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In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of cryopreserving canine ovarian tissue using vitrification and slow freezing methods while investigating potential differences in cryotolerance based on follicular type and cryopreservation technique. Twenty-eight ovaries were collected from 14 anoestrus bitches of various breeds, aged between 2 and 5 years, and undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy. The ovaries were sectioned into small fragments and randomly assigned to three groups: vitrification, slow freezing, and a control group (fresh tissue). Vitrification was performed using cryotubes containing DAP 213 solution (2M DMSO, 1M acetamide, 3M propylene glycol) in two stages, while slow freezing involved cryotubes with 1.5M DMSO solution inserted into a programmable machine. The effects of cryopreservation were evaluated by histology and immunohistochemistry (cleaved caspase-3), to determine the percentage of cells undergoing apoptosis. Histological examination revealed that the slow freezing group exhibited a significantly higher percentage of intact follicles (45.75 %) compared to those subjected to vitrification (38.17 %; P = 0.01). Immunohistochemical evaluation further indicated that 84.21 % of the follicles in the slow freezing group did not express caspase-3, suggesting the absence of apoptosis. Conversely, vitrified samples exhibited significantly more apoptotic cells compared to other groups (P < 0.001). Furthermore, early antral follicles displayed a higher susceptibility to degeneration regardless of the cryopreservation method employed. Nevertheless, when comparing the cryopreserved groups, early antral follicles showed greater degeneration in slow freezing group, while preantral follicles were the most affected in the vitrification group. In conclusion, slow freezing demonstrated superior preservation of viable follicles compared to vitrification and emerged as the preferred technique for cryopreserving canine ovarian tissue. These findings contribute valuable insights into optimizing cryopreservation methods for canine ovarian tissue, potentially benefiting reproductive technologies and fertility preservation in canines. • There are differences in follicular cryotolerance according to the cryopreservation technique used. • Primordial and immature follicles are less prone to degeneration when cryopreserved by slow freezing. • Mature follicles are more sensitive to cryodamage and better preserved by vitrification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate detection of the ovulation day is considered as one of the most critical points to determine the proper time for bitch mating. So, the objective of the current study was detecting the optimal time of mating the bitches based on using either vaginal cytology or assaying the plasma progesterone levels with subsequent determination of the pregnancy rates. One hundred and twenty adult bitches were used in this study and classified into three groups; each group consists of 40 bitches. Group 1 in which bitches were optimized for mating based on the vaginal cytology, group 2 and group 3 in which bitches were allowed for mating whenever the plasma progesterone levels were 3-4 ng ̸ml and 4-5 ng ̸ml, respectively. The results showed that, there is no significant difference in the percentages of pregnancy rates between both group 1 and group 3 (87.5% and 92.5%, respectively) but both groups were significantly p˂0.05 higher than that of group 2 (77.5%). In conclusion, higher pregnancy rates will be obtained if the bitches were mated based on either presence of 80% or more cornified epithelial cells in the vaginal smear or the plasma progesterone level was between 4 to 5 ng ̸ ml. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The binding of steroid hormones to their specific receptors is necessary to exert their effects on target cells. Progesterone (P 4), a steroid hormone, carries out its effects through both genomic and non-genomic (the cell membrane-associated) receptors. This study aimed to ascertain luteal expression patterns of genomic and non-genomic progesterone receptors in bitches in physiological (early dioestrus and early pregnant) and pathological (pyometra) reproductive states. Luteal tissue was collected from the bitches at early dioestrus (ED, n = 5), early pregnant (EP, n = 5), and pyometra (PY, n = 5). The expression profiles of Steroidogenic Acute Regulator Protein (STAR), Progesterone Receptor (PGR), Membrane Progestin Receptors (PAQR5, PAQR7 and PAQR8), and Progesterone Membrane Components (PGMRC1 and PGMRC2) were examined at the mRNA levels using Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). Protein levels of PGR, PGMRC1 and PGMRC2 were detected by western blotting (WB). The STAR expression was found in all groups, with a statistical difference observed between EP and PY groups (P < 0.05). The protein level of PGR was determined to be highest in the EP group and lowest in the PY group. The expression of PAQR8 increased in the EP group (P < 0.05). The PAQR5 exhibited high expression in the EP group and low expression in the PY group (P < 0.05). PGRMC1 was more elevated in the EP group and lower in the PY group (P < 0.05). Protein levels of PGMRC1 and PGMRC2 were also observed at the highest expression in EP group. According to the altered expression profiles for examined receptors, we suggest that those progesterone receptors have roles in early pregnancy or pyometra in bitches. [Display omitted] • We examined the genomic and non-genomic receptors of progesterone in the CL of bitches in different reproductive states. • We identified that PGMRCs exhibits different expression patterns in various reproductive processes. • The mRNA expressions of PAQR5 and PAQR8 have a distinct profiles in different reproductive states in bitches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study seeks to address the critical role of understanding serum progesterone concentration in determining the optimal mating time. The primary objective of this research is to conduct a comparative analysis of serum progesterone results obtained from a commercial point-of-care immunological analyzer for progesterone measurement when compared to the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. The overarching goal is to evaluate the accuracy of these analyzers and subsequently establish standardized guidelines for optimal breeding time in bitches. The utilization of point-of-care immunological analyzer for progesterone measurement emerges as a valuable clinical tool in the precise determination of the optimal timing for mating or artificial insemination in bitches. Furthermore, the widespread adoption of this advanced technology within the veterinary community and among breeders is expected to enhance the precision of breeding decisions, ultimately leading to significant improvements in the overall dog breeding process. The measurement of serum progesterone often varies due to different laboratory methodologies and individual canine characteristics. In this investigation, serum progesterone outcomes obtained from a commercial point-of-care immunological analyzer, designed for efficient serum progesterone assessment in bitches, were compared with results derived from chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay from reference laboratories in Thailand. Our thorough documentation encompassed various parameters: mean, standard deviation, 95% confidence interval, and minimum and maximum serum progesterone concentration values. Additionally, we meticulously recorded the Pearson's correlation coefficient, Lin's concordance correlation coefficient, and the bias correction factor. Interestingly, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the means obtained by the point-of-care immunological analyzer and chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. The Pearson's correlation coefficient between the point-of-care immunological analyzer and chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay stood at 0.957, with Lin's concordance correlation coefficient for point-of-care immunological analyzer recorded as 0.949. Furthermore, the bias correction factor was established at 0.991. This investigation followed established chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay guidelines, modified to incorporate the mean and 95% confidence interval as criteria for optimal breeding time using the point-of-care immunological analyzer. In conclusion, the commercial point-of-care immunological analyzer emerges as a valuable tool, aiding in precisely determining the optimal timing for natural mating or artificial insemination in bitches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alterations in the serum protein pattern may be associated with many diseases, including neoplastic processes. In veterinary medicine, these changes are poorly understood. Therefore, this study was aimed at the analysis of the distribution of blood serum protein fractions separated by agarose gel electrophoresis, and at the determination of the concentrations of main acute phase proteins in bitches with mammary gland neoplasia. The evaluation was conducted on twelve female dogs with palpable single or multiple nodules in the parenchyma of the mammary gland and on ten tumor-free clinically healthy bitches to compare the possible differences in the obtained results. Blood serum was used to perform agarose gel electrophoresis of the main blood serum protein fractions and to analyze the concentrations of total serum proteins and the following canine acute phase proteins: serum amyloid A, haptoglobin, C-reactive protein and α1-acid glycoprotein. The concentrations of total serum proteins were slightly higher in bitches with mammary gland tumors. Serum protein electrophoresis showed lower mean concentrations of albumin and α1-globulins in the affected dogs, while the concentrations of α2-and β1-globulins were significantly higher (P=0.0032 and P=0.0021, respectively) compared to dogs without mammary gland tumors. In the concentrations of acute phase proteins, significantly higher mean concentrations of C-reactive protein and haptoglobin were obtained in dogs with mammary tumors (P=0.0025 and P=0.0002, respectively). The values of α1-acid glycoprotein did not vary markedly between the bitches with and without mammary tumors. Presented data suggest that neoplastic processes in the mammary gland may also alter the electrophoretic pattern of blood serum proteins and induce changes in the production of some inflammatory proteins.

