Journal Description
Veterinary Sciences
Veterinary Sciences
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on veterinary sciences published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, PubAg, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Veterinary Sciences) / CiteScore - Q2 (General Veterinary)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Interference of Streptococcus agalactiae Blitz Therapy in Staphylococcus aureus Microbiological Diagnosis in Subclinical Bovine Mastitis
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(6), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11060233 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Bovine mastitis is an important and costly disease to dairy cattle. Diagnostic methods usually performed in Brazil are somatic cell counts (SCC) and milk microbiology. Low bacteria shedding in milk implies no colony growth in microbiological tests and false negative results. Streptococcus agalactiae
[...] Read more.
Bovine mastitis is an important and costly disease to dairy cattle. Diagnostic methods usually performed in Brazil are somatic cell counts (SCC) and milk microbiology. Low bacteria shedding in milk implies no colony growth in microbiological tests and false negative results. Streptococcus agalactiae and Staphylococcus aureus are principal pathogens of mixed mastitis. However, S. agalactiae has a higher bacterial release from the mammary gland than S. aureus, affecting microbiological sensitivity to diagnose S. aureus. This study aimed to estimate the SCC and total bacterial count (TBC) from cows according to pathogen isolated in milk and to evaluate variation in S. aureus diagnosis by a microbiological test during S. agalactiae treatment, which is called blitz therapy. Both S. agalactiae and S. aureus presented high SCC means, although S. agalactiae showed shedding of bacteria 2.3 times greater than S. aureus. Microbiological sensitivity to S. aureus increased for 5 months during S. agalactiae treatment. The prevalence of S. agalactiae fell after 5 months of therapeutic procedures. The prevalence of S. aureus increased to 39.0. The results showed that due to high sensitivity, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) could be used at the beginning of blitz therapy with the goal of S. agalactiae eradication from the dairy herd.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diseases, Diagnosis and Treatment of Bovine Bacterial Infectious)
Open AccessReview
A Scoping Review of the Evidence on Prevalence of Feline Upper Respiratory Tract Infections and Associated Risk Factors
by
Uttara Kennedy, Mandy Bryce Allan Paterson, Ricardo Soares Magalhaes, Thomas Callaghan and Nicholas Clark
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(6), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11060232 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Feline upper respiratory tract infections (URI) are of concern, especially in animal shelters. This scoping review identifies epidemiological literature on URI as caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV), feline calicivirus (FCV), Chlamydia felis, Mycoplasma felis and Bordetella bronchiseptica. Four databases were searched,
[...] Read more.
Feline upper respiratory tract infections (URI) are of concern, especially in animal shelters. This scoping review identifies epidemiological literature on URI as caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV), feline calicivirus (FCV), Chlamydia felis, Mycoplasma felis and Bordetella bronchiseptica. Four databases were searched, studies were screened, and data were extracted on a standardised template. We described patterns in spatial locations of the studies, the range of pathogens and diagnostic tests, cohort characteristics and the findings of risk factor analyses. A total of 90 articles were selected for final data extraction. There was diversity in sampling methods, precluding quantitative meta-analysis of prevalence reports. FHV was most frequently studied (n = 57/90). The most popular sampling site was conjunctival swabbing (n = 43). Most studies (n = 57) used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to confirm diagnosis. Approximately one-third (n = 32/90) of the studies included sheltered felines. This review explores the current state of knowledge on the epidemiology and risk factors of feline URI. Assessing the impact of risk factors has the potential to alleviate the severity of disease, especially in shelters; however, the results were not easily pooled as the studies used inconsistent approaches. We present recommendations for ongoing epidemiological research on feline URI to provide a more structured framework and define research questions for future systematic reviews.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology)
Open AccessArticle
Critically Appraised Topic on Canine Leishmaniosis: Does Treatment with Antimonials and Allopurinol Have the Same Clinical and Clinicopathological Efficacy as Treatment with Miltefosine and Allopurinol, after One Month of Treatment?
by
Marina García, Lluís Ferrer and Laura Ordeix
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(6), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11060231 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
The treatment of canine leishmaniosis commonly involves meglumine antimoniate with allopurinol or miltefosine with allopurinol. This study aims to compare the clinical and clinicopathological efficacy at 28–30 days of conventional dosing regimens for both treatments using the critically appraised topic methodology. A comprehensive
[...] Read more.
