Veterinary Sciences

14 pages, 251 KB

Open AccessArticle

Intraoperative Analgesic Requirements in Dogs Receiving Retromammillary or Erector Spinae Plane Blocks for Thoracolumbar or Lumbar Hemilaminectomy: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study

by Mariana Cavalcanti-McKenzie, Raiane A. Moura, Enzo Vettorato, Marta Romano, Ludovica Chiavaccini, Chiara De Gennaro, Elizabeth A. Maxwell, Pablo E. Otero and Diego A. Portela

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 995; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090995 - 20 Sep 2026

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Abstract

Thoracolumbar and lumbar hemilaminectomy in dogs requires effective perioperative analgesia. The erector spinae plane (ESP) and retromammillary (RM) blocks are ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia techniques targeting the dorsal branches of spinal nerves, but comparative clinical data are lacking. This retrospective cohort study compared perioperative [...] Read more.

Thoracolumbar and lumbar hemilaminectomy in dogs requires effective perioperative analgesia. The erector spinae plane (ESP) and retromammillary (RM) blocks are ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia techniques targeting the dorsal branches of spinal nerves, but comparative clinical data are lacking. This retrospective cohort study compared perioperative analgesic requirements and complication rates between ESP (n = 62) and RM (n = 207) blocks in client-owned dogs undergoing hemilaminectomy. The primary outcome was intraoperative opioid rescue analgesia; secondary outcomes included rescue analgesia using any analgesic agent, perioperative opioid consumption (expressed as morphine equivalents, mg kg⁻¹), pain scores, time to voluntary food intake, and complications. Multivariable logistic regression, with covariates selected using a directed acyclic graph, assessed independent predictors of intraoperative opioid rescue administration. Dogs receiving ESP blocks were more likely to require intraoperative opioid rescue than those receiving RM blocks (59.7% versus 38.7%; adjusted odds ratio (OR) 3.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.7–6.6; p < 0.001). Rescue analgesia using any analgesic agent was also more frequent in the ESP group (64.5% versus 43.0%; p = 0.004). Postoperative pain scores, time to first voluntary food intake, and complications were similar between groups. The RM block was associated with reduced intraoperative rescue analgesia compared to the ESP block, though both techniques provided effective postoperative analgesia within multimodal protocols. Prospective randomized trials are warranted to confirm these findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Local and Regional Anesthesia in Veterinary Medicine)

19 pages, 1559 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Systematic Review of β-Lactamase and Carbapenemase-Producing Escherichia coli at the Animal–Food Interface in the Middle East and North Africa

by Hamid Reza Sodagari and Ihab Habib

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 994; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090994 - 20 Sep 2026

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Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance is a major global health challenge, and food-producing animals and foods of animal origin may contribute to the dissemination of resistant bacteria through the food chain. This review aimed to summarize recent evidence on extended-spectrum β-lactamase- and carbapenemase-producing Escherichia coli in [...] Read more.

Antimicrobial resistance is a major global health challenge, and food-producing animals and foods of animal origin may contribute to the dissemination of resistant bacteria through the food chain. This review aimed to summarize recent evidence on extended-spectrum β-lactamase- and carbapenemase-producing Escherichia coli in food animals and animal-derived foods across Middle East and North Africa countries. A structured literature search was conducted to identify peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and 2025. Data regarding country, sample type, prevalence, and resistance genes were extracted and analyzed descriptively. Twenty-eight studies from nine MENA countries revealed the presence of resistant E. coli in poultry, cattle, sheep, swine, camels, seafood, and other animal-derived products. Poultry showed a higher reported prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing E. coli, while carbapenem-resistant isolates were less frequently reported but were detected in several countries. The bla_CTX-M family was the predominant extended-spectrum β-lactamase determinant, whereas bla_NDM, bla_OXA-48-like, and bla_KPC were among the commonly identified carbapenemase genes. These findings demonstrate that food animals and animal-derived foods may represent important reservoirs of clinically relevant resistance genes in the Middle East and North Africa region. Strengthening One Health surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship, and regional collaboration is essential to limit the spread of resistant bacteria. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One World, One Health: Combatting the Spread of Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens at the Human–Animal–Environment Interface—2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 22938 KB

Open AccessArticle

Caprine Kobuvirus VP1 Protein Activates the Mitochondrial Apoptotic Pathway via Interaction with BAD

by Kehamo Abi, Zhizhong Jing, Cheng Tang, Yao Wang, Kegu Ji’e, Yang Su and Falong Yang

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 993; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090993 - 19 Sep 2026

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Abstract

Caprine kobuvirus (CKoV) is a member of the Picornaviridae family that causes enteritis in goats and poses a significant health threat, yet its molecular pathogenesis remains largely unknown. Here, we show that experimental infection of goats with CKoV induces apoptosis in the spleen, [...] Read more.

Caprine kobuvirus (CKoV) is a member of the Picornaviridae family that causes enteritis in goats and poses a significant health threat, yet its molecular pathogenesis remains largely unknown. Here, we show that experimental infection of goats with CKoV induces apoptosis in the spleen, lungs, and intestine tissues. In vitro, CKoV infection of HEK293T cells triggers apoptosis, with the viral structural protein VP1 identified as sufficient to induce apoptosis. VP1 activates the mitochondrial (intrinsic) apoptotic pathway, as evidenced by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3, elevated Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, cytochrome c release, and Bax translocation to mitochondria. Notably, VP1 associates with the pro-apoptotic protein BAD (BCL2-associated agonist of cell death) and co-localizes with it in mitochondria. Overexpression of BAD enhances VP1-induced apoptosis, whereas BAD knockdown by siRNA suppresses it, demonstrating that BAD plays a contributory role in VP1-induced apoptosis. These findings uncover a novel VP1–BAD mitochondrial apoptosis axis in CKoV pathogenesis and suggest that VP1 may merit further investigation as a potential molecular target for antiviral intervention against CKoV-associated enteritis in goats. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging and Re-Emerging Viral Infections in Animals: Clinical, Immunological, Epidemiological and Public Health Aspects)

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15 pages, 808 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Age Category and eCG Dose on Reproductive Performance in Ile-de-France Ewe Lambs and Adult Ewes Under Seasonal-Transition Field Conditions

by Muhammed Furkan Ciftci and Fatma Satilmis

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090992 - 19 Sep 2026

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Abstract

This field study evaluated the effects of 400 and 500 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) on oestrus response, fertility, and lambing performance in Ile-de-France ewe lambs and adult ewes under seasonal-transition field conditions. A total of 914 animals were assigned to four groups [...] Read more.

This field study evaluated the effects of 400 and 500 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) on oestrus response, fertility, and lambing performance in Ile-de-France ewe lambs and adult ewes under seasonal-transition field conditions. A total of 914 animals were assigned to four groups according to age category and eCG dose: ewe lambs receiving 400 IU (EL400, n = 173) or 500 IU eCG (EL500, n = 169), and adult ewes receiving 400 IU (AE400, n = 301) or 500 IU eCG (AE500, n = 271), following a 7-day intravaginal progesterone-based synchronization protocol. Oestrus rate did not differ among groups (p = 0.861), indicating that both doses were similarly effective in inducing behavioural oestrus, whereas the interval to oestrus onset showed significant main effects of both age category (p < 0.001) and eCG dose (p < 0.001), with no significant age × dose interaction (p = 0.559). Using a 2 × 2 factorial analysis, significant main effects of age category were observed for outcomes including pregnancy rate following oestrus, overall pregnancy rate, and fecundity (p = 0.001, p = 0.009, and p = 0.004, respectively), with higher values in adult ewes than in ewe lambs regardless of eCG dose. In contrast, 500 IU eCG was associated with a greater overall litter size and multiple birth rate than 400 IU eCG (p = 0.039 and p = 0.033, respectively). The age × dose interactions for litter size and multiple birth rate were not statistically significant (p = 0.058 and p = 0.071, respectively). The age × dose interaction for lambing rate was also not statistically significant (p = 0.064). These results indicate that age category and eCG dose were associated with different aspects of reproductive performance. Under the specific seasonal-transition field conditions of this single-breed, single-farm study, selecting the eCG dose according to the reproductive objective may represent a practical management consideration. Full article

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15 pages, 3628 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Evaluation of Triladyl^® and Andromed^® Extenders Combined with Pre-Freezing Cooling Methods for Ram Semen Cryopreservation

by Abdallah M. Shahat, Montana Williams, Taeja Brisby, Joshua Woodard, Niki C. Whitley, Mahipal Singh, Brou Kouakou and Adel R. Moawad

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 991; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090991 - 19 Sep 2026

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Abstract

Cryopreservation can adversely affect the quality of ram spermatozoa, reducing their suitability for artificial insemination. Therefore, optimizing cryopreservation protocols, including extender composition and cooling procedures, is important for improving post-thaw sperm quality. Our aim was to assess the effects of two commercially available [...] Read more.

