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        <title>Frontiers in Veterinary Science | New and Recent Articles</title>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science</link>
        <description>RSS Feed for Frontiers in Veterinary Science | New and Recent Articles</description>
        <language>en-us</language>
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        <pubDate>2026-05-04T21:04:37.41+00:00</pubDate>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1794290</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1794290</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Analysis of mRNA and miRNA expression in RAW 264.7 macrophages infected with Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Dublin in the early stage of infection]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Brief Research Report</category>
        <author>Zi Wang</author><author>Miao Sun</author><author>Zipeng Zhang</author><author>Yongqiang Wang</author><author>Shengjie Tong</author><author>Linghao Meng</author><author>Dongxu Han</author><author>Xinran Ge</author><author>Hengli Chen</author><author>Dahan Yang</author><author>Kai Liu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Dublin (Salmonella Dublin) is a host-adapted pathogen that causes severe systemic disease in cattle and presents a zoonotic risk to humans. While macrophages play a pivotal role in host defense against Salmonella they are also an intracellular niche for bacterial persistence. However, the mechanism underlying the early transcriptional response of macrophages to Salmonella Dublin infection is poorly understood. This study used high-throughput sequencing to profile mRNA and miRNA expression in RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages 2 h after infection with Salmonella Dublin compared to uninfected control cells. A total of 1,080 differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs were identified, of which 492 were up-regulated and 588 were down-regulated. In addition, 23 DE miRNAs, 18 up-regulated and 5 down-regulated, were identified. Meanwhile, KEGG enrichment analysis indicated significant enrichment of the DE mRNAs and miRNAs in signaling pathways associated with macrophage immune activation, including the TNF, HIF-1, and MAPK signaling pathways, as well as those involved in responses to Salmonella infection. The accuracy of the mRNA sequencing results was verified using RT-qPCR. In conclusion, the findings showed significant up-regulation of Acod1, Ccl22, Bcl2a1b, miR-146-3p, and miR-150-5p in the early stages of Salmonella Dublin infection of mouse macrophages, suggesting the involvement of these molecules in regulating the host immune response.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1766294</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1766294</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Case Report: Surgical excision of urethral transitional cell carcinoma by total urethrectomy combined with partial cystectomy and vesicovaginal urinary diversion in two female dogs]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Case Report</category>
        <author>Wookhun Chung</author><author>Kihoon Kim</author><author>Jaewoong Han</author><author>Byung-Joon Seung</author><author>Young-Hyun Goo</author><author>Sun-Hee Do</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), or urothelial carcinoma, is the most common malignant tumor of the canine urinary bladder or urethra, often causing urinary obstruction. While chemotherapy is generally considered as primary management, surgical treatments, including total or partial cystectomy, have occasionally been reported. This report describes two cases of canine urethral TCC managed with total urethrectomy combined with partial cystectomy and vesicovaginal urinary diversion. In both cases, the entire urethral segment and distal urinary bladder were removed while preserving the ureteral orifices. Ventral cystostomy was performed to expose the masses, and special care was taken to maintain vascular supply to the bladder. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. Although chemotherapy was recommended, it was performed in only one case. Urinary flow from the urinary bladder to vagina was successfully diverted without ureteral reimplantation. No recurrence was observed for approximately one year postoperatively in Case 1 and one and a half years in Case 2, respectively. These findings suggest that total urethrectomy combined with partial cystectomy and vesicovaginal urinary diversion is a feasible and effective surgical approach for localized urethral TCC in female dogs.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1768722</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1768722</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Comparative diagnostic efficacy of swab stick and pipette sampling techniques for vaginal cytology in oestrous detection of West African Dwarf Goats]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Ugochinyere J. Njoga</author><author>Ugochi M. Nwaibe</author><author>Ibe N. Patrick</author><author>Onoh E. Chukwubuike</author><author>Izuchukwu S. Ochiogu</author><author>John I. Ihedioha</author><author>Kenneth O. Anya</author><author>Emmanuel O. Njoga</author><author>James W. Oguttu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundAccurate detection and monitoring of the oestrous cycle in West African Dwarf (WAD) goats is indispensable for reproductive management. Vaginal cytology is commonly used, but different collection methods may vary in diagnostic efficacy, smear quality, and animal safety. This study compared the diagnostic efficacy of pipette and swab stick methods for monitoring the oestrous cycle of WAD