Ascending renal infection following experimental candiduria by Candida tropicalis in immunocompromised mice.

The present study evaluated renal infection resulting from the implantation of C. tropicalis in the bladder of immunosuppressed mice. Yeasts were implanted in two manners: planktonic and via preformed biofilm on a small catheter fragment (SCF). Renal histopathology and cultures was performed 72 and 144 h after cystotomy was carried out in mice from three groups: group I contained non-contaminated mice implanted with a sterile SCF; group II mice received a sterile SCF plus a yeast suspension containing 1 × 107 yeasts/mL in a planktonic form; group III mice were implanted with a SCF containing preformed C. tropicalis biofilm. Viable yeasts were found in the kidneys of mice from both groups II and III. However, after 72 h the planktonic cells (group II) invaded more quickly than the sessile cells (group III). Over a longer period (144 h), group III exhibited a more invasive infection (50% of the animals presented renal infection and the renal fungal load was 3.2 log10 CFU/g tissue) than in group II, where yeasts were not found. C. tropicalis introduced into the bladder in two ways (in planktonic or biofilm form) were able to reach the kidney and establish a renal fungal infection, causing interstitial disorders. The data of the present study therefore support the hypothesis of an ascending pathway for renal infections by C. tropicalis. Furthermore, the biofilm resulted in a greater and progressive risk of renal infection, attributed to the slow detachment of the yeasts.

VEGF Expression, Cellular Infiltration, and Intratumoral Collagen Levels after Electroporation-Based Treatment of Dogs with Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Canine cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common type of skin cancer in tropical countries and is generally associated with exposure to solar ultraviolet light. It has a low metastatic rate, and local treatments, such as electrochemotherapy (ECT), promote long-term control or even complete remission. This study aimed to evaluate pre- and post-ECT treatment expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and CD31, cellular infiltration, and intratumoral collagen levels in dogs with cutaneous SCC. A prospective nonrandomized clinical study was performed using dogs with spontaneous SCC treated with ECT. Eighteen lesions from 11 dogs were included in the study. The expression levels of VEGF and CD31; cellular infiltration; and intratumoral collagen levels, as determined by Masson's trichrome staining, were not significantly different from pre-treatment measurements on day 21 (p > 0.05). However, among cellular infiltration, the mixed subtype was correlated with better overall survival time when compared to lymphoplasmacytic and neutrophilic infiltration (p < 0.05). In conclusion, ECT had no effect on VEGF expression, cellular infiltration, or intratumoral collagen levels in dogs with cutaneous SCC at the time of evaluation, suggesting that early and late post-ECT-treatment phases should be considered.

Effects of dexmedetomidine alone or in combination with opioids on intraocular pressure in healthy Beagle dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of dexmedetomidine alone or in combination with different opioids on intraocular pressure (IOP) in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Experimental, prospective, crossover, randomized, blinded study. ANIMALS: A total of six Beagle dogs (two males and four females) aged 2 years and weighing 15.9 ± 2.9 kg (mean ± standard deviation). METHODS: Dogs were distributed randomly into seven treatments (n = 6 per treatment) and were administered dexmedetomidine alone (10 µg kg-1; Dex) or in combination with butorphanol (0.15 mg kg-1; DexBut), meperidine (5 mg kg-1; DexMep), methadone (0.5 mg kg-1; DexMet), morphine (0.5 mg kg-1; DexMor), nalbuphine (0.5 mg kg-1; DexNal) or tramadol (5 mg kg-1; DexTra). All drugs were administered intramuscularly. IOP was measured before drug injection (time 0, baseline) and every 15 minutes thereafter for 120 minutes (T15-T120). RESULTS: There were significant reductions in IOP compared with baseline in treatments Dex and DexMep at times T30-T120, and in treatment DexMet at T15-T90. IOP decreased compared with baseline in treatments DexBut, DexNal and DexTra at all evaluation times. No changes in IOP were seen in treatment DexMor. The mean IOP values in treatment DexMet at T105-T120 were higher than those for other treatments. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Dexmedetomidine alone or in combination with butorphanol, meperidine, methadone, nalbuphine or tramadol resulted in decreased IOP for 120 minutes in dogs. The magnitude of the reduction was small and lacked clinical significance.

Comparative study on epidural administration of dexmedetomidine, dexmedetomidine-lidocaine or lidocaine in conscious rabbits.

