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This study aimed to determine the thyroid and lipid profiles in 30 Nicastrese goats, along different physiological periods: before mating (nonpregnant goats), during the whole pregnancy (pregnant goats), and during postpartum and early lactation (milking goats). Blood samples were collected monthly from March 2020 to January 2021. Serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), total and free triiodothyronine (T3, fT3), and thyroxine (T4, fT4) concentrations were measured using immunoenzymatic assay kits and serum lipid panels (triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (tCho)) by enzymatic colorimetric method; very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL Cho) was calculated. Pregnant and milking goats showed the lower T3 (p< 0.0002) and T4 (p< 0.0005) concentrations, with lower BCS (p< 0.001) only in pregnant ones. Milking goats showed tCho (p< 0.006) concentrations lower than nonpregnant ones, and TG and VLDL Cho (p< 0.001) lower than both pregnant and nonpregnant goats. T4:T3 and T3:fT3 were significantly and positively correlated in both pregnancy and lactation. Under similar environmental, nutrition, and management conditions, different physiological phases play a significant role in the thyroid and lipid profiles in Nicastrese goats. These endocrine and metabolic resources could contribute to the knowledge useful for the salvage of this endangered, local, native breed.
Luigi Liotta; Arianna Bionda; Marco Quartuccio; Floro De Nardo; Rosanna Visalli; Esterina Fazio. Thyroid and Lipidic Profiles in Nicastrese Goats (Capra hircus) during Pregnancy and Postpartum Period. Animals 2021, 11, 2386 .
AMA StyleLuigi Liotta, Arianna Bionda, Marco Quartuccio, Floro De Nardo, Rosanna Visalli, Esterina Fazio. Thyroid and Lipidic Profiles in Nicastrese Goats (Capra hircus) during Pregnancy and Postpartum Period. Animals. 2021; 11 (8):2386.
Chicago/Turabian StyleLuigi Liotta; Arianna Bionda; Marco Quartuccio; Floro De Nardo; Rosanna Visalli; Esterina Fazio. 2021. "Thyroid and Lipidic Profiles in Nicastrese Goats (Capra hircus) during Pregnancy and Postpartum Period." Animals 11, no. 8: 2386.
Synchronous primary tumors are considered severe, comorbid conditions in people representing neoplasm that develop independently and concomitantly. A diagnosis of synchronous tumors was made in a dog, underlying the difficulties to reach it without the aid of multiple diagnostic techniques aimed to demonstrate the simultaneous coexistence of different tumor types. A 7-year-old male Boxer dog presented several tumors located on the skin of the left hind limb and the scrotal region. Moreover, additional tumors in the testicles, after palpation and ultrasound examination, were detected. Following diagnostic results, the cutaneous tumor, scrotum, and testes were surgically removed. Pathological investigations revealed the presence of five different tumors: a cutaneous mast cell tumor; a scrotal melanocytoma; three testicular neoplasms (Sertoli Sustentacular cell tumor, seminoma, and interstitial Leydig cell tumor). The present report describes a neoplastic synchronism due to the presence of five different primary tumors in a dog and, for the first time the presence of a collision testicular tumor together with other non-testicular primary tumors. The occasional finding underlines the importance of the knowledge of such conditions in the process of decision-making and in carrying out all the proper diagnostic procedures for a correct diagnosis and clinical staging.
Claudia Rifici; Marco Quartuccio; Alessandra Sfacteria; Giovanni Lanteri; Jessica Maria Abbate; Santo Cristarella; Giuseppe Mazzullo. A case of neoplastic synchronism in a dog. Research in Veterinary Science 2021, 140, 64 -68.
AMA StyleClaudia Rifici, Marco Quartuccio, Alessandra Sfacteria, Giovanni Lanteri, Jessica Maria Abbate, Santo Cristarella, Giuseppe Mazzullo. A case of neoplastic synchronism in a dog. Research in Veterinary Science. 2021; 140 ():64-68.
Chicago/Turabian StyleClaudia Rifici; Marco Quartuccio; Alessandra Sfacteria; Giovanni Lanteri; Jessica Maria Abbate; Santo Cristarella; Giuseppe Mazzullo. 2021. "A case of neoplastic synchronism in a dog." Research in Veterinary Science 140, no. : 64-68.
The effect of seasonal variation and lunar cycles on reproductive parameters in dogs is unknown. Lunar cycles have important effects on several biological events. Controversy exists about the influence of lunar cycles on offspring sex ratio. This study examined the sex offspring distribution of 973 puppies (48% females and 52% males) from 150 bitches in Italy between 2015 and 2020. A two-way ANOVA followed by post-hoc t-test (Bonferroni correction) was used to analyze the influence of season and lunar phase on offspring sex ratio at conception. Sex offspring distribution was not affected by season, whereas lunar phase had a significant effect (p< .05). During the new moon, the proportion of male puppies born was significantly lower than during the full moon phase (p < .05). We conclude that season had no effect on sex offspring distribution. The new moon phase at conception appeared to be related to a lower male sex ratio at birth. Further studies assessing additional factors will help provide a better understanding of the lunar cycle differences observed in the sex ratio distribution of dogs.
