Sex Determination in Two Species of Anuran Amphibians by Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Ultrasound Techniques.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether gender determination in two amphibian species (Kaloula pulchra and Xenopus laevis) can be reliably carried out by means of magnetic resonance imaging (benchtop magnetic resonance imaging; BT-MRI) or ultrasound (high-resolution ultrasound; HR-US) techniques. Two species of healthy, sexually mature anurans have been used in the present study. Eight Kaloula (blind study) and six Xenopus were used as controls. Magnetic resonance imaging experiments were carried out on a low-field (1 Tesla) benchtop-MRI (BT-MRI) system. HR-US examination was performed with high-resolution equipment. Low-field BT-MRI images provided a clear and quantifiable identification of all the sexual organs present in both genders and species. The HR-US also allowed the identification of testes and ovaries in both species. Results indicate that BT-MRI allowed a very precise sex identification in both anuran species, although its use is limited by the cost of the equipment and the need for anesthesia. HR-US allowed an accurate identification of ovaries of both species whereas a precise identification of testes is limited by the ultrasonographer experience. The main advantages of this technique are the possibility of performing it without anesthesia and the higher availability of equipment in veterinary and zoo institutions.

Remodelación de la grasa localizada con ultrasonidos de baja frecuencia, intensidad media y múltiple focalización: conclusiones preliminares / Abdominal fat remodeling using low frequency, medium intensity ultrasounds and multiple focalization: preliminary conclusions

INTRODUCCIÓN Y OBJETIVO: Los ultrasonidos focalizados de alta intensidad (HIFU) producen lisis del adipocito por calor con la finalidad no invasiva de remodelar la grasa corporal localizada. Observamos de forma prospectiva los efectos de un sistema que emite ultrasonidos de baja frecuencia, intensidad media y múltiple focalización, y sus posibilidades de disminución y remodelación de los acúmulos de grasa subcutánea del abdomen. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Presentamos el primer análisis técnico específico de un sistema de emisión diferente a los clásicos HIFU, y los resultados en 10 pacientes entre 24 y 56 años e IMC < 28, que recibieron 3 sesiones de tratamiento en abdomen con idéntico protocolo y separadas por 3 semanas. Evaluamos resultados finales a los 3 meses de la tercera sesión, comparando con el estado al inicio del tratamiento. Medimos con plicometría el contorno abdominal y el grosor del pliegue graso. Comparamos fotografías estandarizadas y obtuvimos muestras para microscopía en 3 tiempos de control del estudio empleando tinciones de hematoxilina, tricrómico de Masson e inmunohistoquímica. Implementamos cuestionarios para que pacientes, terapeuta y 2 médicos ajenos al estudio evaluaran resultados. RESULTADOS: El control específico de las características técnicas del sistema empleado indicó que, a diferencia de los HIFU, la emisión es de ultrasonidos de baja frecuencia, intensidad media y múltiple focalización. En las fotografías, plicometría y circunferencia abdominal encontramos reducción significativa del volumen abdominal. Las respuestas a las preguntas de los cuestionarios fueron positivas en cuanto a resultados, tanto por las pacientes como por los médicos evaluadores y la terapeuta que realizó los tratamientos. En las histologías observamos cambio de la forma típica del adipocito y lisis de su membrana tras la primera sesión de tratamiento. Identificamos desarrollo de nuevo colágeno y mejoría de la elastosis, significativas de mejoría de la tensión en las áreas tratadas. De las 10 pacientes, 9 confirmaron estar muy satisfechas y 1 satisfecha con la reducción del contorno y volumen del abdomen que se mantuvo 3 meses después del último tratamiento. No observamos efectos adversos importantes salvo ligero eritema y edema tras las sesiones, que desapareció a las 24 horas. CONCLUSIONES: El sistema empleado, con su particular modo de emisión y actuación sobre el tejido subcutáneo, resultó eficaz en la remodelación de la grasa localizada. Consideramos que además puede emplearse como tratamiento no invasivo para complementar las liposucciones quirúrgicas

