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Simple Summary: In this retrospective study, three dogs and three cats were selected from the database of the Chonnam National University Teaching Hospital from February 2017 to June 2019. The inclusion criteria for the selection of patients were as follows: (1) clinical data including age, sex, breed, clinical signs, histology, fine-needle aspiration, or fluid centesis were available and (2) intraluminal CEUS was performed; CEUS findings helped confirm the diagnosis. Each patient underwent physical examination, blood tests, radiography, and conventional ultrasonography. Intraluminal CEUS was performed using contrast agents, including SonoVue, agitated saline, saline, or a combination for GI hydrosonography in two patients and sono-cystourethrography in four patients. GI hydrosonography could assess the anatomic relationship between the mass and gastric lumen after administration of a mixture of 0.1 mL SonoVue and 30 mL/kg water in case 1 and could dilate the colonic lumen to detect the thickened wall using saline infusion in case 2. Upon sono-cystourethrography, communication between the urinary tract and prostatic cyst was clearly visualized in case 3, and narrowing of the urethral lumen secondary to prostatomegaly could be ruled out in case 4 with pyogranulomatous prostitis using agitated saline. The saline or agitated saline is appropriate for filling the lumen and improving the acoustic window for GI hydrosonography. Intraluminal CEUS examinations helped to assess the patency of the lumen, evaluate the extent of luminal dilation, rule out luminal narrowing, determine the presence of a mass within the lumen, and identify rupture sites. Administering intraluminal fluid can improve the acoustic window for the visualization of the lumen and wall layers in the cavitary organs. Microbubbles in ultrasound contrast agents can also be used for intracavitary applications to enhance visualization of the lesion in human patients. However, there was no literature extending the clinical application of intraluminal contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) to patients with naturally occurring diseases in veterinary medicine. This case series aims to describe the detailed application and diagnostic value of intraluminal CEUS in six clinical cases with naturally occurring gastrointestinal (GI) and urinary tract diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultrasound appearance of the udder from buffalo with subclinical mastitis consisted of hypoechoic parenchyma with anechoic gland cistern, alveoli, and lactiferous duct. In the normal mammary gland of buffalo, the udder revealed hyperechoic parenchyma with interspersed anechoic alveoli and lactiferous ducts. Teat of buffalo with subclinical mastitis revealed homogenous hypoechoic features of the three-discrete layer of the parenchyma. The teat in animals without subclinical mastitis showed hyperechoic to hypoechoic features of the teat wall. The mean ± SD echo mean values of the mammary gland and teat with subclinical mastitis were relatively higher than the echo mean values in the mammary gland and teat without subclinical mastitis. Pearson's correlation showed a positive correlation between ultrasound echo mean values of the udder and CMT finding and ultrasound echo mean values of the udder and porta SCC. Also, the study showed a positive correlation between the ultrasound echo mean values of the teat and CMT findings and between the ultrasound echo mean values of the teat and SCC results. The results of the study suggest that ultrasonography can be useful in detecting subclinical mastitis in dairy Murrah buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heart diseases, such as myofiber degeneration, pericarditis, myocarditis, and fibrosis, are common in avian species especially in athletic birds such as raptors. However, due to lack of diagnostic tools, proper treatment and management of such cannot be achieved. Ultrasound B-mode and M-mode imaging was done in 12 (eight female, two males, and two unknown) apparently healthy, captive White-bellied Sea Eagles (Haliaeetus leucogaster) using a 7.5MHz linear scanner. Acoustic window was determined to be between the left coracoids bone and the first rib. Imaging of the full architecture of the heart was difficult due to the presence of the large air sacs. In B-mode, the heart was recognized due to its rhythmic beat. It shows anechoic lumen for atria and ventricles, hyperechoic thick ventricular walls, and hypoechoic thin atrial walls. Systolic and diastolic measurements for both the walls and lumen were determined in M-mode. Structures such as aortic root and mitral valve were also identified in M-mode. M-mode indices were calculated from the ultrasonograms obtained. Overall, the measurements and indices obtained in the study can be used as reference values for the echocardiographic features of White-bellied Sea Eagles and related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty-two crossbreeds (Philippine Carahao x Bulgarian Murrah) of buffalo calves weighing 18-125 kg, with age range of one day to six months, classified according to sex, were examined using an ultrasound machine