Relationship between Na/K-ATPase in thawed sperm and fertility of Angus bulls.

Since bull fertility prediction remains challenging, the identification of potential fertility markers is important considering the economic benefits to the livestock industry. The main goal of this study was to determine the Na/K-ATPase activity and expression in thawed sperm of high (HF)- and low-fertility (LF) Angus bulls. Samples from three different batches/bulls with HF (n = 4) and LF (n = 4) were used. The Na/K-ATPase activity was determined after thawing, whereas sperm kinematics, membrane integrity, and expression of Na/K-ATPase on sperm surface were evaluated immediately post-thaw and after 120 minutes of incubation. Within the same incubation time, there was no difference on sperm membrane integrity, kinematics, and the expression of Na/K-ATPase on the sperm surface between HF and LF bulls. Kinematic parameters of LIN and VCL were not influenced by incubation time in samples from HF and LF, respectively. A tendency (P = 0.06) of higher Na/K-ATPase enzymatic activity for sperm of HF bulls compared to LF bulls was observed (0.49 ± 0.07 and 0.32 ± 0.06, respectively). In conclusion, Na/K-ATPase activity and expression in thawed sperm from Angus bulls are not related to the fertility index after fixed-time artificial insemination. However, sperm kinematics related to hyperactivation might indicate higher sperm cryotolerance for HF bulls.

Post-thaw quality of ram sperm frozen with different concentrations of low-density lipoproteins associated with non-enzymatic antioxidants.

The cryopreservation reduces ram sperm quality, decreasing the pregnancy rate of ewes inseminated with thawed sperm. Hence, we aimed to improve the post-thaw quality of ram sperm replacing egg yolk on Tris-Glucose extender with different concentrations of LDL (2 or 8%), associated with the addition of 10 mM non-enzymatic antioxidants (ascorbic acid, hydroxytoluene butylate, ascorbyl palmitate, and trehalose). Semen samples were collected from six rams, split into different treatments, and frozen. After thawing, kinematic (CASA), structural (propidium iodide and carboxyfluorescein diacetate) and functional (hypoosmotic test) sperm membrane integrity was assessed. Total motility, VCL, and LIN were also assessed in thawed samples during 3 h of incubation (38 °C). The results showed that hydroxytoluene butylate at 10 mM in Tris-Glucose extender with 8% LDL improved velocity parameters immediately post-thaw compared with Tris-Glucose egg yolk extender, as well as prevented the reduction of total motility and VCL after incubation. There was no benefit of adding ascorbic acid and trehalose. Moreover, for the first time, it was shown the motility impairment promoted by ascorbyl palmitate to ram sperm.

Post-thaw quality of ram sperm frozen with different concentrations of low-density lipoproteins associated with non-enzymatic antioxidants

The cryopreservation reduces ram sperm quality, decreasing the pregnancy rate of ewes inseminated with thawed sperm. Hence, we aimed to improve the post-thaw quality of ram sperm replacing egg yolk on Tris-Glucose extender with different concentrations of LDL (2 or 8%), associated with the addition of 10 mM non-enzymatic antioxidants (ascorbic acid, hydroxytoluene butylate, ascorbyl palmitate, and trehalose). Semen samples were collected from six rams, split into different treatments, and frozen. After thawing, kinematic (CASA), structural (propidium iodide and carboxyfluorescein diacetate) and functional (hypoosmotic test) sperm membrane integrity was assessed. Total motility, VCL, and LIN were also assessed in thawed samples during 3 h of incubation (38 °C). The results showed that hydroxytoluene butylate at 10 mM in Tris-Glucose extender with 8% LDL improved velocity parameters immediately post-thaw compared with Tris-Glucose egg yolk extender, as well as prevented the reduction of total motility and VCL after incubation. There was no benefit of adding ascorbic acid and trehalose. Moreover, for the first time, it was shown the motility impairment promoted by ascorbyl palmitate to ram sperm.(AU)

Vincristine sulfate treatment influence on kidney function of female dogs with transmissible venereal tumor / Influência do tratamento com sulfato de vincristina na função renal de cadela com tumor transmissível venéreo

Chemotherapy agents have some undesirable and non-selective cytostatic effects. Considering that kidneys are vulnerable to drug-induced toxicity, this study evaluated renal injury caused by vincristine sulfate (VS) in 12 female dogs diagnosed with transmissible venereal tumor (TVT). The animals were treated with VS (0.025 mg/kg IV) every 7 days for 4 weeks. During treatment, the animals were subjected to clinical examination, blood count, serum measurement of symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase. In addition, urinalysis and urinary gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) measurements were performed. All parameters were determined three times: before beginning the treatment (T0), after 14 days (T1), and after 28 days (T2). During the study period, there were no changes in serum urea or creatinine levels, urine specific gravity, or persistent proteinuria. Furthermore, urinary GGT measurement did not indicate tubular lesions, and consistent elevation of SDMA was found in only one patient above the reference range. The results showed that weekly therapy with VS as a single agent for 28 days does not induce renal injury in most cases.(AU)

