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Ly H. Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus infection of companion animals. Virulence 2024; 15:2289780. [PMID: 38064414 PMCID: PMC10761027 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2289780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hinh Ly
- Department of Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, USA
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Macedo-Lima M, Fernández-Vargas M, Remage-Healey L. Social reinforcement guides operant behaviour and auditory learning in a songbird. Anim Behav 2024; 210:127-137. [PMID: 38505105 PMCID: PMC10947183 DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2024.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Motivation to seek social interactions is inherent to all social species. For instance, even with risk of disease transmission in a recent pandemic, humans sought out frequent in-person social interactions. In other social animals, socialization can be prioritized even over water or food consumption. Zebra finches, Taeniopygia guttata, are highly gregarious songbirds widely used in behavioural and physiological research. Songbirds, like humans, are vocal learners during development, which rely on intense auditory learning. Aside from supporting song learning, auditory learning further supports individual identification, mate choice and outcome associations in songbirds. To study auditory learning in a laboratory setting, studies often employ operant paradigms with food restriction and reinforcement and require complete social isolation, which can result in stress and other unintended physiological consequences for social species. Thus, in this work, we designed an operant behavioural method leveraging the sociality of zebra finches for goal-directed behaviours. Our approach relies on visual social reinforcement, without depriving the animals of food or social contact. Using this task, we found that visual social reinforcement was a strong motivational drive for operant behaviour. Motivation was sensitive to familiarity towards the stimulus animal and higher when engaging with a familiar versus a novel individual. We further show that this tool can be used to assess auditory discrimination learning using either songs or synthetic pure tones as stimuli. As birds gained experience in the task, they developed a strategy to maximize reward acquisition in spite of receiving more punishment, i.e. liberal response bias. Our operant paradigm provides an alternative to tasks using food reinforcement and could be applied to a variety of highly social species, such as rodents and nonhuman primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Macedo-Lima
- Matheus Macedo-Lima is now at the Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, U.S.A
| | - Marcela Fernández-Vargas
- Marcela Fernández-Vargas is now at the Department of Psychology, Neuroscience Program, Colorado College, Colorado Springs, CO, U.S.A
| | - Luke Remage-Healey
- Corresponding author. (L. Remage-Healey)., @HealeyLab, Neuroscience and Behavior Program, Center for Neuroendocrine Studies, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst MA, U.S.A.
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Bai Y, Lei H, Song W, Shin SC, Wang J, Xiao B, Koçer ZA, Song MS, Webster R, Webby R, Wong SS, Zanin M. Amino acids in the polymerase complex of shorebird-isolated H1N1 influenza virus impact replication and host-virus interactions in mammalian models. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024:2332652. [PMID: 38517705 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2332652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
A diverse population of avian influenza A viruses (AIVs) are maintained in wild birds and ducks yet the zoonotic potential of AIVs in these environmental reservoirs and the host-virus interactions involved in mammalian infection are not well understood. In studies of a group of subtype H1N1 AIVs isolated from migratory wild birds during surveillance in North America, we previously identified eight amino acids in the polymerase genes PB2 and PB1 that were important for the transmissibility of these AIVs in a ferret model of human influenza virus transmission. In this current study we found that PB2 containing amino acids associated with transmissibility at 67, 152, 199, 508, and 649 and PB1 at 298, 642, and 667 were associated with more rapid viral replication kinetics, greater infectivity, more active polymerase complexes and greater kinetics of viral genome replication and transcription. Pathogenicity in the mouse model was also impacted, evident as greater weight loss and lung pathology associated with greater inflammatory lung cytokine expression. Further, these AIVs all contained the avian-type amino acids of PB2-E627, D701, G590, Q591 and T271. Therefore, our study provides novel insights into the role of the AIV polymerase complex in the zoonotic transmission of AIVs in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqin Bai
- Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Lei
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Centre for Immunology & Infection, Limited, Hong Kong
| | - Wenjun Song
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio Island, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Jiaqi Wang
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Biying Xiao
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zeynep A Koçer
- Emerging Viral Diseases Laboratory, Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Türkiye
- Department of Biomedicine and Health Technologies, Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Min-Suk Song
- Department of Microbiology, Chungbuk National University Medical School, Chungbuk, Korea
| | - Robert Webster
- Department of Host-Microbe Interactions, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Richard Webby
- Department of Host-Microbe Interactions, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Sook-San Wong
- Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Mark Zanin
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Centre for Immunology & Infection, Limited, Hong Kong
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4
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da Silva DS, Rahal SC, da Silva JP, Mamprim MJ, de Camargo GC, Cassanego GR, Ichikawa RS. Radiologic and computed tomography evaluation of the beaks from three bird species. Anat Histol Embryol 2024; 53:e13027. [PMID: 38439649 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.13027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the beaks of three species of birds using radiography and computed tomography (CT). The mean lengths of maxillary and mandibular rostra on radiographs were highest for toco toucan, followed by buff-necked ibis, and least for red-legged seriema birds. The height and width of maxillary and mandibular rostra measured on CT had mean values highest for toco toucans, followed by red-legged seriema, and least for buff-necked ibis. Except for the proximal region of the maxillary rostrum, the HU values were positive for other regions of the maxillary and mandibular rostra in the buff-necked ibis and red-legged seriema and negative in all for the toco toucan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Simões da Silva
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Sheila Canevese Rahal
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Jeana Pereira da Silva
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Maria Jaqueline Mamprim
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Corrêa de Camargo
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Rech Cassanego
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Shoiti Ichikawa
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, Brazil
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Chatan W, Khemthong K, Akkharaphichet K, Suwarach P, Seerintra T, Piratae S. Molecular survey and genetic diversity of Plasmodium sp. infesting domestic poultry in northeastern Thailand. J Vet Res 2024; 68:101-108. [PMID: 38525236 PMCID: PMC10960258 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2024-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Haemosporidian parasites are prevalent worldwide and can cause economic losses in poultry production. These parasites are arousing interest in Thailand and are found in many avian species. There is insufficient information on the genetic diversity of these alveolates from the largest families - Plasmodidae, Haemoprotidae and Leucocytozoidae - specifically parasitising ducks, turkeys, and geese. Material and Methods Blood samples from 116 backyard poultry (60 ducks, 36 turkeys and 20 geese) in northeastern Thailand were investigated for Plasmodium spp., Haemoproteus spp. and Leucocytozoon spp. infections using microscopic examination and molecular approaches. Results A total of 37/116 birds (31.9%) had confirmed Plasmodium infections. The prevalence was 69.4% (25/36) in turkeys, 18.3% (11/60) in ducks, and 5.0% (1/20) in geese. Of these 37 positives, 86.5% were Plasmodium sp., 10.8% were P. gallinaceum and 2.7% were P. juxtanucleare. Sequence analysis based on the cytochrome b gene identified seven lineages, of which two were new lineages in backyard poultry. Conclusion This is the first report on the prevalence of haemosporidian parasites in backyard poultry in northeastern Thailand. The results provide important data for better understanding the molecular epidemiology of haemosporidian parasites infection in poultry in this region, which will be helpful in controlling these blood parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Supawadee Piratae
- One Health Research Unit, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham44000, Thailand
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Lyte JM, Eckenberger J, Keane J, Robinson K, Bacon T, Assumpcao ALFV, Donoghue AM, Liyanage R, Daniels KM, Caputi V, Lyte M. Cold stress initiates catecholaminergic and serotonergic responses in the chicken gut that are associated with functional shifts in the microbiome. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103393. [PMID: 38320392 PMCID: PMC10851224 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Climate change is one of the most significant challenges facing the sustainability of global poultry production. Stress resulting from extreme temperature swings, including cold snaps, is a major concern for food production birds. Despite being well-documented in mammals, the effect of environmental stress on enteric neurophysiology and concomitant impact on host-microbiome interactions remains poorly understood in birds. As early life stressors may imprint long-term adaptive changes in the host, the present study sought to determine whether cold temperature stress, a prominent form of early life stress in chickens, elicits changes in enteric stress-related neurochemical concentrations that coincide with compositional and functional changes in the microbiome that persist into the later life of the bird. Chicks were, or were not, subjected to cold ambient temperature stress during the first week post-hatch and then remained at normal temperature for the remainder of the study. 16S rRNA gene and shallow shotgun metagenomic analyses demonstrated taxonomic and functional divergence between the cecal microbiomes of control and cold stressed chickens that persisted for weeks following cessation of the stressor. Enteric concentrations of serotonin, norepinephrine, and other monoamine neurochemicals were elevated (P < 0.05) in both cecal tissue and luminal content of cold stressed chickens. Significant (P < 0.05) associations were identified between cecal neurochemical concentrations and microbial taxa, suggesting host enteric neurochemical responses to environmental stress may shape the cecal microbiome. These findings demonstrate for the first time that early life exposure to environmental temperature stress can change the developmental trajectory of both the chicken cecal microbiome and host neuroendocrine enteric physiology. As many neurochemicals serve as interkingdom signaling molecules, the relationships identified here could be exploited to control the impact of climate change-driven stress on avian enteric host-microbe interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua M Lyte
- Poultry Production and Product Safety Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA.
