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Introduction/objectives: We investigated the association of breed, age, weight, duration of therapy, and selected blood and echocardiographic variables with the survival of dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF) due to myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD). We also sought to identify differences in selected echocardiographic and routine blood variables between dogs with stable and unstable CHF and between hospitalized and nonhospitalized patients. Animals, materials and methods: This retrospective study included dogs with a complete cardiovascular workup. Blood analysis and the initial and final echocardiographic results were included. Covariates were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models. Results: One hundred sixty-five dogs with MMVD were evaluated in this study: 96 stable patients and 69 unstable CHF patients. In total, 107 dogs (64.8%) died, and 58 (35.2%) were censored. The median survival time of the dogs that died was 11.5 months (range 11 days to 4.3 years). Unstable CHF patients had significantly higher neutrophils and lower potassium concentrations than stable CHF patients, and hospitalized patients had higher white blood cell, neutrophil, and monocyte counts, and urea and creatinine concentrations than nonhospitalized patients. Variables negatively associated with survival were older age, unstable CHF, duration of therapy, white blood cell count, urea concentration and left atrium to aorta ratio. Chihuahuas had a lower risk of death. Conclusions: Selected blood and echocardiographic variables distinguish dogs with stable and unstable CHF and predict survival.

Brachycephalic dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) are a valuable animal model for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in humans. Clinical signs of upper airway obstruction improve after surgical treatment of BOAS, but the impact of surgery on morphology and function of the heart has not been studied. Therefore, we aimed to compare the echocardiographic variables of dogs before and after surgical treatment of BOAS. We included 18 client-owned dogs with BOAS (7 French Bulldogs, 6 Boston Terriers, and 5 Pugs) scheduled for surgical correction. We performed a complete echocardiographic examination before and 6 to 12 (median 9) months after surgery. Seven non-brachycephalic dogs were included in the control group. After surgery, BOAS patients had a significantly (p

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of a therapeutic renal diet on selected clinical, biochemical, and urinary parameters and on selected parameters of oxidative stress in cats with early stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). A prospective study of a 3-month duration was conducted to evaluate the effect of renal diet on selected clinical and laboratory parameters in client-owned cats with early stages of CKD. Of a total of 29 enrolled client-owned cats, nineteen (19) cats completed the study, ten receiving renal diet and nine receiving a diet of the owner’s choice. A clinical examination was performed, and blood and urine samples were collected on the day of presentation and at regular check-ups after 3-4, 7-8, and 10-12 weeks. Serum creatinine and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) concentrations and selected parameters of oxidative stress (plasma glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum selenium concentrations), were measured and electrophoresis of urinary proteins was performed. At inclusion, a significant positive correlation (p < 0.001) was found between serum selenium concentration and plasma GPX activity (Pearson correlation coefficient 0.83 (95% CI: [0.65 - 0.92]) and a significant negative correlation (p < 0.001) between serum SDMA and urine specific gravity (Pearson correlation coefficient -0.70 (95% CI: [-0.87 - (-0.38)]). At the end of the 3-month feeding trial no significant difference was found in SDMA and creatinine concentrations. UČINEK MONOTERAPEVTSKE LEDVIČNE DIETE NA KLINIČNE, BIOKEMIJSKE, URINSKE IN SERUMSKE PARAMETRE OKSIDATIVNEGA STRESA PRI MAČKAH S CDK STOPNJE 1 IN 2 Izvleček: Namen študije je bil raziskati učinek terapevtske ledvične diete na izbrane klinične, biokemijske in urinske parametre ter parametre oksidativnega stresa pri mačkah v začetnih stopnjah kronične ledvične bolezni (KLB). Raziskava je bila zasnovana kot prospektivna, tri mesece trajajoča klinična študija, v katero je bilo vključenih 29 lastniških mačk. Devetnajst mačk je zaključilo študijo, od teh jih je deset prejemalo ledvično dieto, devet pa vzdrževalno dieto po izboru lastnika. Pri vseh mačkah smo izvedli klinični pregled in odvzem krvnih ter urinskih vzorcev na dan vključitve v študijo in pri treh kontrolnih pregledih, ki so bili izvedeni 3–4, 7–8 in 10–12 tednov kasneje. Določili smo serumsko koncentracijo kreatinina, simetričnega dimetilarginina (SDMA) in izbrane parametre oksidativnega stresa (aktivnost plazemske glutation peroksidaze (GPX) in plazemska koncentracija malondialdehida (MDA) ter serumska koncentracija selena). Poleg tega smo izvedli elektroforezo urinskih proteinov. Ob vključitvi mačk v raziskavo smo ugotovili značilno pozitivno korelacijo (p < 0,001) med serumsko koncentracijo selena in aktivnostjo plazemske GPX (Pearsonov korelacijski koeficient 0,83, 95 % CI: [0,65–0,92]) ter značilno negativno korealcijo (p < 0,001) med koncentracijo SDMA in specifično težo urina (Pearsonov korelacijski koeficient –0,70 (95 % CI: [–0,87–(–0,38)]). Trimesečno hranjenje s terapevtsko hrano ni privedlo do značilnih sprememb v serumski koncentraciji SDMA in kreatinina pri vključenih mačkah. Ključne besede: klinični parametri; simetrični dimetilarginin; oksidativni stres; ledvična dieta; mačke; kronična ledvična bolezen; elektroforeza urinskih proteinov