Os agentes quimioterápicos possuem efeitos citostáticos indesejáveis e não seletivos. Considerando a vulnerabilidade renal à toxicidade induzida por drogas, este estudo avaliou a lesão renal causada pelo sulfato de vincristina (VS) em 12 cadelas com diagnóstico de tumor venéreo transmissível (TVT). Os animais foram tratados com VS (0,025 mg / kg IV) a cada sete dias, durante quatro semanas. No transcurso do tratamento, os animais foram submetidos a exame clínico, hemograma, dosagem sérica de dimetilarginina simétrica (SDMA), nitrogênio ureico sanguíneo (BUN), creatinina, alanina aminotransferase e fosfatase alcalina. Além disso, foram realizadas análises de urina e medições de gama-glutamil transferase (GGT) urinária. Todos os parâmetros foram mensurados em três tempos, antes do início do tratamento (T0), aos 14 dias (T1) e aos 28 dias (T2). Durante o período do estudo, não houve alterações nas concentrações de ureia ou creatinina séricas, na gravidade específica da urina ou proteinúria persistente. Além disso, a medição de GGT urinária não indicou lesões tubulares, e elevação consistente de SDMA foi encontrada em apenas um paciente acima do intervalo de referência. Os resultados mostraram que a terapia semanal com VS como agente único por 28 dias não induz lesão renal na maioria dos casos.(AU)

Mitoquinone does not improve sperm cryo-resistance in bulls.

Oxidative stress is associated with impaired post-thaw sperm quality. As mitochondria are the main source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in sperm, the goal of this study was to evaluate effects of the mitochondria-targeting antioxidant Mitoquinone (MitoQ) during cryopreservation of bull sperm. Semen was collected from 11 Simmental bulls (two ejaculates per bull) and diluted in Triladyl® supplemented with various concentrations of MitoQ (0, 0.2, 2, and 20 nM) to a final concentration of 65 × 106  sperm/ml. After thawing (0 and 3 hr), we assessed the following sperm traits: sperm motility by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA), DNA fragmentation index by SCSA® and plasma and acrosome membrane integrity, intracellular calcium concentration, esterase activity, mitochondrial membrane potential and synthesis of ROS using two multicolour flow cytometric assays. After 3 hr of incubation, 20 nM MitoQ increased (p < .05) sperm ROS synthesis compared to Control, whereas none of the other quality parameters were altered (p > .05). Therefore, we concluded that addition of MitoQ to semen extender before cryopreservation of bull sperm was unable to improve post-thaw sperm quality. Furthermore, 20 nM of MitoQ increased frozen-thawed sperm ROS synthesis, without apparent negative effects on the evaluated sperm traits.

Uso da galactose na vitrificação de sêmen ovino em palhetas / Use of galactose to vitrify ram semen in straws

A vitrificação de espermatozoides é uma técnica que apresenta grande potencial para criopreservação de material genético, e sua eficácia tem sido superior aos métodos convencionais em algumas espécies. No entanto, existem poucos estudos sobre sua eficiência com sêmen ejaculado de carneiros e o uso da galactose como crioprotetor extracelular durante a vitrificação. Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar o efeito da galactose (0,01 M), associada ou não ao glicerol (3% e 7%), em meio comercial (Steridyl® - controle), na criopreservação de espermatozoides de carneiros pelo método de palhetas, comparando o método clássico de congelação e a vitrificação. Ejaculados de seis carneiros da raça Dorper em idade reprodutiva foram coletados com vagina artificial, aliquotados, diluídos individualmente (100 × 106 espermatozoides/mL) nos meios testados, envasados em palhetas de 0,25 mL e submetidos à congelação clássica ou vitrificação. Foram analisadas a cinemática, morfologia, morfometria, viabilidade, integridade física e funcional da membrana espermática. A congelação clássica obteve melhores resultados de motilidade total e progressiva do que a vitrificação nos quatro extensores testados, uma vez que as amostras vitrificadas não apresentaram motilidade pós-reaquecimento (p < 0,05). A adição de galactose ou glicerol ao meio comercial não trouxe efeito benéfico tanto para a vitrificação quanto congelação clássica.

