Amoxicillin is widely used in human and veterinary medicine and is increasingly detected in aquatic systems, raising concerns regarding its potential adverse effects on sensitive developmental stages. Here, a zebrafish embryonic amoxicillin exposure (EAE) model was used to quantify dose- and time-dependent developmental outcomes and to elucidate underlying metabolic-epigenetic mechanisms. EAE induced dose- and time-dependent increases in mortality and malformation rates, and significantly impaired differentiation of liver, interrenal gland, heart and brain, accompanied by mitochondrial structural damage and reduction in ATP levels. Multi-omics integration identified a previously uncharacterized long noncoding RNA, PCALRx, which was associated with pyruvate carboxylase (PC) and negatively regulated PC protein stability. PCALRx promoted ubiquitination-mediated degradation of PC, resulting in impaired mitochondrial metabolic function and subsequent multi-organ differentiation defects. Knockdown of PCALRx mitigated mitochondrial dysfunction and improved EAE-induced developmental defects. Finally, a drug-repurposing strategy nominated thiamine (vitamin B1) as a metabolic modulator capable of mitigating EAE-induced developmental changes in zebrafish larvae. This protective effect was further validated in a mouse model of prenatal amoxicillin exposure. Together, these findings reveal an lncRNA-mediated regulatory mechanism involving PC ubiquitination and mitochondrial metabolic disruption in amoxicillin-associated developmental toxicity and provide a potential intervention strategy relevant to environmental amoxicillin exposure.
Neonatal calf diarrhoea (NCD) is a major health problem in livestock, causing significant economic losses due to treatment costs, growth retardation, and mortality. Accurately estimating these losses is crucial for effective herd management. Decision tree analysis and Monte Carlo simulation are powerful tools for evaluating the economic impact of different etiological agents. This study aims to determine the economic impacts of the major agents causing diarrhea in newborn calves using Monte Carlo simulation and decision tree analysis. The material used in this study consisted of neonatal period (1-28 days) data of 1,497 calves born on a dairy farm in Türkiye. Health records, including cases of diarrhoea and causative agents, were collected and analysed. An immunochromatographic rapid diagnostic test (BoviD-5 Ag, Bionote, South Korea) was used to identify the agents causing diarrhea. To estimate the economic impact of the main pathogens causing neonatal calf diarrhoea (bovine rotavirus [BRV], bovine coronavirus [BCoV], and Cryptosporidium spp.), a decision tree model and a Monte Carlo simulation were applied. These approaches allowed a general assessment of the financial losses associated with each pathogen and enabled comparison between different disease scenarios (expected and pessimistic). The modelling process was carried out using Python 3.13. In calves without diarrhea (healthy), following only preventive measures, the cost per animal was $13.7. In calves with diarrhea (diseased), the economic loss per animal ranged from $36.82 to $1,519.58, depending on the agent (single or co-infection) and scenario (severity). In single infections, the economic losses ranged from $82.98 to $1,072.72 for Cryptosporidium spp., $61.01 to $1,183.56 for BRV, and $65.74 to $1,170.38 for BCoV. In co-infections, the losses were higher and ranged from $79.34 to $1,246.67 for BRV + BCoV; $142.32 to $1,519.58 for Cryptosporidium spp. + BCoV; $124.90 to $998.25 for BRV + Cryptosporidium spp., and $170.00 to $1,336.52 for the triple infection (Cryptosporidium spp. + BCoV + BRV). The total economic loss of diarrhea for a farm with 1,497 calves born annually was estimated at $130,502.52 (95% CI: $96,391.72-168,419.85). Economic losses due to calf diarrhea agents were estimated separately for single and co-infections under recovery (expected) and mortality (pessimistic) scenarios using Monte Carlo simulation and decision tree analysis. The results provide a decision support tool for farm management, resource planning, and veterinary health policy.
