Dynapenic Abdominal Obesity as a Risk Factor for Metabolic Syndrome in Individual 50 Years of Age or Older: English Longitudinal Study of Ageing.

OBJECTIVES: To analyse whether dynapenic abdominal obesity is a risk factor for Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components in individuals 50 years of age or older. DESIGN: A longitudinal study was conducted with an eight-year follow-up. SETTING: Representative sample of community-dwelling participants of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). PARTICIPANTS: 3,952 individuals free of MetS at baseline. MEASUREMENTS: Dynapenic abdominal obesity was defined based on waist circumference (> 102 cm for men and > 88 cm for women) and grip strength (< 26 kg for men and < 16 kg for women). The participants were classified as non-abdominally obese/non-dynapenic (NAO/ND - reference group), abdominally obese/non-dynapenic (AO/ND), non-abdominally obese/dynapenic (NAO/D) and abdominally obese/dynapenic (AO/D). The outcome was the incidence of MetS based on the presence of three or more of the following criteria: hypertriglyceridemia, hyperglycaemia, low HDL cholesterol, arterial hypertension or body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2 throughout eight-year follow-up. Additionally, the incidence of each component of MetS was also analyzed. Poisson regression models were run and controlled for sociodemographic, behavioural and clinical variables. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 65 years and 55% were women. The prevalence of AO/ND, NAO/D and AO/D were 35.3, 4.3 and 2.2%, respectively. At the end of follow-up 558 incident cases of MetS were recorded. The adjusted model demonstrated that although abdominal obesity was a risk factor for MetS (IRR: 2.26; 95% CI: 1.87 - 2.73), the IRR was greater in AO/D individuals (IRR: 3.34; 95% CI: 2.03 - 5.50) compared with ND/NAO group. Furthermore, ND/AO was a risk factor for incidence of hypertriglyceridemia (IRR: 1.27; 95% CI: 1.06 - 1.52), hyperglycaemia (IRR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.18 - 1.69), low HDL cholesterol (IRR: 1.70; 95% CI: 1.32 - 2.19) and BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 (IRR: 2.58; 95% CI: 2.04 - 3.26) while D/AO was a risk factor for hyperglycaemia (IRR: 1.78; 95% CI: 1.02 - 3.10), low HDL cholesterol (IRR: 2.36; 95% CI: 1.10 - 5.08), and BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 (IRR: 2.79; 95% CI: 1.38 - 5.62). CONCLUSIONS: Dynapenic abdominal obesity increases the risk of MetS, with a higher IRR compared to obesity alone. The understanding of this synergic action could guide specific clinical strategies, enabling the prevention of metabolic changes that can lead to cardiovascular disease, disability and death.

Effects of antifreeze protein from Lolium perenne L. (LpAFP) in the vitrification of in vitro-produced bovine embryos.

In the present study, the cryoprotective effects of Lolium perenne antifreeze protein (LpAFP) on the vitrification of bovine embryos were evaluated. In vitro-produced blastocysts were divided into two groups: the control group (CG) without the addition of LpAFP and the treatment group (TG) with the addition of 500 ng/ml of LpAFP in the equilibrium and vitrification solution. Vitrification was carried out by transferring the blastocysts to the equilibrium solution [7.5% ethylene glycol (EG) and 7.5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)] for 2 min and then to the vitrification solution (15% EG, 15% DMSO and 0.5M sucrose). The blastocysts were deposited on a cryotop device and submerged in liquid nitrogen. Warming was carried out in three steps in solutions with different sucrose concentrations (1.0, 0.5, and 0.0 M, respectively). Embryos were evaluated for re-expansion/hatching, the total cell count, and ultrastructural analysis. There was no significant difference in the re-expansion rate 24 h after warming; however, there was variation (P < 0.05) in the hatching rate in the TG and the total number of cells 24 h after warming was higher in the TG (114.87 ± 7.24) when compared with the CG (91.81 ± 4.94). The ultrastructural analysis showed changes in organelles related to the vitrification process but, in the TG, there was less damage to mitochondria and rough endoplasmic reticulum compared with the CG. In conclusion, the addition of 500 ng/ml of LpAFP during the vitrification of in vitro-produced bovine embryos improved the hatching rate and total cell number of blastocysts after warming and mitigated intracellular damage.

