Intrauterine growth restriction: screening and diagnosis using animal models

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a serious condition of multifactorial origin, mainly caused by maternal malnutrition, multiple gestation associated with nutrient competition, abuse of nocive substances and infections. The diagnosis of such syndrome is complex, as its own manifestations can mask its occurrence, requiring a thorough assessment of body weight and size. Moreover, it is not responsive to any kind of treatment. There is evidence that IUGR may predispose the individual to several pathologies, such as diabetes, hypertension and metabolic syndrome in adulthood, and it has also been linked to thrifty phenotype hypothesis. Thus, a healthy lifestyle is needed to better prevent those pathologies. Given the world high prevalence and importance of IUGR, mainly in developing countries, this review is focused on discussing how different animal models contribute to the biological screening and diagnosis of this condition.

Intrauterine growth restriction: screening and diagnosis using animal models

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a serious condition of multifactorial origin, mainly caused by maternal malnutrition, multiple gestation associated with nutrient competition, abuse of nocive substances and infections. The diagnosis of such syndrome is complex, as its own manifestations can mask its occurrence, requiring a thorough assessment of body weight and size. Moreover, it is not responsive to any kind of treatment. There is evidence that IUGR may predispose the individual to several pathologies, such as diabetes, hypertension and metabolic syndrome in adulthood, and it has also been linked to thrifty phenotype hypothesis. Thus, a healthy lifestyle is needed to better prevent those pathologies. Given the world high prevalence and importance of IUGR, mainly in developing countries, this review is focused on discussing how different animal models contribute to the biological screening and diagnosis of this condition.(AU)

Characterization of the development of foals in natural mating and embryo transfer

Background: Several reproductive biotechnologies are used in horses and embryo transfer (ET) is one of the most frequent in countries like Brazil and the USA. It has been shown that animals originated by new reproductive technology can have compromised growth in extreme conditions, however there are still only a few researches on the influence of embryo transfer over lactating foals under different raising methods. Due to the lack of studies on ET products development and the need to understand the process and its relate with lactating foals growth, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the embryo transfer and natural mate over the newborn foals. Materials, Methods & Results: From a group of 20 mares, 20 Quarter Horse lactating foals were used (10 natural matting + 10 embryo transfer). The mares werent given any concentrate feed during whole gestation and lactation. Foals were kept with the mare, however was used creep feeding to give commercial feed ad libitum. The foals biometric evaluation were made at the day of birth (day 0) and at 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th and 150th day (weaning) for the following parameters: body mass (BM), height at the withers (H), heart girth (HG), cannon bone girth (CBG) and fat mass percentage (FMP). The fat thickness percentage at rump it was determined by ultrasound device. All statistics were considered significant when a [...](AU)

Characterization of the development of foals in natural mating and embryo transfer

Background: Several reproductive biotechnologies are used in horses and embryo transfer (ET) is one of the most frequent in countries like Brazil and the USA. It has been shown that animals originated by new reproductive technology can have compromised growth in extreme conditions, however there are still only a few researches on the influence of embryo transfer over lactating foals under different raising methods. Due to the lack of studies on ET products development and the need to understand the process and its relate with lactating foals growth, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the embryo transfer and natural mate over the newborn foals. Materials, Methods & Results: From a group of 20 mares, 20 Quarter Horse lactating foals were used (10 natural matting + 10 embryo transfer). The mares werent given any concentrate feed during whole gestation and lactation. Foals were kept with the mare, however was used creep feeding to give commercial feed ad libitum. The foals biometric evaluation were made at the day of birth (day 0) and at 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th and 150th day (weaning) for the following parameters: body mass (BM), height at the withers (H), heart girth (HG), cannon bone girth (CBG) and fat mass percentage (FMP). The fat thickness percentage at rump it was determined by ultrasound device. All statistics were considered significant when a [...]

Characterization of the Development of Foals in Natural Mating and Embryo Transfer

Background: Several reproductive biotechnologies are used in horses and embryo transfer (ET) is one of the most frequent in countries like Brazil and the USA. It has been shown that animals originated by new reproductive technology can have compromised growth in extreme conditions, however there are still only a few researches on the influence of embryo transfer over lactating foals under different raising methods. Due to the lack of studies on ET products development and the need to understand the process and its relate with lactating foals growth, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the embryo transfer and natural mate over the newborn foals.Materials, Methods & Results: From a group of 20 mares, 20 Quarter Horse lactating foals were used (10 natural matting + 10 embryo transfer). The mares werent given any concentrate feed during whole gestation and lactation. Foals were kept with the mare, however was used creep feeding to give commercial feed ad libitum. The foals biometric evaluation were made at the day of birth (day 0) and at 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th and 150th day (weaning) for the following parameters: body mass (BM), height at the withers (H), heart girth (HG), cannon bone girth (CBG) and fat mass percentage (FMP). The fat thickness percentage at rump it was determined by ultrasound device. All statistics were considered significant when a P &