equipped with a multi-frequency scanner at 3rd to 5th ICS, right parasternal long axis view. Cardiac structures were described using B-mode, measurements were obtained using M-mode echocardiography, and blood flow was measured and characterized using Pulsed-wave Doppler and Color flow Doppler, respectively. The different heart chamber walls and septa appeared as hypoechoic bands while the atria, ventricles, and aorta were visualized as anechoic lumen. There were no significant differences observed in M-mode echocardiographic parameters between sexes. Fractional shortening and ejection were higher in females than in males, but male buffalo calves exhibited higher left ventricular volumes and stroke volume than females. Weak positive correlation was seen between different M-mode indices and body weight of the animals. There was no relationship observed between the age of the animals and the echocardiographic parameters. Left ventricular velocity was measured using Pulsed-wave Doppler. Results showed slightly higher mean values of males (30.1 ± 5.9) than females (29.2 ± 4.7). Color-wave Doppler revealed no abnormalities in the direction and character of blood flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study determined the ultrasound features of some abdominal and genital organs of seven apparently healthy Palawan bearcats (Arctictis binturong whitei, J.A. Allen, 1909) using an ultrasound machine equipped with a multifrequency microconvex scanner. The liver and gallbladder were visualized at the level of the xiphisternum region caudal from the diaphragm. The liver showed hypoechoic parenchyma with distinct hyperechoic capsule while the gallbladder showed hyperechoic wall and anechoic lumen with grainy periphery. The spleen was scanned at the left lateral side of the abdomen and showed homogeneous hypoechoic parenchyma with a distinct hyperechoic capsule. The left and right kidneys were scanned from the left and right flanks of the pelvic area and appeared as rounded, bean-shaped organs with an anechoic to hypoechoic medulla, a hyperechoic sinus and cortex, and a hyperechoic capsule. The oval-shaped urinary bladder appeared as an anechoic lumen enclosed by a hyperechoic wall and was visualized at the pelvic area. In males, the prostate gland located caudal to the urinary bladder exhibited echogenic prostatic parenchyma covered by a hyperechoic capsule. The oval-shaped testes featured a mildly echogenic tunica albuginea and hypoechoic parenchyma. The ultrasound features obtained in this study could be used as reference in assessing disorders and diseases of some abdominal organs of the Palawan bearcat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was performed to determine the ultrasound features of the liver, spleen, kidney, and heart in dogs positive to canine parvoviral enteritis (CPE positive). Twenty-three CPE positive puppies and 14 apparently healthy puppies (CPE negative) with an age of less than one year and a body weight of less than 10 kg were utilized in the study. Two-dimensional ultrasonography was used to identify and evaluate the hepatic, renal, splenic, and echocardiographic structures while M-mode echocardiography was used to measure dimensions of various cardiac structures and calculate cardiac indices. No significant differences were found between the measurements of the CPE positive dogs and the CPE negative dogs. The results suggest that canine parvoviral enteritis does not produce any ultrasonographically visible abnormalities in the left kidney, liver, spleen, and heart of CPE positive dogs showing clinical signs such as bloody diarrhea and vomiting. Hence, ultrasonography of the aforementioned organs is of little value in the establishment of prognosis in dogs with active canine parvoviral enteritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultrasound features and measurements of the heart, liver, spleen, and kidneys of apparently healthy Philippine non-descript dogs were determined according to: sex (15 male and 10 female), age with 15 samples (<3 years old) and 10 samples (>3 years old); and weight with 14 samples (<7 kg) and 11 samples (>7 kg). A Digital Color Doppler Ultrasound System with 7.5 MHz micro-convex scanner was used. The échocardiographie parameters and indices did not show significant difference between age, sex, and bodyweight groups. Right kidney thickness in males was significantly higher than in females. Echo mean values for the liver, spleen, and kidneys did not show significant differences between age, sex, and body weight groups. The ultrasonographic features obtained in the study can be used as references for diagnosis of diseases and disorders in Philippine non-descript dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) is a 70 amino acid long polypeptide hormone involved in metabolic regulation of growth and reproduction in livestock. The present study was conducted to determine the effects of dietary supplementation of activated IGF-I on porcine fetal growth using real-time B-mode ultrasonography. Thirty-seven crossbred pigs were randomly assigned to different treatments composed of basal gestation diets with 0, 0.25, 0.5, and 1 kg/ton activated IGF-I. Feeding trial started from