Abdominal TRPV1 channel desensitization enhances stress-induced hyperthermia during social stress in rats.

AIMS: In rats, stress-induced hyperthermia caused by social interaction depends on brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis and peripheral vasoconstriction. However, the peripheral mechanisms responsible for regulating the level of hyperthermia during social stress are still unknown. The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) subfamily, expressed in sensory and visceral neurons, can serve as a thermoreceptor. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the abdominal TRPV1 is essential in regulating stress-induced hyperthermia during social stress. MAIN METHODS: Male Wistar rats received an intraperitoneal injection of Resiniferatoxin (RTX) - an ultra-potent capsaicin analog, (i.e., to desensitize the TRPV1 channels) or vehicle. Seven days later, we evaluated the effects of abdominal TRPV1 channels desensitization on core body temperature (CBT), brown adipose tissue (BAT) temperature, tail skin temperature, and heart rate (HR) of rats subjected to a social stress protocol. KEY FINDINGS: We found abdominal TRPV1 desensitization increased CBT and BAT temperature but did not change tail skin temperature and HR during rest. However, under social stress, we found that abdominal TRPV1 desensitization heightened the increase in CBT and BAT caused by stress. Also, it abolished the increase in tail skin temperature that occurs during and after social stress. TRPV1 desensitization also delayed the HR recovery after the exposure to the social stress. SIGNIFICANCE: These results show that abdominal TRPV1 channels desensitization heightens stress-induced hyperthermia, causing heat dissipation during and after social stress, enabling optimal thermal control during social encounters.

Psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) for dogs with clinical signs of osteoarthritis and preliminary evidence of its clinical utility / Propriedades psicométricas da versão brasileira do Breve Inventário de Dor Canina (BIDC) em cães com sinais clínicos de osteoartrite e evidências preliminares da sua utilização clínica

This study aimed to determine the psychometric properties and clinical use of the Brazilian version of the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) in dogs with hip dysplasia (HD). Forty-three dogs with HD and 16 clinically normal dogs were enrolled. The HD dogs were treated daily with 4.4mg/kg carprofen (GT = 21) or placebo (GP = 19), for four weeks. Owners completed the CBPI at two weeks (W-2) and immediately before the start of the treatment (W0), two (W2) and four (W4) weeks during treatment, and two weeks (W6) after the end of treatment. The internal structure was accessed, and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.97, indicating the high internal consistency of the instrument. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) suggested the retention of one component, which accounted for 78% of the variability. The ROC curve analysis concluded that the score 3 has an excellent performance to discriminate between normal and possible HD dogs (AUC of 0.973). There was no difference between dogs treated with carprofen versus placebo. The instrument in Portuguese showed construct and criterion validity and reliability to be used in dogs with HD.

Objetivou-se determinar as propriedades psicométricas e a utilidade clínica do Breve Inventário de Dor Canina na língua portuguesa, em cães com displasia coxofemoral (DCF). O inventário foi preenchido por tutores de 43 animais com DCF e por 16 tutores de cães saudáveis. Os animais com DCF foram tratados com carprofeno 4,4mg/kg (GT = 21) ou placebo (GP =19), administrados uma vez ao dia durante quatro semanas. As avaliações foram realizadas duas semanas e imediatamente antes do tratamento, duas e quatro semanas durante o tratamento e após duas semanas do término do tratamento. A estrutura interna calculada pelo alfa de Cronbach = 0,97 indicou alta consistência dos dados. A análise dos componentes principais identificou a retenção de apenas um componente responsável por 78% da variabilidade dos dados. A análise da curva ROC indicou que o escore 3 discrimina cães saudáveis de cães com possível DCF (ASC de 0,973). Não houve diferença entre os cães tratados com carprofeno daqueles que receberam placebo. O questionário apresentou validade de constructo e critério e confiabilidade e pode-se empregá-lo para avaliar a dor crônica em cães com osteoartrite em países de língua portuguesa.

Intestinal morphometry and performance of broiler chickens subjected to diets with buriti oil / [Morfometria intestinal e desempenho de frangos de corte submetidos a dietas com óleo de buriti]

This study aimed to evaluate the productive performance, carcass yield, and intestinal morphometry of broiler chickens subjected to diets with the inclusion of buriti oil. Buriti oil is an energy food that can be used in chicken feed to replace soybean oil, which has a high cost in production, also has its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, which can provide benefits in chicken feed. 180 male broilers of the Ross lineage were used, distributed in a completely randomized design with 3 treatments and 6 replicates of 10 birds per experimental unit. The experimental phase took place from 14 to 28 days and levels 0; 0.75 and 1.50% of buriti oil were added to the corn and soybean-based feed. It can be inferred that the buriti oil-based diets in the diet with insertion of levels of 0%, 0.75% and 1.50% did not differ significantly for the productive performance variables, but in relation to the productive yield there was a significant difference for carcass yield accompanied by greater disposition of abdominal fat, thigh and heart fat, a common effect in the use of oils. Although no statistical differences were observed for most of the variables in the assessment of intestinal morphometry, there was an increase in the crypt depth of the duodenum and ileum and an increase in the muscle layer of the duodenum and jejunum, which may have been caused by some injury to the intestine and not by direct effect of buriti oil. In the other variables there was no difference between treatments and it is concluded that buriti oil did not harm the performance, yield and intestinal morphometry of broiler chickens from 14 to 28 days of age.