Laminitis is a painful and potentially life-threatening inflammatory condition of the equine hoof, and its detection remains a major challenge in veterinary practice. Although several risk factors have been reported, the prediction of the onset of laminitis in a subclinical stage using routine clinical data is still limited. This study aims to address this gap by developing an interpretable machine learning (ML) framework for the prediction of the risk of laminitis in horses. A point-based risk scoring system was first constructed using multivariate logistic regression to quantify the contribution of clinical, physiological, and conformational variables. Subsequently, this statistical model was combined with multiple ML classifiers to improve predictive performance. Explainability techniques, including ELI5 and feature importance analysis, were applied to each model to improve transparency and support the clinical interpretation of their predictions. Among the nine classifiers evaluated, SVM achieved the highest F1-score of 0.858 ± 0.152 and MCC of 0.811 ± 0.211, with TabPFN recording the highest AUC of 0.932 ± 0.094 and Random Forest achieving the highest precision of 0.917 ± 0.180. The risk scores reached maximum values of up to 0.97, with the lameness examination right fore (LERF), hoof testers right hind (HTRH), digital pulses, rectal temperature, and age identified as the most influential predictors across all evaluated classifiers. In general, the results demonstrate that the integration of statistical risk modeling with interpretable ML enables an accurate and clinically meaningful assessment of laminitis risk. The proposed approach provides a practical decision-support tool that may help veterinarians in preventive management and improve the results of equine welfare. All the source code is available at github.
To assess clinical and radiographic outcomes of multiple intramedullary and skewer pin fixation in complex humeral and femoral fractures of cats and small-breed dogs as an alternative fixation strategy in selected clinical cases. This retrospective study included 32 client-owned animals treated between 2015 and 2025 at six private veterinary clinics. Complex fractures with comminution, distal fragment involvement or limited fragment size were stabilised using multiple intramedullary Steinmann pins with optional skewer pins and/or cerclage wires. Postoperative radiographs were evaluated for alignment. Healing time and walking outcomes (Grade 1-4) were recorded. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests and one-way ANOVA. Anatomical alignment was achieved in 26/32 fractures (81%). Mean healing time was 3.3 months. Functional outcome was excellent (Grade 1) in 24/32 cases (75%) and good (Grade 2) in 6/32 cases (19%). One case showed poor function (3%), and outcome was unknown in one case. No statistically significant association was identified between alignment and walking outcome (p > 0.05). No postoperative infections or non-unions were observed. Mild implant migration and malalignment occurred in some cases but did not prevent satisfactory functional recovery in most animals. Multiple intramedullary and skewer pin fixation can provide satisfactory stabilisation and functional recovery in complex humeral and femoral fractures of cats and small-breed dogs when applied carefully and supported by appropriate postoperative management.
Orthograde endodontic treatment of equine cheek teeth is performed infrequently with variable success rates of obturation with calcium hydroxide paste (CHP). A novel flowable calcium silicate cement (eCSC) formulated for use as an obturation material in equine teeth has demonstrated acceptable canal filling volumes and evidence of dentinal tubule penetration. However, clinical outcomes of eCSC-obturated equine teeth have not been reported. To report the clinical outcomes of orthograde endodontic treatment using eCSC. Retrospective case series. Horses that underwent orthograde endodontic treatment using eCSC at a single referral centre between October 2020 and March 2026 and had ≥12 months follow-up were included in the study. Seven horses, with endodontic treatments on six cheek teeth and one incisor were included. The success rate of eCSC was 6 of 7 cases, with up to 5.5 years of follow-up. One eCSC case demonstrated healing of a draining tract to the paranasal sinus on CT and histologically showed no evidence of periapical infection or inflammation 16 months after treatment. The singular failed eCSC-treated tooth demonstrated incomplete cleaning and obturation of one pulp canal on histological examination. Small case numbers, heterogeneous follow-up, and a single operator limit the generalisability of these findings. Orthograde endodontic treatment of equine teeth using eCSC can result in long-term clinical success. CT and histopathological findings available for one case support biological healing in successfully treated eCSC cases. A prospective, multi-centre study with standardised follow-up is warranted to establish the predictability and indications of eCSC as an obturation material for equine endodontics.
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2026.1842801.].