Idiopathic seasonal alopecia in horse: case report / Alopecia sazonal idiopática em equino: relato de caso

This report describes the first case of idiopathic seasonal alopecia in a horse in Brazil. The disease is of unknown etiology, characterized by alopecic processes in the thoracic and lateral abdominal regions, in a bilaterally symmetrical way. An eight-year-old male grade horse was treated presenting hair loss in a bilaterally symmetrical manner in the arm and abdomen areas, without any other associated clinical signs. The areas with alopecia showed no pruritus, inflammation or scaling. On the epidermis, the histological evaluation presented irregular hyperplasia, hyperpigmentation, compact orthokeratosis, edema and an inflammatory infiltrate. The hair follicles were active and containing hair shaft. The case was monitored with photographic records for two consecutive years (2012 to 2014), in which the hair fall occurred at the end of autumn with spontaneous hair growth in the middle of the summer. The diagnosis was based on the history, histopathology and photographic follow-up performed. Although mentioned in the literature, this is the first clinical and pathological description of such disorder affecting an equine in Brazil.(AU)

Relata-se o primeiro caso de alopecia sazonal idiopática em um equino no Brasil, doença de etiologia desconhecida, caracterizada por processos alopécicos, nas regiões torácicas e abdominais laterais, de forma simétrica bilateralmente. Um equino mestiço, macho, de oito anos de idade, foi atendido sob queixa de perda dos pelos em regiões do tórax e do abdômen, simétrica bilateralmente, sem qualquer outro sinal clínico associado. As regiões alopécicas não apresentavam prurido, inflamação nem descamação. A avaliação histológica revelou, na epiderme, hiperplasia irregular, hiperpigmentação e ortoqueratose compacta, edema e infiltrado inflamatório. Os folículos pilosos estavam ativos e contendo hastes de pelos. O caso foi acompanhado com registros fotográficos durante dois anos consecutivos (2012 a 2014), com a queda do pelo acontecendo no final do outono e com retorno espontâneo em meados do verão. O diagnóstico baseou-se no histórico, na histopatologia e no acompanhamento fotográfico. Mesmo sendo mencionada na literatura, esta é a primeira descrição clínico-patológica de tal distúrbio acometendo um equino no Brasil.(AU)

Medidas lineares e angulares não influenciam o tipo de marcha em cavalos Campeiros / Linear and angular measures do not influence the type of march in Campeiro horses

A marcha é um andamento natural de algumas raças de equinos, o qual resulta de movimentos coordenados, e é o andamento característico dos cavalos Campeiros. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi determinar relações entre medidas lineares e angulares com o tipo de marcha dos cavalos da raça Campeiro. Foram avaliados 113 equinos adultos, sendo realizadas 12 medidas lineares e 11 angulares de cada animal. Para obtenção das medidas lineares, utilizou-se hipômetro e fita métrica, e, para as medidas angulares, artrogoniômetro e podogoniômetro. Para avaliar e classificar a marcha, os animais foram montados e filmados por vista lateral. Dos 113 animais, 36 (32%) apresentaram marcha incompleta, 74 (65%) marcha completa, e três (3%) a guinilha. Dos equinos com marcha completa, 20 (27%) apresentaram marcha batida, 14 (19%) marcha de centro e 40 (54%) marcha picada. Apenas a medida linear, altura da garupa, apresentou diferença entre os tipos de andamentos (P<0,011). Pode-se concluir que as medidas lineares e angulares dos equinos Campeiros apresentam valores similares entre as variações da marcha, demonstrando equivalente morfologia independentemente da categoria da marcha.(AU)

The march is a natural gait of some breeds of horses, which results from coordinated movements, and is the characteristic gait of Campeiro horses. The objective of this study was to determine relationships between linear and angular measures with the type of march of the Campeiro racehorses. A total of 113 adult horses were evaluated and 12 linear and 11 angular measurements of each animal were performed. To obtain the linear measurements, we used a hypometer and a tape measure and for the angular measurements, an arthrogoniometer and podogoniometer. To evaluate and classify the gait the animals were mounted and filmed by lateral view. Of the 113 animals, 36 (32%) had an incomplete gait, 74 (65%) had a complete gait and three (3%) had a guinilha gait. Of the horses with complete gait, 20 (27%) presented batida quick march, 14 (19%) a central march and 40 (54%) a split march. Only the linear measure, the height of the rump, presented difference between the types of movements (P< 0.011). It can be concluded that the linear and angular measurements of the Campeiro equines present similar values between the march variations, demonstrating morphological equivalent regardless of the march category.(AU)

Serum proteinogram of the Campeiro horse / Proteinograma sérico de equinos da raça Campeiro

