Phaidra - University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna
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Clinical findings, treatment, and outcomes in cats with naturally occurring hypoadrenocorticism: 41 cases
No full textHypoadrenocorticism in cats is uncommonly reported. Most reports consist of cats with hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, or both.To describe clinical findings, treatment response, and outcome in cats diagnosed with hypoadrenocorticism, including cats with abnormal and normal serum sodium and potassium concentrations.Forty-one cats with hypoadrenocorticism; 36 with and 5 without abnormal serum sodium and potassium concentrations.Multicenter retrospective observational study. Data for the entire cohort were assessed using descriptive statistics and differences between cats with and without abnormal serum sodium and potassium concentrations were evaluated.Median age was 5.7?years (range, 0.2-13.8). Twenty-three (56%) cats were male and 18 (44%) were female. Cats with hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, or both were less likely to have a history of vomiting (P?=?.01) but more likely to be hypothermic (P?=?.03), dehydrated (P?=?.04) or weak (P?=?.04) on examination, compared with nonhyponatremic and nonhyperkalemic cats. Frequency of hypercalcemia was 31.7%. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) was diagnosed in 4/7 cats tested; all 4 had concurrent cobalamin deficiency. Thirty-five (85.4%) cats survived to discharge. In 2 cats, hypoadrenocorticism occurred secondary to lymphoma. Median survival time (MST) for all-cause mortality was 2035?days (95% confidence interval [CI], 294-4380?days); MST for disease-specific mortality was not reached.Approximately one-third of cats with hypoadrenocorticism had hypercalcemia. In some cases, hyponatremia and hyperkalemia were not observed. Cats with nonneoplastic associated hypoadrenocorticism that survive initial hospitalization can have a favorable long-term prognosis. Testing for EPI may be warranted in cats with hypoadrenocorticism
The anti-diabetic PPARy agonist Pioglitazone inhibits cell proliferation and induces metabolic reprogramming in prostate cancer
No full textProstate cancer (PCa) and Type 2 diabetes (T2D) often co-occur, yet their relationship remains elusive. While some studies suggest that T2D lowers PCa risk, others report conflicting data. This study investigates the effects of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonists Bezafibrate, Tesaglitazar, and Pioglitazone on PCa tumorigenesis. Analysis of patient datasets revealed that high PPARG expression correlates with advanced PCa and poor survival. The PPAR? agonists Pioglitazone and Tesaglitazar notably reduced cell proliferation and PPAR? protein levels in primary and metastatic PCa-derived cells. Proteomic analysis identified intrinsic differences in mTORC1 and mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO) pathways between primary and metastatic PCa cells, which were further disrupted by Tesaglitazar and Pioglitazone. Moreover, metabolomics, Seahorse Assay-based metabolic profiling, and radiotracer uptake assays revealed that Pioglitazone shifted primary PCa cells\u27 metabolism towards glycolysis and increased FAO in metastatic cells, reducing mitochondrial ATP production. Furthermore, Pioglitazone suppressed cell migration in primary and metastatic PCa cells and induced the epithelial marker E-Cadherin in primary PCa cells. In vivo, Pioglitazone reduced tumor growth in a metastatic PC3 xenograft model, increased phosho AMPK? and decreased phospho mTOR levels. In addition, diabetic PCa patients treated with PPAR agonists post-radical prostatectomy implied no biochemical recurrence over five to ten years compared to non-diabetic PCa patients. Our findings suggest that Pioglitazone reduces PCa cell proliferation and induces metabolic and epithelial changes, highlighting the potential of repurposing metabolic drugs for PCa therapy
Investigating the interplay of stressors and health in horses through fecal cortisol metabolite analysis
No full textHorses are highly sensitive to stress, which can affect their wellbeing and lead to various health issues. Effective and objective stress assessment is therefore crucial for improving their care and management. The production of the glucocorticoid cortisol is increased in response to stressful stimuli and its metabolites can be measured non-invasively in feces. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the impact of different environmental and physiological stressors on fecal cortisol metabolite (FCM) concentrations in horses, with a particular focus on the relationship between stress, health, and welfare. We hypothesized that increased FCM levels may be indicative of disease and thus improve early detection and subsequent intervention.Fresh fecal samples of N = 41 horses (20 geldings and 21 mares) from the same herd were collected once weekly for 1 year. Horses had been housed in the same stable for at least a month and were accustomed to the habitat, daily routine, and social groups. Environmental conditions, health data, and potentially stressful events were recorded. Fecal concentrations of 11,17-dioxoandrostanes were measured via 11-oxoetiocholanolone enzyme immunoassay.We showed stable baseline FCM concentrations of 6.3 ng/g feces (range 0.6-28.1 ng/g feces). During the summer months, median FCM concentrations increased significantly (p< 0.05; One Way RM ANOVA), and this increase correlated with higher ambient temperatures (p< 0.0001, adjr2 = 0.669, Pearson Product Moment correlation). Additionally, other factors such as breed, coat color, and housing conditions influenced the FCM concentrations. Stressful events, such as riding exams and some painful conditions, also resulted in elevated FCM levels, although the magnitude of these responses varied across individual horses. However, not all diseases were associated with increased FCMs.Our findings emphasize the complexity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in horses, suggesting that while high FCM levels can indicate stress, they may not be reliable biomarkers for early disease detection. Particularly in the light of climate change, the impact of heat stress in the summer months should not be neglected and measures to improve the housing conditions accordingly should become an essential part of equine health management
