Quadrupedal Position Research Articles

Evaluation of angular, linear, and body index measures of pêga donkeys (Equus Asinus) from southeast of Brazil

The objective of this study was to perform body evaluation of Pêga donkeys (40 females and 10 males) from the Southeast Region of Brazil. Hippometer, measuring tape, and arthrogoniometer were used, considering the left antimere of the animals in a forced quadrupedal position. The analysis of variance showed a difference (p<0.05) between males and females for chest width, CPr, withers height, croup height, body length, back-loin length, posterior pastern length, and the angle of the tibiometatarsal joint. The values for body length, anterior pastern length, scapulohumeral angle, and metacarpophalangeal joint differed (p<0.05) between farms. Compactness index 1 and conformation index classified the animals as suited for saddle activities, and compactness index 2 classified them as suited for light drafting. The dactylothoracic index classified the animals into eumetric. Cannon load index was similar between sexes and between states. The load on the back by step index was 167.9±12.6 kg, and the LGI was 95.9±6.0 kg, equal between sexes and higher for the animals from RJ. It is concluded that the Pêga breed has sexual dimorphism and regional selection, interfering with morphometry and aptitude for saddle and light draft.

Recovery of Spinal Walking in Paraplegic Dogs Using Physiotherapy and Supportive Devices to Maintain the Standing Position.

Paraplegic patients have always been ideal candidates for physiotherapy due to their body's inability to recover on its own. Regardless of the cause that led to the onset of paraplegia (traumatic or degenerative), physiotherapy helps these patients with devices and methods designed to restore the proper functioning of their motility, as well as their quality of life. A total of 60 paraplegic dogs without deep pain in the hindlimbs caused by intervertebral disc extrusion or thoracolumbar fractures underwent physiotherapy sessions: manual therapy (massage), electrostimulation (10-20 min with possible repetition on the same day), ultrasound therapy, laser therapy, hydrotherapy, and assisted gait in supportive devices or on treadmills to stimulate and relearn walking, which was the main focus of the study. To maintain the standing position over time, we developed different devices adapted for each patient depending on the degree of damage and the possible associated pathologies: harnesses, trolleys, straps, exercise rollers, balancing platforms and mattresses, physio balls and rollers for recovery of proprioception. The main objective of our study was to demonstrate that physiotherapy and assisted gait in supportive devices to maintain the standing position may help paraplegic dogs to develop spinal walking. Concurrent pathologies (skin wounds, urinary infections, etc.) were managed concomitantly. Recovery of SW was evaluated by progression in regaining the reflectivity, nociception, gait score, and quality of life. After 125 to 320 physiotherapy sessions (25 to 64 weeks), 35 dogs (58.33%) developed spinal walking and were able to walk without falling or falling only sometimes in the case of a quick look (gait score 11.6 ± 1.57, with 14 considered normal), with a lack of coordination between the thoracic and pelvic limbs or difficulties in turning, especially when changing direction, but with the recovery of the quadrupedal position in less than 30 s. The majority of dogs recovering SW were of small size, with a median weight of 6.83 kg (range: 1.5-15.7), mixed breed (n = 9; 25.71%), Teckel (n = 4; 11.43%), Bichon (n = 5; 14.28%), Pekingese (n = 4; 11.43%), and Caniche (n = 2; 5.71%), while those who did not recover SW were larger in size, 15.59 kg (range: 5.5-45.2), and mixed breed (n = 16; 64%).

Comparison of the movement behaviour of experienced and novice performers during the Cat exercise.

Two previous studies showed kinematic differences between novice and experienced performers during unchoreographed movements executed in standing position. However, no study explores if these kinematic differences holds during unchoreographed movements executed in quadrupedal position. The aim of this study is to compare the movement behaviour of experienced and novice performers during an exercise wherein they are challenged to use dynamic and largely unchoreographed movement patterns executed in quadrupedal position. The exercise studied was the Cat exercise, in which participants were asked to behave like a feline for 10 minutes. An inventory of the chosen movements and the assessment of their average and coefficient of variation of the ground contact temporal parameters, computed by analysing the tri-dimensional whole-body kinematics of 25 performers (n = 13 novices and n = 12 experienced), was compared according to their experience level. No significant difference was found between the groups for the number of chosen movements, and median or coefficient of variation of ground contact temporal parameters, except for a greater foot/ knee swing coefficient of variation in experienced performers. This suggests that biomechanical constraints induced by quadrupedal position "prevent" a different selection of motor strategies by experienced performers, although the latter can be more variable in their movements.

Ambidextrous Grazing Posture in the Catalan Pyrenean Horse

Motor laterality has been often studied in non-human animals, including ungulates, and it has been noted that adult animals tend to be ambidextrous. Therefore, the current study aimed to study the laterality of grazing posture when standing in a quadrupedal position. To this end, a total of 106 horses (24 foals, 8 yearlings, 14 subadults and 60 adults 53 females and 7 males) of Pyrenean horse from 11 grazing areas farms were observed and their forelimb preference when grazing was recorded (1-3 times for each animal). The obtained results revealed that approximately half of the horses were right-handed and half left-handed, and females were equally lateralized than males. Moreover, lateralization was not affected by age. Therefore, it seems that forelimb ambidexterity in Pyrenean horses is probably due to the lack of human contact. As the presentation of unevenness may be crucial to orthopaedic health and the compensatory mechanisms used by uneven footed horses are currently unknown, data presented here have a complementary crucial interest.

