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The experiment was designed to study effects of fish meal (FM) replaced diets containing a mixture of meat meal (MM), chicken byproduct meal (CBM), soy protein concentrate (SPC) and corn gluten (CG) on growth performance, feed utilization, biochemical parameters and muscle composition of juvenile red seabream (Pagrus major). A diet formulated to contain 60% FM was considered as the control (CON). Two other diets were designed by reducing FM levels to 40% and 20% with 5% or 10% of each MM, CBM, SPC, and CG to contain 20% or 40% protein source mixture in each diet (named as MX20 and MX40 respectively). Red seabream in juvenile stage was distributed among nine fiberglass tanks having a capacity of 300 L. Average weight of fish was 4.57 g and each tank was added with 40 fish assigning as one of three replicates of diets. Fish were fed till satiation two times a day at 09:00 and 17:00 h for eight weeks. Growth performance of fish fed CON and MX20 diets were significantly higher than those of fish fed MX40 diet. Feed intake of fish in CON group was significantly higher compared to MX40 group. Feed utilization was not significantly affected due to FM replacement with protein sources. Serum lysozyme and superoxide dismutase activities were not significantly different among dietary treatments. Plasma triglyceride level was significantly higher in fish fed CON diet compared to that of MX40 group. Muscle proximate and amino acid compositions were not significantly affected by the dietary treatments. Muscle palmitic acid level was significantly lower in CON group while dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid was significantly higher compared to MX20 and MX40 groups. Therefore, the mixture of MM, CBM, SPC, and CG can be used to reduce FM from red seabream diets to 40% without negative influences on growth performance compared to a diet containing 60% FM. FM level can be further reduced to 20% with the ingredient mixture without compromising feed utilization, innate immunity and muscle quality.

Numerous studies have explored alternative protein sources to fishmeal (FM) to enhance fish diets, yet limited research exists on their effects on maturation. This study assessed the impact of replacing FM with soy protein concentrate (SPC) supplemented with lysine and methionine on growth and gonadal development in olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus). Three diets were tested: a control (Con) diet with 60% FM and two diets replacing FM with 25% (LF1) and 50% (LF2) SPC. Fish were fed to apparent satiation twice daily for 12 months. Growth performance and feed intake were not significantly different between groups. However, the gonadosomatic index varied with diet. Muscle composition and amino acid levels were similar across treatments, though n-3 fatty acids were higher in Con. Spermatogonia was increased, and spermatogenesis was impaired in SPC groups. At 12 months, oocytes in Con diets had absorbed yolk globules, whereas this was absent in SPC groups. Growth-related genes in the brain (growth hormones and insulin-like growth factor) were increased with higher SPC, while follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones decreased. Estrogen receptor α levels were elevated in SPC groups. Vitellogenin gene expression in gonads was highest in Con, while liver expression peaked in LF2. The expression of digestive enzymes, chymotrypsin2, and trypsin2 was highest in LF2, while lipase genes were lower. In summary, up to 50% FM replacement with SPC, with amino acid supplementation, supported growth performance and muscle composition without adverse effects on growth in olive flounder but influenced gonadal development.

The present study constitutes the first attempt to identify low-temperature intestinal probiotics for olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) and analyze their effects on this species at 20 °C, which is its optimum culture temperature. Initially, 291 intestinal bacteria were isolated, and Rummeliibacillus stabekisii PM227 (PM227), Microbacterium oxydans NB29 (NB29), and Microbacterium foliorum BZ24 (BZ24), which successfully passed the characterization tests, were considered for dietary supplementation. The formulated diets, denoted as Pro1, Pro2, and Pro3, contained 1 × 108 CFU/g of PM227, NB29, and BZ24, respectively, whereas the control diet contained no probiotics. Triplicates of 20 fish (10.34 ± 0.26 g) were randomly allocated to the four diet groups and fed one of the diets for 8 weeks. At the end of the trial, Pro2 and Pro3 significantly increased growth and feed utilization parameters compared to the control and Pro1 groups. Only Pro2 and Pro1 improved (p < 0.05) myeloperoxidase activity and the transcription of interleukin (IL)-10 in the fish liver, respectively. Amylase, lipase, and protease activities were increased in the flounder intestine in all three potential probiotics groups, except for amylase in Pro2. Intestinal microbial richness (Chao1 index) and diversity (Shannon index) were higher in Pro2 than in the other diet groups, with some similarities observed between Pro1 and Pro3. A significantly lower relative abundance of Firmicutes and Staphylococcales was found in the intestine of all probiotics-supplemented flounder. Moreover, the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Staphylococcus exhibited the following order among the examined groups: Pro1 > Pro3 > Pro2 > control and control > Pro2 > Pro1 > Pro3, respectively. Therefore, the identified low-temperature potential probiotics increased growth, immunity, digestive enzyme activities, and intestinal microbial populations in olive flounder, demonstrating their value as feed supplements in the flounder industry.

