Effect of pyometra on vascularity alterations, oxidative stress, histopathology and inflammatory molecules in feline.

This study aimed to investigate blood flow, hemodynamical features by Doppler ultrasound, the oxidative stress biomarkers from serum samples, and histopathology from uterine tissue, in healthy queens and queens with pyometra. Twenty queens were categorized into two groups, according to signs, history, and ultrasound findings, as pyometra and control healthy queens. Doppler ultrasonography, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), albumin, bacteriological isolation, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) P65 were performed. Uterine diameter and thickness increased significantly in the pyometra group compared to control. Uterine peak velocity and flow rate were significantly higher in the control group. The pyometra group showed a significant decrease in albumin, TAC, and a significant increase in MDA. Fibrosis and mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltration were seen in the pyometra samples. The mean area percentage of TNF-α expression in the uteri of the pyometra group was higher. The expression of NF-κB P65 in the uteri in the pyometra group was significantly higher. Doppler ultrasonography can provide valuable information for diagnosing pyometra in queens by elevating the uterine thickness with reducing blood flow rate. Oxidative stress, TNF-α, and NF-κB expression alterations varied between pyometra and control groups.

The ameliorative effect of cerium oxide nanoparticles on chlorpyrifos induced hepatotoxicity in a rat model: Biochemical, molecular and immunohistochemical study.

BACKGROUND: Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is a widely used insecticide that causes toxicity to living organisms through the production of free radicals. Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) are a new antioxidant agent that has proved therapeutic effects. We evaluated the effect of CeO2NPs on CPF hepatotoxicity. METHODS: Forty rats were randomized into four groups. Group I: rats received 1 ml corn oil by gastric tube once daily and 0.5 ml PBS by intra-peritoneal injection twice a week for 4 weeks. Group II: received CeO2NPs 0.5 mg/kg in PBS by i.p. injection, twice weekly for four weeks. Group III: were treated with oral administration of CPF 13.5 mg/kg in corn oil daily for 4 weeks. Group IV: received CPF as in group III, then each animal received CeO2NPs twice weekly for four weeks as in group II. Twenty-four hours after the last dose, rats were anesthetized and sera were collected for liver enzymes assessment. Afterwards, rats were sacrificed, livers were excised, the right lobe of each liver was fixed for immunohistochemical studies, and the left lobe was homogenized for oxidative profile assessment and molecular analysis. RESULTS: CPF group showed significant increase in liver transaminases, disturbance of the oxidative profile with up-regulation of BAX expression and down-regulation in the Bcl-2, Gadd45 and NFE2L2. CPF caused severe histopathological liver damage as well as significant increase in anti-Caspase 3 and TNF immunostaining. The CeO2NPs treated group revealed significant improvement of all previous parameters. CONCLUSION: CeO2NPs could alleviate CPF hepatoxicity through decreasing expression of the inflammatory and apoptotic proteins and increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes.

Novel Magnetic Mixed Cellulose Acetate Matrix Membranes with Oxygen-Enrichment Potential.

This work presents novel magnetic mixed cellulose-based matrix membranes that combine the advantages of a low-cost common polymer matrix, such as cellulose acetate (CA), and a low-cost magnetic filler. Moreover, the presented magnetic mixed CA matrix membranes were fabricated and used without applying an external magnetic field during either the membrane casting or the separating process. Poly(methylmethacrylate) and lithium chloride were used in order to improve the mechanical properties and porosity of the fabricated membranes. The iron-nickel magnetic alloys used were prepared through a simple chemical reduction method with unique morphologies (Fe10Ni90-starfish-like and Fe20Ni80-necklace-like). The novel magnetic mixed CA matrix membranes fabricated were characterized using different analysis techniques, including SEM, EDX, XRD, TGA, and FTIR-ATR analyses. Furthermore, the static water contact angle, membrane thickness, surface roughness, tensile strength, and membrane porosity (using ethanol and water) were determined. In addition, vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) analysis was conducted and the oxygen transition rate (OTR) was studied. The magnetic mixed CA matrix membrane containing starfish-like Fe10Ni90 alloy was characterized by high coercivity (109 Oe) and an efficient 1.271 × 10-5 cm3/(m2·s) OTR compared to the blank CA membrane with 19.8 Oe coercivity and no OTR. The effects of the polymeric matrix composition, viscosity, and compatibility with the alloys/fillers used on the structure and performance of the fabricated mixed CA matrix membranes compared to the previously used poly(ethersufone) polymeric matrix are discussed and highlighted. The novel magnetic mixed CA matrix membranes presented have good potential for use in the oxygen-enrichment process.

Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation enhances testicular volume and hemodynamics, reproductive hormones, sperm quality, and seminal antioxidant capacity in goat bucks under summer hot humid conditions.

Oxidative stress (OS) is brought on by heat stress (HS), which weakens antioxidant defense and initiates OS. Since mitochondria are the primary source of reactive oxygen species (ROS), HS-mediated OS may be lessened by targeting mitochondria with particular antioxidants. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of oral coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on the reproductive performance of goat bucks under HS conditions. Ten mature bucks were randomly separated into two groups and housed in an environment with a high-temperature humidity index (THI: 88.3 to 94.8; summer season). The first group (n = 5) got the baseline diet while the second group (n = 5) received supplemental oral CoQ10 (3 mg/kg BW; CoQ10 group) daily for six weeks. Testicular blood flow parameters (TBF), testicular volume (TV) and echogenicity (TE), nitric oxide (NO), seminal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and catalase (CAT) activities, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and semen quality traits were all measured. The examinations started a week before (W-1), on the first supplementation day (W0), and weekly for eight consecutive weeks (W1-W8). There were marked (P < 0.05) increases in TBF (W3-W6) and TV, and a decrease in TE (W3-W5) in the CoQ10 group compared to the CON group. Similarly, testosterone (T) and NO levels (W3-W5) in the CoQ10 group were higher (P < 0.05) than those of the control group. The CoQ10 group demonstrated significant (P < 0.05) increases in seminal CAT (W4-W8) and TAC (W2-W6) activities and decreases in ALT (W4-W7) activity and MDA (W5-W8) concentration as compared to the control group. The CoQ10 group showed improvements (P < 0.05) at W3-W6 for sperm progressive motility, viability, and normal morphology and at W6-W8 for sperm concentration. In conclusion, oral CoQ10 supplementation improved testicular hemodynamics, testosterone production, semen quality, and antioxidant capacity in goat bucks during summer heat stress conditions.

Novel magnetic iron-nickel/poly(ethersulfone) mixed matrix membranes for oxygen separation potential without applying an external magnetic field.

This work presents novel magnetic mixed matrix poly(ethersulfone) (PES) membranes that combine the advantages of low-cost common PES polymer and low-cost iron-nickel magnetic alloys. Moreover, the presented magnetic mixed matrix PES membranes were fabricated and used without applying an external magnetic field during either the membrane casting or the separating process. The fabricated magnetic membranes were prepared using the phase inversion technique and N-methylpyrrolidone and N,N-Dimethylformamide solvents mixture with volumetric ratio 1:9 and Lithium chloride as an additive. The used iron-nickel magnetic alloys were prepared by a simple chemical reduction method with unique morphologies (Fe10Ni90; starfish-like and Fe20Ni80; necklace-like). The fabricated membranes were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Scanning-Transmission Electron Microscope (STEM) imaging, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), Thermogravimetric (TGA), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Also, static water contact angle, membrane thickness, surface roughness, membrane porosity, membrane tensile strength as well as Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) analysis and oxygen transition rate (OTR) were determined. Moreover, the effect of alloy concentration and using Lithium chloride as an additive on the properties of the fabricated blank PES and magnetic mixed matrix PES membranes were studied. The presented novel magnetic mixed matrix PES membranes have high coercivity up to 106 (emu/g) with 3.61 × 10-5 cm3/cm2·s OTR compared to non-oxygen permeable blank PES membranes. The presented novel magnetic mixed matrix PES membranes have good potential in (oxygen) gas separation.

The efficiency of intrauterine infusion of platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of acute endometritis as assessed by endoscopic, Doppler, oxidative, immunohistochemical, and gene expression alterations in jennies.

