Renal biomarkers, clinical parameters, and renal Doppler velocimetry in bitches with cystic endometrial hyperplasia-pyometra complex.

Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH)-pyometra complex is the most common uterine infection in adult and elderly bitches and can cause renal dysfunction. The aim of this study was to measure and compare urinary creatinine, urea, symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), urinary protein-creatinine ratio (UPC), measurement of systolic blood pressure (SBP), and Doppler velocimetry of renal arteries in patients with CEH-pyometra complex before and after an average of 6 months of treatment, evaluating the possibility of the changes persisting. The evaluation was conducted at two moments: M1 (at the diagnosis of CEH-pyometra, n = 36) and M2 (after an average of six months of treatment, n = 16). For the control group, eight bitches with no changes in blood tests or history of conditions underwent Doppler ultrasound evaluation of the renal arteries. At both M1 and M2, we measured creatinine, urea, and serum SDMA, UPC, SBP, and Doppler ultrasound of the renal arteries. Patients were evaluated according to the following groups: azotemic (AZO) and non-azotemic (NAZO), and open and closed cervix pyometra. The parameters were compared between animals present in both moments presented as M1R (bitches that were in M1 and M2) and M2. Statistical significance was considered when p < .05. The medians found for creatinine in M1 were as follows: 1.15 mg/dL, being 1.8 mg/dL for AZO (12/36) and 0.95 mg/dL for NAZO (24/36); and in M2: 0.85 mg/dL (16/16), being 1.15 mg/dL for AZO (4/16) and 0.8 mg/dL for NAZO (12/36). For urea, in M1 it was 36 mg/dL (32/36), with AZO being 103 mg/dL (11/32) and 33 mg/dL in NAZO (21/32); and in M2 32 mg/dL (16/ 16), being 29 mg/dL for AZO (4/36), and 31 mg/dL for NAZO (3/15). The median SDMA measured in M1R was 17 µg/dL (15/16), with AZO being 31 µg/dL (3/15), and NAZO being 16.5 µg/dL (12/15); and in M2, SDMA was 12 µg/dL (16/16), with AZO being 12.5 µg/dL (4/16), and NAZO being 12 µg/dL (12/16). The median UPC measured in M1 was 1.15 (10/36), with AZO being 0.25 (1/10), and NAZO being 1.38 (9/10); and in M2, it was 0.2 (13/16), being 0.1 in AZO (4/13), and 0.2 (9/16) in NAZO. For SBP, in M1, it was 118 mmHg (30/36), with AZO being 102 mmHg (10/30) and 133 mmHg in NAZO (20/30); and in M2 142.5 mmHg (12/16), being 155 mmHg for AZO (4/12), and 140 mg/dL for NAZO (8/12). When comparing animals with open and closed cervixes, a difference was found between SDMA measurements (p = .001). There was a distinction between PI and RI of the left and right kidneys consecutively (p = .007; p = .033; p = .019; p = .041). Correlations found in M1: SDMA × PI RIM DIR (r = 0.873; p = .002), SDMA × PSV RIM ESQ (r = 0.840; p = .004), SDMA × EDV RIM ESQ (r = 0.675; p = .046). With this study, we conclude a return to normality of renal biomarkers and clinical parameters after six months. Yet, there is a persistence of Doppler velocimetric measurements between the two moments. Thus, this parameter is not suitable for identifying and classifying chronic kidney injury in bitches with pyometra.

Comparison of two pharmacological semen collection times with α2-adrenergic agonist in domestic cats.

The use of α2-adrenergic agonists in association with urethral catheterization has been used as a technique for pharmacological semen collection in cats. The mechanism of action of this drug is the stimulation of adrenoreceptors in the vas deferens, which results in ejaculation. While medetomidine is the α2-agonist most commonly used in studies, ejaculation with the use of dexmedetomidine associated with ketamine has been effective, but with variable results. Therefore, further studies regarding the methodology of use are required to obtain better seminal quality. This study aimed to compare two pharmacological semen collection times after the association of dexmedetomidine (30 µg/kg, IM; Dormitor®, Zoetis), ketamine (5 mg/kg, IM; ketamine, Vetnil) and urethral catheterization using a tomcat probe (0.8 mm × 1.00 mm × 11 cm). The collections were divided into two experimental groups: G10 (N = 8; urethral catheterization after 10 min of anaesthesia) and G15 (N = 8; urethral catheterization after 15 min of anaesthesia). The ejaculates were evaluated for ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, morphology and kinetics using the CASA system. To compare the groups, the t-test and the Mann-Whitney U-test were used with a significance level of 5%. It was identified that ejaculate volume (G10: 22.62 ± 2.13 vs. G15: 26.81 ± 1.55; p < .001) and sperm concentration (G10: 48.10 × 106 ± 17.84 vs. G15: 90.18 × 106 ± 19.35; p < .001) was higher in G15 than in G10 and had a lower percentage of minor defects than G10 (G10: 3.12 ± 2.41 vs. G15: 1.00 ± 1.19; p = .043). Regarding the kinetic parameters, the results of G15 were better for total motility-TM (G10: 67.00 ± 10.33 vs. G15: 81.87 ± 7.99; p = .006) and faster cells-RAPID: (G10: 55.00 ± 16.63 vs. G15: 74.25 ± 11.94; p = .019); whereas a higher proportion of cells with slow speed-SLOW were seen in G10 (G10: 31.00 ± 12.07 vs. 17.12 ± 7.53; p = .015). Based on these findings, we suggest that collection via urethral catheterization should be performed 15 min after the application of ketamine-associated dexmedetomidine to obtain a better-quality ejaculate.

