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Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) can induce fatal hemorrhagic disease (HD) in African elephants ( Loxodonta africana ). Once clinical signs develop, progression is rapid, even with aggressive treatment. There is a critical need to develop point-of-care diagnostic tests to aid in identification of EEHV-HD prior to the onset of overt clinical signs. Study objectives were to investigate a novel, point-of-care viscoelastic coagulation monitor (VCM Vet), compare the results to thromboelastography (TEG), and report traditional hemostatic analytes in adult African elephants. Whole blood was collected from seven clinically healthy elephants (four females and three males, 18-47 yr) and analyzed in duplicate via VCM Vet and kaolin-activated TEG 1-3 and 30 min following collection, respectively. Separated plasma was frozen for ancillary coagulation testing. Both analyses generated quantifiable clotting reactions with variables (median [range]) describing clot formation rate (VCM Vet, clot time = 682 s [530-987 s], clot formation time = 244 s [186-744 s], Alpha = 40° [14-47°]; TEG, reaction time = 6.2 min [3.7-11.8 min], kinetic time = 1.3 min [0.9-2.6 min], Alpha = 70° [57-77°]), clot strength (VCM Vet, maximum clot formation = 34 units [20-45 units]; TEG, maximum amplitude = 75 mm [69-80 mm], shear elastic modulus strength = 14.7 Kdynes/s [11.3-19.5 Kdynes/s]), and clot lysis (VCM Vet, lysis index at 30 min = 100% [100-99%], lysis index at 45 min = 98% [95-100%]; TEG, lysis index at 30 min = 0% [0-0.4%], lysis index at 60 min = 1.4% [0-2.6%]) recorded. Additional testing (median [range]) included D-dimer concentration (33 ng/ml [28-94 ng/ml]), prothrombin time (12.4 s [12.2-13.2 s]), activated partial thromboplastin time (17.2 s [14.2-18.8 s]), and fibrinogen concentration (297 [282-383] mg/dL). Tracings generated by VCM Vet and TEG were clinically similar, and there was visual agreement and minimal difference between quantitative variables for duplicate tests. VCM Vet is a promising, user-friendly tool for use in identification and management of coagulopathies in African elephants.

Four green iguanas ( Iguana iguana ) and one blue iguana ( Cyclura lewisi ) from five facilities were diagnosed with sodium urate cholelithiasis. One case was diagnosed antemortem via ultrasonography, and the iguana underwent a choledochotomy for treatment. The other four cases were identified at necropsy. Pathologic hepatic and biliary changes were present in four of the five cases at necropsy. Histologically, four iguanas had hepatic fibrosis, three had bile duct hyperplasia, and one had cholangiohepatitis and pancreaticocholedochitis. Two iguanas had pathologic renal changes. This is the first report of sodium urate cholelithiasis in reptiles. This case series highlights the potential significant clinical disease caused by sodium urate cholelithiasis and the importance of biliary system evaluation. Further investigation is recommended to explore the pathogenesis of reptilian sodium urate cholelith formation.

One of the major drawbacks associated with autologous fat grafting is unpredictable graft retention. Various efforts to improve the survivability of these cells have been explored, but these methods are time‐consuming, complex, and demand significant technical skill. In our study, we examine the use of cryopreserved amniotic membrane as a source of exogenous growth factors to improve adipocyte survivability under normal and hypoxic conditions. Human primary preadipocytes were cultured in a gelatin‐ferulic acid (Gtn‐FA) hydrogel with variable oxygen concentration and treated with amniotic membrane‐derived condition medium (CM) for 7 days. This hydrogel provides a hypoxic environment and also creates a 3D cell culture to better mimic recipient site conditions. The O2 concentration in the hydrogel was measured by electron paramagnetic resonance oxygen imaging (EPROI). The conjugation of FA was confirmed by FTIR and NMR spectroscopy. The cell viability and adipocyte differentiation were analyzed by alamarBlue™ assay, Oil Red O staining, and RT‐qPCR. The expression of genes: Pref‐1, C/EBP β, C/EBP α, PPAR‐ƴ, SLC2A4, and VEGF‐A were quantified. The cell viability results show that the 50% CM showed significantly higher cell pre‐adipocyte cell viability. In addition, compared to normal conditions, hypoxia/CM provided higher PPAR‐ƴ (p <.05), SLC2A4, and VEGF‐A (p <.05) (early and terminal differentiating markers) mRNA expression. This finding demonstrates the efficacy of amniotic CM supplementation as a novel way to promote adipocyte survival and retention via the expression of key gene markers for differentiation and angiogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 7‐year‐old spayed female ferret was presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine for a slow‐growing mass involving the base of the tail. Radiographs revealed a large, irregularly marginated mineralized mass centered on the fifth to seventh caudal vertebrae with osteolysis of the affected caudal vertebrae. A partial caudectomy was performed, and histopathology was consistent with a chordoma. This is the first case report describing the radiographic appearance of a chordoma in the proximal tail and only the second report to describe radiographic findings in a ferret. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitigating the foreign body response (FBR) to implantable medical devices (IMDs) is critical for successful long‐term clinical deployment. The FBR is an inevitable immunological reaction to IMDs, resulting in inflammation and subsequent fibrotic encapsulation. Excessive fibrosis may impair IMDs function, eventually necessitating retrieval or replacement for continued therapy. Therefore, understanding the implant design parameters and their degree of influence on FBR is pivotal to effective and long lasting IMDs. This review gives an overview of FBR as well as anti‐FBR strategies. Furthermore, we highlight recent advances in biomimetic approaches to resist FBR, focusing on their characteristics and potential biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperthyroidism and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are common diseases of geriatric cats, and often occur concurrently. Thus, a thorough understanding of the influence of thyroid function on renal function is of significant value for all feline practitioners. Among other effects, hyperthyroidism causes protein catabolism and increases renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). These effects render traditional renal markers insensitive for the detection of CKD in cats with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism. Furthermore, the development of iatrogenic hypothyroidism with over treatment of hyperthyroidism can be detrimental to renal function and may negatively affect long‐term survival. This review discusses important diagnostic considerations of feline hyperthyroidism, as well as key treatment modalities, with an emphasis on the use of radioiodine and the importance of post treatment monitoring of thyroid and renal parameters. In Australia, a common curative treatment for cats with benign hyperthyroidism (i.e. thyroid hyperplasia or adenoma) is a fixed dose of orally administered radioiodine, regardless of the serum total thyroxine concentration at the time of diagnosis. This review discusses the long term outcomes of this standard of care in comparison with current, relevant research literature from around the world. Finally, this review explores the use of symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) in assessing renal function before and after treatment in hyperthyroid cats. SDMA correlates well with GFR and creatinine in non‐hyperthyroid cats, but our understanding of its performance in hyperthyroid cats remains in its infancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss among the adult population. Indeed, conventional treatment modalities have specific challenges such as scar tissue infiltration, the formation of long epithelium junctions, and aesthetic limitations. Therefore, the development of alternative strategies is highly demanded. In this regard, periodontal tissue engineering has shed new light on the next generation of treatment methods. The essence of this technology is the use of appropriate biomaterials, bioactive agents, and fabrication technologies to mimic the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) of periodontal tissue. Among different candidates, the use of electrospun polysaccharides has gained significant attention. These structures possess a solid resemblance to native periodontal tissue's ECM in physicochemical, biological, and structural properties. The current review discusses the recent progress, challenges, and future perspectives of electrospun polysaccharides in periodontal tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Type-1 diabetes (T1D) occurs following autoimmune-induced pancreatic beta cells death. Among several treatment modalities, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) transplantation is promising for autoimmune disorders due to immunomodulation, regeneration, and migration to damaged tissue upon systemic injection. This study assessed the safety and efficacy of intravenous injection of autologous bone marrow-derived MSCs in newly diagnosed T1D patients. Methods: After receiving informed consent, 21 patients who met the study criteria were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either MSCs or placebo. Each patient in the experimental group received two doses of MSCs and was followed for at least one-year post-transplantation. Results: The results have shown that this transplantation is safe and significantly reduces the number of hypoglycemic episodes. MSCs transplantation improved glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), shifted serum cytokine patterns from pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory, increased the number of regulatory T-cells in the peripheral blood, and improved quality of life. Early transplantation of MSCs significantly improved HbA1c and C-peptide levels and shifted pro-inflammatory cytokines to anti-inflammatory cytokines. Also, exercise combined with MSCs transplantation improved glycemic and immunologic indices. Conclusions: Taken together, autologous MSC transplantation is safe and effective, and its early transplantation is a promising treatment in newly diagnosed T1D children suffering from hypoglycemic episodes. Trial registration: This clinical trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) with the identifier IRCT ID: IRCT2016070428786N1 registered on August 20, 2016 (Retrospectively registered) (https://en.irct.ir/trial/23256) and at the U.S. National Institutes of Health (ClinicalTrials.gov) with the related identifier NCT04078308 registered on September 6, 2019 (Retrospectively registered). (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04078308). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem cell transplantation is expected to be an effective treatment for intractable skin ulcers by promoting angiogenesis; however, it is challenging to quickly realize a sufficient bloodstream for the ulcers. For this treatment, sheet‐like materials with monolayer cells such as cell sheets have been investigated. However, they have a limitation of cell number that can be transplanted at one time due to the two‐dimensional, monolayer cell structure, and sufficient secretion of growth factors cannot be expected. In this regard, cellular aggregates, such as spheroids, can reproduce three‐dimensional cell‐cell interactions that cause biological functions of living tissues more representative than monolayer cells, which is important to achieving efficient secretion of growth factors. In this study, we focused on free‐standing porous polymer ultrathin films ("porous nanosheets") comprising poly(d,l‐lactic acid) (PDLLA) and succeeded in developing a spheroid‐covered nanosheet, on which more than 1000 spheroids from adipose‐tissue derived stem cells (ASCs) were loaded. The porous structure with an average pore diameter of 4 μm allowed for facile filtration and carrying spheroids on the nanosheet, as well as sufficient oxygen and nutrients inflow to the cells. The spheroid‐covered nanosheet achieved homogeneous transference of spheroids to a whole skin defect in diabetic model mice. Given the continuous release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) from the spheroids, the transplanted spheroids promoted healing with more accelerated angiogenesis than a nanosheet with a monolayer of cells. The spheroid‐covered nanosheet may be a new regenerative material for promoting intractable skin ulcer healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parotid gland tumours are rare in dogs. In this report, a 7‐year‐old, female, spayed bearded collie was presented for a subacute onset of neurological signs. A meningoencephalitis of unknown origin affecting the cerebellum diagnosed 10 months before had successfully been treated with prednisolone and mycophenolate mofetil. Head CT and MRI showed a right‐sided retropharyngeal mass invading the caudal fossa and compressing the cerebellum and brainstem, adjacent to a second lesion involving the right parotid gland. Postmortem examination revealed a malignant parotid gland carcinoma with intracranial extension, occipital bone infiltration and metastasis to the lungs and the right medial retropharyngeal lymph node. The cerebellum was unremarkable. This is the first report describing detailed imaging features of a malignant parotid gland carcinoma developed in a dog previously diagnosed with a meningoencephalitis of unknown origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to literature, certain microorganism productions mediate biological effects. However, their beneficial characteristics remain unclear. Nowadays, scientists concentrate on obtaining natural materials from live creatures as new sources to produce innovative smart biomaterials for increasing tissue reconstruction in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The present review aims to introduce microorganism-derived biological macromolecules, such as pullulan, alginate, dextran, curdlan, and hyaluronic acid, and their available sources for tissue engineering. Growing evidence indicates that these materials can be used as biological material in scaffolds to enhance regeneration in damaged tissues and contribute to cosmetic and dermatological applications. These natural-based materials are attractive in pharmaceutical, regenerative medicine, and biomedical applications. This study provides a detailed overview of natural-based biomaterials, their chemical and physical properties, and new directions for future research and therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-year-old male veiled chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus) was referred for a gular oedema and bilateral blepharoedema. The echocardiography revealed a ventricular hypertrophy, pericardial effusion, and valvular regurgitation of the right atrioventricular valve. Treatment with hydrochlorothiazide, enalapril, and carvedilol was commenced. Within 3 weeks of treatment, the valvular regurgitation was noticeably decreased. In the 4th week of treatment, the echocardiography revealed a reduction in the myocardium hypertrophy. After an additional month of home treatment, the patient was presented with anorexia and decreased activity. Despite the supportive care, the patient died. The histopathology revealed mild to moderate fibrosis of the epicardium. Moderate to severe fibrosis, degeneration of the myofibrils, fatty atrophy, interstitial oedema and mild calcification was seen in the atria. The tunica intima, media and adventitia of the major cardiac vessels were moderately fibrotic, swollen and interfused by myxoedema. The kidney histopathology revealed moderate sclerosis and atrophy of the glomeruli, vacuolation of the tubular epithelium, fibrosis, and infiltration of the leucocytes in the interstitium. The therapeutic protocol with hydrochlorothiazide, ACE inhibitor enalapril and β-blocker carvedilol reduced the myocardium hypertrophy and the valvular regurgitation; however, the prolonged use of diuretics jeopardized the renal function in our patient. Frequent blood analyses are necessary using diuretics in reptile patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To expand the number of conditions and interventions explored for their associations with thrombosis in the veterinary literature and to provide the basis for prescribing recommendations. Design: A population exposure comparison outcome format was used to represent patient, exposure, comparison, and outcome. Population