Omphalocele in Neonate Calf

Background: An omphalocele is a rare congenital malformation characterized by the protrusion of the abdominal contents through the base of the umbilical cord. A defect in the midline of the abdomen results in the abdominal contents being covered by a membranous sac near the umbilical cord, which ultimately results in the failure of the abdominal organs to return to the abdominal cavity in the early gestational stages and the development of an omphalocele. This study aimed to address the diagnosis, medical-surgical management, and treatment for an omphalocele in a newborn calf.Case:A 2-day-old male Red Angus calf, weighing 35 kg, was referred to the HVU-UFSM. According to the owner, the animal was born via normal delivery, had ingested milk, was alert, and had an enlarged pendulous abdomen at the umbilicus. Physical examination did not show any changes in vital functions; however, intestinal stasis was observed. An in-depth examination revealed the presence of a round mass of tissue approximately 15 cm in diameter that was filling the remnant of the umbilical cord. This structure was covered by a thin, slightly dried membrane that isolated the contents from the external environment. On palpation, the mass was firm and non-reducible, and an omphalocele was suspected. Given the severity of the condition, the animal immediately underwent an emergency surgical procedure to correct the congenital defect. The surgery involved placing the intestinal loops that were present inside the sac in the abdominal cavity. At the end of the procedure, the animal was placed in a quadrupedal position to better assess omphalocele reduction. Postoperatively, the following medications were administered: a single dose of an analgesic along with a dipyrone and hyoscine-based antispasmodic (25 mg/kg, IM), an enrofloxacin-based antibiotic (2.5 mg/kg, IM) once a day for 7 days, and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, meloxicam (0.5 mg/kg, IM), for 3 days; in addition, the surgical wound was cleaned with a 2% povidone-iodine solution. The animal defecated shortly after the surgery. It received the first postoperative treatment and subsequently recommended therapy on the farm. Wound healing was observed after 10 days, and the stitches were removed by a local veterinarian.Discussion: Birth defects, which are not uncommon in the offspring of a herd, are anomalies in the structure and/or function of a certain system of the organism or part of it. An omphalocele is one of these anomalies and has been reported in foals, cats, dogs, pigs, buffalos, calves, goats, dolphins, and sheep. However, its cause is remains unknown. Although it is speculated that the condition is caused by a recessive genetic trait, it has not been confirmed as a hereditary anomaly. In humans, omphalocele is often associated with other anomalies and, in addition to the intestine, other organs of the abdomen may be involved, which significantly increases mortality. The animal in this study presented with intestinal stasis solely due to the entrapment of portions of the small intestine, and no other organic alteration was found to be associated with the omphalocele. Other abnormalities associated with this congenital defect have not been reported in literature either. The case described herein demonstrates how the clinical approach, early diagnosis, surgical intervention, and therapeutic management achieved the objective of correcting an omphalocele in a neonate calf. Keywords: congenital defect, omphalocele, malformation.Título: Onfalocele em bezerro neonatoDescritores: defeito congênito, onfalopatia, malformação.

Comparison of Coinduction Adjuvants to Propofol in Healthy Cats Sedated With Dexmedetomidine

This study aimed to compare the effects of different coinduction agents on the duration and dose of propofol in healthy cats. Six cats aged 4.8 ± 1.0 years and weighing 4.4 ± 1.1 kg participated in 4 treatment groups of propofol combined with: saline or control group (TC); ketamine 2 mg/kg (Tket); fentanyl 1 µg/kg (Tfen); or midazolam 0.3 mg/kg (Tmid). Twenty minutes following premedication with dexmedetomidine at 10 µg/kg, induction followed the same protocol in all groups, starting with a propofol bolus of 1 mg/kg over 1 minute followed by an adjuvant, then propofol again at 1 mg/kg/minute for orotracheal intubation. Variables recorded were (in minutes): time of extubation, time to return of palpebral reflex, eye recentralization, recovery of consciousness, quadrupedal position and total propofol dose used (mg/kg). A comparison between the 4 groups was performed by analysis of variance followed by Dunnett test under 5% significance. There was no significant difference in any of the times evaluated during anesthetic recovery between the groups. The propofol dose used to allow orotracheal intubation was significantly lower in all groups compared to TC (P < .05). Ketamine, midazolam, and fentanyl are indicated as suitable choices for coinduction with propofol in cats.

