Veterinary Sciences

15 pages, 1479 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated 16S rDNA and Metabolomics Analysis Unveils Dietary Fiber-Induced Changes in Small Intestinal Microbiota and Metabolites of Pigs

by Haifei Wang, Lele Qi, Yeyi Xiao, Jian Jin, Ruihua Huang, Shenglong Wu and Wenbin Bao

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1034; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111034 (registering DOI) - 24 Oct 2025

Abstract

Dietary fiber has proven beneficial for improving gastrointestinal function, its role in the small intestine has received comparatively less attention. In this study, ten Erhualian pigs (40 ± 0.86 kg) were randomly assigned to two groups: a basal diet and a 7% wheat [...] Read more.

Dietary fiber has proven beneficial for improving gastrointestinal function, its role in the small intestine has received comparatively less attention. In this study, ten Erhualian pigs (40 ± 0.86 kg) were randomly assigned to two groups: a basal diet and a 7% wheat bran-supplemented diet, respectively. Using 16S rDNA sequencing and LC-MS-based untargeted metabolomics, we observed significant shifts in small intestinal microbiota and metabolome. Five genera (Terrisporobacter, Howardella, Romboutsia, Cellulosilyticum, and Intestinibacter) showed a significant increase in abundance in pigs fed the high-fiber diet. In addition, 155 differential metabolites were identified between the two groups. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that these metabolites were particularly enriched in pathways of carbohydrate utilization and tryptophan catabolism. Correlation analysis revealed significant associations between specific microbial genera and bile acids including lithocholic acid and 23-Norcholic acid. These findings indicate that a high-fiber diet may promote tryptophan metabolism by genera such as Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, Terrisporobacter, and Romboutsia, facilitating intestinal function and health. Overall, our findings provide new insights into the effects of dietary fiber on the microbial community and metabolome in the small intestine, and highlight the potential of certain bacterial genera as beneficial microbiota for promoting small intestinal health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Internal Medicine)

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18 pages, 1387 KB

Open AccessArticle

Anion Gap and Ionised Calcium as Diagnostic Indicators in Calves with Atresia Coli from Twenty-Two Cases

by Muhammed Kaan Yönez, Emre Tüfekçi, Umut Alpman and Gencay Ekinci

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1033; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111033 (registering DOI) - 24 Oct 2025

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate blood lactate, anion gap, and ionised calcium levels as potential diagnostic biomarkers in calves with atresia coli, and to identify possible predisposing factors such as breed, gender, age, method of conception, number of lactations, and births. The study [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate blood lactate, anion gap, and ionised calcium levels as potential diagnostic biomarkers in calves with atresia coli, and to identify possible predisposing factors such as breed, gender, age, method of conception, number of lactations, and births. The study included twenty-two calves with atresia coli and ten healthy controls, all aged 1–11 days (median, 3 days), brought to Erciyes University Veterinary Faculty from Kayseri and nearby provinces due to non-defecation and abdominal swelling. Prominent clinical findings among the 22 calves with atresia coli included abdominal distension in 90.9%, anorexia in 81.8%, and depressed general posture in 86.4%. Blood gas analysis revealed significantly elevated lactate and anion gap and decreased ionised calcium and pH in atresia coli calves compared to controls (p < 0.05). Anion gap (>14.05 mmol/L) and ionised calcium (<1.205 mmol/L) demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy (AUC: 0.964 and 0.872, respectively), suggesting their potential as supportive biomarkers for early detection of atresia coli. The study data revealed that male gender, artificial insemination, and calves born from the third or subsequent pregnancies are statistically significant risk factors for the development of atresia coli. Atresia coli in calves is characterized by specific clinical signs and significant changes in blood gas parameters, such as elevated lactate and anion gap and reduced ionised calcium and pH. Early detection using these markers can improve diagnosis, and further studies should focus on prevention by addressing these risk factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Surgery)

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14 pages, 1564 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Effects of Oral Calcium Bolus Supplementation on Serum Minerals and Energy Balance Indicators in Simmental Cows Fed a Prepartum Anionic Diet

by Salih Çelik, Habip Muruz, Sude Bayram, Zehra Selçuk and Mehmet Akif Yörük

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111032 - 24 Oct 2025

Abstract

Calcium disorders remain a major challenge during the transition period of dairy cows, and oral calcium supplements are widely used to prevent postpartum hypocalcemia. This study evaluated the effects of administering an oral Ca-bolus containing calcium sulfate, acetate, and formate on postpartum mineral [...] Read more.

