Pietro Medica - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Pietro Medica
Veterinary World
Background and Aim: Toxoplasma gondii is a global zoonotic parasite infecting virtually all warm-... more Background and Aim: Toxoplasma gondii is a global zoonotic parasite infecting virtually all warm-blooded species, although a species-specific variability is evident referring to symptoms frame. Both the success of T. gondii and the outcome of infection depend on a delicate balance between host cellular pathways and the evasion or modulation strategies elicited by the parasite. The hormonal and molecular mechanisms involved in this delicate host-parasite balance are still unclear, especially when considering intermediate host species other than mouse. This study aimed to assess any correlation between T. gondii infection and selected molecular and hormonal factors involved in responses to infection in susceptible species such as swine. Moreover, blood counts and hematochemical assays (glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides dosage) were performed to evaluate the overall health condition of animals. Materials and Methods: Toxoplasmosis was diagnosed by enzyme-linked immunosorben...
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science
Animals
The study examined the effects of different stages of pregnancy and lactation on thyroid, insulin... more The study examined the effects of different stages of pregnancy and lactation on thyroid, insulin, and glucose responses in dairy cows. In the present study, 30 dairy cows (10 Holstein, 10 Simmental, and 10 Brown) at 30 ± 20 d of lactation were randomly selected and blood samples were collected once every 60 d for one year to measure circulating thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), total and free triiodothyronines (T3, fT3) and thyroxines (T4, fT4), insulin, and glucose. Pregnant cows showed higher T4 (p = 0.010) and insulin (p = 0.046) concentrations at >180 d than at >60–120 d of pregnancy and in nonpregnant cows. Along the lactation phase, circulating T4 concentrations showed a biphasic trend, decreasing from 0–60 d to >60–120 d phase, which showed the lowest values, and then increasing until the end of lactation (>300 d) (p = 0.016). Glucose showed the highest concentrations at the start of lactation (0–120 days) and the lowest values at the end (p = 0.008). The monito...
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2021
This study examined how a standard exercise test (SET) affected (1) thyroid hormones (THs) of hor... more This study examined how a standard exercise test (SET) affected (1) thyroid hormones (THs) of horses and (2) the relationship between the VLa4 of horses and TH responses to the exercise in trained Standardbred racehorses (VLa4 is the velocity run at defined conditions at which a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol/L is determined). 12 trained Standardbred racehorses (six stallions and six mares) performed SETs until the horses' blood lactate concentration was at or above 4 mmol/L. The horses were divided into three age groups (2, 3 and 4 years old); each group consists of 4 horses respectively (2 male and 2 female), to evaluate the effects of age and sex on hormonal responses to SET. During each SET, blood samples were taken at rest and after each interval and at the end of SET. Blood was analysed for total and free triiodothyronine (T3, fT3) as well as total and free thyroxine (T4, fT4). The statistical model included three fixed factors (SET, sex and age) and their main interactions. ANOVA analysis revealed that T3 and fT3 were significantly influenced by SETs. Plasma T3 and fT3 concentrations were higher in 4-year-old horses compared to the other age groups. All plasma THs concentrations were higher in mares than in stallions. Correlations revealed that a higher VLa4 was negatively related to all THs responses in 2-year-old Standardbred mares only. The SET used to determine VLa4 increased selected THs (T3, fT3); these increases were inversely related to VLa4 and affected by age and sex of the horses. The correlation of VLa4 with thyroid exercise' response might provide some additional information for performance evaluation of Standardbred racehorses, especially for evaluating training adaptation, according to sex and age. Further studies are necessary to provide support on the value of measuring THs in Standardbred racehorses of different sex and age.
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2020
The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that age and sex significantly modulate the ... more The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that age and sex significantly modulate the changes in hematological parameters of physiologically healthy Spanish Purebred horse, establishing the reference values. Blood samples were obtained on a total of 159 horses (n = 77 males and n = 82 females), classified in four age groups: group A (1-2 years; n = 39), group B (>2-3 years; n = 38), group C (>3-4 years; n = 41), and group D (>4-7 years; n = 41). By means ADVIA 2020i, red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (HB), packed cell volume, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, platelets (PLTs), as well as total and differential white blood cells (WBCs) were determined. Total plasma protein was determined by spectrophotometry. Results obtained showed that sex had a limited influence on these parameters, being the HB higher in males and WBC higher in females (P = .047). Age caused a reduction in RBC, with a compensatory increase of MCV and MCH, decrease in WBC, PLT, lymphocytes (LYMPs), as well as an increase of N/L ratio (P = .047). Interactions between age and sex showed higher RBC in males than in females of the group B, and higher HB and WBC in males than in females of the group D. According to hematological data, Spanish Purebred horse was classified as a warm- or cold-blooded horse. Decline of RBC, WBC, and PLT parameters is a natural condition of horse with the advance of age, indicating a decrease of the narrow bone response.