Laparoscopic ovariectomy (LOE) is a common procedure for elective sterilization in dogs and is associated with less tissue trauma than open techniques. However, manipulation of the ovarian pedicle may still induce nociceptive stimulation and contribute to perioperative inflammatory responses and changes in antioxidant enzyme activity. Topical administration of local anaesthetic to the ovarian pedicle may improve perioperative analgesia in minimally invasive surgery. To evaluate the effects of topical administration of bupivacaine HCl to the ovarian pedicle on postoperative pain, serum antioxidant enzyme activity and systemic pro-inflammatory cytokines in dogs undergoing LOE. Twenty-four clinically healthy, American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) Class I female dogs were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, controlled trial. The dogs were allocated to receive either a total dose of bupivacaine HCl at 2.2 mg/kg (BPLOVE, n = 12), divided between the two ovarian pedicles, or an equivalent volume of isotonic saline (LOVE, n = 12), applied using the same topical technique. Standardized anaesthesia and surgical protocols were implemented. Postoperative pain was assessed using the University of Melbourne Pain Scale (UMPS) at 0, 2 and 4 h after surgery. Serum samples collected preoperatively, intraoperatively, and at 0, 2 and 4 h postoperatively were analysed for superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Data were analysed using repeated-measures ANOVA and non-parametric tests (p < 0.05). All dogs completed the study without experiencing any major complications or requiring intraoperative rescue analgesia. UMPS scores were significantly lower in the BPLOVE group at all postoperative time points (p < 0.05). Significant group and time effects were observed in SOD and CAT activities, with higher antioxidant enzyme activity detected in bupivacaine-treated dogs (p < 0.05). Cytokine outcomes showed no consistent between-group differences; IL-6 was numerically lower in the BPLOVE group across time points, with a significant difference detected only at 4 h postoperatively. Topical administration of bupivacaine HCl to the ovarian pedicle during LOE was associated with improved early postoperative analgesia and higher serum SOD and CAT activities, without consistent short-term changes in systemic pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations. These findings support the potential value of ovarian pedicle bupivacaine administration as part of multimodal analgesia in canine laparoscopic surgery and indicate changes in antioxidant enzyme activity during the early perioperative period.
Bronchiectasis, a congenital or acquired condition, is rarely described in kittens. The following case series reports the radiographic and computed tomography (CT) findings in three kittens (aged less than 6 months) presenting with severe bronchiectasis and concurrent detection of Mycoplasma felis. Medical records, thoracic radiographs, and CT scans were reviewed. Radiographic and CT examinations were independently assessed for the distribution and type of bronchiectasis, airway content, pulmonary changes (atelectasis, hyperinflation, consolidation, bronchial wall thickening), pleural abnormalities (pleural effusion, pleural thickening, and pneumothorax), and lymphadenopathy. Interstitial pattern was assessed on thoracic radiographs, whereas ground-glass attenuation and mosaic attenuation were assessed on CT images. Bronchiectasis was classified as cylindrical, varicose, or saccular. Varicose bronchiectasis was identified in the three kittens (3/3) by radiography and CT. Saccular bronchiectasis was detected in one kitten on radiographs and in two kittens on CT scans, whereas cylindrical bronchiectasis was not identified by either imaging modality. Lesions mainly affected a single hemithorax and primarily involved the caudal lung lobes. Moderate to severe atelectasis was consistently present in affected lobes, with compensatory hyperinflation of the contralateral lung in all cases. CT provided additional diagnostic information compared with radiography, particularly for the detection and characterization of bronchial content and lymphadenopathy. Mycoplasma felis was detected in all kittens by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Histopathological findings, available in two of the three kittens, supported the diagnosis of bronchiectasis.
Cryopreservation induces oxidative stress, leading to reduced semen quality in canine semen. Clinoptilolite (CLP), a natural zeolite, has potential antioxidant properties that may improve post-thaw sperm parameters. This study aimed to evaluate the dose-dependent effects of CLP supplementation in semen extenders on sperm quality and oxidative stress in dogs. Semen was collected from four adult dogs by manual manipulation, divided into five equal aliquots, and diluted at a ratio of 1:3 (v/v) with a Tris-citrate extender containing 0% (control), 1%, 2%, 3%, or 4% CLP. Samples were cooled to 5°C within 45 min, equilibrated for 2 h in 0.25 mL straws, frozen in liquid nitrogen vapour, and stored in liquid nitrogen. Samples were thawed at 37°C for 30 s. Post-thaw sperm quality was evaluated together with oxidative stress markers, including total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI). The 2% CLP group showed the highest post-thaw sperm quality, whereas the lowest performance was observed in the 4% CLP group. Additionally, the 2% CLP group exhibited a more favourable oxidative profile, with higher TAS and lower TOS and OSI values than all other groups. CLP supplementation exerted dose-dependent effects on sperm quality and oxidative balance in canine semen cryopreservation. A 2% CLP concentration appears to be the most effective for improving post-thaw sperm quality.
