Psychisches Verhalten von Ratten unter extremen Haltungsbedingungen in Abhängigkeit von Wettereinflüssen

Bei Ratten unter verschiedenen Beleuchtungsverhältnissen (dauer-beleuchtet, normal- und dunkelgehalten) konnte eine qualitativ gleichartige, quantitativ jedoch erheblich unterschiedliche Reaktion auf Wettereinflüsse nachgewiesen werden. Dabei erwiesen sich das „föhnig übersteigerte Schönwetter“ und der „aufkommende Wetterumschlag“ als deutlich erregungsfördernd. Dauer-beleuchtete Tiere reagierten auf das Wetter etwa dreifach stärker als dunkel-gehaltene Tiere. Die sympathikotrope Wirkung des Lichtes konnte erneut bestätigt werden, jedoch geben die vorgelegten, statistisch gesicherten Untersuchungen keinen Hinweis auf die Receptoren, die — mit Ausnahme des Auges — die meteorologischen Reize auf das neuro-endokrine System übermitteln.

Techniques developed for the control of estrus, ovulation and parturition in the East German pig industry: a review

Centralized administration of the nationalized pig industry in the former German Democratic Republic (East Germany), promoted wide-scale use of assisted reproduction of pigs. The objective was to synchronize reproductive events such as estrus, ovulation, breeding and parturition in a way that would allow for quick penetration of desirable genetic information by timed artificial insemination and the routine use of hygienic measures. Methods developed to control these events were based on extensive basic and applied research, but the resulting pool of unique scientific information was heretofore not published in refereed journals in the English language. We present here a comprehensive review of biotechnological procedures and physiological insights gained by basic and applied research and by their application at the large pig production units.

Comparative quantitative assessment of GnRH- and LH-receptor mRNA expression in the urinary tract of sexually intact and spayed female dogs

Ovariectomy interrupts the regulatory loop in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis, leading to a several-fold increase in gonadotropin levels. This rise in hormonal secretion may play a causal role in ovariectomy-related urinary incontinence. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of ovariectomy in bitches on the expression of GnRH- and LH-receptors in the lower urinary tract, and assess the relationship between receptor expression and plasma gonadotropin concentrations. Plasma gonadotropins were measured in 37 client-owned bitches. Biopsies were harvested from the mid-ventral bladder wall in all dogs, and from nine further locations within the lower urinary tract in 17 of the 37 animals. Messenger RNA of the LH and GnRH receptors was quantified using RT-PCR with the TaqMan Universal PCR Master Mix. Gonadotropins were measured with a canine-specific FSH-immunoradiometric assay and LH-radioimmunoassay. The hierarchical mixed ANOVA model using MINITAB, Mann-Whitney U-test, unpaired means comparison and linear regressions using StatView were applied for statistical analyses. Messenger RNA for both receptors was detected in all biopsy samples. Age was negatively correlated to mRNA expression of the LH and the GnRH receptors. A relationship between the mRNA values and the plasma gonadotropin concentrations was not established. Evaluation of results within each of the biopsy locations revealed greater LH-receptor expression in the proximal second quarter of the urethra in spayed bitches than in intact bitches (P=0.0481). Increased mRNA expression of LH receptors in this location could possibly play a role in the decrease in closing pressure of the urethra following ovariectomy.

The effect of GnRH analogs on urinary incontinence after ablation of the ovaries in dogs

After removal of the ovaries approximately 20% of dogs develop urinary incontinence. Removal of the gonads results in estrogen deficiency and chronic elevation in the production and secretion of FSH and LH. The gonadotrophins may directly or indirectly, adversely affect the sphincter function of the urethra. Estrogen replacement therapy and treatment with sympathomimetics, such as ephedrine or phenylpropanolamine (PPA), are effective only in some of the affected dogs, and many of these subsequently become nonresponsive. Since the role of the elevated gonadotrophins has not been elucidated, we used depot preparations of GnRH analogues to down-regulate gonadotrophins once or twice in 13 ovariectomized (ovx), incontinent dogs, which were either refractory to alpha-adrenergics (n=11) or in which alpha-adrenergics were contraindicated (n=2). Dogs were treated with leuprolide, deslorelin, buserelin or triptorelin. In 7 dogs treatments with GnRH analogues alone (n=11) resulted in continence for 50-738 days (mean 247). In all dogs except one, where GnRH treatments did not resolve the incontinence completely, additional treatment with phenylpropanolamine was successful. With additional treatment of phenylpropanolamine complete continence was restored for 21-367 days (mean 159). All treatments caused long-term reduction of circulating FSH and LH concentrations to very low or undetectable levels. No adverse effects of treatments were observed.