Cryopreservation can adversely affect the quality of ram spermatozoa, reducing their suitability for artificial insemination. Therefore, optimizing cryopreservation protocols, including extender composition and cooling procedures, is important for improving post-thaw sperm quality. Our aim was to assess the effects of two commercially available extenders (Triladyl^® and Andromed^®) and two cooling methods before freezing (cooling in 15 mL conical tube versus cooling in straws) on the quality of cryopreserved ram semen. Semen samples collected from five mature Katahdin rams once/week for four weeks were pooled and diluted in either Andromed^® or Triladyl^® to a final concentration of 800 × 10⁶ spermatozoa/mL. Samples were allocated into four treatment groups in a 2 × 2 factorial design: Triladyl^® package-then-cool (T1), Triladyl^® cool-then-package (T2), Andromed^® package-then-cool (A1), and Andromed^® cool-then-package (A2). In the cool-then-package method, semen was cooled in 15 mL conical tubes before being loaded into 0.25 mL French straws, whereas in the package-then-cool method, semen was first loaded into the straws and then cooled. All groups were kept at 4 °C for 3 h before freezing. Samples were subsequently frozen in a programmable freezer (MiniDigitcool, IMV^®), stored in liquid nitrogen, and thawed later for analysis. Following thawing, sperm motility (using CASA), viability and abnormalities (using trypan-blue stain), membrane integrity (by hypos-osmotic swelling (HOS) test), acrosome status (by Hoechst 33342/FITC-PNA), mitochondrial activity (using Hoechst 33342/Rhodamin 123), and lipid peroxidation (using BODIPY 581/591 C11) were evaluated. Total motility, acrosome status, mitochondrial activity, and lipid peroxidation showed extender effects (p < 0.05). However, progressive motility, and membrane integrity showed cooling effects (p < 0.05). Moreover, among the four treatment groups, the percentages of motile sperm, live sperm, sperm with intact acrosomes, and sperm with active mitochondria were the highest (p < 0.05) in the Triladyl^® cool-then-package (T2; 31.1 ± 2.1, 26.7 ± 2.3, 66.3 ± 1.9, 76.2 ± 1.1, and 78.0 ± 1.2, respectively) group. Meanwhile, the percentages of abnormal and lipid peroxidation-positive sperm were the lowest (p < 0.05) in the same group (18.0 ± 0.7 and 12.3 ± 1.0, respectively). In conclusion, cryopreservation of ram semen using the Triladyl^® extender in combination with the cool-then-package method resulted in superior post-thaw sperm quality than other extender and cooling procedures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sperm Biotechnology in Animals Reproduction—2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 9259 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Monitoring Paradox: Frontal Electroencephalography Reveals Profound Cortical Depression Despite Cardiovascular Stability in Dogs Undergoing Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy with Isoflurane Anesthesia and Multimodal Analgesic Protocols

by Jeff C. Ko, Alejandro Vargas Araya, Carla Murillo, Hsin-Yi Weng, Ann B. Weil and Tomohito Inoue

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090990 - 19 Sep 2026

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Abstract

Conventional monitoring relies on autonomic reflexes but fails to directly measure cortical hypnosis, creating a critical information gap regarding true brain state. The objective of this article was to evaluate the cardiorespiratory and cortical responses using frontal EEG and parasympathetic tone activity (PTA) [...] Read more.

Conventional monitoring relies on autonomic reflexes but fails to directly measure cortical hypnosis, creating a critical information gap regarding true brain state. The objective of this article was to evaluate the cardiorespiratory and cortical responses using frontal EEG and parasympathetic tone activity (PTA) in dogs under isoflurane anesthesia and distinct analgesic protocols. Twenty-one adult dogs (n = 7 per group) undergoing tibial plateau leveling osteotomies were assessed at 12 procedural time points using heart rate, blood pressure, Patient State Index (PSI), suppression ratio (SR), and PTA. Treatments included isoflurane maintenance with either intravenous fentanyl, epidural morphine, or regional local blocks. Despite clinically acceptable cardiorespiratory indices, significant treatment-by-time interactions occurred for PSI (

p = 0.003

) and SR (

p = 0.050

). The fentanyl group experienced the deepest cortical suppression and highest Double-Low state incidence compared to epidural morphine (

p = 0.024

). Rapid emergence from these suppressed states yielded dysphoric recoveries in 9 of 21 dogs. In conclusion, evaluating cardiorespiratory and cortical responses demonstrates that standard autonomic monitoring can mask severe intraoperative cortical depression; integrating EEG and PTA offers a valuable approach to optimizing neurophysiological stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Approaches in the Perioperative Management of Companion Animals and Livestock)

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16 pages, 986 KB

Open AccessArticle

Indoxyl Sulfate, Cardiac Biomarkers, and Left Ventricular Wall Thickening in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease

by Murat Akbaba, Idil Bastan, Filiz Bakar-Ates and Osman Safa Terzi

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090989 - 19 Sep 2026

Viewed by 335

Abstract

Factors associated with left ventricular wall thickening (LVWT) in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) remain unclear. This prospective observational study compared renal variables, systolic blood pressure (SBP), echocardiographic measurements, cardiac biomarkers, and uremic toxins in 31 cats: 12 with CKD without LVWT, [...] Read more.

Factors associated with left ventricular wall thickening (LVWT) in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) remain unclear. This prospective observational study compared renal variables, systolic blood pressure (SBP), echocardiographic measurements, cardiac biomarkers, and uremic toxins in 31 cats: 12 with CKD without LVWT, 8 with CKD and LVWT, and 11 healthy controls. LVWT was defined as IVSd and/or LVPWd ≥ 6 mm in at least two of three examinations. IRIS stage distribution did not differ between the CKD groups (p = 1.000). Urea, creatinine, and phosphorus concentrations were higher in both CKD groups than in controls but were similar between CKD groups. SBP, NT-proBNP, and cardiac troponin I concentrations were highest in the CKD-LVWT group (p < 0.001). Plasma indoxyl sulfate concentrations were significantly higher in the CKD-LVWT group than in both other groups, whereas serum p-cresyl sulfate concentrations did not differ between CKD groups. However, SBP was markedly higher in the CKD-LVWT group and represents a major potential confounder. However, because SBP was also higher in the CKD-LVWT group and reliable multivariable adjustment could not be performed, the independent contribution of indoxyl sulfate could not be determined. The observed association may have been influenced by systemic hypertension, CKD stage, antihypertensive treatment and adherence, and other potential confounders and should not be interpreted as independent or causal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases in Small Animals)

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21 pages, 1797 KB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Classification of Tropical Cattle Feeding Systems Reveals Consistent Associations with Dairy Lipid Quality, Enteric Methane Emissions, and Preclinical Metabolic Outcomes: A Multi-Study Narrative Synthesis

by Mario Cuchillo-Hilario, Margarita Díaz-Martínez, Gustavo Flores-Coello, Claudia Delgadillo-Puga and José Nahed-Toral

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090988 - 18 Sep 2026

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Abstract

Administrative labels such as “organic” or “pasture-fed” animal food products inadequately capture the biological complexity of dairy production systems and consequently fail to differentiate potentially meaningful associations with nutritional quality, environmental impact and consumers’ health. We developed a functional classification framework based on [...] Read more.