Sperm vitrification is a technique with great potential for cryopreservation of genetic material, with superior effectiveness compared to conventional methods in some species. However, few studies have shown its efficiency with ejaculated sperm of rams and the use of galactose as an extracellular cryoprotectant during vitrification. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of galactose (0.01 M), with or without glycerol addition (3% and 7%) in a commercial extender (Steridyl® - control) for ram sperm cryopreservation in straws, comparing the classic freezing method and vitrification. Ejaculates from six breeding soundness Dorper rams were collected with an artificial vagina, aliquoted, individually diluted (100 × 106 sperm/mL) on extenders tested, loaded into 0.25 mL straws, and subjected to a classic freezing method or vitrification. Sperm kinematics, morphology, morphometry, viability, and physical and functional integrity of the sperm membrane were evaluated. The classic freezing method resulted in higher total and progressive motility than vitrification, as no motility was detected in vitrified samples after rewarming (p<0.05). The addition of galactose or glycerol to the commercial medium did not benefit both vitrification and the classic freezing method.

Uso da galactose na vitrificação de sêmen ovino em palhetas / Use of galactose to vitrify ram semen in straws

A vitrificação de espermatozoides é uma técnica que apresenta grande potencial para criopreservação de material genético, e sua eficácia tem sido superior aos métodos convencionais em algumas espécies. No entanto, existem poucos estudos sobre sua eficiência com sêmen ejaculado de carneiros e o uso da galactose como crioprotetor extracelular durante a vitrificação. Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar o efeito da galactose (0,01 M), associada ou não ao glicerol (3% e 7%), em meio comercial (Steridyl® - controle), na criopreservação de espermatozoides de carneiros pelo método de palhetas, comparando o método clássico de congelação e a vitrificação. Ejaculados de seis carneiros da raça Dorper em idade reprodutiva foram coletados com vagina artificial, aliquotados, diluídos individualmente (100 × 106 espermatozoides/mL) nos meios testados, envasados em palhetas de 0,25 mL e submetidos à congelação clássica ou vitrificação. Foram analisadas a cinemática, morfologia, morfometria, viabilidade, integridade física e funcional da membrana espermática. A congelação clássica obteve melhores resultados de motilidade total e progressiva do que a vitrificação nos quatro extensores testados, uma vez que as amostras vitrificadas não apresentaram motilidade pós-reaquecimento (p < 0,05). A adição de galactose ou glicerol ao meio comercial não trouxe efeito benéfico tanto para a vitrificação quanto congelação clássica.

Sperm vitrification is a technique with great potential for cryopreservation of genetic material, with superior effectiveness compared to conventional methods in some species. However, few studies have shown its efficiency with ejaculated sperm of rams and the use of galactose as an extracellular cryoprotectant during vitrification. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of galactose (0.01 M), with or without glycerol addition (3% and 7%) in a commercial extender (Steridyl® - control) for ram sperm cryopreservation in straws, comparing the classic freezing method and vitrification. Ejaculates from six breeding soundness Dorper rams were collected with an artificial vagina, aliquoted, individually diluted (100 × 106 sperm/mL) on extenders tested, loaded into 0.25 mL straws, and subjected to a classic freezing method or vitrification. Sperm kinematics, morphology, morphometry, viability, and physical and functional integrity of the sperm membrane were evaluated. The classic freezing method resulted in higher total and progressive motility than vitrification, as no motility was detected in vitrified samples after rewarming (p<0.05). The addition of galactose or glycerol to the commercial medium did not benefit both vitrification and the classic freezing method.

Inhibition of Na+, K+ -ATPase with ouabain is detrimental to equine blastocysts.

Although equine blastocysts ≤ 300 µm in diameter can be successfully vitrified, larger equine blastocysts are not good candidates for cryopreservation. As Na+, K+-ATPase is involved in maintaining blastocyst expansion, perhaps inhibition of this enzyme would be a viable method of reducing blastocyst diameter prior to cryopreservation. Objectives were to evaluate effects of ouabain-induced inhibition of Na+, K+-ATPase in equine blastocysts. Sixteen mares were ultrasonographically monitored, given deslorelin acetate to induce ovulation, and inseminated. Embryos (D7 and D9) were harvested and Na+, K+-ATPase inhibited for 1 or 6 h by exposure to 10-6 M ouabain, either natural ouabain or conjugated to fluorescein (OuabainFL), during incubation at 37° C. Evaluations included morphometric characteristics (bright field microscopy) and viability (Hoescht 33342 + propidium iodide). Blastocysts incubated for 6 h in Holding medium + ouabain (n=3) had, on average, a 45.7% reduction in diameter, with adverse morphologic features and no re-expansion after subsequent incubation in Holding medium for 12 h. In subsequent studies, even a 1-h exposure to Ouabain or OuabainFL, caused similar reductions, namely 38.7 ± 6.7% (n=5) and 33.6 ± 3.3% (n=7) for D7 and D9 blastocysts, respectively. Ouabain binding was confirmed after OuabainFL exposition and all embryos (n=12) lost viability. We concluded that Na+, K+-ATPase inhibition with ouabain caused death of equine blastocysts and therefore was not a viable method of reducing blastocyst size prior to cryopreservation.