Daniela Alberghina; Mauro Gioè; Marco Quartuccio; Luigi Liotta. The influence of lunar cycle at the time of conception on sex offspring distribution in dogs. Chronobiology International 2021, 1 -5.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Mauro Gioè, Marco Quartuccio, Luigi Liotta. The influence of lunar cycle at the time of conception on sex offspring distribution in dogs. Chronobiology International. 2021; ():1-5.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Mauro Gioè; Marco Quartuccio; Luigi Liotta. 2021. "The influence of lunar cycle at the time of conception on sex offspring distribution in dogs." Chronobiology International , no. : 1-5.
Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is responsible for splenic pathological changes. The main features detectable from ultrasound examination are splenomegaly and diffuse alterations of the echostructure. The study aimed to highlight whether these ultrasound changes are related to the severity of the disease or to a modification of splenic microvascularization that can be detected in vivo through contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS). Twenty-five adult dogs tested for CanL were enrolled in this prospective, controlled study and staged according to LeishVet guidelines. Bidimensional ultrasonography revealed that splenomegaly was seen in 50% of the affected dogs, and diffuse parenchymal changes were seen in more than 60% of dogs with splenomegaly, showing a positive correlation with severity of the disease; therefore, splenomegaly could be of prognostic significance. CEUS showed that a persistent heterogeneous distribution pattern appeared only in spleens with diffuse echostructure alterations. The evaluation of quantitative CEUS parameters regarding the volume and velocity of flow in three regions of interest did not show differences between affected and control dogs. Diffuse spleen microvascular modifications evidenced by CEUS were reported for the first time in dogs with CanL. In endemic areas, CanL could be included in the differential diagnoses list when detecting splenic alterations in dogs.
Massimo De Majo; Giulia Donato; Marisa Masucci; Cyndi Mangano; Maria Persichetti; Luigi Liotta; Giuseppe Mazzullo; Rosanna Visalli; Marco Quartuccio; Nicola Iannelli; Santo Cristarella; Maria Pennisi. Bidimensional and Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography of the Spleen in Dogs Affected by Leishmaniosis. Animals 2021, 11, 1437 .
AMA StyleMassimo De Majo, Giulia Donato, Marisa Masucci, Cyndi Mangano, Maria Persichetti, Luigi Liotta, Giuseppe Mazzullo, Rosanna Visalli, Marco Quartuccio, Nicola Iannelli, Santo Cristarella, Maria Pennisi. Bidimensional and Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography of the Spleen in Dogs Affected by Leishmaniosis. Animals. 2021; 11 (5):1437.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMassimo De Majo; Giulia Donato; Marisa Masucci; Cyndi Mangano; Maria Persichetti; Luigi Liotta; Giuseppe Mazzullo; Rosanna Visalli; Marco Quartuccio; Nicola Iannelli; Santo Cristarella; Maria Pennisi. 2021. "Bidimensional and Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography of the Spleen in Dogs Affected by Leishmaniosis." Animals 11, no. 5: 1437.
Aneuploidy originating during meiosis in oocytes is the major cause of reduced fertility, implantation failure and miscarriage in women beyond their mid-thirties. Loss of chromosome cohesion, and defective microtubule dynamics and spindle assembly are, in turn, the major contributors to the error-prone nature of chromosome segregation in the oocytes of older women. However, the underlying molecular defects are not well understood. Altered function of MPS1 and AURKC have been shown to induce multipolar spindle phenotypes in murine oocytes and cancer cells, however, their role in reproductive aging associated oocyte aneuploidy is not known. Although age-related gamete and embryonic aneuploidy has been studied in female rodents, the horse may be a more appropriate animal model. Similar to women, aged mares suffer from reduced fertility and an increased incidence of oocyte aneuploidy. Moreover, mares show a long interval (decades) to reproductive senescence and, unlike rodents but similar to women, horse oocytes assemble the meiotic spindle in a slow and unstable manner, independent of microtubule organizing centers. In this study we found that oocytes from aged mares have lower expression of mRNA for Mps1, Spc25 and AurkC than oocytes from young mares while gene expression for other meiosis regulators did not differ. To assess the ability of horse oocytes to correctly form a bipolar spindle, in vitro matured MII oocytes were allowed to re-form their spindle after nocodazole-induced microtubule depolymerization. To investigate the importance of MPS1 and AURKC function in spindle (re)assembly, various concentrations of a MPS1 inhibitor (MPS1i, Compound 5) or an AURK inhibitor (AURKi, ZM447439) were included after nocodazole washout. MII oocytes from aged mares showed a higher incidence of spindle abnormalities after exposure to MPS1i. In contrast, Aurora kinase inhibition severely impaired microtubule organization and spindle formation in all oocytes, irrespective of mare age. In conclusion, gene expression for the kinases Mps1, Spc25, and AurkC is reduced in oocytes from aged mares. Moreover, spindle (re)assembly in aged mares’ oocytes is more unstable when Mps1 is inhibited. Overall, this suggests that compromised Mps1 activity predisposes to meiotic spindle instability in aged mare oocytes. This spindle instability could predispose to chromosome segregation errors.
