Altered luteal expression patterns of genomic and non-genomic progesterone receptors in bitches at different reproductive states.

The binding of steroid hormones to their specific receptors is necessary to exert their effects on target cells. Progesterone (P4), a steroid hormone, carries out its effects through both genomic and non-genomic (the cell membrane-associated) receptors. This study aimed to ascertain luteal expression patterns of genomic and non-genomic progesterone receptors in bitches in physiological (early dioestrus and early pregnant) and pathological (pyometra) reproductive states. Luteal tissue was collected from the bitches at early dioestrus (ED, n = 5), early pregnant (EP, n = 5), and pyometra (PY, n = 5). The expression profiles of Steroidogenic Acute Regulator Protein (STAR), Progesterone Receptor (PGR), Membrane Progestin Receptors (PAQR5, PAQR7 and PAQR8), and Progesterone Membrane Components (PGMRC1 and PGMRC2) were examined at the mRNA levels using Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). Protein levels of PGR, PGMRC1 and PGMRC2 were detected by western blotting (WB). The STAR expression was found in all groups, with a statistical difference observed between EP and PY groups (P < 0.05). The protein level of PGR was determined to be highest in the EP group and lowest in the PY group. The expression of PAQR8 increased in the EP group (P < 0.05). The PAQR5 exhibited high expression in the EP group and low expression in the PY group (P < 0.05). PGRMC1 was more elevated in the EP group and lower in the PY group (P < 0.05). Protein levels of PGMRC1 and PGMRC2 were also observed at the highest expression in EP group. According to the altered expression profiles for examined receptors, we suggest that those progesterone receptors have roles in early pregnancy or pyometra in bitches.

A Precision Assessment of a Point-of-Care Immunological Analyzer for Swift Progesterone Measurement and Guidance for Determining the Optimal Breeding Time in Bitches.

The measurement of serum progesterone often varies due to different laboratory methodologies and individual canine characteristics. In this investigation, serum progesterone outcomes obtained from a commercial point-of-care immunological analyzer, designed for efficient serum progesterone assessment in bitches, were compared with results derived from chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay from reference laboratories in Thailand. Our thorough documentation encompassed various parameters: mean, standard deviation, 95% confidence interval, and minimum and maximum serum progesterone concentration values. Additionally, we meticulously recorded the Pearson's correlation coefficient, Lin's concordance correlation coefficient, and the bias correction factor. Interestingly, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the means obtained by the point-of-care immunological analyzer and chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. The Pearson's correlation coefficient between the point-of-care immunological analyzer and chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay stood at 0.957, with Lin's concordance correlation coefficient for point-of-care immunological analyzer recorded as 0.949. Furthermore, the bias correction factor was established at 0.991. This investigation followed established chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay guidelines, modified to incorporate the mean and 95% confidence interval as criteria for optimal breeding time using the point-of-care immunological analyzer. In conclusion, the commercial point-of-care immunological analyzer emerges as a valuable tool, aiding in precisely determining the optimal timing for natural mating or artificial insemination in bitches.

In vivo embryo development in bitches inseminated laparoscopically after ovulation time estimated based on a single progesterone determination.

Logistic and economical limitations are often the causes of dog owners not accurately monitoring the estrous cycle and the optimal insemination time. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vivo early embryonic development in bitches, after the analysis of sequential vaginal cytologies associated to single progesterone measurement and single laparoscopic insemination with high quality semen (fresh and with high spermatozoa concentration) or low-quality semen (frozen/thawed and with low spermatozoa concentration) at 48 h post- ovulation time predicted on a single progesterone measurement. Ten bitches were inseminated with 250 x 106 fresh spermatozoa (80% motility), and ten with 80 x 106 frozen/thawed spermatozoa (60% motility) in the cranial part of each uterine horn. Seven days later, ovariohysterectomy was performed and the oviducts and uterine horns and body were flushed to recover embryos and unfertilized oocytes. In 80% of the bitches inseminated with fresh and 50% of bitches inseminated with frozen/thawed semen, embryos at 2 to 8 cells stage were recovered mostly from the, oviducts. This study indicates that pregnancies can be obtained with a single laparoscopic intrauterine insemination after single serum progesterone measurement, although with a low number of embryos. This result should be taken into account in case economic or logistic restrictions that affect the possibility of owners to plan an accurate monitoring of the optimal breeding time using fresh and frozen semen.

Comparison of preoperative fluid therapy protocols associated with inhalational or total intravenous anesthesia for anesthetic procedures in dogs with sepsis.

This randomized clinical trial aimed to evaluate different fluid therapy protocols associated with inhalational or total intravenous anesthesia in the cardiorespiratory stability of bitches with sepsis subjected to a surgical procedure to control the infectious focus. Thirty-two bitches diagnosed with pyometra and sepsis and treated at the University Veterinary Hospital between 2018 and 2019 were recruited. After admission, diagnosis, clinical, and laboratory evaluation, patients were randomly distributed into the following groups: propofol 5 (P[5]: preoperative restrictive fluid therapy-5mL/kg/h and intravenous general anesthesia); propofol 10 (P[10]: preoperative liberal fluid therapy-10mL/kg/h and intravenous general anesthesia); and isoflurane 5 (I[5]: preoperative restrictive fluid therapy-5mL/kg/h and inhalational general anesthesia). Lactate on admission (LAC1) and release (LAC2), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), rectal temperature (RT), oxygen saturation (SpO2), and carbon dioxide extraction rate (EtCO2) were analyzed at PRE, T10, T20, T30, T40, T50, TEXT, and TDIS. Clearance of 20% of lactate occurred in 18 dogs, with the P[10] group displaying the best performance. There was no statistical difference in vasopressor requirements among the groups. Liberal fluid therapy showed greater cardiovascular stability than restrictive therapy in the perioperative period. Regarding general anesthesia, isoflurane showed greater cardiorespiratory stability than propofol during anesthetic maintenance. In conclusion, although the three proposed protocols are safe and there is no difference in their superiority, some observed changes may be relevant and considered when it is possible to individualize the therapy for the patient.