Induction of contraception in some African wild carnivores by downregulation of LH and FSH secretion using the GnRH analogue deslorelin

The GnRH analogue deslorelin, in long-acting biocompatible implants, was used as a contraceptive in 31 cheetahs (13 females and 18 males), 21 African wild dogs (15 females and 6 males), 10 lionesses and four leopards (three females and one male). A dose of 12 or 15 mg deslorelin was administered to lions, whereas 6 mg deslorelin was administered to the other species. Monitoring consisted of observations, measurement of plasma progesterone and testosterone concentrations, vaginal cytology and evaluation of semen and sex organs. Deslorelin induced contraception in lionesses for 12-18 months, and in female cheetahs and leopards for a minimum of 12 months after treatment. Two male cheetahs had no viable spermatozoa or detectable plasma testosterone 21 months after treatment with deslorelin. Female wild dogs responded less consistently and one bitch conceived 4 weeks after implantation. However, in nine bitches, mating could be postponed until the next breeding season. Male dogs responded consistently and the contraception was effective for approximately 12 months. Although lionesses and cheetahs may become attractive to males for a few days after treatment, mating was not observed. No side-effects or behavioural changes were noted, indicating that deslorelin is a safe drug to use for the contraception of the species described. Males remain fertile for the first 6 weeks after the insertion of implants and should be separated from cyclic females during this period.

Assessment of cabergoline as a reproductive inhibitor in coyotes (Canis latrans)

The efficacy of three oral formulations (gelatin capsule, tablet, oil base) and five dosages (50, 100, 250, 500, 1000 microg) of cabergoline to disrupt reproduction in coyotes (Canis latrans) was evaluated. The type of formulation used had no effect on plasma progesterone and prolactin concentrations or on mean litter size. No adverse side effects (for example, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhoea) were observed despite the use of doses of up to 20 times the therapeutic dose used for domestic dogs and cats. All coyotes treated with 50, 100, 250 and 500 microg cabergoline whelped, but plasma progesterone concentrations in these coyotes were lower (P < or = 0.07) than in control animals at day 7 after treatment. Ten of 11 females treated with 1000 microg cabergoline whelped, but progesterone concentrations in these coyotes were lower than in control animals up to day 14 after treatment (P < or = 0.04). Dosages of 1000 microg cabergoline decreased blood serum prolactin (P < or = 0.10) and progesterone (P < or = 0.06) concentrations, but apparently failed to decrease progesterone below the threshold necessary to maintain pregnancy in all but one animal. However, progressive inhibition of prolactin and progesterone with increasing doses of cabergoline indicated that higher dosages might be effective in coyotes. Survival of pups born to cabergoline-treated females was not different (P < 0.001) from that of pups born to control females, but mean litter size was smaller for females treated with cabergoline (P < or = 0.073) than for the control females. Although all cabergoline treatments in this study were ineffective at preventing reproduction in coyotes, progressive inhibition of prolactin and progesterone with increasing dosages of cabergoline indicates that higher doses might be effective in preventing reproduction in coyotes. However, the physiological differences from other canine species in dopamine D2 receptors and mechanisms of luteal support may ultimately prevent the use of cabergoline for reproductive control in coyotes.

Suppression of the oestrous responses of bitches to the GnRH analogue deslorelin by progestin

Studies were undertaken in Australia and Belgium to determine whether the initial pro-oestrous-oestrous responses of anoestrous bitches to treatment with deslorelin administered in a s.c. implant were inhibited by progestin treatment. Thirty-nine bitches of mixed breeding were treated daily with 2 mg megestrol acetate kg-1 body weight for 21 (group 1, n = 5) or 14 days (group 2, n = 10), or with 1 mg megestrol acetate kg-1 body weight for 14 days (group 3, n = 10). A deslorelin (6 mg) implant was placed s.c. on day 14 (group 1) or day 7 (groups 2 and 3) of treatment. Bitches not treated with progestin also received a deslorelin implant (group 4, n = 9) or were untreated controls (group 5, n = 9). Signs of pro-oestrus-oestrus were not observed in bitches in groups 1, 2 and 5, but were observed in bitches in groups 3 (4/10) and 4 (9/9). Four bitches in group 4 were mated, two of which became pregnant. The pregnancies failed at about day 40 of gestation and were associated with low plasma progesterone concentrations. Treatment with progestin inhibited the pro-oestrous-oestrous responses of bitches to deslorelin.

Efficacy of the GnRH analogue deslorelin for suppression of oestrous cycles in cats