Inhibition of Na+, K+ -ATPase with ouabain is detrimental to equine blastocysts

Although equine blastocysts ≤ 300 µm in diameter can be successfully vitrified, larger equine blastocysts are not good candidates for cryopreservation. As Na+, K+-ATPase is involved in maintaining blastocyst expansion, perhaps inhibition of this enzyme would be a viable method of reducing blastocyst diameter prior to cryopreservation. Objectives were to evaluate effects of ouabain-induced inhibition of Na+, K+-ATPase in equine blastocysts. Sixteen mares were ultrasonographically monitored, given deslorelin acetate to induce ovulation, and inseminated. Embryos (D7 and D9) were harvested and Na+, K+-ATPase inhibited for 1 or 6 h by exposure to 10-6 M ouabain, either natural ouabain or conjugated to fluorescein (OuabainFL), during incubation at 37° C. Evaluations included morphometric characteristics (bright field microscopy) and viability (Hoescht 33342 + propidium iodide). Blastocysts incubated for 6 h in Holding medium + ouabain (n=3) had, on average, a 45.7% reduction in diameter, with adverse morphologic features and no re-expansion after subsequent incubation in Holding medium for 12 h. In subsequent studies, even a 1-h exposure to Ouabain or OuabainFL, caused similar reductions, namely 38.7 ± 6.7% (n=5) and 33.6 ± 3.3% (n=7) for D7 and D9 blastocysts, respectively. Ouabain binding was confirmed after OuabainFL exposition and all embryos (n=12) lost viability. We concluded that Na+, K+-ATPase inhibition with ouabain caused death of equine blastocysts and therefore was not a viable method of reducing blastocyst size prior to cryopreservation.

Inhibition of Na+, K+ -ATPase with ouabain is detrimental to equine blastocysts

Although equine blastocysts ≤ 300 µm in diameter can be successfully vitrified, larger equine blastocysts are not good candidates for cryopreservation. As Na+, K+-ATPase is involved in maintaining blastocyst expansion, perhaps inhibition of this enzyme would be a viable method of reducing blastocyst diameter prior to cryopreservation. Objectives were to evaluate effects of ouabain-induced inhibition of Na+, K+-ATPase in equine blastocysts. Sixteen mares were ultrasonographically monitored, given deslorelin acetate to induce ovulation, and inseminated. Embryos (D7 and D9) were harvested and Na+, K+-ATPase inhibited for 1 or 6 h by exposure to 10-6 M ouabain, either natural ouabain or conjugated to fluorescein (OuabainFL), during incubation at 37° C. Evaluations included morphometric characteristics (bright field microscopy) and viability (Hoescht 33342 + propidium iodide). Blastocysts incubated for 6 h in Holding medium + ouabain (n=3) had, on average, a 45.7% reduction in diameter, with adverse morphologic features and no re-expansion after subsequent incubation in Holding medium for 12 h. In subsequent studies, even a 1-h exposure to Ouabain or OuabainFL, caused similar reductions, namely 38.7 ± 6.7% (n=5) and 33.6 ± 3.3% (n=7) for D7 and D9 blastocysts, respectively. Ouabain binding was confirmed after OuabainFL exposition and all embryos (n=12) lost viability. We concluded that Na+, K+-ATPase inhibition with ouabain caused death of equine blastocysts and therefore was not a viable method of reducing blastocyst size prior to cryopreservation.(AU)

Distúrbios reprodutivos em cabras experimentalmente infectadas por Toxoplasma gondii / Reproductive disorders in does experimentally infected by Toxoplasma gondii

Objetivou-se descrever os distúrbios reprodutivos associados à infecção experimental por Toxoplasma gondii através da inseminação artificial com sêmen contaminado em quatro cabras no estágio crônico da infecção. As características do trato reprodutor foram avaliadas através de ultrassonografia transretal, visando o diagnóstico gestacional ou de desordens reprodutivas, após a infecção experimental. Ao final do experimento, os animais foram necropsiados e avaliações histopatológicas e PCR foram realizados. Dentre os animais infectados que exibiram mortalidade embrionária, duas apresentaram anestro e duas apresentaram repetição de estro, sendo que destas uma apresentou intervalos entre estros reduzido (sete dias) e outra em intervalo regular (21 dias). Todavia, ambas foram submetidas a monta natural durante os estros naturais subsequentes e não foi confirmada gestação até o final do experimento (90 dias). Duas cabras exibiram alterações nos exames de ultrassonografia, sendo identificadas um cisto ovariano, e uma hidrossalpinge, ambas confirmadas no exame post-mortem. As principais lesões microscópicas nesse grupo foram infiltração neutrofílica dos pulmões, glomerulonefrite intersticial e infiltração neutrofílica do fígado. O DNA de T. gondii foi encontrado nos órgãos (coração e cérebro) de três cabras. Em conclusão, cabras infectadas com sêmen contendo T. gondii no momento da inseminação artificial apresentam distúrbios reprodutivos na fase crônica da infecção que podem estar associados à toxoplasmose.(AU)

