The equine endometrium and its multiple connections, interrelationships and clinical effects in aged mares

Mares, which make up 90% of animals requiring reproductive assistance in commercial equine production systems, are subjected to strong breeding and reproductive efficiency pressure throughout their lives, but the effects of aging on overall and reproductive systems in particular; it often means that we are forcing the natural homeostasis mechanisms under pressure over time. The objective of this brief communication is to summarize some concepts related to the role and importance of equine endometrium, particularly in old mares, the most challenged category to achieve productive and efficiency goals established by humans. Endometritis is one of the most frequent and recurrent pathologies in equine gynecology and is responsible for enormous economic losses in the industry. Alterations of the microbiota, molecular signals and uterine endocrine microenvironment can lead to infertility, but degenerative phenomena associated with age and parity can lead to endometriosis altering maternal recognition of pregnancy and pregnancy maintenance. Maintaining horses in an adequate nutrition status and environment is essential to achieve pregnancy but also to obtain healthy offspring.(AU)

Effect of ageing and MAP on quality of striploin from cattle of Holstein-Friesian breed

There have been determined the features of m. longissimus lumborum steaks from young cattle-for-fattening of Holstein-Friesian breed, Polish black-and-white variety. There were measured pH values, basic chemical composition and colour parameters. The meat was subjected to moist-ageing for 12 days and, next, stored in modified atmosphere for the following 10 days. The amount of heat loss in relation to the temperature of thermal processing was determined. Texture parameters were studied instrumentally and organoleptically. The studied muscles from young cattle-for-fattening characterised with proper and similar pH values. The average fat content was 4.37%. The surface colour of the studied dorsal muscle was relatively bright, the average value L*=37.97, and on the cross-section L*=32.97. The average value of the muscle surface's 'redness' was a*=18.98, whereas cross-section's a*=20.27. The amounts of heat leakages were rising along with the increase of temperature from 11.24 to 37.14%. Ageing and storing in MAP led to a significant decrease in the amounts of heat leakages. Ageing and storing in MAP had a significant influence on decreasing shear force and on increasing the organoleptic evaluation marks of the m. longissimus lumborum after thermal processing, which shows that the muscle may become culinary meat with features accepted by consumers.(AU)

Stereological and morphological analysis of the effects of aging on spermatogenesis in rat testis

Purpose: To quantify, through stereological and morphometric analysis, spermatogenesis in rats undergoing the natural aging process. Methods: Seventy-two male Wistar rats were divided into 6 equal groups according to age at the time of killing: 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months. All the rats were subjected orchiectomy and collection of testicular parenchymal fragments for histological and morphometric analysis. The numerical density of spermatids was calculated using a stereological study, and morphometric analysis was conducted to measure the height of the germinal epithelium and the area of the seminiferous tubules. Results: We found that the 18 and 24 months groups showed a significant reduction in the number of round spermatids. However, the height of the germinal epithelium was not significantly different between the groups. The area of seminiferous tubules was also significantly reduced in the elderly rats compared to that in the young ones. Conclusion: Aging of rats showed a significant reduction in the number of round spermatids and the area of the seminiferous tubules, more pronounced in the rats at 18 and 24 months of life.(AU)

Acompanhamento eletrocardiográfico no desenvolvimento de ratos Wistar / Eletrocardiographic monitoring in the development of Wistar Rats

A atividade elétrica cardíaca pode ser registrada por meio do eletrocardiograma (ECG), registro capaz de captar as alterações do percurso elétrico. Na literatura científica, não existe descrição de padrões eletrocardiográficos de ratos Wistar desde a fase de recém-nascidos até serem considerados envelhecidos. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o padrão eletrocardiográfico de ratos Wistar desde a fase de recém-nascidos até serem considerados envelhecidos, no intuito de que os resultados possam contribuir como referencial dos padrões da espécie. Foram utilizados ratos Rattus novergicus albinus, da linhagem Wistar. Os ratos foram divididos em cinco grupos experimentais, sendo definidos de acordo com a idade e assim denominados: grupo 21 dias (21D), dois meses (2M), três meses (3M), sete meses (7M) e 18 meses (18M), sendo n=20 por grupo. Para a realização do ECG, eletrodos conectados aos canais do eletrocardiógrafo foram posicionados nos animais e captaram o sinal elétrico do coração em seis derivações. Os dados foram agrupados e submetidos a comparação por meio de ANOVA e teste de Tukey-Kramer, P≤0,05. Os resultados mostraram que, de forma geral, as modulações ao longo do processo de envelhecimento diante dos parâmetros relacionados ao ECG se iniciam a partir do período 2M, com aparente estabilidade até 3M e/ou 7M, seguindo por exacerbação das modulações em 7M e/ou 18M, a depender da variável eletrocardiográfica em questão. Em relação à frequência cardíaca (FC), concomitantemente, nota-se um padrão similar, ou seja, diminuição dela a partir do período 2M, com estabilidade até 7M, seguindo por diminuição mais pronunciada em 18M. Os resultados sugerem que, devido ao processo de envelhecimento, o coração de ratos Wistar apresenta modificações na condução do estímulo elétrico, bem como redução na FC, fatores que merecem atenção enquanto indicadores de inclusão/exclusão de animais em grupos experimentais por parte de [...].(AU)