Casos clínicos de infertilidade em gatos / Clinical cases of infertility in cats

A criação comercial de gato doméstico tem aumentado assim como a realização de estudos para melhorar a eficiência reprodutiva é uma realidade. O interesse pela identificação das falhas reprodutivas tem crescido, entretanto, os casos de infertilidade nos machos são escassos na literatura disponível. O histórico de infertilidade de um gato deve ser investigado cuidadosamente, pois pode estar associado a mudanças no manejo ou doenças. O diagnóstico dessas 'falhas reprodutivas' geralmente é simples, se realizada uma boa anamnese, exames, físico e andrológico, minuciosos, assim como exames complementares, entre eles hemograma completo, perfil bioquímico e testes para doenças infecciosas como FIV, FELV e FIP.(AU)

Commercial breeding of domestic cats has increased, and studies to improve reproductive efficiency are a reality. Interest in identifying reproductive failures has increased, however, cases of infertility in men are scarce in the available literature. A cat's history of infertility should be investigated carefully as it may be associated with changes in management or illness. The diagnosis of these 'reproductive failures' is usually simple if a good anamnesis, thorough physical and andrological examinations are carried out, in addition to complementary tests, including complete blood count, biochemical profile, tests for infectious diseases such as FIV, FELV, FIP.(AU)

Fecal microbiota profile of ovariohysterectomized cats submitted to estrogen replacement / Perfil da microbiota fecal de gatas ovariohisterectomizadas submetidas à reposição estrogênica

This study aimed to observe the effects of 17 ß-estradiol replacements on the fecal microbiota in spayed cats. Individual samples of fresh feces were collected and stored at -80° C. Sequencing of the V3/V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene was used, and bioinformatic analysis was performed. Firmicutes/Bacteriodetes ratio was lower in the group receiving estrogen replacement compared to the SHAM group (P = 0,005). Jaccard index (P = 0.123) and Yue & Clayton index (P = 0.094) did not reveal alpha and beta diversity differences. The linear discriminant analysis effect size (LefSe) identified Firmicutes and MegasPhaera as the biomarkers for the SHAM group, and Burkholderiales, Betaproteobacteria, Sutterellaceae, Suterella, Proteobacteria, Proteobacteria unclassified and Collinsella for the group receiving estrogen replacement.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi observar os efeitos da reposição de 17 ß-estradiol na microbiota fecal de gatas castradas. Amostras individuais de fezes frescas foram colhidas e armazenadas a -80°C. Foi realizado o sequenciamento das regiões V3/V4 do gene 16S rRNA e a análise bioinformática. A razão Firmicutes/Bacteriodetes foi menor no grupo que recebeu reposição estrogênica em comparação ao grupo SHAM (P = 0,005). O índice de Jaccard (P = 0,123) e o índice de Yue & Clayton (P = 0,094) não revelaram diferenças na alfa e beta diversidade. A análise discriminatória linear de tamanho do efeito (LefSe) identificou Firmicutes e Megasphaera como biomarcadores para o grupo SHAM, e Burkholderiales, Betaproteobacteria, Sutterellaceae, Suterella, Proteobacteria, Proteobacteria não classificada e Collinsella para o grupo que recebeu reposição estrogênica.(AU)

The proAKAP4 concentrations in Nelore bull sperm and their relation to FTAI conception rate results.

The AKAP4 protein has an essential role in sperm motility, and its precursor, the proAKAP4, is considered a biomarker for sperm quality and fertility. Despite this, proAKAP4 concentration was never evaluated in Bos indicus sperm. Therefore, this study aims to determine the proAKAP4 concentration in the sperm of Nellore bulls and its association with sperm kinetics, morpho-functionality, morphology, and conception rates after fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). The bulls (n = 9) used in our study presented sperm characteristics above expected standards for quality. Sperm from each bull was evaluated regarding kinetics by the CASA system, and assessed for mitochondrial functionality, sperm membrane integrity, and morphology. For the FTAI protocol, multiparous Nelore cows (n = 1507) were inseminated with frozen-thawed sperm from the same batches used in the laboratory analysis. Additionally, the sperm proAKAP4 concentration was determined using an ELISA kit. The data were analyzed by linear regression and the significance level was set to 5%. The mean conception rate was 52.52%. The mean proAKAP4 concentration was 25.75 ng/106 spermatozoa. The proAKAP4 concentration positively affected the sperm total and progressive motilities, and conception rates after FTAI (respectively, r2 = 0.49, P = 0.03; r2 = 0.63, P = 0.01; and r2 = 0.51, P = 0.03). Based on the relationship detected in this study, we conclude that the sperm proAKAP4 concentration is a suitable biomarker to predict the quality and fertility of frozen-thawed Bos indicus semen.