Este ensaio clínico randomizado teve a proposição de avaliar diferentes protocolos de fluidoterapia associados a anestesia inalatória ou total intravenosa, na estabilidade hemodinâmica de cadelas com sepse, submetidas a procedimento cirúrgico, para controle do foco infeccioso. Foram incluídas trinta e duas cadelas, com diagnóstico de piometra e sepse, atendidas em hospital veterinário universitário, no período de 2018 a 2019. Após admissão, diagnóstico, avaliação clínica e laboratoriais, os pacientes foram distribuídos de maneira aleatória nos grupos Propofol 5 (P[5]: fluidoterapia restritiva pré-operatória - 5mL/kg/h e anestesia geral intravenosa), Propofol 10 (P[10]: fluidoterapia liberal pré-operatória - 10mL/kg/h e anestesia geral intravenosa) e Isoflurano 5 (I[5]: fluidoterapia restritiva pré-operatória - 5mL/kg/h e anestesia geral inalatória). Foram analisados lactato na admissão (LAC1) e liberação (LAC2), frequências cardíacas (HR) e respiratória (RR), pressão arterial sistólica (SBP), temperatura retal (RT), saturação de oxigênio (SpO2) e taxa de extração de dióxido de carbono (EtCO2) nos seguintes momentos: PRE, T10, T20, T30, T40, T50, TEXT e TDIS. A depuração de 20% do lactato ocorreu em 18 cães, tendo o grupo P[10] o melhor desempenho. Não houve diferença estatística no requerimento de vasopressores entre os grupos. A fluidoterapia liberal apresentou maior estabilidade cardiovascular quando comparado com a restritiva no período perioperatório. Com relação a anestesia geral, o isoflurano apresentou maior estabilidade cardiorrespiratória que o propofol na manutenção anestésica. Nós concluímos que apesar de os três protocolos propostos serem seguros e sem diferença em superioridade entre eles, algumas alterações observadas podem ser relevantes e ponderadas quando for possível a individualização da terapêutica no paciente.

Analysis of the concentrations of some haematological parameters, C-reactive protein and anti-Müllerian hormone in bitches affected by pyometra.

The work was aimed to research into the vital signs, haematological and biochemical parameters, acute-phase protein concentrations (CRP, albumin), progesterone (PG) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations in bitches with pyometra and their comparison with those in healthy bitches. In addition, the goal of this work was to assess if some of the tested parameters may be used as a biomarker in the diagnostics of pyometra and the monitoring of the postoperative recovery. Forty 3-6-year-old bitches of various breeds were included in the research and allotted to two groups: the control (C, n = 20) and the diseased - bitches diagnosed with pyometra (P, n = 20). Blood samples for the analyses were taken immediately before surgery (0 h), and 12 h, 24 h, 48 h and 72 h after, excepting for AMH and PG concentrations, which were determined only at 0 h. Clinical examination detected significantly higher respiration rates in bitches with pyometra in comparison to healthy ones at all time points, higher heart rates before and 12 h after surgery, and higher body temperature before and 12 h, 48 h and 72 h post operation (p < .01). Significantly higher concentrations of CRP (p < .01) and lower concentrations of albumin were detected in bitches with pyometra in comparison to their healthy counterparts at all time points. Progesterone and AMH concentration analysis immediately before surgery detected significantly higher levels of the hormone in bitches with pyometra than in the control (p < .01). The inflammatory reaction of the endometrium resulted in a significant AMH concentration increase, whilst increased CRP concentrations and lower albumin concentrations throughout the research may be used as biomarkers of proinflammatory activities, that is of the acute-phase response.

Determining the optimal insemination time of bitches / Determinando el momento óptimo de inseminación en perras

Resumen En la actualidad, criar perros requiere una aproximación competente y con base científica. En particular, la elección del momento óptimo de inseminación (tanto natural como artificial) es uno de los factores más importantes para el éxito en el apareamiento o inseminación de perras, y es crucial para problemas de infertilidad. El período de fertilización (tiempo en el cual los ovocitos pueden ser fertilizados) es de 2 a 5 días luego de la ovulación. Por ende, la cópula debería realizarse inmediatamente antes o durante este período. El momento óptimo puede determinarse utilizando varios métodos que estiman el período de fertilidad (cuando la cópula/inseminación tiene máximas chances de concepción). Sin embargo, ninguna de las técnicas diagnósticas es absolutamente confiable, por lo que para un resultado lo más certero posible se recomienda sar varios (dos o tres) estudios. Por ejemplo: contar los días, examen de descarga vulvar y vaginal sumado a frotis y/o vaginoscopía. La cópula control incrementa las chances de concepción, y debe realizarse el día después de la primera cópula. Debe considerarse que el momento de ovulación en la misma perra en distintos celos puede ser diferente. Para perras con problemas de concepción debe usarse el máximo número de métodos con un análisis de intentos pasados fallidos o exitosos. La elección de un método específico implica un aspecto económico, tal como cuando el propietario debe trasladar la perra una larga distancia y necesitan saber la fecha exacta de ovulación.