Slovenian Veterinary Research, 2017
North-eastern Sicily is an area with iodine deficiency disorders occurring in both humans and ani... more North-eastern Sicily is an area with iodine deficiency disorders occurring in both humans and animals. The aim of this study was to test the influences of an endemic goitre area on iodothyronine ranges and their pattern in adult ovine and caprine specimens stabled in different locations of Sicily, taking into account the different sexes. A total of 48 Comisana sheep and 51 Maltese goats was studied. The sheep included 10 females and 6 males stabled in a non-endemic goitre area (farm A: control group), and 16 females and 16 males stabled in an endemic goitre area (farm B: observational group). The goats included 6 females and 13 males stabled in a non-endemic goitre area (farm A: control group), and 16 females and 16 males stabled in an endemic goitre area (Farm B: observational group). The results showed lower T3 and higher fT4 (P < 0,0001), ki so bili nastanjeni na kmetiji B v primerjavi s kmetijo A. V primerjavi s kmetijo A so pri kozah, ki so bile nastanjene na kmetiji B, ugot...
Acta Scientiae Veterinariae, 2014
Background: Weaning period is considered a crucial event in the management of ewes and lambs, res... more Background: Weaning period is considered a crucial event in the management of ewes and lambs, resulting in a number of signifi cant challenges. Although multiple stresses signifi cantly affected adaptative capability of ewes in terms of changes in physiological mechanisms insuffi cient knowledges are available to understand the adrenocortical and functional responses of lambs to adapt to weaning stress. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of weaning associated with maternal separation on circulating cortisol concentrations, respiratory rate and rectal temperature changes after the fi rst 24 h weaning period and 2 weeks later in cross-bred lambs. Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-four cross-bred lambs were assigned randomly to two treatments: 17 (unstressed control group) were housed in standard farming conditions with their mothers and 17 lambs (treated group) were submitted to weaning and separation from maternal care. Both groups were studied and ...
Animals, 2020
The hypothesis of this study was to investigate if the presence of corpus luteum (CL) in one ovar... more The hypothesis of this study was to investigate if the presence of corpus luteum (CL) in one ovary could modify the hormonal content of follicular fluid (FF) in the follicles. Sixty ovaries were taken after the slaughter of 30 clinically healthy mares. In relation to the sizes, the follicles were classified into three different categories, as small (20–30 mm), medium (31–40 mm) and large (≥41 mm). Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of mares before their slaughter, and then the FF samplings were extracted from each single follicle. The ovaries that were collected were classified into two groups, according to the presence (CL-bearing) or absence (non-CL-bearing) of CL. The serum and FF samples were analysed for progesterone (P4), oestradiol-17β (E2), testosterone (T), androstenedione (A4) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Intrafollicular P4 concentrations in large follicles of CL-bearing groups were lower than for non-CL-bearing ones. Intrafollicular E2 concentrations...
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2019
This is a PDF file of an article that has undergone enhancements after acceptance, such as the ad... more This is a PDF file of an article that has undergone enhancements after acceptance, such as the addition of a cover page and metadata, and formatting for readability, but it is not yet the definitive version of record. This version will undergo additional copyediting, typesetting and review before it is published in its final form, but we are providing this version to give early visibility of the article. Please note that, during the production process, errors may be discovered which could affect the content, and all legal disclaimers that apply to the journal pertain.
Acta Scientiae Veterinariae, 2017
Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the asse... more Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the assessment of stress levels throughout living environments, contributing to avoid side effects to well-being in domestic animals, including pets. Cortisol represents the most important glucocorticoid found in felis and it is frequently used as standard marker in stress research. The purpose of the present study was to compare the adrenal and haematological patterns of cats, by taking into account the effects of different housing’s systems. The hypothesis was to find a different coping strategies, according to different housings.Materials, Methods & Results: For this study a total of 50 cats were selected on the basis of the breed: European domestic short hair cats, age ranged between 22 and 30 months and housing’s systems, represented by cattery and/or households, respectively. On these basis, cats were distinguished into two groups, represented by group A: 22 cats living in cattery, and gro...
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2019
The aim of this study was to verify the existence of possible crosstalk between biochemical conte... more The aim of this study was to verify the existence of possible crosstalk between biochemical contents of follicular fluid (FF) and systemic concentrations according to the follicular development of the metabolites: glucose (GLU), lactate (LACT), cholesterol (CHOL), triglycerides (TG), total bilirubin (T BIL), urea (BUN) and creatinine (CREAT); enzymatic activities: gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST); electrolytes: calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), sodium (Na), chloride (Cl), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg) and iron (Fe); total proteins (TP) and their fractions: albumin (ALB), α1-, α2-, β and γ-globulins (GLOB) of FF and blood strain and their correlations with follicular size in cycling mares. Systemic concentrations of GLU, T BIL, BUN, Fe, TP, ALB, α-1 and α-2 and δ-GLOB and of ALP, GGT and AST activities were higher than in the FF (P < 0.05); LACT, CHOL and TG were higher in FF than systemic ones (P < 0.05). GLU, CHOL, TG, LACT and T BIL were higher in large follicles than in medium and small follicles (P < 0.05); however, BUN, Fe, ALP and AST were lower in large follicles than in medium or small follicles (P < 0.05). ALP, GGT and AST activities decreased in medium and large follicles compared to small follicles (P < 0.05). These results suggest that the metabolic, enzymatic, electrolytic and protein composition of FF of growing follicles could occur according to the blood stream changes; hence, it is possible to presume that the nutritional environment of oocyte and follicular cells could improve the clinical diagnoses of infertility in the mare.
