Gastrointestinal foreign body obstruction is a frequently diagnosed ailment in small animal medicine and postoperative ileus can be a challenging sequela to manage. Nasogastric feeding tubes can be utilized after surgery for both quantification of gastric residual volumes to identify ileus as well as nutritional management in anorexic patients. This single-institution retrospective study assesses the association of gastric residual volumes measured via nasogastric feeding tubes with gastrointestinal signs and complications in dogs and cats undergoing foreign body surgery, with and without temporary nasogastric tube placement for postoperative management. In this retrospective study, 469 dogs and cats that had foreign body surgery within a 3-year period were included. These were arranged into two groups for analysis, 210 patients that had a nasogastric tubes placed and 259 that did not. Signalment, presenting clinical signs, and surgical procedure(s) performed were similar between groups, however, nasogastric tube placement was more likely for patients that underwent enterectomy (85.2%, p < 0.001). Total average gastric residual volume in the first 12 h after surgery was 2.0 mL/kg (range 0.0-38.9 mL/kg) and was 5.4 mL/kg (range 0.0-64.1 mL/kg) for the first 24 h. Frequency of upper gastrointestinal signs associated with postoperative ileus (vomiting and regurgitation) did not statistically differ between groups (14.4% vs. 14.7%, p = 0.118), however, with statistical analysis controlled for drug administration, the odds of vomiting and regurgitation were reduced approximately 50-60% for patients having nasogastric tubes placed and aspirated consistently (every 4-6 h) compared to those without. A gastric residual volume cut of >12 mL/kg over the first 24-h period after gastrointestinal foreign body surgery was most significantly associated with increased risk of vomiting and regurgitation (p = 0.058). Nasogastric tube placement was associated with substantially longer hospital stays after surgery (p < 0.001). Cats were less likely to have a feeding tube placed compared to dogs (35.5% vs. 47.1%) and were significantly less likely to regurgitate than dogs (1.1% vs. 17.6%, p = 0.001) despite some having higher gastric residual volumes. Additionally, usage of methadone in the perioperative period was associated with lower frequency of vomiting and regurgitation (p = 0.024). There was a low rate of complications associated with nasogastric tube placement noted in this study (2.9%).
This study investigated the effect of semen collection timing (06:00-08:00 h [morning] vs. 12:00-14:00 h [afternoon]) on semen quality in Thai native bulls under tropical heat stress conditions. Physiological responses, endocrine profiles, and sperm lipid peroxidation were also evaluated. Nine bulls were subjected to a multiple crossover design, with semen collection alternated between morning and afternoon periods across 12 sessions per animal. Environmental parameters, including temperature-humidity index (THI), were continuously monitored. Afternoon collections occurred under higher ambient temperature and THI (>81) than morning collections (77-80), accompanied by increased heart rate (93.88 vs. 79.75 beats/min; P < 0.001) and elevated average scrotal surface temperature (35.08 vs. 33.90 °C; P < 0.001). Serum cortisol concentrations did not differ between collection periods (2.36 vs. 2.18 ng/mL; P > 0.05), whereas testosterone levels were significantly higher in the afternoon (2.23 vs. 1.99 ng/mL; P < 0.05). Afternoon-collected semen exhibited higher total motility (82.80% vs. 76.02%; P < 0.05) and viability (83.68% vs. 77.24%; P < 0.05). However, acrosome integrity was significantly lower in afternoon collections than in morning collections (83.90% vs. 87.40%; P < 0.05), accompanied by higher malondialdehyde concentrations (1.15 vs. 0.84 µM/mL; P < 0.05). Midpiece abnormalities and bent tails with retained droplets were more prevalent in afternoon samples. These findings suggest a physiological trade-off between enhanced sperm motility and increased structural damage to sperm during afternoon semen collection under tropical heat stress. Morning collection may better preserve acrosome integrity and sperm morphology despite lower motility.
Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified common genetic risk loci for ischemic stroke (IS), primarily in European populations older than 55 years. We aimed to identify common and rare risk variants associated with early-onset IS (ages 18-54) in Taiwan. We conducted GWASs of early-onset and all IS cases, compared with stroke-free controls of Han ethnicity, using the Taiwan Precision Medicine Initiative database, which includes individuals from general outpatient clinics across 16 medical centers. To explore the functional relevance of stroke-associated variants, we investigated fine-mapping and linkage disequilibrium patterns, phenotype correlations using the TOAST etiologic classification in an independent IS cohort, phenome-wide association studies (PheWASs), and pathway enrichment analysis. Furthermore, we examined rare pathogenic variants using whole-exome sequencing in consecutive, unrelated early-onset sporadic and/or familial stroke probands. We identified a robust association between a novel risk locus and early-onset IS (5,546 cases vs 143,017 controls; mean age: 52.7 vs 40.6 years; female: 45.6% vs 58.7%), including the lead single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs541118668 (CYP4F3) (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.44-1.98; p = 6.86 × 10-11). In patients with all IS (21,544 cases vs 267,198 controls; mean age: 69.5 vs 53.7 years; female: 43.2% vs 55.5%), this locus and 6 other loci, including the reported rs12509595 (near FGF5) (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.04-1.08; p = 2.74 × 10-8) in East Asians, were significantly associated. The novel SNPs clustered on chromosome 19p13.12 and were associated with the small vessel occlusion (SVO) subtype in the independent IS cohort (n = 716, p < 0.05). The PheWASs of the risk variants revealed explicit associations with cerebrovascular diseases and no associations with other diseases. The enrichment pathway implicated CYP4F3 in lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses. Moreover, we discovered that 28 of 180 unrelated probands with early-onset IS (15.6%; 16/85 sporadic and 12/87 familial stroke) carried likely pathogenic variants, particularly those with SVO (NOTCH3, HTRA1, HBB, GJA1, and GP1BA) and cerebral venous infarction (PROS1 and F2). Our study identifies a novel age-specific genetic hotspot for IS at chromosome 19p13.12 in Han Chinese. Together with enrichment of subtype-specific rare pathogenic variants, these findings reveal a distinct genetic architecture underlying early-onset stroke in East Asians.
An enhanced recovery program (ERP) after cardiac surgery is a multidisciplinary care program aimed at reducing postoperative stress response, accelerating organ function recovery, and decreasing hospital length of stay (LOS). While ERP in cardiac surgery has shown promise, high-quality evidence remains limited. This study evaluates the impact of a postanaesthesia care unit (PACU) care (including postoperative ERP interventions) vs. conventional intensive care unit (ICU) care in patients undergoing aortic valve replacement (AVR) on hospital LOS. Retrospective cohort study with a Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, adjusting for BMI, EuroSCORE II and surgical access. Single academic medical centre. Patients undergoing AVR with EuroSCORE II =3 and BMI <40, admitted postoperatively to either the PACU or ICU between 2011 and 2020. While pre-operative and intra-operative management were identical, postoperative care was protocolised in the PACU based on the Enhanced Recovery after Cardiac Surgery (ERAS Cardiac) pathway. A total of 751 patients were included (345 receiving PACU care and 406 ICU care). The median hospital LOS (95% CI) was significantly shorter in the PACU care group (7 [6 to 9] vs. 9 [7 to 11] days, P < 0.0001) compared to ICU patients. PACU patients had a higher likelihood of early discharge [hazard ratio (HR) 1.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.46 to 1.92; P < 0.0001] and earlier removal of catheters, tube and drains, with similar reintervention (PACU vs. ICU: 4% vs. 5%, P = 0.39) and mortality rates (1% in both, P = 0.51). Compared with conventional ICU, PACU-ERP care was associated with a significant reduction in hospital LOS in low-risk patients undergoing AVR. These findings suggest integrating the postoperative elements of ERAS Cardiac as a standard of care. Nevertheless, further prospective studies are needed for validation.
Cabazitaxel, an anti-prostate cancer agent, is associated with dose-dependent cardiotoxicity mediated by oxidative stress. This study investigated cabazitaxel-induced cardiac injury, the utility of intraventricular pressure gradients for early detection, and the potential protective effects of resveratrol. Twenty male Sprague Dawley rats were allocated into four groups: control, therapeutic cabazitaxel (0.5 mg/kg/week, intraperitoneally), toxic cabazitaxel (1.5 mg/kg/week, intraperitoneally), and toxic cabazitaxel + resveratrol (1.5 mg/kg/week cabazitaxel + 10 mg/kg/day resveratrol, intraperitoneally) for 28 days. Cardiac function was assessed via conventional echocardiography, electrocardiography, and intraventricular pressure gradients under anesthesia. Blood samples and heart tissues were collected for further biochemical and histopathological evaluation. Toxic cabazitaxel administration induced significant RR prolongation and bradycardia compared with controls (RR: 0.21 ± 0.02 vs. 0.18 ± 0.02 s; heart rate: 285.88 ± 31.04 vs. 330.40 ± 27.24 bpm), accompanied by aortic dilatation (aortic diameter: 3.73 ± 0.29 vs. 3.28 ± 0.21 mm), reduced acceleration time to ejection time ratio (0.21 ± 0.04 vs. 0.32 ± 0.12), increased derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites: 394.75 ± 63.47 vs. 324.80 ± 15.56 U.CARR), elevated platelet counts (121.10 ± 26.48 vs. 81.65 ± 6.49 104/µL), decreased hemoglobin levels (14.26 ± 2.02 vs. 17.66 ± 1.014 g/dL), along with structural myocardial damage. Resveratrol co-administration reduced derivatives of reactive oxygen metabolites (372.40 ± 33.02), normalized aortic diameter, and improved acceleration time to ejection time ratio (3.09 ± 0.40 mm; 0.28 ± 0.06), enhanced electrocardiographic parameters (RR: 0.17 ± 0.01 s; heart rate: 352.24 ± 20.567), restored hemoglobin and platelet counts (15.94 ± 1.39 g/dL; 98.38 ± 28.41 104/µL), and preserved myocardial architecture. However, intraventricular pressure gradient indices remained elevated, and persistent thinning of the left ventricular posterior wall at end-diastole and end-systole was observed. These findings suggest that resveratrol partially mitigates cabazitaxel-induced cardiotoxicity.
