Nutritional value of meat lipid fraction obtained from mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos) reared in semiextensive conditions for hunting purposes.

The mallard duck or wild duck (Anas platyrhynchos) is the world's most widespread and numerous dabbling duck, being traditionally hunted across many countries in Europe and North America. This study aims to provide a detailed characterization of mallard duck's meat lipid fraction obtained from farmed specimens, reared for hunting purposes, under semiextensive conditions. The mallard's duck meat total lipid content averaged 2.0 and 4.26 g/100 g of fresh meat in breast and leg meat portions, and its meat comprised 23 individual fatty acids (FA) and 3 dimethylacetals (DMA), independently of the sex or meat portion. The oleic (C18:1 cis-9), palmitic (C16:0), stearic (C18:0), linoleic (C18:2n-6), arachidonic (C20:4n-6), palmitoleic (C16:1 cis-9), and cis-vaccenic (C18:1 cis-11) acids were the predominant FA (representing >1% of total fatty acids in both breast and leg meat portions and independently of the sex), and together, these 7 fatty acids were accountable for 92.4 to 96.5% of total FA plus DMA in mallard duck meat. The monounsaturated, saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids were accountable for 40.4, 35.0, and 21.0% of total FA plus DMA in breast and 54.6, 38.7, and 5.7% of total fatty acids in leg, while total DMA were liable for 3.6 and 0.9% of total FA plus DMA in breast and leg, respectively. The mallard duck meat total cholesterol content averaged 49.8 and 57.1 mg/100 g of fresh meat for breast and leg meat portions. Five tocochromanols were quantified in mallard duck meat, affording it with a total vitamin E content of 5.48 and 3.63 µg/g of fresh meat in breast and leg portions. The sex had no influence (P > 0.05) on mallard's duck meat lipid composition, but meat portion had a strong influence on mallard's duck meat lipid composition, influencing total lipid, total cholesterol, total vitamin E contents, FA partial sums, FA ratios (exception made for the n-6/n-3 ratio), and all nutritional lipid indices. The breast meat presented lower total lipid and total cholesterol contents, better FA ratios and nutritional quality indices and higher vitamin E content, being regarded as a healthier meat than leg. The study presented herein shows that mallard duck production in semiextensive conditions, similar to those used herein, could be used for the production of mallard duck beyond hunting. A production of duck's meat under natural or organic production practices, oriented to a market niche within the gourmet/organic markets.

Intraocular pressure and pupil diameter in healthy cats anesthetized with isoflurane and pre-medicated with isolated acepromazine or in combination with tramadol / [Pressão intraocular e diâmetro pupilar em gatos saudáveis anestesiados com isoflurano e pré-medicados com acepromazina isolada ou em combinação com tramadol]

The objective of this study was to determine changes on intraocular pressure (IOP) and pupil diameter (PD) in healthy cats anesthetized with isoflurane, and premedicated with acepromazine alone or in combination with tramadol. Thirty cats were allocated in two groups (n=15/each) and were treated with acepromazine (AG) or acepromazine/tramadol (ATG). PD and IOP were assessed before and following 30 (PM1), and 40 minutes (PM2) of treatments. Anesthesia was induced with propofol, and IOP and DP were recorded (A10) at 10 minute intervals until the end of anesthesia (A40). IOP decreased in AG and ATG, when comparing baseline with PM1. IOP decreased only in AG, in comparisons between baseline and PM2. During anesthesia, IOP did not change within and between groups. Comparisons between baseline with those recorded at PM1 and 2 showed that PD increased in the ATG. During anesthesia, PD decreased significantly in AG and ATG. Both protocols maintained the IOP within the reference range to perform corneal or intraocular surgery in healthy cats but did not sustain pre-anesthetic pupil dilation observed in ATG.(AU)

O objetivo do presente artigo é determinar possíveis alterações na pressão intraocular (PIO) e no diâmetro pupilar (DP) em gatos saudáveis anestesiados com isoflurano e pré-medicados com acepromazina isolada ou em combinação com acepromazina/tramadol. Trinta gatos saudáveis foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos (n=15/cada) e tratados com acepromazina (GA) ou acepromazina/tramadol (GAT). DP e PIO foram avaliadas antes (basal) e após 30 (PM1) e 40 minutos (PM2) dos tratamentos. A anestesia foi induzida com propofol, e a PIO e o DP foram registrados (A10) a cada 10 minutos até o final da anestesia com isoflurano (A40). Ao se compararem os valores obtidos no basal com PM1, a PIO diminuiu em GA e GAT; com PM2, a PIO reduziu apenas no GA. Durante a anestesia, a PIO não diferiu dentro e entre os grupos. Comparações entre os valores basais e os registrados em PM1 e em PM2 mostraram que a DP aumentou significativamente no GAT. Durante a anestesia, o DP diminuiu significativamente em GA e GAT. Ambos os protocolos mantêm a PIO dentro dos valores de referência para realizar cirurgias corneanas ou intraoculares em gatos saudáveis, mas não sustentam a dilatação pupilar pré-anestésica observada em GAT.(AU)

Footwear designed to enhance energy return improves running economy compared to a minimalist footwear: does it matter for running performance?

