Assessment of animal welfare in fattening pig farms certified in good livestock practices.

Commercial swine producers are responsible for implementing changes in their production systems to ensure animal welfare. The objective of this study is to evaluate the levels of animal welfare on rearing and fattening farms certified in good animal husbandry practices using the Welfare Quality® protocol. Eighty-one certified commercial farms (n = 2,150 pigs), distributed in six geographical areas of Colombia, were evaluatedby six trained veterinarians. . A multilevel analysis was performed to identify variables associated with the animal welfare/farm rating and to identify behavioral variables. Farms evaluated had an enhanced (n = 68, 83.9%), followed by excellent (n = 7, 8.7%) and acceptable (n = 6, 7.4%) level of animal welfare. Variables significantly associated with the overall protocol rating (R2 = 0.37) were temperature comfort (OR: 1.05, p = 0.008), absence of disease (OR: 1.06, p = 0.02) and absence of pain (OR: 1.06, p = 0.0001). Significant differences in behavioral measures were observed across farms (P < 0.05). The high animal welfare scores of certified farms suggest changes in producers' understanding and attitudes towards production and animal welfare.

Study of the Feasibility of Proposed Measures to Assess Animal Welfare for Zebu Beef Farms within Pasture-Based Systems under Tropical Conditions.

Pasture-based production systems are predominant in major beef-producing countries; however, these systems lack validated protocols to assess animal welfare under commercial conditions. The objective of this study was to test the feasibility of the proposed measures and methodology for the evaluation of animal welfare in fattening cattle under pasture conditions. The initial methodology was developed with the participation of producers, professionals, the general public, and the Colombian health authority, through workshops with a participatory approach and collaborative knowledge management. The study was carried out in 24 pasture-based commercial Zebu cattle farms in the middle Magdalena region of Colombia. Visits were made with an average duration of 2.5 h, which included the evaluation of 788 fattening cattle. The methodology evaluated animal-based, resource-based, and management-based indicators through a questionnaire-guided interview to evaluate cattle handling and health, animal-based measurements, and documentation management. A protocol validation process was carried out by selecting indicators that remained unchanged, adjusting those that were feasible to implement, and removing inadequate indicators. The application of the methodology demonstrated that there are feasible measures to include in the evaluation protocols of pasture-based fattening systems. Likewise, the active participation of producers is crucial to achieving a greater commitment to the implementation of this methodology for the assessment of animal welfare in cattle under pasture conditions.

Exercise increases MEF2A abundance in rat cardiac muscle by downregulating microRNA-223-5p.

Exercise plays an important role in cardiac health and enhances the transport of glucose in cardiac muscle by increasing the glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4) content at the cell membrane. The GLUT4 gene is a target of myocyte enhancer transcription factor 2A (MEF2A). Several transcription factors are regulated by microRNAs (miRs), small non-coding RNAs that control gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. In this study we tested the hypothesis that exercise regulates the expression of miR-223 and that MEF2A is a direct target of miR-223. Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot experiments showed that GLUT4 gene expression and protein abundance increased by 30 and 23%, respectively, in the microsomal fraction immediately after exercise, and had returned to control levels after 18 h. In contrast, the increase in GLUT4 in the membrane fraction was delayed. Exercise also increased the protein abundance of transcription factors involved in GLUT4 expression. Immediately after exercise, the protein abundance of MEF2A, nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1), and forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) increased by 18, 30, and 40%, respectively. qRT-PCR experiments showed that miR-223-3p and miR-223-5p expression decreased immediately after exercise by 60 and 30%, respectively, and luciferase assays indicated that MEF2A is a target of the 5p strand of miR-223. Overexpression of miR-223-5p in H9c2 cells decreased the protein abundance of MEF2A. Our results suggest that the exercise-induced increase in GLUT4 content in cardiac muscle is partly due to the posttranscriptional increase in MEF2A protein abundance caused by the decrease in miR-223-5p expression. The exercise-induced decrease in miR-223-3p expression likely contributes to the increases in NRF1 and FOXO1 abundance and GLUT4 content.

Synthesis and Electrochemical Evaluation of MSNs-PbAE Nanocontainers for the Controlled Release of Caffeine as a Corrosion Inhibitor.

