Research In Veterinary Science[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Veterinary perspectives on biosecurity measures in small-scale farming systems across European countries: Results from a cross-national survey.
Duarte F, Prodanov-Radulović J, Mehmedi B … +24 more , Piccirillo A, Stukelj M, Kldiashvili E, Nedosekov V, Milovanovic B, Ayaz ND, Yildiz R, Meling S, Toftaker I, Sirbu A, Dodovski A, Allepuz A, Zbikowski A, Koleci X, Berger C, Starič J, Filippitzi ME, Moskalenko L, Gresakova L, Chantziaras I, Berggren K, De Nardi M, Graziosi G, Santman-Berends IMGA
Res Vet Sci · 2026 May · PMID 41637954 · Publisher ↗
Maintaining sufficient levels of biosecurity at the farm level is crucial to prevent the introduction and spread of pathogens. However, data on biosecurity awareness and implementation in small-scale or backyard (hereaft...
Maintaining sufficient levels of biosecurity at the farm level is crucial to prevent the introduction and spread of pathogens. However, data on biosecurity awareness and implementation in small-scale or backyard (hereafter referred to as small-scale) holdings across Europe are lacking. While the risk posed by these farms is generally regarded as limited, they represent a diverse group of farmers and do play a role in disease introduction and spread. The aim of this study was to explore veterinarians' perspectives on small-scale farming in Europe, including the frequency of farm visits, the definition of small-scale farming, the current status of biosecurity, and the most important measures to prevent pathogen introduction and spread. A multidisciplinary team developed a comprehensive survey to collect veterinarians' perspectives on biosecurity in small-scale farms. The survey was translated into 16 languages, digitalised, and distributed online between July and December 2024 by participants of COST Action BETTER. Data were analysed descriptively, and clusters of veterinarians were distinguished using multiple correspondence analysis. In total, 346 veterinarians from 23 countries participated in the survey. There is no standard definition of small-scale farming throughout Europe. According to the participating veterinarians, a small-scale farm was defined as having a median number of fewer than 20 cattle, 30 small ruminants, 13 pigs, or 99 heads of poultry. Three clusters of veterinarians were identified based on geographical location, field experience, biosecurity training, and perceived biosecurity awareness within the small-scale farming community. Biosecurity measures already applied in small-scale farming included fencing, carcass management, and biosecurity measures related to purchasing and feeding practices. According to the participating veterinarians, the most important biosecurity measures for small-scale farms to prevent pathogen introduction and spread included factors related to the introduction of animals, such as quarantine facilities, testing for health status, and purchasing animals from farms with a high health status. Besides factors related to the introduction of animals, hygiene measures and fencing were also frequently indicated as the most important biosecurity measures. Nevertheless, significant differences were found between the clusters regarding the importance of specific biosecurity measures. This study provides valuable insights into the perceived awareness, implementation, and desired biosecurity measures in European small-scale farming and underscores the importance of integrating small farms into "One Health" strategies, given their potential role in the spread of infectious diseases.
Integrating multi-omics to characterize the dynamics of rumen microorganisms and metabolites in Angus cattle at different growth stages.
Xue L, Zhao W, Wang C … +10 more , Ma Y, Tian J, Yang L, Ma L, Jiang Q, Chen Y, Tian X, Ji X, Zhang J, Gu Y
Res Vet Sci · 2026 May · PMID 41633028 · Publisher ↗
The development of the bovine rumen microbiome is crucial for growth, yet the dynamic interactions between the microbiome and metabolome during key growth stages remain poorly understood. This study aims to integrate met...
The development of the bovine rumen microbiome is crucial for growth, yet the dynamic interactions between the microbiome and metabolome during key growth stages remain poorly understood. This study aims to integrate metagenomics and metabolomics approaches to decipher the stage-specific patterns of rumen microbial community and metabolite changes in castrated Angus cattle at three critical growth stages (6, 12, and 18 months of age), and to elucidate their associations with host growth performance. We collected rumen fluid samples from 24 Angus steers (8 per age group) reared under standardized conditions and performed metagenomic and non-targeted metabolomic analyses. Integrated analysis revealed distinct rumen ecosystem succession patterns: multiple species represented by Prevotella_sp._ne3005 dominated at 6 months, Fibrobacter_succinogenes showed significantly increased abundance at 12 months, and Methanobrevibacter_millerae exhibited the most pronounced enrichment at 18 months. Concurrently, key metabolites 12,13-Dihydroxyoleic Acid, Delta-12-Pgj2, and Cortisol exhibited a significant positive correlation with age. Further Pearson correlation analysis revealed strong correlations between the 18-month-enriched characteristic microorganism Methanobrevibacter_millerae and key metabolites (12,13-Dihydroxyoleic Acid, Delta-12-Pgj2, and Cortisol) as well as higher body weight. This study delineates a dynamic map of synergistic interactions between the rumen microbiome and metabolome, confirming their close association with host growth performance. This work provides a systematic multi-omics framework for understanding rumen development in ruminants and identifies potential targets for optimizing beef cattle production performance through microbial or metabolic interventions.
