Open Veterinary Journal最新文献

{"title":"Evaluation of immunological and gene expression responses induced by Galectin-3 and whole-sonicated <i>Candida krusei</i> antigen in rats experimentally infected with <i>Candida krusei</i>.","authors":"Hussein Ali Hussein, Inam Bader Falih","doi":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.8","DOIUrl":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.8","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong><i>Candida krusei</i> is an emerging non<i>-Candida albicans</i> species increasingly associated with antifungal resistance and invasive systemic infections. Galectin-3 (GAL-3), a β-galactosidase-binding lectin, and the surfactant protein D gene are important components of innate antifungal immunity. The chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand-1 gene plays a central role in neutrophil recruitment, whereas whole-sonicated <i>C. krusei</i> antigen may act as a broad fungal immunogen.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>To evaluate the immunological and pulmonary gene expression responses induced by GAL-3, whole-sonicated <i>C. krusei</i> antigen, and their combination in rats experimentally infected with <i>C. krusei</i>, via measurement of serum immunoglobulin G, interleukin-17, interleukin-23, and lung expression of Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL-1) and surfactant protein D genes.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A total of 120 rats were randomly allocated into four experimental groups (<i>n</i> = 30). Animals received GAL-3, whole-sonicated <i>C. krusei</i> antigen, and their combination, while the control group was subdivided into infected and healthy controls. Immunized groups were administered subcutaneously according to the experimental schedule. Systemic <i>C. krusei</i> infection was induced intraperitoneally, and samples were collected at 15 and 30 days post-challenge. Serum Immunoglobulin G, Interleukin -17 (IL-17), and Interleukin -23 (IL-23) levels were measured using ELISA. Pulmonary CXCL-1 and surfactant protein D gene expression were quantified using SYBR Green reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and analyzed using the 2⁻ΔΔCt method.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Immunoglobulin G levels increased significantly in all treated groups compared with infected and healthy controls, with the highest levels at day 30. Whole-sonicated <i>C. krusei</i> antigen and mixed treatment groups showed significant increases in IL-17 and IL-23, indicating activation of Th17-mediated immune responses. Galectin-3 treatment produced upregulation of CXCL-1 and surfactant protein D genes, whereas the antigen-treated group showed moderate gene expression changes. The combined treatment group demonstrated reduced CXCL-1 induction but maintained a modest increase in surfactant protein D expression.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Galectin-3 and whole-sonicated <i>C. krusei</i> antigen may enhance antifungal immune responses through partially distinct mechanisms. Galectin-3 modulates the CXCL-1 and surfactant protein D gene axis and activate innate immune pathways, whereas whole-sonicated antigen stimulates IL-23/IL-17-mediated responses and humoral immunity. These findings suggest that GAL-3 and fungal antigen immunization may represent support immunomodulatory approaches for controlling infections caused by non<i>-C. albicans</i>.</p>","PeriodicalId":19531,"journal":{"name":"Open Veterinary Journal","volume":"16 5","pages":"2659-2666"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13314130/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148353010","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Molecular detection and phylogenetic characterization of <i>Leptospira interrogans</i> in sheltered dogs from Iraq's Kurdistan Region.","authors":"Hardi Fattah Marif, Basim Abdulwahid Ali, Shadman Othman Husin, Sana Jamal Mohammed, Mahran Hssen Ali, Sivan Othman Ali","doi":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.33","DOIUrl":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.33","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Leptospirosis is a major worldwide health concern caused by pathogenic spirochetes from the genus <i>Leptospira</i>. Dogs are a significant reservoir host, particularly in shelter environments, where overcrowding and poor sanitation increase the risk of transmission.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aimed to find <i>Leptospira</i> in protected dogs for the first time, define the <i>leptospira</i> molecularly, and perform a phylogenetic analysis to ascertain the similarities and differences in the sequenced gene among strains from nearby nations.