Correlation between Cross-Sectional Anatomy and Computed Tomography of the Normal Six-Banded Armadillo (Euphractus sexcintus) Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinuses.

This research aimed to study the rostral part of the head of the six-banded armadillo, applying advanced imaging techniques such as CT. Furthermore, by combining the images obtained through this technique with anatomical cross-sections, an adequate description of the structures that constitute the rostral part of the head of this species is presented. This anatomical information could provide a valuable diagnostic tool for the clinical evaluation of different disorders in the six-banded armadillo's nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.

An Anatomical Study Using Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Rhinoscopy of the Nasal Cavity of Domestic Cat (Felis silvestris catus L.) and Big Cats: Lion (Panthera leo leo L.), Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya L.), and Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus S.).

The objective of this work was to study the normal anatomy of the nasal cavity of the three species of big cats (leopard, lion, and cheetah) compared to the domestic cat through the use of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and rhinoscopy. Computed tomography allowed us to clearly visualize the entire bony and cartilaginous framework that supports the nasal cavity. Magnetic resonance imaging permitted better visualization of the soft tissues of this cavity. On the other hand, rhinoscopy enabled the direct visualization of the mucosa of the vestibule and nasal cavity, which is very useful in the diagnosis of masses or foreign bodies. Furthermore, with this technique, it has been possible to observe several small orifices from the nasolacrimal duct, the pharyngeal auditory tube, and the lateral nasal gland. Computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and rhinoscopy are useful tools in analysis of the anatomical characteristics of the nasal cavity in these species.

A Cadaveric Study Using Anatomical Cross-Section and Computed Tomography for the Coelomic Cavity in Juvenile Cory's Shearwater (Aves, Procellariidae, Calonectris borealis).

Birds play a crucial role in ecosystems, engaging in key functions such as pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal. The anatomical understanding of these species is essential to addressing emerging challenges, including climate change and habitat loss, which directly impact their survival. Detailed knowledge of avian anatomy is fundamental for research across various disciplines, ranging from ornithology to veterinary medicine. Therefore, this study aims to disseminate the understanding of avian anatomy and the application of computed tomography (CT) for visualizing the coelomic cavity in Cory's Shearwater (Calonectris borealis). Recent advances in comprehending the anatomical structures of this region in avian species are highlighted, with a specific focus on Cory's Shearwater as a study model. Various anatomical cross-sections and transverse CT images were described and analyzed in detail, offering a comprehensive insight into the coelomic cavity from different perspectives. The correlation between anatomical cross-sections and CT images is emphasized as crucial for a profound understanding of avian anatomy. This research contributes to the broader knowledge of avian anatomy, with potential implications for conservation efforts and veterinary practices.

Ocular Surface Characteristics in Pugs with Pigmentary Keratitis in the Canary Islands, Spain.

This study investigated the prevalence of pigmentary keratitis (PK) in Pug-breed dogs and described the ocular surface characteristics associated with this disease. A total of 219 eyes from 110 dogs were examined, with 94.5% of them affected by PK. Age, previous ocular diseases, corneal vascularization, and corneal sensitivity were significantly associated with the presence of PF and the severity of corneal pigmentation. The study also found that low tear production and blinks incomplete with tear signs, as well as reduced corneal sensitivity, were linked to more severe forms of corneal pigmentation. The Tear Ferning Test (TFT) was identified as a valuable tool for evaluating tear quality in dogs, with worse test results indicating a higher risk of severe PK. A lower mean Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT) test was observed in dogs with PK. Additionally, the study observed a statistically significant difference in corneal thickness between the nasal and temporal zones, with the nasal zone being thicker. It was also suggested that sex and fertility status may influence the incidence of PK and the severity of corneal pigmentation. Overall, these findings provide insight into the underlying causes of PK in Pugs and can inform future treatment strategies for this breed.

Cross Sectional Anatomy and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Juvenile Atlantic Puffin Head (Aves, Alcidae, Fratercula arctica).

