Abstract: Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) is a major viral threat to swine, causing a significant economic loss in the global pig farming industry. This virus includes two major genotypes, both characterized by high mutation rates and genetic variability, complicating the development of a universally effective vaccine and the control of disease consequently. To address this challenge, a novel multi-epitope-based vaccine was designed to elicit a robust and cross-protective immune response against multiple PRRSV strains. The complete sequences of PRRSV-encoded proteins were retrieved worldwide, and the conserved fragments were identified through the alignment of polypeptide sequences. Subsequent screening was conducted screened epitopes for their potential to be safe and to activate B cells, CTLs, and HTLs. By conjugating the selected epitopes with distinct adjuvant proteins, three vaccine candidates were designed and termed as PRRSV-Vaccine (PRRSV-V-1, PRRSV-V-2, and PRRSV-V-3 respectively). Furthermore, systematic evaluations of their physiochemistry properties, structural stability, binding with pattern recognition receptors, and induction of the host immune system were performed. PRRSV-V-2 was demonstrated with the most promising physicochemical and structural characteristics, strong binding with TLR3 and TLR8, and the most vigorous reactions of host immune response. As the most promising candidate, the recombinant PRRSV plasmid was in-silico designed for expression in Escherichia coli. Our study proposed a novel approach to PRRSV vaccine development against PRRSV, offering a promising strategy for controlling the infection across diverse PRRSV virus strains in swine.

Abstract: In small animal practice, blood cultures (BCs) are essential for diagnosing bacterial bloodstream infections (BSIs), guiding targeted antimicrobial therapy particularly in relation to the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. This study analyzed 96 positive BCs from dogs and cats at the Veterinary University Hospital (VUH) of Bologna (2020–2024), assessing bacterial prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, and associated risk factors. Escherichia coli was the most common isolate (29/96), followed by Streptococcus canis (11/96). MDR percentage was 29.2% (28/96), with gram-negatives associated with higher rates (p=0.040). Nearly half of the cases (46.9%, 45/96) were suspected healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), significantly associated with the number of invasive devices used (p=0.008), and with the absence of co-positive samples (p=0.012). Empirical antibiotic therapy was administered in 94.8% (91/96) of cases, with ampicillin-sulbactam and marbofloxacin as the most used drugs. In vitro empirical therapy appropriateness was 76.9% (70/91). MDR was associated with inappropriate empirical therapy (p<0.001). Mortality within 30 days was 36.5% (35/96), significantly linked to antibiotic escalation (p=0.006). The findings highlight the need for systematic BC surveillance in veterinary settings to optimize treatment strategies (especially in countries with restrictions on antibiotic use in animals), to mitigate MDR spread and to protect public health.

Abstract: Treating endometritis is one of the major challenges faced by veterinarians. The effect of post-insemination intrauterine infusion Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stromal/stem cell-derived conditioned medium (WJ-MSC-CM) on the uterine response and pregnancy outcomes in problem mares was evaluated in this study. The cycles of 11 problem mares were randomly treated seven/eight hours after insemination with intrauterine infusion of 20 ml of WJ-MSC-CM (TRT) or non-conditioned Ringer’s lactate solution (CTR). Before (PRE) and 12 hours after (POST) treatment, an ultrasonographic examination and a low-volume flush (LVF) for efflux clarity evaluation and bacteriological and cytological analysis were made. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed at 14 days and confirmed at 60 days after ovulation. A decrease (P<0.05) in polymorphonuclear neutrophils infiltration and a trend toward significance in LVF efflux clarity (P<0.1) were observed in TRT cycles. Only a trend toward significance was observed comparing pregnancy frequencies between the two groups (CTR 14% vs. TRT 54%), the pregnancy rate of TRT cycles was comparable to that of normal mares (P>0.05) and higher (P<0.05) than that reported for problem mares in the literature. Post-insemination uterine infusion of WJ-MSC-CM in mares restores pregnancy rates to normal levels, by its anti-inflammatory effect.

