ABSTRACT Equine colic syndrome is one of the most recurrent conditions in equine medicine and is one of the main causes of death within the specie. In addition to the already known predisposing factors, an association between dental treatments and the onset of the syndrome has been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between dental pathologies and equine colic syndrome, analyzing which are the most common and recurrent abnormalities. A dental evaluation was performed on 12 horses after presenting acute abdominal pain. The animals had not received previous dental treatment and came from various locations. It was observed that all horses had sharp enamel points, lacerations of the vestibular mucosa and/or tongue and hooks. Infundibular caries was found in 92%; diastematas and periodontitis in nine of the 12 animals (75%). Based on the statistical evaluation using the R programming language, all correlations performed had a p-value greater than 0.05, comparing non-statistically significant relationships. Although the statistics are not significant, routine dental care is important for the treatment and prevention of the emergence of dental pathologies that predispose to colic.
ABSTRACT Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection that most commonly affects the respiratory tract or central nervous system. However, dogs and cats may also develop cutaneous and gastrointestinal forms of the disease, although these are less frequently reported. This article describes a rare case of intestinal cryptococcosis in a dog. The patient was referred for evaluation due to intermittent bilious vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and hyporexia. Physical examination revealed mild hyperthermia and a palpable abdominal mass. Abdominal ultrasonography identified mesenteric lymphadenopathy and alterations in the intestinal loops. Based on these findings, the patient underwent exploratory celiotomy, which revealed an enlarged and reactive mesenteric lymph node. Cytological analysis of fine-needle aspirates from the lymph node demonstrated fungal structures, and PCR confirmed infection by Cryptococcus spp. Histopathological examination of mesenteric lymph node and intestinal tissue samples revealed granulomatous inflammation with areas of necrosis and fungal hyphae. These findings confirmed the rare diagnosis of granulomatous intestinal cryptococcosis in a dog.
ABSTRACT Equine Purpura Hemorrhagica (EPH) is an acute disease secondary to an immune-mediated hypersensitivity reaction characterized by generalized vasculitis, often caused by complications from infection by Streptococcus equi equi. The disease is characterized by generalized edema in the subcutaneous tissue, hemorrhages in the mucous membranes, and fistulas in the extremities. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, history, and complementary tests such as blood count, biochemical tests, skin biopsy, and pathogen isolation. This paper aims to report on ozone therapy as an adjuvant therapy in the treatment of purpura hemorrhagica in horses. A 6-year-old Quarter Horse, female, with a history of equine adenitis previously treated with a underdose of antibiotics, the animal presented apathy, dyspnea, limb edema, petechial hemorrhages in the ocular and vaginal mucosa and fistulas in the limbs for 15 days. Allopathic therapy was implemented alongside ozone therapy via rectal insufflation and minor autohemotherapy at VG1 points and immunity points. After 30 days of treatment, the animal showed regression of clinical signs and complete recovery. The combination of therapies was effective in the treatment of purpura hemorrhagica in horses; however, further studies are needed to standardize ozone therapy and minor autohemotherapy protocols in the treatment of equine conditions.
ABSTRACT Leishmaniasis is caused by protozoa belonging to the genus Leishmania, which is divided into the subgenera Viannia and Leishmania. The disease is endemic in Brazil, however, the transmission profile in areas with recent human and canine cases, such as Santa Maria/RS, is still unknown. This study aimed to identify the Leishmania species circulating among infected dogs in Santa Maria/RS and determine the antibody titers present in these animals. Serum and tissue samples (spleen, lymph node, and bone marrow) from 53 necropsied dogs at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Santa Maria were analyzed by serological and molecular assays, including the Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) and multiplex polymerase chain reaction (multiplex PCR). Antibody titers ranged from non-reactive to 640. Multiplex PCR identified Leishmania infantum in 100% of the samples, with higher detection in bone marrow, spleen, and lymph nodes, respectively. The results confirm L. infantum as the etiological agent of Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis (CVL) in the studied region. Therefore, the analysis of the genetic structure of Leishmania spp. populations is crucial to understand the transmission cycles, dissemination routes, drug resistance, identification of subspecies and genetic variants, as well as epidemiological control and prevention of CVL.
