Veterinary WorldPub Date : 2026-07-31Epub Date: 2026-07-06DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2026.2751-2762
Sara M Rashad
{"title":"Plasma calcium, phosphorus, and calcium-to-phosphorus ratio as indicators of eggshell quality and reproductive performance in captive female Houbara bustards (<em>Chlamydotis undulata</em>).","authors":"Sara M Rashad","doi":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.2751-2762","DOIUrl":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.2751-2762","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background and aim: </strong>The Houbara bustard (<i>Chlamydotis</i> <i>undulata</i>) is a vulnerable avian species whose conservation relies heavily on successful captive breeding. Eggshell abnormalities and egg retention are major reproductive constraints that can reduce breeding efficiency. Calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) play critical roles in eggshell formation and reproductive physiology; however, their relationship with reproductive performance in Houbara bustards has not been investigated. This study aimed to establish the first reproductive performance-based reference intervals for plasma Ca and P in captive female Houbara bustards, evaluate the calcium-to-phosphorus (Ca:P) ratio, and determine their associations with reproductive outcomes and eggshell abnormalities.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>A cross-sectional study was conducted on 239 adult female Houbara bustards aged 2-5 years. Blood samples were collected from 136 females during the breeding season and 103 females outside the breeding season. During the breeding season, birds were categorized as good layers (n = 70), soft-shelled egg producers (n = 26), retained egg (stuck egg) cases (n = 19), and non-laying females (n = 21). Plasma Ca and P concentrations were measured using an automated biochemistry analyzer, and the Ca:P ratio was calculated. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Kruskal-Wallis test, Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner post hoc comparisons, and Spearman correlation analysis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Outside the breeding season, mean plasma Ca and P concentrations were 10.5 ± 0.69 mg/dL and 3.98 ± 0.94 mg/dL, respectively, with a mean Ca:P ratio of 2.78 ± 0.58. In good layers, reproductive season reference intervals were established as 10.8-27.8 mg/dL for Ca, 2.6-6.58 mg/dL for P, and 2.48-5.91 for the Ca:P ratio. Significant differences among reproductive groups were observed for Ca (χ² = 16.27, p < 0.001) and P (χ² = 11.12, p = 0.011), whereas the Ca:P ratio did not differ significantly (p = 0.657). Soft-shelled egg producers and retained egg cases exhibited significantly higher Ca concentrations than good layers, while P concentrations were significantly elevated in soft-shelled egg producers. Plasma Ca and P concentrations showed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.690, p < 0.001). Elevated Ca was also associated with soft-shelled eggs (r = 0.320, p = 0.001) and retained eggs (r = 0.240, p = 0.024).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study establishes the first reference intervals for plasma Ca and P based on reproductive performance in captive female Houbara bustards. Eggshell defects and egg retention were linked to altered mineral mobilization and utilization rather than Ca deficiency. Routine biochemical monitoring of Ca and P may serve as valuable biomarkers for reproductive assessment and improve breeding success in conservation programs for this vulnerable species.</p>","PeriodicalId":23587,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary World","volume":"19 7","pages":"2751-2762"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13500129/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148808906","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}
Veterinary WorldPub Date : 2026-07-31Epub Date: 2026-07-17DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2026.3039-3080
Andreas Berny Yulianto, Aswin Rafif Khairullah, Widya Paramita Lokapirnasari, Mohammad Anam Al-Arif, Zulfi Nur Amrina Rosyada, Emy Koestanti Sabdoningrum, Bodhi Agustono, Mirni Lamid, Kartika Purnamasari, Bima Putra Pratama, Riza Zainuddin Ahmad, Wasito Wasito, Saifur Rehman, Muhammad Aviv Firdaus
{"title":"Mechanistic insights into probiotic modulation of the gut-immune axis and their role as sustainable antibiotic alternatives in poultry production: An integrative review.","authors":"Andreas Berny Yulianto, Aswin Rafif Khairullah, Widya Paramita Lokapirnasari, Mohammad Anam Al-Arif, Zulfi Nur Amrina Rosyada, Emy Koestanti Sabdoningrum, Bodhi Agustono, Mirni Lamid, Kartika Purnamasari, Bima Putra Pratama, Riza Zainuddin Ahmad, Wasito Wasito, Saifur Rehman, Muhammad Aviv Firdaus","doi":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.3039-3080","DOIUrl":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.3039-3080","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":23587,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary World","volume":"19 7","pages":"3039-3080"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13500145/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148808526","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":"Occurrence of multidrug-resistant bacteria and clinically important β-lactamase resistance