Marilena Rizzo; Tom A. E. Stout; Santo Cristarella; Marco Quartuccio; Geert J. P. L. Kops; Marta De Ruijter-Villani. Compromised MPS1 Activity Induces Multipolar Spindle Formation in Oocytes From Aged Mares: Establishing the Horse as a Natural Animal Model to Study Age-Induced Oocyte Meiotic Spindle Instability. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology 2021, 9, 1 .
AMA StyleMarilena Rizzo, Tom A. E. Stout, Santo Cristarella, Marco Quartuccio, Geert J. P. L. Kops, Marta De Ruijter-Villani. Compromised MPS1 Activity Induces Multipolar Spindle Formation in Oocytes From Aged Mares: Establishing the Horse as a Natural Animal Model to Study Age-Induced Oocyte Meiotic Spindle Instability. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology. 2021; 9 ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarilena Rizzo; Tom A. E. Stout; Santo Cristarella; Marco Quartuccio; Geert J. P. L. Kops; Marta De Ruijter-Villani. 2021. "Compromised MPS1 Activity Induces Multipolar Spindle Formation in Oocytes From Aged Mares: Establishing the Horse as a Natural Animal Model to Study Age-Induced Oocyte Meiotic Spindle Instability." Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology 9, no. : 1.
Sex-associated hormones such as testosterone have been demonstrated to modulate immune responses, which can result in different disease outcomes. The present study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone GnRH agonist implant as deslorelin acetate in association with meglumine antimoniate plus allopurinol in dogs with canine leishmaniosis (CanL). Twenty-two dogs with CanL confirmed by clinical findings and laboratory tests were included in the study. Dogs were randomized into two groups. A control group (CTR, n = 12) was treated with meglumine antimoniate 50 mg/kg SC q 12 h for 28 days plus allopurinol at 10 mg/kg PO q 12 h for the whole study period (six months). An experimental group was treated with allopurinol and meglumine antimoniate, plus an implant of 4.7 mg deslorelin acetate (DES, n = 10). The animals were observed for three months, during which clinical evaluation, indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) titre and testosterone assay were performed on time at day (D)0, 90 and 180. A significantly lower clinical score was recorded in DES than in CTR (p < 0.01) at D90 and D180 (p < 0.01). After 180 days of treatment (D180), a significant reduction of mean levels of IFAT was observed in the DES group (p = 0.03). A highly significant reduction of testosterone (p = 0.01) was observed in the DES group during the study. No statistical correlation between clinical scores, IFAT titres and testosterone within two groups was observed. Data suggested that the agonist of GnRH may be useful in the treatment of CanL.
Michela Pugliese; Vito Biondi; Marco Quartuccio; Santo Cristarella; Giovanni Emmanuele; Gabriele Marino; Luigi Liotta; Annamaria Passantino. Use of GnRH Agonist in Dogs Affected with Leishmaniosis. Animals 2021, 11, 432 .
AMA StyleMichela Pugliese, Vito Biondi, Marco Quartuccio, Santo Cristarella, Giovanni Emmanuele, Gabriele Marino, Luigi Liotta, Annamaria Passantino. Use of GnRH Agonist in Dogs Affected with Leishmaniosis. Animals. 2021; 11 (2):432.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMichela Pugliese; Vito Biondi; Marco Quartuccio; Santo Cristarella; Giovanni Emmanuele; Gabriele Marino; Luigi Liotta; Annamaria Passantino. 2021. "Use of GnRH Agonist in Dogs Affected with Leishmaniosis." Animals 11, no. 2: 432.
Marco Quartuccio; Esterina Fazio; Pietro Medica; Santo Cristarella; Giovanni Emmanuele; Letizia Sinagra; Luigi Liotta. Correlation between sperm parameters and circulating thyroid hormones and testosterone concentrations in Labrador Retriever dog. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2021, 20, 947 -954.
AMA StyleMarco Quartuccio, Esterina Fazio, Pietro Medica, Santo Cristarella, Giovanni Emmanuele, Letizia Sinagra, Luigi Liotta. Correlation between sperm parameters and circulating thyroid hormones and testosterone concentrations in Labrador Retriever dog. Italian Journal of Animal Science. 2021; 20 (1):947-954.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarco Quartuccio; Esterina Fazio; Pietro Medica; Santo Cristarella; Giovanni Emmanuele; Letizia Sinagra; Luigi Liotta. 2021. "Correlation between sperm parameters and circulating thyroid hormones and testosterone concentrations in Labrador Retriever dog." Italian Journal of Animal Science 20, no. 1: 947-954.
Several studies have recently investigated the birth weight of puppies from different pure-bred dogs. In general, birth weight decreased with litter size but there has been limited investigation into factors influencing growth during early development. The first month of life includes three stages of puppy development: neonatal (0–13 days), transitional (14–20 days), and first week of socialisation period (21–28 days). The aim of this study was to evaluate bodyweight and growth rate of 120 Labrador Retriever (LR) puppies during early development. Puppies from 19 show-line bitches under standardised composition of diet during pregnancy and lactation were involved in this study. Puppies were weighed weekly from birth to 28 days using an electronic digital balance. Relative weight gain (ΔW) was calculated for the neonatal period [ΔW1 = (Wday14-Wday0)/Wday0], transition period [ΔW2 = (Wday21-Wday14)/Wday14] and first week of socialisation period [ΔW2 = (Wday28-Wday21)/Wday21]. The effects of covariates on ΔW were assessed using generalised linear mixed models. Sex and photoperiod had no impact on relative weight gain, whereas litter size had a significant effect at ΔW1 (p < .01) but not at ΔW2 and at ΔW3. Relative weight gain was slightly lower in puppies from larger litter born during short photoperiod on ΔW1. A deeper knowledge of the factors that significantly influence weight gain during the first four weeks of life could be useful for physiological and behavioural science as well as for canine breeding management.
