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Bisetto SP, Justo AA, Bressan TF, Leal WP, Carregaro AB. Daily and seasonal features in the hind limb withdrawal latency of tegus (Salvator merianae) and green iguanas (Iguana iguana). J Therm Biol 2025; 129:104099. [PMID: 40194325 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2025.104099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2024] [Revised: 02/17/2025] [Accepted: 03/17/2025] [Indexed: 04/09/2025]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of daytime and season on the limb withdrawal latency time (LWLT) of lizards. Captive-raised, juvenile tegus and green iguanas (n = 6 each) were housed indoors, where a temperature gradient (27-40 °C) and a constant photoperiod (12-h cycle) were provided. Body temperatures and LWLT were measured at 00:00 h, 06:00 h, 12:00 h and 18:00 h over winter, spring, summer and fall. Both lizards had body temperatures lower than 30 °C at 00:00 h/06:00 h and higher than 30 °C at 12:00 h/18:00 h. In spring, tegus had higher body temperatures than in fall at 12:00 h (34.2 ± 1.4 °C versus 30.3 ± 1.9 °C) and in winter at 18:00 h (33.6 ± 1.2 °C versus 30.4 ± 1.0 °C); iguanas presented increased body temperatures at 00:00 h in summer (28.1 °C [28.0-28.2]) compared to winter (25.5 °C [25.3-25.7]). The LWLT of tegus was elevated at 06:00 h compared to 12:00 h and 18:00 h in winter (12.0 ± 3.8 s versus 7.6 ± 1.8 s and 7.0 ± 3.2 s, respectively), spring (12.0 ± 2.7 s versus 7.4 ± 3.1 s and 7.7 ± 1.3 s, respectively) and fall (14.8 ± 2.3 s versus 10.2 ± 1.2 s and 8.9 ± 1.9 s, respectively). Iguanas showed season-related fluctuations in LWLT, with higher values at 18:00 h in winter (15.5 ± 6.1 s) and fall (14.8 ± 2.6 s) than in summer (9.2 ± 1.9 s), as well as higher at 00:00 h (16.6 ± 5.4 s) and 12:00 h (15.4 ± 3.9 s) in spring than in summer (11.0 ± 2.9 s and 9.3 ± 1.3 s, respectively). Body temperature was poorly correlated with LWLT in tegus (rs = - 0.292; p = 0.003) and iguanas (rs = - 0.143; p = 0.162). Researchers should consider circadian and circannual rhythms as potential biases in antinociception-focused lizard studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayne Pedrozo Bisetto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Augusto Justo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thais Feres Bressan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Willian Petroni Leal
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriano Bonfim Carregaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Flint M, Sagrera K, Wainwright K, Flint JB. Field Based Assessment of Clinical Signs of Irreversible Loss of Consciousness and Death Confirmed by Brain Destruction in Juvenile American Alligators ( Alligator mississippiensis) After Penetrating Captive Bolt Stunning or Electrostunning with Probe Pithing. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2025; 28:197-208. [PMID: 37534828 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2023.2236550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
To determine the humane use of slaughter methods we examined the clinical signs of life in 61 American alligators harvested on-farm using one of three methods: (i) captive bolt and spinal cord severance; (ii) electrostunning, spinal cord severance and pithing; and (iii) spinal cord severance and pithing. Loss of consciousness and the six clinical signs of life that can be used on-farm were assessed for evidence of irreversible unconsciousness and death at Time 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 30 min post slaughter. The brains of alligators from each slaughter method were removed to assess brain tissue disruption. A combination of loss of blink reflex, pupillary light response, jaw tone and respiration are a reliable on-farm tool for determining death. Heartbeat and withdrawal reflex persisted. Captive bolt and electrostunning methods were effective in immediately producing loss of response consistent with irreversible unconsciousness, subsequent death and destruction of neural tissue integrity in the mid and hind brain. They are therefore humane forms of slaughter in American alligators.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Flint
- One Welfare and Sustainability Center, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - K Sagrera
- One Welfare and Sustainability Center, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Vermilion Gator Farm, Vermilion Parish, LA, United States
| | - K Wainwright
- Cypress Creek Farms, Bradford County, FL, United States
| | - J B Flint
- One Welfare and Sustainability Center, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Hervas LS, do Amaral-Silva L, Sartori MR, Guadalupe-Silva A, Gargaglioni LH, Lerchner J, Oliveira MT, Bícego KC. Mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle contributes to reproductive endothermy in tegu lizards (Salvator merianae). Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024; 240:e14162. [PMID: 38741523 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
AIM In cyclic climate variations, including seasonal changes, many animals regulate their energy demands to overcome critical transitory moments, restricting their high-demand activities to phases of resource abundance, enabling rapid growth and reproduction. Tegu lizards (Salvator merianae) are ectotherms with a robust annual cycle, being active during summer, hibernating during winter, and presenting a remarkable endothermy during reproduction in spring. Here, we evaluated whether changes in mitochondrial respiratory physiology in skeletal muscle could serve as a mechanism for the increased thermogenesis observed during the tegu's reproductive endothermy. METHODS We performed high-resolution respirometry and calorimetry in permeabilized red and white muscle fibers, sampled during summer (activity) and spring (high activity and reproduction), in association with citrate synthase measurements. RESULTS During spring, the muscle fibers exhibited increased oxidative