| | - Julia Eckenberger
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Kelsy Robinson
- Poultry Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA
| | - Tyler Bacon
- Poultry Production and Product Safety Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | | | - Annie M Donoghue
- Poultry Production and Product Safety Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Rohana Liyanage
- Statewide Mass Spectrometry Lab, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Karrie M Daniels
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Valentina Caputi
- Poultry Production and Product Safety Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Mark Lyte
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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Carroll KA, Pidgeon AM, Elsen PR, Farwell LS, Gudex-Cross D, Zuckerberg B, Radeloff VC. Mapping multiscale breeding bird species distributions across the United States and evaluating their conservation applications. Ecol Appl 2024; 34:e2934. [PMID: 38071693 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Species distribution models are vital to management decisions that require understanding habitat use patterns, particularly for species of conservation concern. However, the production of distribution maps for individual species is often hampered by data scarcity, and existing species maps are rarely spatially validated due to limited occurrence data. Furthermore, community-level maps based on stacked species distribution models lack important community assemblage information (e.g., competitive exclusion) relevant to conservation. Thus, multispecies, guild, or community models are often used in conservation practice instead. To address these limitations, we aimed to generate fine-scale, spatially continuous, nationwide maps for species represented in the North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) between 1992 and 2019. We developed ensemble models for each species at three spatial resolutions-0.5, 2.5, and 5 km-across the conterminous United States. We also compared species richness patterns from stacked single-species models with those of 19 functional guilds developed using the same data to assess the similarity between predictions. We successfully modeled 192 bird species at 5-km resolution, 160 species at 2.5-km resolution, and 80 species at 0.5-km resolution. However, the species we could model represent only 28%-56% of species found in the conterminous US BBSs across resolutions owing to data limitations. We found that stacked maps and guild maps generally had high correlations across resolutions (median = 84%), but spatial agreement varied regionally by resolution and was most pronounced between the East and West at the 5-km resolution. The spatial differences between our stacked maps and guild maps illustrate the importance of spatial validation in conservation planning. Overall, our species maps are useful for single-species conservation and can support fine-scale decision-making across the United States and support community-level conservation when used in tandem with guild maps. However, there remain data scarcity issues for many species of conservation concern when using the BBS for single-species models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen A Carroll
- Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Anna M Pidgeon
- Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Paul R Elsen
- Wildlife Conservation Society, Global Conservation Program, Bronx, New York, USA
| | | | - David Gudex-Cross
- RedCastle Resources, Inc. Forest Service Contractor, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Benjamin Zuckerberg
- Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Volker C Radeloff
- Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Ernest HB, Tell LA, Bishop CA, González AM, Lumsdaine ER. Illuminating the Mysteries of the Smallest Birds: Hummingbird Population Health, Disease Ecology, and Genomics. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2024; 12:161-185. [PMID: 38358836 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-021022-044308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Hummingbirds share biologically distinctive traits: sustained hovering flight, the smallest bird body size, and high metabolic rates fueled partially by nectar feeding that provides pollination to plant species. Being insectivorous and sometimes serving as prey to larger birds, they fulfill additional important ecological roles. Hummingbird species evolved and radiated into nearly every habitat in the Americas, with a core of species diversity in South America. Population declines of some of their species are increasing their risk of extinction. Threats to population health and genetic diversity are just beginning to be identified, including diseases and hazards caused by humans. We review the disciplines of population health, disease ecology, and genomics as they relate to hummingbirds. We appraise knowledge gaps, causes of morbidity and mortality including disease, and threats to population viability. Finally, we highlight areas of research need and provide ideas for future studies aimed at facilitating hummingbird conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly B Ernest
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, USA;
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA; ,
| | - Lisa A Tell
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA; ,
| | - Christine A Bishop
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada; ,
| | - Ana M González
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Delta, British Columbia, Canada; ,
| | - Emily R Lumsdaine
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA; ,
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Flores RA, Cammayo-Fletcher PLT, Nguyen BT, Villavicencio AGM, Lee SY, Son Y, Kim JH, Park KI, Yoo WG, Jin YB, Min W, Kim WH. Genetic Characterization and Phylogeographic Analysis of the First H13N6 Avian Influenza Virus Isolated from Vega Gull in South Korea. Viruses 2024; 16:285. [PMID: 38400060 PMCID: PMC10891532 DOI: 10.3390/v16020285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Avian influenza virus (AIV) is a pathogen with zoonotic and pandemic potential. Migratory birds are natural reservoirs of all known subtypes of AIVs, except for H17N10 and H18N11, and they have been implicated in previous highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks worldwide. This study identified and characterized the first isolate of the H13N6 subtype from a Vega gull (Larus vegae mongolicus) in South Korea. The amino acid sequence of hemagglutinin gene showed a low pathogenic AIV subtype and various amino acid substitutions were found in the sequence compared to the reference sequence and known H13 isolates. High sequence homology with other H13N6 isolates was found in HA, NA, PB1, and PA genes, but not for PB2, NP, M, and NS genes. Interestingly, various point amino acid mutations were found on all gene segments, and some are linked to an increased binding to human-type receptors, resistance to antivirals, and virulence. Evolutionary and phylogenetic analyses showed that all gene segments are gull-adapted, with a phylogeographic origin of mostly Eurasian, except for PB2, PA, and M. Findings from this study support the evidence that reassortment of AIVs continuously occurs in nature, and migratory birds are vital in the intercontinental spread of avian influenza viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rochelle A. Flores
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; (R.A.F.); (P.L.T.C.-F.); (B.T.N.); (A.G.M.V.); (S.Y.L.); (Y.S.); (K.I.P.); (Y.B.J.); (W.M.)
| | - Paula Leona T. Cammayo-Fletcher
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; (R.A.F.); (P.L.T.C.-F.); (B.T.N.); (A.G.M.V.); (S.Y.L.); (Y.S.); (K.I.P.); (Y.B.J.); (W.M.)
| | - Binh T. Nguyen
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; (R.A.F.); (P.L.T.C.-F.); (B.T.N.); (A.G.M.V.); (S.Y.L.); (Y.S.); (K.I.P.); (Y.B.J.); (W.M.)
| | - Andrea Gail M. Villavicencio
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; (R.A.F.); (P.L.T.C.-F.); (B.T.N.); (A.G.M.V.); (S.Y.L.); (Y.S.); (K.I.P.); (Y.B.J.); (W.M.)
| | - Seung Yun Lee
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; (R.A.F.); (P.L.T.C.-F.); (B.T.N.); (A.G.M.V.); (S.Y.L.); (Y.S.); (K.I.P.); (Y.B.J.); (W.M.)
| | - Yongwoo Son
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; (R.A.F.); (P.L.T.C.-F.); (B.T.N.); (A.G.M.V.); (S.Y.L.); (Y.S.); (K.I.P.); (Y.B.J.); (W.M.)
| | - Jae-Hoon Kim
- National Park Research Institute, Korean National Park Service, Wonju 26441, Gangwon, Republic of Korea;
| | - Kwang Il Park
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; (R.A.F.); (P.L.T.C.-F.); (B.T.N.); (A.G.M.V.); (S.Y.L.); (Y.S.); (K.I.P.); (Y.B.J.); (W.M.)
| | - Won Gi Yoo
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea;
| | - Yeung Bae Jin
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; (R.A.F.); (P.L.T.C.-F.); (B.T.N.); (A.G.M.V.); (S.Y.L.); (Y.S.); (K.I.P.); (Y.B.J.); (W.M.)
| | - Wongi Min
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; (R.A.F.); (P.L.T.C.-F.); (B.T.N.); (A.G.M.V.); (S.Y.L.); (Y.S.); (K.I.P.); (Y.B.J.); (W.M.)
| | - Woo H. Kim
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; (R.A.F.); (P.L.T.C.-F.); (B.T.N.); (A.G.M.V.); (S.Y.L.); (Y.S.); (K.I.P.); (Y.B.J.); (W.M.)
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Wang Z, Su Y, Zhao M, Ma Z, Li J, Hou Z, Li H. NOTCH1 as a Negative Regulator of Avian Adipocyte Differentiation: Implications for Fat Deposition. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:585. [PMID: 38396553 PMCID: PMC10886207 DOI: 10.3390/ani14040585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The NOTCH signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in diverse developmental processes, including cell proliferation and differentiation. In this study, we investigated whether this signaling molecules also contribute to avian adipogenesis. Using previous mRNA-seq datasets, we examined the expression of 11 signaling members during avian adipocyte differentiation. We found most members are down-regulated throughout differentiation (p < 0.05). As a representative, NOTCH1 was decreased in cultured chicken abdominal adipocytes during adipogenesis at mRNA and protein levels (p < 0.05). Moreover, using an overexpression plasmid for NOTCH1's intracellular domain (NICD1), as well as siRNA and DAPT to activate or deplete NOTCH1 in cells, we investigated the role of NOTCH1 in avian adipogenesis. Our findings illuminate that NOTCH1 activates the expression of HES1 and SOCS3 while it decreases NR2F2 and NUMB (p < 0.05), as well as inhibits oleic acid-induced adipocyte differentiation (p < 0.01). We further demonstrate that HES1, a downstream transcription factor activated by NOTCH1, also significantly inhibits adipogenesis by suppressing PPARγ and C/EBPα (p < 0.01). Collectively, these findings establish NOTCH1 as a negative regulator of avian adipocyte differentiation, unveiling NOTCH signaling as a potential target for regulating avian fat deposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Z.W.); (Y.S.); (M.Z.); (Z.M.)
| | - Yue Su
- College of Life Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Z.W.); (Y.S.); (M.Z.); (Z.M.)
| | - Mingyu Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Z.W.); (Y.S.); (M.Z.); (Z.M.)
| | - Zhenhua Ma
- College of Life Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Z.W.); (Y.S.); (M.Z.); (Z.M.)
| | - Jianhui Li
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong 030801, China;
| | - Zhuocheng Hou
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and MARA Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China;
| | - Huifeng Li
- College of Life Sciences, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong 030801, China; (Z.W.); (Y.S.); (M.Z.); (Z.M.)
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11
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González-Alonso-Alegre EM, Martínez-Nevado E, de Quadros LP, de la Riva-Fraga M, Rodríguez-Álvaro A. Characterisation of cataracts and other ophthalmic findings in various species of captive penguins. Vet Rec 2024; 194:e3667. [PMID: 38012019 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of ophthalmic diseases that affect vision and/or cause discomfort should be a priority in captive penguins to improve their overall health and quality of life. METHODS A routine ophthalmological examination was performed on 80 clinically normal penguins (160 eyes), and any lesions observed were recorded. RESULTS Ocular lesions were frequent (56% of penguins), with cataracts being the most common (48.8% of penguins). Cortical cataracts (63% of eyes) and posterior subcapsular cataracts (27.4%) were the most commonly occurring. All maturation stages were found; incipient cataracts (52.1% of eyes with cataracts) were predominant, while Morgagnian cataracts (8.2%) were the least frequent. A correlation existed between lenticular changes and increasing age. Uveitis was present in 43.8% of eyes with cataracts, and ectropion uveae was the predominant clinical sign. Other ocular findings included blepharitis (3.8% of all eyes), corneal leukoma (5.6%) and posterior lens subluxation (7.5%). LIMITATIONS The small number of birds of some species prevented the comparison of ophthalmic findings between species. CONCLUSION This study corroborates the high prevalence of ocular lesions in captive penguins. Cataracts were frequent and age related. Most cataracts were cortical, and the predominant maturation stage was incipient. Lens-induced uveitis was a common finding. Lowered intraocular pressure was related to cataract formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa M González-Alonso-Alegre
- Departamento de Medicina y Cirugía Animal, Hospital Clínico Veterinario Complutense, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Alfonso Rodríguez-Álvaro
- Departamento de Medicina y Cirugía Animal, Hospital Clínico Veterinario Complutense, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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12
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Ungurean G, Rattenborg NC. A mammal and bird's-eye-view of the pupil during sleep and wakefulness. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:584-594. [PMID: 37038095 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Besides regulating the amount of light that reaches the retina, fluctuations in pupil size also occur in isoluminant conditions during accommodation, during movement and in relation to cognitive workload, attention and emotion. Recent studies in mammals and birds revealed that the pupils are also highly dynamic in the dark during sleep. However, despite exhibiting similar sleep states (rapid eye movement [REM] and non-REM [NREM] sleep), wake and sleep state-dependent changes in pupil size are opposite between mammals and birds, due in part to differences in the type (striated vs. smooth) and control of the iris muscles. Given the link between pupil dynamics and cognitive processes occurring during wakefulness, sleep-related changes in pupil size might indicate when related processes are occurring during sleep. Moreover, the divergent pupillary behaviour observed between mammals and birds raises the possibility that changes in pupil size in birds are a readout of processes not reflected in the mammalian pupil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianina Ungurean
- Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, Seewiesen, Germany
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13
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Mohammadi A, Goodarzi N. Characterization of the pancreas of common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus): A light and transmission electron microscope study. Microsc Res Tech 2024; 87:339-348. [PMID: 37830262 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
The present work was carried out to investigate the structure and ultra structure of the pancreas in the common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus). Totally, five healthy adult pheasant were used. The pancreas was assessed using histochemistry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The pancreas was composed of four lobes: dorsal, ventral, third, and splenic lobes. These lobes emptied into ascending duodenum through three excretory ducts as: ventral duct, splenic duct, and a common duct for dorsal and third lobes. The exocrine pancreas was constituted of pyramidal-shaped acinar cells with aggregation of zymogen granules at their apical cytoplasm. The endocrine pancreas was identified as large islet of Langerhans as α islets and small islets as β ones. No mixed islet was observed. At the level of TEM, two types of acinar cells were distinguished: Dark cells with electron dense cytoplasm, and indented nucleus, Light cells with electron lucent cytoplasm, and regular nucleus. The α islets were mainly constituted by A and D cells, whereas the β islets principally contained B cells and a few A cells. No D cells were identified in β islets. B cells were characterized by their polymorphic granules which were surrounded by a narrow halo zone. The granules of D cells were quite different. These cells contained large spherical granules with lower density as compared to the A or B granules surrounded by a limiting membrane. In conclusion, the pancreas of the common pheasant has a species-specific feature which must be considered in phylogenic studies. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The common pheasant's pancreas was composed of four lobes as dorsal, ventral, third, and splenic lobe. There were three excretory ducts. Ventral duct for ventral lobe, a common duct for both dorsal and third lobes, and a distinct splenic duct for splenic lobe. The exocrine acini were composed of two distinct types of cells: dark cells and light cells. The large alpha islets were composed of alpha cells and a few numbers of delta cells and small beta islets were composed of beta cells and a few numbers of alpha cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asreen Mohammadi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Nader Goodarzi
- Department of Basic Sciences and Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
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14
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Gaede AH, Gutiérrez-Ibáñez C, Wu PH, Pilon MC, Altshuler DL, Wylie DR. Topography of visual and somatosensory inputs to the pontine nuclei in zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata). J Comp Neurol 2024; 532:e25556. [PMID: 37938923 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Birds have a comprehensive network of sensorimotor projections extending from the forebrain and midbrain to the cerebellum via the pontine nuclei, but the organization of these circuits in the pons is not thoroughly described. Inputs to the pontine nuclei include two retinorecipient areas, nucleus lentiformis mesencephali (LM) and nucleus of the basal optic root (nBOR), which are important structures for analyzing optic flow. Other crucial regions for visuomotor control include the retinorecipient ventral lateral geniculate nucleus (GLv), and optic tectum (TeO). These visual areas, together with the somatosensory area of the anterior (rostral) Wulst, which is homologous to the primary somatosensory cortex in mammals, project to the medial and lateral pontine nuclei (PM, PL). In this study, we used injections of fluorescent tracers to study the organization of these visual and somatosensory inputs to the pontine nuclei in zebra finches. We found a topographic organization of inputs to PM and PL. The PM has a lateral subdivision that predominantly receives projections from the ipsilateral anterior Wulst. The medial PM receives bands of inputs from the ipsilateral GLv and the nucleus laminaris precommisulis, located medial to LM. We also found that the lateral PL receives a strong ipsilateral projection from TeO, while the medial PL and region between the PM and PL receive less prominent projections from nBOR, bilaterally. We discuss these results in the context of the organization of pontine inputs to the cerebellum and possible functional implications of diverse somato-motor and visuomotor inputs and parcellation in the pontine nuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea H Gaede
- Structure and Motion Laboratory, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
| | | | - Pei-Hsuan Wu
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Madison C Pilon
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Douglas L Altshuler
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Douglas R Wylie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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15
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Ordiway G, McDonnell M, Sanchez JT. Revisiting the Chicken Auditory Brainstem Response: Frequency Specificity, Threshold Sensitivity, and Cross Species Comparison. Neurosci Insights 2024; 19:26331055241228308. [PMID: 38304551 PMCID: PMC10832403 DOI: 10.1177/26331055241228308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The auditory brainstem response (ABR) is important for both clinical and basic auditory research. It is a non-invasive measure of hearing function with millisecond-level precision. The ABR can not only measure the synchrony, speed, and efficacy of auditory physiology but also detect different modalities of hearing pathology and hearing loss. ABRs are easily acquired in vertebrate animal models like reptiles, birds, and mammals, and complement existing molecular, developmental, and systems-level research. One such model system is the chicken; an excellent animal for studying auditory development, structure, and function. However, the ABR for chickens was last reported nearly 4 decades ago. The current study examines how decades of ABR characterization in other animal species support findings from the chicken ABR. We replicated and expanded on previous research using 43 chicken hatchlings 1- and 2-day post-hatch. We report that click-evoked chicken ABRs presented with a peak waveform morphology, amplitude, and latency like previous avian studies. Tone-evoked ABRs were found for frequencies from 250 to 4000 Hertz (Hz) and exhibited a range of best sensitivity between 750 and 2000 Hz. Objective click-evoked and tone-evoked ABR thresholds were comparable to subjective thresholds. With these revisited measurements, the chicken ABR still proves to be an excellent example of precocious avian development that complements decades of molecular, neuronal, and systems-level research in the same model organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Ordiway
- Roxelyn and Richard Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Central Auditory Physiology Laboratory, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Miranda McDonnell
- Roxelyn and Richard Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Central Auditory Physiology Laboratory, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Jason Tait Sanchez
- Roxelyn and Richard Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Central Auditory Physiology Laboratory, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Knowles Hearing Research Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
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16
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Attarian H, Lamb SK, Pilny A. Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of a Renal Cyst Causing Unilateral Lameness in a Golden Eagle ( Aquila chrysaetos). J Avian Med Surg 2024; 37:339-346. [PMID: 38363166 DOI: 10.1647/avianms-d-23-00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
This report describes the diagnosis and treatment of a benign renal cyst in an adult, female golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) presented for unilateral leg lameness. A cyst at the cranial division of the left kidney was diagnosed by computed tomography and was suspected of compressing the lumbosacral nerve plexus, resulting in limb lameness. The renal cyst was incompletely excised because the cyst wall was closely adhered to the kidney parenchyma and local blood supply. Fluid analysis and surgical biopsy of the cyst and left kidney confirmed the diagnosis of a benign renal cyst. No evidence of an infectious, inflammatory, or neoplastic etiology was noted. Postoperatively, the eagle's lameness resolved and the bird was ultimately released following recovery. During treatment for the renal cyst, the eagle was concurrently found to have increased serum titers on elementary body agglutination for Chlamydia psittaci and a positive titer for Aspergillus species antibody testing. The bird was administered doxycycline, azithromycin, and voriconazole for treatment of these potential pathogens prior to release. Unfortunately, the eagle was found dead 86 days postrelease due to an unknown cause. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of a golden eagle with a benign solitary renal cyst causing unilateral lameness secondary to nerve compression that was resolved with surgical excision.
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17
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Ambar N, Mans C, Gasper DJ. Antemortem Diagnosis and Successful Long-term Management of Disseminated Intracoelomic Xanthogranulomatous Disease in an Eclectus Parrot ( Eclectus roratus). J Avian Med Surg 2024; 37:330-338. [PMID: 38363165 DOI: 10.1647/2023-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
A 12-year-old male eclectus parrot (Eclectus roratus) was referred for evaluation of coelomic distention. Computed tomography and blood work revealed coelomic effusion with free coelomic mineral-attenuating material and elevations in the bile acids and aspartate aminotransferase activity, respectively. Coelomic effusion was consistent with macrophagic inflammation with abundant intracellular lipids. Initial treatment with meloxicam resulted in minimal patient improvement. Disseminated xanthogranulomatous inflammation was suspected based on imaging and diagnostic laboratory results, which were consistent with those previously reported. Biopsy samples of liver tissue and intracoelomic masses confirmed this diagnosis. Treatment was initiated with prednisolone 1 mg/kg/d for 6 months, followed by 0.5 mg/kg/d for 3 months. Clinical improvement was assessed based on owner evaluation, plasma bile acid concentrations, and repeated computed tomographic scans. After 2 months of treatment, the owner reported improved behavior and appetite; this persisted throughout treatment and when the bird was reexamined 17 months following the cessation of steroid therapy. Bile acid concentrations were normal 10 months after the prednisolone therapy was discontinued. Diagnostic imaging showed minimal coelomic effusion 10 months after the last prednisolone dose was administered, with improved ventilation of the air sacs and static to improved dystrophic mineral foci. This report describes the antemortem diagnosis and treatment of disseminated coelomic xanthogranulomatous disease in a psittacine species, with an observed measurable therapeutic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neta Ambar
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Christoph Mans
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA,
| | - David J Gasper
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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18
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Mason AK, Padlo J, Mitchell MA, Heatley JJ, Tully TN. Measuring the Level of Agreement for Lactate Measurements in Hispaniolan Amazon Parrots ( Amazona ventralis) Among 2 Point-of-Care Analyzers and a Benchtop Analyzer. J Avian Med Surg 2024; 37:314-320. [PMID: 38363163 DOI: 10.1647/1082-6742-37.4.314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Lactate is an important biochemistry analyte used in human and veterinary medicine to assess tissue perfusion and can be used as a prognostic indicator for certain disease conditions. Whereas lactate is commonly measured using "patient-side" handheld meters, these meters have not been validated for companion avian species. The purpose of this study was to measure the level of agreement between 2 commercially available point-of-care lactate meters and a laboratory benchtop blood analyzer in Hispaniolan Amazon parrots (Amazona ventralis). Blood samples were collected from 20 adult parrots at Louisiana State University by drawing 1.5 mL of blood from the right jugular vein. One drop of whole blood was used for the Lactate Plus analyzer and the remainder of the sample transferred into a lithium heparin microtainer. From the blood in the microtainer, 0.2 mL whole blood was analyzed using the epoc Blood Analysis System, and the remaining sample was centrifuged to obtain plasma that was immediately frozen at -80°C (-112°F) and submitted to the Texas A&M University Clinical Pathology Laboratory for analysis on the VITROS 4500 benchtop analyzer. Bland-Altman agreement plots and Passing-Bablok regression were used to measure the level of agreement between the methods. There was poor agreement between all 3 methods with mean percentage differences in lactate concentrations ≥22% (epoc and Lactate Plus: 33.6% [95% CI: 27-40]; epoc and VITROS 4500: 55% [95% CI:52-58]; VITROS 4500 and Lactate Plus: 22% [95% CI:16-28]). Based on these results, the point-of-care meters tested in this study are not interchangeable, and separate reference intervals were calculated for each method. Blood lactate concentrations may have more utility in tracing lactate trends over time in an individual rather than being able to utilize this information at 1 time point for disease diagnosis and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra K Mason
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA,
| | - Jordan Padlo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Mark A Mitchell
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - J Jill Heatley
- Veterinary & Biomedical Education Complex, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Thomas N Tully
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
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19