Differential effects of synbiotic delivery route (Feed, water, combined) in broilers challenged with Salmonella Infantis
No full textSalmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Infantis (S. Infantis) presents a persistent and multi-drug-resistant threat to poultry production, highlighting the need for effective control strategies. This study evaluated the impact of a S. Infantis infection in broiler chickens across various parameters, including organ colonization, gut microbiota, and immune function. We also assessed the mitigation potential of a synbiotic, multispecies feed additive, administered via three routes applicable for the field: feed only, drinking water only, and a combination of both. Our results demonstrated that the combined administration route yielded notably positive effects on several parameters, followed by the drinking-water only administration. This approach resulted in significant improvements in gut microbiota health, characterized by increased levels of beneficial microbes such as Lactobacillus, Ligilactobacillus, and Butyricicoccus, and a decrease in potentially harmful genera from the Proteobacteria phylum. Reduction of S. Infantis load was observed in caecum, ileum, and spleen over time albeit shedding was not influenced. The drinking water-only administration showed a significant reduction of S. Infantis colonization in the caecum on the last sampling day. Immune response analysis indicated no significant differences in serum antibody levels between control and treatment groups. These findings underscore the impact of both combined and drinking water-only synbiotic, multispecies feed additive administration on the gut microbiota and a possible route for reducing S. Infantis in poultry production. The obtained data provide valuable guidance for optimizing synbiotic use in commercial poultry management, enabling enhanced pathogen control and improved gut health
Roadmap to Dystocia Management-Guiding Obstetric Interventions in Cattle
No full textDystocia, or difficult labor, is a common complication during parturition in cattle that poses substantial risks to both dam and fetus. When the incidence is high on a farm level, it is a significant economic burden for dairy and beef enterprises. This review paper presents a comprehensive roadmap strategy to enhance decision-making in the management of dystocia in cows. The strategy encompasses early recognition and assessment, utilization of advanced diagnostic tools, and a range of medical and surgical interventions tailored to specific maternal and fetal causes of dystocia. The roadmap also integrates preventive measures to reduce the incidence of dystocia through genetic selection and optimized nutrition. By addressing the key challenges in dystocia management, such as resource constraints, timely intervention, and the need for continuous education, this strategy aims to improve health outcomes for cows and calves and reduce economic losses. Implementing this structured approach can facilitate better preparedness, efficient resource utilization, and improved overall livestock management, thereby promoting the sustainability and productivity of the cattle industry and addressing animal welfare aspects
Influence of dietary protein levels on nano-encapsulated Yucca schidigera extract and its effects on in vitro ruminal greenhouse gas production and fermentation dynamics
No full textThe influence of nano-encapsulated Yucca schidigera extract (YSE) on total gas (GP), ruminal methane (CH4), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) production, and fermentation activities of diets based on two different protein levels were investigated. A completely randomized experimental design with a factorial arrangement (2 × 4 × 4) with three replications was used. Factor 1 was the dietary protein levels (14%and 18%), factor 2 was the types of extracts used (TE; negative control (without extract), positive control (empty chitosan nano-capsules), Y. schidigera extract nano-capsules, and crude Y. schidigera extract), and factor 3 the doses of each type of extract (ED; 0-, 0.25-, 0.5-, and 1.0- mL extract/g DM). Nano-chitosan reduced the GP production with a higher protein level by 24.9% after 48 h while the crude extract elevated it. At both crude protein levels, the interaction of crude extract at an ED of 0.25 mL extract/g DM generated a higher volume of CH4 at 6 h (p = 0.001 and 0.001 respectively) compared to the volume generated by the negative control. The 0.25 mL extract/g DM extract for both the crude extract and nano-extract elicited higher and lower CO production at 6 h (p < 0.0001), respectively. Nano-chitosan at 0.25 mL extract/g DM resulted in less H2S produced at 6 h than when crude extract was used at the same dose and a higher protein level (p = 0.027). The ED did not significantly affect any of the parameters under consideration as used under lower protein levels. However, TE affected pH and dry matter degradability (p < 0.0001) while the interaction of both TE and ED impacted both CH4:SCFA and CH4:ME (p = 0.045) with higher and lower values obtained for nano-chitosan and the negative control, respectively. In conclusion, nano-chitosan at a higher protein level proved its antimicrobial property, and although the production of CO increased at 14% protein, in vitro fermentation indicated its ability to minimize the production of GP, methane and hydrogen sulphide in the rumen, and to boost the degradability of DM and methane conversion efficiency.