The present study compared the effects of a footwear designed to enhance energy return (thermoplastic polyurethane, TPU) vs minimalist shoes on running economy (RE) and endurance performance. In this counterbalanced and crossover design study, 11 recreational male runners performed two submaximal constant-speed running tests and two 3-km time-trials with the two shoe models. Oxygen uptake was measured during submaximal constant-speed running tests in order to determine the RE at 12 km/h and oxygen cost of running (CTO2) at individual average speed sustained during the 3-km running time-trials wearing either of the two shoes. Our results revealed that RE was improved (2.4%) with TPU shoes compared with minimalist shoes (P=0.01). However, there was no significant difference for CTO2 (P=0.61) and running performance (P=0.52) comparing the TPU (710±60 s) and the minimalist (718±63 s) shoe models. These novel findings demonstrate that shoes with enhanced mechanical energy return (i.e. TPU) produced a lower energy cost of running at low (i.e., 12 km/h) but not at high speeds (i.e., average speed sustained during the 3-km running time-trial, ∼15 km/h), ultimately resulting in similar running performance compared to the minimalist shoe.

Effect of kernel processing and particle size of whole-plant corn silage with vitreous endosperm on dairy cow performance.

Kernel processing and theoretical length of cut (TLOC) of whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) can affect feed intake, digestibility, and performance of dairy cows. The objective of this study was to evaluate for lactating dairy cows the effects of kernel processing and TLOC of WPCS with vitreous endosperm. The treatments were a pull-type forage harvester without kernel processor set for a 6-mm TLOC (PT6) and a self-propelled forage harvester with kernel processor set for a 6-mm TLOC (SP6), 12-mm TLOC (SP12), and 18-mm TLOC (SP18). Processing scores of the WPCS were 32.1% (PT6), 53.9% (SP6), 49.0% (SP12), and 40.1% (SP18). Twenty-four Holstein cows (139 ± 63 d in milk) were blocked and assigned to six 4 × 4 Latin squares with 24-d periods (18 d of adaptation). Diets were formulated to contain 48.5% WPCS, 15.5% citrus pulp, 15.0% dry ground corn, 9.5% soybean meal, 6.8% low rumen degradability soybean meal, 1.8% calcium soap of palm fatty acids (FA), 1.7% mineral and vitamin mix, and 1% urea (dry matter basis). Nutrient composition of the diets (% of dry matter) was 16.5% crude protein, 28.9% neutral detergent fiber, and 25.4% starch. Three orthogonal contrasts were used to compare treatments: effect of kernel processing (PT6 vs. SP6) and effect of TLOC (particle size; SP6 vs. SP12 and SP12 vs. SP18). Cows fed SP6 produced 1.2 kg/d greater milk yield with no changes in dry matter intake, resulting in greater feed efficiency compared with PT6. Cows fed SP6 also produced more milk protein (+36 g/d), lactose (+61 g/d), and total solids (+94 g/d) than cows fed PT6. The mechanism for increased yield of milk and milk components involved greater kernel fragmentation, starch digestibility, and glucose availability for lactose synthesis by the mammary gland. However, cows fed SP6 had lower chewing time and tended to have greater levels of serum amyloid A compared with PT6. Milk yield was similar for SP6 and SP12, but SP12 cows tended to have less serum amyloid A with greater chewing time. Cows fed SP18 had lower total-tract starch digestibility and tended to have lower plasma glucose and produce less milk compared with cows fed SP12. Compared with PT6, feeding SP6 raised linear odd-chain FA concentration in milk. Similarly, a reduction of these same FA occurred for SP12 compared with SP6. Cows fed SP6 had greater proportion of milk C14:1 and C16:1 compared with PT6 and SP12. Lesser trans C18:1 followed by greater C18:0 concentrations were observed for SP12 and PT6 compared with SP6, which is an indication of more complete biohydrogenation in the rumen. Under the conditions of this study, the use of a self-propelled forage harvester with kernel processing set for a 12-mm TLOC is recommended for WPCS from hybrids with vitreous endosperm.

