Influence of dietary supplementation with Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on sperm quality in dogs

Maca is a traditional Andean crop used as a nutraceutical for the fertility-enhancing properties that are linked with antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the potential beneficial effects of oral Maca (Lepidium meyenii or Lepidium peruvianum) supplementation in improving reproductive performance in male dogs. Forty-eight male dogs of different breeds were enrolled in the study, fed the same maintenance diet, and exposed to the same environmental conditions. The subjects were divided into four groups of 12 dogs each: Subfertile treatment group, Subfertile control group, Normofertile treatment group, and Normofertile control group. The dogs in the treatment groups received Lepidium meyenii in their diet in a capsule formulation [75 mg/kg Maca extract 10:1, thickening agent (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), ground rice], while the control groups received placebo capsule (starch). For each subject included in the study, the spermiogram was analyzed at three time points of the sperm cycle: at day 0 (T0), day 31 (T31), and day 62 (T62). Dietary supplementation with Maca in subfertile subjects resulted in a significant increase in ejaculate volume and total sperm count compared to the control group. This increase was also observed in normofertile subjects in the treatment group. In addition, total and progressive motility as well as sperm morphology were significantly improved in the groups treated with Maca compared to the control groups. The results thus highlight, for the first time, the potential efficacy of supplementation with 75 mg/kg of Maca extract daily in improving semen quality in dogs.

Expression of CD13 and CD26 on extracellular vesicles in canine seminal plasma: preliminary results

Canine seminal plasma is a complex fluid containing proteins, peptides, enzymes, hormones as well as extracellular vesicles that are involved in many physiological and pathological processes including reproduction. We examined the expression of the extracellular vesicles surface antigens Aminopeptidase-N (CD13) and Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (CD26) by flow cytometry. For this study, third fraction of the ejaculate, from fertile adult male German Shepherd dogs, was manually collected twice, two days apart. FACS analyses revealed that CD13 and CD26 are co-expressed on the 69.3 ± 3.7% of extracellular vesicles and only a 2.0 ± 0.5% of extracellular vesicles express CD26 alone. On the other hand, 28.6 ± 3.6% of seminal EVs express CD13 alone. Our results agree with the hypothesis that CD26 needs to be co-expressed with other signal-transducing molecules, while CD13, can perform functions independently of the presence or co-expression of CD26. The results obtained in normal fertile dogs could represent physiological expression of these enzymes. Therefore, it would be interesting to carry out further studies to evaluate the expression of CD13 and CD26 on extracellular vesicles as biomarker for prostate pathological condition in dogs.

Clinical and ultrasonographic findings of ovarian tumours in bitches: A retrospective study

A retrospective study was carried out to investigate incidence, clinical signs and ultrasonographic findings of ovarian tumours in a population of dogs referred to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Perugia (Italy) and Anicura Tyrus Veterinary Clinic (Terni, Italy). The period of study ranged from January 2005 to December 2021. A total of 1910 dogs were affected by neoplasia but only 35 of them (1.8%), of different breeds and ages, were found to have ovarian tumours. Ultrasound of the ovaries was performed based on clinical signs; the diagnosis was achieved after ultrasound findings prompted ovariohysterectomy and ovarian pathologic evaluation In our study, the age of bitches affected by ovarian neoplasia ranged from 3 to 20 years (mean 9.6 ± 3.8). The histopathological findings of ovarian masses identified 16 granulosa cell tumours (GCT) (46%), 7 adenomas (20%), 5 adenocarcinomas (14%), 2 teratomas (6%), 1 leiomyoma (3%), 1 luteoma (3%), 1 tecoma (3%), 1 dysgerminoma (3%), and 1 haemangiosarcoma (3%). In particular, with respect to clinical signs, 69% of bitches showed abnormalities of estrus cycle (short interestral interval, persistent estrus, prolonged interestral interval). The other main clinical signs included abdominal distention, palpable abdominal mass, vulvovaginal discharge, polyuria/polydipsia, mammary masses. When present, the laboratory abnormalities were slight anemia and leucocytosis with neutrophilia. The tumours were ultrasonographically classified as mainly solid: 12/35 (34%) (1 adenoma, 4 adenocarcinomas, 1 dysgerminoma, 1 haemangiosarcoma, 1 leyomioma, 1 luteoma, 1 GCT, 1 tecoma, 1 teratoma); solid with cystic component 13/35 (37%) (9 GCT, 2 Adenomas, 1 adenocarcinoma, 1 teratoma); and mainly cystic 10/35 (29%) (6 GCTs, 4 adenomas). In our study, the ultrasound examination allowed us to suspect ovarian neoplasia in asymptomatic subjects referred for breeding management or for preventive health check. On the basis of our data, we proposed to perform a complete periodic examination of the reproductive system once a year from 6 years. Nevertheless, the presence of ovarian neoplasms found in young subjects, during breeding management, suggest including routine ultrasound examination of the reproductive tract.

Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography (CEUS) in Imaging of the Reproductive System in Dogs: A Literature Review

The use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has been widely reported for reproductive imaging in humans and animals. This review aims to analyze the utility of CEUS in characterizing canine reproductive physiology and pathologies. In September 2022, a search for articles about CEUS in canine testicles, prostate, uterus, placenta, and mammary glands was conducted on PubMed and Scopus from 1990 to 2022, showing 36 total results. CEUS differentiated testicular abnormalities and neoplastic lesions, but it could not characterize tumors. In prostatic diseases, CEUS in dogs was widely studied in animal models for prostatic cancer treatment. In veterinary medicine, this diagnostic tool could distinguish prostatic adenocarcinomas. In ovaries, CEUS differentiated the follicular phases. In CEH-pyometra syndrome, it showed a different enhancement between endometrium and cysts, and highlighted angiogenesis. CEUS was shown to be safe in pregnant dogs and was able to assess normal and abnormal fetal-maternal blood flow and placental dysfunction. In normal mammary glands, CEUS showed vascularization only in diestrus, with differences between mammary glands. CEUS was not specific for neoplastic versus non-neoplastic masses and for benign tumors, except for complex carcinomas and neoplastic vascularization. Works on CEUS showed its usefulness in a wide spectrum of pathologies of this non-invasive, reliable diagnostic procedure.

Isolation of extracellular vesicles from bitch's amnion-derived cells culture and their CD59 expression: Preliminary results

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small spherical particles surrounded by a membrane with an unusual lipid composition and a striking cholesterol/phospholipidic ratio. About 2000 lipid and 3500 protein species were identified in EVs secreted by different cell sources. EVs mediate cell to cell communication in proximity to or distant from the cell of origin. In particular, it was suggested that they represent modulators of multiple processes during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to identify the presence of EVs in canine amnion-derived cells (ASCs) culture and the expression of CD 59 on their surface. Amniotic membrane was collected in PBS with antibiotics added from 2 bitches during elective caesarean section. Cells culture was prepared and EVs were isolated. EVs were used to evaluate CD59 expression by flow cytofluorimetry. We found that the majority of EVs expressed CD59. Our results could increase the knowledge about the complex mechanisms that regulate the pregnancy in the bitch.

Pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol following single oral and oral transmucosal administration in dogs

Introduction

In the last few years, different formulations containing cannabidiol (CBD) were tested with regard to its efficacy on chronic pain, refractory epilepsy, anxiety, aggressive behavior and atopic dermatitis in dogs. CBD is generally administered orally, but its low bioavailability, probably due to a first-pass metabolism, represents a great limitation. The aim of this study was to evaluate if CBD bioavailability increases after oral transmucosal administration (OTM) compared to oral treatment.

Methods

Twelve dogs diagnosed with mild chronic pain were enrolled in the study and treated once orally or OTM (6 dogs/group) with a pure CBD in oil formulation at a dosing rate of 1 mg/kg b.w. At prefixed time points, blood samples were collected to define CBD plasma concentrations vs. time profiles, and the main pharmacokinetics parameters were obtained by non-compartmental model.

Results

CBD Cmax, Tmax, terminal half-life and AUC_{0 - t} were 206.77 ± 167 and 200.33 ± 158.33 ng/mL, 2.17 ± 0.98 and 1.92 ± 1.11 h, 2.67 ± 0.53 and 2.62 ± 0.64 h, 647.51 ± 453.17, and 536.05 ± 370.21 h^*ng/mL, following oral and OTM administration, respectively. No significant difference in pharmacokinetic parameters were observed between treatments.

Discussion

The OTM administration did not increase cannabidiol bioavailability compared to oral treatment. The almost perfectly superimposable mean plasma concentrations of cannabidiol following the two treatments suggests that CBD is not able to be adsorbed by the oral mucosa or that its absorption is very scarce, and that CBD is swallowed and absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.