Daniela Alberghina; Mauro Gioè; Marco Quartuccio; Giovanni Majolino; Luigi Liotta. Puppy growth rate during early periods of labrador retriever development: role of litter size and photoperiod of birth. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2021, 20, 26 -32.
AMA StyleDaniela Alberghina, Mauro Gioè, Marco Quartuccio, Giovanni Majolino, Luigi Liotta. Puppy growth rate during early periods of labrador retriever development: role of litter size and photoperiod of birth. Italian Journal of Animal Science. 2021; 20 (1):26-32.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela Alberghina; Mauro Gioè; Marco Quartuccio; Giovanni Majolino; Luigi Liotta. 2021. "Puppy growth rate during early periods of labrador retriever development: role of litter size and photoperiod of birth." Italian Journal of Animal Science 20, no. 1: 26-32.
Pyometra is considered the most common disease in intact bitches, being associated with potentially life-threatening disorders. Myocardial damage is a potentially life-threatening consequence of pyometra. The aim of this study was to describe the electrocardiographic patterns in bitches affected by closed cervix pyometra, to assess the clinical relevance of electrocardiographic changes with the occurrence of pyometra, and to relate their severity with laboratory and clinical findings. A total of 39 bitches with closed cervix pyometra and 10 healthy female dogs were included in this study. During the hospitalization, bitches underwent a complete physical examination. An electrocardiographic examination before the ovariohysterectomy was performed. Blood samples for biochemical and hematological analysis were also evaluated. Bitches suffering pyometra at least one arrhythmia 31/39 (79.4%), sinus tachycardia (22/39, ÷56.4%), ventricular premature complexes (9/39, ÷23%), increased amplitude of T wave (7/39, ÷17.9%), ST depression (4/39, ÷10.2%), second-degree atrioventricular block (2/39, ÷5.1%), increase of QT interval (2/39, ÷5.1%), sinus bradycardia (2/39, ÷5.1%), and first-degree atrioventricular block (1/39, ÷2.5%). Some bitches were also detected with low wave amplitude (17/39, 43.5%). Cardiac arrhythmias associated with canine pyometra are frequent events. These data suggest that arrhythmias may be the consequence of one or more factors that can occur during pyometra, such as myocardial damage, electrolyte/metabolic disorders, and/or sepsis.
Michela Pugliese; Rocky La Maestra; Annamaria Passantino; Santo Cristarella; Massimo De Majo; Vito Biondi; Marco Quartuccio. Electrocardiographic Findings in Bitches Affected by Closed Cervix Pyometra. Veterinary Sciences 2020, 7, 183 .
AMA StyleMichela Pugliese, Rocky La Maestra, Annamaria Passantino, Santo Cristarella, Massimo De Majo, Vito Biondi, Marco Quartuccio. Electrocardiographic Findings in Bitches Affected by Closed Cervix Pyometra. Veterinary Sciences. 2020; 7 (4):183.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMichela Pugliese; Rocky La Maestra; Annamaria Passantino; Santo Cristarella; Massimo De Majo; Vito Biondi; Marco Quartuccio. 2020. "Electrocardiographic Findings in Bitches Affected by Closed Cervix Pyometra." Veterinary Sciences 7, no. 4: 183.
A 3-year-old Arabian mare underwent medical examinations due to the presence of abnormalities of the reproductive apparatus and stallion behavior (nervous temperament, aggressiveness, masculine attitude). During the clinical visit, an anovulvar distance shorter than normal was observed; moreover, vulvar lips were dorsally fused except for the lower neckline, showing a blind ending from which a penis-like structure protruded. The ultrasound examination revealed the presence of a cervix and corpus of a uterus, hypoplastic uterine horns, and small gonads with an echogenicity similar to a testis. Blood testosterone levels ranged from 0.4 to 0.6 ng/mL. Cytogenetic analysis showed a normal female karyotype (2n = 64,XX), while PCR amplification of SRY and ZFY genes revealed the absence of a Y chromosome. At necroscopic examination, internal genitalia arising from the genital ridge in the form of masculine type structures were found, while those deriving from the Mullerian ducts were of feminine type. In addition, an infundibular portion of the salpinx at the cranial pole of the gonads was found. This is the first case in equine species of DSD 2n = 64,XX SRY-negative, with the simultaneous presence of male (hypoplastic testicles, epididymal portions, and a penis-like structure) and female (cervix, horn and body of a hypoplastic uterus) genital structures.
Vincenzo Peretti; Katiuska Satué; Francesca Ciotola; Santo Cristarella; Massimo De Majo; Vito Biondi; Emanuele D’Anza; Sara Albarella; Marco Quartuccio. An Unusual Case of Testicular Disorder in Sex Development of Arabian Mare (64,XX SRY-Negative). Animals 2020, 10, 1963 .
