External morphology and biometry of newborn agouti (Dasyprocta prymnolopha, Wagler 1831) / Morfologia externa e biometria de neonates de cutias (Dasyprocta prymnolopha, Wagler 1831)

Morphological features are essential to assess neonates' viability. In order to characterize the morphology and biometry of newborn agouti, 36 animals born at 103 days of gestation under human care in Teresina-PI, Brazil were evaluated. After birth, the newborns were weighed on digital precision scales, measured with a flexible tape measure and their external morphology was assessed. The animals observed had coat color trait of adults, open eyes, hairs in the nasal region and four incisor teeth. The forelimbs had developed four digits and the hind limbs three digits, with white edged claws and a short hairless tail. The following were observed: weight of 144.58 ± 33.39g and lengths: crown-rump 14.73 ± 1.82cm, total 19.88 ± 1.52cm, head to tail 16.95 ± 1.55cm, head 7.33 ± 0.59cm, thoracic girth 11.78 ± 1.36cm, abdominal girth 10.73 ± 1.21cm, tail length 1.18 ± 0.25cm, eye diameter 1.27 ± 0.27cm and ear length 0.21 ± 0.35cm. The agoutis presented morphological maturity at birth with external morphology very similar to that of the adult animals. Most of the births in this species are the double type and newborns that weigh more than 90g have better chances of survival in captivity.

As características morfológicas são essenciais para avaliar a viabilidade dos neonatos. Para caracterizar a morfologia e biometria de cutias recém-nascidas, foram avaliados 36 animais nascidos aos 103 dias de gestação sob cuidados em Teresina-PI, Brasil. Após o nascimento, os recém-nascidos foram pesados em balança digital de precisão, medidos com fita métrica flexível e avaliada sua morfologia externa. Os animais observados apresentavam traço de pelagem de adultos, olhos abertos, pelos na região nasal e quatro dentes incisivos. Os membros anteriores desenvolveram quatro dedos e os membros posteriores três, com garras brancas afiadas e uma cauda curta e sem pêlos. Foram observados: peso de 144,58 ± 33,39g e comprimentos: garupa 14,73 ± 1,82cm, total 19,88 ± 1,52cm, cabeça a cauda 16,95 ± 1,55cm, cabeça 7,33 ± 0,59cm, perímetro torácico 11,78 ± 1,36cm, abdominal perímetro 10,73 ± 1,21 cm, comprimento da cauda 1,18 ± 0,25 cm, diâmetro do olho 1,27 ± 0,27 cm e comprimento da orelha 0,21 ± 0,35 cm. As cutias apresentaram maturidade morfológica ao nascimento com morfologia externa muito semelhante à dos animais adultos. A maioria dos nascimentos nesta espécie são do tipo duplo e recém-nascidos que pesam mais de 90g têm melhores chances de sobrevivência sob cuidados humanos.

Differences in Neuronal Numbers, Morphology, and Developmental Apoptosis in Mice Nigra Provide Experimental Evidence of Ontogenic Origin of Vulnerability to Parkinson's Disease.

Parkinson disease (PD) prevalence varies by ethnicity. In an earlier study, we replicated the reduced vulnerability to PD in an admixed population, using 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-susceptible C57BL/6 J, MPTP-resistant CD-1 and their F1 crossbreds. In the present study, we investigated if the differences have a developmental origin. Substantia nigra was evaluated at postnatal days 2 (P2), P6, P10, P14, P18, and P22. C57BL/6 J mice had smaller nigra and fewer dopaminergic neurons than the CD-1 and crossbreds at P2, which persisted through development. A significant increase in numbers and nigral volume was observed across strains until P14. A drastic decline thereafter was specific to C57BL/6 J. CD-1 and crossbreds retained their numbers from P14 to stabilize with supernumerary neurons at adulthood. The neuronal size increased gradually to attain adult morphology at P10 in the resistant strains, vis-à-vis at P22 in C57BL/6 J. Accordingly, in comparison to C57BL/6 J, the nigra of CD-1 and reciprocal crossbreds possessed cytomorphological features of resilience, since birth. The considerably lesser dopaminergic neuronal loss in the CD-1 and crossbreds was seen at P2 and P14 and thereafter was complemented by attenuated developmental cell death. The differences in programmed cell death were confirmed by reduced TUNEL labelling, AIF, and caspase-3 expression. GDNF expression aligned with the cell death pattern at P2 and P14 in both nigra and striatum. Earlier maturity of nigra and its neurons appears to be better features that reflect as MPTP resistance at adulthood. Thus, variable MPTP vulnerability in mice and also differential susceptibility to PD in humans may arise early during nigral development.

