Research In Veterinary Science[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Development of an ELISA as a complement to MAT for swine leptospirosis diagnosis.
Esteban M, Sanchez C, Rodriguez MA … +5 more , Saraullo VR, Hamer M, Brihuega BF, Samartino L, Martinez ML
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jul · PMID 41962427 · Publisher ↗
Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonotic disease caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira, affecting humans and a broad range of domestic and wild animals, which act as maintenance or incidental hosts. In s...
Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonotic disease caused by pathogenic spirochetes of the genus Leptospira, affecting humans and a broad range of domestic and wild animals, which act as maintenance or incidental hosts. In swine, infection is associated with reproductive losses and significant economic impact. Transmission occurs through direct or indirect contact with contaminated urine, soil, or water. In small-scale and extensive production systems, frequent exposure to mud, stagnant water, and wildlife increases the risk of infection with multiple Leptospira serovars, complicating diagnosis. Rapid and reliable diagnostic tools are therefore essential for effective surveillance and control. The aim of this study was to evaluate an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based on a bacterial sonicated antigen as a complementary method to the microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Using MAT as the reference method, a panel of swine sera was analyzed to determine diagnostic performance. The ELISA showed a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 96%, demonstrating good agreement with MAT. These results indicate that the assay provides acceptable diagnostic accuracy and may serve as a practical complementary tool for herd-level screening and surveillance of swine leptospirosis.
Evaluation of urinary amylase to creatinine ratio alone and in combination with urinary electrophoresis as a marker of renal damage in dogs with leishmaniosis undergoing conventional anti-Leishmania treatment.
Pantaleo V, Furlanello T, Ventura L … +1 more , Solano-Gallego L
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jul · PMID 41955684 · Publisher ↗
The aim of this study was to evaluate urinary amylase-to-creatinine ratio (uAm/Cr) alone and in combination with urinary sodium dodecyl-sulphate agarose gel electrophoresis (SDS-AGE) as a potential marker of renal damage...
The aim of this study was to evaluate urinary amylase-to-creatinine ratio (uAm/Cr) alone and in combination with urinary sodium dodecyl-sulphate agarose gel electrophoresis (SDS-AGE) as a potential marker of renal damage in dogs with leishmaniosis at the time of diagnosis and post-treatment with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol or miltefosine and allopurinol. Thirty-six healthy dogs and 31 dogs with leishmaniosis were enrolled in this prospective longitudinal study. Based on the initial creatinine (Cr) and urinary protein to creatinine ratio (UPC) values, leishmaniotic dogs were divided in: Group 1 if Cr was <1.4 mg/dl and UPC ≤ 0.5 (n = 14), Group 2 if Cr was <1.4 mg/dl and UPC > 0.5 (n = 11), and Group 3 if Cr was >1.4 mg/dl and a UPC > 0.5 (n = 6). According to SDS-AGE, 3 dogs had albuminuria, 4 tubular, and 20 mixed proteinuria at diagnosis. Post-treatment, 4 dogs had albuminuria, 5 tubular, 5 glomerular and 9 mixed proteinuria. At diagnosis the uAm/Cr was significantly different between all groups (P < 0.001) and after treatment decreased significantly only in Group 2 (269.7 [150.8-945] versus 8 [5-49.1], P = 0.001). At diagnosis and post-treatment, the uAm/Cr was significantly higher in dogs with mixed proteinuria (n = 20) compared to dogs with albuminuria and tubular proteinuria (n = 7) (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.003, respectively). The results suggest that uAm/cr could be a marker to evaluate renal damage at the time of diagnosis and eventual recovery after anti-Leishmania treatment, especially in dogs with proteinuria without azotemia.
Can integrated crop-livestock systems reduce tick infestation in cattle?
Martin DM, Moraes RF, Portugal TB … +3 more , Molento MB, de Oliveira LB, de Moraes A
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jul · PMID 41955683 · Publisher ↗
High levels of cattle tick (Rhipicephalus microplus) infestation cause production losses and increase livestock costs. Based on the hypothesis that the space-time rotation characteristic of integrated crop-livestock syst...