The aim of this study was to compare the cardiorespiratory, arterial blood gas and antinociceptive effects of dexmedetomidine (D), dexmedetomidine-lidocaine (DL) or lidocaine (L) administered epidurally on conscious rabbits. Eight six-month-old male New Zealand rabbits were randomly distributed into three treatments: D (2.5 µg/kg); DL (2.5 µg/kg; 2 mg/kg); and L (2 mg/kg). The drugs were injected epidurally via a catheter. Cardiorespiratory, arterial blood gas and antinociceptive variables were recorded before administration, 5 and 10 min after drug administration, then every 10 min until the animals presented a positive response to nociceptive stimulation of perineal dermatomes. Two animals had permanent paralysis after DL treatment due to hemorrhage and congestion with neuron necrosis in spinal cord segments. There was a reduction in mean arterial pressure in treatment L at 5 and 10 min, compared with the baseline, and in treatment DL at 10-30 min. Increases in pH were observed in treatment D at 5 and 10 min, and in DL at all the times evaluated, compared with the baseline. No alterations were observed in other blood gas or electrolyte variables. Antinociceptive effects were evaluated in the perineal, sacral and lumbar regions, and were restricted to the perineal region following D and L treatment. The antinociceptive effects following DL were greater than D and L alone in all of the regions. L and D promotes short-term antinociceptive effects for up to 15 min and, when used in combination with D, increased the duration and extent of sensory block by up to 45 min.

A comparative study of the cardiopulmonary and sedative effects of a single intramuscular dose of ketamine anesthetic combinations in rabbits.

The aim of this prospective, randomized, blinded crossover study was compare the cardiopulmonary and sedative effects of ketamine in combination with acepromazine, diazepam, dexmedetomidine, midazolam or xylazine, injected intramuscularly in rabbits, using eight one-year-old male New Zealand rabbits (4.1 ± 0.40 kg). All treatments included ketamine (K; 30 mg/kg) in combination with one of the following: acepromazine 0.5 mg/kg (treatment KA); diazepam 1 mg/kg (KD); dexmedetomidine 0.025 mg/kg (KDex); midazolam 1 mg/kg (KM); or xylazine 3 mg/kg (KX) mixed in the same syringe and injected intramuscularly. Cardiopulmonary variables, blood gases and sedative scores were measured before injection (T0 or baseline) and every 10 min thereafter, over a 60-min period. There were reductions in heart rate, compared with the baseline, at all evaluation times in treatment KX. Treatments KDex, KM and KX presented reductions in respiratory rate at all evaluation times, in comparison with the baseline. There were reductions in mean arterial pressure in KA and KX at times T10-T60 and in PaO2 in KDex, KM and KX at T10-T50. The sedation scores were similar in KA, KDex, KM and KX at T10-T20. Ketamine in combination with acepromazine, dexmedetomidine, midazolam or xylazine promoted similar sedative effects for twenty minutes, but the α2-agonists can promote hypoxemia.

Clinical effects of epidurally administered dexmedetomidine with or without lidocaine in sheep.

BACKGROUND: The aims of this study were evaluate cardiopulmonary, sedative and antinociceptive effects of dexmedetomidine-lidocaine combination via lumbosacral epidural injection in sheep. METHODS: Six Santa Inês breed sheep, 16±6 months old and weighing 42.2 ± 5.7 kg were used. Sheep were subjected to epidural anaesthesia with three treatments: L, lidocaine (1.2 mg/kg), D, dexmedetomidine (2.5 µg/kg) or DL, dexmedetomidine plus lidocaine (2.5 µg/kg + 1.2 mg/kg). Drugs were injected via pre-placed lumbosacral epidural catheters. Cardiopulmonary, arterial blood gases, electrolytes, degree of sedation and antinociceptive aspects were measured before drug administration (T0) and then at 15, 30, 60 and 120 min after drug injection (T15-T120) in all treatments and at T0 to T240 in DL. RESULTS: There were significantly increases in PaCO2 at times T60 and T120 in D, and at T30-T120 in DL, compared to baseline. The antinociceptive effects were observed up to 240 min in DL and 60 min in L, and were more intense in DL. Treatment D provided analgesia only in the perineal region, and only at T15. CONCLUSION: The combination of DEX with lidocaine produced similar cardiopulmonary changes compared with either drug alone, but with greater and more prolonged antinociceptive effects.

Effects of pneumoperitoneum and trendelenburg position on intraocular pressure (IOP) in isofluorane anesthetised cats / Efeitos do pneumoperitônio e da posição de trendelenburg sobre a pressão intraocular em gatos anestesiados com isoflurano

The aim of this study was to determine whether a pneumoperitoneum of 10 mmHg combined or not with the Trendelenburg position could lead to significant changes in intraocular pressure (IOP), ocular pressure perfusion (OPP), and cardiorespiratory variables; as well as determine whether a correlation exists between IOP and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), and/or partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood (PaCO2) in cats. Animals were allocated in two groups (n=7/group): GC (without inclination) and GTREN (Trendelenburg position). The variables were recorded before (baseline) and during 30 minutes (T5-T30) after insufflation. In GTREN, a reduction in heart rate was observed at T5 and in respiratory rate at T5 and T15. There was an increase in IOP at T5-T30 in comparison to baseline. There was a reduction in potential of hydrogen in arterial blood in both groups at all times in comparison to baseline. Partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood was increased at T15-T30 in GC and at T5-T30 in GTREN. In conclusion, the pneumoperitoneum of 10mmHg CO2 did not significantly affect IOP or OPP in cats anaesthetised with isofluorane and kept under spontaneous ventilation. However, induced pneumoperitoneum combined with Trendelenburg position resulted in an increase in IOP in cats subjected to the same anaesthetic conditions, but did not affect OPP.

