus didactylus) - tratamento e reabilitação / Open fracture of the femur in a two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus) - treatment and rehabilitation

Background: The Choloepus didactylus is characterized by having 2 fingers on the forelimbs and 3 on the hind limbs, being found more frequently in northern South America, in countries such as Venezuela, Guyana, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil. In Brazil, deforestation of the Amazon rainforest has threatened the survival of C. didactylus. In addition, these animals can be affected by several diseases, being those of the musculoskeletal system with limited reports. Thus, the present report aimed to describe the treatment and evolution of an open fracture of the femur in a free-living Choloepus didactylus, which after rehabilitation was released back to the wild. Case: A free-living female two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus), weighing 7.0 kg, was found in Manaus city and referred to the Wild Animal Treatment Center (CETAS - IBAMA-AM) located in Amazonas, Brazil, after initial treatment and osteosynthesis in a private clinic (CVMinasPet). According to history, the animal had suffered electrocution 30 days ago and, as a result, had an extensive wound that resulted in the exposure of the knee joint, distal fracture of the femur, and areas of necrosis in the right pelvic limb. After cleansing of the area and removal of necrotic tissues, the fracture was stabilized with the cross-pinning technique (2 Steinmann pins). Then, the stifle joint was stabilized with external skeletal fixation (Type 1b, unilateral biplanar). The external fixator and cross-pins were removed 2 months after the surgical procedure, being observed bone healing. Next, the animal underwent physical rehabilitation for 30 days. After the rehabilitation period, a microchip and a radio collar were applied, and the sloth was released back to the wild. Discussion: Electrocution has been one of the causes of wildlife rescue, with consequences varying depending on the degree of the burn. Generally, the burn is most severe at the entry and exit sites. Since suspensory quadrupedal locomotion requires that sloths have specialized hands and feet to connect with the supports, probably the animal of the current report touched the right pelvic limb on a high-tension pole. The cross-pinning technique combined with the external fixator was used because the animal had an exposed Salter-Harris type I fracture with soft tissue loss. The younger the animal presents physeal fractures, the greater is the chance of developing growth abnormalities due to growth plate closure caused by fracture type or immobilization method. Since the sloth was a free-living animal, the age was unknown. However, pelvic limb length discrepancy was not observed after removing the implants. Culture and antimicrobial susceptibility test were not done and may be considered a limitation of this report. However, the application of ceftriaxone was adequate to control the infection, since the animal did not show signs of infection or draining sinus tracts. Ceftriaxone is a third-generation antibiotic that can be used in chronic osteomyelitis. In addition, the animal in the present report showed good adaptation to captive conditions that contributed to the clinical management. The longevity of the sloth in captivity can reach more than 30 years, but the goal is always to return the animal to nature after the treatment. Surgical treatment of the fracture and physical therapy after implant removal allowed this action in the current report, confirmed by monitoring with the radio collar.

Assessment of a vaquejada horse training protocol based on laboratory clinical parameters

The objective of this study was to assess a training protocol employed in the Brazilian Northeast region for fitness conditioning of vaquejada horses. For 12 months, 24 Quarter Horses were evaluated under a completely randomized split-plot experimental design in which the plots comprised three age groups: horses at two, three, and four years of age. The split plots were made up of six fitness tests carried out every other month. The fitness test protocol consisted of five levels of protocol exercises on a standard vaquejada track. Prior to the tests with fasted animals, we collected blood samples to determine muscle enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase). During the tests, heart rate, speed, and distance run were recorded using a heart rate monitor. Next, the results were used to calculate speed at which each horse reached 150 bpm (V150), speed at which each horse reached 200 bpm (V200), maximum heart rate (HRmax), maximum speed (Vmax), recovery time needed for the heart rate of horses to return to half the maximum value reached during the fitness tests (HR50%), and recovery time needed for the heart rate of horses to return to baseline values (HRbasal). No difference was found among the age groups for V150, HRmax, Vmax, HR50%, HRbasal, or muscle enzymes. By the final stage of training, the V200 of the three-year-old horses was higher than that of the four-year-old foals. During training, all groups exhibited increases in serum concentrations of muscle enzymes and reductions in efficiency to recover heart rate after exercise. The training protocol assessed is unable to maintain proper fitness for competitions throughout the year.(AU)

Pneumotórax secundário a bolha pulmonar em cão / Pneumothorax secondary to a pulmonary bullae in a dog