The aim of this study was to develop a method for long-term but reversible inhibition of oestrous cycles in female cats by downregulation of GnRH receptors with deslorelin released from a long-acting implant. In a blind study with mature cats (n = 20), a 6 mg deslorelin implant was administered s.c. to ten cats and a placebo implant was administered to ten cats. Occurrence of oestrus and general health were observed daily, and individual faecal samples were collected at 3 day intervals for 14 months and analysed for oestradiol content. All the placebo-treated queens continued to undergo normal oestrous cycles during the study. Oestrus was accompanied by peaks in oestradiol concentrations of > or = 20 ng g-1 faeces. Treatment with deslorelin initially stimulated oestradiol release, which accompanied treatment-induced ovulations. Thereafter, oestradiol concentrations decreased to 1-10 ng g-1 faeces and remained low for extended periods. Observations of small increases in oestradiol concentrations in one cat led to a second treatment with 6 mg deslorelin in five cats on day 155 after first treatment. Faecal oestradiol concentrations remained < 20 ng g-1 faeces in the five single treatment cats for 8.0, 8.5, 11.0 and 14.0 (two cats) months. Cats receiving two implants had the first oestradiol peak > 20 ng g-1 faeces after treatment at 7.5, 11.0 (two cats), 11.5 and 14.0 months. After 14 months, two cats had returned to normal cyclic activity, two had irregular small oestrogen peaks and six showed no cyclic activity. For months 2-5, 6-10 and 11-14, oestrogen values in treated cats were significantly different from control values (P < 0.001, 0.05 and 0.02, respectively). Differences in oestrogen concentration between control cats and cats that were treated twice were significant (P < 0.001) during months 6-10 only. The general health of treated cats was unchanged throughout the study. These results confirm that deslorelin can effectively suppress ovarian activity in domestic cats, but that the duration of suppression varies among individuals.

Effectiveness of cabergoline for termination of pregnancy in silver fox (Vulpes vulpes fulva)

Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) are a major pest species in Europe and Australia. Traditional methods of control such as hunting or poisoning are no longer sufficient or feasible. As with domestic dogs and cats, prolactin (PRL) in the vixen is an essential luteotropin during the second half of gestation. Hence, PRL inhibitors such as cabergoline have been used to induce abortions. Eighteen mated silver fox vixens (three groups of six foxes each) were treated orally with a placebo of paraffin oil (I), or with 15 microg/kg cabergoline in feed once (11) or twice (III), on day 30 (I and II) or days 30 and 32 (III) post-coitum. Blood samples were taken prior to and after treatments and concentrations of PRL and progesterone (P4) were determined. Normal parturitions were observed in five of six, five of six and two of six vixens in groups I, II and III, respectively. In group III plasma concentrations of PRL and P4 decreased significantly but only temporarily. This drop in hormone concentrations was more pronounced in the vixens that did not carry to term. In conclusion, doses in excess of 15 microg/kg of cabergoline are likely to prevent the development of fetuses to term in pregnant vixens.

Control of reproduction and sex related behaviour in exotic wild carnivores with the GnRH analogue deslorelin: preliminary observations

The GnRH analogue deslorelin, in long-acting implants, was used in an attempt to temporarily control reproduction or aggression in wild carnivores in southern Africa and the USA. In the southern African study, 6 mg deslorelin was administered to cheetahs (eight females, four males), one female leopard and wild dogs (six females, one male) housed in groups, and 12 mg deslorelin was administered to two lionesses. None of the animals became pregnant after deslorelin administration apart from one wild dog that was mated at the initial treatment-induced oestrus. Two wild dogs and one lioness came into oestrus 12 and 18 months after deslorelin administration, respectively, thus demonstrating that the anti-fertility effects of deslorelin are reversible. Two lionesses and four cheetahs underwent oestrus without allowing mating 2-14 days after treatment. Simultaneous administration of progestins to three bitches and one lioness did not suppress oestrus. Male cheetahs had no spermatozoa on day 82 after treatment and did not impregnate two untreated females. Of three untreated female wild dogs housed with treated males, only the first female to enter oestrus (21 days after deslorelin administration) became pregnant. One month after treatment, plasma testosterone concentrations of male dogs were at basal values. In the USA study, three male sea otters that had been treated with 6 mg deslorelin ceased antagonistic behaviour and blood testosterone concentrations and size of the testes were still sharply reduced 24 months after treatment. Male red (n = 7) and grey (n = 5) wolves received 6 mg deslorelin in December 1998 but no effects on seasonal spermatogenesis and behaviour were observed. In a black-footed cat, sperm production, libido and aggressiveness decreased in response to treatment with 3 mg deslorelin and penile spines were not observed within 3 months after treatment, but were observed again 4-6 months later. Treatment of female red (n = 5) and grey (n = 5) wolves with deslorelin in December 1999 triggered preseason oestrus and mating, which were followed by one abortion and one successful pregnancy. Contraception was achieved in female Fennec foxes (n = 7) and two lionesses, which was observed in the foxes by an absence of increases in faecal progesterone concentrations. In two male bush dogs, administration of 3 mg deslorelin once or twice was insufficient to suppress reproductive function or behaviour.

Zinc serum level in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients in relation to immunological status

In human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, serum level of zinc, an important micronutrient for immune function, is frequently diminished. The aim of this study was to determine the zinc status in relation to immunological parameters and disease stage in 79 HIV-1 seropositive patients. The median serum level of zinc was within normal limits (12.5 micromol/L) but in 23% of patients, zinc deficiency was seen. Decreased serum zinc was associated with a low CD4 cell count, high viral load, and increased neopterin and IgA levels. According to current treatment recommendations, the majority of patients received antiretroviral triple therapy. Zinc levels in treated and untreated patients were comparable. Referring to disease stage (CDC classification, 1993), the mean zinc level was highest in stage C and lowest in stage A. In conclusion, even under antiretroviral triple therapy, zinc deficiency is still of great importance in HIV infection, and zinc substitution in zinc deficient individuals should be taken into account to optimize therapeutical success.

