Maternal protein restriction affects the differentiation of cells in the epididymal epithelium lining of 44-day-old rats.

Maternal protein restriction delays the differentiation of epididymal mesenchymal cells in newborn rats. However, it's unclear if this delay persists until the full differentiation of the epididymal epithelium at 44 days postnatal. Thus, this study aimed to assess the impact of maternal protein reduction on 44-day-old rats' epididymal epithelium differentiation, following up on the observed delay in newborn animals. Pregnant rats were randomly divided into groups receiving normal-protein (NP - 17% protein) or low-protein (LP - 6% protein) diets during gestation and lactation. On postnatal day (PDN) 44, male offspring were euthanized, and the epididymis (NP n=10, LP n=10) was processed according to immunohistochemical techniques for the detection of aquaporin 9 (AQP9), KI-67, TP63, and ATPase. LP rats showed: a decrease in the intensity of the AQP9 reaction, an increase in cellular proliferation in the initial segment and corpus of the epididymis, an increase in basal cells in the caput and corpus epididymis, and an increase in ATPase-positive clear cells in the cauda region. These findings demonstrate that maternal protein restriction impacts cell differentiation in the epididymal epithelium of 44-day-old rats, persisting even with a normal-protein diet after weaning.

Tomographic evaluation of the glands and lymph nodes of the cervical region in the crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous).

The present study aimed to determine references of normality of computed tomographic (CT) images of mandibular and parotid salivary glands (PSGs), medial retropharyngeal and mandibular lymph nodes and thyroid gland of 10 clinically healthy crab-eating foxes, Cerdocyon thous. The location, shape, homogeneity of the parenchyma, and length, height, width and pre- and post-contrast attenuation values were evaluated. The anatomical structures in the crab-eating foxes studied here presented anatomical landmarks similar to those described for domestic dogs, and showed a regular shape and homogenous parenchyma, except for the PSGs, that showed predominantly heterogeneous parenchyma. The thyroid gland topography in the crab-eating fox, though very similar, is not identical to the domestic dog and the presence of isthmus between the lobes was not detected. The values obtained from crab-eating foxes are within the normal range, although in the upper limits of dogs. There was a significant difference in the attenuation values between the right and left lobes of the thyroid gland, being greater in the left thyroid lobe. CT attenuation values ranges for this neotropical canid can be incorporated into routine staging procedures in the veterinary care of the crab-eating foxes. Furthermore, the CT images obtained were similar to those of healthy dogs, and the information obtained can be considered as initial tomographic references of normality in the cervical structures of the crab-eating fox, in order to aid in the diagnosis of future diseases that can affect this neotropical canid.

Morphology and computed tomography of the larynx in the white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris).

The white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris) is a Neotropical marsupial that occurs in the Brazilian territory. The larynx is an important organ of vocalization in mammals, although, other laryngeal functions are more fundamental for survival of mammals than phonation. The anatomical knowledge of respiratory structures is pivotal for a better understanding of the species. Thus, this study aimed to examine the larynx of the white-eared opossum by gross anatomy, computed tomography and histological description. For this, 10 adult (six females and four males) white-eared opossums (D. albiventris) were used. The white-eared opossum larynx was formed by epiglottis, thyroid, cricoids and arytenoid cartilages and a corniculate process. There is a similarity between the larynx of this marsupial and those reported in other wild mammals, regarding the number of cartilages and their location. Histologically, the epiglottis consisted of elastic cartilage and thyroid, cricoid and arytenoid cartilages were composed of hyaline cartilage. The epiglottis protruded rostrally into the nasal part of the pharynx, above the soft palate, and this is probably a marsupial characteristic as the fact that the thyroid and cricoid cartilages were ventrally fused. The hyoid apparatus was similar to that of other animals, with the same bony constitution, but with a greatly reduced stylohyoid bone. Histologically, the larynx was similar to those of other species such as koala, armadillo, crab-eating foxes and giant anteaters. The knowledge of the larynx morphology is important for the anatomical features of the species and clinical and surgical procedures, such as endotracheal intubation.