The aim of this study to measure the fractions of the total serum proteins of the Campeiro horse and identify the influences of biological variants. Blood samples were taken in 138 horses of the breed Campeiro for measuring the concentration of total serum protein by the biuret method. Serum concentrations of protein fractions were measured by electrophoresis using agarose gel. Groups were formed according to age, sex and reproductive condition. The average values of serum fractions: albumin (2.85±0.36g/dl), alpha 1 (0.28±0.11g/dl), alpha 2 (0.26±0.08g/dL) beta 1 (0.57±0.15g/dl), beta 2 (0.89±0.28g/dL), gamaglobulinas (1.86±0.34g/dL), albumin/globulin ratio (0.75±0.18) and 2.5% percentile and 97.5% had slight differences in relation to the reference interval proposed for the species. They observed higher values of alpha 1 and 2 globulins in the group from that had six to eight years old and gammaglobulins in group above 13 years old. Serum protein concentrations were similar in horses and mares and between non-pregnant and pregnant. Sex and pregnancy status did not affect serum proteinogram. Alpha and gammaglobulins have higher values as the age increases. Serum proteinogram of Campeiro horses shows variations that have to be considered in the interpretation of laboratory tests.(AU)

Este trabalho tem por objetivo mensurar as frações das proteínas totais séricas de equinos Campeiros e identificar as influências de variantes biológicas. Foram colhidas amostras de sangue de 138 equinos, machos e fêmeas da raça Campeiro. A determinação da concentração de proteínas totais séricas foi realizada pelo método de biureto. As concentrações séricas das frações proteicas foram determinadas por eletroforese, utilizando-se gel de agarose. Formaram-se grupos em relação à idade, ao sexo e à condição reprodutiva. Os valores médios das frações séricas albumina (2,85±0,36g/dL), alfa 1 (0,28±0,11g/dL), alfa 2 (0,26±0,08g/dL), beta 1 (0,57±0,15g/dL), beta 2 (0,89±0,28g/dL), gamaglobulinas (1,86±0,34g/dL), relação albumina/globulina (0,75±0,18) e os percentis 2,5% e 97,5% apresentaram diferenças pontuais em relação aos intervalos propostos para a espécie. Observaram-se maiores valores de alfa 1, alfa 2 globulinas, no grupo de seis a oito anos, e de gamaglobulinas, no grupo acima de 13 anos de idade. O proteinograma sérico foi similar entre machos e fêmeas e entre fêmeas vazias e gestantes. Sexo e estado gestacional não afetaram o proteinograma sérico. Alfa e gamaglobulinas têm incrementos em função de idades crescentes. O proteinograma sérico de equinos Campeiros tem variações que devem ser consideradas em exames laboratoriais.(AU)

Chronic renal failure in equine due to ascending pyelonephritis predisposed by cauda equina syndrome: case report / Insuficiência renal crônica em equino devido à pielonefrite ascendente predisposta por síndrome da cauda equina: relato de caso

Descreve-se o caso de uma égua, da raça Campeiro, utilizada como doadora de embriões, que apresentava quadros de cistite recorrente e incontinência urinária. Os sinais clínicos evoluíram para emagrecimento progressivo, anorexia, apatia e isolamento do plantel. Ao exame físico, foi identificada hipotonia da cauda, hipoalgesia da região perineal, flacidez retal e vesical, compatíveis com sinais relacionados à síndrome da cauda equina. Exames complementares laboratoriais, exame ultrassonográfico e necropsia confirmaram o diagnóstico de insuficiência renal crônica (IRC), a qual foi atribuida à pielonefrite ascendente. O exame de urocultura demonstrou crescimento de bactérias do gêneroStreptococcus sp. Este é um caso raro em equinos em que a disfunção de neurônio motor inferior propiciou o desenvolvimento de processo infeccioso no trato urinário, progredindo para um quadro crônico renal incompatível com a vida.(AU)

Descreve-se o caso de uma égua, da raça Campeiro, utilizada como doadora de embriões, que apresentava quadros de cistite recorrente e incontinência urinária. Os sinais clínicos evoluíram para emagrecimento progressivo, anorexia, apatia e isolamento do plantel. Ao exame físico, foi identificada hipotonia da cauda, hipoalgesia da região perineal, flacidez retal e vesical, compatíveis com sinais relacionados à síndrome da cauda equina. Exames complementares laboratoriais, exame ultrassonográfico e necropsia confirmaram o diagnóstico de insuficiência renal crônica (IRC), a qual foi atribuida à pielonefrite ascendente. O exame de urocultura demonstrou crescimento de bactérias do gênero Streptococcus sp. Este é um caso raro em equinos em que a disfunção de neurônio motor inferior propiciou o desenvolvimento de processo infeccioso no trato urinário, progredindo para um quadro crônico renal incompatível com a vida.(AU)

Systemic toxic reaction due to multiple honeybee stings in equine: Case report / Reação tóxica sistêmica devido a múltiplas ferroadas de abelha em equino: relato de caso

