Finite element analysis of a new intervertebral disc prosthesis developed for the canine cervical spine / Elementos finitos de uma nova prótese de disco intervertebral desenvolvida para a coluna cervical canina

Cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) is a disease that affects mostly large- and giant-breed dogs. It is characterized by abnormalities of the cervical spine that may cause damage to the spinal cord and nerve roots. Cervical disc arthroplasty has been proposed as a treatment option in veterinary medicine. The current study evaluated the main stresses in a novel canine vertebral disc prosthesis and vertebral bodies using finite element analysis. Two experimental groups were created based on the material used for the prosthesis: stainless steel group (SSG) and titanium alloy group (TAG). Vertebral and prosthetic average equivalents von-Mises stress (VMS) and minimum principal stress (MiPS) were assessed while compressive, tensile, and lateral bending shear loads were applied. The stainless steel group had greater VMS distribution on all the evaluated parameters while the titanium alloy group had greater MiPS. Stresses were more concentrated on the lateral and ventral surfaces of the vertebral bodies than on their endplates. The average prosthetic stresses were more concentrated on the bone/implant contact surface than on the prosthesis/screw interface. Maximum stresses were concentrated in the screws' cranial surface. The novel prosthesis allows even distribution along the vertebral body. Comparing prosthesis materials, titanium alloy was marginally superior regarding average stresses in all directions and should be less likely to suffer subsidence.

Espondilomielopatia cervical (EMC) é uma doença que geralmente afeta cães de raças grandes e gigantes. Ela é caracterizada por anormalidades da coluna cervical que podem causar danos à medula espinhal ou às raízes nervosas. Artroplastia cervical com prótese de disco tem sido proposta como opção de tratamento na medicina veterinária. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os principais estresses em uma nova prótese de disco intervertebral canina e corpos vertebrais por meio da análise de elementos finitos. Foram compostos dois grupos experimentais que representaram o material constituinte da nova prótese: grupos aço inoxidável (SSG) e o liga de titânio (TAG). Tensões equivalente de von-Mises (VMS) e tensão principal mínima (MiPS) média foram avaliadas sob forças de compressão, tração e torção para vértebras e prótese. O grupo SSG teve maior distribuição de VMS para todos parâmetros avaliados, enquanto o grupo TAG teve maior MiPS. Estresses estiveram mais concentrados nas superfícies lateral e ventral dos corpos vertebrais do que nas placas terminais. Os estresses médios da prótese foram mais concentrados na superfície de contato osso/implante do que na interface prótese/parafuso. Estresses máximos foram concentrados na superfície cranial do parafuso. A nova prótese permitiu distribuição uniforme do estresse ao longo do corpo vertebral. Comparando os materiais da prótese, a liga de titânio foi marginalmente superior quanto aos estresses médios em todas as direções, sendo menos provável que sofra afundamento da prótese.

Osteopatia craniomandibular em pastor alemão ­ Relato de caso / Craniomandibular osteopathy in a german shepherd ­ Case report / Osteopatía craneomandibular en un pastor alemán ­ Reporte de caso

A Osteopatia craniomandibular (OCM) é uma doença rara, autolimitante que acomete animais jovens, entre três a oito meses e não tem caráter neoplásico. É caracterizada pela proliferação óssea que atinge os ossos da mandíbula, mas também pode envolver outras estruturas como articulação temporomandibular, ossos do crânio e ossos longos, causando dor e desconforto. Foi atendido um cão, fêmea com quatro meses de idade com algia mandibular antes e após ter sofrido queda de altura. Com os exames foram observadas alterações condizentes com OCM. Diante do caso, foi estabelecido tratamento analgésico e acompanhamento com exames de imagem e exames de sangue. O animal teve boa resposta ao tratamento e não necessitou de outras intervenções.(AU)

Craniomandibular osteopathy (CMO) is a rare, non-neoplastic self-limiting disease, that affects young animals, aged between three to eight months.It is characterized by bone proliferation that reaches the jaw bones, but it can also involve other structures such as temporomandibular joint, skull and long bones, causing pain and discomfort. A four-month-old female dog was treated with mandibular pain before and after having suffered a fall from height. With the exams, alterations consistent with CMO were observed.The treatment was set by usinganalgesicand the follow-up with imaging and blood tests were established. The animal had a good response to the treatment and did not need other interventions.(AU)