Morphological features of the uterus during postnatal development in the West African Dwarf goat (Capra hircus)

The knowledge of the age at which the West African Dwarf (WAD) goat attains puberty could be exploited to improve this breed of goat and intensify production. The objective of this study was to highlight the postnatal developmental morphology of the uterine tissues of the WAD goat from birth to 28 weeks of age. Fifty WAD goat kids were obtained and grouped into 10 groups of 5 goats per group from day old to week 28. The uterine tissues of euthanized goats were dissected out and examined grossly. Thereafter fixed uterine tissues were prepared for light microscopy and stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Histological images of the uterine tissues were captured with a moticam camera. The length and weight of the uterine horns increased significantly (P < 0.05) from birth to week 28 respectively. The uterine horn was shaped like a ram’s horn. Internally, caruncles were prominent at birth and were regularly arranged in the uterine horn but irregularly arranged in the uterine body. Caruncles were absent in the cranial one third of the uterine horns. Histologically, the uterine horn and uterine body were similar. The endometrium was very cellular at birth without any form of glandular development, while the myometrium and the stratum vasculare were ill defined. Endometrial glands were first observed at week 1. The pseudostratified columnar epithelium of the mucosa at birth changed to simple columnar by week 12. The endometrium and the myometrium were well developed by week 12. In conclusion, the uterus of WAD goat at week 12 appeared similar to the uterus of an adult WAD goat indicating that this goat probably attains puberty earlier than the five - seven months previously reported.

Morphological features of the uterus during postnatal development in the West African Dwarf goat (Capra hircus)

The knowledge of the age at which the West African Dwarf (WAD) goat attains puberty could be exploited to improve this breed of goat and intensify production. The objective of this study was to highlight the postnatal developmental morphology of the uterine tissues of the WAD goat from birth to 28 weeks of age. Fifty WAD goat kids were obtained and grouped into 10 groups of 5 goats per group from day old to week 28. The uterine tissues of euthanized goats were dissected out and examined grossly. Thereafter fixed uterine tissues were prepared for light microscopy and stained with haematoxylin and eosin. Histological images of the uterine tissues were captured with a moticam camera. The length and weight of the uterine horns increased significantly (P < 0.05) from birth to week 28 respectively. The uterine horn was shaped like a rams horn. Internally, caruncles were prominent at birth and were regularly arranged in the uterine horn but irregularly arranged in the uterine body. Caruncles were absent in the cranial one third of the uterine horns. Histologically, the uterine horn and uterine body were similar. The endometrium was very cellular at birth without any form of glandular development, while the myometrium and the stratum vasculare were ill defined. Endometrial glands were first observed at week 1. The pseudostratified columnar epithelium of the mucosa at birth changed to simple columnar by week 12. The endometrium and the myometrium were well developed by week 12. In conclusion, the uterus of WAD goat at week 12 appeared similar to the uterus of an adult WAD goat indicating that this goat probably attains puberty earlier than the five - seven months previously reported.(AU)

Desenvolvimento Físico e Neurocomportamental de Prole de Ratas Wistar após Tratamento com Ipriflavona durante a Lactação Plena / Physical and neurobehavioral development of rat offspring after maternal exposure to ipriflavoneduring lactation

A Ipriflavona (7-isopropoxi-3-fenil-4H-benzopiran-4-ona), um derivado sintético da isoflavona daidzeína, com ação estrogênica comprovada tem sido utilizado por mulheres com objetivo de aumentar a densidade óssea e prevenir a perda óssea. Estudos de toxicologia reprodutiva no período pré-implantacional apontam indícios de toxicidade, interferindo na implantação do blastocisto. Também foi demonstrado que a ipriflavona interfere na via de sinalização Hedgehog, importante no período de desenvolvimento embrionário. Estudos demonstram que as isoflavonas são transferidas para o leite materno o que poderia ocasionar danos a prole. Porém não foram encontrados estudos de toxicologia no período de lactação e desenvolvimento das crias utilizando-se da ipriflavona, sendo este o objetivo desse trabalho. Para o estudo foram utilizadas 48 ratas Wistar. Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos experimentais (n = 12): controle experimental e tratados I, II e III. O grupo controle experimental recebeu via intragástrica, duas vezes ao dia, do 2º ao 16º dia de lactação, 1 ml de água destilada e os grupos tratados receberam; pelo mesmo procedimento, 1 ml de suspensão aquosa de ipriflavona nas doses de 300, 1500 e 3000mg/kg/dose, respectivamente. As variáveis maternas analisadas foram: presença de sinais clínicos de toxicidade; ganho de peso corporal e consumo de ração. Foram observados comportamentos maternais como: postura de amamentação, organização e manutenção do ninho, ato de recuperar, recolher filhotes e lambê-los. Os filhotes foram analisados quanto ao desenvolvimento físico e reflexológico. Como variáveis de desenvolvimento físico foram analisados: peso corporal, abertura dos olhos, desdobramento das orelhas, aparecimento de lanugo e pêlos, erupção dos incisivos superiores e inferiores, a abertura vaginal ou descida dos testículos...(AU)

