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Four wild chelonians (two three-toed box turtles [Terrapene triunguis] and two red-eared sliders [Trachemys scripta elegans]) were presented to an academic wildlife rehabilitation center after presumably being hit by a car. Physical examinations revealed various carapace, bridge, and plastron fractures, as well as a lack of motor function of different limbs. A craniodorsal-caudoventral oblique view or caudodorsal-cranioventral oblique radiographic view made at 45° to the frontal plane (Cr45D-CdV and Cd45D-CrV oblique views, respectively), along with standard views (i.e., dorsoventral, right lateral, craniocaudal views), were performed. The oblique views allowed for visualization of different pectoral girdle or pelvic girdle fractures that were not visualized or clearly identified on the standard views. Based on the four clinical cases described here, the addition of Cr45D-CdV or Cd45D-CrV oblique views to the standard views may be beneficial, especially when advance imaging such as computed tomography is not available. These oblique views can be used to better assess chelonian pectoral and pelvic girdles because these structures are superimposed in standard radiographs. Future studies investigating the diagnostic accuracy of detecting pelvic and pectoral girdle fractures using these views are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is limited information on the prevalence and etiology of urolithiasis, although it is considered a common condition in chelonians. Several hypotheses regarding urolith formation in chelonians have been proposed, but none has been tested by epidemiological research. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of urolithiasis in a large number of chelonians and to evaluate the association between housing and dietary conditions and urolithiasis in African spurred tortoises (Centrochelys sulcata). Records of all client-owned chelonians that underwent radiographs at two institutions were extracted. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were built to explore associations between the presence of urolithiasis and husbandry variables. Prevalence of urolithiasis was 4.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.3–5.9%; 46/1,033) among all chelonians. Terrestrial chelonians had 64 times the odds (odds ratio [OR]: 64.2; 95% CI: 15.4–266.6; P < 0.001) of presenting urolithiasis compared with aquatic chelonians. African spurred tortoises had 22 times the odds (OR: 22.3; 95% CI: 7.7–64.5; P < 0.001) of presenting urolithiasis compared with other terrestrial chelonians. African spurred tortoises living in a confined indoor area had 3 times the odds of presenting urolithiasis compared with the tortoises living outdoors (OR: 3.01; 95% CI: 1.06–8.55; P = 0.038), and African spurred tortoises that were not fed any fruit had 0.31 times the odds of presenting urolithiasis compared with the tortoises fed fruit (OR: 0.31; 95% CI: 0.10–0.99; P = 0.049). Certain chelonians in captivity are at higher risk than others of suffering urolithiasis. African spurred tortoises in a confined indoor area had the highest risk of developing urolithiasis. As a precaution, avoiding fruit should be considered in the diet of African spurred tortoises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small intestinal obstruction in rabbits, although demonstrated to be common, is still poorly characterized. The objective of this study was to report features of small intestinal obstruction caused by trichobezoars in rabbits upon CT and their clinical outcomes. Rabbits with a diagnosis of intestinal obstruction that underwent CT scanning were included in this study. From each CT scan, obstruction location, appearance, Hounsfield units, size (mm), volume (mm3), distance from the stomach, and diameter of the small intestine proximal and distal to it, were extracted. Nine rabbits were included in the study. All rabbits presented for anorexia and had a distended or enlarged stomach (7) or abdomen (2). CT scan showed a non‐contrast‐enhancing, ovoid, smoothly marginated structure with a hyperattenuating rim, heterogeneous center, and variable amount of centrally located gas, in the duodenum (5), the jejunum (2), or the ileum (2). The density of the trichobezoars ranged from −156 to 58 HU (median, −44 HU) and volume ranged from 86.1 to 633.8 mm3 (median, 320.6 mm3). Three rabbits underwent medical management. Two of them survived, and one of them died. Six rabbits underwent surgery, of which three were successfully discharged from the hospital. CT proved to be a valuable imaging modality in rabbits with a suspected intestinal obstruction to provide the exact location of the obstruction and the characteristics of the obstructive material. The location and size of the trichobezoar may have relevant clinical implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Spin on adverse effects in abstracts of systematic reviews of orthodontic interventions: a cross-sectional study (part 2)." The authors reported a typo error in Table 6 of the original article, where the headings 'Yes' and 'No' were interchanged. The corrected table is provided in the document. The article can be accessed online at the given DOI link. The table in the document presents data on the associations between the presence of spin in the abstract and characteristics of systematic reviews in the field of orthodontics. It includes information on variables such as conflict of interest reported, funding reported, and type of orthodontic intervention. The purpose of the table is to provide information on the relationship between these variables and the presence of spin in the abstracts of systematic reviews. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Rabbits are extremely sensitive to pain. There is evidence on whether non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory medication should be administered before or after surgery in rabbits. Objectives: In this study, we compared the pain scores and behaviours of rabbits administered meloxicam before or after routine castration. Methods: Forty‐two healthy rabbits undergoing castration were randomly assigned to receive meloxicam (1 mg/kg SC) 1 h before or upon recovery from anaesthesia. Several parameters were recorded, including the occurrence of eating, defecating and pain scores postoperatively and change in heart rate intraoperatively. Results: At 4 h after surgery, eating was observed in 43% (9/21) of rabbits that received meloxicam before neutering and in 29% (6/21) of rabbits that received meloxicam after. The morning after the surgery, eating was observed in 62% (13/21) of rabbits that received meloxicam before neutering and in 57% (12/21) of rabbits that received meloxicam after. The odds of not eating increased by 1.16 times (1.03–1.29; p = 0.01) per month of age, whereas there was no significant association between eating and administration of meloxicam before or after surgery, body weight and time. Similarly, defecation, pain score and change in heart rate did not differ in animals receiving meloxicam before or after surgery. Conclusions: Administration of meloxicam in rabbits undergoing castration before or after surgery does not have a relevant effect on eating, defecating or pain score. Younger rabbits show less obvious signs of pain and are more likely to resume eating habits sooner after surgery compared to older rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Systematic reviews that assess the benefits of interventions often do not completely capture all dimensions of the adverse effects. This cross-sectional study (part 1 of 2 studies) assessed whether adverse effects were sought, whether the findings on these effects were reported, and what types of adverse effects were identified in systematic reviews of orthodontic interventions. Methods: Systematic reviews of orthodontic interventions on human patients of any health status, sex, age, and demographics, and socio-economic status, in any type of setting assessing any type of adverse effect scored at any endpoint or timing were eligible. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and 5 leading orthodontic journals were manually searched for eligible reviews between August 1 2009 and July 31 2021. Study selection and data extraction was conducted by two researchers independently. Prevalence proportions were calculated for four outcomes on seeking and reporting of adverse effects of orthodontic interventions. Univariable logistic regression models were used to determine the association between each one of these outcomes and the journal in which the systematic review was published using the eligible Cochrane reviews as reference. Results: Ninety-eight eligible systematic reviews were identified. 35.7% (35/98) of reviews defined seeking of adverse effects as a research objective, 85.7% (84/98) sought adverse effects, 84.7% (83/98) reported findings related to adverse effects, and 90.8% (89/98) considered or discussed potential adverse effects in the review. Reviews in the journal Orthodontics and Craniofacial Research compared with Cochrane reviews had approximately 7 times the odds (OR 7.20, 95% CI 1.08 to 47.96) to define seeking of adverse effects in the research objectives. Five of the 12 categories of adverse effects accounted for 83.1% (162/195) of all adverse effects sought and reported. Conclusions: Although the majority of included reviews sought and reported adverse effects of orthodontic interventions, end-users of these reviews should beware that these findings do not give the complete spectrum on these effects and that they could be jeopardized by the risk of non-systematically assessing and reporting of adverse effects in these reviews and in the primary studies that feed them. Much research is ahead such as developing core outcome sets on adverse effects of interventions for both primary studies and systematic reviews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is critical that abstracts of systematic reviews transparently report both the beneficial and adverse effects of interventions without misleading the readers. This cross-sectional study assessed whether adverse effects of interventions were reported or considered in abstracts of systematic reviews of orthodontic interventions and whether spin on adverse effects was identified when comparing the abstracts with what was sought and reported in these reviews. Methods: This cross-sectional study (part 2 of 2) used the same sample of 98 systematic reviews orthodontic interventions as used in part 1. Eligible reviews were retrieved from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and the 5 leading orthodontic journals between August 1 2009 and July 31 2021. Prevalence proportions were sought for 3 outcomes as defined in the published protocol. Univariable logistic regression models were built to explore associations between the presence of spin in the abstract and a series of predictors. Odds ratios (OR) 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were used to quantify the strength of associations and their precision. Results: 76.5% (75/98) of eligible reviews reported or considered (i.e., discussed, weighted etc.) potential adverse effects of orthodontic interventions in the abstract and the proportion of spin on adverse effects was 40.8% (40/98) in the abstract of these reviews. Misleading reporting was the predominant category of spin, i.e., 90% (36/40). Our explorative analyses found that compared to the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews all 5 orthodontic journals had similar odds of the presence of spin on adverse effects in abstracts of systematic reviews of orthodontic interventions. The odds of the presence of spin did not change over the sampled years (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.9 to 1.16) and did not depend on the number of authors (OR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.71 to 1.21), or on the type of orthodontic intervention (OR: 1.1, 95% CI: 0.45 to 2.67), or whether conflicts of interests were reported (OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.32 to 1.68). Conclusion: End users of systematic reviews of orthodontic interventions have to be careful when interpreting results on adverse effects in the abstracts of these reviews, because they could be jeopardized by uncertainties such as not being reported and misleading reporting as a result of spin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the prevalence of lizards presenting to a university teaching hospital that had an IV catheter placed, the catheterization sites used, and complications arising with the placement of the catheter both in the short and long term. Design: Retrospective study. Setting: University teaching hospital. Animals: Twenty‐one lizards, including inland bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps; 15/21), green iguanas (Iguana iguana; 4/21), and veiled chameleons (Chamaeleo calyptratus; 2/21). Interventions: None. Measurements and Main Results: Of 129 lizard consultations performed between September 27, 2018 and September 27, 2021, 21 catheters were placed, resulting in an overall prevalence of 16.3%. Reasons for catheter placement included hospitalization for fluid therapy (10/21 [47.6%]), anesthesia or surgery ± hospitalization (7/21 [33.3%]), computed tomography scan with contrast (2/21 [9.5%]), euthanasia only (1/21 [4.8%]), and CPR only (1/21 [4.8%]). All catheters were placed in the ventral coccygeal vein via a ventral approach. Sedation was used in 6 of 21 (28.6%) of the catheters placed. Seven of the catheters (35%) were used for administration of fluids only, 4 (20%) were used for administering drugs/medications only, and 9 (45%) catheters administered both fluids and drugs/medications. No complications were noticed in any of the lizards that had catheters placed, both in the short and long term. Conclusions: Based on the retrospective evaluation of medical records at a veterinary teaching hospital, IV catheter placement in lizards is feasible, including in conscious animals, with roughly 1 consultation out of 6 resulting in a catheter