phosphorylation. They also enhanced uncoupled respiration and heat production via adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT), but not via uncoupling proteins (UCP). Citrate synthase activity was higher during the spring, suggesting greater mitochondrial density compared to the summer. These findings were consistent across both sexes and muscle types (red and white). CONCLUSION The current results highlight potential cellular thermogenic mechanisms in an ectothermic reptile that contribute to transient endothermy. Our study indicates that the unique feature of transitioning to endothermy through nonshivering thermogenesis during the reproductive phase may be facilitated by higher mitochondrial density, function, and uncoupling within the skeletal muscle. This knowledge contributes significant elements to the broader picture of models for the evolution of endothermy, particularly in relation to the enhancement of aerobic capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Saccani Hervas
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Lara do Amaral-Silva
- Department of Biology, Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Marina Rincon Sartori
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Ane Guadalupe-Silva
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Luciane H Gargaglioni
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Johannes Lerchner
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, TU Bergakademie Freiberg, Freiberg, Germany
| | | | - Kênia Cardoso Bícego
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Brazil
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Yuschenkoff D, Cole GA, D'Agostino J, Lock B, Cox S, Sladky KK. PHARMACOKINETICS OF TRAMADOL AND O-DESMETHYLTRAMADOL IN GIANT TORTOISES ( CHELONOIDIS VANDENBURGHI, CHELONOIDIS VICINA). J Zoo Wildl Med 2024; 55:86-91. [PMID: 38453491 DOI: 10.1638/2023-0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetics of two orally administered doses of tramadol (1 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg) and its metabolite, O-desmethyltramadol (M1) in giant tortoises (Chelonoidis vandenburghi, Chelonoidis vicina). Eleven giant tortoises (C. vandenburghi, C. vicina) received two randomly assigned, oral doses of tramadol (either 1 mg/kg or 5 mg/kg), with a washout period of 3 wk between each dose. The half-life (t½) of orally administered tramadol at 1 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg was 11.9 ± 4.6 h and 13.2 ± 6.1 h, respectively. After oral administration of tramadol at 1 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg, the maximum concentration (Cmax) was 125 ± 69 ng/ml and 518 ± 411 ng/ml, respectively. There were not enough data points to determine pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters for the M1 metabolite from either dose. Tramadol administered orally to giant tortoises at both doses provided measurable plasma concentrations of tramadol for approximately 48 h with occasional transient sedation. Oral tramadol at 5 mg/kg, on average, achieves concentrations of >100 ng/ml, the reported human therapeutic threshold, for 24 h. Based on the low levels of M1 seen in this study, M1 may not be a major metabolite in this taxon.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Brad Lock
- Oklahoma City Zoo, Oklahoma City, OK 73111, USA
| | - Sherry Cox
- The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Kurt K Sladky
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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Gantner L, Portier K, Quintard B. Comparison of intramuscular alfaxalone with medetomidine-ketamine for inducing anaesthesia in Trachemys scripta spp. undergoing sterilization. Vet Anaesth Analg 2023; 50:421-429. [PMID: 37507249 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaa.2023.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the effect of two anaesthetic protocols on heart rate (HR), time to muscle relaxation and tracheal intubation and time to surgical plane of anaesthesia, in Trachemys scripta spp. undergoing oophorectomy. STUDY DESIGN Prospective randomized clinical study. ANIMALS A total of 43 healthy female turtles. METHODS Morphine (1.5 mg kg-1) was injected subcutaneously 2 hours before anaesthesia induction. The turtles were randomly administered either medetomidine (0.2 mg kg-1) and ketamine (10 mg kg-1) (group MK; n = 23) or alfaxalone (20 mg kg-1) (group A; n = 20) intramuscularly followed by bupivacaine (2 mg kg-1) administered subcutaneously along the incision site. Anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane delivered in oxygen (100%). HR and the anaesthetic depth score (ADS) were recorded every 5 minutes from induction to recovery. A Friedman test followed by Wilcoxon tests with Bonferroni adjustment were used to compare these non-parametric data (HR and ADS) between groups and over time. Time to muscle relaxation of neck and limbs (TMR), tracheal tube insertion (TTTI) and stage of surgical anaesthesia (TADS≤3) were recorded and compared between groups using a Welch's t test after logarithmic transformation. RESULTS Median values of TMR, TTTI and TADS≤3 were 4, 9.5 and 25 minutes in group A, respectively, and 14, 20 and 35 minutes in group MK (TMR, TTTIp ≤ 0.0001; TADS≤3p = 0.001). Plane of anaesthesia was significantly deeper in group A than in group MK for the first 20 minutes (p < 0.01). HR at 10 and 15 minutes post injection was significantly lower in group MK (28 beats minute-1) than in group A (36 and 34 beats minute-1) (p < 0.02). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE After intramuscular injection in Trachemys scripta spp., tracheal intubation, muscle relaxation and a surgical plane of anaesthesia developed faster with alfaxalone than medetomidine-ketamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurène Gantner
- VetAgro Sup, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; Parc Zoologique & Botanique de Mulhouse, Mulhouse, France; Espace Zoologique, Saint Martin la Plaine, France.