Day 1 post-breeding until farrowing. Dietary supplementation of 1 kg/ton activated IGF-I significantly increased the gestational sac diameter at Day 21, biparietal head diameter at Day 75, and abdominal circumference at Day 100. Sows supplemented with activated IGF-I regardless of inclusion rate had fetuses with high abdominal circumference at Day 75 compared with the control. At birth, average litter weight had an increasing trend with increasing IGF-I concentration. The results obtained in this study demonstrated the potential of activated IGF-I supplementation in increasing fetal growth and consequently, swine production performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasonography has been widely used in domestic animals for reproductive management and for diagnosis of diseases and disorders. In dairy buffaloes, although extensive studies have been conducted on pregnancy diagnosis and fetal monitoring for reproductive management, there are very few reports on the use of diagnostic ultrasound for disease diagnosis. Most of the studies in this species involved diagnosis of diseases and disorders of the lungs, diaphragm, heart, reticulum, omasum, rumen, intestines, liver, uterus, ovaries, mammary gland and teats. Very few investigations have been done on the musculo-skeletal system, the spleen, urinary tract, sensory organs and male reproductive organs. In addition, Doppler echocardiography has not been utilized for diagnosis of cardiovascular disorders. Further investigations on the use of ultrasonography for diagnosis of various diseases and disorders of the buffalo are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fifteen dogs with dirofilariasis, weighing 5.2-25.0 kg with age range of 3-10 years, were examined using echocardiography at right parasternal short axis views, electrocardiography and thoracic radiography. The animals were grouped according to severity of dirofilariasis, based on clinical signs: Class I - asymptomatic (n = 6); Class II - coughing only (n = 5); and Class III - coughing with other signs (n = 4). Right ventricular internal diameter in diastole (RVIDd) was significantly higher (P<0.05) in Classes I and III than Class II. Class III RVIDs was significantly higher than Classes I and II. CrVC/T4 and CrVC/R4 were significantly higher while CdVC/Ao was significantly lower in Class III than the other groups. Class I had dilated RVIDd, enlarged right lateral VHS and bronchial, alveolar and interstitial pulmonary patterns. Class II had atrial fibrillation, APCs, increased S wave amplitude and prolonged QT interval in some dogs. Class III had dilated RVIDd. Right lateral VHS was enlarged, CdVC/Ao was lower while CrVC/T4 and CrVC/R4 was larger in Class III compared to the other classes. The results of the study showed the different diagnostic imaging findings for the severities of dirofilariasis which can help the practitioner in the prognosis and treatment of this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to explore an alternative method of producing analgesia for surgical procedure in goats. Eighteen apparently healthy 1-3 years old female Philippine native goats, weighing 10-20 kg, were divided randomly into three groups with six animals each and subjected to the following: 1) distal paravertebral nerve block (DPNB) using lidocaine hydrochloride; 2) conventional needle acupuncture (CNA) through needling of Acupoints BA04, 31, 22, 26 and 47; and 3) aquapuncture using 2% chili pepper decoction (AQP) to stimulate the same acupoints as in CNA. Exploratory laparotomy was conducted, and analgesia, physiological responses and cortisol level in the animals were determined. Good to excellent surgical analgesia was produced in all six goats of DPNB, five animals in AQP and one animal in CNA. Heart rate, respiratory rate and temperature were within normal levels in all groups, although higher values were observed in CNA and AQP than in DPNB. A higher than normal cortisol value was recorded in all treatment groups perioperatively. The results suggest that aquapuncture using chili pepper decoction can be used as an alternative to distal paravertebral nerve block in producing surgical analgesia for laparotomy in goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to determine the ultrasound features as reference for diagnosis of diseases and disorders, the kidneys, urinary bladders, testes and ovarian follicles of 24 apparently healthy adult red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) were examined using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 5.5 MHz microconvex multifrequency scanner. Ultrasonographic appearance and brightness, expressed as echo mean values, of the organs were obtained for comparison with the animals' biometrics. The left and right prefemoral windows were effectively used for examination of the different organs. The kidneys appeared elliptical and hypoechoic. The different renal structures, however, were difficult to visualize. The urinary bladder appeared elongated with hyperechoic wall and anechoic lumen. Testes were observed to be round and hyperechoic, and the ovarian follicles were hyperechoic with round anechoic centers. No significant variations in organ dimensions