Pyometra is a life-threatening uterine infection, accompanied by accumulation of intrauterine purulent exudate. The objective of this study was to show the recent laboratory and histopathological finding of pyometra in dogs with their correlation to their ages, and postoperative outcome. In this study, eleven cases of pyometra out of 115 female dogs of different ages and breeds were admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital/College of Veterinary Medicine/University of Sulaimani from 2017 to 2021 for the purpose of ovariohysterectomy (OHE). They were diagnosed according to history, clinical signs, physical examination and the trans-abdominal ultrasound inspections. The uterine content and biopsy were collected during OHE for bacteriological and histopathological study respectively. The pyometra-uteri were plated on blood agars for 24 hours. The growing bacterial colonies were inoculated on Mannitol Salt, MacConkey and Eosin Methylene Blue (EMB) agar, and their strains were determined using the VITEK 2 system. In the results, a significant difference was found between the cases of pyometra and the normal bitches, the average age of the pyometra-dogs was 265 months old (±176.56 STD), while the average age of non-pyometra bitches was 23 months old (± 15.64 STD). Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus cohnni were recovered from the infected uterus. Chronic suppurative endometritis or metritis were identified, which associated with purulent and mucopurulent inflammatory exudates in the uterine lumen, focal epithelial sloughing, endometrial hyperplasia and fibrosis, cystic dilatation of the endometrial gland and infiltration of the endometrial stroma by mixed inflammatory reaction consisting of mononuclear and neutrophilic polymorphonuclear inflammatory cells. It was concluded that pyometra was an agerelated infection and the periodic reproductive examination should be carried out for prompt surgical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The endometrium is the uterine layer wherein embryo implantation and development take place. Complete knowledge of the endometrium's normal histology is critical for advancing the diagnosis of subclinical endometrial diseases. Several researchers studied subclinical endometritis (END) in different species, but the cause/s remains unknown. Furthermore, simple and reliable diagnostic tools are still necessary to diagnose subclinical END. In the bitch (Canis lupus familiaris), diestrus has been selected as the stage of the reproductive cycle to perform the diagnosis of END. This work aimed to perform morphometric and cytological studies in bitches with normal endometrium (NE) and END in diestrus' stages. Forty-five mixed-breed clinically healthy bitches, in diestrus were used in this study. Biopsies and cytology were obtained from uterine horns, processed, and examined using a microscope. Samples from NE and END were selected, images acquired, and software for image analysis was used to measure the endometrial thickness (ET), external glandular diameter (EGD), internal glandular diameter (IGD), glandular density, and glandular cell height (CG). Significant differences were observed in GC height, EGD, IGD, and serum progesterone (P4) concentrations along diestrus. In END, both EGD and IGD were smaller than NE. The current study showed histomorphometric characteristics that appear to be influenced by P4 concentrations. In our opinion, it is relevant to consider how far the bitch had progressed into diestrus at the moment of the diagnosis of endometrial disease. Data recorded in the present study could be helpful to clarify cases of bitches with unexplained infertility or subfertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a mapping study conducted to evaluate the characteristics of where content that engages in perspectives or attitudes on female dog spaying is published. Three databases, CAB Direct, PubMed, and Scopus, were systematically searched. There were 84 out of 642 papers identified and screened for relevance on attitudes or perceptions on female canine spaying. These 84 articles were then examined for recurring authors, institutional representation, and publisher information. Additionally, information regarding the population being addressed, veterinarian or client, was noted with most literature addressing the veterinary perspective. Many important articles were published in a wide array of journals from many countries, which suggests the importance of not only browsing journals but also searching for relevant literature in databases like CAB Abstracts and MEDLINE.

Peripheral progesterone titers characterizing the reproductive cycle of the bitch are fairly well-documented in literature. Progesterone titers obtained via fluorescence-immunoassay technique at different points to the appearance-of-bloody-vulva-discharge (ABVD) in apparently healthy, exotic, multi-breed bitches (n = 76) that were subsequently inseminated were summarized using descriptive statistics. The recommended/predictable progesterone titer-ranges- PPTRs (ng/mL) and modality for insemination(s) were: 7.6-8.5 (inseminate-after-24-hours), 8.6-9.9 (inseminate-after-12-hours) and 10.0-20.0 (inseminate-immediately). The length of days from ABVD to the point of obtaining a PPTR (Mean ± SD) was 12.43 ± 3.38 days (range 8-17 days). The frequencies of progesterone assay per bitch were: one-fold (39.47%), two-fold (39.47%). three-fold (18.43%) and four-fold (2.63%). Observations on pregnancy statuses of bitches based on frequency of progesterone assay(s) were: 57.90% (pregnant, multiple-assay), 5.26% (pregnant, one-fold-assay), 26.32% (not-pregnant, multiple-assay) and 10.52% (not-pregnant, single-assay). The litter sizes at the PPTRs (Mean ± SD) i.e., 7.83 ± 1.86 (7.6-8.5 ng/mL), 7.86 ± 1.73 (8.6-9.9 ng/mL) and 8.83 ± 1.86 (10.0-20.0 ng/mL) were comparable with that for the entire study i.e., 8.16 ± 1.87. Similarly, the range of litter sizes at the three PPTRs as well as that for the entire study were same i.e., 5-10 puppies. It is concluded as follows: multiple progesterone assays resulted in higher pregnancy outcome and, litter sizes were not affected as long as insemination(s) occurred within the recommended progesterone titer-ranges. We recommend a comprehensive investigation of all pregnancy determinants, even for apparently healthy dogs, by dog-lovers and, regarding progesterone, multiple-assays, rather than one-fold assay, will upscale their breeding business.

The measurement of serum progesterone often varies due to different laboratory methodologies and individual canine characteristics. In this investigation, serum progesterone outcomes obtained from a commercial point-of-care immunological analyzer, designed for efficient serum progesterone assessment in bitches, were compared with results derived from chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay from reference laboratories in Thailand. Our thorough documentation encompassed various parameters: mean, standard deviation, 95% confidence interval, and minimum and maximum serum progesterone concentration values. Additionally, we meticulously recorded the Pearson’s correlation coefficient, Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient, and the bias correction factor. Interestingly, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the means obtained by the point-of-care immunological analyzer and chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. The Pearson’s correlation coefficient between the point-of-care immunological analyzer and chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay stood at 0.957, with Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient for point-of-care immunological analyzer recorded as 0.949. Furthermore, the bias correction factor was established at 0.991. This investigation followed established chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay guidelines, modified to incorporate the mean and 95% confidence interval as criteria for optimal breeding time using the point-of-care immunological analyzer. In conclusion, the commercial point-of-care immunological analyzer emerges as a valuable tool, aiding in precisely determining the optimal timing for natural mating or artificial insemination in bitches.