Characterization of Testicular Tumor Lesions in Dogs by Different Ultrasound Techniques

In this retrospective study, we assessed the accuracy of different blood flow imaging in diagnosing testicular tumor types in dogs. We recruited 27 dogs with leydigomas (14), seminomas (eight), sertoliomas (six), and mixed cells (five) confirmed histopathologically. In intact dogs, Pampiniform plexus and marginal arteries were scanned through pulsed Doppler. Blood flow and presence of intralesional/perilesional arteries were assessed by color and power Doppler, B-flow, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound. Tumor types did not differ by B-Mode ultrasonography characters. Pampiniform and testicular arteries of sertoliomas had higher (p < 0.05) pulsatility and resistive indexes. The proportion of leydigomas with a perilesional and/or perilesional/intralesional blood flow pattern detected by color and pulsed Doppler and B-flow was higher (p < 0.05) than that of the other tumors counted together. This resulted in a sensitivity of 81.8%, 83.3%, and 85.7%, a specificity of 76.5%, 56.3%, and 73.7%, and a correct classification rate of 78.6%, 67.9%, and 78.8%, respectively. While contrast enhanced ultrasound was highly effective in detecting all tumors, qualitative and quantitative parameters did not contribute to their differential diagnosis. In conclusion, results indicate that different testicular tumor types of dogs have subtly different vascular patterns, a condition that could help in identifying leydigomas.

Current Knowledge on the Multifactorial Regulation of Corpora Lutea Lifespan: The Rabbit Model

Simple Summary

Corpora lutea (CL) are temporary endocrine structures that secrete progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. A variety of regulatory factors come into play in modulating the functional lifespan of CL, with luteotropic and luteolytic effects. Many aspects of luteal phase physiology have been clarified, yet many others have not yet been determined, including the molecular and/or cellular mechanisms that maintain the CL from the beginning of luteolysis during early CL development. This paper summarizes our current knowledge of the endocrine and cellular mechanisms involved in multifactorial CL lifespan regulation, using the pseudopregnant rabbit model.

Abstract

Our research group studied the biological regulatory mechanisms of the corpora lutea (CL), paying particular attention to the pseudopregnant rabbit model, which has the advantage that the relative luteal age following ovulation is induced by the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH). CL are temporary endocrine structures that secrete progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. It is now clear that, besides the classical regulatory mechanism exerted by prostaglandin E2 (luteotropic) and prostaglandin F2α (luteolytic), a considerable number of other effectors assist in the regulation of CL. The aim of this paper is to summarize our current knowledge of the multifactorial mechanisms regulating CL lifespan in rabbits. Given the essential role of CL in reproductive success, a deeper understanding of the regulatory mechanisms will provide us with valuable insights on various reproductive issues that hinder fertility in this and other mammalian species, allowing to overcome the challenges for new and more efficient breeding strategies.

Effects of Two Commercial Diets on Several Reproductive Parameters in Bitches: Note Two-Lactation and Puppies' Performance

The study aimed to compare two diets, Control (CTR) and Experimental (EX) (mainly differing as regards their ingredients, energy, and protein contents) administered to medium and large-sized bitches from two months before the expected proestrus and up to 30 days after delivery on mothers' weight, body condition score, litter size, milk quality, and puppies' growth. No differences were found for body weight during pregnancy, even if the BCS after delivery was significantly (p < 0.01) higher in the EX group than in the CTR one. Concerning the size effect, the percentage of weight gain on the initial body weight was double in medium-sized dogs compared to large dogs (p < 0.01). The number of puppies per litter was significantly higher (p < 0.05) for the EX group compared to the CTR one. Concerning puppies' weight, the CTR group showed a significantly (p < 0.01) higher body weight from the 21st day of life due to the significant (p < 0.01) higher daily weight gain during the suckling period. Considering the performance of bitches and puppies, both diets seem useful for these stages of their lives. In fact, after 30 days of lactation, all tested bitches showed a healthy status and both the percentage of newborns mortality and puppies' growth kinetics fell into the normal physiological range for the species.

Effect of aglepristone (RU534) administration during follicular phase on progesterone, estradiol-17β and LH serum concentrations in bitches

Aglepristone was administered in bitches during the follicular phase to evaluate its effects on progesterone, estradiol-17β and LH serum concentrations. Ten German Shepherds were divided into two groups (treated n = 5; control n = 5). Treated bitches received 10 mg/kg BW of aglepristone subcutaneously during the early follicular phase, 24 hr after and then 7 days later. The control group was injected, at the same time periods, with saline solution (0.3 ml/kg BW). For the steroid evaluations, blood was collected daily from the onset of proestrus until the first day of cytological dioestrus. For LH base-line serum determination, blood was also collected every 20 min for 2 hr at the onset of proestrus. For LH surge identification, blood was collected daily (every 6 hr) starting from the day of the first administration of aglepristone or saline solution until the first day of dioestrus. All animals ovulated but the treated group presented longer ovulation-dioestrus intervals than the control group (5.2 ± 2.2 days p < .05). Serum concentrations of the evaluated hormones were similar between experimental animals except for serum LH. Indeed, no LH peaks were detected in the treated group while LH surges were clearly observed in the control group (9 ± 1 days after the beginning of proestrus. In particular, the area under the curve for LH was significantly lower in treated than control animals (12 ± 4 ng/ml x Day; p = .01). In conclusion, administrations of aglepristone during the follicular phase of the bitch does not affect the steroid hormone patterns but does prevent the occurrence of a LH surge. This work raises significant questions and opens perspectives concerning the mechanisms of ovulation in bitches.