Bone Anatomy of the Thoracic Limb in the Common Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) and White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum)

SUMMARY: Although megaherbivores do not belong to the Brazilian fauna, they can be found in national zoos, which makes it important to know the anatomy of the locomotor apparatus to contribute to the clinical routine of zoos and veterinary rehabilitation centers. Thus, the aim of this study was to describe the anatomical structures of the thoracic limb bones in the common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) and white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) and to compare them with the bone structures described for other ungulates. The scapula had a triangular appearance in the common hippopotamus, whereas in the white rhinoceros it had a rectangular appearance. The acromion was observed only in the common hippopotamus scapula. The hippopotamus humerus did not have the intermediate tubercle, only the greater and lesser tubercles, unlike the rhinoceros which also has the intermediate tubercle. The two megamammals studied had an ulna not incorporated to the radius and seven carpal bones distributed in two bone rows. The common hippopotamus had four digits and four metacarpal bones, while the white rhino had three digits, hence three metacarpal bones. Although with some species-specific differences, the bone anatomy found in the studied megaherbivores was similar to that described for domestic ungulates, such as horses and cattle. The fact that the bones studied belong to articulated skeletons of the collection of the Museum of Anatomy made it difficult to identify some anatomical structures. This study can help veterinarians in bone health care, animal welfare and comfort of such species present in Brazilian zoological parks.

Aunque los megaherbívoros no pertenecen a la fauna brasileña, se pueden encontrar en zoológicos nacionales, lo que hace importante conocer la anatomía del aparato locomotor para contribuir a la rutina clínica de los zoológicos y de los centros de rehabilitación veterinaria. Por tanto, el objetivo de este estudio fue describir las estructuras anatómicas de los huesos de los miembros torácicos en el hipopótamo común (Hippopotamus amphibius) y el rinoceronte blanco (Ceratotherium simum) y compararlas con las estructuras óseas descritas para otros ungulados. La escápula tenía una apariencia triangular en el hipopótamo común, mientras que en el rinoceronte blanco tenía una apariencia rectangular. El acromion se observó sólo en la escápula del hipopótamo común. El húmero del hipopótamo no tenía el tubérculo intermedio, sólo los tubérculos mayor y menor, a diferencia del rinoceronte que también tiene el tubérculo intermedio. Los dos ejemplares de megamamíferos estudiados tenían una ulna no incorporada al radio y siete huesos del carpo distribuidos en dos filas óseas. En el hipopótamo común se observaron cuatro dedos y cuatro huesos metacarpianos, mientras que en el rinoceronte blanco se encontraron tres dedos, por lo tanto, tres huesos metacarpianos.A pesar de algunas diferencias específicas de cada especie, la anatomía ósea encontrada en los megaherbívoros estudiados fue similar a la descrita para los ungulados domésticos, tal como los caballos y el ganado. El hecho de que los huesos estudiados pertenezcan a esqueletos articulados de la colección del Museo de Anatomía dificultó la identificación de algunas estructuras anatómicas. Este estudio puede ayudar a los veterinarios en el cuidado de la salud ósea, el bienestar animal y el confort de las especies presentes en los parques zoológicos brasileños.

Morphology of the syrinx of three species of birds from Brazilian cerrado (Psittacara leucophthalmus, Rhynchotus rufescens and Cariama cristata): Gross anatomy and light microscopy study.

The aim of this study was to describe the morphology of the trachea and syrinx at macroscopic and light microscopy levels of three species of birds from different orders that inhabit the Brazilian cerrado. For that, five adult specimens (three males and two females of each species) of white-eyed parakeet (Psittacara leucophthalmus), red-winged tinamou (Rhynchotus rufescens) and red-legged seriema (Cariama cristata) were used. The trachea and syrinx of the birds were collected and destined for anatomical and histological studies. The trachea of the studied birds presented an elongated path and originated in the larynx and extended caudally to the syrinx. No sexual dimorphism was observed in the syrinx of the studied species, probably because it is associated with their song, which is very similar between males and females of these species. The findings of this study allowed us to classify the syrinx as tracheal in the white-eyed parakeet and tracheobronchial in the red-winged tinamou and red-legged seriema. In general, the morphological features of the trachea and syrinx were similar to those described for other species of birds, such as the presence of intrinsic and extrinsic syringeal muscles, and the lateral and medial tympaniform membranes, which would represent important anatomical structures in sound production through vibration during expiration and eventual inspiration. The morphological structure of the syrinx in the three avian species of the Brazilian cerrado is consistent with the ability of these avian species to perform a potential vocalization, especially the red-legged seriema that emits characteristic sounds very loud and can carry several kilometres.