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Voltura EV, Brightsmith DJ, Cornejo J, Tizard I, Bailey CA, Heatley JJ. Parrot Dietary Habits and Consumption of Alternate Foodstuffs. J Avian Med Surg 2024; 37:297-313. [PMID: 38363162 DOI: 10.1647/20-00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Inappropriate diets cause many of the health problems commonly reported in parrots by psittaculturists and veterinarians. The dietary management of captive parrots would benefit from information derived from studies of dietary habits of wild parrots; however, it is unclear how complete this body of knowledge is at this time. Documentation of parrots' dietary habits appears to have grown dramatically over the past century. Reports of parrots consuming a number of foodstuffs beyond the reproductive parts of plants (alternate foodstuffs) have increased. The extent of alternate foodstuffs in parrot diets is currently unknown. We used Google search engines (ie, Scholar, Videos, Images) to determine how well psittaciform dietary habits have been studied to date and to quantify reports of alternate foodstuffs consumption among genera of Psittaciformes. We found that the dietary habits of over 43% of parrot species are poorly resolved. The dietary habits of 71.5% of parrot species classified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as at risk of extinction are not well resolved. Parrots' consumption of alternate foodstuffs occurred at the following rates at the genus level: 91.2% foliage, 76.9% terrestrial invertebrates and fine earthen materials, 74.7% wood, 44% pure minerals, 34.1% vertebrates (9.9% dung), 29.7% sap, 19.8% roots, 17.6% charcoal, 18.7% epiphytes, 16.5% coarse earthen materials, 8.8% algae, and 6.6% aquatic invertebrates. Of these reports, 79.1% involved observations of wild parrots. Many parrot species may be more omnivorous than previously realized. Alternate foodstuffs are generally absent from current veterinary-based dietary recommendations for captive parrots. Future studies are needed to determine whether providing alternate foodstuffs to captive parrots can be used as a means to improve their diets and thus their health, welfare, and reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise V Voltura
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77853, USA,
- Schubot Center for Avian Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77853, USA
| | - Donald J Brightsmith
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77853, USA
- Schubot Center for Avian Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77853, USA
| | - Juan Cornejo
- Mandai Park Development, Ltd, Singapore Zoological Gardens, Singapore 729826
| | - Ian Tizard
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77853, USA
- Schubot Center for Avian Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77853, USA
| | - Christopher A Bailey
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences; the Department of Poultry Science, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77853, USA
| | - J Jill Heatley
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77853, USA
- Schubot Center for Avian Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77853, USA
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20
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Iyer ML, Guzman DSM, Sosa-Higareda M, Tarbert DK, McLarty E, Herman A, Alex CE. Multifocal Hepatocellular Carcinoma in a Malayan Wreathed Hornbill ( Rhyticeros undulatus). J Avian Med Surg 2024; 37:321-329. [PMID: 38363164 DOI: 10.1647/23-00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
A 30-year-old female intact Malayan wreathed hornbill (Rhyticeros undulatus) was presented for presumed nesting behavior, progressive anorexia, dropping food, and coelomic distension. A complete blood count and plasma biochemistry analysis revealed marked inflammation, severe electrolyte abnormalities, elevated liver enzyme activities and bile acids, and normal plasma iron concentrations. Radiographic images of the patient were consistent with hepatomegaly and loss of serosal detail in the coelomic cavity. A computed tomography study revealed multiple poorly contrast-enhancing hepatic nodules, hepatoperitoneal and intestinal peritoneal fluid and gas, and a contrast-enhancing mass in the ventral coelom. Cytologic samples of the liver were consistent with necrosis, and the coelomic effusion was characterized as an aseptic suppurative exudate. An exploratory coeliotomy was performed and biopsy samples of the liver and a mesenteric mass were histologically interpreted as a tubular carcinoma with metastasis to the liver and secondary portal hepatitis. Euthanasia was elected and multiple liver masses and a peripancreatic mass were identified on necropsy. Histopathological samples collected during the postmortem gross examination showed multiple well-demarcated hepatic masses consisting of neoplastic hepatocytes encapsulated by fibrous tissue and proliferation of dysplastic biliary ductules, as well as a peripancreatic heterophilic granuloma with adjacent pancreatic atrophy and ductular proliferation. Ultimately, the patient was diagnosed with multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma and chronic granulomatous and heterophilic pancreatitis, steatitis, and coelomitis with intralesional bacteria. Malignant hepatobiliary neoplasia has been poorly documented in hornbills despite high anecdotal incidence in this and other avian species predisposed to iron storage disease. This report illustrates clinical and pathological information, including advanced imaging, which could aid in the diagnosis of this condition in hornbills and other avian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya L Iyer
- William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | | | | | - Danielle K Tarbert
- William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Ehren McLarty
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Alex Herman
- University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA 95616, USA; and the Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital, Oakland, CA 94605, USA
| | - Charles E Alex
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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21
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OGASAWARA K, YAMADA N, NAKAYAMA SMM, WATANABE Y, SAITO K, CHIBA A, UCHIDA Y, UEDA K, TAKENAKA Y, KAZAMA K, KAZAMA M, YAMAGISHI J, MIZUKAWA H, IKENAKA Y, ISHIZUKA M. Surveys of eleven species of wild and zoo birds and feeding experiments in white-tailed eagles reveal differences in the composition of the avian gut microbiome based on dietary habits between and within species. J Vet Med Sci 2023; 85:1355-1365. [PMID: 37914278 PMCID: PMC10788175 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The composition of the gut microbiome varies due to dietary habits. We investigated influences of diet on the composition of the gut microbiome using the feces of 11 avian species, which consumed grain-, fish- and meat-based diets. We analyzed gut microbiome diversity and composition by next-generation sequencing (NGS) of 16S ribosomal RNA. The grain-diet group had higher gut microbiome diversity than the meat- and fish-diet group. The ratio of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes phyla was higher in the grain-diet group than in the meat- and fish-diet groups. The grain-diet group had a higher ratio of Veillonellaceae than the meat-diet group and a higher ratio of Eubacteriaceae than the fish-diet habit group. To clarify the influence of diet within the same species, white-tailed eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla, n=6) were divided into two groups, and given only deer meat or fish for approximately one month. The composition of the gut microbiome of individuals in both groups were analyzed by NGS. There were indications of fluctuation in the levels of some bacteria (Lactobacillus, Coriobacteriales, etc.) in each diet group. Moreover, one individual for each group which switched each diet in last week changed to each feature of composition of bacterial flora. The above results show that the composition of the gut microbiome differ depending on diet, even within the same species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei OGASAWARA
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Naoki YAMADA
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Shouta MM NAKAYAMA
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
- School of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Zambia,
Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Yukiko WATANABE
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, Kushiro Shitsugen
Wildlife Center, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Keisuke SAITO
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, Kushiro Shitsugen
Wildlife Center, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Akane CHIBA
- Research Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University,
Hokkaido, Japan
- Research Unit Comparative Microbiome Analysis, Helmholtz
Zentrum München, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, Neuherberg,
Germany
| | - Yoshitaka UCHIDA
- Research Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University,
Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Yasunori TAKENAKA
- Haboro Nature Conservation Office, Ministry of the
Environment, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kentaro KAZAMA
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Waseda University, Saitama,
Japan
| | - Mami KAZAMA
- Rishiri Natural History Institute, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Junya YAMAGISHI
- Division of Collaboration and Education, International
Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
- International Collaboration Unit, International Institute
for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Hazuki MIZUKAWA
- Department of Science and Technology for Biological
Resources and Environment, Graduate School of Agriculture, Ehime University, Ehime,
Japan
| | - Yoshinori IKENAKA
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
- Water Research Group, School of Environmental Sciences and
development, NorthWest University, Potchefstroom , South Africa
- Translational Research Unit, Veterinary Teaching Hospital,
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
- One Health Research Center, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido,
Japan
| | - Mayumi ISHIZUKA
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
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22
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Majumdar G, Liddle TA, Stewart C, Marshall CJ, Bain M, Stevenson T. FSHβ links photoperiodic signaling to seasonal reproduction in Japanese quail. eLife 2023; 12:RP87751. [PMID: 38150309 PMCID: PMC10752586 DOI: 10.7554/elife.87751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Annual cycles in daylength provide an initial predictive environmental cue that plants and animals use to time seasonal biology. Seasonal changes in photoperiodic information acts to entrain endogenous programs in physiology to optimize an animal's fitness. Attempts to identify the neural and molecular substrates of photoperiodic time measurement in birds have, to date, focused on blunt changes in light exposure during a restricted period of photoinducibility. The objectives of these studies were first to characterize a molecular seasonal clock in Japanese quail and second, to identify the key transcripts involved in endogenously generated interval timing that underlies photosensitivity in birds. We hypothesized that the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH) provides the neuroendocrine control of photoperiod-induced changes in reproductive physiology, and that the pars distalis of the pituitary gland contains an endogenous internal timer for the short photoperiod-dependent development of reproductive photosensitivity. Here, we report distinct seasonal waveforms of transcript expression in the MBH, and pituitary gland and discovered the patterns were not synchronized across tissues. Follicle-stimulating hormone-β (FSHβ) expression increased during the simulated spring equinox, prior to photoinduced increases in prolactin, thyrotropin-stimulating hormone-β, and testicular growth. Diurnal analyses of transcript expression showed sustained elevated levels of FSHβ under conditions of the spring equinox, compared to autumnal equinox, short (<12L) and long (>12L) photoperiods. FSHβ expression increased in quail held in non-stimulatory short photoperiod, indicative of the initiation of an endogenously programmed interval timer. These data identify that FSHβ establishes a state of photosensitivity for the external coincidence timing of seasonal physiology. The independent regulation of FSHβ expression provides an alternative pathway through which other supplementary environmental cues, such as temperature, can fine tune seasonal reproductive maturation and involution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Majumdar
- Department of Zoology, Science Campus, University of AllahabadPrayagrajIndia
| | - Timothy A Liddle
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
| | - Calum Stewart
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
| | - Christopher J Marshall
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
| | - Maureen Bain
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
| | - Tyler Stevenson
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine University of GlasgowGlasgowUnited Kingdom
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23
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Afonso CL, Afonso AM. Next-Generation Sequencing for the Detection of Microbial Agents in Avian Clinical Samples. Vet Sci 2023; 10:690. [PMID: 38133241 PMCID: PMC10747646 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10120690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Direct-targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS), with its undoubtedly superior diagnostic capacity over real-time PCR (RT-PCR), and direct-non-targeted NGS (ntNGS), with its higher capacity to identify and characterize multiple agents, are both likely to become diagnostic methods of choice in the future. tNGS is a rapid and sensitive method for precise characterization of suspected agents. ntNGS, also known as agnostic diagnosis, does not require a hypothesis and has been used to identify unsuspected infections in clinical samples. Implemented in the form of multiplexed total DNA metagenomics or as total RNA sequencing, the approach produces comprehensive and actionable reports that allow semi-quantitative identification of most of the agents present in respiratory, cloacal, and tissue samples. The diagnostic benefits of the use of direct tNGS and ntNGS are high specificity, compatibility with different types of clinical samples (fresh, frozen, FTA cards, and paraffin-embedded), production of nearly complete infection profiles (viruses, bacteria, fungus, and parasites), production of "semi-quantitative" information, direct agent genotyping, and infectious agent mutational information. The achievements of NGS in terms of diagnosing poultry problems are described here, along with future applications. Multiplexing, development of standard operating procedures, robotics, sequencing kits, automated bioinformatics, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) are disciplines converging toward the use of this technology for active surveillance in poultry farms. Other advances in human and veterinary NGS sequencing are likely to be adaptable to avian species in the future.
