Intracranial lipomatous hamartoma in the pontocerebellum of sheep / Hamartoma lipomatoso intracraniano pontocerebellar em ovelhas

Intracranial lipomatous hamartomas are considered a non-invasive, benign lesion formed by well-differentiated adipocytes with or without capsules. A necropsy of an ewe presenting apathy, hypokinesis, anorexia, and adipsia revealed a soft, whitish, oval, pendular nodule approximately 6 mm long in the bulb region, located in the pontocerebellum. Histopathological assessments revealed a benign lesion formed mainly by well-differentiated adipocytes, fibrocytes, myelinated nervous fibers, and skeletal striated muscle, characterizing an intracranial lipomatous hamartoma. This is the first report of this condition in sheep.

O hamartoma lipomatoso intracraniano é considerado uma lesão benigna não invasiva formada por adipócitos bem diferenciados com ou sem cápsulas. A necropsia de uma ovelha com apatia, hipocinesia, anorexia e adipsia revelou um nódulo pendular oval, macio, esbranquiçado, de aproximadamente 6 mm de comprimento na região do bulbo, localizado no pontocerebelo. A histopatologia revelou lesão proliferativa formada principalmente por adipócitos bem diferenciados, fibrócitos, fibras nervosas mielinizadas e músculo estriado esquelético caracterizando hamartoma lipomatoso intracraniano. Este é o primeiro relato da condição em ovelhas.

Juvenile panhypopituitarism in a dog - what are the therapeutic challenges?

Background: Juvenile panhypopituitarism is an endocrinopathy that affects young dogs and must be differentiated from other causes of height disorders, as one could have a deficiency of one or more adenohypophysis hormones, besides growth hormone. Diagnosis consists of excluding endocrine and non-endocrine causes. Treatment requires administration of heterologous porcine growth hormone or progestins, as well as supplementing other hormones that are deficient in the circulation. The prognosis for these patients tends to be unfavorable and they have a shorter life expectancy. The present case aimed to report the therapeutic challenges in a dog diagnosed with juvenile panhypopituitarism. Case: This study presents the case of a 6-month-old crossbred Labrador/Brazilian Fila dog, not neutered, 6.7 kg of body weight (body condition score 5/9), with a growth disorder and persistence of the puppy coat, when compared to other members of the same litter. During inspection, it was possible to observe an undersized dog and soft puppy coat, besides no bone irregularities or joint tenderness was noted. The other physical examination parameters were within the normal range for the species. No changes in complete blood count and only increases in urea, cholesterol and alkaline phosphatase activity were observed. Thyroid and abdominal ultrasound (US) examination did not reveal any remarkable changes. After serum dosage of insulin-like growth factor, thyroxine, thyrostimulating hormone, and cortisol, the patient was diagnosed with juvenile panhypopituitarism and underwent therapy with medroxyprogesterone and thyroid hormone supplementation. Monitoring was instituted at intervals of 3, 6, and 12 weeks, and currently every 3 or 4 months and the IGF-1 values normalized after 6 months with. After 8 months of therapy, the patient had good body growth and bone mineralization compared to the time of diagnosis. However, skeletal development was completed only 12 months after hormone replacement, accompanied by the presence of vertebral osteophytes and coxofemoral osteoarticular alterations. Considering chronic use of progestins, ovariosalpingohysterectomy (OSH) was recommended, but for personal reasons, the owners chose to do not submit her to surgery. After 18 months of treatment, the dog starts to exhibit prostration, selective appetite, and increased abdominal volume. After imaging exam, she was forwarded for OSH, due to consistent findings of pyometra. Subsequently, even the supervision of possible comorbidities involved in the chronic use of progestins was maintained at half-yearly intervals, the bitch returned to the service with skin thickening, increased limb volume, and macroglossia after 60 months of therapy. At this point IGF-1 values were higher when compared to the previous measurements and the application of medroxyprogesterone was suspended. Its supplementation was reintroduced only after 8 months when IGF-1 was significantly reduced. To date, the patient is close to 6 years of age and with a good quality of life. Discussion: The greatest therapeutic challenge for these patients involves dealing with the adverse effects of progestins, mainly related to reproductive disorders and alopecia at the application site, as well as maintaining adequate hormone replacement in order to avoid hypersomatotropism. Although longevity is lower in these individuals, the patient in this report has achieved 6 years of age and has had an excellent quality of life so far.

Tratamento do rádio curvo em cão jovem com associação das técnicas de grampeamento fisário radial, ostectomia ulnar e fixador externo dinâmico transarticular / Treatment of radius curvus in a young dog with association of radial physeal stapling, ulnar ostectomy and transarticular dynamic external fixator techniques