Abstract: Avian influenza A viruses (AIV) significantly impact both animal and human health. Reliable diagnostics are crucial for controlling AIV, including the highly pathogenic strains like H5Nx. In this study, we developed and validated the on-site Alveo Sense Poultry Avian Influenza Tests to rapidly detect the AIV M-gene and subtypes H5, H7, and H9 in unprocessed samples using reverse-transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) and impedance-based measurements. The Alveo Sense tests, using single-use microfluidic cartridges, deliver results within 45 minutes. Each cartridge includes assays for the AIV M gene and specific H5 and H7 or H9 subtypes, with internal process controls. The laboratory validation involved specificity, limit of detection (LoD), diagnostic sensitivity, reproducibility, and robustness tests using various AIV strains, other avian pathogens, and field samples. The assays showed 100% specificity for AIV subtypes without cross-reactivity with non-AIV pathogens. The LoD95 for H5, H7, and H9 ranged between RT-PCR Ct values of 29-33 in both cloacal and oropharyngeal samples and were able to detect avian influenza virus in both spiked samples and field samples. Reproducibility and repeatability studies showed perfect agreement across operators and laboratories and remained stable and accurate under different pre-analytical conditions. The Alveo Sense tests offer rapid, accurate, and reliable on-site diagnostics for AIV subtypes H5, H7, and H9 on samples from fresh dead and sick birds, valuable for early flock-level detection and outbreak control. Further field validation will improve the understanding of their diagnostic performance across various avian species.

Abstract: Antibiotics are commonly used to aid in the remission of gastrointestinal diseases, but usage may lead to prolonged dysbiosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of metronidazole on fecal microbiota, fecal metabolites, and serum bile acids and uremic toxins of healthy adult cats. Twelve healthy adult cats (4.7±0.4 yr) received metronidazole (20 mg/kg BW PO BID) for 14 days (day 0–14) and were monitored during a 28-day recovery period (day 15–42). Fecal and blood samples were collected at baseline (day 0), after metronidazole (day 14), and weekly during recovery (days 21, 28, 35, and 42). Fecal samples were analyzed for microbiota and bacterial metabolites. Serum samples were analyzed for bile acids and uremic toxins. Metronidazole increased dysbiosis index and fecal lactate concentrations (P&lt;0.0001), and decreased fecal propionate, butyrate, and secondary bile acid concentrations (P&lt;0.0001) for up to 28 days. Prolonged dysbiosis and Peptacetobacter (Clostridium) hiranonis reductions were observed in 10/12 (83%) cats. Serum uremic toxins were also reduced (P&lt;0.0001) after metronidazole administration. The observed changes after metronidazole administration illustrate how changes in the gut microbiome alter microbial metabolism and its relation to host dysmetabolism. In conclusion, metronidazole is a potent antibiotic with persistent effects observed in the microbiome and metabolome, even up to one month after administration.

Abstract: Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) is a plasma exchange modality that allows selective clearance of high molecular weight proteins, potentially minimizing albumin loss and the need for volume replacement. Reports concerning DFPP use in dogs are scarce. This study evaluates the quantitative net loss of different plasma proteins fractions in an ex-vivo model using canine blood processed via DFPP. DFPP treatment with INUSpheresis processing 1.5, 2 and 3 plasma volumes (PV) was performed. Plasma proteins fractions were measured in the reservoir blood bag at baseline (pre-treatment) and in the effluent bag at the end of each target PV exchanged to calculate the net loss of selected plasma proteins. At 1.5 PV, net globulin and albumin loss was 41 and 25% respectively. At 3 PV, net globulin and albumin loss was 47 and 40%, respectively. Fibrinogen concentration were unmeasurable low in the reservoir blood bag after processing 1.5 PV. INUSpheresis allows selective plasma proteins removal, with sparing effect on albumin at 1.5 PV. Selectivity is however progressively reduced with incremental target PV. A description of five DFPP treatments in three dogs is additionally presented. Semi-selective protein removal was demonstrated also in-vivo, with a significantly lower percentage reduction of albumin compared to total globulin (P=0.01) and fibrinogen (P=0.007).