Impact of Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum) Supplementation on the Energy Homeostasis of Rabbit Does: Uni- and Multivariate Approach

Simple Summary

The energy balance during the reproduction cycle is a problematic issue for livestock species because it has consequences not only on animal welfare but also on the profitability of the farm. The adoption of new nutritional strategies could improve both of these aspects. In the present study, the supplementation with goji berries was proposed and evaluated on the rabbit, which is both a livestock animal and a useful animal model. Goji berry is the fruit of Lycium barbarum that is a natural resource made up of several compounds with biological activities and their consumption could be beneficial for the health and the general well-being of humans and animals. Its effect on several hormones and metabolites involved on energy balance of rabbit doe were evaluated by using both uni- and multivariate approach. Our finding, in addition to describing the intricate relationships between body conditions, hormones and metabolites during pregnancy and lactation, suggested that the supplementation with goji berry in the rabbit diet at low percentage could improve some aspects of energy metabolism and, in particular, doe’s insulin sensitivity. Conversely, the intake of high doses of goji raises concerns due to the risk of excessive fattening and worsening of insulin resistance.

Abstract

This study examined the effects of goji berries dietary supplementation on the energetic metabolism of doe. Thirty days before artificial insemination, 75 New Zealand White does were assigned to three different diets: commercial standard diet (C) and supplemented with 1% (LG) and 3% (HG) of goji berries, respectively. Body conditions, hormones and metabolites were monitored until weaning. Body weight and BCS were higher in HG than C (p < 0.05). LG showed lower T3/T4 ratio and cortisol concentrations (p < 0.05) and tended to have lower indices of insulin resistances (p < 0.1) than HG. Compared to control, leptin was higher in HG at AI (p < 0.01) and in LG during lactation (p < 0.05). Two principal components were extracted by multivariate analysis describing the relationships between (1) non-esterified fatty acids, insulin and glucose levels, and (2) body conditions and leptin metabolism. The first component highlighted the energy deficit and the insulin resistance of the does during pregnancy and lactation. The second one showed that leptin, body weight and Body Condition Score (BCS) enhance as levels of goji berries in the diet increase. Thus, the effects of goji supplementation are dose-dependent: an improvement on energy metabolism was achieved with a low-dose while the highest dose could determine excessive fattening and insulin resistance in does.

Pregnancy and Fetal Development: Cephalic Presentation and Other Descriptive Ultrasonographic Findings from Clinically Healthy Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) under Human Care

Simple Summary

Ultrasound data are vital for monitoring and detecting problems in pregnancies, and although there is a significant amount of data for domestic species, data for marine mammals are scarce. In domestic species, the use of ultrasonography to monitor a pregnancy usually has the following aims: fetal movements, fetal heart rates, measurements of the skull and the thorax for the prediction of the birth date interval, the morphological aspects of the fetal organs, the appearance of the umbilical cord, and the placentation. The purpose of this study is to provide to the clinician additional relevant data on fetal development and well-being during a dolphin pregnancy that may also be useful for wild population monitoring. This study is the result of a retrospective analysis of 192 ultrasound scans over 10 years that, for the first time, describes the sonographic findings of the bottlenose dolphin organogenesis and their correlation with the stage of pregnancy, as well as the calf presentation at birth, according to its position within the uterus, and moreover a complete literature review.

Abstract

Ultrasonography is widely used in veterinary medicine for the diagnosis of pregnancy, and can also be used to monitor abnormal pregnancies, embryonic resorption, or fetal abortion. Ultrasonography plays an important role in modern-day cetacean preventative medicine because it is a non-invasive technique, it is safe for both patient and operator, and it can be performed routinely using trained responses that enable medical procedures. Reproductive success is an important aspect of dolphin population health, as it is an indicator of the future trajectory of the population. The aim of this study is to provide additional relevant data on feto-maternal ultrasonographic monitoring in bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) species, for both the clinicians and for in situ population studies. From 2009 to 2019, serial ultrasonographic exams of 11 healthy bottlenose dolphin females kept under human care were evaluated over the course of 16 pregnancies. A total of 192 ultrasound exams were included in the study. For the first time, the sonographic findings of the bottlenose dolphin organogenesis and their correlation with the stage of pregnancy are described. Furthermore, this is the first report that forecasts the cephalic presentation of the calf at birth, according to its position within the uterus.

