Search Results (342)

In dogs, gut microbiome dysbiosis is associated with several health conditions, including gastrointestinal disease. Probiotic supplementation can support a balanced gut microbiome. This study assessed the impact of a probiotic containing a mixture of Lacticaseibacillus casei, Limosilactobacillus fermentum, Levilactobacillus brevis, and Enterococcus faecium on the gut microbiota of six dogs using short-term colonic simulations. Two groups were included, i.e., blank versus supplementation with the test product, and incubated for 48 h. Probiotic-supplemented reactors had significantly greater fermentative activity compared with the blank, as shown by lower pH levels and higher gas pressure after 6 h, 24 h, and 48 h of incubation (p < 0.05 for all). Saccharolytic fermentation also increased, with a significantly higher level of acetate at 24 h and propionate at 6 h, 24 h, and 48 h with the test product versus blank (p < 0.05 for all). There was no significant effect of the test product on alpha-diversity, but beta-diversity analysis revealed a clear separation in the microbial community composition between the test product and blank. Eight bacterial taxa were enriched with test product supplementation, including the probiotic test strains as well as Megamonas and Bacteroides species. This study, using in vitro short-term colon simulations with six canine donors, provides insights into the probiotic characteristics of the test product. Full article

Background: Impaction of maxillary canines is a frequent clinical challenge in orthodontics. Early diagnosis is key to effective management. Methods: This narrative review included studies published from 2004 to 2024. An electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar (September–November 2024), using predefined eligibility criteria. The selection and drafting were completed in the following months. Studies involving orthopedic, orthodontic, or surgical-orthodontic management of impacted maxillary canines were included. Case reports and procedures limited to avulsion or transplantation were excluded. Results: A total of 10 studies were analyzed, comprising 5529 patients, of whom 2530 met the criteria for treatment-specific analysis. Surgical exposure with orthodontic traction was the most frequent treatment (72%), followed by monitoring (12%), maxillary expansion (6%), and extractions (10%). Interceptive approaches were mainly applied in patients aged 7–18 years, with favorable outcomes especially before age 12. In adults, more invasive treatments were required, often with reduced success rates. Conclusions: Early diagnosis and interceptive extraction of deciduous canines reduce treatment complexity and improve success. Therapeutic outcomes are strongly influenced by patient age, tooth position, and angulation. A structured, radiographically guided approach, supported by the proposed decision-making flowchart, may optimize clinical outcomes. However, heterogeneity of included studies and lack of long-term follow-up limit the strength of available evidence. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate impacted mandibular canines and adjacent dentoalveolar structures using cone beam computed tomography. Methods: Measurements were made on CBCT images of 54 impacted mandibular canines. Parameters such as the position of the canine teeth, follicle diameter, their relationship with the mental foramen and the incisive mandibular canal, resorption in the adjacent teeth, interpremolar and intermolar width, arch symmetry, and mesiodistal width of the canine teeth were investigated. Results: The resorption rate in adjacent permanent teeth was recorded as 14.8%. No statistically significant difference was found between the follicle size of the canine tooth and the resorption in the adjacent teeth (p > 0.05). Cortical bone perforation was found in 83.3% of individuals with impacted mandibular canines. Teeth in contact with the mental foramen and incisive mandibular canal were found in 11.1% and 6.5%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the interpremolar and intermolar width on the impacted and non-impacted sides (p > 0.05). However, a significant difference was observed in the mesiodistal width of the canines and arch length on the impacted and non-impacted sides (p < 0.05). Conclusions: No correlation was found between root resorption in adjacent teeth and follicle size. Cortical bone perforations were observed in most impacted canines, and some were in contact with the mental foramen and the incisive mandibular canal. Although transversal arch widths were similar on the impacted and non-impacted sides, differences in arch length and mesiodistal widths may affect arch symmetry and should be considered in treatment planning. Full article

