Annagiulia Gramenzi

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This study looked at how feeding hemp oil to Martina Franca jacks (a breed of donkey) affected their semen quality and reproductive performance over 90 days. The results showed that sperm movement improved from 92.61% in the control group to 96.63% with hemp oil, and well-formed sperm increased from 96.58% to 98.85%. Additionally, while the semen volume dropped significantly, the quality of the sperm improved, indicating that hemp oil could be a beneficial supplement for boosting reproduction in donkeys. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and donkey breeders looking to improve reproductive health in their animals.

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This study looked at the composition of fats in the cell membranes of pets, specifically dogs and cats, to see how it relates to their health and lifespan. The researchers found differences in the fatty acid makeup between healthy pets and those with chronic digestive issues, indicating that analyzing these lipids could help understand and track animal health better. Understanding these differences can lead to earlier diagnosis of diseases and better nutrition strategies, which are crucial for improving the quality of life for pets. Who this helps: Pet owners and veterinarians.

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This study looked at how certain receptors related to the endocannabinoid system are distributed in the hooves of healthy horses compared to those with laminitis, a painful hoof condition. The researchers found that all three types of receptors (CB1R, CB2R, and GPR55) were present in healthy hooves, and their levels were higher in the hooves affected by laminitis. This matters because targeting these receptors with cannabinoid treatments may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in horses suffering from hoof diseases. Who this helps: This helps horses suffering from laminitis and their veterinarians.

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This study looked at specific receptors in the brains of horses that may play a role in how they experience pain, stress, and anxiety. Researchers found two important receptors, CB1R and CB2R, in the amygdala of horses, but not others like TRPV1 and PPARγ. This is important because it opens the door to using cannabinoids to help manage pain and anxiety in horses, potentially improving their welfare. Who this helps: This helps horses and their caregivers, including veterinarians and horse owners.

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This study looked at how three different types of dietary supplements—prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics—affect the gut health of dogs by simulating a dog's colon environment in a lab. The researchers found that each type of supplement changed gut activity in unique ways: for instance, the probiotic increased acid production in the colon, while the synbiotic produced beneficial metabolic changes. These findings are important because they suggest that these supplements can be tailored to support better digestion and gut health in dogs. Who this helps: This helps dog owners and veterinarians looking to improve canine digestive health.

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This study examined the presence of cannabinoid receptors in different cells of horse hooves, particularly in healthy horses and those suffering from laminitis, a painful hoof condition. Researchers found that certain receptors (CB2R and GPR55) were present in inflammatory cells in both healthy and affected hooves, while additional receptors (CB1R, CBR2, and GPR55) were found in other cell types. This research is important because it suggests new ways to develop treatments that could help manage inflammation and pain in horses with laminitis. Who this helps: This helps horses suffering from laminitis and their veterinarians.

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This study looked at two dietary supplements for dogs that are supposed to help with gut health problems: Microbiotal cane, which contains postbiotics and prebiotics, and NBF 1, a probiotic. The researchers found that Microbiotal cane quickly increased certain beneficial bacteria in dog gut samples within 6 hours, while NBF 1 took longer to show similar effects, with both supplements increasing good bacteria after 24 hours. These findings matter because they suggest these products could help improve gut health in dogs, which may lead to better overall well-being. Who this helps: Dog owners and veterinarians.

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This study looked at a probiotic called NBF 2 DSM 32264 and its effects on healthy Persian cats, specifically their body weight, body condition, and stool quality. Researchers found that while the probiotic didn't change the cats' weight or overall body condition, it did improve stool quality by decreasing moisture levels and improving scores for fecal appearance. Additionally, there was a noticeable increase in healthy bacteria and a decrease in harmful bacteria in their intestines. Who this helps: This helps cat owners and veterinarians looking for ways to improve the digestive health of Persian cats.

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This study examined how sarcopenia, which is the loss of muscle mass, affects the survival of patients with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) who are being treated with a drug called Sorafenib. Out of 328 patients analyzed, 48% in the training group and 50% in the validation group had sarcopenia. The findings showed that patients with sarcopenia had a lower chance of survival, and those with higher scores on a liver function measure (MELD > 9) also faced worse outcomes, leading to the creation of a scoring system called "SARCO-MELD" to predict survival based on these factors. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver cancer and their doctors by providing guidance on treatment outcomes based on muscle mass and liver function.