Serum concentrations of leptin in pregnant and non-pregnant bitches

Leptin regulates body weight and several physiological processes including reproduction. We evaluated the circulating levels of leptin in pregnant and non-pregnant bitches as well as their correlation with body weight, food intake and number of foetuses. Nineteen healthy German shepherd bitches were used and divided in two groups (pregnant n = 12 and non-pregnant n = 7). Blood samples were collected every 15 days starting from ovulation (Day 0) throughout pregnancy (pregnant group, P) or throughout luteal phase (non-pregnant group, NP) In pregnant bitches, leptin concentrations increased from the day of ovulation (1.32 ± 0.06 ng/ml) up to day 45 (1.51 ± 0.06 ng/ml; p < .01) and returned to baseline values from day 60 post-ovulation. In non-pregnant bitches, leptin concentrations remained constant throughout the whole observation period (estimated marginal mean ± SE=1.33 ± 0.38 ng/ml). Pairwise comparisons showed significant differences between P and NP at day 45 post-ovulation (p < .05). Multivariable models indicated that, controlling for time and litter size, there was a positive relationship between leptin concentration and BW (p < .05) although Pearson coefficients showed that the correlation between BW and leptin was only significant in NP animals at day 45 (r = 0.76, p < .05). The multivariable approach also suggested that, holding BW and time constant, leptin concentrations tend to increase as the number of puppies increased (p = .06). Our study supports indirectly the contribution of the feto-placental unit to the circulating maternal leptin concentration.

Presence and expression of apelin and apelin receptor in bitch placenta

Apelin is a potent inotropic agent causing endothelium-mediated vasodilation and is involved in vessel formation by interacting with a specific receptor. Its cardiovascular profile suggests a role in the regulation of gestational hemodynamic changes. The expression of apelin and its receptor has been reported in some portions of the reproductive tract of different mammalian species. As far as we know, there are no reports describing the expression of apelin and apelin receptor in bitch's placenta. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate, for the first time, the presence and distribution of apelin and apelin receptor in bitch placenta by molecular biology and immunohistochemical techniques. Sixteen adult female half-breed bitches were used. The animals were divided into two groups based on the stage of pregnancy: group 1 (mid-gestation n = 8) and group 2 (end gestation n = 8). These bitches were subjected to ovariohysterectomy (group1) or non-conservative caesarean section (group 2). The immunohistochemical technique revealed the presence of positive immune reaction for apelin and apelin receptor in all the samples examined at 30 days and at the end of pregnancy. In particular, apelin and apelin receptor staining was evident in the cytoplasms of cytotrophoblasts and in epithelial cells of the maternal portion. Even if not included into the structure of the placenta, the uterine glands also exhibited a positive immune reaction for apelin and apelin receptor. The RT-PCR analysis showed the presence of transcripts for apelin and apelin receptor in all the placenta samples examined. On the basis of our results it was also possible to hypothesize a potential role of apelin in the control of local placenta blood flow during pregnancy development in bitches.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography of maternal and fetal blood flows in pregnant bitches

We evaluated the potential usefulness of CEUS to assess fetal-maternal circulation during pregnancy in dogs. Nine bitches were examined at 23, 30, and 45 days of gestation using an ultrasound machine (LOGIQ E9) and SonoVue^® contrast media as echo-signal enhancer. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of contrast enhancement patterns of uterine artery and utero/placental vessels were performed on recorded images. Independently of the gestational periods, the qualitative evaluation showed the initial wash-in phase from the first appearance of the uterine artery to the rapid distribution in embryonic vesicles or placenta to the progressive washout, whilst there was no enhancement of either embryos or fetuses in any bitch. Independent of gestational age, parameters derived from quantitative analysis of time intensity-curves of contrast enhancement (peak intensity, time to peak, rise time, washout) did not vary between proximal placenta, distal placenta, and uterine artery. With the progression of gestation, AUC values did not change in both proximal and distal placenta, but in the uterine artery it was lower (P ≤ 0.05) at day 30 than at day 23 (464.8 ± 16.1 vs.596.4 ± 28.1, respectively). In conclusion, CEUS appears to safely permit evaluation of the maternal and fetal vessels in the first two third of gestation, without any clinically relevant adverse effects. Further studies in a larger number of bitches in different stages of pregnancy are needed to establish standard parameters for normal pregnancies that can be used to detect abnormalities of pregnancy.