Administrative labels such as “organic” or “pasture-fed” animal food products inadequately capture the biological complexity of dairy production systems and consequently fail to differentiate potentially meaningful associations with nutritional quality, environmental impact and consumers’ health. We developed a functional classification framework based on three measurable traits: (1) botanical diversity, (2) concentrate dependence, and (3) input intensity, and applied it to six observational and/or experimental studies from tropical Mexico (n = 109 farms across Yucatán, Chiapas, and Colima federal states). Animal production systems were categorized as: (a) biodiverse grazing (silvopastoral, organic, or traditional grazing; >15 plant species or 8–14 species with concentrate < 25% dry matter intake and no synthetic inputs) or (b) conventional (monoculture/indoor systems; <5 plant species or 6–10 species with concentrate >40% with a use of agrochemicals). Biodiverse grazing systems produced lower daily milk yields (6.1 vs. 7.7 L d⁻¹; p < 0.0001) but yielded milk with more favorable cardiovascular lipid indices: atherogenic index (AI: 1.6–2.2 vs. 1.9–2.5), thrombogenic index (TI: 2.3–2.7 vs. 2.3–3.1), and health promotion index (HPI: 0.46–0.67 vs. 0.40–0.54). Artisan cheese from biodiverse systems contained substantially higher concentrations of tocopherols (127 vs. 77 mg 100 g⁻¹ DM) and monoterpenes (460–475 vs. 111–126 ng kg⁻¹). An intensive silvopastoral system reduced enteric methane emissions by 18.2% (376 vs. 460 g d⁻¹; p < 0.05) and by 21.3% per unit dry matter intake (24.0 vs. 30.5 g kg⁻¹ DMI; p < 0.0001). Forage nutritional quality (crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber) varied by species and season, with these parameters influencing estimated methane emissions. In a C57BL/6 murine model of high-fat diet-induced obesity, milk from biodiverse silvopastoral systems attenuated body weight gain (30.5 vs. 36.8 g; p < 0.05), preserved glucose tolerance (AUC: 32,616 vs. 45,248), nearly eliminated hepatic macrovesicular steatosis, and promoted smaller adipocyte size (1863 vs. 3880 µm²; p < 0.05) compared with conventional milk. These findings suggest that functional ecological traits provide a useful framework for evaluating dairy systems, with biodiverse grazing offering a potential convergence of environmental sustainability and preclinical health benefits. Nevertheless, external validation across diverse tropical regions and direct human intervention trials remain necessary to establish generalizability, and the associations identified should be considered hypothesis-generating rather than confirmatory. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Feed to Function: Exploring Nutritional Strategies for Ruminant Health, Sustainable Feeding Practices, and Food Quality)

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13 pages, 4050 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Immunohistochemical Detection, In Situ Distribution, and Comparison of Tuft Cells and Other Selected Components of Mucosal Immunity in Nasal Turbinates of Piglets Challenged with Rotavirus from Sows Fed Vitamin A-Deficient Diets with or Without Vitamin A Supplementation

by Kwonil Jung, Anastasia N. Vlasova and Linda J. Saif

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090987 - 18 Sep 2026

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Abstract

Tuft cells are a rare type of epithelial cell that are essential to regulate innate and adaptive immune responses. Mucosal immunity is also composed primarily of IgA produced by B cells that is secreted onto mucosal surfaces as secretory IgA via the polymeric [...] Read more.

Tuft cells are a rare type of epithelial cell that are essential to regulate innate and adaptive immune responses. Mucosal immunity is also composed primarily of IgA produced by B cells that is secreted onto mucosal surfaces as secretory IgA via the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR). The homing of B cells in lymphoid organs is mediated by certain adhesion receptors, such as α4β7 and chemokine receptor 9 (CCR9), that bind to the specific vascular ligands, mucosal vascular addressin cell adhesion molecule 1 (MAdCAM-1) and chemokine ligand 25 (CCL25), respectively. It is unclear whether tuft cells, MAdCAM-1, CCL25, and pIgR are present or expressed in the nasal cavities of pigs. Our study aimed to develop immunohistochemistry (IHC) or immunofluorescence (IF) staining for the detection of tuft cells, MAdCAM-1, CCL25, pIgR, and IgA- or IgG-positive cells in porcine nasal turbinates. The tissues were acquired from the piglets of two different treatment groups in our previous studies that investigated the impact of oral vitamin A supplementation (VA) on the maternal immunity of vitamin A-deficient (VAD) sows and the passive protection of their piglets against rotavirus A (RVA): (1) VAD + VA + RVA and (2) VAD + RVA piglets. Our IHC staining revealed that low numbers of advillin-positive, bottle-shaped cells that morphologically resemble tuft cells were present in the mucosal epithelium and the mucous duct or glands. There were also moderate to large amounts of MAdCAM-1 and CCL25 in the endothelial cells lining the vascular structures present in the lamina propria of nasal turbinates and moderate to large amounts of pIgR in the turbinate mucosal epithelium. Moderate to high numbers of IgA- or IgG-positive cells were present in the lamina propria. There were no differences in IF- or IHC-positive scores or the positive cell numbers of all parameters tested between VAD + VA + RVA and VAD + RVA piglets, suggesting little or no effect of VA on the parameters tested. Our study demonstrated the use of IHC/IF staining methods for the detection of tuft cells, MAdCAM-1, CCL25, pIgR, and IgA- or IgG-positive cells in porcine nasal turbinates, expanding our understanding of the in situ distribution and comparison in the nasal cavity of pigs born to the sows fed vitamin A-deficient diets with or without vitamin A supplementation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Anatomy, Histology and Pathology)

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2 pages, 132 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: El-Sayed et al. Genomic Variants, Transcriptomic Profile, Ultrasonographic Findings, and Antioxidant and Immunological Biomarkers Linked to Pregnancy Toxemia Susceptibility in Goats. Vet. Sci. 2025, 12, 891

by Ahmed El-Sayed, Mohamed Marzok, Huda A. Alqahtani, Amin Tahoun, Adel I. Almubarak, Rasha Yassin Elkhidr, Zakriya Al Mohamed, Elshymaa A. Abdelnaby, Hussein Babiker, Hanan M. Alharbi, Khairiah M. Alwutayd and Ahmed Ateya

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 986; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090986 - 18 Sep 2026

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Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Markers in Ruminant Reproduction)

10 pages, 1049 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Cytologic and Cytochemical Characterization of Blue-Green Neutrophilic Inclusions in a Dog with Suspected Transfusion-Associated Hemolysis

by Hyun-Jeong Hwang, Myung Hyun Choi, Hyo-Sung Kim and Sun Hee Do

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090985 - 18 Sep 2026

Viewed by 176

Abstract

An 11-year-old castrated male Maltese dog presented with acute lethargy and non-regenerative anemia. Despite immunosuppressive therapy and an initial packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusion, hematocrit levels progressively declined after transient improvement. A second transfusion was administered following compatible crossmatch testing. Within 24 [...] Read more.