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar se o pneumoperitônio de 10 mmHg associado, ou não, à posição de Trendelenburg poderia levar a alterações significativas na Pressão Intraocular (PIO), Pressão de Perfusão Ocular (PPO) e variáveis cardiorrespiratórias, bem como determinar se havia correlação entre a PIO e a Pressão Arterial Média (PAM) e/ou Pressão Parcial de Dióxido de Carbono no Sangue Arterial (PaCO2) em gatos. Os animais foram alocados em dois grupos (n = 7/grupo): GC (sem inclinação) e GTREN (posição de Trendelenburg). As variáveis foram registradas antes (linha de base) e durante 30 minutos (T5-T30) após a insuflação. No GTREN, foi observada redução na frequência cardíaca em T5 e, na frequência respiratória, em T5 e T15. Houve aumento da PIO no T5-T30 comparativamente ao valor basal. Houve redução no Potencial de Hidrogênio no sangue arterial em ambos os grupos em todos os momentos comparativamente à linha de base. A Pressão Parcial de Dióxido de Carbono no sangue arterial aumentou em T15-T30 no GC e em T5-T30 no GTREN. Concluiu-se que o pneumoperitônio de 10mmHg CO2 não afetou significativamente a PIO ou a PPO em gatos anestesiados com isofluorano e mantidos sob ventilação espontânea. No entanto, o pneumoperitônio induzido combinado à posição de Trendelenburg resultou em aumento da PIO em gatos submetidos às mesmas condições anestésicas, mas não afetou a PPO.

Electrochemotherapy induces tumor regression and decreases the proliferative index in canine cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Canine cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the most common skin cancer in dogs, and, due to its low metastatic rate, local treatments, such as electrochemotherapy (ECT), promote disease control or even complete remission (CR). This study aimed to evaluate the gene and protein expression of Bcl-2 and Bcl-2 associated X protein (BAX), the proliferative index and clinical parameters in dogs with cSCC subjected to ECT. A prospective nonrandomized clinical study was performed using dogs with naturally occurring cSCC that was treated with ECT. Eighteen lesions from 11 dogs were selected. The tumor size at day 0 (D0) had no impact on survival or prognosis (P > 0.05). Tumor samples had a lower proliferative index after ECT (D21) than before ECT (P = 0.031). The survival of subjects with Ki67 values lower and higher than the Ki67 median value were not significantly different (P > 0.05). Regarding apoptotic markers, there were no significant differences in the gene and protein expression levels of BAX or Bcl-2 at D0 and D21 (P > 0.05) or in the overall survival of subjects with different levels of apoptotic markers. In conclusion, there was no change in BAX or Bcl-2 gene and protein expression in response to ECT at the time points evaluated, but ECT was able to reduce tumor volume and cellular proliferation in cSCC.

Biocompatibility of polyamide 12 intramedullary rod after humeral consolidation in white Plymouth Rock birds / Biocompatibilidade de haste intramedular bloqueada de poliamida 12 após consolidação óssea umeral em aves Plymouth Rock branca

Technological and tissue engineering have enabled available, biologically inert, and low cost materials to be considered as viable alternatives in the surgical treatment of long bone fractures in birds. The aim of this study was to microscopically analyse osteotomized humerus of birds following the insertion of solid laser-sintered polyamide 12 rods in order to detect foreign body reaction and, thus, verify the bioinert property of the material in the bone fracture environment. Polyamide 12 intramedullary rods were inserted into the osteotomized humerus of 10 birds (white Plymouth Rock) and blocked using 2mm diameter cortical screws of varying lengths. The birds were operated at 60 days of age and monitored post-operatively for three months. Animals were euthanized at 150 days old and samples of the operated humerus collected for immunohistochemistry, light and scanning electron microscopy analysis. Results show bone consolidation without rejection of the implant and absence of inflammatory cells. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) was expressed in the endothelial cells of the blood vessels at the site of the newly formed bone surrounding the implant, indicative of local angiogenesis. There was no bone growth on the surface of the rod; however, the implant did not interfere with the circumjacent bone repair. Thus, the findings of this study corroborate with the literature in characterizing polyamide as a bioinert material and, under the studied conditions, it can be concluded that polyamide 12 intramedullary rod is biocompatible and provides adequate bone consolidation in humeral fractures with no signs of rejection.(AU)