From gut health to nutrient digestion and metabolism: An integrative biomarker analysis in nursery pigs.
Walter MP, Galli GM, Kipper M … +2 more , Takeuti KL, Andretta I
Res Vet Sci · 2026 May · PMID 41621240 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to explore the relationship between intestinal health biomarkers and nutrient digestion and metabolism in nursery pigs. Thirty-two weaned pigs were individually housed and fed a single experimental diet...
This study aimed to explore the relationship between intestinal health biomarkers and nutrient digestion and metabolism in nursery pigs. Thirty-two weaned pigs were individually housed and fed a single experimental diet for 22 days. Feces and urine were collected on days 15 to 21 post-weaning to assess energy and protein digestibility and metabolizability. Blood samples were collected on day 22 to assess intestinal permeability, IgG, and IgA. Fecal samples were collected on the same day to quantify calprotectin, neopterin, lactoferrin, calcium-binding proteins, and fatty acid-binding protein (FABP). All pigs were euthanized on day 22 for intestinal tissue collection to determine villus height, villus width, crypt depth, and villus height-to-crypt depth ratio, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), glutathione S-transferase, protein thiols, resistance to rupture, zonula occludens-1, and occludin. Principal component analysis (PCA), correlation, and classification and regression tree (CART) methods were applied. Fecal calcium-binding proteins and FABP levels were identified in the tree-based models (CART) as key predictors of dry matter digestion. On the other hand, fecal calprotectin and FABP levels were the primary determinants of protein and energy digestibility and metabolizability. Fecal calprotectin levels between 79.4 and 79.6 ng/mL served as the cutoff to distinguish nursery pigs with high and low digestibility in two different CART models. Similarly, the cutoff for FABP levels ranged from 70.5 to 87.4 ng/mL, indicating its role in differentiating groups with high and low efficiency. Our results support the potential of fecal biomarkers as non-invasive indicators of digestibility and metabolism in weaned pigs.
Cervical disc disease in whippets: Results of an online survey involving Italian owners and breeders.
Dell'Apa D, Bianchi E, Auletta L … +5 more , de Chiara M, Micieli F, Ferrari F, Lamagna B, Pasolini MP
Res Vet Sci · 2026 May · PMID 41619577 · Publisher ↗
Whippet is considered quite a healthy breed. Nonetheless, the perception of some veterinary neurologists is that the occurrence of neurological diseases, especially cervical disc disease (CDD), is frequent in this breed....
Whippet is considered quite a healthy breed. Nonetheless, the perception of some veterinary neurologists is that the occurrence of neurological diseases, especially cervical disc disease (CDD), is frequent in this breed. This study aimed to get information about the prevalence of the most common disorders and conditions affecting the Italian Whippet population, particularly investigating the prevalence of CDD and the perception of the problem by owners and breeders. Owners and breeders included in the Italian Sighthound Club register were invited to answer anonymously an online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used for breeder/owner and dog characteristics, and statistical association with the development of CDD were explored. Over 280 Whippets, the overall prevalence of CDD was 7.2% and 29% in Whippets older than 9 years. Whippets older than 9 years were overrepresented in the CDD group (P < 0.0001; O.R. 0.07; 95% CI: 0.02-0.22) compared with the CDD group. These findings confirm the hypothesis that CDD may be a challenging and more prevalent than expected disorder in this breed and health screening programs could be recommended to breeders and owners to assess cervical spine conformation, especially before sporting activity or breeding.
Differences in expression of growth, immune activity and adaptation related genes in heat stressed dorper and second cross lambs.
Joy A, Mohapatra S, Dunshea FR … +7 more , Leury BJ, DiGiacomo K, Zhang MH, Abhijith A, Amponsah RO, Clarke IJ, Chauhan SS
Res Vet Sci · 2026 May · PMID 41619576 · Publisher ↗
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Minimally invasive glove port hernioscopy in a female dog with an intermittent hernia and abdominal mass: A case report.
Calva CKN, Paraguassú AO, Hörbe AV … +7 more , de Sousa FAB, de Melo Schiefler OH, de Jesus Neri Cerqueira L, Souto LS, Sueiro FAR, de Nardi AB, Brun MV
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41581468 · Publisher ↗
Minimally invasive surgery in small animals is constantly advancing, reducing tissue trauma, and improving diagnostic accuracy. This report documented the first use of hernioscopy associated with the glove port technique...