| | - Karine Portier
- VetAgro Sup, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; CarMeN Laboratory, INSERM, INRA, INSA Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Univ Lyon, Lyon, France
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Makau CM, Towett PK, Kanui TI, Abelson KSP. Antinociceptive effects of nortriptyline and desipramine hydrochloride in Speke's hinge-back tortoise (Kinixys Spekii). Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2023; 37:567-576. [PMID: 36617732 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Some of the most commonly used analgesic drugs in animals are of questionable efficacy or present adverse side effects among the various species of reptiles. Tricyclic antidepressants have been demonstrated to have antinociceptive effects in several animal models of pain and could be a good alternative for use in reptiles. The aim of the study was to investigate the antinociceptive effects of nortriptyline and desipramine hydrochloride in Speke's hinge-back tortoise. A total of 24 animals weighing 600-1000 g were used for nociceptive tests, i.e., formalin, capsaicin, and hot plate tests. Drugs were administered intracoelomically 30 min before starting the tests. The time spent in nocifensive behavior and the associated observable effects during the tests were recorded. Only the highest dose of 40 mg/kg of nortriptyline hydrochloride caused statistically significant decrease in nocifensive behavior in both the formalin and the capsaicin test. Desipramine hydrochloride at doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg caused statistically significant decrease in nocifensive behavior in the formalin test. Also, desipramine hydrochloride at doses of 15, 20, and 60 mg/kg caused statistically significant decrease in nocifensive behavior in the capsaicin test. None of the doses used for both drugs had any statistically significant effect on nocifensive behavior in the hot plate test. The results show that nortriptyline and desipramine hydrochloride have significant antinociceptive effects in the chemical but not thermal inflammatory pain-related behavior in the Speke's hinge-back tortoise. The most common associated side effect following administration of the higher doses of either of the drugs is excessive salivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Makau
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark.,Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Philemon K Towett
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Titus I Kanui
- School of Agriculture and Veterinary sciences, South Eastern Kenya University, Kitui, Kenya
| | - Klas S P Abelson
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N, Denmark
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Pain and Pain Management in Sea Turtle and Herpetological Medicine: State of the Art. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12060697. [PMID: 35327093 PMCID: PMC8944618 DOI: 10.3390/ani12060697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Rescue and rehabilitative medicine of sea turtles must deal with several circumstances that would be certainly considered painful in other species (trauma, situations that require surgery); thus, it would be natural to consider the use of analgesic drugs to manage the pain and avoid its deleterious systemic effects to guarantee a rapid recovery and release. However, in these animals (as well as in reptiles in general), many obstacles stand in the way of the application of safe and effective therapeutic protocols. It has been demonstrated that, anatomically and physiologically, turtles and reptiles in general must be considered able to experience pain in its definition of an “unpleasant sensory and emotional experience”. Unfortunately, specific studies concerning sea turtles and reptiles on pain assessment, safety, and clinical efficacy of analgesic drugs currently in use (mostly opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs—NSAIDs) are scarce and fragmentary and suffer from some basic gaps or methodological bias that prevent a correct interpretation of the results. At present, the general understanding of the physiology of reptiles’ pain and the possibility of its reasonable treatment is still in its infancy, considering the enormous amount of information still needed, and the use of analgesic drugs is still anecdotal or dangerously inferred from other species. Abstract In sea turtle rescue and rehabilitative medicine, many of the casualties suffer from occurrences that would be considered painful in other species; therefore, the use of analgesic drugs should be ethically mandatory to manage the pain and avoid its deleterious systemic effects to guarantee a rapid recovery and release. Nonetheless, pain assessment and management are particularly challenging in reptilians and chelonians. The available scientific literature demonstrates that, anatomically, biochemically, and physiologically, the central nervous system of reptiles and chelonians is to be considered functionally comparable to that of mammals albeit less sophisticated; therefore, reptiles can experience not only nociception but also “pain” in its definition of an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience. Hence, despite the necessity of appropriate pain management plans, the available literature on pain assessment and clinical efficacy of analgesic drugs currently in use (prevalently opioids and NSAIDs) is fragmented and suffers from some basic gaps or methodological bias that prevent a correct interpretation of the results. At present, the general understanding of the physiology of reptiles’ pain and the possibility of its reasonable treatment is still in its infancy, considering the enormous amount of information still needed, and the use of analgesic drugs is still anecdotal or dangerously inferred from other species.
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Abstract
Snakes can be more challenging to anesthetize compared with other animals because of anatomic and physiologic differences, a wide range of patient sizes, and variable responses to anesthetic agents. Snakes have preferred optimal temperature zones, which, along with physiologic characteristics, such as the ability to shunt blood toward or away from the lungs, can have an impact on anesthesia. Injectable agents, including benzodiazepines, α2-agonists, opioids, propofol, and alfaxalone, as well as inhalant anesthetics can be used to anesthetize snakes. Pain management must be incorporated to the anesthetic plan when performing procedures that are expected to produce nociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Almeida
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, 1352 Boyd Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA.
| | - Martin Kennedy
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, 1352 Boyd Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Erin Wend-Hornickle
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, 1352 Boyd Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
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Circulating miRNome of Trachemys scripta after elective gonadectomy under general anesthesia. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14712. [PMID: 34282201 PMCID: PMC8289937 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94113-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-surgical management is an important issue in veterinary medicine, requiring biomarkers with high sensitivity and specificity for timely and effective treatment. Emerging evidence suggests that miRNAs are promising stress- and pain-related markers. The aims were to profile the circulating miRNA signature in plasma of turtles (Trachemysscripta) and point out potential candidate biomarkers to assess the status of the animal. The plasma of female turtles underwent surgical gonadectomy were collected 24 h pre-surgery, and 2.5 h and 36 h post-surgery. The expression of miRNAs was profiled by Next Generation Sequencing and the dysregulated miRNAs were validated using RT-qPCR. The diagnostic value of miRNAs was calculated by ROC curves. The results showed that 14 miRNAs were differentially expressed over time. RT-qPCR validation highlighted that 2-miR-499-3p and miR-203-5p-out of 8 miRNAs tested were effectively modulated. The Area Under the Curve (AUC) of miR-203-5p was fair (AUC 0.7934) in discriminating pre- and 36 h post-surgery samples and poor for other time points; the AUC of miR-499-3p was excellent (AUC 0.944) in discriminating pre-surgery and 2.5 h post-surgery samples, and fair in discriminating pre-surgery and 36 h post-surgery (AUC 0.7292) and 2.5 h and 36 h post-surgery (AUC 0.7569) samples. In conclusion, we demonstrated for the first time that miRNAs profile changes in plasma of turtles underwent surgical oophorectomy and identified miR-203-5p and miR-499-3p as potential candidate biomarkers to assess animals' status. Further studies are necessary to confirm their diagnostic value and to investigate functional and mechanistic networks to improve our understanding of the biological processes.