Abstract This study investigated the effects of supplementation of low-temperature probiotics isolated from the intestines of olive flounder on the growth performance, digestibility, and regulation of intestinal microbiota and the expression of genes related to growth, immunity, and apoptosis in olive flounder. Bacteria showing high growth at approximately 15–20 °C, which is the temperature of olive flounder culture, were isolated and confirmed to be Pseudomonas species through 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that the strain has a 6,195,122 bp single circular chromosome and a guanine–cytosine content of 59.9%. In the feeding trial, supplementation with 1 × 108 CFU/g of the isolate strain positively modulated growth performances, digestive enzyme activity, and gut microbiota composition of olive flounder. RT-qPCR for the comparison of growth, immunity, and apoptosis-related gene expression levels showed no significant differences between the groups. Therefore, the isolated host-associated low-temperature probiotics improved the growth performance of olive flounder by causing positive changes in digestive activity and intestinal microbial composition without affecting host gene expression.

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the supplementary effects of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) and sodium butyrate (SB) when a graded level of fish meal (FM) was replaced with soy protein concentrate (SPC) in diets for juvenile red seabream (Pagrus major). A control diet was designed to contain 60% FM (F60). Two other diets were formulated by reducing FM levels to 40% and 20% with SPC (F40 and F20). Six more diets were formulated by adding 0.02% GABA or 0.2% SB to each F60, F40 and F20 diets (F60G, F60S, F40G, F40S, F20G and F20S). Each diet was randomly assigned to a triplicate group of fish (5.52 g/fish) and provided for eight weeks. Final body weight, weight gain and specific growth rate of fish fed F60G, F60S, F40G and F40S diets were comparable and significantly higher (p < 0.05) than other groups. The growth of fish fed SB-containing diets was significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared to fish fed the respective control diets. The feed efficiency and protein efficiency ratios were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the fish fed all diets containing 60% and 40% FM compared to F20 and F20G groups. The F40S diet resulted in the highest feed utilization values. The F20S group exhibited significantly higher (p < 0.05) feed utilization than the F20 and F20G groups. Serum lysozyme activity was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in fish fed the GABA- and SB-containing diets compared to the F20 group. The F60S group exhibited the highest lysozyme activity which was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in the F20 and F40 groups. Therefore, the growth performance, feed utilization and innate immunity of red seabream can be enhanced by dietary supplementation with GABA or SB in low-FM diets containing SPC. The FM level in the juvenile red seabream diet can be reduced to 40% with SPC and GABA or SB while maintaining performance better than a diet containing 60% FM.

A 2-year-old, intact female Pomeranian presented with bilateral forelimb lameness, characterized by the olecranon making contact with the ground. The patient experienced two separate incidents of falling, occurring four and three weeks before admission, respectively. Following each episode, non-weight-bearing lameness was initially observed in the left forelimb, followed by the development of crouch gait. Based on the physical examination, radiographic, and ultrasonographic findings, bilateral triceps brachii tendon disruption was diagnosed. Intraoperatively, excessive granulation tissue at the distal end of the tendon was excised. The footprint region of each triceps brachii tendon was decorticated with a high-speed burr until bleeding was observed. The triceps brachii tendon was reattached to completely cover its footprint on the olecranon using the Krackow suture technique. This method involves anchoring the suture through bone tunnels in the ulna. Trans-articular external skeletal fixation was applied to both forelimbs to immobile and stabilize the elbow joints for nine weeks. Subsequently, the dog gradually increased its walking activities while on a leash over a six-week period. At the three-year follow-up, the patient exhibited improved forelimb function and maintained a normal gait without signs of lameness. Suture-mediated anatomic footprint repair proved useful in this single case and may be an effective surgical alternative for the management of chronic triceps brachii tendon disruption in dogs.

