Delay of definitive care in cats and dogs with gastrointestinal foreign body obstruction following antiemetic administration: 537 cases (2012-2020)

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether administration of antiemetic medication to dogs and cats with gastrointestinal foreign body obstruction (GIFBO) delays time to definitive care (surgery or endoscopy) and increases the risk of complications.

DESIGN

Retrospective study (January 2012-July 2020).

SETTING

Private referral center.

ANIMALS

Five hundred and thirty-seven (440 dogs and 97 cats).

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Medical records of dogs and cats with GIFBO were reviewed for antiemetic administration at the onset of clinical signs, time from onset of clinical signs to first intervention and definitive care, GIFBO-related complications, and length of hospitalization. Antiemetics were prescribed for 200 of 537 patients (158 dogs, 42 cats). Antiemetic administration was associated with an increased time between the onset of clinical signs and definitive care (3.2 days [95% confidence interval, CI, 2.8-3.5] vs. 1.6 days [95% CI, 1.4-2.0]; P < 0.001) but not with GIFBO-associated complications (P = 0.45). Antiemetic administration was associated with an increased length of hospitalization (1.6 days [95% CI, 1.4-1.7] vs. 1.1 days [95% CI, 1.1-1.2]; P < 0.001). A longer duration of clinical signs prior to intervention was associated with GIFBO-related complications (P < 0.001) regardless of antiemetic administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Antiemetic administration in patients with GIFBO was associated with increased time to definitive care and length of hospitalization but not GIFBO-associated complications. Antiemetics are not inherently contraindicated in patients for whom GIFBO is a differential, but clients should be counseled to monitor for progression of clinical signs and follow-up accordingly.

Traumatic Brain Injury-A Review of Intravenous Fluid Therapy

This manuscript will review intravenous fluid therapy in traumatic brain injury. Both human and animal literature will be included. Basic treatment recommendations will also be discussed.

Crystalloid and Colloid Compositions and Their Impact

This manuscript will review crystalloid (hypo-, iso-, and hyper-tonic) and colloid (synthetic and natural) fluids that are available for intravenous administration with a focus on their electrolyte, acid-base, colligative, and rheological effects as they relate to each solution's efficacy and safety. The goal is for the reader to better understand the differences between each fluid and the influence on plasma composition, key organ systems, and their implications when used therapeutically in animals with critical illness.

Effect of prazosin on feline recurrent urethral obstruction

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine if male cats treated with 7 days of prazosin following relief of urethral obstruction (UO) experienced decreased rates of recurrent urethral obstruction (rUO) within 30 days vs those treated with 7 days of placebo.

METHODS

All castrated male cats presenting for the first time with UO from May 2014 to August 2017 were eligible for enrollment. Exclusion criteria included the administration of medications or passage of a urinary catheter prior to referral, the presence of heart disease or hypertension requiring medication, prior treatment with glucocorticoids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, prazosin or phenoxybenzamine, or radiographic identification of cystoliths. Cats were treated with standardized anesthetic and analgesic protocols, standardized indwelling urinary catheter management, and were hospitalized for care. A random numbers table was generated prior to study initiation and cats were randomized to receive either prazosin (0.5 mg PO q12h for 7 days) or placebo in a blinded fashion. A 30-day follow-up with owners via telephone was performed to identify the rate of rUO. Cats that did not receive the full course of study medication were removed from the analysis. The study was unblinded at the end of data collection.

RESULTS

Eighty cats were enrolled and 65 cats completed the study; 12 were excluded because they did not receive the study medication. Sixteen of 65 cats experienced rUO (25%). Of the 16 cats experiencing rUO, five received placebo (n = 5/28 [18%]) and 11 received prazosin (n = 11/37 [30%]). Ten of the cats that experienced rUO reblocked while still hospitalized. There was no significant difference in frequency of rUO in cats treated with prazosin vs placebo (P = 0.27).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Prazosin administered at 0.5 mg PO q12h did not decrease the rate of rUO in this population of obstructed male cats vs placebo. These results further support evidence suggesting that prazosin may not be beneficial in prevention of feline rUO.

