DigitalUM :: Browsing by browse.metadata.contributordepartment "Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada "

Browsing by browse.metadata.contributordepartment "Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada "

Now showing 1 - 20 of 55

Embargo
A cross-sectional study of the impact of regular use of insecticides in dogs on Canine Leishmaniosis seroprevalence in southeast Spain
(Elsevier, 2015-12-19) Goyena Salgado, María Elena; Pérez Cutillas, Pedro; Chitimia, L.; Risueño, J.; García-Martínez, J.D.; Bernal, L.J.; Berriatua Fernández de Larrea, Eduardo; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
The relationship between Canine Leishmaniosis (CanL) seroprevalence and regular use of topical insecticides was investigated in 800 pet dogs with no visible signs of CanL in Murcia, southeast Spain in 2011. Dogs were clients to 17 veterinary practices and were analyzed for Leishmania infantum antibodies in blood plasma using two commercial ELISAs (Ingezim, Ingenasa®, Spain; Leishcan, Hipra®, Spain). Owners were interviewed to gather data on dog related variables. They included date of birth, home address and frequency, duration and timing of insecticide treatments used to prevent ectoparasite infestations. The dog’s residence was georeferenced and environmental data potentially associated with the dog’s risk of L. infantum infection was obtained. A mixed logistic regression model was then developed to analyze the relationship between the dog’s serological status and insecticidal treatment adjusted for demographic and environmental variables. Overall, CanL seroprevalence (95% confidence limits) was 18% (16–21%) including 11% in dogs not using insecticide treatments (n = 60) and 19% in those using them (n = 740) (p > 0.05). At least 16 different insecticide products were used and 73%, 26% and 1% of dogs received 1, 2 and 3 products a year. The most frequent commercial brands used and the only ones in the market claiming anti-sandfly activity, were Scalibor collars (deltametrin 40 mg/g; MSD®), Advantix pipettes (permethrin 500 mg/ml and imidacloprid 100 mg/ml; Bayer®) and Exspot spot-on pipettes (permethrin 715 mg/ml; MSD®). Seroprevalence was 9%, 16%, 20%, 22% and 25% for dogs with Scalibor collars plus Advantix pipettes, Scalibor collars plus ExSpot pipettes, Advantix pipettes alone, Scalibor collars alone and Exspot pipettes alone, respectively. The multivariable model confirmed a significant reduction in the risk of Leishmania spp. seropositivity in dogs using the Scalibor and Advantix combination compared to those using either product alone and provided evidence of greatly increased risk of CanL in rural areas situated at 300–500 m altitude and average March–July temperatures of 18.6–19 ◦C. The study highlights the difficulty in controlling CanL infection by means of insecticide use alone and thatit could be improved by using the Scalibor and Advantix combination and identifying and targeting specific geographical areas.
Open Access
A neuroanatomical study of the feline brain using MRI and mulligan staining: functional and pathological considerations
(Universidad de Shiraz, 2021-07-21) Díaz Martínez, Elena; Ayala Florenciano, María Dolores; Arencibia Espinosa, Alberto; Soler Laguía, Marta; Kilroy, David; Martínez Gomariz, Francisco; Ramírez Zarzosa, Gregorio; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Despite multiple studies describing accurate diagnoses using advanced neuroimaging techniques, low and mid-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are still the most frequent scanners in veterinary clinics. To date, these studies in cats do not show a clear distinction of nerve centres in MRI data. Aims: The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy of Mulligan histological staining as a tool in facilitating the location and identification of the main structures of the feline brain in MRI. This study aims to facilitate the interpretation of MRI obtained with these types of scanners. Methods: A total of 10 feline brains were used. One specimen was used for MRI (T2 sequence using a 1.5T scanner). The other 9 brains were sectioned and stained with the three Mulligan staining techniques (Mulligan, Le Masurier and Robert). Results: The uptake of stain by the grey matter in these sections allowed the determination of the location and the limits of these nervous structures within the brain. The histological location of these structures was correlated with the MRI scans, leading to the successful identification of many small, indistinct nuclei. Conclusion: Mulligan staining is proposed as a tool that facilitates the location of nerve structures in comparison with data from the most frequently-used MRI scanners in veterinary clinics
