Presence of <i>Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Streptococcus suis, Pasteurella multocida, Bordetella bronchiseptica, Haemophilus parasuis and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae</i>in upper respiratory tract of swine in farms from Aguascalientes, Mexico

Respiratory diseases are one of the most important health problems in pig herds. The porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC) is the term used to describe pneumonic diseases caused by multiple infectious agents that provoke weight loss in animals or death. In the PRDC multiple pathogens (bacteria and/or viruses) work in combination to induce this respiratory disease. Within this complex, Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Streptococcus suis, Pasteurella multocida, Bordetella bronchiseptica, Haemophilus parasuis and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae are the main bacterial pathogens involved in great economic losses to the swine industry. The aim of this work was to estimate the presence of A. pleuropneumoniae, S. suis, P. multocida, B. bronchiseptica, H. parasuis and M. hyopneumoniae in the upper respiratory tract of pigs in representative swine farms inAguascalientes,Mexico, using PCR technique. The study was performed in 14 swine farms. We obtained a total of 212 nasal swabs. Near 20% of samples were positive for A. pleuropneumoniae (located in the 79% of farms);17% were positive for S. suis (in 86% of farms), of these, 3% were S. suis serovar 2;30% were positive for H. parasuis (93% of farms);23% of the samples to P. multocida (in 79% of farms);and 19% to M. hyopneumoniae (in 64% of farms). B. bronchiseptica was not detected in this study. The results obtained show that bacterial pathogens of PRDC were present in the upper respiratory tract of pigs in all farms studied;therefore, these pathogens are widely disseminated in pig farms of Aguascalientes, Mexico.

Genetic Diversity of Great Dane Breed Using Ten Microsatellites: Impact of Breeding Control over the Breeding Line

The American Kennel Club and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale recognize two phenotypic variants of Great Dane breed denominated American and European varieties. Historically, these varieties have been segregated according to morphological characteristics. In an attempt to obtain a better characterization, breeders have been interested in the genetic parameters that could evaluate the within-breed diversity. In this document, we studied the genetic structure of Great Dane breed with 10 STR markers in 88 dogs using capillary electrophoresis. Cluster analysis, population differentiation and phylogenetic analyses revealed that American and European varieties are genetically independent. Nevertheless, within the American variety a genetic stratification was found. Additionally, a high misclassification (28%) was detected, which could be due to wrong registration or false paternity. Our results support the importance to deem genetic markers as useful tools in breeding control. Similarly, these studies serve as an accurate reference to establish standards by dog breeding associations and for choosing among dogs for inter-breeding. Nevertheless, genetic tools are only a complement of morphological methods, since both are reshuffling the control over the breeding line. Notwithstanding, this database provides an overall and scape concerning the impact of genetic diversity within-breed. Unmistakably, more databases are needed to increase the quality of the breeding line as well as the number of STR in order to study, with more detail, the genetic structure in the Great Dane race.

A study of chlorophyll-like and phycobilin pigments in the C endosymbiont of the apple- snail Pomacea canaliculata

Pigments present in the brown-greenish C morph of an intracellular endosymbiont of Pomacea canaliculata were investigated.Acetone extracts of the endosymbiotic corpuscles showed an absorption spectrum similar to that of chlorophylls.Three fractions obtained from silica gel column chromatography of the acetone extracts(CI,CII and CIII),were studied by positive ion fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry(FAB–MS)and hydrogen-nuclear magnetic resonance(H-NMR).Results indicated the presence of(1)a sterol in the yellow colored CI fraction;(2)a mixture of pheophorbides a and b in the major green fraction,CII;and(3)a modified pheophorbide a in the smaller green fraction,CIII.Aqueous extracts of the C endosymbiont did not show evidence of the occurrence of C-phycocyanin,allophycocyanin or phycoerithrin(light absorption,fluorescence emission,and electrophoresis of the protein moieties)while cyanobacterial cells(Nostoc sp.)showed evidence of C-phycocyanin and allophycocyanin.The possible phylogenetic and functional significance of the pigments present in the C endosymbiont is discussed.

Porcine Respiratory Pathogens in Swine Farms Environment in Mexico

Respiratory pathogens are the main health problem in the swine industry worldwide. These pathogens are transmitted by direct contact between animals or by aerosols and however are not well known yet, if the environment works as its reservoir, inoculum and/or dispersion medium. The objective of this study was to determine the presence of respiratory pathogens in environmental samples from swine farms in Aguascalientes, Mexico, through of PCR and RT-PCR techniques. The bacteria Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae and Pasteurella multocida were found viable in samples from water, food, soil and air. Streptococcus suis was found in a viable state in water samples. Haemophilus parasuis, Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome virus and Swine Influenza virus (H1N1 and H3N2) were detected in drinking water samples. Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and Porcine Circovirus type 2 (PCV2) were not detected in environmental samples. These results suggest that the environment of the farms acts as a reservoir, inoculum and/or vehicle of dispersion for these pathogens except for M. hyopneumoniae and PCV2.

