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Copyright of Kocatepe Veterinary Journal / Kocatepe Veteriner Dergisi is the property of Afyon Kocatepe University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article announces that the 2023 AOS Elliott Coues Award has been presented to Gregory F. Ball and Jacques Balthazart for their outstanding and innovative contributions to ornithological research. Gregory F. Ball is the Vice President for Research and professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Maryland, USA, while Jacques Balthazart is the Director Emeritus of the Behavioral Neurobiology Research Group at the University of Liège, Belgium. The two researchers have collaborated since 1989 and are known for their work on avian endocrinology and neurobiology, including the regulation of sexual behavior in quail and seasonal neuroplasticity in songbirds. They have published numerous papers and have been recognized for their contributions to the field. [Extracted from the article]

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The objective of this study was to examine testicular ultrasonographic characteristics and endocrine profiles in prepubescent ram lambs for correlations with the age at first detection of elongated spermatids (ESt age). Bi-weekly ultrasound examinations and weekly testicular biopsies began at 10 weeks of age or at the time that testicular volume reached 15 cm 3 , and continued until 1–2 weeks after Est's were first detected by histological examination of testicular biopsies in twenty-two spring-born Rideau Arcott × Polled Dorset lambs. Computer-assisted analysis of testicular ultrasonograms was performed using commercially available image analytical software. Blood samples were drawn before each ultrasonographic examination and were used for measurements of free triiodothyronine (fT 3 ) and thyroxine (fT 4 ), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations. The mean (±SEM) age at first detection of ESts was 15.9 ± 0.5 weeks. Testicular volumes recorded between 10 and 12 weeks of age correlated inversely with the ESt age ( r = −0.44 to −0.50, P ≤ 0.05). Statistically significant correlations were recorded between the ESt age and numerical pixel values of testicular parenchyma at 10 ( r = −0.48, P = 0.05) and 15 ( r = 0.52, P = 0.05) weeks of age, and between the ESt age and testicular pixel heterogeneity in ram lambs aged 14.5 weeks ( r = 0.60, P = 0.007). Lastly, circulating FSH concentrations at 10 weeks ( r = −0.43, P = 0.05), serum fT 3 concentrations at 13 weeks ( r = 0.44, P = 0.04) and fT 4 concentrations at 11.5 weeks of age ( r = 0.48, P = 0.03) were all correlated with the ESt age. The present results show that testicular volume has the most stable relationship with pubertal onset; however, testicular echotexture as well as circulating concentrations of FSH and free fractions of thyroid hormones at specific ages may be indicative of more intricate developmental events heralding puberty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) and its high-affinity receptor, tyrosine kinase receptor B, have been assumed to be involved in female reproduction and have recently shown to play an essential role in follicle activation and oocyte maturation. In this study, we analyzed the expression of miR-10b and BDNF in the ovary and discovered that the expression of miR-10b was higher in monotocous goat ovaries than in polytocous goat ovaries, whereas the expression pattern of BDNF in ovary was opposite. Moreover, human chorionic gonadotropin induced rapid and transient expression of BDNF messenger RNA and protein. In contrast, human chorionic gonadotropin upregulated miR-10b expression in a time-dependent manner. The BDNF gene was identified as a direct target of miR-10b using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Transfection of granulosa cells with miR-10b decreased BDNF messenger RNA and protein levels. MiR-10b overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, whereas BDNF promoted cell proliferation. However, a combined treatment with miR-10b and BDNF promoted cell proliferation, indicating that the reintroduction of BDNF reversed the suppressive effect of miR-10b. These results demonstrate that miR-10b downregulates BDNF expression in granulosa cells by directly targeting the 3′ untranslated regions and plays an important role in inhibiting granulosa cell proliferation by targeting BDNF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vascular network within the developing mammary gland (MG) grows in concert with the epithelium to prepare for lactation, although the mechanisms coordinating this vascular development are unresolved. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) mediates angiogenesis and vascular permeability in the MG during pregnancy and lactation, where its expression is upregulated by prolactin. Given our previous finding that late-gestational hyperprolactinemia induced by domperidone (DOM) increased subsequent milk yield from gilts, we sought to establish changes in vascular development during late gestation and lactation in the MGs of these pigs and determine whether DOM altered MG angiogenesis and the factors regulating it. Gilts received either no treatment (n = 6) or DOM (n = 6) during late gestation, then had their MG biopsied from late gestation through lactation to assess microvessel density, VEGF-A distribution and messenger RNA expression, and aquaporin (AQP) gene expression. Microvessel density in the MG was unchanged during gestation then increased between days 2 and 21 of lactation ( P < 0.05). The local expression of messenger RNA for VEGF-A 120 , VEGF-A 147 , VEGF-A 164 , VEGF-A 164 b , VEGF-A 188 , VEGF receptors-1 and -2 , and AQP1 and AQP3 all generally increased during the transition from gestation to lactation ( P < 0.05). Immunostaining localized VEGF-A to the apical cytoplasm of secretory epithelial cells, consistent with a far greater concentration of VEGF-A in colostrum and/or milk vs plasma ( P < 0.0001). There was no effect of DOM on any of the variables analyzed. In summary, we found that vascular development in the MG increases during lactation in first-parity gilts and that VEGF-A is a part of the mammary secretome. Although late-gestational hyperprolactinemia increases milk yield, there was no evidence that it altered vascular