Background In this prospective study, we hypothesized that dogs with signs of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) would show differences in left and right heart echocardiographic parameters compared with brachycephalic dogs without signs of BOAS and non-brachycephalic dogs. Results We included 57 brachycephalic (30 French Bulldogs 15 Pugs, and 12 Boston Terriers) and 10 non-brachycephalic control dogs. Brachycephalic dogs had significantly higher ratios of the left atrium to aorta and mitral early wave velocity to early diastolic septal annular velocity; smaller left ventricular (LV) diastolic internal diameter index; and lower tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion index, late diastolic annular velocity of the LV free wall, peak systolic septal annular velocity, late diastolic septal annular velocitiy, and right ventricular global strain than non-brachycephalic dogs. French Bulldogs with signs of BOAS had a smaller diameter of the left atrium index and right ventricular systolic area index; higher caudal vena cava at inspiration index; and lower caudal vena cava collapsibility index, late diastolic annular velocity of the LV free wall, and peak systolic annular velocity of the interventricular septum than non-brachycephalic dogs. Conclusions The differences in echocardiographic parameters between brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic dogs, brachycephalic dogs with signs of BOAS and non-brachycephalic dogs, and brachycephalic dogs with and without signs of BOAS indicate higher right heart diastolic pressures affecting right heart function in brachycephalic dogs and those with signs of BOAS. Most changes in cardiac morphology and function can be attributed to anatomic changes in brachycephalic dogs alone and not to the symptomatic stage.

General anesthesia increases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can exacerbate or increase oxidative stress and thus affect the prognosis of surgical procedures. Oxidative stress has been implicated in the development of cardiovascular, dermatologic, oncologic, and other diseases in dogs, as well as ischemia and reperfusion injury. Some anesthetics, such as halogenated anesthetics, have been shown to stimulate the production of ROS, while others, such as propofol, have antioxidant properties. However, the antioxidant effects of these anesthetics may not be sufficient to counteract oxidative damage at the doses used clinically. Nevertheless, the effects of anesthetics should be considered to minimize oxidative damage during anesthesia in dogs to improve the outcome of procedures requiring general anesthesia. This mini-review addresses the current knowledge on oxidative stress during inhalational and intravenous anesthesia in dogs. There is still a lack of information on the management of anesthesia in dogs with respect to oxidative stress. Further research, including comprehensive clinical studies is needed to better understand oxidative injury mechanisms and improve perioperative protocols during anesthesia in dogs.

Background Data on alterations in peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) subtypes in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is lacking. Objectives To investigate PBL subtypes and their correlation with parameters of inflammation and MMVD progression markers in dogs with different stages of MMVD. Animals Seventy-eight client-owned dogs: 65 with MMVD (American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine [ACVIM] classification stages B2, C, and D) and 13 healthy controls. Methods Prospective cross-sectional study. Complete cardiac assessment, flow cytometry (T lymphocytes [CD3+], their subtypes [CD3+CD4+, CD3+CD8+, CD3+CD4+CD8+, CD3+CD4-CD8-], and B lymphocytes [CD45+CD21+]) and measurement of N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide, cardiac troponin I, and C-reactive protein concentrations were performed. Results The percentage of CD3+CD4+ lymphocytes was significantly lower in stable ACVIM C patients (P = .01) and unstable ACVIM C and D patients (P = .003), the percentage of CD3+CD8+ lymphocytes was significantly higher in stable ACVIM C patients (P = .01) and unstable ACVIM C and D patients (P = .01), CD3+CD8+ lymphocyte concentration was significantly higher in unstable ACVIM C and D patients (P = .05), and the CD3+CD4+/CD3+CD8+ ratio was significantly lower in stable ACVIM C patients (P = .01) and unstable ACVIM C and D patients (P = .01) compared with healthy controls. Conclusions and clinical importance The percentages of CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ PBL and CD4+/CD8+ ratio were altered in MMVD dogs with congestive heart failure (ACVIM C, D), but not in ACVIM B2, suggesting involvement of these PBL subtypes in the pathogenesis of congestive heart failure in dogs with MMVD.

OBJECTIVE To determine the dose of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) needed to achieve at least a 3-fold increase in plasma CoQ10 concentration in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and congestive heart failure (CHF). ANIMALS 18 dogs with CHF due to MMVD and 12 healthy dogs. PROCEDURES In a randomized, double-blinded, controlled trial, dogs with MMVD were given 50 or 100 mg of water-soluble CoQ10 (ubiquinone; total daily dose, 100 mg [n = 5] or 200 mg [6]) or a placebo (7), PO, twice a day for 2 weeks in addition to regular cardiac treatment. Plasma CoQ10 concentration was measured in dogs with MMVD before (baseline) and at various time points after supplementation began and in healthy dogs once. Concentrations were compared among and within groups. RESULTS No significant difference in median baseline plasma CoQ10 concentration was detected between healthy dogs and dogs with MMVD. Fold increases in plasma CoQ10 concentrations ranged from 1.7 to 4.7 and 3.2 to 6.8 for individual dogs in the 100-mg and 200-mg groups, respectively. The change in plasma CoQ10 concentration after supplementation began was significantly higher than in the placebo group at 4 hours and 1 and 2 weeks for dogs in the 200-mg group and at 1 and 2 weeks for dogs in the 100-mg group. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE A daily CoQ10 dose of 200 mg was sufficient to achieve at least a 3-fold increase in plasma CoQ10 concentration and may be used in CoQ10 supplementation studies involving dogs with CHF due to MMVD.