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Mones AB, Gorges MA, Santangelo SM, Lewbart GA, Harrison TM, Gerard MP. Feasibility of a blind perineural injection technique for brachial plexus blockade in eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina): a cadaver study. Vet Anaesth Analg 2021; 48:789-797. [PMID: 34246559 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaa.2021.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the anatomy of the brachial plexus in eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina), develop a blind perineural injection technique for brachial plexus blockade and evaluate the distribution of three volumes of new methylene blue dye for injection in cadavers. STUDY DESIGN Prospective, randomized, blinded cadaveric study. ANIMALS A total of 24 frozen-thawed box turtle cadavers; two turtles identified with shoulder injuries were subsequently excluded from the study. The remaining 22 turtles weighed 397 (190-581) g, median (range). METHODS The brachial plexus and regional anatomy were identified by dissection of seven cadavers to determine anatomic landmarks for a perineural injection technique. This technique was tested by randomizing 15 cadavers into one of three groups to be injected bilaterally with one of three volumes (0.1, 0.2 or 0.3 mL) of methylene blue dye 1% aqueous solution. Investigators blinded to the assigned group dissected cadavers 15 minutes after injection and used staining of the four cervical spinal nerves (C5-C8; 25% for each nerve) to record a staining score of the brachial plexus (0-100%). RESULTS Based on descriptions of the anatomy of the brachial plexus, an injection technique was designed. Injections of 0.1 mL methylene blue dye resulted in nine/10 injections with 100% nerve stained, and one/10 injection with 50% (two) nerves stained. All injections of 0.2 or 0.3 mL of methylene blue dye resulted in 100% nerves stained. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Perineural injection of the brachial plexus with 0.1, 0.2 or 0.3 mL methylene blue dye was successful in 29/30 injections in box turtle cadavers weighing 190-581 g. Further studies are needed to determine the minimum volume of injectate that can be successfully used for this technique, and to evaluate its application and efficacy in live turtles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alissa B Mones
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Melinda A Gorges
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Stephen M Santangelo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Gregory A Lewbart
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Tara M Harrison
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Mathew P Gerard
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
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Abstract
Reptile behavior varies widely among the approximately 11,000 species of this class. The authors' objective is to allow practitioners to discriminate between normal and abnormal behaviors in reptiles. Some of the most common reasons for presentation of behavioral issues are discussed, including hyperactivity, self-mutilation, biting, repetitive behaviors, and postural abnormalities. Medical problems and suboptimal husbandry causing abnormal behaviors should be ruled out by attending veterinarians. Addressing behavior issues involves determining a differential diagnosis through a systematic approach, which then allows implementation of necessary environmental changes including enrichment, developing plans for behavior modification and biomedical training, and medication when appropriate.
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12
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Karklus AA, Sladky KK, Johnson SM. Respiratory and antinociceptive effects of dexmedetomidine and doxapram in ball pythons ( Python regius). Am J Vet Res 2020; 82:11-21. [PMID: 33369496 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.82.1.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effects of dexmedetomidine, doxapram, and dexmedetomidine plus doxapram on ventilation ([Formula: see text]e), breath frequency, and tidal volume (Vt) in ball pythons (Python regius) and of doxapram on the thermal antinociceptive efficacy of dexmedetomidine. ANIMALS 14 ball pythons. PROCEDURES Respiratory effects of dexmedetomidine and doxapram were assessed with whole-body, closed-chamber plethysmography, which allowed for estimates of [Formula: see text]e and Vt. In the first experiment of this study with a complete crossover design, snakes were injected, SC, with saline (0.9% NaCl) solution, dexmedetomidine (0.1 mg/kg), doxapram (10 mg/kg), or dexmedetomidine and doxapram, and breath frequency, [Formula: see text]e, and Vt were measured before and every 30 minutes thereafter, through 240 minutes. In the second experiment, antinociceptive efficacy of saline solution, dexmedetomidine, and dexmedetomidine plus doxapram was assessed by measuring thermal withdrawal latencies before and 60 minutes after SC injection. RESULTS Dexmedetomidine significantly decreased breath frequency and increased Vt but did not affect [Formula: see text]e at all time points, compared with baseline. Doxapram significantly increased [Formula: see text]e, breath frequency, and Vt at 60 minutes after injection, compared with saline solution. The combination of dexmedetomidine and doxapram, compared with dexmedetomidine alone, significantly increased [Formula: see text]e at 30 and 60 minutes after injection and did not affect breath frequency and Vt at all time points. Thermal withdrawal latencies significantly increased when snakes received dexmedetomidine or dexmedetomidine plus doxapram, versus saline solution. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Concurrent administration of doxapram may mitigate the dexmedetomidine-induced reduction of breathing frequency without disrupting thermal antinociceptive efficacy in ball pythons.