The Ipriflavone (7-isopropoxy-3-phenyl-4H-benzopyran-4-one), a synthetic derivative of the isoflavone daidzein, with proven estrogenic activity has been used by women in order to increase bone density and prevent bone loss. Reproductive toxicology studies in the pre-implantation show signs of toxicity, which interferes with implantation of the blastocyst. It was also shown that ipriflavone affects the Hedgehog signaling pathway, important during embryonic development. Studies show that isoflavones are transferred to breast milk which can cause damage to offspring. However no studies were found in toxicology during lactation and development of offspring using the ipriflavone, which is the aim of this work. For the study were used 48 female rats. The animals were randomly divided into four groups (n = 12) experimental control and treated I, II and III. The experimental control group received intragastrically, twice a day, from the 2nd to the 16th days of lactation, 1 ml of distilled water and the treated groups received, by the same procedure, 1 ml of water suspension of ipriflavone at doses of 300, 1500 and 3000mg / kg / dose, respectively. Maternal variables were analyzed: presence of clinical signs of toxicity, body weight gain and feed intake. Maternal behaviors were observed as: breastfeeding posture, organization and maintenance of the nest, the act of recovering, collect pups and licking them. The pups were assessed for physical development and reflexology. As physical variables were analyzed: body weight, eye opening, unfolding of the ears, and appearance of lanugo hair, eruption of upper and lower incisors, the vaginal opening or descent of the testicles. For observing the reflexology development were made the following tests: grip, posture response, dodging the abyss, orientation, and negative geotaxis. In the experimental model studied ipriflavone showed no signs of maternal toxicity, or changes in the physical and reflexology development of offspring.(AU)

Desenvolvimento Físico e Neurocomportamental de Prole de Ratas Wistar após Tratamento com Ipriflavona durante a Lactação Plena / Physical and neurobehavioral development of rat offspring after maternal exposure to ipriflavoneduring lactation

A Ipriflavona (7-isopropoxi-3-fenil-4H-benzopiran-4-ona), um derivado sintético da isoflavona daidzeína, com ação estrogênica comprovada tem sido utilizado por mulheres com objetivo de aumentar a densidade óssea e prevenir a perda óssea. Estudos de toxicologia reprodutiva no período pré-implantacional apontam indícios de toxicidade, interferindo na implantação do blastocisto. Também foi demonstrado que a ipriflavona interfere na via de sinalização Hedgehog, importante no período de desenvolvimento embrionário. Estudos demonstram que as isoflavonas são transferidas para o leite materno o que poderia ocasionar danos a prole. Porém não foram encontrados estudos de toxicologia no período de lactação e desenvolvimento das crias utilizando-se da ipriflavona, sendo este o objetivo desse trabalho. Para o estudo foram utilizadas 48 ratas Wistar. Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos experimentais (n = 12): controle experimental e tratados I, II e III. O grupo controle experimental recebeu via intragástrica, duas vezes ao dia, do 2º ao 16º dia de lactação, 1 ml de água destilada e os grupos tratados receberam; pelo mesmo procedimento, 1 ml de suspensão aquosa de ipriflavona nas doses de 300, 1500 e 3000mg/kg/dose, respectivamente. As variáveis maternas analisadas foram: presença de sinais clínicos de toxicidade; ganho de peso corporal e consumo de ração. Foram observados comportamentos maternais como: postura de amamentação, organização e manutenção do ninho, ato de recuperar, recolher filhotes e lambê-los. Os filhotes foram analisados quanto ao desenvolvimento físico e reflexológico. Como variáveis de desenvolvimento físico foram analisados: peso corporal, abertura dos olhos, desdobramento das orelhas, aparecimento de lanugo e pêlos, erupção dos incisivos superiores e inferiores, a abertura vaginal ou descida dos testículos...