Prediction of vitality and survival of newborn lambs using a modified Apgar score

The Apgar score is widely used for global evaluation of the neonate in a minimally invasive way, it assesses neonatal vitality through a range of scores on clinical signs of health and vitality, such as reflexes, respiration rate, and mucosal coloration. The neonatal period is fundamental for lambs survival, that is dependent on complex interactions between maternal ability and newborn viability, as newborn lambs require milk and immunological protection that are dependent of mutual maternal-filial behaviour. The aim of this study was to determine the vitality of Suffolk newborn lambs by the modified Apgar method. Thirty-seven ewes were used and their lambs were classified at 5 min of age by the modified Apgar method. The ewes' body condition score, number of lambs born, and birth weight were recorded. Behaviour was evaluated by measuring, in minutes, the intervals between birth and sternal recumbency, the adoption of quadrupedal position, time until first suckling, and duration of first suckling. Blood samples were collected from the lambs between 24 and 36 h of age to determine gamma-glutamyltransferase activity. Of the 37 births observed, 20 were singles and 17 twins, resulting in 54 newborn lambs, which 27 were classified as high, 11 as moderate and 16 as low Apgar, and the percentages of deaths were 8% (n = 1), 10 % (n = 2) and 81.25 % (n = 13), respectively. The causes of death were: starvation-hypoglycemia-hypothermia complex (10/16, 62.5 %), pneumonia (3/16, 18.75 %), and stillbirth (3/16, 18.75 %). The concentration of gamma-glutamyltransferase in the lamb′s serum with low Apgar was significantly (p-value 0.0027) lower (462.4 IU/L) than in lambs born with moderate (1616.8 IU/L) and high (3177.7 IU/L) Apgar. Birth weight (r = 0.39 and p = 0.0015) and APGAR (r = 0.61 and p < 0.0001) were correlated with survival. The vitality evaluation did predict survival ability and passive immunity transfer characteristics.

Congenital dynamic cervical instability in a dog: the role of computed tomography and 3D printing to plan and optimize the surgical approach

This work aims to report the use of computed tomography (CT) and 3D printing technology in the diagnosis of dynamic instability with spinal compression, and the planning of cervical stabilization surgical of a 3-month-old canine with congenital cervical malformations. The patient had non-ambulatory tetraparesis, and a radiograph showed the fusion of the vertebral bodies from C3 to T3. A CT scan pinpointed the site of the spinal compression and revealed dynamic instability and severe spinal compression between the C2-C3 vertebrae. Tomographic images were processed to print a 3D prosthesis of the patient’s craniocervical-thoracic region to optimize and plan the necessary surgery. After studying the 3D prosthesis and selecting the surgical implants required, cervical stabilization surgery through ventral access was performed. The patient’s clinical improvement was rapid and progressive. Fifteen days post-surgery he was already in a quadrupedal position, after approximately 50 days he started walking again. In a year and a half of follow-up, the patient did not present any recurrence of the clinical signs. The conclusion was that CT and 3D printing contributed substancially for the clinical and surgical management, inferring quality, precision, and agility in the therapy undertaken.

Anesthetic Management of a Brown Bear (Ursus arctos) Captive Undergoing Incisional Biopsy of a Skin Nodule

Background: The brown bear (Ursus arctos) is considered one of the largest terrestrial carnivores, native from temperate forest regions of North America, Europe and Asia. In Brazil, they are founded in captivity and their safe capture and immobilization are obtained with one effective anesthesia for management and surgical and diagnostic procedures. Some anesthetic protocols are described for these purposes, however, there is a lack for data on the anesthetic and adverse effects they have on bears when used. The aim of this case is to report the use and effects of the association of dexmedetomidine with tiletamine and zolazepam in the chemical containment of a captive adult brown bear.Case: A 33-year-old female brown bear, weighing 100 kg, belonging to the Zoobotanic Park of Teresina, Piauí, Brazil, was chemically immobilized for an incisional biopsy of a cutaneous nodule with 1.0 cm diameter in the right face region. The anesthetic protocol included 6 μg/kg of dexmedetomidine associated with 3 mg/kg of tiletamine and zolazepam, administered intramuscularly by dart into the gluteal region of the right pelvic limb. The animal showed moderate ataxia at 5 min and assumed sternal decubitus 7 min after anesthetic administration. The bear's degree of sedation was considered adequate and safe to perform the biopsy at 10 min after administration. Heart rate (47 ± 3 bpm), respiratory rate (17 ± 2 mpm) and rectal temperature (38.7 ± 0.1ºC) were monitored. The bear remained immobile and unconscious throughout the procedure, with intense muscle relaxation, bilateral eyeball rotation, absent lateral palpebral reflex and mild medial reflex and without nystagmus. Complementary sedative doses were not necessary. At the beginning of anesthetic recovery, the bear received 6 µg/kg of atipamezole, intramuscularly. After 25 min of administration of atipamezole, the animal showed signs of recovery in the level of consciousness and reactivity to external stimuli, and assumed the quadrupedal position at 60 min after reverser application.Discussion: Even in captivity, the bears behavior is unpredictable and attack can occur, causing trauma or death to people. For this, the chemical immobilization is important to keep safety of everyone. This procedure was performed using blowgun-assisted darts thrown by a staff member who had experience in using this method, who darted accurately and effectively. The latency time observed after administration of the anesthetic protocol used is similar to reported in other studies with bears that also received intramuscular dexmedetomidine and tiletamine and zolazepam and showed intense muscle relaxation and immobility. The doses used contributed to the absence of bradycardia and hypoventilation and, performing the procedure in the morning, when the temperature is milder in the city, minimized the chance of hyperthermia and thermal stress in the animal, not requiring body cooling. The use of dexmedetomidine in chemical containment protocols for short and minimally invasive procedures allows the subsequent use of its antagonist, atipamezole, contributing to a shorter recovery time, return of the animal’s degree of consciousness and lower incidence of ataxia after assuming a quadrupedal position. The anesthetic protocol used was considered efficient, providing a quick and gentle chemical containment, adequate anesthetic plan and good anesthetic recovery in an adult brown bear from captivity.Keywords:atipamezole, dexmedetomidine, wildlife.Título: Manejo anestésico de um urso pardo (Ursus arctos) cativo submetido a biópsia incisional de nódulo cutâneoDescritores: atipamezole, dexmedetomidine, animais selvagens.