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Fonseca EM, Vicente MC, Fournier S, Kinkead R, Bícego KC, Gargaglioni LH. Influence of light/dark cycle and orexins on breathing control in green iguanas (Iguana iguana). Sci Rep 2020; 10:22105. [PMID: 33328521 PMCID: PMC7744544 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79107-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Light/dark cycle affects the physiology of vertebrates and hypothalamic orexin neurons (ORX) are involved in this function. The breathing pattern of the green iguana changes from continuous to episodic across the light/dark phases. Since the stimulatory actions of ORX on breathing are most important during arousal, we hypothesized that ORX regulates changes of breathing pattern in iguanas. Thus, we: (1) Localized ORX neurons with immunohistochemistry; (2) Quantified cyclic changes in plasma orexin-A levels by ELISA; (3) Compared breathing pattern at rest and during hypoxia and hypercarbia; (4) Evaluated the participation of the ORX receptors in ventilation with intracerebroventricular microinjections of ORX antagonists during light and dark phases. We show that the ORX neurons of I. iguana are located in the periventricular hypothalamic nucleus. Orexin-A peaks during the light/active phase and breathing parallels these cyclic changes: ventilation is higher during the light phase than during the dark phase. However, inactivation of ORX-receptors does not affect the breathing pattern. Iguanas increase ventilation during hypoxia only during the light phase. Conversely, CO2 promotes post-hypercarbic hyperpnea during both phases. We conclude that ORXs potentiate the post-hypercarbic (but not the hypoxic)-drive to breathe and are not involved in light/dark changes in the breathing pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa M Fonseca
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, College of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Unesp, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP, CEP 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Mariane C Vicente
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, College of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Unesp, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP, CEP 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Stephanie Fournier
- Department of Pediatrics, Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Richard Kinkead
- Department of Pediatrics, Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Kênia C Bícego
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, College of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Unesp, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP, CEP 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Luciane H Gargaglioni
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, College of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Unesp, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP, CEP 14884-900, Brazil.
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Bianchi C, Adami C, Dirrig H, Cuff A, d'Ovidio D, Monticelli P. Mandibular nerve block in juvenile Nile crocodile: a cadaveric study. Vet Anaesth Analg 2020; 47:835-842. [PMID: 33046377 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaa.2020.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a technique for performing the mandibular nerve block in Nile crocodiles. STUDY DESIGN Experimental cadaveric study. ANIMALS A total of 16 juvenile Nile crocodile heads. METHODS To study the course of the mandibular nerve, one head was dissected. Computed tomography (CT) examination was performed in two heads to identify useful landmarks. Thereafter, a hypodermic needle was inserted through the external mandibular fenestra of 17 hemimandibles (13 heads), and a mixture of methylene blue and iohexol was injected. Injection volumes were 0.5 (n = 7) and 1.0 mL (n = 10) for hemimandibles < 15 and ≥ 15 cm long, respectively. Iohexol spread and nerve staining with methylene blue were assessed with CT and anatomical dissection, respectively. Data were analysed with one-sample t test or Mann-Whitney U test. Significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS Both anatomical dissection and imaging confirmed the external mandibular fenestra as a useful anatomical landmark for needle insertion. The CT images acquired after needle positioning confirmed that its tip was located on the medial bony mandibular surface formed by the fusion of the angular and coronoid bones in 100% cases. In all the hemimandibles, the rostrocaudal spread of contrast was > 23 mm. The length of the stained mandibular nerve in the temporal region and of the stained medial branch of the mandibular nerve, as well as the dorsoventral and mediolateral spread of iohexol, was greater in group 1.0 than in group 0.5 (p < 0.001). The caudal spread of iohexol was greater in group 1.0 than in group 0.5 (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The technique developed in this study is feasible. Both injection volumes resulted in staining of the mandibular nerve. The spread of contrast in the anatomical region of interest may result in successful sensory block.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Bianchi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - Chiara Adami
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - Helen Dirrig
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK
| | - Andrew Cuff
- Hull York Medical School, University of York, Heslington, York, UK
| | - Dario d'Ovidio
- Private Practitioner, Naples, Italy; Clinica Veterinaria Malpensa, Samarate(VA), Italy
| | - Paolo Monticelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK.
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Zena LA, Dillon D, Hunt KE, Navas CA, Buck CL, Bícego KC. Hormonal correlates of the annual cycle of activity and body temperature in the South-American tegu lizard (Salvator merianae). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 285:113295. [PMID: 31580883 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2019.113295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Life history transitions and hormones are known to interact and influence many aspects of animal physiology and behavior. The South-American tegu lizard (Salvator merianae) exhibits a profound seasonal shift in metabolism and body temperature, characterized by high daily activity during warmer months, including reproductive endothermy in spring, and metabolic suppression during hibernation in winter. This makes S. merianae an interesting subject for studies of interrelationships between endocrinology and seasonal changes in physiology/behavior. We investigated how plasma concentrations of hormones involved in regulation of energy metabolism (thyroid hormones T4 and T3; corticosterone) and reproduction (testosterone in males and estrogen/progesterone in females) correlate with activity and body temperature (Tb) across the annual cycle of captive held S. merianae in semi-natural conditions. In our initial model, thyroid hormones and corticosterone showed a positive relationship with activity and Tb with independent of sex: T3 positively correlated with activity and Tb, while T4 and corticosterone correlated positively with changes in Tb only. This suggests that thyroid hormones and glucocorticoids may be involved in metabolic transitions of annual cycle events. When accounting for sex-steroid hormones, our sex separated models showed a positive relationship between testosterone and Tb in males and progesterone and activity in females. Coupling seasonal endocrine measures with activity and Tb may expand our understanding of the relationship between animal's physiology and its environment. Manipulative experiments are required in order to unveil the directionality of influences existing among abiotic factors and the hormonal signaling of annual cyclicity in physiology/behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas A Zena
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-090 São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA.
| | - Danielle Dillon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Kathleen E Hunt
- Department of Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Carlos A Navas
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, 05508-090 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - C Loren Buck
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Kênia C Bícego
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, College of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, 14884-900 Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil.
