The fecal bacterial microbiota is not useful for discriminating between lymphoplasmacytic enteritis and low-grade intestinal T-cell lymphoma in cats nor for predicting therapeutic response.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the fecal bacterial microbiota at the time of diagnosis (T0) and after 1 month of therapy (T1) in cats diagnosed with lymphoplasmacytic enteritis (LPE) or cats with low-grade intestinal T-cell lymphoma (LGITL) and to compare these findings with those of healthy cats. ANIMALS: 5 healthy cats, 13 cats with LPE, and 7 cats with LGITL were prospectively enrolled between June 2020 and June 2021. METHODS: Fecal samples were collected at T0 and T1, and DNA was extracted for 16S ribosomal amplicon sequencing. Alpha diversity and beta diversity were computed. The taxonomic assignment was performed using sequences from the Silva v138 formatted reference database. Differential abundant taxa were selected in each taxonomic level, with the P value adjusted < .05, as the cut-off. RESULTS: No significant differences in alpha and beta diversity were found either at T0 or T1 between healthy and diseased cats or between cats with LPE and LGITL. Beta-diversity analysis showed an increase in the Fusobacteriaceae family in cats with LGITL at T0, compared to cats with LPE. Regardless of histological diagnosis, several microbiota differences were found at T0 based on serum cobalamin levels. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Fecal samples were successfully used to characterize the bacteriome of the intestinal tract in cats by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. However, results highlighted that the metagenomic evaluation was not useful to discriminate between LPE and LGITL nor to predict the therapeutic response in this study population.

Using ultrasonography for verifying feeding tube placements in cats.

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the use of ultrasonography for verifying feeding tube placement in hospitalized cats compared with radiographic evaluation. Methods: This prospective investigation was performed on client-owned cats. The position of the feeding tube was checked using right lateral thoracic radiography and ultrasonography. Ultrasound examinations were performed using a high-frequency linear transducer and a microconvex transducer. The examination was performed in three steps: transverse and longitudinal planes of the left side of the animal's neck to identify the feeding tube in the esophagus, and a longitudinal angled plane of the epigastrium to identify the tube at the lower esophageal sphincter. Results: A total of 25 cats were included in this study. Assessing the correct positioning of the feeding tubes using a right lateral thoracic radiograph revealed that the tube was in the distal esophagus in 12/25 cats and reached the stomach in 13/25 cases. Discussion: In all cats, both ultrasonography and right lateral chest radiography identified the feeding tube at the esophageal level. For stomach, ultrasonography demonstrated good values of diagnostic performance compared to radiography, with excellent reliability and validity in terms of sensitivity and predictive value. Ultrasonography is a valid tool for confirming tube placement in the esophagus and is almost as efficient as radiology.

[Medical electroradiology technicians: mediators in hospital care]. / Les manipulateurs et manipulatrices en électroradiologie médicale : médiateurs du soin à l'hôpital.

Beyond simply carrying out the medical imaging procedure, radiology technicians have an ambivalent position in radiology departments: working both with the patient and with the doctor, they act as a link between these two entities which rarely, if ever, meet. This socioprofessional category is a keystone to medical imaging services, yet it receives little recognition and its crucial role is often overlooked. The exact delimitation of its functions within the hospital is often misunderstood.

How does staff and patient feedback on hospital quality relate to mortality outcomes? A provider-level national study.

This study aimed to use national data to examine the relationship between staff and inpatient survey results (National Health Service (NHS) Friends and Family Test (FFT)) and assess how these align with more traditional measurements of hospital quality as captured by the summary hospital mortality indicator (SHMI). Provider level FFT responses were obtained for 128 English non-specialist acute providers for staff and inpatients between April 2016 and March 2019. Multilevel linear regression models assessed the relationship between staff and patient FFT recommendations, and separately how SHMI related to each of staff and patient FFT recommendations. A total of 1,536 observations were recorded across all providers and financial quarters. Patients were more likely to recommend their provider (95.5%) than staff (76.8%). In multivariable regression, a statistically significant association was observed between staff and patient FFT recommendations. A statistically significant negative relationship was also observed between staff FFT recommendations and SHMI. The association between SHMI and staff FFT recommendations suggests that staff feedback tools may provide a useful analogue for providers in potential need of intervention and improvement in care. For patients meanwhile, qualitative approaches and hospital organisations working in partnership with patients may provide better opportunities for patients to drive improvement.