Exposure Comparison Outcome questions were distributed to worksheet authors who performed comprehensive searches, summarized the evidence, and created guideline recommendations that were reviewed by domain chairs. The revised guidelines then underwent the Delphi survey process to reach consensus on the final guidelines. Diseases evaluated in this iteration included heartworm disease (dogs and cats), immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (cats), protein‐losing nephropathy (cats), protein‐losing enteropathy (dogs and cats), sepsis (cats), hyperadrenocorticism (cats), liver disease (dogs), congenital portosystemic shunts (dogs and cats) and the following interventions: IV catheters (dogs and cats), arterial catheters (dogs and cats), vascular access ports (dogs and cats), extracorporeal circuits (dogs and cats) and transvenous pacemakers (dogs and cats). Results: Of the diseases evaluated in this iteration, a high risk for thrombosis was defined as heartworm disease or protein‐losing enteropathy. Low risk for thrombosis was defined as dogs with liver disease, cats with immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia, protein‐losing nephropathy, sepsis, or hyperadrenocorticism. Conclusions: Associations with thrombosis are outlined for various conditions and interventions and provide the basis for management recommendations. Numerous knowledge gaps were identified that represent opportunities for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Use of laparotomy sponges to protect abdominal viscera during gastrointestinal surgery is described in nonspecific terms by various sources, but no definitive guidelines have been established in veterinary literature. The objective of this study was to compare the in vitro efficacy of various layer-densities of laparotomy sponges at reducing bacterial contamination from multiple contaminant volumes during multiple exposure times. A standardized Escherichia coli inoculum water solution was applied over sterile laparotomy sponges overlying blood agar plates. Four laparotomy sponge layer-densities, 4 volumes of E. coli inoculum water solution, and 4 exposure times were evaluated. All blood agar plates were incubated for 48 hours followed by surface area measurements of colonization of each blood agar plate at 24 and 48 hours. The procedure was repeated thrice. Bacterial colonization occurred on 100% (192/192) of inoculated blood agar plates. There was a statistically significant decrease in colonized area with increasing layer-density of laparotomy sponges (P<0.0001). Comparison between the layer-density of sponges were statistically significant in resulting infected area (P<0.01), except comparison between 6- and 8-layers (P = 0.9490). Colonized area was not significantly altered by time of exposure. Results suggested that increasing the layer-density of laparotomy sponges has significant effect on reducing strikethrough bacterial colonization in an in vitro model. The results of this study can be used when performing gastrointestinal surgery to help guide laparotomy sponge use to reduce peritoneal bacterial contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease that attacks pancreatic β-cells, leading to the destruction of insulitis-related islet β-cells. Islet β-cell transplantation has been proven as a curative measure in T1DM. However, a logarithmic increase in the global population with diabetes, limited donor supply, and the need for lifelong immunosuppression restrict the widespread use of β-cell transplantation. Numerous therapeutic approaches have been taken to search for substitutes of β-cells, among which stem cell transplantation is one of the most promising alternatives. Stem cells have demonstrated the potential efficacy to treat T1DM by reconstitution of immunotolerance and preservation of islet β-cell function in recent research. cGMP-grade stem cell products have been used in human clinical trials, showing that stem cell transplantation has beneficial effects on T1DM, with no obvious adverse reactions. To better achieve remission of T1DM by stem cell transplantation, in this work, we explain the progression of stem cell transplantation such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), and bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells (BM-HSCs) to restore the immunotolerance and preserve the islet β-cell function of T1DM in recent years. This review article provides evidence of the clinical applications of stem cell therapy in the treatment of T1DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 6‐year‐old, 43 kg, male Shiloh shepherd dog was anaesthetised for computed tomography to investigate the source of respiratory distress, lethargy and decreased appetite. Arterial hypotension during anaesthesia was treated with an infusion of phenylephrine and a bolus of ephedrine, 0.05 mg/kg intravenously (IV). Ephedrine resulted in increased blood pressure and reflexive bradycardia; atrial fibrillation developed immediately after. Approximately 10 minutes later, a bolus of lidocaine 2 mg/kg IV was administered, and normal sinus rhythm was restored within 1 minute. Lone atrial fibrillation may be triggered by agents or disease processes that increase vagal activity. While lidocaine has historically been used only to treat unstable ventricular dysrhythmias, it is effective for terminating this particular type of atrial fibrillation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 15‐year‐old domestic cat presented with restrictive dyspnoea and pyrexia. Thoracic radiographs and computed tomography (CT) revealed a caudal mediastinal