ABSTRACT Phosphorus (P) excretion in faces from livestock is a significant contributor to environmental pollution, particularly in confined feeding systems. The potential economic cost of excessive P intake and excretion in cattle production systems has also been a concern for both beef and dairy industries. This study aimed to assess fecal phosphorus losses in feedlot beef cattle and confined dairy cows and convert it into an equivalent amount of single superphosphate fertilizer (SSP) and explore the impact of dietary phosphorus concentrations on fecal phosphorus excretion. The study involved a feedlot experiment with beef cattle fed diets containing three concentrations of P and a model simulation using lactating dairy cows. Data from nutritional practices of dairy cattle, including P concentrations in total mixed rations (TMR), were analyzed from eleven dairy farms. In the feedlot study, cattle fed a diet containing 0.24% P excreted an equivalent of 7.54kg of SSP, while cattle fed a 0.50% P diet excreted 22.3kg of SSP over 116 days. This difference was equivalent to the price of 3.83kg of body liveweight per animal. In the dairy cow model, a diet with 0.32% P resulted in 56.6kg of SSP excretion (U$26.7), while 0.50% P excretion led to 125.6kg of SSP (U$59.3) over 305 days. The difference of 69kg of SSP was equivalent to approximately 61kg of milk per cow. In both beef and dairy cattle systems, fecal phosphorus excretion was positively correlated with dietary P levels. Reductions in dietary P intake resulted in significant decreases in fecal phosphorus losses and may be an effective strategy to reduce production costs and environmental pollution.
ABSTRACT Pulmonary hypertrophic osteopathy (PHO) is characterized by bilateral, symmetrical, and progressive periosteal hyperostosis that primarily affects the long bones of the limbs. It is a condition that affects humans, dogs, and other mammals. It is considered a paraneoplastic syndrome when it occurs primarily secondary to lung neoplasms. This study reports the case of a female dog diagnosed with PHO secondary to carcinoma in a mixed mammary tumor. A 10-year-old, unneutered, mixed-breed dog was seen with progressive weight loss, dry cough, reluctance to walk, and symmetrical swelling of all four limbs for approximately two months. A 10-year-old, unneutered, mixed-breed dog was seen with progressive weight loss, dry cough, reluctance to walk, and symmetrical swelling of all four limbs for approximately two months. The PHO is a paraneoplastic syndrome characterized by bilateral and symmetrical periosteal bone neoformation, usually associated with primary or metastatic thoracic neoplasms. The case described reinforces the importance of correlating clinical, radiographic, and histopathological findings for accurate diagnosis and highlights the role of pulmonary metastases from mammary tumors as a potential cause of the syndrome. Early recognition of this paraneoplastic manifestation contributes to appropriate clinical management and a better understanding of this disease in veterinary medicine.
ABSTRACT Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with neuroimmune dysregulation and elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines. This study explores the therapeutic potential of prodigiosin-conjugated silver nanoparticles (PG-AgNPs) in targeting these pathways in an autistic rat model. Autistic-like behavior was induced in rat pups through prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) (600mg/kg). The treatment with PG-AgNPs (3mg/kg) has been applied for 7 days in rat pups after birth. Induction of autism by VPA decreased the level of 5-HT, DA, NE, GABA, glycine and taurine in cerebellum and cerebral cortex as well as reduction in brain cholesterol and antioxidants enzymes (GSH, SOD and CAT). However, it showed a significant increase in MAO, AChE, glutamate, aspartate, serine and lipid peroxidation. The inflammatory mediators NF-kB, TNF-α and IL-1β were increased and enhancing apoptotic markers (Bax, Bcl2) and reduce anti-apoptotic (Caspase-3) in brain tissue. PG-AgNPs treatment markedly reduced these inflammatory markers, restored neurotransmitter balance, and improved antioxidant defenses. Additionally, PG-AgNPs attenuated oxidative stress and modulated apoptotic markers. PG-AgNPs demonstrated significant neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects in the autistic rat model, suggesting their potential as a nanotherapeutic approach for ASD. Further studies are needed to validate their long-term efficacy.
ABSTRACT This study presents the first chemical and biological investigation of the essential oil and hydrolate of Asperula hirsuta Desf. (Rubiaceae) collected from Batna, Algeria. The essential oil and hydrolate were analyzed using GC-MS and HPLC techniques, respectively, and their phenolic and flavonoid contents as well as antioxidant activities were evaluated. A total of 45 components were identified in the essential oil, which was found to be rich in terpenes (27.26%) and saturated hydrocarbons (25.21%). The hydrolate was dominated by caffeic acid, representing 34.71% of its phenolic content. Regarding phytochemical content, the hydrolate exhibited the highest levels, with a total phenolic content (TPC) of 61.98±1.91mg GAE/g and a total flavonoid content (TFC) of 120.22±7.92mg RE/g. The hydrolate also showed higher antioxidant activity than the essential oil, as assessed by DPPH and CUPRAC tests. Notably, this study reports the first evaluation of FRAP and CUPRAC tests for Asperula species. In conclusion, the richness in bioactive compounds of A. hirsuta, combined with its remarkable antioxidant activity, could make it a natural antioxidant agent with considerable potential in various applications.