The Ipriflavone (7-isopropoxy-3-phenyl-4H-benzopyran-4-one), a synthetic derivative of the isoflavone daidzein, with proven estrogenic activity has been used by women in order to increase bone density and prevent bone loss. Reproductive toxicology studies in the pre-implantation show signs of toxicity, which interferes with implantation of the blastocyst. It was also shown that ipriflavone affects the Hedgehog signaling pathway, important during embryonic development. Studies show that isoflavones are transferred to breast milk which can cause damage to offspring. However no studies were found in toxicology during lactation and development of offspring using the ipriflavone, which is the aim of this work. For the study were used 48 female rats. The animals were randomly divided into four groups (n = 12) experimental control and treated I, II and III. The experimental control group received intragastrically, twice a day, from the 2nd to the 16th days of lactation, 1 ml of distilled water and the treated groups received, by the same procedure, 1 ml of water suspension of ipriflavone at doses of 300, 1500 and 3000mg / kg / dose, respectively. Maternal variables were analyzed: presence of clinical signs of toxicity, body weight gain and feed intake. Maternal behaviors were observed as: breastfeeding posture, organization and maintenance of the nest, the act of recovering, collect pups and licking them. The pups were assessed for physical development and reflexology. As physical variables were analyzed: body weight, eye opening, unfolding of the ears, and appearance of lanugo hair, eruption of upper and lower incisors, the vaginal opening or descent of the testicles. For observing the reflexology development were made the following tests: grip, posture response, dodging the abyss, orientation, and negative geotaxis. In the experimental model studied ipriflavone showed no signs of maternal toxicity, or changes in the physical and reflexology development of offspring.

MODELO DE HIPERNUTRIÇÃO NEONATAL INDUZ SOBREPESO, COMPORTAMENTO TIPO-DEPRESSIVO E AUMENTA OS NÍVEIS SÉRICOS DE IL-1 NA IDADE PRÉ-PÚBERE DE RATOS

O crescente aumento do sobrepeso e obesidade é um evento epidêmico global, acometendo principalmente crianças, e tem-se como um dos maiores desafios de saúde pública do século 21. Durante o desenvolvimento, a plasticidade do seu organismo é alta e intervenções nesse período podem ter efeitos permanentes. Nesse sentido, a dieta na infância é um fator que pode modificar diferentes aspectos do desenvolvimento. Logo, a observação de sinais precoces advindos dessas alterações pode contribuir para o conhecimento de prejuízos em períodos mais tardios da vida. Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho pauta-se em estudar os efeitos da hipernutrição neonatal em um modelo de redução da ninhada, no desenvolvimento, comportamento e em parâmetros bioquímicos e morfológicos da prole masculina de ratas na idade pré-púbere. Para isso, as ninhadas do grupo experimental, denominado grupo hipernutrição (GH) foram reduzidas a 4 animais (3 machos e 1 fêmea) para induzir a hipernutrição e as ninhadas do grupo controle (GC) foram padronizadas com 8 animais (4 machos e 4 fêmeas). Durante a lactação, nos dias pós-natais (DPNs) 5 a 7, avaliou-se o comportamento maternal. Em relação aos filhotes, observou-se o ganho de massa corporal e o desenvolvimento físico, reflexológico e motor. No desmame (DPN 21), notou-se a atividade geral em campo aberto das progenitoras e dos filhotes e coletou-se o sangue das mães para avaliação dos níveis séricos de corticosterona e do hormônio adrenocorticotrófico (ACTH). No DPN 31, avaliou-se os filhotes na atividade geral em campo aberto, no teste de transição claro-escuro e no teste de natação forçada. Ao término das avaliações comportamentais, retirou-se e pesou-se as gorduras omental, retroperitoneal e epidídimal e o sangue coletado para avaliação dos níveis de citocinas, corticosterona e do hormônio adrenocorticotrófico (ACTH). Os resultados mostraram que nas progenitoras do grupo GH: 1) o comportamento maternal ligado ao cuidado da prole não foi modificado; 2) ocorreu aumento do tempo gasto na autolimpeza; 3) não houve alteração na atividade geral e 4) não houve alteração dos níveis séricos de citocinas, corticosterona e ACTH. Nas proles do grupo GH observou-se: 1) maior ganho de peso nos DPNs 21 e 31; 2) não se observou diferenças no índice de Lee e no índice de massa corporal; 3) não houve diferenças significantes no desenvolvimento físico e reflexológico; 4) no desenvolvimento motor, houve adiantamento no dia de andar adulto; 5) na atividade geral em campo aberto observada no DPN 21, houve maior frequência de locomoção sem alterações na frequência de levantar-se e na duração de imobilidade; 6) não foram observadas diferenças significantes na atividade geral em campo aberto no DPN 31; 7) não houve alteração no comportamento no teste de transição claro-escuro; 8) ocorreu menor latência para primeira imobilidade e maior tempo de imobilidade no teste de natação forçada; 9) houve maior peso das gorduras omental, retroperitoneal e epidídimal; 10) notou-se aumento dos níveis séricos de IL1-, sem alterações nos níveis de IL1-, IL-6, TNF-; 11) ocorreu redução dos níveis de corticosterona sem alterações nos níveis de ACTH. Em conjunto, estes dados indicam que a hiperalimentação neonatal propiciada pela redução da ninhada promoveu, na idade pré-púbere dos animais, aumento da adiposidade e da atividade exploratória, sinais de inflamação periférica e comportamento tipo-depressivo.