Zinc status in patients with alveolar echinococcosis is related to disease progression

Zinc is an essential trace element for immune function that plays a role in immune response against parasites. To determine a possible relationship between zinc level and disease status in alveolar echinococcosis (AE), we investigated serum concentrations of zinc, immunoglobulin (Ig)E, IgG, and C-reactive protein (CRP) in 40 AE patients and 20 controls. Patients were classified into three groups: group A: patients after curative surgery, group B: patients with stabilized disease, group C: patients with progressive disease. Patients showed significantly higher levels of IgE and IgG than controls. Amounts of IgE and IgG were related to disease severity, achieving highest levels in group C and lowest in group A. Zinc levels were comparable in patients and controls. However, there was an obvious association between zinc concentration and disease severity. Zinc was far below the normal range in group C (median 9.2 micromol/l) and significantly diminished compared to group B and controls. An inverse pattern was seen for CRP. In conclusion, lowered zinc concentration in progressive cases may be caused by enhanced immune activation but consumption of zinc by the growing parasite may also play a role. Furthermore, decreased zinc levels may contribute to the observed immunosuppression in AE.

[Abnormal behavior and adaptation problems in dogs and cats and their pharmacologic control]

Small animal practitioners are increasingly confronted with patients showing adaptation related problems (ARP) which are expressed as disturbed or abnormal behavior (DAB). As a result, practitioners are asked increasingly to euthanize animals which seemingly cannot be socialized. In healthy dogs and cats, three main causes for DAB can be detected: refusal of obedience because of the drive for dominance; anxiety and frustration; and geriatric DAB. Increasingly, disease conditions not readily diagnosed can cause DAB, especially hypothyroidism. Influencing and contributing factors to DAB are breed, sex, experiences as a puppy, behavior of owners, changes in the pet's environment. ARPs may also cause disturbances in the condition of skin and fur, e.g. atopic dermatitis, pruritus sine materia, lick granuloma, and of the intestinal organs (vomiting, irritated bowel syndrome) and may result in an immune deficiency. Therapeutic approaches include behavioral therapy, surgical or hormonal castration with progestins or antiandrogens, substitution with thyroxin in cases with hypothyroidism, and/or the use of psychopharmaca, most prominently of modern antidepressiva like amitriptyline; buspirone; clomipramine and fluoxetine, but also of selegiline, a mono-aminoxydase inhibitor. These compounds, among other effects, are elevating prolactin levels. This seems to allow to formulate a working hypothesis: in the canine species, prolactin is obviously a hormone enabling socialization; hence all drugs which safely cause an increase in prolactin production might be suitable to manage or control ARPs and DAB in the dog, but also in the cat. Higher levels of prolactin than those required for socialization, as seen in nursing bitches or some clinically overt cases of pseudopregnancy, may cause maternal aggression and can be controlled with prolactin inhibitors, if needed.

Controlled-release products for the control of the estrus cycle in cattle, sheep, goats, deer, pigs, and horses

This paper describes the estrus cycles of a number of livestock breeds and reviews the controlled-release drug delivery systems that are currently available for the purpose of controlled breeding. The bovine estrus cycle is reviewed in detail, and the estrus cycles of other species are described in a manner that highlights similarities and differences between species. Pertinent formulation and pharmacokinetic information about current drug delivery systems is presented and discussed, and recent advances in this area are also described.

Forty years of control of the oestrous cycle in ruminants: progress made, unresolved problems and the potential impact of sperm encapsulation technology

Pharmacological control of the oestrous cycle may, with or without sperm encapsulation, remain an indispensable part of any attempt to make artificial insemination available to the ranch-cattle industry. Of the current methods, those most likely to remain acceptable with regulatory agencies and to gain acceptance with industry are those involving the short-term use (7-10 days) of minimal effective doses of progestins (preferably progesterone) and the subsequent use of an analogue of prostaglandin F2 alpha. The use of microencapsulated sperm with a long lifespan would allow artificial insemination to be achieved without reference to the time when heat and ovulation may occur.

Multicenter clinical comparison of sedative and analgesic effects of medetomidine and xylazine in dogs

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate analgesic and sedative effects of medetomidine hydrochloride in dogs and to compare effects with those of xylazine hydrochloride.

DESIGN

Randomized, controlled trial.

ANIMALS

184 dogs that required sedation or analgesia for completion of minor diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.

