Analysis of Heart Rate Variability in Newborns Dogs with Different Types of Delivery during the First 35 Days of Life.

The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of the autonomic nervous system on cardiovascular function during the first 35 days of life in different types of delivery, using heart rate variability (HRV) indices. Thirty newborns were equally divided into two groups based on delivery type: eutocic delivery (EG) and emergency cesarean section (CG). Electrocardiographic evaluation was performed at birth (T0), 24 h postpartum (T1), and at 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days of life (T2 to T6). Physical parameters, neonatal reflexes, and Apgar scores were recorded. Over 35 days, the values of the time domain indices were higher in the GE group and increased with age. In the frequency domain, the low frequency (LF) index was higher in the CG, and the opposite occurred for the high frequency (HF) index. Since the CG presented lower HRV than the EG, it was shown that the type of delivery should be considered for the assessment of autonomic nervous system activity in neonates. Thus, as predictive factors of vitality, HRV and Apgar scores can help in the face of neonatal depression, demonstrating that delivery by emergency cesarean section can predispose newborns to delays in the autonomic influence on the heart.

Tomographic evaluation of the glands and lymph nodes of the cervical region in the crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous).

The present study aimed to determine references of normality of computed tomographic (CT) images of mandibular and parotid salivary glands (PSGs), medial retropharyngeal and mandibular lymph nodes and thyroid gland of 10 clinically healthy crab-eating foxes, Cerdocyon thous. The location, shape, homogeneity of the parenchyma, and length, height, width and pre- and post-contrast attenuation values were evaluated. The anatomical structures in the crab-eating foxes studied here presented anatomical landmarks similar to those described for domestic dogs, and showed a regular shape and homogenous parenchyma, except for the PSGs, that showed predominantly heterogeneous parenchyma. The thyroid gland topography in the crab-eating fox, though very similar, is not identical to the domestic dog and the presence of isthmus between the lobes was not detected. The values obtained from crab-eating foxes are within the normal range, although in the upper limits of dogs. There was a significant difference in the attenuation values between the right and left lobes of the thyroid gland, being greater in the left thyroid lobe. CT attenuation values ranges for this neotropical canid can be incorporated into routine staging procedures in the veterinary care of the crab-eating foxes. Furthermore, the CT images obtained were similar to those of healthy dogs, and the information obtained can be considered as initial tomographic references of normality in the cervical structures of the crab-eating fox, in order to aid in the diagnosis of future diseases that can affect this neotropical canid.

Transfusion Practice: Hemolysis Markers After In Vitro Infusion of Packed Red Blood Cells by the Gravitational Method in Peripheral Catheter.

The objective of this study was to compare hemolysis marker levels after in vitro infusion of red blood cells (RBCs) according to storage time, infusion rate, and peripheral intravenous catheter size. This is an experimental study with randomly administered RBCs in quintuplicate, according to storage time shorter than and longer than 14 days, as well as infusion rate (50 mL/h and 100 mL/h) using catheters with calibers of 14-, 18-, and 20-gauge. Aliquots were collected from RBCs (V1), after equipment and catheter (V2) free-flow filling and after controlled infusion through the catheter (V3). The hemolytic markers analyzed were degree of hemolysis (%), hematocrit (Ht) (%), total hemoglobin (THb) (g/dL), free hemoglobin (FHb) (g/dL), potassium (K) (mmol/L), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (U/L), considering a probability of error ≤5%. Sixty experiments were performed with the analysis of 180 aliquots. When RBCs aged <14 days were used, all catheters tended to increase THb, FHb, and K; while >14 days, RBCs presented increased FHb and degree of hemolysis with catheters of 18-gauge and THb levels at 14-gauge. Among the conditions analyzed, only 20-gauge catheters (the smallest) did not influence changes in hemolysis markers, regardless of RBC storage time.

Long-Term Effects of Whole-Body Vibration on Hind Limb Muscles, Gait and Pain in Lame Dogs with Borderline-to-Severe Hip Dysplasia-A Pilot Study.