The growing increase in overweight and obesity is considered a global epidemic event, especially among children, and is regarded as one of the greatest public health challenges of the 21st century. During development, body plasticity is high and interventions during this period can have permanent effects. In this sense, diet in childhood is a factor that can modify different aspects of development. Therefore, the observation of early signs of these modifications can contribute to the knowledge of losses in later periods of life. Thus, the objective of this research was to study the effects of neonatal hypernutrition on a model of litter reduction, development, behavior, and biochemical and morphological parameters of male rats in prepubertal age. To this end, the litters of the experimental group, designated as hypernutrition group (GH) were reduced to 4 animals (3 males and 1 female) to induce hypernutrition and the control group (GC) litters were standardized with 8 animals (4 males and 4 females). During lactation, in the postnatal days (PNDs) 5 to 7, maternal behavior was evaluated. In relation to the offspring, body mass gain and physical, reflexological and motor development were observed. At weaning (PND 21), the general open field activity of the progenitors and offspring was observed and the blood of the mothers was collected to assess serum corticosterone levels and adrenocorticotrotrophic hormone (ACTH). In PND 31, the puppies were evaluated in the general open field activity, in the light-dark transition test and in the forced swimming test. At the end of the behavioral evaluations the omental, retroperitoneal and epididymal fats were removed and weighed, as well as the blood collected for assessment of cytokines, corticosterone and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) levels. The results showed that in the progenitors of the GH group: 1) the maternal behavior related to the care of the offspring was not modified; 2) there was an increase in the time spent on self-grooming; 3) there was no change in the general activity and 4) there was no change in the serum levels of cytokines, corticosterone and ACTH levels. In the offspring of the GH group it was observed: 1) greater weight gain in PND 21 and 31; 2) no differences in Lee's index and body mass index were observed; 3) no significant differences in physical and reflexological development; 4) regarding motor development, there was an advance in adult walking day; 5) in the general open field activity observed in PND 21, there was a increased frequency of locomotion without changes in lifting frequency and immobility duration; 6) no significant differences were observed in the general open-field activity at PND 31; 7) there was no change in behavior in the light-dark transition test; 8) lower latency for first immobility and longer immobility in the forced swimming test was observed; 9) higher weight of omental, retroperitoneal and epididymal fats; 10) increased serum levels of IL1-, without changes in levels of IL1-, IL-6, TNF-; 11) reduction of corticosterone levels without changes in ACTH levels. Together, these data indicate that the neonatal hyperalimentation induced by the reduction of the litter size promoted, in the pre-pubertal age of the animals, increased adiposity and exploratory activity, signs of peripheral inflammation and depressed-type behavior.

MORFOLOGIA DAS GLÂNDULAS SALIVARES MAIORES EM CATETOS (Pecari tajacu Linnaeus, 1758)

Os porcos selvagens americanos são endêmicos das Américas e desempenham importante papel ecológico e alimentar, no entanto, as características morfológicas de suas glândulas salivares maiores não foram elucidadas, sabendo dessa lacuna, esse trabalho objetivou estudar as glândulas salivares maiores em catetos. As glândulas foram analisadas macroscopicamente, morfometricamente (peso, comprimento, espessura e largura) e por meio de microscopia de luz e eletrônica. A microscopia de luz seguiu metodologia para caracterização histoquímica dos grânulos de secreção e também de técnicas de imunohistoquímica para caracterização dos carboidratos de membrana. A avaliação metodológica foi feita em machos e fêmeas, em animais com idades variadas. Macroscopicamente, os catetos possuem três pares de glândulas salivares maiores, a parótida, mandibular e a sublingual, essa última dividida em duas porções, a polistomática e a monostomática. A parótida é a maior das glândulas observadas, enquanto a porção monostomática da glândula sublingual é a menor. A parótida está localizada próxima a orelha, recobre toda a mandibular e possui forma triangular. Os parâmetros morfométricos da parótida aumentaram conforme o animal envelhecia. A mandibular é oval e está no ângulo da mandíbula. O peso da glândula mandibular diminuiu ao longo do avanço da idade do animal, enquanto os demais parâmetros morfométricos aumentaram. A sublingual polistomática está no assoalho da cavidade oral, enquanto a monostomática está na porção ventral da glândula mandibular. Morfometricamente as sublinguais aumentaram conforme o animal envelhecia. A parótida é uma glândula serosa, no entanto, animais jovens sintetizaram mucinas neutras em pequenas quantidades, essa atividade cessa em animais adultos. As mandibulares são mucosas e sintetizam mucinas neutras e ácidas em pequenas quantidades. As sublinguais são mucosas e sintetizam mucinas ácidas e neutras em grandes quantidades. A microscopia eletrônica revelou que os ácinos eram globosos, dispostos em forma de cacho de uvas, aderidos uns aos outros por meio de uma malha de fibras colágenas. Os ductos estavam em íntima relação com os ácinos. A ultraestrutura da glândula parótida revelou a presença de ácinos estritamente serosos. Os grânulos sintetizados por essas células são muito eletrondensos. As glândulas mandibulares são mucosas. Suas células apresentam inúmeros grânulos eletronlucentes. A glândula sublingual é estritamente mucosas, com grânulos, em sua maioria, eletronlucentes.