Morphology, Diet, and Reproduction of Coastal Hydrophis Sea Snakes (Elapidae: Hydrophiinae) at Their Northern Distribution Limit.

The Ryukyu Archipelago represents the northern distribution limit for hydrophiine sea snakes, the largest group of marine reptiles. Ryukyuan sea snakes may have developed distinct local adaptations in morphology and ecology, but they have been poorly studied. We examined preserved specimens of 111 Hydrophismelanocephalusand 61 Hydrophis ornatusfrom the Ryukyu Archipelago to obtain data on morphology, diet, and reproduction. Sexual size dimorphism was detected in H. melanocephalus (mean ± standard deviation of adult snout-vent length: SVL, females 1062 ± 141 mm vs. males 959 ± 96 mm) but not in H. ornatus. Female H. melanocephalus had larger head widths and shorter tail lengths relative to SVL compared to males. Relative girth was low in neonates of both species (1.0-1.3), but increased in adults to about 1.7-2.6 in H. melanocephalus and 1.3-1.8 in female H. ornatus. Stomach contents of H. melanocephalus consisted of ophichthid and congrid eels, a sand diver, and gobies, whereas in H. ornatus, gobies and a goat fish were found. Litter size of three reproductive H. melanocephalus ranged from five to seven, and parturition seems to occur from August to October. Litter size of six H. ornatus ranged from two to seven, and was correlated with maternal SVL. Parturition in H. ornatus probably occurs around November. Different selective forces related to locomotion, feeding and predation risk, which influence the pregnant mother and neonates, may have resulted in having few, long but slender offspring that show positive allometric growth in hind-body girth.

Characteristics of pulmonary microvascular structure in postnatal yaks.

Yaks are typical plateau-adapted animals, however the microvascular changes and characteristics in their lungs after birth are still unclear. Pulmonary microvasculature characteristics and changes across age groups were analysed using morphological observation and molecular biology detection in yaks aged 1, 30 and 180 days old in addition to adults. Results: Our experiments demonstrated that yaks have fully developed pulmonary alveolar at birth but that interalveolar thickness increased with age. Immunofluorescence observations showed that microvessel density within the interalveolar septum in the yak gradually increased with age. In addition, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results showed that the blood-air barrier of 1-day old and 30-days old yaks was significantly thicker than that observed at 180-days old and in adults (P < 0.05), which was caused by the thinning of the membrane of alveolar epithelial cells. Furthermore, Vegfa and Epas1 expression levels in 30-day old yaks were the highest in comparison to the other age groups (P < 0.05), whilst levels in adult yaks were the lowest (P < 0.05). The gradual increase in lung microvessel density can effectively satisfy the oxygen requirements of ageing yaks. In addition, these results suggest that the key period of yak lung development is from 30 to 180 days.

Effects of Maternal Fiber Intake on Intestinal Morphology, Bacterial Profile and Proteome of Newborns Using Pig as Model.

Dietary fiber intake during pregnancy may improve offspring intestinal development. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of maternal high fiber intake during late gestation on intestinal morphology, microbiota, and intestinal proteome of newborn piglets. Sixteen sows were randomly allocated into two groups receiving the control diet (CD) and high-fiber diet (HFD) from day 90 of gestation to farrowing. Newborn piglets were selected from each litter, named as CON and Fiber group, respectively. Maternal high fiber intake did not markedly improve the birth weight, but increased the body length, the ileal crypt depth and colonic acetate level. In addition, maternal high fiber intake increased the -diversity indices (Observed species, Simpson, and ACE), and the abundance of Acidobacteria and Bacteroidetes at phylum level, significantly increased the abundance of Bradyrhizobium and Phyllobacterium at genus level in the colon of newborn piglets. Moreover, maternal high fiber intake markedly altered the ileal proteome, increasing the abundances of proteins associated with oxidative status, energy metabolism, and immune and inflammatory responses, and decreasing abundances of proteins related to cellular apoptosis, cell structure, and motility. These findings indicated that maternal high fiber intake could alter intestinal morphology, along with the altered intestinal microbiota composition and proteome of offspring.