This pilot study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) on hind limb muscles, gait and pain in lame dogs with borderline-to-severe hip dysplasia. Ten lame client-owned dogs with borderline-to-severe hip dysplasia, aged from 1.5 to 9.0 years and weighing 14.5 to 53.0 kg, were enrolled. The WBV training program consisted of 15 min sessions three times weekly for 16 weeks. Muscles of the hind limbs were evaluated using measurements of thigh circumference, the cross-sectional thickness of selected hind limb muscles by ultrasound assessment, and vastus lateralis muscle activity determined by surface electromyography (EMG). Lameness and clinical signs of pain were assessed by visual lameness scoring, orthopedic examination and an owner-based questionnaire. Kinetic analysis was performed by using a pressure-sensitive walkway. Manual thigh circumference measurements of both hind limbs showed significant increases over the trial period with a greater degree of change observed after week 8. Ultrasound measurements of the left gluteal muscles and the quadriceps femoris muscles of both hind limbs showed significant increases in the cross-section thickness post WBV. Owner's perception of pain also showed a decrease in signs of pain at week 12 and week 16 compared to baseline. Based on graphs of the EMG activity patterns of the vastus lateralis muscle, 65% of the hind limbs had an improvement after 48 WBV sessions when compared to pre-session patterns. However, no significant differences were observed in visual lameness evaluation and kinetic analysis. Therefore, further studies will help to better clarify the role of WBV in canine rehabilitation protocols.

Ultrasound in cervical traumatic neuromas after neck dissection in thyroid carcinoma patients: descriptive analysis and diagnostic accuracy.

Objective: Cervical traumatic neuromas (CTNs) may appear after lateral neck dissection for metastatic thyroid carcinoma. If they are misdiagnosed as metastatic lymph nodes (LNs) in follow-up neck ultrasound (US), unnecessary and uncomfortable fine-needle aspiration biopsy are indicated. The present study aimed to describe US features of CTNs and to assess the US performance in distinguishing CTNs from abnormal LNs. Subjects and methods: Retrospective evaluation of neck US images of 206 consecutive patients who had lateral neck dissection as a part of thyroid cancer treatment to assess CTN´s US features. Diagnostic accuracy study to evaluate US performance in distinguishing CTNs from abnormal LNs was performed. Results: Eight-six lateral neck nodules were selected for analysis: 38 CTNs and 48 abnormal LNs. CTNs with diagnostic cytology were predominantly hypoechogenic (100% vs. 45%; P = 0.008) and had shorter diameters than inconclusive cytology CTNs: short axis (0.39 cm vs. 0.50 cm; P = 0.03) and long axis (1.64 cm vs. 2.35 cm; P = 0.021). The US features with the best accuracy to distinguish CTNs from abnormal LNs were continuity with a nervous structure, hypoechogenic internal lines, short/long axis ratio ≤ 0.42, absent Doppler vascularization, fusiform morphology, and short axis ≤ 0.48 cm. Conclusion: US is a very useful method for assessing CTNs, with good performance in distinguishing CTNs from abnormal LNs.

Brain glucose metabolism and gray matter volume in retired professional soccer players: a cross-sectional [18F]FDG-PET/MRI study.

BACKGROUND: Professional soccer athletes are exposed to repetitive head impacts and are at risk of developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate regional brain glucose metabolism (rBGM) and gray matter (GM) volume in retired soccer players (RSPs). METHODS: Male RSPs and age and sex-matched controls prospectively enrolled between 2017 and 2019 underwent neurological and neuropsychological evaluations, brain MRI and [18F]FDG-PET in a 3.0-Tesla PET/MRI scanner. Visual analysis was performed by a blinded neuroradiologist and a blinded nuclear physician. Regional brain glucose metabolism and GM volume were assessed using SPM8 software. Groups were compared using appropriate statistical tests available at SPM8 and R. RESULTS: Nineteen RSPs (median [IQR]: 62 [50-64.5] years old) and 20 controls (60 [48-73] years old) were included. Retired soccer players performed worse on mini-mental state examination, digit span, clock drawing, phonemic and semantic verbal fluency tests, and had reduced rBGM in the left temporal pole (pFDR = 0.008) and the anterior left middle temporal gyrus (pFDR = 0.043). Semantic verbal fluency correlated with rBGM in the right hippocampus, left temporal pole, and posterior left middle temporal gyrus (p ≤ 0.042). Gray matter volume reduction was observed in similar anatomic regions but was less extensive and did not survive correction for multiple comparisons (pFDR ≥ 0.085). Individual [18F]FDG-PET visual analysis revealed seven RSPs with overt hypometabolism in the medial and lateral temporal lobes, frontal lobes, and temporoparietal regions. Retired soccer players had a higher prevalence of septum pellucidum abnormalities on MRI. CONCLUSION: Retired soccer players had reduced rBGM and GM volume in the temporal lobes and septum pellucidum abnormalities, findings possibly related to repetitive head impacts.

