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The current study performed a comprehensive assessment of blood supply in the cerebellum of dromedary camels. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to provide detailed information about the origins, routes, and complicated patterns of branching in the rostral and caudal cerebellar arteries of dromedary camels. In total, 55 heads from male dromedary camels aged 2–6 years were analyzed using advanced casting techniques. Based on the specific challenges of this study, arterial structures were accurately evaluated using these strategic techniques. Rostral and caudal cerebellar arteries and branches of the basilar artery gave rise to multiple cortical branches categorized as hemispheric (lateral, middle, and medial) and vermian (paramedian and median) branches, which supply blood to the cerebellum. This novel anatomical knowledge can significantly improve our understanding about the neurovascular system of dromedary camels, thereby holding potential implications for veterinary diagnostics, treatment of neurological disorders, and comparative neuroanatomy research.

Abstract Despite extensive studies published on the canine brain, inconsistencies and disagreements in the nomenclature and representation of various cerebral structures continue to exist. This study aimed to create a comprehensive mapping of the external architecture of the mesocephalic canine brain with a focus on the major gyri and sulci. Standardized dissection techniques were used on 20 ethically sourced brains obtained from 6 to 10-year-old dogs that were free of neurological disorders. Distinct gyri and sulci with unique locations and bordering structures were observed. Thus, it was possible to identify the often-ignored subprorean gyrus. In addition, this study was able to illustrate the unique locations and bordering structures of gyri and sulci. The findings can contribute to a consensus among researchers on the canine brain anatomy and assist in clarifying the inconsistencies in cerebral structure representation. Furthermore, the results of this study may hold significant implications for veterinary medicine and neuroscience and serve as a foundation for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for various neurological diseases in dogs. Our findings offer valuable insights into the unique evolutionary adaptations and specialized behaviors of the canine brain, thereby increasing awareness about the neural structures that enable dogs to demonstrate their unique traits.

Abstract The morphological perspective of the camel brain remains largely unexplored. Therefore, studying the topography of the camel brain is of crucial importance. This study aimed to provide a detailed color-coded topographic representation of the camel brain's gross anatomy and nomenclature, showing its various gyri and sulci and their borders. We compared them to previously known information to develop a detailed description of camel brain exterior architecture. Our research identified distinctive gyri and sulci with discrete positions and surrounding structures, allowing us to define sulci boundaries and establish logical gyri nomenclature. This study uncovered previously overlooked gyri and sulci and improved descriptions of specific sulci. The ectomarginal sulcus, splenial sulcus, splenial gyrus, and ectogenual gyrus are a few examples. These findings highlight several unique anatomical features of the dromedary brain, which can guide future research. By providing a comprehensive examination of the distinctive exterior anatomical features of the camel brain, this study may serve as a point of convergence for all researchers, providing more accurate identification of the gyri and sulci.

IntroductionIn mammals, the cerebral cortex depends on a robust blood supply for optimal function. The rostral and caudal cerebral arteries are critical for supplying the cerebrum. This study presents the first detailed anatomical description of the rostral and caudal cerebral arteries of dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius), including their origins, routes, and complex branching patterns.MethodsA sample of 55 heads from male dromedary camels aged 2–6 years was analyzed using advanced casting techniques with various casting materials to provide precise visualization of these arterial structures.ResultsThe rostral cerebral arteries originate dorsally from the rostral epidural rete mirabile (RERM), while the caudal cerebral arteries arise from the caudal communicating artery, which is another branch of the RERM. Both sets of arteries give rise to multiple cortical branches responsible for supplying the medial aspects of the frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes, as well as the medial and caudal regions of the occipital lobes.ConclusionThis study significantly expands our understanding of the cerebrovascular anatomy of dromedary camels. Our findings have potential implications for veterinary medicine in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders in camels and may offer insights into broader comparative neuroscience research.

The classical pathway of the complement system is activated by the binding of C1q in the C1 complex to the target activator, including immune complexes. Factor H is regarded as the key downregulatory protein of the complement alternative pathway. However, both C1q and factor H bind to target surfaces via charge distribution patterns. For a few targets, C1q and factor H compete for binding to common or overlapping sites. Factor H, therefore, can effectively regulate the classical pathway activation through such targets, in addition to its previously characterized role in the alternative pathway. Both C1q and factor H are known to recognize foreign or altered-self materials, e.g., bacteria, viruses, and apoptotic/necrotic cells. Clots, formed by the coagulation system, are an example of altered self. Factor H is present abundantly in platelets and is a well-known substrate for FXIIIa. Here, we investigated whether clots activate the complement classical pathway and whether this is regulated by factor H. We show here that both C1q and factor H bind to the fibrin formed in microtiter plates and the fibrin clots formed under in vitro physiological conditions. Both C1q and factor H become covalently bound to fibrin clots, and this is mediated via FXIIIa. We also show that fibrin clots activate the classical pathway of complement, as demonstrated by C4 consumption and membrane attack complex detection assays. Thus, factor H downregulates the activation of the classical pathway induced by fibrin clots. These results elucidate the intricate molecular mechanisms through which the complement and coagulation pathways intersect and have regulatory consequences.

