Research In Veterinary Science[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Canine distemper virus in sympatric carnivores of eastern Spain: A potential risk for reintroduction programs.
Suita F, Lizana V, Fuentes ML … +3 more , da Silva JPT, López-Ramon J, Cardells J
Res Vet Sci · 2026 May · PMID 42309019 · Publisher ↗
Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a highly infectious morbillivirus posing a significant threat to global carnivore biodiversity. While domestic dogs are primary reservoirs, CDV circulates among various free-ranging wildli...
Canine distemper virus (CDV) is a highly infectious morbillivirus posing a significant threat to global carnivore biodiversity. While domestic dogs are primary reservoirs, CDV circulates among various free-ranging wildlife populations, suggesting complex maintenance mechanisms. We assessed CDV frequency of infection via RT-qPCR and serology in 106 free-ranging wild carnivores (families Canidae, Mustelidae, and Viverridae) collected opportunistically in the Valencian Community, Spain, between 2022 and 2025. A total of 212 tissue samples-comprising adult lung (n = 102) and brain (n = 104) tissues, along with samples from two fetuses (n = 6), were screened for viral RNA, and 84 individuals were tested for antibodies. The overall molecular frequency of infection was 11.3% (n = 12), with most positives identified in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes). The reported Ct values (10.16-34.79) reflected a broad spectrum of viral loads; specifically, the low mean value (22.76) and high-load cases (Ct < 20) suggested active or recent infections, while higher Ct values indicated late-stage or subclinical cases. Seropositivity was observed in 9.5% (8/84) of the animals. Notably, viral RNA was detected in the brain of a pregnant common genet (Genetta genetta), though fetuses and placental tissues remained negative. These findings confirm ongoing CDV circulation in eastern Spain and underscore the necessity of long-term surveillance in regions considered for future conservation initiatives, such as the reintroduction of the endangered Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus).
Prevalence of POMC allele associated with obesity in feline population in Vietnam.
Vu TP, Le TQ, Truong TTT … +4 more , Duong CN, Dang HTN, Phan HN, Bui APN
Res Vet Sci · 2026 May · PMID 42288060 · Publisher ↗
Feline obesity is an increasingly important health problem influenced by both genetic predisposition and husbandry practices. This study investigated the prevalence and phenotypic relevance of the feline proopiomelanocor...
Feline obesity is an increasingly important health problem influenced by both genetic predisposition and husbandry practices. This study investigated the prevalence and phenotypic relevance of the feline proopiomelanocortin (POMC) c.28G > C (p.Gly10Arg) variant in a Vietnamese cat population and evaluated environmental factors associated with obesity. A total of 63 clinically healthy cats were classified as normal weight (body condition score [BCS] 5-6/9; n = 40) or obese (BCS ≥7/9; n = 23). Genotyping was performed using a newly developed PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism assay and validated by Sanger sequencing. Ventral subcutaneous adipose tissue (VSAT) thickness was measured ultrasonographically as an objective indicator of adiposity. Genotyping revealed a high prevalence of the risk-associated C allele, with 45/63 cats (71.4%) carrying the GC genotype and 18/63 (28.6%) carrying the CC genotype, whereas the GG genotype was not detected, giving a Callele frequency of 64.3%. Obese cats had significantly greater body weight and VSAT thickness than normal-weight cats. Neuter status and ad libitum feeding were significantly associated with obesity, whereas diet type, housing, exercise frequency, and begging behavior were not. Although genotype distribution did not differ significantly between normal and obese cohorts, obese CC cats showed significantly greater VSAT thickness than obese GC cats, indicating an allele-dosage effect on adiposity. These findings suggest that the POMC c.28G > C variant is a useful risk-informative marker and that combining genetic screening with objective fat assessment may support earlier identification and prevention of feline obesity in Vietnam under routine laboratory conditions and guide personalized management strategies in practice.
Companion animal bereavement in veterinary professionals: Assessment with the Pet Bereavement Questionnaire-Redux and comparison with the general population.
Pilar MR, Juan MR, Javier LC
Res Vet Sci · 2026 May · PMID 42288059 · Publisher ↗
Companion animal bereavement is a painful experience following the loss of a pet. This event is also relevant in the veterinary profession, where close relationships with patients and their own animals are common. The ai...