The cardiac electrical activity can be recorded through the electrocardiogram (ECG), this recording is able to capture the changes in the electric route. In the scientific literature, there is no description of electrocardiographic patterns of Wistar rats at the stage of newborn to be considered aged. The aim of this study was to evaluate the electrocardiographic pattern of Wistar rats at various stages of growth, in order for the results to contribute as a standard reference. Rattus norvegicus albinus rats of the Wistar lineage were used. The rats were divided into 5 experimental groups being defined according to age and named as follows: group 21 days (21D), 2 months (2M), 3 months (3M), 7 months (7M) and 18 months (18M), where n = 20 per group. For the realization of ECG, electrodes connected to the electrocardiograph channels were positioned in animals to capture the electrical signal of the heart in 6-lead. The data were grouped and subjected to comparison by ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer test, P=0.05. The results showed that, overall, the modulations along the front aging process, related to the ECG, are initiated from 2M period, apparent stability by 3M and/or 7M, followed by exacerbation of modulations in 7M and/or 18M, depending on the electrocardiographic variable in question. Front of heart rate (HR), concomitantly, there is a similar pattern, that is, decreasing from 2M period with stability until 7M, followed by more pronounced decrease in 18M. The results suggest that due to the aging process, the heart of Wistar rats shows changes in the conduction of electrical stimulation and reduction in heart rate, factors that deserve attention as indicators of inclusion / exclusion of animals in experimental groups by researchers using that species as a model.(AU)

Acompanhamento eletrocardiográfico no desenvolvimento de ratos Wistar / Eletrocardiographic monitoring in the development of Wistar Rats

A atividade elétrica cardíaca pode ser registrada por meio do eletrocardiograma (ECG), registro capaz de captar as alterações do percurso elétrico. Na literatura científica, não existe descrição de padrões eletrocardiográficos de ratos Wistar desde a fase de recém-nascidos até serem considerados envelhecidos. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o padrão eletrocardiográfico de ratos Wistar desde a fase de recém-nascidos até serem considerados envelhecidos, no intuito de que os resultados possam contribuir como referencial dos padrões da espécie. Foram utilizados ratos Rattus novergicus albinus, da linhagem Wistar. Os ratos foram divididos em cinco grupos experimentais, sendo definidos de acordo com a idade e assim denominados: grupo 21 dias (21D), dois meses (2M), três meses (3M), sete meses (7M) e 18 meses (18M), sendo n=20 por grupo. Para a realização do ECG, eletrodos conectados aos canais do eletrocardiógrafo foram posicionados nos animais e captaram o sinal elétrico do coração em seis derivações. Os dados foram agrupados e submetidos a comparação por meio de ANOVA e teste de Tukey-Kramer, P≤0,05. Os resultados mostraram que, de forma geral, as modulações ao longo do processo de envelhecimento diante dos parâmetros relacionados ao ECG se iniciam a partir do período 2M, com aparente estabilidade até 3M e/ou 7M, seguindo por exacerbação das modulações em 7M e/ou 18M, a depender da variável eletrocardiográfica em questão. Em relação à frequência cardíaca (FC), concomitantemente, nota-se um padrão similar, ou seja, diminuição dela a partir do período 2M, com estabilidade até 7M, seguindo por diminuição mais pronunciada em 18M. Os resultados sugerem que, devido ao processo de envelhecimento, o coração de ratos Wistar apresenta modificações na condução do estímulo elétrico, bem como redução na FC, fatores que merecem atenção enquanto indicadores de inclusão/exclusão de animais em grupos experimentais por parte de pesquisadores que utilizam a referida espécie como modelo de estudo.(AU)

The cardiac electrical activity can be recorded through the electrocardiogram (ECG), this recording is able to capture the changes in the electric route. In the scientific literature, there is no description of electrocardiographic patterns of Wistar rats at the stage of newborn to be considered aged. The aim of this study was to evaluate the electrocardiographic pattern of Wistar rats at various stages of growth, in order for the results to contribute as a standard reference. Rattus norvegicus albinus rats of the Wistar lineage were used. The rats were divided into 5 experimental groups being defined according to age and named as follows: group 21 days (21D), 2 months (2M), 3 months (3M), 7 months (7M) and 18 months (18M), where n = 20 per group. For the realization of ECG, electrodes connected to the electrocardiograph channels were positioned in animals to capture the electrical signal of the heart in 6-lead. The data were grouped and subjected to comparison by ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer test, P=0.05. The results showed that, overall, the modulations along the front aging process, related to the ECG, are initiated from 2M period, apparent stability by 3M and/or 7M, followed by exacerbation of modulations in 7M and/or 18M, depending on the electrocardiographic variable in question. Front of heart rate (HR), concomitantly, there is a similar pattern, that is, decreasing from 2M period with stability until 7M, followed by more pronounced decrease in 18M. The results suggest that due to the aging process, the heart of Wistar rats shows changes in the conduction of electrical stimulation and reduction in heart rate, factors that deserve attention as indicators of inclusion / exclusion of animals in experimental groups by researchers using that species as a model.(AU)

