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This retrospective study describes the use of ventral mandibular trepanation for extraction of diseased mandibular incisors in guinea pigs and evaluates the clinical outcome.In 40 guinea pigs with abnormal feed intake, at least one mandibular incisor was extracted via ventral mandibular trepanation. The diagnosis of primary mandibular incisor disease was based on the findings of the clinical general examination and intraoral and radiographic examination under general anesthesia. Following the procedure radiographs were taken and the patients were monitored and cared for as inpatients until discharge. Regular re-examinations were undertaken in order to assess and treat the surgical sites.A total of 42 altered mandibular incisors were extracted via ventral mandibular trepanation. Macrodonts (25/42) and periapical and alveolar changes (8/42) were the main reasons for extraction. Tooth residuals of unknown etiology (4/42) as well as such resulting from failed conventional extraction attempt using luxators (3/42) and traumatically loosened incisors (2/42) were also extracted. Tooth-associated jaw abscesses were found in 40 % of the guinea pigs. In addition, 40 % of the animals presented secondary elongation of the molars requiring occlusal equilibration. In all patients, it was possible to completely remove the altered incisors or residuals. On average, independent feed intake was observed 2 days after surgery and the animals were discharged. Complete healing of the surgical site was observed on average after 39 days (minimum 9 days, maximum 98 days). A total of 22 animals were evaluated 6 months following surgery and showed no further tooth-associated complaints.Ventral mandibular trepanation allows diseased mandibular incisors in guinea pigs to be removed entirely within one surgery and thus represents a curative procedure. Unlike the conventional extraction with luxators, it does not bear the risk of tooth fractures resulting in tooth fragments remaining in the alveolus.Diese retrospektive Studie beschreibt die Methode der ventralen Mandibulatrepanation zur Extraktion erkrankter Unterkieferinzisivi beim Meerschweinchen und evaluiert das klinische Outcome.Bei 40 Meerschweinchen mit veränderter Futteraufnahme wurde mindestens ein Unterkieferschneidezahn via ventraler Mandibulatrepanation extrahiert, nachdem Befunde der klinischen Allgemeinuntersuchung sowie der intraoralen und radiologischen Untersuchung in Allgemeinanästhesie die Diagnose einer primären mandibulären Inzisivuserkrankung ergeben hatten. Nach dem Eingriff wurden Röntgenaufnahmen angefertigt und die Patienten bis zur Entlassung stationär überwacht und versorgt. Zur Beurteilung und Behandlung der Wunden erfolgten regelmäßige Kontrollen.Bei den insgesamt 42 extrahierten Unterkieferinzisivi stellten Makrodonten (25/42) den häufigsten Extraktionsgrund dar, gefolgt von periapikalen und alveolären Veränderungen (8/42). Extrahiert wurden ferner Zahnresiduen unklarer Genese (4/42) sowie nach fehlgeschlagenem konventionellem Extraktionsversuch mittels Luxatoren (3/42) und traumatisch bedingt gelockerte Inzisivi (2/42). Bei jeweils 40 % (16/42) der Meerschweinchen lagen zahnassoziierte Kieferabszesse bzw. eine therapiebedürftige sekundäre Elongation der Backenzähne vor. Allen Patienten konnten die veränderten Inzisivi bzw. Residuen vollständig entfernt werden. Durchschnittlich 2 Tagen nach dem Eingriff nahmen die Tiere eigenständig Futter auf und konnten entlassen werden. Die Ausheilung der Wunde war nach durchschnittlich 39 Tagen (Minimum 9 Tage, Maximum 98 Tage) festzustellen. Die 22 Tiere, die 6 Monate nach dem Eingriff nachuntersucht werden konnten, wiesen keine erneuten zahnassoziierten Erkrankungen auf.Die ventrale Mandibulatrepanation ermöglicht es, erkrankte Unterkieferinzisivi beim Meerschweinchen in toto in einer Operation zu entfernen und stellt somit einen kurativen Eingriff dar. Im Gegensatz zur klassischen Extraktion mit Luxatoren birgt sie nicht das Risiko von Zahnfrakturen mit der Folge verbleibender Zahnfragmente in der Alveole.

Simulation of hypoxic processes in vitro can be achieved through cobalt chloride (CoCl2), which induces strong neurodegeneration. Hypoxia plays an important role in the progression of several retinal diseases. Thus, we investigated whether hypoxia can be reduced by hypothermia. Porcine retinal explants were cultivated for four and eight days and hypoxia was mimicked by adding 300 µM CoCl2 from day one to day three. Hypothermia treatment (30 °C) was applied simultaneously. Retinal ganglion, bipolar and amacrine cells, as well as microglia were evaluated via immunohistological and western blot analysis. Furthermore, quantitative real-time PCR was performed to analyze cellular stress and apoptosis. In addition, the expression of specific marker for the previously described cell types were investigated. A reduction of ROS and stress markers HSP70, iNOS, HIF-1α was achieved via hypothermia. In accordance, an inhibition of apoptotic proteins (caspase 3, caspase 8) and the cell cycle arrest gene p21 was found in hypothermia treated retinae. Furthermore, neurons of the inner retina were protected by hypothermia. In this study, we demonstrate that hypothermia lowers hypoxic processes and cellular stress. Additionally, hypothermia inhibits apoptosis and protects neurons. Hence, this seems to be a promising treatment for retinal neurodegeneration.