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Impact of Aging and Visual Input on Postural Stability in Dogs: Insights from Center-of-Pressure Analysis
No full textThis study investigates the impact of visual input and aging on postural stability (PS) in dogs by analyzing center-of-pressure (COP) parameters during static posturography under sighted (EO) and blindfolded (EC) conditions. Twenty adult (75% of fractional lifespan) dogs, free from orthopedic, neurological, or visual impairments, were assessed using a pressure measurement plate. While no significant differences were found between adult and senior dogs under standard EO conditions, blindfolding revealed age-related disparities. Senior dogs exhibited significantly higher craniocaudal displacement and support surface values compared to adult dogs, indicating a greater reliance on visual input for sagittal stability. Conversely, adult dogs exhibited a reduction in postural sway during EC conditions, indicating an adaptive shift toward greater reliance on somatosensory input. These findings highlight diminished sensory integration and adaptability in senior dogs, correlating with aging-related declines in proprioception and sensory processing. This research underscores the critical role of vision in canine PS, particularly in older individuals, and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions, such as balance training, to enhance sensory integration and mitigate fall risk in aging dogs. Future studies should explore dynamic and multimodal challenges to further elucidate compensatory mechanisms
Lateral Tarsorrhaphy and Fixation on the Orbital Ligament to Correct Macroblepharon in Dogs: 77 Palpebral Fissures
No full textTo describe a surgical method for correcting lower lid entropion, lateral canthal entropion, and macroblepharon.Lid margins were incised at a 45° angle, and lateral lid margins and a rhomboid shaped piece of skin were resected based on the degree of macroblepharon. Subcutaneous tissue was sutured with absorbable sutures and anchored to the orbital ligament with a non-absorbable suture to maintain lateral canthal position. A new lateral canthus was formed using a "figure of eight" technique with absorbable sutures, and the skin was closed with simple interrupted sutures. Complications were categorized as minor (wound infections, delayed healing) or major (orbital ligament detachment).Lateral tarsorrhaphy with orbital ligament fixation was performed on 77 palpebral fissures (PF) in 39 dogs, with English Cocker Spaniels and Great Danes being the most affected breeds. Most dogs were male (72%) with a median age of 23?months; 69% were under 50?months. Of the PF treated, 57 (74%) had no complications, 11 (14%) had minor complications, and 9 (12%) had major complications, including six cases of ruptured orbital ligament fixation and one case of unilateral entropion recurrence. One dog was euthanized due to severe complications from auto-mutilation and lack of compliance.This surgical method effectively corrects diamond-shaped eyes, although complications can occur, especially in male dogs with excessive facial skin
Establishing Reference Genes for Accurate Gene Expression Profiling in Toxigenic Bacillus cereus
No full textBacillus cereus is a Gram-positive pathogen associated with foodborne illnesses and severe non-gastrointestinal infections. Robust tools for accurate gene transcription analysis are essential for studying toxin gene expression dynamics and deciphering the complex regulatory networks orchestrating the expression of toxin and virulence factors. This study aimed to identify reliable reference genes for normalizing reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) data in toxigenic B. cereus. An emetic and an enteropathogenic strain were used as model organisms to establish a suitable reference gene set to monitor the dynamics of toxin gene transcription. Ten candidate reference genes were evaluated for their expression stability using geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper and the ?Cq method, with the final rankings integrated via RefFinder. Among the tested genes, rho, rpoD and recA were identified as the most stable expressed reference genes across all tested conditions. As shown in this proof-of-principle study, the established reference gene set provides a suitable tool to investigate the influence of extrinsic and intrinsic factors on toxin gene transcription. In conclusion, our newly established reference gene set provides a robust basis for studying toxin gene expression in B. cereus and contributes to a better understanding of its pathogenicity and potential strategies to mitigate its harmful effects
Intraspecific variability within Karlodinium armiger (Dinophyceae) on a toxicological and metabolomic level
No full textThe species Karlodinium armiger occasionally co-occurs with Karlodinium veneficum during harmful algal blooms. The only toxin of this species described so far is karmitoxin, a highly ichthyotoxic compound very similar to the karlotoxins produced by K. veneficum. However, information on K. armiger is limited and based on a single Mediterranean strain (K-0668), with few studies investigating its toxicity. Given the high intraspecific variability known in K. veneficum, it was a significant achievement when two additional strains of K. armiger (MD-D6 and MD-D7) were isolated from the Labrador Sea in 2017, enabling comparative studies within this species. The toxicity of these three strains was assessed using the fish gill cell line RTgill-W1 and the cryptophyte Rhodomonas salina. An untargeted metabolomics approach using high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry, along with a computational workflow, provided insights into the metabolomic differences between the strains. Despite being cultivated under identical conditions, the metabolomic profiles and toxicological properties were distinct, even between MD-D6 and MD-D7, which were isolated from the same water sample. While MD-D7 did not exhibit significant toxicity, MD-D6 showed high toxicity and lytic potential, similar to K-0668. Interestingly, karmitoxin was only detected in K-0668, and neither karlotoxins nor any known analogs were detected in any strain. Within this comprehensive workflow, some molecules were found in MD-D6 that share the same chemical space as karmitoxin, making them interesting targets for further research. In conclusion, this study evaluated the toxicological and metabolic variability in three different strains of K. armiger and identified some putative toxin candidates in MD-D6