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A 17-month-old Warmblood filly was referred to our clinic for evaluation of congenital facial nerve (FN) paralysis. Clinical examination revealed a right-sided facial paralysis with mild masticatory muscle atrophy, mild dysphagia and exposure keratitis. Apart from the FN deficits, neurological examination of the remaining cranial nerves showed no abnormalities. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination using a 3.0 Tesla scanner showed that in comparison to the left FN, the intracranial section of the right FN between the pons and internal acoustic canal was thinner, whereas it appeared indistinct and thickened within the internal acoustic canal and facial canal. Signs of meningitis or encephalitis were not present on MRI. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed mild pleocytosis. The owner of the filly requested euthanasia due to the guarded prognosis. At necropsy, the intracranial section of the right FN was macroscopically thinner than the left side and within the facial canal, a 5 mm tissue stump could be identified with an absent extracranial part of the right FN. Histological examination of the brain stem showed different architecture of the left and right motor nuclei of the FN: in the left nucleus, motor neurons of a normal size and well stainable Nissl bodies were present, whereas in the right nucleus, neurons with Nissl bodies were decreased in number and size. Further, a cytoplasmic rich cell population with a nucleus size compatible with normal neurons was present. These cells were suspected to be atrophic neurons. The tissue stump within the facial canal was histologically identified as connective tissue. Unilateral malformation of the FN has not previously been described in the horse. This filly showed a right-sided, intracranial hypoplasia accompanied by an extracranial aplasia of the FN causing complete, congenital facial nerve paralysis, which corresponded to a difference in the architecture of the affected motor nucleus of the FN.

Urinary incontinence is a widespread problem in both postmenopausal women and ovariectomized dogs. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of ovariectomy on the immunoreactivity and the distribution pattern of collagens I, III, IV and alpha-actin in the canine urethra. The immunohistochemical results were evaluated in five sexually intact and five ovariectomized beagles. The immunostaining of both collagens I and III delineated urethral connective tissue fibres and co-localized within in the fibres of both groups. The basement membranes of smooth muscle cells and sinusoids showed marked type IV collagen expression, whereas only faint immunoreactivity was present at the urothelial-stromal interface. No differences could be detected in the expression or distribution of the assessed collagen types and actin between ovariectomized and control animals. In conclusion, ovariectomy does not appear to have an effect on urethral collagens I, III, IV and smooth muscle actin in the dog, as ascertained by immunohistochemistry.

The present study was undertaken to provide computed tomographic (CT) reference values for structures in the thorax of the calf. Six clinically healthy Holstein-Friesian calves were anaesthetized. Transverse pre- and postcontrast images with a reconstructed 1.5-mm slice thickness were obtained using a multislice-CT scanner at 6 different time points from birth to 105 days of age. Absolute and relative measurements of the trachea, heart, cranial and caudal vena cava, thoracic aorta, right and left principal bronchi, right and left caudal lobar bronchi and the accompanying branches of the right and left pulmonary artery and vein, thoracic lymph nodes and lung density were taken for every time point. All animals were euthanized after the last CT scan, and 4 calves were frozen to generate an atlas comparing gross anatomy with CT. During the study, 4 animals temporarily showed coughing and mucopurulent nasal discharge, and mild to moderate bronchopneumonia and pleuritis were diagnosed using CT. Animals recovered with treatment; however, mild to moderate CT changes remained throughout the study. Even in the 2 clinically normal animals, mild bronchopneumonia was diagnosed on CT.In dieser Arbeit wurden computertomographische (CT) Normalwerte für Strukturen des Thorax beim Kalb erhoben. Sechs klinisch gesunde Holstein-Friesian-Kälber wurden dafür in Vollnarkose von der Geburt bis zum Alter von 105 Tagen 6 mal mit einem Mehrschicht-Computertomographen nativ und angiographisch untersucht. Es wurden Bilder mit einer Schichtdicke von 1.5 mm rekonstruiert. Absolute und relative Messungen des Herzens, der Trachea, Aorta thoracica, Vena cava cranialis und caudalis, Bronchi principales, Bronchi lobares caudales mit den Ästen der Arteriae und Venae pulmonales, Lymphknoten und Lungendichte wurden zu jedem Zeitpunkt ausgeführt. Alle Tiere wurden im Anschluss an die letzte Untersuchung euthanasiert, und 4 Kälber wurden für eine vergleichende Gegenüberstellung der CT Bilder mit anatomischen Schnittbildern tiefgefroren. Während der Studie entwickelten 4 Kälber Husten und Nasenausfluss. Mittels CT wurden eine leicht- bis mittelgradige Bronchopneumonie und Pleuritis diagnostiziert. Obwohl sich die Tiere nach Behandlung vollständig erholten, persistierten leicht- bis mittelgradige CT Veränderungen bis zum Ende der Studie. Selbst bei den beiden klinisch gesunden Tieren wurde im CT eine leichtgradige Bronchopneumonie diagnostiziert.Dans ce travail, on a relevé les valeurs normales de tomodensitométrie pour les structures thoraciques de veaux. Six veaux holstein-friesian en bonne santé ont pour cela été examinés sous narcose à six reprises, de leur naissance à l'âge de 105 jours, au moyen d'un scanner multi-barrettes sous forme native et en angiographie. On a reconstruit des images avec une épaisseur de coupe de 1.5 mm. On a effectué à chaque fois des mesures absolues et relatives du cœur, de la trachée, de l'aorte thoracique, de la veine cave crâniale et caudale, des bronches principales, des bronches lobaires avec les rameaux des artères et des veines pulmonaires, des ganglions lymphatiques ainsi que de la densité pulmonaire. Tous les animaux ont été euthanasiés à l'issue du sixième examen et quatre d'entre eux ont été congelés pour permettre une comparaison entre les images obtenues et des coupes anatomiques. Durant l'étude, quatre veaux ont présenté de la toux et un écoulement nasal. La tomodensitométrie a permis de diagnostiquer une bronchopneumonie légère à moyenne ainsi qu'une pleurésie. Bien que les animaux aient, après traitement, complètement guéri, des modifications légères à moyennes des images tomodensitométriques ont persistés jusqu'à la fin de l'étude. Une légère broncho-pneumonie a même été diagnostiquée chez les deux animaux ne présentant pas de symptômes cliniques.In questo lavoro, sono stati raccolti via tomografia computerizzata (CT) i valori normali delle strutture toraciche nel vitello. Sei vitelli di razza Frisona Holstein clinicamente sani sono stati esaminati per 6 volte, sotto anestesia generale, dalla loro nascita fino all'età di 105 giorni, via tomografia computerizzata multislice e angiografia. Le immagini sono state ricostruite con uno spessore di 1.5 mm. Le misurazioni assolute e relative del cuore, della trachea, dell'aorta toracica, della vena cava craniale e caudale, dei bronchi principali, dei bronchi lobare caudali con i rami delle arterie e delle vene polmonari, dei linfonodi e della densità del polmone sono state eseguite puntualmente. Tutti gli animali sono stati eutanasiati in occasione dell'ultimo esame e 4 vitelli sono stati congelati per un'analisi comparativa delle immagini TC di sezioni anatomiche. Durante lo studio, 4 vitelli hanno sviluppato tosse e secrezioni nasali. Grazie alla CT è stata diagnosticata una da lieve a moderata polmonite bronchiale e pleurite. Sebbene gli animali si siano completamente ristabiliti dopo il trattamento, si sono riscontrate delle leggere a moderate modifiche della CT fino alla fine dello studio. Anche nei due animali clinicamente sani è stata diagnosticata dalla CT una lieve broncopolmonite.

