Behavior and swimming performance of local fish in the ecosystem waters of rivers, oxbow and peat swamps

The four fish species, Trichogaster pectoralis, Barbodes schwanenfeldii, Osphronemus gouramy, and Wallago leeri have the same body size, representing different habitats. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the four species swimming abilities and speeds, including sustained, maximum sustained, prolonged swimming speed, and burst speed. The four species were brought using oxygenated plastic bags to the Aquatic Resources Utilization Laboratory at Riau University. Then it was acclimated in an aquarium measuring 100×50×50 cm with an aeration and filtering system to maintain water quality. The four groups of species were forced to swim in the swimming channel of the flume tank, with different current speeds for each individual tested. The swimming activity of the fish was recorded using a high-speed video camera (Casio HS Exlim, EX-ZR400, Casio Computer Co. LTD, Japan). The results showed that the swimming speed of B. schwanenfeldii was higher than O. gouramy, T. pectoralis, and W. leeri. The maximum sustained swimming speed of B. schwanenfeldii is about 5.1 BL/s, and 14.2 BL/s for the burst speed. Meanwhile, the sustained swimming speed of O. gouramy (1.6 BL/s) and the burst speed is 7.2 BL/s. The maximum sustained swimming speed of T. pectoralis was 1.6 BL/s, and the burst speed was 5.7 BL/s. In addition, the maximum sustained swimming speed of W. leeri is only 0.5 BL/s and 2.4 BL/s for the burst speed. The ability of these four fish to swim was influenced by the morphology of the tail fin, body shape, and the habitat where they live.

Physiological gait test: an effective method for analyzing balance, locomotion, and neuromuscular disorders in rats and a comparison to the elevated beam test / Teste de marcha fisiológica: um método eficaz para analisar distúrbios de equilíbrio, locomoção e neuromusculares em roedores

The evaluation of animal locomotor activity is a behavioral tool widely used to measure the mechanisms underlying a particular disease, disorder, or injury, as well as the effects of exposure to a xenobiotic. The elevated beam test is one of the most used tests in rodents to assess balance and motor coordination. Despite being inexpensive and utilizing a simple apparatus, the high beam test requires a long period of animal training and habituation. The development and characterization of an alternative test, namely the gait test, has the potential to circumvent the time and effort required for animal training, deeming it an effective, inexpensive, and fast method for the analysis of behaviors that are comparably assessed by the high beam test. Therefore, the present study focused on determining the effectiveness and feasibility of the gait test for assessing rodent locomotion and balance as a replacement for the elevated beam test. For this purpose, male rats were divided into three groups: one control group exposed to a saline solution (NaCl 0.9%) and two experimental groups exposed to a single dose of either 0.2 or 1.0 mg/kg of ivermectin intraperitoneally for induction of locomotor disturbance. The high beam and gait tests were performed 15 min and 24 h after drug administration. Results show that the experimental groups had difficulty performing the tasks of either test at both time points analyzed compared to the control groups. At the high beam, experimental animals had trouble maintaining balance and walking. At the gait test, experimental animals showed alterations in gait, which were quantitated by: (a) shortening of step length, (b) decrease of stride, (c) altered step symmetry, and (d) altered stride area. Such results are indicative of compensatory efforts and were comparable between both tests. Altogether, the data indicate that the gait test meets all requirements for assessing motor coordination in rodents. The gait test is therefore validated as a complement to the elevated beam test for the study and analysis of neurodegenerative impairment and other disorders involving neuromuscular disturbances.(AU)

A avaliação da atividade locomotora animal é uma ferramenta comportamental bastante utilizada para mensurar os mecanismos subjacentes a uma determinada doença, distúrbio ou lesão e efeitos da exposição a um xenobiótico. Um dos testes mais utilizados em roedores para avaliar o equilíbrio e coordenação motora é o teste da trave elevada que, apesar de ser um teste barato e que exige um aparato simples, é necessário um longo período de treino e habituação dos animais. O desenvolvimento e caracterização de um teste alternativo, chamado de teste da marcha, tem o potencial de contornar o tempo e o esforço necessários ao treino dos animais, considerando-o um método eficaz, barato e rápido para a análise de comportamentos avaliados comparativamente pelo alto teste de feixe. Portanto, o presente estudo concentrou-se em determinar a eficácia e viabilidade do teste de marcha para avaliação da locomoção e equilíbrio de roedores em substituição ao teste da trave elevada. Para isso, ratos machos foram divididos em 3 grupos, sendo 1 grupo controle exposto à solução salina (NaCl 0,9%) e 2 grupos experimentais expostos à dose única de 0,2 e 1,0 mg/kg de ivermectina por via intraperitoneal para indução da alteração locomotora. Os testes de trave elevada e marcha foram realizados 15 min e 24 h após a administração da droga. Os resultados mostram que os grupos experimentais tiveram dificuldade em realizar as tarefas de qualquer teste em ambos os momentos analisados em comparação com os grupos de controle. Na trave elevada, os animais experimentais tiveram dificuldade em manter o equilíbrio e andar. No teste de marcha, os animais experimentais apresentaram alterações na marcha, que foram quantificadas por: (a) encurtamento do comprimento da passada, (b) diminuição da passada, (c) alteração da simetria da passada e (d) alteração da área da passada. Tais resultados são indicativos de esforços compensatórios e foram comparáveis entre os dois testes. Em conjunto, os dados indicam que o teste de marcha atende a todos os requisitos para avaliação da coordenação motora em roedores. O teste de marcha é, portanto, validado como um complementar para o teste da trave elevada e para o estudo e análise de comprometimento neurodegenerativo e outros distúrbios envolvendo distúrbios neuromusculares.(AU)

Macro- and microscopic brain anatomy of the amazon lava lizard (Tropidurus torquatus) (WIED, 1820) / Anatomia macro- e microscópica do encéfalo do calango (Tropidurus torquatus) (WIED, 1820)