The Americans wild pigs are endemics to the Americas and execition an important ecological and nutritional role; however, the morphological characteristics of their large salivary glands have not been elucidated, knowing this gap, this work aimed to study the large salivary glands in collared peccaries. The glands were analyzed macroscopically, morphometrically (weight, length, thickness and width) and through light and electron microscopy. The microscopy light followed a methodology for the histochemical characterization of the secretion granules and also immunohistochemical techniques to the membrane carbohydrates characterization. The methodological assesment was done in males and females and in animals of different ages. Macroscopically, the collared peccaries have three pairs of larger salivary glands, the parotid, mandibular and sublingual, the last one is divided into two portions, the polistomatic and monostomatic. The parotid is the largest of the glands observed, while the monostomatic portion of the sublingual gland is the smallest. The parotid is located near the ear, covers the entire mandibular and has a triangular shape. The parotids morphometric parameters increased as the animal aged. The mandibular is oval and it is on the angle of the mandible. The weight of the mandibular gland decreased along the advancement of the animal's age, while the other morphometric parameters augmented. The polysomntic sublingual is on the floor of the oral cavity, while the monostomatic is in the ventral portion of the mandibular gland. Morphometrically the sublinguals augmented as the animal aged. The parotid is a serous gland, however, young animals synthesized neutral mucins in small amounts, this activity stops in adult animals. The mandibles are mucous and synthesize neutral and acidic mucins in small amounts. The sublinguals are mucous and synthesize acidic and neutral mucins in large quantities. Electron microscopy revealed that the acini were globose, arranged in grapes cluster shape, adhered to each other through of a mesh of collagen fibers. The ducts were closely related to the acini. The parotid gland ultrastructure revealed the presence of strictly serous acini. The synthesized granules by these cells are very electron-dense. The mandibular glands are mucous. Their cells have numerous electron-forming granules. The sublingual gland is strictly mucosa, with granules, mostly, electrons.

Characterization of the Development of Foals in Natural Mating and Embryo Transfer

Background: Several reproductive biotechnologies are used in horses and embryo transfer (ET) is one of the most frequent in countries like Brazil and the USA. It has been shown that animals originated by new reproductive technology can have compromised growth in extreme conditions, however there are still only a few researches on the influence of embryo transfer over lactating foals under different raising methods. Due to the lack of studies on ET products development and the need to understand the process and its relate with lactating foals growth, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the embryo transfer and natural mate over the newborn foals.Materials, Methods & Results: From a group of 20 mares, 20 Quarter Horse lactating foals were used (10 natural matting + 10 embryo transfer). The mares werent given any concentrate feed during whole gestation and lactation. Foals were kept with the mare, however was used creep feeding to give commercial feed ad libitum. The foals biometric evaluation were made at the day of birth (day 0) and at 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th and 150th day (weaning) for the following parameters: body mass (BM), height at the withers (H), heart girth (HG), cannon bone girth (CBG) and fat mass percentage (FMP). The fat thickness percentage at rump it was determined by ultrasound device. All statistics were considered significant when a P &

Characterization of the Development of Foals in Natural Mating and Embryo Transfer

Background: Several reproductive biotechnologies are used in horses and embryo transfer (ET) is one of the most frequent in countries like Brazil and the USA. It has been shown that animals originated by new reproductive technology can have compromised growth in extreme conditions, however there are still only a few researches on the influence of embryo transfer over lactating foals under different raising methods. Due to the lack of studies on ET products development and the need to understand the process and its relate with lactating foals growth, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the embryo transfer and natural mate over the newborn foals.Materials, Methods & Results: From a group of 20 mares, 20 Quarter Horse lactating foals were used (10 natural matting + 10 embryo transfer). The mares werent given any concentrate feed during whole gestation and lactation. Foals were kept with the mare, however was used creep feeding to give commercial feed ad libitum. The foals biometric evaluation were made at the day of birth (day 0) and at 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th and 150th day (weaning) for the following parameters: body mass (BM), height at the withers (H), heart girth (HG), cannon bone girth (CBG) and fat mass percentage (FMP). The fat thickness percentage at rump it was determined by ultrasound device. All statistics were considered significant when a P &