Computed tomographic (CT) images of the reticulum, rumen, omasum and abomasum of five healthy Holstein-Friesian bull calves were compared with anatomical transverse cadaver sections of the same calves. The calves were scanned in the transverse plane from the 5th thoracic vertebra to the sacrum six times three weeks apart from birth to 105 days of age. Multiplanar reconstruction was used to create images in sagittal and dorsal planes. After subjective assessment of various anatomical structures, the rumen, omasum and abomasum as well as the ruminal strata (gas cap, fibre mat and fluid phase) were measured. After the last CT scan, all calves were euthanised, and four were kept at -18 °C in sternal position for 14 days. Transverse sections 1.0 to 1.5 cm thick were made from two calves and dorsal and sagittal sections were made from one calf each using a band saw. The CT images and anatomical slices were compared and the structures on the CT images identified. Very clear CT images were obtained from the reticulum, rumen, omasum and abomasum and there was excellent agreement between images and anatomical slices.In der vorliegenden Arbeit wurden die computertomographischen (CT) Befunde an Haube, Pansen, Psalter und Labmagen von 5 gesunden Kälbern von der Geburt bis zum Alter von 105 Tagen beschrieben und mit denjenigen der postmortalen Untersuchung verglichen. Die Kälber wurden in Abständen von 3 Wochen insgesamt 6 Mal computertomographisch untersucht. Die Untersuchung erfolgte in Transversalschnitten vom fünften Brustwirbel bis zum Sakrum. Mittels multiplanarer Rekonstruktion wurden die Strukturen auch in Sagittal- und Dorsalebenen dargestellt. Im Anschluss an die subjektive Beurteilung wurden verschiedene Strukturen, wie die Ausdehnung von Pansen, Psalter und Labmagen und diejenige der gasförmigen, flüssigen und festen Ingestaphase im Pansen bestimmt. Alle Kälber wurden im Anschluss an die CT-Untersuchung euthanasiert. Vier davon wurden während 14 Tagen bei -18 °C in sternaler Position tiefgefroren. Danach wurden 2 Kälber transversal in 1.0 bis 1.5 cm dicke Scheiben gesägt. Je ein Kalb wurde in Dorsal- bzw. Sagittalschnitten gesägt. Die Schnitte wurden den CT-Bildern der entsprechenden Lokalisation gegenübergestellt, um die abgebildeten Strukturen zu identifizieren. Haube, Pansen, Psalter und Labmagen konnten computertomographisch exakt dargestellt werden. Die Topographie der CT-Bilder und der anatomischen Schnittpräparate stimmten sehr gut überein.Dans le présent travail, on décrit les constatations tomodensitométriques sur la panse, le bonnet, le feuillet et la caillette de 5 veaux mâles en bonne santé dans les 105 premiers jours de vie et on les compare avec les résultats des examens post-mortem. Les veaux ont été examinés au total 6 fois par tomodensitométrie à intervalle de 3 semaines. L'examen a été réalisé par coupes transversales de la 5ème vertèbre thoracale jusqu'au sacrum. On a également reconstitué les structures dans les plans sagittal et dorsal au moyen de reconstruction multi planaires. Après l'examen subjectif, on a défini diverses structures, comme l'extension de la panse, du feuillet et de la caillette et celle des phases gazeuses, liquides et solides de l'ingestat de la panse. Tous les veaux ont été euthanasiés après les examens tomodensitométriques. Quatre d'entre eux ont été congelés durant 14 jours en position sternale à -18 °C. Deux veaux ont ensuite été sciés transversalement en tranches de 1.0 à 1.5 cm d'épaisseur. Un veau a été scié en tranches dorsales et un en tranches sagittales. Les coupes ont été comparées aux images tomodensitométriques afin d'identifier les structures visualisées. Le bonnet, la panse, le feuillet et la caillette ont pu être visualisés de façon exacte par tomodensitométrie. La topographie des images tomodensitométriques et des coupes anatomiques correspondent très bien.In questo studio sono stati descritti i risultati della tomografia computerizzata (CT) del reticolo, rumine, omaso e abomaso di 5 vitelli sani dalla nascita fino al 105esimo giorno di vita e confrontati con le analisi post mortem. I vitelli sono stati esaminati con CT per 6 volte ad intervalli di 3 settimane. L'esame è stato condotto in sezione trasversale dalla quinta vertebra toracica fino al sacro. Con una ricostruzione multiplanare sono state rappresentate le strutture anche sui piani sagittale e dorsale. In seguito alla valutazione soggettiva sono state definite varie strutture come la dilatazione del rumine, dell'omaso e dell'abomaso e infine la dilatazione della fase ingesta gassosa, liquida e solida del rumine. Tutti i vitelli alla fine delle analisi CT sono stati eutanasiati. Quattro di loro sono stati congelati durante 14 giorni a -18 °C in posizione sternale. Dopodiché, 2 vitelli sono stati segati trasversalmente a strati di spessore da 1.0 a 1.5 cm. Un vitello è stato segato in posizione dorsale e uno in posizione sagittale. Le sezioni sono state confrontate alle immagini CT della posizione corrispondente alfine di individuare le strutture raffigurate. Reticolo, rumine, omaso e abomaso sono stati raffigurati esattamente con la CT. La topografia delle immagini CT e gli esami istologici coincidevano molto bene.

