Veterinary Medicine and Science最新文献

{"title":"Betaine Promotes Milk Protein Synthesis via Alleviating Oxidative Stress Caused by NEFA in Mammary Epithelial Cells of Dairy Cows.","authors":"Wenyan Yan, Xinyuan Sun, Huanjie Shi, Zhenwang Li, Wenhui Li, Xiaoxiao Gao, Jihong Dong","doi":"10.1002/vms3.71065","DOIUrl":"10.1002/vms3.71065","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Fatty liver is highly prevalent in dairy cows and poses a significant challenge to the dairy industry by reducing both milk yield and quality, thereby inflicting substantial economic losses. Although dietary betaine supplementation has been demonstrated to enhance milk protein content, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This study aimed to elucidate the role of betaine in milk protein synthesis and the underlying mechanisms.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Blood, liver and mammary gland samples were obtained from healthy and fatty liver-affected bovines. The serum NEFA levels, oxidation and antioxidant enzyme systems and milk protein synthesis-related proteins expression were determined. In vitro, the bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) were pretreated with 25 mM betaine/10 mM N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) and then stimulated with NEFA.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The results indicated an elevation in serum NEFA levels accompanied by enhanced oxidative stress (OS) and reduced protein levels related to milk protein synthesis (phosphorylated (p)-mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR)/mTOR, p-ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (S6K1)/S6K1, p-Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/JAK2, p-signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5)/STAT5 and β-casein) in dairy cows with fatty liver. In vitro, the results revealed betaine decreased the hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), malondialdehyde (MDA), and oxygen free radicals (OFR) contents, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity in the supernatant, but increased the glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) activities; the reduced glutathione-to-oxidised glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio; and the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC); and elevated protein levels related to milk protein synthesis in NEFA-treated BMECs.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>These findings indicate that betaine reduces NEFA-induced OS and enhances milk protein synthesis, suggesting its potential as a nutritional intervention for enhancing milk protein content in dairy cows with metabolic disorders.</p>","PeriodicalId":23543,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Medicine and Science","volume":"12 4","pages":"e71065"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13310464/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148340359","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"3D CT Anatomy and Morphology of the Appendicular Skeleton of European Pond Turtle (Emys orbicularis).","authors":"Omid Zehtabvar, Ali Reza Vajhi, Somaye Davudypoor, Roshanak Mokhtari, Kiana Farahani, Seyyed Hossein Modarres Tonekabony","doi":"10.1002/vms3.71019","DOIUrl":"10.1002/vms3.71019","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Turtles have special anatomical features due to their shell and the enclosure of their internal organs. One of the important differences between the anatomy of this group of reptiles and others is the skeletal structure. The European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) is a species within the Emylidae family, inhabiting regions spanning Europe, Africa and Asia.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>This study has been designed to assess the anatomical features of the appendicular skeletal system in this species and draw comparisons with other turtle species.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Computed tomography (CT) Scan Machine and Micro CT Scan Machine were used for this study. Gross anatomical studies were performed on prepared bones using the method of using insects.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The carpal region consists of 10 bones (5 proximal and 5 distal), whereas the tarsal region features a fused Astragalus and four distal bones, both following a 2.3.3.3.2 phalangeal formula. Significant sexual dimorphism is limited to the pelvic girdle, where males exhibit a more prominent pubic ridge and an ossified symphysis compared to the predominantly cartilaginous structure in females.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The European pond turtle displays distinct anatomical characteristics compared to other turtle species, particularly aquatic ones. Notably, this turtle exhibits nails on all its manus digits, which are elongated and non-fin-like. In conclusion, the use of diagnostic imaging techniques, such as CT scans and micro-CT scans, in the study of turtle skeletons has proven to be highly beneficial. These techniques enable researchers to accurately determine the direction and position of bones, even in species with complex anatomical features like turtles.