Canicross is a sport discipline that connects human and canine athletes in running. Changes in physiological, hematological, and biochemical parameters, and exercise-induced oxidative stress have not been thoroughly characterized in canicross dogs. The aim of our study was the assessment of the health status of trained canicross dogs that were subjected to two acute bouts of exercise with their owners during the training season. Health status was assessed by measuring the rectal temperature, hematological and biochemical parameters, as well as blood oxidative stress parameters (plasma malondialdehyde, lipid peroxidation marker; whole blood glutathione peroxidase and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase1, antioxidant enzymes) before and during a two-day canicross training session and after a 24-h rest period. Seven trained canicross dogs (three females/four males) aged 12–120 months were included in the study. Blood samples were collected before and immediately after the first acute bout of exercise (day 1), after the second acute bout of exercise (day 2), and after 24 h of rest (day 3). Rectal temperature was measured at the same time as blood sample collection. The majority of hematological and biochemical parameters remained within reference ranges at all sampling times. Rectal temperature was significantly higher after training on days 1 and 2 compared to resting temperature on day 3. Hematological parameters did not change significantly; however, there were significant differences in urea, creatinine, creatine kinase, and triglycerides between specific sampling times. Despite significant changes, these biochemical parameters remained within reference ranges. Significant changes in biochemical parameters seem to reflect the dogs' physiological response to each acute bout of exercise, considering all biochemical parameters and rectal temperature returned to pre-exercise values after a 24-h rest period (day 3). No significant differences in oxidative stress parameters were found between any sampling times. Relatively high erythrocyte superoxide dismutase1 activity at all sampling times may indicate that the canicross dogs are adapted to training by an increased expression of antioxidant enzymes. Based on our results, we can conclude that the trained canicross dogs included in our study were healthy, in good physical condition, and fit for the two acute bouts of field exercise.

Our study aimed to investigate the blood variables: coenzyme Q10, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), electrolytes, cholesterol, triglyceride, glutathione peroxidase, white blood cell, neutrophil, lymphocyte and monocyte counts and relative numbers of neutrophils, lymphocytes and monocytes that may be associated with survival of dogs in congestive heart failure (CHF). Twenty-one client-owned dogs in CHF were included in the study. Cox regression analysis showed significant association only between NT-proBNP blood concentration and survival.

BackgroundInflammation and oxidative stress can contribute to the development and progression of heart failure. This study aimed to investigate the association between inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF). Associations between the disease severity marker N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and markers of inflammation and oxidative stress were also determined.ResultsThirty-seven dogs with cardiovascular diseases (dilated cardiomyopathy, DCM (16 dogs), myxomatous mitral valve disease, MMVD (21 dogs)) and ten healthy dogs were included in this prospective study. The patients were further divided into groups with (26) and without CHF (11). We found a significantly higher serum concentration of C-reactive protein (P = 0.012), white blood cell (P = 0.001), neutrophil (P = 0.001) and monocyte counts (P = 0.001) in patients with CHF compared to control dogs. The concentration of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) was significantly higher in patients with CHF compared to patients without CHF (P = 0.030). No significant difference was found in most of the measured parameters between MMVD and DCM patients, except for glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and NT-proBNP. In patients with CHF, TNF-α correlated positively with malondialdehyde (P = 0.014,r = 0.474) and negatively with GPX (P = 0.026,r = − 0.453), and interleukin-6 correlated negatively with GPX (P = 0.046,r = − 0.412). NT-proBNP correlated positively with malondialdehyde (P = 0.011,r = 0.493). In patients without CHF none of the inflammatory and oxidative stress markers correlated significantly. Furthermore, in the group of all cardiac patients, GPX activity significantly negatively correlated with NT-proBNP (P = 0.050,r = − 0.339) and several markers of inflammation, including TNF-α (P = 0.010,r = − 0.436), interleukin-6 (P = 0.026,r = − 0.382), white blood cell (P = 0.032,r = − 0.369), neutrophil (P = 0.027,r = − 0.379) and monocyte counts (P = 0.024,r = − 0.386).ConclusionInflammatory and oxidative stress markers are linked in canine CHF patients, but not in patients without CHF. These results suggest complex cross communication between the two biological pathways in advanced stages of CHF.

Introduction Canine brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is a conformation-related respiratory disorder of dog breeds having congenitally flattened facial and skull anatomy. The aim of the study was to determine oxidative stress parameters, the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde, and antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase in BOAS patients before and after surgical treatment and in healthy brachycephalic dogs. Material and Methods Nine healthy brachycephalic dogs that had not undergone surgery and 39 BOAS patients were included in the study. The BOAS patients were classified as grade 1 (5/34), grade 2 (16/34), and grade 3 (13/34) based on the decrease in the radius of the airway in the larynx. In BOAS patients, oxidative stress parameters were determined before and two weeks after surgery, while in control dogs, blood samples were collected only on inclusion to the study. Results All BOAS patients showed various degrees of improvement in clinical signs after surgery. Significantly lower (P < 0.05) SOD activity was found in grade 2 and 3 BOAS patients than in grade 1 patients. Two weeks after surgery, a significant (P < 0.05) increase in SOD activity in grade 2 and 3 patients was observed. Conclusion Antioxidant enzyme SOD may play an important role in BOAS and can be used as a biomarker of antioxidant status assessment in BOAS patients.