In this paper, a controlled-release system of caffeine as a corrosion inhibitor was obtained by encapsulating it in MCM-41 silica nanoparticles coated with a poly(ß-amino ester) (PbAE), a pH-sensible polymer. Encapsulation was verified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetry (TGA). The release of caffeine from the nanocontainers was analyzed in electrolytes with pH values of 4, 5, and 7 using UV-Vis, showing a 21% higher release in acidic electrolytes than in neutral electrolytes, corroborating its pH sensitivity. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization were used to determine the inhibition mode and efficiency of the encapsulated and free caffeine. The caffeine released from the nanocontainers showed the highest efficiency, which was 85.19%. These results indicate that these nanocontainers could have potential use in smart anticorrosion coating applications.

Welfare assessment of horses and mules used in recreational and muleteer work in the Colombian coffee region.

The welfare of working equids in developing countries is sometimes threatened due to the limited resources and/or knowledge of their owners. The objective of this study is to evaluate the welfare of creole horses and mules using a validated protocol that assesses animal-based indicators. A total of 160 horses and 40 mules from three municipalities in the Colombian coffee-growing region were evaluated by means of direct observation of health and behavioral parameters. A descriptive analysis of the variables expressed in proportions was performed. Interactions between the different measurements were examined using the Chi-squared test. Spearman correlations were used to relate the measurements. Horses and mules demonstrated friendly behavior in front of the evaluators (78.13 and 61.54%, respectively); apathetic or severely depressed behavior was low (10.7 and 17.5%, P > 0.05). Significant differences in body condition score (BCS) were observed between mules and horses (P < 0.05); eighty percent of the mules and 54.4% of the horses exhibited a healthy body condition score (3 or more on a scale of 1 to 5). Less than 15% of the animals had eye problems, limb deformities, and gait abnormalities. Injuries to the head, withers, spine, ribs/flank, hindquarters, and hind legs were observed in a frequency between 12.5 and 30.43% of the animals, with a higher frequency in horses (P < 0.05). Weak correlations (R2 coefficient < 0.5), although statistically significant, were observed between low body conditions and the presence of skin and deeper tissue lesions, systemic health abnormalities, and limb problems (P < 0.05). The results indicate that owners care for their animals. However, the presence of skin and deep tissue lesions, especially in horses, suggests that they are subjected to high workloads. Therefore, it is essential to train owners in aspects related to the importance of providing their equids with adequate rest periods to recover from work and develop actions to strengthen human-equine interaction.

Mitral implantation of a (Melody) pulmonary valve. A report of the first pediatric case in Colombia / Implante de válvula pulmonar (Melody) en posición mitral. Reporte de primer caso pediátrico en Colombia

Abstract Congenital mitral valve disease is complex, entails a significant challenge from a clinical, hemodynamic, and surgical point of view, and has high rates of morbidity and mortality. Surgical valvuloplasty has a high failure and reoperation rate, especially in neonates and infants due to the presence of dysplastic valves and special anatomical characteristics. Mitral valve replacement presents limitations in this age group given the lack of available prostheses for rings smaller than 15 mm. Melody valve implantation in mitral position is a management alternative in these patients with important potential benefits in the short- and medium-term. We present the case of a 6-month-old girl with a congenital heart disease consisting in severe mitral valve stenosis, severe aortic coarctation and hypoplasia of the transverse aorta and the isthmus. She was taken to surgery at 4-months of age for a reconstruction of the aortic arch, mitral valvuloplasty, and creation of a calibrated 5 - mm interatrial communication. She developed early failure of the valvuloplasty with stenosis and severe residual mitral regurgitation, and progressed to severe acute heart failure. It was decided to implant a pulmonary Medtronic Melody 22 mm valve in the mitral position by a hybrid approach in collaboration with the pediatric hemodynamics group and cardiovascular surgery.

Resumen La enfermedad congénita de la válvula mitral es compleja, implica un reto importante desde el punto de vista clínico, hemodinámico y quirúrgico, y tiene altos índices de morbimortalidad. La valvuloplastia quirúrgica tiene una tasa alta de fracaso y reintervención, especialmente en los recién nacidos y lactantes, dada por la presencia de válvulas displásicas y sus características anatómicas especiales. El reemplazo de la válvula mitral tiene limitaciones en este grupo etario por la falta de prótesis disponibles para anillos con diámetros menores a 15 mm. La implantación de una válvula Melody en la posición mitral es una alternativa de manejo en estos pacientes con potenciales beneficios importantes al corto y mediano plazo. Presentamos el caso de una niña de seis meses de edad con cardiopatía congénita dada por estenosis mitral severa, coartación de aorta severa, e hipoplasia de la aorta transversa y el istmo. Fue llevada a cirugía a los cuatro meses de edad para una reconstrucción del arco aórtico, valvuloplastia mitral y la creación de una comunicación interauricular calibrada de 5 mm. Presentó falla temprana de la valvuloplastia con estenosis e insuficiencia mitral residual severa, y evolucionó a falla cardíaca severa. Se decidió realizar un implante de una válvula Medtronic Melody pulmonar de 22 mm en la posición mitral a través de un abordaje híbrido en colaboración con el grupo de hemodinamia pediátrica y cirugía cardiovascular.