Calcium disorders remain a major challenge during the transition period of dairy cows, and oral calcium supplements are widely used to prevent postpartum hypocalcemia. This study evaluated the effects of administering an oral Ca-bolus containing calcium sulfate, acetate, and formate on postpartum mineral status and energy balance in multiparous Simmental cows. Twenty cows (mean parity 3.5 ± 0.51) were fed a prepartum diet with a negative dietary cation–anion difference (DCAD) and enrolled at calving if body condition score was between 3.0 and 3.5 and urine pH ranged from 6.2 to 6.8 during the wk before parturition. Animals were blocked by parity and randomly assigned to a control group (n = 10) or to a treatment group (n = 10) receiving two oral boluses (each 175 g; 45.14 g calcium plus 40,250 IU vitamin D₃), administered immediately after calving and 24 h later. Blood samples were collected up to 48 h postpartum for calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium analyses, and up to 14 d postpartum for glucose and β-hydroxybutyrate. Both groups were normocalcemic at calving, and no significant treatment effects were detected for any parameter at any time point. However, a short-lived numerical increase in calcium was observed 6 h after bolus administration. These results suggest that additional oral Ca supplementation may not be required in well-managed Simmental cows receiving a prepartum negative DCAD diet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evaluation of Feeds and Additives on Metabolic or Metabolomic Research on Animal Production)

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15 pages, 5746 KB

Open AccessArticle

Epidemiological Investigation and Molecular Characterization of Chicken Infectious Anemia Virus in Broilers in Liaoning Province, China

by Yufu Li, Zhenyu Chen, Yiyang Huang, Shuang Hu, Qiufeng Lv and Peng Zhang

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111031 - 24 Oct 2025

Abstract

Chicken anemia virus (CAV) targets the immune system of chickens, causing anemia and atrophy of the bone marrow and lymphoid organs, resulting in significant damage to poultry farming. From April 2024 to March 2025, a total of 359 liver samples were collected from [...] Read more.

Chicken anemia virus (CAV) targets the immune system of chickens, causing anemia and atrophy of the bone marrow and lymphoid organs, resulting in significant damage to poultry farming. From April 2024 to March 2025, a total of 359 liver samples were collected from broiler farms in 11 cities across Liaoning Province. CAV was detected using PCR, and 16 complete genome sequences of CAV isolates from different regions were analyzed through phylogenetic and recombination analyses. The overall CAV positivity rate was 13.9%, with spring identified as the peak season. Phylogenetic analysis and genotyping revealed that ten CAV strains clustered within subgroup C1, while the remaining six were distributed among subgroups C2 and C3, as well as Group D. Specific mutations were observed among the VP1 protein genotypes, including mutations previously associated with increased pathogenicity and transmission. One isolate, LN2511, was identified as a potential recombinant strain with its parents CAV-Shanxi7 and CAV-EG-13. During 2024–2025, CAV infection remained prevalent in Liaoning Province, with subtype C1 being the dominant genotype. Amino acid sequence analysis indicated the presence of highly pathogenic strains across the province. These findings fill a knowledge gap regarding CAV infection status and evolutionary trends in chicken populations in Liaoning, China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging and Re-Emerging Viral Diseases in Animals: Molecular Insights, Diagnostic Innovations, and One Health Implications)

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23 pages, 4934 KB

Open AccessArticle

Protegrin-1 Combats Multidrug-Resistant Porcine ExPEC: Potent Bactericidal Activity and Multimodal Immunometabolic Regulation In Vitro and in a Murine Model

by Jing Xu, Yinlin He, Zihao Liang, Shengfeng Chen, Biao Tang, Fei Su and Canying Liu

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1030; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111030 - 23 Oct 2025

Abstract

Porcine extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) is a significant zoonotic pathogen with escalating antimicrobial resistance, underscoring the urgent need for novel therapeutics. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential and mechanism of action of the antimicrobial peptide Protegrin-1 (PG-1) against a multidrug-resistant [...] Read more.