PROCEDURE

Dogs were sedated with medetomidine, i.v. (750 micrograms/m2 of body surface area) or i.m. (1,000 micrograms/m2) or with xylazine, i.v. (1.1 mg/kg 10.5 mg/lb] of body weight) or i.m. (2.2 mg/kg [1 mg/lb]). Sedative effects were measured by scoring posture and response to noise. Durations of effects were determined by measuring time intervals between drug administration and changes in posture. Analgesic effects were measured by determining toe-pinch pressure needed to elicit a withdrawal response. Clinicians rated sedative and analgesic effects and ease with which diagnostic or therapeutic procedures could be performed.

RESULTS

Posture and response to noise scores were significantly higher for dogs given medetomidine, i.m., than for dogs given xylazine, i.m., and for dogs given medetomidine, i.v., than for dogs given xylazine, i.v. Time to regaining sternal recumbency and time to regaining ability to stand were longest after i.m. administration of medetomidine. Toe-pinch pressures were not significantly different among groups. Clinicians rated overall analgesic and sedative effects as excellent significantly more often after administration of medetomidine than after administration of xylazine. Prevalence of adverse effects did not differ among groups.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Medetomidine and xylazine, at doses tested, were effective and safe, but results of subjective measurements indicated that medetomidine provided better sedation and analgesia than did xylazine. Specific alpha 2-adrenergic antagonists (atipamezole, yohimbine) are available for control of adverse cardiovascular effects.

Use of the GnRH analogue, deslorelin acetate, in a slow-release implant to accelerate ovulation in oestrous mares

In two separate controlled clinical trials, the efficacy and safety of 2.2 mg of the GnRH analogue deslorelin, administered subcutaneously as a short-term implant to normally cycling mares in oestrus with a dominant ovarian follicle more than 30 mm in diameter, were evaluated, using a placebo as a negative control. The oestrous cycle of each mare was followed by teasing, palpation per rectum and transrectal ultrasonography. Follicles were monitored every 24 hours by ultrasonography until ovulation occurred. The mares were either mated naturally or inseminated artificially. In trial 1, 174 mares were treated at six locations in Canada, and in trial 2, 98 mares were treated at three locations in the USA. In trial 1, the treatment with deslorelin reduced the mean (sd) time to ovulation from 84.2 (48.4) hours to 50.2 (19.6) hours (P < 0.001) and in trial 2 it reduced it from 88.8 (40.3) hours to 54.1 (26.5) hours (P < 0.001). In trial 1, the percentage of mares ovulating within 48 hours increased from 37.7 per cent in control mares to 86.1 per cent in treated mares (P < 0.001) and in trial 2 the percentage increased from 26.5 to 80.9 per cent (P < 0.001). In trial 2, the duration of oestrus in the deslorelin-treated mares was reduced from 6.1 days to 4.3 days and the number of matings or artificial inseminations was reduced from 2.5 to 1.7 (P < 0.001). In trial 1, days 12 to 20 pregnancy rates for matings at the treatment oestrus were not different for deslorelin-treated (75.6 per cent) and placebo-treated (66.1 per cent) mares. In trial 2, days 12 to 20 pregnancy rates from matings at the treatment oestrus were lower for deslorelin-treated (58.7 per cent) than for placebo-treated (83.3 per cent) mares (P < 0.05), although pregnancy rates were similar for deslorelin-treated (97.1 per cent) and placebo-treated (95.0 per cent) mares after mating at the second oestrus. In both trials, pregnancy losses due to early or late abortions were within the normally expected range and similar for deslorelin-treated (3.6 and 3.7 per cent, respectively) and placebo-treated (13.4 and 7.5 per cent) mares. The treatments did not cause systemic side effects and local reactions at the implantation sites were slight and of short duration.

Control of ovulation with a GnRH analog in gilts and sows

Methods for the control of ovulation with GnRH or the GnRH analog D-Phe6 -LHRH (GnRH-A), were evaluated in gilts and sows as the last step in development of a fixed-time Al protocol. This involved 3 field trials using 2,744 gilts (10 units) and 71,628 sows (33 units). In Trial 1, the GnRH-A (75 microg) was given subsequent to treatment with altrenogest for cycle control or eCG for the stimulation of uniform follicle development in gilts. The release of LH was followed by ovulations which commenced within 36.4 +/- 3.3 hr and were terminated at 39.0 +/- 2.8 hr after administration of GnRH-A. This degree of synchronization of ovulations enabled the use of fixed-time AI. Consequently, subsequent to pretreatment with altrenogest and eCG, in 10 production units 1,285 gilts received 50 microg GnRH-A and 1,459 gilts 500 IU hCG serving as positive controls (Trial 2); all the gilts were inseminated 24 and 42 hr after treatment. Pregnancy rate and piglet index (n of piglets per 100 first inseminations) following GnRH-A vs hCG were 78.8% and 779 vs 74.4% and 728, respectively (P < 0.05). In field trials with first litter gilts and multiparous sows (33 units holding from 250 to 6,000 sows), 1,000 IU eCG was used for estrus control after weaning and 25 microg or 50 microg GnRH-A were given 55 to 58 hours after eCG (n = 19,954 and 20,701) (Trial 3). Sows treated during the same time period with 300 microg GnRH plus 300 IU. hCG (n = 30,973) served as positive controls; all sows were inseminated 24 and 42 hours after treatment. Pregnancy rates for 50 microg GnRH-A, 25 microg GnRH-A and 300 microg GnRH plus 300 IU hCG were 83.0%, 81.7% and 80.7%, and the piglet indices 913, 899 and 880, respectively (P < 0.05). Unit size and parity had significant effects on fertility and productivity. In all studies, results with 50 microg GnRH-A were superior. In year-long studies, highest levels of fertility in response to these treatments were seen from December to May.