Com o desenvolvimento tecnológico e crescimento da engenharia de tecidos, o uso de materiais disponíveis, bioinertes e debaixo custo pode ser alternativa viável para o tratamento cirúrgico de fraturas em ossos longos nas aves. O objetivo do estudo foi realizar avaliação microscópica óssea após a implantação de haste maciça de poliamida, implantada em úmeros osteotomizados de galinhas para detectar reação do tipo corpo estranho, verificando a propriedade "bioinerte" do material no ambiente de fratura óssea. Foram utilizados 10 galos (Plymouth rock branca) e implantou-se a haste perfazendo o bloqueio das mesmas com parafusos corticais de 2 mm de diâmetro com comprimentos de acordo com a necessidade. As aves foram operadas aos 60 dias de vida e o acompanhamento pós-operatório ocorreu por três meses. Após a eutanásia, foram realizadas coletas do úmero operado (local de consolidação óssea) paraexame histopatológico, imuno-histoquímico e de microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Os resultados demonstraram consolidação óssea, sem presença de rejeição do material, com ausência de células inflamatórias. A neoformação óssea ao redor do implante expressou VEGF (fator de crescimento endotelial vascular) nas células endoteliais dos vasos sanguíneos caracterizando angiogênese no local. Na região de interface de tecido ósseo com a poliamida não foram observadas micro fraturas. Não houve crescimento ósseo na superfície da haste, porém a mesma não atrapalhou o reparo ósseo circunjacente. Assim, esse estudo corrobora com a literatura caracterizando a poliamida como um material bioinerte, e nas condições estudadas pode-se concluir que o uso da haste intramedular de poliamida 12 proporcionou consolidação óssea nesse modelo biológico nesse tipo de fratura, não havendo indícios de induzir rejeição.(AU)

Effects of dexmedetomidine combined with commonly administered opioids on clinical variables in dogs.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate cardiopulmonary, sedative, and antinociceptive effects of dexmedetomidine combined with commonly administered opioids in dogs. ANIMALS 8 healthy Beagles. PROCEDURES Dogs were sedated by IM administration of each of 7 treatments. Treatments comprised dexmedetomidine (0.01 mg/kg; Dex) and the same dose of dexmedetomidine plus butorphanol (0.15 mg/kg; Dex-But), meperidine (5 mg/kg; Dex-Mep), methadone (0.5 mg/kg; Dex-Meth), morphine (0.5 mg/kg; Dex-Mor), nalbuphine (0.5 mg/kg; Dex-Nal), or tramadol (5 mg/kg; Dex-Tram). Cardiorespiratory and arterial blood gas variables and sedative and antinociceptive scores were measured before drug injection (time 0; baseline) and at 15-minute intervals for 120 minutes. RESULTS Heart rate was reduced at all time points after injection of Dex-But, Dex-Mep, Dex-Meth, and Dex-Mor treatments. There was a significant reduction of mean arterial blood pressure for Dex-But, Dex-Mep, and Dex-Mor treatments at all time points, compared with baseline. There was a significant decrease in respiratory rate, compared with the baseline value, for Dex, Dex-But, Dex-Meth, and Dex-Tram treatments from 15 to 120 minutes. A significant decrease in arterial blood pH was detected from baseline to 120 minutes for all treatments, with differences among Dex, Dex-Mep, and Dex-Mor. Reduction in Pao2 was greater for the Dex-Mep treatment than for the other treatments. The highest sedation scores were detected for Dex-Mep and Dex-Meth treatments. Antinociceptive effects were superior for Dex-But, Dex-Meth, Dex-Mor, and Dex-Nal treatments. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Drug combinations caused similar cardiorespiratory changes, with greater sedative effects for Dex-Mep and Dex-Meth and superior antinociceptive effects for Dex-But, Dex-Meth, Dex-Mor, and Dex-Nal.

The Effect of Acepromazine Alone or in Combination with Methadone, Morphine, or Tramadol on Sedation and Selected Cardiopulmonary Variables in Sheep.

The sedative and selected cardiopulmonary effects of acepromazine alone or in combination with methadone, morphine, or tramadol were compared in sheep. Six ewes were randomly assigned to treatments: A (0.05 mg/kg acepromazine), AM (A plus 0.5 mg/kg methadone), AMO (A plus 0.5 mg/kg morphine), and AT (A plus 5 mg/kg tramadol). Parameters were assessed before sedative drug administration (baseline) and every 15 minutes thereafter, for two hours. Treatments A and AM were associated with increases in sedation score for 60 minutes and treatments AMO and AT for 30 minutes; however, there were no significant differences between treatments. There was a decrease in mean arterial pressure compared to baseline values in treatment A at 15, 45, 60, and 90 minutes, in treatment AM at 15 minutes, and in treatment AT from 45 to 120 minutes. Arterial blood carbon dioxide pressure increased at all time points in all treatments. Arterial oxygen pressure decreased in treatment AMO at 15, 30, and 120 minutes and in treatment AT at 15-45, 105, and 120 minutes, compared to baseline. Acepromazine alone causes a level of sedation similar to that observed when it is coadministered with opioids methadone, morphine, and tramadol. These combinations did not cause clinical cardiopulmonary changes.