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) produce fat cell lysis during the treatment of subcutaneous tissue due to termal effect. In this study, an ultrasound system of low frequency, medium intensity and multiple focalizations was used for reduction and remodeling of the subcutaneous fat layer. METHODS: This study presents the first specific technical analysis of a system which differs from the traditional concept of HIFU energy emission. Ten patients received 3 sessions of treatment, following the same protocol, 3 weeks apart from each other. Patients ages were between 24 and 56 with a BMI < 28. Final control was done 3 months after the third session to compare the results with the status at the beginning of treatments. Abdomen circumference was measured, as well as the fat fold using a plicometer. Equal photographs of before and 3 months after the last treatment session were compared. Samples were obtained for microscopic analysis at the 3 points of control of the study, stained with hematoxilin, Masson trichromic and immuno-histochemical techniques. Questionnaires were implemented for evaluation of results by patients, the nurse who did the treatments and 2 doctors estrange to the study. RESULTS: Plicometry and abdominal circumference measurements found a significant objective and subjective reduction in the abdomen volume, which was also verified by comparing photographs. Histology following treatment showed adipocite changes in shape and membrane lysis. New collagen formation was present in samples taken before the third treatment session. At this control, dermis showed better condition regarding elastosis which was notable less. Patients' satisfaction degrees coincided with that of the nurse and the 2 doctors. Nine of the 10 patients were very satisfied and 1 was satisfied with the reduced circumference and decreased abdomen volume achieved. Results were maintained 3 months after the last session. No significant adverse effects were observed, only slight erythema and edema at the end of sessions, which disappeared within 24 hours. CONCLUSIONS: The system used in the study, with its particular mode of emission and action on fat tissue, is efficacious in decreasing and remodeling localized fat accumulation, and could be used as a non-invasive complementary treatment to surgical liposuction

Comparative physiology of glomerular filtration rate by plasma clearance of exogenous creatinine and exo-iohexol in six different avian species.

Early diagnosis of kidney diseases in avian species is limited. Endogenous markers currently used in avian practice are not sensitive enough to identify early kidney failure. Consequently, alternative markers should be evaluated. To be able to evaluate these alternative markers, an accurate marker to estimate the GFR should be validated. This study determined the GFR, measured as clearance of exogenous creatinine and exo-iohexol, in six different bird species, i.e. broiler chickens, laying chickens, turkeys, Muscovy ducks, pigeons and African grey parrots (4♀/4♂). To be able to compare the six bird species, normalization to bodyweight (BW) of the GFR was performed, after a good correlation between BW and kidney weight was demonstrated (R² = 0.9836). Clearance of exo-iohexol normalized to BW (mL/min/kg) was determined in all bird species, i.e. 3.09 in broiler chickens; 2.57 in laying chickens; 1.94 in turkeys; 1.29 in pigeons; 2.60 in ducks and 1.11 in parrots. However, these results differed significantly with the clearance of exogenous creatinine: 8.41 in broiler chickens; 9.33 in laying chickens; 5.62 in turkeys; 14.97 in pigeons; 17.59 in ducks and 25.56 in parrots 25.56. Iohexol is preferred to measure the GFR, since it is not prone to tubular reabsorption nor secretion.

Clinicopathologic findings of naturally occurring Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 infection in pet rabbits.

Two pet rabbits were presented with an acute decrease in appetite and activity. Rabbit 1 showed severe hypothermia, bradycardia, arrhythmias, a heart murmur, dyspnea, occlusion of the nares with secretions, icterus, dehydration, and gaseous gastrointestinal dilation. The urine was dark yellow. Rabbit 2 was overweight, apathetic, and dehydrated; this animal presented with a heart murmur, gastric dilation, and intermittent nystagmus with dorsal strabismus in the right eye. Blood gas, electrolyte, hematology, plasma clinical biochemistry analysis, coagulation profile, plasma protein electrophoresis, urinalysis, and radiographic examinations were performed. The main shared findings were moderate thrombocytopenia, markedly decreased aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase activities and fibrinogen concentrations, prolonged prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin times, profoundly increased alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) activities, and high bile acid and bilirubin concentrations. Rabbit 1 also had respiratory acidosis, marked hypoglycemia, hyperphosphatemia, and a profoundly increased creatine kinase activity. Gastric dilation was observed on both radiographic exams. A low urinary pH of 5-6, marked bilirubinuria and proteinuria, and high urinary GGT levels were present in both patients. Marked icterus developed before death, which occurred within 22 and 30 hours post admission in rabbits 1 and 2, respectively. The necropsy of rabbit 1 showed a markedly accentuated hepatic lobular pattern, pulmonary hemorrhages, pericardial effusion with adhesions, peritoneal petechiae, and icteric and hemorrhagic abdominal fat. Histopathologic findings included hemorrhagic diathesis, severe centroacinar and midzonal hepatocellular necrosis, severe necrosuppurative bronchopneumonia, and moderate cardiomyocyte necrosis. A liver PCR assay was positive for Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) 2 (RHDV2) and negative for classic RHDV. This is the first description of the gross clinicopathologic abnormalities associated with naturally occurring RHDV2 infection in pet rabbits.