Comparison of Chemical Elements on Carious &Normal Premolar’s Enamel Layers Using Energy Dispersive X Ray Spectrometer (X Ray-EDS)

Objectives: To compare the distribution of chemical elements among the carious and normal enamel layers on teenagers, using energy dispersive X ray spectrometer (EDS Rx). Materials and Methods: The EDS Rx analyzer is integrated to scanner electron microscope. The macro and mi-croelements were made in 30 premolars of teenager: 14 carious enamel layers and 16 normal enamel layers. Results: The quantitative and qualitative microanalyses of macro and microele-ments were found between the enamel layers of carious and normal premolar in term of variation and concentration expressed in percentage atomic weight. The statistical data analysis of ANOVA showed that the macroelements [C, Ca, P] and the microelements [Al, Cl, Mg, Na] were significantly different (P < 0.05) while, the macro [O] and the microelements [In, Si, W, S] were not significantly different (P < 0.05) among the carious and normal enamel layers. Moreover, the microelements Sb, Ba, Br, I, Ir, K, Pt, Sc, Sr, Sn and Yb were absent in carious enamel layers and present in normal enamel layers. Conclusion: The macro and microelements differ in composition and variation from the external to the internal enamel layers between the carious and the normal premolars. However, the deficiency or excess of these elements in the enamel layers determines the degree of susceptibility to carious and other dental disease. Clinical Relevance: The carious enamel in dental structure could be a major dental problem due to the deficiency or excess of macro and microele-ments which are responsible for secondary or recurrent caries, discoloration, pulpal inflammation, re-infection, abscess in jaw bone and dental disease.

Protective Effect of Phenolic-Rich Extracts from Different Parts of <i>Opuntia joconostle</i>Fruit against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Oxidative Stress in Mice

Opuntia joconostle fruit is a rich source of biocompounds such as polyphenols including gallic, vanilic, 4-hidroxybenzoic, cafeic, and syringic acids, catechin, epicatechin, rutin, and vanillin, besides betalains. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of supplementation polyphenols-rich extracts from different parts of Opuntia joconostle against carbon tetrachloride-induced oxidative stress in a mouse model. The animals were treated orally with polyphenols-rich extracts at 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg BW for 30 consecutive days. On day 30th the mice received carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) as hepatoxic agent. Biochemical evaluations were carried out 24 h after induction of the oxidative stress. Data showed that methanolic extracts from different parts of Opuntia joconostle exerting protective effect against the CCl4-induced oxidative stress in mice. Histology examination revealed that the damage decreased in groups treated with polyphenols-rich extracts compared to the group that did not receive any treatment. Opuntia joconostle fruit contains many phenolic compounds, flavonoids and betalains. The protective effect of extracts may be related to the phenolic composition and also by a counteraction with other compounds, such as betalains and flavonoids that increase their antioxidant effect.

Sperm Quality in Holstein Bulls Friesian and Brahmans of Frozen Semen Commercially

The aim of this study was to assess sperm quality (motility, viability and acrosomal integrity) sperm from commercially frozen semen straws two breeds of bulls Bos taurus (holstein Frisian) and Bos indicus (Brahman). 9 commercial straws 0.5 ml of Holstein bull semen and 9 Brahman bull were thawed, they were kept for two hours at room temperature and motility, viability and acrosomal integrity (NAR) was assessed. The results were 30% motility, viability 40% and 30% of NAR in the Holstein breed. Brahma race for motility 40%, 50% and 40% viability was obtained NAR. In conclusion, according to the results of the variables analyzed, the Brahman breed in sperm quality was better than the Holstein breed;however, the results of both races meet minimum standards of quality sperm for use in artificial insemination (AI) field level.

The effect of alpha asarone, olive oil, and dexamethasone on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in the mouse

Aim of the Study: The primary aim of the study was to test the effect of 2,4,5-trimethoxy-1-propenylbenzene (alpha asarone), a hypocholes terolaemic drug, on the progression of collagen induced arthritis (CIA) in mice. Olive oil,the vehicle of alpha-asarone, and dexamethasonewere used as control treatments. Set-Up: Four groups of DBA/1 mice were immunised with chicken type II collagen (CII) via the intradermal route and either left untreated or were treated with alpha asarone, olive oil, or dexamethasone. A non-immunised group was an additional control. Follow-Up: The thicknesses of the rear and front footpads were continuously monitored, and the levels of anti-collagen antibodies were measured at the end of the experiment. The animals were then sacrificed, and their rear and front limbs were removed and processed forhistological examination. Results: Alpha asarone had no anti-inflammatory effect on CIA, and in one third of the animals, it showed a proinflammatory effect that was characterised by a marked accumulation of neutrophils. Olive oil did not show any obvious antiinflammatory effect on CIA, but it lowered the level of CII antibodies by 50%, suggesting a potential long-term antiinflammatory effect. As expected, dexamethasone had a clear anti-inflammatory effect on CIA. Con- clusion: Alpha asarone did not show any antiinflammatory effect on CIA in the mice under the above conditions;however, the accumulation of neutrophils in the CIA lesions of mice treated with alpha asarone and the effect of olive oil in downregulating the levels of anti-CII antibodies in CIA are two findings that warrant further investigation.

