Comparative analysis of ocular biometry, ocular protrusion, and palpebral fissure dimensions in brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic dog breeds.

This study compared skull morphology and ocular parameters in brachycephalic (BC, n = 16) and nonbrachycephalic (NB, n = 16) dogs using head CT scans. The results of a Schirmer tear test I (STT I), intraocular pressure (IOP), ocular biometry, external structure, ocular protrusion, and palpebral fissure dimensions were evaluated and compared between BC and NB dogs. There were no statistically significant differences in the STT I results, IOP, globe dimensions, globe volume, internal structure, and external structure between BC and NB dogs (P > .05). Brachycephalic dogs exhibited significantly greater ocular protrusion and significantly larger palpebral fissure dimensions compared with NB dogs. For all dogs, we found a strong positive correlation between globe volume and body weight (r = 0.836, P = .0000). The globe volumes, external structure parameters, and ocular protrusion were normalized by body weight and were also significantly larger in BC dogs compared with NB dogs (P < .001). The ocular protrusion (r = 0.521, P < .0000) and horizontal palpebral fissure (r = 0.372, P = .0024) showed a moderate positive correlation with the cephalic index (CI). Additionally, normalized globe volume (r = 0.435, P = .0003), normalized orbital depth (r = 0.419, P = .0005), and normalized retrobulbar depth (r = 0.444, P = .0002) had a moderate positive correlation with the CI. The study emphasizes how the distinctive skull structure of BC dogs, with shortened facial bones and thickened retrobulbar soft tissue, influences their ocular appearance and raises the risk of eye problems.

H2O2 Mediates VEGF- and Flow-Induced Dilations of Coronary Arterioles in Early Type 1 Diabetes: Role of Vascular Arginase and PI3K-Linked eNOS Uncoupling.

In diabetes, the enzyme arginase is upregulated, which may compete with endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) for their common substrate L-arginine and compromise NO-mediated vasodilation. However, this eNOS uncoupling can lead to superoxide production and possibly vasodilator hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) formation to compensate for NO deficiency. This hypothesis was tested in coronary arterioles isolated from pigs with 2-week diabetes after streptozocin injection. The NO-mediated vasodilation induced by flow and VEGF was abolished by NOS inhibitor L-NAME and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor wortmannin but was not affected by arginase inhibitor Nω-hydroxy-nor-L-arginine (nor-NOHA) or H2O2 scavenger catalase in control pigs. With diabetes, this vasodilation was partially blunted, and the remaining vasodilation was abolished by catalase and wortmannin. Administration of L-arginine or nor-NOHA restored flow-induced vasodilation in an L-NAME sensitive manner. Diabetes did not alter vascular superoxide dismutase 1, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase mRNA levels. This study demonstrates that endothelium-dependent NO-mediated coronary arteriolar dilation is partially compromised in early type 1 diabetes by reducing eNOS substrate L-arginine via arginase activation. It appears that upregulated arginase contributes to endothelial NO deficiency in early diabetes, but production of H2O2 during PI3K-linked eNOS uncoupling likely compensates for and masks this disturbance.

Prevalence of toxoplasmosis in semi-domesticated and pet cats within and around Bangkok, Thailand.

BACKGROUND: Toxoplasmosis is one of the most common parasitic zoonoses worldwide. Cats become infected after ingesting infected tissue cysts. The objective of the present study was to compare the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in pet cats and semi-domesticated cats in the Bangkok metropolitan region. A survey of Toxoplasma infection was conducted in 260 cats (median age [range]: 3 years [10 months-10 years]; 155 females and 105 males) by collecting blood samples from 130 client-owned pet cats and 130 semi-domesticated cats within and around Bangkok during 2016-2017 using indirect fluorescence antibody tests. An IgG antibody to Toxoplasma antigen ratio of ≥1:100 was considered positive for Toxoplasma infection. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of T. gondii in cats was 6.5% (17/260). The prevalence of T. gondii in semi-domesticated cats and pet cats was 11.5 and 1.5%, respectively. Semi-domesticated cats aged 1-5 years (14.9%) had a higher prevalence of infection than domesticated cats (1.3%, p = 0.002) of the same age. The odds (95% confidence interval [CI]) of having T. gondii infection in semi-domesticated cats were 8.34 (1.86-76.29, p = 0.0017) times higher than in pet cats. Interestingly, there was an association between T. gondii infection according to city ​region (p = 0.002). The odds (95% CI) of having T. gondii infection in cats living in the inner city were 4.96 (1.03-47.16, p = 0.023) times higher than cats living in the suburb and the vicinity. CONCLUSIONS: The present study identified a higher prevalence of Toxoplasma infection in semi-domesticated cats compared with pet cats. The semi-domesticated cats could serve as a zoonotic reservoir. Public health regulations should be implemented to prevent toxoplasmosis spread.