Open Access
Anatomical and three-dimensional study of the female feline abdominal and pelvic vascular system using dissections, computed 3 tomography angiography and magnetic resonance angiography
(MDPI, 2023-12-14) Rojo Ríos, Daniel; Ramírez Zarzosa, Gregorio; Soler Laguía, Marta; Kilroy, David; Martínez Gomariz, Francisco; Sánchez Collado, Cayetano; Gil Cano, Francisco; García García, María I.; Ayala Florenciano, María Dolores; Arencibia Espinosa, Alberto; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
This study describes the anatomical characteristics of the abdominal and pelvic vascular system of two healthy mature female cats via three-dimensional contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography, non-contrast enhanced magnetic resonance angiography and three-dimensional printing. Volume-rendering computed tomography angiography images were acquired from the ventral aspect using RadiAnt, Amira and OsiriX MD Dicom three-dimensional formats, and three-dimensional printing was obtained and compared with the corresponding computed tomography angiography images. Non-contrast enhanced magnetic resonance angiography was made us ing the time-of-flight imaging in ventral, oblique and lateral views. In addition, three cadavers with colored latex injection were dissected to facilitate the identification of the vascular structures. Three-dimensional computed tomography angiography showed the main vascular structures, whereas with the time-of-flight blood appeared with a high signal intensity compared with associated abdominal and pelvic tissues. Three-dimensional computed tomography angiography images and time-of-flight sequences provided adequate anatomical details of the main arteries and veins that could be used for future feline anatomical and clinical vascular studies of the abdomen and pelvis
Open Access
Artificial insemination of all ejaculated sperm fractions accelerates embryo development and increases the uterine vascularity in the pig
(Elsevier, 2024-04-15) Toledo Guardiola, Santa María; Párraga Ros, Ester; Seva Alcaraz, Juan; Luongo, Chiara; García Vázquez, Francisco A.; Soriano Úbeda, C.; Matás, C.; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
The semen of boar is characterized by ejaculation in well-differentiated fractions with specific concentration, composition, and volume. The ‘sperm-rich fraction' (SRF), the most concentrated seminal fraction, is habitually collected in insemination centers to make artificial insemination (AI) doses. The absence of the other fractions in AI doses could alter the uterine reaction to AI and not trigger essential responses that could maximize fertility. Thus, there is an urge to ascertain the impact of different ejaculate fractions on the uterus after AI to optimize the semen doses. This work analyzed specific parameters related to fertility in pregnant artificially inseminated sows (n = 15) with ac-cumulative fractions of the semen of boars (n = 6): F1, composed of the sperm-rich fraction (SRF); F2, composed of F1 plus the intermediate fraction; F3, composed of F2 plus the post-SRF. Non-inseminated sows (n = 5) were included as control (C). The different types of seminal dose did not affect the number of ovulated follicles (CL; corpora lutea, p > 0.05) but did affect the embryo development (p < 0.05). The proportion of embryos in morula stages was significantly higher in AI-F1 sows (84.4%, p < 0.05). Morulas and blastocysts were balanced in AI-F2 or AI-F3 (p > 0.05). Independently of the type of seminal dose (F1, F2, or F3), we observed by immunohistochemistry that AI significantly increased uterine vascularization, although with some anatomical differences. The cranial region of the uterine horns was significantly more vascularized in AI-F1 or AI-F2 sows (26.7 ± 2.3 and 28.6 ± 2.0%, respectively), and AI-F3 showed significantly less vascularization at that point (17.8 ± 1.6%, p < 0.05). To summarize, the synergistic effect of all ejaculate fractions accelerates embryo development, at least during the preimplantation period, and increases the uterine reaction to AI in certain parts of the uterus.