The aim of this study was to describe the reproductive disorders related to experimental infection by artificial insemination with semen contaminated with Toxoplasma gondii of four goats in the chronic phase of the infection. In the end of the study, the does were submitted to necropsy, and PCR and histopathological evaluations were performed. Among infected does that exhibited embryonic loss, two were in anestrus and two exhibited repeated estrus. One of the latter animals exhibited clinical signs of estrus at seven-day intervals, whereas the other had a 21-day estrous cycle. However, both does were naturally mated on subsequent natural estrous and were not able to get pregnant until the end of the experiment (90 d). Two of the goats exhibited abnormalities in the ultrasound examinations, one of which was an ovarian cyst, while the other was a hydrosalpinx, both of which were confirmed in the post-mortem examination. The main microscopic injuries in this group were neutrophilic infiltration of the lungs, interstitial glomerulonephritis and neutrophilic infiltration of the liver. T. gondii DNA was found in the organs (heart and brain) of three does. In conclusion, does infected with Toxoplasma gondii in semen at the time of artificial insemination display reproductive disorders in the chronic phase of infection that might be associated with toxoplasmosis.(AU)

Reproductive disorders in does experimentally infected by Toxoplasma gondii / Distúrbios reprodutivos em cabras experimentalmente infectadas por Toxoplasma gondii

The aim of this study was to describe the reproductive disorders related to experimental infection by artificial insemination with semen contaminated with Toxoplasma gondii of four goats in the chronic phase of the infection. In the end of the study, the does were submitted to necropsy, and PCR and histopathological evaluations were performed. Among infected does that exhibited embryonic loss, two were in anestrus and two exhibited repeated estrus. One of the latter animals exhibited clinical signs of estrus at seven-day intervals, whereas the other had a 21-day estrous cycle. However, both does were naturally mated on subsequent natural estrous and were not able to get pregnant until the end of the experiment (90 d). Two of the goats exhibited abnormalities in the ultrasound examinations, one of which was an ovarian cyst, while the other was a hydrosalpinx, both of which were confirmed in the post-mortem examination. The main microscopic injuries in this group were neutrophilic infiltration of the lungs, interstitial glomerulonephritis and neutrophilic infiltration of the liver. T. gondii DNA was found in the organs (heart and brain) of three does. In conclusion, does infected with Toxoplasma gondii in semen at the time of artificial insemination display reproductive disorders in the chronic phase of infection that might be associated with toxoplasmosis.

Objetivou-se descrever os distúrbios reprodutivos associados à infecção experimental por Toxoplasma gondii através da inseminação artificial com sêmen contaminado em quatro cabras no estágio crônico da infecção. As características do trato reprodutor foram avaliadas através de ultrassonografia transretal, visando o diagnóstico gestacional ou de desordens reprodutivas, após a infecção experimental. Ao final do experimento, os animais foram necropsiados e avaliações histopatológicas e PCR foram realizados. Dentre os animais infectados que exibiram mortalidade embrionária, duas apresentaram anestro e duas apresentaram repetição de estro, sendo que destas uma apresentou intervalos entre estros reduzido (sete dias) e outra em intervalo regular (21 dias). Todavia, ambas foram submetidas a monta natural durante os estros naturais subsequentese não foi confirmada gestação até o final do experimento (90 dias). Duas cabras exibiram alterações nos exames de ultrassonografia, sendo identificadas um cisto ovariano, e uma hidrossalpinge, ambas confirmadas no exame post-mortem. As principais lesões microscópicas nesse grupo foram infiltração neutrofílica dos pulmões, glomerulonefrite intersticial e infiltração neutrofílica do fígado. O DNA de T. gondii foi encontrado nos órgãos (coração e cérebro) de três cabras. Em conclusão, cabras infectadas comsêmen contendoT. gondii no momento da inseminação artificial apresentam distúrbios reprodutivos na fase crônica da infecção que podem estar associados à toxoplasmose.

