Lora Koenhemsi

Background: Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is the main biologically active substance secreted by the pineal gland. The effects of melatonin depend on its binding to specific receptors in target tissues. Melatonin can directly affect tumor cells and affect their proliferation rates. Studies on canine mammary tumor cell cultures have reported that melatonin reduces cancer cells. Most of the physiological effects of melatonin are mediated by its interaction with 2 high-affinity G protein coupled rectors, termed melatonin receptors type 1 and type 2. Mammary tumors, most of which are malignant, are the most common neoplasms in intact bitches. Estimation of the proliferation potential of a tumor is useful for determining tumor malignancy. Also, Ki-67 is the preferred biomarker to determine proliferation and apoptosis in many types of canine mammary tumors. Materials, Methods & Results: It was aimed at determining the difference in the amounts of melatonin (MEL) and melatonin receptor 1A (MTR1A) in the mammary tissues with different tumor types and to reveal its relationship with the tumor development mechanism, evaluating by apoptotic index (AI) and Ki-67 index. The study groups consisted of malignant epithelial tumors (Group MET; n=36) and hyperplasia & dysplasia (Group H&D; n=23). The samples were evaluated in 2 periods: Spring-Summer (SSP) (Group MET; n=23, Group H&D; n=7) and Autumn-Winter (AWP) (Group MET; n=13, Group H&D; n=16). MEL level in group MET was higher than in group H&D in both seasonal periods (P < 0.01). In Group MET, a significant rise in MEL level was observed in SPP than in AWP (P < 0.05). MTR1A level in group H&D was higher than in group MET in both seasonal periods (P < 0.05). In Group H&D, MTR1A level in SSP was higher than in AWP (P = 0.05). In Group MET, a significant rise in MTR1A level was observed in AWP than in SSP (P < 0.05). The Ki-67 index in Group MET was higher compared to group H&D in both seasonal periods (P < 0.001). In Group H&D, Ki-67 index in AWP was higher than in SSP (P < 0.001). In Group MET, a significant rise in Ki-67 index was observed in SSP than in AWP (P < 0.001). The AI value of the MET group tended to be higher than that of the H&D group (P = 0.07). In Group H&D, AI in AWP was higher than in SSP (P < 0.05). In Group MET, a significant rise in AI index was observed in SSP than in AWP (P < 0.05). Discussion: Clinical similarities between human and canine mammary tumors (CMT) include age of onset, hormonal etiology, and disease course. In this respect, this study, which evaluated the amounts of Ki-67, AI, melatonin, and MTR1A in canine mammary tissue, serves as a role model for human breast cancer studies and provides important data, particularly regarding the amounts of endogenous melatonin and MTR1A in canine mammary tumor tissue. Ki-67 index values and endogenous melatonin concentrations were found to be higher in malignant epithelial tumors than in hyperplasia-dysplasia tumors, while AI values tended to be higher in malignant epithelial tumors. Furthermore, MTR1A concentrations were found to be higher in hyperplasia-dysplasia tumors than in malignant epithelial tumors. Overall, the findings indicate that endogenous melatonin levels and melatonin receptor expression are influenced by both seasonal rhythms and tumor biology; however, the role of melatonin within malignant mammary tissue appears to be a potential yet not fully elucidated modulatory effect. Keywords: canine, apoptosis, dog, Ki-67, mammary tumor, melatonin.

Enterolithiasis is a rare gastrointestinal disorder characterized by mechanical obstruction caused by enteroliths formed within the intestinal lumen. Dietary composition, environmental factors, and breed predisposition have been reported to contribute to enterolith formation, with these structures typically developing through mineral accumulation around foreign materials. Although enterolithiasis is relatively common in horses, it has been rarely reported in cats and dogs. Surgical intervention is considered the most effective treatment option in clinically symptomatic cases. In this case report, two cats presented to our faculty clinic with complaints of lethargy and weight loss were evaluated. Hematological examinations revealed anemia in both cases. Abdominal radiographs demonstrated multiple similarly sized radiopaque structures within the small intestinal lumen. Surgical exploration revealed jejunoileal dilatation and ileocecal stenosis. In one case, removal of the enteroliths alone was sufficient, whereas the other case required enterotomy followed by segmental intestinal resection and anastomosis. These cases indicate that enterolithiasis should be considered among the differential diagnoses in patients presenting with chronic gastrointestinal signs and multiple radiopaque intestinal structures. The aim of this case report was to describe the clinical, radiographic, and surgical findings of enterolithiasis in two cats and to contribute to the limited literature regarding this rare condition in small animal practice.