Reptiles have a key role in understanding amniotes' reproductive independence of water. Many adaptations arose, including in locomotor patterns and behaviours, and the nervous system adapted to those new habits.We have described the macroscopic anatomy and cytoarchitecture of the Amazon Lava Lizard brain (Tropidurus torquatus), an abundant lizard in South America. Fifteen specimens were captured, euthanized and their brains were dissected, eight of these were processed and stained in haematoxylineosin. Their main areas of the brain are the telencephalon and diencephalon, in the forebrain, tectum and tegmentum, in the midbrain and bulbota and cerebellum, in the hindbrain. The main and accessory olfactory bulbs are the most rostral structure of the brain and are composed of six layers. Brain hemispheres compose the telencephalon and are divided in pallium and subpallium. Medial, dorsomedial, lateral and dorsal cortices are part of the pallium. Striatum, pallidum and septum compose the subpallium. The diencephalon is composed of thalamus, epithalamus and hypothalamus. The midbrain has a ventral tegmentum, composed of torus semicircularis and a dorsal 14 layered optic tectum. Most part of the hindbrain is composed of the bulbo, and the cerebellum arises from it, forming a three-layered plate like structure. In general, the brain of Tropidurus torquatusresembles those of other lizards, with its own adaptations

Os répteis têm um papel fundamental para a compreensão da independência reprodutiva da água que surgiu nos amniotas. Várias adaptações ocorreram, inclusive em padrões e comportamentos locomotores, e o sistema nervoso se adaptou a esses novos hábitos. Descrevemos a anatomia macroscópica e a citoarquitetura do encéfalo do calango (Tropidurus torquatus), um lagarto abundante na América do Sul. Quinze espécimes foram capturados, eutanasiados e seus encéfalos dissecados, oito destes foram processados e corados em hematoxilina-eosina. As principais áreas do cérebro são o telencéfalo e o diencéfalo, na parte anterior do encéfalo, teto e tegmento, no mesencéfalo e bulbo e cerebelo, na parte posterior do encéfalo. Os bulbos olfatórios principais e acessórios são as estruturas mais rostrais do cérebro e são compostos por seis camadas. Os hemisférios cerebrais compõem o telencéfalo e são divididos em pálio e subpálio. Os córtices medial, dorsomedial, lateral e dorsal fazem parte do pálio. Estriado, pálido e septo compõem o subpálio. O diencéfalo é composto pelo tálamo, epitálamo e hipotálamo. O mesencéfalo possui um tegmento ventral, composto de torus semicircularis e um tecto óptico dorsal com 14 camadas. A maior parte da parte posterior do encéfalo é composta pelo bulbo, e o cerebelo surge como uma projeção dessa estrutura, em formato plano, com três camadas. Em geral, o encéfalo de Tropidurus torquatusse assemelha ao de outros lagartos, com suas próprias adaptações.

Poliartrite em cão por Leishmaniose - tratamento com miltefosina / Polyarthritis in a dog due to leishmaniasis - treatment with miltefosine

Background: Canine visceral leishmaniasis causes several clinical signs, such as lymphadenomegaly, exfoliative dermatitis, ulcerative skin lesions, and lameness. The most commonly reported locomotor changes are claudication, edema, arthralgia, joint stiffness, and muscle atrophy. Radiographic exam revealed cortical and medullary destruction, increase, or decrease in medullary opacity, proliferative periosteal reaction, osteolysis, collapse of joint spaces and soft tissue edema are observed. The aim of this report is to describe the clinical and radiographic evolution of a case of erosive polyarthritis associated with leishmaniasis in a dog before, during and after treatment with miltefosine. Case: A 7-month-old mixed-breed dog was attended due pain and limited mobility. In the orthopedic evaluation, joint swelling, stiffness, and increased pain sensitivity of the four limbs, as well as neck stiffness, were noted. Radiographic examination showed joint changes compatible with edema, with increased volume and radiopacity of the soft tissues adjacent to the joints. The segments of the patient's spine showed more severe bone alterations, the cervical spine being one of the most affected regions, with multiple bone proliferations throughout the vertebral body, especially in the ventral portion (spondylosis), compatible with polyarthritis due to leishmaniasis. Due to the suspicion, lymph node and spleen cytology was performed, confirming the diagnosis. Hematological examination revealed anemia, leukopenia due to lymphopenia and thrombocytopenia in addition to increased AST (79,4 U/L; reference: 6,2 - 13 U/L), creatine kinase (517,6 U/L; reference: 1,5 - 28,4 U/L), lactate dehydrogenase (688,4 IU/L; reference: 45 - 233 IU/L) and hyperproteinemia (7,34 g/dL; reference: 5,4 - 7,1 g/dL). Treatment with miltefosine, allopurinol, domperidone, prednisone, gabapentin and dipyrone was started. Reassessments were performed monthly for 3 consecutive months. Hematological examinations showed improvement, with resolution of anemia and thrombocytopenia, and a marked decrease in creatine kinase values. Thus, it is evident that the dog did not develop liver or kidney changes during treatment. During the treatment and monitoring in this period, the dog had a clinical improvement, which started to walk without pain. In addition, joint swellings were no longer present, however, there was no improvement in the radiographic evaluation of the joints. Discussion: Clinical signs of the locomotor system are compatible with those described in animals that had osteoarticular manifestations associated with leishmaniasis, such as arthralgia, edema, and joint stiffness. In the present report, treatment with miltefosine associated with allopurinol resulted in an improvement in the clinical picture, and this therapy is therefore promising in dogs with polyarthritis due to leishmaniasis. A case published in human medicine demonstrated the intra-articular absorption capacity of this drug. There is only one study to date that describes the radiographic evolution of a dog with arthritis due to leishmaniasis after treatment with miltefosine and allopurinol. In this case described, the dog reported remained with the osteoarticular lesions after treatment, although clinical improvement was observed, as in our report. The use of miltefosine and allopurinol are in accordance with stage II staging for leishmaniasis. In this study, although there was no improvement in the radiographic examinations, the treatment was effective in the remission of the animal's clinical condition.