Introduction and hypothesis: Urinary incontinence is prevalent in postmenopausal women and spayed dogs and is associated with decreased estrogen plasma concentrations. The objective of the study was to investigate the expression of estrogen receptors (ER) in the urethra of sexually intact, ovariectomized, and estrogen-substituted ovariectomized ewes. Methods: Paraffin cross-sections from each urethral quarter were immunohistochemically analyzed. The reactivity of ER was semiquantitatively assessed employing an immunoreactive score (IRS). Results: In contrast to ERβ, ERα was identified in all urethral compartments; the highest IRS was detected in the epithelium of the distal urethra. The immunoreactivity and distribution of ERα did not differ among groups. Highly significant differences in ERα concentrations were observed between consecutive urethral quarters in each group. Conclusions: Neither ovariectomy nor ovariectomy and estrogen substitution seem to have a significant effect on overall urethral ERα concentration. The results demonstrate that the precise location of the investigated urethral part is crucial to the reliable evaluation or possible comparison of ERα concentrations.

The present study was performed to provide computed tomographic (CT) reference values for structures in the thorax of 26 clinically normal Saanen goats. Animals were anesthetized, positioned in sternal recumbency and transverse images with a reconstructed 1.5mm slice thickness were obtained by use of a 40-slice CT scanner. Absolute and relative measurements of the trachea, heart, cranial vena cava, thoracic aorta, caudal vena cava, right and left principal bronchus, right and left caudal lobar bronchus and the concomitant branch of the right and left pulmonary artery and vein, large caudal mediastinal lymph node and lung density were performed with dedicated software. Minimal to moderate interstitial or bronchopneumonia was incidentally found on CT in 24 animals. In conclusion, CT images obtained in this study can be used as a reference for the evaluation of thoracic diseases in goats.