Porcine extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) is a significant zoonotic pathogen with escalating antimicrobial resistance, underscoring the urgent need for novel therapeutics. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential and mechanism of action of the antimicrobial peptide Protegrin-1 (PG-1) against a multidrug-resistant porcine ExPEC strain, PCN033. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined, and resistance stability was assessed through serial induction and withdrawal passages. Hemolytic activity was evaluated to gauge selectivity. A murine infection model was utilized to assess in vivo efficacy, bacterial load reduction, cytokine modulation, and histopathology. Comparative spleen transcriptomic analysis was performed to elucidate global host responses. PG-1 exhibited potent bactericidal activity (MIC = 32 μg/mL) and maintained its efficacy over multiple passages, demonstrating no induced resistance. It showed acceptable hemolytic activity and significantly improved survival, reduced bacterial loads in multiple organs, and mitigated tissue damage in mice. Transcriptomics revealed PG-1 treatment broadly tempered infection-induced hyperinflammatory responses, including NF-κB, MAPK, and TNF signaling pathways, and counteracted metabolic reprogramming. The findings conclude that PG-1 effectively integrates direct, resistance-resistant bactericidal activity with multimodal immunomodulation, representing a superior therapeutic strategy that simultaneously eliminates pathogens and restores immune homeostasis, offering a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics against MDR ExPEC infections. Full article

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

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13 pages, 1039 KB

Open AccessArticle

MicroRNA Expression Profiling in Canine Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease Highlights Potential Diagnostic Tool and Molecular Pathways

by Gabriella Guelfi, Noemi Santarelli, Camilla Capaccia, Federica Valeri, Domenico Caivano and Elvio Lepri

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111029 (registering DOI) - 23 Oct 2025

Abstract

Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common acquired cardiac disoder in dogs and a relevant model for human mitral valve disease. However, the molecular drivers of disease progression remain unclear, and reliable biomarkers for early diagnosis still hamper clinical management. This [...] Read more.

Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common acquired cardiac disoder in dogs and a relevant model for human mitral valve disease. However, the molecular drivers of disease progression remain unclear, and reliable biomarkers for early diagnosis still hamper clinical management. This study investigated microRNA (miRNA) expression directly in histologically characterized mitral valve tissues. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples were obtained from control dogs (n = 7), low-grade MMVD (n = 8), and high-grade MMVD (n = 5). A bioinformatics workflow identified candidate miRNAs converging on extracellular matrix remodeling and canonical signaling pathways, including TGF-β, PI3K–Akt, and MAPK. Selected candidates, let-7 family, miR-98, miR-21, miR-30b, miR-133b, and miR-103, were validated by qPCR. Results revealed a general upregulation of the panel in MMVD compared with controls, with stage-dependent differences between low- and high-grade lesions. In particular, miR-21, let-7b, and miR-133b were markedly increased in advanced disease, while miR-30b emerged as an early-stage marker with potential prognostic value. These findings provide molecular evidence linking miRNA dysregulation to progressive valvular degeneration. By combining histologically defined tissue analysis with stage-based comparisons, this study identifies miRNAs with potential diagnostic and prognostic utility for canine MMVD. Full article

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13 pages, 1116 KB

Open AccessArticle

Locomotory Profile, Heart Rate Variability, and Blood Parameters Reveal Adaptive Responses in Endurance Horses Trained on Deep Sand

by Elisabetta Porzio, Samanta Mecocci, Giovanni Chillemi, Massimo Puccetti, Marco Pepe, Katia Cappelli and Francesca Beccati

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1028; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111028 - 23 Oct 2025

Abstract

Training on deep sand is commonly employed in endurance horses, but its physiological adaptation remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to characterize locomotor adaptations during a 7 km controlled-speed canter on deep sand in eighteen endurance horses, to identify heart rate variability (HRV) [...] Read more.