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16
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Corum O, Atik O, Durna Corum D, Er A, Uney K. Pharmacokinetics of tolfenamic acid in red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans). Vet Anaesth Analg 2019; 46:699-706. [PMID: 31395485 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaa.2019.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the pharmacokinetics of tolfenamic acid (TA) after different routes of administration [intravenous (IV) and intramuscular (IM), 2 mg kg-1] and doses (IV, 2 and 4 mg kg-1) in red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans). STUDY DESIGN Randomized experimental trial. ANIMALS Sixteen healthy red-eared slider turtles. METHODS Turtles were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 8 each). Group 1 received TA at a dose of 2 mg kg-1 IV and then IM, after a washout period of 30 days. Group 2 received 4 mg kg-1 TA IV. A noncompartmental analysis was used to calculate pharmacokinetic variables. RESULTS No local and/or systemic adverse drug effects were observed in any turtle. Elimination half-life and mean residence time following IM administration at 2 mg kg-1 were significantly longer than those following IV administration. The bioavailability following IM administration was complete. The area under the plasma concentration-time curve, elimination half-life, mean residence time and total clearance were significantly different between the dose groups. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The absence of adverse reactions in the turtles of the study of TA along with the favourable pharmacokinetic properties (the long half-life and the complete bioavailability) of TA administered at the single doses of 2 and 4 mg kg-1 suggest the possibility of its effective use in turtles. However, further studies are required to establish a multiple dosage regimen of TA and to evaluate the clinical efficacy of administering TA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orhan Corum
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kastamonu, Kastamonu, Turkey
| | - Orkun Atik
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Afyonkocatepe, Afyon, Turkey
| | - Duygu Durna Corum
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kastamonu, Kastamonu, Turkey
| | - Ayse Er
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Selcuk, Konya, Turkey
| | - Kamil Uney
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Selcuk, Konya, Turkey.
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Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders are a common cause for presentation of reptiles and amphibians to the veterinarian. A clinical approach to orthopedic cases starts with a thorough history and review of husbandry, and identification of any underlying or concomitant disease. Medical management is indicated for pathologic fractures. Traumatic fractures may require surgical intervention. Stabilization options include external coaptation and/or external and internal fixation. Special considerations must be given to shell fractures in chelonians. Many techniques used in mammalian practice can be applied to reptiles and amphibians, although some species may require prolonged healing times by comparison.
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Bunke LG, Sladky KK, Johnson SM. Antinociceptive efficacy and respiratory effects of dexmedetomidine in ball pythons (Python regius). Am J Vet Res 2018; 79:718-726. [PMID: 29943640 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.79.7.718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine antinociceptive efficacy, behavioral patterns, and respiratory effects associated with dexmedetomidine administration in ball pythons (Python regius). ANIMALS 12 ball pythons. PROCEDURES Antinociception was assessed by applying an infrared heat stimulus to the cranioventral surface of snakes during 2 experiments. Thermal withdrawal latency was measured at 0, 2, and 24 hours after SC injections of dexmedetomidine (0.1 or 0.2 mg/kg) or saline (0.9% NaCl) solution and at 0 to 60 minutes after injection of dexmedetomidine (0.1 mg/kg) or saline solution. Behaviors were recorded at 0, 2, and 24 hours after administration of dexmedetomidine (0.1 mg/kg) or saline solution. Tongue flicking, head flinch to the approach of an observer's hand, movement, and righting reflex were scored. Respiratory frequency was measured by use of plethysmography to detect breathing-related movements after injection of dexmedetomidine (0.1 mg/kg) or saline solution. RESULTS Mean baseline withdrawal latency was 5 to 7 seconds; saline solution did not alter withdrawal latency. Dexmedetomidine increased withdrawal latency by 18 seconds (0.2 mg/kg) and 13 seconds (0.1 mg/kg) above baseline values at 2 hours. Increased withdrawal latency was detected within 15 minutes after dexmedetomidine administration. At 2 hours after injection, there were few differences in behavioral scores. Dexmedetomidine injection depressed respiratory frequency by 55% to 70%, compared with results for saline solution, but snakes continued to breathe without prolonged apnea. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Dexmedetomidine increased noxious thermal withdrawal latency without causing excessive sedation. Therefore, dexmedetomidine may be a useful analgesic drug in ball pythons and other snake species.
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Kharbush RJ, Gutwillig A, Hartzler KE, Kimyon RS, Gardner AN, Abbott AD, Cox SK, Watters JJ, Sladky KK, Johnson SM. Antinociceptive and respiratory effects following application of transdermal fentanyl patches and assessment of brain μ-opioid receptor mRNA expression in ball pythons. Am J Vet Res 2017. [PMID: 28650234 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.78.7.785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantify plasma fentanyl concentrations (PFCs) and evaluate antinociceptive and respiratory effects following application of transdermal fentanyl patches (TFPs) and assess cerebrospinal μ-opioid receptor mRNA expression in ball pythons (compared with findings in turtles). ANIMALS 44 ball pythons (Python regius) and 10 turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans). PROCEDURES To administer 3 or 12 μg of fentanyl/h, a quarter or whole TFP (TFP-3 and TFP-12, respectively) was used. At intervals after TFP-12 application in snakes, PFCs were measured by reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography. Infrared heat stimuli were applied to the rostroventral surface of snakes to determine thermal withdrawal latencies after treatments with no TFP (control [n = 16]) and TFP-3 (8) or TFP-12 (9). Breathing frequency was measured in unrestrained controls and TFP-12-treated snakes. μ-Opioid receptor mRNA expression in brain and spinal cord tissue samples from snakes and turtles (which are responsive to μ-opioid receptor agonist drugs) were quantified with a reverse transcription PCR assay. RESULTS Mean PFCs were 79, 238, and 111 ng/mL at 6, 24, and 48 hours after TFP-12 application, respectively. At 3 to 48 hours after TFP-3 or TFP-12 application, thermal withdrawal latencies did not differ from pretreatment values or control treatment findings. For TFP-12-treated snakes, mean breathing frequency significantly decreased from the pretreatment value by 23% and 41% at the 24- and 48-hour time points, respectively. Brain and spinal cord tissue μ-opioid receptor mRNA expressions in snakes and turtles did not differ. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE In ball pythons, TFP-12 application resulted in high PFCs, but there was no change in thermal antinociception, indicating resistance to μ-opioid-dependent antinociception in this species.