Background Rabbits are widely accepted as an animal model in neuroscience research. They also represent very popular pet animals, and, in selected clinical cases with neurological signs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be indicated for imaging the rabbit brain. Literature on the normal MRI anatomy of the rabbit brain and associated structures as well as related reference values is sparse. Therefore, it was the purpose of this study to generate an MRI atlas of the normal rabbit brain including the pituitary gland, the cranial nerves and major vessels by the use of a 3 T magnet. Results Based on transverse, dorsal and sagittal T2-weighted (T2w) and pre- and post-contrast 3D T1-weighted (T1w) sequences, 60 intracranial structures were identified and labeled. Typical features of a lissencephalic brain type were described. In the 5 investigated rabbits, on T1w images a crescent-shaped hyperintense area caudodorsally in the pituitary gland most likely corresponded to a part of the neurohypophysis. The optic, trigeminal, and in part, the facial, vestibulocochlear and trochlear nerves were identified. Mild contrast enhancement of the trigeminal nerve was present in all rabbits. Absolute and relative size of the pituitary gland, midline area of the cranial and caudal cranial fossa and height of the tel- and diencephalon, 3rd and 4th ventricles were also determined. Conclusions These data established normal MRI appearance and measurements of the rabbit brain. Results provide reference for research studies in rabbits and, in rare instances, clinical cases in veterinary medicine. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13028-015-0139-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Computed tomography (CT) findings of the liver, spleen and intestines of five healthy calves during six examinations in the first 105 days of life were compared with corresponding cadaver slices. The liver was located in the right hemiabdomen adjacent to the diaphragm and right abdominal wall. The caudal vena cava was seen dorsomedially and the portal vein further ventrally. The umbilical vein was seen running from the navel to the liver in all calves in the first scan and in four calves in the second scan. The spleen ran dorsoventrally adjacent to the costal part of the left abdominal wall and appeared sickle-shaped on transverse images. Differentiation of small and large intestines was only possible when the former contained fluid content and the latter gaseous content. The small intestine was in the left hemiabdomen dorsal to the abomasum and caudodorsal to the rumen at the first two examinations. Growth of the forestomachs caused displacement of the small intestine to the right and toward the ventral abdomen caudal to the liver and adjacent to the right abdominal wall. The large intestine was located caudodorsally, and the typical features of the spiral colon were apparent in the dorsal plane. The location of the caecum varied from dorsal to the spiral colon to adjacent to the right abdominal wall with the apex always pointing caudally. The rectum was easily identified in the pelvic region. The size, volume and density of the described organs throughout the study are shown in several tables.In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden die computertomographischen (CT) Befunde an Leber, Milz und Darm von 5 gesunden Kälbern von der Geburt bis zum Alter von 105 Tagen beschrieben und mit den Befunden der postmortalen Untersuchung verglichen. Die Leber lag in der rechten Hälfte des Abdomens und schmiegte sich an das Zwerchfell und die rechte Bauchwand an. Dorsomedial waren die V. cava caudalis und etwas weiter ventral davon die Portalvene zu erkennen. Bei den ersten beiden Untersuchungen war zudem die vom Nabel zur Leber ziehende V. umbilicalis zu sehen. Die Milz wies in der tranversalen Ebene die Form eines Sensenblatts auf. Sie lag der linken rippengestützten Bauchwand unmittelbar an und erstreckte sich von dorsal nach ventral. Die Unterscheidung zwischen Dünn- und Dickdarm war möglich, wenn der Dünndarm flüssigen Inhalt und der Dickdarm Gas enthielt. Der Dünndarm lag bei den ersten beiden Untersuchungen links der Medianen, dorsal des Labmagens und kaudal des Pansens im dorsalen Bereich des Abdomens. Durch die Zunahme der Vormagenvolumina wurden die Dünndärme nach rechts verschoben, so dass sie kaudal der Leber ins ventrale Abdomen zu liegen kamen und der rechten Bauchwand unmittelbar anlagen. Der Dickdarm lag im kaudodorsalen Bereich des Abdomens. In der dorsalen Ebene konnte die typische Anordnung des Colons ascendens (Colonscheibe) auf der Gekröseplatte erkannt werden. Die Lage des Zäkums variierte von dorsal der Colonscheibe bis rechts entlang der Bauchwand, wobei das blinde Ende stets nach kaudal zeigte. Das Rektum war im Beckenbereich gut zu identifizieren. Ausdehnung, Volumen und Dichte der verschiedenen Organe über die 6 CT-Untersuchungen wurde in mehreren Tabellen dargestellt.Dans le présent travail, on décrit les constatations tomodensitométriques sur le foie, la rate et les intestins de 5 veaux mâles en bonne santé dans les 105 premiers jours de vie et on les compare avec les résultats des examens post-mortem. Le foie se situait dans la moitié droite de l'abdomen et était accolé au diaphragme et à la paroi abdominale droite. La veine cave caudale et, légèrement ventralement à elle, la veine porte étaient reconnaissables. Lors des deux premiers examens, on pouvait en outre visualiser la veine ombilicale qui va du nombril au foie. La rate présentait dans son plan transverse une forme de faux. Elle se situait juste à côté de la paroi abdominale gauche soutenue par les côtes et s'étendait de dorsal à ventral. La différentiation entre intestin grêle et gros intestin était possible lorsque le grêle contenait du liquide et le gros intestin du gaz. Lors des deux premiers examens, l'intestin grêle se situait à gauche de la ligne médiane, dorsalement à la caillette et caudalement à la panse, dans la partie dorsale de l'abdomen. L'augmentation du volume des pré-estomacs repoussait ensuite l'intestin grêle vers la droite, de sorte qu'ils se trouvaient caudalement au foie dans la partie ventrale de l'abdomen, contre la paroi abdominale droite. Le gros intestin se trouvait dans la partie caudo-dorsale de l'abdomen. On pouvait reconnaitre dorsalement l'organisation typique du colon ascendant (anse spirale) sur la plaque mésentérique. La position du caecum variait entre dorsalement à l'anse spirale du colon et le côté droit, le long de la paroi abdominale, la pointe du caecum étant toujours dirigée vers l'arrière. Le rectum était facilement identifiable dans la zone pelvienne. L'extension, le volume et la densité des divers organes au cours des 6 examens tomodensitométriques sont résumés dans plusieurs tableaux.In questo studio sono stati descritti i risultati della tomografia computerizzata (CT) di fegato, milza e intestino di 5 vitelli sani dalla nascita fino al 105esimo giorno di vita e confrontati con le analisi post mortem. Il fegato era situato nella metà destra dell'addome e aderiva al diaframma e alla parete destra addominale. Si distinguevano in senso dorso-mediale la vena cava caudale e più anteriormente la vena porta. Nei primi due studi era visibile la vena ombelicale tra ombelico e fegato. La milza in sezione trasversale aveva una forma falciforme, ed era addossata alla parete addominale sinistra sostenuta dalle costole e che si estende dalla direzione dorsale a quella ventrale. La distinzione tra intestino tenue e crasso era possibile solo quando l'intestino tenue conteneva liquidi e il crasso dei gas. L'intestino tenue, nei primi due esami, era situato a sinistra della linea mediana, dorsalmente all'abomaso e caudale al rumine nella regione dorsale dell'addome. Con l'aumento del volume del rumine, gli intestini tenui vengono spostati a destra, in modo da trovarsi in posizione caudale al fegato nell'addome ventrale e appoggiati direttamente alla parete addominale destra. L'intestino crasso è situato nella zona caudo-dorsale dell'addome. A livello dorsale si è potuto riconoscere la tipica disposizione del colon ascendente sul mesenterio. La posizione del cieco variava dal colon ascendente dorsale fino a destra lungo la parete addominale in cui l'estremità cieca si presentava in direzione caudale. Il retto era ben identificabile nella zona delle pelvi. Dilatazione, volumi e densità dei vari organi dei 6 esami CT sono stati rappresentati in varie tabelle.