High levels of cattle tick (Rhipicephalus microplus) infestation cause production losses and increase livestock costs. Based on the hypothesis that the space-time rotation characteristic of integrated crop-livestock systems (ICLS) decreases tick populations in pastures and, consequently, reduces cattle infestation, this study evaluated infestation score (IS), number of acaricide applications (NAA), and average daily weight gain (ADWG) of beef steers grazing under four ICLS. The study was carried out with Angus steers in southern Brazil over three consecutive years (2017-2020). Animals were managed under continuous stocking in four systems: crop-livestock (CL), livestock-forestry (LF), crop-livestock-forestry (CLF), and livestock only (L). Tick infestation was assessed fortnightly (IS 0-4), and ADWG was obtained every 28 days. Animals in CL and CLF showed 17.6% and 29.4% lower IS compared with L and LF, respectively, resulting in proportionally fewer individual acaricide applications. Despite differences in infestation, ADWG did not vary among production systems. Seasonal effects were evident, with higher IS and NAA in summer. Logistic regression indicated that steers with high IS (3-4) were 12.6 times more likely to lose weight than those with lower IS (0-2). A progressive reduction in ADWG occurred as IS increased, suggesting that intervention at IS = 2 (5-10 adult ticks on one body side) may prevent performance losses. Space-time rotation in ICLS disrupts the free-living phase of R. microplus, reducing infestation and chemical use without impairing cattle productivity. ICLS combined with selective treatment represents a sustainable strategy for tick control in grazing systems.
Colostrum somatic cell counts and their association with the bacterial microbiota at udder quarter level in Simmental cows.
Kroboth C, Penagos-Tabares F, Klein-Jöbstl D … +1 more , Metzler-Zebeli BU
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41936224 · Publisher ↗
Analysing the somatic cell count (SCC) together with the microbiota composition in colostrum can be useful for monitoring udder health immediately after parturition. The present study aimed to explore the bacterial commu...
Analysing the somatic cell count (SCC) together with the microbiota composition in colostrum can be useful for monitoring udder health immediately after parturition. The present study aimed to explore the bacterial community in colostrum of Simmental cows, and to assess whether the bacterial diversity and composition related to the SCC at the udder quarter level. The SCC were examined in colostrum and milk on days 14 and 28 postpartum, which were aseptically collected separately for each udder quarter from 16 cows. The SCC was determined immediately after milking. The DNA was extracted from defatted colostrum and used for 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Results showed higher SCC in colostrum than in milk on day 14 and 28 postpartum. Colostrum was predominated by environmental bacteria (e.g., Delftia and Cutibacterium). Season did not affect SCC but colostrum collected in summer months contained more Delftia, whereas Methylobacterium-Methylorubrum and Acinetobacter were more abundant in the fall. Quarters on the left body side tended to have higher SCC and increased species richness than the quarters on the right body side. Partial least squares-discriminant analysis indicated that colostrum samples with low SCC (< 100 × 10 cells/mL) were characterized by high abundances of Lactobacillus and Cutibacterium, whereas Methylobacterium-Methylorubrum discriminated for colostrum with high SCC. Colostrum samples with high SCC (> 1000 × 10 cells/mL) also tended to contain more Streptococcus. Pearson correlations supported a link between higher SCC on day 28 and abundance of Streptococcus and Bacillus in colostrum, which should be further exploited in the future.
Cystic endometrial hyperplasia in dairy goats: morphological changes and expressions of estrogen receptor-α and progesterone receptor.
Avellaneda-Cáceres A, Aguirre LS, Sandoval GV … +6 more , Medina DM, Quintana AL, Acuña F, Gomez Castro G, Barbeito CG, Micheloud JF
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41936223 · Publisher ↗
Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH), often associated with hydrometra or mucometra, is a serious condition of subfertility and infertility in dairy goats, severely affecting herd productivity. Although there are many cl...
Cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH), often associated with hydrometra or mucometra, is a serious condition of subfertility and infertility in dairy goats, severely affecting herd productivity. Although there are many clinical reports of hydrometra in goats, research specifically addressing the molecular pathogenesis of CEH in this species remains notably limited. The objective of this study was to describe the morphological alterations in the endometrium of goats with CHE and to evaluate the immunohistochemical expression patterns of estrogen (ER-α) and progesterone receptor (PR) in the uterine wall by comparing them with those of healthy control goats. Gross pathological examination showed bilateral uterine distension, with both uterine horns symmetrically distended. Histological examination revealed extensive cystic dilatation of the endometrial glands. Immunoreactivity was objectively quantified using digital image analysis (H-score). The most significant molecular finding was an overexpression of both PR and ER-α in the affected group. Specifically, PR H-scores were significantly higher in the surface epithelium, stromal cells, and normal glands of affected goats (p = 0.0043). Furthermore, digital quantification revealed a significant up-regulation of ER-α in cystic glands (p = 0.0010) compared to control tissues. (p = 0.0043). These results suggest that CEH in dairy goats is associated with a localized hormonal dysregulation involving a concomitant increase in steroid receptor expression. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the complex hormonal environment involved in uterine diseases of small ruminants.
Comparative applied craniofacial morphometry in popular brachycephalic breeds: A tool for preventive medicine and risk stratification.
da Silva PHS, Castanheira ITF, Galera PD
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41926813 · Publisher ↗
Brachycephalic dog breeds are globally popular, yet their craniofacial morphometry is rarely quantified in clinical settings. Since each breed possesses distinct traits, individual assessment is crucial. This study aimed...
Brachycephalic dog breeds are globally popular, yet their craniofacial morphometry is rarely quantified in clinical settings. Since each breed possesses distinct traits, individual assessment is crucial. This study aimed to assess and compare cranial features of healthy French Bulldogs (FB), Pugs (P), and Shih Tzus (S), utilizing 25 dogs per breed (n = 75). Morphometric measurements included body weight, muzzle length (ML), skull length (SL), skull width (SW), palpebral fissure length (PFL), relative palpebral fissure length (RPFL), cephalic index (CI), and craniofacial ratio (CFR). Also, Body Weight was computed. All dogs were classified as extreme brachycephalic (CFR < 0.2; CI > 0.81). Significant breed-specific correlations were observed, notably between CFR and SW in FB, CFR and PFL in Pugs, and SL and SW in Shih Tzus. The French Bulldog was the heaviest breed, characterized by the widest skulls and largest palpebral width. Pugs exhibited the lowest CFR and shortest muzzles. These findings emphasize that the brachycephalic phenotype manifests heterogeneously across breeds. Consequently, from a preventive medicine perspective, these breeds cannot be treated as equivalents; clinical assessment and monitoring must be tailored to their specific anatomical profiles. This study provides reference data for clinical use and supports future research into breed-specific craniofacial anatomy.
Humic acid supplementation modulates ruminal and fecal microbial communities in lamb.
Santana DAD, Rolinski F, Trombetta LG … +5 more , Göhringer RMD, Lipinski LC, Weber SH, Sotomaior CS, Ollhoff RD
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41926812 · Publisher ↗
The gastrointestinal microbiome affects the health and productivity of animals. Modifying these traits with additives may enhance their effects, making it a relevant strategy. This study investigated the effects of humic...
The gastrointestinal microbiome affects the health and productivity of animals. Modifying these traits with additives may enhance their effects, making it a relevant strategy. This study investigated the effects of humic acids (HA) on the ruminal and fecal microbiomes of lambs and its potential adherence to ruminal mucosa. Twenty weaned Hampshire Down crossbred lambs aged 102.1 ± 6.6 days with an average body weight of 24.2 ± 3.5 kg were randomly allocated into two groups. Control group was fed a basal diet without HA, and treatment group was fed a basal diet with commercial HA at a dose of 500 mg/kg BW/day for 56 days. At the end of the experiment, ruminal and fecal samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and ruminal mucosal tissue from the slaughtered lambs was evaluated using histology and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The addition of HA to the feed of lambs increased the relative abundance of the genus Bifidobacterium and decreased the genus Lachnospiraceae CAG-127 in the ruminal microbiome of lambs. Furthermore, an increase in the relative abundance of the genera Acutalibacteraceae UBA5905 and Lachnospiraceae VUNI01, along with a reduction in the order Campylobacterales and the genus Acutalibacteraceae CAG-180 was observed in the fecal microbiome. HA was not found in the ruminal mucosa of lambs, as determined by histology or SEM. HA supplementation modulated the ruminal and fecal microbiomes of lambs by reducing harmful and increasing beneficial bacteria, highlighting its potential as a functional feed additive to support ovine gut health.