Infertility diagnosis in jaguar (Panthera onca): case report / Diagnóstico de infertilidade em onça pintada (Panthera onca): relato de caso

This work reports one case of infertility in a male jaguar (Panthera onca) aged 21 years and weighing 125 kg. Changes in sperm due to chronic stress, inadequate food handling and reproductive senescence are emphasized.(AU)

O presente trabalho relata um caso de infertilidade em uma onça-pintada (Panthera onca), macho, de 21 anos e 125 kg. São ressaltadas as alterações ocorridas nos espermatozoides, devido a estresse crônico, manejo alimentar inadequado e senescência reprodutiva.(AU)

Infertility diagnosis in jaguar (Panthera onca): case report / Diagnóstico de infertilidade em onça pintada (Panthera onca): relato de caso

This work reports one case of infertility in a male jaguar (Panthera onca) aged 21 years and weighing 125 kg. Changes in sperm due to chronic stress, inadequate food handling and reproductive senescence are emphasized.(AU)

O presente trabalho relata um caso de infertilidade em uma onça-pintada (Panthera onca), macho, de 21 anos e 125 kg. São ressaltadas as alterações ocorridas nos espermatozoides, devido a estresse crônico, manejo alimentar inadequado e senescência reprodutiva.(AU)

Infertility diagnosis in jaguar (Panthera onca): case report / Diagnóstico de infertilidade em onça pintada (Panthera onca): relato de caso

This work reports one case of infertility in a male jaguar (Panthera onca) aged 21 years and weighing 125 kg. Changes in sperm due to chronic stress, inadequate food handling and reproductive senescence are emphasized.

O presente trabalho relata um caso de infertilidade em uma onça-pintada (Panthera onca), macho, de 21 anos e 125 kg. São ressaltadas as alterações ocorridas nos espermatozoides, devido a estresse crônico, manejo alimentar inadequado e senescência reprodutiva.

Quantitative analysis of the renal aging in rats. Stereological study

PURPOSE:To evaluate the renal function and the renal histological alterations through the stereology and morphometrics in rats submitted to the natural process of aging.METHODS:Seventy two Wistar rats, divided in six groups. Each group was sacrificed in a different age: 3, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months. It was performed right nephrectomy, stereological and morphometric analysis of the renal tissue (renal volume and weight, density of volume (Vv[glom]) and numerical density (Nv[glom]) of the renal glomeruli and average glomerular volume (Vol[glom])) and also it was evaluated the renal function for the dosage of serum creatinine and urea.RESULTS:There was significant decrease of the renal function in the oldest rats. The renal volume presented gradual increase during the development of the rats with the biggest values registered in the group of animals at 12 months of age and significant progressive decrease in older animals. Vv[glom] presented statistically significant gradual reduction between the groups and the Nv[glom] also decreased significantly.CONCLUSIONS:The renal function proved to be inferior in senile rats when compared to the young rats. The morphometric and stereological analysis evidenced renal atrophy, gradual reduction of the volume density and numerical density of the renal glomeruli associated to the aging process.(AU)

Computed tomographic features of the feline brain change with advancing age? / O aspecto tomográfico do encéfalo de felinos altera com o avanço da idade?

A better understanding of normal or expected encephalic changes with increasing age in cats is needed as a growing number of these animals is attended in veterinary clinics, and imaging data referring to normal age-associated changes are extremely scarce in the literature. The objective of this study was to identify age-related changes in feline brain using CT imaging. Fifteen non-brachycephalic healthy cats with age between 1 to 6 years (adult group) and others over 12 years (geriatric group) were submitted to CT scan of the brain. Statistically significant differences were found between the groups for the ability to identify the left lateral ventricle and for falx cerebri calcification, both identified in a greater number of cats of the geriatric group. A significantly higher mean width of the third ventricle was also detected in geriatric animals. There were no statistically significant differences between lateral ventricular dimensions and encephalic parenchymal attenuation on pre and post-contrast CT phases. The results of the present study show an increase in the incidence of falx cerebri calcification and a third ventricular dilatation with advancing age in cats. Future researches using MRI scanners and a greater quantity of cats are needed in order to identify supplementary age-related changes.(AU)