Mutations in the breast cancer susceptibility gene 2 (BRCA2) are well known to increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Emerging evidence indicates that BRCA2 mutation carriers exhibit increased vascular disorder and may develop endothelial dysfunction, a key mechanism underlying hypertension. Angiotensin II (Ang II), a central effector of the renin-angiotensin system, is a key regulator of blood pressure and a major driver of hypertension, promoting endothelial injury through oxidative stress, inflammation, and impaired nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. However, the role of endothelial BRCA2 in Ang II-induced endothelial dysfunction remains unknown. BRCA2 was silenced in cultured endothelial cells and following Ang II treatment, ROS generation, DNA damage, apoptosis, inflammation, NO production, migration, angiogenic capacity, Ang II receptors and related signaling pathways were assessed. BRCA2 deficiency exacerbated Ang II-induced increases in ROS, DNA damage, and apoptosis, along with impaired functional capacity, including reduced migration and angiogenesis. NO production was suppressed, accompanied by increased micronuclei formation and enhanced c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation. In addition, both BRCA2 loss and Ang II treatment upregulated the Ang II receptor AT1R. Pharmacological inhibition of AT1R attenuated Ang II-induced increases in DNA damage and apoptosis in BRCA2-deficient endothelial cells. These findings provide the first pharmacogenomic evidence that BRCA2 deficiency sensitizes endothelial cells to Ang II-induced dysfunction, suggesting that BRCA2 mutation carriers may be at increased risk for hypertension-associated cardiovascular complications.
The larval trematode taxon Monilicaecum ventricosum Yamaguti, 1942 (Didymozoidae) was redescribed from its type host, the Pacific saury Cololabis saira (Brevoort, 1856), collected from the North Pacific off Eastern Hokkaido, Japan. Because didymozoid larvae and adults differ markedly in morphology, linking these two stages using morphological data alone has traditionally been difficult. Consequently, the monotypic genus Monilicaecum Yamaguti, 1942 is currently regarded as a collective group, similar to genera established solely on larval forms of other trematodes. However, recent advances in molecular studies have enabled researchers to link larval and adult stages, clarify life cycles, and undertake more robust taxonomic evaluations. In this study, newly collected larval specimens were examined morphologically, and DNA barcodes (28S, ITS, and cox1) were generated to confirm their identity as M. ventricosum through morphological comparisons with type materials. These sequences were compared with those available in public databases to determine the corresponding adult stages and definitive hosts. Although no identical adult sequences were detected, M. ventricosum showed a close genetic relationship with four didymozoid species parasitizing the Australian yellowfin tuna, Thunnus albacares (Bonnaterre, 1788), suggesting that its definitive host is likely a species of Thunnus South, 1845. These findings provide essential molecular data for M. ventricosum, contribute to the taxonomic stability of Didymozoidae, and offer a foundation for future studies aimed at elucidating species boundaries and life-cycle connections within this group.