Objective lameness assessment in horses used for equine-assisted therapy in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil / Avaliação objetiva da claudicação em cavalos de equoterapia no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Equine-assisted therapy is a method used since ancient times to rehabilitate individuals. The biomechanics provided by horses and the friction between their back and the riders' saddle generate impulses that are transmitted to riders' central nervous system; thus, these horses must be healthy enough to enable the desired therapeutic effect. The aim of the current study is to investigate lameness prevalence and intensity in equine-assisted therapy horses in Rio Grande do Sul State. The adopted methodology consisted of the objective evaluation of lameness based on Lameness Locator® wireless inertial sensors, which were placed in the 21 horses assessed in six equestrian centers in Rio Grande do Sul State. Results have shown that 90.1% of the assessed horses presented lameness in the hind (54.2%) and forelimbs (45.8%), as well as that 72% of them with presented mild lameness degree. This outcome has evidenced the need, and significance, of assessing these horses' locomotor system. To support effective therapy and protect equine welfare, it is essential that veterinarians should regularly monitor these animals in order to treat and prevent disease. Even subtle lameness can influence the generated stimuli; thus, it is an important factor to be taken into consideration when selecting equine-assisted therapy.

A equoterapia é um método de terapia, utilizada para reabilitação do praticante desde a antiguidade. A biomecânica proporcionada pelo cavalo e o atrito entre o dorso do cavalo e a sela do praticante geram impulsos que são transmitidos ao sistema nervoso central do mesmo, por isso a importância desse cavalo estar em condições aptas para promover o efeito terapêutico desejado. Nosso objetivo foi identificar a prevalência e intensidade da claudicação em equinos de equoterapia no estado do Rio Grande do Sul. A metodologia utilizada foi a avaliação objetiva da claudicação com base na utilização de sensores inerciais sem fio Lameness Locator® em seis centros equestres do Rio Grande do Sul, totalizando 21 equinos avaliados. Foi constatado que 90,1% dos equinos avaliados apresentavam claudicação, 54,2% do membro pélvico e 45,8% do membro torácico, quanto a intensidade 72% foram leves. A partir desse resultado, verifica-se a necessidade e a importância da avaliação no sistema locomotor destes animais. Para uma terapia eficaz e proteger o bem-estar dos equinos, é essencial o acompanhamento periódico por um médico veterinário para tratamento e prevenção de afecções. Claudicações, mesmo sutis, podem interferir nos estímulos gerados, sendo um importante fator de escolha do cavalo apto para a equoterapia.

Permanent tracheostomy in a horse: a case report / Traqueostomia permanente em equino: relato de caso

Problems related to the locomotor and gastrointestinal systems correspond to the highest percentage of clinical cases. However, diseases related to the respiratory system can result in low animal performance or even the animal's removal from athletic life. This paper aims to report a case of permanent tracheotomy in a horse. The animal was treated at the Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia Veterinary Hospital - HOVET, with respiratory noise and dyspnea claims. In the anamnesis, the owner reported that the animal had been presenting respiratory difficulty for 20 days. On physical examination, respiratory noise and dyspnea were noted. Endoscopy was performed, from which a marked decrease in the arytenoid cartilage movement on the right and left sides was noted. It was possible to diagnose a stage IV case of bilateral laryngeal hemiplegia, combining clinical signs with endoscopy findings. Thus, the surgical treatment of permanent tracheostomy was chosen. After surgery, drug therapy using antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs was performed. In addition, a nº 6 metal tracheostomy cannula was inserted. After 36 days of hospitalization, the animal was discharged with regression of clinical signs.(AU)

Problemas relacionados aos sistemas locomotor e gastrointestinal correspondem ao maior percentual de casos clíni-cos. No entanto, doenças relacionadas ao sistema respiratório podem resultar em baixo desempenho do animal ou mesmo na retirada do animal da vida atlética. Este trabalho tem como objetivo relatar um caso de traqueotomia permanente em um cavalo. O animal foi atendido no Hospital Veterinário Jerônimo Dix-Huit Rosado Maia - HOVET, com queixas de ruído respiratório e dispneia. Na anamnese, o proprietário relatou que o animal apresentava dificuldade respiratória há 20 dias. Ao exame físico, notou-se ruído respiratório e dispneia. Foi realizada endoscopia, a partir da qual foi notada diminuição acentuada do movimento da cartilagem aritenoide nos lados direito e esquerdo. Foi possível diagnosticar um caso em estágio IV de hemiplegia laríngea bila-teral, combinando os sinais clínicos com os achados endoscópicos. Assim, optou-se pelo tratamento cirúrgico da traqueostomia definitiva. Após a cirurgia, foi realizada terapia medicamentosa com antibióticos e anti-inflamatórios. Além disso, uma cânula de traqueostomia de metal nº 6 foi inserida. Após 36 dias de internação, o animal recebeu alta com regressão dos sinais clínicos.(AU)

Pirarucu larviculture in green water provides heavier fish and modulates locomotor activity / Larvicultura de pirarucu em água verde produz peixes mais pesados e modula a atividade locomotora

The green water technique uses microalgae in the water of indoor larviculture, providing a darker environment to favor fish growth, welfare and health. We evaluated growth performance and locomotor activity after light exposure of pirarucu (Arapaima gigas) larvae reared in green or clear water. During one test, pirarucu larvae (3.6 ± 0.3 cm; 0.36 ± 0.1 g) were reared in 50-L circular tanks (n = 3 per treatment, 50 larvae per tank) in a static system containing green water [microalgae (w3algae; Bernaqua® 10 g m-3) added] or clear water (control). Fish weaning was achieved by co-feeding with Artemia nauplii and microdiets for seven days until full microdiet substitution. Larvae were biometrically evaluated on days 10, 17 and 24 to assess growth performance. In a second test, the locomotor activity of the larvae was analyzed before and after light exposure (1400 ± 60 lx) for 48 h according to an ethogram. After 24 days, the larvae reared in the green water were significantly heavier than those from the clear water, and displayed significantly fewer circular swimming movements. Body cortisol increased in both groups after light exposure. The microalgae provided an additional food source for larvae, with positive impact on growth until day 17 of larviculture. Green water can be a strategy to achieve better results in pirarucu larviculture, especially during and up to 10 days after the co-feeding period.(AU)