Uma melhor compreensão das alterações encefálicas normais ou esperadas com o aumento da idade em gatos é necessária no presente momento, uma vez que tem havido um número crescente desses animais nas clínicas veterinárias, e dados de imagem referentes às alterações normais associadas à idade são extremamente escassos na literatura. O objetivo deste estudo foi a identificação de alterações relacionadas à idade no encéfalo de gatos através da tomografia computadorizada. Quinze gatos saudáveis não braquicefálicos com idade entre 1 e 6 anos (grupo adulto) e mais de 12 anos (grupo geriátrico) foram submetidos à tomografia encefálica. Diferenças estatísticas significativas foram encontradas entre os grupos para a identificação do ventrículo lateral esquerdo e calcificação da foice cerebral, ambos visualizados em um número maior de gatos do grupo geriátrico. A média de largura do terceiro ventrículo também foi significativamente maior nos animais geriátricos. Não foram encontradas diferenças estatísticas significativas entre a mensuração dos ventrículos laterais e a atenuação do parênquima encefálico nas fases tomográficas pré e pós-contraste. Os resultados do presente estudo demonstram aumento da incidência de calcificação da foice cerebral e dilatação do terceiro ventrículo de acordo com o avanço da idade em gatos. Pesquisas futuras utilizando ressonância magnética e uma maior quantidade de gatos são necessárias a fim de se identificar alterações complementares relacionadas à idade.(AU)

Age-related changes in activity of catalase in selected bovine muscles

Background: The unavoidable consequence of ageing process is oxidative stress which is harmful to cells. Muscles asa post-mitotic cells are especially susceptible for it. They are protected by antioxidants. One of the main antioxidantenzymes is catalase (CAT). Although muscles were extensively examined for antioxidant defense, there is a lack of comparative study regarding CAT activity in skeletal muscles, heart muscle and diaphragm in cows. The aim of present studywas investigate the link between age related alterations and antioxidant defense system and confirmation that CAT activitydepends on age and type of muscle tissue dependent on metabolic rate.Materials, Methods & Results: Samples of skeletal muscles, heart and diaphragm were collected from healthy HolsteinFriesian cows aged between 14 and 27 months (n = 12; sexually mature) and female calves aged between 2 weeks and 2months (n = 9; sexually immature) in slaughterhouse. The enzyme activity was measured by spectrophotometric method.Additionally the presence of CAT was confirmed by SDS-PAGE separation and detected by zymography. In current investigation CAT activity in heart and diaphragm showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) values than in skeletal muscles.Moreover, CAT activity was higher in cows than in calves in heart (0.28 ± 0.044 U /mg protein vs. 0.4 ± 0.035) as well asin diaphragm (0.27 ± 0.047 vs 0.37 ± 0.077), however in skeleton muscles there were no significant differences betweenexamined animals (0.076 ± 0.016 vs 0.084 ± 0.0197). According to received results CAT activity increased during agingin heart and diaphragm while in skeleton muscles age-related changes were not observed.Discussion: Skeletal muscles are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress because...(AU)

Age-related changes in activity of catalase in selected bovine muscles

Background: The unavoidable consequence of ageing process is oxidative stress which is harmful to cells. Muscles asa post-mitotic cells are especially susceptible for it. They are protected by antioxidants. One of the main antioxidantenzymes is catalase (CAT). Although muscles were extensively examined for antioxidant defense, there is a lack of comparative study regarding CAT activity in skeletal muscles, heart muscle and diaphragm in cows. The aim of present studywas investigate the link between age related alterations and antioxidant defense system and confirmation that CAT activitydepends on age and type of muscle tissue dependent on metabolic rate.Materials, Methods & Results: Samples of skeletal muscles, heart and diaphragm were collected from healthy HolsteinFriesian cows aged between 14 and 27 months (n = 12; sexually mature) and female calves aged between 2 weeks and 2months (n = 9; sexually immature) in slaughterhouse. The enzyme activity was measured by spectrophotometric method.Additionally the presence of CAT was confirmed by SDS-PAGE separation and detected by zymography. In current investigation CAT activity in heart and diaphragm showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) values than in skeletal muscles.Moreover, CAT activity was higher in cows than in calves in heart (0.28 ± 0.044 U /mg protein vs. 0.4 ± 0.035) as well asin diaphragm (0.27 ± 0.047 vs 0.37 ± 0.077), however in skeleton muscles there were no significant differences betweenexamined animals (0.076 ± 0.016 vs 0.084 ± 0.0197). According to received results CAT activity increased during agingin heart and diaphragm while in skeleton muscles age-related changes were not observed.Discussion: Skeletal muscles are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress because...