development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) to synchronize ovulation and new follicular wave emergence before a “superovulatory Day 0” protocol was assessed in Santa Inês ewes. For estrus synchronization, a 60-mg medroxyprogesterone acetate sponge was inserted for 6 d. One day before sponge removal, 37.5-μg d-cloprostenol and 300 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin were injected intramuscularly (i.m.). After sponge removal, ewes were assigned to the following 3 groups: (1) G C —1 mL saline at 12 h (n = 10); (2) G 24h —0.025-mg lecirelin (GnRH agonist) i.m. at 24 h (n = 10); or (3) G 36h —0.025-mg lecirelin i.m. at 36 h (n = 9). Ovarian ultrasonography was conducted to assess follicular dynamics. Blood was collected to determine plasma concentrations of progesterone and estradiol. Females from G 36h and G C had a greater ( P < 0.05) estrous response than those from the G 24h group (78.0 and 90.0 vs 0.0%, respectively). Ewes from G 24h and G 36h had earlier ( P < 0.05) ovulation (48.0 ± 10.2 and 56.7 ± 5.7 h) compared with those from G c (64.1 ± 9.7 h). The mean number of ovulations per ewe was greater ( P < 0.05) in G c (1.9 ± 0.6) and G 36h (2.0 ± 1.0) than G 24h (1.2 ± 0.4). Plasma concentrations of progesterone and estradiol differed over time. Follicular growth during the postovulatory day was affected ( P < 0.05) by day of the estrus cycle as well as by the interaction ( P < 0.05) of treatment and day of the estrus cycle. There was a larger ( P < 0.05) population of medium follicles during the first 24 h after the ovulation in G 24h compared with G c , and there was an absence of large follicles in G 36h between 36 and 72 h after ovulation. In conclusion, the use of GnRH agonist at 36 h more efficiently synchronized ovulation and promoted the absence of dominant follicles during early diestrus and may be used at the start of superovulatory treatment at 80 h in Santa Inês ewes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assisted reproductive technologies, including in vitro embryo production (IVP), have been successfully used in animal reproduction to optimize breeding strategies for improved production and health in animal husbandry. Despite the progress in IVP techniques over the years, further improvements in in vitro embryo culture systems are required for the enhancement of oocyte and embryo developmental competence. One of the most important issues associated with IVP procedures is the optimization of the in vitro culture of oocytes and embryos. Studies in different species of animals and in humans have identified important roles for receptor-mediated lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) signaling in multiple aspects of human and animal reproductive tract function. The data on LPA signaling in the ovary and uterus suggest that LPA can directly contribute to embryo–maternal interactions via its influence on early embryo development beginning from the influence of the ovarian environment on the oocyte to the influence of the uterine environment on the preimplantation embryo. This review discusses the current status of LPA as a potential supplement in oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo culture media and current views on the potential involvement of the LPA signaling pathway in early embryo development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the expression of interleukin 1 (IL-1) system members (proteins and messenger RNA of ligands and receptors) and its distribution in ovarian follicles of cyclic cows and to evaluate the effects of IL-1β on the survival and activation of primordial follicles in vitro. The ovaries were processed for localization of IL-1 system in preantral and antral follicles by immunohistochemical, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot analysis. For in vitro studies, ovarian fragments were cultured in α-MEM + supplemented with IL-1β (0, 1, 10, 50, or 100 ng/mL), and after 6 d, the cultured tissues were processed for histologic analysis. Immunohistochemical results showed that the IL-1 system proteins IL-1β, IL-1RA, IL-1RI, and IL-1RII were detected in the cytoplasm of oocytes and granulosa cells from all follicular categories and theca cells of antral follicles. Variable levels of messenger RNA for the IL-1 system members were observed at different stages of development. After 6 d of culture, the presence of IL-1β (10 or 50 ng/mL) was effective in maintaining the percentage of normal follicles and in promoting primordial follicle activation. In conclusion, IL-1 system members are differentially expressed in ovarian follicles according to their stage of development. Moreover, IL-1β promotes the development of primordial follicles. These results indicate an important role of the IL-1 system in the regulation of bovine folliculogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Follicular growth is regulated by a complex interaction of pituitary gonadotropins with local regulatory molecules. Previous studies demonstrated an important role for cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) in regulation of granulosa cell estradiol production associated with dominant follicle selection in cattle. However, intraovarian expression and actions of CART in other species, including sheep, are not known. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of CART in sheep follicles and determine the effects of CART on indices of ovine granulosa cell function linked to follicular development. Results demonstrated the expression of CART messenger RNA and prominent intraovarian localization of CART peptide in granulosa cells of sheep follicles. Granulosa cell CART messenger RNA was lower, but follicular fluid estradiol concentrations were higher in large (>5 mm) follicles vs smaller 3- to 5-mm follicles harvested from sheep ovaries of abattoir origin. CART treatment inhibited follicle stimulating hormone-induced estradiol production by cultured ovine granulosal cells and also blocked the follicle stimulating hormone-induced increase in granulosa cell numbers. Results demonstrate expression of CART in sheep follicular tissues and suggest potential biological actions of CART, which are inhibitory to ovine follicular growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin is the primary acute anabolic coordinator of nutrient partitioning. Hyperglycemia is the main stimulant of