Acceleration and timing of fertile ovulation in cyclic mares with a deslorelin implant

In a blinded trial, the effectiveness and safety of 2.2 mg of the GnRH analog deslorelin acetate, administered in a short-term implant (STI) to normally cycling mares in estrus with a dominant ovarian follicle of 30 mm in diameter or larger, were evaluated, using a placebo implant as a negative control. A total of 39 mares received treatments at admittance with pre-randomized implants containing either 2.2 mg or 0 mg deslorelin. Mares were teased daily and examined rectally with ultrasound at 24 h intervals to determine time to ovulation and duration of estrus. The number of breedings and the pregnancy rate at 18 (+/- 3) and 38 (+/- 3) days were recorded, as were systemic side effects and local reactions at the implantation sites. Pregnancies resulting from breedings during the treatment estrus and/or from breedings during the next estrus were followed and the early and late pregnancy loss rate, the number of pregnancies going to term and of live-born foals was recorded. Mean follicle diameter at treatment was not significantly different between the deslorelin and placebo treatment group with 41.6 mm and 40.8 mm, respectively. Treatment with deslorelin STI reduced the time interval to ovulation significantly from 69.5 +/- 25.48 h to 42.7 +/- 12.35 h (p < 0.001). The percentage of mares having ovulated within 48 h rose from 26.3% to 95.0%, respectively, for placebo and deslorelin STI (p < 0.001). As a consequence, the duration of estrus in days and the percent of animals requiring more than 1 breeding were significantly reduced in deslorelin treated animals from 5.4 days to 4.6 days, and from 55.6% to 5.0%, respectively (p = 0.009 and = 0.001). The percent of mares pregnant from breedings at the treatment estrus (65.0% versus 44.4%) or the next estrus (83.3% versus 92.3%) was satisfactory and similar for deslorelin and placebo treated mares (p > 0.005), and in 70.0% and 66.7% of these once or twice bred mares did pregnancies go to term and live foals were born.

Clinical comparison of medetomidine with xylazine/l-methadone in dogs

Seventy-two healthy dogs required sedation and analgesia for a variety of procedures causing discomfort or pain. They were treated either with the alpha 2-agonist medetomidine at 40 micrograms/kg (15 intravenously and 17 intramuscularly), or 80 micrograms/kg (15 intravenously and 15 intramuscularly) or with xylazine plus l-methadone (1.0 mg)(10 intravenously). The levels of sedation, analgesia and safety were compared clinically and by measurements of the effects on the electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood gases, body temperature, haematology and clinical chemistry. Sedation was achieved reliably with both medetomidine and xylazine plus l-methadone but its onset, depth and duration were influenced by the dose and route of administration. In the medetomidine-treated dogs, intravenous administration resulted in more rapid sedation and the effects of the higher dose were deeper and longer lasting. The small dogs receiving 40 micrograms/kg may have been underdosed. The initial analgesic effects in response to a pin prick to the body surface were sufficient and similar for both drugs, except for the intramuscular dose of 40 micrograms/kg medetomidine. Analgesia for the clinical procedures was less reliable with medetomidine and was not always adequate even at the high dose, but xylazine plus l-methadone assured analgesia in almost every case. Medetomidine resulted in marked bradycardia, lasting as long as the sedation and the ECG revealed a sinus arrhythmia with sinoatrial and atrioventricular blocks grade I and II as a sign of interference with transduction. The bradycardia with xylazine plus l-methadone was less pronounced. A decrease in respiratory rate accompanying sedation had no influence on blood gases and blood acidity in the dogs treated with medetomidine but caused a respiratory acidosis with xylazine plus l-methadone. Body temperature decreased with all treatments for the duration of the period of sedation. Blood glucose concentration increased to a similar extent in all treatment groups, but all other haematological and clinicochemical variables remained unchanged. Treatment with the specific alpha 2 antagonist, atipamezole, reversed the sedation and cardiovascular and pulmonary effects due to medetomidine within minutes.