Atresia Ani (Imperforated Anus) in Calves: Clinical, Surgical and Pathological Aspects

Background: Anal atresia is a congenital malformation, which often affects calves, and is related to the imperforation of the membrane that separates the endoderm of the posterior intestine from the ectodermal anal membrane. It is commonly associated with other congenital malformations and skeletal anomalies. The clinical signs generally appear in the first days of the animal's life, due to a retention of feces. The diagnosis is clinical and is based on observation, anamnesis and a physical examination of the animal. The only viable treatment is surgical. This paper aims to report 6 cases of anal atresia in bovine calves, 4 males and 2 females that were successfully treated surgically. Cases: This work reports 6 cases of anal atresia in 4 male calves and 2 female calves. Three presented total atresia (type II), one partial (type I) and in both female calves, anal atresia and rectovaginal fistula (type IV) were observed. The animals were all of undefined race. Five of the cases were from northern Tocantins, 4 males and 1 female (anal atresia with rectovaginal fistula), and 1 female (anal atresia with rectovaginal fistula) was from Valença, RJ. All animals were born active, by eutocic/natural birth, and assumed a quadrupedal position followed by the first feeding as normal. They were aged between 2 days and 6 months, and had a clinical history of abdominal distention and difficulty or inability defecating, and the females both also had a rectovaginal fistula, all cases compatible with anal atresia. Based on the patient's history and clinical examination, surgical treatment for anal reconstruction was decided upon. Postoperative treatment consisted of enrofloxacin [2.5 mg/kg - intramuscularly (IM), once daily (SID), for 5 days] and fluxinin meglumine [1.1 mg/kg - IM, SID, for 3 days] ; as well as a healing ointment which was applied to the area of the surgical wound, every 12 h, for 7 days. There were no trans-surgical complications. The animals showed progressive recovery after anal reconstruction and the stitches were removed in all cases on the 10th postoperative day, with no postoperative complications and no recurrence of any clinical signs from that moment on.Discussion: The study of congenital and hereditary changes enables the identification of their origins, can help prevent new cases and, some of them, are open to economically viable treatment and/or correction that can improve the well-being of the animal and prevent economic losses due to death or animal sacrifice, as reported in the present study. Anal atresia is the most common congenital defect of the lower gastrointestinal tract in calves, being an isolated abnormality, or associated with other malformations, especially of the distal spinal column such as the absence of a tail (perosumus acaudato), as one of the animals in this study. The clinical signs and physical examination are sufficient to establish the diagnosis, as demonstrated in this report, which is usually made in newborn animals, due to the lack or difficulty in defecation associated with no anal orifice and/or swelling in the perineal region. The treatment of choice for anal atresia is surgical, in order to construct an anal neo-orifice and thus avoid endotoxemic shock as well as providing relief and well-being for the animals. As observed in this study, when anal atresia is diagnosed early, and surgical treatment is properly instituted, the prognosis is favorable. The surgery is considered of low complexity, quick and it can be carried out in the field. Thus, from a commercial point of view, considering the costs of the procedures and the value of the calf at the end of weaning, such treatments are beneficial to the owners. In addition, the surgical treatment is essential for animal health and welfare in cases of anal atresia.Keywords: cattle, congenital defects, hereditary pathology, perosomus acaudato, surgery.