The treatment of canine leishmaniosis commonly involves meglumine antimoniate with allopurinol or miltefosine with allopurinol. This study aims to compare the clinical and clinicopathological efficacy at 28–30 days of conventional dosing regimens for both treatments using the critically appraised topic methodology. A comprehensive search across three databases (PubMed, CAB Abstracts, and Web of Science) from March 2004 to September 2023 yielded 16 relevant articles, encompassing 325 ogs treated with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol, and 273 dogs treated with miltefosine and allopurinol. The findings indicated a significantly higher rate of complete clinical cure in the group treated with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol. Most dogs in both groups exhibited improvement in clinicopathological alterations after one month of treatment. No significant difference was observed in the number of dogs that showed a negative Leishmania qPCR between the two groups, one month post-treatment. However, quantitative serology results were not commonly reported in the available data and therefore this aspect could not be compared.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Prevalence and Evolutionary Characteristics of Bovine Coronavirus in China
by
Siyuan Li, Jin Huang, Xuhang Cai, Li Mao, Lingling Xie, Fu Wang, Hua Zhou, Xuesong Yuan, Xinru Sun, Xincheng Fu, Baochao Fan, Xingang Xu, Jizong Li and Bin Li
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(6), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11060230 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Bovine coronavirus (BCoV), bovine rotavirus, bovine viral diarrhea virus, and bovine astrovirus are the most common intestinal pathogenic viruses causing diarrhea in cattle. We collected 1646 bovine fecal samples from January 2020 to August 2023. BCoV was the major pathogen detected, with a
[...] Read more.
Bovine coronavirus (BCoV), bovine rotavirus, bovine viral diarrhea virus, and bovine astrovirus are the most common intestinal pathogenic viruses causing diarrhea in cattle. We collected 1646 bovine fecal samples from January 2020 to August 2023. BCoV was the major pathogen detected, with a positive rate of 34.02% (560/1646). Of the 670 diarrheal samples and 976 asymptomatic samples, 209 and 351 were BCoV-positive, respectively. Studying the relevance of diarrhea associated with BCoV has shown that the onset of diarrheal symptoms post-infection is strongly correlated with the cattle’s age and may also be related to the breed. We amplified and sequenced the hemagglutinin esterase (HE), spike protein, and whole genomes of the partially positive samples and obtained six complete HE sequences, seven complete spike sequences, and six whole genomes. Molecular characterization revealed that six strains were branched Chinese strains, Japanese strains, and partial American strains from the GⅡb subgroup. Strains HBSJZ2202 and JSYZ2209 had four amino acid insertions on HE. We also analyzed ORF1a and found disparities across various regions within GIIb, which were positioned on separate branches within the phylogenetic tree. This work provides data for further investigating the epidemiology of BCoV and for understanding and analyzing BCoV distribution and dynamics.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Effects of a Protocol Combining a Non-Irritating Shampoo and an Adelmidrol-Based Adsorbent Mousse on Seborrhoea and Other Signs and Symptoms Secondary to Canine Atopic Dermatitis: A Multicenter, Open-Label Uncontrolled Clinical Trial
by
Chiara Noli, Giada Morelli, Maria Federica della Valle, Carlo Schievano and Skinalia Clinical Research Group
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(6), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11060229 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The present study aimed at evaluating the effect of a gentle shampoo and a mousse containing Adelmidrol, tapioca starch and a non-prescription antimicrobial complex on seborrhoea and other clinical signs secondary to canine atopic dermatitis (cAD). Forty-six dogs with cAD-associated seborrhoea and/or pruritus
[...] Read more.
The present study aimed at evaluating the effect of a gentle shampoo and a mousse containing Adelmidrol, tapioca starch and a non-prescription antimicrobial complex on seborrhoea and other clinical signs secondary to canine atopic dermatitis (cAD). Forty-six dogs with cAD-associated seborrhoea and/or pruritus > 4 cm on the pruritus visual analogue scale (P-VAS) and/or bacterial/Malassezia overgrowth were enrolled. The mousse was applied twice daily, and dogs were evaluated at days (D)0, 7, 14 and optionally 28, by means of a skin seborrheic index (SSI), P-VAS, cAD lesion index (CADLI), and a semiquantitative cytological score. The mean SSI value improved during the first two weeks (4.1 ± 0.37 to 1.9 ± 0.30; p < 0.0001). The mean P-VAS score (cm) decreased from 6.6 ± 0.19 at D0 to 3.8 ± 0.31 at D14 (p < 0.0001). The mean CADLI score dropped from 13.7 ± 1.24 to 8.5 ± 1.14 at D14 (p < 0.001). The cytological score for bacteria and Malassezia decreased from 3.2 ± 0.10 and 3.2 ± 0.11, respectively, to 1.2 ± 0.19 and 1.2 ± 0.24 (p < 0.0001). All the investigated signs further improved at D28. Altogether, these observations suggest that the tested protocol might be useful in managing cAD-associated signs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Veterinary Dermatology: Challenges and Advances)
Open AccessArticle
Assessing the Impacts of Different Levels of Nano-Selenium on Growth Performance, Serum Metabolites, and Gene Expression in Heat-Stressed Growing Quails
by
Rania Mahmoud, Basma Salama, Fatmah A. Safhi, Ioan Pet, Elena Pet and Ahmed Ateya
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(6), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11060228 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Nano-minerals are employed to enhance mineral bioavailability thus promoting the growth and well-being of animals. In recent times, nano-selenium (nano-Se) has garnered significant attention within the scientific community owing to its potential advantages in the context of poultry. This study was conducted to
[...] Read more.