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24
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Yu C, Qiu M, Yin H, Zhang Z, Hu C, Jiang X, Du H, Li Q, Li J, Xiong X, Yang C, Liu Y. miR-138-5p promotes chicken granulosa cell apoptosis via targeting SIRT1. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:2449-2458. [PMID: 35792779 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2022.2095642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis is the main trigger of follicular atresia. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are 18-22 nt RNAs whose function is primarily determined by their extended seed region and are considered to be involved in the biological functions of follicular development, including follicular atresia, folliculogenesis, and oogenesis. MiR-138-5p is known to act on chicken GCs. In this study, we found that miR-138-5p was enriched in reproductive organs, such as the uterus and ovaries. To examine whether miR-138-5p could regulate the biological process of GCs, miR-138-5p was examined by transfection of cells with a mimic or inhibitor of miR-138-5p. Expression levels of caspase-3 and caspase-9 mRNA and protein were markedly increased or decreased after transfection of the mimic or inhibitor, respectively. Furthermore, following miR-138-5p inhibition, SIRT1, one of the target genes of miR-138-5p, was found to increase the mRNA, which is correlated with the increased levels of BCL2 expression, an anti-apoptotic gene in the chicken GCs. These results suggest that miR-138-5p promotes apoptosis in chicken GCs by targeting SIRT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlin Yu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mohan Qiu
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Huadong Yin
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zengrong Zhang
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chenming Hu
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaosong Jiang
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Huarui Du
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qingyun Li
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingjing Li
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xia Xiong
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chaowu Yang
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Animal Science Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yiping Liu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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25
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da Costa Machado P, da Motta Lima CF, Ramos PL, Chagas CRF, Borges Salgado PA. Establishing hematologic and biochemical reference intervals for the endangered Lear's macaw (Anodorhynchus leari). Vet Clin Pathol 2023; 52:749-754. [PMID: 37872119 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Lear's macaw, Anodorhynchus leari (Psittaciformes, Psittacidae), is an endemic species of the Caatinga region in Brazil. With only a few free-living individuals that are constantly under threat from agricultural clearance, hunting, and trapping, A. leari is classified as "endangered" by the Red Book of Endangered Brazilian Fauna and by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. At the same time, the number of individuals in captivity has been growing due to the efforts of biologists and veterinarians in zoological parks to reproduce this species. Thus, having species-specific reference intervals for hematologic and biochemical measurands is essential to assess the health status of these captive and wild birds and guarantee their reproductive success. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine reference intervals for hematologic and biochemical measurands for A. leari kept in captivity in São Paulo Zoo, Brazil. METHODS Blood samples from 32 individuals were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Only samples from adults and healthy individuals were included in this study. All statistical analyses were performed according to the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology guidelines and available literature. RESULTS Reference values and reference intervals were determined for the captive population of Anodorhynchus leari. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to establish reference intervals for A. leari, which can aid the veterinarian in the interpretation of laboratory test results, helping in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of diseases of this endangered species of Brazilian fauna.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Carolina Romeiro Fernandes Chagas
- Applied Research Department, São Paulo Zoological Park Foundation, São Paulo, Brazil
- P. B. Šivickis Laboratory of Parasitology, Nature Research Centre, Vilnius, Lithuania
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26
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Girolamo ND, Studer K, Brandão J, Kanda I, Wagner RA, Fracassi F, Fecteau K. Diagnosis and Long-term Treatment of Suspected Congenital Hypothyroidism in a Pigeon ( Columba livia domestica). J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:282-287. [PMID: 37962321 DOI: 10.1647/avms-d-22-00064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
An approximately 6-month-old domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica) was presented for lethargy and an inability to perform its first molt. The pigeon was obese, had anatomical characteristics of a chick, including cere and plumage, and had a ventral coelomic soft tissue mass. Initial blood work was unremarkable. A computed tomographic scan confirmed excessive fat deposition in the coelom and a mass adherent to the liver. A fine-needle aspirate of the mass indicated fat accumulation. A thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test was planned for this pigeon and 3 presumed euthyroid pigeons. Each pigeon was administered 80 µg (∼230 µg/kg) of recombinant human TSH. Blood was drawn at time 0 and 3 and 6 hours after administration of recombinant human TSH. Plasma total thyroxine (TT4) was measured in duplicate with an in-house analyzer and a reference laboratory. After recombinant human TSH administration, healthy pigeons showed a 4- to 21-fold increase in TT4, whereas the hypothyroid pigeon had all values <0.12 µg/dL. The pigeon was prescribed 20 µg of compounded levothyroxine twice daily. In the following months, the pigeon molted and developed adult features. The ventral coelomic soft tissue mass disappeared and repeated computed tomography scans showed a decreased amount of body fat and a reduction in the size of the coelomic mass. Levothyroxine was further adjusted multiple times according to additional TT4 testing to a dose of 2.5 µg once daily. The pigeon has been under treatment with levothyroxine for more than 2 years. Here we present the first reported case of confirmed hypothyroidism in a pigeon. Diagnosis with a TSH stimulation test was unequivocal, even when only considering the results of the in-house analyzer. Levothyroxine treatment resolved clinical signs and could be titrated to an appropriate dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Di Girolamo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA,
| | - Kelsea Studer
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - João Brandão
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Ian Kanda
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Robert A Wagner
- Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, USA
| | - Federico Fracassi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 43, 40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Kellie Fecteau
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
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27
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Sutherland M, Luk K, Courtman N, Ploeg R. Survey of the Clinical, Cytological, and Histopathological Features Associated with Neoplasms in Captive Avian Species in Melbourne, Australia. J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:243-265. [PMID: 37962318 DOI: 10.1647/20-00056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Over a 3.5-year period, tissue samples from 141 companion and aviary birds with clinically suspected, naturally occurring solid neoplasms were collected via surgical biopsy (n = 53) or at necropsy examination (n = 88) from a population of birds presenting to an avian veterinary clinic in Melbourne, Australia. Neoplastic processes were identified in 73.7% (n = 104) of samples, with 83.7% (n = 87) being interpreted as malignant neoplasia and 16.3% (n = 17) being interpreted as benign neoplasia. The overall estimated prevalence of neoplasia in the study population (n = 5125) was 2.45% (95% confidence interval, 2-2.97%). The gastrointestinal and reproductive tracts were the most commonly affected systems. The most common presenting signs were nonspecific and included lethargy, coelomic distension, and inappetence. In 59 cases, fine-needle aspirates (FNAs) and impression smears were also obtained and evaluated cytologically. The accuracy of cytology for detecting neoplasia in birds and for determining whether a neoplastic process was benign or malignant was assessed by using histopathology as the "gold standard." There was complete agreement between the cytological and histopathological diagnoses in 72.8% (43/59) of cases. Cytology correctly identified 87.5% of these cases (35/40) as malignant neoplasms and 55.6% (5/9) as benign processes. There was no significant difference between the use of cytology and histopathology for the detection of malignant neoplasia in birds (P = 0.185). The accuracies of FNAs and impression smears for examining avian tumors were also compared. Overall, the best cell preservation was obtained by performing impression smears from tissues, with 62.2% (n = 28) returning high cellularity for cytological examination, compared to 53.8% (n = 14) when samples were obtained by FNA. This study provides an overview of the types and prevalence of neoplasms in a captive bird population from Australia, correlates physical examination findings with tumor types, and provides evidence that cytology is a reliable preliminary diagnostic tool for detecting neoplasia in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathy Luk
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Natalie Courtman
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Richard Ploeg
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
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28
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Leclerc A, Goddard N, Graillot O, Brunet A, Mulot B. Retrospective Study of Intertarsal Joint Inflammation in Avian Species From a Zoological Institution. J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:235-242. [PMID: 37962317 DOI: 10.1647/d-22-00054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed to measure the prevalence of avian intertarsal inflammation over a 5-year period, identify risk factors, and discuss treatment options. The authors hypothesized that: 1) long-legged birds would be more affected, 2) participation in a bird show would be a significant risk factor, and 3) young animals would be more frequently affected. Thirty-five clinical cases from 9 avian orders were included in the study. Statistical analysis indicated that the orders Ciconiiformes (9/150; 6%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.2-11), Gruiformes (4/132; 3%, 95% CI: 1.2-7.5), and Pelecaniformes (7/152; 2.8%, 95% CI: 1.4-5.6) were significantly more affected than other orders (P < 0.01). Similarly, long-legged birds (21/35) had 9.8 times greater chance (P < 0.001, 95% CI: 4.7-21) of developing the condition compared with other birds. Participation in a free-flight show (22/35) was a significant risk factor (P < 0.001; odds ratio: 7.0, 95% CI: 3.3-15). Mean age at onset of clinical signs was 5.7 years, and being < 2 years-of-age during the study period was not a significant predictor of disease (P = 0.054). The tibial cartilage, a fragile fibrocartilaginous structure, was frequently affected (34%, 12/35). Treatment protocols included anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesic drugs, or both (94%, 33/35), low-level laser therapy (54%, 19/35), joint immobilization (34%, 12/35), intra-articular corticoid injections (20%, 7/35), surgical stabilization (17%, 6/35), physiotherapy (9%, 3/35), intra-articular hyaluronic acid (6%, 2/35) or platelet-rich plasma (3%, 1/35) injections, and chiropractic care (3%, 1/35). Overall recovery rate was 49% (17/35), and the condition was associated with a poor prognosis in chronic cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Leclerc
- ZooParc de Beauval and Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan, France,
| | - Nicolas Goddard
- ZooParc de Beauval and Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Océane Graillot
- ZooParc de Beauval and Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Alice Brunet
- ZooParc de Beauval and Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Baptiste Mulot
- ZooParc de Beauval and Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan, France
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29
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Froehlich F, Forbes N, Carrasco DC, Ludynia K, Parsons NJ, Worsfold RD, Dutton T. The Effects of Critical Care Nutrition on Weight Gain in African Penguin ( Spheniscus demersus) Chicks. J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:217-225. [PMID: 37962315 DOI: 10.1647/d-20-00101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Nutritional support in malnourished animals is an essential aspect of wildlife rehabilitation; this support is especially relevant when providing lifesaving nutrition to endangered species such as the African penguin (Spheniscus demersus). This study investigated the short-term effects of a commercially available, semi-elemental, critical care diet compared with a hand-made fish formula. Twenty-one African penguin chicks were selected on admission to the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Costal Birds in Cape Town, South Africa, in November 2015. Initial assessment included body weight, a full clinical exam, white blood cell count, packed cell volume, and total plasma protein. Ten animals received the commercial critical care diet, whereas a control group of 11 animals were fed hand-made formula for the 2-week study period. All animals were weighed daily and blood sampling was repeated after 14 days. The median weight of both groups increased significantly over 14 days (critical care diet χ2 = 10.1, P = 0.002; control χ2 = 7.4, P = 0.006). The difference was not significant between the groups for start weight (χ2 = 0.1, P = 0.725) or end weight (χ2 = 0, P = 1.000) and was not significantly different in the change over time for either absolute numbers (χ2 = 1.7, P = 0.193) or percent gain (χ2 = 0.8, P = 0.36). The values for packed cell volume, total plasma protein, and white blood cell count increased in all animals after the 14-day study period was complete. On the basis of the results of this study, it was determined that the differing diets led to similar weight gain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Froehlich
- University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Avian and Reptile Service, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria,
| | - Neil Forbes
- Vulture Alliance, International Centre of Birds of Prey, Bousldon House, Newent GL18 1JJ, United Kingdom
| | | | - Katta Ludynia
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds, Cape Town 7441, South Africa
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7701, South Africa
| | - Nola J Parsons
- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds, Cape Town 7441, South Africa
| | | | - Tom Dutton
- Great Western Exotics, Unit 10-16 Berkshire House, County Park Business Park, Swindon SN12NR, United Kingdom
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30