Companion animal bereavement is a painful experience following the loss of a pet. This event is also relevant in the veterinary profession, where close relationships with patients and their own animals are common. The aim of this study was to validate a brief questionnaire to assess grief among veterinary professionals and to compare their responses with those of the general population. The Pet Bereavement Questionnaire-Redux (PBQ-R) showed evidence of concurrent validity with the intensity of companion animal bereavement. The proportion of participants classified as positive by the PBQ-R was significantly lower among veterinary professionals (13.0%) than in the general population (28.8%). In addition, veterinarians exhibited lower mean scores than the general population across all five indicators of grief intensity. Veterinary professionals were also more likely to report having ways to express their grief, feeling understood by their social environment, perceiving support, and accepting the death of their companion animal. The percentages of participants reporting feeling supported or experiencing family conflicts related to the pet's death were similar between veterinarians and other professionals. Although veterinarians showed a more adaptive overall response to pet loss, a substantial minority reported unmet needs: 25% did not feel supported, 30% felt misunderstood, and 30% were unable to express their grief naturally. These findings highlight the importance of tailoring end-of-life and bereavement support to individuals' professional backgrounds and of providing veterinarians with training and resources to manage not only patient loss but also grief related to their own animals.
Skull morphometry and sexual dimorphism in the Kyrgyz horse: A multivariate size-corrected analysis.
Arı HH, Duro S, Alpak H … +6 more , Tulobaev A, Ceylan N, Ashyk A, Salykov R, Djordjevic M, Gündemir O
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 42285022 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to evaluate sexual dimorphism in Kyrgyz horse skulls by separating size and shape components using Mosimann log-shape ratios, based on 18 linear cranial measurements recorded from 39 specimens. Raw linea...
This study aimed to evaluate sexual dimorphism in Kyrgyz horse skulls by separating size and shape components using Mosimann log-shape ratios, based on 18 linear cranial measurements recorded from 39 specimens. Raw linear data were analyzed alongside size-corrected Mosimann log-shape ratios to distinguish overall size from size-independent shape. Males showed larger raw means than females for all 18 variables, and 14 measurements remained significant after false-discovery-rate correction. The strongest raw differences involved skull length to nasale, total skull length, nasal length, breadth between temporomandibular joint regions, and hard palate length. Geometric mean size was also significantly greater in males, confirming strong overall cranial size dimorphism. Multivariate analysis supported the same pattern: MANOVA showed a significant sex effect, and raw PCA was dominated by PC1, which explained 53.57% of variance and functioned as an overall size axis separating the sexes. In contrast, no size-corrected variable and no shape PCA score remained significant after FDR adjustment. Residual size-independent variation was concentrated mainly in diastema length, occipital squama height, foramen magnum dimensions, and nasal length, but these patterns were not strongly sex-structured. Correlation analysis further showed strong integration among rostrocaudal facial measurements and midfacial breadth variables. Overall, the findings indicate that sexual dimorphism in Kyrgyz horse skulls is pronounced in absolute size but weak in size-independent proportions, meaning that male skulls are largely scaled-up versions of female skulls rather than markedly different cranial shapes.
Quercetin alleviates Streptococcus agalactiae-induced mastitis in mice by inhibiting the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway and ferroptosis.
Jia Y, Sun Q, Wu T … +7 more , Xie Y, Yu H, Jiang M, Li X, Yang Z, Zhou E, Wang J
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 42250334 · Publisher ↗
Mastitis is the most common dairy disease, impairing milk quality and yield. Quercetin (QUE), a natural compound with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities, lacks a clear mechanism against mastitis...