Minimally invasive surgery in small animals is constantly advancing, reducing tissue trauma, and improving diagnostic accuracy. This report documented the first use of hernioscopy associated with the glove port technique in a female dog with an partially reducible inguinal hernia. The 11-year-old patient exhibited a right inguinal swelling containing intestinal loops, concomitant with a extensive cystic intra-abdominal mass. An exploratory laparoscopy was performed through the inguinal hernia utilizing the glove port technique to establish multiport access without muscle wall incision. This method minimized tissue trauma and enabled comprehensive evaluation of the abdominal cavity, as well as partial mass resection. The procedure offered palliative benefits and introduced a novel application of laparoscopy for managing inguinal hernias in dogs.
Antiparasitic practices in Portuguese animal shelters: A survey of veterinarians.
Martins AL, Mourão J, Amorim I … +2 more , Cardoso L, Mesquita JR
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41581467 · Publisher ↗
Animal shelters often operate under significant resource constraints while caring for large populations of dogs and cats, many of whom are affected by parasitic infections that impact animal health and pose zoonotic risk...
Animal shelters often operate under significant resource constraints while caring for large populations of dogs and cats, many of whom are affected by parasitic infections that impact animal health and pose zoonotic risks. These limitations hinder the implementation of standardized, evidence-based parasite control protocols. This study surveyed veterinarians working in Portuguese shelters to describe current antiparasitic treatment practices and identify key limitations. A structured questionnaire was distributed to veterinarians in shelters or kennels affiliated with ICBAS, University of Porto, collecting data on animal populations, location, diagnostic testing, and antiparasitic drug use. A total of 41 responses were analysed. Additionally, a cost analysis was performed using 2024 wholesale antiparasitic treatment prices, based on average weights (20 kg dogs, 5 kg cats). Commercially available products were reviewed for active ingredients, target parasites, and cost per treatment. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize responses; no inferential analyses were performed given the limited sample size. Ectoparasiticides were the most frequently used treatments, followed by broad-spectrum nematocides and cestocides. Only 12% of shelters reported conducting diagnostic testing prior to treatment. Drug selection was primarily influenced by cost and perceived efficacy. Commonly used compounds included praziquantel, pyrantel, fipronil, fenbendazole, and milbemycin oxime, several of which have reported resistance in parasite populations. Treatment costs ranged from €0.82 to €219 per dose for 20 kg dogs and €0.73 to €34.84 for 5 kg cats. The limited use of diagnostics and reliance on broad-spectrum drugs reflect a reactive rather than preventative approach. Findings underscore the need for improved diagnostic protocols and strategic drug selection to enhance parasite control and animal welfare.
Evaluated the immune efficacy of a bivalent inactivated vaccine against post-weaning multisystemic wasting syndrome and mycoplasmal pneumonia of swine.
Shi J, Liu C, Wu X … +3 more , Wang Y, Li C, Li J
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41579427 · Publisher ↗
PMWS and MPS are severe respiratory diseases in piglets, causing developmental disorders and significant economic losses. The conventional approach to control these diseases relies on separate immunization with individua...
PMWS and MPS are severe respiratory diseases in piglets, causing developmental disorders and significant economic losses. The conventional approach to control these diseases relies on separate immunization with individual vaccines, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and may induce stress reactions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the immune efficacy of a bivalent inactivated vaccine containing the clinically isolated Mhp Q strain and purified PCV2 Cap VLPs. Thirty-five Changbai piglets were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 5, per group): A (bivalent inactivated vaccine with PCV2 challenged), B (bivalent inactivated vaccine with Mhp challenged), C (commercial PCV2 vaccine with PCV2 challenged), D (commercial Mps vaccine with Mhp challenged), E (sham-vaccinated with PCV2 challenged), F (sham-vaccinated with Mhp challenged), and G (sham-vaccinated with sham challenged). The immune efficacy results demonstrated that 5/5 protection with bivalent inactivated vaccine and 4/5 protection with commercial vaccine against PCV2 challenge, which was consistent with the serology results. The pneumonia lesion scores result demonstrated that the immune protection effect provided by the bivalent inactivated vaccine was comparable to that of the commercial Mps vaccines. Furthermore, the overall clinical trial results indicated that the bivalent inactivated vaccine was safe and controllable, with no adverse reactions observed in both age-matched and non-age-matched pigs. Following immunization, the pigs exhibited significant resistance to infections with both PCV2 and Mhp, reflecting a robust immunoprotective capacity. Collectively, these results support the bivalent inactivated vaccine as a safe and effective strategy for preventing and controlling PMWS and MPS, with promising potential for further clinical development.
Phenylalanine as a biomarker of disease in animals: Current evidence and future perspectives.