Computed tomography and anatomy of the abdominal structures in the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla).

The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is the largest of the Neotropical vermilinguans. This animal is the second mammal most frequently run over on the roads of Cerrado biome, Brazil. Therefore, it is pivotal to know the anatomy of this species to contribute to the clinical care of these animals. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify the anatomical structures in the abdominal region of the giant anteater using computed tomography (CT). For this, the tomographic analysis was performed in sequential order in the craniocaudal direction in five giant anteaters. Moreover, four giant anteater corpses were used for anatomical studies, where two corpses were sectioned in cross sections of approximately 3 cm each, and two animals were dissected to identify the abdominal organs. The association between CT and anatomical study allowed the visualization of anatomical structures found in the abdominal cavity, such as the topographic anatomy facilitates the identification of organs on CT images. The findings of this study demonstrated that CT is a good technique to provide detailed information about the anatomical structures in the abdominal cavity and that this study can be used as CT and anatomical reference for veterinarians who care for wild animals.

Mandibular morphometry applied to local anaesthetic blockage in the capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris).

Capybaras have been victims of collisions against vehicles, which can result in fractures of the teeth and mandible. Then, a local anaesthetic block of the inferior alveolar and mental nerves is important for performing therapeutic procedures in the oral cavity of these rodents. Thus, the aim of this study was to describe the mandibular morphometry of the capybara with emphasis on the establishment of anatomic references for anaesthetic block of the inferior alveolar and mental nerves. For this, mandibles from eight young and adult capybaras were used. Radiography and morphometry of the capybara hemimandible were performed. The mandibular foramen had a dorsoventral diameter of 2.1 mm in young and 2.2 mm in adult capybaras, and it was situated ventrally to the third molar tooth. For extraoral block of the inferior alveolar nerve, the needle should be introduced obliquely 63.5 and 77.4 mm from the angular process in young and adult capybaras, respectively. In another extraoral approach, the needle should be introduced perpendicularly 20.8 mm in young and 26.3 mm in adult animals from the ventral margin of the capybara mandible. For blocking only the mental nerve, the needle should be inserted perpendicularly from the interalveolar margin, 10.7 and 11.5 mm in the young and adult capybaras, respectively. The findings of this study suggest that the age group should be taken into account when performing the anaesthetic block of the inferior alveolar and mental nerves in capybaras.

Morphology and immunolocalization of aquaporins 1 and 9 in the agouti (Dasyprocta azarae) testis excurrent ducts.

This study investigated the morphology and immunoexpression of aquaporins (AQPs) 1 and 9 in the rete testis, efferent ducts, epididymis, and vas deferens in the Azara's agouti (Dasyprocta azarae). For this purpose, ten adult sexually mature animals were used in histologic and immunohistochemical analyses. The Azara's agouti rete testis was labyrinthine and lined with simple cubic epithelium. Ciliated and non-ciliated cells were observed in the epithelium of the efferent ducts. The epididymal cellular population was composed of principal, basal, apical, clear, narrow, and halo cells. The epithelium lining of vas deferens was composed of the principal and basal cells. AQPs 1 and 9 were not expressed in the rete testis. Positive reaction to AQP1 was observed at the luminal border of non-ciliated cells of the efferent ducts, and in the peritubular stroma and blood vessels in the epididymis, and vas deferens. AQP9 was immunolocalized in the epithelial cells in the efferent ducts, epididymis and vas deferens. The morphology of Azara's agouti testis excurrent ducts is similar to that reported for other rodents such as Cuniculus paca. The immunolocalization results of the AQPs suggest that the expression of AQPs is species-specific due to differences in localization and expression when compared to studies in other mammals species. The knowledge about the expression of AQPs in Azara's agouti testis excurrent ducts is essential to support future reproductive studies on this animal, since previous studies show that AQPs may be biomarkers of male fertility and infertility.

Ultrasonography of the gastrointestinal tract of toco toucans (Ramphastos toco).