Open Access
Blood plasma biochemical parameters in fully-grown pigs derived from assisted reproductive technologies
(Brazilian College of Animal Reproduction, 2024) Romero-Aguirregomezcorta, Jon; Cánovas, Sebastián; Heras, Sonia; Serrano-Albal, María; Ramis, Guillermo; Paris-Oller, Evelyne; Soriano-Úbeda, Cristina; Gadea, Joaquín; Coy, Pilar; Romar, Raquel; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Emerging evidence indicates a long-lasting effect of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) on molecular physiology and metabolic function. Previous studies have reported variations in the metabolic profiles in piglets and growing pigs born from artificial insemination (AI) and born after transfer of in vitro produced embryo (IVP) (París-Oller et al., Res Vet Sci,142:43, 2021) but it is unknown whether these differences persist into adulthood. The aim of this work was to study baseline values of plasma biochemical parameters in ART-derived pigs and to gain insight into the evolution of metabolic profile across their life [young age (45 days), adulthood (365 days), and old age (1250 days)]. Pigs born through AI and IVP [n= 16 and 29 (45 days), 13 and 21 (365 days), and 9 and 13 (1250 days), respectively], produced in a previous study (París-Oller et al., J Anim Sci Biotechnol 12:32, 2021), were kept under same housing, managing and feeding conditions. Plasma was obtained through the centrifugation (1200 g, 20 min, 4 ºC, Eppendorf 5810 R) of blood collected in lithium heparin tubes and stored (-80ºC) to determine the biochemical parameters total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), globulin (GLOB), creatinine (CREA), urea (URE), glucose (GLUC), cholesterol (CHOL), triglycerides (TRIG), amylase (AMIL), lipase (LIP), creatinine kinase (CK), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and total bilirubin (TB) using an automated clinical chemistry analyzer (Olympus AU400, Japan). Inter- and intraassay coefficient of variation were below 15%. Data were analyzed by a mixed ANOVA and Student’s t-test for multiple comparisons. In the absence of homoscedasticity, a Student’s t-test with Welch’s correction was used, and in case of non-normality the Wilcoxon rank-sum test was performed. A P value <0.05 was onsidered significant. The analyses of the metabolites showed higher CREA in old-IVP than old-AI (2.32±0.07 vs. 1.925±0.07 mg/dL); higher GLUC in young-IVP than young-AI (107.77±6.10 vs. 83.77±5.41 mg/dl); lower LIP in young-IVP than young-AI (16.74±1.29 vs. 22.91±2.11 IU/L); and lower AMIL, GGT and AST in IVP than AI at all ages. The other metabolites were similar between AI and IVP animals but increased (PT, ALB, GLOB, URE, TBIL), decreased (CHOL, ALP, ALT) or fluctuated up and down (TRIG) with age. The enzyme CK, related to muscle integrity, was the only parameter that was not affected by the group or age of pigs. Reference values for plasma biochemical values provide valuable information for investigators and will help in valid interpretation for health status and for those who use IVP pigs as a research model. In conclusion, these physiological data are useful for veterinarians and livestock producers and show slight persisting differences in some metabolites in pigs naturally and artificially conceived during life although the clinical relevance of such differences is unnoticeable.
Embargo
Canine carcinosarcomas in the head
(SAGE Publications, 2005-11) Sánchez, J.; Buendía, A. J.; Villafranca, M.; Velarde, R.; Altamira, J.; Martínez Cáceres, Carlos Manuel; Navarro, J. A.; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Four cases of neoplasms in the heads of old dogs were studied. All the dogs showed both carcinomatous and sarcomatous malignant components in an admixed growing pattern. Histologic analysis of the tumors showed that the carcinomatous cells resembled squamous cell carcinoma in all dogs except one, where an adenoid arrangement of the neoplastic cells was also observed. The sarcomatous component showed osteoid matrix produced by pleomorphic poorly differentiated cells, which is regarded as a typical feature of osteosarcomas. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that the components were positive only for cytokeratin (carcinomatous component) or vimentin (sarcomatous component). This observation led us to classify the neoplasms as true carcinosarcomas, thus providing evidence of a new preferential location for this unusual tumor in dog.