Nano-minerals are employed to enhance mineral bioavailability thus promoting the growth and well-being of animals. In recent times, nano-selenium (nano-Se) has garnered significant attention within the scientific community owing to its potential advantages in the context of poultry. This study was conducted to explore the impact of using variable levels of nano-Se on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, serum constituents, and gene expression in growing Japanese quails under both thermoneutral and heat stress conditions. A randomized experimental design was used in a 2 × 3 factorial, with 2 environmental conditions (thermoneutral and heat stress) and 3 nano-Se levels (0, 0.2, and 0.5 mg/kg of diet. The findings revealed that heat stress negatively affected the growth and feed utilization of quails; indicated by the poor BWG and FCR. Additionally, oxidative stress was aggravated under heat stress condition; indicated by increased lipids peroxidation and decreased antioxidant enzymes activities. The addition of nano-Se, especially at the level of 0.2 mg/kg of diet, significantly improved the performance of heat stressed quails and restored blood oxidative status. The expression profile of inflammatory and antioxidant markers was modulated by heat stress and/or 0.2 and 0.5 nano-Se in conjunction with environmental temperature in quail groups. In comparison to the control group, the heat stress-exposed quails’ expression profiles of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8 showed a notable up-regulation. Significantly lower levels of the genes for IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8 and higher levels of the genes for SOD and GPX as compared to the heat stress group demonstrated the ameliorative impact of 0.2 nano-Se. The expression profiles of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8 are dramatically elevated in quails exposed to 0.5 nano-Se when compared to the control group. SOD and GPX markers, on the other hand, were markedly down-regulated. It was concluded that nano-Se by low level in heat stressed growing quails provides the greatest performance and its supplementation can be considered as a protective management practice in Japanese quail diets to reduce the negative impact of heat stress.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Poultry Science: Nutritional Aspects of Poultry Production)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Advances in Detecting Cystic Echinococcosis in Intermediate Hosts and New Diagnostic Tools: A Literature Review
by
Ashkan Hajjafari, Soheil Sadr, Cinzia Santucciu, Giovanna Masala, Mansour Bayat, Narges Lotfalizadeh, Hassan Borji, Soroush Partovi Moghaddam and Khashayar Hajjafari
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(6), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11060227 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic disease affecting humans and animals. Despite a lack of clarity about many details of parasite–intermediate host interactions, the nature of the immune responses triggered by hydatid infection has revealed new perspectives. This study discusses the latest advances
[...] Read more.
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic disease affecting humans and animals. Despite a lack of clarity about many details of parasite–intermediate host interactions, the nature of the immune responses triggered by hydatid infection has revealed new perspectives. This study discusses the latest advances in elucidating the immunologic mechanism of echinococcosis and its detection and potential approaches to enhance serodiagnosis accuracy. Moreover, nanobiosensors have been evaluated according to their potential to improve treatment efficiency and aid in an early diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis. The serum of an intermediate host can diagnose CE by analyzing antibodies induced by Echinococcus granulosus. Among the most notable features of this method are its noninvasive ability and high sensitivity, both of which make it an excellent tool for clinical diagnosis. Several serological tests, including ELISAs and immunoblotting, can detect these antibodies to assess the disease’s state and determine the treatment outcome. A thorough understanding of what cross-reactivity means and the stage of the disease are crucial to interpreting serological results. Nanobiosensors have also proven better than conventional biosensors in detecting hydatid cysts. Additionally, they are highly sensitive and versatile when detecting specific biomarkers, improving diagnostic accuracy. These immunomodulatory molecules, induced by E. granulosus, are a good candidate for diagnosing cystic echinococcosis because they alter intermediate host immune responses. Hydatid cyst detection is also enhanced through nanobiosensors, which provide better accuracy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Echinococcosis)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Canine Oral Melanoma: Questioning the Existing Information through a Series of Clinical Cases
by
Carmen G. Pérez-Santana, Ana A. Jiménez-Alonso, Francisco Rodríguez-Esparragón, Sara Cazorla-Rivero and Enrique Rodríguez Grau-Bassas
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050226 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Twelve dogs with oral malignant melanomas (MM) were evaluated in this study, with demographic details indicating a balanced distribution of gender, age, and weight among various breeds. Tumor locations varied, with diverse surgical procedures being performed, including mandibulectomies and maxillectomies. Lymphadenectomies were conducted,
[...] Read more.