Baseline data for wall thickness in healthy toucans can be used to diagnose disease in sick individuals. This study aimed to evaluate the use of ultrasonography for the examination of the gastrointestinal tract of healthy toco toucans (Ramphastos toco). Ten non-anaesthetized healthy adult toco toucans were evaluated. Food was withheld for 3 h prior to the ultrasound examination. Longitudinal and transverse images of the gastrointestinal tract were obtained using ventromedian cranial and ventromedian caudal approaches to evaluate the morphology and stratification. The wall thickness of the sections was measured: proventriculus and ventriculus, duodenum, jejunum/ileum, and cloaca. Additionally, the thickness of the mucosal layer of the duodenum and jejunum/ileum was also measured. Subsequently, the ratios of the duodenal wall thickness to the duodenal mucosa layer and the total wall thickness of the jejunum/ileum to the jejunum/ileum layer mucosa were stablished. The wall thickness of the proventriculus was significantly higher than the wall thickness of ventriculus. The wall thickness of the duodenum was significantly higher than the wall thickness of jejunum/ileum. The mean ratios of the duodenal wall thickness to the duodenal mucosa layer and the wall thickness of the jejunum/ileum to the jejunum/ileum layer were 83.15% and 80.07%, respectively. In conclusion, it was possible to assess the stomach and intestines using ultrasound examination in healthy toco toucans, due to their medium body size and no interference by surrounding air sacs.

Computed tomography and cross-sectional anatomy of the head in the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla).

The aim of this study was to identify the anatomical structures in the head region of the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) using computed tomography. For this, three giant anteater corpses, adult and female, were used. The tomographic analysis was performed in sequential order in rostrocaudal direction. Subsequently, the heads of these animals were sectioned in cross sections of approximately 1.5 cm each. Tomographic images were compared with anatomical sections. The association between computed tomography and anatomical sections allowed the visualization of anatomical structures found in the nasal, oral, cranial, pharyngeal and ear cavities. An elongated oral cavity delimited by the elongated mandible was observed. The oral cavity was mainly occupied by a thin and elongated tongue formed mainly by the union of the sternoglossal muscles. The nasopharynx and oropharynx extended up to the neck at the level of the fifth cervical vertebra. The findings of this study suggest that the giant anteater has a head with structures morphologically adapted to its feeding habits, such as an elongated skull, tongue, styloid bones and mandible. In addition, based on the results of this study, it is possible to suggest that computed tomography is a pivotal tool for the veterinary routine of wild animals, since it allowed the identification of anatomical structures found in the head of the giant anteater.

Osteology and radiology of the vertebral column in the white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris).

The white-eared opossum present a higher roadkill number in Brazil, and the vertebral column is often affected when some type of trauma occurs. Thus, this study describes the osteology and radiology of the vertebral column in white-eared opossum to serve as a basis for support in the veterinary clinical care, since the casuistry of care of this marsupial has increased every year. Radiographs of the cervical (C), thoracic (T), lumbar (L), sacral (S) and caudal (Cd) segments of the vertebral column were taken in thirty-five white-eared opossums (Didelphis albiventris). Furthermore, ten opossums without evident vertebral acquired or congenital abnormalities at the radiographic study were selected for anatomical study. Osteology was correlated with the radiographic images. The use of radiographs allowed the identification of congenital and acquired vertebral changes, as well as the identification of anatomical structures, their distribution and morphology and the number of vertebrae. The vertebral formula varied in the white-eared opossum. In 27 of 35 white-eared opossums (77.2%) with normal vertebral morphology, three vertebral formulas were observed: C7/T13/L6/S2 (62.9%), C7/T13/L5/S2 (5.7%) and C7/T13/L7/S2 (8.6%). Most of the specimens presented 27 caudal vertebrae. The anticlinal vertebra was identified as T10 in 77.2% and T11 in 22.8% of opossums. Cervical block vertebra was observed in two animals and sacrocaudal block vertebra in one animal. The haemal arches could be seen from Cd3-Cd4 in 80% and Cd2-Cd3 in 20% of opossums. The white-eared opossum showed a slender vertebral column with a relatively short thoracic region, a relatively long lumbar region and a highly flexible lumbosacral transition, suggesting that this animal is a fast-running and agile opossum. Therefore, these findings may serve as a basis for further research and support the veterinary clinical care, since the casuistry of care for this marsupial has increased every year.