ANTECEDENTES: Jogadores profissionais de futebol estão expostos a impactos cranianos repetitivos e ao risco de desenvolver encefalopatia traumática crônica. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o metabolismo glicolítico cerebral regional (MGCr) e o volume de substância cinzenta (vSC) em jogadores de futebol aposentados (JFAs). MéTODOS: Jogadores de futebol aposentados masculinos e controles pareados por idade e sexo foram incluídos prospectivamente entre 2017 e 2019. Foram realizadas avaliações neurológica e neuropsicológica, ressonância magnética (RM) e [18F]FDG-PET cerebrais (3.0-Tesla PET/RM). As imagens foram analisadas visualmente por um neurorradiologista e um médico nuclear cegos ao grupo de cada participante. O metabolismo glicolítico cerebral regional e o vSC foram avaliados através do programa SPM8. Os grupos foram comparados através de testes estatísticos apropriados disponíveis em SPM8 e R, de acordo com a distribuição e o tipo dos dados. RESULTADOS: Dezenove JFAs (mediana [IIQ]: 62 [50­64.5] anos) e 20 controles (60 [48­73] anos) foram incluídos. Os JFAs tiveram pior desempenho no mini-exame do estado mental e nos testes de dígitos, desenho do relógio, fluência verbal e fluência semântica e apresentaram MGCr significativamente reduzido no polo temporal e no giro temporal médio anterior esquerdos. Fluência semântica (animais) apresentou correlação positiva com MGCr no hipocampo direito, no polo temporal esquerdo e no aspecto posterior do giro temporal médio esquerdo. Menor vSC foi observado nas mesmas regiões, porém este achado não sobreviveu à correção para comparações múltiplas. Análise individual do [18F]FDG-PET cerebral revelou sete JFAs com claro hipometabolismo nas faces medial e lateral dos lobos temporais, nos lobos frontais e nas regiões temporoparietais. Os JFAs apresentaram ainda maior prevalência de anormalidades do septo pelúcido. CONCLUSãO: Os JFAs apresentam MGCr e vSC reduzidos nos lobos temporais, além de anormalidades do septo pelúcido, achados possivelmente relacionados a impactos cranianos repetitivos.

Brain glucose metabolism and gray matter volume in retired professional soccer players: a cross-sectional [18F]FDG-PET/MRI study / Metabolismo glicolítico cerebral e volume de substância cinzenta em jogadores de futebol profissionais aposentados: um estudo transversal de [18F]FDG-PET/RM

Abstract Background Professional soccer athletes are exposed to repetitive head impacts and are at risk of developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Objective To evaluate regional brain glucose metabolism (rBGM) and gray matter (GM) volume in retired soccer players (RSPs). Methods Male RSPs and age and sex-matched controls prospectively enrolled between 2017 and 2019 underwent neurological and neuropsychological evaluations, brain MRI and [18F]FDG-PET in a 3.0-Tesla PET/MRI scanner. Visual analysis was performed by a blinded neuroradiologist and a blinded nuclear physician. Regional brain glucose metabolism and GM volume were assessed using SPM8 software. Groups were compared using appropriate statistical tests available at SPM8 and R. Results Nineteen RSPs (median [IQR]: 62 [50-64.5] years old) and 20 controls (60 [48-73] years old) were included. Retired soccer players performed worse on mini-mental state examination, digit span, clock drawing, phonemic and semantic verbal fluency tests, and had reduced rBGM in the left temporal pole (pFDR = 0.008) and the anterior left middle temporal gyrus (pFDR = 0.043). Semantic verbal fluency correlated with rBGM in the right hippocampus, left temporal pole, and posterior left middle temporal gyrus (p ≤ 0.042). Cray matter volume reduction was observed in similar anatomic regions but was less extensive and did not survive correction for multiple comparisons (pFDR ≥ 0.085). Individual [18F]FDG-PET visual analysis revealed seven RSPs with overt hypometabolism in the medial and lateral temporal lobes, frontal lobes, and temporoparietal regions. Retired soccer players had a higher prevalence of septum pellucidum abnormalities on MRI. Conclusion Retired soccer players had reduced rBCM and CM volume in the temporal lobes and septum pellucidum abnormalities, findings possibly related to repetitive head impacts.