Background: Antioxidants located in both the hydrophilic and lipophilic compartments of plasma act as a defence system against reactive oxygen species (ROS). . Excessive production of ROS during anaesthesia affects the antioxidant capacity of plasma and may result in oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of lipid- (ACL) and water-soluble (ACW) antioxidants in client-owned dogs diagnosed with periodontal disease and early-stage myxomatous mitral valve degeneration (MMVD) and anaesthetised for a dental procedure with propofol and sevoflurane or with propofol only. Results: Dogs with MMVD were anaesthetised with propofol and sevoflurane (MMVD/PS, n = 8) or with propofol only (MMVD/P, n = 10). Dogs with no evidence of MMVD (PS, n = 12) were anaesthetised with propofol and sevoflurane. Blood samples for determination of ACL and ACW were collected before and 5 minutes, 60 minutes and 6 hours after induction to anaesthesia. In dogs with MMVD and anaesthetised with propofol and sevoflurane, ACL was significantly higher at all sampling times when compared to control dogs. Compared to basal values, only anaesthesia maintained with propofol significantly increased ACL at 60 minutes in dogs with MMVD. In dogs with MMVD and anaesthetised with propofol, ACW increased after induction to anaesthesia and remained elevated up to 6 hours after anaesthesia. Compared to basal values, anaesthesia maintained with sevoflurane significantly increased ACW only at 60 minutes in both dogs with and without MMVD.The only difference between propofol and propofol/sevoflurane anaesthesia in dogs with MMVD was significantly higher ACW at 60 minutes after induction to anaesthesia in the propofol group. Conclusions: Regarding antioxidant capacity, propofol could be a better choice than sevoflurane for anaesthesia of dogs with early-stage MMVD, although further studies are necessary to clarify the advantage of this antioxidant capacity.

Objective To investigate changes in serum cardiac troponin I (cTnI) concentrations in dogs in which medetomidine was used for sedation or for premedication prior to anaesthesia with propofol and sevoflurane. Study design Prospective clinical study. Animals A total of 66 client-owned dogs. Methods The dogs were sedated with medetomidine (0.04 mg kg(-1)) intravenously (IV) (group M; n = 20) and left to breath room air or anaesthetized with propofol (6.5 +/- 0.76 mg kg(-1) IV) and sevoflurane (4.5% vaporizer setting) in oxygen (group P + S; n = 20) or with medetomidine (0.04 mg kg(-1) IV), propofol (1.92 +/- 0.63 mg kg(-1)) and sevoflurane (3% vaporizer setting) in oxygen (group M + P + S; n = 26), respectively. After 35 minutes, medetomidine was antagonized with atipamezole (0.1 mg kg(-1) intramuscularly). Blood samples for serum cTnI determination were taken before sedation or anaesthesia, 6 and 12 hours and 4 days thereafter. Serum cTnI concentrations were measured with the Architect STAT Troponin-I assay. Results Before sedation or anaesthesia, cTnI concentrations were above the detection limit in 22 out of 66 (33%) of dogs. Compared to basal values, cTnI concentrations significantly increased at 6 and 12 hours in all groups and at day 4 in group M. There were no differences in cTnI concentration between groups at baseline, at 6 hours and at 4 days. At 12 hours, cTnI concentrations were significantly higher in groups M and P + S, respectively, compared to group M + P + S. Conclusions and clinical relevance Oxygenation during anaesthesia and reduction of propofol and sevoflurane dose due to the sparing effects of medetomidine might have played a role in alleviation of myocardial hypoxic injury as indicated by the less severe and short-lived increase of cTnI in the M + P + S group. This is the peer-reviewed version of the article: Vasiljević, M.; Krstić, V.; Stanković, S.; Zrimsek, P.; Svete, A. N.; Seliskar, A. Cardiac Troponin I in Dogs Anaesthetized with Propofol and Sevoflurane: The Influence of Medetomidine Premedication and Inspired Oxygen Fraction. Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia 2018, 45 (6), 745–753. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaa.2018.07.003]

We tested the hypothesis that indirect measures of oxidative stress (vitamin E, glutathione peroxidase, and malondialdehyde) differ in dogs in heart failure resulting from either myxomatous mitral valve disease or dilated cardiomyopathy. Dogs were classified according to the International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council (ISACHC) classification. Additionally, the effect of cardiac therapy on oxidative stress parameters and N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in advanced stages of congestive heart failure was investigated. There were no significant differences in oxidative stress parameters between healthy dogs and the individual groups of cardiac patients. Significantly lower malondialdehyde (MDA) was observed in the ISACHC II group in comparison to ISACHC groups III and I. A significant positive correlation in treated patients was observed between NT-proBNP and MDA, NT-proBNP and vitamin E, as well as between MDA and vitamin E (and lipid-standardized vitamin E). No significant differences in any of the measured parameters were found between treated and non-treated cardiac patients. Our results suggest an association between MDA (the extent of lipid peroxidation) and NT-proBNP, vitamin E and NT-proBNP, as well as between MDA and vitamin E in treated canine patients. Plasma vitamin E concentration was maintained in all stages of cardiovascular disease in these canine patients.