Abstract Nowadays, breeding dogs requires a competent, science-based approach. In particular, the choice of the optimal insemination time (both natural and artificial) is one of the important factors of successful mating or artificial insemination of bitches and is crucial in the problem of infertility. The period of fertilization (the time when ovicells can be fertilized) is 2-5 days after ovulation. Therefore, mating should be performed immediately before or during this period. The optimal time can be determied using various methods that estimate the period of fertility (when mating/inseminación can lead to conception). However, none of the diagnostic techniques is absolutely reliable, so for the most accurate result, it is recommended to use several (two or three) studies. For example: counting days, assessment of vulvar and vaginal discharge plus smear and/or vaginoscopy. Control mating increases the probability of conception and is usually performed the day after the first mating. It should be considered that the time of ovulation in the same bitch during different heat can be different. For bitches with problems of conception use the maximum number of methods with the analysis of past successful and unsuccessful matings. Choosing a specific method also implies an economic aspect, such as when owners have to carry bitches for a long distance and they need to be sure of the exact date of ovulation.

Short-term effect of ovariohysterectomy on urine serotonin, cortisol, testosterone and progesterone in bitches.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the short-term effect of ovariohysterectomy on urine levels of serotonin and its relation to levels of cortisol, testosterone and progesterone in female dogs. Seven bitches were studied before surgical ovariohysterectomy and then once a week during 4 weeks. Spontaneously voided urine samples were collected and concentration ratios of hormone/creatinine in urine were analysed. RESULTS: The bitches had significantly lower levels of cortisol, testosterone, and progesterone 1 week after ovariohysterectomy compared with before and the levels stayed low throughout the study (P ≤ 0.05). Interestingly, serotonin levels tended to increase 4 weeks after surgery (P = 0.08). A positive correlation between cortisol and progesterone was found before and after surgery. After surgery, serotonin was positively correlated with cortisol and progesterone (P ≤ 0.05).

Vitrification of canine ovarian tissue using the Ovarian Tissue Cryosystem (OTC) device.

The present study evaluated the effect of Ovarian Tissue Cryosystem (OTC) on follicular morphology and density, as well as on stromal cell density of vitrified canine ovarian tissue. Canine ovarian fragments collected from adult female dogs in stages of the random oestrous cycle were fixed (FC, fresh control) or vitrified (VIT) with an OTC device. After vitrification and warming, the fragments were fixed for histological analysis. Overall, the mean percentage of normal pre-antral follicles decreased after vitrification procedure (FC: 74.5% ± 1.6% vs. VIT: 52.05% ± 1.5%). Although the rates of normal primordial (71.1% ± 1.8%) and secondary (0.7% ± 0.4%) follicles vitrified showed a reduction (p < .05), vitrification using OTC showed considerable preservation of follicles, when compared to the fresh control (81.1% ± 1.5% and 2.3% ± 0.6%, respectively). The mean follicular density was maintained after vitrification (FC: 199.65 ± 12.8 vs. VIT: 199.68 ± 10.8), whereas the stromal cell density decreased in the VIT group. Based on the results, we recommend the use of OTC for vitrification of canine ovarian tissue.

Accuracy and precision guidelines for optimal breeding time in bitches using in-house progesterone measurement compared with chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The concentration of serum progesterone is commonly used to determine the optimal mating time in bitches, and to diagnose reproductive-related abnormalities. This study aims to compare the serum progesterone results obtained by rapid fluorescence immunochromatography assay (RFICA) with those obtained by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) from the same serum samples to develop a standard guideline for optimal breeding time. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Serum progesterone levels were measured in 124 bitches using RFICA and CMIA. Simple linear regression and correlation analyses were performed to analyze the data. The percentage difference between the maximum and minimum progesterone values in the same serum sample in the same assay was compared using Wilcoxon's rank-sum test. RESULTS: The present study showed a strong linear dependence of the results obtained by RFICA on those obtained by CMIA as R2=0.8976, with regression coefficient of 0.9474 and p<0.05, including the regression model was CMIA = (0.9483 × RFICA) - 0.761. Moreover, five critical measurement times during estrous in bitches showed statistically significant differences (p<0.05), except at the fertilizable period, which showed a non-significant difference (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that it is presumably acceptable to use the RFICA and CMIA methods interchangeably for quality progesterone measurements in serum samples from bitches. However, when considering the use of the RFICA method, it is advisable to carefully interpret the results and follow the interpretation guidelines. Finally, RFICA in the present study provides a reliable and convenient option for veterinarian practitioners to measure canine progesterone levels in-house.

Effects of Sedation with Medetomidine and Dexmedetomidine on Doppler Measurements of Ovarian Artery Blood Flow in Bitches.

The aim was to evaluate if medetomidine and dexmedetomidine affected arterial ovarian blood flow in dogs. The dogs were randomly assigned to two different groups. In Group 1, medetomidine (10 µg/kg) was administered intramuscularly and, in Group 2, dexmedetomidine (5 µg/kg) was used. After a preliminary exam, arterial blood pressure (BP) was measured and a duplex Doppler ultrasonographic examination of both ovarian arteries was performed. Twenty minutes after the administration of medetomidine or dexmedetomidine, BP and ovarian Doppler ultrasonography were repeated. High quality tracings of ovarian artery flow velocity were obtained in all dogs and Doppler parameters: Peak Systolic Velocity (PSV), End Diastolic Velocity (EDV) and Resistive Index (RI) were measured before and after drug administration in the left (LO) and right (RO) ovaries. PSV and EDV values decreased significantly after drug administration (p < 0.05) compared to the non-sedated values, but no differences were found between the LO and RO (p > 0.05). The RI was not affected by drugs administration in neither of the groups studied (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the administration of medetomidine or dexmedetomidine causes a decrease in blood flow velocity in the ovarian artery and may be a good choice to avoid excessive bleeding prior surgeries in which ovariectomy.