Assessing the reproductive biology of the Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus).

The Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus, Squaliformes: Somniosidae) is a long-lived Arctic top predator, which in combination with the high historical and modern fishing pressures, has made it subject to increased scientific focus in recent years. Key aspects of reproduction are not well known as exemplified by sparse and contradictory information e.g. on birth size and number of pups per pregnancy. This study represents the first comprehensive work on Greenland shark reproductive biology based on data from 312 specimens collected over the past 60 years. We provide guidelines quantifying reproductive parameters to assess specific maturation stages, as well as calculate body length-at-maturity (TL50) which was 2.84±0.06 m for males and 4.19±0.04 m for females. From the available information on the ovarian fecundity of Greenland sharks as well as a meta-analysis of Squaliform reproductive parameters, we estimate up to 200-324 pups per pregnancy (depending on maternal size) with a body length-at-birth of 35-45 cm. These estimates remain to be verified by future observations from gravid Greenland sharks.

Morphological study of the rabbit gustatory lingual papillae during postnatal life by light and scanning electron microscopy.

This study aimed to investigate the postnatal morphological features of rabbit's lingual gustatory papillae using histological, histochemical, morphometrical and scanning electron microscopical studies. A total of 48 New Zealand rabbits (1, 7, 15, 23, 30, 60 days postnatal) were used as the material. Tongue consisted of an apex, body and root with three types of gustatory papillae fungiform, vallate and foliate. Rounded to oval fungiform papillae were distributed on lingual apex among filiform papillae. Two foliate papillae on lateroposterior side have parallel folia increased progressively in number (14-20) with age advancement. Two oval vallate papillae on lingual root surrounded by annular grooves. Histologically, the gustatory papillary epithelium was thin at birth then increased in stratification and cornification from third to fourth week. Vallate and foliate grooves were shallow in newborns then grew deeply by desquamation of their lining epithelium which completely opened and connected with lingual excretory ducts at 23 days. Developing serous von Ebner's glands appeared at 23 days and became lobulated form 1-2 months. They gave a negative reaction with Periodic Acid Schiff-Alcian blue stain, while mucous Weber's glands showed Alcian blue positive reaction. Taste buds were firstly seen at 15 days old, increased in number and size and became mature with taste pores from third to fourth week. They distributed dorsally on fungiform and on lateral sides of vallate and foliate. This structural adaptation and maturity of gustatory papillae to meet the functional demands of food ingestion during the transition from suckling to dry matter feeding.

[Ultrasonography in neonatal foals: Depiction and measurement of the kidneys]. / Sonografie beim neugeborenen Fohlen: Darstellung und Vermessung der Nieren.

OBJECTIVE: Aim of the study was to describe the echotexture and dimensions of the kidneys including the renal pelvis in neonatal foals using transabdominal sonography. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In the course of a preliminary examination, sonographic examinations of the kidneys of 10 dead newborn foals were performed in order to determine their localization, measurement parameters, and echotexture. In subsequent necropsies, the kidneys were measured and the obtained values were compared with the sonographic measurements. A high level of agreement between the both measurement values could be demonstrated. In the main examination, 57 1- to 14-day old foals of different breeds were examined. The intercostal spaces and the fossa paralumbalis of both body halves were scanned in longitudinal direction and the topography and echotexture of the kidneys were evaluated using a standardized sonographic examination procedure. The length and width of the organ as well as the extent of the renal pelvis were measured during the same procedure. The obtained measurement values were analyzed comparatively under consideration of different breeds. RESULTS: The renal capsule was identified sonographically by the depiction of a fine hyperechogenic line. The renal cortex itself proved to be echogenic in the ultrasonographic image and the renal medulla hypoechogenic. The renal pelvis exhibited a hyperechogenic sound image. The mean length and width of the left kidney amounted to 7.1 ± 1.4 cm and 4.2 ± 0.7 cm, respectively. The right kidney measured 6.7 ± 1.4 cm and 3.9 ± 0.7 cm in mean length and width. The measurement of the left renal pelvis resulted in mean values of 1.3 ± 0.7 cm in length and 0.7 ± 0.4 cm in in width. Mean length and width of the right renal pelvis amounted to 1.3 ± 0.6 cm and 0.6 ± 0.4 cm, respectively. The renal pelvis displayed an anechogenic lumen on the left and right sides in 24.6 % and 64.3 % of the foals, respectively. The comparison of the measurement values under consideration of different breeds showed that body weight of the equine neonates did not exhibit a correlation with kidney size. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Transabdominal sonography is a reliable diagnostic tool for the evaluation of kidneys in neonatal foals. The description of physiological renal echotexture and dimensions serves to identify pathological conditions.

