C7 vertebra homeotic transformation in domestic dogs - are Pug dogs breaking mammalian evolutionary constraints?

The number of cervical vertebrae in mammals is almost constant at seven, regardless of their neck length, implying that there is selection against variation in this number. Homebox (Hox) genes are involved in this evolutionary mammalian conservation, and homeotic transformation of cervical into thoracic vertebrae (cervical ribs) is a common phenotypic abnormality when Hox gene expression is altered. This relatively benign phenotypic change can be associated with fatal traits in humans. Mutations in genes upstream of Hox, inbreeding and stressors during organogenesis can also cause cervical ribs. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of cervical ribs in a large group of domestic dogs of different breeds, and explore a possible relation with other congenital vertebral malformations (CVMs) in the breed with the highest prevalence of cervical ribs. By phenotyping we hoped to give clues as to the underlying genetic causes. Twenty computed tomography studies from at least two breeds belonging to each of the nine groups recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale, including all the brachycephalic 'screw-tailed' breeds that are known to be overrepresented for CVMs, were reviewed. The Pug dog was more affected by cervical ribs than any other breed (46%; P < 0.001), and was selected for further analysis. No association was found between the presence of cervical ribs and vertebral body formation defect, bifid spinous process, caudal articular process hypoplasia/aplasia and an abnormal sacrum, which may infer they have a different aetiopathogenesis. However, Pug dogs with cervical ribs were more likely to have a transitional thoraco-lumbar vertebra (P = 0.041) and a pre-sacral vertebral count of 26 (P < 0.001). Higher C7/T1 dorsal spinous processes ratios were associated with the presence of cervical ribs (P < 0.001), supporting this is a true homeotic transformation. Relaxation of the stabilizing selection has likely occurred, and the Pug dog appears to be a good naturally occurring model to further investigate the aetiology of cervical ribs, other congenital vertebral anomalies and numerical alterations.

Cytogenetic monitoring of domestic mammals exposed to wastewaters from the localities of Dladla and Boukallou near Settat, Morocco.

The aim of this work was to know the biological impact of wastewaters on livestock in the localities of Dladla and Boukallou (Town of Settat, Morocco), where wastewaters are largely used by the local population for their agricultural activities. We used the micronucleus (MN) test in cytochalasin B blocked binucleated cells (BNC) to assess the possible induced genetic effects. The cellular proliferation index (PI) was also calculated. Blood samples were collected from sheep, bovines and mules and peripheral blood cultures were made according to our laboratories' standard methodology. The results showed a significant increase of micronucleated cells in the lymphocytes of the exposed animals (14+/-8.79 MN/500 BNC) compared to the control (3+/-1.54 MN/500 BNC). The PI showed a nonsignificant decrease in the exposed animals. The highest MN frequency was found in mules which is probably due to their more sedentary life. Direct use of the wastewater by the animals as their source of drinking water significantly increased the frequency of cells with micronuclei. We also established an inverse correlation between the chromosome number and the PI. These results suggest a serious degradation of the ecosystem due to the wastewaters with a direct impact on its inhabitants.

Heritability and diagnosis of congenital abnormalities in food animals.

The heritability and diagnosis of congenital abnormalities in food animals have been reviewed from the viewpoint of practitioners, clinicians, and researchers. At least 632 putative mutant genes have been cataloged and listed according to the principal body system affected and mode of inheritance (see Tables 1 and 2). Implications of recent advances in genetic methodology are noted.

Quinolizidine and piperidine alkaloid teratogens from poisonous plants and their mechanism of action in animals.

Quinolizidine and piperidine alkaloid teratogens from Lupinus, Conium, and Nicotiana genera have been identified as causes of birth defects in livestock induced by poisonous plants. Many defects now known to be related to poisonous plant ingestion were once thought to have a genetic origin. This supposition delayed diagnosis, reporting, and understanding of such birth defects, because breeders and producers feared the news would make it difficult to sell breeding stock. Defects caused by quinolizidine and piperidine teratogens include cleft palate and contracture-type skeletal defects such as arthrogryposis, scoliosis, torticollis, and kyphosis. Teratogens have been identified, differences in susceptibility to teratogenic compounds among livestock species have been elucidated, periods of gestation when specific types of birth defects occur have been determined, and information about mechanism of action has been developed.

Congenital abnormalities of internal organs and body cavities.

Many of these malformations are reported sporadically, but a few are common, and several have important clinical implications. One example is schistosomus reflexus, which is always a challenge for veteran clinicians and often baffling to inexperienced obstetricians. The recent finding that early palpation of the amniotic vesicle can cause intestinal atresia in calves is extremely significant for dairy practitioners. Finally, there is the ethical question in breeding animals--repairing defects that are thought to be genetic, such as atresia ani, scrotal hernia, and umbilical hernia.

Viruses as teratogens.