This study used autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to treat acute endometritis in jennies with follow-up for alterations in uterine hemodynamics, endoscopic, immunohistochemistry, oxidant/antioxidant imbalance, pro-inflammatory regulatory molecules, and transmembrane mucin expressions. Ten jennies suffering from endometritis (acute type; n = 10) were included in the study. PRP was prepared from each animal and two intrauterine infusions one week apart were administrated. Examination and follow-up were done physically, ultrasonographically, endoscopically and samples were taken for histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and bacteriological examination. Blood and uterine fluid samples were taken to estimate biochemical and oxidative stress alterations. Expression of TRAF6 and MUC1 genes was investigated in uterine fluid, at days -1 (day of diagnosis establishment), 7, 14, and 21. Uterine bacteriological examination showed a decrease in bacterial isolates after PRP treatment. The uterine thickness and uterine vascular perfusion as illustrated by color Doppler ultrasonography were significantly decreased in jennies treated by PRP. Uterine spectral wave pattern showed a significant linear increase in pulsatility index only. Three weeks after first PRP treatment, white light endoscopic examination revealed normal uterine body mucosa and uterine horn folds. A high nuclear factor (NF-κB) expression was seen in the mononuclear cells. A significant reduction in oxidative stress biomarkers in both serum and uterine fluid was recorded after PRP treatment. The TRAF-1 gene expression significantly decreased gradually after intrauterine PRP infusion. The MUC-1 gene expression significantly decreased gradually after intrauterine PRP infusion. Both genes were within normal levels by week 3. Endometritis in jennies is associated with an oxidative process, alterations in serum biochemical parameters, Doppler indices, endoscopic appearance, high NF-κB expression, and upregulation of TRAF-1 and MUC-1 expressions. Two intrauterine infusions of autologous PRP restored normal endometrial appearance after acute endometritis.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Improves the Therapeutic Efficiency of Praziquantel in Experimental Schistosomiasis.

PURPOSE: Although praziquantel (PZQ) has a wide use as an anti-schistosome agent, many of its imperfections and side effects have been reported in many studies. The current study aims to evaluate the curative effect of a natural dandelion extract (Taraxacum officinale) on schistosomiasis either alone or in combination with PZQ based on parasitological, immunological, histopathological and molecular investigations. METHODS: Mice were experimentally infected with Schistosoma mansoni cercariae and then divided into four groups, Schistosoma spp.-infected untreated group (IC group), Schistosoma spp.-infected group of mice treated with dandelion (I-Dn group), Schistosoma spp.-infected group of mice treated with PZQ (I-PZQ group), and Schistosoma spp.-infected group of mice treated with both PZQ and dandelion (I-PZQ + Dn group). Treatment started 45 days' post-infection. Besides, non-infected, non-treated mice served as the negative healthy control group (HC group). RESULTS: The present results indicated that dandelion administration significantly reduced the worm burden, ova number, and the number and diameter of hepatic granulomas as compared to the untreated infected group. The results also showed that the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly decreased in the combined treatment group (I-PZQ + Dn) as compared to the I-PZQ group. Administration of dandelion-only remarkably reduced AST and ALT activities associated with schistosomiasis. Moreover, hepatic DNA damage assessed by comet assay was significantly inhibited in the combined treated group compared to the infected untreated and PZQ treated groups. CONCLUSION: The results concluded that combined treatment of PZQ and dandelion extract improved immune response, decreased the number and diameter of granulomas, and inhibited DNA damage, indicating a reduction in liver fibrosis associated with schistosomiasis. The present study focused on the potential effect of dandelion as an adjunct medication for therapeutic properties of PZQ.

MicroRNA-21 expression, serum tumor markers, and immunohistochemistry in canine mammary tumors.