Klebsiella pneumoniae is an emerging pathogen of global concern due to its capacity to acquire antimicrobial resistance and virulence determinants, yet its presence in the food environment remains unexplored. This study investigated the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, virulence genes, biofilm formation, and genomic characteristics of K. pneumoniae isolated from a widely consumed street food in Bangladesh. A total of 90 fuchka and related samples from different sources were collected and analyzed using culture-based methods, PCR confirmation, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight assay, and 16S rRNA sequencing. Antibiotic sensitivity was determined using the disk diffusion method, and resistance- and virulence-associated genes were detected by PCR. Biofilm formation was quantified using a 96-well microtiter plate assay, and genetic diversity was assessed by enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus-PCR (ERIC-PCR) fingerprinting. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed on four representative isolates for in-depth genomic characterization. K. pneumoniae was recovered from 46.7% of samples. Among the isolates, 37.5% exhibited a multidrug-resistant (MDR) phenotype, with universal resistance to ampicillin. Virulence genes including wabG (90.5%) and uge (95.2%) were highly prevalent, whereas rmpA and bfp were absent. Capsular serotypes K3 and K5 were detected in 16.7% of isolates. The class 1 integron (int1) (83.3%) and tetA (56.7%) were the most frequently detected resistance determinants. Biofilm formation was observed in 31% of isolates and significantly associated with the MDR phenotype. WGS revealed clinically relevant sequence types (ST2262) phylogenomically related to human clinical strains. These findings indicate that fuchka may act as a reservoir for virulent and MDR K. pneumoniae, highlighting the urgent need for improved hygiene practices and integration of street food into the One Health antimicrobial surveillance framework. The presence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae in ready-to-eat street foods poses a significant public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where informal food vending is widespread. Fuchka is consumed daily by diverse population groups in Bangladesh, including children and young adults, making it a potential route for silent transmission of clinically important pathogens. The detection of MDR strains harboring virulence factors, integrons, and biofilm-forming ability suggests an elevated risk of persistence, spread, and limited treatment options in case of infection. This study highlights street food as an overlooked reservoir in the One Health framework, bridging community environments and clinical settings. Improved surveillance, vendor hygiene training, and enforcement of food safety regulations are crucial to reduce the risk of dissemination of these high-risk strains.
Canine epitheliotropic T-cell lymphoma (CETL) is an aggressive and generally incurable disease in dogs. CCNU (lomustine) is commonly used for management, even though it carries a significant risk of adverse effects. Several reports describe oclacitinib producing clinical improvement in affected dogs, yet comparative data between the two treatments are lacking. To compare the clinical outcomes in dogs with CETL treated with oclacitinib or CCNU, focussing on tumour reduction (response), survival time and time-to-relapse. This retrospective review (2008-2024) included 23 client-owned dogs with confirmed CETL treated with either CCNU (n = 11) or oclacitinib (n = 12). Outcomes included response (reduction in measurable tumour burden), survival (time from histopathological diagnosis to death) and time-to-relapse (for dogs with complete or good responses). Clinical presentation and adverse effects also were recorded. Additionally, sex, age and weight were compared between treatment groups to investigate potential confounding factors. No statistically significant differences were identified between oclacitinib and CCNU for response, survival or time-to-relapse (p > 0.05 for all). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed no significant difference in overall survival (log-rank test, p = 0.20). Oclacitinib was associated with fewer adverse effects and reduced monitoring intensity. These findings suggest oclacitinib may offer outcomes comparable to CCNU for CETL, with fewer adverse effects and less intensive monitoring. The small, retrospective sample limits firm conclusions, yet these results indicate that oclacitinib could be a reasonable, possibly safer palliative option warranting further prospective study.
Fruits are important in the diet because of the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals they provide for a healthy life; however, they can also serve as a potential source of opportunistic pathogens, including enterococci. They are considered zoonotic pathogens that cause severe infections in humans. This work aimed to isolate Enterococcus faecalis from fruit surfaces and to detect its virulence genes, biofilm-forming ability, and antibiotic resistance patterns. A total of 76 samples of seven different types of fruits were collected and surface-washed, and used to isolate and identify E. faecalis by cultural and biochemical tests, followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the disk diffusion method for antimicrobial susceptibility testing, a Congo Red Agar test for the determination of biofilm-forming ability, and PCR for virulence gene detection. Out of 76 samples, 47 (61.84%) fruit samples were found to be positive for E. faecalis, with the highest prevalence in oranges compared to the other six fruits. In the phenotypic antibiogram study, resistance was most frequently observed against commonly used antibiotics, including ampicillin (90.00%) and erythromycin (57.50%), while notable resistance was also detected against vancomycin (47.50%) and the last-resort antibiotic linezolid (47.50%). The ampicillin-resistance gene, blaTEM, was present in 65% of the isolates. Additionally, 60% of isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR), with the MAR index ranging from 0.33 to 0.78. Key virulence genes (agg, ace, gelE, fsrB, and pil) and biofilm-forming capabilities were distributed among the isolates, indicating their potential for persistence and pathogenicity. These findings suggest that fruit surfaces harbor antibiotic-resistant E. faecalis; therefore, fruits should be thoroughly washed before eating and monitored using One Health strategies to reduce the risk to human health.
