Search

ObjectiveTo characterize the correlation, agreement and concordance of cardiac output (CO) measured with transthoracic ultrasound and the correlation and concordance of aortic blood flow (ABF) minute distance (MD) measured by transesophageal Doppler with CO measured by pulmonary artery thermodilution (PATD) in cats.Study designExperimental study.AnimalsA group of six healthy male neutered cats, aged 2-8 years and weighing 5.3 ± 0.3 kg.MethodsCats were anesthetized with isoflurane in oxygen. CO was measured by PATD (COPATD) and transthoracic echocardiography (COECHO). ABF MD was measured using an esophageal Doppler flow probe aligned with descending ABF. All measurements were made under three conditions: dexmedetomidine (20 μg kg-1) intravenously; atipamezole (200 μg kg-1) intramuscularly and atropine (20 μg kg-1) intravenously as needed to achieve a minimum heart rate of 140 beats minute-1; and dopamine (20 μg kg-1 minute-1) intravenously in that order. Correlation between COPATD and COECHO, and COPATD and Doppler MD was evaluated using repeated measures correlation. Agreement between COPATD and COECHO was evaluated using Bland-Altman method. Differences between consecutive pairs of CO measurements were calculated for concordance analysis.ResultsCorrelation between COPATD and COECHO and between COPATD and MD was significant (p < 0.001), with correlation coefficients greater than 0.92. A bias of > 27% and upper limits of agreement of 66% were found between COPATD and COECHO. Concordance rate with COPATD was 76-80% for COECHO and 72% for MD.Conclusions and clinical relevanceEchocardiographic methods for the measurement of CO showed poor agreement and concordance with PATD. MD showed poor concordance with PATD. As such, these methods cannot be used as an alternative to PATD nor can they appropriately track changes in CO in anesthetized cats.

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate in a randomized, triple-masked, placebo-controlled trial, outcomes for kittens with ocular manifestations of infectious upper respiratory disease (IURD) treated with an ophthalmic and oral antibiotic only vs those also treated with famciclovir.MethodsKittens were stratified into three age (1 to

Pre-determined anatomical locations in the oral cavity were biopsied, and their histomorphology was characterised using haematoxylin and eosin staining (H&E). The most abundant cell type was of dendritic morphology. Lymphocyte foci were not evident in the palatoglossal folds or the gingiva. Immunohistochemical staining (IHC) for validated leukocyte markers followed, including CD3, CD20, CD79α, CD204, and Iba1. Consistent with H&E findings, CD204 immunoreactivity predominated amongst all niches. With the exception of the alveolar mucosa and palatoglossal folds, we also demonstrate a significant difference in the population of macrophages by region for only the Iba1 antigen (p

ObjectiveTo describe percentage length changes in the femur after total hip replacement (THR) performed before skeletal maturity.Study designRetrospective study.AnimalsTwenty-four dogs younger than 8.5 months which underwent unilateral THR and had radiographic follow up.MethodsPreoperative and follow-up radiographs were reviewed. Radiographic measurements included the length of the greater trochanter, femoral diaphysis and distal epiphysis, width of the femur 10 mm distal to the distal aspect of the greater trochanter, width of the femur at 50%, and femoral condylar offset. Percentage changes in length over time were compared among operated and contralateral femurs used as controls. Measurements were collected in triplicate in 10 dogs to evaluate consistency.ResultsAll repeated measurements had excellent consistency. The percentage increase in length of the greater trochanter was smaller in operated femurs than controls (mean difference: -11.5%, p = .017), but no differences were observed for the femoral diaphysis and distal epiphysis (-1.0%, p = .595), or the femur overall (-2.3%, p = .232). The percentage increase in femoral cortical width was greater in operated femurs than controls, both 10 mm distal to the greater trochanter (4.6% difference, p = .037) and at 50% length (8.5% difference, p = .030).ConclusionIn growing dogs, cementless THR decreased trochanteric growth by approximately 10% but did not change diaphyseal growth and femoral growth.Clinical significanceCementless THR performed in skeletally immature dogs with severe hip problems did not impact femoral length in a clinically relevant fashion.

ObjectiveDetermine the prevalence, types, and geographical distribution of oral tumors in dogs in Switzerland to provide insights into demographics, tumor characteristics, and trends.MethodsThe medical and pathology records of dogs diagnosed with oral tumors from 2012 to 2022 were sourced from diagnostic laboratories in Switzerland. The focus was on histopathologically confirmed oral neoplasms. Inflammatory, viral, and cystic lesions were excluded. Geographic trends were analyzed by use of postal addresses, revealing local distributions.ResultsOf the 948 reports, 773 cases fulfilled the study's criteria. Benign tumors constituted 63% (487 of 773), with peripheral odontogenic fibroma being the most common (77.8% [379 of 487]). Among the malignant tumors, malignant melanoma was the most frequent (38.1% [109 of 286]), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (21% [60 of 286]) and fibrosarcoma (8% [23 of 286]). The locations of tumors varied, with a higher prevalence of malignant melanoma on the lips. Histopathologic findings indicated ulceration and necrosis were more common in malignant tumors. Significant differences were noted in the mitotic index between benign and malignant groups. No tumor predisposition was noted for any breed. Oral tumors were prevalent in older dogs (median age, 9.4 years).ConclusionsThe findings highlighted the predominance of benign tumors in dogs in Switzerland, with specific histopathologic features distinguishing benign from malignant cases.Clinical relevanceUnderstanding the prevalence, types, and geographic distribution of oral tumors based on the representation in dogs in Switzerland may aid in early detection, appropriate diagnostic workup, and informed treatment planning for oral tumors in dogs.

The principal methods to maintain soil fertility in Sahel soils are largely allowing fields to go fallow and manure addition. These methods are not currently sufficient to improve soil fertility. To promote biological amendments, we aimed to understand the plant-growth promoting traits of various soil microbial isolates. The soils collected in different areas in Senegal exhibited a similar eDNA profile of bacteria; the dominant microbes were Firmicutes, followed by Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria. Of 17 isolates identified and tested, the vast majority solubilized rock phosphate and a large number grew on culture medium containing 6% salt, but very few degraded starches or hydrolysed carboxymethyl cellulose or produced siderophores. Upon single inoculation, Peribacillus asahii RC16 and Dietzia cinnamea 55 significantly increased pearl millet growth and yield parameters. For cowpea, plant shoot length was significantly increased by Pseudarthrobacter phenanthrenivorans MKAG7 co-inoculated with Bradyrhizobium elkanii 20TpCR5, and nearly all rhizobacteria tested significantly improved cowpea dry weight and pod weight. Additionally, the double inoculation of Dietzia cinnamea 55 and MKAG7 significantly increased shoot length, dry weight, and seed head weight of pearl millet. These isolates are promising inoculants because they are ecologically-friendly, cost-effective, sustainable, and have fewer negative effects on the soil and its inhabitants.

To report the outcomes of cats that underwent surgical correction for sialoceles. Multi-institutional retrospective cohort study. Twenty-one client-owned cats. Medical records were examined of cats diagnosed with sialocele, which underwent surgical intervention over an 11-year period at one of 10 referral hospitals. The data collected included signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic imaging, histopathology, surgical procedures performed, and postoperative complications. The most common presenting complaints for cats with sialocele included dysphagia and ptyalism. Only two cats had a recent history of trauma, and one was diagnosed with a concurrent sialolith. Most displayed visible tissue swelling, with ranulae being most common. Surgical treatment consisted of sialoadenectomy and/or marsupialization. Intraoperative complications occurred in three cats, and postoperative complications in five cats. No recurrence or development of contralateral sialoceles were reported during the follow-up period (30-968 days). The majority of cats did not have a clear underlying cause for developing a sialocele. The sublingual and mandibular salivary glands were presumed to be the most commonly affected. Mandibular and sublingual sialoadenectomy and/or marsupialization provided resolution of clinical signs to the 21 cats that underwent these procedures. Sialocele, although rare, should remain a differential diagnosis when managing cats with relevant clinical signs. Surgical intervention appears to offer resolution of signs with apparently low overall risk of complication or short-term recurrence. In cats it is necessary to evaluate whether sialoadenectomy is necessary, or whether marsupialization alone should be attempted as a less invasive first-line surgical intervention.