Zusammenfassung Ziel Übersichtsarbeit zur Darstellung des Krankheitsbildes der Magendrehung beim Meerschweinchen. Material und Methoden Vier klinische Fälle einer Magendrehung beim Meerschweinchen wurden hinsichtlich des klinischen Bildes und der diagnostischen Möglichkeiten betrachtet. Es erfolgte eine Darstellung von Therapieversuchen und möglicher Alternativen. Potenzielle Risikofaktoren für die Erkrankung sowie deren Ätiologie und Pathophysiologie wurden diskutiert und mit den Verhältnissen bei anderen Tierarten verglichen. Ergebnisse Anhand der dargestellten Fälle wird deutlich, dass neben der Anamnese und klinischen Untersuchung die Röntgenuntersuchung das Mittel der Wahl zur Diagnose einer Magendrehung beim Meerschweinchen darstellt. In allen vier Fällen erfolgte nach der Diagnose ein chirurgischer Therapieversuch. Ein Tier wurde intraoperativ euthanasiert, drei Patienten verstarben nach der Operation. Schlussfolgerung und klinische Relevanz Die Magendrehung beim Meerschweinchen ist als absoluter Notfall einzustufen. Neben der sofortigen Stabilisierung des Patienten bedarf es fast immer einer chirurgischen Intervention. Die Prognose der Erkrankung ist als vorsichtig bis schlecht einzustufen.

In this study, we present a detailed phenotype description and genetic elucidation of the first case of X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia in the shorthaired standard Dachshund. This condition is characterized by partial congenital hypotrichosis, missing and malformed teeth and a lack of eccrine sweat glands. Clinical signs including dental radiographs and histopathological findings were consistent with ectodermal dysplasia. Pedigree analysis supported an X-recessive mode of inheritance. Whole-genome sequencing of one affected puppy and his dam identified a 1-basepair deletion within the ectodysplasin-A (EDA) gene (CM000039.3:g.54509504delT, c.458delT). Sanger sequencing of further family members confirmed the EDA:c.458delT-variant. Validation in all available family members, 37 unrelated shorthaired standard Dachshunds, 128 further Dachshunds from all other coat and size varieties and samples from 34 dog breeds revealed the EDA:c.458delT-variant to be private for this family. Two heterozygous females showed very mild congenital hypotrichosis but normal dentition. Since the dam is demonstrably the only heterozygous animal in the ancestry of the affected animals, we assume that the EDA:c.458delT-variant arose in the germline of the granddam or in an early embryonic stage of the dam. In conclusion, we detected a very recent de-novo EDA mutation causing X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia in the shorthaired standard Dachshund.

Magnetic resonance imaging revealed spinal cord compression due to intervertebral disc herniation of Hansen type I and II in the thoracolumbar vertebral column in two middle-aged coatis (Zwei Nasenbären mittleren Alters wurden aufgrund einer chronisch progressiven Paraparese vorgestellt. Mittels Magnetresonanztomographie ließ sich jeweils eine durch einen thorakolumbalen Bandscheibenvorfall (Hansen Typ I bzw. II) verursachte Rückenmarkskompression nachweisen. Die chirurgische Dekompression erfolgte in einem Fall mittels Hemilaminektomie und einer partiellen Korpektomie, im zweiten Fall durch eine dorsale Laminektomie. Beide Nasenbären hatten eine komplikationslose Genesungsphase. Ein Tier zeigte 6 und 15 Monate nach der Operation ein unauffälliges Gangbild, während das zweite Tier später aufgrund einer erneut auftretenden Paraparese und progressiver klinischer Verschlechterung 20 Monate nach dem ersten operativen Eingriff euthanasiert wurde. Bei der pathologischen Untersuchung wurde Narbengewebe festgestellt, das das Rückenmark komprimierte. Die histopathologischen Befunde eines Rückenmarkstraumas und die degenerativen Bandscheibenveränderungen waren vergleichbar mit Befunden bei Hunden. Erstmals werden hier das klinische Bild und die erfolgreiche Therapie chronischer Bandscheibenvorfälle sowie Bildung kompressiven Narbengewebes als mögliche Komplikation beim Nasenbären beschrieben.

Background Metoclopramide (MCP) is a dopamine D2 -receptor antagonist, mainly used to treat post-operative or chemotherapy-induced nausea. While it is very effective in the cure of gastric symptoms, MCP can cause severe neurologic side effects. Furthermore, there is growing evidence for severe arrhythmic side effects resulting from inhibitory effects on cardiac sodium and potassium channels. Methods and results Thirteen hearts of New Zealand white rabbits were retrogradely perfused, and electrophysiology studies were performed to obtain action potential duration (APD90 ) and effective refractory period (ERP). After generating baseline data, the hearts were perfused with increasing concentrations of metoclopramide (MCP 10 µM, MCP 50 µM, MCP 100 µM) and the standardized protocol was repeated for each concentration. Perfusion with MCP resulted in a significant prolongation of APD90 and QT interval. In parallel, the incidence of ventricular tachycardias was significantly increased by high doses of MCP. Conclusion This is the first experimental study that investigated the effect of increasing doses of metoclopramide on a sensitive whole-heart model of proarrhythmia. MCP led to a significant increase in action potential duration and QT interval; meanwhile, the number of ventricular tachycardias was significantly increased.

Tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) is a noninvasive sonographic method of acquiring and quantifying myocardial velocities. This technique is used in human and small animal medicine to diagnose cardiac diseases. Using this technique, we evaluated the longitudinal myocardial peak velocities of the interventricular septum, and the left and right ventricular free walls in the systole and diastole in 40 racing pigeons. The TDI examinations confirmed the movement of the heart base toward the apex in the systole and away from the apex in the diastole. Inhomogeneous distribution of the myocardial velocities with a statistically significant velocity gradient from the basal to the apical myocardial segments was found. The left and right free walls have significantly higher myocardial velocities than the myocardium of the septum. The myocardial velocities during active ventricular filling were significantly higher in the right ventricular free wall than in the left one. The validation of the method resulted in coefficients of variation between 3% and 33% for the systolic and 3% and 75% for the diastolic individual myocardial velocities. Weekly repeated measurements resulted in variation coefficients between 3% and 45% for systolic and diastolic myocardial velocities, respectively.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic calls for the rapid development of diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic approaches. CD4+ and CD8+ T cell-mediated immunity is central for control of and protection from viral infections[1-3]. A prerequisite to characterize T-cell immunity, but also for the development of vaccines and immunotherapies, is the identification of the exact viral T-cell epitopes presented on human leukocyte antigens (HLA)[2-8]. This is the first work identifying and characterizing SARS-CoV-2-specific and cross-reactive HLA class I and HLA-DR T-cell epitopes in SARS-CoV-2 convalescents (n = 180) as well as unexposed individuals (n = 185) and confirming their relevance for immunity and COVID-19 disease course. SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cell epitopes enabled detection of post-infectious T-cell immunity, even in seronegative convalescents. Cross-reactive SARS-CoV-2 T-cell epitopes revealed preexisting T-cell responses in 81% of unexposed individuals, and validation of similarity to common cold human coronaviruses provided a functional basis for postulated heterologous immunity[9] in SARS-CoV-2 infection[10,11]. Intensity of T-cell responses and recognition rate of T-cell epitopes was significantly higher in the convalescent donors compared to unexposed individuals, suggesting that not only expansion, but also diversity spread of SARS-CoV-2 T-cell responses occur upon active infection. Whereas anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels were associated with severity of symptoms in our SARS-CoV-2 donors, intensity of T-cell responses did not negatively affect COVID-19 severity. Rather, diversity of SARS-CoV-2 T-cell responses was increased in case of mild symptoms of COVID-19, providing evidence that development of immunity requires recognition of multiple SARS-CoV-2 epitopes. Together, the specific and cross-reactive SARS-CoV-2 T-cell epitopes identified in this work enable the identification of heterologous and post-infectious T-cell immunity and facilitate the development of diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic measures for COVID-19.

T cell immunity is central for the control of viral infections. To characterize T cell immunity, but also for the development of vaccines, identification of exact viral T cell epitopes is fundamental. Here we identify and characterize multiple dominant and subdominant SARS-CoV-2 HLA class I and HLA-DR peptides as potential T cell epitopes in COVID-19 convalescent and unexposed individuals. SARS-CoV-2-specific peptides enabled detection of post-infectious T cell immunity, even in seronegative convalescent individuals. Cross-reactive SARS-CoV-2 peptides revealed pre-existing T cell responses in 81% of unexposed individuals and validated similarity with common cold coronaviruses, providing a functional basis for heterologous immunity in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Diversity of SARS-CoV-2 T cell responses was associated with mild symptoms of COVID-19, providing evidence that immunity requires recognition of multiple epitopes. Together, the proposed SARS-CoV-2 T cell epitopes enable identification of heterologous and post-infectious T cell immunity and facilitate development of diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic measures for COVID-19.

In avian medicine, Doppler sonographic techniques are used to visualize and estimate blood flow in the heart. In the literature there is a lack of standardized studies of the use of color Doppler flow on healthy avian species. For this purpose, we examined blood flow in the heart in the four-chamber view of clinically healthy awake racing pigeons (n = 43) by color flow Doppler sonography. With this technique the diastolic and systolic blood flow in the heart chambers and the heart valve regions were well visualized. However, the pulse repetition frequency must be adapted to the specific blood flow velocities of the heart region to be measured to reduce aliasing in higher velocities and to visualize blood flow of lower velocities. With the help of color Doppler imaging in the four-chamber view, typical physiological atrial and ventricular blood flow vortex formations were visualized in the avian heart for the first time. In the left ventricle an asymmetric vortex ring in the passive and active ventricular filling, in the right ventricle a great counter-clockwise blood vortex in the active ventricular filling, in the left atrium a vortex clockwise, and in the right atrium counter-clockwise were observed. The knowledge of these physiological blood flow vortices is important to identify pathological blood flow.

Background Munchkin cats were founded on a naturally occurring mutation segregating into long-legged and short-legged types. Short-legged cats showed disproportionate dwarfism (chondrodysplasia) in which all four legs are short and are referred as standard Munchkin cats. Long-legged animals are referred as non-standard Munchkin cats. A previous study using genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for genome-wide association analysis identified a significantly associated region at 168–184 Mb on feline chromosome (FCA) B1. Results In this study, we validated the critical region on FCA B1 using a case-control study with 89 cats and 14 FCA B1-SNPs. A structural variant within UGDH (NC_018726.2:g.173294289_173297592delins108, Felis catus 8.0, equivalent to NC_018726.3:g.174882895_174886198delins108, Felis catus 9.0) on FCA B1 was perfectly associated with the phenotype of short-legged standard Munchkin cats. Conclusion This UGDH structural variant very likely causes the chondrodysplastic (standard) phenotype in Munchkin cats. The lack of homozygous mutant phenotypes and reduced litter sizes in standard Munchkin cats suggest an autosomal recessive lethal trait in the homozygote state. We propose an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance for the chondrodysplastic condition in Munchkin cats.