[Control of ovulation in the mare with Ovuplant (short-term release of the GnRH analog deslorelin acetate). Overview of investigations from 1990 to 1994]

Ovuplant (deslorelin STI), when used in estrous mares with a follicle > or = 30 mm, reliably causes acceleration of ovulation and assurance that > 80% of the treated mares will ovulate within 48 hours. Time to ovulation is reduced by 30 hours or more. Treatment with Ovuplant had no adverse effects on pregnancy rates and did not increase the rate of early twin pregnancies. Treatment did not cause local or systemic side effects beyond short-term local irritation. Mares can be treated repeatedly without the development of tolerance or the loss of effectiveness. These studies have shown that Ovuplant can be used with a high level of assurance for success in the equine breeding industry. This will allow to reap benefits by reducing the number of breedings, saving stallion power and avoiding unnecessary inseminations. The mare has come an important step closer to a safe and effective management of ovulation.

Sedative and analgesic effects of detomidine and romifidine in horses

In a double blind study, eight horses were treated intravenously at seven-day intervals with detomidine at doses of 10, 20 and 40 micrograms/kg, or with romifidine at doses of 40, 80 and 120 micrograms/kg, or with a placebo solution. Their sedative and analgesic effects were evaluated by objective measurements and by a clinician at 15-minute intervals for three hours and the horses' instability in stocks, locomotor ataxia and heart rate were recorded simultaneously. The administration of both drugs at all doses resulted in sedation. The sedation achieved with romifidine was significantly shallower and shorter-lived than with detomidine at the recommended doses (P < 0.05). The results obtained with the highest dose of romifidine were in some cases significantly inferior and shorter-lived than those obtained with the medium dose (P < 0.05). Detomidine at the 10 micrograms/kg dose was similar in its effects to the two highest doses of romifidine. At all doses detomidine had analgesic properties against the effects of electrical pain stimulation at the withers, the coronary bands on the front and hind legs, and in the perianal region, which were dose-dependent in depth and duration, whereas romifidine was devoid of any analgesic effect. Instability and ataxia were more pronounced with detomidine than with romifidine but the effects were only slight to moderate and not regarded as a hindrance to procedures for which sedation is needed. Bradycardia was evident with both drugs at all doses; its severity and duration was related to the sedative properties of the drugs and was dose related. No other side effects were observed.

Acceleration and timing of fertile ovulation in cyclic mares with a deslorelin implant

In a blinded trial, the effectiveness and safety of 2.2 mg of the GnRH analog deslorelin acetate, administered in a short-term implant (STI) to normally cycling mares in estrus with a dominant ovarian follicle of 30 mm in diameter or larger, were evaluated, using a placebo implant as a negative control. A total of 39 mares received treatments at admittance with pre-randomized implants containing either 2.2 mg or 0 mg deslorelin. Mares were teased daily and examined rectally with ultrasound at 24 h intervals to determine time to ovulation and duration of estrus. The number of breedings and the pregnancy rate at 18 (+/- 3) and 38 (+/- 3) days were recorded, as were systemic side effects and local reactions at the implantation sites. Pregnancies resulting from breedings during the treatment estrus and/or from breedings during the next estrus were followed and the early and late pregnancy loss rate, the number of pregnancies going to term and of live-born foals was recorded. Mean follicle diameter at treatment was not significantly different between the deslorelin and placebo treatment group with 41.6 mm and 40.8 mm, respectively. Treatment with deslorelin STI reduced the time interval to ovulation significantly from 69.5 +/- 25.48 h to 42.7 +/- 12.35 h (p < 0.001). The percentage of mares having ovulated within 48 h rose from 26.3% to 95.0%, respectively, for placebo and deslorelin STI (p < 0.001). As a consequence, the duration of estrus in days and the percent of animals requiring more than 1 breeding were significantly reduced in deslorelin treated animals from 5.4 days to 4.6 days, and from 55.6% to 5.0%, respectively (p = 0.009 and = 0.001). The percent of mares pregnant from breedings at the treatment estrus (65.0% versus 44.4%) or the next estrus (83.3% versus 92.3%) was satisfactory and similar for deslorelin and placebo treated mares (p > 0.005), and in 70.0% and 66.7% of these once or twice bred mares did pregnancies go to term and live foals were born.

Advancing the time of ovulation in the mare with a short-term implant releasing the GnRH analogue deslorelin

A small, biocompatible and short-term implant releasing 1.5 mg or 2.25 mg of the GnRH analogue deslorelin was evaluated in 140 Hanoverian (warm blooded) mares during the 1990 breeding season (Study I). Mares in oestrus and with a follicle 40 +/- 2 mm in diameter were assigned alternately to treatment (70) or remained as untreated controls. Implants were administered subcutaneously, and intervals to ovulation determined by rectal examination and ultrasound at 12-h intervals. Since results with both doses of deslorelin were similar, data were pooled. Deslorelin implantation resulted in ovulations in 65 of 70 mares within 48 h (93%), while only 5 of 70 control mares ovulated within the same time period (7%) (P < 0.01). Most induced ovulations (63%) occurred 36-48 h after implantation. In Study II, 4 groups of 12 Hanoverian mares each were treated with 3,000 or 5,000 iu hCG, or a 2.25 mg deslorelin implant, or received placebo. All treatments resulted in 100% ovulations within 48 h, versus 25% ovulations in controls (P < 0.01), and 63%, 75% and 86% of these ovulations occurred 36-48 h after treatment with 3,000 and 5,000 iu hCG and deslorelin respectively. Hormonal response to deslorelin in treated mares, sampled every 12 h, consisted of elevations of FSH and LH concentrations of > 200% and > 300% baseline values at 12 h (P < 0.001), of 67% and 79% at 24 h (P < 0.01) and of 35% and 49% at 48 h (P < 0.05), respectively. No local reactions at the implantation site were observed.