insulin secretion, but other nutrients such as specific amino acids, fatty acids, and ketoacids can potentiate pancreatic insulin release. Incretins are intestinal hormones with insulinotropic activity and are secreted in response to food ingestion, thus integrating diet chemical composition with the regulation of insulin release. In addition, prolactin is required for proper islet development, and it stimulates β-cell proliferation. Counterintuitively, bacterial components appear to signal insulin secretion. In vivo lipopolysaccharide infusion acutely increases circulating insulin, which is paradoxical as endotoxemia is a potent catabolic condition. Insulin is a potent anabolic orchestrator of nutrient partitioning, and this is particularly true in adipocytes. Insulin dictates lipid accretion in a dose-dependent manner during preadipocyte development in adipose tissue–derived stromal vascular cell culture. However, in vivo studies focused on insulin's role in regulating adipose tissue metabolism from growing, and market weight pigs are sometimes inconsistent, and this variability appears to be animal, age and depot dependent. Additionally, porcine adipose tissue synthesizes and secretes a number of adipokines (leptin, adiponectin, and so forth) that directly or indirectly influence insulin action. Therefore, because insulin has an enormous impact on agriculturally important phenotypes, it is critical to have a better understanding of how insulin homeostasis is governed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our objectives were to measure plasma concentrations of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), and peptide YY (PYY) in client-owned newly diagnosed diabetic cats and nondiabetic lean or overweight cats and to determine whether circulating concentrations of these hormones differed between study groups and if they increased postprandially as seen in other species. A total of 31 cats were recruited and placed into 1 of 3 study groups: lean (body condition score 4–5 on a scale of 1–9; n = 10), overweight (body condition score 6–8; n = 11), or diabetic (n = 10). Diabetics were newly diagnosed and had not had prior insulin therapy. Preprandial (fasting) and postprandial (60 min after meal) plasma hormone and glucose concentrations were measured at baseline and 2 and 4 wk. All cats were exclusively fed a commercially available high-protein and low-carbohydrate diet commonly prescribed to feline diabetic patients for 2 wk before the 2-wk assessment and continued through the 4-wk assessment. Results showed that plasma concentrations of GLP-1, GIP, PYY, and insulin increased in general after a meal in all study groups. Plasma PYY concentrations did not differ ( P > 0.10) between study groups. Diabetics had greater plasma concentrations of GLP-1 and GIP compared with the other study groups at baseline ( P < 0.05), and greater preprandial and postprandial GLP-1 concentrations than lean cats at 2 and 4 wk ( P < 0.05). Preprandial plasma GIP concentrations were greater in diabetics than obese and lean ( P < 0.05) cats at week 4. Postprandial plasma GIP concentrations in diabetics were greater than lean ( P < 0.05) at week 2 and obese and lean cats ( P < 0.05) at week 4. Together, our findings suggest that diabetic status is an important determinant of circulating concentrations of GLP-1 and GIP, but not PYY, in cats. The role of GLP-1, GIP, and PYY in the pathophysiology of feline obesity and diabetes remains to be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the use of Sof-sensor® and EnliteTM sensors with the Guardian® REAL-Time system for continuous glucose monitoring in dogs and cats. METHODS Subjects were recruited from patients requiring glucose monitoring referred to a specialist facility. Interstitial glucose, reported by the Guardian system, was compared with paired blood glucose values from a portable blood glucose meter. RESULTS A positive overall correlation between interstitial and blood glucose was found (Spearman’s correlation 83%, P = 0.000, n = 321). A difference in relationship between interstitial and blood glucose was found to be dependent on the type of sensor used and the species of the patient, with Sof-sensors® found to be more accurate than Enlite sensors. CONCLUSION As less Enlite data was collected than for Sof-sensors, and is reported as a pilot study, further research is required before their use can be recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among primates, orangutans are unique in having pronounced male bimaturism leading to two fully adult morphs that differ in both physical appearance and behavior. While unflanged males have a female-like appearance, flanged males have the full suite of secondary sexual characteristics, including cheek flanges and a large throat sac. So far, hormonal correlates of arrested development in unflanged males and the expression of secondary sexual characteristics in flanged males have only been studied in zoo-housed individuals. In this study, we investigated fecal androgen and glucocorticoid metabolites as hormonal correlates of male bimaturism in 17 wild adult Bornean orangutans ( Pongo pygmaeus) in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. We predicted and found higher androgen levels in flanged males compared to unflanged males, probably due to ongoing strong competition among flanged males who meet too infrequently to establish a clear linear dominance hierarchy. Furthermore, we found no difference in fecal glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations between flanged and unflanged males, indicating that social stress is unlikely to explain arrested development in unflanged wild orangutans. The only actively developing male in our study showed significantly higher androgen levels during the period of development than later as a fully flanged male. This supports earlier findings from zoo studies that elevated androgen levels are associated with the development of secondary sexual characteristics. Am. J. Primatol. 