Background Fracture and hemorrhagic shock often lead to impaired fracture healing. To elucidate underlying pathogenesis, this study aimed to analyze histological properties during fracture healing after hemorrhagic shock and involved signaling pathways in mice. Methods Male C57BL/6NCrl mice were assigned into five groups. Control group underwent no interventions. Sham group had a catheter and external fixator but neither blood loss nor osteotomy. Trauma-hemorrhage (TH) group received a pressure-controlled hemorrhagic shock; osteotomy (Fx) group, an osteotomy and fixator; and combined trauma (THFx) group, both hemorrhagic shock and externally fixed osteotomy. After 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks, the animals were killed. Undecalcified bones were analyzed histologically and signaling pathways relevant for fracture healing by polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Statistical significance was set at 0.05 or less. Comparisons were performed using the Mann-Whitney U or Kruskal-Wallis test. Results In the THFx group, a decreased bone formation after 3 weeks, a reduction of both bone and cartilage after 2 weeks, and an enhanced activation of the RANKL/OPG and IL6 signaling pathway after 1 week were shown in comparison to Fx. Conclusions Hemorrhagic shock has a retarding effect on fracture healing in the early phase of fracture healing and leads to activation of the IL6 and RANKL/OPG signaling pathways.

The ventricular filling velocities during diastole and the influence of isoflurane anesthesia on these blood flow velocities of the racing pigeon (n = 43) are evaluated by pulsed-wave (PW) Doppler sonography. Sonographic examination demonstrates an early passive ventricular (E wave) and late active (A wave) ventricular filling. The results indicate differences between the two heart ventricles. Especially, the E wave velocity of the right heart is significantly lower than in the left heart, which is explained by the crescent-shaped cavity of the right ventricle around the left ventricle. The faster active filling velocities are significantly influenced by heart rate in conscious birds. Anesthesia with isoflurane leads to a significant decrease of the diastolic blood flow velocities, and the A wave velocities of both ventricles are especially influenced. Anesthesia with isoflurane induces a high incidence of insufficiencies of the left atrioventricular valve in the preejection period. These observations indicate that a contraction of the left ventricle myocardium is important for a complete valvular closure and for normal functioning of this heart valve. The effective closure of the right atrioventricular muscle valve in anesthetized pigeons supports the observation of the fast innervation of this muscle valve via a direct connection to the right atrium.

A 4-year-old male Eurasian Dog presented at our veterinary clinic with a history of perpetual forelimb lameness in both thoracic limbs. In the clinical exploration, direct pressure over the infraspinatus tendon of insertion caused pain in both thoracic forelimbs and a firm band-like structure was palpable. No improvement was observed after treatment with rest, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and an intralesional injection of a long-acting glucocorticoid. Radiographic examination, ultrasonographic exploration and computed tomography were performed, identifying ossified structures lateral to the proximal humerus and an irregular roughened periosteum at the insertion and tendon of the infraspinatus muscle on both sides. There were more distinct alterations on the right thoracic limb. The imaging results led to a diagnosis of an infraspinatus tendon-bursa ossification accompanied by a chronic tendinopathy/tendovaginitis, accentuated on the right side. The dog was subjected to physiotherapy and autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) was injected into the insertion of the infraspinatus muscle of both thoracic limbs. After 5 months of physiotherapy and two injections of ACP with an interval of one week in both forelimbs, the dog showed no signs of lameness. This case report describes the diagnosis and management of infraspinatus tendon-bursa ossification in a Eurasian Dog. To the authors' knowledge, this condition has previously not been described in this breed of dog.Ein 4-jähriger, männlicher Eurasier wurde in unserer Kleintierklinik mit dem Vorbericht einer Lahmheit beider Vordergliedmaßen vorgestellt. Bei der klinischen Untersuchung konnte beidseits eine Verhärtung der Ansatzsehne des M. infraspinatus palpiert werden, die bei Ausübung von Druck eine schmerzhafte Reaktion hervorrief. Eine Vorbehandlung mit Ruhighaltung, nichtsteroidalen Antiphlogistika und der lokalen Injektion eines lang wirkenden Glukokortikoids hatte keine Besserung der Symptomatik erbracht. Bei der bildgebenden Diagnostik mittels Röntgen, Ultraschall und Computertomographie stellten sich beidseits Mineralisierungen lateral des proximalen Humerus und irregulär aufgerautes Periost am Ansatz und der Sehne des M. infraspinatus dar. Die rechte Vordergliedmaße zeigte stärkere Veränderungen als die linke. Die Ergebnisse der Bildgebung führten zu der Diagnose einer beidseitigen, rechts ausgeprägteren Ossifikation der Sehne und der Bursa des M. infraspinatus, begleitet von einer chronischen Tendinopathie/Tendovaginitis. Der Hund wurde mit Physiotherapie und beidseitigen Injektionen von autologem konditioniertem Plasma (ACP) in den Ansatz des M. infraspinatus behandelt. Nach 5 Monaten Physiotherapie sowie zwei ACP-Injektionen im Abstand von einer Woche war der Hund lahmheitsfrei. Dieser Fallbericht beschreibt die Diagnose und Therapie der Ossifikation der Sehne und der Bursa des M. infraspinatus bei einem Eurasier. Nach Kenntnisstand der Autoren wurde diese Erkrankung bisher nicht bei Hunden dieser Rasse beschrieben.

A 1-year-old dwarf rabbit was presented with sub-acute progressive tetraparesis. Radiography, CT and MRI revealed compressive cervical myelopathy secondary to a complex atlanto-axial malformation including partial aplasia of the atlantal dorsal arch, dens malformation, malarticulation and lateral atlanto-occipital displacement. Owners decided against surgical treatment and elected conservative treatment including analgesia with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cage rest and physiotherapy. Within 2 months clinical signs deteriorated and the owner elected euthanasia. Subsequent necropsy confirmed imaging findings. Similar cases described in humans and dogs suggest that partial aplasia of the dorsal arch of the atlas might often be an asymptomatic radiologic finding in these species. In contrast, this first description of a similarly affected rabbit demonstrates that complex atlanto-axial malformations can cause severe clinical signs.