Accidents caused by insects of the Hymenoptera are rarely described in large animals. The attacks caused by honeybee (Apis mellifera) may cause severe consequences and its intensity changes according to the number of stings. Local and systemic reactions can occur, including progression to death. This report describes a case of honeybee attack on an equine, which took place in the city of Lages, in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. In the clinical assessment the horse showed apathy, anorexia, head and pectoral edemas, dyspnea, icteric mucosa, increased mandibular lymph nodes and darkened urine. The blood count showed anemia and serum biochemical tests suggested, muscular and hepatic lesions. The urinalysis test indicated hemoglobinuria and increased clotting time. Treatment included lactate Ringer's solution fluid therapy, furosemide, promethazine, corticosteroids and 20% mannitol solution. Hot and cold compresses were applied alternately on areas with edema. There was a satisfactory response to treatment and the animal was discharged after 30 days in veterinary hospital. The description of honeybee sting accidents in large animals is important because of the evolution that can lead to death. The early approach associated with appropriate treatment, avoiding the worsening of the lesions is fundamental for the recovery of the patient.(AU)

Os acidentes causados por insetos da ordem Hymenoptera são raramente descritos em grandes animais. Os ataques provocados por abelhas (Apis mellifera) causam consequências graves, e sua intensidade varia de acordo com a quantidade de ferroadas. Reações locais a sistêmicas podem ocorrer, incluindo a evolução para a morte. Este relato descreve um caso de ataque por abelhas em equino, ocorrido no município de Lages, SC. No exame clínico, o equino apresentava apatia, anorexia, edema de cabeça e região peitoral, dispneia inspiratória, mucosas ictéricas, linfonodos mandibulares aumentados e urina de coloração marrom-escura. O hemograma evidenciou anemia hemolítica, e os exames de bioquímica sérica sugeriram lesão muscular e lesão hepática. A urinálise demonstrou hemoglobinúria, e o tempo de coagulação apresentava-se aumentado. Como tratamento, foram administrados solução de ringer com lactato, furosemida, prometazina, corticosteroides e solução de manitol a 20%. Compressas quentes e frias foram aplicadas alternadamente sobre as áreas de edema. Houve adequada resposta ao tratamento instituído e o animal recebeu alta hospitalar após 30 dias de internamento. A descrição de casos de acidentes por picadas de abelhas em grandes animais é importante devido à evolução, que pode levar à morte. A abordagem precoce associada ao tratamento adequado, evitando o agravamento das lesões, é fundamental para a recuperação do paciente.(AU)

Desenvolvimento e avaliação de equipamento de tração, para redução de fraturas de ossos longos de cães / Development and evaluation of a traction device for reducing long bone fractures in dogs

Fraturas costumam ocorrer com encavalgamento das extremidades ósseas, dificultando, assim, sua redução. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo desenvolver um equipamento de tração esquelética a ser utilizado em caninos acometidos de fraturas de ossos longos. Foram utilizados 21 cães de raças variadas, pesando entre dois e 27kg, com idade entre dois meses e 11 anos, com fraturas diafisárias ou metafisárias ocorridas entre três e 24 dias. Enquanto a fixação do corpo do paciente à mesa foi efetuada com cintas de náilon, a força de tração aplicada ao longo do eixo ósseo do membro fraturado foi realizada mediante cintas de náilon ou pinos transfixados e estribos (sendo os pinos implantados na epífise distal do osso fraturado), com a força de tração medida por um dinamômetro, não sendo aplicada carga maior que 25kg. Em todos os casos, a força de tração iniciava com o valor de cinco quilogramas, exceto em animais com peso inferior a esta, a qual começava com carga equivalente a esse peso; e em todos, se necessário, era aumentada a cada cinco minutos para se manter tração igual ao peso ou aos valores que oscilavam do seu peso até cinco quilogramas, dependendo do tamanho do animal, até se atingir a tração necessária para se proceder à redução. Para essa progressão de distensão, o equipamento possuía haste rosqueada de 25mm de diâmetro, uma porca com sistema timão e cilindro deslizante por fora da haste, este conectado ao animal por uma corrente, e o dinamômetro. Todos os animais tiveram as fraturas reduzidas sem haver perda óssea, o que evidencia que o aparelho se mostrou eficiente tanto na redução como na manutenção da redução da fratura, e eles não apresentaram, no pós-operatório, sinais de prejuízos neurológicos, vasculares, cutâneos e articulares. O distensor ósseo aqui desenvolvido tem como características: ser de simples confecção, ter baixo custo, não gerar danos ao paciente e facilitar a redução dos fragmentos tanto em fraturas recentes quanto em antigas.(AU)