OBJECTIVE To determine the plasma total antioxidant capacity, erythrocyte superoxide dismutase activity, whole blood glutathione peroxidase activity, and plasma coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) concentration in dogs with various stages of cardiovascular diseases and in healthy dogs; assess the influence of cardiac treatment on the levels of antioxidant variables, plasma CoQ10 concentration, and serum N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentration, and determine any correlation between the disease severity (NT-proBNP concentration) and antioxidant variables or CoQ10 concentration. ANIMALS 43 dogs with various types and stages of cardiovascular diseases (congenital and acquired) and 29 healthy dogs. PROCEDURES Blood samples were collected from all dogs for spectrophotometric assessment of antioxidant variables. Plasma CoQ10 concentration was determined with a high-performance liquid chromatography–atmospheric pressure chemical ionization–tandem mass spectrometry method. Serum NT-proBNP concentration was measured with an ELISA. RESULTS Values for antioxidant variables did not differ among groups of dogs with cardiovascular diseases, regardless of disease stage or treatment. Plasma CoQ10 concentration was significantly increased in treated dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF), compared with untreated patients. However, plasma CoQ10 concentration did not differ among heart failure classes. A significant, negative correlation between serum NT-proBNP and plasma CoQ10 concentrations was identified in treated CHF-affected dogs, suggesting that low plasma CoQ10 concentration may be associated with increased severity of CHF. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The antioxidant variables evaluated were not altered in dogs with CHF, regardless of cardiac disease stage or treatment. Further investigation into the possible effects of CoQ10 supplementation in dogs with advanced stages of CHF is warranted.

The aim of the current study was to assess the antioxidative effects of the dietary supplementation of olive leaf extract (OLE) in different concentrations compared to those of vitamin E in piglets under conditions of dietary n-3 PUFA-induced oxidative stress. Forty-eight castrated male piglets (10.6 &plusmn, 0.99 kg) were fed the following experimental diets: Cont&minus, (low-fat diet, no supplement), Cont+ (high linseed oil diet, no supplement), Vit-E (as Cont+, 105 IU vitamin E/day), OLE-1 (as Cont+, 3.84 mg hydroxytyrosol equivalents (HEQs)/day), OLE-2 (as Cont+, 38.4 mg HEQ/day), and OLE-3 (as Cont+, 96 mg HEQ/day). After 21 days of feeding, the experimental diets, blood and urine samples were collected to assess the extent of the oxidative stress. Results indicated that diet OLE-1 lowered the activity of gamma-glutamyl transferase, protected DNA (measured as DNA tail %) and altered urinary 8-hydroxy-2&rsquo, deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). Dietary vitamin E lowered the levels of urinary F2-isoprostanes, as well as of plasma malondialdehyde and &gamma, tocopherol, but raised the plasmatic &alpha, tocopherol and altered the level of urinary 8-OHdG. In conclusion, only minor positive effects of dietary OLE on the oxidative stress parameters were observed. Additionally, OLE did not show concentration dependence.

Data on the values of selected blood antioxidant parameters, i.e. total antioxidant capacity, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase in healthy dogs, are lacking. There are no published accepted standard reference methods for their determination. The aim of this study was to determine the values of plasma total antioxidant capacity and the activities of whole blood glutathione peroxidase and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase in 30 healthy client-owned dogs (19 females, 11 males). The effect of age and sex on the measured antioxidant parameters was also investigated. Antioxidant parameters were determined with an automated biochemical analyser, using the commercially available Randox kits. No significant difference in age, weight, and antioxidant parameters was determined between females and males. A significant positive effect of age (p = 0.002, r2 = 0.284) on superoxide dismutase activity was confirmed. There was no effect of sex on any of the antioxidant parameters measured. However, we observed a tendency of the effect of sex (p = 0.063, r2 = 0.118), as well as age (p = 0.073, r2 = 0.111), on the activity of glutathione peroxidase. Our results are in part comparable with the results of other studies in which the same types of methods and samples were used to determine antioxidant parameters. In conclusion, the sex and age of dogs should be taken into consideration when planning a study on antioxidant status parameters.

Background Although human studies have shown that inflammation plays a role in the development of congestive heart failure, scarce information exists on white blood cell count (WBC) and differential cell counts in various stages of heart failure in man and dogs. A few studies demonstrated increased concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), a major acute-phase protein, in cardiac diseases in dogs. Our research aimed to investigate whether CRP concentration, WBC and neutrophil count (NEUT), as markers of systemic inflammation, are elevated in canine cardiovascular patients. We also aimed to find out whether there is an association between CRP concentration and WBC and NEUT, as well as associations between these inflammatory markers and selected echocardiographic parameters. Sixty-two client-owned canine cardiac patients and 12 healthy dogs were included in the study. The patients were classified into International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council classes (ISACHC I–III). The serum CRP concentration was determined using a canine CRP test kit. WBC and NEUT were determined using an automated hematology analyzer. Results Significantly higher serum CRP concentration, WBC and NEUT were found in the decompensated stage of heart failure (ISACHC III) compared with healthy dogs and with patients in ISACHC group II and ISACHC group I. Serum CRP concentration significantly positively correlated with WBC (r = 0.65, P

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) has become one of the most economically important diseases for the swine industry worldwide. The objective of the study was to determine selected blood antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD)), biochemical and haematological parameters in PRRS positive and negative pigs of three different categories, mainly to test oxidative stress hypothesis in pigs naturally infected with PRRS virus. Ninety PRRS positive and 90 PRRS negative pigs were included in the study. The presence of PRRS was confirmed by serological detection of antibodies against PRRS virus (PRRSV) and detection of PRRS viral RNA by RT-PCR. Pigs were further divided into three groups of 30: piglets just before weaning (weaners), fatteners and finishers. Blood samples for determining selected blood parameters were collected from the vena cava cranialis. Significantly (P < 0.05) higher activities of SOD in weaners and fatteners and of GPX in weaners were determined in PRRS positive pigs than in corresponding groups of PRRS negative pigs. In contrast, significantly (P < 0.05) lower GPX activity was observed in finishers of PRRS positive pigs than in the corresponding group of PRRS negative pigs. Concentrations of serum total protein in PRRS positive weaners and fatteners were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those found in PRRS negative pigs. Leukopenia was observed in all three groups of PRRS positive pigs. It has been demonstrated, for the first time, that oxidative stress might be increased in PRRSV naturally infected pigs, especially in weaners.