Canine osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, progressive disease that impacts mobility and welfare, often with subtle clinical signs that fluctuate over time. This exploratory case series evaluated the potential of a wearable sensor system (Maven Pet AI System) to detect real-time deviations in activity and rest patterns in dogs with OA under home-based conditions. Five client-owned dogs were monitored over periods ranging from 56 to 126 days, generating longitudinal data on activity and rest patterns. Nine clinically relevant events were identified: seven OA-related flare-ups and two non-orthopedic health issues. In eight of these events, deviations in activity profiles were temporally aligned with symptom onset, therapeutic response, or recovery. Statistically significant changes were observed in six out of nine events, particularly in the Active and Excited categories, while visual trend analysis revealed clinically relevant deviations even in the absence of statistical significance. In one case, decreased activity preceded owner recognition, suggesting potential for early detection. Sensor data also contextualized episodes of overexertion and non-orthopedic conditions, such as pruritus and gastroenteritis. Owner and clinician feedback indicated high usability and perceived clinical value. Despite the small sample, these findings suggest that continuous sensor-based monitoring may complement conventional evaluations and support earlier, more individualized OA management in real-world settings. Further studies are needed to validate and expand these preliminary observations. Full article

Background: Augmented-reality (AR) navigation is emerging as a means of turning pre-operative cone-beam CT data into intuitive, in situ guidance for difficult tooth removal, yet the scattered evidence has never been consolidated nor illustrated with a full clinical workflow. Aims: This study aims to narratively synthesise AR applications limited to dental extractions and to illustrate a full AR-guided clinical workflow. Methods: We performed a PRISMA-informed narrative search (PubMed + Cochrane, January 2015–June 2025) focused exclusively on AR applications in dental extractions and found nine eligible studies. Results: These pilot reports—covering impacted third molars, supernumerary incisors, canines, and cyst-associated teeth—all used marker-less registration on natural dental surfaces and achieved mean target-registration errors below 1 mm with headset set-up times under three minutes; the only translational series (six molars) recorded a mean surgical duration of 21 ± 6 min and a System Usability Scale score of 79. To translate these findings into practice, we describe a case of AR-guided mandibular third-molar extraction. A QR-referenced 3D-printed splint, intra-oral scan, and CBCT were fused to create a colour-coded hologram rendered on a Magic Leap 2 headset. The procedure took 19 min and required only a conservative osteotomy and accurate odontotomy that ended without neurosensory disturbance (VAS pain 2/10 at one week). Conclusions: Collectively, the literature synthesis and clinical demonstration suggest that current AR platforms deliver sub-millimetre accuracy, minimal workflow overhead, and high user acceptance in high-risk extractions while highlighting the need for larger, controlled trials to prove tangible patient benefit. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the biomechanical effects of Ballista Spring and Elastic Thread systems on impacted maxillary canines using three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA). Materials and Methods: Finite element models were constructed from CBCT images of a human maxilla, incorporating cortical bone, spongy bone, teeth, and periodontal ligament. Two orthodontic force application methods were simulated: Ballista Spring (0.016-inch stainless steel) and Elastic Thread (0.25 mm medical-grade latex). Both systems delivered a force of 150 g to the impacted canine. Stress distribution and initial displacement patterns were analyzed using ANSYS Workbench. Results: The Ballista Spring generated a more uniform stress distribution across the periodontal ligament and cortical bone, with a maximum von Mises stress of 0.0042 MPa. The impacted canine exhibited an initial displacement of 0.015 μm, primarily in the vertical and distal directions, indicating a controlled movement path. In contrast, the Elastic Thread showed a more concentrated stress pattern with a maximum von Mises stress of 0.0035 MPa, and the impacted canine experienced 0.013 μm of displacement, accompanied by greater lateral deviation and buccal tipping of the adjacent teeth. The Ballista Spring induced higher stress levels on anchorage teeth—particularly the first molars and premolars—while the Elastic Thread exerted more localized stress around the impacted canine and adjacent structures. All observed stress values remained within physiological thresholds, indicating no immediate risk of tissue damage. Conclusions: Both systems were effective in facilitating the eruption of the impacted canines. However, the Ballista Spring provided more favorable stress distribution and controlled displacement, making it suitable for complex cases requiring anchorage preservation. The Elastic Thread, while less biomechanically efficient, remained a practical and cost-effective alternative in patients with adequate periodontal support. Full article