A técnica de água verde utiliza microalgas na água durante a larvicultura indoor, proporcionando um ambiente mais escuro que favorece o crescimento, bem-estar e saúde dos peixes. Avaliamos o crescimento e a atividade locomotora após exposição à luz de larvas de pirarucu (Arapaima gigas) criadas em água verde ou clara. Em um teste, larvas de pirarucu (3,6 ± 0,3 cm; 0,36 ± 0,1 g) foram criadas em tanques circulares de 50 L (n = 3 por tratamento; 50 larvas por tanque) em sistema estático contendo água verde [microalgas (w3algae; Bernaqua® 10 g m-3) adicionadas] ou água clara (controle). A transição alimentar dos peixes ocorreu por co-alimentação com náuplios de Artemia e microdieta por sete dias até a substituição completa pela microdieta. A biometria das larvas foi avaliada nos dias 10, 17 e 24, para avaliar o crescimento. Um segundo teste avaliou a atividade locomotora das larvas antes e após exposição à luz (1.400 ± 60,47 lx) por 48 horas usando um etograma. Após 24 dias, os peixes criados em água verde pesaram significativamente mais que os da água clara, e apresentaram significativamente menos movimentos circulares de natação. A exposição à luz aumentou o cortisol corporal nos dois grupos depois da exposição à luz. O nível corporal de cortisol aumentou em ambos grupos após exposição à luz. As microalgas forneceram uma fonte adicional de alimento para as larvas, com impacto positivo sobre seu crescimento até o 17º dia de larvicultura. Água verde pode ser uma estratégia para obter melhores resultados na larvicultura de pirarucu, principalmente durante e até 10 dias após o período de co-alimentação.(AU)

Clinical and pathological aspects of an outbreak of Streptococcus suis serotype 9 infection in pigs / Aspectos clínicos e patológicos de um surto de infecção por Streptococcus suis sorotipo 9 em suínos

Streptococcus suis is a Gram-positive pathogen that inhabits the upper respiratory tract and can cause severe systemic inflammatory disease in pigs, mainly during the nursery phase. Streptococcus suis is a reemergent pathogen, and outbreaks of its inducing disease represent significant economic losses for the pig industry worldwide. In this study, we described the clinical, pathological, and molecular aspects of an outbreak of S. suis infection with atypically high mortality. The outbreak occurred in nursery farms integrated into a cooperative in the state of Paraná, Brazil. Of the 30 nurseries, 10 were severely affected by the pathogen and had high economic losses. Clinical signs usually started approximately 10 days after weaning and were mainly characterized by acute nervous and locomotor disorders. The mortality of the affected batches usually ranged between 8% and 10%, but in some cases, it reached 18%. Nine piglets were submitted to post mortem examination. Macroscopically, the synovial joints were enlarged and contained fibrinous exudates. In the central nervous system, there was hyperemia of the leptomeningeal vessels associated with deposition of fibrin and purulent exudate in the leptomeninges. In three piglets, there was thickening of the choroid plexus associated with dilation of the lateral ventricles. Microscopic lesions were characterized mainly by fibrinosuppurative inflammation, which involved the synovial membranes, leptomeninges of the brain, and spinal cord. Furthermore, it also affects the choroid plexus, ependyma, nerve roots, and central canal of the spinal cord. S. suis was isolated from the cerebrospinal fluid, meningeal swabs, and/or synovial fluid of 8/9 piglets, and typified as serotype 9 by multiplex PCR.

Streptococcus suis é um patógeno Gram positivo que habita o trato respiratório superior e pode causar doença inflamatória sistêmica grave em suínos, principalmente durante a fase de creche. Streptococcus suis é um patógeno reemergente e surtos representam perdas econômicas significativas a suinocultura mundial. Neste estudo descrevemos os aspectos clínicos, patológicos e moleculares de um surto de infecção por S. suis com mortalidade atipicamente alta. O surto ocorreu em creches integradas a uma cooperativa do estado do Paraná, Brasil. Das 30 creches, 10 foram severamente afetadas pelo patógeno e apresentavam elevadas perdas econômicas. Os sinais clínicos iniciavam em torno de 10 dias após o desmame e eram caracterizados principalmente por sinais clínicos nervosos e locomotores agudos. A mortalidade dos lotes afetados variava entre 8% e 10%, mas em alguns casos ultrapassava 18%. Nove leitões foram submetidos ao exame post mortem. Macroscopicamente, as articulações sinoviais estavam aumentadas e continham exsudato fibrinoso. No sistema nervoso central havia hiperemia dos vasos leptomeníngeos associada a deposição de fibrina e exsudato purulento nas leptomeninges. Em três leitões havia espessamento do plexo coroide associado a dilatação dos ventrículos laterais. As lesões microscópicas eram caracterizadas principalmente por inflamação fibrinossupurativa que envolvia as membranas sinoviais, as leptomeninges do cérebro e medula espinhal. Além disso, também afetava o plexo coroide, epêndima, raízes nervosas e canal central da medula espinhal. S. suis foi isolado do líquido cefalorraquidiano, suabe de meninge e/ou líquido sinovial de 8/9 leitões e tipificado como sorotipo 9 por PCR multiplex.