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This study focused on finding a better way to treat gastrointestinal diseases in animals without relying heavily on zinc oxide, which can cause issues like antibiotic resistance. The researchers found that using a mix of hydrolysable tannins and a lower dose of zinc oxide improved the healing and function of intestinal cells, particularly by enhancing tissue repair and strengthening the cell barrier. This is important because it offers a safer, more sustainable method for managing these diseases in animals. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and animal health professionals manage gastrointestinal diseases in pets and livestock.

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This study looked at the gut bacteria and fatty substances in the feces of cats with chronic gastrointestinal problems, known as chronic enteropathies (FCE), compared to healthy cats. It found that cats with FCE had a higher level of gut dysfunction and lower beneficial bacteria compared to healthy cats. Specifically, the gut health score of sick cats was significantly higher (1.3) than that of healthy cats (-2.3), indicating more problems in the gut, and certain fatty substances like cholesterol were elevated in sick cats, suggesting issues with fat processing. Who this helps: This research benefits veterinarians and pet owners by providing insights into the gut health of cats with chronic digestive issues.

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This study looked at the fatty acid composition in the red blood cell membranes of cats with various gastrointestinal issues, including food-responsive enteropathy (FRE), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and low-grade intestinal T-cell lymphoma (LGITL), and compared them to healthy cats. Researchers found that cats with these conditions had significantly higher levels of certain beneficial fats, like docosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, along with lower levels of linoleic acid. This is important because it helps to identify specific changes in fat metabolism in sick cats, which can improve our understanding of their conditions and potentially lead to better treatments. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and pet owners to better diagnose and manage gastrointestinal diseases in cats.

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This study looked at how a special health supplement affects the gut bacteria of sled dogs, which are often under stress from hard physical work. The findings showed that sled dogs receiving the supplement had fewer harmful bacteria and more beneficial bacteria compared to those that didn't get the supplement. Specifically, the supplement helped maintain a healthier balance of gut bacteria, which is important for the dogs’ overall health during intense activity. Who this helps: This helps sled dog teams and their owners ensure the dogs stay healthy and perform well.

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This study looked at the effects of homemade diets on the health of dogs, involving 167 dogs that were healthy or had health issues. After following a personalized homemade diet for about 14 months, 70% of healthy dogs showed better coat conditions, and 67% of dogs achieved weight loss goals; among the sick dogs, 95% with chronic gastrointestinal issues and 83% with skin problems reported improvements. This is important because it shows that well-planned homemade diets can significantly improve the health and quality of life for dogs with various conditions. Who this helps: This helps pet owners, veterinarians, and dog health advocates.

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This study looked at how certain dietary supplements, specifically prebiotics and probiotics, affect the gut bacteria in dogs. Researchers found that using these supplements together significantly changed the composition of gut bacteria for the better, enhancing the growth of beneficial bacteria and improving gut health over a 2-week period. This is important because it suggests that these supplements can lead to better digestion and immune function in dogs. Who this helps: Dog owners and veterinarians seeking to improve canine health.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of a treatment called Yttrium-90 transarterial radioembolization (Y-TARE) for patients with a type of liver cancer called intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). The researchers found that patients who had not received any prior liver treatments lived an average of 18 months after the procedure, while those who had previous treatments lived for about 14 months. Overall, the median survival time was 16 months, and the majority of patients saw positive responses in their tumors. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced liver cancer who have not received previous treatments.

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This study looked at specific receptors in the hip and knee joints of seven middle-aged dogs that didn't show clear signs of arthritis. Researchers found that these joints had receptors called CB1R, CB2R, and GPR55, which are linked to pain and inflammation. The results indicate that the endocannabinoid system could be a promising new target for treating joint problems in dogs. Who this helps: This helps dogs suffering from joint pain and their veterinarians aiming to improve treatment options.

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This study looked at specific receptors in the joints of horses to understand how they might be involved in joint inflammation and osteoarthritis. Researchers found that several receptors, including CB1, CB2, TRPV1, GPR55, and PPARα, were present in the joint tissues of the horses studied, indicating that they could play a role in joint health. This matters because targeting these receptors could lead to new treatments for joint inflammation, potentially improving the quality of life for horses suffering from conditions like arthritis. Who this helps: This helps horses with joint inflammation and their veterinarians.