Multiple trauma is frequently associated with hemorrhagic shock and fractures of the extremities. Clinically, the rate of impaired fracture healing (delayed healing and nonunion) seems to be increased in patients with multiple injuries compared with patients with isolated fractures. As the underlying pathogenesis remains poorly understood, we aimed to analyze the biomechanical properties during fracture healing in a murine model. The aim of this study was to determine whether fracture healing after severe hemorrhagic shock results in (1) delayed bridging as determined by macroscopic and radiographic assessment, (2) altered conditions of callus components as determined by µCT, and (3) decreased maximum bending moment measured by a three-point-bending test compared with ordinary fracture healing. Male C57BL/6NCrl mice were randomly assigned to five groups and four different times (five to 10 mice per group and time). Only the right femur from each mouse was used for analysis: the trauma hemorrhage (TH) group received a pressure-controlled hemorrhagic shock via catheter; the osteotomy (Fx) group underwent osteotomy and implantation of an external fixator on the right femur; the combined trauma (THFx) group received hemorrhagic shock and an external fixator with osteotomy; the sham group underwent implantation of a catheter and external fixator but had no blood loss or osteotomy, and the control group underwent no interventions. After 2, 3, 4, or 6 weeks, five to 10 animals of each group were sacrificed. Bones were analyzed macroscopically and via radiographs, µCT, and three-point-bending test. Statistical significance was set at a probability less than 0.05. Comparisons were performed using the Mann-Whitney U or the Kruskal-Wallis test. In the Fx group, the osteotomy gap was stable and bridged after 2 weeks in contrast to some bones in the THFx group where stable bridging did not occur. No difference was observed between the groups. µCT analysis showed reduced density of bone including callus (THFx: 1.17 g/cm3; interquartile range [IQR], 0.04 g/cm3; Fx: 1.22 g/cm3; IQR, 0.04 g/cm3; p = 0.002; difference of medians [DM], −0.048; 95% CI, −0.073 to −0.029) and increased share of callus per volume of bone mass (%) after 2 weeks in the THFx group compared with the Fx group (THFx: 44.16%; IQR, 8.66%; Fx: 36.73%; IQR, 4.39%; p = 0.015; DM, 7.634; 95% CI, 2.018–10.577). The three-point-bending test established a decreased maximum bending moment in the THFx group compared with the Fx group 2 weeks after surgery (THFx: 7.10 Nmm; IQR, 11.25 Nmm; Fx: 11.25 Nmm; IQR, 5.70 Nmm; p = 0.026; DM, −5.043; 95% CI, −10.867 to −0.74). No differences were observed between the THFx and Fx groups after more than 2 weeks. In this in vivo mouse fracture model, we conclude that hemorrhagic shock retards fracture healing during the early phase of the facture healing process. A severe hemorrhagic shock in patients could result in initial delayed fracture healing and needs special attention. We plan to conduct a prospective, observational clinical research study to analyze if delayed fracture healing occurs in patients after severe blood loss.

Dieser Artikel gibt eine Übersicht über die Symptome bei Otitiden des Kaninchens sowie die anatomischen Besonderheiten des Kaninchenohrs und veranschaulicht verschiedene Möglichkeiten der Diagnostik. Neben der medikamentösen Therapie werden die laterale und totale Gehörgangsresektion sowie die laterale und ventrale Bullaosteotomie als chirurgische Therapien bei chronischer Otitis des Kaninchens dargestellt.

Obwohl Frettchen (Mustela putorius furo) ursprünglich Europäer sind, bringen sie mit ihrer quirligen und lustigen Art etwas Exotik in die heimischen Wohnzimmer. Bei aller Ähnlichkeit zu Hund und Katze sollte man dennoch nicht vergessen, dass Frettchen Tiere mit spezifischen Ansprüchen sind, die Tierbesitzer und Tierärzte vor Herausforderungen stellen. Aufklärung, Beratung und Prävention sind demnach insbesondere in Bezug auf vermeidbare Erkrankungen durch Fütterungs- oder Haltungsfehler enorm wichtig.

The calcium sensitizer levosimendan is clinically employed in decompensated heart failure. The aim of the present study was to assess effects of levosimendan on atrial electrophysiology in an experimental whole-heart model.13 rabbit hearts were isolated and Langendorff-perfused. Thereafter, hearts were paced at cycle lengths of 350ms, 250ms and 200ms in the atrium. A standardized protocol employing atrial burst pacing induced atrial fibrillation (AF) in 4 of 13 hearts under baseline conditions (mean: 3.3±2.1 episodes). Subsequently, levosimendan was administered in two concentrations (0.25μM, 0.5μM). Two monophasic action potential recordings on the left- and two on the right atrial epicardium displayed a decrease of atrial action potential duration (aAPD, -27ms, p0.05) and atrial effective refractory period (aERP; -29ms, p0.05) under the influence of 0.5μM levosimendan. The described alterations of atrial electrophysiology led to and increased inducibility of AF. Of note, treatment with 0.25μM levosimendan resulted in induction of AF in 11 of 13 hearts (mean: 8.9±3.5 episodes). Under the influence of 0.5μM levosimendan 12 of 13 hearts were inducible (mean: 9.8±3.8 episodes).In the present study acute infusion of levosimendan in isolated rabbit hearts resulted in an abbreviation of atrial action potential duration and a reduction of aERP. This led to a significantly elevated inducibility of atrial fibrillation. These results suggest a proarrhythmic effect of levosimendan regarding atrial fibrillation. This aspect should be further investigated in the clinical setting.

