Elevating Omophoita octoguttata elytralis Bechyné, 1956 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini) to species

An updated morphological description for Omophoita elytralis (Bechyné, 1956), stat. nov., is presented, including the first account of the genitalia for this species. The separation Omophoita elytralis from O. octoguttata (Fabricius, 1775) is supported by differences found in the median lobe of males, elytral tegument uniform in color (not patterned), and their allopatric geographical distribution.

Contributions to the taxonomy of the Brazilian Leurus Townes, 1946 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae, Metopiinae)

Leurus Townes, 1946 is a small genus of Metopiinae (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), consisting of 13 described species distributed in the Neotropics and the Nearctic region. The present work aims to contribute to the taxonomic knowledge of Leurus in Brazil. A total of 109 specimens were identified and 15 literature records were analyzed. The genus geographical occurrence was evaluated according to data obtained from the literature and labels of analyzed specimens. Five species of Leurus were identified for the Brazilian fauna: L. angustignathus, L. caeruliventris, L. discus, L. gracius and L. nostrus. New municipality records of occurrence were made for L. angustignathus in the state of São Paulo, L. caeruliventris in the states of Bahia, Distrito Federal, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Paraná, Piauí and Rondônia; for, L. discus in the state of Alagoas and São Paulo, and L. gracius in the state of Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo. Females of L. angustignathus and L. gracius were described for the first time in the present study. The genitalia of males of L. caeruliventris, L. discus and L. gracius were described and illustrated for the first time.

The impact of microplastics on female reproduction and early life

Plastic pollution in our environment is one of the most important global health concerns right now. Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are taken up by both humans and animals, mainly via food and water, and can pass important epithelial barriers. Indications of plastics in the blood circulation have recently been shown in both humans and farm animals, but standardized methods to quantify the exact levels of MNPs to which we are exposed are currently lacking. Potential hazards of MNPs are being investigated very recently, including the impact that MNPs may have on reproduction. However, studies on mammalian reproduction are scarce, but a wealth of data from aquatic species indicates reproductive effects of MNPs. The first studies in rodent models demonstrate that MNPs reach the gonads after oral exposure and may impact offspring after maternal exposure during the gestational period. These effects may arise from the particles themselves or the presence of plastic contaminants that leach from plastics. Plastic contamination has been detected in human placentas, fetal fluid and the meconium of newborns, indicating the presence of plastics from the very first start of life. Currently there is a lack of studies that investigate the impact of MNP exposure during the periconception and embryonic period, whereas this is an extremely sensitive period that needs considerable attention with the growing amount of plastics in our environment.(AU)

Cyp19 expression and sex change timing in captive-bred false clownfish / Expressão de Cyp19 e o período da mudança de sexo em peixes-palhaço falsos criados em cativeiro

The false clown anemonefish (Amphiprion ocellaris) is a protandrous hermaphrodite with a distinctive reproductive behavior. This study elucidates the genetic mechanisms and timing of sex changes in captive-bred A. ocellaris by examining the expression of key genes involved in this process, specifically cyp19a1a and cyp19a1b. Gonadal histological analyses and gene expression studies were conducted on subadult fish paired for 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 16 months. Our findings reveal that alterations in cyp19 gene expression coincide with a pairing period starting after 3 months. Both cyp19a1a and cyp19a1b expression levels were significantly elevated in paired females compared with their male counterparts and unpaired controls. Histological investigations demonstrated that sex conversion to females occurred during the 3-month pairing period. This study highlights the crucial role of cyp19a1a and cyp19a1b in the sex change process of A. ocellaris and indicates that a minimum of 5 months of pairing is necessary for completing the sex change.

O peixe-palhaço falso (Amphiprion ocellaris) é um hermafrodita protândrico com um comportamento reprodutivo distintivo. Este estudo esclarece os mecanismos genéticos e o período das mudanças de sexo em A. ocellaris criados em cativeiro, examinando a expressão de genes-chave envolvidos nesse processo, especificamente cyp19a1a e cyp19a1b. Análises histológicas gonadais e estudos de expressão gênica foram conduzidos em peixes subadultos emparelhados por 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 e 16 meses. Os resultados revelam que alterações na expressão do gene cyp19 coincidem com um período de emparelhamento a partir de 3 meses. Os níveis de expressão de cyp19a1a e cyp19a1b foram significativamente elevados em fêmeas emparelhadas em comparação com seus homólogos masculinos e controles não-emparelhados. Investigações histológicas demonstraram que a conversão sexual para fêmeas ocorreu durante o período de emparelhamento de 3 meses. Este estudo destaca o papel crucial de cyp19a1a e cyp19a1b no processo de mudança de sexo de A. ocellaris e indica que um mínimo de 5 meses de emparelhamento é necessário para concluir a mudança de sexo.

Histology and histochemistry of the accessory gland of the female reproductive tract of Rhodnius neglectus Lent, 1954 (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) / Histologia e histoquímica das glândulas acessórias do sistema reprodutor feminino de Rhodnius neglectus Lent, 1954 (Hemiptera: Reduviidae)

Rhodnius neglectus is a wild triatomine, vector of the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas' disease, and feeds on the blood of small mammals, being essential for its growth and reproduction. Accessory glands of the female reproductive tract are important in insect reproduction, but their anatomy and histology in R. neglectus are poorly studied. The aim of this work was to describe the histology and histochemistry of the accessory gland of the female reproductive tract of R. neglectus. The reproductive tract of five females of R. neglectus was dissected and the accessory glands transferred to Zamboni's fixative solution, dehydrated in a crescent series of ethanol, embedded in historesin, sectioned at 2 µm thick, stained with toluidine blue for histological analysis or mercury bromophenol blue for detection of total proteins. The accessory gland R. neglectus is tubular, without branches, opening in the dorsal region of the vagina and differing along its length in proximal and distal regions. In the proximal region, the gland is lined by the cuticle with a layer of columnar cells associated with muscle fibers. In the distal region of the gland, the epithelium has spherical secretory cells with terminal apparatus and conducting canaliculi opening in the lumen through pores in the cuticle. Proteins were identified in the gland lumen, terminal apparatus, nucleus and cytoplasm of secretory cells. The histology of the R. neglectus gland is similar to that found in other species of this genus, but with variations in the shape and size of its distal region.

