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The contraction of lowland forests throughout Europe began in remote times and then intensified strongly with land reclamation by agriculture and urbanization during the first half of the last century. We present a map of the Floodplain Woods of Tuscany on a scale of 1:300,000 as a synthesis of that built at the scale of 1:10,000 and the methods used to obtain it. Nearly 90% of the patches contain habitats of concern to conservation, according to the Habitat Directive. The Tuscan Floodplain Woods remained prevalent in coastal areas, where some levels of protection are guaranteed by the presence of several protected areas, whereas they have practically vanished in the other parts of the regional territory. The resulting patches are very small and distant from each other, so only in-depth management of all potential floodplain forest areas, taking into consideration patches for their regeneration, can be useful to assure their conservation.

The recent Landscape Plan of Tuscany Region pays particular attention towards the floodplain woods, for their conservation concern, landscape, and historical importance. The floodplain forest vegetation is defined as the natural and semi-natural wood vegetation located close to the rivers and submerged only during exceptional flooding. We gathered 180 both published and unpublished relevés coming from Tuscany and carried out in floodplain woods, where Alnus glutinosa, Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. oxycarpa, Quercus robur, Ulmus minor, Carpinus betulus, Populus nigra, P. alba and Salix alba were dominant, alone or in consociation with each other. On this dataset we performed a multivariate analysis, and the resulting groups were characterized by several points of view: floristic, ecological, chorological, by mean of diagnostic species, with the use of EIV. Moreover, their distribution in Tuscany was better defined. According to our results, six associations were found to be present in Tuscany. Thereby, one new association and three new subassociations were proposed. The syntaxonomic arrangement above the association level was discussed, with particular attention to the Italian Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. oxycarpa-rich communities. Finally, a comparison with the Annex I habitat types (sensu Directive 92/43/EEC) was carried out.

In the present article, the results of the first-stage of monitoring, following restoration works on a small Mediterranean wetland (Lake Stagnone, Capraia Island, Tuscan Archipelago), are reported. The recent spread of Typha and Phragmites in the lake changed diversity and composition of the plant communities. Nine years after their first monitoring (2009), a rarefaction of hydrophytes and small helophytes of conservation interest was detected. In 2010, the restoration started with the aim to remove (or at least reduce) the populations of the large, expansive helophytes. In 2012, the first post-actions monitoring were carried out using the same methods as previously, analysing the plant presence/absence and their cover value recorded in the same 15 plots selected in 2000 and 2009. The rise and fall of the populations of the various flora and vegetation types during this invasion process and the following restoration were statistically analysed. One year following the restoration, some recovery (replacement) had occurred of autochthonous hydrophytes and small helophytes. Many of these species are of conservation interest. Some aquatic plants, present on the site until the more or less recent past, were once more recorded. Given the rapid recovery of populations of many autochthonous species, the results are reasonably encouraging, rendering planned reintroductions unnecessary at the moment. On the other hand, because of the short time elapsed since restoration, the current community structure cannot in any way be considered an “equilibrium” one. Continued and regular monitoring is required to allow the reestablishment of the large expansive helophytes populations.

I analyze the amount of wood samples resulting from coppicing and the recent years trend based on national and regional inventories data and on the “Report on the state of forests in Tuscany, 2008”. I highlight the difficulty in assessing a relationship between forest planning and protection of natural elements susceptible to deterioration of old forests. I also point out the difficulty of choosing appropriate indicators and investigation scale. Finally I analyze the regional laws in force, highlighting the rules can be critical for the habitat and/or the species of conservation concern.

No study has evaluated circulating CXCL10 in patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic infection. The aim of this study is to measure inteferon-inducible protein 10 (CXCL10/IP-10), interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) (Th1 cytokines) in a series of cryoglobulinemic patients and to correlate this parameter to the clinical phenotype.Serum CXCL10, IFN-gamma, and TNF-alpha were assayed in 102 patients with hepatitis C-associated cryoglobulinemia (MC + HCV), in 102 sex- and age-matched patients with type C chronic hepatitis without cryoglobulinemia (HCV+), and in 102 sex- and age-matched controls.Cryoglobulinemic patients showed significantly higher mean CXCL10 serum levels than controls (P0.0001) or HCV+ patients (P0.0001) (397 +/- 132 pg/mL, 92 +/- 53 pg/mL, 280 +/- 149 pg/mL, respectively). Moreover, CXCL10 was significantly increased in 30 cryoglobulinemic patients with active vasculitis compared to those without it (460 +/- 104 pg/mL vs 369 +/- 139 pg/mL, respectively; P0.001). Both groups of MC + HCV patients with or without active vasculitis had serum CXCL10 significantly higher than HCV+ patients (P0.001, P= 0.02, respectively). IFN-gamma levels were not significantly different in MC + HCV than in HCV+ patients or controls. Serum TNF-alpha levels were significantly higher in MC + HCV than in HCV+ patients or controls (median [interquartile range]: 12.0 [9.8], 5.7 [5.4], 1.3 [2.1] pg/mL, respectively; P0.0001).The study demonstrates high CXCL10 and TNF-alpha serum levels in patients with hepatitis C-associated cryoglobulinemia. Moreover, in MC + HCV patients, increased CXCL10 levels were significantly associated with the presence of active vasculitis.

Mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) is a systemic small-vessel vasculitis; B-cell expansion is the biological substrate of the disease. It can be regarded as benign lymphoproliferative condition that may evolve to frank lymphoma. HCV infection is the main causative factor of MC, as well as of other overlapping disorders, through multifactorial and multistep pathogenetic process. HCV-related B-cell proliferation represents an important model of virus-driven autoimmune/neoplastic disorder. The term HCV syndrome is referred to a wide spectrum of both hepatic and extrahepatic disorders. The present review analyzes the complex virological, clinico-pathological, and therapeutic implications of B-cell proliferation, with or without HCV infection, in MC patients.

A revised concept of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) on both historical and practical grounds is presented. The main histological findings are illustrated with special reference to the cytological spectrum that is characteristic of the tumor. The phenotype is described in detail. The expression of the ALK protein as well as the chromosomal abnormalities that sustain it, are discussed along with potential pathogenetic implications. The clinical features of ALCL are presented by underlying the dramatic difference in terms of response to therapy and survival between ALK-positive and ALK-negative forms. The possibility of limiting the term ALCL to systemic ALK+ anaplastic tumors with T/null phenotype is considered.

Despite its well known histological and clinical features, Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) has recently been the object of intense research activity, leading to a better understanding of its phenotype, molecular characteristics, histogenesis, and possible mechanisms of lymphomagenesis. There is complete consensus on the B cell derivation of the tumour in most cases, and on the relevance of Epstein-Barr virus infection and defective cytokinesis in at least a proportion of patients. The REAL/WHO classification recognises a basic distinction between lymphocyte predominance HL (LP-HL) and classic HL (CHL), reflecting the differences in clinical presentation and behaviour, morphology, phenotype, and molecular features. CHL has been classified into four subtypes: lymphocyte rich, nodular sclerosing, with mixed cellularity, and lymphocyte depleted. The borders between CHL and anaplastic large cell lymphoma have become sharper, whereas those between LP-HL and T cell rich B cell lymphoma remain ill defined. Treatments adjusted to the pathobiological characteristics of the tumour in at risk patients have been proposed and are on the way to being applied.

We described the self-poisoning of two young adolescents who took improper doses of two major cardiovascular drugs: propafenone and verapamil. The young girls developed markedly different clinical patterns: ECG abnormalities without clinical consequences were found in one case progressively ingravescent ECG abnormalities leading to cardiac arrest in the other. These differences are probably due to varying doses taken and metabolic states. Conventional detoxication and resuscitation techniques proved successful in both cases.

This paper presents the main design criteria and characteristics of a new digital radio-relay equipment, operating at 8 GHz with 34 Mb/s rate, together with the results of the performance tests. In particular the problems posed by the use of an analogue frequency band have been carefully analyzed.