Background: Radius curvus is a clinical manifestation of the premature closure of the distal ulnar physis and the mostcommon physeal disease in dogs, representing 63% of all physeal injuries. There are few reports indicating the techniqueof stapling for treatment of radius curvus in squeletically immature dogs. The aim of this study is to report a case of radiuscurvus in a young dog successfully treated with a combination of 3 surgical tecniques: 1- Stapling the medial and cranialportions of the distal radial physis; 2- Oblique osteotomy of the proximal ulna and ostectomy of the distal ulna, and 3-Dynamic external skeletal fixation in the elbow joint.Case: A 5-month-old female dog was referred to the University Veterinary Hospital with a history of left thoracic limb deformity for 2 months. There was a history of possible traumatic event on the front limb, in addition to providing nutritionalsupplements daily. In the radiographic evaluation the changes were identified in the left thoracic limb: shortening of theulna, procurvatum and medial angulation of the distal radius, increased joint space and articular incongruity of the elbowjoint. The dog was subjected to surgical treatment by the combination of three main surgical techniques. For the staplingof the distal radial physis the surgical approach on the cranial-medial surface of the distal radius was made. Two surgicalstaples were positioned in the distal radial physis. Thereafter a caudal approach was made to the distal region of the ulnardiaphysis for the distal ostectomy of the ulna. A bone segment of 1 cm in length of the distal ulnar diaphysis was removed.Another caudal approach was made to the proximal region of the ulnar diaphysis and a proximal oblique osteotomy of theulna was performed. For the dynamic external skeletal fixation in the elbow joint two Steinmann pins were inserted. Thefirst pin was proximal to the supracondilar...

Tratamento do rádio curvo em cão jovem com associação das técnicas de grampeamento fisário radial, ostectomia ulnar e fixador externo dinâmico transarticular / Treatment of radius curvus in a young dog with association of radial physeal stapling, ulnar ostectomy and transarticular dynamic external fixator techniques

Background: Radius curvus is a clinical manifestation of the premature closure of the distal ulnar physis and the mostcommon physeal disease in dogs, representing 63% of all physeal injuries. There are few reports indicating the techniqueof stapling for treatment of radius curvus in squeletically immature dogs. The aim of this study is to report a case of radiuscurvus in a young dog successfully treated with a combination of 3 surgical tecniques: 1- Stapling the medial and cranialportions of the distal radial physis; 2- Oblique osteotomy of the proximal ulna and ostectomy of the distal ulna, and 3-Dynamic external skeletal fixation in the elbow joint.Case: A 5-month-old female dog was referred to the University Veterinary Hospital with a history of left thoracic limb deformity for 2 months. There was a history of possible traumatic event on the front limb, in addition to providing nutritionalsupplements daily. In the radiographic evaluation the changes were identified in the left thoracic limb: shortening of theulna, procurvatum and medial angulation of the distal radius, increased joint space and articular incongruity of the elbowjoint. The dog was subjected to surgical treatment by the combination of three main surgical techniques. For the staplingof the distal radial physis the surgical approach on the cranial-medial surface of the distal radius was made. Two surgicalstaples were positioned in the distal radial physis. Thereafter a caudal approach was made to the distal region of the ulnardiaphysis for the distal ostectomy of the ulna. A bone segment of 1 cm in length of the distal ulnar diaphysis was removed.Another caudal approach was made to the proximal region of the ulnar diaphysis and a proximal oblique osteotomy of theulna was performed. For the dynamic external skeletal fixation in the elbow joint two Steinmann pins were inserted. Thefirst pin was proximal to the supracondilar...(AU)

Atresia ani (imperforated anus) in calves: clinical, surgical and pathological aspects

Background: Anal atresia is a congenital malformation, which often affects calves, and is related to the imperforation of the membrane that separates the endoderm of the posterior intestine from the ectodermal anal membrane. It is commonly associated with other congenital malformations and skeletal anomalies. The clinical signs generally appear in the first days of the animal's life, due to a retention of feces. The diagnosis is clinical and is based on observation, anamnesis and a physical examination of the animal. The only viable treatment is surgical. This paper aims to report 6 cases of anal atresia in bovine calves, 4 males and 2 females that were successfully treated surgically. Cases: This work reports 6 cases of anal atresia in 4 male calves and 2 female calves. Three presented total atresia (type II), one partial (type I) and in both female calves, anal atresia and rectovaginal fistula (type IV) were observed. The animals were all of undefined race. Five of the cases were from northern Tocantins, 4 males and 1 female (anal atresia with rectovaginal fistula), and 1 female (anal atresia with rectovaginal fistula) was from Valença, RJ. All animals were born active, by eutocic/natural birth, and assumed a quadrupedal position followed by the first feeding as normal. They were aged between 2 days and 6 months, and had a clinical history of abdominal distention and difficulty or inability defecating, and the females both also had a rectovaginal fistula, all cases compatible with anal atresia. Based on the patient's history and clinical examination, surgical treatment for anal reconstruction was decided upon. Postoperative treatment consisted of enrofloxacin [2.5 mg/kg - intramuscularly (IM), once daily (SID), for 5 days] and fluxinin meglumine [1.1 mg/kg - IM, SID, for 3 days] ; as well as a healing ointment which was applied to the area of the surgical wound, every 12 h, for 7 days. There were no trans-surgical complications. The animals showed progressive recovery after anal reconstruction and the stitches were removed in all cases on the 10th postoperative day, with no postoperative complications and no recurrence of any clinical signs from that moment on. Discussion: The study of congenital and hereditary changes enables the identification of their origins, can help prevent new cases and, some of them, are open to economically viable treatment and/or correction that can improve the well-being of the animal and prevent economic losses due to death or animal sacrifice, as reported in the present study. Anal atresia is the most common congenital defect of the lower gastrointestinal tract in calves, being an isolated abnormality, or associated with other malformations, especially of the distal spinal column such as the absence of a tail (perosomus acaudatus), as one of the animals in this study. The clinical signs and physical examination are sufficient to establish the diagnosis, as demonstrated in this report, which is usually made in newborn animals, due to the lack or difficulty in defecation associated with no anal orifice and/or swelling in the perineal region. The treatment of choice for anal atresia is surgical, in order to construct an anal neo-orifice and thus avoid endotoxemic shock as well as providing relief and well-being for the animals. As observed in this study, when anal atresia is diagnosed early, and surgical treatment is properly instituted, the prognosis is favorable. The surgery is considered of low complexity, quick and it can be carried out in the field. Thus, from a commercial point of view, considering the costs of the procedures and the value of the calf at the end of weaning, such treatments are beneficial to the owners. In addition, the surgical treatment is essential for animal health and welfare in cases of anal atresia.