Neoplasia Ablation in the Equine Oral Cavity Vestibule

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma is responsible for more than 90% of head and neck neoplasms in humans. Multiple factors are associated with the development of squamous cell carcinomas in humans and animals, such as prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light, lack of pigment in the epidermis, or sparse hair coverage. In horses, oral forms are rare and represent 7% of cases, but sarcoids are the main type of oral neoplasia. In the present case, due to the location and anatomical dimensions of the oral vestibule, it was necessary to adapt it to the natural tumor excision, a fact that aimed to describe this report.Case: One Arabian 2- year-old male horse, treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Santa Cruz State University (UESC), with signs of severe mouth bleeding and halitosis. Clinical inspection of the face showed elevation in the masseter region and left mandible branch. Clinical examination of the oral cavity revealed soft tissue tumor extending from tooth 308 (PM-1, lower left) to 311 (M-3, lower left) and on the buccal surface of the left mandible branch. Radiographic examination revealed no invasion of bone tissue by the tumor. Biopsy material was collected. The histopathological report was of neoplastic cell proliferation, frequent mitoses, binucleate cells and extensive ulceration area associated with neutrophilic inflammatory infiltrate, indicative of squamous cell carcinoma. The animal was referred to the Surgical Sector who, after evaluation of the animal, opted for the ablation of the neoplasia. Pre-anesthesia performed with intravenous detomidine 30 µg/kg, anesthesia with regional mandibular nerve block with 20 mL of 2% lidocaine and maintenance with continuous infusion of detoxid 0.5 µg/kg/ min. Contention for the operative act in the quadrupedal position. The opening of the oral cavity through the Holborn ratchet opener. The beginning of the surgery was with the scalpel, which allowed the removal of approximately one third of the tumor. Due to the great difficulty of fully accessing the area, due to the location of the tumor in the vestibule of the mouth, as well as the presence of fibrosis and calcification, it was necessary to adapt a 15 cm lambotte rugina to allow manipulation and perfect access to the entire mass. tumor for its complete ablation. The synthesis was not performed due to the anatomy and extension of the bed where the tumor was located, which similarly favored drainage. The surgical specimen was treated and fixed in 10% formaldehyde and sent to the Pathology Department for histopathological diagnosis. Immediate postoperative medication consisted of intravenous tranexamic acid administration 5 mg/kg; flunixin megluminate 2.2 mg/kg intramuscularly for three days; intravenous metronidazole 15 mg/kg for ten days and a diet of easily digestible pasture.Discussion: Exeresis of surrounding lymph nodes is indicated, associated with treatment of electrochemotherapy, as oncologists have obtained excellent prognosis and survival of dogs and cats with oral neoplasms. This therapeutic modality may allow the treatment of cancers in horses, since the electric pulse increases the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs. Tumors of the oral cavity of horses, due to the signs and symptoms manifested, must be diagnosed and treated urgently, clinically and surgically, due to the evolutionary characteristics of these diseases.

Management of a Congenital Flexural Deformity in a Calf - Surgical and Pathological Aspects

Background: Flexural deformities are anatomical deviations, in varying degrees, of one or more joints, and may have a congenital or acquired origin. Congenital contracture of the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) affects newborn calves and results in hyperflexion of the metacarpal-phalangeal joint, which in severe cases means that the animal must support its own weight on its fetlock joints. The aim of this study is to report the rapid and successful result of applying bilateral total tenotomy technique on a newborn bovine that had been diagnosed with severe bilateral DDFT contracture in the thoracic limbs.Case: A 3-week-old male bovine with a history of difficulty in maintaining a quadrupedal position was attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Tocantins. The animal had severe bilateral locomotor alterations in the thoracic members to the point that he walked on his fetlock joints. The physical examination revealed clinical parameters within the normal range. However, the locomotor system examination showed severe flexor deformity in the bilateral metacarpal-phalangeal joints, and the limbs were being supported on the dorsal face of the fetlock joints, which presented ulcerations, and was suggestive of a shortening of the DDFT. Based on the patient's history and clinical examination, as well as the severity of the tendon contractures, surgical treatment using the DDFT bilateral total tenotomy technique was decided upon. Postoperative treatment consisted of 2.5 mg/kg of enrofloxacin intramuscularly (IM), SID, for 5 days and 0.5 mg/kg meloxicam via IM, SID, for 3 days; as well as a dressing (cotton, medical bandage and a PVC mold) on the thoracic limbs to provide support and allow the animal to walk, until its complete recovery. One day after the surgery, the animal was able to walk with difficulty and some trembling; however, on the third day after the surgical procedure, it could stand up by itself, walk and graze normally. The surgical stitches were removed seven days after the operation, as the surgical wounds had healed adequately. The animal was followed-up for a one-month period after the total tenotomy, with no recurrence of any of the clinical signs, and the thoracic limbs had regained normal biomechanics.Discussion: Congenital flexural deformities are common in newborn calves of different breeds and their incidence is mainly in the thoracic limbs, especially in the carpal, distal interphalangeal and metacarpal-phalangeal joints as was reported in the animal in this study. The history and anamnesis of the animal, along with a thorough physical examination, in order to rule out any other congenital alterations, was extremely important in the diagnosis, and the classification of the severity of the deformity along with the choice of appropriate treatment in the present study. Although total tenotomy is rarely reported in the literature, and there are controversial results with calves, the surgical treatment was chosen in the present case due to the severity of the case. The DDFT bilateral total tenotomy surgical technique gave satisfactory results for the correction of severe bilateral flexor deformity in the thoracic limbs of the newborn crossbred calf. Complete recovery of the limb biomechanics was rapid, and there was no post-surgical complications, thus ensuring the animal could have a good and healthy life. Total DDFT tenotomy is considered a viable surgical procedure for calves with severe congenital flexor deformities; however, post-operative care is also important to ensure good final results.