Erosive assessment of dry mouth lozenges and tablets on enamel and dentin.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the erosive potential of dry mouth lozenges and tablets on enamel and dentin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The following lozenges and tablets were tested: Salese, Oracoat Xylimelts, Cotton Mouth, TheraBreath, DenTek OraMoist, SmartMouth, ACT, CVS Health, Rite Aid, Med Active, and Hager Pharma. pH Analysis: Each lozenge or tablet was crushed with a pestle and mortar and 5 g of the resultant powder was dissolved in 10 ml of distilled water (pH 7.02) The pH of each lozenge solution was assessed by using a calibrated pH meter. Titratable Acidity (TA) was determined by adding 0.1 M of NaOH to each homogenous tablet solution until the pH reached 7.0. Gravimetric Analysis was measured with freshly extracted molars crown/roots were sectioned at the CEJ and enamel and dentin specimens were fabricated. The specimens were then submerged in 5 ml of solution containing 2.5 gm of crushed tablets for 24 h, 48 h, 96 h and 14 days with measurements performed at each interval after drying. The solutions were renewed at each interval. RESULTS: Significant correlation between pH and TA was observed for lozenges and tablets evaluated (p < 0.0001). Both variables were strongly correlated with enamel and dentin loss (p < 0.0001). For enamel, DenTek resulted in significantly more substance loss (p < 0.05) than with the other tested products, while Xylimelts presented the lowest percentage of substance loss. For dentin, Cotton Mouth resulted in the highest substance loss, and Xylimelts presented the lowest percentage of substance loss. CONCLUSIONS: There is a strong correlation between the pH, tritatable aciditiy, and erosive potential of these products. DenTek and Cotton Mouth reported erosive effect to the enamel and dentin, respectively. Xylimelts performed better than the rest of the products in relationship to enamel and dentin.

Footwear designed to enhance energy return improves running economy compared to a minimalist footwear: does it matter for running performance?

The present study compared the effects of a footwear designed to enhance energy return (thermoplastic polyurethane, TPU) vs minimalist shoes on running economy (RE) and endurance performance. In this counterbalanced and crossover design study, 11 recreational male runners performed two submaximal constant-speed running tests and two 3-km time-trials with the two shoe models. Oxygen uptake was measured during submaximal constant-speed running tests in order to determine the RE at 12 km/h and oxygen cost of running (CTO2) at individual average speed sustained during the 3-km running time-trials wearing either of the two shoes. Our results revealed that RE was improved (2.4%) with TPU shoes compared with minimalist shoes (P=0.01). However, there was no significant difference for CTO2 (P=0.61) and running performance (P=0.52) comparing the TPU (710±60 s) and the minimalist (718±63 s) shoe models. These novel findings demonstrate that shoes with enhanced mechanical energy return (i.e. TPU) produced a lower energy cost of running at low (i.e., 12 km/h) but not at high speeds (i.e., average speed sustained during the 3-km running time-trial, ∼15 km/h), ultimately resulting in similar running performance compared to the minimalist shoe.

Temporary Tooth Separation to Improve Assessment of Approximal Caries Lesions: A School-Based Study.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Radiographic lesion depth should not be used as the single determinant of the restorative threshold for clinically inaccessible approximal caries lesions. Temporary tooth separation is a feasible and effective diagnostic aid for assessment and appropriate management of approximal lesions. SUMMARY: In the era of tooth-preserving dentistry, the decision to restore approximal caries lesions must be based on the accurate assessment of tooth cavitation, as the accumulation of oral biofilms in these areas encourages lesion progression. However, lesions radiographically into dentin remain the main threshold criterion for restoring approximal lesions even though most of these lesions may not be cavitated. A school-based clinical protocol for temporary tooth separation (TTS) was developed to improve visual-tactile assessment and management of clinically inaccessible approximal lesions. TTS data retrieved from electronic health records were used to correlate radiographic lesion depth and surface cavitation status with lesion location and the patient's caries risk and to evaluate the effectiveness of TTS as a diagnostic aid for approximal lesions. Of the 206 lesions assessed, 66.5% (n=137) were located in the maxillary arch, 56.6% (n=116) in distal surfaces, 61.3% (n=114) in premolars, and 21.5% (n=40) in molars. After tooth separation, 79.6% (n=164) of the lesions were diagnosed as noncavitated, including 90% (n=66) of the lesions radiographically at the inner half of enamel (E2) and 66% (n=49) of those at the outer-third of dentin (D1). Logistic regression analysis using E2 and D1 lesions showed no significant association between lesion depth or cavitation status with lesion location and caries risk. TTS is a feasible and effective diagnostic aid for the assessment and appropriate management of approximal caries lesions. There is a need to reevaluate the use of radiographic lesion depth as the single determinant of the restorative threshold for clinically inaccessible approximal lesions.