Intra-ovarian dynamic blood flow in pseudopregnant rabbits during prostaglandin F2α-induced luteolysis

In the present study, we evaluated the dynamic changes of intra-ovarian blood flow, by real-time colour-coded and pulsed Doppler ultrasonography, as well as the immunopresence of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) receptor (FP) and peripheral plasma progesterone concentrations in pseudopregnant rabbit after PGF2α treatments at either early- (4 days) and mid-luteal (9 days) stages. During the pre-treatment observation interval of one hour, the ovarian blood flows showed a fluctuating pattern. Independently of luteal stage, PGF2α administration caused a fourfold decline in the blood flow within 40 min that was followed 50 min later by a reactive hyperaemia that lasted several hours, while the resistive index showed an opposite trend. Twenty-four hour later, the blood flow was one half that measured before PGF2α injection. At day 4 of pseudopregnancy, PGF2α did not affect peripheral plasma progesterone concentrations, but at day 9, it caused functional luteolysis as progesterone levels declined 6 hr later to reach basal values after 24 hr. The changes in the ovarian blood flows of pseudopregnant rabbits receiving PGF2α were accompanied by simultaneous changes in the resistance index. This biphasic response in the blood flow and vascular resistances likely reflects reactive hyperaemia following vasoconstriction. By immunohistochemistry, strong positive immune reaction for FP was detected in the cytoplasm of endothelial cells of ovarian arteries, veins and capillaries. In conclusion, these results suggest that PGF2α could acutely regulate the ovarian blood flow of pseudopregnant rabbits, even if there is no evidence of a blood flow reduction anticipating luteolysis.

Doppler evaluation of umbilical artery during normal gestation in sheep

Throughout gestation, changes in foetal umbilical cord Doppler parameters in ewes were detected. Doppler ultrasonography of the umbilical artery was performed weekly starting at 18 weeks before parturition until birth. In the foetal umbilical artery (UA), systolic peak velocity (SPV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), increased (p for within-subjects effect <0.001) while pulsatility index (PI) resistance index (RI) decreased (p for within-subjects effect <0.001) with the progress of pregnancy. A linear trend was found on all patterns (p < 0.001). In particular, the EDV values increased significantly (p < 0.05) with respect to previous weeks, at weeks 16, 11, 10, 7, and 1 before parturition. The SPV values increased significantly (p < 0.05), with respect to previous observations, at weeks 11, 10, and 7 before parturition. Finally, the PI and RI decreased significantly (p < 0.05) only at week 7 before parturition. The increased velocities and reduced resistance index suggest a progressive increment in blood flow to the foetus towards the end of pregnancy. Foetal and utero-placental vascular parameters can be reliably evaluated using high-frequency ultrasound.

The immunohistochemical presence and distribution of ghrelin, apelin and their receptors in dog ovaries

The activity of ghrelin, apelin and their receptors has been correlated to the control of some infectious diseases, besides the hypothesis of their role in the control of some peripheral organs, among which ovaries. The aim of the present work was to highlight the presence and distribution of ghrelin, apelin and cognate receptors in the ovaries of pregnant bitches, by means of immunohistochemical techniques. Apelin, its receptor and the receptor of ghrelin were highlighted in the corpora lutea, with a particular localization in the cytoplasm of some luteal cells. Instead, a positive reaction for ghrelin was evident in the walls of small arteries in the connective tissue. These results allowed us to hypothesize that these molecules intervene in the control of ovaries in pregnant bitches, suggesting autocrine/paracrine mechanisms of regulation.

Immunohistochemistry detected and localized cannabinoid receptor type 2 in bovine fetal pancreas at late gestation

At present, data on the endocannabinoid system expression and distribution in the pancreatic gland appear scarce and controversial as descriptions are limited to humans and laboratory animals. Since the bovine pancreas is very similar to the human in endocrine portion development and control, studies on the fetal gland could prove to be very interesting, as an abnormal maternal condition during late pregnancy may be a predisposing trigger for adult metabolic disorders. The present investigation studied cannabinoid receptor type 2 presence and distribution in the bovine fetal pancreas towards the end of gestation. Histological analyses revealed numerous endocrinal cell clusters or islets which were distributed among exocrine adenomeri in connectival tissue. Immunohistochemistry showed that endocrine-islets contained some CB2-positive cells with a very peculiar localization that is a few primarily localized at the edges of islets and some of them also scattered in the center of the cluster. Characteristically, also the epithelium of the excretory ducts and the smooth muscle layers of the smaller arteries, in the interlobular glandular septa, tested positive for the CB2 endocannabinoid receptor. Consequently, the endocannabinoid system, via the cannabinoid receptor type 2, was hypothesized to play a major role in controlling pancreas function from normal fetal development to correct metabolic functioning in adulthood.