Prevalence and in vitro antifungal susceptibility of commensal yeasts in the external ear canal of cats.

BACKGROUND: Lifestyle factors such as hair length, the frequency of ear cleaning and bathing, age, cat rearing, and sex may contribute to opportunistic yeast infections in the external ear canal of cats. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of commensal yeast organisms in cats' external ear canals, evaluate their predisposing lifestyle factors, and test the susceptibility of Malassezia pachydermatis to antifungal agents. RESULTS: A total of 53 cats (33 male and 20 female) seronegative for feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus were enrolled in this study. Their mean age (± standard deviation) was 6.04 (± 3.49) years. Fungal cultures and polymerase chain reaction tests were performed to identify the yeast species derived from the external ear canal. The association between lifestyle factors and the presence of M. pachydermatis was evaluated using Fisher's exact test. The susceptibility of M. pachydermatis to antifungal agents was also analyzed. M. pachydermatis was the most frequently recovered yeast species, with a prevalence of 50.94 % (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 36.84-64.94 %). There was an association between hair length and a positive culture for M. pachydermatis (p = 0.0001). The odds of a negative culture for M. pachydermatis among short-haired cats was 11.67 (95 % CI, 3.22-42.24) times higher than that among long-haired cats (p = 0.0002). There was also an association between the frequency of ear cleaning and the presence of M. pachydermatis (p = 0.007). The odds of a negative culture for M. pachydermatis in cats that were receiving ear cleaning at intervals of ≤ 2 weeks was 5.78 (95 % CI, 1.67-19.94) times greater than that of cats receiving ear cleaning at intervals greater than 2 weeks or never (p = 0.0055). Ranges of minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum fungicidal concentrations for itraconazole, ketoconazole, miconazole, and terbinafine against M. pachydermatis were ≤ 0.063-4 and ≤ 0.063-≥32, ≤ 0.063-8 and 0.125-≥32, ≤ 0.063-≥32 and 0.5-≥32, and ≤ 0.016-1 and 0.125-8 µg/ml, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: M. pachydermatis was the most commonly identified yeast organism in the external ear canal of healthy cats. Hair length and the frequency of ear cleaning played a role in the colonization of M. pachydermatis. The M. pachydermatis isolates had various MIC levels for common fungicides.

Activation of Coronary Arteriolar PKCß2 Impairs Endothelial NO-Mediated Vasodilation: Role of JNK/Rho Kinase Signaling and Xanthine Oxidase Activation.

Protein kinase C (PKC) activation can evoke vasoconstriction and contribute to coronary disease. However, it is unclear whether PKC activation, without activating the contractile machinery, can lead to coronary arteriolar dysfunction. The vasoconstriction induced by the PKC activator phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu) was examined in isolated porcine coronary arterioles. The PDBu-evoked vasoconstriction was sensitive to a broad-spectrum PKC inhibitor but not affected by inhibiting PKCß2 or Rho kinase. After exposure of the vessels to a sub-vasomotor concentration of PDBu (1 nmol/L, 60 min), the endothelium-dependent nitric oxide (NO)-mediated dilations in response to serotonin and adenosine were compromised but the dilation induced by the NO donor sodium nitroprusside was unaltered. PDBu elevated superoxide production, which was blocked by the superoxide scavenger Tempol. The impaired NO-mediated vasodilations were reversed by Tempol or inhibition of PKCß2, xanthine oxidase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and Rho kinase but were not affected by a hydrogen peroxide scavenger or inhibitors of NAD(P)H oxidase and p38 kinase. The PKCß2 protein was detected in the arteriolar wall and co-localized with endothelial NO synthase. In conclusion, activation of PKCß2 appears to compromise NO-mediated vasodilation via Rho kinase-mediated JNK signaling and superoxide production from xanthine oxidase, independent of the activation of the smooth muscle contractile machinery.