Feline leishmaniosis (FeL) caused by Leishmania infantum is increasingly recognized in endemic areas, but the inflammatory profile during infection remains poorly defined. This case–control study evaluated the acute phase proteins (APPs) serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp), and ceruloplasmin (Cp) in cats with anti-L. infantum antibodies and/or DNA and compared them with healthy negative controls. A total of 125 cats were enrolled, including 62 cats positive by IFAT and/or qPCR and 63 healthy controls. Total protein, albumin, albumin-to-globulin ratio (A/G), and serum protein electrophoresis were also assessed, and correlations with APPs were investigated in positive cats. Compared with controls, L. infantum-positive cats had significantly higher Hp and Cp concentrations, whereas SAA did not differ significantly. They also showed higher total protein, beta2- and gamma-globulin concentrations and lower albumin and A/G ratio. SAA and Hp were negatively correlated with albumin, whereas Cp was positively correlated with total protein and beta-globulin fractions. No significant correlations were found between APPs and IFAT antibody titer. In exploratory analyses, IFAT seropositivity (cut-off ≥ 1:80) was associated with higher Hp, whereas qPCR positivity was associated with higher SAA and Cp concentrations; however, these results should be interpreted cautiously because qPCR-positive cats were few. These findings indicate a measurable inflammatory and dysproteinemic profile in cats with laboratory evidence of L. infantum exposure and/or infection, but do not establish APPs as disease-specific diagnostic markers. However, diagnostic heterogeneity, limited qPCR testing, lack of standardized clinical staging, and possible confounding diseases limit causal and clinical interpretation.

This study aimed to evaluate concentrations of heavy metals (chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb)) in feline mammary tissues, and to correlate their concentration with clinical and pathological findings with reported impact in prognosis. In this study, a total of 62 tissue samples from 15 female cats with malignant epithelial tumors (MET; n=40 masses from 10 cats) and non-neoplastic benign lesions (H&D; n=22 masses from 5 cats) were evaluated. Tissue Cr, Cd, and Pb levels in Group MET were not significantly different from those in Group H&D (P>0.05). In Group MET, Cr in Grade 1 (n=9) tended to be higher than in Grade 2 (n=9) and Grade 3 (n=22), but it could not reach the significance (P=0.054). Also, tissue Cr levels were not significantly related to the tumor sizes (P>0.05). The highest tissue Cd level was observed in T1 (0-2 cm), which was significantly higher than in T2 (2-3 cm) (P 3cm) (P<0.05). Additionally, tissue Pb levels in T3 were significantly higher than those in T2 and T1 (P<0.05). Tissue Cr levels were significantly higher in the presence of ulceration on the tumor (P0.05). The findings of this study indicate that tissue Cr, Cd, and Pb concentrations are associated with clinicopathological features related to the prognosis in feline mammary tumor, which is a suitable natural model for human breast cancer research.

Sjögren's‐like syndrome is a chronic and systemic autoimmune disorder primarily affecting the exocrine glands, leading to symptoms such as xerophthalmia and xerostomia. While Sjögren's‐like syndrome is well‐documented in human medicine, it is rare in veterinary practice, with limited case reports in dogs and cats. This case report describes an 8‐year‐old female miniature Schnauzer diagnosed with Sjögren's‐like syndrome following an initial presentation of seizures, hypersalivation and neck swelling. The dog's history included hypothyroidism and treatment for keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Initial treatment with phenobarbital did not resolve the salivary gland. Following a literature review and ultrasonographic findings, Sjögren's‐like syndrome was diagnosed. Treatment with cyclophosphamide resulted in a reduction in salivary gland swelling. This case underscores the challenges in diagnosing Sjögren's‐like syndrome in veterinary medicine and emphasises the urgent need for increased awareness and research into this rare animal condition.

Prolonged exposure to high doses of certain toxic metals can cause cytotoxic, genotoxic, and carcinogenic effects in cats and dogs. This study aimed to determine the levels of potentially toxic elements in various prescription and non-prescription commercial diets for cats and dogs. A total of 84 dry cat diets and 152 dry dog diets were analyzed. Prescription cat diets were subgrouped into digestive ( n = 24) and urinary ( n = 20), while prescription dog diets were categorized as digestive ( n = 28), urinary ( n = 16), hypoallergenic ( n = 20), and joint ( n = 12). Additionally, non-prescription diets from various brands and flavors were included for dogs ( n = 76) and cats ( n = 40). Chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), boron (B), aluminum (Al), and cobalt (Co) concentrations were determined using inductively coupled plasma with optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES) (Thermo iCAP 6000 series) at appropriate wavelengths. No significant differences were found in mean As, B, and Co levels between total dog and cat diets ( p > 0.05). However, mean Cr and Al levels were significantly higher in dog diets compared to cat diets ( p < 0.001). Among cat diets, no significant differences were observed for Cr, As, B, Al, or Co ( p > 0.05). In non-prescription dog diets, mean Cr was significantly higher than in urinary group ( p < 0.001). Mean Al levels in digestive, joint, and non-prescription groups were higher than in urinary group ( p < 0.001). The levels of Cr, As, B, Al, and Co in both prescription and non-prescription diets were below the maximum tolerable limits established by FEDIAF, AAFCO, and FDA, indicating no risk of diet-related toxicosis in cats and dogs.