Mechanical flexural ex vivo study of osteotomized swine femurs stabilized with two types of polyamide 12 rods / Estudo mecânico de flexão, ex-vivo, de fêmures suínos osteotomizados, estabilizados com dois tipos de haste de poliamida 12

ABSTRACT: Long bone fractures are commonly in surgery routine and several bone imobilization techniques are currently available. Technological progress has enabled to use low cost materials in surgical procedures. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of polyamide 12 rods, solid and hollow in swine femurs, comparing them through flexion strength. This study had as second aim to fix the locking errors, commom place in interlocking nails, once polyamide 12 allows perforation in any direction by orthopaedic screw. Six groups were used: G1 - eight whole swine femurs; G2 - eight whole swine femurs with drilled medullary canal; G3 - two solid polyamide 12 rods; G4 - two hollow polyamide 12 rods; G5 - eight osteotomized drilled swine femurs with a solid polyamide 12 rod implanted in the medullary canal and locked by four 316L stainless steel screws; and G6 - similar to G5 but using hollow rods instead of solid ones. No significant differences were observed for the modulus of rupture between solid and hollow rods, demonstrating that both rods had similar performances. These results led to the speculation that the addition of other polymers to the hollow rods could increase their strength and thus the bone-implant system. Furthermore, the comparison between G1, G5 and G6 could be analyzed using the finite element method in future. New polymeric materials may be developed based on the data from this study, strengthening the bone-implant system and making possible screws to be placed in any direction, nullifying the detrimental forces on the fracture site.

RESUMO: Fraturas em ossos longos são comumente encontradas na rotina cirúrgica e várias técnicas de imobilização óssea estão disponíveis. Com o avanço tecnológico, tornou-se viável utilizar materiais de baixo custo nos procedimentos, portanto esse estudo objetivou avaliar a aplicabilidade de hastes de poliamida 12, sólidas e vazadas, implantadas em fêmures suínos, comparando-as segundo as forças de flexão e aos erros de bloqueio, corriqueiros nesse implante, uma vez que a poliamida 12 permite sua perfuração em qualquer direção por meio de parafusos ortopédicos. Seis grupos foram usados: G1 - oito fêmures suínos íntegros; G2 - oito fêmures suínos, fresados intramedularmente; G3 - duas hastes maciças de poliamida 12; G4 - duas hastes vazadas de poliamida 12; G5 - oito fêmures suínos osteotomizados e fresados, com haste de poliamida 12 maciça implantada no canal medular e bloqueada com quatro parafusos de aço inoxidável 316L e G6 - diferente de G5 apenas por utilizar hastes vazadas. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas no módulo de ruptura entre hastes sólidas e vazadas, demonstrando que ambas apresentaram o mesmo desempenho. Estes resultados levaram à especulação de que adicionar outros polímeros às hastes vazadas aumentaria sua força e, portanto, do sistema osso-implante. Além disso, a comparação entre G1, G5 e G6 poderia no futuro ser analisada utilizando o método dos elementos finitos. Novos polímeros podem ser desenvolvidos baseando-se nos dados deste estudo, reforçando o sistema osso-implante e também possibilitando o uso de perfurações para o bloqueio no transoperatório em qualquer direção, anulando as forças deletérias atuantes no sítio de fratura.

Intraocular pressure and Schirmer tear test values in maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) / Pressão intraocular e teste lacrimal de Schirmer em lobos-guará (Chrysocyon brachyurus)

The purpose of this study was to establish baseline data on lacrimal quantity (STT-1) and intraocular pressure (IOP) in captive maned wolves. Ten healthy adult maned wolves were contained with a snare pole and muzzle and kept in decubitus of the left side. STT-1 measurement was performed on the lateral third of the lower conjunctival sac for one minute. The cornea was desensitized and intraocular pressure was measured with an tonopen. Average STT-1 in both eyes was 11±5mm.min-1, with no statistical difference between the left and right eye (p=0.960). Average IOP in both eyes was 20±6mmHg, with no statistical difference between the left and right eye (p=0.836). Average STT-1 was lower than, and IOP was the same as normal levels found in dogs. There was no statistical difference in the age of the animals, and STT-1 and IOP values. In the present paper, average maned wolf STT-1 levels were lower compared with those found in dogs, while the IOP was the same in maned wolves as in dogs. Due to the increased incidence in providing emergency care for maned wolf victims of road kill and fires, determination reference values of ocular parameters may improve the correct diagnosis and treatment of the disease.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi estabelecer dados de referência sobre a produção lacrimal (STT-1) e pressão intraocular (PIO) em lobos-guará em cativeiro. Foram utilizados 10 lobos-guará, saudáveis e adultos. Os animais foram contidos com cambão e mordaça e mantidos em decúbito lateral esquerdo. O TLS foi realizado no terço médio da pálpebra inferior, durante um minuto. A córnea foi dessensibilizada e a PIO mensurada com tonopen. A média do TLS-1 dos olhos direitos e esquerdo foi 11±5mm/min, não havendo diferença significativa entre os olhos (p=0,960). A média da PIO dos olhos direitos e esquerdo foi 20±6mmHg, não observando diferença entre os olhos direitos e esquerdos (p=0,836). Média STT-1 foi menor do que, e PIO foi o mesmo que os níveis normais em cães. Não houve diferença estatística na idade dos animais e valores STT-1 e da PIO. No presente trabalho, os níveis médios de guará STT-1 foram mais baixos em comparação com as observadas nos cães, enquanto que a pressão intraocular foi a mesma nos lobos guará como em cães. Devido ao aumento da incidência na prestação de cuidados de emergência para vítimas de lobos-guará atropelamentos e incêndios, determinar os valores de referência dos parâmetros oculares podem melhorar o diagnóstico correto e tratamento de doenças.(AU)

Behavioral and cardiopulmonary effects of dexmedetomidine alone and in combination with butorphanol, methadone, morphine or tramadol in conscious sheep.