Cilj ove studije je bio da se utvrde promene u koncentraciji malonil-dialdehida (MDA) u krvnoj plazmi kao i hematoloski i biohemijski profil kod 10 klinicki zdravih americkih kasaca podvrgnutih odabranim testovima opterecenja na terenu. U krvnom serumu je određivan i odnos između koncentracije MDA, krajnjeg produkta glavne lipidne peroksidacije i aktivnosti enzima misica, kreatin kinaze (CK) i aspartat aminotransferaze (AST). Uzorski venske krvi za analize su prikupljani u mirovanju, neposredno po zavrsetku opterecenja a zatim i 24 i 48 sati nakon toga. Neposredno po zavrsetku opterecenja, utvrđene su znacajne promene vecine biohemijskih i hematoloskih parametara i one se mogu smatrati normalnim fizioloskim odgovorom. Vecina ovih parametara se vratila na vrednosti registrovane u mirovanju u roku od 48 sati. Koncentracija MDA u krvnoj plazmi je odmah posle napora bila povecana, ali ovo povecanje nije bilo statisticki znacajno za razliku od vrednosti registrovanih 24 sata posle vežbe. Maksimalna vrednost MDA je registrovana nakon 48 sati. Ovaj oksidativni stres je bio indukovan opterecenjem sto potvrđuje povecan stepen lipidne peroksidacije. Na osnovu brzog pada aktivnosti CK u serumu po zavrsetku opterecenja i odsustvu znacajne korelacije između koncentracije MDA i aktivnosti misicnih enzima u serumu, može se zakljuciti da odabrani testovi opterecenja nisu imali za posledicu trajne alteracije u misicnim celijama i da nisu dovodili do njihovog ostecenja. AB The aim of the present study was to determine changes in plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration and haematological and biochemical profiles in 10 clinically healthy standardbred horses subjected to a selected field exercise test. Correlations between plasma MDA, the main lipid peroxidation end-product, and muscle enzymes: creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were determined in serum samples. Venous blood samples for determination of selected blood parameters were collected, immediately post exercise, and 24 and 48 hours post exercise. Significant changes in most of the biochemical and haematological parameters determined immediately after exercise reflect the normal physiological response of horses to a selected field exercise test. Most of these parameters returned to or close to the stall values within 48 hours. The concentration of plasma MDA increased immediately post exercise, though not significantly; however it increased significantly 24 hours post exercise and reached its highest value 48 hours post exercise. Thus exercise-induced oxidative stress is evidenced by increased lipid peroxidation. From the rapid decline of serum CK activity post exercise and the absence of significant correlations between MDA and serum muscle enzymes, we concluded that the selected field exercise test caused no permanent alteration in muscle cell integrity or muscle damage.

Despite numerous studies on haemorrhagic shock treatment, the choice of fluid and the rate of administration is a subject of controversy. Early haemodynamic effects, neuroendocrine response and renal func - tion following acute sodium load with either hypertonic saline (HS) or Lactated Ringer's (LRS) were investigated in a model of controlled haemorrhagic shock. Six anaesthetized dogs were bled 30% of calculated blood volume, i.e., 27 ml/kg b.w. over 15 min and left untreated for 30 min. Afterward, the dogs were treated with either HS 4 ml/kg b.w. or LRS 81 ml/kg b.w., followed by whole blood. After a resting period of at least 30 days, the dogs underwent a similar second shock experiment, but with the second solution. Haemodynamics, renal effects and neuroendocrine response were studied during shock and at 15, 30, 45 and 60 min after administration of HS or LRS and 30 and 60 min after the addition of whole blood. LRS treatment resulted in significantly higher cardiac filling pressures and cardiac performance indexes than HS but, following whole blood administration, there were no differences between treatments, except that pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was higher in the LRS group. Urinary output and glomerular filtration rate index were restored to normal values by both treatments; however, they were significantly higher in the LRS group until whole blood was administered. LRS and HS restored plasma norepinephrine to baseline values with no difference between the treatments. Both solutions improved haemody - namics and renal function but their effects were short lived and whole blood was required for a favourable outcome, regardless of the initial solution used. In contrast to LRS, HS did not overload the cardiovascular system.

The measurement of serum thromboxane B2 (TXB2) production by platelets is a specific test for assessment of platelet cyclooxygenase (COX-1) activity following administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of sample incubation at 37 °C for one hour on serum TXB2 concentration in comparison with incubation at room temperature. A total of 54 blood samples for serum TXB2 measurements were collected from six healthy beagle dogs into two separate serum tubes. While one group of tubes was incubated in a 37 °C water bath, the second group of tubes was left to coagulate at room temperature, both for one hour. Serum TXB2 concentrations were measured by ELISA. The mean concentration (± SD) of serum TXB2 in the group of samples that were incubated at 37 °C was significantly (P < 0.0001) higher compared to the group of samples incubated at room temperature, 1098 ± 346 μg/l and 550 ± 257 μg/l, respectively. The results of the study provide the information on serum TXB2 concentration in healthy beagle dogs and demonstrate that validated methods for assessment of COX-1 activity by measurement of serum TXB2 should be used in order to make results more reliable and comparable between different studies. The results of this study might be of great help in planning NSAID studies in dogs by providing the information that TXB2 generation by platelets is influenced profoundly by incubation temperature.