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Abraham ME, Wakamatsu N, Lossie GA, Karcher DM, Heng HG, Murakami M. Computed tomographic and magnetic resonance imaging anatomy of the coelomic cavity in market-age commercial Pekin Ducks (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus). Anat Histol Embryol 2023; 52:843-861. [PMID: 37357377 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 27 million ducks are raised commercially in the US each year and Pekin ducks (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) are the most commonly raised breed. Additionally, an increasing number of Americans are raising small flocks of poultry, which often include ducks, in their own backyards. This creates a need to better understand the imaging anatomy of ducks. However, in avian species, superimposition of organs limits evaluation of the coelomic cavity using the most common imaging modality, radiography. The use of cross-sectional imaging including computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has increased in veterinary medicine research and clinical use. An anatomic atlas is essential for guiding research and diagnostic imaging. To date, no CT or MRI atlas exists for Pekin ducks. The purpose of the study is to generate a CT atlas of market-age Pekin ducks as well as CT attenuation values and measurements of coelomic organs with corresponding gross and MRI images. A total of 20 market-age, commercial Pekin ducks were imaged. Five male and five female ducks were imaged with CT; four of these ten ducks, two male and two female, were frozen and sliced in approximately 5 mm transverse sections for gross anatomic reference images. Six additional ducks, three male and three female ducks, were dissected to measure major organs. Four additional ducks were imaged using CT and MRI and necropsied for gross anatomical comparisons and landmarks. The atlas contained here may be used for future research projects and clinically to aid in diagnosis of disease in ducks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meagan E Abraham
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Nobuko Wakamatsu
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology/ADDL, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Geoffrey A Lossie
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology/ADDL, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Darrin M Karcher
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Hock Gan Heng
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Masahiro Murakami
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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31
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Coleman JL, Wyffels JT, Penfold LM, Richardson D, Maddox JD. Development of genetic markers for reproductive management of toucans. Zoo Biol 2023; 42:825-833. [PMID: 37338091 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Retention of genetic diversity in successive generations is key to successful ex situ programs and will become increasingly important to restore wild populations of threatened animals. When animal genealogy is partly unknown or gaps exist in studbook records, the application of molecular resources facilitates informed breeding. Here, we apply molecular resources to an ex situ breeding population of toucans (Ramphastidae), a bird family zoos commonly maintain. Toucans face population declines from illegal poaching and habitat degradation. We developed novel microsatellite markers using blood samples from 15 Keel-billed Toucans (Ramphastos sulfuratus Lesson 1830). Parentage of two individuals was known a priori, but possible sibship among 13 putative founders-including the parents-was unknown. We compared available avian heterologous and novel microsatellite markers to recover known relationships and reconstruct sibship. Eight of 61 heterologous markers amplified consistently and were polymorphic, but less so than the 18 novel markers. Known sibship (and three sibling pairs whose relatedness was unknown a priori) and paternity-though not maternity except in one case-were well-recovered using both likelihood and pairwise relatedness methods, when incorporating novel but not heterologous markers. Zoo researchers seeking microsatellite primer sets for their breeding toucan populations will likely benefit from our heterologous markers, which can be leveraged both to assess relatedness and select breeding pairs. We recommend that zoo biologists rely on species-specific primers and not optimize heterologous primers for toucan species without molecular resources. We conclude with a brief discussion of modern genotyping methods of interest to zoo researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey L Coleman
- Negaunee Integrative Research Center, Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Jennifer T Wyffels
- Center for Bioinformatics & Computational Biology, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
- Ripley's Aquariums, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Linda M Penfold
- South-East Zoo Alliance for Reproduction & Conservation, Yulee, Florida, USA
| | | | - J Dylan Maddox
- Negaunee Integrative Research Center, Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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32
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Raghav R, Narayanannair V, Samour J. Correction of a Hyperflexed Hallux in a Saker Falcon ( Falco cherrug) by Hemisectioning the Deep Digital Flexor Tendon. J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:275-281. [PMID: 37962320 DOI: 10.1647/22-00062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
A 3-year-old male saker falcon (Falco cherrug) was presented with a history of hyperflexion of the first digit of the left pelvic limb with what appeared to be a hypercontracted distal end of the deep digital flexor tendon (m. flexor hallucis longus). Conservative treatment, bandaging, and splinting techniques failed to resolve the hypercontraction of the deep digital flexor tendon and improve digit function. Intraoperatively, the deep digital flexor tendon was found to have formed adhesions with the tendon sheath as well as the bone and soft tissue structures underneath it, impeding its ability to move freely within the tendon sheath. The adhesions were surgically resolved, and the tendon was lengthened by hemisectioning the deep digital flexor tendon at its distal end. Postsurgically, the digit was maintained in an extended position by bandaging. Mild physiotherapy was provided at 5-day intervals to retain function and prevent adhesions. Digit extensibility and function were restored to nearly normal levels after 4 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj Raghav
- Bahrain Falcon Hospital, Zallaq, Kingdom of Bahrain,
| | | | - Jaime Samour
- Bahrain Falcon Hospital, Zallaq, Kingdom of Bahrain
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Beaufrère H, Barboza T, Burnett A, Stark KD, Wood RD. Effects of Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin on Blood Lipids in Quaker Parrots ( Myiopsitta monachus). J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:199-208. [PMID: 37962313 DOI: 10.1647/22-00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Statin drugs are the most effective class of hypolipidemic and antiatherosclerotic drugs, with atorvastatin and rosuvastatin being the most effective. While the use of statins would be a tremendous asset in the treatment of dyslipidemia and lipid-accumulation disorders in birds, there are only limited data available regarding their use and effectiveness in psittacine species. Two consecutive randomized crossover trials on Quaker parrots (Myiopsitta monachus) were performed to study the effect of atorvastatin and rosuvastatin. Ten birds were used in an initial balanced crossover experiment with 5 oral treatments (control; atorvastatin 10 mg/kg q12h and q24h; rosuvastatin 10 mg/kg q12h and q24h) for 2 weeks each. Plasma lipidomics and lipoprotein profiling were performed after each treatment. Twelve birds were used in a second experiment consisting of 2 parallel crossover studies, each with 6 birds either fed their regular diet or a 0.3% cholesterol diet. In the 2 parallel crossover studies, the treatment group was administered atorvastatin 20 mg/kg orally q12h and the control group a placebo suspension orally q12h. Plasma lipidomics, lipoprotein profiles, and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase activity were subsequently measured. Results were analyzed with serial linear mixed models and trends were assessed graphically. No statistically significant effect of any statin treatment was detected on plasma lipids, lipoproteins, creatinine kinase, or HMG-CoA reductase activity. In the first trial, all the rosuvastatin treatments led to some nonsignificant decreases in several triacylglycerol species, while in the second trial this was only observed in the birds on atorvastatin 20 mg/kg q12h being fed their regular diet. Quaker parrots may require much higher doses of statin drugs to show significant and clinically useful lipid-lowering effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugues Beaufrère
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA,
| | - Trinita Barboza
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01536, USA
| | - Alysha Burnett
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - Ken D Stark
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G1
| | - R Darren Wood
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
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Lamb SK, Olsen GH, Pilny A. Four Different Surgical Approaches to Vasectomies in Male Texas Bobwhite Quail ( Colinus virginianus texanus) and Northern Bobwhite Quail ( Colinus virginianus). J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:226-234. [PMID: 37962316 DOI: 10.1647/2021-0132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Vasectomies render a male sterile and have been used for various management purposes, including conservation efforts. This report evaluated 4 different surgical approaches (external approach, internal approach with dissection, internal approach with cautery, and internal approach caudally) to perform 177 vasectomies in Texas bobwhite (Colinus virginianus texanus; n = 171) and northern bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus; n = 6) in a field setting. Birds were not randomized into groups for the different approaches. Survival was recorded in 83% (147/177) of the birds. The most common cause of death was hemorrhage from the common iliac vein due to damage during the surgical procedure. Other causes for death included transection of the ureter, parasitism, euthanasia, and undetermined causes. The approach that had the highest survival rate (89.8%, 132/147) was the internal approach with cautery, and based on these results the authors recommend this approach for vasectomies in Texas and northern bobwhite quail.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Glenn H Olsen
- US Geological Survey Eastern Ecological Science Center, Laurel, MD 20708, USA
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35
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Thorel M, Roman Y, Leclerc A. Influence of Freezing Temperature, Freezing Duration, and Repeated Freeze/Thaw Cycles on Electrophoretic Profiles in the White Stork ( Ciconia ciconia). J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:266-274. [PMID: 37962319 DOI: 10.1647/22-00051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Plasma electrophoresis is an ancillary diagnostic tool in avian medicine, with agarose gel electrophoresis (AGE) and capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) being the most common techniques. Frozen samples can be used for quantitative studies or comparative diagnostic purposes, but stability of avian plasma proteins under freezing is poorly described. To evaluate the influence of plasma freezing on electrophoretograms in white storks (Ciconia ciconia), heparin blood was sampled from 30 individuals during annual health examinations. Plasma samples were obtained after centrifugation of fresh samples and divided into aliquots. Both AGE and CZE were performed on fresh aliquots. The remaining aliquots were frozen at -20°C (-4°F) or -180°C (-292°F) and thawed following different protocols: 1 freeze/thaw cycle after 6 months at -20°C; 1, 2, 4, and 7 cycles over 12 months at -20°C; and 1 cycle after 18 months at -180°C. For both techniques, electrophoretic profiles obtained from these thawed aliquots were compared to fresh electrophoretograms. Quantitatively, significant differences (P < 0.05) in most fractions were seen from 6 months postfreezing at -20°C for both techniques. Fewer statistically significant differences were observed after 18 months under cryogenic preservation (-180°C). Qualitatively, AGE provided more repeatable and stable results than CZE over time on samples stored at -20°C, and electrophoretograms were stable after 18 months of cryogenic storage. An electromigration distortion associated with freezing was seen with CZE only. Plasma samples stored in a conventional freezer (-20°C) should not be compared to fresh plasma. For quantitative studies, cryogenic storage should be privileged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan Thorel
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Yannick Roman
- Le Parc de Clères, Département de Seine Maritime, 76690 Clères, France
| | - Antoine Leclerc
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, 41110 Saint-Aignan, France,
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Monopoli MR, Guzman DSM, Paul-Murphy J, Beaufrère H, Hawkins MG. Evaluation of Thermal Antinociceptive Effects of Intramuscular Hydromorphone Hydrochloride in Great Horned Owls ( Bubo virginianus). J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:209-216. [PMID: 37962314 DOI: 10.1647/jams-d-22-00063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Across the Americas, great horned owls (Bubo virginianus) are often presented to veterinarians for conditions requiring pain management. Although recent studies have evaluated opioid drugs in raptor species, information in Strigiformes is lacking. The objective of this study was to evaluate the analgesic effect and duration of action of hydromorphone hydrochloride, a full µ-opioid receptor agonist, in great horned owls. In a randomized, blinded, balanced crossover study, 6 adult birds (5 females and 1 male) received hydromorphone (0.3 and 0.6 mg/kg) or saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (0.03 mL/kg; control) in the left pectoral muscle, with a 7-day washout interval between treatments. Each bird was assigned an agitation-sedation score, and the thermal foot withdrawal threshold (TFWT) was measured at predetermined times before (t = 0 hours) and after treatment administration (t = 0.5, 1.5, 3, and 6 hours). Measurements of the TFWT were obtained with a test box equipped with a thermal perch, which delivered a gradually increasing temperature 40-62°C (104-143.6°F) to the right plantar surface of the owl's foot. Compared with controls, hydromorphone at 0.3 mg/kg dose resulted in significantly higher mean TFWT at 0.5 hours (P < 0.001), 1.5 hours (P = 0.003), and 3 hours (P = 0.005), whereas the 0.6 mg/kg dose resulted in significantly higher mean TFWT from 0.5 hours (P = 0.035) to 1.5 hours (P = 0.001). Both hydromorphone doses were associated with a significant change in the agitation-sedation score (P = 0.001), consistent with mild to moderate sedation. Two owls were observed tremoring after administration of the 0.6 mg/kg dose, which was not noted after the 0.5-hour timepoint; no other adverse effects were identified. This study offers scientific evidence to support the use of a µ-opioid agonist in great horned owls for pain management. Pharmacokinetics and other pharmacodynamic studies of other pain models evaluating hydromorphone and other opioid drugs in this species are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa Rae Monopoli