The mitochondrial K-ATP channel opener diazoxide upregulates STIM1 and Orai1 via ROS and the MAPK pathway in adult rat cardiomyocytes.

BACKGROUND: Openers of mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate-dependent potassium (mKATP) channels like diazoxide increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in cardiac cells and reduce Ca2+ elevations produced by ischemia-reperfusion, protecting the heart from damage. In this study we tested the hypothesis that opening mKATP channels regulates expression of the major components of store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) STIM1 and Orai1. RESULTS: Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot experiments showed that diazoxide increased expression of STIM1 and Orai1 at the mRNA and protein levels, respectively, in adult rat cardiomyocytes. Immunofluorescence analyses revealed that diazoxide also disrupted the striated distribution pattern of STIM1. These effects were prevented by the ROS scavenger N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), the mKATP channel antagonist 5-hydroxydecanoate (5-HD), or the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide (CHX). Confocal microscopy revealed that diazoxide also led to nuclear translocation of the transcription factors c-Fos and NFκB, which was also blocked by NAC or 5-HD. Finally, the MAPK pathway inhibitor UO126 attenuated diazoxide-induced upregulation of STIM1 and Orai1 expression. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that opening mitochondrial potassium ATP channels with diazoxide upregulates the expression of STIM1 and Orai1 by de novo synthesis by a mechanism that involves NFkB, c-Fos, and ROS via MAPK/ERK signaling.

Et Tu, B12? Cobalamin Deficiency Masquerading As Pseudo-Thrombotic Microangiopathy.

Vitamin B12 deficiency is classically associated with megaloblastic anemia. Possible cobalamin deficiency is not investigated once hemolysis is seen. Around 2.5% of cases can present as pseudo-thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). A swift identification of this means the difference between an easy solution and a protracted one for the patient. A 74-year-old man with no past medical history presented with exertional dyspnea, fatigue, and increasing anorexia over two weeks. Physical examination including a neurological examination was normal. Laboratory tests revealed pancytopenia, unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia, elevated LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), low haptoglobin, and fragmented red blood cells (RBCs) on the peripheral smear, but normal FDP (fibrinogen degradation product) and fibrinogen. The absolute reticulocyte count was reduced as opposed to the expected elevation. Vitamin B12 levels were undetectable, and severe cobalamin deficiency from pernicious anemia was found to be the paramount etiology. Cobalamin deficiency causing pseudo-TMA baffles most physicians. Advanced pernicious anemia is thought to cause intramedullary hemolysis, resulting in peripheral pancytopenia. The fragile RBCs are easily sheared, producing schistocytosis without platelet microthrombi. In contrast to hemolytic anemias, reticulocyte count is low given the unavailability of B12 for erythropoiesis. Reticulocytopenia is a universal finding in cases of pseudo-TMA. Around 38.8% of cases with pseudo-TMA are misdiagnosed as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and treated with plasma product therapy. Keeping an eye out for reticulocytopenia in cases of hemolysis could mean a world of difference for the patient.

Alcohol consumption and suicide risk in medical internship: A Peruvian multicentric study.

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Suicide and harmful alcohol consumption are major health problems, especially in medical students. This study aimed to evaluate the association between risk for alcohol abuse and suicide risk in medical interns of Peruvian hospitals. DESIGN AND METHODS: We conducted a multicentre cross-sectional study in medical interns from 18 Peruvian hospitals. We measured suicide risk, risk for alcohol abuse, depression and self-esteem using the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale, CAGE, Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, respectively. We used χ2 and Student t-tests for descriptive analysis. To evaluate the association between risk for alcohol abuse and suicide risk we generated crude and adjusted Poisson regression models with robust variance and estimated prevalence ratios with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: We surveyed 433 medical interns. The prevalence of suicide risk and risk for alcohol abuse was 19.6% and 27.5%, respectively. We found significant differences in suicide risk according to age (P < 0.001), region of origin (P = 0.002), with whom the participant lived (P < 0.001), university of origin (P = 0.040), type of hospital (P = 0.042), family history of attempted suicide (P = 0.043), self-esteem level (P < 0.001) and alcohol consumption (P < 0.001). In the adjusted model, age (PRa: 1.11, 95% confidence interval 1.05-1.17) and risk for alcohol abuse (PRa: 7.60, 95% confidence interval 4.46-12, 96) were associated with suicide risk. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Two out of 10 medical interns had a positive screening for suicide risk. Age and especially risk for alcohol abuse were the associated variables.