77:1170-1178, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 3 mo old, female, entire Labrador retriever presented with vomiting, diarrhea, polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, and stunted growth. Diagnostics revealed the presence of juvenile diabetes mellitus and concurrent exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Pancreatic histopathology showed severe pancreatic atrophy. Successful treatment was achieved with a combination of insulin and pancreatic enzymes. This report describes successful long-term treatment of juvenile diabetes mellitus and concurrent exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in a dog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasonography has been used to diagnose and monitor pregnancy. However, in the queen, most of ultrasonographic and endocrinological studies have been performed using small number of observations during limited periods of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to derive equations to predict the gestation age and parturition time using ultrasonographic embryo fetus measurements and serum progesterone (P 4 ) concentration measurements. Mixed-breed queens (n = 16), aged between 24 and 36 months and weighing between 2 and 4 kg, were daily monitored by ultrasonography since 21 days after the first mating to parturition. Gestational sac (GS) was measured from longitudinal (length [LEN], anterior–posterior [ATP]) and transverse images (width [WID]), GS volume was calculated by the prolate ellipse formula, and GS diameter was calculated by orthogonal measurements. Fetal measurements included crown–rump length (CRL), head diameter (HD), and body diameter (BD). Gestational sac, fetal measurements, and serum P 4 concentration were recorded and analyzed by ANOVA. Correlation and linear regression analyses were performed and equations were derived to estimate predicted values and 95% confidence interval for GS parameters and P 4 concentrations from 21 to 63 days after the first mating and to estimate predicted values and 95% confidence interval for fetal parameters from Day 35 to 63 of gestation. The average concentrations of serum P 4 concentration from Day 22 to 47 of gestation remained between 32.27 ± 4.25 and 16.25 ± 2.45 ng/mL. After that, a gradual decline occurs reaching a concentration of 2.99 ± 1.29 ng/mL 1 day before parturition. A positive and significant correlation between the ultrasonographic measurements (LEN, ATP, WID, GS volume and diameter, uterine wall thickness, CRL, HD, and BD) with number of days after the first mating was observed (P < 0.001). We observed a positive and significant correlation between GS measurements (LEN, ATP, and WID) and between fetal measurements (CRL, HD, and BD) and a negative and significant correlation between serum P 4 concentration with GS (LEN, ATP, and WID), uterine wall thickness, and fetal (CRL, HD, and BD) measurements. In addition, there was a positive and significant correlation between serum P 4 concentrations with days after the first mating to parturition. In conclusion, the equations derived from this study will be useful for pregnancy monitoring and for estimating pregnancy age in queens from Day 21 until parturition for animals with similar weight and age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonsurgical sterilization methods are considered alternative tools for the worldwide challenge represented by canine overpopulation control. Intratesticular injection of zinc gluconate associated with DMSO arises as an option because of the effortless diffusion throughout the testicular parenchyma. This study aimed to verify the effectiveness of a double testicular injection of zinc gluconate associated with DMSO as a chemical contraceptive for male dogs. The study was conducted with 22 dogs treated with two intratesticular injections of the chemical solution (treated group; n = 15) or 0.9% NaCl solution (control group; n = 7) on a monthly interval. All animals were submitted to clinical examination, breeding soundness evaluation including morphologic and sonographic examination of the testes, assessment of libido, volume of the sperm-rich fraction, sperm motility, total sperm count, plasma membrane integrity, sperm morphologic abnormalities, and the total number of morphologically normal and motile sperm in the ejaculate. Blood samples were collected for serum testosterone analysis, and testicular tissue was morphologically and histologically evaluated. No clinical alterations and signs of pain or local sensitivity along the experimental period were noticed. However, the injection of zinc gluconate and DMSO significantly reduced libido and testosterone concentrations (even beyond the reference range for intact male dogs). Impairment of sperm quality–related variables was observed 15 days after the first intratesticular administration of zinc gluconate and DMSO (i.e., decrease in sperm count and sperm motility and an increase in major sperm defects and by this a decrease in the total number of morphologically normal and motile sperm). Testicular ultrasonographic analysis revealed reduction of testicular volume and changes of testicular echotexture in treated animals, compatible with tissue degeneration, fibrosis, and calcification of testicular parenchyma on histologic examination. In conclusion, intratesticular administration of zinc gluconate associated with DMSO reduces reproductive potential which may lead to subfertility or infertility in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equine artificial insemination is widely performed in equine and mixed practice using chilled and frozen semen. To facilitate a safe and cost effective procedure, veterinary nurses should have an appropriate level of knowledge of the endocrinology and reproductive anatomy in the mare, as well as the insemination procedure, in order to assist the veterinary surgeon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Canine noninflammatory alopecia ( CNA) is a heterogeneous group of skin diseases with different underlying pathogenesis. The therapeutic approach is challenging, and new options for treatment are desirable. Hypothesis/Objectives To test the clinical efficacy of low-level laser therapy ( LLLT) on hair regrowth in CNA. Animals Seven dogs of different ages, breeds and genders with a clinical and histopathological diagnosis of noninflammatory alopecia. Methods Each dog was treated twice weekly for a maximum of 2 months with a therapeutic laser producing the following three different wavelengths emerging simultaneously from 21 foci: 13 × 16 mW, 470 nm; 4 × 50 mW, 685 nm; and 4 × 200 mW, 830 nm. The fluence given was 3 J/cm2, frequency 5 Hz, amplitude of the irradiated area was 25 cm2 and