Ultrassonografia em modo B e Doppler para avaliação reprodutiva de cães e gatos / B-mode and Doppler ultrasound for reproductive assessment of dogs and cats

A ultrassonografia do sistema reprodutivo é uma importante ferramenta utilizada em associação ao exame andrológico para avaliação de machos reprodutores. Novas modalidades de análise ultrassonográfica foram descritas na última década, como a análise Doppler da artéria testicular. O objetivo deste texto é apresentar estas modalidades com o intuito de acrescentar informações importantes ao exame andrológico de cães e gatos.

The ultrasound of the reproductive system is an important tool used in association with the andrological examination to evaluate reproductive males. New modalities of ultrasound analysis have been described in the last decade, such as the Doppler analysis of the testicular artery. The objective of this text is to present these tools in order to add important information to the andrological examination of dogs and cats.

Sperm filtration as an alternative technique for seminal plasma separation in boars / Filtração de ejaculados suínos como alternativa para a separação do plasma seminal

The present study aimed to evaluate the filtration for separating seminal plasma of boars' ejaculate by means of sperm viability and the occurrence of hyperactivation and lipid peroxidation in fresh semen and after cooling for up to 96 hours. The ejaculate of eight healthy boars of different breeds was collected and the gelatinous portion was separated and discarded. In the laboratory, the semen was fractioned into three aliquots (groups G1, G2 and G3) as follows: G1: semen with plasma diluted in BTS (TOTAL BTS); G2: semen centrifuged at 600G/10' (BTS CEN); and G3: semen filtered with the Sperm-filter® following dilution of the retained cells with BTS (BTS FIL). The analyses were performed at three moments: with fresh samples (D0) and after 48 (D2) and 96 hours (D4) of cooling at 17ºC. The kinetic evaluation was performed using the CASA system, which provided data for the classification of sperm hyperactivity. For lipid stress analysis, the TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substance) test was performed. The variance analysis test was conducted to compare the results between the groups and moments analyzed. The results showed better total motility values (%) for G1 at D0 (67.9, P= 0.001), D2 (36.6, P= 0.004) and D4 (26.1, P= 0.003). The occurrence of hyperactivity was observed in G2 and G3 at moments D2 and D4. In addition, TBARS showed higher peroxidation levels for G1 at D0 (8.1 mM MDA/ml, P= 0.01), D2 (7.4 mM MDA/ml, P= 0.02), and D4 (6.41mMol MDA/ml, P= 0.008) when compared to G2 and G3. Since the filtration method did not demonstrate any damage to the sperm viability, the study concluded that sperm filtration is an accessible and valid tool to replace centrifugation.(AU)

O presente estudo objetivou avaliar a filtração como alternativa para a separação do plasma seminal de ejaculados suínos, ao considerar a viabilidade espermática por meio da ocorrência de hiperativação e peroxidação lipídica no sêmen fresco e após refrigeração por até 96 horas. O ejaculado, de oito cachaços saudáveis de diferentes raças, foram colhidos por meio da técnica da mão enluvada e porção gelatinosa foi separada e descartada. Em laboratório, o sêmen foi fracionado em três alíquotas (grupos G1, G2 e G3) da seguinte forma: G1: sêmen e plasma seminal, diluído em BTS (TOTAL BTS); G2: ejaculado centrifugado a 600G/10' para separação do plasma seminal, e o pellet de espermatozoides formados foram ressuspensos em BTS (BTS CEN); e G3: sêmen filtrado com Sperm-filter®, e espermatozoides retidos foram diluídos em BTS (BTS FIL). As análises foram realizadas em três momentos: amostras frescas (D0), após 48 horas (D2) e seguidas 96 horas (D4) de refrigeração a 17ºC. A avaliação cinética foi realizada pelo sistema CASA, que forneceu dados para a classificação da hiperatividade espermática. Para análise de estresse lipídico, foi realizado o teste TBARS (substâncias reagente ao ácido barbitúrico). Um teste de análise de variâncias foi feito para detectar diferenças entre os grupos e momentos avaliados. Os resultados mostraram melhores valores de motilidade total (%) para G1 em D0 (67,9, P = 0,001), D2 (36,6, P = 0,004) e D4 (26,1, P = 0,003). A ocorrência de hiperatividade foi observada em G2 e G3 nos momentos D2 e D4. Além disso, o TBARS mostrou níveis de peroxidação lipídica mais elevados para G1 em D0 (8,1 mM MDA / ml, P = 0,01), D2 (7,4 mM MDA/ml, P = 0,02) e D4 (6,41 mMol MDA / ml, P = 0,008) quando comparado com G2 e G3. Como a filtração não induziu a danos na viabilidade espermática, o estudo concluiu que a filtração espermática é uma ferramenta acessível e válida para substituir a centrifugação com intuito de separar o plasma seminal.(AU)

Correlation of testicular artery Doppler velocimetry with kinetics and morphologic characteristics of epididymal sperm in dogs.