A dicephalus calf: anatomical, pathological and radiographic aspects

Congenital malformations are morphofunctional abnormalities of tissues and organs that can occur during embryonic or fetal development in all animal species. Among these, dicephalus is characterized by the development of an individual with two heads and two necks, due to the total duplication of facial, cranial, and brain structures. Reports of dicephalus in cattle are scarce and do not normally emphasize radiographic and bone anatomy characteristics. The objective was to describe a case of a stillborn dicephalus calf. The duplication of the head, brain, neck, and two thoracic vertebral columns, isolated from each other, with 13 vertebrae each was verified radiographically. There were 13 pairs of ribs, the ones on the right side articulated with the thoracic spine on the right and the left ones with the spine on the left. Caudally at T13, there was only one lumbar spine, sacral and coccygeal. In the ventrodorsal projection, L1, L2, L3, and L6 had the shape of a butterfly (suggestive of hemivertebrae). At necropsy, in addition to craniocervical and spinal morphological changes, collapsed lungs, duplication of the heart with anastomosis between the aortic arches of the hearts, and duplication of the upper digestive tract were observed. Additionally, there was arthrogryposis of the pelvic limbs. Corpse maceration, followed by the skeletal assembly, showed the bone changes previously observed and confirmed the suspicion of hemivertebrae.

A dicephalus calf: anatomical, pathological and radiographic aspects

Congenital malformations are morphofunctional abnormalities of tissues and organs that can occur during embryonic or fetal development in all animal species. Among these, dicephalus is characterized by the development of an individual with two heads and two necks, due to the total duplication of facial, cranial, and brain structures. Reports of dicephalus in cattle are scarce and do not normally emphasize radiographic and bone anatomy characteristics. The objective was to describe a case of a stillborn dicephalus calf. The duplication of the head, brain, neck, and two thoracic vertebral columns, isolated from each other, with 13 vertebrae each was verified radiographically. There were 13 pairs of ribs, the ones on the right side articulated with the thoracic spine on the right and the left ones with the spine on the left. Caudally at T13, there was only one lumbar spine, sacral and coccygeal. In the ventrodorsal projection, L1, L2, L3, and L6 had the shape of a butterfly (suggestive of hemivertebrae). At necropsy, in addition to craniocervical and spinal morphological changes, collapsed lungs, duplication of the heart with anastomosis between the aortic arches of the hearts, and duplication of the upper digestive tract were observed. Additionally, there was arthrogryposis of the pelvic limbs. Corpse maceration, followed by the skeletal assembly, showed the bone changes previously observed and confirmed the suspicion of hemivertebrae.(AU)

Comparação clínica entre dois métodos de estabilização em desvio angular distal de tíbia corrigido pela metodologia CORA / Clinical comparison between two stabilization methods in distal tibial angular deviation corrected by the CORA method

Background: Angular deformity is characterized by the deviation of part of the bone that can occur in three different planes, frontal, sagittal and transverse. Trauma on physeal plates is the most common cause of angular deviations of the limbs in dogs. Currently the CORA (Center of Rotation of Angulation) methodology is the best way to evaluate and surgically correct these deformities. The objective of this study is to describe the surgical procedures performed to treat the uniapical valgus deviation affecting both tibial bones in a dog, comparing the outcomes of hybrid external skeletal fixator used in the right pelvic limb in relation to the locking plate used in the left pelvic limb. Case: A 10-month old Border Collie dog was attended at the University Veterinary Hospital with history of lameness and deviation of both pelvic limbs. In the orthopedic examination, it was possible to identify bilateral valgus deviation in the region of the tibio-tarsal joints and moderate lameness, with absence of pain or joint crepitation. Radiographic examination showed that the deformity was only uniapical in the frontal plane, affecting both tibial bones of the dog. Signs of osteoarthrosis were not observed and the preoperative examinations were within the normal limits for the species. The deformities were corrected in two surgical times starting with the procedure in the right tibia, which appeared to be clinically worse. Due to the fact that it was a bilateral affection and there was not a healthy pelvic limb to obtain the normal angles values of this dog, for planning according to the CORA methodology, the values of the tibial mechanical angles for dogs of similar size were taken from the literature. For surgical correction of the right tibia, a closed wedge osteotomy was performed following the second rule of Paley