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20
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Leal WP, Carregaro AB, Bressan TF, Bisetto SP, Melo CF, Sladky KK. Antinociceptive efficacy of intramuscular administration of morphine sulfate and butorphanol tartrate in tegus (Salvator merianae). Am J Vet Res 2017; 78:1019-1024. [DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.78.9.1019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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21
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Lopez-Luna J, Al-Jubouri Q, Al-Nuaimy W, Sneddon LU. Impact of stress, fear and anxiety on the nociceptive responses of larval zebrafish. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181010. [PMID: 28767661 PMCID: PMC5540279 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Both adult and larval zebrafish have been demonstrated to show behavioural responses to noxious stimulation but also to potentially stress- and fear or anxiety- eliciting situations. The pain or nociceptive response can be altered and modulated by these situations in adult fish through a mechanism called stress-induced analgesia. However, this phenomenon has not been described in larval fish yet. Therefore, this study explores the behavioural changes in larval zebrafish after noxious stimulation and exposure to challenges that can trigger a stress, fear or anxiety reaction. Five-day post fertilization zebrafish were exposed to either a stressor (air emersion), a predatory fear cue (alarm substance) or an anxiogenic (caffeine) alone or prior to immersion in acetic acid 0.1%. Pre- and post-stimulation behaviour (swimming velocity and time spent active) was recorded using a novel tracking software in 25 fish at once. Results show that larvae reduced both velocity and activity after exposure to the air emersion and alarm substance challenges and that these changes were attenuated using etomidate and diazepam, respectively. Exposure to acetic acid decreased velocity and activity as well, whereas air emersion and alarm substance inhibited these responses, showing no differences between pre- and post-stimulation. Therefore, we hypothesize that an antinociceptive mechanism, activated by stress and/or fear, occur in 5dpf zebrafish, which could have prevented the larvae to display the characteristic responses to pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Lopez-Luna
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour, Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool. Liverpool, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Qussay Al-Jubouri
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Waleed Al-Nuaimy
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Lynne U. Sneddon
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour, Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool. Liverpool, United Kingdom
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22
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Radio Transmitter Implantation and Movement in the Wild Timber Rattlesnake ( Crotalus horridus ). J Wildl Dis 2017; 53:591-595. [PMID: 28192045 DOI: 10.7589/2016-08-186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Radiotelemetry transmitters have become critical to studies of wildlife ecology. However, little is known about how transmitter implantation surgery affects the mobility of some species, including the timber rattlesnake, Crotalus horridus . Tracking snake movement can provide insights into the effects of transmitter implantation. During 2007-11, 71 radio transmitters were surgically implanted intracoelomically in 47 timber rattlesnakes. Over 20 of these snakes underwent surgery at least twice in 5 yr to replace old transmitters. Surgeries were performed under general anesthesia with a local nerve block at the site of implantation, 20 cm cranial to the cloaca. Snakes were also administered postsurgical meloxicam and enrofloxacin every 24 h for three doses. Two to five days after surgery, snakes were released at their original locations and radiotracked regularly during the active seasons (April-October 2007-11). Average daily movement data (distance traveled) were compiled for each snake. Snakes undergoing transmitter surgery in a given year did not differ significantly in distance traveled compared to snakes that had transmitters but did not have surgery in that year. Distance traveled for each snake did not differ before or after surgery or between weeks 1 and 2 postsurgery, indicating that the transmitter implantation did not alter snake movement.
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23
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Finn HC, Stephens NS. The invisible harm: land clearing is an issue of animal welfare. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2017. [DOI: 10.1071/wr17018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Land clearing is a significant environmental issue in Australia and an area of active legislative reform. Despite evidence of the harm that land clearing causes to individual animals, such harm is either ignored or considered only indirectly in environmental decision-making. We argue that the harm that land clearing causes to animals ought to be identified and evaluated in decision-making relating to land clearing and consider the following three propositions in support: (1) land clearing causes deaths that are physically painful and psychologically distressing because of their traumatic and debilitating nature; (2) land clearing causes physical injuries, other pathological conditions, pain and psychological distress over a prolonged period as animals attempt to survive in the cleared environment or in the environments they are displaced to; and (3) on the basis of current clearing rates, more than 50million mammals, birds and reptiles are likely to be killed annually because of land clearing in Queensland and New South Wales. The scientific consensus about the harm caused by land clearing means that decisions to allow land clearing are decisions to allow most of the animals present to be killed and, as such, frameworks for decision-making ought to include proper evaluation of the harm to be imposed.
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Christman J, Devau M, Wilson-Robles H, Hoppes S, Rech R, Russell KE, Heatley JJ. Oncology of Reptiles: Diseases, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2017; 20:87-110. [PMID: 27890294 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2016.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Based on necropsy review, neoplasia in reptiles has a comparable frequency to that of mammals and birds. Reptile neoplasia is now more frequently diagnosed in clinical practice based on increased use of advanced diagnostic techniques and improvements in reptilian husbandry allowing greater longevity of these species. This article reviews the current literature on neoplasia in reptiles, and focuses on advanced diagnostics and therapeutic options for reptilian patientssuffering neoplastic disease. Although most applied clinical reptile oncology is translated from dog and cat oncology, considerations specific to reptilian patients commonly encountered in clinical practice (turtles, tortoises, snakes, and lizards) are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Christman
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 408 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, College Station, TX 77843-4474, USA
| | - Michael Devau
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 408 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, College Station, TX 77843-4474, USA
| | - Heather Wilson-Robles
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 408 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, College Station, TX 77843-4474, USA
| | - Sharman Hoppes
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 408 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, College Station, TX 77843-4474, USA
| | - Raquel Rech
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 400 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, College Station, TX 77843-4467, USA
| | - Karen E Russell
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 408 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, College Station, TX 77843-4474, USA
| | - J Jill Heatley
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 408 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, College Station, TX 77843-4474, USA.