Mettam J, Ghumman NZ, Liu BT … +2 more , Annandale H, Gogoi-Tiwari J
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41579426 · Publisher ↗
Phenylalanine (Phe), an essential aromatic amino acid, is emerging as a potential biomarker of metabolic and health status in animals. Altered Phe concentrations reflect changes in metabolic, inflammatory, and disease pr...
Phenylalanine (Phe), an essential aromatic amino acid, is emerging as a potential biomarker of metabolic and health status in animals. Altered Phe concentrations reflect changes in metabolic, inflammatory, and disease processes. In companion animals, shifts in serum or biofluid Phe have been linked to hepatopathies, inflammatory enteropathies, and neoplastic conditions. In livestock, variations in milk or serum Phe accompany mastitis, metabolic stress, lameness, and other production-related disorders. Evidence for cats, horses, poultry, and aquaculture species remains limited. Interpretation is complicated by analytical variability, small sample sizes, and confounding factors such as diet, stress, and microbiome composition. Non-invasive sampling of milk, urine, saliva, and breath, shows promise for Phe monitoring across animal species. Advances in multi-omics, particularly metabolomics, proteomics, and microbiome analyses, can clarify mechanisms and support development of composite biomarker panels. This review evaluates current evidence on Phe as a biomarker across species, highlights gaps in research coverage and methodology, and outlines priorities for future work. Expanding studies to underrepresented species, standardizing measurement protocols, and conducting longitudinal research. Addressing these priorities is essential to establish Phe as a robust biomarker, for veterinary diagnostics, health monitoring, and the optimization of animal welfare and production systems. SHORT SUMMARY: This review looks at phenylalanine (Phe), an amino acid, as a possible health indicator in animals. Changes in Phe levels may show problems with metabolism, inflammation, or disease. Evidence is strongest for dogs and dairy cows, but limited for cats, horses, poultry, and fish. Results vary due to measurement methods and other factors. Future studies should standardize testing, include more species, and combine methods to improve Phe's usefulness in monitoring animal health.
Efficacy of fresh frozen plasma immunotherapy as an adjuvant treatment of neonatal sepsis in puppies.
Pereira KHNP, Fuchs KDM, Xavier GM … +7 more , Mendonça JC, Câmara DR, Dos Santos Correia LEC, Marcusso PF, Souza FF, Ribeiro MG, Lourenço MLG
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41576601 · Publisher ↗
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of fresh frozen plasma (passive immunotherapy) on clinical and laboratorial findings in puppies treated for neonatal sepsis. A total of thirty-one puppies were included i...
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of fresh frozen plasma (passive immunotherapy) on clinical and laboratorial findings in puppies treated for neonatal sepsis. A total of thirty-one puppies were included in this study, 16 were diagnosed with sepsis and treated either with plasma + antibiotic (plasma group, n = 7; PG) or antibiotic only (control group, n = 9; CG); whereas 15 were healthy neonates (HG). The groups were evaluated at the first appointment (M0), after 24 (M24), 48 (M48), 72 h (M72) and at the end of treatment (ME). At M0, neonates with sepsis presented a reduction (p < 0.05) in heart rate (HR), reflexes, blood glucose, body temperature, and leukocytes (leukopenia), with an increase (p < 0.05) in lactate and troponin I, compared to HG puppies. During treatment, significant improvement of laboratory parameters was observed in PG compared to CG puppies, with higher IgM level at M24, and higher blood glucose and leukocyte count at M24 and M48 (p < 0.05). At ME, the lactate was lower in PG than CG puppies (p < 0.05). There were no differences in the serum IgG or IgA concentrations among groups. Evaluating clinical and laboratory improvement between time points within the same group, differences (p < 0.05) were observed in the PG puppies, which increased blood glucose, temperature, leukocytes count, and IgM at M24 compared to M0. In the CG, a decrease in IgM concentration was detected at M24 compared to M0 (p < 0.05). Approximately 57% (4/7) of the neonates in the PG presented leukograms without alterations at M24. In the CG, leukograms without alterations were observed only at M72 in 55.5% (5/9) of the animals. The mortality rate was 22% (2/9) in the CG. There was no mortality in the PG. This was the first study using fresh frozen plasma as an adjuvant in the treatment of neonatal sepsis in dogs and evaluation of biomarkers in diagnosis. It was concluded that sepsis led to changes in the physiological parameters of neonatal dogs, demonstrating that the evaluation of leukocytes, troponin I and lactate can be used in the diagnosis and monitoring of sepsis. It was concluded that, besides being an important source of IgM, fresh frozen plasma stimulated healing of puppies with neonatal sepsis, by prompt (within 24 h) improvement in both clinical and laboratory parameters. Plasma therapy has been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of sepsis and is a promising therapeutic strategy for reducing neonatal mortality.