Comparative Evaluation of Peripheral Blood Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio, Serum Albumin to Globulin Ratio and Serum C-Reactive Protein to Albumin Ratio in Dogs with Inflammatory Protein-Losing Enteropathy and Healthy Dogs.

Few routinely available biomarkers are clinically useful in assessing dogs with inflammatory protein-losing enteropathy caused by immunosuppressive-responsive enteropathy (IRE-PLE). Only the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been studied, while no information exists on the use of the albumin to globulin ratio (AGR) and C-reactive protein to albumin ratio (CRP/ALB). We aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of the NLR, AGR and CRP/ALB in a population of dogs with IRE-PLE. The medical records of 53 IRE-PLE dogs were reviewed at the time of diagnosis (T0) and 1 month after the initiation of immunosuppressants (T1). A control group of 68 healthy dogs was used for comparison. At T0, the median values of the NLR and AGR of sick dogs were significantly higher and lower than those of healthy dogs, respectively. With the increase in the chronic enteropathy activity index, AGR and CRP/ALB significantly decreased and increased, respectively. At T1, NLR and AGR significantly increased, while CRP/ALB significantly decreased. NLR, AGR and CRP/ALB did not differ significantly between dogs classified as responders and nonresponders according to the chronic enteropathy activity index. Further studies are needed to provide more information on this subject.

Adjusting for comorbidity in observational cancer studies: A systematic review to assess alignment between index and study.

Epidemiological and retrospective clinical studies on cancer outcomes frequently adjust for patients' comorbid conditions. Despite the existence of multiple comorbidity indices, the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) is the most frequently applied. Indices are developed in specific settings and the extent of alignment between the development setting and subsequent study is unclear. The present study provides a contemporaneous snapshot of comorbidity indices used in retrospective observational cancer studies and the extent to which cancer type(s), data source(s) and outcome(s) matched the studies in which the indices were developed. A systematic literature search in PubMed identified retrospective, observational studies on outcomes in patients with cancer published between March 2015 and March 2020. Information including the cancer type, data source and outcome were extracted and compared to those used in the validation study of the comorbidity index used. Of 158 papers reviewed, 79 used the CCI, either alone or in combination with other indices. The cancer type matched to that used in the validation study of the comorbidity index in 16 of the 115 studies using an established index, whilst the data source matched in 27 studies and outcome in only two. Justification was rarely provided for index choice (15 of the 115 studies). It may be concluded that, while the CCI remains the dominant comorbidity index, it may not always align to key elements of the study design in terms of cancer type, data source and outcome. A range of indices exists and identification of the most appropriate measure has the potential to improve adjustment for comorbidity. The present study provided information about the indices used in included studies and encourages future studies to consider which comorbidity index offers the best alignment with the study population, data source and question addressed.

Evaluation of Haemostasis in Dogs Affected by Resectable Malignancy.

Dogs with neoplasm are at risk of thrombosis, yet there is no information on the haemostatic alterations that may result from the surgeries performed to remove neoplastic masses. The aim of this study was to observe the characteristics of haemostasis in dogs undergoing surgery to remove a malignancy by means of rotational thromboelastometry and thrombin generation. Haemostasis was assessed immediately before surgery (T0), 24 h after surgery (T1), and two weeks after surgery (T2). Statistically significant differences were found between the thromboelastometric parameters at T0 vs. T1, with increases observed in MCF, the α angle, and G parameters in the ex-TEM and in-TEM profiles. In the thromboelastometric analysis performed after surgery differences were identified between T1 and T2, with a decrease observed in parameters such as CFT, MCF, the α angle, and G. Between T0 and T2, only a significant decrease in CT was detected in the fib-TEM profile. No differences were found in the comparison among the results obtained via thrombin generation. In dogs with resectable malignancies, the surgeries performed to remove cancer affected coagulation, causing a tendency towards hypercoagulability. The interference with coagulation was transient, and 2 weeks after surgery, the thromboelatometric results returned to those obtained before surgery (T0).