application time was 1.34 min. A predetermined alopecic area was left untreated and served as a control area. From one dog, post-treatment biopsies of treated and untreated sites were obtained for histological evaluation of hair density and the percentage of haired and nonhaired follicles. Results At the end of the study, coat regrowth was greatly improved in six of seven animals and improved in one of seven. By morphometry, the area occupied by hair follicles was 18% in the treated sample and 11% in the untreated one (11%); haired follicles were (per area) 93% in the treated sample and only 9% in the control sample. Conclusions and clinical importance Our clinical and histological data document promising effects of LLLT on hair regrowth in CNA. Further studies investigating the biological mechanism underlying the effect of LLLT on hair follicle cycling are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Topical ear medications, often containing a glucocorticoid, are used to treat the clinical signs of atopic otitis in dogs. Studies have looked at the inhibitory effect of topical glucocorticoids on intradermal testing ( IDT), but only one previously published study evaluated the influence of an otic glucocorticoid on the results of IDT in dogs. Hypothesis/Objectives To assess what influence the absorption of the diester glucocorticoid mometasone furoate ( MF) had on intradermal test immediate reactions, to determine an appropriate withdrawal time prior to IDT. Methods Twenty atopic dogs were enrolled. On day 0, histamine, rabbit anticanine IgE antiserum and saline were injected intradermally. After 20 min, a global wheal score ( GWS) was determined. The otic medication, MF, was applied once daily for 14 days. Intradermal injections were then repeated and, if the GWS was within 25% of pretreatment values, the study was completed for this dog. If the GWS had decreased by ≥25% from the baseline value, the otic medication was withdrawn, and the GWS was repeated every 7 days until its value was within 25% of the original GWS. Results Three of the 20 dogs completed the study on day 14, while 17 of 20 dogs ended it on day 21, 7 days after withdrawal of the drug, MF. Conclusions and clinical importance Results from this study show that a withdrawal period of ≤7 days is possible before performing IDT in atopic dogs with active otitis externa treated with ≤14 days of MF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Bartonella henselae, a Gram-negative, zoonotic Alphaproteobacteria that infects erythrocytes, endothelial cells and dendritic cells, has previously been implicated as a cause of panniculitis in dogs and a human. Animal and owner An 8-year-old, spayed female Labrador retriever and its 78-year-old male owner living in the same household. Methods and results When preliminary and advanced testing failed to identify the cause of near-simultaneous-onset dermatological lesions, Bartonella serology, Bartonella Alphaproteobacteria growth medium ( BAPGM) enrichment blood culture/ PCR and immunohistochemistry were used to test specimens from the dog and owner. Bartonella henselae, genotype San Antonio 2 DNA was amplified and sequenced from the man's BAPGM enrichment blood culture and the dog's panniculitis lesion. The bacterium was visualized by immunohistochemistry in the dog's panniculitis lesion; however, neither the dog nor the owner was B. henselae seroreactive. Antibiotic therapy elicited dermatological improvement in both dog and owner. Conclusions and clinical importance Bartonella henselae is an emerging zoonotic pathogen that induces granulomatous inflammatory lesions in various tissues of animals, including humans. We conclude that this bacterium had a contributory or causative role in the development of the dermatological lesions in the dog and owner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background In recent years, the protein hormone leptin has been the subject of numerous studies designed to clarify and interpret its functional significance; it has been speculated that this goes well beyond the control of appetite and energy metabolism. In particular, the presence of leptin and its receptor has been observed in various glands anatomically and functionally related to the reproductive apparatus. This has led to the hypothesis that leptin may act directly in the functional control of these glands and, in general, the control of reproductive function. Hypothesis/Objectives The presence and distribution of leptin and its receptor in the carpal glands of domestic pigs and wild boar are examined, using immunohistochemical techniques. Animals Tissue samples were collected from five domestic pigs and five wild boar, following slaughter. Results The presence of leptin and its receptor was demonstrated in the glands, localized in the dark cells of the glandular secretory epithelium. In addition, no difference was observed between wild boar and domestic pigs. Conclusions and clinical importance We hypothesize that leptin may be produced by the carpal gland and may act on the gland's secretory epithelial cells with an autocrine/paracrine mechanism, thus affecting the secretory activity of the gland itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on timed artificial insemination (TAI) in beef and dairy cattle. The topics discussed include physiology and endocrinology of the estrous cycle in the animals, manipulation of ovarian physiology for TAI, and synchronization of follicle growth, corpus luteum regression and ovulation in the animals.