Objetivou-se, com essa pesquisa, avaliar o desempenho produtivo, o rendimento de carcaça e a morfometria intestinal de frangos de corte com dietas submetidas à inclusão do óleo de buriti. Trata-se de um alimento energético que pode ser utilizado na alimentação de frangos visando substituir o óleo de soja, o qual apresenta alto custo na produção. O óleo de buriti ainda possui suas propriedades anti-inflamatórias, antioxidantes, antimicrobianas, podendo conferir benefícios na alimentação de frangos. Foram utilizados 180 frangos de corte machos, da linhagem Ross, distribuídos em um delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, com três tratamentos e seis repetições de 10 aves por unidade experimental. A fase experimental ocorreu de 14 a 28 dias, e os níveis 0%, 0,75% e 1,50% de óleo de buriti foram inseridos na ração à base de milho e soja. Pode-se inferir que as dietas à base de óleo de buriti na dieta com inserção dos níveis de 0%, 0,75% e 1,50% não diferiram significativamente para as variáveis de desempenho produtivo, mas, em relação ao rendimento produtivo, houve uma diferença significativa para o rendimento de carcaça, acompanhado de maior disposição de gordura abdominal, gordura de sobrecoxa e coração, efeito comum na utilização de óleos. Apesar de não serem observadas diferenças estatísticas para a maioria das variáveis na avaliação da morfometria intestinal, houve aumento na profundidade de cripta do duodeno e do íleo, bem como aumento da camada muscular do duodeno e do jejuno, que podem ter sido provocados por alguma injúria no intestino e não por efeito direto do óleo de buriti. Nas demais variáveis, não houve diferença entre os tratamentos, e conclui-se que o óleo de buriti não causou prejuízo ao desempenho, ao rendimento e à morfometria intestinal de frangos de corte no período de 14 a 28 dias de idade.

Allogenic platelet-rich plasma in induced ulcers in rat's cornea / [Plasma rico em plaquetas alogênico em úlceras de córnea induzidas em ratos]

The objective in this study was to evaluate the clinic effect of applying allogenic platelet-rich plasma (PRP) heated or not, for treating cornea ulcers, including the dosage of PDGF-BB in the cornea. The ulcers were induced, standardizing the left eye from 81 rats (Ratus norvegicus, albinus variety), assigned randomly into three groups (N=27): control group (CG) which did not receive any topic treatment; heated PRP group (GA) and PRP group (GP), which received topical treatment every eight hours for five days. Each group underwent evaluation at 24 hours (M1), three days (M3) and five days (M5). The clinical exam evaluated the opacity, vascularization and corneal repair. The corneal PDGF-BB was dosed through the ELISA method. The corneal opacity was decreased in PRP-treated animals (GA and GP) and corneal repair time reduced when compared to CG at M1 and M5. Furthermore, GP showed greater vascularization at M3 compared to M1. Applied allogenic PRP eye drops, heated or not, speed up corneal healing, and reduce corneal repair time. However, the corneal PDGF concentration was not altered in any of the treatments.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito clínico da aplicação de plasma rico em plaquetas alogênico (PRP) aquecido ou não, no tratamento de úlceras de córnea, como a dosagem de PDGF-BB na córnea. As úlceras foram induzidas, padronizando-se o olho esquerdo de 81 ratos (Rattus norvegicus, variedade albinus), aleatoriamente, nos três grupos (N = 27): grupo controle (CG), que não recebeu nenhum tratamento tópico; grupo PRP aquecido (GA) e grupo PRP (GP), que receberam tratamento tópico a cada oito horas, durante cinco dias. Cada grupo foi subdividido em 24 horas (M1), três dias (M3) e cinco dias (M5). O exame clínico avaliou a opacidade, a vascularização e o reparo corneano. O PDGF-BB corneano foi dosado pelo método Elisa. Houve diminuição da opacidade da córnea nos animais tratados com PRP (GA e GP) e diminuição do tempo de reparo da córnea em comparação com CG, M1 e M5. Além disso, foi observada maior vascularização no GP no momento M3 em relação ao M1. A aplicação de colírios de PRP alogênico, aquecidos ou não, acelera a cicatrização da córnea, além de reduzir o tempo de reparo da córnea. No entanto, a concentração de PDGF na córnea não se alterou em nenhum dos tratamentos.(AU)

Comparison of five different laboratory techniques for the rabies diagnosis in clinically suspected cattle in Brazil.