The Atlantic puffin is a medium-sized seabird with black and white plumage and orange feet. It is distributed mainly along the northern Atlantic Ocean, and due, among other reasons, to human activities, it is in a threatened situation and classified as a vulnerable species according to the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In this study, we used a total of 20 carcasses of juvenile Atlantic puffins to perform MRI, as well as anatomical cross-sections. Thus, an adequate description of the head was made, providing valuable information that could be helpful as a diagnostic tool for veterinary clinicians, who increasingly treat these birds in zoos, rehabilitation centers, and even in the wild.

Cross-Sectional Anatomy and Computed Tomography of the Coelomic Cavity in Juvenile Atlantic Puffins (Aves, Alcidae, Fratercula arctica).

In birds, unlike mammals, there is no complete separation between the thoracic and abdominal cavities. Instead, they have the coelomic cavity where most main organs are found. Therefore, an adequate knowledge of the anatomy of the coelomic cavity is of great importance for veterinarians, biologists and the scientific community. This study aimed to evaluate the coelomic cavity anatomy in the Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica) using anatomical sections and computed tomography images.

Nurturing a Respectful Connection: Exploring the Relationship between University Educators and Students in a Spanish Veterinary Faculty.

The respect of the teacher for the student is essential for effective teaching from the perspective of the students, even in comparison to the knowledge and communication capacity of the teacher. Consequently, the optimal development of this characteristic fosters a more effective and efficient student-teacher relationship. We initiated this research following a conversation with a group of university students, who expressed their discontent regarding the lack of respect shown towards them by some teachers. Therefore, we conducted a descriptive study using online surveys, focusing on the central axis in the teacher-student relationship. The results highlighted the need for faculty members to analyze and question their attitudes towards their students. This paper presents initial results of the data collected at the Veterinary Faculty of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

Cranial Investigations of Crested Porcupine (Hystrix cristata) by Anatomical Cross-Sections and Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

This paper aimed to describe an atlas of the crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata) head by applying advanced imaging techniques such as MRI. Furthermore, by combining the images acquired through these techniques with anatomical sections, we obtained an adequate description of the structures that form the CNS and associated structures of this species. This anatomical information could serve as a valuable diagnostic tool for the clinical evaluation of different pathological processes in porcupines, such as abscesses, skull malformations, fractures, and neoplasia.

A Cadaveric Study Using Computed Tomography for Measuring the Ocular Bulb and Scleral Skeleton of the Atlantic Puffin (Aves, Alcidae, Fratercula arctica).

Imaging diagnosis plays a fundamental role in avian medicine. However, there are few publications regarding its use in ophthalmology. Seabirds, in particular, present a peculiar ecology since their lives take place in very diverse environments: the aquatic, the terrestrial, and the aerial. This fact implies a series of adaptations at a visual level that are necessary for adequate interaction with the environment. Therefore, knowledge of eye particularities is of great importance for the scientific community since it allows us to deepen our understanding of the ocular anatomy and biology of these animals, which are increasingly present in veterinary and wildlife centers. In our study, we performed a morphometric analysis of the ocular bulb and its internal structures in the puffin (Fratercula arctica) using advanced imaging techniques such as CT.

Creation of Three-Dimensional Anatomical Vascular and Biliary Models for the Study of the Feline Liver (Felis silvestris catus L.): A Comparative CT, Volume Rendering (Vr), Cast and 3D Printing Study.

In this study, six adult feline cadavers were examined using CTA, 3D printing, and casts injected with epoxy. The aorta, the portal vein, and the gallbladder of 3 feline cadavers were separately injected with a 50% mixture of colored vulcanized latex and hydrated barium sulfate as contrast medium to analyze by CT the arterial, venous and biliary systems. The other three cadavers were injected with a mixture of epoxy resin in the aorta, gallbladder and hepatic veins, separately. After the corrosion and washing process, hepatic vascular and biliary casts were obtained. The images obtained by CT showed the vascular and biliary system using a soft tissue window. For the identification of vascular and biliary structures, the 3D prints together with the 3D reconstructions were analyzed, and the results were compared with the casts obtained with epoxy resin. Each of the arterial, venous and biliary branches associated with each of the liver lobes were identified with the help of the printings. In conclusion, the creation of 3D prototypes of nonpathological feline hepatic parenchyma can be used in the veterinary clinic as a basis for the detection of pathological problems in addition to obtaining future pathological hepatic 3D models.