Percent recovery of insulin from two different concentrations (3 U/250 mL and 45 U/250 mL) of regular insulin solutions prepared for continuous rate infusion

OBJECTIVE

To compare the percent recovery of regular insulin prepared for administration as a continuous rate infusion (CRI) using 2 different concentrations, 3 and 45 U in 250 mL 0.9% saline.

DESIGN

In vitro experiment SETTING: Privately-owned emergency and referral teaching hospital.

ANIMALS

None INTERVENTION: Commercial 250 mL 0.9% sodium chloride IV fluid bags were injected with either 3 U (solution bag A) or 45 U (solution bag B) of regular insulin. The insulin concentration was measured in each bag. A fluid administration and extension set were connected to each bag and 50 mL was drained through the IV tubing. The insulin concentration was then measured from samples post washout.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Comparison of the concentration of insulin injected into the bag and concentration of insulin in the bag showed that there was a 29.7 and 37.3% recovery of insulin from solution bag A and solution bag B, respectively. Comparison of the concentration of insulin injected into the bag and concentration of insulin in the post 50-mL washout samples showed that there was an 11.9 and 30.6% recovery of insulin from bags A and B, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Substantially more insulin was available after a 50-mL washout from solution bag B compared to solution bag A. Insulin binding to the IV bag and fluid administration set is likely the cause of this difference.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Patients receiving lower concentrations of insulin as a CRI, such as might be prescribed for cats and small dogs may require longer time for resolution of hyperglycemia and ketonemia.

Preliminary evaluation of the efficacy of intravenous magnesium sulfate for the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias in 16 dogs

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of IV magnesium sulfate in decreasing the number of ventricular ectopic beats or convert ventricular tachyarrhythmia to sinus rhythm in dogs.

DESIGN

Prospective, observational feasibility study.

SETTING

Private referral center.

ANIMALS

Sixteen client-owned dogs exhibiting 1 or more of the following: (1) sustained or paroxysmal ventricular tachycardia (heart rate > 180/min), (2) single or multiform ventricular complexes at > 60 ectopies/min.

INTERVENTIONS

Pretreatment (T1) blood creatinine and electrolyte concentrations were measured. A 60-second lead II ECG strip and systolic arterial blood pressure (SABP) were recorded. Magnesium sulfate 0.1 mmol/kg (0.2 mEq/kg) was administered IV over 5 minutes. Five minutes after completion of the magnesium sulfate injection (T2), electrolyte concentrations were measured again. A second 60-second lead II ECG strip and SABP were recorded. The number of ectopic ventricular and supraventricular beats (sinus beats) that occurred in 60 seconds during the T1 and T2 ECG recordings was compared. T1 and T2 electrolytes and SABP were also compared.

RESULTS

There was an increase in the ionized magnesium concentration, a decrease in the heart rate and the number of ventricular ectopic beats, and an increase in the number of supraventricular beats at T2. Two dogs converted to a sinus rhythm at T2 that was not sustained.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous administration of 0.1 mmol/kg (0.2 mEq/kg) magnesium sulfate in dogs with ventricular ectopy decreased the number of ventricular beats and heart rate. However, a specific conclusion regarding the use of magnesium sulfate as a first-line therapy for dogs with ventricular tachyarrhythmias at the investigated dose cannot be made.

Veterinary-focused assessment with sonography for trauma-airway, breathing, circulation, disability and exposure: a prospective observational study in 64 canine trauma patients

OBJECTIVE

To describe the technique and findings of the 'veterinary focused assessment with sonography for trauma-airway, breathing, circulation, disability and exposure' protocol in dogs suffering from trauma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prospective observational study on a new point-of-care ultrasound protocol on 64 dogs suffering from trauma and comparison of findings with radiology.

RESULTS

Comparison of the results of this new ultrasound protocol for trauma patients with radiography findings for pneumothorax, pleural effusion, alveolar-interstitial syndrome and abdominal effusion revealed positive agreement of 89, 83, 100 and 87% and negative agreement of 76, 83, 76 and 92%, respectively. Novel findings of the 'veterinary focused assessment with sonography for trauma-airway, breathing, circulation, disability and exposure' exam, which were not previously reported for dogs undergoing focused assessment with sonography for trauma, included alveolar-interstitial syndrome (suggestive of pulmonary contusions), diaphragmatic hernia, retroperitoneal effusion and tracheal injury. Our new technique may also help identify increased intracranial pressure via changes in optic nerve sheath diameter and haemodynamic instability through the evaluation of the caudal vena cava and cardiac function.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The described ultrasound examination protocol can be rapidly performed on dogs suffering from trauma during resuscitation and it may detect injuries previously undetectable using other veterinary point-of-care ultrasound protocols.