A descriptive study of allergen-specific IgE serological tests for canine atopic dermatitis in Thailand.

BACKGROUND: This study describes the usefulness of allergen-specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) serology (ASIS) for identifying allergens in dogs with atopic dermatitis. ASIS tests were conducted in 23 dogs diagnosed with atopic dermatitis for indoor allergens (yeast and mites), outdoor allergens (grass pollen, weed pollen, and tree pollen), and fleas. The relationship among positive ASIS tests were determined using Pearson's correlation coefficient (r). RESULTS: Of the atopic dogs, 26.09%, 4.35%, and 47.83% had positive ASIS tests for only indoor allergens, only outdoor allergens, and both indoor and outdoor allergens, respectively. The prevalence of positive ASIS tests was highest for mites (69.57%) and did not differ between indoor and outdoor allergens by age, breed, or sex. The prevalence of positive ASIS tests for indoor allergens during the rainy season (84.21%) was significantly higher than during winter (25.00%, P-value = 0.030). The correlation coefficient of the ASIS results among the outdoor allergens indicated a strong correlation between grass and tree pollen (r = 0.840, P-value < 0.01), grass and weed pollen (r = 0.812, P-value < 0.01), and tree and weed pollen (r = 0.714, P-value < 0.01). The correlation coefficient of the ASIS results of D. farinae indicated a strong correlation with A. siro (r = 0.951, P-value < 0.01) and a moderate correlation with B. tropicalis (r = 0.656, P-value < 0.01) and T. putrescentie (r = 0.672, P-value < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: ASIS tests are useful in screening for multiple allergens in dogs with atopic dermatitis. Dust mites are an important source of indoor allergens and may be responsible for a higher titer of IgE antibodies against indoor allergens during the rainy season.

Optimization of a rapid one-step platelet-rich plasma preparation method using syringe centrifugation with and without carprofen.

BACKGROUND: Carprofen and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are widely used in small animal clinical practice. Separation layers have been used during blood centrifugation to increase platelet yield. The objectives of this study were to (1) identify the optimal centrifugation force for the one-step PRP preparation, (2) determine whether there is an advantage to using carprofen in one-step PRP preparation, and (3) compare platelet morphology from one-step PRP preparation with and without carprofen. We hypothesized that injectable carprofen (emulsion formula) could be used successfully as the separation layer in PRP preparation. RESULTS: Samples from 14 healthy dogs were used to determine the optimal centrifugation force using one-step PRP preparation in a disposable syringe without carprofen, with forces set at 300, 500, 700, 900, 1100, 1300, and 1500 xg for 5 min. Optimum centrifugation force, plasma volume, and platelet concentrations of one-step PRP preparation were found and recovered at 900 xg, 1.9 ± 0.28 ml, and 260.50 ± 58.39 X 103 cell/µl, respectively. Samples from 12 healthy dogs were used to determine the optimal force (with forces set at 300, 500, 700, and 900 xg) for 5 min using one-step PRP preparation with carprofen. Optimum centrifugation force, plasma volume, and platelet concentrations for one-step PRP preparation with carprofen were found and recovered at 500 xg, 0.62 ± 0.16 ml and 948.50 ± 261.40 X 103 cell/µl, respectively. One-step PRP preparation with carprofen increased the platelet yield from baseline by 1.76 and 4.95 fold, respectively. Samples from 3 healthy dogs were used to observe platelet morphologies after centrifugation by scanning electron microscopy. Images of platelets on glass slides from both preparation methods revealed pseudopods emerging from the margins of the discoid platelets. CONCLUSIONS: One-step PRP centrifugation both with and without carprofen increased the platelet yield, but using carprofen (emulsion formula) as a separation layer resulted in a higher platelet yield. The clinical usefulness of PRP products from these methods should be further investigated.

Requisite roles of LOX-1, JNK, and arginase in diabetes-induced endothelial vasodilator dysfunction of porcine coronary arterioles.