Mastitis is the most common dairy disease, impairing milk quality and yield. Quercetin (QUE), a natural compound with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities, lacks a clear mechanism against mastitis. This study evaluated QUE in a mouse model of Streptococcus agalactiae (commonly known as Group B Streptococcus (GBS))-induced mastitis. Mice (n = 25) were randomized into five groups (n = 5/group): control, GBS model, and QUE (25, 50, 100 mg/kg). QUE or vehicle was administered intraperitoneally 24 h before mammary duct injection of GBS. Pathohistological analysis demonstrated that QUE inhibited GBS-induced histopathological damage and myeloperoxidase activity in mouse mammary tissue (p < 0.01). Immunofluorescence experiments revealed that QUE upregulated the tight junction proteins Occludin and tight junction protein 1, thereby maintaining the integrity of the mammary blood-milk barrier. The results of qPCR and ELISA demonstrated that QUE was effective in reducing the gene expression and content of pro-inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α (p < 0.01). Western blotting and qPCR demonstrated that QUE impeded the NF-κB pathway and diminished the activity of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Concurrently, QUE diminished the iron content of mouse mammary tissues induced by GBS, repressed TfR and ACSL4 protein expression, and FTH1, PTGS2, NCOA4 gene transcript levels, while elevating SLC7A11 and GPX4 protein expression (p < 0.01). These findings indicated that QUE mitigated GBS-induced mammary gland injury in mice by inhibiting the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway and ferroptosis. This study elucidated the potential mechanism of QUE on GBS-induced mastitis and enhanced the theoretical foundation for future prevention and treatment of mastitis.
Evolutionary dynamics of porcine parvovirus type 1 reveal antigenic divergence with implications for vaccine coverage.
de Sá PAF, Luvison NA, Flores RS … +3 more , Lunge VR, Silva SAE, Streck AF
Res Vet Sci · 2026 May · PMID 42242133 · Publisher ↗
Porcine parvovirus type 1 (PPV1) is globally recognized as the etiological agent responsible for one of the main causes of reproductive failure in swine herds, known by the acronym SMEDI. Although it has been identified...
Porcine parvovirus type 1 (PPV1) is globally recognized as the etiological agent responsible for one of the main causes of reproductive failure in swine herds, known by the acronym SMEDI. Although it has been identified since the mid-1960s, PPV1 continues to be isolated worldwide, leading to significant financial losses. Vaccination remains the primary preventive measure against the virus. However, the emergence of new variants globally raises concerns regarding the efficacy of currently available vaccines. This study analyzed 200 complete VP2 gene sequences (1963-2021) using phylogenetics, protein modeling, epitope prediction, and molecular docking simulations. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a total of five lineages. Two of these lineages did not contain vaccine reference variants. One lineage was predominantly composed of European strains, whereas another showed a mixed Eurasian distribution. Predictions and simulations identified structural differences at several protein positions among the five phylogenetic groups and the three reference vaccine strains (NADL-2, 27a, and PPV014), including regions overlapping predicted epitopes and sites under positive selection. These findings indicate antigenic divergence between circulating and vaccine reference strains and should be interpreted as computational, hypothesis-generating evidence that requires experimental validation by cross-neutralization and challenge studies.
Concerns regarding reference standard selection in the evaluation of saliva-based LFA for post-mortem rabies diagnosis.
Saito N
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42235323 · Publisher ↗
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Zebrafish xenografts reveal line-specific patterns of growth, survival, and metastases in canine mammary cell lines: CMT-U27, CMT-U131, and CMT-U229.
Chmielewska-Krzesińska M, Dybalska-Szczepanek J
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42229243 · Publisher ↗
Canine mammary tumours (CMTs) are the most common malignancies in female dogs and represent a valuable comparative model for human breast cancer. This study aimed to characterise the molecular and functional profiles of...
Canine mammary tumours (CMTs) are the most common malignancies in female dogs and represent a valuable comparative model for human breast cancer. This study aimed to characterise the molecular and functional profiles of three CMT cell lines: CMT-U27, CMT-U131 and CMT-U229, using a zebrafish xenograft model. Gene ex-pression analysis targeted proliferation markers (MKI67, CCNB1, MYBL2, BIRC5, AURKA), receptor signalling (ESR1, PGR, AR, ERBB2, GRB7, EGFR), apoptosis and survival (BCL2, BAG1), and angiogenesis (VEGFA). Zebrafish larvae were xenotransplanted with tumour cells into either the Perivitelline Space or the Duct of Cuvier to assess larval survival and metastatic spread. The CMT-U27 displayed the most aggressive phenotype, with high expression of proliferation-associated genes and the highest metastatic frequency (60%). CMT-U229 exhibited moderate proliferation, accompanied by overexpression of VEGFA. In contrast, CMT-U131 exhibited lower proliferation, correlating with reduced survival in circulation and limited metastasis (<20%). This study provides the first comprehensive molecular characterisation of CMT cell lines in a zebrafish xenograft model. The findings underline the distinct biological profiles of these lines and demonstrate the utility of this platform for testing targeted therapies in veterinary oncology with translational relevance to human breast cancer.