BACKGROUND: Canine mammary tumors (CMTs) are one of the most common malignancies in dogs and are associated with significant mortality. Serum tumor markers and non-coding microRNAs have gained widespread popularity in human oncology studies. The present study has two aims, first one is to investigate the miR-21 expression compared with changes in serum tumor markers (CEA and CA15-3) in CMT. The second aim is to detect the immunohistochemistry markers as vimentin, P63, and -SMA in CMT. METHODS: This study enrolled 17 female dogs: 10 with mammary tumors and seven controls without tumors. Blood samples were collected to measure miR-21, CEA, and CA 15-3, and histological samples were prepared for histological grading and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: CA 15-3 was elevated in all animals, whereas CEA levels showed no change compared with controls. miR-21 was upregulated 12.84-fold in animals with CMT. The most frequently recorded CMT was the mixed type. Myoepithelial cells were identified by P63 immunoreactivity, but not SMA. High expression of miR-21 was observed with positive vimentin immunoreactivity, indicating the mesenchymal origin of the tumor cells. CONCLUSION: The present study showed that miR-21 was elevated to a greater extent than CA 15-3 (12.84-fold vs. threefold). Tumors that was positive for vimentin immunoreactivity was also associated with an elevation in the levels of miR-21, showing that miR-21 is released from mesenchymal cells. These findings support the hypothesis that miR-21 may be a more sensitive, noninvasive indicator for CMT.

Therapeutic Effect of Stem Cells on Male Infertility in a Rat Model: Histological, Molecular, Biochemical, and Functional Study.

Methotrexate (MTX) is a folic acid antagonist, widely used as a chemotherapeutic and immunosuppressive drug, but it is toxic to reproductive systems. In recent years, the era of stem cell applications becomes a promising point as a possible therapeutic agent in male infertility. This study is aimed at evaluating the therapeutic effects of stem cells at histological, molecular, biochemical, and functional levels in a methotrexate-induced testicular damage model. Material and Methods. Thirty rats were divided randomly into three groups (ten rats each): group 1 (control): animals received an intraperitoneal injection of 2 ml phosphate-buffered saline per week for 4 weeks, group 2 (MTX-treated group): animals were intraperitoneally injected with methotrexate (8 mg/kg) once weekly for 4 weeks, and group 3 (ADMSC-treated group): methotrexate-treated animals received a single dose of 1 × 106 stem cells/rat at the 5th week. At the 8th week, blood samples were collected for hormonal analysis; then, animals were sacrificed. The testes were dissected; the right testis was stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Random sections were taken from group 3 and examined with a fluorescent microscope. The left testis was divided into two specimens: the first was used for an electron microscope and the second was homogenized for molecular and biochemical assessments. Results. Group 2 showed significant histological changes, decreased free testosterone level, decrease in stem cell factor expression, and dysfunction of the oxidation state. The results revealed significant improvement of these parameters. Conclusion. Transplantation of adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADMSCs) can improve the testicular damage histologically and functionally in a rat model.

Iron-Nickel Alloy with Starfish-like Shape and Its Unique Magnetic Properties: Effect of Reaction Volume and Metal Concentration on the Synthesized Alloy.

Iron-nickel alloy is an example of bimetallic nanostructures magnetic alloy, which receives intensive and significant attention in recent years due to its desirable superior ferromagnetic and mechanical characteristics. In this work, a unique starfish-like shape of an iron-nickel alloy with unique magnetic properties was presented using a simple, effective, high purity, and low-cost chemical reduction. There is no report on the synthesis of such novel shape without complex precursors and/or surfactants that increase production costs and introduce impurities, so far. The synthesis of five magnetic iron-nickel alloys with varying iron to nickel molar ratios (10-50% Fe) was undertaken by simultaneously reducing Fe(II) and Ni(II) solution using hydrazine hydrate as a reducing agent in strong alkaline media for 15 min at 95-98 °C. The effect of reaction volume and total metal concentration on the properties of the synthesized alloys was studied. Alloy morphology, chemical composition, crystal structure, thermal stability, and magnetic properties of synthesized iron-nickel alloys were characterized by means of SEM, TEM, EDX, XRD, DSC and VSM. ImageJ software was used to calculate the size of the synthesized alloys. A deviation from Vegard's law was recorded for iron molar ration higher than 30%., in which superstructure phase of FeNi3 was formed and the presence of defects in it, as well as the dimensional effects of nanocrystals. The saturation magnetization (Ms), coercivity (Hc), retentivity (Mr), and squareness are strongly affected by the molar ratio of iron and nickel and reaction volume as well as the total metal concentration.