Abstract: Background: Use of kinesiology taping has increased in veterinary medicine, yet there are few studies of its effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of kinesiology taping of the tarsus on kinetic and kinematic gait characteristics while performing selected exercises in dogs using 3D motion capture and force platform analysis of gait. Methods: Ten clinically normal, healthy, adult mixed-breed dogs were recruited for this study. Reflective markers were applied to the skin of the left and right pelvic limbs if each dog. Eight infrared cameras were positioned around a 13 m platform containing a force platform. Dogs were walked, trotted and led over cavaletti rails with and without kinesiology tape extending from the distal tibia, crossing the cranial surface of the tarsus, and extending to the dorsal surface of the metatarsals. The trial was repeated 2 hours later. Maximum flexion and extension in the sagittal plane, and maximum angular acceleration and velocity were measured at the tarsus and stifle for each dog. Peak vertical (ZPeak), braking (YA) and propulsion (YB) forces were determined as a percent of body weight while walking and trotting. Results: Ground reaction forces were greater at the trot compared to the walk, and stifle and tarsal flexion were greater with stepping over cavaletti rails as compared to walking and trotting. There were no differences in kinematic or kinetic measurements related to the kinesiology tape application, time or exercise being performed. Conclusions: Kinesiology tape had no effect on tarsal joint gait characteristics while walking, trotting, or stepping over cavaletti rails when applied to the dorsal tarsus of normal dogs.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Marbofloxacin, a second-generation fluoroquinolone, is used to control economically significant poultry diseases caused by pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Although synergistic antimicrobial activity between fluoroquinolones and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) has been observed in vitro, data on their pharmacokinetic interactions in vivo remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of NAC on the oral pharmacokinetics of marbofloxacin in broiler chickens and its antibacterial activity against E. coli ATCC 25922 and S. aureus ATCC 25923, assessing the potential benefits of their combined administration. Methods: Marbofloxacin pharmacokinetics was evaluated in broilers (5 mg/kg dose) after single intravenous (n=12) or single oral (n=12) administration into the crop; co-administration with NAC (400 mg/kg via feed): first day poultry (n=12) received single oral dose of marbofloxacin via the crop and next days the fluoroquinoilone drug was administered via drinking water. Plasma levels were determined by LC-MS/MS analysis and minimum inhibitory concentrations were assessed using the microbroth dilution method. Results: NAC significantly reduced bioavailability of marbofloxacin after a single oral administration into the crop and decreased the elimination rate constant following multiple administration of both drugs. At a concentration of 20 μg/mL, NAC led to a 3.8-fold reduction in the MIC of marbofloxacin against E. coli ATCC 25922 and a two-fold decrease at concentrations between 1 μg/mL and 6 μg/mL, while no change was observed for S. aureus ATCC 25923. Conclusions: Oral co-administration of NAC and marbofloxacin reduced fluoroquinolone bioavailability by two-fold while enhancing antibacterial activity against E. coli ATCC 25922.

Abstract: Prostatic disorders are commonly observed in older, intact male dogs and have been a primary etiological factor in the development of PH. Most literature recommends per-forming perineal herniorrhaphy concurrently with castration to reduce the recurrence of PH, although some studies remain controversial. Limited literature exists regarding correcting PH with castration in dogs suffering from prostatic disorders, including management and long-term clinical outcomes. This retrospective study aimed to de-scribe the management of prostatic disorders and evaluate outcomes and recurrence following perineal herniorrhaphy with castration. A total of 315 intact male dogs that underwent perineal herniorrhaphy due to prostatic disorders were classified into two groups: a castrated group (PHC; n=184) and a non-castrated group (PHNC; n=131). The clinical signs of the PHC group showed significant improvement in the postoperative, short and long-term follow-up phases (p< 0.001). Prostate gland enlargement, hetero-geneous parenchyma and intraparenchymal cystic lesions were more prevalent in the short-term of the PHNC group and the long-term of the PHNC-2 group (p< 0.001). Nevertheless, the incidence of recurrent PH showed no significant differences between the PHC and PHNC groups (p=0.48). In conclusion, this study indicates that castration does not significantly reduce PH recurrence, addressing prostatic diseases during sur-gery is crucial to improve outcomes.

Abstract:

Emotional contagion in human-horse interactions has been widely studied, yet the role of body language in stress transfer remains insufficiently explored. This study examines whether human emotional states, particularly stress and anxiety, influence horses and whether the transmission occurs primarily through body language. Conducted across five equestrian facilities, the study employed a within-subjects design, assessing 33 horse-human interactions. Participants were classified into high-anxiety (HA) and low-anxiety (LA) groups based on State Anxiety Scale scores and heart rate variability (HRV) measurements. Two interaction conditions were tested: Free-Style (FS), where participants moved naturally, and Constrained-Style (CS), where movement and expression were restricted. Horses heart rate variability and ethogram scores were recorded at baseline, during contact, and after recovery. Results indicated that horses exhibited significantly higher response in HRV and ethogram scores for HA-FS interactions compared to HA-CS (p < 0.05), suggesting an increased physiological and behavioral response when human emotions were freely expressed. However, interactions in the CS condition showed no significant HRV or behavioral differences between HA and LA groups, implying that constrained body language mitigates emotional contagion. These findings suggest that horses do not inherently detect human stress but rather respond to body language cues associated with anxiety. The study highlights the importance of structured handling techniques to minimize stress transfer, with implications for equestrian training and therapy. By adopting controlled, neutral body language, handlers can create a more stable environment, enhancing horse welfare and optimizing human-horse interactions. This research contributes to the broader understanding of interspecies emotional dynamics and the necessity of mindful equine management practices.