La Osteopatía Craneomandibular (OMC) es una enfermedad rara, autolimitada, que afecta a animales jóvenes, con edades comprendidas entre los tres y los ocho meses y no es neoplásica. Se caracteriza por una proliferación ósea que alcanza los huesos de la mandíbula, pero también puede comprometer otras estructuras como la articulación temporomandibular, los huesos del cráneo y los huesos largos, causando dolor y molestias. Una perra de cuatro meses de edad fue atendida por dolor mandibular antes y después de haber sufrido una caída desde una altura. Con los exámenes se observaron alteraciones compatibles con OCM. Ante el caso se instauró tratamiento analgésico y seguimiento con estudios de imagen y hemograma. El animal respondió bien al tratamiento y no necesitó de otras intervenciones.(AU)

Manejo e qualidade ambiental / Management and quality environmental

O cultivo de organismos aquáticos com fins ornamentais no país é considerado hoje uma das atividades mais lucrativas da piscicultura, em plena expansão nas últimas décadas em todo o mundo, em resposta ao aumento da demanda. Esse cultivo geralmente é feito em sistemas semi-intensivos e intensivos e em sistema de produção aberto ou fechado, como o sistema de recirculação (SriUam et al., 2016), por exemplo. O que esses sistemas de produção têm em comum, além da água, é que todos eles vão gerar resíduos. Normalmente esses resíduos são divididos em três tipos: animais cultivados, animais micro, como vermes e parasitas, e a água, o efluente. Qualquer organismo aquático que é cultivado em cativeiro nunca deve ser solto na natureza, mesmo que seja um animal nativo daquela região, salvo algum projeto que tenha como objetivo o repovoamento. Isso porque, ao cultivar algum animal em cativeiro, ele vai ter contato com outros animais, podendo pegar algum parasita do sistema, e, ao ser solto na natureza, pode levar esse parasita consigo. Um outro problema é quando esses animais se proliferam naquele ambiente e prejudicam todo o ecossistema naquela região. Em relação aos animais micro, como exemplo há o verme âncora, Learnea. Ele é um crustáceo parasita que foi trazido ao Brasil, mediante a importação de carpas e kinguios, e hoje é um problema sério no país, causando prejuízo financeiro por prejudicar a carne nos peixes de corte e o aspecto visual de peixes criados para ornamentação.(AU)

Validação do processo de manipulação de fórmulas lácteas com uso de água estéril em uma maternidade do município do Rio de Janeiro, RJ / Validation of the manipulation process of milk formulas using sterile water in a maternity hospital in Rio de Janeiro, RJ

O processo de manipulação no lactário, com posterior armazenamento e transporte, envolve riscos, pois o tempo entre o preparo e o consumo, pode propiciar o crescimento de bactérias patogênicas. O preparo e a manipulação de fórmulas lácteas para neonatos e lactentes deve seguir uma série de precauções para evitar contaminação da fórmula e consequente desfecho negativo. O objetivo deste estudo foi validar o processo de produção de fórmulas lácteas utilizando água estéril, através da análise microbiológica em diferentes momentos do preparo, a fim de garantir uma alimentação segura e de qualidade para os lactentes. A pesquisa foi realizada no lactário de um hospital maternidade por análises microbiológicas de amostras das fórmulas lácteas infantis preparadas com água estéril em diferentes dias, por meio de etapas distintas. Os resultados demonstraram que todas as amostras se encontravam de acordo com os padrões estabelecidos pela legislação brasileira vigente, estando aptas para o consumo humano, comprovando os adequados processos de refrigeração, aquecimento e distribuição. Após a revisão dos Procedimentos Operacionais Padronizados implementou-se um treinamento de educação continuada sobre todas as atividades executadas no lactário, que se estendeu às técnicas de enfermagem, responsáveis pela oferta e monitoramento do tempo de exposição da fórmula em temperatura ambiente, desde o recebimento até a distribuição. É notável a importância do correto processamento e manipulação das fórmulas para prevenir surtos infecciosos e garantir a proteção à saúde infantil, evidenciando que as etapas do processo implementado no presente estudo foram eficazes e podem ser adotadas como rotina diária no lactário.(AU)