Rhodnius neglectus é um triatomíneo silvestre, vetor do protozoário Trypanosoma cruzi, causador da doença de Chagas. Este inseto se alimenta do sangue de pequenos mamíferos, que é essencial para o seu crescimento e reprodução. As glândulas acessórias do sistema reprodutor feminino são importantes na reprodução de insetos, mas sua anatomia e histologia em R. neglectus são pouco conhecidas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever a histologia e histoquímica da glândula acessória do aparelho reprodutor feminino de R. neglectus. O sistema reprodutor de cinco fêmeas de R. neglectus foi dissecado e as glândulas acessórias transferidas para solução fixadora de Zamboni, desidratadas em série crescente de etanol, embebidas em historesina, seccionadas com 2 µm de espessura, coradas com azul de toluidina para análise histológica ou submetidas ao teste de mercúrio-bromofenol para detecção de proteínas totais. O sistema reprodutor de R. neglectus tem uma glândula acessória tubular, sem ramificações, abrindo-se na região dorsal da vagina, sendo diferenciada em regiões proximal e distal. Na região proximal, a glândula é revestida internamente pela cutícula com uma camada de células colunares associadas a fibras musculares. Na região distal ocorrem células secretoras esféricas com aparato terminal e canalículos condutores que se abrem no lúmen da glândula através de poros na cutícula. O teste histoquímico revelou a presença de proteínas no lúmen da glândula e no aparato terminal, núcleo e citoplasma das células secretoras. A histologia da glândula de R. neglectus é semelhante à das espécies desse gênero, mas com variações na forma e no tamanho de sua região distal.

A new species of Dilophochila Bates, 1888 with comments on natural history and distribution of the genus (Coleoptera: Melolonthidae: Rutelinae)

A new species, Dilophochila glabrasp. nov. is described from the Sierra Norte, Oaxaca, Mexico. Diagnosis and im-ages (dorsal, lateral and ventral habitus, and genitalia) of the taxonomic characters are provided. Affinities with their clos-est congeners and the general distribution pattern of the genus are discussed, considering that it presents a typical Mountain Paleoamerican sub-pattern. The modifications in the mouthparts of this genus due to the specialization in the intake of pine needles are commented, as well as in two other different taxa within Anomalini.(AU)

Occurrence of intersexuality in Mugil curema from an estuary of the North coast of Santa Catarina, Brazil - case report / Ocorrência de intersexualidade em Mugil curema em estuário do litoral norte catarinense, Brasil - relato de caso

This study describes the occurrence of reproductive changes in a mullet (Mugil curema) from the Babibtonga Bay, Santa Catarina. Gross and microscopic findings indicated changes in the reproductive system that were characterized by the presence of both male and female gonads, nearing sexual maturity, which was compatible with the diagnosis of intersex. It was not possible to identify predisposing factors that may have contributed to the development of this condition. However, as this species of fish may have their reproductive development affected by anthropogenic influence, it is important to permanently monitor this kind of environment. Considering the number of fish belonging to this species that was examined (n=433), the estimated prevalence for intersexuality was 0.23% (confidence interval: 0.00 to 0.68%, with confidence level of 95%). The findings in this study support the diagnosis of intersexuality in M. curema from the Babitonga Bay, which is the first documented case of this condition in this species on the coast of Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Este estudo descreve a ocorrência de alteração reprodutiva em peixe da espécie Mugil curema, procedente da Baía da Babitonga, Santa Catarina. Macro e microscopicamente, foi identificada alteração no sistema reprodutivo, caracterizada pela presença de gônadas masculina e feminina, próximas da maturidade sexual, caracterizando um caso de intersexo. Não foi possível determinar os fatores que possam ter contribuído para o desenvolvimento dessa alteração reprodutiva, porém, como a espécie animal pode ter suas características de vida e reprodutiva influenciadas pela ação antrópica, é importante um estudo contínuo desses peixes nesse ambiente. Considerando o número de peixes dessa espécie que foram examinados (n=433), a prevalência estimada de intersexualidade foi de 0,23% (intervalo de confiança: 0,00 a 0,68%, com nível de confiança de 95%). Os achados deste estudo suportam o diagnóstico de intersexualidade em M. curema proveniente da Baía da Babitonga, sendo o primeiro caso documentado dessa condição nessa espécie na costa de Santa Catarina, Brasil.

Hypospadias in two cats: case report / Hipospadia em dois gatos: relato de caso

Hypospadias is an uncommon sexual development disorder in cats, in which the urethral opening is not in its anatomical location on the penis. The purpose of this report is to describe two cases of hypospadias in the feline species. The first cat was asymptomatic, had a history of bacterial cystitis, and was diagnosed with perineal hypospadias at an appointment for preoperative evaluation of orchiectomy. The second cat had clinical signs of dysuria and pollakiuria for 30 days and had glandular hypospadias. Both cats showed abnormalities in the urinalysis which were suggestive of lower urinary tract disease. For both cases, clinical treatment with antibiotic therapy was performed. In the first patient, surgical treatment consisted of orchiectomy, while in the second animal a perineal urethrostomy and orchiectomy were performed. The cats had a satisfactory recovery after the treatments. Performing a thorough physical examination is essential to diagnose cases of hypospadias and choose the best treatment for each patient.