The direct-fluorescent antibody test (dFAT) is considered the "gold standard" assay to diagnose rabies. However, it is crucial to develop molecular techniques, such as RT-PCR and RT-qPCR, since many laboratories lack the needed supplies for performing complementary methods (viral isolation, for example). For this purpose, diagnostic techniques must be specific and sensitive to guarantee accuracy. This present investigation aimed to detect rabies virus (RABV) in 126 clinically suspected cattle in Brazil using different diagnostic tests [dFAT, mouse inoculation test (MIT), immunohistochemistry (IHC), RT-PCR and RT-qPCR] and to compare those results obtained under routine laboratory conditions. The results of the present investigation demonstrate that the molecular techniques are more sensitive and may detect low viral load, even though the non-homogeneous viral distribution caused a false-negative result in dFAT. We also observed a usual alteration in antigens distribution among regions of the central nervous system (CNS). By both dFAT and IHC assays, the most reliable CNS structures were thalamus and midbrain. Although this investigation demonstrated diagnostic sensitivity and specificity close to 100 % in all laboratory techniques employed, a dFAT auxiliary test is required for bovine specimens, such as molecular techniques, when there are poor sampling conditions (low viral load combined with unavailability of brainstem structures).

Evaluation of parameters obtained from two systems of gait analysis.

BACKGROUND: The technical difficulties in utilising the force platform have stimulated the use and development of other gait systems. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the values of gait parameters obtained from a pressure-sensitive walkway and from a treadmill in healthy dogs during walking. METHODS: Twelve healthy, privately owned, Labrador retriever dogs were used. During each trial, each dog was led across the pressure-sensitive walkway utilising a loose leash to the right of the handler. The velocity was restricted to the range of 0.9 to 1.1 m/s and the acceleration between -0.15 and 0.15 m/s2 . For the treadmill, each dog also walked with leash loose on the treadmill. The treadmill speed was maintained at 0.9m/s. The temporospatial variables, and percentage of body weight distribution/percentage of pressure were evaluated between the two gait systems. RESULTS: For both forelimbs and hind limbs, significant differences were found between stance percentage, which was higher on treadmill, and swing percentage and stride length/stance distance, which were higher on the pressure-sensitive walkway. The duty factor value was 0.57 for the pressure-sensitive walkway and 0.60 for treadmill. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Each gait system has limitations, but also advantages that must be considered depending upon the variable and animal to be evaluated. The gait parameters obtained from the Tekscan pressure-sensitive walkway and Gait4Dog treadmill revealed differences in the temporospatial parameters between systems, but similarity in body-weight distribution/pressure percentage.

Effects of chitosan and whole raw soybeans on ruminal fermentation and bacterial populations, and milk fatty acid profile in dairy cows.

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether providing chitosan (CHI) to cows fed diets supplemented with whole raw soybeans (WRS) would affect the nutrient intake and digestibility, ruminal fermentation and bacterial populations, microbial protein synthesis, N utilization, blood metabolites, and milk yield and composition of dairy cows. Twenty-four multiparous Holstein cows (141 ± 37.1 d in milk, 38.8 ± 6.42 kg/d of milk yield; mean ± SD) were enrolled to a 4 × 4 Latin square design experiment with 23-d periods. Cows were blocked within Latin squares according to milk yield, days in milk, body weight, and rumen cannula (n = 8). A 2 × 2 factorial treatment arrangement was randomly assigned to cows within blocks. Treatments were composed of diets with 2 inclusion rates of WRS (0 or 14% diet dry matter) and 2 doses of CHI (0 or 4 g/kg of dry matter, Polymar Ciência e Nutrição, Fortaleza, Brazil). In general, CHI+WRS negatively affected nutrient intake and digestibility of cows, decreasing milk yield and solids production. The CHI increased ruminal pH and decreased acetate to propionate ratio, and WRS reduced NH3-N concentration and acetate to propionate in the rumen. The CHI reduced the relative bacterial population of Butyrivibrio group, whereas WRS decreased the relative bacterial population of Butyrivibrio group, and Fibrobacter succinogenes, and increased the relative bacterial population of Streptococcus bovis. No interaction effects between CHI and WRS were observed on ruminal fermentation and bacterial populations. The CHI+WRS decreased N intake, microbial N synthesis, and N secreted in milk of cows. The WRS increased N excreted in feces and consequently decreased the N excreted in urine. The CHI had no effects on blood metabolites, but WRS decreased blood concentrations of glucose and increased blood cholesterol concentration. The CHI and WRS improved efficiency of milk yield of cows in terms of fat-corrected milk, energy-corrected milk, and net energy of lactation. The CHI increased milk concentration [g/100 g of fatty acids (FA)] of 18:1 trans-11, 18:2 cis-9,cis-12, 18:3 cis-9,cis-12,cis-15, 18:1 cis-9,trans-11, total monounsaturated FA, and total polyunsaturated FA. The WRS increased total monounsaturated FA, polyunsaturated FA, and 18:0 to unsaturated FA ratio in milk of cows. Evidence indicates that supplementing diets with unsaturated fat sources along with CHI negatively affects nutrient intake and digestibility of cows, resulting in less milk production. Diet supplementation with CHI or WRS can improve feed efficiency and increases unsaturated FA concentration in milk of dairy cows.