- University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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Foss KD, Keller KA, Reich SK, Franzen-Klein D, Scott D, Sosa-Higareda M, Hague DW, Whittington J, Allender MC. An avian Modified Glasgow Coma Scale as a prognostic indicator in raptors with head trauma. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2023; 261:1-8. [PMID: 37481254 DOI: 10.2460/javma.23.05.0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a Modified Glasgow Coma Scale (MGCS) for use in raptors presenting with head trauma and assess the agreement of the MGCS scores between examiners with varying backgrounds, and to assess the prognostic value of the avian MGCS in raptors with head trauma. ANIMALS 156 native raptorial species. METHODS All raptors received an MGCS assessment within 8 hours of their presentation, between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2019. For the first objective, the assessment was performed by a veterinary student, a wildlife veterinarian, and a board-certified or resident veterinary neurologist. Each animal received a score in 3 categories (motor activity, level of consciousness, and brain stem reflexes) and an overall score. For the second objective, the MGCS scoring was performed by the intaking clinical team member and survival after 48 hours was documented. RESULTS Agreement between the 3 individual scores was assessed via Cronbach α and intraclass correlation. There was excellent-good agreement in all 3 assessment categories as well as the overall score. Univariate associations between survival and demographic factors were determined using the χ2 test. Overall, raptors with a total MGCS of < 10 were less likely to survive than those with a score > 12. CLINICAL RELEVANCE An avian-specific MGCS demonstrated good-excellent agreement among raters of various backgrounds in assessing raptors with head trauma. Additionally, this study showed that an avian-specific MGCS may be correlated with the probability of survival within the first 48 hours after presentation to rehabilitation facilities in raptors with head trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari D Foss
- 1Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Krista A Keller
- 1Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
- 2Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Sarah K Reich
- 1Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Dana Franzen-Klein
- 3The Raptor Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN
| | | | - Mariana Sosa-Higareda
- 5William T. Pritchard Veterinary Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Devon W Hague
- 1Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Julia Whittington
- 1Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
| | - Matthew C Allender
- 1Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
- 2Wildlife Epidemiology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
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Kumar P, Redel U, Lang T, Korsching SI, Behrens M. Bitter taste receptors of the zebra finch ( Taeniopygia guttata). Front Physiol 2023; 14:1233711. [PMID: 37860623 PMCID: PMC10582322 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1233711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the important role of bitter taste for the rejection of potentially harmful food sources, birds have long been suspected to exhibit inferior bitter tasting abilities. Although more recent reports on the bitter recognition spectra of several bird species have cast doubt about the validity of this assumption, the bitter taste of avian species is still an understudied field. Previously, we reported the bitter activation profiles of three zebra finch receptors Tas2r5, -r6, and -r7, which represent orthologs of a single chicken bitter taste receptor, Tas2r1. In order to get a better understanding of the bitter tasting capabilities of zebra finches, we selected another Tas2r gene of this species that is similar to another chicken Tas2r. Using functional calcium mobilization experiments, we screened zebra finch Tas2r1 with 72 bitter compounds and observed responses for 7 substances. Interestingly, all but one of the newly identified bitter agonists were different from those previously identified for Tas2r5, -r6, and -r7 suggesting that the newly investigated receptor fills important gaps in the zebra finch bitter recognition profile. The most potent bitter agonist found in our study is cucurbitacin I, a highly toxic natural bitter substance. We conclude that zebra finch exhibits an exquisitely developed bitter taste with pronounced cucurbitacin I sensitivity suggesting a prominent ecological role of this compound for zebra finch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Kumar
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Ulrike Redel
- German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Nuthetal, Germany
| | - Tatjana Lang
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | | | - Maik Behrens
- Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke, Nuthetal, Germany
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Navara KJ, Mendonça MT, Gardner S. Dietary yolk supplements and rate of yolk deposition do not influence sex ratios in Japanese Quail. J Exp Zool A Ecol Integr Physiol 2023; 339:749-754. [PMID: 37366001 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Birds appear to have the ability to bias offspring sex ratios in response to environmental and social conditions. The mechanisms responsible remain unknown, however one previous study indicated a link between rates of ovarian follicle growth and the sexes of resulting eggs. This could indicate that either follicles destined to retain male or female follicles grow at different rates, or the rate of ovarian follicle growth determines the sex chromosome that will be retained to influence the sex of the resulting offspring. We tested for evidence of both possibilities by staining yolk rings that are indicative of daily growth. First, we tested for a correlation between the number of yolk rings and the sexes of the resulting germinal discs collected from each egg, and second, we tested whether experimentally decreasing follicle growth rates with a dietary yolk supplement impacts the sexes of the resulting germinal discs. There was no significant correlation between the number of yolk rings and the sexes of the resulting embryos, and decreasing follicle growth rates did not impact sexes of resulting germinal discs. These results indicate that offspring sex is not related to the rate of ovarian follicle growth in quail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen J Navara
- Department of Poultry Science, The University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Mary T Mendonça
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Steven Gardner
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
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Marek RD. A surrogate forelimb: Evolution, function and development of the avian cervical spine. J Morphol 2023; 284:e21638. [PMID: 37708511 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The neck is a critical portion of the avian spine, one that works in tandem with the beak to act as a surrogate forelimb and allows birds to manipulate their surroundings despite the lack of a grasping capable hand. Birds display an incredible amount of diversity in neck morphology across multiple anatomical scales-from varying cervical counts down to intricate adaptations of individual vertebrae. Despite this morphofunctional disparity, little is known about the drivers of this enormous variation, nor how neck evolution has shaped avian macroevolution. To promote interest in this system, I review the development, function and evolution of the avian cervical spine. The musculoskeletal anatomy, basic kinematics and development of the avian neck are all documented, but focus primarily upon commercially available taxa. In addition, recent work has quantified the drivers of extant morphological variation across the avian neck, as well as patterns of integration between the neck and other skeletal elements. However, the evolutionary history of the avian cervical spine, and its contribution to the diversification and success of modern birds is currently unknown. Future work should aim to broaden our understanding of the cervical anatomy, development and kinematics to include a more diverse selection of extant birds, while also considering the macroevolutionary drivers and consequences of this important section of the avian spine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D Marek
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Centre for Integrative Anatomy, University College London, London, UK
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Woods SJ, Hughes-Medlicott NJ, McDowell A. Pharmacokinetics in Penguins Compared to Other Avian Species: A Review of Enrofloxacin and Voriconazole. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:4430-4442. [PMID: 37579225 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Australasia is home to unique and endangered avian species. Drug administration to this group of animal patients for prophylaxis and treatment is challenging from a number of different perspectives. A key limitation for optimal drug dosing in birds is the lack of published pharmacokinetic studies to guide dose requirements. The aim of this review was to systematically investigate published literature on pharmacokinetics in penguin species and compare that with the pharmacokinetics of other avian species with a focus on two drugs: enrofloxacin and voriconazole. The review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A systematic literature search was performed in Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. A key finding is that penguin pharmacokinetics differs from other avian species, with weight-adjusted AUC and Cmax values higher than most other avian species (e.g., for enrofloxacin, the AUC in the African penguin is 85.7 μg h/mL, which is more than double the other bird species). Doses for some avian species may be successfully extrapolated from other avian species; however, it appears important to consider factors other than just body weight (e.g., clearance mechanism and drug physicochemical characteristics). Consequently, there is an important need for robust pharmacokinetic data in wildlife species to ensure optimal therapy for this special group of patients. As part of this review, we identify key aspects that should be considered when estimating dose in species for which there is limited pharmacokinetic information available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey J Woods
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | | | - Arlene McDowell
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
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Short E, Owen M, Vallee E, Bolwell C, Morgan KJ. Ultrasonographic features of the regressing yolk sac of normal captive Brown kiwi chicks (Apteryx mantelli) vary with age. Vet Radiol Ultrasound 2023; 64:945-956. [PMID: 37614191 DOI: 10.1111/vru.13280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Brown kiwi (Apteryx mantelli) are a culturally significant ratite species endemic to New Zealand. Chicks can develop diseases of the yolk sac which can be fatal if not promptly recognized and treated. Ultrasound examination of the yolk sac is an important component in the evaluation of chicks with suspected yolk sac disease. However, there are currently no reports of the normal ultrasonographic appearance of the regressing yolk sac in this species. The objective of this prospective reference interval study was to describe the normal ultrasonographic appearance of the yolk sac in brown kiwi chicks. Focused coelomic sonographic examinations were performed on 29 healthy chicks from >1 day of age until the yolk sac was completely absorbed or was <1 mL in volume. 41.6% (57/137) of yolks were round/ovoid in shape and 58.6% (80/137) had lobulated margins with invaginations. All yolks (137/137) were hyperechoic relative to adjacent coelomic structures. The heterogeneity of the echogenicity of the yolk was significantly associated with age (increased heterogeneity in younger birds) and was homogeneous, mildly heterogeneous, and moderately heterogeneous in 33% (46/138), 46% (63/138), and 21% (29/138) of all examinations respectively. Intrasac anechoic pockets were seen in 14% (20/139) of yolk sacs. The rate of yolk sac resorption slowed with age. In all examinations identifying a completely absorbed yolk sac or a yolk sac <1 mL in volume, chicks were less than 21 days old. The results of this study provide a reference of normal for the sonographic appearance of the yolk sac in captive brown kiwi chicks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Short
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
- Radiology department of the Massey University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, NZRadVet, Feilding, New Zealand
| | - Mark Owen
- Radiology department of the Massey University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, NZRadVet, Feilding, New Zealand
| | - Emilie Vallee
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Charlotte Bolwell
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Kerri J Morgan
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Cococcetta C, Coutant T, Bagur S, Wernick MB, Huynh M. Use of Digital Stethoscope to Measure Heart Rate in Birds: Comparison of Different Counting Methods Using Phonocardiograms. J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:108-117. [PMID: 37733450 DOI: 10.1647/22-00047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
The high cardiac contractility of birds poses a challenge to traditional cardiac auscultation, particularly for the accurate determination of heart rate (HR). The objectives of this study were to 1) evaluate the feasibility of using phonocardiograms of adequate length and quality to assess HR in different avian species with a commercially available digital stethoscope, 2) compare 5 counting methods, including 2 direct reading methods (manual counting and using a semiautomatic computerized algorithm as a reference method) and 3 listening methods (progressive mental counting, counting by 10s, and counting with a smartphone application tap counter), and 3) obtain the HR in selected birds and identify a correlation between body weight and HR in different avian species. An inverse correlation on a logarithmic scale was identified between the mean body weight and HR in 60 different bird species (n = 211; R = -0.72, P < 0.0001). Manual reading of phonocardiograms was the most reliable method and had the highest agreement with the reference method; this was followed by the counting by 10s method, the tapping method, and the progressive mental counting method, which was the least reliable. The agreement levels for the different methods were comparable for HRs <200 beats per minute (bpm) in birds weighing >1 kg. For HRs >500 bpm in birds weighing <150 g, only the reading method maintained a good agreement level. A digital stethoscope can be a useful tool for accurately determining the HR in birds, including very small species with high HRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciro Cococcetta
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94250 Gentilly, France, cirocococ@ gmail.com
| | - Thomas Coutant
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94250 Gentilly, France
| | - Sophie Bagur
- Institut de l'Audition, Institut Pasteur, 75012 Paris, France
| | | | - Minh Huynh
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94250 Gentilly, France
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Cococcetta C, Coutant T, Phouratsamay A, Zoller G, Bagur S, Huynh M. Effect of Hooding on Physiological Parameters During Manual Restraint in Rhode Island Red Hybrid Hens ( Gallus gallus domesticus). J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:155-164. [PMID: 37733454 DOI: 10.1647/21-00027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Manual handling of chickens is required for many veterinary, research, and breeding procedures. This study aimed to assess the changes in physiological parameters over time during manual restraint of chickens, as well as the effect of hooding on these parameters. Heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, and body temperature were measured every 3 minutes for 15 minutes during manual restraint in 13 adult laying hens (Gallus gallus domesticus). Heart rate variability was significantly higher in hooded hens than in nonhooded hens (P= 0.003) but was not significant over time. Hooded hens were also found to have significantly lower heart rate (P = 0.043) and respiratory rate (P = 0.042) compared to nonhooded hens. Heart rate and respiratory rate significantly decreased over time, independent of the use of the hood (P = 0.008; P = 0.01, respectively). Temperature was found to increase significantly (P = 0.001) over time for both groups. Overall, hooding increased heart rate variability, a factor associated with a lower stress level, and decreased heart rate and respiratory rate. In conclusion, these data suggest that the use of the hood reduces stress levels in birds during manual restraint. Therefore, the use of the hood is encouraged for short (less than 15 minutes) painless procedures, such as physical examination or radiographic acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciro Cococcetta