Chronic osteomyelitis in canine penile bone: case report / Osteomielite crônica em osso peniano canino: relato de caso

A 10-year-old male mixed-breed dog was admitted for recurrent signs of urinary tract infection (UTI). Urinary bladder ultrasonography revealed decreased thickness of its wall with floating hyperopic particles within its lumen. Ultrasonography revealed a structure invading the dorsal wall of the penile urethral lumen, located in a segment distal to the bladder. Radiographies showed bone resorption with proliferation at the caudal aspect of the penile bone, stricture of the final aspect of the penile urethra, and no radiopaque images compatible with a urethrolith. Computed tomography showed bone proliferation causing stricture of the urethral lumen at two different sites. Presumptive diagnosis of penile neoplasia was considered more likely and the dog underwent penectomy along with orchiectomy and scrotal urethrostomy. Enterobacter spp. was cultured from the urine sample and antibiotic sensitivity tests revealed that the bacterium was susceptible to amikacin, imipenem, and meropenem. Histopathology revealed severe suppurative urethritis, bone resorption, and hyperostosis, suggestive of osteomyelitis of the penile bone. Neoplastic cells were not observed at any part of the examined tissue. The findings in the present case suggest that osteomyelitis of the penile bone should be included in differential diagnosis for partial and complete urethral obstruction in dogs with recurrent UTI.(AU)

Um cão mestiço, com 10 anos, foi admitido por sinais recorrentes de infecção do trato urinário (ITU). A ultrassonografia da bexiga urinária revelou diminuição da espessura de sua parede com partículas flutuantes dentro de seu lúmen. A ultrassonografia demonstrou estrutura invadindo a parede dorsal do lúmen da uretra peniana, localizada em segmento distal à bexiga. Radiografias evidenciaram reabsorção óssea com proliferação no aspecto caudal do osso peniano, estenose do aspecto final da uretra peniana e ausência de imagens radiopacas compatíveis com uretrólito. Pela tomografia computadorizada, observou-se proliferação óssea causando estreitamento da luz uretral em dois locais diferentes. Diagnóstico presuntivo de neoplasia peniana foi considerado mais provável e o cão foi submetido à penectomia, juntamente com orquiectomia e uretrostomia escrotal. Enterobacter spp. foi cultivada da amostra de urina e testes de sensibilidade revelaram susceptibilidade ao amicacina, imipenem e ao meropenem. A histopatologia revelou uretrite supurativa grave, reabsorção óssea e hiperostose compatível com osteomielite do osso peniano. Células neoplásicas não foram observadas em nenhuma parte do tecido examinado. Os achados do presente caso sugerem que a osteomielite do osso peniano deve ser incluída no diagnóstico diferencial de obstrução uretral parcial e completa em cães com ITU recorrente.(AU)

Metabolic Profile of Supragingival Plaque Exposed to Arginine and Fluoride.

Caries lesions develop when acid production from bacterial metabolism of dietary carbohydrates outweighs the various mechanisms that promote pH homeostasis, including bacterial alkali production. Therapies that provide arginine as a substrate for alkali production in supragingival oral biofilms have strong anticaries potential. The objective of this study was to investigate the metabolic profile of site-specific supragingival plaque in response to the use of arginine (Arg: 1.5% arginine, fluoride-free) or fluoride (F: 1,100 ppm F/NaF) toothpastes. Eighty-three adults of different caries status were recruited and assigned to treatment with Arg or F for 12 wk. Caries lesions were diagnosed using International Caries Detection and Assessment System II, and plaque samples were collected from caries-free and carious tooth surfaces. Taxonomic profiles were obtained by HOMINGS (Human Oral Microbe Identification using Next Generation Sequencing), and plaque metabolism was assessed by the levels of arginine catabolism via the arginine deiminase pathway (ADS), acidogenicity, and global metabolomics. Principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares-discriminant analysis, analysis of variance, and random forest tests were used to distinguish metabolic profiles. Of the 509 active lesions diagnosed at baseline, 70 (14%) were inactive after 12 wk. Generalized linear model showed that enamel lesions were significantly more likely to become inactive compared to dentin lesions (P < 0.0001), but no difference was found when treatment with Arg was compared to F (P = 0.46). Arg significantly increased plaque ADS activity (P = 0.031) and plaque pH values after incubation with glucose (P = 0.001). F reduced plaque lactate production from endogenous sources (P = 0.02). PCA revealed differences between the metabolic profiles of plaque treated with Arg or F. Arg significantly affected the concentrations of 16 metabolites, including phenethylamine, agmatine, and glucosamine-6-phosphate (P < 0.05), while F affected the concentrations of 9 metabolites, including phenethylamine, N-methyl-glutamate, and agmatine (P < 0.05). The anticaries mechanisms of action of arginine and fluoride are distinct. Arginine metabolism promotes biofilm pH homeostasis, whereas fluoride is thought to enhance resistance of tooth minerals to low pH and reduce acid production by supragingival oral biofilms.

Physicochemical characterization and antimicrobial activity in novel systems containing buriti oil and structured lipids nanoemulsions.

Buriti oil nanoemulsions were prepared using non-interesterified buriti oil or buriti oil interesterified for 6 or 24 h (NBO, NBO6h, and NBO24 h), respectively. The aim was to investigate the effects of interesterified oils on the physicochemical and biological properties of nanoemulsions. Samples were stored at 4 and 25 °C for 30 days, and their physicochemical properties and biological activities were evaluated. The mean droplet diameter of nanoemulsions ranged from 196 to 270 nm. NBO24 h had the smallest droplet size and was the most stable during the storage period. Furthermore, NBO24 h demonstrating the good oxidative stability, had a high antioxidant capacity, and was less susceptible to droplet aggregation. NBO and NBO24 h had similar biological activity against Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli O157: H7); bacterial growth was inhibited by at least 60% at 3.12 mg mL-1. The nanoemulsions have interesting properties for the production of pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food formulations with antimicrobial activity.