An 8-month-old, 3.4 kg, castrated male Toy Poodle was referred for progressive tetraparesis and respiratory disorder without a history of trauma. Repeated computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with different positions of the neck revealed concurrent atlanto-occipital dislocation (AOD) and atlantoaxial instability (AAI) with spinal cord compression. This case was unique due to its congenital nature and the absence of trauma. The surgical treatment involved precise removal of the C1 vertebra’s ventral articular facet, which was compressing on the spinal cord, attributed to its fixed and malaligned position within the atlantooccipital joint. Following facetectomy, the stabilization of the occipital bone to the C2 vertebra was achieved by screws, wire, and polymethyl methacrylate. Two days after surgery, the dog recovered ambulation and showed gradual improvement in gait, despite mild residual ataxia. Postoperative CT and radiographs showed successful decompression of the spinal cord. The screw loosening was confirmed at 114 days, which was managed successfully by extracting the affected screws. Through the 21-month monitoring period, the dog showed a normal gait with a wide-based stance of the pelvic limbs when standing and experienced no pain. This case represents the first report of concurrent congenital AOD and AAI treated with a ventral surgical approach, contributing new insights to the understanding and management of such complex cranio-cervical junction disorders in veterinary neurosurgery.

The increased global market value of fish meal (FM) and the overfishing of wild fishery resources have boosted efforts to identify protein sources that can be cheaply and reliably supplied as an alternative to FM, which is commonly used as a main protein source in fish diets. Numerous studies over the years have demonstrated that animal by-product meals are the effective alternatives for FM in fish diets. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of substituting FM with various by-product meals of swine-origin in diet on growth, feed utilization, chemical composition, plasma biochemical parameters, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and lysozyme activity of juvenile olive flounder (P. olivaceus). All experimental diets were formulated with five isonitrogenous (56.5%) and isolipidic (10.0%) diets. The control (Con) diet included 65% FM and 12% dehulled soybean meal as the protein sources and 4.2% fish oil as a lipid source. Thirty percent of FM was replaced with plasma powder, heme powder, globin powder, and pork greaves meal, named as the PP, HP, GP, and PM diets, respectively. Three hundred and seventy-five juvenile (9.2 ± 0.01 g; mean ± SD) fish were placed into 15 flow-through tanks with three replicates. Fish were carefully hand-fed to apparent satiation twice a day for 56 days. At the end of the feeding period, weight gain and specific growth rate of fish fed the GP and PM diets were comparable to fish fed the Con diet. Feed consumption of fish fed the PP, GP, and PM diets was comparable to fish fed the Con diet. Feed utilization and condition factor of fish fed the HP diet were the lowest. Plasma biochemical parameters, chemical composition, amino acid profiles, and SOD and lysozyme activity of fish were unaffected by dietary treatments. Thus, GP and PM are the appropriate replacers for FM in the olive flounder diets, wherein 30% FM is substituted by diverse by-product meals of swine-origin.

Lipids in fish diets provide energy and play important roles in immunity and metabolism. Atlantic salmon, a species that migrates from freshwater to seawater, requires high energy, especially during smoltification. Juvenile teleosts have low lipid requirements, and a high dietary lipid content is known to have negative effects on their growth and digestion. Therefore, this study evaluated the effect of two commercial rainbow trout feeds (low-lipid, 13.41% and 14.6%) on the growth and immune responses of early parr-stage Atlantic salmon compared to commercial salmon feed (high-lipid, 29.52%). Atlantic salmon parr (weight: 14.56 ± 2.1 g; length: 11.23 ± 0.44 cm) were randomly divided into three groups and fed either one of two commercial rainbow trout feeds (RTF1 and RTF2) or the commercial salmon feed (ASF) for 12 weeks. At the end of the feeding trial, growth, haematology, histology and gene expression analyses were performed. There were no significant differences in weight gain rates or feed efficiency between the groups (p > 0.05). Superoxidate dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, lysozyme and immunoglobulin M activities were not different among the experimental groups (p > 0.05). A histological examination of the liver and intestinal tissues showed no pathological symptoms of inflammatory response or lipid accumulation in any of the groups. In an intestinal transcriptome analysis using RNA-seq, the expression levels of several genes linked to lipids, immune-related proteins, cytokines and chemokines did not differ significantly between the groups (p > 0.05). Commercial rainbow trout feed with low lipid content has no clear negative impact on the development of Atlantic salmon during the early parr stage (14.5 to 39.6 g). This study provides basic information for the development of economical feed for early parr-stage Atlantic salmon.