Veterinary World, 2017
Aim: To investigate the effects of training sessions on circulating β-endorphin changes in sport ... more Aim: To investigate the effects of training sessions on circulating β-endorphin changes in sport horses before and after competition and to ascertain whether competition would affect this response. Materials and Methods: A total of 24 trained jumping horses were randomly assigned to one of two training groups: Group A (competing) and Group B (not competing). To determined plasma β-endorphin concentrations, two pre-and postcompetition training weeks at aerobic workout and two competitive show jumping event days at anaerobic workout were measured before, 5 and 30 min after exercise. Exercise intensity is described using lactate concentrations and heart rate. The circuit design, intensity, and duration of training sessions were the same for both groups. Results: In Group A, one-way analysis of variance for repeated measures (RM-ANOVA) showed significant effects of exercise on β-endorphin changes (F=14.41; p<0.001), only in the post-competition training sessions, while in Group B showed no significant effects. Two-way RM-ANOVA showed, after post-competition training sessions, a significant difference between Group A and Group B (F=6.235; p=0.023), with higher β-endorphin changes in Group A, compared to Group B. During the competitive show jumping sessions, one-way RM ANOVA showed significant effects of exercise on β-endorphin changes (F=51.10; p<0.001). The statistical analysis, in Group A, showed a significant difference between postcompetition training and competitive exercise (F=6.32; p=0.024) with higher β-endorphin values in competitive sessions compared to those of post-competition training. Conclusion: Lactate concentrations seem to be the main factors being correlated with the raise of β-endorphin during anaerobic exercise of competitive events. Exercise of low intensity, as well as that one of training sessions, does not appear to stimulate a significant increased release of β-endorphin and it may depend on the duration of the exercise program. Moreover, the responses during exercise in the course of post-competition training sessions seem to be significantly different from those the pre-competition training. These data show that the preliminary competitive stress induced additional significant changes of β-endorphin pattern. It would reflect the need of a long-lasting modulation of fatigue and pain perception related to the effect of an additional physical and mental effort for the consecutive competitive and training sessions.
Veterinary World, 2016
The changes of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis response to a long distance transpor... more The changes of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis response to a long distance transportation results in increase of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol levels. The purpose of the study was to quantify the level of short-term road transport stress on circulating ACTH and cortisol concentrations, related to the effect of previous handling and transport experience of horses. Materials and Methods: The study was performed on 56 healthy horses after short-term road transport of 30 km. The horses were divided into four groups, Groups A, B, C, and D, with respect to the handling quality: Good (Groups A and B), bad (Group D), and minimal handling (Group C) conditions. According to the previous transport, experience horses were divided as follows: Horses of Groups A and D had been experienced long-distance transportation before; horses of Groups B and C had been limited experience of transportation. Results: One-way RM-ANOVA showed significant effects of transport on ACTH changes in Groups B and C and on cortisol changes in both Groups A and B. Groups A and B showed lower baseline ACTH and cortisol values than Groups C and D; Groups A and B showed lower post-transport ACTH values than Groups C and D. Groups A, B, and C showed lower post-transport cortisol values than Group D. Only Groups A and B horses have shown an adequate capacity of stress response to transportation. Conclusion: The previous transport experience and quality of handling could influence the HPA axis physiological responses of horses after short-term road transport.