Abstract:

Nematophagous fungi, particularly Duddingtonia flagrans, provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical anthelmintics for controlling gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) in livestock. With the increasing prevalence of GIN resistance to anthelmintic drugs, alternative control strategies are essential for maintaining livestock health and productivity. Duddingtonia flagrans has demonstrated efficacy in reducing pasture contamination by trapping and eliminating nematode larvae in feces, thereby interrupting the reinfection cycle. This systematic review consolidates existing research on the biological control potential of D. flagrans, evaluating its efficacy across various livestock species, administration methods, and environmental conditions. While research highlights its ability to reduce nematode burdens, challenges persist in optimizing fungal formulation, improving field efficacy, and assessing economic feasibility. The review identifies critical research gaps, including the need for long-term field trials across diverse climatic conditions, development of bio-encapsulated formulations to enhance spore persistence, and economic assessments comparing the cost-effectiveness of D. flagrans to conventional dewormers. Additionally, integration with sustainable livestock management practices such as rotational grazing and selective breeding requires further exploration. Addressing these challenges through multi-disciplinary research will be crucial in scaling up the application of D. flagrans as a practical and farmer-friendly solution to GIN control. By synthesizing current literature using the Kitchenham framework, this study aims to inform best practices for integrating D. flagrans into sustainable parasite management programs, ensuring its long-term viability as a tool for livestock producers worldwide.

Abstract: The study explores the phenomenon of emotional contagion between horses and humans, an area of growing interest in equine research due to its implications for welfare, training, and therapy. By conducting a systematic review of existing literature, the research identifies and evaluates methodologies used to measure emotional transfer in horse-human interactions. The review includes behavioral assessments such as body language, facial expressions, and vocalizations, alongside physiological indicators like heart rate, heart rate variability, and cortisol levels. Findings indicate that body language is the most frequently utilized behavioral measure, while heart rate and heart rate variability dominate physiological assessments. The review highlights the advantages of combining behavioral and physiological approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of emotional states in horses. However, inconsistencies in methodological approaches and a lack of standardized evaluation frameworks pose challenges to advancing research in this field. The study concludes that interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and wearable devices, are crucial for enhancing the accuracy and reliability of emotional contagion assessments in equine science. These findings provide valuable insights that can inform evidence-based practices aimed at improving horse welfare and optimizing human-horse interactions.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa causes chronic infections in humans and animals, especially cats and dogs. This bacterium's ability to adapt and acquire antibiotic resistance traits may complicate and exacerbate antibacterial therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the antibiotic resistance patterns, virulence factors and ability to form biofilm of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from Algerian dogs and cats. Methods: Nineteen samples were collected from healthy and diseased dogs and cats. Isolates were studied for their antibiotic resistance patterns (disc diffusion method), biofilm formation (Microtiter assay) and were Whole genome sequenced (MinION). Results: Nineteen P. aeruginosa strains (15 from dogs and 4 from cats) were isolated. Antibiotic resistance phenotypes were observed against amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (100%), meanwhile resistance towards ticarcillin was 40% (dogs) and 25% (cats), ticarcillin-clavulanic acid was 13.33% and 25% for dogs and cats respectively and imipenem was 75% (cats) and 20% (dogs). 95% of strains were biofilm producers. Different antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) were found: beta-lactamase genes mainly PAO, OXA-494, OXA-50 and OXA-396, aminoglycosides gene (aph(3’)-IIb), fosA for fosfomycin and catB7 for phenicol. The main high risk STs were ST244, 2788, 388 and 1247. A large panel of virulence genes was detected: exoS, exoT, exoY, lasA, toxA, prpL, algD, rhIA and others. Conclusions: The genetic variety in antibiotic resistance genes of resistant and virulent P. aeruginosa strains in dogs makes public health protection difficult. Continuous monitoring and research in compliance with the One Health policy are needed to solve this problem.