AMA StyleVincenzo Peretti, Katiuska Satué, Francesca Ciotola, Santo Cristarella, Massimo De Majo, Vito Biondi, Emanuele D’Anza, Sara Albarella, Marco Quartuccio. An Unusual Case of Testicular Disorder in Sex Development of Arabian Mare (64,XX SRY-Negative). Animals. 2020; 10 (11):1963.
Chicago/Turabian StyleVincenzo Peretti; Katiuska Satué; Francesca Ciotola; Santo Cristarella; Massimo De Majo; Vito Biondi; Emanuele D’Anza; Sara Albarella; Marco Quartuccio. 2020. "An Unusual Case of Testicular Disorder in Sex Development of Arabian Mare (64,XX SRY-Negative)." Animals 10, no. 11: 1963.
In cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH)–pyometra syndrome, toxic factors and endometrial remodeling culminate in changes characterized by exudative and degenerative inflammatory reaction. Recent studies on hemodynamic found an increased blood flow and lower vascular resistance in uterine arteries, suggesting color Doppler ultrasound as an adjunctive tool for quantitative assessment of endometrial vascularization during pyometra. The aim of this study was to assess, through contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) exam, the vascularization in endometrial microvessels in CEH-pyometra in order to evaluate the possibility of application in this syndrome. In twelve female dogs with clinical symptoms related to pyometra, B-mode, color Doppler and CEUS exams were performed. In CEH-pyometra uteri, histopathological examination revealed severe CEH and pyometra, immunohistochemical stain with CD 34 confirmed the presence of angiogenesis. CEUS exams revealed a widespread, intense and rapidly developing homogeneous enhancement of the hyperplastic endometrium, with absence of signal only in cystic areas. All parameters of the quantitative analysis were not significantly influenced by region of interest dimension and position. CEUS has the potential to improve clinical not invasive evaluations in the CEH-pyometra syndrome and virtually in CEH-mucometra.
Marco Quartuccio; Luigi Liotta; Santo Cristarella; Giovanni Lanteri; Antonio Ieni; Tiziana D’Arrigo; Massimo De Majo. Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia–Pyometra Complex in the Bitch: A Preliminary Study. Animals 2020, 10, 1368 .
AMA StyleMarco Quartuccio, Luigi Liotta, Santo Cristarella, Giovanni Lanteri, Antonio Ieni, Tiziana D’Arrigo, Massimo De Majo. Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia–Pyometra Complex in the Bitch: A Preliminary Study. Animals. 2020; 10 (8):1368.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarco Quartuccio; Luigi Liotta; Santo Cristarella; Giovanni Lanteri; Antonio Ieni; Tiziana D’Arrigo; Massimo De Majo. 2020. "Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia–Pyometra Complex in the Bitch: A Preliminary Study." Animals 10, no. 8: 1368.
The aim of the study was to assess the physiological reference values for systemic and intrafollicular placental growth factor (PlGF) concentrations in different categories of follicular sizes in cycling mares, according to progesterone (P4) and oestradiol (E2) patterns. Sixty ovaries were taken after slaughter from 30 clinically healthy mares. Regarding their size, the follicles were classified into three different categories, i.e. small (20–30 mm), medium-sized (31–40 mm) and large (≥41 mm), and follicular fluid (FF) was sampled from each single follicle. Intrafollicular PlGF concentrations were significantly increased in larger and medium-sized follicles compared to small follicles, and their values were 1.48 and 1.36 times higher than the systemic values, respectively. On the other hand, systemic PlGF concentrations were 1.3 times higher than those in the FF of follicles of small size. Intrafollicular P4 concentrations were significantly higher in larger follicles than in small ones, and their concentrations were 6.74 and 3.42 times higher than the systemic values, respectively. Intrafollicular E2 concentrations were significantly higher in large and medium-sized follicles than in follicles of small size, and their concentrations were 21.1, 15.4 and 8.35 times higher than the systemic values, respectively. Intrafollicular and systemic PlGF concentrations were strongly and positively correlated; nevertheless, no correlations between intrafollicular and systemic steroid hormones, PlGF and follicle diameters, PlGF and E2, or PlGF and P4 were observed. This represents the first study to characterise systemic and intrafollicular PlGF concentrations in cycling normal mares, providing evidence that the bioavailability of this factor in follicles of medium and large sizes was higher than in small follicles, independently of steroid hormone concentrations. Further studies are needed to assess the presumable implications of PlGF in follicular angiogenesis in mares, similar to those already observed in women and primates.
Katiuska Satué; Esterina Fazio; Cristina Cravana; Marco Quartuccio; Maria Marcilla; Pietro Medica. Functional response of systemic and intrafollicular placental growth factor in cycling mares. Acta Veterinaria Hungarica 2020, 68, 200 -206.
AMA StyleKatiuska Satué, Esterina Fazio, Cristina Cravana, Marco Quartuccio, Maria Marcilla, Pietro Medica. Functional response of systemic and intrafollicular placental growth factor in cycling mares. Acta Veterinaria Hungarica. 2020; 68 (2):200-206.