Embargo
Cell volume regulation modulates NLRP3 inflammasome activation
(Elsevier, 2012-09-21) Compan, Vincent; Baroja Mazo, Alberto; López Castejón ∙, Gloria; Gómez, Ana I.; Martínez Cáceres, Carlos Manuel; Angosto, Diego; Montero, María T.; Herranz, Antonio S.; Bazán, Eulalia; Reimers, Diana; Mulero, Victoriano; Pelegrín, Pablo; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Cell volume regulation is a primitive response to alterations in environmental osmolarity. The NLRP3 inflammasome is a multiprotein complex that senses pathogen- and danger-associated signals. Here, we report that, from fish to mammals, the basic mechanisms of cell swelling and regulatory volume decrease (RVD) are sensed via the NLRP3 inflammasome. We found that a decrease in extracellular osmolarity induced a K+-dependent conformational change of the preassembled NLRP3-inactive inflammasome during cell swelling, followed by activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and caspase-1, which was controlled by transient receptor potential channels during RVD. Both mechanisms were necessary for interleukin-1β processing. Increased extracellular osmolarity prevented caspase-1 activation by different known NLRP3 activators. Collectively, our data identify cell volume regulation as a basic conserved homeostatic mechanism associated with the formation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and reveal a mechanism for NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
Embargo
Characterization of a murine model of intranasal infection suitable for testing vaccines against C. abortus
(Elsevier, 2007-01-15) Buendía, A. J.; Nicolás, L.; Ortega, N.; Gallego, M. C.; Martínez Cáceres, Carlos Manuel; Sánchez, J.; Caro, M. R.; Navarro, J. A.; Salinas, J.; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Mouse models have been widely used to test candidate vaccines against Chlamydophila abortus infection in mice. Although the induction of a systemic infection by endogenous or intraperitoneal inoculation is a useful tool for understanding the immune mechanism involved in the protection conferred by the vaccination, a different approach is necessary to understand other factors of the infection, such as mucosal immunity or the colonization of target organs. To test whether C. abortus intranasal model of infection in mice is a useful tool for testing vaccines in a first group of experiments mice, were infected intranasally with C. abortus to characterize the model of infection. When this model was used to test vaccines, two inactivated experimental vaccines, one of them adjuvated with QS-21 and another with aluminium hydroxide, and a live attenuated vaccine (strain 1B) were used. Non-vaccinated control mice died within the first 8 days, after displaying substantial loss of weight. Histologically, the mice showed lobar fibrinopurulent bronchointerstitial pneumonia. Prior immunization with QS-21 adjuvated vaccine or 1B vaccine presented mortality and the recipients showed a greater number of T cells in the lesions, especially CD8+ T cells, than the control mice and mice immunized with vaccine adjuvated with aluminium hydroxide. The results confirm that the C. abortus intranasal model of infection in mice is a useful tool for testing vaccines
Open Access
Congenital bilateral clinical anophthalmia and brachygnathia superior in a fighting bull calf
(Wiley, 2023-05-18) Seva Alcaraz, Juan; Sanes, José Manuel; Bueno, Juan Manuel; Jódar, Carlos de; Soler, Marta; Bayón, Alejandro; Párraga Ros, Ester; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
This study describes a case of a 20-day-old male fighting bull with bilateral clinical anophthalmia and brachygnathia superior whose dam was 12.5 years old and was mistakenly dewormed with ivermectin intramuscularly in the first third of gestation in a livestock farm. A macroscopic examination of the carcass was performed, with a special focus on the ocular components. Eyeball remains were found in both orbits and a histopathological examination was performed on them. Antibodies by serological study against bovine herpes virus-1, respiratory syncytial virus and bovine viral diarrhea virus for both the cow and the calf were not detected. The calf had small orbits and inside them a white and brown mass of soft consistency. Microscopically, abundant muscular and adipose tissue was observed, alongside nervous structures and vestiges of ocular structures with stratified epithelium and abundant connective tissue with glands. No evidence that this congenital bilateral anophthalmia had infectious or hereditary origin was found. By contrast, the malformation could be related to the treatment with ivermectin during the first month of gestation.
Open Access
Consumption of spinach and tomato modifies lipid metabolism, reducing Hepatic Steatosis in rats
(MDPI, 2020-10-24) Elvira Torales, Laura Inés; Navarro González, Inmaculada; Rodrigo García, Joaquín; Seva Alcaraz, Juan; García Alonso, Javier; Periago Castón, María Jesús; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is currently a serious and growing clinical problem in developed and developing countries and is considered one of the most frequent chronic liver diseases in the world. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functionality of dietary carotenoids provided by tomato and spinach in the dietary treatment of steatosis. Twenty-two Sprague-Dawley rats with induced steatosis were grouped into three groups and fed standard diet (CD group) and two experimental diets supplemented with 12.75% (LC12.75 group) and 25.5% (HC25.5 group) of a mixture of spinach and tomato powder. Rats fed carotenoid-rich feeds showed an improvement in the plasma biomarkers of steatosis, with lower levels of glucose, total cholesterol, VLDL, TG, proteins, ALT and AST. Likewise, a decrease in oxidative stress was observed, with a significant reduction of malondialdehyde (MDA) in plasma (up to 54%), liver (up to 51.42%) and urine (up to 78.89%) (p < 0.05) and an increase in plasma antioxidant capacity (ORAC) (up to 73.41%) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, carotenoid-rich diets led to an accumulation of carotenoids in the liver and were inversely correlated with the content of total cholesterol and hepatic triglycerides, increasing the concentrations of MUFA and PUFA (up to 32.6% and 48%, respectively) (p < 0.05). The accumulation of carotenoids in the liver caused the modulation of genes involved in lipid metabolism, and we particularly observed an overexpression of ACOX1, APOA1 and NRIH2 (LXR) and the synthesis of the proteins. This study suggests that dietary carotenoids from spinach and tomato aid in the dietary management of steatosis by reversing steatosis biomarkers.