Anatomical Description of Rhinoceros Iguana (Cyclura cornuta cornuta) Head by Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Gross-Sections.

In this paper, we attempted to elaborate on an atlas of the head of the rhinoceros iguana, applying modern imaging techniques such as CT and MRI. Furthermore, by combining the images acquired through these techniques with macroscopic anatomical sections, we obtained an adequate description of the relevant structures that form the head of this species. This anatomical information could provide a valuable diagnostic tool for the clinical evaluation of different pathological processes in iguanas such as abscesses and osteodystrophy secondary to nutrient imbalances, skull malformations, fractures, and neoplasia.

Morphometric Study of the Eyeball of the Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) Using Computed Tomography (CT).

The short bibliography referring to the anatomy and pathology of the eyeball of turtles poses a challenge for veterinarians and conservationists given the increasing presence of this type of turtle in veterinary and wildlife centres. Although they nest on land, these animals spend a large part of their lives in the ocean, which entails a series of eye adaptations such as well-developed nictitating membranes, palpebral scales, highly sensitive corneas, or sclerotic rings to protect the eye. In our study, we performed a morphometric analysis of the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) eyeball and its internal structures using advanced imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT). To the best of the authors' knowledge, there have been no studies published that describe the CT intraocular measurements of presumed normal loggerhead turtle eyes.

Premedication with acetazolamide: Is its use for postoperative pain and stress control after laparoscopic ovariectomy in dogs ruled out?

BACKGROUND: Studies in human medicine have concluded that acetazolamide reduces pain associated with carbon dioxide insufflation during laparoscopic surgery. However, there are no published reports regarding the use of acetazolamide for this purpose in companion animals, despite the increasing popularity of laparoscopic techniques in veterinary medicine due to their advantages over open surgeries. OBJECTIVES: Thirty mixed-breed female dogs were included in the study and randomly assigned to one of three groups: OVE (median celiotomy ovariectomy; n = 10), OVEL (laparoscopic ovariectomy, n = 10) and OVELA (laparoscopic ovariectomy with acetazolamide preoperative administration; n = 10). Experienced surgeons performed all procedures, and the anaesthetic and analgesic protocols were identical for all animals. Acetazolamide was administered orally (at a dose of 25 mg/kg) 2 h prior to induction in the OVELA group. Postoperative pain was evaluated using serum cortisol, salivary cortisol, and the University of Melbourne Pain Scale (UMPS) Score. RESULTS: Any statistical differences were observed in the UMPS scores when the OVELA group was compared to the OVEL group at 1 h after surgery (p = 0.515), 12 h (p = 0.375) and 24 h (p = 0.242). Animals undergoing open surgery (OVE group) had significantly higher pain scores at all times after surgery when compared with OVEL and OVELA groups. A high positive correlation (r = 0.792; p = 0.01) was found between serum and saliva cortisol concentrations. Mean saliva cortisol concentration was not significantly lower for the OVELA group compared to the other groups. CONCLUSIONS: This study found evidence that preoperative administration of acetazolamide may be beneficial in managing postoperative pain in dogs after laparoscopic surgeries. However, further research with a larger sample size is needed to confirm this and to determine if acetazolamide should be included in a multimodal postoperative analgesia protocol for laparoscopic ovariectomy in dogs.

Mechanisms of Actions Involved in The Antinociceptive Effect of Estragole and its ß-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex in Animal Models.