ObjectiveTo investigate the impact of surgery resident training on surgery duration in tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) and evaluate whether surgery duration differs with each year of residency training.Study designRetrospective medical record review.AnimalsA total of 256 client-owned dogs underwent TPLO.MethodsRecords of dogs that underwent TPLO between August 2019 and August 2022 were reviewed. The effects of the surgeon (faculty/resident) and the procedure (arthrotomy/arthroscopy) on TPLO surgery duration were examined with an analysis of variance, and geometric least squares means (GLSM) were compared. A linear mixed effects model (LMM) was fitted to quantify fixed and random effects.ResultsFour faculty surgeons performed 74 (29%) TPLOs, while 10 residents performed 182 (71%) TPLOs under the direct supervision of a faculty surgeon. All TPLOs were conducted with arthrotomy (109; 43%) or arthroscopy (147; 57%). Overall, residents (GLSM, 153 min) required 54% more surgery duration than faculty surgeons (GLSM, 99 min). Surgery duration among first-year residents (GLSM, 170 min) was 15% longer than second- (GLSM, 148 min) and third-year (GLSM, 147 min) residents, whereas the duration did not differ statistically between second- and third-year residents. Arthroscopy, meniscal tear treatment, surgery on the right stifle, and increasing patient weight were also associated with longer surgery duration.ConclusionThe duration of TPLO surgery significantly decreased after the first year of residency, but did not decrease afterward.Clinical significanceThe results will aid with resource allocation, curricula planning, and cost management associated with resident training.

ObjectiveAfter the 2012 Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) CPR Guidelines, this is an update of evidence-based consensus guidelines for Basic Life Support (BLS), advanced life support (ALS), and periarrest monitoring.DesignThese RECOVER CPR Guidelines were generated using a modified version of the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system for evidence evaluation and translation of this evidence into clear and actionable clinical instructions. Prioritized clinical questions in the Population, Intervention, Comparator, and Outcome (PICO) format were used as the basis to conduct systematic literature searches by information specialists, to extract information from relevant publications, to assess this evidence for quality, and finally to translate the findings into treatment recommendations. These recommendations were reviewed by the RECOVER writing group and opened for comment by veterinary professionals for 4 weeks.SettingTransdisciplinary, international collaboration in university, specialty, and emergency practice.ResultsA total of 40 worksheets were prepared to evaluate questions across the 3 domains of BLS, ALS and Monitoring, resulting in 90 individual treatment recommendations. High-dose epinephrine is no longer recommended, and atropine, if used, is only administered once. Bag-mask ventilation is prioritized over mouth-to-nose ventilation in nonintubated animals. In addition, an algorithm for initial assessment, an updated CPR algorithm, a rhythm diagnosis tool, and an updated drug dosing table are provided.ConclusionsWhile the majority of the BLS and ALS recommendations remain unchanged, some noteworthy changes were made due to new evidence that emerged over the past 10 years. Indirectness of evidence remains the largest impediment to the certainty of guidelines formulation and underscores an urgent need for more studies in the target species of dogs and cats.

ObjectiveTo systematically review evidence on and devise treatment recommendations for patient monitoring before, during, and following CPR in dogs and cats, and to identify critical knowledge gaps.DesignStandardized, systematic evaluation of literature pertinent to peri-CPR monitoring following Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Prioritized questions were each reviewed by Evidence Evaluators, and findings were reconciled by Monitoring Domain Chairs and Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Co-Chairs to arrive at treatment recommendations commensurate to quality of evidence, risk:benefit relationship, and clinical feasibility. This process was implemented using an Evidence Profile Worksheet for each question that included an introduction, consensus on science, treatment recommendations, justification for these recommendations, and important knowledge gaps. A draft of these worksheets was distributed to veterinary professionals for comment for 4 weeks prior to finalization.SettingTransdisciplinary, international collaboration in university, specialty, and emergency practice.ResultsThirteen questions pertaining to hemodynamic, respiratory, and metabolic monitoring practices for identification of cardiopulmonary arrest, quality of CPR, and postcardiac arrest care were examined, and 24 treatment recommendations were formulated. Of these, 5 recommendations pertained to aspects of end-tidal CO2 (ETco2) measurement. The recommendations were founded predominantly on very low quality of evidence, with some based on expert opinion.ConclusionsThe Monitoring Domain authors continue to support initiation of chest compressions without pulse palpation. We recommend multimodal monitoring of patients at risk of cardiopulmonary arrest, at risk of re-arrest, or under general anesthesia. This report highlights the utility of ETco2 monitoring to verify correct intubation, identify return of spontaneous circulation, evaluate quality of CPR, and guide basic life support measures. Treatment recommendations further suggest intra-arrest evaluation of electrolytes (ie, potassium and calcium), as these may inform outcome-relevant interventions.

ObjectiveTo describe the methodology used by the Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) to re-evaluate the scientific evidence relevant to CPR in small and large animals, to newborn resuscitation, and to first aid and to formulate the respective consensus-based clinical guidelines.DesignThis report describes the evidence-to-guidelines process employed by RECOVER that is based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach and includes Information Specialist-driven systematic literature search, evidence evaluation conducted by more than 200 veterinary professionals, and provision of clinical guidelines in the domains of Preparedness and Prevention, Basic Life Support, Advanced Life Support, Post-cardiac Arrest Care, Newborn Resuscitation, First Aid, and Large Animal CPR.SettingTransdisciplinary, international collaboration in academia, referral practice, and general practice.ResultsFor this update to the RECOVER 2012 CPR guidelines, we answered 135 Population, Intervention, Comparator, and Outcome (PICO) questions with the help of a team of Domain Chairs, Information Specialists, and more than 200 Evidence Evaluators. Most primary contributors were veterinary specialists or veterinary technician specialists. The RECOVER 2024 Guidelines represent the first veterinary application of the GRADE approach to clinical guideline development. We employed an iterative process that follows a predefined sequence of steps designed to reduce bias of Evidence Evaluators and to increase the repeatability of the quality of evidence assessments and ultimately the treatment recommendations. The process also allowed numerous important knowledge gaps to emerge that form the foundation for prioritizing research efforts in veterinary resuscitation science.ConclusionsLarge collaborative, volunteer-based development of evidence- and consensus-based clinical guidelines is challenging and complex but feasible. The experience gained will help refine the process for future veterinary guidelines initiatives.