paraesophageal empyema associated with pyothorax, pleuritis and pericardial effusion. No foreign body was visible. The bacteriology was positive for Fusobacterium nucleatum. Medical treatment was initiated and consisted of bilateral drainage/lavage of the pleural cavity and intravenous amoxicillin/clavulanic acid followed by oral administration. A second CT scan performed on Day 7 showed regression of the lesion and confirmed the effectiveness of the medical treatment. Thoracic drains were removed on Day 8, and antibiotic treatment stopped 3 weeks postdiagnosis. A CT scan performed at 6 weeks postdiagnosis revealed complete regression of the lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Islet transplantation is a treatment for selected adults with type 1 diabetes and severe hypoglycemia. Islets from two or more donor pancreases, a scarce resource, are usually required to impact glycemic control, but the treatment falls short of a cure. Islets are avascular when transplanted into the hypoxic liver environment and subjected to inflammatory insults, immune attack, and toxicity from systemic immunosuppression. The Collaborative Islet Transplant Registry, with outcome data on over 1,000 islet transplant recipients, has demonstrated that larger islet numbers transplanted and older age of recipients are associated with better outcomes. Induction with T-cell depleting agents and the TNF-α inhibitor etanercept and maintenance systemic immunosuppression with mTOR inhibitors in combination with calcineurin inhibitors also appear advantageous, but concerns remain over immunosuppressive toxicity. We discuss strategies and therapeutics that address specific challenges of islet transplantation, many of which are at the preclinical stage of development. On the horizon are adjuvant cell therapies with mesenchymal stromal cells and regulatory T cells that have been used in preclinical models and in humans in other contexts; such a strategy may enable reductions in immunosuppression in the early peri-transplant period when the islets are vulnerable to apoptosis. Human embryonic stem cell-derived islets are in early-phase clinical trials and hold the promise of an inexhaustible supply of insulinproducing cells; effective encapsulation of such cells or, silencing of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex would eliminate the need for immunosuppression, enabling this therapy to be used in all those with type 1 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mammals, high concentrations of gonadotropins are necessary early in life to reach a full‐sized pool of ovarian follicles at the age of puberty. This case report describes the reproductive status of a 28‐month‐old, 9.1 kg, crossbred bitch (Bitch 1) which had been treated neonatally with 18.8 deslorelin acetate subcutaneously for contraceptive purposes. The female had just passed pubertal oestrus when hormones were measured and then spayed. The ovaries were histologically assessed. Two crossbred bitches were used for comparisons. Bitch 1's anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) and progesterone serum concentrations were 0.35 and 16.7 ng/ml, respectively. The total number of ovarian follicles and proportions were normal and the number of primary and antral follicles was increased. These findings might suggest an enhanced recruitment of the follicle pool to the growing population which could be related to the relatively low AMH concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An 8‐year and 2‐month‐old 37.2 kg crossbreed dog was presented with a persistent cough. Thoracic computed tomography was performed and identified a large lobar mass sitting within the left main stem bronchus. The mass was deemed operable, but considering the unique technical challenges associated with the surgery (need for specific ventilation strategies and risk of major haemorrhage) a guarded prognosis was given. A total left‐sided pneumonectomy via a lateral thoracotomy was performed. One‐lung ventilation was required in order to allow surgical access. During the surgery, the dog suddenly developed atrial fibrillation, which converted back to a normal sinus rhythm (SR) during the recovery period. The dog recovered uneventfully following the return to SR and was discharged 72 hours after the surgery. Histopathological results of the lung mass concluded to a primary pulmonary chondrosarcoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A seven‐year‐old female Chinchilla cat and a 13‐year‐old male Cocker Spaniel were presented to Dick White Referrals for respiratory difficulties and cough, respectively. Based on radiographic and CT findings, including the midline location of the lesion and its mass effect on mediastinal structures, a caudodorsal mediastinal mass was considered more likely than a pulmonary origin in both cases. However, further investigations in the form of thoracic ultrasound and ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspirates in the first case and histopathology in the second, revealed the presence of an accessory lobe pulmonary carcinoma in both cases. Retrospective review of these cases allowed identification of CT features that can be used to distinguish mediastinal and accessory lung lobe masses in future cases, including absence of part or all of the accessory lobe and its lobar bronchus, presence of gas in the lesion and the shape of the lesion mimicking a lung lobe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease characterized by autoreactive T cell-mediated destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic beta-cells. Loss of beta-cells