placed. The most frequent reason for catheter placement was for administration of fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Some species of turtle and tortoise are vulnerable or declared threatened and pathogens such as Mycoplasmopsis agassizii can cause severe declines in their populations. Diagnosis and control of transmissible disease is the key for limiting the spread of pathogens in collection of animals. Sequencing and sharing sequences of mycoplasmas obtained from reptiles is important to improve diagnostic tests and to monitor the species affinity and the cross-species transmission potential of mycoplasmas. This study stresses the important role of practitioners in proper collection and sharing of data for appropriate analysis. The results obtained show that M. agasizii is detectable in different specimens and how is important to collect the proper sample to avoid false negative results. Not only animals with upper respiratory diseases should be considered as potentially infected, because M. agassizii sequences were found also in asymptomatic animals and in tortoises with stomatitis without respiratory signs. Coinfection with or infection due to other pathogens should be also considered. Mycoplasmopsis agassizii causes the Upper Respiratory Tract Disease (URTD) in tortoises. The severity of the disease usually ranges from mild to severe respiratory signs. Animals can recover, die, or become asymptomatic carriers and are source of infection for other tortoises. This study describes (i) the clinical history and the results obtained in ten years of diagnostic PCR activity for detecting M. agassizii in different species of captive tortoises in Italy, and (ii) the phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequences of M. agassizii. A total of 26.0% out of 169 samples resulted positive by PCR and 32 out of 75 (42.7%) animals with symptoms were positive. Sequences ob-tained from the PCR products were conserved, differed from the sequence of the M. agassizii type strain PS6, and were identical to many M. agassizii sequences deposited in databases. In particular, the sequences were identical or very similar to sequences obtained previously from tortoises in It-aly. Since samples collected from different anatomical sites resulted positive, it is suggested that pools of conjunctival, nasal and oral swabs are tested for diagnostic purpose in both symptomatic and asymptomatic animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Currently, a standardised technique to obtain pulse rate in reptiles is lacking. We evaluated the feasibility of obtaining a temporoorbital pulse rate in ball pythons of various ages and sizes and whether it agreed with the heart rate. Methods: Heart rate and pulse rate were recorded in 40 ball pythons (Python regius) weighing between 0.05 and 2.2 kg using a standard veterinary ultrasonic Doppler flow detector. The temporoorbital pulse rate was obtained on the dorsal aspect of the head at the level of the temporoorbital artery. Each measurement was performed in a randomised fashion by two operators, who were blinded to each other's results. Results: Pulse rate and heart rate were successfully obtained for all snakes. The median heart rate was 60 beats per minute (bpm) (range 48‒88 bpm), and the median pulse rate was 60 bpm (range 48‒88 bpm). The mean difference between the pulse rate and heart rate was 1.2 beats (95% limits of agreement: ‒10.6 to 13.0). When pulse rate and heart rate were measured at the same time, they were synchronous. Limitations: Only healthy snakes were included. Conclusions: Temporoorbital pulse rates can be easily obtained in ball pythons of any size. This novel method to assess peripheral pulse allows for a more complete cardiovascular evaluation in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present report is to describe feasibility and gross postmortem results of oblique prefemoral ovariectomy in red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) performed by veterinarians in a teaching environment. Sixteen red-eared sliders were included in a teaching workshop. The turtles were anesthetized and placed in dorsolateral recumbency at an oblique 45-degree angle by use of folded towels. After prefemoral access to the celom and placement of a retractor with elastic bands, the ipsilateral follicles were exteriorized via gentle maneuvering with cotton tip applicators and excised after application of titanium clips and cautery with bipolar radiosurgery. On 14 of the 16 chelonians (87.5%) surgery was successfully completed. Of the two chelonians that did not have the surgical procedure completed, one had marked celomitis with adhesion of the ovaries to the liver and one had immature ovaries. At the end of the surgical procedures all chelonians were euthanized and postmortem was performed. The 14 chelonians that had surgery completed had no evident remaining ovarian tissue on gross postmortem. A survey completed by the attendants 9 mo after the workshop showed that a minority of the respondents (1/17) found the procedure difficult and that one of the seven respondents that performed the surgery after the workshop was not able to complete the procedure. This report indicates that oblique prefemoral ovariectomy in mature red-eared sliders can be effectively taught to veterinarians during a workshop, and that if the procedure is completed, the chances of leaving ovarian remnants are low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Honorary authorship refers to the practice of naming an individual who has made little or no contribution to a publication as an author. Honorary authorship inflates the output estimates of honorary authors and deflates the value of the work by authors who truly merit authorship. This manuscript presents the protocol for a systematic review that will assess the prevalence of five honorary authorship issues in health sciences. Methods: Surveys of authors of scientific publications in health sciences that assess prevalence estimates will be eligible. No selection criteria will be set for the time point for measuring outcomes, the setting, the language of the publication, and the publication status. Eligible manuscripts are searched from inception onwards in PubMed, Lens.org, and Dimensions.ai. Two calibrated authors will independently search, determine eligibility of manuscripts, and conduct data extraction. The quality of each review outcome for each eligible manuscript will be assessed with a 14-item checklist developed and piloted for this review. Data will be qualitatively synthesized and quantitative syntheses will be performed where feasible. Criteria for precluding quantitative syntheses were defined a priori. The pooled random effects double arcsine transformed summary event rates of five outcomes on honorary authorship issues with the pertinent 95% confidence intervals will be calculated if these criteria are met. Summary estimates will be displayed after back-transformation. Stata software (Stata Corporation, College Station, TX, USA) version 16 will be used for all statistical analyses. Statistical heterogeneity will be assessed using Tau2 and Chi2 tests and I2 to quantify inconsistency. Discussion: The outcomes of the planned systematic review will give insights in the magnitude of honorary authorship in health sciences and could direct new research studies to develop and implement strategies to address this problem. However, the validity of the outcomes could be influenced by low response rates, inadequate research design, weighting issues, and recall bias in the eligible surveys. Systematic review registration: This protocol was registered a priori in the Open Science Framework (OSF) link: https://osf.io/5nvar/. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To report the long‐term (>1 year) outcome of MicroPulse transscleral diode cyclophotocoagulation (MP‐TSCP) in dogs. Animals Studied: Client owned dogs that underwent MP‐TSCP at a veterinary referral center. Procedure: Retrospective study of 19 dogs treated with MP‐TSCP. Dogs were evaluated at a median follow‐up time of 30.5 months postoperatively. Reported outcomes were intraocular pressure (IOP), retention or loss of vision, number of medications, and additional procedures performed. Variables associated with time to treatment failure were evaluated. Results: Data from 19 dogs (24 eyes) was available. Median laser settings employed were 140 s and 2200 mW at 31.3% duty cycle. Long‐term postoperative IOP was lower than preoperative IOP values (14 mmHg (IQR = 22 mmHg, range: 4–52 mmHg) versus 30 mmHg (IQR = 31 mmHg, range: 8–62 mmHg), respectively). Laser settings >2000 mW were associated with a significantly longer time to reported failure. MP‐TSCP was the sole therapy performed in 16/24 eyes resulting in long‐term IOP control in 13/24 eyes and retention of vision in 6 of the 14 sighted eyes. Repeat MP‐TSCP was performed in 10/24 eyes. Eight of 24 eyes required additional procedures with long‐term IOP control in 4/8 eyes. Conclusions: MicroPulse transscleral diode cyclophotocoagulation can be an effective treatment for refractory glaucoma in select cases. Higher laser settings increased time to reported failure, whereas age, glaucoma type, and preoperative IOP did not affect survival. MP‐TSCP as sole therapy or coupled with additional glaucoma procedures controlled the IOP in 70% of cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Point‐of‐care (POC) analyzers are increasingly used for diagnostic testing in exotic animals. A few studies with small sample sizes, evaluating agreement between hematocrit (Hct) and packed cell volume (PCV) measurements in chelonians, showed conflicting results. Objective: We aimed to assess the agreement between Hct values measured with a POC analyzer and manual PCV measurements in venous samples from 148 chelonians. Methods: All chelonians that underwent bloodwork for clinical reasons had Hct measured with an analyzer employing electrical conductivity (i‐STAT, Abbott), PCVs measured using centrifugation, and total solids (TS) measured with refractometry. Bland‐Altman plots were built to assess agreement between the measurements. Generalized linear mixed models were used to determine the effect of different variables on the difference between Hct and PCV. Results: Of 192 chelonians sampled during this period, 148 had Hct, PCV, and TS results. Hct significantly underestimated PCV, with a mean difference between the techniques of −3.8% (95% CI: −4.5 to −3.2; LoA: −11.5 to 3.8). There was a negative correlation between the value of TS and the difference between the methods. Controlling for other factors, the magnitude of the disagreement was not affected by the sex of the chelonian but was smaller in red‐eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans). Conclusions: Hct values measured with electrical conductivity in chelonians significantly underestimated manual PCVs by about 4%. This difference should be considered whenever an Hct measured on a POC analyzer using electrical conductance is used in chelonian patient assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding marine animal stranding patterns can aid rehabilitation efforts and evaluations of ecosystem health. The goal of this retrospective study was to identify factors associated with outcome of marine animals presented to a rehabilitation facility in Brigantine, New Jersey, USA. Records of 4819 phocids, cetaceans, and sea turtles were reviewed. Taxa, age, sex, season, and outcome (natural death, euthanasia, transfer to another facility, and successful release) were recorded for each case. Binary logistic regression was employed to identify predictors associated with release, and a multivariate logistic regression model was developed to evaluate whether the association between taxa and chance of release persisted after adjustment for the other variables. Phocids were most likely to strand during winter. Phocids and sea turtles that stranded alive were more likely to be released than to die under care or be euthanized. Taxa, age, and season were all significantly associated with the probability of release. These results provide a reference for phocid, cetacean, and sea turtle stranding and rehabilitation in part of the mid-Atlantic region. Critical evaluation of wildlife rehabilitation is indicated to audit the success of efforts and to assess threats to free-ranging populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing popularity of viscoelastic coagulation analyzers, such as rotational thromboelastometry [ROTEM] and thromboelastography, the need for standardized methodology for appropriate interpretation has become increasingly important. Viscoelastic analysis is heavily influenced by a multitude of pre-analytic factors, both in vivo and in vitro, leading to a large amount of variation between institutions. We investigated the effect of room temperature during a 30-min sample rest time on ROTEM, which analyzed both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. We also evaluated the feasibility of using ROTEM to assess coagulation in non-anesthetized domestic rabbits. Rabbits were selected because they are a common companion animal that could benefit from the use of viscoelastic analysis for various disease processes that could lead to coagulopathies. Citrated whole blood was collected from 10 rabbits and allowed to rest upright for 30 min either at room temperature (~ 21°C) or in a tube warmer (37°C) before analysis. There was no significant difference in results between room temperature and warmed samples, which suggests that allowing samples to rest at room temperature is acceptable clinically. Additionally, blood collection and analysis were feasible in all rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has been characterized by an unprecedented amount of published scientific articles. The aim of this study is to assess the type of articles published during the first 3 months of the COVID-19 pandemic and to compare them with articles published during 2009 H1N1 swine influenza pandemic. Two operators independently extracted and assessed all articles on COVID-19 and on H1N1 swine