Ultrasonografía modo B en la evaluación de testículos de ovinos

Our objective was to evaluate the testicular integrity of sheep by B-mode ultrasound. We used 16 male sheep of no defined breed, aged from 6 to 36 months weighing from 16 to 71kg, raised in semi-intensive system. Prior to the ultrasound evaluations, the males were weighed and a general inspection and palpation evaluation was performed to detect possible changes in the reproductive system by inspection and palpation. The ultrasound examination was performed fortnightly, obtaining images of each testis, corresponding to the positions: sagittal (longitudinal) and transverse (lateromedial), by a single operator, with the animal in quadrupedal position, without trichotomy, and manual restraint, using an ultrasound. (Honda® - HS1500V) coupled to a 7MHz linear transducer with 8.0 MHz frequency in all evaluations. It was possible to easily identify in the sonographic images the testicular parenchyma, mediastinum and the tunics delimiting the parenchyma. In the central region of the testicular parenchyma, the mediastinum, one line and one point are observed when evaluated in the sagittal and transverse planes respectively and always presented a hyperechoic characteristic in relation to the parenchyma. Testicular tunics, a characteristically hyperechoic structure delimiting the testicular parenchyma, were always observed in the images, visualized as a bright, hyperechogenic line that surrounds the testicular parenchyma separating it from the scrotum. Among the animals submitted to ultrasound examination, three of them one with 16 months of age in reproductive activity and two with 36 months and in sexual rest presented images with points suggestive of testicular calcifications observed until the end of the study. However, several studies did not correlate them with pathologies, and there are controversies regarding their presence when considering the age and composition of the finding. The testicular integrity of sheep can be assessed by B-mode ultrasound. Ultrasound examination of the genital system of sheep may be a useful technique that can be successfully and conveniently used for diagnostic purposes of the sheep testis.

Relation between Apgar scoring and physical parameters in 44 newborn Amiata donkey foals at birth

The assessment of the behavior and physiological parameters of neonatal foals is essential in the detection of early signs of illness. Modified Apgar scoring systems from human medicine exist and have been validated in foals as a guide for assessing neonatal viability after birth. This study evaluated the viability of 44 Amiata donkey foals at birth, by assessing the Apgar score and comparing the relationship between viability and various physical parameters.A total of 44 Amiata donkey foals and 27 jennies were enrolled in this study. An expert operator examined each foal within 5 min of birth. A complete physical examination was performed, along with an existing four-parameter Apgar score. The presence of the suckling reflex was evaluated. The interval time needed to acquire sternal recumbency and quadrupedal position, as well as nurse from the mare, were recorded. In addition, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and rectal body temperature (BT) were measured. Results were expressed as median ± standard error, minimum and maximum values.The effects of the Apgar score on time to reach sternal position and quadrupedal standing, time to nurse from the mare, RR, HR, and BT were estimated along with the differences related to Apgar scoring and gender. Differences between female and male donkey foals regarding the time to acquire sternal position and quadrupedal standing, time to nurse from the mare, RR, HR, and BT were also assessed. Differences between female and male donkey foals regarding the Apgar score was evaluated using a chi-Square test. Finally, the reference values for Amiata donkeys were also calculated.Twenty/44 (45.4%) foals were colts and 24/44 (54.5%) were fillies born from 27 jennies. None of the foals showed an Apgar score lower than 6. Twenty-nine out of 44 foals showed an Apgar score of 8/8, 10/44 a score of 7/8, while 5 foals (11.3%) showed a score of 6/8. No differences between fillies and colts in relation to the Apgar score were obtained.

Primary Paranasal Maxillary Hematoma: Clinical Characteristics, Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment

Background: The equine paranasal sinus have a complex anatomy and large compartiments. For this reason, deseases that affect these structures may develop for long periods before the animal show any clinical signs, making it difficult to stablish a definitive diagnosis and institute an adequate treatment. Usually, maxillary hematomas reports come from progression of ethmoidal hematomas, and the descriptions of primary maxillary hematomas are rare. This study aims to report the clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of a case of a maxillary hematoma not associated with ethmoidal turbinates.Case: An 8-year-old male horse, Mangalarga Paulista, was referred to the Centro de Apoio ao Ensino e Pesquisa FMVZ-USP with history of nasal bleeding for over a year. The animal presented deformity on the right side of the face, with significant volume increase on the maxillary bone region and dull sound at percussion, in addition to great painfull sensibility when palpated. The right nare had no airflow, suggesting complete obstruction of the right nasal cavity. In order to better evaluate, endoscopic and radiographic exams were performed. At the radiographic exam, in ventrodorsal projection, it was observed an increase of volume and radiopacity, occupying the right antimer of the nasal cavity, with left nasal septum deviation. In the right dorsoventral oblique projection, it was observed the filling of the rostral and caudal maxillary sinus with the content radiopacity as previously described. At endoscopy exam of the right nasal cavity, it was observed a rounded greenish structure on the middle meatus The diagnosis of maxillary paranasal sinus cist was suggested and surgical removal, through maxillary sinusotomy was recommended. During the surgical procedure, it was noted that the structure previously observed, was not a cavitary organization filled with liquid, but a deorganized, dark and friable mass, like a hematoma. A fragment was sent to histopathological evaluation, which revealed the presence of intact eythrocytes interspersed by fibrilar eosinophilic material (fibrin). There were no indications of an infectious or neoplastic process. The diagnosis of maxillary hematoma was concluded. Forty days after admission, the patient had no surgical complications and showed adequate respiratory flow, at which point the animal was discharged.Discussion: Primary maxillary hematomas are rare on equines. Although benign, it has destructives and expansives characteristics, and for this reason, it can be confused with malignant tumor formation. It has unknown ethiology, and the clinical signs observed are diverse and non specific, which makes it hard to stablish a definitive diagnosis based only on the clinical manifestations of the animal. In this particular case presented, the diagnosis was defined from the hitophatological examination. Initially the image exams (radiography and endoscopy) were usefull to stablish differential diagnosis, as well as the extention of the sinus mass. The surgery was performed with the animal on quadrupedal position, under sedation and local anethesia, in order to dimish haemorrhage occurance during the procedure. This paper describes a primary maxillary hematoma on a horse, characterizing it as to the clinical and pathological manifestations, as well as its surgical treatment. Although rare descriptions and with non specific clinical signs, it is suggested that its occurrence is superior to that described in the literature.

Effects of low-intensity electrical stimulation and adipose derived stem cells transplantation on the time-domain analysis-based electromyographic signals in dogs with SCI

IntroductionThe application of low-intensity electrical stimulation (LIES) to neural tissue increases neurochemical factors responsible for regeneration as nerve growth factor. Stem cell (SC) therapy for patients with Spinal cord injury (SCI) promote some increase functional improvement. ObjectiveInvestigate the electromyographic response in paraplegic dogs undergoing LIES and SC transplantation. Methods27 dogs paraplegics with SCI were divided into three groups with different types of therapy. GADSC: two SC transplants (n = 9); GLIES: LIES (n = 8); GCOMB: two SC transplants and LIES (n = 10). Adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) were transplanted by lumbar puncture in the amount of 1.2 × 106 cells/50 μL. Acupuncture needles positioned in the interspinous space were used for stimulation. The electrical stimulation was applied with a mean voltage ∼30 mV and four consecutive modulated frequencies (5 Hz, 10 Hz, 15 Hz and 20 Hz) within 5 min each. The patients motor performance was evaluated before (Pre) the procedure and after 30 (Post30) and 60 (Post60) days, from electromyography root mean square (EMGRMS) registered with subcutaneous electrodes in the vastus lateralis muscle, while the animals were in quadrupedal position. ResultsAll three groups showed a significant intra-group increase of EMGRMS (Pre vs. Post30 or Pre vs. Post60). However, there were no statistically significant differences between Post30 and Post60. The inter-group test (GADSC X GLIES X GCOMB) did not present significance when compared the instants Pre (p = 0.34), Post30 (p = 0.78) and Post60 (p = 0.64). ConclusionSome dogs recovered motor activity, expressed by the EMGRMS, in all groups, in pre vs. post (30 or 60 days) comparisons.

A modified technique for treating swimmer puppy syndrome

Swimmer puppy syndrome is an unusual anomaly that affects dogs within the first few days or months of life. This syndrome is characterised by the inability of the animal to maintain a quadrupedal position primarily using the pelvic limbs. In some cases, the condition may also affect the thoracic limbs. Although the exact pathophysiology of this condition remains uncertain, plausible causes include alterations in the neuromuscular synapse, improper myelination or poor development of peripheral motor neurons, delayed muscle development or ventral horn neuropathy. Here, we describe our results using a modified technique for the treatment of swimmer puppy syndrome, based on immobilisation for a period of one to four weeks with the aid of microporous hypoallergenic tapes, plasters and elastic meshes. Our modified method showed clear evidence of improvements.

Total Intravenous Anesthesia with Propofol Associated with Fentanyl, Lidocaine or Ketamine in Bitches Submitted to Elective Ovariohysterectomy