Protective effects of Rosemary extract and/or Fluoxetine on Monosodium Glutamate-induced hippocampal neurotoxicity in rat.

The use of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) as a food flavor enhancer is increasing worldwide despite its neurotoxic effects. Fluoxetine (FLX) and Rosemary extract (RE) are known to have beneficial neuroprotective properties. Rats were divided into five groups: control group; MSG group, rats received 2 g∕kg∕day intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of MSG for seven days; RE/MSG group, rats received 50 mg∕kg∕day of oral RE for 28 days starting prior to MSG; FLX∕MSG group, rats received 10 mg∕kg∕day of oral FLX for 28 days beginning before MSG; and RE∕FLX∕MSG group, received combined treatments as mentioned above. Rats underwent the Barnes maze test, in addition to histopathological, immunohistochemical, morphometric and ultrastructural evaluations for their hippocampi. MSG increased the number of errors and escaped latency in the Barnes maze test that was significantly minimized in the three treatment groups. The MSG group exhibited pyramidal cell (PC) degeneration, shrunken glial cells and massive vascular dilatation that were improved with RE and∕or FLX treatment. The number of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-immunopositive cells were increased, and the number of PCs was decreased in the MSG group, while these values were significantly reversed with the three treatment groups with the most significant improvement at RE∕FLX∕MSG one. Ultrastructurally, PCs were shrunken with degenerated nuclei, dilated endoplasmic reticulum, swollen mitochondria, and vacuolations in the MSG group that were improved with RE and∕or FLX. In conclusion, the combined RE and FLX treatment can ameliorate the toxic effect of MSG on rat hippocampus probably through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Corneal Ulcer in Dogs and Cats: Novel Clinical Application of Regenerative Therapy Using Subconjunctival Injection of Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma.

Background: Corneal ulcer could be a major source of distress in small animals, with many contributing agents. In recent years, few studies evaluated the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in healing corneal ulcers. Aim: This study aimed to assess the ability of subconjunctival injection of autologous PRP in the treatment of corneal ulcers in dogs and cats as well as estimate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9, and oxidative stress biomarkers in these patients. Methods: A total number of 28 animals (16 cats and 12 dogs) were enrolled in this study. Each animal was subjected to clinical, neurologic, and ophthalmic examinations where the type of ulcer was documented. Tear samples were collected for evaluation of oxidative biomarkers and MMPs; conjunctival swabs were taken to identify the involved organism. PRP was prepared from each animal and given as subconjunctival injection; numbers of injections were done according to case response. Clinical follow-up was done and documented for each case. Results: In cat patients, female and Persian cats were most affected; unilateral and superficial ulcers were most recorded. In male dogs, unilateral, and superficial ulcers were most recorded. FHV-1 was most identified in cats, while Staphylococcus aureus was most identified in dogs. Numbers of injections needed to achieve healing were recorded, with 50% of dogs needing two injections with 1-week intervals and 50% of cats needed three injections with 1-week intervals. Alterations in both oxidative biomarkers and MMPs were recorded in affected animals. Conclusion: The use of autologous PRP as a subconjunctival injection in treating corneal ulcers in dogs and cats is effective. The number of injections is the case and corneal ulcer type-dependent. Clinical Significance: Autologous PRP as a subconjunctival injection in treating corneal ulcer is a relatively cheap, safe method and can be done in the clinical setting.

Preparation and Characterization of a Novel Poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene)/Poly(ethersulfone) Blend Membrane Fabricated Using an Innovative Method of Mixing Electrospinning and Phase Inversion.