Resumo Antecedentes Jogadores profissionais de futebol estão expostos a impactos cranianos repetitivos e ao risco de desenvolver encefalopatia traumática crônica. Objetivo Avaliar o metabolismo glicolítico cerebral regional (MCCr) e o volume de substância cinzenta (vSC) em jogadores de futebol aposentados (JFAs). Métodos Jogadores de futebol aposentados masculinos e controles pareados por idade e sexo foram incluídos prospectivamente entre 2017 e 2019. Foram realizadas avaliações neurológica e neuropsicológica, ressonância magnética (RM) e [18F]FDG-PET cerebrais (3.0-Tesla PET/RM). As imagens foram analisadas visualmente por um neurorradiologista e um médico nuclear cegos ao grupo de cada participante. O metabolismo glicolítico cerebral regional e o vSC foram avaliados através do programa SPM8. Os grupos foram comparados através de testes estatísticos apropriados disponíveis em SPM8 e R, de acordo com a distribuição e o tipo dos dados. Resultados Dezenove JFAs (mediana [IIQ]: 62 [50-64.5] anos) e 20 controles (60 [48-73] anos) foram incluídos. Os JFAs tiveram pior desempenho no mini-exame do estado mental e nos testes de dígitos, desenho do relógio, fluência verbal e fluência semântica e apresentaram MCCr significativamente reduzido no polo temporal e no giro temporal médio anterior esquerdos. Fluência semântica (animais) apresentou correlação positiva com MCCr no hipocampo direito, no polo temporal esquerdo e no aspecto posterior do giro temporal médio esquerdo. Menor vSC foi observado nas mesmas regiões, porém este achado não sobreviveu à correção para comparações múltiplas. Análise individual do [18F]FDG-PET cerebral revelou sete JFAs com claro hipometabolismo nas faces medial e lateral dos lobos temporais, nos lobos frontais e nas regiões temporoparietais. Os JFAs apresentaram ainda maior prevalência de anormalidades do septo pelúcido. Conclusão Os JFAs apresentam MCCr e vSC reduzidos nos lobos temporais, além de anormalidades do septo pelúcido, achados possivelmente relacionados a impactos cranianos repetitivos.

Electrocardiographic and Echocardiographic Parameters in Pega Breed Donkeys: A Descriptive Study.

Clinical, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic parameters in Pega donkeys are scarce in the literature; hence, this study was performed to describe the echocardiographic and electrocardiographic measurements in Pega breed donkeys. The objectives of this study were to describe and illustrate the clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic parameters in Pega donkeys used for reproduction. Fifty Pega breed donkeys were evaluated, with an average age of 3.4 years and with 20 males and 30 females. In each animal, the electrocardiographic examination at rest was performed using the TEB® computerized system, and the echocardiographic examination was performed using an ultrasound device with a Doppler function multifrequency sectorial transducer in 2D mode (Sonosite® M turbo). Standardizing the electrocardiographic and echocardiographic parameters for the Pega breed donkey can contribute to future assessments regarding possible changes that excessive effort can promote in these parameters to a management engrossed on animal welfare.

Ultrasound in cervical traumatic neuromas after neck dissection in thyroid carcinoma patients: descriptive analysis and diagnostic accuracy

ABSTRACT Objective: Cervical traumatic neuromas (CTNs) may appear after lateral neck dissection for metastatic thyroid carcinoma. If they are misdiagnosed as metastatic lymph nodes (LNs) in follow-up neck ultrasound (US), unnecessary and uncomfortable fine-needle aspiration biopsy are indicated. The present study aimed to describe US features of CTNs and to assess the US performance in distinguishing CTNs from abnormal LNs. Subjects and methods: Retrospective evaluation of neck US images of 206 consecutive patients who had lateral neck dissection as a part of thyroid cancer treatment to assess CTN's US features. Diagnostic accuracy study to evaluate US performance in distinguishing CTNs from abnormal LNs was performed. Results: Eight-six lateral neck nodules were selected for analysis: 38 CTNs and 48 abnormal LNs. CTNs with diagnostic cytology were predominantly hypoechogenic (100% vs. 45%; P = 0.008) and had shorter diameters than inconclusive cytology CTNs: short axis (0.39 cm vs. 0.50 cm; P = 0.03) and long axis (1.64 cm vs. 2.35 cm; P = 0.021). The US features with the best accuracy to distinguish CTNs from abnormal LNs were continuity with a nervous structure, hypoechogenic internal lines, short/long axis ratio ≤ 0.42, absent Doppler vascularization, fusiform morphology, and short axis ≤ 0.48 cm. Conclusion: US is a very useful method for assessing CTNs, with good performance in distinguishing CTNs from abnormal LNs.

Influence of Dorper lamb development from birth to 120 days of age on clinical and echocardiographic parameters.