Electroretinographic measures and their correlation with retinal vascular calibers in bitches with pyometra-induced systemic inflammatory response syndrome.
Pizzinatto FD, Ribeiro AP, Rodrigues BE … +1 more , Junior EFR
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41576600 · Publisher ↗
Pyometra is characterized by a uterine inflammatory process that leads to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Bitches with pyometra-induced SIRS (P-SIRS) develop marked retinal microvascular alterations that...
Pyometra is characterized by a uterine inflammatory process that leads to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Bitches with pyometra-induced SIRS (P-SIRS) develop marked retinal microvascular alterations that may affect ERG findings. Therefore, this study aimed to assess potential changes in implicit times, wave amplitudes in pyometra-induced SIRS. Furthermore, we evaluated possible correlations between retinal vascular calibers and ERG parameters in the same patients. A prospective observational study was conducted on 14 bitches diagnosed with P-SIRS and 10 clinically healthy bitches (CG). In the P-SIRS group, the caliber of the retinal arterioles was significantly smaller (p = 0.0004), whereas venules were significantly larger (p = 0.008). The amplitude of the a-wave in the mixed rod-cone response was significantly smaller in the P-SIRS group compared to the CG (p = 0.03). The a-wave implicit times in the mixed rod-cone response were negatively correlated with both retinal arteriolar (p = 0.01) and venular (p = 0.03) calibers (Table 5; Fig. 3). Positive correlations were also observed between arteriolar (p = 0.04) and venular (p = 0.01) calibers and photoreceptor negative response (PhNR). This study demonstrated that retinal arteriolar constriction and venular dilation in pyometra-induced SIRS reduces the a-wave amplitude in the mixed rod-cone response. The observed correlations between retinal vascular calibers and the implicit times of the a- and b-waves, as well as between PhNR and vessel calibers, suggest that SIRS-induced changes in retinal vasculature can alter retinal blood flow, which is reflected in ERG parameters.
A cluster analysis of veterinarians' antimicrobial prescription preferences for companion animals in Portugal.
Alcântara GLC, Pinello K, Severo M … +1 more , Niza-Ribeiro J
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41570641 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial stewardship is essential to tackle antimicrobial resistance, particularly in veterinary practice where antimicrobials of high importance for human health require careful oversight. This study as...
BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial stewardship is essential to tackle antimicrobial resistance, particularly in veterinary practice where antimicrobials of high importance for human health require careful oversight. This study assessed prescribing patterns and concordance with FECAVA recommendations for prudent antimicrobial use across common clinical scenarios, providing a Europe-wide framework for responsible antimicrobial prescribing in companion animals. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among veterinarians in Portugal (October 2019-January 2020), covering 11 clinical scenarios and 18 therapeutic options, including 'no antimicrobial therapy'. Descriptive, inferential, and cluster analyses were performed. RESULTS: Among 416 respondents, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (27.4%) and fluoroquinolones (13.8%) were most frequently chosen. Six prescribing clusters were identified: Cluster D (33.2%) was the largest, followed by Clusters C (23.3%) and F (22.1%). Younger veterinarians (<42 years) were more likely to belong to Cluster A (p < 0.001). Clusters A and F frequently selected 'no antimicrobials,' whereas Cluster B predominantly relied on amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and aminoglycosides. Concordance with FECAVA recommendations was highest in Cluster A and lowest in Cluster B. Importantly, consensus across clusters was observed for post-operative prophylaxis, wound treatment, and osteomyelitis, where prescription patterns aligned with FECAVA guidance. LIMITATIONS: Limitations include potential recall and social desirability bias inherent to self-reported data, and the hypothetical scenarios did not account for case severity or previous antimicrobial exposure. CONCLUSION: Six distinct prescribing profiles were identified, with broad-spectrum antimicrobials frequently selected. The variability in antimicrobial prescription recommendation between the profiles underscores the need for targeted antimicrobial stewardship interventions to strengthen adherence to guidelines in companion animal practice.
Epidemiological factors of Eucoleus aerophilus infection in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from semi-arid Mediterranean environments.
Arcenillas-Hernández I, Català-Barrasetas M, Pérez-Cutillas P … +2 more , Ruiz de Ybáñez MR, Martínez-Carrasco C
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41558101 · Publisher ↗
Eucoleus aerophilus is a ubiquitous zoonotic nematode found in the tracheobronchial mucosa of the definitive hosts, described in wild and domestic canids, including the red fox (Vulpes vulpes). To assess E. aerophilus oc...