The handling process in the dairy, with subsequent storage and transport, involves risks, as the time between preparation and consumption can encourage the growth of pathogenic bacteria. The preparation and handling of infant formulas for neonates and infants must follow a series of precautions to avoid contamination of the formula and consequent negative outcome. The objective of this study was to validate the production process of milk formulas using sterile water, through microbiological analysis at different times of preparation, in order to guarantee safe and quality food for infants. The research was carried out in the lactary of a maternity hospital through microbiological analyzes of samples of infant milk formulas prepared with sterile water on different days, through different steps. The results showed that all samples were in accordance with the standards established by the current Brazilian legislation, being suitable for human consumption, proving the adequate processes of refrigeration, heating and distribution. After reviewing the Standard Operating Procedures, continuing education training was implemented on all activities carried out in the dairy, which was extended to the nursing technicians, responsible for offering and monitoring the exposure time of the formula at room temperature, from receipt to the distribution. The importance of correct processing and manipulation of formulas to prevent infectious outbreaks and ensure the protection of child health is noteworthy, showing that the steps of the process implemented in the present study were effective and can be adopted as a daily routine in the dairy.(AU)

Canine sperm vitrification with nonpermeable cryoprotectants and coconut water extender

This study was aimed to assess the efficiency of coconut water extender with addition of soy lecithin and sucrose as nonpermeable cryoprotectants for canine semen vitrification, using a simple method that yields a high survival rate of spermatozoa for clinical use. Twelve ejaculates from 12 adult normozoospermic dogs were collected separately by digital manipulation and only the second semen fraction was used in this study. After evaluation of volume, concentration, viability, total and progressive motility, velocity parameters and morphology, semen was diluted with a coconut water extender (50% (v/v(volume per volume)) coconut water, 25% (v/v) distilled water and 25% (v/v) 5% anhydrous monosodium citrate solution) with addition of soy lecithin and fructose at 1% and 0.25M sucrose until final concentration of 100x106 spermatozoa/ml. After equilibration at 5ºC for 60 minutes, semen was vitrified by "direct dropping method" into liquid nitrogen in spheres with a volume of 30 µl. After a week of storage the spheres were devitrified as three of them were dropped into 0.5 mL of CaniPlus AI medium (Minitüb, Germany), which was previously warmed in a water bath at 42ºC for 2 minutes and evaluated about the above mentioned parameters. It was found that vitrification resulted in a lower percentage of viable sperms, normal morphology, total and progressive motilities (p0.05) compared to fresh semen samples. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that vitrification with coconut water extender with addition of 1% soy lecithin and 0.25M sucrose as cryoprotectants, has an excellent potential for routine canine sperm cryopreservation.(AU)

Avaliação das condições higiênicas e sanitárias de açougues de um município do Ceará / Assessment of the hygienic- sanitary conditions of butchers in a municipality of Ceará

A manutenção de condições apropriadas de higiene e de conservação é de suma importância na garantia de qualidade e segurança dos produtos cárneos, através do controle no procedimento produtivo, sendo essenciais para a elaboração de produtos seguros. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as condições higiênicosanitárias dos açougues, identificando os pontos críticos de controle de qualidade na distribuição da carne e as possíveis causas da contaminação microbiana no alimento. Tratou-se de um estudo descritivo, com abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa. A coleta dos dados foi realizada em uma cidade no sul do estado do Ceará. Avaliaram-se as condições higiênicosanitárias dos estabelecimentos comerciais de carne bovina registrados e não registrados do município, aplicou-se, um checklist de verificação em boas práticas. Nos estabelecimentos verificouse que 90% dos itens pesquisados apresentaram não conformidade com a lista de Boas Práticas de Manipulação. Segundo classificação proposta pela Agência Nacional da Vigilância Sanitária - ANVISA na Resolução RDC n° 275/02, os açougues avaliados não se enquadram em nenhum dos grupos classificatórios de estabelecimentos. Itens como aberturas com dispositivos que impeçam a entrada de insetos e impurezas apresentaram 95% de não conformidade e área de manipulação adequada e lixeira provida de tampa apresentaram 100% de não conformidade. Conclui-se que há necessidade da implementação de programas de Boas Práticas em serviços de alimentação e, por parte da Vigilância Sanitária do Município, cabe intensificar a fiscalização, especialmente com o objetivo de melhorar a educação sanitária e a conscientização dos proprietários e açougueiros locais.(AU)