</p>","PeriodicalId":23543,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Medicine and Science","volume":"12 4","pages":"e71019"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13347142/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148413038","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Reference Intervals for Schirmer Tear Test and Intraocular Pressure in Healthy Hamdani Crossbred Sheep.","authors":"Kadir Sulu, Mustafa Baris Akgul, Ali Gulaydin, Maruf Yilmaz, Bahar Erden, Ali Osman Turgut","doi":"10.1002/vms3.71018","DOIUrl":"10.1002/vms3.71018","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Breed-specific reference intervals for the Schirmer tear test (STT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) in Hamdani crossbred sheep have not been established.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>To determine reference intervals for STT and IOP in healthy Hamdani crossbred sheep.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A total of 200 clinically healthy animals were stratified into four age groups: < 6 months, 6 months to 1 year, 1-2 years, and > 2 years. Each group comprised equal numbers of males (n = 25) and females (n = 25). Tear production was evaluated using STT-1, and IOP was measured with a rebound tonometer. Group-based mean values were calculated using representative values obtained by averaging measurements from both eyes.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Mean values and reference intervals for STT and IOP were established for each age group. No sex-related differences were observed in STT values. However, age-related differences were observed only in females, with higher STT values in hoggets than lambs (p < 0.01). For IOP, ewes had higher values than rams (p < 0.01). Age-related differences in IOP were observed only in males, with rams showing lower IOP values than suckling lambs and hoggets (p < 0.01).</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This study establishes reference intervals for STT and IOP in healthy Hamdani crossbred sheep and provides clinically relevant baseline data for ophthalmic assessment.</p>","PeriodicalId":23543,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Medicine and Science","volume":"12 4","pages":"e71018"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13584875/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148158304","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Natural Mineral Water (Hora) Supplementation Improves Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Sheep in Ethiopia.","authors":"Ashenafi Miresa Kenea, Taye Tolemariam, Belay Duguma, Ellen S Dierenfeld, Abebe Nigussie, Feyissa Begna, Sisay Bekele","doi":"10.1002/vms3.71008","DOIUrl":"10.1002/vms3.71008","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Natural mineral water (hora) is a mineral source widely available in Ethiopia. However, its specific impacts on sheep growth performance and carcass characteristics remain understudied.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>To evaluate the effect of hora supplementation on nutrient intake, growth performance and carcass characteristics of sheep.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Twenty Horro breed sheep with an initial body weight (IBW) of 17.27 ± 0.71 kg were assigned to five treatment groups in a randomized complete block design (RCBD), blocked on the basis of their IBW. The treatments included control group (CON) fed basal diet only, and four treatment groups (H-200, H-300, H-400, and H-500) receiving 200, 300, 400, and 500 mL, of hora per day respectively. All sheep were fed grass hay and water ad libitum. Throughout the feeding trial data on dry matter (DM) and nutrient intake, body weight changes and various carcass traits were measured.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Hora supplementation significantly improved (p < 0.001) daily DM and nutrient intake. The H-400 group exhibited the highest intake, with total DM intake reaching 0.99 kg/day (p < 0.001), whereas CON and H-300 showed the lowest. Final body weight, live weight gain, average daily gain, and feed conversion efficiency were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the H-400 group. Polynomial contrasts revealed significant quadratic patterns (p < 0.05) for most intake and growth performance parameters. A significant linear trend (p < 0.001) was observed for empty body weight, hot carcass weight, and rib-eye area. Dressing and saleable percentages remained unaffected by hora supplementation (p > 0.05). Total edible offal components showed a significant quadratic pattern (p = 0.001), whereas total non-edible offal showed a significant linear trend (p = 0.002).</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Supplementation with 400 mL/day of hora is the optimal dose for significantly improving sheep growth performance, nutrient intake, and carcass characteristics. Overall, although hora provides clear benefits, its effects are dose-dependent, with potential diminishing returns beyond the 400 mL/day level.</p>","PeriodicalId":23543,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Medicine and Science","volume":"12 4","pages":"e71008"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13240198/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148043942","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Assessing Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding Brucellosis Among High-Risk Occupational Groups.","authors":"Md Abdur Nur Sakib, Tajul Islam Mamun, Sumayae Binta Khaiat, Prity Ranjan Talukdar, Mahfuzur Rahman, Raisa Islam, Shabbir Ahmed, Fahmida Yesmin Oishee, Milton Roy, Md Mukter Hossain","doi":"10.1002/vms3.71038","DOIUrl":"10.1002/vms3.71038","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Brucellosis is a neglected but significant zoonotic disease that poses serious public health and economic challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) related to brucellosis among high-risk occupational groups in Bangladesh, including dairy workers, livestock handlers and butchers.