ObjectiveTo systematically review evidence and devise treatment recommendations for basic life support (BLS) in dogs and cats and to identify critical knowledge gaps.DesignStandardized, systematic evaluation of literature pertinent to BLS following Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Prioritized questions were each reviewed by 2 Evidence Evaluators, and findings were reconciled by BLS Domain Chairs and Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Co-Chairs to arrive at treatment recommendations commensurate to quality of evidence, risk to benefit relationship, and clinical feasibility. This process was implemented using an Evidence Profile Worksheet for each question that included an introduction, consensus on science, treatment recommendations, justification for these recommendations, and important knowledge gaps. A draft of these worksheets was distributed to veterinary professionals for comment for 4 weeks prior to finalization.SettingTransdisciplinary, international collaboration in university, specialty, and emergency practice.ResultsTwenty questions regarding animal position, chest compression point and technique, ventilation strategies, as well as the duration of CPR cycles and chest compression pauses were examined, and 32 treatment recommendations were formulated. Out of these, 25 addressed chest compressions and 7 informed ventilation during CPR. The recommendations were founded predominantly on very low quality of evidence and expert opinion. These new treatment recommendations continue to emphasize the critical importance of high-quality, uninterrupted chest compressions, with a modification suggested for the chest compression technique in wide-chested dogs. When intubation is not possible, bag-mask ventilation using a tight-fitting facemask with oxygen supplementation is recommended rather than mouth-to-nose ventilation.ConclusionsThese updated RECOVER BLS treatment recommendations emphasize continuous chest compressions, conformation-specific chest compression techniques, and ventilation for all animals. Very low quality of evidence due to absence of clinical data in dogs and cats consistently compromised the certainty of recommendations, emphasizing the need for more veterinary research in this area.

ObjectiveTo systematically review the evidence and devise clinical recommendations on advanced life support (ALS) in dogs and cats and to identify critical knowledge gaps.DesignStandardized, systematic evaluation of literature pertinent to ALS following Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Prioritized questions were each reviewed by Evidence Evaluators, and findings were reconciled by ALS Domain Chairs and Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Co-Chairs to arrive at treatment recommendations commensurate to quality of evidence, risk:benefit relationship, and clinical feasibility. This process was implemented using an Evidence Profile Worksheet for each question that included an introduction, consensus on science, treatment recommendations, justification for these recommendations, and important knowledge gaps. A draft of these worksheets was distributed to veterinary professionals for comment for 4 weeks prior to finalization.SettingTransdisciplinary, international collaboration in university, specialty, and emergency practice.ResultsSeventeen questions pertaining to vascular access, vasopressors in shockable and nonshockable rhythms, anticholinergics, defibrillation, antiarrhythmics, and adjunct drug therapy as well as open-chest CPR were reviewed. Of the 33 treatment recommendations formulated, 6 recommendations addressed the management of patients with nonshockable arrest rhythms, 10 addressed shockable rhythms, and 6 provided guidance on open-chest CPR. We recommend against high-dose epinephrine even after prolonged CPR and suggest that atropine, when indicated, is used only once. In animals with a shockable rhythm in which initial defibrillation was unsuccessful, we recommend doubling the defibrillator dose once and suggest vasopressin (or epinephrine if vasopressin is not available), esmolol, lidocaine in dogs, and/or amiodarone in cats.ConclusionsThese updated RECOVER ALS guidelines clarify the approach to refractory shockable rhythms and prolonged CPR. Very low quality of evidence due to absence of clinical data in dogs and cats continues to compromise the certainty with which recommendations can be made.

One of the key factors influencing aging and morbidity is the overall antioxidant status and regenerative capacity. In examining contributors to the antioxidant status, we analyzed the thiamine status in felines and the influence of age, gender, and body condition score. We measured erythrocytic B1-dependent specific transketolase (STKT) activity, an enzyme in the pentose phosphate pathway, in a group of 60 sexually intact, healthy, and specific pathogen-free felines (44 females, 16 males, aged 1–17 years) with thiamine diphosphate (TDP; 0.3 and 3 mM) and without it. Only two parameters (STKT activity with and without 0.3 mM TDP) decreased with age. After adjusting for age, statistical thresholds were established using these and other age-independent parameters, identifying 15 felines with subclinical thiamine deficiency. The red blood cell proteomics analysis revealed that the pentose phosphate shunt, glycolysis, and oxidative stress response were the most affected pathways in deficient felines, confirming the above diagnosis. Age emerged as the primary factor associated with thiamine deficiency, supported by the enrichment of neurodegenerative diseases with a proteotoxicity component; five young-adult felines showed marginal or acute B1 deficiency, and six were adult-mature with a more chronic deficiency, possibly linked to cognitive decline, all with an underweight to ideal body condition scores. Only three senior-adult felines were deficient and overweight-obese. Detecting thiamine deficiency emphasizes the need for more accurate reference values, the establishment of advanced preventive or therapeutic measures to enhance the well-being of aging companion animals, and potential extensions to human health, particularly concerning cognitive function.

ObjectiveEvaluate whether total elbow replacement (TER) through a lateral approach is accurate and stable.Animals12 skeletally mature large-breed dog cadavers were used.MethodsLimb alignment, elbow joint motion, and collateral ligament laxity were evaluated preoperatively. The order of surgery (left or right) and the approach (lateral or medial) were randomly selected for TER in each dog. The other approach was used in the contralateral elbow. Intraoperative technical difficulties, duration of surgery, and anatomic complications were recorded. Limb alignment, elbow joint motion, collateral ligament laxity, and prosthetic component alignment were evaluated after surgery. Data were collected from June 11 to 15, 2023.ResultsThe duration of surgery using a lateral or medial approach did not differ (P = .499). Anatomic complications were not observed. The lateral approach resulted in 8° more elbow extension (P = .003), 1.58° less lateral collateral ligament constraint (P = .033), 2.80° less medial collateral ligament constraint (P = .002), 4.38° less frontal plane constraint (P = .004), 8° greater humeral component inclination (P = .033), and 5.6° greater radioulnar component varus (P = .001) than the medial approach. Varus of the radius, mechanical axis deviation, limb supination, elbow flexion, mediolateral humeral component and craniocaudal radioulnar component orientation did not differ among joints operated using a lateral or medial approach. In normal cadaveric elbows, a lateral approach for TER appears feasible, producing equivalent limb alignment, joint laxity, and joint motion to normal elbows and to TER placed using a medial approach.Clinical relevanceIn dogs, TER can be performed using a lateral surgical approach.

BackgroundGlanzmann's thrombasthenia (GT) is a congenital platelet disorder affecting approximately 1:1 000 000 people globally and characterized by impaired platelet aggregation and clot retraction. Autosomal recessive, loss-of-function, variants in ITGA2B or ITGB3 of the αIIbβ3 receptor cause the disease in humans. A cat affected by Glanzmann's and macrothrombocytopenia was presented to the UC Davis VMTH.Hypothesis/objectivesSevere thrombopathia in this cat has an underlying genetic etiology.AnimalsA single affected patient, 2 age-matched clinically healthy controls, and a geriatric population (n = 20) of normal cats.MethodsPhysical examination and clinical pathology tests were performed on the patient. Flow cytometry and platelet aggregometry analyses for patient phenotyping were performed. Patient and validation cohort gDNA samples were extracted for Sanger sequencing of a previously identified ITGA2B (c.1986delC) variant. Reverse transcriptase PCR was performed on patient and healthy control PRP samples to verify ITGA2B variant consequence.ResultsA novel c.1986_1987insCC autosomal recessive variant in ITGA2B was identified. This variant was absent in a population of 194 unrelated cats spanning 44 different breeds. Complete loss of ITGA2B transcript and protein expression was verified by RT-PCR and flow cytometry, explaining the underlying etiology of GT, and likely macrothrombocytopenia, in this cat.Conclusions and clinical importanceThis study emphasizes the role of precision medicine in cardiovascular disease of cats and identified yet another variant that may be of utility for screening in the feline population. This study provides a small-volume, standardized, successful protocol for adequate platelet RNA isolation and subsequent molecular assessment of gene expression in cats.

BackgroundFecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is increasingly used for gastrointestinal and extra-gastrointestinal diseases in veterinary medicine. However, its effects on immune responses and possible adverse events have not been systematically investigated.Hypothesis/objectivesDetermine the short-term safety profile and changes in the peripheral immune system after a single FMT administration in healthy dogs.AnimalsTen client-owned, clinically healthy dogs as FMT recipients, and 2 client-owned clinically healthy dogs as FMT donors.MethodsProspective non-randomized clinical trial. A single rectal enema of 5 g/kg was given to clinically healthy canine recipients. During the 28 days after FMT administration, owners self-reported adverse events and fecal scores. On Days 0 (baseline), 1, 4, 10, and 28 after FMT, fecal and blood samples were collected. The canine fecal dysbiosis index (DI) was calculated using qPCR.ResultsNo significant changes were found in the following variables: CBC, serum biochemistry, C-reactive protein, serum cytokines (interleukins [IL]-2, -6, -8, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α), peripheral leukocytes (B cells, T cells, cluster of differentiation [CD]4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, T regulatory cells), and the canine DI. Mild vomiting (n = 3), diarrhea (n = 4), decreased activity (n = 2), and inappetence (n = 1) were reported, and resolved without intervention.Conclusions and clinical importanceFecal microbiota transplantation did not significantly alter the evaluated variables and recipients experienced minimal adverse events associated with FMT administration. Fecal microbiota transplantation was not associated with serious adverse events, changes in peripheral immunologic variables, or the canine DI in the short-term.

As chronic wasting disease (CWD) continues to spread across North America, the relationship between CWD and host genetics has become of interest. In Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni), one or two copies of a leucine allele at codon 132 of the prion protein gene (132L*) has been shown to prolong the incubation period of CWD. Our study examined the relationship between CWD epidemiology and codon 132 evolution in elk from Wyoming, USA, from 2011 to 2018. Using PCR and Sanger sequencing, we genotyped 997 elk and assessed the relationship between genotype and CWD prevalence estimated from surveillance data. Using logistic regression, we showed that each 1% increase in CWD prevalence is associated with a 9.6% increase in the odds that an elk would have at least one copy of leucine at codon 132. In some regions, however, 132L* variants were found in the absence of CWD, indicating that evolutionary and epidemiologic patterns can be heterogeneous across space and time. We also provide evidence that naturally occurring CWD is not rare in 132L* elk, which merits the study of shedding kinetics in 132L* elk and the influence of genotype on CWD strain diversity. The management implications of cervid adaptations to CWD are difficult to predict. Studies that investigate the degree to which evolutionary outcomes are shaped by host spatial structure can provide useful epidemiologic insight, which can in turn aid management by informing scale and extent of mitigation actions.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the kinematics and stability of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of cats and dogs with and without a TMJ replacement (TMJR) prosthesis under simulated bite forces and mouth opening.AnimalsSixteen cadaver skulls from domestic cats (n = 8) and medium- to large-breed dogs (n = 8).MethodsIntact TMJs were tested. Following condylectomy and coronoidectomy, the skulls were fitted with a TMJR prosthesis unilaterally and retested. Prosthesis was similarly implanted in the contralateral TMJ in 4 cats and 4 dogs before retesting. Left and right bite motions were evaluated before bite contact to peak bite force (200 N in dogs, 63 N in cats). Mouth opening motion was recorded. Mandibular displacement under load was evaluated in 3 orthogonal planes. Maximal displacement was compared between TMJR groups and native TMJ. Prosthesis-bone motion of the temporal and mandibular components was evaluated during simulated bites and mouth opening.ResultsTMJR resulted in joint motion not demonstrably different from the native TMJ, with the ability to fully open and close the mouth and with minimal laterotrusion. The TMJR prosthesis demonstrated similar stability after unilateral and bilateral replacement during bite force and with an open mouth. Mean implant-bone motion during bite simulations for the temporal and mandibular TMJR components was ≤ 60 µm in cats and ≤ 30 µm in dogs.Clinical relevanceA novel TMJR can be implanted and allows normal jaw motion. Joint stability is maintained after TMJR implantation in the TMJ of dogs and cats TMJ that is devoid of muscular support.

ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to compare drilling variables and torsional mechanical properties of rabbit femora after bicortical drilling with a 1.5-mm standard surgical drill bit, acrylic drill bit, and K-wire.Samples24 pairs of rabbit femora.MethodsAfter drilling under controlled axial displacement rate, each bone was biaxially loaded in compression followed by rapid external torsion to failure. Maximum axial thrust force, maximum drill torque, integral of force and displacement, change in temperature, maximum power spectral density of the torque signal, torque vibration, and torque and angle at the yield and failure points were collected. Pre- and postyield stiffness, yield and failure energies, and postyield energy were calculated.ResultsThe work required to drill through the cis- and transcortices (integral of force and displacement) was greater for the K-wire, followed by the acrylic and then standard drill bits, respectively. The K-wire demonstrated higher maximum torque than the drill bits at the ciscortex, and the force of drilling was significantly greater. The vibration data was greater with the acrylic and standard drill bits than the K-wire. There was no difference in torsional strength between drilling types.Clinical relevanceMechanical differences exist between different drill bits and K-wire and demonstrate that the K-wire is overall more damaging than the surgical drill bit.

ObjectiveExtracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are promising avenues in regenerative medicine, offering unique immunomodulatory and regenerative properties with lower immunogenicity. This study delves into the distinctive features of EVs extracted from feline adipose-derived MSCs (ASCs) and placenta-derived MSCs (PMSCs). The tissues were collected from 11 female cats aged between 4 and 7 years old.SampleEVs extracted from MSCs from discarded fetal membranes from 7 female cats and SC adipose tissue from 11 cats.MethodsWe comprehensively explored morphological characteristics, mitochondrial density, surface markers, and pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators, uncovering notable differences between ASCs and PMSCs.ResultsMorphologically, ASCs exhibit a spindle-shaped form in contrast to the spherical morphology of PMSCs. Proliferation and clonogenic potential assessments reveal the faster proliferation and robust clonogenic nature of ASCs, suggesting their potential vital role in regenerative processes. Surface marker expression analysis indicates a significantly higher expression of multipotency-associated markers in ASCs, suggesting their superior proregenerative potential. Phenotyping of EVs demonstrates distinctive features, with CD9 expression suggesting varied EV secretion patterns. Notably, PMSCs exhibit superior CD81 expression, indicating their potential as preferred donors of mitochondria. Pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators analyzed at mRNA and microRNA levels reveal higher RNA content in EVs compared to source cells, emphasizing the potential of EVs in directing regenerative processes. Differential microRNA expression in EVs derived from ASCs hints at their regulatory roles in anti-inflammatory and immunometabolic processes.Clinical relevanceThis study lays a foundation for understanding the nuances between ASCs and PMSCs, which is crucial for harnessing the full therapeutic potential of MSCs and their EVs in tissue repair and regeneration.

The field of veterinary entomology is dominated by research concerning insects and arthropods that negatively impact the health of domestic animals. A curated selection of peer-reviewed research which was highlighted at the 2022 Joint Meeting between the Entomological Society of America, the Entomological Society of Canada, and the Entomological Society of British Columbia, which prioritized exploring entomology through the lens of art, science, and culture are summarized. Articles are categorized into (i) biting and non-biting flies, (ii) ectoparasites, and (iii) review articles, with the overall goal of showcasing innovative methodologies, addressing overlooked questions in veterinary entomology, and highlighting comprehensive reviews. While not exhaustive, the selected studies represent a myriad of arthropods, methodologies, and perspectives, to inspire future scientists with diverse research avenues and emphasize the continual evolution and importance of entomological studies in today's world.

ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to determine whether cats that exhibit aggression during veterinary visits are more likely to have behavior problems at home.MethodsAn online, anonymous, cross-sectional survey was developed and distributed to residents in the USA who were aged over 18 years and who were the primary owners of at least one cat. The survey collected information about cat and household factors, and utilized a validated questionnaire instrument for obtaining behavioral information of pet cats.ResultsAggression at the veterinary clinic was reported in 42.6% of the cats. The frequency of aggression exhibited at the veterinary clinic was lower in cats that lived in multi-cat households. Most cats did not receive medications intended to reduce fear, anxiety and/or pain before veterinary visits. Aggression at the veterinary clinic was positively associated with behavior problems at home, including stranger-directed aggression, owner-directed aggression, resistance to restraint, familiar cat aggression, dog-directed aggression, house-soiling, separation-related behaviors and scratching claws on inappropriate surfaces indoors.Conclusions and relevanceCats that exhibit aggression at the veterinary clinic are more likely to exhibit aggression and anxiety-related behaviors at home. Veterinarians should screen cats that exhibit aggression at the veterinary clinic for behavior problems at home to institute prompt diagnosis and treatment.

In this article the affiliation details for Baylin J. Bennett, Thomas D. Brewer and Lora E. Flemming were incorrectly given as 'European Centre for the Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro Cornwall TR1 3HD, UK, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1665 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35233 and Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, Building 233, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia' but should have been 'Baylin J. Bennett (Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1665 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35233), Thomas D. Brewer (Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, Building 233, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia) and Lora E. Flemming (European Centre for the Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro Cornwall TR1 3HD, UK). The original article has been corrected.

“Neurophobia” is a phenomenon in human medical education where students develop negative attitudes towards neurology, impeding student learning and future clinical practice. While suspected to exist in veterinary medical education, it remains unstudied. The main objectives of this study were to examine North American veterinary student attitudes towards neurology and neurology education and explore elements that might contribute to neurophobia. Additional objectives were to evaluate veterinary educators’ perceptions of student neurophobia and to develop and validate a scoring tool (VetNeuroQ) to quantify veterinary neurophobia. Veterinary students and faculty at North American veterinary schools were surveyed. A scoring tool was developed from a subset of questions and validated using confirmatory factor analysis. Six hundred six anonymous responses were collected from students at all stages of veterinary education. Neurology training was reported as insufficient by 35.9% and most respondents perceived neurology to not be easy to learn. Neuroanatomy/physiology and neurolocalization were considered difficult concepts. Students rated low confidence in neurology (vs. other topics), and low interest in the Neurology/Neurosurgery specialty. 61.7% of educators reported neurophobia amongst their students. The proposed VetNeuroQ scale showed high reliability (Cronbach's alpha >0.7) and validity ( p < .05; CFI >0.9, RMSEA

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a heterogenous condition, presenting with core clinical features of autonomic dysfunction, parkinsonism, and/or cerebellar ataxia. The presence of alpha-synuclein glial cytoplasmic inclusion is the hallmark of MSA. It shares a common pathological origin with Parkinson's disease (PD) and Lewy body dementia (DLB) and they are collectively grouped as "synucleinopathies." The pathological synuclein protein is now well- recognized in skin biopsies of these patients. Besides the pathological findings, radiological investigation is a useful diagnostic tool. Brain MRI helps rule out other etiologies, and findings like the "Hot-cross bun" sign, "putaminal atrophy," and "infratentorial findings" can assist with the diagnosis of MSA. Cardiac MIBG scan, autonomic testing, urodynamic studies can help differentiate MSA from other conditions. Although diagnostic tools are available for MSA diagnosis, clarity is needed on when to use these tests. We suggest a diagnostic algorithm to navigate the use of these tests. However, this algorithm is not intended to replace the use of current MDS diagnostic criteria of MSA.

Interceptive orthodontics may be indicated in puppies exhibiting dental malocclusion with linguoverted deciduous mandibular canine teeth to alleviate pain and prevent teeth interlock, which may affect growth and development of the mandibles. Historically extraction of deciduous mandibular canine teeth has been recommended as soon as a malocclusion is identified, often as early as 6-8 weeks of age and no later than 12 weeks of age. This early surgical intervention of deciduous teeth extractions risks potential damage to the developing permanent canine teeth resulting in enamel defects often referred to as a Turner's tooth or Turner's hypoplasia. A search of medical records from five veterinary specialty dentistry practices was conducted to identify dogs 8-12 weeks of age who (a) underwent deciduous mandibular canine extractions for management of class 1 or class 2 malocclusion with linguoverted mandibular canine teeth, and (b) were seen for at least one recheck exam to assess for enamel defects on permanent mandibular canine teeth. Furthermore, data was collected to determine the number of dogs that required additional treatment after eruption of the permanent canine teeth due to linguoversion of the permanent canine teeth. All procedures were performed by a board-certified veterinary dentist™ or a supervised veterinary dentistry resident. Seventy-four dogs fit the inclusion criteria and had a total of 143 deciduous mandibular canine teeth extracted, out of which 13 dogs exhibited enamel defects affecting 21 permanent canine teeth. The 13 affected dogs represent a 17.5% cumulative incident rate 13/74 (95%CI 11-28%). Of all extracted teeth, 14.6% (21/143) had enamel defects affecting permanent canine teeth. Twenty-eight dogs required additional treatment to prevent the permanent mandibular canine teeth from causing trauma to the hard palate and gingiva which represented 37.8% (28/74) of all dogs in the study. Age and sex of the dog at the time of extraction were not found to be associated with the likelihood of incidence of enamel defects. This is the first reported rate of enamel defects on permanent mandibular canine teeth following extraction of deciduous mandibular canine teeth and is important to consider when advising or performing extraction of deciduous teeth in dogs.

There is limited information on the antibody responses against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in subjects from developing countries with populations having a high incidence of co-morbidities. Here, we analysed the immunogenicity of homologous schemes using the ChAdOx1-S, Sputnik V, or BNT162b2 vaccines and the effect of a booster dose with ChAdOx1-S in middle-aged adults who were seropositive or seronegative to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein before vaccination. The study was conducted post-vaccination with a follow-up of 4 months for antibody titre using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and pseudovirus (PV) neutralization assays (PNAs). All three vaccines elicited a superior IgG anti-receptor-binding domain (RBD) and neutralization response against the Alpha and Delta variants when administered to individuals with a previous infection by SARS-CoV-2. The booster dose spiked the neutralization activity among individuals with and without a prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. The ChAdOx1-S vaccine induced weaker antibody responses in infection-naive subjects. A follow-up of 4 months post-vaccination showed a drop in antibody titre, with about 20% of the infection-naive and 100% of SARS-CoV-2 pre-exposed participants with detectable neutralization capacity against Alpha pseudovirus (Alpha-PV) and Delta PV (Delta-PV). Our observations support the use of different vaccines in a country with high seroprevalence at the vaccination time.

Odontodysplasia is an uncommon dental developmental disorder associated with enamel, dentin, pulp abnormalities, and overall tooth morphology. The affected tooth is grossly abnormal in size and contour and is commonly associated with swelling of the affected area and failure of eruption. Histologically, the enamel and dentin are hypoplastic and hypomineralized. Odontodyplasia occurs most commonly in response to direct trauma to the developing tooth bud (enamel organ and dental follicle). Data on the prevalence and features of non-traumatic odontodysplasia are lacking. Medical records of dogs diagnosed with odontodysplasia were reviewed at the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH), University of California, Davis, for 10 years (from 2013 to 2023). Dogs with a known history of facial trauma, persistent deciduous tooth or teeth over the region of odontodysplastic tooth or teeth, and endodontic disease of the persistent deciduous tooth or teeth were excluded from the study. Twenty-eight dogs were included in this retrospective study, representing an incidence of 1.4 per 100 dogs presenting over 10 years. Regional odontodysplasia (RO) was identified in twenty-two dogs, and generalized odontodysplasia (GO) was found in six dogs. Both comprehensive oral examination and diagnostic imaging were essential in diagnosing and assessing the presence of odontodysplasia. Awake oral examination failed to identify odontodysplasia in almost 70% of the RO cases. Secondary diseases or lesions in odontodysplastic teeth, such as periodontal disease, endodontal disease, and perio-endo lesions, were commonly seen and were particularly more frequently identified in strategic teeth (canine and carnassial teeth) than non-strategic ones. Similarities, such as female predilection, maxilla more commonly affected, and clinical signs, were observed between RO in dogs and those reported in people. The exact etiology of non-traumatic odontodysplasia remains elusive, and the condition may be of multifactorial causality.