Le mucormicosi sono infezioni fungine molto invasive e aggressive causate da miceti appartenenti all’ordine Mucorales. In medicina umana colpiscono prevalentemente pazienti con fattori predisponenti quali granulocitopenia, immunosoppressione, diabete mellito e traumi penetranti (Cornely et al., 2014, Clin microbiol infect, 20 (suppl 3) 5-26). Noi riportiamo un caso di un cane maschio meticcio di 9 anni affetto da ipercortisolismo e diabete mellito in cura con trilostano 40mg q24h per via orale (Vetoryl®) ed insulina (Caninsulin®) 12UI q12h per via sottocutanea. Il soggetto è stato presentato presso l’Ospedale Didattico Veterinario dell’Università di Bologna per una tumefazione a livello di regione periorbitale destra insorta da circa un mese. La lesione si presentava ulcerata con gemizio di materiale purulento ed edema perilesionale. Il soggetto presentava inoltre poliuria/polidipsia, polifagia, addome a botte e malattia parodontale grave. In diagnosi differenziale sono state considerate: fistola odontopatica, piodermite secondaria a presenza di corpi estranei e/o trauma, anche se non riportato, o un processo neoplastico. Il protocollo diagnostico ha incluso: esame emocromocitometrico, profilo biochimico, esame delle urine, tamponi cutanei per esame batteriologico con antibiogramma, agoaspirato per valutazione citologica. Gli esami emato-biochimici hanno mostrato alterazioni compatibili con ipercortisolismo e diabete mellito non controllati. L’esame colturale rilevava la presenza di Staphylococcus pseudointermedius, E.coli e Acinetobacter baummanni/calcoaceticus sensibili unicamente ad amikacina ed imipenem. E’ stata dunque intrapresa una terapia antibiotica con amikacina (15 mg/kg q12h per via endovenosa), che ha determinato un miglioramento parziale e transitorio del quadro clinico. L’esame citologico ha messo in evidenza un quadro di infiammazione cronica piogranulomatosa e presenza di ife non settate. Il dato è stato confermato da un esame istologico su biopsie cutanee della lesione periorbitale. L’esame colturale ha condotto all’isolamento di un micete a rapida crescita riconducibile a Mucorales. L’analisi molecolare ha permesso di identificare l’isolato come Rhizopus oryzae. L’approccio terapeutico previsto in medicina umana è multimodale ed include il controllo della patologia sottostante, l’utilizzo di antimicotici e l’eventuale rimozione chirurgica del tessuto necrotico, quando possibile. In medicina umana i principi attivi raccomandati sono le soluzioni liposomiali di amfotericina B e il posaconazolo (Cornely et al, 2014 l.c.). Non essendo stato possibile impiegare queste formulazioni visti gli elevati costi, è stata impostata una terapia antimicotica con itraconazolo 10 mg/kg q24h per via orale e terbinafina 1% (Lamisil®) localmente q12h. Tale terapia si è rilevata efficace inizialmente nel ridurre l’estensione delle lesioni cutanee, tuttavia, tuttavia nei successivi 15 giorni l’aggravamento progressivo delle condizioni cliniche ha indotto a procedere con l’eutanasia del soggetto. In campo umano i pazienti con diabete rappresentano una elevata percentuale dei soggetti con mucormicosi e la localizzazione rino-orbito-cerebrale è fra le più frequenti, come pure R. orizae è l’agente eziologico più frequentemente identificato (Cornely et al., 2014, l.c.). In letteratura non sono invece documentate nel cane infezioni sostenute da Mucorales, in conclusione questo è il primo caso di mucormicosi descritta in un cane che, analogamente a quanto riportato nell’uomo, presentava grave immunodepressione secondaria a diabete mellito, in questo caso associato anche ad ipercortisolismo. L’impossibilità di effettuare un trattamento terapeutico di elezione e la mancanza di casistica in letteratura non consentono di valutare in termini prognostici l’impatto di questa infezione nel cane.

Procalcitonin (PCT), recognised as a marker of sepsis, was investigated in a porcine model of endotoxic shock. The results showed that continuous IV infusion (1–4 h) of LPS (40 μg/kg) in pigs was able to induce a generalised increase of PCT expression in lung, heart, kidney and liver. The increase in PCT was significant only in kidney and was accompanied by an increase in IL-6 gene expression. In vitro results demonstrated that peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), as well as endothelial cells, were potentially capable of contributing to in vivo extrathyroidal PCT production. These findings support previous data from pigs concerning the occurrence of widespread activation of PCT extrathyroidal gene expression during endotoxic shock in pigs. Nevertheless, the levels of PCT detected were very low, suggesting the need for additional studies to validate the pig as a reliable animal model for investigating the role of PCT in sepsis.

Introduction/Objectives: Ionized Hypocalcemia (iHCa) is a common electrolyte disturbance in critically ill patients of potentially prognostic significance. The pathogenesis of iHCa is likely multifactorial, including an increase in urinary fractional excretion of calcium (FECa). The aim of this preliminary study was to determine the incidence and the prognostic significance of iHCa during the Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) in dogs. Furthermore a potential correlation between low Ionized Calcium (iCa) concentration and FECa was investigated in this population. Methods: Dogs admitted to the University of Bologna Veterinary Teaching Hospital between December 2010 and July 2011 with clinical signs of SIRS (T< 38°C or > 39°C; HR > 120/min; RR > 20/min, WBC count > 16000 or < 6000 cells/μL) were selected. Cases were excluded if younger than 1 year of age, diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease or parathyroid glands diseases, or recently treated with drugs known to alter iCa concentration. Venous blood gas analysis, including iCa measurement, and urinalysis with FECa calculation were performed upon admission. Additional laboratory analysis included measurement of C-Reactive Protein (CRP), lactate, Antithrombin Activity (AT), proteinuria and albuminuria. Illness severity was calculated by the Acute Patient Physiologic and Laboratory Evaluation (APPLE) Fast Score. A group of healthy dogs (n=32) was included as negative control. Non parametric statistics (Mann Whitney U-Test and Spearman's Correlation Coefficient) and regression analysis were performed. Statistical significance was set at p