Pharmacological Preconditioning Using Diazoxide Regulates Store-Operated Ca2 + Channels in Adult Rat Cardiomyocytes.

Voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels and store-operated Ca2+ channels (SOCs) are the major routes of Ca2+ entry into mammalian cells. Previously, we reported that pharmacological preconditioning (PPC) leads to a decrease in the amplitude of L-type calcium channel current in the heart. In this study, we examined PPC-associated changes in SOC function. We measured adult cardiomyocyte membrane currents using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique, and we evaluated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and intracellular Ca2+ levels in cardiomyocytes using fluorescent probes. Diazoxide (Dzx) and thapsigargin (Tg) were used to induce PPC and to deplete internal stores of Ca2+, respectively. Ca2+ store depletion generated inward currents with strong rectification, which were suppressed by the SOC blocker GSK-7975-A. These currents were completely abolished by PPC, an effect that could be countered with 5-hydroxydecanoate (5-HD; a selective mitochondrial ATP-sensitive K+ channel blocker), an intracellular mitochondrial energizing solution, or Ni2+ [a blocker of sodium-calcium exchanger (NCX)]. Buffering of ROS and intracellular Ca2+ also prevented PPC effects on SOC currents. Refilling of intracellular stores was largely suppressed by PPC, as determined by measuring intracellular Ca2+ with a fluorescent Ca2+ indicator. These results indicate that influx of Ca2+ through SOCs is inhibited by their ROS and Ca2+-dependent inactivation during PPC and that NCX is a likely source of PPC-inactivating Ca2+. We further showed that NCX associates with Orai1. Down-regulation of SOCs by PPC may play a role in cardioprotection following ischemia-reperfusion.

The ß4 subunit of Cav1.2 channels is required for an optimal interferon response in cardiac muscle cells.

The auxiliary ß4 subunit of the cardiac Cav1.2 channel plays a poorly understood role in gene transcription. Here, we characterized the regulatory effects of the ß4 subunit in H9c2 rat cardiac cells on the abundances of Ifnb mRNA [which encodes interferon-ß (IFN-ß)] and of the IFN-ß-related genes Ddx58, Ifitm3, Irf7, Stat2, Ifih1, and Mx1, as well as on the abundances of the antiviral proteins DDX58, IRF7, STAT2, and IFITM3. Knocking down the ß4 subunit in H9c2 cells reduced the expression of IFN-ß-stimulated genes. In response to inhibition of the kinase JAK1, the abundances of ß4 subunit mRNA and protein were decreased. ß4 subunit abundance was increased, and it translocated to the nucleus, in cells treated with IFN-ß, infected with dengue virus (DENV), or transfected with poly(I:C), a synthetic analog of double-stranded RNA. Cells that surrounded the virus-infected cells showed translocation of ß4 subunit proteins to nuclei in response to spreading infection. We showed that the ß4 subunit interacted with the transcriptional regulator IRF7 and that the activity of an Irf7 promoter-driven reporter was increased in cells overexpressing the ß4 subunit. Last, overexpressing ß4 in undifferentiated and differentiated H9c2 cells reduced DENV infection and decreased the abundance of the viral proteins NS1, NS3, and E-protein. DENV infection and poly(I:C) also increased the concentration of intracellular Ca2+ in these cells. These findings suggest that the ß4 subunit plays a role in promoting the expression of IFN-related genes, thereby reducing viral infection.

Protective Action of Diazoxide on Isoproterenol-Induced Hypertrophy Is Mediated by Reduction in MicroRNA-132 Expression.