Chicago/Turabian StyleKatiuska Satué; Esterina Fazio; Cristina Cravana; Marco Quartuccio; Maria Marcilla; Pietro Medica. 2020. "Functional response of systemic and intrafollicular placental growth factor in cycling mares." Acta Veterinaria Hungarica 68, no. 2: 200-206.
Since in the mare and other animal species such as bitches and cats, the endometrial cell pattern varies depending on the phase of the estrous cycle, the aim of this study was to describe and quantify the endometrial cytological (EC) findings in cycling jennies. EC of eight nonpregnant jennies by cytobrush (CB) at diestrus (day 1 and day 14) and estrous (day 21) were evaluated. All slides were stained with Wright´s stain and microscopically examined at both 400× and 1000× magnification. Seven high-power fields (400×) were assessed in each smear and the endometrial epithelial cells and neutrophils (PMNs) were counted. Endometrial epithelial cells were classified as intact, distorted or fragmented and, on the basis of the presence of dense groups, in monolayer or single clusters. Cytoplasmic characteristics, such as vacuolation or streaming and size, form, position of nuclear characteristics, including karyorrhexis, were recorded. Background aspect, as clear, proteinaceous, or debris, was also considered. In general, sampling by CB provided a yield of cells and clumped endometrial epithelial cells in many smears, being more abundant in estrus than early and late diestrus. Individual endometrial epithelial cells, during estrous, presented a columnar morphology, ciliated or not ciliated and basal nuclei. During diestrus phase, endometrial epithelial cells presented a more cuboidal ciliated or not ciliated morphology. Moderate amount of proteinacious material and red blood cells (RBC) was also observed. Non variation in the percentage of PMNs during diestrus was obtained, but lower and segmented PMNs in CB smears were shown in estrous. This study provides new insights on the physiological changes of endometrial epithelial cells in cycling jennies during the estrus cycle. The CB technique represents a suitable and adequate method for endometrial evaluation, taking into account cytological and/or cytopathological purposes also in jennies.
Marco Quartuccio; Santo Cristarella; Pietro Medica; Esterina Fazio; Giuseppe Mazzullo; Claudia Rifici; Luigi Liotta; Katiuska Satué. Endometrial Cytology During the Different Phases of the Estrous Cycle in Jennies: New Evidences. Animals 2020, 10, 1062 .
AMA StyleMarco Quartuccio, Santo Cristarella, Pietro Medica, Esterina Fazio, Giuseppe Mazzullo, Claudia Rifici, Luigi Liotta, Katiuska Satué. Endometrial Cytology During the Different Phases of the Estrous Cycle in Jennies: New Evidences. Animals. 2020; 10 (6):1062.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarco Quartuccio; Santo Cristarella; Pietro Medica; Esterina Fazio; Giuseppe Mazzullo; Claudia Rifici; Luigi Liotta; Katiuska Satué. 2020. "Endometrial Cytology During the Different Phases of the Estrous Cycle in Jennies: New Evidences." Animals 10, no. 6: 1062.
In view of the important progress made in veterinary science and the increasing availability of new reproductive technologies in the 21st century, demand for canine artificial insemination (CAI) for medical and/or breeding management reasons is growing worldwide resulting in raising some legal and ethical concerns. Currently, imported chilled and frozen semen from European countries can be sold to the final consumer with no strings attached. To compound this problem, the importation in Europe has no bio-security procedures. Given the potential role of this canine semen’s movements in spreading of bacterial (i.e. leptospirosis), parasitic (i.e. leishmaniasis), viral (i.e. canine herpesvirus) or genetic (i.e. progressive retinal atrophy) diseases from one state to another, the authors propose the application of regulatory measures regarding importation and exportation of semen in order to secure animal welfare and health. They underline that the interests and welfare of puppies that will be born as well as the health and welfare of bitches and sperm donors should be respected. For these reasons, ethical implications related to the use of canine semen should be taken into account.
Marco Quartuccio; Vito Biondi; Luigi Liotta; Annamaria Passantino. Legislative and ethical aspects on use of canine artificial insemination in the 21st century. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2020, 19, 630 -643.
AMA StyleMarco Quartuccio, Vito Biondi, Luigi Liotta, Annamaria Passantino. Legislative and ethical aspects on use of canine artificial insemination in the 21st century. Italian Journal of Animal Science. 2020; 19 (1):630-643.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarco Quartuccio; Vito Biondi; Luigi Liotta; Annamaria Passantino. 2020. "Legislative and ethical aspects on use of canine artificial insemination in the 21st century." Italian Journal of Animal Science 19, no. 1: 630-643.
Marco Quartuccio; Santo Cristarella; Andrea Scrofani; Vito Biondi; Massimo De Majo; Cornelia Mannarino; Cristina Cravana; Pietro Medica; Esterina Fazio. The sperm of Apis mellifera siciliana and Apis mellifera ligustica: A preliminary and comparative note. Journal of Apicultural Research 2020, 59, 1011 -1016.
AMA StyleMarco Quartuccio, Santo Cristarella, Andrea Scrofani, Vito Biondi, Massimo De Majo, Cornelia Mannarino, Cristina Cravana, Pietro Medica, Esterina Fazio. The sperm of Apis mellifera siciliana and Apis mellifera ligustica: A preliminary and comparative note. Journal of Apicultural Research. 2020; 59 (5):1011-1016.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMarco Quartuccio; Santo Cristarella; Andrea Scrofani; Vito Biondi; Massimo De Majo; Cornelia Mannarino; Cristina Cravana; Pietro Medica; Esterina Fazio. 2020. "The sperm of Apis mellifera siciliana and Apis mellifera ligustica: A preliminary and comparative note." Journal of Apicultural Research 59, no. 5: 1011-1016.