Unravelling proteomic changes of primary bovine endometrial epithelial cells to lipopolysaccharide and lipoteichoic acid bacterial ligand stimulation.
Wright YJK, Whiston R, Brewer A … +6 more , Adnane M, Nanni P, Grossmann J, Kunz L, de Almeida AM, Chapwanya A
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41921293 · Publisher ↗
Uterine health is essential for the reproductive success of dairy cows because endometritis is an important cause of infertility. Infections, particularly those caused by bacterial pathogens, lead to inflammatory respons...
Uterine health is essential for the reproductive success of dairy cows because endometritis is an important cause of infertility. Infections, particularly those caused by bacterial pathogens, lead to inflammatory responses in the uterus and economics losses to the dairy industry. This study aimed to investigate the proteomic alterations in bovine endometrial epithelial cells (bEECs) in response to bacterial ligands, specifically lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and to identify potential biomarkers for the early diagnosis of endometritis. Gel-free mass spectrometry analysis revealed significant differential protein expression in bEECs stimulated with LTA and LPS compared to untreated control cells. Key proteins such as CXCL6 and Serum Amyloid A (SAA) were upregulated by 3.5-fold and 2.8-fold, respectively, in the LPS treatment group. Additionally, proteins like CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β and oxidized low-density lipoprotein were significantly elevated by 2.2-fold and 1.9-fold in the LPS/LTA treatment group. This study underscores the importance of proteomic changes in bEECs in mediating immune responses to bacterial infection. The identified proteins, including CXCL6, SAA, and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β, play key roles in endometrial inflammation, tissue remodeling and repair, suggesting their potential as candidate biomarkers for the early detection of endometritis, that warrant further targeted validation. These findings could lead to more effective management strategies for improving reproductive health and fertility in dairy cows.
Characterizing neuroma-like formation after tail docking in sheep.
Pantel SK, Woods JM, Adcock SJJ … +1 more , Crawford LK
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41921292 · Full text
Tail docking is a routine husbandry procedure in lambs that causes acute pain. Studies of tail docking performed between 4 and 8 weeks of age have reported neuromas in the tail stump, which are characterized by aberrant...
Tail docking is a routine husbandry procedure in lambs that causes acute pain. Studies of tail docking performed between 4 and 8 weeks of age have reported neuromas in the tail stump, which are characterized by aberrant nerve proliferation and fibrotic scarring and represent a potential source of chronic pain. However, it remains unclear whether similar lesions develop after rubber ring docking in the first week of life, the age at which this method is commonly recommended. This study examined the histological characteristics of tail stumps in lambs docked with a constrictive rubber ring at 1-2 days of age compared with undocked controls. Eighteen Polypay female lambs (8 docked, 10 undocked) were slaughtered at 7.5 to 8 months of age and their tails collected and decalcified for histology and immunohistochemistry. Tissues were evaluated for abnormalities characteristic of neuromas followed by blinded semi-quantitative scoring of key histologic features. Neuroma-like axon proliferation and fibrosis ranged from mild to severe and were significantly more severe in docked than undocked tails. In addition to neuromatous lesions in the soft tissue, axon proliferation was particularly prominent in the periosteum of the docked vertebral bone. Masson's trichrome staining showed that neural proliferation was accompanied by fibrosis, and immunohistochemistry confirmed that lesions included proliferation of both axons and Schwann cells, characteristic of traumatic neuromas. These findings provide evidence that tail docking with a rubber ring, even when performed at an early age, causes neuroma-like lesions, which may represent a source of chronic pain in sheep.
Nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus in dogs and owners: Spa typing and antimicrobial resistance in two Italian veterinary hospitals.
Nebbia P, Robino P, Iamone G … +11 more , Schena R, Arslan S, Cavalli S, Romano A, Bellato A, Prandi I, Mancusi D, Olimpo M, Fatone G, Nocera FP, De Martino L
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41921291 · Publisher ↗
Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic pathogen that colonizes humans and animals and causes a wide range of infections. Within a One Health framework, this study investigated nasal carriage, antimicrobial resistance,...
Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic pathogen that colonizes humans and animals and causes a wide range of infections. Within a One Health framework, this study investigated nasal carriage, antimicrobial resistance, and genetic diversity of S. aureus in dogs and their owners attending two Veterinary Teaching Hospitals in Southern and Northern Italy. Strains were characterized using minimum inhibitory concentration testing and spa typing to assess resistance profiles and potential host- or region-associated patterns. A total of 108 S. aureus isolates were recovered from 77 owners and 31 dogs. In 17 dog-owner pairs (6 from Southern Italy and 11 from Northern Italy), S. aureus was isolated from both hosts. Overall, resistance was most frequent to penicillin (72.2%), followed by erythromycin (38%), and cefoxitin and gentamicin (13.9% each). Isolates from Southern Italy showed higher levels of antimicrobial resistance compared to that of Northern Italy. Fifteen isolates (13.9%) were classified as methicillin resistant, and all of which were multidrug resistant. The most common spa type was t1451 in both regions, while other prevalent types differed geographically. Identical spa types were detected in 11/17 dog-owner pairs (64.7%), suggesting possible interspecies transmission or shared environmental sources. No association was observed between spa type and multidrug resistance. These results highlight regional differences in S. aureus populations and confirm the lack of strict host specificity, underlining the importance of integrated One Health surveillance to address zoonotic transmission risks.
Dihydromyricetin attenuates LPS-induced liver injury in chicks through the JNK signaling pathway.
Jia L, Liu J, Ji Z … +8 more , Yuan L, Gong Y, Jiang X, Fan X, Li C, Li R, Wang H, Liu F
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41921290 · Publisher ↗
Recently, the incidence of liver injury in livestock and poultry caused by bacterial infections has been on the rise. As a major pathogenic factor determining Gram-negative bacterial infections, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)...
Recently, the incidence of liver injury in livestock and poultry caused by bacterial infections has been on the rise. As a major pathogenic factor determining Gram-negative bacterial infections, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) frequently contributes to reduced performance and even mortality in poultry, thus inflicting substantial economic losses in the livestock industry. It is imperative to develop safe and efficient protective drugs to mitigate liver damage and decrease susceptibility to chronic diseases in farm animals. Dihydromyricetin (DHM), a natural flavonoid compound extracted from the Ampelopsis grossedentata, possesses multiple pharmacological activities. Research has indicated that DHM exhibited protective and curative effect on tissue injury. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms underlying its attenuation of liver injury remain unclear. In this experiment, an LPS-induced liver injury model was established in chicks, which were then treated with various doses of DHM. The results showed that DHM improved the degree of hepatocyte pathology, decreased the activities of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in serum, and inhibited the expression of c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) pathway upstream-related proteins (ASK1, MKK4, and MKK7), JNK, and its downstream-related protein (c-Jun) along with their phosphorylation levels (p-ASK1, p-MKK4, p-MKK7, p-JNK, and p-c-Jun). Additionally, DHM promoted the expression of anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2), repressed the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins (BAX and caspase-3), and subsequently reduced hepatocyte apoptosis. Overall, DHM inhibited the activation of JNK pathway to reduce hepatocyte apoptosis, thereby alleviating liver injury. This work provides a theoretical basis for the development and utilization of DHM.
Unveiling Telocytes architecture and distribution in the embryonic duodenum of quail (Coturnix japonica): Morphological and ultrastructural insights.
Abdelhakeem F, Mohammed ESI, Al-Rasheed M … +1 more , Madkour FA
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41915944 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Telocytes (TCs) have emerged as a novel and interesting cell population with potential roles in tissue homeostasis and regeneration. The information of their presence and distribution in avian species is limi...