genes in giant freshwater prawn (<em>Macrobrachium rosenbergii</em>) aquaculture ponds in Thailand.","authors":"Keeravit Petjul, Prasit Khunsanit, Tanaphoom Boonmee, Anupong Tankrathok, Urai Koollboon, Nattapon Kan-A-Roon","doi":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.2722-2733","DOIUrl":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.2722-2733","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background and aim: </strong>The rapid expansion of giant freshwater prawn (<i>Macrobrachium</i> <i>rosenbergii</i>) aquaculture has raised concerns regarding the emergence and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in aquatic ecosystems. However, information regarding antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes in freshwater prawn earthen pond systems in Northeastern Thailand remains limited. This study aimed to isolate and characterize antibiotic-resistant bacteria from giant freshwater prawn aquaculture ponds in Kalasin Province, Thailand, and to determine the occurrence of clinically important β-lactamase resistance genes.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>Water samples were collected quarterly from nine earthen ponds located in three districts of Kalasin Province, Thailand, between July 2024 and June 2025. Bacterial isolates were recovered using ampicillin-supplemented selective media and identified through <i>16S rRNA</i> gene sequencing. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated using agar disk diffusion according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Polymerase chain reaction assays were performed to detect β-lactamase genes, including <i>blaTEM</i>, <i>blaSHV</i>, <i>blaOXA</i>, <i>blaKPC-2</i>, <i>blaNDM-1</i>, and <i>blaIMP</i>.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Twenty antibiotic-resistant isolates representing eight bacterial species belonging to five genera were identified. <i>Aeromonas</i> <i>veronii</i> was the predominant species, accounting for six isolates. Fourteen isolates (70.0%; 95% confidence interval: 45.7-88.1%) exhibited multidrug resistance to at least three antimicrobial classes. Resistance was particularly common against ampicillin, vancomycin, and rifampicin. Molecular analysis revealed the presence of clinically important β-lactamase genes, mainly <i>blaSHV</i> and <i>blaKPC-2</i>. Several isolates carried these genes, and <i>A.</i> <i>veronii</i> isolate MSS1 co-harbored <i>blaSHV</i> and <i>blaKPC-2</i>, indicating the possible clustering of resistance determinants. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first report of <i>blaKPC-2</i>-positive bacteria isolated from <i>M.</i> <i>rosenbergii</i> aquaculture ponds in Thailand.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The detection of multidrug-resistant bacteria and clinically relevant β-lactamase genes highlights the role of freshwater prawn aquaculture systems as environmental reservoirs of AMR. These findings provide baseline information for AMR surveillance in Thailand and emphasize the need for improved antimicrobial stewardship, enhanced biosecurity measures, and sustainable disease management strategies within a One Health framework. Further investigations employing metagenomics and whole-genome sequencing are warranted to elucidate resistance dissemination mechanisms.</p>","PeriodicalId":23587,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary World","volume":"19 7","pages":"2722-2733"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13500122/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148808971","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}
Veterinary WorldPub Date : 2026-07-31Epub Date: 2026-07-20DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2026.3138-3155
Fatimazohra Abdulrashidkhan Pathan, Arunkumar C Patel, Niyati M Rana, Sejal P Antiya, Prakash G Koringa, Rafiyuddin A Mathakiya, Vipul R Nimavat, Ankit S Prajapati
{"title":"Molecular detection, characterization, and cross-species circulation of feline and canine parvoviruses in Gujarat, India: Emergence of a novel canine parvovirus-2c variant and enhanced diagnostic sensitivity of quantitative polymerase chain reaction.","authors":"Fatimazohra Abdulrashidkhan Pathan, Arunkumar C Patel, Niyati M Rana, Sejal P Antiya, Prakash G Koringa, Rafiyuddin A Mathakiya, Vipul R Nimavat, Ankit S Prajapati","doi":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.3138-3155","DOIUrl":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.3138-3155","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background and aim: </strong>Feline parvovirus (FPV) and canine parvovirus (CPV) are highly contagious pathogens that cause severe enteritis in companion animals, leading to considerable morbidity and mortality, particularly in young and unvaccinated animals. The continuous evolution of CPV variants and increasing evidence of cross-species transmission present major challenges for disease diagnosis, surveillance, and control. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of FPV and CPV infections among cats and dogs in Gujarat, India, compare the diagnostic performance of rapid antigen testing (RAT), conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and quantitative PCR (qPCR), characterize circulating viral variants through <i>VP2</i> gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, and investigate evidence of cross-species circulation.