Sperm quality can be affected by a reduction in testicular blood flow, which can be measured by Doppler ultrasonography. The aim of this study was to correlate the Doppler velocimetry of the testicular artery with kinetics of the epididymal spermatozoa in dogs. Twenty-two dogs (44 testicles) were evaluated by Doppler ultrasonography in five regions of the testicular artery before orchiectomy. Spermatozoa were recovered by the epididymal tail compression technique and analysed for kinetics on a computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA system). Morphology (modified Karras) and sperm membrane integrity were analysed by eosin-nigrosine staining. Data were analysed by Pearson's correlation test (p < .01). The mean total motility was 69.0% ± 17.7, progressive motility was 43.7% ± 14.7, average path velocity (VAP) was 127.0 µm/s ± 20.7, curvilinear velocity (VCL) was 221.0 µm/s ± 31.1, and sperm velocity index (SVI) was 389.9 ± 56.1. There were positive correlations between the peak systolic velocity (PSV) in the proximal supratesticular region with the SVI (r = .529), VCL (r = .555) and VAP (r = .473), and a negative correlation with the percentage of slow spermatozoa (r = -.463). The results suggest that the testicular artery blood flow velocity can positively affect the speed of spermatozoa movement. For the first time, we have correlated sperm kinetics with the Doppler evaluation of the testicular artery in dogs.

Características do comportamento hiperativado de espermatozoides de felinos domésticos / Characteristics of the cat sperm hyperactivated behavior

Sperm hyperactivity is a physiological behavior, and in the feline species it is characterized by an increase in the curvilinear velocity (VCL) and a greater head beat (ALH) evaluated by the CASA system. The study aimed to compare and correlate kinetic parameters of Hyperactive and Non-Hyperactive feline ejaculates when considering the means of VCL and ALH. Ejaculates were collected by electro ejaculation from 21 cats. The seminal samples had the kinetic parameters evaluated by the CASA system. From the average values of VCL and ALH, the ejaculates were classified in group HP (Hyperactivated, when VCL>190.17µm/s and ALH>6.44µm) and NHP (Non-Hyperactivated, when VCL<190.17 and ALH<6.44 µm). A T test and Pearson's correlation were performed with a significance of p<0.05. Among the groups, were detected higher values of total (HP: 68,2% vs NHP: 35,9%) and progressive (HP:40,1% vs NPH: 17,18%) motility, VAP (HP: 165,85µm/s vs NHP: 97,72 µm/s), VSL (HP:137,63µm/s vs NHP 82,6µm/s), VCL (HP: 237,31µm/s vs NHP: 147,94µm/s) and ALH (HP: 7,28µm vs NHP:5,42µm) for the HP group. There was a correlation in the HP ejaculates between total and progressive motility. In the NHP group, a correlation was observed between motility and progressive motility, and between progressive motility and STR and LIN. It was concluded that HP spermatozoa have a higher curvilinear speed, while NHP spermatozoa stand out due to their straight path.

Características do comportamento hiperativado de espermatozoides de felinos domésticos / Characteristics of the cat sperm hyperactivated behavior

Sperm hyperactivity is a physiological behavior, and in the feline species it is characterized by an increase in the curvilinear velocity (VCL) and a greater head beat (ALH) evaluated by the CASA system. The study aimed to compare and correlate kinetic parameters of Hyperactive and Non-Hyperactive feline ejaculates when considering the means of VCL and ALH. Ejaculates were collected by electro ejaculation from 21 cats. The seminal samples had the kinetic parameters evaluated by the CASA system. From the average values of VCL and ALH, the ejaculates were classified in group HP (Hyperactivated, when VCL>190.17µm/s and ALH>6.44µm) and NHP (Non-Hyperactivated, when VCL<190.17 and ALH<6.44 µm). A T test and Pearson's correlation were performed with a significance of p<0.05. Among the groups, were detected higher values of total (HP: 68,2% vs NHP: 35,9%) and progressive (HP:40,1% vs NPH: 17,18%) motility, VAP (HP: 165,85µm/s vs NHP: 97,72 µm/s), VSL (HP:137,63µm/s vs NHP 82,6µm/s), VCL (HP: 237,31µm/s vs NHP: 147,94µm/s) and ALH (HP: 7,28µm vs NHP:5,42µm) for the HP group. There was a correlation in the HP ejaculates between total and progressive motility. In the NHP group, a correlation was observed between motility and progressive motility, and between progressive motility and STR and LIN. It was concluded that HP spermatozoa have a higher curvilinear speed, while NHP spermatozoa stand out due to their straight path.(AU)

Can testicular artery Doppler velocimetry values change according to the measured region in dogs?