and echo mean values for testes and ovarian follicles were found based on turtle size. The data obtained may be used as a reference for normal baseline values of organ dimensions and echogenicity of red-eared slider turtles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to determine whether acupuncture affects post-surgical wound healing rate and gross appearance, twelve apparently healthy 1-3 years old female Philippine native goats, weighing 10-20 kg, were subjected to exploratory laparotomy under distal paravertebral nerve block (DPNB) and aquapuncture using 2% chili pepper decoction (AQP). For AQP, eight acupuncture points were stimulated - Acupoints BA04 (four points), 31, 22, 26 and 47 (single points). The rate of wound healing and gross appearance of wounds were determined during the 14-day observation period. Wound healing rate was similar in both groups throughout the 14-day observation period. Complete wound healing was not observed in any of the animals in DPNB, while in AQP 40% of the animals showed complete wound healing. No differences were observed on the occurrence of inflammation, hyperemia, apposition of wound edges and exudate during the 14-day observation period between groups. Increased hair growth was observed in AQP compared to DPNB. The results of the study suggest that aquapuncture analgesia produces relatively more complete wound healing and hair growth than distal paravertebral nerve block in goats subjected to exploratory laparotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to investigate the feasibility of guava cream as replacement for topical antibiotic for wound healing. Twelve cats were divided into four groups and subjected to different concentrations of guava cream: 0% (antibiotic wound cream group), 1%, 3% and 5% having 3 animals per group. A dorsal midline incision (at the level of T6 to T7, with a length of 2.5 centimeters in full thickness) was made and was left open for second intention healing. A thin layer of cream was applied over the wound every other day starting day 0 until day 20 and an incisional biopsy was done at day 0, 7, and 14. Wound contraction and gross appearance was graded. There was no significant difference (P<0.05) on the effect of wound healing of the different percentages of guava cream compared to the wound cream however, the results of the 3% and 5% guava cream had a faster wound contraction. All treatments of guava cream produced comparable results with the antibiotic wound cream therefore, this study concludes that guava cream can be used as an alternative antiseptic and antibacterial treatment for wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to determine the ultrasound features of the liver, spleen and kidney of the Philippine native horse. Thirty horses (16 male, 14 female) weighing 19.9-344.7 kg, 1 month to 10 years old were used in the study. The horses were divided into three age groups, <1 year old (3 male, 3 female), 1-3 years old (6 male, 5 female) and >3 years old (7 male, 6 female). An ultrasound machine equipped with a 3.5-MHz convex linear array scanner was used for transabdominal ultrasonography of the liver, spleen and right kidney. Echo mean values (EMV) of the different structures of the organs were determined using histogram analysis. The hepatic parenchyma was visualized as homogenously hypoechoic with distinct margins. Portal and hepatic veins were also visualized. The splenic parenchyma was hypoechoic with hyperechoic capsule. The renal capsule, cortex, medulla and pelvis were all easily distinguishable. Significant differences in EMV were observed in the spleen by age and sex (P<0.05). The kidney thickness (male and female) and width (male) was highly associated with body weight. The results obtained in the study can be used as references for diagnosis of hepatic, splenic and renal disorders in Philippine native horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasonographic features of the heart of lactating dairy water buffaloes were described and the relationship between the echocardiographic features and milk production performance was established in this study. Fifty-six, 3-11 year-old Bulgarian Murrah and Philippine carabao x Bulgarian Murrah water buffaloes, weighing 300-450 kg, with milk production of 0.9-9.8 kg/day were examined to determine the B and M-mode ultrasonographic features of the heart. The lactating animals were grouped into high (>5.5 kg, 35 animals) and low (≤5.5 kg, 21 animals) average daily milk yield and were further classified based on state of pregnancy (24) and non-pregnancy (32). An ultrasound machine equipped with a 3.5 MHz convex scanner was used to evaluate the heart. Two-dimensional ultrasonography (B-mode) was used to identify and describe the cardiac structures while M-mode echocardiography was used to measure the cardiac structures. The diameter of the aorta of high milk producing water buffaloes was greater than in low milk producing ones. In high milk producing buffaloes, non-pregnant animals had higher left ventricular internal diameter at diastole, left ventricular diastolic volume and stroke volume than pregnant ones. The echocardiographic values obtained in the study can be useful in evaluating cardiovascular