Comparação clínica entre dois métodos de estabilização em desvio angular distal de tíbia corrigido pela metodologia CORA / Clinical comparison between two stabilization methods in distal tibial angular deviation corrected by the CORA method

Background: Angular deformity is characterized by the deviation of part of the bone that can occur in three different planes, frontal, sagittal and transverse. Trauma on physeal plates is the most common cause of angular deviations of the limbs in dogs. Currently the CORA (Center of Rotation of Angulation) methodology is the best way to evaluate and surgically correct these deformities. The objective of this study is to describe the surgical procedures performed to treat the uniapical valgus deviation affecting both tibial bones in a dog, comparing the outcomes of hybrid external skeletal fixator used in the right pelvic limb in relation to the locking plate used in the left pelvic limb. Case: A 10-month old Border Collie dog was attended at the University Veterinary Hospital with history of lameness and deviation of both pelvic limbs. In the orthopedic examination, it was possible to identify bilateral valgus deviation in the region of the tibio-tarsal joints and moderate lameness, with absence of pain or joint crepitation. Radiographic examination showed that the deformity was only uniapical in the frontal plane, affecting both tibial bones of the dog. Signs of osteoarthrosis were not observed and the preoperative examinations were within the normal limits for the species. The deformities were corrected in two surgical times starting with the procedure in the right tibia, which appeared to be clinically worse. Due to the fact that it was a bilateral affection and there was not a healthy pelvic limb to obtain the normal angles values of this dog, for planning according to the CORA methodology, the values of the tibial mechanical angles for dogs of similar size were taken from the literature. For surgical correction of the right tibia, a closed wedge osteotomy was performed following the second rule of Paley…(AU)

Growth performance and incidence of skeletal anomalies in pacu larvae under different weaning protocols / Desempenho e incidência de anomalias esqueléticas em larvas de pacu sob diferentes protocolos de transição alimentar

The inadequate supply of food during a fishs larval stage, in addition to impairing growth and survival, may lead to the emergence of skeletal anomalies, since essential nutrients are involved in the osteogenic process. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two weaning periods on growth, survival and incidence of skeletal anomalies in pacu larvae (Piaractus mesopotamicus) during its initial development. The larvae (5 dph) were placed in 100L tanks at a density of 12 larvae L-1, during 42 days. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with four feeding treatments: (A) larvae fed only Artemia nauplii; (D) larvae fed only formulated diet; and two treatments with different weaning periods, early at six (W6) and late, at twelve days of feeding (W12). Higher growth indexes and survival rates were observed in A and W12, in comparison to W6 and D. At the end of the experiment, larvae fed Artemia nauplii and subjected to late weaning (W12) presented higher mass gain and survival, in comparison to W6 and D, however the incidence of skeletal anomalies was similar among treatments. It was concluded that the emergence of skeletal anomalies in P. mesopotamicus larvae was not associated to the weaning protocols used in this study and late weaning, at 12 days of feeding, did not impair growth and survival of these larvae.(AU)

A oferta inadequada do alimento durante a fase larval dos peixes, além de prejudicar o crescimento e a sobrevivência, podem causar anomalias esqueléticas, uma vez que nutrientes essenciais estão envolvidos na osteogênese. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos de dois períodos de transição alimentar no crescimento, sobrevivência e na incidência de anomalias esqueléticas em larvas de pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) durante seu desenvolvimento inicial. Larvas com 5 dias pós-eclosão (dph) foram acondicionadas em tanques (100L), em uma densidade de 12 larvas L-1, durante 42 dias. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado e apresentou quatro tratamentos alimentares: (A) larvas alimentadas apenas com náuplios de artêmia; (D) larvas alimentadas apenas com dieta formulada; e dois tratamentos com diferentes períodos de início da transição entre alimento vivo e formulado, (W6) prematuro, aos seis dias de alimentação, e (W12) tardio, aos 12 dias de alimentação. Ao final do experimento, as larvas dos tratamentos A e W12 apresentaram médias de ganho em massa e sobrevivência maiores que as dos tratamentos W6 e D, no entanto a incidência de anomalias esqueléticas foi similar entre os tratamentos. Foi possível concluir que incidência de anomalias esqueléticas em larvas de P. mesopotamicus não foi associada aos protocolos de transição alimentar adotados nesse estudo e a transição alimentar tardia, aos 12 dias de alimentação, pode ser realizada sem comprometer o crescimento e sobrevivência das larvas.(AU)

Growth performance and incidence of skeletal anomalies in pacu larvae under different weaning protocols / Desempenho e incidência de anomalias esqueléticas em larvas de pacu sob diferentes protocolos de transição alimentar

The inadequate supply of food during a fish’s larval stage, in addition to impairing growth and survival, may lead to the emergence of skeletal anomalies, since essential nutrients are involved in the osteogenic process. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two weaning periods on growth, survival and incidence of skeletal anomalies in pacu larvae (Piaractus mesopotamicus) during its initial development. The larvae (5 dph) were placed in 100L tanks at a density of 12 larvae L-1, during 42 days. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with four feeding treatments: (A) larvae fed only Artemia nauplii; (D) larvae fed only formulated diet; and two treatments with different weaning periods, early at six (W6) and late, at twelve days of feeding (W12). Higher growth indexes and survival rates were observed in A and W12, in comparison to W6 and D. At the end of the experiment, larvae fed Artemia nauplii and subjected to late weaning (W12) presented higher mass gain and survival, in comparison to W6 and D, however the incidence of skeletal anomalies was similar among treatments. It was concluded that the emergence of skeletal anomalies in P. mesopotamicus larvae was not associated to the weaning protocols used in this study and late weaning, at 12 days of feeding, did not impair growth and survival of these larvae.