The present study was conducted to investigate the antioxidant status in canine cancer patients. Patients with multicentric lymphoma, oral fibrosarcoma, mast cell tumour, malignant melanoma, appendicular osteosarcoma, nasal tumours and peripheral ameloblastoma were selected. Each group consisted of 6 patients. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and enzyme antioxidants: glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured in serum and whole blood, respectively, and were compared to 31 healthy dogs. The results of the study showed a significant increase of CAT activity in tumour groups except in the patients with nasal tumours. SOD activity increased significantly in malignant melanoma, mast cell tumour, multicentric lymphoma and oral fibrosarcoma patients. Appendicular osteosarcoma and multicentric lymphoma patients showed significantly increased levels of GPX and TAC, respectively. Activities of CAT and SOD were significantly higher comparing the all 42 cancer patients with healthy dogs. Tumor patients showed significantly lower levels of haemoglobin when compared to healthy dogs. The increase of antioxidant enzyme activities and TAC in these animals suggest the activation of antioxidant defence mechanisms in different cancer diseases. Further studies involving more animals and other antioxidant parameters and oxidative stress markers are necessary.

The results of few studies on tryptophan supplementation conducted in horses are contradictory and none of these studies have shown that tryptophan is an effective calmative in horses. The objective of the present study was to determine changes in hematological parameters, plasma lactate, serum cortisol and biochemical profile, as well as the behavior of untreated and calmative treated horses under stressful conditions in order to determine the effects of the applied calmative. The study also aims to confirm the importance of a 24 hour rest after work. The same six horses were on duty twice, Trial I and Trial II, under stressful conditions. Blood samples were collected three times, at pretransport, post-stress and resting phase. Horses' behavior was observed carefully by the riders. The study showed that most changes of the hematological and biochemical profiles reflect the response to exercise as horses were physically active while being on duty. The effect of the calmative is mainly reflected by a minor extent of changes of measured parameters, as determined by comparison at individual sampling phases. According to the observations of horses' behavior, we may conclude that the use of calmatives did calm the horses. The study confirmed that horses need at least 24 hours of rest after working.

The objective of the study was to find whether a single intratracheal inoculation with live Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277 influences local and systemic inflammatory and immune responses in mice.Twelve-week-old BALB/c mice were intratracheally inoculated with 2.9 × 109 CFU P. gingivalis ATCC 33277 diluted in 40 μl sterile phosphate buffer (treated group) or with sterile PBS (control group). The animals were sacrificed 2, 6, 24, 72 and 168 h after inoculation. TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6 and total protein concentrations were measured in the serum, lungs and kidneys. Six hours after P. gingivalis inoculation, TNFα concentration was significantly increased in serum (p = 0.02) and kidneys (p = 0.04), but in the lungs TNFα production was enhanced already 2 h (p < 0.0001) after inoculation, reaching the peak after 6 h (p < 0.0001). The IL-1β concentration was also significantly increased in serum after 2 h (p = 0.006), remaining significantly elevated up to 3 days (p ≤ 0.0001) after inoculation. In lungs IL-1β levels were significantly increased 6 and 24 h (p < 0.0001) and in kidneys 24 h (p < 0.0001) and 168 h (p = 0.01) after inoculation. The IL-6 concentration was significantly increased in serum after 72 and 168 h (p < 0.0001). However, IL-6 was significantly increased in lungs after 6 h (p < 0.0001), remaining elevated until 72 h and in kidneys 2 and 6 h (p < 0.0001) after inoculation. Significantly increased total protein concentration was detected in kidneys 6 and 24 h (p < 0.0001) after inoculation. These results suggest that a single intratracheal inoculation with P. gingivalis stimulates the local and systemic inflammatory and immune response, as shown by increased tissue and serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines.

Altered homeostasis of vitamin E has been demonstrated in human atopic dermatitis. Data on plasma and skin vitamin E concentrations in canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) are not available.To determine vitamin E concentrations in plasma and skin of atopic dogs.Vitamin E concentrations in plasma and full-thickness skin biopsies of 15 atopic dogs were related to CAD extent and severity index (CADESI-03) scores and compared to the equivalent concentrations in 17 healthy dogs. Statistically significant differences of measured parameters between the two groups were determined by the nonparametric Mann Whitney U test and correlations between CADESI-03 scores and vitamin E concentrations were evaluated by the Spearman rank test. A value of P0.05 was considered significant.Plasma concentrations of vitamin E were significantly lower in atopic dogs than in healthy dogs, with median values of 29.8 and 52.9 μmol/L, respectively. Skin vitamin E values did not differ significantly between patients and healthy controls. The median concentration of skin vitamin E in atopic dogs was higher than that in healthy dogs. No significant correlations were found between CADESI-03 score and plasma vitamin E or skin vitamin E concentrations.Significantly lower plasma vitamin E concentrations in atopic dogs than in healthy controls indicate altered homeostasis of vitamin E in CAD.Further investigation into vitamin E supplementation in CAD is warranted.