(1) Background: estragole is a monoterpene found in the essential oils of several aromatic plants, which can be used for several pharmacological activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antinociceptive effect of estragole (Es) and its ß-cyclodextrins inclusion complex (Es/ß-CD). (2) Methods: the effects of Es and Es/ß-CD on the central nervous system (CNS) were evaluated through open field and rota-rod assays, and the antinociceptive effect in formalin models, abdominal writhing induced by acetic acid, hot plate, tail flick test and plantar mechanical hyperalgesia. (3) Results: Es and Es/ß-CD showed no alterations on the CNS evaluated parameters and the results suggested there was an antinociceptive action in the formalin, abdominal writhing, hot plate, tail flick tests and plantar mechanical hyperalgesia, proposing the involvement of the nitric oxide, glutamatergic signaling pathways, cyclic guanosine monophosphate and vanilloid pathways. (4) Conclusion: the results suggest that Es and Es/ß-CD have a promising antinociceptive potential as a possible alternative for the pharmacological treatment of pain, also showing that the encapsulation of Es in ß-cyclodextrins probably improves its pharmacological properties, since the complexation process involves much lower amounts of the compound, contributing to better bioavailability and a lower probability of adverse effect development.

Laparoscopic Castration Using Bipolar Forceps vs. Orchiectomy in Dogs: A Comparison of Two Techniques.

This paper aimed to study the feasibility of a new laparoscopic castration technique in male dogs, evaluate the pain associated with it, and compare it with the classical orchiectomy. Surgical times, pain scores, blood and salivary cortisol, and CRP were recorded and compared between the two groups. The use of high-frequency bipolar forceps allowed quick and uneventful laparoscopic procedures. The laparoscopic group had significantly lower pain scores, cortisol, and PCR values than the orchiectomy group. No complications were seen in any group. Our results suggest that this laparoscopic castration is a safe and beneficial surgical alternative to traditional orchiectomy in dogs.

Cranial Structure of Varanus komodoensis as Revealed by Computed-Tomographic Imaging.

This study aimed to describe the anatomic features of the normal head of the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) identified by computed tomography. CT images were obtained in two dragons using a helical CT scanner. All sections were displayed with a bone and soft tissue windows setting. Head reconstructed, and maximum intensity projection images were obtained to enhance bony structures. After CT imaging, the images were compared with other studies and reptile anatomy textbooks to facilitate the interpretation of the CT images. Anatomic details of the head of the Komodo dragon were identified according to the CT density characteristics of the different organic tissues. This information is intended to be a useful initial anatomic reference in interpreting clinical CT imaging studies of the head and associated structures in live Komodo dragons.

Ultrasound evaluation of adrenal gland size in clinically healthy dogs and in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism.

BACKGROUND: Precise reference intervals of adrenal gland thickness are required for detection of adrenomegaly in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism (HAC). METHODS: Eighty-six clinically healthy dogs were prospectively included, and 91 dogs with untreated HAC were retrospectively evaluated. Dorso-ventral adrenal gland thickness was ultrasonographically measured on the sagittal plane. Dogs were classified into four body weight categories, and those with HAC were also ultrasonographically classified as consistent with pituitary-dependent HAC (PDH), adrenal-dependent HAC (FAT), equivocal adrenal asymmetry (EAA), or normal adrenal thickness. RESULTS: The upper limits for left adrenal gland in clinically healthy dogs were 5.1 mm (≥2.5-5 kg), 5.5 mm (>5-10 kg), 6.4 mm (>10-20 kg), and 7.3 mm (>20-40 kg), and for right adrenal gland the upper limits were 5.3 mm (≥2.5-5 kg), 6.8 mm (>5-10 kg), 7.5 mm (>10-20 kg), and 8.7 mm (>20-40 kg). The sensitivity of ultrasound to detect adrenomegaly in dogs with HAC was 95.6%. Most dogs with HAC (56.0%) had ultrasound findings consistent with either PDH or FAT; however, EAA was commonly occurring in 39.6% of dogs with HAC. CONCLUSIONS: The sensitivity of ultrasonography to detect adrenomegaly in dogs with HAC is high when using four weight categories. EAA is common in dogs with HAC.