The age-related changes in SOD activity in bovine (Bos taurus) reproductive organs

Background: The appearance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is connect with oxidative energy production particularlyin reproductive organs. They characterize by increased metabolism, which may change during ageing. Their increasecould be dangerous for germ cells. That is why the antioxidant protection is need. One of the main antioxidative enzymeis superoxide dismutase (SOD) which could be regulated by steroid hormones through genomic mechanism of action. Buttheir level changed during ageing and maturation. However, there is still lack information about ageing alteration of SODactivity in bovine especially in reproductive organs.Materials, Methods & Results: The material for experiment consisted of reproductive organs: uterus (which was separatedinto endometrium and myometrium), both ovaries and corpus luteum collected immediately after slaughter at the slaughterhouse. Samples were taken from healthy cows aged between 16-24 months (n = 15) during luteal phase of cycle and femalecalves aged between 2 weeks and 2 months (n = 12) Total SOD activity was measured in homogenates of reproductiveorgans by use of the spectrophotometric method. PAGE electrophoresis was performed and Western blotting techniquewith specific anti-SOD antibodies as well as zymography confirmed the presence of enzymatic protein and the activity ofSOD isoenzymes. The results of spectrophotometric determinations showed significant influence of age on SOD activityin examined tissues. The SOD activity not indicate significant differences between examined reproductive organs in thegroup of cows but higher level was noticed in myometrium while the lowest in corpus luteum but the differences betweenovaries in cows were not observed. In the group of female calves as well as in the group of cows the differences betweenSOD activity in reproductive organs were not observed. The higher level was noticed in ovaries but the lower level wasobserved in myometrium...

The age-related changes in SOD activity in bovine (Bos taurus) reproductive organs

Background: The appearance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is connect with oxidative energy production particularlyin reproductive organs. They characterize by increased metabolism, which may change during ageing. Their increasecould be dangerous for germ cells. That is why the antioxidant protection is need. One of the main antioxidative enzymeis superoxide dismutase (SOD) which could be regulated by steroid hormones through genomic mechanism of action. Buttheir level changed during ageing and maturation. However, there is still lack information about ageing alteration of SODactivity in bovine especially in reproductive organs.Materials, Methods & Results: The material for experiment consisted of reproductive organs: uterus (which was separatedinto endometrium and myometrium), both ovaries and corpus luteum collected immediately after slaughter at the slaughterhouse. Samples were taken from healthy cows aged between 16-24 months (n = 15) during luteal phase of cycle and femalecalves aged between 2 weeks and 2 months (n = 12) Total SOD activity was measured in homogenates of reproductiveorgans by use of the spectrophotometric method. PAGE electrophoresis was performed and Western blotting techniquewith specific anti-SOD antibodies as well as zymography confirmed the presence of enzymatic protein and the activity ofSOD isoenzymes. The results of spectrophotometric determinations showed significant influence of age on SOD activityin examined tissues. The SOD activity not indicate significant differences between examined reproductive organs in thegroup of cows but higher level was noticed in myometrium while the lowest in corpus luteum but the differences betweenovaries in cows were not observed. In the group of female calves as well as in the group of cows the differences betweenSOD activity in reproductive organs were not observed. The higher level was noticed in ovaries but the lower level wasobserved in myometrium...(AU)

Physiological and performance in overcoming dormancy in seeds Brachiaria brizantha under artificial chemical treatment and aging / Desempenho fisiológico e superação de dormência em sementes de Brachiaria brizantha submetidas a tratamento químico e envelhecimento artificial

The use of seeds of B. brizantha has increased, however, the physiological quality of seeds available to the producer is still a limiting factor for a good performance culture. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects caused by chemical scarification, different periods of aging and priming on physiological quality and overcoming seed dormancy B. brizantha cv. MG-5 Victory. The seeds were subjected to chemical scarification H2SO4 (presence and absence), artificial aging periods (zero, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144 and 168 hours) at 41 C and priming using the 0,2 KNO3 % (presence and absence) for two hours at 25 º C, creating a completely randomized design in factorial 2x8x2, with four repetitions. The seeds were evaluated by testing germination and vigor. Chemical scarification is an effective method for breaking dormancy, but decreases the physiological seed. Overcoming seed dormancy B. brizantha occurs with the use of artificial aging for non-scarified and scarified seeds. Priming generally has no effect on the physiological quality and overcoming seed dormancy B. brizantha, however, it provides less loss of cellular constituents.(AU)

A utilização de sementes de B. brizantha tem aumentado, porém, a qualidade fisiológica das sementes colocadas à disposição do produtor é ainda um fator limitante para um bom desempenho da cultura. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos causados pela escarificação química, diferentes períodos de envelhecimento artificial e condicionamento fisiológico sobre a qualidade fisiológica e superação de dormência das sementes de B. brizantha cv. MG-5 Vitória. As sementes foram submetidas à escarificação química H2SO4 (presença e ausência), períodos de envelhecimento artificial (zero, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144 e 168 horas) à 41ºC e condicionamento fisiológico utilizando-se KNO3 a 0,2% (presença e ausência) por duas horas à 25ºC, constituindo um delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado (DIC) em esquema fatorial 2x8x2, com quatro repetições. As sementes foram avaliadas por meio de testes de germinação e vigor. A escarificação química é um método eficaz para superação de dormência, porém reduz o potencial fisiológico das sementes. Superação de dormência das sementes de B. brizantha ocorre com o emprego do envelhecimento artificial para sementes não escarificadas e escarificadas. O condicionamento fisiológico de modo geral não tem efeito sobre a qualidade fisiológica e superação de dormência das sementes de B. brizantha, todavia, o mesmo propicia menor perda de constituintes celulares.(AU)