The expansion of the sheep model in research represents an attractive and economically beneficial academic reason for investigations in sheep echocardiography. The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical and echocardiographic parameters in Dorper lambs during the developmental period. Emphasis was placed on the use of the species in translational research for the echocardiographic diagnosis of congenital heart diseases, which can contribute to improvements in interventionist techniques. Ten Dorper lambs were evaluated at the following time points: 24 h after birth and 7, 14, 21, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days of age. Clinical parameters were compiled, and echocardiogram records were obtained without sedation. Rectal temperature was lower on the first day compared to the others. From 21 days of life, there was a reduction in HR, with differences between time points. Mean and systolic blood pressure differed, with the highest values at 90 and 120 days of age. The thickness of the interventricular septum in diastole (IVSd) increased as age progressed, with the highest value at 120 days of age, and the same occurred for LVIDd (left ventricle internal diameter in diastole), LVFWd (left ventricular free wall thickness in diastole), IVSs (interventricular septum thickness in systole), LVIDs (left ventricle internal diameter in systole) and LVFWs (left ventricular free wall thickness in systole). There were differences in the size of the LA, Ao and LA/Ao ratio, which were greater at 90 days and 120 days of age. Echocardiographic changes accompany the development of lambs, where changes in echocardiographic parameters are evident with advancing age. The echocardiographic measurements in lambs obtained in the present study are similar to those in newborns.

Topics in the routine assessment of newborn kitten vitality: Apgar score, reflexes and complementary assessments.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to perform neonatal clinical assessments at birth to identify newborn kittens at risk according to type of delivery, thus allowing immediate intervention and increasing their chances of survival. METHODS: This study compared Apgar scores, reflexes and clinical parameters (temperature, weight, blood glucose and peripheral oxygen saturation [SpO2]) between eutocic neonates and those delivered by emergency cesarean section. The animals were evaluated at birth and after 10 and 60 mins. RESULTS: Thirty-two neonates were evaluated, with 19 animals in the eutocic group (EG) and 13 animals in the cesarean group (CG). When comparing groups, CG neonates had significantly lower Apgar scores (P <0.0001), lower SpO2 (P = 0.0535), higher blood glucose (P = 0.0009), reduced reflexes (P <0.0001) and lower respiratory rates (P <0.0001) at birth and after 10 and 60 mins than EG neonates. Apgar scores positively correlated with parameters such as heart rate, reflex score, SpO2 and weight. The mortality rate in evaluated newborns was 15.6% (5/32). The early mortality rate (0-2 days old) was 80% (4/5) and the late mortality rate (3-30 days old) was 20% (1/5). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: This study showed lower vitality in cats delivered by emergency cesarean section than in those delivered through eutocic birth. In general, neonates delivered by cesarean section have greater depression and low vitality at birth and may require advanced resuscitation procedures. The evaluations carried out in this study identified newborns with low vitality and those requiring advanced resuscitation, thus allowing immediate intervention. Apgar and reflex scores for feline neonates were suggested. Newborn-specific clinical assessment with these feline vitality scores allows the identification of at-risk neonates. Care immediately after birth increases the chance of survival among these patients.

Educação tecnológica hibrida blended learning adesão ao paciente hipertenso: ensaio clinico randomizado / Hybrid technology education blended learning hypertension patient support: randomized clinical trial

Avaliar a influência do uso da tecnologia educacional híbrida blended learning (ensino presencial associado por meio do ambiente virtual de aprendizado "E-Care da Hipertensão") na melhoria do controle da pressão arterial. Métodos: Ensaio Clinico Randomizado Controlado, realizado no período de novembro de 2015 a março de 2016,dividido em dois grupos: a) Grupo Hibrido com 14 pacientes submetidos a orientação individual por meio da consulta de Enfermagem a cada 20 dias com a utilização do recurso tecnológico educacional digital "E-Care da Hipertensão" ; b) Grupo Controle com 16 pacientes em que se utilizou da consulta com orientação individual por meio da consulta de Enfermagem a cada 20 dias sem o uso da tecnologia educacional. Os grupos foram acompanhados por 120 dias, utilizando o Teste de Morisk-Green, e exame da MAPA e WHOQOL-bref na randomização e aos 120 dias. Resultados: Para o Grupo Hibrido quando realizadas as comparações no início do estudo (momento da randomização) ao final 120 dias observou-se diferenças estatísticas em relação a diversas variáveis, a saber: a) circunferência abdominal, na randomização 99,61±10 vs. 96,69±8 (p=0,006); b) em relação a MAPA na pressão arterial sistólica PAS de vigília (PAS) 159,61±15mmHg vs. 143,30±19mmHg (p=< 0,001); c) pressão arterial diastólica na vigília (PAD) 106,61±12mmHg vs. 95,92±15mmHg (p= < 0,001); d) quanto a carga pressórica da MAPA na randomização para PAS na vigília obteve-se 93,28±7mmHg vs. 66,38±31mmHg (p=0,003); e) quanto aos valores da PAD 92,63±11mmHg vs. 70,96±28mmHg (p=0,002). Conclusão: Não foram observadas diferenças significativas nos resultados analisados em 120 dias com o uso da tecnologia educacional na modalidade hibrida quando comparada com o grupo controle que realizou apenas consulta individual pelo enfermeiro