A hipospadia é uma desordem do desenvolvimento sexual pouco comum nos gatos, na qual a abertura uretral não está em sua localização anatômica do pênis. O objetivo do presente relato é descrever dois casos de hipospadia em felinos domésticos. O primeiro gato era assintomático, tinha histórico de cistite bacteriana prévio, e foi diagnosticado com hipospadia perineal em uma consulta para avaliação pré-cirúrgica de orquiectomia. O segundo gato apresentava sinais clínicos de disúria e polaquiúria há 30 dias e apresentava hipospadia glandular. A partir dos exames complementares, pôde-se observar que os animais, além do defeito anatômico, apresentavam alterações sugestivas de doença do trato urinário inferior. Para ambos os casos, foi realizado o tratamento clínico inicial com antibioticoterapia. No primeiro paciente, optou-se pelo procedimento de orquiectomia, enquanto no segundo animal foram realizadas as técnicas de uretrostomia perineal e orquiectomia. Os gatos mostraram recuperação satisfatória após os tratamentos instituídos. Dessa forma, pode-se observar a importância de se realizar um exame físico minucioso a fim de diagnosticar os casos de hipospadia e escolher o tratamento correto para cada paciente.

Immune response dynamics of recent and chronic small ruminant lentivirus infection in the male reproductive system / Dinâmica da resposta imunológica da infecção recente e crônica por lentivírus de pequenos ruminantes no sistema reprodutor de machos

The objective of this study was to analyze the immune responses of bucks to small ruminant lentivirus (SRLV) with a focus on the reproductive system of males with recent and chronic infection. A total of 12 bucks were selected, six seronegative and six seropositive with chronic natural infection for more than 18 months (chronic infection group). After selecting the animals, the six seronegative males were intravenously inoculated with caprine arthritis-encephalitis virus (CAEV)-Co viral strain at a titer of 10-5,6 TCID50/mL. After viral inoculation, this group was called the recent infection group and was monitored weekly with the chronically infected group for 180 days with blood serum and seminal plasma Western Blot (WB) analysis. Of the animals with chronic SRLV infection, 18.94% (50/264) showed anti-SRLV antibodies in at least one of the samples, and 81.06% (214/264) were negative. Anti-SRLV antibodies were detected in 27.27% (36/132) of the blood serum samples from this group, while 10.60% (14/132) were reactive in the seminal plasma WB test. The animals inoculated with CAEV-Co became seropositive after the third week of viral inoculation. In this group, 31.06% (41/132) of seminal plasma samples had anti-SRLV antibodies, and of these, 70.73% (29/41) coincided with blood serum results. Of the remaining 29.27% (12/41), the seminal plasma sample of only three animals (RIA2, RIA3, and RIA5) had anti-SRLV antibodies. One of the animals with a recent infection presented anti-SRLV antibodies only in seminal plasma samples, possibly due to virus compartmentalization. Intermittent viral shedding was observed in both biological samples, regardless of the infection stage. The immune response in bucks with recent SRLV infection is more significant than in chronically infected animals. Regardless of the stage of infection, there is a fluctuation in antibody levels, therefore, this creates a risk of false-negative samples when performing the diagnosis.

O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar a resposta imunológica aos lentivírus de pequenos ruminantes (LVPR) com enfoque no sistema reprodutor de machos com infecção recente e crônica. Para isso, foram selecionados 12 reprodutores caprinos, sendo seis soronegativos e seis soropositivos com infecção natural crônica há mais de 18 meses (grupo com infecção crônica). Após seleção dos animais, os seis machos soronegativos foram inoculados com a cepa viral do vírus da artrite encefalite caprina (CAEV)-Co, título 10-5,6 TCID50/mL, por via intravenosa. A partir da inoculação viral este agrupamento passou a ser denominado de grupo com infecção recente e juntamente com o grupo com infecção crônica foram acompanhados, semanalmente por 180 dias, com análise dos testes de Western Blot (WB) no soro sanguíneo e plasma seminal. Nos animais com infecção crônica para LVPR, 18,94% (50/264) apresentaram anticorpos anti-LVPR em pelo menos uma das distintas amostras, e 81,06% (214/264) tiveram resultados negativos. Das amostras de soro sanguíneo do referido grupo, em 27,27% (36/132) detectou-se anticorpos anti-LVPR, enquanto que no plasma seminal 10,60% (14/132) foram reagentes no teste de WB. Nos animais inoculados com o CAEV-Co, ocorreu a soroconversão após a terceira semana da inoculação viral. Nesse grupo, 31,06% (41/132) das amostras de plasma seminal tiveram anticorpos anti-LVPR, sendo que dessas 41, 70,73% (29/41) coincidiram com resultado das amostras de soro sanguíneo. Nos 29,27% (12/41) restante, houve a detecção somente no plasma seminal e eram amostras provenientes de três animais (AIR2, AIR3 e AIR5). Em um dos animais com infecção recente, só foi identificado anticorpos anti-LVPR em amostras de plasma seminal, possivelmente em função da compartimentalização do vírus. Intermitência viral foi observada em ambas as amostras biológicas, independentemente do estágio de infecção. Conclui-se que a resposta imunológica em reprodutores com infecção recente LVPR é mais acentuada do que em animais cronicamente infectados. E, independentemente do estágio da infecção há uma flutuação nos níveis de anticorpos, sendo, portanto, um fator de risco, em virtude da existência de amostras falso-negativo ao realizar o diagnóstico.