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Eighty blood and urine samples were collected from sheltered dogs under general anesthesia between May and August 2025. The samples were then subjected to DNA extraction and conventional polymerase chain reaction that targeted the conserved secY gene using phylogenetic analysis and sequencing.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Leptospirosis DNA was found in 23 samples (28.75%), including 11 urine samples (13.75%) and 12 blood samples (15%). Male dogs aged 2-3 years had the highest incidence of infection (23.1%), whereas female dogs had the highest rate (23.5%).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>These results highlight the critical need for comprehensive surveillance programs, enhanced biosecurity procedures, and vaccination plans in shelter settings throughout the Kurdistan Region.</p>","PeriodicalId":19531,"journal":{"name":"Open Veterinary Journal","volume":"16 5","pages":"2911-2921"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13314199/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148353022","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Development and evaluation of a duplex recombinase polymerase amplification assay for rapid detection of <i>Streptococcus agalactiae</i> and <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i> in bovine mastitis.","authors":"Jingjing Li, Xujie Zhao, Qianlei Zhu, Jiahui Fu, Mingzhu Zhou, Yilin Bai, Xiaobing Wei, Meinan Chang, Yueyu Bai, Jianhe Hu, Ke Ding, Xiaojing Xia","doi":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.57","DOIUrl":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.57","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Bovine mastitis caused by <i>Streptococcus agalactiae</i> (GBS) and <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i> <b>(</b>KP) causes severe economic losses in the dairy industry. The rapid, accurate, and on-site detection of these pathogens is essential for timely diagnosis and control.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aimed to develop and validate a duplex recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assay for the simultaneous, rapid, and sensitive detection of GBS and KP in bovine mastitis.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Conserved cfb (GBS) and rcsA (KP) genes were targeted, and specific primer pairs were designed for duplex RPA assay development. The reaction conditions, including amplification temperature, time, and primer ratios, were optimized. Analytical sensitivity was assessed using serial dilutions of genomic DNA, and specificity was evaluated against 6 non-target bacterial species. Clinical applicability was determined by testing 35 milk samples from cows with mastitis using duplex RPA and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The optimized duplex RPA assay was completed within 30 minutes at 39°C with balanced primer concentrations, enabling the simultaneous detection of GBS and KP. The assay exhibited high specificity with no cross-reactions. The detection limit was 10^-5 ng/μl, exceeding the sensitivity of PCR (10^-3 ng/μl). Among the clinical samples, duplex RPA identified 14.3% GBS-positive, 8.6% KP-positive, and 8.6% co-infected cases. The overall PCR concordance was 97.1%, with a Kappa coefficient of >0.75.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Duplex RPA enabled the rapid, specific, and sensitive detection of GBS and KP in bovine mastitis, with superior analytical sensitivity compared with PCR.</p>","PeriodicalId":19531,"journal":{"name":"Open Veterinary Journal","volume":"16 5","pages":"3166-3177"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13313798/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148353024","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Enhancing the conception rate in water buffalo using post-AI intravaginal bio-stimulation and clitoral massage.","authors":"Anup Sarker, Dibyendu Biswas, Ashit Kumar Paul","doi":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.53","DOIUrl":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.53","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Suboptimal reproductive performance following artificial insemination (AI) remains a primary constraint to the profitability of buffalo farming in Bangladesh.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of intravaginal bio-stimulation and clitoral massage (CM) in enhancing the post-AI conception rates in buffaloes.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A total of 125 female buffaloes were randomly selected, and their age, parity, breed, body condition score, reproductive health (RH), and calving difficulty were recorded. The buffaloes were divided into five groups (<i>n</i> = 25 in each group): group A (natural mating), group B (AI during observed estrus), group C [AI followed by penis-like device (PLD) application], group D (AI with CM), and group E (AI followed by PLD and CM). Group B (only AI) served as the control for the intervention groups (C, D, and E).