Pharmacokinetics of meloxicam during multiple oral or intramuscular dose administration to African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus).

OBJECTIVE To determine the pharmacokinetics of meloxicam in African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) during administration of multiple doses. ANIMALS 6 healthy African grey parrots. PROCEDURES Meloxicam was administered at each of 3 dosages (1 mg/kg, IM, q 24 h, for 7 days; 1 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h, for 12 days; and 1.6 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h, for 7 days) with an 8-week washout period between treatments. Blood samples were collected 12 and 24 hours after each drug administration (times of presumptive peak and trough drug concentrations) for pharmacokinetic analysis. Birds were visually assessed during all experiments and monitored for changes in selected plasma and urine biochemical variables after administration of the drug at 1.6 mg/kg. RESULTS Mean trough plasma concentrations at steady state were 10.7 and 9.16 µg/mL after meloxicam administration at 1 mg/kg, IM, and 1 mg/kg, PO, respectively. Plasma drug accumulation was evident (accumulation ratios of 2.04 ± 0.30 [IM treatment] and 2.45 ± 0.26 [PO treatment]). Plasma and urine N-acetyl-ß-d-glucosaminidase activities were significantly increased at the end of meloxicam treatment at 1.6 mg/kg. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Plasma concentrations of meloxicam were maintained at values greater than effective analgesic concentrations described for other avian species. Although administration of meloxicam at a dosage of 1 mg/kg IM and PO daily for 1 week and 12 days, respectively, was not associated with adverse clinical effects in this population, further studies are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of the drug during prolonged treatment and the clinical relevance of its accumulation.

Seminal Vesiculitis in Three Pet Rabbits ( Oryctolagus cuniculus ).

To date, descriptions of pathologic conditions of the seminal vesicle in rabbits are scarce and limited to the laboratory animals in experimental conditions. The present article describes three cases of strangury, abdominal pain, and anorexia associated with seminal vesiculitis in pet rabbits. Three non-neutered male pet rabbits aged 3.6, 1.5, and 2.1 yrs were presented with strangury, abdominal pain, and anorexia. Seminal vesiculitis was diagnosed based on clinical signs and ultrasonography findings. Vesiculectomy was performed in two cases that presented strangury refractory to medical treatment, and diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology. In the third case, the patient received medical treatment, and a sequela in the form of lithiasis of the seminal vesicle was detected 3 yrs later. Plain radiographs were nearly unremarkable, and results from complete blood analysis and urinalysis were not specific in all three cases. Contrast radiography was performed in one case, showing a dilated seminal vesicle. Ultrasound and surgical biopsy seem to be the most sensitive techniques in the diagnosis of this pathology. Seminal vesiculitis must be included in the differential diagnosis of acute or chronic strangury in male pet rabbits.

KLOSSIELLA DULCIS N. SP. (APICOMPLEXA: KLOSSIELLIDAE) IN THE KIDNEYS OF PETAURUS BREVICEPS (MARSUPIALIA: PETAURIDAE).

Two cases of renal klossiellosis were diagnosed by histopathology in pet sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps). In both cases, parasites were associated with tubular dilation and mild interstitial nephritis. Rare schizonts were seen in the proximal convoluted renal tubular epithelium, whereas all other life cycle stages were found within distal convoluted tubule cells or the urinary space of the structures distal to the loop of Henle. Conventional optical and transmission electron microscopies were used to assess the life stages of the parasite. The morphologic characteristics and measurements observed differ from those of previously described species of Klossiella infecting marsupial hosts, and the name Klossiella dulcis n. sp. is hereby proposed. This is the first report of a Klossiella sp. infection in Petaurus breviceps .