Epididymal primary mast cell tumor in a dog

Background: In the literature, there are a few descriptions of epididymis neoplasia in domestic animals, especially considering primary tumors. In the few reports found in literature, the lesions were a consequence of the invasion of testicular or paratesticular neoplasia, as a papillar carcinoma in a dog's and a bull's epididymis, and mesenchymal tumors - fibrome/ fibrosarcoma, leiomyoma/leiosarcome. On the other hand, mast cell tumors are the second most prevalent neoplasia in dogs in Brazil, affecting especially the skin. The aim of this report is to describe for the first time a low malignancy mast cell tumor in a mixed-breed dog's epididymis, without metastasis or recurrence in a 2-year follow-up period. Case: A 10-year-old male mixed-breed dog was presented for pre-surgical evaluation for elective orchiectomy. In the physical examination, an increase in the volume of approximately 2 cm with an irregular appearance was identified on palpation in the cranial pole of the left testis. In the trans surgical period, an increase in testicular volume (4 cm long x 2 cm wide) was observed, with a firm consistency in the region of the vas deferens with macroscopic changes in the region. The testis was sectioned, and the fragments were sent for histopathological evaluation in 10% buffered formaldehyde. There was a fairly cellular circumscribed neoplastic infiltrate, distributed in a sheet and separated by fibrovascular stroma, and rounded neoplastic cells with a moderate amount of basophilic cytoplasmic granulation, and discrete anisocytosis and anisokaryosis. The nuclei were rounded with vesicular chromatin with 1 or 2 distinct nucleoli. No mitosis figures were observed in 10 high power fields (400x). Few eosinophils were distributed throughout the neoplastic cell population. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated immunostaining for KIT protein with perimembranous staining in 95% of neoplastic mast cells, giving a KIT 1 pattern. There was no positive nuclear staining for Ki67 in any cell of the histological sections examined. A grade II mast cell tumor (low grade of malignancy) was diagnosed. After diagnosis, the animal underwent radiographic evaluation of the chest and abdominal ultrasound, and a new physical inspection in search of nodules, plaques, skin lesions, or subcutaneous masses. There were no metastases in the thorax and abdominal cavity, nor physical alterations, and it can be inferred that the epididymis was the primary site of the mast cell tumor. After 2 years of orchiectomy, there were no recurrences, and no chemotherapy treatment was performed. Discussion: Extracutaneous mast cell tumors are uncommon in animals, but have been reported in oral and nasal mucosa, nasopharynx, larynx, trachea, intestine, visceral lymph nodes, spleen, liver, spinal cord, intestine, ureter, conjunctiva, lung and more recently in tear gland of the third eyelid. However, in the authors' assessment, this is the first description of mast cell tumor in the epididymis in dogs. The diagnosis was established by histopathological examination, which revealed a grade II epididymal mast cell tumor and immunohistochemical evaluation (KIT and Ki-67) as being of low aggressiveness. The diagnosis of a primary tumor was confirmed since the staging was established after the histopathological diagnosis, involving chest radiography, abdominal ultrasound, cutaneous evaluation in search of nodules, plaques, cutaneous and subcutaneous lesions, and did not reveal other abnormalities or metastases not identified in the preoperative evaluation. In addition, immunostaining with KIT and Ki-67 reaffirmed the low degree of malignancy and the potential for metastases, which can be observed by the asymptomatic follow-up of the patient 2 years after the surgical excision.

Diagnosis of transmissible venereal tumors in bitches - platelet indices are a remarkable marker?

Background: Hematological analyses are seen as more preferred laboratory analyses in canine transmissible venereal tumor studies. There is no information about the availability of platelets and their indices in routine practice in canine transmissible venereal tumor cases. Taking this as a starting point, this study analyzed the usefulness of platelet indices in dogs with transmissible venereal tumor in clinical laboratory diagnosis as well as examined the relationship between white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets (PLT), main platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), plateletcrit (PCT), and the ratio of main platelet volume to platelets (MPV/PLT). Materials, Methods & Results: In the study, a total of 42 bitches of various breeds were used. Nineteen healthy bitches were used as a control group, and the others 23 with cTVT as a study group. Metastasis was not observed in any of the bitches involved in the study. History, clinical findings, and cytological examinations were evaluated for the diagnosis of cTVT. In animals with hemorrhagic discharge and neoplastic lesions, a vaginal cytological examination was performed. Typical TVT cells with large nuclei and intracytoplasmic vacuoles were observed in the vaginal cytological examinations, and the diagnosis of TVT was made. Healthy bitches (19) and those with TVT (23) were 39.16 5.37 months and 47.61 5.14 months old, respectively. From all animals, 2 mL blood samples were collected from V. cephalica to evaluate PIs in the complete blood count (CBC). Collected blood samples were analyzed using an automated hematology analyzer. As a result of the analysis, WBC, RBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, MCHC, RDW, PLT, MPV, PDW, PCT, and MPV/PLT data were obtained. Mild leukocytosis, an increase in PLT, and a decrease in MCV and MPV/PLT were determined in the study group compared to the control group. Cut-off values in CBC of bitches with TVT were determined as WBC: 13.35 (sensitivity: 78%; specificity: 90%); MCV: 67 (sensitivity: 57%; specificity: 95%); PLT: 315.50 (sensitivity: 65%; specificity: 74%); and MPV/PLT: 0.028 (sensitivity: 78%; specificity: 58%). In CBC analyses, a strong negative correlation between PLT and MPV/PLT was detected in both groups. Discussion: Canine transmissible venereal tumors are common in both stray and pet dogs. It is naturally transferred from animal to animal during mating by live tumor cells. This tumor can commonly affect the external genitalia and internal organs in some cases. It generally has the look of cauliflower, and its surface is ulcerated, inflammatory, hemorrhagic, and infectious. More preferred laboratory analyses are complete blood count and blood chemistry analysis in cTVT for to evaluate the success of treatments. Platelet indices have been investigated in many diseases such as endotoxemia, chronic enteropathy, mammary tumor, parvoviral enteritis, septic peritonitis, lymphoma, pyometra, visceral leishmaniasis, and babesiosis in dogs. There is no information available for either diagnostic or prognostic use of the PIs in canine TVT cases. Ultimately, in light of the presented study's results, platelet indices, especially PLT and the MPV/PLT ratio, seem to be notable laboratory markers in terms of easy accessibility and low-cost assessment techniques in canine transmissible venereal tumor cases. New data, however, should be established by a thorough follow-up study using a larger sample size and addressing its usefulness as a diagnostic or prognostic marker in canine transmissible venereal tumors.