Background: Total intravenous anesthesia with propofol is an alternative to inhalation anesthesia because it offers smoother anesthetic recovery, however, since propofol does not have adequate analgesic action, it is necessary to associate it with some drug to avoid the pain process. In addition, the combination may minimize cardiovascular depression resulting from continuous infusion of propofol by reducing infusion rate. The aim of this study was to evaluate cardiorespiratory parameters and anesthetic recovery in bitches submitted to continuous infusion of fentanyl, lidocaine and ketamine associated with total intravenous anesthesia with propofol and submitted to elective ovariohisterectomy.Materials, Methods &amp; Results: Twenty-four bitches were medicated intramuscularly with 0.03 mg/kg of acepromazine. After 30 min, they were divided into three groups with different analgesic treatments: group F (GF) received a loading dose (LD) of 0.0036 mg/kg fentanyl, followed by continuous infusion of 0.0036 mg/kg/h; group L (GL), LD of 3 mg/kg lidocaine, followed by 3 mg/kg/h and group K (GK), LD of 0.6 mg/kg ketamine, followed by 0.6 mg/kg/h. First a LD of analgesic treatment was administered, followed by induction (to the effect) and beginning of continuous infusion of the analgesic treatment and propofol. The animals were intubated with endotracheal tube of adequate size, and connected to 100% oxygen, being kept under spontaneous ventilation during the entire period of anesthetic maintenance. The infusion of propofol started at 0.34 mg/kg/min and was adjusted so as to maintain the surgical anesthesia plane of Guedel and the cardiovascular parameters within the physiological limits for the species. The cardiorespiratory parameters were measured at different moments: basal (before application of any drug) and 5, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 min after induction. The surgery started 20 min after anesthetic induction and lasted 60 min. At the end of the surgery, infusions were terminated and anesthesia recovery was evaluated by measuring the extubation time, sternal decubitus, and quadrupedal position in min. A variance analysis was performed to compare means of cardiorespiratory parameters for the moments and groups followed by the Scott-knott test. Differences were considered significant when P &lt; 0.05. The baseline parameters, age, weight and dose of propofol IC were not statistically different between groups. The infusion rate of propofol increased in all groups from M5 to M15. GF and GL presented lower values for heart rate and GK presented higher values for the same variable. Blood pressure decreased after induction and increased in M40, M50 and M60. The variables EtCo2, PaCo2 and HCO3 increased and pH decreased showing respiratory depression in all groups. The mean time, in min, for orotracheal extubation, sternal decubitus and quadrupedal position were respectively 5 ± 3, 20 ± 6 and 39 ± 13 for GF; 6 ± 2, 23 ± 7 and 51 ± 15 for GL; 4 ± 2, 18 ± 6 and 42 ± 22 for GK and did not present statistical difference between the groups.Discussion: The combination of continuous infusion of fentanyl, lidocaine or ketamine to total intravenous anesthesia with propofol provides cardiovascular stability, but does not prevent respiratory function depression. The dose of propofol IC was the same in all groups, thus demonstrating that analgesics have the same potency in the transoperative period and justifies similar anesthetic recovery times. Thus, it can be concluded that these associations are feasible for total intravenous anesthesia provided proper monitorins for respiratory function.

Avaliação radiográfica da coluna cervical de bovinos que participaram de prova de laço em duplas

In an environment of real competition and great competition during the national championship held in the city of Avaré-S.P. in July 2016, radiographic images of the cervical spine were obtained from 56 male and female bovine animals, with a mean weight of 250 kg. The images were obtained before and after the event, using a digital device with the animals contained in stocks and in quadrupedal position. The evaluated criteria were: malformation, fracture, luxation and alteration of vertebra position. The images were studied by 2 separate evaluators and both did not find lesions before or after the event in the group of animals studied. This result allows us to conclude that, under the conditions of this experiment, there was no alteration in the cervical spine of the cattle caused by the lacing of these animals.

네발기기자세에서 어깨관절과 엉덩관절의 각도 변화에 따른 근 두께 변화

본 논문은 네발기기 자세에서 사지의 각도 변화에 따른 몸통 근육들의 두께를 알아보고 근육활성의 차이를 비교하여 네발기기에서 행하는 척추 안정화를 위한 효과적인 자세를 선택하는데 필요한 자료를 제공하고자 한다. 연구대상은 건강한 대학생 29명으로 하였다. 실험을 위해서 배가로근과 배속빗근, 배곧은근과 배바깥빗근을 측정하였다. 근육의 두께측정 및 디지털 영상분석을 위한 초음파 영상 수집은 초음파 영상장치(Mylav25gold, Esaote, Italy)를 사용하였다. 연구결과 왼쪽 배바깥빗근과 배속빗근, 배가로근 간 두께 변화와 오른쪽 배가로근의 두께 변화에 각도 간의 유의한 차이가 있는 것으로 나타났다. 이 연구는 근육활성의 정도와 몸통 근육들을 활성화하기 위해 네발기기자세에서의 운동이 각도에 따라 다양한 결과를 보인다는 것을 나타낸다. The purpose of this study unit a Quadrupedal position of limbs due to changes in the thickness of the trunk muscles to find out, by comparing the difference in muscle activity fours spinal stabilization devices do you need to choose an effective stance is to provide the data. The subjects C # 29 University students healthy adults were recruited. The Rectus abdominis muscle and the transversus abdominis and internal oblique abdominal muscle, external oblique abdominal muscle should be measured. The results of this study Lt. IO, EO, TrA, Rt. TrA, Muscle showed significant differences among the positions. The study reveals that the exercises in Quadrupedal position can activate trunk muscles and the degrees of muscle activities can vary according to the angle.