Distúrbios reprodutivos em cabras experimentalmente infectadas por Toxoplasma gondii / Reproductive disorders in does experimentally infected by Toxoplasma gondii

Objetivou-se descrever os distúrbios reprodutivos associados à infecção experimental por Toxoplasma gondii através da inseminação artificial com sêmen contaminado em quatro cabras no estágio crônico da infecção. As características do trato reprodutor foram avaliadas através de ultrassonografia transretal, visando o diagnóstico gestacional ou de desordens reprodutivas, após a infecção experimental. Ao final do experimento, os animais foram necropsiados e avaliações histopatológicas e PCR foram realizados. Dentre os animais infectados que exibiram mortalidade embrionária, duas apresentaram anestro e duas apresentaram repetição de estro, sendo que destas uma apresentou intervalos entre estros reduzido (sete dias) e outra em intervalo regular (21 dias). Todavia, ambas foram submetidas a monta natural durante os estros naturais subsequentes e não foi confirmada gestação até o final do experimento (90 dias). Duas cabras exibiram alterações nos exames de ultrassonografia, sendo identificadas um cisto ovariano, e uma hidrossalpinge, ambas confirmadas no exame post-mortem. As principais lesões microscópicas nesse grupo foram infiltração neutrofílica dos pulmões, glomerulonefrite intersticial e infiltração neutrofílica do fígado. O DNA de T. gondii foi encontrado nos órgãos (coração e cérebro) de três cabras. Em conclusão, cabras infectadas com sêmen contendo T. gondii no momento da inseminação artificial apresentam distúrbios reprodutivos na fase crônica da infecção que podem estar associados à toxoplasmose.

The aim of this study was to describe the reproductive disorders related to experimental infection by artificial insemination with semen contaminated with Toxoplasma gondii of four goats in the chronic phase of the infection. In the end of the study, the does were submitted to necropsy, and PCR and histopathological evaluations were performed. Among infected does that exhibited embryonic loss, two were in anestrus and two exhibited repeated estrus. One of the latter animals exhibited clinical signs of estrus at seven-day intervals, whereas the other had a 21-day estrous cycle. However, both does were naturally mated on subsequent natural estrous and were not able to get pregnant until the end of the experiment (90 d). Two of the goats exhibited abnormalities in the ultrasound examinations, one of which was an ovarian cyst, while the other was a hydrosalpinx, both of which were confirmed in the post-mortem examination. The main microscopic injuries in this group were neutrophilic infiltration of the lungs, interstitial glomerulonephritis and neutrophilic infiltration of the liver. T. gondii DNA was found in the organs (heart and brain) of three does. In conclusion, does infected with Toxoplasma gondii in semen at the time of artificial insemination display reproductive disorders in the chronic phase of infection that might be associated with toxoplasmosis.

Vitrificação de espermatozoides em pequenos ruminantes / Small ruminant sperm vitrification

A vitrificação é uma alternativa viável ao método de criopreservação clássica e consiste na utilização de altas concentrações de agente crioprotetores e rápida congelação, tendo como principal vantagem à não formação de cristais de gelo. Esta técnica é acessível por apresentar facilidade, rapidez e baixo custo para sua produção, não necessitando de grandes equipamentos, apresentando-se com grande potencial a ser explorado. Portanto, objetivouse com esta revisão descrever as principais características da vitrificação, bem como os resultados obtidos com sêmen de em caprinos e ovinos e as perspectivas para a utilização desta técnica.

Vitrification is a viable alternative to the classical cryopreservation method and consists in the use of high concentrations of cryoprotectants and fast freezing, having as the main advantage the absence of ice crystals formation. The feasibility of this technique is related to be easy, fast and with low cost of execution, since no expensive equipment is needed, presenting a high potential for investigation. Therefore, the objective of this review was to describe the characteristics of vitrification, as well as the results obtained with sheep and goat semen, and the perspectives for the adoption of this technique.

Vitrificação de espermatozoides em pequenos ruminantes / Small ruminant sperm vitrification

A vitrificação é uma alternativa viável ao método de criopreservação clássica e consiste na utilização de altas concentrações de agente crioprotetores e rápida congelação, tendo como principal vantagem à não formação de cristais de gelo. Esta técnica é acessível por apresentar facilidade, rapidez e baixo custo para sua produção, não necessitando de grandes equipamentos, apresentando-se com grande potencial a ser explorado. Portanto, objetivouse com esta revisão descrever as principais características da vitrificação, bem como os resultados obtidos com sêmen de em caprinos e ovinos e as perspectivas para a utilização desta técnica.(AU)

Vitrification is a viable alternative to the classical cryopreservation method and consists in the use of high concentrations of cryoprotectants and fast freezing, having as the main advantage the absence of ice crystals formation. The feasibility of this technique is related to be easy, fast and with low cost of execution, since no expensive equipment is needed, presenting a high potential for investigation. Therefore, the objective of this review was to describe the characteristics of vitrification, as well as the results obtained with sheep and goat semen, and the perspectives for the adoption of this technique.(AU)

Artificial insemination in small ruminants / Inseminação artificial em pequenos ruminantes

Although artificial insemination (AI) has been described in many domes­tic species, it still remains with a great potential of use in small ruminants, com­pared to others species such as cattle. This brief review aimed to describe few central aspects of small ruminants AI, highlighting differences between sheep and goat species, as well as some advantages and limitations of each technique (vaginal, simple transcervical, and intrauterine laparoscopic or transcervical). Due to pronounced contribution that AI could exert on breed genetics improve­ment and considering the current demand for high-quality products, it is of note that the knowledge about the productive system and reproductive peculiarities from each farm have to be properly aligned, allowing the correct chose of AI technique and also other appropriate reproductive biotechnologies that enhance profitability.(AU)