Fractures usually occur with overriding of bone fragments, thus hindering fracture reduction. The aim of this research was to develop and test a skeletal traction device for use in dogs with long bone fractures. Twenty-one dogs were included, regardless of breed or gender, weighing between two and 27kg, and between two months and 11 years of age, with metaphyseal or diaphyseal fractures that had occurred between three and 24 days prior to intervention. While fixation of the patient's body to the table was performed using nylon straps, the traction force applied along the bone axis of the fractured limb was performed using nylon straps or transfixed pins and stirrups (with the pins implanted in the distal epiphysis of the fractured bone). Tensile strength was measured by a dynamometer, and the maximum load applied was no greater than 25kg. In all cases, the distraction force began at five kilograms except in dogs below this weight, where the starting load was equivalent to the weight of the animal. If necessary, in all dogs, force was increased every five minutes to maintain equal traction to the dog's weight or values which ranged from the dog's weight to five kilograms depending on the size of the animal, until the necessary traction for reduction was obtained. For this progression of distension, the equipment had a 25-milimeter-diameter threaded rod, a nut with a rudder system and sliding cylinder outside the rod, which connected to the dog via a chain and the dynamometer. Fracture reduction was achieved in all dogs without bone loss, and the device was shown to be efficient in both allowing and maintaining fracture reduction, with no neurologic, vascular, cutaneous, or articular damage. The developed bone distractor has the following characteristics: simple to construct, low cost, does not harm the patient, and facilitates reduction of the fragments in recent and old fractures.(AU)

Immunolocalization of proteins in the spermatogenesis process of canine.

Spermatogenesis is a process in which differentiated cells are produced and the adult stem cell population-known as spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs)-is continuously replenished. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes are not fully understood in the canine species. We addressed this in this study by analysing the expression of specific markers in spermatogonia of seminiferous tubules of canine testes. SSCs at different stages of reproductive development (prepubertal and adult) were examined by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. Glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor family receptor alpha-1 (GFRA1), deleted in azoospermia-like (DAZL) and promyelocytic leukaemia zinc finger (PLZF) were expressed in SSCs, while stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8 (STRA8) was detected only in undifferentiated spermatogonia in prepubertal testis and differentiated spermatogonia and spermatocytes in adult canine. Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4) showed an expression pattern, and the levels did not differ between the groups examined. However, C-kit expression varied as a function of reproductive developmental stage. Our results demonstrate that these proteins play critical roles in the self-renewal and differentiation of SSCs and can serve as markers to identify canine spermatogonia at specific stages of development.

Perfil bioquímico sérico de equinos clinicamente sadios da raça Campeiro / Serum biochemical profile from clinically healthy Campeiro horses

Amostras de sangue foram obtidas de 138 equinos registrados da raça Campeiro, com idade média de 9,7±5,4 anos, sendo 14 machos (10,15%) e 124 fêmeas (89,85%). Observaram-se valores médios da atividade sérica de GGT: 13,73±4,08 U/L; AST: 246,34±72,87U/L; ALT: 5,13±1,18U/L; FA: 284,32±53,33UI/L; CK: 132,54±72,25U/L; LDH: 511,38±143,65U/L; e das concentrações séricas de ureia: 38,65±12,62mg/dL e de creatinina: 1,24±0,24mg/dL. Os valores médios de AST, FA, ALT, ureia e creatinina foram semelhantes aos propostos na literatura para outras raças. Os valores de CK, GGT e LDH foram superiores aos comumente utilizados como referências. Não houve diferença nas concentrações de nenhum dos componentes séricos avaliados nas diferentes idades analisadas. Maiores valores médios nas concentrações de ureia e menores de creatinina foram observados nas fêmeas em relação aos machos, assim como a maior atividade sérica de FA em fêmeas gestantes em relação às éguas vazias. O perfil bioquímico sérico de equinos sadios da raça Campeiro apresenta variações peculiares que devem ser levadas em consideração na interpretação de exames laboratoriais.(AU)

Blood samples were obtained from 138 equines of the Campeiro breed with mean ages of 9.7±5.4 years, including 14 males (10.15%) and 124 mares (89.85%). Mean values of serum of GGT: 13.73 ± 4.08U/L; AST: 246.34±72.87U/L; ALT 5.13±1.18U/L; FA: 284.32±53.33IU/L; CK: 132.54±72.25U/L; LDH: 511.38±143.65U/L; and serum urea: 38.65±12.62mg/dL and creatinine: 1.24±0.24mg/dL were observed. The mean values of AST, FA, ALT, urea and creatinine were similar to those proposed in the literature for other breeds. The CK values, GGT, and LDH were higher than those commonly used as references. There was no difference in the concentrations of any of the serum components evaluated at different ages analyzed. Further average values in the lower urea concentrations and creatinine were observed in females compared to males, as well as the higher serum activity of FA in pregnant mares in relation to non-pregnant. Serum biochemical profile of healthy horses of the Campeiro breed presents peculiar variations that must be taken into consideration in the interpretation of laboratory tests.(AU)