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The overall conception rate was 46.4%, with group A having the highest rate (64.0%). The conception rate of group E (52.0%) was higher than that of groups C (44.0%), D (40.0%), and B (32.0%). Parity and previous calving difficulty significantly influenced the conception rates (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Buffaloes aged between 4.6 and 5.5 years were 4.3 times more likely to conceive compared with other age groups (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Correlation coefficient analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between age and parity (<i>p</i> < 0.01) and a significant negative correlation with the RH of cows.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Intravaginal bio-stimulation using a PLD combined with CM post-AI significantly improves the conception rate in buffaloes.</p>","PeriodicalId":19531,"journal":{"name":"Open Veterinary Journal","volume":"16 5","pages":"3121-3129"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13314162/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148353046","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Development of a multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay for the detection of Piroplasma (<i>Babesia</i> spp. and <i>Theileria</i> spp.), <i>Anaplasma</i> spp., and <i>Trypanosoma evansi</i> in cattle.","authors":"Jiravich Methawiroon, Piangjai Chalermwong, Ornarin Boonjint, Piangdow Chiawvitkan, Sakulchit Wichianchot, Chanapath Thabthimsri, Preeyanuch Thongpoo, Ketsarin Kamyingkird, Sathaporn Jittapalapong, Eukote Suwan","doi":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.61","DOIUrl":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.61","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Blood parasites cause serious drawbacks in the livestock industry. The detection methods rely on microscopic examination and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which requires an expert person, labor, time, and cost.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>In this study, a multiplex PCR has been developed for hemoparasites consisting of Piroplasma (<i>Babesia</i> spp. and <i>Theileria</i> spp.), <i>Anaplasma</i> spp., and <i>Trypanosoma evansi</i> detections.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Blood parasite infections in cattle were investigated using three different methods: microscopic examination, single PCR, and multiplex PCR. The <i>Anaplasma</i> 16s rRNA gene, <i>Babesia</i> 18s rRNA gene, <i>Theileria</i> <i>major piroplasm surface protein</i> gene, and <i>Trypanosome</i> <i>ITS1</i> gene have been used to detect <i>Anaplasma</i> spp., <i>Babesia</i> spp., <i>Theileria</i> spp., and <i>T. evansi</i>, respectively, using molecular methods. The sensitivity and specificity of multiplex PCR were evaluated. Multiplex PCR results were compared with microscopic examination and single PCR.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Multiplex PCR assay revealed a limit of detection of 0.01-10 pg of parasite DNA. According to the evaluation of 60 bovine blood samples, blood smear, single PCR, and multiplex PCR revealed 50.0%, 18.3%, and 26.7% of single infections, and 40.0%, 81.7%, and 50.0% of co-infections, respectively. The comparative analysis between multiplex PCR with microscopic examination and single PCR revealed that triple infection, <i>Babesia</i> spp., <i>Theileria</i> spp., and <i>T. evansi</i>, showed 50.0% sensitivity, 100% specificity, and positive predictive value, 98% negative predictive value, and substantial agreement indicated by a Cohen's Kappa value of 0.659.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The multiplex PCR assay developed in this study may be helpful for improved hemoparasite prevention and control when combined with farmer education, proper hygiene practices, and effective environmental management.</p>","PeriodicalId":19531,"journal":{"name":"Open Veterinary Journal","volume":"16 5","pages":"3218-3228"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13314195/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148353064","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Protective effect of <i>Commiphora gileadensis</i> against cadmium toxicity in male rats.","authors":"Abdullah S M Aljohani, Ahmed A Aliiri, Amal S Soliman, Khaled H Musa, Mohamed Alreshoodi, Ibrahim M El-Ashmawy","doi":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.58","DOIUrl":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.58","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Male reproductive organs are highly susceptible to oxidative damage. Cadmium (Cd) is classified as one of the 10 most toxic environmental heavy metals that cause testicular harm. Exposure to Cd alters the reproductive system in males. Free radical generation by Cd by testicular lipid peroxidation. Natural antioxidants may alleviate the hazard effects of Cd. Commiphora gileadensis (CG) sap, wood, bark, leaves, and seeds have notable therapeutic features. CG sap is a candidate to mitigate Cd toxicity.