Diabetes is associated with cardiac inflammation and impaired endothelium-dependent coronary vasodilation, but molecular mechanisms involved in this dysfunction remain unclear. We examined contributions of inflammatory molecules lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1), stress-activated kinases (c-Jun N-terminal kinase [JNK] and p38), arginase, and reactive oxygen species to coronary arteriolar dysfunction in a porcine model of type 1 diabetes. Coronary arterioles were isolated from streptozocin-induced diabetic pigs and control pigs for vasoreactivity and molecular/biochemical studies. Endothelium-dependent nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasodilation to serotonin was diminished after 2 weeks of diabetes, without altering endothelium-independent vasodilation to sodium nitroprusside. Superoxide scavenger TEMPOL, NO precursor L-arginine, arginase inhibitor nor-NOHA, anti-LOX-1 antibody or JNK inhibitors SP600125 and BI-78D3 improved dilation of diabetic vessels to serotonin. However, hydrogen peroxide scavenger catalase, anti-IgG antibody or p38 kinase inhibitor SB203580 had no effect. Combined inhibition of arginase and superoxide levels did not further improve vasodilation. Arginase-I mRNA expression, LOX-1 and JNK protein expression, and superoxide levels were elevated in diabetic arterioles. In conclusion, sequential activation of LOX-1, JNK, and L-arginine consuming enzyme arginase-I in diabetes elicits superoxide-dependent oxidative stress and impairs endothelial NO-mediated dilation in coronary arterioles. Therapeutic targeting of these adverse vascular molecules may improve coronary arteriolar function during diabetes.

Selective activation of lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 mediates C-reactive protein-evoked endothelial vasodilator dysfunction in coronary arterioles.

RATIONALE: Studies in cultured endothelium implicate that lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) or Fcγ receptor II (CD32) contributes to the proatherogenic effects of C-reactive protein (CRP). However, the identity of the receptors linking to deleterious actions of CRP in vasomotor regulation remains unknown. OBJECTIVE: We tested the hypothesis that LOX-1 contributes to adverse effects of CRP on endothelium-dependent vasomotor function in resistance arterioles. METHODS AND RESULTS: Porcine coronary arterioles were isolated for vasoreactivity study, dihydroethidium fluorescence staining of superoxide, immunohistochemical localization of receptors, immunoprecipitation of receptor/CRP interaction, and protein blot. Intraluminal treatment of pressurized arterioles with a pathophysiological level of CRP (7 µg/mL; 60 minutes) attenuated endothelium-dependent nitric oxide-mediated and prostacyclin-mediated dilations to serotonin and arachidonic acid, respectively. LOX-1 and CD32 were detected in the endothelium of arterioles. Blockade of LOX-1 with either pharmacological antagonist κ-carrageenan or anti-LOX-1 antibody prevented the detrimental effect of CRP on vasodilator function, whereas anti-CD32 antibody treatment was ineffective. Denudation of endothelium and blockade of LOX-1 but not CD32 prevented CRP-induced elevation of superoxide in the vessel wall. CRP was coimmunoprecipitated with LOX-1 and CD32 from CRP-treated arterioles. Similarly, LOX-1 and CD32 blockade prevented CRP-induced arteriolar expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, a thrombogenic protein. CONCLUSIONS: CRP elicits endothelium-dependent oxidative stress and compromises nitric oxide-mediated and prostacyclin-mediated vasomotor function via LOX-1 activation. In contrast, both LOX-1 and CD32 mediate plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 upregulation in arterioles by CRP. Thus, activation of LOX-1 and CD32 may contribute to vasomotor dysfunction and proatherogenic actions of CRP, respectively.

Endothelin-1 impairs coronary arteriolar dilation: Role of p38 kinase-mediated superoxide production from NADPH oxidase.

Elevated levels of endothelin-1 (ET-1), a potent vasoactive peptide, are implicated as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases by exerting vasoconstriction. The aim of this study was to address whether ET-1, at sub-vasomotor concentrations, elicits adverse effects on coronary microvascular function. Porcine coronary arterioles (50-100µm) were isolated, cannulated and pressurized without flow for in vitro study. Diameter changes were recorded using a videomicrometer. Arterioles developed basal tone (60±3µm) and dilated to the endothelium-dependent nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasodilators serotonin (1nmol/L to 0.1µmol/L) and adenosine (1nmol/L to 10µmol/L). Treating the vessels with a clinically relevant sub-vasomotor concentration of ET-1 (10pmol/L, 60min) significantly attenuated arteriolar dilations to adenosine and serotonin but not to endothelium-independent vasodilator sodium nitroprusside. The arteriolar wall contains ETA receptors and the adverse effect of ET-1 was prevented by ETA receptor antagonist BQ123, the superoxide scavenger Tempol, the NADPH oxidase inhibitors apocynin and VAS2870, the NOX2-based NADPH oxidase inhibitor gp91 ds-tat, or the p38 kinase inhibitor SB203580. However, ETB receptor antagonist BQ788, H2O2 scavenger catalase, scrambled gp91 ds-tat, or inhibitors of xanthine oxidase (allopurinol), PKC (Gö 6983), Rho kinase (Y27632), and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (SP600125) did not protect the vessel. Immunohistochemical staining showed that ET-1 elicited Tempol-, apocynin- and SB203580-sensitive superoxide productions in the arteriolar wall. Our results indicate that exposure of coronary arterioles to a pathophysiological, sub-vasomotor concentration of ET-1 leads to vascular dysfunction by impairing endothelium-dependent NO-mediated dilation via p38 kinase-mediated production of superoxide from NADPH oxidase following ETA receptor activation.