Peripheral progesterone titers characterizing the reproductive cycle of the bitch are fairly welldocumented in literature. Progesterone titers obtained via fluorescence-immunoassay technique at different points to the appearance-of-bloody-vulva-discharge (ABVD) in apparently healthy, exotic, multi-breed bitches (n = 76) that were subsequently inseminated were summarized using descriptive statistics. The recommended/predictable progesterone titer-ranges-PPTRs (ng/mL) and modality for insemination(s) were: 7.6-8.5 (inseminate-after-24-hours), 8.6-9.9 (inseminate-after-12-hours) and 10.0-20.0 (inseminate-immediately). The length of days from ABVD to the point of obtaining a PPTR (Mean ± SD) was 12.43 ± 3.38 days (range 8-17 days). The frequencies of progesterone assay per bitch were: one-fold (39.47%), two-fold (39.47%). three-fold (18.43%) and four-fold (2.63%). Observations on pregnancy statuses of bitches based on frequency of progesterone assay(s) were: 57.90% (pregnant, multiple-assay), 5.26% (pregnant, one-fold-assay), 26.32% (not-pregnant, multiple-assay) and 10.52% (not-pregnant, single-assay). The litter sizes at the PPTRs (Mean ± SD) i.e., 7.83 ± 1.86 (7.6-8.5 ng/mL), 7.86 ± 1.73 (8.6-9.9 ng/mL) and 8.83 ± 1.86 (10.0-20.0 ng/mL) were comparable with that for the entire study i.e., 8.16 ± 1.87. Similarly, the range of litter sizes at the three PPTRs as well as that for the entire study were same i.e., 5-10 puppies. It is concluded as follows: multiple progesterone assays resulted in higher pregnancy outcome and, litter sizes were not affected as long as insemination(s) occurred within the recommended progesterone titer-ranges. We recommend a comprehensive investigation of all pregnancy determinants, even for apparently healthy dogs, by dog-lovers and, regarding progesterone, multiple-assays, rather than one-fold assay, will upscale their breeding business. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among diseases of the reproductive organs of bitches, pyometra is most often registered. Objective diagnosis of this disease in dogs by practicing veterinarians is difficult and uninformative. In addition, to date, effective methods of treatment for pyometra, which allow for restoring the productivity of the animal, have yet to be sufficiently developed. The purpose of the research was clinical trials of an antibacterial drug based on amoxicillin trihydrate, which is used for the medical treatment of pyometra in bitches – “Amoksidev 15”. The research was conducted on purebred and purebred bitches treated in the clinic with a pyometra (empyema) diagnosis of the uterus. Conservative treatment of bitches, using the antibacterial drug “Amoksidev 15” as part of a complex scheme, which included the following drugs: Dinolytic (enzaprost-F), No-shpa, Devivit Complex, Tioprotectin 2.5 %, herbal decoctions (nettles, raspberries, chamomile, boar's uterus) led to the recovery of 70 % of sick animals. When using drug therapy (animals of the control group), the clinically expressed manifestation of the disease lasted eight days on average. In the blood of these animals, an increase in the number of erythrocytes by 23.2 % was observed, and the number of leukocytes increased by 39.0 %. Therefore, the complex therapy used in the experiment resulted in the faster restoration of the reference values of the body's physiological indicators than in the control group animals, which included Enroxil 5 % as part of the complex therapeutic scheme. The prospect of further research will be clinical trials of the antibacterial drug “Amoksidev 15” in complex therapy for treating pyometra in cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted in 18 healthy, fertile, non-pregnant, dioestrous female dogs to evaluate the efficacy of PGF2α analogue (cloprostenol sodium) in shortening the dioestrus. Bitches that were diagnosed non-pregnant by trans-abdominal ultrasonography, on day 30 of breeding and their dioestrual stage confirmed by serum progesterone assay, were randomly allotted to three groups of six bitches each. Group I and II bitches were treated with cloprostenol sodium @ 2.5 µg/kg b. wt., subcutaneously, thrice at 48 h interval, beginning on day 30 and 45 of last breeding, respectively. Group III animals were assigned as control and were left untreated. Fifty days from first injection of cloprostenol, serum progesterone assay was carried out among the animals in Group I and II whereas the same was done among Group III bitches on day 90 after last breeding. Among Group I and II, mean serum progesterone concentrations were 0.93 ± 0.04 and 0.87 ± 0.01ng/ mL, respectively whereas the level was 1.72 ± 0.9 ng/mL among control group; highly significant difference (p

Abstract Objective This study aimed to investigate the short-term effect of ovariohysterectomy on urine levels of serotonin and its relation to levels of cortisol, testosterone and progesterone in female dogs. Seven bitches were studied before surgical ovariohysterectomy and then once a week during 4 weeks. Spontaneously voided urine samples were collected and concentration ratios of hormone/creatinine in urine were analysed. Results The bitches had significantly lower levels of cortisol, testosterone, and progesterone 1 week after ovariohysterectomy compared with before and the levels stayed low throughout the study (P ≤ 0.05). Interestingly, serotonin levels tended to increase 4 weeks after surgery (P = 0.08). A positive correlation between cortisol and progesterone was found before and after surgery. After surgery, serotonin was positively correlated with cortisol and progesterone (P ≤ 0.05).

The problem of treating tumors in dogs remains relevant due to the complexity of pathogenetic cascades, lack of common methodological approaches to diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients, insufficient number of animals in groups, the described nature of the results, incorrect "mechanical" borrowing of therapeutic protocols from human medicine. The proposed treatment regimens do not provide the desired results, there is a steady trend to increase the number of small pets with breast tumors. Therefore, it is important to find alternative treatments for dogs with breast neoplasms, among which, first of all, should be noted the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which cause a positive effect by inhibiting the expression of cyclooxygenase-2, activating apoptosis and inhibiting cancer cell migration. Potentially effective therapeutic methods are electroporation and electrochemotherapy, which can significantly increase the concentration of chemotherapeutic agents in cancer cells against the background of minimal toxicity to healthy tissues. The important role of hypercoagulation in the mechanisms of development and progression of breast tumors in dogs justifies the use of antithrombotic therapy in cancer patients, especially low molecular weight heparins, which can improve the effectiveness of therapeutic protocols and prevent tumor metastasis. It is shown that these methods as part of complex treatment regimens increase the effectiveness of conventional protocols of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, as well as surgery. However, further studies of the pathogenetic aspects of these treatments for breast tumors in bitches and the possibility of combining them with other therapeutic regimens are needed.

Background and Aim: The concentration of serum progesterone is commonly used to determine the optimal mating time in bitches, and to diagnose reproductive-related abnormalities. This study aims to compare the serum progesterone results obtained by rapid fluorescence immunochromatography assay (RFICA) with those obtained by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) from the same serum samples to develop a standard guideline for optimal breeding time. Materials and Methods: Serum progesterone levels were measured in 124 bitches using RFICA and CMIA. Simple linear regression and correlation analyses were performed to analyze the data. The percentage difference between the maximum and minimum progesterone values in the same serum sample in the same assay was compared using Wilcoxon's rank-sum test. Results: The present study showed a strong linear dependence of the results obtained by RFICA on those obtained by CMIA as R2=0.8976, with regression coefficient of 0.9474 and p0.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that it is presumably acceptable to use the RFICA and CMIA methods interchangeably for quality progesterone measurements in serum samples from bitches. However, when considering the use of the RFICA method, it is advisable to carefully interpret the results and follow the interpretation guidelines. Finally, RFICA in the present study provides a reliable and convenient option for veterinarian practitioners to measure canine progesterone levels in-house.