OBJECTIVE: To compare cardiopulmonary and sedative effects following administration of dexmedetomidine alone or with butorphanol, methadone, morphine or tramadol in healthy sheep. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized crossover study. ANIMALS: Six Santa Inês sheep, five females, one male, aged 12-28 months and weighing 40.1 ± 6.2 kg. METHODS: Sheep were assigned treatments of dexmedetomidine (0.005 mg kg(-1) ; D); D and butorphanol (0.15 mg kg(-1) ; DB); D and methadone (0.5 mg kg(-1) ; DM); D and morphine (0.5 mg kg(-1) ; DMO); or D and tramadol (5.0 mg kg(-1) ; DT). All drugs were administered intravenously with at least 7 days between each treatment. Rectal temperature, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (fR ), invasive arterial pressure, blood gases and electrolytes were measured prior to administration of drugs (baseline, T0) and every 15 minutes following drug administration for 120 minutes (T15-T120). Sedation was scored by three observers blinded to treatment. RESULTS: HR decreased in all treatments and fR decreased in DM at T30 and DMO at T30 and T45. PaCO2 was increased in D, DB and DM compared with baseline, and PaO2 decreased in D at T15 and T45; in DB at T15 to T75; in DM at T15 to T60; in DMO at T15; and in DT at T15, T30 and T75. There was a decrease in temperature in D, DB and DM. An increased pH was measured in D at all time points and in DT at T30-T120. HCO3- and base excess were increased in all treatments compared with baseline. There were no statistical differences in sedation scores. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The combination of dexmedetomidine with butorphanol, methadone, morphine or tramadol resulted in similar changes in cardiopulmonary function and did not improve sedation when compared with dexmedetomidine alone.

Sedative and cardiopulmonary effects of xylazine alone or in combination with methadone, morphine or tramadol in sheep.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the cardiopulmonary and sedative effects of xylazine alone or in combination with methadone, morphine or tramadol in sheep. STUDY DESIGN: Experimental, prospective, crossover, randomized, blinded study. ANIMALS: Six Santa Inês breed sheep (females) aged 12 ± 8 months and weighing 39.5 ± 7.4 kg. METHODS: Sheep were sedated with each of four treatments in a randomized, crossover design, with a minimum washout period of 7 days between treatments. Treatments were: X [xylazine (0.1 mg kg(-1))]; XM [xylazine (0.1 mg kg(-1)) and methadone (0.5 mg kg(-1))]; XMO [xylazine (0.1 mg kg(-1)) and morphine (0.5 mg kg(-1))], and XT [xylazine (0.1 mg kg(-1)) and tramadol (5 mg kg(-1))]. Each drug combination was mixed in the syringe and injected intravenously. Sedation, heart rate (HR), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), rectal temperature (RT°C), respiratory rate (fR), arterial blood gases and electrolytes were measured before drug administration (T0) and then at 15 minute intervals for 120 minutes (T15-T120). RESULTS: Heart rate significantly decreased in all treatments compared with T0. PaCO2 values in XM and XMO were higher at all time points compared with T0. In treatments X and XM, pH, bicarbonate (HCO3-) and base excess were increased at all time points compared with T0. PaO2 was significantly decreased at T15-T75 in XM, at all time points in XMO, and at T15 and T30 in XT. Sedation at T15 and T30 in XM and XMO was greater than in the other treatments. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The combinations of methadone, morphine or tramadol with xylazine resulted in cardiopulmonary changes similar to those induced by xylazine alone in sheep. The combinations provided better sedation, principally at 15 minutes and 30 minutes following administration.