The maintenance of appropriate conditions of hygiene and conservation is of utmost importance in guaranteeing the quality and safety of the meat products, through the control in the productive procedure, being essential for the elaboration of safe products. The objective of this work was to evaluate the hygienic-sanitary conditions of the butchers, identifying the critical points of quality control in the meat distribution and the possible causes of the microbial contamination in the food. It was a descriptive study, with a quantitative and qualitative approach. Data collection was performed in a city in the southern state of Ceará. The hygienic-sanitary conditions of registered and unregistered commercial beef establishments of the municipality were evaluated using a checklist available in Administrative Rule 2619/11-SMS. In the establishments it was verified that 90% of the items surveyed presented noncompliance with the list of Good Manipulation Practices. According to classification proposed by ANVISA in Resolution RDC No. 275/02, the evaluated butchers do not fall into any of the classificatory groups of establishments. Items such as openings with devices that prevent the entry of insects and impurities showed 95% non-compliance and adequate handling area and trash bin provided with 100% non-compliance. It is concluded that there is a need for the implementation of Good Practices programs in food services, and the Sanitary Surveillance of the Municipality, it is necessary to intensify the inspection, especially with the objective of improving health education and the awareness of local owners and butchers.(AU)

The interaction between the environment and embryo development in assisted reproduction

It can be assumed that the natural processes of selection and developmental condition in the animal provide the best prerequisites for embryogenesis resulting in pregnancy and subsequent birth of a healthy neonate. In contrast, circumventing the natural selection mechanisms and all developmental conditions in a healthy animal harbors the risk of counteracting, preventing or reducing the formation of embryos or substantially restricting their genesis. Considering these facts, it seems to be obvious that assisted reproductive techniques focusing on early embryonic stages serve an expanded and unselected germ cell pool of oocytes and sperm cells, and include the culture of embryos outside their natural habitat during and after fertilization for manipulation and diagnostic purposes, and for storage. A significant influence on the early embryonic development is seen in the extracorporeal culture of bovine embryos (in vitro) or stress on the animal organism (in vivo). The in vitro production per se and metabolic as well as endocrine changes in the natural environment of embryos represent adequate models and serve for a better understanding. The purpose of this review is to give a brief presentation of recent techniques aimed at focusing more on the complex processes in the Fallopian tube to contrast in vivo and in vitro prerequisites and abnormalities in early embryonic development and serve to identify potential new ways to make the use of ARTs more feasible.(AU)

Surgical correction of metatarsal angular deviation in a Thoroughbred filly using wedge metatarsal ostectomy: a case report / Correção cirúrgica de desvio angular metatársico em uma potra Puro-Sangue utilizando ostectomia em cunha: um relato de caso

This study describes a corrective procedure for a metatarsal angular malformation using wedge ostectomy in a 41-day-old Thoroughbred filly. A 41.6 °angular malformation of the metatarsus was corrected with wedge ostectomy of the left hindlimb in association with a type II external fixator and methyl methacrylate resin. The animal was subjected to the surgical procedure under general anesthesia. The filly was placed in dorsal recumbency with the left hind limb free for manipulation. A bone saw was used for the wedge ostectomy, while the bars for external fixation were placed using a drill. A Kirschner pin and acrylic resin were then applied. Radiographic images obtained immediately after surgery confirmed a total malformation reduction of 32.6 (from 41.6° to 9°). With medication and a Robert Jones bandage, intensive postoperative care was instituted to ensure that the animal adapted properly to the linear external fixator without overloading the pins and connection bars. No postoperative complications were observed. On the day after surgery, the filly was standing and walking with no signs of pain. After 180 days, total osseous calcification was achieved, and the implants were removed during the second surgery. The filly demonstrated adequate locomotion, performed all the movements, and ran without any difficulty in the paddock. The remaining discrete angular deviations were partially corrected using hoof trimming.

O objetivo desse estudo é descrever o procedimento de correção da malformação de desvio angular metatársico, utilizando ostectomia em cunha, em uma potra puro-sangue de 41 dias de idade. Uma malformação metatársica angular de 41.6º foi corrigida com a técnica de ostectomia em cunha, em associação com fixador externo tipo II e resina de metilmetacrilato, no membro pélvico esquerdo. O animal foi submetido à cirurgia sob protocolo de anestesia geral. A potra foi posicionada em decúbito dorsal, com o membro pélvico esquerdo livre para manipulação. Para a realização da ostectomia em cunha, foi utilizada uma serra óssea. Para a instalação das barras do fixador externo, uma furadeira foi utilizada e, para fixá-los, pinos de Kirschner e resina acrílica foram aplicados. Logo após a cirurgia, imagens radiográficas foram obtidas para confirmar a redução total de 32,6º (de 41,6º para 9º) de angulação. Para garantir que o animal se adaptasse ao fixador externo linear e não sobrecarregasse os pinos e barras, foram instituídos cuidados pós-operatórios intensos, com medicações e bandagem de Robert Jones. Não houve complicações no pós-operatório. No dia seguinte à cirurgia, a potra estava em pé, caminhando e sem sinais de dor. Após 180 dias, alcançou total calcificação óssea e os implantes puderam ser removidos em um segundo tempo cirúrgico. A potra demonstrou locomoção adequada, realizando todos os movimentos normais e pôde correr pelo pasto sem dificuldades. Um discreto desvio angular remanescente foi parcialmente corrigido por casqueamento.