The ability of certain viruses to affect prenatal development in domestic animals is well documented. However, differentiating a viral-induced malformation from those caused by genetic or other environmental causes is a diagnostic dilemma. Understanding how viruses interact with their embryo-fetal hosts and the potential consequences on prenatal development requires refining and dispelling some old concepts and injecting new insights into this diagnostic challenge. This article discusses several viral teratogens affecting domestic animals: Akabane, bluetongue, Cache Valley, Japanese B encephalitis, bovine viral diarrhea, Border disease, Chuzan, epizootic hemorrhagic disease, hog cholera, Rift Valley fever, and Wesselsbron disease viruses.

Factors on farms in eastern Australia associated with the development of tibiotarsal rotation in ostrich chicks.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the incidence of tibiotarsal rotation (TTR) in ostrich chicks and to identify factors on farms associated with the development of TTR. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study using a personal interview. PROCEDURE: During a single visit to 31 farms, data were collected about a defined cohort of chicks, and about farm-related factors that may be associated with the development of TTR. Farms were categorised for TTR status according to the proportion of the chick cohort that survived to 10 weeks of age without developing TTR. Chick performance was measured using descriptive epidemiological methods and univariable analyses were conducted to identify unconditional associations between TTR status and farm-related factors. RESULTS: Ninety-six of 931 ostrich chicks from 21 (68%) farms developed TTR during the first 10 weeks following hatch. Lower limb deformities were the most common cause of death in chicks between 3 and 10 weeks of age. On seven (23%) study farms, where less than 87% of young chicks survived to 10 weeks without developing this condition, TTR was considered a serious problem. Twelve farm-related factors were associated with farm TTR status, including eight chick-related variables (aspects of nutrition, pen design and management) and four farm-related variables (related to the number of veterinary visits, farm location, number of rainy days and the person most closely involved with chick raising. CONCLUSION: The results confirm a continuing problem of young chick wastage in eastern Australia. TTR was an important cause of mortality in farmed ostrich chicks during the first 10 weeks after hatch. The factors that producers could address to reduce the incidence of TTR include pen design, access to water and nutrition.

[Implementation of paragraph 11b of the German Animal Welfare Act on the basis of the so-called "Quality Breeding" Report]. / Umsetzung des paragraph 11b TschG auf der Grundlage des sog. "Qualzucht"--Gutachtens.

Enforcement of paragraph 11b of the German Animal Welfare Act is a responsibility of breeders and their organisations as well as executive local authorities. The Report on Defective Breeds of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture describes numerous breeding traits which are in conflict with animal welfare and gives valuable information for fancy or pet breeding. Yet a selection has to be made for taking legal actions, following specific criteria. With four examples different cases are presented, each requiring a different approach by the veterinarian authorities. Court decisions in Hessen concerning bans on breeding white cats and crested ducks show that the paragraph 11b is executable.

Acumuladores de animais: instrumento de vistoria técnica e perfil de casos no município de Guarulhos, SP, Brasil / Animal hoarders: Technical inspection instrument and profile in the city of Guarulhos, SP, Brazil

O transtorno de acumulação de animais, é uma psicopatologia caracterizada pela aquisição de muitos animais mantidos em espaços inadequados, onde os cuidados básicos de saúde, alimentação e bem-estar são negligenciados. O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar o perfil de acumuladores de animais no município de Guarulhos e elaborar um instrumento de coleta de dados para ser utilizado em vistoria técnica nestes casos. Foi realizado um levantamento e análise descritiva dos arquivos de casos de acumuladores de animais atendidos pelo serviço municipal. Dentre os 26 casos recebidos no período de 2012-2017, 12 (46,16%) eram referentes a casos de acumulação de animais. Estas ocorrências foram encaminhadas ao serviço de saúde como denúncias. Os dados obtidos, por meio das análises dos prontuários, foram refinados e, posteriormente, transcritos em planilhas considerando as variáveis de interesse, assim, facilitando o processo de interpretação. Para caracterizar o perfil dos casos de acumuladores, os dados adquiridos foram analisados por meio de cálculos de médias e frequências relativas. O perfil de acumuladores se caracterizou por mulheres, solteiras, idosas, desempregadas ou aposentadas, que residem sozinha em casa própria, portadoras de comorbidades ou fatores psicológicos associados, acumulando cães e gatos, especificamente, cães em sua maioria. O instrumento de vistoria em atenção a indivíduos em situação de acúmulo de animais proposto apresenta caracterização do indivíduo, ambiente, condições gerais dos animais e, ainda, indicadores de comprometimento de bem-estar animal ou maus-tratos.

Animal hoarding disorder is a psychopathy characterized by the acquisition of many animals that are kept in improper locations, in which the basic health care, feeding and well-being are neglected. The objective of this study was to characterize the profile of animal hoarders in the city of Guarulhos and to elaborate an instrument of data collection to be used in technical survey in cases of animal hoarding. Amongst the 26 cases analyzed, 12 (46,16%) were related to animal hoarding. These cases were sent to the health care service as denounces. Data obtained through analysis of medical records were refined and later transcribed into spreadsheets considering the variables of interest, thus facilitating the interpretation process. To characterize the profile of the hoarding cases, data were analyzed by means of calculations of means and relative frequencies. Hoarders profile is characterized as female, single, elderly, unemployed or retired, living alone at her own house, with associated comorbidities or psychological disorders, hoarding dogs and cats, specifically dogs in most cases. The proposed instrument presents characterization of the individual, environment, general conditions of the animals and also indicators of impairment of animal welfare or animal abuse.