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>A cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2024 and September 2025 using 200 fecal samples collected from 100 cats and 100 dogs presented to veterinary clinics, shelters, and rescue organizations in Gujarat, India. Samples were examined using RAT, conventional PCR targeting the <i>VP2</i> gene, and duplex probe-based qPCR to differentially detect FPV and CPV. Representative positive samples were subjected to <i>VP2</i> gene sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, and virus isolation in Crandell-Rees feline kidney cell cultures to evaluate viral replication. Epidemiological characteristics, including species, age, breed, vaccination status, and clinical presentation, were also assessed.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>RAT detected FPV and CPV in 10 (5.0%) and 80 (40.0%) samples, respectively, whereas conventional PCR identified 39 (19.5%) parvovirus-positive samples. Duplex qPCR demonstrated markedly superior sensitivity, detecting 124 (62.0%) positive samples, comprising 27 FPV and 97 CPV infections. Cross-species circulation was demonstrated by detection of CPV in 12% of cats and FPV in 1% of dogs. Sequencing of the <i>VP2</i> gene revealed genetically conserved FPV isolates and predominance of CPV-2c among canine isolates, including a novel CPV-2c variant carrying unique amino acid substitutions suggestive of ongoing viral evolution. Virus isolation successfully confirmed replication in four of nine inoculated samples, producing characteristic cytopathic effects in Crandell-Rees feline kidney cells.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>FPV and CPV co-circulate among companion animals in Gujarat, with molecular evidence of cross-species transmission and predominance of CPV-2c variants. Duplex qPCR substantially outperformed RAT and conventional PCR, supporting its routine application for accurate diagnosis, epidemiological surveillance, and early detection of emerging parvovirus variants. Continuous molecular surveillance combined with sustained vaccination programs is essential to limit viral dissemination and improve control of parvoviral infections.</p>","PeriodicalId":23587,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary World","volume":"19 7","pages":"3138-3155"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13500128/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148809004","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":"Dietary curcumin encapsulated in nanostructured lipid carriers improves growth performance, feed utilization efficiency, and resistance to <em>Streptococcus agalactiae</em> in Nile tilapia (<em>Oreochromis niloticus</em>).","authors":"Warut Kengkittipat, Manoj Tukaram Kamble, Sirikorn Kitiyodom, Jakarwan Yostawonkul, Gotchagorn Sawatphakdee, Kim D Thompson, Seema Vijay Medhe, Saharuetai Jeamsripong, Nopadon Pirarat","doi":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.3156-3175","DOIUrl":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.3156-3175","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background and aim: </strong>Streptococcosis caused by <i>Streptococcus agalactiae</i> represents a major constraint to Nile tilapia (<i>Oreochromis niloticus</i>) aquaculture, resulting in substantial economic losses. Curcumin (CUR) possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties, but its practical application is limited by poor aqueous solubility and low bioavailability. This study aimed to develop CUR encapsulated in nanostructured lipid carriers (CUR-NLCs) and evaluate their effects on growth performance, feed utilization efficiency, and resistance against <i>S. agalactiae</i> infection in Nile tilapia.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>CUR-NLCs were synthesized using a phase-inversion compositional technique and characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and release behavior. A 60-day feeding trial was conducted using four dietary treatments: a control diet, a free CUR diet (2000 mg/kg feed), CUR-NLCs containing an equivalent amount of CUR, and blank nanostructured lipid carriers. Growth performance, feed utilization indices, hepatosomatic index, and length-weight relationships were evaluated. Antibacterial activity against <i>S. agalactiae</i> isolates was determined, followed by experimental challenge with strain ENC06 to assess survival responses.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>CUR-NLCs exhibited favorable physicochemical characteristics, including a mean particle size of 215.6 nm, a low polydispersity index (0.145), and a high encapsulation efficiency (98.79%), along with sustained-release properties. CUR-NLCs produced larger inhibition zones against <i>S. agalactiae</i> than free CUR. Fish receiving the CUR-NLC diet demonstrated significantly higher final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed intake, and protein efficiency ratio than the control group (p < 0.05). Positive allometric growth (b = 3.278) and improved relative condition factor were observed in CUR-NLC-fed fish. Following bacterial challenge, CUR-NLC supplementation resulted in the lowest mortality (11.1%), highest survival (88.9%), and highest relative percent survival (82.4%). Cox proportional hazards analysis indicated an approximately 86% reduction in mortality risk compared with infected controls.