Consolidação de fraturas de tíbia em coelhos / Consolidation of tibia fractures in rabbits

Background: Disorders of the locomotor system are among the main treatments for this species, among the main causes are falls from a cage, arms or stairs and aggression by animals, such as dogs and cats. Biological osteosynthesis promotes early formation of secondary bone callus and allows a less accurate reconstruction of difficult interfragmentary apposition of 100% of the fragments. The objective of this work is to report the method of external immobilization with an aluminum channel aiming at the use of bone biology for the healing of unexposed tibial fractures in 3 rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Cases: Between 2020 and 2021, 3 cases of rabbits with unexposed tibial fractures were treated at the Veterinary Hospital. The 3 patients were diagnosed through physical examination and radiographic examination. All patients underwent anesthesia, underwent external immobilization with an aluminum channel, received analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, and recommended rest and care with the maintenance of external immobilization. Approximately at 30 days of rigid immobilization, all cases were evaluated by means of radiographic examination revealing the formation of bone callus at different post-immobilization times in the case 1 - 30 days, case 2 - 23 days and case 3 - 37 days. Discussion: Some surgical principles in rabbits must be followed, such as preserving vascularity if the open technique is decided, providing adequate diet, controlling edema, promoting analgesia and deciding on closed reduction if the fracture is recent and stable. The external coaptation method is a non-invasive method for the treatment of fractures and is also indicated with a high success rate for fractures of metacarpal, metatarsal and phalange bones in rabbits. The patient's age contributed to the early healing, which corroborates with case 1 (3-month-old), case 2 (6-month-old) and a little later the healing in case 3 (24-month-old), allowing unrestricted use of the member. It is worth reinforcing the point of view which defends that "biological osteosynthesis" promotes a favorable environment, especially in the preservation of the vascular supply of the periosteum when compared to traditional open surgical approaches. In this species, the surgical approach is a challenge due to the fact that the bones break or crack very easily, because the bones have a low density and higher mineral composition. Together, the skeleton represents 7% of the body weight, lower when compared to dogs and cats, which is 12%. In addition to these factors, rabbits are prone to secondary fractures, postoperative infections and rapid development of osteomyelitis, which significantly worsens the prognosis. The aluminum used in the manufacture of the aluminum channel has properties that offer resistance, lightness and radio transparency radiographic examination without removal of the channel, avoiding excessive micro-movement of the focus of the fracture due to lack of stabilization and possible refracture of the tibia. Rigid external immobilization with an aluminum channel was satisfactory in the 3 patients evaluated and preserved bone biology and anatomical axis. The treatment of choice was easy to apply, in addition to enabling better radiographic follow-up, promoting rapid bone healing for patients and early use of limbs without restrictions. However, for the effectiveness of the technique, the collaboration of tutors is essential.

Enostose múltipla em equino puro sangue de corrida / Enostosis-like lesion in thoroughbred horse

Background: Enostosis like lesions are characterized by areas of intramedullary sclerosis affecting the long bones andtheir presence in any cases may be not associated with lameness. It has a migratory characteristic and, therefore there isthe occurrence of lameness at different sites from the initial lesion. Its etiology is speculative and has been attributed tointraosseous increased pressure, of Havers’ canals compression, stimulation of unmyelinated fibers and circulating plateletaggregates. Diagnosis is made through nuclear scintigraphy and associated with radiographic examination. This paperaims to report a clinical case on the use of scintigraphy for the reference diagnosis of enostosis-type injury and treatmentthrough surgical bone decompression.Case: A 2-year-old thoroughbred mare, weighing 483 kg, with a history of acute lameness of the left pelvic limb associatedwith the no previous signs of trauma and no noteworthy changes in radiographic and ultrasound images, was referred to theHorse Center Veterinary Clinic. In the examination of the locomotor system, the animal presented a 2/5 degree lamenessin a straight line, with accentuated exacerbation of the same after flexion of the left femoro-tibio-patellar joint. In addition,presented a reduction in the caudal phase of the stride and croup asymmetry associated with mild myopenia. The findingsof the scintigraphic exam characterized by intense focal area of hyperconcentration of medullary radiopharmaceutical inthe proximal third of the right third metatarsal, and multiple areas of hyperconcentration in the aspect proximal to thedistal third of the left tibia. In the radiographic images, multifocal radiopaque regions that coincided with the areas ofradiopharmaceutical hyperconcentration were observed. The initial treatment was based on rest, use of non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs and acetylsalicylic acid. In the 60 days...

Review of basic trends in cryotherapy applications for horse injuries / Revisão das tendências básicas em aplicações de crioterapia em lesões em cavalos

While solving the problem of sport horses' pathologies it is important to choose safe and environmentally friendly methods, including cryotherapy, which is the topic of our research. The use of cryotherapy is a promising means of treatment of primary injury, rehabilitation in post-traumatic conditions and in chronic injuries. Prospects of cryotherapy applications in horse breeding, in particular in sports and prize areas, were researched. It was found out that modern sport horses training and their involvement in competitions is associated with serious stress on their locomotor system and maximum mobilization of all body systems, which overstrains certain muscle groups, determines increased probability and severity of injury incidence, reduction of sport longevity and worse performance in competitions.(AU)

Na resolução do problema das patologias dos cavalos esportivos é importante escolher métodos seguros e ecológicos, incluindo a crioterapia, que é o tópico desta pesquisa. O uso da crioterapia é um meio promissor no tratamento de lesões primárias, reabilitação em condições pós-traumáticas e lesões crônicas. Foram pesquisadas as perspectivas de aplicações da crioterapia na criação de cavalos, particularmente em esportes e prêmios. Verificou-se que o treinamento moderno de cavalos esportivos e seu envolvimento em competições está associado com severo estresse sobre seu sistema locomotor e mobilização máxima de todos os sistemas corporais, que sobrecarregam certos grupos musculares, determinam maior probabilidade e severidade da incidência de lesões, e reduzem a longevidade no esporte e pior desempenho em competições.(AU)