Hermafroditismo verdadeiro na espécie suína / True hermaphroditism in the swine specie

Os hermafroditas verdadeiros são animais com intersexualidade, nos quais as gônadas masculinas e femininas se desenvolvem simultaneamente no mesmo indivíduo. Este trabalho relata um caso de hermafrodita na espécie suína após descarte de uma fêmea por diagnóstico de anestro. Tratava-se de uma fêmea com 222 dias de idade e 150 kg a qual havia sido selecionada para reprodução e permanecia em anestro. O indivíduo foi descartado e enviado para o abate em frigorífico sob inspeção federal. Após o abate foi observado no sistema genital aspectos anatômicos sugestivos de hermafroditismo. O sistema genital foi coletado, inspecionado macroscopicamente e conservado em formol a 10% para avaliação microscópica. Durante a análise macroscópica foi verificada a presença de vulva e vagina, contendo um pênis rudimentar. O útero, a cérvix, os cornos uterinos e oviduto estavam presentes e com ausência de anormalidade. Havia um ovário esquerdo com aspectos morfológicos de ciclicidade e folículos contendo oócitos de alta qualidade. À direita, entretanto, foi constatada a presença de um testículo, epidídimo e plexo pampiniforme. A avaliação histopatológica comprovou os achados macroscópicos, demonstrando um ovário contendo folículos, corpos lúteos e cistos foliculares; plexo pampiniforme; testículo e epidídimo com aspecto histológico normal, porém, com ausência de células espermatogênicas. Assim, com base nos achados macro e microscópicos descritos nesse relato de caso, o indivíduo foi considerado como hermafrodita verdadeiro.(AU)

True hermaphrodites are intersexual animals, in which both male and female gonads develop simultaneously in the same individual. This paper reports a case of a true hermaphrodite in the swine species after its culling for anestrus. The specimen was a female of 222 days of age and 150 kg of body weight, that was selected for reproduction and was permanently in anestrus. This individual was culled and sent to an abattoir under federal inspection. After slaughtering, it was observed in the reproductive tract anatomical aspects that suggested hermaphroditism. The reproductive tract was collected, evaluated macroscopically, and preserved in formaldehyde at 10 % to be evaluated by light microscopy. During the macroscopic analysis, the presence of a vulva and a vagina with a rudimentary penis was detected. The uterus, the cervix, uterine horns, and the oviduct were present and abnormalities were not detected. The left ovary exhibited morphological signs of cyclicity and contained follicles with high quality oocytes. On the right side, however, it was observed a testicle, epididymis, and a pampiniform plexus. The histopathological assessment corroborated the macroscopic findings, which demonstrated that the ovary had follicles, corpus luteum, and follicular cysts, and pampiniform plexus, testicle and epididymis were histologically normal, though with the absence of spermatogenic cells. Thus, based on the macro and microscopic findings described herein, the individual was considered a true hermaphrodite.(AU)

Morphological and morphometric characterization of the preputial ostium, internal preputial leaflet, and free part of the penises of Aberdeen Angus and Nellore bulls / [Caracterização morfológica e morfométrica do óstio prepucial, do folheto prepucial interno e da parte livre do pênis de touros Aberdeen Angus e Nelore]

The morphological characteristics of the external genitalia of the bull may contribute to the etiopathogenesis of preputial diseases that trigger the impotence coeundi and losses in farms. The goal of this study was to establish morphometric parameters of the preputial ostium, the internal preputial leaflet (IPL), the free part and glans of the penis; describe the histological characteristics of the IPL; perform a count of the preputial sebaceous glands and compare these variables between 24-month-old Aberdeen Angus and Nellore bulls. At the slaughterhouse, 20 preputial pieces were collected from each breed. A device composed of base, rod, ring, and funnel was designed to hold each suspended and distended part. The IPL, the free part of the penis and the glans were measured. The ostium diameter was measured, and the radius, perimeter, and area of the preputial ostium were calculated. Samples were collected from the dorsal and ventral regions and from the cranial, medial, and caudal portions of the IPL. By electronic and optical microscopy, IPL characterization and sebaceous gland counts were performed. Analysis of variance was performed using the F test at 5%. It was concluded that Nellore bulls have a more extensive IPL and free part of the penis and more preputial sebaceous glands than Aberdeen Angus bulls. In both breeds, there are more glands in the ventral region of the ostium.

As características morfológicas da genitália externa do touro podem contribuir para a etiopatogenia de enfermidades prepuciais que desencadeiam a impotência coeundi e prejuízos nos criatórios. O objetivo deste estudo foi estabelecer parâmetros morfométricos do óstio prepucial, do folheto prepucial interno (FPI), da parte livre e da glande do pênis; descrever as características histológicas do FPI; realizar contagem de glândulas sebáceas prepuciais; e comparar essas variáveis entre touros Aberdeen Angus e Nelore, com 24 meses de idade. No abatedouro, colheram-se 20 peças prepuciais de cada raça. Elaborou-se um dispositivo composto por base, haste, anel e funil para sustentar cada peça suspensa e distendida. Realizou-se medição do FPI, da parte livre do pênis e da glande. Aferiu-se diâmetro do óstio, e calculou-se o raio, o perímetro e a área do óstio prepucial. Colheram-se amostras nas regiões dorsal e ventral e das porções cranial, medial e caudal do FPI. Por microscopia eletrônica e óptica, fez-se a caracterização do FPI e a contagem de glândulas sebáceas. Realizou-se análise de variância pelo teste F a 5%. Concluiu-se que touros Nelore possuem o FPI e a parte livre do pênis mais extensos e mais glândulas sebáceas prepuciais que touros Aberdeen Angus. Nas duas raças, há mais glândulas na região ventral do óstio.