Sinus venosus atrial septal defects (SVASDs), concurrent with partial anomalous pulmonary venous connections (PAPVCs), are a rare congenital heart disease in dogs. Surgical correction is essential when clinical signs or significant hemodynamic changes are present. We aimed to report on the successful surgical correction of an SVASD with PAPVCs, using a computed tomography (CT)-based customized 3D cardiac model. A 10-month-old male poodle was referred for corrective surgery for an ASD. Echocardiography confirmed a hemodynamically significant left-to-right shunting flow through an interatrial septal defect and severe right-sided heart volume overload. For a comprehensive diagnosis, a CT scan was performed, which confirmed an SVASD with PAPVCs. A customized 3D cardiac model was used for preoperative decision-making and surgical rehearsal. The defect was repaired using an autologous pericardial patch under a cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Temporary pacing was applied for sinus bradycardia and third-degree atrioventricular block. The patient recovered from the anesthesia without further complications. The pacemaker was removed during hospitalization and the patient was discharged without complications 2 weeks post-surgery. At the three-month follow-up, there was no shunting flow in the interatrial septum and the right-sided volume overload had been resolved. The cardiac medications were discontinued, and there were no complications. This report indicates the validity of surgical correction under CPB for an SVASD with PAPVCs, and the advantages of utilizing a CT-based 3D cardiac model for preoperative planning to increase the surgical success rate.

Sargassum horneri is an abundant seaweed causing golden tides on the southwestern coast of South Korea. Undaria pinnatifida is an edible and expensive seaweed conventionally used in abalone diets. The study was conducted to evaluate Sargassum horneri as a substitute for U. pinnatifida in high plant protein diets for juvenile Pacific abalone (Haliotis discus). Dried and ground U. pinnatifida and S. horneri were used for the experiment. Diets were formulated to contain 100 g kg-1 fish meal and 300 g kg-1 seaweed meal. Control diet (SA0) was prepared including 300 g kg-1 U. pinnatifida meal. Three other diets were designed to contain 100, 200, and 300 g kg-1 S. horneri (SA10, SA20, and SA30) by replacing U. pinnatifida meal from control. Triplicate groups of abalones stored in fifteen plastic baskets were hand-fed one of four experimental diets or dried U. pinnatifida once every other day for 16 weeks. Growth performance of abalone fed SA10 and SA20 diets were comparable to SA0 and U. pinnatifida groups. Hemolymph non-specific immune parameters were significantly higher in SA20 group compared to SA0 and U. pinnatifida groups (p ˂ 0.05). Moisture and lipid levels in edible portions of abalone fed S. horneri diets were significantly higher than in control (p ˂ 0.05). Water stability was higher in SA0 diet and gradually decreased with the increase of S. horneri meal in diets. After air exposure, abalone fed S. horneri diets exhibited higher survival than SA0 and U. pinnatifida groups. Therefore, S. horneri can be used to replace U. pinnatifida from abalone diets. The proper combination of U. pinnatifida and S. horneri meal in abalone diet containing a low level of FM appears to be approximately 100 and 200 g kg-1.

The experiment was conducted to evaluate alternative protein ingredients in a low-fish meal (FM) diet for red seabream (Pagrus major). Twelve experimental diets were formulated. Control diet (CON) was designed to contain 60% FM. Other experimental diets were formulated by replacing 50% of FM from the CON with soy protein concentrate (SPC), corn gluten (CG), meat meal (MM), and/or chicken byproduct meal (CBM). Four diets were designed including one of SPC, CG, MM, or CBM as FM replacer and designated as SPC, CG, MM, and CBM. Six other diets were formulated by adding two ingredients as SPC and CG, SPC and MM, SPC and CBM, CG and MM, CG and CBM, or MM and CBM, and designated as SCG, SMM, SCM, CMM, CCM, and MCM, respectively. The 12th diet (MIX) was formulated by including SPC, CGM, MM, and CBM. Triplicate fish groups (50.2 ± 0.1 g) were hand-fed for 12 weeks. Weight gain (WG) of fish was significantly improved by MM and MCM diets compared to CG, SCG, CMM, and CCM diets. WG of CON, SPC, CM, SMM, SCM, and MIX groups were comparable with MM and MCM groups. The lowest WG was observed in CG and CMM groups. Feed efficiency (FE) was significantly higher in MM group compared to SPC, CG, SGC, and CMC groups. FE of MCM group was significantly higher than CG and SCG groups. Fillet linolenic acid (C18:2n–6) level in CG group was significantly higher than CON, MM, CM, SCM, CCM, and MCM groups. Serum lysozyme activity was significantly higher in MCM and MIX groups. Therefore, a high level of dietary CG reduces the growth performance and feed utilization of red seabream. A mixture of MM and CBM seems to be more efficient in replacing FM from red seabream diet.