Review of basic trends in cryotherapy applications for horse injuries / Revisão das tendências básicas em aplicações de crioterapia em lesões em cavalos

While solving the problem of sport horses' pathologies it is important to choose safe and environmentally friendly methods, including cryotherapy, which is the topic of our research. The use of cryotherapy is a promising means of treatment of primary injury, rehabilitation in post-traumatic conditions and in chronic injuries. Prospects of cryotherapy applications in horse breeding, in particular in sports and prize areas, were researched. It was found out that modern sport horses training and their involvement in competitions is associated with serious stress on their locomotor system and maximum mobilization of all body systems, which overstrains certain muscle groups, determines increased probability and severity of injury incidence, reduction of sport longevity and worse performance in competitions.(AU)

Na resolução do problema das patologias dos cavalos esportivos é importante escolher métodos seguros e ecológicos, incluindo a crioterapia, que é o tópico desta pesquisa. O uso da crioterapia é um meio promissor no tratamento de lesões primárias, reabilitação em condições pós-traumáticas e lesões crônicas. Foram pesquisadas as perspectivas de aplicações da crioterapia na criação de cavalos, particularmente em esportes e prêmios. Verificou-se que o treinamento moderno de cavalos esportivos e seu envolvimento em competições está associado com severo estresse sobre seu sistema locomotor e mobilização máxima de todos os sistemas corporais, que sobrecarregam certos grupos musculares, determinam maior probabilidade e severidade da incidência de lesões, e reduzem a longevidade no esporte e pior desempenho em competições.(AU)

Avaliação neurocomportamental e níveis de acetilcolinesterase cerebral em ratos expostos subcronicamente ao fipronil / Neurobehavioral assessment and brain acetylcholinesterase levels in rats subchronically exposed to fipronil

O fipronil é um inseticida de toxicidade seletiva amplamente empregado na agricultura e na medicina veterinária. Porém, há relatos de efeitos neurotóxicos dessa substância, que geram prejuízos para vertebrados. Avaliou-se a atividade locomotora, a coordenação motora e a atividade da enzima acetilcolinesterase cerebral em ratos expostos ao fipronil. Ratos Wistar machos adultos (n=15) receberam fipronil em dose de 30mg/kg, por via oral, durante 15 dias; o grupo controle (n=15) foi tratado com solução fisiológica, por via oral, no mesmo período. No 16° dia de experimentação, os animais foram submetidos aos testes de arena de campo aberto e hole board. No 17° dia, foram anestesiados e eutanasiados, procedendo-se à coleta de órgãos, e posteriormente foi feita a avaliação da AChE cerebral. A exposição ao fipronil não provocou alterações significativas sobre a coordenação motora e a atividade locomotora, porém gerou inibição significativa da atividade da acetilcolinesterase cerebral. Esses achados sugerem que o fipronil pode provocar efeitos neurotóxicos em curto prazo, os quais podem ser exacerbados caso a exposição seja prolongada.(AU)

Fipronil is a selective-toxicity insecticide widely used in agriculture and veterinary medicine. However, there are reports of neurotoxic effects of this substance, causing damages to vertebrates. We evaluated the locomotor activity, motor coordination and the activity of brain acetylcholinesterase in rats exposed to fipronil. Adult male Wistar rats (n= 15) received fipronil at a dose of 30mg/kg orally for 15 days; the Control group (n= 15) was treated with oral solution in the same period. On the 16th day of experimentation, the animals were submitted to the open field arena test and hole-board test. On the 17th day, they were anesthetized and euthanized, and organs were collected, and subsequently brain AChE was evaluated. Exposure to fipronil yielded no significant changes on motor coordination and locomotor activity but caused significant inhibition of brain acetylcholinesterase activity. These findings suggest that fipronil may cause short-term neurotoxic effects, which may be exacerbated if exposure is prolonged.(AU)

Avaliação neurocomportamental e níveis de acetilcolinesterase cerebral em ratos expostos subcronicamente ao fipronil / Neurobehavioral assessment and brain acetylcholinesterase levels in rats subchronically exposed to fipronil

O fipronil é um inseticida de toxicidade seletiva amplamente empregado na agricultura e na medicina veterinária. Porém, há relatos de efeitos neurotóxicos dessa substância, que geram prejuízos para vertebrados. Avaliou-se a atividade locomotora, a coordenação motora e a atividade da enzima acetilcolinesterase cerebral em ratos expostos ao fipronil. Ratos Wistar machos adultos (n=15) receberam fipronil em dose de 30mg/kg, por via oral, durante 15 dias; o grupo controle (n=15) foi tratado com solução fisiológica, por via oral, no mesmo período. No 16° dia de experimentação, os animais foram submetidos aos testes de arena de campo aberto e hole board. No 17° dia, foram anestesiados e eutanasiados, procedendo-se à coleta de órgãos, e posteriormente foi feita a avaliação da AChE cerebral. A exposição ao fipronil não provocou alterações significativas sobre a coordenação motora e a atividade locomotora, porém gerou inibição significativa da atividade da acetilcolinesterase cerebral. Esses achados sugerem que o fipronil pode provocar efeitos neurotóxicos em curto prazo, os quais podem ser exacerbados caso a exposição seja prolongada.(AU)

Fipronil is a selective-toxicity insecticide widely used in agriculture and veterinary medicine. However, there are reports of neurotoxic effects of this substance, causing damages to vertebrates. We evaluated the locomotor activity, motor coordination and the activity of brain acetylcholinesterase in rats exposed to fipronil. Adult male Wistar rats (n= 15) received fipronil at a dose of 30mg/kg orally for 15 days; the Control group (n= 15) was treated with oral solution in the same period. On the 16th day of experimentation, the animals were submitted to the open field arena test and hole-board test. On the 17th day, they were anesthetized and euthanized, and organs were collected, and subsequently brain AChE was evaluated. Exposure to fipronil yielded no significant changes on motor coordination and locomotor activity but caused significant inhibition of brain acetylcholinesterase activity. These findings suggest that fipronil may cause short-term neurotoxic effects, which may be exacerbated if exposure is prolonged.(AU)

Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) elastography imaging of equine distal forelimb flexor structures / [Elastografia Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) das estruturas flexoras da porção distal do membro torácico de equinos]

This study set out to determine normal values for acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography of the superficial digital flexor tendon, deep digital flexor tendon, accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament in horses. Twenty-four horses were submitted to conventional sonographic assessment and elastography imaging (quantitative ARFI method) of distal forelimb tendons and ligaments at nine anatomical regions. Elastograms depicted tendons and ligaments in orange to red tones consistent with greater stiffness. Shear wave velocity was higher in the longitudinal compared to the cross-sectional plane but did not differ significantly between the left and right forelimbs. The suspensory ligament was stiffer compared to remaining structures in the cross-sectional plane. Ligaments were stiffer than tendons and the deep digital flexor tendon was stiffer than the superficial digital flexor tendon in the longitudinal plane. Target structures were stiffer in male compared to female horses and stiffness tended to increase with age. ARFI elastography proved to be a feasible and reproducible imaging modality for assessment of distal forelimb tendons and ligaments in horses. Qualitative features derived from stiffness quantification in these structures can be applied to horses with musculoskeletal disorders, as well as to other animal species.(AU)

Este trabalho objetivou estabelecer valores de referência por meio da elastografia ARFI ("Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse") do tendão flexor digital superficial, tendão flexor digital profundo, ligamento acessório inferior e ligamento suspensor do boleto em equinos hígidos. Vinte e quatro equinos foram submetidos aos exames ultrassonográfico e elastográfico (método ARFI quantitativo) dos tendões e ligamentos da porção distal do membro torácico, em nove regiões anatômicas diferentes. Os elastogramas mostraram tendões e ligamentos de coloração alaranjada a vermelha, que representam maior rigidez. Não houve diferenças em relação ao membro avaliado; as velocidades de cisalhamento foram maiores nos planos longitudinais. No plano transversal, os ligamentos suspensores foram mais rígidos em comparação aos demais. No plano longitudinal, os ligamentos mostraram-se mais rígidos que os tendões, e o tendão flexor digital profundo, mais rígido que o tendão flexor digital superficial. As estruturas mostraram-se mais rígidas nos machos, e houve uma tendência à maior rigidez em animais mais velhos. A elastografia ARFI comprovou ser um método viável e reprodutível para avaliação dos tendões e ligamentos dos membros torácicos de equinos. As características qualitativas obtidas a partir da rigidez dessas estruturas podem ser utilizadas para testes em equinos com distúrbios musculoesqueléticos e também em outras espécies animais.(AU)

Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) elastography imaging of equine distal forelimb flexor structures / [Elastografia Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) das estruturas flexoras da porção distal do membro torácico de equinos]

This study set out to determine normal values for acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography of the superficial digital flexor tendon, deep digital flexor tendon, accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament in horses. Twenty-four horses were submitted to conventional sonographic assessment and elastography imaging (quantitative ARFI method) of distal forelimb tendons and ligaments at nine anatomical regions. Elastograms depicted tendons and ligaments in orange to red tones consistent with greater stiffness. Shear wave velocity was higher in the longitudinal compared to the cross-sectional plane but did not differ significantly between the left and right forelimbs. The suspensory ligament was stiffer compared to remaining structures in the cross-sectional plane. Ligaments were stiffer than tendons and the deep digital flexor tendon was stiffer than the superficial digital flexor tendon in the longitudinal plane. Target structures were stiffer in male compared to female horses and stiffness tended to increase with age. ARFI elastography proved to be a feasible and reproducible imaging modality for assessment of distal forelimb tendons and ligaments in horses. Qualitative features derived from stiffness quantification in these structures can be applied to horses with musculoskeletal disorders, as well as to other animal species.(AU)

Este trabalho objetivou estabelecer valores de referência por meio da elastografia ARFI ("Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse") do tendão flexor digital superficial, tendão flexor digital profundo, ligamento acessório inferior e ligamento suspensor do boleto em equinos hígidos. Vinte e quatro equinos foram submetidos aos exames ultrassonográfico e elastográfico (método ARFI quantitativo) dos tendões e ligamentos da porção distal do membro torácico, em nove regiões anatômicas diferentes. Os elastogramas mostraram tendões e ligamentos de coloração alaranjada a vermelha, que representam maior rigidez. Não houve diferenças em relação ao membro avaliado; as velocidades de cisalhamento foram maiores nos planos longitudinais. No plano transversal, os ligamentos suspensores foram mais rígidos em comparação aos demais. No plano longitudinal, os ligamentos mostraram-se mais rígidos que os tendões, e o tendão flexor digital profundo, mais rígido que o tendão flexor digital superficial. As estruturas mostraram-se mais rígidas nos machos, e houve uma tendência à maior rigidez em animais mais velhos. A elastografia ARFI comprovou ser um método viável e reprodutível para avaliação dos tendões e ligamentos dos membros torácicos de equinos. As características qualitativas obtidas a partir da rigidez dessas estruturas podem ser utilizadas para testes em equinos com distúrbios musculoesqueléticos e também em outras espécies animais.(AU)