Incidence of hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis in dogs and cats with and without nasogastric tubes over a period of up to 36 hours in the intensive care unit

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the incidence of hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis (HCMA) in dogs and cats in the ICU that had intermittent nasogastric tube (NGT) aspiration for up to 36 hours.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study (December 2013 to October 2014).

SETTING

Privately owned emergency and referral teaching hospital.

ANIMALS

Forty-nine client-owned dogs and 16 client-owned cats.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients wherein NGT placement was recommended and client consent was obtained were included in the interventional group. Those with an NGT placed (NGT group) had the NGT aspirated every 4 hours. Patients for whom placement of a NGT was declined by the owner served as a reference group (NoNGT). Venous blood gas and electrolyte values were obtained every 12 hours.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Thirty-five dogs and cats had an NGT placed. Thirty dogs and cats did not have an NGT placed. The serum venous blood gas and electrolyte changes were compared over time within the NGT group and between the NGT and NoNGT groups. No cases developed HCMA. In the NGT group, blood pH increased over time. There was no significant difference between the NGT and the NoNGT group in the average value of pH, HCO₃^- , base excess, chloride, or corrected chloride. Serum venous blood gas, chloride, and corrected chloride changes were not associated with the volumes of gastric fluid aspirated over time.

CONCLUSIONS

In this small population of dogs and cats, intermittent NGT aspiration was not associated with the development of HCMA over a period of up to 36 hours after NGT placement.

Diabetic ketoacidosis in the cat: Recognition and essential treatment

Practical relevance: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a not uncommon emergency in both newly diagnosed and poorly regulated diabetic cats. When there is a heightened metabolic rate and energy requirement due to concurrent illness, an increase in the release of glucose counter-regulatory hormones causes insulin receptor resistance, lipolysis, free fatty acid release and ketogenesis. This necessitates not only treatment to eliminate the ketosis and control blood glucose, but also investigation of concurrent illnesses. Clinical challenges: A number of metabolic derangements can occur with DKA, requiring a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, elimination of ketones, careful correction of glucose, electrolyte and acid base abnormalities, and close monitoring.

AUDIENCE

Any veterinarian that cares for cats in urgent and emergency situations should understand the pathophysiology of DKA in order to address an individual's clinical signs and metabolic derangements. Evidence base: This review draws evidence from the peer-reviewed literature as well as the author's personal clinical experience.

Autologous blood transfusion in dogs with thoracic or abdominal hemorrhage: 25 cases (2007-2012)

OBJECTIVE

To describe the use and outcome following autologous blood transfusion (ABT) in dogs.

DESIGN

Retrospective study (January 2007-July 2012).

SETTING

Private veterinary referral center.

ANIMALS

Twenty-five dogs that underwent ABT secondary to thoracic or abdominal hemorrhage.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The hospital transaction database was searched using the keyword "autotransfusion" from January 2007 to July 2012. Data collected included signalment, body weight, etiology of hemorrhage, source and method of collection, volumes and method of ABT administration, use of anticoagulant, reported complications, and outcome. Twenty-five dogs were included for a total of 27 ABTs. Causes of hemorrhage included vascular trauma (14/25 dogs, 56%), ruptured tumor (8/25, 32%), and coagulopathy attributed to brodifacoum toxicosis (3/25, 12%). Autologous blood was collected from the abdominal (19/25, 76%), thoracic (5/25, 20%), or abdominal and thoracic cavities (1/25, 4%). Anticoagulant was added to the ABT blood in 13 of 25 (52%) cases. A median ABT volume of 29.3 mL/kg (range 2.9-406.9 mL/kg) was infused through either a 210 μm blood administration filter (21/27, 78%) or an 18 μm hemonate filter (6/27, 22%). Reported complications that may have been associated with ABT included hypocalcemia (4/17, 24%), hemolyzed serum (5/19, 26%), and prolonged coagulation times (4/5, 80%). These complications were considered of minimal clinical significance. Additional blood products were administered in 17 of 25 (68%) dogs. Seventeen (68%) dogs survived to discharge. Cause of death in the remaining cases was euthanasia or cardiac arrest secondary to uncontrollable hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS

ABT is an adjunct to volume replacement in dogs with thoracic or abdominal hemorrhage secondary to vascular trauma, ruptured tumor, or anticoagulant rodenticide toxicosis. ABT may be used as bridge to definitive hemorrhage control, particularly when other blood products are not available or affordable. Complications may include hypocalcemia, prolonged coagulation times, and hemolysis.

Magnesium physiology and clinical therapy in veterinary critical care

OBJECTIVE

To review magnesium physiology including absorption, excretion, and function within the body, causes of magnesium abnormalities, and the current applications of magnesium monitoring and therapy in people and animals.

ETIOLOGY

Magnesium plays a pivotal role in energy production and specific functions in every cell in the body. Disorders of magnesium can be correlated with severity of disease, length of hospital stay, and recovery of the septic patient. Hypermagnesemia is seen infrequently in people and animals with significant consequences reported. Hypomagnesemia is more common in critically ill people and animals, and can be associated with platelet, immune system, neurological, and cardiovascular dysfunction as well as alterations in insulin responsiveness and electrolyte imbalance.

DIAGNOSIS

Measurement of serum ionized magnesium in critically or chronically ill veterinary patients is practical and provides information necessary for stabilization and treatment. Tissue magnesium concentrations may be assessed using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy as well as through the application of fluorescent dye techniques.

THERAPY

Magnesium infusions may play a therapeutic role in reperfusion injury, myocardial ischemia, cerebral infarcts, systemic inflammatory response syndromes, tetanus, digitalis toxicity, bronchospasms, hypercoagulable states, and as an adjunct to specific anesthetic or analgesic protocols. Further veterinary studies are needed to establish the frequency and importance of magnesium disorders in animals and the potential benefit of magnesium infusions as a therapeutic adjunct to specific diseases.

PROGNOSIS

The prognosis for most patients with magnesium disorders is variable and largely dependent on the underlying cause of the disorder.

Hydroxyethyl starch: a review of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, current products, and potential clinical risks, benefits, and use

OBJECTIVE

To review and summarize the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of hydroxyethyl starch (HES), as well as reported risks and benefits of HES infusion, and to provide administration and monitoring recommendations for HES use in dogs and cats.

DATA SOURCES

Veterinary and human peer-reviewed medical literature, including scientific reviews, clinical and laboratory research articles, and authors' clinical experience.

SUMMARY

HES solutions are the most frequently used synthetic colloid plasma volume expanders in human and veterinary medicine. The majority of research in human medicine has focused on the adverse effects of HES infusion, with emphasis on acute kidney injury and coagulation derangements. The studies often differ in or fail to report factors, such as the type, amount, interval, and concentration of HES administered; the patient population studied; or concurrent fluids administered. Currently, there is no definitive clinical evidence that the reported adverse effects of HES use in human medicine occur in veterinary species. There is little information available on HES administration techniques or simultaneous administration of additional fluids in human and veterinary medicine. The rationale for HES use in small animals has been largely extrapolated from human medical studies and guidelines. A controlled approach to intravenous fluid resuscitation using crystalloid and HES volumes titrated to reach desired resuscitation end point parameters is outlined for small animal practitioners.

CONCLUSION

The extrapolation of data from human studies directly to small animals should be done with the knowledge that there may be species variations and different pharmacokinetics with different HES solutions. Veterinary reports indicate that bolus and continuous rate infusions of 6% hetastarch solutions at moderate doses are well tolerated in feline and canine subjects. Further research in domesticated species is necessary to better define and expand the knowledge regarding use of HES solutions in small animal medicine.

Comparison of Hb-200 and 6% hetastarch 450/0.7 during initial fluid resuscitation of 20 dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus

OBJECTIVE

To compare the use of polymerized stroma-free bovine hemoglobin (Hb-200) and 6% hetastarch 450/0.7 (HES 450/0.7) in 0.9% saline during fluid resuscitation of dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV).