INTRODUCTION AND METHODS: The effects of diazoxide on cardiac hypertrophy and miR-132 expression were characterized in adult rats and in cardiomyocytes. Diazoxide effects on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and on the cAMP-response element binding (CREB) transcription factor's abundance in cardiomyocytes were also analyzed. ROS measurements used a fluorescent dye. Western blot analysis and quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction were used to measure phosphorylated form of CREB (pCREB) abundance and miR-132 expression, respectively. RESULTS: Isoproterenol (ISO) induced cardiac hypertrophy, an effect that was mitigated by diazoxide. The rate of ROS production, CREB phosphorylation, and miR-132 expression increased after the addition of ISO. H2O2 increased pCREB abundance and miR-132 expression; upregulation of miR-132 was blocked by the specific inhibitor of CREB transcription, 666-15. Consistent with a role of ROS on miR-132 expression, diazoxide prevented the increase in ROS production, miR-132 expression, and pCREB abundance produced by ISO. Phosphorylation of CREB by ISO was prevented by U0126, an inhibitor of mitogen-activated protein kinase. CONCLUSIONS: Our data first demonstrate that diazoxide mitigates hypertrophy by preventing an increase in miR-132 expression. The mechanism likely involves less ROS production leading to less phosphorylation of CREB. Our data further show that ROS enhance miR-132 transcription, and that ISO effects are probably mediated by the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway.

Expanding the genetic architecture and phenotypic spectrum in the skeletal ciliopathies.

Defects in the biosynthesis and/or function of primary cilia cause a spectrum of disorders collectively referred to as ciliopathies. A subset of these disorders is distinguished by profound abnormalities of the skeleton that include a long narrow chest with markedly short ribs, extremely short limbs, and polydactyly. These include the perinatal lethal short-rib polydactyly syndromes (SRPS) and the less severe asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy (ATD), Ellis-van Creveld (EVC) syndrome, and cranioectodermal dysplasia (CED) phenotypes. To identify new genes and define the spectrum of mutations in the skeletal ciliopathies, we analyzed 152 unrelated families with SRPS, ATD, and EVC. Causal variants were discovered in 14 genes in 120 families, including one newly associated gene and two genes previously associated with other ciliopathies. These three genes encode components of three different ciliary complexes; FUZ, which encodes a planar cell polarity complex molecule; TRAF3IP1, which encodes an anterograde ciliary transport protein; and LBR, which encodes a nuclear membrane protein with sterol reductase activity. The results established the molecular basis of SRPS type IV, in which mutations were identified in four different ciliary genes. The data provide systematic insight regarding the genotypes associated with a large cohort of these genetically heterogeneous phenotypes and identified new ciliary components required for normal skeletal development.

MiR-132 Regulates Rem Expression in Cardiomyocytes During Long-Term ß-Adrenoceptor Agonism.

AIMS: To characterize the effects of long-term ß-adrenergic receptor stimulation on Rem protein and mRNA expression in rat heart and possible involvement of miR-132. METHODS: Adult rats were treated with isoproterenol (ISO, 150 µg.kg.h(-1)) for 2 d and Rem, miR-132, and α1c (the principal subunit of Cav1.2 channels) were measured at protein and mRNA levels with western blot and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) experiments, respectively. Ca(2+) currents and intracellular Ca(2+) signals were evaluated in isolated cardiomyocytes. RESULTS: Systemic administration of ISO led to decreases in Rem protein and mRNA levels (down to 49%). Furthermore, levels of the microRNAs (miRs) miR-132 and miR-214 were upregulated 5- and 9-fold, respectively. Transfection of miR-132, but not miR-214, into HEK293 cells reduced the expression of a luciferase reporter gene controlled by a conserved 3´-untranslated region (UTR) of Rem by half. Chronic ISO administration also led to a 25% decrease in the amplitude of peak L-type Ca(2+) currents, a 40% decrease in α1c subunit protein abundance at the membrane level, and a 60% decrease in expression of α1c channel subunit mRNA. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that Rem expression is down-regulated posttranscriptionally by miR-132 in response to long-term activation of ß-adrenergic signaling, but this down-regulation does not produce a larger Ca(2+) influx through Cav1.2 channels.

An embryonic heart cell line is susceptible to dengue virus infection.

Dengue virus (DENV) is the causative agent of dengue fever. In recent years, patients with more severe form of the disease with acute heart failure or progression to cardiogenic shock and death have been reported. However, the pathogenesis of myocardial lesions and susceptibility of cardiomyocytes to DENV infection have not been evaluated. Under this perspective, the susceptibility of the myoblast cell line H9c2, obtained from embryonic rat heart, to DENV infection was analyzed. Our findings indicate that H9c2 cells are susceptible to the infection with the four DENV serotypes. Moreover, virus translation/replication and viral production in this cell line is as efficient as in other susceptible cell lines, supporting the idea that DENV may target heart cells as evidenced by infection of H9c2 cells. This cell line may thus represent an excellent model for the study and characterization of cardiac physiopathology in DENV infection.