Ivabradine is an inhibitor of mixed NaIn 12 isolated rabbit hearts AF was induced in 7 of 12 hearts (13 episodes) under baseline conditions by a standardized protocol employing atrial burst pacing. Thereafter, a combination of acetylcholine and isoproterenol was employed to enhance AF occurrence. Monophasic action potential recordings showed a decrease of atrial action potential duration (aAPD,-37ms, p0.05) and atrial effective refractory period (aERP;-39ms, p0.05) after infusion of both acetycholine (1μM) and isoproterenol (1μM) as compared with baseline. This led to induction of AF in 11 of 12 hearts (124 episodes). Simultaneous infusion of ivabradine (3μM) led to a significant reduction of AF (6 of 11 hearts, 63 episodes). Ivabradine induced an increase of aAPD (+9ms) and aERP (+30ms, p0.05) leading to a marked increase of atrial post-repolarization refractoriness (aPRR), defined as the difference of aERP and aAPD (+21ms, p0.05). Results were compared to 10 rabbits treated with flecainide. Flecainide treatment also induced a significant increase of aPRR and resulted in induction of AF in 6 of 10 hearts (58 episodes) while 9 of 10 hearts were inducible during sole treatment with acetylcholine and isoproterenol (129 episodes).In the present experimental study, administration of ivabradine reduced inducibility of AF and therefore may represent a supplemental therapeutic option in AF. Of note, its antiarrhythmic efficacy was comparable to the established agent flecainide.

This report describes the history, clinical examination and histopathology of a histiocytic sarcoma in a domestic ferret. Clinical signs were acute paraplegia and dysuria. Physical examination revealed a firm, smooth, touch-sensitive mass in and around the lumbar vertebral column. Neurologic examination was consistent with a lesion between spinal cord segments T3 and L3. Magnetic resonance images revealed bone lesions of L2 and L3 combined with compression of the spinal cord due to a homogenous, isointense mass that was diagnosed as a malignant round cell tumour and the ferret was euthanased. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of an infiltrative histiocytic sarcoma.

SummaryObjective: To evaluate two different protocols of cold compression therapy (CCT) for pain management and functional recovery in dogs undergoing tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO). Material and methods: A total of 27 adult dogs (n = 30 stifles; staged bilateral procedures: n = 3) undergoing routine TPLO were randomly allocated to three groups (n = 10/group). Dogs of group I received CCT once before and immediately after surgery. In dogs of group II CCT was performed postoperatively four times at 6-hour intervals. Dogs of the control group did not receive CCT. Circumference of the stifle joint and the following pain-related parameters were measured by a single blinded observer before surgery and 1, 10 and 42 days after surgery: stifle joint range of motion (ROM), subjective degree of lameness, and score of a modified Glasgow Pain Scale (GPS). Results: Both CCT groups showed significantly greater ROM and lower GPS scores 24 hours after surgery compared to the control group. Ten days after surgery there was a significantly lower degree of lameness in both CCT groups compared to the control group. Fourty-two days after surgery a significantly greater ROM was observed in both CCT groups compared to the control group. Group II also showed a significant improvement in the degree of lameness and GPS. There were no significant differences in any of the parameters between the two CCT groups at any time point. Conclusion: CCT applied preoperatively and immediately postoperatively showed similar short- and long-term beneficial results compared to a previously established protocol of applying CCT four times postoperatively. This protocol may be more suitable for practical use. Clinical significance: The reported data can be used to establish the new protocol of CCT in a clinical surrounding and to support postoperative rehabilitation of the canine patient.

Zusammenfassung Gegenstand und Ziel: Tumoren der Nieren kommen nicht nur bei Hunden und Katzen, sondern scheinbar auch bei Meerschweinchen selten vor und können zudem schwierig zu diagnostizieren sein. Ziel dieses Beitrags ist, die klinischen, pathomorphologischen und immunhistochemischen Befunde bei Nierentumoren von Meerschweinchen zu beschreiben. Zudem werden Symptome, diagnostische Möglichkeiten und Therapie renaler Tumoren mit der Situation bei anderen Kleintieren wie Hund und Katze verglichen. Material und Methoden: In einem Zeitraum von 4 Jahren und 4 Monaten wurden retrospektiv die Daten der in der Klinik vorgestellten Meerschweinchen ausgewertet, bei denen eine pathologisch-anatomische und histopathologische Untersuchung erfolgte und eine renale Neoplasie diagnostiziert werden konnte. Ergebnisse: Ein Nierentumor war bei vier Meerschweinchen nachweisbar. Der Anteil renaler Neoplasien bezogen auf die insgesamt sezierten Tierkörper und von Meerschweinchen stammenden Organe betrug 4,7 % und an den insgesamt diagnostizierten Tumoren der Bauch- und Beckenhöhle 30,7 %. Nach den histopathologischen und immunhistochemischen Befunden handelte es sich in allen vier Fällen um renale pleomorphe Sarkome. Bei zwei der vier Meerschweinchen wurde die von anderen Kleintieren wie Hund und Katze bekannte klassische Trias einer tumorösen Erkrankung der Niere (Gewichtsverlust, abdominale Masse und Hämaturie) beobachtet. Allen vier Fällen gemeinsam war eine im Bereich der Nieren palpierbare auffällig große, scheinbar schmerzhafte abdominale Masse. Röntgenologisch ließ sich in drei Fällen der Verdacht auf eine Umfangsvermehrung einer Niere bestätigen, bei zwei Tieren wurde der renale Ursprung der Masse durch Ultraschalluntersuchung ermittelt. Schlussfolgerung und klinische Relevanz: Da es sich um eine Schmerzen verursachende Erkrankung handelt und von Nierentumoren bei Haustieren ein hohes Metastasierungsrisiko ausgeht, sollte unter der Voraussetzung einer nicht vorliegenden Azotämie möglichst zeitnah eine Nephrektomie erfolgen.