A oferta inadequada do alimento durante a fase larval dos peixes, além de prejudicar o crescimento e a sobrevivência, podem causar anomalias esqueléticas, uma vez que nutrientes essenciais estão envolvidos na osteogênese. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos de dois períodos de transição alimentar no crescimento, sobrevivência e na incidência de anomalias esqueléticas em larvas de pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus) durante seu desenvolvimento inicial. Larvas com 5 dias pós-eclosão (dph) foram acondicionadas em tanques (100L), em uma densidade de 12 larvas L-1, durante 42 dias. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado e apresentou quatro tratamentos alimentares: (A) larvas alimentadas apenas com náuplios de artêmia; (D) larvas alimentadas apenas com dieta formulada; e dois tratamentos com diferentes períodos de início da transição entre alimento vivo e formulado, (W6) prematuro, aos seis dias de alimentação, e (W12) tardio, aos 12 dias de alimentação. Ao final do experimento, as larvas dos tratamentos A e W12 apresentaram médias de ganho em massa e sobrevivência maiores que as dos tratamentos W6 e D, no entanto a incidência de anomalias esqueléticas foi similar entre os tratamentos. Foi possível concluir que incidência de anomalias esqueléticas em larvas de P. mesopotamicus não foi associada aos protocolos de transição alimentar adotados nesse estudo e a transição alimentar tardia, aos 12 dias de alimentação, pode ser realizada sem comprometer o crescimento e sobrevivência das larvas.

Congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis in newly born lambs in Al Muthanna province Iraq. Suspicion of Akabane virus infection / Anormalidades congênitas e artrogripose em cordeiros recém-nascidos na província de Al Muthanna, Iraque. Suspeita de infecção pelo vírus Akabane

Akabane virus, a member of the Orthobunyavirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae, causes congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydroencephaly in ruminants. This study intends to describe the clinical signs, gross and histopathological features seen in 25 affected lambs in an outbreak of congenital arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydranencephaly in Al-Muthanna governorate, Iraq after a large number of stillbirths and musculoskeletal deformities from October 2017 to May 2018. Skeletal muscle hypoplasia was seen in the limbs of the affected lambs accompanied with severe arthrogryposis and gross visible brain malformations. In addition, fetal mummifications, stillbirths, and dead lambs were also seen. The most histopathological features in muscle fibers were degenerative lesions and absences of cross-striation accompanied with mild infiltration of neutrophils and mononuclear cells in severely affected lambs. The meninges of affected lambs revealed fused membranes with focal areas of fibrous thickenings and necrotic debris. In conclusion, according to clinical signs, gross and histopathological investigations, Akabane virus, a member of the Orthobunyavirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae, causes congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydroencephaly in ruminants and could be the cause of this outbreak, although future studies must be performed to confirm the etiology of this outbreak. Moreover, other causes of hydrocephalus or cerebellar malformation, such as Schmallenberg virus, bluetongue virus and border disease virus and teratogenic plants that lead to arthrogryposis, have to be investigated. Also, the authorities should take prevention and control measurements to stop the replication of arthropod vectors.(AU)

O presente trabalho descreve os sinais clínicos, as lesões macroscópicas e os aspectos histológicos observados em 25 cordeiros acometidos em um surto de artrogripose congênita com hidrocéfalo ou hidrocefalia registrado no Iraque, governadoria Al-Muthama após a ocorrência de nascimentos prematuros e deformidades músculo-esqueléticas no período compreendido entre outubro de 2017 e maio de 2018. A hipoplasia músculo-esquelética foi observada nos membros dos cordeiros afetados, acompanhada de severa artrogripose e malformações cerebrais, grosseiras visíveis, além de mumificações fetais, nascimentos prematuros e morte de cordeiros. Os principais aspectos histopatológicos nas fibras musculares foram lesões degenerativas e ausências da estriação cruzada acompanhada de leve infiltração de neutrófilos e células mononucleares dos cordeiros severamente afetados. As meninges dos cordeiros afetados apresentaram fusão de membranas com áreas focais de espessamento fibroso e debris necróticos. O vírus Akabane, um membro do gênero Orthobunyavirus, da família Bunyaviridae, causa anormalidades congênitas e artrogripose com hidrocéfalo e hidrocefalia em ruminantes e poderá vir a ser a causa do presente surto. Os autores recomendam a realização de novos estudos com investigações epidemiológicas e isolamento do agente causal. Contudo, outras causas de hidrocéfalo ou malformações cerebrais como as determinadas pelo vírus Schmallenberg, vírus da língua azul e vírus da doença de border, bem como de plantas teratogênicas que determinam a artrogripose, também deverão ser investigadas. As autoridades sanitárias deverão tomar medidas de prevenção e controle para bloquear a replicação do vírus em artrópodes vetores.(AU)