goats.MethodsFour cyclic WAD goats were sampled repeatedly for four consecutive days using both pipette and swab stick methods. A total of 16 samples were collected from each doe during the 4-day sampling period. Smears were evaluated for cell types (parabasal, intermediate, superficial), debris, and cellular distortion. Animal response to sampling was assessed via bleating and presence of blood cells to determine trauma. Economic and comprehensive diagnostic cost-effectiveness were also evaluated. Data were analyzed using paired-sample t-test, Chi-square, and Fisher’s Exact Test where appropriate.ResultsSwab stick smears yielded a higher proportion of superficial cells (9.41 ± 2.35) than pipette smears (4.04 ± 0.93, p = 0.03), while parabasal cells were higher in pipette smears (1.97 ± 0.43 vs. 0.28 ± 0.08, p = 0.001). Heavy debris was observed more frequently in pipette smears (68.8%) than swab stick smears (25.0%, p = 0.032). No pipette smears exhibited cellular distortion, whereas swab stick smears showed mild to severe distortion (Fisher’s Exact Test, p = 0.007). Pipette sample collection caused greater trauma, indicated by prolonged bleating and moderate blood cell presence, compared with swab sampling. Although pipettes were more economical due to their lower cost and reusability, swab sticks demonstrated higher overall diagnostic cost-effectiveness when factors such as smear quality, trauma, and diagnostic yield were taken into account.ConclusionBoth methods are effective for monitoring the oestrous cycle in WAD goats; however, swab sticks offer higher diagnostic yield in detecting heat and lower trauma, whereas pipettes are more economical. Selection of method should balance cost, diagnostic performance, and animal welfare. Future studies with larger sample sizes are recommended to confirm these findings.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1797693</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1797693</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Molecular characterization of Coxiella burnetii in livestock species in Isiolo County, Kenya and the associated risks factors for seropositivity]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Enock Kiprono</author><author>Hussein M. Abkallo</author><author>Richard Nyamota</author><author>Lynn J. Kirwa</author><author>Reuben Mwangi</author><author>Athman Mwatondo</author><author>Eugine Mukhaye</author><author>Mathew Muturi</author><author>Joel L. Bargul</author><author>James M. Akoko</author><author>Bernard Bett</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundCoxiella burnetii is the causative agent of Q fever, a zoonotic infection that poses serious threats to both animal and human health, particularly in the Global South. It infects livestock such as cattle, sheep and goats including wildlife and can lead to both agricultural and economic losses.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted to collect blood and serum samples from aborted livestock; 18 Cattle, 22 Sheep, and 72 goats from March 2022 to August 2023. The samples were screened for antibodies against Coxiella burnetii and the nucleic acids for Coxiella, respectively. Before the onset of our study, all the three livestock species; goats, cattle and sheep in Kinna ward were first sampled to determine the presence of C. burnetii. A total of 275 collected samples were screened for prior exposure of C. burnetii and its results were used as reference for this study thus referred to as baseline study.ResultsA total of 387 samples were analyzed consisting of 112 from the cross-sectional study and 275 from the baseline study to determine the presence of anti C. burnetii antibodies. Our results showed that goats had higher seropositivity 49.65% (71/143, 95%CI: 41.97–57.75) followed by sheep 16.67% (15/90, 95%CI: 10.37–25.69) and cattle 3.25% (5/154, 95%CI: 1.40–7.37). Livestock species with a history of abortion had higher seropositivity of 33.89% (goats 57/62, sheep 4/62, cattle 1/62, 95%CI: 27.38–41.08) compared to non-aborting from the baseline study (goats 15/30, sheep 11/30, cattle 4/30, 95%CI: 10.34–19.93). Conditional logistic regression model identified abortion as a significant risk factor, with goats being 26.71 times more likely to abort than cattle, and sheep 3.59 times more likely than cattle. Among the 112 blood samples, 54 constituting 34 goats, 12 cattle and 8 sheep tested positive by qPCR and 16 of these were subjected to Sanger sequencing.ConclusionPhylogenetic analysis, performed using the maximum likelihood approach, provided insights into the genetic diversity and circulation of C. burnetii strains. Findings from this study will support the development of intervention strategies such as vaccination or biosecurity improvements aimed at reducing abortion rates and economic losses in small ruminant and cattle production systems.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1805014</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1805014</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Animal models for diabetic kidney disease: perspectives and prospects]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Perspective</category>