Physiological profiles of Zebu steers during transport and pre-slaughter / Perfiles fisiológicos de novillos Cebú durante el transporte y pre-sacrificio / Perfis fisiológicos de novilhos Zebu durante o transporte e pré-sacrifício

Background: pre-slaughter handling causes stress in cattle that may alter numerous physiological variables. Objective: to determine whether in-farm handling of steers, road transport by truck, or slaughterhouse lairage affect blood stress indicators. Methods: a total of 65 castrated Zebu steers were randomly selected and transported during 4 h in the same truck, under similar handling conditions. Blood samples were taken by jugular or coccygeal venipuncture at the farm, at the slaughterhouse, and during exsanguination to measure plasma cortisol, glucose, lactate, creatine kinase (CK), ß-hydroxybutyrate (ßHB), creatinine, total protein, urea, packed cell volume (PCV) values, white blood cells (WBC) and neutrophil:lymphocytes ratio (N/L). Results: pre-slaughter handling did not have a negative influence on protein metabolism nor did it cause dehydration. ß-hydroxybutyrate and lactate values did not change (p>0.05). Transportation increased cortisol, glucose, creatine kinase concentrations and N/L ratio (p<0.05). Conclusion: pre-slaughter was a stress-generating event that moderately affected animal welfare and increased physiological variables within a range considered normal for steers.

Antecedentes: el manejo presacrificio causa estrés en el ganado que puede alterar variables fisiológicas. Objetivo: determinar si el manejo en la granja, el transporte terrestre o la estadía en la planta de bovinos cebú sacrificados en una planta localizada en una zona productiva tienen efecto sobre los indicadores sanguíneos de estrés. Métodos: se seleccionaron aleatoriamente 65 novillos Cebú, los cuales fueron transportados durante 4 h, bajo las mismas condiciones de manejo. El ganado fue muestreado por venopunción de la vena yugular o coccígea en la granja, en la planta de sacrificio y durante el desangrado para medir los niveles de cortisol, glucosa, lactato, creatinquinasa (CK), betahidroxibutirato (ßHB), creatinina, proteína total, urea, volumen celular acumulado (PCV), conteo de células blancas (WBC) y la relación neutrófilos/linfocitos (N/L). Resultados: el manejo presacrificio no influyó negativamente sobre el metabolismo proteico, ni causó deshidratación. El ß-hidroxibutirato y el lactato no presentaron cambios (p>0,05). El transporte incrementó las concentraciones de cortisol, glucosa, creatinquinasa y la relación N/L (p<0,05). Conclusiones: el presacrificio afectó moderadamente el bienestar animal e incrementó algunas variables fisiológicas, las cuales se encontraron dentro de los rangos considerados como normales para la especie bovina.

Antecedentes: o manejo pré-abate causa estresse no gado, o que pode alterar numerosas variáveis fisiológicas. Objetivo: determinar se o manejo na fazenda, o transporte terrestre ou a permanência no frigorífico de bovinos zebuínos abatidos em um abatedouro instalado numa região produtiva, tem efeito nos indicadores sanguíneos do estresse. Métodos: foram selecionados aleatoriamente 65 novilhos zebu, os quais foram transportados durante 4 h, sob as mesmas condições de manejo. O gado foi monitorado por venopunção na fazenda, no frigorífico e durante a sangria para medir os níveis de cortisol, glucosa, lactato, creatinoquinase (CK), beta hidroxibutirato (ßHB), creatinina, proteína total, uréia, volume celular acumulado (PCV), contagem de células brancas (WBC) e a relação neutrófilos/linfócitos (N/L). Resultados: o manejo pré-abate não influenciou negativamente o metabolismo proteico, nem provocou desidratação. O ß-hidroxibutirato e o lactato não apresentaram mudanças (p>0,05). O transporte elevou as concentrações de cortisol, glicose, creatina-quinase e a relação N/L (p<0,05). Conclusões: o pré-abate afetou moderadamente o bem-estar animal e incrementou algumas variáveis fisiológicas avaliadas, as quais encontraram-se dentro de intervalos considerados como normais para a espécie bovina.

Parvalbumin is overexpressed in the late phase of pharmacological preconditioning in skeletal muscle.