Cor triatriatum dexter (CTD) is an uncommon congenital cardiac anomaly in dogs. This case report describes successful membranectomy for CTD via partial venous inflow occlusion under mild hypothermia in a dog. A 7-month-old intact male mixed-breed dog weighing 20.5 kg presented with a history of abdominal distention, lethargy, and anorexia. Clinical examination, radiography, echocardiography, microbubble testing, and computed tomography revealed a remnant right atrium membrane obscuring the venous blood inflow from the vena cava. Considering the potential risk of re-stenosis following interventional treatment, curative resection involving surgical membranectomy via venous inflow occlusion was performed. By performing partial venous inflow occlusion under mild hypothermia (34.5 °C), sufficient time was obtained to explore the defect and resect the remnant membrane. The dog recovered without any complications, and the clinical signs were relieved. This case illustrates that partial venous inflow occlusion under mild hypothermia is feasible for achieving curative resection of cor triatriatum dexter in dogs.

A 12-week feeding trial was designed to evaluate the potential of mealworm, Tenebrio molitor, meal (MW) as a locally available unconventional alternative source of protein for fish meal (FM) in a practical diet for juvenile black porgy. Five hundred twenty-five healthy fish (initial weight; 6.43 ± 0.00 g) were randomly distributed into five dietary groups in triplicate (35 fish per tank) and each group was hand-fed with one of the experimental diets containing graded level of a MW replacing 0%, 15%, 30%, 45%, and 60% of FM protein designated as MW0, MW15, MW30, MW45, and MW60, respectively. Although replacing 60% of dietary FM protein resulted in lower daily feed intake, juvenile porgies fed the highest level of dietary MW (MW60) still performed as well as control group (MW0). A significant negative trend was detected between fillet lipid content and increasing inclusion levels of MW in the diets. There was a notable reduction in the n-3 highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) in the fillets of fish fed the MW containing diets, which became more prominent with greater levels of dietary FM replacement. Serum lysozyme activity improved with increasing inclusion levels of MW in the diet. Furthermore, expression of the antioxidant enzyme-related genes including glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) were markedly upregulated in liver of the fish fed diets replacing FM with MW when compared to fish fed the MW0 diet. Overall, the efficacy of MW as a promising alternative dietary protein source for juvenile black porgy has been proved not only in relation to weight gain and efficiency of feed utilization, but also the view point of health-promoting effects in fish.

Surgical ligation of a patent ductus arteriosus is regarded as a standard treatment approach with a low complication rate if performed by experienced surgeons, and it has been performed successfully for decades in dogs. However, there are no reports describing the clinical symptoms related to granulomatous inflammation after the surgical ligation of the patent ductus arteriosus. This report describes the clinical symptoms caused by granulomatous inflammation and subacute pericarditis in a dog that had undergone the surgical closure of a patent ductus arteriosus 2 years previously. Exploratory thoracotomy was performed for subtotal pericardiectomy, and a biopsy was performed to obtain specimens for histopathological examination and culture tests. The clinical symptoms were relieved after surgery. The persistent leukocytosis improved with steroid administration. This case illustrates that the granulomatous inflammatory response associated with silk suture granuloma is a rare postoperative complication of ductal ligation. In such cases, pericardiectomy can help relieve the clinical symptoms.