Background Serum selenium concentrations and the activity of plasma glutathione peroxidase (GPx) decrease with the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in human patients. Selenium is considered a limiting factor for plasma GPx synthesis. Plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) is decreased in CKD cats in comparison to healthy cats. Hypothesis Serum selenium concentrations and plasma and erythrocyte GPx activity in cats with CKD are lower than in healthy cats. Serum selenium concentrations, the activity of enzymes, and plasma TAC progressively decrease with the progression of kidney disease according to IRIS (International Renal Interest Society) classification. Animals Twenty-six client-owned cats in IRIS stages I–IV of CKD were compared with 19 client-owned healthy cats. Methods A CBC, serum biochemical profile, urinalysis, plasma and erythrocyte GPx activity, serum selenium concentration, and plasma TAC were measured in each cat. Results Cats in IRIS stage IV CKD had a significantly higher (P = .025) activity of plasma GPx (23.44 ± 6.28 U/mL) than cats in the control group (17.51 ± 3.75 U/mL). There were no significant differences in erythrocyte GPx, serum selenium concentration, and plasma TAC, either among IRIS stages I–IV CKD cats or between CKD cats and healthy cats. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Erythrocyte GPx activity, serum selenium concentration, and plasma TAC do not change in CKD cats compared with healthy cats. Selenium is not a limiting factor in feline CKD. Increased plasma GPx activity in cats with stage IV CKD suggests induction of antioxidant defense mechanisms. Antioxidant defense systems might not be exhausted in CKD in cats.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an essential cofactor in the mitochondrial electron transport pathway, and is also the only known endogenously synthesized lipid-soluble antioxidant. The aim of the present study was to determine, for the first time, endogenous plasma CoQ10 concentration and its correlation with plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and serum total cholesterol (TC) in a population of healthy untrained horses. Thirty-one horses were included in the study. Plasma CoQ10 concentration ranged from 0.380 to 2.090 mg/L, which is in general agreement with plasma CoQ10 concentration in humans. The study demonstrated no significant correlation between plasma CoQ10 and TAC, which indicates that CoQ10 does not contribute to the TAC of equine plasma significantly. In contrast to humans, no significant correlation was found between CoQ10 and TC in investigated horses. The results warrant further studies on CoQ10 supplementation in healthy untrained horses and subsequent determination of correlations between CoQ10 and TAC.

Background The abolition of in-feed antibiotics or chemotherapeutics as growth promoters have stimulated the swine industry to look for alternatives such as organic acids, botanicals, probiotics and tannin. The objective of the present study was to compare the effects of a combination of acids and tannin with diet with organic acids and diet without growth promoters on the growth performance and selected biochemical, haematological and antioxidant enzyme parameters in grower pigs. Tannin is more natural and cheaper but possibly with the same effectiveness as organic acids with regard to growth performance. Methods Thirty-six 7 week old grower pigs, divided into three equal groups, were used in a three week feeding trial. Group I was fed basal diet, group II basal diet with added organic acids and group III basal diet with added organic and inorganic acids and tannin. Pigs were weighed before and after feeding and observed daily. Blood was collected before and after the feeding trial for the determination of selected biochemical, haematological and antioxidant enzyme parameters. One-way ANOVA was used to assess any diet related changes of all the parameters. Paired t-test was used to evaluate changes of blood parameters individually in each group of growers before and after feeding. Results No clinical health problems related to diet were noted during the three week feeding trial. The average daily gain (ADG) and selected blood parameters were not affected by the addition to basal diet of either acids and tannin or of organic acids alone. Selected blood parameters remained within the reference range before and after the feeding trial, with the exception of total serum proteins that were below the lower value of reference range at both times. The significant changes (paired t-test) observed in individual groups before and after the feeding trial are related to the growth of pigs. Conclusion Diet with acids and tannin did not improve the growth performance of grower pigs but had no deleterious effects on selected blood parameters. The possibility of beneficial effects of adding acids and tannin in diets on growth performance over a longer period, however, could not be excluded.

There are no data in the veterinary literature relating to oxidative stress in canine atopic dermatitis (CAD). The study aimed to determine levels of oxidative stress markers, plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), whole blood glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD), in 15 CAD patients and 17 healthy dogs. A correlation between CADESI (Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index) score and MDA was also determined. Significantly higher plasma MDA levels were found in patients than in healthy dogs. The significant, highly positive correlation determined between CADESI score and MDA in the patient group indicates an association between the severity of CAD and the extent of oxidative damage to membrane lipids. There were no significant differences in TAC, GPX and SOD between patients and healthy dogs. Our findings suggest that oxidative stress with increased lipid peroxidation could be involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis in dogs.

Low levels of plasma vitamin E concentrations were found in canine atopic dermatitis (CAD). The present study was aimed at determining the effect of an eight-week vitamin E supplementation on clinical response (Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI-03) scores and pruritus intensity) in dogs with atopic dermatitis. Levels of oxidative stress markers (plasma malondialdehyde and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), blood glutathione peroxidase and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase, plasma and skin vitamin E concentrations) were also determined. Twenty-nine dogs with CAD were included in the study. Fourteen received vitamin E (8.1 IU/kg once daily, orally) and 15 received mineral oil as placebo (orally). All dogs were treated with antihistamine fexofenadine. Levels of oxidative stress markers (with the exception of skin vitamin E), CADESI-03 and pruritus intensity were determined at the beginning, then every two weeks. Skin vitamin E was determined at the beginning and at the end of the treatment. Significantly higher plasma levels of vitamin E and TAC were observed in the vitamin E group than in the placebo group. CADESI-03 scores determined throughout the treatment in the vitamin E group were significantly lower than in the placebo group. The findings of this study support the supplementation of vitamin E in dogs with atopic dermatitis.