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized clinical case series.

SETTING

Private specialty and referral clinic.

ANIMALS

Twenty client-owned dogs presenting with GDV.

INTERVENTIONS

Dogs presenting with GDV and abnormal perfusion parameters first received rapid IV infusion of a buffered isotonic replacement crystalloid (15 mL/kg) and IV opioids. Patients were then randomized to receive either Hb-200 (N = 10) or HES 450/0.7 (N = 10). Balanced isotonic replacement crystalloids (10-20 mL/kg IV) were rapidly infused along with either Hb-200 or HES in 5 mL/kg IV aliquots to meet resuscitation end points.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Resuscitation was defined as meeting at least 2 of 3 criteria: (1) capillary refill time 1-2 seconds, pink mucous membrane color, strong femoral pulse quality; (2) heart rate (HR) ≤ 150/min; or (3) indirect arterial systolic blood pressure (SBP) > 90 mm Hg. HR, SBP, packed cell volume, hemoglobin, glucose, venous pH, bicarbonate, base excess, anion gap, and colloid osmotic pressure were compared at hospital entry and within 30 minutes post-resuscitation. Compared to the HES group, the Hb-200 group required significantly less colloid (4.2 versus 18.4 mL/kg) and crystalloid (31.3 versus 48.1 mL/kg) to reach resuscitation end points (P = 0.001). Time to resuscitation was significantly shorter in the Hb-200 group (12.5 versus 52.5 min).

CONCLUSIONS

Dogs with GDV receiving Hb-200 during initial resuscitation required smaller volumes of both crystalloid and colloid fluids and reached resuscitation end points faster than dogs receiving HES 450/0.7 (P = 0.02).

The role of aquaporin 4 in the brain

Emerging evidence suggests that aquaporin (AQP) 4 water channels play an important role in water homeostasis in the brain. These water channels are most abundant in the cell membrane of astrocytes, but are also present within ependymal cell membranes and in osmosensory areas of the hypothalamus. Water transport through AQP4 depends on concentration gradients across the membrane, but the rate of transport is determined by the capacity of astrocytes to up- and down-regulate AQP4 numbers, their location within the membrane, and the overall permeability of the channel. Other functions of brain AQP4 involve potassium uptake and release by astrocytes, migration of glial cells, glial scarring, and astrocyte-to-astrocyte cell communication. AQP water channels are involved in formation and control of edema in the brain and in multiple disease processes in the brain, such as seizures and tumors. There is abundant scientific literature on AQP4 describing its structure, function, location, and role in water homeostasis and edema in the brain. Investigation of AQP expression in the canine and feline brain should be pursued so that clinically relevant comparisons between findings in mice, rats, and people and animal patients can be made.

Evaluation of initial plasma lactate values as a predictor of gastric necrosis and initial and subsequent plasma lactate values as a predictor of survival in dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus: 84 dogs (2003-2007)

OBJECTIVE

To test whether an initial plasma lactate ≥ 6.0 mmol/L is associated with the presence of macroscopic gastric wall necrosis and overall survival in dogs presenting with gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Additionally, if no association was identified we sought to identify a different predictive initial plasma lactate concentration and to examine whether serial plasma lactate concentrations provide better prediction of survival.

DESIGN

Retrospective study over a 5-year period (2003-2007).

SETTING

Urban private referral small animal teaching hospital.

ANIMALS

Eighty-four client-owned dogs with a diagnosis of GDV and plasma lactate measurements.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

There was no statistically significant relationship found between survival and the presence of macroscopic gastric wall necrosis with the initial plasma lactate ≥ 6 mmol/L. There was a significant relationship between the initial plasma lactate >2.9 mmol/L for predicting necrosis and <4.1 mmol/L for predicting survival to discharge. Forty dogs that had an increased initial plasma lactate (>2.5 mmol/L) also had a subsequent plasma lactate measured within 12 hours of presentation, with 37/40 dogs surviving and 70% of these surviving dogs having the subsequent lactate decrease by ≥ 50% within 12 hours. The 3/40 that died failed to decrease their plasma lactate by ≥ 50% from the initial blood lactate.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that an initial presenting plasma lactate concentration ≥ 6.0 mmol/L is not predictive of macroscopic gastric wall necrosis or survival in dogs presenting with GDV. A decrease in plasma lactate concentrations ≥ 50% within 12 hours may be a good indicator for survival. Limitations to the study include its retrospective nature, the small number of patients, and the number of dogs that were euthanized rather than allowed to progress to a natural outcome.