Background: This case series study aims to evaluate the spontaneous eruption of impacted canines following diode laser disinclusion surgery without orthodontic traction, and to analyze the correlation with five prognostic factors: age, sex of the patient, angle α, sector, and height of inclusion of the canine. Methods: The sample included 15 patients aged 13–30 years and 20 palatally impacted canines. The patients’ records were collected, and prognostic factors were assessed. All patients underwent disinclusion surgery using a diode laser (K-Laser, Eltech, Blue Derma) and post-surgery, canines were monitored with intraoral scans and photos at 1 week, 8 weeks (T1), and 16 weeks (T2). The STL files were superimposed with the open-source software MeshLab (MeshLab 2023.12, Visual Computing Lab, Pisa, Italy), and the eruption values were measured. Through multiple linear regression analysis, the relationships between the five prognostic factors and the total spontaneous eruption value were analyzed. Results: The canines treated in this study responded with an average eruption of 4.70 mm. For the prognostic factors sex (p = 0.94) and angle α (p = 0.12), no statistically significant relationship with eruption was found. The variables age (p < 0.001), sector II (p = 0.02), sector III (p = 0.03), sector IV (p = 0.06), and inclusion height (p < 0.001) had negative linear coefficients. Consequently, as the values of these three prognostic factors increased, a lower eruption of the included element measured in millimeters was obtained. Conclusions: All canines successfully erupted following the disinclusion procedure, avoiding the use of orthodontic traction. Patient sex and the α angle of impaction were not reliable predictors of eruption outcomes. In contrast, age, sector, and inclusion height measured via CBCT showed high statistical significance and could be used as prognostic factors to predict the eruptive response following disinclusion surgery. Full article

(1) Background: Cryopreservation of epididymal spermatozoa in dogs is challenging due to their lower cryotolerance compared to ejaculated spermatozoa. Given the limited sperm volume obtained per individual, efficient recovery and preservation techniques are essential. (2) Methods: This study assessed sperm collection and cryopreservation methods from the cauda epididymis of ten dogs undergoing routine elective castration. After dissection and mincing, the cauda epididymidis tissue was incubated in 0.9% saline at 38 °C for either 10- or 30-min. Samples were analyzed for concentration and motility using AndroVision^® software (CASA; AndroVision™; Minitüb GmbH) (Tiefenbach, Germany). Additional evaluations included histological examination, hypoosmotic swelling test, live/dead staining, and morphological assessments. Three extenders, custom-made Tris-Fructose-Citrate (Tris), custom-made Uppsala, and commercial Optixcell^®, were used for cryopreservation and compared for post-thaw sperm quality. (3) Results: No significant differences were found between the 10- and 30-min incubation groups regarding sperm motility, viability, or histological integrity. The total sperm counts were 292 × 10⁶ ± 175 × 10⁶ for the 10 min group and 233 × 10⁶ ± 162 × 10⁶ for the 30 min group (p = 0.56). Histological sections revealed no significant difference in residual intraluminal spermatozoa between groups, indicating that 10 min of incubation is sufficient for effective sperm migration. Post-thaw sperm motility was significantly higher with Uppsala (17.2 ± 12.2%) and Optixcell^® (11.7 ± 6.5%) compared to Tris (4.7 ± 4.8%). Morphological abnormalities were lowest in samples preserved with Optixcell^® (37.5 ± 10.1%, p = 0.005). (4) Conclusion: A 10 min incubation period is adequate for efficient recovery of epididymal sperm in dogs. Among the tested extenders, Uppsala and Optixcell^® demonstrated superior cryoprotective effects, resulting in better post-thaw motility and reduced morphological abnormalities compared to Tris. Full article

Dogs are the most popular companion animals in Europe, with an estimated population of 106 million in households. Commercial dry dog foods are formulated to meet specific nutritional requirements and ensure safety during storage, often through the addition of preservatives to extend shelf life. This pilot study investigated the antioxidant properties and changes in the fatty acid composition during storage in six mono-protein (containing only one source of animal protein) dry dog foods. These findings might contribute to a better understanding of the long-term nutritional stability of commercial dry dog foods and their potential implications for canine health. Changes in chemical composition, fatty acid profile, and antioxidant properties were analyzed immediately after opening the packages and after 3 and 6 months of storage. Significant alterations (p ≤ 0.05) were observed in nutrient content, particularly crude fat level (decrease from 18.37 g/100 g DM to 16.87 g/100 g DM after 6 months), as well as saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. Antioxidant properties, assessed via DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS, fluctuated over the storage period. Principal component analysis identified distinct patterns in nutrient and antioxidant profiles, highlighting the impact of storage duration and initial food composition on the stability of nutritional and antioxidant properties. The research demonstrates that the quality of commercial dry dog foods, particularly regarding oxidative stability and antioxidant properties, is subject to change over time after opening. The chemical composition of the foods was influenced by storage duration, with significant decreases in crude fat and variations in fatty acid profiles. Full article