disorders of dairy water buffaloes with varying milk yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fifteen adult female 5-9 years old non-descript dogs were used to determine the ultrasonographic features of experimentally-induced corneal ulcer treated with normal saline solution, tobramycin and autologous serum (Groups A, B and C, respectively) at day 7, 14 and 21. An ultrasound machine equipped with a 7.5 MHz linear array scanner with an aid of a modified stand-off pad was utilized in this study. Upon ultrasound examination, the hyperechoic cornea, iris sphincter, anechoic anterior and posterior chamber were seen. The lens and vitreal chamber and the retina with other choroidal layers which appeared as a mesh of hyperechoic and hypoechoic structures were successfully visualized. Corneal ulceration appeared as hypoechoic with hyperechoic structure. The mean±SD central corneal thickness was 589.87±0.252 μm. Groups B and C had significantly greater decrease in corneal ulcer depth and gap at day 21 than Group A. Echo mean analysis revealed increasing echogenicity as the healing process progressed throughout the observation period and could be attributed to fibroblastic proliferation. The results show that ultrasound can be used to monitor and evaluate the healing of corneal ulcers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twelve adult reticulated pythons diagnosed with granulomatous pneumonia and myocarditis were utilized to examine the ultrasound features of the heart and lungs using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 6.5 MHz linear array scanner. B-mode and M-mode ultrasonograms were obtained and digital analysis was conducted to calculate the echo mean values. Echocardiographic features and echo mean values were determined and compared to data on apparently healthy reticulated pythons. Higher B-mode measurements of the left atrial internal diameter and circumference of pulmonary trunk, left aortic and right aortic arches were obtained. Higher M-mode values for amplitude measurements for left atrium, right atrium, sinus venosus, pulmonary trunk, left aortic artery, right aortic artery, cavum venosum and cavum arteriosum; and base measurements for all cardiac structures were also observed. Increased echo mean values indicated higher echogenicities of all the cardiac structures. Increased echocardiographic measurements were higher indicating pathologic changes. Echocardiography was found useful in detecting cardiac pathologic changes which can be associated with granulomatous pneumonia and myocarditis. Because of reverberations observed in all lung ultrasonograms, the study determined that ultrasonography cannot be used in detecting small lung lesions in cases of mild to moderate pneumonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about the echocardiographic measurements in the Philippine native horse. To establish baseline references for echocardiographic measurements and values for the Philippine native horses, 29 apparently healthy animals, aged one month to 10 years old with body weights ranging from 19.9-344.7 kg were used in the study. The horses were distributed by sex (15 males and 14 females) and by age (< 1 year old - 6 animals, 1-3 years old - 11 animals, and > 3 years old - 12 animals). Using a 3.5 MHz convex scanner, BM-modes of the heart were obtained through right parasternal short axis views at the level of the ventricles, atria and aorta. Echocardiographic parameters were subjected to Student t-test or one-way ANOVA and correlation analysis. Fractional shortening and ejection fraction were observed to be higher in female than in male Philippine native horses. Differences were also observed in several parameters between age groups. High correlations were found between most echocardiographic parameters and body weights in both male and female Philippine native horses. Most echocardiographic parameters in Philippine native horses were affected by age and body weight, indicating that growth and size of the horse were important factors to take into consideration when performing echocardiography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to characterize the ultrasonographic features of the heart in lactating dairy cattle and identify possible relationships between the ultrasonographic features and milk production performance. Sixty-eight 4-13 year-old Holstein-Friesian x Sahiwal crossbred dairy cattle, weighing 400-450 kg, with milk production of 4-20 kg/day were utilized to determine the two-dimensional and M-mode ultrasonographic features of the heart. The animals were grouped by average daily milk production into low producers (<9 kg, 26 animals), medium producers (9-11 kg, 23 animals) and high producers (>11 kg, 19 animals). The heart was examined on the right thorax using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 3.5 MHz convex scanner. The cardiac structures were identified using two-dimensional ultrasonography and measurements were made using M-mode echocardiography. No significant differences were observed between the three groups, except for interventricular septum in diastole which was higher in high milk producers than in low and medium milk producers. The echocardiographic