Twelve dogs with oral malignant melanomas (MM) were evaluated in this study, with demographic details indicating a balanced distribution of gender, age, and weight among various breeds. Tumor locations varied, with diverse surgical procedures being performed, including mandibulectomies and maxillectomies. Lymphadenectomies were conducted, revealing a 16.66% metastatic rate in regional lymph nodes. At the time of surgery, clinical staging identified stages I, II, and III, with most cases having non-infiltrated margins and a high mitotic index. Follow-up revealed local recurrences and metastases, prompting additional surgeries and affecting survival rates. This study reports varying outcomes, with some dogs completing one year without recurrence, while others experienced progressive disease, leading to six oral melanoma-related deaths. The characteristics of melanotic melanoma and amelanotic melanoma are observed in order to study differences between them, the degree of aggressiveness, the mortality rate and the possibility of future therapeutic targets. Although high pigmentation has been correlated with a better outcome, we could not find any significant correlation between survival and achromia. Oral benign melanomas might exist, and this could justify variabilities between stage and survival; however, carefulness is required due to their unpredictable behavior. The findings underscore the complexity of oral melanoma cases and highlight the need for further research on effective management strategies.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Heart Rate Variability in Newborns Dogs with Different Types of Delivery during the First 35 Days of Life
by
Jaqueline Valença Corrêa, Carolina Dragone Latini, Beatriz Almeida Santos, Amanda Sarita Cruz Aleixo, Keylla Helena Nobre Pacífico Pereira, Miriam Harumi Tsunemi, Luiz Henrique de Araujo Machado and Maria Lucia Gomes Lourenço
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050225 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of the autonomic nervous system on cardiovascular function during the first 35 days of life in different types of delivery, using heart rate variability (HRV) indices. Thirty newborns were equally divided into two groups based
[...] Read more.
The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of the autonomic nervous system on cardiovascular function during the first 35 days of life in different types of delivery, using heart rate variability (HRV) indices. Thirty newborns were equally divided into two groups based on delivery type: eutocic delivery (EG) and emergency cesarean section (CG). Electrocardiographic evaluation was performed at birth (T0), 24 h postpartum (T1), and at 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days of life (T2 to T6). Physical parameters, neonatal reflexes, and Apgar scores were recorded. Over 35 days, the values of the time domain indices were higher in the GE group and increased with age. In the frequency domain, the low frequency (LF) index was higher in the CG, and the opposite occurred for the high frequency (HF) index. Since the CG presented lower HRV than the EG, it was shown that the type of delivery should be considered for the assessment of autonomic nervous system activity in neonates. Thus, as predictive factors of vitality, HRV and Apgar scores can help in the face of neonatal depression, demonstrating that delivery by emergency cesarean section can predispose newborns to delays in the autonomic influence on the heart.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Canine Euthanasia’s Trend Analysis during Thirty Years (1990–2020) in Italy: A Veterinary Hospital as Case Study
by
Annalisa Previti, Vito Biondi, Michela Pugliese, Angela Alibrandi, Agata Zirilli, Mariana Roccaro, Angelo Peli and Annamaria Passantino
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050224 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
This study aimed to investigate changes in the number of, and reasons for, requests for dogs’ euthanasia over the last thirty years. Data (breed, age, gender, neuter status, manner, and cause of death) from dogs’ euthanasia registered between 1990 and 2020 in a
[...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate changes in the number of, and reasons for, requests for dogs’ euthanasia over the last thirty years. Data (breed, age, gender, neuter status, manner, and cause of death) from dogs’ euthanasia registered between 1990 and 2020 in a small animals’ veterinary hospital were analyzed. The overall period examined has been split into two terms (T1 = 1990–2004 and T2 = 2005–2020) considering the introduction and enforcement of Law 189/2004. During the whole period examined, a significant increasing trend in euthanasia cases has been recorded (p = 0.027). Comparing the two terms, we observed significant differences regarding variables such as age, breed, reproductive status, and ownership. The number of euthanized dogs was significantly higher in T1 than in T2. Dogs euthanized in T2 were older than dogs in T1. A high percentage of the euthanized dogs were crossbred and stray dogs. Additionally, the number of neutered/spayed dogs was significantly higher. Regarding the cause of death, a significantly higher percentage of neoplastic processes was detected in T2. The data here reported suggest a potential influence of Law 189/2004. This law in Italy has proven to be a legal milestone that has influenced the decision-making process between euthanasia and natural death.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessCase Report
Isolation and Identification of Morganella morganii from Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta) in China
by
Heling Li, Zhigang Chen, Qing Ning, Faliang Zong and Hong Wang
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 223; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050223 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
A bacterium was isolated and identified from the secretion of a rhesus monkey with endometritis. The morphological results showed that the strain exhibited round, convex, gray-white colonies with smooth surfaces and diameters ranging from 1 to 2 mm when cultured on Columbia blood
[...] Read more.