Feline heartworm disease in endemic settings: an integrated diagnostic approach.
Nonnis F, Corda A, Zeinoun P … +17 more , Cavallo L, Corda F, Cubeddu F, Rocca S, Parpaglia MLP, Mollica A, Amatori MA, Pentcheva P, Careddu GM, Arru F, Gentile C, Seu E, Pede A, Tamponi C, Scala A, Gabrielli S, Varcasia A
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42225012 · Publisher ↗
Feline heartworm disease, caused by Dirofilaria immitis, is an emerging concern in endemic regions, although its epidemiology remains poorly defined due to diagnostic limitations. In Italy, available data on feline D. im...
Feline heartworm disease, caused by Dirofilaria immitis, is an emerging concern in endemic regions, although its epidemiology remains poorly defined due to diagnostic limitations. In Italy, available data on feline D. immitis infection are limited and largely based on serological investigations. The aim of the present study was to provide an epidemiological assessment of infection in cats across Sardinia, a region where canine dirofilariosis is endemic. A total of 141 cats were evaluated using a multimodal diagnostic approach including echocardiography, antigen detection, and the modified Knott's test. In addition, antibody detection by in-house ELISA and PCR targeting the 16S rRNA gene of endosymbiont Wolbachia pipientis were performed to deeply investigate the infection features. All cats underwent physical examination and clinical findings were recorded. Evidence of D. immitis infection was detected in 2.8% of cats by echocardiography, corresponding to the overall prevalence observed in the study, and in 2.1% by antigen detection, while microfilariae of D. immitis were detected in 0.7% of cats. Antibodies to Dirofilaria spp. were found in 14.9% of animals, indicating broader exposure. Wolbachia DNA was identified in 1.4% of samples. A significant association was observed between D. immitis positivity and the presence of compatible clinical signs such as coughing, dyspnea, and vomiting (P = 0.016). These findings confirm the presence of feline heartworm infection in Sardinia, highlighting the diagnostic complexity of the disease and the importance of prevention in endemic areas, given the severity of this parasitosis in cats and the current lack of an effective therapy.
Transplacental (vertical) transmission of Orf virus in mice (Mus musculus).
Wen Y, Shakoor A, Munir F … +6 more , Niyazbekova Z, Zhao X, Yao J, Jiang Y, Gao X, Ma W
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42214274 · Publisher ↗
Contagious ecthyma, caused by Orf virus (Parapoxvirus), is enzootic in sheep and goats across Asia, Africa, and other regions of the world. Due to the self-limiting nature of the disease, it has been neglected for decade...
Contagious ecthyma, caused by Orf virus (Parapoxvirus), is enzootic in sheep and goats across Asia, Africa, and other regions of the world. Due to the self-limiting nature of the disease, it has been neglected for decades, causing huge economic losses to sheep and goat farming industries. Young animals are most widely affected by this disease. Several outbreaks of Orf virus disease have been reported in previous years in many provinces of China. By using the specific pathogen-free mice (C57BL/6), molecular detection (targeting the conserved region of the viral B2L gene), histopathological evaluation, and antigen localization using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence techniques, this study provides evidence of Orf virus detection in maternal-fetal interface tissues and fetuses that clearly depicts the possibility of transplacental transmission of Orf virus. The viral load quantification indicated the highest log copy number in maternal blood (1.1867) and placenta (1.1867), followed by amniotic fluid (0.8776), and fetal body mass (0.6146). The eosinophilic Orf viral inclusion bodies and immunostaining for Orf virus antigens were detected in the placenta and fetal tissues. Statistically, a significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed between positive and negative control groups. These findings suggest that the vertical transmission of Orf virus is possible in susceptible animals, and understanding this route might be promising in the management of the disease.
Assessment of insulin sensitivity and blood pepsinogen values in dairy herds with high risk for displaced abomasum.
Hirakawa-Ueno K, Makino K, Fukumori R … +4 more , Tharwat M, Chisato K, Kayasaki S, Oikawa S
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42214273 · Publisher ↗
This study evaluated insulin sensitivity and serum pepsinogen in dairy cows from herds with high and low risk for displaced abomasum (DA) across different lactation stages. Blood samples and body condition scores (BCS) w...