In dogs, persistent renal proteinuria with Urinary Protein to Creatinine ratio (UPC) ≥2.0 usually is due to glomerular renal disease. In humans, Nephrotic-Range Proteinuria (NRP) is defined as UPC ≥ 3.5, while Overt Albuminuria (OA) is defined as Urinary Albumin to Creatinine ratio (UAC) > 0.3. Analogous cut-off values are lacking for dogs. The aim of this study was to characterize clinical and clinicopathological features associated with 'glomerular proteinuria' in dogs, with particular regard to UAC.Retrospective analysis included a total of 338 dogs admitted to our Teaching Hospital, between January 2002 and September 2011, with glomerular proteinuria defined by UPC ≥2.0. Data collected were signalment, clinical and clinicopathological findings including Blood Pressure, CBC, serum Albumin (Alb), Total Protein, Cholesterol, Creatinine (Crea), Urea, Electrolytes, CRP, Total Iron, Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC), Antithrombin%, D-Dimers, Fibrinogen, and urinalysis comprehensive of UPC and UAC (immunoturbidimetric method). Data were analyzed with descriptive and non parametric statistics. A difference was considered significant for p 0.3). Hypoalbuminemia (Alb ≤2.5 g/dl) was detected in 57.2% of cases (Median 2.35; range 0.74-4.29). A significant negative correlation between UPC, UAC and Alb (r=-0.43 and r=-0.25, respectively), was detected. Crea concentration was above the reference interval in 53% of dogs (Median 1.85; range 0.47-22.07; RI 0.65- 1.35). Median Fibrinogen concentration was 5.28 g/l (range 0.64-10.63; RI 1.45-3.85), Median D-Dimers concentration was 0.26 μg/ml (range 0.01-8.84; RI

Background: Gene transfer using adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors has been successfully applied in the retina for the treatment of inherited retinal dystrophies. Recently, microRNAs have been exploited to fine-tune transgene expression improving therapeutic outcomes. Here we evaluated the ability of retinal-expressed microRNAs to restrict AAV-mediated transgene expression to specific retinal cell types that represent the main targets of common inherited blinding conditions. Methodology/Principal Findings: To this end, we generated AAV2/5 vectors expressing EGFP and containing four tandem copies of miR-124 or miR-204 complementary sequences in the 3′UTR of the transgene expression cassette. These vectors were administered subretinally to adult C57BL/6 mice and Large White pigs. Our results demonstrate that miR-124 and miR-204 target sequences can efficiently restrict AAV2/5-mediated transgene expression to retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors, respectively, in mice and pigs. Interestingly, transgene restriction was observed at low vector doses relevant to therapy. Conclusions: We conclude that microRNA-mediated regulation of transgene expression can be applied in the retina to either restrict to a specific cell type the robust expression obtained using ubiquitous promoters or to provide an additional layer of gene expression regulation when using cell-specific promoters. © 2011 Karali et al.

Recent success in clinical trials supports the use of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors for gene therapy of retinal diseases caused by defects in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). In contrast, evidence of the efficacy of AAV-mediated gene transfer to retinal photoreceptors, the major site of inherited retinal diseases, is less robust. In addition, although AAV-mediated RPE transduction appears efficient, independently of the serotype used and species treated, AAV-mediated photoreceptor gene transfer has not been systematically investigated thus so far in large animal models, which also may allow identifying relevant species-specific differences in AAV-mediated retinal transduction. In the present study, we used the porcine retina, which has a high cone/rod ratio. This feature allows to properly evaluate both cone and rod photoreceptors transduction and compare the transduction characteristics of AAV2/5 and 2/8, the two most efficient AAV vector serotypes for photoreceptor targeting. Here we show that AAV2/5 and 2/8 transduces both RPE and photoreceptors. AAV2/8 infects and transduces photoreceptor more efficiently than AAV2/5, similarly to what we have observed in the murine retina. The use of the photoreceptor-specific rhodopsin promoter restricts transgene expression to porcine rods and cones, and results in photoreceptor transduction levels similar to those obtained with the ubiquitous promoters tested. Finally, immunological, toxicological and biodistribution studies support the safety of AAV subretinal administration to the large porcine retina. The data presented here on AAV-mediated transduction of the cone-enriched porcine retina may affect the development of gene-based therapies for rare and common severe photoreceptor diseases. © 2011 Macmillan Publishers Limited All rights reserved. Recent success in clinical trials supports the use of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors for gene therapy of retinal diseases caused by defects in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). In contrast, evidence of the efficacy of AAV-mediated gene transfer to retinal photoreceptors, the major site of inherited retinal diseases, is less robust. In addition, although AAV-mediated RPE transduction appears efficient, independently of the serotype used and species treated, AAV-mediated photoreceptor gene transfer has not been systematically investigated thus so far in large animal models, which also may allow identifying relevant species-specific differences in AAV-mediated retinal transduction. In the present study, we used the porcine retina, which has a high cone/rod ratio. This feature allows to properly evaluate both cone and rod photoreceptors transduction and compare the transduction characteristics of AAV2/5 and 2/8, the two most efficient AAV vector serotypes for photoreceptor targeting. Here we show that AAV2/5 and 2/8 transduces both RPE and photoreceptors. AAV2/8 infects and transduces photoreceptor more efficiently than AAV2/5, similarly to what we have observed in the murine retina. The use of the photoreceptor-specific rhodopsin promoter restricts transgene expression to porcine rods and cones, and results in photoreceptor transduction levels similar to those obtained with the ubiquitous promoters tested. Finally, immunological, toxicological and biodistribution studies support the safety of AAV subretinal administration to the large porcine retina. The data presented here on AAV-mediated transduction of the cone-enriched porcine retina may affect the development of gene-based therapies for rare and common severe photoreceptor diseases. Gene Therapy (2011) 18, 637-645; doi:10.1038/gt.2011.3; published online 17 March 2011