The problem of treating tumors in dogs remains relevant due to the complexity of pathogenetic cascades, lack of common methodological approaches to diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients, insufficient number of animals in groups, the described nature of the results, incorrect "mechanical" borrowing of therapeutic protocols from human medicine. The proposed treatment regimens do not provide the desired results, there is a steady trend to increase the number of small pets with breast tumors. Therefore, it is important to find alternative treatments for dogs with breast neoplasms, among which, first of all, should be noted the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which cause a positive effect by inhibiting the expression of cyclooxygenase-2, activating apoptosis and inhibiting cancer cell migration. Potentially effective therapeutic methods are electroporation and electrochemotherapy, which can significantly increase the concentration of chemotherapeutic agents in cancer cells against the background of minimal toxicity to healthy tissues. The important role of hypercoagulation in the mechanisms of development and progression of breast tumors in dogs justifies the use of antithrombotic therapy in cancer patients, especially low molecular weight heparins, which can improve the effectiveness of therapeutic protocols and prevent tumor metastasis. It is shown that these methods as part of complex treatment regimens increase the effectiveness of conventional protocols of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, as well as surgery. However, further studies of the pathogenetic aspects of these treatments for breast tumors in bitches and the possibility of combining them with other therapeutic regimens are needed.

Background: Epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is a glycoprotein responsible for multiple cellular functions that includes cell-to-cell adhesion and signal transduction. Studies in human breast cancer demonstrated that its overexpression has been linked to a more aggressive histological phenotype. However, in canine mammary tumors, its use is still scarce and its function, remains unknown. The main goal of the present study was to characterize the expression of EpCAM in canine mammary malignant tumors and associate its expression with clinicopathological features. Materials, Methods & Results: Forty-eight canine mammary samples were analyzed in the present study and went through the Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) routine technique for histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis. EpCAM expression was evaluated considering the total immunolabelling (TI) which consists of the addition of 2 parameters: proportion score (PS) and intensity score (IS). Thirteen (27.1%) cases showed weak expression, 9 (18.7%) were characterized by a moderate expression and 27 (54.2%) were classified as intense. EpCAM overexpression was described in 36 (72.9%) primary tumors and in 5 lymph node metastases (71.4%). Immunoreactivity was, mainly, characterized by a staining in the lateral cell membrane of luminal epithelial cells, both in primary tumors and lymph node metastases. The statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS Statistics, version 24. Clinicopathological features, such as histological grade (P = 0.027), intravascular emboli (P = 0.004) and lymph node metastases (P = 0.016) demonstrated to be associated with a more aggressive histological type. Intravascular emboli and lymph node metastases were also linked to a higher histological grade. Discussion: EpCAM overexpression has been described in the literature both in canine mammary tumors and breast cancer. While the results in breast cancer could be ambiguous, depending on the tumor subtype, in the present study our findings demonstrated that overexpression was present in more than 50% of the total cases evaluated. In addition, immunoreactivity was also in accordance with the literature that describes membranous staining as the most prevalent pattern type. It was not possible to correlate overexpression with histological type and histological grade. However, those clinicopathological features are essential to evaluate tumor prognosis. For instance, our results demonstrated that histological type was statistically significant with histological grade (P = 0.027), intravascular emboli (P = 0.004) and lymph node metastases (P = 0.016). Additionally, the Nottingham system was statistically significant with intravascular emboli (P = 0.033) and lymph node metastases (P = 0.006). These findings have also been described in similar studies using canine mammary tissues in bitches. When it comes to pattern of expression in primary tumors and lymph nodes metastases, our findings described that neoplastic cell presented the same phenotype in these 2 different locations. In addition, loss of expression was also described in cluster cells within the subcapsular area which reflects the idea that the expression of EpCAM molecule changes according to time, which could be translated into the multistep process of metastases. Finally, it demonstrates that the development of neoplasia is not something static, but rather dynamic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The tumor microenvironment is an important target of studies in different types of neoplasms. Understanding the role of general components such as immune, vascular and fibroblastic cells has the objective of contributing to prognosis and treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between mast cells and angiogenesis in benign and malignant mammary neoplasms by investigating the role of degranulation and microlocation of mast cells and neoformed vessels in canine mammary neoplasms. Materials, Methods & Results: Mammary glands (n = 122) from 50 female dogs submitted to mastectomy without chemotherapy were evaluated and categorized into 3 groups: control group (n = 46); malignant group (n = 57) and benign group (n = 19). Lymph nodes without changes (n = 59) and with metastases (n = 6) were also evaluated. To evaluate the MCD (mast cell density) and angiogenesis, Toluidine Blue (0.1%) and Gomori’s Trichrome techniques were performed and adapted from previous studies. Photomicrographs of 10 hotspot areas on a 40x objective lens of the mammary glands and lymph nodes were captured to assess MCD and angiogenesis. In the absence of these areas, random fields were captured. For the mammary glands of the malignant and benign groups, 20 fields were analyzed, as the analysis considered the microlocation (peritumoral and intratumoral). Counting was performed manually using ImageJ software version 1.42q by 2 observers. The statistical analysis were performed using SPSS software version 19.0. The most frequent histological type in the malignant group was carcinoma in mixed tumor (68.42%; 39/57) and in the benign group was benign mixed tumor (57.89%; 11/19). Female dogs without breed pattern were more frequently affected represented 70% of the animals and the mean age was 9 years and 8 months ± 3 years and 1 month. The granulated density of mast cells and peritumor vessels was higher in the malignant group (P = 0.03; P = 0.02). There was also a positive correlation between intratumor and total vessel density and mast cell density. There was no significance between the malignant and benign groups in regard with fibrosis density. Discussion: In this study were observed a greater density of blood vessels in malignant group, suggesting the participation of blood vessels for neoplastic proliferation. Furthermore, these vessels were located in the peritumoral region as in previous studies. The positive correlation between MCD and blood vessels was similar to a previous study performed in canine breast carcinomas and breast cancer in women. Regarding microlocation, another study also found higher MCD in the peritumoral region than in the intratumoral region of canine carcinomas. Although there are already studies for this purpose in cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma in humans, we believe this is the first study to investigate the role of mast cell degranulation in mammary neoplasm of bitches. The MCD was not significant among the malignant and benign groups and in the mammary glands of the control group the MCD was higher, as observed by other studies. Future studies should be associated the survival time and the presence of metastases in order to confirm the findings. In view of these findings, we may conclude that a higher density of mast cells is related to a higher density of blood vessels and that these are more abundant in malignant neoplasms, which reinforces the crucial role of angiogenesis in the neoplastic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Doppler ultrasonography enables the investigation of vascular blood flow indexes in gestational assessment, being able to detect vascular resistances that can affect fetal and maternal circulation, such as cases of placental insufficiency, associated with fetal cerebral oxygenation deficit and fetal distress. The study aims to assume hemodynamically normal values in the final third of gestation in bitches, of the umbilical, uteroplacental, middle cerebral and internal carotid arteries, correlating the obtained Doppler velocimetric indexes, for the assessment of the feto-placental circulation, and prediction of fetal viability indexes, fetal centralization and probable date of delivery. Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty healthy bitches were examined in the final third of gestation (40-60 days). These were evaluated by Doppler ultrasonography at 2 times (T): T1: between 40-50 days; T2: between 51-60 of gestation. At each time point, the peak systolic velocities (PSV) and end-diastolic velocities (EDV) used to obtain the pulsatility (IP) and resistivity (IR) indexes of the umbilical, uteroplacental, middle cerebral and internal carotid arteries of fetuses were evaluated. Also, the systole/diastole (S/D) ratio of these vessels was evaluated. The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and Tukey test, using a P value equal to 5%. A significant difference was observed between velocities and Doppler velocimetric indexes between the 2 phases of the gestational final third in all studied vessels. There was an increase in the values of PSV and EDV and a decrease in the indexes, as the probable date of delivery approached. The analysis of the umbilical cord IR showed an increase from P1 to P2 (P < 0.05), while the IP decreased at the same time. For all studied variables there was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). In the uteroplacental artery, similarly to the umbilical artery, the PSV and EDV values showed an increase between P1 and P2, while the S/D ratio decreased up to 60 days of gestation (P2). The IR and IP of these vessels decreased during the study interval in pregnant bitches. The studied variables showed a statistically significant difference when analyzed comparatively between P1 and P2 (P < 0.05). As for the middle cerebral artery and internal carotid artery, the PSV and EDV values increased until the end of pregnancy. Likewise, the Doppler velocimetric values and the S/D ratio decreased until the end of pregnancy (P2). Discussion: The hemodynamic values obtained for the umbilical artery and uterine artery were significantly different between 40 and 50 days of gestation (P1) and 50 and 60 days of gestation (P2), with a decrease in vascular resistance and an increase in velocities. It can be related to a greater association of maternal-fetal blood perfusion, due to the increased demand for the development of the fetus. The Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) also showed changes between P1 and P2, with an increase in PSV and EDV in the final third of pregnancy, and the S/D ratio was reduced, differing significantly between P1 and P2. The systolic (PSV) and diastolic (EDV) flow velocities of the internal carotid artery increased progressively, while the IR, IP and the S/D ratio decreased, between the evaluated periods (P1 and P2), providing greater flow in canine fetuses, maintaining normal heart rate, indicating positive fetal viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Obesity may be associated with the onset of mammary tumors in women. In companion animals, these data are still scarce, mainly associating the clinic of the patient with laboratory and histological findings. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and laboratory aspects of female dogs with mammary neoplasia, investigating whether they are related to obesity. Four groups of spayed or non-spayed female dogs were studied, divided into (G1) female dogs without mammary tumor and normal body condition score (BCS), (G2) female dogs without mammary tumor and obese, (G3) female dogs with mammary tumor and normal BCS and (G4) female dogs with mammary tumor and obese. BCS, canine body mass index (CBMI), blood count, glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides and cytopathological and histopathological examinations were evaluated. Mixed-breed animals were the most prevalent in this study (67.5%). There was a limitation regarding the use of CBMI related to body proportionality. Considering the 28 tumors evaluated, carcinoma in mixed tumor was the most prevalent malignant histological type, while adenomyoepithelioma was the most prevalent benign histological type. It was possible to conclude that obesity was not related to clinical and laboratory changes in the female dogs affected with mammary neoplasias. In addition, no relationship was noted between BCS and CBMI with the histological type or malignancy of mammary neoplasia, since the malignant histological types were the most prevalent tumors in both the ideal score group and the overweight to obese group.