Radiographic measurements of the hindlimbs in crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous, Linnaeus, 1766).

Life expectancy of crab-eating foxes in captivity is approximately 11 years, which favours the development of diseases including orthopaedic disorders. However, to understand disorders that may affect these animals, it is worth determining a normal range of measurements. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate radiographic measurements of joint angles of the hindlimbs and the ratio of patellar ligament length to patellar length in healthy crab-eating foxes. Fifteen captive crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous), eight males and seven females, aged more than 1 year old, weighing 5.5-7.9 kg were used. Anatomic and mechanical femoral joint angles were assessed in ventrodorsal radiographic views, and mediolateral views were taken to measure patellar ligament length and patellar length, and the tibial plateau angle. The right and left hindlimbs were evaluated. All measurements were conducted in triplicate by the same investigator. No statistically significant differences were observed between sides in the radiographic measurements. The anatomic lateral proximal femoral angle and the anatomic lateral distal femoral angle recorded mean values of 95.43° and 92.75°, respectively. The mechanical lateral proximal femoral angle and the mechanical lateral distal femoral angle recorded mean values of 93.39° and 96.75°, respectively. Inclination angles measured according to the Tomlinson, Hauptman A and Hauptman B methods were 133.80°, 147.32° and 128.63°, respectively. The tibial plateau recorded 18.77°, and the ratio of the patellar ligament length to the patellar length was 1.99. In conclusion, the collected data are important to characterize the normal values of crab-eating fox limbs.

Magnetic resonance imaging and pathological features of a mixed glioma in a dog: case report / Aspectos patológicos e das imagens de ressonância magnética de um glioma misto em um cão: relato de caso

The aim of this report was to describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and pathological features of a canine mixed glioma. A 12-year-old boxer male dog was presented for necropsy along with data from an MRI evaluation conducted ante-mortem. The images were examined and showed a poorly demarcated prosencephalic lesion, hyperintense on T2W images, hypointense on T1W images and heterogeneously hyperintense on T2W FLAIR images. There was mild nonuniform contrast enhancement, apparent midline shift, moderate perilesional edema and marked distortion of the adjacent lateral ventricle. The brain was evaluated macroscopically, microscopically and immunohistochemically. Grossly, there was a poorly demarcated soft mass, with areas of hemorrhage, within the left parietal and temporal lobes. Histologically, there was a densely cellular mass composed of two geographically distinct populations of neoplastic cells. The first population was composed of small and round cells organized in a honeycomb pattern. The second population constituted of intermingled streams and bundles of neoplastic cells that were strongly immunolabeled for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). The diagnosis of a mixed glioma was based on MRI findings, and mainly on histological and immunohistochemical findings.(AU)

O objetivo deste relato foi descrever as características patológicas e das imagens de ressonância magnética de um glioma misto canino. Um cão de 12 anos de idade da raça Boxer foi submetido à necropsia. As imagens obtidas ante mortem por ressonância magnética foram analisadas, e nelas se observou uma lesão prosencefálica com contornos pouco definidos, sinal hiperintenso nas imagens ponderadas em T2, hipointenso nas imagens ponderadas em T1, e heterogeneamente hiperintenso em T2-FLAIR. Havia discreto realce desuniforme ao contraste, evidente desvio da linha média, edema perilesional moderado e marcada distorção do ventrículo lateral adjacente. O encéfalo foi avaliado macroscopicamente, microscopicamente e imuno-histoquimicamente. Macroscopicamente, havia uma massa pobremente demarcada, com áreas de hemorragia, nos lobos parietal e temporal esquerdos. Histologicamente, havia uma massa densamente celular, composta por duas populações de células neoplásicas distintas separadas geograficamente. A primeira população era composta por células pequenas e redondas, organizadas com aspecto de favo de mel. A segunda população era constituída por feixes entrelaçados de células neoplásicas fortemente imunomarcadas para a proteína fibrilar ácida glial (GFAP). O diagnóstico de glioma misto foi obtido com base nos achados imaginológicos e, principalmente, em suas características histológicas e imuno-histoquímicas.(AU)

Magnetic resonance imaging and pathological features of a mixed glioma in a dog: case report / Aspectos patológicos e das imagens de ressonância magnética de um glioma misto em um cão: relato de caso