Hypersomathotropism is an important feline endocrinopathy, induced by a pituitary growth hormone secreting adenoma. Up until present, most of the diagnosed acromegalic cats were diagnosed previously with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Hypersomathotropism needs imperative exclusion when dealing with poor blood glucose control and insulin resistance. The present paper describes hypersomathotropism diagnosis protocol in two insulin resistant diabetic felines. Two diabetic domestic short hair cats presenting marked insulin resistance and poor blood glucose control were evaluated. Diagnosis protocol included anamnesis, physical evaluation and general and specific biochemistry analysis. Diagnosis confirmation was obtained on contrast enhanced intracranial MRI and morphopathological examination. Both cases displayed marked insulin resistance with 1.5 IU/kg/administration in the male cat (10.5 IU/administration) and 2.4 I.U./kg/administration in the female cat (12 I.U./administration). On physical examination have been observed a slight inferior prognathia on the female cat, clubbed paws on the male cat, broad facial features and obesity (female: 5kg; male: 7 kg). Repeated blood glucose curves confirmed persistent hyperglycaemia >450 mg/dl (61-124 mg/dl) with different doses of insulin. Specific biochemistry revealed an increased concentration of insulin like growth factor–1 determination >1000 ng/ml (208 – 443 ng/ml), above the cut-off for hypersomathotropism diagnosis. Contrast enhanced MRI revealed an enlarged pituitary gland confirming hypersomathotropism. Haematoxylin eosin examination of the pituitary tissue revealed acidophilic cells consistent with growth hormone producing cells. Systemic manifestations are masked by diabetes mellitus clinical signs leading to a high error degree in diagnostic establishment and administration of highly dangerous doses of insulin. With accurate diagnosis, case management and specific treatment can be applied accordingly and in the favor of patient quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to clarify the effects of hypothalamic dopamine ( DA) on salsolinol ( SAL)-induced prolactin ( PRL) release in goats. The PRL-releasing response to an intravenous (i.v.) injection of SAL was examined after treatment with augmentation of central DA using carbidopa (carbi) and L-dopa in male goats under 8-h (8 h light, 16 h dark) or 16-h (16 h light, 8 h dark) photoperiod conditions. The carbi and L-dopa treatments reduced basal PRL concentrations in the 16-h photoperiod group ( P < 0.05), while a reduction was not observed in the 8-h photoperiod group. The mean basal plasma PRL concentration in the control group for the 8-h photoperiod was lower than that for the 16-h photoperiod ( P < 0.05). SAL significantly stimulated the release of PRL promptly after the injection in both the 8- and 16-h photoperiod groups ( P < 0.05). PRL-releasing responses for the 16-h photoperiod were greater than those for the 8-h photoperiod ( P < 0.05). The carbi and L-dopa treatments blunted SAL-induced PRL release in both the 8- and 16-h photoperiods ( P < 0.05). These results indicate that hypothalamic DA blunts the SAL-induced release of PRL in male goats, regardless of the photoperiod, which suggests that both SAL and DA are involved in regulating the secretion of PRL in goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ecto-adenosine deaminase (E-ADA) activity in erythrocytes of lambs experimentally infected with Haemonchus contortus, correlating it with the degrees of anemia of the experimental animals. A total of 14 healthy lambs, with negative fecal exam for parasites, were to carry out the present study. They were divided into two groups, composed by seven animals: Group A represented the healthy animals (uninfected), while in Group B the animals were infected with 15,000 larvae of H. contortus. Blood was drawn on the days 15, 45 and 75 post-infection (PI) in order to perform the hematological analysis, as well as the mensuration of E-ADA activity in erythrocytes. Parasitological stool exam were performed on the same days mentioned above to follow up the evolution of the infection, as well to determine the number of eggs per gram of feces (EPG). On day 15 PI, the animals presented negative EPG and there was not significant (P > 0.05) difference between groups in relation to E-ADA activity and hematologic parameters. Animals in Group B had positive EPG for helminths on days 45 and 75 PI, accompanied by varying degrees of anemia, when compared to Group A. At the same periods E-ADA activity was significantly (P < 0.05) increased in the erythrocytes of animals of Group B when compared with the not-infected ones. Statistically, there was a negative correlation (P < 0.01) between activity E-ADA in erythrocytes and hematocrit on days 45 (r = -0.76) and 75 (r = -0.85) PI. Based on these results and in the scientific literature, it is possible to conclude that the E-ADA may participate on mechanisms related with the pathogenesis and host response against anemia caused by H. contortus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Diabetes mellitus ( DM) management primarily focuses on improvement in blood glucose concentrations and clinical signs. A tool to assess the psychological and social impact of DM and its treatment on quality of life ( QoL) previously has only been validated for feline DM. Hypothesis/Objectives To validate a diabetic pet and owner-centered individualized measure of impact of DM ( DIAQoL-pet) for diabetic dogs and their owners. Animals/Subjects A total of 101 owners of insulin-treated diabetic dogs were recruited to complete the DIAQoL-pet. Methods Discussions and pilot surveys with clinicians and owners of diabetic pets led to the design of 29 specific DM-associated QoL questions. Each item was scored according to impact frequency and perceived importance. An Item-Weighted-Impact-Score ( IWIS) for each item was calculated, as was an Average-Weighted-Impact-Score ( AWIS) by averaging all IWISs. Principal component analysis and Cronbach's α calculation assessed the measure's reliability. Results The DIAQoL-pet showed high reliability (Communalities ≥0.5; Cronbach's α 0.85). The AWIS was −2.74 ± 1.7 (mean ± SD). Areas reported as most negatively impacting QoL included: 'worry' ( IWIS ± SD: −5.92 ± 4.3), 'difficulties leaving dog with friends or family' (−5.68 ± 5.1), 'worry vision' (−5.58 ± 4.6), 'boarding difficulties' (−5.18 ± 5.2), 'worry hypoglycemia' (−4.95 ± 4.3), 'social life' (−4.82 ± 4.4), 'costs' (−4.11 ± 4.7), and 'future care'(−4.07 ± 4.6). Eighty-four percent of owners reported negative impact of DM on QoL. Conclusions and Clinical Importance The DIAQoL-pet proved robust when used by owners of insulin-treated diabetic dogs and identified specific areas most negatively impacting dogs' and their owners' QoL. This tool could be used as an additional assessment parameter in clinical and research settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a severe nutrient restriction on mammary tissue morphology and remodeling, mammary epithelial cell (MEC) turnover and activity, and hormonal status in lactating dairy cows. We used 16 Holstein x Normande crossbred dairy