ABSTRACT This study described the morphology of the female reproductive system of Didelphis marsupialis, focusing on the location and anatomical relationships of the organs. In eight animals, the reproductive structures were located in the caudal abdominal and pelvic cavities, differing from domestic mammals, in which they are positioned in the mid-abdominal region. The ovaries were small, ovoid, and situated within the ovarian bursae, close to the uteri and lateral to the urinary bladder. The uterine tubes adhered to the ovarian bursae and extended cranially to the elongated and fusiform uterine horns. The uterus was double, parallel, and completely separated, contrasting with the single uterus observed in domestic species. Each uterus continued into an independent cervix opening into the vaginal canal, formed by two long, curved lateral vaginas. These structures connected to a pseudovagina, located in the median sagittal plane, which communicated with the common urogenital sinus. The specimens exhibited a cloaca responsible for the elimination of fetuses, urine, and feces through a single opening, a characteristic of marsupials. No evidence of a bifurcated clitoris was found. The anatomical particularities identified provide relevant information about the reproductive biology of Didelphis marsupialis and its relationship with other marsupials.
ABSTRACT Canine vestibular carcinoma (CVC) is a rare nosological entity that usually exhibits infiltrative and aggressive behavior. The present study describes the clinical, laboratory, histopathological, and immunohistochemical findings of a case of CVC in a 12-year-old spayed mixed-breed bitch. The animal presented with an infiltrative and ulcerated vulvar mass, associated with fetid and hemorrhagic discharge, as well as severe anemia and leukocytosis. Histopathological examination revealed a malignant epithelial neoplasm ranging from tubular to solid arrangements, composed of poorly differentiated polygonal to round cells, displaying marked pleomorphism, frequent mitoses, and lymphovascular invasion. Immunohistochemical evaluation showed diffuse positivity for pan-cytokeratin, moderate cytoplasmic labeling for neuron-specific enolase (NSE), absence of S-100 expression, and positivity for uroplakin III (UPIII), a specific marker of urothelial differentiation. The integration of histopathological findings with the immunohistochemical profile allowed the definitive diagnosis of CVC of urothelial origin. This case highlights the importance of histopathological examination combined with immunohistochemistry for the characterization of poorly differentiated vulvovaginal neoplasms of the canine genitourinary tract.
ABSTRACT Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a noninvasive and promising therapeutic approach that has attracted growing attention for its potential applications in tissue regeneration and wound healing. In this in vitro study, we investigated the biological effects of red LED light (wavelength 630nm) on L929 fibroblasts, focusing on cell viability, nitric oxide (NO) production, and collagen synthesis. Cells were exposed to varying power intensities (50, 75, and 100mW) and irradiation durations (5 and 10 seconds). PBM did not compromise cell viability under any of the tested conditions. On the contrary, it significantly stimulated both NO production and collagen synthesis, particularly at higher power settings and longer exposure times. These findings demonstrate that red light can enhance fibroblast metabolic activity, which is essential for effective tissue repair. Therefore, PBM appears to be a valuable and safe therapeutic tool for regenerative medicine. Further in vivo investigations are needed to optimize PBM parameters and confirm their clinical relevance.
ABSTRACT Pesticides pose a health risk due to their residues in food and water. In Brazil, 24% of pesticides exceed the acceptable daily intake limit, with chlorpyrifos being particularly noteworthy for its well-documented neurotoxic effects. Microbial biodegradation, including that mediated by Lacticaseibacillus species, has proven to be a feasible strategy for pesticide removal from the environment. In this study, the efficacy of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG against chlorpyrifos-induced neurotoxicity was evaluated in mouse neuromuscular preparations using a myographic technique. The tested groups (n=5-6) included: control (nutritive solution), probiotic (with previously confirmed viability; 10⁹CFU/mL), chlorpyrifos (300 µg/mL), and pre-incubation of chlorpyrifos with the probiotic (same concentrations). Chlorpyrifos caused a 52%±7 neuromuscular blockade, which decreased to 17%±9 (p<0.05) after 48 h incubation with the probiotic, and to 35%±3 without prior incubation (0 h). Cholinesterase activity in aliquots of the organ bath was inactive under the tested experimental conditions. The resulting muscles were subjected to histological analysis under light microscopy. Chlorpyrifos induced 6.4%±1.8 ghost cells, which were significantly reduced when incubated with the probiotic (>25×) and, to a lesser extent, without prior incubation (3.5×). It is suggested that this protective effect results from passive, time-dependent adsorption of chlorpyrifos by the probiotic, conferring both antineurotoxic and antimyotoxic properties.