Background/Objectives: Impacted teeth are characterized by having more than three-quarters of root development completed, however failing to erupt or demonstrate imminent eruption, as evidenced both by clinical and radiographic evaluation. Canine impaction is an entity of clinical significance considering its potential to affect both oral function and facial aesthetics. If not appropriately managed, this condition may adversely impact functional occlusion and structural smile integrity. The purpose of the study was to investigate the prevalence of impacted and transmigrant canines in a Greek orthodontic cohort and identify potential sex-based differences. Methods: A total of 2594 panoramic radiographs and clinical records of consecutive patients in the mixed and permanent dentition stages, treated at the Department of Orthodontics of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, were retrospectively retrieved and analyzed to detect the presence of impacted and transmigrant canines. Patients lacking complete clinical records or panoramic radiograph, undergoing or had undergone orthodontic treatment, or presenting conditions affecting normal permanent dentition development, including pathological conditions, cleft lip and palate or hereditary disorders, were excluded. Results: At least one impacted canine was detected in 109 patients (67% females, 33% males), with a median age of 15 years (IQR: 13–18), documenting a 4.2% prevalence (6.97% females, 2.32% males). The frequency of maxillary canine impaction was 3.97%, while in the mandible a frequency of 0.46% was reported. The frequency of bilateral canine impaction was 1%, with it being present in 25.7% of patients with canine impaction. The prevalence of transmigrant canines was 0.11%, with detection solely in the mandible. A statistically significant sex difference was detected solely in the prevalence of impaction. Conclusions: Considering the implications of canine impaction, the epidemiological investigation of this entity may facilitate an early diagnosis and treatment. Full article

The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a pivotal role in regulating cardiovascular function, fluid balance, and blood pressure. Recent research has revealed the RAAS’s influence extends beyond cardiovascular physiology, encompassing key roles in inflammation, fibrosis, immune regulation, cancer progression, and organ-specific disease mechanisms. This review provides a comprehensive overview of classical and alternative RAAS pathways, focusing on the dual roles of angiotensin II (Ang II) and angiotensin-(1–7) (Ang 1–7), mediated through AT1R, AT2R, MasR, and MrgD receptors. We discuss molecular signaling cascades, including mitochondrial, nuclear, and caveolae-mediated mechanisms, and explore the impact of RAAS modulation on hepatic fibrosis, vascular remodeling, and autoimmune inflammation. Genetic models and emerging pharmacologic strategies illustrate tissue-specific RAAS actions, emphasizing the therapeutic potential of enhancing the ACE2/Ang 1–7/Mas axis while inhibiting the deleterious ACE/Ang II/AT1R signaling. Furthermore, we highlight implications for veterinary medicine, particularly in canine chronic inflammatory enteropathies, where RAAS dysfunction may contribute to treatment resistance. Understanding RAAS complexity and inter-receptor crosstalk is essential for developing new therapeutic strategies targeting cardiovascular, hepatic, and inflammatory diseases in both human and veterinary contexts. Full article

Periodontal disease in dogs leads to progressive bone loss and adversely impacts overall health. However, cost-effective regenerative strategies are still limited in veterinary practice. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a novel tannic acid (TA)–gelatin-based hydrogel (Gel), incorporating graphene oxide (GO) and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HA), as a potential barrier material for guided tissue regeneration (GTR) applications. The hydrogels—Gel, Gel-GO, Gel-HA, and Gel-GO-HA—were characterized for chemical structure, molecular interactions, surface morphology, nanoparticle dispersion, and tensile strength. Cytotoxicity was assessed using L929 fibroblasts (ISO 10993-5), while cell viability/proliferation, morphology, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) production were evaluated using canine periodontal ligament-derived cells. Results show that crosslinking with tannic acid enhanced the incorporation of graphene oxide and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles via hydrogen bonding into TA–gelatin-based hydrogels. This combination increased surface roughness, reduced degradation rate, and enabled shape memory behavior, critical for guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membranes. The extracts from Gel-HA-GO showed that cytotoxicity was both time- and concentration-dependent in L929 fibroblasts, whereas enhanced cell proliferation and increased ALP production were observed in cultures derived from canine periodontal ligament cells. These findings suggest that TA–gelatin-based hydrogels incorporating GO and HA demonstrated favorable mechanical and physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and osteogenic potential. These attributes suggest their viability as a promising composite for the development of innovative GTR strategies to address periodontal tissue loss in veterinary medicine. Full article