BACKGROUND: Telocytes (TCs) have emerged as a novel and interesting cell population with potential roles in tissue homeostasis and regeneration. The information of their presence and distribution in avian species is limited. METHODS: Various age stages of quail embryos were collected to identify the morphology and distribution of telocytes within the layers of the duodenum using light microscopy (LM) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). RESULTS: By LM, TCs were recognized by their characteristic morphological features such as a small cell body with prolonged projections known as telopodes. TCs were observed in subepithelial connective tissue, within the villus core, surrounding duodenal crypts, within lamina propria, around blood vessels, among smooth muscle fibers and within the submesothelial layer of the serosa. TEM revealed that TCs in the embryonic duodenum were detected on the 8th day of incubation as a small cellular body primarily occupied with a nucleus. TCs possessed thin, prolonged telopodes, and their morphology varies depending on the number of telopodes, whose shapes vary, ranging from piriform to stellate forms. By hatching, TCs were distributed near goblet cells, blood capillaries, and immune cells, forming extensive cellular networks within both lamina propria and muscular layers. CONCLUSIONS: TCs and their telopodes were in close contact with various cell types where their localization suggest that they may participate in epithelial proliferation, myogenesis, immune regulation, and angiogenesis. However, these proposed functions remain speculative, and further detailed studies are essential to confirm their roles.
Effects of dietary supplementation of methylsulfonylmethane on performance, egg quality, serum biochemical parameters, and malondialdehyde levels in feed-restricted laying hens.
Yilmaz E, Gur C, Gul M
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41915943 · Publisher ↗
This study investigated the effects of dietary methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) supplementation on performance, egg quality, serum biochemical parameters, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in feed-restricted laying hens. Seven...
This study investigated the effects of dietary methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) supplementation on performance, egg quality, serum biochemical parameters, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in feed-restricted laying hens. Seventy-two hens were randomly assigned to three groups (control, M5, and M7), with six replicates per group, each consisting of four hens. All birds underwent a daily feed restriction of 5 h over a 56-day experimental period. The MSM supplementation significantly increased final body weight (p < 0.001) and feed intake (p = 0.021) but had no effect on egg production or feed conversion ratio. The 0.7% MSM group had a higher egg weight (p = 0.005), while the 0.5% MSM group had a lower dirty and cracked eggs (p = 0.049). Yolk color was improved with 0.7% MSM (p = 0.041), but the Haugh unit and yolk index decreased (p < 0.05). Alkaline phosphatase and glucose levels were increased in the 0.7% group (p < 0.05), with no other significant biochemical changes. MSM reduced MDA levels in both serum and egg yolk, particularly at 0.5% (p < 0.05). The results indicate that especially 0.5% MSM supplementation improved performance, egg quality, and malondialdehyde levels in feed-restricted hens.
Negative impact of omega-3 egg enrichment on egg weight and egg production: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Kinchin GJ, Vieira DS, Conceição MF … +3 more , Pereira RQF, Filho LPS, Vieira BS
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41915942 · Publisher ↗
Omega-3 egg enrichment is based on hens` feed supplementation with different omega-3 sources. Although contradictory, negative effects of this strategy have been described on hens` productive performance. This study aime...
Omega-3 egg enrichment is based on hens` feed supplementation with different omega-3 sources. Although contradictory, negative effects of this strategy have been described on hens` productive performance. This study aimed to summarize literature information through systematic review and meta-analysis to accurately quantify the effect size of omega-3 supplementation on egg omega-3 concentration, egg weight, egg production and hens` feed conversion. Literature search retrieved 1835 results, but only 17 met our eligibility criteria and were included in this meta-analysis. Total assessed population of hens (n = 3423) was composed mainly of brown hens/eggs (n = 1758), from South American trials (n = 1254), receiving omega-3 from flaxseed (n = 548), fish oil (n = 588), microalgae (n = 794) and mixed animal/plant sources (n = 944). Overall, omega-3 supplementation increased (p < 0.001) egg omega-3 concentration, but decreased egg weight (p = 0.007) by 0.45 g and egg production (p = 0.040) by 0.88%. While omega-3 source and feed concentration were significant moderators for nearly all variables, egg weight was reduced after omega-3 supplementation regardless of trial location, hens` genetics, supplementation start and period, omega-3 source and feed omega-3 concentration. Flaxseed was the most effective (p < 0.001) source in transferring omega-3 from feed to eggs, but it was also the one that most reduced (p < 0.001) egg production. In conclusion, feed omega-3 supplementation increases egg omega-3 concentration, but decreases both egg weight and egg production. Most intense positive and negative effects of egg enrichment protocols occur with flaxseed.
Continental assessment of Rift Valley fever in dromedary camels: Systematic review and Meta-analysis, 1977-2025.