Evaluation of platelet indices and complete blood count in canine mammary tumors

Malignant mammary tumors in humans and bitches cause hematological disorders such as anemia, erythrocytosis, thrombocytosis, hyperproteinemia, and leucopenia. Novel studies have been conducted on the predictive and prognostic values of platelet (PLT) indices in human breast cancer (HBC). However, there is little information about the alterations in hematological parameters in canine mammary tumors (CMTs). The aims of this study were to evaluate the platelet indices and complete blood count (CBC) parameters in bitches with and without mammary tumor and to assess the above mentioned parameters with regard to histological tumor types and grades. A total of 71 bitches were enrolled in this study. The bitches in the study group were divided into 2 groups which consisted of malignant epithelial mammary tumors (group EMT; n = 43) and malignant mixed mammary tumors (group MMT; n = 12). Control group (group C) consisted of clinically and gynaecologically healthy 16 bitches. Blood samples were obtained to perform the CBC and PLT indices analysis. Histopathological examinations were carried out under a light microscope. Histological tumor types and malignancy grades were classified. The bitches with mammary tumor showed significantly increased PLT values and decreased hematocrit (HCT), hemoglobin (HGB) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) values versus the healthy ones, regardless of the tumor type. However, in comparisons with the group C, mean platelet volume (MPV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) values were different only in the group MMT, while plateletcrit (PCT) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) values were different only in the group EMT. Also white blood cell (WBC), PLT and PCT values were higher than the referenced laboratory ranges in grade 3 tumors. In the presented study, MPV was considerably correlated with PLT, platelet distribution width (PDW) and PCT. Also, PCT and PLT had high sensitivity and specificity to distinct EMT and MMT from the healthy bitches. Microcytic and hypochromic anemia occurs due to the decrease in the amount of HGB. Levels of MCV, MCH, and MCHC in the HBC group were reported to be significantly lower than in humans without breast cancer. Although anemia did not occur in EMT and MMT groups, obtained significances in the HCT, HGB, MCV, MCH, and MCHC levels between the bitches with and without mammary tumor were in line with the previous reports. In this study, WBC levels in grade 3 tumors were significantly higher than grade1 tumors (P < 0.05). Whereas levels of WBC in grade 1 and grade 2 tumors were in referenced laboratory ranges, it was higher in grade 3. Increased level of WBC in grade 3 was supposed to be due to the rise in malignancy as previously reported. Thrombocytosis was detected in 48.83% and 41.66% of the bitches in EMT and MMT groups, respectively. The higher percentage of CMTs with thrombocytosis in this study might be due to the difference in referenced upper limit of PLT in previous studies. The elapsed time between tumor formation and clinical presentation could be another influencing factor. Although PLT and PCT values were not significant according to the histological grading in this study, both parameters were found to be higher in grade 3 than the normal reference values. Further studies conducted with higher populations may lead the differences in these parameters to significance. With the support of further studies, alterations in the above mentioned parameters in bitches may contribute in the diagnosis process, management of treatment and may constitute an easy way to have an idea about the prognosis of mammary tumors.(AU)

Gestational echobiometry in brachycephalic bitches using high-definition ultrasonography / Ecobiometria gestacional em cadelas braquicefálicas utilizando ultrassonografia de alta-definição

The objective of the present study was to obtain echobiometric values for the most important canine maternal-fetal tissues using high-definition ultrasonography (HDUS) trying to update the formulas for predicting gestational age. Twelve healthy bitches of brachycephalic breeds weighing 7-13kg and aged one to four years were included. The fetuses were analyzed every day using conventional and high-definition ultrasonography from the eighth day after artificial insemination until the day of delivery, using the ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS ultrasound equipment and specific software. Embryonic and fetal structures; diameter of the embryonic vesicle; length of the embryo; biparietal diameter, abdominal length and kidney height; length of the femur, humerus, scapula, radius, and tibia; thickening of the stomach wall; adrenal length; and cardiac size were measured. These variables were correlated with gestational and adjusted tested according to regression models. The results obtained (P<0.001) for: lateral diameter of the gestational sac (R2=81.8%); length of the embryo (R2=85.7%); biparietal (R2=99.1%) and abdominal diameter (R2=97.2%); thickness of the gastric wall (R2=86.9%); length of the femur (R2=96.6%), radius (R2=97.5%), humerus (R2=96.5%), scapula (R2=95.8%) and tibia (R2=97.3%); kidney length (R2=95.8%) and height (R2=96.0%); adrenal length (R2=89.6%); heart length (R2=93.0%) and height (R2=91.5%) of the canine fetuses showed significant correlation with gestational days. This allowed monitoring fetal growth and estimation of age with high accuracy in different gestational periods.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi obter valores ecobiométricos para os tecidos materno-fetais caninos, usando a ultrassonografia de alta definição (HDUS), desenvolvendo fórmulas para prever a idade gestacional das cadelas. Doze cadelas saudáveis de raças braquicefálicas pesando 7-13kg e com idades entre um e quatro anos foram incluídas. Os fetos foram analisados diariamente com ultrassonografia convencional e de alta definição, do oitavo dia após a inseminação artificial até o dia do parto, utilizando o equipamento de ultrassom ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS e software específico. Estruturas embrionárias e fetais; diâmetro da vesícula embrionária; comprimento do embrião; diâmetro biparietal, comprimento abdominal e altura renal; comprimento do fêmur, úmero, escápula, rádio e tíbia; espessamento da parede do estômago; comprimento adrenal; e tamanho cardíaco foram medidos. Essas variáveis foram correlacionadas com o teste gestacional e ajustado de acordo com os modelos de regressão. Os resultados obtidos (P<0,001) para: diâmetro lateral do saco gestacional (R2=81,8%); comprimento do embrião (R2=85,7%); diâmetro biparietal (R2=99,1%) e abdominal (R2=97,2%); espessura da parede gástrica (R2=86,9%); comprimento do fêmur (R2=96,6%), rádio (R2=97,5%), úmero (R2=96,5%), escápula (R2=95,8%) e tíbia (R2=97,3%); comprimento do rim (R2=95,8%) e altura (R2=96,0%); comprimento adrenal (R2=89,6%); o comprimento do coração (R2=93,0%) e a altura (R2=91,5%) dos fetos caninos apresentaram correlação significativa com os dias gestacionais. Isso permitiu monitorar o crescimento fetal e estimar a idade com alta precisão em diferentes períodos gestacionais.(AU)