        <author>Min Zeng</author><author>Qin Gong</author><author>Hua Shen</author><author>Long Chen</author><author>Wanxia Zhang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the most severe complications of diabetes. Animal models of DKD play a crucial role in elucidating disease pathogenesis, exploring therapeutic strategies, and developing pharmacological interventions. This article systematically reviews the methodologies for establishing the four main categories of DKD animal models (induced, spontaneous, genetically engineered, and disease-syndrome combination models). We summarize the advantages, disadvantages, and inherent limitations of each model type. For each category, feasible optimization strategies are proposed. We advocate for the establishment of a forward-looking, “purpose-oriented” research paradigm. This paradigm aims to guide researchers in selecting models more precisely, optimizing them more proactively, and aligning evaluation criteria with clinical practice, thereby significantly enhancing the success rate and translational value of DKD research.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1759250</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1759250</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Case Report: Secondary ulnar overgrowth and elbow incongruity following chronic forelimb disuse in a dog]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Case Report</category>
        <author>Tae-Yoon Eom</author><author>Gyu-Sung Choi</author><author>Mu-Young Kim</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Chronic limb disuse during the active growth phase can induce complex secondary deformities, including paradoxical bone overgrowth. A 12-month-old neutered male Toy Poodle presented with non-weight-bearing right forelimb lameness resulting from a chronic shoulder malunion following failed stabilization of a medial luxation. Computed tomography revealed a complete nonunion of the shoulder joint with severe varus deformity, alongside a significant secondary ulnar overgrowth (6.08% elongation compared with the contralateral ulna) that created a functional ‘short-radius’ configuration and elbow incongruity. A combined surgical approach was employed: shoulder arthrodesis was performed utilizing patient-specific 3D-printed osteotomy and reduction guides to ensure precise alignment and fixation at a target angle of 105°, concurrent with a proximal ulnar osteotomy to restore ulnar congruity. Postoperative recovery was rapid, with functional weight-bearing observed at 1 month. At 9 months postoperatively, the dog exhibited normal limb function without lameness, and radiographs confirmed solid arthrodesis and corrected elbow alignment. These findings remained unchanged at 15 months postoperatively. This case highlights chronic disuse as a potential etiology for paradoxical ulnar overgrowth and demonstrates a successful combined surgical strategy for the management of complex, multi-joint limb deformities.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1832720</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1832720</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Rumen-protected guanidinoacetic acid is associated with improved growth performance and altered portal nutrient and hepatic IGF-1 indices in Hu sheep]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Wenshu Zhu</author><author>Congcong Tian</author><author>Wenshuai Zeng</author><author>Yong Chen</author><author>Mengjian Liu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionGuanidinoacetic acid (GAA), the direct precursor of creatine, has been shown to improve growth performance in monogastric animals, but its metabolic effects in ruminants remain unclear. This study examined whether dietary GAA and rumen-protected GAA (RPGAA) are associated with changes in intestinal creatine-related metabolism, portal nutrient concentrations, and hepatic IGF-1 expression in Hu sheep.MethodsTwenty-seven Hu rams were randomly assigned to three treatments for 45 days: a basal diet (control), the basal diet supplemented with 1.0 g/kg GAA, or the basal diet supplemented with 1.0 g/kg RPGAA. Growth performance, intestinal mucosal GAA and creatine concentrations, expression of genes related to creatine metabolism and nutrient transport, portal blood nutrient concentrations, serum biochemical variables, and hepatic IGF-1 indices were determined.ResultsRPGAA significantly increased final body weight and average daily gain and decreased feed-to-gain ratio (p < 0.05). RPGAA increased GAA and creatine concentrations in the jejunal mucosa, downregulated AGAT mRNA expression, and upregulated transporter-related genes (p < 0.01). These changes were accompanied by higher concentrations of glucose, arginine, methionine, and lysine in portal blood (p < 0.05), as well as increased hepatic IGF-1 mRNA expression and IGF-1 concentration (p < 0.01). In addition, serum glucose and albumin increased, whereas total cholesterol and bilirubin decreased in the RPGAA group (p < 0.05).DiscussionThese findings suggest that the improved growth performance induced by RPGAA is associated with enhanced jejunal GAA availability, portal nutrient concentrations, and hepatic IGF-1 expression in Hu sheep.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1788878</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1788878</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Lack of online price transparency of small animal veterinary clinics in the United States]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Alexis Adams</author><author>Alexandra Gilley</author><author>Victoria Morris</author><author>Lauren Wisnieski</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionThe cost of veterinary care is a significant concern for many pet owners. Despite the growing use of the internet for service-related information, there is limited research regarding the accessibility of veterinary pricing information on veterinary clinic websites.Materials and methodsTo address this gap, the present study investigated the transparency of online veterinary service pricing on websites for small animal clinics within the United States through a cross-sectional study design. The country was divided into four divisions based on the U.S. Census, with two randomly selected states selected