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional study was conducted through face-to-face interviews using a structured, closed-ended questionnaire. A total of 435 participants from five districts were randomly selected. The questionnaire covered socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of brucellosis, attitudes towards the disease and preventive practices. Descriptive statistics, univariable and multivariable logistic regression and correlation analyses were performed.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Overall, 186 (43%) of participants demonstrated good knowledge about brucellosis. The majority of respondents (96%) exhibited a positive attitude towards the disease, and 59% reported correct practices at their workplaces. Notably, 52.9% of participants were aware of brucellosis transmission routes, and 90.6% reported proper disposal of aborted animal materials. Dairy workers were significantly more knowledgeable (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.00; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11-3.63; p = 0.021) and demonstrated better practices (AOR = 4.69, CI: 2.30-9.88, p < 0.001) compared to butchers. Participants who had received training were significantly more likely to have good knowledge (AOR: 2.01; 95% CI: 1.12-3.61; p = 0.019) and to practice correct behaviours (AOR: 4.42; 95% CI: 2.11-8.83; p < 0.001) than those without training. A statistically significant, very weak positive correlation was observed between knowledge and practice scores.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This study highlights considerable gaps in knowledge and preventive practices among high-risk occupational groups in Bangladesh. Targeted educational interventions and comprehensive control programmes are urgently needed, especially for livestock handlers, butchers and individuals with lower educational levels, to reduce the risk of animal-to-human transmission and control the spread of brucellosis in the country.</p>","PeriodicalId":23543,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Medicine and Science","volume":"12 4","pages":"e71038"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13270421/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148259760","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The Combination of Nigella sativa Oil-Based Nanoemulsion and Quercetin Alleviates Oxidative Stress From Exogenous Testosterone Through Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms in Rats.","authors":"Majid Najafi, Negar Panahi, Saeed Hesaraki, Ghasem Akbari","doi":"10.1002/vms3.70984","DOIUrl":"10.1002/vms3.70984","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Exogenous testosterone therapy induces testicular oxidative stress and inflammation, suppressing spermatogenesis. Chronic restraint and high-intensity exercise stress exacerbate reproductive dysfunction. Quercetin (Qu) and black seed oil (BSO) possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This study evaluates the efficacy of Qu-loaded BSO (Qu-BSO) nanoemulsion in mitigating testosterone-induced testicular damage in rats subjected to exercise and restraint stress, as well as to testosterone and finasteride administration.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A Qu-BSO nanoemulsion was prepared and characterized. Thirty-six male Wistar rats were divided into six groups (n = 6): control (C), testosterone (T) at 20 mg/kg weekly via subcutaneous injection, testosterone + finasteride (TF) at 1 mg/kg 5 days a week, testosterone + high-intensity treadmill exercise (TE) for 50 min daily, testosterone + chronic restraint stress (TI) for 3 h daily and testosterone + Qu-BSO (TQBSNE) for 6 weeks. Serum testosterone, LH, testicular antioxidants (SOD, CAT and GPx), lipid peroxidation (MDA), inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β mRNA), and histopathology were assessed.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The T, TF and TI groups exhibited significant testicular damage with elevated oxidative stress and inflammation. The T and TF groups exhibited the highest serum testosterone. TE showed partial protection. The TQBSNE treatment group provided superior protection, with significantly higher SOD, CAT and GPx activities, the lowest MDA levels and reduced TNF-α and IL-1β expression. TQBSNE also partially restored LH levels.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The high-intensity exercise group showed a partial protective effect. Chronic restraint stress exacerbated testicular damage caused by testosterone. Qu-BSO nanoemulsion effectively counteracted testosterone-induced testicular damage through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, representing a promising therapeutic strategy.</p>","PeriodicalId":23543,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Medicine and Science","volume":"12 4","pages":"e70984"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13376346/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148473066","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Spatial Distribution and Host-Specific Patterns of Avian Haemosporidian Infections in a Semi-Arid Region of Northeastern Iran.","authors":"Seyed-Reza Mirbadie, Rasoul Alimi, Eissa Soleymani, Naghmeh Dastan, Abdolmajid Gholizadeh, Amir-Hossein Maghsood, Mohammad-Ali Mohaghegh","doi":"10.1002/vms3.71047","DOIUrl":"10.1002/vms3.71047","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Avian haemosporidians (Haemoproteus, Plasmodium, and Leucocytozoon) and erythrocytic bacteria (e.g., Aegyptianella) are globally widespread, yet their epidemiology in Iran's semi-arid ecosystems remains understudied.