Influência da adiposidade durante a gestação de éguas da raça Crioula sobre o acúmulo de gordura em seus potros / Influence of adiposity during pregnancy of Crioulo mares on the fat accumulation in their foals

Este trabalho investigou a influência da adiposidade em éguas Crioulas gestantes sobre o peso e o acúmulo de gordura de seus potros do nascimento aos quatro meses de vida. Foram avaliadas 28 éguas Crioulas no terço final de gestação, divididas em dois grupos (normais e obesas) quanto ao peso, à circunferência de pescoço, à altura da crista do pescoço e à gordura subcutânea na base da cauda, bem como quanto à relação dessas medidas com as de seus potros, do parto aos 120 dias de idade. Os filhos de éguas obesas apresentaram maior deposição de gordura na base da cauda, no segundo mês (P<0,05), e na crista do pescoço (P=0,0022), no quarto mês de idade. Houve correlação positiva da altura da crista do pescoço da égua com o peso dos potros ao nascer (P=0,01; r= 0,54) e do peso corporal das éguas com gordura na base da cauda dos potros ao nascimento (P=0,03; r=0,49), além de forte associação entre gordura na base da cauda das éguas obesas com essa medida nos seus potros aos quatro meses (P=0,01; r=0,71). Essa diferença entre os grupos de potros quanto à adiposidade sugere que filhos de éguas obesas são mais propensos a acumular mais gordura já nos primeiros meses de vida.(AU)

This work investigated the influence of adiposity on pregnant Crioulo mares on the weight and fat deposition of their foals from birth to four months of life. Twenty-eight Crioulo mares were evaluated during the final third of gestation, divided into two groups (normal and obese) regarding weight, neck circumference, neck crest height and fat at the tail base, and the relation of these measurements with those of their foals from birth to 120 days old. The obese mares presented higher fat deposition at the tail base in the 2nd month (P< 0.05) and crest of the neck (P= 0.0022) in the 4th month of age. There was positive correlation between height of mare's neck crest and foal weight at birth (P= 0.01, r= 0.54) and body weight of mares between the fat at tail base of foals at birth (P= 0.03, r= 0.49), as well as strong association between fat at the tail base in obese mares with this measurement in their foals at 4 months (P= 0.01, r= 0.71). This difference of adiposity between groups suggests that obese mare's offspring are more likely to accumulate more fat in the first months of life.(AU)

CHTF18 ensures the quantity and quality of the ovarian reserve†.

The number and quality of oocytes, as well as the decline in both of these parameters with age, determines reproductive potential in women. However, the underlying mechanisms of this diminution are incompletely understood. Previously, we identified novel roles for CHTF18 (Chromosome Transmission Fidelity Factor 18), a component of the conserved Replication Factor C-like complex, in male fertility and gametogenesis. Currently, we reveal crucial roles for CHTF18 in female meiosis and oocyte development. Chtf18-/- female mice are subfertile and have fewer offspring beginning at 6 months of age. Consistent with age-dependent subfertility, Chtf18-/- ovaries contain fewer follicles at all stages of folliculogenesis than wild type ovaries, but the decreases are more significant at 3 and 6 months of age. By 6 months of age, both primordial and growing ovarian follicle pools are markedly reduced to near depletion. Chromosomal synapsis in Chtf18-/- oocytes is complete, but meiotic recombination is impaired resulting in persistent DNA double-strand breaks, fewer crossovers, and early homolog disjunction during meiosis I. Consistent with poor oocyte quality, the majority of Chtf18-/- oocytes fail to progress to metaphase II following meiotic resumption and a significant percentage of those that do progress are aneuploid. Collectively, our findings indicate critical functions for CHTF18 in ensuring both the quantity and quality of the mammalian oocyte pool.

Single cell sequencing of radial glia progeny reveals the diversity of newborn neurons in the adult zebrafish brain.