Abstract This study provides a detailed, in-depth analysis of the anatomy, topography, and branching patterns of the meningeal arteries in dromedary camels, a subject that has not previously been thoroughly studied in animals, providing insight into the intricate biological adaptations that allow them to survive in harsh environments. By precisely examining 20 heads obtained from freshly slaughtered dromedaries, we revealed the origins and topologies of the rostral, middle, and caudal meningeal arteries using advanced casting techniques for precise rendering. Our findings indicate that the rostral meningeal artery derives from the external ethmoidal artery and primarily supplies the rostrodorsal region of the frontal lobe. The middle meningeal artery provides blood to approximately two-thirds of the brain meninges. The caudal meningeal artery is derived from the occipital artery and supplies the meninges covering the cerebellum, caudal part of the falx cerebri, and tentorium cerebelli. Significantly, our study revealed the presence of accessory branches originating from the rostral epidural rete mirabile, a finding not previously described in the existing literature. These branches supply the meninges of the frontal and lateral regions of the frontal lobes. This novel study advances our understanding of the meningeal arteries in dromedaries and has significant implications for advancements in veterinary neuroscience.

Abstract Irrespective of the exceptional adaptation of dromedaries to harsh environmental conditions, they remain highly susceptible to joint lameness resulting from a range of diverse factors and conditions. The joints most often affected by traumatic osteoarthritis in dromedaries are the metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints. A comprehensive understanding of joint anatomy and topography of the dromedary is required to perform arthrocentesis correctly on affected joints. Forty-two distal limbs were taken from 28 camels and studied by gross dissection, casting, ultrasonography, and computed tomography (CT). Representative three-dimensional models of the joint cavities, recesses, and pouches were obtained using different casting agents. This study provides a detailed description of dorsally, axially, and abaxially positioned joint recesses, as well as palmar/plantar positioned joint pouches. The safety and feasibility of the different arthrocentesis approaches were evaluated. The traditional dorsal arthrocentesis approach of the metacarpophalangeal, metatarsophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and distal interphalangeal joints, has limitations due to the risk of damaging the tendon structures and articular cartilage, which can lead to joint degeneration. A lateral arthrocentesis approach via the proximal palmar/plantar pouches of the metacarpophalangeal/metatarsophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints is recommended. This approach eliminates the potential needle injury to the articulating joint cartilage and other surrounding joint structures, such as tendons, blood vessels, and nerves.

One of the most deadly and aggressive cancers in the world, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), typically manifests at an advanced stage. PDAC is becoming more common, and by the year 2030, it is expected to overtake lung cancer as the second greatest cause of cancer-related death. The poor prognosis can be attributed to a number of factors, including difficulties in early identification, a poor probability of curative radical resection, limited response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and its immunotherapy resistance. Furthermore, an extensive desmoplastic stroma that surrounds PDAC forms a mechanical barrier that prevents vascularization and promotes poor immune cell penetration. Phenotypic heterogeneity, drug resistance, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment are the main causes of PDAC aggressiveness. There is a complex and dynamic interaction between tumor cells in PDAC with stromal cells within the tumour immune microenvironment. The immune suppressive microenvironment that promotes PDAC aggressiveness is contributed by a range of cellular and humoral factors, which itself are modulated by the cancer. In this review, we describe the role of innate and adaptive immune cells, complex tumor microenvironment in PDAC, humoral factors, innate immune-mediated therapeutic advances, and recent clinical trials in PDAC.

The complex branching structure of the middle cerebral artery serves as a crucial component in the blood supply to the cerebral cortex, playing a key role in sustaining brain function and overall neurological health in mammals. A thorough understanding of the branching structure of the middle cerebral artery is required for the advancement of veterinary medicine and neuroscience research. In this study, we provide the first comprehensive anatomical analysis of the branching structure of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) in the dromedary brain. To date, no study has examined the MCA branches in dromedaries. By examining 80 cerebral hemispheres from freshly slaughtered male dromedary camels aged 2–6 years, we aimed to explain the origin, course, and branching patterns of the MCA in the dromedary camel. Advanced casting techniques using colored latex, epoxy paint, and liquid plastic have been used to create precise renderings of the MCA structure. Our findings revealed that the MCA is the principal branch of the rostral cerebral artery and serves as the primary blood supply to the telencephalon in dromedaries. The main trunk of the MCA splits into several cortical branches, each supplying blood to a specific cerebral hemisphere. These branches comprise the rostral and caudal olfactory arteries; orbital artery; superior, middle, and inferior frontal arteries; rostral, middle, and caudal parietal arteries; and dorsal, middle, and ventral temporal arteries. This groundbreaking work considerably advances our understanding of the dromedary cerebrovascular system by providing insightful information on the anatomy and topography of the MCA. Our findings open new avenues for advancements in veterinary medicine and neuroscience research, with potential applications in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders in dromedary camels. Furthermore, understanding the unique branching pattern of the MCA may have implications for comparative neuroanatomy and the evolution of cerebrovascular systems across species.