from each division (Wyoming, California, Michigan, Illinois, Maine, New York, Florida, and Kentucky). Systematic random sampling within state was used to select five distinct zip codes, comprising of two urban, two rural, and one suburban area per Census definitions. The first five clinics within a specific zip code on Google Maps search results were included for analysis. Prices for routine dog and cat services were extracted from clinic websites. These included core vaccinations, sterilization procedures (spay and neuter surgeries), nail trims, dental procedures, and “Wellness Plans.”ResultsAlthough a maximum of five clinics per zip code were targeted, resulting in an estimated sample size of 200 clinics, some of the selected zip codes had fewer than five clinics, resulting in a final size of 177 clinics. Among these, 157 clinics (88.70%, 157/177) had websites available for review, demonstrating a high level of online presence. However, information on specific service pricing was sparse. Three clinics (1.91%, 3/157) provided pricing information for services on their websites. Similarly, only seven clinics (4.46%, 7/157) offered a Wellness Plan option for patients, 2/157 (1.27%) clinics mentioned insurance options, 13/157 (8.28%) clinics listed payment options such as CareCredit, Scratch pay, check, cash, and 14/157 (8.92%) clinics offered discounts such as free or reduced cost first visit fees.DiscussionThese findings highlight a substantial gap in online price transparency, underscoring the need for increased transparency to promote informed decision-making and trust between clients and veterinarians.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1769637</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1769637</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Dose-dependent effects of pomegranate peel extract on modulating ruminal fermentation, methane emission, nutrient digestibility and productive values in camels: an in vitro and in silico integrations]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Abdullah Sheikh</author><author>Hesham S. Ghazzawy</author><author>Roshmon Thomas Mathew</author><author>Mohamed Ashour</author><author>Rania Ali El Hadi Mohamed</author><author>Ehab El-Haroun</author><author>Ali S. A. Saleem</author><author>Mohamed M. A. Abd-Elkarim</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionSustainable management of bioactive-rich byproducts, including pomegranate peels, is crucial to support the rise of environmentally resilient intensive camel farming. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) (0, 0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg) on methane production gas production, nutrient digestibility, and predictive values in camels through in vitro model and molecular docking simulations.Materials and methodsRumen samples were fortified with PPE at levels of 0 (PPE0), 0.5 (PPE0.5), 1 (PPE1), and 2 (PPE2) g/kg diet to assess methane emissions, gas production, nutrient digestibility, and predictive values. Molecular docking was used to assess the inhibition of the methanogenic pathway enzymes formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase (Fmd), F420H2 oxidase, and shikimate dehydrogenase (SDH) by ellagic acid (EA) and punicalagin (PG).ResultsThe PPE1 and PPE0.5 groups showed significantly higher gas production across all incubation intervals (3, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h; p < 0.001). Supplementation at 0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg significantly (p < 0.05) lowered methane emissions (by 11.62, 13.17, and 19.39%) and total digestible dry matter (by 20.30, 22.19, 33.34%) relative to the control, respectively. PPE1 group significantly improved dry matter digestibility (p < 0.01, linear effect) and TVFA production (p < 0.05, quadratic effect) compared to the control. Rumen pH was significantly affected by treatment, with the lowest values observed in the PPE0.5 and PPE1 groups (p < 0.01, quadratic effect). All PPE groups had greater SCFA levels relative to the control group (p < 0.001, quadratic effect). The PPE1 and PPE0.5 treatments showed higher ME, NEL, and OMD, and lower partitioning factor (PF) compared to the other groups (p < 0.001, quadratic effect). The PPE1 group had the greatest MCP compared to other groups (p < 0.05). Docking analysis revealed that punicalagin (PG) exhibited superior binding affinities (−10.04 kcal/mol) against SDH compared to ellagic acid (EA), which reached a peak of −7.22 kcal/mol against F420H2 oxidase. PG also demonstrated better binding stability against F420H2 oxidase oxidase (−8.05 kcal/mol) compared to EA (−7.22 kcal/mol).ConclusionThese results suggest that dietary inclusion of 0.5 or 1 g/kg PPE significantly improves nutrient digestibility, productive performance, and rumen fermentation efficiency, while concurrently reducing methane emissions using an in vitro model in camels.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1824547</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1824547</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Melatonin administration as a strategy to mitigate weaning stress in Lacaune lambs]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>María Moreno-Manrique</author><author>Joel Bueso- Ródenas</author><author>Carlos Mínguez</author><author>Carla Ibáñez</author><author>Marta González</author><author>Xavier Valldecabres</author><author>Arantxa Villagrá</author><author>Rodolfo Ungerfeld</author><author>Aline Freitas-de-Melo</author>