In human medicine exercise-induced hemolysis and hemostatic alterations are commonly reported. The aetiology can be ascribed to various factors but oxidative stress seems to be the most important. Sports anemia could be a possible result of these changes during training or competition periods in humans. In equine medicine, targets of exercise-induced damage have been studied during exercise tests and occasionally during races. The oxidative response, with particular attention to blood rheology, plasma muscular enzymes (PMEs) and iron metabolism alterations, has been described. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinicopathological data associated to a racing competition (short-term, high-intensity) with a focus on hemostatic alterations and the potential erythrocyte damage. Thirty-four Standardbred racing horses (3 years old), participating at high speed races for a total distance of 1660 m in about 2 minutes, were studied. Three different competitions were evaluated and venous blood samples were collected immediately before the race, and within 30 minutes by the end of competition. CBC, Acute Phase Proteins, biochemical and hemostatic parameters including Uric Acid (UA), Haptoglobin (Hp), Fibrinogen (Fib) and D-Dimer (DD), were evaluated. DD and Hp were assayed by immuno-turbidimetric methods. The statistical analyses were carried out using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated measurements to compare variables pre- and post-competition. The post exercise data were corrected using an estimation of the plasma volume contraction according to the individual Albumin (Alb) concentration increase. A significant plasma volume reduction after the race was found (mean Alb +6.86%, p

Introduzione. Il Corynebacterium urealyticum è un batterio multiresistente, Gram-positivo, ureasi-produttore, responsabile di una rara forma di infezione delle vie urinarie (Urinary Tract Infecion, UTI) nel cane e nel gatto. Esistono diversi fattori di rischio che possono predisporre all’infezione quali immunodepressione, UTI precedenti, cateterismo urinario, ospedalizzazione per lunghi periodi e terapie antibiotiche. Il C. urealyticum può causare una UTI caratterizzata da alcalinizzazione delle urine e urolitiasi da struvite e fosfato di calcio fino alla formazione di placche vescicali (cosiddetta “cistite incrostata”). Descrizione del caso. Questo studio descrive una UTI da C. urealyticum in due cani: un Lagotto Romagnolo, femmina sterilizzata di 12 anni (caso 1) e un Pastore Tedesco, maschio di 14 anni (caso 2). I due cani avevano in comune un’anamnesi con problemi neurologici al rachide, precedenti UTI trattate con terapia antibiotica, un periodo lungo di ospedalizzazione e cateterismo urinario permanente. I segni clinici principali erano riferibili a patologie delle vie urinarie inferiori. Nel caso 1, l’analisi delle urine ha mostrato ematuria macroscopica, peso specifico 1056, pH 8,5, proteinuria (100 mg/dl) ed eritruria (250 eritrociti/ μl). Il sedimento era caratterizzato da leucocituria, eritruria, marcata cristalluria di struvite ed una grave batteriuria con bastoncelli Gram-positivi. I reperti urinari nel caso 2 erano ematuria macroscopica, peso specifico 1026, pH 7.0, proteinuria (30 mg/dl) ed eritruria (250 eritrociti/μl). Il sedimento urinario presentava moderata eritruria e leucocituria con numerosi bastoncelli Gram-positivi. L’esame batteriologico con antibiogramma ha permesso di isolare il C. urealyticum, sensibile ad antibatterici glicopeptidici in entrambi i casi. È stata impostata una terapia con teicoplanina (6 mg/Kg q24h) per 3 settimane. Nel caso 1, i segni clinici sono progressivamente migliorati, tuttavia dopo 14 giorni dall’inizio della terapia l’esame colturale ha evidenziato una sovrainfezione da Escherichia Coli che è stata trattata con Imipenem per 4 settimane. Nel corso dei due mesi di follow-up gli esami colturali sono risultati negativi e ad oggi il cane è clinicamente asintomatico. Nel caso 2 i segni clinici non si sono mai risolti completamente nonostante l’esito negativo del batteriologico e dopo la sospensione della terapia antibatterica il cane ha presentato una recidiva con ostruzione delle vie urinarie inferiori. L’ecografia addominale ha evidenziato un ispessimento della parete vescicale, presenza di strutture iperecogene all’interno del lume e idronefrosi bilaterale associata a dilatazione ureterale. Il cateterismo ha permesso di rimuovere un “plug” localizzato a livello di uretra peniena e di risolvere l’ostruzione; tuttavia le condizioni cliniche del soggetto sono progressivamente peggiorate a causa di una pielonefrite e conseguente sepsi. Dopo pochi giorni il cane è stato sottoposto ad eutanasia. Conclusioni. I due casi descritti presentano numerose analogie per ciò che riguarda i fattori predisponenti all’infezione, i segni clinici e clinico-patologici che si verificano in corso di infezione da C. urealyticum, in accordo con la Letteratura consultata. A conoscenza degli autori, nel cane non è stata mai descritta una ostruzione delle vie urinarie inferiori in corso di infezione da C. urealyticum come è avvenuto nel caso 2. In Medicina Umana, tale patologia è considerata una infezione nosocomiale ed in questo studio la peculiarità è data dal fatto che i due cani sono stati ospedalizzati contemporaneamente, il che potrebbe far ipotizzare una possibile trasmissione del patogeno per via indiretta. La presenza di questo microrganismo deve essere sospettata in tutti i casi in cui sia presente una alcalinizzazione delle urine con cristalluria da struvite e segni clinici di UTI. Una diagnosi precoce associata ad un trattamento antibatterico mirato...