Misconceptions can be defined as 'false, persistent beliefs' or 'inaccurate, prior knowledge' and can influence decision-making. To investigate the impact of evidence-based information on UK horse owners' decision-making for colic. Mixed-methods cross-sectional study. An online survey was distributed to UK horse owners, with four sections: owner demographics; views on decision-making and referral to an equine hospital facility for colic; current knowledge and approach to colic; impact of evidence-based information (including evidence on recognising and responding to colic, and colic surgery survival and outcome data) on decision-making. Statistical analysis was performed using Kendall's tau for continuous variables and Chi-squared testing for categorical variables. Multivariable analysis was performed using a generalised linear model with binomial distribution (logistic regression), with p < 0.05 for model fit. Content analysis was used for free-text answers. In total, 1544 participants met inclusion criteria. Owners were more likely to agree to referral if their horse was insured (p < 0.001, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.86-2.93), and less likely if their horse was older (p < 0.001, CI: 0.90-0.94) or they felt pressure (p < 0.001, CI: 0.44-0.70). Pressure to refer was mainly from veterinary professionals (66%, 367/549) or peers (20%, 110/549). Many participants were unaware of how quickly irreversible intestinal damage could occur (58%, 903/1544), costs of colic surgery and UK insurance cover limits (63%, 966/1544), post-operative survival rates for geriatric vs. non-geriatric horses (65%; 996/1544), or prognosis for return to work following colic surgery (68%, 1052/1544). Sharing evidence-based information had limited impact on decision-making. Free text response analysis identified previous experience of colic, anecdotal information, finances and peer pressures as barriers to change. Potential for response bias, UK participants only. Misconceptions around colic were common, with many horse owners reluctant to change their approach after evidence-based information. Intent to pursue referral was less likely with increasing horse age and perceived pressure to refer. Fehlvorstellungen können als “falsche, persistierende Überzeugungen” oder als “ungenaues Vorwissen” definiert werden und können Entscheidungsprozesse beeinflussen. Untersuchung des Einflusses evidenzbasierter Informationen auf die Entscheidungsfindung von Pferdebesitzern in Großbritannien bei Kolikerkrankungen. Mixed‐Methods‐Querschnittsstudie. Eine Online‐Umfrage wurde unter Pferdebesitzern in Großbritannien durchgeführt und umfasste vier Abschnitte: Demografie der Besitzer; Einstellungen zur Entscheidungsfindung und Überweisung bei Kolik; aktuelles Wissen und Vorgehen bei Kolik; Einfluss evidenzbasierter Informationen (einschließlich Informationen zur Erkennung und zum Umgang mit Kolik sowie Überlebens‐ und Outcome‐Daten zur Kolikchirurgie) auf die Entscheidungsfindung. Die statistische Analyse erfolgte mittels Kendall's Tau für kontinuierliche Variablen und Chi‐Quadrat‐Tests für kategoriale Variablen. Eine multivariable Analyse wurde mit einem generalisierten linearen Modell mit binomialer Verteilung (logistische Regression) durchgeführt; p < 0,05 wurde als Kriterium für Modellanpassung verwendet. Für Freitextantworten wurde eine Inhaltsanalyse durchgeführt. Insgesamt erfüllten 1544 Teilnehmende die Einschlusskriterien. Besitzer stimmten einer Überweisung eher zu, wenn ihr Pferd versichert war (p < 0,001; 95% KI: 1,86–2,93), und weniger häufig, wenn ihr Pferd älter war (p < 0,001; KI: 0,90–0,94) oder wenn sie Druck empfanden (p < 0,001; KI: 0,44–0,70). Der Druck zur Überweisung kam hauptsächlich von Tierärzten (66%, 367/549) oder von Gleichgesinnten (20%, 110/549). Viele Teilnehmer wussten nicht, wie schnell irreversible Darmschäden auftreten können (58%, 903/1544), kannten weder die Kosten einer Kolikoperation noch die Deckungsgrenzen britischer Versicherungen (63%, 966/1544), die postoperativen Überlebensraten bei geriatrischen im Vergleich zu nicht‐geriatrischen Pferden (65%, 996/1544) oder die Prognose für eine Rückkehr zur Arbeit nach einer Kolikoperation (68%, 1052/1544). Das Teilen evidenzbasierter Informationen hatte nur begrenzten Einfluss auf die Entscheidungsfindung. Die Analyse der Freitextantworten identifizierte frühere Kolikerfahrungen, anekdotische Informationen, finanzielle Faktoren und sozialen Druck als Barrieren für Veränderungen. Mögliches Antwortbias; ausschließlich Teilnehmende aus Großbritannien. Fehlvorstellungen über Kolik waren häufig, und viele Pferdebesitzer waren trotz evidenzbasierter Informationen nur begrenzt bereit, ihr Vorgehen zu ändern. Die Bereitschaft zu einer Überweisung nahm mit zunehmendem Alter des Pferdes sowie bei wahrgenommenem Druck zur Überweisung ab.