An 8-week feeding trial was designed to evaluate the potential of mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) as a locally available unconventional source of protein in a practical diet for olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus). Three hundred juveniles (initial weight, 33.5 ± 0.01 g) were randomly distributed into five dietary groups in triplicate (20 fish per tank), and each group was hand-fed one of the experimental diets containing a graded level of a mealworm meal (MW) replacing 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 % of fish meal (FM) protein (designated as MW0, MW20, MW40, MW60, and MW80). The specific growth rates of juvenile flounders revealed a decreasing trend with increasing dietary MW levels. However, feed utilization efficiency tended to improve with the increasing percentage of dietary FM replacement up to 40 % but gradually decreased in higher replacement levels. The results displayed a linear and quadratic negative effect of dietary MW inclusion level on nutrient digestibility. A significant negative linear trend was detected between dietary MW content and plasma total cholesterol. Except for lipid content, which displayed a significant decreasing trend as the dietary MW content increased, no other changes were evident in the fillet proximate composition. Significant positive linear and quadratic trends were observed between fillet C18:1n-9 (oleic acid; OA) and C18:2n-6 (linoleic acid; LA) levels and dietary MW content, where the OA and LA values increased in a dose-dependent manner. The fillet Σn3 / Σn6 ratio and atherogenic index demonstrated significant decreasing trends with dietary inclusion of MW while the fillet thrombogenic index and hypocholesterolaemic/hypercholesterolaemic fatty acid ratio exhibited significant positive trends with increasing values. Myeloperoxidase activity declined with replacement of up to 40 % FM protein but thereafter gradually increased at higher replacement levels. Glutathione peroxidase activity generally was enhanced with increasing dietary MW inclusion. Dietary MW inclusion had no significant impact on the bacterial community of the juvenile flounder’s hindgut. Although replacing up to 80 % of FM with MW may promote an immunostimulatory effect, in order to avoid unfavorable effects on feed efficiency and nutritional value of the fillet lipid fraction no more than 40 % of FM is recommended to be replaced by a MW in diets for olive flounder juveniles. Our findings could promote the utilization of MW in olive flounder feed, which may not only reduce dependence on high priced and finite feed ingredients, but also enhance farmed fish health status.

Tumors of sweat glands usually originate from apocrine glands and can develop throughout the body but are rare in dogs. This report describes the retroperitoneal metastasis of primary cutaneous apocrine adenocarcinoma. An 8-year-old, spayed female beagle dog, weighing 11.7 kg, presented with a history of anorexia, hypodynamia, and weight loss. Clinical examination, radiography, ultrasonography, and computed tomography revealed a skin mass on the dorsum of the right metatarsal region, an enlarged ipsilateral popliteal lymph node, and a retroperitoneal mass. Fine-needle aspiration cytology of the popliteal lymph node suggested metastasis of an apocrine sweat gland tumor. Surgical excision of the skin mass, popliteal lymph node, and retroperitoneal mass was performed. The retroperitoneal mass was diagnosed as a metastasis of primary cutaneous apocrine adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the tumor cells were positive for cytokeratin 7 but negative for cytokeratin 20 and S100 proteins. There were no postoperative complications, except for temporary hindlimb edema, including local recurrence or metastasis, in the 6-month postoperative follow-up period. This case illustrates that although malignant apocrine gland tumors are rare in dogs, a wide resection of primary cutaneous apocrine gland adenocarcinomas is recommended because of the risk of local invasion or distant metastasis.

The objective of this study was to review clinical trials of pharmacopuncture treatment for Frozen Shoulder and to evaluate trends in this field. The literature search was performed using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and 5 Korean electronic databases. A combination of “pharmacopuncture,” “acupoint injection,” “Frozen Shoulder,” “adhesive capsulitis,” and “periarthritis of shoulder” search terms were used. A total of 9 studies were included in this review. The studies were classified into herbal extract-based (5 types) and animal-based (2 types) pharmacopuncture treatment of Frozen Shoulder. There were 14 different acupoints and Ashi points used in the 9 studies. The total volume of herbal extract-based pharmacopuncture injected was usually between 2 mL and 4 mL, and for animal-based pharmacopuncture it was 1 ml. In most studies of Frozen Shoulder, pain was reduced and function was significantly improved after pharmacopuncture treatment. These results demonstrate that pharmacopuncture alleviates pain and restores function in patients with Frozen Shoulder. Further studies must be conducted on pharmacopuncture for management of Frozen Shoulder.

Background: Unfractionated heparin is commonly used for anticoagulation in extracorporeal membrane oxy-genation (ECMO). Several studies have shown that nafamostat mesilate (NM) has comparable clinical out-comes to unfractionated heparin. This study compared anticoagulation with NM and heparin in a large-animal model. Methods: Beagle dogs (n=8; weight, 6.5-9 kg) were placed on venovenous ECMO. Blood samples were taken every hour and the following parameters were compared: hemoglobin level, activated partial thrombo-plastin time (aPTT), thromboelastography (TEG) data, platelet function, and inflammatory cytokine levels. Results: In both groups, the aPTT was longer than the baseline value. Although the aPTT in the NM group was shorter than in the heparin group, the TEG parameters were similar between the 2 groups. Hemoglobin levels decreased in both groups, but the decrease was less with NM than with heparin (p=0.049). Interleukin (IL)-1β levels significantly decreased in the NM group (p=0.01), but there was no difference in the levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha or IL-10 between the 2 groups. Conclusion: NM showed a similar anticoagulant effect to that of unfractionated heparin, with fewer bleeding complications. NM also had anti-inflammatory properties during ECMO. Based on this preclinical study, NM may be a good alternative candidate for anti-coagulation in ECMO.