Veterinary Research Communications, 2011
The aim of this study was to provide basal values of phospholipid (PL) composition in different a... more The aim of this study was to provide basal values of phospholipid (PL) composition in different animal species by 31 P NMR analysis using detergents. This fast and accurate method allowed a quantitative analysis of PLs without any previous separation. Plasma and erythrocyte membrane PLs were investigated in mammals (pig, cow, horse). Moreover, for the first time, the composition of plasma PLs in avian (chicken and ostrich) was performed by 31 P NMR. Significant qualitative and quantitative interspecies differences in plasma PL levels were found. Phosphatidilcholine (PC) and sphingomyelin (SPH) levels were significantly higher (P<0.001) in chicken plasma than all the other species tested. In erythrocytes, cow PC and phosphatidylcholine diarachidoyl were significantly lower (P<0.001) than for pigs and horses, whereas pig PC presented intermediate values among cows and horses. Inorganic phosphate and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate levels were also significantly different between the species under investigation. The [SPH/total PLs] molar ratios in erythrocytes confirmed interspecies differences in phospholipid composition while the PC/SPH molar ratios could be related to a distinct erythrocyte flexibility and aggregability. Diet and nutrition may contribute
Veterinary Research Communications, 2005
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the e¡ect of long-distance road transport as a relevant... more The purpose of this study was to evaluate the e¡ect of long-distance road transport as a relevant stressor on total and free iodothyronines, cortisol levels and haematocrit values in 10 male Limousin cattle. Serum T 3 , T 4 , fT 3 , fT 4 and cortisol concentrations were analysed by immunoenzymatic assays. Serum cortisol levels and haematocrit modi¢cations were also evaluated on the basis of percentage body weight decrease. The results showed a general increase of total and free iodothyronines and cortisol levels after short-and long-distance road transport and a decrease 15 days after transport, as compared to basal values. Signi¢cant positive correlations between T 3 and T 4 , between T 3 and fT 3 , and between T 4 and fT 4 were found. These results suggest that transport stress induces an increase in the activity of thyroid and adrenal function in Limousin cattle that is evident after even a short-distance road transport and continues to increase after long-distance transport.
Veterinary Research Communications, 2003
Livestock Science, 2011
... nmol/L (Fig. 1). 4. Discussion. Circulating cortisol concentrations obtained in jennies are i... more ... nmol/L (Fig. 1). 4. Discussion. Circulating cortisol concentrations obtained in jennies are in agreement with data observed in horses (Alexander et al., 1988) and pregnant jennies (Fazio et al., 2009b). Low cortisol levels observed ...
Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, 2013
warm-up with rope, 10 min walk, 10 min trot, 5 min gallop, 10 min trot and gallop and 15 min wind... more warm-up with rope, 10 min walk, 10 min trot, 5 min gallop, 10 min trot and gallop and 15 min winding-down exercises). Blood samples were drawn three times a week before and 5 and 30 minutes after sessions. Circulating cortisol levels were determined in duplicate using a commercially available immunoenzymatic kit supplied by RADIM (Pomezia, Italy). Statistical analyses were carried out by 1-way RM-ANOVA and Student's paired and unpaired t-test. Compared to basal, higher not significant cortisol levels were observed both at 5 (+7.00%) and 30 (+5.80%) min after breaking sessions; lower non significant cortisol levels were observed both at 5 (À10.80%) and 30 (À16.40%) min after the starting sessions; significant higher cortisol levels were observed both at 5 (+68.60%; P < .001) and 30 (+139.40%; P < .001) min after the training sessions. RM-ANOVA showed a significant effect of training on circulating cortisol changes (F ¼ 96.67; P < 0.0001). No significant differences in basal values were observed. Circulating cortisol levels were significantly lower at 5 (P < 0.001) and 30 (P < 0.005) min after the breaking and starting sessions than after the training session. No significant differences were observed according to different age and gender. Data showed that workload stress of breaking and starting sessions was the same, without significant changes on cortisol levels; the workload stress of training sessions resulted the highest, in according to daily exercise, with significant post-exercise increases of cortisol levels. The psychophysic reactivity during breaking and starting sessions was lower than during training sessions.
Equine Veterinary Journal, 2010
Trekking is a noncompetitive sport, involving maximal skeletal muscle effort. Exercise and transp... more Trekking is a noncompetitive sport, involving maximal skeletal muscle effort. Exercise and transport may involve significant energy expenditure and give rise to substantial stress. Few studies have examined the combined effect of exercise and additional preliminary transport on adrenocortical and haematochemical responses in horses during trekking. To ascertain whether exercise and additional preliminary transport before trekking would affect the circulating cortisol levels and haematochemical variables of horses during a 2 day trekking event. Twenty-nine healthy horses were used. Twenty-four horses were transported over distances of 70 km the day before trekking and 5 horses were stabled at the starting place. Blood samples were taken from horses at 16.00 h the day before trekking; and at 08.30 h and 17.30 h before and after the first day of trekking; at 08.30 h and at 13.30 h before and after the second day of trekking. Serum cortisol and haematochemical variables were determined in duplicate by using commercial test kits. One-way analysis of variance for repeated measures (RM-ANOVA) was applied to determine whether trekking and transport had any effects. Trekking significantly (P < 0.01) affected total protein, albumin, urea, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), PCV and cortisol changes in transported horses and only urea and PCV (P < 0.01) changes in untransported horses. Untransported horses showed lower basal total protein (P < 0.05) and albumin (P < 0.01) concentrations, higher urea concentrations (P < 0.001) at the second day and lower cortisol levels after the first and the second (P < 0.05) day of trekking than transported horses. These data show that the preliminary transport stress induced additional significant changes of cortisol and haematochemical patterns in horses after trekking.