Embargo
Diagnosis of placental pathogens in small ruminants by immunohistochemistry and PCR on paraffin-embedded samples
(Wiley, 2009-08-08) Navarro, J. A.; Buendía, A. J.; Martínez Cáceres, Carlos Manuel; Sánchez, J.; Ortega, N.; Gallego, M. C.; Caro, M. R.; Salinas, J.; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
A histological study was carried out on 58 formalinfixed and paraffin-embedded samples of placenta from sheep and goats that had aborted, and the placental lesions were graded. Sequential histological sections of each cotyledon were then immunostained with specific antibodies and used for PCR detection of Chlamydophila abortus, Coxiella burnetii, Salmonella Abortusovis, Brucella melitensis, Listeria monocytogenes and Toxoplasma gondii. Most of the cotyledons showed different degrees of placentitis. The proportional agreement between the two techniques was 0·879 (κvalue 0·746). C abortus was the most prevalent pathogen. Mixed infections were common.
Open Access
Differences in weight, hierarchy, and incidence of lameness between two groups of adult pigs derived from assisted reproductive technologies
(MDPI, 2022-12-17) Romero-Aguirregomezcorta, Jon; Ramírez, Lisette L.; Ortin Bustillo, Alba; Ramis, Guillermo; Romar, Raquel; Coy, Pilar; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
The in vitro production (IVP) and subsequent transfer of embryos (ET) to recipient mothers is not yet an established reproductive technology in the pig industry, as it is in cattle. However, that the trade of IVP-cryopreserved pig embryos is expected to start in the next decades. Society and governments are increasingly aware of the repercussions that IVP could have for animal health, welfare, behavior, or food safety, but proven scientific information for this type of animal does not exist, since no colonies of pigs have been created to this end. We created a small one and studied the differences between 16 IVP-derived pigs and 14 pigs derived from artificial insemination (AI), at 3.5 years of age, conceived from the same boar, and housed and fed under the same conditions since they were born. Incidence of lameness, position in the herd hierarchy, weight, adenosine deaminase activity, and hematological and biochemical analytes were compared between the two groups of animals. The results showed that the IVP animals weighed more, occupied higher positions in the herd hierarchy, and had a lower incidence of lameness. Although genetic differences from the maternal line could explain some of these results, it is also possible that the IVP animals developed better adaptative abilities, but more studies with a higher number of animals are necessary to reach consistent conclusions.
Open Access
Effect of 17α-ethynilestradiol and GPER1 activation on body and muscle growth, muscle composition and growth-related gene expression of gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata L.
(MDPI, 2021-12-04) Ayala Florenciano, María Dolores; Gómez, Victoria; Cabas, Isabel; García Hernández, María del Pilar; Chaves-Pozo, Elena; Arizcun, Marta; García de la Serrana, Daniel; Gil, Francisco; García-Ayala, Alfonsa; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals include natural and synthetic estrogens, such as 17α-ethynilestradiol (EE2), which can affect reproduction, growth and immunity. Estrogen signalling is mediated by nuclear or membrane estrogen receptors, such as the new G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1). The present work studies the effect of EE2 and G1 (an agonist of GPER1) on body and muscle parameters and growth-related genes of 54 two-year-old seabreams. The fish were fed a diet containing EE2 (EE2 group) and G1 (G1 group) for 45 days and then a diet without EE2 or G1 for 122 days. An untreated control group was also studied. At 45 days, the shortest body length was observed in the G1 group, while 79 and 122 days after the cessation of treatments, the shortest body growth was observed in the EE2 group. Hypertrophy of white fibers was higher in the EE2 and G1 groups than it was in the control group, whereas the opposite was the case with respect to hyperplasia. Textural hardness showed a negative correlation with the size of white fibers. At the end of the experiment, all fish analyzed in the EE2 group showed a predominance of the gonadal ovarian area. In addition, the highest expression of the mafbx gene (upregulated in catabolic signals) and mstn2 (myogenesis negative regulator) was found in EE2-exposed fish.