[Performance-related health disorders in farm animals--the ethical dimension]. / Leistungsabhängige Gesundheitsstörungen bei Nutztieren--die ethische Dimension.

The term "performance-related health disorders" has been defined by Bergmann (1992) as catabolic phenomena and pathological processes that are related to or caused by high productivity levels. In the past few years, a cause and effect relationship has been determined between numerous health disorders found in farm animals and their increased productivity. In contrast to the classic hereditary diseases, the performance-related health disorders are anthropogenic diseases. The severity of these disorders is, as a rule, determined by anthropogenic environmental factors. Breeding and keeping animals in such a way that they suffer from performance-related health disorders therefore is an ethical problem. Furthermore, it has also been a legal problem since the implementation of Section 11b of the German Protection of Animals Act (TierSchG) in 1986. However, this ban has not been enforced; the federal ministry responsible argues that this is because there is still a "very controversial discussion" on the question of when the "line that separates breeding from 'problem' or 'agony breeding' (Qualzucht)" has been reached or overstepped. The following article takes a close look at the almost 20-year-old debate on the lack of enforcement. There is a large amount of circumstantial evidence that indicates that the problems that arise in determining whether specific animals fall under Section 11b TierSchG do not arise from a veterinary dispute but rather from the difficulty of identifying responsibilities. The traditional ethical model used to appeal to the feelings of responsibility in a layperson is the so-called Golden Rule ("do unto others as you would have them do unto you") which so far has not been applied to the area of animal breeding. The following article presents a model on how to create an awareness for ethical malpractice. The model makes it possible to use the change of perspective demanded by the Golden Rule and apply it to the area of animal breeding. This provides what could potentially be a useful aid in understanding ones own responsibility. While looking at possible solutions, two aspects are differentiated: the chronic non-enforcement of Section 11b TierSchG and the complete abolition of the problem. Possible solutions are presented for both areas and put up for discussion.

[Skin and plumage changes in domestic birds. II. Plumage changes--1]. / Haut- und Gefiederveränderungen bei domestizierten Vögeln. Teil II: Gefiederveränderungen--1.

Modifications of the plumage and specific feather malformations, as developed during the domestication process of different poultry species are described. The modifications include henny feathering, elongated feathers, ear tufts, muffs, and increased numbers of tail feathers. The greater part of these plumage modifications is generally of interest for exhibition poultry fancy. Several of the plumage abnormalities presented distinctly impair the normal species-typical way of life of the animals concerned. The spectrum of negative influences comprises disorders in social behaviour, loss of, or restrictions in typical plumage functions such as weather susceptibility, as well as disabilities of normal mobility. Finally, genetic defects and pathogenic predispositions are also connected with such plumage modifications.

[Breed-dependent anomalies in ornamental birds]. / Zuchtbedingte Anomalien bei Ziervögeln.

Following a definition of the terms pet bird and domestication, and a description of important mechanisms which may have played a role during domestication, a short review is given on the various changes that occurred and have been used selectively by humans: changes in body size, skin and feathers, skull, metabolisms, and the central nervous system including behavior and disturbances of behavior. Implications for animal welfare are considered.

Crecimieto folícular ovárico en animales domésticos: una revisión / Ovarian follicular growth in domestic animals: a review

El desarrollo folícular ovárico en los animales domésticos durante un ciclo estral sigue un patrón de dos o tres oleadas o grupos de folículos que crecen. En ese proceso están identificados tres eventos fisiológicos; el reclutamiento, la selección y la dominancia que ejerce el folículo de mayor tamaño sobre los subordinados. En cada oleada folícular es reclutado un grupo de folículos primordiales que posteriormente crecen. La selección del folículo dominante ocurre al final de la fase común de crecimiento. El folículo dominante continúa creciendo a una tasa constante y el resto de los folículos sufren atresia. La desviación folicular es un concepto relativamente nuevo y se refiere al inicio de una diferencia notoria en la tasa de crecimiento entre los dos folículos más grandes presentes en el ovario de hembras monotocas. Los mecanismos fisiológicos implicados en el proceso de desviación y selección no se han definido completamente, pero al parecer se relacionan con la adquisición de receptores para la hormona luteinizante en la granulosa del folículo dominante, un incremento en la producción de estradiol por ese último y la disminución de las concentraciones la hormona folículo-estimulante. Se encuentra implicado también el sistema a través de factores de crecimiento insulínicos (IGF-1 y -2), proteínas de unión (IGFBP-1, -2, -3, -4, -5 y -6) y proteasas específicas que degradan las IGFBPs. Se describen las relaciones endócrinas, parácrinas y autócrinas del crecimiento folícular, con énfasis en los factores fisiológicos señalados y que están envueltos en el proceso de desviación y selección.