Eucoleus aerophilus is a ubiquitous zoonotic nematode found in the tracheobronchial mucosa of the definitive hosts, described in wild and domestic canids, including the red fox (Vulpes vulpes). To assess E. aerophilus occurrence and intensity in red foxes, the respiratory system of 126 foxes from Region of Murcia (SE, Spain) were examined. Statistical analyses were performed to investigate the influence of biotic and abiotic factors on the parasite's occurrence. The occurrence of E. aerophilus was 28.6% (95% CI: 20.6-36.4), with a mean intensity of 3.1 nematodes per parasitised fox. The infection rate and parasite intensity were higher in forested areas, suggesting that earthworm abundance and a longer survival of infective E. aerophilus eggs increase the risk of transmission and maintenance in the environment. Moreover, an inverse relationship between E. aerophilus occurrence and temperature (p < 0.05) was observed. Results demonstrated that foxes participate in maintaining the cycle of E. aerophilus in semi-arid Mediterranean environments. This should be taken into account at the wild-domestic-human interface. The development of a predictive model of E. aerophilus infection risk in red foxes will allow the design of future strategies for the prevention of capillariosis, especially in areas where contact between foxes, domestic carnivores, and humans exists.
Seroprevalence, molecular characterization, biotyping, and associated risk factors of bovine viral diarrhea in dairy cattle in Bangladesh.
Rana EA, Islam MS, Hossain B … +6 more , Ahad A, Hampson DJ, Abraham S, Sarker S, Gogoi-Tiwari J, Uddin JM
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41558100 · Publisher ↗
Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is globally endemic, with the ability to establish persistent infection (PI) being central to its complex epidemiology. Currently the genetic variability of BVDV in Bangladesh remains p...
Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is globally endemic, with the ability to establish persistent infection (PI) being central to its complex epidemiology. Currently the genetic variability of BVDV in Bangladesh remains poorly understood. This study involved a survey in commercial dairy herds in the south-eastern part of Bangladesh in 2024/2025. A total of 373 blood samples were collected from cattle in 24 dairy herds. Serum and buffy coat samples were analyzed using antibody-ELISA and RT-qPCR targeting the 5'-UTR region, followed by sequencing. The MDBK cell line was used for virus isolation and biotyping. Herd and animal-level seroprevalences were 83.3% and 15.3%, respectively, while the corresponding viremic rates were 79.2% and 11.0%. Analysis of 41 sequences identified nine distinct BVDV-1 subgenotypes (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1 k, 1p, 1o, and 1v), with BVDV-1b (41.5%) and BVDV-2a (14.6%) predominating. Additionally, five HoBiPeV-a pestiviruses were detected. Among antigen-positive cattle, 38 (92.68%) were identified as transiently infected and 3 (7.3%) were confirmed as PI. Six (14.6%) and 27 (65.9%) were identified as cytopathic and non-cytopathic biotypes, respectively. Risk factors for BVDV seropositivity included: female sex (OR: 3.0), clinical disease in the past three months (OR: 2.4), crowding (OR: 2.9), and lack of dedicated clothing for farm workers (OR: 5.7). Active infection was associated with calves (OR: 6.2), heifers (OR: 2.3), stunted growth (OR: 3.0), technician-performed artificial insemination (OR: 10.4), and frequent neighboring farm visits (OR: 3.1). This study has provided data crucial for formulating prevention and control strategies against BVDV to safeguard the Bangladeshi dairy industry.
Structure of the nucleoli in the spermatocytes of three canid species.
Andraszek K, Kuchta-Gładysz M, Niedbała P
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41554239 · Publisher ↗
The nucleolus is a structure of the cell nucleus associated mainly with ribosome biogenesis and indirectly responsible for protein biosynthesis. The nucleolus also plays a role in the regulation of cell growth and cell c...
The nucleolus is a structure of the cell nucleus associated mainly with ribosome biogenesis and indirectly responsible for protein biosynthesis. The nucleolus also plays a role in the regulation of cell growth and cell cycle progression, the detection and repair of DNA damage, and the export or degradation of mRNA. It is also involved in the most critical processes for the organism, such as ageing at the cellular level and broadly defined carcinogenesis. Analysis of the structure of nucleoli, which are the products of nucleolar organizer regions, can be an alternative source of information on the activity of rRNA-encoding genes. The material for the study was testes collected post mortem from sexually mature males of three canid species: silver fox (Vulpes vulpes), blue fox (Alopex lagopus) and Chinese raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides procyonoides). The morphology and morphometry of nucleoli identified in early primary spermatocytes were analysed. The values for all morphometric parameters of the spermatocyte nucleus were lowest for the silver fox and highest for the raccoon dog. In the case of nucleolus parameters, the lowest values were found in the raccoon dog and the lowest in the blue fox. The size of the nucleoli and spermatocyte nucleus proved to be a species-specific trait associated with the karyotype and number of nucleolar organizer regions in the species. The nucleolus is believed to play an important role in controlling meiosis. It is involved in preventing chromosome segregation during crossing over, and proteins associated with the nucleoli identify damaged synaptonemal complexes. Epigenetic regulations at the level of the nucleolus and rRNA genes remain a crucial subject of genetic research.