Several studies suggest QT prolongation and torsade de pointes with acetylcholine-esterase inhibitors. We therefore examined the electrophysiologic profile of donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine in a sensitive whole-heart model of proarrhythmia. 34 rabbit hearts were isolated and retrogradely perfused employing the Langendorff setup. Hearts were treated either with donepezil, rivastigmine, or galantamine in rising concentrations and electrophysiologic studies were performed. In the presence of donepezil and galantamine, spatial dispersion of repolarization was amplified. Cardiac repolarization (QT interval and action potential duration) was prolonged with donepezil but not with galantamine. Remarkably, both drugs induced triggered activity (early afterdepolarizations and torsade de pointes tachycardia). Despite a pronounced prolongation of repolarization with rivastigmine, no increase in spatial dispersion of repolarization and thus no triggered activity was observed. In the present study, donepezil and galantamine provoked triggered activity, whereas rivastigmine did not have proarrhythmic effects. Spatial dispersion of repolarization but not duration of cardiac repolarization was associated with increased risk of drug-induced proarrhythmia with acetylcholine-esterase inhibitors. Consequently, QT interval duration might be insufficient to estimate the risk of proarrhythmia with acetylcholine-esterase inhibitors. Our findings emphasize the need for further electrocardiographic risk predictors.

The present study evaluated whole-body radiographs of female rabbits regarding uterine disorders.Based on radiographs of 143 rabbits, visibility, size, shape and density of the uterus, nutritional status of the animal and possible metastasis in other organs were examined. A suspected diagnosis was deduced. The radiological findings were compared with the results of the histopathological examination.Especially the nutritional status was important regarding the visibility of the genital tract. In 99 of the 130 visible uteri (76.2 %), a pathological alteration was detected. Thereof, endometrial hyperplasia was most frequently seen (63.6 %), followed by neoplasia (altogether 42.4 %, 39.4 % of these with adenocarcinoma), endometritis (35.4 %) and other diseases (18.2 %). Forty-six rabbits showed only one disease, 42 rabbits had two, 10 rabbits three and one rabbit four different diseases. Among 13 of the 143 uteri that were not visible in the radiograph four were altered pathologically. In 31 of the 130 rabbits with a visible uterine region (21.7 %) the uterus was unaltered. Visualising the uterus proved impossible in two of four skinny rabbits (2.8 %), whereas in all 39 obese rabbits the uterus was visible. Only in one of the four skinny rabbits was the uterus without pathological findings and six of the 39 obese rabbits showed no pathological alteration, visibility notwithstanding. Calcification indicated a tumourous occurrence in 23 of 53 cases. Except for one rabbit, the mineralised neoplasia was an adenocarcinoma (n = 22). Five animals with calcification in the uterine region showed no abnormalities. Of these, the calcification of four animals was no longer existent in the radiograph after ovariohysterectomy. Neoplastic changes in the uterus did not always show calcification. In 20 of the 44 patients with uterine neoplasia no calcification was seen. Changes in uterine size occurred in 118 of the 143 rabbits (82.5 %) and alteration of the uterine shape in 109 of the 143 rabbits (67.1 %).Thus, the above presented parameters - especially size, shape and mineralisation - are very important regarding uterine diseases.Überprüfung von Übersichtsröntgenaufnahmen weiblicher Kaninchen hinsichtlich Uteruserkrankungen.Anhand der Röntgenbilder von 143 Kaninchen wurden Darstellbarkeit, Größe, Form und Dichte des Uterus, Ernährungszustand des Tieres sowie mögliche Metastasen in anderen Organen beurteilt. Daraus wurde eine Verdachtsdiagnose abgeleitet. Die röntgenologischen Befunde wurden anhand der Ergebnisse der histopathologischen Untersuchung überprüft.Bei 99 von 130 sichtbaren Uteri (76,2 %) war eine pathologische Veränderung feststellbar. Darunter lag die endometriale Hyperplasie am häufigsten vor (63,6 %), gefolgt von Neoplasien (gesamt 42,4 %, 39,4 % davon Adenokarzinome), Endometritis (35,4 %) und anderen Erkrankungen (18,2 %). 46 Kaninchen zeigten lediglich eine Erkrankung, 42 Kaninchen hatten zwei, 10 Tiere drei und ein Kaninchen vier Veränderungen der Gebärmutter. Von den 13 nicht im Röntgenbild visualisierbaren Uteri der insgesamt 143 Kaninchen waren vier pathologisch verändert. Bei 31 der 130 Kaninchen (23,8 %) mit röntgenologisch erkennbarem Uterusbereich wurde das Organ histopathologisch als unverändert befundet. Bei zwei der vier mageren Tiere (2,8 %) gelang eine Visualisierung des Uterus nicht, während der Bereich des Uterus bei allen 39 adipösen Tieren erkennbar war. Nur bei einem der vier mageren Tiere ergab die histopathologische Untersuchung einen unauffälligen Uterus und bei sechs adipösen Tieren wies das Organ trotz Erkennbarkeit keine pathologische Veränderung auf. Verkalkungen deuteten in 23 von 53 Fällen auf ein tumoröses Geschehen hin. Mit Ausnahme eines Falls handelte es sich dabei um ein Adenokarzinom (n = 22). Fünf Tiere mit verstärkter Mineralisation in der Uterusregion waren in der pathologischen Untersuchung unauffällig. Bei vier dieser Kaninchen war die Verkalkung in postoperativ angefertigten Röntgenaufnahmen nicht mehr sichtbar. Bei 20 der 44 Patienten mit Uterusneoplasie zeigten sich im Röntgenbild keine Kalzifizierungsherde im Organ. Größenveränderungen des Uterus traten bei 118 der 143 Kaninchen auf (82,5 %), Formabweichungen bei 109 der 143 Tiere (67,1 %).Anhand der Beurteilung der oben dargestellten Parameter des Uterus – insbesondere Größe, Form und Verkalkung – ist ein guter Hinweis bezüglich einer Uteruserkrankung zu gewinnen. Eine vollständige Darstellbarkeit des Uterus ist die Voraussetzung für eine komplette Beurteilung.