Veterinary World
Background and Aim: Toxoplasma gondii is a global zoonotic parasite infecting virtually all warm-... more Background and Aim: Toxoplasma gondii is a global zoonotic parasite infecting virtually all warm-blooded species, although a species-specific variability is evident referring to symptoms frame. Both the success of T. gondii and the outcome of infection depend on a delicate balance between host cellular pathways and the evasion or modulation strategies elicited by the parasite. The hormonal and molecular mechanisms involved in this delicate host-parasite balance are still unclear, especially when considering intermediate host species other than mouse. This study aimed to assess any correlation between T. gondii infection and selected molecular and hormonal factors involved in responses to infection in susceptible species such as swine. Moreover, blood counts and hematochemical assays (glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides dosage) were performed to evaluate the overall health condition of animals. Materials and Methods: Toxoplasmosis was diagnosed by enzyme-linked immunosorben...
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science
Animals
The study examined the effects of different stages of pregnancy and lactation on thyroid, insulin... more The study examined the effects of different stages of pregnancy and lactation on thyroid, insulin, and glucose responses in dairy cows. In the present study, 30 dairy cows (10 Holstein, 10 Simmental, and 10 Brown) at 30 ± 20 d of lactation were randomly selected and blood samples were collected once every 60 d for one year to measure circulating thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), total and free triiodothyronines (T3, fT3) and thyroxines (T4, fT4), insulin, and glucose. Pregnant cows showed higher T4 (p = 0.010) and insulin (p = 0.046) concentrations at >180 d than at >60–120 d of pregnancy and in nonpregnant cows. Along the lactation phase, circulating T4 concentrations showed a biphasic trend, decreasing from 0–60 d to >60–120 d phase, which showed the lowest values, and then increasing until the end of lactation (>300 d) (p = 0.016). Glucose showed the highest concentrations at the start of lactation (0–120 days) and the lowest values at the end (p = 0.008). The monito...
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2021
This study examined how a standard exercise test (SET) affected (1) thyroid hormones (THs) of hor... more This study examined how a standard exercise test (SET) affected (1) thyroid hormones (THs) of horses and (2) the relationship between the VLa4 of horses and TH responses to the exercise in trained Standardbred racehorses (VLa4 is the velocity run at defined conditions at which a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol/L is determined). 12 trained Standardbred racehorses (six stallions and six mares) performed SETs until the horses' blood lactate concentration was at or above 4 mmol/L. The horses were divided into three age groups (2, 3 and 4 years old); each group consists of 4 horses respectively (2 male and 2 female), to evaluate the effects of age and sex on hormonal responses to SET. During each SET, blood samples were taken at rest and after each interval and at the end of SET. Blood was analysed for total and free triiodothyronine (T3, fT3) as well as total and free thyroxine (T4, fT4). The statistical model included three fixed factors (SET, sex and age) and their main interactions. ANOVA analysis revealed that T3 and fT3 were significantly influenced by SETs. Plasma T3 and fT3 concentrations were higher in 4-year-old horses compared to the other age groups. All plasma THs concentrations were higher in mares than in stallions. Correlations revealed that a higher VLa4 was negatively related to all THs responses in 2-year-old Standardbred mares only. The SET used to determine VLa4 increased selected THs (T3, fT3); these increases were inversely related to VLa4 and affected by age and sex of the horses. The correlation of VLa4 with thyroid exercise' response might provide some additional information for performance evaluation of Standardbred racehorses, especially for evaluating training adaptation, according to sex and age. Further studies are necessary to provide support on the value of measuring THs in Standardbred racehorses of different sex and age.
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2020
The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that age and sex significantly modulate the ... more The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that age and sex significantly modulate the changes in hematological parameters of physiologically healthy Spanish Purebred horse, establishing the reference values. Blood samples were obtained on a total of 159 horses (n = 77 males and n = 82 females), classified in four age groups: group A (1-2 years; n = 39), group B (>2-3 years; n = 38), group C (>3-4 years; n = 41), and group D (>4-7 years; n = 41). By means ADVIA 2020i, red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (HB), packed cell volume, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, platelets (PLTs), as well as total and differential white blood cells (WBCs) were determined. Total plasma protein was determined by spectrophotometry. Results obtained showed that sex had a limited influence on these parameters, being the HB higher in males and WBC higher in females (P = .047). Age caused a reduction in RBC, with a compensatory increase of MCV and MCH, decrease in WBC, PLT, lymphocytes (LYMPs), as well as an increase of N/L ratio (P = .047). Interactions between age and sex showed higher RBC in males than in females of the group B, and higher HB and WBC in males than in females of the group D. According to hematological data, Spanish Purebred horse was classified as a warm- or cold-blooded horse. Decline of RBC, WBC, and PLT parameters is a natural condition of horse with the advance of age, indicating a decrease of the narrow bone response.