Zebrafish display widespread and pronounced adult neurogenesis, which is fundamental for their regeneration capability after central nervous system injury. However, the cellular identity and the biological properties of adult newborn neurons are elusive for most brain areas. Here, we have used short-term lineage tracing of radial glia progeny to prospectively isolate newborn neurons from the her4.1+ radial glia lineage in the homeostatic adult forebrain. Transcriptome analysis of radial glia, newborn neurons and mature neurons using single cell sequencing identified distinct transcriptional profiles, including novel markers for each population. Specifically, we detected two separate newborn neuron types, which showed diversity of cell fate commitment and location. Further analyses showed that these cell types are homologous to neurogenic cells in the mammalian brain, identified neurogenic commitment in proliferating radial glia and indicated that glutamatergic projection neurons are generated in the adult zebrafish telencephalon. Thus, we prospectively isolated adult newborn neurons from the adult zebrafish forebrain, identified markers for newborn and mature neurons in the adult brain, and revealed intrinsic heterogeneity among adult newborn neurons and their homology with mammalian adult neurogenic cell types.

Digit ratio (2D:4D) and its behavioral correlates in infant rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta).

2D:4D ratios are typically lower in adult human males than females and are linked to numerous sex-differentiated behaviors. 2D:4D ratios are considered an indicator of prenatal androgen exposure; if so, children's 2D:4D ratios would arguably be even better indicators of prenatal androgen exposure since children have experienced fewer postnatal influences than adults. However, sex differences in 2D:4D ratios as well as associations between 2D:4D ratios and sex-typed behaviors in children have been inconsistent. Several studies also report sex differences and behavioral correlates of 2D:4D ratios in adult non-human primates, but little is known about 2D:4D ratios in infant non-human primates. This study examined sex differences in 2D:4D ratios over the first month of life, and associations with behavioral outcomes at 12-24 weeks of age, in N = 304 infant rhesus macaques. An increase in 2D:4D ratios over the first month of life was found, as well as associations with aggression and play behaviors, but no sex differences in 2D:4D ratios were observed. These results highlight the need for future developmental studies of 2D:4D ratios in order to determine not only their stability and predictive value, but also to discern the mechanism connecting prenatal androgen exposure, 2D:4D ratios, and behavioral outcomes.

Sexual Dimorphism in Titi Monkeys' Digit (2D:4D) Ratio is Associated with Maternal Urinary Sex Hormones During Pregnancy.

The second-to-fourth digit (2D:4D) ratio is a sexually-dimorphic biomarker for prenatal sex hormone exposure. We investigated whether titi monkeys (Plecturocebus cupreus) exhibit sexually-dimorphic 2D:4D ratio, and whether variation in 2D:4D ratio correlates with maternal testosterone and estrogen levels during early pregnancy. Subjects were 61 adult titi monkeys (32 males, 29 females). For 26 subjects, maternal urine samples were collected approximately 15-20 weeks before birth and assayed for testosterone and estrone conjugate (E1 C). Titi monkeys exhibited a human-like pattern of sexual dimorphism in right-hand 2D:4D ratio, with females exhibiting higher 2D:4D ratio than males (ß = -0.29, p = 0.023). For left-hand 2D:4D ratio, high levels of maternal E1 C predicted low offspring 2D:4D ratio (ß = -0.48, p = 0.009). For right-hand 2D:4D ratio, high levels of testosterone (ß = -0.53, p = 0.005) and testosterone-to-E1 C ratio (ß = -0.41, p = 0.028) predicted low offspring 2D:4D ratio. For 2D:4D ratio asymmetry (right-hand - left-hand), high levels of testosterone (ß = -0.43, p = 0.03) and testosterone-to-E1 C ratio (ß = -0.53, p = 0.003) predicted low (right-biased) asymmetry. This is the first report of sexually-dimorphic 2D:4D ratio in New World monkeys, and the results support a growing literature suggesting prenatal sex hormones may modulate offspring 2D:4D ratio.

Relationship between placental characteristics and puppies' birth weight in toy and small sized dog breeds.