The aim of this report was to describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and pathological features of a canine mixed glioma. A 12-year-old boxer male dog was presented for necropsy along with data from an MRI evaluation conducted ante-mortem. The images were examined and showed a poorly demarcated prosencephalic lesion, hyperintense on T2W images, hypointense on T1W images and heterogeneously hyperintense on T2W FLAIR images. There was mild nonuniform contrast enhancement, apparent midline shift, moderate perilesional edema and marked distortion of the adjacent lateral ventricle. The brain was evaluated macroscopically, microscopically and immunohistochemically. Grossly, there was a poorly demarcated soft mass, with areas of hemorrhage, within the left parietal and temporal lobes. Histologically, there was a densely cellular mass composed of two geographically distinct populations of neoplastic cells. The first population was composed of small and round cells organized in a honeycomb pattern. The second population constituted of intermingled streams and bundles of neoplastic cells that were strongly immunolabeled for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). The diagnosis of a mixed glioma was based on MRI findings, and mainly on histological and immunohistochemical findings.(AU)

O objetivo deste relato foi descrever as características patológicas e das imagens de ressonância magnética de um glioma misto canino. Um cão de 12 anos de idade da raça Boxer foi submetido à necropsia. As imagens obtidas ante mortem por ressonância magnética foram analisadas, e nelas se observou uma lesão prosencefálica com contornos pouco definidos, sinal hiperintenso nas imagens ponderadas em T2, hipointenso nas imagens ponderadas em T1, e heterogeneamente hiperintenso em T2-FLAIR. Havia discreto realce desuniforme ao contraste, evidente desvio da linha média, edema perilesional moderado e marcada distorção do ventrículo lateral adjacente. O encéfalo foi avaliado macroscopicamente, microscopicamente e imuno-histoquimicamente. Macroscopicamente, havia uma massa pobremente demarcada, com áreas de hemorragia, nos lobos parietal e temporal esquerdos. Histologicamente, havia uma massa densamente celular, composta por duas populações de células neoplásicas distintas separadas geograficamente. A primeira população era composta por células pequenas e redondas, organizadas com aspecto de favo de mel. A segunda população era constituída por feixes entrelaçados de células neoplásicas fortemente imunomarcadas para a proteína fibrilar ácida glial (GFAP). O diagnóstico de glioma misto foi obtido com base nos achados imaginológicos e, principalmente, em suas características histológicas e imuno-histoquímicas.(AU)

Susceptibility of mice to bovine herpesvirus type 5 infection in the central nervous system

Bovine herpesvirus type 5 (BoHV-5) is an important pathogen that causes meningoencephalitis in cattle. Few studies have used the mouse as a model for BoHV-5 infection. Despite the fact that BoHV-5 can infect mice with immune deficiencies, little is known about viral replication, immune response, and the course of infection in the central nervous system (CNS) of wild-type mice. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the response in the CNS of BALB/c mice acutely infected with BoHV-5 at different days post-inoculation (dpi). BoHV-5, when inoculated intracranially, was able to infect and replicate within the CNS of BALB/c mice. Until 15 dpi, the mice were able to survive without showing prominent neurological signs. The infection was accompanied by a Th1 immune response, with a significant expression of the cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α and chemokine CCL-2. The expression of these cytokines and chemokines was most significant in the early course of infection (3 and 4 dpi), and it was followed by meningoencephalitis with perivascular cuffing and periventriculitis, composed mainly of macrophages and lymphocytes. After the expression of cytokines and chemokine, the mice were able to curb BoHV-5 acute infection in the brain, since there was a decrease in the number of BoHV-5 DNA copies after 3 dpi and viable viral particles were not detected after 6 dpi. Importantly, BoHV-5 was able to infect the trigeminal ganglia during acute infection, since a large number of BoHV-5 DNA copies were detected on 1 and 2 dpi.(AU) i

Susceptibility of mice to bovine herpesvirus type 5 infection in the central nervous system.

Bovine herpesvirus type 5 (BoHV-5) is an important pathogen that causes meningoencephalitis in cattle. Few studies have used the mouse as a model for BoHV-5 infection. Despite the fact that BoHV-5 can infect mice with immune deficiencies, little is known about viral replication, immune response, and the course of infection in the central nervous system (CNS) of wild-type mice. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the response in the CNS of BALB/c mice acutely infected with BoHV-5 at different days post-inoculation (dpi). BoHV-5, when inoculated intracranially, was able to infect and replicate within the CNS of BALB/c mice. Until 15 dpi, the mice were able to survive without showing prominent neurological signs. The infection was accompanied by a Th1 immune response, with a significant expression of the cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α and chemokine CCL-2. The expression of these cytokines and chemokines was most significant in the early course of infection (3 and 4 dpi), and it was followed by meningoencephalitis with perivascular cuffing and periventriculitis, composed mainly of macrophages and lymphocytes. After the expression of cytokines and chemokine, the mice were able to curb BoHV-5 acute infection in the brain, since there was a decrease in the number of BoHV-5 DNA copies after 3 dpi and viable viral particles were not detected after 6 dpi. Importantly, BoHV-5 was able to infect the trigeminal ganglia during acute infection, since a large number of BoHV-5 DNA copies were detected on 1 and 2 dpi.