A bacterium was isolated and identified from the secretion of a rhesus monkey with endometritis. The morphological results showed that the strain exhibited round, convex, gray-white colonies with smooth surfaces and diameters ranging from 1 to 2 mm when cultured on Columbia blood agar at 37 °C for 24 h; on salmonella–shigella agar (S.S.) at 37 °C for 24 h, the colonies appeared round, flat, and translucent. Gram staining showed negative results with blunt ends and non-spore-forming characteristics. Molecular biology results showed that the 16S rRNA sequence of the strain revealed over 96.9% similarity with published sequences of M. morganii from different sources in the NCBI GenBank database. Morphological and molecular biology analysis confirmed that the strain (RM2023) isolated from cervical secretions of rhesus monkey was M. morganii. Drug sensitivity testing demonstrated that the isolated strain (RM2023) was sensitive to ceftriaxone, amikacin, gentamicin, cefazolin, cefuroxime, ceftazidime, levofloxacin, cotrimoxazole, norfloxacin, and tetracycline; moderately sensitive to ampicillin; and resistant to penicillin, vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, and clindamycin. The research findings provide valuable insights for disease prevention in rhesus monkeys and contribute to molecular epidemiological studies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Infectious Disease: Viral Enteric Pathogens with Zoonosis Potential in Domestic and Wild Animals)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Hematologic and Serum Biochemical Characteristics of Belgian Blue Cattle
by
Hugues Guyot, Damien Legroux, Justine Eppe, Fabrice Bureau, Leah Cannon and Eve Ramery
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050222 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Belgian blue (BB) cattle have an 11-bp deletion in myostatin that causes skeletal muscle hyperplasia and increased muscle mass, leading to a ‘double-muscled’ phenotype. Preliminary data suggest that this phenotype may be associated with breed-specific hematologic and biochemical values. Therefore, in this study,
[...] Read more.
Belgian blue (BB) cattle have an 11-bp deletion in myostatin that causes skeletal muscle hyperplasia and increased muscle mass, leading to a ‘double-muscled’ phenotype. Preliminary data suggest that this phenotype may be associated with breed-specific hematologic and biochemical values. Therefore, in this study, we sought to compare hematologic and serum biochemical parameters in healthy BB and Holstein Friesian (HF) cows and to propose breed-specific reference intervals for BB cows. Hematologic parameters, total protein, creatinine, creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate transaminase (AST) activities, albumin, and globulins were measured in 183 clinically healthy adult BB and HF cows. There were significant differences between BB and HF cows in 17 of 27 measured parameters. BB cows had significantly higher creatinine concentration and CK and AST activities (p < 0.001). RBCs, hemoglobin, hematocrit (p < 0.001), MCV and lymphocytes (p < 0.05) were also significantly higher in BB cows compared with HF cows. The average N/L ratio was greater than 1 in both breeds. These results suggest that BB and HF cows have significantly different clinically relevant hematologic and serum biochemical values, and, therefore, breed-specific reference intervals should be used.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Biomedical Sciences)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Microbial Colonization of Explants after Osteosynthesis in Small Animals: Incidence and Influencing Factors
by
Mario Candela Andrade, Pavel Slunsky, Tanja Pagel, Ignacio De Rus Aznar, Mathias Brunnberg and Leo Brunnberg
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 221; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050221 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Despite recent advancements in antibiotics, hygienic measures, and peri-operative systemic antibiotics, post-operative infections in osteosynthesis remain prevalent and continue to be among the most common surgical complications, leading to delayed fracture healing, osteomyelitis, implant loosening, and loss of function. Osteosynthesis implants are routinely
[...] Read more.
Despite recent advancements in antibiotics, hygienic measures, and peri-operative systemic antibiotics, post-operative infections in osteosynthesis remain prevalent and continue to be among the most common surgical complications, leading to delayed fracture healing, osteomyelitis, implant loosening, and loss of function. Osteosynthesis implants are routinely utilized in veterinary medicine and the current study investigates the microbial colonization of implants following osteosynthesis in small animals, along with its incidence and influencing factors. The results are analyzed in regard to correlations between infection, patient, disease progression, and radiographic images, as well as other factors that may promote infection. Seventy-one explants from sixty-five patients were examined and evaluated for microbial colonization. Factors like body weight and age, location and type of plate and additional injuries like lung lesions, the surgeon’s experience, or the number of people present during the surgical procedure seem to influence the development of an infection. Of the animals, 60% showed osteolytic changes and 73.3% of those with dysfunctional mobility had an implant infection. Microorganisms were detected in almost 50% of the explants, but a clinically relevant infection was only present in five patients (7.3%), suggesting that the presence of microorganisms on an implant does not necessarily lead to treatment complications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Surgery)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Mapping Bovine Tuberculosis in Colombia, 2001–2019
by
D. Katterine Bonilla-Aldana, S. Daniela Jiménez-Diaz, Carlos Lozada-Riascos, Kenneth Silva-Cajaleon and Alfonso J. Rodríguez-Morales
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050220 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Bovine tuberculosis is a zoonotic disease of significant impact, particularly in countries where a pastoral economy is predominant. Despite its importance, few studies have analysed the disease’s behaviour in Colombia, and none have developed maps using geographic information systems (GIS) to characterise
[...] Read more.