Computed tomographic (CT) findings of the urinary tract and adrenal glands of five healthy male calves in the first 105 days of life were compared with corresponding cadaver slices. The structures seen on CT images were identified using the corresponding cadaver slices. CT produced exact images of the kidneys, urinary bladder, urethra and adrenal glands, but reliable images of the ureters were only obtained near the renal hilus. There was excellent agreement between the structures on the CT images and the tissue slices. The structure and vessels of the kidneys, the origin of the ureters, the location, size and content of the urinary bladder and the course of the urethra in the pelvis and penis were evident on images. The size and volume of the kidneys and the length and width of the adrenal glands increased significantly during the study, but the ureteral and urethral diameters changed little.In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden die computertomographischen (CT) Befunde an Harnapparat und Nebennieren von 5 gesunden männlichen Kälbern von der Geburt bis zum Alter von 105 Tagen beschrieben und mit denjenigen der postmortalen Untersuchung verglichen. Nieren, Harnblase, Urethra und Nebennieren konnten computertomographisch exakt dargestellt werden, während die Ureteren nur im Bereich des Hilus renalis zuverlässig identifiziert werden konnten. Die Topographie der Organe bzw. der Strukturen und der anatomischen Schnittpräparate stimmten sehr gut überein. An den Nieren waren die Struktur und die Blutgefässe, an den Ureteren deren Anfangsteil, an der Harnblase Lage, Grösse und Inhalt und an der Urethra der Verlauf im Becken und Penis zu sehen. Die Ausdehnung und das Volumen der Nieren nahmen von der ersten bis zur sechsten Untersuchung signifikant zu. Das Gleiche gilt für die Länge und Breite der Nebennieren, während sich die Durchmesser von Ureteren und Urethra kaum veränderten.Dans le présent travail, on décrit les constatations tomodensitométriques sur l'appareil urinaire et les surrénales de 5 veaux mâles en bonne santé dans les 105 premiers jours de vie et on les compare avec les résultats des examens post-mortem. Il est possible de visualiser exactement les reins, la vessie, l'urètre et les surrénales par tomodensitométrie alors que les uretères ne peuvent être identifiés de façon sûre que dans la zone du hile rénal. La topographie des organes et leur structure correspondent très bien aux coupes anatomiques. Il est possible de visualiser la structure et les vaisseaux des reins, le début des uretères, la position, la taille et le contenu de la vessie et le parcours de l'urètre dans le bassin et le pénis. L'extension et le volume des reins augmentent de façon significative entre le premier et le sixième examen. Il en est de même pour la longueur et la largeur des surrénales, alors que les diamètres des uretères et de l'urètre ne changent presque pas.In questo studio sono stati descritti i risultati della tomografia computerizzata (CT) dell'apparato urinario e delle ghiandole surrenali di 5 vitelli sani dalla nascita fino al 105esimo giorno di vita e confrontati con le analisi post mortem. Reni, vescica, ureteri e ghiandole surrenali possono essere visualizzati precisamente tramite la tomografia computerizzata, mentre gli ureteri possono essere localizzati solo in modo affidabile nella zona dell'ilo renale. La topografia risp. le strutture degli organi e i preparati anatomici coincidevano molto bene. Ben visibili nei reni vi erano la struttura e i vasi sanguigni, negli ureteri la loro parte iniziale, nella vescica la posizione, le dimensioni e il contenuto e nell'uretra il corso nelle pelvi e nel pene. La dilatazione e i volumi dei reni aumentavano significativamente dalla prima alla sesta analisi. Lo stesso vale per le lunghezze e le larghezze delle ghiandole surrenali, mentre il diametro degli ureteri e dell'uretra rimaneva quasi immutato.