Assessment of hemostasis in dogs with gastric-dilation-volvulus, during resuscitation with hydroxyethyl starch (130/0.4) or hypertonic saline (7.5%).

OBJECTIVE: To compare the impact of an IV bolus of hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 (HES) or hypertonic saline 7.5% (HS) on hemostasis in dogs resuscitated for gastric-dilation-volvulus (GDV). DESIGN: Open-label, parallel-group randomized clinical trial. ANIMALS: Twenty-three client-owned dogs. INTERVENTIONS: Dogs affected by GDV and shock were randomly assigned to receive HES at 10 mL/kg or HS at 4 mL/kg every 15 minutes. Blood samples were collected for blood gas analysis, PCV, total plasma protein, albumin, standard coagulation profile, and thromboelastometry (ROTEM) at baseline (T0) and at the end of bolus (T1). To assess the differences between the 2 groups at T1, Student's t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used. To evaluate the differences between T0 and T1, ANOVA for paired data or Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-ranks test was used. P < 0.05 was considered significant. MEASUREMENT AND MAIN RESULTS: Hemostasis was evaluated by means of prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, and ROTEM. The study included 13 dogs in the HES group and 10 dogs in the HS group. Differences were found between groups at T1: increase in clotting time (P = 0.018) and decrease in fibrinogen level (P = 0.021) in the HS-treated group. Between T0 and T1, there were differences for the HES group: increase in clot formation time (P = 0.046), decrease in maximum clot firmness (P = 0.002) in ex-TEM profile, and decrease in maximum clot firmness (P = 0.0117) in fib-TEM profile. Between T0 and T1, the following differences were noted for the HS group: increase in clotting time (P = 0.048) and clot formation time (P = 0.0019), decrease in maximum clot firmness (P = 0.031) and α angle (P = 0.036) in ex-TEM profile, decrease in α angle (P = 0.036) in in-TEM profile, and decrease in maximum clot firmness (P = 0.017) in fib-TEM profile. CONCLUSION: In dogs affected by GDV, HES or HS infusion caused a similar tendency toward hypocoagulability, with few differences between the 2 groups.

Stage 1-Biomarkers of Kidney Injury in Dogs Undergoing Constant Rate Infusion of Hydroxyethyl Starch 130/0.4.

In veterinary medicine, investigations relating the effects of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) on renal function report contrasting results. This study aimed to assess the changes in the selected biomarkers of kidney injury in dogs after the administration of HES 130/0.4 as a constant rate infusion (CRI) for 24 h. Ten adult client-owned dogs with hypoalbuminemia (albumin < 2 g/dL) and ongoing fluid losses were included. Enrolled dogs received intravenous fluid therapy with crystalloids and a CRI of HES 130/0.4 at a dose of 2 mL/kg/h for 24 h. Serum creatinine (sCr), fractional excretion (FE) of electrolytes, urinary protein to creatinine ratio (UPC), urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UAC), SDS-page, and urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) were measured at the baseline before HES infusion, and after 24 h (T24) and 48 h (T48) from the baseline. No statistically significant difference was found between the baseline value vs. T24 and the baseline vs. T48 for sCr, UAC, UPC, FE of sodium, chloride and calcium, and uNGAL. A significant increase in FEK (p = 0.04) was noticed between the baseline and T48. In this study sample of hypoalbuminemic dogs, HES 130/0.4 at the dose and rate of infusion applied did not cause any significant changes in the investigated biomarkers of kidney injury.