Saadet S, Aroussi A, Ferdes I … +6 more , Fennouh C, Medrouh B, Yousfi S, Salhi O, Khelifi Touhami NA, Ouchene N
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41915941 · Publisher ↗
Rift Valley Fever (RVF) is a viral, mosquito-borne disease affecting livestock, including camels, and humans. The virus, belonging to the genus Phlebovirus, is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes of the genera Aedes and...
Rift Valley Fever (RVF) is a viral, mosquito-borne disease affecting livestock, including camels, and humans. The virus, belonging to the genus Phlebovirus, is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes of the genera Aedes and Culex, which act as both reservoirs and vectors, facilitating viral spread during outbreaks. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to provide a comprehensive synthesis of RVF epidemiology in camels across Africa from 1977 to 2025, estimate the true seroprevalence, and assess potential risk factors associated with infection. Following PRISMA guidelines, an exhaustive search of PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and ScienceDirect was conducted. A total of 34 eligible studies, encompassing 7444 camels from 11 African countries, were included. The overall pooled seroprevalence was 17.25% (1316/7444; 95% CI: 11.82-23.43%), with the highest rates reported in Somalia (73.4%), Niger (36.6%), and Mauritania (32.2%). Seroprevalence differed significantly between countries and age groups (p < 0.0001), with adult camels exhibiting higher rates than younger animals. No significant differences were observed with respect to sex, health status, origin, sample size, or diagnostic method. Temporal analyses revealed fluctuating prevalence over decades, reflecting periodic epizootics and vector activity. Despite the limited number of studies focusing on camels, these findings provide critical insights for public and animal health authorities to develop evidence-based RVF control strategies, including vaccination, vector management, and movement control. Further entomo-epidemiological studies are strongly recommended to enhance understanding of RVF transmission dynamics and support targeted surveillance. This review highlights the role of camels as sentinel species for RVF circulation in Africa and underscores the need for integrated One Health approaches to mitigate both animal and human infection risks.
Using biomarkers to detect intramammary infections in dairy cows at dry-off.
Viora L, Pepler PT, O'Reilly EL … +3 more , Brady N, Zadoks RN, Eckersall PD
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41905028 · Publisher ↗
Prevention and treatment of intramammary infections (IMI) associated with subclinical mastitis (SCM) are among the leading reasons for antimicrobial usage (AMU) in dairy cows, especially at dry-off. By adopting a selecti...
Prevention and treatment of intramammary infections (IMI) associated with subclinical mastitis (SCM) are among the leading reasons for antimicrobial usage (AMU) in dairy cows, especially at dry-off. By adopting a selective dry cow therapy ((S)DCT), only cows or quarters with a demonstrable risk of IMI would be treated and AMU would be decreased. Several tools have been proposed to identify cows for SDCT, including algorithms based on clinical mastitis and somatic cell count (SCC). The potential of milk proteins as biomarkers for IMI at dry-off has not been fully evaluated. In this study, biomarkers in 185 milk samples collected aseptically at drying off were quantified and their value in detecting IMI was evaluated (individually and in combination) in comparison to SCC and California Mastitis test using a case-control design with culture-based detection of IMI as gold standard comparator. Biomarkers quantified were lactoferrin, α-lactalbumin, haptoglobin, mammary amyloid A, C-reactive protein and cathelicidin. Of the six biomarkers examined, three had accuracies greater than 61% based on univariate biomarker trees (62%, 65% and 65% for haptoglobin, cathelicidin and milk amyloid A, respectively). A two-biomarker decision tree combining cathelicidin and milk amyloid A improved overall accuracy to 70% (sensitivity 72%, specificity 67%), comparable in performance to SCC, maintaining an acceptable level of sensitivity, but with greater specificity - an attribute desirable for SDCT. This performance highlights its potential use as a practical tool to reduce unnecessary antimicrobial treatments at dry-off, supporting selective dry cow therapy without compromising detection of infected quarters.
Lycopene ameliorates swainsonine-induced autophagy in rat renal tubular epithelial cells via the endoplasmic reticulum stress UPR pathway.
Wang P, Tang L, Yang L … +6 more , Zhang C, Yin H, Hou S, Shao Y, Qu Y, Lu H
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41905027 · Publisher ↗
Locoweed toxicity (locoism) is a severe toxicological disorder in grazing livestock, primarily caused by swainsonine (SW), an indolizidine alkaloid that inhibits α-mannosidase, disrupts glycoprotein processing, and induc...