Ultrasonographic evaluation of adrenal gland size in two body weight categories of healthy adult cats.

OBJECTIVES: Adrenal gland size and its association with body weight have been rarely evaluated in cats. This study was undertaken to assess the association between feline body weight and adrenal gland thickness, and to propose reference intervals (RIs) for adrenal gland thickness in healthy cats. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study in which 39 healthy cats were included. The cats were divided into two weight categories, classified as ⩽4.0 kg and >4-8 kg of ideal body weight (with 13 and 26 cats in each group, respectively), which took into consideration the body condition score of the cats. All cats underwent an ultrasound examination that was taken from a subcostal position. Maximum dorsoventral thicknesses of the left (MTL) and right (MTR) adrenal glands were measured in a sagittal plane. RIs were obtained for the maximum thickness (MT), which included the MTLs and MTRs of each cat. RIs with the 90% confidence intervals were calculated according to American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology guidelines on RIs. RESULTS: No statistical differences for adrenal gland thickness were observed between the left and right (P = 0.543) adrenal glands or between male and female cats (P = 0.943). Mean MT was significantly greater in the group of cats weighing >4-8 kg compared with the group of cats weighing ⩽4 kg (3.7 ± 0.6 vs 3.2 ± 0.4 mm; P <0.005). The lower limit of the RI for MT was 2.4 mm (range 2.2-2.6 mm) in the group weighing ⩽4 kg and 2.6 mm (range 2.4-2.8 mm) in the group weighing >4-8 kg. The upper limit of the RI for MT was 3.9 mm (range 3.7-4.1 mm) in the group of cats weighing ⩽4 kg and 4.8 mm (range 4.6-5.1 mm) in the group of cats weighing >4-8 kg. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The use of RIs based on two group sizes allows for a more accurate ultrasonographic evaluation of adrenal gland thickness in cats. The maximum normal adrenal gland thickness is lower in smaller cats (3.9 mm for those weighing ⩽4 kg and 4.8 mm for those weighing >4-8 kg).

Anatomical Assessment of the Thorax in the Neonatal Foal Using Computed Tomography Angiography, Sectional Anatomy, and Gross Dissections.

The purpose of this study was to correlate the anatomic features of the normal thorax of neonatal foals identified by CTA, with anatomical sections and gross dissections. Contrast-enhanced transverse CTA images were obtained in three neonatal foals using a helical CT scanner. All sections were imaged with a bone, mediastinal, and lung windows setting. Moreover, cardiac volume-rendered reconstructed images were obtained. After CT imaging, the cadaver foals were sectioned and dissected to facilitate the interpretation of the intrathoracic cardiovascular structures to the corresponding CTA images. Anatomic details of the thorax of neonatal foals were identified according to the characteristics of CT density of the different organic tissues and compared with the corresponding anatomical sections and gross dissections. The information obtained provided a valid anatomic pattern of the thorax of foals, and useful information for CTA studies of this region.

Anatomic Study of the Elbow Joint in a Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Gross Dissections.

The objective of our research was to describe the normal appearance of the bony and soft tissue structures of the elbow joint in a cadaver of a male mature Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) scanned via MRI. Using a 0.2 Tesla magnet, Spin-echo (SE) T1-weighting, and Gradient-echo short tau inversion recovery (GE-STIR), T2-weighting pulse sequences were selected to generate sagittal, transverse, and dorsal planes. In addition, gross dissections of the forelimb and its elbow joint were made. On anatomic dissections, all bony, articular, and muscular structures could be identified. The MRI images allowed us to observe the bony and many soft tissues of the tiger elbow joint. The SE T1-weighted MR images provided good anatomic detail of this joint, whereas the GE-STIR T2-weighted MR pulse sequence was best for synovial cavities. Detailed information is provided that may be used as initial anatomic reference for interpretation of MR images of the Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) elbow joint and in the diagnosis of disorders of this region.