Cardiorespiratory, sedative and antinociceptive effects of dexmedetomidine alone or in combination with methadone, morphine or tramadol in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the cardiorespiratory, sedative and antinociceptive effects of dexmedetomidine alone or in combination with methadone, morphine or tramadol in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Experimental, blinded, randomized, crossover study. ANIMALS: Six mixed breed dogs (two males and four females) weighing 10 ± 4 kg. METHODS: The animals were randomly divided into four treatments: D (10 µg kg(-1) of dexmedetomidine), DM (dexmedetomidine 10 µg kg(-1) and methadone 0.5 mg kg(-1)); DMO (dexmedetomidine 10 µg kg(-1) and morphine 0.5 mg kg(-1)), and DT (dexmedetomidine 10 µg kg(-1) and tramadol 2 mg kg(-1)). The combinations were administered intramuscularly in all treatments. The variables evaluated were heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (f(R)), rectal temperature (RT), systolic arterial pressure (SAP), sedation scale and pedal withdrawal reflex. These variables were measured at T0 (immediately before the administration of the protocol) and every 15 minutes thereafter until T105. RESULTS: A decrease in HR and f(R) occurred in all the treatments compared with T0, but no significant difference was observed between the treatments. The RT decreased from T45 onward in all the treatments. The SAP did not show a difference between the treatments, but in the DT treatment, the SAP was lower at T30 and T45 compared with T0. The D treatment had lower scores of sedation at T15 to T75 compared with the other treatments, and the DMO and DM treatments showed higher scores at T60 and T75 compared with DT. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The treatments with morphine and methadone added to the dexmedetomidine showed higher sedation scores than the control treatment and the treatment with tramadol added to the dexmedetomidine showed no relevant differences in any of the variables evaluated in the study.

Splenic congestion associated with acepromazine administration in dogs / Congestão esplênica associada à aplicação de acepromazina em cães

The effects splenic dilatation induced by acepromazine in a prospective, randomized study. Thirtythree adult mongrel dogs were divided into two groups designated as AG (acepromazine 0.05 mg/kg, i.v., n = 23) and CG (0.9 percent sodium chloride administered at a similar volume, n = 10). In both groups underwent sonographic examinations before (T0) and fifteen minutes (T15) after drug injection. The thickness spleen and splenic vein width were measured. Higher thickness was found in the AG group at T15 (2.47 cm) when compared to that at T0 (2.06 cm, p = 0.016), while the T0 (2.33 cm) and T15 (2.39 cm) measures did not differ within the CG group. Moreover, the splenic vein width was higher (p = 0.013) at T15 than at T0 in the AG group. Based on results of this study, we concluded that acepromazine, in doses of 0.05 mg/kg, promotes splenomegaly in dogs after fifteen minutes of the injection.

Foram avaliados os efeitos de dilatação esplênica induzidos pela acepromazina em estudo do tipo prospectivo e randomizado. Trinta e três cães foram distribuídos em dois grupos designados como GA (acepromazina 0,05 mg/kg, i.v., n = 23) e GC (solução de cloreto de sódio 0,9 por cento em volume semelhante ao GA, i.v., n = 10). Em ambos os grupos foi realizada ultrassonografia abdominal previamente à aplicação das substâncias (T0) e após 15 minutos (T15). A espessura do baço e a largura da veia esplênica foram mensuradas. Foi verificada maior espessura esplênica no GA no T15 (2,47 cm) quando comparado a T0 (2,06 cm, p = 0,016), enquanto no GC não houve diferença significativa, sendo T0 (2,33 cm) e T15 (2,39 cm). Ainda, a largura da veia esplênica foi maior no T15 (p = 0,013) comparado a T0no GA. Baseado nos resultados encontrados, pode-se concluir que a acepromazina na dose de 0,05 mg/kg induz a esplenomegalia em cães após 15 minutos da aplicação.

Uso da acepromazina, dexmedetomidina e xilazina na sedação em cães: alterações hematológicas e bioquímicas

Foram avaliados os efeitos hematológicos e bioquímicos mediante a sedação com acepromazina, dexmedetomidina ou xilazina em cães. Para tanto, os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em 3 tratamentos denominados GA (acepromazina 0,1 mg/kg), GD (dexmedetomidina 0,01 mg/kg) e GX (xilazina 1 mg/kg) por via i.m. Os parâmetros verificados foram eritrócitos totais, hematócrito (Ht), hemoglobina (Hb), leucócitos totais, proteínas totais, alanina transferase, aspartato transferase, albumina, fosfatase alcalina, gama-glutamil transferase, creatinina e uréia plasmática. Os dados foram coletados nos momentos T0 a T480, sendo T0 previamente a aplicação dos fármacos e o restante dos momentos 15, 30, 60, 120, 240 e 480 minutos após a aplicação dos agentes. Foi observada redução dos eritrócitos totais em todos os momentos comparados ao basal no GA. Houve redução dos valores da Hb e do Ht durante todos os momentos de avaliação comparativamente a T0 no grupo GA e GX. Houve redução significativa dos leucócitos totais nos momentos T30, T60, T120 e T240 no GA comparativamente ao momento T0; já nos grupos GD e GX os valores médios foram inferiores ao T0 nos tempos T30 e T120, respectivamente. Não foram verificadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas variáveis bioquímicas analisadas entre os tempos e grupos.