Biometrics of hoof balance in equids / Biometria do equilíbrio podal de equídeos

Differences in hoof balance between horses, mules and donkeys were identified in order to form more specific considerations for proper management of the animals. Measurements of the natural dimensions of hooves in sixty animals were used: 20 horses from the Crioulo breed, 20 mules and 20 donkeys from the Pêga breed. Liveweight was estimated using the correlation equations in each species by heart girth. Using a caliper rule, tape measure and hoof gauge, measurements of the length and width of the frog, hoof height, angle of heel, medial and lateral dorsal length, angle of the toe and crown circumference of the hooves of forelimbs and hindlimb were taken. Within each group the hooves of the hindlimbs exhibited narrower measurements than the hooves of the forelimbs and no difference was observed between the hoof angle of both members of groups. The conformation of the hooves of donkeys is shown to be substantially different from that observed in horses, the mules being in an intermediate condition, being smaller, angled and robust frog and proportionally more developed. Similarly, the hooves of donkeys provide greater support area compared to mules and horses, in descending order, even being dimensionally smaller. We conclude that the hooves of horses, mules and donkeys, have specific patterns of geometric balance that must be taken into consideration at the time of trimming and imbalance inferences.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o equilíbrio dos cascos de equídeos. Foram utilizados 60 animais, sendo estes: 20 equinos da raça Crioula, 20 muares e 20 asininos da raça Pêga. O peso vivo foi estimado por meio de equações de correlação com o perímetro torácico específico a cada espécie. Utilizando-se paquímetro, fita métrica e podogoniômetro, foram mensurados comprimento e largura da ranilha e do casco, altura e ângulo dos talões medial e lateral, comprimento dorsal e ângulo da pinça e perímetro da banda coronária dos cascos dos membros torácicos e pélvicos. Dentro de cada grupo, observou-se que os cascos dos membros pélvicos exibem-se mais estreitos que os cascos dos membros torácicos, e não houve diferença entre o ângulo das pinças de ambos os grupos de membros. A conformação dos cascos dos asininos mostra-se substancialmente divergente do observado nos equinos, estando os muares numa condição intermediária, sendo aqueles menores, mais angulados e com ranilha robusta e proporcionalmente mais desenvolvida. Da mesma forma, os cascos dos asininos proporcionam maior área de apoio em relação aos muares e equinos, em ordem decrescente, mesmo sendo dimensionalmente menores. Conclui-se que os cascos de equinos, muares e asininos apresentam padrões de equilíbrio geométrico específicos, que devem ser levados em consideração no momento do casqueamento e na inferência de desequilíbrios.(AU)

Involvement of AOX and UCP pathways in the post-harvest ripening of papaya fruits.

Enhanced respiration during ripening in climacteric fruits is sometimes associated with an uncoupling between the ATP synthesis and the mitochondrial electron transport chain. While the participation of two energy-dissipating systems, one of which is mediated by the alternative oxidase (AOX) and the other mediated by the uncoupling protein (UCP), has been linked to fruit ripening, the relation between the activation of both mitochondrial uncoupling systems with the transient increase of ethylene synthesis (ethylene peak) remains unclear. To elucidate this question, ethylene emission and the two uncoupling (AOX and UCP) pathways were monitored in harvested papaya fruit during the ripening, from green to fully yellow skin. The results confirmed the typical climacteric behavior for papaya fruit: an initial increase in endogenous ethylene emission which reaches a maximum (peak) in the intermediate ripening stage, before finally declining to a basal level in ripe fruit. Respiration of intact fruit also increased and achieved higher levels at the end of ripening. On the other hand, in purified mitochondria extracted from fruit pulp the total respiration and respiratory control decrease while an increase in the participation of AOX and UCP pathways was markedly evident during papaya ripening. There was an increase in the AOX capacity during the transition from green fruit to the intermediate stage that accompanied the transient ethylene peak, while the O2 consumption triggered by UCP activation increased by 80% from the beginning to end stage of fruit ripening. Expression analyses of AOX (AOX1 and 2) and UCP (UCP1-5) genes revealed that the increases in the AOX and UCP capacities were linked to a higher expression of AOX1 and UCP (mainly UCP1) genes, respectively. In silico promoter analyses of both genes showed the presence of ethylene-responsive cis-elements in UCP1 and UCP2 genes. Overall, the data suggest a differential activation of AOX and UCP pathways in regulation related to the ethylene peak and induction of specific genes such as AOX1 and UCP1.