Airway obstruction in a dog after Dieffenbachia ingestion

OBJECTIVE

To describe a case of Dieffenbachia ingestion in a dog presented for dysphagia and airway obstruction successfully treated with a temporary tracheostomy and supportive care beyond that reported in the veterinary literature.

CASE SUMMARY

An 8-year-old male neutered Labrador Retriever, weighing 30 kg, was presented with the complaint of choking and gagging. Abdominal radiographs showed that he had a distended stomach full of foreign material and a gastrotomy was performed. After receiving preanesthetic medication, the dog developed inspiratory stridor and during anesthetic induction, marked oropharyngeal swelling complicated tracheal intubation. During surgery a large amount of dog bedding and Dieffenbachia plant material was removed. Because of the severity of the oropharyngeal swelling, the dog required a temporary tracheostomy and treatment for an acute allergic reaction related to the Dieffenbachia ingestion. The patient was discharged after 6 days in the hospital and had no significant complications.

NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED

To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of successful treatment of an airway obstruction related to the toxicity of Dieffenbachia ingestion.

Perfusion versus hydration: impact on the fluid therapy plan

Creating a fluid therapy plan that is adequate to meet an individual patient's needs depends on identifying whether the animal has poor perfusion, is dehydrated, or both. This article reviews the body's fluid compartments, fluid dynamics, and the clinical parameters used to differentiate perfusion from hydration and create a fluid therapy plan.

Chromosomal distribution of 18S-25S rDNA in four Lupinus species visualized by fluorescence in situ hybridization

The number and position of 18S-25S rDNA sites in 4 selected Lupinus species are reported for the first time. L. atlanticus, L. subcarnosus and L. paniculatus had two rDNA loci, while L. albus exhibited only one loci. Among these 4 species, all of them exhibited one large pair of strong signals that extends from the short arm to a NOR on a chromosome satellite. L. atlanticus, L. subcarnosus, L. paniculatus had one more locus of 18-25S rDNA, but a pair of weak hybridization signals were observed in L. paniculatus when 18S-25S rDNA was used as probe. The results are discussed in terms of the evolutionary relationships among these species.

Cytogenetic characterization and fae1 gene variation in progenies from asymmetric somatic hybrids between Brassica napus and Crambe abyssinica

Sexual progenies of asymmetric somatic hybrids between Brassica napus and Crambe abyssinica were analyzed with respect to chromosomal behavior, fae1 gene introgression, fertility, and fatty-acid composition of the seed. Among 24 progeny plants investigated, 11 plants had 38 chromosomes and were characterized by the occurrence of normal meiosis with 19 bivalents. The other 13 plants had more than 38 chromosomes, constituting a complete chromosomal set from B. napus plus different numbers of additional chromosomes from C. abyssinica. The chromosomes of B. napus and C. abyssinica origin could be clearly discriminated by genomic in situ hybridization (GISH) in mitotic and meiotic cells. Furthermore, meiotic GISH enabled identification of intergenomic chromatin bridges and of asynchrony between the B. napus and C. abyssinca meiotic cycles. Lagging, bridging and late disjunction of univalents derived from C. abyssinica were observed. Analysis of cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS) markers derived from the fae1 gene showed novel patterns different from the B. napus recipient in some hybrid offspring. Most of the progeny plants had a high pollen fertility and seed set, and some contained significantly greater amounts of seed erucic acid than the B. napus parent. This study demonstrates that a part of the C. abyssinica genome can be transferred into B. napus via asymmetric hybridization and maintained in sexual progenies of the hybrids. Furthermore, it confirms that UV irradiation improves the fertility of the hybrid and of its sexual progeny via chromosomal elimination and facilitates the introgression of exotic genetic material into crop species.Key words: asymmetric somatic hybrid, Brassica napus, Crambe abyssinica, cytogenetics, fae1 gene.