values obtained in the study can be helpful in diagnosing cardiovascular disorders of lactating dairy cattle with different milk production performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to determine the M-mode echocardiographic measurements in pregnant and non-pregnant dairy cattle and identify possible relationships between the echocardiographic measurements and pregnancy status. Ninety-one (91) 2-13 year-old Holstein-Friesian x Sahiwal crossbred dairy cattle, weighing 275-450 kg were utilized in the study. The animals were grouped by status of pregnancy into pregnant (63 animals) and non-pregnant (28 animals). Pregnant animals were further grouped into easy breeders (with 1-2 inseminations/ pregnancy) and repeat breeders (with more than 2 inseminations/ pregnancy). The heart was examined on the right thorax using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 3.5 MHz convex scanner. The cardiac structures were identified using B-mode ultrasonography and measurements were made using M-mode echocardiography. No significant differences were observed between pregnant and non-pregnant animals, except for higher interventricular septum at systole in pregnant compared to non-pregnant animals. No differences were observed between easy breeders and repeat breeders. The results suggest that status of pregnancy does not affect the echocardiographic measurements. The echocardiographic values obtained in the study can be useful in diagnosing cardiovascular disorders of pregnant and non-pregnant crossbred dairy cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twelve reticulated pythons, six males and six females from a wildlife rescue facility, showing clinical signs of pneumonia were utilized in the study for macroscopic and microscopic examinations of the heart and lungs. A clinical scoring system was used to assess the severity of these clinical signs. Tiletamine-zolazepam and magnesium sulfate were used as anesthetic and euthanizing agents, respectively, according to the protocol employed by the institution. Gross examination of the heart showed evidence of hydropericardium and paleness of the atrial muscles. Significant microscopic findings in the heart include granuloma, degenerative cardiomyopathy and chondrocytic hyperplasia. In the lungs, there were cream to white pinpoint to pinhead raised nodules which were widely distributed. Microscopic lesions in the lungs include multiple foci of granulomas in different stages of degeneration and prominent hyperplasia of respiratory epithelia. The gross and microscopic lesions in the heart and lungs confirmed the presence of granulomatous pneumonia and myocarditis in the snakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of administration of nanoliposome encapsulated malunggay (Moringa oleifera) phenolic extract in dogs given cholesterol on body fat and hepatic and renal ultrasonograms was investigated in this study. Six adult male dogs were given cholesterol without (T1) or with non-encapsulated (T2) and nanoliposome encapsulated (T3) malunggay (M. oleifera) phenolic extract. Data on the back fat thickness, body condition score and hepatic and renal ultrasonograms were collected at weeks 0, 1 and 5. Dogs in T3 showed inconsistent changes in the back fat thickness and body condition score. Moreover, T3 dogs exhibited decrease in both hepatic and renal echo mean values. The initial findings suggest that monitoring of the liver and kidney in cases of dyslipidemia or hyperlipidemia should be considered since ultrasonogram results indicate probable development of liver and kidney problems. Further studies are recommended to verify these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasonography was performed using a 6.5 MHz linear array scanner in order to determine the ultrasonographic features of the liver, gallbladder and kidneys of 12 captive reticulated pythons with pneumonia in comparison with macroscopic findings. The organs were examined using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 6.5 MHz scanner and echo mean values were calculated. The liver appeared elongated with a hypoechoic parenchyma and a large anechoic central hepatic vein with a hyperechoic wall. The gallbladder was observed as a large elliptical structure with a hypoechoic wall and an anechoic lumen. The kidneys appeared as hypoechoic granulated, elongated structures with the right kidney located more cranially than the left. No differences were observed between ultrasonographic and gross measurements of the different organs. Histogram analysis showed that there was a distinct increase in the Emean values of all structures, except the kidneys which showed decrease in Emean values. The results suggest that pneumonia causes changes in the echogenicity of the liver, gallbladder and kidneys in reticulated pythons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The macroscopic and microscopic findings in the liver, gallbladder, spleen and kidneys of 12 reticulated pythons with pneumonia were described through gross and histopathological examinations. Gross findings in the liver observed were lesions on the surface (milliary white nodules and adhesions) and within the parenchyma of the organ. The