The vascular system of the female canine urethra was investigated by means of serial histological sections, vascular corrosion casts and scanning electron microscopy. The urethral vascular plexus, located in the proprial connective tissue between the epithelium and the smooth musculature, consisted of sinusoids. It could be divided distally into two parts defined by a constriction in the transitory region between the third and fourth urethral quarters. The proximal segment of the plexus was composed of interconnected longitudinal tubes, whereas the distal part assumed a more net-like form and was continuous with the vestibular plexus. Small arteries usually ran alongside the sinusoidal vessels for a considerable distance before emptying either directly or through branches into the plexus. This vascular arrangement establishes the vascular plexus as a structure similar to an erectile tissue with an arterial inflow, thereby emphasizing the importance of the plexus as a major contributory component guaranteeing urinary continence.

This study describes the findings of computed tomography (CT) of the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder and adrenal glands in 28 healthy female Saanen goats. CT examination and anatomical slice preparation postmortem was performed as described in the first communication. After subjective evaluation of the CT images, various variables including the size, volume and density of the kidneys, the diameter of the ureters and the size of the adrenal glands were measured. The targeted organs could be accurately visualised using CT and there was very good topographical agreement between the CT images and the anatomical preparations. The kidneys, renal vessels, ureters, urinary bladder and adrenal glands were seen in all goats.

This study describes the results of computed tomography (CT) of the liver, spleen, abomasum, small intestine and large intestine in 30 healthy Saanen goats. CT examination and anatomical slice preparation postmortem were performed as described in the first communication. After subjective evaluation of the CT images, various variables including the length/size, volume and density of the liver, spleen and gallbladder, the wall thickness of the abomasum, small intestine and large intestine and the diameter of the intestine were measured. The liver, spleen, abomasum, small intestine and large intestine could be accurately visualised using CT.

Computed tomography (CT) of the reticulum, rumen and omasum was carried out in 30 healthy goats and the images were compared to corresponding body sections obtained at postmortem. A multidetector CT was used to examine goats in sternal recumbency. A setting of 120 KV and 270 mA was used to produce 1.5-mm transverse slices from the fifth thoracic vertebra to the sacrum. Soft tissue structures were assessed in a soft tissue with a window width (W) of 400 Hounsfield Units (HU), and a window level (L) of 40 HU. The layering of the ruminal contents was assessed in an ingesta window with a W of 1500 HU and an L of 30 HU. After subjective evaluation, the size of the rumen and omasum, the thickness of the walls of the reticulum, rumen and omasum and the height of the gas cap and fibre and liquid phases of the rumen were measured. Fifteen goats were euthanised after CT examination, placed in sternal recumbency and frozen at -18 ºC for three to 10 days. Thirteen goats were then cut into 1.0- to 1.5-cm-thick transverse slices. One goat was cut in dorsal-plane slices and another in sagittal slices. The structures in the CT images were identified by using the corresponding anatomical slices.

Collagen and smooth muscle cells play essential roles in the remodelling of uterine tissue during pregnancy and involution. To investigate the immunoreactivity and distribution pattern of collagen types I, III, IV and smooth muscle alpha-actin resulting from these processes, two homogenous groups of nulliparous and multiparous beagles were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Immunostaining patterns of collagens I and III delineated the uterine connective tissue fibers and revealed their dual presence within fibers of both beagle groups. Collagen III staining, in particular, was more pronounced and especially evident in superficial fiber sections. The numerous, large arteries in the myometrial stratum vasculare of multiparous uteri exhibited a highly thickened intima, which distinctly expressed type I and III collagens. Intense collagen IV immunolabeling was discernable in the basement membranes of vascular endothelia and smooth muscle cells. Staining of the basement membranes of the luminal and glandular epithelia, conversely, was either absent or very weak. No difference in the immunoreactivity and distribution of the assessed collagens and actin could be detected between nulliparous and multiparous dogs. Overall, and with the exception of sclerotic arteries, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the expression of uterine collagens and actin does not change in the uterus of multiparous beagles, even after seven elapsed pregnancies.