The Hypertension is a chronic manageable, however, in clinical practice several difficulties in joining the therapeutic plan. In this regard, several studies analyze the influence of different educational technologies in therapeutic adhesion, but little is known about educational technology hybrid. Objective: Evaluate the influence of the use of educational technology hybrid (face-to-face education associated through the virtual environment of learning "E-Care of hypertension") in improving blood pressure control. Method: Clinical Randomized Controlled Study divided into two groups: the Hybrid Group with 14) patients undergoing individual guidance through the nursing consultation every 20 days with the use of educational technology digital feature "E-Care of hypertension"; In hybrid mode b) control group with 16 patients in which the query was used with individual guidance through the nursing consultation every 20 days without the use of educational technology. All patients in both groups were followed for 120 days and 7 queries. The research took place in the period of December 2014 to March 2017. Approved by the CEP under CAAE 08625112.7.0000.0068. Results: There were no differences with statistical significance between the groups on randomization and at the end of 120 days as socio demographic and hemodynamic variables. However when held Control Group comparison in 120 days and randomization in relation to your perception about the WHOQOL quality of lifestatistical difference was observed between the beginning of the study (randomization) 2,73±0,9 vs. 3,80±0,94 to 120 days (p=0,012). For the Hybrid Group when performed comparisons at the beginning of the study (time of randomization) the end 120 days statistics differences were observed in relation to several variables, namely: a) abdominal circumference the randomization 99,61±10 vs. 96,69±8 (p=0,006); b) for Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) in systolic blood pressure, SBP in awake 159.61± 15mmHg vs. 143.30 ± 19mmHg (p = < 0.001); c) diastolic blood pressure (DBP) on the eve 106,61±12mmHg vs. 95,92±15mmHg (p = < 0,001);d) as the pressure load of the (ABPM) on randomization to SBP on vigiía was obtained 93,28±7mmHg vs. 66,38±31mmHg (p=0,003); e) as for the values of the SBP 92,63±11mmHg vs. 70,96±28mmHg (p=0,002); f) for the period of sleep SBP obtained value of 140,61± 15mmHg vs. 131,38± 21mmHg (p = 0,044); g) with respect to DBP the values were 86,37± 24mmHg vs. 71,06±31mmHg (p=0,039). As for the test of Morisky-Gren, was not with statistical significance differences between the Hybrid Group and the Control Group. Conclusion: There were no significant differences in the results analyzed in 120 days with the use of educational technology in hybrid mode when compared with the control group which held only individual consultation by a nurse. On the other hand, the comparison between the study group itself, proved to be effective with satisfactory results and may be an alternative to be perfected as an educational tool

Longitudinal assessment of magnetization transfer ratio, brain volume, and cognitive functions in diffuse axonal injury.

BACKGROUND: Diffuse axonal injury (DAI) is a frequent mechanism of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that triggers a sequence of parenchymal changes that progresses from focal axonal shear injuries up to inflammatory response and delayed axonal disconnection. OBJECTIVE: The main purpose of this study is to evaluate changes in the axonal/myelinic content and the brain volume up to 12 months after TBI and to correlate these changes with neuropsychological results. METHODS: Patients with DAI (n = 25) were scanned at three time points after trauma (2, 6, and 12 months), and the total brain volume (TBV), gray matter volume, and white matter volume (WMV) were calculated in each time point. The magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) for the total brain (TB MTR), gray matter (GM MTR), and white matter (WM MTR) was also quantified. In addition, Hopkins verbal learning test (HVLT), Trail Making Test (TMT), and Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure test were performed at 6 and 12 months after the trauma. RESULTS: There was a significant reduction in the mean TBV, WMV, TB MTR, GM MTR, and WM MTR between time points 1 and 3 (p < .05). There was also a significant difference in HVLT-immediate, TMT-A, and TMT-B scores between time points 2 and 3. The MTR decline correlated more with the cognitive dysfunction than the volume reduction. CONCLUSION: A progressive axonal/myelinic rarefaction and volume loss were characterized, especially in the white matter (WM) up to 1 year after the trauma. Despite that, specific neuropsychological tests revealed that patients' episodic verbal memory, attention, and executive function improved during the study. The current findings may be valuable in developing long-term TBI rehabilitation management programs.

Normal echocardiographic and radiographic reference values for crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) anesthetized with ketamine and midazolam.