influenza that had an abstract and were indexed in PubMed during the first 3 months of these pandemics. Of the 2482 articles retrieved on COVID-19, 1165 were included. Over half of them were secondary articles (590, 50.6%). Common primary articles were: human medical research (340, 59.1%), in silico studies (182, 31.7%) and in vitro studies (26, 4.5%). Of the human medical research, the vast majority were observational studies and cases series, followed by single case reports and one randomized controlled trial. Secondary articles were mainly reviews, viewpoints and editorials (373, 63.2%). Limitations were reported in 42 out of 1165 abstracts (3.6%), with 10 abstracts reporting actual methodological limitations. In a similar timeframe, there were 223 articles published on the H1N1 pandemic in 2009. During the COVID-19 pandemic there was a higher prevalence of reviews and guidance articles and a lower prevalence of in vitro and animal research studies compared with the H1N1 pandemic. In conclusions, compared to the H1N1 pandemic, the majority of early publications on COVID-19 does not provide new information, possibly diluting the original data published on this disease and consequently slowing down the development of a valid knowledge base on this disease. Also, only a negligible number of published articles reports limitations in the abstracts, hindering a rapid interpretation of their shortcomings. Researchers, peer reviewers, and editors should take action to flatten the curve of secondary articles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To describe the prevalence and the types of eye disorders that are known or presumed to be inherited (KP‐HED) in three small Italian dog breeds. Animals: Three small Italian dog breeds: Maltese, Bolognese, and Italian Greyhound. Procedures: All dogs of the breeds selected for this prospective observational study that underwent a complete ophthalmic examination between 1994 and 2015 were included. General and proportional KP‐HED prevalence with 95% confidence intervals were reported. Results: Three hundred and six of 462 dogs were affected by at least one KP‐HED (66.2%; 95% CI: 61.8%–70.4%). In the entire population, the five most common KP‐HED were cataract (n = 122; rate on the total number of KP‐HED: 31.4%), entropion (n = 56; 14.4%), keratoconjunctivitis sicca (n = 33; 8.5%), retinal dysplasia (n = 24; 6.2%), and persistent pupillary membrane (iris to iris) (n = 21; 5.4%). The most common KP‐HED in each breed were cataracts in the Maltese (35.1%) and in the Bolognese (24.2%), and presentation of vitreous in the anterior chamber in the Italian Greyhound (46.7%). Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware of KP‐HED that commonly affect three small Italian dog breeds. Breed standards should be reconsidered, and breeding programs should be directed at limiting such disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The royal python (Python regius) is commonly bred in captivity. To have a successful breeding season, accurate monitoring of the reproductive activity is necessary. The use of non-invasive monitoring methods in exotics is important in order to minimize stress. For this purpose ultrasound has been anecdotally used to monitor royal python reproductive activity. However, there is limited information regarding the reproductive cycle of this species. The aim of the present study is to monitor the female reproductive cycle of the royal python using ultrasonography and gonadal steroid metabolite measurements in the faeces. The reproductive activity of one hundred twenty-nine adult female P. regius was examined during two consecutive years. We performed brief scans on non-anaesthetized snakes using a portable ultrasound system and a 10–12 MHz linear array transducer (MyLab™ 30 Gold, Esaote). Ultrasound features, dimension and echogenicity of the reproductive structures were determined. During the second reproductive cycle, the hormonal profiles of 30 animals were also evaluated, with a monthly collection of faecal samples. These samples were classified according to reproductive stage, as identified by ultrasonographic examination, and the mean faecal progesterone and 17β-estradiol levels were calculated using the results from an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Progesterone levels increased during the reproductive cycle. Estradiol levels showed greater variability, although they appeared to increase before coupling when compared to the levels between coupling and egg laying. The present study suggests that it is possible to identify different phases in the female royal python reproductive cycle: anovulatory phase, transition, folliculogenesis and embryogenesis. Ultrasound is also useful for identifying follicular regression or slugs. Gonadal steroid metabolite measurements from the faeces could help integrate reproductive information. The use of ultrasonography in addition to the steroid metabolite measurement in the faeces gives an accurate picture of ovarian activity in captive adult female royal pythons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Synthesizing outcomes of underreported primary studies can pose a serious threat to the validity of outcomes and conclusions of systematic reviews. To address this problem, the Cochrane Collaboration recommends reviewers to contact authors of eligible primary studies to obtain additional information on poorly reported items. In this protocol, we present a cross-sectional study and a survey to assess (1) how reviewers of new Cochrane intervention reviews report on procedures and outcomes of contacting of authors of primary studies to obtain additional data, (2) how authors reply, and (3) the consequences of these additional data on the outcomes and quality scores in the review. All research questions and methods were pilot tested on 2 months of Cochrane reviews and were subsequently fine-tuned. Methods for the cross-sectional study: Eligibility criteria are (1) all new (not-updates) Cochrane intervention reviews published in 2016, (2) reviews that included one or more primary studies, and (3) eligible interventions refer to contacting of authors of the eligible primary studies included in the review to obtain additional research data (e.g., information on unreported or missing data, individual patient data, research methods, and bias issues). Searching for eligible reviews and data extraction will be conducted by two authors independently. The cross-sectional study will primarily focus on how contacting of authors is conducted and reported, how contacted authors reply, and how reviewers report on obtained additional data and their consequences for the review. Methods for the survey: The same eligible reviews for the cross-sectional study will also be eligible for the survey. Surveys will be sent to the contact addresses of these reviews according to a pre-defined protocol. We will use Google Forms as our survey platform. Surveyees are asked to answer eight questions. The survey will primarily focus on the consequences of contacting authors of eligible