Esterina Fazio; Cristina Cravana; Pietro Medica; Marco Quartuccio; Simona Tripodina; Katiuska Satué. A Wide Range of Endocrine and Hematochemical Changes in the Reproductive Process of Early Pregnant Mares. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 2019, 73, 63 -69.
AMA StyleEsterina Fazio, Cristina Cravana, Pietro Medica, Marco Quartuccio, Simona Tripodina, Katiuska Satué. A Wide Range of Endocrine and Hematochemical Changes in the Reproductive Process of Early Pregnant Mares. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 2019; 73 ():63-69.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEsterina Fazio; Cristina Cravana; Pietro Medica; Marco Quartuccio; Simona Tripodina; Katiuska Satué. 2019. "A Wide Range of Endocrine and Hematochemical Changes in the Reproductive Process of Early Pregnant Mares." Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 73, no. : 63-69.
Dysgerminomas are infrequent neoplasms resulting from undifferentiated germinal cells, mainly observed in the bitch. Our case describes for the first time a dysgerminoma related splenic metastasis in a bitch. A 14-year-old crossbred bitch was admitted at our facility with a 3-month history of irregular oestrous cycle, vulvar swelling, haemorrhagic vaginal discharge, lethargy and anorexia. Cytological examination showed the presence of superficial epithelial cells of the vaginal mucosa with a high degree of cornification. Vaginoscopy showed the typical pale and crenulated mucosal folds (oestrus). Haematological analysis indicated moderate anaemia and leukocytosis, and increased level of oestrogen. Ultrasound examination showed a mass located caudally to the kidney in the region of the right ovary. Abdominal and thoracic radiographs confirmed the findings and did not reveal metastases. Suspecting an ovarian tumour, we decided to perform a complete ovariohysterectomy. Once located, the right ovary presented an increased volume, irregular shape and reddish colour. Samples collected during the procedure were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and observed under optical microscope. The cells were characterized by a scant cytoplasm, a large vesicle type nucleus with coarsely granular chromatin and distinct cell borders. The neoplastic cells were remarkably similar to those of a testicular seminoma, allowing for the diagnosis of ovarian dysgerminoma. Two years after the ovariohysterectomy, the owner reported history of increased volume of the abdomen and lethargy. A second surgery was performed during which an irregular splenic mass was found. The morphological diagnosis was “splenic metastasis of dysgerminoma”. To the authors' knowledge, dysgerminoma related splenic metastasis was never described in the bitch before.
Filippo Spadola; Giovanna Lucrezia Costa; Marco Quartuccio; Marcello Musicò; Claudia Interlandi; Santo Cristarella. Splenic metastasis in a bitch affected by an ovarian dysgerminoma - a case report. Acta Veterinaria Brno 2018, 87, 219 -223.
AMA StyleFilippo Spadola, Giovanna Lucrezia Costa, Marco Quartuccio, Marcello Musicò, Claudia Interlandi, Santo Cristarella. Splenic metastasis in a bitch affected by an ovarian dysgerminoma - a case report. Acta Veterinaria Brno. 2018; 87 (3):219-223.
Chicago/Turabian StyleFilippo Spadola; Giovanna Lucrezia Costa; Marco Quartuccio; Marcello Musicò; Claudia Interlandi; Santo Cristarella. 2018. "Splenic metastasis in a bitch affected by an ovarian dysgerminoma - a case report." Acta Veterinaria Brno 87, no. 3: 219-223.
Advanced mare age is associated with declining fertility and an increased risk of early pregnancy loss. Compromised oocyte quality is probably the primary reason for reduced fertility, but the defects predisposing to embryonic death are unknown. In women, advanced age predisposes to chromosome segregation errors during meiosis, which lead to embryonic aneuploidy and a heightened risk of miscarriage. To evaluate the effect of advanced mare age on chromosome alignment and meiotic spindle morphology in in vitro‐matured (IVM) oocytes. Morphometric and morphological analysis. To investigate differences in spindle organisation and chromosome alignment between young and old mares, oocytes collected from slaughtered mares were divided into two groups depending on mare age (young, ≤14 years and old, ≥16 years), IVM and stained to visualise chromatin and alpha‐tubulin. Spindle morphology, morphometry and chromosome (mis)alignment were evaluated by confocal microscopy and 3D image analysis. Oocytes from old mares showed a higher incidence of chromosome misalignment (47.4% vs. 4.5%; P<0.001) and a thicker metaphase plate (mean ± s.d.: 5.8 ± 1.0 μm vs. 4.9 ± 0.9 μm; P = 0.04) than oocytes from young mares. Although no differences in spindle morphometry were detected between old and young mares, an increased major spindle axis length was associated with chromosome misalignment (mean ± s.d.: 25.3 ± 6.1 μm vs. 20.8 ± 3.3 μm; P = 0.01) irrespective of age. The oocytes were IVM and may not exactly reflect chromosome misalignment in vivo. Advanced mare age predisposes to chromosome misalignment on the metaphase II spindle of IVM oocytes. The compromised ability to correctly align chromosomes presumably predisposes to aneuploidy in resulting embryos and thereby contributes to the age‐related decline in fertility and increased incidence of early pregnancy loss. The Summary is available in Portuguese – see Supporting Information
M. Rizzo; K. D. Ducheyne; C. Deelen; M. Beitsma; Santo Cristarella; M. Quartuccio; T. A. E. Stout; M. De Ruijter-Villani. Advanced mare age impairs the ability of in vitro‐matured oocytes to correctly align chromosomes on the metaphase plate. Equine Veterinary Journal 2018, 51, 252 -257.