Many patients with coronary artery disease are eligible for either percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Technical and clinical aspects influence the decision for either treatment. However, biological effects of PCI and CABG on long-term coronary artery anatomy and physiology should be considered but are largely unknown. Eight German landrace swine were used in this study. An artificial atherosclerotic plaque (AAP) was implanted into the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) to simulate coronary atherosclerosis. Physiological changes of PCI and surgical CABG in vascular and perivascular tissue were assessed in an ex vivo setting (organ care system OCS). Furthermore, radiological and nuclear imaging was performed using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and computed tomography (CT). Furthermore, interventional (PCI) and surgical (CABG) treatment was evaluated using an ex-vivo setting. Lymphatic flow and myocardial perfusion were improved in pigs in the CABG group compared to the PCI group. The PCI group showed a significantly higher mean count number proximal to the intervention in the LAD area. Stenting experiments showed a significantly higher mean count number proximal to the intervention in the LAD area. This effect could also be demonstrated macroscopically, as myocardial infarct areas were smaller and myocardial function was better after defibrillation in the OCS (organ care system) in the CABG treated hearts. The artificial atherosclerotic plaque model in porcine hearts is a new valuable tool to simulate coronary artery stenosis without damaging other organs. It may serve as a tool for future medical testing and for further specific research on coronary artery physiology. Our data suggest that the cardiac lymphatic vascular system and perfusion capability are partly restricted after PCI as compared to CABG.
Primary stability and long-term osseointegration depend on bone healing surrounding dental implants. Implant macrogeometry is crucial for controlling insertion torque and the biological reaction of peri-implant bone. This study assessed the impact of an implant design meant to lessen cortical bone compression on early bone healing. Forty titanium prototype implants (3 × 6 mm) were equally divided into Control (standard macrogeometry) and Test (macrogeometry with healing chambers) groups. Initial insertion torque was measured in vitro using synthetic bone blocks. Subsequently, an in vivo rabbit tibia model was used (n = 10 implants per group) to assess early healing. At 21 days, histological sections were analyzed for bone-to-implant contact (BIC%) at three cervical positions (C1, C2, and C3). Additionally, digital radiographs of the cervical region were evaluated using RGB color mapping, where distinct color channels quantified varying degrees of bone density. The in vitro insertion torque for the Control group was significantly greater than the Test group (8.01 vs. 5.70 Ncm). The in vivo histomorphometric analysis indicated improved integration for the Test design, showing substantially higher BIC% at the C2 (59.30% vs. 40.30%) and C3 (42.10% vs. 17.90%) positions. Furthermore, radiographic RGB analysis revealed that the Test group possessed a higher blue channel contribution, indicating greater mineralized tissue density. These results imply that modifying implant macrogeometry to lower insertion torque and minimize cortical bone compression favorably enhances early cervical bone healing and osseointegration.
The anesthetic management of female dogs with mammary neoplasia, usually classified as ASA II and undergoing invasive procedures such as mastectomy and ovariohysterectomy, requires effective sedation and anesthetic stability due to the increased anesthetic risk associated with advanced age and underlying disease. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the sedative effects and reduction in anesthetic requirements of a full-spectrum cannabis oil (FSCO) containing cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in female dogs undergoing mastectomy and ovariohysterectomy. Twenty dogs were randomly assigned to two groups: group A (n = 10), treated with FSCO (0.02 mL/kg PO; 0.2 mg/kg CBD and 0.12 mg/kg THC) twice daily for seven days, plus 0.2 mL/kg (2 mg/kg CBD; 1.2 mg/kg THC) one hour before premedication; and group B (n = 10), treated with placebo. Groups A and B had similar ages (9.6; 10.2 years) and weights (7.4; 6.8 kg). Anesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with sevoflurane. Outcomes included sedation scores, anesthetic requirements, rescue analgesia, responses to instrumentation, and adverse effects. The treated group required less propofol (2.33 vs. 5.98 mg/kg; p = 0.001) and lower sevoflurane concentrations from T0 to T4 (p < 0.05). Sedation scores were higher at 40 and 60 min (median of 4 vs. 0, and 6.5 vs. 0.5; p = 0.015 and p = 0.002, respectively). Fewer treated dogs required rescue analgesia (3/10 vs. 6/10; p = 0.178). No differences were observed in catheterization, intubation, or adverse effects. Preoperative CBD/THC oil produced sedative effects and reduced anesthetic requirements without clinical complications. These findings support the potential of cannabinoids as safe adjuvants in multimodal anesthesia in veterinary medicine.