In human sport medicine, clinicopathological abnormalities are frequently detected in response to different training periods or competitions. Similar findings are described in equine medicine especially for plasmatic muscular enzymes (PMEs), oxidative stress markers and erythrocyte alterations, however their significance related to the performance is still unclear. The aim of this study was to compare clinicopathological data obtained from horses entered at 2 different high speed – short term real competitions. The first group (G1) included 34 Standardbred racing horses performing a trotting race for a total distance of 1660 m in about 2 minutes. The second group (G2) comprised 10 Thoroughbred horses involved in a galloping race, consisting in repetitive tracks of 154 m each in about 12 seconds. Blood samples were obtained before and after the races. CBC, biochemical and haemostatic parameters including PMEs (Creatine Kinase – CK; Lactate Dehydrogenase – LDH; Aspartate Transaminase – AST) Uric Acid (UA), Haptoglobin (Hp), Fibrinogen (Fib) and D-Dimer (DD), were evaluated. DD and Hp were assayed with immuno-turbidimetric methods. The post exercise data were corrected using an estimation of the plasma volume contraction according to the individual Albumin (Alb) concentration increment. The variation of each parameter was compared within- and between-races. The statistical analyses were carried out using non parametric tests for data within- and between-groups. A difference was considered significant at p

Objective – To perform a qualitative evaluation of procalcitonin gene (CALCA) expression in a tissue-specific manner in dogs with signs of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Design – Observational study. Setting – University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Animals – Nine clinical cases and 5 research dogs. Interventions – None. Measurements and Main Results – Fresh tissue samples (thyroid, lung, liver, spleen) from 9 dogs that died with a diagnosis of parvoviral infection or SIRS were collected and immediately stored at –801C. Diagnosis of parvoviral infection was based on clinical signs, positive fecal antigen test, and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Clinical diagnosis of SIRS was based on the clinical criteria reported in veterinary literature. Necropsy was performed on all subjects in the study. Furthermore, thyroid, lung, liver, spleen were collected from 5 normal research dogs immediately postmortem for testing. The 9 dogs with a clinical diagnosis of SIRS died from either parvovirus (n55), bacterial sepsis (n53), or neoplasia (n51). CALCAwas amplified by PCR in the following samples: thyroid (9/9), spleen (6/9), lung (4/9), liver (3/9). Only thyroid expressed CALCA in the 5 normal dogs. Conclusions – In SIRS, extrathyroidal transcription of CALCA was documented. Quantitative analysis (realtime polymerase chain reaction) in a wider population of SIRS and normal dogs will provide essential information about the extent and source of extrathyroidal expression of canine CALCA induced by septic and nonseptic systemic inflammation.