Lumpy skin disease threat in Europe: Current situation, transmission dynamics and future prospects.
Yeşilbağ K, Toker EB, Yaşar M … +2 more , Casal J, Pratelli A
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41548460 · Publisher ↗
Lumpy skin disease (LSD), caused by Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV, genus Capripoxvirus), is an emerging transboundary disease of cattle and water buffalo. Although rarely fatal, it results in severe economic losses due...
Lumpy skin disease (LSD), caused by Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV, genus Capripoxvirus), is an emerging transboundary disease of cattle and water buffalo. Although rarely fatal, it results in severe economic losses due to decreased productivity, hide damage, infertility, and trade limitations. This review summarizes the etiology, susceptible hosts, modes of transmission, and advances in control, vaccination, and treatment strategies, with a particular focus on Europe, where spread into previously unaffected areas has recently been reported. Since its first identification in Zambia in 1929, LSD remained endemic in Africa for six decades before spreading into the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. Major outbreaks have subsequently occurred in Türkiye, the Balkans, Russia, Asian territories, and, most recently, in Italy, France, and Spain in 2025. Transmission is primarily vector-borne through blood-feeding arthropods, while animal movements and inadequate farm-level biosecurity further exacerbate the spread. Control measures such as vaccination with homologous live-attenuated vaccines, quarantine, and movement restrictions have proven effective in limiting outbreaks. LSD poses a significant threat to livestock health and trade globally. Coordinated surveillance, improved biosecurity, and vaccination remain the cornerstones of control. Continued research into antiviral and alternative therapeutic strategies to complement existing prevention measures is warranted. Killed vaccines may currently help to protect animals in pre-epidemic areas and slow the rate of epidemics.
An evaluation of alternative buffers for the transport and detection of Moraxella bovis and M. bovoculi on cotton wool swabs.
Maartens LH, Gummow B, Grewar JD … +2 more , Thompson PN, Picard JA
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41547199 · Publisher ↗
Bovine keratoconjunctivitis is a globally important inflammatory condition affecting the eyes of cattle. The reliable detection of Moraxella bovis and M. bovoculi on conjunctival specimens is crucial for observational st...
Bovine keratoconjunctivitis is a globally important inflammatory condition affecting the eyes of cattle. The reliable detection of Moraxella bovis and M. bovoculi on conjunctival specimens is crucial for observational studies aiming to unravel the complex epidemiology of this disease. The stability of Moraxella DNA was evaluated in three experiments using cotton wool swabs spiked with varying concentrations of sample suspensions and submitted either with or without DNA stabilizers. Swabs were subjected to different storage temperatures (4 °C or 25 °C), and DNA was extracted at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h using an automated system, followed by qPCR analysis. DNA from both species remained detectable on damp cotton-wool swabs under all conditions, indicating resilience to transport delays and cold-chain interruptions. Although MagNA Pure Bacteria Lysis Buffer and MagNA Pure DNA Tissue Lysis Buffer provided acceptable stabilization, specimen submission without stabilizers was analytically more sensitive, detecting Moraxella DNA at higher dilutions and yielding higher inferred DNA concentrations (lower Cq values). These results indicate that Moraxella specimens can be packaged for transport without stabilizing buffers.
Primary phthalate metabolite concentrations in the hair of dairy cows in Kyrgyzstan.
Gonkowski S, Kadyralieva N, Vakonaki E … +2 more , Lamprakis T, Tzatzarakis M
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41547198 · Publisher ↗
Phthalates are commonly used in industry, contaminating the environment and harming living organisms. However, there is very limited information regarding farm animal exposure to these chemicals. Therefore, this study ai...
Phthalates are commonly used in industry, contaminating the environment and harming living organisms. However, there is very limited information regarding farm animal exposure to these chemicals. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the levels of primary phthalate metabolites (monomethyl phthalate - MMP, monoethyl phthalate - MEP, mono-isobutyl phthalate - MiBP, monobutyl phthalate - MBP, monobenzyl phthalate - MBzP, mono-cyclohexyl phthalate - MCHP and mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate - MEHP) in dairy cows' hair. Hair samples were collected from dairy cows bred in three regions of Kyrgyzstan. Phthalate metabolite levels were analysed using the liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) method. Phthalate metabolites were detected in dairy cow hair. MEHP was the most frequently observed (in 70.8% of samples), with a mean concentration (±standard deviation) of 27.3 ± 27.8 pg/mg. MiBP and MBP were found less frequently (in 60.4% of samples), with mean concentrations of 50.7 ± 103.9 pg/mg and 18.8 ± 31.7 pg/mg, respectively. MMP and MBzP were noted in 15% and 2.1% of the samples, respectively, and their mean concentrations were below the limit of detection (LOD). MEP and MCHP were not observed in hair samples in this study. Statistically significant differences in MEHP levels were noted between the regions included in the study. The study has demonstrated that hair analysis is a suitable method for biomonitoring phthalates in cow's hair. Moreover, it has been shown that dairy cows in Kyrgyzstan are primarily exposed to di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, di-isobutyl phthalate, and dibutyl phthalate, which are the parent substances of MEHP, MiBP, and MBP, respectively.