[The effect of the sedative and analgesic detomidine for laryngoscopy of adult horses and foals]

Detomidine was used in this field trial effectively as a sedative and analgesic for laryngoscopic examinations in a total of 193 foals and 806 mature horses (Hanoverians). Detomidine was given either i.v. in foals 3 to 11 months old (20 micrograms/kg) and in mature horses (15 micrograms/kg), or i.m. in foals below 6 months of age (35 micrograms/kg). After i.v. administration, laryngoscopy was tolerated in more than 90% of all animals without additional use of a twitch, while in foals treated i.m. more than 70% required a twitch in order to enable this procedure. The effectiveness of detomidine was influenced by dose, route of administration, the time interval between treatment and examination and the degree of excitement before treatment, but not by sex. Profound bradycardia was evident in all treated animals, but arrhythmias were seen only in animals older than 4 months and were more pronounced in horses with a lower resting heart rate. These cardiovascular responses never endangered any of the treated animals. A transient dyspnea was seen in 13 foals (6.7%) and 10 horses (1.2%). Other side effects were rare. The foaling rate of 297 mares treated at any time during the first 8 months of pregnancy was 66.7%. A comparison with 5499 untreated, contemporary controls revealed a foaling rate of 61.0%. Hence treatments had no adverse effects on pregnancies.

Plasma glucocorticoid concentrations in calves as an indicator of stress during parturition

Plasma glucocorticoid concentrations and blood gas values were determined for 6 days in 47 newborn calves that had been subjected to various obstetrical procedures at term. Concentrations of glucocorticoids were uniformly high at birth (70 to 103 ng/ml). Increasing degrees of acidosis were accompanied by increasing glucocorticoid concentrations in plasma. Plasma glucocorticoid concentrations decreased sharply during the first 6 hours after delivery and reached a plateau at 48 hours after birth (14 to 21 ng/ml). The latter was taken as an indication that adaptation had been achieved. Calves subjected to severe pulling had higher glucocorticoid concentrations at birth (110.4 ng/ml) than calves requiring no assistance (88.3 ng/ml), calves requiring only slight assistance (83.8 ng/ml), or calves that had been delivered by cesarean section (82.9 ng/ml).

Field trial evaluation of detomidine as a sedative and analgesic in horses with colic

In this uncontrolled clinical study 12 investigators cooperated to evaluate the analgesic and sedative effect of detomidine (DORMOSEDAN; Farmos Group Ltd; Finland) in 234 horses with abdominal pain caused by colic. The study was designed to use each animal as its own control and to evaluate its response to the drug over a 60 min period. Detomidine was given intravenously (i.v.) once in 169 cases (167 horses, 1 mule, 1 donkey) at a dose of 20 micrograms/kg bodyweight (bwt), and to 65 horses at 40 micrograms/kg bwt. The higher dose was used predominantly in horses with severe pain which were more often in poor health and therefore given a poor prognosis. Sedation and analgesia, rated as satisfactory or highly satisfactory, was achieved in 96 per cent of cases, without obvious differences between doses, sex, breed and species. First clinical signs of sedation and analgesia were recorded within 2.5 and 3.2 mins, respectively, and deep sedation and analgesia were achieved by 4.2 and 5.1 mins. Objective evaluation of analgesia was based on clinical scores related to behaviour (eg sweating, kicking, pawing, head and body movement, stretching, lip curling, attitude and appetite). In five of seven of these parameters the 40 micrograms/kg bwt treatment scored higher initially (P < 0.001) and took longer to return to normal. Although most cases treated with 20 micrograms/kg bwt returned to almost normal levels by 15 mins, those treated with 40 micrograms/kg required 30 mins. Animals not responding to either dose of detomidine went to surgery and/or were destroyed. These involved intestinal strangulation, incarceration, and torsion or rotation of the intestinal tract. No differences were found between doses in the occurrence of side effects. As expected, heart rates and respiratory rates decreased and recovered slowly. Other side effects were recorded in approximately 37 per cent of cases and consisted of instability (27.1 per cent of all other side effects), sweating (14.5 per cent), cardiovascular abnormalities (arrhythmias: 15.1 per cent) and abnormal reactions to sensorial stimuli (6.6 per cent). Less than 20 per cent of the side effects were classified as 'strong' or 'very strong' and none was considered serious. No deaths were attributed to the drug.