An 11-year-old castrated male Maltese dog presented with acute lethargy and non-regenerative anemia. Despite immunosuppressive therapy and an initial packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusion, hematocrit levels progressively declined after transient improvement. A second transfusion was administered following compatible crossmatch testing. Within 24 h of the second transfusion, a transfusion-associated hemolytic episode was suspected due to a rapid hematocrit decline, pigmenturia, hyperbilirubinemia, and autoagglutination. Peripheral blood smear revealed neutrophils containing coarse blue-green cytoplasmic inclusions. Special staining and autofluorescence microscopy supported lipid-rich, acid-fast, and autofluorescent properties of the inclusions. Prussian blue staining showed iron-positive granular material in the hemolytic sample, but the intraneutrophilic inclusions did not show distinct Prussian blue reactivity, making hemosiderin-rich sideroleukocytes unlikely to fully explain the findings. Similar inclusions have recently been characterized in dogs, mainly in association with severe hepatocellular injury, pancreatitis, and poor short-term outcomes; however, their occurrence during acute clinical deterioration associated with suspected post-transfusion hemolysis has not been specifically documented. The dog died three days after inclusion detection. This case expands the clinical settings in which blue-green leukocyte cytoplasmic inclusions may be encountered in dogs. Full article

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18 pages, 747 KB

Open AccessReview

p53 in Canine Mammary Tumors: From Molecular Pathogenesis to Biomarker Applications and Comparative Oncology

by Ziqiao Wang, Yi Qin, Yongping Zeng, Shan Liao, Xiaoqi Tao and Xiao Liu

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090984 - 18 Sep 2026

Viewed by 370

Abstract

Canine mammary tumors (CMTs) are common neoplasms in female dogs and serve as an important naturally occurring model for studying human breast cancer. The p53 protein plays an important role in CMT biology, with alterations in the p53 pathway implicated in tumor development, [...] Read more.

Canine mammary tumors (CMTs) are common neoplasms in female dogs and serve as an important naturally occurring model for studying human breast cancer. The p53 protein plays an important role in CMT biology, with alterations in the p53 pathway implicated in tumor development, progression, and tumor microenvironment regulation. However, reported frequencies of TP53 mutations and p53 expression vary among CMT studies, and their associations with malignancy are not uniform. Thus, p53 has potential as a biomarker for CMT, although its clinical applicability requires standardized assessment and further validation. Studies examining p53 in combination with other molecular markers, p53–miRNA interactions, and the role of p53 in chemoresistance further highlight its potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic relevance. This review synthesizes current evidence on TP53/p53 alterations, biological functions, and biomarker applications in CMT, with particular emphasis on evidence heterogeneity, methodological limitations, and species-specific differences relevant to comparative oncology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Small Animal Oncology)

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16 pages, 3540 KB

Open AccessHypothesis

PRRSV Fetal Infection in Pigs as a Risk Factor for the Emergence of More Efficient Zoonotic Hosts for Swine-Origin Influenza Virus

by Uladzimir Karniychuk

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 983; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090983 - 17 Sep 2026

Viewed by 316

Abstract

Domestic pigs are susceptible to avian, swine, and human influenza A viruses (IAVs). This facilitates co-infections of different IAVs that result in genetic reassortment. In combination with husbandry practices such as high-density farming and frequent human–pig interactions, pigs serve as efficient zoonotic hosts [...] Read more.

Domestic pigs are susceptible to avian, swine, and human influenza A viruses (IAVs). This facilitates co-infections of different IAVs that result in genetic reassortment. In combination with husbandry practices such as high-density farming and frequent human–pig interactions, pigs serve as efficient zoonotic hosts for IAV. Despite significance in zoonotic transmission, factors influencing IAV pathogenesis, evolution, and transmission in pigs remain poorly studied. One factor that may alter IAV dynamics in pigs is co-infection with endemic swine viruses such as porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV; Betaarterivirus; Nidovirales) that causes widespread disease in pigs on farms globally. During initial outbreaks, PRRSV triggers transplacental infections and massive fetal loss in naïve herds. Once herd immunity or vaccination is established, PRRSV may persist in affected herds, resulting in transplacental infections and the birth of piglets that appear normal or weak. These piglets are concerning from a zoonotic perspective because they may be immunocompromised and potentially serve as more efficient hosts for IAV, characterized by prolonged IAV shedding, enhanced viral replication, impaired seroconversion, and consequently extended co-infection windows that favor reassortment. Here, I summarize studies supporting the hypothesis that fetal exposure to PRRSV can alter IAV pathogenesis in surviving piglets, potentially enhancing IAV pathogenesis and transmission. I also highlight key experiments that need to be conducted to validate or invalidate a causal relationship between fetal PRRSV infection, persistent immunopathology in surviving piglets, and the resulting permissive environment for enhanced IAV evolution and transmission. Addressing this knowledge gap is essential for advancing our understanding of PRRSV and IAV biology in its zoonotic pig host and for developing effective strategies to mitigate the risk of IAV spillovers to humans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis, Epidemiology, and Vaccine Development of Swine Viral Diseases—3rd Edition)

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12 pages, 1373 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Non-Oliguric IRIS Grade V Acute Kidney Injury Associated with Suspected Leptospirosis in an Urban Dog Unvaccinated Against Leptospirosis from the Republic of Korea: A Case Report

by Taehyun Roh and Kunho Song

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090982 - 17 Sep 2026

Viewed by 270

Abstract

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease that can cause severe acute kidney injury (AKI) in dogs. A three-year-old intact male Border Collie, unvaccinated against leptospirosis, with a history of exposure to urban stagnant water presented with acute vomiting, diarrhea, and moderate dehydration. Initial evaluation [...] Read more.

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease that can cause severe acute kidney injury (AKI) in dogs. A three-year-old intact male Border Collie, unvaccinated against leptospirosis, with a history of exposure to urban stagnant water presented with acute vomiting, diarrhea, and moderate dehydration. Initial evaluation revealed extreme azotemia (blood urea nitrogen, 175.8 mg/dL; creatinine, 11.10 mg/dL) and hyperphosphatemia (13.6 mg/dL), consistent with International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) AKI Grade V; urine output remained within the non-oliguric range (2.15–3.0 mL/kg/h) throughout the catheterized period (Day 0–4). Clinical and imaging findings supported acute intrinsic renal injury over chronic kidney disease. A multiplex real-time PCR targeting the Leptospira LipL32 gene was positive in urine (Ct 31.10), providing molecular evidence supporting active infection or shedding of pathogenic Leptospira spp., without identifying the infecting serovar. Empirical antimicrobial therapy targeting suspected leptospirosis, together with intravenous fluid therapy, was initiated on clinical suspicion prior to the PCR result. Renal and inflammatory biomarkers improved progressively over 22 days without extracorporeal kidney support; the patient’s non-oliguric status, hemodynamic stability, and objective clinical improvement supported this management approach. This report documents, in detail, the clinicopathological recovery trajectory of a dog with non-oliguric IRIS Grade V AKI associated with suspected leptospirosis, information that may assist clinicians in recognizing and managing similarly severe presentations without assuming that dialysis is always required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases of Animals)

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13 pages, 904 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Self-Directed Multimodal Digital Training on Veterinary Students’ Ability to Interpret Equine Heart Sounds

by Chiara Bozzola, Dania Cingottini, Francesca Bindi, Micaela Sgorbini, Tommaso Vezzosi and Enrica Zucca

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 981; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090981 - 17 Sep 2026

Viewed by 343

Abstract

Cardiac auscultation is a fundamental clinical skill for veterinary graduates; however, acquiring this competence remains challenging because opportunities for repeated exposure to a wide range of cardiac abnormalities may often be limited during undergraduate training. This study evaluated whether supplementing written self-directed learning [...] Read more.