This study evaluated insulin sensitivity and serum pepsinogen in dairy cows from herds with high and low risk for displaced abomasum (DA) across different lactation stages. Blood samples and body condition scores (BCS) were collected from 235 clinically healthy cows on five farms in Hokkaido, Japan, including two high-DA farms (≥4%) and three DA-free farms. Cows from high-DA farms consistently exhibited lower values of the revised quantitative insulin sensitivity check index and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index, along with higher values of homeostatic model assessment, indicating reduced insulin sensitivity. These cows also had higher BCS and elevated circulating insulin concentrations, particularly during the dry period and late lactation. In contrast, serum pepsinogen values remained within the normal range and did not differ significantly between groups, suggesting no apparent abomasal mucosal damage. These findings indicate that cows in the high-DA farms experience a prolonged negative energy balance from early lactation to mid lactation, which may contribute to persistent insulin resistance and increased susceptibility to DA. The results may highlight the importance of metabolic management, rather than abomasal pathogenesis, in preventing DA in high-risk farms.
Evaluation of doppler indexes of the lateral palmar digital artery in lame sport horses.
de Chiara M, De Matteis A, Del Prete C … +6 more , Costanza D, Montano C, Auletta L, Marinelli VG, Buono F, Pasolini MP
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42208148 · Publisher ↗
Although lateral palmar digital artery (LPDA) flow velocity does not differ between forelimbs, horses with lameness typically reduce loading of the affected limb during the weight-bearing phase. This study aimed to asses...
Although lateral palmar digital artery (LPDA) flow velocity does not differ between forelimbs, horses with lameness typically reduce loading of the affected limb during the weight-bearing phase. This study aimed to assess whether Pulsed-Wave (PW) Doppler indices of the (LPDA) blood flow differ between the two forelimbs in horses with unilateral forelimb lameness, and whether these differences correlate with lameness severity. Twenty-seven lame and 15 healthy horses were enrolled. All Doppler ultrasonographic examinations were performed by a single operator, blinded to both the presence or absence of lameness and its location, with horses non-sedated and standing squarely. Peak systolic velocity (PSV), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), and resistive index (RI) of the LPDA in both front limbs were acquired. No significative differences were found between the EDV and RI in the lame group and the sound group. PSV was higher (P = 0.024) in lame group (32.9-123.5 cm/s) compared to the sound group (17.4-69.3 cm/s). Furthermore, considering the differences (Δ) between the lame and sound limbs, ΔPSV was significantly higher (P = 0.002) in lame horses (15.3 cm/s; range 3.7-78.3 cm/s) compared to sound horses (2.1 cm/s; range 0.53-7.4 cm/s). No correlation between Doppler indexes and the degree of lameness was found. Reduced load on affected limbs may increase PSV values in lame limbs in most, though not all horses, thereby widening the difference between the PSV of lame and sound limbs. However, PSV values do not appear to reliably reflect lameness severity. Further research could identify additional factors influencing LPDA, beyond reduced weight bearing.
Beyond companionship: Current practices and future perspectives in antimicrobial resistance surveillance among companion animals.
Scarpellini R, Piva S
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42202634 · Publisher ↗
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest global health threats of our century. While extensive efforts have been made to monitor AMR in food-producing animals, the role of companion animals (dogs and cats) in...
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest global health threats of our century. While extensive efforts have been made to monitor AMR in food-producing animals, the role of companion animals (dogs and cats) in its emergence and spread has been underestimated. This narrative review describes the current situation of AMR surveillance in companion animals and the role of microbiology laboratories. We outlined key factors impacting the contribution of pets to AMR epidemiology, including their increasing presence in households, close physical proximity to humans, frequent antimicrobial exposure, and the demonstrated bidirectional exchange of resistant bacteria and genes. Evidence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens of public health concern carried and transmitted by pets is summarized. Surveillance is essential to identify trends, detect emerging resistance, and support stewardship and infection-control measures. However, national and international AMR surveillance systems have only recently begun integrating companion animals. At the setting-level, surveillance programs are uncommon, limited by resource constraints, lack of harmonized guidelines, and dependence on external laboratories. We highlighted with several examples of how microbiological surveillance (active and passive) can provide valuable data. Laboratories play a critical role through accurate diagnostics, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, strain typing, and use of advanced technologies. To effectively address AMR within a One Health (OH) framework, companion animals must be fully included in surveillance systems. Methodological standardization, optimization of laboratory capacity, and integration of surveillance findings into clinical practice are essential.