gallbladder had a circumference of 15.71 ± 4.75 cm and length of 6.28 ± 2.01 cm. Gross lesions in the kidneys include congestion, thickened capsule and web-like adhesions. Twenty-five percent of the animals were found to have spleen that was irregularly shaped, oblate-spheroid organs with varying discolorations. Histopathological examination revealed signs of hepatitis, nephritis and nephrosis, splenitis and hyperplasia of the pseudostratified epithelium of the gallbladder. Significant histopathologic findings include presence of visceral larva migrans in the liver and kidneys, granuloma formation, presence of intracytoplasmic eosinophilic round inclusion bodies within the hepatocytes and renal tubule as well as presence of lipid vacuoles and cholesterol crystals in the splenic parenchyma. Macroscopic and microscopic findings suggest that presence of lesions in other organ systems is highly likely in snakes with pneumonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten apparently healthy captive-bred ostriches (Struthio camelus), four adult females, three adult males and three juveniles, were examined to evaluate the ultrasonographic appearance and echo mean values of the kidneys using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 3.5 MHz convex array scanner. The scanner was placed in the mid-dorso-lateral area, between the rib cage and the pelvic area. Only the cranial lobe and the cranial part of the middle lobe of the kidneys were observed. The kidneys appeared as a non-homogeneous structure with hypoechoic and hyperechoic sections surrounded by a thick hyperechoic capsule. There was no distinct junction between the cortex and the medulla. The kidneys of the adult females and juveniles were more visible than those of the adult males. In female and juvenile ostriches, the left kidney was more visible than the right kidney. In juveniles, the left kidney appeared to be wider than the right kidney. In all groups, the cortex had greater echo mean values than the medulla. The transcutaneous lateral approach where the transducer was directed caudodorsally against the flank was shown to be an appropriate acoustic window for examining the cranial lobe and cranial part of the middle lobe of the kidneys of ostriches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight apparently healthy male water monitor lizards (Varanus marmoratus), weighing 0.5-4.8 kg, were examined using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 5.0 MHz linear array scanner to determine the ultrasound appearance, dimensions and echo mean values of the urogenital organs. Based on snout to vent length, the eight animals were equally divided into small (<70 cm) and large (>70 cm) varanids. The kidneys of varanids were observed caudal to each gonad. They were elongated with hypoechoic parenchyma and hypoechoic to hyperechoic interlobular spaces. The testes of all eight males appeared as homogenous and moderately echogenic structures. The hemipenes appeared as anechoic structures with hypoechoic walls. The urinary bladder appeared as an elongated anechoic structure with hypoechoic walls. Significant differences in the length of left and right kidneys, length, width and circumference of left testes, length of hemipenes and length of the urinary bladder across sizes were observed. No differences were observed in the echo mean values of the different organs among small and large varanids. The data obtained in the study could serve as baseline values for evaluation of diseases and disorders of the male urogenital organs in water monitor lizards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twelve two-year-old crossbred cattle (Brahman x Philippine Native) and crossbred water buffalo (Bulgarian Murrah x Philippine Carabao), with ideal body condition scores were used to determine the relationship between backfat thickness (BFT) and ribeye (RE) echogenicity to liver and spleen echogenicities. BFT and RE were examined between the 12th-13th rib of the left side of the animal using a 5.0 MHz linear transducer whereas the liver and spleen were scanned at the right 11th-12th intercostal space (ICS) and left 10th-12th ICS, respectively, using a 3.5 MHz convex transducer. The mean BFT was 1.867 cm for cattle and 1.683 cm for water buffaloes. A strong negative correlation was determined between echo mean values of back fat and spleen in water buffalo, while a weak positive relationship was found between RE and liver and spleen in cattle (P<0.05). No significant association was found between BFT and echo mean values of liver and spleen in cattle and water buffaloes. The results of this study can be used as reference for backfat thickness monitoring for both cattle and water buffalo in the Philippines and also serve as a guide for the features and echogenicities of backfat, ribeye, liver and spleen for both cattle and water buffalo fed with the same ration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eighteen Holstein-Friesian x Sahiwal crossbred lactating cows, 3-8 years old, previously diagnosed with mastitis were used to evaluate the effect of acupuncture on mastitis and milk production. The animals were distributed randomly into one control (non-treated) and two acupuncture