Testicular tissue maintenance is performed by the testicular artery, and the hemodynamics of this artery can be evaluated using Doppler ultrasonography. The aim of this study was to characterize the peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), pulsatility index (PI) and resistivity index (RI) of five regions of the testicular artery in dogs, including two proposed regions and three that have been previously described. Twenty-two dogs were used, and the PSV, EDV, PI and RI of the testicular artery were measured in five regions: proximal, medial and distal supratesticular; marginal; and intratesticular. The median values for PSV (cm/s), EDV (cm/s), PI and RI in the five regions were as follows: proximal supratesticular (23.1, 3.7, 2.1 and 0.8); medial supratesticular (17.2, 4.5, 1.5, and 0.7); distal supratesticular (12.2, 5.7, 0.8, and 0.5); marginal (11.3, 6.5, 0.5, and 0.4); and intratesticular (5.7, 3.5, 0.5, and 0.4). There was a difference between the PSV of the medial and distal supratesticular regions. There were differences in the PSV, EDV, PI and RI among the distal supratesticular, marginal and intratesticular regions. Measurements of PSV, EDV, PI and RI of the testicular artery in dogs at the proposed regions showed different results due to the hemodynamic and morphological differences of the artery during its course in the spermatic cord and to the testicles. It is necessary to identify the region in testicular artery Doppler velocimetric evaluations of dogs, given that there is a difference according to the region measured.

Effects of chemical castration using 20% CaCl2 with 0.5% DMSO in tomcats: Evaluation of inflammatory reaction by infrared thermography and effectiveness of treatment.

This study used infrared thermography to monitor the immediate inflammatory reaction to an intratesticular injection of 20% (calcium chloride) CaCl2 with 0.5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for chemical castration and to provide evidence of the treatment's clinical viability. Six animals received a 0.25 mL intratesticular injection of 20% CaCl2 with 0.5% DMSO in each testis. Thermographic imaging, testicular measurement, penile spine evaluation, electroejaculation, and sperm analysis were performed before the injection. Eighty days post-injection, the cats were evaluated again, then received an orchiectomy followed by histological analysis. Infrared thermography of the testicular area was performed before (M0) and after anesthesia (M0A); after electroejaculation (M0E); 10 min (M1), 1 h, (M2) and 6 h (M3) after the injection for seven consecutive days (M4-10); after 15 (M11) and 30 days (M12); and after 80 days, before and after anesthesia and after electroejaculation (M13, M13A and M13E). No cats had a significant increase in testicular temperature or behavioral changes. All animals were azoospermic and had a 50% reduction in total testicular volume after 80 days. Histologically, the testes showed different degrees of degeneration, necrosis, calcification and replaced connective tissue, as well as Leydig cell hyperplasia in 7/12 of the testes. Infrared thermography efficiently diagnosed and monitored scrotal inflammation caused by intratesticular injection of 20% CaCl2 solution with 0.5% DMSO, and it is suggested that a single injection of this compound can cause azoospermia after 80 days. We concluded by infrared thermography with a clinical exam, that the adverse reactions were minimal and did not interfere with animal welfare.

Hipoglicemia associada à cetose em cadelas na fase final de gestação / Hypoglycemia associated with ketosis in bitches in the final phase of gestation

Background: Pregnancy toxemia is a metabolic disorder characterized by hypoglycemia and ketonemia, resulted from the inability of the animal to maintain an adequate energetic balance associated with increased corporal fat mobilization to supply energetic requirement, that can place the health and life of the bitch and their fetus at risk. Despite well recognized in sheep as pregnancy toxemia and in women as preeclampsia, hypoglycemia and ketosis is an uncommon condition in bitches. Apparently, five documented cases have been published since 1964. The objective of this work is to discuss clinical cases of hypoglycemia and ketosis.Cases: Two cases of gestational ketosis in bitches on late gestational phase are reported. Case 1. In the first one, a small bitch was presented in labor, with fetus insinuation, prostration, dehydration, pale mucous membranes with laboratorial signs of normochromic and normocytic anemia and anisocytosis, signals of fetal distress in abdominal ultrasonography, hypoglycemia (43 mg/dL) and ketonemia (3.6 mmol/L). Therapeutic course consisted of correction of dehydration and 50% glucose replacement at the dose of 0.5 mg / kg, followed by caesarean section and ovariohysterectomy. Except for the insinuated fetus, all the five remainings were born alive and survived, and the post-surgical recovery occurred without complications. Case 2. The second case involved a small 55-day pregnant bitch, presenting depression, apathy, anorexia, dehydration, abdominal distention compatible with final third of pregnancy without delivery signs. There were signs of fetal distress at ultrasonographic examination, with depression and lack of responses to mechanical stimuli. Laboratory findings include microccytic hypochromic anemia, hypoglycemia (31 mg/dL) and ketonemia detected by urinalysis reagent tape. Three hours after intravenous administration of 50% glucose at the dose of 1.0 mg/kg, the animal was alert and nourished.[...]