AMA StyleM. Rizzo, K. D. Ducheyne, C. Deelen, M. Beitsma, Santo Cristarella, M. Quartuccio, T. A. E. Stout, M. De Ruijter-Villani. Advanced mare age impairs the ability of in vitro‐matured oocytes to correctly align chromosomes on the metaphase plate. Equine Veterinary Journal. 2018; 51 (2):252-257.
Chicago/Turabian StyleM. Rizzo; K. D. Ducheyne; C. Deelen; M. Beitsma; Santo Cristarella; M. Quartuccio; T. A. E. Stout; M. De Ruijter-Villani. 2018. "Advanced mare age impairs the ability of in vitro‐matured oocytes to correctly align chromosomes on the metaphase plate." Equine Veterinary Journal 51, no. 2: 252-257.
Testicular tumours are the most common neoplasms of the genital system in male dogs. The three main types reported in dogs are interstitial cell tumour, seminoma and Sertoli cell tumour. Interstitial cell tumour is related to the presence of single or multiple nodules inside the testicular parenchyma, and it is detected by palpation or is often an incidental finding during ultrasonography examination. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound allows characterisation of the perfusion of the testicular lesion and reveals the micro-vascularisation; however, perfusion parameters may be strongly influenced by sedative drug administration, so our aim was to evaluate qualitative and quantitative perfusion of a single type of tumour (interstitial cell tumour) with contrast-enhanced ultrasound in conscious dogs to exclude any influence of pharmacological agents on vascular flow. Thirty dogs with focal testicular lesions found by palpation and/or by ultrasound (B-mode and Doppler) examination were selected; contrast-enhanced ultrasound was performed only in subjects that presented testicular focal lesions. After orchiectomy, testes were submitted to histological evaluation; 2-minute clips recorded during contrast-enhanced ultrasound were analysed only in the case of dogs with interstitial cell tumours (n = 12). Contrast medium showed wash-in at around 25–30 seconds, at the same time as the surrounding tissue: lesions were hyperenhancing, homogeneous or inhomogeneous with rim enhancement and contained prominent inner vessels; however, enhancement of small regions was absent. Quantitative analysis demonstrated significantly higher PI% (P = 0.005), regional blood volume (P = 0.02) and regional blood flow (P = 0.007) values in lesions than in surrounding tissue; no differences were found for time-to-peak and mean transit time. In conclusion, the contrast-enhanced ultrasound pattern observed in conscious non-sedated dogs with interstitial cell tumour was similar to the pattern described in a previous study in dogs after intramuscular administration of medetomidine (10 µg/kg) and butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg).
M. Quartuccio; C. Mangano; F. Macri; M. Rizzo; S. Di Pietro; M. Pugliese; G. Mazzullo; Santo Cristarella; M. De Majo. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound evaluation of testicular interstitial cell tumours in conscious non-sedated dogs. Veterinární Medicína 2018, 63, 125 -130.
AMA StyleM. Quartuccio, C. Mangano, F. Macri, M. Rizzo, S. Di Pietro, M. Pugliese, G. Mazzullo, Santo Cristarella, M. De Majo. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound evaluation of testicular interstitial cell tumours in conscious non-sedated dogs. Veterinární Medicína. 2018; 63 (No. 3):125-130.
Chicago/Turabian StyleM. Quartuccio; C. Mangano; F. Macri; M. Rizzo; S. Di Pietro; M. Pugliese; G. Mazzullo; Santo Cristarella; M. De Majo. 2018. "Contrast-enhanced ultrasound evaluation of testicular interstitial cell tumours in conscious non-sedated dogs." Veterinární Medicína 63, no. No. 3: 125-130.
E Fazio; A Ferlazzo; S Cristarella; P Medica; G Marino; Marco Quartuccio. The stress response of Ragusano donkey (Equus asinus) to different semen collection techniques. Polish Journal of Veterinary Sciences 2017, 20, 669 -676.
AMA StyleE Fazio, A Ferlazzo, S Cristarella, P Medica, G Marino, Marco Quartuccio. The stress response of Ragusano donkey (Equus asinus) to different semen collection techniques. Polish Journal of Veterinary Sciences. 2017; 20 (4):669-676.
Chicago/Turabian StyleE Fazio; A Ferlazzo; S Cristarella; P Medica; G Marino; Marco Quartuccio. 2017. "The stress response of Ragusano donkey (Equus asinus) to different semen collection techniques." Polish Journal of Veterinary Sciences 20, no. 4: 669-676.