primary studies for the risk of bias and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation scores and the primary and secondary outcomes of the review. Discussion: The findings of this study could help improve methods of contacting authors and reporting of these procedures and their outcomes. Patients, clinicians, researchers, guideline developers, research sponsors, and the general public will all be beneficiaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To describe the epidemiology and the types of eye disorders that are presumed to be inherited ( PIED) in three large Italian dog breeds. Animals Three large Italian dog breeds: Neapolitan Mastiff ( FCI code: 197), Maremma Sheepdog ( FCI code: 201), and Italian Corso dog ( FCI code: 343). Procedures All dogs that underwent a complete ophthalmic examination between 1992 and 2012 were included in this prospective observational study. The prevalence of eye disorders with 95% confidence intervals was reported for presumed healthy dogs and for dogs referred to a veterinary center for an ophthalmic consultation. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression techniques were used to generate odds ratios. Results Of 605 dogs examined during the study period, 351 dogs were affected by at least one PIED (58%; 95% CI: 54-62%). The prevalence of PIED was significantly lower in dogs presented for ophthalmic examination (53.8%) as compared to presumed healthy dogs (62.2%)( OR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.02-1.9; P = 0.037). Also after multivariate adjustment for the period of observation, the odds of Neapolitan Mastiff (92.1%; OR: 21.4; 95% CI: 11.1-41.4) and of Cane Corso (57.7%; OR: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.7-3.6) suffering a PIED were greater than the Maremma Sheepdog (35.4%). The most common PIED in each breed were entropion (24.3% of all the PIED) in the Neapolitan Mastiff, ectropion (36.6%) in the Corso dog, and cataract (27.9%) in the Maremma Sheepdog. Conclusions Clinicians should be aware that three large Italian dog breeds frequently suffer PIED. Breed standards should be reconsidered, and breeding programs should be directed at limiting such disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate effectiveness and safety of debulking and diode laser photocoagulation (DPC) for the treatment of limbal melanoma (LM). Procedure Retrospective multi-institutional case series. Medical records of animals diagnosed with LM at the Centro Veterinario Specialistico (CVS) and at the Long Island Veterinary Specialists from 1994 to 2014 were retrieved. Signalment, location, extent of tumors, recurrence rate, and early and late complications were reported. Patient follow-up information was obtained from veterinary ophthalmologists, primary care veterinarians, and where appropriate, owners. Results Twenty-one eyes of 21 dogs (13 females and 8 males) were included in this study. The dogs' average age was 6 years (range: 7 months-11 years). The follow-up period ranged from 1-108 months (median 48 months) after the last DPC procedure. Long-term follow-up was obtained by telephone interviews in 6 of 20 cases and by clinical re-evaluations in 14 of 20 cases. The most common early complications were a moderate anterior uveitis and peripheral corneal edema (21/21 eyes). Late complications included corneal fibrosis and/or pigmentation (20/21). In one case, a severe bullous keratopathy associated with extensive corneal fibrosis was observed (1/21). One case was blind due to concurrent Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration (SARD). However, after surgery 2 of 20 eyes lost vision and one of these was enucleated. Conclusions Debulking, in addition to diode laser photocoagulation, was technically straightforward to perform, minimally invasive, well tolerated, and highly successful in this case series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intent of our research was to critically evaluate the information sources used to create a popular and world-renowned exotic animal formulary (Golden I et al i . We are certain that the editors of this formulary understand the significant risks involved when prescribing a drug that is not supported by validated research. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Numerous surveys have shown that orthodontic mini implants (OMIs) are underused in clinical practice. To investigate this implementation issue, we conducted a systematic review to (1) identify barriers and facilitators to the implementation of OMIs for all potential stakeholders and (2) quantify these implementation constructs, i.e., record their prevalence. We also recorded the prevalence of clinicians in the eligible studies that do not use OMIs. Methods: Methods were based on our published protocol. Broad-spectrum eligibility criteria were defined. A barrier was defined as any variable that impedes or obstructs the use of OMIs and a facilitator as any variable that eases and promotes their use. Over 30 databases including gray literature were searched until 15 January 2016. The Joanna Briggs Institute tool for studies reporting prevalence and incidence data was used to critically appraise the included studies. Outcomes were qualitatively synthesized, and meta-analyses were only conducted when pre-set criteria were fulfilled. Three reviewers conducted all research procedures independently. We also contacted authors of eligible studies to obtain additional information. Results: Three surveys fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Seventeen implementation constructs were identified in these studies and were extracted from a total of 165 patients and 1391 clinicians. Eight of the 17 constructs were scored by more than 50% of the pertinent stakeholders. Three of these constructs overlapped between studies. Contacting of authors clarified various uncertainties but was not always successful. Limitations of the eligible studies included (1) the small number of studies; (2) not defining the research questions, i.e., the primary outcomes; (3) the research design (surveys) of the studies and the exclusive use of closed-ended questions; (4) not consulting standards for identifying implementation constructs; (5) the lack of pilot testing; (6) high heterogeneity; (7) the risk of reporting bias; and (8) additional shortcomings. Meta-analyses were not possible because of these limitations. Two eligible studies found that respectively 56.3% (952/1691) and 40.16% (439/1093) of clinicians do not use OMIs. Conclusions: Notwithstanding the limitations of the eligible studies, their findings were important because (1) 17 implementation constructs were identified of which 8 were scored by more than 50% of the stakeholders; (2) the various shortcomings showed how to improve on future implementation studies; and (3) the underuse of OMIs in the selected studies and in the literature demonstrated the need to identify, quantify, and address implementation constructs. Prioritizing of future research questions on OMIs with all pertinent stakeholders is an important first step