Background: Pulmonary bullae are thin-walled cavitary lesions within the subpleural parenchyma. They are a result of thedestruction, dilatation and coalescence of bordering alveoli and their rupture is the most common cause of pneumothoraxin dogs. Radiographic and CT imaging are excellent tools for identifying and quantifying pneumothorax. Surgical treatment is considered standard for treatment of pneumothorax consequential to pulmonary bullae. The aim of this report wasto describe a case of pneumothorax secondary to pulmonary bullae in a dog.Case: A 5-year-old male crossbreed dog, weighing 11.5 kg, was presented to the Uberaba’s Veterinary Hospital due to becoming easily tired in the previous 3 weeks, and its worsening in the last 2 days by presenting panting. The dog’s guardiandid not witness any traumas, but informed that the animal resided with other 14 dogs and also that it frequently collidedthe thorax against the door when it came down from the bed. Physical examination showed diaphragmatic breathing,inspiratory dyspnea and stridor lung sound. Thoracocentesis revealed presence of air in the pleural cavity and pneumothorax. Radiographic images confirmed this condition. The dog stayed in the hospital and chest drains were placed. Sincethe amount of sucked air did not reduce with time and due to the emergence of subcutaneous emphysema, the dog wentthrough exploratory thoracotomy that revealed impairment of the right caudal lung lobe, proceeding to lobectomy. Thedog stayed in the hospital with chest drains until the contents of the suctions reduced significantly. With the removal ofthe drains, the dog was sent home and had a full recovery. Histopathology of the impaired lung revealed pulmonary bullae.Discussion: The dog from this report presented clinical signs consistent with pneumothorax, such as dyspnea, diaphragmaticbreathing and exercise intolerance. Radiography of the chest region revealed...

Exercícios físicos como incremento na qualidade de vida de cães idosos / Physical exercises as an increase in the quality of life of elderly dogs

A prática regular de exercícios físicos é uma estratégia preventiva, atrativa e eficaz, para manter e melhorar o estado de saúde física e psíquica em qualquer idade, tendo efeitos benéficos diretos e indiretos para prevenir e retardar as perdas funcionais do envelhecimento, reduzindo o risco de enfermidades e transtornos frequentes em idosos. Nos últimos anos, o interesse na saúde geriátrica de cães e gatos aumentou significativamente devido à crescente longevidade desses animais provocada pelos avanços na medicina veterinária como incremento das especialidades médico-veterinárias, desenvolvimento de novas tecnologias nas indústrias farmacêuticas e oferta de alimentos para animais. Todos estes avanços são estimulados pela alta demanda de tutores interessados no bem-estar animal e em proporcionar maior qualidade de vida. No caso dos animais idosos, entende-se como qualidade de vida manutenção da mobilidade, controle de dor, continência urinária e fecal, apetite e interação com humanos. A realização de exercícios físicos por pacientes geriátricos envolve melhor controle da dor, preservar a mobilidade e deambulação postergando o avanço do envelhecimento e proporcionando maior qualidade de vida. Este artigo tem como objetivo fazer uma revisão da literatura abordando a compreensão atual das práticas de exercícios físicos na qualidade de vida de cães idosos, em paralelo à prática de exercícios físicos em idosos.

The regular practice of physical exercises is a preventive, attractive and effective strategy, to maintain and improve the state of physical and mental health at any age, having direct and indirect beneficial effects to prevent and delay the functional losses of aging, reducing the risk of diseases and frequent disorders in the elderly. In recent years, interest in the geriatric health of dogs and cats has increased significantly due to the increasing longevity of these animals caused by advances in veterinary medicine such as the increase in veterinary specialties, development of new technologies in industries pharmaceutical and animal feed. All these advances are stimulated by the high demand of guardians interested in animal welfare and in providing a better quality of life. In the case of elderly animals, quality of life is understood as maintenance of mobility, pain control, urinary and fecal continence, appetite, and interaction with humans. The performance of physical exercises by geriatric patients involves better pain control, preserving mobility and walking, delaying the advancement of aging and providing a better quality of life. This paper aims to make a literature review addressing the current understanding of exercise practices in the quality of life of elderly dogs.