The cardiac evaluation of wild animals is still a wide and largely unknown field for several species. Therefore, through complimentary examinations such as radiography, echocardiography and serum troponin levels, this study aimed at describing the values observed in 12 crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous) anesthetized with a combination of intramuscular ketamine and midazolam. Thus, through complementary exams such as radiography, echocardiography and serum troponin levels, the aim of this study was to describe the cardiac values in 12 wild foxes (C. thous) anesthetized with an intramuscular injection of ketamine and midazolam. After anaesthetization, the radiographic, echocardiographic and immunoenzymatic reference values for the 12 males in the sample group were determined. Compared with those in domestic canids, there was a decrease in the sizes of the septum, wall and left ventricular cavity as well as decreases in the transmitral blood flow velocity indices, correlated with preserved serum cardiac troponin (cTnI) levels. Thus, M-mode echocardiography proved to be safer, with results that were comparative to those for other species of wild canids with indexed values. In addition, when evaluating the systolic function and segmentary contractions, the anesthetic combination did not have any effects on the results of complementary examinations performed in crab-eating foxes (C. thous) included in this study.

Seminal Plasma Does Not Influence Canine Semen Stored at 5°C for Long-Term Conservation.

Seminal plasma has several components that protect the sperm cells and assist in the fertilization process. In contrast, the exact role carried out by seminal plasma during the cooling of canine semen remains controversial. Moreover, concerning the long estrus period, the possibility to store chilled semen at 5°C for more than 72 hours and maintain good sperm quality for additional inseminations could increase fertilization rates. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the seminal plasma influence on quality and oxidative stress of the extended canine semen stored at 5°C for 7 days. Three ejaculate pools from eight healthy dogs were collected by digital manipulation of the penis. The sperm kinetics, sperm vitality (eosin/nigrosin stain), integrity of plasma and acrosomal membranes, morphology, superoxide and hydrogen peroxide production, mitochondrial potential, lipid peroxidation, and oxygen reactive species production (induced and spontaneous thiobarbituric acid [thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS] assay) were evaluated every 48 hours (M0, M48, M96, and M168) until 7 days (168 hours) in cooled extended (TRIS egg yolk) semen of dogs at 5°C with (+SP) or without (-SP) autologous seminal plasma. No statistical difference was found for sperm kinetics in cooled samples with +SP and -SP during the experimental time period, except for the progressive motility of +SP samples that was higher at M48 than M96 (p = 0.023). The seminal plasma did not influence any other evaluated sperm characteristics. Finally, our results demonstrated that the presence or lack of seminal plasma during cooling the semen of dogs does not influence sperm quality at 5°C. Moreover, the components of the semen extender may contribute to maintaining good sperm quality and low reactive oxygen species production during the long period of the dog's semen cooling, even after semen centrifugation.

Use of hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone acetonide or ozone gas in the treatment of induced osteoarthritis in rabbits.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of the intra-articular application of hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone acetonide, and ozone gas in the treatment of induced osteoarthritis in rabbit's stifles. METHODS: Twenty-one Norfolk rabbits were submitted to cranial cruciate ligament transection of the left stifle. After six weeks of the surgery, the rabbits were randomized assigned into three groups: G1 (control) - saline solution (0.9%); G2 - hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone; G3 - ozone gas, submitted to three intra-articular applications every seven days. RESULTS: Significant differences occurred: osteophytes at medial femoral condyle (G2 > G1, G2 > G3) on radiography exam; thickening of the medial condyle (G1 > G3, G2 > G3) on ultrasound exam; osteophytes at lateral tibial condyle (G2 > G1, G2 > G3), and medial femoral condyle (G1 > G2, G3 > G1) on computed tomography. Histologically, mean values of chondrocytes in the femur and tibia in G3 and G2 were statistically lower. CONCLUSIONS: The intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid associated with triamcinolone accentuated degenerative joint disease by imaging and macroscopic evaluations, and by histological findings, this treatment and the ozone gas treatment showed similar effects and were inferior to the saline solution (0.9%).

Neonatal Transfusion Practice: Hemolysis Markers After In Vitro Infusion of Packed Red Blood Cells by the Gravitational Method or Syringe Pump in a Peripheral Catheter.

The objective of this study was to verify the influence of the gravitational infusion method or syringe infusion pump on changes in hemolysis markers of irradiated and nonirradiated packed red blood cells (PRBCs) in vitro administered in a neonate peripheral intravenous catheter. An experimental study was conducted in a laboratory under controlled environmental conditions. Irradiated and nonirradiated PRBCs were administered in triplicate by the gravitational method and 10-mL/hour syringe infusion pump, in peripheral intravenous catheter, Vialon, 24-G caliber. Aliquots were collected directly from the PRBC bag, after manual filling of the infusion system and after infusion by the catheters. The following hemolytic markers were analyzed: degree of hemolysis (%), hematocrit (Ht, %), free hemoglobin (fHb, g/dL), potassium (K, mmol/L), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH, U/L). Mann-Whitney and Student's t tests were used, P ≤ .05. The gravitational method significantly influenced increasing fHb (P = .007), Ht (P = .002), K (P = .002), and LDH (P = .003) values after PRBC irradiated infusion. The infusion of irradiated and non-irradiated PRBCs interferes with changes in hemolytic markers with the gravitational method. Syringe infusion pump proved to be a beneficial and safe alternative to irradiated and nonirradiated PRBC transfusion in newborns.