Hipoglicemia associada à cetose em cadelas na fase final de gestação / Hypoglycemia associated with ketosis in bitches in the final phase of gestation

Background: Pregnancy toxemia is a metabolic disorder characterized by hypoglycemia and ketonemia, resulted from the inability of the animal to maintain an adequate energetic balance associated with increased corporal fat mobilization to supply energetic requirement, that can place the health and life of the bitch and their fetus at risk. Despite well recognized in sheep as pregnancy toxemia and in women as preeclampsia, hypoglycemia and ketosis is an uncommon condition in bitches. Apparently, five documented cases have been published since 1964. The objective of this work is to discuss clinical cases of hypoglycemia and ketosis.Cases: Two cases of gestational ketosis in bitches on late gestational phase are reported. Case 1. In the first one, a small bitch was presented in labor, with fetus insinuation, prostration, dehydration, pale mucous membranes with laboratorial signs of normochromic and normocytic anemia and anisocytosis, signals of fetal distress in abdominal ultrasonography, hypoglycemia (43 mg/dL) and ketonemia (3.6 mmol/L). Therapeutic course consisted of correction of dehydration and 50% glucose replacement at the dose of 0.5 mg / kg, followed by caesarean section and ovariohysterectomy. Except for the insinuated fetus, all the five remainings were born alive and survived, and the post-surgical recovery occurred without complications. Case 2. The second case involved a small 55-day pregnant bitch, presenting depression, apathy, anorexia, dehydration, abdominal distention compatible with final third of pregnancy without delivery signs. There were signs of fetal distress at ultrasonographic examination, with depression and lack of responses to mechanical stimuli. Laboratory findings include microccytic hypochromic anemia, hypoglycemia (31 mg/dL) and ketonemia detected by urinalysis reagent tape. Three hours after intravenous administration of 50% glucose at the dose of 1.0 mg/kg, the animal was alert and nourished.[...](AU)

The importance of Gram positive bacteria as the cause of canine pyometra / A importância de bactérias Gram positivas como etiologia na piometra canina

E. coli is the main bacteria isolated from infected uterus and bacterial endotoxin can lead to fatal endotoxic shock. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) precedes the endotoxic shock. Thus, early recognition of SIRS is important for patient treatment and prognostic. In Brazil, Gram positive bacteria are responsible for approximately 20% of all pyometra cases, and there is limited information about pathophysiology of shock and tissue injury. The aim of this study was to investigate the capacity of Gram positive bacteria to cause SIRS in bitches with pyometra. A prospective follow-up of 67 bitches with pyometra was performed, which were classified as SIRS + and SIRS- on admission. All bitches were surgically treated (ovariohysterectomy), uterine contents were collected in a sterile manner and the material was submitted to microbiological evaluation. Were identified in 55.2% of bitches E. coli (G1), 23.9% other Gram negative bacteria (G2) and 20.9% Gram positive bacteria (G3). The leukocyte profile, serum biochemistry and prevalence of SIRS were similar between the groups. It is concluded that Gram positive bacteria have the capacity to promote tissue damage and can lead the patient to death after SIRS and shock, as well as by E. coli and other Gram negative.(AU)

A Escherichia coli é reportada como principal agente etiológico da piometra canina e as endotoxinas bacterianas podem desencadear choque endotóxico e óbito. A síndrome da resposta inflamatória sistêmica (SIRS) antecede o choque e sua identificação pode predizer o prognóstico do paciente. No Brasil, bactérias Gram positivas são responsáveis por aproximadamente 20% dos casos de piometra, e informações a respeito da fisiopatologia do choque ou da lesão tecidual nesses casos são escassos. Assim, o objetivo foi investigar a capacidade de bactérias Gram positivas desencadear SIRS em cadelas com piometra. Foram acompanhadas de maneira prospectiva 67 cadelas com piometra, que na admissão passaram por exame clínico, exames laboratoriais e foram classificadas como SIRS+ e SIRS-. Todos os animais foram tratados cirurgicamente (ovariohisterectomia), o conteúdo uterino foi coletado de forma estéril e o material foi submetido à avaliação microbiológica. Em 55,2% das cadelas foi identificada E. coli (G1), 23,9% outras bactérias Gram negativas (G2) e 20,9% Gram positivas (G3). O perfil leucocitário, a bioquímica sérica e a prevalência de SIRS foram semelhantes entre os grupos. Conclui-se que bactérias Gram positivas possuem capacidade de promover dano tecidual podendo levar o paciente a óbito após desencadear SIRS e choque, assim como por E. coli e outras Gram negativas.(AU)

as / Sperm subpopulations

A biotecnologia da reprodução é importante para melhorar a eficiência reprodutiva desenvolvendométodos que identifiquem os melhores reprodutores. Embora a motilidade espermática seja a variável maisavaliada, é necessária a avaliação das características da cinética espermática, as quais se alteram conformeespécie, indivíduos, ejaculados e desafios a que são submetidos. Atualmente sabe-se que o ejaculado não écomposto de um grupo homogêneo de espermatozoides, e sim por subpopulações espermáticas heterogêneas, asquais apresentam respostas variadas quanto aos padrões de motilidade, e a identificação dessas subpopulaçõespode auxiliar na escolha do reprodutor mais eficiente.