Opportunities involving microfluidics and 3D culture systems to the in vitro embryo production

Traditional methods of gamete handling, fertilization, and embryo culture often face limitations in efficiency, consistency, and the ability to closely mimic in vivo conditions. This review explores the opportunities presented by microfluidic and 3D culture systems in overcoming these challenges and enhancing in vitro embryo production. We discuss the basic principles of microfluidics, emphasizing their inherent advantages such as precise control of fluid flow, reduced reagent consumption, and high-throughput capabilities. Furthermore, we delve into microfluidic devices designed for gamete manipulation, in vitro fertilization, and embryo culture, highlighting innovations such as droplet-based microfluidics and on-chip monitoring. Next, we explore the integration of 3D culture systems, including the use of biomimetic scaffolds and organ-on-a-chip platforms, with a particular focus on the oviduct-on-a-chip. Finally, we discuss the potential of these advanced systems to improve embryo production outcomes and advance our understanding of early embryo development. By leveraging the unique capabilities of microfluidics and 3D culture systems, we foresee significant advancements in the efficiency, effectiveness, and clinical success of in vitro embryo production.(AU)

Estratégias farmacológicas para a manipulação do ciclo estral de fêmeas bovinas de raças de corte taurinas / Pharmacological approaches to manipulate bovine estrous cycle in taurine beef breeds

Este texto discute as estratégias farmacológicas para a manipulação do ciclo estral de fêmeas taurinas de corte, com foco na inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF). Os zebuínos, rebanho predominante no Brasil, apresentam características de ciclo estral diferentes das raças taurinas, o que justifica a busca por estratégias hormonais adaptadas para o controle do ciclo estral nas subespécies. O estradiol combinado com a progesterona (P4) e prostaglandina F2 alfa (PGF) é o esquema hormonal mais comumente utilizado para a manipulação do ciclo estral em protocolos de IATF. Porém, o uso de GnRH combinado ou em substituição aos ésteres de estradiol vem sendo considerado. Coletivamente, os dados do nosso grupo reforçam a necessidade de customizar as abordagens para o controle do ciclo estral de acordo com a composição genética das fêmeas bovinas.(AU)

This text discusses pharmacological strategies to manipulate the estrous cycle of taurine and synthetic females, with a focus on timed artificial insemination (TAI). Zebu cattle, the predominant herd in Brazil, have different estrous cycle characteristics than taurine breeds, requiring different synchronization hormonal strategies for each subspecies. Estradiol combined with progesterone (P4) and prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF) is the most used hormonal scheme for estrous cycle manipulation in TAI protocols. But the use of GnRH instead of estradiol esters is being considered. Collectively, our group's data reinforce the need to customize approaches to estrous cycle control according to the genetic composition of bovine females.(AU)

Effects of salinity on pre- and post-fertilization developmental events in the clam Anomalocardia flexuosa (Linnaeus, 1767)

The knowledge about the effect of salinity on the physiological mechanism of bivalve reproduction is fundamental to improve production strategies in hatcheries. The present work evaluated the influence of different salinity concentrations (15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 g⋅L−1) on pre- and post-fertilization development processes in the clam, Anomalocardia flexuosa, oocytes obtained by stripping. Salinity directly interfered with the germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) rate and in the cellular stability of unfertilized oocytes. Salinity concentrations between 30 and 35 g⋅L−1 provided better percentages of stable GVBD within 120 min, and incubation of oocytes in the salinity range of 30-35 g⋅L−1 for a time interval of 80-120 min provided > 80% GVBD. In the post-fertilization analysis, salinity affected the rate of the extrusion of the first and second polar bodies (PB1 and PB2). The release of 50% of the PBs was faster at a salinity of 35 g⋅L−1, with an estimated time of 10 min for PB1 and 30 min for PB2. Thus, chromosome manipulation methodologies aiming triploids should be applied at 35 g⋅L−1 salinity, with application of post-fertilization shock before 10 min for PB1 retention or before 30 min for PB2 retention.(AU)

Aural hematomas in small ruminants - clinical features, surgical treatment and outcome