In this work, a novel polymeric membrane was innovated in terms of composition and preparation techniques. A blend of poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PcH) and poly(ethersulfone) (PES) (18 wt.% total polymer concentration) was prepared using a N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) and N, N-Dimethylformamide (DMF) solvents mixture, while Lithium chloride (0.05-0.5 wt.%) was used as an additive. The electrospinning and phase inversion techniques were used together to obtain a novel membrane structure. The prepared membranes were characterized using scanning electron microscope imaging, energy dispersive X-Ray, differential scanning calorimeter, thermogravimetric analysis, and Fourier transfer infrared spectroscopy-attenuated total reflectance analyses. Moreover, the static water contact angle, membrane thickness, porosity, surface roughness as well as water vapor permeability were determined. ImageJ software was used to estimate the average fiber diameter. Additionally, the effect of the change of PcH concentration and coagulation bath temperature on the properties of the fabricated membrane was studied. The novel developed membrane has shown a good efficiency in terms of properties and features, as a membrane suitable for membrane distillation (MD); a high porosity (84.4% ± 0.6), hydrophobic surface (136.39° ± 3.1 static water contact angle), and a water vapor permeability of around 4.37 × 10-5 g·m/m2·day·Pa were obtained. The prepared membrane can be compared to the MD membranes commercially available in terms of properties and economic value.

Protective effect of Rosuvastatin on Azithromycin induced cardiotoxicity in a rat model.

AIMS: Azithromycin is widely used broad spectrum antibiotic recently used in treatment protocol of COVID-19 for its antiviral and immunomodulatory effects combined with Hydroxychloroquine or alone. Rat models showed that Azithromycin produces oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis of myocardial tissue. Rosuvastatin, a synthetic statin, can attenuate myocardial ischemia with antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects. This study aims to evaluate the probable protective effect of Rosuvastatin against Azithromycin induced cardiotoxicity. MAIN METHOD: Twenty adult male albino rats were divided randomly into four groups, five rats each control, Azithromycin, Rosuvastatin, and Azithromycin +Rosuvastatin groups. Azithromycin 30 mg/kg/day and Rosuvastatin 2 mg/kg/day were administrated for two weeks by an intragastric tube. Twenty-four hours after the last dose, rats were anesthetized and the following measures were carried out; Electrocardiogram, Blood samples for Biochemical analysis of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatine phosphokinase (CPK). The animals sacrificed, hearts excised, apical part processed for H&E, immunohistochemical staining, and examined by light microscope. The remaining parts of the heart were collected for assessment of Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Reduced Glutathione (GSH). KEY FINDINGS: The results revealed that Rosuvastatin significantly ameliorates ECG changes, biochemical, and Oxidative stress markers alterations of Azithromycin. Histological evaluation from Azithromycin group showed marked areas of degeneration, myofibers disorganization, inflammatory infiltrate, and hemorrhage. Immunohistochemical evaluation showed significant increase in both Caspase 3 and Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) immune stain. Rosuvastatin treated group showed restoration of the cardiac muscle fibers in H&E and Immunohistochemical results. SIGNIFICANCE: We concluded that Rosuvastatin significantly ameliorates the toxic changes of Azithromycin on the heart.

Comparison between a Conventional Anti-Biofouling Compound and a Novel Modified Low-Fouling Polyethersulfone Ultrafiltration Membrane: Bacterial Anti-Attachment, Water Quality and Productivity.

In this work, the efficiency of a conventional chlorination pretreatment is compared with a novel modified low-fouling polyethersulfone (PES) ultrafiltration (UF) membrane, in terms of bacteria attachment and membrane biofouling reduction. This study highlights the use of membrane modification as an effective strategy to reduce bacterial attachment, which is the initial step of biofilm formation, rather than using antimicrobial agents that can enhance bacterial regrowth. The obtained results revealed that the filtration of pretreated, inoculated seawater using the modified PES UF membrane without the pre-chlorination step maintained the highest initial flux (3.27 ± 0.13 m3·m-2·h-1) in the membrane, as well as having one and a half times higher water productivity than the unmodified membrane. The highest removal of bacterial cells was achieved by the modified membrane without chlorination, in which about 12.07 × 104 and 8.9 × 104 colony-forming unit (CFU) m-2 bacterial cells were retained on the unmodified and modified membrane surfaces, respectively, while 29.4 × 106 and 0.42 × 106 CFU mL-1 reached the filtrate for the unmodified and modified membranes, respectively. The use of chlorine disinfectant resulted in significant bacterial regrowth.