treatment groups, conventional white needle acupuncture (CWNA) group and aquapuncture group, with six animals per group. For the acupuncture groups, two acupoints, Bai-Hui and Nyukon were stimulated daily for three consecutive days and repeated after a week for two weeks. The CWNA group was stimulated by thrusting and twirling of filiform needles for one minute at five minute intervals for 20-30 min daily. For the Aquapuncture group, 1 ml of 1% chilli pepper decoction was injected into each acupoint using a hypodermic needle. The observation period lasted for three months. Improvement against mastitis was observed in the Aquapuncture group but not in the CWNA and Control groups. The average daily milk production presented as percentage change in milk production showed that the Control group had the steepest decline while CWNA group had the least decline. The above results suggest that aquapuncture has the potential to decrease incidence of mastitis while both CWNA and aquapuncture have the potential to increase milk production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four apparently healthy female water monitor lizards (Varanus marmoratus), weighing 0.8-3.8 kg, were examined using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 5.0 MHz linear array scanner to determine the ultrasound appearance, dimensions and echo mean values of the urogenital organs. The kidneys of the varanids were observed caudal to the ovarian follicles, appearing as elongated strucutres with hypoechoic parenchyma and hypoechoic to hyperechoic interlobular spaces. The urinary bladder appeared as an elongated anechoic structure with hypoechoic wall. Two out of four female varanids showed ovarian follicles located laterally on both sides within the caudal half of the animal's body. Both pre-vitellogenic and vitellogenic stages were observed. Pre-vitellogenic follicles appeared round and anechoic while vitellogenic follicles appeared hypoechoic to hyperchoic in the ultrasonograms. The vaginal sacs appeared as anechoic tubular structures with hypoechoic walls. Echo mean values correlated well with the echogenicity of the different organs. The results of the study can be used for comparison with the ultrasound features of the diseased urogenital organs in the water monitor lizards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight apparently healthy sexually mature 4-6 years old locally-raised female ostriches were used to determine the ultrasonographic features of the ovarian follicles. Transcutaneous scanning of the featherless ventrolateral part of the left abdomen caudal to the thigh was conducted using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 3.5 MHz convex array scanner. The stage, shape, size and echogenicity of the ovarian follicles were determined. Four types of follicles were observed: a) large follicles (6.4-9.8 cm in diameter); b) small follicles (2.2-5.8 cm in diameter); c) atretic follicles (3.5-5.4 cm in diameter); and d) developing ova (2.1-2.7 cm in diameter). Large follicles appeared as anechoic round to oval structures with anechoic to hypoechoic walls. Small follicles appeared as irregular anechoic structures with hypoechoic walls, which were much smaller than large follicles. Atretic follicles appeared as irregular structures with hypoechoic center and hyperechoic walls while developing ova appeared as oval structures with hyperechoic center and hypoechoic walls. Developing ova had the highest while large follicles had the lowest echo mean values. The data obtained in the study provide baseline parameters for the ultrasound features of the ovarian follicles in apparently healthy locally-raised sexually mature female breeding ostriches which can be used for diagnosis of diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty-three (33) 4-8 years old lactating Bulgarian Murrah buffaloes with 2-4 parities, weighing 450-600 kg, were used to determine the ultrasound features of the spleen, liver and kidney at different stages of lactation: a) early (1-3 months, 12 animals), b) middle (4-6 months, 11 animals); and c) late (7-9 months, 10 animals). The spleen, liver and right kidney were examined using an ultrasound machine equipped with a 3.5 MHz convex-array scanner. Digital analysis of the ultrasonograms from the different organs was performed and histogram echo means were compared. Ultrasonographic features of the spleen and liver showed distinct hyperechoic capsule compared to the hypoechoic parenchyma. The echo mean values of the spleen and liver parenchyma were significantly lowest in late stage of lactation. The renal sinus, cortex and medulla can be distinguished from one another in all lactation phases. Echo mean values for gall bladder lumen were significantly lower in the late stage compared to the early stage of lactation. Thickness of the spleen, liver, kidney and gall bladder wall and gall bladder lumen diameter did not differ significantly among the different stages of lactation. The results of this study can be used to compare the ultrasound features and echogenicity of diseased spleen, liver and kidney in lactating water buffaloes at different stages of lactation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]