Cardiac auscultation is a fundamental clinical skill for veterinary graduates; however, acquiring this competence remains challenging because opportunities for repeated exposure to a wide range of cardiac abnormalities may often be limited during undergraduate training. This study evaluated whether supplementing written self-directed learning with digital equine phonocardiographic recordings improves veterinary students’ ability to recognize and interpret equine cardiac auscultation findings. Forty-one fourth-year veterinary students from the Universities of Milan and Pisa were voluntarily enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either written learning materials alone (Group 1, n = 21) or the same materials supplemented with digital phonocardiographic recordings (Group 2, n = 20). Participants completed a baseline test (T0). After a four-week self-directed learning period, 30 students (Group 1 = 15; Group 2 = 15) completed the post-training test (T1) and were included in the final analysis. The statistical analysis provided no significant differences for the total score (p = 0.064) or Q1 score (p = 0.349), whereas a significant difference was observed for Q2 score (p = 0.039), showing greater improvement in Group 2. These findings suggest a potential educational benefit of supplementing written learning materials with digital phonocardiographic recordings, particularly for the ability to distinguish among different cardiac abnormalities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Equine Veterinary Education: Clinical Training, Competency Development, and Global Perspectives)

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16 pages, 1141 KB

Open AccessArticle

Immunohistochemical Evaluation of RUNX2, Osteocalcin, and Vimentin in Feline Primary Pulmonary Carcinomas

by Alexandra Morar, Corina Toma, Dragoș Hodor, Mara-Georgiana Haralambie, Iulia Pană, Alexia-Teodora Hoța, Diana Bochynska, Claudiu Gal and Cornel Cătoi

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090980 - 17 Sep 2026

Viewed by 311

Abstract

Feline primary pulmonary carcinomas (PPCs) occasionally exhibit a distinctive metastatic tropism for the distal digits, clinically recognized as feline lung-digit syndrome or MODAL syndrome. The molecular mechanisms driving this unique behavior remain poorly understood. This retrospective study evaluated 18 feline PPCs to investigate [...] Read more.

Feline primary pulmonary carcinomas (PPCs) occasionally exhibit a distinctive metastatic tropism for the distal digits, clinically recognized as feline lung-digit syndrome or MODAL syndrome. The molecular mechanisms driving this unique behavior remain poorly understood. This retrospective study evaluated 18 feline PPCs to investigate the expression of bone-related markers (RUNX2, osteocalcin), vimentin, Ki-67, MCK, and TTF-1. Cases were classified into PPCs with (n = 5) and without (n = 13) documented digital metastases. Adenosquamous carcinoma was the predominant histological subtype (61.1%); all tumors expressed MCK and TTF-1. While osteocalcin and aberrant vimentin expression were detected across both groups, they did not differ significantly between groups. Conversely, RUNX2 nuclear immunoreactivity was significantly elevated in cases with digital metastasis (p = 0.006). Furthermore, the evaluation of matched primary and metastatic lesions demonstrated that digital metastases retained the histological and immunophenotypic profiles of their primary tumors. Overall, this first characterization demonstrates that higher RUNX2 immunoreactivity was observed in primary pulmonary carcinomas from cats with documented digital metastasis. However, without the evaluation of extra-digital metastases, it remains undetermined whether this reflects a specific tropism for the digits or a general metastatic competence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Focus on Tumours in Pet Animals: 3rd Edition)

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19 pages, 28552 KB

Open AccessArticle

NS1 of Duck Tembusu Virus Interacts with CCT2: Reduced CCT2 Recovery in LC3C Co-Immunoprecipitation In Vitro and the Proviral Role of CCT2 in DTMUV Infection

by Zekun Yang, Haixia Feng, Qiongjie Wang, Chengwei Xiang, Yin Han, Fei Xu, Mengyao Jing, Hongmei Li, Jianhua Liang, Xianming He, Ruiai Chen and Ting Xiong

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 979; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090979 - 17 Sep 2026

Viewed by 227

Abstract

Regulation of Duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV) non-structural protein 1 (NS1) remains unclear. Exogenous and endogenous co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assays demonstrated an association between the T-complex protein 1 subunit 2 (CCT2) and NS1. Further experiments mapped the NS1 region required for assembly of this complex [...] Read more.

Regulation of Duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV) non-structural protein 1 (NS1) remains unclear. Exogenous and endogenous co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assays demonstrated an association between the T-complex protein 1 subunit 2 (CCT2) and NS1. Further experiments mapped the NS1 region required for assembly of this complex to amino acid residues 172-352 of NS1.DTMUV increased CCT2 expression; CCT2 overexpression increased NS1 accumulation, whereas CCT2 knockdown delayed NS1 and envelope (E) protein accumulation. Although NS1 also associated with chaperonin-containing T-complex protein 1 subunit 6 (CCT6), CCT6 knockdown did not significantly alter NS1 messenger RNA (mRNA) or clearly change NS1 protein abundance. NS1 underwent lysine 48 (K48)- and lysine 63 (K63)-linked polyubiquitination. Increasing tripartite motif-containing protein 21 (TRIM21) reduced NS1 abundance and enhanced NS1-associated ubiquitin signals; the proteasome inhibitor MG132 promoted NS1 accumulation, which was highest with CCT2 co-expression, supporting proteasome-related turnover and CCT2-associated stabilization without establishing direct TRIM21 ubiquitination. CCT2 interacted with microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3C (LC3C), and DTMUV infection was associated with reduced late-stage lipidated LC3 (LC3-II) abundance and SQSTM1 mRNA expression. In dose-gradient Co-IP experiments, increasing NS1 expression was associated with a dose-associated reduction in CCT2 recovery in LC3C immunoprecipitates; the concomitant reduction in immunoprecipitated LC3C across the NS1 dose gradient precludes conclusions regarding direct competition or a binding capacity-dependent mechanism. These findings indicate that CCT2 is a DTMUV-associated host factor capable of stabilizing intracellular NS1 protein and promoting the production of infectious DTMUV progeny. CCT2 contributes to the homeostasis of NS1 protein. Full article

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13 pages, 284 KB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Detection of Feline Hemotropic Mycoplasma from Blood Samples of Sick Cats: A Comparative Study Between a Commercial Nucleic Acid Test Card and Conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction

by Burin Nimsuphan, Sakchai Ruenphet, Chanya Kengradomkij, Nutsuda Klinkaew and Ketsarin Kamyingkird

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 978; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090978 - 17 Sep 2026

Viewed by 472

Abstract

Feline hemotropic mycoplasmosis presents a diagnostic challenge in clinical practice because of the variable pathogenicity of Mycoplasma species and the limited sensitivity of conventional blood smear examination, highlighting the need for rapid and accurate point-of-care molecular diagnosis. This study aimed to evaluate the [...] Read more.

Feline hemotropic mycoplasmosis presents a diagnostic challenge in clinical practice because of the variable pathogenicity of Mycoplasma species and the limited sensitivity of conventional blood smear examination, highlighting the need for rapid and accurate point-of-care molecular diagnosis. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the Pluslife^® Feline Hemotropic Mycoplasma (FHM) nucleic acid test card and to determine the detection frequency of the pathogen among clinically ill cats presented to a veterinary teaching hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. Whole blood samples were collected from 114 clinically ill cats presented to Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital between September 2025 and May 2026. The nucleic acid test card assay was evaluated against conventional PCR targeting the 16S rRNA gene as the reference method. PCR identified ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ (CMhm) as the predominant Mycoplasma species (45.61%), followed by Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf; 5.26%) and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’ (CMt; 0.88%). Compared with conventional PCR, the nucleic acid test card assay demonstrated a sensitivity of 93.22%, specificity of 96.36%, overall accuracy of 94.74%, and precision of 96.49%, with results available within 30 min. Sequence analysis of discordant samples confirmed CMhm in four false-negative specimens, suggesting that low bacterial burdens or other assay-related factors may have contributed to the discordant results. Overall, the Pluslife^® FHM assay demonstrated high diagnostic performance and may provide a practical rapid molecular point-of-care tool to support timely diagnosis and clinical decision-making in cats with suspected hemotropic mycoplasmosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology)

17 pages, 919 KB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Detection and Phylogenetic Characterization of CPV-2c in Apparently Healthy Domestic Cats in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area, Mexico

by Sandra Del Carmen Robles Gil-Bernal, Darwin Elizondo-Quiroga, Jeannette Barba-León, Claudia Lisette Charles-Niño, Ana Samatzin Leal-Pimentel, Jorge Gaona Bernal and César Pedroza-Roldán

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090977 - 17 Sep 2026

Viewed by 855

Abstract

Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 variants (CPV-2a, CPV-2b, CPV-2c) have progressively expanded their host range to domestic cats (Felis catus), causing subclinical infection or panleukopenia-like disease. CPV-2c dominates among dogs in Western Mexico, but its presence in the local feline population had not been investigated. [...] Read more.

Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 variants (CPV-2a, CPV-2b, CPV-2c) have progressively expanded their host range to domestic cats (Felis catus), causing subclinical infection or panleukopenia-like disease. CPV-2c dominates among dogs in Western Mexico, but its presence in the local feline population had not been investigated. A cross-sectional survey was conducted (2018–2022) in 210 apparently healthy domestic cats from five municipalities of the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area, Jalisco, Mexico. Genomic DNA from EDTA-anticoagulated blood was screened by generic protoparvovirus PCR; positive samples were characterized by CPV-2-specific VP2 PCR and Sanger sequencing, with variant classification based on VP2 residue 426, and phylogenetic relationships assessed by maximum-likelihood analysis (T92+I model; 1000 bootstrap replicates). Carnivore protoparvovirus 1 DNA was detected in 14/210 cats (6.7%); 13/14 sequenced isolates were classified as CPV-2c (Glu426, >99% nucleotide identity), clustering with regional canine strains and showing greatest affinity with Uruguayan isolates. In a Firth bias-reduced multivariable model adjusting for age and vaccination status, shared litter box use remained independently associated with detection (adjusted OR 18.03; 95% CI 3.30–98.58); the age association was attenuated after adjustment, suggesting incomplete vaccination, rather than age itself, as the more proximal risk factor. Free-roaming/outdoor access and hunting behavior showed direct crude associations with detection (OR 3.82 and 7.22, respectively). These findings show that cats can harbor CPV-2c DNA in blood without clinical signs, phylogenetically linked to local canine strains, underscoring the need for integrated CPV-2 surveillance across companion species; however, whether infected cats can transmit the virus remains undetermined. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viral Diseases in Animals: Epidemiology, Diagnosis and Control)

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18 pages, 2127 KB

Open AccessArticle

Gram-Negative Bacterial Overgrowth Predominated by: Potential Association with Intestinal Barrier Impairment and Inflammatory Diarrhea in Cats

by Jing Wang, Xinhui Zhang, Xinran Song, Yan He, Wuying Lang and Xinyu Zhang

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090976 - 17 Sep 2026

Viewed by 305

Abstract

Background: Feline diarrhea is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders encountered in veterinary clinics. Dysbiosis of Gram-negative bacteria is widely presumed to be a key cause of this disease, yet adequate in vivo evidence demonstrating its roles in provoking inflammation and impairing [...] Read more.

Background: Feline diarrhea is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders encountered in veterinary clinics. Dysbiosis of Gram-negative bacteria is widely presumed to be a key cause of this disease, yet adequate in vivo evidence demonstrating its roles in provoking inflammation and impairing intestinal barrier integrity is still lacking. In this study, we investigated the effects of bacterial flora in cats with diarrhea on gut health in mice. Results: The results show the following: (1) Microorganisms in feces of diarrheal cats can cause weight loss in antibiotic-treated mice; the histopathological section of the colon showed that neutrophil aggregation occurred in the colon of mice in the fecal bacteria transplantation group; this indicates that gavage using fecal microbes from diarrheic cats could impair intestinal barrier integrity in antibiotic-treated recipient mice. (2) In addition, microbes in cats with diarrhea can induce inflammation in the colon and aggregation of macrophages, which may be caused by some Gram-negative bacteria in feces of cats with diarrhea. (3) The composition of the intestinal microbial community was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and it was found that the relative abundance of Escherichia–Shigella in feces of cats with diarrhea was significantly higher than that of normal cats. (4) Quantitative analysis of fecal samples revealed that diarrheic cats exhibited a significantly higher load of fecal Gram-negative bacteria compared with healthy cats, verifying that excessive colonization of Gram-negative bacteria may be highly correlated with feline diarrhea. Conclusion: In summary, fecal microbes from diarrheic cats are capable of triggering intestinal inflammation and barrier damage in antibiotic-treated mice. Excessive proliferation of Gram-negative bacteria, mainly Escherichia–Shigella species, may be highly associated with feline diarrhea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogens in Wildlife and Companion Animal: From Discovery to One Health Implications)

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11 pages, 928 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Resolution of Regenerative Anemia, Thrombocytopenia, and Syncope After Cytoreduction of an Infiltrative Angiolipoma in a Dog: A Case Report

by Jaeyong Chung, Tae-Seong Moon and Hwi-Yool Kim

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 975; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090975 - 17 Sep 2026

Viewed by 260

Abstract

Angiolipomas are uncommon benign mesenchymal neoplasms composed of mature adipocytes and proliferating vascular channels. In dogs, infiltrative angiolipomas are rarely reported and have primarily been described as localized soft-tissue masses. An 11-year-old, 10.8 kg, castrated male Japanese Spitz was referred for evaluation of regenerative [...] Read more.

Angiolipomas are uncommon benign mesenchymal neoplasms composed of mature adipocytes and proliferating vascular channels. In dogs, infiltrative angiolipomas are rarely reported and have primarily been described as localized soft-tissue masses. An 11-year-old, 10.8 kg, castrated male Japanese Spitz was referred for evaluation of regenerative anemia, mild thrombocytopenia, recurrent syncopal episodes, and a 5-year history of a slowly enlarging ventral thoracic mass. Preoperative hematological evaluation demonstrated anemia with a hematocrit of 25.4% and an increased absolute reticulocyte count of 122.7 K/µL, supporting a regenerative erythropoietic response. The platelet count was mildly decreased at 109 × 10³/µL. D-dimer concentration was increased (737.61 ng/mL; reference interval, 0–250 ng/mL), whereas prothrombin time (9.5 s; reference interval, 5–15 s) and activated partial thromboplastin time (15.6 s; reference interval, 15–45 s) were within their reference intervals. Referral history indicated that previous infectious and immune-mediated evaluations had not identified a definitive cause, although the original external testing records were unavailable for verification. Computed tomography revealed a heterogeneous subcutaneous mass with mixed fat- and soft-tissue-attenuating components, suspected infiltration of the superficial pectoral muscle, and focal rather than diffuse contrast enhancement. Surgical cytoreduction, including partial myectomy, was performed because complete excision was not considered feasible owing to deep muscular infiltration. Histopathological examination confirmed an infiltrative angiolipoma characterized by mature adipocytes, numerous vascular channels, skeletal muscle infiltration, and frequent intravascular fibrin thrombi. Following surgery, the hematological abnormalities progressively improved without blood transfusion or long-term immunosuppressive therapy. The platelet count increased from 109 × 10³/µL preoperatively to 153 × 10³/µL by postoperative day 16 and 202 × 10³/µL by postoperative day 56. During the same period, the hematocrit increased from 25.4% to 45.0%, and the absolute reticulocyte count subsequently returned to the reference interval. The syncopal episodes ceased after surgery and did not recur during the available 12-month follow-up. Fibrinogen concentration and peripheral blood smear evaluation were unavailable, and serial postoperative coagulation testing was not performed. Accordingly, the temporal association between tumor cytoreduction and hematological improvement raises the possibility of a tumor-associated process, but neither the underlying mechanism nor a causal relationship could be established. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Surgery)

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23 pages, 1153 KB

Open AccessArticle

Isoliquiritigenin Elicits Potent Antiviral Activity Against Pseudorabies Virus Through Modulating the cGAS/STING and JAK/STAT Signaling Cascades

by Hongqiao Hu, Ying Yang, Jinbin Zhang, Yican Wang, Xun Zhou, Lixia Li, Yuanfeng Zou, Mingyue Li, Shujun Dai, Yifei Lang and Xu Song

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 974; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090974 - 16 Sep 2026

Viewed by 246

Abstract

Pseudorabies virus (PRV), a member of the Alphaherpesvirinae subfamily, poses a significant economic threat to the global swine industry and has raised growing public health concerns due to its cross-species transmission potential. Given emerging variants and the fact that current vaccines are restricted [...] Read more.