Puppy neonatal mortality may be related to low birth weight, which has been shown in humans to be linked to placental factors. The relation between the newborn puppy and the placental characteristics has been poorly investigated in dogs. Twenty bitches, 9 toy-sized (i.e. < 5 Kg) and 11 small-sized (i.e. 5 to 10 Kg), were included in this study. During natural delivery or c-section, puppies were identified and their order of birth, sex and weight were recorded. Puppy weights were registered at birth and daily until Day 6. Placentas were weighed after removal of extraplacental adnexa, after which a photo was taken and morphometrically assessed. The Total Placental Area (TPA) and the Transfer Zone Area (TZA) were calculated and their surface expressed in mm2. Immunohistochemistry with monoclonal mouse anti CD31 antibody was used to identify fetal and maternal vessels in the placental labyrinth zone. A vascularization index (VI) was determined for each placenta and the Total Vascular Area (TVA) was estimated. Puppies' birth weight correlated positively with placental weight (P < 0.001, r = 0.689). A positive correlation was found between the puppies' birth weight and TPA (P < 0.001, r = 0.786), TZA (P < 0.001, r = 0.772), and TVA (P < 0.001, r = 0.482). A positive correlation was also found between placental weight and TPA (P < 0.001, r = 0.661), TZA (P < 0.001, r = 0.583), and TVA (P < 0.001, r = 0.333). In the small-sized breeds, the placentas of low-weight puppies were lighter and had a smaller TZA and TVA (P < 0.05). The VI was higher in the placentas of the toy-sized compared to small-sized bitches (P < 0.01). No effect of parity, litter size, or sex of the puppy was observed on birth weight or growth rates on Day 6. The growth pattern of low-weight puppies did not differ from that of the other puppies during the first 6 days of life. As in humans, placental weight, the extension of the transfer zone and placental total vascular area correlates closely with the puppies' birth weight in normal pregnancies. Our data could represent reference values for placental weight, TZA, TVA and VI in toy and small-sized dog breeds.

Does intrauterine crowding affect the force generating capacity and muscle composition of the piglet front limb?

In the pig, intrauterine competition (IUC) greatly affects postnatal traits, such as birth weight, but also locomotor capacities. In a previous study, our group discovered a lower motor performance in piglets with a low birth weight and low vitality (L piglets), compared to piglets with a normal birth weight and normal vitality (N piglets). In order to explain the force deficit causing this reduced motor performance, in a subsequent study, we investigated whether this deficit in L piglets was caused by a lower force generating capacity (FGC) of the extensors of the hind limb and/or a lower number of type II (fast-twitch) fibers in m. vastus lateralis. L piglets had a lower absolute FGC, but surprisingly, a higher relative FGC (to birth weight) in the hind limb, compared to N piglets. In addition, we found no differences in fiber composition of m. vastus lateralis. In the present study, we assessed whether this higher relative FGC is a common feature for front and hind limb locomotor muscles of L piglets. To that end, the physiological cross-sectional area of the main extensor muscles of the front limb was calculated from their volume and fiber length, in order to calculate both the absolute and the relative FGC. By immunohistochemical staining of m. triceps brachii caput longum, the percentage of type II (fast-contracting) fibers could be determined. Similar to the results of the hind limb, we found a smaller absolute FGC, but a larger relative FGC in the front limb of L piglets, compared to N piglets. In addition, m. triceps brachii caput longum did not have a different muscle fiber composition in L and N piglets. As such, we can conclude that IUC affects the locomotor muscles in the front and hind limb in a similar way and that the observed force deficit in L piglets cannot be explained by a different force generating capacity or a lower percentage of type II muscle fibers.

Glucose and insulin curve in pregnant mares and its relationship with clinical and biometric features of newborn foals / Curvas de glicose e insulina em éguas gestantes e sua relação com as características clínicas e biométricas dos neonatos