Seasonal variations of male reproductive parameters of Tomodon dorsatus from Southeastern Brazil

ABSTRACT: The morphology of the male reproductive tract of Tomodon dorsatus was described in the austral seasons of the year considering macroscopic and microscopic variables. For this purpose, 56 specimens from the herpetological collection of the Instituto Butantan were used. Fragments of the testes, kidneys and ductus deferens were collected and submitted to histological routine. The peak of the testicular volume was observed in the summer and the epithelium of the seminiferous tubules had higher height in the summer (p=0.001). The testes were active throughout the year, however, the spermiogenesis peaked in the summer. There were spermatozoa in the lumen of the ductus deferens in all seasons of the year. Renal length was higher in autumn (p=0.027), and renal width did not show a significant increase (p=0.237). The diameter and epithelial height of the sexual segment of the kidney (SSK) showed hypertrophy in winter and spring, coinciding with the mating period. Based on findings of this study, we can suggest that, at the population level, the reproductive cycle of T. dorsatus can be considered seasonal semi-synchronous, due to the peak of spermiogenic activity in the hot season, and discontinuous at the individual level.

RESUMO: A morfologia do trato reprodutivo do macho de Tomodon dorsatus foi descrita nas estações climáticas do ano com base em variáveis macroscópicas e microscópicas. Para isto, foram usados 56 espécimes oriundos da coleção herpetológica do Instituto Butantan. Fragmentos dos testículos, rins e ductos deferentes foram coletados e submetidos à rotina histológica. O volume testicular foi maior no verão e o epitélio dos túbulos seminíferos mostrou uma maior altura no verão (p=0.001). Os testículos estavam ativos durante todo o ano, contudo, a espermiogênese foi maior no verão. Espermatozoides foram encontrados no lúmen do ducto deferente em todas as estações do ano. O comprimento renal foi maior no outono (p=0.027), e a largura renal não mostrou um aumento significativo (p=0.237). O diâmetro e a altura epitelial do segmento sexual do rim (SSR) mostrou hipertrofia nas estações inverno e primavera, coincidindo com o período reprodutivo. Com base nestes resultados, pode-se sugerir que, em nível populacional, o ciclo reprodutivo de T. dorsatus possa ser considerado semi-sincrônico sazonal, devido à atividade espermiogênica na estação quente, e descontínuo em nível individual.

Seasonal variations of male reproductive parameters of Tomodon dorsatus from Southeastern Brazil / Variações sazonais dos parâmetros reprodutivos do macho de Tomodon dorsatus do sudeste brasileiro

The morphology of the male reproductive tract of Tomodon dorsatus was described in the austral seasons of the year considering macroscopic and microscopic variables. For this purpose, 56 specimens from the herpetological collection of the "Instituto Butantan" were used. Fragments of the testes, kidneys and ductus deferens were collected and submitted to histological routine. The peak of the testicular volume was observed in the summer and the epithelium of the seminiferous tubules had higher height in the summer (p=0.001). The testes were active throughout the year, however, the spermiogenesis peaked in the summer. There were spermatozoa in the lumen of the ductus deferens in all seasons of the year. Renal length was higher in autumn (p=0.027), and renal width did not show a significant increase (p=0.237). The diameter and epithelial height of the sexual segment of the kidney (SSK) showed hypertrophy in winter and spring, coinciding with the mating period. Based on findings of this study, we can suggest that, at the population level, the reproductive cycle of T. dorsatus can be considered seasonal semi-synchronous, due to the peak of spermiogenic activity in the hot season, and discontinuous at the individual level.(AU)