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential of oleo-resin exudate (sap) from <i>Commiphora gileadensis</i> excised bark <i>in vitro</i> and its prevention of reproductive alterations in male rats exposed to Cd chloride exposure.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The antioxidant potentials of CG sap <i>in vitro</i> were estimated based on the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging activity, and 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid free radical scavenging activity. The reducing activities were also performed using copper (cupric reducing antioxidant capacity) and ferric (ferric reducing antioxidant power). Explored how CG sap influences Cd toxicity in the reproductive systems of male rats. Seven groups (six rats each) were created from 42 healthy male adult albino rats. Group 1 (C) received distilled water as a control. Group 2 (Cd): 50 mg Cd chloride/l drinking water (equal to 5 mg/kg/day). Group 3 was administered 100 mg/kg of CG sap. Group 4 was administered 400 mg CG sap/kg. Group 5 was administered 100 mg CG sap/kg plus 50 mg Cd chloride/l. Group 6 was administered 400 mg CG sap/kg b. wt. plus 50 mg Cd chloride/l. Group 7 (V) was administered 1% Tween 80, vehicle (1 ml/rat).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Rats suffering from Cd poisoning exhibited significant decreases in the weights of their testis, epididymis, and sex glands, as well as in sperm count, sperm motility, and overall biochemical antioxidant capacity. Co-administration of CG sap in a dose-dependent manner significantly reduced the size of the testis, epididymis, and sex accessory glands of rats intoxicated with Cd. Furthermore, this treatment reduced the catalase levels and total antioxidant capacity induced by Cd toxicity.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>It can be concluded that CG sap may be utilized as a natural candidate for protection against environmental Cd toxicity.</p>","PeriodicalId":19531,"journal":{"name":"Open Veterinary Journal","volume":"16 5","pages":"3178-3191"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13313939/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148353065","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Comparative effects of raw and commercialized edible bird's nest products on low-density lipoprotein receptor expression and cholesterol regulation in HepG2 cells.","authors":"Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sulaiman, Mohd Akmal Mohd Noor, Amirul Nazhan Ilias, Nurina Titisari, Ahmad Fauzi, Mohd Mokrish Mohd Ajat","doi":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.30","DOIUrl":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.30","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Edible bird's nest (EBN), produced by swiftlets from salivary gland secretions, is a valuable glycoprotein source that offers significant nutritional benefits, particularly influencing consumer health lipid metabolism. Cleaning, bleaching, drying, and enzyme-based techniques can alter the physical quality, nutritional value, and bioactive characteristics of EBN.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aimed to compare the effects of raw and commercialized EBN extracts on cell viability, total cellular cholesterol (TCC), and LDLR gene expression in HepG2 cells.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>HepG2 cells were cultured under controlled laboratory conditions and treated with graded concentrations of EBN extracts. Cell viability was evaluated using MTT assay. Enzymatically, intracellular cholesterol levels were quantified, and LDLR gene expression was measured using reverse transcription quantitative PCR.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Raw EBN maintained higher cell viability and exhibited a nonlinear dose-response pattern, whereas commercialized EBN produced a clear dose-dependent cytotoxic effect. Both raw and commercialized EBN markedly upregulated LDLR gene expression, increasing transcription by approximately 23-fold and 24.5-fold, respectively, compared with untreated controls. Total cellular cholesterol did not differ significantly (<i>p</i> > 0.05), with TCC values of 1.85 ± 0.65, 1.80 ± 0.91, 2.07 ± 0.29, 1.90 ± 0.92, and 3.04 ± 1.04 µmol cholesterol/µmol protein in the BC, NC, PC, raw EBN, and commercialized EBN groups, respectively, although commercialized EBN showed the highest level, representing approximately a 1.6-fold increase relative to BC.