Descriptive electromyography signals analysis of equine longissimus dorsi, rectus abdominis and gluteus medius muscles during maneuvers used to activate the core / [Análise descritiva do sinal eletromiográfico dos músculos longuíssimo dorsal, reto abdominal e glúteo médio de equinos durante a realização de manobras utilizadas para ativação do core]

Maneuvers to activate the equine's core can make a difference in their physical and psychic health. Although these activities are recommended and practiced, there is little research proving their effectiveness. This article aims to describe, through surface electromyography, the occurrences, durations and sequences activity of longissimus dorsi, rectus abdominis and gluteus medius during thoracolumbar flexion (TLF), lumbar and lumbosacral flexion (LLSF), global flexion (GF), which is the combination of TLF and LLSF, and tail traction (TT). Seven healthy adult horses of three different breeds performed five repetitions of these movements for five seconds (sec). Electromyographic activity was captured with non-invasive superficial sensors positioned in the skin regions covering these muscles. The sequence was performed once per animal, muscle activity captured by surface electromyography, data from two replicates of each animal were selected, analyzed on matLab software and data tabulation were described during each maneuver. These maneuvers provoked punctual and transient activation of muscles mentioned above, confirming the ability to activate equine core muscles. However, responses were not standardized, which means there were variations of occurrence, duration and sequence, suggesting that for practical application of those maneuvers it is necessary to perform more repetitions with longer durations to activate more muscles.(AU)

Manobras para ativação da musculatura do core equino podem ser diferenciais para saúde física e psíquica dos animais, sendo recomendadas e praticadas, mas existem poucas pesquisas comprovando a eficácia delas. Este artigo tem como objetivo descrever, por meio da eletromiografia de superfície, as ocorrências, as durações e as sequências temporais da atividade muscular do longuíssimo dorsal, do reto abdominal e do glúteo médio durante a realização das manobras de flexão toracolombar, flexão lombar e lombossacra, flexão global (toracolombar e lombossacra) e tração de cauda. Para isso, sete equinos adultos e hígidos de três raças realizaram esses quatro movimentos clássicos para ativar o core equino, com cinco repetições e manutenção do estímulo reflexivo por cinco segundos. Durante a realização, a atividade eletromiográfica foi capturada com a utilização de sensores superficiais posicionados de forma não invasiva em regiões cutâneas referentes a cada músculo. O protocolo completo de manobras foi realizado uma vez por cada animal enquanto a atividade muscular era capturada. Posteriormente, duas repetições de cada animal foram triadas e submetidas ao software matLab para análise. Com base na tabulação dos dados, foram descritas as variáveis eletromiográficas de presença ou ausência de ativação muscular, a duração média dos picos eletromiográficos superiores ao RMS (root mean square) e a sequência da atividade muscular observada durante cada manobra. Essas manobras provocaram ativações pontuais e transitórias nos três músculos, o que confirma a capacidade de excitar músculos do core equino. Contudo, as respostas não foram padronizadas, sugerindo que, na prática dessa atividade, devem-se realizar mais repetições com durações superiores a cinco segundos, a fim de se buscarem maiores ativações.(AU)

Investigation of stress in primates maintained in zoo and its main implications on behavior and well-being

Brazil is considered the country which holds the largest number of known primate species. At captives without environmental enrichment program, especially in zoos, it is common for the animals to be easily discouraged from captive life, being bound to develop chronic stress condition. This review aimed to provide veterinary professionals and students with updated bibliography on stress in zoo captive primates, focusing on reactions resulting from these changes, as well as their implications for behavior and well-being. Integrative literature review using descriptors "Captivity", "Stress", "Primates", "Zoos" and "Wellbeing", on the main scientific research bases. The present work highlighted stress responses and its consequences on primate’s health and behavior captive in zoo through bibliographic survey, performing selected articles analysis, results interpretation, and discussion. It is concluded behavioral profile individual variations expose primates differently to stressful conditions. Public visitation, lack of structure, reduced enclosure, improper nutritional management, and unstimulated environment may be potential stress sources for some housed primates in zoo.

Investigation of stress in primates maintained in zoo and its main implications on behavior and well-being

Brazil is considered the country which holds the largest number of known primate species. At captives without environmental enrichment program, especially in zoos, it is common for the animals to be easily discouraged from captive life, being bound to develop chronic stress condition. This review aimed to provide veterinary professionals and students with updated bibliography on stress in zoo captive primates, focusing on reactions resulting from these changes, as well as their implications for behavior and well-being. Integrative literature review using descriptors "Captivity", "Stress", "Primates", "Zoos" and "Wellbeing", on the main scientific research bases. The present work highlighted stress responses and its consequences on primates health and behavior captive in zoo through bibliographic survey, performing selected articles analysis, results interpretation, and discussion. It is concluded behavioral profile individual variations expose primates differently to stressful conditions. Public visitation, lack of structure, reduced enclosure, improper nutritional management, and unstimulated environment may be potential stress sources for some housed primates in zoo.(AU)