Effects of continuous intravenous infusion of morphine and morphine-tramadol on the minimum alveolar concentration of sevoflurane and electroencephalographic entropy indices in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of continuous rate infusions (CRIs) of intravenous (IV) morphine and morphine-tramadol on the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of sevoflurane, and on electroencephalographic entropy indices in dogs. DESIGN: Prospective study. ANIMALS: Eight young, healthy German shepherds, weighing 26.3 ± 3.1 kg (mean ± SD). METHODS: Anaesthesia was induced and maintained with sevoflurane. A standard tail-clamp technique was used for MAC determination. Within one anaesthetic period, MAC was first determined during sevoflurane anaesthesia alone (MACB ); then during morphine infusion (MACM ), (loading dose 0.5 mg kg(-1) IM; CRI, 0.2 mg kg(-1 ) hour(-1)) then finally during morphine-tramadol infusion (tramadol loading dose 1.5 mg kg(-1) IV; CRI, 2.6 mg kg(-1)  hour(-1) ) (MACMT ). At each change, periods of 45 minutes were allowed for equilibration. Stated entropy (SE), response entropy (RE), and RE-SE differences were measured five minutes prior to and during tail clamping. RESULTS: The MACB was 2.1 ± 0.3vol%. The morphine and morphine-tramadol infusions reduced MAC to 1.6 ± 0.3vol% and 1.3 ± 0.3vol%, respectively. MAC was decreased below baseline more during morphine-tramadol than during morphine alone (39 ± 9% versus 25 ± 6%, respectively; p = 0.003). All SE and RE and most RE-SE differences were increased significantly (p < 0.05) over pre-stimulation in all groups when the dogs responded purposefully to noxious stimulation. When no response to noxious stimulation occurred, the entropy indices did not change. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In dogs, combined morphine-tramadol CRI decreased sevoflurane MAC more than morphine CRI alone. Entropy indices changed during nociceptive responses in anaesthetized animals, suggesting that entropy measurements may be useful in determining anaesthetic depth in dogs.

Abdominal obesity is associated with heart disease in dogs.

BACKGROUND: The relationship between overall obesity and fat distribution in dogs and the development of heart disease is unclear. In the present study we evaluated the association between overall obesity and fat distribution and clinical heart disease by morphometric and computed tomography (CT)-based measurements. Body condition score (BCS), modified body mass index (MBMI, kg/m2), waist-to-hock-to-stifle distance ratio (WHSDR), waist-to-ilium wing distance ratio (WIWDR), and waist-to-truncal length ratio (WTLR) were compared between dogs with (n = 44) and without (n = 43) heart disease using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Intra-abdominal fat (IAF) and subcutaneous fat (SQF) were measured in dogs with (n = 8) and without (n = 9) heart disease at the center of the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae by CT. RESULTS: BCS was similar between heart disease and healthy groups (3.6 ± 0.2 vs. 3.3 ± 0.1, P = 0.126). The following morphometric measurements were greater in the heart disease group compared with healthy canines: MBMI (65.0 ± 4.5 vs. 52.5 ± 3.7 kg/m2, respectively, P = 0.035); WIWDR (4.1 ± 0.1 vs. 3.1 ± 0.1, P < 0.01); and WTLR (1.25 ± 0.04 vs. 1.05 ± 0.04, P < 0.01). However, there was no significant difference in WHSDR (3.6 ± 0.1 vs. 3.7 ± 0.2, P = 0.875). Interestingly, IAF was significantly increased in dogs with heart disease compared with healthy dogs (23.5 ± 1.5% vs. 19.4 ± 1.2%, P = 0.039) whereas SQF was similar between two groups (35.5 ± 2.7% vs. 38.6 ± 3.5%, P = 0.496). Of the five morphometric indices studied, WIWDR and WTLR provided acceptable discrimination for diagnosing heart disease in dogs, with areas under the ROC curve of 0.778 (95% confidence interval [CI]:0.683-0.874) and 0.727 (95% CI:0.619-0.835), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicate that abdominal obesity, rather than overall obesity, is associated with heart disease in dogs. Measurements of both WIWDR and WTLR are particular useful for detection of an abdominal obesity in dogs.