BackgroundHypoxia is a detrimental factor in solid tumors, leading to aggressiveness and therapy resistance. OMX, a tunable oxygen carrier from the heme nitric oxide/oxygen-binding (H-NOX) protein family, has the potential to reduce tumor hypoxia. [18F]Fluoromisonidazole ([18F]FMISO) positron emission tomography (PET) is the most widely used and investigated method for non-invasive imaging of tumor hypoxia. In this study, we used [18F]FMISO PET/CT (computed tomography) to assess the effect of OMX on tumor hypoxia in spontaneous canine tumors.ResultsThirteen canine patients with various tumors (n = 14) were randomly divided into blocks of two, with the treatment groups alternating between receiving intratumoral (IT) OMX injection (OMX IT group) and intravenous (IV) OMX injection (OMX IV group). Tumors were regarded as hypoxic if maximum tumor-to-muscle ratio (TMRmax) was greater than 1.4. In addition, hypoxic volume (HV) was defined as the region with tumor-to-muscle ratio greater than 1.4 on [18F]FMISO PET images. Hypoxia was detected in 6/7 tumors in the OMX IT group and 5/7 tumors in the OMX IV injection group. Although there was no significant difference in baseline hypoxia between the OMX IT and IV groups, the two groups showed different responses to OMX. In the OMX IV group, hypoxic tumors (n = 5) exhibited significant reductions in tumor hypoxia, as indicated by decreased TMRmax and HV in [18F]FMISO PET imaging after treatment. In contrast, hypoxic tumors in the OMX IT group (n = 6) displayed a significant increase in [18F]FMISO uptake and variable changes in TMRmax and HV.Conclusions[18F]FMISO PET/CT imaging presents a promising non-invasive procedure for monitoring tumor hypoxia and assessing the efficacy of hypoxia-modulating therapies in canine patients. OMX has shown promising outcomes in reducing tumor hypoxia, especially when administered intravenously, as evident from reductions in both TMRmax and HV in [18F]FMISO PET imaging.

This paper examines the legacies of the emergence of the animal control and sheltering industry in the United States and their impact on contemporary public animal shelters. While decades of gradual reform have helped substantially reduce the number of animals entering shelters and being killed there, contemporary animal sheltering largely continues to follow the path set when animal sheltering developed in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Three key interrelated legacies of the pound model of early animal control and sheltering enduringly shape sheltering today: (1) the institutional culture of animal shelters grounded in the logics of caging and killing; (2) the lack of visibility and transparency, especially within government shelters; and (3) the economic logics of the pound model, including the disparities in sheltering resources across communities. Examining the origins of animal control and sheltering and identifying the specific legacies of this pound model within contemporary government-funded shelters improves understanding of why such shelters in the US have developed with a particular set of practices and ideologies, and thus provides an important footing for envisioning and enacting radical changes in animal sheltering.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) remains the most common cardiomyopathy in humans and cats with few preclinical pharmacologic interventional studies. Small-molecule sarcomere inhibitors are promising novel therapeutics for the management of obstructive HCM (oHCM) patients and have shown efficacy in left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) relief. The objective of this study was to explore the 6-, 24-, and 48-hour (h) pharmacodynamic effects of the cardiac myosin inhibitor, CK-586, in six purpose-bred cats with naturally occurring oHCM. A blinded, randomized, five-treatment group, crossover preclinical trial was conducted to assess the pharmacodynamic effects of CK-586 in this oHCM model. Dose assessments and select echocardiographic variables were assessed five times over a 48-h period. Treatment with oral CK-586 safely ameliorated LVOTO in oHCM cats. CK-586 treatment dose-dependently eliminated obstruction (reduced LVOTOmaxPG), increased measures of systolic chamber size (LVIDs Sx), and decreased select measures of heart function (LV FS% and LV EF%) in the absence of impact on heart rate. At all tested doses, a single oral CK-586 dose resulted in improved or resolved LVOTO with well-tolerated, dose-dependent, reductions in LV systolic function. The results from this study pave the way for the potential use of CK-586 in both the veterinary and human clinical setting.

IntroductionDigital tomosynthesis (DT) has emerged as a potential imaging modality for evaluating anatomic structures in veterinary medicine. This study aims to validate the diagnostic yield of DT in identifying predefined anatomic structures in feline cadaver heads, comparing it with conventional intraoral dental radiography (DR).MethodsA total of 16 feline cadaver heads were utilized to evaluate 19 predefined clinically relevant anatomic structures using both DR and DT. A semi-quantitative scoring system was employed to characterize the ability of each imaging method to identify these structures.ResultsDT demonstrated a significantly higher diagnostic yield compared to DR for all evaluated anatomic structures. Orthogonal DT imaging identified 13 additional anatomic landmarks compared to a standard 10-view feline set obtained via DR. Moreover, DT achieved statistically significant higher scores for each of these landmarks, indicating improved visualization over DR.DiscussionThese findings validate the utility of DT technology in reliably identifying clinically relevant anatomic structures in the cat skull. This validation serves as a foundation for further exploration of DT imaging in detecting dentoalveolar and other maxillofacial bony lesions and pathologies in cats.

Mosquito-borne illnesses represent a significant global health peril, resulting in approximately one million fatalities annually. West Nile, dengue, Zika, and malaria are continuously expanding their global reach, driven by factors that escalate mosquito populations and pathogen transmission. Innovative control measures are imperative to combat these catastrophic ailments. Conventional approaches, such as eliminating breeding sites and using insecticides, have been helpful, but they face challenges such as insecticide resistance and environmental harm. Given the mounting severity of mosquito-borne diseases, there is promise in exploring innovative approaches using synthetic biology to bolster mosquitoes' resistance to pathogens, or even eliminate the mosquito vectors, as a means of control. This review outlines current strategies, future goals, and the importance of gene editing for global health defenses against mosquito-borne diseases.

Clinicopathologic data in dogs with prostate cancer (PCa) may aid in the differentiation between tumor types and subsequent treatment decisions; however, these data are often unreported. Demographic, clinicopathologic, cytologic, histologic and survival data from dogs with primary prostatic adenocarcinoma (PRAD) (n = 56) and primary prostatic transitional cell carcinoma (P-TCC) (n = 74) were acquired from a tertiary veterinary teaching hospital from 1992 to 2022. Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) to albumin ratio (RAR) was evaluated for diagnostic utility in differentiating between PRAD and P-TCC. Sections from PRAD tumors (n = 50) were stained for androgen receptor (AR) expression, and laboratory data were compared between AR positive (AR+) and AR negative (AR-) groups. RDW was increased in PRAD, while albumin was decreased (p < 0.05). P-TCC was associated with Melamed-Wolinska bodies (MWB) and necrosis on cytology (p < 0.05). RAR had acceptable diagnostic utility in the differentiation of PCa tumors (AUC = 0.7; p < 0.05). Survival rates and metastases were equivocal. AR+ and AR- PRAD tumors did not differ in clinicopathologic data or survival (p > 0.05). In conclusion, hypoalbuminemia was significantly associated with PRAD and decreased survival, while MWB and necrosis were significantly associated with P-TCC on cytology. These clinicopathologic data may help clinicians differentiate between these tumors ante mortem to guide appropriate treatment and intervention.