Clinical presentation of canine parvovirus typically involves expression of a Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS). The aim of this retrospective study was to characterize SIRS by measuring a panel of APPs [C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Haptoglobin (Hp), Transferrin (TIBC), Ferritin (FT), Fibrinogen (Fib), Albumin (Alb)] and other indirect biomarkers of flogosis [Total Iron (Fe), Antithrombin (AT), D-Dimers (D-D)] in dogs affected by parvovirus. Dogs with a confirmed diagnosis of parvovirus admitted at the University of Bologna - Veterinary Teaching Hospital (April 2006 - December 2009) were included. Upon admission, a clinical score (0-12), previously applied to dogs with parvovirus, was calculated and blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture. Analytes were assayed on serum or plasma using specific methods on an automated chemistry analyzer. Blood samples from 28 healthy dogs (H) were also available as controls. A group of 58 dogs with parvovirus (P) meeting SIRS criteria, 33 males and 25 females, median age 2 months (range 1.5-48), was included: 49 survivors (Ps) and 9 nonsurvivors (Pn). Results of CRP, Hp, TIBC, F, Fib, Alb, TI and AT were all significantly different from H indicating the presence of an Acute Phase Response in P. Fib, Alb, Total Protein (TP), TIBC, AT values and red blood cells count were significantly lower, while heart rate and FT values were significantly higher in Pn than in Ps (p

Impact of Heat Stress, such as high temperature and humidity, on the immune system is reported in animals. The pivotal role of cytokines in modulating the immune response is well established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum levels of 4 major cytokines (IL-4, IFN-, TNF-, IL-6) in 21 Holstein stabled calves (age, 2-16 months) prior to and 4 days after exposure to a heat stress condition. Furthermore, clinicopathological variables potentially influenced by the latter condition, such as white blood cells count (WBC), plasma muscular enzymes (AST, LDH, CK), serum glucose and β-hydroxybutyrate, were evaluated as well. A condition of heat stress was defined by a mean daily value of Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) higher than 74 for 3 consecutive days. Serum cytokines concentrations were determined using a multiplex sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based on chemioluminescent detection of the analytes (SearchLight Multiplex Immunoassay Kits, Aushon Biosystem). Following one week of normal climatic parameters (mean daily THI  68), a Heat Stress condition (mean daily THI = 76) was detected for 4 days in our population. In response to Heat Wave, serum concentrations of IL-4 significantly increased (P

The evaluation of iron metabolism in course of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is justified by the still growing number of studies in humans. Similar reports in veterinary patients are rare or completely missing. The aim of this study was the evaluation of the Iron Status in canine patients affected by CKD, and the assessment of a potential correlation between iron homeostasis, progression of the CKD, and presence of an acute phase response (APR). The medical records of dogs, referred for a nephrological evaluation from January 2007 to December 2009, were analyzed. Fortysix dogs with CKD were selected and compared with healthy dogs (n 5 28). Considering a cut-off hematocrit value (HCT) of 35%, CKD dogs were afterwards divided in 2 groups defined as ‘‘anemic’’ and ‘‘non-anemic’’. Based on the International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) guidelines, CKD dogs were further divided in stage II, III and IV. Iron Status was assessed by the evaluation of Total Iron, Ferritin, Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC), TIBC-saturation %, and haematological parameters together with an acute phase proteins profile comprehensive of C-reactive Protein (CRP), Haptoglobin (Hp), and Albumin (Alb). CRP, Hp and Ferritin were measured using immunoturbidimetric methods. The Urinary Protein to Creatinine ratio (UPC) was also evaluated. Iron deficiency in the CKD dogs was defined by the presence of at least one of the following: hypoferremia, hypoferritinemia, increased TIBC, and decreased TIBC-saturation. Thus a prevalence of iron deficiency of 43% (20/46) was achieved. The concomitant presence of the 4 cited abnormalities was detected in the 2% of dogs (1/46). Considering hypoferritinemia as a more specific estimation of iron deficiency, the prevalence gets to 11% (5/46). These findings suggest that iron abnormalities are common in CKD patients. A concurrent APR was detected in 36/46 dogs, potentially affecting the Iron Status. Indeed, Ferritin concentrations were higher in the CKD dogs than in healthy ones, while Total Iron and TIBC-saturation% were lower. In our population, ‘‘anemic’’dogs presented lower Total Iron and negative APP concentrations compared to the ‘‘nonanemic’’ ones, withUPC not different between groups. No significant differences in the iron profile were detected between IRIS stages. Further studies in a wider population of dogs with CKD, evaluating the prognostic role of iron profile and its potential impact on treatment strategies, are warranted.