ABSTRACT: Mammary tumors in female dogs are the most frequent and corresponds to half of the canine tumors. The objectives of this study were to determine the risk factors associated with the occurrence of mammary tumors in female dogs and to evaluate the macroscopic characteristics of these neoformations, using 386 dogs from the “Outubro Rosa Pets” events done within the cities of Uberlândia and Patos de Minas, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, in 2015 (n=194), 2016 (n=105) and 2017 (n=87). For the determination of risk factors, the binary logistic regression test (P5cm). At least 15.4% (14/91) of the dogs had one of the regional lymph nodes increased. In conclusion, the occurrence of mammary tumors in the evaluated population was 23.6% and that age, overweight and non-realization of ovariohysterectomy are risk factors associated with the development of mammary tumors.

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of laparoscopic ovariectomy (LOVE) and conventional open ovariectomy (COVE) methods on early-stage surgical stress parameters [proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-a and IL-6), acute phase proteins (CRP, Hp), inducible nitric oxide synthase (INOS), mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK14) and cortisol], pain scores and D-Dimer (DD) levels in 36 healthy bitches. Three-port laparoscopic ovariectomy was performed on the LOVE group while routine ovariectomy was performed on the COVE group. Surgical stress parameters and pain scores (University of Melbourne pain scale) were assessed during the pre- (0 hour) and postoperative periods (1st, 3rd, 6th hour and 7 days). DD analyses were performed between 0-1 hours to compare coagulation rates. At the early postoperative stage, operation time, surgical stress, pain scores and DD levels were lower (P<0.05) in the LOVE group compared to the COVE group. No differences were found in terms of surgical stress and pain score between the groups on day 7 post-operation. As a result, we found that LOVE, a minimal invasive method, caused less surgical stress and post-operative pain as well as a shorter operation period compared to COVE and the patients returned to their preoperative activities in a shorter time. Therefore, it was concluded that the three-port LOVE was more advantageous compared to COVE in terms of safety and patient comfort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the effect of Ovarian Tissue Cryosystem (OTC) on follicular morphology and density, as well as on stromal cell density of vitrified canine ovarian tissue. Canine ovarian fragments collected from adult female dogs in stages of the random oestrous cycle were fixed (FC, fresh control) or vitrified (VIT) with an OTC device. After vitrification and warming, the fragments were fixed for histological analysis. Overall, the mean percentage of normal pre‐antral follicles decreased after vitrification procedure (FC: 74.5% ± 1.6% vs. VIT: 52.05% ± 1.5%). Although the rates of normal primordial (71.1% ± 1.8%) and secondary (0.7% ± 0.4%) follicles vitrified showed a reduction (p <.05), vitrification using OTC showed considerable preservation of follicles, when compared to the fresh control (81.1% ± 1.5% and 2.3% ± 0.6%, respectively). The mean follicular density was maintained after vitrification (FC: 199.65 ± 12.8 vs. VIT: 199.68 ± 10.8), whereas the stromal cell density decreased in the VIT group. Based on the results, we recommend the use of OTC for vitrification of canine ovarian tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: The objective of the present study was to obtain echobiometric values for the most important canine maternal-fetal tissues using high-definition ultrasonography (HDUS) trying to update the formulas for predicting gestational age. Twelve healthy bitches of brachycephalic breeds weighing 7-13kg and aged one to four years were included. The fetuses were analyzed every day using conventional and high-definition ultrasonography from the eighth day after artificial insemination until the day of delivery, using the ACUSON S2000/SIEMENS ultrasound equipment and specific software. Embryonic and fetal structures; diameter of the embryonic vesicle; length of the embryo; biparietal diameter, abdominal length and kidney height; length of the femur, humerus, scapula, radius, and tibia; thickening of the stomach wall; adrenal length; and cardiac size were measured. These variables were correlated with gestational and adjusted tested according to regression models. The results obtained (P