Abstract: Background: The study of specific T-cell responses to vaccines against CSFV is important for understanding long-term immunity and infection management. The administration of a subunit vaccine against swine pathogens has been demonstrated to be safe and effective in infected pigs. However, subunit vaccines usually need an effective immunomodulatory adjuvant to stimulate active immune responses. Objectives: CD86 plays a crucial role in the immune response by enhancing the ability of APCs to stimulate the maturation and activation of T lymphocytes. Therefore, CD86 may act as a potential molecular adjuvant due to its ability to increase cytokine expression, which is protective against T-cell activation in pathogens. Methods: In this study, the CD86 coding sequence was linked with the CSFV E2 antigen sequence and then expressed in CHO cells for production of the fusion protein as an E2-CD86 vaccine. Commercial pigs aged 5–6 weeks were randomized into four groups: those inoculated with E2, E2-CD86, commercial Bayovac® CSF-E2 vaccines and the saline group. All animals were boosted 2 weeks after primary vaccination. Results: After vaccination, we evaluated the humoral response and compared it with that of T cells with the aim of correlating both types of responses and increasing CSFV-specific E2 antibody detection. The results revealed that the percentages of CD3+CD4+/CD8+, CD4+IL2+, IFNγ+ and CD4+CD8+ (DP) T cells among the PBMC 14 days after primary vaccination were significantly greater in the E2-CD86 group than in the other groups. The ELISpot results revealed a significant increase in the number of E2-specific IFNγ+ cells on D21 after vaccination. Conclusions: These results suggest that CD86 may enhance cellular immunity by increasing the levels of IL-2 and IFNγ-positive cells. Therefore, CD86 can act as a potential immuno-modulatory adjuvant in the development of subunit vaccines because of its protective efficacy.

Abstract: Reduced efficacy of oral diuretics in the treatment of congestive heart failure (CHF) can be secondary to reduced enteral drug absorption. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of subcutaneous (SC) furosemide administration to control signs of refractory CHF in dogs and cats and to assess the feasibility of this route of administration. Clinical records of 13 dogs and 17 cats with a history of refractory CHF treated with subcutaneous (SC) furosemide were reviewed retrospectively. Administration of SC furosemide was offered as an alternative therapy when animals experienced unsatisfactory clinical response to oral diuretics despite multiple dose adjustments and when, for this reason, pet owners were considering euthanasia. A satisfactory control of the animal’s breathing rate and effort and overall pet owner’s satisfaction was observed in all cases. Following administration of SC furosemide, median survival time was 106 (95% CI: 22-154) days in dogs and 89 (95% CI: 35 to 749) days in cats. This study showed that furosemide administered subcutaneously appears to be an efficacious and feasible therapeutic option for providing control of signs of cardiac congestion in both dogs and cats with previous unsatisfactory response to oral diuresis.

Abstract:

Hip dysplasia (HD) is a prevalent disease in medium to large-breed dogs, characterized by joint laxity and degenerative joint changes. Early diagnosis of HD poses significant challenges, as radiographic imaging often identifies the disease only in advanced stages. Conversely, ultrasonography, a non-invasive and cost-effective imaging modality, offers the potential for earlier detection by evaluating the surrounding soft tissues and synovial changes. This study aimed to assess the relationship between the ventral hip ultrasonographic findings, and hip joint laxity evaluated through stress radiographs on 22 young Estrela Mountain dogs (n=44 hips) aged 4 to 8 months. Key ultrasound measurements included synovial fluid in the cranial femoral neck recess (CFNR) and capsular-synovial fold thickness (CFT). Radiographic laxity was estimated by measuring the distraction index (DI). The mean ± standard deviation of the CFNR area, CFT, and DI was 45.58±25.40 mm², 3.21±0.90 mm, and 0.40±0.10, respectively. The Pearson correlation coefficient was statistically significant between all these variables (P<0.05). The ventral ultrasonographic approach to hip joint revealed potential, considering the early diagnosis of HD in dogs, by showing relationships between changes in periarticular soft tissues and joint laxity. Further studies are needed to associate ultrasonographic findings with radiographic signs of HD and related clinical signs in dogs.