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25
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Williams CJA, James LE, Bertelsen MF, Wang T. Tachycardia in response to remote capsaicin injection as a model for nociception in the ball python (Python regius). Vet Anaesth Analg 2016; 43:429-34. [DOI: 10.1111/vaa.12321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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26
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Uney K, Altan F, Aboubakr M, Cetin G, Dik B. Pharmacokinetics of meloxicam in red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) after single intravenous and intramuscular injections. Am J Vet Res 2016; 77:439-44. [DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.77.5.439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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27
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Abstract
This article summarizes the physiology and anatomy of reptiles, highlighting points relevant for emergency room veterinarians. Other systems, such as the endocrine and immune systems, have not been covered. The many other aspects of reptile species variation are too numerous to be covered. This article provides an overview but encourages clinicians to seek additional species-specific information to better medically diagnose and treat their reptile patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Y Long
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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28
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Zena LA, Dantonio V, Gargaglioni LH, Andrade DV, Abe AS, Bícego KC. Winter metabolic depression does not change arterial baroreflex control of heart rate in the tegu lizard (Salvator merianae). J Exp Biol 2016; 219:725-33. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.129130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Baroreflex regulation of blood pressure (BP) is important for maintaining appropriate tissue perfusion. Although temperature affects heart rate (fH) reflex regulation in some reptiles and toads, no data are available on the influence of temperature-independent metabolic states on baroreflex. The South American tegu lizard Salvator merianae exhibits a clear seasonal cycle of activity decreasing fH along with winter metabolic downregulation, independent of body temperature. Through pharmacological interventions (phenylephrine and sodium nitroprusside), the baroreflex control of fH was studied at ∼25°C in spring-summer and winter-acclimated tegus.
In winter lizards, resting and minimum fH were lower than in spring-summer animals (respectively, 13.3±0.82 vs 10.3±0.81 and 11.2±0.65 vs 7.97±0.88 beats.min−1), while no acclimation differences occurred in resting BP (5.14±0.38 vs 5.06±0.56 kPa), baroreflex gain (94.3±10.7 vs 138.7±30.3 %.kPa−1) and rate-pressure product (an index of myocardial activity). Vagal tone exceeded the sympathetic tone of fH especially in the winter group. Therefore, despite the lower fH, winter acclimation does not diminish the fH baroreflex responses nor rate-pressure product possibly because of increased stroke volume that may arise due to heart hypertrophy. Independent of acclimation, fH responded more to hypotension than to hypertension. This should imply that tegus, which have no pressure separation within the single heart ventricle, must have other protection mechanisms against pulmonary hypertension or oedema, presumably through lymphatic drainage and/or vagal vasoconstriction of pulmonary artery. Such a predominant fH reflex response to hypothension, previously observed in anurans, crocodilians and mammals, may be a common feature of tetrapods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas A. Zena
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, College of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology – Comparative Physiology (INCT- Fisiologia Comparada), Brazil
| | - Valter Dantonio
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, College of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology – Comparative Physiology (INCT- Fisiologia Comparada), Brazil
| | - Luciane H. Gargaglioni
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, College of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology – Comparative Physiology (INCT- Fisiologia Comparada), Brazil
| | - Denis V. Andrade
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University, Rio Claro, São Paulo, 13506-900, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology – Comparative Physiology (INCT- Fisiologia Comparada), Brazil
| | - Augusto S. Abe
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Bioscience, São Paulo State University, Rio Claro, São Paulo, 13506-900, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology – Comparative Physiology (INCT- Fisiologia Comparada), Brazil
| | - Kênia C. Bícego
- Department of Animal Morphology and Physiology, College of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology – Comparative Physiology (INCT- Fisiologia Comparada), Brazil
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Williams DL. Introduction–Welfare Issues Concerning Exotic Pet Medicine. J Exot Pet Med 2014. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2014.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Williams DL, Cert C. WITHDRAWN: Editorial - welfare Issues concerning exotic pet medicine. J Exot Pet Med 2014. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2014.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Abstract
Vesicular, ulcerative, and necrotic dermatologic conditions are common in captive reptiles. Although these conditions have distinct differences histologically, they are commonly sequelae to each other. This article examines the anatomy and physiology of reptile skin; discusses reported causes of vesicular, ulcerative, and necrotic dermatologic conditions; and reviews various management options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolf K Maas
- Center for Bird and Exotic Animal Medicine, 11401 Northeast 195th Street, Bothell, WA 98011, USA; ZooVet Consulting, PLLC, PO Box 1007, Bothell, WA 98041, USA.
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Fleming GJ, Robertson SA. Assessments of thermal antinociceptive effects of butorphanol and human observer effect on quantitative evaluation of analgesia in green iguanas (Iguana iguana). Am J Vet Res 2012; 73:1507-11. [DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.73.10.1507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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ANTINOCICEPTIVE EFFICACY OF BUPRENORPHINE AND HYDROMORPHONE IN RED-EARED SLIDER TURTLES (TRACHEMYS SCRIPTA ELEGANS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2012; 43:662-5. [DOI: 10.1638/2011-0260r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Delorme SL, Lungu IM, Vickaryous MK. Scar-Free Wound Healing and Regeneration Following Tail Loss in the Leopard Gecko,Eublepharis macularius. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2012; 295:1575-95. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.22490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2011] [Accepted: 03/27/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Wark J. Pain in Fish: The Evidence and Ethical Implications. A review of Do Fish Feel Pain by Dr. Victoria Braithwaite, Oxford University Press, 2010, 256 pp. Zoo Biol 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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