Uterine hemodynamic patterns, oxidative stress, and chromoendoscopy in mares with endometritis.

This study aimed to evaluate the use of Doppler ultrasound for determining alterations in uterine thickness and uterine arteries, use of chromohysteroscopy in evaluating endometritis with biopsies, and the impact of endometritis on oxidative and hormonal status. Twenty Arabian mares were divided into control and endometritis groups. Each underwent a physical examination, Doppler ultrasound, chromoendoscopy, and uterine biopsy. Blood samples from each animal were collected for hematologic, hormonal, and oxidative analysis. Results revealed a significant increase in estradiol, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide metabolites (NOMs) associated with a significant decrease in progesterone and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the endometritis group. There was a significant difference in uterine thickness in the endometritis group. Uterine blood flow analyzed by color mode showed a significant increase in the endometritis group, while the spectral mode showed a significant increase in Doppler velocities and blood flow rate accompanied by a significant decrease in Doppler indices. The endometritis group showed ridged, bluish color in the endometrial wall, indicating hyperemia. Biopsy showed mononuclear inflammatory cells and edema in the endometrial interstitial tissue with sloughing of the epithelial lining. Conclusion: Endometritis in mares is associated with oxidative processes and presents with an increase in MDA and NOMs and a decrease in TAC. Doppler ultrasound improved endometritis diagnosis because it showed alterations in uterine vascularization. Chromoendoscopy improved the accuracy in taking biopsy samples because it allows the practitioner to select appropriate areas for biopsy to improve histopathological diagnostic outcomes. Therefore, this technique is worthy of further study in the field of veterinary equine reproduction.

Protective effects of Citrus limonia oil against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Cisplatin is broadly used in the treatment of malignancies. However, the high incidence of nephrotoxicity following cisplatin use deters its clinical utility. Former studies have shown that the essential oils, obtained from Citrus limonia demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The aim of the current work was to evaluate the protective effects of Citrus limonia oil against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Thirty-two adult male mice were divided into four groups, eight mice each. The control group received distilled water, and the second group received a single intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin (20 mg/kg), while the third and fourth groups received cisplatin plus Citrus limonia oil at 100 or 200 mg/kg for 10 days, respectively. GC-MS analysis showed that the major components in Citrus limonia oil were D-limonene, 5-methyl-pentadecane, (n)-menthol, 3,7-dimethyl-(E)-2,6-octadienal, 3,7-dimethyl-2,6-octadienal, and nonadecane. Biochemical analysis showed that cisplatin intoxication was associated with significantly increased (p < 0.05) serum levels of urea and creatine and pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as augmented renal tissue oxidative stress. Light microscopic examination showed loss of renal architecture, atrophied glomeruli, interstitial hemorrhage, dilated cortical tubules with cast formation, and excessive collagen production. Electron microscopic examination revealed compressed and karyorrhectic endothelial nuclei with chromatin condensation in the glomeruli, accumulation of mesangial matrix, and obliteration of glomerular blood capillaries. Co-administration of Citrus limonia oil attenuated these effects in renal histopathological, morphometric, and ultrastructural examinations, frequently in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, Citrus limonia oil can ameliorate the toxic effect of cisplatin on mice kidneys, probably through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Oesophageal foreign bodies in cats: Clinical and anatomic findings.

BACKGROUND: Anatomical feline models can aid in understanding the relationships between clinical findings and anatomical features and the course of foreign bodies passing through the oesophagus. This study has two goals 1) to assess feline oesophageal foreign bodies in feline patients using physical, radiologic and endoscopic examination and, how their location influences treatment plans and complications. 2) How the anatomical sharp angle of the oesophagus contribute to foreign body lodgement. Thirty-five cats were enrolled in this study; 30 of them were clinically ill, and five cats were used for anatomical study. RESULTS: Cats with clinical signs underwent complete clinical and radiologic examination. Endoscopy was performed in only five cases. The site with the highest occurrence of foreign body lodgement was the oesophageal entrance, caudal to the pharynx (63.3%), followed by the thoracic inlet (26.7%) and the mid-cervical region of the oesophagus (10%). Two types of foreign bodies were identified: sewing needles (25/30) and bone (5/30). Radiography was able to identify the location and nature of the foreign body in all 30 affected cats. Therapeutic regimens were applied according to the nature and location of the foreign body and any associated complications. Removal of the foreign body was achieved using Rochester pean artery forceps in 17/30 cases, using full surgical intervention in 8/30 cases, and during endoscopy in 5/30 cases. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the location of the foreign body is strongly related to combination of consumed foreign body type and anatomic features of the cat oesophagus. The feline oesophagus has a variety of sharp angles that facilitate the entrapment of rigid linear and angular foreign bodies. Radiographic imaging remains the most frequently used diagnostic modality for determining the lodgement site and nature of radiopaque foreign bodies. Over all complication rate was low (6/30).