Physical approach for a quantitative analysis of the phytosterols in free phytosterol-oil blends by X-ray Rietveld method.

This study investigates and compares the thermal phase transition and crystallization characteristics of a commercial food grade free phytosterol blend (FP) with a stigmasterol analytical standard (SS), the FP behavior in a food model system after its addition to high oleic sunflower oil (HOSO). The properties of the FP:HOSO blends were studied by differential scanning calorimetry, solid content, crystal morphology, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. The Rietveld method (RM) was applied associated with the XRD measurements to support phase analysis and the study of crystallinity degree. The materials were also characterized by means of chemical composition, such as fatty acids and triacylglycerol profiles, for HOSO, and phytosterol profile, for FP. Regarding phase behavior and crystallinity properties, FP has very similar characteristics to SS. The thermal behavior of FP:HOSO blends has two characteristic peaks, one from FP and the other from HOSO. The similarity reported in the literature between the diffraction pattern of FP and pure phytosterols is a positive characteristic for FP. A high FP concentration resulted in high supersaturation and thus the formation of small crystals. The incorporation of HOSO reduced of the large agglomeration of FP crystals and the dispersion crystalline aggregates (spherulites) of FP crystals. The application of RM in FP:HOSO blends to quantify the crystalline and amorphous phases was successfully used. The application has provided the expected value for these phases, according to the same experimental mass ratio of the blends, thereby validating the applicability of this approach in this type of material.

Direct and transdentinal biostimulatory effects of grape seed extract rich in proanthocyanidin on pulp cells.

AIM: To evaluate the potential biostimulatory effects of grape seed extract (GSE) on a primary culture of human pulp cells. METHODOLOGY: Human molars were used to obtain the primary pulp cell culture and 0.5-mm dentine discs. For GSE direct exposure, dose-response (0.0065-6.5%) and time response (1-60 min of contact) were examined. For transdentinal exposure, 0.65% of GSE was tested for 24 h. Cellular metabolism, nitric oxide and collagen production, and cell morphology alterations were assessed at periods of 24 and 72 h. After cell differentiation and direct exposure to GSE, the total protein production (TP), alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and formation of mineralization nodules (MN) were assessed. The results were analysed by parametric tests or non-parametric tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The lower concentration of GSE tested (0.0065%) was associated with an increase in cellular metabolism, a reduction in the production of nitric oxide and an increase in extracellular matrix synthesis (collagen). Distinct behaviours were observed for the different concentrations, without a reduction of cellular metabolism >10% compared with the control, either when applied directly or transdentinally. SEM revealed no significant change in cell morphology, except for the positive control (H2 O2 ). There was no difference in TP, ALP or MN between the control group and the group exposed to GSE. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with grape seed extract, even at the highest concentration and longest period, caused neither direct nor transdentinal cytotoxic effects on human pulp cells. Grape seed extract components may play a biostimulatory role and protect dental pulp cells when in direct contact.

Nutritional value of meat lipid fraction from red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa) obtained from wild and farmed specimens1.

The red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa) is a feathered game species of great socioeconomic importance in its native range and also in the UK. The aim of this study was to present a detailed comparison of meat's lipid fraction obtained from wild and farm-raised specimens and simultaneously compare the breast and leg meat portions. Meat from wild specimens had a significant (P < 0.05) lower proportion of saturated fatty acid (less 5.1%) and presented better P/S and n-6/n-3 ratios, and atherogenicity index than farm-raised counterparts. The wild specimens presented significant (P < 0.001) higher contents of total vitamin E (8.8 vs. 2.2 µg/g of fresh meat), is for that reason less prone to lipid peroxidation than farm-raised specimens. Meat portions differed significantly (P < 0.05) on total lipid and total cholesterol contents and in all partial sums of fatty acids. The breast was leaner (0.86 vs. 1.47 g/100 g of meat), with lower total cholesterol (37.5 vs. 54.7 mg/100 g of meat), lower saturated fatty acid, monounsaturated fatty acid, polyunsaturated fatty acid, and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (less 0.27, 0.28, 0.10, and 0.11 g/100 g of fresh meat, correspondingly). Regarding the fatty acid ratios and lipid quality indexes, breast meat presents better n-6/n-3 ratio and atherogenicity and thrombogenicity indexes.