IntroductionPaneth cells are critically important to intestinal health, including protecting intestinal stem cells, shaping the intestinal microbiome, and regulating host immunity. Understanding Paneth cell biology in the immature intestine is often modeled in rodents with little information in larger mammals such as sheep. Previous studies have only established the distribution pattern of Paneth cells in healthy adult sheep. Our study aimed to examine the ontogeny, quantification, and localization of Paneth cells in fetal and newborn lambs at different gestational ages and with perinatal transient asphyxia. We hypothesized that ovine Paneth cell distribution at birth resembles the pattern seen in humans (highest concentrations in the ileum) and that ovine Paneth cell density is gestation-dependent.MethodsIntestinal samples were obtained from 126-127 (preterm, with and without perinatal transient asphyxia) and 140-141 (term) days gestation sheep. Samples were quantified per crypt in at least 100 crypts per animal and confirmed as Paneth cells through in immunohistochemistry.ResultsPaneth cells had significantly higher density in the ileum compared to the jejunum and were absent in the colon.DiscussionExposure to perinatal transient asphyxia acutely decreased Paneth cell numbers. These novel data support the possibility of utilizing ovine models for understanding Paneth cell biology in the fetus and neonate.

Limited studies are available on vitamin B6 status in domestic cats. To this end, we evaluated glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) activity in hemolysates with and without pyridoxal 5'-phosphate addition in two feline populations: a cohort of 60 healthy, domestic (sexually intact and specific pathogen-free) cats maintained under strictly controlled conditions with appropriate diets housed at the Feline Nutrition and Pet Care Center, and a cohort of 57 cats randomly selected between December 2022 to January 2023 that visited the Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospital to seek care under different circumstances. The GOT activity expressed as the ratio with and without pyridoxal 5'-phosphate addition (primary activation ratio; PAR) decreased significantly with age in the healthy cohort. The PAR values normalized to age established a cut-off for vitamin B6 deficiency in both cohorts, identifying 17 of 101 animals as vitamin B6 deficient. Using machine learning, a partition-based model (decision tree) was built to identify the most important factors that predicted vitamin B6 deficiency while using the resulting tree to make predictions for new observations. This analysis, performed with all 101 cats, revealed that the diagnosis of an infectious, chronic or acute condition (0.55) was the main contributor, followed by age (0.26), and body condition score (optimal-overweight; 0.19). Thus, our study supports that vitamin B6 supplementation may be indicated in junior to adult animals diagnosed with an infectious, chronic, or acute conditions or healthy cats with body weight ranging from optimal to overweight. In older cats, even if healthy, underweight to optimal cats appear to be at risk of vitamin B6 deficiency.

IntroductionIn recent years, Volcanoes National Park has seen a rise in its wildlife population, primarily due to the diligent efforts of the Rwandan government in safeguarding endangered species, notably the mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei spp. beringei). This population growth has led to a pressing need for more expansive habitats, ensuring these creatures have ample space, sustenance, and shelter for their wellbeing. Consequently, there are planned park expansion activities on the horizon. However, before initiating this expansion, a critical prelude involves identifying potential threats, particularly toxic substances stemming from agricultural activities in the surrounding environment of Volcanoes National Park.MethodsTo address this concern, a comprehensive study was conducted, aimed at pinpointing potential toxic hazards and assessing the awareness of the local population regarding the harm these hazards pose to wildlife species. Data was collected from individuals with no prior knowledge of the study using a pre-tested questionnaire. The questionnaire was divided into three sections: socio-demographic issues, potential toxic hazards assessment, and a section to determine awareness and risk of potential toxic hazards to humans, animals, and the environment. Respondents were selected based on specific criteria, which included being 18 years or older and residing within the National Volcano Park (NVP) area.ResultsThe study's findings revealed four main categories of potential toxic hazards, which include household chemicals, pharmaceutical products, agricultural pesticides, and poisonous plants. These hazards could jeopardize the health and survival of wildlife species if they consume or come into contact with them. Furthermore, the study exposed an inadequacy in the knowledge and skills of the local community in preventing these toxic hazards, which can result in death of wildlife species and ecosystem contamination and degradation.ConclusionStudy results also underscored the significance of education and training in enhancing the awareness of local communities concerning these toxic threats. Therefore, it is imperative to implement immediate measures to mitigate the adverse effects of these toxic hazards on wildlife species, especially in light of the planned park expansion.

To determine the safety and protective efficacy of a C. muridarum MOMP vaccine, formulated with CpG-1826 and four different concentrations of Montanide ISA 720 VG (70%, 50%, 30% and 10%), BALB/c mice were immunized twice intramuscularly. Local reactogenicity was significant for vaccines formulated with 70% and 50% Montanide but not in mice receiving 30% and 10% Montanide. Robust humoral and cell mediated memory immune responses were elicited by the 70%, 50% and 30% Montanide formulations. Mice were challenged intranasally with C. muridarum and, at day 10 post-challenge, mice were euthanized. Based on changes in body weight, lung's weight and number of IFU recovered, mice vaccinated with the 70%, 50% and 30% Montanide formulations were significantly protected, but not mice receiving 10% Montanide. To conclude, we recommend the 30% Montanide concentration to be tested in humans and animal models to determine its safety and efficacy, in comparison to the 70% Montanide concentration currently used. The 30% Montanide formulation will significantly facilitate licensing for human use.

The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii infects approximately 2.5 billion people worldwide. Infection induces a rapid dissemination of parasites throughout the body followed by the formation of lifelong cysts within neurons of the host brain. Both stages require a dynamic immune response comprised of both innate and adaptive cells. Neutrophils are a primary responding cell to acute infection and have been observed in the brain during murine chronic infection. Previous studies investigating human neutrophils found that invasion by Toxoplasma tachyzoites inhibits apoptosis of neutrophils, prolonging their survival under inflammatory conditions. Here, we demonstrate the differentiation of two distinct subsets following exposure of human neutrophil-like-cells (HNLC) to Toxoplasma cysts. In vitro stimulation and imaging studies show cyst-specific induction of cytokines and cyst clearance by HNLCs. Further testing demonstrates that aged HNLCs perform less phagocytosis of cysts compared to non-aged HNLCs. In conclusion, this study identifies a novel response of HNLCs to Toxoplasma cysts and may indicate a role for neutrophils in the clearance of cysts during human infection with Toxoplasma.

Decreased appetite is a common clinical problem in captive rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). Mirtazapine, a tetracyclic antidepressant originally developed for humans, has shown promise as a safe and effective promoter of weight gain and appetite in several veterinary species including rhesus and cynomolgus macaques. Although mirtazapine is available as oral formulations, transdermal delivery in macaques with reduced appetite would allow quick, painless, topical application. Here we describe the pharmacokinetics of a single application of a widely available veterinary transdermal mirtazapine formulation in 6 rhesus macaques. A dose of 0.5 mg/kg of transdermal mirtazapine ointment that has proven to be effective in rhesus was applied to the caudal pinnae of 3 female and 3 male young adult macaques. Serum was collected at 0, 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 8, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h after administration. Our data indicate transdermal mirtazapine is absorbed at a lower level in rhesus as compared with published values in domestic cats (rhesus peak serum concentration: 1.2 ± 0.3 ng/mL), while drug half-life is longer than that reported in cats (rhesus: 33 ± 7 h). Mirtazapine reaches peak plasma concentrations in rhesus at 16 ± 10 h after administration; our model indicates that up to 5 d of serial dosing may be necessary to reach steady state. Our preliminary data also suggest that sex differences may contribute to efficacy and/or indicate sex-based differences, as male macaques reached Tmax more quickly than females (19 ± 2 h in females and 8 ± 3 h in males) and showed higher variation in half-life (33 ± 4 h in females and 34 ± 11 h in males). While previous work indicates clinical efficacy of the 0.5-mg/kg dosage in macaques, further investigation is warranted to determine if rhesus may benefit from higher recommended doses than companion animal species.