The aim of the present study was to describe the dynamics of glucose and insulin curves in pregnant mares, and to evaluate the curves according to body condition score, identifying the presence of insulin resistance and correlating these values ​​with the weight, height and clinical changes of the neonates. For this, pregnant mares were evaluated and then grouped according to body condition score during the gestation length until lactation. GrM corresponds to mares with moderate body score (BCS 5-6); GrOv were mares with overweight body score (BCS 7) and GrOb were obese mares (BCS 8-9). A two-step oral sugar test (OST) was used to determine the data. Cortisol analysis was performed with 300-320 days of gestation, at foaling and after parturition. For evaluation of the neonate, a general clinical examination and, weight and height measurements were performed. The results showed hyperglycemia in response to OST with normal insulin values at foaling with a subsequent fall in both values at lactation disregarding group division. Baseline glucose was decreased in GrM compared to GrOv and GrOb with 70-100 days of gestation and with 130-160 days of gestation. With 270-300 days of gestation and post-partum GrOb had increased baseline glucose than GrM. After OST, glucose at foaling day in GrOb presented increased values than GrM. Baseline insulin values did not differ between groups. Post OST insulin levels were higher in GrOb than GrM and GrOv at parturition. No difference in cortisol between moments was identified. GrOb and GrOv maintained increased concentrations after foaling while GrM had a decrease. No correlation was found between maternal glucose and insulin values with foal weight and height, however, a lower ratio between neonatal weight and mare's weight in GrOb and GrOv was identified in relation to the GrM. At foaling, mares presented glucose dysregulation, with obese and overweight mares presenting a greater response to OST.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi descrever a dinâmica das curvas de glicose e insulina em éguas gestantes e avaliar as curvas de acordo com o escore de condição corporal, identificando a presença de resistência insulínica e correlacionando esses valores com o peso, altura e alterações clínicas dos neonatos. Para isso, as éguas prenhes foram avaliadas em conjunto e agrupadas de acordo com o escore de condição corporal durante a gestação até o pós-parto. GrM pertenciam éguas com escore corporal moderado (EC 5-6); GrOv, grupo de éguas com escore corporal acima do peso (EC 7) e GrOb, grupo de éguas obesas (EC 8-9). O teste de glicose oral em duas etapas (OST) foi usado para determinar os dados. A análise do cortisol também foi realizada nos 300-320 dias de gestação, no dia do parto e após o parto. Para avaliação do neonato, foram realizados exame clínico geral e medidas de peso e altura. Os resultados mostraram hiperglicemia em resposta ao OST com valores normais de insulina no momento parto, com uma queda subsequente em ambas as variáveis na lactação, desconsiderando a divisão do grupo. A glicemia basal diminuiu no GrM em comparação com GrOv e GrOb com 70-100 dias de gestação e com 130-160 dias de gestação. Com 270-300 dias de gestação e no pós-parto, o GrOb apresentou aumento na glicemia basal em relação ao GrM. Após OST, a glicose no dia do parto no GrOb apresentou valores aumentados em relação ao GrM. Os valores basais de insulina não diferiram entre os grupos. Após OST níveis de insulina foram maiores no GrOb do que GrM e GrOv no momento do parto. Não houve diferença nos valores de cortisol entre os momentos. O GrOb e GrOv mantiveram cortisol aumentado após o parto enquanto o GrM diminuiu. Não foi encontrada correlação entre os valores de glicemia e insulina materna com o peso e a altura do potro, entretanto, foi identificada uma relação menor entre o peso neonatal e o peso da égua no GrOb e GrOv em relação ao GrM. No parto, as éguas apresentaram desregulação da glicose, sendo que as éguas obesas e com sobrepeso apresentaram uma resposta maior ao OST.(AU)

[Sonographic topography of abdominal organs and structures in equine neonates]. / Sonografische Topografie abdominaler Organe und Strukturen beim equinen Neonaten.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to present a systematic and standardized examination for neonatal foals' abdominal sonography and to describe physiological topographic conditions of some abdominal organs and structures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A standardized sonographic examination of the abdomen was performed in 57 foals in left and right lateral recumbency. Left and right intercostal spaces as well as the ventral abdomen which was divided into 6 segments (left, middle and right cranial, left middle and right caudal abdomen) were examined. The locations, in which the various organs could be found, were described. Furthermore death foals were examined sonographically followed by a necropsy to verify the organs' topography. RESULTS: A standardized systematic examination for abdominal ultrasonography in neonatal foals could be developed and the extension of some abdominal organs could be described. The umbilical vein is localized in the middle cranial segment, the urachus in the middle caudal segment. The umbilical arteries start in the middle caudal segment und spread into the left and right one. The bladder is constantly found in the caudal aspect of the abdomen and extents, depending on its filling, in the middle or in the left and right segments as well. The right kidney is located in the 15th to 17th intercostal space (ICS), the left kidney in the 16th and 17th ICS. The spleen can be visualized in the left 10th to 16th ICS and often in the left cranial abdominal segment. The liver is found in the middle and right cranial segment and the right 16th to 17th ICS and in the left 7th ICS. The stomach is located in the left and middle cranial segment and in the left 9th to 11th ICS, the duodenum constantly in the right 12th ICS. The jejunum can be found in the left caudal and the middle abdominal segments. Caecum is in the right 15th ICS to the fossa paralumbalis and the colon in both right segments and the middle caudal one. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: By examining the neonatal foals' abdomen in a systematic ultrasonographic way the most important abdominal organs can be visualized.