Fiber-type composition and several stereological parameters of the levator ani (pubocaudal) muscle were evaluated in five nulliparous and five multiparous beagles using myosin ATPase-histochemistry and systematically selected muscle cross-sections. With respect to the narrow canine pelvic cavity, this study was also undertaken to determine whether vaginal birth of at least seven litters causes similar neuromuscular changes in the canine levator ani (pubocaudal) muscle analoguous to those seen in the pelvic floor muscles of women after vaginal delivery. The canine pubocaudal muscle is comprised of approximately equal amounts of slow twitch type I and fast twitch type II (IIA, IIS) fibers. The muscles of both the nulliparous and multiparous beagles did not display any signs indicative of denervation or myopathology. The multiparous dogs exhibited significantly increased mean absolute muscle (1720 mm 3 ) and total fiber-type I volumes (850 mm 3 ) as well as relevantly increased mean diameter of type I fibers (72.0 μm) when compared with the nulliparous group. The canine levator ani (pubocaudal) muscle is not pathologically affected by vaginal deliveries and seems to adapt to numerous successive pregnancies and births through fiber-type I hypertrophy.

Objective—To macroscopically, histomorphologically, and morphometrically compare uterine tissues obtained from nulliparous and multiparous dogs. Animals—12 dogs constituting 2 homogenous groups (7 nulliparous Beagles and 5 multiparous Beagles, each of which had at least 7 pregnancies). Procedure—Serum concentrations of progesterone and estradiol-17β were determined. Samples of uterine tissues were fixed, embedded in paraffin, and cut into serial cross sections. Morphometric analysis was performed on systematically selected trichromestained sections. Results—Mean absolute volume of the uterine wall did not differ between groups. Volume of blood vessels was significantly higher and relative mean value for myometrial connective tissue was significantly lower in the multiparous dogs. Arteries in the myometrium of multiparous dogs had pronounced thickening of the intima (ie, pregnancy sclerosis) and a concomitant thinning of the smooth muscle layer (tunica media). Furthermore, the elastica interna of these arteries appeared to be disintegrating and was highly and irregularly folded. Adventitia of the myometrial veins in multiparous dogs contained numerous layers of elastic fibers; however, only a few layers were observed in the adventitia of corresponding veins in nulliparous dogs. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In this study, we documented that in contrast to other species, the uterus of nonpregnant dogs does not increase in size and volume even after at least 7 pregnancies. Furthermore, sclerotic alterations of uterine arteries are proof of at least 1 pregnancy. Results of this study may be useful in the evaluation of uterine diseases. ( Am J Vet Res 2004;65:552–558)

Slow and fast twitch fibres of the Mm. tibialis cranialis, semitendinosus and sartorius of seven sexually intact and seven ovarectomized female beagles were histochemically and morphometrically analysed. Along with type I and type IIA fibres, another main type II fibre (IIS), which seems to be peculiar to the dog, was found in the Mm. semitendinosus and tibialis cranialis. Type I fibers comprised 26% and type II fibres 74% of all recorded muscle fibres in the M. tibialis cranialis, 29% (type I) and 71% (type II) in the M. semitendinosus and 51% (type I) and 49% (type II) in the M. sartorius, respectively. The average single profile area and the corresponding mean diameter of fibre types I and II in the investigated hind limb muscles were generally larger in ovarectomized than in sexually intact animals. This was more evident in type II than in type I fibres. However only the type II fibres of the M. tibialis cranialis and sartorius exhibited a statistically significant increase in diameter (p0.01 and p0.05, respectively). Accordingly, the mean density (number of fibres/mm2) of both fibre types in the hind limb muscles of spayed dogs was generally reduced. Again, this reduction attained statistical relevance in the type I and II fibres of the tibialis cranialis. In addition, the fibre densities of type I in the semitendinosus and type II in the sartorius muscles were also significantly reduced in ovarectomized dogs. In conclusion, ovarectomized beagles showed a generally increased mean diameter of the investigated type I and II hind limb muscle fibres and a concomitant decreased average fibre density of the respective types when compared to sexually intact animals.

Slow and fast twitch fibres were stereologically analysed in the morphologically defined and most strongly developed ventral and ventrolateral region of the external urethral sphincter (M. urethralis) using five sexually intact anestrous and five ovariectomized nulliparous beagles. The estimated mean total cross-sectional area of the investigated part of the muscle consisted of 4.2 mm2 (15.1%) type I fibre, 10.0 mm2 (32.1%) type II fibre, and 16.3 mm2 (52.8%) connective tissue in the control group. The corresponding absolute mean value of type I fibres (3.7 mm2/13.5%) was statistically lower in ovariectomized animals. No significant difference between groups was observed in the relative number of transverse profiles of type I and II fibres; type I fibres comprised 23.8% and type II 76.2% of all muscle fibres in the sexually intact group, but 21.8% and 78.2% in the ovariectomy group, respectively. The ovariectomized dogs exhibited a statistically significant lower type I and II fibre number and a concomitant slightly larger mean single profile area (diameter) of fibre type II compared with the control animals. The significantly reduced number and decreased total cross-sectional area of the fatigue-resistant type I fibres in ovariectomized dogs suggest a predominant weakening of the fibre type I portion of the M. urethralis as consequence of ovariectomy. The effect could be mediated by sex hormonal factors and may contribute to the development of postspaying urinary incontinence in female dogs.