Open Access
Effect on muscle cellularity ofdDiet supplementation with nannochloropsis gaditana microalgae in the final fattening phase of gilthead seabream culture up to commercial size
(MDPI, 2023-10-24) Ayala Florenciano, María Dolores; Chaves-Pozo, Elena; Sáez, María Isabel; Galafat, Alba; Alarcón, Francisco Javier; Martínez, Tomás Francisco; Arizcun, Marta; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Previous studies have shown that Nannochloropsis gaditana can partially replace fishmeal in the diet of gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata. However, its effect on muscle growth is hardly known. This experiment was carried out with gilthead seabream adults that were fed with N. gaditana at two inclusion levels (2.5 or 5%) either raw (R2.5 and R5 groups) or cellulose-hydrolyzed (H2.5 and H5 groups) for 45 days in the final fattening phase. The body length and body weight were measured in all fish at the beginning and end of the experiment. Also, the white muscle transverse area (WM), size, number and fibrillar density of the white fibers were measured in 9 fish group􀀀1. After 45 days, the body parameters and the WM did not show significant differences among the groups. However, muscle cellularity did show significant differences, such that the hypertrophy values were higher in the H2.5 and H5 than in the R2.5 and R5 groups. On the contrary, R2.5 and R5 showed the highest fibrillar density and hyperplasia values, which are often positively correlated with the fillet firmness and therefore could improve the final quality of the fish. No significant differences attributable to the inclusion levels of N. gaditana were observed.
Open Access
Effects of Micro- and Macroalgae-Supplemented diets on Growth and Muscle Fibrillar Constitution of Gilthead Seabream, Sparus aurata L., in the Final on-growing Phase
(MDPI, 2025-06-02) Ayala Florenciano, María Dolores; Chaves Pozo, Elena; Sáez, María Isabel; Alarcón, Francisco Javier; Martínez, Tomás Francisco; Arizcun, Marta; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
The influence of algae in a final fattening diet for gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata, was studied in an 87 d feeding trial. Five groups were analysed (three tanks per group). In the first 38 days, one lot was fed with standard algae-free feed (C1) and four batches were fed with an algae-free diet low in fishmeal (FM) and fish oil (FO) and rich in terrestrial vegetables (C2). Subsequently, the C2 diet was changed in three out of the four groups, two of them being fed a diet with a microalgae blend (10%) plus 2% macroalgae (Alaria esculenta), either in raw (C2-R) or hydrolysed (C2-H) form, and a third batch with a diet lacking FM and FO but supplemented with 10% microalgae and 7% algae oil (C2-O) for 49 days. Body length and weight, muscle parameters, and conversion index were analysed after 38 and 87 days. At day 38, no significant differences were observed in any parameter between C1 and C2, but at the end of the trial (day 87), C2 displayed the lowest weight gain and the worst conversion rate, whereas C2-R showed higher body weight, fibrillar hypertrophy, and better conversion rates than the other groups, and C2-H displayed higher hyperplasia values than the other groups.