Abstract:

The effects of high-dose glucocorticoids on the gastrointestinal microbiota of healthy dogs are unknown. This study’s aim was to investigate the effects of immunosuppressive doses of prednisone on the fecal microbiota and the gastric and duodenal mucosal microbiota in healthy dogs. Twelve healthy adult dogs were enrolled into a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Dogs were evaluated on days 0, 14, and 28 following treatments with either prednisone (2 mg/kg/d) or placebo. Outcome measures included: 1) composition and abundance of the fecal microbiota (via high throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene and qPCR-based dysbiosis index [DI]) and 2) spatial distribution of the gastric and duodenal mucosal microbiota using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). No significant difference in alpha and beta diversity or amplicon sequence variants of the fecal microbiota was observed between treatment groups. Blautia spp. concentrations via qPCR were significantly decreased between prednisone group timepoints 2 and 3. Compared to placebo group dogs, prednisone group dogs showed significantly increased gastric mucosal helicobacters and increased mucosal associated total bacteria and Bacteroides in duodenal biopsies over the treatment period. Results indicate that immunosuppressive dosages of prednisone alter the mucosal microbiota of healthy dogs in a time-dependent manner which may disrupt mucosal homeostasis.

Abstract: Irrational use of antimicrobials in humans, livestock and poultry are often cited as the key drivers of accelerated emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in humans and animals. In Pakistan, the use of antimicrobials in livestock and poultry is not well-regulated owing to limited and/or ineffective implementation of existing legislations and lack of coordination amongst the key stakeholders. To gather data and information pertinent to the supply chain mapping and the usage of antibiotics in the livestock and poultry sectors of Pakistan, a national workshop among selected influential stakeholders was held in Islamabad, Pakistan during March 2020 to map the supply chain and usage of antibiotics in country. Participants from all relevant organizations identified the supply chain and discussed the status, challenges, and way forward to enhance data collection and monitoring of antimicrobials usage (AMU) in livestock and poultry sectors to contain emergence of AMR. The pre-workshop questionnaire was designed to gather relevant information on AMU and its distribution among diverse markets and users from the workshop participants, utilizing open-ended questions. A chart depicting the relative magnitude of an antimicrobial use (AMU) supply chain was constructed to illustrate the flow of antimicrobials from import and production to end-use at the farm level. This chart was shared with participants to gather their professional opinions and potential corrections. It also presented a list of agencies and their roles in regulating AMU, along with the types of AMU data available at each level. Specific recommendations were made at the end of the workshop to review and update legislation to cover the entire AMU supply chain, enhance regulations to restrict the use of antimicrobial growth promoters, build an integrated national AMU database system, and raise awareness about the responsible use of antimicrobials in the livestock and poultry sectors. It was concluded that the AMU supply chain in veterinary sector of Pakistan is fragmented and is co-regulated by various federal and provincial stakeholders. There are some drugs such as antibiotic growth promoters which are not regulated at all. The approach and findings from this study can serve as a model to validate the use and management of antibiotics in other similar countries currently grappling with serious antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crises.

Abstract: In foals, Rhodococcus equi infections are typically linked to a range of non-pulmonary conditions, with hemolytic anemia being an uncommon complication. The authors are aware of only one case report involving immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in foals infected with Rhodococcus equi, highlighting the need for further research. This report aims to describe the clinical presentation, progression, outcome, and pathological findings of 4-month-old Holstein foal with Rhodococcus equi infection concurrently with presummed immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. Due to severe sepsis and worsening clinical condition, the foal was euthanized and necropsy was performed.

Abstract: Remifentanil is routinely administered in human neurosurgery whilst its use in non-human primates is not described. Here we described a new remifentanil-propofol total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) for macaque neurosurgery and we compared it retrospectively to fentanyl-propofol anesthesia. Twelve anesthesias were performed (F=6; R=6). After premedication, anesthesia was induced with 3 mcg/kg fentanyl (F) or 3 mcg/kg remifentanil (R) intravenously (IV) and maintained through propofol and fentanyl [0.17 ± 0.01 mcg/kg/min after induction and 0.13 ± 0.01 mcg/kg/min during maintenance] or remifentanil [0.1 ± 0.02 mcg/kg/min after induction and 0.16 ± 0.05 mcg/kg/min during maintenance] constant-rate-infusion (CRI), respectively. Tracheal intubation in R was characterized by apnea, absence of laryngeal reaction, and cough compared to F. The mean propofol rate administered in F [0.3 ± 0.1 at start to 0.2± 0.1 mg/kg/min for maintenance] was significantly higher than in R [0.17 ± 0.1 at start to 0.16 ± 0.01 mg/kg/min for maintenance].The cardiovascular and respiratory parameters did not differ significantly between the two groups. Extubation time was shorter in R compared to F [8 (6– 10) and 18 (14– 22) minutes respectively]. Finally, the new remifentanil-propofol TIVA proved to be a beneficial refinement for macaque neurosurgery, providing smoother intubation, cardiovascular stability, lower propofol requirements and faster recovery.