leads to insulin insufficiency and hyperglycemia, with patients eventually requiring lifelong insulin therapy to maintain normal glycemic control. Since T1D has been historically defined as a disease of immune system dysregulation, there has been little focus on the state and response of beta-cells and how they may also contribute to their own demise. Major hurdles to identifying a cure for T1D include a limited understanding of disease etiology and how functional and transcriptional beta-cell heterogeneity may be involved in disease progression. Recent studies indicate that the beta-cell response is not simply a passive aspect of T1D pathogenesis, but rather an interplay between the beta-cell and the immune system actively contributing to disease. Here, we comprehensively review the current literature describing beta-cell vulnerability, heterogeneity, and contributions to pathophysiology of T1D, how these responses are influenced by autoimmunity, and describe pathways that can potentially be exploited to delay T1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes is a complex disease that affects over 400 million people worldwide. The life-long insulin injections and continuous blood glucose monitoring required in type 1 diabetes (T1D) represent a tremendous clinical and economic burdens that urges the need for a medical solution. Pancreatic islet transplantation holds great promise in the treatment of T1D; however, the difficulty in regulating post-transplantation immune reactions to avoid both allogenic and autoimmune graft rejection represent a bottleneck in the field of islet transplantation. Cell replacement strategies have been performed in hepatic, intramuscular, omentum, and subcutaneous sites, and have been performed in both animal models and human patients. However more optimal transplantation sites and methods of improving islet graft survival are needed to successfully translate these studies to a clinical relevant therapy. In this review, we summarize the current progress in the field as well as methods and sites of islet transplantation, including stem cell-derived functional human islets. We also discuss the contribution of immune cells, vessel formation, extracellular matrix, and nutritional supply on islet graft survival. Developing new transplantation sites with emerging technologies to improve islet graft survival and simplify immune regulation will greatly benefit the future success of islet cell therapy in the treatment of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the clinical efficacy of three different closure techniques on postoperative pain and surgical complications in cats. It was a randomized, clinical trial conducted at different veterinary clinics in Lahore, Pakistan. Forty-eight (n = 48) cats underwent midline incision for ovariohysterectomy and were assigned to one of three Groups representing different closure methods. In Group A, continuous subcutaneous apposition was carried out with buried knots and intermittent tacking to the rectus fascia (Group A, n=16) in a quilting fashion to obliterate dead space using Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl™) USP 3-0 suture, superimposed by horizontal mattress pattern employing Polypropylene (Prolene™) USP 2-0. Individuals of Group B were subjected to continuous subcutaneous apposition with buried knots without incorporating any fascia (Group B, n=16) by means of Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl™) USP 3-0 suture overlaid with horizontal mattress sutures pattern via Polypropylene (Prolene™) USP 2-0. While in Group C, no subcutaneous closure was performed and edges of skin were sutured in a horizontal mattress pattern (Group C, n=16). Incidence of postoperative complications such as seroma, erythema, dehiscence and exudative discharge were rare in Group A due to subcutaneous attachment with muscle sheet. Moreover, mechanical threshold to peri-incisional stimulation was significantly improved in Group A as well. However, pain and discomfort scores according to feline composite pain scale were comparable across all cases at 2nd, 8th and 14th day after surgery. In conclusion, suturing subcutaneous tissues in a quilting fashion reduced seroma formation and mechanical pain threshold in cats undergoing abdominal closure during ovariohysterectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin injection is currently the main therapy for type 1 diabetes (T1D) or late stage of severe type 2 diabetes (T2D). Human pancreatic islet transplantation confers a significant improvement in glycemic control and prevents life-threatening severe hypoglycemia in T1D patients. However, the shortage of cadaveric human islets limits their therapeutic potential. In addition, chronic immunosuppression, which is required to avoid rejection of transplanted islets, is associated with severe complications, such as an increased risk of malignancies and infections. Thus, there is a significant need for novel approaches to the large-scale generation of functional human islets protected from autoimmune rejection in order to ensure durable graft acceptance without immunosuppression. An important step in addressing this need is to strengthen our understanding of transplant immune tolerance mechanisms for both graft rejection and autoimmune rejection. Engineering of functional human pancreatic islets that can avoid attacks from host immune cells would provide an alternative safe resource for transplantation therapy. Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) offer a potentially limitless supply of cells because of their self-renewal ability and pluripotency. Therefore, studying immune tolerance induction in hPSC-derived human pancreatic islets will directly contribute toward the goal of generating a functional cure for insulin-dependent diabetes. In this review, we will discuss the current progress in the immune protection of stem cell-derived islet cell therapy for treating diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to report the outcome of the use of an external fixator to treat a pelvic canal stenosis in a 5-month-old female cat. The cat was referred with a history of 3 weeks of intermittent signs of constipation refractory to the medical management, occurring after surgical treatment for a bilateral sacroiliac luxation and sacral fracture. The clinical examination revealed instability of the pelvis and a radiograph showed a pelvic canal stenosis and megacolon. External fixator was the method of choice to be used in this case. The manually applied tension on an external fixator resulted in a widening of the pelvic canal. At 45 days after surgery, there were no signs of constipation, and the radiological examination showed progressive bone healing. At 18 months post-op, the cat had no abnormalities both on the clinical examination and on the radiography. In conclusion, the use of an external fixator led to the widening of the pelvic canal using a minimally invasive procedure. To the authors' knowledge, this case report represents the first surgical description and clinical outcome of the widening of the pelvic canal in cats using an external skeletal fixator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted on goats with the purpose to evaluate the ovarian reserve before females submit to the ova retrieval for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The study was conducted at the college of veterinary medicine -- the University of Baghdad and Middle East Labs - Baghdad (2019-2020). The study included thirty female goats (does) within the age of puberty and sexual maturity. The animals were divided into two groups: group I (< 4 years old), and group II (> 4 years old). A blood sample (6 ml) was collected from each animal through the jugular vein (before slaughter) in tubes containing anticoagulants and then sent to the laboratory for estimation of antimullerian hormone (AMH). The study showed significant increases in the level of AMH (4.02 ± 0.17) of the group I (< 4 years old) comparative with (2.22 ± 0.54) to the group II (> 4 years old) at the (<0.01), and this result relation with the number of oocytes obtained from ovarian samples of animals after slaughtering, it was found that the number and quality of oocytes increased in the group I (29 oocytes from a 15ovarian samples, compared with group II (16 oocytes from 15ovarian samples. This result explains the decrease in the ovarian reservoir of follicles with an increase in the age in the doe as a result of the decrease in the level of AMH in the serum, which is considered an indicator for knowing the ovarian reservoir from the follicles and determining the productive age of the ovaries. According to the results of this study, the decrease in the level of AMH in the serum is an indication of a decrease in the number of follicles on the surface of the ovaries, which negatively affects the fertility and productivity of the goats or may affect the fertilization rate and the number of fertilized embryos. The AMH test is considered one of the important tests that must be taken before oocyte collection to reduce the effort and costs involved in conducting any assisted reproduction technique that requires collecting the oocytes from the donor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Eurasian Journal of Veterinary Sciences is the property of Eurasian Journal of Veterinary Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Pancreatic islet transplantation still represents a promising therapeutic strategy for curative treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus. However, a limited number of organ donors and insufficient vascularization with islet engraftment failure restrict the successful transfer of this approach into clinical practice. To overcome these problems, we herein introduce a novel strategy for the generation of prevascularized islet organoids by the fusion of pancreatic islet cells with functional native microvessels. These insulin‐secreting organoids exhibit a significantly higher angiogenic activity compared to freshly isolated islets, cultured islets, and non‐prevascularized islet organoids. This is caused by paracrine signaling between the β‐cells and the microvessels, mediated by insulin binding to its corresponding receptor on endothelial cells. In vivo, the prevascularized islet organoids are rapidly blood‐perfused after transplantation by the interconnection of their autochthonous microvasculature with surrounding blood vessels. As a consequence, a lower number of islet grafts are required to restore normoglycemia in diabetic mice. Thus, prevascularized islet organoids may be used to improve the success rates of clinical islet transplantation. Synopsis: This study introduces a novel strategy to accelerate the revascularization of transplanted islets by the fusion of microvascular fragments (MVF) with pancreatic islet cells. These prevascularized islet organoids may be used to improve the success rate of clinical islet transplantation. The fusion of islet cells with MVF resulted in compact prevascularized islet organoids.Prevascularized islet organoids exhibited a highly angiogenic activity, mediated by a paracrine signaling between β‐cells and endothelial cells.The