Locoweed toxicity (locoism) is a severe toxicological disorder in grazing livestock, primarily caused by swainsonine (SW), an indolizidine alkaloid that inhibits α-mannosidase, disrupts glycoprotein processing, and induces endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), unfolded protein response (UPR) activation, and dysregulated autophagy, leading to multi-organ damage, particularly in the kidney. Despite reported anticancer and immunomodulatory activities, the high toxicity of SW limits its biological application, and effective protective strategies remain unavailable. Lycopene (LYC), a natural carotenoid with potent antioxidant properties, has been shown to regulate ERS and autophagy. This study investigated the protective effects of LYC against SW-induced cellular stress and the underlying mechanisms related to ERS and UPR signaling. Primary rat renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) were treated with SW with or without LYC, and autophagy and ERS-related responses were analyzed using Western blotting, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence, and Ad-GFP-mCherry-LC3 assays. The results demonstrated that 10 μM LYC significantly attenuated SW-induced autophagy, as evidenced by decreased LC3-II/LC3-I and p62 protein levels, without markedly altering autophagy-related gene transcription. Additionally, LYC partially suppressed SW-induced ERS by reducing p-eIF2α and ATF4 expression, while the IRE1α and ATF6 pathways were largely unaffected. In conclusion, lycopene partially alleviates SW-induced autophagy in renal tubular epithelial cells, likely through modulation of PERK-dependent UPR signaling, providing experimental evidence for its potential protective role against locoweed toxicity.
Dynamics of blood glucose changes and hormonal sensitivity under anesthesia with medetomidine-midazolam-butorphanol anesthesia in rats.
Horii Y, Naitou K, Shiina T
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jun · PMID 41903437 · Publisher ↗
Recent trends in laboratory animal research have shifted the anesthetic choice as a result of concerns about safety, animal welfare, and regulatory issues. Consequently, rodent studies have widely adopted the combination...
Recent trends in laboratory animal research have shifted the anesthetic choice as a result of concerns about safety, animal welfare, and regulatory issues. Consequently, rodent studies have widely adopted the combination of medetomidine, midazolam, and butorphanol (MMB). Although studies have reported that MMB anesthesia elevates blood glucose levels, the time-dependent changes in blood glucose and the responsiveness to hormones involved in glucose regulation have not been sufficiently investigated. This study aimed to clarify the temporal profile of blood glucose levels under MMB anesthesia and evaluate the responsiveness to adrenaline and insulin, representative hormones that influence glucose levels. Beginning 10 min after administration, MMB anesthesia induced a marked increase in blood glucose levels, and the elevation persisted up to 60 min. In contrast, pentobarbital anesthesia produced only a transient and mild increase, with no changes observed in the saline group. Blood glucose levels increased under awake and pentobarbital-anesthetized conditions in response to adrenaline, but exhibited no change under MMB anesthesia. In streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemic rats, the glucose-lowering effect of insulin was observed to a similar extent under awake, pentobarbital-anesthetized, and MMB-anesthetized conditions. The present results show that MMB anesthesia has a marked effect on blood glucose levels and alters the response to adrenaline. Therefore, in experiments that measure physiological or biochemical parameters under anesthesia, it is necessary to carefully consider the potential influence of MMB anesthesia on experimental outcomes and critically evaluate the appropriateness of its use.
Corrigendum to <'Circulating exosome-mediated AMPKα-SIRT1 pathway regulates lipid metabolism disorders in calf hepatocytes'> <[Research in Veterinary Science 169 (2024) /105177]>.
Zhang D, Ding H, Liu C … +6 more , Huang Y, Tai W, Feng S, Wang X, Zhao C, Li Y
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jul · PMID 41896153 · Publisher ↗
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Corrigendum to: "Prognostic relevance of selected nucleotide variants in canine cutaneous mast cell tumors" [Research in Veterinary Science 204 (2026) 106129].
Sirivisoot S, Kasantikul T, Techangamsuwan S … +1 more , Rungsipipat A
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Jul · PMID 41887941 · Publisher ↗
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