Osteology and radiology of the Maned Wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) pelvic limb.

This study describes the osteology and radiology of the pelvic limb in maned wolves. Ten (five live and five dead) maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus), five males and five females, aged from 2 to 7 years old were used. Digital radiographs were taken and recorded for both pelvic limbs in all animals. Osteology was correlated with the radiographic images. The pelvis had a rectangular shape, and the obturator foramen (foramen obturatum) was oval. The femoral neck (collum femoris) was short and thick. The greater trochanter (trochanter major) extended proximally to near the dorsum of the femoral head (caput ossis femoris). The lateral femoral condyle (condylus lateralis) was larger than the medial condyle (condylus medialis), and the intercondylar fossa (fossa intercondylaris) had a slightly oblique orientation. The proximal tibia displayed medial and lateral condyles with the medial larger. The femur was slightly shorter than the tibia. Seven tarsal bones (ossa tarsi) were present, four long metatarsal bones (ossa metatarsalia II - V) and a short first metatarsal bone (os metatarsal I).

Effect of fiber digestibility and conservation method on feed intake and the ruminal ecosystem of growing steers.

Fiber digestibility is an important factor regulating DMI in ruminants. Additionally, the ensiling process can also affect digestibility and chemical composition of the forage. The objective of this study was to investigate effects of sugarcane NDF digestibility (NDFD) and conservation method on intake, rumen kinetics, and the ruminal ecosystem of steers. Eight ruminally cannulated Nellore steers (275±22 kg BW) were used in a replicated 4×4 Latin square design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Two sugarcane genotypes divergent for stalk NDFD were used: IAC86-2480 with high NDFD and SP91-1049 with low NDFD. Experimental diets were formulated with 40% sugarcane, either freshly cut or as silage, and 60% concentrate on a DM basis. Each experimental period lasted for 14 d, with the last 4 d used for determination of intake, ruminal evacuation, and ruminal fluid collection. The effect of fiber digestibility on DM and NDF intake was dependent on the forage conservation method (P=0.01). High NDFD increased (P<0.01) DMI only when sugarcane was offered as silage, having no effect (P=0.41) on DMI when offered as freshly cut. Conservation method had no effect on total ruminal mass, with only a tendency (P<0.10) for greater NDF and indigestible NDF ruminal mass in steers fed the low-NDFD genotype. The NDF turnover and passage rates were greater (P<0.05) for the genotype with high NDFD but only when offered as silage. Liquid turnover rate in the rumen was greater (P=0.02) for diets containing silage, with no effect of genotype (P=0.87). There was no effect of NDFD genotype on ruminal pH (P=0.77); however, diets containing sugarcane as silage increased (P<0.01) ruminal pH. Total concentration of short chain fatty acids (P=0.05) and proportions of propionate (P=0.01) were greater for diets containing fresh sugarcane. Diets with fresh sugarcane increased the ruminal population of Streptococcus bovis (P<0.01) and Ruminococcus albus (P=0.03). The relative population of R. albus was also greater (P=0.04) for diets containing the sugarcane genotype with high NDFD. Feeding diets containing the sugarcane genotype with high NDFD increased Fibrobacter succinogenes population but only when sugarcane was fed as freshly cut (P=0.02). Using sugarcane genotypes with high NDFD can increase intake and benefit fiber-degrading bacteria in the rumen.

Regeneration of skin tissue promoted by mesenchymal stem cells seeded in nanostructured membrane.

BACKGROUND: The mesenchymal stem cell therapy has proven to be an effective option in the treatment of skin injuries. The combination of these cells with nanostructured membranes seems to be the future for tissues recovery. The aim of this project was to use biomolecules of polysaccharides to be incorporated on regenerated cellulose membranes and to prospect the improvement as bioactive wound dressings with mesenchymal stem cells. METHODS: The biocomposites were obtained after defibrillation with the use of never-dried bacterial cellulose to form a pulp, and, after the films were regenerated, in the presence of gellan gum with or without fluconazole. Membrane atomic force microscopy was performed for comparison of their structures. RESULTS: Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells were obtained from human adipose tissue liposuction in accordance with Zuk et al. The flow cytometric analysis and induction tests for adipocytes and osteocytes were performed. In vitro assays were performed on different membranes to evaluate the ability of these cells to adhere at 2 hours and proliferate at 7 days; the results were obtained by use of the MTT cell counting technique. In vivo testing allowed us to observe cell migration and participation in wound-healing by fluorescence labeling of the cells with BrdU. The bioactive curative, seeded with cells, was tested in skin burned in a murine model. CONCLUSIONS: The bacterial cellulose with gelan gum membrane incorporated with fluconazole presented the best performance in adhesion and proliferation tests. The cells can be identified in burned host tissue after occurrence of the wound.