Development of rapeseed with high erucic acid content by asymmetric somatic hybridization between Brassica napus and Crambe abyssinica

PEG-induced asymmetric somatic hybridization between Brassica napus and Crambe abyssinica was carried out. C. abyssinica is an annual cruciferous oil crop with a high content of erucic acid in the seed oil valuable for technical purposes. UV-irradiated mesophyll protoplasts of C. abyssinica cv 'Carmen' and cv 'Galactica' were fused with hypocotyl protoplasts of different genotypes of B. napus cv 'Maplus' and breeding line '11502'. Shoot regeneration frequency varied between 6.1% and 20.8% among the different doses of UV-irradiation, ranging from 0.05 J/cm(2) to 0.30 J/cm(2). In total, 124 shoots were regenerated, of which 20 asymmetric somatic hybrids were obtained and verified by nuclear DNA content and AFLP analysis. AFLP data showed that some of the characteristic bands from C. abyssinica were present in the hybrids. Cytological analysis of these hybrids showed that 9 out of 20 asymmetric hybrids had 38 chromosomes, the others contained 40-78 chromosomes, having additional chromosomes between 2 and 40 beyond the 38 expected for B. napus. The investigation into the fertility of asymmetric somatic hybrids indicated that the fertility increased with increasing UV-doses ranging from 0.05 J/cm(2) to 0.15 J/cm(2). All of the hybrids were cultured to full maturity, and could be fertilized and set seeds after self-pollination or backcrosses with B. napus. An analysis of fatty acid composition in the seeds was conducted and found to contain significantly greater amounts of erucic acid than B. napus. This study indicates that UV-irradiation could be used as a tool to produce asymmetric somatic hybrids and to promote the fertility of the hybrids.

Colloid and crystalloid resuscitation

Use of colloid and crystalloid fluids during resuscitation can be a complicated process. An understanding by the veterinarian of the patient's cardiovascular state, the underlying pathologic process, and the characteristics of crystalloid and colloid fluids available is necessary for establishing a fluid therapy plan. Through frequent reassessment and tailoring of the fluid plan according to the patient's response, the risks of fluid overload and fluid deficiency are reduced.

Colloid osmometry

Complications related to intravascular fluid resuscitation and maintenance can become life-threatening. Overhydration and underhydration can lead to significant perfusion abnormalities and can delay or prevent recovery. A working knowledge of transcapillary fluid dynamics gives the veterinarian the basis for evaluating the cause of alterations that make up Starling's forces. By combining this knowledge with patient assessment and laboratory diagnostics, the veterinarian can make a logical decision about the best treatment to correct the Starling's force alteration. Colloid osmometry is a particularly useful tool for assessing a patient's colloid osmotic pressure. It allows the veterinarian to distinguish between reduced oncotic pressure and increased hydrostatic pressure as a cause for intravascular fluid loss or edema formation.

Tracheal rupture associated with intubation in cats: 20 cases (1996-1998)

OBJECTIVE

To characterize clinical features of tracheal rupture associated with endotracheal intubation in cats and to evaluate the most appropriate treatment for this condition.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

ANIMALS

20 cats with a history of endotracheal intubation that subsequently developed dyspnea or subcutaneous emphysema.

PROCEDURE

Medical records of cats with a presumptive diagnosis of tracheal rupture associated with intubation were reviewed. Clinical and clinicopathologic data were retrieved.

RESULTS

Cats were evaluated 5 hours to 12 days after a surgical or medical procedure requiring general anesthesia with intubation had been performed. Fourteen (70%) cats were evaluated after dental prophylaxis. All cats radiographed had pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema. Eighteen of 19 cats were initially treated medically. Duration of medical treatment for cats that did not have surgery ranged from 12 to 72 hours. Cats that had surgery received medical treatment 3 to 24 hours prior to the surgical procedure. Medical treatment alone was administered to 15 cats that had moderate dyspnea, whereas surgical treatment was chosen for 4 cats that had severe dyspnea (open-mouth breathing despite treatment with oxygen) or worsening subcutaneous emphysema. Eighteen cats had improvement of clinical signs, 1 cat died after surgery, and 1 cat died before medical or surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Most cats with tracheal rupture associated with intubation can be treated medically. Cats with worsening clinical signs (severe dyspnea, suspected pneumothorax, or worsening subcutaneous emphysema) should have surgery performed immediately to correct the defect.