        <description><![CDATA[IntroductionWeaning from artificial milk feeding represents a critical transition in intensively reared dairy lambs, involving dietary change, relocation, and social reorganization, all of which may compromise welfare, immune status, and growth performance. Melatonin, owing to its anxiolytic, antioxidant, and immuno-modulatory properties, has been proposed as a potential strategy to mitigate stress-related responses during this period.MethodsSixty Lacaune lambs were randomly assigned at weaning to one of three treatments: control (saline injection), intravenous melatonin (18 mg), or a slow-release subcutaneous melatonin implant. Behavioral patterns were recorded from Day −3 to Day 3 relative to weaning, and body weight was monitored until Day 31. Hematological parameters, serum cortisol, acute phase proteins (CRP and haptoglobin), and fecal Escherichia coli counts were assessed on Days −4 and 4.ResultsSubcutaneous melatonin implants attenuated several behavioral indicators of weaning stress, including walking, bleating, and suckling attempts, and were associated with improved post-weaning growth performance from Day 11 onward. Intravenous administration produced limited effects. Cortisol concentrations increased in melatonin-treated lambs on Day 4, although this was not accompanied by adverse behavioral or productive outcomes. Most hematological parameters were unaffected by treatment; however, hemoglobin concentration increased selectively in the implant group. Acute phase proteins and fecal E. coli counts did not differ among treatments.DiscussionSustained melatonin administration via subcutaneous implants improved behavioral adaptation and post-weaning growth without evidence of detrimental health effects. These findings suggest that slow-release melatonin may represent a promising supportive strategy during the weaning transition in intensive dairy sheep systems.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1851831</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1851831</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Editorial: Advances in precision livestock management for grazing ruminant systems]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Editorial</category>
        <author>Paulo de Mello Tavares Lima</author><author>Tiago do Prado Paim</author>
        <description></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1791118</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1791118</link>
        <title><![CDATA[In vitro assessment of foot-and-mouth disease vaccine immunogenicity: advances, challenges, and ethical considerations]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-01T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Lebogang Othusitse</author><author>Tshephang I. Kabelo</author><author>Kaone A. Nkwe</author><author>LaToya Seoke</author><author>Elliot M. Fana</author><author>Kebaneilwe Lebani</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Vaccination is widely used to control foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), necessitating robust approaches for evaluating vaccine potency to ensure a consistent supply of effective and safe vaccines. Traditional (in vivo) potency testing methods rely on live animal models, raising ethical concerns, logistical constraints, procedural variability and significant financial costs. In vitro approaches have therefore been increasingly explored to complement these methods and address these challenges. Recent advancements in in vitro methodologies have focused on assessing vaccine-induced immune responses and virus-neutralizing activity using a variety of innovative cell-based assays, recombinant protein-based immunoassays, and molecular techniques, all of which have shown promise as surrogate tools that support vaccine potency evaluation. However, several challenges persist in optimizing these in vitro methods. Key obstacles include the standardization of assay protocols, ensuring reproducibility across different laboratories, and addressing the complexities of immune responses that occur in vivo, which are difficult to replicate in in vitro environments. Furthermore, there remains a need for robust validation of in vitro assays using a broad range of field isolates to ensure their relevance to diverse viral strains. This review examines the current landscape of in vitro approaches supporting FMD vaccine-induced immune responses, detailing both the advancements made in assay development and the challenges that remain to be overcome. Furthermore, there is discussion of the role of these methods in complementing conventional animal-based testing, particularly as non-invasive endpoints aligned with the principles of the 3Rs (replacement, reduction, and refinement), with potential to improve efficiency, ethical standards, and global FMD control strategies.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1788257</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1788257</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Incidence, risk factors, and prognosis of acute kidney injury in mechanically ventilated dogs and cats]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-01T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Zhi H. Hsu</author><author>Alex M. Lynch</author><author>Ronald H. Li</author><author>Bernie Hansen</author><author>Yu Ueda</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveTo evaluate the incidence, risk factors, and prognostic impact of acute kidney injury (AKI) in dogs and cats managed with mechanical ventilation (MV).DesignRetrospective single-institution study (Jan 2015–Aug 2023).SettingUniversity teaching hospital.Animals96 animals, including 81 dogs and 15 cats, undergoing MV management.Measurements and main resultsThe incidence of AKI in this animal cohort was 26% (25/96). There was no significant difference in AKI incidence between dogs and cats (p > 0.99). The mortality rate of animals with AKI was 64% (16/25) while those without AKI was 50.7% (36/71) (p = 0.35). AKI development was not significantly associated with the survival to discharge rate, while SpO2 measured before (p = 0.01) and after initiation of MV (p = 0.0079) and duration of hospitalization (p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with the survival to discharge rate. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, age, baseline serum creatinine, congestive heart failure status, and duration of MV and hospitalization were not independently associated with AKI development.ConclusionAKI was common in animals managed with MV. However, the development of AKI was not significantly associated with the survival to discharge rate in this cohort.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1727080</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1727080</link>