ObjectiveDetermine diagnostic yield of chest, abdomen, and 4-site screening to diagnose metastatic disease and secondary diseases of prognostic significance in dogs with oral cancer.SampleMedical records from 381 dogs with histologically confirmed oral tumors that underwent preoperative screening were retrospectively reviewed.ResultsThoracic metastasis was diagnosed in 4.9% (0.9% odontogenic, 6.5% nonodontogenic) of oral tumors. Oral malignant melanoma and multilobular osteochondrosarcoma were most at risk. Abdominal metastasis was diagnosed in 2% of oral tumors (0% odontogenic, 3.1% nonodontogenic) and cytologically confirmed in 2 cases (0.6% [2/295)] of all abdominal ultrasounds (AUS) 5.5% [2/36] of all AUS that had cytology). Both cases had oral malignant melanoma. Incidental disease was diagnosed in 53.1% and 81.3% of thoracic and abdominal screenings, respectively. Major findings were more common in AUS (7.8%) compared to thoracic screening (1.9%). The prevalence of incidental findings was similar for odontogenic and nonodontogenic tumors. Both metastasis and major findings were diagnosed more commonly with thoracic CT compared to radiographs. Metastasis or a major finding of prognostic significance was diagnosed in at least 1 test in 27.8% of patients that had head CT, lymph node cytology, thoracic screening, and AUS (n = 115).Clinical relevanceMajor incidental findings were more commonly detected with AUS and were diagnosed in 1 in every 12 patients. However, metastatic disease was most commonly detected with thoracic screening. When all 4 screening tests are performed, there is an approximately 1 in 4 chance of diagnosing metastasis or major significant disease regardless of tumor type.

The encroachment and rapid spread of Anopheles stephensi across Africa presents a significant challenge to malaria control and elimination efforts. Understanding the ecology and behavior of An. stephensi will critically inform control measures and provide prerequisite knowledge for exploring new larval and adult control tools to contain its spread.

ObjectiveDetermine locoregional diagnostic yield of 4-site screening (head, neck, chest, and abdomen) to diagnose metastatic disease or clinically significant comorbid diseases in dogs with oral cancer.Animals381 dogs with histologically confirmed oral tumors.MethodsMedical records from 381 dogs with histologically confirmed oral tumors that underwent preoperative screening were retrospectively reviewed.ResultsSkull and neck CT scan was performed on 348 patients. Bone lysis was present in 74.4% of tumors. Oral squamous cell carcinoma, sarcomas, and T2-T3 (> 2 cm) tumors had a significantly (P < .05) increased incidence of lysis compared to odontogenic and T1 (< 2 cm) tumors, respectively. Minor incidental findings were present in 60.6% of CT scans. Major incidental findings were found in 4.6% of scans. The risk of diagnosing an incidental finding increased by 10% and 20% per year of age for minor and major findings, respectively. Lymph node metastasis was diagnosed with CT or cytology in 7.5% of cases (10.7% of nonodontogenic tumors, 0% of odontogenic tumors). Oral malignant melanoma, oral squamous cell carcinoma, and T3 tumors had the highest prevalence of metastatic disease at the time of staging. The presence of bone lysis was not associated with cervical metastasis.Clinical relevanceMajor incidental findings were rare (< 5%) but primarily included secondary extraoral tumors. Lymphatic metastasis was diagnosed in 10.7% of nonodontogenic tumors, but cytology was not performed in the majority of cases and often included only a single mandibular node. Therefore, these results likely underestimate the incidence of lymphatic metastasis. Guided lymph node sampling is highly recommended, especially for oral malignant melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and T2-T3 tumors.

BackgroundEquine neuroaxonal dystrophy/equine degenerative myeloencephalopathy (eNAD/EDM) is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder associated with vitamin E deficiency. In humans, polymorphisms in genes involved in vitamin E uptake and distribution determines individual vitamin E requirements.Hypothesis/objectivesGenetic polymorphisms in genes involved in vitamin E metabolism would be associated with an increased risk of eNAD/EDM in Quarter Horses (QHs).AnimalsWhole-genome sequencing: eNAD/EDM affected (n = 9, postmortem [PM]-confirmed) and control (n = 32) QHs.ValidationeNAD/EDM affected (n = 39, 23-PM confirmed) and control (n = 68, 7-PM confirmed) QHs. Allele frequency (AF): Publicly available data from 504 horses across 47 breeds.MethodsRetrospective, case control study. Whole-genome sequencing was performed and genetic variants identified within 28 vitamin E candidate genes. These variants were subsequently genotyped in the validation cohort.ResultsThirty-nine confirmed variants in 15 vitamin E candidate genes were significantly associated with eNAD/EDM (P

African animal trypanosomiasis (AAT) is one of the major constraints to animal health and production in sub-Saharan Africa. To inform AAT control in Uganda and help advance along the progressive control pathway (PCP), we characterized AAT prevalence among eight host species in Uganda and explored factors that influence the prevalence variation between studies. We retrieved AAT prevalence publications (n = 2232) for Uganda (1980-2022) from five life sciences databases, focusing on studies specifying AAT detection methods, sample size, and the number of trypanosome-positive animals. Following PRISMA guidelines, we included 56 publications, and evaluated publication bias by the Luis Furuya-Kanamori (LFK) index. National AAT prevalence under DNA diagnostic methods for cattle, sheep and goats was 22.15%, 8.51% and 13.88%, respectively. Under DNA diagnostic methods, T. vivax was the most common Trypanosoma sp. in cattle (6.15%, 95% CI: 2.91-10.45) while T. brucei was most common among small ruminants (goats: 8.78%, 95% CI: 1.90-19.88, and sheep: 8.23%, 95% CI: 4.74-12.50, respectively). Northern and Eastern regions accounted for the highest AAT prevalence. Despite the limitations of this study (i.e., quality of reviewed studies, underrepresentation of districts/regions), we provide insights that could be used for better control of AAT in Uganda and identify knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to support the progressive control of AAT at country level and other regional endemic countries with similar AAT eco-epidemiology.

ObjectiveFeline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) remains a disease with little therapeutic advancement. Rapamycin modulates the mTOR pathway, preventing and reversing cardiac hypertrophy in rodent disease models. Its use in human renal allograft patients is associated with reduced cardiac wall thickness. We sought to evaluate the effects of once-weekly delayed-release (DR) rapamycin over 6 months on echocardiographic, biochemical, and biomarker responses in cats with subclinical, nonobstructive HCM.Animals43 client-owned cats with subclinical HCM.MethodsCats enrolled in this double-blinded, multicentered, randomized, and placebo-controlled clinical trial were allocated to low- or high-dose DR rapamycin or placebo. Cats underwent physical examination, quality-of-life assessment, blood pressure, hematology, biochemistry, total T4, urinalysis, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, and cardiac troponin I at baseline and days 60, 120, and 180. Fructosamine was analyzed at screening and day 180. Echocardiograms were performed at all time points excluding day 120. Outcome variables were compared using a repeated measures ANCOVA.ResultsNo demographic, echocardiographic, or clinicopathologic values were significantly different between study groups at baseline, confirming successful randomization. At day 180, the primary study outcome variable, maximum LV myocardial wall thickness at any location, was significantly lower in the low-dose DR rapamycin group compared to placebo (P = .01). Oral DR rapamycin was well tolerated with no significant differences in adverse events between groups.Clinical relevanceResults demonstrate that DR rapamycin was well tolerated and may prevent or delay progressive LV hypertrophy in cats with subclinical HCM. Additional studies are warranted to confirm and further characterize these results.