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94110 Arcueil, France,
| | - Thomas Coutant
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94110 Arcueil, France
| | - Albert Phouratsamay
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94110 Arcueil, France
| | - Graham Zoller
- Unité des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie, Clinique Vétérinaire Only Vet, 69800 Saint-Priest, France
| | - Sophie Bagur
- Institut de l'Audition, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Minh Huynh
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie, Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Frégis, 94110 Arcueil, France
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Coutant T, Cococcetta C, Phouratsamay A, Touzet C, Zoller G, Huynh M. Radiographic Measurements of Internal Organs in Rhode Island Red Hybrid Hens ( Gallus gallus domesticus) and Their Evolution During Egg Formation. J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:132-143. [PMID: 37733452 DOI: 10.1647/20-00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Backyard poultry hens are becoming very popular as pets, and thus the demand for treating the individual chicken is increasing. Few basic diagnostic techniques commonly used in small animal practice have been evaluated in this species. At the moment, there is no study in backyard hens describing radiographic measurements of internal organs contrary to psittacine birds or birds of prey. Moreover, the effect of egg laying on these measurements has not been studied in avian species even though it could affect radiographic measurements depending on the stage of egg formation. This is of particular concern in laying hens since they are able to lay on a daily basis. Thirteen adult hens and 3 juvenile Rhode Island red hybrid hens (Gallus gallus domesticus) were used to evaluate which organs can be reliably measured and to provide preliminary reference values for clinically healthy chickens. Additionally, whole body radiographs were collected every 2 hours over 24 hours in 5 adult hens to study the evolution of these measurements throughout egg formation. Organs that could be clearly delimitated on radiographs were measured, and the only organs that could be reliably measured were the heart and liver silhouettes. These measurements were significantly higher in adult compared to juvenile hens (P = 0.024). Among the different organ ratios, heart width: total liver width ratio was the only significantly different measurement and was higher in juvenile hens (P = 0.024). Hepatic silhouette measurements and ratios were found to increase over time (P < 0.02) but did not follow the progress of egg mineralization. Eggshell thickness was found to be a promising parameter to evaluate the stage of egg formation, and thus should be taken into account when trying to establish reference intervals for radiographic measurements of internal organs in laying hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Coutant
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie 43 Avenue Aristide Briand, 94110 Arcueil, France,
| | - Ciro Cococcetta
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie 43 Avenue Aristide Briand, 94110 Arcueil, France
| | - Albert Phouratsamay
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie 43 Avenue Aristide Briand, 94110 Arcueil, France
| | - Chloé Touzet
- Service d'imagerie Médicale Centre Hospitalier Vétérinaire Fregis, 94110 Arcueil, France
| | - Graham Zoller
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie 43 Avenue Aristide Briand, 94110 Arcueil, France
| | - Minh Huynh
- Service des Nouveaux Animaux de Compagnie 43 Avenue Aristide Briand, 94110 Arcueil, France
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Hale Mitchell LK, Koh RB, Nevarez JG. Successful Treatment of a Cervical Injury and Myopathy Using Integrative Medicine Techniques in an Eclectus Parrot ( Eclectus roratus) Following Cervical Entrapment. J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:175-179. [PMID: 37733456 DOI: 10.1647/22-00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
A 2-year-old female eclectus parrot (Eclectus roratus) was presented for suspected cervical myopathy due to trauma. Severe ventroflexion of the cervical spine and mental depression were identified during the physical examination. The bird was responsive to stimuli but otherwise quiet. Plasma biochemistry results were suggestive of a myopathy, based on marked elevations of both aspartate transaminase (25 652 U/L) and creatine kinase (253 240 U/L). Whole-body radiographic images were unremarkable. Treatment was initiated with supportive therapy for presumptive shock, dehydration, pain, myopathy, and possible spinal swelling. Allopathic therapy included subcutaneous fluids; vitamins A, D, and E; dexamethasone sodium phosphate; hydromorphone; and gavage feeding to treat the acute inflammatory process and provide nutritional support during healing. Supportive care through the Integrative Medicine Department (Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA) was also performed on the patient. Photobiomodulation, acupuncture, Tui-na massage, and rehabilitation exercises were instituted to provide adjunct treatment for relieving pain, promoting muscle healing, improving patient demeanor, and improving cervical mobility. Integrative therapies were well tolerated by the patient, with no sedation required. By day 3, mentation had subjectively improved by 50% despite the persistent cervical ventroflexion. By day 8, the elevated serum enzyme activities had decreased, the patient could eat and drink on its own, and it could readily step up and seek attention during handling. The bird was able to lift its head and could hold it at approximately 50% of normal posture. Integrative therapies were continued throughout hospitalization. The bird was released from the hospital 20 days after initial intake, with head carriage in approximately 80% of the expected normal position and no apparent cervical pain based on palpation. This case demonstrates the benefits of integrative therapies as an adjunct treatment for cervical pain and myopathy in a psittacine species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorrie K Hale Mitchell
- Louisiana State University, School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, LA 70803, USA,
| | - Ronald B Koh
- Louisiana State University, School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, LA 70803, USA
| | - Javier G Nevarez
- Louisiana State University, School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, LA 70803, USA
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Byron-Chance D, Gomez L, Hollwarth AJ, George Dutton TA. Outcomes and Complications Associated With Caudal Thoracic and Abdominal Air Sac Cannulation in 68 Birds. J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:144-154. [PMID: 37733453 DOI: 10.1647/22-00056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Air sac cannulation is used both as an emergency procedure in avian patients with severe upper respiratory compromise, as well as a means of routine ventilation for surgery of the head and neck. The objective of this retrospective study was to describe and quantify the complications associated with air sac cannulation in birds. Medical records were retrieved for all patients that underwent caudal thoracic or abdominal air sac cannulation at a single center between August 2004 and October 2020. Patient signalment, indication for air sac cannulation, location of air sac cannula (ASC) placement, occurrence and category of complications encountered, and survival data were recorded. Eighty-four ASCs were placed in 68 birds across 6 orders; 95.2% (80/84) of cases survived general anesthesia for initial ASC placement. The side and position of ASC placement were known in 33.3% (28/84) and 21.4% (18/84) of cases, respectively. Survival to ASC removal was known in 91.3% (73/80) of cases; 43 (58.9%) of these 73 cases survived to ASC removal. Complications were observed in 32.5% (26/80) of cases, and 11.5% (3/26) of cases died as a direct result of the complication. The most common reported ASC complication was loss of patency in 23.8% (19/80) of cases. Increased likelihoods for complications were seen in cases where exercise intolerance (P = 0.04) or abnormal respiratory sounds (P = 0.04) were reported at presentation. Increased likelihoods for survival to ASC removal were seen with intercostal placements (P = 0.049) and peri-interventional antibiotic therapy (P = 0.005). Decreased likelihood for survival to ASC removal was seen in cases where voice change was reported at presentation (P = 0.02). This study demonstrates a moderate risk of ASC complication, with a guarded overall prognosis for survival to ASC removal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucía Gomez
- Great Western Exotics, County Business Park, Swindon SN1 2NR, United Kingdom
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Swelum AA, Ba-Awadh HA, Olarinre IO, Saadeldin IM, Alowaimer AN. Correlation between fatty acids levels in chicken, duck, goose, pigeon, quail and turkey egg yolks and post-thawed quality of ram semen. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:1298-1310. [PMID: 37475183 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The comparison between adding egg yolks (EY) of chicken, duck, goose, pigeon, Japanese quail or turkey to the Tris glycerol extender on the quality of ram semen before freezing and post-thawing was evaluated. The correlation between fatty acids levels in egg yolks of different avian species and the post-thawed quality of ram semen was studied. The pooled ejaculates collected from five rams were extended with Tris EY glycerol extenders containing the EY of chicken, duck, goose, pigeon, quail or turkey and cryopreserved at -196°C. The straws were evaluated before freezing and post-thawing for sperm motility using a sperm cell analyser, vitality using a FluoVit kit and abnormality using a SpermBlue stain besides plasma-membrane and DNA integrities using a hypo-osmotic swelling test and a Halomax kit, respectively. The moisture, ash, protein and fatty acid (FA) contents of EY of chicken, duck, goose, pigeon, quail and turkey were analysed using a gas chromatograph. The chicken and quail EY extenders significantly improved the total progressive motility (32.05 ± 1.41 and 31.68 ± 1.43, respectively), vitality, plasma membrane and DNA integrities and abnormalities of post-thawing ram semen in comparison with other EY extenders. Pigeon EY had the lowest saturated fatty acids (SFAs) in comparison with the other types of EYs. The chicken and turkey EYs had the lowest percentage of (monounsaturated fatty acids) MUFAs in comparison with the other types of EYs. The highest percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) was observed in the turkey, pigeon and chicken EYs which were considered double or triple their percentage in duck and goose EYs, respectively. Significant positive correlations existed between SFAs levels and total motility, vitality, plasma membrane functionality and DNA integrity (0.77, 0.80, 0.67, 0.52, respectively). Significant negative correlations existed between gondoic EY levels and total motility, vitality, plasma membrane functionality and DNA integrity. In conclusion, the EYs of duck, goose, pigeon or turkey cannot substitute the chicken EY in ram semen extenders as they gave lower post-thawing quality. The quail EY can be used as a good replacer for chicken EY in the extender used for cryopreservation of ram semen. The EY composition of FAs can significantly affect the quality of ram semen post-thawing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman A Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hani A Ba-Awadh
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Isiaka O Olarinre
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Islam M Saadeldin
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah N Alowaimer
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Watson A, Gardhouse S, Hiebert K, Walsh T, Azuma C, Hocker S. Palliative Radiation Therapy for Treatment of Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma in a Double Yellow-headed Amazon Parrot ( Amazona oratrix). J Avian Med Surg 2023; 37:180-187. [PMID: 37733457 DOI: 10.1647/22-00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
A 17-year-old captive female double yellow-headed Amazon parrot (Amazona oratrix) was presented to the Kansas State University Zoological Medicine Service (Manhattan, KS, USA) for a 2-month history of a left sided facial swelling. On examination, a red, raised mass was noted on the left side of the face. A whole-body computed tomography scan of the bird was performed to assess the extent of the mass and evaluate the patient for obvious evidence of disseminated disease. No systemic involvement was detected, and the swelling was localized to the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues overlying the left rhamphotheca. Two punch biopsies were collected, and histopathology was consistent with cutaneous lymphoma, with strong positive CD3 staining congruous with a T-cell origin. Because of a lack of evidence for disseminated disease, the authors elected to pursue localized radiation therapy, and a single fraction of 8 Gray was administered. The swelling had resolved by the time of the recheck examination 4 weeks post-radiation therapy, and the patient remained clinically normal 52 weeks after radiation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Watson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA,
| | - Sara Gardhouse
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Kara Hiebert
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Timothy Walsh
- Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Chieko Azuma
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Samuel Hocker
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
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Korkmaz D, Demircioglu I, Harem IS, Yilmaz B. Macroscopic and microscopic comparison of pecten oculi in different avian species. Anat Histol Embryol 2023; 52:696-708. [PMID: 37097012 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
The current study aims to present differences between the pecten oculi of different avian species through morphologic, macroscopic, light, and electron microscopic examinations. The study is a comprehensive research on seven avian species (sparrowhawk, hawk, magpie, swan, heron, pheasant, duck). The right eyes of the animals utilized in the study were removed for light microscopic examination, whereas their left eyes were removed for electron microscopic and macroscopic examinations. Morphometric analyses, as well as stereo and light microscopic measurements, were carried out on the pecten oculi of the animals. Given all these data, it was determined that the height of the pecten oculi did not differ among the species in the study; however, the pecten oculi were larger in birds with the highest value compared to the other species in the macroscopic measurements. Also, the pecten oculi vessels were larger, and the number of melanocytes was higher in keen eyesight, raptor, and migratory birds with large bulbus oculi. All these data suggest that the pecten oculi not only supplies nutrient to the retina but also contributes to sharp vision during migration and hunting, UV absorption from sunlight, as well as preservation of intraocular equilibrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Korkmaz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Harran University, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Ismail Demircioglu
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Harran University, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Ismail Sah Harem
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Harran University, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Bestami Yilmaz
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Harran University, Sanliurfa, Turkey
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