Training on deep sand is commonly employed in endurance horses, but its physiological adaptation remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to characterize locomotor adaptations during a 7 km controlled-speed canter on deep sand in eighteen endurance horses, to identify heart rate variability (HRV) components, and to investigate changes in hematological variables before and after exercise. Stride frequency (SF) and stride length (SL), HRV, and hematological profiles were recorded during exercise and recovery with a fitness tracker. Associations between maximum speed and locomotor parameters were assessed by linear regression, while Pearson’s correlation assessed HRV relationships, also with physiological parameters. Hematological parameters were assessed with paired t-test before and after training. SL percentage change was the strongest predictor of speed (β = 0.677). HRV analysis revealed delayed parasympathetic reactivation; the parasympathetic recovery index (PNS REC) was correlated with mean RR interval on the ECG (r = 0.968) and heart rate (r = −0.964) during recovery. Post-exercise rectal temperature showed correlations with HRV recovery indices. Hematological evaluation revealed post-exercise increases in red blood cell count, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and corpuscular indices. SL plays a predominant role in achieving higher speeds on deep sand, while PNS REC emerges as a practical and accessible marker of autonomic recovery and fatigue. Horses with enhanced thermoregulation recover better. Hematological results confirm a physiological stress response that may optimize oxygen delivery. Integrating locomotor, cardiovascular, and hematological monitoring may improve management and welfare in endurance training. Full article

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16 pages, 3348 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of African Swine Fever in Free-Ranging Wild Boar (Sus scrofa): Insights from Six Years of Surveillance and Control in Slovakia

by Peter Smolko, Jozef Bučko, Marek Štefanec, Tibor Lebocký, Martin Chudý, Rudolf Janto, Filip Kubek and Rudolf Kropil

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1027; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111027 - 23 Oct 2025

Abstract

African swine fever (ASF) has reshaped wild boar (Sus scrofa) populations and management across Europe since its reintroduction in 2007. ASF reached Slovakia in August 2019, when wild boar population size and harvest were at six-decade maximums. We analyzed data from [...] Read more.

African swine fever (ASF) has reshaped wild boar (Sus scrofa) populations and management across Europe since its reintroduction in 2007. ASF reached Slovakia in August 2019, when wild boar population size and harvest were at six-decade maximums. We analyzed data from six years (2019–2024) of national surveillance and control to quantify spatio-temporal ASF patterns in free-ranging wild boar. Using monthly virological (PCR) and serological (antibody) data from active (hunted) and passive (found dead) surveillance, we (1) estimated temporal variation in the effective reproduction number (R_t); (2) modeled spatio-temporal prevalence in Slovakia and its eastern, central, and western regions; (3) linked these dynamics to management indicators such as wild boar density, harvest, and mortality; and (4) proposed measures to increase surveillance and control effectiveness. Passive surveillance showed greater diagnostic sensitivity than active surveillance for case detection (PCR: 46.5% vs. 0.48%; antibodies: 7.62% vs. 0.75%). R_t peaked at 3.83 in March 2021, then declined but periodically exceeded 1.0 through late 2024. Virological prevalence showed strong late-winter/early-spring seasonality and a persistent east-to-west gradient: peaks occurred first in the east (March 2021, March 2023), with the center surpassing the east in October 2023 and a subsequent rise in the west. Seroprevalence lagged and shifted westward later, peaking in March 2023 and increasing in western Slovakia from mid-2024. Wild boar density decreased by 36.3% from 2019 to 2024 and harvest-based density by 42.8%, returning to post-classical swine fever levels (2009–2013). We recommend prioritizing targeted carcass searches and rapid removal, maintaining low wild boar densities through sustained harvest of adult females, modernizing population monitoring methods, enhancing hunters’ compliance, and strengthening cross-border coordination to improve surveillance and control, thereby slowing ASF spread across Europe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wildlife Health and Disease in Conservation)

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12 pages, 1185 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of High Dietary Salt Intake on Macro-Mineral Status of Lactating Camels Raised Under Arid Conditions

by Riyadh S. Aljumaah, Moez Ayadi, Abdulkareem M. Matar, Ahmed A. K. Salama, Gerardo Caja, Mohammed A. Alshaikh and Mutassim M. Abdelrahman

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1026; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111026 - 23 Oct 2025

Abstract

This study examined the effects of high dietary salt intake on the concentrations of major microminerals (K, Na, P, Mg, and Ca) in the serum and milk of lactating dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius). Twelve multiparous camels were assigned in a two-period [...] Read more.