cows, divided into 2 groups submitted to different feeding levels (basal and restricted) from 2 wk before calving to wk 11 postpartum. Restricted-diet cows had lower 11-wk average daily milk yield from calving to slaughter than did basal-diet cows (20.5 vs. 33.5 kg/d). Feed restriction decreased milk fat, protein, and lactose yields. Restriction also led to lower plasma insulin-like growth factor 1 and higher growth hormone concentrations. Restricted-diet cows had lighter mammary glands than did basal-diet cows. The total amount of DNA in the mammary gland and the size of the mammary acini were smaller in the restricted-diet group. Feed restriction had no significant effect on MEC proliferation at the time of slaughter but led to a higher level of apoptosis in the mammary gland. Gelatin zymography highlighted remodeling of the mammary extracellular matrix in restricted-diet cows. Udders from restricted-diet cows showed lower transcript expression of α-lactalbumin and kappa-casein. In conclusion, nutrient restriction resulted in lower milk yield in lactating dairy cows, partly due to modulation of MEC activity and a lower number of mammary cells. An association was found between feed restriction-induced changes in the growth hormone--insulin-like growth factor-1 axis and mammary epithelial cell dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Success in management of diabetes mellitus (DM) is defined as improvement of blood glucose concentrations and clinical signs. However, the psychological and social impact of DM and its daily treatment regimen on quality of life (QoL) of both animal and owner is uncertain. Hypothesis/Objectives: To design, validate, and apply a diabetic pet and owner-centered, individualized measure of impact of DM (DIAQoL-pet). Animals/Subjects: Two hundred and twenty-one owners of insulin-treated diabetic cats were recruited to complete the DIAQoL-pet. Methods: Discussions and pilot surveys with clinicians and owners of diabetic cats led to the design of 29 specific DM-associated QoL questions. Owners of diabetic cats completed the finalized survey. Each item was scored according to impact frequency and perceived importance. An item-weighted impact score (IWIS) for each item was calculated, as was an average-weighted impact score (AWIS) by averaging all IWISs. Principal component analysis and Cronbach's α calculation assessed the measure's reliability. Two overview questions measured overall QoL and diabetes-dependent QoL. Results: The DIAQoL-pet showed high reliability (Cronbach α 0.83). The AWIS was −1.76 ± 2.4 (mean ± SD). Areas reported as most negatively impacting QoL included: “boarding difficulties” (IWIS ± SD: −4.67 ± 5.3), “owner wanting more control” (−4.34 ± 4.7), “difficulties leaving cat with friends or family” (−4.21 ± 4.7), “worry” (−4.10 ± 3.9), “worry hypo” (−3.67 ± 3.5), “social life” (−3.48 ± 3.9), “costs” (−3.04 ± 3.8), and “work life” (−3.03 ± 3.7). Forty-one percent of owners believed their cat's life would be “a little better” without DM. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The DIAQoL-pet proved robust and identified specific areas most negatively impacting on diabetic cats and their owners' QoL. This tool warrants further investigation for use in clinical or research settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posthatch muscle growth is determined by the activation, differentiation, and fusion of satellite cells. Satellite cells composing an individual muscle are heterogeneous, which will differentially affect muscle growth. The proliferation and differentiation of turkey primary pectoralis major muscle cells were investigated in vitro at :1 d of age and at 4, 8, 16, 26, 35, 45, and 54 wk of age. The turkey was selected for these studies because turkey skeletal muscle fibroblasts do not grow in primary muscle cell cultures. Results from the proliferation analysis showed a decrease in proliferation by 8 wk of age. Differentiation into myotubes was significantly decreased by 4 wk of age and myotube diameter was decreased. The changes in muscle weight relative to total BW were measured for the anterior latissirnus dorsi, biceps brachii, pectoralis major, sartorius, biceps femoris, and gastrodnemius muscles to compare the relative growth of different muscles. The age at which the muscles reached their maximum relative weight was muscle-dependent, with the biceps brachii plateauing the earliest at 4 wk and the sartorius the latest at 45 wk of age. These data suggested that changes in inyogenic cells begin to occur early in muscle development and the activity of the satellite cells during these initial stages of posthatch growth is critical in overall muscle mass accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective--To investigate the effects of dexamethasone or levothyroxine sodium on endotoxin- induced alterations in glucose and insulin dynamics. Animals--24 horses. Procedures--Horses were randomly allocated to 3 treatment groups and received 48 mg of levothyroxine mixed with 200 g of oats, 20 mg of dexamethasone plus oats, or oats alone (control) for 15 days, followed by IV infusion of lipopolysaccharide (20 ng/kg) while individually housed in stalls. Frequently sampled IV glucose tolerance tests were performed prior to pretreatment, after pretreatment, and 20 hours after lipopolysaccharide administration. Area under the curve for plasma glucose and serum insulin concentrations was calculated, and minimal model analyses were performed. Results--Significant treatment-by-time effects were detected for insulin sensitivity (SI) and area under the curve for glucose and insulin in the 15-day pretreatment period. Insulin sensitivity significantly decreased over time in all treatment groups, with the largest decrease detected in the dexamethasone group. Administration of lipopolysaccharide further decreased mean SI by 71% and 63% in the dexamethasone and control groups, respectively, but did not affect horses in the levothyroxine group. Mean SI was the lowest in the dexamethasone group, but percentage reduction was the same for dexamethasone and control groups. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance--Insulin sensitivity decreased during the pretreatment period in all 3 groups, indicating that hospitalization affected glucose and insulin dynamics. Dexamethasone significantly lowered SI, and endotoxemia further exacerbated insulin resistance. In contrast, there was no additional effect of endotoxemia on SI in horses pretreated with levothyroxine, suggesting that this treatment prevented endotoxemia-induced insulin resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Estradiol increases basal growth hormone (GH) concentrations in sheep and cattle. This study sought to determine the effects of estradiol on GH-releasing hormone (GRH)-stimulated GH release in sheep. Growth hormone secretory characteristics, the GH response to GRH, and steady-state GH mRNA concentrations were determined in castrated male lambs treated with 2 different doses of estradiol 17-β for a 28-d experimental period. Although no differences between treatments in mean GH, basal GH, or GH pulse number were observed after 28 d of estradiol treatment, GH pulse amplitude was greater (P <0.05) in the 2.00-cm implant-treated animals than in the control and 0.75-cm implant group. The effect of estradiol treatment on GRH-stimulated GH release revealed differences between the control and estradiol-treated animals (P <0.05). The 15-min GH responses to 0.075μg/kg hGRH in the control, 0.75-cm, and 2.00-cm implant groups, respectively, were 76±10, 22.6±2.1, and 43.6±15.0ng/mL. Growth hormone mRNA content was determined for pituitary glands from the different treatment groups, and no differences in steady-state GH mRNA levels were observed. There were no differences in the mean plasma concentrations of IGF-I, cortisol, T3, or T4 from weekly samples. Growth hormone release from cultured ovine pituitary cells from control sheep was not affected by estradiol after 72h or in a subsequent 3-h incubation with estradiol combined with GRH. These data suggest that estradiol has differing actions on basal and GRH-stimulated GH concentrations in plasma, but the increase in pulse amplitude does not represent an increased pituitary sensitivity to GRH. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: To evaluate the estrogenic potential of secoisolariciresinol diglycoside (SDG) found in linseed meal (LSM) on visceral organ mass, IGF-I, and thyroid hormone (T3 and T4) concentrations, 48 multiparous, ovariectomized ewes (54.6±1.1kg) were used in a 3×4 factorial arrangement. Main effects were length of LSM feeding (0, 1, 7, or 14 d) and length of exposure to estradiol-17β (E2) implant (0, 6, or 24h prior to tissue collection). Implanting ewes with E2 for 24h increased liver mass relative to empty body weight (EBW; g/kg EBW) compared with ewes implanted for 0 or 6h (P ≤0.03), whereas feeding LSM for 14 d decreased liver mass compared with ewes fed LSM for 1 or 7 d (P ≤0.02). There was an LSM×E2 interaction (P =0.01) for duodenal mass (g/kg EBW), LSM, and E2 tended (P =0.07) to influence the stomach complex mass; however, ileal mass was not affected. Neither LSM nor E2 affected (P ≥0.12) CYP2C or CYP3A mRNA expression or cellularity of the liver. Exogenous E2 influenced circulating concentrations of IGF-I, T3, and T4. The estrogenic or anti-estrogenic potential of LSM is dependent upon the tissue, exposure to E2, and the duration of LSM feeding. Feeding LSM during gestation, lactation, or during the grow-finish phase warrants further investigation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The temporal pattern and sex effect of immune and stress hormone responses to a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge were assessed using a pig model. Secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 increased in a time-dependent manner following LPS infusion. There was also a time-dependent increase in secretion of the stress-related hormones cortisol, epinephrine (E), and norepinephrine (NE) following LPS, with peak concentrations attained within 30min. The magnitude of the TNF-α and IL-1β responses were both positively associated (P <0.05) with the magnitude of cortisol response following LPS, whereas serum IL-1β and IL-6 were positively correlated with the magnitude of E and NE responses following LPS. Acute-phase protein production was also time-dependently increased following LPS. The concentration of immune cells in circulation was decreased (P <0.05) at 5.5h post-LPS and negatively correlated with pro-inflammatory cytokine production. By 24h post-LPS, immune cell counts increased (P <0.05) and were positively associated with both pro-inflammatory cytokine and stress hormone production. The amplitude of pro-inflammatory cytokine response following LPS was affected (P <0.05) by sex classification; however, the magnitude of elevated cytokine concentrations was not. The magnitude of the NE response, but not of the E and cortisol responses, to LPS was influenced by sex (P <0.05). Similar to the pro-inflammatory cytokines, the magnitude of exposure to the stress hormones following LPS was not influenced by sex. The production of serum amyloid A (SAA) was influenced by sex, with barrows producing more SAA than gilts at 24h post-LPS (P <0.05). Collectively, these results demonstrate sex-specific, concomitant temporal changes in innate immune- and stress-related hormones. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The corpus luteum (CL) of the estrous cycle in the cow is a dynamic organ which has a life time of approximately 17-18 days. The main function of the CL is to secrete a large amount of progesterone (P) thereby supporting the achievement of pregnancy. As the CL matures, the steroidogenic cells establish contact with many capillaries and the matured CL is composed of many vascular endothelial cells that account for up to 50% of all CL cells. The bovine CL produces several major angiogenic and vasoactive foctors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), angiopoietin-1 and -2 (ANPT-1 and -2), prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), endothelin-1 (EDN1), angiotensin II (Ang II) and nitric oxide (NO). These factors regulate P secretion directly and/or indirectly within the CL. Moreover, different actions of PGF2α in the early cycle CL (non-luteolytic) and the mid cycle CL (luteolytic) may provide insight into the luteolysis cascade in the cow. The aim of the present review is to describe the current concepts of the local mechanisms for the cascade of development and regression of the bovine CL as regulated by luteal angiogenic and vasoactive factors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]