Background: Aural or auricular hematoma is an important and prevalent surgical condition in small animals practice, and commonly reported in companion pets. The condition is characterized by blood accumulation between the pinnae's dermal surface and the underlying perichondrium. In farm animals, most cases present surgical treatment with drainage of serosanguineous fluid from acute cases with clinical evolution ranging from 1 to 5 days. Therefore, the present work reports the clinical features, surgical treatment and outcome of aural hematomas in 3 small ruminants with a chronic evolution (7 to 20 days), detailing the post-surgical complications, such as wound infection and recurrence, and final cosmetic appearance of the pinnae. Cases: Upon physical examination, all animals were alert and presenting a good body condition score. Clinical alteration was restricted to a bilateral (Case 1) or unilateral (Cases 2 & 3) painless, and fluid-filled swelling, presenting doughy consistency masses within the fluid during pinna manipulation. The fluid-filled swellings were located on the concave (Case 1 - left ear & Case 2) and convex (Case 1 - right ear & Case 3) surface of the pinna. No primary pruritic disorders of the pinna were detected, and a diagnosis of traumatic aural hematoma was proposed. Due to the chronicity of the cases, surgical approach was advisable. The small ruminants underwent general anesthesia, and a linear incision over the skin overlying the hematoma was performed (Cases 1 & 2). After removal of blood and fibrin clots, the cavity was flushed and captonated size 0 nylon mattress sutures were performed on either side of the incision, in order to obliterate the dead space. Due to recurrence after 14 days, Case 2 was submitted to a modified surgical approach using a S-shaped incision combined to multiple drainage holes (MDH) using a disposable 6 mm biopsy punch. The same approach has performed in Case 3. Then, size 0 nylon mattress sutures followed by a tight protective pressure and absorbent bandage combined with an Elizabethan collar was applied. Postoperatively, Case 1 presented surgical site infection and the antibiotic was changed after bacterial culture and antibiogram results. Hospital discharge varied from 14 to 19 days' post-surgery. All animals presented some degree of ear retraction and a linear or S-shaped scar on the affected ear, but final cosmetic appearance was satisfactory to all owners. Discussion: Aural or auricular hematomas are a frequent disorder in dogs and cats clinical practice. In sheep, the few reported cases have been associated with pruritic disorders of the pinna, such as ticks infestation and sarcoptic mange. Whilst in goats, traumatic injuries, such as ear tagging and trauma from others goats, are considered the main cause, especially in breeds with pendulous ear. In our cases with chronic evolution (> 7 days), the most important clinical feature was the presence of doughy consistency masses within the fluid, suggesting matured blood and fibrin clots. A linear incision with captonated size 0 nylon mattress sutures was associated to post-surgical complications, such as wound infection and aural hematoma recurrence. Therefore, a S-shaped incision associated to creation of MDH, in order to achieve better drainage, was the chosen approach in the second surgery (Case 2) and on the subsequent patient (Case 3). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report using the MDH approach in farm animals, that appears to be an effective treatment for chronic aural hematomas in small ruminants.

Minimally invasive laminar lift and posterior cervical laminoplasty via the intermuscular approach: a canine model study

Purpose: This study aimed to develop a minimally invasive surgical procedure for laminar lift and posterior cervical laminoplasty via the intermuscular approach using a canine model. Methods: Six Alaskan dogs were used for developing the surgical approach. The bilateral laminae of C3-7 were cut with an ultrasonic osteotome and fixed with bilateral plates to maintain the lamina lifting and reshape a wider spinal canal. The important structures, such as ligaments, supraspinous ligaments, interspinous ligaments, and ligamentum flavum were preserved. The therapeutic effect was evaluated by preoperative and postoperative imaging results and neck mobility. Results: The surgical procedures were all successfully performed in the 6 animals. All the dogs survived well within 1 year of postoperative follow-up. The postoperative neck mobility was as good as the preoperative one. Computed tomography results showed that the anteroposterior diameter of the spinal canal was successfully enlarged and maintained well. Conclusions: The minimally invasive surgical procedure for laminar lift and posterior cervical laminoplasty via the intermuscular approach was feasible in a canine model, which might be applied in clinical practice.