ABSTRACT This study characterized the dynamics of clinical, hematological, and biochemical parameters in Santa Inês lambs in the Brazilian semiarid region during their first 30 days of life. Thirty healthy lambs were evaluated, with blood samples taken at birth, 24, 72h, seven, 15, and 30 days for blood count and biochemical analyses (urea, AST, GGT), alongside heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and rectal temperature (RT). Results showed that erythrocytes, hematocrit, and hemoglobin decreased within 24 hours, reflecting the transition from fetal to neonatal erythropoiesis. Mean corpuscular volume reduced, while mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration increased, indicating red cell maturation. Leukocyte counts progressively rose, with a neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio inversion at 15 days, showing immune system development driven by colostrum. Urea and GGT peaked within 24 hours, consistent with protein and immunoglobulin absorption, while AST increased initially, possibly related to neonatal muscle activity. HR and RR gradually decreased, whereas RT remained stable. We conclude that the evaluated parameters underwent important changes during the neonatal period, reflecting physiological and immunological adaptations. This data provides an essential baseline for establishing specific reference values for this critical phase and improving the clinical management of lambs in the region.
ABSTRACT The objective was performed to analyze clinical, hematological, and microbiological profiles through culture of secretions obtained by tracheal lavage in horses with respiratory infections. The study involved 19 male and female horses aged between 3 months and 10 years presenting signs of respiratory disease. They underwent anamnesis, clinical examination, and laboratory tests. For tracheal lavage, sedation with 10% xylazine (1.1mg/kg intravenously) was performed, followed by trichotomy on the ventral edge of the mid-distal region of the neck, anesthetic button using 2% lidocaine without a vasoconstrictor, and surgical antisepsis. The trachea was accessed using 14G catheter, through which n.4 urethral probe was introduced and attached to 20mL syringe containing lactated Ringer’s solution. Immediately the solution was aspirated along with the tracheal secretion. The samples were refrigerated and transported to the laboratory in isothermal boxes for microbiological culture. The microbiological culture the following pathogens were identified: Rhodococcus in 8/19 (42.1%), Aspergillus in 6/19 (31.6%), and Klebsiella, Streptococcus, and Escherichia coli/Proteus in 1/19 (5.3%) each; 2/19 (10.5%) samples were negative. The tracheal lavage is an effective method for collecting tracheal secretions and the association of clinical and laboratory tests provide rapid, early, and conclusive diagnosis in animals with suspected pulmonary disease.
ABSTRACT Lymphoma is one of the most observed tumors in cats. Animals that test positive for Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) are more predisposed to developing lymphoma. The objective of this study is to examine the profile of feline lymphomas related to Feline Leukaemia Virus, recorded in the north-western and central-western regions of Rio Grande do Sul. Cases of lymphoma referred to university laboratories in the regions, originating from biopsies and necropsies, were included in the period from January 2016 to December 2023. The data were analyzed using statistical tests. The Kruskal-Wallis test reviewed whether there was a relationship between age and tumor location, while the ANOVA test showed a correlation between FeLV and the affected site. The animals with lymphomas, 72.73% were positive for FeLV. Mediastinal and extranodal lymphomas were the most common, and a correlation was observed between FeLV and the affected site. It was concluded that the profile of lymphomas in the regions studied was mediastinal tumors followed by extranodal tumors, mainly in young animals between seven months and two years of age. The most affected sites were the thymus and spinal canal in FeLV-positive animals.
ABSTRACT Infectious neurological diseases of the equine central nervous system are major health concerns, and vaccination is the main preventive measure. This study assessed vaccination coverage against rabies, encephalomyelitis, tetanus, and type I equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy in horses from the Vale do Paraíba region (São Paulo, Brazil). A cross-sectional survey with face-to-face questionnaires was conducted on 30 properties, covering 1,140 animals. Sampling followed the WHO-adapted 30-by-7 method, and analyses included principal component and multiple correspondence analysis. Most horses were adult females used in equestrian sports. The vaccination rates were 95% for rabies, 84% for encephalomyelitis and tetanus, and 14% for herpesvirus. Sport horses had higher vaccination adherence, while working horses showed lower coverage. On properties with foals, about 20% did not follow manufacturer recommendations for herpesvirus vaccination. The main study limitation was the absence of a regional equine census and centralized data. Although some properties showed high vaccination rates, others had clear immunization gaps. These findings can help guide regional vaccination strategies and inform similar initiatives elsewhere.