Magnesium acts as a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist and may attenuate central sensitization. Evidence regarding its analgesic- or anaesthetic-sparing effects in dogs remains inconclusive. This prospective, randomized, blinded, controlled clinical study evaluated the effect of intraoperative magnesium sulphate on postoperative pain in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy (OVH). Twenty-eight bitches were randomly allocated to receive magnesium sulphate (n = 14; 50 mg kg-1 IV dose followed by 20 mg kg-1 h-1) or saline (n = 14). An a priori power analysis (α = 0.05, power = 0.8) determined that 28 dogs were required to detect a 2-point difference in the short-form Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale (CMPS-SF) scores (SD 1.8; Cohen's d = 1.11). Anaesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with isoflurane. Postoperative pain (primary outcome) was assessed using the CMPS-SF for 48 h. Continuous variables were analyzed using independent-samples t-tests or repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni correction; categorical variables were compared using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test. Significance was set at p < 0.05. All dogs completed the study (n = 28). Mean CMPS-SF scores at 1 h post-extubation were significantly lower in the Magnesium group compared with the Control group (3.9 ± 1.5 vs. 5.8 ± 1.9; p = 0.012). Pain scores varied over time (F = 72.368, p < 0.01), with a significant time x treatment interaction (F = 2.851, p = 0.004). Intraoperative fentanyl requirements (0.3 ± 0.6 vs. 0.6 ± 0.8 μg kg-1; p = 0.275) and postoperative rescue analgesia rates (21.4% vs. 35.7%; p = 0.673) did not differ between groups. The propofol induction dose was significantly lower in the Magnesium group (2.8 ± 0.5 vs. 3.7 ± 0.4 mg kg-1; p < 0.01), whereas end-tidal isoflurane concentrations were similar (p = 0.112). Extubation time and time to first head movement were prolonged in the Magnesium group (p < 0.01). Postoperative serum magnesium concentrations were significantly higher in the Magnesium group (p < 0.01), while adverse effects did not differ between groups (35.7% vs. 21.4%; p = 0.683). Intraoperative magnesium administration in dogs undergoing OVH, within a multimodal protocol, improved early postoperative analgesia and reduced propofol requirements without an opioid- or isoflurane-sparing effect. The dosing regimen was well tolerated, although recovery duration was prolonged. Clinical impact may be more evident in more invasive procedures or opioid-free approaches.
Information on the classical and alternative circulating renin-angiotensin-aldosterone systems (RAAS) in cats with non-hypertensive chronic kidney disease (NHT-CKD) or systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) is limited. Age and diet affect the RAAS. To compare serum equilibrium concentrations of angiotensin peptides and aldosterone in healthy cats and cats with NHT-CKD or untreated SAH, and to evaluate changes in these concentrations in hypertensive cats administered amlodipine. Client-owned cats with NHT-CKD (serum creatinine ≥ 1.6 mg/dL, systolic blood pressure [SBP] < 160 mmHg; n = 17), SAH (SBP ≥ 160 mmHg or ≥ 150 mmHg with hypertensive ocular lesions; n = 6), or normal SBP (<140 mmHg) and kidney function (n = 17). Prospective, single-center, observational study. Cats underwent indirect SBP measurement and clinicopathologic analyses. Serum was obtained contemporaneously in all cats, and after 2-4 weeks of amlodipine therapy in hypertensive cats, for evaluation of angiotensin I, II, III, IV, 1-5, and 1-7, and aldosterone. Adjusting for diet, age, or both modified the conclusions of statistical comparisons for several variables. Mean serum angiotensin I, II, and III concentrations were lower in cats with untreated SAH vs healthy controls across unadjusted and diet-, age-, or both diet- and age-adjusted linear mixed models (geometric mean [95% CI] angiotensin I, 9.02 [3.05-26.62] vs 29.78 [21.15-41.94] pmol/L; angiotensin II, 33.63 [12.25-92.26] vs 124.24 [90.52-170.51] pmol/L; angiotensin III, 1.56 [0.88-2.79] vs 7.96 [5.35-11.86] pmol/L; all P ≤ .038). Controlling for diet but not age, angiotensin II (P = .043) and III (P = .019) were also lower in cats with NHT-CKD vs controls. All angiotensin peptides, except for angiotensin IV, significantly increased in hypertensive cats during amlodipine therapy. Serum aldosterone did not differ between groups, or before and after amlodipine in hypertensive cats. Evidence of circulating RAAS activation in cats with NHT-CKD or untreated SAH was not found.