Alterations of Serum Biochemical and Urinary Parameters in a Canine Population before and after Intravenous Contrast Administration.

Intravenous iodinated contrast (IVIC) medium is routinely administered to dogs. Scattered information exists regarding the serum biochemical or urinary profiles associated with the administration of IVIC in dogs. The aim of the study was to describe, compare, and discuss from the perspective of previous studies the alterations in serum biochemical and urinary parameters before (T0) and within one week (T1) of the IVIC administration during routine computed tomography (CT) scan evaluation of 22 dogs. Mature dogs presenting for CT scan evaluation for preoperative oncology staging/surgical planning were included. T1 evaluation was performed within one week of IVIC administration. Statistically significant differences in serum total protein, albumin, chloride, calcium, and phosphorus concentrations, urine protein to creatinine ratio, and urine specific gravity were found between T1 and T0. At T1, the serum creatinine concentration was within reference ranges in all dogs but one. An increase in the urine protein to creatinine ratio was observed in four samples, one of which was non-proteinuric at T0. Changes in biochemistry and urine parameters between T0 and T1 were not considered clinically significant.

How Ultrasound Can Be Useful for Staging Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs: Ultrasound Findings in 855 Cases.

In patients affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD), some ultrasonographic (US) abnormalities have been shown to correlate better than others with the progression of the disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of the most frequent renal US abnormalities in dogs at different stages of CKD, and to investigate their association with CKD International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) stages. Medical records and ultrasonographical report of 855 dogs were retrospectively included. The most frequent renal ultrasonographic abnormalities were: increased cortical echogenicity, abnormal ratio of cortico-medullary junction (C/M) and pyelectasia. A statistically significant difference in the prevalence of irregular contour, abnormal cortico-medullary junction, abnormal C/M, increased cortical echogenicity, and pyelectasia was found for dogs at different IRIS stages. The number of dogs with more than one US abnormality increased significantly with the progression of IRIS stage. In conclusion, increased cortical echogenicity, abnormal C/M junction and pyelectasia were the most prevalent US abnormalities in our CKD population. Although none of the US abnormalities showed a significantly higher prevalence, the number of dogs presenting > 3 US abnormalities increased significantly from IRIS 2 to IRIS 4. Renal US is an excellent ancillary diagnostic test, which should be used together with renal functional parameters, to monitor the progression of CKD.

Evaluation of the effects of hydroxyethyl starch (130/0.4) administration as a constant rate infusion on plasma colloid osmotic pressure in hypoabluminemic dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of 2 constant rate infusions of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) 130/0.4 on plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP) in hypoalbuminemic dogs. DESIGN: Prospective, randomized clinical trial. ANIMALS: A total of 24 client-owned dogs. INTERVENTIONS: Hypoalbuminemic euvolemic dogs (albumin < 20 g/L [<2 g/dL]) with normal perfusion parameters requiring IV fluid therapy were enrolled. In addition to crystalloid, HES 130/0.4 was administered as a constant rate infusion over 24 hours at 1 mL/kg/h (group 1, n = 15) or at 2 mL/kg/h (group 2, n = 9), in order to support plasma COP. Before infusion, a blood sample was collected to perform CBC, serum electrophoresis, and serologic tests for some infective diseases. Plasma COP, albumin concentration, PCV, and total plasma protein concentration were evaluated serially at baseline (T0) and then at 6, 12, and 24 hours after the start of infusion, and a multilevel model was performed for these parameters to detect statistically significant differences between the 2 groups. MEASUREMENT AND MAIN RESULTS: Twenty-four dogs were included. No statistically significant differences in COP were found between the 2 groups; however, a high level of variability has been identified within the single individual. Among the other laboratory analyses, PCV was significantly decreased in group 1 at T12 and T24 compared with T0 (P < 0.001) and total plasma protein concentration was significantly increased in group 2 at T12 and T24 compared with T0 (P < 0.008). CONCLUSION: No significant effect on plasma COP was found following infusion with HES 130/0.4 at doses of 1 mL/kg/h and 2 mL/kg/h for 24 hours to hypoalbuminemic dogs. The administered concomitant dose of crystalloids, underlying disease, and small sample size were all potential confounding factors.