Gestational echobiometry in brachycephalic bitches using high-definition ultrasonography

ABSTRACT: The objective of the present study was to obtain echobiometric values for the most important canine maternal-fetal tissues using high-definition ultrasonography (HDUS) trying to update the formulas for predicting gestational age. Twelve healthy bitches of brachycephalic breeds weighing 7-13kg and aged one to four years were included. The fetuses were analyzed every day using conventional and high-definition ultrasonography from the eighth day after artificial insemination until the day of delivery, using the ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS ultrasound equipment and specific software. Embryonic and fetal structures; diameter of the embryonic vesicle; length of the embryo; biparietal diameter, abdominal length and kidney height; length of the femur, humerus, scapula, radius, and tibia; thickening of the stomach wall; adrenal length; and cardiac size were measured. These variables were correlated with gestational and adjusted tested according to regression models. The results obtained (P 0.001) for: lateral diameter of the gestational sac (R2=81.8%); length of the embryo (R2=85.7%); biparietal (R2=99.1%) and abdominal diameter (R2=97.2%); thickness of the gastric wall (R2=86.9%); length of the femur (R2=96.6%), radius (R2=97.5%), humerus (R2=96.5%), scapula (R2=95.8%) and tibia (R2=97.3%); kidney length (R2=95.8%) and height (R2=96.0%); adrenal length (R2=89.6%); heart length (R2=93.0%) and height (R2=91.5%) of the canine fetuses showed significant correlation with gestational days. This allowed monitoring fetal growth and estimation of age with high accuracy in different gestational periods.

RESUMO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi obter valores ecobiométricos para os tecidos materno-fetais caninos, usando a ultrassonografia de alta definição (HDUS), desenvolvendo fórmulas para prever a idade gestacional das cadelas. Doze cadelas saudáveis de raças braquicefálicas pesando 7-13kg e com idades entre um e quatro anos foram incluídas. Os fetos foram analisados diariamente com ultrassonografia convencional e de alta definição, do oitavo dia após a inseminação artificial até o dia do parto, utilizando o equipamento de ultrassom ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS e software específico. Estruturas embrionárias e fetais; diâmetro da vesícula embrionária; comprimento do embrião; diâmetro biparietal, comprimento abdominal e altura renal; comprimento do fêmur, úmero, escápula, rádio e tíbia; espessamento da parede do estômago; comprimento adrenal; e tamanho cardíaco foram medidos. Essas variáveis foram correlacionadas com o teste gestacional e ajustado de acordo com os modelos de regressão. Os resultados obtidos (P 0,001) para: diâmetro lateral do saco gestacional (R2=81,8%); comprimento do embrião (R2=85,7%); diâmetro biparietal (R2=99,1%) e abdominal (R2=97,2%); espessura da parede gástrica (R2=86,9%); comprimento do fêmur (R2=96,6%), rádio (R2=97,5%), úmero (R2=96,5%), escápula (R2=95,8%) e tíbia (R2=97,3%); comprimento do rim (R2=95,8%) e altura (R2=96,0%); comprimento adrenal (R2=89,6%); o comprimento do coração (R2=93,0%) e a altura (R2=91,5%) dos fetos caninos apresentaram correlação significativa com os dias gestacionais. Isso permitiu monitorar o crescimento fetal e estimar a idade com alta precisão em diferentes períodos gestacionais.

A Mapping Study of Veterinary Literature on Perceptions and Attitudes of Female Canine Spaying.

This is a mapping study conducted to evaluate the characteristics of where content that engages in perspectives or attitudes on female dog spaying is published. Three databases, CAB Direct, PubMed, and Scopus, were systematically searched. There were 84 out of 642 papers identified and screened for relevance on attitudes or perceptions on female canine spaying. These 84 articles were then examined for recurring authors, institutional representation, and publisher information. Additionally, information regarding the population being addressed, veterinarian or client, was noted with most literature addressing the veterinary perspective. Many important articles were published in a wide array of journals from many countries, which suggests the importance of not only browsing journals but also searching for relevant literature in databases like CAB Abstracts and MEDLINE.

Expression of Periostin in Mammary Cancer Cells of Female Dogs.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Periostin (POSTN) has a significant role in proliferation and migration of tumour cells as well as tumour progression. This study aimed to determinate POSTN expression in cancer cells in malignant and benign tumours of the mammary gland in female dogs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All together 83 cancers, 24 adenomas and 7 unchanged fragments of the mammary glands of bitches were investigated. Immunohistochemistry was performed using anti-POSTN, Ki-67 and HER2 antibodies. RESULTS: POSTN expression was observed in cancer cells in 31.3% of malignancies and 12.5% of benign tumours. A significantly positive correlation between expression of POSTN in cancer cells and the degree of histological malignancy, expression of Ki-67 antigen and expression of POSTN in CAFs was found. CONCLUSION: The obtained results suggest the possible participation of POSTN in the process of carcinogenesis and progression of mammary tumors in bitches.