        <title><![CDATA[A review on phytochemical and bacteriophage based therapeutic strategies for the management of Brucellosis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-01T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Rajshree Vidyashankar</author><author>Subhash Verma</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Brucellosis, a zoonotic disease, triggers severe inflammation and reproductive complications in both humans and animals. The standard treatment protocol relies on prolonged antibiotic courses, often combining streptomycin and doxycycline, or gentamicin and doxycycline, for a duration of six to eight weeks. However, concerns have arisen regarding the efficacy, with a notable 15% failure rate and frequent relapses. The lack of suitable vaccines and the rise of antimicrobial resistance in Brucella spp., due to prolonged antibiotic use further complicate the issue. This review underscores the pressing issue of antibiotic resistance, prompting an exploration of alternative treatment avenues. Phytochemicals like polyphenols and terpenoid rich essential oils have been reported to possess strong anti-Brucellar activity and function by disrupting cell wall and membrane functions, prevent binding to host cells and internalization and inhibit DNA replication and transcription and enzyme synthesis. Similarly, bacteriophages, have demonstrated promise as diagnostic, therapeutic and biocontrol agents in Brucellosis management. The efficacy of bacteriophage mediated strategies can be enhanced by site specific delivery through nano-encapsulation techniques while engineered phages can be used for diagnosis and modulate immune response in host. These alternative therapies have even been found to stimulate innate immunity in host. However, the precise mechanisms through which these treatments operate remain elusive, warranting further investigation. In conclusion, this paper advocates for the integration of novel plant-based therapy as adjuvant treatment option for both human and livestock brucellosis, while phage therapy as complementary strategy to augment the conventional treatments in livestock brucellosis. These non-antibiotic alternatives aim to improve treatment efficacy, reduce the required duration of conventional antibiotic regimens, and minimize economic losses in agriculture. The future of brucellosis management may lie in a multi-faceted approach that combines antibiotics with innovative, natural alternatives.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1798131</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1798131</link>
        <title><![CDATA[A rapid visual detection method for indel polymorphisms in the bovine PRNP gene based on a duplex MIRA-LFD assay]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-01T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Ye Xu</author><author>Siyu Yang</author><author>Siling Ding</author><author>Ting Xu</author><author>Like Zhu</author><author>Weiming Xiao</author><author>Jian Ge</author><author>Feng Guan</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Insertion/deletion (indel) polymorphisms in the bovine PRNP gene promoter region (23 bp) and intron 1 (12 bp) influence gene expression and susceptibility to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). Conventional detection methods based on DNA sequencing are cumbersome and time-consuming. This study developed a visual detection method for these two polymorphic loci using multienzyme isothermal rapid amplification (MIRA) combined with lateral flow dipstick (LFD) technology, enabling efficient, low-cost, and rapid analysis. We designed specific MIRA primers and LFD probes for the bovine PRNP gene and optimized the reaction system. This allows the 12 bp and 23 bp indel polymorphisms to be detected visually based on the presence or absence of colored bands on test strips. By employing specific probes for each locus on a single duplex strip, the assay facilitates the simultaneous visual detection and haplotyping of both polymorphic loci. Tests on 62 randomly selected commercial cattle-derived products showed that the genotyping results for both loci were completely consistent with sequencing results. The established method is simple, convenient, highly specific, and easy to operate. It has minimal requirements for laboratory equipment, providing a practical technical platform for PRNP-assisted breeding in cattle and for the genotyping analysis of cattle products.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1755813</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1755813</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Identification and antimicrobial susceptibility of bacteria isolated from corneal ulcers and healthy eyes of canines in Ibagué-Tolima, Colombia]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-01T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Research</category>