Slovenian Veterinary Research, 2017
North-eastern Sicily is an area with iodine deficiency disorders occurring in both humans and ani... more North-eastern Sicily is an area with iodine deficiency disorders occurring in both humans and animals. The aim of this study was to test the influences of an endemic goitre area on iodothyronine ranges and their pattern in adult ovine and caprine specimens stabled in different locations of Sicily, taking into account the different sexes. A total of 48 Comisana sheep and 51 Maltese goats was studied. The sheep included 10 females and 6 males stabled in a non-endemic goitre area (farm A: control group), and 16 females and 16 males stabled in an endemic goitre area (farm B: observational group). The goats included 6 females and 13 males stabled in a non-endemic goitre area (farm A: control group), and 16 females and 16 males stabled in an endemic goitre area (Farm B: observational group). The results showed lower T3 and higher fT4 (P < 0,0001), ki so bili nastanjeni na kmetiji B v primerjavi s kmetijo A. V primerjavi s kmetijo A so pri kozah, ki so bile nastanjene na kmetiji B, ugot...
Acta Scientiae Veterinariae, 2014
Background: Weaning period is considered a crucial event in the management of ewes and lambs, res... more Background: Weaning period is considered a crucial event in the management of ewes and lambs, resulting in a number of signifi cant challenges. Although multiple stresses signifi cantly affected adaptative capability of ewes in terms of changes in physiological mechanisms insuffi cient knowledges are available to understand the adrenocortical and functional responses of lambs to adapt to weaning stress. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of weaning associated with maternal separation on circulating cortisol concentrations, respiratory rate and rectal temperature changes after the fi rst 24 h weaning period and 2 weeks later in cross-bred lambs. Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-four cross-bred lambs were assigned randomly to two treatments: 17 (unstressed control group) were housed in standard farming conditions with their mothers and 17 lambs (treated group) were submitted to weaning and separation from maternal care. Both groups were studied and ...
Animals, 2020
The hypothesis of this study was to investigate if the presence of corpus luteum (CL) in one ovar... more The hypothesis of this study was to investigate if the presence of corpus luteum (CL) in one ovary could modify the hormonal content of follicular fluid (FF) in the follicles. Sixty ovaries were taken after the slaughter of 30 clinically healthy mares. In relation to the sizes, the follicles were classified into three different categories, as small (20–30 mm), medium (31–40 mm) and large (≥41 mm). Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of mares before their slaughter, and then the FF samplings were extracted from each single follicle. The ovaries that were collected were classified into two groups, according to the presence (CL-bearing) or absence (non-CL-bearing) of CL. The serum and FF samples were analysed for progesterone (P4), oestradiol-17β (E2), testosterone (T), androstenedione (A4) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Intrafollicular P4 concentrations in large follicles of CL-bearing groups were lower than for non-CL-bearing ones. Intrafollicular E2 concentrations...
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2019
This is a PDF file of an article that has undergone enhancements after acceptance, such as the ad... more This is a PDF file of an article that has undergone enhancements after acceptance, such as the addition of a cover page and metadata, and formatting for readability, but it is not yet the definitive version of record. This version will undergo additional copyediting, typesetting and review before it is published in its final form, but we are providing this version to give early visibility of the article. Please note that, during the production process, errors may be discovered which could affect the content, and all legal disclaimers that apply to the journal pertain.
Acta Scientiae Veterinariae, 2017
Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the asse... more Background: The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and functional systems undergo the assessment of stress levels throughout living environments, contributing to avoid side effects to well-being in domestic animals, including pets. Cortisol represents the most important glucocorticoid found in felis and it is frequently used as standard marker in stress research. The purpose of the present study was to compare the adrenal and haematological patterns of cats, by taking into account the effects of different housing’s systems. The hypothesis was to find a different coping strategies, according to different housings.Materials, Methods & Results: For this study a total of 50 cats were selected on the basis of the breed: European domestic short hair cats, age ranged between 22 and 30 months and housing’s systems, represented by cattery and/or households, respectively. On these basis, cats were distinguished into two groups, represented by group A: 22 cats living in cattery, and gro...
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2019
The aim of this study was to verify the existence of possible crosstalk between biochemical conte... more The aim of this study was to verify the existence of possible crosstalk between biochemical contents of follicular fluid (FF) and systemic concentrations according to the follicular development of the metabolites: glucose (GLU), lactate (LACT), cholesterol (CHOL), triglycerides (TG), total bilirubin (T BIL), urea (BUN) and creatinine (CREAT); enzymatic activities: gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST); electrolytes: calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), sodium (Na), chloride (Cl), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg) and iron (Fe); total proteins (TP) and their fractions: albumin (ALB), α1-, α2-, β and γ-globulins (GLOB) of FF and blood strain and their correlations with follicular size in cycling mares. Systemic concentrations of GLU, T BIL, BUN, Fe, TP, ALB, α-1 and α-2 and δ-GLOB and of ALP, GGT and AST activities were higher than in the FF (P < 0.05); LACT, CHOL and TG were higher in FF than systemic ones (P < 0.05). GLU, CHOL, TG, LACT and T BIL were higher in large follicles than in medium and small follicles (P < 0.05); however, BUN, Fe, ALP and AST were lower in large follicles than in medium or small follicles (P < 0.05). ALP, GGT and AST activities decreased in medium and large follicles compared to small follicles (P < 0.05). These results suggest that the metabolic, enzymatic, electrolytic and protein composition of FF of growing follicles could occur according to the blood stream changes; hence, it is possible to presume that the nutritional environment of oocyte and follicular cells could improve the clinical diagnoses of infertility in the mare.