A morfologia do trato reprodutivo do macho de Tomodon dorsatus foi descrita nas estações climáticas do ano com base em variáveis macroscópicas e microscópicas. Para isto, foram usados 56 espécimes oriundos da coleção herpetológica do Instituto Butantan. Fragmentos dos testículos, rins e ductos deferentes foram coletados e submetidos à rotina histológica. O volume testicular foi maior no verão e o epitélio dos túbulos seminíferos mostrou uma maior altura no verão (p=0.001). Os testículos estavam ativos durante todo o ano, contudo, a espermiogênese foi maior no verão. Espermatozoides foram encontrados no lúmen do ducto deferente em todas as estações do ano. O comprimento renal foi maior no outono (p=0.027), e a largura renal não mostrou um aumento significativo (p=0.237). O diâmetro e a altura epitelial do segmento sexual do rim (SSR) mostrou hipertrofia nas estações inverno e primavera, coincidindo com o período reprodutivo. Com base nestes resultados, pode-se sugerir que, em nível populacional, o ciclo reprodutivo de T. dorsatus possa ser considerado semi-sincrônico sazonal, devido à atividade espermiogênica na estação quente, e descontínuo em nível individual.(AU)

Chronic alcoholism associated with diabetes induced apoptosis in the corpus cavernosum of rats.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of alcohol exposure and diabetes on apoptotic process in the corpus cavernosum. METHODS: Forty eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control, diabetic, alcoholic and diabetic-alcoholic. Samples of the corpus cavernosum were prepared to study protein expression of apoptotic genes (Caspases-3 and 9) by immunohistochemistry and Real-Time PCR. RESULTS: The immunoreactivity of Caspases-3 and -9 was diffuse and higher in the treated groups though there was no significant difference between the experimental groups, only when compared with the control group. An increase was observed in the gene expression of Caspases-9 in the diabetic and ethanol-diabetic groups when compared with control and ethanol groups. CONCLUSIONS: The association of these factors (ethanol and diabetes) probably can affect the apoptosis mechanism in lesions of the cavernous tissue in the rat penis. Both gene and protein expression of Caspase-9 in diabetic and ethanol-diabetic groups suggest the involvement of the apoptosis cascade from this study model.

Computed tomographic and radiologic anatomy of the lower respiratory tract in the red-foot tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria) / Anatomia radiológica e por tomografia computadorizada do trato respiratório inferior no jabuti-piranga (Chelonoidis carbonaria)

The diagnosis of several diseases in chelonians is a challenge in the veterinary clinic, because a detailed physical examination with auscultation and palpation is difficult due the presence of carapace and plastron. Imaging analysis such as radiography and computed tomography (CT) have been shown to be beneficial for diagnosis, prognosis and treatment in numerous animal species. Thus, this study aimed to identify and describe the structures of the lower respiratory tract in red-foot tortoises, by computed tomography, radiography and gross anatomy in twelve red-foot tortoises (Chelonoidis carbonaria), adults and of both sexes. The lower respiratory tract in these animals comprised the larynx, trachea, bronchi and the lungs. The presence of epiglottic cartilage was not observed in the animals studied. CT allowed the observation of the intrapulmonary part of the bronchi, which was accompanied by large intrapulmonary blood vessels. The lungs presented a reticulated parenchyma, without lobulations. Each lung had a small chamber located near the cranial and caudal poles. These structures were identified in CT and 3D CT reconstructions and these could suggest that these chambers could be non-respiratory structures, and could be comparable to the air sacs of birds. This study establishes normal CT anatomy of the lower respiratory tract of the red-foot tortoise; and may be used as a reference in the assessment of respiratory disorders in this tortoise.(AU)

O diagnóstico de diversas afecções em quelônios é um desafio para a clínica veterinária, já que um exame físico detalhado com auscultação e palpação é difícil devido à presença da carapaça e do plastrão. A radiografia e a tomografia computadorizada (TC) tem se mostrado benéficas para o diagnóstico, prognóstico e tratamento em muitas espécies animais. Assim, este estudo teve por objetivo identificar e descrever as estruturas do trato respiratório inferior no jabuti-piranga por meio da tomografia computadorizada, radiografia e anatomia em 12 jabutis-piranga (Chelonoidis carbonara), adultos e de ambos os sexos. Nos animais estudados, o trato respiratório inferior consistiu da laringe, traqueia, brônquios e os pulmões. A cartilagem epiglote não foi observada. A TC permitiu a observação da parte intrapulmonar dos brônquios, a qual estava acompanhada dos vasos sanguíneos intrapulmonares. Os pulmões possuíam um parênquima reticulado, sem lobações. Cada pulmão tinha uma pequena câmara localizada junto aos pólos cranial e caudal. Estas estruturas foram identificadas na TC e na reconstrução 3D a partir da TC e poderiam ser estruturas não-respiratórias, podendo ser comparadas aos sacos aéreos das aves. Este estudo identificou a anatomia normal por meio da TC do trato respiratório inferior do jabuti-piranga, o que pode ser usado como referência para diagnóstico de desordens respiratórias nesta espécie.(AU)