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This study looked at the fatty acids in the membranes of sperm and red blood cells from 26 healthy male Martina Franca donkeys to see how they relate to sperm quality and fertility. Researchers found that a specific fatty acid, DPA, made up a large part of the sperm membrane but wasn’t present in red blood cells, and better sperm movement was linked to certain fatty acids like stearic acid and EPA. Understanding these fatty acids helps improve our knowledge of donkey fertility and could lead to better breeding practices. Who this helps: This benefits donkey breeders and veterinarians focused on improving reproductive health.

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This study highlights the case of a 54-year-old woman who was misdiagnosed with "monstrous obesity" after experiencing significant weight gain and bloating. Doctors later discovered a large tumor in her abdomen, measuring 60 x 45 cm and weighing 46 kg, which was a type of cancer. This situation shows the dangers of bias against overweight individuals, as it can lead to serious misdiagnoses and delayed treatment. Who this helps: Patients facing similar biases in healthcare.

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This study looked at how liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), has changed in Italy over the last 15 years by analyzing data from over 6,000 patients. It found that patients are getting older and more cases are linked to metabolic issues rather than viruses. In the recent years studied, patient survival rates improved, especially for those with viral HCC, likely due to better treatments like thermal ablation. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with liver cancer and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how well antibiotics and a dietary supplement (nutraceutical) worked for dogs with acute diarrhea. The researchers found that dogs treated with the supplement showed improvement in stool consistency and frequency by day 2, while those given antibiotics only saw improvement by days 3 and 4. This is important because using antibiotics can lead to resistance, so finding effective alternative treatments can help protect both pets and people from these issues. Who this helps: Dog owners and veterinarians.

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This study looked at the levels of certain substances in the blood of dogs with chronic gastrointestinal issues to see if they could help diagnose different types of these problems. Researchers found that specific compounds, 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and palmitoylethanolamine (PEA), were higher in dogs with chronic enteropathies compared to healthy dogs, indicating they might serve as useful markers for identifying these conditions. Understanding these levels is important because it could lead to quicker and less invasive diagnoses for dogs suffering from gastrointestinal diseases. Who this helps: This benefits dog owners and veterinarians by providing new tools for diagnosing gastrointestinal issues in dogs.

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This study looked at how the composition of waste in obese dogs changed after they lost weight on a high-fiber and high-protein diet. Researchers found that 13 compounds in their feces shifted after weight loss; specifically, substances related to bacterial metabolism decreased, while some beneficial compounds increased. These findings are important because they show that weight loss can lead to changes in the gut bacteria’s activity, which may play a role in obesity and health in dogs. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and dog owners looking to manage obesity in pets.

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This study looked at how to better simulate dog gut digestion and absorption in a lab model called M-SCIME™. By using digestive enzymes and mimicking the small intestine's absorption process, researchers found that the new model created a more accurate picture of how proteins are digested in dogs. They noticed that this improved model led to higher levels of healthy butyrate and better reflected real-life conditions in a dog’s gut microbiome. Who this helps: This benefits veterinarians and researchers working to improve gut health in dogs.

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This study looked at the types of fatty acids in the red blood cells of dogs with chronic intestinal inflammation (called chronic enteropathy) compared to healthy dogs. They found that dogs with this condition had higher levels of certain fatty acids like stearic and lower levels of others like palmitic. These findings suggest that measuring fatty acids in red blood cells could help assess gut health in dogs with this condition and possibly serve as a new way to track their health. Who this helps: This benefits dog owners and veterinarians by providing a potential new method to evaluate and manage chronic intestinal issues in dogs.

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This study examined how wealth levels in different regions of Italy affect the diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma or HCC). Researchers looked at over 4,100 patients and found that those from poorer areas were less likely to receive potentially curative treatments; only 28% of patients in the most deprived areas received these treatments compared to 51% in wealthier areas. Patients who moved from poor to wealthier regions were 1.11 times more likely to access effective treatments and had a lower chance of dying from HCC. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with liver cancer, especially those living in low-income regions.

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This study looked at how a specific diet combined with a nutraceutical product affected dogs suffering from Canine Atopic Dermatitis (CAD). Over 120 days, 32 dogs receiving this treatment saw significant improvements in their skin lesions and gut health, with a notable decrease in symptoms as measured by various scales (all showing results with a p-value of less than 0.001). This matters because it shows that the right diet and supplements can meaningfully help atopic dogs feel better and improve their skin condition. Who this helps: This helps dog owners and veterinarians caring for dogs with skin allergies.