Geriatria equina: aspectos gerais / Equine geriatry: general aspects / Geriatría equina: general

A geriatria equina está pouco difundida em nosso meio, os estudos voltados para o processo de senescência (envelhecimento) equina são mais comumente feitos nos países mais desenvolvidos como Estados Unidos, Austrália e países do Reino Unido. Porém, algumas afecções como Síndrome de Cushing, Doenças Articulares Degenerativas e Afecções Neoplásicas são bem descritas em literatura nacional. Algumas mudanças endócrinas e metabólicas também acontecem e devem ser levadas em consideração, pois quando pensamos em algum tratamento terapêutico ou exigências físicas, os equinos idosos têm suas particularidades. É nítida a importância de estudos e trabalhos mais aprofundados sobre as patologias correlacionadas com o processo de senescência equina. Saber determinar quando um equino é considerado idoso e as alterações que acontecem com o passar da idade junto a suas limitações podem garantir ao equino geriatra qualidade de vida e longevidade.(AU)

The equine geriatrics is little known in Brazil, the studies focused on the process of senescence (aging) equina are most commonly made in developed countries like USA, Australia and UK countries. However, some conditions such as Cushing's syndrome, Degenerative Articular Diseases and neoplastic diseases are well described in the literature. Some endocrine and metabolic changes also take place and should be taken into consideration because when we think of some therapeutic or physical demands older horses have their peculiarities. And clearly the importance of studies and further work on the pathologies correlated with the equine senescence process. Knowing determine when a horse is considered old and the changes that happen over the age next to its limitations can assure the equine geriatrician quality of life and longevity.(AU)

Los equinos geriatría es poco conocido en Brasil, los estudios se centraron en el proceso de senescencia (envejecimiento) de caballo se realizan con mayor frecuencia en los países desarrollados como los países en EUA, Australia y el Reino Unido. Sin embargo, algunas condiciones como el síndrome de Cushing, enfermedades articulares degenerativas y enfermedades neoplásicas están bien descritos en la literatura. Algunos cambios endocrinos y metabólicos también se llevan a cabo y debe ser tomado en consideración porque cuando pensamos en algunas demandas terapéuticas físicas o caballos más viejos tienen sus peculiaridades. Y claramente la importancia de los estudios y otros trabajos sobre las patologías correlacionadas con el proceso de senescencia equina. Saber determinar cuándo un caballo se considera de edad y los cambios que ocurren durante la edad junto a sus limitaciones puede asegurar la calidad geriatra equina de la vida y la longevidad. (AU)

Geriatria equina: aspectos gerais / Equine geriatry: general aspects / Geriatría equina: general

A geriatria equina está pouco difundida em nosso meio, os estudos voltados para o processo de senescência (envelhecimento) equina são mais comumente feitos nos países mais desenvolvidos como Estados Unidos, Austrália e países do Reino Unido. Porém, algumas afecções como Síndrome de Cushing, Doenças Articulares Degenerativas e Afecções Neoplásicas são bem descritas em literatura nacional. Algumas mudanças endócrinas e metabólicas também acontecem e devem ser levadas em consideração, pois quando pensamos em algum tratamento terapêutico ou exigências físicas, os equinos idosos têm suas particularidades. É nítida a importância de estudos e trabalhos mais aprofundados sobre as patologias correlacionadas com o processo de senescência equina. Saber determinar quando um equino é considerado idoso e as alterações que acontecem com o passar da idade junto a suas limitações podem garantir ao equino geriatra qualidade de vida e longevidade.

The equine geriatrics is little known in Brazil, the studies focused on the process of senescence (aging) equina are most commonly made in developed countries like USA, Australia and UK countries. However, some conditions such as Cushing's syndrome, Degenerative Articular Diseases and neoplastic diseases are well described in the literature. Some endocrine and metabolic changes also take place and should be taken into consideration because when we think of some therapeutic or physical demands older horses have their peculiarities. And clearly the importance of studies and further work on the pathologies correlated with the equine senescence process. Knowing determine when a horse is considered old and the changes that happen over the age next to its limitations can assure the equine geriatrician quality of life and longevity.