transplantation of prevascularized islet organoids restored normoglycemia in diabetic animals immediately after transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to evaluate the beneficial effect of allogenic omental graft on esophageal healing in dogs. Twenty healthy male adult dogs were used they were randomly divided into two equal groups (control group 10, treated group 10). Under aseptic technique 4 cm skin incision was made in the midline of the cervical(ventral) of animal by scalpel, after that the incision was sutured immediately by polyglycolic acid suture materials 0.3 USP used simple continous technique, and the omental graft extracted from same animals by laprotomy piece of greater omentum was then placed over the oesophagotomy incision of the experiment group and secured in place with tacks sutures, In the control group, the esophagotomy suture line was left without graft. Esophageal healing process follow up 1,2 and 3 weeks post operation by histopathological examination, the result display in treated group on the first week post operation development of collagen and lamina properia contain congested blood vessels with epithelial regeneration. 2 weeks post operation show the epithelium of the mucosa of the esophagus was formed by hyperplasia of squamous cells. The surface of these epithelia was covered by keratin with present of bundle of collagen and fibroblasts. 3 weeks post operation showed the epithelium of esophagus was covered by keratin, with the presence of blood capillaries and also, there was lymphocytic infiltration in the lamina properia with RBC. The tunica muscularis was consisting of skeletal muscle fibers, inner longitudinal, and outer circular, proliferation of fibroblast with deposition of collagen, while in control group histopathological examination in the first week show The epithelium of the esophagus was stratified squamous with the presence of keratin on its surface, 2 weeks post operation show The mucosa of the esophagus consisted of stratified squamous epithelium with a keratin layer on its surface. The lamina properia was composed of loose connective tissue with infiltration of many WBC and blood vessels, 3 weeks post operation show the basal layer of epithelium had many folds which are interdigitation with the underlying lamina properia, which appeared loose connective tissue with few numbers of fibroblasts and lymphocytes, the healing of treated group better than control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe 4 Great Danes with colonic torsions and describe the risk of torsion recurrence in this breed, which has not previously been reported. This study also describes pneumocolon as a rapid and noninvasive diagnostic for confirmation of colonic torsion. Series summary: Four Great Danes were presented with nonspecific gastrointestinal (GI) clinical signs. Colonic torsion was diagnosed in each case with either plain radiography identifying pneumocolon or contrast radiography (barium enema). Bloodwork in each case revealed nonspecific changes. Each case had a previous gastropexy, 3 of which were prophylactic and 1 as a surgical emergency for gastric dilatation–volvulus. Three cases had favorable outcomes with emergency surgical intervention and returned to normal activity levels with resolution of clinical signs. Two cases of colonic torsion recurred, 1 of which occurred subsequent to a prior left‐sided colopexy. One case of recurrence had persistent clinical signs following surgical revision and was euthanized. New or unique information provided: This is the first report describing pneumocolon to identify a colonic torsion, providing a rapid and low‐morbidity diagnostic aid and to describe the recurrence of colonic torsion in 2 dogs. Support to a previous hypothesis for an association between colonic torsion and altered GI motility is provided. Prior publications reporting colonic torsion and entrapment in German Shepherd Dogs associated with disruption of the duodenocolic ligament reported no recurrence following correction without colopexy. The recurrence in these 2 dogs suggests colonic torsion in Great Danes may represent a different or more severe form of this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Veterinary Journal / Revue Vétérinaire Canadienne is the property of Canadian Veterinary Medical Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

An eight-month-old, 2.7 kg, male, neutered mixed breed cat was presented at the Sokoine University of Agriculture Teaching Animal Hospital with a history of lameness involving hind limbs, lethargy, anorexia and failure to urinate or defecate. Abdominal palpation revealed a distended urinary bladder and firm faeces within the colon. Manipulation of the hips elicited pain and lower lumbar pain was also elicited on palpation. Radiographic examination revealed, an old fracture of the sacrum, lordosis of the lumbar spine with indented vertebral end plates, left sacroiliac joint subluxation and abnormally ventral angling of the ilial wings. Narrowing of the pelvic canal was also observed. A diagnosis of old fractures of the sacrum, left sacral iliac subluxation and narrowing of the pelvic canal was made based on the history, clinical and radiographic examination. Limitation of activity for three weeks was recommended to facilitate healing process. The owner reported the patient had a gradual recovery from lameness. Computed tomography would have provided further insight on the nature and severity of the fractures that the animal sustained. However, it was not done due to unavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]