Flexible intramedullary nails (FINs) are commonly used in children and adolescents to treat long bone fractures, but few studies exist in animals. This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical performance of FINS for the stabilization of transverse femoral fractures in cats. Fifteen bones were kept intact, while in another 15 bones, a mid-diaphyseal transverse fracture was induced and stabilized with two steel FINs of equal diameter, advanced divergently toward the greater trochanter and femoral neck, with end caps applied to the free ends. Five constructs and five intact bones were subjected to axial compression, four-point bending, and torsion tests. In axial compression, intact bones showed higher mean maximum force (1090.51 N vs. 608.43 N) and stiffness (845.98 vs. 298.86 N/m) than constructs. In bending, intact bones reached a maximum force of 1384.75 N, whereas a distinct maximum force could not be determined for the constructs; stiffness was also greater (1580.92 vs. 13.32 N/m). In torsion, intact bones demonstrated substantially higher mean maximum force (6.764 vs. 0.166 Nm) and stiffness (32.11 vs. 1.04 Nm/rad) than constructs. In conclusion, FINs with end caps demonstrate low construct stiffness, particularly under torsional loads, when used to stabilize mid-diaphyseal transverse femoral fractures in cats.
Background: Infection following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a challenging complication. Optimal empirical antibiotic therapy and surgical management hinge on up-to-date knowledge of local pathogen distribution and resistance patterns. However, few studies have examined whether geographical factors, specifically rural versus urban residence, influence the microbiology or clinical outcomes of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) within integrated healthcare systems. The goal of this study was to assess the temporal evolution of bacterial species and antimicrobial resistance in knee PJI over an 11-year period. As a secondary objective, we wanted to evaluate the potential impact of patient residence on microbiological trends and treatment success. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients diagnosed with knee PJI who underwent surgical treatment between 2013 and 2023 at our center. Infections were classified as acute postoperative, acute hematogenous, or chronic. Patient residence was categorized as rural (<5000 inhabitants) or urban. Temporal trends were modeled using Poisson regression, and comparisons between subgroups were performed using Fisher's exact test and Student's t-test. Results: A total of 98 patients were analyzed, with 99 microorganisms identified. Gram-positive organisms predominated (72.3%), with Staphylococcus aureus (33.3%) and Coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNS) (29.3%) as the most frequent isolates. Resistance to vancomycin was not detected in S. aureus isolates. However, CoNS demonstrated high resistance to fluoroquinolones (55.2%) and rifampicin (20.7%). No significant annual shifts were observed for Gram-positive (IRR = 0.94; 95% CI: 0.86-1.03; p = 0.413) or Gram-negative cases (IRR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.53-1.05; p = 0.086). Comparing rural versus urban populations, no differences were found in microbiological profiles (Fisher's exact test, all p > 0.05). Furthermore, clinical treatment success rates were comparable (Rural 69.4% vs. Urban 63.0%, p = 0.500), despite a significantly higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus in rural patients (34.7% vs. 10.2%, p = 0.007). Conclusions: The microbiological landscape of knee PJI has remained stable, with no emergence of multidrug-resistant S. aureus. In our setting, standardized management protocols appeared to be equally effective regardless of patient residence. However, given the single-center nature and sample size of this study, broader multicenter validation is required before these findings can be generalized.
The glycolytic enzyme neuron-specific enolase (NSE) shows high expression in neurons, generating interest as a diagnostic biomarker for neurologic diseases. However, assays measuring NSE protein concentration (NSE-p) have yielded inconsistent diagnostic results. This was an observational study to investigate NSE enzymatic activity (NSE-a) as a biomarker in dogs to distinguish neurologic vs musculoskeletal causes of gait abnormalities. We hypothesized that NSE-a would be superior to NSE-p for detecting neurologic conditions. Client-owned dogs presenting with gait abnormalities were enrolled as: (1) neurology service (n = 10), (2) orthopedic surgery and sports medicine and rehabilitation (SMR) (n = 21), and (3) control dermatology patients without gait abnormalities (n = 3). Inclusion required clinical examination by diplomates or residents of the relevant service and confirmed diagnoses based on radiography, ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Serum NSE-p was measured using validated commercial ELISA kits for use in dogs. Plasma NSE-a was quantified using an NSE functional activity assay (NSE-FA, TETmedical). A secondary experiment compared the techniques using plasma samples from dogs with neurological gait abnormalities. Neurologic dogs showed significantly increased plasma NSE-a (median, 0.372; IQR, 0.274-0.407) compared with orthopedic and SMR dogs (median, 0.212; IQR, 0.154-0.259; P = .001) and controls (median, 0.218; IQR, 0.15-0.226; P = .03). Direct comparison indicated that NSE-p fell below detection thresholds whereas NSE-a remained measurable. Our results suggest that NSE-a is superior to NSE-p for differentiating neurologic from musculoskeletal gait abnormalities. Future research should explore its potential as a point-of-care biomarker for patients with suspected neurologic conditions.