Relationship of obesity with clinical and laboratory changes in female dogs with mammary neoplasia / Relação da obesidade com alterações clínicas e laboratoriais em cadelas com neoplasia mamária

Obesity may be associated with the onset of mammary tumors in women. In companion animals, these data are still scarce, mainly associating the clinic of the patient with laboratory and histological findings. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and laboratory aspects of female dogs with mammary neoplasia, investigating whether they are related to obesity. Four groups of spayed or non-spayed female dogs were studied, divided into (G1) female dogs without mammary tumor and normal body condition score (BCS), (G2) female dogs without mammary tumor and obese, (G3) female dogs with mammary tumor and normal BCS and (G4) female dogs with mammary tumor and obese. BCS, canine body mass index (CBMI), blood count, glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides and cytopathological and histopathological examinations were evaluated. Mixed-breed animals were the most prevalent in this study (67.5%). There was a limitation regarding the use of CBMI related to body proportionality. Considering the 28 tumors evaluated, carcinoma in mixed tumor was the most prevalent malignant histological type, while adenomyoepithelioma was the most prevalent benign histological type. It was possible to conclude that obesity was not related to clinical and laboratory changes in the female dogs affected with mammary neoplasias. In addition, no relationship was noted between BCS and CBMI with the histological type or malignancy of mammary neoplasia, since the malignant histological types were the most prevalent tumors in both the ideal score group and the overweight to obese group.(AU)

A obesidade pode estar associada ao aparecimento de tumores mamários em mulheres. Em animais de companhia, esse dado ainda é escasso, principalmente associando a clínica da paciente aos achados laboratoriais e histológicos. Este estudo objetivou avaliar os aspectos clínicos e laboratoriais de cadelas com neoplasia mamária, investigando se estão relacionadas à obesidade. Foram estudados quatro grupos de cadelas castradas ou não castradas, divididas em (G1) cadelas sem tumor de mama e Escore de Condição Corporal normal (BCS), (G2) cadelas sem tumor de mama e obesa, (G3) cadelas com tumor de mama e ECC normal e (G4) cadelas com tumor de mama e obesa. Foram avaliados o Escore de Condição Corporal (ECC), Índice de Massa Corporal Canina (IMC), hemograma, glicose, colesterol total, triglicerídeos e exames citopatológicos e histopatológicos. Os animais de raça mista foram os mais prevalentes neste estudo (67,5%). Houve uma limitação quanto ao uso do IMC relacionado à proporcionalidade corporal. Considerando os 28 tumores avaliados, o carcinoma em tumor misto foi o tipo histológico maligno mais prevalente, enquanto o adenomioepitelioma foi o tipo histológico benigno mais prevalente. Foi possível concluir que a obesidade não esteve relacionada a alterações clínicas e laboratoriais nas cadelas acometidas por neoplasias mamárias. Além disso, não foi observada relação entre BCS e CBMI com o tipo histológico ou malignidade das neoplasias mamárias, uma vez que os tipos histológicos malignos foram os tumores mais prevalentes no grupo escore ideal e no grupo com sobrepeso e obesidade.(AU)

Risk factors associated with mammary tumors in female dogs / Fatores de risco para tumores mamários em cadelas de Uberlândia e Patos de Minas, Minas Gerais

Mammary tumors in female dogs are the most frequent and corresponds to half of the canine tumors. The objectives of this study were to determine the risk factors associated with the occurrence of mammary tumors in female dogs and to evaluate the macroscopic characteristics of these neoformations, using 386 dogs from the "Outubro Rosa Pets" events done within the cities of Uberlândia and Patos de Minas, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, in 2015 (n=194), 2016 (n=105) and 2017 (n=87). For the determination of risk factors, the binary logistic regression test (P<0.05) was performed. The occurrence of mammary tumors was 23.6% (91/386). The significant risk factors identified were increased age (P<0.001), overweight (P=0.048) and non-castration (P<0.001) with a chance of, respectively, 1.6, 2.3 and 9.3 times for the development of mammary tumors. In dogs with mammary tumors (n=91), 153 lesions were present, of which 39 female dogs had two or more lesions (42.8%). Most of the lesions were at the caudal abdominal (M4) and inguinal (M5) mammary glands (60.13%, 92/153). Relative to the size of the lesions, it was observed that in 78% of the female dogs the lesions were determined asT1 (<3cm), 16.5% were T2 (3-5cm) and 5.5% T3 (>5cm). At least 15.4% (14/91) of the dogs had one of the regional lymph nodes increased. In conclusion, the occurrence of mammary tumors in the evaluated population was 23.6% and that age, overweight and non-realization of ovariohysterectomy are risk factors associated with the development of mammary tumors.(AU)