Los equinos geriatría es poco conocido en Brasil, los estudios se centraron en el proceso de senescencia (envejecimiento) de caballo se realizan con mayor frecuencia en los países desarrollados como los países en EUA, Australia y el Reino Unido. Sin embargo, algunas condiciones como el síndrome de Cushing, enfermedades articulares degenerativas y enfermedades neoplásicas están bien descritos en la literatura. Algunos cambios endocrinos y metabólicos también se llevan a cabo y debe ser tomado en consideración porque cuando pensamos en algunas demandas terapéuticas físicas o caballos más viejos tienen sus peculiaridades. Y claramente la importancia de los estudios y otros trabajos sobre las patologías correlacionadas con el proceso de senescencia equina. Saber determinar cuándo un caballo se considera de edad y los cambios que ocurren durante la edad junto a sus limitaciones puede asegurar la calidad geriatra equina de la vida y la longevidad.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection in the horse: the ultimate blind date

Background: Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has become a useful technology to produce foals when availability of semen is limited or when in-vitro fertilization is desired, as is the need for subfertile mares. However, its application into clinical practice is challenging. The purpose of this review was to discuss some fundamental molecular aspects of oocyte maturation that should be considered when performing ICSI and to report factors of age and subfertility affecting the success of a commercial ICSI program. Review: The molecular synchrony of oocyte maturation included nuclear, epigenetic and cytoplasmic maturation. Oocyte developmental competence was found to be dependent on the ability to remain in meiotic arrest until the initiation of final maturation, requiring the adequate timing involved with follicular maturation prior to ovulation. Studies performed in cattle and humans have demonstrated that in-vivo oocyte maturation results in high pregnancy rates per oocyte fertilized. Therefore, determining precise maturation of the oocyte would be valuable for the timing of ICSI and subsequent embryo development. Reproductive aging in the mare was characterized by a decline in fertility. Using RT-PCR, quantitative and temporal differences were found in mRNA content of key regulatory maturation genes in granulosa and cumulus cells and in oocytes during in vivo maturation in young and old mares. These results suggested premature oocyte maturation in aged mares that potentially could result in subfertility. Consequently, the timing of oocyte retrival after gonadotropin administration should be carefully evaluated when performing ICSI. In a commercial program, equine patients were classified into normal mares (2.5 to 15 years), problem mares (15-23 years that had not been producing embryos or pregnancies) and old mares (>24 years). Old mares were assessed for endocrine, physical and nutritional imbalances. Follicular and oocyte maturation were induced with a dominant follicle >30 mm in diameter after a normal growth and blood flow and uterine edema with a combination of hCG and GnRH. Transvaginal oocyte retrieval was performed 20 hours after administration of gonadotropins. Oocytes were further cultured in vitro for 12 to 20 hours. Frozen semen was used for all sperm injections. Injected oocytes were further cultured in vitro for at least 24 hours. Embryos were then transferred surgically into oviducts of synchronized recipients. Oocyte recovery rate was 94% (523/557 cycles), cycles per month were 3.3, 2 and 1.3 for young, problem and old mares respectively. Cleavage rates were different (p < 0.05) between young (82 %), problem (70 %) and old (52%) mares. Pregnancy rates at day 60 were also different (p < 0.05) for young (68 %), problem (50 %) and old (23%) mares. Number of pregnancies obtained from a single straw of frozen semen ranged from 2 to 12. Reproductive senescence was observed in 10% of old mares. In addition, Cushing's disease and elevated diestrus FSH were observed in 80% of the old mares. Foaling rates were evaluated in 55 pregnancies; 5% were lost in the last trimester and the remaining foals have shown no apparent abnormalities. Conclusion: More studies are needed to further elucidate the mechanisms of oocyte maturation and activation in the horse, as well as more objective methods to determine oocyte maturity and quality. A clinical ICSI program required an understanding of gamete physiology and detailed mare reproductive management. Our clinical data demonstrated that aging affects fertility profoundly in ways that may be difficult to address with current technology; nonetheless, ICSI has provided the equine industry an alternative to produce offspring from valuable mares and stallions that are subfertile.

Effects of hyperglycemia and aging in angiogenesis and reepithelization of colonic anastomoses in rats / Efeitos da hiperglicemia e do envelhecimento sobre a angiogênese e a reepitelização de anastomoses colônicas em ratos

PURPOSE: To evaluate angiogenesis and reepithelization of colonic anastomoses in rats. METHODS: 82 Wistar rats, divided into: young normoglycemic, old normoglycemic and hyperglycemic. Diabetes was induced with streptozotocin. Glycemia was assessed before induction, at 24 hours and after 90 days, when a colotomy and an anastomosis were performed, assessed at days 3, 7, and 14. Samples were prepared by immuno-histochemistry (PCNA and antifactor VIII). RESULTS: Mean glycemia after 90 days streptozotocin induction was 244,95 mg/dl. Day 7, reepithelization was greater in the young group than in the old normoglycemic (p<0.0001) and old hyperglycemic (p<0.0001) groups. Day 14, the differences were significant between the young and old normoglycemic (p<0.0001) and old hyperglycemic (p<0.0001) groups. The two old groups were not significantly different. At the three periods angiogenesis was higher in the young group than in the old normoglycemic (p3=0.014; p7<0.0001; p14<0.0001) or the old hyperglycemic groups (p3=0.014, p7<0.0001; p14<0.0001). The old groups, day 3, were not different (p3=0.627), but days 7 and 14, angiogenesis was bigger in the normoglycemic group (p7=0.042; p14=0.005). CONCLUSION: Age is important in reepithelization and angiogenesis of colonic anastomoses. Hyperglycemia interferes mainly in angiogenesis.(AU)