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the short-term effect of ovariohysterectomy on urine levels of serotonin and its relation to levels of cortisol, testosterone and progesterone in female dogs. Seven bitches were studied before surgical ovariohysterectomy and then once a week during 4 weeks. Spontaneously voided urine samples were collected and concentration ratios of hormone/creatinine in urine were analysed. Results: The bitches had significantly lower levels of cortisol, testosterone, and progesterone 1 week after ovariohysterectomy compared with before and the levels stayed low throughout the study (P ≤ 0.05). Interestingly, serotonin levels tended to increase 4 weeks after surgery (P = 0.08). A positive correlation between cortisol and progesterone was found before and after surgery. After surgery, serotonin was positively correlated with cortisol and progesterone (P ≤ 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the reproductive pattern of bitches by estimation the optimum time of ovulation and kisspeptin level. The study included 245 bitches (different breeds), from March/2019 to the end of February/2020. Canine ovulation timing kits was applied in order to determine the ovulation time. For estimation of Kisspeptin, blood collection of 80 samples allocated approximately 7 samples for each month by using ELISA kit. The results revealed the time of ovulation ranged from 2 to 5 days after the beginning of the estrus phase. The results showed that concentration of kisspeptin during different phases of the estrous cycle was (257.01±11.08, 262.93±9.15, 227.98±14.91 and 244.89±11.99) pg/mL for Proestrus, Estrus, Diestrus, and Anestrus respectively with no significant (p>0.05) differences among different estrous cycle phase. The concentration of kisspeptin in which distributed according to the season showed that it was (218.26±11.92, 254.12±10.09, 246.00±10.22, and 287.11±9.00) pg/ml for Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter, respectively and there was a significant difference (p<0.05) between Summer and Winter. As a conclusion, the ovulation timing kit was accurate and useful for detecting the time of ovulation and the season had a significant effect on the kisspeptin level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PICO question In bitches, is an ovariectomy/ovariohysterectomy by laparoscopy superior to an ovariectomy/ovariohysterectomy by a midline surgical laparotomy in causing less postoperative pain? Clinical bottom line Category of research question Treatment The number and type of study designs reviewed Seven papers were critically appraised. They comprised of three blinded randomised controlled trials, two non-blinded randomised controlled trials and two non-blinded non-randomised controlled trials Strength of evidence Weak Outcomes reported In bitches, ovariectomy/ovariohysterectomy by laparoscopy is superior to ovariectomy/ovariohysterectomy by a midline laparotomy in causing less postoperative pain Conclusion Despite the widely held belief that laparoscopic surgery is associated with less postoperative pain, the available veterinary literature only provides weak evidence to support this in bitches undergoing ovariectomy/ovariohysterectomy. There are many uncontrolled variables to consider across these underpowered studies including surgeon number (and experience), the choice of perioperative analgesia, method of pain scoring and the laparoscopic technique. It is therefore clear that laparoscopic procedures cannot be viewed equally and the strength of the answer to the clinical question may change based upon these variables. It is also important to note that the incidence of complications or the effect of the above variables on postoperative pain have not been critically reviewed and warrant careful consideration when deciding on a laparoscopic approach How to apply this evidence in practice The application of evidence into practice should take into account multiple factors, not limited to: individual clinical expertise, patient’s circumstances and owners’ values, country, location or clinic where you work, the individual case in front of you, the availability of therapies and resources. Knowledge Summaries are a resource to help reinforce or inform decision making. They do not override the responsibility or judgement of the practitioner to do what is best for the animal in their care.

Background and Aim: The concentration of serum progesterone is commonly used to determine the optimal mating time in bitches, and to diagnose reproductive-related abnormalities. This study aims to compare the serum progesterone results obtained by rapid fluorescence immunochromatography assay (RFICA) with those obtained by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) from the same serum samples to develop a standard guideline for optimal breeding time. Materials and Methods: Serum progesterone levels were measured in 124 bitches using RFICA and CMIA. Simple linear regression and correlation analyses were performed to analyze the data. The percentage difference between the maximum and minimum progesterone values in the same serum sample in the same assay was compared using Wilcoxon's rank-sum test. Results: The present study showed a strong linear dependence of the results obtained by RFICA on those obtained by CMIA as R2=0.8976, with regression coefficient of 0.9474 and p<0.05, including the regression model was CMIA = (0.9483 × RFICA) - 0.761. Moreover, five critical measurement times during estrous in bitches showed statistically significant differences (p<0.05), except at the fertilizable period, which showed a non-significant difference (p>0.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that it is presumably acceptable to use the RFICA and CMIA methods interchangeably for quality progesterone measurements in serum samples from bitches. However, when considering the use of the RFICA method, it is advisable to carefully interpret the results and follow the interpretation guidelines. Finally, RFICA in the present study provides a reliable and convenient option for veterinarian practitioners to measure canine progesterone levels in-house. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a mapping study conducted to evaluate the characteristics of where content that engages in perspectives or attitudes on female dog spaying is published. Three databases, CAB Direct, PubMed, and Scopus, were systematically searched. There were 84 out of 642 papers identified and screened for relevance on attitudes or perceptions on female canine spaying. These 84 articles were then examined for recurring authors, institutional representation, and publisher information. Additionally, information regarding the population being addressed, veterinarian or client, was noted with most literature addressing the veterinary perspective. Many important articles were published in a wide array of journals from many countries, which suggests the importance of not only browsing journals but also searching for relevant literature in databases like CAB Abstracts and MEDLINE.

Background: Pyometra is defined as chronic purulent inflammation of the uterus that causes changes in hematological and biochemical parameters. The disease is characterized with bacterial infection and pus accumulation in the uterus. Transabdominal B-mode ultrasonography provides easy and certain diagnosis of this disease. The hemodynamic changes in pyometra are evaluated by Doppler ultrasonography. The aim of the study is to determine the changes in hematological parameters and Doppler indices in bitches with pyometra, diestrus healthy bitches and evaluate the relationship between hematological parameters and hemodynamic indices within the both groups. Materials, Methods & Results: A total number of 27 bitches were enrolled in the study. The healthy diestrus bitches (group H; n = 7) aged 6.2 ± 1.14 years, weighted 14.57 ± 3.75 kg. The bitches with pyometra (group PYO; n = 20) aged 9.1 ± 0.62 years and weighted 17.65 ± 2.60 kg. Before all bitches had ovariohisterectomy, hematological analyses were performed. Transabdominal ultrasonography (USG) was performed with a 6.6 MHz convex transducer. The widest cross-sectional uterine diameter (UD), wall thickness of uterine horns (UWT) and presence of luminal content were evaluated. Diameter of the uterine artery (DUA) was measured on a mapped color image using the USG software program. The examination was carried out with pulsed-wave Doppler USG to characterize the waveform of the uterine artery (UA). Anechogenic areas in uterine lumen, increase in UD and UWT were observed in group PYO. All cases in group PYO had luminal content in both uterine horns ranging from 1.2 to 5.6 cm. The DUAs were measured in group H and in group PYO as 1.75 ± 0.03 mm, 1.94 ± 0.08 mm; respectively (P < 0.05). The PI and RI values of group PYO were lower than group H (P < 0.001). Hematological analysis results showed that RBC, HGB, HCT levels in group PYO were lower than group H (P < 0.001). However, WBC, NEU, LYM, MONO levels in group PYO were higher than group H. Hemodynamic indices were positively correlated with RBC, HGB, HCT, whereas they were inversely correlated with NEU, WBC, UD and UWT. Also, PI value was negatively correlated with MONO. Discussion: Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) is a predisposing factor for development of the pyometra in bitches. Besides, naturally occurring CEH and pyometra can arise independently from each other. The enlarged uterine body exhibits the development of intense exudative processes due to the higher proliferative stimulation in uterine infections. Uterine infections were associated with increase in uterine blood flow. Elevated uterine blood flow, vasodilatation and angiogenesis arise during inflammatory response. The inflammatory process leads to a diminution in hemodynamic indices of uterine arteries. Total blood count parameters are affected from the presence of pyometra. Elevated levels of leukocytes in bitches with pyometra are associated with worsening prognosis. Erythrocyte diapedesis into the lumen of the uterus, toxic depression of erythropoiesis in the bone marrow can cause anemia. In conclusion, hematological parameters were strongly correlated with hemodynamic indices in this study. Reduced RBC, HGB and HCT levels, decreased PI and RI values and elevated levels of UD, UWT, DUA were observed in group PYO. To our knowledge, this was the first study that observed the increase in DUA during pyometra in bitches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Periostin (POSTN) has a significant role in proliferation and migration of tumour cells as well as tumour progression. This study aimed to determinate POSTN expression in cancer cells in malignant and benign tumours of the mammary gland in female dogs. Materials and Methods: All together 83 cancers, 24 adenomas and 7 unchanged fragments of the mammary glands of bitches were investigated. Immunohistochemistry was performed using anti-POSTN, Ki-67 and HER2 antibodies. Results: POSTN expression was observed in cancer cells in 31.3% of malignancies and 12.5% of benign tumours. A significantly positive correlation between expression of POSTN in cancer cells and the degree of histological malignancy, expression of Ki-67 antigen and expression of POSTN in CAFs was found. Conclusion: The obtained results suggest the possible participation of POSTN in the process of carcinogenesis and progression of mammary tumors in bitches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The estrus cycle of bitches is divided into four phases: proestrus, estrus, diestrus and anestrus, during which different morphological changes, and also cyclic changes of estrogen and progesterone receptors are present. Several pathological changes can be differentiated on the endometrium, but one of these is the most important - cystic endometrial hyperplasia, which frequently develops into pyometra. The aim of the present study was to describe morphological characteristics, and expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors on the endometrium of mixedbreed bitches during the different phases of the estrus cycle, cystic endometrial hyperplasia and pyometra. The uterus and ovaries of 36 mixed breed bitches in different phases of the estrus cycle and also with cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) and chronic purulent endometritis - pyometra were examined macroscopically, histopathologically, and immunohistochemically for estrogen receptors (ΕR) and progesterone receptors (PR). During proestrus uterine cells showed a weak reaction for both estrogen and progesterone receptors, but during estrus a large number of uterine cells showed a strong reaction on estrogen receptors and moderate reaction on progesterone receptors. On the contrary, during diestrus the scores for the estrogen receptors decreased, while the progesterone receptors level increased - uterine cells expressed strong reaction for progesterone receptors, and moderate reaction for estrogen receptors. Uterine cells in cystic endometrial hyperplasia expressed a strong reaction for estrogen receptors, and moderate reaction for progesterone receptors, but on the other hand the uterine cells in the uterus with pyometra expressed a moderate to strong reaction for progesterone receptors, and a weak reaction for estrogen receptors. In further investigations it would be interesting to perform quantitative analysis for both estrogen and progesterone receptors during different phases of the estrus cycle and also in the uterus with cystic endometrial hyperplasia and pyometra.