Comparative study of ventilation techniques with supraglottic airway devices in cats: volume-controlled vs pressure-controlled techniques.

OBJECTIVES: This study compared the effectiveness of a new supraglottic airway device (SGAD) in cats undergoing anaesthesia using two types of mechanical ventilation: volume-controlled ventilation (VCV) and pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV). METHODS: A total of 13 healthy cats (five male, eight female; median age 2 years [range 1-3]) were randomly allocated to either VCV or PCV. Five tidal volumes (6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 ml/kg) and five peak inspiratory pressures (4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 cmH2O) were randomly applied with a minute ventilation of 100 ml/kg/min. Various parameters, such as blood pressure, gas leakage, end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2) and work of breathing (WOB), were measured while using VCV or PCV. RESULTS: The occurrence of hypotension (mean arterial blood pressure <60 mmHg) was slightly less frequent with VCV (38 events, 65 ventilating sessions) than with PCV (40 events, 65 ventilating sessions), but this difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.429). The number of leakages did not differ between the VCV group (3 events, 65 ventilating sessions) and the PCV group (3 events, 65 ventilating sessions) (P = 1.000). Hypercapnia was identified when using VCV (10 events, 65 ventilating sessions) less frequently than when using PCV (17 events, 65 ventilating sessions), but this difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.194). The study found a significantly higher WOB in the PCV group compared with the VCV group (P <0.034). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The present results suggested that both VCV and PCV can be used with an SGAD during anaesthesia, with VCV preferred for prolonged mechanical ventilation due to its lower workload. Adjusting tidal volume or inspiratory pressure corrects hypercapnia.

Comparative analysis of the distribution and antifungal susceptibility of yeast species in cat facial hair and human nails.

Zoonotic yeast species have been implicated in disease development in both humans and cats. This study analyzed the yeast mycobiota present in feline facial hair and human nails and explored potential interspecies associations. A total of 118 biological specimens were examined, including 59 feline facial hair and 59 human nail samples. DNA extraction and DNA sequencing were performed to identify the specific yeast species. The most predominant yeast species in humans and cats were selected for antifungal susceptibility testing (itraconazole, ketoconazole, miconazole, and terbinafine). The findings unveiled diverse yeast species in cats and humans. Malassezia pachydermatis (45.8%) and Malassezia furfur (30.5%) were the most common yeast species in cats and humans, respectively. However, no significant correlation was detected between the yeast species identified in cats and their owners residing in the same household (p > 0.05). Miconazole exhibited the highest minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against Malassezia pachydermatis and Malassezia furfur in both cat and human isolates, whereas terbinafine showed the lowest MICs against most Malassezia pachydermatis and Malassezia furfur in both cat and human isolates. Diverse yeast species in cat facial hair and human nails suggest possible cross-contamination among humans, pets, and environments.

Seroprevalence of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in Cats during Five Waves of COVID-19 Epidemic in Thailand and Correlation with Human Outbreaks.

Human-to-animal SARS-CoV-2 transmission was observed, including a veterinarian contracting COVID-19 through close contact with an infected cat, suggesting an atypical zoonotic transmission. This study investigated the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in cats during human outbreaks and elucidated the correlation between cat infections and human epidemics. A total of 1107 cat serum samples were collected and screened for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies using a modified indirect ELISA human SARS-CoV-2 antibody detection kit. The samples were confirmed using a cPass™ neutralization test. The SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity rate was 22.67% (199/878), mirroring the trend observed in concomitant human case numbers. The waves of the epidemic and the provinces did not significantly impact ELISA-positive cats. Notably, Chon Buri exhibited a strong positive correlation (r = 0.99, p = 0.009) between positive cat sera and reported human case numbers. Additionally, the cPass™ neutralization test revealed a 3.99% (35/878) seropositivity rate. There were significant differences in numbers and proportions of positive cat sera between epidemic waves. In Samut Sakhon, a positive correlation (r = 1, p = 0.042) was noted between the proportion of positive cat sera and human prevalence. The findings emphasize the need for ongoing surveillance to comprehend SARS-CoV-2 dynamics in both human and feline populations.