In this study, we present a detailed phenotype description and genetic elucidation of the first case of X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia in the shorthaired standard Dachshund. This condition is characterized by partial congenital hypotrichosis, missing and malformed teeth and a lack of eccrine sweat glands. Clinical signs including dental radiographs and histopathological findings were consistent with ectodermal dysplasia. Pedigree analysis supported an X-recessive mode of inheritance. Whole-genome sequencing of one affected puppy and his dam identified a 1-basepair deletion within the ectodysplasin-A (EDA) gene (CM000039.3:g.54509504delT, c.458delT). Sanger sequencing of further family members confirmed the EDA:c.458delT-variant. Validation in all available family members, 37 unrelated shorthaired standard Dachshunds, 128 further Dachshunds from all other coat and size varieties and samples from 34 dog breeds revealed the EDA:c.458delT-variant to be private for this family. Two heterozygous females showed very mild congenital hypotrichosis but normal dentition. Since the dam is demonstrably the only heterozygous animal in the ancestry of the affected animals, we assume that the EDA:c.458delT-variant arose in the germline of the granddam or in an early embryonic stage of the dam. In conclusion, we detected a very recent de-novo EDA mutation causing X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia in the shorthaired standard Dachshund.

Objective: To describe the bacterial bio-burden of open-treated wounds and make comparisons with bite wounds. Design: Retrospective multicentre study. Sample: Microbial culture between 2011 and 2013 from open-treated wounds in dogs and cats (initiation of therapy n=88, follow-up n=52) were compared to those from bite wounds (n=184). Procedures: Bacteria were identified and tested for antibiotic susceptibility by two accredited laboratories. Results: In total, 77/88 (88%) of open-treated wounds yielded positive bacterial cultures at the beginning of treatment, decreasing to 27/52 (52%) during treatment. Upon initial evaluation, 42/88 (48 %) of open-treated wounds were considered infected with multi-drug-resistant bacteria, with a drop to 22/52 (41%) during therapy. Bite wounds yielded fewer positive cultures 88/184 (48%) with only 11/182 (6%) being affected by multi-drug-resistant bacteria. Bacteria found most commonly in open-treated wounds were Enterococcus subspecies, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Conclusion: The bacterial populations of open-treated wounds differed markedly from the bite wounds. The high incidence of multi-drug-resistant strains in open wounds highlights the need for alternatives to antibiotics.

In several case reports a prolongation of the QT-interval and even proarrhythmic effects of fluconazole and voriconazole were reported. The aim of the present study was to investigate if application of fluconazole or voriconazole has the potential to provoke polymorphic ventricular tachycardia in a sensitive model of proarrhythmia. In female rabbits, fluconazole (10, 30 and 50 µM, n=6) and voriconazole (10, 30 and 50 µM, n=6) were infused after obtaining baseline data. Eight endocardial and epicardial monophasic action potentials and a simultaneously recorded 12-lead ECG showed a significant QT prolongation after application of fluconazole as compared with baseline (10 µM:+12 ms, 30 µM:+22 ms, 50 µM:+37 ms; P

Objectives The objective of this study was to evaluate negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) for the treatment of complicated wounds in cats. Methods Twenty cats undergoing open-wound treatment in two clinics were classed according to treatment method: NPWT (group A, n = 10) and polyurethane foam dressing (group B, n = 10). Pairs of patients from each group were matched based on wound conformation, localisation and underlying cause. Cats from both groups were compared in terms of duration of previous treatment, time to closure and complications. Results Signalment, duration of previous treatment, antibiotic and antiseptic treatment, and bacterial status were comparable between groups. Total time to wound closure was significantly shorter ( P = 0.046, strong effect size; Cohen d = 0.8) in group A (25.8 days, range 11.0–57.0 days) compared with group B (39.5 days, range 28.0–75.0 days). NPWT-treated wounds suffered fewer complications and became septic less frequently during treatment compared with wounds treated with a foam dressing. The progression of fat tissue necrosis was particularly well controlled under NPWT, resulting in fewer deaths due to this condition in this group. However, although a strong effect of NPWT on the progression of infection, fever and sepsis was detected (Cramer-V 0.5), this difference was not significant. Conclusions and relevance This study demonstrated that time to healing was considerably shorter, and complication rate lower, in NPWT-treated animals compared with foam dressing-treated cats. In particular, the effective management of infection by NPWT emphasises the value of NPWT in the treatment of cats suffering from infected wounds.

Kaninchen sind als Fluchttiere bekannt dafur, dass sie vor gefahrlichen oder unbekannten Situationen ubersturzt fluchten. Aufgrund der Zusammensetzung ihrer Knochen sind diese sehr sprode und konnen leicht brechen. Neben der Osteosynthese ist als weitere chirurgische Therapie die Amputation eine Behandlungsoption. Die Erfahrungen zeigen, dass Kaninchen mit 3 Gliedmasen verhaltnismasig gut zurechtkommen. Wenn bestimmte Ursachen bestehen, kann ein lebensbedrohlicher Zustand durch eine Amputation abgewehrt werden. Im vorliegenden Artikel werden die Grunde fur und gegen, sowie die Vorgehensweise einer Amputation der Hintergliedmase dargestellt.