Em cadelas os tumores mamários são os mais frequentes e correspondem a aproximadamente metade dos tumores em cães. Este estudo teve os objetivos de determinar os fatores de risco envolvidos na ocorrência de tumores mamários em cadelas e avaliar as características macroscópicas destas neoformações, utilizando 386 cadelas do evento "Outubro Rosa Pets" nos municípios de Uberlândia e Patos de Minas, Minas Gerais, Brasil, em 2015 (n=194), 2016 (n=105) e 2017 (n=87). Para a determinação dos fatores de risco utilizou-se o teste de Regressão logística binária (P<0,05). A ocorrência de tumores mamários foi de 23,6% (91/386). Os fatores de risco significativos identificados foram aumento da idade (P<0,001), sobrepeso (P=0,048) e não-castração (P<0,001) com a chance de, respectivamente, 1,6, 2,3 e 9,3 vezes de desenvolvimento de tumores mamários. Nas cadelas com tumores mamários (n=91), constatou-se a presença de 153 lesões, sendo que 39 cadelas apresentaram duas ou mais lesões (42,8%). A maioria das lesões localizaram-se nas mamas abdominais caudais (M4) e inguinais (M5) (60,13%; 92/153). Em relação ao tamanho das lesões, observou-se que 78% das cadelas eram T1 (<3cm), 16,5% T2 (3-5cm) e 5,5% T3 (>5cm). Pelo menos 15,4% (14/91) das cadelas apresentaram um dos linfonodos regionais aumentados. Conclui-se que a ocorrência dos tumores mamários na população avaliada foi de 23,6% e que a idade, sobrepeso e não ovariohisterectomia são fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de tumores mamários.(AU)

Prevalence of subclinical uterine pathologies diagnosed by biopsy and cytological and bacteriological findings in cyclic bitches.

The study was performed on 45 bitches in different cycle phases that were divided into the following groups: anoestrus (I, n=15), heat (pro-oestrus (n=7) or estrous (n=8) (II, n=15) and metestrus (III, n=15). Moreover, all experimental dogs were grouped according to their age: younger than 5 years (Y, n=35) and older than 5 years (O, n=10). The endometrial status was evaluated using cytological, bacteriological and biopsy samples obtained after ovariohysterectomy. The main uterine pathology diagnosed by biopsy was endometritis, since 40%-66% of bitches, independent of the experimental group, developed this condition. No significant differences were found among the cycle phase groups (p>0.05). By contrast, significant differences were found in the age groups; the prevalence of this pathology was higher in older bitches (p=0.0019). The general prevalence of cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) and a normal endometrium (NE) was lower (6.7-26.7% vs 26.7-53.3%) in all groups, and no statistically significant differences were found between certain groups (p>0.05). The percentage of polymorphonuclear neutrophilic leukocytes (PMNs) in endometrial cytology was generally low (⟨ 2%) and did not differ significantly among the experimental groups (p=0.142). In general, a low degree of correlation was found between the diagnostic results by endometrial cytology and biopsy (Kappa Coefficient= 0.046). Positive bacteriological findings were found in approximately 50% of the bitches, independent of the cycle phase and health status of the endometrium. No correlation was found between the bacteriological and histopathological findings (p=0.883). In conclusion, uterine cytology is not a reliable diagnostic method to detect the subclinical inflammatory and degenerative uterine pathologies in cyclic bitches.

Protein-to-creatinine urinary in the early diagnosis of renal injury in canine pyometra / Relação proteína-creatinina-urinária no diagnóstico precoce de lesão renal em cadelas com piometra

Kidney disease that affects bitches with pyometra may lead patients to develop chronic renal failure even after pyometra treatment. Therefore, several studies have sought to clarify the gaps in the understanding of the pathogenesis of renal injury in pyometra. Identification of early detection markers for renal damage, which can predict and identify the prognosis of the disease, is very important. Proteinuria analysis can diagnose kidney damage, since proteins such as albumin are not filtered through the glomerulus and those that undergo glomerular filtration are almost completely reabsorbed by tubular cells. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the urinary protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPC) can detect renal injury in bitches with pyometra before development of azotemia. For this, 44 bitches with pyometra were divided into two groups: bitches with azotemic piometra (A, n=15, creatinine >1.7) and bitches with non-azotemic pyometra (NA, n=29). The two groups were compared to the control group (CG, n=12), which had no signs of systemic disease. All animals underwent blood and urine tests. Leukocytosis was more evident in bitches in the A group than in the other groups. This shows that the inflammatory response may be associated with the pathogenesis of renal injury. The median UPC in bitches with pyometra was significantly higher than in the CG, with a median above the reference values. In conclusion, the UPC can be used in bitches with pyometra to detect renal damage before the development of azotemia. It has been suggested that the UPC of bitches with pyometra should be followed through during the postoperative period so that permanent renal lesions secondary to pyometra can be diagnosed and treated properly before the development of azotemia.(AU)

A doença renal que afeta cadelas com piometra pode levar a insuficiência renal crônica mesmo após o tratamento. Portanto, vários estudos procuraram esclarecer as lacunas na compreensão da patogênese da lesão renal na piometra. A identificação de marcadores de lesão renal precoce, que podem prever e identificar o prognóstico da doença é muito importante. A análise da proteinúria pode diagnosticar lesão renal, uma vez que proteínas como a albumina não são filtradas através do glomérulo e aquelas que sofrem filtração glomerular são quase completamente reabsorvidas pelas células tubulares. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar se a relação proteína-creatinina urinária (UPC) pode detectar lesão renal em cadelas com piometra antes do desenvolvimento de azotemia. Para isso, 44 cadelas com piometra foram divididas em dois grupos: cadelas com piometra azotêmica (A, n=15, creatinina >1,7) e cadelas com piometra não azotêmica (NA, n=29). Os dois grupos foram comparados ao grupo controle (CG, n=12), que não apresentaram sinais de doença sistêmica. Todos os animais foram submetidos a exames de sangue e urina. A leucocitose foi mais evidente nas cadelas do grupo A do que nos outros grupos. Isso mostra que a resposta inflamatória pode estar associada à patogênese da lesão renal. A mediana da UPC em cadelas com piometra foi significativamente maior que no CG, com uma mediana acima dos valores de referência. Em conclusão, a UPC pode ser usada em cadelas com piometra para detectar lesões renais antes do desenvolvimento de azotemia. Sugeriu-se que a UPC de cadelas com piometra deve ser acompanhada durante o pós-operatório, de modo que as lesões renais permanentes secundárias à piometra possam ser diagnosticadas e tratadas adequadamente antes do desenvolvimento de azotemia.(AU)