Open Access
Effects of raw and hydrolysed Nannochloropsis gaditana biomass included at low level in finishing diets for gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) on fillet quality and shelf life
(Springer, 2023-06) Sáez, Mª Isabel; Galafat, Alba; Suárez, Mª Dolores; Chaves Pozo, Elena; Arizcun, Marta; Ayala Florenciano, María Dolores; Alarcón, Francisco Javier; Martínez, Tomás F.; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Numerous studies evaluating the effects of the incorporation of microalgae in feeds have reported favourable impacts on different physiological aspects of aquacultured fish. Although productivity is the major goal in terms of profitability in fish farming, qualitative aspects are gaining the attention of producers, given the relevance of quality attributes related to organoleptic parameters, proximal composition, and shelf life on the commercial value of fish. Indeed, microalgae are acknowledged for their richness in substances with potential positive effects on all those quality attributes. In this context, this study assesses the effects of finishing diets enriched with the microalga Nannochloropsis gaditana, either crude or enzymatically hydrolysed, on several quality parameters of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) fillets. Two inclusion levels (2.5 and 5%) of raw and enzymatically hydrolysed microalgal biomass were incorporated into diets, plus a microalgae-free control diet, and a 42-day feeding trial was carried out on fish of commercial size (approx. 500 g body weight). The influence of the experimental diets on fish biometry, fillet quality parameters, and shelf life was evaluated. The results indicate, overall, that microalgae-enriched diets yielded favourable, dose-dependent effects on several objective quality parameters of fillets, namely, improved fatty acid profile, reduced microbial counts, enhanced lipid oxidative status, and improved textural and skin colour attributes. Although the enzymatic pre-treatment of the microalgal biomass was expected to impact positively its functional effects on all quality parameters, however, no general trend was observed
Open Access
Endoscopic study of the oral and pharyngeal cavities in the Common dolphin, Striped dolphin, Risso’s dolphin, Harbour porpoise and Pilot whale: reinforced with other diagnostic and anatomic techniques
(MDPI, 2021-05-22) García de los Ríos y Loshuertos, Álvaro; Soler Laguía, Marta; Arencibia Espinosa, Alberto; Martínez Gomariz, Francisco; Sánchez Collado, Cayetano; López Fernández, Alfredo; Gil Cano, Francisco; Seva Alcaraz, Juan; Ramírez Zarzosa, Gregorio; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
In this work, the fetal and newborn anatomical structures of the dolphin oropharyngeal cavities were studied. The main technique used was endoscopy, as these cavities are narrow tubular spaces and the oral cavity is difficult to photograph without moving the specimen. The endoscope was used to study the mucosal features of the oral and pharyngeal cavities. Two pharyngeal diverticula of the auditory tubes were discovered on either side of the choanae and larynx. These spaces begin close to the musculotubaric channel of the middle ear, are linked to the pterygopalatine recesses (pterygoid sinus) and they extend to the maxillopalatine fossa. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), osteological analysis, sectional anatomy, dissections, and histology were also used to better understand the function of the pharyngeal diverticula of the auditory tubes. These data were then compared with the horse’s pharyngeal diverticula of the auditory tubes. The histology revealed that a vascular plexus inside these diverticula could help to expel the air from this space to the nasopharynx. In the oral cavity, teeth remain inside the alveolus and covered by gums. The marginal papillae of the tongue differ in extension depending on the fetal specimen studied. The histology reveals that the incisive papilla is vestigial and contain abundant innervation. No ducts were observed inside lateral sublingual folds in the oral cavity proper and caruncles were not seen in the prefrenular space.
Embargo
Evaluation of Nannochloropsis gaditana raw and hydrolysed biomass at low inclusion level as dietary functional additive for gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) juveniles
(Elsevier, 2022-04-28) Sáez, María Isabel; Galafat, Alba; Vizcaíno, Antonio Jesús; Chaves-Pozo, Elena; Ayala Florenciano, María Dolores; Arizcun, Marta; Alarcón, Francisco Javier; Suárez, María Dolores; Martínez, Tomás Francisco; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Abundant research is being carried out in the last years aimed at exploring microalgal biomass as nutrient source for different species of aquacultured fish. Some microalgae species, such as Nannochloropsis gaditana, have thick cell walls rich in cellulose, which might well reduce the bioavailability of intracellular active compounds. Among the alternatives aimed at overcoming this limitation, cellulase enzyme hydrolysis is proposed as a convenient and practical solution. In this regard, an in vitro assay was carried out, in which N. gaditana biomass was treated with cellulase (5% w/w basis) and the release of soluble compounds (reducing sugars, free amino acids and total phenolics) into the reaction medium was measured and compared to untreated raw biomass. The results confirmed increased yields of those compounds as a result of the enzyme pre-treatment. A 90-d feeding trial was also carried out in order to assess in vivo the influence of the inclusion of N. gaditana in feeds on juvenile gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) growth, digestive physiology and body composition. Microalgal biomass was added at two inclusion levels (25 and 50 g kg 1 dry weight) in four experimental feeds, either crude or enzymatically pretreated. Animals (15.1 g initial body weight) were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments (two inclusion levels, 2.5 and 5%, and two microalgae formats, raw and enzymatically hydrolysed, plus a microalgae-free control), and distributed triplicate tanks per dietary treatment. Fish were withdrawn after 45 and 90 days, and proximate composition, muscle fatty acid and amino acid profiles, muscle and liver lipid oxidation, instrumental skin colour, digestive enzyme activities, as well as structural and ultrastructural changes in the intestinal mucosa were determined. No differences attributable to the dietary treatments were found with regard to fish growth or proximate composition at the end of the feeding trial. On the contrary, the inclusion of microalgal biomass, irrespectively of the cellulase pre-treatment, caused beneficial effects on some physiological parameters (namely digestive mucosa structure and functionality, oxidative status of muscle lipids, and instrumental colour). The only clear improvement found in fish attributable to the cellulase pre-treatment of the microalgal biomass was related to the prevention of muscle lipid oxidation. Overall, the results suggest that N. gaditana used as additive (at inclusion level below 5%) in feeds might represent a valuable nutritional strategy for S. aurata juveniles, even if growth was not affected.