Plasmatic L-lactate in pet rabbits: association with morbidity and mortality at 14 days.

BACKGROUND: The clinical relevance of plasmatic L-lactate concentration (PLLC) is unknown in rabbits. Due to an entirely different metabolism of lactic acid, PLLC in rabbits can reach much higher concentrations than in other species. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to establish a reference interval (95% RI) for venous PLLC in pet rabbits and to assess its diagnostic and prognostic significance in ill pet rabbits. METHODS: Plasmatic L-lactate concentration was determined by an enzymatic colorimetric method. In the first study, healthy rabbits (n = 140) were the control group. The ill rabbits group (n = 405) included the deceased (n = 108) and the survivors (n = 266), depending on the outcome at day 14. In a second study, variation in the PLLC was determined in 25 boarding (control-serial), 99 hospitalized (deceased-serial [n = 27], and survivors-serial [n = 72]) rabbits sampled at 0, 12, 24 and 48 hours. RESULTS: The 95% RI for PLLC in controls was 2.1-15.2 mmol/L. On-arrival PLLC in ill rabbits was not statistically different from those in the control group, but was significantly lower in deceased compared to survivors or controls. The range of PLLC variation differed significantly between control-serial, deceased-serial, and survivors-serial groups. A better prognosis was associated with an increase of 3.3 mmol/L PLLC within 48 hours after arrival. CONCLUSIONS: Contrary to the available information in other species, morbidity and mortality is associated with sustained low PLLC in pet rabbits, while a good prognosis is associated with an increase in PLLC. Monitoring PLLC in hospitalized rabbits is advisable.

Effects of Meloxicam on Hematologic and Plasma Biochemical Analyte Values and Results of Histologic Examination of Kidney Biopsy Specimens of African Grey Parrots (Psittacus erithacus).

In this study we evaluated the effects of meloxicam administered at 0.5 mg/kg IM q12h for 14 days on hematologic and plasma biochemical values and on kidney tissue in 11 healthy African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus). Before treatment with meloxicam, blood samples were collected and renal biopsy samples were obtained from the cranial portion of the left kidney from each of the birds. On day 14 of treatment, a second blood sample and biopsy from the middle portion of the left kidney were obtained from each bird. All birds remained clinically normal throughout the study period. No significant differences were found between hematologic and plasma biochemical values before and after 14 days of treatment with meloxicam, except for a slight increase in median beta globulin and corresponding total globulin concentrations, and a slight decrease in median phosphorus concentration. Renal lesions were absent in 9 of 10 representative posttreatment biopsy samples. On the basis of these results, meloxicam administered at the dosage used in this study protocol does not appear to cause renal disease in African grey parrots.

Acid-base status in the avian patient using a portable point-of-care analyzer.

The i-STAT PCA can be used as a blood analyzer in critical avian patients, although single values must be interpreted carefully. The study of the acid-base status in companion birds is still in its infancy. Further research is needed to establish normal reference values in arterial blood gases, compare them with venous blood gas, and to determine if the formulas that deviate from small animal medicine are or are not applicable.

Point-of-care blood gas and electrolyte analysis in rabbits.

This article outlines a practical approach for the use of blood-gas analysis in pet rabbits using the I-STAT analyzer. Sampling techniques and a theoretic approach to diagnosis are described. The following 95% RI were obtained from venous samples of 45 healthy rabbits: pH (7.245-7.533), PCO(2) (28.9-52.9 mm Hg), HCO(3) (17.0-32.5 mmol/L), total CO(2) (18-34 mmol/L), BE(ecf) (-10-8 mmol/L), AnGap (11-26 mmol/L), Na (136-147 mmol/L), K (3.4-5.7 mmol/L), Cl (93-113 mmol/L), Glu (93-245 mg/dL), BUN (9-33 mg/dL). Results from 20 arterial samples were pH (7.358-7.502), PCO(2) (29.1-36.8 mm Hg), HCO(3) (17.5-27.6 mmol/L), BE(ecf) (-7-5 mmol/L), PO(2) (75-101 mm Hg), iCa (1.67-1.85). The article also includes some conclusions obtained comparing results from healthy and ill rabbits over an 18-month period.