Evaluation of cell toxicity and DNA and protein binding of green synthesized silver nanoparticles.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were prepared by GREEN chemistry relying on the reduction of AgNO3 by phytochemicals present in black tea extract. AgNPs were fully characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy ((UV-vis)), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive absorption spectroscopy (EDS). The synthesized AgNPs induced a decrease of the cell viability in a dose-dependent manner with a low IC50 (0.5 ±â€¯0.1 µM) for an ovarian carcinoma cell line (A2780) compared to primary human fibroblasts (IC50 5.0 ±â€¯0.1 µM). The DNA binding capability of CT (calf thymus) DNA was investigated using electronic absorption and fluorescence spectroscopies, circular dichroism and viscosity titration methods. Additionally, the AgNPs strongly quench the intrinsic fluorescence of BSA, as determined by synchronous fluorescence spectra.

Impacto do grau de uveíte em diferentes tipos de úlceras de córneas em cães submetidos ao enxerto pediculado de conjuntiva bulbar - 34 casos / Impact of uveitis score on different types of corneal ulcers in dogs subjected to the bulbar conjunctival pedicle graft - 34 cases

O presente trabalho objetivou avaliar os resultados de 34 olhos submetidos ao enxerto conjuntival pediculado (ECP) em ceratites ulcerativas profundas (n=5), em ceratites ulcerativas com colagenólise (n=2), descemetocele (n=7), perfuração corneal (n=15) e prolapso de íris (n=5). Os impactos do grau de uveíte e da integridade da córnea foram correlacionados com presença e ausência de visão por tabelas de contingência. Raças braquicefálicas foram acometidas em 91,11% dos casos. O número de córneas consideradas perfuradas [20/34 (58,82%)] foi maior que o de córneas íntegras [14/34 (41,17%)]. Ao 50º dia de pós-operatório, o número de olhos visuais que apresentavam córneas íntegras previamente às cirurgias (n=13) não diferiu significativamente dos olhos com córneas perfuradas (n=12) (P=0,05). Avaliações relativas ao grau de uveíte, revelaram que a metade dos casos foi considerada severa [17/34 (50%)] e na outra metade as uveítes foram consideradas discretas. Dos 17 casos que apresentaram uveíte severa, oito recuperaram a visão. Já nos 17 olhos onde a uveíte foi considerada leve, 15 mantiveram a visão ao final do período de avaliação. Apesar de a integridade da córnea não se correlacionar com a severidade da uveíte (P=0,48), constatou-se que o número de olhos visuais com uveíte discreta foi significativamente maior que os olhos com uveíte severa (P=0,006). Neste estudo, a taxa geral de sucesso visual após ECP foi de 73,52% e a integridade da córnea não exerceu impacto significativo sobre a manutenção da visão. Todavia, olhos acometidos por uveítes severas apresentaram menor chance de recuperar a visão.(AU)

The present study aimed to evaluate the results of 34 eyes of dogs presenting deep corneal ulcer (n=5), colagenolytic corneal ulcer (n=2), descemetocele (n=7), corneal perforation (n=15), and iris prolapse (n=5) that were corrected by the bulbar conjuntival pedicle graft (CPG). The uveitis score and the corneal integrity were correlated with the presence or absence of vision by contingency tables. Brachycephalic breeds accounted for 91.11% of all cases. The number of perforated corneas [20/34 (58.82%)] were higher than the non-perforated ones [14/34 (41.17%)]. At post-operative day 50, the number of visual eyes with non-perforated corneas before surgery (n=13) did not differ significantly from the eyes with perforated corneas (n=12) (P = 0.05). In half of the cases, uveitis score was considered severe [17/34 (50%)], and in the other half, mild. Eight out of 17 eyes classified with severe uveitis regained vision. In 17 eyes where uveitis score was considered mild, 16 regained vision at the end of the study. Although corneal integrity was non-correlated with the uveitis score (P = 0.48), the number of visual eyes scored with mild uveitis were significantly larger than the eyes with severe uveitis (P = 0.006). In this study, the overall success visual rate after CPG was 73,52% % and the corneal integrity did not play an important role regarding maintenance of vision. However, eyes presenting severe uveitis score had less chance to regain vision.(AU)

Effect of 0, 15% sodium hialuronate and 0, 5% carboxymethylcellulose on tear film breakup time in healthy dogs and in dogs with keratoconjunctivitis sicca / Efeito do hialuronato de sódio a 0, 15% e da carboximetilcelulose sódica a 0, 5% no tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal de cães saudáveis e com ceratoconjuntivite seca