ABSTRACT Degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD) is the most prevalent canine cardiac condition, with left atrial enlargement (LAE) being a critical predictor of progression to congestive heart failure (CHF) and arrhythmogenesis. Identifying accessible, non-invasive markers for preclinical according with the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine - ACVIM (ACVIM Stage A) remodeling is paramount for timely risk stratification. This study investigated the relationship between electrocardiographic (ECG) P-wave duration and key echocardiographic metrics: indexed left atrial end-systolic volume (LAESV IDX), LA/Ao ratio, and normalized Left Ventricular internal diameter (LVIDDn), in a tightly controlled cohort of 22 Shih Tzu dogs (ACVIM Stage A). The mean P-wave duration was 39.55±3.63 ms. Significant positive correlations were found with all remodeling parameters (p<0.05), being the strongest with LAESV IDX (r = 0.61; p=0.002). Linear regression established LAESV IDX as the most robust predictor of P-wave duration (adjusted R²=0.342; p=0.002). Reference thresholds were derived based on ACVIM criteria and sample P95 (LAESV IDX: 44 ms; LA/Ao: 49ms). A transition zone (44-49 ms) suggestive of incipient LAE is proposed. P-wave duration is concluded to be a sensitive, readily available, non-invasive biomarker of preclinical cardiac remodeling in Shih Tzu dogs, enhancing tools for early risk stratification.
ABSTRACT Lesions of the gastrocnemius muscle and tendon often require prolonged recovery periods and carry a guarded prognosis. The goal of treating tendinous injuries is to restore morphology and function. The combination of biological therapies with ozone therapy appears promising by modifying the lesions microenvironment and promoting faster, more controlled, and organized tissue repair. This case report describes intralesional allogeneic platelet lysate combined with perilesional subcutaneous ozone for gastrocnemius tendon rupture. A two-year-old male Mangalarga Marchador horse presented with reciprocal apparatus dysfunction and loss of function of the pelvic limb, diagnosed by ultrasonography with a partial gastrocnemius tendon rupture. The treatment included limb immobilization, serial intralesional injections of pooled allogeneic platelet lysate, and subcutaneous ozone applications around the lesion. Within a short period, limb stabilization, improved weight-bearing capacity, and high-quality tendon repair were observed, confirmed by imaging and clinical evaluation. These findings suggest that biological therapies, like platelet lysate, which improve tissue condition and stimulate regeneration, combined with ozone therapy, which modulates inflammation, may be effective adjuvant strategies in tendon injury treatment, accelerating healing. This case demonstrates the effectiveness of a multimodal therapeutic approach in promoting tendon repair and restoring functionality, highlighting the potential of combining regenerative and modulatory therapies to enhance clinical outcomes in equine tendon injuries.
ABSTRACT Traditional sourdoughs harbor unique microbial ecosystems, are essential for the organoleptic and nutritional quality of bread. This study explores for the first time the microbial ecology of a spontaneous sourdough produced from a whole wheat flour of an endemic Algerian variety (Triticum aestivum L., cv. Mawna). The physicochemical dynamics (pH, titratable acidity) and the microbial community were characterized over five days of fermentation. Hence the molecular identification (16S rRNA and ITS region sequencing) revealed a stable and original microbial consortium. While the bacterial community was composed of three dominant species: Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Enterococcus faecium, and Leuconostoc fallax. Moreover, it is worth mentioning, the yeast community was exclusively composed of the species Pichia kudriavzevii, in which a comparative sequence analysis revealed however for the first time, a significant intraspecific diversity within this ecosystem evidenced with the presence of three distinct strains. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the identity of these isolates (>99% similarity with reference strains). The coexistence of this trio of lactic acid bacteria with a pool of Pichia kudriavzevii strains suggests a complex symbiosis, specifically adapted to the Mawna wheat flour. These findings highlight the richness of traditional Algerian sourdoughs and identify a promising microbial consortium. Which seems to be a prime candidate for the development of indigenous starter cultures, improving thus the technological, aromatic, and preservative properties of breads made from local cereals.