Multicenter in vitro thromboelastography and thromboelastometry standardization.

OBJECTIVE: To establish and compare the repeatability and reproducibility of activated thromboelastography (TEG) and thromboelastometry (ROTEM) assays. DESIGN: Multicenter in vitro test standardization. SETTING: Veterinary academic centers. ANIMALS: Test samples were obtained from normal, healthy dogs. Sixty identical 5 mL aliquots of canine platelet-rich plasma collected by apheresis, frozen in 6% dimethyl sulfoxide, were tested initially. Sixty identical 6 mL aliquots of canine fresh frozen plasma with admixed cryoprecipitate were subsequently evaluated. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Frozen study samples, quality controls, reagents, and consumables were distributed to participating centers (7 TEG and 3 ROTEM). TEG centers analyzed study samples with kaolin and tissue factor activated assays; ROTEM centers ran proprietary ellagic acid activated and tissue factor activated assays. All machines underwent quality control prior to sample analysis. Within- and between-center coefficients of variation (CVs) were calculated and compared using Mann-Whitney tests and calculation of intraclass correlation coefficients. Within and between centers, individual parameters for both TEG and ROTEM assays were comparable. Both within-center and between-center CVs varied markedly (0.7-120.5% and 1.4-116.5%, respectively) with assay type, instrument, and parameter. CVs for equivalent parameters were not significantly different between the 2 platforms. Intraclass correlation coefficients suggested moderate agreement between centers. In general, individual parameter CVs for platelet-rich plasma samples were lower in TEG centers, while CVs for canine fresh frozen plasma with admixed cryoprecipitate samples were lower in ROTEM centers. CONCLUSIONS: More variation within and between centers was identified than anticipated, but some parameters such as alpha angle were repeatable and reproducible. Sample types for future multicenter standardization efforts will require further optimization and may need to be adapted separately to each platform. Individual centers using viscoelastic tests for evaluation and management of clinical patients should take steps to minimize preanalytical and analytical sources of variation.

Thromboelastometric assessment of hemostasis following hydroxyethyl starch (130/0.4) administration as a constant rate infusion in hypoalbuminemic dogs.

BACKGROUND: The primary aim was to evaluate by means of thromboelastometry (ROTEM) the effects of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) 130/0.4 administered as a constant rate infusion (CRI) on hemostasis in hypoalbuminemic dogs. The second aim was to use ROTEM analysis to detect whether all hypoalbuminemic dogs of our population were hypercoagulable. RESULTS: The study sample was 20 hypoalbuminemic dogs (albumin < 2 g/dl) with normal perfusion parameters and requiring intravenous fluid therapy. In order to support plasma colloid osmotic pressure, in addition to crystalloid, HES 130/0.4 was administered as a constant rate infusion at 1 ml/kg/h (group 1, n = 11) or 2 ml/kg/h for 24 h (group 2, n = 9). Blood samples were collected at baseline (T0) and 24 h postinfusion (T1); coagulation was assessed by standard coagulation profile (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and fibrinogen), and ROTEM analysis (in-TEM®, ex-TEM® and fib- TEM® profile). No statistically significant differences in ROTEM values in group 1 were observed (P > 0.05), whereas in group 2 statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) were found at T1 in the in-TEM® profile [decrease in clot formation time (P = 0.04) and increase in α angle (P = 0.02)] and in the ex-TEM® profile [increase in maximum clot firmness (P = 0.008) and α angle (P = 0.01)]; no changes were identified in the fib-TEM® profile. In both groups, a statistically significant decrease (P = 0.007) in hematocrit was noted, whereas no statistically significant differences in platelet count and standard coagulation profile were found. In group 2, a statistically significant increase in TS values (P = 0.03) was noted at T1. ROTEM tracings indicating a hypercoagulable state were observed in 7/20 dogs at T0 (5/11 in group 1 and 2/9 in the group 2). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that HES 130/0.4 administered as CRI does not cause hypocoagulability in hypoalbuminemic dogs. A trend toward hypercoagulability, probably related to the underlying diseases, was observed in group 2 at T1. Although all dogs were hyoalbuminemic, only 7/20 were hypercoagulable at T0, confirming the lack of correlation between albumin level and prothrombotic state.