The influence of morphology, follicle size and Bcl-2 and Bax transcripts on the developmental competence of bovine oocytes.

This study analysed two non-invasive oocyte selection methods in relation to in vitro embryo development capacity and expression of apoptosis-related genes. Selection was based on morphological quality of oocytes or follicle diameter. Oocytes were classified as grade I (GI ≥3 layers compact cumulus cells and homogeneous cytoplasm; grade II (GII ≤3 layers compact cells and homogeneous cytoplasm;, and grade III (GIII ≥3 layers, but cells with slight expansion and slightly granulated cytoplasm). Blastocyst development was lower for GII (28.5%) than for GIII (47.7%, p < 0.05), and GI was similar to both (36.9%, p > 0.05). Relative expression of Bcl-2 gene was lower in the GI (1.0, p < 0.05) than in the GII (1.8) and GIII (2.2), which were not different (p > 0.05). There was no difference (p > 0.05) between GI (1.0), GII (0.92) and GIII (0.93) regarding the Bax transcript. However, the Bax and Bcl-2 transcript ratios in GII (Bax; 0.92 and Bcl-2; 1.8) and GIII (Bax; 0.93 and Bcl-2; 2.2) were different (p < 0.05). Regarding oocytes from follicles of different sizes, cleavage and blastocyst rates for 1-3 mm (82.5; 23.7%) were lower (p < 0.05) than for 6-9 mm (95.6; 41.1%), but similar (p > 0.05) to 3-6 mm (93.7; 35.4%), which were not different (p > 0.05). Regarding Bax and Bcl-2 expression, the oocytes were similar (p > 0.05) for 1-3 mm (Bax; 1.0 and Bcl-2; 1.0), 3-6 mm (Bax; 1.0 and Bcl-2; 0.93) and 6-9 mm (Bax; 0.92 and Bcl-2; 0.91). In conclusion, oocyte selection based on morphological appearance does not guarantee the success of embryonic development. Additionally, the absence of apoptosis is not necessarily a benefit for the development of oocytes. Bovine COCs with initial signs of atresia may be used for the in vitro production of embryos, and COCs taken from follicles >3 mm in diameter are better suited to in vitro embryo development.

Pre- and post-operative evaluations of eight dogs following right nephrectomy due to Dioctophyma renale.

BACKGROUND: Dioctophyma renale is a large nematode distributed worldwide that may cause progressive and severe destruction of renal parenchyma. OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to evaluate pre- and post-operatively dogs submitted to right nephrectomy due to D. renale and to assess the histopathological damage of the removed kidney. ANIMALS AND METHODS: Eight crossbred dogs, aged from 12 to 48 months that were unilaterally nephrectomized due to the presence of D. renale were evaluated. Physical examination, urinalysis, complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and abdominal ultrasound were performed immediately before and one month after nephrectomy. The nephrectomized right kidneys were submitted to macroscopic and microscopic evaluations. RESULTS: Urinalysis preoperatively detected occult blood in all dogs and D. renale eggs in five cases. Complete blood count showed all parameters within the reference range, except one dog post-operatively. Serum biochemistry performed before and after surgery verified that urea, creatinine and sodium were within the reference range values in all dogs. Other findings varied among the dogs. The length and arterial resistive index mean values of the left kidney were similar pre- and post-operatively. CONCLUSIONS: Thus, the inconsiderable change in laboratory findings pre- and post-operatively was attributable to compensation by left kidney function for the removed abnormal right kidney. Right kidney histology revealed chronic nephropathy due to D. renale. CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Imaging diagnosis should be performed on dogs suspected as carrying the disease or on those from an enzootic area since the laboratory findings are not specific except eggs in the urine.

Effects of long-term in vitro culturing of transgenic bovine donor fibroblasts on cell viability and in vitro developmental potential after nuclear transfer.