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This study looked at how five different yeast-based supplements affect the gut bacteria in dogs and cats. Researchers found that two specific formulations, T1 and T5, significantly increased levels of important substances produced by gut bacteria: T1 boosted butyrate production, while T5 enhanced propionate levels. These results are important because they suggest that yeast-derived ingredients can improve gut health in pets by promoting beneficial bacteria. Who this helps: This helps pet owners and veterinarians looking for ways to enhance their animals' digestive health.

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This study looked at how the texture of tumors in a specific type of liver cancer, called intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, could help doctors predict which patients would respond best to a treatment called trans-arterial radioembolisation (TARE). Researchers analyzed CT scans from 55 patients before they received TARE and found that 56.6% showed a positive response after treatment. The study found that patients with tumors that had a more uniform appearance on the scans and absorbed more iodine contrast had better outcomes, with those having a favorable tumor texture living longer without disease progression—averaging 12.1 months compared to just 5.1 months for others. Who this helps: This helps patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma by identifying those who might benefit most from TARE.

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This study looked at how well a treatment called transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) works for older patients (70 years and up) compared to younger patients with liver cancer that can't be surgically removed. Researchers found that the chances of liver-related death were similar for both age groups: 73.8% for older patients and 69.4% for younger ones. This is important because it shows that TACE is just as safe and effective for elderly patients as it is for those under 70. Who this helps: This helps patients with liver cancer, especially those aged 70 and older.

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This study examined the fatty acids in the cell membranes of 68 healthy dogs of various ages and sizes to establish a baseline for what healthy lipid levels should look like. Researchers identified 10 key fatty acids and provided specific measurements for each, noting their connection to the dogs' body weight. This information is important because it helps veterinarians assess the metabolic and nutritional health of dogs, whether they are healthy or sick. Who this helps: This research benefits veterinarians and dog owners by providing valuable health insights for canine nutrition and disease management.

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This study examined how the gut bacteria of obese dogs changed after they lost weight on a high-fiber and high-protein diet. Researchers found that after weight loss, the diversity of bacteria increased, with the proportion of certain types of bacteria shifting: Firmicutes decreased from 92.3% to 78.2%, while Bacteroidetes rose from 1.4% to 10.1%. These changes are important because they suggest that weight loss not only helps dogs become healthier but also alters their gut health in ways similar to findings in humans. Who this helps: This benefits pet owners and veterinarians looking to improve the health of obese dogs.

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This study examined patients with liver disease (cirrhosis) who experienced acute gastrointestinal bleeding and found that a longer corrected QT interval (QTc) on their heart tests was linked to a higher risk of dying within six weeks. Researchers analyzed data from 474 patients and created a scoring system called MELDNa-AGIB, which combines QTc and other factors to predict mortality risk; for instance, 81% of patients with the highest risk score of 25 or more died within six weeks, compared to just 6.3% of those with a score of 4 or lower. This matters because it helps healthcare providers identify patients in critical need of intervention before they reach a life-threatening situation. Who this helps: This benefits patients with cirrhosis and gastrointestinal bleeding, as well as their doctors.

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This study looked at specific types of beneficial bacteria called Lactobacillus found in dog stools to see if they could help control intestinal infections in dogs. Out of 14 strains tested, five were able to survive harsh digestive conditions, with one strain, Lactobacillus reuteri AI, showing the best potential as a probiotic. This strain could survive freeze-drying and still be effective in improving dog health by fighting harmful bacteria in their guts. Who this helps: This benefits dog owners looking for natural ways to support their pets' gut health.

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This study looked at a special type of imaging called computed tomography-colonography to see how well it detects deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) in women's intestines and urinary tracts before surgery. Out of 73 women examined, the method correctly identified DIE in the rectosigmoid area 82.3% of the time, but was less accurate for urinary tract involvement, detecting it correctly 45.9% of the time. This matters because accurate preoperative assessments can help plan better surgeries for women suffering from endometriosis. Who this helps: This helps women with deep infiltrating endometriosis and their doctors.