Avaliação andrológica no garanhão: ênfase no exame interno do sistema genital / Breeding soundness examination in stallions: emphasis on internal assessment of the genital system

A avaliação do sistema genital interno no garanhão é uma importante etapa do exame andrológico, mas ainda é negligenciada na clínica reprodutiva dessa espécie. A maioria das enfermidades que acometem as glândulas sexuais acessórias e a uretra são descritas na literatura como pouco frequentes e até mesmo raras, no entanto a falta de diagnóstico, em muitos casos, contribui para essa estatística. Dentre as enfermidades mais recorrentes se destacam a vesiculite seminal, obstrução de ampola e fistula uretral que podem levar a prejuízos na qualidade seminal e baixa fertilidade. Dessa forma, o objetivo desta revisão é abordar as principais ferramentas de avaliação dos órgãos genitais internos nos machos equinos, visando contribuir para o correto diagnóstico e tratamento das principais afecções que os acometem.(AU)

The evaluation of the internal genital system in stallions is an important step in the breeding soundness exam that is still neglected in the reproductive clinic of this species. Most diseases that affect the accessory sex glands and the urethra are described in the literature as infrequent and even rare, however the lack of diagnosis, in many cases, contributes to this statistic. Among the most recurrent diseases are seminal vesiculitis, plugged ampullae and urethral rent that can lead to decreased seminal quality and low fertility. Thus, the objective of this review is to highlight the main tools for evaluating the internal genitalia in stallions, aiming to contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of the main conditions that affect them.(AU)

Comparação de métodos de sexagem em filhotes de serpentes da espécie Python brongersmai / Comparing methods of sex identification in Python brongersmai snakelets

Com a ascensão de animais exóticos no mercado pet, observou-se a necessidade de maiores estudos nesta área. Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar diferentes métodos de sexagem em filhotes de serpentes da espécie Python brongersmai (Bloody Python), sendo utilizados 14 filhotes com aproximadamente 1 ano e 9 meses de vida, oriundos do Criadouro Comercial de Fauna Silvestre e Exótica ­ CCF, autorização de manejo N° 414064, localizado no município de Cornélio Procópio ­ PR. Foi utilizado a introdução da probe metálica de sexagem para contagem de escamas, mensurações do Comprimento Rostro-Cloacal (CRC), Comprimento Pós-Cloacal (CPC), Comprimento Total (CT); avaliação ultrassonográfica dos órgãos reprodutivos e perfil genético (DNA), indicando a fidedignidade de cada um. Observou-se uma eficácia de 100% na determinação do sexo através das amostras de DNA, enquanto a sexagem a partir da contagem de escamas via probe metálica e o dimorfismo sexual por mensurações corporais permitiram apenas uma classificação sexual prévia, sofrendo variações quando comparadas, mostrando-se como métodos inconclusivos. Já a ultrassonografia não foi eficaz para o processo de sexagem em serpentes filhotes de até aproximadamente 1 ano e 9 meses de idade da espécie Python brongersmai.(AU)

With the increment of exotic animal's trade in the pet business, the necessity of more studies in this area was observed. This study aimed at comparing different methods of sex identification in Python brongersmai snakelets (Bloody Python), using 14 baby snakes aged 1 year and 9 months approximately, from commercial breeding of wild and exotic fauna, situated in Cornélio Procópio ­ PR. Methods used were the probing technique introduction, measurement of snout-vent length, post-vent length, total length; ultrasound evaluation of reproductive organs and genetic profile exam (DNA samples), denoting the veracity of each one. A 100% efficacy was observed in the study of sexual determination through DNA samples, while the other methods were shown to be inconclusive, whilst the sexing scale count via the probing technique introduction and sexual dimorphism by bodily measurements permitted only a previous sexual classification, suffering variations when compared, showing to be inconclusive methods. The ultrasound evaluation was not efficient for the sexing process in snakelets aged approximately 1 year and 9 months in Python brongersmai.(AU)

Redescription of Pelecorhynchus kroeberi (Lindner), a Patagonian species rediscovered after more than 100 years in Chile (Diptera: Pelecorhynchidae)

An adult female of Pelecorhynchus kroeberi (Lindner, 1925) is newly recollected after more than 100 years and it is herein redescribed, including, for the first time, illustrations of genitalia. The specimen was collected in the Región de Aysén, Provincia de Aysén (46°40'11.9″S, 74°00'54.0″W), in the extreme south of Chile, and the specimen is deposited in the Entomological Collection of Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, Santiago, Chile.(AU)

Agents causing genital infections in routine cytological tests: frequency and characteristics of Papanicolaou smears / Agentes causadores de infecções genitais em exames citológicos de rotina: frequência e características dos esfregaços de papanicolaou