Veterinary World, 2017
Aim: To investigate the effects of training sessions on circulating β-endorphin changes in sport ... more Aim: To investigate the effects of training sessions on circulating β-endorphin changes in sport horses before and after competition and to ascertain whether competition would affect this response. Materials and Methods: A total of 24 trained jumping horses were randomly assigned to one of two training groups: Group A (competing) and Group B (not competing). To determined plasma β-endorphin concentrations, two pre-and postcompetition training weeks at aerobic workout and two competitive show jumping event days at anaerobic workout were measured before, 5 and 30 min after exercise. Exercise intensity is described using lactate concentrations and heart rate. The circuit design, intensity, and duration of training sessions were the same for both groups. Results: In Group A, one-way analysis of variance for repeated measures (RM-ANOVA) showed significant effects of exercise on β-endorphin changes (F=14.41; p<0.001), only in the post-competition training sessions, while in Group B showed no significant effects. Two-way RM-ANOVA showed, after post-competition training sessions, a significant difference between Group A and Group B (F=6.235; p=0.023), with higher β-endorphin changes in Group A, compared to Group B. During the competitive show jumping sessions, one-way RM ANOVA showed significant effects of exercise on β-endorphin changes (F=51.10; p<0.001). The statistical analysis, in Group A, showed a significant difference between postcompetition training and competitive exercise (F=6.32; p=0.024) with higher β-endorphin values in competitive sessions compared to those of post-competition training. Conclusion: Lactate concentrations seem to be the main factors being correlated with the raise of β-endorphin during anaerobic exercise of competitive events. Exercise of low intensity, as well as that one of training sessions, does not appear to stimulate a significant increased release of β-endorphin and it may depend on the duration of the exercise program. Moreover, the responses during exercise in the course of post-competition training sessions seem to be significantly different from those the pre-competition training. These data show that the preliminary competitive stress induced additional significant changes of β-endorphin pattern. It would reflect the need of a long-lasting modulation of fatigue and pain perception related to the effect of an additional physical and mental effort for the consecutive competitive and training sessions.
Veterinary World, 2016
The changes of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis response to a long distance transpor... more The changes of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis response to a long distance transportation results in increase of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol levels. The purpose of the study was to quantify the level of short-term road transport stress on circulating ACTH and cortisol concentrations, related to the effect of previous handling and transport experience of horses. Materials and Methods: The study was performed on 56 healthy horses after short-term road transport of 30 km. The horses were divided into four groups, Groups A, B, C, and D, with respect to the handling quality: Good (Groups A and B), bad (Group D), and minimal handling (Group C) conditions. According to the previous transport, experience horses were divided as follows: Horses of Groups A and D had been experienced long-distance transportation before; horses of Groups B and C had been limited experience of transportation. Results: One-way RM-ANOVA showed significant effects of transport on ACTH changes in Groups B and C and on cortisol changes in both Groups A and B. Groups A and B showed lower baseline ACTH and cortisol values than Groups C and D; Groups A and B showed lower post-transport ACTH values than Groups C and D. Groups A, B, and C showed lower post-transport cortisol values than Group D. Only Groups A and B horses have shown an adequate capacity of stress response to transportation. Conclusion: The previous transport experience and quality of handling could influence the HPA axis physiological responses of horses after short-term road transport.