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a angiogênese e a reepitelização de anastomoses colônicas em ratos. MÉTODOS: 82 ratos Wistar divididos em: jovens normoglicêmicos, velhos normoglicêmicos e hiperglicêmicos. Diabetes foi induzido com estreptozotocin. Glicemia foi medida antes da indução, após 24 horas e 90 dias, quando realizou-se colotomia seguida de anastomose, a qual foi estudada no 3.º, 7.º e 14.º dia.Peças foram preparadas por imunohistoquímica (PCNA e Antifator VIII). RESULTADOS: Glicemia média após 90 dias foi de 244,95 mg/dl. No 7.º dia, a reepitelização foi maior no grupo jovem que nos grupos velho normoglicêmico (p<0,0001) e velho hiperglicêmico (p<0,0001). Dia 14, mantiveram-se as diferenças entre os grupos jovem e velhos normoglicêmico (p<0,0001) e hiperglicêmico (p<0,0001). Os dois grupos velhos não diferiram entre si. Nos três períodos a angiogênese foi maior no grupo jovem do que nos velhos normoglicêmicos (p3=0.014, p7<0.0001; p14<0.0001) e que nos velhos hiperglicêmicos (p3=0.014, p7<0.0001; p14<0.0001). No 3.º dia, os grupos velhos não foram diferentes (p3=0.627), mas no 7.º e no 14.º, a angiogênese foi maior no grupo normoglicêmico (p7=0.042; p14=0.005). CONCLUSÃO: Idade é importante para a reepitelização e angiogênese das anastomoses colônicas. Hiperglicemia interfere principalmente na angiogênese.(AU)

Effect of aging on liver regeneration in rats / Efeitos do envelhecimento na regeneração hepática em ratos

OBJETIVO: Acredita-se que idosos tenham maior dificuldade de regenerar e/ou cicatrizar tecidos. O fígado é um dos mais complexos órgãos do corpo humano, e está envolvido em diversas funções. A regeneração hepática representa um mecanismo de proteção orgânica contra a perda de tecido hepático funcionante. O objetivo do presente estudo é reconhecer a capacidade regenerativa do fígado de animais velhos e compará-la com a de animais adultos jovens.MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 34 ratos Wistar, 17 com 90 dias (jovens) e 17 com 460 dias (velhos). Aproximadamente 70% do fígado foi cirurgicamente removido. As aferições foram feitas com 24 horas e com 7 dias, com 3 métodos: Fórmula de KWON et al para reconhecer ganho de volume, contagem das figuras de mitose existentes em 5 campos e percentual dos núcleos PCNA positivos em 5 campos. RESULTADOS: O remanescente hepático ganhou maior volume nos animais jovens tanto com 24 horas (p=0,0006) quanto com 7 dias (p=0,0000). Os cortes histológicos revelaram maior número de figuras de mitose nos fígados dos jovens avaliados com 24 horas (p=0,0000). Na avaliação com 7 dias houve recuperação nos velhos, que se aproximaram dos jovens (p=0,2851). A contagem dos núcleos PCNA positivos foi maior nos cortes dos fígados dos jovens, com 24 horas (p=0,0310) e enquanto diminuiu nos jovens com 7 dias, nos velhos houve recuperação (p=0,0298). CONCLUSÃO: Os dados confirmam que a idade está relacionada com o atraso da regeneração hepática, em ratos.(AU)

PURPOSE: Regeneration and/or healing of tissues is believed to be more difficult in elderly people. The liver is one of the most complex organs in the human body, and is involved in a variety of functions. Liver regeneration is the body's protection mechanism against loss of functional liver tissue. The aim of this study is to identify the regenerative capacity of the liver in older animals and to compare it with that of young adult animals. METHODS: Thirty-four Wistar rats were used, of which 17 were 90 days old (young animals) and 17 were 460 days old (old animals). Approximately 70% of the liver was surgically removed. Examinations were carried out after 24 hours and on day 7, using 3 methods: KWON et al.'s formula to identify increase in volume; mitotic figure count in 5 fields; and the percentage of PCNA-positive nuclei in 5 fields. RESULTS: The increase in volume of the remaining liver was greater in the young animals after both 24 hours (p=0.0006) and on day 7 (p=0.0000). Histological cuts showed a greater mitotic figure count in young animals evaluated after 24 hours (p=0.0000). Upon evaluation on day 7, recovery was observed in the old animals. This recovery was similar to that of the young ones (p=0.2851). The PCNA-positive nucleus count was greater in the young animals' liver cuts after 24 hours (p=0.0310), and, while it had decreased in young animals by day 7, recovery was observed in the older animals (p=0.0298). CONCLUSION: The data confirm that age is related to delay in liver regeneration in rats.(AU)