The Investigation of the Relationship Between HSP-27 Release and Oxidative DNA Damage in Broiler Chickens with Tibial Dyschondroplasia by Using Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Methods

Tibial dyschondroplasia (TD) is a skeletal disorder that occurs in the proximal metaphyses of tibiotarsus and sometimes tarsometatarsus, resulting in the development of avascularized and non-mineralized abnormal cartilage and causing significant economic loss. In this study, we aimed to show the histopathological changes and the relationship between the release of Heat-Shock Protein 27 (HSP-27) and oxidative DNA damage in broiler chickens with tibial dyschondroplasia, using histopathologic and immunohistochemical methods. Our study material consisted of totally 20 animals out of 42 days old 205 Ross 308 broiler chickens, 10 with TD lesions and 10 healthy control subjects. Tissue samples taken from animals performed necropsy was exposed to routine tissue follow-up. Macroscopically, unilateral and bilateral thickening and swelling were observed in the growth plates of tibiotarsal joints of the broiler chickens diagnosed with tibial dyscondroplasia. Histopathologic examination of the tibiotarsal joints of broiler chickens affected by TD revealed an increase in the number of immature chondrocytes, as well as deficiencies in vascularization and calcification. In the immunohistochemical study; HSP-27 and 8-OHDG release was positive in the chondrocytes located on the Proliferative Zone, Maturation Zone and Hypertrophic Zone. However, the positivity was the most profound in the PZ and MZ, while less in the HZ chondrocytes. As a result; we demonstrated by immunohistochemical methods that the increase in the HSP-27 release is parallel to the increase in 8-OHDG release in TD lesioned areas and this may be related to oxidative stress.

The Investigation of the Relationship Between HSP-27 Release and Oxidative DNA Damage in Broiler Chickens with Tibial Dyschondroplasia by Using Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Methods

Tibial dyschondroplasia (TD) is a skeletal disorder that occurs in the proximal metaphyses of tibiotarsus and sometimes tarsometatarsus, resulting in the development of avascularized and non-mineralized abnormal cartilage and causing significant economic loss. In this study, we aimed to show the histopathological changes and the relationship between the release of Heat-Shock Protein 27 (HSP-27) and oxidative DNA damage in broiler chickens with tibial dyschondroplasia, using histopathologic and immunohistochemical methods. Our study material consisted of totally 20 animals out of 42 days old 205 Ross 308 broiler chickens, 10 with TD lesions and 10 healthy control subjects. Tissue samples taken from animals performed necropsy was exposed to routine tissue follow-up. Macroscopically, unilateral and bilateral thickening and swelling were observed in the growth plates of tibiotarsal joints of the broiler chickens diagnosed with tibial dyscondroplasia. Histopathologic examination of the tibiotarsal joints of broiler chickens affected by TD revealed an increase in the number of immature chondrocytes, as well as deficiencies in vascularization and calcification. In the immunohistochemical study; HSP-27 and 8-OHDG release was positive in the chondrocytes located on the Proliferative Zone, Maturation Zone and Hypertrophic Zone. However, the positivity was the most profound in the PZ and MZ, while less in the HZ chondrocytes. As a result; we demonstrated by immunohistochemical methods that the increase in the HSP-27 release is parallel to the increase in 8-OHDG release in TD lesioned areas and this may be related to oxidative stress.(AU)

Deformities in reared cobia, Rachycentron canadum L. and grouper, Epinephelus marginatus, in São Paulo state coast, Brazil: case report / Deformidades em cobias, Rachycentron canadum L, e garoupas, Epinephelus marginatus, cultivadas na costa do estado de São Paulo, Brasil: relato de caso

Skeletal deformities are frequent problems in cultured fish populations due mainly to unfavorable abiotic conditions, inappropriate nutrition, and genetic factors. These may cause erratic swimming, decrease of conversion rate, growth, and market value. The aim of this case report was to present the occurrence of deformities in juvenile cobia and groupers from an offshore marine farm in Ilhabela, São Paulo, Brazil. Nine cobias and seven juvenile groupers, that presented deformities, were euthanized and fixed in 10% formaldehyde. They were tagged, processed, and stained with "Alcian Blue" (AB) and "Alizarin Red-S" (ARS) for visualization of cartilage and bone tissue, respectively. After evisceration, radiographic examination was performed. The deformities observed in cobia were atrophy of the operculum, disorganization of the gill lamellae, deformity of the lower jaw, kyphosis, and scoliosis. Groupers presented lower jaw deformity and saddleback syndrome. The farm studied in this case report had poor management standards, fed commercial feed for freshwater herbivorous fish and cooked sardines, high inbreeding and absence of adequately trained professionals to manage these species. The sum of these factors must have directly influenced the appearance of these deformities. It is necessary to control this situation to minimize the incidence of malformations that have economic impacts to farmers.(AU)