Anastomose cavo-pulmonar associada ao suporte circulatório esquerdo comparada à assistência biventricular na falência cardíaca aguda / Cavo-pulmonary anastomosis associated with left ventricular in comparison with biventricular circulatory support in acute heart failure

OBJETIVO: Este estudo avaliou o desempenho hemodinâmico e as alterações miocárdicas decorrentes do emprego de dispositivos de assistência ventricular esquerda (DAVE), associado ou não à descompressão do ventrículo direito por meio de derivação cavo-pulmonar, sendo esses achados comparados ao emprego de assistência circulatória biventricular. MÉTODOS: Vinte e um suínos foram submetidos à indução de insuficiência cardíaca através de fibrilação ventricular, sendo a atividade circulatória mantida por DAVE durante 180 minutos. No grupo controle, foi apenas implantado o DAVE. No grupo derivação, além do DAVE foi realizada cirurgia de derivação cavo-pulmonar. No grupo biventricular, foi instituída assistência biventricular. Foram monitoradas as pressões intracavitárias por 3 horas de assistência e amostras do endocárdio dos dois ventrículos foram coletadas e analisadas à microscopia óptica e eletrônica. RESULTADOS: O lactato sérico foi significativamente menor no grupo biventricular (P=0,014). A diferença observada entre o fluxo do DAVE nos grupos derivação e controle (+55±14 ml/kg/min, P=0,072) não foi significativa, enquanto que o fluxo no grupo biventricular foi significativamente maior (+93±17 ml/kg/min, P=0,012) e se manteve estável durante o experimento. A pressão arterial média (PAM) se manteve constante apenas no grupo biventricular (P<0,001), que também apresentou diminuição significativa das pressões em câmaras direitas. Na análise ultraestrutural, notou-se menor presença edema miocárdico no ventrículo direito no grupo biventricular (P=0,017). CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados apresentados demonstram que o desempenho hemodinâmico da assistência ventricular esquerda associada à derivação cavo-pulmonar, neste modelo experimental, não foi superior ao observado com a assistência de ventrículo esquerdo isolada e não substituiu a assistência biventricular de maneira efetiva.

OBJECTIVE: Right ventricular (RV) failure during left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support can result in severe hemodynamic compromise with high mortality. This study investigated the acute effects of cavo-pulmonary anastomosis on LVAD performance and RV myocardial compromise in comparison with biventricular circulatory support, in a model of biventricular failure. METHODS: LVAD support was performed by centrifugal pump in 21 pigs with severe biventricular failure obtained by FV induction. Animals were randomized to be submitted to cavo-pulmonary anastomosis, to biventricular circulatory support or to control group. They were maintained under circulatory support and hemodynamic monitoring for 3h. Venous lactate and cytokines serum levels were also obtained. Endocardium samples were analyzed by electronic microscopy. RESULTS: FV maintenance was responsible for acute LVAD impairment after 180 min in the control group. cavo-pulmonary anastomosis resulted in non-significant improvement of LVAD pump flow in relation to control group (+55±14 ml/kg/min, P=0.072), while animals under biventricular support maintained higher LVAD flow (+93±17 ml/kg/min, P=0.012). Mean arterial pressure remained constant only in biventricular group (P<0.001), which also presented decrease of right atrial and ventricular pressures. Similar increases in lactate and cytokines levels were observed in the three groups. Ultra-structural analysis documented low levels of myocardial swelling in the biventricular group (P=0.017). CONCLUSION: The concomitant use of cavo-pulmonary anastomosis during LVAD support in a pig model of severe biventricular failure resulted in non-significant improvement of hemodynamic performance and it did not effectively replace the use of biventricular support.

Changes in tissue perfusion parameters in dogs with severe sepsis/septic shock in response to goal-directed hemodynamic optimization at admission to ICU and the relation to outcome.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the changes in tissue perfusion parameters in dogs with severe sepsis/septic shock in response to goal-directed hemodynamic optimization in the ICU and their relation to outcome. DESIGN: Prospective observational study. SETTING: ICU of a veterinary university medical center. ANIMALS: Thirty dogs with severe sepsis or septic shock caused by pyometra who underwent surgery and were admitted to the ICU. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Severe sepsis was defined as the presence of sepsis and sepsis-induced dysfunction of one or more organs. Septic shock was defined as the presence of severe sepsis plus hypotension not reversed with fluid resuscitation. After the presumptive diagnosis of sepsis secondary to pyometra, blood samples were collected and clinical findings were recorded. Volume resuscitation with 0.9% saline solution and antimicrobial therapy were initiated. Following abdominal ultrasonography and confirmation of increased uterine volume, dogs underwent corrective surgery. After surgery, the animals were admitted to the ICU, where resuscitation was guided by the clinical parameters, central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO(2)), lactate, and base deficit. Between survivors and nonsurvivors it was observed that the ScvO(2), lactate, and base deficit on ICU admission were each related independently to death (P = 0.001, P = 0.030, and P < 0.001, respectively). ScvO(2) and base deficit were found to be the best discriminators between survivors and nonsurvivors as assessed via receiver operator characteristic curve analysis. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that ScvO(2) and base deficit are useful in predicting the prognosis of dogs with severe sepsis and septic shock; animals with a higher ScvO(2) and lower base deficit at admission to the ICU have a lower probability of death.