Canine parvovirus is a severe viral infection commonly affecting puppies. Clinical presentation typically involves expression of a Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS). Acute phase proteins (APPs) are reliable circulating biomarkers of inflammation and infection in humans and their potential use in dogs is supported by former studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of a panel of APPs, comprehensive of C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Haptoglobin (Hp), Transferrin (TIBC), Fibrinogen (Fib), Albumin (Alb), in dogs affected by parvovirus. Dogs with a confirmed diagnosis of parvovirus admitted at the University of Bologna - Veterinary Teaching Hospital (April 2006 - December 2008) were included. Upon admission blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture. At least one aliquot of serum and plasma citrate were stored at - 80º C upon analysis. Blood samples from 8 healthy puppies (N) and 7 puppies with different diseases meeting SIRS criteria (S) were also available as controls. APPs were assayed on serum or plasma using specific methods on an automated chemistry analyzer. Results were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test and linear regression analysis. A group of 18 dogs with parvovirus (P), 9 males and 9 females, median age 2 months (range 1.5-25), median weight 3.5 kg (1.5-20) was preliminarily selected: 9 survivors (Ps) and 9 nonsurvivors (Pn). Mean hospitalization was 10 days for Ps and 4.8 days for Pn. APPs concentrations in P (n=18) were all significantly different from normal ones found in N (n=8) and showed the following median values: CRP 7.4 mg/dl (range 0.7-23.5), Hp 317 mg/dl (117-374), TIBC 216 μg/dl (140-348), Fib 3.8 g/l (1.9-6.5, n=16), Alb 1.8 g/dl (0.9-2.7). Median APPs concentrations in S (n=7) were: CRP 5.6 mg/dl (range 3.7-16.1), Hp 212 mg/dl (68-298), TIBC 411 μg/dl (345-527), Fib 2.9 g/l (2.4-3.6, n=4), Alb 2.8 g/dl (2.3-2.9). Statistically significant differences between P and S were found for Hp, TIBC and Alb (p

Objective Most strategies against intimal hyperplasia developed in several preclinical models failed in terms of clinical application, often due to a discrepancy between animal and human disease. The aim of this study was to setup for the first time a porcine vascular injury model with mild hypercholesterolemia able to significantly increase the degree of stenosis resembling human settings and investigate the pathogenetic role of hypercholesterolemia on protective genes and inflammatory response affecting matrix deposition and cell proliferation. Methods Pigs were fed with standard (SD, n = 7) or high-cholesterol diet (HCD, n = 7) for 120 days. A balloon angioplasty injury was induced in carotid arteries. Results Hypercholesterolemia induced a mild significant increase of total and LDL cholesterolemia. HCD significantly increased the degree of stenosis (48 ± 3% vs. 13 ± 4%, p = 0.001), with induction of cell proliferation, matrix deposition, TGF-β1/TGFβRII and MMP2 expression and reduction of collagen. The reduced expression of the protective gene heme oxygenase-1 and inducible-nitric oxide synthase in HCD was associated to a systemic inflammation with a significant increase in circulating leukocytes, serum IFN-γ and TNF-α and a local inflammatory response with an increase of CD3-positive cell infiltrates. There was a significant correlation between CD3 infiltrates and the degree of stenosis. Conclusion We developed for the first time a porcine vascular injury model with mild hypercholesterolemia able to significantly increase the degree of stenosis and showed the pathogenetic role of hypercholesterolemia on intimal hyperplasia. New therapeutical strategies to prevent restenosis can be tested in this preclinical hypercholesterolemic model resembling human disease.

PURPOSE. To evaluate the suitability of gene delivery-based approaches as potential treatment of Leber Congenital Amaurosis 4 (LCA4) due to AIPL1 mutations. METHODS. Genomic DNA from patients was analyzed using a microarray chip and direct sequencing. A detailed clinical evaluation including fundus autofluorescence (FAF) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) was performed in patients with AIPL1 mutations. Aipl1 null mice and porcine eyes were subretinally injected with adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors harboring the human AIPL1 coding sequence. RESULTS. We identified ten LCA4 patients with mutations in AIPL1. The p.W278X sequence variation was the one most frequently found. Clinical assessment revealed common features including diffuse retinal dystrophies and maculopathy. However, OCT showed partially retained photoreceptors in extra-macular regions at all ages. The FAF was elicitable at the posterior pole and absent in the fovea. AAV-mediated gene transfer in Aipl1 -/- mice was associated with restoration of AIPL1 and βPDE expression in photoreceptors and protection from degeneration. Administration of a clinically relevant dose of AAV2/8-AIPL1 to the pre-clinical large porcine retina resulted in high level of AIPL1 photoreceptor expression in the absence of toxicity. CONCLUSIONS. Using advanced imaging diagnostics we showed that maculopathy is a main feature of LCA4. We identified retinal areas at the posterior pole with surviving photoreceptors present even in adult LCA4 patients, which could be the target of gene therapy. The possible use of gene therapy for LCA4 is additionally supported by the protection from photoreceptor degeneration observed in Aipl 1-/- mice and by the high levels of photoreceptor transduction in the absence of toxicity observed following AAV2/8 delivery to the large porcine retina. PMID: 21474771 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]