Pharmacological preconditioning (PPC) with mitochondrial ATP-sensitive K(+) channel openers such as diazoxide, provides protection against ischemia in cardiac muscle, skeletal muscle, and other tissues. Effects on Ca(2+) homeostasis during the late phase of PPC have been described in cardiomyocytes, but no information is available regarding intracellular Ca(2+) changes in skeletal muscle fibers during late PPC. Intracellular Ca(2+) signals were measured in single fibers of adult mouse skeletal muscle, with fluorescent probes, 48 h after the administration of diazoxide. Parvalbumin levels in the myofibers were quantitated by Western blot. Diazoxide induction of late PPC was confirmed by partial protection of muscles from peroxide-induced damage. Late PPC was associated with a significant decrease in the duration of Ca(2+) signals during single twitches and tetanus with no changes in peak values. This effect was prevented by the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger tiron. Late PPC was accompanied by a 30% increase in parvalbumin levels, and this effect was also blocked by tiron. Our data show, for the first time, a role of parvalbumin in late PPC in skeletal muscle.

Evaluation of bruises as an animal welfare indicator during pre-slaughter of beef cattle / Evaluación de contusiones como un indicador de bienestar animal durante el pre-sacrificio de bovinos / Avaliação de lesões como um indicador de bem-estar dos animais durante o pré-abate

Objective: To evaluate and characterize the bruises occurring during the pre-slaughter of beef cattle in a commercial slaughterhouse, and to identify the risk factors involved. Methods: a cross sectional- study was conducted on 2,288 carcasses evaluating transport conditions, animal characteristics, severity, extent, and location of the bruises to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors. Results: The bruising prevalence was 84.3%. Sex, weight, stocking density and lairage time were associated with the presence of bruising (p<0.005). Transport time was not considered a risk factor for the presence and severity of bruises (p>0.005). Conclusions: results suggest that animal welfare conditions of the evaluated cattle are deficient. Several factors should be improved, such as: training the staff, reducing the lairage time, preventive maintenance for equipment, specialized transportation, sanitary design strategies, and divulgation of sanitary laws, among others.

Objetivo: evaluar, identificar factores de riesgo y caracterizar las contusiones ocurridas durante el pre-sacrificio de Ganado de carne en una planta de sacrificio comercial. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte en 2,288 canales evaluando las condiciones de transporte, la estadía en la planta de sacrificio, las características de los animales, la severidad, extensión y localización de las contusiones. Resultados: la prevalencia de contusiones fue del 84.3%. El sexo, el peso de los bovinos, la densidad de carga y el tiempo de permanencia en la planta, estuvieron asociados con la presencia de contusiones (p<0.005). El tiempo de transporte no fue considerado como un factor de riesgo de la presencia y severidad de las lesiones (p>0.005). Conclusiones: los resultados sugieren que las condiciones de bienestar animal de los bovinos evaluados son deficientes. Se requiere la capacitación y el entrenamiento del personal, la disminución de los tiempos de permanencia en la planta de sacrificio, el mantenimiento preventivo de equipos, transporte especializado, estrategias de diseño sanitario y la divulgación de la legislación sanitaria.

Objetivo: avaliar, identificar fatores de risco e caracterizar as lesões presentes em 2288 carcaças num abatedouro comercial. Métodos: se realizou um estudo descritivo de corte transversal, onde foram avaliadas as condições de transporte, estadia no local, características dos animais, estado de gravidez e localização e extensão das lesões na carcaça. Resultados: a prevalência das lesões foi de 84.3%. O sexo, peso, densidade de carga e o tempo de permanência no abatedouro foram associados à presença de hematomas (p<0.005). O tempo de transporte não foi considerado um fator de risco para a presença e severidade das lesões na carcaça (p<0.005). Conclusões: os resultados sugerem que as condições de bem- estar animal do gado testado foram deficientes. É necessária a formação e o treinamento do pessoal que trabalha nos abatedouros; a redução do tempo dos animais no abatedouro; a manutenção preventiva de equipamentos; transporte especializado em gado de corte; desenho de estratégias sanitárias e a divulgação da legislação de saúde.

Anticuerpos contra Leptospira sp. en primates neotropicales y trabajadores de un zoológico colombiano / Leptospiral antibodies in a Colombian zoo's Neotropical primates and workers