Development and validation of PCR-RFLP assays for genotyping PRNP and PRND polymorphisms in New Zealand rabbits in Vietnam.
Bui APN, Thong LQ, Duong CN … +2 more , Van Quang T, Giao NDM
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42202633 · Publisher ↗
Genetic variation within the prion gene cluster (PRNP-PRND) has been proposed as a contributing factor to the prion-disease biology of rabbits, motivating the development of scalable genotyping tools for population scree...
Genetic variation within the prion gene cluster (PRNP-PRND) has been proposed as a contributing factor to the prion-disease biology of rabbits, motivating the development of scalable genotyping tools for population screening and downstream genotype-phenotype studies. Here, we developed and validated PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assays to genotype one PRNP variant (c.234C > T) and two PRND variants (c.525G > C and c.579 A > G) in New Zealand rabbits from Vietnam. Blood samples were collected from 40 rabbits originating from a single commercial farm maintained under uniform husbandry conditions. Genotypes inferred by PCR-RFLP were confirmed by Sanger sequencing, which yielded high-quality chromatograms and unambiguous discrimination of homozygous versus heterozygous states. Across the cohort, the reference homozygote predominated at all three loci, and alternative alleles were detected only in heterozygous form, specifically, PRNP c.234C > T, 36/40 CC and 4/40 CT (q(T) = 0.050); PRND c.525G > C, 37/40 GG and 3/40 GC (q(C) = 0.0375); and PRND c.579 A > G, 35/40 AA and 5/40 AG (q(G) = 0.0625). Hardy-Weinberg testing indicated no significant deviation from equilibrium for any locus (all p > 0.05). In addition, chromatogram review identified an extra variant, c.637G > A, observed as a heterozygous G/A call (IUPAC "R"), highlighting the utility of sequence confirmation for uncovering additional polymorphisms within the amplified regions. Collectively, these validated PCR-RFLP assays provide a low-cost framework for PRNP/PRND genotyping in rabbits and establish baseline allele-frequency estimates in a Vietnamese rabbit farm population, supporting expanded surveillance and future efforts to identify alternative-homozygous individuals for phenotypic assessment.
The first detection of infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) genogroup U in western Europe in the first IHNV outbreak in Finland.
Kantala T, Cuenca A, Koski P … +4 more , Viljamaa-Dirks S, Kuukka-Anttila H, Olesen NJ, Gadd T
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42191407 · Publisher ↗
Infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) was detected for the first time in Finland in November 2017. The virus was isolated from rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) from a sea-cage farm in the Gulf of Bothnia. Sam...
Infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) was detected for the first time in Finland in November 2017. The virus was isolated from rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) from a sea-cage farm in the Gulf of Bothnia. Sampling was carried out as part of a routine risk-based surveillance program. During inspections based on epidemiological investigations, five other IHNV-positive rainbow trout establishments were detected in 2017-2018. No symptoms indicative of IHN were reported, and only a few macroscopic and histopathological findings were recorded. To assess the pathogenicity of the Finnish isolates, experimental trials were performed using an isolate from the index case in November 2017 and one from a positive case in January 2018. A significant difference in the survival rate was found between rainbow trout exposed to the two isolates, with the isolate from 2018 having higher virulence. Similarly, the two isolates displayed genetic heterogeneity, particularly in their G-gene sequence. According to phylogenetic analysis, the Finnish isolates belonged to IHNV genotype U. Based on N (nucleocapsid) gene sequence analysis, the isolates were closely related to either Russian IHNV isolates from 2000 to 2002 or older isolates from the coast of Washington and British Columbia. This is the first report of IHNV genotype U in Europe west of Russia.
Eugenol enhances the in vitro maturation of dromedary camel oocytes.
Soliman SS, Ali NI, Abd El-Razik KA … +2 more , Lattif RAA, Kamel AM
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42191406 · Publisher ↗
During in vitro embryo production, oxidative stress can compromise oocyte competence and subsequent embryo development. Phenolic antioxidants derived from plants, including eugenol (EG), represent a promising strategy to...