Veterinary Research Communications, 2011
The aim of this study was to provide basal values of phospholipid (PL) composition in different a... more The aim of this study was to provide basal values of phospholipid (PL) composition in different animal species by 31 P NMR analysis using detergents. This fast and accurate method allowed a quantitative analysis of PLs without any previous separation. Plasma and erythrocyte membrane PLs were investigated in mammals (pig, cow, horse). Moreover, for the first time, the composition of plasma PLs in avian (chicken and ostrich) was performed by 31 P NMR. Significant qualitative and quantitative interspecies differences in plasma PL levels were found. Phosphatidilcholine (PC) and sphingomyelin (SPH) levels were significantly higher (P<0.001) in chicken plasma than all the other species tested. In erythrocytes, cow PC and phosphatidylcholine diarachidoyl were significantly lower (P<0.001) than for pigs and horses, whereas pig PC presented intermediate values among cows and horses. Inorganic phosphate and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate levels were also significantly different between the species under investigation. The [SPH/total PLs] molar ratios in erythrocytes confirmed interspecies differences in phospholipid composition while the PC/SPH molar ratios could be related to a distinct erythrocyte flexibility and aggregability. Diet and nutrition may contribute
Veterinary Research Communications, 2005
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the e¡ect of long-distance road transport as a relevant... more The purpose of this study was to evaluate the e¡ect of long-distance road transport as a relevant stressor on total and free iodothyronines, cortisol levels and haematocrit values in 10 male Limousin cattle. Serum T 3 , T 4 , fT 3 , fT 4 and cortisol concentrations were analysed by immunoenzymatic assays. Serum cortisol levels and haematocrit modi¢cations were also evaluated on the basis of percentage body weight decrease. The results showed a general increase of total and free iodothyronines and cortisol levels after short-and long-distance road transport and a decrease 15 days after transport, as compared to basal values. Signi¢cant positive correlations between T 3 and T 4 , between T 3 and fT 3 , and between T 4 and fT 4 were found. These results suggest that transport stress induces an increase in the activity of thyroid and adrenal function in Limousin cattle that is evident after even a short-distance road transport and continues to increase after long-distance transport.
Veterinary Research Communications, 2003
Livestock Science, 2011
... nmol/L (Fig. 1). 4. Discussion. Circulating cortisol concentrations obtained in jennies are i... more ... nmol/L (Fig. 1). 4. Discussion. Circulating cortisol concentrations obtained in jennies are in agreement with data observed in horses (Alexander et al., 1988) and pregnant jennies (Fazio et al., 2009b). Low cortisol levels observed ...
Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, 2013
warm-up with rope, 10 min walk, 10 min trot, 5 min gallop, 10 min trot and gallop and 15 min wind... more warm-up with rope, 10 min walk, 10 min trot, 5 min gallop, 10 min trot and gallop and 15 min winding-down exercises). Blood samples were drawn three times a week before and 5 and 30 minutes after sessions. Circulating cortisol levels were determined in duplicate using a commercially available immunoenzymatic kit supplied by RADIM (Pomezia, Italy). Statistical analyses were carried out by 1-way RM-ANOVA and Student's paired and unpaired t-test. Compared to basal, higher not significant cortisol levels were observed both at 5 (+7.00%) and 30 (+5.80%) min after breaking sessions; lower non significant cortisol levels were observed both at 5 (À10.80%) and 30 (À16.40%) min after the starting sessions; significant higher cortisol levels were observed both at 5 (+68.60%; P < .001) and 30 (+139.40%; P < .001) min after the training sessions. RM-ANOVA showed a significant effect of training on circulating cortisol changes (F ¼ 96.67; P < 0.0001). No significant differences in basal values were observed. Circulating cortisol levels were significantly lower at 5 (P < 0.001) and 30 (P < 0.005) min after the breaking and starting sessions than after the training session. No significant differences were observed according to different age and gender. Data showed that workload stress of breaking and starting sessions was the same, without significant changes on cortisol levels; the workload stress of training sessions resulted the highest, in according to daily exercise, with significant post-exercise increases of cortisol levels. The psychophysic reactivity during breaking and starting sessions was lower than during training sessions.
Equine Veterinary Journal, 2010
Trekking is a noncompetitive sport, involving maximal skeletal muscle effort. Exercise and transp... more Trekking is a noncompetitive sport, involving maximal skeletal muscle effort. Exercise and transport may involve significant energy expenditure and give rise to substantial stress. Few studies have examined the combined effect of exercise and additional preliminary transport on adrenocortical and haematochemical responses in horses during trekking. To ascertain whether exercise and additional preliminary transport before trekking would affect the circulating cortisol levels and haematochemical variables of horses during a 2 day trekking event. Twenty-nine healthy horses were used. Twenty-four horses were transported over distances of 70 km the day before trekking and 5 horses were stabled at the starting place. Blood samples were taken from horses at 16.00 h the day before trekking; and at 08.30 h and 17.30 h before and after the first day of trekking; at 08.30 h and at 13.30 h before and after the second day of trekking. Serum cortisol and haematochemical variables were determined in duplicate by using commercial test kits. One-way analysis of variance for repeated measures (RM-ANOVA) was applied to determine whether trekking and transport had any effects. Trekking significantly (P < 0.01) affected total protein, albumin, urea, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), PCV and cortisol changes in transported horses and only urea and PCV (P < 0.01) changes in untransported horses. Untransported horses showed lower basal total protein (P < 0.05) and albumin (P < 0.01) concentrations, higher urea concentrations (P < 0.001) at the second day and lower cortisol levels after the first and the second (P < 0.05) day of trekking than transported horses. These data show that the preliminary transport stress induced additional significant changes of cortisol and haematochemical patterns in horses after trekking.