Addition of different concentrations of prostasome-like vesicles at neutral or slightly alkaline pH decreases canine sperm motility

Prostasome-like vesicles (PV) are components of the canine prostatic fluid during ejaculation and despite some enzymatic activities have been identified recently, their functions in the reproductive events in this species are still poorly understood. In this study, we evaluated at neutral or slightly alkaline pH, the effects of different concentrations of purified PV on sperm cell motility characteristics and the impact on the short- and long-term preservation of preserved semen maintained at room temperature. Two different experiments were performed. In the first experiment, purified PV were added at increasing concentration (1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 μL equivalent to 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 μg of protein, respectively) to aliquots of 100 μL of preserved semen maintained at 22 °C at the following time points: 0, 30, 60, 120, 240, and 480 min. Computer-assisted sperm motility characteristics and pH were assessed three times at each time points, for each sample and for every concentrations. In the second experiment, the purified PV were added with the same methods as described above but only at time 0. Sperm motility characteristics and pH were assessed over the time. This study showed how the addition of purified PV to preserved semen affects negatively (p < 0.05) at neutral and alkaline pH, both total and progressive motility in a concentration depending manner. Furthermore, prostasome addition was demonstrated to change the quality of sperm movement which may represent a mechanism facilitating sperm cells attachment to the uterine epithelium and facilitating energy preservation before fertilization.

A retrospective study of canine prostatic diseases from 2002 to 2009 at the Alfort Veterinary College in France

A retrospective study was used to investigate the incidence of prostatic diseases in a large population of dogs at Alfort Veterinary Hospital and to clarify epidemiologic features, which might be of a great help to veterinarians in managing and discriminating prostatic disorders. During the investigation period, a total of 72,300 male dogs (coming mainly from the Ile-de-France region) were registered in the Alfort Veterinary College database, and 481 of them (0.7%) were found to have prostatic disorder. The diagnosis was carried out on the basis of clinical signs and ultrasound findings. Among dogs experiencing a prostatic disorder, most frequently recorded diseases were benign prostatic hyperplasia (45.9%) and prostatitis (38.5%), followed by abscesses (7.7%), cysts (5.0%), neoplasia (2.6%), and squamous metaplasia (0.2%). Our study revealed an incidence of 0.3% of prostatic disorders observed in intact male dogs, except in the case of prostatic neoplasia. The mean age of the dogs experiencing prostatic disorders was 8.6 ± 3.2 years. This was significantly different (P < 0.001). Large dogs were significantly more affected by prostatic disorders (P < 0.05), except for prostatic neoplasia. A breed predisposition was suspected in German Shepherd (odds ratio [OR] = 2.1; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5-2.9), Rottweiler (OR = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.2-2.7), American Staffordshire Terrier (OR = 3.8; 95% CI: 2.5-5.8), Berger de Beauce (OR = 3.7; 95% CI: 2.2-6.1), and Bernese Mountain Dog (OR = 2.5; 95% CI: 1.3-4.7).

Immunohistochemical localization of orexin A and orexin type 2 receptor-positive cells in the placenta of dogs

The aim of the present study was to examine the presence and distribution of cells that express immunopositivity for orexin A (OXA) and its type 2 receptor (OX2R) in the dog placenta toward the end of pregnancy using immunohistochemical techniques. In the placental fetal portion, a few OXA and OX2R-positive cells were seen scattered in the outermost coating layer of chorionic villi and in the trophoblastic protrusions. Closer to the maternal portion, immunopositive labeling for both peptides was visible in the glandular epithelia and that for OXA also in the endothelium of the capillaries. These observations allow us to hypothesize that the canine placenta may be not only a source of orexin A, but also its target, and that orexin A may play an important role in controlling the function of this important organ for normal fetal development.

Effects of a bacterial lipopolysaccharide on the reproductive functions of rabbit does

Systemic and local infections and inflammations are known to cause infertility in humans and animals. However, the mechanisms by which infection/inflammation induces infertility are only partially known. The objectives of this study were: (i) to provide models of systemic (acute) and local (sub-acute) inflammation by intra-peritoneal injection or intra-cervical deposition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the rabbit and (ii) to assess their effects on uterine tissues and sperm transport in the genital tract of rabbit does. Intra-peritoneal administration of different doses of LPS induced systemic effects such as fever, anorexia and changes in white blood cells (WBC) count. In our study, LPS inoculation (100μg/kg) produced an inflammation-like status that lasted for about 3 days, with minimal distress for the animals. Intra-peritoneal administration of LPS 60h before artificial insemination induced a rapid increase of IL-1β concentrations. The intra-cervical inoculation of LPS did not show any systemic effects, as confirmed by the lack of changes in body temperature, feed intake and WBC count. Histological examination of uterine tissues showed an endometritis-like inflammation status in LPS-treated does, more severe in those inoculated intra-cervically. The number of spermatozoa recovered from uterine horns and oviducts of intra-cervically treated does was less than that retrieved from intra-peritoneally treated animals and controls. These results suggest (i) that sub-acute or acute inflammation may cause infertility by compromising the uterine environment and/or impairing sperm transport and (ii) that the LPS-induced -infection/inflammation experimental model is useful for studying the mechanisms involved in reproductive dysfunctions in the rabbit.