Objective- This study refers to the role of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of mammary gland tumor in bitches as a complementary diagnostic method and its ultimate goal is to evaluate the results of mammography with the positive results of ultrasonography.Design- Prospective study.Animals- 12 German Shepherd bitches with swollen mass in the mammary gland region (group I) and 12 healthy German shepherd bitches without any swollen mass (group II-healthy group).Procedures- these bitches were evaluated by ultrasonography and assessment of axillary lymph nodes was performed simultaneously. Also, mammography was performed in these dogs and the results were reported by another radiologist. Finally, all suspected cases were referred for biopsy or surgery, and definite results were announced by the pathologist. In addition to, tumor markers such as carcino emberionic antigen (CEA) and cancer antigen 15.3 (CA 15.3) were detected in all samples (group I and group II).Results- Based on the results of the 12 cases of suspicious masses evaluated by ultrasonography, 9 cases of tumors (definitive diagnosis with pathological tests) and 3 cases of abscess were reported in the cases of group I. Moreover, tumor markers remarkably increased in the all sera samples of group I compared group II. The average diameter of the mass was 13 mm and the mean diameter of the lymph nodes was 5 mm. In mammography findings due to presence of dense mammary tissue, 18.3% of the cases had negative or only one asymmetric density and the remaining cases (81.7%) were positive. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance- Based on the results of this study, ultrasonography in diagnosis of mammary gland tumors especially in young bitches can be effective with high sensitivity.

Eleven Atlas Shepherd bitches of 4 years old, weighing between 15 and 16 kg who had an end stage of metestrus, have received treatment with bromocriptine, available in medicine human (Parlodel® 2.5 mg breakable tablet box of 30 tablets) orally to anticipate estrus. The dosage adapted for the bitches was 20 μg/kg body weight corresponding to 0.02 mg/kg twice daily. The return of heat was detected by clinical detection of vulvar losses and confirmed by the reading of vaginal smear and the ultrasound of the ovary to the canine clinical pathology of Veterinary Institute Ibn Khaldoun University of Tiaret between March 2016 and January 2017. All the bitches selected for this study were in good health and did not show any genital infection or pathology of their ovaries during their clinical examination. The aim of this study is to see if bromocriptine can be used to anticipate a return to heat outside its usual indication for the treatment of late anestrus in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Accurate identifying and assessment of the degree of pain that the animal is suffering can be a challenge, and, control of painful condition is becoming an increasingly important part of veterinary medicine. OBJECTIVES: This study was carried out to compare different tools for postoperative pain assessment in bitches. METHODS: Ten adult mixed breed bitches were selected and randomly divided into two equal treatment and control groups. Anaesthesia was premedicated with acepromazine (0.03 mg/kg, IM) and induced with Sodium thiopental (6-10 mg/kg, IV). Halothane was used for maintenance of the anesthesia. Ovariohysterectomy performed in the two groups. Treatment group received 3 mg/kg of tramadol intramuscularly (i.m.) and control group received normal saline (equal volume with tramadol, i.m.) before the anesthetic induction. After operation the injections of tramadol and normal saline were repeated for every 6 hours in 7 days. The animals were monitored at hour 2, 3 and 4 after each injection and they were scored for signs of pain by two trained assessors who were blinded to the groups. The measured variables were pain assessment with different methods including Simple Descriptive Scale (SDS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and University Melbourne Pain Scale (UMPS). Duration of anesthesia and duration of surgery, were also recorded. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the two groups in regard to analgesia that were measured based on VAS and SDS methods, but in UMPS method, analgesia was significantly better in treatment group. Among simple clinical criteria body temperature and respiratory rate did not show any significant alterations, but heart rate had significant changes between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: The ability to quantify the degree of pain experienced by animals is an important aspect in the assessment of animal welfare; in addition, we concluded, that the great challenge for the veterinarians is the evaluation of postoperative pain in dogs

The aim was to evaluate if medetomidine and dexmedetomidine affected arterial ovarian blood flow in dogs. The dogs were randomly assigned to two different groups. In Group 1, medetomidine (10 µg/kg) was administered intramuscularly and, in Group 2, dexmedetomidine (5 µg/kg) was used. After a preliminary exam, arterial blood pressure (BP) was measured and a duplex Doppler ultrasonographic examination of both ovarian arteries was performed. Twenty minutes after the administration of medetomidine or dexmedetomidine, BP and ovarian Doppler ultrasonography were repeated. High quality tracings of ovarian artery flow velocity were obtained in all dogs and Doppler parameters: Peak Systolic Velocity (PSV), End Diastolic Velocity (EDV) and Resistive Index (RI) were measured before and after drug administration in the left (LO) and right (RO) ovaries. PSV and EDV values decreased significantly after drug administration (p < 0.05) compared to the non-sedated values, but no differences were found between the LO and RO (p > 0.05). The RI was not affected by drugs administration in neither of the groups studied (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the administration of medetomidine or dexmedetomidine causes a decrease in blood flow velocity in the ovarian artery and may be a good choice to avoid excessive bleeding prior surgeries in which ovariectomy.