As deformidades esqueléticas são problemas frequentes em populações de peixes cultivados devido, principalmente, a condições abióticas desfavoráveis, nutrição inapropriada e fatores genéticos. Estas podem causar natação errática, diminuição do índice de conversão, do crescimento e do valor no mercado. O objetivo deste relato de caso foi apresentar a ocorrência de deformidades em cobias e garoupas juvenis provenientes de uma fazenda marinha em sistema offshore, em Ilhabela, São Paulo, Brasil. Nove cobias e sete garoupas juvenis, que apresentavam deformidades, foram sujeitos à eutanásia e fixados em formol a 10%. Os espécimes foram registrados, processados e corados com "Alcian Blue" (AB) e "Alizarin Red-S" (ARS) para visualização de tecido cartilaginoso e ósseo, respectivamente. Os peixes foram eviscerados para o exame radiográfico. As deformidades observadas em cobia foram: atrofia do opérculo, desorganização das lamelas branquiais, deformidade do maxilar inferior, cifose e escoliose. As garoupas apresentaram deformidade do maxilar inferior e síndrome de Saddleback. Os peixes deste relato de caso estiveram sob manejo deficiente, alimentados com ração comercial para peixes herbívoros de água doce e sardinhas cozinhadas, alta consanguinidade e ausência de profissionais adequadamente treinados para o manejo dessas espécies. A soma desses fatores influenciou diretamente na aparição dessas deformidades, precisando ser controlados para minimizar a incidência de malformações que tenham impacto econômico para os produtores.(AU)

Deformities in reared cobia, Rachycentron canadum L. and grouper, Epinephelus marginatus, in São Paulo state coast, Brazil: case report / Deformidades em cobias, Rachycentron canadum L, e garoupas, Epinephelus marginatus, cultivadas na costa do estado de São Paulo, Brasil: relato de caso

Skeletal deformities are frequent problems in cultured fish populations due mainly to unfavorable abiotic conditions, inappropriate nutrition, and genetic factors. These may cause erratic swimming, decrease of conversion rate, growth, and market value. The aim of this case report was to present the occurrence of deformities in juvenile cobia and groupers from an offshore marine farm in Ilhabela, São Paulo, Brazil. Nine cobias and seven juvenile groupers, that presented deformities, were euthanized and fixed in 10% formaldehyde. They were tagged, processed, and stained with "Alcian Blue" (AB) and "Alizarin Red-S" (ARS) for visualization of cartilage and bone tissue, respectively. After evisceration, radiographic examination was performed. The deformities observed in cobia were atrophy of the operculum, disorganization of the gill lamellae, deformity of the lower jaw, kyphosis, and scoliosis. Groupers presented lower jaw deformity and saddleback syndrome. The farm studied in this case report had poor management standards, fed commercial feed for freshwater herbivorous fish and cooked sardines, high inbreeding and absence of adequately trained professionals to manage these species. The sum of these factors must have directly influenced the appearance of these deformities. It is necessary to control this situation to minimize the incidence of malformations that have economic impacts to farmers.(AU)

As deformidades esqueléticas são problemas frequentes em populações de peixes cultivados devido, principalmente, a condições abióticas desfavoráveis, nutrição inapropriada e fatores genéticos. Estas podem causar natação errática, diminuição do índice de conversão, do crescimento e do valor no mercado. O objetivo deste relato de caso foi apresentar a ocorrência de deformidades em cobias e garoupas juvenis provenientes de uma fazenda marinha em sistema offshore, em Ilhabela, São Paulo, Brasil. Nove cobias e sete garoupas juvenis, que apresentavam deformidades, foram sujeitos à eutanásia e fixados em formol a 10%. Os espécimes foram registrados, processados e corados com "Alcian Blue" (AB) e "Alizarin Red-S" (ARS) para visualização de tecido cartilaginoso e ósseo, respectivamente. Os peixes foram eviscerados para o exame radiográfico. As deformidades observadas em cobia foram: atrofia do opérculo, desorganização das lamelas branquiais, deformidade do maxilar inferior, cifose e escoliose. As garoupas apresentaram deformidade do maxilar inferior e síndrome de Saddleback. Os peixes deste relato de caso estiveram sob manejo deficiente, alimentados com ração comercial para peixes herbívoros de água doce e sardinhas cozinhadas, alta consanguinidade e ausência de profissionais adequadamente treinados para o manejo dessas espécies. A soma desses fatores influenciou diretamente na aparição dessas deformidades, precisando ser controlados para minimizar a incidência de malformações que tenham impacto econômico para os produtores.(AU)

Creation of a contusion injury method for skeletal muscle in rats with differing impacts

Purpose: To realize a morphological examination of the musculoskeletal tissue, assessing the effect of a contusion method for the production in rat gastrocnemius, comparing the inflammatory responses generated by different impacts. Methods: For the analysis of a contusion method, twelve female Wistar rats were distributed into four groups. The lesion was generated by 324 g of mass that was dropped from different predetermined heights for each group (30, 45, 60 and 70 cm). Results: In the analysis of musculoskeletal tissue, the response to injury varied according to the mass of the height drop onto the muscle. Only the group that was injured from 70 cm responded with uniform and severe inflammation, whereas the groups 30, 45 and 60 cm showed inflammation in some regions of the tissue with mild and moderate infiltrates. Conclusion: The method with the 324-gram mass dropped from a 70-cm height onto the gastrocnemius muscle of rats seems to be the most suitable for the production of muscle injury in these animals after 72 hours, showing an important inflammatory infiltrate.(AU)