Anesthetic quality and cardiovascular and respiratory effects of continuous intravenous infusion of tiletamine-zolazepam in bitches / Qualidade anestésica e efeitos cardiovascular e respiratória da infusão intravenosa contínua de tiletamina-zolazepam em cadelas

The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality and recovery from anesthesia promoted by the tiletamine-zolazepam (TZ) combination administered intravenously (IV) continuously in bitches pre-medicated with acepromazine. Eight cross-bred, clinically healthy bitches weighing 13.7 ±1.9kg on average were used in this study. After a food fast of 12 h and a water fast of four hours, the animals were treated with acepromazine (0.1mg/kg, intramuscular) and, after 15 minutes, anesthesia was induced with a combination of tiletamine-zolazepam (2mg/kg, IV) immediately followed by continuous IV infusion thereof at a dose of 2mg/kg/h for 60 min. The following parameters were measured in all animals immediately before administration of acepromazine (M15), immediately before anesthetic induction (M0), and at 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min after initiation of continuous infusion (M5, M10, M20, M30, M40, M50, and M60): electrocardiography (ECG), heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), respiratory rate (RR), body temperature (BT), and arterial hemogasometry, with the last performed only at experimental times M15, M0, M30, and M60. A subcutaneous electrical stimulator was used to evaluate the degree of analgesia. Myorelaxation and quality of anesthetic recovery were also assessed, classifying these parameters as excellent, good, and poor. Anesthetic recovery time was recorded in minutes. HR increased significantly at time M10 in relation to that at M-15, and at times M5, M10, M40, and M50 in relation to that at M0. MAP decreased significantly at M20 and M30 compared with the baseline. BT decreased significantly at M50 compared with that at M0, but no hypothermia was observed. RR showed significant reduction at M5, M10, and M20 in relation to that at M-15, and at M5 and M10 in relation to that at M0, and bradypnoea was observed during the first 20 min after anesthetic induction. Significant decreases in the PR interval at times M10, M40, and M50 were observed in relation to that at M15. Amplitude of the R wave showed significant decrease at M20 compared with that at M-15. In the other ECG parameters, no significant difference was observed between the times evaluated. Hemogasometric parameters and analgesia did not show significant alterations. Myorelaxation and quality of anesthetic recovery were considered excellent. Recovery time was 15.1±7.7 min for positioning of sternal decubitus and 45.5±23.1 minutes for return of ambulation. Continuous IV administration of TZ combination does not produce satisfactory analgesia and does not cause severe cardiorespiratory and hemogasometric effects in bitches pre-medicated with acepromazine.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a qualidade e a recuperação da anestesia promovida pela associação tiletamina-zolazepam, administrada por via intravenosa (IV) contínua, em cadelas pré-medicadas com acepromazina. Foram utilizadas oito cadelas, sem raças definidas, clinicamente sadias, pesando em média 13,7±1,9kg. Após jejum alimentar de 12 horas e hídrico de quatro horas, os animais foram medicados com acepromazina (0,1mg/kg, via intramuscular) e, após 15 minutos, a anestesia foi induzida com a associação tiletamina-zolazepam (2mg/kg, IV) seguida imediatamente pela infusão IV contínua da mesma, na dose de 2mg/kg/h, durante 60 minutos. Os parâmetros que foram mensurados em todos os animais, imediatamente antes da administração da acepromazina (M-15), imediatamente antes da indução anestésica (M0) e, aos 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 e 60 minutos após o início da infusão contínua (M5, M10, M20, M30, M40, M50 e M60) foram os seguintes: eletrocardiografia (ECG), frequência cardíaca (FC), pressão arterial média (PAM), frequência respiratória (f), temperatura corpórea (TC) e hemogasometria arterial, esta sendo realizada apenas nos momentos M-15, M0, M30 e M60. Para avaliação do grau de analgesia foi empregado um estimulador elétrico subcutâneo. Também se avaliou o miorrelaxamento e a qualidade da recuperação anestésica, classificando estes parâmetros em: excelente, bom e ruim. O tempo de recuperação anestésica foi registrado em minutos. A FC aumentou significativamente no momento M10 em relação ao M-15, e nos momentos M5, M10, M40 e M50 em relação ao M0. A PAM diminuiu significativamente em M20 e M30 em comparação ao valor basal. A TC diminuiu significativamente em M50 em comparação ao M0, mas não foi observada hipotermia. A f apresentou uma redução significativa nos momentos M5, M10 e M20 em relação ao M-15, e em M5 e M10 em relação ao M0, sendo observado bradipneia durante os primeiros 20 minutos após a indução anestésica. Foram observadas diminuições significativas do intervalo PR nos momentos M10, M40 e M50, em relação ao M-15. A amplitude da onda R apresentou diminuição significativa em M20 em comparação ao M-15. Nos demais parâmetros da ECG não houve diferença significativa entre os momentos avaliados. Os parâmetros hemogasométricos e a analgesia não apresentaram alterações significativas. O miorrelaxamento e a qualidade da recuperação anestésica foram considerados excelentes. O período de recuperação foi de 15,1±7,7 minutos para posicionamento do decúbito esternal e 45,5±23,1 minutos para retorno da deambulação. A administração intravenosa contínua de tiletamina-zolazepam não produz analgesia satisfatória e não causa efeitos cardiorrespiratórios e hemogasométricos severos, em cadelas pré-tratadas com acepromazina.(AU)