Effect of parity on metabolic and oxidative stress profiles in Holstein dairy cows.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Pregnancy and lactation have an impact on health status of animals and constitute burden on body metabolites and the oxidant-antioxidant equilibrium. This study is aimed at evaluating metabolic and oxidative stress patterns and parity impacts in both primiparous and multiparous dairy cows. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-seven primiparous and multiparous. Holstein cows were enrolled and categorized into four groups according to their physiologic status: Primiparous peripartum heifer (n=5), primiparous postpartum cow (n=9), multiparous peripartum cows (n=5), and multiparous postpartum cows (n=8). Blood sample was taken from each animal - peripartum groups at 3 weeks prepartum and postpartum groups at 3 weeks post-parturition - for complete blood picture, glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, total protein, albumin, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity, and haptoglobin estimation. RESULTS: Postpartum primiparous cows showed significant decrease in glucose, total protein, and albumin while showing significant increase in MDA, NEFA, and globulin; on the other hand, multiparous postpartum cows showed significant decrease in glucose, total protein, and albumin, associated with significant increase in cholesterol and MDA when compared with prepartum PP and MP cows, respectively. Postpartum multiparous cows significantly showed reduction in NEFA when compared to primiparous postpartum cows. Hematologic profiles of postpartum primiparous and multiparous cows showed significant decrease in red blood cells and packed cell volume, significant increase in lymphocytes when compared with prepartum cows. CONCLUSION: Metabolic and oxidative abnormalities exist in both primiparous and multiparous cows during the transition phase, however postpartum primiparous cows show higher susceptibility to negative energy balance impacts. Oxidant/antioxidant imbalance occurred in both the primiparous and multiparous postpartum cows, highlighting the importance of oxidative stress profiles in the assessment of metabolic health status during transition.

Expression of blood hepatocyte-derived microRNA-122 in canine multicentric lymphoma with hepatic involvement.

This study was performed to evaluate the hepatocyte-derived microRNA (miR)-122 as novel diagnostic biomarker in canine lymphoma. Fifteen dogs were enrolled in this study. Dogs presented at Small Animal Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University. Dogs were divided into 8 clinically healthy dogs act as control and 7 clinically ill dogs. All dogs were subjected to clinical, ultrasonographic, hemato-biochemical and ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy for cytological and histopathological investigations. On the basis of these results, 7 dogs were found to be suffering from multicentric lymphoma involving liver. Serum hepatocyte-derived miRA-122 was determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in all dogs. Multicentric lymphoma involving liver manifested by inappetance for several days, depression and peripheral lymphadenopathy. Hematological examination showed significant lymphocytosis. Serum biochemical analysis revealed significant increase in ALT, AST, ALP compared to control dogs. Ultrasonography revealed hypoechoic lymphoid aggregation at area of "porta hepatis" and circumscribed hypoechoic nodule interrupt liver parenchyma. Cytology revealed infiltration of liver tissue by lymphoblast cells and histopathology revealed diffuse infiltration of hepatic sinusoids and portal area by uniform population of small lymphocytes. Serum miRNA-122 analysis showed a significant increase represented as 9.00 fold in canine multicentric lymphoma involving liver. Serum hepatocyte-derived miRNA-122 is of diagnostic value, non invasive, stable and easily measurable blood biomarker for the detection of hepatocellular injury in dogs with multicentric lymphoma involving liver.