        <author>Dunia Yisela Trujillo Piso</author><author>Yeli Camila Van-Arcken Aguilar</author><author>Mónica Yamile Padilla Barreto</author><author>María del Pilar Sánchez Bonilla</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveTo identify the ocular microbiota of healthy dogs and with corneal ulcers, and the sensitivity-resistance of the isolated bacteria to antibiotics.Animal studied60 dogs were included. 30 of them free of clinical or ophthalmic disease; 30 diagnosed with a corneal ulcer.ProceduresSamples for microbiological analysis were obtained by a sterile swab passed over the conjunctival sac and the cornea. The samples were inoculated on agars and identified by microscopy, Gram stain, and biochemical tests. Sensidiscs of sulfa, ciprofloxacin, tobramycin, tetracycline and gentamicin were included for the antibiogram.Results67% of the patients with corneal ulcers showed bacterial growth; 83% were Gram-positive bacteria. Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., and Pseudomonas spp. were the most frequently isolated bacteria and were mainly sensitive to ciprofloxacin, followed by tobramycin, sulfa drugs, gentamicin, and tetracycline. 33% of the healthy patients showed bacterial growth with predominance of Gram-positive bacteria. The bacterial genera mainly isolated were Staphylococcus spp., Bacillus spp. and Acinetobacter spp., which in turn were sensitive to ciprofloxacin, sulfa drugs and gentamicin, and resistant to tetracycline and tobramycin.ConclusionStaphylococcus was the most frequently isolated genus in healthy and dogs with corneal ulcers. In corneal ulcers, Streptococcus and Pseudomonas also predominate. The bacteria isolated in dogs with and without corneal ulcers were mainly sensitive to ciprofloxacin, hence its use is recommended in these patients, and the use of tetracycline and gentamicin is advised against due to their significant resistance results.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1843100</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1843100</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Current methods and mechanisms for animal models of pelvic inflammatory disease: a review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-05-01T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Guanglong Wang</author><author>Suo Zhang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a complex multifactorial infectious disorder of the female reproductive tract, associated with severe long-term sequelae including infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain, as well as elevated risks of endometriosis, cardiometabolic diseases, and colorectal cancer. Owing to ethical constraints on human research, animal models have become indispensable tools for investigating PID pathogenesis, evaluating therapeutic interventions, and developing novel diagnostic strategies. This review systematically summarizes current advances in PID animal model construction, with a focus on three core induction categories: pathogen, chemical, and physical induction methods. Pathogen induction utilizes single or multiple microorganisms (including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Ureaplasma urealyticum) to recapitulate the infectious etiology of clinical PID. Chemical induction employs agents such as phenol mucilage, hydrochloric acid combined with lipopolysaccharide, and exogenous estrogen to simulate inflammatory processes via direct tissue damage or immune modulation. Physical induction methods include mechanical injury to disrupt mucosal barriers and foreign body implantation to mimic intrauterine device-related chronic inflammation. We further analyze integrated induction strategies that combine multiple approaches to improve model stability and pathological fidelity, and compare the strengths, limitations, and applicable scenarios of each modeling method. Finally, we discuss current gaps in PID animal model research, including the lack of standardized protocols, insufficient characterization of chronic disease progression, and limited translational relevance to human disease, and propose priorities for future model development to support preclinical research on PID prevention and treatment.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1774322</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1774322</link>
        <title><![CDATA[A review on the use of coconut oil to mitigate methane emissions in ruminants: mechanisms of action and research progress]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-30T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Lun Sun</author><author>Xin Wang</author><author>Yong Long</author><author>Xu Wang</author><author>Xinran Niu</author><author>Huijie Li</author><author>Nittaya Taethaisong</author><author>Weerada Meethip</author><author>Siwaporn Paengkoum</author><author>Pramote Paengkoum</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Methane (CH4) generated during ruminal fermentation in ruminants is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and represents a substantial loss of dietary energy. Therefore, mitigating enteric CH4 emissions through safe and efficient nutritional strategies is of considerable ecological and economic significance. Coconut oil (CO) has received increasing attention due to its distinctive fatty acid profile. Accumulating evidence indicates that the medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) abundant in CO exert direct inhibitory effects on rumen protozoa and methanogenic archaea, thereby conferring strong antimethanogenic potential. However, the CH4 mitigation efficacy of CO is often accompanied by trade-offs related to rumen microbial ecology, animal productive performance, and the nutritional quality of animal-derived products, particularly at higher doses where fiber digestibility and dry matter intake (DMI) may decline. Consequently, a clearer definition of safe and effective inclusion levels across different ruminant species and production stages is needed. This review systematically summarizes the physicochemical properties and safety of CO, with particular emphasis on its mechanisms of action within the rumen. Furthermore, current application studies and future research prospects of CO in ruminant production are discussed, providing a scientific reference for its use in nutritional strategy to lower methane in ruminant systems.