This study examined the effects of high dietary salt intake on the concentrations of major microminerals (K, Na, P, Mg, and Ca) in the serum and milk of lactating dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius). Twelve multiparous camels were assigned in a two-period crossover design to receive either a control diet containing 1.5% NaCl (CON) or a salt-supplemented diet containing 4.5% NaCl (T1). Each period lasted 21 days, including 14 days of adaptation and 7 days of sampling. Blood and milk samples were analyzed using inductively coupled serum–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Camels fed the high-salt diet showed lower serum concentrations of Mg and Ca (p < 0.05). Milk concentrations of Mg, K, and Ca increased under high-salt intake (p < 0.05), whereas Na and P decreased. Correlation analysis revealed negative associations between P intake and milk Ca, as well as between milk Ca and serum Mg. While positive associations were observed between K intake and milk Ca, and between Ca and Mg within milk. Principal component analysis further demonstrated distinct clustering of minerals according to dietary treatment. These results highlight the complex regulation of mineral partitioning between serum and milk in camels exposed to saline diets, underscoring their adaptive capacity to arid environments. The findings provide insights for developing mineral supplementation strategies tailored to camel production systems in regions with high dietary salinity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Nutritional and Metabolic Diseases in Veterinary Medicine)

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16 pages, 890 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Combined Application of Intra-Articular Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections and Photobiomodulation Improves Clinical Outcomes in Dogs with Osteoarthritis—Results of a Long-Term, Double-Blinded, Crossover Study

by J. C. Alves, Ana Santos and L. Miguel Carreira

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1025; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111025 - 23 Oct 2025

Abstract

Thirty dogs were equally assigned to a platelet-rich plasma group (PRPG), a photobiomodulation group (PBMTG), or a combined therapies group (PRP + PBMTG). Response to treatment was evaluated with weight-bearing distribution and different owner-reported outcome measures. Evaluations were conducted at 0, +8, +15, [...] Read more.

Thirty dogs were equally assigned to a platelet-rich plasma group (PRPG), a photobiomodulation group (PBMTG), or a combined therapies group (PRP + PBMTG). Response to treatment was evaluated with weight-bearing distribution and different owner-reported outcome measures. Evaluations were conducted at 0, +8, +15, +30, +60, +90, +120, +150, and +180 days after the initial treatment. After the first 180 days, a crossover was performed, and a second 180-day follow-up was conducted. A second cross-over was performed, with a final 180-day follow-up. Nineteen males and eleven females were included, with a mean age of 9.4 ± 2.7 years and a body weight of 26.6 ± 3.8 kg. Six hips were classified as mild, eighteen as moderate, and six as severe. All treatments were able to produce clinically significant improvements in different evaluation modalities, with varied degrees of magnitude and duration. At the last follow-up, the combination of PRP and PBMT had a greater effect, showing a significant difference compared to the isolated treatments, with a moderate to large effect size. Kaplan–Meier estimators showed that PRP + PBMTG had more extended periods with better results. PRP and PBMT could improve objective outcomes and client-reported outcome measures in dogs with OA. Their combined use leads to greater, longer-lasting, clinically significant improvements. Full article

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13 pages, 2475 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Ultrasonic Treatment of Chicken Yolk on the Cryopreservation of Boar Semen

by Yanyan Liu, Fuqiang Chang, Biyu Zhang, Haidong Liu, Meng Zhou, Xin Zhang, Shouqian Sang, Xiu Li, Jing Li, Qianqian Hu, Youfang Gu and Chongmei Ruan

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1024; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111024 - 22 Oct 2025

Abstract

Ultrasonic treatment significantly improves the emulsifying properties of chicken egg yolk. This advancement not only provides a novel approach for enhancing the physical stability of yolk-based cryodiluents, but also holds promising implications for optimizing the cryopreservation efficacy of boar semen. This study evaluated [...] Read more.