Introduction: Bovine tuberculosis is a zoonotic disease of significant impact, particularly in countries where a pastoral economy is predominant. Despite its importance, few studies have analysed the disease’s behaviour in Colombia, and none have developed maps using geographic information systems (GIS) to characterise it; as such, we developed this study to describe the temporal–spatial distribution of bovine tuberculosis in Colombia over a period of 19 years. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study, based on reports by the Colombian Agricultural Institute (ICA), surveillance of tuberculosis on cattle farms in Colombia from 2001 to 2019 was carried out. The data were converted into databases using Microsoft Access 365®, and multiple epidemiological maps were generated with the QGIS® version 3.36 software coupled to shape files of all the country’s departments. Results: During the study period, 5273 bovine tuberculosis cases were identified in multiple different departments of Colombia (with a mean of 278 cases/year). Regarding its temporal distribution, the number of cases varied from a maximum of 903 cases (17.12% of the total) in 2015 to a minimum of 0 between 2001 and 2004 and between 2017 and 2019 (between 2005 and 2016, the minimum was 46 cases, 0.87%). Conclusions: GIS are essential for understanding the temporospatial behaviour of zoonotic diseases in Colombia, as is the case for bovine tuberculosis, with its potential implications for the Human and One Health approaches.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spotlight on Tuberculosis and Mycoplasmosis in Cattle)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Radiotherapy for Canine Apocrine Gland Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma: Survival Outcomes and Side Effects of a Palliative Treatment Protocol of 20 Gy in Five Consecutive Fractions
by
Carlos Roberto Mendez Valenzuela, Kelly Shin, Hsin-Yi Weng, Jeannie M. Plantenga and Isabelle F. Vanhaezebrouck
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 219; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050219 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
This research aims to evaluate the outcomes of a radiotherapy protocol, consisting of five fractions of 4 Gy each, resulting in a total dose of 20 Gy for apocrine gland anal sac tumors and local lymph nodes in canines. This protocol was assessed
[...] Read more.
This research aims to evaluate the outcomes of a radiotherapy protocol, consisting of five fractions of 4 Gy each, resulting in a total dose of 20 Gy for apocrine gland anal sac tumors and local lymph nodes in canines. This protocol was assessed as a palliative treatment for macroscopic tumors alone, or in combination with additional therapies under different scenarios. Medical records from fifty canine patients met the inclusion criteria and were divided into different treatment groups: radiotherapy alone (n = 22, 44%), radiotherapy with chemotherapy or targeted therapy with toceranib (n = 18, 36%), surgery with radiotherapy (n = 5, 10%), and surgery with radiotherapy and chemotherapy or targeted therapy with toceranib (n = 5, 10%). Patients who received radiotherapy alone had a median survival time of 384 days (95% CI 198–569) and 628 days (95% CI 579–676) for RT + additional therapies. The median time to progression for patients with radiotherapy alone was 337 days (95% CI 282–391 days), and 402 days (95% CI 286–517 days) for radiotherapy plus additional treatments. Acute side effects were mild, with the majority having diarrhea (61%), and only one patient developed grade III late effects VRTOG v2 classification; however, this happened 22 months after the first radiotherapy protocol after re-irradiation. The results demonstrate that radiotherapy alone under this protocol provided a comparable median time to progression vs. radiotherapy plus additional treatments while maintaining acceptable side effects. The combination of this protocol with other treatment modalities offers attractive results for local disease control and survival while maintaining acceptable toxicities. Overall, these findings contribute to the growing evidence supporting the role of radiotherapy in managing apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma in dogs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Comparative Oncology and Veterinary Cancer Surveillance)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Relationship between Milk Yield and Reproductive Parameters on Three Hungarian Dairy Farms
by
Zsófia Amma, Jenő Reiczigel, Hedvig Fébel and László Solti
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050218 - 14 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
It is postulated that there is negative correlation between milk yield and reproductive performance. However, some studies definitely doubt this causality. The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between milk production and fertility on three dairy farms. The production parameter
[...] Read more.