Palatability is a critical determinant of pet food performance, directly influencing voluntary intake, nutrient utilization, and therapeutic efficacy. In this systematic review, we examine peer-reviewed research publications, patent filings, and commercial product data pertaining to palatant technologies in dry and wet pet food from 2014 to 2024. Major palatant classes—including fats, proteins, yeast extracts, and novel plant-derived or insect-based hydrolysates—are evaluated for their physicochemical properties, flavor-release mechanisms, and stability during processing. We analyze formulation techniques such as microencapsulation, Maillard-reaction enhancement, and multilayer coating systems, focusing on their impact on aromatic compound retention and palatability consistency. Patent landscape assessment identifies over 15 key innovations in delivery systems, life-stage-specific palatant modulation, and dual-phase release architectures. Dual-phase release architectures are defined as systems that deliver active compounds in two sequential phases, such as immediate and sustained release. Sensory evaluation methodologies—ranging from multivariate preference mapping to descriptive analysis—are critically appraised to correlate human-panel metrics with canine and feline feeding behavior. We also discuss strategic integration of palatants at different processing stages (pre-conditioning, extrusion, and post-extrusion) and the challenges of balancing taste masking with nutritional requirements, particularly in formulations containing alternative proteins for sustainability. Despite rapid market growth in functional palatant-infused products, peer-reviewed literature remains relatively limited, suggesting opportunities for further research on species-specific flavor drivers, synbiotic flavor–nutrient interactions, and novel delivery platforms. This comprehensive overview of palatant science, patent innovations, and market evolution provides evidence-based guidance for researchers, formulators, and veterinarians seeking to optimize organoleptic properties and consumer acceptance of next-generation pet foods. Full article

This study aimed to compare the physiological impact of open ovariectomy (the O group) and laparoscopic ovariectomy (the LA group) in dogs by evaluating intraoperative nociceptive responses, postoperative pain, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress parameters. Sixty healthy dogs were randomly assigned to either technique or a control group (CNT). A standardized anesthetic protocol was used, and their vital signs, pain scores, and blood parameters were measured before, during, and after surgery. Pain was evaluated using the Colorado State University Canine Acute Pain Scale. Oxidative stress was measured by assessing levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), myeloperoxidase (MPO), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Both techniques were safe and well tolerated, with no complications or need for rescue analgesia. However, the open surgery group exhibited significantly higher levels of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers postoperatively, including increased MPO and MDA levels and decreased BuChE. In contrast, the laparoscopic group showed only mild, transient changes, suggesting reduced tissue trauma. The higher glycemic levels observed in the open surgery group further suggest increased tissue trauma and systemic stress, reinforcing the conclusion that laparoscopy has a lower metabolic impact. Although the laparoscopic procedures require more time, their lower physiological impact may facilitate improved postoperative recovery. These results support laparoscopy as the preferred surgical approach in veterinary practice due to its association with improved metabolic stability and recovery outcomes. Full article

Canine histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is a rare tumor with a poor prognosis. Rapid tumor growth often causes central hypoxia and starvation, impacting tumor progression. In the present study, HS cells were cultured under hypoxia and starvation for 1 and 3 days, simulating intermediate and central tumor zones, respectively. Cells were counted at each time point, followed by RNAseq analysis. Only hypoxia significantly reduced the cell number (p < 0.05). Short-term hypoxia altered 1645 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Upregulated genes belonged to vasculature development, and downregulated genes to cell cycle processes. Short-term starvation affected 157 genes, mainly involving responses to stimuli. Prolonged hypoxia and starvation induced 1301 and 836 DEGs, respectively. Prolonged hypoxia upregulated genes mainly involved in immune responses, response to stimulus, adhesion, and angiogenesis. Prolonged starvation upregulated genes associated with signaling, adhesion, circulatory system development, and response to stimulus. Lipid metabolism and cell cycle pathways were downregulated under prolonged hypoxia and starvation, respectively. KEGG “pathways in cancer” were enriched under all conditions (adjusted p-values < 0.05). These findings indicate that hypoxia and starvation significantly alter the expression of genes involved in tumor progression. Further studies, namely post-translational analyses, are needed to elucidate the functional impact of these changes and identify potential therapeutic targets. Full article