Isolation and characterization of mesenchymal stem cells from the yolk sacs of bovine embryos.

The yolk sac (YS) represents a promising source of stem cells for research because of the hematopoietic and mesenchymal cell niches that are present in this structure during the development of the embryo. In this study, we report on the isolation and characterization of YS tissue and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bovine YSs. Our results show that the YS is macroscopically located in the exocoelomic cavity in the ventral portion of the embryo and consists of a transparent membrane formed by a central sac-like portion and two ventrally elongated projections. Immunohistochemistry analyses were positive for OCT4, CD90, CD105, and CD44 markers in the YS of both gestational age groups. The MSCs of bovine YS were isolated using enzymatic digestion and were grown in vitro for at least 11 passages to verify their capacity to proliferate. These cells were also subjected to immunophenotypic characterization that revealed the presence of CD90, CD105, and CD79 and the absence of CD45, CD44, and CD79, which are positive and negative markers of MSCs, respectively. To prove their multipotency, the cells were induced to differentiate into three cell types, chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and adipocytes, which were stained with tissue-specific dyes (chondrogenic: Alcian Blue, osteogenic: Alizarin Red, and adipogenic: Oil Red O) to confirm differentiation. Gene expression analyses showed no differences in the patterns of gene expression between the groups or passages tested, with the exception of the expression of SOX2, which was slightly different in the G1P3 group compared to the other groups. Our results suggest that YS tissue from bovines can be used as a source of MSCs, which makes YS tissue-derived cells an interesting option for cell therapy and regenerative medicine.

Comparative Development of Embryonic Age by Organogenesis in Domestic Dogs and Cats.

The precise determination of the embryonic chronology is very important in reproductive biotechnologies, especially in estimating embryonic age. Thus, there is a need for greater knowledge and standardization for determining the chronology of embryonic development and functional morphology. We describe aspects of embryonic development in two domestic carnivores to add knowledge about organ peculiarities and for application in veterinary practice, in prenatal development and in the biotechnology fields. We found that the development of differential characteristics of embryonic organs occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy for both species. Thus, using the combination of the crown-rump length, macroscopic analysis and optical microscopy, it is possible to predict gestational age more precisely in animals that lack a defined breed and establish an embryonic pattern.

Huntington disease and Huntington disease-like in a case series from Brazil.

The aim of this study was to identify the relative frequency of Huntington's disease (HD) and HD-like (HDL) disorders HDL1, HDL2, spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2), SCA17, dentatorubral-pallidoluysian degeneration (DRPLA), benign hereditary chorea, neuroferritinopathy and chorea-acanthocytosis (CHAC), in a series of Brazilian families. Patients were recruited in seven centers if they or their relatives presented at least chorea, besides other findings. Molecular studies of HTT, ATXN2, TBP, ATN1, JPH3, FTL, NKX2-1/TITF1 and VPS13A genes were performed. A total of 104 families were ascertained from 2001 to 2012: 71 families from South, 25 from Southeast and 8 from Northeast Brazil. There were 93 HD, 4 HDL2 and 1 SCA2 families. Eleven of 104 index cases did not have a family history: 10 with HD. Clinical characteristics were similar between HD and non-HD cases. In HD, the median expanded (CAG)n (range) was 44 (40-81) units; R(2) between expanded HTT and age-at-onset (AO) was 0.55 (p=0.0001, Pearson). HDL2 was found in Rio de Janeiro (2 of 9 families) and Rio Grande do Sul states (2 of 68 families). We detected HD in 89.4%, HDL2 in 3.8% and SCA2 in 1% of 104 Brazilian families. There were no cases of HDL1, SCA17, DRPLA, neuroferritinopathy, benign hereditary chorea or CHAC. Only six families (5.8%) remained without diagnosis.

Effects of temporary calf removal and eCG on pregnancy rates to timed-insemination in progesterone-treated postpartum Nellore cows.