Osteochondrosis and osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) are among the most common orthopaedic disorders in young horses. Although traditionally explained by vascular failure and ischaemic necrosis, recent findings in human juvenile OCD suggest that impaired bone mineralization may play an important role. Horses are known to have relatively low circulating vitamin D metabolites, raising the question of whether insufficient mineralization contributes to equine OCD. This study investigated the bone vitality and mineralization status of osteochondrosis dissecans fragments (OCDFs) collected from the dorsomedioproximal aspect of the proximal phalanx and compared them with control bone from the corresponding anatomic region in non-affected horses. Micro-CT, undecalcified histology, histomorphometry, and quantitative backscattered electron imaging (qBEI) were used to assess bone vitality, osteoid accumulation, and mineral content. All OCDFs showed vital bone tissue without any evidence of osteonecrosis. Histomorphometry revealed a pronounced accumulation of osteoid by means of osteoid per tissue volume (control: 0.49% ± 0.36% vs. OCD: 2.85% ± 1.45%, p = 0.0001). Micro-CT demonstrated reduced bone tissue mineral density in OCD (control: 843.7 mgHA/cm3 ± 31.3 mgHA/cm3 vs. OCD: 779.0 mgHA/cm3 ± 37.0 mgHA/cm3, p < 0.0001) confirmed by qBEI. Our results indicate that equine OCDFs contain vital bone with impaired mineralization rather than necrotic tissue. This pattern mirrors findings in human juvenile OCD and supports the hypothesis that a metabolic mineralization disorder contributed to the pathogenesis of equine OCD.
Despite concerns among equine practitioners, the effects of opioid administration on intraoperative complications during inhalation anesthesia remain incompletely characterized. This retrospective study evaluated intraoperative complications and perianesthetic mortality in horses undergoing inhalation anesthesia according to opioid use. Medical records from a university veterinary hospital were reviewed (2014-2025) and grouped based on opioid inclusion in anesthetic protocols and surgery type (colic vs. non-colic). Intraoperative hypotension (MAP < 70 mmHg), hypothermia (temperature < 35 °C), hypercapnia (EtCO2 or PaCO2 > 65 mmHg), and hypoxemia (PaO2 < 60 mmHg or SpO2 < 90%) were recorded. Perianesthetic mortality included deaths from premedication to seven days post-operatively. Proportions were compared using chi-squared tests (P < 0.05). Hypotension was the most frequent complication (338/426; 79.3%), followed by hypothermia (94/426; 22.0%), hypoxemia (43/426; 10.0%), and hypercapnia (27/426; 6.3%). Opioid use was only associated with hypothermia (P = 0.001); however, opioids were also more commonly administered during procedures lasting > 3 hours, and hypothermia was more prevalent in these procedures (P < 0.0001). Overall perianesthetic mortality was 7.9% (34/426) and was higher in colic cases (27/219 [12.3%]) than in non-colic cases (7/207 [3.3%]) (P < 0.001), as well as in horses with elevated ASA classifications (2/173 [1.1%] in ASA I-II vs. 32/253 [12.6%] in ASA III-V; P < 0.001). Opioid administration during equine inhalation anesthesia does not appear to increase intraoperative complications or perianesthetic mortality, and the association with hypothermia was likely influenced by anesthesia duration.
Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a chronic zoonotic parasitic disease with a significant impact on public health in endemic regions. The liver is the most frequently affected organ, and ultrasound-based surveys are considered a reliable tool for detecting asymptomatic infections. As population-based data specifically addressing hepatic CE prevalence in Türkiye remain limited, we aimed to assess the prevalence of liver cystic echinococcosis in Türkiye using only ultrasound-based surveys. Methods: A systematic review was conducted, in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, to estimate the prevalence of liver CE in Türkiye based exclusively on ultrasound-based field surveys. Electronic databases (PubMed and Scopus) were searched up to March 2026. Eligible studies included population-based human screening surveys reporting hepatic CE prevalence confirmed via ultrasonography. Data were extracted and descriptively pooled, with subgroup analyses performed according to age group (children vs. adults) and residential setting (urban vs. rural). The protocol was prospectively registered in the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (INPLASY; registration Number: INPLASY202630029). Only human ultrasound-based screening studies including liver CE data were accepted; alveolar echinococcosis studies were excluded. Pooled prevalence estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model, and between-study heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 statistic. Results: We analyzed the data of 23,154 people from 11 different provinces reported in 8 studies. The overall pooled liver CE prevalence was 0.31% (95% CI: 0.14-0.54), while it was 0.12% and 0.43% for urban and rural residents, respectively. Adults had higher prevalence of liver CE than children (0.43% vs. 0.16%). When separated by both living area and age, the prevalence rates were as follows: urban children 0.07%, urban adults 0.21%, rural children 0.29% and rural adults 0.60%. Conclusions: This is the first systematic review evaluating the prevalence of liver CE in Türkiye exclusively from ultrasound-based studies. While the overall prevalence of liver CE was 0.31%, adults living in rural areas presented a nearly two-fold higher rate (0.60%). Ultrasound-based screening provides a practical and effective approach for epidemiological surveillance. Targeted control strategies-including community-based screening, health education, and veterinary interventions-are essential to reduce transmission and disease burden, particularly in high-risk rural populations.