Urinary tract infections are responsible for most human infections, these are caused by bacteria, fungi, protozoa and associated microorganisms. The goal of this study was to determine the rate of vaginal infection-causing agents in routine cytological exams and also to evaluate the characteristics of positive tested Pap smears. A retrospective documental with descriptive aspect research was performed in a Clinical Pathology laboratory from Maceió-AL. The results of the Pap smears exams for Trichomonas vaginalis, Gardnerella vaginalis, Candida spp and HPV were arranged in a database as well as other data such as bacterial, protozoan, fungal and viral coinfections. The sample was composed by 18.645 women who have undergone Pap smear exams from 2013 to 2017. Of these analyzed exams, 27.4% in 2013, 10.9% in 2014, 10.6% in 2015, 15.2% in 2016 and 13.67% in 2017 were within normal range, however more than half of these exams presented some infections caused by unspecific or microbiological agents. By analyzing all the reports, 4.073 (21.84%) presented inflammations caused by some species of infectious agent with the following rate order: G. vaginalis and T. vaginalis. Furthermore, it was possible to confirm high rates of coinfection by and Candida spp. The rate of genital infections in this study highlights that there is a public health matter that must be controlled, which points a greater need for monitoring, guidance and actions towards greater awareness in order to prevent these problems.

Infecções do trato urinário são responsáveis pela maior parte das infecções humanas, sendo causadas por bactérias, fungos, protozoários, e por microrganismos associados. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a frequência de agentes causadores de infecções vaginais nos exames citológicos de rotina, bem como avaliar as características dos esfregaços positivos. Foi realizada uma pesquisa do tipo documental retrospectiva de aspecto descritivo, com abordagem quantitativa, em um Laboratório de Patologia Clínica de Maceió-AL. Nesse sentido, os resultados dos exames colpocitológicos para Trichomonas vaginalis, Gardnerella vaginalis, Candida spp e HPV foram organizados em um banco de dados, contendo os resultados para estes agentes, bem como a coinfecção bacteriana, protozoária, fúngica e viral. A amostra foi composta por 18.645 mulheres que realizaram exame colpocitológico, no período de 2013 a 2017. Destes exames analisados 27,4% em 2013, 10,9% em 2014, 10,6% em 2015, 15,2% em 2016 e 13,67% em 2017, estavam dentro do limite da normalidade, porém mais que a metade desses exames analisados apresentou algumas infecções causadas por agentes inespecíficos ou microbiológicos. Do total de laudos analisados, 4.073 (21,84%), apresentaram inflamações causadas por algum tipo de agente infeccioso, com a seguinte ordem de frequência: G. vaginalis, e T. vaginalis. Além disto, foi possível confirmar a elevada frequência de coinfecção entre G. vaginalis e Candida spp. Os índices de infecções genitais nesse trabalho mostram que há um problema de saúde pública que deve ser controlado, apontando uma necessidade maior de acompanhamento, orientações e de ações para uma maior conscientização para prevenir esses problemas.

Canine transmissible venereal tumor with spontaneous remission: case study with emphasis on clinical and cytopathological exams to monitor tumor evolution / Tumor venéreo transmissível canino com remissão espontânea: estudo de caso com ênfase aos exames clínico e citopatológico para monitoramento da evolução tumoral

The canine transmissible venereal tumor (TVTC) is a neoplasm transmitted mainly through copulation and with a high incidence in stray dogs in Brazil. In the process of tumor evolution of TVTC, the progression, stationary and regression phases are recognized. The host immunity is related to the disease's biological behavior, however, spontaneous regression observation in cases of naturally occurring TVTC is uncommon. A canine patient was attended, after beeing rescued from the street, due to an ulcerated mass in the external genitália and tick infestation. Cytopathological examination, which diagnosed TVTC, and laboratory tests that showed mild anemia and severe thrombocytopenia were performed. In view of the impossibility of carrying out other exams, it was made the presumptive diagnosis of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME), and treatment was instituted. During follow-up it was observed quick improvement in clinical signs and laboratory changes, as well as a reduction in tumor mass. A new cytopathological evaluation was carried out, and was verified increase in mature lymphocytes and plasmocytes in the midst of the tumor cells, finding compatible with the stationary phase of the disease. From that moment on, it was decided to perform only clinical and cytopathological follow-up. In the following evaluations, continuous clinical remission and cytopathological findings compatible with those described in the regression phase were observed, until its complete remission. It is considered that the improvement in the general health of the patient after the treatment of CME is related to the spontaneous regression of TVTC, and that simultaneous performance of serial clinical and cytopathological exams may be feasible and useful for monitoring the stages of evolution of TVTC.

O tumor venéreo transmissível canino (TVTC) é uma neoplasia transmitida principalmente através da cópula, com elevada incidência em cães errantes no Brasil. No processo de evolução tumoral do TVTC, são reconhecidas as fases de progressão, estacionária e de regressão. O estado imunológico do hospedeiro está relacionado ao comportamento biológico da doença, contudo, a observação de regressão espontânea em casos de TVTC de ocorrência natural é incomum. Foi atendida uma paciente canina, resgatada da rua, por apresentar massa ulcerada na genitália externa e infestação por carrapatos. Foram realizados exame citopatológico, que diagnosticou TVTC, e exames laboratoriais que evidenciaram anemia discreta e grave trombocitopenia. Com isso e diante da impossibilidade de realizar outros exames, foi também estabelecido o diagnóstico presuntivo de erlichiose monocítica canina (EMC) e instituído tratamento para a hemoparasitose. Durante o acompanhamento, foi observada rápida melhora dos sinais clínicos e das alterações laboratoriais, bem como a redução espontânea da massa tumoral. Em sequência, foi realizada nova avaliação citopatológica do TVTC e verificado o aumento quantitativo de linfócitos maduros e plasmócitos, em meio as células tumorais, achado compatível com a fase estacionária da doença. A partir desse momento, optou-se por realizar apenas acompanhamento clínico e avaliação citopatológica da neoplasia. Foram observados contínua remissão clínica e achados microscópicos compatíveis com a fase de regressão do tumor, até sua remissão completa. Pondera-se que a melhora na saúde geral da paciente após o tratamento da EMC esteja relacionada à regressão espontânea do TVTC, e que realização simultânea de exames clínico e citopatológico seriados pode ser viável e útil ao acompanhamento das fases de evolução do TVTC.