It is postulated that there is negative correlation between milk yield and reproductive performance. However, some studies definitely doubt this causality. The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between milk production and fertility on three dairy farms. The production parameter was the milk yield (in kg), and fertility was expressed by the number of inseminations per conception (AI index), as well as by the length of the service period (in days). A total of 13 012 lactations from cows with their first three lactations completed were analysed. The number of inseminations was significantly correlated with the milk yield and with the studied farm (p < 0.0001), but its correlation with the lactation number was not significant (p = 0.9477). A similar relationship was found after evaluating the length of the service period. A multiplicative model showed that a 2000 kg milk increase extended the service period by 9% and increased the AI index by 13%. Thereafter, using quartiles of the cows, the service period of the highest-producing group rose by 41.5 days, and the AI index by almost 1, compared to the lowest quartile. Our results indicate a definitive decline in reproductive indicators parallel to an increase in milk production but did not prove an inevitable correlation.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Wildlife–Livestock Host Community Maintains Simultaneous Epidemiologic Cycles of Mycoplasma conjunctivae in a Mountain Ecosystem
by
Jorge Ramón López-Olvera, Eva Ramírez, Carlos Martínez-Carrasco and José Enrique Granados
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050217 - 14 May 2024
Abstract
Infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC) is an eye disease caused by Mycoplasma conjunctivae that affects domestic and wild caprines, including Iberian ibex (Capra pyrenaica), a medium-sized mountain ungulate. However, its role in IKC dynamics in multi-host communities has been poorly studied. This study
[...] Read more.
Infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC) is an eye disease caused by Mycoplasma conjunctivae that affects domestic and wild caprines, including Iberian ibex (Capra pyrenaica), a medium-sized mountain ungulate. However, its role in IKC dynamics in multi-host communities has been poorly studied. This study assessed M. conjunctivae in Iberian ibex and seasonally sympatric domestic small ruminants in the Natural Space of Sierra Nevada (NSSN), a mountain habitat in southern Spain. From 2015 to 2017, eye swabs were collected from 147 ibexes (46 subadults, 101 adults) and 169 adult domestic small ruminants (101 sheep, 68 goats). Mycoplasma conjunctivae was investigated through real-time qPCR and statistically assessed according to species, sex, age category, year, period, and area. The lppS gene of M. conjunctivae was sequenced and phylogenetically analysed. Mycoplasma conjunctivae was endemic and asymptomatic in the host community of the NSSN. Three genetic clusters were shared by ibex and livestock, and one was identified only in sheep, although each host species could maintain the infection independently. Naïve subadults maintained endemic infection in Iberian ibex, with an epizootic outbreak in 2017 when the infection spread to adults. Wild ungulates are epidemiologically key in maintaining and spreading IKC and other shared diseases among spatially segregated livestock flocks.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spotlight on Ophthalmologic Pathology in Animals)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessCase Report
Ultrasound, Histomorphologic, and Immunohistochemical Analysis of a Cardiac Tumor with Increased Purkinje Cells Detected in a Canine Fetus 42 Days into Pregnancy
by
Enrico Giordano, Ignazio Ponticelli, Simona Attard, Teresa Bruna Pagano and Maria Carmela Pisu
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050216 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
A seven-year-old healthy female Chow Chow was referred for pregnancy monitoring. Ultrasonography was used to evaluate all pregnancy and fetus parameters, and they were found to be normal. During the examination of the 42 day pregnant bitch, an unusual mass was seen in
[...] Read more.
A seven-year-old healthy female Chow Chow was referred for pregnancy monitoring. Ultrasonography was used to evaluate all pregnancy and fetus parameters, and they were found to be normal. During the examination of the 42 day pregnant bitch, an unusual mass was seen in a fetus’s heart. This fetus had a cardiac frequency of 273–300 beats, while the others had heart rates of 220–240 beats. Natural vaginal birth occurred at 63 days pregnant: the first two puppies were stillborn but perfectly formed, and the other three were alive and had optimal APGAR. In one of two deceased puppies, an unusual, reddish, smooth mass occupying the space in the heart was found through necroscopy. The organ was submitted for histological examination. Histopathology, immunohistochemical, and histochemical analyses all indicated a cardiac tumor with increased Purkinje cells. This type of tumor has been described in infants, swine, bearded seals, and deer but never in fetuses and neonates of dogs. To our knowledge, this is the first such case reported in veterinary medicine.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Japanese Encephalitis Virus and Schizophyllum commune Co-Infection in a Harbor Seal in Japan
by
Marina Fujii, Soma Ito, Etsuko Katsumata, James K. Chambers, Hiromichi Matsugo, Akiko Takenaka-Uema, Shin Murakami, Kazuyuki Uchida and Taisuke Horimoto
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050215 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus, has a wide host range, extending from pigs and ardeid birds to opportunistic dead-end hosts, such as humans and horses. However, JEV encephalitis infections in aquatic mammals are rare, with only two cases in seals
[...] Read more.
The Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus, has a wide host range, extending from pigs and ardeid birds to opportunistic dead-end hosts, such as humans and horses. However, JEV encephalitis infections in aquatic mammals are rare, with only two cases in seals reported to date. Here, we report a lethal case of JEV and Schizophyllum commune co-infection in an aquarium-housed harbor seal in Japan. We isolated JEV from the brain of the dead seal and characterized its phylogeny and pathogenicity in mice. The virus isolate from the seal was classified as genotype GIb, which aligns with recent Japanese human and mosquito isolates as well as other seal viruses detected in China and Korea, and does not exhibit a unique sequence trait distinct from that of human and mosquito strains. We demonstrated that the seal isolate is pathogenic to mice and causes neuronal symptoms. These data suggest that seals should be considered a susceptible dead-end host for circulating JEV in natural settings.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Influence of Clinical Aspects and Genetic Factors on Feline HCM Severity and Development
by
Victoria Korobova and Yulia Kruglova
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(5), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11050214 - 13 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which is associated with thickening of the left ventricular wall, is one of the most common heart pathologies in cats. This disease has a hereditary etiology and is primarily related to mutations in the MYBPC3 and MYH7 genes. This study
[...] Read more.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which is associated with thickening of the left ventricular wall, is one of the most common heart pathologies in cats. This disease has a hereditary etiology and is primarily related to mutations in the MYBPC3 and MYH7 genes. This study aims to determine the effect of the presence of heterozygosity or homozygosity for the p. A31P mutation (c.91G>C) in the MYBPC3 gene in cats (Maine Coon) of different ages referring to the HCM severity and development, and to compare echocardiographic data and various clinical aspects for the most objective detection of disease in cats of different breeds. The incidence of HCM was 59% of the 103 cases of heart disease in cats in this study. In 23 cats diagnosed with HCM, cats heterozygous for the mutation accounted for 34%, and homozygous cats accounted for 26%. Cats homozygous for this mutation had moderate to severe HCM, suggesting an association with high penetrance of HCM and a significant risk of cardiac death in this group. The penetrance of the heterozygous type was lower than that of the homozygous genotype. This study also indicates that HCM has some age-related penetrance. The disease did not occur in the study group of cats aged up to 1 year, whereas at the age of 7 and older, the percentage of animals diagnosed with HCM was the highest and amounted to 44.3% of the total number of studied cats with HCM.
Full article
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Veterinary Sciences Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Agriculture, Animals, Dairy, Ruminants, Veterinary Sciences
Practical Methods for Accommodating Behavioral Needs and Improving the Wellbeing of Both Farm Animals
Topic Editors: Temple Grandin, Kurt VogelDeadline: 20 June 2024
Topic in
Animals, Pathogens, Veterinary Sciences, Zoonotic Diseases
Zoonotic Vector-Borne Diseases of Companion Animals
Topic Editors: Anastasia Diakou, Donato TraversaDeadline: 20 December 2024
Topic in
Agriculture, Animals, Veterinary Sciences, Antibiotics, Zoonotic Diseases
Animal Diseases in Agricultural Production Systems, 2nd Edition
Topic Editors: Ewa Tomaszewska, Beata Łebkowska-Wieruszewska, Tomasz Szponder, Joanna Wessely-SzponderDeadline: 31 December 2024
Topic in
Agriculture, Animals, Dairy, Genes, IJMS, Veterinary Sciences
Application of Reproductive and Genomic Biotechnologies for Livestock Breeding and Selection
Topic Editors: Manuel García-Herreros, Pedro M. AponteDeadline: 20 March 2025
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Veterinary Sciences
Veterinary Dermatology: Challenges and Advances
Guest Editors: Lucia Panáková, Ina HerrmannDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Veterinary Sciences
Emerging Infectious Disease: Viral Enteric Pathogens with Zoonosis Potential in Domestic and Wild Animals
Guest Editor: Vittorio SarcheseDeadline: 10 June 2024
Special Issue in
Veterinary Sciences
Leishmania Infection: Pathogenesis, Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects
Guest Editor: Stefania HanauDeadline: 30 June 2024
Special Issue in
Veterinary Sciences
Comparative Oncology and Veterinary Cancer Surveillance
Guest Editors: Katia Pinello, Renee Laufer Amorim, Carlos Eduardo Fonseca-Alves, Chiara Palmieri, Maria Lucia Zaidan Dagli, Fernando O. MardonesDeadline: 15 July 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Veterinary Sciences
Advances in Animal Dermatology
Collection Editor: Marie-Christine Cadiergues
Topical Collection in
Veterinary Sciences
Human and Animal Influenzas: A Shared Public Health Concern
Collection Editors: John Pasick, Stephan Pleschka
Topical Collection in
Veterinary Sciences
One-Health Approach to Bee Health
Collection Editors: Giovanni Cilia, Antonio Nanetti