Differential Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Three Purified Omega Unsaturated Fatty Acids on Collagen-Induced Arthritis in Mouse

Background: The Mediterranean Diet (MD) has been linked to a reduced risk of developing degenerative diseases, including atherosclerosis, heart stroke, diabetes, arthritis and cancer. However, only a few scientific investigations have attempted to validate this impression. The ingredients of the MD include significant amounts of omega (ω3, ω6, and ω9) unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs). A few studies of these UFAs in the prevention or treatment of arthritis have yielded controversial results, but a general belief regarding their beneficial effects has prevailed. Objective: To investigate the effects of three relevant UFAs, namely Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), Arachidonic Acid (AA), and Oleic Acid (OA) (ω3, ω6, and ω9, respectively), in the development of arthritis using a murine model of Collagen-Induced Arthritis (CIA). Methods: DBA-1 mice were immunized with chicken collagen type II (CII) and were subsequently treated with ω-UFAs for 53 days. Dexamethasone (DEXA) was used as a positive anti-inflammatory agent. The effect of the treatments was evaluated through several parameters: inflammation indices, antibody levels, cell prolifera- tion, and histopathological findings. Results and Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory effect of the tested substances was inversely correlated with the histopathological findings: a greater anti- inflammatory effect was associated with less articular damage. Oleic acid (ω9) was the most efficient anti-inflammatory UFA, followed by DHA and then AA. DEXA completely inhibited the development of arthritis, whereas the untreated CII-immunized mice developed the most severe articular damage. DBA-1 mice with CII-induced arthritis constitute an adequate model for the study of arthritis and its treatment.

Unilateral Impact of Altered Loading by Changing Teeth Height on the TMJ Fibrocartilage: Disc and Condyle of Wistar Rats

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is sensitive to loading and mechanical stress that provokes morphological changes produced by the impact in the occlusal plane. Here, this impact is evaluated in TMJ articular disc and articular cartilage using an in vivo model of unilateral occlusal plane impact and by analysis of serial tissue sections stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (H-E) or with Masson trichrome technique. Thus, six groups of 5 Wistar rats (200 - 250 g) are subjected to biomechanical dental stimulation by placing unilateral resin occlusal interference, or unilateral tooth wear made by upper left molars artificial mechanical devastation (1 control and 2 experimental groups for each treatment). Each treatment is evaluated two times at 1 and 15 days post-treatment. By H-E staining, control groups show chondrocytes arrangement as several cord cell groups in comparison with the experimental groups, which show an arrangement in one cord cell along of articular disc. However, this yields no significant difference (p < 0.05) in cell number between control and experimental groups. In contrast, in articular cartilage chondrocytes are random distributed along the superficial zone in control groups, while in experimental groups cell-free regions are observed in superficial zone. An image Blue hue analysis for trichrome stain is performed to quantify collagen;this shows a significant collagen decrease (p < 0.05) in almost all experimental groups compared with the controls. A degenerative process biomechanically induced by unilateral occlusal plane modification, causes cell and tissue changes on the TMJ structures that remain the degenerative changes observed in early osteoarthritis.

The molecular interaction of ADAMTS-1 and fibulin-1 and its potential contribution to breast cancer biology

Aim: Fibulins and ADAMTSs are two families of extracellular matrix proteins implicated in key functional and pathological processes. The fact that the fibulin-1 and ADAMTS-1 proteins interact raises new questions about the roles of these extracellular matrix proteins in modulating tumor progression. Herein, we described the functional implications of the interaction between fibulin-1 and ADAMTS-1 on the behavior of breast cancer cell lines. Methods: Fibulin-1 and ADAMTS-1 were exogenously expressed in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines to assay the effect of their interaction in cellular properties. Results: ADAMTS-1 expression exacerbates tumor effects in terms of proliferation, invasion and mammosphere formation. In contrast, the simultaneous expression of ADAMTS-1 and fibulin-1 impairs these effects. The analysis of the expression of both proteins in human breast cancer tissue arrays provides new insights into the complex roles of fibulin-1 and ADAMTS-1 in this type of tumor. ;Conclusion: Our results suggests that the interaction between ADAMTS-1 and fibulin-1 induces a pronounced anti-tumoral effect.