Apesar de ser uma técnica há muito descrita em diversas espécies do­mésticas, a inseminação artificial (IA) ainda permanece com grande potencial de utilização em pequenos ruminantes, quando comparada a sua utilização em outras espécies, como a bovina. Essa breve revisão objetiva descrever alguns aspectos centrais da IA em pequenos ruminantes, enfatizando diferenças entre as espécies caprina e ovina, bem como algumas vantagens e limitações de cada uma da das técnicas (vaginal, transcervical simples e intrauterina laparoscó­pica ou transcervical). Devido a grande contribuição que a IA pode exercer no melhoramento genético e a atual demanda por subprodutos de alta qualidade, é importante que os conhecimentos sobre o sistema produtivo e peculiaridades reprodutivas de cada propriedade estejam alinhados, de forma a selecionar a técnica de IA ou outras biotecnologias reprodutivas adequadas, permitindo o aumento da rentabilidade.(AU)

Artificial insemination in small ruminants / Inseminação artificial em pequenos ruminantes

Although artificial insemination (AI) has been described in many domes­tic species, it still remains with a great potential of use in small ruminants, com­pared to others species such as cattle. This brief review aimed to describe few central aspects of small ruminants AI, highlighting differences between sheep and goat species, as well as some advantages and limitations of each technique (vaginal, simple transcervical, and intrauterine laparoscopic or transcervical). Due to pronounced contribution that AI could exert on breed genetics improve­ment and considering the current demand for high-quality products, it is of note that the knowledge about the productive system and reproductive peculiarities from each farm have to be properly aligned, allowing the correct chose of AI technique and also other appropriate reproductive biotechnologies that enhance profitability.

Apesar de ser uma técnica há muito descrita em diversas espécies do­mésticas, a inseminação artificial (IA) ainda permanece com grande potencial de utilização em pequenos ruminantes, quando comparada a sua utilização em outras espécies, como a bovina. Essa breve revisão objetiva descrever alguns aspectos centrais da IA em pequenos ruminantes, enfatizando diferenças entre as espécies caprina e ovina, bem como algumas vantagens e limitações de cada uma da das técnicas (vaginal, transcervical simples e intrauterina laparoscó­pica ou transcervical). Devido a grande contribuição que a IA pode exercer no melhoramento genético e a atual demanda por subprodutos de alta qualidade, é importante que os conhecimentos sobre o sistema produtivo e peculiaridades reprodutivas de cada propriedade estejam alinhados, de forma a selecionar a técnica de IA ou outras biotecnologias reprodutivas adequadas, permitindo o aumento da rentabilidade.

Hemorragia escrotal consequente a hemangioma do tipo solar em cão da raça Pit Bull (Relato de caso) / Scrotal bleeding as a result of hemangioma of the solar type in dog: Case report / Escrotal sangrado como consecuencia de hemangioma del tipo solar en perro: Presentación de un caso

Alterações vasculares são observadas com frequência no atendimento clínico veterinário de pequenos animais, sendo importante a utilização de ferramentas que permitam o diagnóstico diferencial dessas patologias.Dentre as afecções vasculares, estão os hemangiomas que são neoplasias benignas, caracterizadas como nódulos isolados ou associados, contendo sangue, que podem ser observados tanto nos órgãos internos quanto na superfície cutânea. Geralmente, esta neoformação ocorre em cães entre 9 e 10 anos de idade e, apesar de sua involução espontânea ser possível, muitos casos requerem conduta cirúrgica. Este trabalho descreve o caso de um cão da raça Pit Buli de 4 anos de idade, com histórico de graves hemorragias escrotais, diagnosticado como portador de hemangioma solar após exame ultrassonográfico e histopatológico, onde optou-se pelo tratamento cirúrgico, sendo realizada orquiectomia com excisão total do escroto.

Vascular abnormalities are observed frequently in the veterinary clinical care of small animais, it is important to use tools that allow the difterential diagnosis of these pathologies. Among vascular disorders,hemangiomas are benign tumors that are characterized as isolated or associated nodes containing blood, which can be observed both in internal organs and in the skin surface. Generally, this new formation occurs in dogs between 9 and 10 years old and, despite its spontaneous regression is possible, many cases require surgical management. This paper describes the case of a dog's breed Pit Buli 4 years old, with a history of severe scrotal bleeding, diagnosed with solar hemangioma following ultrasonography and histopathological where we opted for surgical treatment, orchiectomy performed with excision total scrotum.