Reproductive biotechnology is important for improving reproductive efficiency by developing methodsthat identify the best breeding. Although sperm motility is the most evaluated variable, it is necessary to evaluatethe characteristics of sperm kinetics, which change according to species, individuals, ejaculates and thechallenges that are submitted. It is known that ejaculate is not composed of a homogeneous group ofspermatozoids, but by heterogeneous sperm subpopulations, such as varied kiosks for motility patterns, and asubpopulation identifier may aid in the selection of most efficient breeders.

as / Sperm subpopulations

A biotecnologia da reprodução é importante para melhorar a eficiência reprodutiva desenvolvendométodos que identifiquem os melhores reprodutores. Embora a motilidade espermática seja a variável maisavaliada, é necessária a avaliação das características da cinética espermática, as quais se alteram conformeespécie, indivíduos, ejaculados e desafios a que são submetidos. Atualmente sabe-se que o ejaculado não écomposto de um grupo homogêneo de espermatozoides, e sim por subpopulações espermáticas heterogêneas, asquais apresentam respostas variadas quanto aos padrões de motilidade, e a identificação dessas subpopulaçõespode auxiliar na escolha do reprodutor mais eficiente.(AU)

Reproductive biotechnology is important for improving reproductive efficiency by developing methodsthat identify the best breeding. Although sperm motility is the most evaluated variable, it is necessary to evaluatethe characteristics of sperm kinetics, which change according to species, individuals, ejaculates and thechallenges that are submitted. It is known that ejaculate is not composed of a homogeneous group ofspermatozoids, but by heterogeneous sperm subpopulations, such as varied kiosks for motility patterns, and asubpopulation identifier may aid in the selection of most efficient breeders.(AU)

The importance of Gram positive bacteria as the cause of canine pyometra / A importância de bactérias Gram positivas como etiologia na piometra canina

E. coli is the main bacteria isolated from infected uterus and bacterial endotoxin can lead to fatal endotoxic shock. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) precedes the endotoxic shock. Thus, early recognition of SIRS is important for patient treatment and prognostic. In Brazil, Gram positive bacteria are responsible for approximately 20% of all pyometra cases, and there is limited information about pathophysiology of shock and tissue injury. The aim of this study was to investigate the capacity of Gram positive bacteria to cause SIRS in bitches with pyometra. A prospective follow-up of 67 bitches with pyometra was performed, which were classified as SIRS + and SIRS- on admission. All bitches were surgically treated (ovariohysterectomy), uterine contents were collected in a sterile manner and the material was submitted to microbiological evaluation. Were identified in 55.2% of bitches E. coli (G1), 23.9% other Gram negative bacteria (G2) and 20.9% Gram positive bacteria (G3). The leukocyte profile, serum biochemistry and prevalence of SIRS were similar between the groups. It is concluded that Gram positive bacteria have the capacity to promote tissue damage and can lead the patient to death after SIRS and shock, as well as by E. coli and other Gram negative.

A Escherichia coli é reportada como principal agente etiológico da piometra canina e as endotoxinas bacterianas podem desencadear choque endotóxico e óbito. A síndrome da resposta inflamatória sistêmica (SIRS) antecede o choque e sua identificação pode predizer o prognóstico do paciente. No Brasil, bactérias Gram positivas são responsáveis por aproximadamente 20% dos casos de piometra, e informações a respeito da fisiopatologia do choque ou da lesão tecidual nesses casos são escassos. Assim, o objetivo foi investigar a capacidade de bactérias Gram positivas desencadear SIRS em cadelas com piometra. Foram acompanhadas de maneira prospectiva 67 cadelas com piometra, que na admissão passaram por exame clínico, exames laboratoriais e foram classificadas como SIRS+ e SIRS-. Todos os animais foram tratados cirurgicamente (ovariohisterectomia), o conteúdo uterino foi coletado de forma estéril e o material foi submetido à avaliação microbiológica. Em 55,2% das cadelas foi identificada E. coli (G1), 23,9% outras bactérias Gram negativas (G2) e 20,9% Gram positivas (G3). O perfil leucocitário, a bioquímica sérica e a prevalência de SIRS foram semelhantes entre os grupos. Conclui-se que bactérias Gram positivas possuem capacidade de promover dano tecidual podendo levar o paciente a óbito após desencadear SIRS e choque, assim como por E. coli e outras Gram negativas.

Piometras em cadelas: relação entre o prognóstico clínico e o diagnóstico laboratorial / Pyometra in bitches: relationship between clinical prognosis and laboratory diagnosis