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Both raw and commercialized EBN significantly enhance LDLR gene expression in HepG2 cells, indicating their potential to promote cholesterol uptake. However, processing may alter the biochemical composition and biological activity of EBN, contributing to differences in cytotoxicity and cholesterol response. These findings provide molecular insights into the potential of EBN as a functional food for cholesterol regulation and highlight the importance of processing integrity in preserving its bioactive efficacy.</p>","PeriodicalId":19531,"journal":{"name":"Open Veterinary Journal","volume":"16 5","pages":"2883-2891"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13322463/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"149075475","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Determinants of genetic diversity, multidrug resistance, and virulence of <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> isolated from aquaculture fish in Central Iraq.","authors":"Majida Malik Meteab Alshammari, Shahad Ali Kamil, Huda Hassan Gaber, Orooba Meteab Faja, Zahira A Al-Zuhairi, Balsam Miri Mizher Al Muhana","doi":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.19","DOIUrl":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.19","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong><i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> is an opportunistic pathogen with the characteristics of a multidrug-resistant (MDR) antibiotic-resistant and highly virulent pathogen. Its presence in aquaculture systems poses significant threats and concerns for fish health, farm productivity, and potential zoonotic risk.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aimed to assess the distribution of <i>P. aeruginosa</i> virulence genes, their antibiotic resistance profiles, and the genetic relationships of isolates from fish collected from major aquaculture systems in Central Iraq.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A total of 158 fish were collected from six aquaculture sites in Central Iraq (three lake farms and three floating cage systems). Isolation was performed on cetrimide agar, and the species was identified through <i>16S rRNA</i> amplification and sequencing. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested using the disk diffusion technique for 13 antimicrobial agents in accordance with Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) standards. The presence of nine virulence genes and five major antibiotic resistance genes was determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). To investigate clonal similarities/relations and geographic cladding, RAPD-PCR was performed.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Subsequently, 62 samples were examined and confirmed to be <i>P. aeruginosa</i> using <i>16S rRNA</i> PCR and sequencing. Isolate phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed 100% resistance to tetracycline and Cefuroxime / Cefuroxime sodium. Additionally, 92% of the samples were affected by MDR. Gene studies revealed that 41.9% of isolates contained all nine tested virulence factors. There were also distinct genetic groups in the RAPD-PCR analysis, possibly due to farming location. <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i> was confirmed in 39.24% (62/158) of the samples. All isolates showed multiple antibiotic resistance indices of >0.2. The most frequently identified favorable attributes (virulence) of the pathogens were: <i>fliC</i> (74.19%), <i>phz</i> (70.96%), <i>rhlI</i> (61.29%), and <i>pvd</i> (56.45%). The formation of nine virulence patterns was recorded, with Pattern V1 (containing all genes) being the most prevalent (21%). The resistance genes <i>aac(6')-Ib</i>, <i>tetA</i>, and <i>blaTEM</i>were found in 91.93%, 83.87%, and 82.25% of the isolates, respectively. RAPD-PCR revealed six geographically distinct clades that corresponded to particular fish farms, suggesting local clonal circulation and little intra-farm exchange.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The results of the investigations confirm that <i>P. aeruginosa</i> inhabiting and genetically diverse populations in Iraqi aquaculture carry MDR and significantly virulent genotypes.</p>","PeriodicalId":19531,"journal":{"name":"Open Veterinary Journal","volume":"16 5","pages":"2766-2780"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13313888/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148353042","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Rare stability in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease: Clinical observations of loop diuretic withdrawal after congestive heart failure.","authors":"Tung Hsueh, I-Ping Chan, Chung-Chun Yang, Shiun-Long Lin","doi":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.64","DOIUrl":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.64","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is a common cause of congestive heart failure (CHF) in small-breed dogs. Clinical observations suggest that discontinuation of loop diuretics may be feasible in a subset of dogs with MMVD and CHF.