Intrauterine oxygen/ozone mixture for the treatment of subclinical endometritis in repeat breeder cows.
Carbonari A, Burgio M, Frattina L … +6 more , Cicirelli V, Iarussi F, Tempesta M, Lucente MS, Rizzo A, Greco G
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Apr · PMID 41547197 · Publisher ↗
Repeat Breeder Syndrome is a multifactorial condition in which subclinical endometritis (SCE) may represent an underlying cause. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an intrauterine oxygen/ozone gas mixt...
Repeat Breeder Syndrome is a multifactorial condition in which subclinical endometritis (SCE) may represent an underlying cause. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an intrauterine oxygen/ozone gas mixture administered at heat in Repeat Breeder (RB) cows with SCE. Of 156 RB cows, 57 affected with SCE based on cytological evaluation using the cytobrush technique were enrolled in the controlled clinical trial. These cows were randomly allocated, using randomization software, into two groups including treated (GM; 30) and untreated (CON; 27) animals. The intrauterine bacteria occurrence was monitored before (T0) and 12 h (T12) after treatment, along with an evaluation of reproductive parameters after the 1st and 2nd artificial insemination (AI). At T0, both groups showed similar bacterial positivity rates (12/30, 40% GM vs. 14/27, 51.85% CON; p = 0.43). At T12, all GM-positive cows had cleared cultivable bacteria, whereas all CON-positive cows remained bacteriological positive (p = 0.00001). This result indicated a 100% in-vivo clearance of cultivable bacteria. Furthermore, increasing pregnancy percentages were recorded after the 1st and 2nd AI in GM group (9/30, 30% and 9/21, 43%, respectively; p < 0.05) compared to the CON group (2/27, 7% and 1/25, 4%, respectively; p < 0.001). Overall, these preliminary findings suggest that intrauterine ozone therapy may represent a promising complementary tool for the management of SCE in RB cows, although further studies are required to confirm its efficacy and long-term benefits.
Bacterially expressed non-glycosylated recombinant bovine interferon lambda demonstrates antiviral activity against bovine viral diarrhea virus in cell culture.
Holthausen DJ, Bickel KA, Medina GN … +4 more , Nielsen DW, Kaplan BS, Casas E, Dassanayake RP
Res Vet Sci · 2026 Mar · PMID 41539011 · Publisher ↗
Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is a pathogen of economic concern for the cattle industry due to reproductive losses, persistently infected animals, and for contributing to the bovine respiratory disease complex. Bovi...
Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is a pathogen of economic concern for the cattle industry due to reproductive losses, persistently infected animals, and for contributing to the bovine respiratory disease complex. Bovine interferon lambda 3 (IFN-λ3) is a type III interferon and a glycosylated cytokine with potent antiviral activity. The recombinant glycosylated bovine IFN-λ3 (rbIFN-λ3) has antiviral activity against BVDV in Madin-Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) cells. Bacterial expression systems provide a higher-yield and more cost-effective alternative to eukaryotic expression systems. The antiviral properties of bacterially expressed non-glycosylated rbIFN-λ3 against BVDV in cell culture was determined in this study. The coding sequence for the mature bovine IFN-λ3 was cloned into a bacterial expression vector and non-glycosylated rbIFN-λ3 was expressed and purified. Cells were pre-treated with serial dilutions of rbIFN-λ3 one day prior to infection with BVDV. The rbIFN-λ3 treatment was repeated daily, and viral infection status was assessed three days post-infection using immunohistochemistry with a monoclonal antibody specific to the BVDV E2 glycoprotein. A single band corresponding to non-glycosylated rbIFN-λ3 with the expected molecular mass was observed on SDS-PAGE, and the identity of rbIFN-λ3 was confirmed via western blotting. Our results indicated that bacterially expressed rbIFN-λ3 without glycosylation demonstrated concentration-dependent antiviral activity, effectively reducing BVDV replication. These results indicate that glycosylation is not required for the antiviral function of bovine IFN-λ3, and supports the potential of using bacterially expressed, non-glycosylated bovine IFN-λ3 in antiviral therapies against BVDV infections.
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