This study aims to clarify the drug resistance status, carriage of drug-resistant genes, and the effect of baicalin on drug resistance in bovine respiratory Pasteurella multocida (Pm). Strains were isolated and cultured from bovine respiratory disease samples, and then PCR identification, drug sensitivity testing, and detection of drug-resistant genes were carried out. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of baicalin to Pm was determined by the microdilution method. The effects of baicalin at different concentrations on the drug-resistant phenotype of Pm were evaluated, and qRT-PCR was used to measure the impact of baicalin on the expression level of the aac(6')-Ib-cr gene. The fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) of baicalin combined with enrofloxacin was determined by the microcheckerboard dilution method, and the quinolone resistance-determining region (QRDR) was compared. A total of 10 Pm strains were isolated, including 8 capsular Serotype A and 2 Serotype D; among them, 5 were multidrug-resistant. All 10 strains carried the strA, strB, and blaROB-1 drug-resistant genes. Baicalin at 1/2 MIC and 1/4 MIC concentrations reduced the drug resistance of Pm to amikacin, kanamycin, ciprofloxacin, and enrofloxacin with prolonged intervention time and significantly or extremely significantly decreased the expression level of the aac(6')-Ib-cr drug-resistant gene. The combination of baicalin and enrofloxacin showed a synergistic effect, and after combined culture, isoleucine (Ile) at Position 83 of the gyrA gene in Pm was replaced by arginine (Arg). The isolated Pm strains were predominantly Serotype A and mostly drug-resistant. Baicalin can effectively enhance the sensitivity of multidrug-resistant isolates to amikacin, kanamycin, ciprofloxacin, and enrofloxacin by inhibiting the expression of aac(6')-Ib-cr. The combination of baicalin and enrofloxacin exhibits a synergistic effect, mutually enhancing bacterial sensitivity to the drugs. Kaiwen Yin, Huiling Zhang, and Puguo Hao contributed equally to this work.
Chronic morphine consumption induces oxidative stress and renal dysfunction, effects that may be exacerbated by aging-related declines in adaptive capacity. Regular endurance exercise enhances antioxidant defense and mitochondrial regulation; however, its ability to counteract morphine-induced renal alterations across different stages of aging remains insufficiently characterized. Male wistar rats, categorized as young and aged based on chronological age and body weight, were allocated to control, morphine, exercise, and morphine plus exercise groups within each age category. Morphine was administered via drinking water for four weeks. Concurrently, animals in the exercise groups performed moderate-intensity continuous training on a treadmill. At study completion, serum and renal tissues were collected for assessment of oxidative stress markers (MDA, TAC, SOD), MPO, renal function indices (BUN and creatinine), and renal expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and Klotho, Mitochondrial compatibility markers (Citrate synthase activity and TFAM). Chronic morphine exposure was associated with increased oxidative stress markers and decreased antioxidant capacity in kidney tissue, and simultaneously increased serum urea and creatinine levels in young and old mice, indicating impaired renal functional status. Chronic morphine administration also decreased SIRT1 and Klotho levels in young and old animals. In contrast, 4 weeks of endurance training improved markers of mitochondrial adaptation, oxidative balance, and renal function, which were associated with increased expression of SIRT1 and Klotho in kidney tissue. These changes could indicate a potential link between exercise training and molecular pathways involved in the regulation of oxidative stress and renal homeostasis. However, these findings suggest an association, and causal or mechanistic interpretations will require further investigation in future studies. These findings indicate that endurance training is associated with more favorable renal biomarker profiles in the context of chronic opioid exposure.
Feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) is a major cause of upper respiratory and ocular disease in domestic cats and remains widely distributed worldwide. However, information on FHV-1 exposure and neutralising antibody responses in cats from Namibia is limited. This study assessed FHV-1 neutralising antibody prevalence in a convenience sample of 236 domestic cats sampled across 15 towns in eight regions of Namibia. Neutralising antibodies were detected in 18/236 (8%) cats (95% CI: 4.88-11.73%). Seropositive animals were identified only in Erongo, Khomas, and Hardap regions, with the highest regional seroprevalence observed in Erongo. Seropositivity was uncommon in both vaccinated and unvaccinated cats and was not significantly associated with vaccination status, feline immunodeficiency virus antibody status, or feline leukaemia virus antigen status. A significant association was identified between seropositivity and oculonasal discharge (p < 0.001). Overall, the findings indicate low FHV-1 neutralising antibody prevalence within the sampled population rather than the wider domestic cat population of Namibia, and suggest that detectable neutralising antibodies were observed predominantly in unvaccinated cats, although interpretation is limited by the small number of vaccinated animals and the absence of detailed vaccination histories.
The Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) impacts the health of humans, livestock, and wildlife, both as a parasite and a vector. Over more than a century, H. longicornis has become a widespread invasive species across much of the Asia-Pacific region, with a recent emergence in North America. This dispersal success could be associated with the ability of certain lineages of H. longicornis to reproduce via parthenogenesis. We analyzed complete mitochondrial genomes and genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from ticks collected within the native range of H. longicornis (Japan), invasive populations in the Asia-Pacific (Australia, Fiji, and New Caledonia), and laboratory-maintained parthenogenetic and bisexual strains. We also compared our data with DNA sequences in GenBank from invasive populations in other countries (e.g., United States). Two distinct clades (Mt-Clade 1 and Mt-Clade 2) were observed in the phylogenetic tree based on mitochondrial genomes. All specimens from the bisexual laboratory strains were assigned to Mt-Clade 1 and those from the parthenogenetic laboratory strains were assigned to Mt-Clade 2, whereas the field-collected male specimens were included in both clades. No geographical cline associated with the phylogenetic characteristics was observed. In contrast, analyses based on genome-wide SNPs demonstrated a cluster composed of Oceanian samples apart from Japanese samples and detected gene flow between the two mitogenomic clades. Our results suggest that parthenogenesis may have evolved multiple times within H. longicornis rather than originating from a single evolutionary event.
Ticks are among the most important ectoparasite of cattle, causing economic losses through reduced productivity, skin damage and the transmission of tick-borne pathogens. Information on tick epidemiology, community awareness and attachment-site preferences remains limited in many parts of Ethiopia, including Tigray Region. To determine the prevalence, species composition, risk factors, community knowledge and attachment-site preferences of bovine ticks in selected districts of Tigray, northern Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted in three districts of Tigray, northern Ethiopia. A total of 1023 cattle were clinically examined for tick infestation, and collected ticks were identified using standard morphological keys. Household surveys were administered to 422 cattle owners to assess knowledge and control practices. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with tick infestation. Overall, 41.5% (424/1023) of cattle were infested with ticks. A total of 2952 ticks were collected and identified as Rhipicephalus (75.9%), Hyalomma (21.7%) and Amblyomma variegatum (2.4%), with Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi (26.2%), Rhipicephalus decoloratus (25.9%) and Rhipicephalus pulchellus (23.8%) being the predominant species. Tick infestation varied significantly among kebeles. In the multivariable analysis, poor housing (odds ratio [OR] = 10.54), poor body condition (OR = 7.72), herd management practices and cattle breed were significantly associated with infestation, whereas owner literacy was protective (OR = 0.55). Most respondents (91.5%) recognized tick infestation, but only 28.0% associated ticks with disease transmission. Tick infestation remains widespread among cattle in Tigray and is influenced by animal-, management-, and environment-related factors. Limited awareness of tick-borne diseases highlights the need for improved farmer education. Integrating community knowledge with species-specific tick ecology could enhance the effectiveness of targeted tick control strategies.
Domestic pigs and wild boar are well-established reservoirs for zoonotic hepatitis E virus (HEV) but whether it also occurs in other Suidae, including warthog, is unknown. Serum samples from 267 free-ranging warthogs collected in Kruger National Park and Mokala National Park, South Africa, were tested for anti-HEV antibodies and for HEV RNA. Overall, 22% (58/267) of samples were seropositive, with significantly higher seroprevalence in Mokala National Park (32%) than Kruger National Park (13%) (χ2 = 13, p = 0.0003). No HEV RNA was detected. These findings provide the first serological evidence of HEV exposure in African warthogs.