Ultrasonic treatment significantly improves the emulsifying properties of chicken egg yolk. This advancement not only provides a novel approach for enhancing the physical stability of yolk-based cryodiluents, but also holds promising implications for optimizing the cryopreservation efficacy of boar semen. This study evaluated the effects of conventional egg yolk (CON) and ultrasonicated egg yolk (UT-CEY) on boar semen cryopreservation. Semen samples were cryopreserved using standard straw freezing methods, with post-thaw sperm quality parameters assessed. Results demonstrated that UT-CEY significantly reduced yolk particle size (p < 0.01), improved emulsion stability (p < 0.01), and decreased creaming index (p < 0.05). Additionally, UT-CEY enhanced total motility, progressive motility, straight-line velocity (VSL), and plasma membrane integrity (p < 0.01), along with acrosome integrity (p < 0.05) compared to CON. Furthermore, catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were elevated in UT-CEY (p < 0.01), while reactive oxygen species (ROS) fluorescence intensity showed no significant difference (p >0.05). Gene expression analysis revealed upregulated Bcl-2, CAT (p < 0.01), and SOD₂ (p < 0.05) in UT-CEY. In conclusion, ultrasonicated egg yolk diluent improves boar semen cryopreservation efficiency and post-thaw sperm quality. Full article

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11 pages, 3655 KB

Open AccessArticle

N-Cadherin-Mediated Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition as a Prognostic Indicator in Canine Melanoma

by Thacyana Beatriz Guimarães Lopes, Daiana Yively Osorio Taborda, Clarice Soares Fenelon, Nayara de Oliveira Duarte, Karen Yumi Ribeiro Nakagaki, Camila Costa Abreu, Mayra Cunha Flecher, Helen Lima Del Puerto and Enio Ferreira

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1023; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111023 - 22 Oct 2025

Abstract

Canine melanoma is a relatively common and clinically significant neoplasm in veterinary oncology, with important prognostic implications. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), associated with changes in cell adhesion and increased metastatic potential, remains poorly characterized in this tumor type. We evaluated E-cadherin and N-cadherin expression [...] Read more.

Canine melanoma is a relatively common and clinically significant neoplasm in veterinary oncology, with important prognostic implications. Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), associated with changes in cell adhesion and increased metastatic potential, remains poorly characterized in this tumor type. We evaluated E-cadherin and N-cadherin expression in 32 primary canine melanomas and their regional lymph nodes, assessing associations with tumor progression and survival. Regional lymph node metastases were observed in 53% of cases. High N-cadherin expression in primary tumors correlated with metastasis and reduced survival, while E-cadherin expression showed no difference between metastatic and non-metastatic tumors. Notably, metastatic primary tumors exhibited a positive correlation between E- and N-cadherin expression. These results indicate that N-cadherin is a potential prognostic marker; and highlight the need for further studies on EMT as a therapeutic target to control metastasis. Full article

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19 pages, 2328 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of Bacterial Diversity and Composition in Oral Fluid from Pigs of Different Ages and Water Pipe Wall Biofilms

by Qinghai Ren, Wenlong Lu, Tingting Zhang, Shengkai Hao, Jiawen Wang, Xinrui Xu, Fei Wang, Zetong Huang, Xiaojing Lei, Shengliang Cao, Duanduan Chen and Yubao Li

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1022; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111022 - 22 Oct 2025

Abstract

Drinking water pipe biofilms, comprising viable microorganisms, microbial residues, and organic/inorganic particulates, pose significant risks to water safety by promoting the proliferation of opportunistic pathogens, pipe corrosion, and degradation of water quality. Their formation is strongly influenced by environmental conditions within the piping [...] Read more.