Association of Encephalitozoon cuniculi with Clinical Signs and Abnormal Hematologic/Biochemical Changes in Pet Rabbits in Thailand.

Encephalitozoon cuniculi can cause serious disease and subclinical infection in rabbits and requires active surveillance to control the infection. This study investigated the association between anti-Encephalitozoon cuniculi antibody status and various health parameters in pet rabbits. A total of 90 rabbits were divided into healthy (N = 30), subclinical (N = 30), and clinical (N = 30) groups based on their anti-Encephalitozoon cuniculi antibody status and clinical presentations. The mean ages of the control (37 ± 40 months) and subclinical groups (38 ± 34 months) were notably lower compared to that of the clinical group (63 ± 38 months, p < 0.01). Serum titers for anti-Encephalitozoon cuniculi antibodies were significantly elevated in rabbits with subclinical and clinical infections compared to those of healthy rabbits (p < 0.05). Neurological signs were predominant in rabbits with active E. cuniculi infection (80.0%), with additional pathological features including urinary dysfunction (10.0%) and cataracts (10.0%). The source of rabbits was not associated with E. cuniculi infection (p = 0.159). Anemia was significantly linked to E. cuniculi infection (p = 0.026); however, no significant associations were found with leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, or serum biochemistry parameters. Mature adult rabbits were more likely to be infected with E. cuniculi. Recognizing anemia and neurological signs facilitates in early diagnosis of E. cuniculi infection.

Intranasal dexmedetomidine with morphine or tramadol: A comparative study of effects on alfaxalone requirements for anesthesia in cats.

Background and Aim: Intranasal (IN) sedatives provide a non-invasive route for premedication drug administration. This study compared the cardiorespiratory and sparing effects of IN dexmedetomidine combined with morphine (DM) or tramadol (DT) on alfaxalone requirements for anesthesia induction in cats. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four cats were randomly assigned to three groups: Dexmedetomidine combined morphine (IN dexmedetomidine 20 µg/kg plus 0.2 mg/kg morphine), DT (IN dexmedetomidine 20 µg/kg plus 1 mg/kg tramadol), or control (no premedication). The intravenous dose of 1% alfaxalone for endotracheal intubation was recorded with sedation scores, cardiorespiratory parameters (heart rate and respiration rate), and side effects. Results: Both DM and DT were associated with significantly higher sedation scores than baseline, and sedation scores were found to be highest 20 min after premedication. Sedation scores were comparable between DM and DT groups. Side effects, including hypersalivation, vomiting, and pupillary dilation, were observed in the DM and DT groups. The dosage of alfaxalone required in the DM group (1.5 ± 0.3 mg/kg) was comparable to that of the DT group (2.0 ± 0.6 mg/kg, p = 0.0861), and both groups required significantly less alfaxalone than the control group (3.0 ± 0.6 mg/kg; p < 0.01). Heart and respiratory rates were comparable between the DM and DT groups. Duration of anesthesia in the control group (11 ± 4 min) was significantly shorter than in the DM (29 ± 5 min, p = 0.0016) and DT (38 ± 14 min, p < 0.001) groups. Conclusion: Intranasal administration of DM or DT produces good sedation and offers an alternative, non-invasive route for cats undergoing general anesthesia.

Characteristics of canine oral tumors: Insights into prevalence, types, and lesion distribution.