Pseudorabies virus (PRV), a member of the Alphaherpesvirinae subfamily, poses a significant economic threat to the global swine industry and has raised growing public health concerns due to its cross-species transmission potential. Given emerging variants and the fact that current vaccines are restricted to pigs, novel antiviral agents are urgently needed. The present study assessed the anti-PRV activity of isoliquiritigenin, as well as its modulatory role in innate immune pathways, using cell-based assays and a PRV-infected mouse model. The results showed that isoliquiritigenin exhibited a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of 35.47 μM and a selective index of 3.34 in PK-15 cells, with efficacy sustained at high infectious dose. Mechanistically, it counteracted PRV-induced suppression of type I interferon responses, correlating with core genes in the cGAS/STING pathway and enhancing IRF3 phosphorylation, while also activating the JAK/STAT axis and increasing STAT1 phosphorylation. In vivo, treatment with isoliquiritigenin decreased mortality by 40 percentage points (from 70% to 30%), substantially suppressed viral burden in various tissues, and concomitantly activated type I interferon signaling. Collectively, these findings suggest that isoliquiritigenin potentiates host innate immunity, potentially through the cGAS/STING and JAK/STAT cascades, offering a novel flavonoid-based lead for anti-herpesvirus drug development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis, Epidemiology, and Vaccine Development of Swine Viral Diseases—3rd Edition)

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13 pages, 936 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hematologic and Renal Trends in Cats Undergoing Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy: A Retrospective Case Series with Molidustat Use

by Gippeum Lee, Jeongmin Lee and Kun-Ho Song

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 973; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090973 - 16 Sep 2026

Viewed by 293

Abstract

Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) can precipitate anemia in critically ill patients, but temporal hematologic trends and anemia management strategies in cats remain poorly characterized. Medical records of three client-owned cats treated with CRRT for severe acute kidney injury with evidence of pre-existing [...] Read more.

Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) can precipitate anemia in critically ill patients, but temporal hematologic trends and anemia management strategies in cats remain poorly characterized. Medical records of three client-owned cats treated with CRRT for severe acute kidney injury with evidence of pre-existing chronic kidney disease at a single referral center were retrospectively reviewed. Hematologic variables (hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, absolute reticulocyte count) and renal parameters (blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, phosphorus) were evaluated before, during, and after CRRT, along with the timing of CRRT sessions, whole blood transfusions, erythropoiesis-stimulating agent administration, and adjunctive molidustat use. All three cats demonstrated a progressive decline in hematocrit during the CRRT period despite repeated whole blood transfusions, with only transient post-transfusion improvement. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations decreased promptly following CRRT initiation but showed variable rebound patterns during follow-up. Absolute reticulocyte counts increased after CRRT discontinuation in two cats, indicating preserved or recovering erythropoietic activity, while one cat with concurrent inflammatory and infectious disease showed a minimal response. Progressive anemia occurred consistently despite transfusion support, highlighting the multifactorial nature of anemia during feline CRRT. These descriptive findings provide clinically relevant insight into anemia progression during feline CRRT and may inform the design of future prospective studies. Full article

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16 pages, 1449 KB

Open AccessReview

Improving the Quality of Lyophilized Animal Vaccines: A Review of Optimization Strategies for Freeze-Drying Processes

by Fangjing Huang, Jiajie Jiao, Zexi Wang, Hongying Jie, Jiahao He, Xiaoxin Zuo, Yanhong Zhao, Yu Lu, Jianhong Gu and Fang Lyu

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 972; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090972 - 16 Sep 2026

Viewed by 330

Abstract

Vacuum freeze-drying, commonly referred to as lyophilization, is one of the primary processes in vaccine industrial manufacturing. It offers significant advantages, including a marked extension of the shelf-life of dried products, effective preservation of biological activity, and user convenience. However, in the production [...] Read more.

Vacuum freeze-drying, commonly referred to as lyophilization, is one of the primary processes in vaccine industrial manufacturing. It offers significant advantages, including a marked extension of the shelf-life of dried products, effective preservation of biological activity, and user convenience. However, in the production of animal freeze-dried vaccines, the diverse nature of antigens, the complexity of heat-stable protectant formulations, and variations in manufacturing equipment pose substantial challenges to process design for animal freeze-dried vaccines. Commercially available animal freeze-dried vaccines commonly suffer from antigen potency loss, insufficient product stability, low production efficiency and high manufacturing costs. Freeze-drying process optimization can markedly improve the quality of freeze-dried vaccines, with key evaluation indicators including vaccine stability, shelf-life, sample morphology, and residual moisture content. Focusing on multiple types of animal vaccines, this review summarizes research advances in improving the quality of animal freeze-dried vaccines from the perspectives of modifying material properties, enhancing freezing-stage regulation, increasing the specific surface area for drying, and optimizing heat conduction. Finally, future research strategies for animal freeze-dried vaccines are prospected. Although numerous approaches have been proposed to enhance the quality of animal freeze-dried vaccines, comprehensive considerations from multiple dimensions are still required to provide more holistic theoretical support for cost reduction and efficiency improvement in the production of animal freeze-dried vaccines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Microbiome and Bioactive Substances in Human and Animal Health: Antibiotic Resistance, Database, Metabolism, Methodology, and Vaccine Design)

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33 pages, 2634 KB

Open AccessArticle

Farm-Level Biosecurity and Antimicrobial Use in Pig Production: An Integrated Inferential and Explainable Machine Learning Analysis

by Krisztián Vribék, Máté Farkas, Szilveszter Csorba, Miklós Süth, László Gombos, Ádám Kerek, Evelin Imre, Zoltán Somogyi, Ákos Jerzsele and Zsuzsa Farkas

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090971 - 16 Sep 2026

Viewed by 322

Abstract

Internal biosecurity may be associated with antimicrobial use (AMU) in pig production, but observational associations, predictions and explanations of fitted models answer different questions. We analysed 1110 farm–month–age-group units from 18 Hungarian pig farms; an original post hoc restriction retained 939 units from [...] Read more.

Internal biosecurity may be associated with antimicrobial use (AMU) in pig production, but observational associations, predictions and explanations of fitted models answer different questions. We analysed 1110 farm–month–age-group units from 18 Hungarian pig farms; an original post hoc restriction retained 939 units from 13 farms. The continuous endpoint was the natural logarithm of one plus a defined AMU index formed by summing substance-specific active ingredient mass-to-recorded-weight ratios. The study-specific biosecurity instrument was used for within-farm monitoring and was not externally validated. We retained a 2 × 2 matrix of unfiltered/filtered and composite/separate-variable models, with categorical animal-group separation, age-group adjustment and farm-cluster uncertainty. In the unfiltered separate-variable model, recorded separation code 2 versus code 0 was associated with a higher log AMU index (β = 0.205; CR1-t 95% CI 0.013–0.397; p = 0.037), although the wild-cluster p-value was 0.116 and sensitivity estimates varied with adjustment. Code 3 binary contrasts were too sparse for precise effect quantification. Four ML families were evaluated using nested farm-grouped and leave-one-farm-out validation. For the inner-selected biosecurity-plus-age procedure, the unfiltered pooled R² was −0.101 and −0.187, respectively. SHAP retained an exploratory role in explaining held-out tree model predictions. The results identify model-dependent observational patterns but do not establish a causal biosecurity effect or reliable prediction for new farms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Food Safety and Zoonosis)

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13 pages, 1803 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rapid Visual Detection of Cyprinid Herpesvirus 2 Based on One-Tube RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a System

by Jiaqi Li, Wen Zou, Yuping Tang, Mingyang Liu, Yongjie Liu and Yuhao Dong

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090970 - 16 Sep 2026

Viewed by 256

Abstract

Cyprinid herpesvirus 2 (CyHV-2) is a highly lethal pathogen responsible for substantial economic losses in farmed cyprinids worldwide. However, rapid and field-deployable diagnostic tools remain limited. Here, we developed a one-tube recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA)-CRISPR/Cas12a-based fluorescence assay for the visual detection of CyHV-2. [...] Read more.