Characterization of the Development of Foals in Natural Mating and Embryo Transfer

Background: Several reproductive biotechnologies are used in horses and embryo transfer (ET) is one of the most frequent in countries like Brazil and the USA. It has been shown that animals originated by new reproductive technology can have compromised growth in extreme conditions, however there are still only a few researches on the influence of embryo transfer over lactating foals under different raising methods. Due to the lack of studies on ET products development and the need to understand the process and its relate with lactating foals growth, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the embryo transfer and natural mate over the newborn foals.Materials, Methods & Results: From a group of 20 mares, 20 Quarter Horse lactating foals were used (10 natural matting + 10 embryo transfer). The mares werent given any concentrate feed during whole gestation and lactation. Foals were kept with the mare, however was used creep feeding to give commercial feed ad libitum. The foals biometric evaluation were made at the day of birth (day 0) and at 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th and 150th day (weaning) for the following parameters: body mass (BM), height at the withers (H), heart girth (HG), cannon bone girth (CBG) and fat mass percentage (FMP). The fat thickness percentage at rump it was determined by ultrasound device. All statistics were considered significant when a P &

Characterization of the Development of Foals in Natural Mating and Embryo Transfer

Background: Several reproductive biotechnologies are used in horses and embryo transfer (ET) is one of the most frequent in countries like Brazil and the USA. It has been shown that animals originated by new reproductive technology can have compromised growth in extreme conditions, however there are still only a few researches on the influence of embryo transfer over lactating foals under different raising methods. Due to the lack of studies on ET products development and the need to understand the process and its relate with lactating foals growth, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the embryo transfer and natural mate over the newborn foals.Materials, Methods & Results: From a group of 20 mares, 20 Quarter Horse lactating foals were used (10 natural matting + 10 embryo transfer). The mares werent given any concentrate feed during whole gestation and lactation. Foals were kept with the mare, however was used creep feeding to give commercial feed ad libitum. The foals biometric evaluation were made at the day of birth (day 0) and at 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th and 150th day (weaning) for the following parameters: body mass (BM), height at the withers (H), heart girth (HG), cannon bone girth (CBG) and fat mass percentage (FMP). The fat thickness percentage at rump it was determined by ultrasound device. All statistics were considered significant when a P &

Characterization of the Development of Foals in Natural Mating and Embryo Transfer

Background: Several reproductive biotechnologies are used in horses and embryo transfer (ET) is one of the most frequent in countries like Brazil and the USA. It has been shown that animals originated by new reproductive technology can have compromised growth in extreme conditions, however there are still only a few researches on the influence of embryo transfer over lactating foals under different raising methods. Due to the lack of studies on ET products development and the need to understand the process and its relate with lactating foals growth, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the embryo transfer and natural mate over the newborn foals.Materials, Methods & Results: From a group of 20 mares, 20 Quarter Horse lactating foals were used (10 natural matting + 10 embryo transfer). The mares werent given any concentrate feed during whole gestation and lactation. Foals were kept with the mare, however was used creep feeding to give commercial feed ad libitum. The foals biometric evaluation were made at the day of birth (day 0) and at 30th, 60th, 90th, 120th and 150th day (weaning) for the following parameters: body mass (BM), height at the withers (H), heart girth (HG), cannon bone girth (CBG) and fat mass percentage (FMP). The fat thickness percentage at rump it was determined by ultrasound device. All statistics were considered significant when a P &

Feasibility of the use of stillborn piglets in the study of myogenesis and development of vital organs / Viabilidade do uso de leitões natimortos nos estudos de miogênese e desenvolvimento de órgãos vitais

The objective was to study the feasibility of the use of stillborn piglets in the studies of myogenesis and the development of vital organs. For this, was used litters from genetic Topigs x Danbred of 82 sows between 1st to 7 th order of parturition. In total were monitored 82 parturitions, at the end of the parturitions, all piglets were weighed and identified according to birth order. From this procedure we calculated the average weight of litters with a history of stillbirths. The piglets weighing close to or equal to the average weight of litter, and that similar to the weight of stillborn piglets from the litters, were sacrificed. In total 28 piglets were slaughtered and 30 stillbirths were used. In both classes (stillbirths and live births sacrificed) were collected, the semitendinosus muscle, heart, brain and liver. Data were analyzed using Anova, correlations and regression procedure of SAEG. Results suggested that piglets which born alive have a greater muscular area when compared to stillborn (60. 50 vs. 42.71 ?m). In addition a strong correlation (P 0. 05; r= 0.63) was found between muscular area and number of muscle fibers. Overall, the results of this study suggest that the stillborn piglets have fewer muscle fibers and cant replace piglets that born alive in researches about myogenesis and development of vital organs, and sex isnt an important variable to s