Polymorphism Analysis of Ch1 and Ch2 Genes in the Siberian Cat.

Cats are usually spreaders of allergens that are critical for sensitive people; the Siberian cat is a breed supposed to be low level allergenic, according to some breeders' statements. The sequence of the two genes, namely Ch1 and Ch2, that code for the allergen Fel d 1, the major allergen responsible for outbreaks of allergy symptoms, is not yet known in the Siberian cat, and finding this was the aim of our investigation. Notably, our work is the first survey of the genetic structure of these genes in Siberian cats. The comparison of the sequences of Siberian cats, non-Siberian cats, and sequences present in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database revealed a considerable number of mutations; some of those detected in the Siberian cat, due to their position in exon regions, could affect the Fel d 1 allergenic properties. Therefore, further investigations are recommended to assess if the identified mutations can be responsible for a reduced-allergen synthesis and can be used as markers for selection of low level allergenic cats.

Identification of peripheral blood involvement in dogs with large B-cell lymphoma: Comparison of different methods.

Stage V lymphoma is defined as the presence of neoplastic cells in peripheral blood (PB), bone marrow, or any other non-lymphoid tissue. Still, official guidelines do not specify which technique should be used to assess infiltration. We assessed the agreement among flow cytometry (FC), blood smear evaluation, and ADVIA120 (LUC and BASO) to quantify PB infiltration in 100 dogs with large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL). Significant errors were found for all methods compared to FC. A moderate agreement was present between FC and blood smear evaluation, whereas LUC and BASO had excellent specificity but unsatisfactory sensitivity in detecting FC infiltrated PB samples. The different techniques should not be used alternatively. We support the use of LUC/BASO as a speedy preliminary test to detect infiltrated samples, and the joined use of blood smear evaluation and FC to quantify definitively the infiltration. Our results are valid only within canine LBCL staging workup, once the diagnosis has been confirmed.

Thromboelastometric assessment of hemostasis in newborn Piemontese calves.

We investigated possible age-related differences in coagulation profiles in bovine species by means of rotational thromboelastometric (ROTEM) analysis. We evaluated hemostasis by ROTEM in newborn Piemontese calves at birth (T0), 8 d (T8), and 15 d (T15) of age and compared the ROTEM results obtained in 16 newborn calves with 28 adult Piemontese cattle. Hemostasis was evaluated using standard coagulation tests and ROTEM analysis, obtaining in-TEM, ex-TEM, and fib-TEM profiles. Statistically significant differences in the ROTEM profiles of newborn calves were found between T0 and T8 and between T0 and T15 ( p < 0.05) but not between T8 and T15. Differences between ROTEM profiles of calves and adults were statistically significant at T0 ( p < 0.05) but no differences were found at T15 ( p < 0.05). Hence, ROTEM reference intervals for adult cattle can be used to evaluate profiles in Piemontese calves ≥8 d of age.