The objective was to evaluate the effects of temporary calf removal (TCR), eCG administration, or both, in a progesterone-based protocol. Suckled Nellore cows (40-80 d postpartum, n=443) with body condition scores from 2.0 to 3.5 (5-point scale) on three farms were all given a synchronizing protocol (PEPE). At the start (designated Day 0), cows were given an intravaginal device (1.0 g of progesterone) and 2.5mg of estradiol benzoate (EB) im. On Day 8, the device was removed and cows were given PGF(2 alpha) (150 microg of D-cloprostenol im), followed in 24h by 1.0mg EB im, and 30-36 h thereafter, fixed-time AI. The design was a 2 x 2 factorial; main effects were TCR (54-60 h; from device removal to FTAI) and eCG treatment (300 IU im, concurrent with PGF(2 alpha)). Transrectal ultrasonography was done on Days -10 and 0 to detect anestrus (absence of a CL at both examinations) and approximately 30 d after FTAI (pregnancy diagnosis). Data were analyzed by logistic regression. The following variables did not significantly affect pregnancy rates: farm, postpartum interval, cyclicity, inseminators, and semen (sire). Overall, 77% of the cows were deemed anestrus. Pregnancy rates were similar (P>0.05) among treatment groups: Control (54/108=50.0%), TCR (44/106=41.5%), eCG (63/116=54.3%), and TCR+eCG (49/113=43.4%). Pregnancy rate was higher in multiparous than primiparous cows (186/360, 51.7% vs. 24/83, 28.9%, P<0.01), but was not significantly affected by cyclicity status or body condition score. In conclusion, temporary calf removal, eCG, or both, did not significantly increase pregnancy rate to timed-insemination in a progesterone-based synchronization protocol in postpartum Nellore cows with acceptable body condition.

Isolation of a trypsin inhibitor from Echinodorus paniculatus seeds by affinity chromatography on immobilized Cratylia mollis isolectins.

A highly purified trypsin inhibitor was obtained from Echinodorus paniculatus when an extract prepared from E. paniculatus seed flour (25 gl(-1), with 0.1 M ammonium acetate buffer, pH 8.3, under agitation for 6 min at 28 degrees C) was chromatographed on Sephadex G-25 (12 mlh(-1)), followed by affinity chromatography on immobilized Cratylia mollis isolectins (Cra Iso 1,2,3-Sepharose). The column chromatography was performed at 24 degrees C; the matrix was washed (30 mlh(-1)) with 0.1 M sodium phosphate buffer, pH 7.4 or with the same buffer containing 0.2 M glucose, followed by application of inhibitor sample and elution with 0.015 M sodium borate buffer, pH 7.4, or 1.0 M NaCl. A purified fraction of inhibitor was obtained by gel filtration chromatography (GF-450/HPLC column). Trypsin inhibitory activity was eliminated when the inhibitor was treated with metaperiodate showing that the carbohydrate moiety was important for trypsin inhibition. Binding of inhibitor was also evaluated on immobilized concanavalin A (Con A-Sepharose) using previously described chromatographic conditions with results similar to Cra Iso 1,2,3-Sepharose chromatography.

[Changes in ultra rapid urease test and histopathological examination for Helicobacter pylori by antisecretory drugs]. / Alterações no teste ultra-rápido da urease e no exame anatomopatológico para Helicobacter pylori induzidas por drogas anti-secretoras.

BACKGROUND: One of the major problems when evaluating dyspeptic patients at public hospitals is the large interval between the consultation and the endoscopy, leading to the prescription of antisecretory drugs, what can be responsible for false results on examinations. AIM: To evaluate changes in ultrarapid urease test and histopathological examination for Helicobacter pylori by antisecretory drugs. METHODS: In a prospective double-blind study, 50 patients with dyspeptic complaints and endoscopic diagnosis of peptic ulcer, erosive gastritis, esophagitis or duodenitis with a positive urease test, were randomized to a 7-day course of treatment with either omeprazole 20 mg or ranitidine 300 mg a day. Before and after treatment, two biopsy specimens each were obtained from the antrum and corpus and an ultrarapid urease test and a histopathological examination for Helicobacter pylori were performed. RESULTS: There were no significant changes in the results of ultrarapid urease test and histopathological examination for Helicobacter pylori after treatment with ranitidine. With omeprazole, we observed a decrease in positive results in ultrarapid urease test and histopathological examination for Helicobacter pylori in the antrum, but not in the corpus. CONCLUSION: Omeprazole, used for 7 days can lead to negative results in ultrarapid urease test and histopathological examination for Helicobacter pylori in the antrum, and should not be employed in patients before the endoscopy is performed.

[Hereditary hemochromatosis. Case report and review of the literature]. / Hemocromatose hereditária. Relato de caso e revisão da literatura.

BACKGROUND: HFE-associated hemochromatosis is one of the most common inherited liver disease in Caucasian populations and refers to the association of increased iron stores with tissue damage (e.g., cirrhosis, diabetes, cardiomyopathy), which is progressive when diagnosis and treatment are delayed. AIMS: Description of a case of hereditary hemochromatosis in an asymptomatic 44-years-old patient, whose diagnosis was made through casual identification of abnormal iron markers. We will also present a brief review of the literature about the topic. CONCLUSIONS: Hereditary hemochromatosis is an ideal disease for primary prevention since the disease can be detected well before serious complications develop. This intervention has been shown to prevent the manifestations of the disease, altering its natural history.