During in vitro embryo production, oxidative stress can compromise oocyte competence and subsequent embryo development. Phenolic antioxidants derived from plants, including eugenol (EG), represent a promising strategy to reduce the detrimental effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and improve embryo development outcome. This study investigated the concentration-dependent effects of EG on the in vitro maturation (IVM) of dromedary camel cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). COCs were cultured in IVM medium containing 0 (control), 10, 20, 40, and 80 μM EG. Supplementation with 10 or 20 μM EG significantly increased oocyte maturation rates compared with control, whereas supplementation with 40 or 80 μM EG provided no additional benefit. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that all EG-treated groups exhibited a significant increase in lipid content and mitochondrial activity. However, the effect was significantly greater at 10 and 20 μM. Assessment of the spent IVM media showed that superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels were significantly increased at 20 μM EG, while malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were reduced at 10 and 20 μM relative to the control. Additionally, cumulus cells recovered from oocytes matured with 10 and 20 μM EG displayed increased transcript levels of BCL2, CAT, IGF1, and SOD1 genes. Collectively, these findings indicate that EG at 10 and 20 μM may enhance IVM of camel oocytes by promoting nuclear maturation, cumulus expansion, mitochondrial activity, and lipid accumulation, accompanied by increased transcript levels of BCL2, CAT, IGF1, and SOD1.
Acute effects of Cold Atmospheric Plasma on bottlenose dolphin skin fibroblasts: Implications for wound healing in cetaceans.
Gonella A, Zampieri L, Finos L … +7 more , Zuin M, Perazzi A, Covello G, Giacomello M, Centelleghe C, Martines E, Peruffo A
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42172802 · Publisher ↗
Skin lesions are common in cetaceans and are challenging to treat due to environmental exposure and difficulties in administering therapies. Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) is a non-invasive approach that may promote wound...
Skin lesions are common in cetaceans and are challenging to treat due to environmental exposure and difficulties in administering therapies. Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) is a non-invasive approach that may promote wound healing and reduce microbial infections through the generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Dermal fibroblasts play a central role in tissue repair, particularly in extracellular matrix production and wound contraction, making them key targets to evaluate CAP's therapeutic potential. In this study, a dermal fibroblasts cell line from bottlenose dolphins was exposed to short exposure (1, 2, 5 min) and long exposure (10 min) and analyzed at 0, 4, and 8 h post-treatment. Cell viability and cell cycle dynamics were assessed using MTT assays and high-content imaging. High-content imaging was employed to quantitatively evaluate cell cycle distribution and nuclear morphology through automated image analysis. Short CAP exposure enhanced cell cycle progression, increasing the proportion of cells in S and G2/M phases, whereas prolonged exposure induced early cell cycle alterations and led to nuclear collapse. These results indicate that CAP effects on fibroblasts are time-dependent with short exposures promoting early pro-survival and cell cycle-related responses, and longer exposures inducing cytotoxicity. Further studies are required to determine whether these early responses translate into sustained proliferative or regenerative effects and to optimize CAP protocols for potential therapeutic applications in cetacean skin repair.
Further evaluations on the use of body condition score as target selective treatment criterion to control subclinical gastrointestinal nematode infections on dairy sheep.
Scala A, Tamponi C, Cavallo L … +5 more , Zeinoun P, Nonnis F, Carta A, Scala M, Varcasia A
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42172801 · Publisher ↗
Targeted selective treatments (TST) represent a key strategy to delay the development of anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) of sheep. The Body Condition Score (BCS) is a well-established criterio...
Targeted selective treatments (TST) represent a key strategy to delay the development of anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) of sheep. The Body Condition Score (BCS) is a well-established criterion for implementing TST in natural infection by non-hematophagous nematodes but the optimal thresholds for different animal categories and production systems remain poorly defined. This study aims to evaluate BCS as a practical TST indicator in Sarda sheep naturally infected with non-bloodsucking nematodes species, by assessing its relationship with fecal egg count (FEC) across reproductive stages and in replacement ewe lambs. A total of 2162 sheep were enrolled and divided into four groups: G1-G3 included ewes at different physiological stages, while G4 comprised replacement ewe lambs. Fecal samples were collected for FEC analysis and BCS was recorded for each animal. GIN prevalence ranged from 88.5% in ewes at 2-3 months of pregnancy to 99.8% in replacement ewe lambs, with the highest mean FEC observed in replacement ewe lambs (524.6 EPG). In all groups, a negative correlation (p < 0.001) was observed between BCS and EPG classes. The results obtained suggest that, in Sarda sheep, the TST thresholds based on BCS could be set at ≤2.75 for adult ewes during lactation or early pregnancy and at ≤3.00 for replacement ewe lambs. No consistent threshold could be established for ewes in late pregnancy.