Thromboelastometric evaluation of hemostasis in dogs infected with Leishmania infantum.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of hemostasis using thromboelastometry in dogs with leishmaniasis before and after treatment. DESIGN: Longitudinal observational study. SETTING: University veterinary teaching hospital. ANIMALS: Eighty-four adult, client-owned dogs. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Whole blood samples for the coagulation profile were collected from symptomatic dogs with leishmaniasis (group S), asymptomatic dogs with leishmaniasis after treatment (group T), and a control group of healthy dogs (group H). Hemostasis was evaluated by means of standard coagulation profile (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and fibrinogen) and by thromboelastometry (ROTEM). Prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time were within the upper reference range in all 3 groups. Comparison of the ROTEM variables between the 3 groups showed statistically significant differences between group S versus groups T and H, but remaining within the reference ranges. Statistically significant differences in hematocrit and fibrinogen concentrations were noted between groups (group S vs. H: hematocrit P = 0.001, fibrinogen P = 0.002; Group S vs. T: hematocrit P = 0.001, fibrinogen P = 0.001). These variations have interfered with some parameters of the ROTEM profile. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed normal standard coagulation profiles in all 3 groups evaluated. The ROTEM results did not fall outside of the maximum values of the reference ranges.

[Benedetto Croce and the Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn]. / [Benedetto Croce e la Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn].

The relationship between the family of Benedetto Croce and that of Anton Dohrn were always characterized by cordiality and mutual respect. Both houses were international meeting places of artists, intellectuals and scientists. The narrowest and most lasting relationship was that between the philosopher and Reinhard Dohrn, from 1909 to 1965 director of the Zoological Station, a long period, marked, among other things, by the two World Wars. Both events caused major problems in the life of the institution. Starting in the twenties, their relationship continued until 1952, the year of Croce's death. In the years immediately following World War I Croce strove, with his prestige and authority, to preserve the Zoological Station's nature as a private entity, directed by Dohrn. As Minister of Education, on 30 September, 1920, he issued a decree-law which repealed that of 26 May, 1918, which had aimed at the 'Italianisation' of the Zoological Station. Croce instead transformed the Station into a "non-profit organization under the supervision of the Ministry of Education". The new decree sparked a lively debate in the Parliament and in the press, between supporters and opponents of the measure. On 9 December, a major discussion took place in the Senate, published in the same year under the title On the Zoological Station in Naples. The discussion revolved around two fundamental political concepts: is it legitimate to take, for reasons of culture, civilization and the law of war, possession of the "the fruit of the talent of others"? is it legitimate "to replace with a state organization'' what had been created as a private activity, and was the result of the enthusiasm and interest of individuals? Croce's victory, however, was not lasting. During the Fascist era, with the decree of 21 October 1923, the Zoological Station was again transformed into an Italian state body.

Assessment of coagulation utilizing thromboelastometry in dogs undergoing orthopedic surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate blood coagulation using thromboelastometry in dogs following orthopedic surgery. DESIGN: Longitudinal observational study. SETTING: University veterinary teaching hospital. ANIMALS: Thirty-four adult client-owned dogs. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Dogs undergoing elective or emergency orthopedic surgery had whole blood collected before (T0), at 24 hours (T1), and 1 week (T2) after surgery. Whole blood from each dog was collected by jugular venipuncture using a 20-Ga needle and minimum venous stasis. The blood was placed into tubes containing 3.8% trisodium citrate (1 part citrate: 9 parts blood) and rested at 37°C. Coagulation was evaluated by means of thromboelastometry using the in-TEM, ex-TEM, and fib-TEM assays. Statistically significant increases (P < 0.05) in maximum clot firmness (MCF) from T0 to T1 in the in-TEM and fib-TEM profiles (both P = 0.0001), from T0 to T2 in the in-TEM, ex-TEM, and fib-TEM profiles (P = 0.012, P = 0.037, and P = 0.0001, respectively), and from T1 to T2 in the fib-TEM profile (P = 0.039) were noted. The α angle increased from T0 to T2 in the in-TEM and ex-TEM profiles (P = 0.019 and P = 0.036, respectively). All results were, however, within the institutional reference ranges. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, unlike the hypercoagulability observed in human orthopedic patients, a hypercoagulable state as measured by thromboelastometry did not develop in dogs following orthopedic surgery.