Cyprinid herpesvirus 2 (CyHV-2) is a highly lethal pathogen responsible for substantial economic losses in farmed cyprinids worldwide. However, rapid and field-deployable diagnostic tools remain limited. Here, we developed a one-tube recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA)-CRISPR/Cas12a-based fluorescence assay for the visual detection of CyHV-2. The system integrates RPA pre-amplification targeting the highly conserved helicase gene hphS, Cas12a-mediated specific recognition and collateral cleavage of a fluorophore-quencher-labeled ssDNA reporter, and visual readout under a portable blue light transilluminator. After optimizing the concentrations of primers, crRNA, Cas12a and the reaction time, the detection limit of this method reached 1 copy/μL, and it showed no cross-reaction with other common aquatic pathogens. Clinical evaluation using 100 tissue samples demonstrated 100% concordance with quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). This method does not require expensive equipment and can be completed within approximately one hour. This RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a platform offers a rapid and specific solution for on-site CyHV-2 surveillance, especially suitable for aquaculture environments with limited resources, and is expected to have broader applications in the detection of aquatic pathogens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology)

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12 pages, 6297 KB

Open AccessCase Report

Salvage Surgery Including Rectal Wall Vas Deferens Pexy for Recurrent Bilateral Perineal Hernia with Bladder Retroflexion in a Dog: A Case Report

by Junyeong Park, Jaewon Do, Changmin Park, Seohyeon Yoon, Ki-Dong Eom and Hwi-Yool Kim

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 969; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090969 - 16 Sep 2026

Viewed by 229

Abstract

Bladder retroflexion associated with perineal hernia may cause urinary dysfunction, and surgical correction can be challenging after repeated procedures because of extensive adhesions and altered anatomy. An 11-year-old, 7.5 kg, castrated male Pomeranian was referred for recurrent bilateral perineal hernia, bladder retroflexion, and [...] Read more.

Bladder retroflexion associated with perineal hernia may cause urinary dysfunction, and surgical correction can be challenging after repeated procedures because of extensive adhesions and altered anatomy. An 11-year-old, 7.5 kg, castrated male Pomeranian was referred for recurrent bilateral perineal hernia, bladder retroflexion, and persistent urinary dysfunction after multiple perineal and abdominal surgeries. A previous attempt at abdominal bladder reduction and cystopexy had failed because adhesions prevented adequate mobilization of the bladder. During salvage surgery, bilateral perineal adhesiolysis was performed first to release the displaced urinary tract structures, followed by an abdominal approach to restore the bladder to its normal intra-abdominal position. Modified bilateral vas deferens pexy was then performed by fixing the residual vasa deferentia to the rectal wall, and each side of the pelvic diaphragm was reconstructed according to the available tissues and defect configuration. Retrograde urethrocystography performed 8 days postoperatively demonstrated short-term anatomical correction, with restoration of the normal positions of the bladder, bladder neck, and urethra. Urinary function gradually improved but had not completely normalized by 150 days. Without further objective imaging, long-term mechanical stability and prevention of recurrence could not be established. This case describes a multimodal salvage strategy for recurrent bilateral perineal hernia with markedly altered anatomy after repeated surgery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Surgery)

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14 pages, 10357 KB

Open AccessArticle

Behavioral Structure, Activity Rhythm and Relationships to the Conservation and Welfare of Tibetan Fox in Tibet Plateau of China

by Xiping Wang, Xiaoping Lu, Jiayi Wu, Jinjin Wang, Zhaxi Sangzhu and Xiuxiang Meng

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 968; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090968 - 16 Sep 2026

Viewed by 360

Abstract

As a keystone species in alpine ecosystems, the Tibetan fox (Vulpes ferrilata) plays an important role in maintaining ecological processes on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Understanding its behavioral structure, activity rhythm, and responses to road-related human disturbance is essential for effective conservation [...] Read more.

As a keystone species in alpine ecosystems, the Tibetan fox (Vulpes ferrilata) plays an important role in maintaining ecological processes on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Understanding its behavioral structure, activity rhythm, and responses to road-related human disturbance is essential for effective conservation and management. This study was conducted in the Tangbei Area of Sanjiangyuan National Park from May to December 2024 using infrared camera trapping. In total, 1166 effective camera-trap days yielded 748 independent photographs, 340 video clips, and 217 valid behavioral records. An ethogram was constructed, and activity patterns and responses to human disturbance were analyzed. The results showed that: (1) Tibetan fox behavior was dominated by locomotion (55.18%), followed by vigilance (23.20%) and scent marking (17.68%). (2) The species exhibited pronounced nocturnality, with an overall daily activity rate of 76.20%. Activity peaked at night (22:00–04:00), reaching 92.63%, while the lowest activity level occurred around midday (12:00), with an activity rate of 44.63%. (3) Roads and human activities significantly altered the behavioral structure of Tibetan foxes. The study indicates that Tibetan foxes adapt to human disturbance through temporal allocation and spatial avoidance, which may affect its social structure and increase energy expenditure. In future conservation practices, focus should be placed on the management of human activities in the region, with enhanced efforts in the construction of ecological corridors, restoration of habitat connectivity, and control of traffic intensity. This study provides scientific evidence to support wildlife conservation and human activity management in alpine protected areas of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. The quantified behavioral baseline and disturbance response patterns also offer reference indicators for conservation veterinary medicine assessment and wild canid welfare monitoring, which can be used to evaluate the health status of Tibetan fox populations under anthropogenic pressure. Full article

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28 pages, 7777 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Association Studies Reveal Key Candidate Genes for Egg Weight and Quality Components in an F₂ Japanese Quail Resource Population

by Natalia A. Volkova, Michael N. Romanov, Polina V. Larionova, Nadezhda Yu. German, Ludmila A. Volkova, Alexander A. Sermyagin, Alexey V. Shakhin, Darren K. Griffin, Johann Sölkner and Natalia A. Zinovieva

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 967; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090967 - 15 Sep 2026

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Abstract

Identifying genetic markers for economically important egg traits is essential for advancing marker-assisted and genomic selection in poultry breeding. Here, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed using genotyping-by-sequencing data to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and candidate genes associated with egg weight [...] Read more.

Identifying genetic markers for economically important egg traits is essential for advancing marker-assisted and genomic selection in poultry breeding. Here, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed using genotyping-by-sequencing data to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and candidate genes associated with egg weight (EW) and its constituent components. We evaluated 102 laying Japanese quails from an F₂ resource population generated by crossing divergent Japanese and Texas White breeds. Phenotypic traits included EW, eggshell weight (ESW), albumen weight (AW), thick albumen weight (TAW), yolk weight (YW), and albumen-to-yolk ratio (AYR). We identified 16 significant SNPs and 88 candidate genes. Notably, seven prioritized candidate genes (NTN4, CLDN10, AGAP3, DUSP19, STAB1, SFMBT1, and RNF130) overlapped with significant SNPs associated with EW, ESW, AW, YW, and AYR. Three pleiotropic SNPs (12:309207, 12:335220, and 12:470023) were associated with multiple traits, while the AGAP3 gene harbored two SNPs linked to AW. Our data offer insights into the polygenic regulation governing egg component development in quails. These newly detected genomic regions and candidate loci offer valuable targets for downstream replication studies aimed at enhancing avian breeding programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Breeding and Production Enhancement in Poultry: Innovations and Applications)

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1 pages, 130 KB

Open AccessRetraction

RETRACTED: Edwards et al. The Lysine Methyltransferase SMYD2 Is Required for Definite Hematopoietic Stem Cell Production in the Mouse Embryo. Vet. Sci. 2020, 7, 100

by Melissa A. Edwards, Mark A. Brown, Ilham Alshiraihi, Dillon K. Jarrell and Haley O. Tucker

Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(9), 966; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13090966 - 15 Sep 2026

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Abstract

The journal retracts the article titled “The Lysine Methyltransferase SMYD2 Is Required for Definite Hematopoietic Stem Cell Production in the Mouse Embryo” [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epigenetic Factors of Embryological Development and Tumorigenesis)

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Vet. Sci., Volume 13, Issue 9 (September 2026) – 151 articles

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