Symphyseal distraction osteotomy (SDO) with a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) spacer is an effective surgical treatment for cats with pelvic stenosis. This study reports the successful treatment of urethral obstruction due to ischiocavernosus muscle (IM) tension after SDO with a PMMA spacer. A 2-year-old castrated male Korean domestic shorthair feline had megacolon and pelvic canal stenosis. The ratio of the maximal diameter of the colon to the L5 length and the pelvic canal diameter ratio were 1.6 and 0.45, respectively. Pelvic SDO was performed with a PMMA spacer, leading to pelvic canal enlargement (pelvic canal diameter ratio: 0.73). Two days after surgery, dysuria was identified immediately after removing the preoperatively placed urinary catheter. Complete blood counts and serum biochemical profiles were within the reference intervals, and a positive contrast retrograde urethrogram confirmed urethral obstruction at the level of the membranous–pelvic urethra region. Increased tension of the IM leading to a narrowed urethra was suspected as the cause of urethral obstruction. After IM release at the level of origin on the ischium, the patient had an uneventful recovery with spontaneous urination. Muscle release resulted in excellent functional restoration, with no intraoperative or postoperative complications reported during the 12-month long-term follow-up. Therefore, SDO with IM release could be a feasible therapeutic option for severe pelvic stenosis without complications, such as urethral obstruction, in cats.

Background Hominis placenta (HP) is used in Korean medicine to tonify qi and blood, and enrich yin and tonify yang. HP has been reported to have therapeutic effects. Methods A survey of international and Korean electronic databases was conducted using the search terms “hominis placenta pharmacopuncture” and “hominis placenta extract”. The search was limited to material published up to May 31, 2017. Results A total of 83 studies were included in this systematic review: 50 were clinical studies, 25 were basic studies, and 8 were other types of study. Among clinical studies, the most frequently treated disease groups were musculoskeletal diseases and nervous system diseases. In vitro studies were conducted mainly on anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-cell necrosis models. Most of the in vivo studies were performed in rheumatoid arthritis or diabetic complications models. Conclusions HP pharmacopuncture has effects in the treatment of various diseases. Further large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to improve the level of evidence for HP pharmacopuncture. It would be helpful if future in vitro and in vivo studies could identify the mechanism of action of HP pharmacopuncture.