Objetivo Detectar anticuerpos contra Leptospira sp. en primates neotropicales y funcionarios de un zoológico colombiano e identificar factores de riesgo de la enfermedad. Métodos Se realizó un estudio transversal analítico en 65 primates y 20 funcionarios del Zoológico. Las muestras fueron procesadas mediante la técnica de Microaglutinación macroscópica (MAT) usando un cepario de referencia conformado por 21 serovares de Leptospira sp. Se aplicó un instrumento estructurado al personal evaluado para identificar factores de riesgo. Resultados La seroprevalencia de la infección por Leptospira sp. fue del 25 % (5/20) en el personal y 23,07 % (15/65) en los monos neotropicales. Los serovares más frecuentes entre los funcionarios fueron bataviae, gryppotyphosa y hurstbridge. En los monos neotropicales predominaron los serovares icterohaemorrhagiae, pomona y ranarum. Las especies mono araña negro (Ateles fusciceps), mono cariblanco (Cebus albifrons) y tití gris (Saguinus leucopus), presentaron mayor reactividad. La mayor proporción del personal usaba dotación de protección. Conclusiones Se evidenció el contacto de los primates neotropicales y del personal con diferentes serovares de Leptospira. El uso de la dotación de protección y el tiempo de experiencia de los funcionarios del zoológico se consideraron como factores protectores de la enfermedad. Se sugiere que existe un riesgo de transmisión de leptospirosis, en los animales del zoológico y el personal, siendo por lo tanto importante fortalecer la vigilancia epidemiológica activa e implementar programas de promoción y prevención.

Objective Detecting antibodies against Leptospira spp. in Neotropical primates and workers in a Colombian Zoo and identifying the risk factors associated with the disease. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed regarding 65 Neotropical primates and 20 zookeepers. The samples were processed by microagglutination test (MAT) using a reference strain collection consisting of 21 Leptospira serovars. The people being evaluated were given a structured survey to identify risk factors. Results There was 25 % (5/20) Leptospira spp. infection seroprevalence in the staff and 23.07 % (15/65) in Neotropical monkeys. The most frequently occurring serovars in workers were bataviae, gryppotyphosa and ranarum; icterohaemorrhagiae, pomona and ranarum were the predominant serovars in non-human primates. The black spider monkey (Ateles fusciceps), white-fronted capuchin (Cebus albifrons) and white-footed tamarin (Saguinus leucopus) showed the highest reactivity. Most of the personnel were using protective clothing. Conclusions The contact between primates and zookeepers involving different Leptospira sp. serovars was evident. Zoo personnel using protective clothing and their length of experience were considered to be protective factors for the disease. There may be a risk of Leptospira transmission between zoo animals and staff, and it is therefore important to strengthen active surveillance and implement promotion and prevention programs.

Evaluación de prácticas de bienestar animal durante el transporte de bovinos para sacrificio / Evaluating animal welfare practice when transporting cattle to slaughter

Objetivo Evaluar las prácticas de bienestar animal durante el transporte terrestre de bovinos para el sacrificio. Métodos Se realizó un estudio transversal analítico en 194 transportadores de bovinosde dos zonas comerciales del occidente colombiano. Se analizaron variables de mográficas, actitudes de los conductores frente a los animales, y las condiciones de los vehículos, de acuerdo con los lineamientos de la legislación sanitaria. Resultados El transporte de bovinos es realizado por personas con edades comprendidas entre los 31 y 60 años (69 %), con escasa capacitación en manejo animal (4,1 %). Los conductores no vigilan las condiciones físicas de los animales durante el viaje, y los manejan con métodos como la picana eléctrica (46,8 %), torciendo la cola u otros métodos que generan dolor (24,2 %), por medio de palos (16,1 %) y lazos (12,9 %), los cuales no garantizan el bienestar animal. El transporte no es especializado (79,4 %) y las condiciones de los vehículos cumplen parcialmente con los requerimientos sanitarios. Conclusiones Se requiere el mejoramiento de la infraestructura de transporte de los bovinos en el área de estudio, la capacitación de los conductores, el fomento de prácticas de bienestar animal en todos los usuarios de la cadena cárnica y el desarrollo de investigación en el área.(AU)

Objective Evaluating animal welfare practices during land transport of cattle to slaughter. Methods A cross-sectional analytical study was carried out regarding 194 livestock transporters from two cattle-producing areas in western Colombia. Demographic variables, drivers' attitudes towards the animals and trucking conditions were analyzed according to sanitary legislation guidelines. Results The livestock are transported by people aged 31 to 60 (69 %) having little animal management training (4.1 %). The drivers do not supervise the cattle's physical conditions when they are being transported and handled by methods such as electric prodding (46.8 %), twisting their tails or other pain-inducing methods (24.2 %), using sticks (16.1 %) and ropes (12.9 %) which do not guarantee appropriate animal welfare. Transportation is not specialised (79.4 %) and the conditions of the vehicles only partially meet sanitary requirements. Conclusions Cattle transport infrastructure must be improved in the area being studied, as must driver training; animal welfare practice must be promoted in all users of the meat chain and research developed in this particular area.(AU)