and could redirect research studies on OMIs towards implementation issues. Patients, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, insurance companies, implant companies, and research sponsors will all be beneficiaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most orthodontic mini-implants (OMIs) are inserted between dental roots. The prevalence of contacting these structures is high. Such contacts can cause permanent root damage and implant instability. Increased torque levels during implant insertion (the index test) could be a more accurate and immediate measure for diagnosing implant-root contact (the target condition) than radiographs (the reference standard) and could ultimately lead to a reduction or elimination of X-ray exposure. To address this issue, we asked three questions: (1) whether OMIs with root contact had higher insertion torque values than those without, (2) what is the accuracy of the index test compared with the reference standard to diagnose the target condition and what are the adverse effects of the index test, and (3) whether intermediate torque values have clinical diagnostic utility. Methods: Methods were conducted according to our published protocol, which was based on the PRISMA-P 2015 statement. We applied broad spectrum eligibility criteria that included randomized and non-randomized studies on clinical, animal, and cadaver models. Not including such models would be unethical because it could slow down knowledge creation on the adverse effects of implant insertion. We conducted searches in more than 40 electronic databases including MEDLINE and 10 journals were hand-searched. Grey literature and reference lists were also searched. All research procedures were conducted independently by three reviewers. Authors of selected studies were contacted to obtain additional information. Outcomes on the three different research models were analysed separately. Systematic error was assessed with the Cochrane 'Risk of bias tool' for non-randomized studies. Results: One clinical, two animal, and two cadaver studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria of the first research question. All studies and subgroups demonstrated higher insertion torque values for OMIs with the target condition than those without. Mean differences (MD) between these effect estimates were statistically significant in one beagle model (MD, 4.64; 95% CI, 3.50 to 5.79) and three subgroups of cadaver studies (MD, 2.70; 95% CI, 1.42 to 3.98) (MD, 3.97; 95% CI, 2.17 to 5.78) (MD, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.67 to 1.20). Highest mean differences were identified in most self-drilling compared with pre-drilling groups. Clinical heterogeneity between studies was high, and many items were underreported. All studies except one cadaver study scored at least one domain as 'serious risk' of bias. No studies addressed the second research question. One cadaver study addressed the third question which showed the importance of recording torque levels during the entire implant insertion process. Responses of contacted authors were helpful, but often difficult to obtain. Implants fractured in one animal and in one cadaver model. Conclusions: All eligible studies scored higher insertion torque values for implants with root contact than those without, but none of these studies assessed the diagnostic accuracy of the index test. The inclusion of non-randomized and animal and cadaver models in this systematic review provided key findings that otherwise would have been wasted. Such studies are important in the context of the wide applicability of this test, the high prevalence of the target condition, and the underreporting of adverse effects of interventions. A protocol for a potential new diagnostic pathway was presented, and the importance of contacting authors was addressed. The applicability of the findings should be interpreted in the context of underreporting and the many limitations of the included studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most orthodontic treatment plans need some form of anchorage to control the reciprocal forces of tooth movement. Orthodontic mini implants (OMIs) have been hailed for having revolutionized orthodontics, because they provide anchorage without depending on the collaboration of patients, they have a favorable effectiveness compared with conventional anchorage devices, and they can be used for a wide scale of treatment objectives. However, surveys have shown that many orthodontists never or rarely use them. To understand the rationale behind this knowledge-to-action gap, we will conduct a systematic review that will identify and quantify potential barriers and facilitators to the implementation of OMIs in clinical practice for all potential stakeholders, i.e., patients, family members, clinicians, office staff, clinic owners, policy makers, etc. The prevalence of clinicians that do not use OMIs will be our secondary outcome. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) 2015 Statement was adopted as the framework for reporting this manuscript. We will apply broad-spectrum search strategies and will search MEDLINE and more than 40 other databases. We will conduct searches in the gray literature, screen reference lists, and hand-search 12 journals. All study designs, stakeholders, interventions, settings, and languages will be eligible. We will search studies that report on barriers or facilitators to the implementation of orthodontic mini implants (OMIs) in clinical practice. Implementation constructs and their prevalence among pertinent stakeholders will be our primary outcomes. All searching and data extraction procedures will be conducted by three experienced reviewers. We will also contact authors and investigators to obtain additional information on data items and unidentified studies. Risk of bias will be scored with tools designed for the specific study designs. We will assess heterogeneity, meta-biases, and the robustness of the overall evidence of outcomes. We will present findings in a systematic narrative synthesis and plan meta-analyses when pertinent criteria are met. Discussion: Knowledge creation on this research topic could identify and quantify both expected and unexpected implementation constructs and their stakeholders. Such knowledge can help develop strategies to address implementation issues and redirect future studies on OMIs towards knowledge translation. This could lead to improved patient-health experiences and a reduction in research waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hermann’s tortoise (Testudo hermanni) is considered near threatened in the wild but, by contrast, it is one of the most popular pet tortoises in Europe. Scant data is reported in the veterinary literature on hematological values for T. hermanni and, to our knowledge, none focused on the subspecies boettgeri (eastern Hermann’s tortoise). Published reports are based on small sample populations, and confusion arises when comparing the sampling sites, the anticoagulants, and the counting methods used. The purpose of the current study was to establish the normal mean values and reference intervals for the main hematological parameters for captive adult T. hermanni boettgeri and to evaluate the reliability of a semiautomated blood analyzer for red blood cell count and hematocrit determination. Blood values were determined in 23 adult tortoises using a Neubauer chamber with Natt and Herrick solution; red blood cells and hematocrit were also measured using a semiautomated blood analyzer. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, differences between sexes, and agreement between the counting methods. Reference intervals were calculated with the robust method. Wilcoxon signed rank test with continuity correction was used to investigate differences between sexes, and Bland–Altman analysis was performed to compare manual versus semiautomated values. Red blood cells, hematocrit, and hemoglobin determinations were significantly higher in males than in females. White blood cell counts did not show any sex variability. The agreement of manual versus semiautomated determination was considered acceptable for clinical use. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background Hermann's tortoise, Testudo hermanni, is currently on the International Union for Conservation of Nature ( IUCN) red list of endangered species. Reptile medicine relies also on laboratory analyses to evaluate health status, but reference ranges for hematology and biochemistry variables and protein electrophoresis in plasma of healthy tortoises are not available. Objective The purposes of this study were to establish reference ranges for select hematologic and biochemical variables in clinically healthy Hermann's tortoises, and evaluate the impact of sex and season. Methods Blood samples were collected from 34 healthy tortoises at the end of September and beginning of July. Blood smears, HCT, concentrations of HGB and select plasma biochemical analytes, select enzyme activities, and plasma protein fractions were evaluated. Reference ranges were determined and checked for influence of sex and sampling time point. Results Typical reptilian RBC and WBC were observed in blood smears. HCT and concentrations of HGB, uric acid and urea, and ALT and AST activities were significantly higher in males than in females. Concentrations of glucose, uric acid, and phosphate, and AST activity were significantly higher at the beginning of July, whereas concentrations of urea and Cl were higher at the end of September prior to hibernation. The electrophoretic protein fractions included albumin, and α, β, and γ globulins. Conclusions The reference ranges defined in the present study are useful for clinical tortoise medicine and conservation. Sex and seasonal sampling were identified as factors significantly affecting hematology and blood chemistry analytes; they should be taken into consideration when assessing tortoise health status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background Contrast-enhanced diagnostic imaging techniques are considered useful in veterinary and human medicine to evaluate liver perfusion and focal hepatic lesions. Although hepatic diseases are a common occurrence in reptile medicine, there is no reference to the use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) to evaluate the liver in lizards. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the pattern of change in echogenicity and attenuation of the liver in green iguanas (Iguana iguana) after administration of specific contrast media. Results An increase in liver echogenicity and density was evident during CEUS and CECT, respectively. In CEUS, the mean ± SD (median; range) peak enhancement was 19.9% ± 7.5 (18.3; 11.7-34.6). Time to peak enhancement was 134.0 ± 125.1 (68.4; 59.6-364.5) seconds. During CECT, first visualization of the contrast medium was at 3.6 ± 0.5 (4; 3-4) seconds in the aorta, 10.7 ± 2.2 (10.5; 7-14) seconds in the hepatic arteries, and 15 ± 4.5 (14.5; 10-24) seconds in the liver parenchyma. Time to peak was 14.1 ± 3.4 (13; 11-21) and 31 ± 9.6 (29; 23-45) seconds in the aorta and the liver parenchyma, respectively. Conclusion CEUS and dynamic CECT are practical means to determine liver hemodynamics in green iguanas. Distribution of contrast medium in iguana differed from mammals. Specific reference ranges of hepatic perfusion for diagnostic evaluation of the liver in iguanas are necessary since the use of mammalian references may lead the clinician to formulate incorrect diagnostic suspicions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 1.85-kg, 6-yr-old, captive-bred, male boa constrictor (Boa constrictor imperator) was presented for lethargy, anorexia, postural abnormalities, and had an elongated mass on its ventrum, 20 cm distal to the snout. Clinical examination revealed a firm, nonmobile coelomic mass (4 cm x 2 cm) and loss of the righting reflex. Hematology showed a significant increase in white blood cells, lymphocytosis, and anemia. Cytologic examination of the blood smears showed the presence of lymphoid leukemia and eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusions consistent with inclusion body disease (IBD). Hyperphosphatemia was suggestive of renal failure. Radiography and ultrasound revealed a soft tissue mass at the level of the thymus proximal to, and distinct from, the heart. Cytology and postmortem histopathology confirmed the presence of a multicentric lymphoblastic lymphoma, lymphoid leukemia, and IBD. It remains unclear whether the neoplasms began their proliferation within the bone marrow or whether leukemia was a feature of disseminated, end-stage lymphoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Laser surgery is an attractive alternative to other means of section device in terms of tissue inflammation and interaction, which has been extensively used in human and veterinary medicine. Although accidental ignition during laser surgeries is sporadically reported in human medical literature, to the authors' knowledge this is the first report regarding laser-dependent fire ignition during surgery in veterinary medicine. Case presentation: Two rodents, a 13-month old, 27-gram, male pet mouse (Mus musculus) and a 1-year old, female Russian hamster (Phodopus sungorus), underwent surgical removal of masses with diode laser. During the surgical procedures fires ignited from the face masks. The mouse presented severe burns on the head and both forelimbs, it was hospitalized and approximately 2 months after surgery burns were resolved. The hamster presented severe burns on the face and the proximal regions of the body. At 72 hours from the accident the hamster was euthanized. Conclusion: The present report suggests that fire ignition is a potential life-threatening complication of laser surgery in non-intubated rodents maintained under volatile anesthesia. High oxygen concentrations, the presence of combustible, and the narrowness of the surgical field with the face mask during laser surgery on rodents are risk factors for fire ignition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]