A 5-year-old, 28 kg castrated male Border Collie was referred for surgical intervention following complications from a prior total hip replacement. A physical examination revealed reduced weight-bearing and metallic crepitus on the affected limb. A radiographic assessment confirmed a fractured femoral stem. Extended trochanteric osteotomy (ETO) was performed to extract the well-fixed stem, followed by the removal of the acetabular cup. ETO stabilization was achieved with cerclage wires and a locking plate. Six months postoperatively, the radiographs indicated successful bone healing, and the dog exhibited improved limb function. The ETO technique can provide enhanced surgical access to extract well-fixed implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Importance: Developing clinical skills is an essential element of veterinary education to ensure the competency of veterinary graduates. Although the Korean Veterinary Education Graduation Competencies were established in 2016, reflecting domestic needs and international trends in competency-based veterinary education, they have yet to be implemented in Korean veterinary education. Objective: This study aimed to establish the basic veterinary clinical skills required to ensure graduates of Korean veterinary universities have the day-one competency to independently perform their professional duties. Methods: The Education Committee of the Korean Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges, composed of veterinary school professors and an experienced veterinarian in the clinic, reviewed domestic and international veterinary education-related materials to define basic clinical skills. Results: The Korean Veterinarian Entrustable Professional Activities (KVEPA) was introduced, followed by the subsequent development of 54 essential clinical skills based on the KVEPA. Conclusions and Relevance: The veterinary basic clinical skills established through this study can be used as a specific guide for clinical education in Korean veterinary school, and is expected to play an important role in meeting the needs of the educational sector of the veterinary education accreditation standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Autologous pericardial tissues are utilized in veterinary cardiovascular surgeries due to their accessibility and effectiveness. To enhance handling and biomechanical properties, glutaraldehyde (GA) fixation is applied. However, GA fixation can induce calcification, leading to tissue failure. This study aimed to establish an optimal rapid anti-calcification protocol by integrating ethanol treatment with the proven effective GA concentration and fixation time, facilitating application from collection to utilization. Pericardia were fixed with 0.625% GA for 20 min and subjected to ethanol treatment for 0 (group A, control), 20 (group B), and 30 minutes (group C). The treated tissues underwent mechanical test and were implanted subcutaneously in 3-week-old male rats for 7 weeks before extraction, followed by calcium analysis and histological examination via hematoxylin and eosin staining. No significant differences in mechanical properties were observed among the groups. The ethanol-treated groups (groups B and C; p < 0.05) exhibited significantly lower calcium levels than control (group A). Microscopy confirmed collagen and elastic fibers preservation, without significant immune cell variance. However, higher fibrocyte presence was noted in the ethanol-treated groups. This study presents a rapid anti-calcification protocol combining ethanol treatment with optimal GA fixation, suitable for direct surgical use of autologous tissues. Further research is necessary for long-term efficacy evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two intact male dogs were evaluated for symptoms, including hematuria, prostatomegaly, anuria, lethargy, and abdominal mass. Presurgical evaluations, including complete physical examinations, blood examinations, abdominal radiography with contrast (only in Case 2), ultrasonography, and computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (only in Case 1), were performed. A paraprostatic cyst was diagnosed initially, and laparoscopic exploration and surgery were performed. Complete resection was performed in case 1, whereas partial resection with omentalization was performed in case 2. Histopathological examination of the tissue samples confirmed the presence of paraprostatic pseudocysts in both cases, with no evidence of an epithelial lining. These two cases represent the first documented instances of laparoscopic treatment for extraparenchymal prostatic cysts. The laparoscopic treatment proved feasible even in the case of a giant cyst causing anuria (Case 2). Paraprostatic cysts should be considered a potential differential diagnosis for abnormal urination accompanied by an abdominal mass, and long-term postoperative follow-up is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Achilles tendon is composed of dense connective tissue and is one of the largest tendons in the body. In veterinary medicine, acute ruptures are associated with impact injury or sharp trauma. Healing of the ruptured tendon is challenging because of poor blood and nerve supply as well as the residual cell population. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains numerous bioactive agents and growth factors and has been utilized to promote healing in bone, soft tissue, and tendons. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the healing effect of PRP injected into the surrounding fascia of the Achilles tendon after allograft in rabbits. Methods: Donor rabbits (n = 8) were anesthetized and 16 lateral gastrocnemius tendons were fully transected bilaterally. Transected tendons were decellularized and stored at -80°C prior to allograft. The allograft was placed on the partially transected medial gastrocnemius tendon in the left hindlimb of 16 rabbits. The allograft PRP group (n = 8) had 0.3 mL of PRP administered in the tendon and the allograft control group (n = 8) did not receive any treatment. After 8 weeks, rabbits were euthanatized and allograft tendons were transected for macroscopic, biomechanical, and histological assessment. Results: The allograft PRP group exhibited superior macroscopic assessment scores, greater tensile strength, and a histologically enhanced healing process compared to those in the allograft control group. Conclusions: Our results suggest administration of PRP on an allograft tendon has a positive effect on the healing process in a ruptured Achilles tendon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was performed to assess the antiapoptotic effect of canine platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treated on the canine adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (cMSCs) under cold ischemic conditions. The effect of preventing apoptosis of cMSCs was evaluated in the apoptotic condition induced by cold ischemic injury in vitro. To determine the progression of apoptosis, the changes in cell nucleus were observed using 4’,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) fluorescence staining. In addition, we examined the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and caspase-3 activity. When the cold hypoxic injury was applied to cMSCs, the apoptotic change was observed by DAPI staining, mitochondrial staining for MMP, and caspase-3 assay. PRP significantly decreased the number of apoptotic cells. Nuclear shrinkage and fragmentation of apoptotic cells in control groups were observed by DAPI staining. The MMP was recovered by the treatment of PRP. In addition, when the luminescence intensity was measured for caspase-3 activity, the value was significantly higher in the PRP treated groups than the control groups. The results of this study showed that the PRP may have a beneficial effect on apoptosis induced by cold ischemic injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Veterinary Journal / Revue Vétérinaire Canadienne is the property of Canadian Veterinary Medical Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)