Based on the increase of food-related disturbances in animals and the recent findings concerning the toxicity of oxytetracycline (OTC) presence within pet food, we compared the effectiveness of two commercially available diets in 36 bitches suffering from reproductive disturbances. We ran a randomized clinical evaluation over a 90-day period. Bitches were randomly assigned to receive a control diet (CD) or a nutraceutical diet (ND) and were assessed for the presence of OTC in their sera before and at the end of the study. Sixteen of 18 bitches in the ND group went into heat within an average of 35.5 ± 3.1 days, and 15 of them became pregnant. In the CD group, 12 of 18 bitches went into heat within an average of 54.1 ± 3.2 days, and 10 of them became pregnant. A significant decrease in mean OTC serum concentration was observed in bitches belonging to the CD and ND group (P < 0.01). The overall amelioration, in particular in the ND group, provides new insights for future studies involving the modification of diet in order to restore the normal physiology of bitches suffering from reproductive disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Elective ovariossalpingohysterectomy is a common surgery that causes mild to moderate pain. Aiming at the treatment of pain in these patients, analgesia should be balanced from pre-anesthetic, transoperative and postoperative medication, with -2-agonists and opioids being commonly used, especially dexmedetomidine that has sedation, relaxation muscle and analgesia. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the postoperative analgesic efficacy of dexmedetomidine alone and associated with morphine when used in the preanesthetic medication of bitches submitted to elective ovarian oysterectomy using the modified Glasgow pain scale and the Melbourne pain scale. Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty bitches were used in this study, all of them submitted to ovarian oysterectomy, and were clinically healthy according to laboratory and clinical exams. During the experiment, bitches were randomly distributed into two groups, which received preanesthetic medication (MPA) with 5 µg/kg dexmedetomidine alone (GD) or associated with 0.3 mg/kg morphine (GDM) intramuscularly (IM). In both groups, anesthetic induction with dose-effect propofol was performed and maintained with isoflurane diluted in 100% oxygen administered through a calibrated vaporizer and appropriate anesthetic system based on the weight of the animal and maintained on spontaneous ventilation. After stabilization of the patient the surgery was started, which lasted 45 min. The bitches were evaluated by the Modified Glasgow Scale (GSM), the Melbourne Scale (MS) and the Dobbins Sedation Scale (DS), previously administered MPA (T0) and the others performed in 1h (T1), 2h (T2), 4h (T3), 8h (T4), 12h (T5) and 24h (T6) after extubation. If the GSM score was greater than the value of 3.3 an analgesic rescue of 0.5 mg/kg of morphine intramuscularly would be administered. An increase in the scoring of pain scales in both groups can be observed from the T1, with significant difference only of the T1 in relation to the T0 in the GSM of the GDM. Two rescues were performed in T1 of GD and three rescues in T1 and a rescue in T3 of GDM. There was no significant difference between the groups in relation to this variable, as a result of P = 0.62. Discussion: Based on the results of this study, dexmedetomidine does not have adequate analgesic effect for use in preemptive analgesia of bitches submitted to elective OSH due to the high number of analgesic rescues. A small increase in GSM and MS scores from T1 can be expected compared to values prior to the surgical procedure since there was no nociceptive stimulation. This increase was only significant in T1 of GDM, moment of greatest rescue number (n = 3). The absence of significant difference between the groups proves that the analgesic effect of dexmedetomidine was not potentiated by the association with morphine at the dose and route used in this experiment. Although morphine is widely used and proven to be effective for the surgical procedure of ovariossalpingohysterectomy, both when used alone and in combination with other drugs, this fact has not been proven in the present study. This fact may have occurred due to the low dose of dexmedetomidine used or due to its short duration. Therefore, dexmedetomidine at the dose used as preanesthetic medication did not produce an adequate analgesic effect in the postoperative period of bitches submitted to elective ovariossalpingohysterectomy. The effects of the same were not potentiated by the association with morphine, at the dose used. Not being recommended for postoperative analgesic control of elective ovariossalpingohysterectomy in bitches. However, further studies are needed to better evaluate the analgesic effect of this -2-agonist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine overpopulation continues to be a problem with serious public health implications, despite a diversity of programs and strategies that have been implemented for its control. Coumestrol (COU) is an organic compound with estrogenic activity, thus having the potential to alter reproduction in mammals. COU is commonly dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) before administration; however, evidence indicates that DMSO is not inert. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of either a single oral administration of COU diluted in DMSO or of DMSO-alone, on serum progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2), on vaginal cell pattern, and on anestrus and diestrus lengths in bitches. Fifteen anestrus female dogs received either a single commercial dog food biscuit (Control, n=5), a biscuit with 600 µg of COU/kg diluted in 20 µL of DMSO (COU, n=5), or a biscuit with 20 µL of DMSO (DMSO, n=5). Circulating P4, E2, and changes in vaginal cytology, were assessed within the first month after treatment administration. Hormone levels were also measured from months 2-6 post-treatment. Mean differences were analyzed by the GLM procedure for repeated measures. COU enhanced serum E2 levels, and DMSO increased serum P4, number of vaginal anucleated superficial cells, and diestrus length. All dogs were deemed healthy based on all periodical clinical exams, but abnormal mammary gland growth and/or galactorrhea were observed in two COU and one DMSO-treated bitches. The findings of the present study expose the need to reevaluate previous reports of use of COU in bitches, and perhaps in other mammals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of this study was to evaluate the parameters of intraoperative and postoperative pain in bitches undergoing laparoscopic or conventional ovariectomy. The study was conducted on 20 healthy, adult bitches of medium and large breeds. All the bitches were subjected to the same anesthetic protocol. Carprofen was applied preoperatively, and general anaesthesia was carried out with a combination of medetomidine, propofol and sevoflurane. The bitches were divided into two groups of 10 individuals each. The first group underwent conventional ovariectomy while the second one was subjected to the laparoscopic procedure. The intensity of intraoperative pain was estimated at different time points by measuring changes in heart and respiratory rate, arterial blood pressure, and body temperature. A multifactor pain scale was used to assess the intensity of postoperative pain. Dogs in the group which was scheduled for conventional ovariectomy (COV group) responded to painful intra-operative stimuli with increased heart rate and respiratory rate. Arterial blood pressure and body temperature decrease was detected in COV group. Laparoscopic ovariectomy induced less intra- and postoperative pain when compared to conventional ovariectomy. Beside that, the total anaesthesia time and postoperative recovery were shorter in dogs that underwent laparascopic ovariectomy.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of epidermal growth factor (EGF) on in vitro maturation of canine oocytes at different times of the process. Ovaries were collected from 55 bitches considered healthy and aseptically isolated, immersed in physiological solution (0.9% NaCl) and transported under refrigeration. Grade 1 cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were selected and divided into two groups: control group (CG) and treatment group (TG). In CG 698 grade I COCs were placed in 4-well plates containing TCM-199 medium supplemented with 25 mM HEPES, 100 IU/mL penicillin, 100 mg/mL streptomycin, 26 mM sodium bicarbonate, 1.5 mM sodium pyruvate, 2.9 mM sodium lactate pentahydrate, 0.6 mM cysteine, 0.03 IU/mL hCG, 0.5 μg/mL FSH, 20 μg/mL estrogen at 38.5ºC in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2 in times of 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h. In TG 547 COCs received the same maturation medium plus 10 ηg/mL EGF. Logistic regression models (SAS, 2011) were constructed in order to estimate the chances of oocytes being observed at nuclear maturation stages in different culture times (24 h, 48 h, and 72 h). Based on the results found EGF-supplemented medium showed 2.56 times more chances of having an oocyte at metaphase I (M-I) than medium without EGF (p < 0.0001). The results of this study demonstrated that the time of 72 h showed 5.88 times more chances of having an oocyte at metaphase II (M-II) compared to time of 24 h (p = 0.0001) and 7.69 times more chance than time of 48 h (p = 0.0001). The chances of finding an oocyte at M-II were also 9.09 times higher in medium supplemented with EGF than in medium without EGF (p = 0.0001). Thus, these results demonstrated the essential importance of EGF at different moments of oocyte maturation, being a key component for the acquisition of meiotic competence in bitches, increasing the M-I and M-II rates.

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Copyright of Pesquisa Veterinaria Brasileira is the property of Colegio Brasileiro de Patologia Animal - CBPA 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.)