Evaluation of testicular artery blood flow by Doppler ultrasonography as a predictor of spermatogenesis in the dog

The present study examines the relationship between reproductive and seminal characteristic with blood flow supply of the testis in male dogs by means of Doppler ultrasonography. Five male dogs were subject to a clinical examination, blood sampling, B-Mode and Doppler ultrasonography of the testis, semen evaluation at collections and after storage at 4°C for 24, 48 and 72 h in three replicates 30 days apart. Peak Systolic Velocity was positively correlated with testicular volume and negatively with live sperm at collections and after 24h. A negative correlation existed between Resistive Index and Pulsatility Index with total and progressive motility at collections and also after 24, 48 and 72 h. Resistive Index and Pulsatility Index were also negatively correlated with the percentage of membrane intact sperms with curled tails at collections while the latter was positively correlated with End Diastolic Velocity. Moreover, positive linear correlations of weight with bilateral testicular volume and total sperm concentration and also between age and abnormal sperm at collections and after 24h were established. The results suggest that the Resistive Index and Pulsatility Index seem to be potential markers of seminal quality in dogs.

Immunolocalization of leptin and its receptor in the placenta of cats

The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence and the distribution of leptin (Ob) and its receptor (ObR) in the feline placenta at term by means of immunohistochemical techniques. A few Ob-positive cells were observed scattered in the lamellae of the labyrinthine placenta. These cells had the morphological characteristics typical of the very abundant cells in the placenta of cats that can be considered as being decidual and, in some cases, syncytiotrophoblastic cells. A few ObR-positive cells were observed in the same placental portion and were mainly localized in the lamellae, showing morphological features typical of decidual and syncytiotrophoblastic cells. No other structure of the placenta or the uterine wall showed positive reaction to the antibodies used. Our results confirm what has already been demonstrated in humans and laboratory animals, but not in domestic animals. Together with other emerging data on the secretory activities of the feline placenta, our study underlines its relevance in the production of molecules long known to be involved in appetite control and, probably, with potential effects on the developing fetus.

Doppler evaluation of maternal and fetal vessels during normal gestation in rabbits

The aim of this work was to evaluate the hemodynamic changes in the utero-placental arterial vessels in rabbits (Orictolagus cuniculus) throughout pregnancy as well as those in the umbilical cord, aorta, and caudal vena cava of fetuses to establish their normal reference ranges for systolic peak velocity (SPV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), pulsatility index (PI), and resistance index (RI). The blood flow waveforms were monitored every 4 d in 10 rabbits from Day 10 of pregnancy onward by means of color and pulsed wave Doppler ultrasonography using a 5.5-7.5 MHz microconvex transabdominal probe. The utero-placental blood flow was characterized by steep increases and decrease in the SPV with a slow diastolic wave and relatively high EDV, whereas that of the umbilical artery was discontinuous until Day 22 of pregnancy, when a diastolic waveform was also detectable. From Day 10 to 22 of pregnancy, the fetal aorta blood flow was discontinuous, but thereafter a diastolic peak was measurable. The blood flow of the fetal caudal vena cava was characterized by a systolic peak followed by a small diastolic peak. Throughout the gestation, the SPV and the EDV of maternal and fetal vessels increased (alpha<0.05), whereas the PI and the RI decreased (alpha<0.05), except for the utero-placental vessels. This work confirms that the rabbit could also be a valid experimental animal model to study, by Doppler ultrasonography, functional hemodynamic changes of the fetuses and placenta vessels in both normal and pathophysiologic conditions.

Doppler evaluation of maternal and fetal vessels during normal gestation in the bitch

The aim of this work is to evaluate the haemodynamic characteristics of maternal and fetal vessels during normal pregnancy in bitches, using Colour and Pulsed wave Doppler ultrasonography, in order to obtain more information about maternal and fetal circulation. The blood waveforms of the uteroplacental arteries, aorta, caudal cava vein and umbilical cord of the fetuses were recorded weekly in 16 pregnant bitches. Also, the measurements of Peak Systolic, End Diastolic Velocities, Resistance and Pulsatility Indices were carried out. Uteroplacental blood flow was biphasic while the ones of the umbilical artery and aorta were first systolic and then diastolic. The cava showed a typical waveform of venous vessels. During gestation the EDV and PSV of fetal vessels increased (alpha<0.05) while the PI and RI of all vessels examined decreased (alpha<0.05) except for the IP of the Aorta. The Doppler ultrasonography was used to study the characteristics of maternal and fetal vessel flow and their progressive changes during pregnancy. This study can be considered a further contribution in diagnosing and monitoring high-risk pregnancies in Veterinary Medicine.