New species, new records, synonymy, and notes in Eupogonius LeConte (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Desmiphorini)

New records for Eupogonius flavocinctus Bates, 1872, E. boteroi Wappes & Santos-Silva, 2020, E. azteca Martins, Santos-Silva & Galileo, 2015, E. subaeneus Bates, 1872, E. guerrerensis Wappes & Santos-Silva, 2020, and E. arizonensis Knull, 1954 are provided. Eupogonius sonorensis Wappes & Santos-Silva, 2020 is synonymized with E. arizonensis. The synonymy between E. pauper LeConte, 1852 and Eupogonius fraxini Knull, 1918 is commented. Two new species are described: Eupogonius rileyi, from Costa Rica; and E. similis, from Guatemala.(AU)

Redescription of Myotis atacamensis (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) with neotype designation

Myotis atacamensis (Lataste, 1892) was described based on three syntypes from San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. The type series is lost. The original description was based on few external and cranial characters, and the diagnosis became obsolete and useless considering the current diversity of South American Myotis. Based on 12 specimens of M. atacamensis from southern Peru and northern Chile, we provide a morphological comparison with its South American congeners, designate a neotype, and provide a new diagnosis.(AU)

Description of a new species of Eurysthea Thomson (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Cerambycinae)

Eurysthea vandenberghei, new species from Nicaragua is described, and E. vandenberghei Santos-Silva, Heffern & Botero, 2021 is considered a nomen nudum.(AU)

Study of the upper pole after subtotal splenectomy in rats

Purpose: To evaluate macro/microscopic viability of the upper pole (UP) in rats after 80 days of subtotal splenectomy preserving the upper pole (SSPUP). Methods: Twenty-five male Wistar rats were submitted to SSPUP. After 80 days, the rats were euthanized, and the remaining UP was evaluated macroscopically regarding appearance, color, consistency, length, width, thickness, and presence of fibrosis/necrosis; and microscopically regarding presence of red and white pulp, fibrosis/necrosis. Results: Two rats died during surgery and were removed from the statistical analysis. There was statistically significant increase in length and width between the pre and postoperative in the experimental group, with no significant difference in thickness. In the manipulation group, the macroscopic appearance of the spleen was normal in pre and postoperative, with viability preserved. In the experimental group, two UP of the spleen were not found during the second surgery. Macroscopically, it was observed absence of fibrosis and necrosis in all cases. Microscopically, the white and red pulp were intact in both groups. Two spleens of rats in the manipulation group presented areas with fibrosis and necrosis focus, which were not enough to be considered inviable. Conclusions: The UP of the spleen remained viable in 91.3% of the cases.

Molecular investigations of the effect of thermal manipulation during embryogenesis on muscle heat shock protein 70 and thermotolerance in broiler chickens

The objective of this study was to elucidate the optimum protocol timing of thermal manipulation (TM) during embryogenesis, which underline genetic improvement of muscle thermotolerance acquisition. For the present study, 1,440 fertile eggs were divided randomly and equally into control (37.8 °C with 56% relative humidity) and four thermally manipulated groups (TM1, TM2, TM3, and TM4) subjected to 39 °C for 18 h with 65% relative humidity daily during different embryonic periods. Then, at day 35 post-hatch, all groups were subjected to thermal challenge at 43 °C for 6 h to identify the level of thermotolerance acquisition differences between them. Hsp70 mRNA expression was evaluated by using a relative quantitatively RT-qPCR. Single nucleotide polymorphisms sequence of the Hsp70 gene was evaluated by Sanger's sequencing method. Pectoral and thigh muscles samples were subjected to immunohistochemistry to detect Hsp70. Among TM conditions that were investigated, TM1 (39 °C for 18 h during embryonic days (ED) 7­11) induced a significant improvement in thermotolerance parameters (body temperature and T3 levels) during thermal challenge combined with an increase in the levels of Hsp70 mRNA and its protein with a high stability of nucleotide sequences in both pectoral and thigh muscles. The partial DNA sequence of Hsp70 gene in TM1 was reported, and nucleotide sequences were deposited in NCBI GenBank database with the accession numbers (MK852579) and (MK852580). Thigh muscle thermotolerance acquisition was higher than pectoral muscle during thermal challenge at 43 °C for 6 h. Thus, TM during ED7­11 may improve thermotolerance acquisition without adversely affecting performance.(AU)

Different sieving methods for determining the physical characteristics in ground corn