Yield potential of hybrid castor bean plants in different plant densities in the off season in a stressful environment / Potencial produtivo de híbridos de mamona em diferentes densidades de plantas na segunda safra em ambiente estressante

A mamona (Ricinus communis L.) tem proporcionado relevância no plano agroindustrial do país pela qualidade do óleo produzido. A obtenção de híbridos adaptados às condições de cultivo em segunda safra e com características apropriadas ao cultivo mecanizado é visado através do melhoramento. Assim sendo, o trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar híbridos precoces de mamona em função de populações de plantas cultivados na região da Nova Alta Paulista em segunda safra. Adotou-se o delineamento experimental em blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 3x4, sendo três híbridos de mamona (AGIMA 110204, MIA e TAMAR) e quatro densidades de plantas por metro linear (2, 4, 6 e 8), com quatro repetições por tratamento. No dia 12 de abril de 2017 aconteceu a semeadura na fazenda de pesquisa da UNESP/FCAT – Campus de Dracena. As avaliações de desenvolvimento de plantas e características reprodutivas foram realizadas aos 138 dias após a emergência das plantas (DAE). Altura de plantas, números de racemos por planta, massa de cem grãos e leitura SPAD de clorofila nos tratamentos testados tiveram médias semelhantes. O híbrido TAMAR apresentou a maior altura de inserção do primeiro racemo, e junto com o hibrido MIA tiveram os maiores racemos produzidos. O diâmetro do caule de todos os híbridos apresentou redução linear em função do aumento da população de plantas na linha de semeadura. A produtividade de grãos dos híbridos foi de 1.784 kg ha-1 (TAMAR), 1.659 kg ha-1(AGIMA 110204) e 1.547 kg ha-1 (MIA).

The relevance of the castor bean plant in Brazil's agribusiness plan lies in the quality of the oil it produces. That is why, to improve its quality, there is interest in obtaining hybrid plants adapted to off-season growing conditions and with the appropriate characteristics for mechanized cultivation. This study was conducted to examine the premature growth of hybrid castor bean plants as a function of plant populations cultivated in the off season in the Nova Alta Paulista region of the state of São Paulo. A randomized complete block design with a 3x4 factorial arrangement, three hybrid castor bean plants (AGIMA 110204, MIA, and TAMAR) and four individuals per linear meter (2, 4, 6, and 8), was adopted, and four replications wereperformed for each treatment. The seeds were sown on April 12, 2017, at the UNESP/FCAT research farm in Dracena, São Paulo. Assessments on plant development and reproductive traits were made 138 days after emergence (DAE). The plants’ height, number of racemes per plant, 100-grain weight, and SPAD chlorophyll reading in the treatments resulted in similar averages. The TAMAR hybrid presented the highest insertion point for the primary raceme and, along with the MIA hybrid, produced the largest racemes. The stem diameter of all the hybrids presented a linear decrease as the plant population increased along the line the seeds were sown. The grain yields of the hybrids were 1,784 kg ha-1(TAMAR), 1,659 kg ha-1 (AGIMA 110204), and 1,547 kg ha-1 (MIA).

Yield potential of hybrid castor bean plants in different plant densities in the off season in a stressful environment / Potencial produtivo de híbridos de mamona em diferentes densidades de plantas na segunda safra em ambiente estressante

A mamona (Ricinus communis L.) tem proporcionado relevância no plano agroindustrial do país pela qualidade do óleo produzido. A obtenção de híbridos adaptados às condições de cultivo em segunda safra e com características apropriadas ao cultivo mecanizado é visado através do melhoramento. Assim sendo, o trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar híbridos precoces de mamona em função de populações de plantas cultivados na região da Nova Alta Paulista em segunda safra. Adotou-se o delineamento experimental em blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 3x4, sendo três híbridos de mamona (AGIMA 110204, MIA e TAMAR) e quatro densidades de plantas por metro linear (2, 4, 6 e 8), com quatro repetições por tratamento. No dia 12 de abril de 2017 aconteceu a semeadura na fazenda de pesquisa da UNESP/FCAT Campus de Dracena. As avaliações de desenvolvimento de plantas e características reprodutivas foram realizadas aos 138 dias após a emergência das plantas (DAE). Altura de plantas, números de racemos por planta, massa de cem grãos e leitura SPAD de clorofila nos tratamentos testados tiveram médias semelhantes. O híbrido TAMAR apresentou a maior altura de inserção do primeiro racemo, e junto com o hibrido MIA tiveram os maiores racemos produzidos. O diâmetro do caule de todos os híbridos apresentou redução linear em função do aumento da população de plantas na linha de semeadura. A produtividade de grãos dos híbridos foi de 1.784 kg ha-1 (TAMAR), 1.659 kg ha-1(AGIMA 110204) e 1.547 kg ha-1 (MIA).(AU)