Drinking water pipe biofilms, comprising viable microorganisms, microbial residues, and organic/inorganic particulates, pose significant risks to water safety by promoting the proliferation of opportunistic pathogens, pipe corrosion, and degradation of water quality. Their formation is strongly influenced by environmental conditions within the piping system. However, there is a lack of systematic research investigating the potential correlations between biofilm microbiota and the oral microbiomes of intensively farmed swine, as well as the age-dependent regulatory mechanisms shaping aquatic microbial communities. This pioneering study conducted a comparative analysis of biofilm microbiota from swine house water pipes and oral microbiomes across three growth stages (30-day BBF, 70-day NBF, and 110-day FBF groups), yielding three key findings. First, the biofilm biomass and dominant bacterial genera (e.g., Brevibacterium in BBF vs. Brevundimonas in FBF) exhibited stage-specific variations associated with swine age. Second, while the oral microbiomes showed no significant taxonomic divergence at the phylum or genus level, they shared characteristic phyla, including Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes, with pipe biofilms, indicating potential cross-habitat microbial interactions. Third, the antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) adeF was consistently detected at high prevalence across all biofilm groups. These findings offer new insights into microbial transmission dynamics and inform risk mitigation strategies for livestock water supply systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Innovative Approaches in Veterinary Health)

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19 pages, 559 KB

Open AccessReview

Reovirus Infections in Broiler Chickens: A Narrative Review

by George-Andrei Călugărița, Iasmina Luca, Radu-Valentin Gros, Tudor-Mihai Căsălean, Alexandru Gavrilă and Adrian Stancu

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1021; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111021 - 22 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Infections caused by avian orthoreovirus represent an emerging problem with a major impact on the global poultry industry, especially in the intensive rearing of broilers. This article addresses, in a complex manner, the etiology of some clinical syndromes of interest in poultry farming: [...] Read more.

Infections caused by avian orthoreovirus represent an emerging problem with a major impact on the global poultry industry, especially in the intensive rearing of broilers. This article addresses, in a complex manner, the etiology of some clinical syndromes of interest in poultry farming: malabsorption syndrome and arthritis/tenosynovitis syndrome. Data are presented, starting from the development and physiology of the digestive tract in broiler chickens in the post-hatch period, epidemiological data, clinical signs, morphopathological changes in the intestine, and diagnostic methods in orthoreovirus infections. The development of the digestive tract is influenced by factors such as diet, digestive enzymes, intestinal pH, and intestinal microbiome/virome. Avian orthoreoviruses, belonging to the Reoviridae family, are double-stranded RNA viruses with multiple tropism. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the existence of at least six major genotypes, with a heterogeneous geographical distribution and genetic diversity that complicates control measures with vaccination. Characterization of the intestinal virome of broilers highlights many other enteric viruses, in addition to reoviruses, with pathogenic potential in triggering malabsorption syndrome. Thus, we can state that the etiology of malabsorption syndrome is not unitary, with the association of several viruses with intestinal tropism aggravating the clinical signs. The article describes viral identification methods, including classical techniques and advanced next-generation sequencing (NGS) approaches, used to characterize the intestinal virome and emerging pathogens. Finally, for prophylaxis, autogenous vaccines adapted to local circulating strains are recommended. Frequent genetic recombinations and high antigenic variation require continuous monitoring and constant adaptation of immunization schedules to control the disease. Full article

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

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17 pages, 1263 KB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge, Perceptions, Attitudes, and Practices of Dog and Cat Owners Regarding Skin Tumors: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Cláudia Cardoso, Rita Files, Filipe Silva, Patricia Barbedo, Justina Prada and Isabel Pires

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(11), 1020; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12111020 - 22 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Skin tumors are among the most common neoplasms in dogs and cats, sharing biological and environmental risk factors with human cancers. Owners play a critical role in early detection, yet little is known about their knowledge and attitudes. This study aimed to assess [...] Read more.

Skin tumors are among the most common neoplasms in dogs and cats, sharing biological and environmental risk factors with human cancers. Owners play a critical role in early detection, yet little is known about their knowledge and attitudes. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, and practices of Portuguese pet owners regarding skin tumors in companion animals. An online cross-sectional survey was completed by 420 respondents. Overall, awareness of risk factors such as sun exposure and age was relatively high, but most owners were unable to identify specific tumor types or locations. Only one-quarter believed skin tumors are curable, while the majority expressed uncertainty. Women, those with multiple or long-term pet ownership, and individuals with family or personal experience of cancer showed greater knowledge and more proactive behaviors. However, a gap between knowledge and practice still remains. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational strategies to enhance owners’ health literacy, facilitate early detection, and promote timely veterinary care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Veterinary Neurology and Oncology in Europe: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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