Effect of zinc level and source (zinc oxide vs. Zinc glycine) on bone mechanical and geometric parameters, and histomorphology in male ross 308 broiler chicken

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding zinc (Zn) mineral supplements from organic (ZnGly) and inorganic (ZnO) sources to growing male Ross 308 chickens on the mechanical, geometric, and histomorphometrical parameters of long bones. A corn-soybean meal basal diet was supplemented with Zn at 50 or 100 mg·kg-1 of a premix, except the control group (0 suppl). The serum concentration of insulin-like growth factor 1 was higher in the ZnGly50 group compared with the control group. Positive influence of Zn on the femur is highlighted when considering the significant increase in parameters such as mean relative wall thickness, and maximum elastic and ultimate strengths after Zn administration. Zinc supplementation did not affect tibial parameters. The histomorphometric analysis showed a positive impact of Zn supplementation (irrespective of source and level) on femoral trabecular thickness. Rapid loss in actual bone volume in tibial metaphyseal trabeculae was observed with ZnGly at 50 mg·kg-1. In conclusion, this study showed that dietary Zn supplementation positively influences bone mechanical properties, confirming its beneficial effect on the development of the skeletal system and bone tissue of broilers tested for a nutritional-osteoporotic factor. Adverse health effects in trabecular bone as a result of the use of Zn at 50 mg·kg-1 of the premix show that supplementing Zn at the recommended dose (100 mg·kg-1) is essential.

Effect of zinc level and source (zinc oxide vs. Zinc glycine) on bone mechanical and geometric parameters, and histomorphology in male ross 308 broiler chicken

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding zinc (Zn) mineral supplements from organic (ZnGly) and inorganic (ZnO) sources to growing male Ross 308 chickens on the mechanical, geometric, and histomorphometrical parameters of long bones. A corn-soybean meal basal diet was supplemented with Zn at 50 or 100 mg·kg-1 of a premix, except the control group (0 suppl). The serum concentration of insulin-like growth factor 1 was higher in the ZnGly50 group compared with the control group. Positive influence of Zn on the femur is highlighted when considering the significant increase in parameters such as mean relative wall thickness, and maximum elastic and ultimate strengths after Zn administration. Zinc supplementation did not affect tibial parameters. The histomorphometric analysis showed a positive impact of Zn supplementation (irrespective of source and level) on femoral trabecular thickness. Rapid loss in actual bone volume in tibial metaphyseal trabeculae was observed with ZnGly at 50 mg·kg-1. In conclusion, this study showed that dietary Zn supplementation positively influences bone mechanical properties, confirming its beneficial effect on the development of the skeletal system and bone tissue of broilers tested for a nutritional-osteoporotic factor. Adverse health effects in trabecular bone as a result of the use of Zn at 50 mg·kg-1 of the premix show that supplementing Zn at the recommended dose (100 mg·kg-1) is essential.(AU)

Maternal and fetal toxicity of Wistar rats exposed to herbicide metolachlor / Toxicidade materna e fetal de ratas Wistar expostas ao herbicida metolacloro

Metolachlor is a selective pre-emergent herbicide widely used in agriculture to control weeds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible effects of metolachlor on reproductive performance of adult rats, as well as its teratogenic potential when administered during the period of organogenesis. Pregnant adult female rats were allocated into 4 experimental groups (n = 10 group-1), that received 0 (control); 150 (TA); 300 (TB); or 1000 mg kg-1 bw day-1 (TC) of metolachlor, by gavage, from the 6th to 15th gestational day (GD). There is reduction in the weight gain of the animals from TB and TC groups compared to the control group. Liver and placenta weights were reduced in TB and TC groups, respectively, while the percentage of post-implantation loss was increased in the TC group. There were no external malformations in either rat of the control or treated groups. However, an increased incidence of skeletal anomalies and visceral anomalies (especially in the urogenital system) was observed in TC group. These results demonstrate that exposure of pregnant rats to metolachlor can lead to signs of general toxicity, late embryonic losses and congenital anomalies.(AU)

O metolacloro é um herbicida seletivo de pré-emergência, amplamente usado na agricultura para controlar ervas daninhas. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os possíveis efeitos do metolacloro sobre o desempenho reprodutivo de ratas adultas, bem como o seu potencial teratogênico quando administrado durante o período da organogênese. Ratas adultas prenhes foram divididas em quatro grupos experimentais (n = 10 grupo-1), que receberam 0 (controle); 150 (TA); 300 (TB); ou 1.000 mg kg-1 dia-1 (TC) do metolacloro, via gavagem, do sexto ao 15º dia de gestação (DG). Foi observada redução no ganho de peso dos animais dos grupos TB e TC em comparação ao grupo controle. Os pesos do fígado e placenta foram reduzidos nos grupos TB e TC, respectivamente, enquanto que a percentagem de perda pós-implantação foi aumentada no grupo TC. Não foram observadas malformações externas nos ratos dos grupos controle e tratados. No entanto, foi observado aumento da incidência de anomalias esqueléticas e anomalias viscerais (especialmente no sistema urogenital) no grupo TC. Estes resultados demonstram que a exposição de ratas prenhes ao metolacloro pode levar a sinais de toxicidade geral, perdas embrionárias tardias e anomalias congênitas.(AU)