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This study looked at the costs and benefits of using a treatment called trans-arterial radioembolization (TARE) for patients with intermediate to advanced liver cancer, specifically comparing it to the standard chemotherapy drug sorafenib. Researchers found that if TARE usage increased over the next five years, the Italian healthcare system could save about 7 million Euros. This indicates that TARE could be a more cost-effective option for treating these patients without sacrificing their care. Who this helps: This benefits patients with intermediate-advanced liver cancer and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined how the HEART score, which ranges from 0 to 10, can help decide if patients with chest pain in the emergency room can be sent home safely based on their risk. Researchers looked at 1,597 patients and found that none of the 512 patients with a low HEART score (0-3) had any major heart issues within 180 days, confirming that patients with this low score can be discharged safely. This is important because it can reduce unnecessary hospital stays for patients who are at low risk for serious problems. Who this helps: This helps patients with chest pain who are at low risk and may not need to stay in the hospital.

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This study looked at how different treatments work for patients with intermediate-stage liver cancer, specifically comparing curative therapies to the standard treatment called transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). Researchers found that patients receiving curative treatments lived an average of 45 months, compared to 30 months for those who received TACE, and only 10 months for those receiving the least comprehensive care. These findings highlight the importance of choosing the most effective treatment options available, as curative therapies significantly improve survival rates. Who this helps: This benefits patients with intermediate-stage liver cancer by guiding treatment decisions for better outcomes.

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This study looked at a treatment called Yttrium-90 microsphere radioembolization (Y-TARE) for patients with a type of liver cancer known as unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, which cannot be surgically removed. Researchers found that patients who received Y-TARE had a median survival of up to 22 months, compared to only 8 to 12 months without treatment. This is important because it offers a potential new option for patients who don't qualify for surgery and need better outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

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This study looked at the use of a treatment called Yttrium-90 radioembolization (90Y-TARE) for patients with a type of cancer called intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) that cannot be surgically removed. Researchers found that the average survival time after this treatment was 17.9 months, with patients who had not received prior treatments surviving much longer (52 months) compared to those who had (16 months). This treatment is safe and could help improve survival for patients, especially those receiving it for the first time. Who this helps: This benefits patients with unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

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This paper explores the history and benefits of probiotics, which are live microorganisms that promote health. It highlights that early research identified probiotics like lactobacilli found in yogurt as beneficial for digestion and longevity. Today, fecal transplants are used effectively to treat infections like Clostridium difficile, outperforming traditional treatments like vancomycin in preventing recurrences. Who this helps: This helps patients with gut-related illnesses, particularly those suffering from infections.

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This study looked at how to better predict which patients with liver disease might drop off the waiting list for a liver transplant. Researchers found that five key factors—ascites, sodium levels, bilirubin levels, albumin levels, and kidney function—helped create a new scoring system called LIRER that is significantly more accurate than the existing models. The LIRER score showed a strong ability to identify patients at risk of dropping out, with a score over 15.9 indicating a good chance of survival after transplantation. Who this helps: This benefits patients with liver disease who are waiting for a transplant, as well as their doctors in managing their care.

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This study compares two treatments for patients with advanced liver cancer: sorafenib and Yttrium-90 radioembolization (TARE). Researchers found that both treatments led to similar survival times, with patients on sorafenib living a median of 14.4 months and those receiving TARE living 13.2 months. This is important because it shows that both options are viable for patients with advanced liver cancer while also noting that TARE may sometimes allow for liver transplantation afterwards. Who this helps: Patients with intermediate-advanced liver cancer.

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This study looked at how well blood tests for α-fetoprotein (AFP) can help detect liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, or HCC) in patients with liver disease (cirrhosis). Researchers found that changes in AFP levels could improve early detection of HCC; specifically, more than 80% of cancers were identified early. The best AFP threshold for spotting cancer was found to be 10 ng/ml, with a sensitivity of about 66% and a negative predictive value (meaning it correctly predicted no cancer in healthy patients) of 86% when combined with other factors. Who this helps: This benefits patients with cirrhosis, allowing for earlier cancer detection and better outcomes.

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This research looked at ways to quickly identify bacterial infections and liver cancer in people with cirrhosis, a serious liver condition. The study explored existing and new markers, such as C-reactive protein and procalcitonin, to spot infections, and various biomarkers, like alpha-fetoprotein, to improve the detection of liver cancer. Finding these markers is important because early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with cirrhosis and their doctors.

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This study looked at how recurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections after liver transplants are treated and whether new antiviral drugs might help. It found that while traditional treatments only help 30%-45% of patients and can cause bad side effects, emerging direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have shown some promise but also come with significant risks. It's important to conduct larger, more rigorous studies to determine if these new drugs are safe and effective for liver transplant patients. Who this helps: This research is important for liver transplant patients dealing with hepatitis C.