Morphological and molecular analysis of apoptosis in the corpus cavernosum of rats submitted to a chronic alcoholism model.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of chronic alcoholism on morphometry and apoptosis mechanism and correlate with miRNA-21 expression in the corpus cavernosum of rats. METHODS: Twenty-four rats were divided into two experimental groups: Control (C) and Alcoholic group (A). After two weeks of an adaptive phase, rats from group A received only ethanol solution (20%) during 7 weeks. The morphometric and caspase-3 immunohistochemistry analysis were performed in the corpus cavernosum. The miRNA-21 expression was analyzed in blood and cavernous tissue. RESULTS: Chronic ethanol consumption decreased cavernosal smooth muscle area of alcoholic rats. The protein expression of caspase 3 in the corpus cavernosum was higher in A compared to the C group. There was no difference in the expression of miRNA-21 in serum and cavernous tissue between the groups. CONCLUSION: Chronic ethanol consumption reduced smooth muscle area and increased caspase 3 in the corpus cavernosum of rats, without altered serum and cavernosal miR-21 gene expression.

Blood supply and arteriography of the pelvic limb of the Southern caracara (Caracara plancus) and great egret (Ardea alba).

The aim of this study was to compare the arterial vascularization of the pelvic limb between southern caracara (Caracara plancus) and great egret (Ardea alba) by dissection and radiographic examinations. Five specimens of caracaras (three males and two females), and seven great egrets (five males and two females) were used. Barium sulphate and latex suspension were injected into the left ventricle of the birds. The radiographs were taken with the pelvic limbs in the ventrodorsal, dorsoplantar, mediolateral and lateromedial recumbency. Thereafter, the material was fixed in a 10% solution of formaldehyde and dissected. The pelvic limb received its arterial supply from two main vessels, the ischiatic and external iliac arteries. The ischiatic artery presented to be the principal artery of pelvic limb in the caracara and great egret. Several branches arised from the ischiatic and external iliac arteries were described. No gender differences were observed in both species. The caracara and great egret showed arteries similar to those reported for the ostrich and domestic fowl. According to the results of this study, it is suggested that the caracara has a pelvic limb with more arterial branches and larger arterial diameter than the great egret, which is probably related to the specific behaviour of these birds, since the caracara is a bird that exercise more their pelvic limbs to capture its prey when compared with the great egret.

Morphometric analysis and pattern of protein and gene expression of apoptosis in focal cerebral ischemia in rats and the neuroprotetive action of hypothermia and ketoprofen / Análisis morfométrico y modelo de expresión de proteína y genes de apoptosis en isquemia cerebral focal en ratas y la acción neuroprotectora de hipotermia y ketoprofeno