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Dietary administration of CUR encapsulated in nanostructured lipid carriers improved growth performance, feed utilization efficiency, and post-challenge survival of Nile tilapia. These findings demonstrate that CUR-NLCs represent a promising phytobiotic-based nutritional strategy for enhancing fish health and promoting sustainable tilapia aquaculture.</p>","PeriodicalId":23587,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary World","volume":"19 7","pages":"3156-3175"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13500134/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148809022","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":"Metabolomic profiling reveals candidate biomarkers and key metabolic pathways associated with milk production performance in Sapera dairy goats.","authors":"Rohmiyatul Islamiyati, Athhar Manabi Diansyah, Rahmat Rahmat, Aeni Nurlatifah, Ismah Ulfiyah Azis, Fahrul Irawan, Andi Muhammad Alfian","doi":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.3109-3124","DOIUrl":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.3109-3124","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background and aim: </strong>Milk production efficiency in dairy goats is strongly influenced by metabolic adaptation during lactation. However, information regarding metabolomic signatures associated with milk production performance in Sapera goats remains limited. This study aimed to characterize serum metabolomic differences between high-production (HP) and low-production (LP) Sapera goats and to identify candidate biomarkers and metabolic pathways associated with milk production performance using a liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS)-based metabolomics approach.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>Twenty lactating Sapera goats were classified into HP (n = 10) and LP (n = 10) groups according to previously established milk yield records. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein, and serum metabolites were profiled using LC-HRMS. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were used to evaluate metabolic differences between groups. Differential metabolites were identified based on statistical significance and variable importance in projection scores. Metabolite set enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses were subsequently performed to identify biological pathways associated with differences in production.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Both PCA and PLS-DA demonstrated clear separation between HP and LP goats, indicating distinct metabolic signatures. Fifteen discriminant metabolites were identified as candidate biomarkers associated with milk production performance. Metabolites related to energy and lipid metabolism, including pyruvate, fumarate, glycerol 3-phosphate, β-hydroxybutyric acid, and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaric acid, were more abundant in HP goats. In contrast, sphinganine, phytosphingosine, sphingosine, cystathionine, and ceramide-related intermediates were enriched in LP goats. Enrichment and pathway topology analyses revealed that fatty acid degradation, fatty acid elongation, the citrate cycle, carbohydrate metabolism, and amino acid metabolism were the principal pathways associated with differences in milk production.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Distinct systemic metabolic signatures were associated with milk production performance in Sapera goats. The identified metabolites indicate coordinated alterations in lipid, central carbon, and amino acid metabolism and may serve as candidate biomarkers of lactation efficiency. These findings provide valuable insights for precision nutrition and metabolic management strategies in dairy goat production systems. Further validation using larger populations and longitudinal studies is required to confirm their predictive utility.</p>","PeriodicalId":23587,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary World","volume":"19 7","pages":"3109-3124"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13500140/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148808568","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":"Shotgun metaproteomics reveals habitat-specific antimicrobial resistance-associated proteins of <em>Escherichia</em> spp. and <em>Salmonella</em> spp. in the gut resistome of free-living long-tailed macaques in Thailand.","authors":"Wirasak Fungfuang, Daraka Tongthainan, Sawanya Charoenlappanit, Narumon Phaonakrop, Sittiruk Roytrakul, Kongphop Parunyakul","doi":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.2971-2990","DOIUrl":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.2971-2990","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background and aim: </strong>Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health concern affecting humans, animals, and the environment within the One Health framework. Free-living non-human primates may act as reservoirs and disseminators of antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms through close interactions with humans and shared environments. This study aimed to characterize habitat-specific AMR-associated proteins of <i>Escherichia</i> spp. and <i>Salmonella</i> spp. in the gut resistome of free-living long-tailed macaques (<i>Macaca fascicularis</i>) inhabiting distinct ecological settings in Thailand using a shotgun metaproteomics approach.