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common canine hepatobiliary tumour. This study aimed to determine which criteria influenced outcome of HCC in a modern population of dogs across eight institutions. The medical records of 106 dogs with HCC were retrospectively reviewed. Inclusion criteria included histopathologic diagnosis of HCC and adequate follow-up. Prognostic factors were evaluated for their effect on median survival time (MST). Massive HCCs (80%) were most common and had the longest MST (1000 days), which was significantly longer than nodular or diffuse forms. Bloodwork abnormalities at diagnosis included elevated liver enzymes (94%), thrombocytosis (26%) and neutrophilia (15%). Thrombocytosis and neutrophilia were associated with shorter median survival compared to dogs with normal values (629 vs. 1000 days; 583 vs. 976 days, respectively). MST for 104 dogs treated surgically was longer than medically treated dogs (945 vs. 265 days). Chemotherapy administered in 14 dogs did not improve outcome. The retrospective nature and multi-institutional study design limited the standardisation of diagnostics, treatment and follow-up. Consistent with previous studies, massive HCC carries a better prognosis than nodular or diffuse forms. Surgery remains the mainstay of treatment for massive HCC. Thrombocytosis or neutrophilia at diagnosis may predict worse outcomes.
As assisted reproductive technologies in wild felids gain importance, establishing reliable protocols for sample transport becomes a priority. The recent development of ovum pick-up (OPU) techniques in felids has highlighted the lack of standardized protocols for oocyte transport, particularly under field conditions. This study evaluated the effects of oocyte recovery method (slicing vs ex vivo OPU) and oocyte transport conditions on subsequent in vitro developmental competence and embryo production. In an initial experiment, ovaries were stored at 4 °C for 24 h to examine the effect of whole-ovary transport. No significant differences were observed in blastocyst production rate compared with controls processed immediately (9.8% vs 16.1%). In two additional experiments, oocytes recovered either by slicing (SLI) or OPU were processed immediately (0 h) or after 18 h in embryo holding medium, and nuclear maturation (experiment 2), cleavage, and embryo development (experiment 3) were evaluated. No significant interaction was detected between storage time and processing method (P > 0.05), suggesting that the influence of storage time on the assessed parameter was independent of the processing method. Additionally, neither storage time nor processing method showed significant main effects (P > 0.05). The maturation stage was also unaffected. Blastocyst production was more sensitive to storage duration than earlier stages, with rates of 22.6% (SLI 0 h) vs 11.9% (SLI 18 h) and 27.0% (OPU 0 h) vs 13.0% (OPU 18 h). Despite lower developmental outcomes compared with other species, acceptable blastocyst yields and hatched embryos were obtained across treatments. These findings support the short-term maintenance of feline oocytes at room temperature in holding medium and highlight its potential value for felid in vitro embryo production programs when immediate laboratory processing is not feasible.
Lung transplantation is the definitive therapy for end-stage respiratory diseases. To expand the donor lung pool, ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) has been developed for the assessment of marginal donor lungs. However, current evaluation methods remain limited. This study aimed to develop non-invasive imaging and monitoring techniques for the quantitative and early assessment of pulmonary function during EVLP. Three novel approaches were established: (1) lung thermography during the initial reperfusion period to assess pulmonary function, (2) optical oxygen saturation (SaO₂) imaging to assess pulmonary oxygenation, and (3) real-time lung weight measurement as an early indicator of transplant suitability. Lung thermography revealed that lung surface temperature at 8 min after shunt closure was significantly lower in non-suitable cases than in suitable cases (25.1 ± 0.6 °C vs. 27.8 ± 1.2 °C, P < 0.01). Optical SaO₂ imaging demonstrated a strong correlation between lower lobe SaO₂ calculated from SaO₂ imaging and PaO2/FiO2 (P/F) ratio in the lower pulmonary vein (R = 0.855, P < 0.01), with SaO₂ being significantly lower in non-suitable cases. Real-time lung weight measurement showed that lung weight gain increased significantly after 40 min in non-suitable cases compared with suitable cases (51.6 ± 46.0 g vs. -8.8 ± 25.7 g, P < 0.01). These three approaches proved effective for the quantitative and early assessment of pulmonary function during EVLP. This review was created based on a translation of the Japanese review written in the Japanese Journal of Artificial Organs in 2024 (Vol. 53, No. 3, pp. 216-220).