Metastatic vulvar squamous cell carcinoma in a mare

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common cutaneous neoplasm in horses, which mainly affects the external genitalia, oral cavity, and periocular region. The development of SCC metastases is rare in these animals, and the most common occurrence is a marked local infiltration. Exposure to ultraviolet rays and skin depigmentation are the main etiological factors of SCC. Definitive diagnosis of the neoplasm is performed through histological examination of lesions. The present report describes the clinical, anatomopathological, and immunohistochemical (IHC) aspects of a case of metastatic SCC, with the vulva as the primary site in a mare. Case: A 17-year-old mare, mixed breed, was referred to the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), with history of areas of depigmented skin (pinto coat), and clinical history of anorexia, frequent episodes of colic, and recumbency. During clinical evaluation, heart rate (68 bpm), rectal temperature (38.4ºC), and respiratory rate (48 mpm) were elevated, and the oral mucosa was pale. The mare also had an ulcerated tumor mass involving the vulva, which extended to the inguinal region and involved the mammary gland. A cytological aspirate of the vulvar tumor was performed, in which no neoplastic cells were found. Next, a biopsy of 2 distinct areas of the vulva was performed. The material was sent for anatomopathological examination, which showed markedly pleomorphic malignant squamous cells, with individual keratinization and high mitotic index, organized in trabeculae with rare keratin pearl-like formations. The exam allowed the diagnosis of SCC Grade II. Due to the poor prognosis and high cost of treatment, the owner consented to euthanasia and necropsy examination. During necropsy, the vulvar tumor mass was grayish, firm to hard, infiltrative, and had friable areas. Tumor foci suggestive of metastasis were also observed in inguinal, mesenteric, mediastinal and renal lymph nodes, adrenal glands, lung, pericardium, medullary canal, intercostal muscles, right 15th rib, and tissue surrounding the azygos vein. Samples from all organs were collected for anatomopathological examination. Diagnosis of metastatic vulvar SCC was confirmed through histological and IHC studies, which evaluated the expression of cytokeratins (AE1/ AE3), as well as the proliferative activity of neoplastic cells through the PCNA marker. Discussion: The diagnosis of metastatic SCC was obtained through the observed clinical, necroscopic, histological, and IHC characteristics. This neoplasm usually appears in depigmented regions exposed to ultraviolet light, and older animals are more likely to be affected. The mare in the present case had areas of depigmented skin (pinto coat). The animal was kept in a paddock outdoor and exposed to constant solar radiation. Although rare in horses, manifestation of anorexia, progressive weight loss, and frequent colic episodes and recumbency may be closely related to the multiple sites of metastasis in the present case. The main histological findings of the neoplasm were the dense proliferation of malignant squamous cells with individual keratinization, arranged in a trabecular pattern and with rare formations of keratin pearls, in line with previous studies. During IHC evaluation, the neoplastic cells showed expression of cytokeratins (AE1/AE3), as well as high proliferative activity evidenced by the PCNA marker. Given this background, the present report describes the clinical, anatomopathological, and IHC aspects of a case of metastatic SCC with a primary site in the vulva of a mare.

Condição microbiológica após antissepsia da genitália externa em éguas / Microbiological condition after antisepsis of reproductive tract in mares

A endometrite é a principal responsável pela diminuição nas taxas de fertilidade e recuperação embrionária em éguas e em parte, pode ser associada a contaminações por falhas na antissepsia das biotécnicas reprodutivas aplicadas à espécie. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os níveis de contaminação decorrentes de diferentes protocolos de antissepsia da genitália externa de éguas doadoras de embrião. Éguas sadias tiveram a vulva higienizada conforme um dos três grupos experimentais: (G1) sabão de côco; (G2) detergente neutro e (G3) clorexidina degermante 2%. Foi realizada a coleta de material da região da vulva, vestíbulo e útero com auxílio de swab estéril. As amostras foram processadas com objetivo de se determinar os principais microgranismos presentes, além da avaliação de Unidades Formadoras de Colônia (UFC). O G1 mostrou-se mais efetivo quanto à redução nas contagens de UFC em todas amostras. Por outro lado, G2 apresentou eficiência de 62%, sendo o tratamento menos eficiente na redução da contaminação das diferentes regiões avaliadas. A escolha adequada do agente sanitizante utilizado na higienização de períneo previamente a intervenções ginecológicas são de suma importância afim de se evitar contaminações ascendentes que levem a endometrites.(AU)

Endometritis is mainly responsible for the decrease in fertility and embryonic recovery rates in mares and, in part, it can be associated with contaminations due to failures in the antisepsis of reproductive biotechniques applied to the specie. The objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of contamination resulting from different protocols for antisepsis of the external genitalia of embryo donor mares. Healthy mares had their vulva sanitized according to one of the three experimental groups: (G1) coconut soap; (G2) neutral detergent and (G3) 2% chlorhexidine degerming. It was made the collection of material from the vulva, vestibule and uterus region with the aid of a sterile swab. The samples were processed in order to determine the main microorganisms present, in addition to the evaluation of Colony Forming Units (CFU). G1 was more effective in reducing CFU counts in all samples. On the other hand, G2 showed an efficiency of 62%, being the treatment less efficient in reducing contamination in the different regions evaluated. The proper choice of the sanitizing agent used to clean the perineum prior to gynecological interventions is of paramount importance in order to avoid ascending contamination that lead to endometritis.(AU)