Objective: The escalating prevalence of canine oral tumors has emerged as a considerable health concern. This study examined the prevalence, types, and distributions of lesions linked to canine oral tumors. Material and Methods: The medical records of 526 dogs diagnosed with oral tumors were analyzed to determine the prevalence, types, and distributions. Tumor stages were classified into four categories using the tumor node metastasis system. Results: Among the 526 dogs, there were 118 cases of benign tumors and 408 cases of malignant tumors. Acanthomatous ameloblastoma was the most common benign tumor (43.22%), while melanoma was the most common malignant tumor (51.23%). The gingiva was the most common site for both benign and malignant lesions, accounting for 89.83% and 63.73% of cases, respectively. Melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and fibrosarcoma were primarily located in the gingiva, whereas osteosarcoma was commonly found in the mandible. Most tumors were classified as stage III (ranging from 46.84% to 74.58%). Of the reported cases, 56.08% were males and 43.92% were females, and the most common breed was mixed at 30.41%, followed by Poodle at 14.25% and Shih Tzu at 11.40%. Moreover, patients with malignant oral tumors (11.6 ± 3.1 years) were significantly older than those with benign tumors (8.9 ± 3.4 years, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Gingiva was the primary site for oral tumors, and mainly classified as stage III. These findings emphasize the increasing occurrence of oral tumors in senior and geriatric dogs and provide insights into the prevalent types and distribution.

A retrospective study of structural brain lesions identified by magnetic resonance imaging in 114 cats with neurological signs.

Background and Aim: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been widely used as a non-invasive modality to evaluate neurological organ structures. However, brain MRI studies in cats with neurological signs are limited. This study evaluated the association between patient characteristics, neurological signs, and brain lesion locations identified by MRI. Blood profiles of cats with presumptive inflammatory and structural brain lesions were also determined. Materials and Methods: Medical records of 114 cats that underwent brain MRI were retrospectively reviewed. Cats were categorized into five groups based on the location of their lesion: Cerebrum, brainstem, cerebellum, multifocal, and non-structural. Patient characteristics, neurological signs, and hematological profiles were obtained from their medical records. Disease classification was categorized based on their etiologies. Associations were determined using Fisher's exact test. Blood parameters were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: A total of 114 cats met the inclusion criteria. Lesions were identified in the cerebrum (21.1%), brainstem (8.8%), cerebellum (6.1%), multifocal (39.5%), and non-structural (24.6%) of the cats. Common neurological signs included seizure activity (56.1%), cerebellar signs (41.2%), and anisocoria (25.4%). The most common brain abnormality was inflammation (40.4%). There was no significant difference in hematological profiles between cats with presumptive inflammatory and non-inflammatory brain lesions. Neutrophils, platelets, total protein, and globulin concentrations were higher in cats with structural brain lesions. Conclusion: The most common neurological signs and brain disease category were seizure activity and inflammation, respectively. However, the hematological profile did not predict inflammatory and structural brain lesions.

Bacterial DNA and osteoarthritis in dogs with patellar luxation and cranial cruciate ligament rupture.

Background and Aim: The association between bacterial DNA in stifle joints, including those with cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR) and medial patellar luxation (MPL), and osteoarthritis in dogs remains elusive. This study investigated the potential association between the detection of bacterial DNA and osteoarthritis in dogs using a broad-range polymerase chain reaction technique targeting the 16S ribosomal RNA gene. Materials and Methods: Synovial fluid (35 samples) and knee tissue samples (32 samples) were obtained from 35 dogs diagnosed with CCLR (n = 20; 11 males and nine females) or MPL (n = 15; five males and 10 females) who underwent a surgical operation between October 2014 and April 2015. Results: Dogs with CCLR had a higher average osteoarthritis score than those with MPL (2.0 ± 0.9 vs. 0.5 ± 0.9; p = 0.005). Bacterial DNA was detected in the stifle joints of 60.71% of dogs with MPL. Pelomonas spp. (25.00%), Halomonas spp. (17.86%), and 5 other species (17.86%) were the most frequently identified bacteria. Bacterial DNA was detected in 41.03% of dogs with CCLR. Pelomonas spp. (15.38%), Sphingomonas spp. (10.26%), Halomonas spp. (5.13%), and 4 other species (10.26%) were the most frequently identified bacteria. No significant difference was observed in the prevalence of bacterial DNA obtained from tissue samples (46.88%) or joint fluid samples (51.43%). The presence of bacterial DNA was not associated with the type of knee injury (MPL or CCLR; p = 1.000). There was a higher prevalence of bacterial DNA in samples from dogs with moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis (94.44%) than in those with minimal osteoarthritis (41.18%), and a significant association between the presence of bacterial DNA and moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis was identified (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Dogs with moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis were more likely to have bacterial DNA in their stifle joints than those with no or minimal osteoarthritis. These findings provide valuable insight into the potential role of bacterial DNA in joint tissue or joint fluid and the development of osteoarthritis in dogs.