Piometra é uma afecção resultante da interação bacteriana com a hiperplasia cística do endométrio. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar bactérias em condições de aerobiose e anaerobiose da secreção intrauterina de cadelas com piometra, presença da síndrome da resposta inflamatória sistêmica, status da cérvix, peritonite, dosagens bioquímicas séricas e comparar com o prognóstico de cadelas tratadas cirurgicamente. Utilizaram-se 15 cadelas com piometra, submetidas à ovariohisterectomia. Hemogramas e dosagens séricas de ureia, creatinina, FA e ALT foram realizados no pré-operatório imediato. Coletou-se urina por cistocentese. Após a remoção do útero e ovários, a secreção intrauterina foi aspirada; as amostras foram então cultivadas em aerobiose e anaerobiose, as amostras de urina em aerobiose. Os animais foram divididos em dois grupos, G1 (alta hospitalar em até 48 horas) e G2 (alta hospitalar após 48 horas ou óbito). Onze amostras de conteúdo intrauterino (73,3%) apresentaram crescimento bacteriano em aerobiose e anaerobiose e em uma amostra isolou-se Arizona hinshawii. Quatro amostras de urina (26,6%) tiveram crescimento bacteriano. Houve diferença significativa das variáveis status da cérvix, ureia, creatinina e fosfatase alcalina entre G1 e G2. Embora a diversidade etiológica encontrada nas culturas de conteúdo intrauterino tenha sido alta, a avaliação da azotemia, status da cérvix e dosagem de FA sérica mostraram-se bons marcadores prognósticos em cadelas com piometra.(AU)

Pyometra is a disease resulting from bacterial interaction with cystic endometrial hyperplasia. The aim of this study was to identify bacteria under aerobic and anaerobic conditions of intrauterine secretion of bitches with pyometra, Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, status of the cervix, peritonitis, serum biochemical measurements and to compare the prognosis of surgically treated bitches. We used 15 bitches with pyometra, undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Blood count and dosage of serum biochemicals were performed preoperatively. Urine was collected by cystocentesis during surgery. After the uterus was removed, intrauterine secretion was aspirated; the samples were grown aerobically and anaerobically, and urine aerobically. The animals were divided into two groups, G1 (hospital discharge until 48 hours) and G2 (discharged after 48 hours or death). Eleven samples of intrauterine content (73.3%) had bacterial growth in aerobic and anaerobic conditions, and Arizona hinshawii was isolated in a sample. Four urine samples (26.6%) had bacterial growth. There were significant differences in status of the cervix, urea, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase between G1 and G2. Although the etiology diversity found in intrauterine cultures was high, the evaluation of azotemia, status of the cervix, and serum alkaline phosphatase dosage proved to be good prognostics markers in female dogs with pyometra.(AU)

Piometras em cadelas: relação entre o prognóstico clínico e o diagnóstico laboratorial / Pyometra in bitches: relationship between clinical prognosis and laboratory diagnosis

Piometra é uma afecção resultante da interação bacteriana com a hiperplasia cística do endométrio. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar bactérias em condições de aerobiose e anaerobiose da secreção intrauterina de cadelas com piometra, presença da síndrome da resposta inflamatória sistêmica, status da cérvix, peritonite, dosagens bioquímicas séricas e comparar com o prognóstico de cadelas tratadas cirurgicamente. Utilizaram-se 15 cadelas com piometra, submetidas à ovariohisterectomia. Hemogramas e dosagens séricas de ureia, creatinina, FA e ALT foram realizados no pré-operatório imediato. Coletou-se urina por cistocentese. Após a remoção do útero e ovários, a secreção intrauterina foi aspirada; as amostras foram então cultivadas em aerobiose e anaerobiose, as amostras de urina em aerobiose. Os animais foram divididos em dois grupos, G1 (alta hospitalar em até 48 horas) e G2 (alta hospitalar após 48 horas ou óbito). Onze amostras de conteúdo intrauterino (73,3%) apresentaram crescimento bacteriano em aerobiose e anaerobiose e em uma amostra isolou-se Arizona hinshawii. Quatro amostras de urina (26,6%) tiveram crescimento bacteriano. Houve diferença significativa das variáveis status da cérvix, ureia, creatinina e fosfatase alcalina entre G1 e G2. Embora a diversidade etiológica encontrada nas culturas de conteúdo intrauterino tenha sido alta, a avaliação da azotemia, status da cérvix e dosagem de FA sérica mostraram-se bons marcadores prognósticos em cadelas com piometra.

Pyometra is a disease resulting from bacterial interaction with cystic endometrial hyperplasia. The aim of this study was to identify bacteria under aerobic and anaerobic conditions of intrauterine secretion of bitches with pyometra, Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, status of the cervix, peritonitis, serum biochemical measurements and to compare the prognosis of surgically treated bitches. We used 15 bitches with pyometra, undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Blood count and dosage of serum biochemicals were performed preoperatively. Urine was collected by cystocentesis during surgery. After the uterus was removed, intrauterine secretion was aspirated; the samples were grown aerobically and anaerobically, and urine aerobically. The animals were divided into two groups, G1 (hospital discharge until 48 hours) and G2 (discharged after 48 hours or death). Eleven samples of intrauterine content (73.3%) had bacterial growth in aerobic and anaerobic conditions, and Arizona hinshawii was isolated in a sample. Four urine samples (26.6%) had bacterial growth. There were significant differences in status of the cervix, urea, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase between G1 and G2. Although the etiology diversity found in intrauterine cultures was high, the evaluation of azotemia, status of the cervix, and serum alkaline phosphatase dosage proved to be good prognostics markers in female dogs with pyometra.