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the 0.15% sodium hyaluronate (SH) and of 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) on tear film breakup time (TFBUT) in 10 healthy dogs and in 32 eyes of dogs with keratoconjunctivis sicca (KCS). In addition, the goblet cell density (GCD) of this population was quantified. TFBUT was assessed at baseline and at different time points following the instillation of SH and CMC. KCS was graded as mild, moderate, and severe. GCD were quantified from conjunctival biopsies. The number of GCD differed significantly between patients with mild and moderate KCS (P<0.01). TFBUT of healthy dogs increased only for 1 minute after treatment with SH (P<0.01). Regarding baseline and treatments, SH significantly increased TFBUT for up to 30 minutes on the ocular surface, in comparison to CMC, in all categories of KCS (P<0.01). TFBUT and GCD correlated positively when the healthy and diseased eyes were grouped (r=0.41, P=0.006). It can be concluded that in dogs with KCS, SH lasts longer periods on the ocular surface than CMC, but such agents does not increase TFBUT in healthy dogs. Additionally, tear film stability tends to reduce in a linear fashion from the mild to severe form of KCS.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos do hialuronato de sódio a 0,15% (HS) e da carboximetilcelulose a 0,5% (CMC) no teste de ruptura do filme lacrimal (TRFL) em 10 cães saudáveis e em 32 olhos de cães com ceratoconjuntivite seca (CCS). Ademais, quantificou-se a densidade de células caliciformes (DCC) deles. Mensurou-se o TRFL em momentos distintos antes e após a instilação do HS e da CMC. Graduou-se a CCS em leve, moderada e severa. Quantificou-se a DCC a partir de biópsias conjuntivais. A DCC diferiu apenas entre pacientes com CCS leve e severa (P<0,01). Em cães saudáveis, o TRFL se elevou apenas após um minuto do tratamento com HS (P<0,01). Relativamente ao período basal e entre os tratamentos, o HS elevou o TRFL de forma mais eficaz e permaneceu por até 30 minutos na superfície ocular, comparativamente à CMC, em todas as categorias de CCS (P<0,01). Ao se agruparem os olhos saudáveis e os com CCS, o TRFL se correlacionou com a DCC (r=0.41, P=0.006). Conclui-se que o HS permanece por maior tempo na superfície ocular que a CMC em cães com CCS, mas que tais substâncias não elevam o TRFL em cães saudáveis. Ademais, a estabilidade do filme lacrimal tende a se reduzir de modo linear da forma leve até à severa da CCS.(AU)

Ocular manifestations of leishmaniasis in a cat: first case report from Brazil / Manifestações oculares da leishmaniose em um gato: primeiro relato de caso do Brasil

An 8-year-old domestic short hair female cat initially presented with bilateral uveitis with pseudotumoral appearance. The patient tested negative for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and Toxoplasma gondii. Histopathology of a granulomatous lesion on the upper left conjunctiva revealed amastigotes compatible with Leishmania spp. Aqueous humor was aspired and the diagnosis was confirmed after isolation of promastigotes cultivated in biphasic NNN medium and by positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Leishmania infantum. Treatment with allopurinol (10mg/kg/ BID/PO) was commenced and a natural insect repellent was prescribed. Six months of treatment with allopurinol associated with the initial topical medications helped to improve ocular signs. Leishmaniasis should be considered as a differential diagnosis in cats presenting uveitis with pseudotumoral appearance. To our knowledge, this is the first report of feline leishmaniasis with ocular manifestation in Brazil, in which diagnosis was confirmed by aqueous humor analysis.(AU)

Uma gata, sem raça definida, de oito anos de idade, foi atendida inicialmente com uveíte bilateral, com aparência pseudotumoral em íris. Foi realizado teste para o vírus da imunodeficiência felina (FIV), da leucemia felina (FeLV) e de Toxoplasma gondii, obtendo-se resultados negativos. O exame histopatológico da conjuntiva superior do olho esquerdo revelou amastigotas compatíveis com Leishmania spp. Foi realizada paracentese, e promastigotas foram isoladas no humor aquoso, cultivadas em meio NNN bifásica. Reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) confirmou diagnóstico positivo para Leishmania infantum. Tratamento com alopurinol (10mg/kg/BID/PO) foi iniciado, e um repelente natural de insetos foi prescrito. Seis meses de tratamento com alopurinol associado aos medicamentos tópicos iniciais ajudaram a melhorar os sinais oculares. Leishmaniose deve ser considerada como um diagnóstico diferencial nos gatos que apresentam uveíte com aparência pseudotumoral de íris. Até o presente momento, este é o primeiro relato de leishmaniose felina com manifestação exclusivamente ocular da doença no Brasil cujo diagnóstico foi confirmado por meio de análise de humor aquoso.(AU)

Intratracheal LPS administration attenuates the acute hypoxic ventilatory response: Role of brainstem IL-1ß receptors.

Perinatal inflammation and infection are commonly associated with various respiratory morbidities in preterm infants including apnea of prematurity. In this study, we investigated whether pulmonary inflammation via intra-tracheal micro-injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) into neonatal rats modifies respiratory neural control via an IL-1ß receptor-dependent mechanism. Prior to an intra-tracheal micro-injection of LPS (1mg/kg), 10day old (Postnatal age, P10) rats received an intraperitoneal (i.p.) or intracisternal (i.c.) micro-injection of the IL-1ß receptor antagonist AF12198. Whole-body plethysmography was performed two hours later to assess the magnitude of the acute hypoxic (HVR) and hypercapnic (HCVR) ventilatory responses. Intra-tracheal LPS dose-dependently attenuated the acute HVR compared to saline (control) treated rats, whereas the HCVR was not affected. Pre-treatment with an i.c. (but not i.p.) micro-injection of AF12198 15min prior to LPS prevented the attenuated HVR. These data indicate that intrapulmonary inflammation affects brainstem respiratory neural pathways mediating the ventilatory response to acute hypoxia via an IL-1ß-dependent pathway. These findings are relevant to our understanding of the way that pulmonary inflammation may affect central neural mechanisms of respiratory insufficiency commonly seen in preterm infants.