The perfusion-fixed urethrae of 5 sexually intact nulliparous and 5 ovario-hysterectomized beagles were analyzed stereologically. Different urethral tissue components were estimated stereologically in each of the three proximal urethral quarters and compared between the two groups of dogs. Considerable individual variability within all groups was observed. In all the three urethral quarters considered, average smooth muscle and connective tissue volumes were generally lower in spayed than in intact animals, both in absolute and relative terms. However, only the difference between the mean relative volumes of urethral quarter I was statistically significant. In contrast, mean absolute and relative volumes of the vascular plexus were generally greater in the ovariohysterectomized dogs as compared to the animals of the other group – deviations in statistical relevance concerning the first urethral quarter were noted. Mean epithelial and striated muscle volumes did not vary essentially between the spayed and intact group of dogs. Despite the fact that all findings were not always statistically meaningful, our research nevertheless demonstrates that ovariohysterectomy decreases smooth muscle mass and connective tissue; it also elevates vascular plexus volumes in the urethra of spayed animals. Moreover, our results imply a general weakening of the urethral wall as a sequel to ovariohysterectomy, and this, in turn, could be seen to affect the closure mechanism of the urethra.

The M. urethralis was morphologically investigated in ten medium-sized female dogs of different breeds and age, as well as histochemically and stereologically analysed in a homogeneous group of five female beagles. Macroscopically, the muscle was essentially confined to the distal third and most strongly developed in the fourth quarter of the urethra. Here, it surrounded the urethra transversely at the ventral and lateral aspects, passing with its caudal fibres dorsally onto the vagina. The muscle fibres were assembled in groups of different sizes and usually separated by thick connective tissue septae. Based on the myofibrillar actomyosin ATPase (mATPase) reaction, type I and two main subtype II fibres could be differentiated. Type II fibres were, however, indistinguishable by their metabolic enzyme activities since both subclasses displayed oxidative-glycolytic properties. The subtype II fibres containing the more acid-labile mATPase activity were classified as IIA, whereas the other main subtype was designated IIS (subtype) and considered as peculiar to the dog. In addition, the investigation revealed a rare fibre type exhibiting the histochemical profile of IIC fibres. There was no evidence of classical glycolytic IIB fibres. The M. urethralis was composed of 24% type I and 76% type II fibres with an average diameter of 34.9 and 28.5 microns, respectively. Connective tissue constituted 52.8% of the total muscle volume. Due to the predominance of fast twitch II fibres, the urethral muscle is not designed to maintain a high tone over long periods of time. Its primary role is to function rapidly and intermittently guaranteeing urinary continence during stress situations when other continence factors are overburdened.

Previous studies using MC-ICP-MS for high precision isotope ratio analysis revealed that human blood is enriched in light iron isotopes relative to dietary iron. Moreover, distinct differences in blood iron isotopic patterns between individual subjects can be observed. Discrimination of heavy iron isotopes during uptake of dietary iron in the gastrointestinal tract may explain this observation. This hypothesis was now tested in the pig model. Samples of tissues relevant to iron metabolism were screened for iron isotopic patterns using MC-ICP-MS, revealing considerable isotope fractionation during intestinal uptake on one hand and during distribution between body tissues on the other hand. Light iron isotopes are enriched in the gastrointestinal mucosa relative to feed, with isotopic patterns reflecting major iron absorption sites in mammals along the gut. While heavy iron isotopes are enriched in the liver, spleen and bone marrow, light isotopes are enriched in red blood cells. Well-established links between iron absorption efficiency and iron distribution between functional compartments and stores point to blood iron isotope signatures as a novel type of compound biomarker of element metabolism.

Perfusion-fixed urethrae of five sexually intact nulliparous female beagles in anestrus, between 2 and 3 years of age, were morphologically and morphometrically investigated. Absolute and relative volumes of different tissue components were stereologically estimated per urethral quarter. A discrete smooth muscle sphincter could neither be identified in the bladder neck nor in the urethra. However, the circularly arranged smooth muscle fibers in the proximal half of the urethra were regarded as being capable of sphincteric function. The connective tissue, composed of collagenous and longitudinally orientated numerous elastic fibers, accounted for the most predominant constituent. It comprised 77.3 to 78.2% of the total volume in the proximal three urethral quarters. The vascular plexus was most prominently developed in the proximal two urethral quarters, and its relative and absolute volumes significantly exceeded those of the third quarter. The discovered direct connections between small arteries and the sinusoids of the vascular plexus emphasize its importance as a major contributory component to urinary continence. The striated musculus urethralis was essentially confined to the distal half of the urethra and most strongly developed in the fourth quarter, where it surrounded the urethra transversely at its ventral and lateral aspects. The caudal muscle fibers continued dorsally to the vagina. A transitional epithelium bounded the urethral lumen. Its superficial cell layer progressively flattened towards the external urethral orifice, changing into a stratified squamous lining as also seen in the vestibulum. Recorded pressures, or pressure changes, could neither be correlated with volumes nor with morphology of particular tissue elements in the different urethral quarters.