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1779067</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1779067</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Case Report: Feline spinous process giant-cell osteosarcoma]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-30T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Case Report</category>
        <author>Dries K. M. Vercoutere</author><author>Lucinda L. Van Stee</author><author>Erik A. W. S. Weerts</author><author>Björn P. Meij</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Two adult domestic shorthair cats were evaluated for progressive neurologic deficits caused by spinal cord compression secondary to vertebral osteosarcoma, giant-cell subtype. Feline giant cell osteosarcoma represents a rare tumor type, particularly uncommon in the vertebral column. The cats showed progressive paraparesis or hemiparesis, with neuroanatomic localization to C1–C5 and T3–L3 respectively. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a single, well-demarcated osseous mass arising from the spinous process for and lamina for each patient (case 1 at C6 and case 2 at T4). Both lesions produced marked >50% dorsal spinal cord compression and were isointense to the spinal cord on T1-weighted images and hypointense on T2–weighted images. Cytology prior to surgical intervention was performed in one case, confirming sarcoma diagnosis, and both affected cats underwent a dorsal laminectomy procedure, involving the removal of the affected spinous process and lamina. Histopathology was performed for both patients and confirmed giant cell osteosarcoma in both cases and additional features consistent with the telangiectatic subtype of osteosarcoma in one case. Post-operative recovery included initial resolving of presenting clinical signs, though both cats ultimately experienced recurrent neurological deterioration consistent with local tumor recurrence, leading to euthanasia. These cases illustrate that spinal giant cell osteosarcoma should be considered in cats with progressive myelopathy. They demonstrate that surgical decompression alone can provide substantial neurological improvement, with the potential for medium-term stability or remission. As local tumor recurrence caused eventual relapse of clinical signs, improving pre-, and intraoperative tumor margin identification and applying adjuvant treatments may improve longterm outcome, and should be investigated in future cases.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1778331</guid>
        <link>https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2026.1778331</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Optimizing transducer choice for the detection of alveolar–interstitial syndrome in dogs and cats: an evidence-based review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-30T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Kyle L. Granger</author><author>Cody I. Riffe</author><author>Søren R. Boysen</author><author>Charles T. Talbot</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Alveolar–interstitial syndrome (AIS) is a common ultrasonographic finding in dogs and cats with pulmonary pathology, including cardiogenic pulmonary edema, noncardiogenic pulmonary edema, pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and pulmonary contusion. Point-of-care lung ultrasound (LUS) has emerged as a rapid, noninvasive, and repeatable diagnostic tool for identifying AIS in emergency and critical care patients. Despite its increasing clinical adoption, transducer selection remains largely operator-dependent, with limited evidence-based guidance for veterinary applications. This review synthesizes current veterinary and human literature to evaluate how transducer type influences the detection and characterization of AIS in small animals. The acoustic properties, field of view, penetration depth, and resolution trade-offs of linear, curvilinear, and microconvex transducers are discussed in relation to B-line visualization, pleural line assessment, and detection of subpleural consolidations. Comparative performance data, including the results of recent veterinary studies, are integrated to highlight differences in diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and interobserver reliability. A clinical decision-making framework is proposed, outlining optimal transducer selection by patient size, suspected pathology, and clinical context (triage, monitoring, follow-up). Practical considerations such as transducer availability, equipment ergonomics, and operator training are addressed. Knowledge gaps and future research priorities, including the role of portable devices and AI-assisted image interpretation, are identified. By consolidating the available evidence, this review aims to standardize and optimize transducer selection in veterinary lung ultrasound, improving diagnostic accuracy, accelerating clinical decision-making, and ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in small animal emergency and critical care.]]></description>
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