Analgesic and side effects of intravenous recombinant Phα1ß

Intrathecal injection of voltage-sensitive calcium channel blocker peptide toxins exerts analgesic effect in several animal models of pain. Upon intrathecal administration, recombinant Phα1ß exerts the same analgesic effects as the those of the native toxin. However, from a clinical perspective, the intrathecal administration limits the use of anesthetic drugs in patients. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the possible antinociceptive effect of intravenous recombinant Phα1ß in rat models of neuropathic pain, as well as its side effects on motor, cardiac (heart rate and blood pressure), and biochemical parameters. Methods: Male Wistar rats and male Balb-C mice were used in this study. Giotto Biotech® synthesized the recombinant version of Phα1ß using Escherichia coli expression. In rats, neuropathic pain was induced by chronic constriction of the sciatic nerve and paclitaxel-induced acute and chronic pain. Mechanical sensitivity was evaluated using von Frey filaments. A radiotelemeter transmitter (TA11PA-C10; Data Sciences, St. Paul, MN, USA) was placed on the left carotid of mice for investigation of cardiovascular side effects. Locomotor activity data were evaluated using the open-field paradigm, and serum CKMB, TGO, TGP, LDH, lactate, creatinine, and urea levels were examined. Results: Intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1ß toxin induced analgesia for up to 4 h, with ED50 of 0.02 (0.01-0.03) mg/kg, and reached the maximal effect (Emax = 100% antinociception) at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg. No significant changes were observed in any of the evaluated motor, cardiac or biochemical parameters. Conclusion: Our data suggest that intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1ß may be feasible for drug-induced analgesia, without causing any severe side effects.(AU)

Manejo da deformidade flexural congênita em bezerro - aspectos cirúrgicos e patológicos / Management of a congenital flexural deformity in a calf - surgical and pathological aspects

Background: Flexural deformities are anatomical deviations, in varying degrees, of one or more joints, and may have a congenital or acquired origin. Congenital contracture of the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) affects newborn calves and results in hyperflexion of the metacarpal-phalangeal joint, which in severe cases means that the animal must support its own weight on its fetlock joints. The aim of this study is to report the rapid and successful result of applying bilateral total tenotomy technique on a newborn bovine that had been diagnosed with severe bilateral DDFT contracture in the thoracic limbs. Case: A 3-week-old male bovine with a history of difficulty in maintaining a quadrupedal position was attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Tocantins. The animal had severe bilateral locomotor alterations in the thoracic members to the point that he walked on his fetlock joints. The physical examination revealed clinical parameters within the normal range. However, the locomotor system examination showed severe flexor deformity in the bilateral metacarpal-phalangeal joints, and the limbs were being supported on the dorsal face of the fetlock joints, which presented ulcerations, and was suggestive of a shortening of the DDFT. Based on the patient’s history and clinical examination, as well as the severity of the tendon contractures, surgical treatment using the DDFT bilateral total tenotomy technique was decided upon. Postoperative treatment consisted of 2.5 mg/kg of enrofloxacin intramuscularly (IM), SID, for 5 days and 0.5 mg/kg meloxicam via IM, SID, for 3 days; as well as a dressing (cotton, medical bandage and a PVC mold) on the thoracic limbs to provide support and allow the animal to..

Manejo da deformidade flexural congênita em bezerro - aspectos cirúrgicos e patológicos / Management of a congenital flexural deformity in a calf - surgical and pathological aspects

Background: Flexural deformities are anatomical deviations, in varying degrees, of one or more joints, and may have a congenital or acquired origin. Congenital contracture of the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) affects newborn calves and results in hyperflexion of the metacarpal-phalangeal joint, which in severe cases means that the animal must support its own weight on its fetlock joints. The aim of this study is to report the rapid and successful result of applying bilateral total tenotomy technique on a newborn bovine that had been diagnosed with severe bilateral DDFT contracture in the thoracic limbs. Case: A 3-week-old male bovine with a history of difficulty in maintaining a quadrupedal position was attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Tocantins. The animal had severe bilateral locomotor alterations in the thoracic members to the point that he walked on his fetlock joints. The physical examination revealed clinical parameters within the normal range. However, the locomotor system examination showed severe flexor deformity in the bilateral metacarpal-phalangeal joints, and the limbs were being supported on the dorsal face of the fetlock joints, which presented ulcerations, and was suggestive of a shortening of the DDFT. Based on the patients history and clinical examination, as well as the severity of the tendon contractures, surgical treatment using the DDFT bilateral total tenotomy technique was decided upon. Postoperative treatment consisted of 2.5 mg/kg of enrofloxacin intramuscularly (IM), SID, for 5 days and 0.5 mg/kg meloxicam via IM, SID, for 3 days; as well as a dressing (cotton, medical bandage and a PVC mold) on the thoracic limbs to provide support and allow the animal to..(AU)

Analgesic and side effects of intravenous recombinant Ph alfa 1 beta

Background: Intrathecal injection of voltage-sensitive calcium channel blocker peptide toxins exerts analgesic effect in several animal models of pain. Upon intrathecal administration, recombinant Phα1β exerts the same analgesic effects as the those of the native toxin. However, from a clinical perspective, the intrathecal administration limits the use of anesthetic drugs in patients. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the possible antinociceptive effect of intravenous recombinant Phα1β in rat models of neuropathic pain, as well as its side effects on motor, cardiac (heart rate and blood pressure), and biochemical parameters. Methods: Male Wistar rats and male Balb-C mice were used in this study. Giotto Biotech® synthesized the recombinant version of Phα1β using Escherichia coli expression. In rats, neuropathic pain was induced by chronic constriction of the sciatic nerve and paclitaxel-induced acute and chronic pain. Mechanical sensitivity was evaluated using von Frey filaments. A radiotelemeter transmitter (TA11PA-C10; Data Sciences, St. Paul, MN, USA) was placed on the left carotid of mice for investigation of cardiovascular side effects. Locomotor activity data were evaluated using the open-field paradigm, and serum CKMB, TGO, TGP, LDH, lactate, creatinine, and urea levels were examined. Results: Intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1β toxin induced analgesia for up to 4 h, with ED50 of 0.02 (0.01-0.03) mg/kg, and reached the maximal effect (Emax = 100% antinociception) at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg. No significant changes were observed in any of the evaluated motor, cardiac or biochemical parameters. Conclusion: Our data suggest that intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1β may be feasible for drug-induced analgesia, without causing any severe side effects.(AU)