Embargo
Evidence for widespread Leishmania infantum infection among wild carnivores in L. infantum periendemic northern Spain
(Elsevier, 2013-12-17) Del Rio, L.; Chitimia, L.; Cubas, A.; Victoriano, I.; De la Rúa, P.; Gerrikagoitia, X.; Barral, M.; Munoz-García, C.I.; Goyena Salgado, María Elena; García-Martínez, D.; Fisa, R.; Riera, C.; Murcia, L.; Segovia Hernández, Manuel; Berriatua Fernández de Larrea, Eduardo; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Leishmania spp. infection was investigated in tissue samples of wild carnivores from the Spanish Basque Country (BC), by PCR and DNA sequencing. The region is at the northern periphery of Leishmania infantum endemic Iberian Peninsula and infection in the dog (reservoir) or other species has not been previously reported. Leishmania kinetoplast DNA was detected by real-time PCR (rtPCR) in 28% (44/156) of animals. Specifically, in 26% of Eurasian badgers (n = 53), 29% of foxes (n = 48), 29% of stone martens (n = 21) and in 25–50% of less numerous species including genets, wild cats, pole cats, European mink and weasels. Infected animals particularly badgers, were most prevalent in the southernmost province of the BC (Araba)in areas dominated by arable land. Subsequent amplification and sequencing of a fragment of the rRNA internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) from a subset of rtPCR positives samples confirmed the species as L. infantum, showing a high sequence homogeneity with ITS2 sequences of L. infantum from dogs and humans from southern Spain. In summary, this study reports for the first time L. infantum infection in wild carnivores from the BC including in stone martens, pole cats and minks in which infection has not been previously described. It supports the need to study infection in dogs and people in this region and is an example of the value of infection surveillance in wildlife to assess potential risks in the domestic environment and their role in spreading infections in non-endemic areas.
Open Access
Extracellular ATP activates the NLRP3 inflammasome and is an early danger signal of skin allograft rejection
(Elsevier, 2017-12-19) Amores Iniesta, Joaquín; Barberá Cremades, María; Martínez Cáceres, Carlos Manuel; Parrilla, Pascual; Baroja Mazo, Alberto; Pelegrín, Pablo; Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Comparada
Immune cells are equipped with a number of receptors that recognize sterile injury and pathogens. We find that host immune cells release ATP as an inflammatory signal in response to allogeneic transplantation. ATP then acts via a feedback mechanism on the P2X7 channel to activate the NLRP3 inflammasome and subsequently process and release interleukin (IL)-18. This process is a necessary stage in the deleterious Th1 response against allotransplantation via interferon-γ production. Lack of IL-18 resulted in a decrease in graft-infiltrating CD8 cells but an increase in regulatory T cells. In human liver transplant patients undergoing progressive immunosuppressive drug withdrawal, we found that patients experiencing acute rejection had higher levels of the P2X7 receptor in circulating inflammatory monocytes compared to tolerant patients. These data suggest that the pharmacological inhibition of the P2X7 receptor or the NLRP3 inflammasome will aid in inducing transplant tolerance without complete immunoparalysis.