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>To characterize dogs with MMVD-related CHF that achieved stability following loop diuretic withdrawal and to investigate potential contributing factors.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We retrospectively analyzed 3,055 canine medical records of dogs diagnosed with MMVD (2012-2022) from the National Chung Hsing University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital database. Dogs considered stable and not requiring diuretic administration for at least 1 year after CHF diagnosis were included.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Six dogs (5 Maltese and 1 Toy Poodle) with a median age of 8.5 years and a median weight of 3.18 kg met the inclusion criteria. These dogs achieved stability after a median treatment duration of 675 days (range: 77-917 days) and were followed up for a period of 386-1,572 days. The presence of azotemia, radiographic evidence of reduced heart size, and evidence of long-term clinical stability supported diuretic tapering. All cardiac medications were discontinued in three dogs, while the remaining three continued pimobendan-based therapy.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>CHF secondary to MMVD in dogs can stabilize in rare instances without lifelong diuretic administration. These observations suggest that reversible or transient factors may contribute to the initial presentation of CHF in selected cases. Regular cardiac and renal assessments may help in identifying suitable candidates for diuretic adjustment when concurrent systemic conditions, such as azotemia, pose a limiting side effect despite sustained clinical stability or in rare instances of prolonged clinical stability without CHF signs. This approach facilitates individualized CHF management and improves the quality of life of both pets and their owners.</p>","PeriodicalId":19531,"journal":{"name":"Open Veterinary Journal","volume":"16 5","pages":"3247-3254"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13313972/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148352980","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Stage-specific gene expression profiling of <i>Toxocara canis</i> in canine and human hosts: Implications for the pathogenesis and transmission of zoonotic diseases.","authors":"Amal Hassan Abd Al Shabbani, Saafa Ressan Abdullah Al-Kaeebi, Miras Hasan Madhloom, Monyer Abdulamier Abd Alfatlawi","doi":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.40","DOIUrl":"10.5455/OVJ.2026.v16.i5.40","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong><i>Toxocara canis</i> is a zoonotic nematode that mainly infects dogs but can produce visceral, ocular, and neurological toxocariasis in humans. The parasite completes its life cycle within dogs. The molecular processes that enable <i>T. canis</i> to adapt to its host remain largely unknown despite the significance of the parasite to public health.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>To understand the molecular basis of immune evasion, tissue migration, and survival strategies, researchers analyzed <i>T. canis</i> gene expression during different life stages within canine and human hosts.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Third-stage larvae (L3) and adult worms were collected from infected tissues at intervals of 7, 14, 28, and 35 days post-infection using both experimentally infected dogs (definitive hosts) and murine models (human equivalent accidental hosts). RNA was extracted, and quantitative real-time PCR was performed to measure the expression of three key virulence genes: <i>Toxocara</i> excretory-secretory protein 1 (TcES-1), <i>Toxocara</i> cysteine protease-like gene (TcCPL-1), and <i>Toxocara</i> heat shock protein 90 (TcHSP-90) were examined for their roles in worm virulence.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Human-model larvae showed significantly higher levels of TcES-1 and TcCPL-1 expression than canine larvae, indicating stronger immune modulation and tissue invasion abilities in incidental hosts with statistical significance (<i>p</i> < 0.001). Human-model larvae displayed significantly higher levels of TcHSP-90 expression than both dog-derived larvae and adult worms, indicating stress-response adaptation in non-permissive hosts.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The findings of this study reveal how <i>T. canis</i> adapts to different hosts at the molecular level and identify new opportunities for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to manage zoonotic toxocariasis.</p>","PeriodicalId":19531,"journal":{"name":"Open Veterinary Journal","volume":"16 5","pages":"2970-2978"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13314113/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148352988","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}