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>A total of 54 fecal samples were non-invasively collected from free-living long-tailed macaques at two locations in Thailand between January and February 2025: Chongkrachok Mountain, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province (natural ecotourism habitat; n = 16) and Phromawat Temple, Chonburi Province (urban-proximate habitat; n = 38). Proteins were extracted and analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Label-free shotgun metaproteomics was performed using MaxQuant and Perseus platforms. Differential protein expression, functional annotation, and pathway analyses were conducted using MetaboAnalyst 6.0, Gene Ontology classification, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway mapping.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Distinct protein expression profiles of <i>Escherichia</i> spp. and <i>Salmonella</i> spp. were observed between habitats. In <i>Escherichia</i> spp., 1,299 proteins were differentially expressed, whereas 231 differentially expressed proteins were identified in <i>Salmonella</i> spp. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that proteins associated with microbial proliferation predominated in <i>Escherichia</i> spp., while DNA repair and stress-response proteins were enriched in <i>Salmonella</i> spp. from the ecotourism habitat. Notably, AMR-associated proteins were substantially more abundant in <i>Escherichia</i> spp. from the urban-proximate habitat, where 25 resistance-related proteins were identified compared with six in the ecotourism habitat. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis revealed enhanced β-lactam resistance mechanisms involving multidrug efflux systems and β-lactamases in the urban-proximate population, whereas TolC-mediated efflux activity predominated in the ecotourism population.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This shotgun metaproteomic analysis provides the first direct evidence of differentially expressed AMR-associated proteins varying by habitat conditions, revealing active functional mechanisms under anthropogenic pressure and geographic location. Our findings suggest that environmental shifts and dietary habits could directly affect AMR-related functions of the gut microbiota of animals. This finding contributes to understanding the dynamics of AMR under the One Health","PeriodicalId":23587,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary World","volume":"19 7","pages":"2971-2990"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13500141/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148808937","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}
Veterinary WorldPub Date : 2026-07-31Epub Date: 2026-07-11DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2026.2915-2930
James Mutiiria Kithuka, Timothy Muthui Wachira, Franklin Kebungo Ogwankwa, Joshua Orungo Onono
{"title":"Structural, social, and safety barriers limiting mentorship participation among women in Kenya's animal health workforce: A cross-sectional survey of veterinarians and paraprofessionals.","authors":"James Mutiiria Kithuka, Timothy Muthui Wachira, Franklin Kebungo Ogwankwa, Joshua Orungo Onono","doi":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.2915-2930","DOIUrl":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.2915-2930","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background and aim: </strong>Mentorship is essential for strengthening workforce capacity, leadership development, and career progression in veterinary and animal health professions. Despite increasing participation of women in Kenya's animal health workforce, their engagement in structured mentorship programs remains constrained by multiple barriers. This study assessed the structural, social, and safety factors influencing mentorship participation among women veterinary and animal health professionals in Kenya and identified priorities for developing gender-responsive mentorship programs.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 127 female veterinary and animal health professionals representing 24 of Kenya's 47 counties. Participants were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling, and data were collected through a validated structured online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics and perceived barriers, while Wilson 95% confidence intervals were calculated for key proportions. Pearson's chi-square tests were used to examine associations between structural, social, and safety barriers and mentorship participation outcomes, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Although 79.5% of respondents had previously received mentorship, 44.9% reported never or rarely receiving structured career guidance. The most common structural barriers were training costs (53.5%) and transport constraints (52.8%), whereas 60.6% frequently encountered stereotypes portraying animal health as a male profession. Professional competence was frequently questioned because of gender among 39.4% of participants, and 40.2% reported that safety or harassment concerns limited their participation in mentorship or professional development activities. Household and caregiving responsibilities also substantially restricted attendance at mentoring opportunities. Nine statistically significant associations were identified. The strongest relationship showed that combined exposure to safety concerns and gender stereotypes significantly increased withdrawal from professional opportunities (χ² = 19.30, p < 0.001). Career guidance was strongly associated with access to mentorship (χ² = 15.46, p < 0.001), whereas stereotype exposure was significantly associated with competence questioning, leadership exclusion, and professional withdrawal. Respondents prioritized flexible training schedules, financial and transport support, modular learning formats, safeguarding policies, and visible female role models to improve participation.