Comparison of esophageal Doppler monitor generated minute distance and cardiac output in a porcine model of ventricular fibrillation

The primary goal of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is to increase cardiac output (CO), providing adequate tissue perfusion and oxygenation to maintain normal organ function. A non-invasive, easy to use, commercially available esophageal doppler monitor (EDM, Deltex) has been found to provide minute distance (MD), which is the distance moved by a column of blood through the aorta in 1 min. The goal of our study was to determine if CO measurements correlate with the EDM MD, before and during cardiac arrest, in a porcine model of ventricular fibrillation. Twenty pigs were anesthetized and an EDM was placed. MD measurement using EDM, and CO measurement using florescent microsphere injections were compared before and during CPR. MD correlated well with CO (r2 = 0.96) before and during CPR. Based on the excellent correlation between MD as determined by EDM and CO by florescent microsphere technique, it appears that the non-invasive use of the EDM may play a valuable role in determination of CO during CPR.

Fluid therapy. Crystalloids and colloids

Appropriate fluid therapy requires an understanding of fluid dynamics and pathologic alterations during various disease states. In addition, it requires an understanding of the pharmacologic differences of available fluids. Crystalloid fluids and colloid fluids can be used in combination to treat a variety of volume-deficient states. Synthetic colloids are also used to treat hyponcotic states. Blood products are used to replace blood components and coagulation proteins. Frequent monitoring and reassessment are required to prevent volume overload and life-threatening edema.

The role of blood component therapy in the management of canine and feline patients with cancer

Blood component therapy may be required for a variety of pathologic reasons in the cancer patient. The tumor itself not only affects various cell lines, but treatment with chemotherapeutic agents can induce cytopenias. In addition, chronic and acute hemorrhage can be caused by tumor erosion and rupture or by paraneoplastic coagulopathies. Component replacement will depend on the underlying hematologic deficiencies and should be performed in conjunction with treating the cause of the deficiency.

Hypovolemic shock and resuscitation

Hypovolemic shock is the manifestation of hypoperfusion from inadequate intravascular volume resulting in cellular hypoxia. Early, effective treatment tailored to the individual patient will minimize morbidity and mortality. The causes and end-organ responses can differ with each patient, requiring an understanding of the underlying physiology and pathophysiology. Treatment always consists of oxygen and isotonic crystalloids and may require the use of colloids, corticosteroids, antibiotics, and vasomotor drugs.

Properties of Isoaccepting tRNALys, tRNAGlu and tRNAGln from rabbit Reticulocytes and liver. Multiplicity, Codon Recognition and Inactivation by Iodine

The three tRNA species from rabbit liver and reticulocytes, each corresponding to the codons XAA and XAG(X equals A, G, C) were investigated. The elution patterns of the isoaccepting tRNA subspecies after separation by reversedphase chromatography followed by determination of amino acid acceptance have common and differing characteristics. Three subspecies of tRNALys, two of tRNAGlu and three of tRNAGln have been found in reticulocytes, wheras two subspecies of tRNALys, three of tRNAGlu and four of tRNAGln have been determined in rabbit liver. Examination of codon recognition by means of a ribosome binding assay showed that each subspecies binds exclusively in the presence of only one of the two possible triplets; i.e. wobbling was not found. It has been assumed that this high specificity, which is not to be expected according to the "wobble hypothesis", is due to a 2-thiouracil base in the first position of the anticodon. This was supported by oxidation experiments with iodine. Treatment with iodine significantly reduces the aminoacylation capacity of all subspecies that show specific binding with triplets ending in adenosine. We describe and compare for the first time the characteristics of eucaryotic tRNA species which occupy homologous positions in the codon table. Thus it can be seen that all the investigated subspecies have rigorously specific codon recognition in common, wherby "wobbling" can probably be excluded by a principle that is valid for all the investigated species.