Joint involvement in canine visceral leishmaniasis: Orthopedic physical examination, radiographic and computed tomographic findings.

This study aimed to evaluate the joint involvement in dogs with visceral leishmaniasis by means of orthopedic physical examination, radiographic and computed tomographic (CT) findings. Of the 46 evaluated dogs, an overall of 91.3 % presented joint (carpal, tarsal, elbows, and stifle) abnormalities, observed on physical examination, radiography and/or CT. In 67.3 % of the dogs orthopedic examination showed no abnormalities. Among the 31 dogs with normal orthopedic examination, 61.3 % showed radiographic and CT findings suggestive of osteoarthritis, 25.8 % presented normal radiographs with abnormalities evidenced only on CT, while 12.9 % presented normal radiographs and CT imaging. From the 15 dogs with abnormal orthopedic examination, 80 % had abnormal radiographic and CT findings suggestive of osteoarthritis, while 20 % presented normal radiographs with abnormalities evidenced only in their CT. Radiographic and CT findings included evident trabecular pattern, subchondral bone sclerosis, osteolysis, mixed bone lesions (osteolytic-proliferative lesions), soft tissue swelling around the joint (edema), joint space narrowing, bone proliferation, osteophytes, bone cyst and cartilage flap. Based on CT results the most affected joints, among those assessed, were the tarsal (80.9 %), followed by stifle (78.5 %), carpal (64.2 %), and elbows (54.7 %). Except by one dog that presented only one stifle joint compromised, the other three joints presented bilateral abnormalities in all dogs.

Quasi-Experimental study of effects of lighting on rest, activity and melatonin in postpartum women.

OBJECTIVES: to compare the parameters of the activity/rest cycle of early postpartum breastfeeding women under a controlled and uncontrolled long wavelength ray light regimen. METHODS: quasi-experimental study with breastfeeding women and their babies during postnatal rooming-in, São Paulo, Brazil. Participants were allocated to either an experimental (intervention) or a comparison group. The intervention involved exposure of the woman in a controlled room with artificial long wavelength ray light at night. Each woman's level of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin at 24 hours and activity/rest times was analyzed. RESULTS: the mean activity/rest times of women in the experimental and comparison groups were similar. The mean percentages of total load of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin during the day and night were similar (p=0.09). At 24 hours, the experimental group presented a significantly lower mean percentage of total load compared to the comparison group (p=0.04). CONCLUSIONS: women who stayed in the room with long-wavelength artificial light showed no difference in activity/rest and 6-sulfatoxymelatonin levels in the early postpartum period.

Serum Cortisol and Clinical Response to a Single Session of Whole-Body Vibration in Healthy Adult Dogs.

This study evaluated the serum cortisol response to a single session of whole-body vibration (WBV) in healthy adult dogs. Ten healthy adult medium dogs, females and males, aged between 24 and 48 months and with body weight between 10.1 and 17.9 kg were used. A single WBV session at a frequency of 30 Hz for 5 min (3.10 mm peak displacement, 11.16 m/s2 peak acceleration, and 0.29 m/s velocity), then 50 Hz for 5 min (3.98 mm peak displacement, 39.75 m/s2 peak acceleration, and 0.62 m/s velocity), and finishing with 30 Hz for 5 min (3.10 mm peak displacement, 11.16 m/s2 peak acceleration, and 0.29 m/s velocity) was performed. Serum cortisol, heart and respiratory rate, and systolic blood pressure were evaluated at different time points: 1 min before WBV (1PRE) and 1 min (1POST), 60 min (60POST), and 360 min (360POST) after the WBV session. An increase (P = 0.0417) of the serum cortisol values was observed between 1PRE and 1POST and a decrease (P = 0.0417) between 1POST and 60POST and between 60POST and 360POST. However, the values remained within the reference range. The heart and respiratory rate and the systolic blood pressure remained unchanged. Our findings suggest that a single bout of WBV (5 min of 30 and 50 Hz) using a vibrating platform that delivered a vortex wave circulation does not modify the serum cortisol levels and clinical parameters of healthy adult dogs.