Abstract The knowledge gap regarding the topography and anatomy of the dromedary’s carpal joint must be bridged to improve diagnostic and treatment procedures such as ultrasonography, arthrocentesis, and arthroscopy. Thirty-five distal forelimbs were harvested from 21 dromedaries and studied through gross dissection, casting, ultrasonography, and computerized tomography. Representative three-dimensional models of the joint cavities, recesses, and pouches were obtained using various casting agents. The safety and feasibility of different arthrocentesis approaches were evaluated. This study provides a detailed description of dorsally located joint recesses and palmarly located joint pouches. The dorsomedial and dorsolateral approach is recommended for arthroscopy and arthrocentesis of the radiocarpal and intercarpal joint when the carpus is flexed. However, caution must be exercised during these approaches to prevent needle injury to the articulating cartilage. Caution is necessary to prevent the formation of inadvertent communication between the dorsally located tendon sheaths and joint cavities. Arthrocentesis via the lateral approach to the lateropalmar pouch is the most favourable approach for the radiocarpal joint. A subtendinous synovial bursa was found between the lateropalmar pouch of the radiocarpal joint and the extensor carpi ulnaris muscle. The subtendinous synovial bursa must be considered during the lateral arthrocentesis approach. The palmar approach is not recommended for arthrocentesis due to the high risk of injury to nerves, veins, and arteries located palmarly.

The complement system is a key component of the innate immune response to viruses and proinflammatory events. Exaggerated complement activation has been attributed to the induction of a cytokine storm in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, there is also an argument for the protective role of complement proteins, given their local synthesis or activation at the site of viral infection. This study investigated the complement activation-independent role of C1q and C4b-binding protein (C4BP) against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The interactions of C1q, its recombinant globular heads, and C4BP with the SARS-CoV-2 spike and receptor binding domain (RBD) were examined using direct ELISA. In addition, RT-qPCR was used to evaluate the modulatory effect of these complement proteins on the SARS-CoV-2-mediated immune response. Cell binding and luciferase-based viral entry assays were utilised to assess the effects of C1q, its recombinant globular heads, and C4BP on SARS-CoV-2 cell entry. C1q and C4BP bound directly to SARS-CoV-2 pseudotype particles via the RBD domain of the spike protein. C1q via its globular heads and C4BP were found to reduce binding as well as viral transduction of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein expressing lentiviral pseudotypes into transfected A549 cells expressing human ACE2 and TMPRSS2. Furthermore, the treatment of the SARS-CoV-2 spike, envelope, nucleoprotein, and membrane protein expressing alphaviral pseudotypes with C1q, its recombinant globular heads, or C4BP triggered a reduction in mRNA levels of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as IL-1β, IL-8, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-α, and RANTES (as well as NF-κB) in A549 cells expressing human ACE2 and TMPRSS2. In addition, C1q and C4BP treatment also reduced SARS-CoV-2 pseudotype infection-mediated NF-κB activation in A549 cells expressing human ACE2 and TMPRSS2. C1q and C4BP are synthesised primarily by hepatocytes; however, they are also produced by macrophages, and alveolar type II cells, respectively, locally at the pulmonary site. These findings support the notion that the locally produced C1q and C4BP can be protective against SARS-CoV-2 infection in a complement activation-independent manner, offering immune resistance by inhibiting virus binding to target host cells and attenuating the infection-associated inflammatory response.