We evaluated various sieving methods to estimate particle size (PS) and geometric standard deviation (GSD) of ground corn. The corn had been previously divided in six fractions and each one ground in a hammermill (1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 5- or 12-mm sieves). The stacked sieving method, with prior drying at 105ºC without agitators was the reference. We evaluated eight sieving methods, distributed in a factorial design (2 x 2 x 2 x 6), consisting of the following treatments: i) with and without agitators (two 25-mm rubber spheres), ii) with and without previous drying, iii) with a nest of test sieves set in a stacked or reverse, and iv) employing six ground corn degrees, totaling 48 treatments (four replicates). There was a linear increase in PS estimation for methods without drying and stacking and quadratic increases for the others. Reverse, drying, and agitator methodologies gave better sieving of corn, and consequently gave the lowest PS and highest GSD. The results were more pronounced for high-intensity grinding (hammermill sieve with small apertures) in which the differences between the reference method with the drying and reverse methods were up to 210 µm. Reverse sieving combined with agitators allowed the greatest passage of corn particles through the test sieves and promoted better characterization of ground corn.(AU)

Avaliação das condições higiênico-sanitárias na comercialização de carne e pescado no mercado municipal da cidade de Pio XII, estado do Maranhão, Brasil / Evaluation of the hygienic-sanitary conditions in the commercialization of meat and fish in the municipal market in the city of Pio XII, state of Maranhão, Brazil

Avaliaram-se as condições higiênico-sanitárias na comercialização de carne e pescado no mercado municipal de Pio XII - MA, através da aplicação de uma lista de verificação adaptada de acordo com a RDC nº 216/2004 da ANVISA (Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária), dotada de um total de 33 itens distribuídos em 8 categorias distintas, em 17 boxes de comercialização, no período de agosto a setembro de 2021. Realizou-se a aplicação de um questionário para verificar o perfil socioeconômico dos vendedores do mercado de Pio XII - MA, com aprovação no Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa (CONEP), da Universidade Estadual do Maranhão - UEMA com o número de CAAE 25016719.8.0000.5554. Foram verificados que 13% dos boxes do mercado estavam em péssimas condições higiênico-sanitárias e o restante foi classificado como ruim (20 a 49%), sendo que o percentual de conformidades de nenhum deles ultrapassou 27,0%, não sendo nenhum estabelecimento classificado como regular (50 a 69%), bom (70 a 90%) ou excelente (91 a 100%). Em relação aos resultados do perfil socioeconômico dos comerciantes, 100% eram do sexo masculino, com 17,6% apresentavam-se na faixa etária de 30 a 39 anos, 41,2% tinham idade de 40-49 anos e 41,2%, com mais de 50 anos. Quanto à escolaridade, predominaram os níveis não alfabetizados e ensino fundamental com percentual de 40,2% para cada um. A renda familiar da maioria (58,8%) se concentrou no intervalo de 1 a 3 salários mínimos. Pode-se concluir que a atividade de comercialização de carne e pescado no Mercado Municipal de Pio XII - MA vem sendo realizada de forma inadequada, e a falta de conhecimento dos comerciantes sobre as Boas Práticas de Fabricação e a realização de treinamento adequado são fatores contribuem de forma significativa para o agravo dessa situação, assim como a origem da carne comercializada, que é de abate clandestino.

The hygienic-sanitary conditions in the marketing of meat and fish in the municipal market of Pio XII - MA were evaluated through the application of a checklist adapted according to the RDC No. 216/2004 of ANVISA (National Health Surveillance Agency), with a total of 33 items distributed into 8 distinct categories, in 17 commercialization boxes, in the period from August to September 2021. A questionnaire was applied to verify the socioeconomic profile of the vendors in the market of Pio XII - MA, with approval in the Research Ethics Committee (CONEP), of the Maranhão State University - UEMA with the number CAAE 25016719.8.0000.5554. It was verified that 13% of the market stalls were in very bad hygienic-sanitary conditions and the rest were classified as bad (20 to 49%), and the percentage of compliance of none of them exceeded 27.0%, with no establishment classified as regular (50 to 69%), good (70 to 90%) or excellent (91 to 100%). Regarding the results of the socioeconomic profile of the merchants, 100% were male, with 17.6% in the 30 to 39 age bracket, 41.2% were 40-49 years old, and 41.2% were over 50 years old. As for education, non-literate and elementary school levels predominated, with a percentage of 40.2% for each. The family income of the majority (58.8%) was concentrated in the range of 1 to 3 minimum wages. It can be concluded that the activity of meat and fish commercialization in the Municipal Market of Pio XII - MA has been performed in an inadequate way, and the lack of knowledge of traders about the Good Manufacturing Practices and the performance of proper training are factors that contribute significantly to the worsening of this situation, as well as the origin of the meat commercialized, which is from clandestine slaughter.