The relevance of the castor bean plant in Brazil's agribusiness plan lies in the quality of the oil it produces. That is why, to improve its quality, there is interest in obtaining hybrid plants adapted to off-season growing conditions and with the appropriate characteristics for mechanized cultivation. This study was conducted to examine the premature growth of hybrid castor bean plants as a function of plant populations cultivated in the off season in the Nova Alta Paulista region of the state of São Paulo. A randomized complete block design with a 3x4 factorial arrangement, three hybrid castor bean plants (AGIMA 110204, MIA, and TAMAR) and four individuals per linear meter (2, 4, 6, and 8), was adopted, and four replications wereperformed for each treatment. The seeds were sown on April 12, 2017, at the UNESP/FCAT research farm in Dracena, São Paulo. Assessments on plant development and reproductive traits were made 138 days after emergence (DAE). The plants height, number of racemes per plant, 100-grain weight, and SPAD chlorophyll reading in the treatments resulted in similar averages. The TAMAR hybrid presented the highest insertion point for the primary raceme and, along with the MIA hybrid, produced the largest racemes. The stem diameter of all the hybrids presented a linear decrease as the plant population increased along the line the seeds were sown. The grain yields of the hybrids were 1,784 kg ha-1(TAMAR), 1,659 kg ha-1 (AGIMA 110204), and 1,547 kg ha-1 (MIA).(AU)

Use of external nasal strip influences alveolar cell population of horses after exercise / Uso de fita nasal influencia a população de células alveolares em equinos após exercício

The nasal strip is widely used in horses during exercise, but effects of using a nasal strip are controversial and little is known about its effect on horses undergoing endurance events. The aim of this study was to determine whether the use of nasal strips influences alveolar cell population assessed by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), tidal volume, and nasal airflow rate. Six Arabian horses were subjected to two low intensity tests on a treadmill, with and without application of a commercial external nasal strip. Tidal volumes and airflow rates were measured during the test; two hours after the test, BAL was performed to assess cytology of pulmonary secretions. The lavage fluid showed increased neutrophil count after exercise in animals with the nasal strip (P<0.05). This suggests that turbulence of airflow through the nasal cavity may have diminished with nasal strip use, thus allowing larger particles to be deposited more distally in the respiratory system, inducing a more intense neutrophilic response. No differences in tidal volumes or airflow rates were observed between groups (with or without nasal strips) during the test (P>0.05). The use of nasal strips seems to influence alveolar cell population during and after exercise in horses after low intensity exercise tests. Further studies are needed to verify whether alveolar cell population is related to poor exercise performance in horses.(AU)

A fita nasal é amplamente utilizada em equinos durante o exercício, porém seus resultados são controversos e pouco conhecidos em animais que disputam provas de resistência. O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar se o uso da fita nasal influencia a população de células alveolares por meio de lavado broncoalveolar, volume corrente e fluxo de ar nasal. Foram utilizados seis equinos da raça Árabe, que realizaram dois testes de longa duração em esteira, sendo um teste com a fita e outro sem a fita nasal. Fluxo e volume respiratório foram mensurados durante o teste; duas horas após o término do exercício, foi realizado lavado broncoalveolar para realização de citologia da secreção pulmonar. Foi verificada maior porcentagem de neutrófilos após o exercício nos animais que se exercitaram com a fita nasal (P<0,05), indicando que o turbilhonamento na passagem do ar através da cavidade nasal pode ter diminuído, permitindo que partículas maiores se depositassem em porções mais distais do sistema respiratório, induzindo uma resposta neutrofílica mais intensa. Não houve diferenças entre os parâmetros ventilatórios analisados entre os animais quando correram com ou sem a fita nasal (P>0,05). O uso da fita nasal parece influenciar alguns parâmetros, durante e após o exercício, em animais que realizam provas de longa duração. Outros estudos devem ser realizados para verificar se essa influência pode melhorar o desempenho desses animais em exercícios predominantemente aeróbicos.(AU)