Introduction: In mammals, the cerebral cortex depends on a robust blood supply for optimal function. The rostral and caudal cerebral arteries are critical for supplying the cerebrum. This study presents the first detailed anatomical description of the rostral and caudal cerebral arteries of dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius), including their origins, routes, and complex branching patterns. Methods: A sample of 55 heads from male dromedary camels aged 2-6 years was analyzed using advanced casting techniques with various casting materials to provide precise visualization of these arterial structures. Results: The rostral cerebral arteries originate dorsally from the rostral epidural rete mirabile (RERM), while the caudal cerebral arteries arise from the caudal communicating artery, which is another branch of the RERM. Both sets of arteries give rise to multiple cortical branches responsible for supplying the medial aspects of the frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes, as well as the medial and caudal regions of the occipital lobes. Conclusion: This study significantly expands our understanding of the cerebrovascular anatomy of dromedary camels. Our findings have potential implications for veterinary medicine in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders in camels and may offer insights into broader comparative neuroscience research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is hypothesized that in the “more highly evolved” mammals, including the domesticated mammals, that the brainstem and the cerebellum receive arterial blood through the vertebrobasilar system whilst the internal carotid arteries primarily supply the forebrain. In camels, the arterial blood supply to the brain differs from that of ruminants since the internal carotid artery and the rostral epidural rete mirabile (RERM) are both present and the basilar artery contributes a significant proportion of cerebral afferent blood. In this study, we described the anatomical distribution of the vertebrobasilar system arterial supply in the dromedary. Secondly, we determined the direction of blood flow within the vertebral and basilar arteries using transcranial color doppler ultrasonography. Thirdly, we quantified the percentage arterial contributions of the carotid and vertebrobasilar systems to the dromedary brain. Fifty-five heads of freshly slaughtered male Omani dromedaries aged 2–6 years were dissected to determine the distribution and topography of the arterial distribution to the brain. Their anatomical orientation was assessed by casting techniques using epoxy resin, polyurethane resin and latex neoprene. The epoxy resin and polyurethane resin casts of the head and neck arteries were used to measure the diameter of vertebrobasilar arterial system and carotid arterial system at pre-determined locations. These arterial diameters were used to calculate the percentage of blood supplied by each arterial system. The vertebrobasilar system in dromedary camels consists of paired vertebral arteries that contribute to the ventral spinal artery and basilar artery at multiple locations. In most specimens the vertebral artery was the primary contributor to the basilar artery compared to that of the ventral spinal artery. In four specimens the ventral spinal arteries appear to be the dominant contributor to the basilar artery. Transcranial color doppler ultrasonography confirmed that the direction of blood flow within the vertebral and basilar arteries was toward the brain in animals examined in ventral recumbency and when standing. The vertebrobasilar system contributes 34% of the blood supply to the brain. The vertebrobasilar system is the exclusive supply to the medulla oblongata, pons and cerebellum.

To promote the development of an optimally functional total hip prosthesis for medium and large dog breeds, accurate measurements of the normal anatomy of the proximal femur and acetabular retroversion are essential. The aim of the current study was to obtain precise normal values of the femoral anteversion angle using computed tomography on cadavers of mature dogs with normal hip joints of both medium and large breeds. Based on the length of their femora 58 dogs were allocated either to group I: ≤195 mm or group II: >195 mm. In the study the femoral anteversion angle (FAA) was measured on each femur using multi-slice spiral computed tomography (CT). The data were processed as multi-planar and three-dimensional reconstructions using Advantage Workstation software. The CT measurements showed that the mean ± standard deviation (SD) FAA of group I was 31.34 ± 5.47° and in group II it was 31.02 ± 4.95°. There were no significant mean difference associations between the length of the femur and the femoral neck angle in either group (P > 0.05). The data suggest that a prosthesis FAA of 31 degrees would be suitable for a wide range of dog sizes.

The artiodactyl brain has multiple levels of vascular pooling and the rostral epidural rete mirabile (RERM) at its base. The current study is the first of its kind to precisely demonstrate the arterial vasculature of the dromedary brain, utilizing a new casting method with colored latex and epoxy paint. In total, 35 freshly slaughtered dromedary heads were injected with colored latex or colored epoxy paint prior to dissection in order to reveal cerebral vasculature; Ten processed heads were chemically digested with 5% potassium hydroxide to obtain hard casts of cerebral arteries and anastomosing structures. The outcomes of this study ascertain the distinct vascular features of dromedaries that set them apart from other artiodactyls. In addition to the RERM, the dromedary possesses a well-developed ophthalmic and chiasmatic rete. The dromedary is similar to giraffe, goat, cat and pig in the contribution of middle meningeal artery to the rete mirabile; however, dromedaries have several arteries emerging directly from the cerebral arterial circle that supply the choroid plexus and pineal gland. Additionally, dromedaries exhibit a dominant basilar system that dominates the blood supply to the medulla oblongata, pons, and cerebellum. In our study, we were able to graphically prove the lack of connection between the areas supplied by vertebrobasilar system and carotid system in the dromedary. Furthermore, the vertebral artery does not branch into the basilar artery; instead, it acts as a contributing vessel to the ventral spinal artery that later fuse to form the basilar artery. This study employed the new casting method to illustrate a new arterial source to RERM and the various anastomoses among arterial sources supplying the brain in the dromedary. These anastomoses play an important role in maintaining an uninterrupted cerebral blood supply, decreasing the vulnerability of the fragile brain against ischemia and stroke, as well as, play an important role in maintaining blood pressure and flow in long-necked dromedaries when they raise or lower their heads.