This study aimed to investigate the morphometric and the pattern of protein and gene expression related to the extrinsic apoptotic pathway in experimental focal cerebral ischemia and the hole of neuroprotection with hypothermia and ketoprofen. For this analysis, 120 rats were randomly divided into 3 groups (20 animals each): control - no surgery (20 animals); sham - simulation of surgery (20 animals); ischemic - focal ischemia for 1 hour, without reperfusion (80 animals) and divided into four subgroups with 20 animals each: ischemic + intraischemic hypothermia; ischemic + previous intravenous ketoprofen, and ischemic + hypothermia and ketoprofen. The infarct volume was measured using morphometric analysis of infarct areas defined by triphenyl tetrazolium chloride and the patterns of expression of the apoptosis genes (Fas, c-Flip, caspase-8 and caspase-3) and the apoptosis protein caspase-3 were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Hypo expression of genes of extrinsic pathway of apoptosis was observed: Fas receptor, c-Flip and caspase-8 in the ischemics areas. Increases in the gene and protein caspase-3 in the ischemic areas were also observed, and these increases were reduced by hypothermia and ketoprofen, also noted in the morphometric study. The caspases-3 increase suggests that this gene plays an important role in apoptosis, probably culminating in cell death and that the neuroprotective effect of hypothermia and ketoprofen is involved.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar la morfometría y el patrón de expresión de proteínas y genes relacionados con la vía apoptótica extrínseca en la isquemia cerebral focal experimental y el agujero de neuroprotección con hipotermia y ketoprofeno. Se dividieron aleatoriamente 120 ratas en 3 grupos (20 animales cada uno): control - sin cirugía (20 animales); simulación - simulación de cirugía (20 animales); isquemia isquemia focal durante 1 hora, sin reperfusión (80 animales) y dividida en cuatro subgrupos con 20 animales cada uno: isquemia + hipotermia intraisquémica; isquemia + ketoprofeno intravenoso previo, e isquemia + hipotermia y ketoprofeno. El volumen del infarto se midió utilizando un análisis morfométrico de áreas de infarto definidas por cloruro de trifenil tetrazolio y los patrones de expresión de los genes de apoptosis (Fas, c-Flip, caspase-8 y caspase-3) y la proteína de apoptosis caspase-3 fueron evaluados por PCR cuantitativa en tiempo real e inmunohistoquímica, respectivamente. Se observó hipoexpresión de genes de la vía extrínseca de la apoptosis: receptor Fas, c-Flip y caspasa-8 en las áreas isquémicas. También se observaron aumentos en el gen y la proteína caspasa-3 en las áreas isquémicas y estos aumentos se redujeron por hipotermia y ketoprofeno, también observado por estudio morfométrico. El aumento de caspasas-3 sugiere que este gen tiene un papel importante en la apoptosis, y probable causa de muerte celular, involucrando el efecto neuroprotector de la hipotermia y el ketoprofeno.

Anatomy of the skull in the capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) using radiography and 3D computed tomography.

The capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are the largest rodent found throughout South America and are present in almost all the Brazilian territory, however, still lack basic descriptions about the species, such as about their cranial anatomy. This study was carried out to investigate the anatomical features in the capybara skull. Eight skulls and two heads, without sexual distinction, were used for the osteological, radiographic and tomographic identification of their structures. The skull of the capybara could be divided into a neurocranium and a viscerocranium. The capybara had a more robust and rectangular skull, elongated face caudally, thinned in the nasal region and slightly convex in the parietal region. The zygomatic arch was expanded and wide, the orbit had a circular shape, the infraorbital foramen was well developed, external acoustic meatus and tympanic bulla were relatively small, and the paracondylar process was large. These anatomical characteristics are compatible with the eating habit and semi-aquatic life of capybaras, which can be compared with characteristics reported for animals of similar habits. The radiographic image allowed to identify structures such as the frontal sinus, whereas 3D tomographic reconstruction was essential to have a spatial view of the skull of the capybara.

Maternal Protein Restriction Modulates Angiogenesis and AQP9 Expression Leading to a Delay in Postnatal Epididymal Development in Rat.

The maternal nutritional status is essential to the health and well-being of the fetus. Maternal protein restriction during the perinatal stage causes sperm alterations in the offspring that are associated with epididymal dysfunctions. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor, VEGFr-2, as well as aquaporins (AQPs) are important regulators of angiogenesis and the epididymal microenvironment and are associated with male fertility. We investigated the effects of maternal protein restriction on epididymal angiogenesis and AQP expression in the early stages of postnatal epididymal development. Pregnant rats were divided into two experimental groups that received either a normoprotein (17% protein) or low-protein diet (6% protein) during gestation and lactation. At postnatal day (PND)7 and PND14, male offspring were euthanized, the epididymides were subjected to morphometric and microvascular density analyses and to VEGF-A, VEGF-r2, AQP1 and AQP9 expression analyses. The maternal low-protein diet decreased AQP9 and VEGFr-2 expression, decreased epididymal microvascularity and altered the morphometric features of the epididymal epithelium; no changes in AQP1 expression were observed at the beginning of postnatal epididymal development. Maternal protein restriction alters microvascularization and affects molecules involved in the epidydimal microenvironment, resulting in morphometric alterations related to a delay in the beginning of epididymis postnatal development.