Inflammation-induced oxidative stress in macrophages and microglia is associated with excessive production of reactive oxygen species, initiating a damaging cycle of neuroinflammation and cellular injury. These processes are significant contributors to the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders, which involve neuronal dysfunction, cell loss, and behavioral impairments. Under conditions of oxidative stress, activated microglia release pro-inflammatory mediators, further intensifying neuronal damage. Bismuth subsalicylate (BSS), a compound with well-documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, has shown potential in mitigating such neurodegenerative processes. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of BSS in reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in a propionic acid (PPA)-induced autism model, alongside its impact on behavioral outcomes. The study utilized 30 male Wistar albino rats, with PPA administered intraperitoneally at 250 mg/kg/day for 5 days to induce an autism-like phenotype. Rats were divided into three groups: Group 1 (Normal control, n = 10); Group 2 (PPA + saline, PPAS, n = 10); and Group 3 (PPA + BSS, PPAB, n = 10). Treatments were administered for 15 days. Behavioral performance was assessed through three-chamber sociability, open field, and passive avoidance learning tests, followed by biochemical and histological evaluations of brain tissues. Biochemical analysis revealed a significant increase in malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-17 levels in the PPAS group, indicating heightened oxidative stress and inflammation. Treatment notably reduced these markers, suggesting its efficacy in mitigating oxidative damage and inflammatory responses. Immunohistochemical results demonstrated reduced glial activation and enhanced neuronal preservation in the hippocampal and cerebellar regions of treated rats. Additionally, behavioral impairments in social interaction, exploration, and memory were significantly improved with BSS therapy. These results suggest that BSS may confer neuroprotective effects through attenuation of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, potentially contributing to improved neuronal function and behavioral performance in a PPA-induced autism model.

The issue of nosocomial infections, or healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), remains a significant concern in healthcare settings worldwide. In recent times, there has been growing attention towards medical devices, notably stethoscopes, as potential vectors for pathogen transmission. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of Staphylococcal contamination on stethoscopes used by students and staff at Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Faculty of Veterinary Medicine’s animal hospital. Furthermore, it gathered information about stethoscope usage habits, cleaning practices, handwashing routines, participants' knowledge about nosocomial infections, and their interest in learning more about these infections and stethoscope hygiene. The analysis of 50 stethoscope samples revealed that 27 (54%) were contaminated with one or more Staphylococci. The isolated 30 Staphylococcus spp. included Staphylococcus epidermidis (n=17; 56.7%), Staphylococcus hominis (n=10; 33.3%), Staphylococcus pasteuri (n=1; 3.3%), Staphylococcus capitis (n=1; 3.3%), and Staphylococcus schleiferi (n=1; 3.3%). Notably, the absence of the highly pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus in all samples provides some reassurance. However, the presence of various Staphylococcus spp. raises concerns due to their pathogenic potential. These findings align with previous research on stethoscope contamination, emphasizing the persistent problem of bacterial colonization on these crucial medical devices. Despite variations in bacterial prevalence among studies, Staphylococcus spp. consistently emerge as common contaminants, emphasizing the need for comprehensive stethoscope hygiene protocols in veterinary healthcare settings. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing the vector potential of stethoscopes in a veterinary setting within Turkey. The study suggests the necessity for further research, taking a proactive approach to tackle the challenges of nosocomial infections. This would enable the development of strategies to ensure a safer healthcare environment for patients and healthcare providers.

Backround and Aim: Autism is a clinically well-defined disorder that has no treatment yet. Other than behavior modification studies, medical treatments are still investigating. Rat is among the most frequently used experimental animals in such studies. Although various drugs cause autism in this animal species, propionic acid (PPA) was used in this study. Bismuth subsalicylate is frequently used in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases in clinics and has anti-inflammatory and antacid effects. In our study, we examined the effects of bismuth in rats with autism using PPA. Materials and Methods: Thirty male rats were used in this study and 20 of them were given PPA intraperitoneally at 250 mg/kg/day for five days. Rats were randomly divided into three groups: Group 1 (no procedure was applied, n=10), Group 2 (intraperitoneal PPA+1 ml/kg/day % 0.9 salines given orally, n=10), and Group 3 (intraperitoneal PPA+60 mg/kg/day bismuth subsalicylate given orally, n = 10). After 15 days of treatment; behavioral tests, blood tests, and histopathology samples were taken. Results: A significant improvement was observed in autism-like behaviors in rats treated with bismuth. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), Interleukin-17 (IL-17), IL-6, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels decreased, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels increased in the bismuth group. Conclusion: This study showed that bismuth can be used in addition to other treatments for autism. However, further studies on the subject are needed.