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>This study provides the first survey of avian blood parasites in Semnan Province, Iran, integrating microscopic and spatial analyses to identify host and environmental factors influencing infection patterns.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>From September 2022 to December 2023, 263 healthy birds from ten species were examined. Giemsa-stained blood smears were screened microscopically. Infection hotspots and risk factors were identified using Kruskal-Wallis tests, logistic regression, and spatial mapping.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Overall infection prevalence was 22.1% and was dominated by Haemoproteus spp. (18.6%), followed by Plasmodium spp. (1.5%), Leucocytozoon spp. (1.1%), and Aegyptianella spp. (0.8%). Pigeons exhibited the highest infection rate and were nearly three times more likely to be infected than other species (OR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.38-5.60, p = 0.004). Spatial analysis revealed infection clustering in Shahroud County, which exhibits relatively higher humidity and vegetation cover compared with other parts of the predominantly semi‑arid Semnan Province. These findings highlight the potential influence of local climatic and ecological factors on the distribution of avian haemosporidian parasites. Although infection appeared slightly higher during spring and summer (9.6% and 7.3%, respectively) compared with autumn (3.4%) and winter (1.9%), the observed differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05).</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This baseline study provides important epidemiological data and establishes a framework for future molecular and vector‑based investigations of avian blood parasites in the Middle East.</p>","PeriodicalId":23543,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Medicine and Science","volume":"12 4","pages":"e71047"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13288164/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148303315","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Age- and Sex-Dependent Dynamics in Pituitary Thyrotroph and Thyroid Hormones in Dromedary Camels (Camelus dromedarius): A Histochemical Approach.","authors":"Shaukat Ali Shaukat Jaspal, Muhammad Mubashar Shaukat, Robina Shaukat, Tahmina Shaukat, Rifat Ullah Khan, Shabana Naz, Antonella Perillo, Naseer Khan Momand, Ibrahim A Alhidary","doi":"10.1002/vms3.71007","DOIUrl":"10.1002/vms3.71007","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and reproduction, yet its age- and sex-related dynamics in dromedary camels remain poorly understood.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>This study aimed to investigate age- and sex-dependent variations in pituitary thyrotroph morphometry and thyroid hormone profiles in dromedary camels.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A total of 90 clinically healthy Brela breed camels of both sexes (aged 2 to ≥11 years) were grouped based on age and physiological status (lactating and non-lactating). Pituitary tissues (n = 60) were subjected to immunohistochemical analysis for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)-producing thyrotrophs. Morphometric parameters, including cell count, size, and nuclear dimensions, were measured. Plasma concentrations of TSH, triiodothyronine (T₃), and thyroxine (T₄) were determined using ELISA.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Thyrotroph cell counts did not differ significantly among groups. However, older camels (≥11 years) showed significantly increased cell and nuclear dimensions (p < 0.05). Plasma TSH levels decreased with age, with peak levels observed in females aged 5-10 years. T₃ concentrations varied significantly with age and sex, with higher levels in younger males. T₄ levels declined with age but were not significantly influenced by sex (p > 0.05).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Thyrotroph morphology and thyroid hormone dynamics in dromedary camels are significantly influenced by age and sex, indicating adaptive modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis in response to metabolic and reproductive demands.</p>","PeriodicalId":23543,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Medicine and Science","volume":"12 4","pages":"e71007"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13239639/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148057092","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Ruminants Epidemiology, Spatial Clustering and Multivariate Risk Modelling of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in District Bajaur, Pakistan.","authors":"Murad Ali Khan, Jawad Ali, Zohaib Ali, Abdur Rehman, Muhammad Shoib, Sadaf Fayaz, Rifat Ullah Khan, Shabana Naz, Naseer Khan Momand, Antonella Perillo, Ibrahim A Alhidary","doi":"10.1002/vms3.71006","DOIUrl":"10.1002/vms3.71006","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background and objective: </strong>Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) remains a significant public health concern in endemic regions of Pakistan, particularly in ecologically diverse and resource-limited areas. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology, risk factors, lesion characteristics, seasonal trends and spatial distribution of CL in District Bajaur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in 2022, including clinically suspected and laboratory-confirmed CL cases from all nine tehsils of District Bajaur. Demographic information, lesion characteristics (site, type and number), season of presentation and regional distribution were collected using a structured questionnaire. Statistical analyses included univariate and multivariate logistic regression, multinomial regression, Poisson regression, stratified analyses and interaction modelling. Spatial clustering was evaluated using Z-scores, Moran's I statistics and GIS-based risk mapping.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>CL prevalence was significantly higher among males, younger individuals, unmarried participants and during the summer season. Lesions were predominantly located on exposed body parts, especially the hands and face, with dry lesions and single-lesion presentations being most common. Multivariate analysis identified male gender, younger age, unmarried status, summer season, dry lesion type and single lesions as independent risk factors. Stratified and interaction analyses indicated an elevated risk among young males during the summer. Spatial analysis revealed significant clustering of cases, with Khar, Loe Mamund and Salarzai identified as high-risk tehsils. A clinician-friendly risk scoring system was developed to estimate individual infection probability.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>CL in District Bajaur is influenced by a complex interaction of demographic, clinical, seasonal and spatial factors. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted surveillance, vector control strategies and risk-based interventions to reduce disease burden in endemic regions.</p>","PeriodicalId":23543,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Medicine and Science","volume":"12 4","pages":"e71006"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13239920/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148044051","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Evaluation of Haemato-Biochemical and Physiological Parameters of Different Dairy Breeds During the Dry and Wet Seasons in Central Ethiopia.","authors":"Teshome Gemechu, Mitiku Eshetu, Yesihak Yusuf Mummed, Ulfina Galmessa, Aemiro Kehaliew","doi":"10.1002/vms3.71079","DOIUrl":"10.1002/vms3.71079","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Haemato-biochemical values are vital for assessing an animal's normal physiological condition. However, few studies have been conducted on various dairy cow breeds across different seasons in Ethiopia.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>To evaluate the haemato-biochemical and physiological parameters in different breeds of dairy cows during the dry and wet seasons in central Ethiopia.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A total of 90 dairy cows of different breeds and lactation stages were included in this study. Blood samples (∼10-15 mL) were collected aseptically from the jugular vein into EDTA tubes for haemato-biochemical analysis, while plasma and serum were separated by collecting blood in heparin and non-anticoagulant vials, respectively. Data on various parameters were statistically analysed using a two-way analysis of variance.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The findings indicated that the Borana breed had lower average values for physiological parameters such as rectal temperature, heart rate and respiration rate than cross-breeds and Jersey breeds. The dry season showed higher averages for all physiological indicators than the wet season. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in physiological parameters were observed between seasons within the same lactation stages across three breeds under similar management practices. Levels of packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hgb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), red blood cell count (RBC) and white blood cell count (WBC) were measured. Compared to the dry season, most haematological parameters were significantly lower during the wet season, except for MCV. During both seasons, cross-breeds and Jersey breeds exhibited higher levels of PCV, MCV, MCH and WBC than the Borana breed. PCV, MCV, MCH and RBC levels declined from early to late lactation in all breeds during both dry and wet seasons. Conversely, Hgb, MCHC and WBC levels increased from early to late lactation. The mean values for creatinine, urea and globulin were notably higher in the dry season than in the wet season. In contrast, total protein, glucose, cholesterol and albumin levels were significantly lower during the dry season. In addition, glucose and cholesterol levels increased from early to late lactation in all breeds under both conditions, while total protein, creatinine, urea and globulin levels decreased during this period.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Finally, the mean values of all haemato-biochemical and physiological parameters fell within the reference ranges for healthy dairy cows, suggesting that these three breeds are well adapted to the climatic conditions of central Ethiopia.</p>","PeriodicalId":23543,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary Medicine and Science","volume":"12 4","pages":"e71079"},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2026-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13353078/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148424707","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}