Using chiral ionic liquid additives to enhance asymmetric induction in a Diels-Alder reaction.

A bis-oxazoline ligand has been complexed using Cu(ii) and Zn(ii) trifluoromethanesulfonate and a range of chiral ionic liquid (CIL) additives based on natural products were used as a co-catalyst for a Diels-Alder reaction. The catalytic performance of these systems was compared for the asymmetric Diels-Alder reaction between N-acryloyloxazolidinone and cyclopentadiene with and without the presence of a CIL additive. In the absence of the CIL, both catalysts resulted in low enantioselectivities in conventional solvents and ionic liquids. However, whilst only a minor effect of the CIL was observed for the Cu based catalyst, in the case of the Zn based catalyst, significant enhancements in endo enantioselectivity of up to 50% were found on the addition of a CIL.

Effects of timolol maleate, levobunolol and apraclonidine on intraocular pressure, pupil size, blood pressure and heart rate in beagles / Efeitos do maleato de timolol, do levobunolol e da apraclonidina sobre a pressão intraocular, o diâmetro pupilar, a pressão sanguínea e a frequência cardíaca, em cães da raça Beagle

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in intraocular pressure (IOP), pupil size (PS), blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and ECG variables (Pms wave PmV, PR interval, QRS complex, RMV wave and QT intervals) over time during the instillation of 0.5% timolol, 0.5% levobunolol and 0.5% apraclonidine in clinically normal dogs. Ten adult beagles were used. Baseline values were measured at 8a.m., 2p.m. and 8p.m., for three consecutive days. A waiting period of 10 days between the administrations of each drug was established. For 15 consecutive days, the drug being tested was instilled in one eye of each dog twice a day (7a.m. and 7p.m.). The parameters were evaluated at the aforementioned times on days 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15. Data were statistically compared using the Bonferroni test and one-way repeated measures analysis of variance (P<0.05). The Pearson test was used to evaluate any correlation between QT interval, HR and BP. The tested drugs did not find a decrease in IOP. A significant decreased in PS was observed in almost all dogs following levobunolol administration, relative to the control eye. A significant decrease in HR was observed on day 3 following levobunolol treatment, while apraclonidine induced an increase on day 15. Blood pressure was reduced in all measurement time points following apraclonidine treatment. A negative correlation between QT interval and HR was only observed in dogs treated with timolol. In conclusion, levobunolol was the only drug that induced significant alterations in PS. Apraclonidine was the only drug that induced systemic hypotension. Timolol was the only drug to that induced a negative correlation between QT and HR.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as mudanças na pressão intraocular (PIO), no diâmetro pupilar (DP), na pressão sanguínea (PS), na frequência cardíaca (FC) e nas variáveis eletrocardiográficas (onda Pms, PmV, intervalo PR, complexo QRS, onda RmV e intervalo QT), ao longo do tempo da instilação do timolol 0,5%, do levobunolol 0,5% e da apraclonidina 0,5% em cães clinicamente normais. Dez Beagles adultos compuseram o estudo. Valores basais foram mensurados às oito,, 14 e 20 horas, durante três dias consecutivos. Foi instituído um período de espera de 10 dias entre a administração de cada fármaco. Durante 15 dias consecutivos, um olho de cada animal recebeu uma gota de cada um deles, a intervalos de 12 horas (às sete e às 19 horas). Os parâmetros foram avaliados nos momentos acima referidos, nos dias três, seis, nove, 12 e 15. Os dados foram comparados estatisticamente empregando-se o teste de Bonferroni após análise de variância para medidas repetidas (P<0,05). Teste de Pearson foi utilizado para correlação entre o intervalo QT com a FC e a PS. Não se encontrou diminuição da PIO. Observou-se redução significativa do DP na quase totalidade dos animais que receberam levobunol, relativamente ao olho controle. Diminuição significativa da FC foi vista ao terceiro dia após a administração do levobunolol, enquanto apraclonidina induziu aumento no 15º dia. A pressão arterial foi reduzida em todos os momentos com a apraclonidina. Observou-se correlação negativa entre o intervalo QT e a FC apenas nos indivíduos tratados com o timolol. Em conclusão, levobunolol foi o único fármaco que induziu alterações significativas no DP. A apraclonidina foi o único fármaco que induziu hipotensão sistêmica significativa. O timolol foi o único a ensejar correlação negativa entre o intervalo QT e a FC.(AU)