Genetically modified animals have numerous applications, ranging from basic research to livestock production and agriculture. Recent progress in animal cloning by nuclear transfer has made possible the production of transgenic animals using previously genetically modified cell lineages. However, to produce such lineages, an additional time for in vitro culturing and great manipulation is needed. Herein, we aimed to characterize different aspects of genetically modified cells compared to control cells, and we also analyzed the development rate of embryos produced by nuclear transfer by using them as nuclei donors after short or long periods of in vitro culturing (early versus late passages). We hypothesized that the genetic material inserted in the genome of these cells, associated with the prolonged time in culture, ultimately alters cell growth physiology and cell viability, which leads to impaired nuclei reprogramming potential and consequent reduction in the production of cloned blastocysts. Fetal fibroblasts expressing the enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein gene (eGFP) cultured for different periods in vitro were analyzed with respect to chromosomal numeric abnormalities, nuclear DNA fragmentation, the ratio of BAX and BCL2 gene transcripts, and the intensity of mitochondrial membrane potential, and they were then used as nuclei donors for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Early passages were defined as fewer than 11 passages, and late passages were 18th passage (18(th)p) to 21(st)p. No differences were observed in the percentage of cells with chromosomal abnormalities or in the mitochondrial membrane potential analysis. eGFP cells in late passages and control cells in early passages were not different regarding DNA fragmentation; however, control cells in late passages presented higher fragmentation (P < 0.05). The Bax and Bcl2 gene expression ratio in control and transgenic cells presented different patterns regarding cell conditions during culture. For SCNT experiments, no difference was observed between groups reconstructed with early or late-passage cells when fusion (63.1% and 49%), cleavage (67.7% and 69.9%), eight-cell embryo (36.4% and 44.4%) and blastocyst (21.6% and 20.8%) rates were compared. In conclusion, culture behavior was different between control and eGFP cells. However, when different in vitro culturing periods were compared, long-term cultured transgenic fetal fibroblasts remained competent for blastocyst production when used as nuclei donors in the nuclear transfer technique, a feature needed for the genetic manipulation of cell culture experiments aiming for transgenic animal production.

Risk factors associated with seroprevalence of Neospora caninum in dogs from urban and rural areas of milk and coffee production in Minas Gerais state, Brazil.

This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of anti-Neospora caninum antibodies and to investigate the risk factors related to seroprevalence in dogs from urban and rural areas with distinct economic activities (milk and coffee production) in Minas Gerais state, Brazil. For this purpose, blood samples from 703 dogs were collected and questionnaires addressing epidemiological aspects were completed by dog-owners. The sera were analysed for anti-N. caninum antibodies by indirect fluorescent antibody tests (IFAT ≥ 1:50). Association between epidemiological aspects and seropositivity in dogs was evaluated with multivariate logistic regression models. A total of 80 (11·4%) dogs tested positive for N. caninum. In the multivariate logistic regression models, dogs aged >4 years, dogs used as guard dogs, dogs that spontaneously hunt, and history of bovine abortion were found to be greater risk factors for canine N. caninum infection. When we considered only dogs from rural areas, an association with seroprevalence was seen for milk farms, dogs not fed with commercial food, dogs that hunt, and dogs used as guard dogs.

Radiografia intraoral e convencional da hemiarcada superior direita de gatos domésticos / Intraoral and convencional radiography of the right maxilla hemiarcade of domestic cats

A proposta com este trabalho foi avaliar a hemiarcada superior direita de gatos domésticos por meio de técnicas radiográficas odontológicas do paralelismo, empregando-se filmes intraorais aos posicionadores de Han Shin. As imagens obtidas por essa metodologia foram correlacionadas com as técnicas radiográficas convencionais (extraorais), com o intuito de se estabelecerem vantagens ou desvantagens para detectar possíveis afecções dentais e periodontais. Foram utilizados 30 gatos, sem raça definida, 17 machos e 13 fêmeas, faixa etária entre um e três anos, confinados em gatis do Departamento de Zootecnia da Universidade Federal de Lavras/MG. Com os animais sob anestesia geral, foram realizadas radiografias da hemiarcada superior direita, incluindo três incisivos, um canino, três pré-molares e um molar em radiografias intraorais e extraorais. As imagens radiográficas foram analisadas e efetuaram-se comparações qualitativas entre pares intraorais e convencionais dos mesmos animais. Para se estabelecer a técnica radiográfica dental mais bem adaptada, foram realizadas análises estatísticas pelo teste de McNemar (qui-quadrado modificado). A técnica intraoral mostrou ser superior à extraoral (P<0,05), para achados referentes a espaço periodontal aumentado, canal radicular amplo e arredondamento de ápice, e também para a avaliação mais bem detalhada de dentes caninos, pré-molares e molares em gatos.

The aim of this research was to evaluate the right maxilla hemiarcade of cats through parallel dental radiographic techniques, applying Han Shin intraoral film positioner. Images obtained with this method were correlated with conventional radiographic techniques (extraoral). The goal was to establish the advantages and disadvantages to detect possible dental and periodontal diseases. Thirty mixed breed cats were evaluated, 17 males and 13 females, ages one to three years old, confined in catteries in the Department of Zootecnia of the Federal University of Lavras/MG. Radiographies of the right maxilla were taken with the animals under general anesthesia, and three incisors, one canine, three premolars and one molar teeth were included in the intraoral and extraoral images. The radiographic images were analyzed and a qualitative comparison of pairs of intraoral and conventional images from the same animals was achieved. To establish the dental image procedures that were better adapted for cats, the McNemar Test (Modified Qui-Square) was used for statistical analysis. The intraoral technique was superior than the extra oral (P<0,05), for findings relating to increased periodontal space, broad root canal and rounded apex, and also for a more detailed evaluation of canine, premolar and molar teeth in cats.