Objetivou-se estudar a viabilidade do uso de leitões natimortos nos estudos de miogênese e desenvolvimento de órgãos vitais. Utilizou-se leitegadas provenientes da genética Topigs x Danbred de 82 matrizes suínas entre 1ª à 7ª ordem de parto. No total foram monitorados 82 partos. Ao término dos partos, todos os leitões foram pesados e identificados, de acordo com a ordem de nascimento. A partir deste procedimento foi calculado o peso médio das leitegadas que apresentaram histórico de natimortos. Os leitões que apresentaram peso próximo ou igual ao peso médio da leitegada, e peso semelhante ao dos leitões natimortos provenientes das respectivas leitegadas, foram sacrificados. No total, 28 leitões foram abatidos e 30 natimortos foram utilizados. Em ambas as classes (natimortos e nascidos vivos sacrificados) foram coletados, o músculo semitendinoso, coração, cérebro e fígado. Os dados foram analisados por ANOVA, correlação e regressão através do programa estatístico SAEG. Os resultados sugerem que os leitões nascidos vivos possuem maior área muscular quando comparado com natimortos (60, 50 vs 42,71 ?m). Além disso, uma forte correlação (P 0,05; R = 0,63) foi encontrada entre a área muscular e número de fibras musculares. Leitões natimortos possuem menor número de fibras musculares, por isso não podem substituir os leitões nascidos vivos em pesquisas voltadas ao estudo da miogê

Feasibility of the use of stillborn piglets in the study of myogenesis and development of vital organs / Viabilidade do uso de leitões natimortos nos estudos de miogênese e desenvolvimento de órgãos vitais

The objective was to study the feasibility of the use of stillborn piglets in the studies of myogenesis and the development of vital organs. For this, was used litters from genetic Topigs x Danbred of 82 sows between 1st to 7 th order of parturition. In total were monitored 82 parturitions, at the end of the parturitions, all piglets were weighed and identified according to birth order. From this procedure we calculated the average weight of litters with a history of stillbirths. The piglets weighing close to or equal to the average weight of litter, and that similar to the weight of stillborn piglets from the litters, were sacrificed. In total 28 piglets were slaughtered and 30 stillbirths were used. In both classes (stillbirths and live births sacrificed) were collected, the semitendinosus muscle, heart, brain and liver. Data were analyzed using Anova, correlations and regression procedure of SAEG. Results suggested that piglets which born alive have a greater muscular area when compared to stillborn (60. 50 vs. 42.71 ?m). In addition a strong correlation (P 0. 05; r= 0.63) was found between muscular area and number of muscle fibers. Overall, the results of this study suggest that the stillborn piglets have fewer muscle fibers and cant replace piglets that born alive in researches about myogenesis and development of vital organs, and sex isnt an important variable to s

Objetivou-se estudar a viabilidade do uso de leitões natimortos nos estudos de miogênese e desenvolvimento de órgãos vitais. Utilizou-se leitegadas provenientes da genética Topigs x Danbred de 82 matrizes suínas entre 1ª à 7ª ordem de parto. No total foram monitorados 82 partos. Ao término dos partos, todos os leitões foram pesados e identificados, de acordo com a ordem de nascimento. A partir deste procedimento foi calculado o peso médio das leitegadas que apresentaram histórico de natimortos. Os leitões que apresentaram peso próximo ou igual ao peso médio da leitegada, e peso semelhante ao dos leitões natimortos provenientes das respectivas leitegadas, foram sacrificados. No total, 28 leitões foram abatidos e 30 natimortos foram utilizados. Em ambas as classes (natimortos e nascidos vivos sacrificados) foram coletados, o músculo semitendinoso, coração, cérebro e fígado. Os dados foram analisados por ANOVA, correlação e regressão através do programa estatístico SAEG. Os resultados sugerem que os leitões nascidos vivos possuem maior área muscular quando comparado com natimortos (60, 50 vs 42,71 ?m). Além disso, uma forte correlação (P 0,05; R = 0,63) foi encontrada entre a área muscular e número de fibras musculares. Leitões natimortos possuem menor número de fibras musculares, por isso não podem substituir os leitões nascidos vivos em pesquisas voltadas ao estudo da miogê