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Women's participation in mentorship within Kenya's animal health workforce is constrained by interacting structural, social, household, and safety-related barriers. Developing gender-responsive mentorship programs that integrate financial support, flexible learning approaches, institutional s","PeriodicalId":23587,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary World","volume":"19 7","pages":"2915-2930"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13500121/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148808916","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":"Differential effects of foot-and-mouth disease infection and vaccination on fertility of Holstein-Friesian heifers: Evidence from a within-animal retrospective study in Indonesia.","authors":"Habib Asshidiq Syah, Widi Nugroho, Aulia Puspita Anugra Yekti, Nurul Isnaini, Sri Wahjuningsih, Mashudi Mashudi, Tri Eko Susilorini, Suyadi Suyadi, Muhaimin Rifa'i, Putri Utami, Anggita Dian Pramudhita, Korawan Sringarm, Trinil Susilawati","doi":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.3176-3190","DOIUrl":"10.14202/vetworld.2026.3176-3190","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background and aim: </strong>Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) remains one of the most economically important transboundary diseases affecting livestock worldwide. Following its re-emergence in Indonesia in 2022 after more than three decades of freedom, concerns arose regarding its impact on dairy cattle fertility and the possible reproductive consequences of emergency vaccination. However, field-based evidence directly comparing the reproductive effects of natural FMD infection and vaccination within the same animals is lacking. This study evaluated the association of clinical FMD infection and inactivated FMD vaccination with reproductive performance in Holstein-Friesian heifers using a within-animal retrospective design.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>A retrospective within-animal before-and-after study was conducted using reproductive records from 772 Holstein-Friesian heifers maintained by 501 smallholder dairy farmers in Malang Regency, East Java, Indonesia. Reproductive performance during two consecutive 180-day periods before-and-after FMD infection or vaccination was compared within the same animals. Heifers were classified into three conditions: clinical FMD during the outbreak (n = 464), clinical FMD after the first vaccination (n = 60), and vaccinated heifers remaining clinically healthy (n = 248). First-service conception rate (FSCR) and pregnancy rate (PR) were analyzed using mixed-effects logistic regression, whereas first-service-to-conception interval (FSCI) and reproductive record exit were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards models.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Clinical FMD infection significantly impaired reproductive performance. In condition 1, FSCR and PR decreased significantly after infection (FSCR: odds ratio [OR] = 0.49, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.35-0.70, p < 0.01; PR: OR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.33-0.57, p < 0.01). The hazard of conception was also significantly reduced (hazard ratio = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.46-0.67, p < 0.01), with the median FSCI increasing from 27.5 to 45 days. Vaccinated heifers that subsequently developed clinical FMD showed no significant deterioration in reproductive performance. Vaccinated clinically healthy heifers exhibited only a modest reduction in PR (OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.48-0.99, p = 0.04), while FSCR remained unchanged. Exploratory analysis indicated that artificial insemination performed >90 days after infection or vaccination was associated with improved conception outcomes.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Natural FMD infection substantially reduced fertility in Holstein-Friesian heifers, whereas vaccination produced comparatively minor and less consistent reproductive effects. These findings support continued FMD vaccination programs while highlighting the importance of integrating vaccination schedules with reproductive management to minimize fertility losses during FMD outbreaks.</p>","PeriodicalId":23587,"journal":{"name":"Veterinary World","volume":"19 7","pages":"3176-3190"},"PeriodicalIF":2.3,"publicationDate":"2026-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13500137/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148809104","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}