Developmental milestones in neonatal and juvenile C57Bl/6 mouse - Indications for the design of juvenile toxicity studies.

There is a growing demand for wild type mice and mouse models of disease that may be more representative of human conditions but there is little information on neonatal and juvenile mouse anatomy. This project produces sound and comprehensive histology background data on the developing neonatal mouse at different time points from Day 0 until Day 28. The work describes optimal methods for tissue harvesting, fixation and processing from the neonatal and juvenile mice which can be used in routine toxicology studies. A review of the available literature revealed inconsistencies in the developmental milestones reported in the mouse. Although it is true that the sequence of events during the development is virtually the same in mice and rats, important developmental milestones in the mouse often happen earlier than in the rat, and these species should not be used interchangeably.

Maternal high-fat diet exposure during gestation, lactation, or gestation and lactation differentially affects intestinal morphology and proteome of neonatal mice.

Offspring nutrition depends on the mother during gestation and lactation; thus, maternal nutrition and metabolism can affect their development. We hypothesized that maternal exposure to high-fat (HF) diet affects neonate's gastrointestinal tract development. Our objective was to determine the effect of maternal HF diet during gestation and lactation on neonate's duodenum histomorphology and proteome. Female mice were fed either a control (C, 10% kcal fat) or an HF (60% kcal fat) diet for 4 weeks and bred. On postnatal day 2, half the pups were cross-fostered to dams fed on different diet, creating 4 treatments: C-C, C-HF, HF-C, and HF-HF, indicating maternal diet during gestation-lactation, respectively. On postnatal day 12, pups' duodenum was excised and prepared for histology and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis of proteome. Villi were significantly longer in HF-HF pups, and crypt cell proliferation rate was not different among treatments. Between C-C and HF-HF, HF-C, or C-HF, 812, 601, or 894 proteins were differentially expressed (Tukey adjusted P < .05), respectively. Functional analysis clustered proteins upregulated in HF-HF vs C-C in fat digestion and absorption, extracellular matrix, cell adhesion, immune response, oxidation-reduction processes, phagocytosis, and transport categories. Proteins downregulated were classified as RNA splicing, translation, protein folding, endocytosis, and transport. There was evidence for a carryover effect of exposure to HF diet during gestation to the postnatal period. Alterations in proteome relative to HF exposure potentially reflect long-term changes in the functioning of the duodenum.

Differences in third metacarpal trabecular microarchitecture between the parasagittal groove and condyle at birth and in adult racehorses.

BACKGROUND: The aetiology of equine metacarpal condylar fractures is not completely understood and a developmental cause has been postulated. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the subchondral bone trabecular microarchitecture of the lateral parasagittal groove and condyle in equine neonates and its adaptation with maturation and athletic activity. STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo observational study. METHODS: Distal metacarpi of neonates, yearlings and adult racehorses (n = 24) were harvested. Dorsal and palmar frontal histological sections, containing the lateral parasagittal groove and condyle, were studied. The sections were digitalised and subchondral trabecular bone quantity and quality parameters and trabecular orientation in the frontal plane were measured. RESULTS: Trabecular spacing and length were greater (P = 0.004 and P = 0.0005 respectively) whereas bone fraction, trabecular number and connectivity were all lower (P = 0.0004, P = 0.0001 and P = 0.001 respectively) in the lateral parasagittal groove compared with the condyle in neonatal foals. Trabecular thickness and bone fraction increased with age in racehorses and trabecular spacing decreased. The predominant trabecular orientation had a consistent pattern in neonates and it changed with maturity and the cumulative effect of racing at all the ROIs except for the palmar lateral parasagittal groove that retained a more 'immature' pattern. MAIN LIMITATIONS: Samples were investigated in 2D. 3D processing could have provided more information. CONCLUSIONS: Already at birth there are striking differences in the subchondral bone trabecular microarchitecture between the lateral parasagittal groove and condyle in foals. Adaptation of trabeculae is confirmed with maturity in racehorses, with the greatest adaptation measured in bone quantity parameters. The trabecular orientation had a unique and more immature orientation pattern in the lateral palmar parasagittal grooves in adult racehorses and may reflect a weaker structure at this site.