Se observan cambios vasculares con frecuencia en la atención clínica veterinaria de pequenos animales, es importante utilizar herramientas que permiten el diagnóstico diferencial de estas patologías. Entre los trastornos vasculares, los hemangiomas son tumores benignos que se caracterizan como nodos aislados o asociados que contienen sangre, que pueden observarse tanto en los órganos internos y en la superficie de la piel. En qeneral,esta nueva formación se da en perros entre 9 y 10 anos y, a pesar de su regresión espontánea es posible, muchos casos requieren tratamiento quirúrgico. En este trabajo se describe el caso de la raza de un perro Pit Buli 4 anos de edad, con antecedentes de hemorragia severa escrotal, con diagnóstico de hemangioma solar tras la ecografía ehistopatológico, donde se optó por el tratamiento quirúrgico, la orquiectomía realizada con escisión esc roto total.

Hemorragia escrotal consequente a hemangioma do tipo solar em cão da raça Pit Bull (Relato de caso) / Scrotal bleeding as a result of hemangioma of the solar type in dog: Case report / Escrotal sangrado como consecuencia de hemangioma del tipo solar en perro: Presentación de un caso

Alterações vasculares são observadas com frequência no atendimento clínico veterinário de pequenos animais, sendo importante a utilização de ferramentas que permitam o diagnóstico diferencial dessas patologias.Dentre as afecções vasculares, estão os hemangiomas que são neoplasias benignas, caracterizadas como nódulos isolados ou associados, contendo sangue, que podem ser observados tanto nos órgãos internos quanto na superfície cutânea. Geralmente, esta neoformação ocorre em cães entre 9 e 10 anos de idade e, apesar de sua involução espontânea ser possível, muitos casos requerem conduta cirúrgica. Este trabalho descreve o caso de um cão da raça Pit Buli de 4 anos de idade, com histórico de graves hemorragias escrotais, diagnosticado como portador de hemangioma solar após exame ultrassonográfico e histopatológico, onde optou-se pelo tratamento cirúrgico, sendo realizada orquiectomia com excisão total do escroto.(AU)

Vascular abnormalities are observed frequently in the veterinary clinical care of small animais, it is important to use tools that allow the difterential diagnosis of these pathologies. Among vascular disorders,hemangiomas are benign tumors that are characterized as isolated or associated nodes containing blood, which can be observed both in internal organs and in the skin surface. Generally, this new formation occurs in dogs between 9 and 10 years old and, despite its spontaneous regression is possible, many cases require surgical management. This paper describes the case of a dog's breed Pit Buli 4 years old, with a history of severe scrotal bleeding, diagnosed with solar hemangioma following ultrasonography and histopathological where we opted for surgical treatment, orchiectomy performed with excision total scrotum.(AU)

Se observan cambios vasculares con frecuencia en la atención clínica veterinaria de pequenos animales, es importante utilizar herramientas que permiten el diagnóstico diferencial de estas patologías. Entre los trastornos vasculares, los hemangiomas son tumores benignos que se caracterizan como nodos aislados o asociados que contienen sangre, que pueden observarse tanto en los órganos internos y en la superficie de la piel. En qeneral,esta nueva formación se da en perros entre 9 y 10 anos y, a pesar de su regresión espontánea es posible, muchos casos requieren tratamiento quirúrgico. En este trabajo se describe el caso de la raza de un perro Pit Buli 4 anos de edad, con antecedentes de hemorragia severa escrotal, con diagnóstico de hemangioma solar tras la ecografía ehistopatológico, donde se optó por el tratamiento quirúrgico, la orquiectomía realizada con escisión esc roto total.(AU)

Agalaxia contagiosa. Um novo problema para caprinos e ovinos do Brasil / Contagious agalactia. A “new” problem to goats and sheep of the Brazil

The article presents a review of the main clinical and epidemiological characteristics and contagious agalactia control measures. The disease is characterized by agalactia, mastitis, polyarthritis and keratoconjunctivitis and has been diagnosed in small ruminants from States of Northeast and Southeast of the Brazil. The use of homeopathic medicine presents good clinical results although not fully resolve joint damage. Prevention of the disease can be achieved by induction of birth, followed by immediate separation of kids to new group formation, vaccination of young animals and animal input control in the herd.(AU)

O artigo apresenta uma revisão das características clínico-epidemiológicas e medidas de controle da agalaxia contagiosa. A doença se caracteriza por mastite seguida de agalaxia, poliartrite e ceratoconjuntivite e tem sido diagnosticada em rebanhos dos estados do Nordeste e Sudeste brasileiro. O uso de medicamento homeopático apresenta bons resultados clínicos, embora não resolvam totalmente as lesões articulares. A prevenção da enfermidade pode ser obtida pela indução do parto, seguida de separação imediata das crias com formação de novo plantel, vacinação dos animais jovens e controle de entrada de animais no plantel.(AU)