Metabolic and urinary profiles in normal-weight, overweight and obese dogs: clinical response to an individualised weight loss programme.
Loste A, Borobia M, García A … +2 more , Escobar L, Navarro L
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Aug · PMID 42166942 · Publisher ↗
Canine overweight and obesity mirrors human trends, emphasizing a One Health perspective. This prospective study evaluated haematological, biochemical and urinary parameters, alongside systolic blood pressure (SBP), in c...
Canine overweight and obesity mirrors human trends, emphasizing a One Health perspective. This prospective study evaluated haematological, biochemical and urinary parameters, alongside systolic blood pressure (SBP), in client-owned dogs: normal-weight (NW, n = 10), overweight (OW, n = 10) and obese (OB, n = 10). Overweight and obese dogs followed a 150-day caloric restriction programme (high-protein, high-fibre, low-energy) with biweekly veterinary follow-up. At baseline, triglycerides were significantly higher in OB (126.6 mg/dL) compared to controls (57.6 mg/dL; p < 0.05). While serum total protein, globulin, C-reactive protein and calcium were significantly higher in OB (p < 0.05), mean values remained within clinical reference intervals. Baseline SBP in OB (191.3 mmHg) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in NW. Post-intervention, mean weight loss reached 9.43% (OW) and 9.83% (OB). Success in achieving ideal body condition was higher in OW (87.5%) than OB (30%) (p < 0.05). In obese group, hypertriglyceridaemia normalised (126.6 to 78.4 mg/dl; p < 0.01) and SBP significantly decreased (191.3 to 174 mmHg; p < 0.05). Programme success strongly correlated with improved physical activity (p < 0.05) and quality of life (p < 0.01). These findings confirm that canine obesity induces metabolic and inflammatory dysregulation, even in apparently healthy dogs. Results demonstrate that structured nutritional programmes can significantly mitigate these alterations, although certain inflammatory markers, like C-reactive protein, may not fully reach control levels within the study timeframe. Notably, clinically relevant improvements occurred before achieving ideal body condition, highlighting the efficacy of early intervention and sustained veterinary-owner engagement in weight management strategies.
Functional and feasibility aspects of orthopedic exoprostheses in quadruped domestic animals: a systematic review.
Paz JHN, de Souza MMN, Limeira CH … +4 more , da Silva MDCS, Maciel TA, de Miranda Neto EG, Carvalho LRRA
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Sep · PMID 42166870 · Publisher ↗
The use of prostheses in animals with partial limb amputation has emerged as an alternative to euthanasia, aiming to improve their quality of life. However, the fabrication and adaptation remain challenging in Veterinary...
The use of prostheses in animals with partial limb amputation has emerged as an alternative to euthanasia, aiming to improve their quality of life. However, the fabrication and adaptation remain challenging in Veterinary Medicine. This study aims to evaluate, through a systematic review, the determinants of viability, outcomes, and limitations of exoprostheses in domestic animals of varying sizes. A literature search was conducted in ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using structure search terms related to prosthesis, veterinary, amputation. After screening and analysis,15 studies were included in the review. Seven studies involved small animals (six canines and one feline), five involved medium-sized animals (four juvenile bovines and one adult pony), and three involved large animals (adult horses). Data regarding species, body size, temperament, level of amputation, prosthetic materials, complications and owner involvement were analyzed. Canines showed the most favorable outcomes. In large and medium-size animals, especially equines, the level of amputation and material resistance were critical, although the risk of overload injuries remains high, raising concerns about long-term quality of life. Three-dimensional printing has demonstrated potential for customized prosthesis development; however, further studies are needed to improve strength and durability. Overall, adaptation to orthopedic exoprostheses in quadruped animals is feasible when case selection, prosthetic planning, and long-term follow-up are ensured, with success largely dependent on stump health, individual condition, and prosthesis quality.
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